Chesterfield already has a clear, recognisable identity. The crooked spire isn’t just a landmark, it’s a cultural anchor people associate with the town instantly. That matters in a national competition where visibility counts.
More importantly, Chesterfield sits at a crossroads. It’s close enough to Sheffield and the Peak District to draw visitors, but it’s very much its own place, with a working-class history, market traditions, and a town centre that’s actively trying to reinvent itself.
Town of Culture status works best where it can accelerate change rather than simply polish what’s already thriving.
So, when the government launched its search for its UK town of culture last week, they shared that the purpose of this competition is to find towns that will drive the Government’s Plan for Change.
So why could Chesterfield be in the running?
There’s also substance behind the image.
- a long-running open-air market that’s still part of everyday life
- venues like the Winding Wheel that already host music, comedy, and drama
- a strong local music and arts scene that tends to fly under the radar rather than shout about itself
- nearby former coalfield communities whose stories are under-told but culturally rich
Chesterfield also has the right scale. It’s big enough to deliver a serious programme, but small enough that Town of Culture funding would genuinely change things. You’d see the impact in high streets, community spaces, and participation, not just headline events.
Of course there are many other credible alternatives in Derbyshire.
Overall, Chesterfield feels like the town where the title would do important work. It has heritage, venues, people, and a clear need for the boost. That’s usually what wins.
Local support is already there. As Chesterfield resident Lisa Swift puts it: “Yes! We have so many lovely independent businesses in Chesterfield. The museum and theatre is having so much investment to bring arts into the town centre.
“The market is being renovated, meaning more space for more events. We’re on the gateway into the Peak District and we have so many tourists visit us every year. It would be crazy not to put in a bid.
“I just hope people can get behind it and appreciate what we actually have on the doorstep.”
Here’s our gallery of why Chesterfield was named happiest place to live in 2025:
1. Chesterfield
Chesterfield has been named as the happiest place to live locally once again – and here is why we think our town deserves all the praise. Photo: Brian Eyre
2. Peak District on our doorstep
The Peak District National Park is located just on the doorstep of Chesterfield - with endless stunning hiking and cycling routes just a short bus or car journey away. Photo: Jason Chadwick
3. Perfect location
While beautiful countryside is just a stone throw away from Chesterfield, the town is in located near major cities such as Sheffield, Nottingham, Derby and Leeds. With great transport links, Chesterfield offers a much better living alternative providing a more peaceful environment than large cities. Photo: Brian Eyre
4. Beautiful green spaces
The Peak District is a great place to explore when you have plenty of free time, but Chesterfield also has plenty of beautiful green spaces scattered across the town - perfect for a short break during a busy weekday. Queen's Park is among favourite green spots across Chesterfield residents. Photo: Jason Chadwick