Rickerby Squirrel

The Rickerby Squirrel gallery sits just outside Carlisle, a proper spot for anyone who appreciates quirky, unexpected art. It's a working gallery space focused on contemporary work, and the kind of place that rewards a slow wander rather than a quick tick-off.

What strikes you first is how intimate it feels. There's none of that intimidating white-cube gallery sterility - instead, it's refreshingly unpretentious, the sort of venue where you might actually want to linger over a piece instead of speed-reading the label. The work on display shifts, so there's reason to return if you're in the area regularly.

This works best for art enthusiasts and anyone after a cultural breather from the usual Lake District attractions. Kids might get restless unless they're genuinely interested in contemporary stuff, so it's not a rainy-day family filler.

If you're based at Green Acres Caravan Park or Camelot Holiday Park - both within easy driving distance - this makes a fine morning or afternoon detour. Carlisle itself has reasonable cafes nearby, so you could make a half-day of it without feeling rushed.

The gallery's strength is exactly its lack of fanfare. You'll need to check ahead for opening hours and whether there's an admission charge, but the unhurried atmosphere is worth the effort to visit. It's the kind of place that local art people know about and actually care about, which usually means it's worth your time too.