Touring Caravanning

12 things to do in Skegness and the surrounding countryside in 2021

We love our corner of Lincolnshire but what is there to do in Skegness? These are our reasons you should visit this summer.

Whether you are looking for the thrill and excitement of a theme park, or the peace and tranquility of a nature reserve, here in Lincolnshire, we have something for everyone.

Natureland Seal Sanctuary

Dedicated to treating and returning seals to their natural habitat, the Natureland Seal Sanctuary has lots to see and do for the whole family. Why not have a day out and enjoy feeding the alpacas and sheep? Or are the koi more to your liking? The keepers are always happy to talk to you about the animals and you may get to see them feeding the seals, seal pups and penguins!

Hardy’s Animal Farm

The perfect day out for young families, Hardy’s Animal Farm is set in 7 acres of Lincolnshire countryside in Ingoldmells and just 10 minutes from the beach. Even if the weather is less than brilliant, there is still lots to see and do with indoor and outdoor activities. Younger children will love meeting the animals and learning about modern farming.

The beach

The Lincolnshire coast has an abundance of beaches, and visitors are spoilt for choice. From Skegness and Mablethorpe, to Ingoldmells South Beach, our beautiful coastline features golden, clean, sandy beaches which stretch for miles. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll and paddle or a donkey ride and fish and chips, our beaches have something for everyone.

Fantasy Island

Situated just a stone’s throw from the beach in Ingoldmells, Fantasy Island is the perfect day out for thrill-seekers of all ages. Entry is free and you will have access to restaurants, cafés and bars, as well as Europe’s largest market. Ride tickets can be purchased online with Little Explorers going free! (height restrictions apply).

Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve

With fabulous views and diverse wildlife to enjoy, Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve stretches from Skegness to the mouth of the Wash. The visitor centre and nature centre are well worth a visit, with most paths on the reserve accessible to wheelchairs, pushchairs and mobility scooters. The friendly team of staff is happy to answer questions and there is a café available for a choice of light refreshments.

Skegness Pier

Featuring almost 120 metres (400 feet) of remaining Victorian boardwalk, Skegness Pier was first opened in 1881. Offering a fun-packed day out for the whole family, the pier features a 10-pin bowling alley, laser quest, escape rooms and soft play. New for 2021 is Playa at the Pier, a bar on the pier deck where you can dip your toes while enjoying a cocktail, and Clip ‘n’ Climb, a climbing centre for the whole family.

The Embassy Theatre

After prolonged closure due to the pandemic, The Embassy Theatre will be open again for summer 2021. The perfect venue for live music and musical theatre shows, the theatre also boasts ‘Stage to Screen’, its screening and cinema initiative which launched in late spring 2021, as well as two movie clubs.

Radcliffe Donkey Sanctuary

A non-profit making organisation, the Radcliffe Donkey Sanctuary in Huttoft welcomes visitors to come and meet their rescue donkeys. Rescued from a diverse set of conditions, the donkeys are free to live out their lives in comfort and they really enjoy the fuss that visitors make of them.

The Village Church Farm

This hidden gem is tucked away in Skegness and is Lincolnshire’s only open air museum. Visit the Victorian farmhouse and explore the farm labourer’s thatched cottage. With interactive activities for the whole family, including feeding the chickens and storytelling, the farm has a team of tour guides who are available to talk to you and also ‘Bob’, the farm’s working traction engine. The farm can be found on Church Road South, Skegness.

Butlins

The Butlin’s resort in Skegness was the first to open in 1936 and today, this site offers a great family day out for all ages. With a traditional fairground including dodgems and vintage stall games, as well as all the seaside treats of yesteryear, Butlin’s will appeal to the young, young at heart and every age in between.

Gunby Hall

Situated less than 8 miles from Skegness, Gunby Hall is a county house that dates from 1700 which is set in a stunning Victorian walled garden. Gifted to the National Trust in 1944, Gunby became fully managed by the trust in 2012. Spend your time exploring 8 acres of walled garden, take a stroll to the Ice house Pond or simply enjoy the stunning interior at leisure.   

Lincolnshire Coast Light Railway

Throughout the summer months, the LCLR run operating days each Wednesday and Saturday, when visitors can travel along the 0.75 mile stretch in a stunning 60cm narrow gauge heritage locomotive. Offering a great day out for all the family, the LCLR offer trips in historic railway carriages pulled by both diesel and steam locomotives.