1. Fingal's Cave, Scotland
This stunning basalt column formation on the uninhabited Scottish island of Staffa is a magical spot to take a dip. Various cruise and charter companies offer trips to Staffa from the mainland, and it's well worth the day out.
2. Treyarnon Bay, England
The secluded and breathtaking beach at Treyarnon in Cornwall offers a lovely swimming cove and even more contained rock pools, perfect for swimming with younger children, or floating with a stunning view of the actual shoreline.
3. Porth Chapel, England
This lovely low-tide beach in St Agnes is the ideal spot to spend a day of secluded sunbathing. Spend some time laid out on the sand and splashing in the clear blue sea, then take a picnic lunch to higher ground for a lovely view.
4. Port Gaverne, England
There's no shortage of picturesque swimming spots in Cornwall, but Port Gaverne surely offers one of the best. With rock pools and tiny coves to explore, the northern Cornwall inlet is the perfect place to cool off.
5. Nanjizal Bay, England
This remote beach is the perfect place to swim away from the crowds. The lovely shallow pools are great for wading, and it's a smart spot for seal watching as well.
6. Ceibwr Bay, Wales
This calm and private swimming cove is a must for curious explorers, and just a mile's walk from the unique Witches Cauldron rock formation.
7. Croyde Bay, England
Whether you're keen to surf or stay close to the shore exploring rock pools and secluded swimming spots, Croyde Bay is a lovely place to head out to sea for a day. Near the edge of the bay, you'll find the Baggy Point Caves, where you can swim and explore in shade.
8. Fairy Pools, Scotland
These insanely lovely pools on the Isle of Skye must be on your wild swimming bucket list. Waterfalls and stunningly clear water make it a great spot to for wading and splashing, and it's perfect for photos.
9. Stair Hole, England
The hidden coves at Lulworth are a positively unique and gorgeous spot for some relaxed wild swimming. The secluded swimming hole is tucked away from the main shore, but still offers access to the sea if you start to tire of being a big fish in a little pond.
10. Porty Yr Ogof, Wales
Swim in these spooky caves at Wales Brecon Beacons National Park for a unique and solitary dip.
11. Kynance Cove, England
This National Trust protected beach is a true gem of the Cornish coast. With sandy beach sandwiched between the ocean and a small pool, there's plenty of opportunity to swim and lay out under the sun.
12. Birling Gap, England
If you fancy some surfing, this stunning beach in East Dean is a brilliant spot for catching waves, plus there's plenty of space for sunbathing and lots of rock pools to explore and have a relaxed swim.
13. Thornwick Bay, England
For prime swimming on the Yorkshire coast, plan a day on the beach of Thornwick, where you can snorkel, explore caves, and have a leisurely float in the secluded bay.
14. Porth Wen, Wales
Swim among the ruins of the Porth Wen Brickworks at this unique cove. Spooky and mysterious, the site is the perfect place for a peaceful and memorable day on the water.
15. Abereiddy Blue Lagoon, Wales
Abereiddy beach is a lovely and quiet rural swimming spot, and just a bit north of the beach you'll find the stunning "blue lagoon" harbour for an even more private and unique experience.
16. Plodda Falls, Scotland
This stunning hidden waterfall and pool near Tomich is the perfect spot for a peaceful swim and communion with nature. The hike there is just as lovely as the destination.
Suggestions inspired by Wild Swimming by Daniel Start. Get it for £16.99 from Wild Things Publishing.