Barnsley is a district in South Yorkshire, part of the Yorkshire and The Humber region. It covers an area of around 329 square kilometres, with a mix of urban and rural landscapes. The town of Barnsley serves as the administrative centre, while the district includes smaller towns and villages like Penistone, Hoyland, and Wombwell. The area is known for its industrial heritage, particularly coal mining, which shaped its development in the 19th and 20th centuries.
The landscape features the Pennine foothills to the west, offering scenic countryside and outdoor recreation opportunities. The River Dearne flows through the district, contributing to its natural environment. Barnsley has undergone regeneration in recent years, with efforts to diversify its economy beyond traditional industries. Transport links include the M1 motorway and rail connections to nearby cities like Sheffield and Leeds. The district also has several parks and green spaces, such as Locke Park and Cannon Hall, a historic country house with gardens.
On average Barnsley has high deprivation and high crime levels, with around 123 crimes per 1,000 residents per year. Approximately 18.3% of homes in this area are social housing provided by a local council or housing association. The average income of residents in Barnsley is £35,946 per year. There are 95 schools in Barnsley: 78 primary (8 Outstanding and 57 Good) and 11 secondary (0 Outstanding and 8 Good).