Swan House Gallery

The Swan House Gallery sits in a quiet corner of Norfolk, just a short drive from Diss, and it's one of those places that rewards the effort of tracking down the opening times. You're walking into someone's genuine creative space here - this isn't a corporate setup with gift shop tie-ins and laminated info boards.

What you'll find depends on who's exhibiting, but the gallery showcases contemporary work from local and regional artists. The space itself has character, the sort of venue where you feel like you're getting a proper look at what matters to the people running it rather than a curated crowd-pleaser.

It's ideal for anyone who can't face another afternoon of staring at the same regional museum collections. If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Arthur's Retreat or Applewood Countryside Holidays are both solid choices within a few miles - this makes a worthwhile detour before heading back for supper. Plan an hour or so, though you could spend longer if something grabs you.

The honest bit: it's small, and it's not going to keep kids entertained for long if they're not already into art. But if you're the type who likes finding galleries off the beaten track, where the work on the walls actually means something to the people hanging it, this is worth the hunt. Check their blog before you visit - that's where opening details live.