Things to Do in Mexborough

If you’re staying at Empress Rooms, you’ll find there’s plenty to do right on your doorstep. Mexborough is a proper town for filling a day without having to over-plan it: a strong mix of independent shops, great places to eat and drink, local fitness spaces, canal-side walks, and a lively evening scene when the sun goes down.

To make it easy, here’s a simple way to build a full day in Mexborough, brought to you by our friends at local tourism group, visitmexborough.uk.

Start the day with food and a proper brew

A good visit always starts with food, and Mexborough has plenty of cafés and independent spots to get you moving in the right direction. Whether you’re after breakfast, a quick coffee, or something more filling before a day out, the town centre makes it easy to grab a bite without trekking miles or booking weeks ahead.

If you’re planning a relaxed day, this is the best time to mooch the town while it’s calm, grab some supplies, and set yourself up for whatever you fancy next.

Mid-morning: explore the shops and the indoor market

Mexborough town centre is packed with a mix of familiar names and independents, plus a renovated indoor market that’s full of local retailers. You can browse everything from everyday essentials to gifts, groceries and little finds you won’t get in bigger retail parks.

It’s an easy way to spend an hour or two, especially if you enjoy a bit of window shopping and like picking up something a bit different.

Midday: gym session or quick recharge

If you like to stay active during a trip, Civic Hall Gym is a great shout. It’s a bright, modern space inside the historic Carnegie Building, offering a proper training environment with machines, free weights, cardio kit, a cross-fit rack and even a boxing area. Day passes are available too, so you can drop in for a workout without committing to anything long-term.

And if the gym isn’t your thing? No stress. Mexborough is compact enough that you can simply take a breather, grab lunch, and keep the day moving at your own pace.

Afternoon: stretch your legs along the canal

For a calmer part of the day, Mexborough’s canal-side paths are ideal for a stroll or gentle cycle. The town sits along the Sheffield & South Yorkshire Navigation, with towpaths that make a great route for fresh air and a slower pace away from the main streets.

Evening: food and a proper sit-down meal

When it’s time for dinner, Mexborough has a range of takeaways and sit-in options, but if you’re after a strong evening meal with a proper atmosphere, Goa Spice is a great pick. It’s a popular local favourite for Indian cuisine and a solid way to round off the day before drinks or entertainment.

Nightlife and live entertainment

Mexborough’s evening scene is stronger than you’d expect for a town of its size. For live shows, comedy, tribute nights and touring acts, the Empress Building is the centrepiece of local entertainment.

For a more modern, independent vibe, Gorilla Beer Hall hosts live music and events, including its own day festival, making it a great choice if you want something a bit more alternative.

There are also microbars and relaxed drinking spots across the town centre, plus Corner Pocket for anyone who fancies watching live sport or getting stuck into a game of snooker or darts.

Make a night of it

Whether you’re visiting for an event, stopping over for work, or just fancying a change of scenery, Mexborough is the kind of town where you can fill a full day without overthinking it — and still have plenty left to come back for.

If you’re staying at Empress Rooms, everything above is within easy reach, making it a simple, comfortable base for exploring the town.