Gallery At St Martin's

The Gallery at St Martin's sits in Lincoln with proper contemporary art credentials. It's a working space where you can actually watch artists in their studios - no pretentious velvet ropes, just real craftspeople making things. You wander through converted church rooms and see everything from painting and sculpture to jewellery and textiles. Some pieces are for sale, which keeps the whole thing grounded and unpretentious.

This works best for anyone who likes art without the stuffiness of big museums. Parents with older kids won't feel rushed, and artists themselves will want to hang about asking questions. Allow a solid hour, though you could breeze through in thirty if you're just browsing. The admission situation isn't fully clear from my end, so ring ahead or check when you arrive - most artist-led galleries in Lincoln are free or charge a couple of quid.

If you're based at Hartsholme Country Park just up the road (2.2 miles), this makes an easy afternoon trip when the weather turns grey. South Cliff Caravan Site sits only 3.5 miles away too. Both are decent enough bases for exploring Lincoln itself. The gallery sits near the cathedral precinct, so combine it with a wander up through the old town - you'll get your steps in and actually see how Lincoln's shaped as a place rather than just ticking boxes.