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Local play area welcomes families following major transformation

27th December 2025

Heather Vale Play Area in Hasland, has been transformed with upgraded new equipment. Designed to suit children from ages three to twelve, the play area includes a toddler play unit with steps, slides and a mini climbing net. Along with agility equipment for older children plus sensory panels and ground activities to support inclusive play.

Part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s ambitious parks and play delivery plan, which was launched in 2023, aims to improve play areas across the borough.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Deputy Leader, said:

“We recognise how play areas form an important part of every community in our borough, providing a space for children to develop and build confidence but also creating a place where parents can socialise together.

“Through our parks and play delivery plan we identified the play areas across the borough which were most in need of an upgrade and over the last few years we have been working hard to refurbish these facilities and improve local play spaces.

“I’m delighted that we’ve been able to carry out these works in Hasland before Christmas. I know this will be a great asset for the community to enjoy and we’ve already received some great feedback from local families.

“Creating these spaces helps ensure that Chesterfield is a fantastic borough to live and raise a family and we’ll be investing even more into our play areas over the next few years to ensure that every family can access a welcoming and safe play area in their neighbourhood.”

Continued upgrades are being planned at Barnes Road in Hady and in Duckmanton in the first half of 2026. Further improvements across the borough are also being planned.

The refurbishment of Heather Vale began on site in late November 2025 and is funded through combined council and grant funding. With funding provided from both the Suez communities fund and from East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) from funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Residents who visit are being asked to complete a survey about the upgrade, the short survey will help plan future improvements across the borough and access further grant funding for other play spaces. To complete the survey please visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/heather-vale-play-area

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

Over £500,000 funding awarded to local community groups

20th December 2025

Over £500,000 in grant funding has now been awarded to local community groups and voluntary organisations across Chesterfield, helping local projects make a real difference in the borough.

As part of the Community Grants Fund, launched by Chesterfield Borough Council in 2023, the latest round of funding has seen £75,282 shared between 19 local groups. Since the scheme began, a total of £527,911 has been awarded through 103 successful applications, supporting projects that strengthen neighbourhoods, promote wellbeing, and bring people together.

Already, the grants are helping to deliver projects across the borough, from funding foodbanks and community hubs, to supporting local events and helping people back into work. They are also enabling initiatives that encourage greener, more sustainable choices and reduce the borough’s environmental impact.

The latest organisations to receive funding include:

Barrow Hill Community Trust
Transition Chesterfield
Don Catchment Rivers Trust
St John Ambulance
Friends of Eastwood Park
African Caribbean Community Association
Duckmanton Miners Welfare Centre
Mastin Moor Miners Welfare
Ozbox
b:friend
The Friends of Pearson Park
Chesterfield Foodbank
Parish Centre Stonegravels
Poolsbrook Club Community Committee
Friends of Thistle Park, Brimington
Kakou CIC
Friends of Stand Road Park
Pain Inspired
Community Development Chesterfield

Kakou CIC, one of our Chesterfield Champions, will use the funding to create a kitchen garden for The Rectory Community Pub, helping to bring the community together.

Kakou’s Ann Fomukong-Boden and Destination Chesterfield Board member said:

“We’re absolutely delighted to receive this funding for The Rectory Kitchen Garden Project. This funding means we can turn our pub’s beer garden into something much more, a thriving kitchen garden that not only supports our pub kitchen but also brings the community together.

“Fresh produce grown here will go straight into our meals, while our gardening club will help people connect, learn, and support their wellbeing. It’s a chance to grow food, friendships, and a stronger, more sustainable future for The Rectory and our community.”

Elsewhere, Friends of Thistle Park will be using the grant funding to replace surfacing in the play area that has become worn over time, ensuring that local families can continue to enjoy the much-loved park in Brimington.

The chair of Friends of Thistle Park said:

“We are thrilled to receive this funding, which will make a real difference to the community. The resurfacing will enhance the play area into a space that children can enjoy all year round, and we are grateful to Chesterfield Borough Council for their support.

“We will continue to work towards transforming the park for the benefit of local residents and visitors, and this project marks an important step in their ongoing commitment to improving community facilities.”

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

“We really are lucky to have so many community groups and voluntary organisations here in Chesterfield that can have a huge impact on our local communities – and we’re really proud that we’re able to support them through this funding.

“It has allowed us to support so many groups and organisations that work tirelessly to deliver projects and initiatives and make a real difference to the lives of local people.

“It has been great to hear from the groups about how the funding is being used so far and the impact that it is having on local residents, and I am looking forward to hearing more about how the latest groups and organisations are using the grants to make a difference in our community.”

Funding for the grants scheme was successfully secured from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), together with money raised through the Community Infrastructure Levy Neighbourhood Portion (CIL).

The Community Grants Fund has received £120,500 from East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) from funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Posted in Development, Home, Leisure, Stay

New mural unveiled in town centre

19th December 2025

World-renowned street artist has unveiled a vibrant new mural in the heart of our town centre.

Peachzz drew inspiration from our Chesterfield Market and our borough’s heritage to create the breathtaking artwork, called Local, which covers the entire side of the Pavements Shopping Centre and welcomes visitors as they enter the marketplace.

Local depicts a selection of objects that reflect what can be found on Chesterfield Market, while also referencing local history. Features include a shire horse, which was once used to collect rubbish from the market, a cattle brass referencing the historic cattle market site, and a pomegranate, which features in the Borough crest. The use of hands aims to evoke the idea of trade.

Peachzz said:

“My concept was to have all these ideas and stories that I’ve heard shown through items that I’d bought from the market, so there are loads of these little stories within it, but overall, it aims to support all these small businesses and traders that make up this town.

“The reception has been amazing. We’ve had no end of people coming and stopping us to say hello and telling us how much they like it. It’s been really heartwarming and encouraging when painting in the rain, but also shows the impact that art pieces have on public spaces.”

Peachzz worked with our local community to develop the concept for the mural, hosting a drop-in session on the Market for members of the public to share their ideas and stories, visiting a local school to hear pupils’ ideas, and speaking to market traders about what they felt the mural should include.

The mural was created using masonry paint to establish the market stall background, followed by layers of spray paint to build up the detailed design. Peachzz employed a “doodle grid” technique – a mapping system that allows designs to be accurately scaled onto large walls. The grid acts as a guide for placing each element and colour, ensuring the finished artwork retains its precision and vibrancy at scale.

The new mural is funded through Chesterfield Borough Council’s Animate Chesterfield programme, which will create new artworks and activities throughout the regeneration projects happening in both Chesterfield and Staveley.

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

“This is an exceptional piece of artwork which reflects our town’s history but also helps create a new, vibrant welcome for visitors. The mural is already getting a positive reception, with lots of people visiting the town centre to watch its creation. I know it will be a source of inspiration for many of our residents, and they will enjoy seeing this sight for many years to come.”

@steelcitydronepilot

Peachzz is a contemporary street artist from Sheffield. She discovered spray painting in the forgotten industrial sites of the UK and Europe, channelling her creativity into breathing life into walls.

Her work often explores and celebrates themes of nature, life and community, set against the stark concrete of urban spaces. With each mural, she aims to evoke an emotional response and ensure her work feels rooted in its surroundings.

With a storytelling approach, she creates art that resonates with both local communities and visitors. She is an extremely confident painter of large-scale projects. Her style is expressive, with hints of realism, while experimenting with positive themes and a bold colour palette.

Peachzz has travelled with her work all over Europe and has painted as far away as the USA, Colombia, Mexico and the Middle East.

Her mural Reverie in Sheffield was named the second Best Mural in the World 2024 by Street Art Cities.

Animate Chesterfield is being delivered by Beam, a leading cultural development organisation, in collaboration with Chesterfield Borough Council. The programme has included the appointment of an artist in residence to engage residents and visitors with Chesterfield town centre, a Christmas window trail, and further projects are planned, including the creation of a Heritage Arts Trail, a town centre projection mapping project, and a new sculpture for Staveley town centre.

Communities are at the heart of the programme and will shape, influence and participate throughout, ensuring that it is an authentic celebration of the place.

Funding for the public art project was secured through planning agreements as part of the council’s per cent for art scheme, which was part of the previous Local Plan (and now continues voluntarily). The funding must be used for the delivery of public art.

To find out more about the Animate programme, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/animate

Images by @steelcitydronepilot

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

New energy-efficient homes for local families

16th December 2025

More local families are set to move into brand-new, affordable, and energy-efficient homes in Middlecroft and Staveley, as Chesterfield Borough Council continues to expand its housing supply across the borough, building on Rightmove’s 2025 Happy at Home survey, which named Chesterfield one of the happiest places to live in the East Midlands for the third year in a row.

Earlier this year, the council handed over the keys to four bungalows on Ringwood Avenue and Court Place, and now even more local families will benefit from the completion of a further nine new homes in the area.

The final phase of the project includes four two-bed bungalows on Wensley Way, two two-bedroom houses on Paisley Close, and three two-bedroom houses at Aston Court, all of which will be let to residents on the council’s housing register.

All homes are designed to achieve an A-rated EPC and are equipped with air-source heat pumps to provide hot water and underfloor heating, eliminating the need for gas boilers.

Solar panels have also been installed, designed to generate more energy than the homes are expected to use.

Each property features open-plan kitchens and dining areas, generous storage, and well-proportioned bedrooms. Large windows maximise natural light, while high-quality insulation and energy-efficient installations help create a warm, comfortable, and cost-effective living environment.

Outside, each home has a private garden for children to play and families to enjoy, along with dedicated parking. The bungalows have level access and are designed so lifts or ceiling hoists can be added in the future, allowing tenants to live independently for longer.

Fortem Solutions Ltd has delivered the project.

Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said:

“We’re really pleased that this project is now completed and are ready to hand over the keys so that even more local families can enjoy their new homes.

When planning for these new build homes, we wanted to ensure that we can provide homes that meet the needs of our tenants both now and in the future – providing homes for life. That’s why we’ve designed these bungalows in a way that adaptations, such as installing lifts and hoists, can be installed easily should they be needed in the future which ensures people can live independently in their homes for longer.

All of the homes also have A-rated energy efficiency, meaning that they can keep their homes warm throughout the year, whilst keeping energy bills down.”

Russ Gale – Senior Project Manager at Fortem Solutions Ltd, said:

“Our team has delivered eight adapted bungalows and five houses that are thoughtfully designed to support modern living and future needs. Not only do they look great, but they also provide long-term comfort, accessibility and help to reduce fuel poverty.

To support Chesterfield Borough Council’s net zero targets, we have introduced air source heat pumps, solar panels and underfloor heating. Now all homes have A-rated EPC’s, demonstrating their efficient energy performance.

It has been a privilege to play our part in supporting Chesterfield Borough Council to deliver new homes to residents and, we wish every family many happy years there.”

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

Posted in About Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Property and Construction, Stay

Chesterfield is once again named happiest place to live in the East Midlands

11th December 2025

Chesterfield has been ranked the happiest place to live in the East Midlands by Rightmove’s 2025 Happy at Home survey.

The annual study asks thousands of people across Great Britain how they feel about where they live. This year, more than 19,500 residents took part, sharing what truly contributes to their everyday happiness.

Rightmove found that the factors most strongly linked to a positive sense of wellbeing are the simple things that make daily life easier, safer and more enjoyable. Green spaces continue to be among the most valued features in the index, offering places to relax, exercise and connect with nature. The study also revealed that people living close to a national park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty typically report higher levels of happiness.

Our town continues to stand out as a place where people feel proud to live. Many contributors said that Chesterfield gives them a strong sense of pride, belonging and community. Access to green landscapes remains particularly important, with those living near the Peak District National Park especially likely to report high levels of wellbeing.

Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield Board Member Ryan Wilkes said: “We’re very pleased to see Chesterfield gaining further recognition as a great place to live.”

“As a lifelong resident, it’s fantastic to see our brilliant outdoor spaces, local businesses and community spirit highlighted.

“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!”

Earlier this year, Chesterfield was also named one of the happiest places to live by The Guardian, as well as being 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 also consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

The town is seeing new housing developments and regeneration projects, including the Staveley Corridor, Chesterfield Waterside, and Spire Neighbourhood, which will bring more new homes.

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

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

Discover Peak District adventures from Peak Edge Hotel

9th December 2025

Peak Edge Hotel has announced two new packages designed for visitors seeking active breaks in the Peak District. The family-owned four-star hotel now offers golf breaks in partnership with Stanedge Golf Club and car-free e-bike holidays with PeakePedals. As well as expanding helicopter access for guests.

Stay and Golf Packages

From March, 1^st 2026, guests can book a Stay and Golf package combining overnight accommodation, breakfast, pre-booked tee times at Stanedge Golf Club, and 10% off à la carte dining at the hotel’s Red Lion Restaurant. Stanedge Golf Club is an inclusive 10-hole course with no dress code or handicap requirements, making it ideal for beginners and social players.

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

“Golf is a way to enjoy fresh air, spend time together and have fun without feeling intimidated.”

More information: peakedgehotel.co.uk | stanedgegolfclub.co.uk

Stay and Play E-Bike Holidays

PeakePedals has partnered with Peak Edge Hotel to offer guided and self-guided e-bike tours across the Peak District. Packages include half-day and full-day rides, point-to-point routes with luggage transfers, and inclusive options for mixed-ability groups. Bikes can be delivered to the hotel for convenience.

Andrew Talbot, Co-founder of PeakePedals, said:

“These breaks allow visitors to settle into one base and explore the surrounding scenery at their own pace.”

Peak Edge Hotel’s Red Lion Restaurant holds two AA Rosettes and serves local produce from Walton Lodge Farm, including native-breed beef, Dorset lamb, and free-range eggs.

Find more information about short breaks in Chesterfield on the Stay in Chesterfield website.

Helicopter access extended for hotel guests

Peak Edge Hotel has expanded its helicopter landing capacity, increasing from a small number of landing spots to eight dedicated landing spaces on its private grounds. Already popular with pilots and guests flying in for countryside escapes, refined dining and celebrations, the expanded capacity now makes helicopter arrivals easier and more accessible than ever.

The hotel is now listed on SkyDemon, the UK’s leading flight-planning app, enabling pilots to locate, plan and land directly at the hotel with ease.

The upgraded helicopter landing areas sit discreetly within Peak Edge’s grounds, just a few steps from the hotel. With capacity for multiple arrivals each day, they are ideal for:

Wedding parties and VIP guests
Couples marking a special celebration
Destination diners flying in for the 2 AA Rosette Red Lion Restaurant
Corporate guests seeking travel efficiency
Travellers flying cross-country for a scenic Peak District escape

The guest services team coordinates all helicopter arrivals to ensure a smooth, seamless transition from aircraft to check-in.

Mark Thurman, Managing Director at Peak Edge Hotel said:

“Increasing our helicopter capacity is about making it even easier for guests to reach us in a memorable, time-saving and enjoyable way.”

“Whether it’s a bride and groom making a dramatic entrance or a couple enjoying a unique countryside escape, we’re thrilled to offer an arrival that people won’t forget.”

For more information on Peak Edge Hotel, visit peakedgehotel.co.uk

Posted in Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

Festive season launched in Chesterfield

24th November 2025

The Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On event took place yesterday, 23 November, entertaining thousands of residents and visitors and launching an exciting festive period in Chesterfield.

Visitor’s enjoyed street entertainment, Tipi Christmas, a market, funfair, the opportunity to meet Bluey, Merry Baubles Trail, and the stage show that entertained the crowd before the festive lights were switched on.

The stage show took place outside the Town Hall this year due to the exciting renovation works taking place in the town centre. Following the stage show, people were led back into the Market Place by a musical procession hosted by the LED drummers.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The Christmas Lights Switch On event was a huge success with visitors enjoying lots of free entertainment throughout the day. There aren’t many places you can go to enjoy no-cost activities, so I’m delighted that the variety of street entertainers and stage shows was able to attract so many

people into the town centre to enjoy their Sunday.”

Chesterfield is encouraging the whole family to discover something new this festive season, including a unique range of activities that are taking place for the first time in the heart of the town (including many that are free).

The planned entertainment is once again expected to attract thousands of visitors to Chesterfield. Highlights this year include an impressive light experience at the Church of All and Mary All Saints (the Crooked Spire), storytelling with Santa, a cosy tipi to share a drink with friends at Chesterfield Market, and the Festival of Christmas Trees.

You can keep up to date with these and other activities happening in Chesterfield across the festive period here: www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas

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

Enjoy Tipi Christmas at Chesterfield Market

21st October 2025

A new festive experience has been announced for the town centre this year. Chesterfield Market will host ‘Tipi Christmas.’

Visitors will be able to enter the cosy Tipi complete with twinkling lights, seasonal hot drinks and festive cheer – throughout the day and into the evening, making it a great place to meet friends and family. This could enhance people’s shopping trips or provide a great start to an evening at the theatre or one of the many fantastic local restaurants.

Tipi Christmas will be in the heart of Chesterfield Market from Friday 7 November to 9pm on Wednesday 31 December.

The Tipi will be serving refreshments like hot chocolate, mulled wine and other seasonal treats and there will be an open fire greeting visitors as they step inside from the cold.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This is set to be a fantastic attraction for people to visit in Chesterfield. The recent market regeneration works have created a great space where we can host events such as this, which can attract more people into the town centre.

“I’m sure the whole family will enjoy a trip to the Tipi. We hope that as many people as possible will come along and experience the festive spirit inside Tipi Christmas.”

Brett Jackson, owner and founder of Tipi Christmas, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be bringing Tipi Christmas to Chesterfield this winter. The newly developed market square is the perfect setting to create a warm and magical festive hub where families, friends, and the whole community can come together.

“We can’t wait to welcome residents and visitors alike to enjoy mulled wine, indulgent hot chocolates, and plenty of festive cheer. We’re looking forward to making Tipi Christmas a special part of Chesterfield’s celebrations and helping everyone get into the Christmas spirit.”

More information about visiting the Tipi will be available on the council’s social media channels.

Chesterfield also has a packed event programme planned for Christmas, with entertainment happening across the festive period. Find out what’s on in Chesterfield

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

Travelodge invests in Chesterfield as part of national expansion strategy

9th September 2025

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

Little Castle reopens as Woodie’s following magical makeover

13th August 2025

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.”

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

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

New campaign promotes Derbyshire as a top value destination

1st August 2025

‘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.

Posted in Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting