Firstly, we'll learn more about the FFN's #stopbodyshaming campaign AND hear about his recent appointment, tasks and plans as the INF's European Assessor.
You won't want to miss it ... Reserve your place now!
News and Articles
News and articles about BN and the wonderful world of Naturism
Firstly, we'll learn more about the FFN's #stopbodyshaming campaign AND hear about his recent appointment, tasks and plans as the INF's European Assessor.
You won't want to miss it ... Reserve your place now!
We asked the FFN’s Eric Stafanu to tells us all about it...
BN: Can you give us an overview of the campaign?
FFN: The main activity is a social media campaign with posters and photos talking about the diversity of bodies, acceptance of them and to advocate for nudity. We want to show that people should not be ashamed of their bodies and their nudity. A photo exhibition will be hosted throughout 2021 and 2022 by naturist clubs and associations in France, but also in venues outside Naturism for the enjoyment and education of the general public. Finally, a press day will be organised in Paris as soon as the health situation allows.
BN: What prompted you to launch the campaign?
FFN: In the media, there is a rising wave of women's groups protesting against "body shaming" or reading the smear campaigns against actresses who have put on weight or are thinner on social networks. When the world raves about the fact that a large luxury brand shows a model size 40 (Size 7 in the UK) when the average size of French people is much higher, we can say that some institutions are disconnected from the realities and impose unattainable standards for normal people. This leads to frustration and negative psychological outcomes such as anorexia or bulimia.
So who better than naturists to talk about ‘body-positivity’! we've been practicing it for decades! There is no judgment others in our community. In fact, there is acceptance, benevolence, acknowledgement that we are all different. We felt it was time to show these values o the general public. What better way to do it than to show naked women and men without artifice, to illustrate on the diversity of the human body?
BN: What results are you hoping for?
Our aim is to generate a national, social debate on the acceptance of the human body, non-judgment of a person’s physique, the freedom of the body in the face of social, religious or fashion requirements and also to show that simple nudity is beneficial for society. Let the journalists pick up on these themes, let the newspapers disseminate the photos and testimonies. I hope people will realise that being a naturist isn't just about sunbathing naked by the sea, but that there are important values that go with it.
The Great British Skinny Dip summer is well under way with events at Marbury Country Park on 27th July and Bury St Edmonds Leisure Centre on 31st July.
Our GBSD events attract wonderful publicity for Naturism, you may have read the fabulous coverage after the Morfa Dyffryn dip last weekend in the Daily Mirror.
British Naturism members can find more media links on the Members' Forum (log in required)
And an update - The Gathering has a changed venue to Waverley Castle, south of Edinburgh. The dates and price remain the same. The hotel in set in lovely grounds on the edge of the town and is approx half mile from Tweedbank station with trains from Edinburgh .All those who have already booked will hear from us with an update soon.
Q. How do I find out more about these and other superb events I can attend this summer?
A. Easy! Check out these links
Events run by British Naturism - events.bn.org.uk
All other events (you can add your own!) - bn.org.uk/calendar
Online events - shop.bn.org.uk/pages/online-home
The Great British Skinny Dip - greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk
Naturism is increasing in popularity in the UK with more and more people gaining the health and well-being benefits that come with a clothes-free lifestyle. And one of the most exhilarating ways to experience the life-affirming feeling of being naked is swimming.
This summer hundreds of people across the UK have been skinny dipping to raise money for British Heart Foundation. They will improve their mental and physical health and wellbeing, body confidence and reduce their stress. They’ll also have great fun!
Marbury open air pool is hosting a skinny dip as part of the Great British Skinny Dip on Tuesday 27th July from 7.15pm-9.15pm BST. The pool is set in the grounds of Marbury Country Park. A gas BBQ is available if you bring your own food. There is also a tuck-shop serving ice creams, cold drinks, slushies and bean-to-cup coffee.
The open-air pool was built in the 1930s for the members of Marbury Hall Country Club, was then used for many years by ICI employees, and is now run by Marbury Park Swimming Club.
Marbury Country Park lies in the heart of Northwich Community Woodlands, an integral part of the Mersey Forest. Former industrial land is gradually being transformed to create a rich and green environment stretching from Marbury to Northwich.
Gavin Ball from Marbury Park Swimming Club said:
'We’re delighted to host an event under the banner of the Great British Skinny Dip and show that there are no barriers to who can make use of our wonderful venue. The health and well-being benefits of swimming outdoors are well-known and we’re pleased to be able to encourage dippers to raise money for British Heart Foundation.'
Ron O’Hare from British Naturism said:
'More and more venues are seeing the commercial value in hosting events for the growing number of people who want to swim without a costume. We’re really looking forward to our skinny dip at Marbury Park - and hope that it’s the first of many!
To reserve your place, find out more about the event, the fundraising and the Great British Skinny Dip generally please visit the Great British Skinny Dip website calendar.
Media attendance is possible, with advance notice. Please contact us as below to make arrangements.
Contacts:
Marbury Park Swimming Club: marburypool@gmail.com
British Naturism: Andrew Welch andrew.welch@bn.org.uk
For more information on Naturism in the UK and the activities of national organisation British Naturism, please visit:
bn.org.uk
https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/
events.bn.org.uk
goodtimes.bn.org.uk
And have a look at our Guide to Naturism in 2021
The London ride regularly attracts over 1,000 riders, but that’s small compared with Portland in the USA where they sometimes get over 10,000. According to the WNBR global wiki, there are over 200 cities in 35 countries that have had WNBR campaigns. There are 33 locations listed in the UK, although not all are currently riding. Typically, there are around 15 UK rides each year, so, if you don’t fancy the bustle of London, how about a pleasant ride around Brighton with a cruise along the seafront, ending with a dip in the sea at the naturist beach. Or try a tour of other great cities like Cardiff, Edinburgh, Bristol, Manchester and many more.
We're delighted to welcome organisers from the London and Brighton rides and will find out more about the history of the rides, what it takes to put them on - and what to expect in 2021!
Reserve your place now!
My partner and I had been to this beach before but this was our first BN skinny dip there. In fact, it was our first BN skinny dip…
We arrived around 11 a.m. There were quite a few people already baking in the sun, so we set up the little tent and joined them. It was encouraging to see so many women on the beach.
The tide was out, and the shallow water was bathtub-warm in places and refreshingly icy in others.
Around 2pm, people started gathering, and at a signal from organizer John, around 30 of us dashed into the water. There’s something so companionable about floating around naked in the water and chatting
But the star of the show was the giant pink inflatable flamingo. It went into the sea with us and became a sort of mascot. Here it is with Alex and Cath from Manchester, and David from North Wales. Hope it had as much fun at the GBSD as we did!
Perfect weather for skinny-dipping while you support British Naturism’s Great British Skinny Dip and our chosen charity, the British Heart Foundation!
Happily, there are several opportunities for getting naked in the next few days.
Today, Tuesday, July 13:
Shap Lido - 6:00-8:00 p.m. (Gayle Ave, Shap Penrith, England CA 10 3NS)
Saturday, July 17:
The Sunfolk Skinny Dip - 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (British Naturism Sunfolk Hazel Rd Park Street St Albans England AL2 2AJ)
Beacon Tarn Naked Walk and Dip 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Beacon Tarn, Lake District Brown Howe Ulverston England LA12 8DW)
Kerensa Cottage, Somerset - 11:00 AM - 5:30 PM (Kerensa Cottage Chiselborough Stoke-sub-Hamdon England TA14 6TL)
Morfa Dyffryn - 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Morfa Dyffryn Beach Dyffryn Ardudwy Wales LL44 2HD)
Normans Bay Naturist Beach - 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Normans Bay Naturist Beach Normans Bay Pevensey England BN24 6PR
St Anne’s Beach Lancashire - 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM (St Anne’s Beach Clifton Dr N Lytham Saint Annes England FY8)
Check out these and all the dips on the Great British Skinny Dip website!
Mick joined the ANF only two years ago because he saw a need and rather than just sitting back and complaining he put his hat in the ring to lend a hand.
Mick's background is in road transport, and has had the privilege of driving trucks of all sizes including road trains around the great country of Australia for the past 30 years. Back in 2010 he saw Spencer Tunick photograph hundreds of people, and having his own body image issue, looked further into social nudity and subsequently he and his wife embraced the Naturist lifestyle together.
I'll be talking to Mick about that journey and about ANF, it's history and the current status, as well as perceptions of the nude body down under. We'll also look at holiday options - because we'll be able to travel there, sometime, won't we?
Register your place as soon as you can!
It’s been a blast - terrific to finally get out and be able to do something again, and to meet old friends and make new ones. It’s a cliché to say that it’s the people that make it, but like most clichés, it’s true. The community spirit and camaraderie has been tangible, as has the euphoria of spending time, dressed as nature intended, with like minded-people. As with all successful events, we’re leaving but eagerly anticipating the next one already.
The Great British Skinny Dip supports the nation's largest heart charity, the British Heart Foundation, and we would like to encourage participants to raise vital funds to power the nation’s heartbeats.
Here’s where you come in.
We're seeking local venues around the country willing to run charity dips.
Do you know of any in your area?
Can you inspire the owners/managers of these pools, lakes, leisure centres, gyms, lidos and other appropriate locations to take the plunge and organise a dip?
If you are reading this and you are from a media outlet, can you run stories that encourage venues in your area to host a skinny dip?
The newly launched Great British Skinny Dip 2021 website is here: https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/
For more information, please contact skinnydip@greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk
Throughout, the magic teapot serves tea and songs, the bar, catering van and coffee station are open, Wimbledon and other delights are shown on the village green big screen and guests can book a massage from one of four therapists.
Today we have another helping of sports, games, fitness and well-being sessions. Massage is being offered by five different practitioners across the week. There’s a jewellery making workshop, life drawing, wine tasting and a talk about Mars (the planet, not the chocolate bar). We have two sessions of Bigtop Mania circus performers, live music from Mobius Loop and then Karaoke. A screen on the village green will also show some men kicking a ball about in West London.
Image: Mark Bass. The Country Chicks from Tuesday night.
John and his wife Liz are members of a number of national federations as they take a very global approach to supporting Naturism. Their knowledge of different federations provides the opportunity to bring best practice from around the world and encourages a strategic approach to management.
John is very keen that British Naturism sets budgets in a more strategic manner, so that resources are available to advance Naturism. This will be a vital contribution as we develop Sunfolk. It is essential that expenditure is part of the overarching plan, so John’s interest in this area will be a real asset to British Naturism.
Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to thank Paul Martin for his help over the past year. We have been without a Finance Director since Phil Hughes was forced to step back by personal circumstances, so Paul’s willingness to chip in has kept us afloat.
I’m sure you will all join me in wishing John success in the role and thanking Paul for his contribution.
It was great to learn of people enjoying social nudity for the first time and early signs are that we have raised over £15000! (Update - over £25,000 raised in total!)
Thanks to everyone involved - organisers, walkers, caterers, volunteers... Can we do it again?
Image - Mark Bass
Our annual festival, established in 2007, gets full underway today with a packed programme.
Today's highlights include meditation, fitness and yoga sessions, team games and sports, hair braiding and didgeridoo workshops, tutored wine-tasting, fire-side storytelling, and two live music acts. We're also bringing in a video wall for the football...
Image - the cirque tent and a camping field ready for arrivals yesterday morning.
Naturism has a positive effect on the lives of many individuals. It has been proven to improve happiness, confidence, mental health, and self-image. At the same time, British Naturism is committed to taking a stand on behalf of all individuals and minorities that face abuse, be they Naturist or not.
A working group has been looking at how we run events and how we can protect our safety and our beliefs at the same time. Submitting to hate is the antithesis of Naturism, which is built on respect and welcomes all, regardless of background. On Monday 12th July, British Naturism President, Mark Bass, will present the findings of the working group and the strategy moving forward. We hope members will join us to hear the recommendations and support the campaign. Intolerance only flourishes while we let it, so by standing together we can have a positive effect on many lives.
Reserve your place now…
Walkers can choose between a 2km flat and wheelchair accessible route or a 5km walk that takes them through winding paths up and around the lake and woodland. Many of the Follies including the ruined Abbey, Gothic Temple and Turkish Tent can be seen from the waymarked routes.
Walkers have made an entry donation of £20, and pledged to raise £100. There are medals for those who complete the walk and the evening closes with a BBQ. Overall we expect to raise a five figure sum for heart research.
The event is the brainchild of the East Sussex Coastal BHF Fundraising Group, run by Naturist and British Naturism member Philip Baker. British Naturism have named BHF as their Charity of the Year and will be working with them through 2021 to raise cash and promote awareness of cardiovascular health. The health and well-being benefits of a nude lifestyle are well-known to Naturists and as the BHF also emphasises healthy living and lifelong well-being, so our relationship is a natural fit. It’s also the BHF’s 60th anniversary this year. We’re delighted to support them as they reach this landmark and to help ensure that they thrive for the next 60 years.
You can make a donation even if you are not attending! Visit our JustGiving page
The agenda for the evening is as yet unconfirmed, but we hope to bring you a tour of the site including the various venues where activities will take place - Zen, The Pavillion and Cirque, meet the organisers and find out about the line-up and how an event like Nudefest comes together, and chat to some Nudefest guests about their expectations for this fantastic British Naturism annual event!
Reserve your place now...
Founded by The Duchess of Northumberland in 2001, the continually evolving garden has attracted millions of visitors since opening. The garden is a wonderful playground with no ‘Keep off the grass’ signs, over 50 swinging chairs in the Taihaku Cherry Orchard, The Ornamental Lake, The Poison Garden, Bamboo Maze, and Ornamental Garden. There is also the Grand Cascade and other water features which enhance a Naturist visit since there are no worries about getting clothes wet!
Regional Co-ordinator, Danny Callaghan, British Naturism said:
‘It’s brilliant to include Alnwick Garden once again in our growing schedule of popular days out. Interest and participation in Naturism in the UK is rising quickly in popularity with more and more people eager to gain the health and well-being benefits of a naked lifestyle. Where better to experience the joy, the fun and the company of like-minded people than amongst the natural setting of a garden, and such a stunning garden at that.”
Ian McAllister from Alnwick Garden, said:
‘We are delighted to welcome British Naturism back to The Garden and proud to showcase the variety of events that our spaces lend themselves to. We are a diverse community and not only is this a great event to showcase our commitment to everyone and anyone who wishes to enjoy our large, colourful open spaces but is also a great way to enjoy nature without any of the restraints of day-to-day life. For us, The Alnwick Garden has always been "Your Garden" and therefore it is here to enjoy however you wish to! Our only advice to attendees is to be ultra careful when walking through The Rose Garden.
Please visit: https://shop.bn.org.uk/collections/2021-regional-events/products/alnwick-garden-visit for more details including booking information.
- ENDS-
Contacts:
British Naturism
Danny Callaghan - Regional Co-ordinator
danny.callaghan@bn.org.uk
Alnwick
Ian McAllister - Head of Marketing and Communications
07917 789307
ian.mcallister@alnwickgarden.com
www.alnwickgarden.com
For more information on British Naturism and our activities, please visit:
bn.org.uk
events.bn.org.uk
goodtimes.bn.org.uk
And have a look at our Guide to Naturism in 2021
The BN Holiday Advice service is run by members for members. Our panel of experts have sailed naked in the Med, camped in California, cruised in the buff in the Caribbean and cycled to Naturist clubs in Great Britain. They have been to Naturist clubs, beaches, hotels and resorts everywhere from New Zealand to the Netherlands, from Mexico to Montenegro and from Austria to Australia.
Today, we are delighted to introduce Sue Rau and Andrew Anderson as our new Holiday Advice Team leaders who are taking on the role jointly.
Sue first discovered Naturism when watching a documentary about British Naturism's Great British Skinny Dip in 2017 and it inspired her to try a skinny dip at Oaklands in Southampton. There she met people from Avonvale club in the New Forest, went on to join Avonvale and then BN.
Andrew had dabbled with skinny dipping and the occasional nude sunbathing all his life, then about seven years ago started going to the Halcyon swim. He decided to try Nudefest in 2017 so joined BN a couple of weeks before.
They both love to travel and explore and want to help other BN members find the best nude holiday that matches their interests and needs. There's a great team of experienced advisors ready to help you make that perfect holiday. They will be your point of contact to reach the right advisors, and to develop and promote the Holiday Advice Service.
Find out more on our dedicated Holiday Advice page
Naturism is increasing in popularity in the UK with more and more people gaining the health and well-being benefits that come with a clothes-free lifestyle. Valley Sun Club will hold an Open Day from 10am on Sunday July 18th to provide an opportunity for people to come and find out more about Naturism - and give it a try!
Valley Sun Club’s six acre woodland site has been operated by its members since 1930. They enjoy tranquillity and relaxation on the expansive lawns which provide plenty of space to sunbathe. Leisure pursuits include boules, miniten and a 9-hole pitch and putt golf course. A clubhouse with licensed bar is open at weekends where, alongside a pool table and darts, karaoke is a popular attraction. Regular themed meals are prepared from the well-equipped kitchen. Many members have a caravan on site during the summer season allowing them to stay as often as they wish at no additional charge. The club is also open to members who may only want to camp occasionally. Non-members with caravans, motor homes or tents are welcome to stay at the club by prior arrangement and well-behaved dogs are also welcome. A caravan is also available for rental. Two shower and toilet blocks provide plentiful hot water and indoor washing-up facilities are available for campers, too.
Valley Sun Club is perfectly located for walks along the beautiful Nidd Gorge, whilst walking and cycling routes nearby allow easy access to the quaint village of Ripley and the ancient market town of Knaresborough. Harrogate's varied tourist attractions - including Betty's Tea Rooms and the Harrogate Turkish Baths (and its clothing-optional sessions) are only 15 minutes drive away. The Yorkshire Dales National Park is also within easy reach.
Valley Sun Club member Steve Knight, said:
We are really looking forward to welcoming people to our open day. We love our club and are eager to show it off. Visitors will be able to talk to current members and are welcome to use any of the facilities whilst on site. Any Open Day visitors who decide to apply for membership will be able to take advantage of a half-price membership offer.
Visit the Valley Sun Club website at valley-sun-club.co.uk. To book your place, or for more information, contact richardatvalley@gmail.com or telephone 07340 177142.
For more information on Naturism in the UK and the activities of national organisation British Naturism, please visit:
bn.org.uk
events.bn.org.uk
goodtimes.bn.org.uk
And have a look at our Guide to Naturism in 2021
Running from 5th to 12th July, this year's naked festival will be a phase three event and as such has been designed as a covid- secure environment, socially distanced by design, with table service from the food and drink outlets.
As always, there is a packed programme of activities for guests to enjoy.
Highlights include:
Two live music acts every night A circus show from Big Top Mania The tallest waterslide in Europe Health and wellbeing opportunities including massage, yoga, fitness and aerobics classes, and sauna Sports, crafts, workshops and talks For the full line-up head to - https://shop.bn.org.uk/pages/nudefest-line-up - and bookmark that page as we are adding new activities all the time!
Not booked yet? We have a handful of last minute slots available...book at nudefest.co.uk
Thanks to our sponsors Cypress Cove, Max's Garden, JMC Caravans and Springwood
Andrea is the Fenait Secretary, and says, 'Naturism was in my mind since my twenties, but I discovered organised Naturism only in 2009, when I joined my local association (Associazione Naturista Abruzzese). Two years later I was elected as a member of the board; since then I have specialised in Naturist event management. Some years later I was invited to be a member of the federation board at Fenait). My goal was to obtain more democracy and collaboration among all the associations in Italy. Furthermore, I think the Italian federation, together with its members, have to work with public institutions to obtain full legal recognition and protection of Naturism. Much has been done but there is still a long way to go.'
We'll talk to Andrea about his involvement in Naturism, both personal and for Fenait, and hear about the Naturist scene in Italy, including the opportunities for holidays, and the situation with the law and public perception.
Reserve your place now https://shop.bn.org.uk/pages/forum-live.
