Colchester Gallery

The Gallery sits in the heart of Colchester, Essex's Roman town, and it's a straightforward affair - contemporary art in a modern setting. You're looking at rotating exhibitions that lean toward contemporary work, sculpture, and installations. It's the sort of place where you'll spend an hour, maybe ninety minutes if something grabs you. Not a vast collection, but the space feels intelligent and doesn't overwhelm.

Who gets the most from it? Gallery-goers and art students, mainly. If you're into contemporary stuff, it's worth a look. Family groups with young kids might find it a bit thin - there's only so much a five-year-old will engage with before they're ready to move on. Walkers passing through Colchester town centre can easily duck in without it derailing their day.

Admission details aren't entirely clear, but many public galleries offer free entry to permanent collections if there is one. Best to ring ahead or check their website before you visit. The main attraction here is that it's accessible right in Colchester itself, so if you're based at Colchester Country Park just 1.5 miles away or any of the camping spots - Ardleigh Caravan & Camping Park is four miles out - you can pop into town without faffing about with transport.

Truth is, it won't be the highlight of your park break. But it's a solid option if the weather turns grim and you fancy something indoors that doesn't involve shopping centres or cafes.