Blackpool’s going to have a great season, hoteliers say as optimism rises

Blackpool’s holiday trade is in optimistic mood for the forthcoming season and anticipates that the resort is on the up again.

Hoteliers who attended today’s busy StayBlackpool Trade Show and Open Day said a number of factors were at play which gave them confidence about 2026.

Many felt that uncertainty over the Middle East crisis and the rising cost of fuel could help draw in more ‘staycation’ visitors to the town.

The trade show, staged in the Norcalympia Suite at the Norbreck Castle Hotel, brought together the best of the Fylde Coast accommodation and leisure trades in one place.

And the mood was upbeat among organisers and stallholders.

Last summer saw the creation of Blackpool Tourism, which now oversees and manages major town attractions, including Blackpool Tower, Sandcastle Waterpark, and Madame Tussauds, previously operated by Merlin Entertainments.

Formed by Blackpool Council , it aims to boost the local economy and reinvest profits into town services, and has just launched its new “Ultimate Ticket” in March 2026, offering entry to six major attractions for £65 to mark English Tourism Week.

Ian White of StayBlackpool, a premier trade association for holiday accommodation in the resort and on the Fylde coast, said: “I’m very encouraged by the way things are looking.

“Kate Shane of Blackpool Tourism has declared how she wants to work with us and I believe their new Ultimate Ticket will encourage people to stay longer in the town, and bring more money in.

“Now Blackpool is on the short list for City of Culture, we’re also seeing the town being talked about in a positive light”

Sarah Lovell was manning the stand for the Grand Hotel, one of the town’s biggest and most prominent establishments with 278 bedrooms.

She said: “There really is optimism around here today.

“Speaking for the Grand alone, we’ve already had a lot of forward bookings, including for conferences.

“And why not? Blackpool has a lot to offer. We’re a friendly town and there is something for everyone here – business people, families, couples coming here to get away for a break.

“I’m not surprised we’re included in the City of Culture List, we’ve got so much here.”

Paul Vermiglio, business development manager for Trevors Food Services, said: “We’re already hearing that quite a few people are thinking against going abroad this year, with everything that’s going on in the world.

“That presents a great opportunity for a big tourist resort like Blackpool. It’s perfect  for stay-cations. I’m sure this is going to be a great year.”