Places to see: Elsecar

Elsecar Heritage Centre

What a surprise I found when I decided to visit Elsecar near Barnsley. I was expecting a heritage centre and perhaps a cafe - but there is so much more to it. The Heritage Centre is the remains of Earl Fitzwilliam's industrial empire from the early 19th century, with well preserved reminders of its historical involvement in the coal and steam industries. All the buildings are now very different -quaint, traditional shops, studios, play areas and cafes. It is free to get in and you don't even have to pay for the car park - what a bonus!

This delightful cafe also has an inside room where you can take your dog.

The Ironworks is a huge warehouse-type building that often holds special events such as craft markets - so look out what is going to be on when you visit.

Fascinating and traditional woodworking shops to explore and pick up a bargain.

Playmania was originally the Carpenters Workshop, that served the nearby colliery and ironworks.

The Visitors Centre, originally the Stewards Office, is full of things to do, build, discover and of course to buy. It also has free maps and information leaflets - see copies further along.

There is even the Maison Du Biere - with many different types of Ales.

There are several shops selling antiques and bric a brac - especially for those who like to rummage for a bargain.

Plants could be picked up - if you are looking for something for your garden.

After wandering around the enclosed village, back past the car park, you will find Elsecar Park with its Reservoir and Nature Reserve - definitely worth an hour or more exploring.

Go up the hill, past the Bandstand surrounded by colourful plants and trees.

At the top of the hill, you will find Elsecar Park Cafe, Toilets, crazy golf and a children's play area. There is also a larger Pitch and Putt Golf course closeby, a sand pit and picnic area; and the start of the Woodland Walk around the Reservoir.

It isn't too far to walk around the reservoir - less than a mile and reasonably flat; it is well worth it for the views and the birdlife.

There is even a bird hide to sit in and watch for the many different birds that frequent the reservoir.

Back down the road you will find the village; look out for the Market Inn which has been there selling ale to the locals since 1850, as well as the Milton Arms which is close-by.

There is a canal running from the Reservoir, but you don't see it until you reach the far side of the Heritage Centre - it was originally used to transport coal and iron but is now used by local fishermen. Look out for swans, herons and kingfishers too.

Back towards the Heritage centre you will see remnants of the coal mining industry and a museum (inside a railway carriage) dedicated to the history of local coal mines.

Then you come to my favourite part - Elsecar Heritage Railway and its beautifully restored station. The railway dates back to 1850 when it was constructed to transport iron and coal to Mexborough for Earl Fitzwilliam.

On Sunday afternoons there are regular passenger trains running, and throughout the year there are allsorts of events happening; CAMRA Beer Festival, Winter Warmers, Teddy Bear Specials and Young Un Specials. Go and see the Engine shed, Coal museum or have a browse inside the Ticket Office which is also a cafe and small souvenir shop.