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New growth strategy to drive investment, skills and growth in Chesterfield

Chesterfield Borough Council has approved a new four-year growth strategy that will help attract investment, strengthen skills, enhance our town centre and create new opportunities for businesses and residents.

The Growth Strategy 2026-2030 sets out a long-term vision to ensure Chesterfield remains a thriving, resilient and forward-looking borough, building on the success of previous economic growth programmes.

Approved at a meeting of full council on Wednesday, 15th July, 2026 the strategy outlines how the council will work alongside businesses, education providers and regional partners to support economic growth while ensuring local people benefit from new opportunities.

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

“This strategy will help ensure that our borough remains a thriving place to live and work but it also sets out our commitment to delivering inclusive growth so that everyone in our community can share in the benefits of a growing economy. Whether it is working with our partners to enhance skills provision for local people or attracting new businesses and investment to our borough, we want our economy to provide everyone with the chance to build a fantastic life in Chesterfield.

“Through this strategy we are building on our success – we have seen thousands of jobs created, new businesses move into the borough and record levels of investment by both the private and public sector. We want this trend to continue, and we will work with our partners to ensure we can achieve even more for our communities.

“We are an ambitious borough and that is reflected throughout this strategy, but our key aim is to unlock our potential to assert Chesterfield’s role as a regional driver of economic growth.”

People walking through Chesterfield Market

Five priorities for future growth

The strategy identifies five priorities that will guide economic growth over the next four years:

  • Help businesses grow and attract new investment.
  • Build infrastructure that supports employment and housing growth.
  • Strengthen the character and vibrancy of Chesterfield’s town centres.
  • Develop Chesterfield’s role as a visitor destination and gateway to the surrounding area.
  • Ensure local people have the skills needed to progress in the labour market and benefit from future employment opportunities.

To deliver these ambitions, the council will continue working with businesses and skills providers to improve access to training and employment support. It also commits to initiatives such as local labour clauses on major planning applications, helping local communities benefit directly from new developments.

The strategy also builds on major regeneration projects, including Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield, by supporting more events in the town centre, continuing investment in public spaces and working with Chesterfield Town Board, part of the Government’s Pride in Place programme, and the East Midlands Combined County Authority to unlock new opportunities such as the East Midlands Investment Zone.

Other major projects highlighted within the strategy include the Staveley Growth Corridor, the reopening of the Barrow Hill Line, the Staveley Vision Masterplan and the Chesterfield Station Masterplan.

To discover more on what makes Chesterfield a great place to live, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living

For more information and to read the full Growth Strategy 2026–2030, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/regeneration-and-economic-growth/chesterfields-growth-strategy

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

UK Shared Prosperity Fund helps local communities and businesses thrive

Chesterfield Borough Council and its partners are celebrating the lasting impact of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), which has brought £3.793 million of investment into projects supporting communities, businesses and residents across our borough since 2022.

Working with organisations from the public, private, business, community and voluntary sectors, the council secured an initial £2.693 million through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in spring 2022 to deliver priority projects between December 2022 and March 2025. The programme was later extended to March 2026, with a further £1.1 million awarded.

As the lead authority for delivery, Chesterfield Borough Council established a UKSPF Partnership Board, bringing together organisations from across our borough to help shape and deliver projects that respond to local needs.

The funding has supported projects under the programme’s three priorities: communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.

Investing in communities, businesses and people

Across Chesterfield, the funding has helped strengthen neighbourhoods, support local organisations and create opportunities for residents of all ages.

Community projects have improved local spaces, encouraged people to become more involved in their neighbourhoods and supported some of our borough’s most deprived communities, helping to build pride, resilience and stronger local connections.

The programme has also helped entrepreneurs and established businesses to start, grow and innovate, creating new opportunities for investment, employment and skills development across the area.

Through people and skills projects, residents have received tailored support to overcome barriers to employment, build confidence and develop the skills needed for future careers.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Chair of the UKSPF Partnership Board, said:

“The UK Shared Prosperity Fund has made a real difference across Chesterfield, helping us to support local businesses, invest in our communities and create new opportunities for residents.

“What has made this programme particularly valuable is the strength of the partnerships behind it, with organisations coming together to deliver practical support and long-term benefits for the borough.

“It was a great privilege to act as Chair of the UKSPF Partnership Board. The power of the partnerships we formed will make a lasting impact on the borough.”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said:

“One of the best things about the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in Chesterfield has been seeing what people can achieve when they work together. Councils, businesses, community organisations and volunteers have turned this investment into practical support and lasting improvements for communities across the borough.

“The funding has helped local businesses grow, supported people to develop new skills, strengthened neighbourhoods and given residents the support they need to move towards work. Behind every project are people who care about their communities and have worked hard to make a positive difference.

“As Mayor, I want to see that spirit of partnership continue. The confidence, relationships and momentum built through this programme has given Chesterfield a strong foundation for the future.”

Since the programme began in 2022, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund has enabled organisations across Chesterfield to deliver projects that support economic growth, strengthen communities and improve opportunities for local people. The partnerships established through the programme are expected to continue creating benefits for the borough long after the funding has come to an end.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund was provided by the UK Government to improve pride in place and increase life chances by investing in communities and place, supporting local businesses, and developing people and skills.

To discover more about investment and regeneration taking place across Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

For more information about the projects delivered through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, visit Chesterfield Borough Council’s UKSPF webpages.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Stay

Tourism awards open to showcase excellence across the East Midlands

Tourism and hospitality businesses across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire are being invited to apply for the Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards 2026/2027, celebrating excellence across the region’s visitor economy.

Applications opened on Monday, 15th June 2026, with businesses able to enter through one of two destination award programmes delivered by the East Midlands’ two VisitEngland-accredited Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs):

Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards – Derbyshire and Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards – Nottinghamshire

The Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards mark an exciting new chapter for tourism recognition in the region, building on the success of the Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby Tourism Awards and Nottinghamshire’s established programme.

Delivered in partnership by Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby and Visit Nottinghamshire, the awards will celebrate outstanding businesses, attractions and experiences from across the East Midlands.

Recognising regional success

The awards highlight the innovation, quality, sustainability and customer experience of our region’s tourism and hospitality sector, with categories spanning accommodation, food and drink, attractions, experiences and accessible tourism.

Businesses from Chesterfield have previously achieved success at the tourism awards, reflecting our town’s growing reputation for quality visitor experiences and its contribution to the wider regional economy.

Winners from each local programme will have the opportunity to progress to the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said:

“The Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby Tourism Awards have a proud track record of recognising the businesses, organisations and individuals that make our destination such a special place to visit.

“The new Visit East Midlands Tourism Awards – Derbyshire build on that success, ensuring Derbyshire continues to benefit from its own dedicated awards programme while gaining greater regional visibility.

“Our visitor economy is home to outstanding accommodation providers, attractions, restaurants and experiences. These awards are an opportunity to showcase that excellence and inspire businesses to continue raising standards for visitors.”

How to apply

Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday, 26th July 2026.

Businesses can find full details on categories, eligibility and how to enter here: Visit Peak District Tourism Awards information

To discover award-winning places to eat and drink in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/2026/05/50-food-and-drink-businesses-to-try-in-chesterfield/

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

Vote for Chesterfield’s best night‑out venue in 2026 awards

Chesterfield is celebrating its vibrant nightlife as the 2026 Best Bar None Awards recognise the town’s best pubs, bars, clubs and restaurants.

Vote for your favourite venue and help celebrate the businesses that go the extra mile to create safer, more welcoming and enjoyable nights out.

The awards take place on Wednesday, 8th July 2026, and will bring together venues from across the borough to celebrate excellence in customer safety, venue management and partnership working.

Ahead of the ceremony, vote in the People’s Choice Award and support the venue you think delivers Chesterfield’s best night out.

Voting closes on Friday, 3rd July 2026.

Supporting safer socialising

Supported nationally by the Home Office and the drinks industry, the Best Bar None scheme launched in Chesterfield in 2023. Chesterfield Borough Council delivers the scheme locally in partnership with Chesterfield Pubwatch, Derbyshire Constabulary and Best Bar None.

The initiative promotes collaboration between licensed venues, police and the local authority, helping to raise standards and share best practice.

Recognising excellence across the sector

There will also be five more special awards up for grabs on the evening, chosen as part of the accreditation assessment process.

Together, these awards highlight the quality and diversity of Chesterfield’s hospitality sector and reinforce the town’s reputation as a welcoming, safe place to enjoy a night out.

Ahead of the awards, Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said:

“We’re lucky to have so many great bars, clubs, pubs and restaurants in Chesterfield and those that are signed up to the Best Bar None scheme are all playing a part to ensure everyone can feel safe when socialising in the borough.

“We’re looking forward to celebrating our accredited venues at the Best Bar None awards on 8th July, and we want to hear from you too, so make sure you vote for your favourite venue to win the People’s Choice Award 2026.”

Get involved

Support your favourite venue and celebrate the people and businesses that help make Chesterfield’s nightlife welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.

Vote for your favourite venue by visiting: https://chesterfieldboroughcouncil.welcomesyourfeedback.net/s/dtyqxz

This summer, Chesterfield comes alive with flavour, colour and culture. Taste global cuisines at town centre festivals or explore our independent restaurants, pubs and bars: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/ 

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

University of Derby named UK’s top university in 2027 student rankings

The University of Derby has been named UK University of the Year in the 2027 Uni Compare rankings, based on reviews from more than 24,000 students across the country.

The university climbed six places to secure the top position in the 2027 league table, which evaluated 323 institutions across the UK. It also ranked first for employability, second for accommodation and second for course quality.

Building on this success, it is expanding its presence in Chesterfield, with new courses at its St Helena Campus in business, sport and nursing, including foundation year routes, to support local skills and future workforce needs.

The results highlight the institution’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality education and strong career outcomes for students.

A total of 97% of students who submitted reviews said they would recommend the university to a friend, reflecting consistently high levels of student satisfaction.

The Uni Compare rankings are based on independent data and feedback from current and former students, assessing key aspects of university life including accommodation, course quality, employability and social experience. The rankings aim to give prospective students a clear and honest comparison of institutions ahead of starting university.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Derby, said:

“To be named the UK’s best university by students is an exceptional achievement and one we are immensely proud of because it comes directly from those who know us best.

“This recognition demonstrates the value students place on their experience at Derby and the increased social capital they gain. That is one of the strongest endorsements any university can receive.”

The university delivers teaching excellence through an industry-focused approach, with courses ranging from foundation level to postgraduate study and research.

It has further strengthened its links with business and industry through the launch of its Chancellor’s Entrepreneurs’ Club, delivered in collaboration with entrepreneur Theo Paphitis and the university’s Chancellor William Cavendish, Chair of the Devonshire Group. The initiative gives students direct access to influential business leaders and mentors.

Students also benefit from links with leading global organisations, including Google, Amazon, Rolls-Royce, Toyota and the NHS.

To find out more about learning and higher education opportunities in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/skills-and-training-opportunities/

The University of Derby and Devonshire Group are two of over 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 Business, Development, Home, Skills, Stay

Chesterfield housebuilder drives growth with three new Derbyshire developments

Chesterfield-based Stancliffe Homes is continuing its regional growth with three new residential developments in Wingerworth, Bolsover and Darley Dale.

The company based at Markham Vale Environment Centre, which recently secured a prestigious five-star rating from the Home Builders Federation for the second consecutive year, is continuing to invest in high-quality, energy-efficient homes while supporting the growth of communities across our region.

New homes launched in Wingerworth

Stancliffe Homes has officially opened the show home at its Kingswood Park development in Wingerworth. The exclusive scheme comprises 17 stone-built bungalows designed specifically for the over-55s market.

Each home has been built with sustainability in mind, featuring air-source heat pumps, solar PV panels and electric vehicle charging points as standard. The development has already proven highly popular, with all homes reserved before the show home opened.

Lynne Siddons, Sales Manager at Stancliffe Homes, said:

“It’s fantastic to have all our homes on-site reserved before the show home even opened. Bungalows have long been a popular choice for those looking to future-proof their living arrangements. There is evidently a very strong demand for modern, light and highly energy-efficient single-storey homes.”

Major investment in Bolsover

Stancliffe Homes is also playing a key role in the delivery of the Bolsover North masterplan, one of the area’s most significant housing and infrastructure projects.

Working alongside Strata and Persimmon Homes, the developer will deliver 105 of the 547 homes planned as part of the wider scheme.

The project includes 17 acres of public green space, a new town park and land earmarked for a future primary school and care facility, helping to create a sustainable community for future generations.

Sam Jones, Director of Stancliffe Homes, said:

“We feel a strong connection to Bolsover and its future. The district is brimming with potential, and being involved in a project of this scale allows us to contribute to the town’s wider infrastructure while staying true to our design-led approach. This is a pivotal period of growth for us, and we remain focused on delivering homes that both we and the local community can be proud of.”

New development underway in the Derbyshire Dales

Meanwhile, construction has begun on Stancliffe Homes’ latest development, Stonebridge Walk in Darley Dale.

The scheme will feature homes built entirely from natural stone and offer a range of two to five-bedroom properties. Designed to reflect the company’s commitment to quality craftsmanship, the development will combine traditional materials with modern specifications and energy-efficient features.

Supporting sustainable growth

Across all three developments, Stancliffe Homes is continuing its commitment to sustainable housebuilding by incorporating renewable technologies and modern construction methods into its homes.

By delivering highly energy-efficient properties, many of which achieve A-rated EPCs, the Chesterfield-based developer is helping to meet demand for lower-carbon housing while contributing to the growth of communities across Derbyshire.

The latest developments represent another milestone in Stancliffe Homes’ growth story, reinforcing the company’s reputation for delivering high-quality homes while supporting investment and regeneration across the region.

Find more places to live in and around Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

Posted in Development, Home, Stay

Chesterfield welcomes growing dessert business Rassam’s Creamery

Rassam’s Creamery has opened a new store in Chesterfield, bringing its popular range of desserts, ice creams and sweet treats to our town.

The growing dessert brand officially welcomed customers to its new venue at 359 Sheffield Rd, Whittington Moor, on Friday, 5th June 2026. The first 50 visitors even received a free dessert as part of the launch celebrations.

Originally established in Sheffield, Rassam’s Creamery has built a strong reputation for its family-friendly dining experience and extensive dessert menu, making it a popular choice for a sweet treat.

Visitors can enjoy freshly made waffles, crepes, ice creams and milkshakes, alongside traditional favourites including coconut jam sponge, apple crumble and sticky toffee pudding.

Plus, many of the desserts are even delivered by their robot assistants, where waiting staff out on the floor can quickly serve dishes up. A convenient boost for waiting staff and faster service for customers.

The brand has expanded steadily in recent years, opening multiple stores across Sheffield as well as in Manchester, Liverpool and Kenya.

The opening event attracted a strong response from visitors, with queues forming outside the store as families, young people and dessert lovers came to support the new business.

Chief Financial Officer, Anise Ahmed, Rassam’s Creamery, said:

“The opening evening went really well, and we were very pleased with the turnout. We had queues outside the store, which was amazing to see, and the response from the Chesterfield community was really positive.

Chesterfield is a brilliant town with a strong local community, and we hope the store becomes a popular destination for families, young people and dessert lovers.”

To discover more places to eat and drink in Chesterfield this summer, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

Posted in Home, Leisure, Stay, Summer, Visiting

Chesterfield business leaders highlight quality of life as key to economic growth

Business leaders across Chesterfield say the town’s strong quality of life is helping attract talent, support growth and reinforce its reputation as a leading place to live, work and invest.

Affordability and lifestyle driving opportunity

Chesterfield’s reputation as the East Midlands’ most affordable market town is shaping both lifestyle and economic opportunity.
From accessible housing to lower operational costs, affordability is enabling residents to enjoy a better work-life balance while supporting local business resilience.

Jamie Wajs, Managing Director at Lime Living Estate Agents, explained:

“Affordability plays a major role in quality of life and economic resilience. In Chesterfield, lower living and operating costs help residents enjoy a better work-life balance and make home ownership or raising a family more achievable.”

He added that this balance strengthens the wider economy:

“When affordability is combined with investment and strong local amenities, it makes towns like Chesterfield increasingly attractive for both residents and employers.”

This strength is also reflected in the local property market. Richard Sherwood, Director at Roy Peters Estates, said:

“Despite the Renters’ Rights Bill, potential landlords are still investing in the local market, providing quality homes for local residents and those keen to move to town.”

Katherine Stagg, Managing Director at Stagg Mortgage Services, highlighted the wider benefits for households and businesses:

“Chesterfield’s affordability makes a real difference to day-to-day life. It gives residents breathing space and allows people to enjoy a good standard of living without feeling constantly stretched.

“For local businesses, it means customers have more confidence to plan ahead, invest in their homes and support the high street. It creates a healthier, more balanced local economy.”

Strong community and local connection

Chesterfield’s appeal is also rooted in its strong sense of community and connection, something business leaders say is increasingly valued by employees and entrepreneurs.

The town has been recognised in national studies, including the Rightmove Happy at Home Index, and has been highlighted as one of Britain’s happiest places to live.

Kevin Walker, Founder of Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions, said:

“What I love about Chesterfield is that it still feels like a proper town. People know each other. Businesses talk to each other. If you get involved and support others, you become part of the local fabric quite quickly.”

Ross Watson, General Manager at GRIDSERVE’s Markham Vale Electric Forecourt, added:

“Chesterfield has a natural warmth to it. People look out for each other, and that sense of community shows up in everyday interactions, whether you’re grabbing a coffee, walking through the market or chatting to someone on a trail.”

Access to green space enhancing wellbeing

Access to nature is another defining feature of Chesterfield’s offering, with parks, walking routes, and the nearby Peak District supporting well-being and work-life balance.

The town has been ranked among the UK’s top 20 greenest towns, reinforcing its appeal as a place where residents can easily connect with the outdoors.

Ross Watson highlighted the ease of accessing these spaces:

“From Holmebrook Valley Park to Linacre Reservoirs and the Peak District just up the road, nature is woven into everyday life here.

“The Five Pits Trail is a favourite of mine. Being able to finish work and be out in peaceful surroundings within minutes is something I never take for granted.”

Melanie Archbould, CEO of Cloud-Busting, said this proximity to nature has tangible benefits:

“Being on the doorstep of the Peak District National Park changes how people live. It gives people the chance to switch off, reset and return with a clearer head.”

Summing up the balance, Kevin Walker added:

“You get the benefits of a connected town, but you are never far from somewhere quieter.”

Chesterfield’s blend of affordability, community spirit and access to green space continues to position the town as a compelling destination for businesses, investors and residents.

To discover more about what makes Chesterfield a great place to live and work, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

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

Taste the world in Chesterfield this summer

Chesterfield is set for an exciting summer in 2026, with a packed programme of food festivals, cultural events and family experiences taking place across the borough.

From international street food markets to immersive town centre events and outdoor activities, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy time together and discover something new.

These experiences are showcased on the Summer in Chesterfield website to encourage visitors and residents to make the most of the season. The programme celebrates global culture, with the return of much-loved events like Peddler Market and the Chesterfield Children’s Festival, alongside new additions, including Chesterfield on Safari and the Chesterfield Steampunk Weekend.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy, said:

“We’ve got something for everyone to experience this summer, from sampling fantastic street food and exploring different cultures to spending time with the people you love. Start planning your summer now because we’ve got lots of exciting events that will make it truly unforgettable.”

Andrew Byrne, Destination Chesterfield Chair, added:

“Chesterfield has so much to offer all year round, and the summer sunshine makes it even better. From tasty food and vibrant events to spending time with family and friends, it’s a chance to come together and support our welcoming local businesses.”

Discover family-friendly events and experiences

A male speaking into a microphone to a group of 5-9 year old children at a Junction Arts event

The Chesterfield Children’s Festival returns to Queen’s Park on Saturday, 18th and Sunday, 19th July, celebrating imagination and play with live music, theatre, storytelling, dance, and much more.

Chesterfield Markets will host a series of themed events throughout the summer, creating interactive experiences in the town centre. Highlights include the Steampunk Market Weekend on Saturday, 4th July and Sunday, 5th July, delivered in partnership with Newark Steampunk Society, featuring creative costumes, live entertainment and a colourful parade on the Sunday.

New for this year is Chesterfield on Safari on Saturday, 22nd August, where life-sized animatronic animals and interactive performances will take over the market area. Families can also enjoy an Emergency Services Day on Saturday, 15th August, offering hands-on activities, displays and demonstrations showcasing the work of local emergency services.

At Barrow Hill Roundhouse, visitors can explore the DPS Model Railway Show on Saturday, 11th and Sunday, 12th July, and Bricks in the Roundhouse on Saturday, 29th and Sunday, 30th August, bringing impressive Lego creations and interactive activities to the unique heritage venue.

The season will round off with the Tapton Lock Festival on Saturday, 5th September, set alongside the canal, featuring live performances, creative workshops and outdoor activities for all ages.

Alongside these events, visitors can enjoy Chesterfield’s outdoor attractions throughout the summer, including paddle sports and boat trips along the Chesterfield Canal, miniature train rides in Queen’s Park and guided tours of the iconic Crooked Spire.

Taste the world in Chesterfield

The batch house

Chesterfield’s food and drink offer takes centre stage this summer, with a series of festivals celebrating global flavours and local produce.

The Chesterfield Food Festival launches the programme on Sunday, 7th June, bringing together a wide selection of street food, artisan produce and speciality drinks.

Later in June, the International Market will fill the town centre with traders from Friday, 19th to Sunday, 21st June, offering foods and goods from around the world, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors to explore.

The popular Peddler Market returns twice over the summer – in June and August – combining street food, craft drinks, independent traders and live music in a relaxed, social setting.

On Saturday 1st and Sunday, 2nd August, the Great Chesterfield Feast will showcase a diverse mix of global cuisine, sweet treats and handmade goods, providing another opportunity to enjoy the town centre.

Visitors can also experience Chesterfield’s independent food and drink scene throughout the season, with brewery tours and historic pub experiences offering a chance to discover local flavours and stories.

The Summer in Chesterfield campaign is brought together by Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield. To fill your summer with flavours and fun in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer

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

New café opens at Chesterfield Library

A new café has opened at Chesterfield Library, adding a welcoming food and drink space at the heart of the town centre.

Nook & Scran by Scrannery opened on Friday 24 April, bringing freshly prepared food, speciality coffee and locally sourced produce to New Beetwell Street. The café offers a relaxed and inviting place for library users, shoppers, theatre audiences and anyone spending time in the town centre.

Licensed to support events held within Chesterfield Library and its theatre, Nook & Scran helps strengthen the venue’s role as a place to meet, learn and connect.

The opening formed part of the county council’s ongoing commitment to the library as a cultural and community hub. An official launch event is scheduled to be held for guests next month.

Derbyshire County Council Leader, Councillor Alan Graves, said:

“We’re delighted to welcome Nook & Scran to Chesterfield Library. Libraries are at the heart of the communities they serve, and this new addition will certainly strengthen that.

“Nook & Scran will be a valuable asset to the library and the wider community – a cosy yet vibrant place for people to meet friends and spend time while enjoying everything the library has to offer.”

“It’s also great to work with a café that values local suppliers and partners with social enterprises.”

Nook & Scran by Scrannery serves speciality coffee from Redemption Roasters, a UK social enterprise that provides training and employment opportunities for prison leavers and people at risk of offending.

Scrannery already operates multiple sites across Derbyshire and Sheffield and is recognised for its commitment to quality, accessibility and responsible employment. The business continues to grow its collection of independent coffee spaces across South Yorkshire and Derbyshire, each designed to bring together quality food, exceptional coffee and a welcoming atmosphere.

Dave King, co-founder and director of Scrannery, said:

“Libraries are evolving community spaces, and we’re delighted to be part of Chesterfield Library’s future. Nook & Scran is designed to complement what the library offers and create a warm, accessible place for people to meet and spend time.”

Kieran Morgan-McGeehan, co-founder and director of Scrannery, added:

“We want this café to feel like it truly belongs to Chesterfield. Using local suppliers, employing people responsibly and partnering with social enterprises like Redemption Roasters all help ensure the café has a positive impact beyond food and drink.”

For more inspiration on places to eat and drink in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/2026/02/50-food-and-drink-businesses-to-try-in-chesterfield

To find out more about Scrannery, visit: nookandscran.scrannery.uk/

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

Two Chesterfield Champions named finalists at Visit England Awards

Two Chesterfield Champions, Peak Edge Hotel and The Tickled Trout, have both been named as finalists in the Visit England Awards for Excellence 2026, recognising their outstanding contribution to England’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Nestled on the edge of the Peak District, Peak Edge Hotel has been shortlisted in the Small Hotel of the Year category. It is a relaxed rural retreat known for its warm hospitality and personal service. The hotel features stylish rooms and an award-winning two AA Rosette Red Lion Restaurant, which focuses on farm-to-table dining using produce from its own Red Tractor-accredited farm.

Mark Thurman, Managing Director, Peak Edge Hotel and Casa Hotel, said:

“We’re absolutely delighted to be named a finalist in the Visit England Awards for Excellence. It means a huge amount to the whole team and reflects the care and consistency that goes into everything we do.

At Peak Edge, our focus is on creating a complete guest experience – from genuine farm-to-plate dining using produce from our own Red Tractor certified Walton Lodge Farm Estate just minutes away, through to the atmosphere, service and overall feel of the hotel. We’re always looking at ways to evolve and improve, while keeping that sense of warmth and authenticity at the heart of it.

To be recognised on a national stage like this is something we’re incredibly proud of, and a great opportunity to showcase the Peak District.”

Peak edge couple

Meanwhile, The Tickled Trout in Barlow, also a two AA rosette restaurant, has been shortlisted in the prestigious Pub of the Year category.

Led by Chef Patron Chris Mapp, the pub is known for its focus on quality, provenance and seasonal cooking, helping to strengthen Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire’s reputation as a leading food and drink destination.

Chris Mapp, Owner of The Tickled Trout in Barlow, said:

“We are absolutely delighted to be named a finalist in the Visit England Awards for Excellence. It is a huge honour to be recognised on a national stage and reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We are incredibly proud to represent Barlow and the wider Chesterfield area.”

The tickled trout

The national awards celebrate the very best in England’s tourism and hospitality industry, recognising businesses that consistently deliver exceptional quality and visitor experience.

The winners of the Visit England Awards for Excellence 2026 will be announced at a national ceremony on Thursday, 11th June 2026, bringing together leading tourism and hospitality businesses from across the country.

To explore more independent places to eat and drink, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/eating-out

Peak Edge Hotel, and The Tickled Trout are two of over 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, Business, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting