Still wondering what to do in Doncaster? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Doncaster and book your hotel today!
Doncaster, Yorkshire’s newest city, is famous worldwide for its long-standing connection to horse racing and its deep historical roots. The city is home to the world-renowned Doncaster Racecourse, one of the oldest in the country, which hosts the prestigious St Leger Festival. Beyond the turf, Doncaster offers a wealth of magnificent Georgian and Regency architecture.
You can explore the grand Doncaster Mansion House, one of only three in England, or visit the imposing Doncaster Minster (St. George's), which features Roman wall remnants. Just outside the city, the romantic medieval ruin of Conisbrough Castle offers a dramatic historical excursion. From its rich railway heritage to the nearby wildlife attractions, Doncaster provides a solid, engaging Yorkshire break.
The best location for your Doncaster hotel is one that balances proximity to the historic town centre and easy access to the main transport and sporting venues.
The area around the Town Centre and Doncaster Minster is the most convenient choice. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the main shopping areas, the Mansion House, and the historic Doncaster Market. This central hub is ideal for visitors who want immediate access to history and culture.
For sports and event-focused visitors, accommodation near the Doncaster Racecourse and the Keepmoat Stadium (home of Doncaster Rovers FC) is a great option. This area is slightly outside the main centre but is well-connected by local buses and main roads, offering a different kind of vibrancy on match days.
Doncaster is served by a central railway station, Doncaster Station, which is a major interchange on the East Coast Main Line, with excellent links to London, Leeds, and Edinburgh. The station is very close to the town centre, making it highly accessible. The city is also conveniently located near the A1(M) motorway. Local bus services are extensive, connecting the town centre with peripheral attractions like Conisbrough Castle and the Yorkshire Wildlife Park.
Hotel prices in Doncaster are highly sensitive to its famous horse racing calendar. The absolute highest prices occur during the annual St Leger Festival in September, which causes accommodation rates across the entire city to soar and sell out well in advance.
The best value is found during the quieter winter months, from November to March, outside of the main Christmas and New Year periods. A unique tip for Doncaster is to consult the Doncaster Racecourse schedule and specifically avoid any major festival or race dates, particularly on weekends. Booking a hotel on the outskirts of the city, away from the central area and the racecourse, can also lead to better rates, especially for mid-week stays.