Things To Do
in Chesterfield
Chesterfield is a historic market town in Derbyshire, England, perched by the River Rother on the edge of the Peak District. It blends grand Victorian architecture with a compact, walkable center built around Market Place and the iconic Crooked Spire of St Mary and All Saints. The town serves as a gateway to nearby countryside, stately homes, and green spaces, making day trips easy for visitors.
From medieval lanes and a lively market to canal walks and family friendly museums, Chesterfield offers a relaxed, accessible base for exploring north Derbyshire.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Crooked Spire of St. Mary and All Saints Church, where you can marvel at its unique architecture. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, soaking in the vibrant local atmosphere. Spend some time wandering through the historic market square, where you can pick up local produce and handmade crafts.
Take a stroll along the Chesterfield Canal, enjoying the scenic views and perhaps stopping for a picnic by the water. Visit the fascinating Chesterfield Museum to learn more about the town's rich history and heritage. Afterward, enjoy lunch at one of the local pubs, indulging in traditional British fare.
As the sun sets, make your way to the bustling Chesterfield town center for an evening of shopping and street entertainment. Try dinner at a renowned local restaurant, sampling regional specialties while soaking in the lively atmosphere. End the night with a relaxing walk around Queen's Park, where you can enjoy the serene environment and twinkling lights.
Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Chatsworth House, where the exquisite gardens and parkland provide an ideal backdrop for a morning stroll. Enjoy breakfast at the estate’s café, taking in the sublime views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the estate’s rich history as you venture through the impressive rooms of the house.
After your exploration, head to Bakewell, a quaint market town nearby, and indulge in some famous Bakewell pudding for lunch. Spend the afternoon wandering along the River Wye and enjoying the peaceful countryside atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. You could also explore local shops and galleries to discover unique souvenirs.
Return to Chesterfield and experience a local theater production at the Pomegranate Theatre, celebrating local talent. Dine at a cozy bistro, where you can enjoy a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for reflecting on the day. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a pub, mingling with locals and enjoying live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Cappuccino or coffee | $3-5 |
| 🏠One bedroom apartment in city centre (monthly) | $750-1,000 |
| 🚆Monthly public transport pass | $60-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town center with historic charm
- Gateway to the Peak District and surrounding stately homes
- Accessible transport links and friendly locals
- Good mix of traditional pubs and modern cafes
- Smaller scale than larger cities, may require day trips for varied nightlife
- Weather can be changeable, so plan for rain even in summer
- Some attractions require a short drive to reach easily
Places to Visit in Chesterfield
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic and instantly recognizable due to its crooked weather vane style spire, a must shoot from Market Place and nearby viewpoints.
Historic market square framed by period architecture and the spire backdrop; great for wide angle city shots and street life.
Tranquil waterway scenes with small lock structures, reflecting stones and seasonal wildlife along a peaceful towpath.
Striking Elizabethan mansion with distinctive architecture and expansive parkland ideal for grand exterior and landscape photography.
Picturesque hilltop manor with sweeping views of the Derbyshire countryside and ornate interiors for architectural photography.
Food in Chesterfield
Chesterfield Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Derbyshire savory pancake often served with fillings such as cheese or bacon, widely available in cafés and pubs.
Must-Try!
A warm ginger sponge cake typical of Derbyshire, enjoyed with tea especially in autumn and winter markets.
A classic tea time treat of scones with clotted cream and jam, commonly served in cafés and tearooms.
A hearty beef or lamb pie cooked in local ale, a staple comforting option in traditional pubs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional weekly market in Market Place offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, baked goods and crafts.
Occasional weekend stalls and seasonal markets around Market Place and the Crooked Spire area with a mix of street food and local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect lines and wait your turn; Brits generally queue politely in shops and on public transport.
Saying please and thank you is standard; a brief chat with staff is common in pubs and cafes.
Keep noise reasonable and avoid intimidating behavior; respect the seating and closure times in late evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Chesterfield
Ensure a smooth experience
In the UK a service charge is sometimes included in larger restaurants. If not, tipping around 10 to 15 percent for good service is common in pubs and eateries.
Card payments including contactless are widely accepted in shops, cafés and pubs. Cash is still useful in smaller venues and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming gardens and markets starting to fill with fresh produce; great for city strolling and canal walks.
Longer days, warm weather, occasional showers; perfect for outdoor dining, canal side walks and photo opportunities in golden hour light.
Crisp air and turning leaves; seasonal markets and harvest menus become prominent in pubs and cafés.
Shorter days and potential frost; cozy pubs, warm drinks, and festive markets around Christmas are common highlights.
Chesterfield at Night
Hiking in Chesterfield
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic Peak District routes offering sweeping valley views and challenging trails within reach from Chesterfield.
A variety of shorter and longer hikes suitable for all levels with scenic farmland and limestone hills.
Extensive grounds and woodlands surrounding a grand estate, perfect for day trips and photography.
Airports
How to reach Chesterfield by plane.
Major regional airport serving domestic and international flights, approximately a 45-60 minute drive from Chesterfield with good road links.
Large international airport offering extensive global connections, around a 60-90 minute drive depending on traffic.
Smaller regional airport with European connections, roughly a 1.5 to 2 hour drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local families with easy access to parks, schools, and family friendly attractions.
Residents who commute to nearby cities for work or study, supported by local colleges and public transport.
Long standing communities with a focus on local heritage and traditional social spaces.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local football culture with Chesterfield FC and nearby clubs providing matches and community events.
County level cricket nearby thrives in Derbyshire with domestic matches accessible regionally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chesterfield.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafés offer meat free options such as veggie pies, oatcake fillings, salads and vegetarian mains. It is easy to ask for meat free dishes at most places and many will accommodate simple requests.