Golders Hill Girl

You'll find this gallery tucked away in Hertfordshire, just east of London - closer than you'd expect for something this off the radar. It's a contemporary art space that takes itself seriously without being pretentious, which is refreshing.

The work on display tends toward figurative and abstract pieces, with rotating exhibitions that keep things fresh if you're in the area more than once. It's not massive - you can walk through properly in under an hour, which suits most people fine. The space has decent natural light, and there's usually something worth standing in front of for a few minutes.

Walking distance from Elstree Park if you're staying there, which makes it a reasonable detour without eating half your day. Art enthusiasts will get more from it than casual visitors, honestly. Families with restless kids might find it a bit quiet and contemplative for their needs.

I'd ring ahead or check their social media to confirm opening times and whether there's an admission charge - details aren't widely publicised. If you're combining it with other attractions around London's edges, it works. On its own? Worth a look if you're passing, but not worth planning your whole trip around it.