Blackpool Pleasure Beach

The UK's biggest tourist attraction, Europe's scariest rollercoasters, the world's finest collection of antique thrill rides – there isn't a superlative left for Blackpool's peerless amusement park. Down near South Pier (a tram ride from the centre), it's an all-day extravaganza of 125 rides and attractions, not to mention Nickolodeon Land, a separate area based on characters and shows from the children's network, from SpongeBob to the Rugrats. Adrenaline-junkies know all about the gut-churning white-knuckle rides in the park – the Big One (the UK's tallest, fastest rollercoaster), Valhalla (the world's biggest indoor dark ride), the wicked loop-the-loop Revolution, Infusion (world's first rollercoaster suspended entirely over water), and Avalanche (the UK's only bob-sled coaster). But you can limber up with rides on the fabulous vintage "woodies", from the original Big Dipper to the twin-track Grand National, dating from the 1920s and 1930s; and if you've got any energy left after that lot there are scores more family rides and activities, video arcades, an ice rink, Flintstones-style bowling alley and much, much more. Pleasure Beach shows bring a splash of Vegas to Lancashire, from magic and circus performers to the annual Hot Ice spectacular – you need to book in advance for most of these (at an extra cost), but some shows and displays are included for free in the general admission. There are also a lot of fast-food places to eat, though our favourites are the more refined Oyster Bar and the calm of The Grill.