Self catering nearish Blackpool

[graysquirrel]

Hi there. I live in South Wales and mostly tend to head south for UK holidays.
This year I want to surprise my husband with a trip to Blackpool as he has fond memories of visiting there as a child. However guessing it's more of a day trip/one nighter than holiday destination in itself for a family with small children. So as we'd be travelling a long way I'd like to find a base in easy travel distance. It'll be me, DH and 2 DDs 8 and 6.
We like cosy self catering cottages however thinking something along the lines of Center Parcs would be good to include swimming/activities onsite alongside trips out. Does anyone have any recommendations of places to stay and good places to visit all within reasonable travelling distance from Blackpool?

Robby Hall has a center Parcs feel to it. We go there often for days. They have holiday cottages, a hotel and spa. I think they have four restaurants a pool, starbucks, kids play park.

Sorry, that should say Ribby Hall.

Even though you want self catering, I’d recommend taking a look at the Big Blue Hotel. Free parking, great breakfasts, and family rooms with a separate children’s bunk bed area.
It backs on to the Pleasure Beach, which can be accessed through a gate, and is also across the road from the sea, with buses and trams stopping nearby, and the swimming pool with flumes, can’t remember what it’s called, only five minutes walk.
They do room rates including tickets to the Pleasure Beach.
Blackpool sea front has been done up and was looking good when we went last summer. A downside for us was finding decent places to eat as the pubs were full of hen and stag groups, but for a couple of days who can manage with McDonald’s or hotel room service.

I've heard Big Blue Hotel is good.
Went Blackpool last year with mates, want to go again this year with daughter.