Barnsley Metrodome

The Metrodome dominates Barnsley's skyline like a giant geodesic dome landed in the middle of South Yorkshire. Built in the 1990s, it's an indoor sports and leisure complex that actually works - rare for a building of this era and size. You'll find swimming pools, ice skating, climbing walls, badminton courts and a proper gym inside. The architecture itself is the real draw if you're not here for a swim or skate. That white latticed dome catches the light beautifully, and it's worth walking around the perimeter just to see how it sits in the landscape.

Families with restless kids will find plenty to burn off energy on. The pools are decent, the ice rink keeps things interesting year-round, and there's enough variety that you won't feel trapped. Older kids and teenagers gravitate toward the climbing wall. It's not a destination in itself - you're not making a day trip from Manchester for this - but if you're based at Mapplewell Meadows Farm or Greensprings Caravan Park nearby, it's a solid rainy-day option.

The town centre sits a short walk away, so you can combine a Metrodome session with a proper nose around Barnsley's shops and cafes. Entry costs vary by activity, but swimming is usually reasonable. Allow two to three hours if you're doing multiple activities. Best avoided on school holidays unless you fancy queuing.