Chesterfield and District Local History Society

The Chesterfield and District Local History Society runs a proper local museum that tells the story of how this corner of Derbyshire actually developed. You'll find exhibits covering everything from Roman times through the industrial boom that shaped the town - textiles, engineering, the works. It's the kind of place where you learn why Chesterfield matters beyond that famous crooked spire.

This is absolutely worth an hour if you're staying at one of the nearby glamping sites - Ernest's Retreat or Slate House Farm are just a couple of miles away - and you want to understand the area properly rather than just passing through. History enthusiasts will find genuine local detail here, the sort of thing you won't get from a big regional museum. Kids might manage 45 minutes before getting restless, depending on their age and how many interactive elements the displays offer.

The admission is usually modest or free, but I'd phone ahead before visiting as opening hours can be variable for volunteer-run operations like this. Combine it with a walk around Chesterfield town centre itself - the spire is genuinely striking up close - and you've got yourself a solid half-day. If you're based at Darwin Forest or one of the other camping spots further out, it's a straightforward drive in, which makes it a sensible rainy-day option when outdoor activities aren't happening.