Blackpool Pleasure Beach has announced plans to host a mass gathering to coincide with the eclipse next week, extending its opening hours for the day as part of the event. The UK's deepest solar eclipse since 2015 will occur on Wednesday evening (August 12), with up to 91.3 per cent of the Sun expected to be covered by the Moon.
Timing and Viewing
The eclipse will begin at 6.13pm BST, reaching its maximum at 7.10pm before ending at 8.03pm. Because it takes place close to sunset, the Sun will sit low above the west-northwest horizon, making an open viewing spot essential.
There will be events across the country to coincide with the eclipse, with Blackpool's Pleasure Beach Resort set to host a large-scale viewing on the park's overpass beside the 'Wallace & Gromit's Thrill-O-Matic' ride.
Free Glasses and Offers
Pleasure Beach will be handing out 1,000 free solar eclipse glasses to those in attendance in what is anticipated to be one of the largest eclipse gatherings in the North West. Every Wednesday throughout August, the Pleasure Beach is also staying open later until 8pm, meaning guests will be able to catch the display until closing time. Tickets on the day start from £18, with those entering later in the day able to take advantage of a two-for-one offer of two tickets and unlimited ride access for £60 from 4pm.
CEO's Invitation
Amanda Thompson OBE, CEO of Pleasure Beach Resort, said: “Eclipses of this kind are a rarity, so we want to give our guests a truly unique experience to remember the occasion by. Few places can offer this experience surrounded by so much excitement, so we’d love for all guests to join us on our overpass and celebrate the special occasion together.”
Recent Attraction and Historical Context
Earlier this year, the Pleasure Beach opened its new Aviktas ride, which cost a reported £8.25m. The ride reaches a massive height of 138 feet and swings riders at a 120-degree angle as their legs dangle over the coastline.
According to Royal Museums Greenwich, this month's partial solar eclipse will offer the most coverage seen from the UK in 27 years when a total solar eclipse crossed parts of Cornwall and Devon back in August 1999.
Safety Warning
People have also been warned against the use of fake solar glasses, which could potentially put people's eyesight at risk, and have been told to be cautious if glasses are unusually cheap, have no branding or safety markings, or are sold by unknown marketplace sellers with little trading history.
