Who Is the Jolly Fisherman? – The Icon of Skegness

If you’ve ever spent time in Skegness, you’ve almost certainly seen him - a cheerful fisherman in a striped jumper, splashing through the waves with a big smile on his face. The Skegness Jolly Fisherman isn’t just a mascot; he’s an enduring symbol of the town’s seaside spirit and one of the most recognisable figures in British coastal tourism.

The Birth of the Jolly Fisherman

The Jolly Fisherman Skegness character first appeared in 1908 on a railway poster created by artist John Hassall. The design was commissioned by the Great Northern Railway as part of a campaign to encourage visitors to travel by train to the Lincolnshire coast. He is a popular mascot in Skegness town's history.

The poster featured the happy fisherman leaping across the sand beneath the slogan “Skegness is SO Bracing.” The phrase highlighted the town’s fresh sea air and invigorating coastal climate — a message that quickly became famous nationwide. Together, the fisherman and the slogan created one of the most iconic tourism adverts in history.

A Symbol of Skegness Identity

More than a century later, the Jolly Fisherman Skegness remains central to the town’s identity. His image can be found on postcards, murals, souvenirs, and signs all around the resort. For many visitors, seeing the Jolly Fisherman feels like a warm welcome — a reminder that they’ve arrived somewhere cheerful, nostalgic, and proudly traditional.

Even the slogan “Skegness is so bracing” still captures the town’s character perfectly: a place known for its brisk sea breezes, classic British charm, and fun-loving spirit.

The Jolly Fisherman Statue in Skegness

Today, you can meet the famous fisherman in person. The Jolly Fisherman statue Skegness stands proudly near the seafront, celebrating over a century of seaside history. It’s a popular photo spot for families and visitors, honouring the figure who helped put Skegness on the map.

The statue reflects everything that makes the town special — friendliness, fun, and a touch of old-fashioned seaside humour. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning after years away, it’s hard not to smile back at the Jolly Fisherman.

Why the Jolly Fisherman Still Matters

While other resorts have changed their image over time, Skegness has embraced its roots. The Jolly Fisherman stands as a symbol of what people love about the town: traditional seaside fun, a welcoming community, and that unmistakable “bracing” coastal air.

So next time you’re in Skegness, take a stroll along the promenade, breathe in the fresh sea breeze, and give a nod to the Jolly Fisherman — the cheerful character who’s been spreading smiles for more than a hundred years.

After visiting the Jolly Fisherman statue, check out more things to do nearby.