visiting chesterfield

Have your say on Chesterfield’s Visitor Economy Strategy

Chesterfield residents and businesses can have their say on a new strategy to grow Chesterfield’s visitor economy.

The Chesterfield Visitor Economy Strategy sets out the role of Chesterfield Borough Council in accelerating the growth of the visitor economy over the next five years. It aims to attract more visitors by making Chesterfield a great place to be – a place that people enjoy visiting and spending time in. More visitors will generate additional visitor spend, supporting existing employment and creating new jobs in the local economy.

People can have their say on this strategy until Wednesday 8 December and their views will help develop the final strategy.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This strategy sets out the core elements of our visitor offer and the exciting new opportunities we can build on, such as the successful £20m bid to transform Stephenson Memorial Hall and enhance public realm in the town centre, to encourage more people to come to Chesterfield. Not only do we want to attract more day visitors, but we also believe that Chesterfield makes a great base where people can stay to explore Derbyshire and the Peak District.”

“Your feedback will help ensure that this strategy is the right approach to marketing Chesterfield and encouraging more people to visit.”

The strategy is underpinned by a focus on quality place making, seeking to reinforce a distinctive Chesterfield identity that differentiates us from other visitor destinations.

It also identifies other priorities to attract visitors, which include:

  • Enhancing the ‘Crooked Spire’ experience to build a stronger unique selling point
  • The development of PEAK Resort as a major driver of visitors
  • Speciality markets, festivals, and events to capitalise on investment in the town centre
  • Developing our cultural and heritage offer including work to enhance Stephenson Memorial Hall and the development of an interpretation plan to bring our heritage stories to life
  • Increasing hotel capacity to provide space for both leisure and business visitors
  • A new ‘inspired’ marketing approach to raise awareness of the area as a place to visit.

The online consultation is open until Wednesday 8 December and people can find out more and submit their feedback by visiting: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/visitor-economy-strategy-consultation

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Plans to revitalise Staveley’s high street to be considered by Chesterfield Borough Council

Draft plans to revitalise Staveley town centre as part of the wider regeneration of the area are being considered by Chesterfield Borough Council.

The Staveley Town Centre Draft Vision Master Plan is to go before the council’s Cabinet on 2 November and, if approved, will be subject to a six-week public consultation starting on 8 November.

The proposals set out a vision for the future development of Staveley’s town centre, including improvements to the look, feel and flow of Market Square and High Street, and are designed to harness the opportunities presented by wider investment in the town.

The draft plan has been brought forward as part of an ambitious regeneration package being delivered under the Staveley Town Deal programme, which has created a ‘golden opportunity’ to breathe new life into the former mining town for generations to come.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Staveley town centre is a place with rich heritage and character – and a lot of untapped potential to make it the best it can be for the benefit of Staveley’s growing community.

“Taken together with the significant investment and regeneration which is planned for across this area, we have a golden opportunity to transform Staveley for generations to come.

“Currently, like town centres up and down the country – particularly those which are relatively small – Staveley is being hit by the rise of online shopping and changing customer habits, as well as the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There is also much more that could be done to better connect some of the area’s key sites and buildings, to make the town centre a real retail, leisure and community hub.

“Our draft vision master plan sets out a framework in which some key improvements can be brought forward and, if approved by Cabinet, we will continue to work closely with the community.

“Staveley’s businesses are key to the future success of the town centre, and we are committed to working with them to adapt and shape these draft plans.”

The draft vision master plan has been put together following initial consultation with Staveley Town Council, local business representatives and key partners – with a view to gathering more detailed feedback as part of the six-week consultation period.

The purpose of the consultation is to get public and business feedback on the draft proposals, so they can then be adjusted and finalised.

Just over £4.85m has been earmarked for town centre improvements as part of the Staveley Town Deal programme – with funding subject to final approval by Government early next year.

Key proposals include:

  • Regenerating Market Square, including proposals for a new building called ‘The Market House’ which would create a commercial and community hub, with potential to host large indoor and outdoor and outdoor events
  • Revitalising High Street, including plans to upgrade and improve landscaping, street furniture and cycle parking
  • Unlocking the development potential of underused or derelict sites which could be used to support a more vibrant evening economy, family facilities and leisure opportunities
  • Installing town centre Wi-Fi, to create a more digitally connected town centre for the benefit of businesses and shoppers
  • Improving signage, and adding new walkways which will link the canal with Staveley Hall and local shops / services – helping people to explore further and stay longer

The updated draft master plan is designed to replace a previous version of the document which was drawn up in 2009 and now – due to changes in within the borough, as well as the national economic context – must be reviewed to ensure it provides a relevant and robust framework for the development of the town centre.

Councillor Sarvent added: “This is a hugely exciting time for Staveley. Together with our partners, our aim is to deliver significant investment and improvements across key aspects of the town in support of our vision to create a legacy for the future – a place where people can start, stay and grow.”

If approved, the draft vision master plan proposals will be subject to a consultation period running from 8 November to 12 December.

This will be via a virtual exhibition, supported by a staffed exhibition at The Healthy Living Centre in Staveley.

 

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Rediscover everything that’s great about Chesterfield

Residents in Chesterfield are encouraged to get together this half-term and rediscover everything that’s great about the borough.

Whether that be revisiting an old favourite or discovering something new, residents are being urged to seek out shops, cafes, bars and restaurants that are unique to the borough – and the October half-term break is the perfect chance for the whole family to get together and rediscover what’s great about Chesterfield.

As well as supporting local businesses, there’s also plenty to keep the whole family entertained this half-term, including the return of the popular 1940’s market on Thursday 28 October.

Families can also enjoy a trip to Chesterfield Museum where they will have a final chance to check out the popular ‘Put That Light Out’ Exhibition and discover what life in Chesterfield was like during World War Two. There’s also a chance to explore the stories, experiences and contributions of the African and Caribbean Community in Chesterfield in the latest exhibition, ‘Chesterfield Black Stories’ which is presented in partnership with ACCA.

More information on events during half-term can be found at www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/half-term-in-chesterfield.

The ‘Love Chesterfield’ campaign was launched earlier this year by Chesterfield Borough Council, in partnership with Destination Chesterfield to support the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors as national restrictions eased, to encourage residents to celebrate Chesterfield’s local businesses.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “There’s lots to love here in Chesterfield and we love shining the spotlight on our local businesses. Since the launch of our Love Chesterfield campaign earlier this year, and as restrictions eased, we’ve already seen a positive return of customers to the borough’s high streets and we’re urging everyone to continue shopping locally and safely.

“The past 18 months have been incredibly difficult for our local businesses so it’s important that we continue to support them as much as we can.

“In the town centre alone, there are around 200 independent retailers where you’ll find a range of unique, quirky and exciting gifts and products that you simply wouldn’t find anywhere else. Add to these to the numerous markets that the town centre supports and there really is something for everyone to discover.

“And not forgetting the variety of cafes, bars and restaurants that are available, Chesterfield has a quiet food revolution happening so you’ll be spoilt for choice when dining out in the borough.”

More information on dining out in Chesterfield can be found at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfield/

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield said: “It’s a very exciting time for the town in its recovery from the pandemic. The Love Chesterfield campaign is a great opportunity for people to rediscover the town centre and all that it has to offer.

“With lockdown restrictions lifted and Christmas only weeks away there has never been a better time to get out and about and support local businesses in their recovery. From places to eat and drink to major retailers and quirky independents shops and market stalls, there is a multitude of reasons for people to Love Chesterfield as a place to shop and socialise.”

As part of the Love Chesterfield campaign, businesses are being supported to boost their profile. Independent shops, bars and eateries are among the businesses encouraged to take advantage of a new #LoveChesterfield support pack, featuring a range of free marketing materials which they can use to collectively celebrate the unique products and experiences available in the borough.

The pack includes a range of customisable images and resources for businesses to use on their social media, posters and window vinyl designs – all of which can be downloaded for free at www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfield/business-support-pack.

The Love Chesterfield awards took place on Wednesday 20 October. The awards celebrate the town’s favourite food, drink and retail businesses, and also recognise outstanding local entrepreneurs, regeneration work, business contribution to the local community, apprenticeships and sustainability. More information including details of the winners can be found at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/.

 

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Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On promises fun for the whole family

Residents and visitors can get into the festive spirit as Chesterfield’s annual Christmas Lights Switch On returns for 2021.

There will be a variety of entertainers performing throughout the day and a market that will allow shoppers to grab a Christmas bargain. The event takes place on Sunday 21 November from 12 noon to early evening, with the switch on happening at 4.45pm.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The Christmas Lights Switch On is one of our most popular events attracting thousands of people each year and for many families it is a Christmas tradition.

“We’ve got lots planned this year to keep the whole family entertained throughout the day. I am delighted that it could return this year, and I hope lots of people will come along and have a great day out whilst shopping local and supporting local businesses.”

The stage show will be held in New Square and there will be a variety of different performers including choirs, dancing robots and children’s characters.

A market will run alongside this event in the Market Square and the Market Hall will be open so shoppers can start picking up presents from local businesses.

Market stalls are available to book for this event, these can be booked for £15 by visiting:  www.chesterfield.gov.uk/markettrading

The Christmas Lights Switch On is a key element of the Christmas in Chesterfield campaign which aims to encourage people to visit Chesterfield town centre and support local businesses this Christmas.

Other activities planned include the return of the Amazing Magical Santa House and Elf Trail which were very popular last year. A series of walkabout entertainers including stilt walkers, carol singers and tap-dancing turkeys. The Crooked Spire will also be hosting its Christmas Tree Festival and Beauty and the Beast pantomime will be at the Pomegranate Theatre.

More details on the entertainment schedule will be released closer to the event. Find out more at:http://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-christmas-market-and-lights-switch-on/

 

Chesterfield Christmas Market and Lights Switch on

Posted in Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

Chesterfield celebrates as parks and green spaces win Green Flag Award

In a record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award, as the scheme marks its Silver Jubilee, Chesterfield is celebrating retaining five awards.

Chesterfield Borough Council is raising a Green Flag Award for the 15th time at Queen’s Park, Holmebrook Valley Country Park, Poolsbrook Country Park, Eastwood Park and the gardens at Chesterfield and District Crematorium.

The award is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.

After 18 months that have seen our parks and green spaces play a vital role for people through lockdowns as a place to relax, exercise and meet friends and family safely, the news that Chesterfield has achieved these Green Flag Awards is testament to the hard work and dedication of the team that make the green space a great space that everyone can enjoy.

Councillor Jill Mannion-Brunt, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “It’s fantastic that we have maintained our Green Flag Awards in these parks and is a real testament to the hard work our teams do to maintain these spaces. Green spaces are incredibly important for our communities, they not only serve as place to spend time with friends and family they can also support both physical and mental health. I hope that we can continue to provide high quality green spaces for all our residents to enjoy.”

Green Flag Award Scheme Manager Paul Todd said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved in making these sites worthy of a Green Flag Award.

“To meet the requirements demanded by the scheme is testament to the hard work of the staff and volunteers who do so much to ensure that Chesterfield has high standards of horticulture, safety and environmental management and is a place that supports people to live healthy lives.”

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of green spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.

A full list of Green Flag Award-winning parks and green spaces is available here

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

See the sparks fly at annual fireworks event

Chesterfield is set to be lit up as Chesterfield Borough Council’s fireworks extravaganza returns.

The council have partnered with Chesterfield Football Club to deliver the entertainment at this year’s fireworks extravaganza.

The event takes place at Stand Road Park on Friday 5 November, the gates will open at 4.30pm and close at 9pm.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Our fireworks event is one of the most popular in the calendar with thousands of people coming along each year.

“It’s fantastic to be partnering with the football club to deliver this year’s event and I’m sure they will make it a great evening for everyone. Please wrap up warm, wear suitable footwear and come along to join in the fun.”

Bridget Ball, marketing manager at Chesterfield FC, said: “We are delighted to have been given the opportunity to organise and host this event, which is very popular.

“As a football club owned by a Community Trust, we are always looking at ways of engaging with the local community and this is an ideal opportunity to do that.”

The fireworks display will begin at the family-friendly time of 7pm and there will also be a selection of fairground rides and food vendors. There will be live entertainment for crowds to enjoy both before and after the fireworks.

Entry to the event is £2 per person – free for children under five. Visitors are asked to have the exact money ready as change cannot be given.

Parking for the event will be available at Chesterfield FC’s Technique Stadium for a donation of £3 per car, which will help cover the cost of stewards with any excess being given to charity.

There is also a bus stop on Sheffield Road which is less than a two-minute walk from the park, find more details about bus services that stop here on the Stagecoach website.

Visitors are reminded that they should not attend this event if they are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms, including a high temperature, a new or continuous cough or a loss of their sense of smell or taste. There will also be plenty of space at Stand Road to ensure visitors can maintain social distancing.

The fireworks extravaganza is one of a series of events organised by Chesterfield Borough Council.

More information about entertainment and safety at the event will be released soon.

Chesterfield Football Club and Chesterfield Borough Council  support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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

New games quarter to open in Chesterfield town centre

A brand-new leisure offering is set to open in Chesterfield, bringing a variety of new activities for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Chesterfield Games quarter is an exciting new development in Soresby Street in the Town Centre. The attraction is a collaboration of four Leisure and Gaming businesses, set to offer a variety of gaming genres all in one location.

Two new exciting businesses have chosen to move to the location due to the popularity of Chesterfield Escape Rooms since its opening earlier this year and Geeks Headquarters, which has grown in popularity for players of trading card games, board games, roleplaying games and miniature games.

Chesterfield VR – A Virtual Reality gaming centre and Chesterfield Games Zone (GMZN), a PC and gaming arcade will officially open their doors in November 2021, bringing a variety of fun activities for people of all ages.

Chesterfield Escape Rooms has also confirmed that due to an amazing response from the public, the attraction is set to expand further.

Games masters at the popular venue are in the process of creating an additional game in time for Christmas called “Santa’s Stuck up the Chimney,” with a fifth game set to launch in February 2022.

The Escape Rooms already offers three games for visitors, known as ‘The Governor,’ ‘Rob The Bank’ and ‘The Crazy Cat Lady.’

Nick Hogan, owner of Chesterfield Escape Rooms stated: “It’s a huge coup for the town to attract two new fledgling businesses to invest in the town centre and create something very unique, especially as all four owners live in the local area.

“We cant wait to get this opportunity, which shall serve the needs of all age groups, off the ground in late November.”

Chesterfield Escape Rooms supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

Popular 1940s market set to return in Chesterfield

Residents and visitors to Chesterfield can enjoy themselves during half term as the annual 1940s market returns for 2021.

Taking place on Thursday 28 October between 10am and 4pm, visitors can enjoy 40s music, entertainment, exhibits and meet the stall holders in period dress.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “The 1940s Market is one of the most popular events in our calendar and I’m delighted that we’ve managed to bring it back this year.

“I hope lots of people will come along and support our local businesses and traders, there will be lots to see and it will be fun for all ages.”

Kalamazoo dance band will make their return to Chesterfield and will be performing throughout the day in New Square.

A replica Spitfire will be on display outside the Visitor Information Centre and visitors can learn more about the role of these planes in World War Two.

There will also be a display of vintage vehicles including cars, military vehicles, and a classic fire engine.

The weekly flea market will take place in the market place with traders in 1940s costume. There will be a competition for the best dressed trader and visitors are encouraged to get into the 40s spirit by dressing in period costumes.

Chesterfield Museum will also be open as usual from 10am to 4pm where visitors can learn more about the town’s history, including a final chance to visit the Put That Light Out exhibition, which finishes on 30 October.

The exhibition looks at life in Chesterfield during World War Two, featuring displays and objects that will help visitors learn more about rationing, holidays at home, the Women’s Voluntary Service and the Home Guard. Entry to the Museum is free but donations are welcome.

More activities and entertainers are still being confirmed, find out more about the event by visiting: www.visitchesterfield.info/40s

The 1940s Market is a free event that aims to bring more visitors and shoppers to the town centre to support local businesses and market traders.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , ,

Dazzling projections to ‘shine a light’ on iconic Derbyshire landmarks

Spectacular large-scale projections will light up two Derbyshire landmarks in a new night-time attraction celebrating the county’s rich heritage this autumn.

Visitors will be able to see Derbyshire’s heritage and history of innovation brought to life in ‘Shine A Light’ – an extravaganza of light and sound taking place on four dates in October against the impressive backdrops of Chatsworth House and Cromford Mills.

Delivered by internationally-renowned Derbyshire-born video projection artists Illuminos, Shine A Light brings together awe-inspiring illuminations and projections in a visually stunning display inspired by Voices From The Peak – a celebration of the county in sound created by local poet and performer Mark Gwynne Jones to celebrate the Peak District National Park’s 70th birthday earlier this year.

Providing fun and entertainment for the whole family, the one-of-a-kind experiences have been commissioned by Derbyshire County Council to celebrate Derbyshire’s rich history and heritage while boosting the visitor economy in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Each outdoor event is a fusion of visuals, music and sound culminating in a large-scale moving animation projected onto the building every 20 minutes throughout each evening at:

  • Chatsworth, the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, on Friday 22 October and Saturday 23 October from 6.30pm.
  • Cromford Mills, home of Sir Richard Arkwright’s first mill complex, in the UNESCO Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, on Thursday 28 October and Friday 29 October from 6.30pm.

Visitors to the Chatsworth experience will be greeted by atmospheric lighting which will illuminate the route to the South Lawn, passing some of the most impressive features in the Chatsworth Garden. A large-scale moving animation will be projected onto the spectacular South Front of Chatsworth House and there will be a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks and treats available.

At Cromford Mills, visitors will have the unique opportunity to see the historic buildings, watercourse and mill yard beautifully illuminated by night. Two buildings will be used as the backdrop to the animation in the Grade I listed mill complex, which is currently celebrating its 250th anniversary, and food and drink will be available in the mill yard and at the canal-side setting of Wheatcroft’s Wharf.

Tickets are £8 for adults and £6 per child (aged 4-16 inclusive, free for 3 and under).

For more details and to book tickets, please visit www.visitpeakdistrict.com/shine-a-light.

Derbyshire County Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Leadership, Culture, Tourism and Climate Change Councillor Barry Lewis said: “We’re proud to be able to help support these unique experiences which will provide excellent entertainment for tourists and residents alike.

“We’ve brought together internationally-known projection artists and a renowned local poet and storyteller to create these fascinating events which are designed for people of all ages to enjoy.

“It is vital we support the local visitor economy to recover following coronavirus pandemic and we hope in future years to extend ‘Shine A Light’ to more venues across our county.”

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “Derbyshire is fortunate to have some of the world’s most significant heritage attractions and ‘Shine A Light’ offers the fantastic opportunity to see history brought to life in spectacular style against the backdrops of Chatsworth and Cromford Mills.

“Better still, these night-time displays offer the perfect excuse to enjoy all the Peak District & Derbyshire has to offer in autumn, from cosy places to stay to unique places to visit and great local food and drink, supporting the recovery of local businesses in the process. These events will be very popular, and we urge everyone to get their tickets as soon as possible!”

Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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

Canal Walking Festival ready to set off this weekend

The biggest walking festival based on a single canal in the country is all set and ready to start on Saturday 11th September. The Chesterfield Canal Walking Festival will comprise of 41 walks in all, with the last one on Sunday 19th September.

The walks cover the whole of the canal’s 46 miles from Chesterfield to West Stockwith on the River Trent. They vary from a one mile stroll to a full twenty miles. Much of the scenery is beautiful, none more so than the Giant’s Staircase of 22 locks in just over a mile between Kiveton and Shireoaks that features in several of the walks.

The festival is organised by the Chesterfield Canal Trust, whose Walks Officer, David Blackburn, said: “After last year’s cancellation, we are delighted to be back. The canal is an absolute delight at any time of year, but early Autumn possibly sees it at its best.”

There are special interest walks, such as Wildlife, History, Architecture, Archaeology and Restoration. There are opportunities to explore some of the attractive towns and villages in North Nottinghamshire or you can combine a walk with a cruise on one of the Trust’s trip boats. There is even the opportunity to learn about Geocaching, whilst enjoying the delights of the canal.

New this year is the opportunity to earn sponsorship money for your favourite cause by towing the Trust’s replica Cuckoo boat. There is even a cycle ride with a difference. Waterway and railway enthusiasts will relish the opportunity of a canal and river walk finishing up at Britain’s last surviving working Railway Roundhouse at Barrow Hill.

Pride of place goes to the 20 mile Restoration Walk from Chesterfield to Worksop. This covers the 12 miles of canal that have been restored since 1989 and the 8 miles that are yet to be re-awakened.

All the walks are free except for those combined with a boat. They must be booked in advance, either online via the Trust’s website – search for Chesterfield Canal Trust – or by ringing 01246 477569. A brochure with full details is available at various places along the canal, including Hollingwood Hub and local Tourist Information Centres. It is also available online. Some walks are already full, so it is advisable to book now to avoid disappointment.

Obviously all the walks will be subject to the latest Covid advice, so participants should come prepared with a face covering, even if it will not actually be required.

The Chesterfield Canal Trust wishes to thank all the walk leaders, the many organisations which have helped and the festival’s sponsors: the Canal & River Trust, Avant Homes, Derbyshire County Council Action Grants and Eckington, Misterton and West Stockwith Parish Councils.

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

Chesterfield Canal Trust supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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

Residents offered the chance to go ‘behind the scenes’ at iconic Chesterfield buildings

Residents and visitors in Chesterfield will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes at a some of the town’s iconic buildings this September, as part of the Heritage Open Days event taking place across the country.

Heritage Open Days take place every September and see organisations and volunteers across the country organise events to celebrate the nation’s history and culture.

To celebrate the initiative this year, Chesterfield Borough Council is opening the doors to a number of its venues for people to explore.

Mayor’s parlour and council chamber tours

Residents will have the opportunity to visit the mayor’s parlour and council chamber where the Chesterfield Mayor and Consort – Councillor Glenys Falconer and Councillor Keith Falconer – will be on hand to talk about their roles at the council, including chairing full council meetings and the duties they carry out on a weekly basis.

Two tours will take place at 11am on both Thursday 16 September and Friday 17 September and will take around an hour and a half to complete. People can register to attend one of the tours by contacting Leanne Mowbray, member and civic support officer, on 01246 345239, or by email at: Mayors.Office@chesterfield.gov.uk.  Places are limited, so booking is essential.

Revolution House

Revolution House will also be re-opening its doors and welcoming visitors back for the first time since December 2019 for two Heritage Open Days. Visitors can come along between 11am and 3pm on Sunday 12 and Sunday 19 September to find out more about the history of the House. The House takes its name from the Revolution of 1688 when three local noblemen met to begin planning their part in events which led to the overthrow of King James II in favour of William and Mary of Orange.

Entry to the House is free, but donations are welcome.

Chesterfield Museum stores

There will also be an opportunity to go behind the scenes and explore one of Chesterfield Museum’s offsite stores. On Saturday 11 September visitors will have the chance to discover some of the larger items collected by the museum that would be difficult to display in the museum itself. The tour will also explore how the museum looks after the town’s collection so the objects can be enjoyed by generations to come.

The tour will take place at Unit 1, Calow Brook Drive, Off Calow Lane, Hasland, Chesterfield, S41 0DR. Booking is not required and visitors just need to arrive by 11am to join the tour.

For those unable to attend the behind-the-scenes events, the team at Chesterfield Museum will be posting a video online which explores fascinating parts of history. Working with History’s Maid, the latest video which will be shared is ‘History of Tea’ – from Catherine of Braganaza to the two world wars, tea has been a British necessity. For more information or to view the video visit the Chesterfield Museum Facebook page or www.chesterfield.gov.uk.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Heritage Open Days provide an exciting and interesting way to learn more about key venues, the history and how they operate on a day-to-day basis so we are really pleased to be opening the doors to some of our key venues so people can explore.

“We hope that plenty of residents and visitors will take the opportunity to take a look behind the scenes and find out more about the history of our borough.”

For more information on the Heritage Open Days, visit www.visitchesterfield.info/whats-on

Posted in About Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

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