X Ray Fish

Walking into X Ray Fish in Beverley, you're met with contemporary art that takes some getting your head around - which is precisely the point. It's a working gallery space where established and emerging artists show experimental pieces, installations, and work that doesn't sit comfortably in traditional brackets.

The space itself is intimate rather than grand, which means you're never overwhelmed but also means crowds can feel a bit tight on opening nights. Most visits take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how much the work grabs you. Some exhibitions are immediately arresting; others require you to sit with them for a bit. That's not a criticism - it's what independent galleries do well.

This appeals most to people who genuinely enjoy contemporary art rather than those after a quick cultural tick-box. If you're staying at Manor Farm Camping nearby, it's a sensible rainy-day option or an evening visit before dinner in Beverley's town centre. The town itself is handsome - all Georgian architecture and decent restaurants - so you could easily build a half-day around the gallery and a wander through town.

Beverley as a whole punches above its weight for somewhere of its size. The Minster is genuinely impressive, and there's proper independent shopping. X Ray Fish fits neatly into that picture - it's part of what makes the place worth a visit rather than the sole reason to come. Worth an hour of your time if contemporary work appeals to you.