Families

Discover five, free heritage attractions and enjoy a whole host of activities for children and young people of all ages.

If you are looking for a great low-cost day out with your family, look no further than Barnsley Museums.

Explore five unique heritage sites, all with free entry and plenty of things to see and do. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, indoor play, or learning something new, there is something for everyone at Barnsley Museums.

Outdoor Adventures

Enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful scenery at Cannon Hall Park and Gardens, where you can wander around the historic parkland, visit fairyland, or let off some steam in the play area. You can also take a ride on the swan boats, follow the Monster Trail, or have a picnic on the lawn. At Worsbrough Mill and Country Park there are acres of stunning nature to explore. Try loads of different walks and trails, packed with wildlife spot something exciting at every turn and enjoy lots of outdoor play.

Interactive play

For rainy days, or when you need a break from the sun, you can head inside and enjoy the interactive exhibits and activities at the museums. At Cannon Hall Museum, you can discover the history of the house and its former residents, dress up in costumes, and play with traditional toys and games. Elsecar Heritage Centre has Playmania, a huge indoor play area with slides, ball pits, climbing frames, and more. You can also browse the shops and cafes, or join a craft workshop. Why not check out Cooper Gallery? Where you can admire the artworks on display, play with puzzles and books, or pick up an art explorer back pack which you can use to explore the galleries.

You can also check out the family-friendly exhibitions and events that are on throughout the year. Explore Experience Barnsley Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of the town, watch films and animations, and try out interactive games and quizzes. You can also dressup, ride in cars and on horses, try out some imaginative play or snuggle in a quiet corner to read.

Free Activities

One of the best things about Barnsley Museums is that they offer free activities for families during the school holidays and throughout the year. You can join in the fun and learn something new with crafts, trails, workshops, storytelling, and more.

View what's on

Accessible Experiences

Barnsley Museums are committed to providing accessible experiences for all families, regardless of their abilities or needs. Experience Barnsley was the winner of the Kids in Museums Best Accessible Museum Award in 2022, and both Cannon Hall Museum and the Cooper Gallery have also been shortlisted for this national award. We have quiet spaces and experiences, sensory backpacks, BSL interpreted events and have a range of options to make your visit more enjoyable and comfortable. All our venues are accessible, some with ramps and lifts, Experience Barnsley Museum and Elsecar Heritage Centre also have changing places toilets.

child looks through magnifying glass in woods

You can also download our access guides from our website to plan your visit in advance. Come and discover the amazing stories, collections, and landscapes that Barnsley Museums have to offer, and enjoy a fun and inclusive day out with your family.

What's On - Latest Events

Find out about all the brilliant exhibitions, events & activities happening across our five museums.

Featuring bushcrafts, storytelling, crafts and and more – discover new skills and creative ideas across our range of family friendly activities for kids of all ages, perfect for some free Summer holidays fun!

From classic costumes and world renowned author exhibitions, to celebrations of history and demonstrations - enjoy a range of free exhibitions across the Barnsley Museums sites.

View what's on or click below to download our latest guide.