Rachel’s guidebook
Sightseeing
Stunning reservoir walk only a 10 minute drive from the house, surrounded by forest paths, where you might spot a Tawny Owl, Barn Owl at dusk, a woodpecker when quiet or even a Kingfisher by any of the streams that flow around the reservoirs
16 locals recommend
Linacre Reservoirs
Woodnook LaneStunning reservoir walk only a 10 minute drive from the house, surrounded by forest paths, where you might spot a Tawny Owl, Barn Owl at dusk, a woodpecker when quiet or even a Kingfisher by any of the streams that flow around the reservoirs
Unique wonky spire in the heart of the town. It is a beautiful church inside.
The Church of St Mary and All Saints, also the Crooked Spire Church, is Chesterfield’s big landmark, famed for its twisting and leaning spire.
Even the local football team, Chesterfield FC, is nicknamed the Spirites.
That spire dates to 1362, and while the twist is intentional, and was common in Europe at the time, its tilt was caused by centuries and expansion and contraction in the lead tiles coating the structure.
Of course, there are local legends explaining the twist and the lean, one being that a local virgin married in the church, and the building was so surprised that it span around to see the bride.
On Fridays and Saturdays you can take a 45-minute tour of the tower, taking you part way up to take in the townscape and Derbyshire countryside.
16 locals recommend
Chesterfield Parish Church
Church WayUnique wonky spire in the heart of the town. It is a beautiful church inside.
The Church of St Mary and All Saints, also the Crooked Spire Church, is Chesterfield’s big landmark, famed for its twisting and leaning spire.
Even the local football team, Chesterfield FC, is nicknamed the Spirites.
That spire dates to 1362, and while the twist is intentional, and was common in Europe at the time, its tilt was caused by centuries and expansion and contraction in the lead tiles coating the structure.
Of course, there are local legends explaining the twist and the lean, one being that a local virgin married in the church, and the building was so surprised that it span around to see the bride.
On Fridays and Saturdays you can take a 45-minute tour of the tower, taking you part way up to take in the townscape and Derbyshire countryside.
You can get to Stavely, or Hollingsbrook easily by car or bus from the house, and either walk some of the canal or for avid walkers, you could track all the way to Rotherham!
Chesterfield Canal
You can get to Stavely, or Hollingsbrook easily by car or bus from the house, and either walk some of the canal or for avid walkers, you could track all the way to Rotherham!
Food scene
Lovely independent pizzeria about 10-12 minute walk from the house, near to a great Yoga Studio called Holy Cow Yoga
Pizza Pi
26-28 Corporation StreetLovely independent pizzeria about 10-12 minute walk from the house, near to a great Yoga Studio called Holy Cow Yoga
Amazing authentic Italian cuisine run by an entirely Italian crew - Tony will play you his guitar if you ask nicely!
Lombardi's Ristorante Italiano
2 Sheffield RdAmazing authentic Italian cuisine run by an entirely Italian crew - Tony will play you his guitar if you ask nicely!
Fantastic North Indian cuisine just down the road from the house, only 2 minute walk!
West Bars Tandoori
41-43 W BarsFantastic North Indian cuisine just down the road from the house, only 2 minute walk!
Best coffee in town, lovely owner, tiny cafe where you can work quietly upstairs, socialise downstairs, ales on tap, amazing artisanal snacks
Society Coffee Shop & Bar
8 Stephenson PlBest coffee in town, lovely owner, tiny cafe where you can work quietly upstairs, socialise downstairs, ales on tap, amazing artisanal snacks
City advice
Useful phrases
Ey up Duck
The local term of endearment in Chesterfield is 'Duck' or 'Ducky'. You'll hear this a lot if you speak to locals!