The "pleasant little country town of Cranford" -  Archaeology has shown the existence of man at Tatton since around 8000BC and it is said by many that Knutsford derives its name from the Danish King Canute who supposedly 'forded' the River Lily in 1016.  The name Cunetesford appears in the Domesday Book (1086) and many names of Danish origin are found in Knutsford.  The towns first charter was granted in 1292 and its central position in Cheshire led to it becoming known as the 'Capital' of mid Cheshire.  In 1955 Knutsford received its own Armorial Bearings featuring the motto 'Respice, Aspice, Prospice' (Look to the Past, the Present, and the Future) and today it is one of England's most visited historic places with the magnificent Tatton Park boasting two 'stately' homes. Knutsford was twinned with Montmorency in France in 1984.  

KING CANUTE

Danish King of England, circa 994-1035, who supposedly 'forded' the Lily stream, thus giving us Cunetesford as it appears in the Domesday Book.  An impressive mosaic can be seen at Canute Place.

THE ROYAL GEORGE HOTEL

An ancient hostelry of obscure origins, and at one time a coaching Inn, the Royal George has been the centre of Knutsford for centuries. The George and Dragon became 'The Royal George' after a visit by Queen Victoria in 1832. It has also been visited by Elizabeth Gaskell and Highwayman Higgins. Found on King Street.