Chesterfield - Queen's Park & Church

Navigating The Route

This is a circular Detective Mystery through Chesterfield town centre, Queen's Park, Shentall Gardens and the area around the famous Crooked Spire, with sleuths following pavements, pedestrianised streets, park paths and historic lanes as they investigate what really happened to sculptor Donna Breakit.

The route is mostly level throughout and follows good quality pavements and paths. Although there is one set of steps along the investigation, these can be bypassed, making the Trail suitable for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs.

⚠️ Important: Detectives will be travelling through busy town centre areas, crossing roads and navigating shopping streets. Please stay alert to traffic, use pedestrian crossings where available and keep younger detectives under close supervision throughout the investigation.

The route also includes sections through Queen's Park, where cyclists, runners and other park users may be present.

Getting There

Time to assemble your squad and open the case file:

By car: Your investigation begins beside St Mary's Gate Car Park (S41 7TJ), which sits directly opposite Chesterfield's famous Crooked Spire church and serves as both the start and finish point of the case. If this car park is full, alternatives can be found nearby at Station Road, Spa Lane and other town centre car parks.

By public transport: Chesterfield railway station is around a 10-minute walk from the start point and is served by regular East Midlands Railway services. The town centre bus station is also nearby, making public transport a convenient option for reaching the investigation zone.

Your first clue awaits at the edge of St Mary's Gate Car Park, opposite St Mary and All Saints Church, better known as the home of Chesterfield's famously twisted spire.

Need the Loo?

Even top detectives need a comfort break during a long case!

Public toilets can be found in Queen's Park beside Frederick's Café, shortly after you cross the footbridge during the middle section of the investigation. It's also a handy spot for a quick refreshment break while reviewing your suspect list.

Bring Your Furry Sidekicks

Four-legged detectives are welcome on the case 🐾

With a mix of town streets and parkland paths, this is a pleasant outing for canine companions. Just keep leads handy near roads, busy shopping areas and around the duck pond in Queen's Park.

Food & Drink Stops

Cracking this case is hungry work!

There are plenty of opportunities to grab refreshments and stock up on supplies throughout the investigation, particularly in the town centre and around Queen's Park.

If you've packed your own provisions, the area around Clues 10-11 in Queen's Park makes an excellent picnic stop while you compare evidence and narrow down your suspect list.

Want to Make a Day of It?

The Crooked Spire

Chesterfield's most famous landmark dominates the skyline and features prominently in your investigation. The twisted spire has puzzled and fascinated visitors for centuries, inspiring countless local legends.

Queen's Park

Opened in 1893 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, Queen's Park remains one of Chesterfield's most popular green spaces, with its lake, bandstand, miniature railway and cricket ground.

Historic Market Town

The investigation threads through some of Chesterfield's oldest streets, including The Shambles and Market Place, revealing layers of history hidden amongst the modern shops and businesses.

Optional Detour - Chesterfield Museum

Once the case is closed, Chesterfield Museum is only a short distance away and offers a fascinating look at the town's history, from Roman origins to the industries and characters that shaped modern Chesterfield.