Description
Stanley Park is a world-class green space that offers families a massive variety of outdoor fun in the heart of the seaside town. As one of the best things to do with kids in Blackpool, this public park and recreation ground features award-winning gardens, historical architecture, and a dedicated play area for all ages. Spanning 390 acres, it is a landmark destination for local residents and visitors looking for a break from the busy promenade.
Entry to the park is completely free, allowing families to explore the grounds and gardens without spending a penny. While access is free, small charges apply for specific attractions like the boating lake, adventure golf, and the miniature train. Most pay-to-play activities start from just a few pounds, making it a budget-friendly alternative to the town’s major theme parks.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines nature, sport, and relaxation, Stanley Park is the top choice in the region. It provides a perfect environment for an educational day out at the bandstand or a high-energy afternoon at the skate park.
Features
- Free
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
What makes Stanley Park unique?
Stanley Park is unique because of its Grade II listed status and its design by the famous landscape architect Thomas Mawson. It blends formal Italian gardens with wild woodland and a huge boating lake, offering a different experience in every corner. The site is a hub for sensory play in the rose gardens and features interactive exhibits of historical architecture like the Art Deco cafe and the grand bandstand.
- Award-Winning Heritage: It has repeatedly won the "Best Park in the UK" award for its maintenance and historical beauty.
- Sporting Hub: The park houses a major sports centre, athletics track, and multi-use games area for active families.
- Diverse Ecosystems: Children can move from formal manicured gardens to natural wetlands and forest trails in minutes.
Top 5 Highlights
- The Boating Lake: A massive 30-acre lake where families can rent motorboats, rowing boats, or pedaloes for a scenic trip on the water.
- The Children’s Play Area: A large, modern playground with zones for both toddlers and older children to burn off energy.
- The Miniature Railway: A fan-favourite train ride that takes visitors through a scenic section of the park’s woodland.
- Italian Gardens: A beautifully symmetric garden featuring fountains and statues, perfect for a peaceful walk or family photos.
- The Bandstand: A historic outdoor stage that frequently hosts live music and events during the summer months.
Stanley Park offers an extensive list of attractions for a full day of exploration:
- Italian Gardens (Formal historic gardens).
- Boating Lake (With boat hire available).
- Blackpool Model Village (Located within the park boundaries).
- Children's Playground (Fenced area for safety).
- Adventure Golf (Themed 18-hole course).
- Skate Park (Modern ramps for boards and bikes).
- Art Deco Café (Historic eatery with indoor/outdoor seating).
- Blackpool Sports Centre (Indoor climbing and sports halls).
- Cricket Ground (Home to local matches).
- Tennis Courts (Available for public hire).
Beyond the Main Attraction: Just across the road is Blackpool Zoo, making it easy to combine a morning at the park with an afternoon seeing exotic animals. The Marton Mere Local Nature Reserve is also nearby for families who want to spot local birdlife.
9.22 miles
