South Shore’s past brought to life in new heritage exhibition
Photographs, keepsakes and memories of South Shore’s past have gone on display in a new exhibition celebrating the character and community spirit of one of Blackpool’s best-loved areas.
A new exhibition is bringing South Shore’s history to life through the eyes of the people who know it best with personal photographs, keepsakes and stories showcasing decades of community life.
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The South Shore Stories exhibition is now open at Blackpool Enterprise Centre and will run until September 2026, offering a free opportunity for residents and visitors to explore the area’s heritage.
Led by Blackpool Council’s Business Growth Team, the project invited residents to share family photographs, souvenirs and memories ranging from seaside holidays and guest houses to shopping trips, former attractions and recollections of the much-loved Lido Baths.
The contributions have been brought together in both a public exhibition and a commemorative book, creating a vivid snapshot of South Shore through the generations.
Cllr Mark Smith, cabinet member for economy and built environment, said the response had been “excellent”, adding: “The South Shore Stories exhibition highlights and celebrates the sense of community and vibrancy that has always been part of this much-loved area.
“From residents and local businesses to families with long-standing ties to South Shore, the community response has been excellent.
“The exhibition showcases the very best of the area and also serves as a thank you to everyone who contributed their stories.”
The project has also been accompanied by a commemorative book featuring a foreword by Elaine Smith MBE, chairman of Blackpool Civic Trust, who moved to the town in 1945.
She described South Shore as “a place full of memories, character and community spirit that deserves to be celebrated and remembered.”
Angela Kershaw, head of business growth at Blackpool Council, said the exhibition carried personal significance and reflected the area’s enduring identity. S
he added that support from the Shared Prosperity Fund had helped bring the project to life, alongside wider investment plans including £1m from the Pride in Place Impact Fund and £415,000 earmarked for improvements around Waterloo Road and Lytham Road.
Creative contributor Steve Fairclough said it had been “lovely to see the project come full circle”, thanking residents for sharing their stories and helping shape both the book and exhibition.
The South Shore Stories exhibition is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, at Blackpool Enterprise Centre, Lytham Road, with free entry until September 2026.