Nolton Art Gallery

The Nolton Art Gallery sits in Bridgend County Borough, a short drive inland from the seaside town of Porthcawl. It's a working contemporary gallery that rotates exhibitions throughout the year, so what you'll find depends entirely on when you visit. Local and emerging artists dominate the schedule, which means you get proper variety rather than the same touring blockbuster show everyone else is queuing for.

The space itself is intimate - you're not tramping through vast halls here. That works brilliantly if you're after something thoughtful and unhurried, less so if you're hoping to burn an hour before lunch. Most visitors spend 20 to 40 minutes having a proper look around, depending on the exhibition. Art enthusiasts and anyone curious about the Welsh contemporary scene will find it worthwhile. Families with restless kids might find it a touch sparse, though if your teenagers are into modern art, they'll appreciate the low-pressure vibe.

It's worth checking their website before you go since exhibitions change regularly and admission charges may vary. Being free or reasonably priced would be a genuine bonus after a beach day in Porthcawl. If you're based at Trecco Bay Holiday Park, it's barely 15 minutes away, so pair it with a morning in Porthcawl town centre and you've got a decent half-day sorted. Don't expect cutting-edge Turner Prize material, but do expect something genuine and worth your time.