Town Centre | Knutsford Town Council

20Aug2025

Knutsford buzzes with art and alfresco dining

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

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

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

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

Jill Aspen – Overall winner of Paint Knutsford

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Images by Knutsford Photographic Society.

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

20Aug2025

MAK Clinic scores a hat trick!

Regent Street based Medical Aesthetics Knutsford (MAK) has scored a hat trick and signed up for three town council led initiatives – the Knutsford voucher, Take a Seat and is the first to sign up to the feeding charter.

MAK clinics moved to its Regent Street location from King Street earlier this year. The clinic is a member of the British Association of medical Aesthetic Nursers and recognised by Save Face the government approved register for practitioners and clinics. Jennifer Dowdall clinic owner said, “We love our location in the heart of Knutsford and Knutsford’s wonderful community. We are lucky to operate from a fully accessible building in Regent Street so taking part in Take a Seat and the feeding charter was an easy decision for us. Plus, by accepting the Knutsford voucher we’ve made it easier for clients to access our treatments.”

Pictured with Jennifer Dowdall is her friend Michaela who has multiple sclerosis. Michaela said, “Schemes like this may seem irrelevant to some as we’ve so many coffee shops in town. However, with having MS and despite walking with a stick when necessary, I still find I must stop every 100 metres or so. Knowing that I can ‘take a seat’ in certain spots around the town is invaluable to me and enables me to enjoy Knutsford and all it has to offer. I would urge more businesses to take part in the scheme – it costs nothing but means everything to people such as myself”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager for Knutsford Town Council, said, “We are grateful to Jennifer and the team at MAK clinic for taking part in these three schemes. The clinic is completely accessible and is an ideal spot to ‘take a seat’ when walking from Princess to King Street. We will be launching our feeding charter very soon, but it is great that MAK clinic is the first to sign up”

The Knutsford voucher was launched in 2020 and currently 50 different businesses accept the scheme. The voucher can be ordered via the Discover Knutsford website or in person at the town council offices. They come complete with a gift card, and each business is paid back in full.

MAK clinic join the following businesses in the Take a Seat scheme –

Holly Johnson Antiques
Knutsford Heritage Centre
Nxtep Gym
Tatton Perk
The Tea Room
Clarity Contemporary Jewellery
Mellor Braggins
Detaljer
Knutsford Methodist Church
Lost and Found
Arthur Lee
Dexter and Jones
Knutsford Hearing Centre
Cranford Café
The Cotswold Company

19Aug2025

Fun for all the family at Family Fest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo Credit – Charlie Norbury Photography

15Aug2025

Stolen Lamb joins the Knutsford voucher family.

Knutsford’s newest restaurant, the Stolen Lamb, has joined the growing list of businesses accepting the Knutsford Voucher.

The family-run Greek restaurant opened in August in the former Botanist premises on King Street and has proved extremely popular with locals and visitors since opening. Saphina Hadjiyianni, owner, said “We’ve been delighted with the welcome we’ve received in Knutsford. We’ve been so busy too with both locals and visitors paying a visit to taste our authentic Greek dishes – so a huge thank you! We are pleased to accept the Knutsford voucher too – it is a great scheme that both keeps spend local and makes a great gift!”

Photo – Sandra Curties of Knutsford Town Council

Left to Right Saphina Hadjiyianni (owner) and Charley Ruocco (manager) of The Stolen Lamb — Photo – Sandra Curties of Knutsford Town Council
Left to Right Saphina Hadjiyianni (owner) and Charley Ruocco (manager) of The Stolen Lamb

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager for Knutsford Town Council, said, “When we introduced the voucher scheme back in 2020, we had no expectation as to the response or longevity of the scheme. We are so pleased it is still in operation, and we’ve added a gift card too. The voucher makes such a lovely gift for all ages with such a variety of businesses accepting it. We are proud to say you can now enjoy Greek food alongside buying a coffee, a cushion, womenswear, or a chicken!”

Press Contact Sandra Curties Sandra.curties@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

31Jul2025

Family Fest returns to town

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Activities include:

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

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

29Jul2025

Paint Knutsford just under three weeks away

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

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

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

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

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

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

25Jul2025

Knutsford Market Hall sponsors Yoga in the Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

22Jul2025

Market Hall Traders Join Taste Knutsford

Two new Knutsford Market Hall traders have joined the ever-popular food lovers tour Taste Knutsford.

Thai Kitchen run by May Lynch has proved extremely popular dining option since the market hall re-opened in May this year. Originally from Thailand, May moved to the UK 8 years ago and has worked in a variety of Thai restaurants as well as honing her skills as a sushi chef. There is already a Thai Kitchen Lymm and now Taste Knutsford tour guests can enjoy her authentic dishes made from fresh ingredients.

May Lynch, said, “I am delighted to be part of Taste Knutsford. A walking food tour is such a unique proposition for a small town such as Knutsford, and it is great that Thai food will now be added to the offer. We will be offering a range of Thai tapas such as spring rolls, fish cakes, pork dumplings, vegan crackers, and tofu satay.”

Polka Polish Bakery offer a cost friendly range of freshly-baked goods including sour dough, granary bread, challah bread and a range of delicious cakes and pastries. Their offer for the tour will be take-out samples from their speciality Polish range”

Kacper Serafin, Polka Bakery’s owner, said, “Taste Knutsford is a great way of promoting both our little bakery and the refurbished market hall to residents and visitors to the town. We can’t wait!”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager, said, “We are thrilled to that Thai Kitchen and Polka Polish Bakery are joining fellow market traders, The Market Café and the Market butcher and taking part in Taste Knutsford. Taste Knutsford provides a wonderful introduction to our independent restaurants, bars, and cafes, and we are confident that they will both 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.

16Jun2025

New Town Centre Shopping Map!

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

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

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

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

12May2025

Knutsford Market Hall Unveils Stunning Refurbishment

The much-loved Knutsford Market Hall officially re-opened its doors on May 10^th 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

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

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