Left to right Mayoress Christine Banks, Knutsford Town Mayor Colin Banks, Right Honourable Esther McVey MP, Sir Philip Davis, stood in the newly opened Market Hall

Knutsford Market Hall Unveils Stunning Refurbishment

The much-loved Knutsford Market Hall officially re-opened its doors on May 10th after a significant refurbishment, its first major upgrade since the 1980s.

The revitalised space, part funded by the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund has created a brighter, warmer, and more inviting experience for traders, visitors, and residents.

Local contractor Built by Mode was contracted to deliver the programme of improvement works which included removing the old, suspended ceiling, levelling the floor and installing a new toilet, storeroom and kitchenette. All existing stall structures were removed and a new suite of permanent stalls created around the edge of the space, leaving the centre of the hall for pop-up traders and events.

Re-opening the market was one of the last duties carried out by outgoing Town Mayor, Cllr Colin Banks.  Colin said, “I was delighted to formally re-open the market hall. It was wonderful to see the traders in their new stalls and welcome both familiar and new faces back to the market. The market is now a much more welcoming space offering customers a varied shopping experience in the heart of our town. Please shop small and local.”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager, said, “We are delighted that the market has re-opened and is now a warm more comfortable space for our traders and customers alike.  Over the coming months, we hope to host a number of additional pop-ups and events, and we urge everyone to visit the hall and discover what is new.”

The newly re-opened market hall welcomes new ventures such as Polka Bakery, Thai Kitchen and Cheshire Party Store. These have joined familiar faces such as The Market Café, Market Hall Barber, Slipped Discs, Market Hall Butcher and Deli, and Knutsford Mobile.

Left to Right Nok Waugh Mina Ponpuak Amelia Giblin Bee Gibb Of Thai Kitchen
a Corner of the Market hall showing Mike Oldham and Mike Brown of Market Hall Butcher
Bahattin Atar of The Market Café

Cheshire Party Store is the new venture of Simon and Melanie Naylor of the Knutsford Art and Stationery Shop.

Sandra added “The Town Council is proud to provide the Market Hall as a space to support small businesses. By offering competitive rents, the market hall provides a valuable platform for businesses to grow without the high overheads of a high street location. We invite anyone interested in trading with us to get in touch.”

The central section of the market can also be hired by small businesses offering a variety of choice to the consumer. During the launch this space was utilised by Flower and Twine Co, The Kokedama Llama, A Passion for Learning, Made with Love by Lise, and Hot Cocoa. Hot Cocoa hopes to have regular pop-ups in the market hall pending her move to new premises on King Street. The hall can also be hired for events, community and interest groups outside of trading hours.

The Town Council is currently looking for a new fruit and veg stall operator as Heathfields, who previously traded from the space, decided not to return to the new market hall.

Knutsford Market Hall is open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 9am.

If you wish to trade at the market hall you can apply here – https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/market-hall/trade

A group of ladies are stood posing and smiling in colourful dresses after the fashion show.

Flash Fashion returns to the Catwalk this Saturday!

The wait is over – Flash Fashion Knutsford is back this Saturday 17th 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.

Staff of SIX stood behind the bar of new restaurant smiling.

Six joins Taste Knutsford food tours

Six Knutsford, the vibrant new hospitality venue located in Silk Mill Street, has announced its participation in both the Taste Knutsford food tour and the Knutsford Voucher scheme.

Opened in September by the Mitchell family in the former Freemason’s building, Six Knutsford has quickly established itself as a popular addition to the town’s thriving hospitality scene. The venue boasts a diverse offering, including a curated selection of craft beer, an impressive range of cocktails and wines, and regular live music nights. Its recently developed outside space features an outdoor bar and a private room available for private hire.

Steve Mitchell, owner of Six Knutsford, commented, “We’ve been overwhelmed by the warm welcome we’ve received since opening in September and already feel like a valued part of the Knutsford community.

The Knutsford Voucher scheme is a fantastic initiative and, importantly, comes at no cost to our business. We encourage anyone who has received or purchased vouchers to pop in and enjoy our offerings, perhaps for a delicious bite to eat during their shopping trip!”

Six Knutsford’s contribution to the Taste Knutsford food tour will be a selection of their popular small plate menu. Steve added, “This is another excellent tourism initiative for the town. Knutsford truly is the culinary capital of mid-Cheshire, and we are excited to participate in our first food tour.”

The Knutsford Voucher scheme, launched in 2020, currently has 45 participating businesses, providing a convenient way for locals and visitors to support the town centre. Taste Knutsford has been delighting tourists and residents since 2018 with its monthly guided food tours. These tours, lasting approximately three hours, showcase a variety of independent eateries and provide a taste of Knutsford’s diverse culinary landscape.

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Six Knutsford to both the voucher scheme and Taste Knutsford. The voucher scheme complements any individual voucher programmes our businesses may run and offers another fantastic way to experience the diverse retail and hospitality offerings within our town centre. Taste Knutsford provides a wonderful introduction to our independent restaurants, bars, and cafes, and we are confident that Six will quickly become a much-loved stop for our guests.”

Any Knutsford based small regional or independent hospitality venue can take part in the tour. If you wish book a tour, please visit www.tasteknutsford.co.uk  Private tours for 8 or more can also be arranged.

A group of people stood in front of a building.

Flash Fashion Knutsford returns this spring

The highly anticipated Flash Fashion Knutsford is set to return this year on Saturday 17th May as Knutsford independent boutiques and fashion shops collaborate to showcase their Spring/Summer 25 collections in a fashion show at The Lost & Found.

Organised by Knutsford Town Council, this day-long event that also features pop-ups and events in stores, started in 2019 to highlight the wonderful collection of independent fashion retailers in Knutsford. The event has gained a loyal following in the past few years with last year’s fashion show at full capacity.

The day will kick off at 11am in Lost and Found with a fashion show featuring the latest looks from local boutiques, introduced by the event sponsor and Knutsford based stylist Laura Davies and compered by ITV presenter and owner of Dexter & Jones, Katy Rickitt. Attendees can then browse the shops and enjoy a variety of complimentary services in store including on-hand beauty treatments, a glass of fizz and exclusive offers.

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
  • British Red Cross
  • The Edit
  • Satya Sanctuary

Michelle Samsa from Willow Boutiques said; “We are excited to be part of another fabulous Flash Fashion event. The fashion show at The Lost & Found always has such an amazing atmosphere. And the shop is always buzzing afterwards.”

Michelle continues “We can’t wait for the pop-up instore from Roberta Beauty Redefined where Roberta will join us from 3pm – 5pm offering revitalising Dermalogica hand massages.”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager at Knutsford Town Council said “This event has gained quite the following over the years and we are excited to bring it back for 2025. The shops will have some fabulous Spring/ Summer collections instore so this day will be the perfect outing for customers to get inspired, plan their summer wardrobes and go shopping!”

Leaflets will be available from shops and eateries around Knutsford shortly to allow shoppers to plan their day. Details of the day can also be found on www.discoverknutsford.com

This event has been sponsored by Laura Davies Styling.

A group of people standing by a sign

New Town Maps installed to showcase Knutsford

Visitors to Knutsford can navigate the town with ease, thanks to the installation of new town maps reflecting the Discover Knutsford place branding. This is the latest initiative funded by UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund with the aim of promoting Knutsford to visitors.

Organised by Knutsford Town Council, the maps have been strategically placed at key locations in the town centre including the train station, bus station, Canute Place, Tatton Street car park, King Street car park, and Princess Street (outside The Lost & Found). An additional map has also been installed under the railway bridge on King Street, ensuring visitors arriving from all directions can easily find their way.

Each map features a beautifully hand-drawn illustration of Knutsford, surrounded by advertisements from local businesses. Designed by Bella Design & Marketing the maps showcase the towns rich offering of independent shops, heritage sites, restaurants, cafes, and bars and encourage visitors to make the most of their time in Knutsford.

To further enhance the visitor experience, each map includes a dispenser with free paper maps, allowing visitors to take a guide with them as they explore. These paper maps also feature information on upcoming events and attractions, keeping both tourists and residents informed about the latest happenings in the historic town.

Sandra Curties the Town Centre Manager at Knutsford Town Council said; ‘We are excited to have refreshed our town maps to reflect the new Discover Knutsford Branding. These maps serve as key touchpoints throughout the town, providing visitors with everything  they need to fully experience Knutsford’

For further information on Knutsford’s events and attractions visit www.discoverknutsford.com or follow their socials @discoverknutsford on Facebook and Instagram.

A group of people sat down listening to a woman giving a talk

Knutsford delivers an action-packed Health & Wellness Week

Knutsford’s second Health & Wellness Week was a jam-packed week showcasing a range of wellbeing services in the town centre. Organised by Knutsford Town Council, the event programme kicked off on Saturday 18th January with Re- Fresh, a fair showcasing interest and community groups. The week continued with an array of activities and sessions such as running, yoga, Pilates podiatry, life coaching, hearing and eye checks, and counselling.

Refresh was held at St John’s Church and Knutsford Methodist Church and hosted a variety of community and interest groups from 1pm to 3pm on 18th January. Both churches had a steady flow of visitors exploring the different community and volunteer groups on offer. The range was huge and included Knutsford Bake Club, Crosstown Community Orchard, Run Knutsford, and Hartford French Circle exhibiting alongside Satya Sanctuary and Knutsford Hearing Centre.

Roberta Dyer owner of Roberta Dyer Beauty Re-defined said, “”This was my first time exhibiting at Re – Fresh and it was a great opportunity to connect with the community away from the salon. Our reflexology, facials and laser hair removal consultations proved popular. I particularly enjoyed the menopause talk which I co-hosted with Helen Jones Nutrition and Dr Lydia Robertson a GP and menopause specialist”.

The week continued with a variety of wellness activities, from invigorating fitness classes and calming yoga sessions to informative talks on menopause and nutrition. Knutsford Hearing Centre offered free Hearing Health appointments, and Find Your Backbone offered free 30 minutes introduction lessons to The Alexander Technique (for back and neck pain) throughout the week.

The event was sponsored by cardiovascular specialist, Tomorrow’s Wellness which opened in June 2024 on Regent Street. During the week they offered discounts and free blood pressure check-ups.

David Willis, CEO of Tomorrow Wellness said “Health & Wellness Week has not only been a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors of Knutsford to focus on their well-being, but also a brilliant showcase of the array of health and wellness services available here in town.”

David continued “At Tomorrow Wellness we were proud to sponsor this event and had a great week offering free blood pressure checks to attendees and raising awareness of Heart & Cardiovascular Preventative Health and Wellness”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager at Knutsford Town Council said; “This was our second Health & Wellness Week organised in Knutsford and it was wonderful to see how it’s grown. Knutsford town centre has a varied health & wellness offering and this weeklong event posed as an excellent reminder of what services are on offer.

Sandra continued “If you were unable to attend and would like to learn more about a specific service please get in touch with the relevant business.”

Businesses and organisations involved include:

  • Helen Jones Nutritional Therapist
  • Sian Winslade Coaching
  • Guided Outdoor Adventures
  • Just Drop In
  • Satya Sanctuary
  • NC Health and Wellness
  • Soul Reformer
  • Elite Health
  • Wellness Webb
  • Find your Backbone
  • Nxtep Gym
  • Run Knutsford
  • Soul Reformer
  • Run Talk Walk Knutsford
  • Roberta Beauty Redefined
  • Healthwatch
  • Knutsford Hearing Centre
  • Stable Minds
  • Tomorrow Wellness
  • Parkletics
  • Clare & Illingworth
  • Cheshire Physical Therapy
The mayor and the winner of the Christmas Competition outside Knutsford Sweet shop

Knutsford Olde Sweet Shoppe awarded first place in Knutsford’s Christmas Window Competition!

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 Colin Banks and Ian toured the town centre to view all the window displays created by local businesses.

This year the winner was Knutsford Olde Sweet Shoppe with their traditional festive window that has continued to delight younger visitors to the town. Jessica Stone salon, who opened earlier this year on Church Hill, took second place for the elegant and carefully decorated window. Tatton Perk came third with their artistic Christmas illustration which was the work of a staff member Alexander Montgomery.

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 R.I Home with their ski inspired window which perfectly complimented the range of products on sale. Age UK won best charity shop window for their traditional and vintage Christmas display.

Town Mayor Cllr Colin Banks said, “The Christmas windows in the town centre this year were as impressive as ever. You can see how much effort goes into the displays with many business owners spending hours on them themselves. The shops should all be immensely proud of the displays and how they collectively create a very festive shopping experience.”

“It was a tough decision to pick the winners, so all awards were based on how much effort was put in as well as overall design and effect. A big congratulations to each winner and well done to all on their festive windows”

Three people outside Age Uk holding a certificate
A group of people outside R.I Home Knutsford
A group of people outside Tatton Perk Knutsford

A man standing by a public footpath sign

Knutsford Town Council Seeks Volunteers for Public Rights of Way Survey

Knutsford Town Council is asking for volunteers to help survey the town’s public rights of way.

Residents who enjoy walking around the area are invited to participate in the survey which will help identify any improvements needed to the town’s rights of way network of footpaths.

Volunteers will be asked to walk specific footpaths, taking photographs and complete a short condition survey. This information will help establish the conditions, general cleanliness, and accessibility of the paths, enabling the Town Council to devise a plan for future improvements in partnership with Cheshire East Council and landowners.

“Knutsford is fortunate to have several public rights of way across the town and out into the wider countryside providing attractive routes for exercise and active travel. This survey will help record their current condition and help us identify any improvements needed to the network” said Town Clerk, Adam Keppel-Green.

those interested in participating in this initiative are invited to contact Jeanette Hine at jeanette.hine@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk or contact the council offices on 01565 653929.

Discover Knutsford this Christmas

Discover Knutsford this festive season for shopping, entertainment, and celebration!

The weekend of 30th November and 1st December welcomes the Christmas cheer with Knutsford’s Christmas Markets, two days of the finest artisan market stalls. Join us for great food, drinks, and Christmas spirit. 12-7pm Saturdays 30th November and 11-4pm Sunday 1stDecember.

Also, on Saturday 30th November the stage will be set for a full day of live entertainment featuring choirs from the local primary schools, dancing performances and local singers. The stage will be presented by Silk FM who, with the help of the Mayor of Knutsford and special guests, will switch on our Christmas Lights in Canute Place at 6pm. Headlining the event will be local band The Breakfast Club.

Catch a glimpse of Santa on his sleigh at 5.30pm as he makes his was along King Street, up Minshull Street to Canute Place where he will join the Mayor on stage. The Santa parade will feature music from City of Chester Brass Band and Anna and Elsa!

Children’s Adventure Farm Trust will be raising money for their charity (CAFT) in this year’s grotto which can be found on Silk Mill Street, outside the Market Hall. The grotto will be open Saturday 30th November 12-4pm and Sunday 1st December 11-4pm. No booking necessary.

We are grateful to our brilliant sponsors this year without whom the festive weekend would not be possible. Special thanks to Savills for sponsoring the Christmas Lights switch on, Bruntwood for sponsoring the Christmas Lights, Speedy Freight who sponsor our tree and Cygnet Health for their sponsorship of the Christmas Market.

This year’s Crib Service will take place on Saturday 7th December at 4pm. Join the Mayor’s Community Crib Service where the Mayor’s chaplain will bless the town crib and Christmas carols will be sung supported by the City of Chester Brass Band. The service begins at approximately 4pm.

Remember to pick up your Discover Knutsford Christmas Gift Guide from one of our local businesses or visit the Discover Knutsford team at the Christmas markets to grab up your copy!

For further information please visit www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk or www.discoverknutsford.com or send an email to enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

Notes

Photo credits – Tessa Carrol

Enquiries – alex.molloy@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

A lady holding a Taste Knutsford Voucher

Cottons Hotel & Spa now accepts the Knutsford voucher

Cottons Hotel & Spa now accepts the Knutsford voucher

Knutsford’s own high street voucher can now be redeemed at Cotton’s Hotel & Spa along with over forty other Knutsford based businesses.

The Knutsford Voucher was launched in 2020 with the aim to offer a gift voucher exclusively for Knutsford shops that goes directly to local businesses, supporting the town’s economy.

Following a recent refresh of the voucher design, Cottons Hotel & Spa are the latest business to sign up to accept the voucher as a payment method.

Barbara Simms from Cottons Hotel & Spa said: “We are delighted to be a part of the Knutsford voucher scheme. It’s a great way to support local businesses throughout the year, if you have a voucher to spend come down and see us!”

Sandra Curties, Knutsford Town Council’s Town Centre Manager said, “The scheme is a cost-effective way to direct spend to our town’s independent shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants.”

“The vouchers come in denominations of £5, £10 or £20 and come presented in a beautiful gift card making them the perfect gift!” Sandra added.

A full list of business accepting the voucher can be found on the Town Council’s website alongside how to purchase vouchers. A broad selection of businesses accepts the vouchers including Oil Art Advisory, Flock of Arts, Detaljer, Arthur Lee, Hal Whittaker and Knutsford Olde Sweet Shoppe. Soon you will also be able to purchase them on the council’s tourism focused sister-site – www.discoverknutsford.com

Businesses in Knutsford interested in joining the voucher scheme are encouraged to contact Sandra Curties on 01565 653929. It is important to note only Knutsford based shops, excluding surrounding villages are eligible to join the voucher scheme.