Blackpool Tower

4:37pm Monday 12th May 2008

Blackpool Tower offers a more varied set of attractions than anywhere else I've visited.

There's the tower itself, and the equally-famous circus and ballroom that lie beneath.

Then there's the kids' play palace, the dinosaur ride and the aquarium.

All in all the place should keep people of all ages occupied for most of the day.

And unlike many attractions it's just as good in spring and autumn as it is in winter.

In fact it can be even better if you dare go to the top of the tower in wind or rain.

The tower will probably be the centrepiece of your visit, but go early to avoid the long queues.

There's not much by way of scenery around Blackpool, flat land and open seas, but the high view is still dizzying.

Not as dizzying, however, as standing on the scary glass Walk of Faith and looking straight down? feet.

There are more heart-stopping moments in the two-hour Tower Circus which is performed twice daily.

No animals in this show, but lots of comedy from clown Mooki and acrobatics from international performers.

Below the circus ring is an excellent aquarium that's as good as many stand-alone attractions.

An impressive collection of creatures surrounds a central vast tank, visible from all sides, containing all manner of exotic fish.

Two flagship attractions in the building will appeal mostly to the young and old -- Jungle Jim's and the Tower Ballroom.

The ballroom looks as gorgeous as ever, with organists playing the mighty Wurlitzer for most of each day.

You can either take to the floor with a partner, or relax with a drink watch -- there always seem to be couples who dance beautifully.

Parents can also sit back in Jungle Jim's -- take along a book or magazine because you're likely to be there a while.

This indoor play area is one of the best you'll find, especially since last winter's extensive refurbishment which has left it it bright, clean and modern.

Another attraction has been updated, and it was long overdue -- the prehistoric tunnel has now been retitled Jurassic Walk.

Last time you rode in jolting cars past a tacky collection of dinosaur models accompanied by cheesy commentary.

The dinos are still there, but now you walk past them after watching a short computer-generated movie.

This silly but rather entertaining 10-minute film sends you on a rollercoaster-like "journey" back to prehistoric times.

The tower's large restaurant has also been given a makeover, the cosy decor portraying a cartoon recreation of the metal legs of the tower.

There's an extra new performance each Friday in the circus ring, a Pirates of the Caribbean-style magic and illusion show performed on the deck of a floating galleon.

* Full review of the 2008 circus is elsewhere in the Days Out section of our website.

In short: fun for all the family.

Duration: most of the day.

Age suitability: all ages, from the youngest to the oldest.

Access: lifts to all floors of the building, and almost to the top of the tower, spiral stairs to the top deck.

Extras: shops, restaurant.

Open: 10am. Closes between 6pm and 11pm..

Prices: from May 24-June 1, £16.95 adults, £11.95 senior, £12.95 up to 16 years; families £42 (1 + 2), £56 (2 + 3). Cheaper before May 24; possibly different prices after June 1.

Getting there: in the centre of Blackpool on the seafront, train station 10 minutes away; bus/coach stations nearby.

Parking: car parks in the town.

Website: www.blackpooltower.co.uk Phone: 01253 622 242

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