Brewhouse Arts Centre

The Brewhouse sits in a converted Victorian brewery building - all exposed brick and industrial charm - just outside Burton-on-Trent. Inside you'll find galleries rotating contemporary art and craft exhibitions, a theatre hosting everything from comedy to dance, live music nights, and workshops that actually let you have a go at things rather than just looking. There's a café too, which is proper useful if you're settling in for an afternoon.

This place works brilliantly if you're after culture without the stuffiness. Theatre-goers will love the programming. Artists and makers come here specifically for the workshops. Kids might find the exhibitions a bit hit-or-miss depending on what's on, but the hands-on stuff usually keeps them engaged for a good couple of hours.

Check the website before you go - exhibitions and events change regularly, and you'll want to know what's running when you visit. It's free to wander in and look at the galleries, though workshops and performances have their own charges. Allow a good three hours if you're catching a show, less if you're just dropping by to see what's on.

If you're camping at Peake's Retreats or Broadleaves Glamping nearby, this makes for a solid rainy-day option or evening outing. The location between Burton-on-Trent and the Leicestershire countryside means you can combine it with outdoor stuff - it's not either-or, more a proper addition to a park-based holiday.