Discover Blackpool through a unique blend of music and place. In this Destination Soundtrack, UK artist Mia Lily guides us through her hometown with a curated mix of locations and tracks that shaped her journey, creating a sonic city guide where rhythm and space intertwine. A rising artist known for her emotional, contrast-driven sound, Mia debuted on Shall Not Fade with Hydrated But Drunk, blending garage, trance, techno and house with subtle bass and dubstep influences. Music has been central to her life from childhood, shaped by a jazz-musician father, classical piano training and early DJ lessons from her older brother. Her eclectic style has led to performances at Boomtown, Parklife, Outlook and iconic venues like Roundhouse London, KOKO and Village Underground, alongside radio residencies on Balami and Foundation FM. Now, Mia takes us back to Blackpool to share the places that shaped her, each paired with a soundtrack deeply connected to her memories.

The Golden Mile

The Golden Mile is the nickname for the part of Blackpool promenade that stretches between North and South Pier. It’s what you think of when you think of Blackpool: arcades, amusements, lights, hen and stag dos, and rock shops. There’s always a buzz, especially in peak summer season.

Me and my best friend Nat used to drive down here when we were younger. We always had Nova by Burial and Four Tet on repeat. It’s a special one to me—such an iconic and beautiful track.

Soundtrack: Nova – Burial, Four Tet

Rossall Beach, Cleveleys

There’s a lovely little spot at the end of Rossall Beach where the rocks are built up. It’s quiet, peaceful and away from the hustle and bustle of central Blackpool. It’s northwest-facing, so you get the most amazing sunsets there.

It’s a little gem where you can see the beach stretch for miles and, on clear days, you can see the Lake District. Another one of my best friends lives at this spot—we spent a lot of time listening to dub techno here.

Soundtrack: Malaga – Reprise – Pablo Bolivar, Sensual Physics

The Galleon Bar

This is one of my favourite bars in Blackpool—definitely one for the locals. The décor is interesting with fun music memorabilia all over the walls, and everyone’s super welcoming with a real laid-back community feel.

Soundtrack: Bloodsport – Sneaker Pimps

Coral Island Arcade

The best arcade in Blackpool—and definitely the biggest. It’s what we call the “Las Vegas of the North.” You can play endless games here; it’s so much fun.

If you aren’t going to check out any other place in Blackpool, this is the one I’d recommend. I spent a lot of my youth here playing on the dance mats and House of the Dead. The music was always blaring—usually trance, hard house or scouse house.

Soundtrack: I Need Your Love – Clubwatchers

Skippool Creek, Thornton

Skippool Creek used to be an old trading port. Now, you can find a tonne of old derelict boats that just live on the docks. It’s a really interesting little spot to explore.

It’s beautiful for a warm summer’s day walk, or you can drive down in the evening. Another peaceful escape away from the centre of town.

Soundtrack: In the Interest of Time – Dan Mumberson, Reuben Holt

Central Pier

There are three piers in Blackpool, but this one is the most fun. It’s got all the rides and it’s the closest to town. There’s also a bar at the end where they’re always playing bangers.

There’s always a sound clash between the bar and the rides, but it’s always a mix of happy hardcore, trance and house—high energy for the rides!

Soundtrack: Losing Track of Time – DJ Biz

The Sand Dunes, St Annes

This is probably the nicest area of the beach. It’s the stretch between South Shore and St Annes, with golden dunes for miles. It’s super nice to pitch up here for the day if you want to spend some time at the beach. Perfect for a chilled ambient jazzy one.

Soundtrack: Bohemian Sunset – Jazzanova

The Illuminations

We can’t forget the Illuminations! It’s the iconic light festival that happens every year. It starts in September and usually runs until around Christmas. It’s an amazing display of lights stretching about 5 miles—you can walk or drive through them at night.

It’s got to be a dub techno track for this one.

Soundtrack: Starlight (Deepchord Mix) – Model 500

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