10 easy walks to make the most of our great outdoors
With its rich history and stunning landscapes, Chesterfield offers a treasure trove of easy walks, perfect for getting outdoors.
Do you fancy a stroll through town combined with a spot of shopping? Or what about a peaceful meander to spot friendly wildlife and beautiful flora?
We’ve picked ten delightful spots to explore, each offering unique charm and beauty. As well as suggesting nearby eateries to pop into for a quick rest or to escape those pesky showers.
If you’d like to recommend more easy walks to be featured here, please let Tara Underhill know by emailing Tara.underhill@chesterfield.co.uk.
If you’re short on time use our quick links below to jump to the section that interests you the most.
- Historic town centre
- Holmebrook Valley Park
- Tranquil Chesterfield Canal
- Retreat to Linacre Waters
- Scenic Monsal Trail
- Explore Hardwick and surrounding woodland
- Breathtaking views from Birchen Edge to Chatsworth
- Adventure along the Five Pits Trail
- Nature haven Poolsbrook Country Park
- Hidden gem Stubbing Pond
1. Get outdoors in our historic town centre
Queen’s Park
Start your adventure at the iconic Crooked Spire, a must-see landmark. If you have time, book a tour around the church and up the tower for stunning views over the town.
Take a leisurely walk through our vibrant town centre, looking up to enjoy our black-and-white architecture. Wander through the bustling Chesterfield Market, known for its specialist events and local produce. Afterwards, nip into The Shambles and The Yards for hidden shopping gems and local art.
Chesterfield’s historic shopping streets are complemented by a modern, outdoor shopping centre at Vicar Lane. And of course, the indoor Pavements Shopping Centre offers a spot to shelter from the inevitable bursts of rain.
Walk west to West Bars and walk under the Royal Mail office. Before you reach the bridge, spot one of the largest and most impressive public art works locally – Angela Conner’s Poise (Wind Sculpture). Divided into six segments, see if you can see it moving gently back and forward.
Cross over the bridge to Queen’s Park, where you can relax by the pond and watch the world go by, or enjoy a spot of cricket. Meet at the bandstand every other Thursday at 10:30 am to join the MindSpace – Chesterfield Walk and Talk Group.
For those wanting to extend their walk, exit the park towards Chatsworth Road for the suburban charm of independent shops and cafés. Continue for Inkerman Park, Manor Fields, Somersall Park and Walton Dam.
2. Peaceful Holmebrook Valley Park
Take a stroll through over 140 acres of picturesque parkland to feel as though you’re far away from the hustle and bustle, despite only being a ten minute drive from Chesterfield town centre.
A highlight feature, the stunning lake at Holmebrook Valley is a peaceful spot for a circular walk, surrounded by greenery. Take a moment to rest on one of the many benches scattered around the lake while listening to the calming sounds of nature.
In summer the wildflower meadows burst into colour, attracting butterflies and bees. Birdwatchers will find many species making this spot their home.
Paths at Holmebrook Valley are smooth and well-signposted, although be aware that the toilets and cafe are at the top of the hill.
3. Tranquil Chesterfield Canal
Chesterfield Canal
Enjoy a serene walk along the peaceful towpath of the Chesterfield Canal, known as The Cuckoo Way with plenty of wildlife to spot along the way.
The flat route from the Canal Basin at Chesterfield Railway to Staveley is perfect for an easy walk. As well as featuring some of the oldest staircase locks ever built, significant restoration has been carried out along the canal since 1989 including 2 new marinas.
And the future is exciting, with funding confirmed to extend the canal by half a mile from Hartington Harbour onto the Staveley Puddlebank, and two miles of multi-use towpath all the way to Renishaw.
Enhance your experience with a delightful cruise on a Tripboat from Hollingwood Hub or Tapton Lock.
At Tapton Lock try Spanish cuisine at Casa Hotel or artisan dishes from The Batch House, opposite the home of Chesterfield FC.
Stop off at Katey’s Coffee Shop when you reach Hollingwood.
While shopping in Staveley, enjoy historic landmarks from Staveley Hall to Mill Green Bridge and the beautiful Chesterfield Canal on the Staveley Walking Trail.
4. Retreat to Linacre Waters
Escape to the peaceful Linacre Waters, a haven for nature lovers. Surrounded by woodlands and rolling hills, the reservoir offers a network of easy paths ideal for a gentle stroll. Enjoy the serene water views, spot local wildlife, and breathe the fresh country air.
Dogs love to explore and play in the woodland. It’s a 5-mile route covering all three shimmering reservoirs and surrounding streams, and there are plenty of side tracks to discover too – if you’re feeling slightly more adventurous.
5. Scenic Monsal Trail
Monsal Trail
A picturesque walk through the Peak District, Monsal Trail offers a flat path for gentle walking through a former railway line. Enjoy stunning countryside views, cross impressive viaducts, and explore old railway tunnels.
From Hassop station, the route to the right has the wow factor. Leading you through an old railway tunnel, the path opens onto an old railway bridge overlooking the lush Peak District greenery. It’s a there-and-back route – so you can walk as far as 6 miles if you have the time or shorten the walk for more relaxed days. And there are toilets and cafes along the way.
6. Breathtaking views from Birchen Edge to Chatsworth
This walk combines panoramic countryside views with a touch of history. Start your journey at Birchen Edge and follow the trail through enchanting woodlands and open moorlands for reflection and relaxation.As you walk, take a moment to admire the Three Ships – three large gritstone rocks etched with the names of famous naval ships.
Your journey ends at the magnificent Chatsworth House with beautiful woodland surrounding the house. Why not stop for a well-deserved tea at the estate café?
7. Explore Hardwick Hall and surrounding woodland
Hardwick Hall, Chesterfield
Explore the surroundings of Hardwick Hall – one of England’s finest Elizabethan houses. Find beautifully landscaped gardens and gentle walking paths that allow you to soak in the grandeur of the hall and its surroundings.
Take your time to explore the woodland trails, although be aware that there are hills to navigate. For an intermediate guided route, join the Oak Group Walk – 3.5 miles to socialise while exploring the Hardwick Estate. Or do you think you can take on the 7-mile challenge?
Hardwick Hall offers many architectural and artistic delights from Elizabethan tapestries to Forties furnishings. Afterwards, rest in the café with a local treat, or enjoy a picnic with a view of the magnificent house.
8. An adventure along the Five Pits Trail
Discover the Five Pits Trail, a 5.5-mile path that follows the old railway lines that once served the local coal mines, with informative signposts to learn about the area’s coal mining history along the way.
The trail is flat and well-maintained. As you walk, you pass peaceful woodlands and open fields and plenty of birds and butterflies.
9. Nature haven Poolsbrook Country Park
Poolsbrook
Another flat route to take at your own pace, this tranquil spot at Poolsbrook Country Park is home to swans, ducks and woodland birds. So, do bring along your binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching.
Take a gentle stroll around the lake. Then pause on one of the benches to soak up the tranquil atmosphere.
If you’re feeling peckish, the park’s café offers refreshments, or bring a picnic to share.
10. Hidden gem Stubbing Pond
Stubbing Pond at Wingerworth offers a serene waterside spot for a walk off the beaten path.
Bring your camera for this easy four-mile walk to capture the beautiful greenery and sky reflected in the pond. Or reflect by the water to enjoy the simple pleasure of being outdoors.
Are you inspired by our easy walks to get you exploring outdoors?
Ready to get active, enjoy nature, and explore the town’s rich history? Then put on your walking shoes and embrace the beauty around our town.
If you know others who would enjoy easy walks to make the most of the great outdoors? Share this blog post with them and on social media, if you found it helpful. Also, we love to see your photos. So, please tag us in on our Facebook or Instagram pages using the handle @chesterfielduk.
