Visit Doncaster Visitor Guide

> V I SITO R GU ID E 2 0 1 7

V I S IT AND L ET T H E J O Y BEG IN....

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THINK YOU KNOW DONCASTER? TAK E A FR ESH LOOK !

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Doncaster is a beautiful historic town and we enjoyed looking at the fabulous architecture.

The people are so friendly and we certainly would love to come back again soon.

Jill & Mike – Cape Breton, Canada Front cover – Brodsworth Hall

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> WELCO ME

visitdoncaster.com

FROM GIANT BEARS TO ZOMBIE ARCHERY Doncaster. A joy to visit.

This is a town that thinks like a city and is transforming itself into a vibrant place to live, stay and play.

This guide will lift the lid on the new Doncaster. Whether you’re a day visitor, a shopper or you’re here for a sporting event or to see one of our many great historical attractions. Whether you’re a family with children or a thrill seeker looking for adventure then Doncaster is the place for you!

We have an exciting urban centre, alive with plenty to do and we’re also close to many major historic sites, beautiful green spaces and countryside so your break can be filled with a variety of experiences that are unique to Doncaster.

Next time you’re looking for a great place for a short break then think Doncaster, we have so much to see and do and you’ll find we have many surprises in store for visitors of all ages. From polar bears to steam trains; we have something for everyone.

Visit Doncaster soon and you’ll discover what a joy it is.

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> ABOU T DO N CA STER

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FROM A GLORIOUS PAST TO AN EXCITING FUTURE D o nc as ter, a town pr ou d o f i t s h e ri t a g e w ith a new a nd vibr a nt fe e l !

> KE Y F A CTS

> During the industrial revolution the railways

> Doncaster was the venue of an air show in 1909,

came to Doncaster with the Plant Works being famous for building the iconic locomotives Mallard and Flying Scotsman, as well as many thousands more.

a base for the Royal Air Force during both World Wars and is now home to the UK’s fastest growing international airport outside London, handling 1.26 million passengers in 2016.

National College for High Speed Rail

Doncaster Mansion House

Danum shield

> Doncaster was founded by the Romans,

a town older than York with a market established around 2,000 years ago that remains on the same site today. > Doncaster is home to the St Leger, the world’s oldest classic race dating back to 1776 and run every year in September.

However, the St Leger isn’t just about racing, it’s an exciting two week festival which takes place across the whole town bringing the best entertainment, art and culture to surround the racing with a huge Doncaster celebration.

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With coal and the railways, Doncaster became a hub for transport and communication, something that remains strong today. Doncaster is positioned at the heart of the major rail and motorway network and once again is thriving. Twenty first century developments in the rail industry include Doncaster being home to the new National College for High Speed Rail opening September 2017.

> Home to one of only three original Georgian Mansion Houses in the country, where today events are held that capture the splendour of past times and visitors can appreciate the beautiful interior décor of this unique building. Weddings are held at the Mansion House and this year sees the first ever Mansion House Spectacular Steampunk event.

> Doncaster is also home to Britain’s favourite corner shop. First run by that legend of comedy, Ronnie Barker as Arkwright, and more recently by his nephew Granville, a tiny hairdresser’s shop is transformed into “Arkwrights” from Open All Hours when filming starts. The shop has been used since the very first series in the 1970s and continues today.

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> FAMILY F U N DA YS

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READY FOR A WILD TIME? Looking for somewhere new for a weekend away with children? Then you’ll find so much to do in Doncaster.

There are so many family attractions in and around the town centre, that you’ll need to schedule your return trips immediately to fit it all in!

Places of historic interest and beauty There are sites of historic interest including Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery, Ashworth Barracks and the South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum. The fabulous displays at Cusworth Hall and Brodsworth Hall also combine history with nature as both have beautiful, walk through gardens to enjoy all year round.

Nature lovers will enjoy Potteric Carr Nature Reserve or the spectacular sights of Sprotborough Flash and salmon ladder. Or how about Hatfield Outdoor Activity Centre with an extensive range of land and water based activities for all ages and abilities - you can even camp there too! Alternatively Boston Park Farm is a great day out for younger children, especially from mid-July until the end of October when a new Maize Maze is laid out each year.

Adventure outdoors

Action packed entertainment

For those seeking a more wild adventure, a trip to the UK’s largest walkthrough wildlife park is a must.

Just a few miles out of the town centre you’ll find the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, home to nearly 400 animals of 70 different species. It’s a fantastic place to experience a truly breath-taking walkthrough wildlife adventure with everything from bugs to wallabies and polar bears to meerkats.

For those who like to go nowhere as fast as possible why not try Nixim Motorsim where the children often outdrive their parents on this state of the art driving simulator experience. Or for a real driving experience we have the UK’s largest Motoparc - Fat Cat. Three tracks, one especially for children where they can develop their skills with other children in a safe and fun environment.

Active family fun If it’s activities you’re looking for then check out Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust. Operating from 14 venues across the town, there’s sure to be something happening at one of their centres for you. From bowling to ice skating, fun pools and flumes to mini golf and loads of live family entertainment and events at the famous Doncaster Dome.

Why not try a bounce around at Air Kings or Go Bounce or for the super sleuth families with older children why not try your hand at an escape from Doncaster’s own escape rooms Enigma. Then there’s Pirate Cove, a fun filled 12 hole golf course where you can putt your way around crocodile infested waters and rock pools to retrieve the treasure.

Doncaster is also home to Bawtry Paintball Fields, Europe’s biggest and best paintball venue. Here you can experience not only the thrills of the traditional paintball attraction but also children from 6 upwards can try their hand at archery, tomahawk throwing and even laser combat. You may even see The Predator or the odd zombie or two as you make your way around the UK’s safest multi-activity centre where thrills are guaranteed.

At your leisure For something more sedate how about Doncaster’s own Lego emporium ‘Brickin-It’ where you can not only buy new and used sets but even individual bricks! Oh and they’re more than happy for you to go and play with the Lego too!

No family trip to Doncaster is complete without an evening at either Doncaster’s Vue cinema or the theatre. Cast and Doncaster Little Theatre both regularly feature family shows that would round off your hectic family day out.

Potteric Carr

The Predator at Bawtry Paintball Fields Cusworth Hall

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> H I STORY A N D HER ITA GE

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Roman Doncaster A fragment of Roman Doncaster can still be seen in the grounds of Doncaster Minster. Doncaster Museum houses many Roman artefacts, including the rare Danum Shield, one of only a handful ever found anywhere in the world. A Roman altar and a well-preserved dagger are also on display.

Castles During the Norman period castles appeared across the country and we are fortunate to have two well preserved examples in Doncaster. The privately owned Tickhill Castle and Conisbrough Castle. The latter ironically escaped destruction during the Civil War as it was deemed to be indefensible and therefore of no value.

The Keep Tower remains virtually intact and one of the best preserved in Europe.

Rich ornamentation and gilding adorn this building which was designed as a Royal Palace and is right here in the heart of Doncaster.

Doncaster Minster Doncaster Minster is another Grade I listed building, built on the site of the medieval church which burnt down in 1853. Architect Sir George Gilbert Scott designed this masterpiece as its replacement.

The clock, high up in the tower, was built by Dent – makers of the clock in Big Ben – and installed in Doncaster just weeks before that in London. As with Big Ben, the time is regulated with carefully positioned pennies and occasionally guided tours are taken through the labyrinth of stone stairways and passageways towards the bell tower to see the clock ticking precisely, keeping time for Doncaster.

Brodsworth Hall

Mansion House

Ashworth Barracks Museum

Doncaster Minster of St George

Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry Museum

Cusworth Hall

Conisbrough Castle

HISTORIC ADVENTURE With nearly 2,000 years of Doncaster history it’s not surprising that we have a lot to be proud of and many fine buildings! So delve into Doncaster’s past to soak up some culture during your visit!

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Flying Scotsman

Country Houses and Mansions

Military History

During the Georgian period many fine country houses and stately homes were built in Doncaster. Cusworth Hall is one dating from the 1740s and occupying a commanding view over the town below. The Grade I listed Hall and grounds are open to the public and balloon flights from the grounds allow you to see the estate from above.

For those interested in military history Doncaster have two terrific museums. The Regimental Museum of the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry (KOYLI) traces the origins of this regiment and also explains why Yorkshire Day is celebrated on 1 August.

Brodsworth Hall was built during the Victorian era and was maintained exactly as it was when the last owners left in the 1980’s but is now undergoing a huge conservation project to maintain and preserve its splendour. Brodsworth Hall’s fine gardens are a must for any visitor to Doncaster.

In the heart of the town centre you will find The Mansion House one of only 3 in the country, opened in 1749 and built to impress. This Palladian giant was built as an entertainment venue and the wealth of Georgian Doncaster can easily be imagined.

Meanwhile Ashworth Barracks is home to the Victoria Cross Trust and tells the story of many of the recipients of the VC, with uniforms, weapons and realistic scenes depicting battlefields.

Rail Heritage Doncaster’s rail heritage is a vital part of the story of Doncaster and its people. Many of the finest locomotives were built here, including Flying Scotsman, Mallard and a Stirling Single. There are also many fine railway artefacts at Doncaster Museum and Cusworth Hall.

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> MU S IC A N D N IGHTL IF E

A SUPERB ATMOSPHERE From theatre to dining and from the terrific live music scene to the collection of specialist bars and pubs Doncaster has something to suit all tastes.

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Theatre nights Cast hosts internationally acclaimed touring companies, coproduced work and the very best in local talent. The Main Space 620-seat theatre presents a programme of superb entertainment all year round. Doncaster’s Little Theatre is a hidden gem. With just 99 seats it boasts a full programme of performances for all the family.

Live music The live music scene is very strong in Doncaster: venues such as the Leopard and Diamond Live Lounge draw large audiences with quality bands and smaller venues like the Woolpack, Flying Scotsman, Cask Corner, Social, The Queen and Vintage Rock Bar have live bands or acoustic sets throughout the week.

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the offer. Pre theatre goers can dine at Taste Eatery or Opera Italian Restaurant, both conveniently situated across the road from Cast. For something different, the Rum Rooms and Gin Rooms have a cosy intimate restaurant above the bar or for great international menus try Relish or Zest.

Bawtry offers a fine choice of restaurants for a great evening out.

The four star Crown Hotel and many stylish restaurants make a night out or stay over in Bawtry very special.

Fine ales

Just outside the town centre, the Dome often attracts big names, and after race concerts at Doncaster Racecourse also bring major acts to the town on a regular basis.

Doncaster boasts an impressive range of establishments including Doncaster Brewery & Tap who have six exclusively brewed own beers plus loads more throughout the year.

Cask Corner is a real ale pub with a bizarre and fabulous interior design including a coffin and an ironing board! The market area boasts the newly refurbished Queen Crafthouse and Market Place Alehouse with more great ales and craft beers.

Dining out

Nightlife

Doncaster has a huge selection of restaurants in the town centre; many located in the Netherhall Road area, with Spanish, Italian, Indian and Turkish cuisines amongst

If you’re looking for something lively then Silver Street, Lazarus Court, Hallgate and Priory Walk are the places for you with a huge variety of pubs, clubs and bars for all.

The Colour of Time

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> SHOPPIN G IN D ON CA STE R

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If retail therapy is what you’re looking for then Doncaster is hard to beat.

BAGS OF REASONS TO SHOP HERE

Whether you’re looking for high street shopping and department stores, independent shops or outlet shopping we have it all.

We’re also home to one of the finest markets in the country and recent winner of the BBC Best Food Market in Britain.

Town centre The Frenchgate Centre is home to around 90 stores, cafes and food outlets. A flagship Debenhams store is flanked by many other wellknown brands and independent retailers.

Outside Frenchgate you’ll find yet more well-known brands such as Marks and Spencer and specialist independent retailers to rival any high street shopping experience.

Baxtergate connects the Frenchgate Centre to the Market area where the outside fruit and vegetable stalls sit next to the Fish Market. Fish and seafood lovers will find an amazing selection of both the traditional and unusual as well as fresh game, rabbit, venison and boar. There’s the Market Hall, the oldest building in the Market complex dating from 1847 where you will find award-winning butchers, local pie makers, cheese specialists, delicatessen stalls and International foods from the four corners of the world.

Out of town Lakeside Village is open 7 days a week and offers “outlet” stores and brand names with great discounts. It’s a perfect place for families with young children as there are both indoor and outdoor play areas. There’s free parking and a variety of places to eat and drink.

Specialist shopping The villages and towns around Doncaster also have much to offer.

Bawtry is crammed with independently-owned shops, tea rooms, wine bars and galleries. Tickhill is a great place for a spot of rural charm and great shopping whilst the market towns of Thorne and Mexborough offer additional shopping experiences for visitors.

Doncaster Fish Market

Lakeside Village

Tripadvisor January 2017

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Frenchgate Centre

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> SP A A N D WEL L B EIN G

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Great green spaces

A GREAT PLACE TO CHILL

Doncaster has a busy urban centre but also there are great green spaces for you to enjoy. Elmfield Park is 24 acres of green space with bowling greens, tennis courts and a pavilion providing plenty of activities or beautifully planted flower gardens to stroll around. Town Fields sits in the centre of the town and is home to a number of large scale events.

Doncaster’s Lakeside has a perimeter of around 3.5km and gives visitors beautiful surroundings and views within a mile of the town centre. There are a number of guided walks or for smartphone users why not try the QR reader posts around the lake that will guide you to a series of themed walks.

Potteric Carr Nature Reserve and Sprotborough Flash are great for fresh air, relaxing walks and both have birdwatching areas and are home to native species and rarer visitors alike.

Relax - you’re in great hands Best western Mount Pleasant Hotel

Doncaster has its share of luxury and if it’s a relaxing weekend away from it all you’re in search of then we have great spa hotels and day spa locations. Or you may simply want the outdoors, green spaces, fresh air and time to chill, either way Doncaster has it all.

If it’s indulgence you’re looking for, then why not try the Best Western Mount Pleasant Hotel and Spa. With spa suites and signature spa suites you can relax and chill out in the privacy of your own room.

Or there’s ‘The Spa’ at Truffle Lodge which boasts a heated indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. Outdoors there is a hot tub and wall mounted outdoor television. For those who appreciate the finer things in life make Truffle Lodge your location of choice.

Lakeside

Potteric Carr

For spa breaks and days there’s Owston Hall Hotel with its leisure suite complete with pool, sauna, steam and jacuzzi as well as spa treatment rooms and a relaxation room.

Aphrodite Day Spa and Beauty offers spa day packages, beauty treatment and massage treatments and is located north of the town centre in Carcroft.

Right in the heart of the town centre is Elements MediSpa which offers a wide range of different spa packages and thermal suites.

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> SP O RT A N D A DV ENTU R E

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Enjoy a great round of golf

WE’LL HAVE YOUR HEART RACING Fancy a day at the races?

Plenty of action on the pitch too

Doncaster has been associated with horse racing for centuries and is home to the Doncaster Cup, the oldest regulated horse race in the world. Originally called the Doncaster Gold Cup, the race was first run in 1766 and pre-dates the St Leger by 10 years. The Doncaster Cup is run each year on the Friday of the 4 days of racing in September, the St Leger Festival.

If you think that sport in Doncaster is just about horse racing, then think again. From humble origins in the “Plant” locomotive works, and using the Salutation Inn as their changing rooms, Doncaster Rovers now play in the 15,000 capacity Keepmoat Stadium in their famous red and white hooped shirts, backed by a fiercely loyal following.

Of course the racecourse holds race meetings throughout the year and both opens and closes the flat racing season with the Lincoln Meeting and the November Handicap respectively. Families are welcome and private hospitality suites, plus a variety of restaurants mean that you can entertain in grand style. In recent years racing followed by live music has become popular and legendary bands such as Madness have performed here. 2017 sees more top acts, including UB40 and Mark Ronson set to make an appearance.

Also playing at the Keepmoat Stadium is Doncaster Rugby League Football Club, The Dons, while rugby union fans should head to the Castle Park stadium to see the Doncaster Knights.

Think ladies football, think Doncaster Rovers Belles, who also call the Keepmoat Stadium home. The Belles are one of English women’s football’s most famous and successful clubs, being one of only three non-London teams to have won the FA Women’s Premier League National Division.

Hummingbird Helicopters

We also boast an array of excellent golf courses from Town Moor, situated in the heart of Doncaster Racecourse to the undulating parkland course at Hickleton with its tree-lined fairways and fantastic panoramic views over South Yorkshire and the eastern Pennines. Or why not try the fabulous 9-hole pay and play course at Owston, 5 miles north of Doncaster or try your skills at the Crookhill Park’s infamous 11th hole which offers no mercy to wayward drives. Doncaster also has its own FootGolf course which combines the best of football and golf, two of the most popular sports in the world.

Polo for all If you’d prefer to be part of the action instead of just watching, why not try out polo? You can learn the art at the Vale of York Polo Club and non-riders are welcome.

Anglers paradise Hayfield Lakes offers top quality fishing for pleasure as well as match anglers and is best known for its large shoals of brightly coloured carp.

Highly entertaining For the adrenaline junkies amongst you, then we recommend a visit to Hummingbird Helicopters. At their base at Doncaster Sheffield Airport you can book an introductory flight, experience flight or trial lesson – you can even go on to full flight training. Then there’s the Doncaster Airgun Range – a large indoor range that allows shooters of every calibre to shoot with pleasure away from the elements or Park Lodge Shooting School to the east of Doncaster offers a wide range of shooting experiences and tuition for the novice and experienced clay and game shooter.

We have two great simulators in Doncaster too – the Jet Simulator if you always wanted to know what happens on the flight deck of an airliner or for speed junkies the driving experiences offered at Nixim Motorsim provide an exciting and inexpensive way to get a motorsport orientated thrill.

The driving experience continues at FC Karting and Fat Cat Moto Park with its 600m long track with 8 bends including two hairpins.

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> E VENTS

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IT’S ALL HAPPENING HERE There’s always plenty to do in and around Doncaster but if we haven’t already given you lots of reasons to come and find out for yourself here’s just a few more We have an events calendar literally bursting with great things to do and here’s just a flavour of some of them. > April sees the Doncaster Heritage Festival, a series of events, talks, walks and workshops to celebrate the richness and variety of heritage in Doncaster. > May sees the annual Doncaster Food Festival – Delicious Doncaster – where the town comes alive to the sights and smells of food! Running adjacent to the regular food market there will be food and drink retailers and street food sellers with locally grown and produced goods as well as a wide range of international cuisine and speciality beers, wines and spirits. The three day festival also brings entertainment, music and our very own “Slow Down Sunday” event where urban farming, home growing and even foraging adding something uniquely Doncaster to this great event. > July sees the town’s annual music festival – MapFest - each year there are over a dozen venues and over 100 artists involved, with each adopting a different genre from Blues, to Metal, Indie to Reggae. This event always brings people flocking to Doncaster and is a great showcase of all the fantastic musicians of the town.

> August sees the town turn rainbow coloured for the annual Doncaster Pride event. Established in 2007 Doncaster was the first pride event in South Yorkshire and now one of the largest in Yorkshire with over 12 thousand visitors in 2016. A free event, open to all and featuring a 9 hour free live music event and colourful parade it’s one not to miss. > September is all about the St Leger Festival. Racing takes place for 4 days at Town Moor and wrapping around this is the DNweekeND Festival and the St Leger Festival Week. Hundreds of events, large and small celebrate the town’s historic racing heritage and attract over 60,000 people to the town.

But it’s not all about racing – the Festival Week encompasses the best of performance art, street theatre, music, dance and children’s activities. There is post-race Opera in the Park at Regents Park and hobby horse racing for children in the town centre streets. This is Doncaster’s annual ‘carnival’ a huge series of events that is supported by many local venues with their own programme to support the festival.

Brodsworth Hall

New for 2017 is the Mansion House Spectacular – a grand event hosted by White Rose Steampunks and Doncaster Council at the historic Georgian Mansion House in the heart of the town centre. In addition to becoming a Steampunk venue the Mansion House hosts regular events including tea dances and afternoon teas throughout the year and events in the run up to Christmas.

Sport plays a huge part in Doncaster life and the town has numerous cycling and running events throughout the year in the town centre and surrounding areas.

There are regular travelling Continental Markets and the streets come alive throughout the summer with a multitude of events especially aimed at keeping children entertained in the school holidays.

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Slightly outside the town centre we have Lakeside – home to the Dragon Boat Race and Jet Ski racing events including the British Championship.

Sandall Park hosts an annual ‘Fake Festival’ with tribute bands and always a huge crowd and the Dome has a crammed programme of live music and comedy events throughout the year.

From vintage vehicles to brass bands on the lawns and medieval celebrations to travelling exhibits the historic parks and attractions also have a diary packed with things for all the family.

Doncaster really is alive and buzzing with so many things to do.

Check out www.visitdoncaster.co.uk for a full ‘What’s On’ listing.

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> G ETTIN G HER E

visitdoncaster.com

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T R A F FO R D

If trains are your preference, Doncaster is one of the major stations on the East Coast Main Line which links London to Edinburgh.

London to Doncaster by train is just 88 minutes and there are over 60 trains a day.

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Doncaster is at the heart of the UK’s motorway network. Its excellent proximity to the country’s main arterial routes including 5 major motorways (M18, M1, A1 (M), M62, M180) means it’s the perfect location for a visit, whether that’s for a day or the destination for your next weekend away?

Doncaster Sheffield Airport is the UK’s newest international airport and major operators such as FlyBe, Wizz Air and Thomson, it’s never been easier to Visit Doncaster from father afield.

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FOR EASY ACCESS, WE’RE IN A GREAT POSITION

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1 Market 3 Minster

8 Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery and the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry

4 Cast

9 Tourist Information Centre

5 Little Theatre

10 Frenchgate Shopping Centre

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11 College

7 Railway Station

12 Transport Interchange

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> ATTRA CTIO N S

Cusworth Hall

Museum and Park

visitdoncaster.com

YOUR A-Z OF KEY PLACES TO VISIT Ashworth Barracks Museum Cedar Road Doncaster DN4 9EY www.ashworthbarracks.co.uk 01302 850198 Bawtry Paintball Fields Bawtry Forest Great North Road Doncaster DN10 6DG www.bawtrypaintballfields.co.uk 01302 868841 Boston Park Farm Doncaster DN7 6DS www.bostonpark.com 01302 844818 Brickin-It 8 Kingsgate Doncaster DN1 3JZ www.brickin.it 07415 900505

Discover the town’s unique heritage at Doncaster Museum and explore our fascinating collections including an original 1914 Cheswold car, the Roman Danum Shield and dinosaur fossils dating back millions of years.

Brodsworth Hall & Gardens Brodsworth Doncaster DN5 7XJ www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/brodsworthhall-and-gardens 01302 722598 Cast Waterdale Doncaster DN1 3BU www.castindoncaster.com 01302 303 959 Castle Park Armthorpe Road Doncaster DN2 5QB www.castle-park.co.uk 01302 831388 Conisbrough Castle Castle Hill Conisbrough Doncaster DN12 3BU www.english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/places/conisbrough-castle 01709 863329

The building also houses Doncaster Art Gallery and the Enjoy stunning viewsOwn at the beautiful Grade I Regimental Gallery of the King's Yorkshire Light Infantry, listed building set in acres of historic parkland featuring one of the most extensive medal collections in Britain.

Free Admission Open Saturday – Wednesday Hall | Museum | Park | Tea Room Tel: 01302 782342 www.doncaster.gov.uk/museums

Brodsworth Hall

Ashworth Barracks Museum

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visitdoncaster.com

Cusworth Hall

Doncaster Minster

The Dome

Cusworth Hall, Museum & Park Cusworth Lane Doncaster DN5 7TU www.visitdoncaster.com/things-to-do/ cusworth-hall-museum-park 01302 782342

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Doncaster Little Theatre 1 King Street Doncaster DN1 1JD www.doncasterlittletheatre.co.uk 01302 340422

Doncaster Racecourse Leger Way Doncaster DN2 6BB www.doncaster-racecourse.co.uk 01302 304200

Doncaster Mansion House High Street Doncaster DN1 1BN www.visitdoncaster.com/ things-to-do/the-mansion-house 01302 737600

Enigma Rooms 37 Hall Gate Doncaster DN1 3NR www.enigmarooms.co.uk 0845 475 8895

Doncaster Brewery 7 Young Street Doncaster DN1 3EL www.doncasterbrewery.co.uk 01302 376436

Doncaster Market Market Place Doncaster DN1 1NF www.visitdoncaster.com/things-to-do/ doncaster-market 01302 862480

Doncaster Dome Doncaster Lakeside Bawtry Road Doncaster DN4 7PD www.dclt.co.uk 01302 370777

Doncaster Minster Church Street Doncaster DN1 1RD www.doncasterminster.org 01302 323748

Doncaster Greyhound Stadium Station Road Stainforth Doncaster DN7 5HS www.doncastergreyhoundstadium.co.uk 01302 351650

Doncaster Museum & Art Gallery Chequer Road Doncaster DN1 2AE www.doncaster.gov.uk/services/cultureleisure-tourism/doncaster-museum-and-artgallery 01302 734293

Fat Cat Moto Parc Holmewood Lane Armthorpe Doncaster DN3 3EH www.fatcatmotoparc.com 07990 514 509 Frenchgate Shopping Centre St Sepulchre Gate Doncaster DN1 1SW www.frenchgateshopping.co.uk 01302 368335 Hatfield Outdoor Activity Centre Old Thorne Road Hatfield Doncaster DN7 6EQ www.dclt.co.uk/venues/hatfield-outdooractivity-centre 01302 841572

Hummingbird Helicopters Hangar 3 Fourth Avenue Doncaster Sheffield Airport Doncaster DN9 3GE www.hummingbirdhelicopters.co.uk 01302 802221 Junction 3 Clay Shooting Hall Balk Lane Loversall Doncaster DN11 9DG www.junction3clayshoot.co.uk 07931 554986 Keepmoat Stadium Stadium Way Doncaster DN4 5JW www.keepmoatstadium.com 01302 762590

Adwick Leisure Complex

Kings Own Light Infantry Museum Doncaster Museum Cedar Road Doncaster DN1 2AE www.doncaster.gov.uk/services/cultureleisure-tourism/king-s-own-yorkshire-lightinfantry-museum 01302 734293

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Lakeside Village White Rose Way Doncaster DN4 5PJ www.lakeside-village.co.uk 01302 366444 Markham Grange Steam Museum Longlands Lane Brodsworth Doncaster DN5 7XB www.markhamgrange steammuseum.co.uk 01302 330430 Nixim Motorsim 24 Queensgate Waterdale Shopping Centre Doncaster DN1 3JN www.niximmotorsim.com 01302 556554 Pirate Cove Adventure Golf Kingswood Golf Centre Thorne Road Doncaster DN7 6EP www.kingswoodgolfcentre.co.uk /pirate-cove-adventure-golf 01405 741343

Potteric Carr Nature Reserve Sedum House Mallard Way Doncaster DN4 8DB www.ywt.org.uk/potteric-carr 01302 570077 Roots Music Club The Ukranian Centre 45 Beckett Road Doncaster DN2 4AD www.rootsmusicclub.co.uk 07939 148603 Sandall Park Thorne Road Wheatley Doncaster DN2 5DY www.sandallpark.org.uk Sandoft Trolley Bus Museum Belton Road Sandtoft Doncaster DN8 5SX www.sandtoft.org.uk 01724 711391

South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum Dakota Way Airbourne Road Doncaster DN4 7FB www.southyorkshire aircraftmuseum.org.uk 01302 761616 Sunnybank Garden Centre Hatfield House The Manor Bawtry Road Doncaster DN7 6PH www.sunnybankgardens.co.uk 01302 842954

Vue Cinema Doncaster Leisure Park Herten Way Doncaster DN4 7NW www.myvue.com/cinema/doncaster/ whats-on 08712 240240 Yorkshire Wildlife Park Warning Tongue Lane Branton Doncaster DN4 6TB www.yorkshirewildlifepark.com 01302 535057

Tenpin The Leisure Park Bawtry Road Doncaster DN4 7PD www.tenpin.co.uk/our-locations/ doncaster 0871 2223675

Sandtoft Trolley Bus Museum

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Hatfield Water Park

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> H E LPF U L SU GGESTION S

Scicluna Deli

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INSPIRE ME… We hope this guide gives you an insight into all the great things here in Doncaster...but here’s a few ideas to help you make the most of your stay.

Little Theatre

Bawtry Paintball Fields

Holiday Inn Express J3 M18

24 hrs in Doncaster

48 hrs with the kids

So you’ve got 24 hours in Doncaster why not try:

You’re here for 48 hours with children, here’s our rough guide to the best way to fill your time and keep the kids entertained.

Morning: Immerse yourself in the shopping experience, take in Frenchgate with its 90 retail, food and drink outlets.

Then venture outside to the buzzing Markets area where you’ll find the best meat, fish and fresh produce alongside the deli stalls of the International Food Market. The Edwardian Tea Rooms on High Street close to Frenchgate and Baxtergate is a great place for lunch.

Stay: The Holiday Inn Express just off junction 3 of the M18 is a perfect place for families. Three miles from Doncaster town centre, the hotel offers 94 modern rooms and a restaurant, free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast included.

Afternoon: Head out of town and soak up the splendour of Brodsworth Hall and Gardens. Built in the 1860’s this Victorian family home allows a step back in time or a walk in the fully restored gardens. Don’t forget afternoon tea before you leave.

Evening: Doncaster’s little gem the Little Theatre on King Street has a great programme, so make sure you take a look before you plan your visit and book early as they have just 99 seats. Then round off your evening at Relish, where the extensive menu accompanied by a great range of drinks and cocktails will end your day in style.

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Day1: Following breakfast head off to the Yorkshire Wildlife Park and into the world of the animals at the UK’s No.1 Walkthrough Wildlife Adventure! There’s family fun all day long with walkthrough safari animal areas, a full programme of ranger talks and feeding time, indoor and outdoor play areas as well as cafes and shops in the new Safari Village.

Evening: If you’ve still got the stamina how about a trip to the Dome where you’ll find plenty to do including ice skating and swimming in the flumes and pools. Then round off your day with a bite to eat at one of the great selection of food outlets nearby.

Day 2: Following breakfast head out to Bawtry Paintball Fields for a spot of Laser Combat or Junior Paintball where we know you’ll all love the high adrenaline fun and excitement of Europe’s biggest paintball centre.

Then why not slow things down a little before you head home with a trip to Cusworth Hall, a beautiful Grade I listed building set in acres of historic parkland with lakes and beautiful gardens to explore.

There’s also the Cusworth Hall Museum hosed inside with over 36000 objects on display ranging from toys and games to clothes and kitchen equipment. The museum is a must for families and so is the on-site tea rooms and bistro.

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48 hours just together When planning your visit to Doncaster remember to check out the racing calendar and book early if you’re interested in attending the races.

Stay: Just outside the town centre in Bawtry at the 4 star Crown Hotel. Parking on site and free Wi-Fi compliment the superior rooms and elegant bar and restaurant area. The hotel offers theatre breaks in association with the nearby Cast theatre so check out the programme before you book.

Day 1: If you’re looking for shopping then on your doorstep is the picturesque village of Bawtry with its independent retailers, small arcades of unusual shops and galleries for you to explore. Make time for a coffee stop at Feast or The Gray Rooms or for real decadence try the Classic and Contemporary Cake Co - all of whom cater for special diets.

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Spend the rest of the day browsing Doncaster’s historic food market and make sure you pop into the Marketplace Alehouse and Deli for mid-afternoon refreshments.

Serious shoppers should head to Lakeside Village or Frenchgate Centre before heading back to Bawtry to enjoy food and drinks at one of the many stylish restaurants and bars.

Day 2: After breakfast make your way to Hummingbird Helicopters where you can take a flight over Doncaster. From a short 20 minute flight to an hour you’ll get to enjoy the beautiful countryside and take in some of the major local landmarks from the air. With your feet firmly back on the ground head into the town centre and enjoy a Sunday lunch in the intimate setting of the fabulous Rum Rooms.

Rewind

Lord Hurst’s

Doncaster Brewery

Doncaster has some real gems and any visit should try and take in some of the following.

Before returning to Bawtry to depart take a stroll around the lake at Lakeside or enjoy Sandall Park or Elmfield Park or one of the many green spaces close to the town centre.

Bawtry

Lakeside

Doncaster BreweryA must try experience!

Lord Hurst’s floristry and coffee shop

Doncaster Brewery is about more than beer, it’s about all that’s great in Doncaster!

Established in 2012 by husband and wife team Alison and Ian Blaylock the brewery is now the place to meet friends, join in and have a great time.

Bennetthorpe is home to Lord Hurst’s floristry and coffee shop. Fantastic homemade soups, sandwiches and cakes served by ‘his Lordship’ and staff. The quirky and unusual interior reveals an extended and sumptuously decorated conservatory area that can be booked for private parties and events.

The range of drinks on offer is quite extensive with 6 real ales, 6 rotating traditional ciders, 3 keg beers and over 70 European Bottled beers.

Events range from live music and the Ukulele group to singing and spoken word nights where everyone is encouraged to join in. Then there’s ‘Have a Crafty One’ the Brewery’s own craft group and ‘Stammtisch’ or German conversation evening whilst Sundays see a complimentary buffet lunch of locally produced pies and cheeses.

A packed house is guaranteed and a welcome for all in this town centre located gem.

Doncaster Brewery Young Street Doncaster 07770 958394

Rewind Waterdale is home to Rewind a fabulous curiosity of vintage and modern day collectibles. This shop is a must visit for collectors of anything unusual and unique.

Rock and pop memorabilia sits alongside objet d’art and antique items along with plenty of the downright weird!

Scicluna Deli Scicluna Deli on High Fisher Gate is a fantastic find for food lovers. The staff have a great knowledge of food and the range of goods astounding but what’s more if they haven’t got something they’ll do their best to get it. Whether its ingredients for your own cooking, or gifts for friends then Scicluna is an experience not just a shop.

Sunnybank Gardens The Visit Doncaster website contains full details of what’s available and what’s on - visitdoncaster.com.

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Ice Cream lovers head to Sunnybank Gardens to the only home-made ice cream parlour in the Doncaster area. Forty varieties, fresh Yorkshire milk and double cream and the rest – well that’s a secret but it all tastes delicious!

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> ACC OMMODATION

visitdoncaster.com

F AN CY STAY I NG O V E R ?

We have a great variety of hotels, guest houses and self catering facilities to suit all budgets and tastes.

> HOTEL S Best Western Pastures Lodge Pastures Road Mexborough Doncaster S64 0JJ 08443 876267 www.bestwestern.co.uk Best Western Premier Mount Pleasant Great North Road Doncaster DN11 0HW 01302 868696 www.mountpleasant.co.uk Campanile Hotel Doncaster Leisure Park Bawtry Road Doncaster DN4 7PD 02075 195045 www.campanile-doncaster.co.uk Crown Hotel Market Place Bawtry Doncaster DN10 6JW 01302 710341 www.crown-hotelbawtry.com 38

Earl of Doncaster Bennetthorpe Doncaster DN2 6AD 01302 361371 www.theearl.co.uk Express by Holiday Inn Bullrush Grove Balby Doncaster DN4 8SJ 01302 314100 www.hiexdoncaster.co.uk Fair Green Hotel Horse Fair Green Thorne Doncaster DN8 5EE 01405 817117 Grand St Leger Bennetthorpe Doncaster DN2 6AX 01302 364111 www.grandstleger.com

Holiday Inn High Road Warmsworth Doncaster DN4 9UX 0871 423 4896 www.holidayinn.co.uk

Park Inn Decoy Bank South White Rose Way Doncaster DN4 5PD 01302 760710 www.doncaster.parkinn.co.uk

Inn Keepers Lodge Bawtry Road Bessacarr Doncaster DN4 7BS 0845 155 1551 www.innkeeperslodge.com

Premier Inn Central High Fishergate Doncaster DN1 1QZ 0871 527 8302 www.premierinn.co.uk

Mercure Doncaster Central Danum Hotel High Street Doncaster DN1 1DN 01302 342261 www.mercure.com Owston Hall Owston Doncaster DN6 9JF 01302 722800 www.owstonhall.com

Premier Inn Central East Herton Way Doncaster DN4 7NW 0871 527 8304 www.premierinn.co.uk Premier Inn Lakeside Wilmington Drive Doncaster DN4 5PJ 0871 527 8300 www.premierinn.co.uk

Best Western Mount Pleasant Hotel

Ramada Encore (Doncaster Sheffield Airport) First Avenue Finningley Doncaster DN9 3GP 0808 100 0783 www.ramada.co.uk

Travelodge Doncaster M18/M180 Junction 5 M18 Hatfield Doncaster DN8 5GS 0871 984 6132 www.travelodge.co.uk

Red Lion Hotel 37 -38 Market Place, Doncaster DN1 1NH Tel: 01302 732120 www.jdwetherspoon.com

Travelodge Lakeside Lakeside Boulevard Doncaster DN4 5PL Tel: 0871 984 6514 www.travelodge.co.uk

Regent Hotel Regent Square Doncaster DN1 2DS 01302 364180 www.theregenthotel.co.uk

Travelodge North Doncaster A1 Great North Road Skellow Doncaster DN6 8LR 0871 984 6131 www.travelodge.co.uk

Rossington Hall Great North Road, Doncaster DN11 0HR Tel: 01302 866822 Rossingtonhall.co.uk

Ye Olde Bell Barnby Moor Retford Nottinghamshire DN22 8QS 01777 705121 www.yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk

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> ACC OMMODATION

visitdoncaster.com

> G U EST H O U SE S Angel Inn Dame Lane Misson Doncaster DN10 6EB 01302 711761 www.angel-misson.co.uk Balmoral Hotel 129 Thorne Road Doncaster DN2 5BH 01302 364385 www.thebalmoralguesthouse.co.uk Beverley Inn and Hotel 117 Thorne Road Edenthorpe Doncaster DN3 2JE 01302 882724 www.beverleyinnandhotel.com Fishlake Mill Eastfield Road Fishlake Doncaster DN7 5LH 01302 841486 www.fishlakemill.co.uk Hannah’s Guest House 72 Sunderland Street Tickhill Doncaster DN11 9EG 01302 752233 www.hannahsguesthouse.com

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Lakeside

> SE LF CATE RING Kellett Hotel 87 - 89 Thorne Road Doncaster DN1 2ES 01302 321248 www.kelletthotel.co.uk

The Reindeer Inn Thorne Road Sandtoft DN8 5SZ 01724 710774 www.thereindeerinn.co.uk

Cosy Terrace Cottage 4 Trent Terrace Conisbrough Doncaster DN12 3DL 01709 580612

Laburnum Villas 1 Laburnum Villas Station Road Blaxton Doncaster DN9 3AA

Thorne Central Guest House 11a Queen Street Thorne Doncaster DN8 5AA 01405 818358 www.thornecentralguesthouse.co.uk

Enfield Cottages Blyth Road Oldcotes Worksop S81 8JL 01909 540225 www.enfieldcottages.com

Truffle Lodge Trundle Lane Doncaster DN7 5LN 01302 842222 www.trufflelodge.co.uk

Home Farm Lodge High Street Austerfield Doncaster DN10 6QU 07516 102676 www.homefarmandlodge.co.uk

Mayflower Bar Eatery and Boutique Inn High Street Austerfield Doncaster DN10 6QU 01302 714289 www.mayflowerbarandeatery.co.uk Rigsby’s Guest House 84 Thorne Road.

Doncaster, DN2 5BL 01302 368532 www.rigsbysguesthousedoncaster.com

Wheatley Hotel Thorne Road, Wheatley Hills, Doncaster DN2 5DR 01302 364092 www.thewheatleyhotel.co.uk

> CAM PS IT ES Self-Catering Cottages Mount Pleasant Hotel Great North Road Doncaster DN11 OHW 01302 868696 www.mountpleasant.co.uk

Elder House Touring Park Sandtoft Road Thorne Levels Thorne Doncaster DN8 5TD 01405 813 173

The Granary in Wroot Rye House High Street Doncaster DN9 2BT 01302 265130 www.thegranaryinwroot.co.uk

Hatfield Water Park Old Thorne Road Doncaster DN7 6EQ 01302 841572 www.dclt.co.uk/venues/hatfield-outdooractivity-centre/ Mandalay Caravan Site Fenwick Common Lane Fenwick Doncaster DN6 0FB 01302 702633

Old Police House Annex Chapel Walk, Rawmarsh Rotherham S62 7DR 01709 301 551 www.theoldpolicehouse.co.uk

Stables Arches Boutique Hooton Pagnell Estate Hooton Pagnell Doncaster South Yorkshire DN5 7BW 01977 650759 www.stablearches.co.uk

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> CO N F E RE N CE S A N D E X H IBITIO N S

AN EXCELLENT CHOICE OF VENUES

visitdoncaster.com

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A Great Position to be in Doncaster’s location means it’s not only a great place for leisure and business, but it’s also the perfect destination for all your venue and conferencing needs.

We’re probably the UK’s best connected location with excellent road, rail, air and sea infrastructure and just 88 mins from Central London. We boast the UK’s fastest growing international airport outside London too.

When size does matter Whether you’re looking for a large conference venue or a smaller meeting place Doncaster has something to offer you. Town centre hotels, well known brands or independent hoteliers can cater for audiences of all sizes. If it’s a more rural setting you’re looking for then Doncaster has those too; and what’s more all are well connected to the road networks and accessible from the town centre, railway station or airport.

In addition we have the splendour of the world class facilities at the Doncaster Racecourse and Exhibition Centre and multi-use venues such as The Dome, all within easy travelling distance and all able to offer a tailored solution for your needs.

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> TOU RIST IN F OR M ATION C E NT RE

R I G HT AT T H E C ENTR E OF I T Doncaster’s Tourist Information Centre is located right in the heart of the town centre next to the Mansion House. Our friendly staff with excellent local knowledge will help you get the most from your visit to Doncaster.

The Tourist Information Centre sells a large range of Doncaster and Yorkshire souvenirs as well as tickets for National Express and local First bus passes.

It also sells tickets for a number of local events including those at the Little Theatre, plus Afternoon Tea at the Mansion House.

Doncaster Tourist Information Centre 1 Priory Place Doncaster DN1 1BN

Opening Times: > Monday-Friday 09:30 – 17:00 > Saturday 10:00 – 15:30 > Sunday Closed

Tel: 01302 734309 Email: tourist.information@doncaster.gov.uk Web: www.visitdoncaster.com Visit Doncaster For group travel enquiries please contact: richard.young@doncaster.gov.uk

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