People having drinks on King Street

Knutsford Alfresco Dining returns

Knutsford Alfresco Dining Returns with Summer Atmosphere in Town Centre

Knutsford town centre hosted its latest alfresco dining event on Sunday 14 June, with King Street and Silk Mill Street providing the perfect setting for a day of outdoor dining.

The sun made a welcome appearance, adding to the atmosphere as families, friends and visitors of all ages embraced the opportunity to dine together outdoors, spending the day socialising and enjoying Knutsford’s unique town centre setting.

Hospitality venues taking part included the Rose & Crown Inn, Gusto Italian, Morgan Edwards, Mowgli Street Food, Patrick’s Irish Pub, Smokehouse & Cellar, Wallop, Six Knutsford, Piccolino and Smoke Knutsford, all of which offered outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy the town centre in the summer sunshine.

The event forms part of Knutsford Town Council’s summer alfresco dining programme, which aims to support local businesses, increase footfall in the town centre and bring people together in shared community spaces.

Steve Mitchell, owner of Six, said, “We were delighted with the response to our first Alfresco event. Summer 2026 so far hasn’t been brilliant, but the weather stayed dry and we had a great turnout. It was lovely to see families enjoying themselves. Here’s to the next one.” 

Caroline Haynes, Events Manager at Knutsford Town Council, said, “Alfresco dining is a real highlight of the town’s summer programme, and it was fantastic to see so many people out enjoying the town centre on Sunday. Events like this are all about creating a welcoming atmosphere, supporting our local hospitality businesses, and giving residents and visitors a chance to experience Knutsford in a different way. We’re looking forward to the next dates in the programme.”

The summer programme continues with two further alfresco dining dates planned; Sunday 16th August, alongside Paint Knutsford, and Sunday 13th September, offering more opportunities to enjoy outdoor dining in the town centre.

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.

Photo by Knutsford Town Council – Alfresco Dining, King Street

Kanoa Living and the new town map

2026 Knutsford Town Centre Map launched ready for the summer

The 2026 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 ever-busy Knutsford Christmas Markets. The map will also be distributed to tourist information offices across the county as well as local hotels and self-catering accommodation. 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”

Popcat in Knutsford Market Hall

Knutsford Family Fest Returns for its Fourth Year

Knutsford’s popular Family Fest is returning for its fourth year this summer, expanding into a full weekend event packed with family-friendly activities.

Taking place on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th July, the festival will see Knutsford Town Council collaborate with local shops, restaurants, and community spaces to deliver a vibrant weekend of entertainment. Many of the activities across the town are free of charge and suitable for all ages.

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 jam-packed weekend of family friendly activities.

The event takes place on 11th – 12th July with a host of events including suitable for all ages with many activities free of charge.

A major highlight of the weekend is the return of Movies on the Moor, taking place on Saturday 11th July from 1pm to 9pm. Sponsored by Princess Street-based insurance specialists NFU Mutual, the open-air big screen will kick off at 2pm with a special sing-along version of Encanto. This will be followed by a ‘People’s Choice’ screening (voted for by the public, to be announced soon), before wrapping up with the blockbuster hit Jumanji at 6:30pm

Holly Duxbury, Partner of NFU Mutual, said, “We are incredibly proud to support Movies on the Moor this year. Knutsford has such a fantastic community spirit, and free, family-friendly events like this are exactly what makes our town so special to live and work in. NFU Mutual has a long history of backing the communities we serve, and helping to bring this wonderful open-air cinema experience to The Moor is a brilliant way to celebrate the summer season together. We hope everyone has a magical time and the sun shines!”

A diverse range of Knutsford businesses are opening their doors with special events, workshops, and offers across the weekend, including:

  • Face painting and sweet treats at Knutsford Olde Sweet Shoppe
  • 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
  • Family Bootcamp run by Fitism on The moor
  • Nail file and polish for children at Roberta Beauty Redefined
  • Guess the number of olives competition at the Stolen Lamb (to win a voucher)
  • Special familyfest dining offers at Piccolinos

Caroline Haynes, Events Manager added “We are delighted at the number of businesses taking part in Family Fest this year. Thanks to their incredible support, the festival has grown into a full weekend itinerary. There is truly something for everyone, so we encourage everyone to pick up a leaflet and enjoy everything Knutsford has to offer.”

Official Family Fest leaflets containing the full schedule are currently being distributed to Knutsford’s primary schools and will be available to pick up from participating town centre shops and businesses from next week

Evuna's Giant Paella
Family Yoga at Satya Sanctuary

Lady in pink cardigan holding "Knutsford Voucher Accepted Here" sticker

Historic Tabley House accepts the Knutsford voucher

One of Knutsford’s premier heritage sites, Tabley House, has officially joined the Knutsford Voucher scheme, further strengthening the town’s successful local spending initiative.

Tabley House, the former seat of the Leicester family, houses a world-class collection of art, furniture, and memorabilia. Visitors can now use the town voucher to explore the historic state rooms and visit the 17th-century St Peter’s Chapel.

The announcement coincides with the launch of the 2026 season, which features a new exhibition exploring the life of Sir John Fleming Leicester. The displays showcase Sir John’s own artistic sketches and works created during his prestigious Grand Tour of Europe as a young man.

Gill Dent, Collections Manager for Tabley House Collection said, “We are absolutely delighted to join the Knutsford Town Voucher scheme. As a venue that has been a part of this community’s history for generations, we understand the importance of keeping our local economy thriving and connected. By accepting these vouchers, we’re making it even easier for residents and visitors to enjoy everything Tabley House has to offer, from guided tours to the special events we host throughout the year. It’s a wonderful initiative that truly captures the spirit of Knutsford, and we look forward to welcoming more local voucher holders through our doors very soon.”

Launched in 2020, the voucher scheme has grown to include nearly 60 participating businesses. It offers a “shop local” alternative to major gift cards, ensuring that 100% of the value remains within the Knutsford economy. 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, tapas, toys and now the beautiful Tabley House”.

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 Knutsford Town Council L to R Khadija Jones of Graham & Brown Sue Williams from Blossom Boutique Harrison Wild of Oliver Wild Richard Clare of Clare and Illingworth Lucie Jordan of The Edit Boutique Lucy Norris of Live with Lucy

Knutsford Fashion Week

Knutsford’s extremely popular collaborative fashion event Flash Fashion returns in May for a week-long celebration of fashion under the new name Knutsford Fashion Week.

Flash Fashion started in 2019 as a one-day event showcasing the best of the town’s independent fashion retailers. Since then, it has evolved to include a catwalk show in The Lost and Found and for 2026 it has expanded into a week-long event sponsored by Laura Davies Styling.

Organised by Knutsford Town Council, the event includes one-to-one styling appointments, collaborative colour analysis with Princess Street’s Graham & Brown and Laura Davies Styling, prize draws, a sustainable style showcase at Clare and Illingworth culminating in a the much-loved and hugely popular catwalk show on Saturday 16th May.

Those taking part include –

  • Blossom Boutique
  • Graham & Brown
  • Clare & Illingworth
  • Willow Boutiques
  • Alex&er Jewellery
  • Bare Necessities
  • Zapatos
  • Kanoa Living
  • Riva Menswear
  • Oliver Wild
  • Chalk 33
  • Satya Sanctuary
  • Guinot
  • The Edit
  • Redress at Dexter & Jones
  • CAFT (Children’s Adventure Farm Trust)
  • British Red Cross
  • Milania Boutique
  • Lanigan and Hulme
  • Paris Ladies Boutique

The catwalk show finale takes place at Lost and Found on Saturday 16th May at 11am with ITV presenter Katy Rickitt of Dexter & Jones compering. 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.

Sponsor Laura Davies of Laura Davies, said “I am delighted to return as the key sponsor for Knutsford Fashion Week. Having supported this premier event since 2023, I have seen first-hand how effectively it champions our town’s vibrant independent boutiques and unique community spirit. I am particularly excited to be teaming up with Lucy Norris of Live with Lucy Norris in the lead-up to the event, where we will be showcasing the season’s must-have spring and summer trends while demonstrating how to curate a stylish wardrobe for every budget.”

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 2026 in its extended form. We would like to extend a huge thanks to Sean and the Lost and Found team for their hospitality and of course our volunteer models. The shops will have some fabulous Spring/ Summer collections instore this week will be the perfect outing for customers to get inspired, plan their summer wardrobes and go shopping!”

Leaflets showcasing every boutiques offer are now available in shops and eateries around Knutsford to allow shoppers to plan their week.

Tour guests at Morgan Edwards with George Williams, the tour guide.

Haunted Table adds more dates!

Haunted Table tours are returning to the Taste Knutsford calendar this summer with more dates, more ghosts, and more local flavour.

The Haunted Table is a unique collaboration between Knutsford Ghost Walks and Taste Knutsford. The experience weaves together a spine-chilling stroll through the town’s historic, narrow streets with curated culinary stops at some of Knutsford’s most historic venues. The tour features three culinary highlights: Morgan Edwards Fine Wines and Spirits, Evuna, and the Rose and Crown. Each venue has been selected not only for its exceptional food and drink but for its supernatural heritage, offering guests the chance to dine in buildings where the history, and residents, date back centuries.

“We are delighted with the response to the Haunted Table tours,” said George Williams, who runs Knutsford Ghost Walks. “The evening tours have proved popular with locals and visitors enjoying some gorgeous food with some ghostly walks and talks through Knutsford’s historic streets””

Sandra Curties, Knutsford’s Town Centre Manager, added, “The tour is a great alternative to our daytime tours with just the right balance of history, hauntings, and high-quality dining to satisfy both locals and visitors.”

The summer Haunted Table tours are scheduled for 24th June and 22nd July at 6:00 PM. Tickets are £45.00 per person, which includes food, drink, and the guided tour. The experience will last approximately three hours, and tour groups are limited to just 10 people to ensure an intimate and memorable experience.

You can book your spot on this unique tour by visiting www.tasteknutsford.co.uk.

George Riley of Heathfields Plants

Heathfields Plants return for the summer season

Popular local nursery Heathfields Plants are returning to Knutsford Market Hall from Saturday 18th April for the summer season.

Run by George Riley, Heathfields will be showcasing their beautiful range of locally grown plants ready to brighten up gardens across the region.

George said, “We are delighted to be back at the market hall for the planting season. Find us outside the market every Friday, Saturday, and Makers Market Sunday. Our popular bedding plants will be available to purchase alongside our ready-made planters and hanging baskets. Free local delivery also available. Come down and visit us!”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager said, “We are excited to have Heathfields back with us. George is always very popular with customers. This is an exciting time for the market hall; we have lots planned for Love your local market from May 15th and are looking forward to welcoming our newest trader – SWEET. Knutsford as well. We urge visitors to visit and explore our wonderful market hall”

The full list of market traders is as follows –

  • The Market Café
  • SWEET. Knutsford
  • Cheshire Party Store
  • Market Hall Barber
  • Slipped Discs
  • Hot Cocoa (until 30th May)
  • 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

Charlotte Montgomery from Satya Sanctuary sat on the floor leading a Yoga class.

Knutsford Health & Wellness Week 2026 Brings the Community Together

Knutsford held its third week-long celebration of health and wellbeing this March. Organised by Knutsford Town Council, in collaboration with a range of the town’s health and wellbeing specialists, this year’s theme was ‘Nurturing Mind, Body and Soul’ with both residents and visitors enjoying a varied programme suitable for all ages, needs and abilities.

The week began with Re-Fresh Knutsford, a vibrant community fair at St John’s Church and Knutsford Methodist Church. Visitors explored a variety of local clubs, groups, volunteer opportunities, and wellbeing businesses and discovered new ways to get involved in the community.

The week highlighted how fortunate the town is to have such a wide range of health and wellbeing businesses on its doorstep, offering services and support that can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike throughout the year.

Throughout the week, participants took part in an exciting programme of free and discounted taster sessions, including Pilates, yoga, boxing, circuit training, massage, sound baths, and hypnotherapy. Health checks and screenings were also available, covering dry eye care, oral health, osteopathy, cardiovascular wellness, hearing tests, and musculoskeletal assessments. Specialist talks covered nutrition, menopause, infant and child food, posture, and relationship coaching.

Richard Clare, Managing Director of Clare & Illingworth Optometrists, the event’s sponsor, said:

“We were proud to support Knutsford Health & Wellness Week 2026. It was wonderful to see the community come together to explore a wide range of health and wellbeing opportunities, and we were delighted to be part of such an important initiative.”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager at Knutsford Town Council, added:

“Health & Wellness Week provided an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors to engage with local wellbeing services and activities. We are grateful to all the businesses who participated and helped make the week so enjoyable for the community.”

The Town Council would like to thank Clare & Illingworth Optometrists for sponsoring the event and all participating businesses for their contributions.

Businesses involved included:

  • 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

Smoke Knutsford Joins The Town’s Voucher Scheme

One of Knutsford’s newest dining spots, Smoke Knutsford, has officially joined the growing list of local businesses accepting the Knutsford Voucher.

Located in Princess Street, the day to night venue opened in November 2025 and has quickly become a firm favourite amongst both residents and visitors.

The relaxed dining venue serves coffee, brunch, small plates, and curated wines from morning to late often accompanied by live music. George, owner, said “We are delighted to be part of the voucher scheme. It’s a fantastic initiative that encourages people to ‘eat indie’ while providing a versatile gift option. We look forward to welcoming voucher holders to enjoy Smoke’s hospitality 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, tapas, toys, and sweets!”

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.

The Mayor of Knutsford holding a pink form on a public footpath

Evidence sought for right of way claim

Knutsford Town Council is starting the process of seeking to register ten new public rights of way across the town and needs help from path users to provide evidence.

The Town Council plans to submit a ‘Definitive Map Modification Order’ application to record ten well used routes. Often, historic public rights of way remain unrecorded despite long standing use by the community, and the need to register a path doesn’t get flagged until there is a threat to access.

The council is therefore working proactively to ensure that where evidence supports it, these routes are formally protected for future generations.

Whilst applications are quite straight forward, the process to amend the Definitive Map is detailed and can take several years to complete once submitted to Cheshire East Council. Recently Cheshire East Council considered an application submitted in 2021 to record a path from Bexton Lane, added the latest official path to the map.

Applications require the submission of robust evidence demonstrating continuous public use for a period of 20 years, alongside other historic evidence of their existence.  The Town Council has identified ten paths which it believes would meet the legal tests and are not currently adopted highways or recorded public rights of way.

The first route, for which evidence is now being gathered, runs from Mallard Close over the railway to the entrance to Tatton Park.

The council is inviting residents and members of the public who have used this path over the past 20 years  or more (i.e. since 2006 or before) to contact the Town Council on 01565 653 929 or enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk to obtain an evidence form. Statements, photographs, maps, or any historical documentation relating to the route may assist in supporting the application.

Town Mayor, Cllr Bryan Hartley said “This is a great opportunity to help preserve the route that has provided access into Tatton Park for the local community for many years. I would urge anyone who is able to support the application, to get in touch with the town council to obtain the evidence form”

The full list of routes the council plans to prepare evidence for is available at www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/prow