Mexborough has more going on than most people realise. Independent places to eat and drink, riverside walks, green space, local events and a strong sense of community.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time, rediscovering the town, or just looking for something to do this weekend, this is where to start.
In years gone by, visitors to the town would need a taxi to get to any accommodation, but that's all changed for 2026. If you’re planning to spend the night in town, Mexborough now has its own boutique accommodation option right in the heart of the centre.
The Empress Suites occupies beautifully redesigned space within the iconic Empress Building, blending the character of a historic landmark with modern comfort and thoughtful design. Each suite comes with hotel-quality beds, private en-suite bathrooms and fast Wi-Fi, all accessed through a smooth self check-in process that lets guests arrive on their own terms.
Positioned close to shops, cafés, pubs and transport links, it’s a handy base for a weekend escape, business trip or a stay that ties in with local events. Some rooms are even named after local icons, adding a bit of story to your visit.
Mexborough punches above its weight when it comes to places to eat and drink. From long-standing pubs and relaxed microbars to independent cafés and restaurants, there’s a good mix of spots that locals use regularly and visitors tend to come back to.
You’ll find everything from craft beer and riverside drinks at Gorilla Beer Hall, to classic pub nights, live music and social clubs, alongside cafés and restaurants covering Indian, Goan, Thai and traditional favourites. Some places are ideal for a quick stop, others for settling in and making a night of it.
Whether you’re planning food, drinks, or both, it’s easy to build an evening without travelling far.
Mexborough has a strong live entertainment scene, with venues that regularly bring music, comedy and performance into the town. From large-scale tribute shows to emerging local acts, there’s a mix of established nights and new talent playing throughout the year.
The historic Empress Ballroom is a standout, hosting well-produced tribute acts, comedy nights and theatrical performances in one of the town’s most recognisable buildings. It’s a proper night-out venue, drawing audiences from across the area.
For something more grassroots, Gorilla Beer Hall has become a key part of the local music scene, known for showcasing up-and-coming bands, independent artists and its own outdoor festival-style events alongside craft beer and street food.
Together, these venues give Mexborough a year-round entertainment offering that feels active, varied and rooted in the town.
Phoenix Nights star and comedy legend Clinton Baptiste appears at Mexborough's Empress Ballroom.
Photograph credit: The Empress Building
THOR - Gods of Rock entertain the crowd at Gorilla Beer Hall.
Photograph credit: Gorilla Beer Hall
Mexborough offers a good mix of independent shops, familiar high-street names and local retailers that give the town centre its character. From everyday essentials to more specialist finds, it’s easy to get what you need without travelling far.
A real highlight is the refurbished Mexborough Indoor Market, now home to a varied range of traders selling everything from fresh food and household goods to clothing, gifts and specialist items. It’s become a focal point for local shopping and a place people genuinely enjoy browsing.
With investment through the government’s Levelling Up Fund, the town centre continues to improve, bringing new life to shops, spaces and independent businesses. Whether you’re picking up groceries, looking for furniture, or spending time exploring what’s on offer, shopping in Mexborough is only getting better.
Mexborough sits alongside the Sheffield & South Yorkshire Navigation, a historic waterway that now offers peaceful towpaths for walking, cycling and time outdoors on what's affectionately known as the Mexborough Riviera. Running directly through the town, it provides easy access to waterside routes that feel calm and open despite being close to the centre.
The paths are well used by locals for gentle strolls, longer walks and relaxed bike rides, passing locks, bridges and quieter stretches of greenery along the way. It’s also a popular spot for angling, with the navigation long associated with fishing as well as its industrial past.
Whether you’re heading out for fresh air, exercise or a slower-paced wander, the canal routes through Mexborough are one of the town’s most enjoyable and underrated features.
Mexborough is easy to reach by road, rail and public transport, making it a straightforward place to visit whether you’re coming for a day out or staying overnight.
Mexborough is a town that’s easy to get to, easy to explore and full of places that reward a closer look. From food, drink and live entertainment to waterside walks, shopping and local events, there’s plenty here to build a day out or a longer stay.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering what’s on your doorstep, Visit Mexborough is here to help you make the most of it.
