Our Story
In 1936, Billy Butlin changed the face of British holidays.
His aim was to make the British seaside break accessible to all. It started on a short visit to Barry Island where Billy felt sorry for families staying in drab guest houses with nothing much to do. He wanted to create a “place of colour and happiness” where quality activities and entertainment would be provided so that families could really enjoy their time together.
So in 1936, Billy bought a plot of land in Skegness (where the resort is to this day) and set about making this dream come true.
Billy not only pioneered a whole new way for British families to enjoy a seaside break, he was also a pioneer in the world of service. He wanted families to feel really looked after and cared for while they were away, and so he built a team that set the standard for providing brilliant service to his guests. You might know them as Redcoats.
His aim was to make the British seaside break accessible to all. It started on a short visit to Barry Island where Billy felt sorry for families staying in drab guest houses with nothing much to do. He wanted to create a “place of colour and happiness” where quality activities and entertainment would be provided so that families could really enjoy their time together.
So in 1936, Billy bought a plot of land in Skegness (where the resort is to this day) and set about making this dream come true.
Billy not only pioneered a whole new way for British families to enjoy a seaside break, he was also a pioneer in the world of service. He wanted families to feel really looked after and cared for while they were away, and so he built a team that set the standard for providing brilliant service to his guests. You might know them as Redcoats.
Our Timeline
Scanning back over 80 years, take a look at how our history unfolds and explore how Billy Butlin started his career as a travelling showman, progressed into holiday camps and grew his business into the iconic brand that it is today.
Butlin's Redcoats
Billy Butlin promised someone to look after you always, and today we still believe it's the service you receive that really makes your break special. Find out about the birth of the Redcoat at Butlin's.
Our Blog
Head over to the Butlin's Blog to keep up-to-date with all of our exciting news, gain some inspiration and read stories about us and our past and future developments.
Great Ormond Street
Our attachment to Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity started back in 1938, and to this day we continue to support them with our fundraising efforts.
Our Resorts Today
Located on the doorstep of some of Britain's loveliest beaches, discover our three seaside resorts and what makes them special.
Find out more about Butlin's today...
Accommodation
From the essentials to the lovely little touches, our accommodation has been designed with families in mind, for all kinds of needs and budgets.
Food & Drink
From stylish sit-down restaurants and grab-and-go options, to our buffet-style dining plans, there’s food and drink for everyone to enjoy.
Things to do
Explore our busy schedule of day to night entertainment for all ages, with so much of it included in the price.
Our Breaks
From action-packed summers to quieter term times, we've got a variety of two, three, four and seven night breaks throughout the year.