THE Gaddum is a cultural gem with a growing reputation for art and food.

Located at Brockhole on Windermere, the Gaddum Gallery is situated on the first floor of Brockhole House. The gallery gives offers the opportunity to see exceptional artworks from Cumbrian artists in what has been described as "The gallery with the best views in the UK." The exhibition programme is curated by a well known and respected figure in the region's arts circles, Sara Last, whose bringing the best local artists to the new contemporary exhibition space in the iconic Arts and Crafts white house. Brockhole House, set in 30 acres of heritage gardens designed by Thomas Mawson, has quickly established itself among Cumbria's lively cultural scene and has staged several successful shows this year, including Daniel Cooper and Marion Kuit. The current show is Creative Contrasts, an exhibition of printmakers Polly Marix Evans and Liz Jones, painters Sarah Taylor, Emma J Lock, Joyce Eldred and Eileen Gledhill and photographer Tricia Meynall, who combine colour, monochrome, abstraction and storytelling to produce a vibrant and exciting show. The venue not only gives visitors the chance to see exceptional artworks, visit an historic property and enjoy the winter garden, now they can relax in Brockhole’s most recent addition - the new Arts and Crafts inspired restaurant The Gaddum and enjoy quality dining. Brockhole and the gallery are open daily 10am-4pm. Admission is free and car parking at Brockhole is free until December 31. Telephone 015394-40250.