Silvas Capitalis

A converted chapel in the Northumberland countryside that's now home to contemporary art and sculpture. Silvas Capitalis sits quietly near Hexham, far enough from the main drag that you won't stumble on it by accident. Inside, the whitewashed walls and high ceilings create an unexpectedly intimate space for viewing work - mostly installations and pieces by emerging artists who've chosen this spot deliberately.

It's worth a stop if you're genuinely interested in contemporary practice rather than looking for the usual gallery café experience. There's no gift shop, no fuss. You get the art and the peculiar acoustics of a converted religious building, which actually works in its favour. Allow ninety minutes maximum; it's not vast, but the work demands attention.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Kielder Waterside and Lodges or Landal Kielder Waterside are both close by - this makes for a decent half-day outing when the weather turns. The Kielder area itself is well-trodden walking country, so pairing a gallery visit with a woodland loop keeps everyone happy. Best visited mid-week if you can; weekends bring the full complement of gallery-goers, and the chapel can feel cramped.

Not for casual browsers. This is the sort of place where art types linger and take notes.