Skegness Summer: EMR shares top tips to enjoy a seaside trip this year
- Tips for day-tripper's, those who want to travel light and those who are taking bedding
- Recommendations shared for sunny and rainy days and how to save money
East Midlands Railway (EMR) has shared its top tips for customers who are travelling to Skegness this summer.
Skegness remains a firm favourite with holidaymakers, and with another busy summer expected, we’re here to help you travel smoothly – whatever the weather. From packing smarter to making the most of rainy days, our top tips are designed to make your journey and stay as enjoyable as possible.
Top Tip: book in advance
To help manage capacity, we strongly recommend pre-booking a place on your chosen train. Around 85% of our Skegness customers already book ahead, which helps them secure the best prices and availability.
While it’s not compulsory – and day trips without a reservation are still possible – services can get very busy. During peak times, customers without a booking may not be able to board their first-choice train. Booking ahead guarantees you a place on board and gives you access to the priority boarding queue.
You can book up to 12 weeks in advance and select both your outbound and return journeys.
Arrive 30 minutes before your service
Give yourself plenty of time. Queuing systems will be in place at Nottingham and Skegness stations, with separate queues for customers with and without reservations. If you’ve booked in advance (including season ticket holders), you’ll join the priority queue.
Remember, Under 5s go free
Travelling with little ones? Children under 5 travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult.
Travel light – leave the big shop behind
There’s no need to bring all your groceries with you – space on trains is limited. Skegness station is conveniently located next to a Tesco and Lidl, making it easy to pick up what you need when you arrive.
Use a free vacuum pack to shrink your bedding
Heading off for a longer stay? We’re offering free vacuum packs to help you pack smart and save space – ideal for bulky bedding.
To get yours, contact our Customer Relations Team on 03457 125 678, email contact@eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk, or visit our Skegness Summer page.
Don't worry if the train is full - buses will be running directly to Butlins on key days
To give you more options this summer, we’re running direct buses between Nottingham, Grantham, Butlins and Skegness on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays, from Friday 18 July to Friday 26 September.
These services will be staffed by dedicated coordinators and designed for convenience – with similar journey times to the train, full wheelchair accessibility, and compliance with all accessibility standards.
We’ve also got standby buses ready to go from Nottingham, Grantham and Skegness on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays – ensuring cover every day of the week.
In a Group? Taxis might be cheaper
If you're heading to Butlins with a group of five or more, consider a taxi – it could be cheaper than individual bus fares. Rides to Butlins are about £10 from the station. You can pre-book with Reds Cabs on 01754 765555, or grab a cab at the rank just outside Costa Coffee.
Travelling with your mobility scooter? Make sure you have a permit
Customers using mobility scooters must obtain a permit prior to boarding. Applications can be made online, by phone, email, or post through EMR’s Customer Service Centre.
Customers who wish to travel before EMR can process an application can obtain a temporary one at the following stations: Sheffield, Derby, Leicester, Nottingham or Lincoln.
More information can be found on EMR's website: https://www.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/assisted-travel
Don’t let the rain stop you
There’s still plenty to do if the weather turns. Catch a show at the Neverland Theatre, or enjoy a performance at the Wonder Circus – keep an eye out for posters in town offering kids-go-free deals and discounted tickets.
Cool off by the pool
On sunny days, the Skegness Pool & Fitness Suite (right next to the Embassy Theatre) is a great value option for families. Advance booking is a must, especially in hot weather.
For more information https://www.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/summer-skegness