Stunning shots of resort in the roaring Twenties

These delightful old photographs found in The Gazette archives show Blackpool around the time it was becoming an increasingly popular and growing holiday destination.
Camels on the beach at Blackpool, 1896Camels on the beach at Blackpool, 1896
Camels on the beach at Blackpool, 1896

They capture the essence of the traditional British seaside resort, along with some of Blackpool’s best-known and loved landmarks and scenery. Undated, they appear to originate from the 1920s, given the style of cars and dress which can be seen on some.

The Pleasure Beach features in one of the pictures – illuminated in the darkness of night, its Ferris wheel can be seen, along with in the left corner, just visible, the sign for the Grand National rollercoaster.

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One of the shots is of the beach itself, with the iconic Blackpool Tower and North Pier in the background. The turrets of the splendid Palatine Hotel can be seen under the Tower.

Gynn Square, BlackpoolGynn Square, Blackpool
Gynn Square, Blackpool

The Promenade is featured on four separate pictures. It is clearly recognisable, despite the changes it has undergone over the years.

But the main difference between the Promenade of the 20s and today is how quiet is was back in the day.

There are of course far fewer cars on the road, and appears from one of the pictures parking was once allowed on the roadside! A tandem bicycle can be seen on one picture, and of course, the famous Blackpool trams.

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One of the Promenade photos is of Gynn Square. The Sunken Gardens can be seen to the left of the picture and the iconic Savoy Hotel, with its famous dome.

Sunken Gardens, BlackpoolSunken Gardens, Blackpool
Sunken Gardens, Blackpool

Nowadays, the Gynn roundabout sits where the two roads meet in the photograph. Children and their families are pictured enjoying the Sunken Gardens on one shot, and Middle Walk in two photos – with its distinctive pillars and a cart selling oysters.

The vast power of the sea is shown – with a crowd of people on Middle Walk, gathered to watch the fierce waves crashing into the sea wall. And a rather unusual sight for Blackpool can be seen, according to a note on the back, from 1896. Camels! Tethered together in a line, walking across the beach.