The Flame

The Flame is a contemporary art gallery just outside Sawbridgeworth that punches well above its weight for a small Hertfordshire venue. It's the sort of place where you'll find work by proper artists - installations, paintings, sculpture - in a setting that feels intentional rather than thrown together. The gallery space itself is modern and uncluttered, which lets the work breathe without distraction.

It's worth a visit if you're into visual art or just after something a bit different during a park holiday. You won't spend hours here - more like 45 minutes to an hour depending on what's on - but that's rather the point. The quality matters more than the quantity. The location near Sawbridgeworth makes it easy enough to slot into a day that might include walks around The Wild Retreat at Redricks Lake or Toad Abode, both within easy driving distance.

I'd say go if there's an exhibition that appeals to you specifically. Ring ahead or check their website first rather than turning up on spec. The gallery operates at its own pace, which means opening hours and admission aren't always straightforward to nail down without asking directly. It's not the sort of attraction that'll keep kids entertained all afternoon, but older teens interested in art will find something genuine here rather than something designed purely for tourism.