Skegness has been crowned the United Kingdom's happiest seaside resort, with its famous Butlin's holiday camp securing a prestigious spot in a global top ten list of the most joyful destinations.
A Surprising Winner on the World Stage
New research conducted by AttractionTickets.com has revealed that four of the planet's top ten happiest places are located in the UK. While the Eiffel Tower in Paris claimed the number one position, Butlin's in Skegness, Lincolnshire, achieved an impressive seventh place, outperforming every other British coastal resort.
The study used a happiness scale with a maximum possible score of 25. Butlin's Skegness earned an outstanding 22.95, receiving perfect five-out-of-five scores in both 'happy' and 'perfect' categories from visitor reviews.
90 Years of Affordable Family Fun
This victory is particularly sweet for the resort, which is celebrating a significant milestone. Founded by Billy Butlin in 1936, the Skegness camp is the original site where the Butlin's story began. Now, 90 years later, it remains a hugely popular choice for families seeking value-packed getaways.
Holidaymakers can book short breaks from as little as £39 per person during off-peak times. Even during the busy August school holidays, breaks are available, with some offers for a family of four working out at approximately £107 per person.
The resort is a hub of non-stop activity, designed to keep all ages entertained. Key attractions include:
- Butlin's Skypark: A large, inclusive outdoor adventure playground.
- Splash Waterworld: A massive 3,000 square metre aquatic centre featuring flumes, rapids, and pools.
- A jam-packed schedule of live shows, games, and activities ensuring there's never a dull moment.
More Than Just a Holiday Camp
While Butlin's also operates parks in Minehead and Bognor Regis, it was the Skegness location that specifically won the 'happiest' title for the UK. The town itself offers a classic blend of nostalgic seaside charm and vibrant, family-friendly attractions.
The local beach holds the esteemed Blue Flag award, signifying it is among the cleanest and best-managed in the world. Skegness Pier, constructed over a century ago, was the fourth longest in England at the time it was built.
Tripadvisor reviews echo the findings, with one visitor declaring: "Skeggy is THE seaside town to visit." They praised the "immaculate golden sands" and plentiful amenities. Another reviewer noted the town's broad appeal, stating it offers an "endless choice of things to do" for both families and adults.
The AttractionTickets.com study highlighted other UK centres of happiness, with Warner Bros. Studio Tour London ranking third, Center Parcs Longleat Forest in sixth, and the Natural History Museum in London taking tenth place.