Pub Of The Week: The Hare and Tortoise, Doncaster

ON the road away from Doncaster, and south to Bawtry, at the junction for Rossington, stands The Hare and Tortoise, a building that dates from the 1700s and has had a variety of functions and uses.
By The Newsroom
Published 17th Sep 2012, 01:00 BST

It was opened as a pub, and had one of the toll bars for the Great North Road next to it – you could pay your cash for the use of the roads, and then get over the shock of doling out the loot with a refreshing pint or three. It’s said that Dick Turpin once slept at The Hare and Tortoise, but if you count up every place that he is alleged to have rested overnight, he can hardly ever have occupied his own bed.

Before it turned back into a pub, The Hare was a private house, and had, over the years, fallen into disrepair. Today, it has been given a sympathetic restoration, with stone-flagged floors in several areas, and plenty of photographs and prints of local historical interest on the walls. There’s a splendid log fire for cooler or wetter days, and a spacious beer garden for dining al fresco – with very comfortable wicker chairs.

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The cask ales are ever-changing, and particularly well kept, but two favourites are Black Sheep Bitter, and Leeds Ale. The wine list isn’t long, but it is impressive, and fairly priced.

The Hare scores a bullseye with its food, and is a very popular venue for Sunday roasts, which come from a separate menu. You’ll find that it is wise not to chance getting a table at the weekend – book in advance. There are spotless loos (with more historic memorabilia) and a good secure car park. The Hare isn’t pretentious, but it is something of an oasis in the area.

Phil Penfold

Hare and Tortoise, 329 Bawtry Road, Doncaster DN4 7PB. 01302 867329, www.vintageinn.co.uk

THE VERDICT

Welcome****

Drinks selection*****

Atmosphere****

Food*****

Prices****

Related topics:DoncasterDick TurpinRossingtonFood