Whilst social distancing measures are still in place, there are still things you can do in and around Chesterfield to keep you entertained. This year, we’re finding joy in the simple things and what better place to find them than on your doorstep?
While festivals and events may be off, there’s still plenty to do in Chesterfield to keep all the family entertained. Here are our top 10 things to do in Chesterfield this summer.
1. Picnic in Queens Park
A firm Chesterfield favourite and with big open spaces and play areas, Queen’s Park is a great place to relax with family. Play areas are now open again with visitors asked to follow hand-washing recommendations.
Chesterfield Council’s recommendations for using parks can be found on its Twitter feed here
2. Cycle the Chesterfield Canal
You can join the canal cycle path on the doorstep of Chesterfield Waterside. Simply head to Brimington Road and join the towpath at Bridge no 1. Full directions from Chesterfield town centre to the cycle path can be found here. Once you’re on the cycle path, head out towards Staveley on the Trans-Pennine Trail. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife along the way. You can find more information about routes and nearby activities here
3. Choose a takeaway from your favourite local coffee shops
Treat yourself and support local businesses in Chesterfield. Order a sharing platter to enjoy out and about from Bottle and Thyme, or a famous grilled cheese toastie from Society. Why not head to Queen’s Park and enjoy your takeaway in green surroundings?
For more great Chesterfield cafes, take a look here.
4. Bolsover Castle – complete their Summer Explorer Quest
Bolsover Castle, which is owned by English Heritage, has released an activity booklet for the family with games to play and things to look out for during your visit. Book in advance and enjoy more space to roam with reduced visitor numbers for your safety.
Get your tickets here.
5. Derbyshire Pony Trekking
If you’ve always wanted to try, give it a go this summer! Slow woodland treks or fast-paced gallops, there’s something for everyone. Just a 20-minute drive from Chesterfield and there are also train stations nearby.
For more information take a look at their website here.
6. Independent shops on Chatsworth Road
Chesterfield is brimming with independent shops, a large number of which are located on Chatsworth Road. Lose an afternoon browsing in ladies’ clothing boutiques, such as Dotique and Blanc. You’ll find pieces you won’t find on the high-street at Oliholpho, and contemporary clothing at newly opened Dava boutique.
When you’re all tired out, stop off at Meringue Bakery for one of their delicious meringues, or Northern Tea Merchants for some top quality tea to take home. Take a look at their ideas for summer drinks online to try at home.
7. Find the films you missed at the Pomegranate Theatre
The beautiful Victorian Pomegranate Theatre opened its doors again on the 24 July, offering a big screen cinema experience in a social distanced environment. Screening both family favourites and some of the latest films, you can pre-order tickets and discounted food and drinks online. Whether it’s Bohemian Rhapsody, Emma, or the Trolls World Tour, let’s get back to the big screen!
Check out the Pomegranate Theatre website to find out what’s on here.
8. Get involved virtually – with Chesterfield’s Medieval Fun Day
Chesterfield’s hugely popular annual Medieval Fun Day returns virtually this year. On Tuesday 28 July can follow the Medieval Fun Day on Chesterfield Museum’s Facebook page which will be sharing talks and videos available throughout the day.
9. Trek the Art Trail
Did you know that Chesterfield has an Art Trail? The Chesterfield Art Trail map shows where Percent for Art Scheme artworks can be found around Chesterfield, like Growth on Hornsbridge Island, The Gingerbread Man in Newbold and, of course, Curved Reclining Form (Rosewall) in Chesterfield which will eventually be sited at Basin Square at Chesterfield Waterside. Dr Robert Burstow (an art historian at the University of Derby) has written detailed descriptions of most of the artworks on the Art Trail.
10. Rummage in the Flea Market
Chesterfield’s popular open air Flea Market is back up and running. Located in the town centre, the market takes place every Thursday and features an eclectic mix of bric-a-brac, vintage clothes, jewellery and crafts. Who knows, you could find yourself a priceless antique in disguise – after all, one man’s junk is another man’s treasure!
Keep up-to-date with what’s happening in Chesterfield here.