Blackpool Tower and Ballroom, Blackpool (must see)

Inspired by the Eiffel Tower of Paris, the Blackpool Tower opened in Blackpool, England, in 1894. At its opening, it was the tallest structure in the British Empire. It is 518 feet above street level and is among the tallest non-free-standing towers in the world.

The Blackpool Tower stands over the Tower Buildings, an entertainment complex housing the Tower, Tower Circus, Tower Ballroom, and Roof Gardens. Lancashire architects James Maxwell and Charles Tuke designed the tower and supervised the laying of the cornerstone in 1891. A time capsule was buried underneath the stone.

The tower ironwork was renovated in 1924. Hydraulic lifts to the top were electrified in 1992. A "Walk of Faith" glass floor panel was installed in 1998. So far, no cracks. The top of the tower is called the Blackpool Tower Eye. It is the highest observation deck in Northwest England. A giant model of King Kong graced the Tower in 1984.

The Tower Ballroom replaced the original ballroom, called the Tower Pavilion, in 1899. It was designed by Frank Matcham, who also created the Blackpool Grand Theatre. In competition with the Empress Ballroom of the Winter Gardens, the ballroom floor is 120 feet by 102 feet of mahogany, oak, and walnut blocks.

Two stories of ornately decorated logs line both sides of the Ballroom. Garlanded classic figures dance over the top of the stage, and an inscription from Shakespeare's poem, Venus and Adonis, reads: "Bid me discourse, I will enchant thine ear." The vaulted ceiling is lavishly frescoed. Crystal chandeliers line the hall.

The Ballroom has always been a popular venue for big bands. The Empress Orchestra has been resident there since 2005. The Ballroom, along with the Tower, the Circus, and the Roof Garden, was designated a Grade I listed building in 1973.