A trip down memory lane to Butlin’s 90s Reloaded Weekender proved to be a rejuvenating escape for a mother of three, momentarily shedding the responsibilities of adulthood for a weekend of pure nostalgia. Clad in silver combat trousers and a bum bag, amidst a throng of like-minded revelers, she was transported back to her youth, reliving the carefree days of teen discos fueled by Smirnoff Ice and pulsating 90s anthems. The weekend, held at Butlin’s resorts across the UK, offers themed breaks catering to various musical eras and genres, creating a vibrant atmosphere of shared memories and collective enthusiasm. For this group of friends, the 90s theme was a perfect fit, amplifying the nostalgic experience.
The resurgence of 90s fashion added another layer of enjoyment to the weekend. From bucket hats and Kappa tracksuits to cycling shorts and shell suits, the iconic trends of the decade were on full display. The fancy dress element further enhanced the festivities, with creative costumes ranging from homemade Hooch bottle ensembles to impersonations of beloved 90s icons. The lighthearted atmosphere and shared appreciation for the era created a sense of camaraderie among the guests. The weekend’s entertainment lineup featured a mix of original 90s artists and contemporary acts paying tribute to the decade’s musical legacy.
The weekend kicked off with a performance by Chesney Hawkes, the former teen idol now accompanied by his grown-up sons, delivering a setlist of 90s hits and his signature anthem, “The One and Only.” The musical journey continued with performances by Black Box, DJ Luck and MC Neat, and Artful Dodger, keeping the energy high and the dancefloor packed. Even midnight felt too early to retire, leading the group to the silent disco, where they could choose their preferred 90s soundtrack through light-up headphones, dancing the night away to everything from Whigfield to Warren G. The structured nature of the Butlin’s Weekender, with accommodation and entertainment included in the price, offered excellent value and eliminated the stress of budgeting during the trip.
Adding to the experience were optional extras like the 90s Bottomless Brunch, featuring a flowing supply of prosecco and cocktails alongside a live DJ set. The build-your-own burger provided a satisfying base for another day of revelry. The afternoon brought pool parties at Butlin’s expansive swimming complex, continuing the festive atmosphere with a DJ spinning tunes by the water. The highlight for this particular attendee was the performance by the rebooted version of East 17, featuring original member Terry Coldwell, bringing back a flood of memories with hits like “House Of Love” and “Stay Another Day.”
Beyond the musical performances, Butlin’s offered a range of activities catering to the “big kid” in everyone. The on-site fairground, complete with waltzers and dodgems, provided a dose of classic amusement park fun. Comedians like Joe Pascquale offered afternoon entertainment, while bowling, mini golf, and pool tables provided additional options for amusement. The Ocean Hotel provided comfortable accommodation for the group of four, with two rooms offering ample space and convenience. While food wasn’t included in the base price, various dining packages were available, allowing guests to tailor their meals to their preferences.
The chosen premium dining package provided access to a bountiful breakfast buffet and a diverse dinner buffet featuring a fresh salad bar, a grill station, and an array of hot meals and desserts. The Butlin’s 90s Reloaded Weekender proved to be a unique and memorable mini-break, offering a potent blend of bonding, brunches, bubbly (both alcoholic and in the hot tub), and, of course, a constant stream of 90s bangers. It offered a chance to reconnect with friends, relive cherished memories, and embrace the carefree spirit of youth, all within the convenient and inclusive environment of a Butlin’s resort. The weekend was a testament to the enduring appeal of 90s culture and the power of nostalgia to transport us back to simpler times.
