Rockaway Beach 2026

23rd January, 2026

A long weekend away at Rockaway Beach music festival at Butlin’s in Bognor Regis is always a great start to a New Year. We don’t know in advance all the bands that are appearing, as many musicians agree to play at the last minute. Bands we enjoyed this year were Idlewild, Soft Play, English Teacher, Public Image Ltd, Inspiral Carpets, punk legends The Members, Steve Lamacq, Coach Party and Stealing Sheep. On Saturday night a highlight was the David Bowie Appreciation party with lots of dancing to his music and watching old films of his life.

Our Hotel suite was comfortable with a balcony overlooking the sea. We booked buffet breakfasts and enjoyed a spa treat on Sunday afternoon. There are a variety of  restaurants on site such as the Beachcomber Inn, Firehouse Grill and Papa John’s Pizza. Walking along the seafront into town on Saturday is always interesting. In the past there has been lots of empty shops in town, but now Bognor Regis town centre seems to be more prosperous and thriving, which is good to see.