I was recently sent ‘The Nation’s Host: Butlin’s and the Story of the British Seaside’. You won’t know this, because it’s not something I shout about but I have hundreds of books. Some for reading, some for learning, some to look at, some that have never been opened. I do judge a book by its cover, and it will decide if I’m going to part with my cold hard cash. I was very happy to see this one has a very cute, retro looking cover.
I’m not going to share too much of the content, I think that really would spoil the book for the many Butlin’s lovers out there. But it really is a bit of a treat, Kathryn Ferry has done a beautiful job. It’s 305 (minus index and references ) of vintage prettiness.
The image above is one the particularly struck me as I feel like it really encapsulates what Butlin’s was for us. We did activities if we wanted, we relaxed when we felt like it, we got a food package but could’ve taken along our own food – many people did! It really is a ‘please yourself’ kind of holiday.
I think one of the loveliest things about the book, is that is a glimpse into the rich history of one of the nation’s most loved holiday destinations. I remember being in school, and hearing people talking about where they were heading to in the summer holidays and 9 times out of 10 someone would be heading to Butlin’s for a week or two.
If you love well written history, rich retro art work, and Butlin’s, this book is pretty much a must have item. I adore it and have found out so, so much. Read more about The Nation’s Host: Butlin’s and the Story of the British Seaside on the Butlin’s Blog.
