Local discoveries, spooky happenings and finding the feel-good moments

October has been a busy month at Visit South Derbyshire, filled with exhibitions, family adventures, local businesses and plenty of conversations. There has been work happening behind the scenes too, as we develop resources, make connections and plan what comes next.

There have also been more appearances in front of the camera — much to my discomfort and, apparently, your enjoyment!

Looking back, a thread runs through much of the month: how places and experiences make us feel. The welcome when you walk into a shop, the enjoyment of trying something creative with a friend, the excitement of children following a trail or the breathing space you find beside the sea.

We spend a lot of time sharing things to do, but the best moments often stay with us because of how we felt while doing them.

A warm welcome at the Visitor Centre

One of the things I enjoy most about working at the Visitor Information Centre is never quite knowing what the next conversation will bring.

Someone might be looking for a local walk, somewhere to take the grandchildren, accommodation for a visit or help understanding their transport options. Others come in to explore the gallery, browse our shelves or simply say hello.

Our team helps bring that information together, from attractions and accommodation to local events, transport information and Wayfarer tickets. We want the centre to be somewhere you feel comfortable calling into, whether you have a specific question or are wondering what there is to discover.

Our four-legged visitors remain very welcome too. Some have become particularly familiar with the dog treat drawer and seem perfectly capable of directing their owners towards it! One such beautiful boy is Freddie, who has become one of the highlights of my week. He never fails to stop by for a fuss and a cuddle, although if I’m being completely honest, I suspect it’s the dog treats he really comes to see.

Treasured possessions and photographs of the stars

October brought plenty to see and talk about in the centre.

We welcomed Irita Marriott for her valuations event, alongside the Quirky Market. It was lovely to see people bringing along treasured possessions, sharing their stories and finding out more about objects they had kept, inherited or always wondered about.

The stories behind those belongings were as much a part of the day as the valuations themselves. Thank you to everyone who came along and helped make it such a memorable occasion. Our last Quirky Market of the year takes place on 7 November and it’s set to be a fantastic event. Browse a wonderful mix of independent traders, unique gifts, handmade treasures and local produce, making it the perfect opportunity to pick up something special while supporting local businesses. Don’t miss this final chance to experience one of Swadlincote’s most popular markets before it returns next year.

Our AstroPix UK exhibition also brought something special to the gallery, encouraging visitors to pause and take a closer look at the skies through astrophotography.

One visitor even cycled from Derby to see it! Moments like that remind me how worthwhile it is to make room for different interests and give people another reason to come into Swadlincote and explore.

Spooky goings-on along the Halloween trail

Our free Halloween trail welcomed little ghosties over half-term, although it seems we had a few spooky goings-on that were not entirely part of the plan!

Some of the letters mysteriously disappeared, leaving a few families with an unexpected extra challenge when trying to solve the clues. Sorry if that caused a scare or left anyone wondering whether the ghosts had been interfering!

Thank you to everyone who joined in and approached our little mystery with good humour. It was lovely to see families coming through the door, searching for clues and enjoying an activity together.

A big thank you goes to Ben and the team at Pollards, and to Morrisons, for providing healthy treats for our little ghosties. Your support was much appreciated and helped us give our younger visitors a lovely half-term welcome.

These activities create opportunities for families to spend time together, explore the town and discover what is inside the Visitor Centre. We have enjoyed being part of those little adventures.

The Magic Attic gets the film-star treatment

Then there is the film Tales from the Magic Attic produced by Eleanor Yule , which has caused quite a stir!

At times, the excitement has felt more like the build-up to a James Bond premiere, except our cast includes the Magic Attic’s very own treasures, Ron and Graham, alongside others who help bring our local history to life.

It has been lovely to see such interest in a film celebrating this much-loved part of Swadlincote. The Magic Attic holds so many stories, but the people who preserve, understand and share them are a huge part of what makes it special. If you have not been to the Magic Attic it is housed in the Sharpe’s Pottery Museum with their own opening hours.

Seeing that knowledge and enthusiasm celebrated on film gives us another way to appreciate what we have on our doorstep.

Who needs Hollywood when we have the Magic Attic? I shall be looking at our local stars a little differently now, although I hope they will still speak to us between their red-carpet appearances! And the red-carpet treatment isn’t over yet. The Magic Attic film will have a special preview screening with Eleanor Yule on Sunday 15th November, and there are still tickets available for the 11am showing. If you’d like to be among the first to see this celebration of Swadlincote’s history and the people who help preserve it, tickets are available from the South Derbyshire Visitor Information Centre.

Experiencing our attractions with the grandchildren

Putting together lists of places to visit is one part of the job. Getting out and experiencing some of them myself is another, and October gave me the chance to visit some of the attractions we have been sharing.

A day at the National Forest Adventure Farm with my grandchildren was a particular highlight.

There is something lovely about experiencing a place through children’s eyes: seeing what catches their attention, what makes them laugh and which parts they want to return to. It also gives you a different perspective when you are the adult organising the day and trying to keep everyone happy!

Those first-hand visits help when talking to other families about things to do. I enjoy being able to share my own experience alongside the information we gather for our listings.

Most of all, it was time with my grandchildren, making memories together. There are still plenty of places on my list, so the exploring will continue.

The National Forest Adventure Farm has already unveiled its Christmas experiences, North Pole Adventures, so now is the perfect time to start planning some festive family fun. Why not book your make-believe journey to the North Pole? With a lot less travel time but all the magic, excitement and Christmas sparkle you could wish for, it’s a wonderful seasonal adventure right here in South Derbyshire Border.

Behind the Scenes at Calke Abbey

One of the highlights of my month was the opportunity to enjoy a behind-the-scenes visit at Calke Abbey.

Like many people, I’ve visited Calke before, but seeing what happens beyond the public spaces through the support of volunteetrs gave me a whole new appreciation for the care, expertise and dedication involved in looking after such a special place. From conservation work to the countless details that visitors may never see, it was fascinating to learn more about the challenges and rewards of preserving an historic property for future generations.

What struck me most was the passion of the people involved. Every object, room and story has significance, and there is an incredible amount of work taking place behind the scenes to ensure those stories continue to be told.

It was also a reminder that some of our most loved attractions offer much more than we see on the surface. Whether you’re a regular visitor or discovering Calke for the first time, there is always something new to notice, learn and appreciate.

As someone who spends much of her time encouraging others to explore South Derbyshire, it was a real privilege to gain a deeper insight into one of our area’s most treasured places. Visits like these remind me just how fortunate we are to have such remarkable heritage attractions on our doorstep.

If you’ve not visited Calke recently, I’d thoroughly recommend adding it to your list. You never know what stories are waiting to be discovered behind those doors. Christmas at Calke is set to be a truly magical experience this year, with festive displays, seasonal walks and plenty of opportunities to soak up the atmosphere. Adding to the magic, Curly Magpie Wonderful Shop will be hosting a Christmas Market throughout December, bringing festive shopping, unique gifts and Christmas cheer to the heart of Swadlincote. Together, they make the perfect recipe for a memorable South Derbyshire Christmas.

Too early to think about Christmas what about stepping behind the scenes at Calke Abbey and standing where Thomas Shelby once stood. This fascinating filming tour takes visitors to locations used in Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, offering a unique glimpse into how the historic estate was transformed for the screen. Whether you’re a devoted Peaky Blinders fan or simply love discovering the stories hidden within South Derbyshire’s historic places, this is a rare opportunity to walk in the footsteps of one of television’s most iconic characters on from November 2026 – February 2027, booking required.

The Bookery: Queues, Bigger Premises and a Story Still Unfolding

One of the lovely local stories this month has been watching The Bookery’s journey.

On its first day, people queued for two hours to get inside. What a welcome for a new independent bookshop in Swadlincote!

Just a few weeks later, The Bookery had already moved into larger premises, creating space for more books, comfortable reading areas and the next chapter of its story. It is becoming far more than just a bookshop; it is a place to browse, settle down, discover your next read and enjoy being surrounded by books. There is a real feel-good atmosphere and it has been wonderful to see people embracing it.

That sense of excitement reached a new high when Swadlincote hosted its first-ever midnight book release, celebrating the arrival of A Court of Splintered Harmony by Sarah J. Maas.

Book lovers gathered late into the evening to share their passion for fantasy fiction, discuss favourite characters and count down the final moments until the highly anticipated release. The atmosphere was electric, creating the kind of occasion more often associated with major city book launches.

Events like this demonstrate the growing enthusiasm for reading within our community and show how independent bookshops can bring people together through a shared love of stories. From devoted Sarah J. Maas fans to readers discovering her books for the first time, the launch was a special moment to be part of.

As the clock struck midnight and the first copies found their way into eager hands, there was a real sense that this was not just the release of a new book but the beginning of an exciting new chapter for literary events in Swadlincote.

We were also delighted to welcome The Bookery onto our shelves at the Visitor Information Centre. Thank you for choosing Swadlincote and South Derbyshire. We look forward to watching your story continue to unfold and to seeing many more readers discover the magic of books right here in the heart of our town.

A creative evening at Sundae Wellness

October also included a paint-a-pot evening at Sundae Wellness with a friend, and what an amazing night we had.

There was a buffet, a wonderful autumn drink and a wellbeing painting workshop that gave us the chance to sit, chat and enjoy doing something creative together.

And I should probably mention that we were voted the best painters there!

There was absolutely no favouritism, honestly. The vote came from a room full of people, none of whom I knew. I feel that makes it an entirely respectable achievement and one I am entitled to mention at least once. Possibly twice.

Sundae Wellness certainly knows how to put on an event. The whole evening felt thoughtfully put together, with the food, drink and activity creating a lovely opportunity to relax and enjoy ourselves. Keep an eye out as I am told there will be more events like this in the future. Also worth nothing they now have a lovely range of gifts in store so pop in and have a look.

What stayed with me was how good it felt to take that time. A night out with a friend, trying something creative and having a laugh, can do you the world of good.

Meeting the people behind our independents

Getting out and meeting local businesses continues to be one of my favourite parts of the role.

There is so much knowledge, creativity and hard work behind our independent shopfronts, and a quick visit can turn into a fascinating conversation.

From the warm welcome at Baumgartners,a family-run business proudly serving Swadlincote for generations and deeply rooted in the town’s history to Ducki Deli, October brought more opportunities to learn about the businesses around us and share their stories. One of the joys of Christmas in South Derbyshire is that you can complete all of your festive shopping in one place. Our fantastic independent shops are packed with unique gifts, beautiful decorations, delicious treats and thoughtful presents you won’t find on the high street. By shopping local, you’re not only finding something special for your loved ones, you’re also supporting the businesses that help make our towns and villages so special.

Those conversations help us talk about South Derbyshire with greater understanding. We get to hear what people do, what they care about and what makes their business their own.

Our markets bring another layer of personality to the town. From fresh produce and food to clothing, vintage finds and handmade items, people are working hard to give us reasons to browse, shop and come back again.

Thank you to everyone who has welcomed me in, made time for a chat or helped us share what they do.

Love, Laughter and Lasting Memories at Swadlincote Town Hall

October also saw a beautiful wedding take place at Swadlincote Town Hall, one of the town’s most iconic and historic buildings.

It was wonderful to see the building playing host to such a special occasion, bringing together family and friends to celebrate the start of a new chapter. The Town Hall provides a stunning backdrop for weddings, but what makes it truly special is the history and memories held within its walls.

Following the wedding, it was lovely to hear from local people who shared their own stories of celebrations, events and weddings they had attended there over the years. Many spoke fondly of their own special occasions, reminding us just how important the building has been to generations of South Derbyshire residents.

Every wedding held at the Town Hall becomes part of that continuing story. Couples are not only celebrating their future together, but also stepping into a place that has witnessed decades of community life, milestones and cherished memories.

As one couple begins their journey together, they add another chapter to the history of this beautiful building, ensuring that Swadlincote Town Hall continues to be a place where memories are made and stories are shared for years to come.

Christmas plans are taking shape

With Christmas approaching, we have been planning more ways to support and celebrate our local independent businesses.

There is so much on our doorstep, and we want to help people discover it: places to find a present, stop for something to eat, enjoy an experience or spend a little time browsing.

A few ideas are taking shape behind the scenes, with more to be revealed soon!

For now, keep an eye on our pages and give our local businesses a little love when you can. A visit, a purchase, a recommendation or sharing something you have enjoyed can help introduce someone else to a place they might otherwise have missed.

For now save the date for Swadlincote light switch on 28th November 2026.

A Vintage Christmas Treasure Hunt

One thing that has really struck me this year is just how many wonderful vintage and antique treasures can be found right here in South Derbyshire.

If you’re looking to add a little character, nostalgia and sparkle to your Christmas decorating, our local independent shops are full of festive gems waiting to be discovered. From beautifully aged glass baubles and vintage ornaments to quirky festive finds and one-of-a-kind decorations, you never quite know what you might uncover.

A wander around Urban Barn, Curly Magpie, Salts, The Noble Robin and Riabeer is a little like stepping into a Christmas treasure hunt. Every shelf seems to hold something with a story to tell, whether it’s a delicate decoration that evokes childhood memories or a unique piece destined to become part of a family’s Christmas traditions for years to come.

In fact, I am convinced that South Derbyshire must contain more vintage baubles per square mile than anywhere else in the country! Everywhere I look there seems to be another treasure sparkling away, waiting for someone to take it home and give it pride of place on their Christmas tree.

There is something rather magical about choosing decorations that have lived a previous life. They bring personality, charm and a sense of history to the festive season, while supporting the passionate independent businesses that make our towns so special.

So if you’re searching for Christmas sparkle with a difference this year, skip the ordinary and spend some time exploring our wonderful vintage shops. You may arrive looking for a bauble and leave with a whole box of festive treasures.

And yes… those videos

I cannot write about October without mentioning those god-awful videos I have been doing.

Getting in front of the camera does not come naturally to me. Somehow, though, you seem to enjoy watching them, which I can only assume means you like torturing me!

In all seriousness, thank you for the kind comments, encouragement and willingness to watch me wander around talking to my phone.

The videos give me a way to show you what is happening, introduce places and people, and bring a little of the Visitor Centre out to those who have not yet stepped through the door.

If they encourage someone to visit an exhibition, support a business, join an activity or discover somewhere new, I shall keep having a go.

Just do not expect a polished television presenter any time soon. The Magic Attic cast may be ready for the red carpet; I am still trying to work out where to look!

Finishing October with 250 Parkruns and some sea air

My final day of October brought a personal milestone: completing my 250th Parkrun in Wales, One of the things I have come to value most about parkrun isn’t the distance or the time on the stopwatch. It’s the sense of community.

One of the wonderful things about the parkrun community is that we do like to travel. It’s not unusual to find parkrunners planning weekends away around a new event, whether that’s collecting a challenge, visiting friends or simply exploring somewhere different.

That presents a fantastic opportunity for South Derbyshire. With popular events such as Conkers, Rosliston and Coronation Park, we’re fortunate to have Parkruns that attract both local runners and visitors from further afield.

For those making a weekend of it, South Derbyshire has a great range of accommodation options, from cosy guest houses and countryside retreats to hotels and self-catering stays. After all, if you’re travelling for a Saturday morning parkrun, why not take the opportunity to explore the area while you’re here?

A parkrun weekend can easily become a mini break, with visitors enjoying our walking trails, independent shops, attractions, cafés and restaurants before heading home. Many runners love discovering somewhere new, and South Derbyshire has plenty to offer beyond the finish funnel.

As a parkrunner myself, I know how welcoming these communities can be. Whether you’re chasing a milestone, adding another venue to your list or simply looking for a friendly event to enjoy, you’ll find a warm welcome here. And if you’re planning a visit, don’t forget to pop into the Visitor Information Centre. We’ll be happy to help you make the most of your stay.

When we talk about things to do in South Derbyshire, we’re really talking about the moments that bring people together. And sometimes, those moments begin with nothing more complicated than a pair of running shoes on a Saturday morning and end with good company, good food and plenty of conversation

It was a lovely way to finish a busy month and a moment to appreciate all the runs, walks, early starts and different places that have contributed to that total.

I also escaped on my own and made my way to a beach. Being by the sea always makes my brain happy. Having that space, watching the water and taking a breath lets my thoughts settle, usually making room for several new ideas in the process.

It gave me some much-needed plotting and planning time. I may have been away from the centre, but the ideas do tend to come along with me!

And, of course, visiting other tourist information centres is a must. I love seeing how other places welcome visitors, share their local stories and display information. There is always something to notice, learn from or come home thinking about.

A parkrun milestone, a beach and a little inspiration from elsewhere felt like a very good way to close October.

Always Something New to Discover

Behind the scenes, we’re constantly updating the Visit South Derbyshire website with new events, attractions, places to visit and local businesses to help residents and visitors discover even more of what our area has to offer.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll be adding a variety of new businesses, including an exciting new wedding venue and a growing number of independent retailers, each with their own unique stories, products and experiences to share.

Whether you’re looking for your next day out, a special gift, somewhere to eat, a local event or inspiration for a future visit, there’s always something new being added.

So keep checking in, keep exploring, and you might just discover your new favourite South Derbyshire business along the way.Coming up: Wonky Bobbins and another creative adventure

November already has another experience in the diary.

Two friends and I are booked into a watercolour workshop at Wonky Bobbins in Repton, with Sometimes Sarah Paints and I am looking forward to visiting somewhere new in South Derbyshire.

After our success at Sundae Wellness, I should probably be careful about getting too confident about my artistic abilities! I will report back on how we get on.

What I am most looking forward to is spending time with friends, trying something different and giving myself permission to concentrate on something creative for a while.

That has been one of my biggest reminders this month: it’s not just about doing; it’s about feeling.

The pleasure of finding a welcoming bookshop. The laughter around a painting table. The excitement of a day out with the grandchildren. The calm that comes from standing on a beach.

When we share places to visit and experiences to try, those are the moments we hope people will find.

As we edge into November here are a few snippets to keep you interested….

Welcoming Carl from Starfish Sculptures

This week as we edge into November, we’re delighted to welcome Carl from Starfish Sculptures to our gallery, bringing a collection of unique and creative work for visitors to enjoy.

Carl’s sculptures showcase impressive craftsmanship, imagination and attention to detail, offering visitors the opportunity to explore a fascinating range of pieces inspired by the natural world and creative expression. Exhibitions like these help us celebrate the wealth of artistic talent we have both locally and beyond, while providing something new and inspiring for visitors to discover.

We’re looking forward to welcoming Carl and sharing his work with our visitors. If you’re passing through the Visitor Information Centre, be sure to take some time to explore the exhibition and perhaps even meet the artist himself on selected Saturdays throughout the exhibition.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, looking for inspiration, or simply curious to see something different, we hope you’ll enjoy this exciting new addition to our gallery.

A Time for Reflection: Stephen Baillie’s Remembrance Exhibition

As we approach Remembrance Day, we are honoured to welcome a special exhibition by talented local artist Stephen Baillie of Maverick Art.

Through his striking artwork, Stephen captures themes of remembrance, reflection and respect, creating pieces that encourage visitors to pause and consider the sacrifices and stories that have shaped our communities.

We are delighted to showcase Stephen’s work within the gallery, providing an opportunity for visitors to experience his distinctive artistic style during this important time of year. His exhibition offers a thoughtful and moving way to reflect on remembrance through creativity, helping keep these stories and memories alive for future generations.

We look forward to welcoming visitors to view this powerful collection and celebrate the exceptional talent of one of our local artists.

As we approach Remembrance, full details of Swadlincote’s Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day commemorations can be found on the Visit South Derbyshire website. Whether you’re planning to attend a local service, pay your respects within the community or spend some quiet time reflecting, information is available to help you take part.

For those looking to extend their visit, a trip to the The Royal British Legion National Remembrance Gardens (Formerly the National Memorial Arboretum) provides a moving and inspirational place of remembrance. Home to hundreds of memorials set within beautiful landscaped grounds, it offers an opportunity to reflect, remember and honour those who have served and sacrificed.

However you choose to mark the occasion, we hope you’ll take a moment to remember those whose service and sacrifice continue to shape the freedoms we enjoy today.

Supporting Danny Motley on accessibility resources

Some of October’s work has been less visible, but it is an important part of what we are developing.

We have been working with Danny on resources to help local businesses provide accessibility statements, giving visitors clearer information before they arrive.

Planning a visit can involve questions that are easy to overlook if you have never needed to ask them yourself. What is the entrance like? Are there steps? Is seating available? What facilities are there, and what might someone need to know about the environment?

Clear, practical information helps people make decisions based on their own needs. It can give visitors greater confidence when choosing somewhere to go and help them prepare for their visit.

Our aim is to support businesses in explaining what they offer and what visitors can expect, including any limitations, in an honest and useful way.

The resources are still developing, and we look forward to sharing more as the work progresses. It has been good to work with Danny on something that can support both our local businesses and the people who want to visit them.

At the Visitor Centre, we have also purchased a portable hearing loop and invited feedback to help us put it to good use. We are continuing to learn, listen and look at practical ways to improve our welcome.

From dog treats to bus timetables, these are some of the questions we’ve been asked most frequently this month: Frequently Asked Questions

What time is the Visitor Information Centre open?

We’re open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 2pm. Pop in for information, inspiration or simply a chat about what’s happening in South Derbyshire.

Are dogs allowed in?

Absolutely. Positively encouraged! In fact, some of our regular four-legged visitors seem to know exactly where the dog treat drawer is and are very good at leading their owners towards it.

What can you help with?

Quite a lot, actually! We can help with:

Things to do in South Derbyshire

Local attractions and activities

Accommodation information

Walking and cycling ideas

Local events

Public transport information

Wayfarer tickets

Leaflets, maps and guides

Gallery exhibitions and local heritage information

Or if you’re not quite sure what you’re looking for, come in and we’ll help you discover something new.

What kinds of exhibitions do you have?

Our gallery hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, including:

Local artists and makers

Photography exhibitions

Heritage and history displays

Community projects

Special interest exhibitions

There’s always something new to discover, so it’s worth dropping in whenever you’re passing.

Do you want to work with more local artists?

Yes, absolutely. We are always interested in hearing from local artists, photographers, makers and creative groups who would like to discuss exhibiting their work or collaborating with us. Supporting local talent is an important part of what we do.

Do you stock up-to-date bus timetables?

Yes, we keep a range of current bus timetable information and can help you find transport options for getting around the area.

Can you book accommodation for me?

We can’t make accommodation bookings on your behalf, but we can show you the accommodation options listed on our system and help you find somewhere that suits your needs.

Do you sell Wayfarer tickets?

Yes, we do.

What is a Wayfarer ticket?

A Derbyshire Wayfarer ticket gives you unlimited travel for a day on most buses and a range of train services across Derbyshire and surrounding areas. It’s a convenient and cost-effective option if you’re planning to explore multiple places in a single day. Our team can explain the available ticket options and help you decide if a Wayfarer ticket is right for your journey.

Can I just pop in for a browse?

Of course! You don’t need a specific reason to visit. Whether you want to explore an exhibition, pick up a leaflet, discover somewhere new, meet the team or simply say hello, you’ll always receive a warm welcome.

Visitor Information Centre, Swadlincote – helping visitors and locals discover the best of South Derbyshire, one conversation at a time.

Goodbye October, Hello November!

As October draws to a close, we’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has visited the Visitor Information Centre, attended an event, supported our local businesses, explored our exhibitions, completed a trail, shared a post or simply stopped by for a chat.

It’s been a month full of stories, creativity, community spirit and plenty of memorable moments. From weddings and exhibitions to book launches, parkruns, independent businesses and family adventures, we’ve loved sharing it all with you.

Now, we turn our attention to November, with new exhibitions, exciting events, creative workshops and, of course, Christmas just around the corner. There is so much to look forward to, and we can’t wait to share it with you.

Until then, take care, keep exploring, support local when you can, and remember that sometimes the best discoveries are right on your doorstep.

From all of us at the South Derbyshire Visitor Information Centre, we wish you a wonderful November.

Best wishes,

Teresa, Lyndsay and Tina