Apollo Theatre

Theatre buffs will find themselves in for a treat at this intimate venue right in the heart of Newport. The Apollo Theatre operates as a proper community playhouse, staging everything from amateur dramatics to touring productions throughout the year. What strikes you first is how genuinely local it feels - this isn't some slick West End operation but a real grassroots theatre where islanders come to watch and perform.

Families might find it hit or miss depending on what's on. The Christmas pantomimes are reliably good fun for kids, but much of the programme skews towards adult audiences. Check their website before planning your evening as the schedule varies wildly - one week might feature a serious drama, the next a comedy revue.

Being based in Newport puts you well within reach of several holiday parks. The Yurts at Burnt House Farm and Springfield Oaks Camping are both under two miles away, making an evening show perfectly doable without a long drive back. It's worth noting that parking in Newport town centre can be a bit tricky on show nights, so allow extra time.

The Apollo won't revolutionise your holiday, but if you fancy a proper night out away from the beach and theme parks, it delivers exactly what a small island theatre should.