Get Active in Doncaster

Ready to take up a new sporting hobby, get fit, or reach a goal? From archery and boxing to canoeing and Taekwondo, Doncaster is full of fitness opportunities and activities. Join a local team, sit at the sidelines and cheer on your neighbours, or take yourself on a solo run out of town and into the countryside. Whatever you’re looking for, this Yorkshire town has plenty of opportunities to get active. 

Outdoor activities

There are many green spaces to enjoy in this Yorkshire city. Take a scenic walk around the Potteric Carr nature reserve, play a round of golf at Town Moor Golf Club, or run in the Thorpe Mash nature reserve to spot some wildlife. 

‍Sports facilities

The Dome is a hotspot for sports activities. It is a great place to get active with a multi-pool swimming area, an ice rink, a cycling track, fitness studios, and a gym. Doncaster is also home to a family-friendly tennis court and a community squash club, 

‍Healthy eats

From Italian and Greek to Thai and independent delis, you won’t be short of places to grab a healthy bite. Grab a pre-workout coffee and sandwich at The Glass Strawberry, enjoy a fresh and filling salad at Jazz Cafe, or spend an evening eating tapas at Movida. Restaurants and cafes in the area offer many vegan and vegetarian options and gluten-free options.

Gyms

You’ll have your pick of gyms in this town. From independent boutiques to well-equipped chains such as The Gym Group, there are options to suit all budgets and preferences. There are also many personal trainers in the area, some with their own studio space like Accelerate Coaching and Fitness.

Where to watch sport

Catch a Doncaster Rovers game at Eco-Power Stadium, watch grassroots football at Queens Drive, or if rugby is more your thing, you’ll enjoy watching Doncaster Knights in action. Home to one of Britain's oldest racecourses for horse racing, this Yorkshire city hosts 37 race fixtures a year. Aside from watching local sports, you can also watch live Premier League football and Premiership rugby in bars such as Murphy’s Sports Bar.

Equipment hire

If you’re just passing through or want to try a hobby without too much of a commitment, you can hire bikes to explore. The Cycle Barn lends bikes for £18 a day, which includes a helmet and bike lock. On two wheels, you can head further afield into the stunning countryside out of town. 

Festivals

You’ll find many pop-up food festivals and markets in the town centre and annual music festivals such as Fake Festival, where you can dance to all the fantastic tribute bands. The Cazoo St. Leger Festival is a thrilling racing event for thoroughbred horses, offering four days of races showcasing the best flat-racing talent. If you are looking for running events to motivate you, there are plenty on the local calendar, including the Doncaster 10k, the Doncaster half marathon, and Race for Life.