Living in Barnsley

With a population of just under a quarter of a million people, Barnsley is a popular former mining town and home to the famous Barnsley FC. Its location boasts vast, magnificent countryside with steep rolling hills, making it perfect for ramblers and nature lovers. It is also, more recently, undergoing regeneration with a boost in local investment to improve infrastructure and increase business and employment opportunities.

History of the area

The town of Barnsley was created as a result of many abbeys and priories being built in the area after the Norman invasion of 1066. It may of course have been inhabited prior to that, however the first documented mention of Barnsley is in the Domesday Book in 1086 with the original name of Berneslai. It is most famous for its coal mines, however it also has a long-held tradition of glassmaking.

The property market

New build homes

Barnsley Council have a range of schemes in place to increase the number of new build homes within the next 20 years, with plans to build over 21,000 homes. New homes make up around 15% of all homes sold in the area, making them a popular choice (especially with first time buyers).

First time buyers

The average price paid by first time buyers in the area is around 10% less than the overall average in Barnsley and almost half that of the national average. It’s an affordable option for those who want to be near larger cities without the hefty price tag. As well as a range of new build homes, there are also plenty of existing homes for sale in the area.

Renting in the area

Rents are reasonably low in the area, despite increasing annually. The average rental price is almost 30% lower than the average for Yorkshire and Humberside, and less than half of the national average. The affordability means that renting in the area is incredibly popular, especially among working professionals.

Schools and education

Barnsley is home to over 100 schools, with a third of them receiving an “Outstanding” Ofsted rating. There are also a number of colleges within the area, such as Barnsley College, Barnsley Sixth Form College and Northern College for adults. For universities you have access to Barnsley College University Centre or, a short distance away Sheffield University or Sheffield Hallam University.

Transport links

One of the many benefits of living in Barnsley is that it is situated between three major cities: Sheffield, Leeds and Manchester. This means there are plenty of trains to local hotspots as well as great connections to motorways like the M1 and the A365 for Eastbound and Westbound travel. For flying, although closer to Doncaster Sheffield Airport, most travellers choose to fly from Manchester airport as it covers a wider range of destinations.

Lifestyle and leisure

Places to see

There are plenty of green spaces available in the area, with many historical sites to explore too. You have the likes of RSPB Dearne Valley and Wentworth Castle Gardens for a scenic stroll in the countryside. However, if you want to add in a bit of history to your journey you also have the iconic Pot House Hamlet and Elsecar Heritage Centre.

Things to do

Being in the countryside, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of places to say hello to wildlife, like at Cannon Hall Farm and Wigfield Farm. Though you can always walk the goats at Lower Coates for a more active adventure. Speaking of active, Barnsley is also the home of Barnsley Metrodome – which offers bowling as well as a fantastic range of fun flumes, perfect for little ones.

Where to eat

If you fancy a little Italian food then you can sample the delights of The Secret Italian,  Med at Olana or MezzAluna. If steak is more your thing then you’ve got beautiful beef at Bistro at the Pocket or Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill. For traditional pub grub you should head on over to Elephant & Castle, The Mill of the Black Monks or Boatmans Rest.

The surrounding area

Barnsley benefits from sitting between a number of large towns and cities. To the east you have Doncaster, to the south you have Rotherham and Sheffield and to the north-west you have Huddersfield. With great transport links, and being so close to popular locations, Barnsley is the perfect place to call home.

Thinking of living in Barnsley?

Whether you’re thinking of buying your first home or scaling up, Haybrook can help you find the right property for you and your needs. Browse our properties for sale and properties to rent in Barnsley online, or contact our local agents today. You can fill in our online form, give us a call or visit us in-person.