The Friends of the Doncaster Museums

23/10/2026

Our next Open Day is on Friday 30th October from 10.30 - 2.00. Have a guided tour, or look around on your own. From 11.00 onwards David Venables, the local Doncaster artist who did the marbling on the columns at the Mansion House, will be doing demonstrations of his marbling techniques. No need to book, free entry. We look forward to seeing you.

22/10/2026

Attended a Civic Trust talk by David Scrimgeour about,

Early Asylum Life – In the Words of Those Who Were There. A presentation about Stanley Royd Hospital in Wakefield.

Very interesting and changed my understanding of asylums and the treatment of patients during the 1800's
Nathan, Chair.

29/09/2026

Whilst engaging in my collecting of old Doncaster postcards I purchased a card, from Ebay, that came with a booklet about the Doncaster Mansion House. The hand written date on the front is June 13th 1969. The booklet was printed by R.L. Crowther Ltd 10 Sunny Bar Doncaster. A little piece of history for a few quid off Ebay.
Nathan, Chair.

29/09/2026

It was a pleasure to be at the unveiling and look forward to working with Doncaster's heritage organisations on future projects.
Nathan, Chair.

Doncaster Civic Trust marks anniversary with unveiling of historic portrait

26/09/2026

This morning I had the honour of attending the opening of an exhibition at the art gallery, celebrating 80 years of Doncaster's Civic Trust. It was also the unveiling of the recently restored portrait of William Sheardown which looks so much more vibrant and so many details that are now visible after years of dirt have been removed.
Nathan, Chair.

19/09/2026

A busy and interesting day in Doncaster. First a visit to Doncaster's Masonic Lodge and learning about the Masons and touring the lodge. I would like to thank the Freemasons for taking time informing me of the Masons history and activities in Doncaster. Next a visit to Doncaster Mansion House and a catch up with artist David Venables who carried out a significant amount of work restoring the interior of the Mansion House. Now at Doncaster Brewery for the art exhibition in the Dystopia room. All these events are part of Doncaster's Heritage Open Days.

17/09/2026

Attending a talk 'Opening the Doors, A brief History of Country House Visiting' by David Winpenny. Hosted by the Doncaster Civic Trust.

15/09/2026

Enjoying a tour of St. Catherine's House. One of the events organised as part of Doncaster's Heritage Week. I was aware of the house but this is the first time I've visited.

11/09/2026

An open day not to be missed.

Our next Open Day is on Saturday 19th September from 10.30 - 2.00. It's a special one for Heritage Open Days; the Civic Mayor will be present to welcome you into the Mayor's Parlour and David Venables, the local artist who did the marbling and gilding work at the Mansion House, will be there with a display of his work. All in addition to the guided tours, St Leger display and children's trail, with tea and coffee available. Can't wait to see you there!