The Big Picture Reborn

The Big Picture Reborn sits just outside St Albans and is exactly what its name suggests - a gallery devoted to large-scale contemporary art. It's the sort of place that catches you off guard if you're expecting something traditionally stuffy. The space itself commands attention, with works that genuinely need the room to breathe.

You'll wander through pieces that range from bold abstracts to installations that make you stop and actually think about what you're looking at. It's not the kind of gallery where you can dash through in twenty minutes - most people spend a good hour or two properly engaging with things. The building has a refreshingly unpretentious feel, which helps if you're not normally an art-world type.

It works brilliantly for anyone who cares about contemporary work, obviously, but also for couples wanting a culture hit that doesn't require a day trip into London. Kids with even a passing interest in art will find it far more engaging than a traditional museum. If you're staying at Frogmore Park Homes or Cherry Green Trees, both just a couple of miles away, this makes a proper afternoon outing - especially on a day when the weather's turned a bit damp.

Bring your own opinions. The best part about contemporary galleries is there's no "right" way to respond to the work, and the staff here seem to get that. Well worth the detour if you're spending time in the area.