Henry Miller Fine Art

The Henry Miller Fine Art gallery sits in Essex, a short drive from London, and it's one of those places that catches you off guard. You're not expecting much as you walk in, but then the work just stops you. The collection spans contemporary pieces - painting, sculpture, occasionally mixed media - and the space itself is calm, unfussy, exactly what a gallery should be.

It's the sort of place serious art people will spend time in, turning things over in their heads. But it's not pretentious. Families with teenagers interested in visual arts will find it worth a visit too. Young kids might get restless after thirty minutes, if I'm honest.

The admission fees and opening hours aren't publicly posted online, which is slightly annoying, so ring ahead before you go. Allow an hour if you're browsing properly. If you're staying at Lee Valley Campsite just over in Sewardstone - which is decent enough, if a bit utilitarian - this makes an easy cultural break from the outdoors routine. It's close enough to London that you could combine it with other attractions, but far enough out that you're not fighting central London crowds.

Go on a weekday morning if you can. You'll have the place nearly to yourself, and the light's usually better then. Worth the detour if you're in the area and want something other than theme parks.