What’s it like living in Skegness?
Geography and Housing in Skegness: Where the Land Meets the Sea
Situated on the Lincolnshire coast, Skegness boasts a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty. The town is characterised by its expansive sandy beaches, stretching for miles along the North Sea. Inland, you’ll find a mix of residential neighbourhoods, bustling commercial areas and picturesque countryside.
The housing landscape in Skegness is as varied as its geography. Victorian terraces, Edwardian villas and modern apartments coexist alongside bungalows and detached houses. Many properties offer sea views, adding to the town’s allure. The variety in housing types caters to a range of budgets and lifestyles, attracting families, retirees and holiday home buyers alike.
The town’s geography plays a crucial role in influencing property choices. Homes near the seafront are popular for their stunning vistas and proximity to the beach, but they can also be exposed to harsher weather conditions and coastal erosion. Properties further inland might offer a quieter setting and greater protection from the elements, but they may be less convenient for accessing the beach and amenities.
Skegness’s proximity to the sea also makes flood risk an important consideration. When choosing a property, it’s vital to check its flood risk zone and consider flood insurance options.
Overall, the geography of Skegness offers a unique backdrop for various lifestyles. Whether you’re drawn to the lively seafront or the tranquility of the inland areas, the town provides a mix of housing options to suit different needs and preferences.
Unique Attributes of Skegness: More Than Just a Seaside Resort
Skegness offers more than just seaside fun. With landmarks like the iconic Clock Tower and St Clement’s Church, cultural events like the Skegness Carnival and SO Festival and the natural beauty of the Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve, it’s a must-see destination.
However, Skegness faces challenges beyond its tourist attractions. As highlighted by journalist Madeleine Bunting, the town grapples with economic difficulties, an ageing population and limited access to services. Despite the influx of visitors, many are day-trippers or stay in caravan parks, leading to low spending in the local economy.
These factors have contributed to Skegness and its surrounding areas being among the most deprived in the UK. The reliance on low-paying sectors like hospitality and care, coupled with limited access to education and healthcare, further compounds these challenges.
Neighbourhoods and Amenities in Skegness: Find Your Perfect Fit
Skegness offers a variety of neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct character and appeal.
- Seafront: This bustling area is the heart of Skegness’s tourist scene. With its amusement arcades, restaurants and nightlife, it’s ideal for those seeking a lively atmosphere. Properties here range from guesthouses to modern apartments, many offering stunning sea views.
- North Shore: This quieter residential area is popular with families and retirees. It boasts a more relaxed pace of life while still being within easy reach of the beach and town centre. You’ll find a mix of detached houses, bungalows and semi-detached properties here.
- Winthorpe: Located just south of Skegness, Winthorpe offers a tranquil escape from the town centre. The area features a mix of modern housing developments and older properties, attracting those seeking a peaceful setting with easy access to the countryside.
- Chapel St Leonards: This coastal village, a few miles north of Skegness, offers a more classic seaside experience. Its streets, independent shops and family-friendly atmosphere make it a popular choice for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Skegness boasts a range of amenities to cater to residents’ needs. The town centre offers various shops, supermarkets and independent businesses. There are also several healthcare facilities, including Skegness Hospital and various GP surgeries.
For leisure and recreation, Skegness provides a wealth of options. The town’s expansive beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. The Skegness Pier offers amusement arcades, rides and entertainment venues. Nature lovers can explore the Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve, while those seeking cultural experiences can visit the Embassy Theatre or the Skegness Aquarium.
Skegness’s diverse neighbourhoods and amenities cater to a range of lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a traditional seaside experience, a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly environment, you’re sure to find a neighbourhood that suits your needs.
Architectural Traits and Building Materials in Skegness: A Blend of Old and New
Skegness showcases a mix of architectural styles, reflecting its history as a seaside resort and a growing town.
- Victorian and Edwardian: These styles are prevalent in the town centre and surrounding areas. You’ll find grand Victorian terraces and elegant Edwardian villas, often featuring ornate brickwork, bay windows and decorative balconies.
- Art Deco: This style, popular in the early 20th century, can be seen in some of Skegness’s hotels and entertainment venues. Art Deco buildings are characterised by their geometric shapes, streamlined forms and bold colours.
- Modern: New developments in Skegness often embrace modern architectural styles, with clean lines, open-plan layouts and energy-efficient features. These properties offer contemporary living spaces and cater to the needs of modern families.
- Bungalows: Bungalows are a popular choice in Skegness, particularly among retirees and those seeking single-story living. These properties often feature brick or rendered exteriors and can range from traditional styles to more modern designs.
Building materials in Skegness vary depending on the age and style of the property. Brick is a common material, used in both older and newer constructions. Rendered exteriors are also prevalent, providing a smooth finish and weather protection. Some properties may feature timber cladding or stone accents, adding character and visual interest.
When considering a property in Skegness, it’s important to be aware of the potential implications of different architectural styles and building materials. Older properties may require more maintenance and upkeep, while modern buildings might offer greater energy efficiency.
Flooding Risk and Radon Levels in Skegness: Understanding the Risks
Skegness’s coastal location makes it susceptible to flooding, particularly during periods of high tides and storms. Several areas in the town are designated as flood risk zones, including parts of the seafront and areas near the River Steeping.
When buying a property in Skegness, it’s crucial to check its flood risk zone and consider flood insurance options. The Environment Agency provides flood risk maps and information to help homeowners assess their risk and take appropriate precautions.
Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is another potential environmental risk in Skegness. Some areas in Lincolnshire have been identified as having higher radon levels. While the risk to health is generally low, it’s advisable to have a radon test conducted on your property, especially if it’s located in a high-risk area.
By understanding the potential risks of flooding and radon, you can make informed decisions about property purchases and take necessary steps to protect your investment and your health.
Transportation and Connectivity in Skegness: Getting Around and Beyond
Skegness enjoys good transport links, making it accessible by road, rail and bus.
- Road: The A52 and A158 provide convenient access to Skegness from major towns and cities in Lincolnshire and beyond. The town also has a well-connected network of local roads, making it easy to get around by car.
- Rail: Skegness railway station offers regular services to Nottingham, Grantham and other destinations along the Poacher Line. While the journey to London takes approximately 4 hours, the scenic route through the Lincolnshire countryside makes it a pleasant experience.
- Bus: Stagecoach operates a comprehensive bus network in Skegness, connecting the town centre, seafront and surrounding villages. The bus services provide a convenient and affordable way to get around, especially for those without a car.
Where is the best place to live in Skegness?
Seafront
Why: The Seafront area is at the heart of Skegness’s lively tourist scene. It offers immediate access to the sandy beaches, amusement arcades, restaurants and nightlife. Properties here often come with stunning sea views and the lively atmosphere makes it a popular choice for those who enjoy being in the centre of activity.
Appeal: Ideal for those who love the hustle and bustle of a seaside resort and want to be close to all the attractions.
North Shore
Why: North Shore is known for its quieter residential environment, making it popular with families and retirees. The area provides a more relaxed pace of life while remaining within easy reach of the beach and town centre.
Appeal: Offers a mix of detached houses, bungalows and semi-detached properties, combining convenience with a tranquil setting.
Winthorpe
Why: Located just south of Skegness, Winthorpe is appreciated for its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to the countryside. It features a blend of modern housing developments and older properties, making it an attractive option for those seeking a serene escape from the town centre.
Appeal: Perfect for those who want a quiet residential area with easy access to both town amenities and nature.
Chapel St Leonards
Why: This coastal village is a few miles north of Skegness and offers a more quintessential seaside experience. The area is known for its independent shops, family-friendly environment and slower pace of life.
Appeal: Ideal for those looking for a laid-back coastal village with a close-knit community.
Skegness Town Centre
Why: Living in the town centre provides easy access to a wide range of amenities, including shops, supermarkets, healthcare facilities and entertainment venues. It’s the most central location for those who want to be close to the action and conveniences.
Appeal: Offers the advantage of having everything within walking distance, making it a practical choice for those who prefer urban living.
South Skegness
Why: This area includes more recent residential developments and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. It benefits from proximity to local schools and parks, making it suitable for families with children.
Appeal: Provides modern living spaces with good access to educational and recreational facilities.
Burgh le Marsh
Why: Although not directly in Skegness, this nearby village is popular for those seeking a quieter rural lifestyle while still being close to the coast. It offers a more rural setting with good transport links to Skegness.
Appeal: Perfect for those who want to enjoy the peace of the countryside without being too far from the amenities of Skegness.
