Robert Maddison, Artist & Fine Art Photographer

Robert Maddison's studio and gallery near Hexham is a proper working artist's space, not some polished commercial venture. You'll find contemporary fine art and photography scattered across the rooms, much of it dealing with landscape and the North East itself. The work has weight to it - he's clearly serious about both the craft of photography and painting.

This is one for people who actually care about art rather than those after a quick Instagram tick. If you're staying at Westgate Caravan & Camping Site, it's close enough for a morning visit without eating into your day. Allow an hour or so to walk around properly, read the artist's notes, and actually absorb what's on display rather than rushing through.

The space rewards conversation too. When Maddison's there, he'll talk you through the work without being patronising - the sort of artist who's made a genuine go of it in the region rather than decamped to London. Free to visit, though there's usually an honesty box for prints or cards if something strikes you.

Geographically it's well-positioned if you're exploring the Hexham area and want something quieter than the high street attractions. Not a destination in itself, but absolutely worth the detour if you're the type who gets something from standing in front of actual art rather than reading about it online.