Wyllyotts Theatre

The Wyllyotts Theatre sits just outside Barnet, a proper community venue that punches above its weight for local theatre-goers. It's the sort of place where you'll catch everything from amateur dramatics to small professional productions, pantomimes that pack out in December, and the occasional music gig. The building itself is functional rather than fancy - no grand Victorian facade here - but that's rather the point. This is theatre for real people, not theatre tourism.

You're looking at intimate performances where you can actually see the actors' faces without binoculars. The programme shifts seasonally, so it's worth checking ahead before you visit. Families with kids will find the Christmas panto is genuinely good value, and teenagers might surprise you by getting properly engaged with a decent drama production. It's the kind of venue where you won't spend a fortune on tickets, and the bar serves proper drinks rather than overpriced nonsense.

If you're parked up at The Mimms Caravan Park just 1.6 miles away, or staying further out at Aldenham Country Park, the Wyllyotts makes for an easy evening out. Not a day-long attraction by any means - you're in and out in two hours - but absolutely worth considering if the current production appeals. Ring ahead or check online for what's on and booking details, as programming varies throughout the year. On its own it's not a reason to plan a trip, but paired with exploring Barnet's town centre and the surrounding parks, it slots in nicely.