Summer

Vicar Lane makes further additions to exciting ‘Summer Fest’ schedule

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre has added more events and activities to its exciting ‘Summer Fest’ lineup, taking place this July and August.

Visitors can choose from Giant Chess, Connect Four or Table Tennis for a competitive game in the sunshine, before stopping for a bite & relaxing on a deck chair – and that’s not all.

Throughout July and August, alongside events happening around the town centre – they will be hosting a series of free events for all the family to enjoy.

Until Sunday 16th July, Vicar Lane will be serving the best of Wimbledon action on the big screen, whilst visitors can pull up a deck chair in St James’ Square. Spectators will be able to purchase cream teas from The Vintage Tea Rooms and jugs of Pimm’s from Pizza Pi too.

The centre is providing a special treat on Sunday 16th July for National Ice Cream Day – the first 100 customers who visit Vicar Lane’s Ice Cream Van will be able to pick up a free ice cream.

Ahead of the region’s biggest LGBTQ celebration –  Chesterfield Pride – taking place on Sunday 23rd July, visitors are being welcomed to Vicar Lane the day before for vibrant entertainment, roaming around the centre as you shop.

On Saturday 22nd July, from 11am – 4pm, shoppers and visitors can revel with flamboyant ribbon dancers and snap a selfie with sparkling stilt walkers, whilst youngsters can have their face painted and get glitter tattoos throughout the day.

Vicar Lane is also excited to welcome the social media ‘Balloon Globe’ sensation to St James’s Square for kids and grown-ups to experience a bubble full of fun.

On Tuesday 25th July, the popular Medieval-themed fun day makes a return to Chesterfield and Vicar Lane will be hosting live musicians throughout the day as an extra treat for visitors to enjoy.

In August, there’ll be Summer fun days to get involved with, from Crazy Golf to roaming performers complete with singing and dancing.

To see the full schedule of events this Summer Fest at Vicar Lane, visit https://www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk/summer/ and plan your days out.

Sarah Bowler, Tenant and Community Liaison Manager said: We are delighted to continue our events schedule into July and August for families to enjoy over the summer holidays. With Chesterfield Pride and the historic Medieval Market happening so close by – it is set to be a great atmosphere and we are excited to join in the fun and offer a place to come and shop, relax, enjoy and dine out!

Find out more about the wide range of summer events and activities taking place across Chesterfield this summer at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

Wimbledon Vicar Lane Big Screen

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Businesses encouraged to apply for prestigious Derbyshire Tourism Awards

Businesses in Chesterfield’s visitor economy sectors are being encouraged to apply for a prestigious awards ceremony, which could see them gain national recognition.

Applications for the 2024 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards will officially open on Friday 14th July 2023.

Organised by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire in collaboration with Visit Derby, the awards will celebrate excellence and outstanding achievement across the tourism sector.

The awards are set launch at an exciting time for the area’s visitor economy with Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby recently gaining Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) status from VisitEngland, as part of a new national programme aimed at transforming and growing the visitor economy across England in an inclusive, accessible, and sustainable way.

There are 14 awards categories in total covering different aspects of the tourism industry, ranging from hotels, B&Bs and campsites to pubs, visitor attractions, unique experiences, and the hardworking people behind local businesses.

Applications will be open from 14th July to 30th August 2023. Shortlisted finalists will be revealed in the autumn and winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony held at the Museum of Making at Derby Silk Mill on 7th March 2024.

The awards are held in association with the acclaimed VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2024 and eligible regional winners will be automatically put forward for judging in the national awards.

The Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards are free to enter for members of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire and Visit Derby. Non-members can enter at a fee of £150 plus VAT per category. Entrants must be based in Derbyshire, the city of Derby, or within the Peak District National Park boundary, and must be part of the visitor economy.

Businesses interested in applying for the 2024 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards can boost their chances of success by attending application masterclasses on Tuesday 11th July or Thursday 13th July 2023.

The free 90-minute webinars will include top tips on how to write a quality awards application and insights on what the judges will be looking for.

Full details of how to apply, and more information on the application writing webinars, can be found at: www.visitpeakdistrict.com/industry/tourism-awards

The 2024 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards are sponsored by digital solutions company Destination Core and Derbyshire-based C W Sellors Fine Jewellery & Luxury Watches, who will be designing and handcrafting luxury bespoke awards for all Gold winners.

Businesses interested in sponsoring a category at the 2024 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards should contact Lindsay Rae at lindsay.rae@visitpeakdistrict.com.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “The Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards are a celebration of our world-class tourism industry and the passionate people who work tirelessly to provide visitors with experiences to remember.

“Tourism plays a vital role in making the Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby such a great place to live, work and visit, and these awards also provide a timely opportunity for our hard-working, innovative and inspiring businesses to pause and celebrate what they have achieved.

“Becoming one of the first destinations in England to gain LVEP status from VisitEngland is a testament to the long-standing collaboration and growth of this sector over the years, and these awards provide a fantastic opportunity for tourism businesses to showcase why they are so important for our region.”

Chris Sellors, Managing Director of C W Sellors Fine Jewellery & Luxury Watches, says:“As a business that prides itself on promoting quality and celebrating our Derbyshire heritage, C W Sellors Fine Jewellery & Luxury Watches is delighted to be once again producing bespoke awards for the Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards. Good luck to everyone who applies!”

Categories for the 2024 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards:

  • B&B and Guest House of the Year
  • Hotel of the Year
  • Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year
  • Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year
  • Visitor Attraction of the Year
  • Pub of the Year
  • Experience of the Year
  • New Tourism Business of the Year
  • Taste of the Peak District & Derbyshire
  • Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award
  • Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award
  • Unsung Hero Award
  • Team of the Year (Local Award)
  • Tourism Young Achiever (Local Award)

Gold winners at the 2023 Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, Visiting

Blooming great market to celebrate Chesterfield In Bloom

Chesterfield will host a special flower-themed market to celebrate its entry into the East Midlands In Bloom competition.

On Friday 14 July, a selection of local florists, independent makers and crafters, charities and food vendors will be trading on the market as Chesterfield competes in East Midlands in Bloom. There will also be street performers, Granny Turismo, and Saxophonist Paul Smith to help keep visitors entertained.

Councillor Jonathan Davies, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “East Midlands In Bloom is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our community and thank the volunteers who spend their spare time helping make sure our parks and green spaces look fantastic.

“We’re hosting this market to try and bring the whole town together behind our entry, and there will be lots of great stalls and activities that everyone can enjoy.”

Chesterfield has entered East Midlands In Bloom for the last 16 years but the best result came last year when the town took the top prize in the Small City Category.

Councillor Davies added: “It was incredible to take the top accolade last year and I hope that we can repeat our success this year. I’m looking forward to meeting the judges and helping to show them around our blooming brilliant town.”

The judging panel will be visiting sites across Chesterfield and meeting members of the community.  They’ll be joined in the market place to take a look at the flower-themed market together with the Mayor of Chesterfield.

Chesterfield In Bloom Market Traders

There will be something for everyone to enjoy with additional traders confirmed for the market including:

  • Project D
  • Rixsters Pet beds
  • Bee Safe Supplies
  • Gypsy’s Brew Co
  • Eby’s Caribbean Food
  • Cup & Saucer
  • Jane’s Candles
  • Tina’s Make & Mend
  • Grandela Artisan Treats
  • Happy Arts
  • Wax Melts
  • Sunshine Forest School
  • Aurora Eco-Florist
  • Transition Chesterfield- seed swap
  • Sherlox Boutique
  • The Jade Elephant
  • Working for Wildlife
  • Sign of the Times
  • The Farm at Pilsley
  • Steph’s Sustainable Stuff
  • Jewellery
  • Crooked Pickle
  • Homemade Soaps
  • Avon
  • Boutique Clothing
  • The Wildlife Trust

Chesterfield in Bloom 1

Posted in About Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Visiting

Make the most of the summer holidays in Chesterfield

Are you looking to make memories with family and friends during the summer holidays? Whether you’re simply looking for somewhere to help the youngsters burn off energy, or you fancy a big day out with lots of entertainment, we can guarantee there’s something to suit everyone this summer in Chesterfield!

Here’s our selection of some of the things you could be getting up to once the schools break up, but don’t forget to check out all the great events taking place across the town throughout the year here.

Family Fun Activities

From having a go at paddle sports to experiencing an open air cinema – there’s plenty of fun to be had.

Enjoy views of Chesterfield

Crooked Spire

All families should visit the iconic Crooked Spire at least once. Why not count your way up all 144 steps to reveal wonderful views over Chesterfield?

As part of the Crooked Spire Tower Tours you can learn about the history of the medieval church, see the bells, visit the inside of the famous Crooked Spire, and enjoy stunning views over Chesterfield from the viewing platform.

Have a go at Paddle Sports

wo Wheels Breakfast Meet Up

The summer holidays is the perfect opportunity to try something new. With the choice of paddle boards, kayaks and canoe’s you could have a go at paddle sports along the Chesterfield Canal.

Experience open air cinema

Top Gun Maverick Open Air Cinema

Fancy watching a film outdoors under the stars? Well, there’s a few opportunities you can experience open air cinema this summer.

Watch the incredible Top Gun: Maverick in the ground of Ashgate Hospice, al fresco under the stars! Get together with family and friends under the start for a night at the movies.

Grab a blanket and a camping chair as more family favourites are being shown at Hardwick Hall. Films include Elvis, The Greatest Showman, Mamma Mia, and Encanto.

Watch a legendary joust at Bolsover Castle

Why not do something fun and learn about history at the same time? Experience the exhilarating spectacle of speed and skill as four legendary knights compete for honour and glory in the Legendary Joust at Bolsover Castle.

Spend time down at the farm

Girl next to a large dinosaur puppet at Jurassic Fun Day

Of course, you will get the chance to meet lots of cute animals at Matlock Farm Park, but you can also get involved with lots of fun themed events. Learn all about dinosaurs at the Jurassic Fun Day, see The Big Bubbleman, be a Superhero for the day and much more.

Give roller skating a try

Queen's Park Roller Energy

Looking for something different to do with the kids? Introduce them to roller skating with this weekly roller disco at Queen’s Park Sports Centre.

The roller disco’s are high energy combination of roller skating, thumping beats and awesome lighting shows.

Roller Energy are at Queen’s Park Sports Centre every Saturday 6.15pm – 7.30pm. Before visiting, it is advisable to check social media for updates regarding the sessions. Roller Energy UK are on Facebook here.

Head to the park for a variety of activities

Poolsbrook Country Park showing lake and park

Want to experience the great outdoors? There are plenty of events taking place at parks across Chesterfield. Simply click on this link, set Chesterfield Borough Council as the provider and press search and you can see what there is to offer.

Family-Friendly Events & Festivals

Look forward to the return of annual favourites and opportunity to try new events and festivals.

See the country’s leading strongmen and mighty women compete

Peak District Highland Games Tug of War 873

Looking to end the summer holidays doing something memorable? See the country’s leading strongmen and mighty strongwomen compete at the Peak District Highland Games.

The Peak District Highland Games return 27th August 2023.

Memorable day out at Chatsworth Country Fair

Chatsworth Country Fair

The Chatsworth Country Fair is a truly memorable day out for all the family, with all the fun of the vintage fairground for the young and young at heart.

With a packed programme of grand ring entertainment, a cookery theatre and fine food village, there’s lots to see and do. In the showground, you can try your hand at heritage country sports, rural country crafts, and admire the vintage and military vehicles on display.

Chatsworth Country Fair take place 1st, 2nd and 3rd September 2023.

Shows and Entertainment

You can make sure the family has a memorable summer by enjoying one of the many great shows being shown at the Winding Wheel Theatre.

See The Little Mermaid

Get ready to make a splash with Scott Ritchie Productions’ The Little Mermaid at The Winding Wheel Theatre!

See it on 23rd August 2023.

Kids clubs

Looking for some time to yourself or have work commitments during the summer holidays? Here is a selection of kids clubs which will keep your little one’s entertained.

Get crafty

StraightCurves

Whether you need childcare whilst you’re at work, or you fancy a day to yourself to hit the shops, StraightCurves Crafty School will keep your young creative occupied!

Burn off energy at Spireites Soccer School

Soccer School main image

Chesterfield FC’s mixed Soccer School runs every school holiday, Monday to Thursday 9am-3:30pm – the perfect opportunity to let the kids run off some energy.

From events to festivals, entertainment to shows and family activities – there’s plenty of ways to make memories during the summer holidays. Make sure to see what else is on this summer…

Complete your family day out by visiting one of our friendly food and drink venues. Here’s 50 different places to consider dining out at…

Looking for even more inspiration? Check out guide for things to do with the family…

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Paw Patrol star, Skye, set to visit Chesterfield

Children in Chesterfield will have the chance to meet popular pup, Skye, at The Entertainer on Saturday 8th July.

The Entertainer is offering fans of the courageous pup the chance to meet their Paw Patrol hero at its Chesterfield store at regular intervals between 10am – 4pm. What’s more, little ones can expect a pup-tacular high-five and hug from their number one hero, Skye, while capturing the paw-fect snap.

Skye will be at the Chesterfield store for one day only before she dashes off to re-join the Paw Patrol gang for another action-packed adventure, so guests are advised to arrive in plenty of time for the chance to meet and greet one of the world’s most popular pups.

The Entertainer’s Paw Patrol meet and greet is free-of-charge and provides families with a budget-friendly, fun-filled day out, where children can pose for photos with their favourite furry friend.

Craig Lowe, events coordinator at The Entertainer, said: “We know that children of all ages love Paw Patrol, so we are certain that this event will be incredibly popular! This is a great opportunity for little ones to meet their Paw Patrol hero and have some fun in-store.”

Skye will be available for free-of-charge meet and greets at The Entertainer in Chesterfield on Saturday 8th July, appearing regularly between 10am to 4pm.

Paw Patrol

Posted in About Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Visiting

More than 3,100 light up streets of Chesterfield for record-breaking fundraiser

A record-breaking number of walkers lit up the streets of Chesterfield for Ashgate Hospice’s popular Sparkle Night Walk fundraiser over the weekend.

Donning pink outfits and flashing bunny ears, more than 3,100 supporters stepped out for the return of the charity’s biggest fundraiser, sponsored by Technique, on Saturday 1st July.

More than £150,000 has already been raised to help fund end-of-life care and support – with the charity hoping to see the figure rise to more than £200,000 in the coming weeks.

The 10k walk began and finished at Chesterfield Football Club’s stadium, with walkers setting off at 10 pm and live entertainment kicking off the party at 7.30 pm.

Amongst those taking part was Malcolm Green, 80, who walked in memory of his daughter Vicky after she died at the hospice in January this year, aged just 50.

Vicky, from Dronfield, had been diagnosed with breast cancer five years before and received “first-class” care at home and in the hospice’s Inpatient Unit.

Malcolm, who was joined by his son-in-law Russ and grandsons, Ben and Toby among other family and friends, said: “Events [like the Sparkle Night Walk] just show how much the hospice means to so many people.

“I must admit the treatment and support Vicky received was absolutely first-class. She only went into the hospice for the last week of her life, but she received care at home for the last three to four months, which helped her with pain relief and other things. It was just so wonderful.

“I’m a member of a walking club so friends have been saying the walk will be a breeze for me, but at 80 years of age, I’m not so sure! There’s about another 12 of us – this is the largest number of participants there’s ever been which is remarkable.”

Elaine Darwent, from Bolsover, took on the walk with family and friends, who collectively raised more than £1,000 for the hospice in memory of her husband, Paul Darwent.

She said: “There’s seven of us here and we’ve raised nearly £1,000 in memory of my husband who was cared for by the community nurses at the end of his life.

“The atmosphere here has been so great and we’ve loved taking part. We’re all so proud to be here in Paul’s memory and hopefully, he’s been looking down on us.”

Paul, who had glioblastoma, a rare and aggressive brain cancer, was cared for at home by the hospice’s nurses until his death in December 2022, aged 65.

Elaine added: “They looked after Paul and also made sure I was okay; they gave me a bit of free time as I was caring for him 24/7.

“When the hospice started caring for Paul it meant I could become his wife again and not just his carer, so we could focus on making lots of memories together. We were together eight years – it was the happiest time of my life.”

Lex Crossett and her eldest son Finn Crossett, from Wingerworth, were joined by family at the walk.

Finn, who uses a wheelchair, has been receiving support at the hospice’s Day Services and signed up for the fundraiser to give something back.

Lex said: “My friend Dawn and I have done the Sparkle Night Walk for the last three years together; last year Ashgate cared for my neighbour before she died and this year our eldest child makes the most of our Day Services.

“It’s so much fun, there’s such a great atmosphere at the Sparkle Night Walk and it’s for such a wonderful cause. We go to the hospice with Finn for a bit of time together – they’re always so friendly and so warm whenever we need a bit of help.”

This year, the event smashed the previous record of 3,052 participants in 2019 as a total of 3,114 supporters turned out on Saturday evening.

The 10km route took walkers from the stadium down the A61 bypass, which was closed to traffic, past the Crooked Spire and through the streets of Chesterfield before returning to the football ground.

Charlotte Gratton, Events and Partnerships Manager at Ashgate Hospice said: “We have been absolutely blown away by the amount of people who turned out for our Sparkle Night Walk on Saturday evening.

“The event was our most popular ever and we’re so grateful to our supporters and volunteers who made it such a huge success.

“It’s always incredible to see the North Derbyshire community come together to help us fund our care, but to see more than 3,000 walkers there on this occasion was extra special.

“The amount of money we’re expected to receive in donations will go such a long way towards being there for the patients and families who need us most.

“Thank you to our main sponsors Technique, other generous sponsors and many local businesses for their generosity and support.

“I would also like to thank everyone behind the scenes, including an army of incredible volunteers – without them, we simply wouldn’t be able to organise such a big and exciting event for all of our supporters to enjoy. We hope to see everyone back again next year!

Super early bird registration for next year’s event has opened and will be available at a reduced rate until 13th August, with the walk set to take place on Saturday 22nd June 2024.

To find out more about next year’s Sparkle Night Walk and to register for the super early bird price of £8 go to: www.ashgatehospice.org.uk/sparkle-night-walk

Images taken by Tom Hodgson Photography

Sparkle Night Walk 2023 Tom Hodgson Photographyby

Sparkle Night Walk 2023 by Tom Hodgson Photography

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Visiting

Vicar Lane to showcase some of Chesterfield’s top independent retailers

Vicar Lane is set to shine a light on its independent retailers throughout July, encouraging shoppers to find out more about the range of goods and services they offer.

This year, the official Independents Day UK campaign to celebrate independently run businesses in high streets across the UK, is having its annual focus across a full weekend, on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd July.

It is because of this, that Vicar Lane will launch a month-long initiative throughout July to celebrate all of the centre’s independent retailers that trade on Steeplegate and introduce shoppers to all their wonderful wares.

In an effort to continue to connect their visitors with the independent stores and the entrepreneurs that run them – the centre will give them some love on the big screen in St James’ Square and across their social media channels.

Followers on the centre’s Instagram channel will be able to catch their ‘Tell us Tuesday’ series across the weeks to be in with a chance to win a £10 voucher.

More details on how to get involved and win can be found on the Vicar Lane website.

Vicar Lane has recently welcomed two new independent retailers to Steeplegate just in time for summer.

Nursery and children’s gifting retailer, The Little Ark, is having great success following its expansion from The Chesterfield Market Hall into Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, having tripled their sales within the first month of trading.

Lovers of all things vintage can now get the goods at YNOT? Vintage. Focused on sustainability and top brands at affordable prices, YNOT? Vintage doesn’t fall short on style from the 80’s and 90’s, which are sourced from all over the UK and beyond.

Sarah Bowler, Tenant and Community Liaison Manager said: “We always strive to support and recognise the positive impact our independent retailers have on our local community so we are really excited to extend the official Independents Day Weekend throughout the entire month of July.

“We are proud to be able to offer a complete range of retail, entertainment and food and beverage outlets that cater for all styles, needs and wishes”.

Throughout July there’ll be plenty going on at Vicar Lane as the centre hosts its Sumer Fest schedule of events. Find out more.

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

vicar lane shopping centre qoozies

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Plastic Free Festival to return with plenty of entertainment and activities

A successful plastic-free festival is set to return for a one-day event in Chesterfield next month.

The free event will take place at New Square from 10am to 4pm on Sunday, July 16, offering craft workshops, food and drinks, live performances and children’s entertainment.

To keep up with the summer festival’s ethos of reducing waste, the tradition continues – attendees are encouraged to bring their own containers, bags, cutlery and cups if possible.

Greg Hewitt, organiser of the Plastic Free Festival, said: “We’re thrilled to be here for another year! We can’t wait to bring another day of brilliant entertainment, wonderful music and important education around single-use plastics.

“Come along, find great plastic-free products, browse the market and enjoy the show.”

The festival aims to champion local sustainable businesses and raise awareness of environmental issues while bringing together like-minded people for a day of fun and celebration.

Greg added: “It’s unfortunate that we had a bad start because of the pandemic, where we went through a lot between last-minute changes and awful weather, but we haven’t let that put a dampener on our spirits.

“I’m sure people will love what we have put together for them this year and appreciate all the hard work and dedication we have put into organising another fantastic event for all the community.”

This year’s event will see an increased selection of reusable cups on offer, from wine goblets to coffee cups, and a bar serving both alcoholic and soft drinks.

Alongside the jam-packed entertainment schedule, there will also be a workshop from entrepreneur Carmel Page, with tips and tricks on how to repair clothes and reduce textile waste.

Greg said: “The impact the festival has had on our community over the last few years is outstanding. Everyone has been so receptive and people have even started changing their ways when it comes to plastic by reducing their usage. It’s amazing to see the difference we are making and that people are taking the message on board.”

Visit the festival’s Facebook page to find out more: https://www.facebook.com/theplasticfreefestival

Find out more about the full range of events and activities taking place across Chesterfield this summer: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

Chesterfield Plastic Free Festival

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New entertainment and activities announced for the Tapton Lock Festival 2023

Now in its eleventh year, organisers have confirmed that the popular Tapton Lock Festival will return this September with a host of new activities and entertainment for families to enjoy.

The free annual event is organised by Junction Arts and Derbyshire County Council, with the aim of bringing families and friends together to enjoy the outdoors, promoting better health and wellbeing.  During the weekend, the Chesterfield Canal comes alive with outdoor theatre, music and dance, arts and crafts workshops, stalls, ‘have a go’ canoes, boat rides and much more.

Family favourites such as the brilliant bubbleologist, circus skills and climbing wall will return but there’ll also be some new entertainment for 2023 including performances and workshops from Bollywood dancers, African drummers, and the Babbling Vagabonds Magical Market Stall!

Visitors will also be able to try their hand at Lego printing, and greenwood crafts or get green-fingered in a seed workshop.

Junction Arts Coordinator Jane Wells said: “Tapton Lock Festival brings together the arts and the outdoors to create an event that is inclusive and accessible to all.  It encourages communities to come together and enjoy the beautiful canal walkways that are on our doorstep.  Working with Derbyshire Countryside Services, each year we aim to bring back the popular activities but also introduce something new…  This year we’re excited to have new performers and activities that will bring even more colour and vibrancy to the festival.

“At Junction Arts, our aim is to build stronger communities through the arts and The Tapton Lock Festival is a great example of this! The festival raises awareness of the area along the Chesterfield Canal and the network of footpaths and cycleways, encouraging people to spend more time in nature with family and friends becoming healthier and happier.”

As part of the festival, Junction Arts will also be doing community outreach with Brimmington Junior School in July.  Pupils will enjoy a trip to the canal to learn all about the flora and fauna of the canal with a countryside ranger.  In September they will also get to work with a local artist to create a piece of artwork that will be displayed at this year’s festival and complete their Arts Award Discover.

For further community engagement, Junction Arts will also commission an ‘artist in residence’ at Chesterfield Football Club to work with a small group of young people who attend Thr1ve, a social prescribing group for young people, part of the Club’s Spireites Trust.

Tapton Lock Festival is a free event that takes place around the Tapton Lock Visitor Centre on the 9th and 10th of September from 11:00 am until 4.00 pm daily.

For more information about how you can get involved, sponsorship and stall opportunities contact jane@junctionarts.org or hannah@junctionarts.org

Find out about the packed schedule of summer events and activities taking place across Chesterfield throughout the summer: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

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

Tapton Lock 2022_Junction Arts_ Photo Credit Nathan Hamer

Image supplied by Nathan Hamer

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New sightseeing bus route will allow visitors to take in stunning views of the Peak District

A new open-top bus tour is being launched in the Peak District, allowing visitors to take in some of the area’s stunning destinations.

Bus operator Stagecoach has announced the new route, which is set to launch from the 1st July 2023.

The hop on, hop off bus service will take passengers on a loop around the White Peak with stops in prime locations including Chatsworth, Bakewell and Hassop station for visitors to the Monsal Trail.

People will be able to take in the picturesque views of the national park’s green hills, gritstone edges and heather-coated moorlands on a loop through several Peak District hotspots.

From Chesterfield, visitors will be able to catch the 170 bus service from the town, and hop onto the the Peak Sightseer at Baslow Nether End.

A Peak Sightseer bus will also depart from from Chesterfield Train Station at 09:10 each day, stopping at Cavendish Street and New Beetwell Street, with the last bus back to Chesterfield leaving Chatsworth House at 18:19.

Download the full Peak Sightseer timetable here.

Matt Kitchin, Managing Director for Stagecoach Yorkshire said: “With some of the most dramatic scenery in the UK, the Peak District is an ideal location for an open top bus experience.”

“The new service allows customers to leave their cars at home, reducing pressure on the local environment while providing a fun, accessible and affordable day out in the countryside”.

The service is part-funded by Derbyshire County Council with government-backed BSIP funding following high demand from the public for better bus connections through the Peak District.

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Assets and Transport, Councillor Charlotte Cupit said: “What better way to see some of Derbyshire’s wonderful scenery and most popular tourist destinations could there be than an open top bus?

“This is going to be a brilliant service to get people out and about without needing to use their car or worry about car parking and we are delighted to be working in partnership with Stagecoach on this innovative project.

“The funding we have had from the Government is giving us the opportunity to support new services like these – please give it a try and visit some of our fantastic Peak District attractions this summer.”

Roads Minister, Richard Holden said: “People up and down the country deserve a modern, reliable, and affordable public transport system. That is why we have provided Derbyshire County Council with £47 million to boost its bus services.

“Supporting Stagecoach in launching a new open top bus tour is great for local residents and tourists, who will now enjoy an even better way to take in some of the most breath-taking views the Peak District has to offer.”

Tickets are available to buy on the bus with an adult day ticket costing just £6.

Group tickets are also available for £15 with a £5 discount on offer to Chatsworth visitors with a ticket to the house.

For more information visit www.stagecoachbus.com or follow @stagecoachyrks on Twitter.

Are you visiting the Peak District and Derbyshire this summer? Find out more about the wide range of events and activities taking place in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

Chatsworth House

Chatsworth House

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , , ,

Derbyshire tourism attractions win prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence

Five tourism businesses from across the Peak District and Derbyshire are celebrating success after winning coveted accolades – including two prestigious Gold awards – at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023.

The finalists competed against hundreds of tourism businesses from across the country to reach the awards ceremony which was hosted by TV presenter Alex Polizzi at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter on Wednesday 7 June.

Top spots were taken by the Blind Bull at Little Hucklow near Buxton, who won the Gold Pub of the Year award, and Peak District-based outdoor activity provider Pure Outdoor, winners of the Gold Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award.

National recognition was also received by Great British Car Journey in Ambergate, who won the Bronze New Tourism Business of the Year award; Wildhive Callow Hall near Ashbourne, winners of the Bronze Small Hotel of the Year award; and myGuidedWalks, who won the Bronze Experience of the Year award for their Peak District Walking Experience.

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence champion quality, innovation and best practice across the tourism industry, recognising businesses and individuals who raise the bar of England’s tourism offer.

This year’s awards aligned with 16 local competitions from across England, including the 2023 Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards organised by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence represent the highest accolades in English tourism and so we’re incredibly proud that the Peak District and Derbyshire has received national recognition with not one but five prestigious awards.

“These awards are a timely reminder of the value and quality of our world-class tourism offer, and of the commitment and dedication of the talented businesses and individuals who work so hard to provide visitors with experiences to remember.

“Winning at an aligned local competition is the only way to qualify for these national awards, so we encourage businesses to look out for applications opening for the 2024 awards in the coming weeks.”

Raab Dykstra-McCarthy, Owner and Manager of The Blind Bull, Gold winners in the Pub of the Year category, said: “We are over the moon to win Gold in the Pub of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. For a small, independently owned pub in a tiny village in the heart of the glorious Peak District, to be recognised nationally, after being open for less than three years, is just such an incredible feeling and rather unbelievable. Full credit goes to our wonderful team who really are the heart and soul of The Blind Bull. Finally, a huge thank you to our customers for continuing to support us!”

Guy Wilson, Founder of Pure Outdoor, Gold winners in the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism category, said: “We’re so pleased to receive the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Gold Award at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. We’re passionate about being a better business and look to continue developing in this area over the coming years. I’d like to thank all staff involved in growing our business not just for profit, but for people and the planet too.”

Richard Usher, Founder and CEO of Great British Car Journey, Bronze winners in the New Tourism Business of the Year category, said: “What a phenomenal journey the last two years have been for Great British Car Journey. To be recognised in the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence has just blown us all away. We knew we had something special when we opened the museum in May 2021, but to have it confirmed is wonderful.
“It’s onwards and upwards for Great British Car Journey. We have many exciting plans in the pipeline which will ensure we continue to stand out in both the classic car and visitor attraction market.”

Paul Smith, Founder and Guide at myGuidedWalks, Bronze winners in the Experience of the Year category, said: “MyGuidedWalks are thrilled to have won Bronze for Experience of the Year at the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. This is a huge honour for us, and we are so grateful to our customers, family, friends and other Peak District and Derbyshire businesses for their support. A big special thanks also to the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire team for their support and training over the last 5 years.
“At myGuidedWalks, we are committed to providing unforgettable walking and nature based experiences in the Peak District National Park for our guests, and we will continue to work hard to make www.myGuidedWalks.co.uk the best it can be.”

Ed Burrows D.L., Co-Founder of Wildhive Callow Hall, Bronze winners in the Small Hotel of the Year category, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have received an award for Wildhive Callow Hall at this year’s VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. The team are so proud to receive such recognition from the panel of judges as one of the top hotels in the country. Everyone involved with Wildhive has worked so hard to open the hotel and ensure amazing experiences for our guests and now as we approach our two year anniversary this September, we have lots to celebrate!”

Great British Car Journey - Bronze Winners in the New Tourism Business of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023.

Great British Car Journey – Bronze Winners in the New Tourism Business of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023. Image by VisitBritain, Daniela Luquini

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

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