Showtown Blackpool
Sarah Catherine Jones
Just next door to Blackpool Tower, Showtown Museum offers an immersive experience that captures the unique spirit of this famous town. Exhibitions change regularly, so you’ll be able to visit time and time again.
The family museum features six galleries in total; seaside holidays, magic, circus, shows, dance and illuminations. You’ll learn about the singers, dancers, magicians, musicians, clowns, comedians, entertainers, and acrobats who have all put Blackpool on the map, along with the people who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to raise the town’s profile.
There are a ton of activities to get stuck into here. You can enjoy guided tours, talks and films, as well as special family-friendly workshops in the run-up to Christmas. These tend to take place in Showtown’s contemporary learning space.
If you’re bringing little ones along, be sure to look out for SHOWTOTS baby and toddler sessions, where children between zero and four can have fun playing, creating and exploring together. These free sessions are in high demand, so make sure you book in advance online.
Older kids won’t feel shortchanged. They’ll have a chance to find new hobbies, test out their skills and master the art of performance; they can get on the dancefloor, learn to juggle, perform a Punch and Judy show, or design their very own Illumination.
But it’s not just about talent gone by. Blackpool Showtown is invested in future talent too. It’s been working with community arts organisation LeftCoast and local dance collective House of Wingz to collaborate with communities all over the world, creating new dances, ideas and moves. Inspired by the Get Dancing Movement and the novelty performances of yesteryears, Blackpool Showtown is fast becoming a hub for local artists looking to make an impact.
Whether you’re a budding performer or a showbiz enthusiast, there are plenty of ways to get involved and have fun.
Carers, under threes and Blackpool residents can visit this attraction for free.
