Coronavirus: The Latest Travel Information
All of Blackpool that you know and love is back in business, including indoor and outdoor attractions, non-essential retail, show venues, hospitality and accommodation.
In line with the rest of the country, some restrictions have now been reinstated as part of the Government’s “Plan B” to curb transmission of COVID.
These are the new restrictions:
From 10 December, face coverings will be required by law in most indoor public places and on public transport, including taxis, unless exempt. This includes visitor attractions and entertainment venues (museums, galleries, cinemas, indoor theatres, concert halls, cultural and heritage sites, indoor areas at aquariums, zoos and visitor farms, bingo halls, snooker and pool halls, amusement arcades, adventure activity centres, indoor sports stadiums, funfairs, indoor theme parks, casinos, skating rinks, bowling alleys, indoor play areas including soft-play areas), and also in public areas in hotels.
From 15 December certain venues and events will be required by law to check that all visitors (aged 18 or over) are fully vaccinated.
The use of the NHS COVID Pass or an alternative proof of a negative test result is required as a condition of entry into the following places:
- nightclubs, dancehalls and discotheques;
- other late night dance venues. These are any other venues that are:
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open between 1am and 5am;
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serve alcohol during this time;
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have a dancefloor (or designated space for dancing); and
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provide music, whether live or recorded, for dancing.
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indoor events with 500 or more unseated attendees, where those attendees are likely to stand or move around for all or part of the event, such as music venues with standing audiences or large receptions;
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outdoor events with 4,000 or more unseated attendees, where those attendees are likely to stand or move around for all or part of the event, such as outdoor festivals; and
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any events with 10,000 or more attendees indoor or outdoor, such as large sports and music events
We politely ask that you follow the rules and guidelines governing hospitality venues, accommodation and attractions. For more information, you can find out what's open in Blackpool, holiday booking tips and things to do during your time in Blackpool.
Enjoy your time in Blackpool – there is a warm welcome awaiting.
Love, Blackpool x
Frequently asked questions
We understand you might have some questions about your upcoming trip, our scheduled events and whether you can travel here. Below, we've pulled together some frequently asked questions about the impact of coronavirus in Blackpool.
Is Blackpool open?
Yes, Blackpool's indoor and outdoor attractions, together with non-essential retail, show venues, hospitality and accommodation such as hotels, guesthouses and self-catering accommodation are open. To find out what’s open in Blackpool, please head here.
Can I travel to Blackpool?
Yes, there are there no domestic travel restrictions in place to prevent you coming to Blackpool. You can start to plan your trip using our Blackpool's Back Guide, which details opening times, booking details and holiday planning tips.
Can I stay over in Blackpool?
Yes, all our hotels, guesthouses and self-catering accommodation are open. The ‘rule of six’ in indoor settings has now come to an end under Step 4 of the Government’s road map. This means there are no restrictions on get-togethers indoors, allowing you to stay with friends and family once again.
We have a wide selection of quality establishments for you to choose from. Simply head to our Accommodation page to take a look.
When do I need to wear a face covering?
From 10 December, face coverings will be required by law in most indoor public places and on public transport, including taxis. This includes visitor attractions and entertainment venues (museums, galleries, cinemas, indoor theatres, concert halls, cultural and heritage sites, indoor areas at aquariums, zoos and visitor farms, bingo halls, snooker and pool halls, amusement arcades, adventure activity centres, indoor sports stadiums, funfairs, indoor theme parks, casinos, skating rinks, bowling alleys, indoor play areas including soft-play areas) and also in public areas inside hotels.
For more information on face coverings, please head to the Government website.
Do I need to wear a face covering on the trams and buses?
Yes, face coverings are required by law on all public transport which includes Blackpool Transport buses and trams, unless exempt. If a tram or bus is too busy and you do not feel comfortable boarding, don't hop on. The next tram or bus is only a few minutes away.
For more information, please head to Blackpool Transport’s website here.
Are Blackpool Illuminations on?
Yes, Blackpool Illuminations are shining every night until 3 January 2022.
I have a visitor query, who can I contact?
Our Tourist Information Centre is now open for any enquiries or visitor information. Head over to the Festival House located on the Promenade and say hello to our friendly team. Alternatively, you can contact the team on 01253 478222 or information@visitblackpool.com.
I love Blackpool – how do I support the town during this period of uncertainty?
We are always blown away by the love and support our visitors have shown the resort during these unprecedented times, whether it’s adhering to the latest Government restrictions and staying away during travel bans to supporting our amazing attractions and accommodation, entertainment venues and eateries when they reopen. It’s a rollercoaster we’re all on together.
There are many exciting ways you can support the nation’s favourite beach resort. Why not book your favourite upcoming show at Blackpool Grand Theatre, Winter Gardens, Funny Girls or VIVA Blackpool?
We can’t wait to see you soon!
How to avoid catching or spreading coronavirus
Do
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Wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds.
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Always wash your hands when you get home or into work.
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Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.
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Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze.
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Put used tissues in the bin straight away and wash your hands afterwards.
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Try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell.
Don't
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Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean.
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Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. You should use the NHS 111’s online coronavirus service if you need medical help. Call 111 if you need to speak to someone. Use this service if:
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You feel you cannot cope with your symptoms at home.
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Your condition gets worse.
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Your symptoms do not get better after 7 days.
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Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. Call 111 if you need to speak to someone.
More information is available on the NHS website. If you are a Blackpool resident and require more information, please head to Blackpool Council for regular updates on coronavirus.
📷 Credit: Gregg Wolstenholme photograph