The South Yorkshire town of Barnsley was built on coal mining and glassmaking, and today the old glassworks still look over the town, offering a reminder of its industrial history. Today, the town is an ideal mix of old and new, with historic parkland, 17th-century workhouses and an iconic town hall sitting alongside modern shops, bars and restaurants.

Visiting Barnsley

Visiting Barnsley

No trip to Barnsley is complete without a leisurely wander around its historic markets. Over 700 years old and home to more than 300 stalls, Barnsley Market is the place to find just about anything - fresh fruit and vegetables, fish and locally sourced meat, flowers, carpets, cosmetics and coffee. We dare you to leave empty-handed.

If you're looking for a more modern shopping experience, Barnsley is also home to a lively town centre, where independent shops, bars and cafes mix with high-street giants such as Marks and Spencer, Topshop and Next.

There's much more to Barnsley than shopping, however. The striking town hall, just five minutes from the station, is home to the Experience Barnsley exhibition, which takes you on an interactive tour through Barnsley's past, featuring centuries-old artefacts, films and vintage photographs.

Finally, there's another aspect of Barnsley's heritage you don't want to miss - the town is home to masses of traditional brass bands, which perform at clubs, pubs and bandstands throughout the area. These bands, which were celebrated in the 1996 film Brassed Off, aren't just entertaining. They're also a reminder of Barnsley's industrial heritage, having originally been formed in the town's social clubs and mining communities.

Planning to visit more cities in South Yorkshire by train? Check out our dedicated page to South Yorkshire trains.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main train station in Barnsley?

The main train station in Barnsley is Barnsley railway station. Check out live arrivals and station facilities for Barnsley railway station.

Which train companies run trains to Barnsley?

The primary operator of trains to Barnsley is Northern.

How do I find cheap tickets to Barnsley?

It's easy to bag cheap train tickets to Barnsley. We'd recommend using a Railcard, buying your ticket in advance or travelling during Off-Peak hours if you can. Read our cheap train tickets guide to find out more.

Are trains to Barnsley running?

There are frequent daily services to Barnsley, although there may be fewer services on weekends and bank holidays. Check our live train times for up-to-date information on trains to Barnsley.

Average savings on advance fares booked at least one week before day of travel vs Anytime fares purchased on day of travel. Subject to availability. Excludes coach.

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