Events | Knutsford Town Council

20Aug2025

Knutsford buzzes with art and alfresco dining

Knutsford was a hive of creativity on August 17th as the town hosted its inaugural Paint Knutsford and Young Artist of the Year competitions. Over 30 professional and amateur artists turned Knutsford into an open-air studio, capturing iconic buildings, green spaces, and streetscapes.

Sponsored by King Street Dental Practice, the event culminated in an exhibition at Knutsford Market Hall where a judging panel, including Knutsford Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley and gallery owner Tony Turner, selected the winners.

Jill Aspen took first place for her stunning painting of the moor lake. Jill said, “What a lovely day spent painting in the sunshine. There were so many fantastic artists there, and I met lots of lovely Knutsford folk. To win first place just topped off a fabulous day. Thanks so much to everyone involved. I can’t wait for Paint Knutsford 2026”

Second place went to Liz Wheeldon-Wyatt for her illustration of the newly opened Stolen Lamb restaurant.

Jill Aspen – Overall winner of Paint Knutsford

Liz Wheeldon Wyatt – 2nd place — Jill Aspen – Overall winner of Paint Knutsford

Tony Tuner owner of The Next Door Gallery said, “I was delighted to be involved in the first Paint Knutsford. What a lovely event. I was so impressed with the range of entries from both the adult entrants and young artists – particularly in the 12-17 years category. The level of skill was outstanding. A huge congratulations to the winners and everyone who took part. Roll on 2026”

Rosie Birchill – 2nd place 12-17 — Jenna Reid – 1st place 12-17 category

The next generation of artists was also celebrated in the Young Artist of the Year competition, drawing a wide range of entries from local budding artists. Edie Joe Fuller (age 7) won the 4-11 years category, with Richard Taberner (age 6) as the runner-up. In the 12-17 years category, two Knutsford Academy students took the top spots: Jenna Reid in first place and Rosie Birchall as runner-up.

Alfresco dining also took place on King Street creating a festival like atmosphere in the town.

Wallop, Mowgli, Piccolinos, Gusto, Smokehouse and Cellar, Rose and Crown, Patrick’s Irish pub, and Morgan Edwards all offered outdoor seating allowing visitors and residents to enjoy the glorious weather

Alfresco Dining by Smokehouse and Cellar — Alfresco Dining by Rose and Crown

Andy Vo, manager of the Smokehouse and Cellar said, “Al Fresco dining has become an established feature in Knutsford’s Summer social scene. It provides an outdoor festival atmosphere for diners and drinkers alike. This year was no exception, and the glorious weather drew in many locals and visitors from further afield.”

David Sims, owner of the Rose and Crown said, “What a day for alfresco dining! The Rose and Crown team had a wonderful day greeting regulars and visitors alike. The Paint Knutsford event was an additional draw and the atmosphere in town was amazing!”

Laura Phillipson, Events Manager at Knutsford Town Council said, “The feedback from the artists, our King Street hospitality and visitors to the town was amazing. Watching the artists in action and their painting unfold was such a unique experience. Congratulations to our winning entrants and everyone who took part. We hope to repeat this event next year and hopefully the sun will also make a return visit!”

All entries have been uploaded to social media for an additional public vote which closes on 26^th August. The entries can be viewed on Knutsford Town Council’s website and Facebook pages.

Cast your vote on the following link – https://form.jotform.com/252312585494360

Garry Hartley painting The White Bear — Patrick Jones painting by the Moor

Images by Knutsford Photographic Society.

For further information on our events programme, visit www.discoverknutsford.co.uk or @DiscoverKnutsford on our social channels. Enquiries can be sent to enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk or call 01565 653 929.

19Aug2025

Fun for all the family at Family Fest

The sun was shining on Sunday 10^th August for the third Knutsford Family Fest. Families flocked to the town to take advantage of the variety of family friendly activities across shops, restaurants, and community spaces in Knutsford town centre.

Attendees had options to start the day with a choice of family friendly yoga sessions from Sataya Sanctuary, a lively music class from Popcat’s Music Time or a phonics class with Robot Reg!

Children also had a chance to stitch their own souvenir in Knutsford Heritage Centre after viewing their stunning Millennium Tapestry.

The Knutsford Fire Service was in attendance outside the Lost and Found showing children around the fire engine. There was some wonderful food and drink on Minshull Street courtesy of Linden Stores and Jordy’s Pizza and also outside The Lost and Found. Both were bustling with diners enjoying the chilled-out atmosphere and sunshine. There was also a paella party at everyone’s favourite Spanish restaurant Evuna.

Knutsford Olde Sweet Shoppe hosted face painting sessions and a fancy dress competition judged by Knutsford Town Mayor Councillor Bryan Hartley. There was also a well-attended children’s disco at Knutsford Market Hall which also saw Bahattin of The Market Café demonstrate some Greek dancing!

The sponsor of the event, Cottons had a pop-up promoting their hotel alongside a competition to win a spa day for two. Ian Gatley, Cotton’s Sales Manager, said, “We loved taking part in our first family fest. It was lovely to see so many people outside in the sunshine enjoying themselves. Thanks to everyone who came to visit us and congratulations to the winner of our spa competition.”

Sandra Curties, Town Central Manager at Knutsford Town Council said; “We were delighted with the response to our third family Fest. The sun shone and children of all ages had a wonderful time. Thanks to everyone who collaborated on this event, we can’t wait for Family Fest 2026. It was also wonderful to see our refurbished market hall come to life with an amazing children’s disco tunes from DJ Pete Deane!”

Photo Credit – Charlie Norbury Photography

31Jul2025

Family Fest returns to town

The third Family Fest is returning to Knutsford once again this summer.

Family Fest takes place across the town’s shops, restaurants, and community spaces and sees Knutsford Town Council collaborating with local businesses to organise a day jam packed with activities.

The event takes place on Sunday 10^th August and is kindly sponsored by Cottons Hotel and Spa.

Families can start the day gently with a choice of four yoga sessions with Satya Sanctuary, a phonics session with Robot Reg at Charlton Lodge, and enjoy a paella party at Evuna with children receiving a free soft drink and ice cream! Families can then finish the day with a children’s disco with dancing, games and prizes hosted by DJ Pete Deane at Knutsford Market Hall. The disco can be booked by visiting https://www.discoverknutsford.com/product/family-fest-childrens-disco/ popping into the Council Offices on Toft Road or calling the town council on 01565 653929 to make payment and reserve your slot.

For the creatives, Knutsford Olde Sweet shop will be holding a fancy dress competition, with prizes for each entrant.

We are also hoping for an appearance from Knutsford Fire Service (outside the Lost and Found) and a police van at Minshull Street, pending any emergencies.

This year’s event also coincides with alfresco dining on Minshull Street with Linden Stores co-hosting a pizza party (including live music) with Jordy’s Pizza.

Ian Gatley of Cottons said “We love being part of the community in the town and are delighted to sponsor Knutsford’s third FamilyFest. We look forward to meeting visitors and residents at our pop-up outside the Lost and Found and good luck to those entering our prize draw to win a spa day for two!”

Activities include:

Face painting and fancy-dress competition at Knutsford Olde Sweet Shop
Paella party at Evuna
Four family friendly yoga sessions at Satya Sanctuary
Phonics with Robot Reg at the Tatton Room in Curzon
Children’s Disco with DJ Pete Deane at Knutsford Market Hall
PopCat’s Music Time at Knutsford Market Hall
Linden Stores hosting an alfresco pizza party with Jordy’s Pizza including live music.
Stitch your own souvenir at Knutsford Heritage Centre
Cotton’s Hotel and Spa pop-up and prize draw
Fire Engine Fun outside the Lost and Found

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager said “We are delighted to see the return of FamilyFest. Last year’s event proved extremely popular with families. We’ve pulled together a great programme with lots of variety so hopefully there is something for everyone. Just collect a flyer from local shops, the library and market hall, visit www.discoverknutsford.com and book any activities where required and just enjoy the atmosphere. Like everyone else we are praying for the sun to shine!”

29Jul2025

Paint Knutsford just under three weeks away

If you’re visiting Knutsford this summer, Paint Knutsford! is a must-see artistic event taking place on Sunday 17 August 2025, from 9.30 am to 5pm. Organised by Knutsford Town Council and kindly sponsored by King Street Dental, this free-to-attend open-air painting festival brings art to life in the historic town centre.

Over 30 Artists—both professionals and amateurs—will set up outdoor ‘studios’ around the town, painting live throughout the day and a trail map will be available guiding you to each artists location so you can watch creations unfold in real time. The finished artwork will be displayed in Knutsford Market Hall from 4:30pm where a judging panel will decide who takes home the prize.

As part of the festivities, Knutsford Market Hall will also exhibit a special display of artwork by Knutsford’s budding young talents with judging taking place at 3.30pm by Knutsford Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley and local gallery owner Tony Turner.

Speaking about the event, Tony said “It’s always difficult to judge individual artwork but initial impact of colour and narrative play a huge part for me. I’m looking forward to this event tremendously and seeing all the artist’s work and their enthusiasm.”

Alongside the event, Alfresco Dining will be in place along King Street allowing visitors to watch the painting whilst enjoying the local Knutsford hospitality.

Maps of the artists locations can be picked up at Council offices and various town centre businesses.

28Jul2025

LOL Cheshire event to support Town Mayor’s Charities

The Mayor of Knutsford, Cllr Bryan Hartley and Paul Langley of LOL Cheshire are excited to announce a special fundraising comedy night to be held at Knutsford Little Theatre. This collaboration is now into it’s second year, with tickets selling out super-fast in 2024.

The LOL X Mayor of Knutsford Comedy Night takes place on 19^th September at Knutsford Little Theatre with doors opening at 7:15pm, featuring some of the finest comedians from LOL Cheshire, including MC Dom Woodward, Joe Zalias and Gavin Webster.

Paul Langley says “After the success of the event in 2024, I am thrilled to be supporting the Town Mayor again at LOL X The Mayor. You can expect not only a brilliant night of stand up from the very comedians around but also raising vital funds for the Knutsford in Bloom and East Cheshire Hospice.

Civic Events officer, Gemma Jackson “Last years event was hilarious, my face hurt from laughing so much. The event was such a success due to Paul and the volunteers at Knutsford Little Theatre. I would like to thank them for supporting the mayors fundraising efforts”.

Tickets are priced at £15, with all proceeds going to the Mayor’s chosen charities, East Cheshire Hospice and Knutsford in Bloom. They can be purchased online at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/socialpromotions.

Cllr Bryan Hartley added “I encourage you to buy your tickets early, as this event is expected to sell out quickly”

For more information, please contact civic events officer Gemma Jackson by email gemma.jackson@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk or by telephoning 01565 653929

25Jul2025

Knutsford Market Hall sponsors Yoga in the Park

Knutsford Market Hall is sponsoring Satya Sanctuary’s August Yoga in the Park session. These free sessions take place on The Moor and the whole community is welcome.

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager, said, “Satya Sanctuary opened last September and has quickly become part of the fabric of Knutsford. The market hall’s ethos is ‘a vibrant hub for local life’ so sponsoring this event was an easy decision. We are pleased we have enabled this community initiative to be free to all”

Charlotte Montgomery, founder of Satya Sanctuary said, “We are delighted Knutsford Market Hall is sponsoring August’s Yoga in the Park. At Satya we are passionate about bringing the benefits of yoga to as wider audience as possible. These free sessions are suitable for all, just bring a mat or towel and enjoy the session.”

August’s session will take place on August 24^th August at 3.30pm on The Moor. Although the sessions are free pre-booking is essential. You can book via https://www.satyasanctuary.co.uk/book-a-class or download Satya’s app.

Knutsford Market Hall is located on Silk Mill Street, Knutsford and is open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Makers Market Sunday from 9am to 4pm

Satya Sanctuary is located on Unit 6a, 44-46 King Street, Knutsford and offers a range of classes throughout the week. www.satyasanctuary.co.uk

4Jul2025

Knutsford Young Artist of the Year 2025

Knutsford Young Artist of the Year was first held in 2022 to showcase young local artistic talent. Once again, we’re inviting young local artists to unleash their full artistic potential, whether that be in the form of paintings, digital art, ceramics, illustrations or something else!

There are two categories:

Junior artist: 4 to 11 years old
Young artist: 12 to 18 years old

The competition is open for entries until 18^th July.

A judging panel will shortlist several entries, who will then be invited to a special awards evening at Knutsford Market Hall on Sunday 17^th August. The artists’ work will be displayed in the newly renovated Market Hall for the evening, and a winner and runner up in each category will be awarded and receive a prize.

To enter a valid submission in the competition, you must:

Live in Knutsford, or
Study at a Knutsford school

To enter the competition, please deliver your submission by 5pm on Friday 18^th July, to:

Knutsford Town Council Offices, Toft Road, Knutsford, WA16 6TA. Entries should be accompanied by a piece of paper recording the entrant’s name, age and address and contact information for their parent/guardian.

The judging panel will then shortlist their favourite entries and those shortlisted will be invited to the awards presentation evening, which will be held on Sunday 17^th August from 5.30pm.

For more information, please contact enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk or call 01565 653 929.

30Jun2025

Knutsford Music Festival Success!

The 2025 Knutsford Music Festival, organised by Knutsford Town Council, has concluded with resounding success, drawing music enthusiasts from across the region and beyond. Held from June 5 to 8, the festival featured an eclectic lineup spanning folk, blues, gospel, and pop, transforming Knutsford into a vibrant hub of live music and community engagement.

The folk program, curated by BBC Radio presenter Mark Radcliffe, returned for its eighth year showcasing artists such as Katherine Priddy and Rusty’s Wild Rovers. Performances took place at St John’s Church and Knutsford Little Theatre, captivating audiences with intimate and heartfelt music.

Music on the Moor took place on Saturday 7^th June. This free, open-air event celebrated local talent, offering four hours of live music, craft workshops, and circus performances. Despite challenging weather conditions, attendees maintained high spirits, demonstrating the community’s enthusiasm and support.

Festival organisers as the town council have already began planning for the 2026 edition and would love to know what you would like to see included next year! Events Manager Laura Phillipson expressed gratitude to sponsors and attendees, stating, “A huge thanks to everyone who got involved and supported this year’s events, especially to the ticket buyers and attendees of Music on The Moor. The weather was against us, but the crowd were in great spirits.”

Local businesses reported increased foot traffic and sales during the festival weekend, underscoring the event’s positive economic impact on the town.

The Knutsford Town Council is committed to building on this year’s success, with plans to enhance the festival experience in 2026. Organisers are seeking feedback from attendees and residents to ensure the continued growth and relevance of the festival. Suggestions and comments can be directed to Laura Phillipson at laura.phillipson@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

Photographs by Sadie Whitrigg @Whittriggsadie.

16Jun2025

New Town Centre Shopping Map!

The 2025/6 Knutsford Town Centre map has been published in time for the summer season.

The unique illustrated map is designed to give a summary of what Knutsford has to offer, highlighting its markets, cafes and restaurants as well as the diverse retail offering. The leaflet also lists key town events for the coming year.

The map is supported with adverts from a selection of Knutsford’s shops, hotels, restaurants, and bars. It is distributed to key locations in the town centre including the railway station, Tatton Park and Knutsford Heritage Centre and is used as a promotion tool throughout the year at events including the Cheshire Show and the ever-busy Knutsford Christmas Markets. The map will also be distributed to tourist information offices across the county. The production of the map has been fully funded by local businesses through the advertising.

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager said, “We are delighted to publish a new edition of the town centre map. It is a key marketing tool for the town for residents and visitors alike. A huge thanks to those business who support the production of the map, many of whom are repeat advertisers”

12May2025

Flash Fashion returns to the Catwalk this Saturday!

The wait is over – Flash Fashion Knutsford is back this Saturday 17^th May bringing style and excitement to the town as independent boutiques and fashion shops present their Spring/ Summer collections at The Lost & Found.

Organised by Knutsford Town Council this much-loved, daylong event also features pop-ups and in-store experiences throughout town. The event kicks off at 11am at The Lost & Found with a fashion show spotlighting the latest seasonal trends from local boutiques. The show will be introduced by event sponsor and Knutsford based stylist Laura Davies and compered by ITV presenter and owner of Dexter & Jones, Katie Rickitt.

Launched in 2019, Flash Fashion has become a highlight of the local calendar, celebrating the creativity and flair of Knutsford’s independent fashion scene. Last year’s event drew crowds in full force with this weekend’s event expecting a similar response.

Participating stores include

Kanoa Living
Cocaranti
Redress at Dexter and Jones
Blossom Boutique
Paris Ladies Boutique
Bare Necessities
Willow Boutiques
Chalk 33
Milania Boutique
Roberta Beauty Redefined
Zapatos
Clare and Illingworth
L ’Atelier London
Lanigan and Hulme
The British Red Cross
The Edit
Satya Sanctuary
Children’s Adventure Farm

Laura Philipson, Town Event Manager at Knutsford Town Council said “We are so excited to see Flash Fashion return to Knutsford this weekend. There is such a buzz in town that day and it’s a brilliant chance to visit Knutsford and discover the independent shopping scene”

Roberta Dyer from Roberta Beauty Re-Defined said “I love this event. I take part in the fashion show as a model which is so much fun! Then afterwards I am offering beauty treatment tasters in both Claire & Illingworth and Willow Boutiques. It is certainly a day not to be missed in Knutsford” For further details on the event follow Discover Knutsford on both Facebook and Instagram. More details can be found at www.discoverknutsford.com/events.

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