Blackpool Pleasure Beach Rides: The Go-To Guide

Big One

Being a big fan of theme parks I thought we’d bring you the go-to guide to all the Blackpool Pleasure Beach rides situated at the Lancashire based theme park. 

Let’s dive right in then with the entire ride line-up as of January 2021 at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

Bear in mind Blackpool Pleasure Beach is known as the UK’s most ride intensive park so be prepared for one LONG list!

Big One

Big One BPB

The tallest coaster out of all the Blackpool Pleasure Beach rides.

The biggest and arguably the best rollercoaster at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

First constructed in 1994 and designed by Ron Toomer and manufactured by Arrow Dynamics Big One is currently the UK’s tallest coaster standing 235ft above Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

At the time of opening the ride was the tallest, fastest and steepest steel rollercoaster in the world!

The ride is set to be dethroned as the UK’s tallest rollercoaster if Project Exodus at Thorpe Park gets the green light to proceed. 

Big One reaches a max speed of 85 miles per hour and is quite a long ride clocking in at 3 minutes travelling across its 5,497 feet of track length.

ICON

ICON Ride Review

ICON is a Mack Rides coaster that opened to the public on 25th May, 2018.

It is the UK’s first double-launch rollercoaster as it launches guests at the same acceleration as a Formula One car. A second boost of speed then launch riders to heights of 88.5ft, with drops of up to 82ff.

ICON is set for a 2022 change with the addition of ENSŌ. In a first for Europe, ICON’s rear seats have been adapted so that riders can spin and twist freely during the ride’s existing thrilling duration.

ENSŌ is a sacred symbol in Zen Buddhism meaning circle. Get ready for a spin like no other aboard this unique UK coaster for the 2 minute ride duration across its 3,750 feet of track.

Grand National 

Grand National BPB

The Grand National is Europe’s only twin-track racing coaster utilising the wonder that is the Mobius loop.

Two racing trains leave the station at the same time and then race to finish line.

Designed by Charles Paige in 1935 this 6604 foot long wooden coaster (3302ft per track) takes riders up to a maximum height of 62ft reaching speeds of 45mph across its 3 minute duration.

Big Dipper

Big Dipper

Manufactured by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters Inc this world-famous classic wooden rollercoaster was constructed in 1923 with the track being extended in 1934.

Reaching a max speed of 56 kmph you’re on this wooden and rather bumpy thrill experience for a total of 3 minutes.

It’s a classic coaster!

Blackpool Pleasure Beach is very proud of preserving its history with both Grand National, Big Dipper and other coasters in the park benefitting from Grade II listed status.

Nickelodeon Streak

Nick Streak

Another wooden coaster at Blackpool Pleasure Beach as this ride was also designed by Charles Paige in 1933.

Between 1933-2010 the ride was simply known as Roller Coaster but after the introduction of Nickelodeon Land the coaster had a name change and a re-theme to match the area.

It’s currently the second tallest wooden coaster out of the four that reside at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

Blue Flyer

Blue Flyer

Another wooden coaster at the park that was designated as a Grade II listed building in April 2017.

This coaster was built in 1934 and believed to have been built by Charles Paige.

The ride was built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters.

Originally known as Zipper Dipper the ride was re-themed into Blue Flyer ready for the opening of Nickelodeon Land in May 2011.

Revolution

Revolution

Revolution was constructed in 1979 and consists of a giagantic loop that you tackle forwards as well as backwards!

Manufactured by Arrow Dynamics Revolution had a makeover in 2012 but still has one of the most intimidating ascensions up to a ride station in the country.

Scaffolding steps take you up and across a very disconcerting metal bride and ready to launch down into the loop from a height of 56 feet.

It’s a tummy turner that’s for sure especially backwards!

Infusion

Infusion Pleasure Beach

The one rollercoaster at the park that always gets me nervous out of all the Blackpool Pleasure Beach rides.

Constructed in 2007 and originally known as the Traumatizer at Southport Pleasure Beach Infusion is the world’s first looping coaster suspended over water.

Manufactured by Vekoma this little head rattler takes rides up to heights of 120 feet as you descend down into a whirlwind experience of loops and twists with nothing under your feet but the wind whistling past your ankles.

This five loop special reaches speeds of up to 85 kmph and lasts for approximately 98 seconds.

Ice Blast 

Ice Blast

20 storeys high this S&S Shot tower will have you reaching G forces of 4.5g and -1g!

Sit down, strap in and before you know it you’re catapulting into the air up the steel tower at speeds of 80mph.

The ride is sponsored by Tango Ice Blast and is named after the fact.

Originally constructed in 1997 this is one of the first rides you see when you enter the park but not too many people are brave enough to ride it first thing in the morning!

Avalanche 

Avalanche

This steel bobsled rollercoaster was designed by Mack in 1988.

The ride was officially opened in June 1988 by Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards and it was the first bobsled-type roller coaster in the UK.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach sponsored the British Bobsleigh team during the 1988 Winter Olympics and supported them by donating a portion of Avalanche ticket sales to the team.

Steeplechase

Steeplechase

This three tracked racing rollercoaster was custom designed by Arrow Dynamics.

Opened in 1977 the ride was officially opened by Grand National winner Red Rum whose hoof print can be seen near the ride’s exit.

It’s the only operating steeplechase roller coaster left in the world.

It’s a bumpy ride but it’s a classic!

Red Arrows Skyforce

 Red Arrows Sky Force Ride Announced for 2015 at Blackpool Pleasure Beach

This thrilling flat ride manufactured by Gerstlauer takes guests into the skies with a pair of wings as they control their own rotations.

The ride stands at 72 feet and replaced the former ‘Bling’ ride at the park which was a Zierer Star Shape that closed in 2011.

The Royal Air Force sponsored Skyforce ride opened in the 2015 season.

Valhalla

Valhalla

One of my personal favourites out of all the Blackpool Pleasure Beach rides.

Voted the best dark ride in the world (and not for the first time) in 2021 despite it being closed the entire season for refurbishment you know that Valhalla isn’t messing.

One dark ride that takes guests on a journey through the viking afterlife.

Costing £15 million and opening in June 200 Valhalla is one of the longest indoor dark rides in the world at a duration of just over six minutes.

Utilising special effects like fire, water and snow Valhalla is an immersive and incredible experience.

The ride is currently closed but aiming to reopen in summer 2022 after an extensive reimagining and refurbishment to make the ride sustainable moving forward.

2022 will be the year of Valhalla at the park but be warned, you’ll get absolutely soaked!

Wallace and Gromit Thrill-O-Matic

Wallace and Gromit Ride BPB

This fun indoor family ride takes guests on a journey through a Wallace and Gromit storyline.

Formerly the Gold Mine ride that opened in 1971 and closed in 2011 Wallace and Gromit was born out of a £5.25 million refurbishment and was opened in 2013.

The ride was designed in conjunction with Aardman Animations, the creators of Wallace and Gromit.

Guests climb into one of Wallace’s slippers and you’re taken on a 4 minute journey through various scenes of Wallace and Gromit films with a few small drops along the way.

Alice in Wonderland Ride

Alice in Wonderland Blackpool

Climb inside a Cheshire Cat as you explore the wonders of Wonderland in this Arrow Dynamics manufactured dark ride.

Join Alice on this fantasy ride which transports riders through the looking glass into Alice’s Wonderland. See all your favourite characters from Lewis Carroll’s story like the White Rabbit, the Queen of Hearts and more.

Take your place at the Mad Hatter’s tea party whilst you ride around in your very own Cheshire Cat carriage.

This ride has been operating at the park since April 1962.

Ghost Train

 

The term ‘Ghost Train’ wasn’t coined until this very ride arrived at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. 

Pleasure Beach is the home of the world’s first ever ghost train.

Opened in 1930 what started as a single deck pretzel ride underwent several refurbishments and was rebuilt and designed as an Art Deco double deck in 1936 by Joseph Emberton.

In 1957 it underwent another refurbishment by Jack Ratcliff where the ride moved location slightly to accomodate the parks now removed Wild Mouse coaster.

The castle theming that we see today including the large skeleton on the top was added in 1973.

The Flying Machines

Flying Machines Blackpool

First opened in 1904, Flying Machines is the oldest of all the Blackpool Pleasure Beach rides still in operation.

Sir Hiram Maxim’s Flying Machines is located at the entrance to the park this still in operation at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

Guests board rocket-themed vehicles attached to chains and swing outwards as they rotate.

Gallopers

Gallopers

All aboard the Gallopers!

Manufactured by UK company Savage this carousel is a family favourite, a timeless classic.

The Gallopers have been operating at the Pleasure Beach since 1979 but the ride actually began its life at Marine Lake Pleasure Beach back in 1919!

The River Caves

 

Explore the world inside the river caves. From the jungle to the tombs of the pharaoh’s this dark ride manufactured byLot Morgan opened in 1905 and was refurbished and partially altered in 1974 by Intamin.

Derby Racer

Derby Racer

Hold on tight as Derby Racer certainly isn’t messing around!

Consisting of a large dome and 56 horses an organ purchased from Antwerp, Belgium plays tunes as you gallop in rotation.

Alpine Rallye

Alpine Rallye

Not to be confused with it’s bigger brother Grand Prix this track ride built by Ihle was formerly known as Thor’e Turnpike.

Grand Prix

 

Operating since 1960 Grand Prix is a track ride built by Arrow Dynamics as a car follows a guide rail around a lengthy track.

The cars were once petrol powered but are now electric.

This self-drive over a multi level racecourse is a cool experience for drivers of all ages

Dodgems

Dodgems Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Classic dodgems at Blackpool Pleasure Beach built by Italian manufacturer I.E. Park.

Pleasure Beach Express

 

Hop on board the Pleasure Beach Express as you travel the entire park with some spectacular views.

Built in 1933 the Pleasure Beach Express main station was built in 1933 but was unfortunately destroyed by fire in 1934.

Redesigned by Joseph Emberton and built in 1935 it was replaced in 1970 by the current Victorian style building.

The perfect ride to jump on during those nice days and some of the interactions with the rides around you are breathtaking.

Eddie Stobart 

Eddie Stobart Pleasure Beach

Manufactured by Zamperla this convoy ride is sponsored by British logistics company, you guessed it, Eddie Stobart Limited.

Your kids will get to take a ride in their very own lorry, grab the wheel and get on trucking around this 200 metre HGV course.

Thompson Carousel 

Thompson Carousel

Operating since 1977 is the Thompson Carousel, named after the family who own Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

This junior carousel is built by H.P. Jackson.

Impossible 

Impossible Pleasure Beach

This walkthrough attraction allows you to enter the exploratorium where nothing is impossible!

With numerous hands-on interactive features and optical illusions it’s a very unique attraction and with the haunted swing finale it’s always worth a visit.

Chinese Puzzle Maze

 

This free to explore Chinese puzzle maze opened in 1997 and is located under the Steeplechase ride.

With numerous bits of Chinese theming within it’s great to explore and is even converted into a scare maze for the parks Journey to Hell Halloween event.

Backyardigans Pirate Treasure

Backyardigans Pirate Treasure

Operating since 1999 this Mack Rides Sea Storm ride was once known as Bradley Beaver’s Pirate Ship Ride before being rebranded to The Backyardigans Pirate Treasure ride in 2011.

Nickelodeon Land is certainly the most fun collection of all the Blackpool Pleasure Beach rides. Let’s take a look at a few more of them shall we?

Fairy World Taxi Spin

Fairy World Taxi Spin

This Zamperla Aero Top Jet ride was opened in 2011. It’s a ride similar to Dumbo’s Flying Adventure at Disneyland but instead of flying elephants you have flying taxis!

It seems that dizzy duo, Cosmo and Wanda, are breaking “Da Rules” again, spiriting you off to their forbidden magical realm. As you careen in circles around a giant star that glitters with magic sparkles, you’ll soar through their fairly odd world.

SpongeBob’s Splash Bash

Spongebob's Splash Bash

Those jellyfish have taken over Bikini Bottom and now they just want to party!

You’re caught in the ocean currents beneath a swarm of the pink, tentacled pests as you twist and splash. SpongeBob wields his trusty net as he leads your jelly fishing expedition astride a grinning seahorse.

Blast the hovering jelly fish and other guests with on-board water cannons. Naturally, Patrick and several other buddies are in on the jellyfishing fun, whirling madly around you.

After your Jellyfish Jam, the watery mayhem continues as you drench other riders with off-board water blasters hidden in the surrounding coral.

Rugrats Lost River

Rugrats Lost River

Operating since 1992 this self-built log flume was rebranded to Rugrats Lost River during the opening of Nickelodeon Land.

The log flume is famous with enthusiasts during event days as grown adults climb aboard this kids ride and try to submerge the logs under water after the drop.

Be warned, adult or not, you’re going to get wet!

Krusty Krab Order Up 

Krusty Krab Order Up

Krusty Krab Order Up is a Junior Drop Tower built by Italian manufacturer Moser Rides and has been operating at the park since 2003.

Dora’s World Voyage

Dora's World Voyage Pleasure Beach

Operating since 2011 this Scenic Boat Ride was built by UK manufacturer W.G.H. Transportation Engineering.

The ride takes inspiration from Disney’s It’s A Small World.

Diego’s Rainforest Rescue

Rainforest Pleasure Beach

Inspired by the “Go, Diego, Go!” animated series, Diego’s Rainforest Rescue is a balloon ride similar to Peppa’s Big Balloon ride at Paultons Park’s Peppa Pig World. 

Manufactured by Zamperla this ride opened in 2011.

Wonder Pets Big Circus Bounce

Wonder Pets Big Circus Bounce

Wonder Pets Big Circus Bounce is a Jump Around built by Italian manufacturer Zamperla and has been operating at the park since 2011.

Avatar Airbender 

Avatar Airbender

Avatar Airbender is a Disk’O built by Italian manufacturer Zamperla and has been operating since 2011.

Bikini Bottom Bus Tour

Bikini Bottom Bus Tour

This Junior Flying Carpet Zamperla ride consists of a gondola attached to two arms that rotate during its cycle.

The ride has been in operation since May 2011.

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