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Houghton Lodge Gardens - Naturist event next week!

Following successful evenings in summer 2021, we’re delighted that Sophie and her team at Houghton Lodge will be hosting further Naturist evenings in 2022. It's wonderful when the venues themselves decide to organise nude events!
The gardens are a delightful mix of wooded areas, lawns and more formal areas with paths leading down to the river Test.
The first event in which the gardens will be open exclusively for Naturists is next Wednesday, June 15th, at 5:30 p.m. and will run through to around 8 to 8:30 p.m.
There's another event on August 25th
The cost for entry will by £9.50 and is payable on the door - cash is preferred, but the gardens will also accept cards. There is no need to pre-book online for this event
We expect the café and terrace to be open throughout the evening, subject of course to whatever COVID restrictions are in place at the time (hopefully none!)
If you have any questions about this event, please contact BN Vice Chair Jon Williams
Houghton Lodge Gardens

The Forum Live Debate: EveryBODY Welcome – Improving Equality and Diversity in British Naturism

As we celebrate Pride month, we are all keenly aware that some sectors of society have not always experienced the support and welcome that we would expect in modern society, and that some sectors have experienced quite the opposite.  Although British Naturism would never condone any form of discrimination, there is imbalance in the demographic groups that make up our membership.  Young adults, parents, women and people of colour are all under-represented compared to national averages, and we have an obligation to improve our equality and diversity so everybody feels welcome.
In this month’s debate we will brainstorm ideas for what we might do to make the less represented groups feel comfortable so that we can expand our membership and make Naturism accessible to everybody.
We look forward to seeing you all on Monday 13th June - access the session via this link (log in required)
 

The Forum Live - Ask the Executive

Once a quarter, we dedicate a Forum Live session where members meet and ask questions of British Naturism's Executive Committee. The next session will take place on Monday week, the 20th June at 7:30pm.
The event is 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 

Events this weekend - and beyond!

Happy Bank Holiday weekend and best wishes to Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of Her other Realms and Territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith, Or Queen Elizabeth!
To mark her 70 years on the throne, there are some special Platinum Jubilee themed events, this weekend.
Nudestock has been taking place all week in Doncaster and will  continue this weekend with an afternoon tea in the Green Barn. Day passes are available, from the BN Shop.
BN’s Eastern region are presenting the Ultimate Jubilee Weekend Naked Water Event! Travel on an original Thames sailing barge leaving from Maldon in Essex, on Saturday. Boarding from 1pm, for departure at 3pm. The 2-hour cruise includes a buffet. A licenced bar will be available also.
A final chance to visit Goltho Gardens, near Lincoln for a clothes optional morning. The Coffee shop will be open and there will be an optional visit to nearby Goltho Woods in the afternoon. Sadly, this will be the last ever visit to Goltho Gardens as the gardens will close permanently in September.
Hillside Sunbathing Society invites BN members to join them to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee in Naturist style at their open social with an array of outside games and activities on offer, as well as an afternoon bring your own BBQ  For an invitation, please contact the Membership Secretary, in advance.
There are a selection of walks this week. The North West are leading their annual trip to Beacon Tarn for a Naked Walk and Skinny Dip as part of the Great British Skinny Dip. In the LASER region you can join Natram for a 12-mile stroll on the Berkshire Downs near Goring-on-Thames. Please note change of date for this walk. Links below.
Valerian Sun Club, on the Isle of Wight are holding a Meet & Greet event, with afternoon tea/snack/buffet.
The Big Pub Quiz
The BN online Pub Quiz now runs from 7.30pm on a Friday, if you would like the chance to take over and become the quiz host for the night, please contact gary.kennedy@bn.org.uk.
 
Amanda
 
Event listings
 
Beacon Tarn Skinny Dip
Sat 04 Jun 2022 10:00
Hillside Platinum Jubilee Open Social
Sat 04 June 2022, 11:00 - Sun 05 June 2022, 18:00
Thames Sailing Barge Cruise
Sat 04 Jun 2022, 15:00 - 17:00
Goltho Gardens Clothes Optional Morning
Sun 05 Jun 2022, 10:00-12:00
Natram walk Dean's Bottom
Wed 08 Jun 2022, 11:30-18:30
Steeple Claydon - Naturist Walk
Fri 10 Jun 2022, 12:30
Valerian Sun Club Meet & Greet
Sun 12 Jun 2022, 11:00-16:00
Natram Walk Dean's Bottom
Wed 08 Jun 2022, 11:30-18:30
Steeple Claydon - Naturist Walk
Fri 10 Jun 2022, 12:30
Natram Walk Ackling Dyke
Tue 14 Jun 2022, 11:30-18:30
GBSD at Shap Lido
Tue 14 Jun 2022, 17:00-19:00
Naturist Evening Visit to Houghton Lodge Gardens
Wed 15 Jun 2022, 17:30-20:30
Naturist Visit to the Dorothy Clive Gardens
Wed 15 Jun 2022, 18:00-20:30
Natram walk Dunbridge
Thu 16 Jun 2022, 11:30-18:30
Naturist Walk in Rural Hampshire
Thu 16 Jun 2022, 11:30-18:00
Dinner and Skittles in Rural Hampshire
Thu 16 Jun 2022, 18:30-22:30
GBSD Six Hills Open Water Swim
Thu 16 Jun 2022, 18:30      19:30
Burrows Gardens Visit
Sat 18 Jun 2022, 12:00- 16:30
Fullers Mill Garden
Sat 18 Jun 2022, 17:30-20:00
South West Bude Skinny Dip 2022
Sun 19 Jun 2022, 07:30-13:00
 
Swim meets
 
Club Naturel
Fri 03 Jun 2022, 14:00-16:00
Watford Naturist Swimming Club
Fri 03 Jun 2022, 20:45-22:00
Spectrum Swim
Sat 04 Jun 2022, 18:00-21:00
South Forest swim, Edwinstowe
Sat 04 Jun 2022, 18:00-20:30
Wirralnats Chester Swim
Sat 04 Jun 2022, 18:15-20:00
Nothing on on a Saturday night (Lancashire)
Sat 04 Jun 2022, 19:00-21:00
Noah's Ark Naturist Swim
Sun 05 Jun 2022, 16:00-18:00
Forth Naturist Swim at Haddington
Sun 05 Jun 2022, 16:30-19:00
The Sunday Swim, Glasgow
Sun 05 Jun 2022, 18:30-21:15
Plymouth Sun Club
Mon 06 Jun 2022, 20:30-21:30
Manchester Male Naturist Swim
Thurs 09 Jun 2022 19:00-20:30
Watford Naturist Swimming Club
Fri 10 Jun 2022 20:45-22:00
Club Naturel - Swim
Fri 10 Jun 2022, 20:00-22:00
Wigton Swim
Sat 11 Jun 2022, 13:00-15:00
WirralNats Chester Swim
Sat 18:15-20:15
Newcastle Elswick Pool
Sat 11 Jun 2022, 17:50-19:10
Cahir Swim - Co. Tipperary
Sat 11 Jun 2022, 20:00-21:30
The Potteries Swim
Sun 12 Jun 2022, 19:30-20:30
Ryedale Naturist Club - Swim
Sun 12 Jun 2022, 15:00-17:00
Severn Vale Swimming Club
Sun 12 Jun 2022 17:00-19:00
Ballinasloe Swim
Sun 12 Jun 2022, 17:00-18:30
Severn Vale Swimming Club
Sun 12 Jun 2022, 17:00-19:00
Northampton Sun Group
Sun 12 Jun 2022, 17:30-20:00
 
 
All the info:
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
 
 
 

Don't forget the Great British Skinny Dip!

It’s June and my heating is still on. Disappointing, to say the least. Nevertheless, that’s no reason not to shed our clothes and fling ourselves into a pool, lake, sea, lido or some other body of water for the Great British Skinny Dip! 
Remember, it’s not just about the joys of nude swimming and the chance to introduce hordes of friends, family members and colleagues to Naturism.
We also need you to find suitable venues for dips and to host events. Whether you’ve got a venue in mind or need to find one, we have all the information you need.
And, just as importantly, we want to keep fundraising for the British Heart Foundation, a charity that aims to keep us all heart-healthy. Here’s our new Just Giving page.
Check out these fabulous skinny dips over the next few weeks:
4 June:  Beacon Tarn Naked Walk & Skinny Dip, Cumbria
4 June, 11 June, 18 June: Spectrum Swim, Birmingham
11 June: Wigton, Cumbria
11 June: Nude Swims Newcastle, Newcastle Upon Tyne 
12 June: Northampton Sun Group, Northamptonshire
14 June: Shap Lido, Cumbria 
16 June: Race Hub, Leicestershire
19 June: South West Skinny Dip, Cornwall
 

BN232 - Summer 2022

The Summer issue of our members' magazine is now out!
It’s full of news, information, listings and fully illustrated features and articles.
Contents include:
All the events you can look forward to
Putting the Record Straight - British Naturism in the media
Women in Naturism – Celebrating International Women’s Day – and two inspiring stories!
Naturism and Mental Health – Part Four: Shame
Caron’s story – how Naturism and the British Heart Foundation helped her fight a serious heart condition
Volunteer Connect! – Helping British Naturism thrive – and meeting our new volunteers
Strengthening British Naturism’s Regions
A look back at some smashing recent events
In travel, we bring you loads of tempting holidays to consider
 
BN232 will soon be landing on the doormats of members of British Naturism who can also download a digital version. There's even a topic open on the forum to discuss the magazine with other members. (Log in required for both)
Our quarterly magazine is just one of the many benefits a BN membership provides. If you’re not a member yet, why not make today the day you join us?
 

The Forum Live - Meet the Volunteers!

Next Monday (6th June), I will have the pleasure of welcoming a panel of new BN volunteers to the Forum Live. As you will have already seen from this morning's other news story, it's Volunteers' Week, and so such a session is well-timed (on purpose, actually, as I am sure you guessed...)
I'll be asking our panellists to talk about their roles and the work they are doing, why they volunteered, what they hope to achieve, and how the organisation and members can support them. 
We'll also raise the profile of volunteering within BN generally, talking about current opportunities and the benefits that accrue to both the organisation and to individuals through volunteering. We hope to capture the spirit of Volunteers Week and get more people to think about volunteering with BN.
Oh, and as mentioned in the Volunteers' Week story - bring wine and cake (or whatever you like) to celebrate our volunteers!
Join the session on the night via the online events tab in the BN shop

Volunteers Week 2022 – A time to say thanks!

Volunteers’ Week takes place from the 1 – 7 June every year.  It's an opportunity to recognise, thank and celebrate the contribution volunteers make across the UK.
Volunteers’ Week 2022 is a time to say thanks.  During an exceptionally difficult couple of years, people from all walks of life around the UK have taken the time to volunteer and make a huge difference to their communities – just as they do every year.  This is a time for us to come together and thank all volunteers for their invaluable contribution.
This year, Volunteers’ Week is taking place during the #MonthOfCommunity, which is about creating a focal point in the year to encourage us all to think about and join in with a wide variety of activity happening in our communities.  It’s a time to connect with others, give back, say thank you and shine a light on the amazing communities we live in, our community spirit will become stronger and we will all feel the benefits.
As it’s Volunteers’ Week I very much wanted to take this opportunity to say a BIG thank you to everyone within British Naturism whose volunteered during the last year; giving their time, skills, knowledge and energy to helping others, their communities or the environment.
Given the important contribution volunteers make to the success of British Naturism, I’d like to give a special thank you to everyone who has volunteered within BN, whether its
enabling the organisation to function and deliver its services; developing, enabling and supporting opportunities for people to practise a naturist lifestyle; promoting understanding and acceptance of the practice and benefits of naturism; or simply “helping out” at a BN event, a local naturist club or British Naturism: Sunfolk. We want to recognise all of those who have continued delivering vital work as volunteers over the past 12 months but also all those who usually volunteer but have not been able to because of the pandemic.  Volunteers are always active in the heart of every community.  They are behind many of the services we all rely on.  Their crucial contribution has not stopped, despite the uncertain times we find ourselves in, and will continue as an important part of the nation’s recovery.
The contribution of volunteers is often unseen and unrecognised by many, visible only through the incredible impact of their volunteering.  However, the coronavirus pandemic, events in Ukraine and the valuable role foodbanks play during times of hardship and poverty have rightly raised the profile of volunteering.  More people than ever are aware of the immense contribution being made every single day by Britain’s volunteers.  That is why it’s time to say: thank you volunteers!
So please join me with a glass of wine (or something else) and a large slice of cake to say a BIG “Thank you” to all our volunteers for the amazing things they do within British Naturism!
John Gelder
BN Volunteering Officer
john.gelder@bn.org.uk
bn.org.uk/about-volunteering/

Events this weekend - and beyond!

Nudestock welcomes all naturists this week for a full week of naked caping, stay the week, few days or just book a day pass. This lovely farm in Doncaster transforms into a naked family friendly camping week, which is in the heart of the Yorkshire and East Midlands region. To me it signals the start of the summer and is the warmup event for Nudefest in July. The chance to dust off our tents and camping gear after the winter, and meet up with friends, in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside. A laid-back week of fun and catching up with friends. With lots of activities planned in the Green Shed.
Nothing on Events brings us another first in the LASER region in Worthing. Art with Nothing On, though an art apron is recommended. Chloe from Splat N chat will teach us step by step how to paint our own prechosen canvas. Have a look on Facebook for Splat N Chat, for examples, I personally really want to try to paint the giraffe! There are some incredibly talented naked artists in BN, I am not one of those people! I have used this group session a few years ago to create a watercolour landscape scene. I could not believe the beautiful image I created, by following the instructor! I cannot wait to try again. If art is not really your thing, you are invited to attend the bar to socialise, during the class time, this part is free to attend, though pre-registration is a must! After 9.30 I am told there will be a chance to sample the vast array of cocktails and throw some shapes! I translated this to well stocked bar and naked disco until 11pm last orders.
In more firsts of the year, the LASER region will set sail from Bournemouth pier on the Nude Cruise. The bar will be open during the cruise, and a buffet will be included in your ticket price. Cast off will be 18.00 sharp so do not be late! Tickets are still available. Keep an eye out for more boat trips throughout the country on the BN calendar. If you are joining the cruise or just in the area, there is a Meet & Greet Beach Day at Studland Beach from 10.45 to 4pm. Bring a picnic, bring along beach games. Have a relaxing day on this fantastic beach. Look out for the BN flag on the Knoll beach side of the central path/fire break 6 from Ferry Road. Café & toilet facilities can be found at Knoll and Shell beach car parks. 
From the South West to the Eastern region, where they present the Ultimate Jubilee Weekend Naked Water Event! Travel on an original Thames sailing barge leaving from Maldon in Essex. Boarding from 1pm, for departure at 3pm. The 2 hour cruise includes a buffet.
The Eastern region will also host their first Lido swim of the season in Peterborough, this was a huge success last year at the beautiful 1930’s Lido. The Eastern region have booked in 4 swims this summer, as part of the Great British Skinny Dip. A wonderful evening out that I am impatient to repeat! Large carpark or 15 minutes’ walk from the railway station (0.7 miles). 
North West regional Pétanque competition is this Sunday, you can choose to play or spectate, a fabulous day is in store with a village fete atmosphere. Entrance is free of charge and is open to all BN members. Hot Dogs, various snacks, plus hot and cold drinks will be on sale throughout the day. If previous years are to go by, there will be a lot of delicious homemade cake too! No need to book as this is a 'just turn up' event. Feel free to use the facilities which include a solar heated pool, hot tub, and sauna. If you intend to play, please register in advance. email to: northwestrep@bn.org.uk. I am a little bias, this is one of my favourite days in the North West, the reason I joined BN! You do not need to be an expert, you just have to try.
There are a wide selection of walks this week! Natram Host the walks in Harriersham Downs and Charlbury in Oxfordshire. Sarah T Leads the Out Cheek2Cheek walk in Leafield, Oxon. Sarah has a detailed plan of the day on the events page. Tony B will be leading a walk near Newbury, on the boarders of Berkshire and Hampshire. The North West region and David B are hosting a walk and skinny dip around Beacon Tarn, which is now established annual part of the calendar.
A final chance to visit Goltho Gardens, near Lincoln for a clothes optional morning. The car park is open to the main road, so you are asked to be dressed in this area. Bed and breakfast on site is available - contact booking@golthogardens.com directly as this date will not be available on the b&b booking system. You are asked to be dressed or leave the gardens by 12:00. Coffee shop will be open at 12:00 when the garden opens to the public. There will be an optional visit to nearby Goltho Woods in the afternoon. Sadly, this will be the last ever visit to Goltho Gardens as the gardens will close permanently in September.
 

Barge, Steam Train, Castle – which adventure will you choose?

Why not spend Saturday 4 June on an original Thames sailing barge? This is the ultimate Jubilee Weekend event! You’ll enjoy a relaxing, clothes-free buffet lunch followed by a 2-hour naked sail from Maldon in Essex, complete with a well-stocked bar. The £55 price includes lunch; drinks are extra. This event is BN member-only due to demand.
More here: June 4 - Jubilee Weekend - Thames Sailing Barge – British Naturism (bn.org.uk).
For those of you who’ll be in the Kent area the first weekend in July, here are two very different – but equally classy! – events. On Saturday 2 July, why not dine á la nude aboard a Kent and East Sussex Railway steam train running from Tenterden Town Station to Bodiam and back? You’ll depart at 7 pm for a round trip of one hour and 50 minutes. Food and drink are available.
Read more about it here: July 2 - Naturist Dining aboard a KESR Steam Train – British Naturism (bn.org.uk).
Or – for you walkers, there’s a Sunday 3 July visit to the National Trust’s Scotney Castle, a 14th-Century moated castle and walled garden 21 miles south of the M25. Choose between a Garden Visit or a Garden Visit with a freshly prepared hamper basket. The event is open to BN members, other Naturists and non-Naturist partners.
Check it out here: July 3 - National Trust Scotney Castle Garden – British Naturism (bn.org.uk)
 

Women in Focus

One issue of great importance to British Naturism – and Naturism more broadly – is how to attract more women. We’re all aware of the need to tackle thorny issues such as body positivity and the fear of being judged, that can dissuade women from joining - and enjoying - a clothes-free lifestyle.
To get women talking about all this, Co-ordinator Helen Berriman has launched “Women in Focus.” This series of in-depth interviews delves into questions such as how women decide to get involved in Naturism, what challenges they face – and what advice they would give other women interested in dipping a toe in.
Check out these inspiring stories here!

Forum Live - Dynamic Dunescapes

In next Monday's (30th May) The Forum Live session, we'll revisit the nationwide Dynamic Dunescape project, and hear once again from Julia Galbenu , from the National Trust who is the Engagement Officer for the Dynamic Dunescapes Project at Studland Bay.  She’ll bring us up to date with a presentation on how things are going and future plans.
We also hope to bring in British Naturism volunteers who are working with the Dynamic Dunescapes team and learn more about how YOU can get involved. Events for this summer are being planned.  25th June is World Sand Dune Day and fingers crossed we’ll have Emma from Natural England come and talk to us about it. As the name implies, it’s an initiative that extends beyond Studland Bay - and conveniently we have a beach day in Wales, at Morfa Dyffyrn on the very day...
Studland Bay is arguably, Britain's best Naturist beach. The bay in Dorset, along with other non-Naturist sections, is owned by the National Trust. Nude bathing has a long history there. British Naturism is even represented on the official, National Trust operated, beach users group.
dynamicdunescapes.co.uk
Join the session via the BN shop
***Stop Press***
We'll also be joined tonight by Natalie Coffey, from Natural England, who is also the Dynamic Dunescapes People Engagement Officer for Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Lancashire Area Team. Natalie says:
I love getting out in nature, whether it’s with my two dogs or by myself. Sand dunes are one of my favourite environments to spend time in, either by having picnics on the dunes at Formby or taking the dogs for a walk on the Lytham Sand Dunes. There is so much life hiding in the dunes, I can’t wait to show you it! Maybe we’ll even see the elusive sand lizard. I’m also excited to hear all about your #dunememories and to help you create new dune memories!

Events this weekend - and beyond!

Nudestock welcomes all naturists next weekend for a full week of naked camping, stay the week, few days or just book a day pass. This lovely farm in Doncaster transforms into a naked family-friendly camping week, in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside. To me it signals the start of the summer and is the warmup event for Nudefest in July. The chance to dust off our tents and camping gear after the winter, and meet up with friends. 

BN’s Eastern region will also host their first Lido swim of the season at Peterborough’s beautiful 1930’s Lido - pictured. It was a huge success last year and was a wonderful evening out that I am impatient to repeat!

In more firsts of the year, we will set sail from Bournemouth pier on a Nude Cruise. The bar will be open during the cruise, and a buffet is included in your ticket price. Cast off will be 19.30 sharp so do not be late! Tickets are still available.  This information seems to be incorrect. See Andy's comment below

Over the Jubilee weekend - as kindly advertised for us by the Daily Star on their front page - celebrate the event in style on an original Thames Sailing Barge with buffet lunch.

Don’t forget the super range of online events offered by BN, from chat sessions to meditation and quizzes to yoga, you’ll be glad you joined in. They are all happening at your place - and the dress code is very relaxed…

And if nude swimming is your thing (and we know it is) you can swim in a variety of locations week in and week out. Find out what’s happening near you at bn.org.uk/swim_events and greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/events-calendar

This weekend
An 8–9-mile Naturist walk starting from Cottered, Hertfordshire
Sat 21 May, 12:30 - 17:00

Next week
Yoga in Bristol with Stripped Back Yoga
Tue 24 May, 20:00 - 21:00
Naked Walk in Shropshire
A circular route of about 8 miles
Wed 25 May, 11:00 - 17:00
An 11 mile Naturist walk around Ashdown Forest near East Grinstead, with Natram
Wed 25 May 2022, 11:45-18:30
Swim at the Blue Lagoon with East Sussex Naturists
Thu 26 May 2022, 19:00 - 20:00

Next weekend
Nudestock - Yorkshire’s camping festival
Sat 28 May - Sun 5 June 2022
Open Day at Avonvale Sun Club, Dorset
Sat 28 May
Please book in advance
Stark Trekkers Walk, Kent 
Sat 28 May, 11:30 - 16:00
Peterborough Lido Great British Skinny Dip
Sat 28 May, 19:30 - 22:00
Art with Nothing On at Lucifers Cafe Bar, Worthing
Sat 28 May, 19:00 -23:00
A fun and exciting opportunity to let your creative side out and take part in a naked art lesson - with an apron on…
Naked Yoga in Belfast 
Sat 28 May, 16:20 - 17:45
North West Pétanque Day at Lancashire Sun
Sun 29 May, 09:00 -18:00
Come and join us for a terrific sports day at this fantastic venue - and stick around for the regional open meeting the following day
Nude Cruise from Bournemouth Pier 
Sun 29 May, 17:45 - 20:45
An evening cruise along the Dorset coast.

Thames Sailing Barge
Sat 4 June, 13:00 - 15:00
The Ultimate Jubilee weekend celebration!

Announcing the first Naked Heart Walks for 2022!

Among the benefits of British Naturism’s closer relationship with the British Heart Foundation – and there are many! - is a bigger focus on Naked Heart Walks. After a stunning start in 2021, our new events offer the perfect excuse to get moving, meet fellow nude walkers, see some beautiful, fascinating places - and encourage newcomers to join in and raise money for this important charity.
We’ve got three fabulous offerings for you, in Cheshire, Essex and Kent, with, we hope, more to come. 
First up, on 20 July from 2:00pm – 8:00pm, is a 2km stroll through the gorgeous gardens of Adlington Hall (pictured), a country house near Macclesfield, Cheshire. There’s even a maze to explore! Tickets are £15. Our target is to raise a minimum of £100 per person for the British Heart Foundation.
The total number of participants is limited to 100. There will be two walks – at 3:00pm and 6:00pm – with no more than 50 walkers each. The circular path takes you through the extensive grounds and then up the lawn toward (but not inside) the Hall.
A word from the organisers: Please don’t disrobe in the car park; go to the gazebo. It’s best to approach Adlington Hall from the Wilmslow side – ignore the road closure sign!
Or how about exploring the Secret Nuclear Bunker, near Brentwood, Essex? This ticketed event (£15 for the walk and bunker tour; £25 for walk, bunker tour and evening meal) begins at 5:00pm on Thursday, 18August, and participants are encouraged to obtain £100 in sponsorship in aid of the BHF. You can bring a clothes-optional friend or family member, too.
The walk is a maximum of two miles (with an optional shortcut) over secluded, undulating fields. These are private agricultural grounds with no smooth footpaths. Wear sturdy walking boots and bring water!
In case of heavy rain, there will be an extended tour of the bunker and special presentation. Pre-booked dinners will run from 8:00pm in the restaurant and canteen area; in the canteen you’ll find wine, beer and other drinks, cash only. Be warned: Everyone must clear out by 9:30 – when the bomb doors close and the lights go out!
Finally… you might want to head to Hole Park in Kent for a Saturday 27 August walk from 2:00pm - 6:00pm. The family has maintained the award-winning gardens (one of the seven wonders of the Weald!) since the 1920s within the original plans; the grounds are set in a magical, 200-acre park with fabulous views over the local countryside.
Enjoy a 3km sponsored walk starting from the registration area at the Vineyard and taking in the 16-acre garden and woodland trail. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a full afternoon tea—included in the ticket price—by the tennis court and celebrate our achievements together, with the traditional BHF medal ceremony.
All the details, including booking are to be found at shop.bn.org.uk/pages/bhf. Check out our discussion forum and join in the chat (login required).

The Forum Live - interviewing Jon Williams

Next Monday’s Forum Live features an opportunity to get to know Jon Williams, one of the Directors of British Naturism.  Jon has been vice-Chair of British Naturism for some two and a half years, during which time the Executive Committee has benefited from his skill in chairing its regular meetings. The wider membership will have seen him chairing the AGM too.  More recently he has masterminded the development of plans to develop British Naturism: Sunfolk and bring it up to the standard we are all hoping for as a premium Naturist venue.
 
Jon is an active member of the Naturist Ramblers, and arranges regional events for BN members in London and the South East, and Naturist walking weekends in Scotland.
 
Alongside all these activities Jon somehow manages to hold down a full-time job in the headquarters of a major retailer.  He also sings in one of the big BBC choirs and is currently in rehearsal for performances at this summer’s Proms.
Edwin Kilby will be in the chair and you can join the session via the BN shop

Good Times at British Naturism!

Has there ever been a better time to join British Naturism?
Take a look at all the amazing things we're doing - goodtimes.bn.org.uk
Let's celebrate Good Times...and pass it on to people you know...they won't want to miss out!
The more members we have the more we can do and the more credibly we are perceived by a world that is slowly beginning to understand that we are normal people, doing something that hugely enhances your life - whatever Queen Victoria might have had to say about it!
Health and well-being is on all the agendas these days and Naturists know that shedding your clothes and becoming part of the community ticks pretty much all those boxes in one go.
 

BN Pétanque Nationals 2022 - A Smashing Success!

British Naturism’s Pétanque tournament on 29 April to 2 May drew 21 teams and was a resounding success, Sports Director Ian Munt reports!
The tournament is a seven-game, all-inclusive snake with the best two teams progressing to the final. There were five games on the Saturday and two on Sunday, followed by the final. This year it was organised by Barrie and Glynn Widdowson and hosted by Blackthorns Sun Club.
Play began under a beautiful sunny sky.  Competition was sometimes fraught - with a touch of cussing as the pressure mounted! - because this was serious, and, for some, winning the national title was the only result they wanted.  By the time the last two teams finished their fifth game on Saturday, everyone else had returned to the lawn for G&Ts before getting ready for the Gala Dinner.
The final day’s play began on a cold Sunday morning. Some of the competitors looked like they had danced the night away, while others were ready for combat! Despite some brief rain, spirits remained high. Barrie and Glynn had a bye for their second game, giving them time to start totting up the score cards early. They even enlisted me to tot some scores up - no pressure there with them both being retired math teachers!
With the games complete and the score sheets totted up, two teams stood out at the top for the final. Jane and Lee and Marion and Phil would slug it out, with only 13 more points needed to get their hands on the coveted Shield and National Trophy. It was a close game. Marion and Phil played without fault, while Jane and Lee fought a gallant battle!
Then it was off to the trophy ceremony. Trophies were handed out, including three bare bum trophies for those teams who scored a ‘fanny’ - losing 13 to 0. After thank-yous all round, participants were given application forms for the internationals in Hanover, Germany, and the trophy was put on display for all to see whether we can bring it home again!
If you missed this event and fancy a game, check out the landed clubs. Many are open to day visitors and have great facilities, so check the website for clubs in your area. Sunfolk also has a piste.
Think about giving the Nationals a go next year! These events can only take place if there are volunteers to help, and they are a great way to meet people and have a good time. You don’t need experience - just enthusiasm for the sport. If you’re interested, register on the Volunteers platform or contact Ian at sports@bn.org.uk
A big cheer to the winners:
Winners: Marion & Phil
Runners up: Jane & Lee
Third Place: Elaine & Steve
Fourth Place: Carol & Carl

The Forum Live - Growing our Membership

Join me next Monday, 16 May as I present an overview of the process, the marketing techniques, the resources, the trends, and more relating to our continuous drive to bring more Naturists into British Naturism membership - and the services and initiatives we provide to keep everyone renewing for years to come!
Over the last couple of years our numbers have been increasing at a quicker rate but it is important to keep growing for a variety of reasons. Importantly, you'll also learn how you can play a part in ensuring a bright future for the UK's foremost organisation for Naturists.
Join the session via the online events section of the BN shop

Swimming Gala - a Roaring Success!

Swimmers and supporters piled into a competition swimming pool in Watford on the evening of 7 May for the highly anticipated British Naturism National Swimming Gala, and what an event it was!  There were 76 competitors, from young children to seniors. Many have swum competitively but a show of hands suggested that more hadn’t.
A glitch with the pool’s timing equipment meant that the judges monitoring each swim lane had to keep the timing. Here’s Mark Bass:
“The volunteer timekeepers and stewards were fantastic, and [Mark] Walsh's coordination of activities even more so. Because of the number of contests, the gala is a logistical nightmare so could very easily go wrong. The fact that there was not a single blip shows just how good the volunteer team was.”
The crowd was enthusiastic, friendly and encouraging. In fact, there was more clapping for the slower swimmers than for the speedy ones!  This was new British Naturism Sports Officer Ian Munt’s first outing and his “seamless integration with other parts of the Events team is a sign of how well sports could fit into the existing program under his leadership,” says Mark.
I took the opportunity to quiz a couple of the swimmers. This was Alex’s first-ever encounter with British Naturism. Asked why he decided to compete, he said he realised he was afraid of the event – and didn’t want to be. That same fear drew him to British Naturism, and he’s keen to try other events in what he called “a respectful experiment.”  And a winning one this time—he came away with two silver medals!
Next up was Leann Sykes-Hooban who, with husband Matt, is a veteran of British Naturism and international naturist swim galas. We noted the number of women poolside, and I asked for her thoughts on how to get more women into naturism. It’s about being open with people about the clothes-free life, she said. After returning from one of the international meets, she mentioned to colleagues that she’d won a swimming title at a naturist competition. Several minutes later, they started asking questions. “Talking to people about it is the first thing,” she told me. Most are interested – not horrified – and British Naturism’s Just One Person campaign is an effective way to spread the word.
Congratulations to everyone who took part in the gala! And a special well-done to my partner, Dave, who swam his way to two gold medals!

It’s World Naked Gardening Day on Saturday 7th May!

Every year on the first Saturday in May, gardeners around the world are encouraged to shed their clothes and tend their gardens naked, just as nature intended. It’s for anyone who wants to experience a stronger bond with nature wherever you are.
It is a great opportunity to show your neighbours just how liberating and life-affirming spending time in the fresh air can be.
It isn’t an official British Naturism initiative but we are always happy to support projects that encourage people to discover how wonderful it is to be naked in the great outdoors!
If you participate, send in your photos...
 

Last chance for The Gathering...

Snap up the last few remaining rooms for  Scotland's biggest Naturist weekend, The Gathering - 13th to 16th May, at Waverley Castle, Melrose. 

We are looking forward to meeting members old and new. There is a full weekend of entertainment and the return of our world-famous Burns in the Buff supper on the Saturday night and the fabulous Reely Jiggered Ceilidh band. There will be plenty of activities - and remember to bring your towel for the swimming pool and enjoying the sun in the rear garden.

Haste ye back!

The Forum Live Debate - You are Not Alone

As we move into the summer season there are many opportunities to attend events and activities and practise Naturism with the wider community.
However, we know that such a thing is a daunting prospect for many and that going to a first event on your own can be intimidating.  In The Forum Live Debate this month we will discuss this problem and examine both sides of the coin.  First, we will consider what tips we might give to solo members on how to quickly integrate into the event so they are not alone for long.  Second, we will discuss what we can do as a wider community to make solo first-timers welcome so people have an easy and fun first experience.  Those of us who have been around for a while know what a welcoming community there is within British Naturism and 2022 could be the year that we see a lot of new faces crossing the threshold.
 
We look forward to seeing you all on Monday 9th May - access the session via this link (log in required)

Volunteer Expo Live - BN at the NEC

Come and see British Naturism at the NEC!
Volunteer Expo Live
6th and 7th May 2022
 
Volunteer Expo Live is the UK's national volunteering show to celebrate the power of volunteering and community!
The last two years have shown us how important togetherness, community and supporting each other has been.  And that’s exactly what British Naturism is about, so we’re taking the opportunity to attend Volunteer Expo at the NEC, Birmingham on the 6th and 7th May 2022.
Volunteer Expo will enable British Naturism to build brand awareness by sharing our story about volunteering, communicate our values and promote clothes free living.
The exhibition will also give us the chance to network and build connections with other charities and organisations; and demonstrate that British Naturism is an integral part of the national voluntary sector, working alongside other volunteer-involving organisations.
Volunteer Expo Live takes place at the NEC, Birmingham on Friday 6th and Saturday 7th May 2022 from 10.00am – 4.00pm, and tickets are completely free!  You can book your tickets here: https://expoware.io/volunteer-expo-live-2022
If you are among the ticket holders attending, come and say hello!  We're on stand D44.
 
 
 

Nude Ahoy! Join us for a Naturist boat trip

Join BN for an evening cruise along the Dorset coast on Sunday, 29 May.
We'll cast off from Bournemouth Pier on the Dorset Belle at 6pm, and have approximately three hours on board to make the most of a great summer evening.
 The bar will be open for us on board throughout the evening and there will be a buffet included in the ticket cost.
Find all the details and book your ticket!

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