Notes: Although this ex-coal town took a big hit when local mining died, it has come back fighting. The mines have been replaced by seven industrial estates which have created thousands of local jobs and Alfreton appeals to companies due to its location right next to the A38 and mere minutes from Junction 28 of the M1.
Alfreton is just 20 miles – or 30 minutes – from Derby, Nottingham and Sheffield, which has led to its growing popularity among commuters looking for affordable living costs but access to city opportunities.
Not that Alfreton is all about commuters and industry: this small, albeit fast-growing, town has rebuilt itself into a great place in which to live and work, and everything it has to offer is within walking distance.
There is half a mile of shops in the centre of Alfreton, ranging from independent stores like Bling to well-known names such as Argos, and a handful of central pubs.
There are also two shopping precincts, a pedestrianised area in Institute Lane, and the recent addition of a Tesco superstore which is half the size of a football pitch.
A recent council survey revealed that 80 per cent of residents said Alfreton was perfect for everyday needs.
Riddings Community Centre, opened by Princess Diana in 1992, plays an active role in the town's life.
Rail: Alfreton Station is just outside town on Mansfield Road and is on the Nottingham-to-Chesterfield line. There's also a daily service to London, and Manchester is just 90 minutes away.
Buses: There are great bus services, with a new bus station right next door to Tesco and several bus companies serving the town and neighbouring areas.
Shopping: Tesco dominates the town, but there are more than 150 other shops, mainly traditional and independent ones which have been in families for generations, and a few chain stores.
The shopping heart envelopes two shopping precincts in Severn Square and the pedestrianised Institute Lane. There is also an antique centre and an indoor market four days a week.
Eating and Drinking: Predominately pub food, but there are also some Chinese and Indian estaurants, and takeaways.
Traditional English food is available in a couple of good restaurants and pubs in the town centre.
Sports and Leisure: Alfreton Leisure Centre, in Church Street, is undergoing a massive multi-million pound refurbishment.
It offers all kinds of activities, including a six-lane bowls hall, dancing and fitness classes, a gym and a sports hall for badminton, football and basketball.
Alfreton Park, just off the town centre, has some pretty walks and activities close at hand.
There are plenty of local sports clubs in Alfreton including football, ladies' football, cricket, golf, sub aqua and tennis.
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