Explore our heritage this Christmas
Delve into our charming historic sites this festive season as they come alive with twinkling lights, seasonal cheer, and stories from the past.
Drawn to our magical Christmas markets? Looking for historic halls decked in festive finery? Or simply seeking a memorable day out steeped in tradition? Our historic places offer a unique way to celebrate. Discover events, architecture, and experiences that blend the spirit of Christmas with centuries of our town’s rich history.
Chesterfield Speciality Markets
Chesterfield’s markets have been at the heart of our town for centuries, bringing together local traders and visitors. This festive season, we unveil a fresh new look as part of the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project, while still preserving the traditions that make them so special.
Stroll through our town centre and explore a vibrant mix of stalls, from local produce and artisan crafts to festive treats. Music lovers can dig through vinyl and memorabilia at the Chesterfield Record Fair, while the Vegan Market serves up delicious plant-based delights. The Artisan Market is ideal for finding unique, handcrafted gifts.
Don’t miss the special market day that kicks off the annual Christmas Lights Switch On – a magical celebration that brings the whole town together.
Barrow Hill roundhouse
A treat for history and railway enthusiasts, Barrow Hill Roundhouse is the last surviving operational railway roundhouse in Britain.
Usually closed during the winter, this year it opens its doors for a few festive days on the 13th and the 14th of December for the final museum open weekend and train running day of the year. Visitors can explore the site’s rich heritage, historic engines and tracks in an atmospheric setting.
Haddon Hall
Step back in time at Haddon Hall, one of England’s finest medieval manor houses. Dating back to the 12th century, Haddon Hall is renowned for its authentic historic charm and stunning interiors.
During the festive season, the hall is beautifully decorated, offering visitors a chance to experience a traditional Christmas in a historic setting. Highlights include the Mercatum Christmas Artisan Market, featuring over 180 talented makers offering the best in luxury gifts and seasonal delights.
Reproduced with the kind permission of Haddon Hall
The Crooked Spire
No festive trip is complete without a visit to the Crooked Spire of St Mary and All Saints Church – the largest church in Derbyshire and a true Chesterfield icon.
This Christmas, the church once again hosts the Festival of Christmas Trees, where schools, groups and local people decorate dozens of themed trees. New this year, an immersive light and sound show will fill the church with colour, music and festive magic.
Chatsworth House
Chatsworth House transforms into a winter wonderland, with its grand architecture, landscaped gardens, and festive decorations. Home to the Dukes of Devonshire for over 500 years, it’s a must-visit during the Christmas period.
This year’s theme, The Enchanted Garden, invites visitors to discover the quiet beauty and hidden magic of the nature in midwinter. Outside, the Christmas market features over 100 stalls, live music, seasonal food and festive drinks.
Courtesy of Chatsworth House Trust’ DPC Photography
Hardwick Hall
Built by Elizabethan heiress Bess of Hardwick, Hardwick Hall is known for its towering windows and ornate interiors.
This festive season, the hall comes alive with Hardwick Wintertide. The theme, The Tale of Misrule and the Holly King, brings a playful twist, with stories, performances, and decorations throughout. You can also enjoy hands-on workshops, from wreath-making to historic embroidery, or attend enjoy late-night openings with mulled wine and glowing gardens.
Bolsover Castle
Explore the romantic ruins of Bolsover Castle, standing proudly above the Derbyshire countryside.
This Christmas, the castle once again hosts the Bolsover Lantern Parade, one of the UK’s biggest and longest-running light processions. Organised by Junction Arts, the parade has lit up the town since 1994, with hundreds of handmade lanterns and thousands of spectators. The night before, experience Bright Winter Nights, an immersive light show inside the castle walls, celebrating 30 years of lantern-making through light, sound, and local stories.
Renishaw Hall
Set among beautiful gardens and woodland, Renishaw Hall is a hidden gem for heritage lovers. Dating back to the late 17th century, it has been home to the Sitwell family for generations.
During the festive season, the house and gardens are illuminated with magical lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for family visits or romantic, winter walks.
To discover more magical events and things to do this festive period, visit the Chesterfield Christmas website.
