How to Get to Ingoldmells by Train & Bus

Ingoldmells is one of Lincolnshire’s most popular seaside destinations, sitting just north of Skegness along the coast. Known for Fantasy Island, long sandy beaches and easy access to holiday parks and attractions, it is a place that lends itself perfectly to travelling by public transport. One of the simplest and most convenient ways to reach Ingoldmells is by train to Skegness, followed by a short bus journey along the seafront.

This guide explains exactly how to get to Ingoldmells by train and bus, what to expect along the way, and how buses connect Ingoldmells with other nearby seaside towns and attractions.

Getting to Skegness by Train

Skegness is the main rail gateway for the Lincolnshire coast and is well served by regular train services from across the Midlands and beyond. Travelling by train is often the fastest and most straightforward option, especially during busy summer months when road traffic into the resort can be heavy.

East Midlands Railway operates the majority of direct services into Skegness, with additional connections provided by other operators depending on where you start your journey. Many routes involve a change at Grantham, which acts as the main interchange for services heading east towards the coast.

Typical journey times include:

• Nottingham to Skegness in under two hours
• Boston to Skegness in around 35 minutes
• Derby to Skegness in just over two and a half hours
• Leicester to Skegness in around three hours
• Sheffield to Skegness in just over three hours

If you are travelling from London or further north, changing at Grantham is common, with the final leg of the journey taking roughly an hour and a half. Trains run regularly throughout the day, particularly during peak holiday seasons.

Skegness railway station is centrally located and well equipped, with toilets, step free access, ticket facilities and bicycle storage. From the moment you step off the train, the seaside atmosphere is immediately apparent.

From Skegness Station to the Bus Interchange

Once you arrive in Skegness, reaching Ingoldmells is straightforward. Skegness Interchange, where buses depart, is close to the station and easy to find. On exiting the station, you will see bus stops and taxi ranks directly outside, making onward travel simple even if you are unfamiliar with the town.

If you have time to spare, Skegness beach and the seafront are around a 15 minute walk from the station, passing along Lumley Road towards the clock tower and promenade.

Bus Travel from Skegness to Ingoldmells

The most popular and scenic way to travel from Skegness to Ingoldmells is by bus. Regular services run throughout the day, connecting Skegness with Ingoldmells, Fantasy Island and Chapel St Leonards.

The Skegness Seasiders are particularly well known. These buses operate frequently from early morning until late evening, making them ideal whether you are travelling for a day trip or heading to accommodation in Ingoldmells. Services typically begin around 6am, with the last buses leaving Skegness just after 11pm during the main season.

The journey from Skegness to Ingoldmells usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on where you get off. Along the way, buses stop at key locations including:

• Skegness Bus Station and Interchange
• Butlins Skegness
• Fantasy Island
• Ingoldmells village stops
• Holiday parks along the coast

Many of the Seasider buses are open top during the warmer months, offering excellent views along the promenade and coastline. They are designed for visitors, with easy access, space for pushchairs, and clear announcements for each stop.

Arriving in Ingoldmells

Ingoldmells itself is compact and easy to explore on foot. Buses stop close to Fantasy Island, the main shopping areas, the beach, and numerous holiday parks. Whether you are visiting for the day or staying for a longer break, everything is within easy reach.

The bus stops are clearly marked, and return services back to Skegness run frequently, so you are not tied to a strict schedule. This flexibility makes Ingoldmells an easy destination even if you are unfamiliar with the area.

Other Places You Can Reach by Bus

One of the biggest advantages of staying in Ingoldmells or Skegness is how well connected the coastline is by bus. From the same routes that serve Ingoldmells, you can easily travel to several other popular destinations without needing a car.

To the south, buses run back into Skegness, connecting you with:

• Skegness town centre
• The beach and pier
• Skegness Aquarium
• Natureland Seal Sanctuary
• The boating lake and promenade attractions

To the north and further along the coast, services continue towards:

• Chapel St Leonards, a quieter seaside village with its own beach and promenade
• Coastal holiday parks and caravan sites
• Attractions such as Hardy’s Animal Farm and other family friendly stops

These services make it easy to explore different parts of the Lincolnshire coast during your stay, whether you want a lively resort atmosphere or something more relaxed.

Why Public Transport Works So Well Here

Travelling to Ingoldmells by train and bus removes much of the stress associated with driving to a busy seaside resort. There is no need to worry about parking, traffic delays or navigating unfamiliar roads. The combination of frequent trains into Skegness and regular bus services along the coast makes the journey simple and accessible.

The buses are designed with visitors in mind and run often enough that you can plan your day flexibly. For families, day trippers and holidaymakers staying in Skegness or Ingoldmells, public transport offers a reliable and enjoyable way to get around.

Final Thoughts

Getting to Ingoldmells in Lincolnshire is easy, affordable and surprisingly scenic when you travel by train to Skegness and continue by bus. With regular rail connections from across the country and frequent coastal bus services linking Skegness, Ingoldmells and Chapel St Leonards, you can enjoy the seaside without the hassle of driving.

Whether you are visiting Fantasy Island, spending time on the beach or exploring neighbouring resorts, travelling this way lets you focus on enjoying your time on the Lincolnshire coast from the moment your journey begins.