Blackpool Tower Photo Gallery

When the Eiffel Tower opened in 1889, its success inspired others to think whether they should do the same with their cities. This was ironic given at the time, people thought buildings made of brick and stone showed beauty, and not iron and steel. A syndicate of London and Manchester "gentlemen" became interested in building a similar tower, although initially it was destined for the Isle of Man, but the government there refused permission and the project landed in Blackpool, a growing ambitious town. Construction began in 1891 with much fanfare. There was a grand procession leading to the ceremony that laid the foundation stone. Blackpool Tower opened 3 years later. For 6 pence admission, visitors can visit an aquarium/zoo, and if they pay 6 pence more, can see a circus show. A further 6 pence, and they will reach the top. The city council purchased the 158m-tall tower in 2010 and Merlin took over operations of the site. With my 15 pound admission ticket, I first saw a 4D film about the tower's history, which was pretty well done but with a very corny ending, then into the lift for the ride up to the indoor observation deck. You can easily see the city's 3 piers with Central and South in view here. In the distance is Pleasure Beach, an American-style theme park with over 125 years of history. In 1896, William Bean and his partner John Outhwaite purchased land that would become this theme park. Walt Disney even visited and gave permission for a ride inspired by Alice in Wonderland. The Winter Gardens opened in 1878 and saw a number of entertainment venues added and deleted over the decades from a skating rink, ferris wheel, opera house, ballroom, and more. There is also a glass floor to test your courage. Besides the indoor observation deck, there is a staircase up to the outdoor section, although it's more to admire the architecture since the views are blocked by netting.