Ocean And Earth

Art galleries tucked into the Cornish coast aren't usually what you'd expect to find between the fish and chip shops, but Ocean and Earth in Bude proves there's more than one way to spend a rainy afternoon in North Cornwall. The space showcases work that speaks to its location - think seascapes, environmental themes, coastal sculpture - the kind of gallery that actually makes sense in where it is rather than feeling like it was transplanted from London.

You'll want to allow a solid hour here, maybe 90 minutes if you're the type who reads every artist's statement. It's the sort of place that rewards a proper wander rather than a quick lap. Couples and anyone with even a passing interest in contemporary art will get the most from it; younger kids might lose interest fairly quickly unless they're unusually patient with abstract work.

The location means it pairs well with a stay at one of the nearby holiday parks - Wooda Farm Holiday Park up the road is properly rated, and it's only a short drive from Atlantic Surf Pods if you're after something more compact. Bude itself has the beaches and the coastal path, so you could easily combine an hour here with lunch and a cliff-top walk without it feeling like you're overdoing it on rainy-day activities.

Best to check their website or ring ahead before heading over - opening hours aren't always straightforward for independent galleries in smaller towns.