With its green spaces, nature reserves, woodlands and walking trails, Barnsley has always been a go-to place for outdoor adventurers of all ages. Just a short distance from the Peak District, and crossed by the Trans Pennine Trail, visitors can explore some of the best of Yorkshire from Barnsley – whether it's for an afternoon ramble or a week-long camping escape.

Read on to learn about how to make the most of the great outdoors in Barnsley.

PEDAL (OR STEP) YOUR WAY TO ADVENTURE

For cyclists or walkers looking to explore the outdoors, Barnsley has a lot to offer. 

The Trans Pennine Trail runs from coast to coast across the North of England, crossing through Barnsley. With (mostly) flat paths, comprehensive signage, scenic landscapes and historic sites along the way, it’s become a preferred route for cyclists and walkers of all ages. You can join the trail at various points in Barnsley, such as Elsecar, Wombwell or Penistone. 

Another brilliant route is The Penistone Line Trail, which runs from Sheffield to Huddersfield and follows the rivers Dearne and Don. This trail covers varied landscapes from farmlands and canal towpaths to urban woods, packhorse trails and disused railways. If you’re looking to explore the area over a weekend, the historic hotel Cubley Hall is a great place to stay, with bicycle storage too. Or stop in for a drink at their dog-friendly pub.

Heading to Barnsley South? For an easy trail you can walk in under an hour, try the Worsbrough Reservoir and Mill Park Circular route. It takes you around the reservoir’s perimeter and passes through meadowlands on well-maintained cycle paths and walkways.

PITCH UP OR GLAMP OUT

With its proximity to the Peak District, it's no surprise that Barnsley has become popular for camping. And when it comes to campsites, there are varied options to suit everyone’s style!

Greensprings Touring Park is located in the picturesque Pennine Foothills, just on the outskirts of Wentworth Castle Gardens’ historic Stainborough deer park. Suitable for tents, caravans, motorhomes and small campervans, it’s the ideal spot to explore the area. And just a 45-minute, scenic walk to Wentworth Castle Gardens café!

In Silkstone, you’ll find the Sunnyside Eco Caravan; a solar-powered vintage caravan based in a meadow less than half a mile’s walk from the Trans Pennine Trail. It’s just a 20-minute drive from Cannon Hall and Yorkshire Sculpture Park and offers something a bit different to the norm – with reflexology and Indian head massage available to book onsite!

Also located near Silkstone is Broad Close Farm, where you can pitch up a tent on their campsite and enjoy woodland or meadow views. They also offer two Shepherd’s Huts and a bell tent to book; ideal for a cosy getaway for those who prefer glamping. 

WANDER GLORIOUS GARDENS

For a combination of gardens, woodland and parkland steeped in history, Wentworth Castle Gardens is a must-visit. Created in the 18th century, Wentworth Castle Gardens is the only Grade-I registered landscape in South Yorkshire and has welcomed visitors from around the world. 

Stroll through three hundred years of changing garden design and enjoy a picnic on the grass by the hilltop folly. Or explore 500 acres of parkland, where you can spot fallow and red deer. For a bite to eat or a hot drink, pop into the Long Barn Café where they serve breakfast, lunch, cakes and more. 
Just a 20-minute drive away (approximately 50 minutes if you’re cycling) is Cannon Hall Museum Park and Gardens. The outdoor space is home to hundreds of varieties of flowers, plants, trees, beautiful greenery and 70 acres of historic parkland. 

It’s perfect for an afternoon with friends or family and dog-friendly too. If you’re feeling hungry you can enjoy lunch in the outdoor area of The Pear Tree Pantry, located inside the walled gardens of the hall. 

EXPERIENCE WILDLIFE

Barnsley is home to beautiful country parks and nature reserves where you can wander riverside paths and experience wildlife. 

Located less than a mile from Barnsley Town Centre is Dearne Valley Park -- an 80-hectare park with wet woodlands and grasslands to explore. Open throughout the year, the whole family can enjoy lunch at picnic benches and a kid’s play area. It can also be accessed via the Trans Pennine Trail, making it a popular stop for cyclists and walkers. 
Barnsley West is also home to RSPB – Old Moor. This family-friendly nature reserve is ideal for wildlife watching (including Kingfisher-spotting!) and wandering through its wetland habitats. RSPB – Old Moor also features an adventure playground for kids; stop by their visitor centre to pick up activity sheets, discovery backpacks and – from April to the end of October – pond dipping kits. 

If you’re heading to Barnsley West, Scout Dike Reservoir should be on your list of places to visit. Take a medium length walk around the perimeter or do some fishing with Barnsley Trout Club. It’s just a short drive to Ingbirchworth Reservoir, where you can enjoy views from the 19th-century dam wall and observe the thriving bird life. 

Looking for somewhere to stay after a day exploring nature? The ibis Styles in Dodworth is the perfect place to relax with family. It’s pet-friendly too, so your four-legged friend can join in on your outdoor adventure.

Click here to find more things to do in Barnsley.