Things to Do in Skegness (2025 Guide)

If you’re planning a seaside escape in the UK, Skegness is one of those names that always pops up — and for good reason. Known locally as “Skeg,” this Lincolnshire coastal town has been welcoming holidaymakers since the Victorian era. With its classic arcades, sandy beaches, family-friendly attractions, and surprisingly lively nightlife, there really is something here for everyone.

Whether you’re coming for a weekend break, a summer holiday with the kids, or even a nostalgic return to the arcades of your childhood, Skegness offers a mix of old-school seaside fun and modern attractions.

In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through the very best things to do in Skegness — from the famous pier and donkey rides to hidden gems and day trips nearby.

 

Classic Seafront Attractions

Skegness Pier

No visit to Skegness is complete without a walk along Skegness Pier, one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. Originally built in 1881, the pier has stood the test of time and is now home to a mix of amusements, indoor attractions, and family-friendly fun.

Inside, you’ll find everything from ten-pin bowling and laser quest to the ever-popular arcades that Skegness is famous for. It’s a great place to head if the weather turns — and let’s be honest, on the East Coast, that’s always a possibility!

Tip: The pier often hosts seasonal events in summer and school holidays, so check ahead if you’re planning your visit.

Skegness Beach & Donkey Rides

The main draw for most visitors is of course the beach. Stretching for miles, the golden sands are ideal for a traditional day out: buckets and spades, picnics, and paddling in the shallows.

One of the most nostalgic seaside traditions here is the donkey rides, which have been a fixture on the sands for generations. They’re still hugely popular with children and remain one of the most photographed parts of a Skegness holiday.

The beach itself is Blue Flag rated, meaning it’s clean and safe — perfect if you’re travelling to Skegness with kids.

Amusements & Arcades

It wouldn’t be Skegness without the arcades. Along the front, you’ll find everything from classic 2p machines to modern video games, claw grabbers, and ticket redemption games.

Places like Lucky Strike, Bell’s Amusements, and Pier Amusements are not just for kids — adults can easily lose a couple of hours chasing jackpot lights and winning novelty prizes.

 

Family-Friendly Fun

If you’re visiting Skegness with children, you’ll find no shortage of attractions designed to keep them entertained.

Fairy Dell

A highlight for younger children, Fairy Dell paddling pool has been around for decades and remains a firm favourite. Refurbished in recent years, it’s a safe and fun place for kids to splash about during hot summer days. Best of all — it’s free.

Tower Gardens

For a quieter family outing, Tower Gardens is a central park just a short walk from the seafront. It features play areas, landscaped gardens, and plenty of space for picnics. In summer, it often hosts events, markets, and entertainment for children.

Funland Theme Park

Funland is a small but lively amusement park with rides for all ages, from traditional fairground attractions to family-friendly rollercoasters. It’s not on the scale of a major theme park, but it’s perfect for a day of fun without breaking the bank.

Tip: Wristbands are available and often work out cheaper than paying per ride, especially if you’re with kids who want to go on everything.

 

Shopping & Leisure

While most people come for the seaside, Skegness also offers plenty of shopping and leisure options if you want to take a break from the beach.

Skegness Retail Park

Located just outside the town centre, Skegness Retail Park features a mix of big-name stores and supermarkets — handy if you’re self-catering or need essentials.

High Street & Independent Shops

The high street itself is home to a variety of independent shops, selling everything from seaside souvenirs to locally made gifts. It’s worth taking a stroll for some unique finds and to support local businesses.

Skegness Bowl

For something a bit different, Skegness Bowl offers bowling lanes, laser quest, and even escape rooms. It’s a great rainy-day option and works well for both families and groups of friends.

 

Evening Entertainment

Skegness might be known for its family holidays, but it also has a lively side once the sun goes down.

Bars & Pubs

You’ll find plenty of traditional pubs and modern bars around the town, many of which serve food as well as drinks. Popular spots include The Red Lion, The Lumley, and The Welcome Inn.

For visitors wanting something livelier, the seafront bars often have music, DJs, and a buzzing atmosphere on summer evenings.

Live Entertainment Venues

One of Skegness’s unique draws is its mix of live entertainment venues. The Embassy Theatre is the main venue for shows, hosting everything from touring comedians and tribute acts to family theatre.

Many of the holiday parks around Skegness also put on evening shows, which are often open to non-residents for a small fee.

Seasonal Shows & Events

In the summer months, you’ll often find fireworks displays, outdoor concerts, and themed weekends taking place along the seafront. It’s worth checking local listings to see what’s on during your stay.

 

Day Trips & Nearby Places

One of the best things about staying in Skegness is that it makes a great base for exploring the Lincolnshire coast and countryside.

Chapel St Leonards

Just a few miles up the coast, Chapel St Leonards is a smaller seaside village with a laid-back feel. It’s perfect if you want a quieter beach day or a stroll along the sand dunes.

Mablethorpe

Further north, Mablethorpe offers another classic seaside experience, with its own arcades, amusements, and sandy beach. The seal sanctuary is a particular highlight for families.

Lincoln

If you fancy a change of pace, the historic city of Lincoln is only about an hour away by car. Famous for its cathedral, castle, and steep hill shopping street, it’s a brilliant day out with plenty of history and charm.

Gibraltar Point Nature Reserve

Closer to Skegness itself, Gibraltar Point is a beautiful nature reserve managed by the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust. It’s great for walking, birdwatching, and getting some fresh sea air away from the bustle of town.

 

Whether you’re here for a day trip, a weekend break, or a full holiday, there are more than enough things to do in Skegness to keep everyone entertained. From the nostalgia of donkey rides and arcades to the modern touches of bowling alleys, theme parks, and live shows, the town has managed to strike the perfect balance between tradition and variety.

And the fun doesn’t stop at the town limits — nearby resorts like Mablethorpe and Chapel St Leonards, or the historic city of Lincoln, make Skegness an ideal holiday base.

 

Skegness may be a classic British seaside town, but in 2025 it’s got more to offer than ever.