Best Bar None scheme earns national recognition for safer socialising in Chesterfield
Chesterfield’s commitment to creating a safe and welcoming night-time economy has been recognised nationally after our town’s Best Bar None scheme won ‘Best Town Scheme’ at the National Best Bar None Awards 2026.
The award celebrates the positive impact the initiative has made in supporting safer socialising, raising standards across licensed venues, and strengthening partnerships between businesses, the council and Derbyshire Constabulary.
Launched in our town centre in 2024 by Chesterfield Borough Council, in partnership with Best Bar None, Chesterfield Pubwatch and Derbyshire Constabulary, the scheme aims to reduce alcohol-related crime and disorder while helping venues provide a safe environment for residents and visitors.
More than 20 venues across Chesterfield have now achieved Best Bar None accreditation, with further businesses expected to join the scheme later this year.
Alongside the accreditation programme, several initiatives have been introduced to further enhance safety in the town centre. These include a digital radio network enabling venues to share information quickly, and a Safe Space Hub operating during weekends to provide welfare and medical support.
Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said:
“Chesterfield is a safe and welcoming place to live, socialise and visit. Although alcohol-related issues can arise from time to time, as they do in communities nationwide, we are firmly committed to maintaining a secure and enjoyable environment for everyone. The Best Bar None scheme is a key part of that commitment.
“Our town is home to an excellent range of bars, clubs and restaurants, and this national award reflects the dedication they’ve all shown in achieving their Best Bar None accreditation and their commitment to setting the standards for safer socialising.”
Jane Randall, Chair of Chesterfield Pubwatch, added:
“Chesterfield boasts a fantastic range of pubs, restaurants, bars and clubs, making it a wonderful place to enjoy an evening out and we want to make sure everyone feels safe when out and about.
“We’re really pleased to see so many local businesses already achieving Best Bar None accreditation, and we look forward to even more venues joining them later this year. It is down to them that this national award was possible.”
The Chesterfield Best Bar None scheme helps build positive relationships between the licensed trade, police and local authorities, while encouraging best practice and high standards across the town’s hospitality sector.
To discover more places to eat, drink and experience in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/2026/05/50-food-and-drink-businesses-to-try-in-chesterfield/
