About Doncaster
Enjoy the best of Doncaster with a little help from a Best Western Hotel.
The market town is the perfect destination for a much needed change of scenery. Our hotels are moments away from impressive country homes, walk-through wildlife parks and some of the best markets in the country. You’re never too far from a traditional pub or international cuisine too, the choice is yours.
This South Yorkshire gem offers plenty of opportunities to get active at impressive sports and leisure facilities including the Doncaster Dome and Bawtry Paintball Fields. If swimming in a seven-pool water world or taking on a tree-top trek sounds like too much work, you can always cheer from the sidelines at Doncaster Racecourse, or the Keepmoat Stadium, home of the Rovers.
Culture and history in Doncaster
Culture and history in Doncaster
Add a bit of culture to your staycation by ticking our recommendations below off your must-see list.
- Brodsworth Hall & Gardens - A stunning country home that has been lovingly restored to its Victorian best. There’s a chance to join a guided tour to learn more about the history of the building and its well-heeled former residents and when you’re finished exploring, the Tea Terrace is the perfect spot to take in the gardens and the weight off your feet.
- Cast - Doncaster’s state of the art theatre opened in 2013 and has hosted a packed programme of exciting events ever since. Enjoy jazz, ballet, comedy and more on the big stage built for local and international talent. You can find the distinctive building on Sir Nigel Gresley Square in the centre of town.
- Conisborough Castle - Step back in time to medieval Yorkshire in a castle that inspired Sir Walter Scott’s historical romance novel, Ivanhoe. Learn about the sieges, periods of neglect and the building process behind the 11th century fort thanks to guided tours and audio-visual installations.
Shopping in Doncaster
Shopping in Doncaster
Doncaster is packed with unique shopping venues perfect for picking up quirky gifts, foodie treats and artisan goods. In addition to our shortlist below, check out Goose Hill, Mexborough and the Corn Exchange.
- Doncaster Market - Four large halls and a bustling outdoor marketplace make up the vast market precinct. There’s the usual fruit and veg vendors throughout the week and on Wednesday stalls selling antique and bric-a-brac items come to town. The perfect spot to pick up a mini break memento.
- Frenchgate Shopping Centre - Conveniently located next to the main train station, Frenchgate is home to over 120 stores under one roof. All the big brands are here and more specialist retailers too. The Artisan Craft, Gift & Food Emporium is a real standout store, selling furniture made from recycled whisky barrels and other wares from local manufacturers.
- Wool Market - After a major overhaul in 2019, the Wool Market has become the place to go to sample international foods and splash out on handmade artisan goods. The trendy venue opens late into the evening to showcase live music performances and a host of exciting events.
Eating and drinking in Doncaster
Eating and drinking in Doncaster
Fuel your staycation with some of the best eateries Doncaster has to offer. Make sure you’re never lost on where to go thanks to our top tips.
- Sunnybank Gardens & The Yorkshire Ice Cream Farm - Sunnybank Gardens is a must for families visiting Doncaster. There’s a crazy golf course, play barn and even a doggy diner for furry visitors. The headline act though is the ice cream, the home-made recipes and extensive range of flavours draw the crowds back to Sunnybank year after year.
- The Boat Inn - For a pub lunch with a difference, you can’t go wrong with The Boat Inn. The 17th-century inn serves hearty, seasonal dishes from the grassy banks of the River Don. Head to Sprotbrough Lock and book in advance for a real taste of old-world Doncaster.
- The Glass Strawberry - Breakfast, brunch, lunch and more, The Glass Strawberry has got you covered. The coffee house in the centre of town prides itself on serving Yorkshire’s premium coffee and providing a sociable hub for Doncasterians and visitors alike. A family-friendly eatery amongst the town’s best streets for shopping.
Things to do in Doncaster
Things to do in Doncaster
It’s time to fill your itinerary with the best of Doncaster. Whether you want to feel the buzz of live sports or set your heart racing by taking part yourself, there are plenty of ways to build a mini-break to remember.
- Enjoy a day at the races - If you fancy the odd flutter, a day at Doncaster Racecourse comes highly recommended. Their calendar is filled with derby race days and concerts from big name pop stars so you’ve got even more reasons to jump and cheer from the stands.
- Visit Yorkshire Wildlife Park - The Yorkshire Wildlife Park invites visitors to a walk through safari of over 70 different species. There’s a full programme of ranger talks, feeding time shows and plenty of on-site cafes and shops to cater for all of the family. Best of all, your entrance fee helps charities working to support endangered and threatened species across the world.
- Get active in the Doncaster Dome - Have you ever skated on a split-level ice rink before? Well, now’s your chance. The double decker Ice Pads are a one of a kind in the UK and help to draw in over one million guests to Doncaster Dome every year. If ice-skating isn’t ‘your thing’ you can always take a dip in the seven-pool water world instead.