Craft

There's a working craft gallery just outside Bath where you can actually watch makers doing their thing rather than just gawping at finished work behind glass. Craft sits in that sweet spot between serious art space and a place where you won't feel pretentious popping in for twenty minutes. The whole appeal hinges on seeing potters at the wheel, glassblowers creating pieces, or whatever else is on the rotation that day. You get the hum of activity, the smell of the workshop, real conversation with the people who made what you're looking at. It's proper engaging, especially for anyone who gets bored standing in front of paintings.

Kids get a kick out of it because there's movement and tangible craft on display, not just abstract concepts. Adults who make things themselves will appreciate the technical skill on show. Even if you're just passing through Bath, it's worth the detour if you've got a couple of hours spare.

The gallery works best as a break between walking around Bath's Georgian architecture and exploring the surrounding countryside. Bath Mill Lodge Retreat and CAMPWELL FARM are both close enough that you could easily combine a morning at Craft with an afternoon ramble through nearby parks or the countryside around Trowbridge. Check ahead though - opening hours and admission fees aren't always consistent with these independent spaces, so ring or check online before you plan your visit.