Blackpool - long celebrated as one of the UK’s best seaside towns - is grappling with a significant tourism blow despite record-breaking footfall figures.

       While millions continue to flock to its iconic attractions, including the Pleasure Beach, Blackpool Tower, and world-class events, a growing trend of day trips over overnight stays is causing concern among hoteliers and business owners.

       Claire Smith, president of Stay Blackpool, described 2024 as "one of its most challenging seasons ever," citing the cost-of-living crisis as a major factor.

       "Visitor numbers have been great, but they haven’t been staying over," she told BBC Lancashire.

       Rising costs for gas, electricity, food and staff wages, combined with national insurance increases, have taken a toll on the resort’s accommodation sector.

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       Blackpool’s Promenade footfall surged in summer 2024, with a peak of 6.8 million visitors in July, up 41% compared to 2023.

       Additionally, Blackpool remains a leader among UK destinations, attracting 20 million visitors annually, more than any other seaside resort.

       Its diverse appeal, from thrilling amusement parks to cultural heritage events, continues to draw crowds. The newly opened Showtown museum, celebrating Blackpool’s rich entertainment history, has been a standout addition.

       Free events such as the Blackpool Air Show, World Fireworks Championships, and Christmas by the Sea drew massive crowds, helping cafes, restaurants, and other day-trip-focused businesses thrive.

       Yet hotels, once the backbone of Blackpool's economy, have felt the squeeze.

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       “Higher visitor numbers feed the cafes and restaurants, but it hasn’t been good for hotels,” Smith admitted.

       Many restaurants, struggling with rising energy and staffing costs, have reduced their operating hours from seven to five days a week. “We’ve seen plenty of visitors, but they’re not staying overnight.”

       Rising costs have forced some restaurants to cut back from seven to five days of operation, and the availability of cheap European city breaks continues to lure potential overnight tourists elsewhere.

       The growing reliance on day-trippers presents a significant challenge. Day visitors bring in vital income for restaurants, cafes and attractions, but they don’t sustain the hotels, theaters and nightlife that have long defined Blackpool’s character.

       Without a return to overnight tourism, many businesses could struggle to survive.