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Wandering Blackpool, One Pint at a Time
I visited a handful of Blackpool’s best spots in one relaxed wander, starting at the Tipsy Seagull, a bright, easy-going little pub where it was far too simple to settle in for longer than planned. Cask and Tap was next, with its smart metallic décor and excellent choice of beers, before a quick bus ride took me to the friendly, no-frills Cask in Layton. Rhythm & Brew Room added some proper history, Raleside brought a modern feel, and Shickers Tavern kept things ticking along with live music. A stroll through Christmas By The Sea added a dose of festive warmth, and I ended the day at Albert’s Ale — cosy, characterful, and the perfect finish.
Blackpool started off as a tiny coastal place, just a quiet stretch of sand and sea. Then in the 1700s people decided sea bathing was the next big thing, and suddenly everyone wanted a dip in Blackpool’s waves. Things really took off once the trains arrived in the 1800s, bringing crowds looking for a bit of fun. The Tower went up, the piers followed, and the Illuminations gave the town its famous sparkle. It’s had its ups and downs over the years, but Blackpool’s still that classic seaside spot where you can enjoy the fresh air, the lights, and a bit of simple, nostalgic cheer.
Tipsy Seagull
First up was to Tipsy Seagull Blackpool. The Tipsy Seagull on Lytham Road is pretty new to the scene. The place used to be an office — nothing exciting — until someone had the bright idea to turn it into a cosy little micropub. After a bit of work, it opened in November 2025 and started building its own vibe from day one. No long backstory, just a chilled spot with decent drinks, friendly faces, and the sort of atmosphere that makes you stay longer than you planned. It’s quickly become one of those places people wander into once and then keep popping back to.
Inside, the Tipsy Seagull has a really laid-back, tidy vibe. It’s bright and open, with big windows letting in loads of daylight, and a simple mix of round tables and comfy bench seating. The seagull cushions add a bit of fun, and the soft colours and brick-style wall keep it feeling cosy without trying too hard. It’s not fancy — just clean, relaxed, and the sort of place where you can plonk yourself down, have a drink, and feel comfortable straight away. Easy-going, friendly, and perfect for anyone who prefers a chill spot over anything loud or flashy.
On the bar a great line up of 4 cask ales and a range of changing craft keg options. I went with “Fell Rider” from Bowness Bay Brewing. A lovely, tasty and easy drinking English Pale Ale.
Cask and Tap
Next was onto Cask and Tap. Cask and Tap opened on 25th September 2020. Despite launching during the COVID-19 pandemic, it quickly established itself as a notable venue in the town’s pub scene. The establishment is independently operated and has been recognised in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide . Situated near the Winter Gardens, Cask & Tap offers a welcoming environment for customers.
Inside offers a minimalist yet inviting interior that focuses on comfort and conversation. The space is adorned with silver and bronze metallic embossed wallpaper on the walls and ceiling, creating a warm ambiance. Perimeter benches with integrated charging points provide ample seating, while beer barrel tables add a unique touch. The décor features vintage electrical test equipment repurposed as lighting fixtures, complemented by LED Edison-style bulbs that emit a cosy glow.
A brilliant choice on the bar of 5 cask ales, 10 keg beers and 9 ciders to select from. I had “Benjo Bironga” from Bang the Elephant Brewing Co. A super sour and tasty Brazillian Lime Gose.
Cask – Layton
A short bus ride brought me next to CASK Micropub – Layton. Cask Micropub opened in November 2019 at 9 Layton Road, Blackpool, in a building that had previous uses as a pet shop, and before that a greengrocer. The simple shop layout made it an easy place to turn into a cosy one-room pub. Since opening, Cask has settled in as a laid-back local spot and added a bit of life to this part of Layton Road, giving a long-used retail space a fresh purpose.
Inside feels laid-back and welcoming, with exposed brick walls, warm lights and a simple mix of stools and little tables scattered around. The big front windows keep it bright, while the bar area has that friendly, slightly cluttered charm with postcards, chalkboards and bits and pieces that give it character. The teal bar really stands out against the white tiles, and the whole place has an easy, unpretentious vibe — the kind of spot where you wander in for a quick drink and end up staying because it’s comfortable, relaxed and just a nice place to sit and chat.
On the bar a selection of 4 cask ales, 3 ciders and a range of craft keg lines to choose from. I opted to go with “Harlequin” from Bank Top Brewery. A tasty and well balanced English Pale Ale.
Rhythm & Brew Room
Rhythm & Brew Room is a historic pub renowned as the birthplace of Blackpool Football Club in 1887, when it was known as the Stanley Arms Hotel. Over the years, it has undergone several name changes, including the Blue Room and 1887 The Brew Room, before adopting its current name. After a significant renovation, the pub reopened on 15th December 2017, blending its rich heritage with a contemporary ambiance. In early 2024, the establishment underwent a rebranding, and its on-site brewery, previously known as West Coast Rock Brewery, was renamed Pool Brewing Co. Today, Rhythm & Brew Room continues to be a vibrant part of Blackpool’s community, offering live music events.
The interior features exposed brickwork, mahogany beams, and vintage fireplaces, creating a cosy yet spacious setting. Walls adorned with Blackpool FC memorabilia honour its heritage as the club’s birthplace. The pub offers varied seating areas, including window spots perfect for people-watching. A small stage hosts live music, while amenities like a pool table and board games enhance the welcoming vibe.
Drinks wise a selection of 6 cask ales, with 4 being from Pool Brewing Co, alongside a wide variety of keg options. Fridges at the back are full of cans in lots of different styles. Another sour beer in here, this time “Sugar Plum & Custard Danish” from Yonder Brewing. Fantastic flavours of vanilla custard and juicy plums.
Raleside Brewhouse & Darts Bar
Raleside Brewhouse & Darts Bar is a micropub in Blackpool, located opposite Blackpool North Station. It opened in October 2024 as a sister venue to the Shipwreck Brewhouse in Cleveleys. The name “Raleside” combines “rail” and “ale,” reflecting its proximity to the railway and its focus on beer. The venue features a live train departure board for travellers and offers facilities like a baggage drop-off service. It hosts live music events and provides outdoor seating. The pub collaborates with local breweries, including Fuzzy Duck, to offer a selection of beers.
The open-plan space features high ceilings and a variety of seating options, including leather sofas and tables equipped with QR codes for convenient ordering. A standout feature is the live train departure board at the bar, catering to travellers from the nearby Blackpool North Station. The venue includes a 60-square-metre mezzanine balcony, providing additional space for private functions and interactive darts entertainment. Downstairs, you can enjoy a quirky “service yard” area with a big-screen TV and a casual dining atmosphere. Outside, a covered seating area with high backs offers privacy and is divided into smoking and non-smoking sections.
On the bar a brilliant choice of cask ales alongside a great choice of keg beers. I went with “Sunwave” from Fierce Beer. A light, refreshing and citrusy Session Pale Ale.
Shickers Tavern
Shickers Tavern opened in January 2024 as the sister venue to the original Shickers Micropub in South Shore. The name “Shickers” derives from the Yiddish word for “drunk,” reflecting its convivial spirit. Founded by publican Liam Johnston, the tavern was designed to offer a larger, music-focused alternative to its predecessor. Unlike the Micropub, Shickers Tavern emphasises live music over televised sports, hosting performances primarily from smaller groups.
Inside offers a cosy, one-room setting with a warm and inviting atmosphere. It also features artwork of cultural icons such as Dean Martin and Tom Waits, created by artist Rick Hulme. Live music is a staple on Saturdays, complemented by an eclectic jukebox.
On the bar a choice of 1 cask ale. A flat cider and a range of keg options. I went with “Boddingtons” from J.W Lees. A lovely golden colour and a tasty creamy head, this beer is a blast from the past.
Christmas By The Sea
Christmas By The Sea in Blackpool has a really laid-back, cosy feel. The lights twinkle along the prom while the waves come in with that crisp winter sound. The Tower glows warmly, and you can pick up a proper hot chocolate or fresh doughnuts from the festive stalls as you have a wander. Families and mates stroll along the seafront, taking in the illuminations and the mix of sea air and Christmas tunes. It’s simple, cheerful, and a touch nostalgic — the sort of place where you can just enjoy the season without any fuss.
The bar has a warm, festive feel, like a proper Christmas market chalet that’s been brought to life. Inside, it’s all wooden beams, fairy lights, and huge red bows wrapped around garlands of pine, baubles, and pinecones. Above the crowd, cheeky Santa figures hang from the ceiling as if they’re climbing across the roof. The bar itself is busy and cheerful, serving beers, mulled wine, and hot chocolates under rows of hanging bottles and glowing signs. Outside, the place looks even more Christmassy, with reindeer figures, wreaths, and a giant bow over the entrance. It’s lively, cosy, and full of that wintry, fun Blackpool charm.
The bar includes a cask beer and a lager from local brewery Pool Brewing. I went with “Loose Change” from Pool Brewing. A fantastic Pale Ale hopped with Citra, Idaho 7, Idaho 7 Cryo and Nelson Sauvin. Some great flavours coming through from this beer.
Albert’s Ale Micropub
Last up was to Albert’s Ale Micropub. This was established in April 2017 by owners George Forrest and Jennie Ransome. Originally, they transformed the hotel’s dining room into a microbar to diversify their business and attract both locals and visitors year-round. The concept proved successful, leading to the bar’s relocation to the hotel’s basement, providing a dedicated space for customers.
It offers a cosy, quirky atmosphere with a surprisingly spacious interior. It features comfortable seating and eclectic décor, including vintage memorabilia and unique artwork. The venue also boasts a sun-trap beer garden, providing a pleasant outdoor space for customers to relax
On the bar a choice of 3 cask ales, alongside ciders, keg options and a wide range of bottles. I decided to go with “Alias” from Tatton Brewery. A well balanced and full of flavour English Bitter. Very enjoyable.
Micropub Adventures 