The Big One

The Big One is a true icon of Blackpool, almost as famous as the tower itself and visible for miles around. This was the tallest, steepest and fastest rollercoaster in the world when it was opened as the Pepsi Max Big One in 1994 and it remains the tallest in the UK at a whopping 213 feet.

There are generally two trains running on this ride at any one time and each train consists of five cars with six passengers in each, therefore 30 passengers can enjoy the thrills on each train. This ride may be almost 30 years old but it remains the most popular attraction at the Pleasure Beach and it certainly lives up to its reputation as one of the most exciting rollercoasters on the planet.

Once all passengers are safely in their seats, a siren signals the start of the ride and the train heads down a small dip before proceeding through a tunnel, whereupon the train is hauled up to a height of 213 feet, this in itself being one of the scariest parts of the ride. Once at the top, the noise of the tracks stops and in complete silence the train suddenly launches down the first drop of 205 feet at 65 degrees. Riders experience up to 3.5G here and this is by far the best part of the ride for thrill seekers.

Nevertheless there are many more turns, peaks and troughs to come before the train finally makes a short ascent into the final brake run into the station.

Our Thrill Verdict

This must be without a doubt the best ride at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, the whole experience offering the rider a full-on adrenaline rush from beginning to end. It’s clear to see why no many Pleasure Beach visitors head straight to the Big One upon entering the park and that is why we give this ride our maximum Thrill Rating of 5 Stars.