A day out in Skegness – by Lindsay Cowie, YellowBelle

One of the things I love about living in North East Lincolnshire is the ease of getting away for a day out; within just an hour’s drive, you can reach the cities of Lincoln and Hull, and the ever popular seaside resort of Skegness.

Skegness is quite a traditional resort in some ways; you can relax on the sandy beach with an ice-cream and paddle in the tide, but there is also a whole host of attractions that children and adults can enjoy.

Butlins

I think it is safe to say everybody is aware of the ‘Red Coats’, Butlins’ resorts has to be one of the most famous British holiday destinations! I only vaguely remember visiting as a child, and after walking into the giant white tents, I could completely understand why thousands of families stay there every year. There are rides, amusements, shops, a cinema, a spa, tennis courts, aeriel adventures, stages, puppet shows, go karts, pubs, restaurants and a private entrance to the beach – to name a few.

We had a walk around the pavilion and took in the enormity of it all; the shop fronts look incredible! Then we explored the arcades and the fairground rides for the little one before deciding on a place to eat lunch. There are restaurants (some open for breakfast and dinner only), fast food, a lounge and a coffee shop, but we decided on the pub, The Sun & Moon, for a light lunch.

On our way back to the Pavilion, we had to have a look at what is possibly the biggest attraction in Butlins Skegness, Splash Waterworld. It is certainly worth spending some of your visit in here; there are water slides (one of the tallest in Europe!), flumes, a wave pool, outdoor rapids and a whirlpool, as well as paddling areas for younger children. Next time I visit, I will definitely be bringing my swimwear (the water was calling my name!)

Skegness Natureland Seal Sanctuary

Located in the resort on North Parade is Skegness Natureland Seal Sanctuary, a rescue centre and hospital for seal pups that become stranded and injured. While you’re here, you can see the seals and watch their feeding time…

There are also alpacas who were busy feeding when we stopped by, a mini aquarium, goats, rabbits and guinea pigs, so there are plenty of animals to keep the children entertained. Of course, the sanctuary accepts donations to help the seals and the upkeep of the centre.

Skegness Beach

A trip to Skegness wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the beach.

You can walk from one end of the beach to the other within a few minutes, but there is still plenty of room to relax in the sunshine and build a sandcastle or two – plus, the little ones can stop for a donkey ride along the way. The promenade is full of attractions; the Embassy Theatre, bowling, crazy golf, fairground rides, arcades, a lazy river and a brand new aquarium. And of course, you have to stop for some traditional seaside treats; donuts, slushies (with or without alcohol!), and ice-cream.

This just had to be done…And don’t forget to say hello to the Jolly Fisherman on your way past!

There really is an abundance of things to do in Skegness, which makes it ideal for a sunny day out.

*All words, images and opinions are my own.