A Two-day Culture Trip in Barnsley
A Two-day Culture Trip in Barnsley
Perfect for: Individuals, Couples, Groups
Discover Barnsley’s rich cultural heritage with this two-day itinerary. Explore historic sites, enjoy delicious local cuisine and immerse yourself in the region's vibrant history and art. Perfect for culture seekers looking to experience the best of Barnsley.
Begin your culture trip with breakfast at The Cooper Gallery Café and go on to explore exhibitions within The Cooper Gallery itself. The gallery houses a stunning collection of fine art, including paintings, ceramics and sculptures. With exhibitions changing regularly, there's always something new to see. The gallery also offers workshops and talks, making it an engaging experience for art enthusiasts.
Spend your morning wandering through the various exhibits for children and adults and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The gallery’s intimate setting allows for a personal connection with the artwork, making it a must-visit for any culture vulture.
Good To Know Before you Go
Accessibility
Fully accessible with wheelchair-friendly facilities and lift.
Eating Here
The cafe offers a delightful selection of breakfast options — from freshly baked pastries to hearty English breakfasts.
Getting Here
Located on Church Street, Barnsley Town Centre it is easily accessible by foot or public transport.
Opening Times
Monday to Saturday - 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Accessibility
Fully accessible with wheelchair-friendly facilities and lift.
Eating Here
The cafe offers a delightful selection of breakfast options — from freshly baked pastries to hearty English breakfasts.
Getting Here
Located on Church Street, Barnsley Town Centre it is easily accessible by foot or public transport.
Opening Times
Monday to Saturday - 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Head out the front doors of Cooper Gallery and you'll stumble upon the Experience Barnsley Museum & Discovery Centre, located in the iconic Town Hall. This interactive museum brings Barnsley’s rich history to life with engaging exhibits that cover everything from the town’s industrial heritage to its cultural contributions. It’s a fascinating place for both adults and children, offering a variety of hands-on activities, play areas and displays.
Spend your morning exploring the diverse exhibits and learning about the town's history. The museum also features temporary exhibitions and events, so there is always something new to discover.
Good To Know Before you Go
Accessibility
Fully accessible with wheelchair-friendly facilities and baby changing stations.
Eating Here
Stop at The Old George cafe, conveniently located within the Town Hall. This quaint café offers a variety of delicious sandwiches, salads and homemade cakes.
Getting Here
Located at Barnsley Town Hall, it is easily accessible by foot, car, or public transport.
Opening Times
Monday to Saturday - 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Accessibility
Fully accessible with wheelchair-friendly facilities and baby changing stations.
Eating Here
Stop at The Old George cafe, conveniently located within the Town Hall. This quaint café offers a variety of delicious sandwiches, salads and homemade cakes.
Getting Here
Located at Barnsley Town Hall, it is easily accessible by foot, car, or public transport.
Opening Times
Monday to Saturday - 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Take a short detour on your way to your next activity for a gander through Locked in Time Antiques in Dodworth. This treasure trove is perfect for antique lovers, offering a wide range of vintage and collectable items. From furniture to jewellery, the shop is packed with unique finds that tell stories of the past. The friendly staff are knowledgeable and always ready to share the history behind their pieces.
The shop is also a vintage tea room offering food and drinks to enjoy while you browse. Perhaps you'll find a special memento to take home within this fascinating stop that adds a touch of nostalgia to your cultural itinerary.
Good To Know Before you Go
Accessibility
Limited accessibility; please call ahead to discuss specific needs.
Eating Here
The vintage tea room offers tea and coffees, sweet treats and lunch time specials, catering to dietary requirements.
Getting Here
Located along the High Street in Dodworth it is easily accessed via car, train and bus links from Barnsley.
Opening Times
Wednesday - Saturday - 10:30AM - 3:30PM
Accessibility
Limited accessibility; please call ahead to discuss specific needs.
Eating Here
The vintage tea room offers tea and coffees, sweet treats and lunch time specials, catering to dietary requirements.
Getting Here
Located along the High Street in Dodworth it is easily accessed via car, train and bus links from Barnsley.
Opening Times
Wednesday - Saturday - 10:30AM - 3:30PM
After your pit stop antiquing, make your way to Cannon Hall Museum — a Georgian country house set in stunning parklands. The museum boasts a diverse collection of fine and decorative arts, including furniture, glassware and ceramics. The house itself is a work of art, with beautifully restored rooms that reflect the elegance of the Georgian era.
The surrounding parklands and gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering picturesque views and a peaceful environment. Don’t miss the Hall’s Victorian kitchen and the impressive collection of Regimental Museum artifacts.
Good to Know Before you Go
Accessibility
Baby changing facilities and accessible toilets are available across the grounds. Accessible parking and drop-off areas are available at the Hall. Paid parking downhill from the Hall next to the cafe and play area. Guide dogs welcome.
Eating Here
There are two delicious cafes onsite and plenty of outdoor space for you to bring your own picnic.
Getting Here
Located at Bark House Lane, Cawthorne, Barnsley, accessible by car with parking available. Bus links from Barnsley.
Opening Times
Hall open Thursday to Sunday - 11:00AM - 4:00PM
Accessibility
Baby changing facilities and accessible toilets are available across the grounds. Accessible parking and drop-off areas are available at the Hall. Paid parking downhill from the Hall next to the cafe and play area. Guide dogs welcome.
Eating Here
There are two delicious cafes onsite and plenty of outdoor space for you to bring your own picnic.
Getting Here
Located at Bark House Lane, Cawthorne, Barnsley, accessible by car with parking available. Bus links from Barnsley.
Opening Times
Hall open Thursday to Sunday - 11:00AM - 4:00PM
After your day of cultural exploration, enjoy dinner at Beatson House Restaurant in the village of Cawthorne. This elegant restaurant, set in a 200-year-old building, offers a refined dining experience with a menu that highlights local and seasonal ingredients. The cosy, historic setting provides a perfect ambience for a relaxing evening meal.
The attentive service and exquisite dishes make Beatson House a standout choice for a memorable dining experience. Be sure to book in advance, as this popular spot fills up quickly — especially on weekends.
Good to Know Before you Go
Accessibility
Limited accessibility; please call ahead to discuss specific needs.
Eating Here
Caters to adults with vegetarian options and a kid-friendly menu available.
Getting Here
2 Darton Road, Cawthorne, accessible by car with parking available, links via bus to Barnsley.
Opening Times
Wednesday to Saturday - 6:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Sunday - 12:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Accessibility
Limited accessibility; please call ahead to discuss specific needs.
Eating Here
Caters to adults with vegetarian options and a kid-friendly menu available.
Getting Here
2 Darton Road, Cawthorne, accessible by car with parking available, links via bus to Barnsley.
Opening Times
Wednesday to Saturday - 6:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Sunday - 12:00 PM - 5:30 PM
End your day with an overnight stay at Wortley Hall, a grand stately home offering a unique blend of history and hospitality. The hall features beautifully decorated rooms, extensive gardens and a fascinating history dating back to the 16th century. Staying here provides an immersive cultural experience, as you can explore the hall’s historic rooms and learn about its storied past.
Enjoy a nightcap in the elegant bar before retiring to your comfortable room. Wortley Hall’s serene surroundings and historical significance make it a perfect cultural retreat.
Good To Know Before you Go
Accessibility
Fully accessible with wheelchair-friendly rooms and facilities.
Eating Here
Breakfast at Wortley Hall is included with your stay, there is also the option to eat in the Restaurant or have a snack in the bar.
Getting Here
Located at Wortley Village, accessible by car with ample parking, links by bus to Barnsley & Sheffield.
Check-In/Check-Out
- Check-in after 3:00 PM
- Check-out by 11:00 AM
Accessibility
Fully accessible with wheelchair-friendly rooms and facilities.
Eating Here
Breakfast at Wortley Hall is included with your stay, there is also the option to eat in the Restaurant or have a snack in the bar.
Getting Here
Located at Wortley Village, accessible by car with ample parking, links by bus to Barnsley & Sheffield.
Check-In/Check-Out
- Check-in after 3:00 PM
- Check-out by 11:00 AM
As you make your way to start your second day, get your caffeine fix at Mrs. Hudson’s vintage tea room and coffee shop in Wombwell. This café offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a menu full of delicious food options and freshly brewed coffee in a shabby chic Victorian setting.
The friendly service and cosy setting make Mrs Hudson’s a favourite among locals and visitors alike. It's a perfect spot to fuel up for another day of cultural exploration.
Good To Know Before you Go
Accessibility
Limited accessibility; please call ahead to discuss specific needs.
Eating Here
The vintage tea room offers tea and coffees, sweet treats and lunch time specials, catering to dietary requirements.
Getting Here
Located on the High Street in Wombwell you can get here via car or bus links from Barnsley.
Opening Times
Monday - Saturday - 9:00AM - 3:00PM
Accessibility
Limited accessibility; please call ahead to discuss specific needs.
Eating Here
The vintage tea room offers tea and coffees, sweet treats and lunch time specials, catering to dietary requirements.
Getting Here
Located on the High Street in Wombwell you can get here via car or bus links from Barnsley.
Opening Times
Monday - Saturday - 9:00AM - 3:00PM
Just a short drive from Wombwell you'll discover Elsecar Heritage Centre, a fascinating complex of historic buildings that once formed part of the industrial village of Elsecar. The Heritage Centre includes a Visitor Centre, Railway, and the Elsecar Ironworks, offering a glimpse into Barnsley’s industrial past.
Learn about the site’s history and its significance in the region’s industrial heritage, then drop into some of the many antique and independent shops that now call it home. The centre also hosts a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year, making it a fun place to visit for all.
Good To Know Before you Go
Accessibility
Baby changing facilities and accessible toilets. Hearing loop availability and Guide Dog friendly. Cobbled walkways with accessible paths.
Eating Here
There are two cafes, an ice-cream shop and a sweet shop all within Elsecar Heritage centre. And Playmania has a lovely cafe with food and drink available all day.
Getting Here
There are excellent bus (number 66) and train links to Elsecar from Barnsley & Sheffield. By Car it is just a short drive from the M1, junction 36 and access is also available from the Trans Pennine Trail.
Opening Times
Monday - Sunday - 10:00AM - 4:00PM
Accessibility
Baby changing facilities and accessible toilets. Hearing loop availability and Guide Dog friendly. Cobbled walkways with accessible paths.
Eating Here
There are two cafes, an ice-cream shop and a sweet shop all within Elsecar Heritage centre. And Playmania has a lovely cafe with food and drink available all day.
Getting Here
There are excellent bus (number 66) and train links to Elsecar from Barnsley & Sheffield. By Car it is just a short drive from the M1, junction 36 and access is also available from the Trans Pennine Trail.
Opening Times
Monday - Sunday - 10:00AM - 4:00PM
Not too far from Elsecar, you'll experience the perfect combination of nature and history at Worsbrough Mill and Country Park. This 17th-century working water mill offers a fascinating glimpse into Barnsley's industrial past, with demonstrations of traditional milling techniques and the opportunity to purchase freshly milled flour. The mill itself is a beautifully preserved piece of history, and the knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide engaging insights into its operation and significance.
After exploring the mill, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque country park. Covering over 240 acres, it features a serene reservoir, diverse wildlife habitats and scenic walking trails. Need a break? The on-site Millers Tea Room provides a cosy setting to relax and recharge before continuing your cultural journey through Barnsley.
Good to Know Before you Go
Accessibility
The café, Visitor Centre and shop are wheelchair accessible. There is an accessible toilet opposite the café.
Eating Here
Enjoy a range of refreshments, from hearty lunches to homemade cakes at Millers Tea Room.
Getting Here
There are excellent bus links from Barnsley and Sheffield which run past the Mill entrance. There is a car park at Worsbrough Mill, parking charges apply.
Opening Times
Mill
- Thursday to Sunday - 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Country Park
- Open daily, from dawn to dusk
Accessibility
The café, Visitor Centre and shop are wheelchair accessible. There is an accessible toilet opposite the café.
Eating Here
Enjoy a range of refreshments, from hearty lunches to homemade cakes at Millers Tea Room.
Getting Here
There are excellent bus links from Barnsley and Sheffield which run past the Mill entrance. There is a car park at Worsbrough Mill, parking charges apply.
Opening Times
Mill
- Thursday to Sunday - 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Country Park
- Open daily, from dawn to dusk
Finish your two-day cultural adventure by heading to Monk Bretton Priory, one of South Yorkshire’s most impressive English Heritage sites. Founded in the 12th century, this former Cluniac monastery offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval life. As you wander through the atmospheric ruins, you'll encounter the remnants of the priory’s church, cloisters and living quarters — each with its own story to tell.
The extensive grounds are perfect for a stroll, and interpretive signs provide insights into the daily lives of the monks who once lived here. The tranquil setting and well-preserved ruins make it an ideal spot for history buffs and those looking to explore Barnsley's cultural heritage. Monk Bretton Priory is also a photographer’s delight, with its ancient stone structures set against the backdrop of lush greenery. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture or simply enjoying a peaceful walk, Monk Bretton Priory is a must-visit destination on your cultural tour of Barnsley.
Good to Know Before you Go
Accessibility
Partially accessible; the grounds are generally flat but some areas may be uneven. There are no specific facilities for wheelchair users.
Eating Here
The perfect sport for a picturesque picnic.
Getting Here
Located on Abbey Lane, Barnsley, accessible by bus from Barnsley, or car with parking available nearby.
Opening Times
Open daily - 10:00AM - 3:00PM
Accessibility
Partially accessible; the grounds are generally flat but some areas may be uneven. There are no specific facilities for wheelchair users.
Eating Here
The perfect sport for a picturesque picnic.
Getting Here
Located on Abbey Lane, Barnsley, accessible by bus from Barnsley, or car with parking available nearby.
Opening Times
Open daily - 10:00AM - 3:00PM
"If you can't get in Barnsley, you can't get it."
Paul Bates, Keith's Quality Meats
Keith's Quality Meats is a traditional butcher’s stall selling locally sourced beef, pork and lamb. Established in 1990, they’re a three-times winner of the Barnsley Civic Trust Retail Awards.
"I love the vibrancy of Barnsley. I love the friendliness of everyone. I love the variety of things that you can do."
Devinia Skirrow, Experience Barnsley
Experience Barnsley is a local history museum focusing on heritage and culture. Based in Barnsley town hall, it's a place to discover the stories of the town and borough.
"I just love being here. I think it's a very vibrant town centre."
Maggie Marsden, member of Mark Mark Productions Theatre
Markmark is one of Britain's leading festival and street theatre companies. They have a reputation for developing engaging street-spectacles and shows.
"It's quite a nice place for people to kind of come together and be creative."
Charlotte Pierce, Member of Barnsley Youth Choir
Formed in 2009, Barnsley Youth Choir is a registered charity that provides choral training to over 450 young people, aged 4-24 years old.
"Barnsley's the place to be. And we've always got summat happening!"
Joe Beardsall, YouTube Creator 'Red All Over'
Red All Over is the football community show for Barnsley supporters and all football fans. It’s a place for Barnsley fans to laugh, chat about the Reds, and go behind the scenes at Oakwell.
"I just think it's the place to be at the minute!"
Victoria Prendergast, Community Engagement Officer, Barnsley FC Community Trust
Barnsley FC Community Trust is a registered charity delivering community and charitable activities on behalf of Barnsley Football Club; using the power of football and Barnsley Football Club to engage and improve the lives of local people.