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The Works

Discover a treasure trove of books, art supplies, and creative essentials at The Works in Barnsley, known for great value and friendly service.

The Works in Barnsley's Alhambra Centre is a popular destination for fantastic value on books, art, craft supplies, toys, and stationery. With a strong Google rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 78 reviews, it's clearly a favourite for locals and visitors alike seeking creative inspiration or entertainment for the whole family.

Visitors consistently praise the wide selection of affordable products, making it an ideal spot for children's activities, school projects, or personal hobbies. The team at The Works is frequently highlighted for their exceptionally friendly and helpful approach, creating a pleasant and welcoming shopping experience that often exceeds expectations.

Visiting Information

The Works operates Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The store is designed for convenience, offering wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance. A variety of payment options are accepted, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC payments.

4.0

from 78 reviews

Google Reviews

Reviews from Google Maps.

Showing 5 of 78 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 5 February 2026.

Anonymous

1/5

6 months ago

I went there to buy some books and a worker came over screaming at me saying she wasn't going to serve me and screamed at my dad saying are you really going to let her read them completely embarrassed me in-front of all the other customers and made me uncomfortable. I get if the books wasn’t appropriate for my age but she could of politely told me theres not appropriate as i had clearly no knowledge of the books i just picked them up as i recognised them. I don’t appreciate getting shouted at when i had no knowledge these books where 18+ and staff should be trained to be respectful like the customers are.

Anonymous

5/5

8 months ago

The book selection in this branch is by far the best that I have visited in South Yorkshire, but it is the staff at this particular shop in Barnsley that make this branch the best in my opinion, and are such a credit to the company. They are each amazing at their jobs and always offer a friendly smile and conversation when I go to visit either by myself or with my family. They give really good advice and recommendations for books, and they make the atmosphere such a welcoming, heart-warming, friendly place to visit, that I do so every week. Guy and Hayley, I should give personal mention to, are 2 of the nicest, kindest people I have personally met, and are both fantastic at their jobs. It's quite rare to find a place in retail with such comradery and a team that works so well together, but the Barnsley branch are just that. It's debatable to say who enjoys visiting this place more, myself or my children, but it is fair to say that it is my "go-to" place in Barnsley and I never pass on a little weekly visit to say hi, check out new releases, discuss books we've read/are reading, and get new book recommendations. If I could give this branch more stars I definitely would!

Anonymous

5/5

a year ago

My kids love this place more than the toy shop. The staff are fantastic with them, very friendly and pleasant. Great prices and ideal for just about all my (and my kids) crafting needs.

Anonymous

4/5

8 months ago

So many good book options and basically a art supply heaven! Staff were a bit ignorant at the till

Anonymous

5/5

3 years ago

Love the works. Personally my favourite place, amazing art supplies and books. Cheep prices and lovely staff, keep it up guys 👍