Blackfriars Theatre & Arts Centre

Walking into Blackfriars in Boston feels like stepping into proper theatre land - all exposed brick, Victorian bones, and the kind of intimate atmosphere you only get in independent venues. It's a working arts centre in a converted medieval friary, which means you're literally performing Shakespeare in a 900-year-old building. The main theatre holds around 150 seats, tight enough that you feel genuinely connected to whoever's on stage.

What you'll actually do here depends on when you visit. There's a regular programme of theatre, comedy, live music, and cinema screenings - nothing you couldn't find elsewhere, but the venue itself is the star. The art gallery upstairs showcases local and touring exhibitions. Between shows, it's worth a wander to appreciate the architecture and read about its history. Count on 45 minutes minimum if you're just poking around; add another hour or two if you catch a performance.

This works brilliantly as an evening activity if you're staying at Orchard Holiday Park or Appletree Holiday Park - both are within easy reach. The venue pulls in a genuine crowd of locals and visiting theatre-goers, which gives Boston's cultural scene a welcome shot in the arm. Check their website for what's on before you book your park break. It's not a rainy-day babysitter attraction for kids, but anyone who appreciates live performance will find something worth their time.