Leisure

Tapton Lock Visitor Centre reopened by rock legend

Dave Berry has officially reopened Tapton Lock Visitor Centre at the Tapton Lock Festival, organised by Junction Arts.

Chesterfield Canal Trust has stepped in to reopen the centre after its closure in May and has taken out an initial nine-month licence to run the centre, owned by Derbyshire County Council.   The centre is now open daily.

Jill Hardy, who runs the Visitor Centre for the Trust, said: “We are very grateful to Dave for coming to officially open Tapton Lock Visitor Centre.   I’m delighted to announce that we will now be open every day, except Christmas Day. Please come to visit us, find out more about the canal and try some of our lovely coffee!”

Dave Berry is famous for his many classic hits from the 1960s, like The Crying Game. He lives locally, in Dronfield, and first made contact with the Chesterfield Canal Trust many years ago after taking his granddaughter on a Santa Special cruise. He was impressed by the work of the volunteers and decided to help.

He is the Chesterfield Canal Trust’s Restoration Ambassador. He once cycled the full length of the canal, raising several hundred pounds in sponsorship for the Trust. He has spoken at a Supporters’ Group meeting and is often to be found walking or cycling along the canal.

The Chesterfield Canal Trust is restoring the canal at Staveley thanks to funding from the Staveley Town Deal.

In the next few months, a new lock, a pumping system and several hundred metres of canal will be built. In addition, nearly two miles of towpath will be restored all the way to Renishaw.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Travelodge invests in Chesterfield as part of national expansion strategy

Travelodge has announced the acquisition of a Chesterfield hotel, reinforcing its commitment to growth and rebranding across the UK.

The hotel, formerly operated under the Ibis brand, is one of four newly acquired sites by Travelodge, alongside locations in Preston, Bradford Shipley and Cardiff. The move is part of the company’s wider UK strategy to convert existing hotels into Travelodge-branded properties, bringing the total number of rebranded acquisitions this year to 16.

Located within walking distance of Chesterfield town centre and railway station, the 86-room hotel offers convenient access to local attractions including the Pomegranate Theatre, Chesterfield Museum, and the nearby Peak District. It is also just a short drive from Chatsworth House, making it an ideal base for both leisure and business travellers.

The hotel will undergo a full refurbishment later this year as part of Travelodge’s multi-million pound upgrade programme. The refit will introduce the brand’s latest design standards, including a contemporary reception area, next-generation rooms, and enhanced interiors focused on comfort and functionality.

“These acquisitions are another strong addition to our UK portfolio and demonstrate the continued momentum behind our rebrand-led growth strategy,” said Steve Bennett, Chief Property and Development Officer at Travelodge. “We’re seeing increasing opportunities to convert well-located, existing hotels into Travelodges.

Travelodge’s investment reflects confidence in Chesterfield’s visitor economy and its strategic location as a base to visit the Peak District. The company has identified over 300 further locations across the UK for future expansion, with Chesterfield’s inclusion underscoring its appeal to national operators.

The rebrand is expected to enhance the town’s accommodation offering, supporting the town’s wider ambitions to grow tourism and business travel.

This investment showcases confidence in Chesterfield town centre, alongside other recent investments for residential, commercial and retail activity, including:

Discover more about investing in Chesterfield

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

Chesterfield is named one of the best places to live in Derbyshire

Chesterfield has been named one of the top 10 places to live in Derbyshire by lifestyle guide Muddy Stilettos, reinforcing the town’s growing reputation as a destination of choice for families, professionals and businesses.

The accolade highlights Chesterfield’s unique blend of countryside charm, community spirit and urban convenience. With its location on the edge of the Peak District, excellent transport links, and vibrant local culture, the town continues to attract people looking for quality of life and opportunity.

This latest recognition follows a series of national endorsements. Chesterfield was recently featured in The Guardian’s list of Britain’s happiest places to live and retained its title as the happiest town in the East Midlands in the Rightmove Happy at Home Index.

Residents consistently praise Chesterfield’s access to green spaces, affordable housing, and a strong sense of community. The town is home to one of the oldest open-air markets in England and the iconic Crooked Spire Church, which stands as a symbol of Chesterfield’s rich heritage. Its historic streets, cultural venues and growing number of independent shops and eateries contribute to a lively town centre that blends tradition with modern living.

Chesterfield also continues to invest in its future. Ongoing regeneration of the town centre, new housing developments, and improvements to local infrastructure are helping to create a place where people can live well, work productively and enjoy a balanced lifestyle.

Andrew Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said:  “This recognition reflects what so many of us already know: Chesterfield is a fantastic place to live. We’re proud of our heritage, our green spaces, and our welcoming community. With continued investment and regeneration, we’re building a place that offers opportunity, quality of life and a real sense of belonging.”

To explore what makes Chesterfield a great place to live, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/living.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Property and Construction

New sculpture to celebrate Staveley’s heritage and community

A striking new sculpture is currently being created to welcome residents and visitors to Staveley town centre. Commissioned as part of the Animate Chesterfield public art programme, the piece will celebrate the town’s rich heritage, wildlife, and community spirit.

The sculpture, titled ‘Cuckoo Boat Sail’, is being developed by acclaimed public artist Coralie Turpin. Inspired by the historic ‘Cuckoo boats’ that once sailed from the Chesterfield Canal to the River Trent, the artwork captures the ingenuity and bravery of Staveley’s ancestors while showcasing the natural beauty of the canal and its surroundings.

“The history around the ingenious people who sailed the Cuckoo boats is an empowering one for Staveley,” said Coralie. “The wildlife along the canal is a genuine wealth to be proud of. The sculpture encapsulates this in its sail-like form, colours and detail. I hope it will help people to imagine how brave their ancestors were.”

Coralie’s research with the Chesterfield Canal Trust uncovered the story of these unique vessels, which were pulled by horses and fitted with sails. They were the only boats on the canal capable of sailing out to sea, and their legacy continues to inspire local pride. The sculpture’s sail-like form will incorporate mosaic designs inspired by local wildlife, leaf veins, and natural structures, encouraging residents to explore and appreciate the biodiversity of the Staveley Canal.

The project has involved extensive engagement with local residents and schools. Coralie has hosted creative workshops with pupils from Staveley Junior School and Netherthorpe School, as well as sessions with community members at Edge Ministries. These workshops helped gather ideas and inspired mosaic artworks that will be featured on the final sculpture.

“I love art, it’s fun, mixing colours, blending. It makes me feel happy and excited,” said one pupil.  Another said, “I thought I wasn’t good at art, but when I look at what I’ve done, I am!”

These contributions will be integrated into the sculpture, ensuring it reflects the voices and creativity of the people who call Staveley home. The final design will use hand-cut mosaic techniques to feature local flora and fauna alongside mini artworks created by pupils, complementing Coralie’s work.

Animate Chesterfield is a public art initiative delivered by Beam in partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council. It places creativity and community at the heart of regeneration projects in Chesterfield and Staveley. Funding for the sculpture was secured through planning agreements under the council’s percent for art scheme, which continues on a voluntary basis.

“This sculpture is a celebration of Staveley’s heritage and its vibrant community,” said Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council. “It’s a powerful example of how art can bring people together and create a lasting sense of pride in place.”

The sculpture is expected to be installed later this year. Residents are encouraged to follow its progress and explore the stories and wildlife that inspired its creation.

Learn more about Animate Chesterfield at: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/animate

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure

Little Castle reopens as Woodie’s following magical makeover

A Chesterfield pub has revealed its new look following refurbishment. The Little Castle, located in Markham Vale, is now known as Woodie’s, a new family-friendly concept from Marston’s.

The transformation features a woodland-themed den with games, crafts, discos, karaoke and quizzes. Meanwhile, outside, kids can enjoy a brand-new play area while parents relax nearby with a drink or meal.

The Little Castle reopened its doors last week as Woodie’s. During opening weekend, locals shared their favourite memories of The Little Castle in exchange for a free pint. The team now displays these stories on a memory wall, keen for the community to play a part in the pub’s next chapter.

Sarah Barker, a Community Relationship Fundraiser for Ashgate Hospice, joined General Manager, Sara Hargreaves to pour the first pint. Woodie’s chose Sarah as The Little Castle’s community hero for all the work she does in fundraising for the local area. This includes the charity’s 10km Sparkle Night Walk held each July.

Sara Hargreaves, General Manager at The Little Castle, said: “We’re so excited to be able to welcome all of our locals back to The Little Castle. It was an honour to be joined by [Ashgate Hospice’s] Sarah to pull the first pint; she does so much for our community.”

Ashgate Hospice bear and Sara, manager of Woodie's

The team plans a series of events to encourage local people to visit. Kids can enjoy a two-hour disco every Friday night from 4:00pm. Two-hour craft sessions take place on Saturdays from noon. 

Alongside a menu of pub classics, kids can also visit the Woodie’s Sweet Factory. This self-serve treat bar invites you to swap magic tokens for toppings to create your own sundae.

Furthermore, families can enjoy great value dining throughout the summer. Kids eat for just £1 every day, and free every Wednesday.

Discover more ideas for eating out in Chesterfield

Tree hiding den against wall in a room of children's tables and chairs

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure, Stay, Summer

Most affordable market town to live in the East Midlands

Chesterfield has been identified as the most affordable market town to live in the East Midlands according to a survey by Lloyds Bank.

The town has been ranked the second most affordable market town in England for first-time buyers and fifth across all buyers.

In Chesterfield, first-time buyers paid on average £198,054 for their home, while the average for all house purchases was £248,658.   The survey tracks the cost of houses in 116 market towns in England using house price data from the Halifax.

Andrew Asaam, Homes Director, Lloyds said, “It’s no wonder market towns have stood the test of time with home-buyers, whether people are stepping onto the first rung of the housing ladder, or are making a move to their next home.  These charming locations are filled with historic landmarks and architecture, quaint charm and community spirit, offering a calmer pace of life, often within the reaches of bigger towns and cities.”

Recently named one of the happiest places to live by The Guardian, the historic Derbyshire market town is drawing attention for all the right reasons.

Chesterfield has also been 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 consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

Stacey Davies-Bowler, Managing Director of Pinewood Property Estates, sees the town’s regeneration as a model for sustainable, community-led growth.

“I’ve already seen a shift in the types of properties people require.  Buyers and renters want more than just a home; they want neighbourhoods that offer lifestyle, connectivity, and value. With renewed investment, we can expect smarter housing developments that blend design, sustainability, and affordability.”

More new homes are on the way, including a new £78 million scheme by Honey Homes, and regeneration projects like the Staveley Corridor, Chesterfield Waterside, and Spire Neighbourhood.

Ryan Wilkes, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “We’re very pleased to see Chesterfield gaining further recognition as a great place to live.  “If you’re looking to live in an area which blends a strong heritage with strong local amenities within easy reach, Chesterfield is a place that you’ll be proud to call home.”

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

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

New campaign promotes Derbyshire as a top value destination

‘Summer is a Big Deal’, is a new campaign celebrating everything that makes summer in Derbyshire unforgettable. Running from July to September, it champions the county as a great value summer destination, promoting it as accessible, affordable, and full of enriching experiences for all ages.

Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby have developed the campaign which highlights family fun and local festivals to unbeatable deals on days out, dining, and overnight stays, the campaign invites visitors and residents alike to make the most of the season closer to home.

At the heart of the campaign is a call to discover Derbyshire’s standout attractions – from dramatic castles and spectacular show caverns to grand stately homes, vibrant cultural venues, and world-class heritage sites.

By showcasing the wide range of affordable attractions and activities available across the county, the campaign demonstrates how Derbyshire delivers exceptional value without compromising on quality or enjoyment, encouraging visitors to make smart use of their time and money while supporting local businesses.

The campaign includes:

  • Exclusive Offers – Special summer deals from local businesses on food, accommodation, attractions, and events.
  • Events & Experiences – Promotion of family-friendly events, festivals and experiences that highlight Derbyshire’s rich cultural offer.
  • Car-Free Itineraries – Easy-to-follow itineraries and green discount schemes to encourage visitors to travel by train or bus and discover more of the region without a car.
  • Digital Promotion – Targeted digital and social media adverts, featuring high-impact advertising at major railway stations such as Manchester Piccadilly, Birmingham New Street, and Sheffield.

The ‘Summer is a Big Deal’ campaign supports Visit Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby LVEP’s core aims of increasing visitor spend, encouraging overnight stays, and promoting sustainable and accessible visits across the region.

To explore what’s on and take advantage of summer deals, visit www.visitpeakdistrict.com/bigdeal.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “We know people are looking for quality experiences that offer great value and Derbyshire delivers exactly that. From family-friendly attractions to vibrant festivals and hands-on experiences, ‘Summer is a Big Deal’ captures the spirit of the season and reinforces the message that unforgettable summer adventures can be found right here on our doorstep.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “It’s the perfect time to explore the Peak District and wider Derbyshire to experience everything it has to offer: city breaks, heritage experiences, and the stunning natural environment. This is why I am so focused on strengthening the visitor economy in the region, investing in assets and infrastructure to create jobs which power these experiences, and partners like Visit Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby are critical to achieving this.”

The campaign is funded by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund. Supporting the visitor economy is a key strategic aim of the authority, which recognises the sector as an important driver of local economic growth and job creation.

The visitor economy is worth £2.89 billion to the Peak District and Derbyshire, supporting approximately 30,000 jobs and driving prosperity across local communities.

By investing in campaigns like this through the Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby LVEP, EMCCA is delivering on its visitor economy strategy to raise the profile of the region’s tourism sector while bolstering the East Midlands’ long-term appeal as a must-visit destination.

In Chesterfield there is an exciting programme of events and activities this summer.

Local blogger Mollie Scott has shared her favourite things to do and personal recommendations for a family-friendly weekend in Chesterfield. Check it out at https://lovelylocalindie.com/2025/06/17/family-friendly-chesterfield/

Feel inspired by exploring adventures, experiences and days out.  Make the most of a packed line-up of festivals, family-friendly events, and heritage experiences.

Head to www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer for more inspiration.

Explore this summer in Chesterfield

Posted in Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

New Asian-inspired eatery ‘Pluto’ brings fresh flavour to Chesterfield town centre

Chesterfield’s food scene has a new addition with the arrival of Pluto, an independent business bringing authentic Asian street snacks and desserts to the heart of the town centre.

Founded by Stanley Chan, Pluto opened its doors with a mission to deliver joy, discovery, and health through food. From fluffy Japanese cheesecakes and colourful fruit sandwiches to crispy Taiwanese fried chicken and bubble tea, Pluto offers a fresh and exciting experience.

Stanley said: “Food has always been in my blood. My parents and extended family have worked in the food business for many years, and I grew up surrounded by the warmth, creativity, and care that goes into preparing meals. That passion stayed with me, and in 2010, I started my first venture, an online shop called Snacknsnack.com, which focused on selling Japanese snacks.

Now, Pluto is the next chapter in my journey, a space where I want to share the happiness that food can bring. Our concept is simple: joy, discovery, and health through food. We bring popular and authentic Asian street snacks and desserts to the heart of Chesterfield, giving people a chance to experience something new and delicious.”

Pluto’s arrival is a welcome addition to Chesterfield’s growing independent food and drink scene, adding further diversity to the town centre. Stanley chose Chesterfield for its strong sense of community and openness to new ideas.

“Chesterfield immediately felt like home. It’s a town with a strong sense of community and a real appreciation for local, independent businesses. What stood out to me was the vibrancy of the people here, friendly, curious, and open to trying something different.”

Dominic Staniforth, Board Member of Destination Chesterfield, commented: “Pluto is a fantastic example of the kind of independent business that makes Chesterfield special. It adds something different to the town centre and reflects the growing appetite for diverse food experiences.”

With a menu inspired by the street food culture of Japan, Taiwan, and Korea, Pluto offers something different for Chesterfield. Its playful approach to food and focus on quality ingredients have already caught the attention of customers.

As part of the town’s growing independent scene, Pluto adds a new layer of variety to the high street and gives people another reason to explore what Chesterfield has to offer.

Pluto is located on low payment adjacent to New Square.  Discover more on their facebook page.

Check out some other tasty ideas of places to eat in Chesterfield.

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

Winners of Chesterfield’s Best Bar None 2025 awards crowned

The ‘best’ in Chesterfield have been crowned at the annual Best Bar None 2025 Awards, an event that celebrates positive steps licensed venues are taking to improve nighttime safety.

Sponsored by Global Brands and Gough and Kelly, the annual Best Bar None awards took place at the SMH Group Stadium on Wednesday, 23 July, where more than 20 venues from across the borough were recognised for their commitment to creating a safer night out.

A total of 27 licensed premises picked up their Best Bar None accreditation, including: Apartment, Aruba, Association, Beach and Groove, Brampton Social, Bulls Head, Chandlers, Chesterfield Arms, Chesterfield Football Club, Crown and Anchor, Crown and Cushion, Derby Tup, Dirty Habit, Donkey Derby, Einstein’s, GAS Bar, Holme Hall Inn, Junction Bar, Lockoford Inn, Original Gravity, Portland Hotel, Rose and Crown, Rosie O’Learys, Spa Lane Vaults, Star Inn, Winding Wheel and Ye Royal Oak (Shambles).

As well as the Best Bar None accreditation awards, five special awards were up for grabs on the night. The winners of each category are:

Best managed venue

Winner: Portland Hotel

Runners up: Donkey Derby, The Winding Wheel Theatre

Best tenanted venue

Winner: Rose & Crown

Runners up: Derby Tup, Chesterfield Arms

Best independent venue:

Winner: Einstein’s

Runner up: Association, Chandlers

People’s Choice award (as voted by members of the public ):

Winner: Chandlers

Overall winner

Winner: Chesterfield Football Club

Runner up: Einsteins, Rose & Crown

The Best Bar None scheme, supported by the Home Office and drinks industry, was initially launched in the town in 2024 by Chesterfield Borough Council, in partnership with Best Bar None, Chesterfield Pubwatch and Derbyshire Constabulary with the aim of reducing alcohol-related crime and providing a safer night out for everyone.

The scheme is designed to build positive relationships between the licensed trade, police and local authorities and also aims to champion improvements in the way venues are managed and encourage best practice to be shared.

Since its launch, Chesterfield Borough Council has expanded the scheme and now invites all licensed premises from all across the borough to register for Best Bar None accreditation.

Those that apply will be assessed against a set of criteria, and successful businesses are invited to the annual awards ceremony to celebrate the achievement of local premises.

More information on the scheme can be found at: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/best-bar-none

Councillor Steve Lismore, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, 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 is helping us to do just that.

“We’re lucky to have so many great bars, pubs and clubs across the town, and it is positive to see so many of them passing their assessment and picking up the Best Bar None accreditation at the awards ceremony. It was a great night to celebrate the fantastic businesses we have on offer across our borough, and we will continue to highlight the work they are doing to ensure we have an attractive nightlife and to keep our town safe for all.”

Jane Randall, Chair of Chesterfield Pubwatch, added: “Chesterfield boasts a fantastic range of pubs, restaurants, bars, and clubs, making it a wonderful place to enjoy an evening out, and we want to make sure everyone feels safe when out and about.

“We are pleased to see so many local businesses coming together and picking up their Best Bar None accreditation again-it does show how serious we all are to making sure everyone can enjoy themselves safely on a night out.”

Other licensed businesses from across the borough are also being encouraged to sign up for the Best Bar None scheme. They can find out more and sign up by contacting the council’s licensing team via email: glenn.holden@chesterfield.gov.uk or by calling 01246 345230.

Check out ideas for where to eat and drink in Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure

Family business expands at Chesterfield Market Hall

A family business is expanding into a larger unit in the town’s historic Market Hall, marking a new chapter in its growth.

Cosmetic Company Outlet, founded in 2010 as an online retailer, opened its first physical shop in Chesterfield’s Market Hall in December 2024. The business, now run by Dominic Kerry, has built a loyal customer base by offering top-brand cosmetics at discounted prices. After a successful first year, the business is now moving to a larger unit on the outside of the Market Hall, opposite the Old Post Office and next to Magnolia Barbers.

Dominic Kerry said: “Opening in the Market Hall had been on my mind for a while, and we finally took the leap at the end of 2024. The challenge was always whether we could keep our competitive online prices while covering the costs of a physical shop. Thankfully, the people of Chesterfield have really supported us. They’ve shown that they value local, family-run businesses.”

The new shop is three times the size of the original unit. As the business has grown, so has its product range, creating a need for more space. Customers have travelled from across the region, often drawn by word-of-mouth recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues

Inside Cosmetic Company Outlet

Dominic explained. “We’ve had people coming in every week because someone they know told them about us. That kind of support is priceless.”

Support from the local community and fellow traders has played a key role in the business’s success. Dominic also praised the Market Hall management team for their ongoing help and encouragement.

“The Market Hall team have been brilliant. They’ve supported us every step of the way, and we’re excited to welcome both new and returning customers to our new space.”

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy at Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It is always a pleasure to welcome businesses into the Market Hall and to see them grow. With the works planned through our Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project, a strong future lies ahead for the Market Hall and the Town Centre. Businesses like Cosmetic Company Outlet are helping to shape that future and bring new energy to our town centre.”

Chesterfield’s location, community spirit, and ongoing investment in the town centre have all contributed to the business’s growth. For Dominic, the decision to grow in Chesterfield was a natural one.

“We’re a Chesterfield family through and through. Our ancestors have traded in the town for generations in everything from confectionery to printing. The regeneration of the Market Square feels like a turning point for the town’s future.”

Dominic hopes to contribute to the town’s vibrancy by offering a personal, independent alternative to big chain stores.

“We want to give people a reason to shop local. Independent traders like us can offer the kind of personal service that people say they miss. If we can help keep people shopping in Chesterfield, then we’re doing our bit for the town.”

Dominic Staniforth, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “Chesterfield is a town full of wonderful people and organisations that share a common purpose to make it even better, a place to live, work, invest and visit. It’s fantastic to see businesses like Cosmetic Company Outlet growing and contributing to the vibrancy of our town centre.”

Find out more about shopping in Chesterfield.

Discover more about commercial property in Chesterfield Town Centre 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Leisure, Property and Construction

Chesterfield’s green spaces shine with nine Green Flag Awards

Chesterfield continues to prove its commitment to quality of life, community wellbeing, and environmental excellence, securing nine Green Flag Awards. These awards reinforce Chesterfield’s reputation as a family-friendly place to live in Derbyshire.

The prestigious Green Flag Awards, managed by Keep Britain Tidy, are the international benchmark for well-managed parks and green spaces. They recognise locations that are safe, welcoming, well-maintained, and environmentally sustainable. For families seeking fresh air, nature, and safe outdoor spaces, Chesterfield continues to deliver.

This year marks a record for Chesterfield. Stand Road Park received its first-ever Green Flag led by Chesterfield Borough Council and the Friends of Stand Road Park. Enhancements included reinstated footpaths, a restored wetland area, new planters, and bug hotels to support biodiversity. Looking ahead, the council plans to extend woodland trails, plant wildflowers, and continue its wetland restoration efforts.

Seven other parks retained their Green Flag status, including Queen’s Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, Poolsbrook Country Park, King George V Park in Staveley, Eastwood Park in Hasland, and Monkey Park. These spaces offer families and residents a wide range of outdoor experiences, from peaceful walks to active play.

Councillor Steve Lismore, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “We have some incredible parks and green spaces across our borough, and it is fantastic that we have been awarded a record number of Green Flags this year. Providing high-quality green spaces is key to supporting nature in our borough, but also helps promote health and wellbeing and contributes to ensuring that Chesterfield is a great place to live and raise a family.”

Adding to the borough’s success, Hollingwood Hub, home of the Chesterfield Canal Trust, celebrates its ninth consecutive Green Flag Award. The site features a beautiful garden, visitor centre, café, and access to canal-side activities, including boat trips and paddlesports. It’s a popular destination for families and visitors alike.

Jim Bower, who leads the Trust’s Gardening Team, said: “We are delighted to be awarded a Green Flag again. We get lots of appreciative comments from many members of the public.”

The Guardian includes Chesterfield in an article as one of the happiest places to live. Eurocell, in their 2024 study, highlight Chesterfield as the UK’s best town for access to green spaces. Its access to nature, strong community spirit, and investment in public spaces all contribute to this reputation. For families, the town offers a safe environment with numerous opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

The council’s Parks, Open Spaces and Play Delivery Plan outlines over £1 million in investment to enhance spaces. This long-term vision ensures that residents and visitors of all ages can enjoy safe, inclusive, and inspiring outdoor spaces.

Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, said: “Quality parks and green spaces like the Hub make the country a healthier place to live and work in, and a stronger place in which to invest. Crucially, Hollingwood Hub is a vital green space for communities in Chesterfield to enjoy nature, and it is a free and safe space for families to socialise.”

Destination Chesterfield Board Member, Ryan Wilkes, said: “If you’re looking to live in an area which blends a strong heritage with strong local amenities within easy reach, Chesterfield is a place that you’ll be proud to call home and that’s without mentioning the abundance of picturesque outdoor spaces on our doorstep!”

Whether it’s a peaceful walk through Queen’s Park, a family day out at Poolsbrook, or a canal-side coffee at Hollingwood Hub, Chesterfield’s green spaces are more than just parks; they’re places where people connect, relax, and thrive.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, LeisureTagged in , , , , , ,