Pub of the Week: The Hatfield Chace, Doncaster is a roadside pub from the dawn of the motoring age

To sum up Hatfield as having a firm place in English history is something of an understatement. Although there is evidence of early man roaming the area, it was first properly recorded as early as AD 730, when a vicious battle took place hereabouts, in which King Edwin of Northumbria and his troops were butchered by the forces of Penda, the King of Mercia.

By Phil Penfold

Published 1st Jun 2023, 06:00 BST

Updated 4th Jul 2023, 15:40 BST

This town on the edge of Doncaster is mentioned in the Domesday Book, and the lands (after the Norman conquest) became a popular hunting ground for various monarchs. Later Hatfield was in the forefront of land drainage schemes, and in the heart of the coal industry, so today there’s a blend of ancient and modern, and, echoing that old hunting theme, is the Chace.

It is set well back from the road, with a large car park to the front – this is a major thoroughfare, and the pub was constructed in the post-war days when motor travel for the masses took off.

Families flock to this venue as there’s a state-of-the-art climbing frame to the rear, which occupies only a tiny portion of the well-kept garden. Some of the tables are under the shelter of a wide veranda and the hanging baskets are something special. The management also like to mark special events when they can.

At the bar, there’s always a choice of good beers – Rudgate Stout, Timothy Taylor and Doombar were on offer the other day, and there’s also a Camra deal of 10 per cent deducted from your ale purchase. The wine options aren’t vast, but there is plenty of choice in the long drinks, spritzers and cocktails, and lager and cider fans will not suffer disappointment.

The (mainly comfort food) menu goes above and beyond, featuring everything from a Pie of the Day to sharing plates, steaks and half a roast duck. Vegetarians are not left out. Sunday lunches are very popular so it is wise to book in advance. Food is served until 8pm, every day of the week, and service begins at noon. The vibe is great, the value spot on.

Hatfield Chace, Doncaster Road, Hatfield, Doncaster DN 7 6AD. Tel: 01302 976698.