A traditional British seaside resort on the Lincolnshire coast, known for its sandy beach, pier, and the iconic Jolly Fisherman statue. Popular for family holidays since Victorian times.
Skegness, known locally as "Skeggy," is a seaside resort town on Lincolnshire's coast. Walk along the North Sea shoreline on the Blue Flag beach, ride the roller coasters at Botton's Pleasure Beach, or watch rescued seals at the Natureland Sanctuary. The town's Victorian pier extends 118 meters into the sea, filled with arcade games and food vendors, while Gibraltar Point nature reserve draws birdwatchers with its coastal wetlands and dunes.
Exploring the Beach and Seafront
The Blue Flag beach stretches for 1.6 kilometers along the coast, with clean sand and shallow waters. Take traditional donkey rides on the beach (£3 per ride) or walk the Victorian pier, where you'll find classic arcade games and food stalls. Along South Parade, Grand Parade, and North Parade, you'll pass rows of ice cream shops, arcades, and fish and chip restaurants.
Family Activities and Attractions
At Botton's Pleasure Beach, you can ride the Millennium roller coaster or try one of 30 other rides and attractions. Natureland Seal Sanctuary rehabilitates injured seals - you can watch feeding times at 11:30am and 3pm daily, and see penguins swim in their pool habitat. The Skegness Aquarium houses local North Sea species and tropical fish in its tanks. At Butlin's resort, swim in the water park or climb through the new Skypark outdoor playground, which opened in 2023.
Natural Spaces Around Skegness
Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve covers 1,000 acres of salt marsh and sand dunes south of town. Since 1949, researchers have recorded over 280 bird species at its observatory. Visit early morning to spot wading birds at low tide. The North Sea Observatory at Chapel Point, a modern glass building completed in 2018, gives clear views across the coastline and contains exhibits explaining local marine life.
Evening Entertainment
Watch comedy shows, musicals, and concerts at the 1,000-seat Embassy Theatre Complex throughout the year. The seafront comes alive after dark with bars and clubs, particularly on Grand Parade. Sample local drinks at Bateman's Brewery or try gin made with local botanicals at the Spirit of Skegness distillery.
Getting to Skegness
Trains depart every two hours from Nottingham (journey time: 2 hours) and Grantham along the Poacher Line. Book tickets in advance during July and August when trains fill quickly. In town, catch the Skegness Seasiders bus service - it runs every 10 minutes between the train station, beach, and main attractions.
Historical Development
The Earl of Scarborough transformed Skegness from a fishing village in 1873, creating a planned resort town with a grid system of streets, tree-lined walkways, and public gardens. When Billy Butlin opened his holiday camp in 1936, it marked the beginning of Skegness's popularity as an affordable vacation spot for British families.