Things to Do at Butlin’s Skegness (and Nearby Attractions)
If you’re heading to Butlin’s Skegness, you’re in for a packed itinerary of fun, relaxation, and entertainment for all ages. From thrilling water slides and live stage shows to family-friendly activities and seasonal events, there’s something happening every day at the resort. Whether you’re visiting for a short break or a week-long stay, here’s everything you need to know about the best things to do at Butlin’s Skegness — and what’s worth exploring nearby.
On-Site Butlin's Entertainment and Events
Entertainment is at the heart of every Butlin’s holiday, and the Skegness resort takes it seriously. The main hub for live shows and performances is Studio 36, where guests can enjoy spectacular productions featuring music, comedy, dance, and special guest appearances. Throughout the year, the entertainment schedule includes everything from live tribute acts and interactive children’s shows to big-name performers during special themed weekends.
If you’re visiting during an ESF football weekend or one of the family festival breaks, you’ll find even more happening around the resort, with tournaments, outdoor games, and exclusive entertainment designed for kids and teens. For those wanting to know exactly “what’s on” during their stay, Butlin’s Skegness releases a detailed entertainment guide each week, which can be accessed through the app or reception.
Splash Waterworld and Sky Park
No visit to Butlin’s Skegness would be complete without a day at Splash Waterworld - the resort’s enormous indoor water park. It’s home to flumes, rapids, a lazy river, wave pool, and shallow areas designed especially for younger swimmers. The subtropical temperatures make it perfect year-round, whether you’re looking to unwind or race your family down the fast slides.
Outside, you’ll find Sky Park, Butlin’s newest outdoor play zone and one of the highlights for children. Built to encourage active play and family bonding, it features climbing towers, swings, slides, and sensory zones. There’s even a zip line for those brave enough to soar through the air. Sky Park is free to access for all guests and provides the perfect way to burn off energy in the fresh Skegness sea air.
Kids’ Clubs and Family Activities
Families are at the core of the Butlin’s experience, and the Skegness resort offers a huge range of activities designed to keep children entertained from morning till night. The Little Stars Club caters to toddlers and preschoolers with messy play, music sessions, and storytime adventures, while older children can take part in sports coaching, circus skills workshops, and creative arts sessions.
Parents can join in the fun or take advantage of a few quiet hours while the kids are busy. There are also family game shows, arts & crafts areas, and indoor play zones, ensuring there’s never a dull moment even on rainy days. Evening entertainment often includes kid-friendly discos and movie nights, rounding off each day with a smile.
Seasonal Events and Special Breaks
One of the best things about Butlin’s Skegness is that the fun doesn’t stop after summer. Throughout the year, the resort transforms to celebrate the seasons. As winter approaches, the Christmas and Winter Wonderland breaks are a particular highlight — complete with festive decorations, Santa’s grotto, ice skating, and themed entertainment for the whole family.
During the school holidays, Butlin’s also hosts themed breaks such as Science Week, Animal Encounters, and Carnival Week, offering interactive learning experiences mixed with plenty of fun. Every visit feels different, which is why so many families return year after year.
Adult-Only Breaks and Themed Weekends
While Butlin’s Skegness is famous for its family holidays, it also knows how to throw a weekend for grown-ups. The adult-only breaks feature live music, comedy, themed parties, and tribute weekends dedicated to everything from the 80s and 90s to soul, disco, and rock. These breaks combine festival energy with seaside nostalgia — perfect for groups of friends or couples looking for a fun getaway.
During these weekends, the entertainment is a little louder, the drinks flow longer, and the schedule is packed with daytime activities like quizzes, pool parties, and karaoke sessions. It’s a completely different side of Butlin’s — and one worth trying if you’re after a lively weekend by the sea.
Attractions Near Butlin’s Skegness
Even though Butlin’s offers more than enough to fill your stay, it’s worth taking a short trip outside the resort to explore Skegness and its surrounding attractions. The famous Skegness Pier is just a few minutes away and offers arcades, bowling, bars, and a modern climbing and obstacle course. Natureland Seal Sanctuary is another must-visit, especially for families with animal-loving children, as it provides a close-up look at rescued seals and other sea creatures. That’s just a few, there are plenty of things to do in Skegness.
For a relaxing walk, head to Skegness Beach, known for its wide golden sands and traditional British seaside charm. And if you have time to venture a little further, the Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve offers stunning coastal views, birdwatching trails, and peaceful picnic spots just a short drive south of the resort.
How to Plan Your Stay in Skegness
With so much to do at Butlin’s Skegness, planning ahead is key. Before you arrive, check the “What’s On” schedule for your specific break, which lists all shows, activities, and event times. Booking popular sessions like Splash Waterworld and certain workshops in advance is often recommended, especially during school holidays.
If you’re staying for a few days, try to balance your itinerary — mix high-energy activities like the water park and Sky Park with slower moments such as a stroll along the beach or a visit to the local attractions. That way, you’ll get the full Butlin’s experience without feeling rushed.
No matter the time of year, Butlin’s Skegness promises non-stop fun, laughter, and memories for everyone — whether you’re a family, a couple, or a group of friends looking for a seaside escape.