The Mandalay

The scent of sea salt drifts through the Blackpool air here, even when you're tucked inside after a day on the prom.

The Mandalay offers a rare combination for the Lancashire coast — traditional guest house rooms alongside camping pods for those who want four walls but with a hint of the outdoors. It's a good fit for couples or small families who fancy Blackpool's lights and beaches without the caravan park bustle, or dog owners (worth asking about your hound before booking) who want a base that feels more intimate than the seafront giants. You're in Blackpool proper, so the Pleasure Beach, the Tower, and miles of sand are all part of the deal.

Facilities aren't spelled out in detail, so it's worth checking what's included with your pitch or room when you book. Campfires are a maybe — ask when you arrive. Open all year, which makes it handy for winter illuminations or blustery off-season walks along the front when the crowds have gone home.