Julian Green Gallery

The Julian Green Gallery sits quietly in Sheffield's art scene, showcasing contemporary work that actually makes you think rather than just look pretty on Instagram. It's a proper working gallery space where you'll find painting, sculpture and mixed media from established and emerging artists - the sort of place where the hanging changes regularly enough that repeat visits feel worthwhile.

The gallery itself is unpretentious. No grandiose entrance or gift shop trying to flog you overpriced catalogues. You walk in, you look at what's on, and if something grabs you, you talk to the staff who actually know the work. It works brilliantly for serious art types and casual visitors alike. Kids might find themselves bored if there's nothing figurative on show, but a thoughtful teenager keen on contemporary practice will get more from an hour here than they would from much grander institutions.

Sheffield's got decent bones for a cultural break - it's a city that's genuinely invested in its creative spaces over the past decade. Pair a gallery visit with a walk up to the Peak District, which spreads north and west from the city limits. If you're based at North Lees Campsite just outside, you're within easy striking distance of both urban culture and proper countryside. The gallery won't take more than an hour of your time, but it's worth factoring in if you're hanging around Sheffield anyway. Check their website before you go - opening hours and admission details vary depending on what's running.