Blackpool Pleasure Beach Resort named as world-leading family day out with Disney World and Universal Studios
World-leading!
Blackpool Pleasure Beach Resort has been named alongside Disney World in Florida and Universal Studios, California, as one of the best days out for families in the world.
The resort attraction is one of only two from the UK to feature in the top 10 list alongside Disneyland Paris and Tokyo and Legoland in Denmark. The list has been compiled by Attraction Tickets who ranked the holiday destinations most likely to appeal to children and their families.
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The Pleasure Beach's number six ranking was decided after thousands of reviews from across the globe were analysed. Attraction Tickets boss Oliver Brendon said: "Nowadays, keeping children entertained on holiday is more challenging than ever.
"With so many kids accustomed to the instant gratification of iPad games and interactive television shows, traditional holiday moments such as lounging by the pool or playing on the beach, often aren't enough to hold their attention.
"To take the guesswork out of planning, we created the Banish Boredom Index. By analysing hundreds of thousands of reviews, we identified the destinations and attractions that genuinely captivate kids and keep them engaged throughout the trip.
"It's no surprise that destinations such as Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort and Disneyland Paris top the list. However, you don't always need to travel across the pond, as Blackpool Pleasure Beach Resort proves the UK can deliver the same level of excitement and engagement closer to home."
The Pleasure Beach scored 24 out of 30 after reviews of more than 160 worldwide destinations were reviewed. One reviewer, posting on TripAdvisor, said: "Alton Towers need to come here and see how a theme park should be run for catering and rides and how good staff can make a world of difference."
Another added on the site - where the Pleasure Beach is rated four stars out of five, added: "Had a great day. Got on loads of rides and went on the big rides numerous times. Found all the staff very friendly."
A five star review said: "I love the Pleasure Beach. It seems to get a bit of a reputation for being a 'tired' amusement park, but I completely disagree and still think it holds it own against Alton Towers and Thorpe Park.
On May 21, the record-breaking £8.72m Aviktas ride is due to open. The attraction will be the largest gyro swing ride in the UK, reaching heights of 138ft and swinging thrill seekers at angles of up to 120 degrees.
Amanda Thompson, Pleasure Beach Resort CEO, said: "This isn't just a new ride, it's a completely unique experience to UK theme parks as a whole. We have a history of going big and this certainly is no exception."
The top 10 attractions are:
1. Walt Disney World Resort, Florida, USA.
2. Universal Studios, Orlando, Florida, USA.
3. Disneyland Paris, France.
4. Tokyo Disneyland, Japan.
5. Aquatica, Florida, USA.
6. Blackpool Pleasure Beach, UK.
7. Waterbom, Bali, Indonesia.
8. Universal Studios, Hollywood, USA
9. Diggerland, UK.
10. Legoland, Denmark.