The British seaside is a place steeped in nostalgia, fish and chips, and the unmistakable scent of salt air. But in Blackpool, this classic coastal experience is elevated by a living piece of history: the iconic Blackpool Tramway. These two photos, taken on a beautiful summer's day in July 2018, perfectly encapsulate why this tram system is a national treasure.
A Legacy on Wheels
The Blackpool Tramway holds a distinction that few other transport systems in the world can claim. Opening in 1885, it is one of the oldest electric tramways in the world and remains the only operational first-generation tramway in the United Kingdom.
The beautiful double-decker trams featured in these images are not just tourist attractions; they are a direct link to the golden age of British seaside holidays.
The Star of the Show: The Green and Cream Double-Decker
The stunning tram visible in both photos, with its rich green lower deck and creamy-yellow upper half, is an unmistakable heritage tram. This livery and design instantly evoke the mid-20th century.
In this first picture, the tram dominates the frame, showcasing its magnificent design against a backdrop of classic seaside architecture—a red-fronted arcade and various shops, with the overhead wiring crisscrossing the summer sky. The text on the side, "BLACKPOOL TRANSPORT ILLUMINATION," suggests this tram is ready to participate in the legendary Blackpool Illuminations, a seasonal light festival that requires the very best of the heritage fleet.
The second picture offers a wider vista, capturing two heritage trams side-by-side near a curve in the track and the open expanse of the seaside. The juxtaposition of the historic vehicles against the contemporary street furniture and the brilliant blue sky over the sea highlights their enduring appeal.
The Atmosphere: July in Blackpool
These photos perfectly capture the quintessential feeling of a summer's day on the Fylde Coast:
The Coastal Light: The bright, slightly diffuse light suggests a day with a mix of sun and clouds—perfect weather for a seafront stroll or a tram ride. The shadows are sharp, emphasizing the geometry of the trams and the tracks.
The Environment: The tracks run parallel to the coast, with a strip of dry, coastal grass and gravel visible in the foreground of the first image, contrasting with the wide, modern pavement and the sea beyond in the second.
A Blend of Eras: Blackpool today features a mix of high-tech Bombardier Flexity2 trams (introduced in 2012) and the preserved Heritage Fleet you photographed. This dual system offers passengers the choice between a modern, smooth journey and a historic, rattling ride—a choice between efficiency and experience.
Why This Tramway Matters
The continued operation of the heritage fleet is a testament to dedication. Since 2012, the main line has been upgraded, but a selection of the older trams, like the ones captured, are maintained for special services, particularly during holidays and the Illuminations season.
Riding one of these historic vehicles is more than just transportation; it's a sensory experience:
The whine of the electric motor as it starts up.
The clatter and sway of the carriage on the rails.
The unique vantage point of the upper deck, offering unparalleled views of the Promenade, the Piers, and the Irish Sea.
These photographs freeze a moment in time: a classic Blackpool summer, where history rolls right alongside the modern world, inviting all who visit to hop aboard and experience a truly timeless trip.
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The pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.
