Torbay Sun Club

Some Questions you may be asking

Why do people go into naturism?

The reasons vary. Often, it's for freedom and the shedding of the pressures of life with the clothes. For many of us, naturism extends to the home; nudity helps us to unwind - that may sound bizarre but just try it. Taking off clothes has a way of removing social barriers too.

What is the difference between naturists and nudists?

None really. In America, the term nudist is universal but in the UK, some people use nudism to describe rather more extrovert nude behaviour. That's an arbitrary distinction.

Beware, you can sometimes see adverts for nudism linked with various occult practices. This isn't naturism / nudism, it's an occult practice which takes place in the nude.

With my figure, how can I go nude?

Easily! You will find that people are far less aware of your shape than you are. Naturists tend to be more aware of people for what they are than for what they look like.

By the way, the photographs on this site are of models who have particular skills in front of a camera lens - although they're comfortable with nudity, they're not yet Torbay Sun Club members!

What if I meet someone I know?

That's brilliant; you've just found a shared interest that you didn't know you had!  They're there for the same reason that you are and they'll be really pleased to see you.

My other half isn't interested in naturism but I would like to come along.  Is that O.K.?

This is probably the most commonly asked question of all.  Yes it is O.K. but, for any visitor, it's subject to a maximum of two visits in any year.

We try to keep the genders in balance and we would very much prefer that you show this page to your partner and see if you can put his or her concerns to rest.  It might well be something new that you can enjoy together.

I've never gone nude before; how do I start?

This is probably the second most common question.  Take your clothes off!  Try it at home first and get used to the feeling and freedom of being naked - it's not that different from having a bath or shower. 

The worst part about taking your clothes off for the first time in public is thinking about it.  Most people find that, once they have done it, it was easy and there was nothing to worry about.

Will I be the only woman among a lot of men?

No, we aim to keep the Club roughly gender balanced.

I'm shy about going nude, can I wear a swimsuit to start with, or at least keep a bikini bottom on?

That really is the way to look conspicuous in a naturist environment!  Apart from at a very small number of social evenings, all Torbay Sun Club indoor events are naturist and we don't allow swimwear. In the long run that makes it easier for you - if you start nude, it won't be an 'event' when you get rid of that cossie.

Can children wear their bathers?

No, not at our events. If naturism is new to you and your family, explain to them before you leave home what you are going to be trying - and then enjoy it together.

Aren't children at risk amongst naturists?

No, they're probably safer than elsewhere.  Like many other naturist groups, in the Torbay Sun Club we take the safety and well-being of our young people very seriously and we have two members serving as Child Protection Officers who have been chosen for their skills and checked
by the Criminal Records Bureau .

Will other people know that I come to your events?

No, not unless you tell them.  Membership of the Torbay Sun Club and attendance at our events is strictly confidential and we would only disclose your name and address under these extreme circumstances:

• If you had an accident or became ill at one of our events, we would give them to the emergency services if you were incapable of doing so yourself.

• If we were required by law to give such information to police investigating an alleged crime at a Club event.  That has never happened yet and we hope it never will.

Why do you keep talking about Clubs? Are they the only places you can go nude?

This site exists to tell you about the Torbay Sun Club, but of course naturism isn't restricted to clubs and there are beaches and open spaces which are well used by naturists too - and you can go nude in your own home.

Do I need to shave off or trim my pubic hair?

No, not at all.  Some people do and others don't - it's entirely a matter of personal choice. 

What about the Sexual Offences Act?

Naturists were very worried that the Act would threaten their lifestyle.  Naturists everywhere, including from Torbay Sun Club, put together a very well organised information campaign whilst the Act was going through its Bill stages.  After much discussion, clarity and common sense eventually prevailed. This is the current position:

• We support the Act.

• Numerous publications from the government show that it is no intention of the Act to restrict the activities of bona fide naturists.

• Nudity would only be an offence if it were intended to cause alarm or distress. Away from Clubs, private houses and 'official' or well used naturist venues, we recommend sensible courtesy to anyone who might be upset by nudity.

• We believe that as naturism isn't about sex, it can't be a 'Sexual Offence'.

If someone approaches me for 'swinging', is it all right to say 'No'.

Yes of course it is.  As long as it's legal, what people do in the privacy of their own homes is up to them but, in the Club environment, you shouldn't even be asked to 'swing'.

So isn't a naturist Club just an excuse for 'swinging'?

No, not at all.  Naturism isn't about sex and, if you are into 'swinging', a naturist club isn't the best place to start and there are other avenues you might want to explore.

Overt sexual activity would be frowned on in most naturist clubs so wait until you get home and enjoy sex in private!

I am a male and I'm worried about - you know - getting excited if an attractive lady walks past.

Because naturism isn't a sexual experience, you're no more likely to get an erection at a Club event than when you have a bath or shower. That lady will actually look far more provocative in a skimpy bikini or G-string - unclothed, she will still look attractive but just natural.

You haven't answered the question I really wanted to ask.

Sorry, that's because we didn't think of it.  Please contact us and we'll have a go - the only silly question is the one which isn't asked!

Go on, come and see us. You'll be made very welcome!