New hotels in Doncaster

Doncaster's identity runs through two industries: horse racing and railways. Doncaster Racecourse has staged the St Leger Stakes, the oldest of British racing's five Classics, since 1776, and the town's former Doncaster Works, long known simply as "the Plant", built some of the most famous steam locomotives in British railway history, including the Flying Scotsman. This guide currently tracks one project: Spark by Hilton Doncaster, announced in September 2026.

What to do in Doncaster

A short visit

Doncaster Racecourse hosts race meetings through the year, headlined by the St Leger Festival every September, and the Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery covers the town's railway and mining history for visitors outside race days. The Frenchgate shopping centre and the Market Hall, one of the country's oldest and largest indoor markets, sit in the town centre.

A longer stay

With more time, Doncaster's position on the East Coast Main Line makes York and Sheffield straightforward day trips by train, and the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, a few miles south of the town centre, is a popular add-on for families.

Where to stay in Doncaster

Spark by Hilton Doncaster is planned east of the town centre, overlooking Doncaster Racecourse: a location that puts it within walking distance of race meetings. It is one of ten Spark by Hilton hotels Hilton signed with AG Hotels Group in September 2026, bringing the brand's premium-economy format (free hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking) into England and Wales for the first time. No opening date has been confirmed for the individual property yet, beyond the deal's overall 2026-2028 window.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a hotel near Doncaster Racecourse?

Spark by Hilton Doncaster, announced in September 2026, is planned east of the town centre overlooking the racecourse, though it is not yet open.

What is Doncaster known for?

Horse racing (Doncaster Racecourse has run the St Leger Stakes, the oldest British Classic, since 1776) and railway engineering, as the historic home of the works that built the Flying Scotsman locomotive.

Is Doncaster a good base for York?

Yes: Doncaster sits on the East Coast Main Line, putting York within a short direct train ride.

What does Spark by Hilton offer?

Hilton's premium-economy format: free hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking, in a smaller, simpler room package than a full-service Hilton hotel.

Guide last updated September 2026.