Town Centre | Knutsford Town Council

25Mar2026

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.

Rodger Lewin from Knutsford Hearing Centre

Sign of Refresh Knutsford with blue and white ballons.

An arrangement of grapes, a smoothie, eggs

Womens Hormones talk at York & Co with speakers Monique Qureshi (Yoga Practitioner), Louise Carter (Dietician), Claire Milton (Womens Health GP), Claire Millington (Personal Trainer) and Lucy Norris (Presenter)

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

16Mar2026

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.

3Mar2026

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

19Feb2026

Knutsford Market Hall welcomes small businesses!

Knutsford Market Hall is offering the opportunity for affordable pop-ups for small businesses, artisans, and makers.

Following refurbishment last year, Knutsford Market Hall has an open central area for table-top traders, with stalls just £20 per day. By offering these competitive rates, the Market Hall provides a low-risk platform for digital-first brands or home-based creators to test the high street and connect face-to-face with the Knutsford community. The initiative utilises the newly created central space in the Market Hall, specifically designed during last year’s renovation to accommodate flexible events and casual traders. Successful applicants will join a vibrant family of established independents, including the likes of The Market Café, York & Co. – The Grocer and Slipped Discs.

“The Town Council is proud to provide the Market Hall as a launchpad for small businesses,” says Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager and Market Officer. “By offering these £20 pop-up slots, we’re inviting the next generation of Knutsford traders to bring something fresh to the hall without the pressure of high overheads. Whether you’re a jeweller, or a craft maker, we want to see your talent in our central hub.”

The £20 rate includes a table, waste and WIFI with the market ideally located on Silk Mill Street straddling King and Princess Streets offering great visibility to residents and visitors. The pop-ups are available on all market trading days – Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and each Makers Market Sunday.

Lee Bosworth capturing some of the pop-ups at last year’s launch on May 10th, 2025

Small businesses interested in a “Startup Pop-Up” slot are encouraged to apply via the official Knutsford Town Council website at www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/market-hall/trade. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis to ensure a diverse and exciting mix of products for shoppers and must compliment not compete with the permanent traders.

Knutsford Market Hall particularly welcomes applications from the following sectors as it wishes to host specialist markets on each Saturday as follows:

Homes and Gardens
Childrenswear and Toys
Food and Drink
Menswear and Womenswear

For more information, contact the Town Centre Manager at 01565 653 929 or email sandra.curties@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk.

12Feb2026

Giovannis joins Taste Knutsford

One of Knutsford’s most enduring and beloved dining spots, Giovanni’s, has officially Knutsford’s official food tour – Taste Knutsford.

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 tour, they offer an Italian flavour to tour guests.

“We are delighted to welcome Giovannis as the newest recruit to our tour.” said Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager for Knutsford Town Council and tour organiser. “The restaurant is located in a beautiful building close to Tatton Park and offers Italian dishes we know our guests will love.”

Mario Zico, manager, said “We are Knutsford’s only truly independent Italian restaurant, and we are delighted to join the Taste Knutsford family. We are looking forward to offering tour guests a flavour of Italy as one of the lunch stops. Of course, this will be accompanied with a side order of Italian charm and service!”

Taste Knutsford was established in 2018 with the aim of promoting the town’s independent food scene. The tour runs once a month on a Saturday between February and November, with guests typically visiting around seven participating venues in a single tour.

Joining the Tour: Independent hospitality establishments looking to join the tour can contact Sandra Curties – Sandra.curties@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

Booking and Information: Guests can find out more about the tour and book tickets by visiting www.tasteknutsford.co.uk.
Private Tours: Private tours for groups of 8 or more are also available.
Partnership Tours: Taste Knutsford is also currently running special shorter evening tours in partnership with Knutsford Ghost Walks, combining food with a spooky ghost tour element. These tours run from November to March.

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.

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,

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

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.

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

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