Ken Stewart Gallery

The Ken Stewart Gallery sits in Larne, a working harbour town that doesn't pretend to be anything fancier than it is. It's a modest space, but the work on the walls tells you someone here cares about contemporary art in a place where you might not expect to find it. Stewart's pieces have a directness to them - the kind of work that makes you stop and actually look rather than just walk past. You'll spend maybe 45 minutes here if you're genuinely interested, less if you're not, and that's fine. There's no pretence about it being a grand institution, which is rather refreshing. This is art in the real world, not in some rarefied bubble. The gallery works best for anyone who appreciates contemporary practice without the London gallery circuit nonsense. If you're camping at Down to Earth Wild Camping just up the coast, it's absolutely worth the short drive into town as a wet weather option or a break from the outdoors. It won't take a full day, so pair it with a proper walk along Larne seafront or a visit to the town's maritime history if you've got time. Free admission is likely, though it's worth checking ahead. Go on a weekday if you can - you'll have the place to yourself and can actually think.