While a day at the beach is a summer tradition, the winter months can also be a lovely time to explore Britain's coasts. Wrap up against the elements and you can enjoy almost-empty beaches and fresh sea air any time of year.

One spot that's particularly beautiful in the cold months is Lulworth Cove in Dorset, a shell-shaped beach that sits along the spectacular Jurassic Coast. It's a short walk along the coast from Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch that's one of Dorset's most iconic landmarks. In the summer, it's often packed with families enjoying walks along the pebbly shore and swimming in the turquoise seas, so off-season is a great time to visit.

Lulworth Cove is also where you'll find the Saltwater Sauna, a Nordic-style wooden building that's right on the sea's shore. It was recently named one of Britain's 10 most scenic saunas by The Times thanks to its position on the shingle beach.

The sauna seats eight and has a huge window so you can enjoy the sea views while you relax. Communal sessions cost from £15 for 65 minutes, and include access to a hot spring water shower and changing rooms. You can also use the sea ladder for a cold water plunge afterwards if you're feeling brave.

Lulworth Cove is popular for swimming year-round thanks to its sheltered bay, which means the sea is usually calm and safe for taking a dip. However, always be on the lookout for danger signs and pay attention to tide times.

The clear blue water is clean and inviting, and you'll often see people snorkelling and even scuba diving around the area. Winter is no exception. Wild swimmers often take to the beach during the cold months for a scenic dip. If you're not an experienced wild swimmer, you can book a guided swim with a professional who'll help you enjoy the waters safely and show you where the hazards lie.

At low tide, large rockpools are exposed where you'll find creatures from crabs to starfish and anemones hiding. You'll often see kids wearing wellies brandishing nets looking to catch crustaceans in buckets.

The cove has a cosy café where you can enjoy a cuppa after a cold water swim, or a short walk up the road there's The Lulworth Cove Inn, a charming local pub where you can enjoy a pint and some fish and chips. It even has a pub garden with a sea view for when summer finally comes around.

Lulworth is a small village where you'll see thatched cottages, ice cream parlours, and a couple of little gift shops. It's also worth taking some time to explore Lulworth Visitor Centre, which has displays about local fossil and dinosaur finds as well as the geological features of the area.

In addition to the beach, many people visit to climb Hambury Tout Steps, part of the South West Coastal Path. There's a looped trail of just under four miles that includes incredible clifftop views and scenery around Durdle Door.

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