Stela Art

You'll find Stela Art tucked away near Guildford, a gallery that takes contemporary art seriously without the pretension you sometimes get in Surrey. The space itself matters here - the layout forces you to slow down and actually look at what's on the walls rather than breeze through like you're ticking boxes.

What makes it worth a visit depends entirely on your tolerance for modern work. If abstract pieces and experimental sculpture leave you cold, you'll be out in twenty minutes. But if you're genuinely interested in what's happening in contemporary art right now, there's usually something worth thinking about. The gallery punches above its weight for the area.

It's the sort of place that works best solo or with someone who shares your tastes - bring a friend who thinks art is just "my five-year-old could do that" and you'll spend more time arguing than looking. Allow an hour if you're serious, half that if you're just passing through.

If you're staying at Chantry Wood Campsite or Chapel Farm Park nearby, it's worth combining with a proper walk around Guildford itself rather than making a special trip. The town centre has plenty to keep you occupied for a full day. Check ahead though - opening hours and admission details aren't straightforward to pin down online, so ring or visit the website before you go.