Sneak peek as new Doncaster city centre pub nears completion

Real ale enthusiasts have been given a sneak peek of a new Doncaster city centre pub as its near completion after a massive refit.

The Railway Alehouse is set to open its doors in the former Railway pub on West Street and is being run by the same people behind the nearby Draughtsman Alehouse at Doncaster railway station.

The venue held a soft launch at the weekend - with Scott Spencer from Micropub Adventures among those given an exclusive glimpse.

Here’s his verdict:

“Just a short walk from Doncaster station, the old Railway has been brought back to life by Russ and Luke from The Draughtsman Alehouse, and they’ve done a cracking job of giving the building a fresh start without losing the character that was already there.

“One of the things I liked most is how much care has gone into keeping and bringing back original features.

“The patterned tiled floor is original to the pub and was uncovered during the work, while the bar has been stripped back to reveal the timber underneath.

“Around the bottom of the bar there’s even a genuine piece of railway rail, which is such a good little detail and fits the setting perfectly.

“The railway theme runs through the pub without feeling overdone.

“There are old plans of the Railway Hotel from 1931 on display, old luggage by the fireplace, railway pictures and other small touches dotted around the rooms.

“It all feels like it belongs there rather than just being added for decoration.

“Inside, the pub has a lovely traditional feel.

“There are green walls, dark beams, fireplaces, parquet flooring in parts, leather chairs, bench seating and plenty of solid wooden tables.

“Different areas have their own character, so it feels like the sort of pub where you could happily settle in for a few hours rather than just calling in for one.

“The bar itself is a real focal point.

“There were four cask ales on for the soft opening alongside a big range of keg beers, with everything clearly listed on the large beer board next to the bar.

“Prices are shown for pints, halves and thirds, which is really handy with so much to choose from.

“The fridges were well stocked too, with a good mix of British craft, Belgian and continental bottles and cans.

“What I also liked is that The Railway Alehouse doesn’t feel like they’ve simply made a bigger version of The Draughtsman.

“The Draughtsman has its own very distinctive setting inside the station, while this feels much more like a traditional pub, with several different areas and more space to spread out.

“Having seen some of the before photos, the transformation is even more impressive. The pub has been stripped back, original features uncovered and restored, and the finished result feels warm, comfortable and full of character.

“There was a really good atmosphere at the soft opening too, with plenty of people taking a look around, chatting over a beer and enjoying the new space.

“Russ, Luke and the team gave everyone a really warm welcome, and you could tell how much work had gone into getting everything ready.

“The Railway Alehouse feels like a pub that respects its past while starting a new chapter, and I think it’s going to be a great addition to Doncaster.”

The bar was snapped up by Doncaster glazing king Adrian Welch earlier this year.

A spokesperson said: “After weeks of scraping, swearing, sanding, sweating, painting, swearing, building and making one hell of a mess, The Railway Alehouse finally looks like an alehouse to be proud of!

“There are still a few finishing touches to make, but we’re very nearly ready to welcome you through the doors. Official opening details coming VERY soon!”