No Entry Gates (Wildspace Network)

Art in unexpected places tends to stop you in your tracks, and the No Entry Gates installation does exactly that. Part of the Wildspace Network, it's a gallery experience that breaks the mould of traditional white-walled rooms - instead, you're encountering contemporary work in public spaces across Tyne and Wear. The project champions artists working outside the conventional gallery circuit, so what you're looking at has usually been made for the specific location rather than hung on a wall as an afterthought.

Whitley Bay's the nearest proper town, which makes this a logical addition to a coastal break rather than a standalone pilgrimage. If you're based at Old Hartley Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite or Parkdean Resorts just down the road, you can stumble across installations while exploring the area on foot - which is rather the point. There's something refreshing about art that doesn't demand your full attention and a ticket fee; it meets you where you are.

The catch is that opening hours and admission details aren't straightforward online, so check ahead before planning your visit. That said, much of Wildspace is accessible whenever you happen upon it. History buffs and families will appreciate different elements depending on what's on display at any given time. Allow a couple of hours for a proper wander if you're serious about it, or simply stumble across pieces during a longer walk. It's less "gallery destination" and more "pleasant surprise during a day out" - which frankly suits the North East coast rather well.