A string of remote south-facing beaches from Seatown to Sidmouth beneath the fossil-studded Jurassic coastline cliffs of Lyme Bay in west Dorset.

 Dramatic limestone cliffs, caves and jumps are characteristic features of the Isle of Portland.

 Swimming through Durdle Door archway is a classic wild swimmer’s rite of passage, while Stair Hole lagoons and sea catacombs are a snorkeller’s watery paradise.

 Follow Britain’s only snorkel trail at remote Kimmeridge Ledges where the shallow bay is teeming with amazing underwater wildlife.

 Lounge on hot rocks and pretend you are in the Mediterranean at Dancing Ledge, a man-made rock pool under dramatic cliffs where Ian Fleming learned to swim.

 You can reach tiny old-fashioned Steephill Cove on the Isle of Wight only by foot. Visit the beach shack selling crab sandwiches and walk to Orchard Bay.

 Head for the superb shell-white sands at East Head spit and remote Pilsey Island, a short cycle ride from Chichester.

 Wild Cuckmere Haven was where Virginia Woolf and the rest of the Bloomsbury Group bathed. There are iconic views to the Seven Sisters and access to a little-known walk beneath the cliffs to Beachy Head.

 Eat the best and freshest seafood in Britain at the Company Shed, then swim from the oyster-shell beach at the Mersea Stone.

 Scolt Head Island with its pristine white beaches is accessible only by wading at low tide.