Blackpool Big Dipper: 17 nostalgic pictures show iconic Blackpool Pleasure Beach rollercoaster on its 100th birthday
By Claire Lark
Published 17th Mar 2023, 04:55 BST
Updated 23rd Aug 2023, 08:39 BST
The Big Dipper has created a century of memories for millions of people.
With it’s ‘onion’ or ‘teardrop’ toppers, as they have been affectionately known through the years, the Big Dipper has become symbolic to thrill-seeking rollercoaster enthusiasts – it’s the one everyone knows. As Blackpool Pleasure Beach opens it’s gates for the 2023 season, the Big Dipper will take centre stage with celebrations planned for it’s actual anniversary on August 23. These pictures, courtesy of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, have been rarely seen, they are a real treat and show the rollercoaster from construction right through the decades.
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This was September 1923 when it had just opened. Incredible to see how desolate it was, hardly anything else around Photo: Blackpool Pleasure Beach Archives
The Big Dipper is the oldest continually operating rollercoaster in the UK. This picture is from 1984 - the riders are right at the top Photo: Blackpool Pleasure Beach Archives
Another brilliant retro scene from 1984. The Big Dipper has a capacity of 840 riders per hour and has a ride duration of three minutes Photo: Blackpool Pleasure Beach Archives