Welcome to Knutsford Heritage Centre,
the gateway to Knutsford’s rich history.
At the heart of our Centre is the Knutsford Millennium Tapestry, an extraordinary exhibit that captures life in Knutsford in the year 2000. This stunning 40ft-long tapestry boasts 6,500,000 stitches across three panels named Tatton, Canute, and Toft. It’s a true masterpiece, featuring a vast array of buildings and scenes, complete with delightful ‘easter eggs’ – hidden stories waiting to be discovered.
The Knutsford Millennium Tapestry, created between 1997 and 2001, is a community triumph. Over 3,000 local residents contributed to this 40-foot triptych, depicting Knutsford’s streets, lanes, and over 500 everyday scenes, showcasing the spirit and diversity of our town.
Established in 1989, the Knutsford Heritage Centre stands on the site of a seventeenth-century timber-framed building, now beautifully reconstructed. Thanks to a £100,000 investment by the Groundwork Trust, the area was transformed into the vibrant Heritage Centre we cherish today. Our Centre is a treasure trove of information about Knutsford’s history, offering fascinating videos and exhibits.
Our Heritage Centre also features two charming courtyard gardens, lovingly maintained by volunteers. The front yard welcomes visitors with colourful pots and baskets, while the walled cottage garden between the buildings showcases an array of Old English plants, herbs, and flowers. During summer, visitors can even purchase plants from our gardens.
Don’t forget to visit our well-stocked gift shop, offering Tapestry merchandise, local heritage books, postcards, and more. Join us and explore the warmth and charm of Knutsford at the Heritage Centre.
Our Blue Plaques help visitors and residents connect with Knutsford’s rich history. They promote recognition and awareness of the people, places, and events that have left a lasting mark on our town.
Today, visitors can find 20 plaques highlighting key historic buildings, the homes of notable residents, and our connections to Elizabeth Gaskell’s “Cranford.” Each plaque tells a story, weaving together the rich history of Knutsford’s past.
Gaskell Memorial Tower, King Street
Built in 1907 for Richard Harding Watt, this tower is dedicated to Elizabeth Gaskell, the famed 19th-century author.
Richard Harding Watt, The Old Croft, Legh Road
A glove merchant and builder, Watt lived here from 1895. His unique buildings transformed Knutsford’s townscape.
The Royal George, King Street
This early coaching inn, originally the ‘George and Dragon’, became ‘Royal’ after Princess Victoria’s visit in 1832.
Ruskin Rooms, Drury Lane
Opened by General George S. Patton on April 25, 1944, this was a ‘Welcome Club’ for officers of the American Third Army before they participated in the Liberation of Europe.
Knutsford Sessions House, Toft Road
Built in 1818, this building hosted Quarter Sessions (later the Crown Court) from 1575 to 2010. The nearby Knutsford Gaol was demolished in 1934.
Hollingford House, Toft Road
Once home to Elizabeth Gaskell’s Uncle, Dr. Peter Holland, this house inspired characters in Gaskell’s “Cranford.”
Marble Arch, King Street
This former coaching inn, thought to have been known as The Mermaid, moved across the street in the early 18th century.
Brook Street Chapel, Brook Street
Built after the Act of Toleration in 1689, this chapel is where novelist Elizabeth Gaskell is buried.
Heathfield Square, 2 Heathfield Square
Built in 1922 as part of the ‘homes fit for heroes’ programme following WWI.
Edward Penny RA, Silk Mill Street
Born and lived on Silk Mill Street (1714-1768), Penny was a founding member of the Royal Academy of Arts.
Sir Henry Holland, King Street
Born here in 1788, Holland was a physician to Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, and six Prime Ministers.
Henry Royce, Brae Cottage, Legh Road
Co-founder of Rolls-Royce motor cars, Royce lived here from 1898 to 1908.
Martin Bell MP, Longview Hotel
Bell began his political career here in 1997, leading to his significant victory as Independent MP for Tatton.
Miss Matty’s Tea Shop, Princess Street
Believed to be the fictional home of Miss Matty from Gaskell’s “Cranford.”
Old Police Station, County Terrace, Bexton Road
Built in 1848 for the warders and officers of Knutsford Gaol, this house served as a police station.
Old Chapel and Grammar School, King Street
This site housed a Chapel of Ease from the 14th century until 1744 and the Grammar School until 1887.
Marjorie Hurst, Silk Mill Street
A philanthropist, Hurst founded almshouses in memory of her father, Frederick Hurst.
The Old Vicarage, King Street/Drury Lane
Donated in 1718 to be used as a vicarage, this house was home to children’s writer Alison Uttley around 1910.
Knutsford and District War Memorial Cottage Hospital, Northwich Road
Built by public subscription as a war memorial, this site served as the Cheshire British Red Cross HQ from 1995 to 2022.
Former Prison Governor’s House, Toft Road
Built in 1846 and designed by Edmund Sharpe, this house adds to the historic fabric of Knutsford.
Take a stroll through our town and discover the history that shaped our vibrant community.
Stroll down Princess Street and King Street, where the charm of Knutsford’s past comes alive. These streets still boast 17th and 18th-century houses and shops, along with elegant Georgian buildings. The town’s prosperity soared with the arrival of the railway, leading to the construction of grand houses to the south, including the unique villas designed by Richard Harding Watt.
Knutsford’s architectural heritage is celebrated in the National Heritage List for England, showcasing our town’s rich history through its preserved structures. Among these, the 17th-century Brook Street Chapel stands out, listed at Grade I, and serves as the final resting place of novelist Elizabeth Gaskell.
Two notable Anglican churches grace our town: St John the Baptist, an 18th-century Neoclassical gem, and the 19th-century Gothic Revival Church of St Cross. Both are listed at Grade II*, alongside five other distinguished buildings. The remainder of our listed buildings fall under Grade II, each contributing to the rich history of Knutsford.
As you explore our town, you’ll find each building tells a story, from quaint cottages to majestic villas. Discover the architectural beauty that makes Knutsford a timeless treasure, reflecting the evolution of styles and the enduring legacy of our community.
Tabley House, the finest Palladian mansion in the Northwest, is a stunning example of architectural elegance. Designed by the renowned architect John Carr of York for the Leicester family in 1767, this Italianate masterpiece features beautifully symmetrical red brick and stone construction, overlooking a serene lake.
Inside Tabley House, you’ll find one of the finest collections of English paintings, alongside exquisite 17th-century furniture crafted by masters like Gillow and Bullock. Each room offers a glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the period.
Visitors can enjoy a delightful tearoom, perfect for a relaxing break while exploring the house. St Peter’s Chapel, adorned with a Burne-Jones window, adds to the charm and historical significance of the estate. Additionally, Tabley House serves as a picturesque venue for weddings and film productions, making it a cherished location for many memorable events.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a beautiful place to visit, Tabley House invites you to step back in time and experience the splendor of this architectural gem. Come and explore the rich heritage and timeless beauty of Tabley House.
Nestled in the heart of Knutsford, Tatton Park is one of the most complete historic estates in Britain, with over 1,000 acres of picturesque parkland roamed by red and fallow deer. The estate features a Neoclassical Mansion, a Tudor Old Hall, 50 acres of landscaped Gardens, and a working Farm, making it a perfect destination for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast eager to explore the opulent Mansion or the atmospheric Old Hall or a nature lover looking to stroll through the lush Gardens, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
For families looking for a fun and engaging day out, there are many opportunities on offer. Call in at the Welcome Building for a free map and explore parkland and woodland walking trails, enjoy breathtaking views, discover picnic spots, or visit the Allen Bird Hide to spot the wildfowl on Melchett Mere. Stop off at the play area, explore the maze in the Gardens, or visit the Farm complete with its friendly animals and interactive exhibits that delight children and adults alike.
Tatton Park offers many wonderful experiences with over 100 events, workshops and activities throughout the year including the spectacle of the Christmas Mansion, fun runs, car shows, concerts and artisan gift fairs, to name a few, ensuring that every visit is unique and memorable. Come and experience the charm, history, and natural splendour of Tatton Park, where there’s truly something for everyone.
