Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre

A converted barn about a mile out of Walton-on-Thames that's become the area's main arts venue. Think exhibition space, performance hall, and workshop studios all under one roof - the sort of place that keeps the local creative community alive. The building itself is handsome in that understated way barns can be when they've been properly done up, all exposed beams and soft brick, without feeling try-hard about it.

Who gets the most from it depends entirely on what's on. There's visual art - painting, sculpture, photography - mixed in with theatre, dance, and live music across the year. During school holidays they run workshops for kids. If you're camping at Walton on Thames or Weybridge Park Estates nearby, it's an easy outing when the weather turns or you fancy an evening out.

The practical stuff: ring ahead or check their website before you go, as opening hours shift with exhibitions and performances. Admission prices vary depending on what you're seeing. Most contemporary art shows are free to browse, whereas theatre tickets will cost. Budget an hour if you're just popping in to look at paintings, longer if there's a performance.

It works well as part of a broader Surrey trip - stick Chessington World of Adventures on your list too if you've got younger kids, or base yourselves at one of the Camping Club sites and use Riverhouse as a rainy-day anchor point. Not a reason to drive two hours for on its own, but proper worthwhile if you're already in the area.