Knutsford’s Community freshers-style fair, Re-Fresh Knutsford, is set to return in March giving community groups, charities, and clubs the opportunity to showcase their organisation and recruit members.
Organised by Knutsford Town Council, Re-Fresh Knutsford emerged in 2021 as a community fair based on the concept of a ‘freshers fair’. The event gave Knutsford residents the opportunity to discover organisations and clubs within the town and to connect to groups working in the community.
Knutsford Town Council are currently recruiting community groups, charities, and clubs to showcase themselves on 14th March. The event will be held across two venues: Knutsford Methodist Church and St Johns Church from 11am – 2pm. It is free to exhibit for all groups.
Corporate Support Manager, Jeanette Hine said ‘Knutsford is lucky to be the home of many interesting clubs and community groups. As an active member of a local sports club, I know how rewarding being a member of a club can be. We understand it can be hard for clubs to get their organisation known and for residents to find exactly what they are looking for. This event is a brilliant opportunity to connect these groups to these residents and showcase what they do’
Any group wishing to exhibit at this event can do so by contacting enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk . The deadline for expressions of interest is 13th February 2026.
One of Knutsford’s most enduring and beloved dining spots, Giovanni’s, has officially joined the growing list of local businesses accepting the Knutsford Voucher.
Located at the iconic Tatton Park end of King Street, the authentic Italian restaurant has long been a favourite for locals and visitors alike. By joining the scheme, they offer voucher holders a taste of Italy right in the heart of the town.
The Italian restaurant has an enviable location at the Tatton Park end of King Street and is popular with both locals and visitors. Mario Zico, manager, said “We are delighted to begin accepting the Knutsford Voucher. It’s a fantastic initiative that encourages people to shop local while providing a versatile gift option. We look forward to welcoming voucher holders to enjoy our authentic Italian menu very soon.”
The scheme, which launched in 2020, now boasts over 50 participating businesses. Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager for Knutsford Town Council, noted the programme’s impressive growth,
“When we launched in 2020, we couldn’t have predicted just how much the community would embrace it. Today, the voucher (complete with a gift card) is a wonderful gift for all ages. It’s a point of pride that you can now use it for everything from a traditional Italian dinner to a coffee, a new cushion, or even a chicken!”
Vouchers can be purchased via the Discover Knutsford website or in person at the Town Council offices. Each voucher comes with a gift card, and 100% of the value goes directly back to the local business.
Knutsford Market Hall is buzzing with activity this month as it welcomes a local chocolate specialist, celebrates the expansion of a popular party boutique, and sees its newest grocer go digital.
The Market Hall family has grown with the arrival of Hattie Cufflin, the talent behind Hot Cocoa. Hattie opened her stall on Tuesday, January 13th, providing a temporary home for her artisan chocolates while her new permanent premises on King Street are being prepared.
Visitors can enjoy Hattie’s signature range of bon-bons and homemade chocolates, as well as access her bespoke cake ordering and collection service.
“I am so pleased to have the opportunity to trade in the Market Hall,” said Hattie Cufflin. “The traders have been incredibly welcoming, and it’s the perfect arrangement. Whether you are a regular or a new face, please come and visit—I’ll ensure your favourites are in stock!”
The Market Hall is also celebrating the success of Cheshire Party Store. Owners Simon and Melanie Naylor have moved into the larger stall previously occupied by Polka Bakery. This expansion allows them to showcase a wider variety of cards, balloons, and stationery. Fans of Polka Bakery needn’t worry, as the bakery will continue its presence in the hall as a weekly pop-up.
Melanie Naylor commented: “We’ve been outgrowing our stall for some time, so we are thrilled to move to a larger space. We love trading in the Market Hall and are excited to offer even more to our customers.”
The market’s newest addition, York & Co. – The Grocer is expanding its horizons. Alongside a new range of organic staples and cold-pressed juices, they have officially launched their website: www.yorkandco.co.uk. Customers can now order tailored organic vegetable boxes for free local delivery or market collection.
Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager, added: “We are delighted to have Hot Cocoa on board and to see Cheshire Party Store thriving. Offering local delivery is a fantastic step for York & Co., catering to our busy residents who can’t always visit us during the week.”
The full list of market traders is as follows –
The Market Café
Thai Kitchen
Hot Cocoa
Market Hall Barber
Slipped Discs
Cheshire Party Show
Market Hall Butcher
Knutsford Mobile
York & Co. – The Grocer.
Knutsford Market Hall is open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and every Makers Market Sunday.
Discover Knutsford has today launched a town-wide survey, inviting residents and visitors, to share their views on what makes Knutsford special and how the town can continue to thrive.
As a thank you for their time, everyone who completes the short survey will be entered into a quarterly prize draw to win a share of Knutsford Vouchers, which can be spent at over 50 independent shops, restaurants, and businesses across the town centre.
The short survey, commissioned by Knutsford Town Council under the ‘Discover Knutsford’ brand, seeks feedback to what shops, restaurants and bars visited, whether the visit was combined with a visit to Tatton Park and what people liked and disliked about the town. The data gathered will play a role in informing the town’s strategic plans and helping local partners understand the evolving needs of the community.
Sandra Curties, Knutsford Town Centre Manager, said: “Knutsford is a town with a unique character and a fiercely loyal community. As we look ahead to the coming years, we want to ensure our plans reflect what people truly value—whether that’s our independent high street, our green spaces, or our events. This survey is a quick way for people to have their say, and we’re delighted to offer Knutsford Vouchers as a prize to encourage as many responses as possible.”
The Knutsford Voucher scheme was launched in 2020 to “ringfence” local spending, ensuring that money stays within the town’s economy. Participating businesses range from award-winning restaurants such as Evuna and Linden Stores to long-standing retailers Arthur Lee Interiors and Hal Whittaker.
A link to the survey can be found on small business cards currently being distributed across the town centre. The survey has no end date and prize-winners will be drawn quarterly.
Judges visited Knutsford in August to tour the town centre and view the town’s community managed garden spaces.
Knutsford received the Silver Gilt award in the Large Town category of the main North West in Bloom Awards. The second from top award recognises a high standard entry, which meets virtually all of the judging criteria and includes sections of exceptionally high standards. Silver Gilt exemplifies best practice in multiple areas and demonstrates very high potential for continuing development and sustainable effort. Detailed scoring is awaited to identify how the town can get back to Gold in the 2026 awards.
The North West in Bloom competition judges assess not only horticulture, but also important qualities such as pride of place, sustainability, and community involvement in the town’s floricultural efforts.
Left to Right – Jackie Edwards, Sikha Dutton, Kevin Griffiths, Paul Jackson, Sue Galloway, Roger Brown, Christine Skinner
Four of the town’s community managed garden spaces were awarded the highest accolade of Outstanding in the It’s Your Neighbourhood Awards. The awards recognised the quality of community participation, environmental responsibility and gardening achievement in spaces run by community groups. Crosstown Community Orchard, Mereheath Lane Allotments, Sparrow Lane Allotments and the Railway Station were all recognised with this highest award.
Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Harltey said “This is a remarkable achievement and a true reflection of the hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm shown by the allotment holders and volunteers. The town extends a huge thank you to everyone involved for helping make the area such a beautiful and welcoming place.”
Knutsford’s annual Christmas Window Competition, hosted by Knutsford Town Council, has once again brought seasonal cheer to the town centre.
The annual competition is judged by the Town Mayor alongside Ian Cass, Managing Director of the Forum of Private Business which also sponsors the annual Knutsford Town Awards. Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley and Ian toured the town centre to view all the window displays created by local businesses.
This year the winner was Cranford Café with their handmade window art created by manager Ian Whiteside. In second place was The Blind Pig for their painted window and decorated outdoor area. In third place was NaturalMat for their nature inspired festive display created inhouse from foraged materials.
The overall winner was presented with a trophy and certificate with 2nd Place and 3rd Place certificates going to the runners up. Certificates were also presented for best small window and best charity shop window.
The best small window award went to Morgan Edwards for their lush wreath display. Children’s Adventure Farm Trust won best charity shop window for their fun colourful display.
Second Prize, The Blind Pig, L to R – Adam Hilton The Blind Pig, Knutsford Mayor, Lauren Lavin The Blind Pig, Ian Cass, Forum of Private Businesses
Third Prize, Naturalmat LtoR, Ian Cass Forum of Private Business, Faye Ravenscroft, NaturalMat, Knutsford Mayor, Jessvinder Gill, Naturalmat
Best Small Window Morgan Edwards Fine Wines and Spirits L to R – Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Morgan Ward, Morgan Edwards Fine Wines, and Knutsford Mayor
Best Charity Shop Window, CAFT L to R Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Angie Greenway Caft Crew, Stephen Leigh, Volunteer, Knutsford Town Mayor
Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley said, ”Once again, the Christmas windows across our town centre have been nothing short of spectacular. It’s clear how much creativity, care, and hard work have gone into each display, with many business owners dedicating countless hours to bring a little extra magic to our streets. Every shop should feel incredibly proud of their contribution to the festive atmosphere that makes our town so special at this time of year.”
“Choosing the winners this year was no easy task. Each display reflected such effort and imagination, so the awards were decided by looking closely at both the craftsmanship and the overall festive impact. Congratulations to all our winners, and a heartfelt thank-you to every business for bringing such joy and Christmas spirit to our community.”
Pictured
Photos by Knutsford Town Council
Photo 1 : First Prize, Cranford Café, L to R Phil Crook Cranford Cafe, Melanie Potts Cranford Cafe, Cllr Bryan Hartley, Sophie Ranfield Cranford Cafe, Ian Whiteside Cranford Cafe, Scarlet Squire Cranford Café and Kismet Singh Cranford Café.
Photo 2 : Second Prize, The Blind Pig, L to R – Adam Hilton The Blind Pig, Knutsford Mayor, Lauren Lavin The Blind Pig, Ian Cass, Forum of Private Businesses
Photo 3: Third Prize, Naturalmat LtoR, Ian Cass Forum of Private Business, Faye Ravenscroft, NaturalMat, Knutsford Mayor, Jessvinder Gill, Naturalmat
Photo 4 Best Small Window Morgan Edwards Fine Wines and Spirits L to R – Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Morgan Ward, Morgan Edwards Fine Wines, and Knutsford Mayor
Photo 5 Best Charity Shop Window, CAFT L to R Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Angie Greenway Caft Crew, Stephen Leigh, Volunteer, Knutsford Town Mayor
Knutsford was brimming with festive spirit this past weekend as the town welcomed thousands of visitors to its annual Christmas Markets, held on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November. Organised by Knutsford Town Council, this year’s event showcased a refreshed layout expanding the markets across both Princess Street and King Street for the first time, creating a more spacious and enjoyable festive experience for attendees.
The new two-street format offered an extended range of artisan stalls, festive gifts, seasonal treats and unique shopping opportunities. Silk Mill Street hosted a bustling dedicated food trader area, while stalls lined both Princess Street and King Street, giving shoppers more to discover throughout the town centre.
Several of Knutsford’s own retailers embraced the refreshed layout by taking stalls within the markets to increase visibility for their high-street shops. These included Oliver Wild, Verity Plum and Kanoa Living, alongside hospitality businesses Dexter & Jones and Morgan Edwards.
Entertainment filled the streets throughout the weekend, with steel drum performances, brass bands, and a mini funfair by John Collins Funfair outside The Lost & Found. The expanded layout created more room for browsing and helped visitors enjoy a relaxed festive setting across the town.
Stall holder Keith Hutchinson from Simply Turned Wood said “Despite the dreadful weather on Saturday, the Knutsford Christmas Market was a real success. Everything was so well organised, and every member of staff and volunteer we came across was friendly, supportive and unfailingly cheerful. Knutsford had a wonderful festive atmosphere throughout, and the market felt vibrant and busy regardless of the rain.”
Local retailer Gail Travis of Kanoa Living, who also had a stall at the markets, said: “Knutsford really came alive this weekend with the Christmas Markets—such a great, relaxed atmosphere all around the town.”
Knutsford Town Council Events Manager Laura Phillipson added: “It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the festive atmosphere across the town centre this weekend. The expanded layout allowed us to welcome a wider variety of participants, from artisan makers to local businesses, each adding something special to the experience. As we continue to refine the event, we’ll keep building on these changes to bring visitors and residents into the town and showcase Knutsford at its best.”
This year’s markets followed the earlier Christmas Lights Switch On, held separately on 15th November, allowing each event to shine while giving families more space to enjoy the celebrations.
Knutsford Town Council extends its thanks to Bruntwood for supporting the Park and Ride service, the Knutsford Hosts for their help with the Mayor’s Stall, the Discover Knutsford Stall and Park and Ride, and to this year’s event sponsor, Colosseum Dental, for their generous support.
The Town Council also thanks all traders, retailers, performers, volunteers and visitors who contributed to a successful festive weekend.
Knutsford welcomed the start of the festive season on Saturday 15th November, as the town centre came alive with the annual Christmas Lights Switch On and Santa Parade. Residents and visitors gathered to enjoy an afternoon of festive entertainment, marking the official beginning of Christmas in Knutsford.
From 4pm, the build-up to the switch-on featured a vibrant programme of performances from Knutsford’s local primary schools, SMB Dance, and musician Ben Tavill, who entertained the growing crowds ahead of Santa’s arrival. After the Christmas lights were switched on, local band Instant Vintage took to the stage with a lively set of festive hits.
The Grinch and Elf on the Shelf at Knutsford Light Switch OnSanta and an Elf starting the parade.
Organised by Knutsford Town Council, this year’s lights were switched on by Knutsford Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley who was joined by Father Christmas, The Grinch, Elf on the Shelf and Knutsford Royal May Queen, Jemma Woolf to the delight of children and families. The switch-on followed a Santa Parade, led by the City of Chester Brass Band, with Santa greeting children along the way.
In a change from previous years, the Christmas Lights Switch On was separated from the Knutsford Christmas Market to create a more spacious and enjoyable environment for families.
Local resident Clare, who attended with her family, praised the new format, saying “it was much more pleasant and much safer. Previous years’ crowds have been awful, with young children getting squashed and prams unable to move. We actually got close to the stage to see one of our children dancing, which was a real bonus. I hope they do the same next year.”
Event Manager Laura Phillipson added: “We’re grateful to everyone who joined us to kick off Christmas in Knutsford. The new format helped create a calmer and more enjoyable atmosphere, and we’ll keep building on that as we plan future events. It’s wonderful to see the community embracing the celebrations and supporting our performers, traders and volunteers.”
Festivities will continue later this month as Princess Street, King Street and Silk Mill Street host the popular Knutsford Christmas Markets on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November. The markets will showcase Cheshire’s finest artisan stalls, festive gifts and decorations, and a wide selection of high-quality food traders.
Visitors can look forward to highlights including John Collins Funfair outside the Lost & Found on Princess Street, a dedicated food trader section on Silk Mill Street, an array of artisan gift and food stalls and some festive street entertainment.
The Christmas Lights Switch On was generously sponsored by Piccolino, while this year’s Christmas tree has been sponsored by Speedy Freight.
Knutsford Town Council looks forward to welcoming everyone back for another magical festive weekend as the town continues its countdown to Christmas.
Plans for a second Knutsford Triathlon have been supported with a £1,500 grant in the latest round of our community grant scheme.
Knutsford Tri Club started life in 2009, set up by a group of Knutsford residents including Robin Maxwell and Jim Cox. Having completed the Tatton Park Triathlon as complete novices, they decided to start a triathlon club where like-minded individuals who wanted to train, race and socialise together could gather and enjoy the sport they loved.
Over the years Knutsford Tri Club has grown to become a vibrant community of swimmers, cyclists and runners who train race and socialise together. They have members who have represented Great Britain at all age group levels and members who have qualified for the world championships in Kona – we are even home to the legendary Dave Clamp, Deca Ironman world champion in 2018. Equally there are members who just want to take part in triathlon and do their best at whatever level that is – middle of the pack or the bottom 10% – the important thing at KTC is taking part.
The grant will support the club’s 2026 triathlon, due to take place on Sunday 17th May 2026. The triathlon features two ambitious distance options for those keen to swim, cycle and run their way around town. If you’d like to get involved but don’t know where to start, the club runs regular training and coaching sessions that everyone is welcome to join.
Knutsford Town Council is pleased to have granted £1500 which will support running costs for the event. Peter Ford, Chairman of the Knutsford Triathlon Event Committee shared:
“We at Knutsford Tri Club are very happy to receive a Community Grant in support of our triathlon. It means we have a secure financial basis to put on the event in 2026 and puts us in a position to build on this year’s success with even more happy participants. We look to increase community engagement with sport and actively encourage first-timers into triathlon. We want the Knutsford Triathlon to become an annual fixture, to take part in or support, and welcome the support of the Town Council.”
Interested in applying for a community grant? The next round of applications closes on 31st December 2025. Run by Knutsford Town Council, the Community Grant Scheme provides a range of grants to support community projects and activities within our town. We’re particularly keen on prioritising services/opportunities for young people or older people, providing new or improved assets or services for the community and enhancing the profile or reputation of the Town. For more information visit: https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/community-grants.
Knutsford Town Council is proud to launch the Feeding Charter, a new community initiative designed to make visiting Knutsford town centre stress-free and welcoming for all parents and carers of babies and young children.
Effective immediately, this compassionate programme invites local businesses across our charming streets to offer a dedicated, welcoming space for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding babies. The scheme also extends this support to any parent, grandparent, or carer needing a comfortable spot to sit and feed older children.
The Charter specifically acknowledges the challenges our unique and sometimes narrow streets can pose. Delivered in collaboration in with local businesses, the scheme creates a more inclusive environment. Participating venues will display a ‘Baby Feeding Welcome’ sticker in their windows, assuring visitors that a welcoming space is available without the obligation to make a purchase.
“We are proud to support our community with this initiative,” said Town Centre Manager Sandra Curties “Knutsford is a town with a big heart, and by introducing the feeding charter, we are taking a step towards ensuring that our shops are accessible to all, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity.”
Participating locations include:
Knutsford Heritage Centre, 90A King Street, WA16 6ED
Dagmara Studios, 8A Minshull Street, WA16 6HG
Cranford Café, 10-12 Canute Place, WA16 6BH
The Tea Room, Cotton Shop Yard, 73 King Street, WA16 6DX
Detaljer, 39-41 Princess Street, WA16 6BW
Booths, Stanley Road, WA16 0BS
KnutCraft, Ruskin Rooms, Drury Lane, WA16 6HA
Knutsford Market Hall, Silk Mill Street, WA16 6DF
Neki Café, 19 King Street, WA16 6DW
Satya Sanctuary, 44-46 King Street, WA16 6DT
MAK Clinic, Royal George Building, Regent Street, Wa16 6GR
Charlotte Montgomery, owner of Satya Sanctuary said, “Joining this scheme felt like a natural step for us. Our studio already offers a range of parent and baby classes, including Baby Yoga, Baby Massage, Mamma Barre and Mamma Reformer. We’re used to mums feeding their babies in class and always want them to feel relaxed and at home”
Charlotte continues, “Our chill-out lounge is open to any parent or carer passing by during our opening hours. You’re welcome to pop in for a complimentary herbal tea, use our baby-changing facilities, or just take a quiet moment to unwind. We’re easy to find, fully accessible before and after classes via the courtyard just behind Jessica Stone on Church Hill. There’s a short video on our Instagram page showing the entrance if you need a hand finding us. We’d love to see more local businesses get involved to help make our town even more welcoming for parents and babies”
Emma who runs Cheshire East Mum Club said, “This is such a wonderful idea, and I will be spreading the word across all my members. If you have a crying baby or a hungry toddler or both the relief when you spy a ‘Baby Feeding Welcome sticker’ will be immense. Well done, Knutsford!”
