'I went to Butlins for the first time since I was a kid - and here's why I was blown away'

Forget everything you think you know about Butlins and be prepared to find your new winter staycation hotspot.

Having just returned from a trip at Butlins for the first time since I was a young kid (after being took by my folks in the early 00s to visit Noddy and Big Ears), I feel compelled to share why I think you should give it a go yourself.

I have extremely fond memories from my trip as a youngster but I had no idea I could make some more just as good at the age of 28. But before I begin, I want to make it clear I will definitely not be leaving it another two decades before I return again.

I've just come back from the We Call It Dance Weekender at Skegness which took place from 15-18 November for a few days of fun and soaking up what the resort had to offer. The three-day event showcased stellar performances from big names in the house, garage, techno and drum and bass scene.

With different stages playing different genres, it was so easy and stress-free to hop from venue to venue, especially when they were just a minute stroll apart. The music also blared until very late, giving the ravers exactly what they wanted during their seaside escape.

Butlins isn't stereotypically known for it's lavishness, more so a cheap and cheerful location, but let me tell you - it now has 'boujie' options but still with a budget-friendly price tag.

I had the pleasure of staying in one of their new Maple Walk premium lodges which give Centre Parcs a run for their money. When I arrived I could hear music blasting from the other lodges, making it even more exciting to get stuck in, but once our lodge door was shut it was peaceful in our own temporary abode - well, before we started on the karaoke machine.

Our accommodation slept six people - one large double (with an en-suite!), two twin beds rooms, and another main bathroom. The residence was decked out smart but homely which was perfect for relaxing (or for waiting out a hangover).

It boasted a large living room and a kitchen with everything you'd need for a short stay or long stay - even a dishwasher! And yes, there's room for the whole family or squad, plus a private decking area outside with table and chairs.

As a keen traveller and city-living girl, I'm so used to tirelessly jumping on public transport or in an Uber to get from pres to a venue, but it made such a refreshing change to leave all that faff behind and walk just five minutes to the live arenas.

And when I first entered the packed skyline full of party-goers, I could not look left nor right without seeing laughing faces and questionable fancy dress outfits. Everyone there was full of beans and genuinely up for a good time, leaving all their inhibitions and worries back at home.

I made some new dancefloor buddies, bumped into some people from my hometown (shout out Great Yarmouth!) and even ran into some old raver pals from my Printworks days. Importantly, I also felt incredibly safe, even when I did manage to lose my caravan at 5am, security were on hand with directions.

It's fair to say it helped round of the end of my year extremely successfully and was certainly one for the books. I had some of the biggest belly laughs I've had in months, danced my heart out, and spent some quality time with my best mate - and all without breaking the bank whilst I was there.

Living in London, I am too familiar with forking out when it comes to having fun, but from Big Weekender trips coming in from just as little as £47pp in 2025, you literally cannot go wrong!

For those of you reading who have been to a Big Weekender, I know you understand what I'm saying, but those who haven't then I urge you to get booking ASAP. For more information on what should be your next trip, then please click www.butlins.com/bigweekenders.