WHY GO
Look up at Chesterfield’s unmistakable crooked spire, then discover stained glass and medieval architecture inside its parish church.
Few town-centre landmarks are as instantly recognisable as Chesterfield’s Crooked Spire. The Parish Church of St Mary and All Saints rewards a closer look, from its remarkable silhouette to the stained glass and historic details within Derbyshire’s largest church building. Visit for a quiet moment beneath the medieval architecture, or enquire about a seasonal tower tour for a different perspective over the town. With shops and streets close by, it makes an inviting focal point for a day exploring Chesterfield.
Before you set out
Details and coordinates can be incomplete or out of date. Check current access, conditions, weather and your route with the site operator before travelling. This is not live navigation or emergency guidance.
Plan a safe visit
Editorial review: 30 October 2026. Conditions may change.
Approach
Leave the railway station towards the town centre and follow signs for the Crooked Spire and Church Way. The parish describes this as approximately a 5-minute walk to the church; allow extra time for crossings and your walking pace. The pin marks the church, not the tower viewing platform.
Walking time from arrival (one way)
5 minutes (approximate)
Terrain & steps
Town-centre pavements, road crossings and paved church approaches. The optional tower ascent has 152 steps and is a separate activity.
Accessibility
The parish lists ramp access, accessible toilets, hearing support, large-print material and assistance-dog access. Church interiors are described as wheelchair accessible, but the tower is not.
Access & restrictions
A conservative visiting window is Monday–Saturday, 10am–4pm: the parish page’s detailed footer opens Tuesday/Wednesday at 9am, while its body gives 9am more generally. Sunday access is around services. Worship, funerals and events can affect visits. Ordinary church admission charges are unable to confirm at this time. Tower tickets currently cost £10 adult, £5 under 16, or £20 for two adults and two children.
Facilities
Church gift shop, and a café and toilets at the Parish Centre; accessible toilets and baby changing are listed. Church-toilet availability can depend on services. Public parking is available nearby, including Saltergate; current tariffs are unable to confirm at this time. Parish enquiries: 01246 206506 or contact@crookedspire.org.
Seasonal considerations
Tower tours normally run Friday and Saturday at 2:30pm, Easter to Remembrance, last around one hour and take at most 15 people. Buy tickets in the church gift shop from the Monday of that week; online and telephone booking are not offered. Views and tours depend on weather, peregrines, guides and church events. Confirm before travelling specifically for the tower.
Sources & further reading
The references behind this entry. Use current site guidance for visiting arrangements.