VINCENT G BARLOW

The Vincent G Barlow gallery sits just outside Southampton, a proper little art space that punches above its weight. It's the sort of place locals know about but most visitors miss entirely, which is a shame because the work on display rotates regularly enough to justify multiple visits if you're staying in the area.

The gallery itself is modest in scale - you won't spend hours here, realistically thirty minutes to an hour depending on what's showing - but that's not a weakness. The exhibitions lean towards contemporary work and established artists, so it's well worth the detour if you're into visual art at all. The space has real character without feeling pretentious, which is harder to pull off than it sounds.

If you're camped at Dibles Park Caravan Park, you're barely half a mile away, making this an ideal rainy-day option or an evening outing when the light's going. Solent Breezes Holiday Park is equally close at a mile. It works particularly well for adults who want something cultural without the National Gallery crowds, though teenagers interested in art will appreciate it far more than younger children.

Practically speaking, I'd ring ahead before visiting - opening hours aren't widely advertised online, and admission details are equally vague. It's the kind of independent gallery that operates on its own terms. Well worth the phone call though, especially if you're planning a week near the Solent. The surrounding area has plenty of coastal walks to balance out indoor time.