Cherry Tree Spire

The Cherry Tree Spire in Cambridge is one of those places that stops you mid-walk. It's a striking modern gallery housed in what was once an industrial space, and the contrast between the raw brick walls and the art inside creates this oddly compelling atmosphere. The spire itself - a tall, angular structure visible from the street - has become something of a landmark for anyone exploring Cambridge's less touristy quarters.

Inside, the gallery rotates contemporary work, everything from sculpture to installations, with a real emphasis on supporting emerging artists. It's intimate rather than grand, which means you'll actually engage with what's on show rather than just wandering through room after room feeling obligated to like things. Most visitors spend between 45 minutes and an hour here, depending on how much the current exhibition grabs you.

This works brilliantly if you're staying at one of the nearby glamping spots - Lodeside or Fen Meadows are both within easy reach - and you want something beyond the college tourist trail. It's not a destination that demands a full morning, but it's absolutely worth combining with a walk along the Cam or a proper look around the city's independent shops. The gallery tends to feel quietest on weekday mornings, which is when you'll actually get to think about the work without crowds breathing down your neck.