A guide to the best free events, fun activities and evening entertainment for art and culture lovers in Barnsley.
Autumn has arrived in Barnsley, and there’s so much to do across the borough — especially if you love arts and culture!
Whether you’re looking for fun events or evening entertainment, there’s something for everyone. From art galleries to comedy clubs, you'll find it here.
Read on to find out how to liven up your autumn in Barnsley.
A VIBRANT HUB FOR ART LOVERS
Barnsley is rich in culture with fantastic galleries, museums and historic sites.
Make a day of it and immerse yourself in art exhibitions, events and history this autumn.
Cooper Gallery
The gallery has been located in Barnsley town centre since 1914 and is free to visit.
Discover stunning art and new exhibitions including a collection of illustrations from renowned children's author Brian Wildsmith.
You can also enjoy a delicious lunch in their café, explore the gardens and purchase a memento in their gift shop.
Opening times: Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm.
Barnsley Civic
Visitors may know of the Barnsley Civic as a theatre (more on that later) but it also hosts superb art exhibitions throughout the year.
The stunning historic building has also undergone a £3.5m regeneration which has seen the opening of its front doors on Eldon Street for the first time since 1998.
Currently in the gallery, you can explore a remarkable collection by the pioneering American artist Georgia O’Keeffe as well as a vibrant exhibit from Barnsley-based artist, Ailish Treanor.
MAKE A NIGHT OF IT
Experience the magic of theatre and live comedy in Barnsley this Autumn!
Enjoy unforgettable moments in cozy surroundings at our fantastic performance venues across the town centre.
Lamproom Theatre
Celebrating their 25th anniversary this year, 'The People's Theatre', as it's affectionately known, has a packed schedule of performances this autumn.
From music tribute acts including Take That and Elton John to musicals and stage shows including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The Vicar of Dibley, there's something for everyone.
Grab a drink in the bar beforehand and then sit back, relax and enjoy the show in the atmospheric theatre within the beautiful Grade II listed building on Westgate.
View their full autumn line-up.
Barnsley Civic
We've mentioned the Barnsley Civic earlier in this article but now it's time to talk about their theatre offer.
Don't miss comedy nights, ABBA tributes and talks from big names such as Shaun Ryder in a thrilling autumn line-up.
Find out what's on at the Barnsley Civic.
Parkway Cinema
An arts and culture trip wouldn't be complete without a visit to the cinema.
The Parkway on Eldon Street, is Barnsley town centre's independent cinema and is one of only a handful of cinemas in the country to still show 35mm and 70mm film.
Not only that, but the family-run business, also has live theatre in its historic auditorium.
Find out more about what's on at the Parkway Cinema.
The Comedy Shop
The home of live comedy in Barnsley town centre.
This intimate venue on Graham's Orchard makes for a brilliant night out with award winning comedians performing at their monthly stand-up evenings.
Comedians such as Billy Pearce and Paul Tonkinson have already graced the stage, with Chrissy Rock set to appear in 2025.
MAKE IT CREATIVE
Discover the charm of Barnsley this autumn!
Join creative workshops and unleash your inner artist with local handmakers. Browse local craft shops and create your own unique masterpiece.
Heart of Handmade
If you're looking for unique handmade items and original art, Heart of Handmade is a must visit.
The shop has recently moved into new premises on The Victorian Arcade and they also offer a range of workshops including weekly after school arts and craft sessions, crochet circles and more.
View their full workshop calendar.
J&K Wood Gallery
Talented brothers John and Kevin, are the owners of this excellent gallery on Regent Street.
Browse their amazing range of artwork, all of which is created in their workshop located above the gallery.
You can purchase stunning paintings of life in Yorkshire, a perfect gift for a birthday or Christmas.
Made and Found Yorkshire
This gift shop located in The Glass Works showcases 25 local businesses from in and around Barnsley.
They are all stocked up ahead of Halloween with signs, stained glass and cards to help you celebrate spooky season!
Visit their Facebook page to view their products.
