The Open Studios

You'll find working artists in their actual studios here, which immediately sets The Open Studios apart from the usual gallery experience. It's in Sussex, just outside Brighton, and the whole point is watching people make things - sculpture, painting, jewellery, textiles - rather than just staring at finished work behind glass. The setup lets you ask questions, see techniques in action, and occasionally buy directly from the maker at better prices than you'd pay elsewhere.

Historically inclined visitors often skip this sort of thing, which is their loss. There's genuine craft on display, and the artists themselves are genuinely interested in talking about their work. Kids won't get restless here the way they might in a formal gallery - there's always something happening, and the energy of a working studio beats a silent room every time.

It works brilliantly as part of a broader Sussex arts circuit, especially if you're based at one of the local campsites. Pegs and Pitches is closest at 1.2 miles, while Chalky Downs and Brighton Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite give you other solid options depending on what else you want to do. You could easily combine The Open Studios with a Brighton seafront day or a walk through the South Downs.

The website will tell you opening times and current admission fees - these vary depending on what's on - so check before you go. Allow 90 minutes to two hours if you want to actually engage with artists rather than rush through. Best visited midweek if you prefer a quieter experience.