The Obelisk

The Obelisk in Maidstone is a proper gallery space that punches above its weight for a town of this size. It's contemporary art focused, the kind of place where you'll find working artists' studios alongside rotating exhibitions that actually make you think rather than just trudge through on autopilot.

You're looking at somewhere between 45 minutes and two hours depending on what's on and how deep you want to go into the work. The space itself is compact but well-used - industrial bones with white walls and decent lighting. Photography, sculpture, installations, paintings - the programming shifts regularly enough that it's worth checking what's happening before you visit rather than rocking up blind.

Admission details aren't readily available online, which is frustrating, so ring ahead or check their social media. It's not one for getting small children through - they'll be bored within ten minutes - but teenagers interested in art or design students will find it useful.

If you're camped at Gatehouse Wood Country Park or River View just down the road, it's an easy trip into Maidstone proper rather than staying stuck at the caravan. Pair it with a walk along the river or a look around the town itself. The Hop Farm over at Beltring is another option if you're doing the leisure park circuit, though that's more about the buildings and farm heritage than contemporary art. The Obelisk is worth an hour of your time if you're actually interested in what's on the walls.