Blackpool, UK – Blackpool Pleasure Beach has come under fire from visitors following the introduction of a £25 admission fee for guests not intending to use any of the park’s rides.
The controversial charge, described by the park as a way to offer greater “flexibility when planning a day out,” includes £5 in “Pleasure Beach Pounds” that can be redeemed for food, discounted show tickets, and other attractions such as the Chinese Puzzle Maze. Despite these inclusions, the fee has sparked widespread criticism, with some calling it “overpriced” and “daylight robbery.”
Critics have argued that the charge may deter families and non-riders from visiting the park altogether. “Overpriced. £10 per non-rider would have got far more people through the gates,” one visitor remarked. Others described the policy as a “con,” highlighting frustrations over paying for access without using the main attractions.
For those intending to enjoy the rides, ticket prices have also increased. On-the-day adult tickets now cost £50, while advance online purchases are priced at £30.
Despite the backlash, Blackpool Pleasure Beach remains one of the UK’s most visited theme parks. Established in 1896, it is home to a wide variety of attractions including 10 rollercoasters, five indoor ‘dark’ rides, five water rides, and 12 Nickelodeon-themed attractions. The park also hosts seasonal events such as late-night ride sessions and fireworks displays.
The park was recently rated the top destination for families during the summer holidays based on customer reviews. In a continued effort to modernize, a major new attraction, the Launch Pad, debuted in 2025. The high-thrill ride propels guests 210 feet into the air at speeds of up to 80mph, reinforcing the park’s reputation for adrenaline-pumping experiences.
Blackpool’s broader tourism sector is also seeing investment, with plans underway to revamp the iconic Winter Gardens complex in the coming years.
While the pricing structure has ignited debate, Blackpool Pleasure Beach maintains that the changes are part of its ongoing strategy to enhance guest experiences and sustain its status as a premier UK attraction.
