Amazing pictures capture the night when The Beatles played in Doncaster

One of the world's most famous and iconic bands played a gig in Doncaster when they were in the early stages of their career.

Back then the band was in its early stages and had just two hit records out - Love Me Do had only climbed as high as number 17 and follow-up Please Please Me lodged at number two.

Mick Longworth worked at The Regent hotel where the band was staying the night before the concert.

Beatles on stage in Doncaster.placeholder image
Beatles on stage in Doncaster.

He said: “When I heard The Beatles were staying at our hotel, I couldn't believe it.

"I'd come home from school the night before and my mum just casually mentioned that we'd got a band in who were playing at The Gaumont that night.”

Mick, whose family runs the South Parade hotel, was so impressed that the Fab Four were in town that he cancelled his paper round for the following morning just so he could provide room service.

The Beatles backstage at The Gaumont with fans.placeholder image
The Beatles backstage at The Gaumont with fans.

“I took tea to Paul and Ringo while Dave served John and George.

"Later on, when they came down to breakfast, they gave me a signed picture card, one of my proudest possessions which I have kept to this day.

“I'm sure a lot of the other guests didn't realise who they were."

Just hours earlier, the group had come off stage at The Gaumont, sparking the first crazed scenes which later spawned a whole new word - Beatlemania.

The Gaumont back in the 1960's.placeholder image
The Gaumont back in the 1960's.

"It really is a piece of rock history,” he continued.

“How many hotel guest books in the world contain the signatures of The Beatles?

“Doncaster is a very important place in the history of the greatest group ever and we should all remember that.

A ticket stub from the show in the 1960's.placeholder image
A ticket stub from the show in the 1960's.

The Beatles played in Doncaster five times during their career including: The Co-op Ballroom - August 8, 1962, The Gaumont Theatre on February 5, March 22 and December 10, 1963, St James' Baths - February 20, 1963.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.

Related topics:
News you can trust since 1925
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice