Gagging for a culture fix without schlepping into London? No problemo. Muddy Award-winning visual arts centre The Base in Greenham Common is the hottest ticket in town – and fast becoming a flagship space for big-name exhibitions seeking an audience outside of the Big Smoke.

It has hosted the works of David Hockney, Chinwe Russell, Eduardo Paolozzi, as well as the Natural History Museum’s prestigious Wildlife Photographer Of The Year, and leading contemporary artist Kurt Jackson. Oh, and there’s plenty of arty superstars lined up too. It’s all a bit top secret, so you’ll have to watch this space. What I can tell you is that it’s good. Really good.

In addition to the 110sqm exhibition space, upstairs you’ll find a light and bright workshop, perfect for a range of creative classes and craft courses, many of which are tied into the exhibitions. Participant numbers are small and offer something for a variety of ages across many disciplines.

The Base is also home to eight local artists and craft makers in accessible studios, as well as Open Studios West Berkshire and North Hampshire who present their annual INSIGHT exhibition here every May. Whether you’re admiring the art or taking part, it can be thirsty work, so be sure to stop by the onsite Honesty Café (with outdoor seating).

Keep an eye out too for their infamous annual Festival of Arts & Crafts and Winter Craft Fairs, both of which bring you the best of the best when it comes to artists and makers toting their wares.