City Arts Newbury

City Arts sits bang in the middle of Newbury, a contemporary arts venue that punches above its weight for a market town. The building itself is worth stopping by - all clean lines and modern glass, the sort of place that makes you think Newbury's actually got some cultural ambition. Inside you'll find rotating exhibitions, often featuring local and emerging artists, plus the occasional theatre production and live music event. It's not the Tate, but it doesn't pretend to be.

This is really for people who actually engage with art rather than those ticking off attractions. If you're into contemporary stuff, you'll find something worth an hour or two. Families with teenagers who aren't completely switched off by culture might get something from it; younger kids will probably find it a bit dull. The town itself - Newbury proper - has decent enough high street shops and pubs if you're making a day of it.

Stay at one of the nearby parks and you've got a proper base for exploring the area. Cherry Bird Country Park is barely two miles away, or head to Bishops Green Farm Campsite if you want something a touch more rural. Rhodeside is the Caravan Club option and honestly well-regarded. From any of these, City Arts is a quick hop into town if the weather turns grim and you need an indoor option. Worth knowing about, but don't plan your holiday around it.