Shopping in Blackpool

While in Blackpool, why not make like the locals and do a spot of shopping at a market? Not only are they a great way to get a feel for the place, you could bag a bargain at the same time.

Abingdon Street Market is a popular indoor market that’s been held in the same, beautiful building since 1928. There are some delicious local delights to sample, but it’s not just food on offer. There are leather goods, jewellery, make-up and clothes - and even a tattoo parlour. It’s open Monday to Saturday each week, and even on Sundays in autumn when the Illuminations are on. The market’s just a 35-minute seafront stroll from our Blackpool Beach hotel, too.

With a magical atmosphere, The Regent on Church Street is full to the rafters with antiques, craft, collectibles and all things vintage. Located in a grade II-listed former cinema (and one of Blackpool’s oldest buildings) it’s great for a rummage through all the kitsch memorabilia on offer - and hipsters will love the selection of vintage clothes and vinyl. If a trip to the tea room with its china plates, cups and saucers doesn’t take you back in time, head upstairs to the refurbished cinema to really scratch that retro itch. It’s recently opened and shows a fabulous programme of black and white favourites. The Regent is open seven days a week from 10 am.

If you love malls, Blackpool doesn’t disappoint. Make a day of it by heading out of town to a whole outlet village crammed with brands, or just pop into the shopping centre in town.

A leisurely 50-minute tram ride (or a 20-minute drive in the car) takes you to Affinity Lancashire, an outlet village with 45 clothing and lifestyle stores. Set in a beautiful marina, expect big high street names such as Marks & Spencer, Gap and Next, offering huge discounts - some as much as 60% off what you’d pay in the normal store. When you’ve grabbed enough bargains, there’s a nautical-themed outdoor play area so the kids can let off steam and plenty of places to sit and watch the boats and get a bit of fresh sea air. Our Premier Inn hotel near Affinity Lancashire is only five miles away.

With a good variety of shops all under one gleaming roof, the Houndshill Shopping Centre is in the centre of Blackpool - just a few minutes’ walk from the Tower. Bright, modern and a very decent size for a town centre, there’s parking onsite for 700 cars and once inside you’ll find big brands including Debenhams, Primark, Next, H&M and River Island. When you’re all shopped out, head upstairs to the food court and you’ll find plenty of fast food options, plus sit-down meals at Bella Italia and Prezzo. Phone addicts will be pleased to learn there’s free Wi-Fi throughout.

While Blackpool might not be the first town that springs to mind when you think of designer shopping, there are a few boutiques - you just need to know where to look.

Ted Baker, Barbour and Paul Smith are all on offer at Blueberries - a designer clothing store that’s been in Blackpool for 30 years. Label lovers flock to its Topping Street location, with three floors full of sleek suits and designer denim. Besides the classic labels, you’ll find new designers such as Jeff Brussels (a women's wear line from Belgium) and Rag Yard (an eclectic mix of vintage pieces).

Mankind on Church Street used to stock just Pringle clothes. But after a luxurious refit, the store is now home to the best in designer menswear. Expect to find gorgeous pieces from Ralph Lauren and Lacoste, as well as Paul & Shark and EA7.