Get ready to witness a sight that will leave you both amazed and slightly uncomfortable! Londoners are shedding their inhibitions, and their clothes, for the 18th edition of the World Naked Bike Ride happening this June.
Now, for those of you who prefer to keep your clothes on, consider this a public service announcement to shield your eyes. But if you’ve ever had a secret desire to pedal your way through the city in your birthday suit, then mark your calendars for Saturday, June 10 because it’s about to get cheeky on the streets of London.
Photo: AFP/ Leon Neal
Let’s dive into the main event on June 10. Every summer (except for that time in 2020 when the pandemic stole our naked thunder), these brave souls hit the roads in the buff, not just to showcase their glorious birthday suits, but to protest against car culture, challenge our reliance on oil, fight for cyclist rights, and promote body positivity. These people are baring it all for a cause, so wipe that grin off your face, it’s serious stuff… well, mostly.
The cause becomes more urgent with each passing year as London grapples with polluted air and the world’s climate crisis worsens due to our obsession with cars and fossil fuels. In 2023, the World Naked Bike Ride will kick off from nine different meeting points scattered across the city, offering various ride lengths and a route that even first-time nudists can handle. All these naked cyclists will eventually converge in central London, forming an impressive 4km parade of bare skin as they approach Wellington Arch.
Photo: AFP/ Leon Neal
Let’s not even think about the potential chafing issues, shall we? The World Naked Bike Ride participants will make their daring statement by traversing 65km of congested and polluted roads, not to mention conquering fourteen bridges. And guess what? The unpredictable British weather won’t stop them. I suppose cycling naked in the rain gives a whole new meaning to the term “free-spirited.”
Here’s the best part: it won’t cost you a penny to join in on this adventure. While being in your birthday suit is highly encouraged, you can also opt for whatever makes you feel comfortable—expect to see an array of body paint and creative props. (Just remember, keep your clothes on until you reach the rendezvous point, okay?)
So, where does this glorious spectacle begin?
Let me give you a rundown of the starting locations for the London World Naked Bike Ride:
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- Clapham Junction – Grant Road, SW11 2NU – Arrive at 2:30pm for a 2:45pm ride.
- Croydon – 233 Shirley Church Road, CR0 5AB – Arrive at 11am for a 1pm ride (be prepared for the longest route, FYI).
- Deptford – Matchstick Piehouse, SE8 5HD – Arrive at 12pm for a 2pm ride.
- Kew Bridge – North end of Kew Bridge, near W4 3NQ – Arrive at 1:15pm for a 1:30pm ride.
- Regent’s Park – Outer Circle, near NW1 4NA – Arrive at 2:35pm for a 2:50pm ride.
- Tower Hill – Trinity Square Gardens, EC3N 4DJ – Arrive at 1:45pm for a 2:45pm ride.
- Wellington Arch (by Hyde Park Corner) – Apsley Way, London W1J 7JZ – Arrive at 2:15pm for a 2:45pm ride.
- Victoria Park – Near Bonner Gate/Dogs of Alcibiades, E2 9JW – Arrive at 11am for a 1:15pm ride.
- Accessible option – near Waterloo (full location details TBA) – Arrive at 3:45pm for a 4pm ride.
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If you’re planning to join this unique adventure, be sure to follow the World Naked Bike Ride Facebook page for last-minute updates. Otherwise, you might find yourself in an awkward situation—naked, alone, and feeling rather exposed.
Find out more about World Naked Bike Ride at their website.