Meet at 23 David Street, Worsley Hall (Wigan). Gather the group — Gallus, Yona, Sandbar, Ocellus, Smolder, Silverstream, Thorax, Ember, Gruff, Seaspray and Rutherford — and confirm Percy the dog's crate, food and paperwork. Quick introductions and hand luggage check before loading into the minibus.
Load luggage and crates into the minibus; Paul (the contact who arranged our rooms at Bell Vista Hotel) meets the group to confirm arrival details. Make sure Percy is settled in his crate with a familiar blanket and water bowl.
Departure from Worsley — head for the motorway. Enjoy a relaxed drive north-west toward Blackpool; driver will plan a short comfort stop en route.
Comfort stop at Lancaster Services (or similar motorway services). Stretch legs, let Percy have a supervised walk, and use facilities. Grab tea, coffee and pastries for the road if desired.
Back on the road along the M6/M55 corridor toward Blackpool. Paul confirms ETA with the Bell Vista Hotel and double-checks parking and pet arrangements for rooms 4 and 5/6.
Arrive in Blackpool; drive along the promenade to get a first glimpse of the seafront and the Blackpool Tower. Quick photo stop (weather permitting) before heading to the hotel to check in.
Check in at Bell Vista Hotel on the promenade. Meet reception, confirm rooms (your room 4 with Percy in crate, rooms 5 and 6 for the younger guests and leaders) and arrange any extra bedding or pet-friendly supplies.
Unpack essentials, settle Percy into room 4 and give him a short walk on the nearby promenade. Freshen up and prepare for a light lunch.
Lunch at The Promenade Café (near Bell Vista) — classic British fare, sandwiches and dog-friendly outdoor seating so Percy can join briefly. Try a hearty ploughman's or fishcake special.
Walk along the promenade toward North Pier and Blackpool Tower. Take in the festive decorations for Christmas by the Sea 2026 and note the location of the main market stalls and rides clustered near the Tower.
Explore the Christmas market on the promenade near Blackpool Tower. Browse stalls offering crafts, festive foods, hot drinks and seasonal gifts — bigger than last year with new artisan booths and a larger wheel of light display.
Visit the Blackpool Tower (entrance at the Tower building). Depending on interest, take the lift to the Tower Eye for panoramic views and photos of the decorated seafront; dogs are usually allowed in outdoor areas but check with staff for indoor rules.
Grab hot chocolate or mulled cider at one of the market stalls. Let Percy have a short, calm walk on the esplanade while the group samples local sweet treats — churros, roasted chestnuts or a festive mince pie.
Return to Bell Vista Hotel to rest and prepare for the evening. Give Percy some downtime in his crate and a chance to settle before heading back out for the lights and rides.
Meet back in the hotel lobby; Paul will confirm evening plans and any restaurant reservations. Collect jackets, festive hats, and ensure Percy has a last pre-evening walk and water.
Stroll back to the Christmas by the Sea area near the Tower as dusk falls. The lights come alive and rides glow — the fair this year is larger with new family rides and an expanded craft alley.
Early evening ride time for those who want to try the Ferris wheel, carousel or family roller coaster near the promenade. Stalls selling street food are open — try Blackpool rock, toasted sandwiches or gourmet hot dogs.
Dinner at The Cottage Restaurant (or nearby pet-friendly pub such as The Prom), chosen for a warm, festive menu and group seating. Reserve a space in advance and confirm Percy can stay comfortable in the hotel room during dinner if indoor dog rules apply.
Return to the promenade for the Christmas light display and live street performances. Enjoy the bigger-than-last-year spectacle with seasonal music, illuminated installations and a larger parade route near the Tower.
Hot drinks and final stroll along the seafront. Pick up any last-minute gifts from market stalls and take group photos against the lit-up Tower and promenade.
Head back to Bell Vista Hotel. Settle Percy in his crate for the night; debrief with the group about tomorrow's plans and confirm breakfast time and any transport requirements for the return or further exploring.
Wind down in the hotel lounge or rooms. Leaders review the day, check everyone (and Percy) is comfortable, and finalize plans for Saturday if staying another night or for departure.
Lights out / quiet time at Bell Vista Hotel. Ensure Percy has water and is settled for the night; staff can be contacted for any late requests.