Helen Anne Hillson

The Helen Anne Hillson gallery sits just outside Peterborough and showcases work by a contemporary artist whose output ranges from painting to sculpture. It's a small, independent space - the kind of place where you'll actually get to speak to people who know the work rather than shuffle past laminated interpretation boards.

Visiting here works best if you've got a genuine interest in contemporary art or you're the type who enjoys seeking out local creative spaces. The gallery doesn't demand hours of your time - you can see the bulk of the collection in thirty to forty minutes, which makes it a sensible addition to an afternoon when you're based at Ferry Meadows or Nene Outdoors nearby. Both caravan sites are within easy striking distance for a quick cultural break.

It's worth checking ahead before you go since opening hours and admission details aren't widely publicised online. A quick phone call will save a wasted journey. The gallery has the feel of a proper working artist's space rather than a polished tourist attraction, which is either exactly what appeals to you or not at all. If you're caravan-based in the area and keen on art, it's worth the detour. If you're hoping for something with the scale and grandeur of a major museum, you'll be disappointed.