Things to Do in Barnsley

A modern museum inside the Town Hall that tells Barnsley's story from prehistoric times through coal mining and the present day. Hands-on exhibits for children.

🕐 Monday–Saturday 10am–4pm; closed Sundays

💡 Go on a Saturday morning – there's often a free craft activity for kids set up near the entrance.

A small art gallery housing the permanent collection of Barnsley-born artist Ernest Cooper, plus changing contemporary exhibitions in a Victorian building.

🕐 Tuesday–Saturday 10am–4pm; closed Sunday–Monday

💡 Check their website for the free lunchtime talks on the first Thursday of each month – no booking needed.

The preserved winding engine and headstocks of Barnsley Main Colliery, the last deep coal mine in the area. A small information board explains the site's history.

🕐 External area always open; engine house open Saturdays 10am–2pm

💡 Visit on a weekday afternoon when the volunteer guide is usually on site – they can show you inside the engine house.

A working 17th-century water mill set in 240 acres of parkland with woodland, a reservoir and a network of footpaths. The mill grinds flour on demonstration days.

🕐 Park open daily 8am–dusk; mill open Saturday–Sunday 10am–4pm (free, but donations welcome)

💡 Feed the ducks at the millpond, then walk the circular path around the reservoir – takes about 40 minutes at a steady pace.

An 18th-century country house with fine furniture, paintings and glassware, set in 70 acres of parkland. The gardens include a walled kitchen garden and a playground.

🕐 Grounds open daily 8am–dusk; museum open Tuesday–Sunday 10am–4pm

💡 Pack a picnic and head for the lakeside meadow – quieter than the main lawn, with good views of the hall.