Chesterfield Heritage Open Days
Heritage Open Days
Heritage Open Days is a national festival. Every September, organisations and volunteers across the country organise events to celebrate the country’s history, culture and community. Stories are told, traditions explored, and histories brought to life. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – and it’s all free.
Elder Yard Unitarian Chapel
Elder Unitarian Chapel, Elder Way, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 1UR
Explore this unspoilt 17th Century Chapel which features original pews, alter and organ. The oldest chapel in Derbyshire, it has a historical graveyard as well as many notable town figures remembered there. There is also a collection of Pearson’s Pottery and beautiful stained glass windows to see, plus various other artefacts usually not available to view.
St John the Baptist’s Church, Ault Hucknall
Ault Hucknall Church, Ault Hucknall Village, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S44 5QH
This Grade I listed church is the burial place of Thomas Hobbes and is a Saxon foundation church in England’s smallest village. Come and explore Norman carvings, Smythson and Butterfield woodwork and medieval glass.
St Peter & St Paul Church, Discover the history of our Church and the people associated with it
The Treemendous Trees of Spital Cemetary
Railway Pioneers, Workers and Incidents
Freemasons’ Hall
Freemasons’ Hall, 72 Saltergate, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 1JR
The Doors are open and you are cordially invited to view the interior of Freemasons’ Hall and be shown round by members of the Lodges. There has been a history of Freemasonry in Chesterfield dating back to 1762 and anyone who comes along can expect to find out all about the the rich past and explore the fascinating building.
St James the Greater Church
St James the Greater Church, Church Street, Barlborough, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S43 4ER
What do you know about the historic village of Barlborough? Perhaps you’ve recently moved there or have lived there for year. But, do you know its history? Have you ever been in the church? In partnership with Barlborough Heritage Centre, St James church is opening up its doors and putting on a special history exhibition about the church and its surrounding historic buildings such as the Old Rectory and Barlborough Hospital (Almshouses). Local experts will be on hand to share their knowledge. Refreshments will be available.
Available any time.
Stainsby Mill
Stainsby Mill, Heath, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S44 5RW
For hundreds of years, Stainsby has occupied this site in varying forms. Over time, this water mill has provided flour to locals and to the Hardwick Estate.
On your visit, explore free-flow or enjoy informative tours from our knowledgeable Mill guides. Whether your interest is industrial, social or historical, Stainsby offers an immersive experience for all.
Though the Mill is not currently producing flour, visitors can enjoy an insight into mill life.
Between 1849-50 the mainly wooden machinery including the wheel was replaced by the more modern cast and wrought iron. This is the wheel you can see today on your visit to Stainsby.
Hardwick Hall
Hardwick Hall, Doe Lea, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S44 5QJ
Hear introductory talks at the Main Hall on the West Court Logia, running at quarter to and quarter past the hour, starting at 10:45am and finishing at 2:15pm. The introductory talks will offer an interesting overview of Bess of Hardwick and her ambitious rise to become not only a Countess but, also, the second richest woman in Elizabethan England.
Keeping with the Elizabethan theme there will be Natural dye demonstrations and craft activities in the East Stables between 10am-3pm. The Specialist craft team demonstrations will also be running in the Stableyard cart shed. Find out more about the work of the specialist craft teams including carpenters and masons, who help care for the National Trust collections and historic properties. Members of the teams will be available to talk to and answer questions about the skilled work they complete.
