Knutsford Market Hall is officially inviting applications from ambitious small hospitality businesses to join its vibrant, centrally located trading community.
Following a history of nurturing successful local ventures—including the likes of Morgan Edwards—the Market Hall is now seeking an enthusiastic new operator. Available from mid-April (or potentially sooner), the space represents a “low-risk, high-reward” opportunity for a business to scale without the prohibitive overheads of a traditional standalone high-street unit.
Knutsford Market Hall is in the heart of Knutsford, sharing a communal dining space with the popular Market Café. The monthly rent of £371.61 (inc. VAT), which includes essential services like Wi-Fi and waste management.
“Since 1964, the market has been a launchpad for local talent,” says Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager. “While we have pillars of the community like our Market Hall Butcher who have been with us for years, we also pride ourselves on being a space where businesses can test, learn, and grow. We are looking for a unique food or drink offering that complements our existing traders and brings something fresh to the Knutsford scene.”
The successful applicant will join an eclectic mix of established local businesses, including, The Market Café, Hot Cocoa, Market Hall Butcher, and York & Co. (The Grocer), Market Hall Barber, Slipped Discs, Cheshire Party Show, and Knutsford Mobile.
Knutsford Market Hall operates every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, as well as every Makers Market Sunday and during the Christmas markets.
Knutsford Music Festival is back for summer 2026; now in its ninth year and it is set to be one of the best yet. The four-day event will take place from Thursday, 4th June until Sunday 7th June, offering an extensive line-up of live performances and cultural activities across the town.
BBC Radio presenter Mark Radcliffe has once again partnered with Knutsford Town Council to curate an exciting programme of folk nights as part of this year’s event.
The Rip Roaring Success will be opening Knutsford Music Festival 4th June!True Foxes are closing the festival 7th June!
The opening event on Thursday 4th June will celebrate the rich traditions of Bluegrass folk music, a vibrant blend of old-time mountain music, blues, jazz, and square dance fiddle. Mark Radcliffe presents an evening with The Rip Roaring Success at Knutsford Little Theatre. Widely regarded as the hottest Western Swing band east of El Paso, The Rip Roaring Success are renowned for their energetic stage presence and crowd-pleasing performances. They will be supported by The Rye Sisters, an emerging duo celebrated for their rich harmonies and heartfelt songwriting.
Following it on Friday 5th June, Mark Radcliffe presents Ranagri at St John’s Church. Ranagri are an award-winning Irish-English folk ensemble celebrated for their mesmerising blend of voices and traditional instrumentation, including flutes, whistles, harp, guitar, bouzouki, and bodhrán.
With five acclaimed studio albums, including the critically praised Tradition II, listed among Folk Radio UK’s Top 10 albums of the year, Ranagri have established themselves as one of the most exciting and innovative acts on the contemporary folk scene.
Their vibrant live performances have captivated audiences across the UK and Europe at prestigious festivals and venues such as the Cambridge Folk Festival, Bloom Festival in Dublin, Montelago Festival in Italy, Birmingham Symphony Hall, and The Union Chapel.
Jake O’Neill is headlining The Country Collective on the 6th June
On Saturday 6th June Knutsford will host an intimate Country Collective Evening featuring two of the UK’s best country artists. Headlining is Jake O’Neill, who first captured national attention as a standout performer on The Voice UK, joining Tom Jones’s team and showcasing his talent under the guidance of one of music’s true icons. One of the UK’s most exciting emerging voices in country music, Jake O’Neill has earned multiple nominations at the 2024 British Country Music Awards, including Best Male Artist. He blends traditional country narratives with a contemporary edge, delivering soulful vocals, heartfelt songwriting, and dynamic live performances.
Jake O’Neill is supported by Outpost Drive, a dynamic country-rock band celebrated for their energetic live performances and rich, tight-knit harmonies. Combining the storytelling tradition of classic country with the driving edge of modern rock, Outpost Drive create a sound that is both heartfelt and electrifying and have quickly built a reputation as one of the most exciting emerging acts on the UK country scene.
On Sunday 7th June Knutsford Market Hall will be host to an immersive Latino evening at the Market Hall. Ticket holders can enjoy the vibrant sounds of a Cuban two-piece band while learning dance moves from the talented instructors at Salsa Dance Cheshire, making for a night of music, rhythm, and fun.
Also on Sunday over at Knutsford Little Theatre, Mark Radcliffe presents True Foxes. True Foxes are set to take the stage in an unmissable performance, supported by the talented Edwina Hayes. Known for their captivating live shows and emotive songwriting, True Foxes promise an evening of rich melodies and heartfelt performances, with Edwina Hayes adding her signature warmth and charm to the night.
Salsa dance Cheshire will be joing this years festival for an immersive Latino night
Tickets for these headline events go on sale on Monday 9th March. Early bird tickets are available for one-week only, securing those quick of the marks 10% off ticket prices. Tickets can be purchased online at www.discoverknutsford.com/knutsford-music-festival
The full programme for the festival will be completed with Music on the Moor (Saturday 6th June) a free, open-air event showcasing emerging local talent, alongside a programme of craft activities and workshops designed to engage audiences of all ages. A fringe festival featuring a mix of music will also take place across the bars, cafes, and restaurants of Knutsford.
Knutsford Market Hall is offering the opportunity for affordable pop-ups for small businesses, artisans, and makers.
Following refurbishment last year, Knutsford Market Hall has an open central area for table-top traders, with stalls just £20 per day. By offering these competitive rates, the Market Hall provides a low-risk platform for digital-first brands or home-based creators to test the high street and connect face-to-face with the Knutsford community. The initiative utilises the newly created central space in the Market Hall, specifically designed during last year’s renovation to accommodate flexible events and casual traders. Successful applicants will join a vibrant family of established independents, including the likes of The Market Café, York & Co. – The Grocer and Slipped Discs.
“The Town Council is proud to provide the Market Hall as a launchpad for small businesses,” says Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager and Market Officer. “By offering these £20 pop-up slots, we’re inviting the next generation of Knutsford traders to bring something fresh to the hall without the pressure of high overheads. Whether you’re a jeweller, or a craft maker, we want to see your talent in our central hub.”
The £20 rate includes a table, waste and WIFI with the market ideally located on Silk Mill Street straddling King and Princess Streets offering great visibility to residents and visitors. The pop-ups are available on all market trading days – Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and each Makers Market Sunday.
Small businesses interested in a “Startup Pop-Up” slot are encouraged to apply via the official Knutsford Town Council website at www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/market-hall/trade. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis to ensure a diverse and exciting mix of products for shoppers and must compliment not compete with the permanent traders.
Knutsford Market Hall particularly welcomes applications from the following sectors as it wishes to host specialist markets on each Saturday as follows:
Volunteers involved in supporting the local community were thanked by Knutsford Town Council at a volunteer appreciation event on Wednesday 28th January at Knutsford Market Hall.
The event brought together members of the local community to recognise and celebrate the valuable contributions of volunteers.
The event welcomed over 50 volunteers and was designed to highlight the dedication and positive impact of volunteers working across the local area. Guests included community members and volunteers, with Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley thanking volunteers for their continued commitment, noting the difference their time and effort make to individuals and organisations alike. Bryan shared insights from his time in office on the importance of volunteering and its role in strengthening local communities.
Jeanette Hine, Knutsford Town Council’s Corporate Support Manager, said “This event was about showing our appreciation for everyone involved with volunteering and an opportunity to thank all those who selflessly support others and the council activity throughout the year”.
Photo by Knutsford Beer Festival
Left to right Paul Buttrick (Knutsford Lions) Andrew Molloy and Nicola Arnell (Knutsford Beer Festival)
The event concluded with informal networking, allowing attendees to connect, share experiences, and celebrate the spirit of volunteering within the community.
Margaret Hacking, Chairman of Knutsford Talking Newspaper said “Many thanks to everyone at the Town Council who organised and worked so hard at the event last night. What a nice idea to have all the volunteer and community groups together. It was lovely, thank you”.
Bridget Knight from Knutsford Hosts said “I just wanted to thank the Town Mayor and Town Council for such a pleasant evening for Knutsford volunteers. It was a lovely opportunity to meet others and chat!”
One of Knutsford’s most enduring and beloved dining spots, Giovanni’s, has officially Knutsford’s official food tour – Taste Knutsford.
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 tour, they offer an Italian flavour to tour guests.
“We are delighted to welcome Giovannis as the newest recruit to our tour.” said Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager for Knutsford Town Council and tour organiser. “The restaurant is located in a beautiful building close to Tatton Park and offers Italian dishes we know our guests will love.”
Mario Zico, manager, said “We are Knutsford’s only truly independent Italian restaurant, and we are delighted to join the Taste Knutsford family. We are looking forward to offering tour guests a flavour of Italy as one of the lunch stops. Of course, this will be accompanied with a side order of Italian charm and service!”
Taste Knutsford was established in 2018 with the aim of promoting the town’s independent food scene. The tour runs once a month on a Saturday between February and November, with guests typically visiting around seven participating venues in a single tour.
Booking and Information: Guests can find out more about the tour and book tickets by visiting www.tasteknutsford.co.uk.
Private Tours: Private tours for groups of 8 or more are also available.
Partnership Tours: Taste Knutsford is also currently running special shorter evening tours in partnership with Knutsford Ghost Walks, combining food with a spooky ghost tour element. These tours run from November to March.
Knutsford Town Council is thrilled to announce the return of its annual Health & Wellness Week, taking place from Saturday 14th to Sunday 22nd March 2026. This year’s theme, Nurturing Mind, Body and Soul, invites residents to immerse themselves in a vibrant programme of activities celebrating health, wellbeing, and community.
The week kicks off with Re-Fresh Knutsford, a refreshed community fair showcasing local clubs, groups, classes, volunteer opportunities, and Knutsford’s fantastic wellbeing businesses. Saturday 14th March, 11am–2pm at St John’s Church and Knutsford Methodist Church, residents can drop in for free to explore new activities, meet like-minded people, and discover ways to get involved in the community.
Health, fitness and wellbeing are at the heart of the week, with residents able to enjoy free and discounted taster sessions including Pilates, yoga, boxing, circuit training, massage, sound baths, and hypnotherapy. Health checks and screenings are also available, covering dry eye care, oral health, osteopathy, cardiovascular wellness, hearing tests, and musculoskeletal assessments. Specialist talks will cover nutrition, menopause, infant and child food, posture, and relationship coaching.
The event is sponsored by Clare & Illingworth Optometrists on King Street. Richard Clare, Clare & Illingworth Managing Director said “We’re proud to sponsor Knutsford Health & Wellness Week 2026. It’s a fantastic opportunity for residents to explore ways to improve their health and wellbeing, from eye care to fitness, and to connect with local experts. We look forward to welcoming the community to our clinics and sharing advice on how small changes can make a big difference for your overall wellness.”
Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager at Knutsford Town Council, said: “This is the perfect opportunity to try something new, connect with local experts, and prioritise your health and wellbeing.”
Many activities are free, while others are discounted or require booking, which can be arranged directly with the hosts. A full programme, including booking information, is available on the Discover Knutsford website, with printed copies available from town centre businesses.
Businesses involved include:
Roberta Beauty Redefined
Elite Health
Clare & Illingworth Optometrists
King Street Dental
Casbah Fitness
Soul Reformer
NC Health & Wellness
Judi Quirke Hypnotherapy
Find Your Backbone
King Street Dental
Satya Sanctuary
Tor Nutrition & Guided Outdoor Adventures
Siân Winslade Relationship Coach
York + Co.
Nicola Parish – Non-Linear Movement Method® and Reiki Healing Meditation
Empower Dance
Tomorrow Cardiovascular Wellness
K Clinic Dental
Knutsford Hearing Centre
Stable Minds
Carmichael Clinic of Physiotherapy & Acupuncture
Helen Jones Nutrition
Photo by Knutsford Town Council
Pictured James Power of Find Your Backbone, Richard Clare of Clare & Illingworth, Sian Winslade of Sian Winslade Coaching, Helen Jones of Helen Jones Nutrition, Charlotte Montgomery of Satya Sanctuary and Victoria Hudson of Casbah Fitness.
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.
