Lonely Planet labels Skegness 'a tacky spectacle'

The Lonely Planet described Skegness as a place where "culture vultures would probably run a mile"

A Lincolnshire seaside resort has been described as "tacky" in the latest edition of a leading travel guidebook.

The new Lonely Planet guide to Great Britain described Skegness as "good family fun if you immerse yourself in the whole tacky spectacle".

The guide warns that "culture vultures will probably run a mile".

James Gilbert from East Lindsey District Council, who promotes tourism in Skegness, said the guide's views were 30 years out-of-date.

'Bingo and candy-floss'

"The town is becoming better known for its culture and we've done a lot of work with partners to create a more cultural atmosphere," said Mr Gilbert.

"We have got culture, we have got the arts - we host the SO Festival each July, which is one of the biggest art festivals in the UK," he said.

The guide goes on to describe Skegness as "the ABC of the English seaside - amusements, bingo and candy-floss, accompanied by a constant soundtrack of tweets, klaxons and bells from the abundant slot machines and fairground rides" but does praise the beach for having "better than average yellow sand".

Lonely Planet's editor David Else said: "There is nothing wrong with Skeggy, but we tell it like it is.

"I personally am a great fan of old school seaside resorts - but of course they are not for everybody.

"If we're not honest then people will stop buying the guide."