Blackpool Beach and Its Three Piers: North, Central and South

North, Central and South piers are three landmarks along Blackpool’s seafront, arranged from north to south. Their locations make them useful points for planning a promenade walk or choosing which stretch of beach to spend time beside.

North Pier begins on the Promenade opposite Talbot Square, where a tram stop is directly outside the pier. Central Pier is at Promenade, Blackpool, FY1 5BB, and South Pier at Promenade, Blackpool, FY4 1BB.

For a closer look at the shore between the piers, compare the different stretches in this guide to Blackpool’s North, Central and South beaches. The piers opened in sequence: North Pier in 1863, Central Pier in 1868 and South Pier in 1893.

Blackpool Transport says its trams have level boarding at every stop and are accessible to wheelchair users and pushchairs, with two designated wheelchair bays on each tram. Opening times and access arrangements can vary, so check the official site before you go.

North Pier is the longest of Blackpool’s three piers and begins opposite Talbot Square. At 1,650 feet (500 metres), it extends along the northern seafront from the Promenade.

The pier was initially intended for “genteel relaxation,” in contrast to Central Pier’s entertainment focus. North Pier is free to enter and walk along on most days, though controlled admission charges may apply on some major event days, including the Blackpool Air Show and fireworks events.

Opening hours vary by venue, season and event. North Pier has visitor toilets, but outside paid-entry events, a small charge may apply if you enter from the Promenade only to use the facilities. Access arrangements also vary by venue and performance; contact the pier team about access needs before travelling.

Central Pier puts rides and entertainment together on the seafront near Blackpool town centre. Its attractions include a big wheel, amusement arcades, rides, bars and a family bar at the end of the pier.

Central Pier was oriented toward entertainment, including dance halls, roller skating, fairground rides and amusement arcades. The pier operates on a walk-in basis, and facilities include disabled access and toilets. Shows and rides cost extra, even though entry to the piers is free.

If you are planning a fuller day on the south seafront as well as a pier visit, this one-day Blackpool itinerary from the South Seafront connects the area with other stops.

South Pier is Blackpool’s smallest pier, on the southern seafront near Pleasure Beach. It shares that stretch of seafront with a bed and breakfast in Blackpool’s south side.

The pier’s attractions include rides, the Adrenaline Zone and the Beachcomber Amusement Arcade. That makes it the most ride-focused choice among the three, while Central Pier combines rides with its big wheel, bars and arcades, and North Pier offers the longest walk along the pier.

Entry is free, but rides and shows are chargeable. Check the official site before you go for current opening information, as hours and access arrangements can vary.

Which Blackpool pier is the longest?

North Pier is the longest, measuring 1,650 feet (500 metres).

Do you have to pay to enter Blackpool’s piers?

Entry to all three piers is free, while rides and shows are chargeable. North Pier may have controlled admission charges on some major event days.

Which pier has the big wheel?

Central Pier has a big wheel, along with amusement arcades, rides and bars.

Are Blackpool’s trams accessible?

Blackpool Transport says its trams have level boarding at every stop and are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. Each tram has two designated wheelchair bays.