Squirrel

The Squirrel gallery sits just outside Henley-on-Thames, a proper working art space rather than the sort of stuffy white-box affair you might expect. We turned up on a Saturday morning not quite knowing what to expect - the name alone doesn't give much away. What you get is a converted barn space where contemporary artists show their work, rotating exhibitions that lean toward painting, sculpture and mixed media. It's small enough that you won't spend hours wandering about, but there's real quality on the walls.

This suits people who actually care about art rather than those just ticking off tourist boxes. If you're camped at Swiss Farm or Henley Four Oaks - both excellent sites, mind you - and you've had enough of the River Thames for one afternoon, it's worth the short drive. The venue punches above its weight for a rural gallery, and the fact that it's relatively unknown means you'll have the space to yourself on most days.

Admission details and opening hours proved tricky to pin down, so ring ahead before making the trip. Allow a solid hour if there's an exhibition you're keen on, less if you're just browsing. It won't suit restless kids, but for art-minded adults wanting something low-key near Embers Camping or the other local sites, it's a genuine find. The Henley area itself has plenty of walking routes and riverside spots, so you can easily build a half-day around it without feeling rushed.