Dhieva

Dhieva is a contemporary art gallery tucked just outside Maidstone, and it's the sort of place that rewards a proper look around if you're into modern work. The space itself is intimate - not one of those vast, echoing warehouses - which means the exhibitions feel quite personal. You're genuinely close to what's on the walls.

What you'll find depends entirely on what's showing when you visit, so it's worth checking ahead before making the trip. The gallery tends to focus on emerging and established contemporary artists, with a rotating programme that keeps things fresh. If you're the type who spends an hour reading every artist statement and thinking about composition, you'll get the most from it. Families with young kids might find it a bit lean unless there's something particularly interactive on.

The location works well if you're basing yourself at one of the nearby caravan parks - Bearsted Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is closest at under three miles, or there's the glamping option at Rankins Farm if you fancy something slightly plusher. It's easily combined with a walk around Maidstone town centre, which sits just down the road, or if you're after proper countryside, the Medway Valley walks aren't far.

Bring your phone to look up opening hours and admission prices before you go, as details aren't readily available online. Worth a stop if contemporary art is your thing, but don't expect it to eat up an entire afternoon.