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Events this weekend - and beyond!

We like to bring you news stories of forthcoming events - it spreads the word, encourages more people to book and shows just how vibrant the Naturist scene is in the UK. However - I'm happy to say - there are far too many to promote them all individually and so here is a complete list of all the events happening over just the next couple of weeks. Enjoy! And don't forget that we are always looking for reports on great gatherings for the magazine and elsewhere...
 
St Annes Beach Day
August 5
Join us on the fabulous St Annes beach just south of Blackpool.
Lancashire
 
Sport @ TANDO
August 5
Fancy badminton, volleyball, petanque, spikeball or go for a run!
Tyne & Wear
 
Chester Swim
August 5
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Nats, with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Wirral
 
South Forest Swim
August 5
Swim naturally in your local indoor complex with pool and flume, children’s pool, sauna, Jacuzzi.
Nottinghamshire
 
GBSD Birmingham Swim
August 5
Spectrum swim meets most Saturdays at the Morris Centre
West Midlands
 
Swim Blackpool
August 5
Join us for a couple of hours in a warm, friendly & safe environment and the pub afterwards!
Lancashire
 
Corton Beach Day
August 6
Cath and Nigel will be waiting to greet you on Corton beach, so bring a picnic!
Suffolk
 
Cardiff Sunday Meet Up
August 6
A friendly, clothing optional, coffee meet up.
Glamorgan
 
Ryedale Swim
August 6
Fortnightly swim
North Yorkshire
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
August 6
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Jupiter Artland Garden
August 6
A return visit to this amazing garden.
West Lothian
 
Potteries Swim
August 6
Swim and relax in a pleasant, friendly environment, alternate Sundays.
Staffordshire
 
Glasgow Swim
August 6
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas in a friendly, welcoming environment.
Lanarkshire
 
Plymouth Swim
August 7
Lane swimming as well as for the less energetic.
Devon
 
Shaftesbury Lido
August 8
Heated 25m pool with life guards.
Dorset
 
The Chat
August 8
Online chat and banter about whatever you want.
Northern Ireland
 
Natram Walk
August 9
Join us for a 12 mile walk up Barley.
West Sussex
 
Aquasol Swim Bristol
August 9
Meet most Wednesdays at the Jubilee pool
Avon
 
GBSD Male Naturist Swim
August 10
Join us for this male only swim in Manchester.
Lancashire
 
Identity N@T
August 11 to 13
Everyone welcome to the Diversity & Inclusivity celebration @ Liverpool Sun & Air Society.
Merseyside
 
Great Missenden Walk
August 11
An 8 mile walk through the Misbourne Valley & parts of the Chiltern Hills.
Buckinghamshire
 
Shaftesbury Lido
August 11
Heated 25m pool with life guards.
Dorset
 
Club Naturel Swim
August 11
Fridays alternating between afternoons & evening swims.
Norfolk
 
Watford Swims
August 11
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'! 
Hertfordshire
 
Naked Pub Night
August 11
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
 
GBSD Kerensa Cottage
August 11
Bring lunch & water, not toilets, croquet & other games available.
Somerset
 
Open Weekend
August 12 & 13
Ribble Valley Club welcomes you to our open weekend; heated pool, sauna, hot tub etc. and evening activities in the club house. Bar open at 8pm.
Lancashire
 
Wigton Swim
August 12
A monthly swim at the Wigton Pool.
Cumbria
 
TROC Swim
August 12
Monthly swim with gym also available.
Tyne & Wear
 
GBSD Birmingham Swim
August 12
Spectrum swim meets most Saturdays at the Morris Centre
West Midlands
 
Peterborough Lido
August 12
FINAL swim in this 1930s Lido with 3 heated pools and café.
Cambridgeshire
 
Sinnington Walk
August 13
A 6.2 mile circular walk, undulating with some low to moderate hills.
North Yorkshire
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
August 13
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Scotney Castle Gardens
August 13
A visit to this National Trust property, non-naturist partners welcome.
Kent
 
Prested Hall Swim
August 13
Pool, sauna, steam room, garden area and licenced restaurant/Bistro.
Essex
 
Glasgow Swim
August 13
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas in a friendly, welcoming environment.
Lanarkshire
 
Woodland Picnic
August 14
Bring your packed lunch & join us for a picnic & friendly games  or just relax.
Flintshire
 
Garden Visit
August 15
Clothes optional visit to Gileston Manor gardens, followed by afternoon tea & dogs welcome.
Vale of Glamorgan
 
Boys in the Buff
August 15
Clothing optional performance at the Edinburgh fringe.
Midlothian
 
Aquasol Swim Bristol
August 16
Meet most Wednesdays at the Jubilee pool
Avon
 
Natram walk Friston Forest
August 17
Join us for an 11 mile walk on the South Downs near Eastbourne.
East Sussex
 
GBSD Male Naturist Swim
August 17
Join us for this male only swim in Manchester.
Lancashire
 
Club Naturel Swim
August 18
Fridays alternating between afternoons & evening swims.
Norfolk
Watford Swims
August 18
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'! 
Hertfordshire
 
Naked Pub Night
August 18
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
 
Stay Wild & Swim Naked
August 18
GBSD 10 minute walk through Marles Wood to the hidden swim spot of the River Ribble.
Lancashire
 
Boules & Sport Melee
August 19 & 20
Boules played on the Sunday for all levels, or enjoy water volleyball, miniten, pickleball or swim.
Buckinghamshire
 
GBSD Meet n Greet at Ringstead Bay
August 19
Join us for the day with a mass dip at noon.
Dorset
 
The Gibberd Gardens
August 19
Bring a picnic & enjoy a few hours of tranquillity in this Grade II listed garden.
Essex
 
Walk the Hoo Peninsula
August 19
Join us for an 11 mile stroll across the remote Hoo Peninsular & swim in a sheltered bay.
North Kent
 
Swim Bury St. Edmunds
August 19
A regular swim plus sauna & steam room run by MNSC.
Suffolk
 
GBSD Birmingham Swim
August 19
Spectrum swim meets most Saturdays at the Morris Centre
West Midlands
 
Chester Swim
August 19
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Nats, with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Wirral
 
South Forest Swim
August 19
NEW START TIME, limited numbers at this indoor pool complex with flume, children’s pool, sauna & Jacuzzi.
Nottinghamshire
 
Ryedale Club Swim
August 20
Fortnightly swim at Derwent Pool.
Yorkshire
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
August 20
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Swim at Haddington
August 20
25m pool, children’s pool, sauna, steam room, sports hall & café.
East Lothian
 
Indoor Badminton
August 20
Play at Haddington, plus access to the sauna, steam room and have a swim if you wish.
East Lothian
 
Potteries Swim
August 20
Swim and relax in a pleasant, friendly environment, alternate Sundays.
Staffordshire
 
Glasgow Swim
August 20
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas in a friendly, welcoming environment.
Lanarkshire
 
My thanks to David Smith for putting the list together... 
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash

More news from the GBSD desk – and several new swims with a difference!

With luck, by the time these newly added Great British Skinny Dips take place, the jet stream will have decided it’s had enough of soaking and freezing us and will have graciously allowed summer to return. One of the new adds is a return to Petersfield Lido – and isn’t it fantastic when venues enjoy us nudies so much they happily schedule more events? The other two GBSDs are particularly exciting (to me, anyway) – one, because it’s hosted by a wild swimming group, and the other, because it's in the wilds of northern Scotland. Wild!
 
August 18
Stay wild and swim naked, Blackburn, Lancashire
Says organiser Elaine Nuttall:  ‘I’m very excited to be holding this event with our swim group, Lancashire’s stay wild wild swim, helping to raise funds for the British Heart foundation, working alongside British Naturism, too. I lost my mum to heart disease and this is my first opportunity to raise vital funds and awareness, as well as, hopefully, bringing awareness of Naturism too and helping people to become more comfortable in their own skin.’
August 27
Petersfield Lido, Petersfield, Hampshire
September 16
Findhorn Beach, (pictured) Findhorn Forres, Moray, Scotland
The most northerly GBSD in the UK, according to organiser Alan Ellison. Keep an eye out for seals and dolphins!
 
And there are plenty more GBSDs for you to enjoy in August and September. Despite the rotten weather, BN events this summer, whether dips or Naked Heart Walks or other activities,  have been well-attended and are raising lots of much-needed dosh for our charity partner the British Heart Foundation. Let’s keep it going!
 

Farne Island boat trip - amazing weather!

28 naked guests enjoyed amazing weather for the return trip to the Farne Islands. Departure at 15.30 came with reports of unsettled sea and a suggestion from our skipper that we forgo the Islands and instead head up the coast. 
On the return journey arctic terns and puffins flew by the boat. There were few boats out sailing, and kayaks, those that we did see gave us a cheery wave as we cheekily past them!
What incredible events there are available to us! Let's make the most of them...

Image: Billy Ritchie

INF Focus - latest issue

British Naturism is the UK member of the International Naturist Federation, the global organisation for Naturists that exists to represent, support and coordinate Naturist activity worldwide. If you are a BN member, you are automatically a member of the INF! You can find out more at inf-fni.com. 
Their newsletter - Focus - is published every two months and provides an update as to what’s going on in the INF and beyond
The latest issue is out now and is available via the INF website

Naturist visit to the Towner Art Gallery, Eastbourne

Looking for something different in your Naturist life? Join East Sussex Naturists on a return visit to the Towner Art Gallery, in the heart of Eastbourne on Wednesday August 23rd. Guests will have access to the Barbara Hepworth exhibition and the Towner 100 exhibition.
Barbara Hepworth's Modernist sculptures and other work are well known and she was the leading artist in the St Ives colony in the 1940's. A great resource of her work and life can be found at https://artsandculture.google.com/project/barbara-hepworth.
Other information, tickets and more can be found here
Image: David Owens

Naked Heart Walk - RSPB Rainham Marshes - a report

RSPB Rainham Marshes, near Purfleet in Essex is a jewel amongst an unusual setting, writes Colin Taylor.
Our Naked Heart Walk for British Heart Foundation in late July was a great success! The reserve is a former MOD firing range which has now been taken over by the RSPB. On the southern perimeter is the Thames and walkers viewed a huge cruise ship pass by, heading to the sea, as they walked round the flat marshland amongst the pools and viewing hides.
To the north we saw the High Speed trains whistle by on their way to St Pancras or to the Kent coast, so fast that if the passengers had looked out they would have had just a fleeting view of some naked walkers. Blink and look again to verify this unusual sight and they would be a mile down the track, out of sight. Behind that line are heavy industrial units and to the west we saw the sun setting over London. The two-storey building that houses the shop and café has magnificent viewing windows where we could see the Thames and the whole of the reserve.
39 walkers left from the café and descended via a metal walkway onto the almost circular route around the reserve. Because of dangerous footpaths under repair we had to retrace our steps from the fist viewing hide to complete the walk, initially parallel to the Thames walkway and then deeper into the reserve and then turn back and retrace steps to the cafe. The weather, contrary to predicted rain in the forecast was splendid and the sun shone throughout the walk. We were joined by three volunteers from the British Heart Foundation who acted as marshals for our group and delivered BHF pins and wristbands to all participants.

Join ESN at Scotney Castle!

Come and join East Sussex Naturists for a unique and liberating experience as they explore the stunning Scotney Castle gardens and get close to nature on the evening of Sunday August 13. It's not often we get the chance to visit a property in the ownership of the National Trust, so do make the most of it!
The cost is £13 per person for entry with a picnic option at £12.50 per person. 
Find out more and book your place!

Naked Heart Walk - Bishampton - a report

Whilst viewing the North West region’s collection of Naked Heart Walks and Great British Skinny Dip events in advance, I had visions of this event being the most difficult to sell and to accomplish any kind of real success. Perhaps this was fuelled by some suggestions of the venue not being suitable for a walk, or may be the slow response regarding early ticket sales.
I needn't have worried! Because it was a 'double' event (Charity Walk and Skinny Dip) it gave us a springboard for reaching out to two separate sources of interest, making it even more appealing. The open water swimming in the large lake was far more popular than anticipated, thus attracting Naturists with alternative interests from walking.
As for the walk being shorter - well it didn’t really deter anyone at all and I came to realise that the Naturists in areas that are not really well served with events were really grateful for us taking the show on the road. They were completely happy to mingle and socialise with other attendees,  engaging in conversation whilst clothes-free enjoying the Worcestershire summer sunshine.
We even attracted a few new Naturists, who were nervous at the start, but perfectly comfortable once they realised how quickly they began to enjoy being clothes free - not one of the 60 guests remained clothed throughout the day. My wife spoke to two of the newbies at length - Kelly from Merseyside and Carisa from Birmingham and they were even happy to be photographed Naturally. I am 100% sure we will return to this superb venue with its fabulous facilities in 2024.
nakedheartwalk.org.uk
Ron O’Hare (NW Organiser / PRO).

Events this weekend - and beyond!

We like to bring you news stories of forthcoming events - it spreads the word, encourages more people to book and shows just how vibrant the Naturist scene is in the UK. However - I'm happy to say - there are far too many to promote them all individually and so here is a complete list of all the events happening over just the next couple of weeks. Enjoy! And don't forget that we are always looking for reports on great gatherings for the magazine and elsewhere...
 
Boat Trip
July 29
Naked boat trip around the Farne Islands
Northumberland
 
Worsley Swim
July 29
NW Naturists swim with optional massage, drinks & homemade cakes.
Greater Manchester
 
GBSD Birmingham
July 29
Spectrum swim meets most Saturdays at the Morris Centre
West Midlands
 
GBSD Letchworth Outdoor Pool
July 29
We are going back for another skinny dip in this excellent outdoor pool.
Hertfordshire
 
GBSD at Didcot Wave Pool
July 29
Indoor pool with wave machine.
Oxfordshire
 
Naturist Fishing
July 30
A Sunday of naturist fishing or relaxing around the beautiful privately owned Norton Fishing Lakes.
Suffolk
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
July 30
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Glasgow Swim
July 30
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas in a friendly, welcoming environment.
Lanarkshire
 
GBSD Marbury Lido
July 30
BN hosts this evening swim in aid of BHF.
Cheshire
 
LAMMAS Camping Festival
July 31 to August 5
A camping break of summer fun & escape including a beach day!
Flintshire
 
Beacon Tarn NHW
August 1
Visiting Beacon Tarn for this annual NHW, A double event with Shap Lido
Cumbria
 
GBSD Shap Lido
August 1
Swim this fantastic lido.
Cumbria
 
Sugar Hill Walk
August 2
Join us for this 11 mile walk over Sugar Hill.
Wiltshire
 
Aquasol Swim
August 2
A weekly swim in Bristol.
Avon
 
Houghton Lodge Gardens
August 3
The gardens themselves are a delightful mixture of formal planting and more natural settings.
Hampshire
 
GBSD Male Naturist Swim
August 3
Join us for this male only swim in Manchester.
Lancashire
 
Camping & Bunkhouse Weekend
August 4 to August 6
Bloody Bridge Camping is opening for a weekend of activities or to just chill out.
County Down
 
Club Naturel Swim
August 4
Fridays alternating between afternoons & evening swims.
Norfolk
 
GBSD Ladies Only
August 4
This Clothing Optional swim in a privately owned pool in Old Buckenham.
Norfolk
 
Watford Swims
August 4
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'! 
Hertfordshire
 
Naked Pub Night
August 4
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
 
St Annes Beach Day
August 5
Join us on the fabulous St Annes beach just south of Blackpool.
Lancashire
 
Chester Swim
August 5
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Nats, with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Wirral
 
South Forest Swim
August 5
Swim naturally in your local indoor complex with pool and flume, children’s pool, sauna, Jacuzzi.
Nottinghamshire
 
GBSD Birmingham Swim
August 5
Spectrum swim meets most Saturdays at the Morris Centre
West Midlands
 
Swim Blackpool
August 5
Join us for a couple of hours in a warm, friendly & safe environment and the pub afterwards!
Lancashire
 
Corton Beach Day
August 6
Cath and Nigel will be waiting to greet you on Corton beach, so bring a picnic!
Suffolk
 
Cardiff Sunday Meet Up
August 6
A friendly, clothing optional, coffee meet up.
Glamorgan
 
Ryedale Swim
August 6
Fortnightly swim
North Yorkshire
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
August 6
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Jupiter Artland Garden
August 6
A return visit to this amazing garden.
West Lothian
 
Potteries Swim
August 6
Swim and relax in a pleasant, friendly environment, alternate Sundays.
Staffordshire
 
Glasgow Swim
August 6
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas in a friendly, welcoming environment.
Lanarkshire
 
Plymouth Swim
August 7
Lane swimming as well as for the less energetic.
Devon
 
Shaftesbury Lido
August 8
Heated 25m pool with life guards.
Dorset
 
The Chat
August 8
Online chat and banter about whatever you want.
Northern Ireland
 
Natram Walk
August 9
Join us for a 12 mile walk up Barley.
West Sussex
 
Aquasol Swim Bristol
August 9
Meet most Wednesdays at the Jubilee pool
Avon
 
GBSD Male Naturist Swim
August 10
Join us for this male only swim in Manchester.
Lancashire
 
Identity N@T
August 11 to 13
Everyone welcome to the Diversity & Inclusivity celebration @ Liverpool Sun & Air Society.
Merseyside
 
Great Missenden Walk
August 11
An 8 mile walk through the Misbourne Valley & parts of the Chiltern Hills.
Buckinghamshire
 
Shaftesbury Lido
August 11
Heated 25m pool with life guards.
Dorset
 
Club Naturel Swim
August 11
Fridays alternating between afternoons & evening swims.
Norfolk
 
Watford Swims
August 11
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'! 
Hertfordshire
 
Naked Pub Night
August 11
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
 
GBSD Kerensa Cottage
August 11
Bring lunch & water, not toilets, croquet & other games available.
Somerset
 
Open Weekend
August 12 & 13
Ribble Valley Club welcomes you to our open weekend; heated pool, sauna, hot tub etc. and evening activities in the club house. Bar open at 8pm.
Lancashire
 
Wigton Swim
August 12
A monthly swim at the Wigton Pool.
Cumbria
 
TROC Swim
August 12
Monthly swim with gym also available.
Tyne & Wear
 
GBSD Birmingham Swim
August 12
Spectrum swim meets most Saturdays at the Morris Centre
West Midlands
 
Peterborough Lido
August 12
FINAL swim this year in this 1930s Lido with 3 heated pools and café.
Cambridgeshire
 
Sinnington Walk
August 13
A 6.2 mile circular walk, undulating with some low to moderate hills.
North Yorkshire
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
August 13
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Scotney Castle Gardens
August 13
A visit to this National Trust property, non-naturist partners welcome.
Kent
 
Prested Hall Swim
August 13
Pool, sauna, steam room, garden area and licenced restaurant/Bistro.
Essex
 
Glasgow Swim
August 13
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas in a friendly, welcoming environment.
Lanarkshire
 
 
My thanks to David Smith for putting the list together... 
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash

This is Every Body

It's nearly time for our new festival - Every Body is an inspirational new project aimed at people who don’t feel they need to be a Naturist.
It's a fun-packed three-night festival and a celebration of all things Naked featuring live music, crazy activities, discussions and workshops, fitness and wellness plus, a big Naked trip out to the local waterpark!
 
It will take place in Dorset in a magical secluded woodland with lots of space, and places to party to enjoy a memorable clothes-free experience.
Find out more - over on the Every Body festival website

North West region - a GBSD quartet in the next week

We have four fantastic Great British Skinny Dip events in the coming week in the North West region - which will you go to?
The fantastic monthly Worsley Swim this coming Saturday 29th July at 4.30 pm. The Spectrum weekly Skinny Dip in Birmingham, Saturday 29th July at 6pm The Annual Great British Skinny Dip at the fabulous Marbury Lido (pictured( - Sunday 30th July at 7.15pm Shap Lido heated outdoor pool - Tuesday 1st August at 6pm For more details and tickets visit  North West News Online.

Announcing a new BN Members' Group Holiday!

Following a successful trip in the spring, we're delighted to announce a return to Magnolias Natura on the beautiful, sun-drenched island of Gran Canaria. 
This group holiday is exclusively for British Naturism members and will be hosted by BN members Roy and Jan. Group activities and gatherings will be arranged.
The holiday runs for 7 nights from 27 April - 4 May 2024, and, subject to availability, guests can book additional nights
Booking will open on Monday 31 July - but please feel free to register your interest now!
Please note that guests will arrange their own travel and other aspects of their trip.
Find out more on the BN events website

Events this weekend - and beyond!

We like to bring you news stories of forthcoming events - it spreads the word, encourages more people to book and shows just how vibrant the Naturist scene is in the UK. However - I'm happy to say - there are far too many to promote them all individually and so here is a complete list of all the events happening over just the next couple of weeks. Enjoy! And don't forget that we are always looking for reports on great gatherings for the magazine and elsewhere...
 
Hoo Cycle Ride
July 21
Join us for a leisurely naked bike ride in the North Kent marshes.
Kent
 
Naked Pub Night
July 21
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
 
Watford Swims
July 21
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'! 
Hertfordshire
 
Women Only Swim
July 21
The Six Hills Lake swim with free parking, changing facilities, toilets and a coffee shop.
Leicestershire
 
Swim Afternoon or Evening
July 21
Varied swim times organised by Club Naturel.
Norfolk
 
The Big Quiz
July 21
Online
Northern Ireland
 
Picnic on Swalecliffe Beach
July 21
For 2 young BN members to meet new people of similar age.
Kent
 
Run - Spikeball or Badminton
July 22
Join us at Tando for some exercise!
Tyne & Wear
 
Boys in the Buff
July 22
This is a clothing optional comedy spectacular for adults!
London
 
Chester Swim
July 22
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Nats, with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Wirral
 
Burrows Gardens
July 22
Join us for our second visit this year; tea, coffee and home baked cakes available.
Derbyshire
 
GBSD Birmingham Swim
July 22
Spectrum swim meets most Saturdays at the Morris Centre
West Midlands
 
North Marston Walk
July 22
A 7 mile walk, mainly flat with some low to moderate hills; stunning views from the top of Quainton Hill.
Buckinghamshire
 
GBSD Eastney
July 22
Check the website for exact meeting point
Hampshire
 
GBSD at Bramcote
July 22
Enjoy the pool and spa.
Nottinghamshire
 
GBSD Arundel Lido
July 22
More than just a swimming pool!
West Sussex
 
Ryedale Swim
July 23
Fortnightly swim
North Yorkshire
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
July 23
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Tewkesbury Swim
July 23
Severn Vale Swimming Club swims every second, fourth and fifth Sunday of each month
Gloucestershire
 
Naked Heart Walk
July 23
A 2 mile walk around the inside of the RSPB Nature Reserve in Rainham. Must Book.
Sold Out
 
GBSD & NHW
July 23
A joint fundraising event for BHF in beautiful Bishampton.
Worcestershire
 
Prested Hall Spa Swim
July 23
Held on the 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month, pool, sauna, steam room, garden area and licenced bistro.
Essex
 
Potteries Swim
July 23
Swim and relax in a pleasant, friendly environment, alternate Sundays.
Staffordshire
 
Scorborough Walk
July 23
Join this rescheduled 5.5 mile walk, completely flat, with stunning views.
Yorkshire
 
Swim Plymouth
July 24
Twice monthly swims, lane swimming and less energetic socialising, both in the pool and the pub afterwards.
Devon
 
Natram walk King’s Castle
July 25
Join us for a 12 mile stroll on the South Downs near Lewes.
East Sussex
 
The Chat
July 25
Online chat
Northern Ireland
 
Shaftsbury Lido Swim
July 25
This open air 25-yd heated swimming pool is a great place to swim.
Dorset
 
High Beeches Garden
July 26
With 27 acres of woodland, water gardens and a collection of rare and exotic plants.
West Sussex
 
Bristol Swim
July 26
Aquasol meet most Wednesdays at the Jubilee Swimming Pool in Bristol.
Avon
 
GBSD Male Naturist Swim
July 27
Join us for this male only swim in Manchester.
Lancashire
 
Naked Dining
July 28
Our latest naked dinner at the excellent So Bar in Ripon.
North Yorkshire
 
The Big Quiz
July 28
Online
Northern Ireland
 
Swim Afternoon or Evening
July 28
Varied swim times organised by Club Naturel.
Norfolk
 
Watford Swims
July 28
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'! 
Hertfordshire
 
Naked Pub Night
July 28
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
 
GBSD Clothing Optional
July 28
Swim and social at Six Hills, with outdoor seating, changing rooms, toilet and coffee shop.
Leicestershire
 
Boat Trip
July 29
Naked boat trip around the Farne Islands.
Northumberland
 
Worsley Swim
July 29
NW Naturists swim with optional massage, drinks and homemade cakes.
Greater Manchester
 
GBSD Birmingham Swim
July 29
Spectrum swim meets most Saturdays at the Morris Centre
West Midlands
 
GBSD Swim Letchworth
July 29
We are going back for another skinny dip in this excellent outdoor pool.
Hertfordshire
 
GBSD at Didcot Wave Pool
July 29
Indoor pool with wave machine.
Oxfordshire
 
Naturist Fishing
July 30
A Sunday of naturist fishing or relaxing around the beautiful privately owned Norton Fishing Lakes.
Suffolk
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
July 30
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Glasgow Swim
July 30
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas in a friendly, welcoming environment.
Lanarkshire
 
GBSD Marbury Lido
July 30
BN hosts this evening swim in aid of BHF.
Cheshire
 
LAMMAS Camping Festival
July 31 to August 5
A camping break of summer fun & escape including a beach day!
Flintshire
 
My thanks to David Smith for putting the list together... 
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash

Naked Heart Walks - this weekend

We're sending good wishes (and good wishes for good weather!) to the hosts and participants of this weekend's TWO Naked Heart Walks at WatersEdge, Bishampton and RSPB Rainham.
As with all Naked Heart Walks, bookings have been brisk and in fact Rainham is sold out.
Still time to book for WatersEdge though - with the added attraction of a skinny dip after the walk!
Find out more including links to the booking site 
 

A week with North Wales Naturist Society at Lammas Event Camp

2023 has been a remarkable year for North Wales Naturist Society (NWNS), who have established and run four events since April on the beautiful, natural woodland estate at Halkyn Castle Woods, Flintshire, North Wales.
Running from July 31st – August 5th Lammas Event Camp is open to everyone who is serious about Naturism. Guests have been visiting NWNS from not just north Wales, but all across the north west of the country, and as a result, a wonderful community has started to thrive, which is warm and welcoming to all.

The 47-acre site has a lot to offer Naturists, from beautiful woodland walks, a woodland fire circle, complete with open campfire in a seated covered area, a large camp ground with electric, and non-electric hook ups, toilet and shower block, and a quiet meadow to relax in. Whether you want to relax and find a peaceful place, or simply want to mingle with other Naturists, Halkyn Castle Woods is the perfect setting.

The camp will be six days of fun filled activities including walks, craft workshops, mindfulness and wellbeing sessions, archery, games and challenges, the building of a natural woodland sculpture and more.

There is plenty of evening entertainment and dancing as well as a trip off site to an ancient cemetery, dating back over 200 years, with a real pirate’s grave, and an end of event beach day.

For more information and booking visit the club website at www.nwns.fun
 
Image - Christine Robinson photography

The Forum Live - interviewing Nick Mayhew-Smith, BN Clubs Officer

Next Monday, 24 July, in the last Forum Live before the summer break, I'll have the pleasure of talking to Nick Mayhew-Smith, recently appointed as British Naturism's Clubs Officer.
Nick has a long history in Naturism and BN and, as the author of many books about Naturist places has been a guest on the Forum Live before. On Monday, we'll learn more about the role of Clubs Officer and what Nick hopes to achieve - and how. It can't be a one-man job and so we'll also find out how we all can help - and strengthen Naturism in the UK.
Join the session on the night over in the BN shop

News from the GBSD desk – and some non-BN naked swims!

It’s always great to hear about newly added Great British Skinny Dips. Not to mention about nudie swims that aren’t associated with BN but that also offer us Naturists the chance to strip off and enjoy some pool time and camaraderie.
First, the newly added event. Arundel Lido (pictured) has just scheduled a dip for this year – and it’s this Saturday, July 22! Make haste!
Dare to Bare at Arundel Lido, Arundel, West Sussex
Another upcoming GBSD to note also in an outdoor pool is the 29 July dip at Letchworth Pool:
Letchworth Pool, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fletchworth-pool-1893
And here’s something a bit different. Shaftesbury Lido in Dorset, which is run by the town council, is holding regular Naked Swimming sessions during the summer (ending September 3). Its website says:
“For those who may not have considered this type of swim before, there are many benefits to it. Not only can it help to improve self-esteem but it also gives you a sense of freedom, makes you feel closer to nature and allows your skin to breathe and get that all-important vitamin D.”
We could haven’t said that better ourselves!
The swims take place on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month from 7:30-8:30 pm. Head here https://www.shaftesbury-tc.gov.uk/services/lido/ for information and the timetable.
 

British Naturism Elections 2023

British Naturism is an organisation run by volunteers, supported by a small number of paid staff and consultants and each year members vote for those they wish to see take specific posts.
Voting for the 2023 election opened in June and members received information with their copy of BN236 magazine. For the first time in a long time, we have a contested election, reflecting the growing energy and enthusiasm within British Naturism.  This is also the first year that Regional Deputy Organisers are up for election, in addition to the Regional Organisers, following the adjustments to the Regional structures adopted at the AGM last year.  This means that members get a greater say on the running of British Naturism than ever before.  
If you haven't voted, please do so - voting closes on 31 July.
Once again, we are using online voting though if you prefer a paper form you may request one by sending a request to headoffice@bn.org.uk.
Members can access the list of candidates, read their election addresses and vote on this website at bn.org.uk/elections (log in required)
 
Photo by Parker Johnson on Unsplash

This bloomin' weather - Naked Heart Walk postponed

Organiser Keith send us this message. All those that have booked tickets have been informed.
The Naked Heart Walk at Fonthill Estate, due to take place tomorrow, is POSTPONED.
I am so sorry that it has been necessary to postpone this event as I, and I’m sure all of you as well, have been really looking forward to it but if you read on I will explain why we have made this disappointing decision.
I visited the venue this morning and noted the following factors:
The farm tracks leading from the main A303 road to the start point for the walk had many puddles which made the surface slippery. The site for the temporary car park was heavily overgrown and was becoming very soft.  Vehicles could easily become stuck with little chance of being pulled free very quickly. The rain was torrential making the ground even softer. The strong wind made the conditions quite chilly and I was fully dressed for wet weather. The forecast for tomorrow is for even stronger winds with the potential for damage to occur to the trees along the route creating a health and safety risk to participants. I hope you agree that we have little choice but to postpone the event, albeit for now at least, until a future date is arranged.  I will be in touch with the landowner, Lord Margadale, today to discuss the difficulties I have outlined and to discuss when an alternative date can be arranged.
I will be in touch with you all in the very near future.
With my renewed apologies,
Keith
 
Photo by reza shayestehpour on Unsplash

Events this weekend - and beyond

We like to bring you news stories of forthcoming events - it spreads the word, encourages more people to book and shows just how vibrant the Naturist scene is in the UK. However - I'm happy to say - there are far too many to promote them all individually and so here is a complete list of all the events happening over just the next couple of weeks. Enjoy! And don't forget that we are always looking for reports on great gatherings for the magazine and elsewhere...
 
Gangster Evening
July 15
Come along to our Gangster Evening, an evening of fun and games with a Gangster theme and fancy dress, with a 3-course meal for £15!
Merseyside
 
Badminton / Sport
July 15
Join us at Tando for badminton and stay for bingo with a difference!
Tyne & Wear
 
Boujie Bingo
July 15
Bingo with a difference at Tando!
Tyne & Wear
 
NHW Fonthill Estate
July 15
Clothes optional, Naked Heart Walk through amazing countryside but can be challenging with several hills to negotiate.
Wiltshire
 
Forth Boat Trip
July 15
Sail under the 3 iconic bridges spanning the River Forth.
Midlothian
 
Swim South Forest
July 15
Swim naturally in your local indoor complex with pool and flume, children’s pool, sauna, Jacuzzi
Nottinghamshire
 
Swim Bury St Edmunds
July 15
A regular swim plus sauna and steam room.
Suffolk
 
GBSD Birmingham Swim
July 15
Spectrum swims most Saturdays of the year.
West Midlands
 
Boules & Sport Weekend
July 15 & 16
Boules, water volleyball, Miniten, pickleball and swimming.
Buckinghamshire
 
GBSD  Kerensa Cottage
July 15
Swim, croquet and other games available, no toilets. Make a donation to BHF.
Somerset
 
Swim at Haddington
July 16
Join Forth Naturist’s swim featuring a 25m & children’s pool, sauna and steam room plus refreshments!
East Lothian
 
Nudie Dudie Swim
July 16
Swim at Llantwit Major Leisure Centre.
Vale of Glamorgan
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
July 16
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Meet & Greet
July 16
For a chat and a pint in South Wales.
Vale of Glamorgan
 
NW Bowls Event
July 16
Annual BN North West Bowls Competition
Cheshire
 
Rosslyn Glamping
July 16 to July 23
Clothing optional glamping / camping week.
Norfolk
 
Natram walk Egg & Denger
July 18
Join us for an 11 mile walk through ancient forests on the North Downs, with the chance for a skinny dip on the way back.
East Kent
 
Bristol Swim
July 19
Aquasol meet most Wednesdays at the Jubilee Swimming Pool in Bristol.
Avon
 
Natram Walk Kendyke
July 20
Join us for an 11 mile walk through Neolithic hill-forts, burial mounds and ancient trackways around the Vale of Pewsey.
Wiltshire
 
GBSD Male Naturist Swim
July 20
Join us for this male only swim in Manchester.
Lancashire
 
Hoo Cycle Ride
July 21
Join us for a leisurely naked bike ride in the North Kent marshes.
Kent
 
Naked Pub Night
July 21
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
 
Watford Swims
July 21
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'! 
Hertfordshire
 
Women Only Swim
July 21
A lake swim with free parking, changing facilities, toilets and a coffee shop.
Leicestershire
 
Swim Afternoon or Evening
July 21
Varied swim times organised by Club Naturel.
Norfolk
 
The Big Quiz
July 21
Online
Northern Ireland
 
Run - Spikeball or Badminton
July 22
Join us at Tando for some exercise!
Tyne & Wear
 
Boys in the Buff
July 22
This is a clothing optional comedy spectacular for adults!
London
 
Chester Swim
July 22
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Nats, with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Wirral
 
Burrows Gardens
July 22
Join us for our second visit this year; tea, coffee and home baked cakes available.
Derbyshire
 
Birmingham Swim
July 22
Spectrum swim meets most Saturdays at the Morris Centre
West Midlands
 
North Marston Walk
July 22
A 7 mile walk, mainly flat with some low to moderate hills; stunning views from the top of Quainton Hill.
Buckinghamshire
 
GBSD Eastney
July 22
Check the website for exact meeting point
Hampshire
 
GBSD at Bramcote
July 22
Enjoy the pool and spa.
Nottinghamshire
 
Ryedale Swim
July 23
Fortnightly swim
North Yorkshire
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
July 23
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Tewksbury Swim
July 23
Severn Vale Swimming Club swims every second, fourth and fifth Sunday of each month
Gloucestershire
 
Naked Heart Walk
July 23
A 2 mile walk around the inside of the RSPB Nature Reserve in Rainham. Must Book.
Essex
 
GBSD & NHW
July 23
A joint fundraising event for BHF in beautiful Bishampton.
Worcestershire
 
Prested Hall Spa Swim
July 23
Held on the 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month, pool, sauna, steam room, garden area and licenced bistro.
Essex
 
Potteries Swim
July 23
Swim and relax in a pleasant, friendly environment, alternate Sundays.
Staffordshire
 
Swim Plymouth
July 24
Twice monthly swims, lane swimming and less energetic socialising, both in the pool and the pub afterwards.
Devon
 
Natram walk King’s Castle
July 25
Join us for a 12 mile stroll on the South Downs near Lewes.
East Sussex
 
The Chat
July 25
Online chat
Northern Ireland
 
Shaftsbury Lido Swim
July 25
This open air 25-yd heated swimming pool is a great place to swim.
Dorset
 
High Beeches Garden
July 26
With 27 acres of woodland, water gardens and a collection of rare and exotic plants.
West Sussex
 
Bristol Swim
July 26
Aquasol meet most Wednesdays at the Jubilee Swimming Pool in Bristol.
Avon
 
Male Naturist Swim
July 26
Join us for this GBSD male only swim in Manchester.
Lancashire
 
Naked Dining
July 28
Our latest naked dinner at the excellent So Bar in Ripon.
North Yorkshire
 
The Big Quiz
July 28
Online
Northern Ireland
 
Swim Afternoon or Evening
July 28
Varied swim times organised by Club Naturel.
Norfolk
 
Watford Swims
July 28
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'! 
Hertfordshire
 
Naked Pub Night
July 28
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
 
GBSD Clothing Optional
July 28
Swim and social at Six Hills, with outdoor seating, changing rooms, toilet and coffee shop.
Leicestershire
 
Boat Trip
July 29
Naked boat trip around the Farne Islands.
Northumberland
 
Worsley Swim
July 29
NW Naturists swim with optional massage, drinks and homemade cakes.
Greater Manchester
 
Birmingham Swim
July 29
Spectrum swim meets most Saturdays at the Morris Centre
West Midlands
 
Swim Letchworth
July 29
We are going back for another skinny dip in this excellent outdoor pool.
Hertfordshire
 
GBSD at Didcot Wave Pool
July 29
Indoor pool with wave machine.
Oxfordshire
 
Naturist Fishing
July 30
A Sunday of naturist fishing or relaxing around the beautiful privately owned Norton Fishing Lakes.
Suffolk
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
July 30
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Glasgow Swim
July 30
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas in a friendly, welcoming environment.
Lanarkshire
 
Marbury Lido GBSD Event
July 30
BN hosts this evening GBSD in aid of BHF.
Cheshire
 

My thanks to David Smith for putting the list together... 
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash

World Naked Hiking Day - we celebrated!

‘World Naked Hiking Day takes place in the Northern Hemisphere on the Summer Solstice -  June 21st each year. It has grown in popularity over the years and is a great way to promote Naturism and Normalise Nudity,’ writes BN Sports Officer, Ian Munt

This year we wanted to put more effort into promoting the day and give as many people as possible an opportunity to walk in Naked in Nature.
There were six official walks - in Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Norfolk, Somerset and Yorkshire. Sarah White, BN’s Yorkshire and East Midland’s walks coordinator organised and led Yorkshire while Eastern region’s walks organiser Andrew Roch took care of the others.
The walks varied from six to nine miles with up to almost 30 walkers and the feedback was brilliant with everyone reporting on having a great time. We also welcomed quite a few newcomers to Naked Hiking,
Sarah said, “I am still buzzing. Everyone thanked me at the end for a walk so well organised, and a route with breath-taking views - many didn’t want to finish and get dressed. There were a couple who had never done a naked walk before and are now hooked. It makes all the hard work well worth it.”
In Buckinghamshire John White led a party of eleven including yours truly and we also had two newcomers who thoroughly enjoyed their day and will be going on more walks.
Meanwhile Andrew Roch led a party of seven through Thetford Forest. Allen posted on Twitter - Happy World Naked Hiking Day, had a lovely 12.5km walk today with several positive encounters with the public
Carol wrote, “We had a great walk. 29 of those in our group who were staying at Cambridge Outdoor Club were delighted to walk out and be able to strip just half mile from that lovely club. This included four who had never been on a naked walk, and two ladies who had never walked completely naked. We reduced the distance to five and a half miles to allow a longer picnic by the River Ouze where some of us swam!
Also, on the Day Naturist Ramblers held a Stark Trekkers walk on the South Downs in Hampshire, Brian from Midlands Naturist Ramblers  led a walk at Ticknall and Andy organised and led an unofficial walk at the Great Hill and Winter Hill Nr Bolton.
Some quotes from the participants
“We don’t want the walk to come to end because we have enjoyed it so much”
"This is just a short note to say a big  "thank you" for organising yesterday's Levisham walk, and to say how much Muffin and I enjoyed it. The organisation was first class, the route a pleasure to walk (despite the one steep-ish hill!) and the views spectacular! So thank you again for a delightful day."
"Just wanted to thank you for organising the walk, Susan and I really enjoyed it. When we get home, I'll look up the next ones and we may see you on another."
"Just wanted to say a big thanks for organising and leading the walk yesterday. Cracking route and a great day out."
“I had not realised just how liberating it can be to walk naked in nature. We will be doing this again both with BN and alone”
“Using World Naked Hiking Day to promote body positivity seems to have worked well. Everyone we met was really positive and two of them indicated that they might join us next year!”
In total, around 80 walkers were out in the countryside enjoying Nature and Normalising Nudity. There are so many benefits to Naturist walking for he mind body and soul, and attracts no cost! If you are inspired, there are lots of walks throughout the summer and autumn - check out the BN website calendar.

Great British Skinny Dips – July events beckon!

Quite often, when I mention my involvement in Naturism to non-nudies (and I do that every chance I get!), the response is, “Oh, I used to/still love to swim naked!” Many of these people, women especially, have fond memories of skinny-dipping as kids or on vacations. One friend recently lamented her failure to strip off for a sea swim while visiting a deserted beach in Scotland. Next time she’s there, she vowed, she won’t miss that chance again (Scottish weather permitting, of course!).
Of course, we all know how nice costume-free swimming is, and the Great British Skinny Dip calendar is chock-full of opportunities to do just that. Check out the new listings - Manchester Male Swims and a clothing-optional dip at Six Hills (pictured)!
Remember, these swims are more than just a chance to strip off and get in the water – as wonderful as that is! They’re a great way to introduce family, friends and colleagues to Naturism – and to raise much-needed funds for our charity partner the British Heart Foundation. Let’s get booking!
July 13
Manchester Male Swim, Greater Manchester
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fmanchester-male-swim-1858
July 15
Kerensa Cottage, Chiselborough Stoke-sub-Hamdon, Somerset
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fkerensa-cottage-2-1153
Spectrum Swim, Birmingham, West Midlands
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fspectrum-swim-921
July 20
Manchester Male Swim
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fmanchester-male-swim-1865
July 21
Swim Six Hills – Women Only, Six Hills, Leicestershire
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fsix-hills-women-only-swim-1827
July 22
Eastney Skinny Dip, Portsmouth Southsea, Hampshire
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Feastney-skinny-dip-1143
Spectrum Swim, Birmingham, West Midlands
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fspectrum-swim-922
Bramcote Leisure Centre, Bramcote, Nottinghamshire
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fbramcote-leisure-centre-1792
July 23
Waters Edge Bishampton, Pershore, Worcestershire
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fwaters-edge-bishampton-1106
July 27
Manchester Male Swim
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fmanchester-male-swim-1866
July 28
Six Hills clothing optional swim, Leicestershire
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fsix-hills-clothing-optional-swim-1862
July 29
Worsley Complex, Walkden, Greater Manchester
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fworsley-complex-gbsd-7-1129
Oxnat’s Dip at Didcot Wave Pool, Didcot, Oxfordshire
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Foxnats-dip-at-didcot-wave-pool-1763
Spectrum Swim
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fspectrum-swim-923
Letchworth Pool, Hertfordshire
https://great-british-skinny-dip.loxi.io/letchworth-pool-1893
July 30
Marbury Park Swimming Pool, Northwich, Cheshire
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar?loxi_pathname=%2Fmarbury-park-swimming-pool-1785 
 

Himalayan Garden Naked Heart Walk – a grand day out in Ripon!

My first reaction on reaching the parking area at the Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park near Ripon, Yorkshire, was, “I’m not taking my clothes off in THIS weather!” Despite it being July 1st, the wind was blowing, the sky was dark, and the idea of strolling around in the buff was unthinkable.  Many other participants had the same thought – and some kept some or all their clothes on for the entire walk. As I like to say when confronted with bad weather: We’re Naturists, not idiots!
That said, the 83 of us who showed up ended up having a splendid time.  The garden is in a little valley, sheltered from the cold wind, and by the time we got down there, the sun was shining. It warmed up enough that most of us finally managed to strip off…mostly.
Several things stuck me about the venue. First, the variety of plants, trees, shrubs, grasses and other greenery is astounding. Everywhere you look there’s something new and interesting growing. Where I grew up, in New York State, we had loads of dogwood trees. They may be common somewhere in the UK, but I didn’t remember seeing any until I passed one in the garden, in full bloom and looking gorgeous with its creamy-white and pink flowers.
There’s a good-sized lake along the walk, with a pagoda next to it that’s perfect for photo ops with ducks, tall water grasses, a huge floating magnolia sculpture and fellow nudies. And that leads to the second fabulous thing about the walk: There are sculptures of all sizes and styles sprinkled around the lawns and tucked away in the vegetation. There’s a mini-Stonehenge and a Norse hut. Artworks hang between trees, peep out from bushes, or rise up in the distance. Magic!
Two volunteers from British Heart Foundation came to support/work on the event and also walked the route with us. 
The event raised a hefty £1,420 for the British Heart Foundation, according to North West Regional Organiser Ron O’Hare.  Not only that, Ron says he heard “only positive comments” about the day – including from the venue, which enjoyed us so much they’ve welcomed us to return next year!
 
Image: Andrew Davies 

Reminder - Naked Heart Walk - Fonthill Estate

Here's a reminder that our next Naked Heart Walk in partnership with British Heart Foundation takes place this weekend!
The Naked Heart Walk programme this summer has been terrific - great locations, hundreds of people, plenty of newcomers - and lots of money raised for charity.
It's not too late to book for the walk on the Fonthill estate owned by Lord Margadale who said, 'The British Heart Foundation is a wonderful charity doing amazing things to help fund research into heart disease and we are proud to be hosting what promises to be a wonderful fundraising event in our beautiful countryside.’
Find out more details including how to book for this weekend's walk and other Naked Heart Walks

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