As temperatures soar, few things are more appealing than the idea of slipping into clear, bracing seawater. The only problem? The rest of the country has the same idea.
So make way for our pick of some of the loveliest secluded swimming spots, from hidden coves to wide, wild bays. Just don’t be surprised if you find you’re sharing the water with a seal or two…
Cley Beach, Norfolk
"If you're willing to wade across a loamy riverbed (donning a pair of muddy knee-highs as you do), the walk across Blakeney’s salt marshes to the quiet end of Cley Beach is richly rewarding,” reveals Country Living's homes writer Mandy Ando. “Once there, rinse off the mud in the cool waters of the North Sea, while little terns dive for glimmering fish all around you. On my most recent visit, I was joined by a cheeky seal, who was relishing the peace and seclusion just as much as I was."
Barricane Beach, Devon
Smaller than neighbouring Woolacombe and tucked into the rocks, Barricane feels like a bit of a find, especially later in the day. Keep an eye out for the tiny cowrie shells said to wash up here on the Gulf Stream.
East Head, West Sussex
Escape the crowds of West Wittering at this Site of Special Scientific interest where sea bindweed, sea holly and lyme grass thrive in the summer.
Abermawr, Pembrokeshire
Hidden at the end of a wooded valley, Abermawr has a wonderfully away-from-it-all feel. The shore is pebbly and driftwood-strewn rather than polished, but that only adds to its wild charm.
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Portheras Cove, Cornwall
Reached on foot near Pendeen, this small cove sits below cliffs and old mining country, which gives it a distinctly hidden-away feel. Ideal for a quick dip, a lungful of sea air and cooling moment of calm.
Titchwell, Norfolk
Better known for birdwatching than bathing, Titchwell makes a lovely choice if you like your sea swims with a side of big skies and salt marsh. Bring your binoculars too: avocets, godwits and oystercatchers are all part of the scene.
Camas Daraich, Skye
Pale sand – tick. Clear water – tick. Off the beaten track – tick. This walk-in cove on the Sleat peninsula is what scorching hot days were made for.
Sandwood Bay, Sutherland
The four-mile walk from the car park is exactly what keeps Sandwood Bay feeling so special. And after all that space, sea and sky, the swim at the end feels even better — cold, clear and completely exhilarating.
Llanlleiana Cove, Anglesey
On Anglesey’s northern edge, this pebbly cove sits beneath an old quarry and ruined chapel, giving it a wonderfully far-flung feel. It takes a little effort to reach, but that’s part of what keeps it so special.
Mwnt, Ceredigion
Reached by a single-track lane and a steep path, this small cove feels pleasingly tucked away despite being well loved. On a calm day, it’s a beautiful place for a swim, with the chance of spotting dolphins or seals just offshore.
Cable Bay, Anglesey
Smaller and less showy than some of Anglesey’s better-known beaches, Cable Bay has an easy, understated charm. It’s a lovely spot for a cooling dip followed by a clifftop walk.
Watcombe Bay, Devon
Reached on foot and backed by red cliffs, Watcombe Bay feels more tucked away than the busier beaches around Torbay. Small, dramatic and full of character, it’s a lovely place to cool off.
Murlough Bay, County Antrim
Reached by a steep, winding road, Murlough Bay feels deliciously off the beaten track. The shoreline is rugged rather than sandy, but for a wild swim in dramatic surroundings, it’s hard to beat.
Garraidh Ghorm, Isle of Lewis
Remote even by Hebridean standards, this little cove offers clear water, rocky edges and a deep sense of peace. If you’re after a swim somewhere that feels properly far from it all, this is the one.
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