Visiting

Chatsworth opens newly-refurbished woodland playground

The woodland playground at Chatsworth’s farmyard has officially reopened, following an extensive refurbishment.

Featuring a giant Great Spotted Woodpecker, secret tunnel, climbing wall and even a zip wire, the new playground offers hours of adventures for children and families.

The playground also has climbing frames, swings, a giant sand play area, and an Archimedes screw to fetch water from the stream. The refurbishment forms part of the year-long programme of events and activities coming to Chatsworth under the theme of ‘Celebrating Childhood’, encouraging visitors to experience Chatsworth and its rich history from a new perspective.

Speaking about the ‘Celebrating Childhood’ theme, Jane Marriott, Director of Chatsworth House Trust, said: “Through this season celebrating childhood, we hope that our visitors can experience Chatsworth from a new perspective – one that is playful and inquisitive, that celebrates learning and encourages a deeper connection and enjoyment of Chatsworth’s rich history.

“Childhood is something that unites us all. This year we will continue to commission new and exciting artists, introduce our first Chatsworth Family Festival, and develop our learning programme that is packed with opportunities to develop new skill. We look forward to welcoming visitors of all ages to join us for a new perspective at Chatsworth.”

William Burlington, Chairman of Chatsworth House Trust, said: “We are thrilled that 2024 will be a year of storytelling, discovery and play as we celebrate children and childhood at Chatsworth throughout the year.”

The playground also has a coffee hut and a picnic area, and is accessible for everyone with new pathways and ramp access.

Access to the adventure playground is included with all house, garden or farmyard tickets. To book, visit: www.chatsworth.org/visit-chatsworth/book-tickets

Looking for more family-friendly things to do in Chesterfield? Head over to our places to visit page.  and browse the range of upcoming events taking place in our town.

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 - Adventure Playground

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

Around 7,000 fans gather at Town Hall to celebrate Chesterfield FC’s title win

Around 7,000 Chesterfield FC supporters turned out in the town centre to celebrate the club’s return to the English Football League at the weekend.

Fans gathered outside Chesterfield Town Hall on Sunday 21 April to welcome players and coaching staff out on to the balcony and bring a truly memorable season to a close.

The event, organised by Chesterfield Borough Council – in partnership with Chesterfield Football Club – brought a party atmosphere to the town centre, with live music and entertainment provided to help get fans into the spirit.

As well as appearing on the balcony, first team players and coaching staff took part in a short walkabout in front of the Town Hall – giving supporters the chance to get photos and autographs.

Following the appearance on the balcony and walkabout, the club’s players and coaching staff attended a civic reception with representatives from the council and other local dignitaries.

During the civic ceremony Leader of the council, Councillor Tricia Gilby, presented a Silver Salver to the Club, to formally acknowledge the achievements of this season.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of the Council, said: “We’d like to congratulate Chesterfield Football Club once again on their promotion back into the English Football League. It is great for the Club and for their loyal band of supporters but also great for the town and the borough. A successful football club brings new visitors to the town and is a vital part of Chesterfield’s economy.

“Sunday was a brilliant occasion for the club and the town and it was great to see so many supporters turn out.”

John Croot, Chief Executive of Chesterfield FC, said: “It was a wonderful day for everyone associated with the club and fantastic to see so many supporters there, making it a real community event.

“I would like to thank Chesterfield Borough Council for their hospitality.”

Find out more about the wide range of exciting events coming up in Chesterfield.

Chesterfield Football Club and Chesterfield Borough Council support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

Chesterfield FC trophy parade town hall

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

North Derbyshire’s Peak Village doubles site turnover in just three years

The organisation which runs the Peak Village retail park in Rowsley, near Chesterfield has reported major success at the centre in recent years.

In the past twelve months alone, Peak Village has welcomed 535,000 visitors through its gates and has now appointed new letting agents to capitalise on the centre’s recent growth.

Devonshire Property Group, part of the portfolio of Devonshire Group businesses, has appointed FHP Property Consultants to support with new lettings and lease renewal negotiations.

The new appointment follows strong 2023-24 performance at Peak Village with continued investment and proactive asset management from Devonshire Property Group delivering £8m in turnover for the financial year, up over £4m in the space of three years.

Amidst difficult trading conditions in the post-pandemic period, diversifying the centre’s offering, as well as delivering a mix of independent and high street brands, has also had a noted impact on footfall at the site, with over half a million people coming to sample what Peak Village has to offer.

In the last eight months alone, Peak Village has welcomed three new retailers to the centre, with Ashbourne-based premium lifestyle and country clothing and footwear retailer Henmores, local independent business Baxter & Co and artists and makers collective, The Derbyshire Makers all opening stores.

FHP will work with Devonshire Property Group to support the centre as it aims to continue evolving its retail and leisure mix to drive further footfall and attract local independent, luxury and national brands.

FHP has the largest dedicated retail and leisure team of any agents in the Midlands, and has claimed the EG award for “Most Active Retail Agent in the East Midlands” for 12 successive years and was ranked 5th nationally in 2023 for retail and leisure space transacted.

Katayune Jacquin, centre manager at Peak Village, added: “Devonshire Property Group is committed to bringing the most desirable, exciting and in-demand retailers to Peak Village. Working with FHP is a crucial part of our strategy for making the centre the go-to destination for both those from the region and the many tourists who visit Derbyshire every year. The past few years have been incredibly difficult for the retail industry, and I think it’s a testament to our resilience and approach to investment that Peak Village has not only been able to weather those storms but thrive.”

Tom Wragg, Associate Director at FHP said: “We are excited to be working with Devonshire Property Group in supporting the evolution of Peak Village and bringing premium retailer and leisure operators into the scheme alongside exciting independent and regional businesses. At FHP we pride ourselves in being a national agent with a regional presence which puts us in a prime position to attract the right mix of operators for Peak Village. We are already seeing strong levels of interest from high quality national retailers and look forward to building on that momentum.”

The Devonshire Group purchased Peak Village in 2021, with the aim of revitalising the centre by drawing on local expertise to enhance the site’s role in the economic and employment landscape of the Derbyshire Dales, as well as supporting the local community.

Significant investment since then – including ongoing work to transform the site’s central courtyard and Massarella conservatory to provide a modernised and more welcoming areas for customers – has enabled the site to continue improving and growing.

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

Peak Village Summer

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

Council appoints preferred bidder in the search for new Tapton Park Golf Course operator

Chesterfield Borough Council has appointed Link Golf UK as its preferred bidder in its search for a new operator to run Tapton Park Golf Course.

Since 2009 Sheffield City Trust has fulfilled the role under a lease agreement with the council, however the Trust will cease to operate later this year and the council has been seeking a new operator to take over the running of the courses and clubhouse.

Link Golf UK – formerly known as Love Golf – was selected as the preferred bidder following a marketing exercise which prioritised finding a suitably qualified operator with the financial ability to being fresh investment to the courses and clubhouse and a proven track record of increasing golf participation and delivering a range of community outreach activities.

Approval for the council to now enter into detailed negotiations was given by the council’s Cabinet on Tuesday 16 April. Subject to these proving successful, it is hoped Link Golf UK will officially take on the golf course lease from this summer.

Councillor Jonathan Davies, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “Tapton Park Golf Course is an important facility with fantastic potential in beautiful parkland.

“In seeking a new operator to look after the courses and clubhouse, we set out several long-term objectives with the intention of retaining it as a pay-and-play course that is open to all.

“Link Golf UK has proven expertise and experience of operating municipal golf courses. It has funding to invest in Tapton’s courses and clubhouse to maintain them to a high standard. It also offers a strong community outreach programme – and a commitment to work closely with the resident members’ club, which I know the members have welcomed.

“We will now begin detailed negotiations to finalise the terms of the lease. If and when Link Golf UK is formally appointed, we will work with it to announce the change-over date and address any issues that may affect customers. We anticipate that this will happen this summer.”

Tapton Park Golf Course features a full 18-hole course, 9-hole course, 6-hole pitch and putt course, a practice area, driving range, outbuildings, and a clubhouse. The course is built on parkland which was formerly part of the Tapton House estate.

In a joint statement, Andrew Terry and Joe Jackson, Directors of Link Golf UK, said: “We’re incredibly excited about the opportunity to breathe new life into Tapton Park Golf Course, including the driving range and clubhouse.

“Recognising its rich legacy we’re committed to maintaining its accessibility as a family-friendly venue. Our vision is to transform Tapton Park into a dynamic hub for family engagement, offering a range of activities that cater to all ages and skill levels. By incorporating the latest technology into the driving range and enhancing the overall experience, we aim to create a vibrant atmosphere where families can come together and enjoy quality time.

“Leveraging our proven track record in revitalising golf facilities, we’re confident in our ability to invest and innovate at Tapton Park. We look forward to working closely with Chesterfield Borough Council and the resident members club to ensure a bright and prosperous future for this beloved community asset.”

John Pearson, Chair of Tapton Park Golf Club, said: “Based on our initial discussions with Link Golf UK I am very optimistic for the future of Tapton Park Golf Club. We are really looking forward to working with Andrew and Joe to preserve and enhance the existing golf facilities for the benefit of the club’s members, local residents and visitors.”

Tapton Golf Course Chesterfield

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

Stanedge Golf Club features in popular YouTube TV series

A golf club set in the North Derbyshire countryside, just outside of Chesterfield has been featured in a popular YouTube TV series.

The docuseries Changing the Business of Golf is produced by Syngenta, and follows Stanedge owner and former professional golfer, Fame Tate.

In February 2022, golf in the UK was booming and Fame had brought Stanedge Golf Club back from the brink of extinction, transforming it into a thriving business at the heart of the community.

The first-time business owner has continued to ring the changes inside and out since then, but the unforeseen challenge of a sudden serious illness left the future of Stanedge hanging in the balance.

“Reflection is a wonderful thing and I’ve drawn a lot of positives from being forced to step away from the business,” says Fame in the new episode.

“It made me look at how I operate, the functionality of the business and my own time-management. Being here seven days a week, 365 days a year is just not possible.”

The episode also features key team members who stepped up in testing times, explaining how they coped with the overnight loss of their leader.

In the two years since Changing the Business of Golf was last at Stanedge, golf has continued to thrive in the UK, but clubs and courses have had to adapt to new customers, different expectations and fresh financial pressures.

Fame explains how Stanedge has continued to grow and push forward towards its targets, employing tactics to future-proof its long-term sustainability.

“Our core values have remained the same but obviously the business has changed and developed. I’ve had to change, everyone’s had to change and be on that journey,” she says.

The latest episode can be viewed below, and you can catch all previous episodes following Fame’s remarkable journey to transform the customer experience and make her club a friendly and inclusive community venue.

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

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

Cards Direct opens new store at Vicar Lane

Chesterfield’s Vicar Lane Shopping Centre has announced the arrival of greeting cards, gifts and partyware shop Cards Direct, which has now opened its doors to customers.

The store sells a range of affordable greeting cards, gift wrap and stationery. It also offers bespoke balloon bouquets and balloon personalisation, with a click and collect service in store. The new store will be located opposite Waterstones and will be open from 9am-5.30pm Monday – Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sundays.

Cards Direct was established in 2012 and currently has more than 60 stores in high streets and shopping centres in the UK. The business says it prides itself on offering outstanding customer service, quality products and above all, value for money.

The new store follows other recent exciting openings at the centre, including Coffee #1, Street Spirit and Brand Runner. The centre is home to several nationally-recognised retailers including Waterstones, F.Hinds, Superdrug, Holland and Barrett, River Island and New Look.

cards direct

A wide range of unique independent shops and cafes are also based at Vicar Lane, including Qoozies, Shop Indie, Clarissa’s Interiors, The Little Ark and more.

There are events planned at intervals during the year at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre with accompanying displays or entertainment in St. James’ Square. For more information visit www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk

Shaun Brown, Centre Manager at Vicar Lane said: “We’re thrilled that Card Directs has joined the line-up of stores here at Vicar Lane and we look forward to welcoming others in the near future.”

With its historic market, plenty of fun festivals and events to attend, and mix of independent and national retailers, Chesterfield Town Centre is a great place to enjoy shopping whilst also meeting family and friends for a catch-up. Find out more about visiting Chesterfield here.

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

vicar lane chesterfield town centre shopping

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

Celebration event to mark Chesterfield Football Club’s return to the English Football League

Chesterfield Football Club’s loyal supporters are being invited to attend an official celebration event to mark the club’s return to the English Football League.

After the club claimed the Vanarama National League title on Saturday 23 March, Chesterfield Borough Council – working in partnership with the club – is pleased to confirm that the event will take place on Sunday 21 April.

Celebrations will get underway at the SMH Group Stadium at 2.30pm with the club’s players, coaching and backroom staff boarding open top buses to travel to the Town Hall.

The buses will travel along Sheffield Road, around Holywell Cross (the Donut), and then on to Saltergate and Rose Hill East, arriving at the Town Hall at 3pm.

Supporters are invited to join in the celebrations outside the Town Hall in a dedicated traffic free fan zone, where they will be able to see the trophy once again lifted on the balcony and bring a truly memorable season to a close.

The team will appear on the balcony at approximately 3.30pm, but fans are invited to arrive at the fan zone from 1.30pm and kickstart the celebrations from approximately 2pm.

After their balcony appearance, the club will attend a civic reception at the Town Hall.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Brough Council, said: “Our congratulations to Chesterfield Football Club on their promotion back into the English Football League. It is great for the Club and for their loyal band of supporters but also great for the town and the borough. A successful football club brings new visitors to the town and is a vital part of Chesterfield’s economy.

“The council and club both recognise the value of putting Chesterfield’s communities at the heart of everything we do. It’s therefore important that we come together and celebrate the club’s success with our communities.

“We are looking forward to welcoming the club and especially Paul Cook, his coaching and the players to the Town Hall. We hope to see plenty of supporters coming along and joining in with the celebrations too. It should be another brilliant occasion for the club and the town.”

Chesterfield Football Club’s Chief Executive, John Croot, said: ‘We would like to thank Chesterfield Borough Council for honouring us in recognition of our achievements this season.

“We are proud of our standing in the community and it will be fantastic to provide our supporters with another opportunity to celebrate our return to the Football League.”

Some roads will be closed on the day to allow the buses to pass through and spectators to attend safely. Details of the road closures will be shared on the council’s website.

Those attending the event are advised that alcohol is not permitted in the fan zone.

CFC Goal celebration vs Boreham Wood

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , ,

New town square in Clay Cross to be named Baileys Square

The Clay Cross Town Board has officially revealed the name of the new town square, which is to be built as part of the town’s redevelopment.

Baileys Square is set to provide residents, businesses and visitors with a vibrant day and night-time economy.

The new name is based on an old map of Clay Cross, featuring ‘Bailey’s Square’ in the same location as the new development, brought by the Town Centre Regeneration project.

The square will feature an open space, well-suited for future activities and markets.

Baileys Square will be a place to meet with family and friends, hosting a unique selection of places to wine and dine, a place for families to take part in experiences and crafts; and enjoy vibrant events.

The Clay Cross Town Deal project will enhance Clay Cross’ evening economy with a wider food and leisure offer thanks to the flexible business units coming as part of Baileys Square.

Chair of the Clay Cross Town Board and Managing Director of Inspire Design and Development, Lee Barnes, says: “I am extremely eager to unveil Baileys Square to the public. It will be a place to host some amazing events, make some fantastic memories for those attending and will become a household name to residents and visitors of Clay Cross, as a substantial leisure space at the heart of Clay Cross.”

Find out more about the Clay Cross Town Deal. 

Clay Cross is one of several towns across the region to receive Town Deal funding from the government to carry out regeneration projects. Locally, Staveley has also received £25m in Town Deal funding, to be used on several projects. Find out more about the Staveley Town Deal here. 

Find out more about the range of development projects currently taking place across Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

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

Clay Cross

Birds’ eye view of Clay Cross Town Centre

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Property and Construction, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

Steam train tour to arrive in Chesterfield and showcase local landmarks

Two steam train tours are set to arrive in Chesterfield, bringing passengers from the south of England to discover our historic landmarks.

The Steam Dreams Rail. Co, provider of unique and magical steam train journeys, will be hosting two incredible day trips to Chesterfield, one from East Anglia to Chatsworth, Crich & Barrow Hill on 8th May and another from London to Chatsworth, Crich & Barrow Hill Rail Ale Festival on 16th May.

The journeys will be pulled by the historic 46100 Royal Scot, providing visitors to immerse themselves in the glamour of yesteryear with an elegant steam-hauled journey. Once passengers arrive in Chesterfield, they will then be able to take part in several excursions around North Derbyshire’s landmarks.

Passengers are able to travel in one of three classes, including Pullman Dining, First Cass or Premium Standard.

A spokesperson for The Steam Dreams Rail. Co explained that there is plenty of exciting activities to get involved in whilst on the tour: “You can sink into your seats and relax as the train sets out for a wonderful journey through Amber Valley to the Peak District.

“Here, you have the option to continue your journey back in time to the Crich Tramway Museum, an immersive museum experience set within a recreated period village, where you can enjoy a ride on board the vintage trams. For glamour-seekers, your indulgent journey can be extended to the elegance of Chatsworth House. Alternatively, visit the town of Chesterfield or continue to Barrow Hill before we embark on our return journey aboard the same beautifully restored vintage carriages in which we started our journey.”

Chatsworth

Chatsworth House

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield commented: “We’re excited to welcome passengers from the Steam Dreams Rail Co. tours to our historic town and surrounding areas.

“Being the place where George Stephenson spent the final years of his life, Chesterfield has always had a strong connection with steam.

“It will be wonderful to see the iconic 46100 Royal Scot arriving here, and I hope that passengers enjoy seeing our unique Crooked Spire, the beauty of Chatsworth and the Peak District, and of course the wonderful locomotives at Barrow Hill Roundhouse.”

Barrow hill

Barrow Hill Roundhouse, Chesterfield

For further information and to book call 01483 209888 or visit www.steamdreams.co.uk

Planning your visit to Chesterfield? Find out more about the latest events, activities and things to do in our historic town.

Royal Scot stream train

46100 Royal Scot: Image credited to Gordan Edgar

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

Vibrant new children’s nursery to open in Brimington

A brand new children’s nursery will be opening in Brimington this May, and prospective parents and families are invited to pay a visit.

Heywood House will provide quality childcare for children aged 3 months to 5 years in a fun, vibrant and safe learning environment with fresh and healthy meals delivered every day.

The owners have over 35 years’ experience within the childcare sector. Having purchased the grade II listed building on High Street, Brimington last Autumn, substantial renovation works have been made to create a vibrant and welcoming children’s nursery for all.

The nursery will be open from 7.15am until 6pm 52 weeks a year excluding Bank Holidays. Early Years funded places are available. The striking feature of the nursery is its location, within a charming and attractive grade II listed building which has been redecorated with fun bright colours.

Its gardens to the rear have been extensively renovated so that the children can learn and develop in a secure green space, outdoors with nature, whilst having fun with their friends.

Company Director Matt Bell said: “As an organisation, we strive to provide the highest quality care for every child in a safe and friendly environment. This enables all our children to learn whilst having fun and reaching their full potential in preparation for school.

“The nursery will be Ofsted registered and we follow the Birth to 5 Matters guidance and the setting will be a mix of child centred and adult led learning. We’d also like to thank the Vision Derbyshire Business Start-Up team for helping us on our way with this new venture in Brimington.”

The nursery will officially open its doors in May 2024, but has open days planned throughout April for parents and carers to have a look around. These are:

  • 10th April 11.00 – 14.00
  • 13th April 11.00 – 14.00
  • 6th May 11.00 – 14.00

Find out more about the Vision Derbyshire business support scheme, and other initiatives available for businesses in Chesterfield.

Did you know Chesterfield was recently ranked as one of the best places in the UK to raise a family? Find out about why our town is a great place to live here.

heywood house exterior 2

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

Project showcases young artists in Chesterfield

Young artists in Chesterfield staged a new art exhibition, as part of the Junction Arts project Next Gen, which helps young people launch creative careers.

The exhibition, entitled Self Expression, was on display at West Studios from the 25th to the 28th of March and featured over 30 artworks. The collection included portraits, postcard art, spray paint murals, illustrations, and pottery.

The group of eight aged between 16-25 years, have been working together for the last five months to create their debut exhibition, showcasing the artworks they have created during Next Gen workshops.

The group were given the challenge of choosing the theme, creating the marketing, curating the exhibition and organising a private view event themselves. The four-day event attracted many visitors and positive comments including. “Great to see young people expressing themselves through art. Lots of fresh ideas, keep at it. It will enrich your life and the lives of those who see it.” “Exciting artworks on show! What will these artists do next?!”

Next Gen is a Junction Arts project that has been running as part of a wider ‘POV’ project since June 2022 and is delivered in partnership with Bassetlaw CVS, Rhubarb Farm, Centre Place, Bassetlaw Action Centre, Inspire, Voluntary Action Doncaster, South Yorkshire Community Foundation. There have been similar projects delivered across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and South Yorkshire to include the point of view of young people in volunteering and open up voluntary organisations to 16-24-year-olds.

The project was funded by Arts Council England Volunteering Futures fund and aimed to encourage young people to volunteer through the arts.

Based on the group’s interests, Junction Arts runs a fortnightly creative session, working with different artists to give the young people an opportunity to be creative, meet people with similar interests and learn from professionals. Sessions have included portraits, spray painting, pottery, sign-writing and architectural design!

Next Gen Project Coordinator, Jemma Burton said: “I have been so impressed by the work that our Next Gen group have created, so to see it all in one place at the Self Expression Exhibition was a proud moment for them, their families and for Junction Arts!

“The exhibition celebrated the young people’s artwork and provided a platform for their voice. None of the young people had been part of a public art exhibition before or had been involved in organising one – so it was a lot of hard work and a bit of a learning curve, but they all did an amazing job.

“Next Gen aims to give young people an insight into different creative careers, help them to develop new skills, grow their confidence and make useful connections. The project will continue, with the group running their own sessions, supported by us. Anyone aged 16-25 years is welcome to join the group, please get in touch!”

If you would like to be part of Next Gen contact; jemma@junctionarts.org.

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.

Junction Arts self expression exhibition participants

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