Riding the Rails of History on the Blackpool Tramway

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

Step Back in Time in Saltburn-by-the-Sea

There's something magical about a town that feels suspended in time, and Saltburn-by-the-Sea is one of them. Nestled on the North Yorkshire coast, this Victorian-era gem offers a nostalgic escape from the modern world, inviting you to wander through its history. Looking at these images, you can almost feel the sea spray and hear the echoes of generations of visitors enjoying the coast.

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The Pier and Promenade

The heart of Saltburn's coastal charm is its magnificent pier. Stretching out into the North Sea, it's a testament to Victorian engineering and a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. The old photos show it as a lively hub, with people dressed in period clothing enjoying the fresh sea air. This sense of timeless enjoyment remains today. The long wooden walkway, with its sturdy iron railings, feels like a bridge connecting the past and the present. It’s a wonderful place to watch the waves crash or simply take in the vast horizon.

The promenade below the pier is just as captivating. In these photos, you can see people gathering, strolling, and enjoying the lively atmosphere with the pier buildings and cliffs as a dramatic backdrop. It's a reminder of a bygone era when seaside towns were the ultimate destination for leisure.

The Saltburn Tramway

One of the most unique features of Saltburn is its Cliff Tramway. This funicular railway, seen in several of the images, is a marvel in itself. It was built to transport visitors from the town's elegant clifftop gardens down to the promenade and pier below. The tramway's charming little cabins look like they belong in a fairy tale, and its steep descent down the cliff face offers incredible views of the coast. It’s not just a ride; it’s an experience that tells the story of the town’s development as a Victorian resort.

A Tale of Two Cliffs

The pictures also beautifully capture the stunning geology of the area. On one side, you have the dramatic, crumbling slopes that the tramway descends, with the grand Zetland Hotel perched at the top like a crown. On the other, the imposing Hunt Cliff stands tall, its sheer face a striking contrast to the gentle curves of the beach.

Below Hunt Cliff, you can see the cluster of buildings that make up the Ship Inn. With its long history as a smugglers' haunt, the inn and the surrounding cottages feel rugged and authentic, perfectly blending into the landscape of the bay.

Saltburn-by-the-Sea is more than just a place; it's a journey. From the bustling pier and the historic tramway to the dramatic cliffs and the quaint cottages, every corner has a story to tell. It’s a place to slow down, breathe in the salty air, and appreciate a slice of coastal history.

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