The Human Burrow

Art carved directly into a hillside sounds like the sort of thing that might be a bit pretentious, but The Human Burrow actually works. It's an underground gallery space near Hexham in Northumberland - basically a tunnel dug into the earth with artworks and installations embedded into the walls themselves. You walk through in near-darkness, which sounds gimmicky until you realise it forces you to pay attention to each piece in a way you wouldn't in a conventional gallery.

The experience is genuinely unsettling in the best way. The confined space, the earth pressing in on you, the minimal lighting - it all adds something to whatever's on display. It's not for everyone, mind you. If you've got claustrophobia, you'll want to skip it. Young children might find it a bit creepy, though older kids who like odd things will probably be fascinated.

It's free entry, which is generous given the thought that's gone into it. You don't need long - maybe 20 to 30 minutes depending on how much you read into each piece. Best visited on a weekday if you value peace and quiet.

If you're staying at Kielder Waterside and Lodges or Landal Kielder Waterside - both practically on the doorstep - this makes a good half-hour diversion on a rainy afternoon. The nearby Kielder Campsite is further out, but still within easy driving distance. Pair it with a walk around Kielder Water itself, and you've got a decent day sorted.