10 great no-cost garden getaways

Taking a thrifty staycation or short-haul break this year? Then be sure to plan in a visit to one of these fantastic, free-entry gardens

- 

Whether you like to plan your holidays around gardens to visit, or just want to fit in a day out to one during your break, it is always helpful to know in advance about places where you don't need to book or pay entry fees. Not only is it easier to organise and change plans at short notice, but you'll also be leaving more in your holiday budget to enjoy doing other things.

From small gardens to large parks, we've done the hard work to show there is plenty to see without the need to splash out. Read on for our pick of the UK and Europe's best free-entry gardens and green spaces - all of them brimming with gardening inspiration.

Italian Gardens, Kensington Gardens, London

Find serenity in central London at the Italian Gardens, which are situated within Kensington Gardens in Hyde Park. The entrance can be found near Lancaster Gate at the north of the grounds.

The 150-year-old Italian Gardens is believed to have been created as a gift to Queen Victoria by Prince Albert, who was a keen gardener. The elaborate water feature displays four main basins surrounded by ornate statues and urns. Film fans will recognise the fountain as the one that Hugh Grant and Colin Firth fell into during a tussle in Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason. You can take shelter in Queen Anne's Alcove, a folly designed by Christopher Wren and described as the 'poshest park bench in London', and enjoy lunch on the café terrace. During the summer months, ice creams are sold from vintage Rolls Royce vans and deckchairs can be rented at Buck Hill, which is adjacent to the garden and looks over the ponds.

Open From 6am every day. Closing times vary, so check the website Find out more bit.ly/ken-gdn Get there D KISZO

Sheffield Botanical Gardens, Sheffield