Mead Gallery

The Mead Gallery sits on the University of Warwick campus just outside Kenilworth, and it's one of those places that catches you off guard. You walk in expecting something fusty and academic, but what you get is a genuinely interesting contemporary art space that takes itself seriously without being pretentious about it.

The gallery rotates exhibitions throughout the year, so there's no single "thing" to see - it might be painting, sculpture, installation work, or photography. On my visit, the curation was sharp and the works had proper space to breathe around them. The building itself is functional rather than showy, which actually lets the art do the talking.

It's free to get in, which is brilliant. You'll need anything from 45 minutes to two hours depending on what's on and how much you want to read. Art students and anyone who actually cares about contemporary work will get the most from it; kids under ten might find it a bit sparse unless there's something particularly interactive on.

If you're caravan camping at Broadwell Woods or Hollyfast nearby, it's a straightforward drive over. Worth combining with a walk around Kenilworth Castle or a stroll through the town itself - the gallery isn't a day out on its own, but it's a solid hour well spent if you're in the area for a few days. Check ahead online for what's showing before you go.