Aftermath

Aftermath is a contemporary art gallery in Leicestershire that takes itself seriously - and honestly, it's refreshing to find a space that doesn't apologize for showing challenging work. Located near Loughborough, it's the kind of place you stumble into expecting one thing and leave having thought about something completely different.

The gallery focuses on modern and contemporary pieces, with rotating exhibitions that tend towards the thought-provoking rather than the decorative. You won't find pastel landscapes here. Instead, expect installations, photography, and conceptual work that asks questions rather than providing answers. A visit typically takes between 45 minutes to two hours depending on how deeply you want to engage with each piece.

It works best for adults and older teenagers with genuine interest in contemporary art - not a crowd-pleaser for families with young kids looking for pretty things to look at. If you're into art theory, emerging artists, or just fancy something that'll give you something to discuss over dinner, it's worth the detour from Loughborough.

If you're basing yourself at one of the nearby camps - Proctors Park, High Meadows Farm, or Midshires Way Campsite - Aftermath makes a solid afternoon addition to a broader cultural visit. Pair it with other attractions in the East Midlands rather than planning your entire trip around it. Do check their website or ring ahead for current opening hours and admission prices, as independent galleries can be a bit fluid with their schedules.