Town Council News | Knutsford Town Council

3Feb2026

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.

16Jan2026

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 14^th 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 13^th February 2026.

15Jan2026

Giovannis now part of the Knutsford voucher family

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.

Photo – Sandra Curties of Knutsford Town Council

13Jan2026

Changes at Knutsford Market Hall

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.

Simon and Melanie Naylor of Cheshire Party Store

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.

Pop-ups can apply to trade via https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/market-hall/trade

Photo Credit – Knutsford Town Council and Lee Boswell Photography

24Dec2025

Feedback invited on Christmas Events

Knutsford Town Council is inviting residents and visitors to share their views on this year’s Christmas events as part of a survey aimed at improving festive celebrations in 2026.

The survey is open now and seeks input from all those who attended this year’s Christmas festivities, whether that was the Knutsford Christmas Lights Switch On, Knutsford Christmas Market or the Knutsford Community Crib Service.

The feedback will help the Council better understand what worked well, how the new event layout and separate dates were received, and where improvements can be made to enhance the visitor experience in future years.

Town Clerk, Adam Keppel-Green said “Our Christmas events are an important part of Knutsford’s festive calendar and a highlight for many families and visitors. Hearing directly from those who joined us this season will ensure we continue to develop and refine these celebrations in ways that reflect the wishes of our community and visitors alike.”

As a thank-you for taking part, respondents will be entered into a prize draw to win a £20 Knutsford Voucher, redeemable at a range of shops and restaurants in the town centre.

The survey closes on 16^th January 2026 and it can be accessed at www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/survey

Knutsford Town Council is committed to listening and responding to the views of the community, helping to make Knutsford an even better place to live, work and visit.

22Dec2025

Your feedback could win you £50 of Knutsford vouchers!

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.

10Dec2025

Volunteers are celebrating success from this year’s North West in Bloom Awards

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.

From left to right Jackie Edwards, Sikha Dutton, Kevin Griffiths, Paul Jackson, Sue Galloway, Roger Brown, Christine Skinner — 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.”

9Dec2025

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 2^nd Place and 3^rd 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

3Dec2025

Festive cheer at Knutsford’s new-look Christmas Markets

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.

Mereside Brass Band playing outside 60 King Street at the Christmas Markets.

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.

18Nov2025

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.

The Grinch and Elf on the Shelf at Knutsford Light Switch On

Santa and an Elf starting the parade. — The Grinch and Elf on the Shelf at Knutsford Light Switch On

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.

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