The status of naturist beaches in the UK varies from place to place: some are formally designated by local councils, others are long-established through custom and mutual tolerance rather than any official sign. None of the locations below have a special legal status beyond ordinary public beach law — what makes them "naturist beaches" is simply that nude use is well established, socially accepted, and unlikely to draw comment. See our guide to whether naturism is legal in the UK for the legal picture, and what to expect on a first visit for etiquette.

Beach status can change with local authority policy, coastal erosion or land management. Always check British Naturism's current beach finder before travelling any distance.

Studland Bay

Dorset

One of the UK's largest and longest-running naturist beaches, at the southern end of Studland's Knoll Beach, managed with the National Trust's awareness. Good facilities nearby; very well established.

Ovingdean Gap

Brighton, East Sussex

A council-designated naturist beach just east of Brighton Marina, reachable along the undercliff walk. Popular with a mixed, sizeable naturist community.

Morfa Dyffryn

Gwynedd, Wales

A large dune-backed beach on the Welsh coast with a long-recognised naturist section, historically supported by conservation bodies managing the dunes.

Fairlight Glen

East Sussex

A quieter, cove-like beach near Hastings, reached via a woodland path through Hastings Country Park. Long-standing informal naturist use.

Holkham

Norfolk

A vast beach where naturist use is customary at its eastern end, within the Holkham National Nature Reserve. Tide and distance from the car park mean it stays quiet.

Pedn Vounder

Cornwall

A dramatic cove near Porthcurno with informal naturist use, accessed via a steep cliff path. Tide-dependent — check timings carefully before descending.

First time at a naturist beach?

Read our full guide, Naturist Beaches in the UK: What Should You Expect?, or start with the basics in our Beginner's Guide.

Stay in the conversation

New books, new writing and occasional thoughts about freedom, naturism and the human experience.