News and Articles
News and articles about BN and the wonderful world of Naturism
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.
Keen hiker, Pam, who recently completed the Yorkshire three peaks challenge in under eight hours, had to celebrate a day early due to work commitments:
“Walking nude boosts your self confidence and mental health because it is very free and natural. Most of the women I know outside of naturism worry constantly what their bodies look like, but walking nude shows you it doesn’t matter.”
This year there has been a surge in people walking naked for charity. Yesterday alone, events organised by British Naturism raised thousands of pounds for the British Heart Foundation, meaning that people have been able to help the physical health of others while supporting their own mental health.
This was not just a fun day out; proceeds were in aid of the British Heart Foundation, with £1,800 raised from the walk. After a couple of years that have seen major charities in crisis because COVID-19 has halted so many fundraising activities, it is essential that we all chip in where we can, and British Naturism is pleased to do its part.
Although the walk went off without a hitch, thanks to the efforts of our events organisers, the build-up to the walk was not all plain sailing as there were several attempts by vigilantes to get the fundraiser stopped. Sadly, it is all too common these days for bad actors to target minority groups, without regard for the pain that they cause individuals or in this case the damage that they do to charities that benefit us all. British Naturism is proud to stand up to hatred, work alongside key charities such as The British Heart Foundation, and have a tremendous amount of fun while doing so.
Like many of our events, the walk was picked up by much of the local media and we were joined on the day by a news crew from ITV, who came to document this first for Morecambe Bay.
https://www.itv.com/news/granada/2021-06-20/morecambe-bays-first-ever-naked-walk-for-the-british-heart-foundation?
If this inspires you to try Naturism and, more importantly, raise money for charity by trying Naturism we have lots of opportunities planned throughout the summer around the country.
Hopefully we will see you at the next one.
On the website you’ll find loads of information about the GBSD, British Naturism and BHF, along with helpful FAQs. There’s an events calendar with a searchable list of all dips open to the public and a map of the country showing all the dips.
Don’t miss the blog, where we’ll post announcements of new venues and links to inspiring stories to help you feel good about getting involved. We’ll also talk about fundraising, and the work of our chosen charity.
The Downloads page provides everything you need for the GBSD. There’s a fundraising kit, a skinny dip poster template, and risk assessment forms for event-hosters. There are images for pimping up your Facebook page.
What will make the GBSD a fantastic success is having lots of events around the country.
So we’re looking for people who have available venues. That means you, leisure centre managers, Naturist club members, swimmers, and anyone else with access to a body of water suitable for dipping.
We also need people who want to organise events but don’t have venues.
On the “Host a Dip” page on the website you’ll find everything you need for registering and hosting an event or for finding an appropriate venue. We’ve included information to help you deal with potential concerns from venues.
So jump in! Be a host, take part in an event, raise money for BHF. The only thing you’ve got to lose is your clothes.
greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk
Keep an eye on both of our event listings sites for more! events.bn.org.uk bn.org.uk/calendar
17th June - Walk with Naturist Ramblers, Arundel, West Sussex
20th June - Guided walk across Morecambe Bay, Lancashire/Cumbria
20th June - a visit to Fullers Mill Gardens, Suffolk
21st June - Naturist Walk, nr Aylesbury
22nd June - Walk with Naturist Ramblers, Ashdown Forest
23rd June - a visit to Dorothy Clive Garden, Shropshire
25th June - Walk with Stark Trekkers, Hastings
27th June - a trip to the Big Bear Cider Tour, Essex
A party game that you could play with people and show them the diversity of the nude form?
A party game so easy your kids could join in and learn to accept the nude form, encouraging positive body images as they grow up?
That's what TJ, one of the founders of Table Candle, the makers of this card game told BN magazine when we asked him about it. He also told us that the ground-breaking move of showing full nudity caused some problems. “Our first printer refused to print it. The second agreed but at a prohibitive cost. Our third printer, The Game Crafter, is a great company that does not believe in censorship as long as you are playing within the rules. We expect as it becomes more popular we might get hit, but the Candle's flame can never be blown out forever. As long as we have a wick and wax, we will burn bright.” Quite.
Sunburnt is based on a Victorian card game called “Uninvited Guest” and the idea is to pair up the pictures on the cards by taking a card from your opponents' hand and trying to pair it with one of the cards in your own. The nude pictures on the cards were drawn by a member of the Marvel Comics team, Iolanda Zanfardino.
One review of the game said “This is the most body positive and inclusive game I've ever played/ owned. The art is amazing and I'll be proud to play this with my family and friends. Thank you for creating such a wonderfully inclusive game that champions the beauty and uniqueness of the bodies we all own!”
thegamecrafter.com/games/ sunburnt
During heatwave, we’ve seen the question posed across the media and it’s a bit annoying to Naturists that there is even a suggestion that it might not be.
The Sexual Offences Act 2003 was carefully worded to exclude Naturism - it is perfectly ok to take your clothes off to enjoy the sun and the breeze on your skin, or the life-affirming feeling of swimming without a costume. However, if you do so because you have the intention of causing ‘alarm and distress’ then it could be a criminal offence though the onus is on the onlooker to prove the intent. Despite what many media reports suggest, merely being ‘offended’ is not enough to warrant a call to the authorities. Let’s face it, in this Mrs Grundy society, they’d be inundated!
It follows that nudity is permissible in all public places…and how could it not be? It’s our natural state. It’s only social conditioning that tells us that certain parts of our body are - choose your own adjective: shameful, disgusting, sexual, offensive, ridiculous - and must therefore be hidden away. The harmful growth in poor body image and almost obsessive focus on appearance as the only measure of a person’s worth is entirely because we’ve suppressed normal bodies so much that no-one knows what normal is anymore and the only indicator of how to be is the airbrushed celebrity. Sadly, the same conditioning has led people to conclude that a nude person, especially a man, must be up to no good. No-one, ever, children included, has been harmed by the sight of a naked person.
We’re aware of the sensitivities though. Many people never think to challenge what their parents and teachers taught them when they were very young. That social conditioning, the stigma and taboos are thus ingrained and it takes a lot to change attitudes. Whilst it’s perfectly legal, Naturists will rarely be nude in very public places, it’s too easily misunderstood, or treated with suspicion, and it only takes one member of the public to make a fuss and the damage is done. We’ve worked with the police and the number of arrests and cautions has plummeted, but still pockets of ignorance remain.
Being neighbourly is desirable and so Naturists sunbathing in their back garden will generally choose a spot that isn’t too overlooked and will often speak to neighbours who can see into their garden to advise them they may catch a glimpse of naked flesh. Anecdotal evidence and long experience shows that most neighbours couldn’t care less. It’s also not uncommon for them to say ‘Great! We do that too!’ Wearing clothes of any description during hot weather can be uncomfortable and stripping down to nothing (whatever your mother might say) is sensible and not at all provocative.
So, go ahead. Strip off. Enjoy the sun and the exhilarating feeling of being naked.
Photo credit: James Johnstone
As you can see from the illustration, we've completely rebranded and we're just putting the finishing touches to a new website which will be launched soon. There's a bigger focus this year on venues and participants raising money for our charity of the year, British Heart Foundation.
So, on Monday we'll give you an overview of the project and then, using breakout rooms, hear your views on how you plan to get involved - to raise the profile, to secure as many venues as possible - Naturist clubs and swims included - to invite people you know to give it a try, and to raise money for such a good cause.
Reserve your place now...
More and more people are discovering the joy of clothes-free recreation and the boost it gives to self-confidence, body image and mental health. It's also a lot of fun!
Covid-willing, there are plenty of British Naturism events to look forward to this summer in the UK. Choose from festivals and camping, hotel breaks, and Naturist walks, including across Morecambe Bay, in the Highlands of Scotland and the Naked Heart Walk for our charity of the year British Heart Foundation at Painshill Park in Surrey.
Days out where you can leave your clothes behind, include a variety of gardens - Alnwick, Gibberd, Fullers Mill, Jupiter Artland and Dorothy Clive, plus trips to a nuclear bunker, a cider farm and a vineyard.
Details on all of these and information about booking can be found on our dedicated events website.
The event is open to all British Naturism members and is expected to last an hour. Questions for the Directors and Executive Committee members on any relevant subject will be welcome. To help us manage the session and to provide the best possible answers we would welcome questions in advance, and we will take these first. Subject to time constraints we will take questions on the night as well.
If you have a question, please send it to headoffice@bn.org.uk
Book your place now...
Photo by Marius Oprea on Unsplash
