Howarth's Gallery

The first thing that strikes you about Howarth's Gallery is how tucked away it feels from Newbury's main drag. You're looking at a proper contemporary art space where the work actually matters - no dusty portraiture or tired landscapes taking up wall space just because they're old. The gallery focuses on emerging and established artists, and the rotating exhibitions mean there's a genuine reason to visit more than once if you're in the area.

It's a solid stop for anyone who gets genuinely excited about art, though families with fidgety toddlers might find it a bit too quiet and focused for their liking. Adults interested in regional talent and occasional installations will absolutely get something out of an hour here. The West Berkshire location gives it a certain calm you wouldn't find in a city gallery - there's space to breathe and actually think about what you're looking at.

If you're based at one of the nearby parks - Cherry Bird Country Park is less than two miles away, or Rhodeside Cl if you're with the Caravan Club - this works brilliantly as an afternoon detour when the weather turns a bit dodgy. Beats sitting in the van playing cards. Access details and whether you need to book ahead aren't completely clear, so ring first to check opening hours and if there's an entry fee. Given how specialised these galleries are, it won't be packed, which is rather the point.