Butlins Skegness! Any tips!

[FTM2022SS]

We have just booked Butlins Skegness for the end of September, 2 adults and our DS(will be 18 months!)

Actually looking forward to it but never been before so looking for tips and tricks!

We have a 'gold apartment' which I think is at 'The Keys'?! And have booked a premium dining package which sounds like buffet breakfast and buffet tea! Will probably use for breakfast but happy to change it up for lunch and dinner!

What should we pack? What should be make sure we don't miss out on? Is the pool warm?

TIA! X

Get the app set up and make sure you look over the shows/activities and get them booked as soon as the times are released.

take a bucket and spade for the beach.

soend time in the pavilion. The daytime shows are really good.

have a day out in Skegness itself. We love it there.

Great for kids.

Gold apartment is ok. I wouldn't go any lower. Food was awful the time we had it.

@RuthW you wouldn't go lower than gold? That's helpful thank you.

What was wrong with the food as I can eat warm or even cold food but if not cooked properly that's not good at all!

To be honest I can't remember. We only had food once years ago. Dd liked it though

Regarding the food, there are two dining packages:
Food court dining & premium dining.
We have booked premium dining several times and it has been great - similar to a buffet in a package holiday type hotel but with a more British feel. Lots of choice of mains, salad bar, fresh fruit, various desserts, themed nights etc.
The one time we booked good court dining we managed one meal before upgrading! It was like a school canteen. Really busy, less choice, dirty tables etc. Definitely worth paying the extra!

Also agree with the poster who said not to book below gold - don't be fooled by the 'gold' this is probably what most people would consider as a normal/acceptable standard

We go every year and love it. Had premium and standard food and standard is fine for us.
We chose standard apartments. I prefer them because they are closer to the main stuff so you can be at the swimming/shows within a minute. Walked home after the pool party in just our towels (and costumes obviously).

Buy a few lunch items because the shop is expensive. Me and my husband don't have lunch and just fill up at breakfast and eat tea early but the kids can't really do that.

Circus is definitely worth it. Really, really good.

Top tip: pack a swim bag separately. You can arrive on site earlier than you can get in your apartment so we always go swimming straight away and then check in after and get changed for dinner.

Book your shows on the app and you can plan your day. It's really so good for the kids there's plenty to entertain them. They'll have a great time.

It's changed...it's now 28 days before you go or 31 VIP passes. Have you booked a ground floor. Its3 storey. So lots of stairs. If the app plays up use plan my day. Screenshot your bookings for safe keeping

There are 2 FB groups you might want to join. There are lots of photos of the food. The groups are invaluable.

Circus is only on for the school holidays

I've stayed in gold, silver and standard. I like standard best as it's closer to the 'action' and I don't think you get anything extra for your money. (Unless you're a bigger family as sometimes you have a sofa bed instead of an extra room in standard)

Food is nice. Standard but nice. Hot breakfast every morning. Full English, cereal, fruit, pastries, yoghurt etc. dinner is pizza, chicken, pasta, chips, sausage, roast dinner, salad bar, desert bar, ice cream etc

If you want a walk on the beach, the gate is only open certain times and it’s a very long walk round