Leisure

Chesterfield businesses win big at 2026 Tourism Awards

Our region’s outstanding tourism businesses took centre-stage last week as the winners of the 2026 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards and the Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards were announced at a glittering joint awards ceremony.

Finalists were recognised across 35 award categories, spanning hotels, B&Bs, attractions, pubs, cafés, unique visitor experiences and unsung heroes, showcasing the very best of the local tourism industry.

And there was particular success for Chesterfield and our surrounding area, with a number of local businesses and Chesterfield Champions among those recognised on the night.

In the Festival or Event of the Year category, Celebrating Jane Austen at Chatsworth took Gold, while Chesterfield businesses made their mark across several key categories. The Tickled Trout was awarded Gold for Pub of the Year, and Peak Edge Hotel also secured Gold in the Hotel of the Year category.

Food and drink businesses performed strongly too, with Hackney House Café and Deli awarded Gold in the Café and Tearoom category, while Red Lion Restaurant at Peak Edge Hotel received Silver in the Restaurant of the Year category.

Nominees progressed through a rigorous judging process – including mystery visits and independent expert assessment – before gathering at the ceremony, where Gold, Silver and Bronze winners were announced.

The prestigious event was held at Pride Park Stadium and brought together over 380 guests including industry leaders, innovators and rising stars for a night of recognition and celebration during English Tourism Week (13–22 March).

The region’s two Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs) – Visit Nottinghamshire and Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby – joined forces to deliver the awards ceremony in partnership for the second year, highlighting the sector’s vital £5.25bn contribution to the East Midlands economy.

The awards were held in partnership with VisitEngland, and Gold winners in each core category will now have the opportunity to represent the region at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence in June 2026.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “The Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards provide an inspiring moment to come together and celebrate the passion, innovation and dedication that drive our visitor economy forward. This event is more than an awards ceremony – it’s a showcase of the remarkable businesses, individuals and experiences that contribute £3.58bn in economic value to the local economy.

“By uniting finalists, partners and champions of tourism in the East Midlands under one roof, we’re able to highlight the strength of collaboration in delivering exceptional experiences, boosting local pride and contributing significantly to our economic growth. Congratulations to our worthy winners!”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said:

“The East Midlands Tourism Awards showcase the places and experiences that make our region so special.

“I’m proud to congratulate all of this year’s winners and finalists who are helping to make the East Midlands a destination of choice. Their hard work, creativity and passion not only attract visitors from far and wide, but also support local jobs, businesses and communities.

“Together we are building a stronger visitor economy and making the East Midlands an even better place to live, work and visit.”

For the full list of winners from the Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Awards please visit: https://visitpeakdistrict.com/industry/events/category/tourism-awards

For the full list of winners from the Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards please visit: https://www.visit-nottinghamshire.co.uk/nottinghamshire-tourism-awards/2026-nottinghamshire-tourism-awards-winners

The awards are proudly sponsored by Derbyshire County Football Club, Voltshare, East Midlands Airport, North Notts BID, Fancy Entertainment and Luxbooth.

Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards: The 2026 Winners

Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award:

· Hoe Grange Holidays – Gold

· The Cupola – Silver

· Peak Edge Hotel – Bronze

B&B and Guest House of the Year:

· The Bulls Head, Foolow – Gold

· The Dragon, Willington – Silver

· The Boot, Repton – Bronze

Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year:

· Sandybrook Lodges – Gold

· Hartington Hills – Silver

· Rivendale Lodge Retreat – Bronze

Dog Friendly Business of the Year:

· Rivendale Lodge Retreat – Gold

· Bike & Boot Inns Peak District – Silver

· Thornbridge Estate – Bronze

Experience of the Year:

· Peak Walking Adventures – Gold

· PeakePedals Ltd – Silver

· Buxton Pottery Painting – Bronze

Family Friendly Business of the Year:

· The Children’s Country House at Sudbury – Gold

· Bluebell Dairy Ltd – Silver

· Thornbridge Estate – Bronze

Festival or Event of the Year:

· Celebrating Jane Austen at Chatsworth – Gold

· Buxton Georgian Festival – Silver

· Alstom presents The Greatest Gathering – Bronze

Hotel of the Year:

· Peak Edge Hotel – Gold

· The Peacock at Rowsley – Silver

· Morley Hayes – Bronze

New Tourism Business of the Year:

· Langley Meadows – Gold

· Wild & Other – Silver

· The Torr Vale Tap – Bronze

Pub of the Year:

· The Tickled Trout, Barlow – Gold

· The Boot, Repton – Silver

· The Blind Bull – Bronze

Regenerative Tourism Award:

· Hoe Grange Holidays – Gold

· Wild & Other – Silver

· Morley Hayes – Bronze

Self Catering Accommodation of the Year:

· Darley House, nr Matlock – Gold

· Brosterfield Farm, Foolow – Silver

· The Cupola, Stoney Middleton – Bronze

Taste of the Peak District Derbyshire and Derby Award – Cafes and Tearooms:

· Hackney House Café and Deli, Barlow – Gold

· The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop, Bakewell – Silver

· On the Bridge, New Mills – Bronze

Taste of the Peak District Derbyshire and Derby Award – Restaurants:

· The Garden Room at Wildhive Callow Hall – Gold

· Red Lion Restaurant at Peak Edge Hotel – Silver

· The Peacock at Rowsley – Bronze

Team of the Year Award:

· Buxton Opera House Volunteers – Gold

· Arkwright Society, Cromford Mills – Silver

· The Wheatsheaf Pub & Pantry, Bakewell – Bronze

Tourism Young Achiever Award:

· Grace Medhurst, Yorkshire Bridge Inn – Gold

· Dylan Torr, Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust – Silver

· Melissa Collins, Bluebell Dairy – Bronze

Unsung Hero Award:

· Vivienne Smith, The National Stone Centre – Gold

· David Brown, Hoe Grange Holidays – Silver

· Jamie Parker, The Cupola Café-Bar-Pizza-Grill – Bronze

Visitor Attraction of the Year:

· Denby Pottery Village – Gold

· Bluebell Dairy Ltd – Silver

· National Trust – Calke Abbey – Bronze

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

Chesterfield launches ambitious bid to become UK Town of Culture

Chesterfield Borough Council has announced that in partnership with the independent Chesterfield Town Board, it is entering Chesterfield into the UK Town of Culture competition, celebrating our town’s rich heritage, creative talent, and growing arts and culture scene.

Chesterfield’s bid will champion our town’s unique blend of historic character, culture, and strong community spirit. The competition offers a major opportunity to showcase the borough’s cultural strengths, attract new visitors, and build on recent investment in the borough including the multi-million-pound market regeneration, the refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall project and Animate Public Art Programme. 

The first ever UK Town of Culture competition is a government initiative that is open to small, medium and large towns, with the winner delivering a vibrant cultural programme.

Showcasing towns’ local visions and voices – through new arts venues, performances, and workshops, amongst other things.  The winning town will be awarded £3 million to deliver a six-month cultural programme in 2028. Plus, additionally, the two finalists from their category will each receive £250,000 each to deliver elements of their bid.

Chesterfield is a town with culture at its heart and their application highlights the town’s distinctive cultural identity, shaped by its market-town heritage, industrial past, and vibrant present-day creative community.

The council’s bid will be developed in partnership with the independent Chesterfield Town Board which is responsible for overseeing a £20m investment in the town through the Government’s Pride in Place programme. If invited to the full application stage, people across the borough will be invited to share ideas, stories, and ambitions that reflect Chesterfield’s identity and aspirations.

The vision for the bid focuses on celebrating local creativity, widening access to cultural experiences, and using culture to support wellbeing, economic growth, and pride of place.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield and Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said:

“Chesterfield is a town with a proud history and a bright future. Our cultural offer is growing stronger every year, driven by the passion and creativity of our communities.

“Entering the UK Town of Culture competition is a chance to shine a national spotlight on everything that makes Chesterfield special and to build a legacy that benefits residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”

Emily Bowman, from Junction Arts and board member of the Chesterfield Pride in Place Town Board, said:

“Chesterfield’s cultural scene is full of energy and ambition. This competition is a fantastic opportunity to bring people together, support local creativity, and showcase the town’s potential on a national stage.”

The UK Town of Culture competition will recognise places that demonstrate outstanding cultural ambition, innovation, and community engagement.

For more information and further updates relating to the bid, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk

Posted in Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

Accessible luxury holiday home opens near town centre

Havendale, a new accessible holiday let within walking distance of our town centre, has been opened by Chesterfield Champion and AccessibleUK director Gillian Scotford.

Owners Gillian and Russell Scotford spent two years renovating the property, describing it as a “labour of love” created in memory of their son, Thomas. The aim was simple: To create the kind of accessible luxury they had always wanted, but never found.

As parents of three children, two with severe disabilities, their lived experience has shaped every decision. Years spent searching for suitable accommodation highlighted a gap in the market lead them to create Havendale here in our town.

The bungalow, built from Derbyshire stone, has been architecturally designed with light-filled spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows and roof lights. Inside, there are four bedrooms with Adjustamatic beds and an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, complete with a woodburning stove.

Accessibility has been carefully considered throughout, while recognising that no property can meet every need. Features include pull-down kitchen cabinets, sensory lighting and level access to the garden through wide bifold doors.

The enclosed south-facing garden includes a patio, lawn and barbecue area, offering a quiet space to relax.

Gillian’s background in accessibility spans more than a decade. She founded Accessible Derbyshire in 2012, helping to fund equipment such as all-terrain wheelchairs, sailing boats and climbing harnesses. Through her work with AccessibleUK, she collaborates with organisations including National Trust, Royal Parks and VisitEngland.

Guidance from VisitEngland’s Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Toolkit was used during the renovation, with the aim of meeting the needs of the UK’s 16.8 million disabled people, along with their families and carers.

With one in four households having access requirements, and many trips taken by multi-generational families, the need for inclusive places to stay continues to grow.

The owners say they understand the challenges that can come with travelling with guests who have access requirements, and want Havendale to offer a proper break. They said they want every guest, family member and carer to be able to relax with dignity, from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave.

For availability and to book Havendale, visit: www.sykescottages.co.uk

To discover a range of accommodation in and around Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/accommodation/

 

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

New “Chesterfield Makers” exhibition celebrates creative talent

Ten artists and makers with strong links to Chesterfield will be showcased in a striking new photographic exhibition celebrating our town’s thriving creative community.

Chesterfield Makers will be on display at The Pavements Shopping Centre from 16 March to 17 May 2026, featuring a series of large-scale A0 portraits captured by Derbyshire photographer Emma Croman and commissioned by Junction Arts.

The exhibition highlights the diversity of creative talent in the town, featuring portraits of ten local artists and makers, including community artists Lucie Maycock and Dave Elsom, comic artist and designer Kelly Bond, creative technologist and Board Member of Destination Chesterfield, Ann Fomukong Boden, illustrators Jessica Woodhouse and Tom J Newell, theatre practitioner Carole Copeland, luthier Chris Sheldon, textile designer Andie Cooper, and ceramicist Clare Gage.

Charlotte Chesterfield Makers

Part of the wider Derbyshire Makes Chesterfield programme, the exhibition aims to celebrate our town’s creative industries and inspire the next generation of artists by showing that creative careers can flourish locally.

Rachel Pedley, Event & Project Coordinator at Junction Arts, said:

“Chesterfield Makers is a celebration of the creative sector that we have in the town. We want to show people through this exhibition that creative careers exist locally. Although there is a strong heritage of making in Chesterfield, there’s also an exciting future.

This exhibition highlights just a selection of the amazing makers and artists who live and work here. Emma has captured them beautifully in their place of making. During Derbyshire Makes Chesterfield, we’ll be showcasing even more talented creatives, and everyone is invited to come along and get involved.”

The project has been organised by Junction Arts and funded through Derbyshire Makes, a new programme of cultural events taking place across the county. The initiative celebrates making in all its forms, shining a spotlight on Derbyshire’s extraordinary heritage alongside its vibrant contemporary creative industries.

As part of the programme, Derbyshire Makes Chesterfield will take over our town centre on Saturday 18 April with a free festival celebrating creativity.

The day will be headlined by The Great Chesterfield Make Off, where 40 local artists will create brand-new work live in Chesterfield Market. The market will become a bustling creative hub, giving visitors the chance to watch artists at work, discover new talent and experience the imagination and skill that defines Chesterfield’s arts scene.

Visitors can also take part in hands-on creative workshops and enjoy live street performances from internationally renowned street performer Matt Pang in our town centre.

The exhibition display stands used for Chesterfield Makers have been funded through Animate Chesterfield, a programme of public art linked to regeneration projects across the area. Animate Chesterfield is led by Chesterfield Borough Council and delivered by Beam.

For more information about Derbyshire Makes Chesterfield: https://www.derbyshiremakes.co.uk/chesterfield

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

New ‘makers’ space opens in town centre

An exciting new ‘makers’ space has opened in the heart of our town centre, offering local people a place to unleash their creativity.

Chesterfield Champions, Junction Arts is one of the UK’s longest-established community arts charities, and has taken over a previously disused building on Station Road, transforming it into a dynamic hub featuring studios, workshops, and collaborative work areas for creators, makers, and innovators.

Sections of the building are being sublet to local artists and creative businesses, helping to establish a thriving space where their work can flourish.

Junction Arts

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

“We’re delighted to see this disused building brought back into use in such a positive and creative way. The site is now becoming a home for creative businesses, aligning with the council’s vision to expand the area’s growing creative sector.

“Junction Arts has a long and proud history of working with local communities, and this new space will give residents even more opportunities to learn new skills, collaborate, and express themselves.”

Junction Arts Managing Director, Emily Bowman, said:

“The new space has given us an amazing opportunity to bring together the town’s vibrant creative community, fostering collaboration, co-creation and shared growth. The scale and potential of the new building will allow us to support and strengthen the existing community, while inspiring the next generation of artists and creative businesses.

“This opportunity comes at a particularly significant moment for Junction Arts as we celebrate our 50th anniversary and reflect on the powerful role the arts play in shaping strong, connected communities. Over the next few years, we will develop the space as a hub for creativity, offering workshops and meeting facilities for the arts community and beyond.

“We are excited to begin this next chapter and look forward to welcoming more people to be part of this creative space.”

Current artists and creative businesses that have moved into the building with Junction Arts include writer Annie Littlewood, Sombrero Printmaking, Guitar Technician and Luthier Chris Sheldon, 13 Bends Design, community artist Lucie Maycock, weaver Anna Piper, Growth Activities, Defeye Creative, S40 and S41 Magazine, musician Neil Piper and Kakou Technologies.

Junction Arts is a charity and National Portfolio Organisation, supported using public funding by Arts Council England. To find out more, visit: junctionarts.org

Junction Arts is one of over 200 local champions helping to promote Chesterfield as a place to work, learn, and visit. For more information, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/destination-chesterfield/champions/

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

Entrepreneurs invited to join newly revamped market

Local entrepreneurs are being invited to trade at our newly revamped outdoor market as part of an exciting new campaign.

The regeneration of Chesterfield’s historic market is close to completion, and there has never been a better time to join the vibrant community of traders.

With an introductory rate of just £10 for new traders, fantastic facilities and no long-term contract, the market provides a flexible way for local businesses to start and grow.

The campaign spotlights these benefits across the region, demonstrating how Chesterfield Markets offers a low-risk opportunity for budding entrepreneurs to start a business, grow an existing venture, or connect with new customers.

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

“We already have a fantastic range of well-established traders at Chesterfield Markets, but with work on our regeneration project completing, we want to start the next chapter with more traders offering a wider variety of products.

Our market stalls are some of the most competitively priced in the region, and traders can benefit from new stalls with better facilities. You’ll also have access to support from our experienced markets team and through our trader network.

“We’ve seen some great independent businesses start on Chesterfield Markets before growing and moving into permanent premises around the town centre – now is a fantastic time to try out your retail idea and our market is here to provide the perfect space to do it.”

Encouraging more traders to operate in our town centre will also have a wider positive impact on the local economy and community. A busier, more diverse market attracts greater foot traffic, benefiting not only stallholders but also surrounding shops, cafés, and businesses.
Encouraging more traders to join the market will also support the continued growth of the town centre.

A wider range of stalls will help attract more visitors, and create greater opportunities not only for market traders but also for nearby shops, cafés and other independent businesses.

With a fresh new layout on the main square, this improves visibility for traders based in the centre of the market and helps guide shoppers to all the stalls.

Chesterfield market stall

The introductory rate applies to the first four visits to the general market (Monday, Friday, and Saturday). After these visits, stalls on Monday and Friday are £12.60, and Saturday stalls are £19.70.

On Mondays and Fridays, stalls in Zone A will cost £17.20 and £27.80 on Thursdays and Saturdays. Stalls in Zone B will cost £22.20 on Thursdays and Saturdays and £14.40 on Mondays and Fridays.

To find out more about trading on Chesterfield Markets, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/market-trading

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

A dog’s day out: 10 pawsome adventures around Chesterfield and the peaks

Whether you’re discovering a new trail or sniffing out a puppuccino, Chesterfield and the nearby Peak District offer tail-wagging days out for your dogs.

We’ve rounded up 10 of the best dog-friendly spots – with brunch stops, scenic walks, historic sights and even a ride on an open-top bus.

Looking for more great activities and events across Chesterfield during the summer months? Get all the inspiration you need at: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer

Chesterfield: Town Walks, Canal Cruises and Dog-Friendly Cafés

1. Brunch and Walkies in our town centre and Queen’s Park

Queen's Park

Start the day with brunch at Sorbo Lounge in Chesterfield town centre, where dogs get their own sausage and a bowl of water. Then stroll through Queen’s Park – a Victorian gem with leafy trails, a duck-filled lake, and space to roam.

2. Chesterfield Canal and Puppacinos at the Batch House

Dog friendly day out - a pooch sits at the front of Chesterfield canal boat

Wander along the peaceful Chesterfield Canal, spotting a vast array of wildlife and canal boats. Afterwards, head onto Whittington Moor via Tapton Lock and take a trip to The Batch House for a pint and a puppuccino.

3. Linacre Reservoirs

Linacre Reservoir is an excellent location for dog friendly days out near Chesterfield

A short drive from the centre, Linacre offers cool woodland paths and calm waters – perfect for a dash or a gentle wander. It’s quiet, scenic and ideal for a picnic.

4. Barrow Hill Roundhouse

Train and heritage lovers rejoice! This unique railway museum welcomes well-behaved dogs. Explore historic engines and imagine life on the tracks. Check events and opening times here: barrowhill.org

5. Holmebrook Valley Park

Holmebrook valley park is great for dog friendly days out in Chesterfield

Not far from the town centre, this large park has meadows, ponds, and wide open paths. There’s even a café on-site where dogs are welcome outside – the perfect pitstop for a coffee and a cuddle.

Countryside and Peak District: Trails, Estates and Treats

6. Peak Sightseer Red Route – Chatsworth & Beyond

Hop aboard at Chesterfield Railway Station – dogs ride for free! Stop off at Chatsworth House, where dogs are welcome in the gardens, estate walks and the courtyard shop. Say hello to the sheep and wander riverside trails. Not all indoor shops like the Farm Shop or Garden Centre allow dogs, but there’s outdoor seating. Continue to Monsal Trail for a scenic walk and round off the route in Bakewell for fish and chips by the river.

7. Peak Sightseer Blue Route – Longshaw to Castleton

Peak Sightseer open top bus

Another dog-friendly bus adventure, this route includes Padley Gorge at Longshaw Estate – perfect for a shaded paddle. Stop at Ladybower Reservoir for waterside walks or Castleton for stunning Winnats Pass views. Dogs can join you around Blue John Cavern’s grounds (though not inside the cave itself).

8. Five Pits Trail

Five Pits Trail- Cycling and days out with dogs in Chesterfield

This multi-use trail stretches through country parks and woodland – a great option for longer walks with off-lead moments if your pooch is friendly. Flat, quiet and ideal for an afternoon wander.

9. Hardwick Hall Estate

There’s so much to enjoy around the estate – ancient trees, panoramic views and miles of trails to stretch your legs. Dogs aren’t allowed inside the Hall, but the café has dog-friendly outdoor tables so you can enjoy  quick rest with some food and drink.

10. Peak Village

Peak Village Summer

At Peak Village, dogs get an enthusiastic welcome from staff and fellow shoppers. You can enjoy a meal at Chatsworth Kitchen or Caffe Massarella, both of which welcome well-behaved dogs on leads indoors. Wander the open-air shopping area together, then stretch your legs in the on-site nature reserve. Don’t miss Barks & Co, where your pup can browse coats, toys, and tasty treats.

Ready to plan your pup-powered summer? Discover more dog-friendly ideas and car-free days out: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Celebrate Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Stay, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

East Midlands showcases investment strength at MIPIM 2026

The East Midlands is aiming to strengthen its position on the international investment map as Mayor Claire Ward heads to major global property conference MIPIM.

The Mayor will lead a regional delegation to MIPIM 2026 to promote our regions investment potential. MIPIM is the world’s leading real estate investment event, attracting more than 20,000 delegates from 90 countries.

MIPIM brings together investors, developers and city planners to discuss trends in regional markets, AI, housing, data centres, hospitality, and climate-related challenges.

EMCCA is showcasing two major investment opportunities at the five-day event – Trent Arc and the East Midlands Supercluster.

Trent Arc spans the Derby to Nottingham corridor and the industrial heartland between them. The development could deliver 30,000 homes, 40,000 jobs and 2.7 million sq ft of commercial space, generating £2.4 billion in regional growth.

The Supercluster covers three former power station sites along the River Trent in Nottinghamshire. Cottam, High Marnham and West Burton are being repositioned at the forefront of the UK’s clean energy future, with West Burton home to the UK’s world-leading STEP Fusion prototype power plant, backed by £1.3 billion of Government investment.

The Supercluster will be a global commercial destination, with a discovery centre, sustainable transport and more than 6,500 homes, leveraging its scale and technical expertise in clean energy and industrial innovation.

EMCCA’s Vision for Growth identifies five further spatial development areas that will support an ambitious and investable East Midlands, including the Canal Corridor. The Corridor is highlighted as a key strategic area, with Chesterfield and Staveley positioned to benefit significantly.

For Chesterfield and Staveley, the Canal Corridor represents a major regeneration opportunity, with the potential to deliver 3,900 new homes, 7,800 jobs and £473 million in annual GVA. The restoration and modernisation of the historic canal will create a strategic link between the town, key innovation sites and wider clean‑energy clusters, supporting long‑term economic diversification, improved connectivity and the development of new communities and infrastructure.

The region also has a strong and active market in logistics and light industry, while EMCCA is also actively seeking partners to help deliver new housing and Grade A office space, as well as building the pipeline for the next generation of sectors. Strengths in civil nuclear and defence are internationally recognised, led by Rolls-Royce.

MIPIM will take place at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, France, from 9-13 March.

For more information on the canal corridor and other investments happening in and around Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

 

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

Funding supports Chesterfield Glow Up and regional projects

Thousands of pounds has been awarded to transform dozens of businesses, organisations and projects including Chesterfield glow up, across the East Midlands thanks to our region’s Mayor.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is providing £25.17 million of funding for local investment across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire in 2025/26. This funding, distributed by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), led by Mayor Clare Ward, aims to boost pride in place and increase life chances. The investment will focus on supporting communities and businesses, as well as developing skills for individuals.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “It’s fantastic to see how investment from the UKSPF is making a real difference to communities across the East Midlands.

“UKSPF has been a vital source of local investment and I’m pleased it is continuing this year while government develops its successor. The £25m allocated to the East Midlands will sustain jobs that support community-led services and drive the regeneration of our town and village centres – boosting growth while keeping our places attractive to visitors and investors.”

Recent projects supported by the fund include an arts trail, rural grants and a town centre light show — with the latest event, Chesterfield Glow Up, set to take place this month.

Chesterfield Town Centre celebration –  Funding is helping the town ‘Glow Up’ with a special celebration marking the completion of the multi‑million‑pound transformation of our Chesterfield Markets.

Residents and visitors are invited to come together for an evening event that will illuminate the town centre and welcome back the giant observation wheel.  The event will run on 27–28 March, from 4–8pm each day, featuring entertainment, family‑friendly activities and a light show.

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

“This event is a fantastic way to mark a major milestone in the regeneration of our Market and to welcome people back into a space that has been completely transformed.”

At the heart of the event is Twist and Shout, an immersive projection artwork that will light up the Market Hall.

Other projects across the region include:

  • Amber Valley – Ay Up Me Duck Eight – large decorated duck sculptures have been installed across the four market towns to boost footfall and civic pride, supported by UKSPF.
  • Broxtowe – Creating a Buzz – The Beeston Bee Trail has expanded with six more businesses joining the map and additional prizes, building on the trail’s early success.
  • Newark & Sherwood – Rural Growth – More than £267,000 in UKSPF-backed rural grants has been awarded to support local businesses and community organisations.
  • High Peak – Visitor Engagement £10,000 from the UKSPF is helping Buxton Civic Association enhance visitor interpretation and conservation at Poole’s Cavern and Buxton Country Park.

For more information on Chesterfield Glow Up, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-glow-up

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

Saints Bar in town centre prepares to open next month

One of our town centre’s oldest buildings is set for a dramatic revival as Saints Bar prepares to open its doors by the end of March.

The striking property, which dates back to the 1400s, is being transformed into a new venue that will combine historic character with live music and a welcoming social atmosphere. After years of standing empty, the long-neglected site is now on course to become a vibrant addition to the heart of the town.

The site has undergone months of intensive renovation after standing empty since the Covid-19 pandemic. During that time, it was vandalised and left in an extremely poor condition. The upstairs area had been badly trashed, with smashed doors throughout and graffiti covering the walls.

The refurbishment required a complete strip-out of the interior. The electrics had been entirely removed, meaning the building needed a full rewire. Even the meter had been cut out, forcing the new owners to install a replacement. For the first two months after taking ownership, there was no electricity on site, making progress especially challenging.

Despite the setbacks, work has continued at pace to restore and revitalise the centuries-old building. The focus has been on preserving its historic character while creating a fresh, vibrant venue ready to welcome customers back into the town centre.

With the finishing touches now underway, Saints Bar is looking ahead to opening at the end of March, bringing new energy, live entertainment and a revived sense of community to a long-quiet corner of the town.

The owners say Saints Bar is designed to be more than just another place to drink. Instead, the focus is on the connection between friends, artists, locals and visitors, creating a venue that feels familiar, lively and inclusive.

“The town centre location was a key factor in the decision to open Saints Bar. Its position among other established venues, strong pedestrian access and proximity to the train station make it ideally placed to contribute positively to Chesterfield’s evening economy.”

The drinks offering will include a range of signature cocktails developed exclusively for Saints Bar by an experienced cocktail specialist, alongside classic cocktails, locally sourced beers and ales, and a carefully selected range of mid- to high-end spirits and wines. Plans are also in place to apply for permission to install a kitchen area, allowing the venue to offer a small selection of high-quality food such as artisan pizzas, cheese boards and tapas-style dishes.

Looking ahead, Saints Bar plans to host a variety of themed events and live entertainment, including music-led nights, line dancing, ladies’ nights and murder mystery evenings designed to make the most of the building’s historic character. The team is also considering dedicated evenings for hospitality and bar industry workers, offering discounted rates as a way of supporting others in the sector.

Supporting local businesses is another priority. Saints Bar aims to work with local producers and suppliers wherever possible and is exploring rotating bar lines to showcase a range of regional beers and products.

Early feedback from the community has been very positive, with residents keen to see the historic building brought back into active use. The owners hope Saints Bar will become a well-loved town centre destination, a place that enhances Chesterfield’s night-time offer while celebrating its heritage.

Updates on the progress of Saints Bar can be found on the venue’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com

For more independent bars and restaurants within Chesterfield, please visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk

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

Former Wilko store in town centre set to become 70-unit aparthotel

Chesterfield Borough Council have approved proposals to transform a former Wilko store in our town centre into a new aparthotel complex featuring serviced apartments, retail units, a gym and a business centre.

The vacant Wilko store, located on Vicar Lane and South Street, closed in October 2023 after the retailer entered administration.

Members of Council’s planning committee voted by a majority at a meeting held at the Town Hall on February 23 to approve JBSL Holdings Ltd’s application. The scheme will see the former homeware and hardware store extended and converted into a 70-unit aparthotel.

The development will bring a significant number of accommodation units into the historic core of the town centre, offering a central base for visitors heading to the Peak District National Park.

The plans include a two-storey rooftop extension across most of the building, along with alterations to the existing elevations.  The lower ground floor level, proposals include two retail units, a gym, a business centre.

The ground floor would accommodate two retail units fronting Vicar Lane and nine aparthotel units. A further 21 units are planned for the first floor, 20 on the second floor and another 20 on the third floor.

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