Gallery Thirteen

Gallery Thirteen sits in Godalming, a proper working gallery that takes itself seriously without being precious about it. It's the kind of place where you'll find contemporary art that actually makes you stop and think rather than nod politely and move on. The gallery focuses on emerging and established artists, rotating shows regularly, so there's always something different to see.

You're looking at maybe an hour here, depending on how deep you want to go with the work. The space itself is intimate - not one of those vast white cube affairs where you feel obliged to whisper. It's the sort of gallery where you can actually have a conversation about what's on the walls without feeling pretentious.

Art types and anyone with a genuine curiosity about contemporary work will get the most from it. It's not a family entertainment spot, but teenagers who've got past the "why is it just a blank canvas" phase might surprise you. The gallery works well as part of a Godalming day out - the town's got decent pubs and independent shops, so you can easily string together an afternoon.

If you're staying at Little Cowdray Farm Glamping or Tilford Woods Lodge Retreat nearby, both within easy reach, it's worth a drive over. Not a blockbuster attraction, but if you care about contemporary art at all, it's the genuine article. Opening times do vary by exhibition, so check ahead before you go.