Markets are a central part of Chesterfield life and have been held in the town centre since at least 1165, when the Sheriff of Derbyshire recorded an amount of £1 2s 7d received from the market. The town's Market Charter was granted in 1204 and today the market is one of the biggest in the country, hosting annual events that have guaranteed it a place at the heart of Chesterfield.
At Chesterfield Museum and Art Gallery you can discover the town's history from as far back as Roman times, through the industrial revolution and the arrival of the railways right up to the present day. Town Trails are available from the Tourist Information Centre and have information on some of the less well-known but equally interesting places to visit, such as Secker's House and No. 2 St Mary's Gate.
Chesterfield's most famous landmark is without doubt the iconic crooked spire, which stands on the town skyline like a question mark – how did it become twisted? Some claim it was the work of the Devil, some say it was due to a lightning strike and some even blamed the bell ringing!
The most popular story is that the spire itself was so amazed to hear that a virgin was being married in the church that it twisted round to try and see this wonder for itself... it is said that should the same thing ever happen again, the spire will straighten up again! The truth probably has more to do with the weight of the 32 tons of lead tiles that cover the wooden spire, which was constructed using unseasoned timber – you can find out more inside the church, at the museum or at the Tourist Information Centre.
Chesterfield also has plenty to offer in entertainment and outdoor activity, with a theatre, concert and exhibition centre and a 10 screen cinema, as well as a sports centre with three swimming pools, squash courts and gym. Queen's Park has a boating lake, miniature train and what is considered to be one of the most attractive cricket grounds in the country, all close to the town centre.
Market Days
Markets are held every Monday, Friday and Saturday, with a flea market every Thursday and a farmers' market on the second Thursday and last Sunday of every month.
An audio tour of the town is available free of charge (subject to a deposit) from Chesterfield Tourist Information Centre – alternatively download the audio tour to play on your own iPod or mp3 player.
Further Information
Chesterfield Tourist Information Centre | Chesterfield Market
Chesterfield Museum & Art Gallery | Chesterfield Crooked Spire
Peak District's Historic Border Country Walking Festival
