Our verdict
The easy, family-friendly end of Lodmoor: hard paths, facilities, dogs off lead. If you want the reedbeds and birds rather than the funfair feel, head into the RSPB side instead.
The Dorset Council-run country park wrapped around the western and southern edges of the Lodmoor wetlands, with cafés, play areas and a flat 2km circuit close to Weymouth seafront. It sits alongside — but is managed separately from — the RSPB reserve on the marsh itself.
Country park — managed for visitors, usually with parking and trails.