The Draughtsman Alehouse — Restaurant in Doncaster

I’m a big fan of the concept of pubs on railway platforms as a whole, but there are levels and this is at the top tier. Firstly, the range is on a different level. Cask from the likes of Thornbridge and Milestone on my visit, and included a varied Keg range from Dutch brewery Jopen that I haven’t seen anywhere else before, with a superb range in the fridge. The setting and ambience is fantastic, with the architecture and fittings being sympathetic to the golden age of train travel. Service was efficient, friendly and knowledgeable. And then there is the value, which in these times is different than it was a few years ago… but it felt like being in a fabulous timewarp with cask prices basically unchanged, and keg prices considering the ABV and rarity very reasonable indeed. If you are passing through Donny station - and even if you’re not - it’s worth booking a ticket that delays you for a good 90 minutes at the very least (and they do take out in cans and plastic milk bottles if you haven’t got time). I can’t speak highly...

Like discovering a treasure trove in the most unlikely of places. My lingering dread of getting to Doncaster Railway station has now been totally transformed.

I couldn't quite see what was inside after arriving 35 mins early for my train. Thankfully I overcame my ingrained reluctance to enter any station based watering hole and was treated to a fantastic little place full of ambience, warmth and a great welcome, but that was just the start, a superb selection of simply delicious beers. I was truly gutted I hadn't arrived a day early. A proper pub, with proper beer, great decor a mixture of people, not a hint of a big company in sight and a thousand times better for it. I totally loved it.

A job very well done and a masterclass in what a pub should be.

Top top top marks.

Cheers from a very happy...

This is an absolute GEM of a hostelry. The enthusiasm of the staff (sorry didn't get your names) for the genius idea of 1/3 of a pint, with dinky glasses to match, is just one illustration of how perfect @TheDraughtsman on platform 3b is. Almost tempted not to tell you that it's Doncaster station but not fair to keep it to myself. If you're not yet planning to travel through Doncaster station on a rail journey north, then quite simply change your plans and drop in. The Draughstman knows how to make you feel welcome, serves great liquid refreshment and munchies, and is just hearty, happy and an oasis of conviviality... and all of that after just 1/3rd (but a second visit of...