AS families across Barnsley will know, the Easter holidays are now well underway.
I hope you’re managing to find a bit of time to unwind and enjoy these brighter spring days with your loved ones.
For many parents and guardians, the school break can feel like a juggling act - but thankfully, there’s no shortage of brilliant, affordable things to see and do across our borough this Easter.
If you’re out and about in the town centre, the Glass Works’ Easter trail is running until April 12.
It’s free, fun for all ages, and your little ones can hunt for colourful eggs and even a golden bunny, with the chance to enter a £50 Barnsley Gift Card prize draw. Trail maps can be collected from Barnsley Market’s customer service desk.
Spring is also the perfect time to visit Cannon Hall Farm, which is always a favourite with my family. Lambing season is now in full swing, with daily talks, introductions to new arrivals, and the chance to see the action in the roundhouse.
Tickets are available throughout the holidays, with full access to the farm and playgrounds.
Across our museums, there’s a strong programme of hands‑on holiday activities. From clay workshops inspired by Ancient Egypt at Experience Barnsley on April 8, to nature‑themed crafts and trails at Worsbrough Mill on April 10, there’s something for all ages.
Do you know any history buffs? If so, they might enjoy seeing Barnsley’s unique industrial story come to life with a live demonstration of the world’s oldest atmospheric engine still in its original location, at Elsecar Heritage Centre, on April 5.
For families needing structured childcare or support, Barnsley Council’s Healthy Holidays programme continues until April 10, offering free sports and craft activities for eligible children.
Sessions are hosted in venues across the borough - including Shaw Lane Sports Club, Elsecar Community Nursery, Greenfields Primary, Barnsley Baptist Church, and the Barnsley College SciTech Centre.
Sessions run from 9am to 3pm, must be pre‑booked, and include a free healthy meal each day
If you simply fancy getting out into nature, our borough is blessed with parks, trails, and green spaces - from the scenic grounds at Wentworth Castle Gardens to peaceful walks across Worsbrough Mill and the surrounding countryside.
Another stand-out option this Easter is Base 71, Barnsley’s own state-of-the-art youth zone.
It boasts: an indoor climbing wall, a four-court sports hall, a fitness suite, boxing and martial arts rooms, a performing arts and dance studio, a music and recording suite, arts and crafts rooms, sensory spaces, film and multi-media facilities, a teaching kitchen, and a large recreation area.
If that wasn’t enough, hot nutritious meals are available there for £1.
Finally, if you haven’t seen them already, why not venture out to see our new Yorkshire Roses at the Seam Digital Campus? They helped Barnsley become the UK’s first official Tech Town, unlocking new investment, and they’re well worth a visit.
Whatever you choose to do over the next few days, I hope you find time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the company of family and friends.
Happy Easter!
