Discover the great outdoors in Chesterfield
Destination Chesterfield board member, Ann Fomukong-Boden explores Chesterfield’s outdoor spaces.
Earlier this year, a businesswoman shared something about her experience of Chesterfield that stuck with me… and now I want to share it with you.
Catherine had moved up from the south a few years ago and couldn’t believe how easily she’d swapped congestion for countryside, and how the sense of community wrapped around her like a welcome hug.
It reminded me that we don’t just live near to beauty here in Chesterfield — we live amongst it.
As summer rolls in, I’m grabbing every chance to get outside with my family. Here’s a fun fact for you to tell your friends… Chesterfield has more than 400 hectares of open space to explore – that’s around 500 football pitches!
We’ve made a habit of packing up a picnic, chasing dragonflies through Holmebrook Valley Park, and seeing who can spot the first duckling on the water. After all that exploring, we usually settle down at the café for a well-earned bun and a coffee — the kind of simple treat that tastes better with muddy shoes and rosy cheeks.
Queen’s Park, just a stone’s throw from town, bursts into life in the sun. Walkers pass through on their way into town, the familiar crack of a cricket bat occasionally cuts through the tranquillity. Families and friends stretch out on blankets, watching clouds shift. It’s not just green space – it’s breathing space.
One Sunday, I spotted someone paddleboarding along Chesterfield Canal. My two-year old daughter’s eyes lit up. “Look, look, try!” she shouted. I already envision myself in future years trying to keep up with her and falling off!
When I head out for an early walk, birdsong replaces my morning podcast. Nature wakes the town slowly — leaves rustle, and sunlight filters through a canopy of green. These moments don’t just reset my mood; they remind me why we chose to raise a family here.
This summer, we want to enjoy many car-free adventures – swapping wheels for walking boots or bikes. If you’re planning your own summer days out, Chesterfield is full of inspiration. Think paddling in a stream, chasing a Frisbee through open fields, or stumbling across a band playing in the park.
Living in Chesterfield means never needing to escape to find peace. The peace is already here — in the calmness of the canal, the buzz of bees, and the wind rushing through the trees.
So, step outside. Kick off your shoes. Let your shoulders drop. Summer’s waiting. And if you’re stuck for ideas? You’ll find plenty of inspiration — including dog-friendly and car-free days out — on our Summer in Chesterfield pages: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/
