From Within

Contemporary art meets seaside sensibilities at this independent gallery space in Shanklin, where local and visiting artists showcase work that ranges from sculpture to photography. The intimate setting means you can actually have a proper conversation with whoever's manning the desk - often the artists themselves.

Gallery-hoppers and culture vultures will find plenty to ponder, though the rotating exhibitions mean it's pot luck what you'll encounter. Some shows are genuinely thought-provoking, others feel a bit sixth-form. The space itself is compact, so don't expect a full afternoon's entertainment unless there's a special event on.

Families with younger children might struggle to keep little ones engaged for more than twenty minutes, but teenagers with an artistic bent often surprise themselves by getting drawn into the work. The gallery's proximity to Shanklin's main attractions makes it an easy cultural pit-stop between beach time and the cliff lift.

If you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Parkdean's Lower Hyde or Landguard, it's worth checking their current exhibition online first. The walk from central Shanklin takes about ten minutes, and you can easily combine it with exploring the Old Village or grabbing lunch at one of the seafront cafes.