Memories of iconic city centre pub sought as Doncaster bar set to bounce back

The White Bear in Hall Gate is set to re-open next month – more than 20 years after its disappearance and replacement by Flares, which closed its doors for the last time on Easter Sunday.

Now the search is on to uncover memories of the pub in its heyday.

A spokesperson said: “We need you!

“As we bring The White Bear back to life, we’ve been looking into the history of this much-loved venue and the memories that once lived within these walls.

“Now we’d love your help.

“Do you have any old photographs, stories or memories of The White Bear from years gone by?

“Maybe you visited years ago, worked here, celebrated here or have family who did?

“We’d love to see anything you may have.

“Old pictures and memories like these are such a special part of the building’s story and we’d love to celebrate that as we prepare for this next chapter.

“Please feel free to send us your photos or share your memories. We can’t wait to take a walk down memory lane with you all. The White Bear roars again… and so do the memories.”

The new look White Bear will be run by local couple Lilly Anna and Simon who announced: “We’re incredibly excited to be bringing back The White Bear.

"This venue holds so many memories for so many people and that’s exactly what makes this such a special project for us.

"We can’t wait to breathe new life into it, recreate the atmosphere and memories that once lived there and give people something really exciting to look forward to again in Doncaster.

"We’re looking forward to opening the doors in May 2026 and welcoming people back. “

Flares bowed out with a four day Easter party and after the last revellers had left the premises, bosses posted a final farewell on social media.

A spokesperson said: “Thank you for partying with us, Doncaster.

“From Lazarus Court to Hall Gate, through every era, every refurb, every late one that turned into an even later one — you’ve been the reason Flares was what it was.

“Whether you remember the Reflex room upstairs, dancing on the pole, or you only just joined us for your first big night out… every single one of you has been part of this story.

“The lights, the layout, the colours — they all changed over the years.

“But the one thing that never did was you.

“You were the party.

“And that’s what made this place special.

“Whilst Flares may have closed its doors for the final time, the memories don’t go anywhere — and neither does the energy you brought every single weekend.

“Thank you for everything.

“End of an era.”