24 July 2026
The school holidays have arrived – which means so has the annual challenge of keeping the kids entertained over the summer!
Fortunately, in our borough, you don’t have to travel far or spend a fortune to find something to do.
Take Cannon Hall, for example. If you fancy a spot of fresh air and a bit of culture, you’d be hard pressed to find a better location for a cracking family day out. My family have had some fantastic times at Cannon Hall Farm over the years, and Cannon Hall Museum offers an educational but entertaining experience for adults as well as kids.
In fact, all our museums do – and Experience Barnsley, Elsecar Heritage Centre, Worsbrough Mill and the Cooper Gallery all have free activities running throughout the summer.
Experience Barnsley is also hosting its Cleopatra and the Queens of Egypt exhibition, bringing one of history’s most interesting periods to the heart of Barnsley. Running until February 2027, it’s well worth a visit.
For youngsters with energy to burn, Barnsley’s Healthy Holiday Clubs run from 27 July to 21 August across the borough. There’s football in Athersley, gymnastics in Carlton, swimming in Royston and much more – a chance to get active, make friends and, hopefully, arrive home tired!
Then, on 11 August, Locke Park hosts its Summer Play Day, with another packed day of activities for children.
Creative youngsters aren’t forgotten either. Barnsley Civic is running a free summer art club for children aged 8 to 11 who enjoy drawing, painting and making things.
Budding performers can also take to the stage at the Civic’s open mic night tonight at 17:30.
Since many of Yorkshire’s finest green spaces are within our reach, let’s hope the sun keeps shining.
Pack a picnic for Locke Park, wander around Monk Bretton Priory, or spend the day at Yorkshire Sculpture Park. Pot House Hamlet in Silkstone is another great spot for a walk, something to eat, and a browse around its independent shops.
Wentworth Castle Gardens is hosting its Summer of Play, with a fairytale castle, secret gardens and acres of space for children to explore and let their imaginations loose.
There’s plenty happening in the town centre, too. Barnsley Pride returns to Mandela Gardens tomorrow for what promises to be another colourful celebration of our borough’s welcoming and inclusive spirit.
And summer wouldn’t be summer without a proper local fete or gala.
Cudworth’s Tea in the Park returns tomorrow, with Darton Family Fun Day following on 22 August.
Events like these don’t happen by accident. They rely on dedicated volunteers giving up their time to bring communities together – and they deserve our thanks and support.
So, whatever the weather decides to throw at us, I hope you get the chance to slow down, recharge the batteries, and enjoy some of what Barnsley has to offer.
Have a great summer.