Heritage Trams

The Heritage Trams are as much a part of the Blackpool seaside experience as the Piers and seaside rock. For decades they’ve been an attraction in their own right and a way to travel the promenade from end to end.

Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours

Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours provided an experience like no other. To ride along the world famous Blackpool Tramway aboard a piece of moving history along the fantastic seafront of this world famous seaside resort.

Many of these original trams are over 80 years old – and it’s a unique experience. Blackpool was the only place in the UK where you could ride a Heritage Tram still travelling on the line it was originally built for! All of the heritage Tramcars, are, by definition, old! They need tender loving care, maintenance, and in many cases restoration. Many have moved to different places, joined different collections and had different owners.

Tram Gallery

Thanks to a fleet of volunteer drivers, the Heritage Trams operated on the promenade throughout much of the year. Different trams from the Heritage fleet ran Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours on different days. On beautiful sunny days the open-top tram cars would come out too!

Did you know? Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours consistently got excellent reviews on TripAdvisor, including a 2022 Travellers’ Choice Award.

Preserving History

The harsh winds and salty air plays havoc with the trams metalwork. They need constant maintenance and repairs to maintain their immaculate good looks. Before returning to service each one underwent a programme of restoration in the workshops at the Rigby Road Depot. Look at this tram undergoing full refurbishment –

2026: Ambitious Plans for Heritage Trams Remain on Track

In late April 2026 news broke across social media that Blackpool’s Heritage Trams had reached the end of the line. The Fylde Coast erupted into a collective wail of dismay. But a press release from Blackpool Transport on Tuesday 28 April has provided reassurance and clarity on what happens next. The press release says (word for word)…

A bold vision for the future of Blackpool’s famous heritage trams is taking shape. That’s ahead of the launch of summer tours featuring several vintage vehicles. The ambitious plans include a permanent home for the historic fleet. Plus regular trips on the seafront by some of the heritage trams.

Blackpool Transport has a new Managing Director following the retirement of Jane Cole. Lea Harrison says the revitalisation of heritage operations is one of his top priorities. Along with finding a permanent home for an improved heritage tram attraction.

“Despite the fantastic efforts of everyone involved with the existing Tramtown site, a recent survey by an independent structural engineer found the building is unsafe and beyond repair,” he explained.

“However, I‘d like to categorically state that this is not the end of the line for heritage trams in Blackpool. While it’s sad that we need to say goodbye to the existing building, we also have an opportunity to build a sustainable future for a top tourist attraction featuring our world-famous fleet.

“In the short-term, this may include ‘pop-up’ displays of vintage trams until funding is in place for a fitting home for the entire fleet. Plans for regular heritage tours over the summer months will be announced shortly.”

Heritage Tram Tours Coming Up Soon

In the meantime, you can expect to see vintage trams in operation during a series of private tours in May.

• The famous ‘Balloon’ tram (number 717) will be running on Sunday May 3. It’s part of a tour organised by Fylde Tramway Society
• The Bolton 66 tram will be operated by its owners during a visit by the Electric Railroaders Association from New York on Friday, May 8.
• Tram 717 will return to service on Thursday, May 21. It’s trip is organised by Trinity Hospice during national Dementia Action Week.

“Blackpool is as famous for its historic trams as it is for its tower and the Pleasure Beach and we are fully committed to preserving the town’s rich tramway heritage for future generations to enjoy,” Lea said.

“Over the next few months, we will be working closely with the local authority, other stakeholders and partners on more detailed proposals, and we’re looking forward to making further announcements in due course,” he added.

2025: Heritage Tram Workshop Attraction

Blackpool Tramtown, the home of Blackpool’s heritage trams, launched a new season with a whole new tour experience. In 2025 the tram engineering works opened within an exhibition hall experience giving visitors the freedom and time to walk around the exhibition and see the history of Blackpool’s rich tram heritage.

Accessing Heritage

Paul Galley, Tramtown volunteer coordinator said “I am delighted that Tramtown has survived all the challenges thrown at it and it’s stronger as a result. Through the hard work of our amazing volunteers this new visitor experience will not only save Blackpool’s heritage trams it will help regenerate the wider Bloomfield area.”

Bryan Lindop is head of heritage at Blackpool Transport. He said “Being able to open the workshop to the public is something I have always desired but never been able to achieve until now. Initially, due to the limited amount of time available since we took over the workshop, we will open it as it is. As we go along displays will be added to, gradually evolving, improving and rotating some of the exhibits on a regular basis. Delivering this interim opportunity will provide an insightful flavour of just a small part of what we aim to deliver in the future.”

Jane Cole, managing director of Blackpool Transport contributed, “Creating access to as much of our heritage as possible during the interim period in which the Tramtown development is in the funding and delivery stages is key.  This will enable the public to enjoy the uniqueness of our collections, and it enables us to present a meaningful precursor of the full scheme which is yet to come. The Blackpool Tram Works is phase 1 of our heritage plan whilst we endeavour to secure funding to get our heritage trams back in operation.”

2024: The Future of Blackpool’s Heritage Trams

Sadly, on 6 December 2024 a shock announcement came out. For the foreseeable future there will be no more Heritage Tram Tours. But it’s NOT all bad news! On 10 December, Blackpool Transport Managing Director Jane Cole made another statement.

Heritage Trams are Safe!

After the statement released by Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours, Jane Cole issued the following statement addressing concerns regarding the future of the Heritage Tram operation. She says:

“As Managing Director of Blackpool Transport, I would like to reach out to everyone who has expressed their concerns about the future of the Heritage Tram operation. I am the biggest advocate for the preservation and future of our beautiful assets.  

“I can confirm that the future of our heritage trams is safe and we aim to have them back on the Promenade next year. However, before that can happen there are a number of complex operational issues that need to be addressed. While we work on these, we have made the difficult decision to suspend operations.  We apologise for the disappointment and inconvenience this has caused to our passengers but it is the right decision at this time.   

“Recently we have been able to run the heritage trams out of Starr Gate depot which does not interfere with the ongoing works at Rigby Road. We are considering how this could provide a solution to some of the challenges we are currently facing. It is also important to clarify that the suspension of tram tours does not affect plans for the Rigby Road tram shed. In fact, it highlights the importance of bringing our vision for Tramtown to life to preserve Blackpool’s heritage. 

“Blackpool Transport Services and Blackpool Council remain committed to continue working with all our volunteers, supporters and stakeholders during this pause in the operational running of the heritage fleet.” 

Suspension of Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours

In a statement on their website they say –

“Following a thorough review, we have made the difficult decision to suspend our Heritage Tram Tours. Operating the Heritage Trams alongside our modern fleet has become increasingly challenging. Issues such as depot space, tram movements, general safety and maintenance conflicts are making it difficult to continue running the service effectively.

“This decision was not taken lightly. But we believe it is the most practical step to support the evolving needs of our business and maintain the overall efficiency of our operations. As part of our efforts to future-proof and safely grow our core tram network following the North Station extension, we are introducing advanced safety systems. Including the Obstacle Detection Assistance System (ODAS) and the Collision and Overspeed Monitoring and Prevention Assistance System (COMPASS). These technologies are essential to maintaining safety. Especially during busy times such as the summer, illuminations and festive seasons. The systems also allow us to improve operational efficiency, and ensure the sustainability of the network.

“The Heritage Trams are a cherished part of Blackpool’s history, and we fully recognise their importance to the community. However, ensuring the ongoing safety and sustainability of the service has become increasingly complex. This pause provides an opportunity to reflect on the role of Heritage trams within a modernised and safe tramway network.

“By reassessing their operation, we aim to explore new ways to honour Blackpool’s rich transport heritage. At the same time maintaining our commitment to a safe, efficient, and future-focused service. We are dedicated to finding innovative opportunities to honour and showcase Blackpool’s iconic tramway history. We thank you for your understanding as we work towards this.”

2023: Tramtown Blackpool – a new visitor attraction

The tram depot at Rigby Road in which Tramtown is located was one of only three remaining working locations in the world. It featured around 40 trams, some up to 120 years old. And in 2023 ambitious plans begin to transform into a brand new museum.

It’s wonderful news! Blackpool Tramtown, the heritage tram depot, secured £800,000 to start work on Phase One of a new four-phase vision to create a brand new visitor attraction for the town.

We went along to the launch event on Saturday 25 February 2023, to hear about the exciting Four Phase Plans –

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Bryan Lindop is head of heritage at Blackpool Transport. He said “Replacing our roof is the first step on a journey that will secure the future for our famous trams in their rightful home. It underpins our strategy to develop a long-term vision for a visitor attraction. The roof is the most expensive single item on our To Do List. And it’s also the most essential to keep out the elements, protect the fleet and make the remaining repairs less onerous.

“The current building is in vital need of renovation, but houses a fleet of more than 35 vintage trams. First of all, the roof needs replacing to stop water from coming in. Then the building needs regenerating, to give better structural integrity and protect the trams from the torrent of Fylde Coast wind and rain.”

Keeping the Heritage Trams on the Tracks!

Until recent years there wasn’t a long-term intention for the transport operator to continue running Blackpool’s Heritage Trams. Renovation of the tramway and introduction of modern, light rail trams in 2012 replaced the operation of the old trams.

It’s only the dedication of volunteers and collaborative working with partners across the resort that’s enabled them to continue to run, delighting residents and visitors to Blackpool’s seafront.

2021: Vintage Tram renamed ‘Reginald Dixon’ after Blackpool Tower Organist

Published August 2021

A historic Blackpool Tram has been named after Reginald Dixon. He was best known for his time spent as organist at the Blackpool Tower, holding the position in the famous Ballroom for 40 years.

Reg, as he was commonly known, was a household name during his years at the Blackpool Tower. Live broadcasts of his performances were aired each week during the summer season for many years on the BBC Light Programme, now Radio 2.

The renaming took place at 2pm on Friday 6^th August 2021. Reginald Dixon’s daughter, Jill Steel performed the honours, along with other members of the family. After the ceremony close to North Pier, an inaugural tram journey celebrated the occasion. The Blackpool Heritage Tram team acknowledged Reginald Dixon for his contribution to the promotion of Blackpool in times gone by.

His signature tune was ‘Oh I Do Like to be Beside the Seaside’. It’s now synonymous with Blackpool and its rich entertainment history. Reginald played the mighty Wurlitzer – which was built to his specification – for 40 years. He’s an icon of the famous ballroom to this day. He was much loved and admired for his talent and unique style of play. It’s a very fitting tribute in memory of this wonderful man.

2020: Queen’s Award for Heritage Trams

In June 2020, Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours was honoured with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. It’s the highest award that a UK voluntary group can receive.

The volunteers who operate Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours enable the protection, conservation and operation of a unique fleet of vintage tramcars on the tramway for which they were built. Their work widens public access to a rich part of the nation’s heritage. They’re also:

• developing a wide variety of skills,
• creating a major contribution to the welfare of their local community
• and fulfilling the purposes of wellbeing, learning and education.

Did you know? That Blackpool is one of only two tramways in the world to operate double-deck trams?

History of the Heritage Trams

The Blackpool Electric Tramway Company opened their service on 29 September 1885, originally running from Cocker Street to South Shore. A little later, the Blackpool and Fleetwood tramroad opened a line between Blackpool and Fleetwood, which operated until 1920.

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/ctSWBvyzSIs” title=”Blackpool Promenade in 1900″ description=”Blackpool Promenade in 1900″ /]

Then in 1920, Blackpool Corporation took over the whole tramroad. It included eight miles of track and three depots, two in Fleetwood and one in Bispham. The small Bold Street Depot in Fleetwood was closed and a loop constructed at Fleetwood Ferry. Blackpool Corporation also gained all 41 trams from the tramroad. The Blackpool tramway has operated ever since and is the last surviving first-generation tramway in the UK.

• More about the early history of the tramway, from Wikipedia

Tramway Upgrade

Many, many years later, following a four year, £100m upgrade, on 3 April 2012 the brand new Flexcity Bombardier trams were launched.

Their very first passenger journey along the Fylde Coast marked the start of a brand new era of passenger transport for residents and visitors. They were introduced because the old tram cars didn’t comply with modern access rules for disabled passengers.

Marvellous as the new trams are, the Heritage Trams are loved by all – a quintessential image of Blackpool. For some they are a reminder of childhood, while others hold a strong interest and fascination for the engineering expertise which created them.

• More here about the history of Blackpool and the growth of the town

History of Heritage Tram Car Box 40

It was on loan to Blackpool for more than 20 years, then it went back home. On 4 March 2019 the Heritage Tram team bid a fond farewell to Blackpool & Fleetwood “Box” car 40.

It had been on loan to Blackpool Transport from the National Tramway Museum at Crich for over 20 years.

Box Car 40 has been an important part of the Heritage Fleet, since the formation of Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours in 2012. It’s always looked very at home on the Promenade and its native Tramroad – for which it was built in 1914.

However, its time in Blackpool sadly came to an end. Box Car 40 made a visit to the Beamish Museum in Durham before returning to Crich later in 2019 and becoming a permanent part of their collection.

Looking After Box Car 40 in Blackpool

It was overhauled in 2014, and 40 was treated to further remedial work to arrest deterioration and to preserve a smart appearance for this popular tram.

The floor was repainted throughout – that task was undertaken by volunteers from Blackpool Civic Trust.

The Preston McGuire bogies were steam cleaned and repainted by the dedicated staff at Heritage Trams. All brass work received a good polish thanks to Fleet Presentation Coordinator, Bradley Jones and his team. Then new historical tramcar information sheets were installed (see below for transcription).

These provide a brief history of the tram and acknowledge the co-operation and great relationship of Blackpool Heritage Trams with the Tramway Museum Society. They are the owners of Box 40, and their generosity allowed the tram to remain in Blackpool for so long.

More About Box Car 40

Box Car 40 was built in 1914 by the United Electric Car Co of Preston, for the Blackpool & Fleetwood Tramroad. Operating a route from Blackpool North Station to Fleetwood which was separate from the Corporation Network until they merged in 1920. By then they’d amassed a fleet of 41 trams.

15 were enclosed ‘box’ saloons for year round use and 26 open sided cars for summer work. No 40 was one of the last four Box cars. The original 11 dated from 1898/9. Following the Corporation takeover of the Tramroad in 1920, 40 was renumbered 114 in the Blackpool series. But it stayed at the former Tramroad depot at Bispham and continued to operate its usual route.

The Box Cars later appeared on the Promenade and even on Lytham Road once newer cars took over the Fleetwood route. The modernisation of the fleet in the 1930’s saw off the Tramroad fleet. 114 was later withdrawn in October 1937.

Escaping the Scrapyard

Unlike all of its sisters, which were scrapped by 1939, 114 was retained as a works car. It was numbered 5 and initially used by track repair gangs and later by the overhead line crews.

In March 1960 it was restored to passenger condition for the 75th anniversary of the tramway. It operated again from June 1960 until January 1963. In October 1963 it moved to the National Tramway Museum at Crich in Derbyshire for preservation and operated there in 1964/5. It later moved to the Heaton Park Tramway in Manchester and ran there from 1982 to 1986.

Tramcar 40 Back in Blackpool

40 returned to Blackpool from 1988 to 1991. It was back again on long term loan from 1995. In 2014 it received a substantial overhaul with work undertaken both at Crich and in Blackpool. Its owners are the Tramway Museum Society.

Tram Car No 31

Visit Fylde Coast contributor and transport enthusiast Barrie C Woods snapped Tram Car No 31 in April 2016. It was back in Blackpool for a short while, from it’s long term loan to Beamish. It was swapped over with the Standard No. 147 ‘Michael Airey’, which went to operate at Beamish instead.

No. 31 was built by the Midland Railway Carriage & Wagon Co. Ltd in 1901 as an open-top 4-wheeler. It was rebuilt in 1918, lengthened and had two 4-wheel bogies fitted under it. A roof was added in 1928, then in 1934 it was relegated to the engineering department and the roof removed to give access to overhead line work.

It was renumbered No.4. Then later in the 1960s a further renumbering saw it emerge as No. 754. Later it was fully restored to its 1918 condition. It’s been on long term loan, operating at Beamish since 1984 with the exception of the Blackpool tram centenary in 1998. Afterwards it returned to the north-east museum.

Question for Heritage Tram Enthusiasts

Here’s a question for all you local transport and history enthusiasts from Barre C Woods. He says: “This was the cafe in the old Bonny Street Market and it looks awfully like a vintage tram or railway carriage, or is it just done for effect? If it is a tram then which one?”

If you’ve got any ideas please leave a comment at the foot of this article.

Interesting Links

• There’s more about the history of Blackpool (in brief!) here
• Read Nick Moores history of Blackpool – it’s the most comprehensive guide of EVERYTHING to do with the history of Blackpool