The Big One travel guide

The Big One, originally known as the Pepsi Max Big One, is an iconic roller coaster located at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. Opened on May 28, 1994, it was the tallest and steepest roller coaster in the world at the time, standing at an impressive height of 235 feet and featuring a first drop of 205 feet at an angle of 65 degrees. Designed by Arrow Dynamics, it quickly became a landmark attraction, drawing thrill-seekers from all over the globe.

The construction of The Big One was part of a significant investment by Blackpool Pleasure Beach to modernize and enhance its appeal. The ride's striking red and blue color scheme and its prominent location along the seafront make it easily recognizable. Although it has since been surpassed in height and speed by newer coasters, The Big One remains a beloved part of Blackpool's amusement offerings, known for its exhilarating ride experience and spectacular views of the Irish Sea.

Over the years, The Big One has undergone several refurbishments to ensure its safety and longevity. Its status as a pioneering roller coaster continues to attract enthusiasts and tourists, solidifying its place as a must-visit attraction in Blackpool.

The Big One in Blackpool, England, is renowned for its remarkable features that set it apart from other roller coasters. One of its most striking aspects is its towering height, which reaches 213 feet (65 meters), making it one of the tallest roller coasters in the UK. This impressive elevation not only provides thrilling drops but also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the stunning Blackpool coastline and the iconic Blackpool Tower.

The track of The Big One spans a lengthy 5,497 feet (1,675 meters), ensuring a ride duration that delivers an extended adrenaline rush. The coaster’s design includes dramatic inclines and sharp turns that create a dynamic and exhilarating experience. Additionally, the initial drop of The Big One is particularly notable, plunging riders at a steep angle that reaches speeds of up to 74 mph (119 km/h), making it one of the fastest rides in the country.

Another unique feature is the coaster’s engineering, which incorporates cutting-edge technology and innovative safety measures, ensuring both an exciting and secure ride. The Big One's striking red, white, and blue color scheme also adds to its visual appeal, making it an iconic landmark against the Blackpool skyline. These distinctive characteristics collectively contribute to The Big One's reputation as a must-ride attraction for thrill-seekers and roller coaster enthusiasts alike.

Standing at an impressive height of 213 feet, The Big One held the title of the world's tallest and steepest roller coaster when it opened in 1994. Though it no longer holds these records, it remains the tallest roller coaster in the UK. The ride offers unparalleled views of the Blackpool coastline, making the climb to the top as visually rewarding as the high-speed descent. Interestingly, the roller coaster was originally named 'Pepsi Max Big One' due to a sponsorship deal with PepsiCo, and you can still spot the iconic Pepsi Max logo on the ride's trains. The track length extends over a mile, providing a thrilling experience that lasts approximately three minutes. The Big One is also known for its unique 'twister' section, which adds unexpected twists and turns to the experience, keeping adrenaline junkies on their toes.

Located in the dynamic Blackpool, the popular The Big One is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Blackpool or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through England.

Blackpool is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Blackpool offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Blackpool and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable The Blackpool Tower, North Pier, Madame Tussauds Blackpool, Stanley Park, and Blackpool Model Village & Gardens.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Blackpool has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Blackpool, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in England!

The best time to explore The Big One at Blackpool Pleasure Beach is during the late spring and early autumn months. From May to early October, the weather is generally more pleasant, with warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for enjoying the thrilling experience of riding The Big One. During these months, you can also take advantage of extended park hours, allowing for more flexibility in planning your visit.

For those looking to avoid large crowds, weekdays in May, June, and September are particularly advantageous. The summer holiday season, especially July and August, sees higher visitor numbers, but the vibrant atmosphere and special events can add to the excitement. Early autumn, particularly September, offers a perfect balance with fewer crowds and still favorable weather conditions.

Special events, such as the annual Halloween festivities in October, provide unique opportunities to experience The Big One in a different light. To maximize your visit, consider purchasing tickets in advance and arriving early in the day to make the most of your time. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or a casual visitor, timing your trip right ensures an unforgettable experience at one of Blackpool's most iconic attractions.

The Big One is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Blackpool, England. If you're flying in, Manchester Airport is approximately 44 miles (70.7 km) away from Blackpool. From there, you can easily reach The Big One by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Blackpool, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach The Big One, which is located 2 miles (3.2 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to The Big One, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is 525, Ocean Boulevard, Blackpool FY4 1EZ, UK, England.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at The Big One!

Conveniently explore The Big One and plenty more captivating attractions in Blackpool by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to The Big One and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Blackpool has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting The Big One below.

Aside from The Big One, Blackpool is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Blackpool, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely The Blackpool Tower, North Pier, and Madame Tussauds Blackpool.

The Blackpool Tower is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Blackpool, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 16,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of The Blackpool Tower is The Blackpool Tower, Promenade, Blackpool FY1 4BJ, UK.

Another appreciated attraction in Blackpool is North Pier. Like The Blackpool Tower, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars among 10,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is North Pier, Promenade, Blackpool FY1 1NE, UK.

Madame Tussauds Blackpool is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Blackpool. This establishment and top attraction in Blackpool has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 8,700 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of 89 Promenade, Blackpool, Lancashire FY1 5AA, UK.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Blackpool below.