Glink Tattoo Studio

Glink Tattoo Studio isn't your typical gallery stop, but if you're into contemporary body art and the craftsmanship behind it, Durham's got something worth your time. This is a working studio first, gallery second - you'll see actual tattoo art on the walls alongside pieces from artists who've made their mark on the local scene. The work ranges from traditional designs to properly experimental stuff, and it's refreshingly unpretentious.

It's not a rainy-day activity for the whole family, to be honest. Kids under ten will get bored within minutes. But if you're travelling with teenagers or you're someone who appreciates the intersection of fine art and body modification, it's a solid detour from Durham city centre. Tattoo enthusiasts will find it interesting - you get a real sense of what the studio's philosophy is through the pieces on display.

Call ahead before you visit. Opening hours aren't widely published, and you'll want to check if there's an admission fee and how long you'll realistically want to spend. Most galleries of this type won't keep you more than 30 minutes unless you're genuinely engaged with the work. It slots neatly into a longer Durham day rather than being a destination in itself.

If you're camping at one of the nearby parks - Finchale Abbey, West Hall Glamping, or Strawberry Hill Farm are all within six miles - use this as a cultural pit stop between woodland walks and market-town pottering. Durham's got enough to justify a couple of nights, and this breaks up the itinerary nicely.