Opera House & Winter Gardens

One of the UK's biggest theatres, the Winter Gardens Opera House, has seen a cast of thousands tread its boards since it first opened in 1939. With a 3,000 seat capacity, the splendour of the venue oozes sophistication and character as it boasts unforgettable performances year after year. The Winter Gardens venue which houses the Opera House, has entertained hoards of crowds in Blackpool in its collection of theatres, ballrooms, exhibition halls and public spaces. Since opening in 1878, the venue's aspirations have continued to mirror the development of Blackpool as a friendly seaside resort and as the town grew in popularity throughout the century, the venue's wide range of entertainment has developed with it. Hollywood stars such as Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland and Bob Hope have all graced the Opera House stage, and more recently, the likes of Shirley Bassey, Tom Jones, Ronan Keating, Peter Kay and Will Young have performed to sell-out audiences here. The Winter Gardens is open free to the public all year round and free displays can often be found in the stunning Floral Hall. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea at the Mazzei Café or a superb meal at the Empress Grill Room - the legendary Winter Gardens is a venue for everyone to enjoy.