CasildART Contemporary

Contemporary art in Northamptonshire isn't what you'd expect, but CasildART pulls it off without the stuffiness of bigger galleries. It's a working space where you can actually see artists in action, which makes the whole experience feel less like you're trailing through a museum and more like you've stumbled into someone's creative world. The gallery focuses on contemporary work - paintings, installations, sculpture - and the rotating exhibitions mean there's usually something different on each season.

You'll get the most out of this if you're genuinely interested in modern art rather than just ticking off attractions. It's the sort of place that rewards a proper look rather than a quick wander, though you won't need more than 90 minutes even if you're thorough. Entry details are worth checking ahead of your visit - gallery websites in smaller towns aren't always bang up to date.

For a park holiday based around Northampton's caravan sites like Billing Aquadrome or Riverview Park, this gives you something to do on an indoor day without heading into the town centre proper. It's close enough - just a few miles out - that it's a genuine option alongside the usual park attractions. The creative focus makes it particularly good if you're travelling with older teenagers or adults who appreciate independent galleries over commercial attractions. Well worth a look if you're in the area and want something a bit different.