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.

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.

Piero Tonello of Giovannis

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

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

David Jones of King Street based jewellers PR Jones with the Discover Knutsford business card survey

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.

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 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 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
    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
    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 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
    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

Elves, Santa and Knutsford Mayor, Cllr Bryan Hartley at Knutsford Light Switch On

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

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.

A mother bottle feeding her baby in her arms and a mother breast feeding her baby in her arms.

Feeding Charter initiative launches across Knutsford

Knutsford Town Council is proud to launch the Feeding Charter, a new community initiative designed to make visiting Knutsford town centre stress-free and welcoming for all parents and carers of babies and young children.

Effective immediately, this compassionate programme invites local businesses across our charming streets to offer a dedicated, welcoming space for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding babies. The scheme also extends this support to any parent, grandparent, or carer needing a comfortable spot to sit and feed older children.

The Charter specifically acknowledges the challenges our unique and sometimes narrow streets can pose. Delivered in collaboration in with local businesses, the scheme creates a more inclusive environment. Participating venues will display a ‘Baby Feeding Welcome’ sticker in their windows, assuring visitors that a welcoming space is available without the obligation to make a purchase.

“We are proud to support our community with this initiative,” said Town Centre Manager Sandra Curties “Knutsford is a town with a big heart, and by introducing the feeding charter, we are taking a step towards ensuring that our shops are accessible to all, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity.”

Participating locations include:

  • Knutsford Heritage Centre, 90A King Street, WA16 6ED
  • Dagmara Studios, 8A Minshull Street, WA16 6HG
  • Cranford Café, 10-12 Canute Place, WA16 6BH
  • The Tea Room, Cotton Shop Yard, 73 King Street, WA16 6DX
  • Detaljer, 39-41 Princess Street, WA16 6BW
  • Booths, Stanley Road, WA16 0BS
  • KnutCraft, Ruskin Rooms, Drury Lane, WA16 6HA
  • Knutsford Market Hall, Silk Mill Street, WA16 6DF
  • Neki Café, 19 King Street, WA16 6DW
  • Satya Sanctuary, 44-46 King Street, WA16 6DT
  • MAK Clinic, Royal George Building, Regent Street, Wa16 6GR

Charlotte Montgomery, owner of Satya Sanctuary said, “Joining this scheme felt like a natural step for us. Our studio already offers a range of parent and baby classes, including Baby Yoga, Baby Massage, Mamma Barre and Mamma Reformer. We’re used to mums feeding their babies in class and always want them to feel relaxed and at home”

Charlotte continues, “Our chill-out lounge is open to any parent or carer passing by during our opening hours. You’re welcome to pop in for a complimentary herbal tea, use our baby-changing facilities, or just take a quiet moment to unwind. We’re easy to find, fully accessible before and after classes via the courtyard just behind Jessica Stone on Church Hill. There’s a short video on our Instagram page showing the entrance if you need a hand finding us. We’d love to see more local businesses get involved to help make our town even more welcoming for parents and babies”

Emma who runs Cheshire East Mum Club said, “This is such a wonderful idea, and I will be spreading the word across all my members. If you have a crying baby or a hungry toddler or both the relief when you spy a ‘Baby Feeding Welcome sticker’ will be immense. Well done, Knutsford!”

Any Knutsford business who wishes to join the scheme can contact sandra.curties@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

All participating businesses and further details of the charter can be found on https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/feeding-charter and www.discoverknutsford.com

Kevin Jardine and May Lynch

Prevent Breast Cancer Quiz Night at Knutsford Market Hall

Knutsford Market Hall is gearing up to host a fun-filled fundraising quiz night on Wednesday, December 3rd, in aid of charity Prevent Breast Cancer. The evening promises great entertainment, delicious food, and the chance to win fantastic prizes, all while supporting a crucial cause.

The quiz will be hosted by local quiz master Kevin Jardine with food and drink available from Thai Kitchen and raffle prizes to win from a selection of local businesses including Roberta Beauty Redefined, Detaljer, Knutsford Olde Sweet Shoppe, Hot Cocoa, The White Orchid Floral Boutique and Cottons Hotel and Spa. Thai Kitchen will also be contributing a percentage of profits from the evening to this worthwhile charity.

Kevin will put teams’ general knowledge to the test. Attendees can look forward to enjoying tasty food and drinks from Thai Kitchen, which is also generously contributing a percentage of its profits from the evening directly to the charity.

The newly refurbished Market Hall will open its doors to quiz-goers at 7:00 PM, with the quiz kicking off promptly at 7:30 PM.

Tickets are priced at £20 and cover a team of four or six people A small prize awaits the winning team!

Kerri Reece, a local resident and representative for Prevent Breast Cancer, shared her excitement: “We are really looking forward to everyone attending the quiz night, having fun, enjoying the Thai food, and of course, raising money for this worthwhile charity. All monies raised on the night will go directly to the charity.”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager, added, “We are delighted to host the quiz in aid of Prevent Breast Cancer and look forward to a great, festive evening here at the Market Hall.”

Prevent Breast Cancer is the only UK charity committed solely to predicting and preventing breast cancer. For more information about their work, visit: https://preventbreastcancer.org.uk/

Tickets can be purchased via: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/pbc/1918368

North West based Prevent Breast Cancer is the only UK charity committed solely to predicting and preventing breast cancer. Further information can be found here –

Prevent Breast Cancer Home
A christmas wreath hanging on the edge of a christmas market stall

Christmas in Knutsford Returns with Extended Festive Season for 2025

Knutsford is preparing to sparkle once again as the town’s much-loved festive celebrations return this November — with a few exciting changes for 2025!

This year, the Christmas season kicks off slightly earlier, with the Christmas Light Switch-On and Santa Parade taking place on Saturday 15th November, two weeks ahead of the Christmas Market weekend.

The change aims to extend the Christmas shopping period for Knutsford’s town centre businesses and help manage the high visitor numbers both events attract.

Christmas Light Switch-On & Parade – Saturday 15th November | 4pm – 7pm

Festivities begin at 4pm in Canute Place, where Silk FM will host an evening of live entertainment featuring local school choirs and musicians. Families can also enjoy the CAFT Christmas Grotto and a small selection of food and drink traders offering seasonal treats.

At 6pm, the Santa Parade will set off from outside The Lost & Found, travelling along Princess Street towards Canute Place. The evening will reach its festive peak at 6.30pm, when the Mayor of Knutsford, joined by special guests, will switch on the town’s beautiful Christmas lights to officially mark the start of the season.

Knutsford Christmas Market – Saturday 29th November |12 noon – 5pm, Sunday 30th November  | 11am – 4pm

The ever-popular Knutsford Christmas Market returns for a full weekend of festive shopping and family fun. This year’s market will be bigger than ever, with traders spread across Princess Street, King Street, and Silk Mill Street.

Visitors can browse a wonderful variety of artisanal food and drink, handmade crafts, and unique gift ideas from some of Cheshire’s finest independent makers. Live entertainment will fill the streets throughout the weekend, and Silk Mill Street will host an array of hot food traders, perfect for grabbing a festive bite while enjoying the atmosphere.

Santa’s Grotto – Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November

Bring the magic of Christmas to life for your little ones with a visit to Santa’s Grotto, kindly hosted by Knutsford Methodist Church.

  • Saturday: 11am – 3pm
  • Sunday: 12pm – 3pm

Children will receive a special Christmas treat.

Knutsford Town Council invites everyone to experience the charm of the town during this extended festive period. From the dazzling lights and live music to artisan shopping and seasonal street food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For full event details and updates, visit www.discoverknutsford.com/events or follow @KnutsfordTownCouncil and @DiscoverKnutsford on social media.

Knutsford Remembrance Sunday

Knutsford Town Council and the Knutsford Branch of the Royal British Legion invite the community to join the services of remembrance on Sunday 9th November.

The programme for the day is as follows:

09:00-10:00       Community Remembrance Church Service at St Johns Church

10:10-10:25       Parade assembles at King St Car Park

10:25-10:45       Parade to Centennial War Memorial

10:55-11:35       Service at the Centennial War Memorial

12:00-12:25       Service at the Crosstown War Memorial

12:45-13:05       Service at the Tatton Park Parachute Regiment Memorial

13:30-13:35       Town Mayor to lay wreath at Centennial Place Memorial Garden

The church service at St John’s will take place before the parade and the parade will march to the Centennial War Memorial.

The whole community is welcome to join any or all parts of the day.

The principal wreath laying will take place at the Centennial War Memorial and organisations wishing to lay a wreath are requested to advise Gemma Jackson, Civic Events Officer, in advance by emailing gemma.jackson@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk. Only those who have notified the Civic Events Officer in advance will be called up to lay a wreath on the day.

After the main services of remembrance, the Town Mayor will also lay a wreath in the Centennial Place memorial garden at 1:30pm.