Victoria Gardens, Portland

The flat expanse of Portland's Victoria Gardens gives you proper views across the Fleet - that strange lagoon trapped between the mainland and Chesil Beach. It's a nature reserve, so you're here for birds and plants rather than manicured flowerbeds, which means it can feel a bit sparse if you're expecting Victorian bandstands and rose gardens.

Walkers and birdwatchers will get the most from it. The trails are gentle and well-managed, taking you through reed beds and scrubby vegetation where you might spot avocets, redshanks, or if you're lucky, rarer waders. Bring binoculars. Summer's busy with nesting birds, so early morning visits are best if you want to avoid crowds - though honestly, it doesn't get rammed. Winter transforms the place into something quieter and more contemplative.

Allow an hour or so unless you're serious about the birdwatching. There's a visitor centre with basic facilities and information, and it's free to wander the reserve itself. The path can be muddy after rain, so plan accordingly.

It sits well within a Dorset coast break. You're only 2 miles from Chiswell, and Chesil Beach Holiday Park is practically on your doorstep if you're staying at Waterside or one of the other parks dotted along the coast. Combine it with a walk along Chesil Beach itself - the shingle is relentless, mind you - and you've got a solid morning sorted without spending a penny. Worth the detour if you're into natural history. Less so if you need somewhere to keep the kids entertained for hours.