100 days of ICON at Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Thousands have flocked to Blackpool Pleasure Beach this summer to experience the UK’s ultimate new ride, ICON.

Since first propelling riders forward at high speeds in May, ICON has enjoyed 100 days of operating since the official launch and will be celebrating the anniversary this weekend (Saturday 1st September).

Over the course of the 100 days, a staggering 60,000 kilometres have been travelled on the £16.25 million rollercoaster, the equivalent distance from Blackpool to New Zealand three times.

Rider reviews show there is no sign of the ride’s popularity slowing down, with glowing feedback on both TripAdvisor and fan sites ranking ICON as the number one ride in the country. Factors contributing to this include the smooth running of the ride, which boasts three trains allowing for short waiting times in the queue.

Industry experts have supported public opinion, with Lawrence Roots, Editor of Theme Parks-UK sharing: “The quality of ICON is exceptional, from the stunning trains with eye-catching lights, impressive station and epic soundtrack. It’s fantastic to see Blackpool Pleasure Beach make such a huge investment in to the theme park, and they have created a new ride which people will travel from far and wide to experience.”

Raving about their experience on TripAdvisor, one fan said: “What an amazing ride! I would give it six-stars if I could. Definitely the best rollercoaster in the UK without any doubt.” Another recorded: “The new double-launch coaster ICON was amazing (best rollercoaster in the country) and had a short queue all day because they were running three trains with great efficiency.”

The praise comes as no surprise, as ICON propels thrill seekers at accelerations as fast as a Formula 1 car not just once – but twice. Reaching heights of 88.5ft and interacting with 15 other rides at the famous park, ICON is the most interactive rollercoaster in the world.

Commenting on the success of the new ride, Amanda Thompson OBE and Managing Director at Blackpool Pleasure Beach said: “What an iconic start for our iconic rollercoaster! We couldn’t be more thrilled, ICON’s presence on park alone has elevated our visitors’ experience, but then people ride it and they are blown away. These first 100 days have been a whirlwind of fun and excitement and we’re so looking forward to celebrating the anniversary with visitors this weekend!”

To celebrate the end of summer and what has been an iconic start for the amusement park’s new rollercoaster, Blackpool Pleasure Beach has introduced a special autumn price promotion inviting thrill seekers to visit the park for just £23 when booking wristbands online, simply enter ICON100. The special offer will run from 3rd September – 19th October.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach is inviting rollercoaster enthusiasts to join in the anniversary fun and share their images of ICON to the Pleasure Beach Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages, using the hashtag #ICON100. The top 100 images will be selected to feature in an ICON100 gallery, with the most standout shot earning a free return visit to the park for four.

For further information on Blackpool Pleasure Beach and for wristband bookings click here