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Written by Robert Clarke - 09 Sep 2007
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Location notes
The southern end of the Blackpool and Fleetwood Tramway, the only regular public tramway in the UK not using light rail vehicles (Manchester, Sheffield, Croydon and Nottingham use light rail vehicles). However, plans to modernise the tramway will see this status end, with light rail vehicles being planned.
Railway type and traffic
The Blackpool and Fleetwood tramway operates both double and single deck trams, in both crew operated, and Driver only operated mode. Tickets are bought on the tram, except when using a travel card.
Environment
Situated on the coast, this area is quite exposed. In the summer, it is glorious, but in the autumn, it can be nippy. This is also the southernmost point for the illuminations, and so always be vigilant, as pickpockets, whilst not in great numbers in Blackpool and Fylde, can be there, during this busy period.
Road directions
Blackpool is well signposted on all routes, but to reach Starr Gate, follow signs for Squires Gate, or Blackpool Airport. Once there, look for signs for Lytham. Starr Gate is at the bottom end of Squires Gate Way/Lane.

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Blackpool Tramway, Starr Gate map co-ordinates
Parking
Suitable parking is available in nearby housing estates, a few minutes walk away. Do park carefully, so as to not block driveways etc. Parking is not permitted on the promenade itself.
Public transport
The tram line terminates here, and runs right round in a loop to resume the journey north.
Bus services are provided by both Stagecoach in Lancashire whilst the tramway is operated by Blackpool transport, who also trade as Metro Coastlines for bus services . Stagecoach service 68 stops in Squires Gate Lane, Metro coastlines services 2, 7 and 11 stopping here as well.

IMPORTANT: Metro coastline saver tickets for 1 3 5 and 7 days travel are not permitted on Stagecoach services. Stagecoach Megariders are not valid on Metro Coastlines or the tram.

The nearest train station is Squires Gate. From the station, turn left, head down to the traffic lights, and cross carefully, till you reach the tram stop.

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Amenities
The toilets are situated in the island at the tram track loop, and require 20p. The toilets will only accept 20p, no other denomination of coin.
A small shop is available across the traffic lights. Further up Squires gate lane is a BP petrol station. Other amenities are in central Blackpool or central St Annes.
Accommodation
A short walk away is a Pointins holiday camp! For all accommodation details, go to Blackpool Tourism or Blackpool Local and look for tourism.
Sun Compass
Sun Compass using Suncalc by brought to you by Vladimir Agafonkin:
It might be necessary to adjust the time to suit your visit, this link should open with the current day.
Blackpool Tramway, Starr Gate

Googly map
Streetmap links
Blackpool Tramway, Starr Gate general view map
Blackpool Tramway, Starr Gate close up map

Windows Local Live Link - image quality may vary
Blackpool Tramway, Starr Gate



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Photographic notes
The fence is low enough for you to get pictures and videos of trams, and they go slow enough for you to get time to prepare your shot. If you are using video, remember that the promenade is a main thoroughfare through Blackpool, and Starr Gate junction is a busy junction, so traffic noise is inevitable.
Blackpool Airport is near here (it is further up Squires Gate Lane), so aircraft noise may affect videos.


General views - All photographs © Robert Clarke unless otherwise stated
Fig 1 - Looking west


Fig 1 - Looking west


Disclaimer
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All information contained within this is site is © Trainspots. The images used on this site remain the property of the original photographer, as credited at the top of the page, and are used with their kind permission.

The information on these pages is supplied for the benefit of railway enthusiasts who carry out a harmless hobby, and through the medium of photography and video, actually promote the railway industry. Railway enthusiasts can also act as eyes and ears against railway vandalism, and as such should surely be encouraged to do so by the supply of adequate information such as is found on this website.

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Advice as to the locations general environment is given as a guide on each page. This information is a GUIDE only. ALWAYS be careful with your equipment, Trainspots can not be held responsible for your personal security. Avoid leaving your property on display for all to see, be aware of your surroundings at all times. There are, sadly, people who will not think twice about trying to steal your equipment.

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