Doncaster – St Leger Meeting
Fans of horseracing should not miss the opening day of the 2009 Ladbrokes St. Leger Festival September 9th. First held in 1776, this is the oldest of the British Classic races and it is the last leg of the Triple Crown. The Doncaster Racecourse is located in the heart of England, and is steeped in racing history.
How To Get There
It is easy to reach the track by train, as it is just 2.5 miles from Doncaster Station on the main London-Edinburgh line and a shuttle bus is generally available to take race fans straight to the track. The new Robin Hood International Airport is less than seven miles away, and Doncaster is within easy reach of the Manchester, Leeds, and East Midlands airports as well due to its proximity to the motorways. The track will also accommodate helicopters, but you will need to call ahead for permission.
Where To Stay
Of course, you could eliminate race day traffic by staying within walking distance at the Grand St Leger Hotel next to the track. The hotel has been carefully restored to offer modern accommodations for traditional tastes. Meet horseracing fans at the Paddock bar, or dine in intimate surroundings at Carrington’s Restaurant. Just a few more paces away is the Earl of Doncaster Hotel, recently renovated with its original Art Deco features preserved. The stylish hotel offers free parking and several new executive rooms. Located just half a mile from both downtown and the racetrack, this is a convenient location to enjoy your stay in Doncaster.
Enjoy a rapidly growing area of Doncaster and stay in the midst of shops, restaurants, pubs, and nightlife at the Sleep Inn. This newly built hotel is tastefully decorated with spacious rooms equipped with cable TV and computer hook-ups at a great value. The Regent Hotel is a more traditional English hotel. Housed in a charming Victorian building, this family-run hotel overlooks a secluded Regency park and is still close to the city center. The attentive staff will ensure you have a peaceful stay.
Well worth the 4 mile drive is the Old Rectory Guest House. This 400 year-old Elizabethan house has been awarded 4 stars for it luxurious bed and breakfast service. Nestled on over an acre of landscaped gardens, you will enjoy an elegant, comfortable, and very English stay without giving up modern conveniences like WiFi. The staff will attend to all your needs, and even make you a packed lunch if you like. Enjoy the English hospitality of Doncaster, whatever your tastes might be.
