Formerly known as Blackpool Pleasure Beach, and situated in 42 acres, the park was founded in 1896 by Alderman William George Bean and had just one ride. His main goal was to have an American style amusement park to do with the basic principle “to adults and children again.” Since its inception it has remained a family run, with the last director Amanda Thompson who is also the Director of Stage Works Worldwide Productions who produce the shows in the park.
In September 2007, Pleasure Beach, Blackpool was seen as the joint fifth best amusement park in the world. Another feather in the cap of the parks, was named the second best marine park in the world. You can find Pleasure Beach is included as a playable scenario in the theme park game Rollercoaster Tycoon. It is the highest ranked European park.
Pleasure Beach, Blackpool attracts about 6 million visitors per year, together with Universal Studios, Orlando, Florida, also attracts 6 million visitors per year. Only 10 parks around the world beat this figure rise. 6,000,000 being approximately 1/10th the population of the United Kingdom.
Pleasure Beach, Blackpool is a mix of traditional wooden rides, modern steel roller coasters and small family rides. It also has very advanced thrill rides, along with the classic, older drives still in their original condition. The older attractions have been around for generations. Other major attractions include shows and productions that are suitable for the whole family. The park also has ice shows the Eclipse and Hot Ice Arena hosted at the Pleasure Beach to take.