Welcome to Butlins Memorabilia, Celebrating Butlin's with memories, photos and stories
A small video showing you highlights of this website
Welcome to my website, Butlins Memorabilia! I’m thrilled to share my collection and personal stories, along with those of fellow Butlins enthusiasts. Butlins is so much more than a holiday camp; it has a rich history that’s truly fascinating. This site is dedicated to the loving memory of Sir William (Billy) Butlin, Harry John Butlin, and everyone who has cherished memories of this wonderful company, no matter the time period.
I invite everyone to explore the website and join my Facebook group to share your special memories or showcase your collections. I created this site in my spare time, hoping to inspire smiles and fond recollections.
The founder of Butlin's - Sir William Butlin (Billy)
The image behind this text highlights a stunning building, a genuine gem that is carefully maintained by the wonderful staff at Butlins Skegness. During my time at the Skegness resort, I discovered a deep appreciation for this treasure and its significance to us all. The Butlin spirit is deeply ingrained, and its importance is substantial. For me, it created a bridge to my hero and the founder of the company, Sir William Butlin, affectionately referred to as Billy.
I first encountered Butlin's when it was known as Holiday Worlds. My favorite location was Somerwest World in Minehead, which filled my life with joy that I still cherish today. During a period of deep depression and loneliness, Butlin's provided me with much-needed solace. My admiration for the brand flourished as I learned about its founder, Sir William Butlin. This relationship with my hero only strengthened my affection for the name, paving the way for the launch of the first website that has led you to this site.
Butlins changes from camp to resorts
In 1999, I applied for a job at Butlin's Minehead, hoping to transition from being a camper to becoming part of the staff. I went for an interview in Brighton, with my friend Tracy by my side for encouragement, and was delighted to be offered the position of room attendant. After confirming my start date, I bravely relocated to Somerset as a teenager. However, I was shocked to find that Somerwest World had vanished upon my arrival at the camp.
I must admit that the loss of my Butlin's left me feeling utterly devastated and emotionally wounded. While working at the chalets in Rockpool Grove, Ocean Point, I found it difficult to come to terms with the changes. However, there was a significant moment during my walks outside the camp that helped reshape my feelings about my favorite holiday destination. On a corner of the road, I encountered an old friend—the Monorail Train—sitting on the grass, serving as a reminder that my Butlin's had not disappeared; it had simply transformed. I felt compelled to find a way to honor my Butlin's, though I was initially unsure of how to start. Nevertheless, a renewed sense of purpose emerged as I accepted the changes made by the owner at that time, Rank. (To read more about my story and how I started my collection, please click on these words)
Me saying "Hello" to you all
Here’s a video I made just for you, where I express my love for the name Butlin's. I was a bit anxious about sharing it with the world, but I hope you enjoy it! Plus, you’ll get a look at my unique bedspread, which my talented mother, Annette Banks, made for me.
In this video, I delve into my love for the name and offer a cheerful invitation to visit my website. My unwavering goal has been to help you recall those happy memories and bring a smile to your face, no matter which Butlin's era you remember fondly, as I honour them all.
Your memories are so very important and a part of the Butlin's story, if you wish to share this on this site, please on these words
In honour of you Sir with much love
In celebrating the legacy of Sir Billy Butlin, we recognize that there will never be another individual quite like him. I deeply admire you, Sir Billy Butlin, and it is an honor to feature your story on this website. Everything you encounter here is a reflection of your relentless pursuit of excellence and your ability to create something truly remarkable. You are a source of inspiration for me and for all who come to this site.
To all Members of staff of all eras of Butlins
Thank you so much for everything you've done to help us create these wonderful memories. Each of you is essential to this website and our community. You all hold a special place in the history of this incredible company and keep helping us make more memories. Whether you worked in the camps or at the head office, and no matter what year it was, you all share the spirit of this man. I’m sending my love to all of you and can’t thank you enough for your dedication. As a former staff member of Butlin's, Minehead in 1999, I appreciate your efforts deeply.
Thank you to all the members of our group, you are fantastic!
It is important to note that the Butlins Memorabilia website and www.butlinsmemorabilia.co.uk do not function as the official Butlins website. The exclusive official site for Butlins can be accessed at www.butlins.com. The items you encounter on this website are either part of my collection (Mark, the owner) or derived from stories shared by members of the Butlins Memorabilia social media groups. I would like to express that Butlins and their owners have not approached me to develop this website, nor do they provide any funding for its upkeep. I am appreciative of their support in allowing me to display these items and share fond memories. It is crucial to understand that the Butlins Memorabilia website is not officially connected to Butlins in any way.