Celebrate Chesterfield

Record visitor numbers boost Chesterfield economy

New figures showing a record number of visitors to Chesterfield are providing a £175 million boost to the borough’s economy were announced this morning at the Chesterfield Investment Summit.

The industry figures show that in 2017, Chesterfield received 3.7 million visitors, an increase of 5.1 per cent on 2016. This compares with an average 1.3 per cent increase across the rest of Derbyshire.

The year also saw tourism contribute £175.21 million to the Chesterfield economy, a 6.9 per cent increase on 2016.

As a result, the visitor economy sector also supported 2,165 full-time equivalent jobs in Chesterfield, an increase of 4.8 per cent on 2016. This compares with a 2.5 per cent increase across Derbyshire.

Huw Bowen, Chief Executive of Chesterfield Borough Council said: “With the Peak District National Park on our doorstep, Chesterfield has long been a convenient place to visit but the fact we see so many people returning to visit us, shows we have a lot to offer in our own right.

“With attractions such as the world-famous Crooked Spire, the traditional open-air market, two theatres offering major shows and plays, Chesterfield Museum, Revolution House and Barrow Hill Roundhouse, it’s no wonder people choose to visit Chesterfield.

“This is great news for our local economy and we will continue to organise regular events to encourage people to visit the borough and, while they are here, take advantage of the many shops, cafés, restaurants and bars we have on offer here.

“I think it is easy to take what you have on your doorstep for granted but when I talk to visitors they are always very complimentary about Chesterfield and what it has to offer. These latest figures back that up and show how important tourism is to our economy.”

Chesterfield Borough Council organises regular events to attract visitors to the borough, such as the Chesterfield Festival of Cricket which brings in cricket fans from across the country. The next event is the 1940s market which takes place in the traditional open-air market place on Thursday 1 November.

Find out more about visiting Chesterfield and events

Crooked Spire in Spring - Visit Chesterfield

Crooked Spire in Spring

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Visit Peak District website in Top 10 for UK Destinations

New data released by official tourist board Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire reveals for the past six months, the tourist board’s website www.visitpeakdistrict.com has consistently ranked in the top ten most visited sites for around 150 UK destinations, alongside such places as Manchester, Liverpool, Brighton, Bristol, Dorset and the Isle of Wight.

More than a million user sessions were logged between 20 February and 19 August, a rise of more than 37 per cent on the same period in 2017.

The site now also outranks Trip Advisor when people enter the keywords Accommodation in the Peak District and Things to Do in the Peak District on Google.

In addition, the tourist board’s social media following on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram has increased by 22 per cent in the past year from just under 75,000 in July 2017 to more than 92,000.

It was recently revealed that tourism’s value to the Peak District and Derbyshire economy rose to £2.15 billion in 2017 and annual visitor numbers rose to 40.45 million.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director, Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire said: “When we relaunched our consumer website our main aim was to put visitors right at the heart of our planning and offer them a much better, more streamlined experience”

“We’re delighted that, for the first time, we’re ranked in the top ten most visited UK sites out of about 150 UK destinations – previously the best position we’ve achieved has been 13th.

“It’s also great to see that our social media following has grown substantially over the past year, thanks to our emphasis on posting engaging, image-led content – particularly on Instagram, where our following has increased by 46 per cent.

“I’d like to thank everyone in the team for their hard work and commitment to putting the Peak District and Derbyshire where it belongs – as the UK and overseas visitors’ destination of choice, regionally, nationally and globally.”

tourism

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Leisure, Visiting

Value of Peak tourism hits new heights

The value of tourism to the Peak District and Derbyshire economy exceeded all expectations in 2017 – rising by six per cent to £2.15 billion.

New research released by official tourist board Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire reveals that the increase on 2016 was double the average annual rise of three per cent since 2011.

Annual visitor numbers rose to 40.45 million, an increase of more than 1.3 per cent, while the number of full time equivalent jobs supported by the visitor economy is up by almost 2.5 per cent at 28,630.

The latest figures also reveal a trend for more visitors to stay in non-serviced accommodation such as self-catering and at camping and caravanning sites.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire said “This is excellent news for the Peak District and Derbyshire economy, and for everyone who lives, works and comes to stay here”

“The significant rise in tourism’s overall value over the past year signals that our long-term policy to run innovative and targeted marketing, PR and social media campaigns to encourage more people to come and stay for longer and to spend more money here is really paying off.”

“The latest figures also show that our efforts to attract more visitors at quieter times of the year to extend the season from February to November are also effective, with more people staying for three or four nights rather than two.”

Vote for the Peak District and Derbyshire in the ‘Best Holiday Region or County’ category as part of the British Travel Awards 2018. Click here to find out more and cast your vote!

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Leisure, Visiting

Peak FM launches Shop Local campaign in Chesterfield

Following the success of similar Peak FM initiative Shop Local last summer, this year the radio station has decided to go a step further with a full journalistic investigation into the state of the streets in Chesterfield, combined with an emotive collection of live shows and appearances on the streets.

Shop Local 2018 officially launched at 6am on Monday 20th August when Peak FM Breakfast hosts Ricky and Becky broadcast their breakfast show live from the centre of Chesterfield.

Ricky and Becky were joined by Peak FM’s journalists and events team who spoke with Toby Perkins MP, Chesterfield Borough Council leader Tricia Gilby, market traders, shoppers and campaign groups. During the campaign, the radio station will be asking questions to those in influential positions to get a real steer on Chesterfield’s issues and those in the surrounding towns.

Toby Perkins MP told Peak FM: “It is tempting to walk around and just spot an empty unit, but actually 93 percent of the stores in Chesterfield are being used.”

“We need to recognise the shape of town centres is changing, but also recognise how much better we’re doing than many other towns that I could mention around here.”

Peak FM’s Content Controller Tim Smith is sure the campaign will have impact: “We already have a superb range of shops in Chesterfield, some really innovative independent businesses and one of the biggest markets in Europe. We’re really confident this drive will remind people just how much there is on offer here! So come down – meet Ricky, Becky and the team and let’s show our Chesterfield shopkeepers, market traders and retailers how much we love them!”

To find out more about Peak FM’s Shop Local campaign check out their website or tune in.

Peak FM’s Joe Rawson talks to Toby Perkins MP

Shop Local

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Visiting

Franklin & Sons receives six stars at the Great Taste Awards 2018

Franklin & Sons, part of Chesterfield’s Global Brands, is celebrating another year of success at the Great Taste Awards, with four of its drinks picking up the renowned accolades this year. Having received Great Taste honours for three years running Franklin & Sons has now truly cemented its status as one of the highest quality drinks brands in the UK. Consistently meeting the exacting standards of the judges, the brand can now boast ‘Great Taste Producer’ status.

Franklin & Sons was the only Natural Indian (non-flavoured) tonic water to achieve the coveted 2 stars within the 2018 awards, whilst the Naturally Light Tonic Water also achieved one star. From the soft drinks range Wild Strawberry & Scottish Raspberry with Cracked Black Pepper also achieved the coveted 2 star status and British Dandelion & Handpicked Burdock with Star Anise also celebrated a one star win.

Calli O’Brien, Senior Brand Manager at Franklin & Sons states:

“We are extremely proud of our range and to have our flagship variant, Natural Indian Tonic Water, as the only non-flavoured tonic to receive two stars is just outstanding. We are continuously blown away by its fantastic taste & ability to bring out the best in all spirits, not just gin, and are absolutely ecstatic that the expert panel at Great Taste agree!”

O’Brien adds “It’s been an incredible three years, culminating in achieving ‘producer’ status this year. Natural ingredients with real provenance that deliver exceptional taste experiences have always been a focus for us across the entire range. We have the highest possible standards and ensure that only the best quality products, that also reflect the heritage the brand, make it to market.”

Now based at Casa Hotel in Chesterfield, the company was originally launched in 1886, and has led the premium soft drinks and mixer industry with its dynamic range of drinks. They export to over 30 countries around the world while maintaining its family-oriented roots.

Franklin & Sons is available to purchase in the off-trade from prestigious stores such as Harrods, Selfridges, and Booths, as well as national supermarket Tesco, Ocado and in exclusive on-trade venues such as Claridges, Hilton Hotels, & Marco Pierre Whites.

Franklin & Sons

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield

Ringwood Hall’s new spa awarded 5 Bubbles

The Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa has been awarded the prestigious 5 Bubble rating for its newly opened Garden Secret Spa – the first to be awarded within Derbyshire in 2018.

The Bubble rating is awarded by the Good Spa Guide which is the expert guide to the best UK spas and treatments.  Just 21 spas within the UK have achieved 5 Bubbles during 2018.

This latest accolade for Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa comes just four months after the hotel achieved its 4 Star AA Status.

Meeting a strict inspection covering all aspects of the spa journey, the spa scored top marks in all areas, in particular highlighting the food quality, spa facilities and customer service.

The inspector noted that they loved the impressive gardens, the garden theme and the Lola’s Apothecary treatments, stating: “This hidden gem of a spa embraces nature at every turn, making it a supremely soothing place to escape to.  Treatments are unique and professionally delivered, the facilities are top-notch, customer service is great and the gardens are simply stunning.”

Spa Manager, Jemma Whitney said: “I am delighted that the Garden Secret Spa has been awarded the 5 Bubble status.

I think I speak for everyone at Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa when I say we are so proud to receive such recognition.  To be the first Derbyshire Spa with 5 Bubbles just makes the hard work the whole team have put in even more rewarding.

I am thrilled that the spa spy loved their Lola’s Apothecary treatment, we are the only spa in the UK to have treatments incorporating this brand and we feel honoured to be associated with such a beautiful product”.

The Garden Secret Spa features a Vitality Pool, Herbal Sauna, Foot Spas, Himalayan Salt Sauna, Blossom Steam Room, Ice Fountain, Experience Showers, Relaxation Lounges, 7 treatment rooms and its own Brassiere.

Ring Wood Hall Garden Secret Spa

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Leisure, Visiting

Luxury accommodation opens in Chesterfield town centre

The owners of award-winning Stephensons Tea and Coffee House have expanded their portfolio to include three brand-new, luxury bed and breakfast suites.

Stephenson’s Bed and Breakfast celebrated its official opening on Tuesday 3rd July with the cutting of a ribbon by the Mayor of Chesterfield, Councillor Stuart Brittain and a networking event with Chesterfield Champions.

Luxury Accommodation opens in Chesterfield

Situated in the centre of Chesterfield, the accommodation offers high quality, large rooms, with one boasting amazing views of the Crooked Spire.

Breakfast is served at the newly-refurbished Stephensons Tea and Coffee House, which is on the first floor of the same building (as well as offering room service as required).

Owners, Claire and Sam Wood (a Mum and son team) are excited for their new business venture. Claire said:-

“We are delighted to have opened our luxury, town-centre accommodation and are looking forward to welcoming guests.

“It’s great to be able to build on the success of Stephensons Tea and Coffee House, which has won Café of the Year twice in the Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards and now enjoys brand new premises just a floor below the original café.

“Whether visiting Chesterfield for business or pleasure, exploring the Peak District or visiting one of our many local attractions, Stephenson’s Bed and Breakfast is perfect for your stay.”

Stephenson’s Bed and Breakfast is located at 11 Stephenson’s Place with bookings available both online or by telephone.

Stephenson Bed and Breakfast

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards, Leisure, Visiting

Nominate now in the 2018 Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards

Nominations are now open for the sixth annual Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards.

The town’s thriving food and drink sector will once again be celebrated by awards organiser, Destination Chesterfield. It is now urging people to nominate their favourite restaurants, bars, cafes, pubs and tearooms across 10 categories.

And it’s not just businesses you can nominate in the 2018 awards. Apprentices and apprenticeships are also being recognised this year with the introduction of two brand new categories – Apprentice of the Year and Apprentice Employer of the Year.

Nominations across 10 categories can be made online until midnight on Monday 11th June 2018 at www.chesterfield.co.uk/foodanddrinkawards.

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield is now urging people to get nominating. He said: “Each year we get more and more nominations proving that we’re a town that appreciates good food and customer service. There are so many fantastic businesses and  people working within them in the town. For them to have a chance of taking home one of the prestigious awards, they have to be nominated – their future is in your hands.”

“I hope the people of Chesterfield get behind us once again and nominate to help make the 2018 Food and Drink Awards 2018 the best yet.”

Once again, The Chesterfield College Group is the headline sponsor of the prestigious awards and will also be hosting the glittering awards ceremony in its Heart Space building later this year.

Julie Richards, Principal and Chief Executive of the Chesterfield College Group said: “It is fantastic to be able to support this annual celebration of the best of our local food and drink industry once again this year. The event highlights local talent in the industry at the same time as giving our catering and hospitality students some amazing opportunities to showcase their talent. I look forward to welcoming the shortlisted nominees to Chesterfield College in October.”

Nominations can be made across 10 categories in the 2018 Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards include:

Other supporters of the awards include the Apprentice Town initiative led by Chesterfield Borough Council, Casa Hotel, Derbyshire Times, Elder Way (Jomast), Owen Taylor & Sons, Peak FM and Reflections.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Cheer on England in the UEFA U17’s Euro Semi Final for just £1

England are through to the semi-finals of the U17 Euros and all tickets for the match at the home of the Spireites on Thursday evening are just £1.

England beat Norway 2-0 in the quarter-finals at Burton to reach the last four of the competition, where they will play either Republic of Ireland or the Netherlands at Chesterfield this Thursday evening (7pm).

Goals from Bobby Duncan and Xavier Amaechi secured the win for the Young Lions, with over 5,000 England fans coming out to support the youngsters.

UEFA and The Football Association have made all tickets for the semi-final just £1 for all and have encouraged fans to come out and support the Young Lions as they aim to reach the final at Rotherham on Sunday.

With the tournament already being a major success, with combined attendances reaching over 40,000 so far, The FA has been working alongside local schools to engage children in the area.

England head coach Steve Cooper said: “I know the people who have been managing the tournament have wanted it to be affordable for families and children. That has definitely been reflected in the crowds we’ve got for England matches.

“We had a fantastic turnout at our opening group game at Chesterfield. It was a brilliant atmosphere and we’re really grateful for the support.

“Chesterfield is a great venue and we’re really looking forward to playing there again on Thursday. Hopefully we can get another strong attendance for the semi-final.”

See England play either Republic of Ireland or the Netherlands at Chesterfield this Thursday (7pm) in the UEFA European Under-17 Championship semi-final.

Tickets are on sale now for £1 via www.thefa.com or at the Chesterfield FC Club Superstore, including on the day of the game.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Get in the groove for new festival in Chesterfield

Residents and visitors are encouraged to head to Chesterfield’s market for a brand new food and music festival this month.

The Street Food and Grooves festival, organised by Edge Events and supported by Chesterfield Borough Council, begins with a launch party on Friday 11 May from 6pm and continues over the weekend.

Edge Events organises the popular Chesterfield Food Festival held in Queen’s Park which returns on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 August this year.

Taking place in New Square, the Street Food and Grooves Festival will feature some of the finest local produce including world street food including vegetarian and vegan dishes, sweet treats, ales, bespoke gin and vodka, prosecco and a selection of wines.

On Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 May from 11am, some of the region’s talented musicians will give live performances to suit every musical taste playing live from the Sound Bites Stage’

Councillor Steve Brunt, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This festival is a really exciting opportunity for people to visit our historic market and try some of the world’s most popular street foods and hear talented local musicians.

“One of our top priorities is to make Chesterfield a thriving borough.As with the recent successful Chesterfield Wheel ride, this new festival is an example of how we are working in partnership with the private sector to add exciting new events to the calendar.

“We are sure it will prove a real draw and encourage more people to come into the town centre to support our fantastic local shops, market traders, bars and restaurants.”

Chesterfield residents can use their residents’ parking pass to park free all day on Sunday 13 May.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

New clothing shop opens in former Burton Store

Ingmans, a new clothing retailer and cobbler has opened in the former Burton Store on Burlington Street.

Andy Ingman, who owns the store, has over 30 years of experience as a cobbler but always dreamt of owning a clothes shop after reading Gentleman: A Timeless Fashion.

The business is much more than just a top end retailer; from the store the team manufactures its own brand of high-end leather goods called Cobb England.

The store also offers cobbling services and is an official repair agent for Barker Shoes.

Andy Ingman, Owner said “We wanted to create a lovely place to shop with a unique experience where we can offer excellent customer service.  We have a beautiful stock of shoes, clothing & handmade leather goods and we have also created a wonderful workspace for shoe repairs.”

“We hope our store is good for Chesterfield and helps attract more people to shop in the town.”

The store is the latest in a number of new opening and expansions in the town, which have included Go Outdoors, T J Hughes, Trespass, Patisserie Valerie and a number of independent retailers.

Ingmans

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Chesterfield Retail Awards

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