Blackpool isn't just a summer seaside destination. During winter, families can enjoy indoor play centres, colourful attractions, Christmas lights, live shows and peaceful coastal walks. Whether you're planning a weekend visit, looking for rainy-day entertainment or organising activities during the Christmas and February half-term holidays, there are plenty of things to do in Blackpool with children when it's cold outside. From soft play at Jungle World Park Blackpool and discovering underwater creatures to exploring museums and enjoying the famous Illuminations, this guide covers 15 family-friendly winter activities for different ages, interests and budgets.

15 Best Things to Do in Blackpool in Winter With Kids

1. Enjoy Indoor Adventures at Jungle World Park Blackpool

When the winter weather turns wet, windy or cold, Jungle World Park Blackpool is a lovely place to begin your family day out.

Located inside Houndshill Shopping Centre on Victoria Street, this jungle-themed indoor play centre caters for children aged 0–12, providing separate spaces for toddlers and older children.

Children can enjoy:

• A large indoor jungle slide
• Multi-level climbing frames and obstacle areas
• A dedicated toddler soft play zone
• Trampolines and a mini zipline
• Interactive play equipment
• Age-appropriate climbing and movement activities

The centre also has a Tropical Tiki Café, where families can enjoy food and refreshments during their visit.

For younger children, Jungle Monsters sessions provide opportunities for play during term-time weekdays. Jungle Rebels sessions cater for children during weekends and school holidays.

The venue also offers disability-friendly sessions on Saturday mornings, with music switched off, lights on and quiet rooms available.

Best for: Toddlers, children aged 0–12, rainy days and families with siblings of different ages.

Planning tip: Check the Jungle World Blackpool play sessions before travelling. Children must wear socks, and long sleeves are recommended for the large slide. Book ahead during weekends and school holidays.

2. Discover Marine Life at SEA LIFE Blackpool

Location: Blackpool Promenade

If your children love animals, SEA LIFE Blackpool offers an indoor family activity that doesn't depend on the weather.

The aquarium features different marine habitats where children can observe sharks, rays, turtles and colourful fish.

Younger children may enjoy watching the animals swim, while older children can learn about marine habitats and ocean conservation.

Turn your visit into an underwater spotting game. Ask your children to look for a fish with stripes, a large shark or a creature hiding among the rocks.

The aquarium is particularly useful during cold and rainy afternoons because families can enjoy the displays indoors.

Best for: Toddlers, animal-loving children and families looking for educational indoor entertainment.

Planning tip: Check opening times and book tickets in advance. Special seasonal experiences may require separate bookings, and some exhibits may occasionally close for maintenance.

3. Step Into a Storybook at The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse

Location: Blackpool Promenade

The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse is a wonderful indoor attraction for younger children who enjoy familiar picture books.

Inspired by stories from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, the attraction brings favourite characters to life through themed play areas.

Children can discover imaginative spaces connected with The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom, Zog and other familiar stories.

The venue combines storytelling with movement, interactive activities and creative play.

Younger children may enjoy discovering the colourful surroundings, while older children can follow themed challenges and explore the different play zones.

Best for: Toddlers, preschoolers and younger primary-school children.

Planning tip: Admission is ticketed and uses timed sessions. Check the latest programme for special winter activities and choose a quieter session if your child prefers less noise.

For other activities suitable for little ones, see our guide to toddler activities in Blackpool.

4. Discover Blackpool's Entertainment History at Showtown

Location: Bank Hey Street, Blackpool

Showtown is an interactive museum that introduces children to Blackpool's history of entertainment.

Instead of relying only on traditional displays, the museum uses interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences to bring the town's stories to life.

Families can learn about comedy, circus entertainment, dancing and the seaside attractions that helped make Blackpool famous.

Children can discover unusual objects, try interactive activities and learn about performers from different periods.

Winter 2026 highlight: Showtown is hosting a Snowtots Christmas Special on 3 December, with sensory activities and festive music for children aged 0–4. Admission to this session is free, but advance booking is required.

Best for: Curious children, creative learning, rainy days and families interested in local history.

Planning tip: Check the museum's admission prices and family events calendar. Some workshops and special sessions have separate booking requirements.

5. Enjoy Tropical Water Fun at Sandcastle Waterpark

Location: South Promenade, Blackpool

Winter weather might not be ideal for swimming outdoors, but Sandcastle Waterpark offers a warm indoor alternative.

The attraction features tropical-themed surroundings, swimming areas and water slides for different ages and abilities.

Younger children can enjoy suitable shallow-water play areas, while older children who meet the relevant height and age requirements can try larger slides.

A waterpark session gives active children a chance to swim, splash and enjoy a different kind of winter outing.

Best for: Families who enjoy swimming, school-age children and confident young swimmers.

Planning tip: Sandcastle operates scheduled admission sessions, and winter opening days can be limited. Check the booking calendar for your exact date rather than assuming it opens daily. Follow the rules for supervision, swimming ability and individual slides.

6. Enjoy Pirate-Themed Games at Coral Island

Location: Bonny Street, Blackpool

Coral Island is an indoor amusement centre with a pirate theme, making it a practical choice during a wet winter afternoon.

Families can wander through the attraction and choose from different arcade games and amusements.

The pirate-themed surroundings are particularly appealing to children who enjoy imaginative adventures.

Older children may enjoy testing their skills on suitable arcade machines, while younger children can watch the displays and participate in age-appropriate games.

Admission to Coral Island is free, although individual games and attractions require payment.

Best for: Mixed-age families, arcade enthusiasts and shorter indoor visits.

Planning tip: Set a spending limit before entering. Arcade machines can become expensive when children want to try several games.

7. Meet Famous Characters at Madame Tussauds Blackpool

Location: Promenade, Blackpool

Madame Tussauds Blackpool offers a chance for children to see lifelike wax figures of well-known entertainment, music, television and sporting personalities.

Families can walk through the themed areas, pose for photographs and discover different displays.

Older children who enjoy television programmes, music or superheroes may particularly like recognising familiar characters.

You can turn the visit into a simple guessing game by asking children to identify the figures before reading their names.

The indoor setting makes the attraction suitable for a winter afternoon when outdoor sightseeing is less comfortable.

Best for: Older children, teenagers and families who enjoy photographs and pop culture.

Planning tip: Check the current display collection, opening hours and ticket options before visiting. Some interactive experiences may have separate participation requirements.

8. Play Magical Indoor Golf at The Hole In Wand

Location: Promenade, Blackpool

For families who enjoy games with a story, The Hole In Wand offers an indoor wizard-themed mini golf experience.

The attraction features nine themed holes, with magical decorations, unusual obstacles and a playful storyline.

Children can pretend to enter a world of spells and potions while practising their putting skills.

Rather than focusing entirely on winning, families can enjoy discovering the different course designs together.

Some parts of the attraction use darker lighting and atmospheric effects.

Best for: Primary-school children, older children and families who enjoy themed games.

Planning tip: The attraction's stated minimum age is three. Book a timed session and ask about sensory-friendly arrangements if your child prefers brighter lighting or quieter surroundings.

9. Burn Off Energy at AirHop Adventure & Trampoline Park

Location: Cornford Road, Blackpool

Some children have plenty of energy even when it's too cold to play outdoors.

AirHop Adventure & Trampoline Park provides an indoor activity for children who enjoy jumping and physical challenges.

The venue features trampoline areas and other adventure equipment, with sessions designed for different age groups.

Older children can enjoy active challenges, while younger visitors may be able to join designated sessions suited to their abilities.

This can be a useful alternative when children want more energetic play after several quiet days indoors.

Best for: Active school-age children, teenagers and suitable younger age groups.

Planning tip: Check individual session rules, minimum ages and footwear requirements. Trampoline activities need close attention to operator instructions, and children should only use equipment appropriate to their size and ability.

10. Visit Blackpool Zoo for a Winter Wildlife Adventure

Location: East Park Drive, Blackpool

Blackpool Zoo provides a chance for children to see animals and learn about wildlife during the colder months.

The zoo features animals such as elephants, penguins, sea lions, giraffes and big cats.

Winter visits can offer a different experience from busy summer outings, although some animals may spend more time in their indoor habitats during cold weather.

Children can learn about animal behaviour, observe different habitats and join keeper talks when available.

There are indoor viewing areas alongside the outdoor enclosures.

Best for: Animal lovers, school-age children and families planning a longer day out.

Planning tip: The zoo is mainly an outdoor attraction, so dress warmly and choose a day with manageable weather. Check winter opening times, talk schedules and any seasonal closures before visiting.

11. Take a Peaceful Winter Walk at Stanley Park

Location: West Park Drive, Blackpool

Stanley Park provides a peaceful alternative to the busy seafront.

During winter, the park's gardens, open spaces and walking paths offer families opportunities to enjoy fresh air and look for wildlife.

Children may enjoy watching birds near the lake, looking at winter trees or taking photographs of the changing scenery.

You can turn the visit into a winter scavenger hunt by asking children to find an evergreen tree, a bird, an interesting branch or a colourful leaf.

The park also includes children's play facilities, although individual equipment and amenities may be affected by weather conditions.

Best for: Free outdoor activities, family walks and children who enjoy nature.

Planning tip: Winter daylight hours are shorter, and some paths may become slippery after rain or frost. Check facilities before visiting and supervise children near the lake.

12. Enjoy a Winter Promenade Walk and Discover the Comedy Carpet

Location: Tower Festival Headland, Blackpool

Blackpool's seafront can be beautiful during winter, particularly on a clear, crisp day.

Instead of planning a long beach outing, choose a short section of the Promenade around Blackpool Tower.

Families can enjoy the sea views, take photographs and visit the Comedy Carpet, the large public artwork featuring names and words associated with British comedy.

Older children may enjoy reading the different phrases, while younger ones can search for large letters and interesting patterns.

A short seaside walk can work well between two indoor attractions.

Best for: Free family entertainment, photographs and shorter outdoor outings.

Planning tip: The Promenade is exposed to strong coastal winds. Keep children away from sea defences during rough conditions, follow tide and weather advice, and avoid slippery surfaces.

13. Experience Christmas by the Sea

Location: Tower Festival Headland, Blackpool

During the festive season, Christmas by the Sea brings winter entertainment to the area near Blackpool Tower.

The event transforms Tower Festival Headland into a seasonal village.

Previous editions have included illuminated decorations, festive refreshments, fairground entertainment and an outdoor skating experience.

Confirmed 2026–27 dates: Friday 20 November 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027.

The organiser has confirmed the dates, but the complete 2026 programme has not yet been published. Families should check which attractions, skating arrangements and activities are available before travelling.

Best for: Christmas family outings, seasonal photographs and festive evening entertainment.

Planning tip: Some parts of the event may be free while others may require payment. Dress warmly, allow time for queues and check weather-related announcements.

14. See the Famous Blackpool Illuminations

Location: Blackpool Promenade

Blackpool Illuminations offer one of the town's most recognisable winter experiences.

The colourful displays stretch along the seafront, giving families opportunities to spot illuminated characters, shapes and patterns.

Younger children may enjoy identifying colours, while older children can take photographs or look for their favourite installations.

Confirmed 2026–27 dates: 4 September 2026 to 3 January 2027.

The Illuminations can be enjoyed during a short evening walk or from suitable transport along the seafront.

Best for: Families with children of all ages, low-cost winter entertainment and evening outings.

Planning tip: The display is free to view, but parking and transport may cost extra. Check the nightly switch-on times and plan a comfortable route, particularly when visiting with toddlers.

For further winter and Christmas outings, read our guide to family days out in Blackpool.

15. Watch a Festive Pantomime at Blackpool Grand Theatre

Location: Church Street, Blackpool

A trip to the theatre can make a lovely winter family tradition.

Blackpool Grand Theatre hosts different performances throughout the year, including its annual Christmas pantomime.

For the 2026 Christmas season, the theatre is staging Jack and the Beanstalk, featuring colourful costumes, comedy, music and traditional audience participation.

Children can follow the familiar story while enjoying the atmosphere of a live performance.

Confirmed dates: Friday 4 December 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027.

The theatre recommends the production for children aged three and above.

Best for: Primary-school children, theatre-loving families and festive indoor entertainment.

Planning tip: Check performance times and book ahead for popular December dates. The show uses loud sound effects and theatrical lighting, so families with sensory needs should review the accessibility information and available performances.

Best Indoor Things to Do in Blackpool During Winter

When rain or strong winds make outdoor plans difficult, choosing an indoor attraction can save the day.

Indoor opening times can vary across winter, so always check the day you plan to visit rather than assuming the attraction operates daily.

Free and Low-Cost Things to Do in Blackpool in Winter

You don't have to spend a large amount on every family outing.

Several winter activities offer free access or can be enjoyed at a relatively low cost.

For paid attractions, compare the total family cost rather than the individual child ticket.

Check whether adult admission, parking, refreshments and optional activities are included.

Best Things to Do in Blackpool in Winter for Different Ages

Children's ages and interests can make a difference to which activities they enjoy.

These age groups are suggestions. Always follow the attraction's own age, height, swimming and supervision rules.

How to Plan a Winter Family Day Out in Blackpool

Winter outings are easier when you choose a few activities in advance and allow time for travel, meals and breaks.

Choose One Main Indoor Activity

Start with a booked attraction that suits your children's ages.

For active play, Jungle World Park is an option for families with younger children.

For a quieter activity, consider Showtown, the aquarium or a short storybook experience.

Combine Nearby Attractions

Several popular family attractions are located around central Blackpool.

You could enjoy a Jungle World Park session during the morning, have lunch in the town centre and visit SEA LIFE or Showtown later.

During the festive season, finish with a short evening walk around the Illuminations or Christmas by the Sea.

Allow enough time between booked activities, especially when visiting with younger children.

Use Public Transport Where Practical

Blackpool's tram network connects different areas along the seafront.

Buses also serve attractions farther inland, including Stanley Park and Blackpool Zoo.

If you're travelling with a pushchair, check accessible stops and service information before leaving.

Check Seasonal Closures

Not every attraction operates on its usual schedule throughout winter.

For the 2026 season, Blackpool Tower Circus and the Tower Top Experience have announced seasonal closures from 1 November.

The main Pleasure Beach Resort has also published a seasonal closure from 28 November 2026.

Some special shows may still take place at these venues, but ordinary daytime entry or rides shouldn't be assumed.

Sample Winter Family Day in Blackpool

This is a flexible example, not a confirmed itinerary. Adjust it around the children's energy levels, attraction times and winter daylight.

For more all-weather family ideas, see our rainy-day activities for kids and families.

Winter Safety Tips for Families Visiting Blackpool

Blackpool's coastal location means winter conditions can change quickly.

A few simple precautions can make family outings more comfortable.

• Dress for the weather: Bring warm coats, gloves, hats and waterproof shoes for outdoor activities.
• Watch for strong winds: Avoid exposed seafront areas during severe weather and follow local safety advice.
• Check tide conditions: Keep children away from the water during rough seas and never enter the sea to retrieve belongings.
• Follow activity restrictions: Check age, height and supervision rules for waterparks, trampolines, soft play and other attractions.
• Plan for crowds: Stay close to younger children during Christmas events and evening light displays.
• Allow regular breaks: Young children may become tired more quickly during busy outings.
• Consider sensory needs: Bright lights, crowds and loud music can be uncomfortable for some children. Look for quieter sessions or relaxed performances when available.

Before visiting, confirm opening times, ticket rules, access and any weather-related changes.

Plan an Indoor Winter Adventure at Jungle World Park Blackpool

For families in Blackpool, Fleetwood, Lytham St Annes and surrounding areas, Jungle World Park Blackpool offers a way to enjoy indoor play throughout the colder months.

Its location at Houndshill Shopping Centre makes it convenient to combine playtime with other central Blackpool activities.

The park includes a dedicated toddler zone, larger climbing areas, slides and a café.

Families can also choose quieter disability-friendly sessions at advertised times.

If you're arranging a separate children's celebration during winter, the venue offers Jungle World Blackpool party packages, including hosted games, food and party-room options.

Check the latest Jungle World Blackpool events for any newly announced winter or festive activities.

Final Thoughts

Blackpool has plenty to offer families beyond the traditional summer season.

From indoor soft play and underwater adventures to interactive museums, winter walks, Christmas lights and festive theatre, these 15 things to do in Blackpool in winter with kids provide options for different ages, interests and budgets.

You don't need perfect weather or a packed schedule to enjoy a family visit.

Choose an indoor activity for colder days, enjoy the seafront when conditions are suitable and check seasonal event dates before travelling.

For families who want to keep little ones active during the colder months, Jungle World Park Blackpool offers indoor play close to the town centre.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best things to do in Blackpool with kids during winter?

Jungle World Park Blackpool, SEA LIFE, The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse, Showtown and indoor mini golf are good choices. During the festive season, families can also enjoy Christmas by the Sea, the Illuminations and pantomimes. Check opening dates before visiting.

2. What can you do in Blackpool with kids when it rains?

Families can visit Jungle World Park for soft play, SEA LIFE for marine animals, Showtown for interactive exhibits or Coral Island for arcade games. Sandcastle Waterpark is another option on scheduled opening days. Book timed attractions ahead during busy periods.

3. Are there free things to do in Blackpool during winter?

Yes. Families can enjoy a Promenade walk, visit the Comedy Carpet and spend time at Stanley Park without an admission charge. Blackpool Illuminations are free to view during their seasonal run. Parking, transport, food and optional entertainment may still cost extra.

4. Is Jungle World Park Blackpool suitable for toddlers in winter?

Yes. Jungle World Park Blackpool has a dedicated toddler soft play area alongside attractions for older children. Jungle Monsters sessions cater for younger children during term-time weekdays. The venue also offers disability-friendly sessions. Check session availability and bring socks for your child.

5. Is Blackpool worth visiting with children in January or February?

Yes. Although Christmas events and the Illuminations finish in early January, families can still choose from indoor attractions, museums, soft play, aquariums and suitable outdoor walks. Check seasonal opening hours carefully, as some major attractions close or operate reduced schedules during winter.