Grand Theatre

About the Grand Theatre Blackpool

The Grand Theatre is Blackpool’s oldest working theatre and one of the finest Victorian theatres in the country. It was designed by the celebrated theatre architect Frank Matcham and opened in 1894. Inside, you’ll find the gilded plasterwork, red velvet and horseshoe-shaped tiers he was famous for.

The building came close to being demolished in the 1970s. A campaign by local theatre lovers saved it, and it reopened as a full-time theatre in 1981. Today it is a Grade II* listed building and a registered charity, and it stages around 300 performances a year. These include touring plays and musicals, comedy, dance, music, children’s shows and its annual Christmas show.

Seating at the Grand

The Grand seats around 1,100 people across the Stalls, Dress Circle, Upper Circle and boxes. Because it’s a traditional Victorian auditorium, the tiers are steep and close to the stage, so even the upper levels feel intimate. Some seats at the sides and behind pillars have restricted views. Check the seating plan above before you book.

Getting to the Grand Theatre

• Address: 33 Church Street, Blackpool FY1 1HT
• On foot: the Grand is in the town centre, a couple of minutes from the Winter Gardens and about 5 minutes from Blackpool Tower and the promenade.
• By train: Blackpool North station is around a 10-minute walk.
• By tram: the nearest stop is North Pier, about 5 minutes’ walk.
• By car: use the town centre car parks, including the Houndshill Shopping Centre car park. Allow extra time during the Illuminations.

Hotels near the Grand Theatre

• The Ruskin Hotel: about a 5-minute walk on Albert Road, with its own cabaret lounge for after the show.
• Holiday Inn Blackpool: modern rooms next to Blackpool North station, about 6 minutes away.
• Imperial Hotel Blackpool: a historic 4-star on the North Promenade, about 25 minutes on foot or a short tram ride.
• Boulevard Hotel: for a luxury stay at Pleasure Beach, 15–20 minutes by tram.

Grand Theatre FAQs

What’s on at the Grand Theatre Blackpool?

See the full list of upcoming shows above, or browse What’s On in Blackpool for every venue.

Is the Grand Theatre the same as the Winter Gardens?

No. They are separate venues, but they’re only a couple of minutes’ walk apart. The Winter Gardens contains the Opera House, Empress Ballroom and Spanish Hall.

How many seats does the Grand Theatre have?

Around 1,100, across the Stalls, Dress Circle, Upper Circle and boxes.

Where can I eat before a show?

See our 10 best restaurants for a pre-theatre meal in Blackpool.