Central Pier

The Central Pier is Blackpool doing what Blackpool does best - all noise, lights, and unapologetic fun. Built in 1868, it stretches out over the Irish Sea with that Victorian iron framework that still feels proper impressive when you actually stand on it. Walk the length and you get fairground rides, amusement arcades, food stalls, and that particular smell of sea air mixed with fried food that either repels you or keeps you coming back.

Inside there's a theatre that hosts summer shows and live entertainment - the sort of thing that works brilliantly if you've got kids in tow and the weather's turned. The rides aren't world-class, but they're reliable fun. For adults without children, honestly, you can take it or leave it. A stroll down is free and takes maybe 20 minutes; if you want to ride anything or hit the arcades, budget accordingly.

It's the sort of place you experience rather than plan around. Most visitors heading to the holiday parks nearby - Haven Marton Mere is just 2.4 miles away, Newton Hall slightly further - will find themselves wandering down here at some point, particularly if rain's on the cards. It fits naturally into a Blackpool break rather than being a destination in itself. Go on a decent day and it's grand. Go when it's grey and windy, and you'll understand why the locals head to the parks instead.