Top things to do near Doncaster Airport
Take a walk on the wild side
With over 300 animals across 60 different species, Yorkshire Wildlife Park is only three miles (5 kilometres) away from DSA and easily accessible via taxi and bus. From displays of tiny but deadly bugs to the pioneering habitat for the study and conservation of polar bears, for which Yorkshire Wildlife Park has received global praise, there are events and tours to interest everybody. The park is open every day of the year except during the Christmas period, but may be forced to close by bad weather from time to time, so be sure to check the forecast before visiting.
Aviation through the ages
Whether you’re an aviation expert or a first-time flyer, South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum contains dozens of one-of-a-kind examples of engineering excellence, from carefully preserved aircraft flown in Britain’s first ever airshow in 1909 to the cutting-edge technology of today’s jet planes. Full of interactive exhibits and replica cockpits so you can pilot your favourite plane, the museum itself is a testament to the region’s rich aeronautical history, being housed on the former site of RAF Doncaster only 15 minutes’ drive from DSA.
The jewel in Doncaster’s crown
Built between 1740-1745, Cosworth Hall and Park are synonymous with Doncaster, visible from much of the town and providing a panoramic view of “Donnie” and beyond from its position on a hill to the west. The free-entry Grade I listed Hall and 60 acres (24.3 hectares) of historic landscaped parkland have recently undergone an extensive £7.5 million renovation. Now serving as an important example of Georgian architecture, a country house museum preserving 18th-century life and, at just a 20-minute, 12-mile (19-kilometre) drive away from Doncaster Sheffield Airport, it is a relaxing way to pass a sunny afternoon before you fly.
Take centre stage
Sheffield is only half an hour’s train ride from DSA and there is possibly nowhere more iconic in the city than its hallowed Crucible Theatre. Already renowned around the world for hosting a wide variety of classical and contemporary theatrical, comedy and musical performances, the Crucible is best known as the venue for the World Snooker Championship. The theatre’s modern design means that although the audience sits on three sides of the stage, no-one is more than 22 yards (20 metres) away from the action, allowing all 980 spectators a uniquely intimate relationship with the theatrical or sporting drama unfolding on stage. If you’re going to be at DSA for a while, check the Crucible Theatre listings to see what’s on.
The new Millennium
Opened in 2001 as part of Sheffield’s Heart of the City project, the striking concrete and glass Millennium Gallery has consistently ranked in the top 20 most-visited free attractions in the country. As well as permanently housing the Ruskin and Metalwork collections, the gallery also has two temporary exhibition spaces for major touring collections, making the Millennium Gallery a fantastic way to appreciate the timeless beauty of classical works of art alongside the latest offerings of some of the world’s best new artists. What’s more, the on-site shop and café mean you can pick up a memento of your visit or just take a minute to contemplate the exhibitions with a drink before you take off.
Botanical beauty
All 5,000 species of plant and 19 acres of the Sheffield Botanical Gardens are only two miles (3.2 kilometres) from Sheffield Rail Station and, therefore, only a 30-minute train ride from DSA. Opened in 1836, the gardens are well-known and highly-regarded for their carefully restored Grade II listed glass pavilions. Purchased by Sheffield Town Trust at the turn of the 20th century, entry has been free for over 100 years, so, if you’ve got a few hours to spare, why not take a stroll?
To arms!
The city of Leeds is only half an hour away from Doncaster Sheffield Airport on the train and the world famous Royal Armouries Museum is only an 18-minute walk from the station. Started in 1423, the Royal Armouries is one of the oldest museums in the world and, with a collection of over 75,000 items, it is also one of the world’s largest collections of arms and armour. Originally kept in the Tower of London, the vast majority of the artefacts are now on display and available to see for free, along with interactive displays and live re-enactments in the purpose-built facility in Leeds.
Retail details
Leeds city centre has always been a retail and nightlife hotspot, but the recent opening of two brand-new shopping centres, Trinity and Victoria Gate, mean that there’s guaranteed to be something to suit everyone, all within easy reach of Leeds Rail Station.
