4 genuinely free places in and around Poole, Dorset — each with an honest receipt for what the day really costs once parking and lunch are counted.
A Victorian park wrapped around a saltwater lagoon, with the miniature railway, swan pedalos, play areas and open lawns.
Free on-park parking (2hr) plus overflow at Whitecliff
A working quayside on the world's second-largest natural harbour — watch the boats, walk to the old town, and catch summer fireworks.
Quay-side car parks from £1.80/hr
140 acres of parkland, walled gardens and shoreline on Holes Bay, with waymarked trails and a Grade II listed house at its heart.
Pay-and-display £1.50/hr (free for 30 min)
One of the UK's most famous beaches — fine pale sand, calm water and the Studland chain-ferry at the far end of the spit.
Sandbanks car park is pricey: ~£3.20/hr in peak season