If you think Butlin’s is all Hi-De-Hi flats and chalets, you might want to think again. The renowned resort of Skegness – the birthplace of it all in 1936 – has recently significantly revamped its offering, pouring a whopping £20 million into high-quality on-site facilities last year.
I had the chance to explore their latest addition, the £12 million Maple Walk, which includes 128 premium lodges for those looking for peace and quiet.
This area was built in less than a year and is located across the street from the main resort. It has a distinct atmosphere compared to the rest of the place, and although the Butlin logo can be seen here and there, it is not a striking red and rather subdued.
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It’s a stark contrast to the Butlin’s you may remember from your younger days. The chalets are located across the road from the main resort and are accessible via an underpass. This passage has been refurbished to resemble a football stadium walkway, complete with floor-to-ceiling lighting and fresh wood paneling upon entry, NottsLive reports.
A new playground also greets you as you approach Maple Walk, and like everything else here, it feels like a safe space where you can let your kids play without worry. Turning the corner after the tunnel and playground, Maple Walk emerges from what used to be barren land, adjacent to the private caravan and static caravan area.
The color scheme is a soothing mix of gray and white, complemented by soft lighting and vibrant green grass. It’s in stark contrast to the bustling, brightly lit main resort across the road. It’s reminiscent of Center Parcs, minus the trees – this is Skegness after all.
Guests in this area benefit from their own private check-in booth, which promises to be much quieter than the main reception area. From the outside, the lodges resemble traditional static chalet-style buildings. Each room has its own parking space and a covered area, accessible via patio doors from the living area.
You reach the main entrance via a small staircase. There are also two wheelchair-accessible units on site. Once inside you will find all the amenities needed for a relaxing family getaway. As a mother of two who has experienced many self-catering holidays, I was looking for certain features that would earn my approval.
Firstly, the sofa – there were two separate sofas, perfect for siblings who disagree, and they were real sofas. Not a sofa with cushions, but something you can sink into after a day of exploring. The kitchen was equipped with a potato peeler, can opener, kitchen scissors and a sharp knife. Plus a microwave, hob, grill and separate oven.
I may be a bit boring, but I had to inspect the refrigerator and freezer compartment. Both were full size, so if you don’t have a dining plan you won’t have any problems cooking and storing your own food here. The corridor leading from the kitchen to the sleeping areas follows the typical mobile home layout “one in, one out”. My boys would love this cozy setup, but it’s something to keep in mind if everyone is trying to get in and out with bags at the same time.
What really stood out was that these chalets can accommodate up to six people (one double bed, four single beds) and have two bathrooms with shower and toilet. One has its own bathroom, the other is accessed from the main hallway. The showers are also quite spacious.
The use of space in the chalet is nothing short of remarkable. Yes, it’s cozy, but the living space is perfectly suited to families who are usually out all day enjoying all that Butlin’s has to offer. I can definitely see myself relaxing on the porch while the kids play on the quiet paths outside or go to the playground.
However, a trade-off must be made. Would you rather be at the center of everything, albeit with the risk of more noise?
Or would you rather walk back to base in exchange for guaranteed peace and quiet? That silence does come at a price, and these chalets are at the higher end of the accommodation price range.
On Tuesday 21 May I browsed Butlin’s website and opted for a four night stay for two adults and two children. The only option available was a premium three-bedroom chalet, with the choice of lodge left to Butlin’s discretion, priced at £1,239.
A Silver Room, which is at the lower end of the price list, sleeps four people in two singles and a double, has a bathroom but lacks a kitchen, and cost £559. A fairground apartment, a small flat that sleeps four and features a kitchen and living space near the resort’s fairground, cost £749.
It’s worth noting that these prices may fluctuate based on special offers, off-peak bookings or booking well in advance.
The addition of premium chalets will undoubtedly increase the appeal of Butlin, which is already a major contributor to Lincolnshire’s tourism sector. The development of this new section has created 50 jobs for locals.
And don’t be shocked if you see some Center Parcs regulars sneaking in, only to later claim they’ve always been fans of Butlin’s…