Friday Evening

Make the most of your weekend trip by heading to Barnsley by train on a Friday evening. With routes from places like Leeds, Sheffield and Huddersfield it’s an easy way to travel to our bustling town. 

Once you’ve settled in and dropped off your bags, that’s when the real magic begins. 

Head straight to Market Kitchen in the Glass Works to kick off your adventure with some mouth-watering dishes. With food from around the world, refreshing drinks on offer and a fabulous view overlooking The Glass Works Square, it’s a great way to unwind and start your weekend fun.  

After dinner, take a wander over to the Salt House and The Botanist where you can lounge on their terraces and enjoy craft cocktails in the evening sun. The vibe is just right for a relaxed evening.

Still in the mood to explore? Discover independent bars in the Victorian Arcade such as Sprial City and Jolly Tap on the Arcade, who will be serving up great music and lively atmosphere for you to dance the night away. 

Saturday Morning

After a peaceful rest, head over to the Old Ivy Shed Cheesecakery for a hearty breakfast. It's a cosy spot that will set you up nicely for the day with homemade breakfast options, sweet treats and warming drinks.

One unique feature of Barnsley is that it’s steeped in history wherever you go. A short walk from the Old Ivy Shed Cheesecakery brings you to Barnsley Town Hall, the home of our Experience Barnsley museum. 

Take a second to enjoy the beautiful architecture of the building that dates to the 1930s alongside the outdoor fountains before diving into the history of the borough. On your visit you can learn about the lives that shaped our town through objects, photos, films and stories of our local people.

Only a short five-minute walk away, Cooper Gallery, is a must visit. As your make your way down to the gallery, don’t forget to look at the stunning buildings that make up our town centre. With period features and plenty of personality you get a real sense of the rich history that built Barnsley to the place it is today.  Cooper Gallery is the home to stunning artworks that date all the way back to the 17th Century. They also host regular exhibitions, so this gallery really offers a feast to the eye for art lovers. 

Saturday Afternoon

After your cultural morning, it's time for lunch and there are some fabulous spots close by. You can grab a quick bite to eat at Cooper Gallery café which serves light lunches, delicious drinks in a friendly, casual atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a more restful experience head down to Falco Lounge and enjoy alfresco dining! Their menu is delightful and will give you the energy boost you need for an afternoon of shopping. 

One place you can’t miss on a visit to Barnsley are our famous, award-winning Barnsley Markets. Recently celebrating their 750th birthday, the indoor markets in the town centre have over 100 stalls from local traders each offering unique finds, fresh produce, quality clothing and more.

Try not to lose track of time on your visit to the markets as there’s more! You can find popular retailers in The Glass Works and Alhambra or uncover independent shops down the Victorian Arcade. Each place has its own unique charm and treasures to find.

Saturday Evening

When evening rolls around, you’re in for a treat. 

Transport your tastebuds to Brazil and tuck into global cuisine at local favourite Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill who serve up food with a unique dining experience. With Butterfields bar and The White Bear pub either side, there’s plenty of options to also unwind and grab a refreshing drink.

A great way to round off your day is by soaking up local culture at a show. Barnsley Civic and the Lamproom Theatre offer live music, traditional theatre, comedy nights and more. With their warm atmospheres and eclectic programmes, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of exploration.  

Sunday Morning

As your trip comes to a close, there's still time for one last moment of adventure. Hop on a train to the quaint village of Elsecar and immerse yourself in rich industrial heritage and vibrant local culture. 

Take a leisurely stroll around Elsecar Park and enjoy the beautiful gardens, traditional bandstand and abundance of nature before heading over to Elsecar Heritage Centre. 

This archaeological site is now the home to independent shops, studios, galleries, and cafes. Browse through handmade gifts, beautiful antiques, fabulous artworks and more, and grab a leisurely brunch at one of the cafes. It's the perfect opportunity to reflect on your weekend and maybe even start planning your next visit!

Barnsley really does have a bit of everything – from history and culture to great food and shopping, there’s something for everyone to discover in our hidden Yorkshire town. 

Where to stay?

Close to Barnsley town centre you can find Ibis Styles, which is a 10-minute taxi ride from the train station, or Premier Inn, a 10-minute walk away. These two popular hotels offer a great value, comfortable and relaxing stay for your weekend break, and are close to our recommendations listed in this blog.