Wild Folk

Art in Charlestown doesn't get much more contemporary than Wild Folk, a gallery that takes itself seriously without the stuffiness you'd find in bigger cities. The space showcases work from emerging and established artists, with a focus on pieces that actually engage with the landscape and culture of Cornwall rather than defaulting to seaside cliché.

You're looking at rotating exhibitions, so what's on the walls changes regularly. The gallery itself is small enough that you won't need more than an hour, which makes it an ideal slot during a rainy afternoon or between beach trips. It's the sort of place where locals actually turn up to openings, which tells you something about the quality of the programming.

Families with older kids who can appreciate contemporary work will get more from it than those with toddlers. Walkers passing through Charlestown will find it worth a quick look, especially if you're curious about what the local creative scene is producing rather than just the tourist-facing stuff.

Charges aren't confirmed online, but independent galleries like this tend to have modest entry fees or run on a donation basis. Before heading over from East Crinnis or Pentewan Sands, worth ringing ahead to check what's currently showing and whether it aligns with your interests. Charlestown itself is worth a wander afterwards - the harbour has proper character, even if it's been dressed up for visitors.