Derby Ram

The Derby Ram isn't what you'd expect from a gallery space in the East Midlands. It's housed in a 16th-century coaching inn right in Derby's city centre - the sort of place where you half-expect to bump into a Jacobean merchant round the corner. The ram itself, a copper weathervane, crowns the building and has become something of a local landmark.

Inside, the gallery focuses on contemporary art and craft, rotating exhibitions that lean towards local and regional artists. It's intimate rather than sprawling - you can see everything in under an hour, which suits a rainy afternoon perfectly. The historic setting itself is half the appeal; wandering through dark wooden beams and period features while looking at modern work creates an oddly compelling contrast.

This works best for art enthusiasts and anyone with a genuine interest in independent galleries rather than blockbuster exhibitions. Families with young children might find it a bit quiet and contemplative. The location in Derby's town centre makes it easy to combine with a walk around the Silk Mill or a pub lunch nearby.

If you're camping at Hill Farm, just four miles outside town, the Ram makes a sensible wet-weather detour during a park holiday. Admission details and opening hours are best confirmed before visiting - independent galleries in historic buildings can be temperamental with their schedules. Allow time to explore Derby's other independent shops and cafes while you're in the area.