Colin and Paula Newton, a couple from Derbyshire, abandoned a three-night stay at Butlin’s Skegness less than a day after checking in, saying they found their accommodation in an unsanitary condition. The pair, both aged 63, had paid £249 for the break.
What the Newtons say happened
The couple arrived for their stay on Friday 26 June and reported noticing an unpleasant smell on entering their unit shortly after the advertised 4pm check-in time. They told local reporters they spotted what they believe to have been dried vomit on the carpet, skirting board and wall.
"This young lad comes in and he cleans up the vomit the best he could with it being dried on, it would have taken a jackhammer to get some of the chunks up,"
Mr Newton, a retired police officer, said attempts to get help using the telephone number on the key card were unsuccessful. The couple say that after being told staff would attend, they left for a meal; on return they found the visible soiling had not been fully removed and that the curtains had thick lumps of what they described as chocolate. They decided to leave the resort about 16 hours into the stay.
Resort response and refund
Butlin’s has acknowledged the couple’s complaint, saying the experience "falls well below the standards expected" and has provided the Newtons with a full refund of their booking. The operator has issued an apology to the pair.
Practical context for local holidaymakers
This case highlights a few points visitors should bear in mind when checking into holiday accommodation:
- Inspect the unit on arrival and document any concerns with photographs.
- Report issues immediately to reception and note the time and names of staff you speak to.
- Keep records of booking details and any contact attempts in case a formal complaint is needed later.
| Detail | What is known |
|---|---|
| Booking cost | £249 for three nights |
| Check-in date | Friday 26 June |
| Time in accommodation | Around 16 hours before leaving |
| Resort action | Apology issued and full refund provided |
Local hospitality and tourism providers rely on repeat custom and positive word-of-mouth from Derbyshire and other visitors to coastal resorts such as Skegness. Incidents where guests report unacceptable cleanliness standards can have reputational consequences for both holiday operators and the wider local tourism economy.
InfoRadar approached Butlin’s for any further comment beyond the apology and refund statement but received no additional detail about any investigation or remedial action for the specific accommodation unit involved.
Anyone who experiences similar problems is advised to record evidence at the scene, ask for an incident reference from staff, and pursue a formal complaint through the operator’s published customer-service channels if an immediate resolution is not offered.
