The White Swan, Doncaster

An unfussy locals' pub by the ring road. It is very long and narrow but sadly has suffered from a pretty naff refurb, so the decor is totally forgettable. It is friendly enough though, and has just the one cask ale - Jolly Boys Barnsley Blonde, which proved to be a very quaffable session brew. Historically it is noted for having a ridiculously tall counter to the front bar, but it has since been rebuilt with steps up to the bar level.

Francie’s Irish Bar – The White Swan opens at 10am for a traditional Irish breakfast so as I staggered past with a hangover at 10:30 on a recent Saturday morning I decided to give it a go. To be honest I wasn’t that impressed as the produce was the cheapest of the cheap, but I suppose that you get what you pay for. The food is available until 18:00 Monday until Saturday and from 11:00 until 16:00 on Sundays. The pub interior is long and thin with a few tables and chairs by the entrance. Three steps lead up to the bar area where standard draught products can be purchased. I also noted the presence of three hand pumps, one of which was unused leaving the options as Doncaster Brewery’s Sand House Blonde Ale and Whispers Ale? I was too hung over for beer so I have to ashamedly admit that I had a coke and a cup of tea. Beyond the bar area to the rear of the pub is plenty more seating and a large plasma screen which was turned off. Live music was advertised for every weekend and free Wifi is available. There was some background music playing, but thankfully it was at a low volume. The toilets are located at the rear of the pub and there is a ramp for disabled access to said toilets and the seating at the rear. Out the front is some café style seating which looks onto the shopping area. I found the service to be friendly and the other two customers seemed friendly enough, but this isn’t a pub that I would go out of my way to visit again.

Now called Francie's Irish Bar although Francie's Irish Bar and White Swan signage was on display outside the pub. Long narrow pub serving 3 real ales and food. Irish themed memorabilia on the walls. Live music advertised.