Is Skegness good for a family beach holiday?
Yes, Skegness is widely considered a classic family beach holiday destination in the UK. Its main beach offers golden sands, and there are many family-oriented attractions like donkey rides, amusement arcades, Skegness Pier, and nearby theme parks.
Can you swim in the sea at Skegness?
Yes, you can swim in the sea at Skegness. The main beach has been awarded Blue Flag status, indicating good water quality suitable for swimming. The beach has a gentle slope and shallow waters, making it inviting for swimmers and paddlers. Lifeguard services are often available during peak season.
What is the water quality like at Skegness beach?
Skegness beach has a reputation for good water quality and has consistently been awarded Blue Flag status. The Environment Agency regularly monitors bathing water quality during the season. Most Lincolnshire beaches, including Skegness, are often rated 'excellent' for water quality.
Are dogs allowed on Skegness beach?
There are restrictions for dogs on the main Skegness beach. Dogs are typically banned from the main sections of Skegness beach from 1st May to 30th September. However, some areas, like Skegness South Beach (South Bracing), allow dogs year-round or have different rules. It's always best to check current local signage for specific zones and times. Dogs must usually be kept on a lead on the promenade in restricted areas.
When is the best time to visit Skegness for a beach holiday?
The best time for a beach holiday in Skegness is generally during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warmest and sunniest. July and August typically have the highest temperatures. However, Skegness can be visited year-round, with late spring and early autumn also offering pleasant conditions, potentially with fewer crowds.
What are the beaches in Skegness like? Are they sandy?
Skegness Central Beach is known for its long, wide expanse of soft, golden sand. It's a traditional sandy beach ideal for activities like sunbathing, building sandcastles, and paddling.
Is Skegness beach crowded?
Skegness beach, being a popular resort, can get busy, especially during peak summer holiday periods and sunny weekends. However, it's a large, expansive beach, so it's often possible to find space. The North Shore area of Skegness beach tends to be quieter. For significantly quieter beach experiences, nearby alternatives like Anderby Creek or Moggs Eye are options.
What facilities are available at Skegness beach?
Skegness beach is well-equipped with facilities. These typically include public toilets (sometimes requiring a small fee), cafes, restaurants, fish and chip shops, first aid points, and shops selling beach essentials. The promenade runs along the beach with arcades and amusements. Deckchair and beach hut hire may also be available.
How do you get to Skegness beach and is there parking?
Skegness beach is easily accessible. If driving, it's located off the A52. There are several car parks near the beach, including a main one on North Parade. Skegness railway station is about a 10-15 minute walk from the beach, and the town is also served by buses.
Are there quieter beaches near Skegness?
Yes, if you're looking for quieter alternatives to the main Skegness beach, there are several nearby options. Beaches like Anderby Creek, Moggs Eye (Huttoft Beach), and Winthorpe Beach are known for being less crowded and offering a more tranquil experience. Chapel St Leonards can also be a more laid-back option.
What's the difference between Skegness beach and Ingoldmells beach?
Skegness beach is known for its traditional seaside resort feel with a long pier, donkey rides, and extensive promenade. Ingoldmells beach, just north of Skegness, is also a sandy beach popular with tourists and locals, and is notably close to attractions like Fantasy Island theme park and market. Ingoldmells can be busy, especially near caravan parks.
Is Skegness suitable for a traditional British seaside holiday?
Absolutely. Skegness is often described as the quintessential traditional British seaside resort. It offers classic features like golden sandy beaches, a pier, amusement arcades, donkey rides, fish and chip shops, and family entertainment, making it ideal for a nostalgic seaside experience.
Are there lifeguards at Skegness beach?
Yes, a lifeguard service is typically provided at Skegness beach, especially during the main holiday season (e.g., May to September). It's always advisable to swim in lifeguarded areas, usually marked by red and yellow flags.
Can you walk from Skegness to Ingoldmells along the beach?
Yes, it is possible to walk between Skegness and Ingoldmells. The beaches are part of a long stretch of coastline. Chapel St Leonards is also accessible via walking along the coast from Ingoldmells. The distance to Ingoldmells beach from Skegness main beach is a few miles.
What is there to do near Skegness beach besides sitting on the sand?
Beyond the beach itself, Skegness offers numerous attractions. These include Skegness Pier with its arcades and entertainment, the Pleasure Beach fairground, Natureland Seal Sanctuary, Skegness Aquarium, crazy golf, and the Fairy Dell paddling pool. The promenade is lined with shops, cafes, and amusements.
