In short, yes, of course you can!

In fact, we recommend it as perhaps the best way to enjoy this world-famous light show!

Walking Blackpool Illuminations

The Illuminations started way back in 1879, now boasting more than 1 million lights, so they understandably attract a huge following. Many people try to explore the illuminations via car and find that the large volume of traffic creates huge delays, or depend on public transport only to find that buses and trams are extremely busy. As a result, finding a place to park your car and then walking the promenade is a fantastic way to see a lot more at your own pace.

Part of the magic of the Illuminations is to feel the cold night breeze on your face, and enjoy traditional seaside smells like candy floss, or fish and chips. Like any live event, being in the thick of the happy atmosphere creates easily the most memorable experience you can have.

Suggested Route

Even though you may not want to risk the busy trams, the few remaining illuminated trams are an essential part of the experience. Because of that, you may want to start your walk at the Pleasure Beach end of the promenade, as this is the place where the trams set off from.

Starting at South Shore allows you to head north up the length of the Illuminations, passing through the Pleasure Beach area and carrying on past the three iconic piers and, of course, the famous Blackpool Tower itself. This route keeps you near the trams, giving you the option of hitching a ride back to your starting point if you want (and if you can squeeze on!).

Walking With Children

One thing to bear in mind is that, whilst children love the Blackpool Illuminations, they most likely won’t be up to the almost 6-mile walk of the entire illuminated seafront! There’s a nice even path along the shore with a choice of upper and lower routes (letting you walk near the sea or above the cliff edge), but the sheer distance will be pretty difficult to tackle.

Because of that, you may want to divide the walk into sections and take a bit of time to enjoy the various shops and attractions along the route. You might even choose to come back a few times to make sure you take in every detail at your leisure.

If you’re planning on walking Blackpool Illuminations then we highly recommend bringing:

• Some robust walking footwear.
• Waterproof/warm clothing.
• Drinking water.
• A bit of pocket money (to enjoy the range of nibbles sold on the seafront!).
• Additional money for the return tram journey (singles are just under £3).

The 2019 Blackpool Illuminations run until November 30th. Don’t forget that if you’re coming to Blackpool this autumn to enjoy the definitive Illuminations experience there are plenty of shows and events to enjoy at The Grand Theatre. If you take a brief detour off the seafront between the Tower and Northern Victorian Pier, you may even spot us as you pass!