Butlin’s at Bognor is an absolute bargain in my opinion (out of school holidays anyway). We’ve had some great day trips there, and I’m ready for more. Here are a few top tips to make the most of your money…
My three year old son loves a day trip to Butlin’s at Bognor, and thanks to the price and range of activities, so do I. It’s mainly thanks to their swimming pool, it’s amazing. Considering the public pool near us is about £12 for the two of us, and is just a pool, I think the Splashpark at Butlin’s is great value.
There are lots of other great things to do and see at Butlin’s though…
Your day ticket for Butlin’s
Last time we went to Butlin’s they were running a deal for £1 for kid’s tickets with a full paying adult (running again on selected weekdays in May 2025). So, £20 for the both of us. You get entry to the swimming pool, live shows and loads of added activities, all for free from 10am to 8pm. Of course there are some that charge too.
I booked online in advance – only the night before – to guarantee the spot as I didn’t want to be turned away after driving the 45 minutes from our house.
Kids under 2 get in free at all times, and when he was under 2, they didn’t check.
*Prices do vary depending on the season, so check the Butlin’s website for the latest info.
Parking at Butlin’s
You can’t park on site if you’re only there for the day, but there is a massive car park near the day ticket holders entrance. It’s pretty spendy though.
When I last went on March 3rd it said it charged the summer price of £11.50 for the day although when I got to it, it only did the winter price of £4.40 (thankfully).
It is super handy though, especially for the end of the day when you have tired kiddies..
There is parking along Bognor seafront just a few minutes walk away, but I’m not sure how much that is.
If you’re going by train, Bognor Regis station is just an 11-minute walk away.
What can you do for free at Butlin’s?
Once you’re in, you’ve got a whole world of entertainment and food at your fingertips. Here’s what you absolutely cannot miss:
🌊 Splash waterworld – Giant flumes, wave pools, a lazy river… this is the highlight and what you should base your day around. You will have to select a time for the pool when you enter the park. Bring your swimwear and towels – this is where the buggy comes in handy for carrying it all.
🎡 Traditional fairground – Think dodgems, a classic carousel, and all those nostalgic funfair vibes. We went on a pirate ship which I assumed just went up and down, but turned out to spin round too, so that was fun. Unfortunately that was just after the sundae so we both of our ‘tummies felt funny’ (Reggie’s words) when we exited that ride!
🎭 Live shows & entertainment – From the high-energy Skyline Gang to tribute acts and magic shows, there are all sorts of different shows going on throughout the day. Check the schedule as soon as you arrive so you don’t miss the best ones and plan your day accordingly.
🕹️ Arcade & soft play – Rainy day? No problem. Hit the arcades for some classic gaming fun (extra cost), or let the little ones (under 1.5m) loose in the indoor soft play area. This closes on the hour, every hour, for cleaning. I’ve never seen that anywhere before, and was very impressed (although Reggie was gutted)!
🚴 Selected classes – I was tempted to take Reggie to the learn to ride a bike class when we got there, but got so distracted by the Hungry Hippos, the timings didn’t work out. Check the app for the best classes of the day to suit your timings.
What costs extra at Butlin’s
There’s more than enough for toddlers to do for free for a day, but if you want more, you can spend extra on the following:
VR-Cade, Escape Room, Laser tag, Batting cage, Archery, Shuffleboard, Balanceability, Climbing wall, High ropes, Pottery painting, Glow pong, and more.
Food at Butlin’s
There are lots of food options at Butlin’s. Last time we went we went to the Beachcomber Inn, a pub with booths (great to trap him in) and a classic pub menu and stocked bar. They were doing ‘kids eat for £1 with an adults meal’ in March 2025 which saved loads – Reggie got a good feast there! And I ate his chips so I was thrilled. I went for a pulled pork chilli, which I’d give 7/10. I was just thrilled to be sitting down after the swim sesh to be honest.
We also had an ice cream sundae to share which I’d give 8/10.
Last time we went to Butlin’s we had a sandwich at the Costa near the pool, which was a terrible decision. I was too busy thinking of the budget. It was one of the worst sandwiches I’ve had – sloppily put together and not enough filling. Also, served with a sour face.
There’s The Diner with burgers, hot dogs, and thick shakes which I’d like to try next time – proper American-style comfort food. There’s also a place for fish and chips, Papa Johns, Burger King and Subway.
You’re welcome to bring your own food in, and there’s a Co-op on site too.
Top tips for a great day out at Butlin’s
✔️ Get there early – More time = more fun! Aim to arrive when doors open. On a day ticket you’re welcome 10-8pm (sometimes 6pm, check).
✔️ Plan your shows – Check the entertainment schedule so you don’t miss the best performances. We’ve seen pantos each time we’ve been, and although there’s been plenty of space, all the best spots at the front fill up fast.
✔️ Pack smart – Bring swimwear for Splash Waterworld, comfy shoes for walking, and a change of clothes.
✔️ Have a good look round – I didn’t actually realise that soft play and puppet area was there the first time I went! There’s also loads outside to explore, playgrounds and all.
✔️ Download the app before you go – this is where you can see everything that’s going on and plan your day. You’ll also find out if it’s a special week with special guests like Stephen Mulhern and Justin Fletcher, or someone just as thrilling.
Raining at Butlin’s
Every time I’ve been to Butlin’s it’s actually been stunning weather, but I think it’d be the perfect rainy day activity. There’s loads to do inside so you’d only miss out on the playgrounds and a few rides.
Staying over at Butlin’s
There are actually some incredible midweek deals for Butlin’s if you’re flexible (think £50 for 4 nights for 4!) but personally, I’d find 4 nights at Butlin’s too much!
At those prices though, you could just book four and stay one or two. There are a few places in Bognor worth a look, and a massive beach just on the other side of the car park too.
Anyway, have a look at the website, and see what you think. We love a Butlin’s day here and there!
