In the summer of 1996, I was a bubbly four-year-old enjoying my very first trip to Butlin’s Minehead, lodging in a chalet beneath the buzz of cable cars and immersing myself in arcade games, water fun, and lively entertainment. Flash forward to May 2025, and I found myself back at the same resort—this time with my husband, our four-year-old daughter, and my in-laws—ready to relive those cherished moments through a new generation’s eyes.
The journey from Kent to Somerset unveiled breathtaking coastal views, heightening our excitement for the holiday ahead. On arrival, the initial impression was mixed. The entrance area featured older flats with rusty railings, which, along with a staff mention of a “grotty part” of the park, hinted at the resort’s ongoing struggles with modernization.
However, stepping into our accommodation at the West Lake lodge complex—Butlin’s newest housing block opened in 2015—quickly lifted my spirits. The modern, spacious apartment featured a lovely terrace overlooking a serene lake frequented by ducks and geese. My daughter wasted no time exploring the wide, smooth paths ideal for scooters and bikes, turning the space into a mini adventure playground.
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While the lodges were comfortable and inviting, other accommodation options showed signs of neglect. Rows of abandoned, prison-like apartments stood in stark contrast, reminding me that parts of the resort desperately need attention. In fact, I even stumbled upon the same style of bungalow from my childhood, complete with matching pink and yellow patio tiles—a nostalgic touch amidst the wear and tear.
So, is Butlin’s Minehead rundown? Not entirely. Thanks to a significant £23 million investment starting in 2024, including over £20 million already spent, many facilities have been upgraded or refurbished. The newly enhanced Skypark stands out as a vibrant area featuring interactive games, a seesaw accessible to disabled children, sunken trampolines, and spacious zones tailored for various age groups and sensory experiences.
Additional improvements include a ‘changing places’ toilet, a conservatory addition to the Beachcomber Inn restaurant, and upgrades to the Studio 36 arena, which now hosts headline acts alongside performances in the Centre Stage area. Shows like Snow White, Peppa Pig, and Mister Maker’s party kept children, including my little one, thoroughly entertained—an area where Butlin’s continues to shine compared to competitors.
Following flooding in 2023, 400 accommodation units have been renovated, with more refurbishments planned. Dining here is affordable, with half-board options allowing access to the Ocean Drive restaurant’s buffet. However, the dining area itself felt tired, with a worn, canteen-like atmosphere and some cleanliness issues—factors in clear need of improvement.
Despite these flaws, Butlin’s Minehead offers great value. Standard rooms start at £24 per person for a four-day stay, while premium options like West Lake chalets and Bayside apartments range from £85 to £145 per person, based on 2026 prices. The numerous free activities, including expansive indoor and outdoor swimming pools, funfairs, and slides, provide excellent entertainment without added costs.
In conclusion, my family and I enjoyed a memorable, budget-friendly holiday packed with fun for all ages. While the resort’s charm and entertainment remain strong, especially for children, the visible mix of renovated and worn-down areas underscores the work still ahead for Butlin’s Minehead. I look forward to seeing how continued investment transforms this iconic resort in the years to come—and I wouldn’t hesitate to return for another family getaway.