Naturism at Studland Bay

A group of people in the naturist area at Studland Bay — Enjoying the sun at the naturist beach on Studland Bay

With a history going back as far as the 1920s, naturism has become a distinctive part of the landscape on the Studland peninsular. Today, Studland has probably the best known official naturist beach in Britain.

The National Trust welcomes naturists and has marked out nearly 1km of beach where clothing is optional.

We’re working with partners including Studland Beach Users Action Group, British Naturism and the police to keep Studland safe and family-friendly (see below).

We ask that naturists and non-naturists alike respect the rights of others and refrain from behaviour likely to cause offence. Police and rangers patrol regularly and will be happy to help with any concerns.

British Naturism has produced a beach code and holds regular beach days at Studland.

Download the British Naturism beach code (PDF / 0MB) download

Where is the naturist beach?

The naturist area is located on Knoll Beach and comprises a 900m stretch of coastline.

The area is clearly marked with green-topped posts and blue signs. We ask naturists to be clothed if they're outside the designated area.

If you wish to avoid this area, please use the Heather Walk trail.

One of the signs near the naturist area at Studland Bay — The naturist area is clearly signposted

In April 2013 we expanded the naturist area following requests for more space from naturist groups.

The boundary of the northern section of the naturist area was extended approximately 50 metres inland where it is marked with green posts.

Posts marking the old boundary were left in place as removing them would damage the dunes, but they were repainted brown.

Facilities at Studland's naturist beach

There are National Trust car parks at Shell Bay and Knoll Beach, a walk of approximately half an hour from the naturist beach.

Daytime parking is also available on Ferry Road. The nearest toilets are at Shell Bay car park and Knoll Beach.

Please be aware that there are no toilet facilities available at the naturist beach itself and try to plan your visit accordingly.

A seasonal catering van (not NT) operates at the naturist beach during the summer, selling hot and cold refreshments and ice creams. Our café is next to the car park at Knoll Beach.

Feeling peckish?

Our food outlet is open and will initially be serving a limited range of takeaway hot and cold drinks and light snacks. We’ve introduced new safety measures including closure of our seating areas, screens at our till and collection points, and waymarked routes. We’ll also only be accepting card payment. We look forward to welcoming you back and know that you’ll support us to make this a safe experience for everyone. In line with government guidelines you'll be required to wear a face covering in our shops, cafés and food outlets in England. Please bring one with you.

Inappropriate behaviour

We want everyone to feel safe at Studland and indecent behaviour will not be tolerated. Offenders will be prosecuted, including those making inappropriate use of photographic or filming equipment, which may be confiscated as evidence.

If you witness any incidents of inappropriate behaviour please report them to our staff on 07970 595963 or the police on 999 or 01202 222222.

A sign marking the boundary of the naturist area at Studland Bay — Please follow the code of conduct

Studland Beach Users Action Group

SBUAG was set up in 2005 as a way of addressing beach issues. The group is made up of the emergency services, the National Trust, local businesses, naturist organisations, local councils and others. SBUAG community wardens assist with beach patrols in peak season.

Beach safety at Studland

Heath fires are a constant threat at Studland, but we can all do our bit to prevent them. Please use barbecues in designated areas only - no open fires. Studland was a military training area in the Second World War and some unexploded ordnance remains. If you see anything suspicious DO NOT TOUCH - call 07970 595963 or 999.

Our policy on BBQs

Due to a high risk of wildfires at the moment, we're asking you to please not bring a barbecue or light a campfire when you visit the coast and countryside. To help protect wildlife, please also take any litter home with you.

Read our full policy on BBQs