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 Health & Wellness Week Returns – Bigger, Brighter and Better Than Ever

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.

Councillor Lesley Dalzell and other members of Crosstown Community Orchard

Re-Fresh Knutsford call for Community Groups and Clubs to exhibit

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.

Cranford Cafe wins best Christmas Window!

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

Elves, Santa and Knutsford Mayor, Cllr Bryan Hartley at Knutsford Light Switch On

Knutsford kicks off Christmas with festive lights switch on

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.

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.

Characters Ready for Wallwood

Pumpkin Path thrills families!

Knutsford Town Centre was filled with Halloween spirit last weekend as the much-loved Knutsford Pumpkin Path returned, attracting hundreds of families on Friday 31st October.

Organised by Knutsford Town Council, the event featured a pumpkin trail through the town centre, live performances from Knutsford Beats, and dance entertainment from SMB Dance. Wallwood hosted themed character entertainment, while local businesses offered sweet treats and decorated shopfronts to enhance the spooky atmosphere.

Sharing her enthusiasm for the event,Laura Christie, co-owner of Linden Stores, one of the evening’s sponsors, said: “We were delighted to take part in the Pumpkin Path 2025, it’s an amazing community event run by the town council which brings a real buzz to Knutsford and smiles to lots of little faces! As residents as well as business owners, it’s great to see the town so busy!”

Echoing that sentiment, Lucinda Hinton from King Street Dental, another sponsor for the event commented: “It’s events like the Pumpkin Path which make Knutsford special – we’re very proud to have sponsored an occasion to bring our community together and create a safe place for our children to have fun. Who knew that free toothpaste and vampire fangs would be so popular!!”

Reflecting on the success of the event, Laura Phillipson, Events Manager at Knutsford Town Council, added: “Knutsford Pumpkin Path is one of the town’s most popular events. It was wonderful to see so many families taking part, enjoying the costumes, and appreciating the fantastic displays created by our local businesses.”

The event formed part of Knutsford’s dynamic calendar of community activities and was kindly sponsored by Travel Bag, Linden Stores, and King Street Dental. For details of upcoming events, visit www.discoverknutsford.com or follow @discoverknutsford on Facebook and Instagram.

Kevin Jardine and May Lynch

Prevent Breast Cancer Quiz Night at Knutsford Market Hall

Knutsford Market Hall is gearing up to host a fun-filled fundraising quiz night on Wednesday, December 3rd, in aid of charity Prevent Breast Cancer. The evening promises great entertainment, delicious food, and the chance to win fantastic prizes, all while supporting a crucial cause.

The quiz will be hosted by local quiz master Kevin Jardine with food and drink available from Thai Kitchen and raffle prizes to win from a selection of local businesses including Roberta Beauty Redefined, Detaljer, Knutsford Olde Sweet Shoppe, Hot Cocoa, The White Orchid Floral Boutique and Cottons Hotel and Spa. Thai Kitchen will also be contributing a percentage of profits from the evening to this worthwhile charity.

Kevin will put teams’ general knowledge to the test. Attendees can look forward to enjoying tasty food and drinks from Thai Kitchen, which is also generously contributing a percentage of its profits from the evening directly to the charity.

The newly refurbished Market Hall will open its doors to quiz-goers at 7:00 PM, with the quiz kicking off promptly at 7:30 PM.

Tickets are priced at £20 and cover a team of four or six people A small prize awaits the winning team!

Kerri Reece, a local resident and representative for Prevent Breast Cancer, shared her excitement: “We are really looking forward to everyone attending the quiz night, having fun, enjoying the Thai food, and of course, raising money for this worthwhile charity. All monies raised on the night will go directly to the charity.”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager, added, “We are delighted to host the quiz in aid of Prevent Breast Cancer and look forward to a great, festive evening here at the Market Hall.”

Prevent Breast Cancer is the only UK charity committed solely to predicting and preventing breast cancer. For more information about their work, visit: https://preventbreastcancer.org.uk/

Tickets can be purchased via: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/pbc/1918368

North West based Prevent Breast Cancer is the only UK charity committed solely to predicting and preventing breast cancer. Further information can be found here –

A christmas wreath hanging on the edge of a christmas market stall

Christmas in Knutsford Returns with Extended Festive Season for 2025

Knutsford is preparing to sparkle once again as the town’s much-loved festive celebrations return this November — with a few exciting changes for 2025!

This year, the Christmas season kicks off slightly earlier, with the Christmas Light Switch-On and Santa Parade taking place on Saturday 15th November, two weeks ahead of the Christmas Market weekend.

The change aims to extend the Christmas shopping period for Knutsford’s town centre businesses and help manage the high visitor numbers both events attract.

Christmas Light Switch-On & Parade – Saturday 15th November | 4pm – 7pm

Festivities begin at 4pm in Canute Place, where Silk FM will host an evening of live entertainment featuring local school choirs and musicians. Families can also enjoy the CAFT Christmas Grotto and a small selection of food and drink traders offering seasonal treats.

At 6pm, the Santa Parade will set off from outside The Lost & Found, travelling along Princess Street towards Canute Place. The evening will reach its festive peak at 6.30pm, when the Mayor of Knutsford, joined by special guests, will switch on the town’s beautiful Christmas lights to officially mark the start of the season.

Knutsford Christmas Market – Saturday 29th November |12 noon – 5pm, Sunday 30th November  | 11am – 4pm

The ever-popular Knutsford Christmas Market returns for a full weekend of festive shopping and family fun. This year’s market will be bigger than ever, with traders spread across Princess Street, King Street, and Silk Mill Street.

Visitors can browse a wonderful variety of artisanal food and drink, handmade crafts, and unique gift ideas from some of Cheshire’s finest independent makers. Live entertainment will fill the streets throughout the weekend, and Silk Mill Street will host an array of hot food traders, perfect for grabbing a festive bite while enjoying the atmosphere.

Santa’s Grotto – Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November

Bring the magic of Christmas to life for your little ones with a visit to Santa’s Grotto, kindly hosted by Knutsford Methodist Church.

  • Saturday: 11am – 3pm
  • Sunday: 12pm – 3pm

Children will receive a special Christmas treat.

Knutsford Town Council invites everyone to experience the charm of the town during this extended festive period. From the dazzling lights and live music to artisan shopping and seasonal street food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For full event details and updates, visit www.discoverknutsford.com/events or follow @KnutsfordTownCouncil and @DiscoverKnutsford on social media.

Knutsford Remembrance Sunday

Knutsford Town Council and the Knutsford Branch of the Royal British Legion invite the community to join the services of remembrance on Sunday 9th November.

The programme for the day is as follows:

09:00-10:00       Community Remembrance Church Service at St Johns Church

10:10-10:25       Parade assembles at King St Car Park

10:25-10:45       Parade to Centennial War Memorial

10:55-11:35       Service at the Centennial War Memorial

12:00-12:25       Service at the Crosstown War Memorial

12:45-13:05       Service at the Tatton Park Parachute Regiment Memorial

13:30-13:35       Town Mayor to lay wreath at Centennial Place Memorial Garden

The church service at St John’s will take place before the parade and the parade will march to the Centennial War Memorial.

The whole community is welcome to join any or all parts of the day.

The principal wreath laying will take place at the Centennial War Memorial and organisations wishing to lay a wreath are requested to advise Gemma Jackson, Civic Events Officer, in advance by emailing gemma.jackson@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk. Only those who have notified the Civic Events Officer in advance will be called up to lay a wreath on the day.

After the main services of remembrance, the Town Mayor will also lay a wreath in the Centennial Place memorial garden at 1:30pm.

A Character of Frankenstein's Monster high fiving a pumkin path explorer!

Knutsford Pumpkin Path Returns!

Get ready for a spooktacular night like no other! Knutsford’s favourite family-friendly Halloween event, Pumpkin Path, is back! Join us on Friday, 31st October from 4pm to 7pm as King Street transforms into a Halloween haven, filled with fun, excitement, and sweets!

This year’s event promises to be as fun filled as ever, with live performances to capture the imagination and entertain the crowds. Be sure not to miss out on a show from the amazing SMB Dance who will be bringing captivating choreography to life with a Halloween twist. The amazing Knutsford Beats Choir will be serenading visitors with haunting harmonies that are sure to get everyone in the Halloween spirit.

Of course, the much-loved Pumpkin Path is the heart of the night. Families can pick up an entry form and follow the map to discover 12 hidden pumpkins nestled along the streets. Each one is marked with a letter, spelling Trick or Treat but first you need to find the shop.

Don’t forget to also keep your eyes peeled for some special characters along the way, who will bring the streets to life with fun interactions that are perfect for all ages!

As ever a visit to Wallwood is a must where you can spot Minecraft Steve, Frankenstein, Mickey, and Minnie. These child friendly characters will also be wondering around the streets so keep your eyes peeled and don’t forget to take a picture.

While the event is free to enter, a voluntary donation of £1 per child would be warmly welcomed to help support the event. Entry forms will be available from Knutsford Olde Sweet Shoppe and from the welcome desks along King Street. The event is organised by Knutsford Town Council and generously sponsored by Travel Bag, Linden Stores and King Street Dental Practice.

Ray Balderstone, Manager of Princess Street based Travelbag said, “”We are absolutely thrilled to once again partner with Knutsford Town Council to sponsor the annual Pumpkin Path. This event is a fantastic tradition that brings so much joy and spooky fun to families across the town. As a local business, Travelbag Knutsford loves being part of initiatives that truly enrich our community, and we can’t wait to see all the creative costumes and happy faces on the night!”

So, mark your calendars, gather your costumes, and join us for an unforgettable night of Halloween magic, live performances, and family fun. We can’t wait to see you on the Pumpkin Path!

Event Information

To find out more about the event, visit www.discoverknutsford.com or email enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk, or alternatively you can call 01565 653 929.

Road Closures

To enable the Pumpkin Path to take place safely, road closures will be in place as follows:

King Street at the junction with Church Walk to the junction with Drury Lane

All affected residents have been contacted directly

Tabley Hill Chapel. Pink and red flowers in the foreground with the chapel standing proud in the sun behind.

Tabley Hill Chapel Open Day and Cemetery Tour

Tabley Hill Chapel at Knutsford Cemetery is opening its doors for its first ever open day – and you’re invited!

From 10 am to 12 pm on Saturday 11th October, we’re giving you the perfect opportunity to see inside this incredible venue as well as finding out more about Knutsford Cemetery. Our friendly staff will be on hand to show you around the chapel and answer any questions you may have about hiring it for weddings, funerals and other events. The team has a wealth of knowledge from wedding logistics to memorial maintenance and can guide you through the important steps of creating a special event.

Tucked away on the outskirts of Knutsford, the Grade II listed Edwardian chapel boasts beautiful stained-glass windows, a light and versatile octagonal central room and a range of facilities – including a modern kitchenette for basic refreshments.

During the day, local historian Jenny Collis will also be offering a tour of the cemetery, sharing history and insight into some of the interesting people at rest in the grounds. The tour will run from 10.30 am to approximately 11.15 am.  No need to book but please arrive for 10.15 am.

Jeanette Hine, Corporate Support Manager at Knutsford Town Council commented “This is a fantastic opportunity to witness and learn more about one of Knutsford’s most intimate venues. The chapel is an important place which serves our community members as they honour important milestones, as well as providing space for informal occasions.”

The chapel is available to host weddings, funerals and many other events including community and commercial uses.

For further information about the open day and general enquiries, please contact Georgia Padfield or Jo Arch at enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk.

If you’d like to learn more about hiring the space, please visit https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/chapel.