Have you spotted HMS Blackpool Tram on duty? This one’s the illuminated tram shaped like a boat! HMS Blackpool honours the Royal Navy boat of the same name.
- HMS Blackpool (the ship) was a Whitby-class or Type 12 anti-submarine frigate of the Royal Navy. There were two versions of HMS Blackpool, the first launched by Harland and Woolf on 4 July 1940 in Govan.
- Frigate HMS Blackpool 736 is an illuminated tram based loosely on the same shape and named in its honour. It’s built on the underframe of pantograph car 170.
Built in 1965 it was originally sponsored by the Navy. Sitting high up in his cab, the driver had a restricted view so it was fitted with a loud air-horn. That made everyone on the promenade jump!
With wear and tear and a need for maintenance it was withdrawn in 2001. It made a very welcome return for the 2004 Lights.
A Rebuilt HMS Blackpool Tram
In 2003 HMS Blackpool was lucky enough to have a rebuild.
The weather is brutal along Blackpool seafront. A combination of salty water and sand, and the wind blowing it into every crack, meant all but the prow was scrapped. Repairs were also made to the underframe, and it was strengthened.
It was redesigned with a new body frame and roof more like the actual style of the Frigate ship, based more on the design of HMS Beaver. Although there is a door on one side, full controls were added at both ends. Carrying 64 passengers it’s still a very popular feature on the promenade today.
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Illuminated Heritage Tram Tours
HMS Blackpool is still in service today and you can enjoy a ride on it with one of the special Illuminated Heritage Tram Tours.
These Tram Tours ONLY depart from the special tram stop at the loop opposite the front entrance to Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
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