Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.
Darlings, let’s take a whimsical whirl through the sensational seaside splendor that is Blackpool, an effervescent jewel in the UK’s fabulous crown, shimmering with all the glitter and glam one could wish for!
Picture this: the iconic pier, stretching out like a runway for the gods, the beach where the sun kisses the waves, and oh, those delightfully dizzying fairground rides – a carnival of joys for the young and young-at-heart. And honey, when we talk about gay nightlife, Blackpool is the crème de la crème, a veritable mecca for the fabulous and flamboyant!
But wait, there’s more! This isn’t just a weekend getaway; it’s a plunge into a vibrant historical tapestry. Blackpool, the Gay Capital of the North, is steeped in a rich, colorful history, intertwined with the LGBTQ+ movement like a rainbow thread. From the days of hush-hush underground gatherings to the loud and proud celebrations of today, Blackpool has been a beacon of acceptance and joy. It’s where the queer spirit found a home, blossoming into a fabulous scene of inclusivity.
Now, my lovely adventurers, as you saunter down the promenade, clad in your most dazzling “Kiss Me Quick” hat and perhaps a feather boa (because why not?), you’ll be enveloped in a sense of belonging. It’s not just the cabaret calling your name; it’s the echo of history, of battles fought and love celebrated.
And when the night falls, and the neon lights of the bars start to glow, that’s when Blackpool truly comes alive. It’s a carnival of the night, each gay bar a treasure chest of stories and laughter. Priorities, darlings, where to start? The options are as plentiful as the stars in the sky.
Ah, but where to rest your fabulous head after such exhilarating escapades? Fear not! The gay B&Bs in Blackpool are as plentiful as the sequins on a drag queen’s gown. Each gay B&B in Blackpool offers its unique charm, a cozy haven to recharge and dream of the next day’s adventures. From quaint and quirky to luxuriously lavish, these gay B&Bs in Blackpool are not just places to stay; they are experiences, each with a story to tell.
So pack your bags, bring your most radiant self, and dive into the delightful, dazzling, and ever so queer world of Blackpool. It’s more than a trip; it’s a journey through history, a celebration of now, and a toast to the future. See you there, fabulous ones!
The Trentham Hotel
A budget option, you won’t miss the eye-catching purple-painted front of this gay B&B in Blackpool. This sense of fun and welcome is continued once inside, where the owner, Graham, works hard to make sure you have a great stay. The rooms are cozy and have facilities to make tea and coffee.
When you want to venture out, the spectacular Blackpool nightlife is right on your doorstep, with restaurants, bars, and clubs all nearby. When you need to blow away the cobwebs the next morning, the promenade and fresh sea air are only seconds away.
Grampian House
If you want a B&B right in the heart of Blackpool’s gay quarter, Grampian House is a good place to get started. It’s an easy place to explore the area from as it’s only 50 meters from the Promenade and a short walk into town, but is in the quieter North Side for those of us who like to get a good night’s sleep.
The gay-owned B&B is friendly, clean and has good quality en-suite rooms. When you need to fuel up for the day ahead you can enjoy a full English breakfast, but when you want more of a lie-in you can have a lighter option.
Phoenix Guest House
This gay-owned guest house is brilliant value for money. There are eight en-suite rooms and two with shared facilities; all have tea, coffee and free Wi-Fi. There’s a self-service continental breakfast in the pretty, blue building, or guests can pop next door to feast on a full English.
All of Blackpool’s main attractions are a mere five minutes away – whether you want to go on the dodgems or see the famous Funny Girls act, you know you won’t have to walk far. It’s gay-friendly but not exclusive, so perfect if you want all your friends to come along on your trip!
Westfield House Hotel
This is definitely the option if you’re on more of a dirty weekend, with modern décor and a fully licensed bar. It’s gay-owned and adults-only, with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Owners Nick and John are always on hand to offer you information and recommendations to enjoy Blackpool to its fullest.
In the North Shore area, you’re only a short walk from the train station and all the fun of the fair. There’s a lounge area where you can chill out after a day’s exploring or a night’s partying.
Thornhill Hotel
Thornhill Hotel is only 50 yards from Blackpool’s Promenade, where you can enjoy views of the Irish Sea. Adam and Dave, the owners, ran a bar in Gran Canaria for 10 years before moving to the more exotic shores of Blackpool, and delight in making this gay B&B a welcoming oasis.
The exceptional reviews for Thornhill talk of its ideal location and great value for money. There’s a range of breakfast to choose from and rooms are en-suite and tastefully decorated. It’s a lovely place to explore the sights and sounds of Blackpool from, whether you’re after fairground rides or cabaret shows.
Windsor House
This former Victorian seaside villa has been transformed into a gay-popular B&B in Blackpool, walking distance from the famous gay nightlife and the promenade. There’s little more you could want for a quintessentially ‘Blackpool’ experience.
Get tips about the city from Paul and Craig, who love to make you feel welcome. The rooms are simple but stylish and have tea and coffee-making facilities for that morning cuppa in bed. Make special inquiries by phone about Pride, as they want to make it a 100% gay experience for that time!
The Edenfield Guest House
We love the Edwardian terrace building that houses this award-winning gay B&B in Blackpool. Each guest room is individually styled with comfortable beds and a little bit of luxury at a reasonable price. All rooms are en-suite and some even have dressing rooms and seating areas, if you really want to treat yourself (and your other half!).
There is a stately dining room and bar area, where you can enjoy a drink before a night out. Come at the right time of year and you’ll even see the garden blossoming in all its glory. Philip and Mark make you feel welcome and at home.
The Dragonfly
This gay-owned guest house wants to give a home away from home vibe and fully succeeds thanks to the friendly efforts of Adam and Paul. It’s a hotel-style B&B with a range of room options, from cozy and contemporary en-suites to something that little bit more luxurious (king-sized leather bed, anyone?).
It’s in a prime location, minutes away from the seafront, the train station and all the lights and glamour of Blackpool. You can even have a reasonably priced glass of wine before heading off on a raucous night on the town. Recover the next day with a traditional English breakfast with all the trimmings – maybe skip the black pudding if it was a very wild night!
