The Crooked Spire
Twisted since the 14th Century
Our most treasured jewel is the Crooked Spire, officially the Church of St Mary and All Saints — its spectacular, twisting top dominates our skyline, and has enchanted visitors for centuries.
Leaning an impressive 9 feet 6 inches to the south-west, and twisting 45 degrees, this 14th-century architectural phenomenon is the pride of Chesterfield. While legends attribute colourful causes to the twist, a more grounded tale references the combination of about 150 tons of unseasoned green oak timber, and a little over 30 tons of lead tiles twisting under the heat of the Sun.
Step inside
The church’s interior is breathtaking, featuring beautiful stained glass.
Climb the tower
A guided tour climbs the stone steps into the wooden framework, to see why the spire twists, and for the view over the town. Weather and the peregrines permitting: if the falcons are breeding, usually until July, the tour does not go outside at the top.
- When
- Friday and Saturday at 2.30pm, from Easter until Remembrance
- How long
- About an hour. 15 people at most.
- Tickets
- From the church gift shop, from the Monday of the week of the tour. Not online, and not by phone.
- Adult
- £10
- Child under 16
- £5
- Family
- £20 for two adults and two children
- Groups
- Ten or more: the parish office may be able to add a tour. 01246 206506.
- Address
- Church Way, Chesterfield S40 1XJ
- Church open
- Monday to Saturday, 9am–4pm
- Map
- Google Maps