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News and articles about BN and the wonderful world of Naturism
This Friday, the 12th September, a new documentary on Naturism will be released on the European culture channel ARTE.tv.
This summer we worked with a German production company exploring one of the biggest challenges facing Naturism today – how to engage young adults. While national surveys in both the UK and France show that attitudes towards social nudity are broadly positive, Naturist federations are struggling to attract younger members. Without them, the organisations that protect our freedoms are at risk.
The production team collaborated with Jeannette Langner, chair of Get Naked Germany, to set out the problems faced by organised Naturism across mainland Europe, before travelling to the UK to explore the other side of the story – the young Naturists themselves.
Leading those conversations is Saoirse Newhouse, a university student who discovered Naturism only recently. This summer she has been creating content for TheNakedTruth campaign and attending most of our events. The crew followed Saoirse to capture her experiences and, crucially, her perspective as part of Generation Z.
We have not yet seen the final cut, but we are confident this documentary will ask tough questions and shine a light on the challenges Naturism faces in a changing world. Just as importantly, it will highlight the insights of the generation who must carry the movement forward. Naturism has so much to offer young people – the challenge lies in presenting those opportunities in ways that truly resonate with them.
That’s why we were so keen to support a documentary that tackles these issues head-on. Only by being honest can we move forward.

Our changes to the British Naturism website calendar make it easier than ever to find events that are coming up! In this weekly update we bring you all the links you need to find events, plus news of new events and reminders you about those you might like to go to. If you are an event host and your event needs a boost, then please let us know and we will try to include it. And if you go to an event and have a blast (well, you will), please consider writing about it for this website, BN magazine, as a blog on the Members’ Forum - or all three!

Highlights
There’s a big GBSD weekend this weekend in Northern Ireland with a camping event preceding the dip at Portstewart.
Tomorrow - College Lake Naked Heart Walk in Hertfordshire and a Great British Skinny Dip at Arundel Lido, West Sussex
Looking forward to next weekend, there’s a special event, a holistic weekend, at British Naturism Sunfolk.
As usual, you’ll find plenty of nude swims to go to plus socials, walks, sports events and online events, this weekend and through next week - https://www.bn.org.uk/events/

***Stop Press***
Tickets for Nudefest 2026 are on sale! Visit nudefest.co.uk to secure your place now. The website will be fully updated soon but we can tell you about some of the entertainment already:
Tuesday - Dr Fraggle Band
Wednesday - Comedy Night & Boomin
Thursday - Dr & The Medics
Friday - Dance Anthems with Paul Chuckle (DJ Set)
Saturday - Black Lace & Village People

All the links you need
Follow this link to find about other ‘special’ events that might need a bit of planning ahead.
Want to know what’s happening near you? Add your postcode, set the distance and reveal all the events within that radius.

Don’t forget that there are some events which require no travel - British Naturism’s online events - there are 15 every week! Get fit, chill out and/or chat with other members.
You can use the ‘search’ option at the top of the page and find anything you want  in events - in fact, the whole website - using a keyword. This is particularly useful for finding repeating events too - for example if you spot a swim you’d like to attend but can’t make the next date, use the keyword search to find the dates for the whole series!

You can also home in on the kind of event you want to find out about! You’ll find calendars dedicated to:
Major British Naturism events - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/major/
Special Events - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/special/
The Great British Skinny Dip - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/gbsd/
Naked Heart Walks - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/nhw/
Swims - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/swim/
Sports - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/sport/
Fitness - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/fitness/
Walks - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/walk/
Holidays - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/holiday/
Online - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/online/
 
Please note: only those events organised through BN are covered by BN’s insurance.  Participants in other events should make their own enquiries regarding appropriate insurance cover for that event.
 
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash
Join host Helen Berriman, BN's Women's Officer, for a new episode of the podcast from British Naturism, dedicated to celebrating and empowering women in the Naturist community. Our podcast is created by women for women, although we warmly invite men to join us and listen as well.
In each episode, we delve into insightful conversations, exploring various aspects of Naturism through the lens of womens' experiences. Whether you are a seasoned Naturist, new to the way of life or just intrigued, we aim to educate and inspire. We highlight the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of women in Naturism. Promoting body acceptance and self love, we explore how women across the planet have shed their clothes and freed up their minds, leading them toward a more fulfilling life in all areas; one that no longer keeps them restricted - emotionally, mentally, physically, and in all other ways.
In Episode 22 of Women in Focus we return to the Free the Nipple debate, as Helen catches up with Fiona Discombe. Together they reflect on how society continues to police women’s bodies, why television rules still draw arbitrary lines, and what genuine equality might look like in practice.
The main conversation is closer to home: Helen sits down with her step-daughter Lizzie for an open, good-humoured discussion about growing up with a Naturist father, navigating labels, and the curious mix of body positivity, confidence and fashion that shapes her life. Lizzie’s outlook — relaxed, pragmatic, and often very funny — offers a refreshing counterpoint to the usual noise around body image.
It's reflective without being heavy. It's about ordinary family life, generational differences, and the simple act of growing up comfortable in your own skin.
Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts - launching Saturday 6 September
https://open.spotify.com/show/6HtAQzJKLzJenc3Jjm9W3O
https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/d0d17b7b-51c3-4caa-b890-9c8355289c9f/women-in-focus
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/women-in-focus/id1717263257
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1Y4MelgLcBpA89zbKw7m_UW3xT4_1WZ6
The Autumn issue of our members' magazine is out now!
As always, it’s chock-full of news, information, listings and fully illustrated features and articles.
Contents include:
All the events you can look forward to and a round-up of everything that’s been happening – including a massive bunch of summer events
British Naturism Sunfolk – officially open!
No Clothes, No Worries: A Naturist’s Guide to Remote Rannoch Moor
Reaching the Next Generation: How TheNakedTruth is changing the conversation
A New Chapter for BN Media and Marketing
Why We Love Being Members of Yorkshire Sun Society
How to Swim Wild, by Ella Foote: A book review
Sports Round-up: All the latest on BN’s sports activities, including the National Pétanque Tournament 2025
In travel, we check out Gran Canaria, Menorca, New Zealand, Scandinavia – and much more

BN245 will soon be landing on the doormats of members of British Naturism who can also download a digital version as well as downloading all issues of our celebrated magazine back to 2004! There's also a topic open for you to share your views with other members (log in required).
Not a member and would like a copy? It’s easy to join us now!
Our second Naked Heart Walk of 2025 at the wonderful Leonardslee Gardens in West Sussex takes place the weekend after next on Sunday 14 September.
Around 70 walkers took part in the first clothes-free charity event, back in June, raising a brilliant £1,258 for BN's charity partner the British Heart Foundation.
The gardens themselves were in full bloom, with bursts of colour from late-season rhododendrons, camellias, and the iconic rock garden providing the perfect backdrop. Local sculptures dotted throughout the grounds added a creative flair, plus the added treat of a Dolls' House Exhibition.
The café offers a selection of drinks and snacks, including delicious vegan and dairy-free options.
Find out more and book your place here!

Image: ARB
Wellington Naturist Club (WNC) is based 30 minutes North of Wellington, New Zealand’s Capital City, writes club treasurer Andy. The club is accessible from Wellington by road, rail or bus and sits just off state highway two, one of the main arterial routes heading North from Wellington and the Inter-island ferries, and offers an ideal stop over when heading in either direction.
We celebrate our 75th anniversary in November 2025, and would love to welcome visitors from the UK and join with them in the many activities planned at the club across the month!
The history of the Wellington Naturist Club is, to a large extent, the history of Naturism in New Zealand. The Club’s founder, the late Percy W. Cousins, was also the founder of organised nudism in this country in the 1930s.
In the 1930s, Percy and his family embarked on annual clothes-free vacations, 40 miles from the nearest shop, relying on a rifle and fishing line for meat, with other provisions being transported alongside children and camping gear. The growing popularity of naturism after the war led to the official establishment of the Wellington Sun Club in 1950.
Following two relocations, the club settled at its current site, and subsequently acquired two adjacent properties. Today, it spans nearly five hectares of serene and picturesque landscape.
We offer accommodation options in five high-quality cabins and numerous powered and unpowered camper, caravan or tent sites. Visitors should plan to spend at least a couple of nights as there are many options to enjoy time either at the club or within a few minutes’ walk, cycle or drive from the club.
Guests can relax on one of our many high-quality loungers around the pool or bring their own chairs or rugs onto our extensive lawn areas.  Our outdoor pool is open most of the year, heated to around 25-30 degrees from November to May.  There is also an outdoor Hot tub (39C), Indoor Spa and Sauna. Many sports are available, with members regularly playing Pickleball, Kubb, Three down, and Pétanque.  Other equipment available for visitor and member use includes indoor bowls, pool table, table tennis, darts, croquet & miniten. Social events are held regularly.
Within at most a twenty-five minute drive, holidaymakers will find plenty to keep them occupied, including Te Marua golf course, right across the main State Highway 2 road; Kaitoke Regional Park, with ancient rainforests and the home of Rivendell from The Lord of the Rings; Riemutaka rail trail, dating from 1878, which is now a gently graded 18 km walk, run or mountain bike ride; Pakuratahi Forest; Wellington River rafting, including Wilderness Whitewater Rafting, Exciting Canyoning, Scenic Family Rafting and epic multi activity packages; Craft Breweries in Brewtown, with award-winning craft beer and food to satisfy any appetite; Mount Climie, a popular trail for backpacking, hiking, and walking; Tunnel Gully, a popular recreation area with native trees, such as kahikatea, matai, rimu and tawa; and Staglands Wildlife Reserve, where visitors can feed and freely interact with wildlife.

www.wellingtonnaturists.co.nz
Our changes to the British Naturism website calendar make it easier than ever to find events that are coming up! In this weekly update we bring you all the links you need to find events, plus news of new events and reminders you about those you might like to go to. If you are an event host and your event needs a boost, then please let us know and we will try to include it. And if you go to an event and have a blast (well, you will), please consider writing about it for this website, BN magazine, as a blog on the Members’ Forum - or all three!

Highlights
There are two big events to look out for tomorrow - a second visit to the lovely Burrows Gardens in Derbyshire and the most northerly Great British Skinny Dip (GBSD) at Findhorn beach in Scotland
There’s a big GBSD weekend next weekend in Northern Ireland with a camping event preceding the dip at Portstewart.
Regular swimmers at the Worsley, Manchester event (and there always a lot of you) should also note that tomorrow’s swim has been postponed until the following weekend.
As usual, you’ll find plenty of nude swims to go to plus socials, walks, sports events and online events, this weekend and through next week - https://www.bn.org.uk/events/
In case you think you might have missed it, the BN ezine team are on a summer break this week...


All the links you need
Follow this link to find about other ‘special’ events that might need a bit of planning ahead.
Want to know what’s happening near you? Add your postcode, set the distance and reveal all the events within that radius.

Don’t forget that there are some events which require no travel - British Naturism’s online events - there are 15 every week! Get fit, chill out and/or chat with other members.
You can use the ‘search’ option at the top of the page and find anything you want  in events - in fact, the whole website - using a keyword. This is particularly useful for finding repeating events too - for example if you spot a swim you’d like to attend but can’t make the next date, use the keyword search to find the dates for the whole series!

You can also home in on the kind of event you want to find out about! You’ll find calendars dedicated to:
Major British Naturism events - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/major/
Special Events - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/special/
The Great British Skinny Dip - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/gbsd/
Naked Heart Walks - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/nhw/
Swims - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/swim/
Sports - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/sport/
Fitness - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/fitness/
Walks - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/walk/
Holidays - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/holiday/
Online - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/online/
 
Please note: only those events organised through BN are covered by BN’s insurance.  Participants in other events should make their own enquiries regarding appropriate insurance cover for that event.
 
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash
SW regional events organiser Keith Bowman writes:
Come and join me for our first event at The Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery on the evening of Saturday 13 September; a naked visit to this wonderful place and immerse yourself in the history of Devon and surrounding areas over millions of years of evolution. 
This amazing museum is a little gem hidden away in the narrow streets of Exeter, the county town.  Learn about traditions and practices of other ancient and modern cultures around the world over the ages as you stroll through the world cultures gallery with like-minded other guests.
Click here for more information including how to buy your ticket!
I look forward to seeing you!

Image: Matt Austin
We're delighted to bring news of a new Naked Heart Walk for 2025, raising money for our charity partner British Heart Foundation.
It takes place at College Lake, near Tring in Hertfordshire on Saturday 6 September.
College Lake is one of the Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust's flagship nature reserves and supports more than 1,000 different wildlife species. The venue is ideal for a Naked Heart Walk as it is a circular self-guided walk on a gentle footpath with way markers. There is a shop, ample parking and toilets. Naked Heart Walks are clothing optional to encourage attendance - and so you are welcome to complete the walk by yourself or bring friends. There will be three walks to choose from.
Find out more and book your tickets here!
TheNakedTruth social media campaign has skyrocketed far beyond what we dreamed of at its launch, giving us an incredible new platform to share the benefits of Naturism and reach people in fresh ways.
As of today, TheNakedTruth attracts well over a million hits per month. That’s more visibility than much of our mainstream media engagement, and it’s reaching younger audiences though the channels and in the places where they already spend their time. In fact, 27% of our audience is aged 25–34, and another 27% is 35–44. That means over half a million young adults are engaging with our content every month.
Launched in 2024, TheNakedTruth shares short video soundbites on Instagram, telling real stories about Naturism, giving tips for newcomers, and showing the positive impact it has on people’s lives. While some content comes from our seasoned members, the heart of the campaign is led by younger voices, tackling the issues facing their own generation.
After a year and a half of steady building, the campaign has reached a turning point. Engagement has surged, content has diversified, and the impact is clear: people are hungry for a better, freer way to live.
The big question now is what comes next. We know Naturism can help people improve self-worth, boost mental wellbeing, and find community. With the right opportunities, we have the potential to make a real difference in people’s lives — and that’s worth working for.

Our changes to the British Naturism website calendar make it easier than ever to find events that are coming up! In this weekly update we bring you all the links you need to find events, plus news of new events and reminders you about those you might like to go to. If you are an event host and your event needs a boost, then please let us know and we will try to include it. And if you go to an event and have a blast (well, you will), please consider writing about it for this website, BN magazine, as a blog on the Members’ Forum - or all three!

Highlights
Today! A swim at Petersfield Lido and, as usual, you’ll find plenty of nude swims to go to plus socials, walks, sports events and online events, this weekend and through next week - https://www.bn.org.uk/events/

All the links you need
Follow this link to find about other ‘special’ events that might need a bit of planning ahead.
Want to know what’s happening near you? Add your postcode, set the distance and reveal all the events within that radius.

Don’t forget that there are some events which require no travel - British Naturism’s online events - there are 15 every week! Get fit, chill out and/or chat with other members.
You can use the ‘search’ option at the top of the page and find anything you want  in events - in fact, the whole website - using a keyword. This is particularly useful for finding repeating events too - for example if you spot a swim you’d like to attend but can’t make the next date, use the keyword search to find the dates for the whole series!

You can also home in on the kind of event you want to find out about! You’ll find calendars dedicated to:
Major British Naturism events - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/major/
Special Events - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/special/
The Great British Skinny Dip - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/gbsd/
Naked Heart Walks - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/nhw/
Swims - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/swim/
Sports - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/sport/
Fitness - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/fitness/
Walks - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/walk/
Holidays - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/holiday/
Online - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/online/
 
Please note: only those events organised through BN are covered by BN’s insurance.  Participants in other events should make their own enquiries regarding appropriate insurance cover for that event.
 
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash
The oppressive heat of the day was dying down as my partner Dave and I reached Dorothy Clive Garden for the August 13 Naked Heart Walk. In fact, the weather was perfect for a stroll around this beautiful landscape, with its shaded paths, waterfall and quirky sculptures peeping out from the greenery.
Sixty-one tickets for the event were sold, including seven walk-ins on the night. A great turnout, made even better by the fact that five newbies turned up – two couples and a single person. This is what we BNers like to see! Over £400 was raised for the British Heart Foundation
In fact, Dave and I ran into a young couple who run a sauna by a lake near us. We’d encountered them while walking at the lake recently and – naturally – we’d sounded them out about the possibility of a nudie sauna event there. They were intrigued and promised to look into it, which they’re doing. We also talked up BN and – there they were, at their first Naturist event!
As we ambled along, we noticed wood carvings of owls and other critters, jauntily painted gnomes, a small building where weddings and concerts take place - and the beautiful stag sculpture overlooking a waterfall.
There’s so much more to this fabulous garden than we had time for, mainly because of all the friendly chatting - always a high point of any Naturist outing.
Malcolm Lander, a volunteer at the garden, was our host, and his wife Barb served biscuits and hot drinks. “Malc” told me how pleased he was to see this event at the garden – which sounds like there are more walks there in our future!

Image: David Smith
There are exciting opportunities ahead as the way we promote Naturism evolves. But before we look to the future, it’s worth reflecting on what we’ve already achieved, and what has made that possible.
British Naturism is a volunteer-led organisation of just 9,000 members, yet we enjoy a reach and influence that many national bodies would envy. We appear regularly in the media, our views are sought by authoritative organisations, and we are respected as an example of responsibility and safety. Much of that reputation is thanks to the work of our Marketing Manager, Andrew Welch.
For over 21 years, Andrew has worked with us as a consultant, bringing both deep knowledge of Naturism and exceptional media expertise. He has made an impact across the full range of our marketing activity, especially as regards membership, developing new initiatives, such as the Great British Skinny Dip, hosting The Forum Live, and even running our big events at one time. He has guided our strategy with great success – securing front-page tabloid features, magazine spreads, radio interviews, television appearances, and even full-length documentaries. Without spending vast sums on paid advertising, we’ve achieved coverage most multinational companies would envy.
Andrew has also worked closely with Jen at Studio 27eleven to produce our quarterly magazine – one of our most visible membership benefits – which has become a symbol of quality, regularly earning praise.
Five years ago, when Andrew signed what he said would be his final contract, we knew replacing his skills and knowledge would be a significant challenge. Over the past three years, we have explored what the future should look like in a fast-changing media landscape. Although stepping down from British Naturism became less appealing to Andrew, who even bid to continue at full pace, we pressed ahead with a tender process, dividing the work into distinct areas so multiple specialists could be involved. This approach will help protect our future by avoiding reliance on a single person.
We are delighted to share the outcome: we have appointed The Shibui Project, led by Lauren Bird in Brighton, as our new marketing team. They bring a fresh, young perspective and a strong focus on social media strategies, alongside a real passion for media engagement. Studio 27eleven will continue to manage our magazine layout, ensuring continuity of its high standard. And importantly, Andrew is not leaving us, he will continue to oversee advertising while also pursuing his own projects.
This new structure means we will benefit from a wider range of voices, more creativity, and a reduced risk of disruption if circumstances change.
For now, however, we pause to recognise that this ambitious future is only possible because of the foundations Andrew has built over many years. His contribution has been extraordinary, and he deserves our deepest thanks and applause.
Have you booked your ticket for our annual Naturist Boat Trip on the river Forth?
A regular event in the BN SANER region calendar now, it's a brilliant opportunity to sail naked under the iconic World Heritage Forth Bridge, the Forth Road Bridge and the Queensferry Crossing.  Our boat has a bar and a heated saloon with open deck spaces, so all weather conditions are covered. 
It's also a great way to celebrate the finale of Edinburgh International Festival.
The event takes place this weekend - Sunday 24 August - find out more and book your place now!
Our second visit this summer to the stunning Himalayan Gardens and Sculpture Park for a Naked Heart Walk in partnership with British Heart Foundation was a great success, writes Mark Simmons
The venue is a few miles from Ripon in North Yorkshire and the event run jointly between BN's Yorkshire & East Midlands and North West regions.
I was on duty as a ‘Meeter & Greeter’ along with Ron O’Hare, (North West Regional Organiser) and his wife Elizabeth, handing out British Heart Foundation medals to the participants. The walk attracted 74 visitors from all over the North of England, Scotland & the Midlands, raising over £1000 for the British Heart Foundation.
The weather promised to be warm and fair, but there was a chilly breeze, the gardens are, after all, some 300 metres above sea level, but this did not discourage visitors from casting their clothes aside. Many people brought a picnic and a mobile refreshments van sold hot drinks and cakes down in the more sheltered valley area near the lakes. YBN's Jonathan Ward was the official photographer and Jon Plummer from local media outlet ‘The Stray Ferret’ based in nearby Harrogate, attended. He wanted to interview a few people for the paper, but despite my suggestion, he declined to join in with the true spirit of the event!!
The Gardens are so large that the attendees soon 'disappeared', walking amongst the sculptures and shrubbery along the various paths and trails around the venue!
So, this successful second visit went down well, and this Naked Heart Walk venue is becoming a highlight of the region's Naturist calendar every summer. Here’s to 2026!
Mark Simmons, (North West Regional Administrator)
Our changes to the British Naturism website calendar make it easier than ever to find events that are coming up! In this weekly update we bring you all the links you need to find events, plus news of new events and reminders you about those you might like to go to. If you are an event host and your event needs a boost, then please let us know and we will try to include it. And if you go to an event and have a blast (well, you will), please consider writing about it for this website, BN magazine, as a blog on the Members’ Forum - or all three!

Highlights
Today! Naked Heart Walk at Court Farm Lakes today https://www.bn.org.uk/events/event/8994-court-farm-naked-heart-walk-2025-2nd-visit/

On Sunday - another great chance to enjoy the open air lido at Helmsley

Not too late to book for the BIG BN weekend at Baskerville Hall which starts next week!

Not long either until the annual SANER region Forth boat trip

As usual, you’ll find plenty of nude swims to go to plus socials, walks, sports events and online events, this weekend and through next week - https://www.bn.org.uk/events/


All the links you need
Follow this link to find about other ‘special’ events that might need a bit of planning ahead.
Want to know what’s happening near you? Add your postcode, set the distance and reveal all the events within that radius.
Don’t forget that there are some events which require no travel - British Naturism’s online events - there are 15 every week! Get fit, chill out and/or chat with other members.
You can use the ‘search’ option at the top of the page and find anything you want  in events - in fact, the whole website - using a keyword. This is particularly useful for finding repeating events too - for example if you spot a swim you’d like to attend but can’t make the next date, use the keyword search to find the dates for the whole series!
You can also home in on the kind of event you want to find out about! You’ll find calendars dedicated to:
Major British Naturism events - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/major/
Special Events - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/special/
The Great British Skinny Dip - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/gbsd/
Naked Heart Walks - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/nhw/
Swims - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/swim/
Sports - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/sport/
Fitness - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/fitness/
Walks - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/walk/
Holidays - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/holiday/
Online - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/online/
 
Please note: only those events organised through BN are covered by BN’s insurance.  Participants in other events should make their own enquiries regarding appropriate insurance cover for that event.
 
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash
Most readers will be familiar with Studland beach, whether they are lucky enough to be habitués, occasional visitors or have it on their bucket (and spade) list, given that it is often highlighted as one of the best-known (or often, best), Naturist beaches in the country. Of course that is highly subjective, and obviously I am biased, and very fortunate to have Studland on my doorstep! writes Howard Dymock
Last summer the ‘Future Studland’ survey was commissioned by the National Trust to take a fifty-year view of pressures and challenges presented by climate change, infrastructure and transport issues, and visitor numbers for the whole Studland peninsula. Following engagement events with stakeholders, businesses, local residents and visitors, the survey was completed by over 950 people. The responses will inform the Trust’s plans for Studland, assisting efforts to preserve its natural beauty and nature, while enhancing accessibility for all. The report was finally published by Dorset Coast Forum (DCF) in July, alongside a response from the National Trust.
Elaine Snow from DCF said, "This report represents the end of an insightful and important engagement process at Studland. Over six months of last year, we met with many people who love and enjoy Studland. Not only did they contribute to our data collection, but they emphasised the importance of Studland as a space for generations of visitors and a beautiful, natural coastline. We heard from many groups, including beach hut owners, Naturists, cyclists, walkers, and constructed a special survey for young people.”
Whilst I don’t think there are any surprises in the report, the real discussion about solutions must now take place. Thanks to BN’s work promoting the project within and beyond the organisation, from Forum Live shows to BN Magazine features and beach days, the relatively high (some might say disproportionate!) proportion of responses from Naturists does flag Naturism as a major draw. It is firmly in the top three answers to the question, ‘What do you like about Studland?’ and therefore of considerable economic benefit to the area.
The following quotes, from both the main report and the NT’s response, reflect our input and augur well both for our involvement and for the secure future of Naturism at Studland.
“The Naturist community represented a high number of respondents on the survey, with 44% stating that they spend most of their time at the Naturist Beach. Supporting Naturism was the most mentioned theme in the open ‘any other comments or suggestions’ question. British Naturism actively supported this study by sharing links to this survey with their community. As one of the oldest Naturist sites in the country the needs of this user group will continue to be of importance.”
"Recommendations:
Any long-term plan for Studland should therefore consider Naturists at Studland as a stakeholder group and major users of the beach.
It is noted that Naturism featured strongly in the responses as nearly 1/3 of all responses came from those with an interest in Naturism.”

My own view from forty years of beach use, and in recent years volunteering as a BN Beach Officer and Representative on the Studland Beach Users Action Group, is that there are both challenges and opportunities ahead. For example, the shifting coast and rising sea level, and increasingly severe winter storms, are already affecting existing infrastructure (cafes, car parks and beach huts), whilst the Ferry Company’s proposals (Inspector’s Report still pending) could affect roadside parking and travel patterns. On the plus side, our voice has been heard and recognised as a major user group and might very well support arguments for extending Naturist use. 
So, I commend everyone, whether regular, occasional or wishful visitors, to read the documents in full. And members should rest assured that BN is continuing to represent our interests in this wonderful area!
dorsetcoasthaveyoursay.co.uk/future-studland
Busy? Yeah, me too. Little time to check this website for news from your favourite Naturist organisation? I can see some of you nodding. 
Well, have you signed up for our weekly ezine? It's sent to your inbox every Friday morning and is packed with news, updates, looks forward, events and more, summarising the posts on the BN news pages. 
There are also monthly newsletters to opt for, covering news and updates from your local area, and if you like, you can sign up to them all!
It's free to sign up to - visit this page to do so - where you will also find a link to the archive of past ezines. 
Not a BN member? Really? You can easily fix that - but in the meantime you can also sign up to the national weekly newsletter - visit this page and follow the steps.
The Withington Pool, a stunning Edwardian venue in South Manchester, has become a regular addition to the BN North West Region’s list of skinny-dipping locations. With full use of the modern, super-size (and very hot) Sauna and with a pool heated to 30° complimenting the air temperature that is normally at 32°, this venue has also become extremely popular and well-supported.
Events are scheduled for the third Sunday in the month, which means this Sunday 17 August is one of them! Note that for this time only, we start at 5pm. The event is open to all - not just BN members.
Find out more and book your place!
We hope to see you there!
Our brilliant changes to the British Naturism website calendar make it easier than ever to find events that are coming up! In this weekly update we bring you all the links you need to find events, plus news of new events and reminders you about those you might like to go to. If you are an event host and your event needs a boost, then please let us know and we will try to include it. And if you go to an event and have a blast (well, you will), please consider writing about it for this website, BN magazine, as a blog on the Members’ Forum - or all three!

Highlights
Check out…
Starts today - Ribble Valley club Open weekend
Tomorrow - Naked Heart Walk at the Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park, Yorkshire
Tomorrow - Boules/Pétanque taster day at Valley club, Yorkshire
Next week - Two Naked Heart Walks one of which is midweek for those of you with busy weekends. Dorothy Clive Garden on 13 August and Court Farm Lakes on 15 August
…also a garden visit to Houghton Lodge Gardens, Hants
16 August - Open Day and Great British Skinny Dip at Invicta club, Kent
As usual, you’ll find plenty of nude swims to go to plus socials, walks, sports events and online events, this weekend and through next week - https://www.bn.org.uk/events/

All the links you need
Follow this link to find about other ‘special’ events that might need a bit of planning ahead.
Want to know what’s happening near you? Add your postcode, set the distance and reveal all the events within that radius.
Don’t forget that there are some events which require no travel - British Naturism’s online events - there are 15 every week! Get fit, chill out and/or chat with other members.
You can use the ‘search’ option at the top of the page and find anything you want  in events - in fact, the whole website - using a keyword. This is particularly useful for finding repeating events too - for example if you spot a swim you’d like to attend but can’t make the next date, use the keyword search to find the dates for the whole series!
You can also home in on the kind of event you want to find out about! You’ll find calendars dedicated to:
Major British Naturism events - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/major/
Special Events - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/special/
The Great British Skinny Dip - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/gbsd/
Naked Heart Walks - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/nhw/
Swims - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/swim/
Sports - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/sport/
Walks - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/walk/
Holidays - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/holiday/
Online - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/online/
 
Please note: only those events organised through BN are covered by BN’s insurance.  Participants in other events should make their own enquiries regarding appropriate insurance cover for that event.
 
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash
Last year's event - our first at this venue - was a blast with guests enjoying plenty of activities, beautiful countryside and the delights of the local town of Hay-on-Wye. It's a great venue as it combines hotel rooms, dormitories and camping.
This year will be no different, and the good news is that accommodation - in all types - is still available.
There will be live entertainment from The Tidals, Ministry of Rock and a fab Elton John tribute who went down a storm at Bournemouth a couple of years back. Our programme of daily activities will include crafts and fitness sessions and there will be a shuttle service to Hay-On-Wye plus a canoe trip (clothed, sadly) along the River Wye.
Here's a report from last year's event.
Find details of how to reserve your 2025 place here!
'Will you help me raise funds for The British Heart Foundation? If so then come and join me for a clothing optional Naked Heart Walk around Court Farm Lakes, in Gloucestershire,' says Keith Bowman. 'There’s an option to purchase an evening meal of goulash and there will be alternatives available for those with dietary requirements. The on-site café will be open throughout for you to purchase snacks and drinks.
BN has secured exclusive use of the facilities fora Naked Heart Walk for four hours from 3pm on Friday 15 August. Whilst swimming in the lake is possible, arrangements must be made separately on the day with the venue.
Find out more about this event and buy your tickets.
It is also possible for you to go for a naked swim after this event by visiting The Western Swimming Club in Chepstow, starting at 7.30pm every Friday. This is NOT a BN event but you can find out more including how to book here.
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.org. 
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 edition of Focus has as its headline the news that the INF-FNI has adopted a statement of values and etiquette, based on respect for others, ourselves and the environment. Héctor Martinez, the INF-FNI Communications Officer goes on to describe the organisation’s Global Campaign for Body Positivity which aims to  flood social media with authentic, diverse and positive representations of real bodies without filters or shame.  In a complementary article, Sönke Reise (GetNakedGermany e.V.) interviews Gregor Wildförster, an internationally acclaimed photographer, who has a passion for photographing naked women who do not conform to conventional beauty ideals. His photographs promote liberation, positive self-image, and self-love.
In other news, British Naturism’s Sunfolk site hosted the annual in-person meeting of the INF-FNI Central Committee in June. The minutes of this and future meetings are publicly available to download https://downloads.inf-fni.org/inf-fni/. Further afield an innovative art therapy workshop took place in Brazil, blending art, naturist values and human connection.
 
It's available from the BN website downloads section
Our brilliant changes to the British Naturism website calendar make it easier than ever to find events that are coming up! In this weekly update we bring you all the links you need to find events, plus news of new events and reminders you about those you might like to go to. If you are an event host and your event needs a boost, then please let us know and we will try to include it. And if you go to an event and have a blast (well, you will), please consider writing about it for this website, BN magazine, as a blog on the Members’ Forum - or all three!

Highlights
There’s a weekend with the Christian Naturist Fellowship at the Naturist Foundation in Kent and if you are the right age, a Young British Naturism gathering at Lancashire Sun Club.
Another visit to the Dorset museum takes place tomorrow, help yourself to a cuppa and a chat on Sunday in Cardiff and enjoy the gardens of High Beeches in Sussex on Wednesday.
There are two Naked Heart Walks coming up, one of which is midweek for those of you with busy weekends. Dorothy Clive Garden on 13 August and Court Farm Lakes on 15 August.
As usual, you’ll find plenty of nude swims to go and more this weekend and through next week - https://www.bn.org.uk/events/

All the links you need
Follow this link to find about other ‘special’ events that might need a bit of planning ahead.
Want to know what’s happening near you? Add your postcode, set the distance and reveal all the events within that radius.
Don’t forget that there are some events which require no travel - British Naturism’s online events - there are 15 every week! Get fit, chill out and/or chat with other members.
You can use the ‘search’ option at the top of the page and find anything you want  in events - in fact, the whole website - using a keyword. This is particularly useful for finding repeating events too - for example if you spot a swim you’d like to attend but can’t make the next date, use the keyword search to find the dates for the whole series!
You can also home in on the kind of event you want to find out about! You’ll find calendars dedicated to:
Major British Naturism events - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/major/
Special Events - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/special/
The Great British Skinny Dip - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/gbsd/
Naked Heart Walks - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/nhw/
Swims - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/swim/
Sports - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/sport/
Fitness - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/fitness/
Walks - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/walk/
Holidays - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/holiday/
Online - https://www.bn.org.uk/bnevents/online/
 
Please note: only those events organised through BN are covered by BN’s insurance.  Participants in other events should make their own enquiries regarding appropriate insurance cover for that event.
 
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash

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