Summer

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

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

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 Railway 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

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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, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

This weekend’s Chesterfield Canal Festival to include Spitfire and Hurricane flypasts

A host of attractions, including flypasts from old World War Two aircraft will be on display at this weekend’s Chesterfield Canal Festival. 

The event, which takes place on Saturday and Sunday (24th & 25th June) at Staveley Town Basin, will also feature a dog show on both days.

On Saturday 24th at 16.41 there will be a flypast by a Spitfire. On Sunday 25th at 14.30 there will be a flypast by a Hurricane.

Attendees can have a go at numerous activities, including archery, axe throwing, air rifle shooting, canoeing or zorbing. Children will be able to have a go on a mini-digger.

All four of the Chesterfield Canal Trust’s tripboats will be in action; two of which have wheelchair lifts.

In addition, there will be Birds of Prey, Children’s rides, Water Walking Balls, Bumper Boats, Spinning Bumper Carz, Newfoundland Rescue Dogs, Face painting, Aerial exercise, Craft stalls, Charity stalls, lots of Food stalls and a Real Ale bar.

The Trust’s Development Manager will also be holding Q&A sessions in the marquee about the plans for the restoration of the canal.

Free entertainment will include music, dance and street theatre all day, both in the big marquee and outside by the lock.

Admission will be £6, free for Under 16s. There will be free parking nearby with parking for blue badge holders onsite. There are several bus routes that pass withing 200 metres. The whole site is accessible to wheelchairs.

There will be separate concerts on the Friday and Saturday nights, starting at 7.30 p.m. Friday will see the return of the ever-popular Swing Commanders, whilst Saturday will feature Chesterfield’s own WonderWhys. Tickets for both concerts are available from the Chesterfield Canal Trust website.

On Monday 26th June, there will be a flotilla of all four tripboats from Staveley Basin right up the canal to Tapton and back, with stops at Hollingwood Hub and Tapton Lock, covering 10 miles and 11 locks. Go to the Chesterfield Canal Trust website to book.

On Tuesday 27th June, there will be a What, Where and When Restoration Walk to show how the canal’s route looks at present before the major restoration works start next year.

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

Canal Festival 2

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Medieval Fun Day in Chesterfield promises a packed day of entertainment

Residents and visitors are invited to a packed day of entertainment, as the popular Medieval Fun Day returns to Chesterfield in July.

Taking place on Tuesday 25 July from 10am to 4pm, the free event will be hosted in Chesterfield’s Market Place where you will be able to enjoy a range of stalls selling a variety of goods as well as fun and games for children.

The Market Square will also welcome back Proctor’s Fun Fair with a variety of rides and side shows.

The star of the show this year is Epico the Dragon, he is big, bright and magical, and visitors will all be able to have their photo with him if they’d like to, so don’t forget to bring your camera or phone to capture your meeting.

Head to the Medieval encampment in the grounds of the Crooked Spire Church to see living history with knights and ladies, a troop march and even a skirmish or two. Plus, visitors can look out for a Tudor musician, a jester and a storyteller around the town centre too.

The museum team will also be on hand to showcase Medieval handling objects as well as crafts and a fletcher (a maker of arrows).

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s, Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy, said: “This is a great day out for all the family. There are not many things you can do for free to entertain the kids, so this makes the Medieval Fun Day even more special.

“By visiting the event you can step back in time to the Middle Ages, and see history brought to life by the different re-enactors. This event attracts crowds from Chesterfield and beyond, so please allow extra time to park in one of our local car parks, or consider using public transport instead.”

To support the Medieval Fun Day this year, Little Hummingbird Events, will be hosting around 35 additional market stalls in New Square featuring a range of unique products created by makers and crafters.

Nicola Hudson, a director of Little Hummingbird Events, said: “We pride ourselves in supporting the small independents and the crafters amongst us. Makers Markets are becoming increasingly popular with gifts and items that are simply not found elsewhere on the high street. Often these makers create products in their downtime or as a hobby but for some it is their livelihood. We are passionate about supporting them with a platform to trade and we are all excited about being part of the wonderfully successful Medieval Fun Day in the heart of Chesterfield.”

So far stalls booked include leather makers, crocheters, knitters, resin jewellery, dog tags and accessories. There will also be pies, breads and savouries and some sweet bakers too.

More information about both the Fun Day and the additional market will be shared closer to the time.

Medieval Fun Day 2022

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , ,

Celebrate the life of George Stephenson in Chesterfield

An event in Chesterfield will allow visitors to learn more about the life of George Stephenson and celebrate his local connections.

Chesterfield Museum and Holy Trinity Church have partnered together to deliver this free event. A reenactor will bring Georges’s story to life.  It takes place on Saturday 17 June from 10am to 4pm.

Holy Trinity Church is George Stephenson’s final resting place.  You will be able to see his memorial and the stunning stained-glass window, a commission by his son Robert. There will be talks, children’s activities, and the chance to explore objects such as a model of the famous rocket and a replica cucumber straightener. There will be handling objects and Victorian costumes to try. Refreshments and other activities will also be available.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “After partnering successfully with the church last year to host this event, I’m delighted that we are able to work with them again to help local people learn more about Stephenson and his time in Chesterfield. This is a fantastic event for the whole family to come along and enjoy.”

Reverend Jill Hancock of Holy Trinity Church said: “It’s great to help local people connect with our town’s heritage. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase George Stephenson and to see both his final resting place and the incredible stained-glass window. I hope lots of people come along because there will be activities for the whole family to enjoy.”

The event is free to enter with donations requested for Chesterfield Foodbank.

George Stephenson Statue

Summer in Chesterfield

There are lots of ways to make memories in Chesterfield this summer.  To discover more events, festivals, and ideas of things to do visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer.

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

Young people help create ‘Garden of Imagination’ for new Festival

Children from Spire Junior School, Sharley Park Community Primary School, and New Bolsover Primary School have been working with artists to create an immersive art piece called The Garden of Imagination.

Junction Arts have commissioned the  ‘Garden of Imagination’ for the Chesterfield Children’s Festival. Theatre practitioner Monika Johnson, musician Phil Pearson and visual artist Rachel Scanlon are creating the immersive art piece.

Taking the form of a children’s bedroom at the festival for children to enjoy and engage with. There will be elements to play with, including sound sensors and fantasy characters.

The artists spoke to local primary schools to share ideas with the children about childhood and play. Collecting stories from the children to create a performance that will run alongside the “Garden of Imagination”.

Artist Monika Johnson said: “We are excited to work with Junction Arts to create a new immersive children’s theatre piece.

“We are creating a bedroom outside! It’s a bit of a tipsy topsy dream-like setting with some strange items in unusual places. We hope that families will enjoy interacting and playing with our set.   They will be able to change the music and sound effects themselves and become part of the performance.

Chesterfield Children’s Festival

The Chesterfield Children’s Festival will take place at Queen’s Park on the 29th and 30th of July, from 10 am – 4 pm daily.

The festival is free to attend and will have family-friendly acts and activities taking place over the weekend. These will include a silent disco tour, an interactive game zone, a comedy club, circus skills, storytime yoga, tie-dye workshops, face painting, and live music.

Music and live theatre will also take place in and around the town centre during the festival weekend.

For more information visit: www.junctionarts.org or follow Junction Arts on social media @JunctionArtsUK

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.

Garden of Imagination workshop at Spire Junior

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Enjoy outdoor dining in Chesterfield’s picturesque pubs, bars and restaurants

Summer is a great time to enjoy quality time with loved ones, soaking up the sunshine with outdoor dining in a picturesque pub, bar, or restaurant.

Luckily here in Chesterfield, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to enjoying food & drink outdoors. From alfresco dining to brilliant beer gardens and cocktails on the terrace.

Whether you’re looking for delicious food, beautiful scenery, or a nice coffee and cake, our town has the perfect places for you.

To find out more about all the great activities and events in the local area this summer, check out our Summer in Chesterfield page! Meanwhile, remember to share the love on social media by telling us what you’ve been up to, using the hashtags #SummerInChesterfield and #LoveChesterfield!

Peak Edge Hotel

peak edge hotel wood fired pizza

The Peak Edge Hotel offers diners a luxury experience, set in the beautiful North Derbyshire countryside. The venue is sporting a new look, having recently replaced all its outdoor garden furniture.

There is also a new outdoor kitchen at the hotel, with a wood-fired pizza oven giving a true alfresco experience.

Complete with patio heaters and parasols, the hotel’s outdoor terraces can seat up to 60 people. In addition, the terraces overlook the iconic Peak District National Park, where visitors can often spot local wildlife such as deer.

Find out more at: https://www.peakedgehotel.co.uk/

Tickled Trout, Barlow

The Tickled Trout alfresco dining

Another picturesque restaurant set amongst the gorgeous North Derbyshire scenery is The Tickled Trout, Barlow. The restaurant has a small but perfectly-formed terrace, ideal for outdoor dining.

The terrace holds the sun all day, which is ideal for soaking up some rays with a nice cold beer or refreshing gin & tonic. The outdoor terrace benches also have parasols if you prefer the shade.

The full menu is served Tuesday-Saturday. In addition, The Tickled Trout serves its popular roast & pizza menu on Sundays.

Booking is recommended – reserve a table online at: www.tickledtroutbarlow.com

Chatsworth Kitchen

Chatsworth Kitchen

Located just five minutes from Chatsworth, Peak Village is in the charming village of Rowsley.

The restaurant is a relaxed and welcoming place to enjoy delicious seasonal dishes. What’s more, the food is sourced from the farms and gardens at Chatsworth.

Brunch and lunch options are included on the menu. You can also treat yourself to freshly baked cakes, expertly brewed coffee and a selection of cocktails, wines and local ales.

https://www.chatsworthkitchen.co.uk/

Dronfield Hall Barn

This hidden gem coffee shop in Dronfield, is delightful to meet family and friends enjoying outdoor dining in the courtyard or beautifully maintained gardens.

Treat yourself to a wide selection of drinks, with the barn’s famous fresh scones baked daily. Dronfield Hall Barn also offers light lunches, delightful afternoon teas, and tasty treats.

Furthermore, don’t forget to check out Dronfield Hall Barn’s special events, such as their popular Artisan and Makers Market where you can pick up some treats to take home with you too!

Find out more at: https://dronfieldhallbarn.org/coffee-shop/

The Rose and Crown, Brampton

Rose And Crown outdoor

One of the Chesterfield pubs owned by the renowned Brampton Brewery, The Rose and Crown offers a fabulous range of local and guest drinks.

The pub has a spacious outdoor terrace at the front and rear, which also includes sheltered areas.

Find out more on the pub’s Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/roseandcrownbrampton/

DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park

Doubletree by Hilton Sheffield Park outdoor alfresco dining

Enjoy a relaxed outdoor atmosphere at the DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park.

The open patio and green space are equipped with comfortable furniture, so you can enjoy a chilled drink in the summer sun.

In the evening, guests can take in the sunset surrounded by twinkle lights and heaters. Order premium drinks and cocktails from the Lounge Bar you can even treat yourself to a delicious sharing platter too!

The Lounge Bar and patio area is open every evening throughout the week. Visit the website: www.doubletreesheffield.com for more information.

Hollingwood Hub at Chesterfield Canal

Hollingwood Hub

Those who have been for a walk or bike ride along Chesterfield Canal will know just what a gorgeous location it is! An ideal stop-off point is the Hollingwood Hub, where you’ll find Katey’s Coffee Shop.

Enjoy a range of fabulous homemade products and gorgeous scenery while out on your stroll. The menu includes drinks, sandwiches, light meals, ice creams and a selection of cakes. Perfect to replenish and refresh after all that exercise.

Find out more at: https://chesterfield-canal-trust.org.uk/off-the-water/hollingwood-hub-2/

Junction Bar

junction outdoor alfresco

Junction Bar, located on Chatsworth Road is heading into its 7th year of trading. It underwent an exciting facelift and rebrand in January.

Very much focused on drinks, they offer a light lunch menu during the week. In addition, guests can find pop-up food vendors on Thursday evenings throughout the summer.

Live music is also on show every Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Find out more at: www.junction-bar.co.uk.

Qoozies

Qoozies

Qoozies is all about good mood food in laid-back surroundings, including a seated outdoor dining area in the centre of Chesterfield.

Offering nutritious, yet delicious bites and drinks, their range of mouth-watering choices includes all day breakfasts, unique Qoozies burgers, loaded salad bowls, and sandwiches.

Furthermore, visitors can treat themselves to pancakes and house-baked sweet treats. And to keep you hydrated on a hot summer day, try their vitamin-packed smoothies, juices and milkshakes.

Find out more online at: https://qoozies.com/

Looking for more activities to make the most of your free time this summer? Head over to https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/ for more ideas and information.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Leisure, Summer, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Chesterfield-made fruit liqueur products to be featured on ITV’s Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh

A Chesterfield drinks producer is set to showcase some of the town’s fabulous local produce on TV’s Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh.

Hogg Norton’s gooseberry liqueur will be featured on the ITV 1 show, which will be aired on Sunday, 4th June. The product is made by the company here in Chesterfield, amongst a wide range of tasty fruit liqueurs.

All of the Gooseberries used in the product are grown in Chesterfield around the Holymoorside area.

Michael Norton, Co-Founder of Hogg Norton said: “It is amazing to see our products on the TV. It showcases what we produce, especially as it is all from Chesterfield and also the quality of our products as well.

“This is the second time with Andy and Alan on Love Your Weekend, as the Cherry flavour was on the show last year. We have also previously featured in the Great British Menu with our Sloe and Rhubarb liqueur too.

Michael added that he is proud to be putting Chesterfield on the map with his products: “What we produce in Chesterfield, and the fact that nearly all the fruit we use is from Chesterfield really gives that local link, which to us is very important. I feel makes us stand out in the industry.

“We have also been showcased previously by winning eight Great Taste Awards and two Great British Food awards, which is also testament to the quality of our liqueurs.

“Buying local is so important to any local producer. The passion and quality that goes into our products, and the fact that it is made locally with local ingredients really is something to be proud of. For locals to buy something which is from their area makes it that extra bit special.”

The guests joining Alan Titchmarsh on the show will be Lesley Joseph, Dan Walker, Anne Reid and Nancy Carol, with Andy Clarke (pictured right) hosting the cocktail session.

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

alan titchmarsh hogg norton

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Featured, Home, Leisure, Summer, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Create memories to last a lifetime this summer in Chesterfield

Make memories in Chesterfield this summer – with a packed events line up, including new family festivals, the return of some old favourites and lots of activities that everyone can take part in.

Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield have today launched Summer in Chesterfield, a campaign that will highlight all the fantastic things happening across the town this summer.

The campaign will support the town’s businesses by promoting what is happening in and around Chesterfield on social media, via website content and e-newsletters to communicate to as many residents, visitors and business owners as possible. There will also be prizes to win throughout the summer.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy said: “Chesterfield has so much to offer, that it’s easy to plan fun things to do to make memories with your friends and families. We’ve got some great ticketed events which are new to Chesterfield but also the return of some familiar favourites. But we’ll also be promoting some great free activities and events to help ensure everyone can make memories together this summer.

“We have fantastic parks, lots of places to picnic, markets to wander around and a range of events many of which have no cost attached at all. The popular Medieval Fun Day will include a range of entertainment around the town, and many people return year after year to attend this.”

Peter Swallow, Destination Chesterfield Chair, said: “This summer is a great opportunity to create memories to last a lifetime in our beautiful market town, while supporting our fabulous independent retailers and venues.

“With an abundance of events and activities coming to Chesterfield to match all tastes, there has never been a better time to support our town and help showcase what an excellent visitor destination we have. Hopefully, we will get a nice dose of sunshine to go with them too!”

Events and festivals

Summer in Chesterfield events

Chesterfield is welcoming back popular events, but there are also some new events to make memories at this summer.

The BRM Solicitors Chesterfield Festival of Cricket, will return to Queen’s Park from 11 – 18 June, with the T20 game on Sunday 18 June expected to sell out once again.

Chesterfield Canal Festival will see all four tripboats in action over the weekend of 24 – 25 June, with two having wheelchair lifts, as well as concerts in the evening canoeing, mini diggers and more.

The Plastic Free Festival returns on Sunday 16 July, where you can learn how to reduce your single use plastic and have a fun family day out with craft workshops, kids entertainment, food, drink, and live performances.

Indulge in street food as well as enjoying live music and bubble magicians at the free two-day Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival which takes place in Queen’s Park from 22- 23 July.

One of the biggest pride festivals in the region, Chesterfield Pride will take place in Stand Road Park once again on 23 July, featuring headline acts A1 and Tinchy Stryder.

The popular Medieval Fun Day is returning to entertain the crowds on Tuesday 25 July, from 10am to 4pm in Chesterfield town centre. The Market Place will be full of stalls selling a range of goods as well as fun and games for children in the same location. Head to the medieval encampment in the grounds of the Crooked Spire Church to see knights in battle or look out for the medieval themed entertainment, including Epico the Dragon, a jester and a Tudor musician, across the town centre.

Celebrate imagination and play at the Children’s Festival, organised by Junction Arts from 29 – 30 July with entertainment to include a circus, story time yoga, silent disco and much more.

For foodies, tribute bands and local musicians, head to Eat in the Park in Queen’s Park from 5 – 6 August.

You can find out more about all the events happening and how you can get involved on the Summer in Chesterfield page: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer

Great outdoors

Summer in Chesterfield outdoors

If you are a fan of the great outdoors there is a lot to experience from cycling adventures to, big hikes and even paddle sports with many activities being free to go along to.

Chesterfield has a range of organised walks throughout the week that are open to everyone, and two Parkruns for those who fancy something slightly more involved. You can also find local self-led walking routes that will take you into the countryside and Peak District through the Summer in Chesterfield campaign.

Get out on the water with the Chesterfield Canal Trust and try out paddle sports or cruise up the historic canal on one of the trust’s tripboats. You can also take in an unrivalled view of the town and the surrounding countryside with a tower tour at the Crooked Spire.

Shopping and markets

Summer in Chesterfield shopping

Visitors will be able to enjoy one of the country’s leading street food markets when Peddler Market takes over New Square from 23 June – 24 June. Come along to sample award winning street food, craft drinks, music, art, and family activities.

Chesterfield not only has regular markets on Monday, Friday, and Saturdays from 9am to 4pm, but we also have one of the largest flea markets in the country every Thursday. A variety of specialist markets are taking place throughout the year too including the record fair, artisan market, young person’s market, and the vegan market amongst others.

Shopping in Chesterfield is a great experience both in the town centre and just outside on Chatsworth Road and Whittington Moor. We have a number of well-known chain stores, and a fantastic selection of independent retailers who are happy to offer gift advice where needed. The Summer in Chesterfield campaign includes details of 50 independent retailers to try.

Food and drink

Pizza pi

If you are planning a special family meal out, or a night out with friends there are many different food and drink venues in Chesterfield for you to experience.

Check out the Summer in Chesterfield campaign’s blog detailing 50 different restaurants, cafes and bars to try.

For more ideas to make memories with family and friends this summer in Chesterfield, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer.

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Unusual markings designed to ‘ward off witches’ discovered at historic Chesterfield landmark

A series of unusual markings on the fireplace at Chesterfield’s Revolution House have been officially confirmed as protection marks designed to ward off witches.

The apotropaic markings (commonly referred to as anti-witch marks) depict a double ‘V’ which is a reference to the Virgin Mary Protector of Life and Family. Markings like this were usually placed near openings or windows with the intention of keeping witches and evil spirits out.

The unusual markings were spotted by one of the museum team who photographed them and sent the images to Professor Ronald Hutton, who kindly identified them.

Professor Ronald Hutton, a professor at the University of Bristol and leading authority on folklore, said: “These are convincing examples of apotropaic markings. The interlocked VVs are absolutely standard. The others are harder to make out but could correspond to more than one other known type of mark in the repertoire.”

Revolution House was originally constructed as a farmhouse in the 16th century and later became an inn during the 17th century – during this period there was a heightened belief in witches and witchcraft.

On Sunday 11 June Revolution House will be hosting a Witchcraft event. Visitors will be able to learn all about the 17th century witch hunts and get hands on to create their own witch pot.

Like apotropaic markings, witch pots were believed to protect your family and house from an attack by a witch’s curse and ensure you came to no harm.

Witch Marks at Revolution House

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We already knew that Revolution House had a rich history but this is an interesting discovery that tells us more about the people who have used the building in the past.

“We’ve been planning the Witchcraft event for a while and this discovery makes it even more relevant – the event is set to be a great day out for everyone and I hope lots of you will come along and make your own witch pot.”

The Witchcraft event is free to attend but donations are welcome and takes place on Sunday 11 June between 11am and 4pm. Creating a witch pot will be a drop-in session and visitors will be treated on a first come first served basis.

Other events are planned at the house each month throughout the summer including the return of legendary Tudor Minstrel Dante Ferrara, a demonstration of the healing properties of herbs and a display showing a selection of the council’s collection of sketches and art by Joseph Syddall.

You can find out more about Revolution House and the events planned by visiting: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/explore-chesterfield/revolution-house

Revolution House

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