'a space' arts

A Space Arts sits just outside Southampton and punches well above its weight as a contemporary gallery. You'll find working artist studios, exhibition spaces, and the kind of creative energy that makes you wish you'd stayed longer. It's the sort of place where you might catch someone actually making something rather than just looking at finished work behind velvet ropes.

The setup works brilliantly if you're staying at one of the nearby caravan parks - Sunnydale Farm is barely three miles away, and Mercury Holiday Park not much further. Pop in for an hour or make an afternoon of it, depending on what's on. The gallery tends to attract proper art types and families with older kids who can handle a bit of independent exploration. Younger children will get restless quickly unless there's a hands-on workshop running.

Access is straightforward from Southampton if you're based in the area. The real strength here is that it feels genuinely alive rather than corporate - you're supporting actual artists rather than feeding a massive institution. Check what exhibitions are running before you visit, as the programme changes regularly and some shows will appeal far more than others. If you're combining a caravan holiday in the New Forest area with cultural bits and pieces, this beats a wet-weather trek into town. Worth the short drive if contemporary art genuinely interests you.