Pelican Sundial

You'll find this rather unusual gallery tucked away in Oxford, a space that manages to be both intimate and thought-provoking. The Pelican Sundial is a contemporary art venue that punches above its weight - it's the kind of place where the work actually makes you stop and think instead of just scrolling past on your phone.

The gallery itself is compact, which means you won't spend hours here, but that's rather the point. Artists get proper attention rather than getting lost in a sprawl of rooms. Expect modern and experimental work - nothing fusty or dusty about it. The exhibitions rotate regularly, so there's always something new to discover if you're in Oxford more than once.

It works brilliantly as a break from the tourist treadmill of college quads and punting on the Cherwell. After a morning wandering around central Oxford, this gives you a different angle on what the city's about creatively. You could pair it with a wander through some of Oxford's independent shops or grab lunch nearby before heading out to one of the surrounding parks.

If you're staying at Cedar Hollow Oxford or Valley Farm Campsite just a few miles out, you're well-positioned for a quick trip in. It's not a major draw on its own - you won't travel across the country for it - but if you're already in the area, worth an hour of your time. Check opening hours before you go, as gallery hours can be erratic.