The presenter and her co-host Claudia Winkleman were seen fronting the BBC One dance show live from the Tower Ballroom
Tess Daly has spoken about the ‘only downside’ to the latest Strictly Come Dancing weekend as she was among the stars to hit Blackpool for the show’s annual special.
The presenter and her co-host, Claudia Winkleman, were seen fronting the BBC One dance show live on Saturday night (November 22) from the seaside town’s famous Tower Ballroom.
It’s an annual tradition for the popular programme to head up north for one weekend only, having first made the move during the third ever episode of Strictly, which was then hosted by Tess and the late Sir Bruce Forsyth, back in May 2004, and later the 2005 final.
But ahead of their return to the Tower Ballroom, Tess reminded fans that it would be the last time she and Claudia would be hosting the show from the iconic location, having announced their shock plans to leave the show at the end of the current series last month.
Following her and Claudia’s arrival to prepare for the latest live show, Tess took to social media on Friday (November 21) to reflect on their trips to Blackpool over the years with a string of photos, including late entertainer Bruce.
Alongside the post, the Stockport-born star shared: “Today we are back in Blackpool for our Strictly rehearsals ahead of tomorrow’s live show, and I’ve been reflecting on all the good times we’ve experienced here as our time on the show comes to a close.
“Blackpool holds such a special place in my heart, not only for the unforgettable shows presenting alongside Bruce and Claudia for so many years, but also for the warm Northern welcome we always receive here at the iconic home of ballroom in the UK.
“We’ve had so many wonderful times here: unforgettable dances, fish and chips every year without fail, and an audience that always welcomes us with open arms. I’ve been looking back on some precious Blackpool memories, and I can’t wait for you to join us for tomorrow’s show- I’ve seen a sneak peek at our couples routines and they promise to be absolutely brilliant. Let’s go out with a bang, Blackpool!”
It was then, following an epic week nine of Strictly’s 2025 series, which saw no couple eliminated following the sad withdrawal of La Voix from the competition due to injury, that Tess returned to social media to reflect on her latest – and last – jaunt to Blackpool with the beloved show.
Sharing a string of pictures, including of her and La Voix in the ballroom, as well as a picture of her and Claudia celebrating the big weekend in ‘I [heart] Blackpool’ tees, on Instagram, the Stockport-born star said: “Blackpool you didn’t disappoint!
“From the warmest of welcomes to some truly incredible routines from our brilliant couples; the only downside – having to bid the fondest of farewells to @lavoixtheshow.She’ll be very much missed by us all xx.”
Drag performer La Voix, who was competing alongside professional dancer Aljaz Skorjanec, was quick to respond to the post, writing in the comments section: “Love you!” Meanwhile, It Takes Two host Janette Manrara gushed: “Well done ladies! An amazing weekend at Blackpool. And you’re drinking my favourite…. #CafePatron.”
Strictly 2025 contestant Amber Davies also shared: “We love you [red heart emojis],” while professional dancers Johannes Radebe and Lauren Oakley also commented strings of heart emojis underneath the post.
