Beaches call for other considerations, the main one being just why you're there. Most U.K. beaches are not only inaccessible but also often closed to vehicles. In one short stretch of beach, the sand can vary enormously from soft and power sapping to firm. The worst problem is getting caught by a rising tide, should you sink up to your chassis.

Another problem on many beaches is shingle. The rounded shingle just falls away from under the tyres and it is imperative that you don't allow the tyres to spin. Driving in such conditions requires using the highest possible gear with the least number of engine revs.

Salt-water can ruin the chassis and everything made of metal under the vehicle. It might seem fun at the time, but mark my words, you will pay for it later in the rust it causes, the bushes that sieze and the electrics that give up the ghost.

Next part, I'll continue this series with everyone's favourite pastime - wading.

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