A spring in your step

A Spring in Your Step is a gallery tucked away in Sussex that punches well above its weight. It's the sort of place you stumble upon while exploring Brighton's creative corners - intimate, thoughtfully curated, and genuinely interested in what it shows rather than just filling wall space.

The gallery focuses on contemporary work with a sharp eye for emerging talent. You're not dealing with massive installations or the kind of art that demands three hours of contemplation - these are pieces that reward proper looking but won't exhaust you. The space itself is compact enough that you can work through the whole thing in 45 minutes, though you might linger longer depending on what's on.

It's worth a detour if you're the type who actually reads gallery notes and has opinions about colour theory. Families with older kids who can handle a bit of quiet will find it fine, but toddlers will get restless fast. If you're staying at Pegs and Pitches Camping just up the road, this makes for a proper cultural break from the park routine without needing to drag everyone into central Brighton.

The location matters too - you're close enough to the seafront and the Lanes for a productive afternoon without feeling like you've travelled miles. Check ahead for current exhibitions and opening times before you visit, as galleries like this often have limited hours. Free or paid entry details aren't confirmed, so ring ahead.