Chesterfield Cathedral, Peak District

The second largest town in Derbyshire, Chesterfield had its beginning as a market town. Even now, the markets still thrive. Here, you can take a trip back in history and enjoy a truly quaint town in the country. Chesterfield has been inhabited since as far back as the Iron Age.

One of the best known features of Chesterfield is the crooked spire of the Church of St Mary and All Saints. This parish church dates from the 13th century and, as the largest church in Derbyshire, is often mistakenly thought to be a cathedral. There are many theories as to how the spire became crooked but the culprit likely lies in the 32 tons of lead tiles that are covering it.

You will want to visit the market on either Monday, Friday or Saturday, the days on which it runs. Here you will find over 200 stalls for your shopping pleasure. You can stop by on Thursday to see the flea market and the 100 stalls it holds. There has been a market here since 1165 at the very least. You can find the Shambles close by which is a collection of medieval streets dating from the 12th century. There are tearooms, shops and even one of the oles pubs in Britain, The Royal Oak.

There are many trails nearby that you can walk over when you have had enough of the town and want to get out in nature. Other outdoor activities in Derbyshire abound, including rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, mountain biking and caving. In Chesterfield itself, there are the Linacre reservoirs which are surrounded by a woodland where you can walk and cycle.

There is also the Queen’s park which has a lake for boating, gardens, and an area for children to play. You will also find an athletic centre here where you can swim, play squash, badminton or tennis, as well as other sports.

When it comes to gastronomy, there are many choices. If you want fine dining, it is there. For something more exotic, you can choose Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Indian or Mexican. Whatever your individual tastes or budget, there is something for you here. Local specialties include Bakewell pudding, Ashbourne gingerbread, Hartington stilton and Derbyshire oatcakes.

There are many options for lodging also. They run from self-catering to lovely bed and breakfasts and hotels in between. If you prefer, you can find a place to camp or caravan.

You cannot go wrong with Chesterfield – Derbyshire for a weekend or even more time away. Lose yourself in the gorgeous English countryside of the Peak District as soon as possible.

Source: http://www.authorpalace.com