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Chesterfield gastropub owner to appear on ITV show, James Martin’s Saturday Morning

A Chesterfield gastropub owner is set to showcase a taste of Derbyshire to the nation this weekend, as he appears alongside James Martin on his Saturday morning cookery show.

Chris Mapp, owner of The Tickled Trout in Barlow, will be cooking for fellow guests on the ITV show in this weekend’s episode (Saturday 5th April).

The Tickled Trout prides itself on creating delicious dishes using locally sourced produce. In 2024, the venue received an AA rosette and was awarded Best Pub Restaurant Chef in the UK, at the Craft Guild Of Chefs Awards ceremony.

Speaking on his TV appearance, Chris said: “I know James and have done demos with him presenting, but to be on the show was surreal, it was so exciting. I must say that the whole crew and James himself were just fantastic and friendly, so they helped calm the nerves a lot. I also travelled down with Alysia, the Yorkshire Forager, she is a close mate of mine, and that was a huge relief she was there to help me through it.”

To get viewers’ taste buds tingling, Chris prepared one of his signature dishes on the show: “I did our already-famous spiced cod scotch egg with curry mayonnaise, my homage to Cornwall when I was there with Paul Ainsworth. James is such a brilliant professional, it’s very easy being with him, he makes it go extremely smoothly. There’s always room for a chuckle as well during filming!”

Chris believes the show will help to put Barlow and Chesterfield on the map as a place to enjoy quality cuisine, adding: “The show has over 1.5m live viewers, plus those watching on catch-up, which is huge. I am sure it will put Barlow and Chesterfield on the map and I am hoping it helps the pub as well. I can envisage already that the lads in the kitchen are going to be making hundreds of scotch eggs!”

The Tickled Trout is currently under refurbishment, but is set to reopen with an exciting new look this April. Keep up to date on the pub’s social media channels.

Find out more about The Tickled Trout here, or visit the restaurant’s website: https://www.tickledtroutbarlow.com/

Looking for more great places to eat and drink in the Chesterfield area? Check out our list of 50 top places to try in our town.

The Tickled Trout supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Chris Mapp on James Martin

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Chesterfield Champions among the winners in regional tourism awards

Exceptional tourism businesses in Chesterfield and the Peak District took centre stage as the winners of the Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards were revealed at a glittering awards ceremony.

The prestigious event was held at the East Midlands Conference Centre and brought together hundreds of guests including industry leaders, innovators and rising stars for a night of recognition and celebration during English Tourism Week (14-23 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 first time, with the support of East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, welcomed guests by congratulating the outstanding achievements of the region’s tourism and hospitality industry and highlighting the sector’s vital £5.25bn of economic impact contribution to the East Midlands’ economy.

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes OBE applauded the talent, passion and innovation of the shortlisted finalists, and recognised the collaborative efforts of Visit Nottinghamshire and Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby in driving growth and excellence across the region’s visitor economy.

The awards were hotly contested and finalists – including visitor attractions, experiences, pubs, restaurants and accommodation providers – progressed through shortlisting, mystery shopping and a rigorous judging process by an independent panel of experts to arrive at last night’s event.

In the Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award category, Matlock Farm Park took the coveted gold award, while Peak Edge Hotel picked up the bronze accolade.

Peak Edge also won a silver award for Hotel of the Year, while Chatsworth’s Country Fair 2024 received gold for Festival and Event of the Year.

Hosted by Donna Alos, the awards ceremony featured a vibrant atmosphere and included a three-course meal produced by Nottingham Venues that showcased suppliers from across the East Midlands.

The awards were held in partnership with VisitEngland and Gold winners of the core categories will have the opportunity to progress onto the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025, which represent the highest accolades in English tourism.

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

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “The East Midlands’ Tourism Awards showcase the places and experiences that make life in the East Midlands so rich. We are a destination – and tonight’s participants show why. I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the winners and nominees, and to celebrate their ingenuity and hard work.

“I am also delighted that we are doing this as a region, for the first time. Just as the East Midlands Combined County Authority creates space for us to come together around a common cause, so too do these awards. I am committed to making the East Midlands the best region in the country to live, work, and visit, and it is by working in partnership that we can best achieve that goal.”

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “Bringing together the finalists of the Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards and the Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards under one roof has provided an invaluable opportunity to demonstrate the power of collaboration in driving excellence, delivering economic growth and elevating the quality of tourism across the East Midlands.

“Tourism is a major economic driver, and it is the dedication and passion of those working in the tourism sector that makes our region the world-class destination that it is – driving growth, creating jobs, and contributing billions to our economy.

“Huge congratulations to all the worthy winners as well as the shortlisted businesses and individuals!”

The 2025 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards were sponsored by EV charging specialists VoltShare and Derbyshire-based C W Sellors Fine Jewellery & Luxury Watches, who designed and handcrafted luxury bespoke awards for all Gold winners.

The Awards Ceremony was jointly sponsored by Nottingham Venues and the East Midlands Combined County Authority.

If you’re planning a visit to the Peak District, be sure to experience Chesterfield during your stay.

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First phase of Chesterfield Market revamp completed

Chesterfield Market is ready to welcome visitors and shoppers to the first completed phase of the multi-million-pound regeneration project to revitalise the market and public spaces.

Work in the upper half of the Market square has included the installation of new feature paving, relaying of the traditional cobbles, the creation of bespoke market stalls, new street furniture and improvements to drainage, security and other infrastructure.

The second phase of the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project will now begin in the lower half of the Market square. It includes similar work to create a more open market that can support a wider range of markets and events.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “These exciting improvements are just the start of our town centre transformation, we’re enhancing the look and feel of the market but also providing traders with better facilities and creating more flexible spaces that will support a wider range of uses.

Market 3 L-R Cllr Kate Sarvent, Cllr Tricia Gilby

“It’s fantastic to see these improvements come to life and I hope that everyone can see what we are trying to achieve across our town centre. We’ll continue to work with our market traders and town centre businesses to minimise disruption as further phases of our regeneration project progress.”
Steve Siddall, whose family have been selling bedding and soft furnishings on Chesterfield Market for more than 70 years, said: “I like the new stalls, really sturdy and plenty of room. I’m looking forward to getting trading and welcoming new customers to my stall.”

The works are being carried out on behalf of the council by Thomas Bow.

John Allen, Construction Director at Thomas Bow, said: “After much hard work by our teams, both in the planning stage and delivery, it’s great to see the first phase of this high-profile scheme completed. As part of our commitment to delivering a positive impact through our works, and also the wider community, we have been busy behind the scenes working with local community groups, schools and colleges, educating young people on the civil engineering industry and providing a T level placement for a student within our offices.”

Works in the lower half of the market square will begin with the historic cobbles being lifted, and re-laid and some new paving will also be installed – together this will maintain the historic look but will provide a more level surface throughout the Market Place, making it easier for people with accessibility issues such as wheelchair and mobility scooter users or parents with pushchairs to navigate the market.

While works on phase two are underway a small number of traders will be on stalls in a new temporary market area in New Square.

New market stalls will be built and a new central area in the market place will have feature paving inspired by designs in the Market Hall and provide space for food traders and to support town centre events.

Later this year work will begin on New Square which will be opened up to create a new flexible events space but also provide additional stalls for busy market days.

Further phases of works include Rykneld Square which will be transformed to create a green and welcoming space from which to enjoy our much-loved Crooked Spire.
Improvements to Corporation Street will create a new gateway to the refurbished Stephenson Memorial Hall, which houses the Pomegranate Theatre and Chesterfield Museum.

The project is funded through an almost £20 million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund. With the funding split between town centre regeneration works and the refurbishment of Stephenson Memorial Hall.

Find out more about the works taking place in Chesterfield town centre: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/revitalising-heart-of-chesterfield/

For more information or to sign up for project updates by email, please visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/revitalise

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Property and Construction, Stay, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , , ,

Gladiators’ Giant to appear in Chesterfield pantomime this Christmas

This year’s Chesterfield Theatres pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk is on course to reach rarely seen heights as the production will star BBC One’s Gladiator, Giant.

Standing at over six feet tall, IFBB Pro League bodybuilder Jamie Christian-Johal, aka the dueling Giant from the Saturday night hit show, will bring his towering presence to the Winding Wheel stage from 5 December when he steps into the role of the larger-than-life pantomime Giant.

With menace and mayhem, audiences can expect a twist in the tale as Jack Trott’s giant enemy will be ready to defeat any contenders getting too close to the magical beanstalk.

Away from Gladiators, Jamie has appeared on Comic Relief, This Morning, Blue Peter, and Celebrity The Weakest Link in addition to appearances in live events such as Truckfest and Snap Fitness.

He was crowned the British Superheavyweight Champion in 2015, and in 2018, he earned his IFBB Pro status. Since then, he’s competed internationally, securing a top six finish at the 2022 Arnold Classic.

Jack and the Beanstalk runs throughout the festive period until 4 January 2026. Starring alongside Jamie is the very funny Patrick Monahan as Simon Trott. A comedy favourite at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, with his blend of high-energy performance and hilarious topical observations, he continues to be a huge hit across the UK. Once seen, never forgotten, Patrick guarantees an effortless connection with the young and old, making him a favorite comedian for everyone.

Pantomime producer Paul Holman, for Paul Holman Associates, said: “It’s fantastic to have Jamie on board, bringing his incredible strength and energy to the show. You can’t ask for a bigger or better Giant so we’re very excited to see the character grow!”

He also mentioned: “Patrick Monahan is the perfect choice to bring the comedy, ensuring there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.”

And it won’t just be magic beans in this pantomime production of Jack and the Beanstalk. Magician Nicholas Lee and his assistant Rachel O’Hare will bring the battle of good over evil to life with their unique spells and wizardry in the roles of the devilish Fleshcreep and the enchanting Spirit of Cloudland. Will they have the power to shrink a Giant? There’s only one way to find out!

Pantomime audiences, ready? Tickets are on sale for Jack and the Beanstalk at: https://chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk/

Find out more about upcoming events and activities in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Christmas, Home, Leisure, Stay, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

New strategic vision unveiled for the regeneration of Chesterfield Canal

A masterplan to complete the restoration of the Chesterfield Canal as part of a large regeneration project has been launched.

The vision is for the Chesterfield Canal corridor to be reclaimed as a place for the local community to live, enjoy, and be employed; for tourists and visitors to come, play and stay; for new and existing businesses to grow and prosper; and for nature and biodiversity to thrive.

About 60 politicians, local government officers, businesspeople, canal enthusiasts and journalists gathered at the Parish Suite in Killamarsh to hear that there are two reports – a high level Strategic Outline Case covering the corridor between Chesterfield and Kiveton Park, and a more detailed Outline Business Case covering the section within North East Derbyshire District Council.

Both reports cover the Strategic, Economic, Commercial, Financial and Management aspects of full restoration. They focus on establishing a framework for the regeneration of the canal corridor rather than just the restoration of the canal itself.

The Chesterfield Canal Corridor Project will provide new canal and water-based training opportunities, introduce a range of activities to attract tourists and local residents, support activities for paddlesports, introduce cycling and walking trails with fitness opportunities to improve physical and mental health, create new business opportunities along the route, develop new carparking and access to improve connectivity, introduce measures to ensure the safety and security of users, support and enhance native wildlife and habitats, and create new areas for biodiversity.

It will further enhance the corridor as a place to live, visit and do business, improving the viability of housing delivery and raising land values locally to attract a range of economic investment.

Eighteen different hubs have been identified along the canal corridor. The report provides a summary of each site, some background information, potential project ideas and how they align with the drivers for change which are – Live, Work, Play, Health, Heritage and Environment.

The potential financial returns from these drivers include £252 million in Visitor Expenditure, £132 million in Art & Heritage Engagement and £116 million in Job Creation.

The masterplan was compiled by Focus Consultants and Sigma Architects. It was commissioned by the Chesterfield Canal Partnership, which is composed of local authorities, statutory and non-statutory bodies, the voluntary sector and private enterprise.

The Chair of the Partnership, Cllr Alex Dale, said: “Those of us who are close to the mission to restore the rest of the Chesterfield Canal, inherently know there are huge benefits economically, socially, environmentally and for the health and wellbeing of our local population. But as a partnership, it’s vital that we communicate the huge potential of a fully restored and navigable canal more publicly, especially for potential funders, to help secure the significant sums needed to finish the job. That is exactly what this new masterplan is all about.

“I particularly want to thank the Chesterfield Canal Trust, as well as our local authority partners – Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire County Council, North East Derbyshire District Council and Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council – for their vital funding contribution to produce this masterplan. We look forward to working together as a partnership to help realise our collective ambition to get the job done and realise the massive benefits the fully restored canal could bring to our communities and the region as a whole.”

During the research for the project, dozens of different stakeholders were consulted including all the local county, district and borough councils, the Trans Pennine Trail, Cycle Chesterfield, the British Horse Society, the Environment Agency, Don Catchment Rivers Trust, Kiveton Stakeholder Group and Don, Dearne & Rother Network. In addition, a community survey was circulated to Parish Councils along the route of the canal.

The project will be delivered alongside the restoration of the canal itself. The Chesterfield Canal is one of the country’s earliest navigations, opening in 1777. Originally constructed for carrying goods, the commercial traffic on the canal dropped off with the coming of the railways. The canal further declined in the early 20th century, and by 1968 only the 26 miles from Worksop to the River Trent were still navigable. Since 1989, through the hard work of those involved, 12 miles of the Chesterfield Canal has been reinstated, along with 37 locks, 12 major bridges and 2 new marinas.

There now remains approximately 8.5 miles of the canal to be restored between Staveley and Kiveton Park to make the canal fully navigable once more.

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Local charities and partners return for the 2025 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K

The Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K has announced the return of its charity partners and sponsors for its 2025 event.

Scheduled for May 11th at Queen’s Park, this annual running event continues to unite the community while supporting local charities and promoting wellbeing.

The returning charity partners include the Redbrik Foundation as title sponsor, alongside Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, and Cavendish Cancer Care. The event also welcomes back Pronto Paints as a sponsor of the Fun Run and Wellbeing Challenge, alongside other returning sponsors Nuzest, Chapter II, North Derbyshire Running Club, and Chesterfield Borough Council.

Established in 2020, the Redbrik Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of people and communities across South Yorkshire and Northeast Derbyshire. The charity mainly focuses on children, young people, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

Ashgate Hospice delivers essential palliative and end-of-life care services for adults across North Derbyshire. Their involvement in the 10K helps fund their comprehensive range of services, from specialist nursing care to bereavement support.

Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, another returning charity partner, provides crucial support to families facing the heartbreaking reality of a child with a shortened life expectancy. Funding helps them continue offering services such as respite care, music therapy, and end-of-life care, all provided free of charge to families in need.

Cavendish Cancer Care supports individuals and families affected by cancer through a holistic approach to care. Their partnership with the event helps fund their range of services, including counselling, complementary therapies, and specialized support for children and young people, both online and at their dedicated Tim Pryor Centre.

Now in its fourth year, the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K will showcase Chesterfield’s landmarks, including the famous Crooked Spire, and will feature service and cheer stations along the route. Since 2017, more than £250,000 has been raised for various charities and good causes by the 10K races Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield Half Marathon.

John Timms, Event Director at MLS Contracts, said: “We are thrilled to welcome back all of our dedicated charity partners as well corporate sponsors from last year’s successful event. These partnerships have been key to making the Chesterfield 10K what it is today, and they showcase the brilliant community that exists within our region.

“We’re also excited to have the continued support of Pronto Paints, Chesterfield Borough , Destination Chesterfield, Nuzest, North Derbyshire Running Club and Chapter II, whose involvement helps ensure the event runs smoothly and professionally. Based on early registrations and community engagement, this year’s event is already shaping up to be our biggest yet. I can’t wait to see all runners, volunteers, and supporters gathering together again at Queen’s Park for another memorable day.”

David Cooper, Trustee of the Redbrik Foundation, added: “We are very proud to support this event, which has so much goodwill from all involved.

“We love this town and we want to see it thrive. Events such as this help to do that, with huge numbers of people coming to Chesterfield from all parts of the country to support, contribute or take part. We can’t wait until race day!”

To sign up for the upcoming race in May, visit: https://www.myraceentries.co.uk/RC10K/EntryForm.aspx

For more information about the charity partners, visit https://www.mlsgb.co/chesterfield-10k

Want to find out more about visiting Chesterfield and some of the great events and activities taking place across the town? Go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/ for more details.

Redbrik, Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, Chesterfield Borough Council and Nuzest support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Chesterfield Pride announces line-up for 10th anniversary event

Chesterfield Pride has announced an exciting line-up for its 10th anniversary event this July.

The festival, which sees thousands of visitors celebrating in Stand Road Park returns on Saturday July 19th.

The event will have two stages, with the main stage to be headlined by chart-topping boyband, 911. The group scored 10 top ten singles in the UK including a number one single. The Main Stage will also see performances from MOBO award-winning Big Brovaz, chart-topper and West End star Diana Vickers, 90s artists Alex Party and Berri.

Also announced on this year’s lineup is the iconic Honey G, Pride legend Kelly Wilde, Dene Michael from Black Lace and Britain’s Got Talent star, Rob King.

The event also hosts the Cabaret Stage which will see some of the UK’s most well-known drag artists appearing, alongside the best in unsigned talent. This year’s Cabaret Stage will see performances from the fabulous Baga Chipz, Fatt Butcher and Bernie De Bra. Aditionally, this stage will see some of the world’s best tributes including Donna Marie as Lady Gaga and Melissa Totten as Madonna. Unsigned artists appreating at the event include Toni Lee, Poppy-Mai, Davey Stuart and Lexi Whiteside.

Chesterfield Pride Organiser, Dan Walker commented: “I am so proud to see the event reach its 10th Birthday. To see Chesterfield Pride grow over 10 years has been fantastic. To know we are now the region’s biggest LGBTQ celebration is an amazing achievement. The event has a fantastic team of volunteers working on it to make it happen.

“Chesterfield Pride is a day about bringing the community together and having fun. Chesterfield Pride would not be possible without the amazing support from everyone that attends the event and all the businesses that sponsor us.”

Tickets are £10 if bought in advance. Under 16’s are free entry but must be accompanied with an adult. Tickets available through Skiddle or by visiting: chesterfieldpride.co.uk

Find out more about events and activities taking place in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/

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Partnership working enables promotion of the Peak District and Derbyshire on the international stage

Recent international marketing activity work has been undertaken by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire to boost overseas visitors to the area.

2025 is off to a flying start with Visit Peak District & Derbyshire spearheading international tourism activity to support the destination’s core aims to increase overnight stays, extend the tourism season and grow the value of the visitor economy.

As lead partner of the area’s Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), Visit Peak District & Derbyshire recently worked in partnership with VisitBritain and West Midlands Growth Company to host travel buyers from the Netherlands and Belgium on a familiarisation trip to the area.

The influential group of buyers and tour operators – all experts in selling trips to the UK – were in the destination as part of VisitBritain’s ‘Showcase Britain’ event, which includes a series of special educational visits to shine the spotlight on the latest products and experiences on offer for future visitors.

The programme enables overseas buyers to make new connections and gain first-hand experience of destinations, so they are equipped with the latest product knowledge to create new itineraries and drive international visits that will support and grow the visitor economy.

According to VisitBritain research, the UK welcomed 2 million visitors from the Netherlands in 2023 who spent a record £1.1 billion. In the same year, 867,000 visitors from Belgium travelled to the UK, spending a record £481.4 million.

With a strong focus on travelling for culture, heritage, nature and the outdoors, the aim is to encourage Dutch and Belgian visitors to add the Peak District and Derbyshire to future itineraries and help grow the destination’s £2.9bn visitor economy.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire worked alongside six local tourism operators to bring the ‘Showcase Britain’ trip to life – and in connection with VisitBritain’s new Starring GREAT Britain campaign, the visit was designed to highlight some of the area’s many film locations which have featured in films and TV programmes shown across the world.

The buyers discovered the breathtaking beauty of the Peak District National Park on a guided walk with Peak Walking Adventures on Stanage Edge, as seen in the 2005 film adaptation of Pride & Prejudice.

The group also visited Haddon Hall, historic home of Lord and Lady Edward Manners, to discover the backdrop for famous films and TV shows including Wolf Hall, Mary Queen of Scots, The King, The Princess Bride and numerous adaptations of Jane Eyre.

The buyers enjoyed Bakewell Pudding Making at the Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop, sampled local food at The George, Hathersage and The Pilsley Inn on the Chatsworth Estate, and stayed at the newly-opened Bike & Boot Hotel in Hope, a walking, cycling and dog-friendly hotel in the heart of the Peak District.

The activity to drive international visits came hot on the heels of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire attending the Britain & Ireland Marketplace (BIM) trade event in London on 26th January, which offers British tourism suppliers and destinations an opportunity to meet 1-1 with overseas buyers from across the world.

Other recent activity has included an international workshop with VisitBritain Germany in November to meet major tour operators and travel agents, and promoting the area’s trade-ready product at the ‘Vakantiebeurs’ Trade Day event in Utrecht earlier this year, which is regarded as a key annual travel event for the Netherlands.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “Attracting international visits to the Peak District and Derbyshire is vitally important to creating a sustainable, year-round visitor economy that supports local jobs, businesses and communities.

“International markets can be key for supporting tourism businesses in the traditionally quieter months, encouraging longer stays, increasing visitor spend, and driving economic growth right across the region.

“Being part of these important face-to-face events and familiarisation visits helps showcase the area as a world-class destination for key travel trade buyers, ensuring the Peak District and Derbyshire is ‘front of mind’ for them when programming and recommending destinations to their clients in 2025 and beyond.”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, says: “People across the region know and enjoy the beautiful towns, villages and breathtaking countryside in Derbyshire, and we’re so fortunate to have the incredible Peak District on our doorstep. I have loved spending so much time in Derbyshire and the Peak District, it’s such a joy to visit either in my role as Mayor or going there with my family on rare days off.

“I am delighted with the work being done by the team at Visit Peak District and Derbyshire, as we rightly showcase to the world all we have to offer tourists and businesses. It is so important to me that we protect and promote this part of our region, support and grow the businesses here and make sure as many people across the globe add ‘Visit Derbyshire’ to their travel plans.”

Planning your trip to the Peak District or Derbyshire? Make sure you visit the historic market town of Chesterfield! Find out more about what our town has to offer at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

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‘This February – the month of love – take a moment to feel proud of where you live’

In her February blog post, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, Ann Fomukong-Boden, reflects on the reasons why she loves her town. 

On Valentine’s Day, we celebrate love. Not just for our partners, but for all the people, places, and little joys that make life special.

For me, Chesterfield’s character, community, and charm are just three of the reasons why I love where I live.

My old local, the Chesterfield Arms holds a special place in my heart, and I love stopping in there to relax and enjoy the cosiness on a chilly winter’s evening. Of course, their selection of ales certainly helps to warm the soul!

Our town boasts many beautiful green spaces, and you only need travel fifteen minutes from our town centre to arrive at the iconic Peak District National Park. Plenty of spots to create memories with those you love. I personally love a stroll with family and friends. Our little one loves to wear her hiking backpack, and any outdoor activity must be complemented by a delicious pub lunch! Getting outdoors in the fresh air is an excellent way to fall in love with the local area.

Queen’s Park continues to bring a smile to our daughter’s face – with its grassy picnic spots, playgrounds full of laughter, and the iconic choo-choo of Puffin’ Billy, our miniature train.

I also love many of our indoor options for the UK’s rainy days. Chesterfield Escape Rooms, Geeks Headquarters and the new Board & Bean café provide warm spaces to indulge in a hobby and spend quality time together.

But above all, what truly makes Chesterfield? For me, it’s our people.

Our shop owners love a friendly chat with you and go out of their way to help. Neighbours look out for one another. Finally, you can feel the warmth at our community events like the Chesterfield Children’s Festival and the Ashgate Hospice Superhero Walk. I could certainly feel the warmth at my own town centre event this year – Social Fuse, which celebrated social enterprises across our area.

I work alongside many people in our town, and I love to see our businesspeople pour their hearts into their work to create spaces where we can connect, shop, and enjoy life. These hard-working individuals keep our high streets bustling and our community spirit alive.

So, this February – the month of love – take a moment to feel proud of where you live. To soak up our town’s character, community and charm. Whether savouring our food, our family-friendly spaces, or our wonderful people, show a little extra love to our places and faces that make life in our town so meaningful.

For ideas of how to make memories with those you love this Valentine’s Day visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/valentines/

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member

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Long-awaited PEAK gateway resort breaks ground

The long-awaited PEAK gateway resort situated on the eastern boundary of the Peak District has broken ground. Phase One is scheduled to open to visitors 2027/8.

Consented on 283 acres (114 hectares) of reclaimed former opencast land, PEAK proposes the UK’s first purpose built national park gateway ‘resort town’.

PEAK Gateway will offer visitors world class facilities and services as a base from which to access the trails and attractions of the 550 square mile National Park. Similar to a ski resort, PEAK Gateway has visitor mobility at its heart. PEAK’s mobility system will link up the trails and country lanes of the Peak District without the need for a car and help establish the area as the largest integrated off and on road cycling and hiking region in the UK.

Planning approvals totalling 1.8mft2 (168,000m2) have been granted to facilitate a multi-branded mixed use development available to both day and stay visitors. The approvals offer extensive experiential retail, a wide range of leisure and educational facilities, a wellness clinic with operating theatres, 2,850 car parking spaces and up to 2,000 hotel rooms and 250 holiday lodges. The development has consent for its own energy park.

PEAK Gateway will be delivered by way of an incremental and phased ground leasing strategy. Heads of terms have already been agreed for the first two anchor plots with Colliers acting as Real Estate Adviser and leasing agents for Birchall Properties, the land owner. Phase One represents in the region of 30% of the consented development and is scheduled to open 2027/8.

Plan of new PEAK Gateway building - artist impression from high vantage point

Fully implemented PEAK has the potential to achieve a development value of over £1billion and sustain thousands of jobs. Around 70% of the reclaimed estate will be set aside for continued biodiversity gains as well as offer nature connectivity to encourage people’s engagement and delight in nature.

Sheffield City Region granted £2.85m for the construction of the now completed resort public highway access from A61 interchange at Sheepbridge and the new public rights of way around surrounding the resort estate.

The commencement of land formation works continues the delivery of the outcomes promised by the grant. Booths Group https://theboothgroup.co.uk/ have been appointed lead contractor for the land formation activity.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Acting Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “PEAK offers an opportunity to use formerly open cast land in a way that supports nature but also creates new opportunities for our residents and increases the number of visitors coming to Chesterfield. It is great to see work starting on site and I look forward to seeing the development progress.”

Scott Knowles CEO of the East Midlands Chamber of Commerce said: “PEAK’s gateway manifesto provides the opportunity for regional businesses to participate in the construction and operation of a world class ESG exemplar enterprise celebrating and making available the cultural and natural assets of our region.”

Jo Dilley Managing Director Visit Peak District and Derbyshire said: “The PEAK Gateway development, is a transformative project that will redefine the visitor experience in the Peak District. With the introduction of high quality serviced hotels, we will be able to cater to more groups and international visitors, offering world-class accommodations and amenities. The sustainable transport solution at the heart of PEAK will not only enhance the visitor experience by providing seamless access to the park’s trails and attractions but also significantly reduce car traffic in busy hotspot areas, a change
that will be warmly welcomed by local residents. This development marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and enjoyable future for all who visit and live in and around the Peak District.”

James Shorthouse, Head of Alternative Markets at Colliers Real Estate said “We are delighted to have advised PEAK, and to be delivering exciting new developments bringing visitors and employment to Chesterfield and the East Midlands region of the UK.”

For enquires please contact james.shorthouse@colliers.com

Matthew Booth, Founder of The Booth Group, highlighted the significance of the project, stating: “This is a three year programme for Booth’s and perfectly complements our specialism of regenerative land solutions bringing challenging landscapes back into beneficial use. We are thrilled to be part of the iconic Peak Gateway development, activating the UK’s growth potential through the regeneration of land for local communities and legacy value.”

Rupert Carr of Birchall Properties said: “From the outset PEAK has been a land first business, over 30 years and millions of pounds has been invested in the revival of the former opencast estate and the obtaining of now implementable planning permissions. It’s great to finally be underway and to be involved in a regenerative enterprise capable of activating and sustaining clean growth in the regional visitor economy”. For enquiries, visit the PEAK community information website https://www.peakliaison.co.uk/enquiries

Location of PEAK Gateway

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Chesterfield couple continue business success with launch of new cocktail bar

An entrepreneurial couple are continuing to build on their success in Chesterfield, following the successful launch of a new town centre cocktail bar.

Gavin and Hannah Grainger, who recently relocated the popular Bottle & Thyme restaurant to larger premises on Elder Way, have now opened a new bar on the site of the restaurant’s previous location.

The latest addition to the town, Elder, is a neighbourhood wine and cocktail bar, serving coffee and grilled cheese by day and an extensive wine menu and charcuterie and cheese boards by night.

Speaking about their latest launch, Gavin commented: “Moving Bottle & Thyme over to its new home on Elder Way has been amazing and so well received. The new venue definitely does have more of a city vibe with it’s big, open, airy space but we also wanted to keep the small, intimate nature of our old venue and offer something a little different to Bottle & Thyme.

“Elder is a grown-up, sophisticated place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of life and enjoy the finest things in life; good coffee, wine and cheese. We wanted to bring something to our town that isn’t currently on offer and feel Elder achieves this with its offering.

Plate of meditteranian food including bread, olives and cheeses

“Having both been raised in Chesterfield and currently bringing our own two boys up in the town, we are really passionate about developing the area and creating special places for people to share and enjoy. We want to bring people into the town centre from the town and surrounding areas and cities to support the town’s growth and other local businesses. We have a brilliant team that is currently growing and we are thrilled to be able to provide exciting job opportunities to our town.”

Speaking about their decision to invest further in our town centre, the couple added: “We really feel Chesterfield is on the brink of lots of exciting change. If anything we’ve learnt from Bottle & Thyme is that there is a significant market of people in Chesterfield who want to come out to enjoy quality products, service and something a bit different; creating a huge potential for independent businesses looking to embark on a new project.

“Something that we really value running businesses in Chesterfield is the incredibly supportive relationship businesses have with one another, for example visiting each other on Christmas do’s or special occasions, encouraging chats and promoting each other to customers.

“We can’t stress how grateful we are for the support given to us by our town so far. We have been running for 8 years and it is this support that has enabled us to expand to our new bigger premises to be able to offer so much more to the town centre. If people want to see change, they need to be part of it, alongside the independents taking the leap into our lovely town.

Elder 6

“Increased footfall in the town is a necessity, with local residents actively choosing to spend money within their town centre as opposed to outside of this and online. Our hope and aim is for Chesterfield to be a bustling, busy town with a fantastic offering of retail, hospitality and leisure and we really feel this can be achieved.

You can find Elder at 15-17 Knifesmithgate, S40 1RL in the town centre, just opposite Bottle & Thyme. The business is active on Instagram @elder_chesterfield and Facebook, detailing its products and upcoming events. Bookings can be made over the phone 03300161365 or via email hello@elderchesterfield.co.uk

Planning your visit to Chesterfield? Find out more about how to make the most of your stay here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

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