A seaside day out in Oldham

Final preparations are underway for one of the most eagerly anticipated events of the year as 'Blackpool Comes to Oldham Fun Park' prepares to open its doors in the town for three weeks, including the February Half Term holidays. 

Opening from Friday, February 14, the annual event is set to be one of the most spectacular yet with over 25 thrilling rides and attractions. 

As always there’s also entertainment undercover too with the mini beach in an air-conditioned marquee - so even if it is a little chilly outside, children can build the perfect sandcastle or Mum and Dad can sit back and relax with a hot drink, coffee and cake while the thrill seekers head outside to sample an amazing array of attractions.

This year the rides that will dominate the skyline are more spectacular than ever and great value too, especially when you will be able to enjoy unlimited rides for the purchase of a wristband.

Set to cause the biggest stir though will be the arrival of the ride ‘No Limits!’ Standing at more than 20m high, its cars take multiple twists and turns as it spins 360 degrees skywards! 

Blackpool Comes to Oldham wouldn’t be the same without its iconic Vue Giant Wheel, which is back once again this year.

Standing at more than 35 metres high the attraction will offer some amazing views for miles around, while there will also be the return of the much-loved ‘King Swing’ and for the first time the thrilling ‘Extreme’! 

As well as the Wheel and the Booster there’s plenty more rides for families to enjoy with the thrilling ‘Twister’, the ‘Snow Storm’ which simulates a high speed Bob Sleigh run plus the ever popular Waltzer’s. 

For the kids there’s the Wiggly Worm Kids Coaster, Bungee Trampolines, the Balloon Race and the Race O Rama. 

And what visit to Blackpool Comes to Oldham would be complete without testing the driving skills on one of Europe’s largest Dodgem tracks! 

Both Thursdays (February 20 and 27) are sure to be popular with the families as they are ‘Family Fun Daywws’ when you can get one free child wristband with every full fare paying adult. Vouchers for this are available from shops or by download on the blackpoolcomesto website!

There’s plenty of free entertainment too with free donkey rides on Saturday, February 15 and Sunday, February 16, plus Saturday, February 22 and Sunday, February 23 and children’s entertainment in the heated food court on selected days. 

Blackpool Comes to Oldham runs from Friday, February 14, from 1pm to 8.30pm until Sunday, March 1 with two sessions 1pm to 5pm and 5pm to 8.30pm on all weekends and during the school holidays. Exceptions are Thursday, February 27 and Friday, February 28, 5-8.30pm with once  session. (Blackpool Comes to Oldham is closed Monday 24th February to Wednesday 26th February).

Entrance is by wristband only. Anyone wanting further details of sessions, prices and a complete list of rides and attractions can also visit the official Blackpool Comes to Oldham website: blackpoolcomesto.com. 

The event meanwhile couldn’t be easier to get to right alongside the Hollinwood Metrolink station on Hollinwood Avenue (OL9 7LG), just off Manchester Road and junction 22 of the M60.

Free parking and on-site security will also be provided.