Welcome

Who We Are at Barnsley & District u3a

At Barnsley & District u3a, we are a friendly and vibrant community of over 1,300 members from Barnsley and the surrounding areas. We bring people together who are looking forward to retirement, or who are no longer in full-time work, and who want to make the most of their time.

We offer the chance to explore new interests, meet new people, and enjoy life to the full. With more than 100 activity and interest groups, including languages, arts, music, science, technology, and food and drink, there is something for everyone. Members can take part in monthly meetings, presentations, travel, dining out, sports, quizzes, and much more.

We believe in making the most of life, and our members continue to develop their creative, educational, and social interests in a warm and supportive environment. Many share a wealth of experience, skills, and knowledge gained through their careers and hobbies, and are encouraged to form activity groups and pass on their expertise to others.

We are a community where friendships grow, interests flourish, and new experiences begin. Why not join us and become part of Barnsley & District u3a?

Silver Shimmy at u3a Festival York

Silver Shimmy Dancercise at the u3a Festival, York

Five members of Silver Shimmy travelled from Barnsley to York to join KaeCee in delivering a lively and enjoyable workshop at the u3a Festival, attended by more than 30 delegates.

Our Silver Shimmy Dancercise session introduced participants to the foundations of belly dance in a fun and accessible way. We began with a gentle warm-up, followed by a more energetic heart-raising warm-up before teaching some of the basic belly dance movements. Everyone joined in enthusiastically, learning the foundation moves and taking part in our easy-to-follow group dances.

To round off the session, our Silver Shimmy members performed four of our belly dance routines, which were warmly received with enthusiastic applause from the audience.

It was wonderful to share our love of dance, movement and friendship with so many people, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the workshop. We hope to inspire more people to discover the fun and health benefits of belly dance.

Non-Members Attending Groups

If you’d like to come along and try one of our groups or our Monthly Meeting, you’re very welcome. simply contact our Membership Secretary through the Contact Us page for more information.

Non-members are welcome to attend up to two group sessions and one Monthly Meeting on a trial basis.

Please note that our social and travel events are for members only.

Not a Member?

You can find our membership application form on the Join Us page.

Monthly Meeting

The June monthly meeting was our AGM. Once the business part was over, we were treated to a fascinating talk by Fiona Clarke.

After the AGM, Fiona’s presentation, Looking at Art, took us into the world of art. She showed us how to truly look at a painting and appreciate it without judging it at first glance. The discussion included Jan van Eyck’s Arnolfini Portrait, which was very informative.

We also saw Lynn step down and welcomed Mandy Martin, who has joined us as our new Development Officer.

bu3a Doing What They Do Best – Socialising!

Chinese Night at the u3a

Forty-seven of our members gathered for a delightful evening at China Court, Mapplewell, where we enjoyed an array of delicious Chinese dishes and the pleasure of great company. The atmosphere was warm, lively, and filled with laughter as friends old and new shared stories over a wonderful meal.

A heartfelt thank you to Sue for organising such a lovely event — just one of the many dining-out evenings that we enjoy together at the u3a.

Barnsley & District u3a Charity number 1077654