Despite taking a real dip in tourism during the 1970’s, Blackpool in the 80s was certainly on the up.

Many new attractions opened for the whole family to enjoy; a move which had carried on from the 70s. With a new lease of life for a new generation, Blackpool was starting to bring back a great deal of excitement for the British holidaymaker.

So, what were the main events which occurred during the 1980’s in Lancashire’s popular seaside town?

Blackpool in the 80s – Sandcastle Water Park

Blackpool opened a brand-new water park in 1986, which was nothing the seaside town had seen the likes of before. With an impressive 84-degree tropical climate, this indoor waterpark became a huge hit with families from across the country. Nowadays, it is home to a vast selection of daring slides – 18 to be exact. Inclusive of that number, is the world’s longest indoor rollercoaster waterslide and the very first indoor drop slide.

Blackpool in the 80’s – A UFO spotting

Central Pier gained a great deal of fame and attention during the 1980’s when unearthly sightings were discovered overhead. On 24^th February 1979, a security guard claimed to have spotted a UFO whilst on duty. According to the individual, he heard a loud roaring sound; followed by a flash of orange light in the sky. Although the ministry of defense was notified about the event, it was decided that no further action was necessary.

Blackpool in the 80s – The Grand Theatre

The Grand Theatre had been used as a Bingo Hall for three years, but in the year of 1980, a deal between Friends of the Grand and the EMI to buy the venue back. In 1981, the Grand was reopened with a performance of William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice.

Blackpool in the 80s – End of an era for ‘Funhouse’

The Funhouse had been a part of Blackpool’s legacy since the 1930’s which was the design of architect Joseph Emberton. Emberton aimed to completely revamp the appearance of the central pier where the Funhouse stood. His architectural excellence can largely still be seen today.

The Funhouse was the ultimate go-to for kids during the 1980’s, with its moving staircases, fast spinning wheel and daring slide. What 80’s kids didn’t know however, is that their beloved amusement would be tragically lost in a colossal fire. In 1991, a passer-by heard a huge bang and gigantic flames peeping from the Funhouse’s roof. The only object to survive was the Laughing Clown which had been an attraction of the Pleasure Beach since 1935.

Blackpool in the 80s – The opening of a new shopping centre

During the 80s, the seaside town opened a brand-new shopping centre at the heart of the town. Situated directly next to the iconic Blackpool tower, the Houndshill Shopping Centre was the perfect past-time for those hoping to indulge in some retail therapy.

Blackpool in the 80s – Blackpool Aerodrome

Blackpool Aerodrome was initially in use back in 1909. However, at the offset of the first world war; flying did not resume until the 1930s. Over the years, the airport continued to grow; especially during the 1980’s. The number of take-offs increased and passenger numbers sky-rocketed. During the decade, the firm Cosmos holidays also set up a new scheme known as ‘Landladies’ Specials’. This appealing new business idea offered appealing package holiday deals from Blackpool to the much more glamorous, Mediterranean.

Blackpool in the 80s – The redevelopment of the North Pier

Due to the rise and fall of decline of British seaside resorts during the 70’s and 80’s, there was a certain pressure for new tourist-related developments to take place. The North Pier underwent a major redevelopment at a cost of £350,000. The entrance was built with a Victorian style structure and the pier was no longer required for nautical use.

Discover More

Blackpool in the 1950s

Blackpool in the 1960s

Blackpool in the 1970s

Blackpool in the 1980s

Blackpool in the 1990s