Warm Coffee, Open Gardens and the Buzz Before the Ride

It’s that time again! On Saturday, 14th June 2025, I’ll participate in the World Naked Bike Ride in London.

This year, I’m starting the day with friends at Thingy Cafe, 1 Trowbridge Road, E9 5LD. The lovely folk there are opening from 9 am, and yes – they’re happy to serve naked customers. If you fancy good coffee, tasty snacks, and a friendly, relaxed garden to enjoy them in, it’s a brilliant place to gather before the ride.

I’ll be making my way to Tower Hill, where I plan to join the ride this year. It’s only a 30-minute ride from Thingy Cafe, but I like to be at the start a couple of hours early so I can meet up with fellow riders and chat.

Let me tell you – sitting in Tower Gardens, completely naked, chatting with mates, feels incredibly freeing. As a naturist, I’m used to being in spaces out of the way. Often, that means a secluded beach or fenced-off patch of grass. But here, we’re right in the heart of London. It’s bold, open, and beautiful. It’s also surprisingly relaxed.

Something is uplifting about being around others who are just as free. Many riders are trying nudity in public for the first time. You can see the mixture of nerves and excitement. But once the clothes come off, there’s a wave of calm, happiness, and connection. It’s not about shock – it’s about shedding fear, shame and the pressure to “look right”. You just are.

Last year at Tower Gardens, I spotted Lucy Muse recording one of her body positivity videos. She’s done so much to support the nude lifestyle and help people feel good about their bodies. Meeting her in person was an absolute joy – she’s every bit as lovely and encouraging as she seems online.

World Naked Bike Ride London 2025 - Start Locations

Start Location Meeting Point Gather Time Ride Time
Clapham Junction Grant Road, SW11 2NU 14:30 14:45
Croydon 233 Shirley Church Road, CR0 5AB 11:00 13:00
Deptford Piehouse Co-op, Arches 213 & 214, Edward St, SE8 5HD 12:00 14:00
Hackney Wick Thingy Cafe, 1 Trowbridge Rd, E9 5LD 09:00 13:45
Kew Bridge North end of Kew Bridge near W4 3NQ 13:15 13:30
Regents Park Outer Circle, near NW1 4NA 14:35 14:50
Tower Hill Trinity Square Gardens, EC3N 4DJ 13:45 14:45
Wellington Arch Wellington Arch, Hyde Park Corner W1J 7JZ 14:15 14:45
Accessible Option SE1 7GQ 14:15 14:45
AfterParty
Candid Arts, Torrens St, EC1V 1NQ near Angel Tube Station 15:15 15:15

 

Where to Start, Where to Finish and Everything in Between

If you’re unsure where to start, you can go with the easiest one to get to. Tower Hill works well for me. The location is lovely, and there’s a great buzz in the lead-up to the ride.

As for the after party, it’s at Candid Arts near Angel Tube. It runs from 6 to 11 pm and usually draws a good crowd of happy, glowing cyclists. Everyone’s relaxed and riding high from the day’s joy and connection. If you’re up for it, I’d recommend popping along.

I’ve also joined the informal ride back to Clapham Junction in the past. It’s a nice wind-down after the main event and gives people a chance to ride together in a more chilled-out way: no rush, just laughter, chats and soft evening light.

Looking ahead, the weather forecast looks promising. Long-range predictions say warm and dry, which is perfect. Sunshine always adds an extra layer of sparkle to the ride. But even if it’s a bit grey, spirits are never dampened. We make our own sunshine, honestly.

So if you’re thinking about it, come along. Whether you’re a seasoned naturist or simply curious, the World Naked Bike Ride is one of the most positive, accepting spaces I’ve ever experienced.

Why We Ride: Joy, Body Confidence, and Community

We ride to promote body freedom, oppose car culture, and celebrate the simple joy of moving through the world as we are. There’s no judgment—just support, smiles, and a powerful sense of togetherness.

It’s about making a statement – yes, but also about reclaiming your body and space. And sometimes it’s just about having a brilliant day out with clever people.

If you see me at Tower Gardens, do say hello! I’ll likely be in the gardens early, chatting, laughing and loving life in the open air.

Whatever starting point you choose, I hope you have a fantastic day. It’s truly something special. Get more information about this year’s London WNBR here.

Happy riding, and see you out there!