Chalk's Art Gallery

The gallery sits quietly in Lymington, a proper working artist's space rather than some grand museum experience. What you're walking into is someone's actual creative world - local art, often contemporary work from emerging names, displayed in an intimate setting that feels more living room than institutional. You'll see paintings, sculptures, sometimes installations that change with the season.

It's ideal for art enthusiasts who want something genuine, not a tourist box-ticking exercise. Families with older kids interested in seeing real artists' work will get something out of it, though younger children may lose interest quickly if there's no interactive element on the day you visit. The space isn't massive, so allow 45 minutes to an hour unless you're genuinely stopping to chat with whoever's there.

Lymington itself is worth a wander - it's got character as a sailing town, with a proper high street and the New Forest virtually on your doorstep. If you're camping at any of the parks nearby - Lytton Lawn is just 2 miles away, or Shorefield Country Park at 3.4 miles - this makes an easy morning visit before heading out to forest walks or the water.

Bit of a gamble admission-wise since we haven't got confirmed opening hours or entry details, so ring ahead before making the trip. Worth doing though if you're staying local and want something low-key and genuine.