An overview of: Blackpool

Where is Blackpool?
About the region
Transportation
Living in the area
Schooling
Leisure
Healthcare
Relocation support

Where is Blackpool?

Blackpool is a town located on the northwest coast of England.

It’s situated in the county of Lancashire and is known for its iconic Blackpool Tower, Pleasure Beach, and its illuminations – a significant lights festival that takes place annually.

The town lies approximately 15 miles northwest of Preston, 27 miles north of Liverpool, and 40 miles northwest of Manchester.

You can find Blackpool here on Google Maps.

About the region

Blackpool is situated in Lancashire, a historic county in the northwest of England. Lancashire boasts a diverse landscape, from its rugged coastline and flat coastal plains to the rolling hills and river valleys further inland. Beyond Blackpool’s famous seaside attractions, Lancashire offers rich cultural heritage, picturesque countryside, and a mix of traditional and contemporary experiences, making it a significant region in the heart of England’s North West.

Transportation

Blackpool is well-connected with a variety of transport links:

Train: Blackpool North Station is the main railway station in the town, offering direct services to destinations such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Preston. From these cities, travellers can connect to other parts of the UK. Blackpool South Station serves the southern part of the town and provides connections primarily towards Preston and other local destinations.

Car: Blackpool can be accessed by the M55 motorway, which connects to the M6 motorway. The M6 provides a major north-south route, making Blackpool easily reachable from various parts of the UK.

Bus: The town has an extensive bus network, both locally operated by Blackpool Transport and regionally with links to towns and cities across Lancashire and beyond. The main bus hub is the Blackpool Transport Hub, located near Blackpool North train station.

Air: Blackpool Airport was previously a hub for commercial flights but now predominantly serves general aviation and private flights. For larger commercial flights, nearby major airports include Manchester Airport and Liverpool John Lennon Airport, both of which are within reasonable driving distance and offer wider flight options.

Living in the area

Blackpool offers a comparatively affordable living experience relative to many UK cities. The coastal town boasts a range of housing options, from historic Victorian terraces to modern apartments, often priced below the national average.

Utility costs align with national standards, while local transportation, including buses and the iconic trams, is competitively priced. Grocery shopping provides standard pricing, and the town offers diverse dining options to fit various budgets.

Overall, Blackpool merges the appeal of seaside living with the benefits of urban conveniences, all set against a backdrop of lower living costs.

Schooling

Blackpool has a range of schooling options available, catering to the diverse needs of its residents:

Primary and Secondary Schools: Blackpool is home to numerous primary and secondary schools that provide education for children between the ages of 4 and 16.

Sixth Form and Further Education: For post-16 education, Blackpool has both school-based sixth forms and colleges. Notably, Blackpool Sixth Form College offers a range of A-level courses and vocational qualifications. Additionally, Blackpool and The Fylde College provides a wider range of further education courses, including BTECs, apprenticeships, and adult learning opportunities.

Special Education Needs (SEN): Schools like the Park Community Academy cater to students with special educational needs, providing a tailored curriculum to support their learning and development.

Private and Independent Schools: While the majority of schools in Blackpool are state-funded, there are also private and independent options available for families seeking an alternative to the state sector.

Further and Higher Education: Beyond secondary schooling, Blackpool and The Fylde College not only provides further education but also offers higher education courses, including foundation degrees and bachelor’s degrees in partnership with universities like Lancaster University.

Leisure

Blackpool is a vibrant seaside resort renowned for its array of leisure activities. The iconic Blackpool Tower offers panoramic views and hosts various entertainment events, while the Pleasure Beach amusement park thrills visitors with roller coasters and rides. The town’s illuminations (an annual lights festival) and sandy beaches provide a space for relaxation and traditional seaside fun. With theatres like the Winter Gardens and Grand Theatre presenting shows and performances, and a bustling nightlife, Blackpool guarantees a diverse range of leisure experiences for both residents and tourists.

Healthcare

Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is the central healthcare provider in Blackpool, overseeing the key Blackpool Victoria Hospital.

Blackpool Victoria Hospital is a major NHS hospital, offering a wide range of healthcare services. It serves as the main hospital for the area and is equipped with modern facilities.

As a teaching hospital, it also plays a role in training healthcare professionals. The hospital prioritises patient-centred care and safety, providing essential medical services to the local community.

Relocation support

How do Doctors Relocate assist with your relocation?

In addition to providing personalised career guidance, facilitating interviews and managing negotiations to secure the right job opportunity for each individual, we offer ongoing relocation support to our candidates, helping with practical matters such as accommodation arrangements, banking, and setting up other essential services.

Our dedicated team is readily available to address any concerns or queries that you have along the way, ensuring that you feel supported and confident throughout your relocation.

With our guidance, you can confidently navigate the relocation journey, focusing on your professional and personal growth in the UK.