There have been a few different examples of arches through the years, including one outside Blackpool Pleasure Beach which was eventually dismantled for safety reasons in the 80s. But it’s the one at Starr Gate which evokes memories. These photos celebrate the iconic structures which are the gateway to Blackpool where everyone is ‘Always Welcome’
1. Always Welcome
This was how the Welcome Arch looked in 1991 Photo: National World
2. Blackpool's Welcome Arch
The Welcome Arch gets Blackpool's 1965 Illuminations off to a glowing start Photo: National World
3. Always Welcome
This was Blackpool Pleasure Beach's own welcome sign in 1982 Photo: National World
4. Always Welcome
This is a very early photo of the welcome arch. Difficult to date it - 1930s maybe? Photo: National World
5. Always Welcome
Blackpool promenade 'Welcome Arch' in 1997 Photo: John Atkinson
6. Always Welcome
In 1988, the arch outside the Pleasure Beach, was dismantled because it was unsafe. Talks were ongoing to help finance another one Photo: National World