News and Articles

New Naked Heart Walk in Hertfordshire!

New Naked Heart Walk in Hertfordshire!

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!

One Million Reasons Why TheNakedTruth Matters

One Million Reasons Why TheNakedTruth Matters

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.

Events this weekend - and beyond!

Events this weekend - and beyond!

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

A Bit of Dorothy Clive Garden-ing on a Summer’s Evening

A Bit of Dorothy Clive Garden-ing on a Summer’s Evening

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

Looking Back and Moving Forward: A New Chapter for British Naturism’s Media and Marketing

Looking Back and Moving Forward: A New Chapter for British Naturism’s Media and Marketing

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.

Baskerville Hall - our next big event starts tomorrow!

Baskerville Hall - our next big event starts tomorrow!

Some places still available - come and enjoy great entertainment and great company in a lovely setting on the Welsh borders!
There's a pool and sauna and the River Wye and the town of Hay-on-Wye close by.
Find out all about it here!

Go Forth! Some spaces still available for our naked boat trip...

Go Forth! Some spaces still available for our naked boat trip...

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!

Naked Heart Walks success at Himalayan Gardens

Naked Heart Walks success at Himalayan Gardens

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)

Events this weekend - and beyond!

Events this weekend - and beyond!

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

The Future of Studland: Looking Fifty Years Ahead

The Future of Studland: Looking Fifty Years Ahead

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

Are you getting the news?

Are you getting the news?

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.

Withington Swim - this Sunday!

Withington Swim - this Sunday!

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!

Events this weekend - and beyond!

Events this weekend - and beyond!

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

Baskerville Hall - are YOU going?

Baskerville Hall - are YOU going?

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!

Court Farm Lakes Naked Heart Walk - not too late to book!

Court Farm Lakes Naked Heart Walk - not too late to book!

'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.

INF Focus - latest issue

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.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

Events this weekend - and beyond!

Events this weekend - and beyond!

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

Women in Focus podcast - new episode!

Women in Focus podcast - new episode!

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.
Just dropped: Episode 21, Part 2 of the Women in Focus Podcast - this Saturday, we’re back with the second half of Helen Berriman’s powerful interview with Louise Butcher – The Topless Runner. If you thought Part 1 was bold, wait until you hear this.
Louise opens up even more about what drives her to challenge body taboos, run proudly without a top, and speak out about the everyday double standards women face. From body image to public perception, activism to personal freedom – this conversation goes deep.
Expect honesty, laughter, and some seriously thought-provoking moments as Louise and Helen unpack what it means to truly take up space as a woman, unapologetically. This is not just about running. It’s about reclaiming autonomy, visibility, and voice.
Don’t forget to share it with someone who needs a dose of inspiration today!
Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts - launching Saturday 2 August
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

TheNakedTruth Campaign Steps Up for Young Women

TheNakedTruth Campaign Steps Up for Young Women

Over the last two months, TheNakedTruth campaign has focused on one of the most pressing issues facing young women today: body confidence and the devastating impact it can have on mental health.

With more than 1 in 5 young women now affected by eating disorders (NHS Data, 2023), this is not a problem we can afford to ignore.

To help bring these issues into the spotlight, we’ve welcomed two powerful new voices to TheNakedTruth team. Saoirse, 21, attended her first Naturist event at the end of May. Rae, 19, joined in July. Despite only being involved for a short time, they’ve already been making waves—creating compelling content and catching the attention of mainstream media. (Watch out for a documentary feature this September.)

You might assume that these confident young women have never struggled with body image. That’s far from the truth. Both have faced the very same challenges, deep anxieties, self-doubt, and disordered eating, but they’ve come through the other side. That’s why they’re so passionate about speaking up now. They know healing is possible, and they want to help others find their way too.

🎥 Their first video drops today on TheNakedTruth Instagram. You can watch it here – and see a snippet below.

There is a lot more content to come from these two and if you’re at the EveryBody Festival this week, Saoirse will be there in person, so know that these are issues that we are not about to drop.

DSC_4335Rae BodyConfidence snippet.mp4

A reduced price skinny-dip and a walk in Cumbria - next week

A reduced price skinny-dip and a walk in Cumbria - next week

Looking ahead to next week on Tuesday 5 August, we have a double event in the fabulous Naturist friendly county of Cumbria. We recently noticed a drop off in attendances for the Shap Lido, so I suggested to my Shap Lido contact that the price of £14 was perhaps a bit off putting as many attendees travel from afar, so the ticket price could be prohibitive.
I suggested that maybe we could ask the Shap Committee to reduce the length of the session to 90 minutes instead of the 2 hour slot and reflect this in a new agreed price of £10pp. So basically a GBSD relaunch could be achieved for this marvellous event at the highest Lido in England. The new time will be 6pm – 7.30pm. See the BN North West Calendar for tickets. We hope to see you there.
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The BN Pre-Shap Lido ‘Clothes Optional’ Walk takes a completely different route this month, taking walkers through the ‘Howgills’ then Randygill top and green Bell from near Weasdale Farm, Raven Stonedale. The walk will be around 10 kilometres (6.6 miles) with a 490 metre (1607 ft) ascent.
We will meet at 12.45 and start walking at 1pm, and be finished in time to join the Shap Lido at 6pm.
For more details or to confirm your attendance, please visit the BN calendar.

The Great British Skinny Dip - plenty of swims yet to come!

The Great British Skinny Dip - plenty of swims yet to come!

Celebrating its 10th year in 2025, the Great British Skinny Dip (GBSD) is proving that swimming without a costume isn’t just for Naturists - with new venues hosting events and attracting newcomers to this healthy and exhilarating way of taking a dip - and raising funds for the British Heart Foundation.
It reinforces what an Ipsos poll commissioned by British Naturism in 2022, revealed (pun intended): that almost 7 million Britons describe themselves as ‘Naturists’ or ‘Nudists’.
There are 500 skinny dips taking place in 2025. Visit the Great British Skinny Dip calendar to find them all.
At the top right of the listing you will see a button labelled ‘Distance’ - pop in your postcode and a radius and find all GBSDs near you!
And we’re not done yet! We’re asking people up and down the country to find more venues. Can’t see a skinny dip in your neck of the woods? Host one! We’ll be happy to help get something off the ground.
 
 
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 get the exhilarating feelings for themselves. We encourage anyone 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 to support the BHF and, thanks to British Naturism, these now include going for a skinny dip. We hope that thousands of people will take the plunge at one of the many events being held around the country. In doing so, they’ll be helping us fund scientists to discover the new treatments and cures that can save and improve lives.”
 
We have people willing to be interviewed/photographed and stock photos for media use.
Media attendance at the swims 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 

Keep Busy with BN!

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:
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.
Check out TheNakedTruth - short online video interviews with Naturists on a variety of topics
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 events 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...

Events this weekend - and beyond!

Events this weekend - and beyond!

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
The World Naked Bike Rides continue - check out which ones are happening this weekend and in August
As usual, you’ll find plenty of nude swims to go to plus socials, walks, sports events and plenty of 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

Himalayan Garden Naked Heart Walk - Saturday 9 August

Himalayan Garden Naked Heart Walk - Saturday 9 August

The Himalayan Gardens Naked Heart Walk is a regularly held event organised jointly by the YEM and NW Regions, consistently attracting approximately 90 participants, writes NW regional organiser Ron O'Hare, and we're looking forward to our second event in partnership with British Heart Foundation on August 9.
For our event in June the weather was dry but quite cool for our third annual visit to this stunningly beautiful venue situated seven miles north of Ripon, Yorkshire.
We long since realised that there was no need to go with a guided walk here as the participants, equipped with a venue supplied map, were happy to go off and explore the many paths which lead to picturesque settings, enabling perfect photographic opportunities from various elevated positions before heading down to the Lakeside Café for snacks and drinks in a perfect setting on the beautiful lawns.
It was great to see some clothes optional partners of Naturists enjoying the event and they all stripped off eventually, one new to Naturism lady said, ‘’This is the most exhilarating thing I have ever done’’. Surprisingly, the friendly venue management team kindly reduced the Group Visitor price for us to £10pp as a goodwill gesture to aid fundraising, this enabled us to raise well over £1k for the British Heart Foundation in just 3 hours. Thanks to BHF for supplying the Medals.
Find out more about the next Naked Heart Walk and book your place here!

Return to the Dorset Museum - now on sale

Return to the Dorset Museum - now on sale

On the evening of Saturday August 2 you can immerse yourself in 250 million years of natural history at The Dorset Museum and Art Gallery in Dorchester, writes SW region events organiser Keith Bowman. 
View the secrets of geology, landscapes, habitats, and wildlife that surround us every day. Discover the life and works of Dorset’s famous novelist and poet Thomas Hardy and dive into key themes of his personal and professional life. Celebrate the works of Jane Austen as the museum puts on a special exhibition to mark the famous author’s 250th birthday. This is an amazing opportunity to enjoy a private viewing of the museum NAKED.
This will be our second time at the museum. In addition to a great night out we also had a lot of media attention last time, all helping to raise the profile of Naturism!
For additional information and to buy tickets please visit the BN Calendar. See you there!