The Farne Islands are well known for their seabirds – especially the puffin population. Under the waves, there’s another attraction for wildlife watchers. Alison Dando of BSAC describes the appeal: “The waters here are heaving with underwater life, but the star act has to be the grey seals. It’s such an amazing experience to swim with these magnificent creatures who will interact and play with you, coming up close to nip your fins and weave in and out of your air bubbles. I would recommend it to everyone.”

Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly are as close as Britain gets to having picture postcard tropical islands. If you’re still searching for an excuse to visit, pack your wetsuit and make the most of these unspoilt waters which are well known for their good levels of visibility. There are well over 100 dive sites, and highlights include a lifetime’s supply of wrecks to explore and a possible encounter with the playful local seals.

Bowleaze Cove, Weymouth, Dorset

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At the eastern end of Weymouth Bay, Bowleaze Cove is a fairly standard stretch of sand. However, it’s definitely worth a visit with your snorkel and fins. You can stroll right into an underwater adventure, just a few metres out from the shore. There’s a large natural underwater garden with a mini-forest of fern-like plants extending dramatically from the sandy floor below and swaying lazily along the waves. Also, keep your eyes peeled for wrasse, sea bass and pipefish darting between the rocks.

Drawna Rock, Porthkerris, Cornwall

Freediving instructor, Sam Kirby (no relation) recommends her favourite snorkelling spot: “My first ever real look beneath the surface was at Drawna Rock and it remains a favourite. Stay inside the rocks and swim around in the wrasse pool, spot mini-versions of monkfish, pollock in the "nursery" and keep your eyes peeled for cuttle-fish or octopus. Venture outside and you might just spot a sea bass, giant jellyfish, a seal or even a sunfish. Easily accessible by car, you can just park on the beach at Porthkerris and walk in.”

Boscombe, Bournemouth

A snorkelling destination currently under construction is the artificial surf reef being built at Boscombe this summer. Although designed to keep the surfers happy, the reef is also tipped to become a haven for sea life and corals. At a maximum depth of six metres, the reef will be relatively accessible too.

Need to know

Both the British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) and the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) offer a wide range of diving courses for both children and adults, and to snorkel you’ll just need a mask and fins. However, always seek expert tuition and follow safety advice. To find a local accredited diving centre visit: www.bsac.org or www.padi.com and to learn more about freediving contact Saltfree Divers at: www.saltfreedivers.com

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