The Victorian market hall lies at the centre of the town and provides a wide variety of goods and services. There are outward-facing shops as well as open-front units inside, surrounding the food court. It is a comfortable and friendly place with scents of coffee, leather and carpet. The coffee and cakes are excellent for those on a budget. There is a community feeling with patrons and shop-owners willing to smile and chat.
The knitting shop is well-stocked and has a huge range of yarn, from simple to specialised. Some of the shops have been there for years, such as the ladies' slipper shop and the mobile phone repair shop, efficiently run by a gentlemen who can fix any problem whilst telling dad jokes. Truly, the 'phone whisperer'. The traditional sweet shop is a magnet for all ages although, with the coming of modern health and safety, the familiar process of requesting sweets from jars and watching the assistant reach for the huge jar and measuring out the sweets onto the scale before sliding your treats into a paper bag has been replaced by ready-weighed packets. Watches are fixed or supplied with new batteries and straps, top-quality tweed jackets are supplied by a trader who is willing to haggle, and a florist to treat yourself or a loved one. You can be shaved, shorn or tattooed.
The outside shops range from a carpet supplier and fitter (offering low cost fittings daily), a haberdasher, a cheese factor whose proprietor is knowledgeable about British and European cheeses, and a shoe-mender and key-cutter.
The market charter was granted in 1204 by King John but there were regular markets here for hundreds of years before that. The street names, such as The Shambles, hint at there having been a cattle market. However, the rising cost of rents for shops or market stall pitches threatens the future of this remarkable, historic market. What is a town without its fruit and veg market and its indoor market, supplying every need and whim of the local people?

– Dee Hampton

Chesterfield Market is such a vibrant and welcoming place to visit! There’s always something interesting to see, from fresh local produce to unique crafts and treats.
The atmosphere is lively, yet friendly, and the variety of stalls means there’s something for everyone — whether you’re popping in for your weekly shopping or just browsing on a sunny morning.
The market staff and traders are always approachable and helpful, which makes the whole experience even better. It’s the kind of place that really captures the heart of Chesterfield and makes you feel part of the community.
Highly recommended for a relaxed, enjoyable day out — and don’t forget to sample some of the local goodies while you’re there! 🥖🧁🛍️

– Alan

A rather understated town. I visited on a Thursday which is market day. I had a very pleasant experience towards the end of November 2025. It was busy but I was easily able to park my van. Parking rates are similar to other towns in Derbyshire. The market had a vast range of goods on sale at reasonable prices. If the market does not appeal then there is a reasonable selection of shops in the town. Eateries were very busy when I visited at 11.45am.

– Philip Shield