Imperial Hotel Blackpool

The location was handy, just a short walk from the centre, and some of the lounge and reception decor was nice. The bedrooms were a good size, and most staff were pleasant. But I wouldn’t recommend this hotel or call it good value. It feels old and needs repairs, and there was little atmosphere. We went for the all-inclusive weekend in January 2026. The food was poor compared with other places in the area. The same limited evening menu was served each night, and avoiding extras left little choice. One couple was charged £36 for extras on top of the £50 they’d paid. There were small portions and many extra charges, including £14 a day for parking. The entertainment was advertised as including dancing, but there was no dancing in the bright, carpeted side room. Only 8-10 people came each night. The singers said it was often like that, and you had to leave the room to get drinks. The restaurant was damp and dirty in places, with filthy heating vents and windows and peeling, damp paint in the bays.

The clean, spacious room was well organised and had a comfortable bed. Check-in went smoothly, and the staff were polite and welcoming. The hotel felt safe, clean and friendly, and good service made for a pleasant stay. I’d be happy to return.

The family suite was clean and tidy, and although it looked old-fashioned, it suited the age of the building. The staff we met were friendly and professional, especially Chris, who worked in the decadence. We had a good-value evening meal, nicely presented and to a good standard, and breakfast was good too. We stayed overnight with our two kids. The singers in the entertainment room beside the bar were good enough to enjoy, and the room had lots of original features. There’s also a games room with arcade games and a pool table next to it. You do have to pay to use them, but it’s a handy option if the kids aren’t interested in the singers. We enjoyed our stay and would come again.

The tram stop is right outside, and the town centre is only a short walk away, so it’s easy to get about without a car. There is some noise at night, as you’d expect in a lively seaside town, but it didn’t bother us. This is an old-fashioned hotel with lots of character, and staying here felt nostalgic, like stepping into a classic film from my youth, The Witches, Home Alone or an Agatha Christie story. The grand building may look a bit dated, but it was immaculately clean and comfortable. Staff were outstanding and couldn’t have done more to make our stay enjoyable. Room service was reasonably priced, and breakfast was delicious. If you want the feel of old Blackpool, this place is perfect. If you’re after a newly renovated chain hotel with no personality or complete silence, it may not suit you. It’s a rare kind of hotel that I thought no longer existed.