Sliding Hill

The name tells you most of what you need to know - it's a slope in Dorset that's steep enough to make sliding down it genuinely possible when conditions are right. Located just outside Bridport, Sliding Hill is a proper little spot for walkers and families who fancy something with a bit of character, though I'd be straight with you: it's not a major attraction that'll eat up half your day.

What you get is a decent hillside with decent views across the surrounding countryside. The walk up isn't grueling, and there's something satisfying about reaching the top and seeing how far you can actually see on a clear day. Kids find the idea of sliding down it amusing, though whether the slope's actually slidable depends entirely on weather and ground conditions - after rain or frost it might genuinely work, but on a dry summer day you're just walking down steep grass.

It works best as part of a wider walk rather than a destination in itself. Bridport's close by with proper shops and cafes, so you could make a morning of it. If you're staying at any of the nearby parks - The Dorset Hideaway is barely a couple of miles away, or Seadown and Golden Cap if you want something closer to the coast - Sliding Hill makes a good half-hour detour without any real commitment.

No idea about fees or formal opening hours because there aren't any - it's just a hill you walk up. Wear proper boots if the ground's wet, and go early if you want any peace.