Location
United Kingdom
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Families and adults
Best season
June to September
About Atherfield Point
Atherfield Point is on the south-west coast of the Isle of Wight, at the southern end of Brighstone Bay below the village of Atherfield. British Naturism's beach directory lists the stretch between Shepherd's Chine and Atherfield Point as used by naturists. This is a remote, eroding shoreline under cliffs, cut by chines (steep ravines) that lead down to the beach; Shepherd's Chine is one of the largest on the island. There are no facilities. BN warns that some cliff paths may be in poor repair or need scrambling, and that tides and currents should be checked before going.
Getting there
Access is by cliff path. A footpath of about 500 m runs down Shepherd's Chine to the beach just north of Atherfield Point; from the bottom, the naturist stretch lies between the chine and the point. Some paths may be damaged by erosion and need scrambling, so wear sturdy footwear. There are no facilities and no wheelchair access.
Legal context
There is no official designation. Nudity in England is lawful unless intended to cause alarm or distress.
Naturism at Atherfield Point sits under United Kingdom's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: United Kingdom public nudity guide.
Naturist status confirmed against an official source on 24 October 2026.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 50.6149, -1.3676
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
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Frequently asked questions
Where is the naturist area?
Between Shepherd's Chine and Atherfield Point on the south-west coast of the Isle of Wight.
How do I get down to the beach?
By cliff path, for example the path down Shepherd's Chine; some paths are eroded and may need scrambling.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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