Hats off to the Doncaster Races!
How would I describe Doncaster to a non-British tourist? Let’s put it this way – wherever you hail from, there’s a 99.5% chance that it’s somewhere much nicer. There are few places in the world which rival Doncaster’s mediocrity, but it doesn’t matter how much focus there is on soaring teen pregnancy and abundance in council housing, the Doncaster Races is a notable event for people from all walks of life.
Despite people’s gripes and grumbles on the town-but-wannabe-city’s demographic arrangement and the lack of attractions, or attractive people (just joking…..well, sort of), the famous Doncaster Races is to be highly praised. It’s not quite Ascot, but there are definitely well-earned points for trying.
A Taste of UK Horse Racing for Visitors
If you travel around the UK in the summer, the one UK event which I believe is a must is the horse racing. There are many races courses around the country and it will give you an inside look into the world of British gambling. Attend on Ladies’ Day and you will be engulfed by elegant hats and giant feathers.
Ascot will always reign as the most prestigious Ladies’ Day event in the country but I think Doncaster has pulled something pretty magical out of the bag this time. Doncaster St Leger takes place every single year in September, and this year, the hats have been more spectacular than ever.
Attend Doncaster Races: The North’s Biggest Hat Show
There are so many incredible places to visit outside of London and many people fall in love with the landscapes of the North. From the beautiful lakes of Cumbria and the rolling hills of the Yorkshire dales to the quaint seaside town of Whitby, there is so much to see.
So if you’re ever in the North, make sure you plan a day for the Doncaster Races. It’s truly the North’s most interesting hat show where bigger is better, and wackiness is worshipped. Unfortunately, Doncaster isn’t famous for its hotels, so here are my two, and probably only, recommendations:
- Mount Pleasant, Great North Road (A638), Doncaster - Tel +44 (0)1302 868696
- The Crown Hotel, High Street, Bawtry, Doncaster - Tel +44 (0)1302 710 341
It you’re shopping for a races hat, make sure you plan it weeks in advance. And remember: nothing is too big or too crazy. I promise.
We decided to recreate the French flag this year with our outfits. Très bon, ne conviendriez-vous pas?