Katie Lindsay Gallery

The Katie Lindsay Gallery sits in Downpatrick, a short drive from several solid caravan parks if you're basing yourself in the area. It's a contemporary art space that focuses on local and emerging artists - the kind of place where you'll find anything from painting and sculpture to photography and mixed media installations. Walk in without expecting blockbuster names and you'll likely leave pleasantly surprised.

This is squarely for people who actually enjoy art rather than ticking off tourist attractions. If you're dragging reluctant teenagers around, they'll probably lose interest after thirty minutes, but anyone with a genuine curiosity about what Northern Irish artists are creating right now will find it worthwhile. The gallery has that intimate feel of a independent-run space - not polished to death, not trying too hard, just good work on the walls.

Downpatrick itself is worth a potter around - medieval streets, decent coffee spots, the Cathedral - so you could easily combine a morning at the gallery with lunch locally. It's convenient if you're staying at Delamont Country Park just down the road, though frankly you could visit on a whim while passing through without needing to plan it into a full day out.

I'd ring ahead before heading over just to confirm current opening hours and what's on, as independent galleries often shift their schedules. Admission details aren't widely listed online, but don't expect to pay much if anything. Worth a twenty-minute look if you're in Downpatrick anyway.