There are plenty of wonderful beaches and attractions along the Merseyside coast to enjoy on a sunny day, or school holiday, but for Liverpudlians of a certain vintage the lure of Blackpool made for an extra special day out.
Many of us will be able to remember looking across the bay to see the Blackpool Tower and thinking we’d be there in minutes, only to still be in the car an hour and half later, wondering how the journey can possible take so long.
Once there, a walk on the pier, a stick of rock and a play on the beach were always big part of the day trip, but for most of us Blackpool Pleasure Beach was the main attraction.
We’ve delved into our archives to bring you some photos sure to take you back in time. How many of these old rides can you remember? Enjoy your trip down memory lane!

1. A welcome sight
After a long drive, the illuminations start here. | Getty Images Photo: Fox Photos/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

2. Pretty as a picture
Floral displays for the illuminations in 1986 Photo: National World

3. The Windmill
Visitors admiring the windmill, one of the illuminations at Blackpool. | Getty Images Photo: Fox Photos/Getty Images

4. The promenade
Blackpool illuminations. | Getty Images Photo: Central Press/Getty Images
