The circus hasn’t used animal since 1990 but until then they were a prominent part of circus life, routines and entertainment. The Tower Circus was famous for its elephants and they were often seen being exercised on the beach and seafront. It was an awesome sight. Deep beneath the circus ring, the stables and pens used to house the creatures still remain due to the building’s listed status. These days it makes for uncomfortable viewing, in some of the pictures at least, but the elephants are a key part of our Circus’ legacy.

1. Blackpool Tower Circus Elephants
Elephants in convoy as they arrive at the Tower Circus | National World

2. Tower Circus Elephants
Layla a Tower Circus Elephant with her trainer on Blackpool Beach in 1984 | National World


4. Blackpool Tower Circus Elephants
An elephant arrived in Blackpool to start life at Blackpool Tower Circus | National World
