It is 2 o'clock on a Saturday afternoon at Butlin's in Skegness, and I am about to sample one of the site's famed group activities — but not bingo or pitch 'n' putt. I have arranged to attend a 'pre-meet' with a group of swingers at the Jellyfish Bar.
A pre-meet is swinger terminology for a public event where would-be participants meet, fully clothed, before any intimate activities commence. You might think that a branch of Butlin's — a brand synonymous with family-friendly seaside resorts — is an unlikely place for such a rendezvous. However, the holiday camp chain's Adult Weekenders, which are adult in the sense of 'no kids allowed', have become very adult indeed. The 'leave the kids at home' angle has made them a magnet for swingers.
So, here I am at Butlin's, sitting nervously, armed only with a £6.25 pint of lager and clutching a headshot of an attractive-looking couple in their 40s who set up the meeting. The atmosphere is casual, and many attendees are dressed in casual attire, but there is an underlying current of anticipation.
The pre-meet serves as a way for swingers to connect in a safe, public environment before deciding whether to take things further. Butlin's has become a popular venue for these events due to its controlled environment and the privacy afforded by adult-only weekends. For many, it is a chance to explore their lifestyle without judgment.
As I observe, I notice couples and individuals mingling, exchanging pleasantries, and occasionally showing photos. The vibe is more social than overtly sexual, with conversations ranging from holidays to hobbies. It is a reminder that swinging, for many, is about community and shared experiences rather than just physical encounters.
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