One of Blackpool’s top attractions is Stanley Park, which offers something for people of all ages to enjoy. No matter what time of the year you visit, you will find something to keep yourself entertained, and it is a fantastic place to take the children on weekends or holidays. Here are some things to do at Stanley Park, Blackpool, during your visit.
Enjoy a Boat Ride Across the Lake: One of the Best Things to Do at Stanley Park, Blackpool
One of the best things to do in Stanley Park is to take a boat ride across the large boating lake. There are rowing and pedal boats, so you can choose your preferred vessel for the ride. While sharing the lake with ducks, geese, and swans, you can sail across the water, enjoying the surrounding greenery and admiring the stone bridges.
Take a Walk Through Stanley Park
Stanley Park is one of the most popular spots in Blackpool amongst the locals for taking a walk, going for a run, or walking the dog. Each tree-lined, paved footpath takes you to the park’s different features. The paths are level and wide, so most of the park is accessible to people of all abilities.
Have Lunch at the Café
A highly rated café in the park overlooks the Italian ornamental gardens. It is an art deco-style building with the rather apt name of Park’s Art Deco Café. The menu includes breakfasts, sandwiches, light bites, traditional British main courses, and daily specials. A children’s menu is available for younger diners, and the café serves desserts and afternoon tea. The excellent food and pretty surroundings mean the cafe is worth considering if you are looking for places to eat in Blackpool.
Visit the Blackpool Model Village & Gardens
Although Blackpool Model Village & Gardens is part of Stanley Park, Blackpool, many consider it a separate attraction. The attraction boasts handcrafted models of houses and famous landmarks set in beautiful surroundings. Blackpool Model Village & Gardens has a gift shop that sells souvenirs, snacks, and drinks.
Play Golf at One of the Three Golfing Options
Regardless of your age or golfing ability, there are options for everyone who wants to play golf at Stanley Park. There is an 18-hole golf course along the park’s edge for serious golf enthusiasts, although non-members should book in advance. For a shorter game of golf, there is a mini golf course opposite the rose garden and overlooking the lake. Those who want family fun with younger children might like to play crazy golf. The crazy golf course is in a wooded area next to the boathouse by the boating lake.
Take the Kids to the Playgrounds in Stanley Park
Stanley Park boasts two large playgrounds. The first is a traditional children’s playground for children between two and eight. It has colourful slides, swings, see-saws, rocking horses, climbing frames, and roundabouts. The second is a timber and rope adventure playground for children and teens aged eight to 14.
NB: There are no photographs of the playground or trampoline area, as children have always used them during my visits.
Ride the Miniature Train
If you visit the park with younger children, a fun way to get around the park is on the miniature train. The collection points are by the boating lake and by the playground, so you can use the train to get from one to the other. Alternatively, you can stay on the train in both directions and enjoy the ride.
Play or Watch Sports at Stanley Park’s Sports Facilities
Planners designed Stanley Park so there are various sports activities people can enjoy at the venue. A sports hall hosts various events, clubs, and activities, and there is an athletics area with pitches and several multipurpose, all-weather sports pitches. Furthermore, there is a skate park and a BMX track.
Admire the Gardens at Stanley Park, Blackpool
Dotted around Stanley Park are various themed gardens set amongst the wooded and lawned areas. These include the Italian ornamental garden and the rose garden. It means there are attractive sights as you stroll through Blackpool’s best park.
Try Bowling
Stanley Park has greens for crown and flat bowling, which are home to the local bowling club. The bowling greens are between the park’s entrance and the café.
Stanley Park is one of the best attractions in Blackpool and one of the best parks in Lancashire. along with Williamson Park in Lancaster. There are many things to do at Stanley Park, Blackpool, to suit people of all ages and any time of the year.
All images: Liz Flynn
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