Skegness is a part of The Countrywide Great Tour route this summer. We reveal some of the best restaurants and places to stay in the Lincolnshire coastal town

Great British Life: Deckchairs on Skegness beach. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Deckchairs on Skegness beach. (Getty Images/iStockphoto) (Image: Archant)

The Countrywide Great Tour begins on 4 July 2015 and takes place over 64 days visiting various coastal locations across the UK. Cyclists will begin to arrive in the seaside town of Skegness on the afternoon of 3 August after a ride down the coast from Kingston-upon-Hull.

If you’re taking part yourself or supporting a friend or family member in the tour, there’s plenty on offer in Skegness – the traditional seaside resort is a fun retreat for children and adults alike, even if you don’t stay at the Butlin’s holiday park. Home to a beautiful blue flag sandy beach and a variety of popular pubs and specialist cuisine restaurants, Skegness is also home to stylish boutique hotels and top-notch bed and breakfasts.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5puU1bQiSM

An aerial view of Skegness

Where to eat

San Rufo’s

Justly named after the Italian owner’s home town, San Rufo in Campania – a region know for its gastronomy. The restaurant boasts a diverse menu of traditional Italian fare and modern favourites – the chilli-infused Pizza Diavola is a highlight. Recommended for its relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere and family friendly approach – you can even watch the chefs at work.

Saffron

With a focus on impeccable service and a comfy atmosphere, the traditional Indian restaurant and takeaway presents an inspired menu – where else can you order a chocolate masala? The clean and contemporary interior is described as a ‘curry lover’s paradise’, make sure you try the Shahi Nalli – a lamb shank slow-cooked in yogurt with garlic, ripe tomatoes and fresh coriander.

Popa’s Bar

Nestled just meters from the beach in Anderby Creek, Popa’s has been run by husband and wife team, Andy and Sam for the past five year. The bar has amassed rave reviews for the seasonal pub-style menu and ever-friendly staff. All meat is locally sourced from the nearby Grange Farm shop – we’ve heard that the steak with a stilton and bacon sauce is ‘to die for’.

Where to stay

The Quorn Hotel

Overlooking the pier, gardens and beach, The Quorn’s location on the Promenade is the perfect spot to explore Skegness from. Boasting 24 en-suite rooms with classic décor including exposed beams in the relaxed bar and a sea-front restaurant that welcomes large parties.

The Kildare

Topping the Trip Advisor charts, The Kildare appeared in (and won) the Channel 4 show ‘3 In A Bed’. From its quiet, yet central location The Kildare offers clean, tastefully decorated ensuite rooms. Plus, a ‘sun-trap’ of a patio garden – full of pretty hanging baskets and flower tubs – perfect to relax in before heading off to the bustling sea front.

Beeston Lodge

Not far from the sandy shores of Skegness, Beeston Lodge attracts loyal tenants year after year. Hailed for hosting skills that make you feel like one of the family, and a fun, chilled out atmosphere created by the friendly bar and open door policy – no curfews here. The B&B serves a recommended full English breakfast to set you up for the day.

Do you want to take part in the Great tour? To enter, head over to the Countrywide Great Tour website.