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From Doncaster to Goole: Pints, Ports & Platforms
I had a day out exploring Doncaster and Goole, taking in a fantastic mix of historic pubs, brewery taps and community locals along the way. The day started in Doncaster, where I visited everything from the railway-themed Draughtsman Alehouse to the historic Little Plough and Masons Arms, alongside brewery venues such as Doncaster Brewery & Tap and Don Valley Tap. After a short train ride to Goole, I enjoyed discovering welcoming pubs, the impressive transformation of Goole Market Hall into Brew+, and the characterful Tom Pudding. Along the way I sampled some excellent cask ales, met some great people and uncovered plenty of local history.
Doncaster and Goole may be only around 25 miles apart, but both have played important roles in Yorkshire’s story. Doncaster grew from a Roman settlement and later became a busy market town, famous for horse racing, railways and engineering. Goole is much younger, developing in the 1820s around a new dock on the Aire and Calder Navigation. The town quickly became one of Britain’s most important inland ports, handling goods from across the country and beyond. Today, both places combine rich industrial heritage with proud local communities, historic pubs and plenty of reminders of their fascinating past.
Doncaster
Check out the “Donny Dozen Ale Trail” online – CLICK HERE
The Draughtsman Alehouse
My first call was to The Draughtsman Alehouse. The Draughtsman Alehouse, a place I’ve been to many times before. This opened on 26th April 2017 on Platform 3b, and it took over the old Victorian Buffet Bar, which had been empty for 18 years. The name “Draughtsman” pays tribute to Russ Thompson’s late dad, Barry Melvin Godfrey Thompson, who was a draughtsman for train engines at Doncaster station before he sadly passed away in 1978. This family tie to railway history is a big part of what makes the pub special. Inside, you’ll find memorabilia linked to his father’s work, along with touches that highlight the area’s rich history.
Inside, the Draughtsman Alehouse makes a real feature of its railway heritage. Original glazed wall tiles, decorative brickwork and high ceilings give the room plenty of character, while framed locomotive drawings, historic railway photographs and station-inspired details reinforce the theme throughout. The timber-fronted bar sits beneath a row of warm pendant lights, with shelves of bottles and railway memorabilia adding interest behind it. Comfortable bench seating runs along the walls, alongside smaller tables and stools that make good use of the space. One particularly eye-catching feature is the old station fireplace with its large mirror and decorative display, helping the pub feel both distinctive and welcoming.
It was great catching up with Luke in here, as well as Dean from Doncaster CAMRA. On the bar a selection of 3 cask ales, alongside a range of keg lines and a well stocked can fridge. I went for Future Folklore by Pentrich Brewing Co, a hazy pale ale with bright citrus and tropical fruit notes and a soft, juicy finish.
The Leopard
Next up was The Leopard. The Leopard is one of Doncaster’s longest-established pubs and has been welcoming drinkers for well over a century. Originally owned by local brewers Alfred M. Eadon & Co., the building was rebuilt in the early 1900s by Newark brewers Warwick & Richardson, who left a lasting mark on both the pub and the streetscape. Their influence can still be seen today in the striking green glazed tiles and the large “Newark Ales and Stouts” lettering that stretches across the frontage, making the building one of Doncaster’s most recognisable pub exteriors. Thanks to its prominent town-centre location, The Leopard has remained a familiar sight for generations, surviving changing times while retaining its place in the town’s rich pub and brewing history.
Inside mixes traditional pub features with a more modern look. Large bay windows bring plenty of natural light into the front seating areas, where high-backed upholstered booths and wooden tables provide comfortable places to sit. Elsewhere, green walls, patterned carpet and a brick fireplace help retain some of the character of the older building. Artwork, gig posters and local touches add interest without overwhelming the rooms. There’s a good variety of seating, from cosy booths to larger tables for groups. Outside, a spacious beer garden offers plenty of bench seating, covered areas and room to spread out on warmer days.
Drinks wise on the bar a choice of 5 cask ales to choose from, alongside a range of ciders and keg options. I went for Lumina by Siren Craft Brew, a session IPA with juicy mango, pineapple and citrus notes and a smooth, balanced finish.
The Little Plough
Crossing over the road in Doncaster brought me onto The Little Plough. The Little Plough on West Laith Gate is one of Doncaster’s most historic pubs and has long been a favourite with local drinkers. The pub dates back to the 19th century, but its biggest transformation came in 1934 when it was remodelled by Hewitt Brothers of Grimsby, who were major pub owners in the town at the time. Much of that 1930s layout survives today, earning the pub a place on CAMRA’s National Inventory of Historic Pub Interiors. Original features, including its distinctive multi-room design and traditional fittings, help preserve the character of an interwar pub. Today, it remains a well-loved city-centre local and an important part of Doncaster’s pub heritage.
Inside retains the feel of a traditional community pub, with two distinct rooms connected by original doorways and glazed screens. The central bar serves both spaces and is surrounded by dark woodwork, stained glass and plenty of well-preserved period features. One room has a cosy lounge feel, with deep button-back bench seating, patterned carpets, framed photographs and shelves displaying decorative china. The bar area is packed with character, featuring old trophies, collections of beer bottles, historic memorabilia and traditional fittings. Outside, a small courtyard provides a pleasant spot for a drink, adding another corner to a pub that proudly celebrates its long history.
Drinks wise on the bar a selection of 4 cask ales to choose from, along with a choice of keg options. I went for Sunburst Ale by Pennine Brewing Co., a red ale with earthy malt, subtle blackcurrant notes and a smooth, satisfying finish.
Doncaster Brewery & Tap
My next visit was toDoncaster Brewery & Tap. Doncaster Brewery was founded in January 2012 by Ian Blaylock, who swapped a career in the motor trade to pursue his passion for brewing. The brewery originally operated from Coopers Mill Business Park on the outskirts of town, building a following for its locally brewed ales. In 2014, the business moved to its current home on Young Street in Doncaster town centre, allowing the brewery to open a dedicated taproom alongside its brewing operation. The move helped raise the brewery’s profile and bring its beers closer to local drinkers. Today, Doncaster Brewery remains an established part of the town’s independent beer scene.
Inside is arranged around a single main room with a long bar running across the rear wall. Wooden tables, stools and bench seating provide plenty of places to sit, while brewery T-shirts, framed artwork and photographs decorate the walls. The green-painted panelling, dark wooden floorboards and hanging lamps give the room a relaxed and comfortable look, while shelves behind the bar are packed with bottles and glassware. Near the entrance, an upright piano and several guitars add character to the space. Upstairs is a separate lounge with sofas, armchairs and low tables, reached by passing part of the brewery on the way up.
A fantastic line up on the bar with 6 cask ales, 6 ciders and a range of craft keg options to choose from. I went for Abiah by Doncaster Brewery, an American amber ale with rich malt character and a smooth, easy-drinking finish.
The Hallcross
A short walk brought me next to The Hallcross. The Hallcross occupies a prominent position on Hall Gate, one of Doncaster’s oldest streets and a historic route into the town dating back many centuries. The building itself began life as the Hall Cross Hotel and became a familiar part of Doncaster town life during the Victorian era. Over the years it welcomed travellers, shoppers and local residents as the town grew around it. Like many traditional town-centre pubs, it has adapted to changing times while remaining a well-known landmark on Hall Gate. Its name reflects the historic Hall Cross monument nearby, which has long been associated with this part of Doncaster. Today, it remains an established part of the town’s pub scene.
Inside is a spacious single-room pub with plenty of seating spread throughout. Deep-buttoned red and green bench seating lines the walls and divides parts of the room, while wooden tables and traditional chairs provide plenty of places to settle down. Dark wall panelling, framed photographs, newspaper cuttings and historic Doncaster memorabilia give the pub plenty of character, with a large Hallcross Stocks Ales sign forming a centrepiece on one wall. Large windows at the front bring in natural light and help brighten the space during the day. Outside, a small seating area on Hall Gate offers a spot to sit with a drink and watch the world pass by.
A great line up of 5 cask ales to choose from on the bar, along with a selection of keg choices. I went for Old Horizontal by Stocks Brewing Co., an old ale with rich malt flavour, dark fruit notes and a smooth, warming finish.
The Queen Crafthouse & Kitchen
Heading back towards the Market Place brought me to The Queen Crafthouse & Kitchen. The Queen is an old, established Doncaster city-centre pub, standing close to the market place on the corner of Sunny Bar. It has served local drinkers for many years and has changed with the city around it. At one stage it had a brief spell as a restaurant, but later returned to its pub roots as The Queen Crafthouse and Cantina. Its recent restoration helped bring new life to the building while keeping it as a familiar meeting place. Today, it remains a well-known part of Doncaster’s pub scene, with a history rooted in everyday city-centre life.
Inside has a distinctive look that blends dark timber, reclaimed wood and industrial-style features. The open layout provides plenty of space, with a mixture of tables, chairs, red bench seating and snug-style booths spread throughout the pub. Colourful decorations hang from the ceiling, while walls are covered with artwork, signs and rows of pump clips that add plenty of personality. Decorative birdcage light fittings, exposed bulbs and wooden panelling help tie everything together. A raised seating area near the front offers another place to settle in, while large windows bring in natural light during the day.
A great selection of beers on the bar, with them showcasing 5 cask ales, alongside 8 craft keg lines and more. I went for CBA…Because Reasons…Probably by Imperial Brewery, a pale ale with bright citrus hop notes and a fresh, easy-drinking finish.
The Masons Arms
Onto The Masons Arms. The Masons Arms is one of Doncaster’s oldest pubs and has stood in the Market Place since at least the mid-19th century. Records show a Masons Arms trading here in 1856, making it a long-established part of the town centre. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries it was associated with the Thomas Vaux brewery before later becoming part of the Joshua Tetley estate and being designated a Tetley Heritage Inn. Much of its historic character has survived, particularly in the front bar, which is recognised by CAMRA as being of special national historic interest. Today, it remains an important link to Doncaster’s pub heritage. (Of note this pub is changing hands and unfortunately will be changing the inside where the bar area is and removing cask ales from the pub).
Inside offers much more than first impressions suggest. The main bar has a traditional feel, with dark woodwork, a characterful bar counter and bench seating running beneath the front windows. Beyond this, a series of connected rooms provide a variety of places to sit, ranging from cosy booths to quieter tables around a brick fireplace. Music-themed wallpaper, artwork and decorative lighting add plenty of interest without overwhelming the space. A narrow passage leads out to a surprisingly large rear courtyard, reached via a gravel path. The outdoor area combines covered seating, wall art, exposed brickwork and plenty of room to relax with a drink.
On the bar a selection of 2 cask ales alongside a number of keg options.
I went for Jorvik Blonde by Rudgate Brewery, a blonde ale with delicate citrus notes and a light, refreshing finish.
Don Valley Tap
Last up in Doncaster was to Don Valley Brewery Tap (by Don Valley Brewery). Don Valley Tap is part of the modern revival of Doncaster’s historic market area. Located within the restored Wool Market, it sits inside one of the town’s most significant market buildings, originally built in 1863 as a dedicated wool market. Following a major restoration project, the Wool Market reopened in 2019 as a food, drink and retail destination, bringing new life to a historic part of the town centre. Don Valley Tap became part of that transformation, helping introduce independent beer to the market complex. Although relatively new, it forms part of the continuing story of Doncaster Market, which has been at the heart of town life for centuries.
Inside, Don Valley Tap forms part of the spacious Wool Market, with its own distinctive bar sitting beneath the market’s impressive ironwork roof and large glazed frontage. The main bar features dark wood panelling, brass detailing and hanging glassware, while large gold lettering and trailing plants help it stand out within the hall. High tables, stools and barrel tables provide seating close to the bar, with plenty more available throughout the wider market. String lights and natural daylight give the space a bright feel, and a second Don Valley Tap bar known as the Corner Bar offers additional serving space. It feels lively, open and very much part of the market around it.
On their main bar a selection of 3 cask ales, a cider and a selection of keg choices, with the Corner Bar just serving a range of keg options. I went for Mardy Bum by Don Valley Brewery, a pale ale with citrus hop notes and a bright, refreshing finish.
Goole
The Steam Packet
I headed out on the train for a 20 minute journey to Goole. A 15 minute walk from the station brought me to The Steam Packet Goole. The Steam Packet is a long-established community pub that has served this part of Goole for many years. Its name reflects the town’s strong connection to shipping, waterways and the steam-powered vessels that helped make Goole one of Britain’s most important inland ports. The pub became a focal point for local residents as the surrounding housing estates developed during the twentieth century, offering a welcoming place to meet, socialise and celebrate community events. A new chapter began on 30 March 2025 when the pub came under new management, with Mark – grandson of former Macintosh Arms landlords Mel and Heather – taking over the business. Today, it continues to play an important role at the heart of the local community.
Inside centres around a large open room with plenty of space for both drinkers and pub games. A full-size pool table sits in one section, while a small stage area provides room for live entertainment and community events. Bench seating runs along the walls, complemented by tables and patterned chairs spread throughout the room. Large windows bring in natural light, helping keep the space bright during the day, while framed photographs, televisions and a large clock add interest to the walls. The overall feel is relaxed and welcoming, with a strong community atmosphere. Outside, there is a sizeable lawned beer garden with numerous picnic benches, along with a covered seating area for shelter.
It was fantastic meeting Mark and Lynn whilst here. IA choice of 2 cask ales on the bar both from local Jolly Sailor Brewery alongside a selection of keg options. I went for Overhaul by Jolly Sailor Brewery, a pale ale with fresh citrus hop notes and a clean, crisp finish.
Victoria Hotel
Another 15 minute walk brought me to Victoria Hotel. The Victoria Hotel is a traditional Goole pub that has been part of the town for many years. Situated on Hook Road, close to the River Ouse and the docks that helped shape Goole’s growth, it has long served local residents and workers from the surrounding area. Like many pubs in this part of town, its story is closely linked to Goole’s development as one of Britain’s most important inland ports during the 19th and 20th centuries. In more recent decades, the pub has remained a popular local, retaining its place in the community while continuing a long tradition of hospitality.
Inside has a comfortable, traditional feel, with dark wood panelling and fixed bench seating giving much of the room its character. Several cosy seating areas wrap around the walls, with small tables and stools providing plenty of places to sit and chat. A brick fireplace forms a natural focal point, topped with an impressive collection of trophies that reflect the pub’s place in the local community. Large bay windows bring in plenty of natural light and offer views across the green outside, while a pool table adds to the relaxed atmosphere. It feels welcoming, well-used and very much a proper local pub.
It was fantastic meeting and chatting with Tony when I arrived. Drinks wise on the bar a selection of 3 cask ales, along with a range of keg options. I went for Blonde Beauty by Dark Horse Brewery, a blonde ale with light citrus notes and a smooth, refreshing finish.
Goole Market Hall / Brew +
Next was to was to Goole Market Hall by Brew York. Brew+ Market Hall is the latest chapter in the story of Goole’s historic Market Hall. The Victorian building was opened in 1896 after an earlier market hall on the site was destroyed by fire, and for generations it was a busy hub for local shopping and trade. After the market eventually closed in 2019, the building stood largely unused until a major restoration project brought it back to life. In 2024, York-based brewery Brew York was chosen to operate the venue, transforming it into Brew+. Following a soft launch in March 2026 and full opening in April 2026, the building once again became a place where people gather, eat, drink and socialise.
Inside is dominated by the striking Victorian architecture of Goole Market Hall. The vast open space is framed by tall cast-iron columns, red brick walls and an intricate network of white-painted steelwork stretching across the ceiling. Large rooflights flood the hall with natural light, drawing attention to the scale of the building and its industrial heritage. At the centre sits the Brew+ bar, housed within a modern steel-framed structure that contrasts neatly with the historic surroundings. Seating is spread throughout the hall, allowing visitors to appreciate the architecture from every angle. Outside, a landscaped courtyard provides additional seating, with timber benches and decorative metal screens featuring birds, waterways and boating scenes that reflect Goole’s connection to the docks and surrounding landscape.
Food at Brew+ is provided by four independent traders operating within the Market Hall. Visitors can choose from freshly made bao buns and Asian-inspired dishes, hand-stretched pizza by the slice, gourmet burgers and baked goods including cakes, pastries and sweet treats.
On the bar a selection of 5 cask ales, including their house beer “Goole Tide Pale Ale”, alongside a varied selection of keg options. I went for Goole Tide Pale by Brew York, a pale ale with bright citrus and tropical fruit notes and a fresh, fruity finish.
Tom Pudding
My final call in Goole was to Tom Pudding. Tom Pudding opened in December 2017 in a former newsagent at 20 Pasture Road in Goole, founded by real-ale enthusiasts Simon Jarrold and Alan Lowey. Its name comes from the historic “tom puddings” — compartment boats used from the 1860s to transport coal along the Aire & Calder Navigation to Goole docks. The venue became well known quickly for its rotating cask ales and relaxed, conversation-focused atmosphere. In August 2025 it was taken over by Martin Bryars who was the manager, so the original owners could retire (again), marking a new chapter in the pub’s story while continuing its focus on traditional ale and community spirit.
Inside is a compact, cosy space with exposed brickwork and old timber beams that give it a warm, rustic character. Seating is simple and close-knit, encouraging conversation, with wooden benches and small tables arranged within a single open room. Decorations are understated but thoughtful, including railway and canal memorabilia that reflect Goole’s industrial past. Soft lighting and neatly maintained interiors create a welcoming atmosphere rather than a crowded one. It feels intimate, characterful and designed for relaxed socialising rather than loud entertainment.
A great warm welcome from Martin, Adi and the team alongside friend Dave and Jason. On the bar a selection of 4 cask ales, along with a still cider to choose from. I went for Bitter Truth by Truth Hurts Brewing, a best bitter with caramel and toffee malt flavours, followed by light citrus and spice notes and a smooth finish.
Leeds to Goole “Ghost Train”
The Leeds to Goole “ghost train” refers to the very limited passenger rail service that runs between Leeds and Goole via Knottingley. Only a handful of trains operate each day, stopping at rural stations like Hensall and Snaith, with no Sunday service. This minimal timetable exists mainly to keep the line officially open and avoid the legal process of closure, rather than to meet passenger demand. Low usage and historical service cuts led to its current near-invisible status, even though the line remains important for freight traffic and local campaigners continue to call for better services.
Find out more about “Ghost Station” HERE
Micropub Adventures 