Above the Tide

Above the Tide is a gallery in Redruth that takes its name seriously - the work here sits well above the everyday commercial art you'll find in most high streets. It's a proper spot for anyone interested in what contemporary makers are actually doing right now, rather than what's been focus-grouped to death.

The space itself feels like someone's converted a decent old building and done it thoughtfully. You'll find paintings, sculpture, and mixed media that changes regularly, so there's a reason to go back. It's not vast - you can move through it in forty minutes if you're just browsing, but linger if something catches you. The kind of place where you actually read the artist statements rather than speed-walk past them.

It works best for adults who actually care about art, or older teenagers who might be considering it seriously. Young kids will get bored within ten minutes. There's no cafe attached, so you'll need to sort refreshments elsewhere in Redruth before or after.

If you're staying at The Secret Garden Glamping or Lanyon Holiday Park nearby, this is a good rainy-afternoon escape that doesn't require an hour's drive. Admission details are thin on the ground, so ring ahead or check when you're in the area. Worth the detour if contemporary work interests you; skip it if you're after a quick cultural tick-box.