A Guide to Living in Goldthorpe

Posted Aug 1, 2023

Welcome to this comprehensive guide to living in Goldthorpe if you are looking to buy a property in this area.

Goldthorpe is a small village within the Metropolitan Borough of Barnsley, South Yorkshire, close to rolling countryside and great connections across South Yorkshire.

We’ll delve into the ins and outs of life in Goldthorpe, examining the factors like the  local amenities and transport links to the housing market and lifestyle, providing you with a comprehensive insight into what it’s like to live in Goldthorpe.

 

Transport and commuting

Goldthorpe has its own railway station, making it an integral part of the local commute. The station is a hub of activity, with trains running frequently to Doncaster and Sheffield.

The local bus service in Goldthorpe connects Goldthorpe with nearby towns and cities such as Doncaster and Barnsley.

Goldthorpe offers several cycling routes and footpaths. The town has made significant efforts to promote cycling and walking to commute.

Goldthorpe is well-connected to major cities, providing multiple options for travel.

By car:

• To Sheffield, it’s approximately a 35-minute drive, covering around 20 miles.
• Leeds is about 28 miles away, which typically takes around 50 minutes by car.
• Manchester is roughly 50 miles away, with a usual drive time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• London is approximately 170 miles from Goldthorpe, and the journey usually takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes by car.
  
  

By train:

• Trains to Sheffield typically take around 30 minutes.
• The train journey to Leeds is ‌around 1 hour and 10 minutes.
• Train can reach Manchester in approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• You can reach London in about 2 hours and 30 minutes by train from Goldthorpe.

Please note that the travel times are subject to change based on traffic and train schedules. It’s always a good idea to check the current schedules and road conditions before you start your journey.

 

Education

Goldthorpe is near a variety of academic institutions, from primary schools to higher education facilities.

Schools:

• Goldthorpe Primary Academy is located right in the town centre, educating children aged 3-11.
• Highgate Primary Academy is located close to Goldthorpe railway station.
• Astrea Academy Dearne is a secondary school in Goldthorpe.

Colleges:

• Barnsley College is around 8 miles away and offers a wide range of further education courses.
• Doncaster College, located approximately 12 miles from Goldthorpe. It provides a multitude of vocational courses and apprenticeships.

Universities:

• The University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University are both in Sheffield, around 20 miles from Goldthorpe. Both universities offer a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
• The University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University, located around 28 miles away. They are well-regarded higher education institutions with a variety of courses.

These are just a few examples of the educational opportunities in and around Goldthorpe. It’s always recommended to visit individual institution’s websites for detailed information about courses, admission process, and other facilities.

 

Green Spaces in and around Goldthorpe

Goldthorpe, despite its urban setting, is surrounded by an array of green spaces perfect for outdoor activities and nature appreciation.

• Goldthorpe Green Space is a local park in the heart of the town. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with family and friends.
• Dearne Valley Park, located just a few miles away, is a larger green space known for its beautiful scenery and wildlife. It’s a perfect place for birdwatching, walking or cycling.
• Old Moor Wetland Centre RSPB in the Dearne Valley, is a haven for nature lovers. It offers a variety of walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and a visitor centre.
• Elsecar Park and Local Nature Reserve, located around 5 miles from Goldthorpe, is a Green Flag awarded park. It boasts beautiful gardens, a large lake, and several walking trails.
• Just a short drive away, you’ll find the stunning Peak District National Park. It offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and climbing.

Remember to check our guide on 25 places places to visit near Goldthorpe in South Yorkshire.

 

Employment opportunities

Goldthorpe and its surrounding areas host a variety of businesses and industries, providing employment opportunities for locals and those in nearby towns. Some of the large employers in and around Goldthorpe include:

• ASOS: The online fashion and cosmetics retailer has a large distribution centre in nearby Barnsley, providing several jobs in warehousing, logistics, and administration.
• Webhelp: This global business process outsourcer has a contact centre in nearby Dearne Valley, employing many people in customer service roles.
• Next Distribution: Located in Armthorpe, the Next Distribution centre is one of the largest employers in the area, with a wide range of roles in retail distribution.
• Premier Foods: A UK food manufacturer with a manufacturing site in Worksop, offering roles in manufacturing, engineering, and logistics.
• Capita: This British professional services company runs several call centres in the surrounding area, providing jobs in customer service and administration.
• Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust: A significant local employer offering a variety of roles in healthcare and administration.

It’s always recommended to check directly with the companies or on job sites for the latest job opportunities.

 

Shopping

Goldthorpe offers an array of shopping options for its residents, ranging from local shops to large retail chains and supermarkets. Here are some examples:

• Co-op Food: Located in the heart of Goldthorpe, this supermarket provides a wide range of grocery items, fresh produce, and household goods.
• Aldi: Known for its affordable prices, Aldi offers a broad selection of items including fresh food, groceries, and household essentials.
• Home Bargains: This discount store chain offers a variety of products from groceries and household items to toys and health & beauty products.
• Goldthorpe Market (currently closed): A traditional open market where you can find a variety of stalls selling fresh produce, clothing, household goods, and more.

Several local shops and independent retailers are also present in Goldthorpe, selling everything from fresh produce to bespoke items. These include local butchers, bakers, and convenience stores.

In nearby towns, you’ll find larger shopping centres like the Alhambra Shopping Centre in Barnsley and the Frenchgate Shopping Centre in Doncaster, hosting a variety of high street brands and larger retailers.

 

Socialising and Entertainment

Goldthorpe offers a variety of venues where you can socialise, enjoy a meal, or have a drink. Here are a few places to consider:

• The Snap Tin Cafe: A Community cafe known for its friendly service and delicious food, this cafe is a great place for a relaxed meal or a cup of coffee.
• Indian Spice: If you’re in the mood for some spicy cuisine, this Indian restaurant offers a wide range of traditional dishes.
• Pizza Milano: A popular choice for pizza lovers, Pizza Milano also offers a variety of other Italian dishes.
• Goldthorpe Reform Working Mens Club: For a more laid-back social experience, the Club offers a welcoming environment with a range of beverages.

Remember, there are also many options in nearby towns such as Barnsley and Doncaster, if you’re looking for a wider variety of restaurants, pubs, and social venues.

 

History of Goldthorpe

Goldthorpe, situated in South Yorkshire, England, has a history that is deeply intertwined with the coal mining industry.

The village of Goldthorpe was initially a small and quiet rural community. However, the discovery of coal in the late 19th century dramatically transformed the area. The opening of Goldthorpe Colliery in 1909 led to a population boom as workers flocked to the area for employment opportunities. Goldthorpe became a bustling mining town, with rows of terraced houses built to accommodate the influx of miners and their families.

The Goldthorpe Colliery was owned by the Hickleton Main Colliery Company and remained in operation for roughly 80 years. It played a significant role in the economy and community life of Goldthorpe, providing employment and contributing to the town’s growth and development.

However, the decline of the coal industry in the latter part of the 20th century had a profound impact on Goldthorpe. The Goldthorpe Colliery was closed in 1994, leading to job losses and economic challenges for the community.

Today, Goldthorpe is a town that has adapted to change and persevered through difficult times. While the mining industry is a thing of the past, the town’s history is still evident in its landscape and the firm sense of community among its residents. Evidence of its coal mining history can still be seen in the architecture of the older buildings and in the spirit of the local community.

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