[Sundae]

I don't remember any sea off the coast of Britain being anything other than COLD. And I've experienced this across the British Isles.
Excepting the Scilly Isles (approx 30 miles out) which is in a different current and although not exactly balmy, it's possible to paddle in without turning blue. And the waters are crystal clear. But it was still nicer to look at than swim in.

First time I was in the sea past my shoulders was when I went to Cuba.
I had no idea the sea could be a welcoming place.

Merkins come from hardy stock all over the world (well, you got there for a start) but surely the hardiest come from the North East of England.

PS. Bruce - we're actually having an Indian summer, that's not a bad temp!