The Cavendish

The clatter of trams and the salt tang of the Irish Sea drift inland from Blackpool's famous promenade — this is seaside stays with a proper bed, not pegs and guy ropes.

The Cavendish suits couples after a theatre weekend, families wanting a base for the Pleasure Beach and Tower, or anyone who fancies the coast without canvas. With both guest house rooms and camping pods on offer, you can pick your comfort level — four walls and a full English, or something a bit more adventurous under your own roof. Dogs are welcome by arrangement, so worth asking ahead if you're bringing one. Coarse anglers might appreciate that Four Seasons Fishery is a short drive inland if you fancy a morning session before hitting the Golden Mile.

Onsite facilities aren't specified, but expect guest house standards in the main building. Campfires need checking on arrival if you're in a pod. It's open year-round, so works for winter illuminations as well as summer buckets-and-spades. The vibe is Blackpool through and through — lively, nostalgic, unpretentious seaside with everything that entails.