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Daily Record
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Travellers enjoy award-winning holidays across Britain from £40pp including 'mystery breaks'
Caledonian Travel has destinations spanning the UK, Ireland and Europe. Whether travellers are dreaming of a peaceful coastal retreat, a city escape, or an event-filled adventure, there's no shortage of great travel experiences waiting to be discovered. Now Caledonian Travel is offering destinations spanning the UK, Ireland and Europe, and options that range from cultural city breaks and family fun to top theatre shows and sporting events, there's something for every kind of traveller. From deposits starting at a low price of £40 per person with 1000s of breaks under £100, travellers can take trips from departure points across East and West Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. The list of trips includes Coach Holidays and Coach Tours to Blackpool, with prices beginning at £229 for five days throughout July. While in Blackpool, one of the UK's most popular seaside resorts, those on the trip can see a number of highlights, including Blackpool Pleasure Beach, the Blackpool Tower, Blackpool Beach, the zoo, and Madame Tussauds. Another option is a trip to Loch Lomond which is located in central Scotland and is said to be well-situated for exploring the Trossachs National Park. Travellers can grab a three day stay for £119 which is home to many picturesque towns, villages, historic castles, lochs and viewpoints. For a family friendly trip, there is also the option of LEGOLAND Windsor Resort from £149 for a two day stay or £229 for three days. The park is set over 150 acres of land and offers twelve themed lands along with over 55 interactive rides, live shows and attractions. For Harry Potter fans, they can get the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter for £179.10 for two days. This tour will give shoppers the chance to explore the sets used in the films, stepping into the Great Hall, Forbidden Forest and Diagon Alley. They will also be able to marvel at iconic props, including Harry's glasses and wand, Hermoine's time-turner and the Golden Snitch. If this isn't what shoppers are after, they could try other platforms such as which offers staycations at locations like Brighton. There are deals for the Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront for £140 for one night and travellers will have access to the seafront, swimming pools and parking. Another option is on staycationholidays where there are options of larger spaces such as Semer Barns in the Rural Suffolk, which sleeps 13 people for between £2,477 and £4,241, has eight bedrooms, two private patios and an outdoor heated pool. However, Caledonian Travel has received a 4.6 out of 5 5-star rating from more than 27,000 reviews on Trustpilot. One person said: "Booking was fast and easy." "Brilliant day trip with a Loch Lomond Cruise and Afternoon Tea at Arrochar!" said another traveller. Not everyone enjoyed their experience with the brand, however. One person wrote: "The booking experience wasn't very good." But another customer said: "Found what I wanted and booking completed with ease."
Edinburgh Live
13-07-2025
- Edinburgh Live
Scottish couple say 'it's not how it used to be' after holidaying in Blackpool
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Before the rise of affordable package holidays and overseas travel, seaside towns like Blackpool were the go-to holiday destinations for plenty of Scottish families. The coastal spot was all the rage in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, witnessing significant growth. The 1800s saw the construction of iconic landmarks such as Blackpool Tower, the Pleasure Beach, Winter Gardens and all three famous piers. Blackpool was particularly favoured by the working classes of the North, who enjoyed the health benefits of sea bathing and fresh air, a stark contrast to the smog-filled, industrial landscapes of Manchester. In 1801, Blackpool had a mere population of 473. However, by the 1890s, the town housed 35,000 residents and welcomed an impressive quarter of a million holidaymakers annually, according to Lancs Live. Two of the town's most iconic hotels were built in the latter half of the 19th century - the Grand Metropole in 1873, an extension of a hotel first opened in 1785, and the Imperial Hotel erected in 1867, reports the Manchester Evening News. However, Blackpool's golden era was not to last. Despite its decline, Blackpool continues to draw hundreds of thousands of tourists, many of whom have been visiting since their childhood. But now, some holidaymakers say they've had enough of the Lancashire town. One couple from Manchester, seasoned holidaymakers to Blackpool who wished to remain anonymous, expressed their disappointment with the seaside spot. "It's not what it used to be," they lamented. "It's worse than it was before, a lot worse. It's all alkies and druggies now." 'The hotels have gone to hell'. June and Tony from Waterfoot near Rawtenstall, frequent visitors to Blackpool, have observed the resort's decline. "It's really handy for us and it's a friendly place but we have seen a decline," June commented. "It's very, very sad. My heart goes out to Blackpool." Tony remarked: "It's a real shame. The hotels on the Prom have gone to hell." 'We won't come again'. Mr and Mrs Jones from Gloucestershire, who have been visiting Blackpool since 1980, have decided they will not return following their latest visit. During their stay this week, the couple expressed their disappointment. "We've come twice in a year at times," Mrs Jones said. "But it's gone downhill. It's nowhere near as nice as it used to be. "After not coming for about four years, we've noticed it's deteriorated from up 'here' to down 'there'. I've told [my husband] 'we won't come again'." She continued: "We went to Skegness a few years ago and that's just as bad." Blackpool remains one of England's most deprived areas according to government statistics, which take into account income, employment, education, health, crime, housing access, and living conditions among 317 Local Authority regions. The Office for National Statistics has released figures showing that last year, 28 per cent of the population in Blackpool fell into the 'economically inactive' category, not employed nor actively seeking work. Yet, the charm of this coastal town hasn't faded for everyone. Take Ann and Richard Kelly from Durham, for whom Blackpool still holds magic. "I used to work at the Norbreck Hotel. It was a beautiful hotel back in the day," reminisced Ann. The couple's connection with Blackpool runs deep. "We've been to Blackpool dozens of times and used to bring our kids here when they were growing up. Now we bring our grandkids." Despite their fondness, the rising costs don't go unnoticed. Ann expressed her shock: "But everything costs so much more these days. I was stunned when I saw how much it costs to go to the Pleasure Beach. Blackpool always used to be packed but now when we come here we go 'where is everybody?'." A hush has replaced the buzz she remembers. "It's just so quiet. I've never known it be so quiet. It's completely different to when I used to work here 50 years ago. It's just not the same anymore." Times have certainly shifted, a sentiment echoed by other visitors like Elizabeth and Alex Foulds from Paisley, Scotland. "It's not how it used to be," lamented Elizabeth. "I've been coming here since I was a bairn and it holds such happy memories for me but it's sad to see how things are now." Acknowledging the need for improvement, Blackpool Council is forging ahead with ambitious plans to revitalise the town. Despite a setback with the £300m Blackpool Central Scheme, following the developer's collapse, plans are still moving forward. Demolition work on the old Bonny Street police station begins this week, aiming to attract new investment. The project's vision remains to significantly boost Blackpool's £1.98bn tourism industry, which currently employs over 22,000 locals. Councillor Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, stressed the project's significance: "Blackpool Central sits right at the heart of our plans to make Blackpool better for everybody. "I believe that this is one of the most exciting leisure development opportunities in the country. "I look forward to finding a company that shares our vision for a world-class leisure development which creates jobs for our local people, extends our tourism season and supports our local economy to grow."
Daily Mirror
25-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
Charming UK town with thriving high-street is just 3.5-miles from Blackpool
Overshadowed by the dazzling lights of Blackpool's infamous coastline, this quaint town feels like you've taken a step back in time - but still boasts all your modern day conveniences Escape the bustling crowds of tourists in this idyllic town that perfectly blends its rich history with modern convenience. In 2023, a whopping 21.5 million tourists flocked to the Blackpool, an iconic seaside town famed for its golden sandy beaches, thrilling Pleasure Beach rides, and the soaring landmark Blackpool Tower. The influx marks a six per cent spike compared to the year before, despite heavy criticism the town is falling into disrepair. Here, you'll find endless rows of flashing arcades, award-winning fish and chip shops - and nightclubs that stay open until the sunrise. However, if you're looking for something a little more relaxing - you simply have to check out Poulton-le-Flyde. Located just 3.5 miles from Blackpool, this sleepy market town has somehow managed to dodge the tourist spotlight - despite its endless charm and picturesque streets. At first glance, Poulton looks like a scene from Bridgerton - with stunning churches, cobbled streets and a ubiquitous history. But, the town's compact centre is filled with boutique shops, an outdoor market, cosy coffee shops and creatives. Stopping by for a sweet treat at Three Little Piggies Bakery is a must, as well as buying eco-friendly candles and wax melts at The Wax House. "The historic church of St Chad's, surrounded by its famous crocuses, is a sight that has graced countless calendars," hails Great British Life. "And thanks to the RHS Gold Medal-winning Bloom in Poulton team, you don't have to wander far in the town without seeing a glorious floral display." Located just under 250 miles from Central London, driving to Poulton-le-Flyde takes around four hours and 35 minutes in the car. However, direct trains to Blackpool North can slash almost 90 minutes from the journey. From here, you can catch a five-minute train journey over to the town, or get an 11-minute taxi. If you're flexible with dates, you can grab single adult fares from Euston to Blackpool for just £56. Tickets from Blackpool to Poulton cost just £2.10. Accommodation in Poulton-le-Flyde is limited due to its small size, meaning you may have to stay in Blackpool itself - and venture over to the town as a day trip. This is a great way to keep the budget down, as Blackpool is home to a slew of cheap hotels and B&Bs. For example, a weekend's stay (Friday, July 4-6) at Cliffs Hotel - located 2.9 miles from Poulton - will set you back just £226. This is based on two adults sharing a Standard Double Room. If you want something a little more fancy, check out the Claremont Hotel. This all-inclusive resort is less than a 15-minute walk from Blackpool Tower, boasts sleek rooms, and stunning sea views. Staying here on the exact same nights costs £290. *Prices based on Trainline and listings at the time of writing.
BBC News
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Wurlitzer wizard marks 45 years on the pedals at Thursford
A organist is celebrating four decades behind the keys of a Wurlitzer organ at a popular Wolfe, from Norwich, has played the organ for 45 years at Thursford in Fakenham, Norfolk, home to the annual Christmas Spectacular."To be here for the 45th year is absolutely fantastic, and I am loving it more than ever," he is expected to perform at the venue later in the year as part of Thursford's Steam Gala Day. Mr Wolfe, who was born in Luton, was invited to play at Blackpool Tower at the age of 16, becoming one of the youngest musicians to perform at the iconic ballroom."I was very lucky to be in that position at such an early age, and it was a great experience being there for three years," he said. Wurlitzer organs were used in movie theatres to evoke atmosphere and provide a live soundtrack during the era of silent film. During a trip to the museum when he was 19 years old, Mr Wolfe asked John Cushing, the chief executive at Thursford at the time, if he could play the original that visit in 1981, Mr Wolfe has since returned every year to play two shows a day for theatre closed during the pandemic, which had an impact on Mr Wolfe's confidence."In the year we closed with lockdown, I did not think there would be a return, and I did not that I would come back to it," he said."I lost a lot of my self-confidence. I thought that is it, my career is over."But I did come back, and I am so pleased I did."The Thursford organ was built about 100 years ago and is one of two of its kind still played regularly in the Wolfe is expected to play three shows during the Thursford's Steam Gala Day on 6 July. Follow Norfolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
BBC News
04-06-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Blackpool Tower to be taken over by council's in-house tourism firm
Blackpool Tower is to be taken over by the local council's own tourism company. The attraction, which has been managed by Merlin Entertainments for 15 years, is set to be handed over to the authority's in-house Blackpool Tourism Ltd company on 1 Council leader Lynn Williams said it was an "exciting" new chapter and a "new era" for Blackpool's tourism Entertainments said it "fully supported" the move. Blackpool Tourism Ltd will also take over managing Madame Tussauds, alongside with the Sandcastle waterpark and the Showtown Museum. Maddam Tussauds, and The Dungeons, will be operated under franchise from Merlin. Williams said: "In 2010, Blackpool Council bought Blackpool Tower bringing it into public ownership for the first time to safeguard the future of our much loved iconic landmark whilst also transforming it into a tourist attraction fit for the 21st added in 2010 "we did not have the skills or knowledge within the town to redevelop the Tower into a modern attraction" and bringing Merlin Entertainments on board was "absolutely the right decision".Andy Turner, Merlin's regional director of Gateway Attractions, said: "We fully support the local authority's desire to see these attractions return to local management."Merlin added existing Merlin season passes and pre-bought tickets would be honoured. 'Replica Eiffel Tower' The Blackpool Tower Company was founded by London-based Standard Contract & Debenture Corporation in 1890, when it bought an aquarium on Central Promenade with the intention of building a replica Eiffel nearly £300,000 the 518 ft (158m) the tower opened on 14 May 1894. Its complex includes a circus whose ring is flooded for its finale, and the 120 ft (37m) by 10 ft (31m) ballroom with a sprung floor made of 30,600 separate planks of oak, mahogany and dancefloor, and the ballroom's famous 1935-built organ, feature prominently in the BBC show Strictly Come Dancing. Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.
