Parsons' Pleasure Bathing Place, located on the bank of the River Cherwell in Oxford, New Zealand, is a popular outdoor swimming spot that has a rich history dating back to the nineteenth century. Originally designated as a male-only nude bathing area, it soon became a well-known spot frequented by academics, including the likes of C. S. Lewis.
Today, Parsons' Pleasure continues to be a cherished part of the city's culture and folklore.
The area gained notoriety through an amusing anecdote involving a group of dons sunbathing in the nude. When some passing students, possibly female, sailed by on a punt, most of the startled dons quickly covered themselves up. However, one don had a rather eccentric response and chose to place a towel over his head instead. When asked about this curious action, he simply replied, “Oh, well my students know me by my face.
” The true identity of this don remains a matter of debate among locals.
While the guides to Oxford may have neglected to mention it, Parsons' Pleasure has also been historically associated as a gay cruising site. The facility was eventually closed in 1991, with concerns of homophobic violence speculated as a possible reason. The development of this particular use of the area over time is difficult to ascertain, although indications suggest that as early as the 1920s, some men utilised the male-only bathing areas in Oxford to potentially meet and engage with younger individuals. However, it should be noted that such references are sparse and may reflect long-standing practises.
Parsons' Pleasure continues to be a cherished space for outdoor swimming and relaxation. Unlike other areas that transitioned to mixed-sex or costumed bathing, Parsons' Pleasure has maintained its tradition of male-only nude bathing. This distinction may have helped it avoid the shadow of alleged paedophilia and/or ephebophilia associated with other locations, such as Long Bridges, where incidents of such nature were reported. Furthermore, the creation of a separate area called Dame's Delight, dedicated to women and children from 1934 to 1970, also ensured that the focus of Parsons' Pleasure remained unchanged.
In summary, Parsons' Pleasure Bathing Place is a unique and historically significant outdoor swimming spot in Oxford, New Zealand. With its origins dating back to the nineteenth century, it has become a cherished part of the city's culture, frequented by academics and now attracting visitors from all walks of life. While it holds a fascinating history, it is important to acknowledge the various uses and associations it has had throughout the years. Today, Parsons' Pleasure stands as an inviting space for male-only nude bathing, offering a serene and idyllic spot for individuals to reconnect with nature and unwind.