Jackson’s Amusements in Mablethorpe is commemorating its centenary, marking 100 years of providing enjoyment and amusement to visitors to the Lincolnshire coast. The family-managed business, a cherished part of the British seaside experience, has endured various challenges, both of the physical and metaphorical nature, to reach this landmark. The current proprietor, Gareth Cammack, reflects on the hurdles crossed throughout the years, such as the severe North Sea flood of 1953, personal grief and the recent global health crisis.
Established by Billy Jackson in 1925, the entertainment arcade has continued to play a crucial role in the life of Mablethorpe’s community, with many generations of the Cammack family dedicating themselves to its preservation. After the 1953 flood which heavily impacted the east coast of England, the family rebuilt their enterprise from scratch. Gareth’s father and grandfather, Peter and Bill Cammack respectively, were vital in maintaining the life of the arcade, even in the face of the passage of time and economic setbacks.
With the changing face of the industry, Jackson’s Amusements has demonstrated its ability to evolve, incorporating new trends such as cashless machines and broadening its appeal with attractions like the resort’s land train and the popular sand train. Despite increasing operating costs, Gareth maintains an optimistic outlook, witnessing a revival in local tourism as families choose to holiday closer to home.
Local inhabitant Chris Dady from Coningsby vouches for the arcade’s lasting appeal, finding joy in the simple pleasures of penny pusher machines and sharing her earnings with children. Jackson’s Amusements, with its lively ambiance and air of nostalgia, continues to represent the essence of the traditional British seaside outing, attracting both locals and tourists to the Lincolnshire coastline.
