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News and articles about BN and the wonderful world of Naturism
the nest is a unique place for a forest retreat in a remote and secluded location. Here you can enjoy isolation, privacy and quietude whilst being surrounded by nature, sleep to the sound of waterfalls and a stream, and wake up to crickets and birds. During the warmer months it is great out under the sun or the soothing shadow of close to 70 species of trees. In the colder months you’ll enjoy being inside looking at the alluring landscape that keeps changing throughout the year (and even then there will be some hours of warm sunshine most of the days).
The accommodation area is around 1,722 square feet, while the whole property is around two acres. The villa features two bedrooms — one with a King-size bed and the other with a double bed — a bathroom with bathtub, a toilet, a cosy space for relaxing, dining and living room, and two balconies.
The house was built in 2002, and has two floors: the upper floor is entirely at the disposal of one single group of guests at a time, while the lower floor has been reserved for the hosts. All rooms have large windows or French windows facing outdoors, including kitchen and bathrooms. Outside you will find sun loungers, hammocks, chairs, stools, tables and sun umbrellas. The kitchen is fitted with all the necessary appliances.
The neighbouring zone is forest area with no houses around, typically very quiet. Around the property there are no shops or services, but at Sever do Vouga village (3 miles away) you will find all kinds of useful services, as well as a number of tourist attractions. The property is 50 miles (1 hour) by car away from Oporto’s airport.
The villa was designed and is owned by a Portuguese couple, and started welcoming guests on last May. The villa is run by Armando, on a pause from his activity as college professor. Armando has worked in England, is very fluent in English, is familiar to UK culture and loves welcoming fellow naturists.
Average ratings by guests are 5/5 on Airbnb, and 10/10 on Booking.com. the nest holds these distinctions from Booking.com: 4/5 property rating, 2/3 Travel Sustainable, and is also Proud Certified.
Discount for BN members!
British Naturism members benefit from prices around 15% cheaper through direct booking
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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...
 
EveryBody Festival
August 11 to August 14
A celebration of all things naked – live music, crazy activities, discussions, workshops, fitness & trip to waterpark!
Dorset
 
Identity N@T
August 11 to 13
Everyone welcome to the Diversity & Inclusivity celebration @ Liverpool Sun & Air Society.
Merseyside
 
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
 
GBSD 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
 
GBSD 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.
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
 
NW Region Zoom Meeting
August 15
Team NW are inviting you to a meeting
On line
 
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
 
GBSD Stay Wild & Swim Naked
August 18
A 10 minute walk through Marles Wood to the hidden swim spot on the River Ribble.
Lancashire
 
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
 
Boules & Sport Melee
August 19 & August 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.
Lanarkshire
 
Summer Camp
August 21 to August 26
NWNS invites you to a fun packed holiday overflowing with entertainment, games, activities & workshops.
Flintshire
 
Swim Plymouth
August 21
Lane swimming or just socialise with friends, plus the pub afterwards.
Devon
 
Stark Trekkers
August 22
Join us for a stroll around the Pevensey Levels.
East Sussex
 
Boys in the Buff
August 22
Clothing optional performance at the Edinburgh fringe.
Midlothian
 
The Chat
August 22
Online Team Talk, join us for an hour of chat and banter about whatever you want.
Northern Ireland
 
Shaftesbury Lido
August 22
Open air 25yard heated pool is a great place to swim.
Dorset
 
Barbara Hepworth Exhibition
August 23
Join us at the Towney Gallery to view this amazing exhibition.
East Sussex
 
High Beeches Garden
August 23
With 27 acres of woodland, water gardens and a collection of award winning plants.
West Sussex
 
Alnwick Garden
August 23
CANCELLED
 
Aquasol Swim Bristol
August 23
Meet most Wednesdays at the Jubilee pool
Avon
 
Natram walk Wepham Down
August 24
Join us for a 14 mile walk on the South Downs near Arundel.
West Sussex
 
GBSD Male Naturist Swim
August 24
Join us for this male only swim in Manchester.
Lancashire
 
Sunnybroom walking weekend
August 25 to August 28
SNC, near Aberdeen, invite you to a naked walking weekend of forest & hill tracks.
Aberdeenshire
 
Club Naturel Swim
August 25
Fridays alternating between afternoons & evening swims.
Norfolk
 
Watford Swims
August 25
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'! 
Hertfordshire
 
Naked Pub Night
August 25
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
 
Sport @ TANDO
August 26
Badminton, volleyball, run, petanque or spikeball then chill or sauna!
Tyne & Wear
 
Thetford Forest Walk
August 26
An 8 mile walk although short cuts available for a shorter walk.
Norfolk
 
NW Naturist Worsley Swim
August 26
GBSD in warm pools for swimming, sauna & steam rooms and a lounge for rest & refreshment.
Greater Manchester
 
GBSD Birmingham Swim
August 26
Spectrum swim meets most Saturdays at the Morris Centre
West Midlands
 
TANDO in Wonderland
August 26
Party in the woods.
Tyne & Wear
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
August 27
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Prested Hall Swim
August 27
Pool, sauna, steam room, garden area and licenced restaurant/Bistro.
Essex
Glasgow Swim
August 27
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas.
Lanarkshire
 
GBSD Petersfield Pool
August 27
Join us at this refurbished heated pool with café and a BBQ.
Hampshire
 
 
 
My thanks to David Smith for putting the list together... 
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash
This Halloween, don't be grim, reap the benefits of a naturist break at SANER's Halloween Gathering - BN members from all regions welcome.  Enjoy the devilishly good Naturist entertainment and events. Our final itinerary is yet to be finalised, however, what's for certain is that you'll be enjoying a monster mash-up of a Halloween disco.  At some point, maybe venture out (with clothes, sadly) to discover the local history of Stirling and its famous castle.
Since the event was launched in May, booking has been brisk and now all single rooms have now been taken, but we've set up a topic on the forum to help single people to connect and book twin rooms to share.

Please remember to ONLY book via the BN shop - the hotel is not taking bookings direct for this BN event.

Don't forget - as the hotel is next to the site of the Battle of Bannockburn, watch out for ghostly apparitions throughout your Halloween break at the Gathering!

Despite the unsettled forecast for our 3rd annual trip to Jupiter Artland on the outskirts of Edinburgh, last Saturday 36 of us spent a lovely two hours in the warm sun touring the gardens and the various sculptures and artworks. For most of us, it was our first time here, writes Billy Ritchie.
Jupiter Artland is set in the grounds of a private house and enjoys various permanent sculptures and numerous artworks that are commissioned by artists annually. Partly set in woodland it is complemented with large open areas sporting small green hills with paths that spiral up and down them nestled by water features. It is truly a hidden gem 
I think the comment we received from one of our first-time visitors sums it up: 'It was almost mystical walking about and stumbling upon random art works around each corner. Having never been before it did feel like a journey of discovery.'
Our picture shows some of the guests and the sculpture I Lay Here For You by Tracy Emin.
The future of British Naturism is dependent on members who are part of Young British Naturism today. That is my strongly held belief, and why I decided to stand as the YBN Lead. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Thomas McPolin for his hard work in shaping YBN over the last few years. As has already been expressed by the Executive Committee and fellow members in recent months, he
was instrumental in implementing changes, such as increasing the age group to 18-35, which have helped to ensure YBN has a stable future.
I have been a member of BN for the last four years, and during that time I have been active at events and, for the last year and a half, held other volunteer roles such as supporting events as an Official Photographer and First Aider. For the last year I have been working behind the scenes to help engage new YBN members, helping to demonstrate how to become involved, and trying to work towards breaking through those ‘first time’ nerves for our newer members. If you are a YBN member, and received a welcome message when joining – that was me!
I have been delighted to be given the opportunity to support YBN as the Lead, and to fill the place on the Executive Committee to advocate for younger members. I would like to express my gratitude to the EC for appointing me to this post.
I’m sure you’re wondering how YBN will evolve in the coming 12 months. Along with Jamie Mogford, newly appointed YBN Deputy Lead, I am placing a renewed emphasis on wider engagement with BN and in-person social activities. I am in the process of liaising with landed clubs across the country to start ‘YBN @...’ days, ensuring that members in all regions have the opportunity to meet with like-minded Naturists and are not limited by regional constraints. One of the concerns I have heard from members is that without the ability to have free access to transport, getting to the larger national events has been challenging. I am hoping that by using the large network of landed clubs across the country, we will be able to ensure that all members can be engaged with YBN and feel welcomed into our fantastic community. This also helps to introduce members to local clubs, a development which has been very much welcomed by the committee members I have spoken with so far. If you are part of a club, and would be interested in hosting YBN weekends, I would very much like to hear from you!
We are also in the process of developing a ‘winter plan’, which will ensure that new members joining in the quieter months are able to meet members of the YBN community and do not drift off into the Naturist wilderness. This is definitely an area which has needed a little work, and I am looking forward to ensuring this is developed further year on year.
Additionally, we are organising trips to enjoy the sights and scenes a little further away. Jamie has been hard at work planning a trip to Cologne in Germany for February 2024 to enjoy the Naturist-friendly spas a little further afield. We are hoping for trips like this to become an annual fixture on the YBN calendar. It has also been fantastic to see YBN members organising trips to Euronat in late 2024 – providing more opportunities for engagement than ever before!
Finally, I would like to invite anyone with ideas for how to develop the YBN offering to reach out to either myself or Jamie. We would love
to hear from you! Likewise, if you would like to volunteer to be part of the YBN Leadership
Team please let us know so we can discuss opportunities further.
Jon Ward
YBN Leader
jon.ward@bn.org.uk

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
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!
 
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
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
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
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.

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!
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).
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
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
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.
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
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
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 
 
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
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
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 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
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

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