chesterfield news

Planning permission sought for rail training and innovation centre

Planning permission is being sought for the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) – a modern rail innovation and training centre set to be located next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

If approved the new centre will provide workshop and classroom space to support speciality rail industry training, research and development facilities and commercial space for rail related businesses.

In total the building is expected to cost around £4 million. Funding for the project has been provided through the Staveley Town Deal.

Development of the centre is being delivered by Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, Chesterfield Borough Council and New Rail (part of Newcastle University).

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “The Rail sector offers a fantastic range of high-quality careers and DRIIVe is all about ensuing our residents can receive the skills and training they need to access these opportunities. This is an ambitious project that will create opportunities for generations to come and reflects the council’s aims to expand the local Rail sector.

“I’m delighted that Town Deal funding is being used to support the development of this building because new training facilities like this will improve career prospects and help ensure that Staveley is the place to start, to stay and to grow.”

Mervyn Allcock, general manager at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said: “If it is approved, DRIIVe will help establish Barrow Hill as the home of the rail industry in Chesterfield and we look forward to speaking to companies about the potential benefits of being based at the centre. Any revenue from the building will be used to support the Roundhouse in achieving its aim of preserving our local Rail heritage.”

DRIIVe will provide 1,423 square metres of floor space consisting of classroom and workshop training areas, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial offices.

The centre will support a network of speciality training providers – offering rail-related education from level 2 through to postgraduate training and research.

Becoming a prominent location for rail technology, DRIIVe will also serve as a base for rail-related supply chain businesses which will have access to the very latest research and innovation.

DRIIVe will create about 20 full time jobs and by year five it aims to support around 270 trainees, supporting local people to access highly skilled careers in the rail industry.

Early development and design costs were funded through the Staveley Town Deal Accelerator Fund.

Driive artists impression

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Authentic Asian mini mart opens at Chesterfield Market Hall

Chesterfield Market Hall has welcomed a unique new business, giving customers access to authentic Indian and Pakistani snacks and spices.

Desi Mini Mart will offer a range of products, including sweets, rusks, savories, pakora mix, haleem mix, chaat masala, various biryani masala, all types of curry masala, and a wide selection of spices, giving Asian food lovers a destination to source authentic products for their recipes.

The store will also introduce people in the town to Mini Melts ice cream, made using patented cryogenic technology to provide a unique texture. Flavours available include chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, blueberry, mint chocolate, mango, lime & lemon and cookies & cream.

Naveed Muhammad, owner of Desi Mini Mart commented: “I am passionate about procuring high-quality ingredients which are essential to create delicious and authentic dishes.

“I am so excited to be trading from the Market Hall. The Market Hall is a vibrant and welcoming place, and I am proud to be a part of the community. I love Chesterfield as a whole. It is a friendly and welcoming town, with a strong sense of community.

“I would encourage people in the town and further afield to support local independents in the run-up to Christmas. Shopping local is a great way to support the local economy and to get to know your community. It is also a way to ensure that you are getting authentic, high-quality products.”

Find out more about the benefits of investing in Chesterfield, the perfect location to start up your business. 

Shopping in Chesterfield

Enjoy the unique shopping experience and atmosphere here in Chesterfield.

From sampling tasty food and drink to experiencing events and leisure activities. Offering the best of both worlds, you can browse a range of independent and unique shops, plus several high-street retail brands.

For more information on shopping in the town, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/

Desi Mini Mart Pic

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United Cast Bar inspires Brookfield School pupils by hosting the 2023 student challenge

Chesterfield’s United Cast Bar is continuing to play its part in inspiring the next generation of engineers in the town, by hosting a local school to help them discover the exciting pathways available into the sector.

A group of year 10 students from Brookfield School Chesterfield, all whom have an interest in STEM subjects, were challenged to create a short boardroom presentation on the following;

  • The history of iron
  • Its impact and position in Chesterfield over the last 50 years
  • The uses of irons in modern life
  • The environmental future of iron-making

A total of 27 students wanted to be involved with the challenge and were split into 9 teams of 3. After some fantastic presentations, 4 groups were shortlisted for first, second and 2 x third-place positions.

United Cast Bar’s aim is to encourage local young people to understand the development and importance of the industry in the local Community, the careers that are available in the manufacturing and engineering industries locally and to show what interesting and rewarding careers these industries can offer.

The winners were invited to visit United Cast Bar to give their presentations to members of the management team, have a tour of the factory, join the team for lunch and receive their prizes.

United cast bar brookfield

“It was fantastic to see the work done and learn some interesting facts the children had researched about cast iron and its importance to the local area. A successful and enjoyable day was had by all” James Brand UCB Foundries Managing Director remarked, “the professionalism the students showed in both their research and in presenting their results – it was a great pleasure to welcome them to UCB.”

Since 2014, United Cast Bar has also been involved in the Made in Chesterfield initiative, which sees businesses offering tours of their premises to showcase the range of careers available in STEM sectors. Read more about the 2023 Made in Chesterfield festival here. 

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

Made in Chesterfield UCB

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Prestigious King’s Awards for Chesterfield Volunteer Centre and Wilmott Dixon

Two organisations which support Chesterfield’s growth and regeneration have been awarded highly prestigious King’s Awards.

Wilmott Dixon, which is a member of the town’s Property and Construction Group King’s Award for Enterprise for Promoting Opportunity. Willmott Dixon was one of only nine companies recognised this year in this category.

It’s the fourth such accolade for the company, and the first from HM King Charles III. It was awarded in recognition of the wide-ranging activities of Willmott Dixon’s people to make society a better place, especially for those who face significant barriers to achieving their full potential in life.

In the last year, four out of five of Wilmott Dixon’s 2000+ workforce have delivered a social value-based activity in their community to improve the life chances of others. This includes mentoring, supporting people with interview training, careers advice and enhancing a local community asset for people to use. In all, last year saw Willmott Dixon’s team create and deliver over 608 community programmes and engage with over 70,000 people in activities to boost their life chances. This led to 88% saying it had a beneficial impact on them.

In total, over 48,000 hours were volunteered by Willmott Dixon people, and this led to over 200 people facing major barriers to work gaining employment through the company’s intervention. Willmott Dixon also helped further drive social mobility among the most vulnerable and less fortunate by spending over £2.5m with social businesses last year.

Rick Willmott explained: “This sense of purpose to help the communities where we work is in the very DNA of our company. From offering opportunities and employability skills for those facing major barriers to employment, to improving buildings so they encourage better community cohesion – our social value projects are an important reason people want to work for us and their impact is something our customers and communities value hugely.

“I want to express my deep appreciation to everyone who’s work has made a difference. This award belongs to us all, and it reflects the passion and dedication we share for helping others.”

Meanwhile, The Volunteer Centre Chesterfield & North East Derbyshire has been awarded The Kings Award for Voluntary Service.  This is the highest Award given to voluntary groups across the UK, and it is awarded for life. The award is for voluntary groups rather than individuals and is seen as the MBE for voluntary groups.

In a correspondence from the KAVS Team The Volunteer Centre were told;

“His Majesty The King has approved the KAVS National Assessment Committee’s recommendation that the volunteers of The Volunteer Centre – Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire should receive The King’s Award for Voluntary Service 2023. This represents a tremendous achievement and we hope that the group’s volunteers will feel immensely proud of it.”

The announcement was made on November 14th and cited officially in the ‘London Gazette’ of the same date.  This will be followed by a local presentation of a cut glass award and an official certificate signed by The King.  In the summer of next year, representatives of The Volunteer Centre will be invited to a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace.

CEO Dave Radford, on hearing the news said: “Obviously we are all tremendously proud of what we have achieved.  Our volunteers worked so hard and they did so much during the pandemic providing a much-needed shopping service to individuals.  The local communities would have struggled without their fantastic help.

“However, it is so much more than that, this isn’t something that is handed out on a plate, it is an Award that shines a light on the fantastic work carried out by volunteers and groups that make a big difference in their communities.  I think it will take sometime to wipe the smile off my face!”

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

community chesterfield award win

Dave Radford, Chesterfield Volunteer Centre with guests at the Chesterfield Volunteer Sector Awards

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Offices at One Waterside Place now fully occupied

Less than 12 months after completion, all six floors of office space at One Waterside Place are now fully occupied, as new tenants move into the building.

The flagship office development, owned by Chesterfield Borough Council, has welcomed Rosewood Wealth Management and another international company, both expanding their presence in Chesterfield. They join BHP Chartered Accounts and Varley which already occupy space in the building.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and cabinet member for economic growth, said: “We invested in One Waterside Place during the pandemic and it was a key element of our economic recovery. To have now fully let the office spaces within the first year of opening shows how our economy is growing and demonstrates how we can compete with the cities around us to attract both investment and jobs.”

Rosewood Wealth Management is a vibrant local business providing a professional and innovative scope of financial services: a complete financial review through to mortgages, pensions, investments and more. Rosewood has the client at the heart of everything they do.

Shannan Pool-Gorman, director and co-founder of Rosewood Wealth Management, said: “Rosewood is proud to be part of the development at Basin Square. We are passionate about supporting the local area and look forward to playing our part in the next development phase for our beautiful town.”

The development of One Waterside Place was led by local property development and investment firm Bolsterstone Group PLC.

One Waterside Place

Peter Swallow, managing director of Bolsterstone Group Plc, and Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “One Waterside Place is a runaway success story having taken less than 12 months to fully let. When planning the commercial element of Chesterfield Waterside at Basin Square, we knew that the proximity of the train station would be a major pull for businesses. It has certainly been the case. We are now looking to deliver the next stages of Basin Square and anticipate similar success.”

One Waterside Place was Highly Commended in the Regeneration and Restoration Project of the Year Award at the 2023 East Midlands Property Dinner organised by Insider Media. It was also Runner Up in the Commercial Development of the Year category at Business Link Magazine’s annual East Midlands Bricks Awards.

One Waterside Place provides bespoke office accommodation for established businesses – offering a modern, high-quality base for ambitious companies looking to grow and thrive in a central and well-connected location.

The 35,000 sq.ft. building delivers Grade A, large floorplate office accommodation, which does not exist elsewhere in Chesterfield. The building incorporates two passenger lifts, raised access flooring, air conditioning, LED lighting, a high-quality entrance foyer, showers, on-site cycle parking facilities as well as an attractive public realm and landscaping.

The building has been designed with sustainability in mind, boasting a BREEAM score of Very Good and an EPC A rating for its energy performance.

One Waterside Place sits within the £75 million first phase of the Basin Square neighbourhood which includes a mixed-use development as part of the £340million Chesterfield Waterside regeneration scheme.

This area will be landscaped to a high-quality standard with the canal basin being at the heart of the scheme, creating a great environment to spend time in on the edge of the town centre alongside a central community hub for occupiers and residents of the Chesterfield Waterside scheme.

The canal basin site has been brought forward with support from the South Yorkshire Combined Authority Infrastructure Fund. One Waterside Place was funded by Chesterfield Borough Council.

Looking for office space to grow your business? Chesterfield has a wide range of premises available to suit your needs.

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Centre Manager at Chesterfield’s Vicar Lane Shopping Centre wins national award

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre Manager, Shaun Brown won a highly commended award for ‘Manager of the Year’ at the Sceptre Awards in London.

The Sceptre Awards is a leading industry event, recognising talent and excellence in the retail sector across the UK.

Shaun was awarded for his exceptional performance and professionalism in getting the centre back on track post-COVID whilst forging a new direction for the scheme as it enters a new phase in its growth.

His energies have been focused on the implementation of new car parking facilities and training his award-winning security team. He has also been imperative in supporting the independent businesses at Vicar Lane and strives to look at ways for the retailers to boost their sales.

The recent installation of the giant outdoor screen has resulted in a free prominent promotional space for tenants.

As a military veteran, he supports key community initiatives such as the STAND TO project which extends help to the families and loved ones of the ex-force’s personnel.

He strives to make the shopping centre a recognised safe space and bringing a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to those adjusting to civilian life and working through their own complex issues.

Shaun commented: “I was delighted to be awarded highly commended for Manager of the Year. I feel proud of this recognition and will continue to focus my efforts on supporting all the retailers at the centre and providing a safe and inclusive place for the community.”

For more information about Vicar Lane please visit: https://www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk/

Chesterfield has everything you need for the perfect Christmas. Find out more about the best local gifts, food and drink, events and activities taking place in the town by visiting our Christmas in Chesterfield page. 

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.

shaun brown vicar lane

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East Midlands economy shows resilience as regional unemployment remains under 4%

The East Midlands’ unemployment rate has remained at 3.7% for the fourth month running, new figures by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show.

The data, for the period between July and September 2023, means the proportion of working-age people in the region who do not currently have a job but are actively looking for work has been below 4% since the three months to October 2021 – almost two years.

Nationally, the unemployment rate is half a percentage point higher at 4.2%, although the economic inactivity rate for 16 to 64-year-olds – which measures the number of working-age people who have dropped out of the labour market for reasons such as retirement, caring duties, long-term ill health or studying – is 21% for both the UK and East Midlands. This remains above a pre-pandemic trend around the 19% mark.

East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “The fact our region’s unemployment rate has remained at a relatively low level for such a prolonged period is testament to the efforts and resilience of our region’s business community in the face of significant economic challenges.

“Rising economic inactivity has been one of the greatest concerns over the past couple of years as it led to a dwindling labour market, which has restricted capacity – and therefore the ability to grow, raise productivity and bring prices down.

“While this rate remains above pre-Covid levels, it’s pleasing to see this has now come down by about 2% throughout this year, giving firms more room to manoeuvre.

“However, our own research shows there is no room for complacency. Our Quarterly Economic Survey has highlighted a slight growth in the region’s workforce, with 60% of East Midlands businesses adding to headcount in the first quarter of 2023, rising to 62% in Q2 and 63% in Q3.

“Employment prospects look weaker going forward with the proportion of firms expecting to recruit in the coming months falling by a net 8%, amid slowing demand for our region’s businesses products and services from both domestic and international customers.

“Many employers continue to face challenges with filling job vacancies. While 58% of organisations attempted to recruit during Q3, two-thirds (67%) of those experienced problems in finding suitable staff.

“This illustrates how we really need a dedicated Government policy that supports companies to invest in their people, whether that be in upskilling their existing workforce or reskilling prospective employees to fill skills gaps.

“In our regional economic blueprint, A Centre of Trading Excellence: A Business Manifesto for Growth in the East Midlands and Beyond, investment is one of the ‘four Is’ we urge Government to prioritise – and next week’s Autumn Statement provides a great opportunity to address this.

“We have set out a list of policies we believe will make the required difference, including introducing flexible incentives for businesses that invest in staff training and bringing forward the introduction of the Lifelong Loan Entitlement to support retraining and the retainment of an older workforce.

“We must also tailor policies to recognise the diversity of people who are out of work and avoid a one-size-fits-all solution. We would also like to see Government work with businesses to offer support, and share best practice, on what a flexible and inclusive workplace looks like as this is another vital ingredient in enticing people back to work.”

Chesterfield has a quality workforce, and sits between several universities in Sheffield, Nottingham and Derby. Find out more about why our town is an excellent location to base your business. 

Commerce House, East Midlands Chamber

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Chesterfield Champions shortlisted in the inaugural unLTD Business Awards

Several businesses in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have been shortlisted in the unLTD Business Awards.

The inaugural unLTD Business Awards celebrate the best Start Ups, SMEs and Entrepreneurs in the South Yorkshire region who are helping to drive the local economy forward.

Chesterfield-based CMP Legal, a niche commercial law firm that specialises in corporate, commercial, dispute resolution and employment law has been shortlisted as a Finalist for the Legal Company of the Year Award at the ceremony.

Stacey Pocock, Co-Founder of CMP Legal said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted as a Finalist for the Legal Company of the Year Award at the unLTD Business Awards 2023 and I’m very proud of every single team member who has contributed to our success.

“We’ve been in business for just under three years and to be nominated alongside such well known legal firms is a testament to the impact that CMP Legal has had on the legal services market, since we emerged onto the scene.”

CMP Legal Team

CMP Legal team

In addition, Redbrik Estate Agents has been shortlisted for Property & Construction Company of the Year. SMH Group has also made it onto the list of finalists in the Finance & Accountancy Company of the Year category.

Latsly, another Chesterfield Champion, The Children’s Hospital Charity has been nominated as a finalist in the Best Not For Profit, Charity or Social Enterprise category.

The winners will be announced at the unLTD Business Awards on 30th November 2023 at the Peddler Warehouse in Sheffield. The awards will be hosted by The Chase’s Paul Sinha and will feature entertainment from local musicians, DJs and circus performers.

Find out more about how your organisation could become part of Chesterfield’s vibrant business community. 

CMP Legal, SMH Group, Redbrik Estate Agents, and The Children’s Hospital Charity support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

View of the Crooked Spire from above

Image courtesy of Derbyshire Economic Partnership

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Spireites put Chesterfield on the map with more than half a million viewers for FA Cup fixture

Chesterfield Football Club is celebrating its part in raising the profile of our town, following the club’s recent televised fixture in the Emirates FA Cup.

More than half a million people tuned in to ITV 1 for the game on Sunday, 5th November which saw the Spireites pick up a 1-0 win against Portsmouth, a team which currently sits two divisions above Chesterfield.

There was an average figure of 557,000 viewers for the match, with the audience peaking at 798,000. The coverage also provided many of the town’s businesses which sponsor the club with national exposure.

Commenting on the benefits of such high-profile media coverage, Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield manager, said: “It was wonderful to see the Spireites triumph in front of a national television audience, and the coverage certainly helped to put Chesterfield on the map. 

“The club continues to play a major role in attracting visitors to our town from across the UK, bolstering our independent businesses. 

“We wish Chesterfield FC the best of luck in the next round of the FA Cup, and in their push for promotion back to the Football League, which will further help in raising the profile of our town.”

Spireites Chief Executive, John Croot added: “There is no doubt that there are major benefits for the town as a whole, including the local business community, when the club does well. 

“With attendances averaging around the 7,500-mark this season, there is a feel-good factor around the place and long may that continue!”

The Spireites have another home fixture coming up in the FA Cup on Sunday, 3rd December when they welcome Leyton Orient to the SMH Group Stadium in the 2nd round.

Find out more about visiting Chesterfield here.

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

Chesterfield FA Cup match

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Chesterfield Champions win prestigious Derbyshire Business Awards

Two businesses in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have taken home prestigious accolades at East Midlands Chamber’s Derbyshire Business Awards.

The ceremony recognised East Midlands Chamber members across 13 categories, ranging from Excellence in Innovation and Environmental Impact at organisational level through to individual honours for Entrepreneur of the Year and Apprentice of the Year, in addition to the overall Business of the Year winner.

Chesterfield’s EcoTech Engineers won the award for Outstanding Growth (Sponsored by Amazon), while Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care took home the accolade for Excellence in Innovation (sponsored by Rolls-Royce).

Finalists, chosen by a judging panel of the Chamber’s senior leadership and board of directors, as well as sponsors, discovered their fate during a gala dinner attended by 350 people at Derbyshire County Cricket Club.

Scott Knowles, chief executive of East Midlands Chamber, said: “The winners of our Business Awards are testament to the resilience, ingenuity and hunger for growth within the Derbyshire business community, which never ceases to amaze.

“Despite some of the relentless challenges that have been thrown their way, our region’s businesses continue to find new ways of succeeding and contributing to the communities in which they are based.

“It’s always important to celebrate these achievements and shout about the great things happening right here in Derbyshire. We know it’s a fantastic place to do business and these organisations are shining examples.”

The Derbyshire Business Awards – one of three awards hosted by the Chamber, along with Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire – were hosted by former badminton world champion Gail Emms MBE and featured live entertainment from high-energy party band Central Avenue.

A raffle was held to raise funds for the Chamber Charitable Fund, which comprises president Stuart Dawkins’ three chosen charities for this year – Foundation Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Community Foundation, and Nottinghamshire Community Foundation.

chamber business awards 2023 rose cottage

Winners of Derbyshire Business Awards 2023, in association with headline partner Mazars

Business Improvement Through Technology (sponsored by Purpose Media)

Coach Hire Comparison

Community Impact (sponsored by University of Derby)

Derventio Housing Trust

Outstanding Growth (sponsored by Amazon)

EcoTech Engineers

Excellence in Collaboration (sponsored by ITS Technology Group)

Colleague Box and Blue Light Card

Environmental Impact (sponsored by Futures Housing Group)

HSG UK

Commitment to People Development (sponsored by think3)

Midland Lead

Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by Toyota Manufacturing UK)

Leah Bancroft – Longbow Bars & Restaurants

Entrepreneur of the Year (sponsored by East Midlands Manufacturing Network)

Steven Thai – Ocean King

Education and Business Partnership (sponsored by Concertus)

EMA Training

Excellence in Customer Service (sponsored by Howden)

Reformed IT

Excellence in International Trade (sponsored by East Midlands Freeport)

Bloc Digital

Small Business of the Year (sponsored by University of Derby)

Bloc Digital

Excellence in Innovation (sponsored by Rolls-Royce)

Rose Cottage Doggy Daycare

Business of the Year (sponsored by Mazars)

Midland Lead

EcoTech Engineers and Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Derbyshire Business Awards 2023 winners

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Everything for the perfect Christmas in Chesterfield

Chesterfield is set to provide a magical festive period for families across the area, with a programme of packed events and activities – everything you need for the perfect Christmas.

Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield have once again partnered to launch the annual Christmas in Chesterfield campaign, promoting the exciting festive fun, delightful dining, and unique gifts which can be found in the local area.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, portfolio holder for the town centre and visitor economy, said: “We have a packed entertainment schedule organised in Chesterfield this winter, with many of the events being free or low-cost to come along to.  We understand that the cost of living is still affecting everyone, particularly as the colder months are upon us, so as a council, we want to do all we can to provide you with things to do over the festive season that won’t cost a fortune.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, commented: “Christmas provides the perfect opportunity to spend time with friends and family, and I highly recommend people enjoy those precious moments whilst discovering our town’s superb bars, restaurants, and attractions. Once again, Destination Chesterfield has produced several blogs, articles, and guides for your perfect Christmas, and I would urge everyone to take a look and see what our town has to offer.”

Save the date for these great festive events

A Festival of Christmas Trees – at St Mary’s and All Saints Church (Crooked Spire) from Saturday 18 November to Sunday 3 December.

Visitors are invited to come and see over 100 colourful Christmas trees decorated by local people, community groups and businesses, including WI, scout and guide groups, schools and high street stores and venues. This is a free event, and one not to be missed.

Find out more about the event: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/a-festival-of-christmas-trees/

Chesterfield Pantomime, Aladdin – at The Winding Wheel Theatre from Friday 1 December to Tuesday 2 January.

Join the hero Aladdin on the journey of a lifetime as he soars through the skies in his quest for fortune and true love. A family extravaganza that’s simply Genie-us!

The Chase star Anne Hegerty is to headline the Chesterfield Pantomime this Christmas. Instantly recognisable as The Governess from ITV’s long-running, multi-award-winning teatime TV programme.

See the full list of performance dates at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-pantomime/

Santa’s Grotto at the Assembly Rooms, Market Hall from Sunday 19 November to Sunday 24 December – at various times (see website for more details on dates, times and how to book).

Families are invited to visit Santa in his Chesterfield Grotto and share their Christmas wishes. Each child will be given a wrapped gift. Tickets are on sale now and are priced at £7.50 per child.

There will also be six relaxed sessions for children with learning disabilities or sensory and communication disorders. The flashing lights will be off,  background lighting will be increased and children will have a little longer to meet with Santa.

Find out more about the venues where you can meet Santa in Chesterfield this festive season: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/meet-santa-in-chesterfield/

Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On and Market – Sunday 19 November, from noon to 6pm in Chesterfield town centre.

Join us to turn on the Christmas lights across the town centre. There will be a stage show to entertain the crowds, market stalls to visit and the opportunity to meet this year’s special guest – Paddington™.

Paddington™ will be appearing in Rykneld Square at 12noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.

Get more information about the event at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-christmas-market-and-lights-switch-on/

Revolution House, open Thursday 7 to Wednesday 24 December – from 11am to 3pm (Thursday to Sunday). Revolution House High Street, Old Whittington, S41 9JZ.

There will be a Christmas exhibition titled ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’ which uses whimsical objects from the museum collection to illustrate the famous Christmas song.

You can also see Revolution House decorated for a 17th Century Christmas with displays of greenery, a kissing bough, and colourful flower arrangements provided by our volunteers.

A Christmas Carol Concert will be taking place outside Revolution House on Thursday 7 December at 6.30pm where you will be able to see the Holymoorside Brass Band in the garden for traditional, festive carol singing.

Find out more: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/christmas-at-revolution-house/

Chesterfield Canal – Santa cruises, various dates

The John Varley ll will be sailing from Tapton Lock (S41 7JB) and the Madeline from Hollingwood Hub (S43 2PF). Here you can take to the water this Christmas to meet Santa on Chesterfield Canal. There will be two different boats in operation.

More information on the cruises can be found at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/santa-special-trips-at-chesterfield-canal/

Santa Fun Run at Queen’s Park – Sunday 24 December (Christmas Eve), starting at 10am (1.5km) and 10:30am (5km)

The Chesterfield Santa Fun Run features participants dressed in Santa suits running around the park, with a 1500m race and another one of 5k. Chesterfield Santa Fun Run is Supporting local charities, Ashgate Hospice and CSALS.

More information can be found online: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-santa-fun-run/

Chesterfield Escape Rooms – ‘Elves on the Shelves.’ Available to book between 10 November – 31 December.

The popular Escape Rooms on Soresby Steet has a brand-new Christmas game this year. Can you find all six elves in a game of hide and seek? Prices range from £55 for 2 players to £120 for 6 players.

See more things to do in Chesterfield here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/festive-things-to-do/

Christmas at Barrow Hill Roundhouse – From Saturday 9 December to Sunday 10 December.

Enjoy a family day with a difference at the Barrow Hill Roundhouse this Christmas. Activities include visits from Santa and Christmas Songs. Plus, join in with Christmas Crafts such as making a festive train lantern and funny festive masks.

Find out more: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/christmas-at-barrow-hill-roundhouse/

Everything you need for the perfect Christmas

Gifts galore and delicious food and drink available in Chesterfield’s independent shops

Find perfect gifts for all the family with Christmas shopping opportunities in Chesterfield.

Check out our guides to the best gifts, hampers, food, and drink – all from local businesses: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/christmas-gift-ideas/

Looking for inspiration? Check out our guide to 50 retailers you should know in Chesterfield – containing lots of great ideas for sourcing that special gift. https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/2023/05/50-independent-retailers-in-chesterfield/

Magical Markets in Chesterfield town centre

Chesterfield Borough Council has lots of speciality markets planned from November onwards including the Record Fair, the Artisan Market, and the Vegan Market, as well as the Market Hall, which is open Monday to Saturday 8.30 am to 5 pm where you can pick up a range of foods and gifts for the Christmas festivities.

The general market will also be trading every day from Thursday 14 to Sunday 24 December.

More information can be found at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas/chesterfield-market-at-christmas/

Delicious festive food & drink in Chesterfield’s bars and restaurants

From street food to fine dining, and cocktail bars to cosy cafés – you will find a perfect venue for your festive parties and get-togethers in Chesterfield.

Here is a list of 50 fabulous food and drink businesses you should experience: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/2023/10/50-food-and-drink-businesses-to-try-in-chesterfield/

To find out more and keep up to date with the latest events, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas

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