About Chesterfield

Young local artists create new exhibition

17th February 2026

‘Chesterfield Through Our Eyes’ was created by members of the Next Gen collective and is being displayed in the Pavements Shopping Centre until Sunday 14 March.

All the artists are aged between 16 and 30 and were invited to take part in an opportunity to gain experience responding to an artist brief to produce work for a public exhibition as part of the Animate Chesterfield programme.

Each of the artists was asked to think about what Chesterfield means to them, their connection to the town and what they think the future could hold for our town.

The young artists all produced a range of work, using different formats and techniques.

Emma White, one of the Next Gen participants, said

“It feels really good to take part in the exhibition, which has come together over the last year. I live in Chesterfield, and the town has inspired my artwork and creative expression. I’m looking forward to taking part in the Next Gen exhibition and showing different pieces of art that the group and I have created.”

The new exhibition display stands are funded through Animate Chesterfield – a programme of public art taking place throughout the regeneration projects in Chesterfield and Staveley.

After ‘Chesterfield Through Our Eyes’ finishes the boards will be used for an exhibition by Derbyshire Makes. In the future they will be available for community groups to host public exhibitions in Chesterfield.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said:

“We’re excited to be able to offer young local artists the opportunity to gain experience of working to a brief and exhibiting their work – what they have created for this exhibition showcases their fantastic talents and it’s well worth visiting.

“These new exhibition stands will also ensure that other members of the community will have the opportunity to showcase their work in the town centre. We’ll share more information about how local groups can book the exhibition stands on our website.”

Next Gen is a Junction Arts project that brings together young people aged 16–30 who are interested in pursuing a creative career. The project helps them develop their skills, knowledge, and confidence through a series of workshops and events led by professional artists.

Junction Arts Project Manager, Jemma Burton, said:

“Next Gen has been running for three years, and during that time we’ve had the pleasure of working with some incredibly talented young people who have grown in confidence through the expert guidance and support the programme offers.

“Our 2024/25 cohort had the added excitement of working on a live brief. The Animate Project helped to focus their creativity and gave them the fantastic opportunity to see their work showcased in a public exhibition. Experiences like this inspire young people to push themselves, see real possibilities in creative careers, and recognise Chesterfield as a town that champions young people, culture, and the arts.”

Animate Chesterfield is a programme being led by Chesterfield Borough Council and delivered by Beam, a leading cultural development organisation. It has included the appointment of an artist in residence to engage residents and visitors with Chesterfield town centre, Christmas window trails, careers insight for students at Chesterfield College, and a new town centre mural. The programme also includes a new heritage arts trail and sculpture in Staveley town centre.

Funding for the public art project was secured through planning agreements as part of the council’s percent for art scheme, which was part of the previous Local Plan (and now continues on a voluntary basis), and the funding must be used for the delivery of public art.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

Local firm supports Chesterfield railway heritage project

16th February 2026

Local legal firm Graysons Solicitors is continuing to support a major heritage initiative celebrating the town’s pivotal role in the birth of the modern railway, focusing on the legacy of George Stephenson, the famed ‘Father of Railways.’

George Stephenson played a key role in the development of modern rail transport and spent part of his early career working in the Chesterfield area, where he helped shape the engineering foundations that would later revolutionise railways across Britain. Stephenson is buried at Holy Trinity Church in Chesterfield, which now serves as the focal point for a major heritage initiative celebrating both his achievements and the town’s industrial past.

Led by Holy Trinity Church, the project has received a £240,600 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with additional support from local organisations including Chesterfield-based legal firm Graysons Solicitors.

The initiative marks the 200th anniversary of the first steam-powered passenger railway journey, made by Stephenson’s Locomotion No. 1 in 1825, and highlights our town’s industrial past, from rail to coal.

Work is well underway to transform Holy Trinity’s community rooms into a visitor facility, complemented by new interpretation displays, public events, school programmes, and volunteering opportunities, all designed to share Stephenson’s engineering achievements and the wider story of the town’s industrial heritage.

Peter Clark, managing partner at Graysons Solicitors, said:

“We’re delighted to be supporting a project that celebrates both Chesterfield’s rich heritage and one of the greatest engineering figures in British history. George Stephenson’s legacy continues to inspire, and we’re proud to help bring that story to life for future generations in the town we’ve called home for many years.”

The project also commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Miners’ Strike, connecting the town’s past industries with contemporary conversations around sustainability and the future of engineering.

To find out more, please visit: www.graysons.co.uk

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Heritage, Home, Visiting

Young talent key to tackling recruitment challenges, says Chesterfield Skills Conference

12th February 2026

Young people showed this week that they are ready to support business growth, as learners and apprentices from Chesterfield College delivered powerful, first-hand accounts at the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference. The event gave employers a compelling glimpse of strong local talent, at a time when six in ten East Midlands firms say they have difficulty finding suitable candidates.

Diane Beresford, Deputy Chief Executive at East Midlands Chamber and Chair of Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership, said:

“Our latest research shows that recruitment challenges remain one of the biggest barriers to growth for businesses across the region. Employers are telling us they urgently need people with the right skills, motivation and attitude. What we’ve seen here today in Chesterfield is a strong pipeline of young talent who are ready to step up and make a real difference.”

Held on Thursday, 12 February at Chesterfield College, the conference marked its 10th anniversary by championing the future workforce and demonstrating how young people can help address the skills shortages affecting businesses across the region.

Young people demonstrate talent in action

Students played central roles throughout the event, taking responsibility for photography, videography, presenting, catering and facilitating roundtable discussions – offering employers a live demonstration of their professionalism and skills.

Level two business studies students helped to choreograph two feature sessions. Level three media students produced the opening image montage, captured photography and video throughout the day and created a highlights reel. Catering students provided breakfast and coffee for delegates, and work-based learning students supported the roundtable discussions and contributed to the Nurturing Future Talent video featured during the programme.

These contributions highlighted a motivated generation ready to learn, grow and enter the workforce with confidence.

Interactive roundtable discussions brought students together with employers, educators and industry experts to explore workforce needs and skills and occupational shortages. Delegates highlighted ongoing demand for digital, engineering, business and construction talent – areas represented strongly by students at Chesterfield College.

This direct engagement helped employers better understand the expectations, motivations and capabilities of the next generation.

Insights on training, funding and new opportunities

Speakers including Matt Russell, Director of Strategy, Reform and Insight at the East Midlands Combined County Authority, Matt shared updates on the region’s integrated skills strategy and new opportunities for employers. These include support for apprentices under 25 and new short technical courses launching later in 2026. Matt said:

“Conversations at the conference showed just how much talent is emerging across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire. When we connect this talent with the right opportunities, support and training, we create a truly powerful skills ecosystem. Investing in young, ambitious people is key to strengthening our region’s talent pipeline and ensuring long-term economic growth. Together, we’ll shape a future where opportunity is accessible, and potential is realised.”

Investing in skills for economic growth

Julie Richards, Principal of Chesterfield College, spoke proudly about the student contribution. Julie said:

“Our students are nothing short of exceptional. They didn’t just participate in the conference – they led, they contributed and they showed the region exactly what our town is capable of.

“I’m incredibly proud our what our young people achieved today, and grateful to the employers who took the time to listen, engage and encourage them. When education, industry and local partners come together, Chesterfield’s young people truly shine.”

During the conference, delegates took a tour of the new Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences Centre at Chesterfield College, home to cutting-edge facilities designed to train the next generation of engineers, technicians and life sciences professionals.

The innovative learning space at Chesterfield College is one of several that are shaping the town’s future growth, said Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield. Councillor Gilby said:

“As well as the new Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences Centre, we have the rail innovation and training centre (DRIIVe) at Barrow Hill, the Construction Skills Hub at Mastin Moor, and the fantastic work being done by the University of Derby to bolster our provision in nursing. Together, these centres are giving our residents clear pathways into high-quality careers right here in the town.

“But it’s not just about buildings – our future workforce are at the centre of all decisions, and partners come together through the Chesterfield Skills Partnership Board to do everything we can to help our young people step confidently into work. This could be advice about apprenticeships and traineeships or opportunities to meet our employers – the conference being just one of many chances to do this. We are confident that Chesterfield has the talent required for growth and urge businesses to get in touch and make the most of the recruitment and skills advice and funding available.”

Chesterfield businesses of all sizes can access skills advice by emailing: info@chesterfield.co.uk or visiting www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/

The Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership was delivered by the Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Employability & Skills Conference in association with Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Development, Home, Skills

50 food and drink dining experiences to try in Chesterfield

10th February 2026

Ever struggle to decide where to eat and drink? From street food to fine dining, and cocktail bars to cosy cafés – there’s a place for every occasion in Chesterfield.

Whether you’re after a family-friendly brunch or a stylish evening out, explore our list of 50 top dining experiences.

Many of the featured venues offer gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options – just check the menu or contact the venue directly before your visit.

Jump to a section:

Real ale pubs
Cocktails and wine
Dining with a twist
Pizza and pasta
Brilliant brunch spots
Afternoon tea
Coffee and catch-ups
Unique café experiences
Sunday lunch

Looking for more ideas? Explore more eating out inspiration in Chesterfield here.

Enjoyed a great meal or outstanding service? Share your experience on social media and tag #LoveChesterfield – we love to hear from you!

Bottoms up! Real ale pubs

Whether you’re a traditionalist or curious to try something new, our real ale pubs serve plenty of local charm alongside award-winning pints.

1. Chesterfield Arms – A warm welcome, heritage vibes and a rotating selection of real ales.

2. The Rose and Crown Brampton – Think classic pub with a twist. Handpicked ales and small-batch gin.

3. Ye Royal Oak – Chesterfield’s oldest pub, tucked in the Shambles. Why not try a Pieminister pie?

4. Tramway Tavern – Cosy and known for great conversation over quality cask ales.

5. The Neptune Beer Emporium – A unique pub and music venue with Belgian, craft and cask beers.

6. The Market Pub – In the heart of town, enjoy real ale and favourite drinks. Watch for our tasting events!

Cheers to cocktails and wine

Raise a glass in some of our most popular spots. Whether you fancy a classic cocktail or a refreshing alcohol-free twist, our friendly bartenders are ready to serve up something special. With many venues accredited through the Best Bar None scheme, you can celebrate safely and in style.

7. Dirty Habit – Known for its chill music and cheese boards, perfect for catching up with friends.

8. Barca Bar at Casa Hotel – A vibrant spot blending British flavours with a Spanish twist. Enjoy tasty tapas and be sure to check out their Bottomless Brunch.

9. Junction Bar – A popular hub on Chatsworth Road for relaxed drinks and lively evenings.

10. Chandlers Bar – Unique vintage interiors with expertly mixed cocktails and quality wines.

11. Einstein’s – Lively and always flowing with German beer favourites. You can even challenge friends to a game of table tennis.

12. The Brampton Social Club – A buzzing venue offering classic and creative drinks. If you’re peckish, snack on a stone-baked pizza.

13. Armisteads – Cosy, stylish, and a firm favourite for cocktails and craft brews.

Want to try something new? Dining with a twist

Fancy something a bit different? These venues put a fun, imaginative spin on the usual dining experience.

14. Bagel Loft – Try something new with hand-rolled bagels and watch yours fly down the helter-skelter chute!

15. The Batch House – Street food meets social dining: gyros, stone-baked pizza, sizzling Indian dishes and puppuccinos for the dog.

16. Afats Grill – Authentic Turkish flavours inspired by southeast Anatolia.

17. Saints Bar – Kitchen offers a selection of high-quality food such as artisan pizzas, cheese boards and tapas-style dishes.

18. Odyssey Restaurant – Transport your tastebuds to the Mediterranean with bold Greek dishes.

19. Tyzacks – Stanedge Golf Club – Welcoming and family-friendly, you don’t need to be a golfer to enjoy great food.

20. Darwin and Bear – Quirky, colourful, and fun with retro video games built into the booths.

21. The Old Post – Dine in a beautifully restored building with premium flair. This is the third oldest buildings in the town centre, which used to be a post office (hence the name).

For pizza and pasta lovers

Craving carbs? Whether you love thin crust, creamy sauces or Mediterranean flair, these spots are guaranteed to satisfy.

22. Sicily Restaurant – Informal and inviting. Like a laid-back holiday evening on Sheffield Road.

23. La Dolce Vita Lambarelli’s – An authentic Italian space offering fresh food, home made pizza, coffee and cocktails. You could even sample an Italian brunch or lunch.

24. Lombardis – Beautifully decorated and delicious food to make you feel like you’re on holiday in Italy.

25. Filippelli’s Bistro & Bar – A modern mix of Italian-inspired dishes served all day.

Brilliant brunch spots

Lazy mornings deserve delicious food and our brunch scene is buzzing with flavour. Watch our reel with local food influencers, Meats and Cheats, to see top brunch ideas come to life.

26. Ninety Four – A sleek café-bar on Chatsworth Road serving up brunch staples like eggs benedict and indulgent pancake stacks.

27. Koo – A brunch and coffee spot with a bright, stylish vibe.

28. The Brew Time Cafe & Bar – Brunch goals! Tuck into French toast, American pancakes and more.

29. Sorbo Lounge – Relaxed, colourful, and family-friendly (dogs welcome too!). The Sunshine Brunch brings a fresh spin to all-day brunch favourites.

30. Host Coffee – This stylish spot on Chatsworth Road offers artisan coffee and beautifully plated brunch classics like avocado and bacon on toast.

31. Bottle & Thyme – This cosy venue serves fresh, seasonal dishes with a creative twist. Don’t miss the signature Turkish Eggs.

Scones and cakes – afternoon tea for two

Scones, sandwiches, and cakes. Whether you go jam-first or cream-first, these venues know how to do it right.

32. The Café at Libby’s – Friendly service and irresistible cakes make this a perfect treat.

33. Dronfield Hall Barn – History, gardens, and gorgeous homemade treats in one scenic spot.

34. Birdcage – Dog-friendly, community-minded, and always offering something sweet.

35. Pomegranate Café at Northern Tea Merchants – A tea-lover’s paradise with traditional charm.

Coffee and catch up with friends

Sometimes, all you need is a warm drink, good cake, and better company. Even better after a day of shopping.

36. Vintage Tea Rooms – Quirky, cosy and perfect for a good natter over a slice of something sweet.

37. Coffee#1– Handcrafted drinks, comfortable seating, and welcoming service.

38. Figaro Wingerworth – Plant-based dining offering vegetarian and vegan dishes in a stylish, friendly space.

39. No 10 Tea Rooms – Relaxed, family-run and full of personality.

40. Soresby Street Café – Comfort food meets milkshake heaven. Come hungry!

Unique café experiences for food and drink

Not your average coffee stop. These local favourites bring creativity and community to the table.

41. Qoozies – Colourful, playful and packed with smoothie bowls, burgers and dessert challenges.

42. The Savvy Baker – More than brownies: think chocolate-inspired drinks, treats, and more.

43. Board & Bean – Chesterfield’s first board game café. Grab a snack, choose a game, and make an afternoon of it.

44. CAWA Coffee – Stylish, artisan and filled with the aroma of fresh-baked pastries and house-roasted coffee.

45. No67 Coffee House – A charming hidden gem with a Tudor upstairs and a walled courtyard oasis.

Special Sunday lunch

Sundays are made for indulgence, and what better way to celebrate the weekend than with a hearty, lovingly prepared Sunday lunch at one of our welcoming pubs and restaurants?

46. The Tickled Trout – Modern countryside dining meets classic charm at this award-winning gastro pub and restaurant.

47. The Peak Edge Hotel – Red Lion Pub & Restaurant – A Peak District gem where fresh, locally sourced produce from the 360-acre Walton Lodge Farm Estate takes centre stage.

48. Ringwood Hall Hotel and Spa- The Coach House – Overlooking elegant gardens, with homegrown produce from the Victorian kitchen gardens.

49. Galleon Steak House – Tender beef brisket, succulent pork loin, and traditional roast turkey; meat lovers will feel right at home.

50. The Bulls Head Holymoorside – Listed in the Michelin Guide for a reason. Local, foraged and grown ingredients shine here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Christmas, Leisure, Visiting

Government launches consultation on the future of local government in Derbyshire

9th February 2026

The Government has opened a consultation on how council services could be delivered to communities across Derbyshire in the future.

This seven-week statutory consultation is the next step in the Government’s Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) process. It will be the biggest change to local councils in over fifty years.

Launched on 5 February, the consultation asks for feedback on five proposals for Derbyshire, submitted to the Government in November last year:

Seven of Derbyshire’s eight district and borough councils, along with Derby City Council, put forward a plan called “One Derbyshire, Two Councils”. This plan would create two new unitary councils covering the county. Within this plan, there are four options that differ based on where the boundary between the northern and southern councils would be drawn.
Derbyshire County Council submitted a separate proposal to create a single unitary council covering the entire county.

The statutory consultation is a formal, legally required step the Government must complete before deciding which proposal to approve.

This consultation differs from the two local LGR consultations conducted last summer, one by Derbyshire County Council and the other by the districts, boroughs, and Derby City Council, which helped shape the proposals.

Now, Derbyshire residents, businesses, and organisations are invited to share their views on the final proposals. The consultation closes on 26 March. Councils are also invited to submit their own formal responses.

The Government will use the feedback to understand public and organisational views on each proposal before ministers make a final decision in the summer.

In a joint statement, the Leaders of Amber Valley, Bolsover, Chesterfield, Derby City, Erewash, High Peak, North East Derbyshire and South Derbyshire councils, said:

“All councils in Derbyshire were asked to respond to the Government’s call to simplify and transform the way council services are delivered to local people in the future.

“The needs of our communities – now and in the future – are at the heart of our plan to create two new unitary councils covering all of Derbyshire, and its development was shaped by technical evidence and thousands of contributions from local residents and organisations.

“This next stage allows Government to gather further views before reaching a decision on which proposal to implement.

“Our shared priority remains ensuring that any future arrangements deliver effective, sustainable and responsive services for the people of Derbyshire, and we would encourage residents, businesses and organisations to take part in the consultation.”

People can find out more about the proposals and share their views via the Government’s website: GOV.UK

The results of the consultation will help inform the Government’s decision on how local government should be structured in the county of Derbyshire in the future. A final decision is expected in mid-2026.

To keep up to date with what’s happening in and around Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/news

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home

Local licensed venues invited to sign up to Best Bar None scheme

5th February 2026

The council urges local licensed venues to join the Best Bar None scheme to boost safety and vibrancy in the day and night-time economy.

All pubs, bars, clubs, and other licensed venues can register for 2026 accreditation. For the first time, restaurants can also take part, giving more venues the opportunity to champion higher standards and safer socialising.

The Home Office backs Best Bar None, which helps customers spot well-run pubs, bars, clubs, and other alcohol-serving businesses.

Launched in Chesterfield town centre in 2024 by the council in partnership with Best Bar None, Chesterfield Pubwatch, and Derbyshire Constabulary, the scheme aims to reduce alcohol-related crime and ensure safer socialising.

It also builds positive relationships between the licensed trade, police, and local authorities, encourages best practice, and improves venue management.

Since its launch, Chesterfield Borough Council has expanded the scheme to include all licensed premises, including restaurants, across the borough. Over 20 venues currently hold Best Bar None accreditation, and the council hopes this number will grow as more premises commit to safe socialising.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said:

“Chesterfield is a very safe place to live, socialise and visit, and while alcohol-related crime and disorder can occasionally arise – as it does in towns and cities across the country – we are committed to ensuring that Chesterfield remains safe, welcoming and fun for everyone, and the Best Bar None scheme helps us to achieve this.

“We’re lucky to have so many great bars, clubs and restaurants across the town and we would love to see as many of them as possible become accredited venues and work together to help keep Chesterfield’s day and night-time economy thriving.

“If you own a licensed premises, please do get in touch so we can tell you more about the benefits of becoming an accredited venue, and help raise the bar on standards for your customers and staff.”

More information is available at: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/best-bar-none

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Leisure

Council reveals exciting programme of events for 2026

4th February 2026

Chesterfield Borough Council has announced its programme of events for 2026, bringing a mix of returning favourites and new activities to the town.

The programme aims to encourage more people to visit the town centre and enjoy unique experiences as residents, families and visitors.

Building on the success of events held in 2025, the year ahead will see the return of several popular events alongside a number of new additions to the calendar:

Chesterfield Glow Up, a new event, will take place on Friday, 27 and Saturday, 28 March. Delivered by Chesterfield Borough Council as part of the Animate Chesterfield programme, the event will feature a light show projected onto the Market Hall by international projection artists Illuminos. There will also be funfair rides, free UV face painting, live entertainment and a night market.

The popular 1940s Market returns on Thursday, 28 May and is expected to draw in large crowds once again. The market will also be taking part in the national Love Your Local Market campaign.

The Chesterfield International Market is to be held from 19 to 21 June. The market brings a range of international street food and traders to our town centre.
Saturday, 15 August, will see a new event celebrating the emergency services.
The Christmas Lights Switch On will take place on Sunday, 22 November, marking the start of the festive season in Chesterfield.

The council will host more events in summer 2026, including a new food festival with details to be shared on the website and social media as they are confirmed.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said:

“With the improvements across the town centre set to be completed this year, we’re excited to unveil our events programme and make great use of the new spaces to attract visitors and provide free entertainment.

“Whilst this is just a selection of everything that will be happening this year, we wanted to make sure everyone had the opportunity to start planning for the year ahead. We’ll be announcing more events and activities in the spring.

“Events like these are a great way of attracting new visitors to support town centre businesses and market traders – I hope that you can join us for these fantastic events.”

These events are part of a wider range of cultural activity happening across chesterfield discover what’s on in chesterfield: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Easter, Half term, Home, Leisure, Stay, Summer, Visiting

East Midlands at centre of major new tourism campaign

30th January 2026

Open, welcoming and ‘At the Centre of it All’ – that is the message our town is sharing as part of a new regional campaign showcasing the East Midlands.

The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) has launched a new marketing campaign, ‘At the Centre of it All’, celebrating the strengths of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire and positioning the region at the heart of the country.

For Chesterfield, the campaign reinforces the town’s unique appeal: a place that offers space to breathe, time to connect and the balance many people are now actively seeking. With a strong local economy, easy access to major cities and the Peak District on our doorstep, Chesterfield combines opportunity with quality of life.

The campaign is designed to showcase the very best of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, encouraging visitors, businesses and residents from London, the South East and across the UK to explore the region’s culture, sport, landscapes, and hospitality.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said:

“The visitor economy is one of my key priorities, because every place in the East Midlands has something to share with the world – and because we are at the Centre of it All, we are just a short journey away for most people in the UK.”

“This campaign is about working together to proudly showcase everything that makes the East Midlands special. From vibrant cities to wide-open landscapes, world-class sport to rich culture and warm hospitality, our region has so much to offer.”

Delivered in partnership with tourism organisations Visit Nottinghamshire, Visit Derby and Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, the campaign brings their work together under one clear message: the East Midlands is open, welcoming, and full of unforgettable experiences.

Launching this week, the double-headed campaign will promote the region as an easily accessible short-break destination in a bid to drive overnight stays, encourage visitors to explore more deeply and boost the regional visitor economy, supporting the region’s £1 billion tourism growth ambitions.

The ‘At the Centre of it All’ campaign will target London and the South East, positioning the Peak District and Derbyshire as a relaxing getaway, with Derby less than two hours from the capital by train.

‘At the Centre of the Action’ will highlight Nottinghamshire’s colour, culture and world-class sport, encouraging eventgoers and culture seekers living up to two hours away to stay longer, return more often and discover more of the county’s unique offer.

Mayor Claire said:

“We want visitors from London and beyond to discover the experiences, people and places that make Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire such unique destinations.”

The Peak District tourism already contributes £2.9bn to the local economy and supports almost 30,000 jobs, yet significant untapped potential remains.

Jo Dilley, Visit Peak District & Derbyshire managing director, said: “The launch of ‘Centre of it All’ is a major step forward for the Peak District and Derbyshire and the wider East Midlands visitor economy. Tourism is a powerful driver of growth, and this campaign shows the impact of working collaboratively to raise the region’s profile.

“With the support of the EMCCA, and in partnership with Visit Nottinghamshire and Visit Derby, we’ve created a campaign that showcases the East Midlands as an accessible and compelling destination for overnight breaks.

“With London just a short journey away, ‘Centre of it All’ encourages visitors to stay longer, explore more and spend locally – supporting tourism businesses and delivering sustainable growth for communities across the region.”

To discover places to visit and stay in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Heritage, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

Why homebuyers are choosing Chesterfield for value, connectivity, and community

20th January 2026

A new study highlights that people are deciding to settle within Chesterfield, taking advantage of the convenience of commuting to Sheffield while benefiting from the area’s strengths as a place to live.

The study by sellhousefast.uk assessed commuter towns for England’s five biggest cities (London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, and Sheffield), and ranked them on livability and commuting factors.

Chesterfield came in at the top for commuting to Sheffield, and fourth overall, with an approximate commute time of 40.5 minutes by car and 12 minutes by train, and an average house price of £212,576, as well as, 64% of schools rated good/outstanding within five miles. The study also calculated the crime risk score of 626/1,000 giving Chesterfield an overall score of 6.29.

Neighbouring town Dronfield came in fifth with a commute to Sheffield of 29 minutes by car and 10 minutes by train, with average house prices of £273,863

Bolsover, just 15 minutes away from our town centre, placed seventh in Up-and-coming areas with the most significant house price increases, helping buyers identify up-and-coming areas before prices peak, with an 86.1% increase in house prices since 2015.

Destination Chesterfield Board Member, Ryan Wilkes said:

“What really sets Chesterfield apart is the quality of life it offers. Residents benefit from excellent connectivity to major cities while enjoying lower housing costs, good schools, and a strong sense of community. It’s no surprise that more people are recognising Chesterfield as a place to build a long-term future.”

Chesterfield continues to be recognised as a great place to live, once again ranked the happiest place to live in the East Midlands by Rightmove’s 2025 Happy at Home survey.

Also in 2025, Chesterfield was named one of the happiest places to live by The Guardian, as well as being recognised as one of the greenest towns in the UK, with over 95% of homes having access to private or nearby outdoor space, including Queens Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, and the Chesterfield Canal. Thanks to its excellent schools, strong community spirit, and access to nature, it also consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

The town is seeing new housing developments and regeneration projects, including the Staveley Corridor, Chesterfield Waterside, and Spire Neighbourhood, which will bring more new homes.

Find out more about living in Chesterfield at: www.chesterfield.co.uk/living

Posted in About Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

Locals celebrate Queen’s Park Sports Centre tenth birthday

16th January 2026

Over 900 of our local residents and visitors attended Queen’s Park Sports Centre’s open day on January 11th to celebrate the facility’s tenth birthday.

Over the last ten years, the sports centre has grown to be a community hub for many different groups, organisations and individuals to use, learn and enjoy.

As part of the open day, the centre encouraged local people to come along and join them to take part in a range of free or low-cost activities that were suitable for everyone.

The open day included a range of activities, from fitness classes and swimming lessons to opportunities to explore the gym facilities, participate in racket sports, try netball, experience pre-school gymnastics, and participate in an on-site treasure hunt where participants could find prizes hidden around the centre.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said:

“Marking 10 years of Queen’s Park Sports Centre is fantastic. The centre is an inclusive space that provides activities that bring communities together, from activities for children to specific sessions such as Outswimming Cancer. There is something on offer there for everyone.

“Getting active has so many benefits both physically and mentally, so I encourage anyone who hasn’t visited the centre to find out how they could join what has become a community.”

People can find out more about Queen’s Park Sports Centre here: www.chesterfield.gov.uk and learn about New Year membership offers by following this link: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure

Progression made on Chesterfield Canal as part of Staveley Town Deal

15th January 2026

Significant progress continues on the restoration of the Chesterfield Canal at Staveley, one of the projects within the Staveley Town Deal.

The restoration will reconnect key sections, protect historic features, and create new opportunities for leisure, tourism, and economic growth. The Chesterfield Canal Trust is leading the main phase of restoration works, supported by £5.8 million of the Staveley Town Deal.

Contractor O’Brien Construction Ltd is delivering the main phase of works on the Chesterfield Canal, which includes:

- Construction of the new Keith Ayling Lock
- Installation of a water pumping system designed to allow fish and eel passage,
- Restoration of Bellhouse Basin, including its historic narrows,
- Reinstatement of the canal through the Hartington Railway Bridge abutments
- Restoration of the canal towpath through the Doe Lea Valley and along the former Norbriggs Arm to the A619 at Mastin Moor
- Upgrading footpaths between Bent Lane and Bellhouse Lane
- Installation of new benches, interpretation panels and extensive landscaping

By restoring navigability and improving surrounding infrastructure, the project will help to encourage an increase in visitor numbers to Staveley, supporting local businesses and tourism as well as enhancing public spaces, including footpaths, bridges and green areas, having an overall impact on improving the quality of life for residents through better access, recreation and employment opportunities.

Over the past months, visible progress has been made on the site. Towards the end of November, the lock excavation was completed, followed by extensive rebar installation and concrete pours throughout early December.

By mid-December, the base slab for the Keith Ayling Lock had been completed, clearly showing how the restored basin will be raised to its final level. Historic stonework from Bellhouse Basin was carefully removed, labelled and stored, ready to be reinstated as part of the restoration.

Meanwhile, Severn Trent Water has been working alongside the project to lower a major 500mm water main beneath the restored canal at Bellhouse Basin, with this element expected to be completed by the end of the month.

The current completion date for the main works is mid-July, bringing Staveley another step closer to seeing the Chesterfield Canal fully restored through this key section.

The Staveley canal restoration is a powerful example of how the Staveley Town Deal is investing in heritage, infrastructure and community wellbeing, creating a destination that will support economic growth while celebrating the area’s industrial past.

For more information and to keep up to date with developments in and around our town, please visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/staveley/

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