Butlins has such a bad reputation, but it is actually one of our favourite holiday parks for toddlers.
We have been to Bognor Regis three times now and, in term time, it has never cost us more than £100 for a Monday – Friday break. This is even staying in the ‘best’ accommodation.
On our first visit our youngest was only 8 months old and on our most recent visit our oldest was four.
For our first trip we went with such low expectations because of people’s snobbish notion of Butlins. But we were actually pleasantly surprised.
Unlike some of the other holiday parks we have been to – pretty much everything is included in your stay. Entertainment, rides, soft play, swimming, and more.
Yes, some of the accommodation and facilities are run down, and yes you may need a stab proof vest to feel safe, but there is so much to keep toddlers occupied.
I must start with the entertainment. At Butlins, we have seen pantomimes, Peppa Pig shows, Ms Rachel Tribute, Mister Maker, The Animal Guyz, Puppet shows and all of them have been of such good quality and free!
Each show is usually on twice during a Monday – Friday break, on different times and days, so families can always make it work around their routines.
Every entertainment venue feels really relaxed that if the kids do get bored and need to leave, you can quite easily.
In the evenings, there is the classic Red Coat entertainment aimed at younger kids where they teach the children dances and play with them on the dance floor. And unlike most holiday parks – they actually play kid’s music!
Butlins Bognor Regis also has one of the best indoor swimming complexes (in our opinion) for toddlers. There are so many slides, fountains, and flumes for toddlers to enjoy.
There is a pram park just outside the changing rooms, but this did get quite full and it is not very well organised so we stopped taking our pram. This can be difficult as the swimming pool is really far from any accommodation.
They used to have a really good soft play in the main entertainment dome but this was shut recently, and they now have a brand-new soft play in a new location. It is good but is sectioned in age ranges, which can be useful, but my two children were getting frustrated that they could not go in the older bit.
There are a few indoor fairground rides that my children loved. They are basic but that is usually all toddlers want. The best bit is they are free and you can ride them as many times as you like.
There is also an outdoor funfair, but this is geared more to older children.
The accommodation is fine. We always go self-catering as I find this easiest for our family. Though I do believe Butlins offers some sort of drinks and dining package.
You also get a cleaner a few times and top up of essentials during your visit which we have never had on other holiday parks so that was a nice touch.
I did get talking to a Mum who was staying in the hotel with her toddler and she said they actually have separate sleeping areas in the hotel room.
In summary, you probably spend £100 to heat your home for the week so go to Butlins instead with low expectations and prepare to be pleasantly surprised with a fully entertained toddler!