Author: Ed

The Backlot Cinema and Diner

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The Backlot Cinema & Diner officially opened on 22nd March. Situated in the Houndshill Shopping Centre, it features a state-of-the-art entertainment complex, boasting Blackpool’s only IMAX screen. This screen, one of the largest in the North West at 10.85 meters high and 19.87 meters wide, uses IMAX with Laser technology to deliver a high-quality, immersive cinematic experience. The cinema provides a diverse selection of films, ranging from the latest Hollywood releases to arthouse titles and special event screenings. In addition to movies, the venue hosts a variety of events, including corporate conferences, birthday parties, comedy nights, and live gaming tournaments…. Read more »

Blackpool Central Library

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Central Library is a notable public library located in a historic building that also houses the Grundy Art Gallery. The building is Grade II listed, recognizing its historical significance. The site was chosen in 1908 on Queen Street, with funding from artists Cuthbert and John Grundy from Bury. Construction began in 1909 and was completed in 1911, with the design by the Scottish firm Cullen, Lochhead and Brown. After a major renovation costing £3 million, the library reopened on 26 September 2011, just in time to celebrate its 100th anniversary a month later. The building features an Edwardian Baroque style… Read more »

Empire, Hippodrome, ABC Theatre & Syndicate

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Empire and Hippodrome The site originally housed the Empire variety theatre and ballroom, designed by John Dent Harker, which opened its doors on 4 July 1895. ABC Theatre Associated British Cinemas (ABC) acquired the former Hippodrome Theatre during April 1929. Although plans to rebuild it were underway in 1939, these were interrupted by the outbreak of World War II. The theatre eventually closed in 1960, with most of the structure demolished to make way for the new ABC Theatre. The new venue, built within the remnants of the old building, featured stalls and circle seating for 1,934 guests along with… Read more »

Beach House Bistro Bar

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The Beach House Bistro Bar in Blackpool, located on the iconic promenade at Festival House, has become a beloved venue for both locals and tourists alike since it opened its doors in 2012. Its stylish yet relaxed atmosphere offers a perfect blend of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and a laid-back seaside vibe. The café is known for its modern design, which combines a chic bohemian flair with contemporary seaside elegance, creating a welcoming space where guests can enjoy delicious meals and drinks while taking in panoramic views of the Irish Sea. The menu at the Beach House is crafted by Executive Chef… Read more »

Fylde Rugby Club

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Fylde Rugby Union Club, operates from the Woodlands Memorial Ground on Blackpool Road in Ansdell. The first team competes in National League 2 North, which is the fourth tier of the English rugby union system, following their relegation from National League 1 at the conclusion of the 2017–18 season. The club also fields two additional senior teams: the Hawks and the Vandals, which compete in the English North West Leagues, specifically in the NW Premiership and NW3 North, respectively. Additionally, there is a thriving Mini Junior Section and a Colts team that participates in the Lancashire & Cheshire regional leagues. Fylde Rugby Club was established…

AFC Fylde at Mill Farm

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Mill Farm Sports Village, situated on the outskirts of Wesham in the Borough of Fylde, Lancashire, England, is a comprehensive multi-sport facility. It features the Mill Farm football stadium, which has been the home of AFC Fylde since 2016, along with several 3G football and hockey pitches. AFC Fylde initially announced plans to relocate from their former ground at Kellamergh Park in Warton to a new site on 19 January 2008. In February 2010, the club revealed plans for a new Community Sports Complex in Wrea Green. However, Fylde Council rejected the planning application in April 2012. On 3 September… Read more »

The Evening Gazette

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The Blackpool Gazette has a long and storied history, originally beginning as The West Lancashire Evening Gazette in 1929. Over time, the paper evolved, first shortening its name to the Evening Gazette, and eventually adopting the more recognisable Blackpool Gazette. However, its roots extend even further back to a weekly publication first established in 1873, reflecting a deep connection to the local community for over a century. The newspaper, which is now published by National World, is often referred to simply as The Gazette by locals. Vanessa Sims served as editor, leading the paper during an era where it not… Read more »

Lewis’s Department Store on the Prom

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Lewis’s used to have one of their many department stores on the promenade. Lewis’s was a chain of British department stores that operated from 1856 to 2010. The first store, which opened in Liverpool city centre, became the flagship of the chain of stores operating under the Lewis’s banner. The modern Blackpool branch stood next to Blackpool Tower and was opened in 1964 on the site of the old Alhambra. It closed in 1993 and the building was stripped back before being reclad in brick. This image is from an old amateur 35mm colour transparency from the 1960s.

Fylde Coast Radio Digital

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They pride themselves on being a “live” radio station, dedicated to keeping listeners informed about all the exciting events and developments in and around Blackpool and the Fylde Coast. Their playlist spans the ages, bringing listeners the best music from past decades to today’s latest chart toppers. To ensure listeners never miss out on local events, concerts, theatre shows, breaking news, traffic updates, travel information, and much more, the radio station encourage people to download their smartphone app, in effect putting the radio station right in people’s pockets. Long time residents or a first time visitors will find that Fylde Coast Radio… Read more »