Silvester Horne Institute

The Silvester Horne Institute sits in Church Stretton, a market town nestled between the Long Mynd and Caradoc hills. It's an arts centre that hosts exhibitions, performances and events throughout the year - the sort of place locals actually use rather than tour coaches queue outside. You'll find contemporary art shows, theatre productions, and community events depending on when you visit. The website will give you the current programme, though calling ahead is sensible given opening hours aren't listed online.

This works best for anyone spending time in the area who wants a bit of cultural downtime between walks and outdoor stuff. If you're camping at Small Batch Camp Site just up the road or one of the other sites scattered around Church Stretton - Mountain Edge is only 2.4 miles away - the institute gives you a proper reason to head into town beyond the fish and chip shop. Families with teenagers keen on art or theatre will get something from it; younger kids might find it a bit dry depending on what's on. Admission details aren't confirmed, so check their website before you go.

Allow an hour or so, longer if there's a performance or you want to browse properly. It's a solid addition to a Shropshire holiday rather than a day-trip destination in itself. Worth fitting in on a wet afternoon or if the hills are looking too grey for comfort. The town itself has decent cafes and a pleasant high street if you want to make an afternoon of it.