The Scar Gallery

Art galleries tucked away in market towns don't usually stop you in your tracks, but The Scar Gallery in Appleby-in-Westmorland does exactly that. It's a proper contemporary space that punches well above what you'd expect from a small Pennine settlement - the kind of place that makes you think 'how did they pull this off here?'

The gallery showcases work by established and emerging artists, with exhibitions that rotate regularly. Depending on what's on when you visit, you might find anything from sculpture to photography to multimedia installations. The space itself is intimate without feeling cramped, and the staff clearly care about what they're showing.

This works best for anyone who actually enjoys looking at art rather than ticking boxes. It's not a two-minute stop - you'll want forty-five minutes to an hour minimum to take things in properly. Families with teenagers interested in contemporary work will get something from it; younger kids might lose patience.

Check ahead on their opening hours and what's currently exhibiting before you trek over. It's free to visit, which is a bonus. If you're staying at Gillcumber Glamping Pods nearby, it's an easy drive into Appleby itself, and the gallery pairs well with wandering the town's high street and grabbing lunch at one of the local cafes. As a solo cultural detour during a park holiday in Cumbria, it's worth the visit - assuming the current exhibition speaks to you.