Show Off

Show Off is a contemporary art gallery tucked away in Whitstable, the kind of place that rewards a bit of curiosity if you're already in town for the beaches and fish restaurants. It's a working space where local and regional artists exhibit - everything from paintings and sculpture to installations and mixed media, depending on what's on rotation. The gallery itself is compact, so don't expect to spend hours wandering about; you're looking at maybe thirty minutes to an hour to properly see what's hanging.

It works well if you're into current art and want something beyond the tourist trail. Families with older kids who can appreciate contemporary work will find it interesting enough, though younger children might lose interest quickly. The venue has a genuine community feel rather than the polished, commercial vibe of bigger galleries - artists often use it as a platform, so there's a real sense of discovery about what you'll find on any given visit.

Whitstable itself makes for a proper seaside day out, and Show Off slots neatly into that plan. Most of the nearby holiday parks - Seaview, Seasalter, and Central Beach are all within walking distance or a short drive - would give you a good base for exploring both the gallery and the wider coastal area. The shingle beach is excellent, the independent shops along the high street are worth a browse, and the fresh seafood is genuinely good.

I'd call ahead before visiting to check opening hours and whether there's an admission charge. It's the kind of gallery that might close for a week between exhibitions.