#skegness

Ingoldmells has one of the oldest holiday parks in the UK - Coastfields and the surrounding caravan sites began developing in the 1930s, growing alongside Butlin’s and turning the village into one of the biggest caravan‑holiday areas in Europe!

The name "Ingoldmells" is derived from an Old Norse phrase meaning "the sand dunes of Ingulf." The village is even mentioned in the Domesday Book and archaeological findings have uncovered evidence of Roman-era saltworks and prehistoric pottery kilns in the area!

From fairground rides and animal encounters to beach days, shopping and seaside traditions, here are the 20 things to do in Ingoldmells:

1. Visit Fantasy Island & Market

Enjoy one of Ingoldmells’ biggest attractions, with thrilling rides, family entertainment, arcades and plenty of activities. The adjoining market offers a huge range of stalls selling clothing, gifts, toys, sweets, homeware and seaside souvenirs.

2. Spend Time on Ingoldmells Beach

Relax on the sandy beach, enjoy the sea views, build sandcastles, paddle in the water or simply enjoy a traditional seaside day.

3. Meet the Animals at Hardy’s Animal Farm

A family-friendly attraction where visitors can meet farm animals, enjoy indoor and outdoor play areas, watch animal activities and join in with seasonal events.

4. Ride the Lincolnshire Coast Light Railway

Step aboard a historic narrow-gauge railway for a nostalgic journey. Visitors can see restored locomotives, vintage carriages and railway heritage collections during advertised operating days.

5. Have Fun at Jump Warriors

Enjoy active indoor entertainment with trampolines, climbing activities and challenges suitable for families.

6. Visit Tiny Tots Village Indoor Playzone

A soft play centre designed for younger children, providing a fun place to play whatever the weather.

7. Enjoy the Amusement Arcades

Try classic seaside entertainment including prize machines, arcade games, claw machines and 2p pushers.

8. Play Adventure Golf

Challenge family and friends to a fun round of themed miniature golf.

9. Go Bowling

Enjoy ten-pin bowling at Fantasy Island, making it a great option for a rainy day or evening activity.

10. Browse the Seaside Shops

Pick up holiday essentials, beach toys, gifts, souvenirs and traditional seaside items.

11. Enjoy Traditional Seaside Food

Treat yourself to classic favourites including fish and chips, ice cream, freshly made doughnuts, sweets and seaside rock.

12. Take a Coastal Walk

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the seafront while taking in views across the beach and North Sea.

13. Visit Ingoldmells Community Library

Explore the community library, browse books, access services and take part in activities during opening hours.

14. Watch the Sunrise and Enjoy the Coastal Atmosphere

Experience the peaceful side of Ingoldmells with an early morning walk, sea views and the traditional sights and sounds of a British seaside resort.

15. Visit St Peter and St Paul’s Church

Discover Ingoldmells’ history at this historic medieval church, which provides a quieter heritage attraction away from the busy resort area.

16. Look Out for Seasonal Events

Fantasy Island and other local venues host seasonal entertainment, themed events and special celebrations throughout the year.

17. Enjoy Holiday Park Entertainment

Many holiday parks in Ingoldmells offer swimming pools or leisure facilities, live shows, children’s activities and evening entertainment (access may depend on whether you are staying there or have a pass).

18. Visit Local Cafés, Pubs and Restaurants

Take a break and enjoy a drink, meal or snack at one of Ingoldmells’ many places to eat.

19. Explore Ingoldmells’ History

Discover the village’s past, including its historic roots, links to the Domesday Book and its long connection with the Lincolnshire coast.

20. Book a Butlins staycay!

Butlin’s Skegness is in Ingoldmells, just north of Skegness, at the postcode PE25 1NJ.

30 Ways to Experience Skegness!

Few British seaside towns are as iconic as Skegness. From its award-winning sandy beach and traditional donkey rides to family attractions, nature reserves and classic fish and chips by the sea, there is something here for every age and every budget.

Whether you're visiting for a day, enjoying a weekend break or spending a full family holiday on the Lincolnshire coast, here are 30 unforgettable ways to experience Skegness:

1. Relax on Skegness Beach

Skegness Beach is one of the town's biggest attractions, boasting wide stretches of golden sand and Blue Flag status. Build sandcastles, paddle in the sea, enjoy a picnic or simply relax while taking in the fresh coastal air.

2. Enjoy a Traditional Donkey Ride

A visit to Skegness wouldn't feel complete without seeing the famous donkeys on the beach. Available during the main holiday season, they remain one of Britain's best-loved seaside traditions.

3. Explore Skegness Pier

Originally opened in 1881, Skegness Pier is packed with family entertainment including amusement arcades, ten-pin bowling, laser quest, escape rooms, cafés and fantastic sea views.

4. Have Fun at Bottons Pleasure Beach

Bottons Pleasure Beach offers classic fairground fun with rides suitable for both children and adults. From dodgems and waltzers to family rides, there's plenty to enjoy.

5. Visit Natureland Seal Sanctuary

Natureland Seal Sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates injured seal pups found along the Lincolnshire coastline. Alongside the seals you'll also find penguins, reptiles, tropical butterflies and many other animals.

6. Discover the Skegness Aquarium

Journey beneath the waves as you explore fascinating marine displays featuring sharks, rays, colourful fish and interactive exhibits that are ideal for families.

7. Wander Through Tower Gardens

Beautifully maintained gardens provide a peaceful escape from the busy seafront. It's the perfect place to enjoy a gentle stroll, sit with an ice cream or simply relax amongst the flower beds.

8. Catch a Show at the Embassy Theatre

From touring West End productions and comedy shows to live music, tribute acts and family entertainment, the Embassy Theatre hosts performances throughout the year.

9. Explore Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve

Just south of Skegness, Gibraltar Point offers miles of unspoilt coastline, dunes, saltmarshes and walking trails. It's a paradise for birdwatchers, photographers and nature lovers.

10. Step Back in Time at The Village, Church Farm

Discover Lincolnshire's rural heritage by exploring historic cottages, traditional farm buildings and fascinating exhibits showing how local people lived through the centuries.

11. Walk Along the Promenade

The bustling promenade is lined with cafés, attractions and places to stop and admire the sea. It's a wonderful place for a leisurely walk at any time of day.

12. Take to the Water on the Boating Lake

Located within Tower Gardens, the boating lake offers seasonal pedalos and rowing boats, providing a relaxing activity for families.

13. Play Arnold Palmer Putting Course

One of Britain's most famous and longest-established putting courses, this traditional attraction has entertained generations of holidaymakers.

14. Tackle Jurassic Falls Adventure Golf

Play your way around dinosaurs, waterfalls and prehistoric scenery in this themed adventure golf course that's great fun for all ages.

15. Enjoy the Amusement Arcades

Skegness is famous for its traditional seaside arcades. Try your luck on the penny pushers, claw machines, ticket games and modern video games.

16. Visit Lucky Strike Family Entertainment Centre

Alongside the seafront arcades, Lucky Strike offers modern gaming experiences, redemption games and family entertainment under one roof.

17. Battle it Out at Laser Quest

Located at Skegness Pier, Laser Quest is an exciting indoor activity where families and friends can compete in fast-paced laser battles.

18. Escape the Escape Rooms

Challenge yourselves to solve clues, crack puzzles and escape before time runs out in one of the Pier's themed escape rooms.

19. Go Ten-Pin Bowling

Whether the weather is sunny or rainy, bowling is always a fantastic family activity and suitable for visitors of all ages.

20. Browse Hildreds Shopping Centre

Take a break from the beach and browse a range of high street retailers, gift shops and cafés in the town's main indoor shopping centre.

21. Explore Lumley Road

Skegness's main shopping street is filled with independent shops, souvenir stores, bakeries, cafés and traditional seaside businesses.

22. Visit the Famous Clock Tower

Standing proudly near the seafront, the Skegness Clock Tower is one of the town's best-known landmarks and a popular meeting point.

23. Meet the Jolly Fisherman

No trip is complete without a photograph beside the famous Jolly Fisherman statue, celebrating the character behind Skegness's iconic holiday slogan.

24. Admire the Seaview Colonnade

Take a walk beneath the historic colonnade and enjoy one of the classic architectural features that has been welcoming visitors for generations.

25. Go Swimming at Skegness Pool & Fitness Suite

If the North Sea feels a little too chilly, head indoors for a swim at the local leisure centre.

26. Conquer Altitude44 High Ropes

For those looking for adventure, Altitude44 offers one of the UK's tallest high ropes experiences, complete with incredible views across the coast.

27. Visit Radcliffe Donkey Sanctuary

Animal lovers can meet rescued donkeys and learn more about the important work carried out by this local sanctuary.

28. Walk Part of the England Coast Path

Stretch your legs along this spectacular long-distance coastal route and enjoy breathtaking views across the Lincolnshire coastline.

29. Enjoy Traditional Fish and Chips by the Sea

Nothing says British seaside holiday quite like freshly cooked fish and chips enjoyed overlooking the beach. Add a portion of mushy peas, a bread roll and plenty of vinegar for the full experience.

30. Visit Skegness RNLI Lifeboat Station

Learn about the incredible work carried out by the volunteer lifeboat crews who help keep local waters safe. If you're lucky, you may even spot the lifeboat launching during an exercise or call-out.

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Skeggy has been welcoming holidaymakers for many years and it's easy to see why. Whether you're looking for nostalgic seaside fun, family attractions, beautiful nature, shopping or simply a relaxing day beside the sea, there's something here for everyone.

Finding Your Next Adventure: 6 Great Days Out Within Reach! 🗺

Sometimes the best thing we can do is simply spend a day somewhere different. A walk by the sea, exploring somewhere new, or discovering a piece of local history can help us reset, make memories with family or simply enjoy a change of scenery.

Whether you're planning a solo adventure, a day out with friends, or a family trip, these six destinations all offer plenty to see and do.

1. Hull – A City Full of Surprises

Hull combines fascinating museums, beautiful parks and a thriving independent shopping scene, making it a brilliant destination for all ages.

Top 10 things to do:

1. Visit The Deep.

2. Explore the Museums Quarter.

3. Wander around Trinity Market (shopping!)

4. Discover the Ferens Art Gallery.

5. Visit Hull Maritime Museum.

6. Step inside Hull Minster.

7. Walk around the Fruit Market and Humber Street.

8. Relax in Pearson Park.

9. Spend time at East Park.

10. Follow Hull's colourful Street Art Trail.

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2. Skegness – Traditional Seaside Fun

Nothing quite beats a day beside the sea. Skegness offers everything from sandy beaches to family attractions.

Top 10 things to do:

1. Visit Natureland Seal Sanctuary.

2. Walk along Skegness Pier.

3. Fish and chips on the beach.

4. Enjoy Fantasy Island.

5. Explore Skegness Aquarium.

6. Meet the animals at Hardy's Animal Farm.

7. Visit Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve.

8. Watch a performance at the Embassy Theatre.

9. Have fun at Bottons Pleasure Beach.

10. Enjoy a traditional donkey ride along the beach (seasonal).

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3. Cleethorpes – Classic Coastal Charm

Cleethorpes is perfect if you're looking for a slower-paced seaside escape with plenty to explore.

Top 10 things to do:

1. Ride the Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway.

2. Walk along the promenade.

3. Relax on the beach.

4. Visit Ross Castle.

5. Feed the ducks at the Boating Lake.

6. Explore the Discovery Centre.

7. Visit Magical Castle Soft Play

8. Stroll through Pier Gardens.

9. Visit Meridian Showground (if event on)

10. Enjoy the cafés and views around Cleethorpes Pier.

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4. Grimsby – Rich in Maritime History

Grimsby has a proud fishing heritage and plenty of green spaces to enjoy alongside its historic attractions.

Top 10 things to do:

1. Visit the Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre.

2. Step aboard the Ross Tiger trawler.

3. Walk through People's Park.

4. Explore Grimsby Minster.

5. Browse the shops at Freshney Place.

6. Enjoy a woodland walk in Weelsby Woods.

7. Visit Bradley Woods.

8. See a show at Grimsby Auditorium.

9. Discover the Time Trap Museum.

10. Admire the historic Corporation Bridge.

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5. Mablethorpe – Sand, Sea and Fresh Air

With its wide sandy beach and relaxed atmosphere, Mablethorpe is perfect for slowing down and enjoying the coast.

Top 10 things to do:

1. Spend the day on Mablethorpe Beach.

2. Visit the Mablethorpe Seal Sanctuary & Wildlife Centre.

3. Explore Queen's Park.

4. Play a round of crazy golf (theres also soft play and more!)

5. Walk through the Mablethorpe Dunes.

6. Visit Mablethorpe Coastal Country Park.

7. Browse the weekly market.

8. Enjoy the traditional seaside amusements.

9. Visit the seasonal fairground.

10. Take a short trip to the North Sea Observatory at nearby Chapel St Leonards.

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6. Lincoln – History Around Every Corner

Lincoln is packed with historic landmarks, independent shops and beautiful places to explore.

Top 10 things to do:

1. Visit Lincoln Cathedral.

2. Explore Lincoln Castle.

3. Walk the medieval walls around Lincoln Castle.

4. Wander down the famous Steep Hill.

5. Visit The Collection Museum.

6. Explore the Museum of Lincolnshire Life.

7. Discover the Usher Gallery.

8. Walk around Brayford Waterfront.

9. Visit Ellis Mill.

10. Explore Doddington Hall & Garden.

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Whether you're looking for the peace of the coast, the excitement of a city, or somewhere new to explore with family, there's a fantastic day out waiting not too far from home.

​The best stories are the ones we create ourselves. Whether you need the quiet of the waves or the hum of the city, take a moment for yourself.

Family Days Out by Bus from Louth 🚎

You don’t need a car to enjoy a brilliant family day out. From seaside adventures to historic cities, there are plenty of places you can reach by bus from Louth 🚏

Here are some family-friendly ideas for your next adventure:

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Mablethorpe

Bus: Service 50

A classic Lincolnshire seaside day out and one of the easiest places to reach from Louth. Enjoy the sandy beach, traditional amusements, fish and chips, crazy golf, and attractions including the Mablethorpe Seal Sanctuary.

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Lincoln

Bus: Service 50

A fantastic day out filled with history, culture and family-friendly activities. Explore Lincoln Castle and Lincoln Cathedral, walk the castle walls, wander down historic Steep Hill, browse independent shops, or stop for lunch in one of the city’s cafés.

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Grimsby

Bus: Service 51/51B

Travel directly from Louth to Grimsby and enjoy a day exploring the town centre, shops, cafés, museums and local attractions. It’s also a great starting point if you want to continue on to the coast.

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Cleethorpes - from Louth to Grimsby then Grimsby to Louth -

Just a short onward journey from Grimsby, Cleethorpes is perfect for a traditional seaside day. Enjoy the sandy beach, arcades, boating lake, miniature railway, promenade walks and plenty of places for a family treat.

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Longer Adventures (with a change of bus)

Skegness - bus from Louth to Mablethorpe then Mablethorpe to Skegness -

A longer journey, but a great option for a full day out. Enjoy miles of sandy beach, Skegness Pier, amusement arcades, Natureland Seal Sanctuary, gardens and classic seaside attractions.

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Hull - bus from Louth to Grimsby then Grimsby to Hull -

For a bigger city adventure, Hull is a great choice. Discover The Deep aquarium, explore free museums, wander around the historic Old Town, enjoy shopping, or find somewhere to eat in the city centre.

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Top travel tips:

• Always check the latest timetables before travelling, especially on Sundays and bank holidays.

• A day ticket can often save money if you’re making several journeys.

• CallConnect can help you reach some smaller villages and areas not served by regular buses https://lincsbus.com/callconnect/

• Lincolnshire bus information, timetables and journey planning: https://lincsbus.com

Find out:

• Public transport

• Apply for a free bus pass

• Plan a bus journey

• Community transport

• Plan a train journey

• Poacher Line

• Callconnect

• Bus Service Operators Grant

• COVID-19 Bus Service Support Grant