Chesterfield and its role in being the birthplace of the world’s railway system are to be commemorated with a grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

£240,000 has been awarded to Holy Trinity Church for a project which will honour the legacy of the ‘Father of Railways’, while exploring the impact that railway engineering has made in Chesterfield.

2025 marks 200 years since George Stephenson’s steam-powered Locomotion No. 1 travelled 26 miles between Shildon, Darlington, and Stockton.

This was the first step which changed the world, and the site of Holy Trinity has been of interest for railway enthusiasts and schools.

The grant will focus on its role as a visitor destination and educational hub.

The grant will combine with funding from East Midlands Railway, Cross Country Rail, Graysons Solicitors, Raymond Ross Fund and Holy Trinity Church to enhance the facilities on site, making it more engaging with new material.

Visitors will be able to take a trip through Stephenson’s life and his achievements, with the option to further explore Chesterfield’s history.

With the grant, they will also be creating a series of public events to mark the anniversary with a focus on the future of railways.

“We are delighted to have received this generous support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players and our funding partners, we can now ensure that George Stephenson’s story and Chesterfield’s rich railway heritage are celebrated and shared with future generations.”

Reverend Jilly Hancock of Holy Trinity Church