Leisure

New luxury hair salon to open at Elder Way

Elder Way will welcome a third business to the development later this year, with a new luxury hair salon, Feather & Fern set to open in Unit 1 on Knifesmithgate in May.

Feather & Fern owners and hairdressers Kerry Featherstone and Sara Fern have agreed a 10-year lease on the prominent 1,636 sq. ft unit with Elder Way developer Jomast marking another exciting tenant for the iconic former Co-op department store.

Feather & Fern will now join Bottle & Thyme and Hotpod Yoga who both moved to the development last year.

Both hailing and currently working in Chesterfield, the opening of Feather & Fern is the first business venture for Kerry and Sara.

Speaking about the move, Kerry said: “We are really excited by the Elder Way development. It is the new place to be in town. The unit and space wowed us and we wanted it immediately.”

Feather & Fern will be located in what was the electrical department of the former Co-Op department store. Work is now underway to transform the split-level unit.

Sara added: “Jomast has allowed us to be flexible with the interior and that was important to us. We want to put our own stamp on the space and create an environment unlike other hair salon in town.”

The lower level will host a welcoming area with a reception desk, sea grass pendant lighting, a seating area, and a coffee bar. “It’s an area for people to not just wait for their appointment, but relax,” Kerry added.

The second level will be zoned into cutting, washing, and mixing areas. In keeping with the wider Elder Way development, Feather and Fern will have a fresh and contemporary look.

The original unit 1 has been split in order to accommodate Fern & Feather’s business needs. The split has created a smaller 1,109 sq.ft unit which Jomast is confident will appeal to independent and start-up businesses in the area.

Mark Hill, Jomast’s Commercial Property Director said: “I am delighted that we have been able to accommodate Sara and Kerry’s new business and help them realise their dream.

“Feather & Fern will be a great addition to Elder Way and Chesterfield town centre. It’s a prominent unit with lots of parking nearby as well as neighbouring businesses like Bottle & Thyme which will assist them in getting their business established quickly.

The move to Elder Way by Feather & Fern means that all three corner units at the development on Knifesmithgate and Elder Way – are now fully occupied. Just one unit remains available on Knifesmithgate.

Set to open in May later this year, Feather & Fern aims to create nine jobs, including six stylist roles, two apprenticeships, and a beauty therapist role. The salon will have ten hair sections with extra seating for colours and treatments.

Looking forward to opening their first business, Sara said: “It’s very exciting and scary. We can’t wait to welcome clients – new and old – to Feather & Fern. We are delighted that we are able to bring our vision to life at Elder Way. It’s the place to be in Chesterfield.”

Just five units now remain available at Elder Way with agent WSB Property reporting strong interest from a number of operators.

For enquiries or further information about the available units, visit www.elderway.co.uk

Enterprises of every kind already benefit from Chesterfield’s positive approach, supportive community, superb travel links and excellent strategic location. Find out more about locating your business in our town at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

 

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BRM Chesterfield Festival of Cricket returns this summer with four exciting matches

The BRM Chesterfield Festival of Cricket, in association with Chesterfield Borough Council, will return to Queen’s Park this summer.

The Falcons Men return to one of the UK’s most picturesque cricket grounds on Sunday 6 July (2.30pm), to face Yorkshire in T20 action.

2024’s encounter saw the Falcons extend their unbeaten streak over the White Rose at Chesterfield to seven games, and they’ll be aiming to continue their good form in 2025.

Before that, cricket fans can soak up plenty of action in our town as Falcons Women take on Worcestershire Rapids on Saturday 28 June in the Vitality Blast Women’s League Two (T20).

Derbyshire Men will then face Lancashire in the Rothesay County Championship (First-class) on Sunday 29 June – Wednesday 2 July.

Then, The Blaze will take to the field against Hampshire Women on Friday 4 July in the Vitality Blast Women’s Competition (T20).

The T20 fixture between Derbyshire and Yorkshire has become a regular fixture in the cricketing calendar and has sold out on each of the last six occasions, so it is recommended fans secure their tickets early.

Jimmy Drew, Commercial Manager of Derbyshire County Cricket Club commented: “The club really looks forward to the BRM Chesterfield Festival of Cricket each season, and it’s always amazing to see so many people from Chesterfield and the surrounding area support this.  The atmosphere created around Queen’s Park, particularly for our T20 match against Yorkshire, is second to none, and it’s great to feel the buzz from those supporting Derbyshire, especially if we win.”

Find out more about the event at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/the-chesterfield-festival-of-cricket/

Looking for details of events, and festivals happening in Chesterfield check out www.chestrfield.co.uk/events or sign up for our weekly email update here.

Derbyshire County Cricket Club and BRM Solicitors support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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New owners of Chesterfield’s oldest pub say venue has ‘huge potential’

The new owners of Chesterfield’s oldest pub say they have big plans for the venue after recently receiving the keys to their new business.

Meg Hartman and Patrick Hopkins are the landlords of Ye Royal Oak, based in Chesterfield’s historic Shambles in the heart of the town. The couple are currently working as teachers, and are balancing the pub’s renovation with their demanding jobs.

Speaking about their decision to take on the pub, which is claimed to date back to the 12th century, Meg explained: “Having lived in Chesterfield for almost three years now, we frequently passed the Royal Oak and spoke about how we’d love to be in the position to buy the pub to transform it back to being a beautiful boozer.

“We are currently both teachers (Patrick – a secondary history teacher – and Meg – a special needs primary school teacher) and while this has been a rewarding career for us both, it has been a lifelong dream of ours to own a pub. We knew that we wanted something in the area and we also wanted a historic pub whose heritage we could celebrate and restore. The Royal Oak, obviously, ticked both of these boxes and we were fortunate enough to be in a position to buy the pub as independent owners.”

The couple say once the pub is back up and running, they are keen to turn it into a venue which can be used by all corners of the local community.

Meg added: “We think it has huge potential as a town centre venue. We are aiming to be a wet led pub with a warm and welcome atmosphere selling regional, national and international craft ale, beer and cider. Having both spent a lot of time working up in the Highlands, we also hope to provide a robust whisky offering.

“Our food offering will be a fine selection of bar snacks (think butties, pork pies, sausage rolls, pickled eggs and the best crisp selection you could imagine). As we become more settled in the rituals and routines of Royal Oak life, we may look to extend this offering to pies and toasties. We will also have a solid roster of regular events (such as a weekly pub quiz, folk sessions, chess nights) as well as one-off events (tap takeovers, meet the brewers etc.). We are also hoping to serve as a space for groups within the local community to come together and connect.”

Since moving to Chesterfield three years ago, Meg and Patrick say they have fallen in love with the town and its people: “We love living in Chesterfield. It’s such a great town that is really made by the people that live here. We have had such an overwhelmingly lovely response from locals who love the pub and have shared their own stories with us.

“We feel very supported in this venture. As the oldest pub in Chesterfield, we are thrilled to add to its layers of history and want to do our best to preserve its heritage. We are looking forward to collaborating with local pub history tours to bring in locals and visitors to the town alike to share in the thrilling history of the town’s pubs. Sitting just in the Shambles, we are looking forward to the developments being made in the market and look forward to being a destination for shoppers to come for a pint, a coffee or a chat. We are also looking forward to joining a network of superb local independent businesses.”

Keep up to date with the pub’s renovation on Ye Royal Oak’s social media pages:

Want to discover more about what Chesterfield has to offer? Head over to our visiting pages and plan your stay in Chesterfield.

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Chesterfield Pride announces line-up for 10th anniversary event

Chesterfield Pride has announced an exciting line-up for its 10th anniversary event this July.

The festival, which sees thousands of visitors celebrating in Stand Road Park returns on Saturday July 19th.

The event will have two stages, with the main stage to be headlined by chart-topping boyband, 911. The group scored 10 top ten singles in the UK including a number one single. The Main Stage will also see performances from MOBO award-winning Big Brovaz, chart-topper and West End star Diana Vickers, 90s artists Alex Party and Berri.

Also announced on this year’s lineup is the iconic Honey G, Pride legend Kelly Wilde, Dene Michael from Black Lace and Britain’s Got Talent star, Rob King.

The event also hosts the Cabaret Stage which will see some of the UK’s most well-known drag artists appearing, alongside the best in unsigned talent. This year’s Cabaret Stage will see performances from the fabulous Baga Chipz, Fatt Butcher and Bernie De Bra. Aditionally, this stage will see some of the world’s best tributes including Donna Marie as Lady Gaga and Melissa Totten as Madonna. Unsigned artists appreating at the event include Toni Lee, Poppy-Mai, Davey Stuart and Lexi Whiteside.

Chesterfield Pride Organiser, Dan Walker commented: “I am so proud to see the event reach its 10th Birthday. To see Chesterfield Pride grow over 10 years has been fantastic. To know we are now the region’s biggest LGBTQ celebration is an amazing achievement. The event has a fantastic team of volunteers working on it to make it happen.

“Chesterfield Pride is a day about bringing the community together and having fun. Chesterfield Pride would not be possible without the amazing support from everyone that attends the event and all the businesses that sponsor us.”

Tickets are £10 if bought in advance. Under 16’s are free entry but must be accompanied with an adult. Tickets available through Skiddle or by visiting: chesterfieldpride.co.uk

Find out more about events and activities taking place in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/

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Partnership working enables promotion of the Peak District and Derbyshire on the international stage

Recent international marketing activity work has been undertaken by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire to boost overseas visitors to the area.

2025 is off to a flying start with Visit Peak District & Derbyshire spearheading international tourism activity to support the destination’s core aims to increase overnight stays, extend the tourism season and grow the value of the visitor economy.

As lead partner of the area’s Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), Visit Peak District & Derbyshire recently worked in partnership with VisitBritain and West Midlands Growth Company to host travel buyers from the Netherlands and Belgium on a familiarisation trip to the area.

The influential group of buyers and tour operators – all experts in selling trips to the UK – were in the destination as part of VisitBritain’s ‘Showcase Britain’ event, which includes a series of special educational visits to shine the spotlight on the latest products and experiences on offer for future visitors.

The programme enables overseas buyers to make new connections and gain first-hand experience of destinations, so they are equipped with the latest product knowledge to create new itineraries and drive international visits that will support and grow the visitor economy.

According to VisitBritain research, the UK welcomed 2 million visitors from the Netherlands in 2023 who spent a record £1.1 billion. In the same year, 867,000 visitors from Belgium travelled to the UK, spending a record £481.4 million.

With a strong focus on travelling for culture, heritage, nature and the outdoors, the aim is to encourage Dutch and Belgian visitors to add the Peak District and Derbyshire to future itineraries and help grow the destination’s £2.9bn visitor economy.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire worked alongside six local tourism operators to bring the ‘Showcase Britain’ trip to life – and in connection with VisitBritain’s new Starring GREAT Britain campaign, the visit was designed to highlight some of the area’s many film locations which have featured in films and TV programmes shown across the world.

The buyers discovered the breathtaking beauty of the Peak District National Park on a guided walk with Peak Walking Adventures on Stanage Edge, as seen in the 2005 film adaptation of Pride & Prejudice.

The group also visited Haddon Hall, historic home of Lord and Lady Edward Manners, to discover the backdrop for famous films and TV shows including Wolf Hall, Mary Queen of Scots, The King, The Princess Bride and numerous adaptations of Jane Eyre.

The buyers enjoyed Bakewell Pudding Making at the Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop, sampled local food at The George, Hathersage and The Pilsley Inn on the Chatsworth Estate, and stayed at the newly-opened Bike & Boot Hotel in Hope, a walking, cycling and dog-friendly hotel in the heart of the Peak District.

The activity to drive international visits came hot on the heels of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire attending the Britain & Ireland Marketplace (BIM) trade event in London on 26th January, which offers British tourism suppliers and destinations an opportunity to meet 1-1 with overseas buyers from across the world.

Other recent activity has included an international workshop with VisitBritain Germany in November to meet major tour operators and travel agents, and promoting the area’s trade-ready product at the ‘Vakantiebeurs’ Trade Day event in Utrecht earlier this year, which is regarded as a key annual travel event for the Netherlands.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “Attracting international visits to the Peak District and Derbyshire is vitally important to creating a sustainable, year-round visitor economy that supports local jobs, businesses and communities.

“International markets can be key for supporting tourism businesses in the traditionally quieter months, encouraging longer stays, increasing visitor spend, and driving economic growth right across the region.

“Being part of these important face-to-face events and familiarisation visits helps showcase the area as a world-class destination for key travel trade buyers, ensuring the Peak District and Derbyshire is ‘front of mind’ for them when programming and recommending destinations to their clients in 2025 and beyond.”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, says: “People across the region know and enjoy the beautiful towns, villages and breathtaking countryside in Derbyshire, and we’re so fortunate to have the incredible Peak District on our doorstep. I have loved spending so much time in Derbyshire and the Peak District, it’s such a joy to visit either in my role as Mayor or going there with my family on rare days off.

“I am delighted with the work being done by the team at Visit Peak District and Derbyshire, as we rightly showcase to the world all we have to offer tourists and businesses. It is so important to me that we protect and promote this part of our region, support and grow the businesses here and make sure as many people across the globe add ‘Visit Derbyshire’ to their travel plans.”

Planning your trip to the Peak District or Derbyshire? Make sure you visit the historic market town of Chesterfield! Find out more about what our town has to offer at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

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‘This February – the month of love – take a moment to feel proud of where you live’

In her February blog post, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, Ann Fomukong-Boden, reflects on the reasons why she loves her town. 

On Valentine’s Day, we celebrate love. Not just for our partners, but for all the people, places, and little joys that make life special.

For me, Chesterfield’s character, community, and charm are just three of the reasons why I love where I live.

My old local, the Chesterfield Arms holds a special place in my heart, and I love stopping in there to relax and enjoy the cosiness on a chilly winter’s evening. Of course, their selection of ales certainly helps to warm the soul!

Our town boasts many beautiful green spaces, and you only need travel fifteen minutes from our town centre to arrive at the iconic Peak District National Park. Plenty of spots to create memories with those you love. I personally love a stroll with family and friends. Our little one loves to wear her hiking backpack, and any outdoor activity must be complemented by a delicious pub lunch! Getting outdoors in the fresh air is an excellent way to fall in love with the local area.

Queen’s Park continues to bring a smile to our daughter’s face – with its grassy picnic spots, playgrounds full of laughter, and the iconic choo-choo of Puffin’ Billy, our miniature train.

I also love many of our indoor options for the UK’s rainy days. Chesterfield Escape Rooms, Geeks Headquarters and the new Board & Bean café provide warm spaces to indulge in a hobby and spend quality time together.

But above all, what truly makes Chesterfield? For me, it’s our people.

Our shop owners love a friendly chat with you and go out of their way to help. Neighbours look out for one another. Finally, you can feel the warmth at our community events like the Chesterfield Children’s Festival and the Ashgate Hospice Superhero Walk. I could certainly feel the warmth at my own town centre event this year – Social Fuse, which celebrated social enterprises across our area.

I work alongside many people in our town, and I love to see our businesspeople pour their hearts into their work to create spaces where we can connect, shop, and enjoy life. These hard-working individuals keep our high streets bustling and our community spirit alive.

So, this February – the month of love – take a moment to feel proud of where you live. To soak up our town’s character, community and charm. Whether savouring our food, our family-friendly spaces, or our wonderful people, show a little extra love to our places and faces that make life in our town so meaningful.

For ideas of how to make memories with those you love this Valentine’s Day visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/valentines/

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member

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Conference to launch three-year celebration of traditional crafts and makers in Derbyshire

The Derbyshire Creative Heritage Conference is coming to Chesterfield in March. Entitled Derbyshire Makes: Honouring Tradition, Inspiring Future Makers it will shine a light on heritage crafts and skills, giving the national, countywide and local perspective on this important sector.

The conference will also celebrate some of the traditional crafts associated with the region and discover how they can be protected and evolved for future generations with speakers, live demonstrations and ‘have a go’ opportunities for delegates.

The Derbyshire Creative Heritage Conference is a biennial event, organised by Junction Arts which brings together experts, creatives, volunteers and those who love heritage, to share ideas, network, and develop partnerships for the future.

This year’s event will mark the start of Derbyshire Makes, a three-year celebration of making in all its forms, with free events taking place across the county this spring between 28th March and 27th April.

The conference will be held at Chesterfield Town Hall and West Studios on Friday 28th March, from 10am until 4pm. Speakers for the event include Mary Lewis from Heritage Crafts, Eilis Scott from the Arkwright Society, ceramic artist Clare Gage and textile artist Anna Piper.

There will also be demonstrations from Richard Wilkes, a National Trust stonemason and Sam Tinsdeall, a carpenter, also from the National Trust.

Junction Arts Project Manager Jane Wells said: “We’re delighted to be bringing the conference to Chesterfield, a place that has a rich and interesting history when it comes to making, from ceramics to fashion, engineering to art – Chesterfield was and still is a creative hub and we’re looking forward to celebrating that.

“We have a full day planned that will include interactive elements for delegates to join in with, and I hope that people will network, share ideas and develop their knowledge, helping to secure the future of traditional and endangered crafts.”

To book your place at the Derbyshire Creative Heritage Conference 2025 visit: https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/DerbyshireCreativeHeritageConferenceDerbyshireMake

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.

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Study ranks Chesterfield in the UK’s top 20 greenest towns

Chesterfield has been ranked amongst the 20 greenest towns in the UK, according to a recent study.

Our town took 15th spot on the list compiled by HolidayCars, which studied several criteria including sustainability practices, green spaces available, public transport options, local food production, air quality and pollution levels, and support for local businesses.

Speaking about Chesterfield’s green credentials, the study said: “Found on the edges of the Peak District, Chesterfield is another green area to live in the UK. In fact, in a 2024 study by Eurocell Chesterfield was ranked as the UK’s best town for access to green spaces, with 95% of homes and flats having private outdoor space, with an average size of 249.7m².

“Queen’s Park in Chesterfield has also been a recent recipient of a Green Flag Award, while a brand-new dedicated cycle route has been installed linking the nearby location of Staveley to Markham Vale Business Park, which has encouraged many office workers in the business centre to cycle to work rather than drive.

“Derbyshire County Council recently involved Chesterfield schools in climate action education as part of their curriculum, part of which involves a Climate Leaders Award to inspire children and staff alike.

“The air quality in Chesterfield is also generally considered to be good, and thanks to its close proximity to the Peak District, there are plenty of local escapes into the hills as well as cycling routes throughout the Peaks, helping locals exercise in one of the most beautiful areas of the country.”

Ryan Wilkes, Destination Chesterfield Board Member celebrated the news, commenting: “I’m proud to see Chesterfield listed as one of the UK’s greenest towns.

“Our town boasts a plethora of picturesque outdoor spaces for people to enjoy and of course sits alongside the world-famous Peak District National Park.

“Many of our organisations are also working to become greener and implement sustainability practices, with green growth across the East Midlands region three times higher than it was in 2015.

“Our central location and excellent public transport links also help to ensure Chesterfield offers an excellent quality of life for its residents.”

Find out more about living in Chesterfield: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

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Long-awaited PEAK gateway resort breaks ground

The long-awaited PEAK gateway resort situated on the eastern boundary of the Peak District has broken ground. Phase One is scheduled to open to visitors 2027/8.

Consented on 283 acres (114 hectares) of reclaimed former opencast land, PEAK proposes the UK’s first purpose built national park gateway ‘resort town’.

PEAK Gateway will offer visitors world class facilities and services as a base from which to access the trails and attractions of the 550 square mile National Park. Similar to a ski resort, PEAK Gateway has visitor mobility at its heart. PEAK’s mobility system will link up the trails and country lanes of the Peak District without the need for a car and help establish the area as the largest integrated off and on road cycling and hiking region in the UK.

Planning approvals totalling 1.8mft2 (168,000m2) have been granted to facilitate a multi-branded mixed use development available to both day and stay visitors. The approvals offer extensive experiential retail, a wide range of leisure and educational facilities, a wellness clinic with operating theatres, 2,850 car parking spaces and up to 2,000 hotel rooms and 250 holiday lodges. The development has consent for its own energy park.

PEAK Gateway will be delivered by way of an incremental and phased ground leasing strategy. Heads of terms have already been agreed for the first two anchor plots with Colliers acting as Real Estate Adviser and leasing agents for Birchall Properties, the land owner. Phase One represents in the region of 30% of the consented development and is scheduled to open 2027/8.

Plan of new PEAK Gateway building - artist impression from high vantage point

Fully implemented PEAK has the potential to achieve a development value of over £1billion and sustain thousands of jobs. Around 70% of the reclaimed estate will be set aside for continued biodiversity gains as well as offer nature connectivity to encourage people’s engagement and delight in nature.

Sheffield City Region granted £2.85m for the construction of the now completed resort public highway access from A61 interchange at Sheepbridge and the new public rights of way around surrounding the resort estate.

The commencement of land formation works continues the delivery of the outcomes promised by the grant. Booths Group https://theboothgroup.co.uk/ have been appointed lead contractor for the land formation activity.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Acting Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “PEAK offers an opportunity to use formerly open cast land in a way that supports nature but also creates new opportunities for our residents and increases the number of visitors coming to Chesterfield. It is great to see work starting on site and I look forward to seeing the development progress.”

Scott Knowles CEO of the East Midlands Chamber of Commerce said: “PEAK’s gateway manifesto provides the opportunity for regional businesses to participate in the construction and operation of a world class ESG exemplar enterprise celebrating and making available the cultural and natural assets of our region.”

Jo Dilley Managing Director Visit Peak District and Derbyshire said: “The PEAK Gateway development, is a transformative project that will redefine the visitor experience in the Peak District. With the introduction of high quality serviced hotels, we will be able to cater to more groups and international visitors, offering world-class accommodations and amenities. The sustainable transport solution at the heart of PEAK will not only enhance the visitor experience by providing seamless access to the park’s trails and attractions but also significantly reduce car traffic in busy hotspot areas, a change
that will be warmly welcomed by local residents. This development marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and enjoyable future for all who visit and live in and around the Peak District.”

James Shorthouse, Head of Alternative Markets at Colliers Real Estate said “We are delighted to have advised PEAK, and to be delivering exciting new developments bringing visitors and employment to Chesterfield and the East Midlands region of the UK.”

For enquires please contact james.shorthouse@colliers.com

Matthew Booth, Founder of The Booth Group, highlighted the significance of the project, stating: “This is a three year programme for Booth’s and perfectly complements our specialism of regenerative land solutions bringing challenging landscapes back into beneficial use. We are thrilled to be part of the iconic Peak Gateway development, activating the UK’s growth potential through the regeneration of land for local communities and legacy value.”

Rupert Carr of Birchall Properties said: “From the outset PEAK has been a land first business, over 30 years and millions of pounds has been invested in the revival of the former opencast estate and the obtaining of now implementable planning permissions. It’s great to finally be underway and to be involved in a regenerative enterprise capable of activating and sustaining clean growth in the regional visitor economy”. For enquiries, visit the PEAK community information website https://www.peakliaison.co.uk/enquiries

Location of PEAK Gateway

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Chesterfield couple continue business success with launch of new cocktail bar

An entrepreneurial couple are continuing to build on their success in Chesterfield, following the successful launch of a new town centre cocktail bar.

Gavin and Hannah Grainger, who recently relocated the popular Bottle & Thyme restaurant to larger premises on Elder Way, have now opened a new bar on the site of the restaurant’s previous location.

The latest addition to the town, Elder, is a neighbourhood wine and cocktail bar, serving coffee and grilled cheese by day and an extensive wine menu and charcuterie and cheese boards by night.

Speaking about their latest launch, Gavin commented: “Moving Bottle & Thyme over to its new home on Elder Way has been amazing and so well received. The new venue definitely does have more of a city vibe with it’s big, open, airy space but we also wanted to keep the small, intimate nature of our old venue and offer something a little different to Bottle & Thyme.

“Elder is a grown-up, sophisticated place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of life and enjoy the finest things in life; good coffee, wine and cheese. We wanted to bring something to our town that isn’t currently on offer and feel Elder achieves this with its offering.

Plate of meditteranian food including bread, olives and cheeses

“Having both been raised in Chesterfield and currently bringing our own two boys up in the town, we are really passionate about developing the area and creating special places for people to share and enjoy. We want to bring people into the town centre from the town and surrounding areas and cities to support the town’s growth and other local businesses. We have a brilliant team that is currently growing and we are thrilled to be able to provide exciting job opportunities to our town.”

Speaking about their decision to invest further in our town centre, the couple added: “We really feel Chesterfield is on the brink of lots of exciting change. If anything we’ve learnt from Bottle & Thyme is that there is a significant market of people in Chesterfield who want to come out to enjoy quality products, service and something a bit different; creating a huge potential for independent businesses looking to embark on a new project.

“Something that we really value running businesses in Chesterfield is the incredibly supportive relationship businesses have with one another, for example visiting each other on Christmas do’s or special occasions, encouraging chats and promoting each other to customers.

“We can’t stress how grateful we are for the support given to us by our town so far. We have been running for 8 years and it is this support that has enabled us to expand to our new bigger premises to be able to offer so much more to the town centre. If people want to see change, they need to be part of it, alongside the independents taking the leap into our lovely town.

Elder 6

“Increased footfall in the town is a necessity, with local residents actively choosing to spend money within their town centre as opposed to outside of this and online. Our hope and aim is for Chesterfield to be a bustling, busy town with a fantastic offering of retail, hospitality and leisure and we really feel this can be achieved.

You can find Elder at 15-17 Knifesmithgate, S40 1RL in the town centre, just opposite Bottle & Thyme. The business is active on Instagram @elder_chesterfield and Facebook, detailing its products and upcoming events. Bookings can be made over the phone 03300161365 or via email hello@elderchesterfield.co.uk

Planning your visit to Chesterfield? Find out more about how to make the most of your stay here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

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‘2025 will be transformative for Chesterfield’

Destination Chesterfield Board Member, Ann Fomukong-Boden looks ahead to an exciting new year for our town.

2025 will be a transformative year for Chesterfield, and I’m filled with anticipation and optimism about the progress we’re about to see.

The town centre is evolving, ensuring it becomes a place we want to spend our leisure time, not just a necessary stop on the to-do list. I love the surprise of spotting further progress each week to our historic outdoor market. Its makeover combines new and old perfectly with our town’s pump now displayed in full glory.

Improved facilities will encourage a more diverse range of traders, and I keep picturing myself strolling across our high street. With the aroma of fresh baked goods and sizzling street food filling the air, how could you resist stopping for a snack?! New Square will also become a hub of activity, hosting vibrant events and entertainment.

Our town’s museum and the Pomegranate Theatre’s transformation move closer to completion. Picture yourself sipping a steaming latte in the new café bar; its inviting ambience makes it ideal for catching up with friends. An expanded theatre will host bigger and better concerts and performances. Meanwhile, the reconfigured museum will offer hands-on exhibits, with improved technology inviting visitors to touch, explore, and engage with our rich history.

Just a short ride on the bus or stroll along our beautiful canal, and you’ll arrive in Staveley town centre – a destination also undergoing a transformation. Your youngsters will love exploring new outdoor play areas.

Personally, I recommend taking the canal towpath for the most tranquil experience. Already one of Derbyshire’s most beautiful walking and cycling spots, the canal will be enhanced with restored paths and cycleways, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to take in the vivid greenery. In October, the Trans Pennine Bridge was installed at Staveley, a key part of the full project, which will restore the Canal across the Doe Lea Valley to Renishaw, giving you plenty of space to explore.

If Santa bought you a new calendar for Christmas, then definitely make the most of it by pencilling our town’s upcoming event highlights!

Experience our superb community spirit at the Ashgate Hospice Sparkle Walk, where glowing lights and laughter guide you through the evening.

Celebrate love and diversity at Chesterfield Pride, a kaleidoscope of music, colour, and joy.

For beer lovers, the Barrow Hill Rail Ale Festival offers the perfect mix of hoppy aromas and live entertainment, set amongst the backdrop of classic locomotives to celebrate our proud rail heritage.

What else can you look forward to in Chesterfield in 2025? Find out at: www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/

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