Blondes Fine Art

Art galleries tucked away in the Hertfordshire countryside don't always announce themselves loudly, and Blondes Fine Art is no exception. Located just outside Ware, it's the sort of place you stumble upon rather than plan for - which is precisely what makes it worth the detour.

The gallery itself focuses on contemporary fine art, with an emphasis on painting and sculpture. Work rotates seasonally, so what you'll see depends entirely on when you visit. It's a proper working space rather than a grand institution, which means the atmosphere feels more intimate than you'd get at a bigger regional gallery. Staff tend to be chatty about the pieces on show, and you won't feel rushed through in an hour.

This is ideal for anyone serious about art - painters, sculptors, collectors - rather than families hoping for a quick culture fix. Kids will likely get restless unless they're genuinely interested. Allow an hour, maybe ninety minutes if the current exhibition catches your eye.

Since opening times and admission charges aren't always publicised, it's worth ringing ahead or checking their website before you make the trip from your holiday park. Toad Abode is practically on the doorstep at just 0.3 miles away, making it dead convenient if you're staying locally. The wild retreat at Redricks Lake, three miles further on, offers a quieter base for exploring the area. Ware itself is a working market town with decent pubs and a riverside walk if you want to stretch your legs after browsing.