A new exhibition about Liverpool comedy legend Ken Dodd has opened in Blackpool, nearly 60 miles from his hometown. Titled "Happiness! The Ken Dodd Exhibition", the display was officially opened at Showtown on Tuesday, June 23. It brings together highlights from the Museum of Liverpool's 2024 exhibition alongside previously unseen material from Blackpool's own Ken Dodd archive.
What the Exhibition Features
Visitors can explore the life and work of the Scouse comedian through archive photographs, original footage, colourful stage costumes, iconic props, and original puppets, including the famous Dicky Mint. The exhibition runs until Sunday, January 3, 2027, at Showtown on Bank Hey Street in Blackpool (FY1 4TQ). Entry is priced at £3 for adults aged 16 and over, while children can enter for free.
Official Opening Remarks
Speaking at the launch event, Spencer Phillips, Chairman of the Blackpool Heritage and Museum Trust, which operates Showtown, said: "Ken Dodd and Blackpool are a unique story. The most shows performed here by any star ever and the most hours on stage. I guess the second is no surprise to anybody. Ken Dodd loved Blackpool and Blackpool loved him and that’s why we are here today to celebrate Britain’s greatest comedian. Thank you Lady Dodd for sharing Sir Ken with us and for all your support for Showtown."
Other Attractions in Blackpool
Showtown is not the only attraction to unveil new updates and deals for families during the 2026 summer season. Blackpool Pleasure Beach, a major amusement park operating for 130 years, launched its latest ride, Aviktas, on May 21. This extreme "Gyro Swing" soars to 138 feet and swings up to 120 degrees above the coastline. The park also houses the UK's only Nickelodeon Land, featuring rides and facilities based on famous cartoon characters, along with 10 rollercoasters, five water rides, and five dark rides.
About a six-minute walk from Showtown is Madame Tussauds Blackpool, which features lifelike wax figures of UK showbiz stars, including soap actors, sporting legends, and the Royals. A figure of Canadian singer-songwriter Michael Bublé has recently been installed and will remain until Monday, August 31, to celebrate his performance at TK Maxx presents Lytham Festival on Friday, July 3.
Sandcastle Waterpark Blackpool, the UK's largest indoor waterpark with 18 slides and attractions, is celebrating its 40th anniversary by offering four tickets for £40 throughout June on weekdays. Booking details and terms are available on its website.
