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Double the Maximum Rush: All You Need to Know About the ICON Roller Coaster
- What is the ICON roller coaster?
- What is ENSŌ?
- Where is ICON located?
- Best Time to Visit the ICON Roller Coaster
- How to Get to the ICON Roller Coaster
- Things Good to Know Before Going
- What to Do and See Near the ICON
- Take the Kids to Nickelodeon Land
- Do Hole in Ones at Adventure Golf
- Enjoy the All-Year Ice at the Arena
- Stare in Wonder at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
- Scare Your Socks off at Pasaje Del Terror
- Where to Eat Near the ICON Roller Coaster
- White Tower Restaurant - Blackpool
- Turtle Bay - Blackpool
- The Gallant Pioneer
- Bentley’s Fish & Chips Shop
- The Eating Inn
- Café Rendezvous
- West Coast Rock Cafe
- FAQs about the ICON Roller Coaster
Manchester is a fantastic city with everything you could want. But sometimes, the urge to explore new places and try new experiences just won’t go away, right?
Luckily, our country has an excellent transport network that makes it easy to visit other exciting destinations, like Blackpool with its beautiful coastline and amazing amusement parks.
If you’re seeking a thrilling ride, check out the ICON. It’s been around for a few years, but if you haven’t heard about it yet, this guide will fill you in.
What is the ICON roller coaster?
As of now, ICON is the newest roller coaster at the famed Pleasure Beach Resort (formerly known as the Blackpool Pleasure Beach). It began its thrilling rides in 2018.
ICON is the park’s tenth roller coaster. This steel-tracked ride can carry up to 16 people in its four interconnected cars.
What makes ICON unique is that it’s the UK’s first double-launch roller coaster.
This means it can speed up to 80 km/h (50 mph) at the start and then boost to 85 km/h (53 mph) just before reaching 27 metres (88.5 feet), the highest point of the track. That’s two heart-stopping boosts and 4.3Gs!
If you’re a larger-sized individual, don’t worry, you can still ride ICON. Thankfully, its last row can fit bigger people.
What is ENSŌ?
In 2022, “ENSŌ” was introduced as an additional feature of ICON. True to the actual Japanese meaning of the word (a circle), it’s a car with rotating seats that can replace ICON’s end car.
Since this is a definite upgrade to the thrill of ICON, riding the ENSŌ is only available for an additional fee of £15 up to £25.
Pleasure Beach Resort recently began calling the entire ride “ICON & ENSŌ.”
See ICON & ENSŌ in action in this video (bonus if you’re a fan of the Sidemen!):
Where is ICON located?
ICON is located right inside the Pleasure Beach Resort, an amusement park beside the South Shore in Blackpool, Lancashire. This park is one of the oldest amusement parks in the UK, being founded in 1896.
Pleasure Beach Resort is also home to other iconic (pun intended) roller coasters, such as the bobsled-type Avalanche and the former steepest roller coaster in the world, The Big One.
Best Time to Visit the ICON Roller Coaster
Access to the ICON roller coaster is the same as the rest of the park. It’s open daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM for all adventurous and brave souls.
The best time to ride ICON is during the sunnier and warmer months of May to September, especially starting in June when schools open.
For a better experience, we highly suggest visiting ICON (and the rest of Pleasure Beach Resort) on weekdays, right when the park opens, to avoid long queues.
How to Get to the ICON Roller Coaster
Travelling to Pleasure Beach Resort to see the ICON roller coaster is easy, as it’s a popular and historical attraction. It’s very accessible by various modes of transport, especially from Manchester.
Here are some options:
- Driving: If you plan to drive, it takes about 1.5 hours from Manchester city centre.
- Closest bus stop: Take a bus from Manchester Coach Station to Blackpool’s Central Coach Station. From there, walk to New Bonny St and take the 26 Bus to either Sandcastle or Pleasure Beach stops, both in front of the resort.
- Closest train station: From Manchester Piccadilly Station, you have the option to either take the National Rail all the way, or take a train then transfer to a Blackpool tram.
If you choose the former, take the National Rail directly to Blackpool Pleasure Beach Station, the closest station south of ICON.
If you want to experience Blackpool’s local transport, take a train to Blackpool North Station, then walk to Pleasant Street tram stop and take the tram to Pleasure Beach. This stop is just across the Pleasure Beach Resort.
Once inside the resort, head towards the Ocean Boulevard side to reach ICON. It’s located right next to the Avalanche and Big Dipper roller coasters.
Things Good to Know Before Going
We know you’re excited to experience ICON’s breathtaking speed, but here are some important things to know before visiting Pleasure Beach Resort and ICON itself:
- Parking: There are three pay car parks near the resort (Balmoral Road, Ocean Boulevard, and Bond Street). Plan your trip accordingly, as spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
- Entrance fees: Tickets are available only in electronic format and can be purchased on the resort’s website. These are scanned upon resort entry and for rides like ICON.
E-tickets cost £40 for kids and £50 for adults. You can get cheaper e-tickets by booking in advance, but availability is limited and can change without notice.
Lastly, if you’re a roller coaster or amusement park aficionado, consider getting a Season Pass. You’ll enjoy the lowest entrance fees per visit and become eligible for various discounts! - Accessibility: Pleasure Beach Resort accommodates various accessibility needs, including Access/Nimbus cardholders and their carers, individuals with special education needs (SEN), and others in situations needing an EasyPass to avoid queuing.
The resort also offers adult changing facilities, wheelchair hires, and sensory spaces. Service animals are allowed, provided their owners follow the park’s policies. - Height Restrictions at ICON: Only persons with a minimum height of 130 cm (4 ft. 3 in.) may ride ICON. However, if you want to ride at the back row or the ENSŌ car, then the minimum height requirement increases to 150 cm (4 ft. 11 in.).
What to Do and See Near the ICON
Take the Kids to Nickelodeon Land
Media from Pleasure Beach Resort
Nickelodeon Land at Pleasure Beach Resort is a haven for kids, while the rest of the park caters mostly to the young at heart. This 6-acre (2.4 ha) section is packed with rides and attractions inspired by popular Nickelodeon characters and shows.
One of the standout attractions is SpongeBob’s Splash Bash, a water ride where kids can splash each other with barnacle water cannons, bringing the underwater world of our favourite sponge to life.
For those who are looking for something that’s tamer than the ICON, the Nickelodeon Streak roller coaster offers a fun, family-friendly experience. Entrance to the Land is included in the e-ticket, so no need to worry about any extra fee.
Do Hole in Ones at Adventure Golf
Media from Pleasure Beach Resort
Pleasure Beach Resort offers a mini golf course for those seeking a more refined form of entertainment. Challenge yourself to score as many hole-in-ones as possible!
The course looks great with green grass, streams, and all the bells and whistles of a normal mini golf course. It features 12 holes, each presenting unique challenges for putters—one highlight is the figure-eight track, which you’ll find (ironically) at hole number 9.
Keep in mind that Adventure Golf is typically open from March to November, with select days in December, though some days may be weather-dependent.
Enjoy the All-Year Ice at the Arena
Media from Pleasure Beach Resort
The Arena at the Pleasure Beach Resort is renowned as the world’s oldest venue specifically built for ice performances. Its most popular attraction is the Hot Ice Show, a breathtaking ice-skating performance that features a new story every year.
Besides the shows, the Arena is open daily for public skating, with skates available for hire. If you need professional guidance, skating lessons are also offered.
For those who prefer to watch, you can enjoy the action from the sidelines as a spectator. Just remember, you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket for entry to the Arena, even if you already have a ticket for the rest of the resort.
Stare in Wonder at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Media from Pleasure Beach Resort
No amusement park is complete without a touch of the extraordinary, and that’s exactly what Ripley’s Believe It or Not! offers.
Ripley’s features eight themed galleries spread across two floors of its building, each packed with oddities that you have to see for yourself to believe.
For example, you can compare your height to a life-size figure of Robert Wadlow, the tallest man ever. You can also enjoy a unique art appreciation session by viewing artwork created from the most unconventional materials imaginable.
Book your tickets online through either the Pleasure Beach Resort or Ripley’s website.
Scare Your Socks off at Pasaje Del Terror
Media from Pasaje Del Terror Blackpool
Get ready to scare the socks off your feet at Pasaje Del Terror, an eerie and terrifying maze in the Casino Building at Pleasure Beach Resort. Entering this attraction is a gamble between having a thrilling night out or getting a nightmare later on.
You’ll feel like the star of your own horror movie as you run through 20 different, spine-chilling sets, complete with jump scares and shocking twists. The 20-minute runtime might feel too short or just enough, depending on how brave you are!
Tickets for Pasaje Del Terror are separate from the park’s. We recommend booking online early to secure your spot on this chilling adventure.
Where to Eat Near the ICON Roller Coaster
There are plenty of food stalls near ICON and throughout Pleasure Beach Resort, making it easy to grab a quick snack or drink between rides.
However, if you’re travelling all the way from Manchester, it would be a shame not to explore some of Blackpool’s restaurants, including those outside the amusement park.
Here’s our list of notable places you should try:
White Tower Restaurant – Blackpool
Media from Becky BK
Address: Casino Building, Pleasure Beach Resort, Blackpool FY4 1EZ
Phone: 1253 336403
Pricing: ££
Operating hours:
- Friday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Monday to Thursday – CLOSED
Good to know: Great coastal and skyline views; Value for money
Website
Menu
If you don’t want to venture far from the ICON, consider dining at the White Tower Restaurant. Named after the white facade of its home, the Casino Building within Pleasure Beach Resort, this restaurant offers a delightful dining experience.
The menu features British favourites like Roast Sirloin of Beef and Sticky Toffee Pudding. However, the actual star for many is the White Tower Prawn Cocktail, a nostalgic dish known for its generous serving and tasty sauce.
We highly recommend booking your table in advance. The restaurant operates only three days over the weekends, and its good food and stunning penthouse-level coastal views are in high demand.
Turtle Bay – Blackpool
Media from Caroline Lewis
Address: Unit 1 Promenade, Market St, Blackpool FY1 1ET
Phone: 1253 272580
Pricing: ££
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Thursday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday – 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Good to know: Has brunch and cocktail promos
Website
Menu
The Blackpool branch of Turtle Bay is just as vibrant as its sister locations, including Manchester. Staying true to the brand’s colourful theme, this branch serves up Caribbean favourites and soul food.
As always, we recommend getting the Jerk Chicken or Curry Goat à la carte for lunch or dinner. For adults, don’t miss out on Turtle Bay’s Happy Hour, with cocktails available every day from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
If you’re in the mood for live entertainment, Turtle Bay Blackpool features a resident band that plays every first Saturday of the month at 10:00 PM.
The Gallant Pioneer
Media from Scott Weir
Address: 11 Station Rd, Blackpool FY4 1BE
Phone: [email protected]
Pricing: £
Operating hours:
- Monday – 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 12:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 24 hours
- Sunday – 12:00 to 12:45 AM, 12:00 PM to 12:45 AM
Good to know: Open almost 24/7, For football fans
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Football fans, rejoice! After the thrills of the ICON roller coaster, let The Gallant Pioneer, a football-themed pub, keep the excitement going.
Spend your evening at this lively pub after a day at Pleasure Beach Resort. Enjoy a pint of beer or soda while watching your favourite team’s game on the big screen with fellow fans, or join in on the day’s football-related events.
We really like this pub because it offers a great experience of the Blackpool community. If you visit on a quieter day, take some time to explore the pub’s impressive collection of Rangers F.C. memorabilia.
Bentley’s Fish & Chips Shop
Media from Visit Fylde Coast
Address: 131 Bond St, Blackpool FY4 1HG
Phone: 1253 346085
Pricing: £
Operating hours: Wednesday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Good to know: Has outdoor seating
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Menu
Stopping by Bentley’s Fish & Chips Shop is easy, as it’s just two blocks north of ICON and Pleasure Beach Resort. After enjoying the rides, you can relax with some delicious cod and crispy chips while people-watching along the streets of Blackpool.
Bentley’s has won multiple awards for its fish and chips, so don’t you dare try anything else (just joking, but seriously, try them!). Pair your meal with mushy peas and spice it up with some curry sauce instead of the usual gravy, and you’re all set!
If you’re not into greasy food, Bentley’s also offers a variety of savoury pies and puddings.
The Eating Inn
Media from The Eating Inn Steakhouse
Address: 463 Promenade, South Shore, Blackpool FY4 1AR
Phone: +1253 342910
Pricing: £££
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 AM to 9:00 PM
The Eating Inn may not be an actual inn for spending the night after tiring oneself out from the rides at ICON, but it certainly is home to some of the best steaks in Blackpool. It’s just a 10-minute ride from Pleasure Beach Resort, so it’s easy to drop by before or after your visit.
The Eating Inn specialises in 30-day-plus aged steaks—you can choose from various cuts like sirloin, ribeye, and rump with potatoes, mushrooms, or rocket. My personal favourite is the Steak Pie, paired with a starter of Chicken Liver Pate.
Café Rendezvous
Media from Fylde Cat
Address: 107 Bond St, Blackpool FY4 1EX
Phone: 1253 342141
Pricing: £
Operating hours: Daily – 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM
Good to know: Breakfast food; Cash-only; Value for money
Menu
Be sure to visit Café Rendezvous for breakfast and coffee before heading to ICON. You’ll need the fuel before tackling the hustle and bustle of Pleasure Beach Resort, especially if you’ve travelled far, like from Manchester.
The cafe is only open in the mornings, but that’s perfect because the breakfast food and drinks are great value for money.
We particularly love the Set Breakfast, which includes everything you need for a proper start to the day, including coffee. If you’re starving, go for the Bumper plate!
Overall, Café Rendezvous is a no-frills British breakfast spot that you should visit at least once.
West Coast Rock Cafe
Media from West Coast Rock Cafe
Address: 7 Abingdon St, Blackpool FY1 1DG
Phone: 1253 584238
Pricing: £
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
We were surprised to learn that West Coast Rock Cafe is a family-owned business (anyone else here have older parents against rock and roll?). This charming fact is just one of the many reasons it’s a perfect spot to visit after your ICON adventure in Blackpool.
West Coast Rock Cafe serves up American and Mexican favourites like sandwiches, burgers, and fajitas. We highly recommend trying the massive King Kong Burger, especially when paired with their milkshakes made from real ice cream.
And of course, the “rock” in West Coast Rock Cafe wouldn’t be complete without live music. It can get loud but it’s always good.
