Leisure

£700,000 project to transform Chesterfield’s historic Shambles

A new £700,000 regeneration project aims to enhance one of Chesterfield’s most historic areas and bring vacant town centre buildings back into use.

Chesterfield Borough Council will use funding from Chesterfield’s Pride in Place programme, overseen by the Chesterfield Town Board, to enhance the Shambles, attract further investment and encourage more visitors to support independent businesses.

Part of the funding will enhance the Shambles with new street furniture, signage, planting and public art, while most will fund a new grant scheme for businesses and landlords.

The Shambles Building Improvement Grant will help businesses improve their premises, with the scheme designed to enhance the appearance of the area while safeguarding its historic character, bringing vacant properties back into use and improving accessibility.

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

“The Shambles is a unique part of our town centre and is home to incredible independent businesses. We want to help make these spaces more attractive and encourage more visitors to explore the historic lanes.

“This project will ensure that the town centre remains an attractive place to visit and provides support to help tackle one of the issues that we know matters to our community.”

Small businesses and charities based within the Shambles will be able to claim a percentage of the costs of eligible improvements through the grant scheme. The council will work with businesses and landlords to develop the programme.

An urban design plan has been developed which will guide the improvements to ensure they are sensitive to the historic nature of the area.

The council is now developing detailed plans for the first phase, which will include new street furniture, planting, lighting and public art. Businesses and landlords will have the opportunity to view the plans before work begins on site in 2027.

Dominic Staniforth, local business leader and Chair of Chesterfield Town Board, said:

“This project reflects some of the key priorities that we identified through our engagement with local people including making better use of vacant premises, creating a welcoming town centre environment and enhancing the historic feel of the town centre.

“We funded this project because we want to work with businesses and provide the support, they need to enhance their premises which will give them opportunities to attract more customers and grow their business.”

Chesterfield Borough Council’s Cabinet approved the acceptance of the funding on Tuesday, 22nd September. The project will go to Full Council in October, where members will be asked to formally approve its addition to the council’s Capital Programme.

Chesterfield is benefitting from almost £20 million of government Pride in Place funding to invest in local projects between 2026 and 2036. The Chesterfield Town Board is overseeing the investment and ensuring the views of local people help shape how the funding is spent.

The government approved the board’s regeneration plan in March 2026. The board developed the plan following extensive engagement with local people, reflecting the priorities they identified for the future of the area.

Improving the vibrancy, safety and attractiveness of our town centre emerged as a key priority, with a range of projects and initiatives proposed to help achieve that vision.

To find out more about the Chesterfield Town Board and read the regeneration plan visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/regeneration-and-economic-growth/pride-in-place-chesterfield-town-board/

Discover more funding and grants available to Chesterfield businesses: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/funding-and-grants/

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

Charles Hedley expands into larger Market Hall premises

Country clothing and accessories business Charles Hedley has expanded into larger premises within Chesterfield Market Hall, creating more space to display its growing range and improve the customer experience.

Offering a carefully selected range of quality clothing, footwear, leather goods and accessories for men and women, Charles Hedley’s collection includes Harris Tweed, British-made and traditionally crafted products, alongside leather jackets and bags, country clothing, footwear, hats and accessories.

First established at Chesterfield markets in September 1981, Charles Hedley moved into Chesterfield Market Hall in 2014. The shop has now relocated from its previous premises inside the Market Hall to the outside of the Market Hall.

Tom Towndrow, Manager at Charles Hedley, said:

“The move to Shop 8 was really a natural progression for the business. Since opening in Chesterfield Market Hall, Charles Hedley has continued to grow, and we reached the point where we needed more space to display our products properly and give customers a better shopping experience.”

The move marks a new chapter for the business after more than a decade in the Market Hall, allowing it to build on what it has achieved and continue developing for the future.

Being based in the Market Hall has also allowed Charles Hedley to become part of our town centre’s independent business community.

Tom added:

“We really enjoy the atmosphere and community within the Market Hall. There is a great mix of independent businesses, and it is nice to be part of a place where customers can shop locally and discover different businesses under one roof.

The Market Hall also has a real sense of character, and we enjoy being part of its continued development.”

Chesterfield remains an important location for the business, with customers visiting from our town itself as well as surrounding towns and villages.

Tom said:

“It has a strong local community and a good mix of independent businesses, and we like being part of the town centre. Being in Chesterfield also gives us the opportunity to build relationships with local customers while attracting people visiting the town.”

Alongside its physical shop, Charles Hedley has continued to develop its online presence. The move into Shop 8 provides further room to grow the product range, strengthen the customer experience and continue building the business while remaining focused on quality clothing, traditional craftsmanship and good customer service.

Looking ahead, Charles Hedley plans to continue developing its product range and customer experience while maintaining its focus on quality clothing.

To discover information on locating your business in our town centre, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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

New yoga and wellness studio set to open in town centre

Casa Om is preparing to open on 19 South Street in Chesterfield town centre, bringing a mix of movement classes and holistic treatments to our town.

The studio was created by yoga teacher Mariana, who was born in Brazil, raised in Barcelona, and has spent years working in yoga studios across Barcelona and Madrid. Having always wanted to open her own studio, she saw an opportunity when the previous owner of a Chesterfield studio decided to close.

Mariana said:

“I have always wanted to have my own studio. It was always how I envisioned establishing myself in my professional career.”

Casa Om will allow Mariana to bring together the different forms of movement and wellbeing she is passionate about. Alongside yoga, the studio will offer Pilates and barre, with holistic treatments also being provided by the business Skin and Bodhi.

Mariana is particularly looking forward to introducing her own style of teaching to Chesterfield. She is a Navakarana yoga teacher, a method focused on dynamic movement, breath and transformation, designed to help students find physical and mental balance.

She also sings mantras during practice and plays a percussion instrument – elements of her teaching that she has previously been more hesitant to introduce in some studios because she was concerned they could feel intimidating to some practitioners.

At Casa Om, Mariana hopes to create an environment where she can teach authentically while giving people the opportunity to explore different forms of movement in one place.

The studio will also reflect Mariana’s background and connection to Mediterranean culture and nature. Having grown up in Barcelona and spent summers surrounded by Mediterranean nature, she wants to bring that warmth into the studio, from its design to the overall experience.

She hopes Casa Om will help encourage more young people to try yoga, challenging the idea that yoga is only about sitting down and meditating. While she recognises meditation as an important part of the practice, Mariana believes there is much more for people to explore through movement.

Her longer-term ambition is to build a thriving local community around the studio, bringing together yoga, Pilates, barre, running clubs and holistic treatments.

Starting a new business in Chesterfield has not been without its challenges. Mariana was initially concerned about finding her place within a well-established local yoga community, where existing teachers already had strong relationships with their students.

However, the support of her own students has helped give her confidence to continue with the venture and build a community of her own.

Casa Om is intended to become more than somewhere to attend a class, with Mariana hoping it can provide a welcoming space where people can meet others, find support and develop a healthier lifestyle centred around movement.

Mariana added:

“We want Casa Om to become a second home for many, a place for anyone who needs company, support, or a community that believes in them.”

The studio is expected to open its doors by the beginning of October, 2026. Classes can be booked through the Casa Om website, with the business also launching its own app, which was built from scratch by Mariana’s partner, Frank.

To discover more activities and experiences across Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

 

Posted in Business, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Refurbishment works complete at Chesterfield theatre and museum

The refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall has transformed the historic Chesterfield venue ahead of its reopening as 1435 later this year.

The transformation of the landmark theatre and museum will see the venue reopen with a 625-seat theatre, an expanded museum with improved facilities for hosting prestigious touring works, two bars and flexible spaces for meetings and events.

The new design preserves the heritage of the building while modernising its facilities to enhance the visitor experience.

Works began in December 2023, with Chesterfield Borough Council’s contractor G F Tomlinson officially handing the building back to the council last week.

The council will now complete the finishing touches ahead of the reopening, including moving museum objects and furnishings back into the building and carrying out staff training.

Chesterfield’s annual pantomime, Beauty and the Beast, will kick off the new venue’s programme, with more shows and museum exhibitions to follow.

1435 theatre stage

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

“We cannot wait to welcome residents and visitors into 1435 later this year. The completion of building works is a major step towards reopening and allows us to start preparing the venue ready for visitors to experience it later this year.

“The transformation of this building will help ensure that future generations can experience heritage and culture in an incredible setting, but we’ve worked hard to ensure that there will still be lots of features that our regular visitors know and love.

“This is an ambitious project for Chesterfield, and it will ensure that we can attract more visitors through an expanded cultural offering in this wonderful building.”

The refurbishment has transformed the space into a modern visitor attraction while preserving the building and safeguarding it for future generations.

The works have included creating a new internal layout, rewiring the entire building, installing a new heating and ventilation system, a new roof and carrying out structural works.

Andy Sewards, Chairman of G F Tomlinson, said:

“We are proud to have played a key role in the transformation of Stephenson Memorial Hall into 1435, helping to bring new life to one of Chesterfield’s most important historic buildings. This has been a complex and rewarding project, carefully balancing the preservation of the building’s heritage with the delivery of modern, high-quality facilities that will serve the community for generations to come.

“Working closely with Chesterfield Borough Council and the wider project team, we are delighted to see the completed venue ready to support arts, culture and community activity in the town centre. 1435 is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through strong partnership and a commitment to creating a vibrant, accessible and future-ready destination for Chesterfield.”

Introducing 1435

To mark the start of the building’s new future while celebrating its long history, the venue will open as 1435, a name inspired by one of George Stephenson’s greatest innovations: the standard gauge rail track.

Set 1435mm apart, this became the global benchmark for rail travel, carrying people, ideas and opportunities across continents. That same spirit of connection sits at the heart of 1435, which will bring visitors together through arts, culture and heritage while creating fresh links across the community.

Railways reshaped the world – and they reshaped Chesterfield too. The transformed venue now plays a central role in the council’s wider regeneration of the town centre, designed to welcome new audiences and create vibrant spaces that serve local people for years to come.

Councillor Tricia Gilby added:

“Our new identity marks the start of the next chapter for this building. 1435 looks forward while still honouring the past. We want this venue to be a place where connections across the community can be forged, and we wanted to ensure that this aim is reflected in the name.”

Funding the refurbishment

Funding for the project includes £11 million of a £20 million grant awarded to Chesterfield Borough Council through the Levelling Up Fund.

East Midlands Combined County Authority’s capital grants programme has provided £1 million of funding for the refurbishment.

Arts Council England has contributed over £600,000 towards the new ventilation system and Changing Places toilet.

The additional funding required for the refurbishment has been provided by Chesterfield Borough Council, which owns and manages the building.

Find out what’s on at Chesterfield Theatres and across Chesterfield: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/

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

Starbucks to open second Chesterfield drive-thru at Alma Leisure Park

A new Starbucks drive-thru will open at Chesterfield’s Alma Leisure Park on Thursday, 17th September, 2026, adding another major name to the popular leisure destination.

The new store, which will occupy the former Frankie & Benny’s unit, will officially open its doors at 10:00am, bringing Starbucks to another prominent location in Chesterfield.

The opening will expand Starbucks’ presence in our town, following the launch of its Meltham Lane drive-thru near Whittington Moor in March 2023. The Meltham Lane store continues to offer drive-thru facilities, alongside mobile ordering and other Starbucks services.

Alma Leisure Park is already home to a range of well-known food and leisure brands, including Dunkin’, McDonald’s and Nando’s, with the new Starbucks adding to the choice available to visitors.

The grand opening will have a strong community focus, with Chesterfield Champion arts charity Junction Arts taking part in the celebrations.

Junction Arts will perform the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, highlighting the partnership between Starbucks and the local charity.

Rhianna Mayhew, Store Manager at Starbucks Alma Leisure Park, said:

“We are honoured to have Junction Arts performing our official ribbon-cutting ceremony! This partnership highlights our deep commitment to community engagement and celebrates the vital role creativity and the arts play within our barista team.”

Hannah, Development Manager at Junction Arts, will also lead a creative crafting activity at the store, with the session raising funds to support the charity’s community work.

The opening will also offer something for early visitors, with the first 50 customers receiving goody bags containing Starbucks merchandise, premium coffee and discount vouchers.

Starbucks is one of the world’s best-known coffee brands, with stores across the globe serving coffee, speciality drinks and food. The new Alma Leisure Park location will offer customers the option of using the drive-thru as well as visiting the store.

The new opening is also part of further plans for Starbucks in Chesterfield, with another branch planned for Chatsworth Road. The new location is expected to open in spring 2027, further expanding the brand’s presence across the town.

The continued investment from well-known food and drink brands adds to the growing mix of businesses at Alma Leisure Park, strengthening its role as a destination for food, drink and leisure for people in Chesterfield and the surrounding area.

Discover more food and drink businesses to try in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/2026/05/50-food-and-drink-businesses-to-try-in-chesterfield/

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

Poundstretcher to open new store at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre

Poundstretcher is set to open at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre on Wednesday, 26th August 2026.

The discount retailer is moving into the former River Island unit, with doors opening to the public at 9:00 am.

Mayor Shirley Niblock will attend the opening, while the first 100 customers through the doors will receive a free goody bag.

The store will offer a range of branded and non-branded products across clothing, DIY, gardening, health and beauty, home décor, snacks, storage, pet products, sweets and drinks.

The arrival will add to the range of retailers at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, providing further choice for people visiting Chesterfield town centre.

It will also create up to 12 new jobs, providing further employment opportunities for local people and adding to the number of people working within the town centre.

The new Vicar Lane Shopping Centre store forms part of Poundstretcher’s wider UK expansion plans, as the retailer continues to grow its network of stores.

Andy Atkinson, Chief Executive Officer of Poundstretcher, said:

“Household budgets remain under pressure, so we are committed to expanding our store network and making it easier for even more people to access great products at great prices. We’re thrilled to be opening in Chesterfield and can’t wait to welcome shoppers through our doors in Vicar Lane Shopping Centre on August 26th.”

The opening comes as Chesterfield’s town centre continues to offer a mix of national retailers and independent businesses, supporting its role as a destination for shopping and leisure.

Discover more places to shop in Chesterfield by visiting: www.chesterfield.co.uk/independent-retailers-in-chesterfield

Posted in Business, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Chesterfield Canal restoration progress showcased to more than 200 people

More than 200 people have seen the progress of the Chesterfield Canal restoration in Staveley, with the latest section of works now nearing completion.

On Tuesday, 18th August 2026, the Chesterfield Canal Trust led guided walks through the restoration site, allowing visitors to see the engineering work taking place along a 450-metre section of the historic waterway.

A group of journalists were taken through the site in the morning, before members of the public were welcomed in the afternoon. Demand for the public walks was high, with all 180 tickets sold in less than 24 hours.

Rod Auton, Company Secretary, Publicity and Membership for Chesterfield Canal Trust, said:

“It was fantastic to see such a strong response to the opportunity to visit the restoration works, with all 180 public tickets selling in less than 24 hours. It was a great opportunity to show people the progress that has been made and give them a first-hand look at the work taking place to bring this section of the Chesterfield Canal back to life.

There is a huge amount of work involved in restoring this short section, so it was particularly rewarding to share the progress with the people who have been following the project.”

The works form part of a wider £6 million restoration project, supported largely through the £25.2 million Staveley Town Deal. The project is helping to reinstate a section of the canal, alongside improvements to the surrounding routes and infrastructure.

Bringing the canal back to life

Although the section being restored is relatively short, it includes a number of complex engineering features.

The former Hartington Railway Bridge abutments have been reinforced with a concrete base, while the new Keith Ayling Lock is being installed further along the route.

The lock features gates made from Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP), using recycled wind turbine blades. The Trust believes these are the first gates of their kind to be used on a narrow canal in the UK.

A specially designed pumping system is also being installed to raise the water level into the restored section. It has been designed to allow fish and eels to pass through safely.

Further along, work is taking place around the foundations of a former mineral railway bridge, while the future Bellhouse Bridge will feature a stop gate allowing a section of canal to be drained quickly if required.

Bellhouse Basin is also being reconstructed at its original height, around two metres above the level to which it had previously subsided.

The restoration is an important part of the wider regeneration of Staveley, helping to bring the historic waterway back into use while creating improved routes through the area.

With the latest works nearing completion, the walks provided a first-hand look at the scale and complexity of the work taking place to bring this section of the canal back to life.

For more information on the canal restoration and more developments taking place across Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/staveley/staveley-town-deal-projects/chesterfield-canal-restoration/

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

Chesterfield Champions invest in talent, growth and visitor economy

From supporting apprentices to take the next step in their careers, to welcoming new talent and expanding accommodation for visitors, the latest developments highlight how our Chesterfield Champions are contributing to the town’s continued growth.

Paragon Products grows future talent through apprenticeship

Chesterfield-based Paragon Products is supporting its future growth by appointing former apprentice Natasha Mills as Marketing Executive.

The family-owned business has more than 37 years of industry experience, supplying cleaning products and solutions to sectors including transport, education, construction, facilities management and the public sector.

During her apprenticeship, Natasha was trusted with significant projects, allowing her to gain practical experience and take on responsibility from an early stage.

She said:

“Paragon has supported me throughout my apprenticeship by providing a supportive and trusting working environment where I’ve been encouraged to grow and develop professionally. From an early stage, I was given the opportunity to take ownership of significant projects, which accelerated my learning and helped me build both my confidence and my skills.”

Natasha would recommend an apprenticeship to others, highlighting the value of combining workplace experience with learning.

“I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship to others because it gives you a genuine insight into the career path you’ve chosen from day one. You’re able to learn the fundamentals of the industry while gaining real workplace experience, which is something that can’t always be replicated in a classroom environment.”

Having completed her apprenticeship, Natasha has now moved into her Marketing Executive role, where she will take on greater responsibility as she continues her career with the business.

She added:

“This next chapter represents an exciting new challenge as I move into my role as Marketing Executive at Paragon. It’s an opportunity to take on greater responsibility, continue developing my skills and build on everything I’ve learned throughout my apprenticeship.”

Natasha’s progression provides an example of how apprenticeships can help businesses retain and develop talent, while creating opportunities for employees to build their careers within the organisation.

Paragon Products, former apprentice Natasha Mills, Marketing Executive.

New Peak Edge accommodation offers a base for Peak District escapes

A new private retreat at Peak Edge Hotel is offering visitors a place to stay while exploring both the Peak District and Chesterfield, with countryside attractions and our town centre within easy reach.

Bramble Barn, the latest accommodation at Peak Edge Hotel, can sleep up to 11 guests across four bedrooms, making it suited to families, groups of friends and those planning a special occasion.

The barn combines traditional character with modern comforts, with spacious living areas providing plenty of room for guests to relax and spend time together.

Its location puts guests within easy reach of the Peak District, with walking routes and countryside attractions nearby. After exploring the area, guests can return to the barn’s private hot tub and enjoy the surrounding countryside.

Just a short stroll from Bramble Barn, the award-winning Red Lion Restaurant offers seasonal dishes inspired by the local area, using ingredients sourced from trusted local suppliers.

Mark Thurman, Managing Director at Peak Edge Hotel, said:

“Bramble Barn gives us something a little different at Peak Edge. We know that lots of our guests want to visit the Peak District with extended family or groups of friends, but still want the comfort and experience of staying somewhere special. The barn gives them their own private space where everyone can stay together, with the countryside on the doorstep and the Red Lion and everything at Peak Edge just a short walk away.”

 

SMH Mitchells continues growth with five new appointments

Chesterfield accountancy firm SMH Mitchells has welcomed five new team members as it continues to invest in its people and support the firm’s long-term growth.

Part of the wider SMH Group, the firm has strengthened its audit and tax teams with experienced professionals, graduates and university placement students.

Arbaaz Yaseen joined in June as an ACA-qualified Audit Senior, bringing five years’ experience from another accountancy practice. He was encouraged to join after speaking with former colleagues now working at SMH Mitchells.

Dawn Thomson joined the audit team as a graduate after previously applying for a placement with the firm and gaining experience in corporate finance. A positive impression of the business and conversations with trainees at a university careers event encouraged her to return.

Azizur Rahman joined  as a university placement student, attracted by the opportunities available through the wider SMH Group.

Finlay Zartarian will join in September, impressed by the firm’s track record of supporting placement students throughout their studies and into permanent roles.

Ella Gascoigne joined in May to continue studying towards her ATT qualification after working in the legal sector, attracted by the opportunity to continue her qualifications within a business that supports learning and development.

David Waining, Senior Manager at SMH Mitchells, said:

“We’re delighted to welcome Ella, Arbaaz, Dawn, Azizur and Finlay to the team. Although they’re all joining us at different stages of their careers, they each recognised the same thing, that SMH Mitchells is a place where people are supported, encouraged to develop and given opportunities to progress.

Being part of the wider SMH Group allows us to offer the best of both worlds. We’re committed to continuing that investment in our people as we grow.”

As the business continues to grow, SMH Mitchells remains focused on creating an environment where talented people can thrive, develop their careers, and contribute to the long-term success of both the firm and its clients.

Looking to grow your business? Complete our form to be connected with an advisor who can offer guidance and support to help your business grow: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Paragon Products, Peak Edge Hotel and SMH Mitchells are among more than 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

 

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

Record-breaking Sparkle Night Walk raises £388,238 for Ashgate Hospice

Ashgate Hospice’s Sparkle Night Walk has raised a record-breaking £388,238, making it the most successful event in the fundraiser’s history.

More than 3,500 people turned the streets of Chesterfield pink on Saturday, 27th June 2026, taking part in the 10km route to raise funds for specialist palliative and end-of-life care across North Derbyshire.

The event was supported by entertainment throughout the evening, including singers, DJs, fire breathers and bubbles, while supporters cheered participants on from bridges along the route.

The total will help Ashgate provide care for people living with life-limiting illnesses and support for those important to them, whether at home, in the community or at the hospice.

James Branson, Events and Community Fundraising Manager at Ashgate Hospice, said:

“To raise a record-breaking £388,238 is an incredible achievement, and we’re so grateful to everyone who played a part. Every single person who signed up, donated, volunteered, sponsored the event or stood along the route cheering people on helped make this possible.

“Sparkle Night Walk is about so much more than fundraising. Every person taking part has their own story and their own reason for walking. Many are remembering someone they love, saying thank you for the care their family received, or helping make sure we’re here for future generations.

“Seeing thousands of people come together in support of their local hospice was incredibly moving. Their generosity will help ensure we can continue providing expert care and support to local families when they need us most.”

The event, which began in 2015, has now raised more than £2.9 million for Ashgate Hospice, helping thousands of local people receive specialist care and support.

Ashgate needs to raise around £11 million each year to continue providing its services, with around a third of its funding coming from the NHS.

To discover more events happening in and around Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/

Registration for Sparkle Night Walk 2027 is now open.

Ashgate Hospice, is among more than 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Posted in Home, Leisure

New Trespass store opens at The Pavements Shopping Centre

Outdoor clothing and equipment retailer Trespass has opened a new store at The Pavements Shopping Centre, giving shoppers a new destination for outdoor clothing, footwear and equipment in the heart of our town centre.

The new store, which opened on Tuesday, 4th August 2026, stocks a wide range of products for walking, camping, skiing and everyday outdoor activities, including waterproof jackets, walking boots, backpacks, camping equipment and outdoor accessories. Customers can also browse the brand’s premium DLX collection, featuring technical clothing and equipment designed for more demanding adventures.

The opening reflects Chesterfield’s strong connection to the outdoors, with the town providing easy access to the Peak District National Park and the surrounding Derbyshire countryside. Whether exploring local walking trails, planning a camping trip or preparing for a winter sports holiday, shoppers can now find everything they need in our town centre.

People running in Trespass clothing

Kerry Pearson, Area Manager at Trespass, said:

“We’re delighted to be opening our newest store at The Pavements Shopping Centre in Chesterfield. As we continue to expand our presence across the UK, Chesterfield is a fantastic location for Trespass, with its strong connection to the outdoors and its close proximity to the Peak District National Park and the surrounding Derbyshire countryside. We’re excited to bring our range of high-quality outdoor clothing, footwear and equipment to local residents and visitors alike, offering the performance, style and value that Trespass is known for. With summer in full swing and plenty of outdoor adventures ahead, it’s the perfect time to welcome customers through our doors.”

To celebrate the opening, Trespass is offering £10 off for customers who spend over £50 at the Chesterfield store.

The offer is available only at the Trespass Chesterfield from Tuesday, 4th August 2026, until Monday, 17th August 2026, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other group discount scheme.

The arrival of the store follows Trespass’ continued expansion across the UK, with the Chesterfield store becoming the latest addition to the retailer’s nationwide network and reinforcing confidence in Chesterfield as a destination for shopping and leisure.

To discover more shops and independent retailers in Chesterfield town centre, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/

For more information about Trespass, visit: www.trespass.com

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

New independent bookshop brings fantasy worlds to town centre

Chesterfield’s independent retail scene continues to grow with the opening of The Griffin’s Library, a specialist bookshop dedicated to fantasy, romantasy, horror and science fiction.

The business opened in our town centre on Friday, 1st August 2026, bringing a carefully selected collection of books, gifts and merchandise from local makers and small businesses to Chesterfield’s high street.

On opening day, the first 50 customers who made a purchase received a special goodie bag.

The Griffin’s Library also has plans for book clubs, midnight launches for exciting new releases, author events, book decorating workshops and plenty more activities to come.

Founded by Charlotte Perez Smith, The Griffin’s Library has been created from a lifelong passion for reading, with its collection designed to help visitors discover new authors, explore different genres and connect with fellow book lovers.

The shop’s interior features immersive fantasy-inspired elements, creating a unique environment for customers to browse and discover new stories. Alongside its retail offer, the business aims to become a community space for readers, with plans for book clubs, author events, midnight launches, book decorating workshops and The Griffin’s Quest, an interactive activity designed to encourage visitors to return.

Bookshelf display at The Griffin's Library

Charlotte chose Chesterfield as the home for her first business after being inspired by the town’s heritage and growing independent business community.

Charlotte Perez Smith, Owner of The Griffin’s Library, said:

“Chesterfield has such a rich history, and I instantly fell in love with the town, especially the iconic Crooked Spire. It has a fantastic independent spirit and a community that genuinely supports local businesses.

“I couldn’t think of a better place to begin this adventure.”

The opening follows months of planning to transform the premises into a specialist bookshop that celebrates imaginative storytelling while providing a space for readers to meet, share their interests and enjoy new experiences.

The Griffin’s Library joins a growing number of independent retailers helping to create a diverse and vibrant town centre offer, providing residents and visitors with more opportunities to shop locally and discover something different.

To discover more independent retailers in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/2026/05/50-independent-retailers-in-chesterfield/

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