It started with eight arc lamps on 1879, and this is what it looks like today. The lights are 12 and 24 volt which saves greatly on electricity consumption, and also makes them safer for Blackpool weather. The trams get a dose of lights too.
Above is a view of part of the lights, looking North towards the Tower.
You can walk the Promenade, drive by car (there is a charge for each car), travel by the bus that you rode in on, or take an open top tram ride along them There are six miles of lights, and walking the entire length is not recommended..
I got to see it as a kid, but my family preferred the South Coast, Brighton, Bournemouth, Weymouth as far as Torquay. I have also taken others to see it in latter years. Other seaside places have lights but not on this scale. It really is quite unique.. BUT..
Blackpool is Northern, crass, the land of candyfloss and home to the ‘Kiss Me Quick’ cowboy hats, It has always attracted types which may or may not be what you want your kids to see. It can be very busy, and queues and long waits are not uncommon. Blackpool is what it is, and you either love it or hate it. Probably the best time to do the lights is mid-week during early October.
Whatever, it is a British classic, and I have always believed that all kids should be allowed to see it all at least once in their lives
All about Blackpool Lights.. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blackpool_Illuminations
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