Blackpool, Lancashire (July 2, 2024) American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) proudly presented Pleasure Beach Resort’s Big Dipper and Grand National roller coasters with ACE Roller Coaster Landmark plaques during a ceremony that drew dozens of coaster enthusiasts from across the globe to Blackpool. The designation as an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark is reserved for rides of historic significance. Only 48 roller coasters around the world have received ACE Roller Coaster Landmark status, and these two wooden roller coasters are the first in the United Kingdom to receive this accolade.

“It’s an honor to receive the ACE Roller Coaster Landmark plaques for both Big Dipper and Grand National,” said Amanda Thompson OBE, CEO of Pleasure Beach Resort. “These rides hold a special place in the hearts of our guests, and we’re proud that the importance of their heritage has been recognized. The blend of our modern, industry-leading rides like ICON and Valhalla, with these older, one-of-a-kind rides is an integral part of Pleasure Beach Resort’s identity and something that we believe truly sets us apart.”

American coaster designer John Miller engineered Big Dipper, which was his first roller coaster in Britain, utilizing his patented underfriction technology that allowed for more daring high-speed thrills. Philadelphia Toboggan Company provided the trains for the coaster, which opened to the public in August 1923. Big Dipper has continued to thrill riders for more than 100 years thanks to the continued care of the Pleasure Beach Resort team. The 19-meter tall Grand National opened in 1935 and is one of only two single-track wooden racing coasters still operating today. The ingeniously designed layout includes two 1,006-meter-long tracks that is one long continuous circuit.

ACE Communications Director Derek Perry shared that “ACE members are extremely excited that the Big Dipper and Grand National are now ACE Roller Coaster Landmarks. I can't think of two more deserving wooden coasters which reside in the same park. This unique duo has the perfect mix of exhilarating drops, thrills and classic charm. With two ACE Roller Coaster Landmarks and all the other fantastic attractions at the park, Pleasure Beach Resort is a must-visit destination for enthusiasts from around the world!”

About ACE: Founded in 1978, American Coaster Enthusiasts is a nonprofit, volunteer organization dedicated to the preservation, promotion, appreciation and safe enjoyment of roller coasters. With more than 7,500 members worldwide, ACE is the largest and longest-running enthusiast organization in the world. Members of ACE receive exclusive park benefits, newsletters, magazines and the opportunity to attend national, local and even international tours at parks. ACE has been prominently featured on various news programs and many cable networks such as the Travel Channel.

Andy Hygate, Operations Director, James Cox, Marketing Director, and Jo Poola, ACE Regional Rep, Europe

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