Doncaster – or ‘Donny’ if you’re a local – is a town with a long history and unique charm.

One of the longest-standing staples of life here is Doncaster Market. For over 2,000 years, this has been one of the major draws for residents and visitors alike.

Today, the market runs three times a week and includes major highlights like the Corn Exchange. This restored Victorian building is filled with stores offering everything from fashion and food to wool and watch repairs. As well as wares for sale, the Corn Exchange has an area called The Forum, which is dedicated to crafting. Here, you can try card making and other activities.

Here for the races? Doncaster plays host to the St Ledger festival, the oldest classic horse race in the world. Held at Doncaster Racecourse, this annual event attracts over 54,000 racing lovers from across Yorkshire and beyond.

If you long to step back in time, there are several sites to head to while you’re here. The Grade I-listed Mansion House is a must for history buffs. This is one of just three original Georgian mansion houses in the country and its awe-inspiring architecture is well worth a visit. You’ll also find stately homes such as Brodsworth Hall nearby.

Conisbrough and Tickhill castles can also be found here. These two impressive Norman creations are stunning fortresses. Although it’s tricky to book a visit to Tickhill, it’s possible to book tours of Conisbrough Castle, which inspired Sir Walter Scott’s Ivanhoe and is filled with carefully restored areas that allow visitors to envisage what life was like here over the centuries.  

Board the next Wakefield Kirkgate to Doncaster train to explore this Yorkshire town and its stunning surroundings for yourself.