The Arc Winchester

The Arc Winchester is a contemporary art gallery tucked into Winchester's heart, and it's the kind of place that rewards a proper browse rather than a quick tick-off. Inside you'll find rotating exhibitions spanning painting, sculpture, photography and installations - the sort of work that makes you either nod thoughtfully or scratch your head in confusion, sometimes both at once.

It works best for art enthusiasts and anyone after a bit of cultural substance during a park holiday. If you're camped at Holden Farm or Hookpit Farm - both excellent spots, mind - this is a decent rainy-day option or a morning's diversion before heading elsewhere in Winchester. The cathedral and high street are close by, so you can easily combine a visit with proper exploring.

Realistically, allow 45 minutes to an hour depending on what's on and how much time you spend reading the wall notes. It's free to wander in most cases, though specific exhibitions might charge - worth checking ahead. The gallery itself is modern and well-lit, nothing fancy or pretentious about it.

Truth be told, if you're bringing restless kids expecting dinosaurs or interactive chaos, they'll get bored fast. But for adults wanting something beyond the usual seaside attractions, it slots in nicely. Winchester's a strong base for a caravan holiday anyway - decent restaurants, proper shopping, historic bits and pieces everywhere. The Arc just adds another thread to what's already there.