Blackpool Pleasure Beach: Thrillseekers get one last chance to go on classic Grand Prix ride

Fans of Pleasure Beach Resort’s beloved Grand Prix are being given a chance to ride it for one last time before it closes – and join a big party to celebrate its final lap.

Back in March, Pleasure Beach announced the Grand Prix would not be opening for the 2024 season to make way for a brand new attraction in the future.

Read more about the closure here

But while fans were excited about the prospect of a new ride, many were sad to say goodbye to a childhood favourite that has provided them with fond memories throughout the years. Now, the Blackpool attraction has announced a huge ‘closing party’ for the ride in June, inspired by the Grand Prix 2023 celebrations which took place in Las Vegas in October.

Night time event

 The night-time event will see both ride and car enthusiasts coming together to enjoy memorable performances by local artists and musicians, live DJ sets, and entertainment from Pleasure Beach’s own Grid Girls.

The main draw for many will be the chance to enjoy the Grand Prix for one final time and receive a commemorative certificate to verify that they were one of the last people to ride such an iconic ride, as well as a memento ticket. They’ll also be able to ride ICON after dark, which launches guests using the same G-force as a Formula 1 driver before twisting and turning at high speed.

Real-life supercars

The party area will be taken over by real-life supercars provided by Bispham-based business Elite Competitions, along with Pleasure Beach Resort’s Jordan F1 car. The F1 car was famously ‘driven’ down the Big One, including its 235ft drop, by racing driver Ralph Firman in 2003, in footage that can be seen here.

Guests can have their photographs taken with the iconic cars and will enjoy prosecco on arrival, as well as Grand Prix-themed snacks and food.

Amanda Thompson, chief executive of Pleasure Beach Resort, said: “The Grand Prix has been part of the Pleasure Beach family since 1960 when it was introduced by my grandfather. It has a special place in my heart and has provided our guests with cherished memories for many years, so it’s only right we give it a fitting send off.

“This event will be a celebration of its legacy and the joy it has brought to generations of visitors, as well as an opportunity to bid a final farewell to such a beloved attraction. Whilst it’s sad to say goodbye, we’re constantly evolving and reviewing our ride offering, looking at ways to improve and provide even more memorable experiences for our guests.”

 History of the ride

The Grand Prix ride first opened in 1960 and has been a family favourite ever since. Originally called the Turnpike, the cars were petrol powered until 2002 when they became powered by electricity.

Get your tickets

Grand Prix: The Final Lap is taking place on Friday June 7 from 6pm until late. Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com/events/grand-prix-the-final-lap/