To the west of Doncaster lies Cusworth Hall, Museum and Park. The Hall is one of only four listed Grade 1 buildings in the district.
Built by George Platt, a local builder and architect, for William Wrightson between 1740-45, it was refaced and extended by James Paine in 1749-53. The Hall and Park have been managed by the local authority since 1961. The grounds are open to the public.
East of the Hall is Shrubbery Walk - a band of ornamental trees including the Strawberry tree, Redwood and Ginkgo. Native trees to be found include Elder, Hazel, Yew and Holly.
The lakes are home to common wildfowl such as mallard, coot and moorhen. Black coot and moorhen can be easily separated, coot having a white bill and lobed feet, moorhen having a red bill and clawed feet. Toads and frogs are present here, as are water scorpions and diving beetles. Other wildlife in the Park includes tawny owls and up to six bat species. Daubenton's or water bats can be seen at dusk flying over the fish ponds looking for insects.
Cycling is a great way to get out into the countryside and keep fit. Using byways and bridleways you can discover the beauty surrounding Doncaster. Always take care whether cycling on roads or quiet lanes and show courtesy to other users. Remember, the condition of the trail will vary during the year. Cycle helmets and bright, reflective clothing should be worn. Be safe and be seen!
Ensure your bicycle is in good working condition before setting out. Check the tyres, brakes and lights and carry a puncture repair kit. Good luck and have fun!!
Cusworth Park was awarded a Green Flag in July 2008 in recognition of the standard of greenspace management and community involvement at the Park. Green Flag is a prestigious national award, coordinated and judged by the Civic Trust on behalf of central government and made in recognition of excellence in greenspace management. The achievement of a Green Flag Award for Cusworth Park, the first of Doncaster’s parks to receive this recognition, is a source of pride for the Council. It is an acknowledgement that excellent standards of care for the Park and the people who visit it have been attained. As this is an annual inspection, the process of applying for the Green Flag each year will ensure that appropriate levels of maintenance, community involvement and associated Green Flag criteria remain in Doncaster’s sights.
For further information about the Hall and Park please visit the following page:
Opening Times:
Mon - Fri 10.30am - 5pm
Sat & Sun 1pm - 5pm
The Hall Tearooms open daily 10am - 4pm
How to get there:
By car:
Follow the A638 over North Bridge for about one mile. Turn left immediately before A635 along Cusworth lane, signposted Cusworth Hall and Country Park. Follow Cusworth Lane for less than a mile, turning left into the car park just after the main gates.
By Bus:
Telephone Travel South Yorkshire on 01709 515151 for full details of all bus services.
If you require further information about countryside sites or activities please email us at countryside.interpretation@doncaster.gov.uk
