The UK has one of the best nude beaches in the world — these are the rules

It’s been named one of the world’s 25 best nude beaches (Picture: Shutterstock / SuxxesPhoto) If you’ve ever been to Dorset, you’ll know the coastline varies drastically. It spans roughly 90 miles and is made up of a mixture of dramatic cliffs, sweeping golden sandy beaches, and shingle-covered stretches. Some of the most popular spots include Durdle Door with its famous limestone rock arch, and Bournemouth beach, which has all the seaside classics – from promenades to piers. But did you know that Dorset is also home to one of the best nude beaches in the world? The naturist area is at Knoll Beach in Studland (Picture: imageBROKER/Shutterstock) Studland Bay has been home to a designated naturist area, where clothing is optional, since 1984. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. But people have been going there to strip off for much longer, with The National Trust claiming its nude history dates all the way back to the 1920s. And clearly people still enjoy going there to get their kit off, as it’s just been featured on a new global list of the 25 top nude beaches by CNN Travel. Located on Knoll Beach, the naturist area at Studland is a 900m section of the coast, which is clearly marked by signposts. These warn the general public that ‘naturists may be seen beyond this point’, and there are also signs for the naturists, encouraging them to ‘please dress’ before leaving. The designated area is clearly marked (Picture: Google Maps) What are the rules for visiting Studland’s naturist beach? British Naturism has a ‘beach code’, which are rules for visiting a naturist spot, such as the one at Studland Bay. 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Entrant must complete the entry form hosted on Metro. 1 prize of a two-night bed and breakfast stay in a Deluxe Room at The Gore Hotel in South Kensington, London for two (2) adults including dinner at the restaurant 190 Queen’s Gate on one night only consisting of a three course meal from the A La Carte menu with one (1) complimentary glass of wine included per person. Only one (1) entry will be accepted per person or per email address. Full T&Cs here. Within this, it is made very clear that the only difference between a naturist beach and a regular beach is the dress code. Your behaviour otherwise should not change. People are also asked to: Avoid being a nuisance Respect people’s space Don’t be an exhibitionist Avoid confronting or approaching textiles (clothed people) Any sexual activity is unwelcome and criminal in a public place Naturists are a trusting and trustworthy bunch, but please keep your valuables safe Always report crime The National Trust website warns that any indecent behaviour ‘will not be tolerated’, stating offenders will be prosecuted, including those making inappropriate use of photographic or filming equipment and drones. These devices may also be confiscated as evidence. Police and rangers patrol the beach regularly to ensure people are safe and to help with any concerns. Would you bare all at a naturist beach? Sign up to The Getaway Expert, your exclusive seven-day guide to travelling with confidence from Metro's travel editor, Alice Murphy. What facilities are there at the naturist beach? In terms of beach facilities, there’s not a lot to be found here. The nearest car parks are located at Shell Bay and Knoll Beach, which are a 20 to 30-minute walk from the naturist area. There is also daytime parking on Ferry Road, and from here many people choose to walk across the Studland and Godlingston Heath National Nature Reserve to reach the beach, which takes about 15 minutes. There are no loos at the naturist beach, but you can find some at Shell Bay and further along Knoll Beach, and if you’re looking for a snack, there’s also a café next to the Knoll Beach car park serving paninis, pasties, ice cream, and coffees. For those keen to take a dip, it’s also worth noting that there are no lifeguards on duty at this beach, so swimmers are urged to take care. Other popular Naturist spots Those tempted by the naturist lifestyle might be pleased to hear that there’s a whole ‘naked city’ in France. It’s called Cap d’Agde, and it’s a resort dedicated to the naturist community — a USP that’s helped it become the leading nude destination in the Mediterranean Basin, not to mention the largest naturist village in the world. That means you can go to the shops or even get cash out at the bank in the buff. There are no rules other than the obvious: be respectful. Every year, over 12 million people strip off and stay for the night in the ‘naked city’. During peak season, Cap d’Agde can welcome around 45,000 visitors per day. Nude cruises are also becoming increasingly popular. Travel company Bare Necessities has been taking passengers sans clothing on week-long cruises to the Caribbean and beyond since 1991. But there is one strict rule men have to follow on the ship, according to cruise organiser for the company, Kat Whitmire. Erections onboard are strictly banned unless they’re in the comfort of their own cabin. ‘Men can’t be overly excited. We say that if they start to feel things around moving down there, jump in cold water, or think about baseball,’ Kat told Business Insider. This is because, from departure to dock, naturist cruising is non-sexual. Do you have a story you’d like to share? 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