chesterfield tourism

Chesterfield Champions among the shortlist for Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards

Chesterfield Champions, Matlock Farm Park and Peak Edge Hotel have been nominated as finalists for the 2024 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards.

The full shortlist has been revealed, showcasing excellence and outstanding achievement across the area’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Finalists have been announced in 14 awards categories celebrating the best of the local visitor economy, ranging from hotels, B&Bs and campsites to pubs, visitor attractions and unique experiences.

Matlock Farm Park has been shortlisted for a total of three awards, including the Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award, Team of the Year, and Visitor Attraction of the Year.

Chesterfield’s Peak Edge Hotel has been nominated for the coveted Hotel of the Year award.

Shortlisted businesses will now go forward to the final round of independent judging before winners are revealed at a glittering awards ceremony at the Museum of Making in Derby on Thursday 7th March 2024.

Organised by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, in collaboration with Visit Derby as the region’s official Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), the 2024 awards celebrate the success and resilience of tourism businesses whilst highlighting the sector’s vital contribution to the local economy.

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.

Following the awards ceremony, Gold winners in each of the 13 core categories will automatically progress onto the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2024, which represent the highest accolades in English tourism.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “The Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards are a celebration of the passionate, hardworking and innovative businesses who continually raise the bar of our world-class tourism offer.

“Not only do the awards showcase the sheer quality of our tourism experiences to visitors from across the country, but they also serve as a timely reminder of the value of our visitor economy and the important role the industry plays in making the destination such a great place to live, work and visit.

“We’ve received a record number of applications this year and reaching this impressive lift of finalists is an achievement in itself. We look forward to celebrating with our finalists and partners at the awards ceremony in 2024.”

Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby Tourism Awards: The 2024 Shortlist

Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award

  • Hoe Grange Holidays, Brassington
  • LEVEL Centre, Rowsley
  • Matlock Farm Park, Matlock

B&B and Guest House of the Year

  • The Coach House, Derby
  • Sheldon House, Monyash
  • Underleigh House B&B, Hope

Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year

  • Darwin Forest Lodges, Matlock
  • Longnor Wood Holiday Park, Longnor, nr Buxton
  • Rivendale Lodge Retreat, Ashbourne

Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award

  • Hoe Grange Holidays, Brassington
  • Manor House Farm Cottages, Bakewell
  • Pure Outdoor, Bamford

Experience of the Year

  • Great British Car Journey, Ambergate
  • Pub Tours Ltd, Darley Dale
  • Pure Outdoor, Bamford

Hotel of the Year

  • The Maynard, Grindleford
  • Peak Edge Hotel, Chesterfield
  • Wildhive Callow Hall, Ashbourne

New Tourism Business of the Year

  • The Bull I’ Th’ Thorn, nr Buxton
  • Muse Escapes Ltd, Buxton
  • Pub Tours Ltd, Darley Dale

Pub of the Year

  • The Blind Bull, Great Longstone
  • The George, Hathersage
  • The Prince of Wales, Baslow

Self Catering Accommodation of the Year

  • Hoe Grange Holidays, Brassington
  • Stainsborough Hall Ltd, Carsington
  • Waterside Barn, Bradbourne

Taste of the Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Award

  • Fischer’s Baslow Hall, Baslow
  • The Maynard, Grindleford
  • The Patternmakers, Duffield

Team of the Year

  • The George, Hathersage
  • Matlock Farm Park, Matlock
  • Muse Escapes, Buxton

Tourism Young Achiever

  • Helena Smith Parucker, The Museum of Making
  • Steph Taylor, Atlantik Inns
  • Emma West, Longbow Bars and Restaurants

Unsung Hero

  • Adrian Gagea, Longbow Bars and Restaurants
  • Alan Hobson, The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop
  • Jane Redfern, Wildhive Callow Hall

Visitor Attraction of the Year

  • The Children’s Country House at Sudbury, Sudbury
  • Matlock Farm Park, Matlock
  • The Museum of Making, Derby

For more details see: https://www.visitpeakdistrict.com/industry/events/category/tourism-awards. Join the conversation on social media using #PDDDTourismAwards.

Peak Edge Hotel, Matlock Farm Park and Visit Peak District & Derbyshire support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Matlock Farm Park

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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

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Derbyshire tourism organisations receive new national accreditation

The two organisations responsible for leading on the promotion, marketing and development of the visitor economy in the Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby have formed a partnership that has been recognised by VisitEngland – in a government programme to establish a new structure for the tourism industry.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire and Visit Derby have come together as Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby to receive official Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) status from VisitEngland.

The LVEP programme is a new national portfolio of strategic and high-performing tourism bodies that work in collaboration with local, regional and national stakeholders on shared priorities to support and grow the visitor economy.

LVEP accreditation recognises tourism bodies that can play a critical role in place-shaping, providing effective leadership and management of their destination and ensuring the area is inclusive, accessible and sustainable for visitors both nationally and internationally.

The creation of LVEPs was part of the UK Government’s response to the recommendations of ‘The De Bois Review’, to reshape destination management across England, reducing fragmentation and bringing coherence to its tourism landscape.

As well as a nationally recognised official status, LVEPs will also be able to access expert advice, dedicated toolkits and training programmes from VisitBritain/VisitEngland in areas ranging from distribution, accessibility and sustainability to business support and marketing.

Importantly, LVEPs will also be able to bid for Government funding streams to support the growth of the visitor economy in their area.

Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby has joined the LVEP programme as one of 12 new partnerships alongside Marketing Cheshire, Experience Oxfordshire, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Visit Hull and East Yorkshire, Visit West, Marketing Manchester, Visit Hertfordshire, Visit Kent, Liverpool City Region, Cumbria Tourism, and Birmingham, Solihull and the Black Country.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire says: “Receiving Local Visitor Economy Partnership status is fantastic news for the Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby. Not only does this official accreditation reflect the effectiveness of our strategic approach to growing the county’s visitor economy, but the wide-ranging support we offer to tourism businesses.

“Great destinations are great places to live, work and visit and it’s essential that we work collaboratively to develop our offer and secure further investment. We are very proud to be at the forefront of delivering the ambitions of the De Bois review and welcome the role that we can play in driving forward change, working closely with our partners and local authorities.

“Having this official status will help us grow our visitor economy further, and will ensure the Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby continues to be a compelling destination for both domestic and international visitors.”

Derbyshire County Council Leader Councillor Barry Lewis said: “We strongly backed this LVEP application and to hear it has been successful is wonderful news which will be welcomed by everyone involved in the county’s tourism sector.

“We already have a thriving tourism industry and strong local visitor economy but this will provide a huge boost to the excellent work that is already being carried out by all the partners involved, who continue to attract millions of visitors to our beautiful and varied county from across the country and much further afield.

“The national recognition will lead to more collaborative working locally, regionally and nationally, better access to extra funding and expert advice on hand from VisitBritain/VisitEngland, ensuring every opportunity can be taken to support, promote and grow this valuable sector which benefits so many.”

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “VisitEngland is delighted to welcome onto the programme the 12 new LVEPs, who will play a central role in transforming the visitor economy in England in an inclusive, accessible and sustainable way. Ensuring we have the right national and local infrastructure in place to grow our visitor economy will ensure England continues to be a compelling destination, for both domestic and international visitors, for years to come.

“We look forward to working in collaboration with the LVEPs, providing ongoing support including a team of dedicated VisitEngland regional development leads. LVEPs will also have access to resources and guidance from VisitBritain/VisitEngland in areas including product distribution, business support, bidding for funding and marketing.”

VisitEngland welcomed the first three LVEPs, NewcastleGateshead Initiative, Visit County Durham and Visit Northumberland, into the programme earlier this year. They form the pilot Destination Development Partnership (DDP) in the North East of England, led by NewcastleGateshead Initiative, first announced by the UK Government in November 2022. The pilot is a valuable opportunity to prove the DDP concept and the impact the model can have on growing the visitor economy, strengthening the case for future funding.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire and Visit Derby will work closely with VisitEngland during the LVEP set-up process and beyond, with ongoing support from a dedicated VisitEngland regional development lead.

staying tourists

 

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Matlock Farm Park announces exciting 20th anniversary celebrations

Matlock Farm Park, located between Matlock and Chesterfield, is looking forward to celebrating its 20th birthday in April with its visitors.

The attraction has come a long way since humble beginnings, recently winning for the second year running Visit Peak District & Derbyshire’s Visitor Attraction of the Year, as well as their Accessible & Inclusive Tourism award and Best Event for their annual Peak District Highland Games from the National Farm Attractions Network.

Managing Director and founder Allan Finlay said: “We’ve really surpassed everything we set out to do. My background was hospitality and my wife Virginia has always been in farming – we started the park off just as a little something to do together. I look now at what we offer and feel immensely proud, especially of our team who work hard to deliver a great experience. Seeing children and adults happy when they’re with us is just wonderful.”

The farm park started off as a few outdoor pens, a small animal barn and a 15-seater tea room, but has more than doubled in size to be home to a wide range of animals such as goats, meerkats, donkeys, Highland cattle and wallabies. There are activities such as sheep racing, small animal handling and alpaca walking, as well as indoor and outdoor multi-zone play centres, a horse-riding school, function rooms, café and a Changing Places facility.

“There’ve certainly been some trying times over the years,” recalled Allan. “Obviously things were difficult during the pandemic, but back in 2013 we seriously thought about giving the farm park up altogether when things were quiet and we were juggling our young family with other full-time jobs. It was thanks to a small grant we managed to get to build a café and us starting social media posts when things started to change. Before we knew it, visitor numbers began rising and we were able to start re-investing in the park.”

Lotty Hawkins, Assistant Manager, said: “The positive feedback from visitors brings the most pride for the management and staff. Visitors really notice how much we’ve improved over the years and how much there is to do and see during a visit. Many people tell us how contact with our lovely animals helps their wellbeing too – animals can be so calming when there’s a special connection. Visitors with Autism and Dementia can also have such rewarding experiences with us.”

The farm park is now one of only a few attractions in the region to hold ‘Accessibility Champion’ status. “Our Changing Places facility has made such a difference to children and adults with additional needs,” added Lotty.

The team look forward to 20th anniversary celebrations with their visitors in April, including the park’s biggest ever social media prize giveaway and party event weekends.

Lotty said: “We really want to give thanks to all our visitors and to all those who’ve supported us over the years. With Easter and lots of Summer events coming up too, it’s an exciting time for Matlock Farm Park!”

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

matlock farm park sheep racing

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Chatsworth opens for new season with design led exhibition adding to 500 years of creativity

Chatsworth is once again back open to the public for the Summer season, with a new exhibition titled ‘Mirror Mirror: Reflections on Design at Chatsworth.’

The historic North Derbyshire house has always been a centre for creativity, with successive generations of the Cavendish family commissioning art and design contemporary to their times.

The new exhibition continues this legacy and is now on display in the house and garden until the end of September 2023.

The exhibition features commissioned works by 16 contemporary designers. Each has responded to one of Chatsworth’s spaces, either indoors or outside in the garden and have been chosen for the way that they reflect on the key issues of today, from climate, sustainability and equality to how people connect.

Alex Hodby, Senior Curator of Programme at Chatsworth, said: “This project is a fantastic opportunity to reflect on the design histories at Chatsworth and bring them to the fore with an exciting array of international artists and designers. We’re fascinated with how the contemporary works in our exhibition have used materials in innovative ways to make functional and intriguing objects that are also deeply connected to the house, garden and the collections here at Chatsworth – a place where design has been a key feature for 500 years.”

Jane Marriott, Director of Chatsworth House Trust, said: “We have invited 16 world renowned artists and designers to reflect on 500 years of design and craftsmanship at Chatsworth. Their bold, inspiring and sometimes humorous works allow us to connect with the many stories at Chatsworth and to also reflect on the urgent issues of our time from our use of materials, sustainability and the climate crisis. As a charity, we are very proud to continue to commission and support artists and by doing so we make Chatsworth’s history come alive, while looking forward to the future.”

Lord Burlington, Chairman of the Chatsworth House Trust said: “We are thrilled to bring Mirror Mirror and these 16 remarkable designers to Chatsworth, to continue the tradition of placing new objects and ideas in direct conversation with creative choices from generations past. With this exhibition, as well as a significantly enhanced programme of talks, tours and workshops, the aim is to ensure Chatsworth upholds its role as a gathering place and a resource for artists, thinkers, makers and learners. We look forward to welcoming them all in 2023.”

Co-curated by Alex Hodby, Senior Curator of Programme at Chatsworth, and writer, historian and curator Glenn Adamson, the exhibition places contemporary works in direct relationship to the historic design at Chatsworth, creating unexpected connections with the house’s architecture, interiors, furniture, ceramics, as well its essential materials of glass, stone, wood, and light.

The sixteen contemporary artists and designers featured in the exhibition are: Ini Archibong, Michael Anastassiades, Wendell Castle, Andile Dyalvane, Ndidi Ekubia, Najla El Zein, Formafantasma, Joris Laarman, Max Lamb, Fernando Laposse, Jay Sae Jung Oh, Samuel Ross, Chris Schanck, Ettore Sottsass, Faye Toogood, and Joseph Walsh.

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

Joris Laarman, Maker benches in the Painted Hall

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Chesterfield reveals ambition to increase visitor economy by £32 million

Ahead of English Tourism Week 2023 (17 – 23 March), Chesterfield has announced its bold ambition to increase the value of its visitor economy by 20% by 2030.

A 20% increase in tourism will bring an additional £32 million into the economy annually helping create jobs for local people and opportunities for existing and new businesses.

The town will build on its heritage, retail and leisure offering as well as its proximity to the Peak District National Park, to increase the number of overnight stays in the town.

As part of its drive to attract people to visit and stay in the town, the town’s inward investment marketing campaign Destination Chesterfield has appealed to businesses and residents to ‘talk up the town’ within their networks and help attract visitors.

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield said: “Chesterfield has an excellent offer for visitors, as well as the town’s close proximity to one of the most visited National Parks in the world. There is an opportunity for us to attract more people to visit and stay overnight in Chesterfield using the town as a base rather than just passing through on their way to the Peak District.”

The Peak District currently welcomes more than 13 million visitors annually with 83% of these arriving by car. Attracting some of these visitors to stay in Chesterfield and using its bus and rail links to visit surrounding areas, including major attractions like Chatsworth House, will not only benefit the borough’s economy but also support the Park Authority’s Sustainable Transport Action Plan.

Additionally, there are cycle paths into the Peak District, the border of which is just five miles from the town centre.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire praised Chesterfield’s ambitions, saying: “Tourism already plays a vital role in making the area such a brilliant place to live, work and visit, and we strongly support Chesterfield’s ambition to grow the value of its visitor economy even further.

“The tourism sector generates billions of pounds for the local economy each year, supporting thousands of local jobs and displaying huge potential for future growth, particularly in areas such as sustainable and active travel, which Chesterfield can really capitalise on.

“Growing and developing the town’s tourism offer will not only benefit local businesses, it will also have a positive and lasting effect on local residents and communities. We look forward to working with partners in Chesterfield to support them in achieving this goal and ensuring the visitor economy’s long-term success.”

Mark Thurman, Managing Director of Casa Hotels which owns and operates two four-star hotels in the borough, urged people to ‘celebrate what we’ve already got,’ saying: “We don’t need to reinvent the wheel. We have wonderful accommodation, great restaurants and fantastic transport links to bring people to Chesterfield to then go and explore the surrounding area. We don’t need to do anything other than celebrate what we’ve already got.”

The town’s proximity to the Peak District has already attracted major investment to the borough including the £300 million PEAK, an all-year-round round leisure education, wellness and entertainment destination. PEAK’s masterplan has been developed around a transport and mobility system connected to the National Park. Phase one of the development, Gateway at PEAK, which is being developed by Milligan is expected to be completed in 2025.

celebrate 2023 visitor economy panel

Experts discuss Chesterfield’s visitor economy at Celebrate Chesterfield 2023. (Left to right: Jo Dilley – Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, Phil Bramley – Derbyshire Times, Mark Thurman – Casa Hotels, Jimmy Drew – Derbyshire County Cricket Club)

The town is already home to the award-winning Casa Hotel and further hotel accommodation is planned within the £320 million Chesterfield Waterside scheme located close to the close to town’s mainline train station. The developer, Bolsterstone Group Plc, is in talks with major hotel brands to operate the proposed 120-bed hotel within Phase 1 of the scheme. The new hotel will be a further addition to the popular 92-bed Premier Inn Hotel which was opened within the Elder Way development in the town centre in 2019.

Increasing the visitor economy of the town is one of the key targets in the 2023-27 Chesterfield Growth Strategy which was launched by Chesterfield Borough Council on 23 February. In addition to growing the visitor economy, key headline targets, include:

  • Increasing the number of employee jobs in the borough by 4% (2,000 jobs)
  • Increasing the number of businesses by 12% (400 businesses)
  • Increasing the number of higher value businesses by 15% (100 businesses)
  • Increasing the share of Chesterfield residents in knowledge-based occupations by 15% (baseline Census 21 – 18,000)
  • Increasing the value of the visitor economy by 20% (baseline £163m)

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We are already a fantastic visitor destination but growing our visitor economy strengthens growth across the borough, it leads to more people supporting our local businesses and town centre. This will in turn create new jobs and opportunities for our residents. To do this we need to work closely with our partners to promote our town, we have excellent transport connections, fantastic accommodation choices and our proximity to the Peak District puts us in a very strong position to bring more people to our town.”

Peter added: “The lasting and far reaching change we are striving for in Chesterfield cannot be done by one organisation alone; it must be a collaborative effort. By doing this, there is a real opportunity to build a thriving visitor economy in the town.”

Chatsworth Country Fair

Chatsworth Country Fair – Image by Chatsworth House Trust

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Success for Casa Hotel, Peak Edge Hotel and Matlock Farm Park at Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards 2023

North Derbyshire businesses Casa Hotel, Peak Edge Hotel and Matlock Farm Park are all celebrating, after picking up ‘gold’ accolades at the Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards 2023.

The awards culminated in a glittering awards ceremony attended by 180 people at Casa Hotel in Chesterfield on Thursday 2nd March.

Some of the area’s finest visitor attractions, experiences, pubs, restaurants and accommodation providers were amongst those recognised at the awards, designed to showcase excellence and outstanding achievement across the area’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Organised for the third year by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, with support from the European Regional Development Fund, this year’s awards celebrated the success and resilience of tourism businesses whilst highlighting the sector’s valuable contribution to the local economy.

The Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards 2023 were hotly contested and finalists progressed through shortlisting, mystery shopping and a rigorous judging process by an independent panel of experts.

Finalists, guests and partners enjoyed a drinks reception sponsored by Global Brands followed by a three-course formal dinner in the stunning surroundings of Casa Hotel’s Barcelona Suite.

Sir Richard FitzHerbert Bt, Chair of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, opened proceedings saying: “I am delighted to be here to celebrate with you all and to help the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire team champion the very best of the county’s tourism and hospitality businesses.

“I have learnt through my involvement with Visit Peak District & Derbyshire that we each have our own businesses, our own challenges and our own opportunities for growth but when we work together, we can, and we do achieve so much more.”

Host Andy Miller compered the event as Gold, Silver and Bronze award winners were revealed. Gold winners were each presented with hand-crafted awards, designed and made by Derbyshire-based C W Sellors Fine Jewellery & Luxury Watches, whilst Silver and Bronze winners each received a certificate identifying them as one of the finest tourism businesses in the area.

In a further boost, Gold winners in each of the 13 core categories will now progress onto the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023, which represent the highest accolades in English tourism.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “The Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards are a celebration of all that’s great about the tourism industry locally, and recognise its vital importance to the economy as well as the hard work, talent and dedication of those who work in this important sector.

“The quality and diversity of our tourism offer is immense and, in light of the many difficulties faced by the industry over the past three years, we should be tremendously proud of not only our award-winners, but of all our finalists. They have shown adaptability, innovation, and commitment to delivering world-class experiences to visitors day in, day out and help make the Peak District and Derbyshire such a fantastic place to live, work and visit. Congratulations everyone!”

Full list of finalists and winners at the Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards 2023:

Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award

  • GOLD: Matlock Farm Park, Matlock
  • Silver: Croft Bungalow Accessible Holiday Let, Birchover
  • Bronze: LEVEL Centre, Rowsley

B&B and Guest House of the Year

  • GOLD: Grendon Bed & Breakfast, Buxton
  • Silver: Sheldon House, Monyash

Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year

  • GOLD: Upper Hurst Farm, Hartington
  • Silver: Landal Darwin Forest, Matlock
  • Bronze: Rivendale Lodge Retreat, Ashbourne

Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award

  • GOLD: Pure Outdoor
  • Silver: myGuidedWalks
  • Bronze: Landal Darwin Forest, Matlock

Experience of the Year

  • GOLD: myGuidedWalks
  • Silver: Pendragon Project Team Adventures
  • Bronze: Pure Outdoor

Hotel of the Year

  • GOLD: Wildhive Callow Hall, near Ashbourne
  • Silver: Peak Edge Hotel, Chesterfield
  • Bronze: The Maynard, Grindleford

New Tourism Business Award

  • GOLD: Great British Car Journey, Ambergate
  • Silver: Buxton Crescent Heritage Experience, Buxton
  • Bronze: The George, Hathersage

Pub of the Year

  • GOLD: The Blind Bull, Little Hucklow
  • Silver: The Scotsman’s Pack Country Inn, Hathersage
  • Bronze: The George, Hathersage

Resilience & Innovation Award

  • GOLD: Casa Hotel, Chesterfield
  • Silver: Rivendale Lodge Retreat, Ashbourne

Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year

  • GOLD: The Water Mill, Bradbourne
  • Silver: Wheeldon Trees Cottages, Earl Sterndale
  • Bronze: Tissington Ford Barn, Bradbourne

Taste of the Peak District & Derbyshire Award

  • GOLD: Red Lion Restaurant at Peak Edge Hotel, Chesterfield
  • Silver: The Maynard, Grindleford
  • Bronze: The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop, Bakewell

Team of the Year

  • GOLD: The Maynard Team
  • Silver: Creswell Crags Learning Team
  • Bronze: Hattersley Wines

Tourism Young Achiever Award

  • GOLD: Josh Butler, Longbow Bars and Restaurants
  • Silver: Courtney Charlton, The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop
  • Bronze: Hollie Fentem, Rivendale Lodge Retreat

Unsung Hero

  • GOLD: Soraya Ferrer, The Maynard
  • Silver: Gavin Moy, Pure Outdoor
  • Bronze: Martin Firth, Rivendale Lodge Retreat

Visitor Attraction of the Year

  • GOLD: Matlock Farm Park
  • Silver: Heights of Abraham, Matlock Bath
  • Bronze: Thornbridge Estate, Bakewell

Casa Hotel, Peak Edge Hotel, Matlock Farm Park and Visit Peak District & Derbyshire support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Gold winners at the 2023 Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards

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Develop skills for life in hospitality, leisure, and tourism

Are you searching for job opportunities? Whether it be a part time or full time role, a career in hospitality, leisure and tourism can help you develop skills for life.

A career in the sector is exciting due to the diverse range of job roles. You could find yourself working in events, food services, accommodation, entertainment, tourist services and more. Whatever area you choose, there are plenty of roles to choose from, along with career progression opportunities.

There’s no better way to learn about the skills developed working in the sector, than straight from the individuals that work in hospitality, leisure and tourism.

What’s it like working in hospitality?

With Chesterfield being an ideal base to visit the Peak District, the town is home to many hospitality venues.

Meet Matthew Clark, Conference Events Co-ordinator at Chesterfield’s Casa Hotel. He demonstrates how quickly you can progress in the industry. Matthew first had a taste of working in hospitality whilst completing his work experience at school in a large chain hotel – the same place he worked his first full time role.

Barca Bar at Casa 2022

Matthew said: “I left school and returned to the hotel, this time as a full time receptionist. I quickly learnt the ropes and progressed to a supervisory position. Being front facing and having that guest interaction daily was a part of the job that I loved. However, I was ready to ‘fly the nest’ and move onto an exciting challenge to push my career forward. This is when I found Casa and a new opportunity.

“I joined the Casa team in 2021 as a reservations co-ordinator. This helped me gain further knowledge of the hotel system as well as reservations and revenue. Whilst in this role I also began to assist our Events Co-ordinators in booking small meeting rooms and functions. This again sparked another interest of mine!

“Fast forward to now, I am a Conference and Events Co-ordinator here at Casa, planning events for up to 200 people from conferences and corporate dinners, to milestone family functions. My interest in hospitality was planted by the idea of guest happiness, and I now organise our clients’ great occasions with their satisfaction at the heart of what I do. What better way to be a part of our guests’ journey than planning their special event!”

Is there progression opportunities in hospitality?

Charlotte Brook

Charlotte Brook is HR Officer at DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park, she demonstrates how you can progress your career with transferable skills. She explained: “Working in the hospitality industry over the years has given me so much job satisfaction. Every day is different, whether it be running a wedding or celebrating a guests special birthday. I have learnt many transferable skills that have helped in every position I have held in my hospitality career. One of the highlights of my learning was a trip to Malaga, Spain to learn how to be a Hilton Trainer, something I will never forget!

“As a result of the transferable skills learnt during my management roles, I progressed into a HR officer position. The progression opportunities in hospitality are endless and I would recommend anyone thinking about joining the industry to give it a go. You never know where it will take you and the opportunities that may arise.”

What’s it like working in leisure?

Leisure is all about what people like to do and experience in their free time. Chesterfield’s event and festival programme helps to attract people to spend their leisure time here in Chesterfield, and one of the annual favourites is the Tapton Lock Festival, which is organised by Junction Arts.

Martha Bramwell started working at Junction Arts as a part-time intern, before progressing to Projects Assistant through an apprenticeship. She said: “I always knew I wanted to work in the community arts and leisure sector. I love working on projects such as the Tapton Lock Festival, as it brings together the amazing people that make up our Chesterfield community.”

Martha’s apprenticeship has allowed her to gain hands-on experience and an advanced education without going to university. She explained: “My time at Junction Arts will provide me the skills and experience to build a lifelong career.

“Every day I feel motivated. I’m excited to come to work and learn something new every day, knowing the work I do helps to create change in my local community. I couldn’t wish for a better team – I feel supported and guided in all aspects of my work. Once I have completed my apprenticeship, I will be continuing my work at Junction Arts as a project assistant.”

Gain experience and skills for life

Working in hospitality, leisure and tourism can help develop your career not only in these sectors but also other industries. We spoke to two local apprentices who demonstrate just that.

Jake Taylor worked as a chef for 5 years before becoming a Level 3 Digital Support Technician at Addooco IT. He said: “Working as a chef provided me with key communication and timing skills. My ability to carry out jobs quickly and efficiently has aided me in my new job.

“Every day is a learning day at Addooco and the natural curiosity that comes with the territory of being a chef is something that I hope will push me into a big future within the company and industry.”

Ria Smith worked as a waitress prior to completing her Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship at Peak Pharmacy. She explained: During my time as a waitress I developed key transferable skills which have helped me within my new career in many ways; I have completed my apprenticeship in 12 months, rather than 18 and I am given more responsibility.

Having completed my apprenticeship, I have progressed within Peak Pharmacy and been enrolled on another course which I can then build on in the future.”

Fancy working in hospitality, leisure and tourism?

You can develop skills for life in hospitality, leisure and tourism and they can help to progress your career, either within the sector or a different industry. The leisure and tourism offering in Chesterfield means there are many career opportunities available.

Search apprenticeship job opportunities in Chesterfield…

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Blog, Leisure, Made in Chesterfield, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

Derbyshire and the Peak District promoted to the world at major travel events

Derbyshire and the Peak District has been promoted to the world at three major travel events last week.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire promoted the delights of the destination to thousands of consumers and travel trade buyers at events in Dublin and London to showcase the area’s tourism offer.

As international travel begins to increase, the area’s official destination management organisation has been working hard to keep the Peak District and Derbyshire front and centre in the minds of potential visitors and the world’s leading travel trade operators.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire showcased the destination to an estimated 40,000 visitors at Ireland’s biggest annual travel exhibition, the Holiday World Show, in Dublin and also met with key international travel trade representatives at VisitBritain’s Showcase Britain event and the Britain & Ireland Marketplace, both held in London.

While capturing demand from the rise in domestic staycations has been a key part of their recovery marketing efforts, keeping international markets warm has been just as important, and the Holiday World Show (27th-29th January) was the first large-scale opportunity the organisation has had since the pandemic to promote the Peak District and Derbyshire to overseas visitors and travel trade buyers.

Visitors to the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire stand were given information on the destination’s vibrant tourism offer and had the chance to taste quality local produce with whisky samples from Ambergate-based White Peak Distillery. Visitors also had the opportunity to win tickets to Chatsworth, an iconic cultural attraction for international tourists.

In a further boost, Visit Peak District & Derbyshire promoted the destination to international travel trade representatives at VisitBritain’s Showcase Britain event on 26th January before meeting with overseas tour operators and travel trade buyers at the Britain & Ireland Marketplace, in partnership with UKinbound and the European Tour Operators Association (EOTA), on 27th January.

The events provided a valuable opportunity to forge new relationships with key travel trade decision makers and promote bookable product – ranging from group accommodation to sustainable experiences – to hundreds of international buyers.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “Increasing international travel to the Peak District and Derbyshire is crucial for the recovery and growth of the visitor economy. Being part of these important face-to-face events helps showcase the area as a world-class destination for both international visitors and key travel trade buyers, inspiring visits from overseas markets which are continuing to build their confidence about returning to the UK again.

“There are lots of potential opportunities for the area to benefit from some big events happening in 2023, with international visitors expected to take a keen interest in both the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool and King Charles III’s Coronation, which gives us plenty of reasons to shout about the Peak District and Derbyshire as a must-visit holiday destination.”

Hot on the heels of these successful events, the organisation is also registered to attend VisitBritain’s flagship event ExploreGB, which brings together hand-picked international buyers from over 30 markets and the best of the UK travel trade.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire’s work to increase international visitor numbers is in line with its key aims to drive visitor spend, boost overnight stays, and extend the tourism season.

Inbound tourism has been identified as a key driver of recovery and economic growth and VisitBritain predicts international visits to the UK will total 35.1 million in 2023 (86% of 2019 levels), with a spend of £29.5 billion (104% of 2019 levels).

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire is a committed member of UKinbound, a trade organisation that represents the UK’s inbound tourism sector. Tourism businesses interested in working with the travel trade should contact industry@visitpeakdistrict.com.

Peak District and Derbyshire promoted in London and Dublin

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

Peak District Highland Games recognised with national award

A major event in North Derbyshire, which attracts thousands of visitors each year has scooped a prestigious national award. The Peak District Highland Games, hosted by Matlock Farm Park and Man Beast Strongman Events won the ‘Best Event ‘ prize at the 2023 National Farm Attractions Network awards.

The coveted ceremony shines a light on farm parks all over the country who have membership with the highly-regarded organisation.

Lotty Hawkins, Assistant Manager at Matlock Farm Park commented: Matlock Farm Park is just thrilled to win the Best Event award from NFAN, with such strong competition from the best farm parks in the land.

“There’s such a large amount of preparation in the build up to the day, compared to other events we host, for instance setting up extra catering and stalls, grandstand seating, organising sponsors, promotion including our big social media prize giveaway campaign and more, but it is entirely worth it because it is such a special and unique event.

“Not only is it the farm park’s flagship event, but it’s a key Summer event for the region, gaining more of a following each year. Our team work so hard on the day, but they really enjoy the camaraderie of it all!

“It’s all with thanks of course to the super Man Beast organisers and athletes with their planning and delivery. Each year the strong men and women blow us and the crowd away by going the extra mile with all their might in events such as the Eight Tonne Tractor Pull, Tossing of the Caber and Peak Dinnie Stone Challenge. The children spectators in particular feel so inspired watching the athletes do their very best and of course, they love having photos taken with these real life ‘superheroes’.

“The wonderful, cheering spectators who come to enjoy the day with us really make the event special and we would like to thank everyone who supports Matlock Farm Park and The Peak District Highland Games.”

Andy Picken, Founder of Man Beast Strongman Events commented: “We are immensely proud that the Peak District Highland Games has won this prestigious award.

“Together with Matlock Park, Man Beast Strongman Events have created a truly unique national event combining the sport of strongman with the classic Highland Games for the Peak District National Park.

“The Athletes train throughout the year for these games, not only to chase the win but also entertain the amazing crowd and we thank every single one of them for the  commitment and performance they bring each year.”

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

Peak District Highland Games Tug of War 873

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

Chatsworth House Trust announces new Director

Chatsworth House Trust has announced the appointment of Jane Marriot as its new Director.

Jane has started her new role at the Trust, following a six-year tenure as Director of Harewood House Trust in West Yorkshire. During this time, the historic country house saw a significant increase in charitable income and visitor engagement.

Jane joins Chatsworth at an important time. Her remit as the new Director includes leading the development and delivery of a compelling creative programme to reach and engage new audiences in the UK and globally. She is also tasked with increasing the social impact of the Trust’s activities, overseeing the Devonshire Collections of art, artefacts and archives across its various sites, and building the Trust’s endowment to ensure an ever more secure future for the heritage assets under its stewardship.

Jane’s 25-year career has been spent predominantly in leadership roles in museums and galleries at times of major transformation. She started out as assistant curator at Art Gallery New South Wales, Sydney, before joining the team that launched Tate Modern in London in 2000 and then becoming the youngest female Director of Royal Academy Trust and Director of Development at the Royal Academy of Arts.

Whilst at the RA she raised £36 million for the David Chipperfield-designed capital project and established an international fundraising operation in Hong Kong. Jane then moved to Yorkshire, firstly as Deputy Director and then Managing Director of The Hepworth Wakefield where she instigated the creation of the new Hepworth Gallery Garden designed by Tom Stuart Smith and launched the Hepworth Prize for Sculpture, which amongst other initiatives helped The Hepworth Wakefield win the Art Fund ‘Museum of the Year’ in 2017.

Jane Marriott, Director of Chatsworth House Trust, said: “Chatsworth has a great reputation, with an outstanding collection of art, established learning programme and strong exhibitions that together represent a visitor offering to rival any national institution in the UK. Chatsworth also has an incredible reach with more than 600,000 annual visitors, meaning there is huge potential to engage with, and have a positive impact on, a wide and diverse audience.

Through a shared commitment to learning and programme at the heart of the organisation, designed to maximise the incredible collections of art, decorative arts and gardens, we have the potential to reimagine Chatsworth’s role within the UK’s cultural economy.

I look forward to working with the family and the team at Chatsworth to widen our reach and demonstrate value to our communities as a charitable trust, whilst protecting this vital piece of our national heritage for generations to come.”

Lord Burlington, Chairman of the Chatsworth House Trust, said: “I am delighted to welcome Jane to Chatsworth as Director of the Chatsworth House Trust. The Trust was set up by my grandfather in 1981 to look after the house, collections, garden, woodlands and park for the long-term benefit of everyone.

Jane’s experience and achievements in the arts, culture and heritage arenas make her the perfect person to lead an ambitious new chapter of growth and development for the charity. There is a great deal of excitement around this appointment, we look forward to working closely with Jane and we wish her every success.”

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

Chatsworth House Director Jane Marriott

Photos: India Hobson, © Chatsworth House Trust.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

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