Stone Circle

Stone Circle in Durham is a gallery space that punches above its weight for a small regional venue. The building itself commands attention - modern, clean lines sitting somewhat incongruously in the County Durham landscape, a short drive from Durham town centre. Inside, you'll find contemporary art exhibitions that rotate throughout the year, ranging from paintings and sculpture to photography and installations. It's the sort of place where local and emerging artists get proper platform alongside occasional bigger names.

The gallery works best for art enthusiasts and anyone wanting to spend an hour or so engaging with work that's genuinely interesting rather than tokenistic. Kids will either love it or get restless within ten minutes - depends entirely on what's on and how patient they are. Most exhibitions are free to view, though details on current shows and opening hours are best confirmed before heading over, as this isn't the sort of venue that shouts about itself.

If you're camping at Grove Farm or one of the other parks scattered around the Durham area, Stone Circle makes a decent indoor activity on a soggy afternoon. It's close enough to Durham itself that you can combine it with a walk along the river or a look at the cathedral precinct. Don't expect blockbuster crowds or shiny corporate presentation - this is a proper working gallery with community at its heart. Worth the visit if contemporary art appeals to you; easy to skip if it doesn't.