Doncaster is a town located in South Yorkshire, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. With a population of over 300,000, it has become a popular destination for buyers and renters looking for a place to call home. In this article, we will explore the various aspects that make Doncaster a unique and exciting place to live.

Where is Doncaster?

Doncaster is located in South Yorkshire, just over 20 miles northeast of Sheffield and 30 miles southeast of Leeds. It is also close to the large towns of Barnsley and Rotherham. The town lies in the Metropolitan Borough of Doncaster, which includes Mexborough, Thorne, and Hatfield and is the largest borough in England by geographic area.

Places to live in Doncaster

Doncaster offers a range of options for buyers and renters, from vibrant town centre apartments to semi-rural and rural villages. Suburbs and suburban villages close to the town centre include Balby, Wheatley, and Cusworth. Further out from the middle of town are a host of semi-rural and rural villages, including Blaxton, Austerfield, Cadeby, Tickhill, Wadworth, Westwoodside, Epworth, Haxey, and Campsall.

Property prices in Doncaster

Property prices in Doncaster are considerably less expensive than in other large UK towns, with the average cost of properties in Doncaster in the 12 months to May 2021 being £152,010 compared to the national average of £251,500. The cost by property type in Doncaster is as follows:

• Detached house: £253,542
• Semi-detached house: £132,763
• Terraced house: £94,773
• Flat/apartment: £86,972

Renting property in Doncaster

Rental properties in Doncaster are split fairly evenly between flats and houses and include period homes, modern flats, and conversions in town and some larger family homes further out. The average monthly rent in Doncaster was £568 per month* in May 2021 – a 5% increase on the previous year.

Council Tax in Doncaster

The amount of council tax you will pay in Doncaster depends on the band your property falls into. A Band A property can expect to pay just over £1,100 a year, while Band C and D properties will pay between £1,569 and £1,765. The most expensive Band H homes will pay just over £3,500.

Doncaster’s History

Doncaster has a rich history dating back to Roman times when it was an important trading post. The town played a significant role in the Industrial Revolution, with the first steam locomotive built in Doncaster back in 1829. The famous Flying Scotsman train was also built in Doncaster in 1922.

Doncaster’s Famous Racecourse

Doncaster is best known for being home to one of the oldest racecourses in the world. Doncaster racecourse runs the oldest classic race in the world – the St Leger Stakes. The festival takes place in September and is the highlight of the flat racing season.

Education in Doncaster

Doncaster has a range of schools, both primary and secondary, earning the prestigious ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted. There are 18 primary schools across the DN postcode area that carry this rating, including Kirkby Avenue Primary, Scawsby Saltersgate Junior, Sprotborough Orchard Infant School, Warmsworth Primary, Hill Top Academy, Rowena Academy, Tickhill Estfield Primary, Askern Littlemoor Infant Academy, and St Oswald’s CofE Academy. Doncaster is also home to a number of ‘Outstanding’ secondary schools, including XP School and Hungerhill School. Doncaster College has around 1,200 students studying Higher National Diplomas, Foundation Degrees, Degrees, and Mas.

Getting Around Doncaster

Doncaster’s location in the heart of South Yorkshire means many of northern England’s other major towns and cities are within easy reach by rail or road. Doncaster station runs direct trains into Manchester Piccadilly, taking around one hour 20 minutes to reach the city. Trans Pennine Express services into Sheffield, meanwhile, take less than 30 minutes, while the fast LNER train from Doncaster to Leeds takes just 33 minutes – making Doncaster a great option for commuters into those two Yorkshire cities.

Doncaster’s Best Restaurants and Pubs

Doncaster is home to a number of restaurants and traditional pubs both in the town centre and in the many villages that surround the town. Some of the best pubs in Doncaster include The Eden Arms, The Little Plough, The Windmill, The Scarborough Arms, and The Eagle & Child. Some of the best restaurants include La Fiesta, Zammuto, Cactus Jack, La Rustica, and Canters Bistro.

Things to Do in Doncaster

Doncaster’s location in South Yorkshire means plenty of options to explore the open green space of the Peak District, which is just a short drive away. The Yorkshire Wildlife Park is a great option for a day out with the children. The South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum is another great venue for plane enthusiasts. For shoppers, the Frenchgate centre is home to a large number of high street brands, while the Lakeside Village Outlet has 45 stores offering year-round discounts. Sport lovers should take in a League One game at Doncaster Rovers’ Keepmoat Stadium. And, of course, no visit to Doncaster is complete without taking in a flat meeting at the world-renowned St Leger Festival that takes place in September.

In conclusion, Doncaster is a vibrant town with a rich history and a range of options for buyers and renters. From its famous racecourse to its great schools and excellent transportation links, Doncaster has something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, a sports enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, Doncaster is the perfect place to call home.

William Shipe