Chesterfield Canal

Leisure and culture Countryside Countryside sites Waterways and wetlands

The Chesterfield Canal is an oasis of calm, a beautiful waterway and its surrounding countryside is within minutes of the hustle and bustle of supermarkets and the busy town of Chesterfield. It was built more than 200 years ago.

Barbecues are not permitted at any of our sites.

We have 5 miles from Chesterfield to Staveley that is open for boating and then another 9 miles in need of restoration. For more information about the history and restoration of the canal visit the Chesterfield Canal Trust.

Refreshments and toilet facilities are available at Hollingwood Hub.

Access

The canal towpath is multi-user so whether you are walking, cycling, have a pram or a wheelchair you can enjoy the scenery and wildlife. Photographers are always keen to try and catch the brilliant blue flash of a kingfisher as it darts past.

Canoes and stand-up paddle boards

The canal is becoming much more popular with paddlers and they're lovely to see. All paddlers must log their visit with us:

Go Paddling | Go Canoeing, Go Kayaking, SUP | PaddlePoints | Tips members paddle free of charge. All other users need a day licence, email countrysideservice@derbyshire.gov.uk or telephone: 01629 533020.

Several local groups use the canal to coach children and young adults in the handling of canoes and water safety.

Boating

You'll need a licence to launch your own trailer boat on the Chesterfield canal.

To buy a licence, email countrysideservice@derbyshire.gov.uk or telephone: 01629 533020.

You'll need third party or public liability insurance. The fees, licence, terms and conditions, and application forms are attached to this page.

CC16 boat licence fee for Chesterfield Canal

Pleasure boat:

  • 1 day: £14.40
  • 1 week: £46
  • 1 Year: £174

Portable boat:

  • 1 day: £7.20
  • 1 week: £16.50
  • 1 year: £65.50

Paddle UK members are free (conditions apply). Telephone: 01629 533020 for details.

Group rates

Profit organisations (up to 10 boats):

  • 1 week: £102.50 plus £10 for each additional boat
  • 1 year: £748 plus £74 for each additional boat

Not for profit organisations and LEA schools (up to 10 boats):

  • 1 week: £51 plus £5 for each additional boat
  • 1 year: £2406 plus £24 for each additional boat

Boat trips

On summer weekends and bank holidays you can enjoy a trip from on the Chesterfield Canal Trust trip boats. You can also meet Santa on the boat on one of the special trips in December.

Fishing

You can enjoy fishing on the canal only where you find a built fishing platform.

We're currently seeking a club to manage the fishery on the canal. Telephone: 01629 533020 to express an interest.

Facilities available

  • *Bridleway/Horse riding trail*

Bridleway/Horse riding trail

  • *Cycle path*

Cycle path

  • *Easy access for all*

Easy access for all

  • *Footpath*

Footpath

  • *Parking*

Parking

  • *Picnic area*

Picnic area

  • *Toilets*

Toilets

  • *Wildlife area*

Wildlife area

Contact details

Address:

  • Lockoford Lane
  • Chesterfield
  • S41 7JB

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