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23

Jul

Last Updated: 23/07/2026
Ripon
Ripon

Naked boules in Harrogate and naked walk in Ripon as naturists welcome newcomers

by John Plummer

| 23 Jul, 2026
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0

screenshot-2026-07-23-at-14-34-52
Valley Sun Club

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Two upcoming events will encourage people to experience naturism in Harrogate and Ripon.

Valley Sun Club, a naturist club just outside Harrogate, is holding a free-to-attend Leave Your Clothes at the Gate event on August 1.

It will be followed by the latest naked walk at the Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park, near Ripon, on August 8. Last year, the Stray Ferret joined the naked walk to find out more about naturism. You can read about it here.

Visitors to Valley Sun Club will be given guided tours of the facilities and have the chance to take part in activities such as boules and mini golf, as well as relaxing in the club's grounds.

Club spokesperson Steve Knight, said people would have the opportunity to find out what naturism is really about in a relaxed, welcoming and completely pressure-free environment:

Many people think naturism is about taking your clothes off. In reality, it's about more than that - feeling comfortable in your own skin, enjoying nature and meeting friendly, genuine people without judgement. Yorkshire Day is the perfect opportunity to discover that for yourself.

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A previous clothing-optional walk at the sculpture park.

Participants must book in advance.

British Naturism, the UK's national naturist organisation, says many people experience improved body confidence, reduced

stress and a greater sense of wellbeing from going naked.

The naked walk, which has become an annual event, raises money for the British Heart Foundation. It takes place from 5pm to 8pm on August 8, after regular day visitors to the sculpture park have departed.

StarNaked in Ripon — we meet the naturists for tea and buns at the Himalayan GardenStarCold-water bathing to return to Harrogate