Crooked Spire

The Crooked Spire - Chesterfield visitor guide showing a virtual tour of 'The Crooked Spire' linked to an interactive map with local and travel information. 360° panoramas from Derbyshire.

The Crooked Spire is one of the landmarks and attractions in Chesterfield in Derbyshire, and is the spire of Church of St Mary and All Saints. Much of the church dates back to the 13th century, but it is most famous for the crooked spire. The spire is both twisted and leaning, it turns through 45° and leans 2.9m from the central axis. On some days it is possible to climb part way up the spire and get stunning views over the surrounding area on the east side of the Peak District. On winter days the spire is often seen from surrounding hills rising out of the mist.

The cause of the spire's spiral is unknown, but one thought is that it was built by unskilled workmen shortly after the Black Death had swept through Europe. More colourful stories include the spire bending over in shock to witness the marriage of a virgin in the church, and the devil knocking it when jumping over after being mis-shoed by a local blacksmith. Chesterfield FC is named 'The Spireites' after the Crooked Spire.

Church of St Mary and All Saints
Church Way,
Chesterfield, S40 1XJ