Companion Stone 2

You'll find Companion Stone 2 tucked away in Derbyshire's countryside, a proper working gallery that takes contemporary art seriously without the pretension. It's not some vast institution - more an intimate space where the work actually gets room to breathe, and you can have a proper conversation with the artist if you're lucky.

The gallery itself focuses on contemporary pieces, and there's a real sense that someone's made thoughtful choices about what hangs on these walls. Depending on what's on when you visit, you might see sculpture, painting, or installation work. It's the sort of place where you'll spend longer than you expected because something catches you off guard.

For art types doing a Derbyshire loop, it's worth the detour. History buffs heading to Chatsworth won't find much to keep them, but if you're staying at North Lees Campsite or Secret Wood Glamping nearby, it's easily combined with a walk in the hills. You're also close enough to Sheffield that it works as a morning or afternoon stop. Allow a good hour to properly look around without rushing.

Practical advice: contact them ahead - opening hours and admission fees aren't widely advertised, and you'll want to know what's currently on show. It's the kind of place that rewards a bit of planning. If you're camping in the area and fancy something more lowkey than the big tourist attractions, this fits the bill perfectly.