A record store in Chesterfield has announced an exciting expansion, which includes a new independent radio station for local DJs to follow their passion for music.
Vanishing Point Records, based in Theatre Yard in the town centre, has become a popular spot for music lovers selling pre-loved vinyl records across many genres.
The businesses, which began in 2017 had previously expanded in 2019. However in 2023, the shop took up a neighbouring unit which enabled further growth.
Acquiring the extra space has given Vanishing Point Records the opportunity to showcase its huge 12″ single collection, which is thought to be one of the biggest in the East Midlands with a collection of around 5000. On top of this, the store has also been able to build a new radio studio.
The studio is now a home for Radio Free Matlock, which is a station that Vanishing Point Owner, Corey Lavender was already heavily involved in prior to the store’s expansion.
Corey takes up the story, commenting: “On our second ever day of trading I met a guy who ran an ultra local radio station in Matlock, named “Radio Free Smedley Street”. From that day onwards I got involved with the station, firstly as a listener and then when that guy left the station, I along with a few of the other DJs decided to take over the running of it.
“We renamed it Radio Free Matlock (RFM for short) and we started recruiting DJs wherever we could find them. I met loads of our DJs when they came into the store for a browse. They left with or without a vinyl record but also a radio show!
“So, when I took on the extra unit in Theatre Yard It was always my intention that part of it would be devoted to some ‘radio’ space. Building this was daunting anyway, I had zero experience in building radio studios, but we were doing it on zero budget, just with stuff we had in our various home studios.
“Luckily I could call on my RFM colleagues Ash Bird and Lucie De Lacy to help! By September 2023 we had a set up in the studio that we liked. We had two vinyl decks for proper DJs to come and play a set, a mixing desk with 4 mics hooked up, a CD player and the ability to input from a laptop. All held together with a old (ish) Mac kindly donated by Lucie.”
“In October our debut ‘LIVE’ radio show was broadcast, it was called The Monthly Jam hosted by Ash and Lucie and we had a special guest Emzae, a pop artist from Derby who came in for a chat and to sign copies of her latest album.
“Since then we have done weekly live radio shows on Saturday afternoons from 12 till 2pm with a rotation of shows and DJs, and they are brilliant. People come in to watch the shows, to listen to the shows and customers quite often get involved too, and every single one has been brilliant with the vibe on Saturdays being fantastic.”
Corey added that the success of the new radio station has also led to further success for Vanishing Point Records in terms of sales. All five of its best ever trading months have come since the expansion and the studio addition.
Speaking of his love for owning a business in Chesterfield, he added: “Having grown up in Chesterfield, and loving the town (and the football club) It is a dream to be able to do my favorite thing in my favorite place. It’s also a privilege to have so many fellow indie traders in town too, who are on hand to help out with advice and encouragement.
“We really do have a great opportunity to make ourselves successful in this new era of destination shopping. The internet has changed everything but we have loads of unique shops, cafes and bars who might not be able to spend a ton on advertising to let you know they’re there like the old major chains can. But if anyone hasn’t been to town for a while, maybe go and you might just find your new favorite place.”
Chesterfield Escape Rooms has retained its place in the top 10 escape room attractions across the country, according to TripAdvisor.
The business, which boasts several exciting escape games for people of all ages, has now been in the top 10 list for two years running, making it stand out as one of the best attractions of its type in the country.
Belle Fox, Manager of Chesterfield Escape Rooms, commented: “We are so proud of our whole team that we have managed to remain in the 10 top escape rooms in the country for the second year running.
“We have a massive focus on customer service and customer satisfaction, we want people to really immerse themselves in the experience, most of our games offer some form of interaction with one off our game’s masters, this means we can really get people involved and give them an unforgettable experience.
Since the opening of the venue in 2021, Chesterfield Escape Rooms has grown from originally hosting 3 different games, to now having 7 games to choose from.
Belle continued: “Because we have such a young workforce it’s brilliant to have such an achievement like being in the top 10 in the UK, it shows the team what all their hard work goes towards and what they have achieved.
“We love being a part of the town and hopefully we are bringing something new and fun that everyone can play, we have children as young as 4 play all the way up to 92 years old. Our games really offer something for everyone.
“We head into our 3rd birthday this year so we are celebrating by opening our doors and giving 35 different Charites, schools, organisations and clubs and chance to come and play a game with us completely free on May 19th .”
Chesterfield Escape Rooms supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Chesterfield Escape Rooms, Chesterfield town centre
The organisers of Peddler Market – which saw thousands flock to the town centre in June and September last year – have announced four events for 2024.
Working in partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council, Peddler Market will be bringing their unique street food event back to Chesterfield on 22 and 23 March with another three dates planned on 17 and 18 May, 19 and 20 July and 20 and 21 September.
Ben Smith, Director at Peddler Events, said: “We have been blown away by the positive response to our inaugural events in Chesterfield during 2023. It’s always been our view that Chesterfield town centre is an amazing setting for events like ours, with a backdrop that most towns and cities would crave for.
“We cannot wait to be back after a winter break. We are actively shaping the event to improve and respond to feedback. With confidence we feel our unique combination of live music, outstanding street food and craft beer/ cocktails creates a unique and unrivalled social setting for those wanting to mingle, socialise and soak up the good stuff.”
The first event in March will be open from 4pm to 10pm on Friday 22 and from 12pm to 9.30pm on Saturday 23 – confirmed street food traders include:
Pizza Pi
Flying Cow
Yoi Fried Chicken
Kool Kuta
Taste of Korea
Feast from the East
The Cheesy Pig
Urban Cheesecake
There will be a selection of market traders selling unique handmade items, family activities led by My Arty Party and there will also be some fantastic live entertainment.
Chesterfield Borough Council has partnered with Peddler Market to help support and establish the event – putting Chesterfield on the map as a go-to place for the unique Peddler experience.
Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Last year thousands of people came and enjoyed the fantastic range of food and family friendly atmosphere at the events in June and September. Having Peddler bring their vast experience to our town brings more visitors to the town centre which leads to higher sales for existing businesses.
“We’re delighted to be welcoming the Peddler team back to Chesterfield in 2024 and I hope lots of people will come and support these great events.”
Funding to help bring the event to Chesterfield has been provided through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
Chesterfield Borough Council received £2.69m of UKSPF funding which will be invested across the borough. A portion of this is being invested into promoting the borough as a place to visit, and providing support for arts, culture, and heritage activities.
A new pottery shop, which enables customers to paint their own pots has opened in Chesterfield.
Peel Pottery is now up and running in the Old Mill building of H&F on New Beetwell Street in the town centre.
The store offers a pot ceramic studio suitable for all ages and abilities, whether for the lone painter, a group of friends, work colleagues or special occasions. The shop also specialises in children’s birthday parties, hen parties and team building sessions.
Owner, Louise Peel explains where the idea for the new store came from:
“I have been learning the art of pottery for a few years now, and feel that Chesterfield deserves a lovely space for any individual to come and unleash their creativity. So I have spent some time creating an area at our shop, ready for ‘paint a pot’ and we are also in the process of setting up evening classes in pottery and other arts. I have friends willing to come down and teach jewellery making, Painting tutorials and more.
“The ceramic studio is located on the first floor of H&F and can accommodate up to 24 people, and it has a kitchen area providing light refreshments whilst you create your ceramic masterpiece.
“As a local person I feel that we need a hub that offers several independent services. The building of H&F in January will offer a café and restaurant area at the rear (Devil’s Depot), our handcrafted furniture and accessories at H&F in the main building, and our ceramic studio and workshop on the first floor. This should offer a little something for everyone all under one roof. So please pop down and visit us”
Visit Chesterfield for a great day out or to stay. Our town is brilliantly located in the centre of the UK, with a great range of entertainment for all ages and interests. For more information, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/
Chesterfield is set to provide a magical festive period for families across the area, with a programme of packed events and activities – everything you need for the perfect Christmas.
Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield have once again partnered to launch the annual Christmas in Chesterfield campaign, promoting the exciting festive fun, delightful dining, and unique gifts which can be found in the local area.
Councillor Kate Sarvent, portfolio holder for the town centre and visitor economy, said: “We have a packed entertainment schedule organised in Chesterfield this winter, with many of the events being free or low-cost to come along to. We understand that the cost of living is still affecting everyone, particularly as the colder months are upon us, so as a council, we want to do all we can to provide you with things to do over the festive season that won’t cost a fortune.”
Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, commented: “Christmas provides the perfect opportunity to spend time with friends and family, and I highly recommend people enjoy those precious moments whilst discovering our town’s superb bars, restaurants, and attractions. Once again, Destination Chesterfield has produced several blogs, articles, and guides for your perfect Christmas, and I would urge everyone to take a look and see what our town has to offer.”
Save the date for these great festive events
A Festival of Christmas Trees – at St Mary’s and All Saints Church (Crooked Spire) from Saturday 18 November to Sunday 3 December.
Visitors are invited to come and see over 100 colourful Christmas trees decorated by local people, community groups and businesses, including WI, scout and guide groups, schools and high street stores and venues. This is a free event, and one not to be missed.
Chesterfield Pantomime, Aladdin – at The Winding Wheel Theatre from Friday 1 December to Tuesday 2 January.
Join the hero Aladdin on the journey of a lifetime as he soars through the skies in his quest for fortune and true love. A family extravaganza that’s simply Genie-us!
The Chase star Anne Hegerty is to headline the Chesterfield Pantomime this Christmas. Instantly recognisable as The Governess from ITV’s long-running, multi-award-winning teatime TV programme.
Santa’s Grotto at the Assembly Rooms, Market Hall from Sunday 19 November to Sunday 24 December – at various times (see website for more details on dates, times and how to book).
Families are invited to visit Santa in his Chesterfield Grotto and share their Christmas wishes. Each child will be given a wrapped gift. Tickets are on sale now and are priced at £7.50 per child.
There will also be six relaxed sessions for children with learning disabilities or sensory and communication disorders. The flashing lights will be off, background lighting will be increased and children will have a little longer to meet with Santa.
Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On and Market – Sunday 19 November, from noon to 6pm in Chesterfield town centre.
Join us to turn on the Christmas lights across the town centre. There will be a stage show to entertain the crowds, market stalls to visit and the opportunity to meet this year’s special guest – Paddington™.
Paddington™ will be appearing in Rykneld Square at 12noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.
Revolution House, open Thursday 7 to Wednesday 24 December – from 11am to 3pm (Thursday to Sunday). Revolution House High Street, Old Whittington, S41 9JZ.
There will be a Christmas exhibition titled ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’ which uses whimsical objects from the museum collection to illustrate the famous Christmas song.
You can also see Revolution House decorated for a 17th Century Christmas with displays of greenery, a kissing bough, and colourful flower arrangements provided by our volunteers.
A Christmas Carol Concert will be taking place outside Revolution House on Thursday 7 December at 6.30pm where you will be able to see the Holymoorside Brass Band in the garden for traditional, festive carol singing.
The John Varley ll will be sailing from Tapton Lock (S41 7JB) and the Madeline from Hollingwood Hub (S43 2PF). Here you can take to the water this Christmas to meet Santa on Chesterfield Canal. There will be two different boats in operation.
Santa Fun Run at Queen’s Park – Sunday 24 December (Christmas Eve), starting at 10am (1.5km) and 10:30am (5km)
The Chesterfield Santa Fun Run features participants dressed in Santa suits running around the park, with a 1500m race and another one of 5k. Chesterfield Santa Fun Run is Supporting local charities, Ashgate Hospice and CSALS.
Chesterfield Escape Rooms – ‘Elves on the Shelves.’ Available to book between 10 November – 31 December.
The popular Escape Rooms on Soresby Steet has a brand-new Christmas game this year. Can you find all six elves in a game of hide and seek? Prices range from £55 for 2 players to £120 for 6 players.
Christmas at Barrow Hill Roundhouse – From Saturday 9 December to Sunday 10 December.
Enjoy a family day with a difference at the Barrow Hill Roundhouse this Christmas. Activities include visits from Santa and Christmas Songs. Plus, join in with Christmas Crafts such as making a festive train lantern and funny festive masks.
Chesterfield Borough Council has lots of speciality markets planned from November onwards including the Record Fair, the Artisan Market, and the Vegan Market, as well as the Market Hall, which is open Monday to Saturday 8.30 am to 5 pm where you can pick up a range of foods and gifts for the Christmas festivities.
The general market will also be trading every day from Thursday 14 to Sunday 24 December.
Delicious festive food & drink in Chesterfield’s bars and restaurants
From street food to fine dining, and cocktail bars to cosy cafés – you will find a perfect venue for your festive parties and get-togethers in Chesterfield.
The Bolsover Lantern Parade is set to return for its 30th year, and a new light show is coming to Bolsover Castle to mark the milestone this December.
Bright Winter Nights is an immersive light experience that will take place within the castle’s walls on Friday 1st December, the day before the lantern parade. Light projections, images and sounds from the last three decades will bring the castle walls to life, featuring the stories of local people and their lantern parade experiences.
Visitors can also view a newly commissioned community film as part of the magical evening, which has been created using stories and memories from local people.
The event is being organised in partnership with local Bolsover-based charity, the Freedom Project and English Heritage.
There will be 750 tickets available, costing £2 per child and £3 for adults.
Emily Bowman, Managing Director at Junction Arts said: “Bolsover is very close to our hearts and so we’re delighted to be bringing another exciting event to the town, to mark the 30th year of the lantern parade.
“Bright Winter Nights promises to shine a light on the amazing community spirit and creativity that exists in Bolsover, telling the story of the last three decades within the walls of the famous Bolsover Castle.”
Mark North, Freedom Founder and CEO said: “The Lantern Parade has been an important part of our community for the last 30 years. It has given us a sense of togetherness and excitement and we look forward to Bright Winter Nights and taking in the memories of other members of the Bolsover Community and beyond”.
A spokesperson for Bolsover Castle said: “We always love playing a part in the Lantern Parade so when Junction Arts asked us to work with them to celebrate its 30th anniversary, we jumped at the chance. We want the Castle to be at the centre of the community in Bolsover, for residents to really connect with their heritage and to use the space to celebrate the amazing talent we have in the town.
“It will be a night to remember as the Castle comes to life not only with our fantastic illuminations but the creativity and passion of the Bolsover community.”
The first Bolsover Lantern Parade took place on Saturday 26th November 1994 as part of the Bolsover Victorian Festival. Organised by Junction Arts in partnership with community partners, the event has become a cultural tradition for generations of people. Growing year-on-year, the Bolsover Lantern Parade is now one of the UK’s biggest and oldest light parades.
Bright Winter Nights, The Bolsover Christmas Market and the Bolsover Lantern Parade are all part of the NEW Bolsover Winter Festival – a weekend of festive fun that marks the start of the winter season. More information about all the events taking place can be found on the Visit Bolsover website: https://www.visitbolsover.co.uk/events/bwf/
Junction Arts supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
The 1940s market is coming back to Chesterfield this half-term, promising music, fancy dress, classic cars and plenty of family fun.
Residents and visitors are invited to flock into the town centre on 2 November 2023 from 10am to 3.30pm to sing along to 1940s music, see classic cars and military vehicles and meet market stall holders who will be dressed in 1940s clothing.
There will be street performers in the town centre throughout the event, with the Kalamazoo dance band back again by popular demand, performing in New Square.
The event is taking place alongside the weekly flea market, and as always there will be a competition for the best dressed stall holders.
Councillor Kate Sarvent, portfolio holder for the town centre and visitor economy, said: “Visitors to the market are encouraged to get into the spirit and dress-up in traditional 40s outfits where possible, although this is not essential! This is a fantastic event, and everyone is welcome to attend. There are not many events you can go along to where you can see this much free entertainment, so why not give it a try if you haven’t been before.”
The must-see attraction at this year’s event is the replica spitfire which can be seen in Rykneld Square (opposite the Visitor Information Centre) throughout the event. There will also be a display of classic cars, a vintage fire engine and a variety of other entertainment around the town centre to see including an escapologist.
Chesterfield Museum staff will also be attending with handling objects from their World War Two education box, as well as doing a make-do and mend activity with Transition Chesterfield.
Those attending the event are encouraged to use public transport to travel into Chesterfield, if possible, but there is also lots of parking available around the town centre too. Check out our guides to visiting Chesterfield.
The date for next summer’s Chesterfield Pride festival has been confirmed, following another successful event which saw more than 5,000 people attend last month.
July’s celebration saw huge names performing including A1, Tinchy Stryder, Baga Chipz, Stooshe and many more. The event also saw the launch of its hugely successful “Kids Zone” which had lots of arts and crafts and Drag Queen story time. Chesterfield Pride has cemented itself as one of the country’s favourite LGBTQ Pride events.
Organisers say planning for 2024 has already begun for next year’s celebration, which will take place on Sunday, 21st July. Tickets are now on sale for the event.
Dan Walker, Organiser of Chesterfield Pride commented: “I love Chesterfield as a Town. The Town has seen some fantastic growth in recent years and is a great place to live and work. We have had amazing support from local businesses and the community for the event and this has helped us push the event to become really successful.
“We are so proud how far the event has come in a relatively short space of time. To think there was nothing before 2015 to now have an event that attracts over 5000 people is unbelievable. We are passionate about the event and look forward to growing it even further.
“2023 was a huge success and we can’t thank everyone that attended enough. The weather was less than perfect, however the atmosphere made up for this. The whole event was a sea of colour and smiles. We had so many areas of the community attend. We are proud to be a community event.
Dan added: “We are passionate about keeping the event entry costs low making it more accessible to everyone including families (under 16’s go free) The event is run not for profit and by volunteers.”
More than 8,000 people attended the first Chesterfield Children’s Festival last weekend, with over 4,000 children participating in the weekend’s workshops and activities.
The free two-day event at Queen’s Park was organised by local arts charity, Junction Arts and was funded by Arts Council England. The line-up included live music, comedy, silent disco walking tours, theatre, art workshops, storytelling and games – with children of all ages taking part.
Junction Arts Project Coordinator, Jemma Burton said: “Wow, what an amazing weekend! It was great to see so many families turn out for our first Chesterfield Children’s Festival, thousands of people came along to Queen’s Park to have fun with family and friends.
“It was a celebration of childhood and imagination with a host of free activities for families to enjoy and take part in. Visitors enjoyed impressive live performances including a brass band, a string quartet, a comedy club, theatre shows, Chinese music and daring circus skills! Children of all ages participated in the various activities trying new things with our interactive art workshops, actual arcade games and silent disco walking tours.
“They also got to explore The Garden of Imagination a newly commissioned artwork for the festival, which took the form of a child’s bedroom and had lots of interactive elements for them to play with, including sound sensors and fantasy characters.
“The aim of the event was to create a welcoming space, where young people and their families could explore art, culture and creativity in an accessible way. I hope that everyone enjoyed it as much as we did and made lots of memories.
“We’d like to thank everyone who came along and created such a lovely atmosphere, we hope to see you all again next year!”
Looking for more events and activities to keep the family busy in Chesterfield this summer? Get all the inspiration you need on our Summer in Chesterfield page!
Junction Arts is an award-winning participatory arts charity, that organises a number of festivals and events, including the Tapton Lock Festival and Bolsover Lantern Parade.
The charity supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Visitors can choose from Giant Chess, Connect Four or Table Tennis for a competitive game in the sunshine, before stopping for a bite & relaxing on a deck chair – and that’s not all.
Throughout July and August, alongside events happening around the town centre – they will be hosting a series of free events for all the family to enjoy.
Until Sunday 16th July, Vicar Lane will be serving the best of Wimbledon action on the big screen, whilst visitors can pull up a deck chair in St James’ Square. Spectators will be able to purchase cream teas from The Vintage Tea Rooms and jugs of Pimm’s from Pizza Pi too.
The centre is providing a special treat on Sunday 16th July for National Ice Cream Day – the first 100 customers who visit Vicar Lane’s Ice Cream Van will be able to pick up a free ice cream.
Ahead of the region’s biggest LGBTQ celebration – Chesterfield Pride – taking place on Sunday 23rd July, visitors are being welcomed to Vicar Lane the day before for vibrant entertainment, roaming around the centre as you shop.
On Saturday 22nd July, from 11am – 4pm, shoppers and visitors can revel with flamboyant ribbon dancers and snap a selfie with sparkling stilt walkers, whilst youngsters can have their face painted and get glitter tattoos throughout the day.
Vicar Lane is also excited to welcome the social media ‘Balloon Globe’ sensation to St James’s Square for kids and grown-ups to experience a bubble full of fun.
On Tuesday 25th July, the popular Medieval-themed fun day makes a return to Chesterfield and Vicar Lane will be hosting live musicians throughout the day as an extra treat for visitors to enjoy.
In August, there’ll be Summer fun days to get involved with, from Crazy Golf to roaming performers complete with singing and dancing.
Sarah Bowler, Tenant and Community Liaison Manager said: We are delighted to continue our events schedule into July and August for families to enjoy over the summer holidays. With Chesterfield Pride and the historic Medieval Market happening so close by – it is set to be a great atmosphere and we are excited to join in the fun and offer a place to come and shop, relax, enjoy and dine out!
Find out more about the wide range of summer events and activities taking place across Chesterfield this summer at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/
Vicar Lane Shopping Centre supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Some of the nation’s strongest men and women are coming to our region next month, to battle it out in the bid to be The Peak District Highland Games Champion 2023.
The flagship show, now in its eighth year, takes place at Matlock Farm Park on Sunday 27 August. It features athletes participating in six demanding strength events including the Tossing of the Caber, Eight Tonne Tractor Pull and Peak District Dinnie Stone Challenge.
Beginning with a parade of the athletes accompanied by The City of Manchester Piper Band and a Scottish dancer, the day sees an expert MC provide exciting commentary to enthuse the crowd, with the opportunity for spectators to even take part in a Tug of War.
Lotty Hawkins, Communications Manager of Matlock Farm Park, said: “We’re delighted to be running this fantastic event once again. It’s such a favourite for so many people, whatever the age. It’s a real spectacle and with so much else going on in the park, there’s something for everyone”.
The day also features a range of food, market and craft stalls with a Bradfield Brewery beer tent and a Prosecco stand for Summer refreshments. There is an interactive exotic animal encounter, along with much of the usual fun of the farm park, including sheep racing, small animal handling and playtime fun with the Enchanted Hamlet and Jumping Pillow.
The last two years of the Games have seen strongwomen also competing, much to the delight of inspired spectators. Initially taking part in three of the six strength events, last year they competed in all six disciplines, also pulling the same eight tonne tractor as the men, with Michaela Moore taking the women’s title.
Manbeast Events director Andy Picken said: “There is growing diversity in strength sports and women are demonstrating great dedication to training and some awesome displays of strength”.
He continued: “The female and male athletes are really excited about this year’s Peak District Highland Games, with some amazing competitors lined up. In 2022, newly crowned men’s champion Jake Rideout was pushed right to the very end by Shaun Blairs in a tight contest. With the introduction of some mystery new athletes this year, Manbeast are keeping the rest of the competitors in the dark to keep them focused and ready to battle it out!”
Find out more about the wide range of events and activities taking place across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire this summer at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/
Matlock Farm Park supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
