One thing I know is that I have a soft spot for this interesting town. (town by UK standards but city by US standards) I shouldn’t but I do. It was important to me that we visit this town. While here, we stayed on the outskirts of town along a man made circle lake and later revisited Cusworth Hall, an old manner house in the area.

This whole area has really built up in the last twenty or so years since it was first being developed. It really was barren and empty, but for a cinema and a couple of shops. Now it has a full retail park and the lake’s vegetation has really developed. Before we visited some friends, we walked along the circular lake and were stunned to see so much wildlife thriving. The massive quantity of birds was something else. Swans, geese, mallard duck, coots and their many families of babies. The island was brimming with life and we even saw a black ladybug with red spots. If you need to stay in Doncaster and don’t want to be in the city center, this is a good location to stay and have a walk and talk.

After the kiddos were able to get some energy out, we went with friends to Cusworth Hall. A place I’ve visited several times. In particular the open field area near the playground for a pick up game of football/soccer. The family had a good time, and I was reminded just how much I prefer “passing the ball” practice over an actual game. One difference this time is that we explored more of the grounds than I ever remember doing so. It was a big deal for me to realize that the other side of the hall was open to the public. The kiddos quickly went to rolling down the hill on purpose. It’s a shame that none of them said “as you wish” but I digress. There was a simple food stall tucked into the side of the premises and had a quick snack. We were too late to eat at the cafe where I would usually get a jacket (baked) potato. Baby Willow had such a great time pretending to have a serious game with our friend of hide from Mom and have massive giggles along the way. I really enjoyed being back here in a different time in my life. It made me realize what a gem this location is for the area.

Our time in Donny was short, but full. No walks along the River Don or similar, but still a good time with friends to be sure. Bye for now.