Blackpool Hoteliers Express Confidence for 2026 Summer Season
Hoteliers in Blackpool are in an optimistic mood as they look ahead to the forthcoming summer season, anticipating a resurgence for the resort. The positive outlook was evident at the recent StayBlackpool Trade Show and Open Day, held in the Norcalympia Suite at the Norbreck Castle Hotel, which brought together accommodation and leisure businesses from across the Fylde Coast.
Factors Driving Optimism
Many hoteliers pointed to external factors that could benefit Blackpool's tourism trade in 2026. Uncertainty over the Middle East crisis and the rising cost of fuel are expected to encourage more people to opt for 'staycation' holidays within the UK, potentially drawing increased visitor numbers to the town.
Ian White of StayBlackpool, a premier trade association for holiday accommodation in the resort and on the Fylde coast, stated: "I'm very encouraged by the way things are looking." He highlighted collaboration with Blackpool Tourism, which oversees major attractions like Blackpool Tower, Sandcastle Waterpark, and Madame Tussauds.
New Initiatives Boosting Appeal
Blackpool Tourism, formed by Blackpool Council to boost the local economy and reinvest profits into town services, has launched a new "Ultimate Ticket" in March 2026. Priced at £65, it offers entry to six major attractions, coinciding with English Tourism Week. Kate Shane of Blackpool Tourism has expressed a desire to work closely with local businesses, with Ian White noting that this ticket could encourage longer stays and increased spending.
Additionally, Blackpool's inclusion on the shortlist for City of Culture has generated positive attention. Ian White remarked: "Now Blackpool is on the short list for City of Culture, we're also seeing the town being talked about in a positive light."
Hoteliers Share Enthusiasm
Sarah Lovell, representing the Grand Hotel—one of Blackpool's largest establishments with 278 bedrooms—shared her optimism: "There really is optimism around here today. Speaking for the Grand alone, we've already had a lot of forward bookings, including for conferences." She emphasized Blackpool's broad appeal, noting it caters to business people, families, and couples seeking a break.
Paul Vermiglio, business development manager for Trevors Food Services, echoed this sentiment: "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."
Background and Context
The upbeat mood follows the creation of Blackpool Tourism last summer, which now manages key attractions previously operated by Merlin Entertainments. This move aims to enhance the local economy and support town services. The StayBlackpool Trade Show served as a platform for businesses to showcase their offerings, with organisers and stallholders reporting a positive atmosphere.
Overall, Blackpool's holiday trade is poised for a strong 2026 season, driven by staycation trends, strategic initiatives, and growing recognition of the town's cultural and leisure assets.
