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Events this weekend - and beyond

We like to bring you news stories of forthcoming events - it spreads the word, encourages more people to book and shows just how vibrant the Naturist scene is in the UK. However - I'm happy to say - there are far too many to promote them all individually and so here is a complete list of all the events happening over just the next weeks. Enjoy! And don't forget that we are always looking for reports on great gatherings for the magazine and elsewhere...
 
Himalayan Gardens
Clothing optional 2 kilometre Naked Heart Walk to raise money for the BHF
July 1
North Yorkshire
 
GBSD Meet & Greet
July 1
Join us at the remote and beautiful shingly beach of Ringstead Bay on the Jurassic coast with a mass dip at noon!!
Dorset
 
Nothing on a Saturday Night
July 1
Come along for a swim in a warm, friendly environment and then continue socialising in a local pub.
Lancashire
 
Beach Day
July 1
Join us for a naturist gathering at St. Annes beach, south of Blackpool
Lancashire
 
Spectrum Swim
July 1
Enjoy 3 hours of naturist swimming and socialising in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere
West Midlands
 
South Forest Swim
July 1, 15
On the 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month, limited to 60 people.
Nottinghamshire
 
Forth Naturist Swim
July 2
25m and children’s pools, sauna & steam rooms, sports hall plus refreshments available.
Midlothian
 
Glasgow  Swim
July 2
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas in a friendly, welcoming environment.
Lanarkshire
 
Cardiff Meet Up
July 2
A friendly coffee meet up on a Sunday afternoon, and is clothing optional.
Glamorgan
 
WNBR Hastings
July 2
Join this naked bike ride
East Sussex
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
July 2
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Nudefest
Britain’s biggest Naturist Festival
July 3 - 9
Somerset
 
Natram Walk
July 4
Join us for an 11 mile walk over the saltmarshes near Bradwell.
Essex
 
Pre Shap Lido Naked Walk
July 4
Clothing optional walk prior to the Lido Swim
July 4
 
GBSD at Shap Lido
July 4
Join us for our monthly visit to Shap Lido where the water is heated to 28°C.
Westmorland
 
Swim Bristol
July 5
Swim most Wednesdays in the Jubilee Pool.
Avon
 
Ladies Only Swim
July 7
Clothes optional swim in a privately owned heated indoor pool with Jacuzzi and sauna, showers, changing cubicles & toilet.
Norfolk
 
Watford Swims
July 7
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'! 
Hertfordshire
 
Swim Afternoon or Evening
July 7
Varied swim times organised by Club Naturel.
Norfolk
 
GBSD Meet & Greet
July 7
Join us at the remote and beautiful shingly beach of Ringstead Bay on the Jurassic coast with a mass dip at noon!!
Dorset
 
The Big Quiz
July 7
Online Quiz
Northern Ireland
 
GBSD Peterborough Lido
July 8, August 12
4 events booked for 2023 at this wonderful example of a 1930s Lido with 3 heated pools. The cafe will be open for snack and hot drinks.
 
Wigton Swim
July 8
Come and join us for a 2 hour Naturist Swim at Cumbria's only all year round Naturist Swimming facility.
Cumbria
 
WNBR Cardiff
July 8
Join us for this Naked Bike Ride
Glamorgan
 
WNBR Edinburgh
July 8
Join us for this naked bike ride.
Midlothian
 
Chester Swim
July 8
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Nats, with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Wirral
 
TROC Monthly Swim & Gym
July 8
A monthly naturist swim with an available gym.
Tyne & Wear
 
Prested Hall Spa Swim
July 9
Held on the 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month, pool, sauna, steam room, garden area and licenced bistro.
Essex
 
Ryedale Swim
July 9
Fortnightly swim
County Durham
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
July 9
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Potteries Swim
July 9
Swim and relax in a pleasant, friendly environment, alternate Sundays.
Staffordshire
 
Glasgow Swim
July 9
Scotland’s weekly naked swim, Turkish, sauna & yoga; with travelling rings and trapeze over the pool
Lanarkshire
 
Swim Plymouth
July 10
Twice monthly swims, both lane swimming and less energetic socialising, both in the pool and the pub afterwards.
Devon
 
Shaftesbury Lido Swim
July 11
Open air, 25m heated pool is a great place to swim.
Dorset
 
Walk the North Downs
July 11
Join us for a summertime stroll along a section of the North Downs Way (Pilgrims Way).
Kent
 
The Chat
July 11
Online chat
Northern Ireland
 
Scarborough Walk
July 12
Join us for a 5 mile naturist walk, flat countryside with stunning views
Yorkshire
 
Bristol Swim
July 12
Swim at the Jubilee pool
Avon
 
Walk Egg & Denger
July 13
An 11 mile walk through ancient forests on the North Downs plus a skinny dip on the return leg.
East Kent
 
Swim Afternoon or Evening
July 14
Varied swim times organised by Club Naturel.
Norfolk
 
Watford Swim
July 14
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'! 
Hertfordshire
 
The Big Quiz
July 14
Online
Northern Ireland
 
Evenly Wood
July 14
Enjoy this 60-acre privately owned woodland garden which contains a notable collection of plants, unusual trees and shrubs.
Northamptonshire
 
NHW Fonthill Estate
July 15
Clothes optional, Naked Heart Walk through amazing countryside but can be challenging with several hills to negotiate.
Wiltshire
 
Forth Boat Trip
July 15
Sail under the 3 iconic bridges spanning the River Forth.
Midlothian
 
Boujie Bingo
July 15
Bingo with a difference at Tando!
Tyne & Wear
 
Swim South Forest
July 15
Swim naturally in your local indoor complex with pool and flume, children’s pool, sauna, Jacuzzi
Nottinghamshire
 
Swim Bury St Edmunds
July 15
A regular swim plus sauna and steam room.
Suffolk
 
Birmingham Swim
July 15
Spectrum swims most Saturdays of the year.
West Midlands
 
Boules & Sport Weekend
July 15 & 16
Boules, water volleyball, Miniten, pickleball and swimming.
Buckinghamshire
 
Swim at Haddington
July 16
Join our swim featuring a 25m & children’s pool, sauna and steam room plus refreshments!
East Lothian
 
Nudie Dudie Swim
July 16
Swim at Llantwit Major Leisure Centre.
Vale of Glamorgan
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
July 16
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Meet & Greet
July 16
For a chat and a pint.
Vale of Glamorgan
 
NW Bowls Event
July 16
Annual BN North West Bowls Competition
Cheshire
 
Rosslyn Glamping
July 16 to July 23
Clothing optional glamping / camping week.
Norfolk
 
My thanks to David Smith for putting the list together... 
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash

Return to Jupiter Artland

BN's SANER region (Scotland and Northern England, incorporating Northern Ireland) are delighted to invite you to a return visit to the incredible Jupiter Artland garden, near Edinburgh
Jupiter Artland - as you can see from Andy's stunning image - is a feast for the eye with quirky artworks, woodland walks, fantastic earthwork mounds and meadow areas.
The event takes place on the evening of 6 August - find out more and book your tickets over in the BN shop.
...and whilst we're north of the border - don't forget these events coming up soon!

A legal helpline - a NEW membership benefit from British Naturism

Supporting and protecting the rights of Naturists from legal challenges is one of the central and most recognised purposes of British Naturism.
Nudity is lawful in the UK without malign, compounding factors, but we know that people can attract the attention of the authorities due to misunderstanding of the law. 
For many years members have benefited from the services of BN members Peter and Christine Wright as the in-house legal team. They have, among other things, operated a helpline for members, as well as supporting them by taking the role of expert witnesses and advising on police matters, safeguarding and employment questions. We know that members attach great value the fact that they are able to gain access to legal assistance when they need it.
A year ago they notified the BN office of their intention to retire from being on call but it is essential that we continue to support members facing legal challenges, so we are pleased to announce that we have contracted with a practising solicitor to operate a helpline for members who run into difficulties with the criminal law or the police. 
An initial consultation of up to 30 minutes by telephone will be provided - the fee covered by British Naturism.  The service applies in relation to matters occurring in all the United Kingdom legal jurisdictions: England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Any further consultations or advice after the 30 minutes will be on a case-by-case basis and not necessarily paid for by British Naturism. 
The service is limited to criminal matters, including encounters with the police, relating to your practice of naturism.  If a civil matter arises, members should in the first instance contact the British Naturism head office.
The service is available only to current members of British Naturism. You can find out how to make use of it on the forum (log in required)
We would like to thank Peter and Christine Wright warmly for the work they have done on a voluntary basis for British Naturism and its members over more than two decades.  Not only have they provided reassuring advice as a first point of contact, they were also instrumental in the campaigning work that helped shape the current CPS guidance and the College of Policing document, to say nothing of lobbying work that helped prevent the Sexual Offences Act of 2003 inadvertently criminalising naturist activities. We are also grateful that they have offered to remain available, albeit in more of a background role.
Not a member? It's easy to join...

The Forum Live - Live from Nudefest!

Next week's the Forum Live (3 July) will be broadcast live from Thorney Lakes Caravan and Camping Park in Somerset, the location for British Naturism's annual Flagship event, Nudefest!
This year, the festival runs from 3 - 9 July and on Monday night, at the end of the first day when we hope to have all the arrivals settled in and anticipating a terrific activity and fun-packed week ahead, I'll tour the site, showing you what's there and what to expect, as well as chatting to members of the Nudefest team, including the event's organiser, Mark Walsh. You can see the programme of activities here.
Join on the night over in the BN shop

Naked Heart Walk - Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park - this weekend!

Our Naked Heart Walks have been a roaring success so far this summer with hundreds of people enjoying fantastic locations in the buff and not-so-buff. We've welcomed many newcomers who can't wait to do it again. Oh, and we've also raised money for British Heart Foundation!
This Saturday, July 1, sees our next walk, at the stunning Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park near Ripon in Yorkshire. If you haven't bought a ticket, you'll be pleased to know it's not too late!
Find all the details here and head over to our dedicated website to get yourself up to date with the whole concept of a Naked Heart Walk
 
Image: Mark Bass

New, Idyllic Eco-Haven at Charco Del Palo

Eco Beach - Lanzarote
Michelle Braddock of Lanzarote Retreats, tells BN ...
We’d been creating and managing holiday accommodation in Lanzarote for nearly 15 years when the opportunity arose to acquire an old restaurant in the Naturist resort of Charco del Palo. There was something about the building and its location right next to the ocean that spoke to us. And before we knew it, we were midway through a renovation to turn the site into a luxury, eco villa that would fit with our existing Lanzarote Retreats portfolio.
Venturing into the Naturist market was completely new territory for us, but the more we read, and the more we talked about it, the more clearly we realised there was a growing interest in Naturism. What’s more, the setting of our new villa – offering complete privacy in a serene environment away from the tourist hotspots – was going to appeal to our guests, whether they were wanting to bare it all or not. And the beauty of Eco Beach is that it sleeps up to 10 people on an exclusive basis; perfect for getting together with like-minded friends and family.
Peace and privacy at Eco Beach
Each of the five apartment-style bedrooms has a kitchenette and ensuite bathroom so you can enjoy your own space. The villa benefits from a spacious living and dining area, communal bar, and industrial kitchen, perfect for socialising. There is also a large studio for yoga and Pilates – we can arrange for instructors to come in if required – and a roof terrace with views over the ocean.
The outdoor area is a private oasis with lush tropical gardens and an eight-metre, solar-heated swimming pool for putting in a few laps. Or choose just to top up the tan from the comfort of one of the sun loungers.
Charco del Palo resort
The first official nude resort in the Canaries, Charco del Palo has a restaurant, cafes, bars, art galleries and shops. Directly in front of the villa is a gorgeous terraced white sand beach featuring a volleyball court and tidal sea pools, so you needn’t venture far for a dip.
There’s hiking and mountain biking on the doorstep and it’s one of the best sites for scuba diving on the island. We have a fleet of Toyota hybrid cars that guests can hire during their stay, and we can arrange for meals to be delivered if you fancy a night off cooking without needing to go out.
Go off-grid
Like our other properties, Eco Beach was designed with sustainability at the heart of the project. Features include solar panels to heat the water (with backup gas heaters) and power all the electricity needed at the retreat. There is also a purpose-built rainwater collection system, which is really important on an arid, volcanic island. We don’t think a sustainable holiday has to mean scrimping on modern technology: free Wi-Fi means you can stay connected if you want to.
Ask about our discount for BN Members!
www.lanzaroteretreats.com/holiday_home/eco-beach
+34 928 826720

Events this weekend and beyond...

We like to bring you news stories of forthcoming events - it spreads the word, encourages more people to book and shows just how vibrant the Naturist scene is in the UK. However - I'm happy to say - there are far too many to promote them all individually and so here is a complete list of all the events happening over just the next weeks. Enjoy! And don't forget that we are always looking for reports on great gatherings for the magazine and elsewhere...
 
Open Water Swim
June 23
Clothing optional, in a lake with a life guard and a café to warm up in after.
Leicestershire
 
Wyvern Club Solo Weekend
June 23 to 26
A fabulous chance to join for a solo weekend to celebrate the club’s 40th birthday.
Herefordshire
 
Rosslyn Glamping
June 23 to July 2
Clothing optional glamping / camping week.
Norfolk
 
Club Naturel Swim
June 23, 30, July 7
Afternoon and evening swims several times per month.
Norfolk
 
Watford Naturist Swimming Club
June 23
Come and join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'! 
 
GBSD Meet & Greet
June 24
Join us at the remote and beautiful shingly beach of Ringstead Bay on the Jurassic coast with a mass dip at noon!!
Dorset
 
International Sand Dune Day
June 24
Join us on a guided walk through the dunes of Studland beach followed by an early season litter pick.
Dorset
 
Mildenhall Naturist Swim
June 24
Join our regular swim in Newmarket
Suffolk
 
Miniten Taster Day
A fun taster day, learn how to play and have a few games and meet new friends
June 24
Buckinghamshire
 
Beacon Tarn Skinny Dip and Walk
June 24
GBSD annual naked walk and skinny dip
Cumbria
 
Worsley Swim
June 24
NW Naturists run swim with optional massage, drinks and homemade cakes.
Greater Manchester
 
Chester Swim
June 24
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Nats, with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Wirral
 
Spectrum Swim
June 24
Enjoy 3 hours of naturist swimming and socialising in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere
West Midlands
 
Outdoor Badminton
June 24
Outdoor badminton or maybe a run around the woodlands or Spikeball.
Tyne & Wear
 
High Beeches Garden
June 24
With 27 acres of woodland, water gardens and a collection of rare and exotic plants, this visit is not to be missed.
Sussex
 
Prested Hall Spa Swim
June 25, July 9
Held on the 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month, pool, sauna, steam room, garden area and licenced bistro.
Essex
 
Noah’s Ark Swim
June 25
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
 
Ryedale Swim
June 25
Fortnightly swim
County Durham
 
 
Sunday Swim
June 25
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas in a friendly, welcoming environment.
Lanarkshire
 
Beach Day
June 25, July 1
Join us for a naturist gathering at St. Annes beach, south of Blackpool
Lancashire
 
Tewkesbury Swim
June 25
Regular naturist swim session at Tewkesbury Leisure Centre, held on 2nd, 4th and 5th Sunday of every month.
Gloucestershire
 
The Potteries Swim
June 25
A naturist swim meeting alternative Sundays
Staffordshire
 
Naturist Walk
June 27
A circular walk of 8 miles on Brown Clee Hill.
Shropshire
 
Natram Walk Box Hill
June 27
Join us for an 11 mile stroke around Box Hill but does include some strenuous climbs.
Surrey
 
Outdoor Badminton
June 28
A chance to play outdoors mid week after work, and maybe a sauna when the outside temperature drops.
Tyne & Wear
 
Swim Bristol
June 28
Aquasol meet most Wednesdays.
Bristol
 
Male Naturist Swim
June 29
A weekly male only swim.
Greater Manchester
 
Nettlebed Naturist Walk
June 30
Join us for a 7 mile walk, which is quite hilly with a few steep climbs.
Oxfordshire
 
Camping & Bunkhouse Weekend
June 30
Clothing optional weekend.
County Down
 
Himalayan Gardens
Clothing optional 2 kilometre Naked Heart Walk to raise money for the BHF
July 1
North Yorkshire
 
GBSD Meet & Greet
July 1
Join us at the remote and beautiful shingly beach of Ringstead Bay on the Jurassic coast with a mass dip at noon!!
Dorset
 
Nothing on a Saturday Night
July 1
Come along for a swim in a warm, friendly environment and then continue socialising in a local pub.
Lancashire
 
South Forest Swim
July 1, 15
On the 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month, limited to 60 people.
Nottinghamshire
 
Forth Naturist Swim
July 2
25m and children’s pools, sauna & steam rooms, sports hall plus refreshments available.
Midlothian
 
Cardiff Meet Up
July 2
A friendly coffee meet up on a Sunday afternoon, and is clothing optional.
Glamorgan
 
WNBR Hastings
July 2
Join this naked bike ride
East Sussex
 
Nudefest   Britain’s biggest Naturist Festival   July 3 - 9   Somerset  
Natram Walk
July 4
Join us for an 11 mile walk over the saltmarshes near Bradwell.
Essex
 
GBSD at Shap Lido
July 4
Join us for our monthly visit to Shap Lido where the water is heated to 28°C.
Westmorland
 
Ladies Only Swim
July 7
Clothes optional swim in a privately owned heated indoor pool with Jacuzzi and sauna, showers, changing cubicles & toilet.
Norfolk
 
GBSD Peterborough Lido
July 8, August 12
4 events booked for 2023 at this wonderful example of a 1930s Lido with 3 heated pools. The cafe will be open for snack and hot drinks.
 
My thanks to David Smith for putting the list together... 

Press release from British Naturism - The Great British Skinny Dip 2023!

This summer, thousands of people across the UK will be taking the plunge and skinny dipping to raise money for British Heart Foundation (BHF) while experiencing the exhilaration  of being naked. They will improve their mental and physical health and well-being, boost their body confidence, and reduce their stress. They will also have great fun!
The Great British Skinny Dip is a campaign by British Naturism (BN) aimed at raising funds for the BHF, and:
Promoting greater understanding of Naturism and social nudity  Encouraging acceptance and participation in Naturism Improving facilities and opportunities for Naturism Promoting body confidence and well-being Participation in Naturism is on the rise, with BN reporting significant increases in new joiners since the 2020 lockdown. An Ipsos poll commissioned by British Naturism in 2022 revealed (pun intended) that almost 7 million Britons describe themselves as ‘Naturists’ or ‘Nudists’.
Find all forthcoming events on the Great British Skinny Dip calendar - there's even a map so you can easily locate dips in your area.
It's not too late for more dips to be added - if you are a venue owner or manager and would like to join in - please let us know!
Andrew Welch, National spokesman for British Naturism, said:
“Taboos around nudity are eroding and the health and well-being benefits of going naked are more widely understood, with more and more people wanting to shrug off convention and the rigours of daily life and experience it for themselves. Swimming without a costume is one of the most exhilarating things you can do and we want encourage everyone to come and give it a go - and raise much needed funds for our charity partner, British Heart Foundation.
Ben Bishop, BHF Fundraising Manager, said:
“There are lots of ways you can support the BHF and this is one of the more unusual, but why not try something new?
“It is an opportunity to free yourself from everyday constraints and take part knowing that you will be helping our researchers find the new treatments and cures that can keep families together longer.”
We have people willing to be interviewed/photographed and stock photos for media use.
Media attendance is possible, with advance notice.
Contacts and links
British Naturism:
Andrew Welch
andrew.welch@bn.org.uk
07774 955138
greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk 
bn.org.uk
British Heart Foundation:
Will Slater
slaterw@bhf.org.uk
07818 510 100
bhf.org.uk

Press release from British Naturism - It’s time for Nudefest 2023!

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 3rd to 9th July at Thorney Lakes Caravan and Camping Park, Langport, Somerset.
 
The packed programme includes:
Masses of live music, comedy acts and entertainment including silent discos
Freefall - 60 foot drop activity
A circus show
Health and wellbeing including meditation, massage, yoga, fitness and aerobics classes, three  saunas and a hot tub
Sports, crafts, workshops, presentations, demonstrations and talks on a wide variety of topics
A visit to the Cider Brandy Farm
Foraging
Holi Paint fight
Circle Dancing
Slip ’n’ slide
On-site catering including a bar and an inflatable pub
BBQ night
Afternoon Tea
 
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:
‘The UK Naturist community always looks forward to our flagship summer event. When I started it 17 years ago I had no idea it would become the sensation that it has. As well as regulars, we welcome new people every year - not only those new to Nudefest but those new to social nudity and many of the entertainers and suppliers join in. It doesn’t surprise us - an Ipsos poll in 2022 revealed (pun intended) that there are seven million Naturists in the UK. Through our year-round national and local events plus initiatives like Naked Heart Walks and the Great British Skinny Dip in partnership with the British Heart Foundation, we’re inspiring people to try this relaxing, healthy, 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 but only 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
Vritomartis Hotel - vritomartis.com
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

'Bouled Over' at Valley Club

Valley Club in Harrogate were delighted to welcome a number of BN members to their recent BN Boules Taster Day.
An abundance of cake helped fuel the players through a morning of tuition under the expert guidance of Nigel, the club’s Sports Secretary, before a closely fought singles tournament which saw Caroline crowned winner.
Club members were delighted to have the opportunity to show off their extensive grounds and to welcome visitors to the event
Visitor Nick Holland said "I had a wonderful time at the boules day at Valley Sun Club. I'd never played before, but expert tuition was on hand and I even managed to pick up a point or two (before losing) in the tournament. I enjoyed it so much that I immediately hopped online and bought my own boules. The weather was glorious, but the greeting from all at the club was even warmer - a fabulous Naturist club in beautiful surroundings filled with friendly, welcoming people (and cake). What more could anyone want?” These sentiments were echoed by Paul, who added “My first time at Valley Club and trying boules. Both were great - very friendly and a lot of fun. Many thanks to Nigel for his patient tutoring. A brilliant day. Try it!”
A huge thank you to Richard and Nigel at Valley for Hosting the event and letting so many BN members have such a great day. Valley Club welcomes visitors and offers camping facilities between April and October. A caravan is available for hire and caravans, motorhomes, tents and well-behaved dogs are all welcome. More information is available at www.valley-sun-club.co.uk.
If you would like to try Boules, Diogenes Sun Club are hosting three events - 15 July, 20 August and 17 September. Or if you prefer to try Miniten (mini tennis) they are hosting a taster day this Saturday, 24th June. Places are still available.

Celebrate World Sand Dune Day at Studland!

Celebrate World Sand Dune Day - this Saturday, 24 June - by joining us on a walk through the dunes in the Naturist area behind Studland beach, led by National Trust volunteers, to learn about the Dynamic Dunescapes project and see the landscape and its flora and fauna from a new perspective! We’ll hear about how the area is being managed and conserved, and have the chance to remove some invasive mosses under supervision, so if possible bring gardening gloves and a small trowel.  This will be followed by an early season litter-pick and the chance to socialise, enjoy the beach and have a dip!
 
More details over on the BN calendar
 

From the Boardroom

Our quarterly update about what BN's management team have been concerned with lately. Don't forget the quarterly 'Ask The Executive' session which takes place on The Forum Live next Monday, 26th
Arrivals and departures
We welcomed Nick Mayhew- Smith to the Executive Committee as Clubs Officer. This is a key position within the leadership team which we have been keen to fill, and having somebody with Nick’s experience and knowledge on board to oversee and improve the relationship between British Naturism and its clubs is very good news.
We also welcomed Amanda Lee to the general office, in which capacity she will be covering for Alana during her maternity leave. Many of you will know Amanda from events and her presence on the forum.
Elections
It’s good news that we have nominations for all the Director posts that are up for election this time – President, Vice-Chair and International director – and for the Eastern and South-west regional organisers (in the South-west, the deputy as well). However, we currently lack a nomination for Yorkshire and East Midlands regional organiser. Expressions of interest in that post would be welcome.
For the first time for a very long time, we have a contested election for one of the posts – namely that of International Director, with two excellent candidates competing to succeed Edwin Kilby, who is stepping down from that post following his election as vice- president of the International Naturist Federation (INF). Also stepping down in October will be Jon Williams, the current vice-chair, and Andrew Calow, the current regional organiser for Yorkshire and East Midlands region. 
Although not formally part of the election cycle this time, we must point out that BN still lacks a finance director – although we are ably assisted by Robin Dearle. If you have the right skills and could offer some of your time volunteering for BN, please don’t hesitate to get in touch – we would love to hear from you.
Members will find voting forms with the paper copy of their magazine and voting is also possible online (log in required)
Events: Alton Towers
We received the immensely disappointing news that, as a result of changes to its commercial arrangements, Alton Towers will no longer be able to host our November weekends in a manner which is viable both for them and for us. Our event has been dependent on our having exclusive use of the Splash Landings hotel and the waterpark, something that they can no longer entertain. It has been clear throughout that the decision is entirely driven by commercial considerations, and not due to any antipathy towards British Naturism or the dress-code of its members.
We know that the Alton Towers weekend has been a fixture in many members’ diaries for many years. We gather that BN’s weekend is not the only event  affected by these new arrangements.
Mark Walsh has been looking to create new events to try to fill the gap. A new event at Blackpool is on sale. Meanwhile, British Naturism and Alton Towers maintain a strong working relationship, and will be looking for possibilities for the future.
In more positive news, we are pleased to report that a new venue has been found for The Gathering, the flagship event in Scotland. It will now take place in Stirling at the end of October.
Women in Naturism (WiN)
The Executive Committee welcomed Helen Berriman, BN’s WiN officer, to its April meeting.  It’s well known that British Naturism has significantly more male members than female, a pattern that is repeated in many countries worldwide.  The challenge is how to do more to make organised Naturism more attractive to women, in particular.  Helen put forward a variety of proposals in this regard and more work will be done on this topic during the summer.
Sunfolk
The project to renew and improve Sunfolk to make it into a gold-standard Naturist venue continues.  At the time of writing the weather had led to some minor delays to the work but it is expected that these will be caught up during the summer.
We launched an ambitious crowdfunding initiative designed to generate some funds to build a modernised sauna and a hot tub – both features Sunfolk users had been calling for - and we were successful! Please look out for news of other ways in which you could contribute to an important part of the scheme.
International
British Naturism – and its forerunner, the Central Council for British Naturism (CCBN) – is a member of the INF and has been since it was founded in 1953.  The INF brings together Naturist federations from around the world and our participation means that by joining BN you are a member not only of a national group but also a much larger global community of naturists.
In September the INF will be celebrating its 70th anniversary at Montalivet in France, where it was founded.  You are invited to join this celebratory weekend – read more in the events section of the INF website. You can also read about the latest activities within the INF in its newsletter, FOCUS, which comes out every two months.
Office address
Since the closure of the Northampton office, we have been using a “virtual” office address.  Unfortunately, the company that offered this service has decided to close down this aspect of its business.  In future, BN’s registered address and its correspondence address will be the same: British Naturism c/o Kilby Fox Accountants, 4 Pavilion Court, 600 Pavilion Drive, Northampton NN4 6SL.
And finally...
Our General Secretary, Tracey Major, marked 35 years of working for British Naturism.  Having joined as part of the youth training scheme in 1988, she has stayed ever since. She oversaw the transition from the old CCBN to today’s British Naturism, and the change from being club-led to member-led.  She supervised the establishment of BN as a company in 2010.  Dozens of executive committee members have come and gone over all this time, and the one constant has been Tracey.
BN President, Mark Bass, summed up his feelings thus:
“Tracey is the heart and soul of the organisation.  She is hugely respected by all members, but I can guarantee she deserves even more than that.  We would not be where we are today were it not for Tracey’s work, commitment and insight.  British Naturism is a hugely complicated organisation and Tracey is the only person to truly understand it.  I know that I would not be here were it not for Tracey.  You have my undying gratitude.”
And so say all of us.  Thank you, Tracey!

Keep Busy with BN!

Don’t forget all the wonderful things you can get from the UK's National Naturist Organisation. There is plenty going on within our community including a lot of free content.
Join in our online events - from yoga to a pub quiz, and interviews to fitness classes. There are around 60 each month!
Read over one thousand articles on our news pages about a wide variety of Naturist and Naturist-related subjects
Visit goodtimes.bn.org.uk and discover how amazing and vibrant our community is.
Learn about our many campaigns, including inspiring, first-person stories from Women in Naturism
Follow us on social media - we're active on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter
Consider volunteering with British Naturism - checkout the volunteering pages on the BN website
Sign up for our regular newsletter and get information straight to your inbox
The members' side of our website is chock-full of interesting stuff. Naturists all over the country are currently discussing and debating a variety of topics - not all related to Naturism - and finding information, viewing event and other images, reading blogs
and more. It also contains a variety of interesting and useful downloads including full copies of BN Magazine back to 2004! There's even a guide on how to log in and use the members' section of the website, and a new Quickstart Guide to help you find your way around...
Not a member? It's easy to join...

Naked Visit to Dorothy Clive Garden

If you haven't bought a ticket yet for this fabulous naked garden visit on 21st June, then here's a reminder!
Located in glorious countryside on the North Staffordshire, Shropshire and Cheshire borders, the garden is both formal and informal, hosting a network of paths that invite the visitor to explore and discover the intimacy and tranquility of the garden.
Find out more including how to book over in the BN shop
 
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Bring on the boats...

Here's information on not one, but two boat trips coming up  in BN's SANER region.
River Forth
The first is our popular river Forth trip on the 15th July where guests will sail under the three iconic bridges spanning the River Forth at South Queensferry for a two hour Naturist afternoon on the Forth Princess with both enclosed heated saloon and open decks to enjoy the afternoon sunshine.  There is a bar on board and live entertainment.
Details and booking over in the BN shop
 
Farne Islands
On 29th July, we will be back on the water, enjoying a private Naturist trip round the Farne Islands from Seahouses Harbour and seeing the seals and sea birds.
Details and booking also over in the BN shop
 
Look forward to welcoming you on board!
 

Announcing a new BN Members' Holiday!

Following a successful group holiday for BN members only in Gran Canaria in April this year, we're pleased to launch a NEW group holiday to El Portús in Spain. 
Situated on Spain’s Costa Calida and nestling in a sheltered, south-facing bay, with spectacular mountain and sea views, El Portús is the prime Naturist holiday destination in Southern Spain,  right on a nude beach, with swimming pool, restaurant, bar and shop, plus a spa where group members get a 20% discount.  The cosmopolitan city of Cartagena, with Roman sites including a large theatre, museums, 15th Century Castle, Civil War refuges, art galleries, marina, shops, bars and restaurants is nearby.
The group will be led by BN members who will also arrange an activity programme to keep you busy and socialising1 
Find out more including accommodation choices and prices over in the BN shop. Booking will open on Monday 19th June, but you can register your interest now.
 
Image: El Portús at 0700 CET today...

The Forum Live - Ask the Executive

The next quarterly Ask the Executive session will take place Monday week, 26 June at 7:30pm.
It's a chance for members to meet and ask questions of British Naturism's Executive Committee and hear from officers and other volunteer role holders.
It's open to all British Naturism members and is expected to last an hour. Questions for the Directors and Executive Committee members on any relevant subject will be welcome. To help us manage the session and to provide the best possible answers we would welcome questions in advance, and we will take these first. Subject to time constraints we will take questions on the night as well. 
If you have a question, please send it to headoffice@bn.org.uk
Join the session here
  
Photo by Marius Oprea on Unsplash 

The Forum Live - interviewing Naked Wanderings

I'm delighted to say that my guests next Monday 19th June on the Forum Live will be Nick and Lins, globally-renowned Naturist bloggers! It's the third time we've been fortunate enough to have their participation and we look forward to hearing more about their recent naked adventures including travels and experiences in South Africa, Thailand and even Bali!
Find out more about Naked Wanderings at nakedwanderings.com.
Join the session on the night over in the BN shop

Make a Splash for Sunfolk - success!

Our crowdfunding campaign to help finance the hot tub, sauna and associated facilities at Sunfolk has just closed, so I wanted to give members a quick update on how we got on.
I’m delighted to confirm that the campaign has been a real success, attracting over 100 separate donations, and raising just over £40k - slightly more than the target we had set ourselves and I want to say thanks on behalf of the Sunfolk project team for the most generous support of this latest initiative. Personally, I continue to be humbled by the level of support and goodwill from many members towards the work we are doing to secure Sunfolk for naturism for the years ahead.
The money we have raised will allow us to deliver these new facilities with confidence ahead of the site re-opening in 2024.
Jon Williams
BN Vice-Chair
sunfolk.bn.org.uk

Naked Dining in Rural Hampshire!

Join the LASER team and Naturist Ramblers on 22 June for a return visit to the Mill Arms, Dunbridge, for an evening of dinner and skittles. We’ll have exclusive use of the pub’s function room, with its own bar and toilets – meaning you can be naked throughout the evening. Choose from a two- or three-course menu ahead of the event, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options available.
And - if you’re inclined to spend the night - the pub has six rooms available on 21 and 22 June, with full breakfast included. And you can enjoy your breakfast in the buff!
There will also be a naturist evening at nearby Houghton Lodge gardens on Wednesday 21 June, and an 11-mile naked walk leaving from the Mill Arms on 22 June. Sounds like a fantastic clothing-free few days!
Details and booking here!
Photo by Edward Franklin on Unsplash

Naked diners win strong community support after negative reporting

BN member Neil and his friend Danielle made news recently when they visited a pub in Burnham au naturel. According to the report, some of their fellow diners were shocked and upset by the pair, and some allegedly gave negative TripAdvisor reviews (the veracity of several of which Neil questioned).
Despite this, Neil said, he and Danielle felt warmly welcomed by the pub staff and other customers. Comments on local social media were generally positive and gave the two a chance to introduce themselves and explain their actions. Moreover, after Neil provided some pre-publication input into the article, the paper agreed to make some minor changes to offer a more balanced view.
This is all great news, but here’s the best part: After the pub’s first-ever encounter with naked diners, its owners still back their decision to allow Neil and Dani (who checked with them ahead of time) to attend. Not only that, but pub regulars are organising a get-together to show support to the owners who are well known in the community for their kindness and inclusivity.
To thank them, Neil wants to “make a big gesture from the Naturist community.” He’s donated £250 for the event and is hoping others will come up with more.
Could this lead to a more positive tale about Naturism and naked dining?
Stay tuned!
Donations can be made at https://gofund.me/cf32b62b
 
Picture by Sebastian Roberts

INF Focus - latest issue

British Naturism is the UK member of the International Naturist Federation, the global organisation for Naturists that exists to represent, support and coordinate Naturist activity worldwide. If you are a BN member, you are automatically a member of the INF! You can find out more at inf-fni.com. 
Their newsletter - Focus - is published every two months and provides an update as to what’s going on in the INF and beyond.
The latest issue is out now and available via the INF website here - https://downloads.inf-fni.org/download/345/2023/2433/ff-june-23-eng.pdf
Enjoy!

GBSDs in June are busting out all over!

Many of you will be familiar with Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical “Carousel” and its famous song, “June is Busting Out All Over.” Well, June is indeed busting out all over—not just in my veggie patch, but on the BN Great British Skinny Dip calendar! I count 19 so far, some regular swims, some occasional. That doesn’t mean we couldn’t use more!
We’re still lookin’ at you for suggestions for venues and events.
Several of this month’s swims are behind us, but here’s what’s ahead - including one today!
June 6
Shap Lido, Cumbria
June 9
Petersfield Open Air Swimming Pool, Hampshire
June 10
Heysham Half Moon Bay Beach Day & Skinny Dip, Lancashire
Wigton, Cumbria
Spectrum Swim, Birmingham (Also takes place on June 17 and 24)
Ladies Only Swim, South Forest Centre – Nottinghamshire
Peterborough Lido, Cambridgeshire
June 11
Northampton Sun Group, Northampton
June 17
Spectrum Swim, Birmingham 
Ringstead Bay Beach Day, Dorset 
June 24
Ringstead Bay Beach Day, Dorset 
Worsley Complex, Manchester
Spectrum Swim, Birmingham
June 25
Portslade Naturist Beach, East Sussex
 
Remember, these swims are more than just a chance to strip off and get in the water – as fantastic as that is! They’re a great way to introduce family, friends and colleagues to Naturism – and to raise much-needed funds for our charity partner the British Heart Foundation.
To find out more about the Great British Skinny Dip and all dips for later in 2023, please visit greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk
 
 

Are you ready for ... Badminton in the Buff?

SANER Sport, in conjunction with TANDO Naturist club, are hosting not one, but two badminton events on Saturday 10 and 24 June 2023. 
Roundnet/Spikeball and volleyball are also available, as are the facilities of TANDO club.
On the 24th, there is also a mini-skinny dip at Druridge Bay.
Find all the details, including how to book can be found at:
Saturday 10th June - https://www.bn.org.uk/calendar/event/7804-outdoor-badmintonsport-tando/
Saturday 24th June -https://www.bn.org.uk/calendar/event/7805-outdoor-badmintonsport-tando/

The Forum Live - from the Lakes to Land's End...

Join us on next week's The Forum Live (Monday 12th June) when we take a look at the wide range of activity coming up this summer in two of our regions - the North West and the South West.
Regional organisers Ron O'Hare and Andy Dyer and members of their respective teams will provide information about what to expect - and inspire you to come along. There are beach days, clubs events, sport gatherings, swims, walks, bike rides and camping and hotel breaks.
Who knows, you might also be inspired to come and be part of the regional team!
Join the session on the night over in the BN shop
Photo by Jonny Gios on Unsplash (That's Rydal Water, by the way, no events arranged there, but who knows what the future might hold...)

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