North Pier reaches about half a kilometre into the Irish Sea from Blackpool’s Promenade. Opened in 1863, it is the oldest and longest of the town’s three piers, with Victorian details, a theatre, an amusement arcade and a carousel. Walk out over the water for views back to the coastline, or pause at the pier-head bar and lounge. It is quieter than Blackpool’s other piers, so it suits a relaxed stroll as well as a family visit for traditional seaside amusements.
A Victorian pier by the Irish Sea
North Pier opened on 21 May 1863, after construction began the previous year. Designed by Victorian engineer Eugenius Birch, it was built as a promenade for wealthier visitors. Today it remains the oldest and longest of Blackpool’s three piers, extending about half a kilometre from the Promenade.
The pier is Grade II listed and retains details from its Victorian design. Its character is more restrained than the amusements associated with Blackpool’s other piers, and its quieter atmosphere gives you room to take in the structure and the coastline at an easy pace.
Theatre, carousel and pier-head details
At the end of the pier, the Joe Longthorne Theatre hosts live shows. The venue has also been described as the North Pier Theatre; check the current programme before planning a visit around a performance.
The Carousel Bar is another place to pause. Look for its wrought-iron canopy, a period detail at the pier-head. The pier also has an amusement arcade and a traditional Venetian carousel, alongside bars and cafes. A small train runs along the pier, giving you another way to travel between its entrance and the end.
A walk over the water
The walk gives you views of the sea and back towards Blackpool Beach and the Promenade. There are seats along the pier, so you can stop to watch the waves, the passing train or the activity on the coast. The open position can feel breezy, even on a bright day.
For sunset, the pier and nearby seafront can offer views across the water. Murmurations have been seen around sunset on Boxing Day, though this is not something to count on for every visit. After heavy rain, dramatic clouds and shifting light can add interest to the view.
North Pier makes a good starting point for exploring more of the Promenade. South of the pier, the Great Promenade Show is a sequence of outdoor art installations running from South Pier towards Blackpool Pleasure Beach. It is a separate stretch of the seafront, so allow extra time if you want to see both.
Perguntas frequentes
Is North Pier free to enter?
Yes. The pier has free admission.
How long is North Pier?
It extends about half a kilometre into the sea.
What can you do at North Pier?
Walk along the pier, visit the amusement arcade and carousel, ride the small train, or see a show at the Joe Longthorne Theatre.
When is a good time to visit North Pier?
Sunset is a good time for the views. Murmurations have also been seen around sunset on Boxing Day.
