The Old Forge Open House

The Old Forge in Newhaven is a working artist's studio and gallery tucked away from the main drag - the sort of place you stumble upon rather than plan for. Inside, you'll find paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media pieces from local and visiting artists, all displayed in an actual working studio space rather than a sterile white-cube gallery. There's something quite honest about seeing half-finished work propped against the wall and catching artists in the middle of their day.

It's best suited to art enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates seeing creative process up close rather than just the finished article. If your kids are into making things themselves, they might get something out of it - though it's not a hands-on attraction. Expect to spend 45 minutes to an hour here, depending on how much you engage with individual pieces.

What makes it worthwhile for a park holiday is the intimacy of it. Three Ponds Holiday Park is barely a walk away, so it's an easy morning or late-afternoon outing when you fancy something cultural without the faffing about of a major gallery visit. The proximity to Newhaven's seafront means you could combine it with fish and chips or a proper coastal stroll. It won't blow your mind if contemporary art isn't your thing, but for a quiet corner of Sussex art-making, it's genuinely worth the detour.