Blandscliff Gallery & Open Studio

The studio sits in that proper bit of North Yorkshire where the coast starts getting interesting - close enough to Scarborough to pop in on a rainy afternoon, far enough away to feel like you've actually gone somewhere. Blandscliff Gallery is a working artist space, which means you're not just looking at finished pieces behind glass; you're genuinely in someone's creative territory.

What you get is contemporary work displayed across an open studio setup. The appeal depends entirely on what's on when you visit - it's not a vast, intimidating space with room after room to trudge through. Probably takes thirty minutes to an hour properly, unless you're the type who strikes up a conversation with the artist, in which case you could easily spend twice that.

It works brilliantly if you're based at one of the caravan parks dotted around - Parkdean at Cayton Bay or Prospect House Farm are minutes away - and fancy something different from the usual seaside routine. Art enthusiasts will get the most from it, but honestly, anyone tired of arcades and fish and chips shops will appreciate the change of pace.

The main thing to check before heading out: opening hours and whether admission's free or ticketed. Ring ahead or check online - these independent spaces don't always keep predictable schedules, especially during winter months. Worth doing if you're camping nearby and the weather's turned.