The Poet Andrew Marvell

The Andrew Marvell Gallery in Beverley is a small but genuinely worthwhile detour if you're already in the market town - though it's not the sort of place you'll spend all afternoon. The gallery celebrates the life and work of the 17th-century poet, with manuscripts, first editions and personal artefacts that give real shape to Marvell's story beyond what you'd learn from a biography. What strikes you most is how local he was - born in nearby Winestead, served as Hull's MP, spent his working life entangled in the politics of the English Civil War and Commonwealth. The display doesn't feel dusty or academic. It's intimate without being precious.

Literally anyone can walk in - admission is free - which is refreshing. History types and poetry enthusiasts will obviously get more from it, but even if you're only vaguely curious about the man, the setting in Beverley's Georgian town centre makes it easy to combine with a proper look around the town itself. The Minster is stunning, and there's decent shopping and eating if you're making a day of it. From Manor Farm Camping five miles out, it's a straight run in - perfect if you want a cultural break between woodland walks. Allow 45 minutes to an hour, and go in the morning when you've got time to actually read the panels properly rather than rushing through. It's the kind of place that rewards a bit of attention.