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The Great British Skinny Dip - now's the time!

If there was ever a great time to plan/attend a Great British Skinny Dip, this is it. Some of you may have hesitated to jettison your clothes and leap into a pool, lido, a river, the sea or some other suitable, safe venue out of fear of developing goose bumps. Fear no longer! Enjoy the feel of cool water on your naked skin on a hot day. 
Looking for somewhere to dip? Why not try one of these?
21 July 
Race Hub, Leicestershire - their first event this year in June went so well they've added another!
July 23:
Oxnat, Didcot
Spectrum Swim, Birmingham
Peterborough Lido, Peterborough
July 30 
Mildenhall Naturist Swimming Club, Bury St Edmunds
July 31
Avonvale Sun Club, Ringwood
August 9
Beacon Tarn Naked Walk & Skinny Dip, Ulverston
Shap Lido, Penrith
August 13
Corton Beach Day, Lowestoft
Wigton, Wigton
Spectrum, Birmingham
 
You’ll find information on these and later swims here: https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar
 
If you’re still wondering why we keep going on about the Great British Skinny Dip, here are some further thoughts.
First— when it comes to skinny dips, attendance size doesn’t matter! The idea is to encourage people to enjoy – or experience for the first time – the pleasures of swimming costume-free. Events might attract loads of people or, as with the July 9 GBSD at Kerensa Cottage, Somerset, just a few. But those few had a great time on a lovely day and raised £70 for the British Heart Foundation, organiser Chris Howat reports. That’s what matters.
And that brings me to our second reason for the GBSD - raising funds for the BHF and using our closer relationship with the charity to inform the wider public about the health and well-being aspects of Naturism. 
Third, when you bring friends, family and colleagues to dips, you’re helping spread the word about the many benefits of Naturism and promote greater understanding of what social nudity is all about.
You’ll find everything you need on the dedicated GBSD website including social media tools, risk assessment forms for hosting swims and – importantly – a complete fundraising kit. And don’t forget to tell people to sign up for the GBSD newsletter (via the GBSD website footer) and follow us on social media.
 

Has there ever been a better time...?

'If only we had the weather!' they say. If only it wasn't always raining! If I lived in the South of France, or Spain, I'd probably give it a go.'
Now's your chance. Go 100% off Find out today or tomorrow what the fuss is all about and spend some time without your clothes. It's not shameful, ridiculous, eccentric, exhibitionist... in fact, it's fantastic You'll feel great.
And once you've discovered that for yourself check out the huge amount of stuff that's going on with British Naturism, the UK's biggest and most active Naturist community... goodtimes.bn.org.uk

Events this weekend - and beyond!

After months of planning and preparation our first Naked Heart Walk takes place next week - at the stunning Adlington Hall and Gardens in Cheshire. Tickets are still available - and the weather is looking good for a walk without hot sticky clothes in a country garden! Don’t forget the others in Essex and Kent
A chance for other walks next week include three Natram walks, in Kent and Sussex. The Eastern region will be walking in Buckinghamshire next Friday.
The heatwave makes skinny-dipping the obvious option! Check out all the details of dips coming up in the next few weeks.
World Naked Bike ride this weekend is from Colchester and Cardiff, with Clacton the following week! They are still underway all around the world - get on your bike!
There’s a return to both Burrow Gardens with BN’s Yorkshire and East Midland region, and the amazing Jupiter Artland in Scotland with its quirky artworks, woodland walks, fantastic earthwork mounts and meadow areas. You’ll also find a boat trip around the Farne Islands, Northumberland.
Our friends (BN members) at Rosslyn Glamping in Norfolk are welcoming Naturists back for the second of their clothing optional weeks this year. You can bring tents, caravans, motor homes or hire shepherd's huts. Sunnybroom club, near Aberdeen is hosting a three-night walking and camping break - and don’t forget that British Naturism: Sunfolk in Hertfordshire is open for the season (and open to all) with rates frozen at 2020 prices.
Amanda
x
 
Events
 
Camping
Clothing Optional Week at Rosslyn Glamping
Fri 15 Jul 2022, 12:00-Sun 24 Jul 2022, 10:30
Sunnybroom - walking and camping
Fri 29 Jul- Mon 01 Aug 2022
British Naturism: Sunfolk
All season
 
Walks
Natram walk Hoo Peninsula
Sat 16 Jul 2022, 11:30-18:30
Natram walk Wepham Down
Tue 19 Jul 2022, 11:15-19:00
Adlington Gardens Naked Heart Walk
Wed 20 Jul 2022, 15:00-20:00
Stark Trekkers walk South Downs near Wilmington
Fri 22 Jul 2022, 11:30-16:00
North Marston Naturist Walk
Fri 22 Jul 2022, 12:30
 
The Great British Skinny Dip
Various events
 
WNBR
WNBR Colchester | 16 July 2022
Sat 16 Jul 2022, 13:00
WNBR Cardiff | 16 July 2022
Sat 16 Jul 2022, 12:30
WNBR Clacton | 23 July 2022
Sat 23 Jul 2022, 13:00
 
 
Events
Burrows Gardens Visit
Sat 23 Jul 2022, 12:00-16:30
Jupiter Artland
Sun 24 Jul 2022, 17:30-19:30
Farne Boat Trip
Sat 30 Jul 2022, 15:00
 
 
Swims - plenty to consider, see bn.org.uk/calendar
 
 
And keep an eye on all the other gatherings…
Events run by British Naturism - events.bn.org.uk
All other events (you can add your own!) - bn.org.uk/calendar
Online events - shop.bn.org.uk/pages/online-home
The Great British Skinny Dip - greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk

The Forum Live debate - What makes a successful Naturist Club?

Every club wishes to be successful and deliver a great experience for all visitors.  A challenge that many face is in working out what to prioritise and how to deliver it on limited resources.  We will use this session to cover two aspects of running a successful Naturist club.  
First, we will gather ideas of what people look for in a club, essentially a members’ wish list.  Secondly, we will devise a strategy that would allow a club to deliver the major features at a practical level.  Hopefully, this session will create a template that interested clubs might use to guide their planning of the year ahead.
The online session will take place at 19:30 next Monday 18th July. Join in via the BN shop

It’s scorchio! Perfect weather for the Great British Skinny Dip!

If there was ever a great time to plan/attend a Great British Skinny Dip, this is it. Some of you may have hesitated to jettison your clothes and leap into a pool, lido, a river, the sea or some other suitable, safe venue out of fear of developing goose bumps. Fear no longer! Enjoy the feel of cool water on your naked skin on a hot day. 
Looking for somewhere to dip? Why not try one of these?
July 16 
Spectrum Swim, Birmingham
St Anne’s Beach, Lytham Saint Anne's
Beacon Tarn, Ulverston
Mildenhall Swim, Newmarket
Letchworth Outdoor Pool, Letchworth Garden City
21 July 
Race Hub, Leicestershire - their first event this year in June went so well they've added another!
July 23:
Oxnat, Didcot
Spectrum Swim, Birmingham
Peterborough Lido, Peterborough

You’ll find information on these and later swims here at greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar
 
If you’re still wondering why we keep going on about the Great British Skinny Dip, here are a few thoughts.
First—it’s summer! Yes, of course it’s possible to swim costume-free all year round indoors, but why not take advantage of the sunshine and heat to dip your toes into an outdoor venue?
Second, we are still all about raising funds for the British Heart Foundation – and about using our closer relationship with BHF to inform the wider public about the health and well-being aspects of Naturism.
Third, when you bring friends, family and colleagues to dips, you’re helping spread the word about the many benefits of Naturism and promote greater understanding of what social nudity is all about. And we know they will have great fun!
Speaking of spreading the word: BN’s recent Great British Skinny Dip press release sparked loads of media interest! Among the print outlets, there were pieces in North Wales Live, The Scotsman, The Daily Star, The Guardian, The Scottish Daily Record, Cotswold Life magazine, The Daily Mail and the Nottingham Post. There have also been some smashing radio interviews – BBC Radio Kent, Cornwall, Essex, Nottingham, Leicester…the list goes on. If you are a member of British Naturism you can find links to many of them on the members forum. If you are not, it's easy to join online.
This clear interest from the British press and public in Naturism should inspire us all to take part in the swims, organise them or find suitable venues willing to host them! 
You’ll find everything you need on the dedicated GBSD website including social media tools, risk assessment forms for hosting swims and – importantly – a complete fundraising kit. And don’t forget to tell people to sign up for the GBSD newsletter, and follow us on social media.

Naked Heart Walks - one next week! - have you booked your place?

In the summer of 2021 we had a brilliant evening out in the sunshine at Painshill Park in Surrey (pictured) on the inaugural Naked Heart Walk, raising oodles of money for British Heart Foundation.
Such was the success that there are THREE Naked Heart Walks this year giving you an opportunity to enjoy a clothes-free day out in a lovely location - with a little bit of exercise. If you can also be sponsored or make a donation then that's even better.
Perhaps you will also get round to asking that friend/neighbour/colleague that you've been wanting to take along to a Naturist event - it's a charity event, how could they refuse?
The Naked Heart Walks 
20th July (next Wednesday!) - Adlington Hall, Cheshire - two walks, 3pm and 6pm - click here for tickets
Thursday 18th August - Secret Nuclear Bunker - evening meal available - click here for tickets
Saturday 27th August - Hole Park, Kent - includes afternoon tea - click here for tickets 

Valley Club Weathers the Winter Storms

Steve Knight writes...
Valley Sun Club is a small but friendly Naturist club and campsite located on the edge of Harrogate, North Yorkshire. Surrounded by woodland and open to both visitors and members, Valley is perfectly located for walks along the adjacent Nidd Gorge, with walking and cycling routes nearby allowing easy access to the quaint village of Ripley and the ancient market town of Knaresborough with its weekly market and quirky annual bed race. Harrogate's varied tourist attractions - including Betty's Tea Rooms, the Great Yorkshire Show and the Harrogate Turkish Baths (with its clothing-optional sessions) are only 15 minutes drive away and the beautiful Yorkshire Dales are within easy reach also.
Unfortunately, the club’s rural location left it at the mercy of the terrible storms during the 2021-2022 winter. Several large trees fell, one toilet block lost part of its roof and in the region of 40 fence panels had to be repaired or replaced. As usual, club members rallied around - often in atrocious weather – to prepare the site for its Spring reopening.
So what is it that draws people to Valley? Many visitors comment on the friendly welcome that they receive, whilst members reflect on the friendships that have developed over the years. For others, Valley is a place in which to escape from the world of work, to be close to the sound of birdsong from the adjacent woodland and to simply take time out from the real world. The club has seen many changes over the years and yet it remains a haven of tranquillity. Nowadays, members and visitors to family-friendly Valley can enjoy expansive sunbathing areas, a clubhouse with licensed bar open at weekends and various leisure activities including boules court, 9-hole mini golf, miniten, children's play area, pool table and darts. Aware of our responsibility to the environment, some of our grassed areas have been allowed to revert to a more natural state, with a range of wildflowers now improving the habitat for a variety of insect wildlife and bees - as well as creating a different vista for us humans!
Visitor’s caravans, motorhomes and tents are welcome, as are well-behaved dogs. Two utility blocks offer plentiful hot water, free showers and washing-up facilities. A two-berth caravan is available for hire too.
Regular Saturday evening pub quizzes, bingo and table games take place, and karaoke offers members and visitors alike an opportunity to showcase their vocal skills.  The recent Jubilee bank holiday weekend saw members enjoying a traditional afternoon tea and plans are afoot for a variety of other meals, including tapas, Greek cuisine and a summer BBQ to be served through the rest of the season, which runs from March through to the end of October. Daytime sees regular sporting competitions - open to all abilities - with a boules tournament taking place on Saturday afternoons and golf on a Sunday. Of course, Valley is also a place of tranquillity and there is never any pressure for anyone to take part or to put in an elite performance. Visitors are always welcome to join in.
The story of Valley began in 1937 when a group who used to sunbathe near Holmfirth found a beautiful secluded site near Harrogate and formed the Yorkshire Sun and Health Association. Those early pioneers clearly chose a great location and created foundations strong enough to ensure Valley's survival into the 21st Century.
If you're looking for rest, relaxation and a warm Yorkshire greeting then Valley Sun Club might well be the place that you're looking for - we welcome enquiries from visitors and prospective members alike.
valley-sun-club.co.uk
Membership enquiries: Richard - 07340 177142 - richardatvalley@gmail.com
Day Visit/Camping enquiries: Paul - 07432 577847 - paulvalleycampsite@gmail.com

How are you coping with the heatwave?

You know that temperatures are soaring over Britain when at least one national newspaper prints a picture of a young woman sunbathing in her bra and pants during her lunch hour, taking advantage of the weather and adapting to her circumstances.
Or perhaps she's using a modicum of common sense? When it's cold, it's intuitive - and socially acceptable - to keep putting on layers until you are warm enough. So, on days like today when it's sweltering and we are sweating in our clothes, feeling mighty uncomfortable, irritable and unable to concentrate, it should be equally acceptable to do the opposite; remove layers until you feel cool again. That probably means all layers, until all that protects you is your own skin. Surely it's not just Naturists that see the sense in that? 
Sadly, decades of social conditioning about what's 'right' or is 'appropriate behaviour' (and what's not) in our society possibly mean that the woman in that picture consciously kept her underwear on when it would have been more sensible to take it off too. We're all (broadly) the same underneath and yet we cling to small strips of fabric even when we don't need to for the sake of 'modesty'. The purpose of clothes is to keep us warm and dry, and you don't need either aspect during a heatwave. You may be reading this and thinking of the social status conferred by what we wear, but do you really need that artificial boost to the ego when you are relaxing in the sun? 
Naturism is also perfectly legal. Sunbathing naked in your garden is an easy way to start - and so what if the neighbours can see? How can anyone argue with your desire to cool off in the most sensible way?
There's plenty going on in Naturism in the UK and there's a lot more activity than just sunbathing. Millions of people around the world have discovered the wonderful feeling that comes from spending time without clothes, come and join them. Nothing's better!

Nudefest - Day 7

All good things come to an end, even great, spectacular things like British Naturism's Nudefest.
Amongst all the other wonder yesterday - fitness, sports, workshops and talks, the magic teapot (pictured), and three live music acts, we hosted possibly the largest naked picnic ever staged with loads of red, white and blue and a visit from ER II. If that wasn't enough, a helicopter and four parachutists landed in the field. 
Today gives guests a chance to draw breath, with fewer activities. The bar's still open though and there are hundreds of happy, friendly, naked people to share time with.

Nudefest - Day 6

Time flies when you're having fun, which means that I shouldn't be surprised it's Saturday already! 
It was a seriously hot and sunny day yesterday and we made the most of it right into the evening when we danced the night away. As you will see from the image, some of our guests even dressed in homage to their heroes, Piano Jam. 
The sun's already high in the sky today. There's the usual programme of fitness, meditation and sports, workshops and talks, a hands-on reptile experience, slip 'n' slide and a Jubilee picnic with a parachute display team landing at Nudefest! A Bee Gees tribute and silent disco will end a fabulous week.
Has it been fabulous? Is Naturism one of the best ever things? Writer Antonia Hoyle certainly thinks so
 

Nudefest - Day 5

People are moaning here. 'There's so much to do, I can't fit it all in!' they say. A nice problem to have, I say.
Yesterday's off-site walk attracted over 100 people who eventually were able to strip off when the sun finally obliged. Word of the day towards the end of the afternoon, however, was 'sunburn'. Boy, was it hot. It might have been the prompt, who knows, but circus performers and bar staff were inspired to adopt our dress code.
Over the last two days I have welcomed two writers from national newspapers, both of whom reported a great experience - let's hope the features they write are just as positive. Thanks to all the Nudefesters who spoke to them.
Is it Friday already? Today, there are seven fitness classes, five sport sessions and a fishing competition, more talks and workshops,  board games and a Holi paint fight, before another evening of fantastic live music.
 

Naked Heart Walk at Adlington Hall - a press release from British Heart Foundation

Here's a press release just issued by our friends in the North West region of British Heart Foundation
Naked walk in grounds of Cheshire country house to raise vital funds for heart research
Locals in Cheshire are being urged to bare it all for a naked walk to help raise money for the British Heart Foundation’s (BHF) life saving research.
Fundraisers can leave their clothes behind and take part in the BHF Naked Heart Walk, held in the stunning gardens of Adlington Hall, a country home in the heart of Cheshire countryside near Macclesfield.
The event has been organised by British Naturism as part of their charity partnership with the BHF. 
It will take place on Wednesday 20th July and participants can sign up to one of two walks at the venue – one starting at 3pm and another starting at 6pm.  
Walkers will be able to feel the breeze on their skin as they walk along a circular path up through the extensive grounds and onto the lawn by the hall. There will also be a maze to explore.
Each participant is being asked to aim to raise £100 through sponsorship, which will help fund the BHF’s research to save and improve the lives of people living with heart and circulatory diseases. In Cheshire alone, around 140,000 people are living with these conditions.
Walkers will receive a fundraising pack and full support from the BHF to help them reach their sponsorship target. A BHF medal will also be handed out at the end of the walk, with snacks and water provided to all participants.
The event is ticket only and anyone taking part must be aged over 18. The grounds of Adlington Hall will be closed to the general public during both walks, and there will also be a gazebo on site where participants can disrobe.
Ron O’Hare, North West Coordinator for British Naturism, said: “Naturism is great for your body confidence, self-esteem and physical and mental health. Our Naked Heart Walk provides a brief escapism from covering up and will be an exhilarating experience for all who take part. Stripping off will be for a good cause, too, as the money raised through sponsorship will help fund the BHF’s vital research.
We can’t wait to hold our event at Adlington Hall soon and would urge anyone who wants to join us to purchase tickets now.”
Emily Lyle, Fundraising Manager at the British Heart Foundation (BHF), said: “By daring to bare for the BHF, you will be able to get moving and meet other fellow nude walkers, all whilst exploring the fascinating grounds of Adlington Hall. Your fearlessness will pay off, as any money raised will help the BHF continue to fund its groundbreaking science to find the cures and treatments of the future.”
The event is limited to 100 participants. Tickets cost £15 and can be purchased by clicking here.
Ends
For more information, please contact Lee Kettle from the BHF’s Media Team on 07741 908365 or kettlel@bhf.org.uk 
Notes to Editors
About the British Heart Foundation 
It is only with donations from the public that the BHF can keep its life saving research going. Help us turn science fiction into reality. With donations from the public, the BHF funds ground-breaking research that will get us closer than ever to a world free from the fear of heart and circulatory diseases. A world where broken hearts are mended, where millions more people survive a heart attack, where the number of people dying from or disabled by a stroke is slashed in half. A world where people affected by heart and circulatory diseases get the support they need. And a world of cures and treatments we can’t even imagine today. Find out more at bhf.org.uk 
 

Nudefest - Day 4

You can be forgiven if you think that the only thing going on in Naturism in the UK right now is Nudefest. Of course, it's not, but when 500+ Naturists take over a campsite, watch the European mountain bike champion, meet a features writer from a national newspaper, enjoy a presentation and reading from an up-and-coming author and dance into the night to one of the bet 60s bands - it's worth talking about!
So what can we expect today? Another full programme of fitness classes and sports, a naked walk in the local countryside, jewellery and bubble workshops, wine tasting, life drawing and horse and cart rides. The circus comes to Nudetown and we anticipate the return of the Old Time Sailors and their energetic shanties. There will be more music later from DJ MaxGalactic and Rum & Reggae. If interactive, acoustic music is more your thing, head to the Magic Teapot where the hosts are delighted to be back at Nudefest where they can once again do their stuff, in the buff!

Nudefest - Day 3

Nudefest kicked up a gear yesterday with the start of the fitness classes. As you can see, the weather played along and yoga and GroovX took place in the sunshine. The event field was full of pétanquers (is that a word?), volleyballers and happy people lazing around in the sun. The bar did a roaring trade (when does it not?). We also watched the Magic Teapot being erected - can't wait to get in there today.
Rebecca and Will from British Heart Foundation had a stunning day, meeting many people with heart-related stories and showed us how to perform CPR. We danced to the Wassail Blues Band and joined the silent disco train. 
Even more activity and entertainment awaits the hundreds of guests today, from workshops in willow weaving and jewellery, to a visit to the Cider Brandy Farm and a mountain bike demonstration (by the European champion) and I'll be chatting to author Sophie Pavelle about her new book.
Then it's music all the way - with a pop quiz, karaoke, and two acts paying tribute to the 1960s.
Enjoy!

Nudefest - Day 2

Build it and they will come - and come they did! The place is buzzing now with hundreds of guests arriving from all points of the compass. The sun was held up by slow-moving clouds in the M-sky, but appeared eventually, coinciding with the opening of the bar. Neat. Business was brisk, as nude holidaymakers chilled before dancing to The Craving's guitar-based pop and rock classics.
Looks like a sunny day today, too. We're looking forward to welcoming our partners from British Heart Foundation who'll be manning an information stall, demonstrating CPR and then sitting down for a chat with me about their work and the events we are collaborating on. There's yoga, meditation, GroovX, pétanque, volleyball, Molky and Kubb. Tonight we'll be enjoying a blues band and the Silent Disco train. Intriguing.

...and so it begins, it's Nudefest!

Today marks the start of Nudefest, our big summer week-long event which is as usual packed with masses of activities and entertainment. A few people are already on site, here in Somerset, and we expect hundreds to arrive later today. The team is ready to get them to their pitches so that everyone can get on with the serious business of enjoying themselves!
It's particularly great for me on a personal level to see how this festival that I was at the helm of when it began in 2007, grow to such a size and quality. Nudefest began when I was contacted by gift experience company Red Letter Days who had an idea to branch out into the wellness market and launched it via a nude night at Cornwall's Eden Project. We made an arrangement with a local caravan park to allow our people to make a weekend of it, added a late night disco and Nudefest was born. 
Tonight's Forum Live comes, er, live, from here and then we will all kick off our shoes (If we've put them on in the first place) and dance to The Craving. 
 
Image: Nudefest - almost set up... Mark Bass

Events this weekend - and beyond!

Hey everyone - this update includes events from today until Sunday 10th July, but don’t forget to keep an eye on all other events coming up soon:
Events run by British Naturism - events.bn.org.uk
All other events (you can add your own!) - bn.org.uk/calendar
Online events - shop.bn.org.uk/pages/online-home
The Great British Skinny Dip - greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk
 
Find links to all the events mentioned, below.
 
BN’s big summer event starts this weekend - Nudefest is also the UK’s biggest Naturist festival. We published the activity programme this week - it’s packed! I must mention Naked Yoga with Georgia, Group Fitness with Roy, Groovx fitness with Jooles, Fitsteps with Caroline, Meditation with Tor, as my favourites (and as those people are my friends!) Other personal highlights include Jewellery workshops, The Extreme Mountain Bike & BMX Show, World champion Danny’s stunt show! Drink & be merry with our band of 16 sailors and shanties galore, Rum & Reggae, Bud, The Silent Disco Train! our horse & cart ride. Duelling Pianos, Piano Jam are back! As are Rang-A-Tang. And who does not love the Magic Teapot??
There’s another camping opportunity, at a new venue; a relaxing back to basics weekend at Rushey Hill in Northern Ireland, with hopefully, weather permitting trip to the local beaches.
This week’s walks include a 7-mile walk by the Eastern region to Nettlebed in Oxfordshire, and a  Natram 11 mile hike around Box Hill near Dorking in Surrey. Please be advised this walk does include some strenuous climbs!
This week’s skinny dip opportunities include an informal beach day at Studland, an evening with Gary and Noreen and the Northern Ireland region in Magherafelt, for their first skinny dip in a man-made lake, which was over 50 years ago a basalt quarry! Wholly Healthy Open Water Club in Nottingham welcomes us to their first Skinny Dip in Colwick Park. Andy and the South West team will be in Ringstead Bay in Dorset.
Our first garden visit of July is to the National Trust’s Scotney Castle, a picturesque 14th Century castle surrounded by a moat, walled gardens. Picnic hampers are available as are ice cream, soft drinks and coffee/tea will be available to purchase in the garden also. In the South West, another new venue is Birchtree Well in Monmouthshire, situated in the heart of the Lower Wye Valley. We can walk amongst the ancient habitat of woodland, rocks, streams, lookout towers and butterfly gardens.
World Naked Bike ride this week from Portsmouth and Ipswich the following week! They are still underway all around the world.
 
Amanda
x
 
Events
 
Camping
Nudefest 2022
Mon 04 Jul 2022 - Mon 11 Jul 2022
Rusheyhill Camping
Sat 09 Jul 2022, 10:00 -Wed 13 Jul 2022, 12:00
 
Walks
Nettlebed Naturist Walk – 1st July 2022
Fri 01 Jul 2022, 12:30
Natram walk Box Hill
Thu 07 Jul 2022, 11:30-18:30
 
 
WNBR
WNBR Portsmouth 2 July 2022
Sat 02 Jul 2022, 11:00
WNBR Ipswich | 9 July 2022
Sat 09 Jul 2022, 13:00
 
Great British Skinny Dips
Skinny Dip Aberdeen
Sat 02 Jul 2022
Spectrum swim
Sat 2 Jul and Sat 9 Jul 2022, 18:00 - 21:00
Studland Beach Day
Sun 03 Jul 2022
Splash Northern Ireland | Mon 4 Jul 2022 | Magherafelt, Northern Ireland
Mon 04 Jul 2022, 20:00-22:00
Wholly Healthy Open Water | Sat 9 Jul 2022 | Nottingham
Sat 09 Jul 2022, 06:30-11:59
Kerensa Cottage Independent Skinny Dip
Sat 09 Jul 2022, 11:00-16:30
Ringstead in Bay Dorset on Saturday 9th July 2022
Sat 09 Jul 2022, 11:00
Wigton
Sat 09 Jul 2022, 13:00 - 15:00
Newcastle
Sat 09 Jul 2022, 18:00 - 19:00
 
Other events including garden days
Haslemere Open Day
Sat 02 Jul 2022-Sun 03 Jul 2022
Naturist Yoga Class | Consett | Saturday 10:00-13:00
Sat 02 Jul 2022, 10:00-13:00
Visit to NT Scotney Castle
Sun 03 Jul 2022, 17:30-21:30
Birchtree Well
Sun 03 Jul 2022, 14:00-17:30
Naked Yoga in Bristol
Tue 05 Jul 2022, 20:00-21:00

BN - broadcasting to the nation

We're fortunate to receive many approaches from the media - print, radio, TV and online - for news items, features, first-person stories and comment on Naturism and Naturist-related topics.
It's mostly because our subject matter is perennially fascinating, but we've also become adept at handling them professionally, and are well-known for being approachable and quick to respond.
Best of all is the increase in members willing to participate (thank you all!) - to be interviewed, filmed or photographed, share their views, and educate (inspire?) the audience, changing their views on social nudity (and those mad people that do it) and/or encouraging them to give it a try. Golly - they might even join BN!
It's been busy (again) lately as the opportunities to spread the word have increased. That's partly because we issued two press releases last week about the Great British Skinny Dip and Nudefest, both of which led to good coverage in print and on radio. BBC Radio Leicester sent a reporter to a skinny dip, and we were even asked by The Scotsman newspaper to write an article for them!
If you'd like to catch up with it all, read the articles and listen to the radio interviews, then check out this topic on the BN members' forum (log in required - don't have one? Come and join us here). There is also a topic dedicated to requests we and others have received for people and places for Naturist-related media work.
...and keep checking back, because, believe me, there is more to come...
 
Photo by Fringer Cat on Unsplash

From the Boardroom - a round up of activity by BN's Management Team

Arrivals and departures 
Unfortunately, for personal reasons, Sally Whitney decided to stand down as Clubs Officer and the position now stands vacant. We thank Sally for her contribution during her short time in post. This is a role created following the consultation carried out in 2020 concerning the relationship between BN and its member clubs, and one of its principal functions is to facilitate better communication. We very much hope somebody will come forward to take on this role soon. 
On the credit side, we were pleased to welcome Robin Dearle to the team. Robin will be assisting with financial matters and although he will not formally adopt the title of financial director, he will occupy a very important position. 
We were pleased to see that all the roles that fall due for election this year have attracted nominations. 
British Naturism: Sunfolk 
As the Sunfolk site readied itself to mark its 90th year as a Naturist venue, early in the new year we received the good news that planning permission for our proposed developments was granted. This means that we now need to move ahead with the practicalities, including the funding of this project. Developing this plan has been an important topic for the management team, over the last few months.
Meanwhile, the British Naturism: Sunfolk website has been re-launched – if you haven’t visited it recently it will be well worth a look.
British Heart Foundation 
We were extremely pleased to be able to sign a new agreement with this major national UK charity, building on the partnership of the last two years. They are extremely keen to be working with us.  We are now listed on the BHF’s website as a corporate partner.
Opinion polls 
The EC has decided to commission a well-known polling organisation to ask some questions about Naturism. The last such polls took place in 2001 and 2011, but with Covid still a major obstacle to normal life in 2021 it did not seem prudent to launch such a poll that year. This year, with things gradually getting back to normal, seems to be a more suitable time. We hope that such a poll will enable us to understand trends in relation to the practice of Naturism and public attitudes towards it.
Regional structures reform 
The working group dealing with regional structures made recommendations which have now been adopted by the EC and which will be discussed at the AGM 
in October. We hope these will strengthen regions overall by freeing them of unnecessary bureaucracy and encouraging more volunteers to come forward at regional and local level. 

Edwin Kilby 
 

The Forum Live - Live from Nudefest

Next Monday (4th July) the Forum Live will actually be live as I'll be 'broadcasting' direct from BN's flagship summer event—and the biggest Naturist festival in the UK—Nudefest, at Thorney Lakes in Somerset.
I'll tour the site, showing you the various areas and chat to various people including the organisers, activity/workshop/fitness class hosts and guests to give you an overview of the event and what to expect.
There is plenty going on - here's the activity-packed programme
Join the Forum Live session on Monday session via the BN shop

Does Naturism help your mental health? Part Four

Here’s the fourth part of our article by BN member Sheila Maycock on Naturism and Mental Health.
Read the previous articles on this website - Part One, Part Two and Part Three
As a newish Naturist I have been thinking about how and when I share my new found philosophy and lifestyle with non-Naturists and one of the main fears is ‘What will people think of me?’.  When I have told trusted family and friends, the response has been overwhelmingly positive, but with others might it be embarrassing or even shameful? 
Shame is a powerful emotion. It can cause us to sever relationships, sink into depression, fuel addictions, and even lead to suicide. Guilt is about doing something bad, shame is a deep seated feeling of being bad. It’s a feeling of unworthiness, believing you are an inadequate or unworthy person; the underlying impression that you’ve done something wrong, don’t know enough, feel uncomfortable in a social situation, or how you look, what you say or do, or a heightened awareness of your own perceived flaws or insecurities. 
Many experiences can lead to shame being a ‘default setting’: early rejection or lack
of emotional availability from caregivers; being judged or criticised; childhood trauma (ACEs) or abuse; the ‘toxic trio’ of domestic abuse, mental ill health and substance misuse. Social media is rife with sexting and ‘slut-shaming’ which impacts significantly on children and young people’s body image and mental wellbeing. Media in general has an idealised image to project, which few of us realistically achieve. 
Shame can make asking for help excruciating. Shame makes forging romantic relationships agonising and self-acceptance impossible. Shame makes us want to disappear, which can often lead to eating disorders or other self-harming behaviours. Shame says “don’t be noticed” and “don’t make a fuss” whilst we all have an innate need to be seen, heard, noticed, attended to and connected with. 
But the conundrum of shame is that, as blameless victims – often as mere children – we feel so much shame for things forced unwillingly upon us. The blame for adverse experiences, trauma and abuse lies only and always with the perpetrator. Most of us manage to keep up a brave face for the outside world, learning to act ‘as if ’ we are doing ok, whilst silently struggling on inside. Finding a safe place to share some of those deepest fears, which may even be hidden from oneself, can help deal with the triggers that send us scurrying back to hide. Other strategies include learning to notice and observe those feelings, rather than act on them and altering your Self Talk - that inner, often critical, voice - to a more constructive and encouraging tone, speaking to yourself as you would speak to your best friend; kindly and honestly but most importantly with love. 
Nudity literally bares all physically but also invites emotional and psychological openness. Baring all can be a major trigger for shame, as our culture uses shame to ensure compliance with the clothed norm. But once the learned norm of clothing is unlearned, usually through the supportive encouragement of other Naturists offering a kind and sympathetic welcome to newcomers, for many people Naturism is a revelation of freedom. In a Naturist environment no-one is judging, no-one is hiding behind clothing. Acceptance and respect are the norm. There is no longer a need to be ashamed and embarrassed about your body, in all its glorious reality. The social taboos linking nakedness and sex are eradicated, eliminating shame or worry about standing out or making yourself vulnerable. As a woman, even among the principally male Naturist community, I have found the non-sexual nude environment refreshingly non-threatening. 
Becoming a Naturist is an emotional ‘balancing act’, a product of developing an enhanced ability to reject and refute shame, expanding self-awareness and confidence, whilst
meeting a whole bunch of genuinely lovely people. 
 
Sheila Maycock 
MBACP (Accred) Family Therapist 

Events this weekend - and beyond!

This year has just flown for me! We’ve just passed the Summer Solstice, which means that we have the best daylight, best weather, and longest hours to continue to get in as many Naturist activities in as we can, hopefully whilst the sun shines! The weather has been a little indecisive, shall we say? Please remember water, keep hydrated, sun cream and maybe consider a jumper or rain mac too!
Find links to all the events mentioned, below.
It’s nearly time for Nudefest. We issued a press release which gives the media (and you) a peek into the fantastic line-up for the naked festival of the Year. I’m sure you will agree that the BN membership discount makes joining a no-brainer. Tell your friends! I am made up that the Holi Paint has skipped over from NKD! Just try it, maybe I’ll wear sunglasses, or googles, from previous experience, and dust as much off as you can before you attempt to shower!
After the euphoria of naked bike rides through the streets of London, Brighton, Edinburgh and Bristol there are more events this weekend and next at Chelmsford and Portsmouth! Some amazing photos are being posted on the members’ gallery (log in required).
Check out upcoming naked walks - it’s certainly been the weather for it lately - in Leicestershire, Oxfordshire, East Sussex and Essex.
If a beach in the sunshine is more your thing, we have three beach days under the banner of the Great British Skinny Dip. Join the North West region for their Annual Beach Day at the fabulous Morfa Dyffryn Beach in North Wales or the South West region at Ringstead Bay in Dorset. No booking needed for either, just remember sunscreen, towel and picnic and join friends for a day on the sun, sand, and skinny dipping! We’re also pleased to announce an event at Studland in conjunction with Dynamic Dunescapes and the National Trust on World Sand Dune Day, this Saturday. It’s an opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna, then help (naked) with conservation, clearing invasive species and litter. Numbers are limited, so do reserve your place.
Check out other Great British Skinny Dips happening soon, including at the iconic, outdoor lido at Peterborough this Saturday.
After a break of two years, the SANER region are  happy to welcome you back to the River Forth Boat Trip, sailing under three iconic bridges spanning the River Forth at South Queensferry on the Forth Princess, with a bar on board and live entertainment.
After a record naked Garden visits last week, there is another this week in one of Sussex's finest gardens. An ideal location to bring a friend and a picnic. The first weekend of July sees a naked visit to the National Trust’s Scotney Castle, in Kent. I am not sure which part of this event, stands out more? The picturesque 14th Century castle surrounded by a moat? The walled gardens? The add on Picnic hampers, which are actually cute little hampers? My girls would have their phones out for ‘the ‘gram’ - is it really real if it is not Instagram-able!).
 
Amanda
x
 
Camping
Nudefest 2022
Mon 04 Jul 2022 - Mon 11 Jul 2022
 
Walks
Leicestershire Naturist Walk - Hoby
Fri 24 Jun 2022, 12:30
Natram walk Sussex
Sun 26 2022 11:30 - 18:30
Stark Trekkers walk Brede Valley (E Sussex)
Mon 27 Jun 2022, 11:30-16:00
Natram walk Essex
Thu 30 Jun 2022, 11:30-18:30
Nettlebed Naturist Walk – 1st July 2022
Fri 01 Jul 2022, 12:30
 
 
World Naked Bike Rides
WNBR Chelmsford
Sat 25 Jun 2022, 14:00
WNBR Portsmouth 2 July 2022
Sat 02 Jul 2022, 11:00
 
The Great British Skinny Dip
Spectrum swim
Sat 18 Jun; Sat 25 Jun and  Sat 2 Jul 2022, 18:00 - 21:00
Morfa Dyffyn – North West Beach Day
Sat 25 Jun 2022
World Sand Dune Day - conservation work at Studland
Sat 25 Jun 2022, 15:00-17:00
Beach Day at Ringstead Bay Dorset
Sat 25 Jun 2022, 11:00
Peterborough Lido - Great British Skinny Dip
Sat 25 Jun 2022, 19:30-22:00
 
Other events including garden days
River Forth Boat Trip
Sat 25 Jun 2022, 15:00-17:00
High Beeches Garden
Sat 25 Jun 2022, 17:15-20:30
Haslemere Open Day
Sat 02 Jul 2022-Sun 03 Jul 2022
Naturist Yoga Class | Consett | Saturday 10:00-13:00
Sat 02 Jul 2022, 10:00-13:00
Visit to NT Scotney Castle
Sun 03 Jul 2022, 17:30-21:30
 
 
Swim meets
Club Naturel - Swim
Fri 24 Jun 2022, 20:00-22:00
Watford Naturist Swimming Club
Fri 24 Jun 2022 20:45 - 22:00
NORTH-WEST NATURISTS (Worsley Swim)
Sat 25 Jun 2022, 16:30-19:30
WirralNats Chester Swim
Sat 25 Jun 2022 18:15 - 20:00
Noah's Ark Naturist Swim
Sun 26 Jun 2022 16:00 - 18:00
Ryedale Naturist Club Swim
Sun 26 Jun 2022 15:00 - 17:00
Severn Vale Swimming Club
Sun 26 Jun 2022, 17:00-19:00
The Sunday Swim, Glasgow
Sun 26 Jun 2022, 18:30 - 21:15
The Potteries Swim
Sun 26 Jun 2022 19:30 - 20:30
Aquasol Swim
Wed 29 Jun 2022, 20:00 - 21:00
Manchester
Thu 30 Jun 2022, 19:00 - 20:30
Club Naturel
Fri 01 Jul 2022, 14:00 - 16:00
St. Anne’s beach day
Sat 02 Jul 2022, 11:00 - 16:00
Skinny Dip Aberdeen
Sat 02 Jul 2022
South Forest Leisure Centre
Sat 02 Jul 2022, 18:00 - 20:30
Forth
Sun 03 Jul 2022, 16:30 - 19:00
Studland Beach Day
Sun 03 Jul 2022
 
Events run by British Naturism - events.bn.org.uk
All other events (you can add your own!) - bn.org.uk/calendar
Online events - 20 each week! - shop.bn.org.uk/pages/online-home
The Great British Skinny Dip - greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk

Family Naturism – Someone is Missing: is it you?

Families have always been at the heart of the Naturist movement in the UK and the other day I saw this clearly demonstrated in some of the heritage photographs of the Sun-Folk Society (now British Naturism: Sunfolk).
Naturists often lament the fact that Naturism in the UK is depicted as mainly older men with few women and even fewer young people.  So what can we do to change this?  If we are to shift the balance to 50:50 males/females and bring in younger people one of the things we must surely do is focus on families.
Encouraging more young people into naturism must include an emphasis on families with young children.  Children will quite happily run around in the buff in the garden or on a beach.
But we all know it is when the children get older that it is often the adults around them who tell them that being naked in public is shameful or “wrong”.  Yet more and more people, particularly younger adults, are only too aware of the negative impact body shaming and body dysmorphia can have on people’s physical and mental wellbeing.  As Naturists we know that social nudity can have a positive impact on people’s lives so wouldn’t it be great if those young people could bring up their own families in a Naturist environment?
Young adults with families, like any group, need to see that British Naturism is relevant to them and one of the things that demonstrates this are images that reflect the fact that families are actively involved.
Families also need to feel welcomed and that their needs and interests are catered for.  Coming together as families and attending many of BN’s family-orientated events are important opportunities to practice family Naturism.  The Families Forum and regular online meet-ups are further examples of how BN supports families and parents. Some clubs also cater particularly well for families with separate facilities, play equipment or a children’s “den” for them to enjoy.
Something, or rather someone, is missing though!  The importance of family Naturism is recognised by British Naturism with the Executive Committee role of Families Officer, a role that unfortunately remains vacant.  If you currently have children under 18 years of age and would like to be involved in supporting, promoting and developing family Naturism why not consider the role? You will not be alone – there is a growing team of Regional Families contacts and a supportive group of parents and families who will welcome you with open arms.  You will also be supported by other EC members, the General Secretary and our fantastic events and marketing teams.
Further information about the role, including a role description, can be found on the BN forum (log in required). You can also have an informal chat about the role with John Gelder, Volunteering Officer, John Gelder or President, Mark Bass

Press release from British Naturism - it’s time for Nudefest 2022!

Nudefest - the biggest Naturist event in the UK.
Since its inception in 2007 as a small, weekend event, Nudefest has become the UK's biggest Naturist festival, attracting hundreds of people each year for a week of full-on fun and excitement, among like-minded people.
This year, it runs from 4th to 10th July at Thorney Lakes Caravan and Camping Park, Langport, Somerset. Activities include:
Masses of live music acts and entertainment Home-grown music at the Magic Teapot and karaoke A circus show Health and wellbeing including meditation, massage, yoga, fitness and aerobics classes, and sauna Sports, crafts, workshops, presentations, demonstrations and talks on a wide variety of topics A visit to the Cider Brandy Farm Body-painting Slip ’n’ slide  
British Naturism Events Manager and Nudefest organiser Mark Walsh said:
Nudefest is an important part of the year for so many Naturists. There is so much to do and see, but the real highlight for me is bringing the community together. People from all over the UK converge in Somerset for a week, meet old faces and form new friendships, all in an incredible body-positive setting.
 
British Naturism National Spokesman Andrew Welch said:
‘Participation in Naturism in the UK is on the rise like never before, with people now realising that Victorian attitudes to simple human nudity are completely outdated. We’re all the same underneath and it’s liberating to discover that there is no such thing as the perfect body. British Naturism has already welcomed over 500 new members in 2022 and through projects like the Great British Skinny Dip and our partnership with British Heart Foundation, we’re spreading the word far and wide about this relaxing, exhilarating - and above all, fun - way of being.
 
A handful of last-minute pitches are available - book at nudefest.co.uk
Media attendance is possible, with advance notice. We have people willing to be interviewed/photographed and stock photos for media use.
 
The event is kindly sponsored by:
Cypress Cove - cypresscoveresort.com
Hidden Valley - hiddenvalley.uk
BHH Naturist resort - naturistcanaries.com
 
For further information please visit:
nudefest.co.uk
bn.org.uk
 
Or contact:
BN national spokesman
Andrew Welch andrew.welch@bn.org.uk; 07774 955138
 

The Forum Live - visiting Vera Playa

We're off on our virtual travels next Monday, 27th June, as we welcome a panel of BN members who own apartments or regularly visit Vera Playa in the Almeria region of southern Spain. We also hope to hear from someone from Vera Playa Club hotel.
Vera Playa, as the name suggests, refers principally to the long, sandy nude beach, but a little town has grown up around it, including the hotel, many apartment blocks in 'urbanisations', restaurants, cafés and other entertainment. As you can see from the picture, nudity is not limited to the beach!
Access the (free) session via the BN shop.

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