Handstanding

Handstanding is a contemporary art gallery just outside Ipswich that takes itself seriously without any pretension. It's the kind of place where you'll find work that actually makes you stop and think rather than politely shuffle past.

The gallery showcases emerging and established artists across painting, sculpture, and installation. Depending on what's on during your visit, you might spend anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours here. The space itself is intimate - this isn't a sprawling institution, but that's rather the point. You get a proper look at things.

It's genuinely good if you're into contemporary art and want something beyond the usual regional offerings. Less so if you're dragging reluctant teenagers round on a wet Tuesday. Families with older kids who actually care about art will find it worthwhile; younger ones may get restless quickly.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Priory Park is virtually on the doorstep at 0.7 miles, while Bucklesham Park and Cosy Camping Suffolk are both under four miles away - Handstanding makes a solid half-day addition to a holiday focused on the Suffolk countryside. Pair it with a wander round Ipswich town centre or head out to the wider Ipswich area for more substantial attractions.

Details on admission fees and exact opening hours aren't readily available online, so ring ahead before you plan your visit. Worth the detour if contemporary art is your thing; skip it if you're after something more traditionally touristic.