Summer has arrived in Barnsley, and there’s so much to do across the borough — especially for kids!  

Whether you’re looking for fun free events or nighttime entertainment that’s family-friendly, there’s something to suit everyone. From music and food festivals to outdoor activities and so much more.  

Read on to find out what makes the summer months so great for families in Barnsley.  
 

FREE FUN ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN

Guardians of Bird Island at Cannon Hall Park and Gardens  

For an afternoon exploring art outdoors, Guardians of Bird Island should be on your list! This exciting new sculptural trail was developed through workshops at Cannon Hall, local schools and the community.  

The artwork, which includes nine sculptures overlooking the lake and along the woodland bank, is accompanied by an interactive story walk where children can learn about the guardians of the birds on ‘Bird Island’.  

It’s free to visit and is open from 11am-3.30pm, running until Friday 30 August.  

Click here to find out more about the Guardians of the Bird Island at Cannon Hall Park and Gardens.  

Elsecar by the Sea Trail 

From exploring independent shops to wandering along the waterside, there’s so much to do with the family at Elsecar Heritage Centre. And this summer, they’re hosting the Elsecar by the Sea Trail!  

Inspired by the incredible story of the ‘seaside resort at the heart of the Yorkshire coalfield’, this free activity can be enjoyed by kids of all ages, as you search out hidden seaside objects and collect words to put together the popular summer song. 

Taking place from Tuesday 23 July to Sunday 1 September, you can drop into the Elsecar Heritage Centre during opening hours to get started. 

Click here to find out more about Elsecar by the Sea Trail. 

Scavenger Hunt and Treasure Seekers at Experience Barnsley 

There’s treasure to be found for children at Experience Barnsley this summer!  

Drop in from Tuesday 23 July to Saturday 31 August for a free scavenger hunt at the museum, where you can search for wild and wonderful objects and treasures.  

Or pop by between 10.30am to 2pm on Friday 26 July for their Treasure Seekers event, where you can find even more treasure and make some of your own to take home. 

Click here for more information on the Scavenger Hunt and click here to find out more about the Treasure Seekers event. 

LEISURE ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN

The Teeny Time Travellers Club 

Looking to entertain your littlest ones?  The Teeny Time Travellers Club is the place to be. 

Held each Friday during term time at Experience Barnsley, in this interactive session your under-fives can play, explore, make, share stories and sing! 

The Teeny Time Travellers Club is £5 to attend, with both morning and afternoon sessions available. The theme changes weekly, so it’s worth checking out our Events page to find out what this Friday has in store for them. 

Click here to see our Events page. 

Little Listeners: Mini Vixen 

Opera North are proud to present Little Listeners: Mini Vixen at Cannon Hall in July! 

This 40-minute interactive production for families tells the charming story of a newly-found friendship between a Vixen and a fox who discover the power of working together to protect their habitat.  

The performance takes place on Tuesday 30 and Wednesday 31 July, with doors opening from 1pm.  

Click here to book your spot to Little Listeners: Mini Vixen. 

Nature fun at Worsbrough Mill  

Worsbrough Mill is brilliant all year round, but this summer they’re inviting families to explore nature up close!  

Pop by between Tuesday 20 and Tuesday 27 August for Leaf Magic, where kids can follow the leaf trail to learn more about leaves and spot species living within the trees.  

Or if you’re looking for a crafty activity, check out Enchanted Envelopes and Pebble Poems! With sessions on Thursday 22 and Thursday 29 August, little ones can make their own messages for woodland sprites and fairies using natural materials. Tickets are just £3 per child and are worth booking in advance.  

Click here to find out more about Worsbrough Mill. 

Paws, Claws, Tales & Roars 

Join Mama G in a new enchanted forest at The Cooper Gallery this summer, to experience a magical, interactive performance of author and illustrator Brian Wildsmith’s new book! Sessions take place on Thursday 15 August at 11am and 1pm and cost just £3 per child.  

Brian’s Wild Wood will be available to visit in the Sadler room until January, so youngsters can pop by to read, create or simply enjoy the surroundings inspired by Brian’s Wonderful World. 

Click here for more info about Paws, Claws, Tales & Roars. 

Family Fun at Wigfield Farm 

Wigfield Farm is great for families at any time of year, especially during the summer months! 

Meet (and feed) animals including meerkats, cows, alpacas, sheep, donkeys, rabbits and more. Spend time in the outdoor play area or enjoy lunch and snacks in the café.  

Children under 2 years can visit free all year round, and on weekdays during term time admission is just £2 per person!

Click here to find out more about Family Fun at Wigfield Farm. 

Wentworth Castle Gardens 

There’s lots for children to do at Wentworth Castle Gardens this summer! Their Summer of Play, happening between Saturday 20 July – Sunday 1 September includes everything from outdoor games on the Play Field, to musical play, sensory play and more.  

They’ll be hosting extra activities on selected days throughout the summer months, including archery every Tuesday and the return of their popular teddy zip-line on Thursdays. 

You can bring lunch or purchase a children’s picnic from their café, which can be enjoyed in their outdoor picnic area. And if the weather isn’t on your side, head to the children’s Reading Room in the Long Barn where you’ll find a great selection of children’s books.  

Click here to find out more about Wentworth Castle Gardens. 

EVENING ENTERTAINMENT FOR CHILDREN (UNDER 16)

Underneath the Stars Music Festival 

Summer is festival season and Barnsley’s Underneath the Stars Music Festival is open to the whole family.  

Taking place between Friday 2 to Sunday 4 August, their family activities include everything from workshops in the Farm Tent, to circus fun at the Panic Circus, storytelling, cartoon drawing and more. As always, there’s an incredible music line-up and delicious food from a variety of traders.  

Camp for the weekend as a family or attend for the day; the choice is completely up to you! 

Click here to find out more about Underneath the Stars Music Festival. 

Barnsley Bowl 

Not every summer night will be a warm one. If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity indoors, Barnsley Bowl is always a great choice!  

Located just 5 minutes from the town centre with lots of parking available, their ten-pin bowling experience is suitable for all ages and ability levels. They also serve food and drink all day, including an extensive Children’s Menu. They also host children’s parties, making it the perfect venue for a summer birthday celebration. 

Click here to find out more about Barnsley Bowl. 

Tipi Summer at The Glass Works 

If you’re in Barnsley, a visit to The Glass Works is a must. From Thursday 18 July it’s Tipi Summer — a free-to-enter venue open every day from 11am where you can enjoy a cool drink, live music, summer socials and more.  

It’s a great spot to stop by after a day shopping and exploring — and located close by to lots of family-friendly restaurants like Nando’s, TGI Friday’s and Market Kitchen, or activities like Superbowl, Cineworld or Parkway Cinema! 

Click here for more about Tipi Summer at The Glass Works.  
 

To see everything that’s happening over the summer in Barnsley, visit our What’s On page.