Since 1985 Pubs of the Season awards have been made quarterly for both a Doncaster Pub of a season and a District Pub of the Season. Doncaster pubs are those within a 5 mile radius of the Mansion House. All others are classed as district pubs.

Members can nominate pubs (proposer and seconder required) at branch meetings and at quarterly meetings a vote is taken to see which pubs have the most votes. Votes can be cast at the meeting, by using forms on the website or by phone. Name and CAMRA membership number is required to validate the vote.