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THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CITY OF BATH
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ISSUE 114 • MARCH 2012 £3.00 where sold
WEDDING BELLES Three generations of Bath brides
SOFT OPTION
The Audi A3 Cabriolet road tested
FACE THE MUSIC Sharron Davies on life, love, and her desert island discs
ON THE MENU
BATH IN
FASHION working the
Vintage look
TBM reviews The Circus Restaurant
INTERIORS Spring inspiration for the perfect home
TOWN COUNTRY PROPERTY Bath’s Premium Properties Beautifully Illustrated
www.thebathmagazine.co.uk
The very best of local writing, what’s on, arts, lifestyle, property and so much more in your guide to life and living in Bath
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contents
March2012 17 6
ZEITGEIST
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The events you won’t want to miss in Bath this month
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BIGWIG TALK OF THE TOWN
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FACE THE MUSIC BATH IN FASHION Expert advice on where and how to work the vintage look, plus highlights of this month’s fashion festival
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LITERARY CITY WHAT’S ON Stomp into March with Bath’s arts scene, with everything from Eugene O’Neill and Shakespeare to comic capers and poetry
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ART & EXHIBITIONS Our gallery guide to what’s new
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THE WALK
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FOOD & DRINK An exclusive readers’ cookery workshop with chef Alex Venables – plus an interview with Marco Pierre White
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RESTAURANT REVIEW Why a trip to The Circus restaurant will leave you smiling
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HOMES & GARDENS Our beautiful interiors section starts here with loads of inspiration to inspire you to feather your own nest
INDUSTRIAL PAST
Expert tips on creating a unique day, plus three Bath brides talk about their big days
We talk to Dame Harriet Walter ahead of this month’s literature festival
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44 WEDDING BELLES
Swimmer turned TV presenter Sharron Davies talks to Mick Ringham
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44 A look back at Bath’s proud manufacturing heritage
Interview with Andrew Taylor, director of the Bath Half Marathon
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Wander lonely as a cloud in the Wiltshire countryside in the footsteps of a poet
Our columnist complains that nostalgia’s not all it’s cracked up to be
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CITY MOTORING
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CITY GARDENING Jane Moore’s tips on what we should be doing to prepare for summer
105 PROPERTY Dozens of beautiful homes in the biggest property section we’ve ever produced
ON THE COVER Suit by Hemyca at British designers @Fashion Capital. Image courtesy of Bath in Fashion 2012
TBM puts the Audi A3 Cabriolet through its paces
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RUNNING TIPS Olympic hopeful Liz Yelling has words of wisdom for Bath Half Marathon runners
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FIT & FABULOUS Give your mother a beautiful treat for Mothering Sunday MARCH 2012
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EDITOR’Sletter
L
ike a good wedding, this month’s magazine has the traditional elements of something old, something new, something borrowed and some things, if not blue, then guaranteed to help lift your mood. The something old is our look back at how Bath has changed from its days as a manufacturing city. David Kernek has written a fascinating piece about Bath’s lost industries, which may bring back memories to many. The something new is what’s coming up in Bath this month – that’s something we deliver every month with the cultural calendar we call What’s On. And what’s new in March includes a preview of the fabulous Independent Bath Literature Festival, which sees a host of writers descending on the city and turning it into a veritable literary salon and hotbed of intellectual debate – or if it’s belly laughs you’re after, try attending one of Bath Comedy Festival’s events coming up soon. Something borrowed? That’s our special report on the vintage fashion movement, which is burgeoning in Bath and the west country. As part of this month’s Bath in Fashion week we’re taking a look at how today’s stylish dressers are borrowing from the wardrobes of decades past. And, finally, if you’re feeling a little blue we’ll try to raise your spirits. Andrew Swift has mapped out a walk through the Wiltshire countryside, where if you’re lucky you might not see another soul apart from the occasional skylark rising. Or you could indulge yourself with a treat, as I did this month, dining at one of Bath’s favourite restaurants, The Circus, or visiting Marco Pierre White’s latest acquisition, The Pear Tree at Whitley. Both great places for foodies. Tying the whole wedding theme together we’ve got tips for anyone planning a vintage style wedding, along with some venue ideas and a charming interview with three Bath brides – grandmother, mother and daughter, who all married in the city. Enough to inspire your own happy ever after, I feel.
Georgette McCready Editor All paper used to make this magazine is taken from good sustainable sources and we encourage our suppliers to join an accredited green scheme. Magazines are now fully recyclable. By recycling magazines, you can help to reduce waste and contribute to the six million tonnes of paper already recycled by the UK paper industry each year. Please recycle this magazine, but if you are not able to participate in a recycling scheme, then why not pass your magazine on to a friend or colleague.
THEBATHMAGAZINE Editor Email: Tel:
Georgette McCready georgette@thebathmagazine.co.uk 01225 424499
Deputy Editor Email:
Samantha Ewart sam@thebathmagazine.co.uk
Contributors
Jane Moore, Andrew Swift, Mick Ringham, David Kernek, Carrie Marsden
Production Manager Email:
Jeff Osborne production@thebathmagazine.co.uk
Commercial Production Catriona Stirling Email: cat@thebathmagazine.co.uk Publisher Email:
Steve Miklos stevem@thebathmagazine.co.uk
Contact the Advertising Sales team on tel: 01225 424499 Advertising Sales Liz Grey Email: liz@thebathmagazine.co.uk Advertising Sales Email:
Kathy Williams kathy@thebathmagazine.co.uk
Advertising Sales Email:
Jodi Monelle jodi@thebathmagazine.co.uk
The Bath Magazine and The Bristol Magazine are published by MC Publishing Ltd and are completely independent of all other local publications.
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This month sees the third annual Bath in Fashion festival, with a series of events including workshops, talks and catwalk shows around the city. The fashion fest will attract some big names, including shoe designer Manolo Blahnik, who is an adopted Bathonian, British designer Amanda Wakeley and a gaggle of national and international fashion journalists who will no doubt be FROW (front row) for some of those big Bath in Fashion events. Let Milsom Street be our catwalk this month as we dress up and show the world that the people of Bath are not only beautiful but well dressed too – remember the eyes of the fashion world will be on us . . . Bath in Fashion runs from 25 March to 1 April, see Page 17 for our special report.
Read
Gardener, writer, TV presenter and all-round nice guy, Alan Titchmarsh is coming to Bath to kick off the Independent Bath Literature Festival on Friday 2 March. Mr T will be at St Michael’s Church, Broad Street, from 1pm where he will begin reading aloud from Charles Dickens’ David Copperfield. The affable Yorkshireman will be starting a readathon, in which people are invited to sign up and read a section of the book aloud in 15-minute stints. It is also free for visitors to enter the church and enjoy listening to the readings. To sign up email: copperfield@bathfestivals.org.uk. For more on this month’s litfest, see Page 30.
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things to do in March
Listen
Brooding Balkan guitarist Milos Karadaglic, who topped the classical charts with his debut album and has filled the Wigmore Hall, London, and the Carnegie Hall in New York, is coming to Bath Abbey on Thursday 8 March for a one-off concert. For tickets tel: 01225 463362 or visit: wwwbathboxoffice.org.uk
Book
Dare
Barry Cryer, Arthur Smith and Jeremy Hardy are among the comedians aiming to raise a smile at this spring’s Bath Comedy Festival which opens on 30 March. Tickets are on sale now for the 15 shows, which include cabarets and events at various venues around the city. New this year is the Comedy Cavern which has taken up residence in the Baroque nightclub in The Paragon and a New Act Competition to encourage fresh faces on to the comedy circuit. On April Fool’s Day the Natural Youth Theatre will be out on the streets en masse to surprise, amuse and divert the crowds. One of the festival’s stalwarts, Arthur Smith, will be hosting an adults Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Saturday 7 April, which is bound to prove popular. For more details visit: www.bathcomedy.com.
If you fancy a challenge, why not abseil off the roof of one of Bath’s tallest buildings and help raise funds for The Stroke Association charity? Brave Roman Centurions, legionnaires and gladiators are being sought for a mass abseil down the side of the Macaulay Building at the City of Bath College on Saturday 31 March. Organisers hope people will get into the spirit of the day by donning a Roman outfit or toga for their big adventure. Registration is £10 and minimum sponsorship is £75. No experience is needed as training is given on the day. To find out more about the Bath Roman Abseil and to register tel: 0117 953 1200 or email southwestfundraising@stroke.org.uk
Prepare Nervous fathers of the bride and best men, worried about having to make a wedding day speech are now able to take advantage of a new professional service offered by the Natural Theatre Company of Widcombe. Artistic director Ralph Oswick, pictured in unhappier times, helps men prepare for their big day with a two-hour tutorial designed to hone their best jokes and dispel their nerves to deliver with confidence.
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NOTES ON A SMALL CITY By Bigwig
engell
bespoke jewellery shop
NOSTALGIA: NOT ALL IT’S CRACKED UP TO BE
A
ll this fuss about the Jubilee! I can just about remember Coronation Year 1953 and I can tell you it was really dull. The coronation itself was probably amazing, but your average citizen sans telly only saw grainy copies of an official film that was distributed to village halls after the event. It certainly looked to be a very rainy day, and although the nation was purportedly deeply touched by Queen Salote of Tonga’s decision to ride in an open carriage, even at my tender age I harboured doubts that they would have been able to squeeze her impressively large frame into a conventional closed coach. After seeing the film, I worried for weeks about the aged lords who had to walk backwards down the steps away from the new monarch. I just knew that if I ever became a lord I would surely take a tumble in similar circumstances. As a five-year-old I was forced to wear my older brother’s itchy handme-downs (that included itchy too-long flannel shorts that stuck out each side like cardboard, itchy too-big grey shirt and super-itchy thick hand knitted grey socks that gathered around the ankles Just William style unless your mum could afford a bit of elastic to make a pair of painful garters). I understand that clothes rationing was still in existence in 1953. It certainly was in our house. But not enough unfortunately to prevent the purchase of a yard and a half of red woollen fabric with which my aunt made me an elf costume for the village parade. I hated it. And yes, you’ve guessed, it was as itchy as all the other garments that had been forcibly thrust upon me in my short life.
tina engell 29 belvedere, bath ba1 5hr 01225 443334
www.tinaengell.com
the old lady in the grocers shop still ❝ remembered Dad’s illicit lettuces, which she said were lovely ❞ Actually, I can remember hanging onto our buff coloured dog-eared rationing book for dear life every time I was sent round to the shops to buy tea, bacon or butter. Woe betides if you left it behind or lost it. Starvation would surely follow. Though my dad had a market garden, staffed by German prisoners of war, so we had eggs and veg coming out of our ears. I went back to the village a few years ago and the old lady in the grocers shop (who would have been a young slip of a thing back then) still remembered Dad’s illicit lettuces, which she said were lovely. She gave me an apple in fond memory and gratitude. Our coronation parade was, naturally, a suitably dull affair. The local scoutmaster did a passable impersonation of Mr Pickwick, waving from atop a union flag draped delivery van. Very Dad’s Army. And my brother sported a rather fine Indian chief outfit which I coveted, but which he confided was equal in itchiness to anything I had to wear. At least it didn’t rain where we were, and we all got a free coronation mug. These days you get retro clothing fairs and 50’s revival nights. All very exciting. But the real thing was austere, penny-pinching and dull. Being gay was a prisonable offence, politics was mostly run by very boring old men and the wearing of Brylcreem obligatory. For most people in our village, making a simple phone call meant a trudge through all weathers to the phone box up on the main road. And there being only one telly for miles around and buses to town limited to Tuesdays and Saturdays, entertainment was sitting round the radio listening to obscure ‘personalities’ (we didn’t have celebs then) reminiscing about the war on Desert Island Discs. Hmm. Some things don’t change! ■ WWW.THEBATHMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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TALKofthe TOWN
My Cultural Life
Book of the month The Fighting Irish by Tim Newark Published by Constable, £14.99
I
t must have been a terrifying moment for the citizens of Bath,’ writes Bath-based historian Tim Newark, who describes what happened when Irish soldiers arrived on the streets of Bath just over 200 years ago. ‘At the height of the war against Napoleon in 1807, a hoard of Irish soldiers descended on the elegant city of Bath. They could have been enemy invaders as far as the cautious residents were concerned, strolling around with great wooden clubs in their hands ready for a fight with anyone and everyone. But they wore the dark green jackets of the 95th Rifles – an elite unit of sharpshooters in the British Army – and they were on their way to fight the French in Europe. It is an extraordinary fact that at the beginning of the 19th century, there were as many Irishmen in the British Army as Englishmen, a rough proportion of 40 per cent each with the rest made up of Scots and Welsh. Rural poverty and the desire for adventure ensured there was always a steady stream of young Irishmen ready to join up and many legendary English regiments filled up their ranks with recruiting trips to Ireland. In the contemporary recollections of Rifleman Harris, I discovered an account of how these Irishmen were recruited into the 95th Rifles and set sail for England from Clonmel in County Tipperary in south-east Ireland. Arriving in Bristol, they then marched on Bath. “Whilst in Bath, our Irish recruits roamed about the town, staring at and admiring everything they saw, as if they had just been taken wild in the woods,” recalled Harris. “They all carried immense shillelaghs in their fists, which they would not quit for a moment. Indeed they seemed to think their very lives
depended on possession of these bludgeons, being ready enough to make use of them on the slightest occasion.” Having terrified the citizens of Bath, the Irish moved on to Andover, setting up camp on Salisbury Plain – and that’s where it all went terribly wrong. There were Catholics and Protestants among the Irish recruits and the simmering tensions between them had been so far kept under control. So much so that when they started dancing together, it seemed to Rifleman Harris as though maybe they were seeking to overcome their centuries old mutual hatred—but this was merely a preliminary show of drunken camaraderie to be followed by sectarian violence.
Whilst in Bath our Irish ❝ recruits roamed about the town, staring at and admiring everything . . . as if they had just been taken wild in the woods
❞
One Catholic partnered a Protestant in a jig, but then leapt in the air and, with a loud whoop, dealt the Protestant a blow to the side of the head with a club that laid him out flat. A mass brawl broke out, which carried on in fits and starts, until the Irishmen ended up rioting in the streets of nearby Andover and had to be pacified by musket-armed English miltiamen. Bath had had a lucky escape. Once on European soil, however, the Irish in Wellington’s army proved ferocious fighters and directed their fury at the French, helping Britain to win the war against Napoleon.’ The Fighting Irish is very much about uncovering the stories of many of these Irishmen fighting abroad. From the Flight of the Wild Geese to small unit actions in Afghanistan in the 21st century, the book describes their triumphs and their failures in foreign lands, their individual motivations for risking their lives so far from home. It is an extraordinary tale.
NEWS IN BRIEF Actor comes home for show
2 Princes Buildings, George Street, Bath BA1 2ED Telephone: 01225 424499. Fax: 01225 426677 www.thebathmagazine.co.uk © MC Publishing Ltd 2012 Every month The Bath Magazine is circulated free to over 20,000 selected homes and businesses in Bath and the surrounding areas. A certificate of print and publisher’s statement are available on request. Disclaimer: Whilst every reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to The Bath Magazine, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to such material. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the authors. This publication is copyright and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers.
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If your old home is draughty or expensive to heat you might want to look into Bath Homes Fit For the Future, a programme of activities jointly organised by Transition Bath, Bath Preservation Trust and B&NES. Its events run from 5 March to 27 April. There will be an Open Homes weekend on the 17/18 March to showcase inspiring examples of energy efficient homes. This is the first year BHFFTF has been run, but it’s in response to demand for energysaving information. There will be an exhibition at the Central Library in the Podium, from 13 – 16 March, where visitors can pick up free leaflets and advice on saving energy, as well as finding out about more events in the programme.
We ask Andrew Taylor, Race Director of the Bath Half Marathon What are you reading? For culture I’m reading Tea Obreht The Tiger’s Wife and for inspiration Richard Branson Screw It, Let’s Do It. I work my way through The Sunday Times and the Economist in the week to keep up to date with news.
What’s on your MP3 player? A large part of my music collection dates from the late 70s when I had a part time job at Virgin Records while at university. I’ve finally got round to transcribing my vinyl LPs onto digital, so I’m rediscovering lost classics from my youth – Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones, Etta James, Ry Cooder, David Bowie, Bob Marley, The Stranglers – I could go on . . .
Which café or restaurant takes your fancy? Mel is a superb cook, but we still enjoy eating out. The White Hart at Widcombe is fantastic for Sunday lunch and informal dining. We are regulars at Ben’s Café on Walcot Street or for evening meals we love Demuth’s, or Woods. The best for fish and weekend brunch is Loch Fyne, and Bath’s best kept secret for chilling out has to be the Chapel Arts café.
Which museum or gallery will you be visiting? We’re planning a re-visit to the Roman Baths with our eight-year-old son who’s doing a Roman project at school. We’re working our way through the London museums and galleries with the boys.
Your passions? What hobbies or interests will you be pursuing? We spend a lot of time walking or cycling with our dog and the boys, particularly around the Bath Skyline Walk. We’re also part way through a long term hands-on renovation project on a beautiful but somewhat neglected Georgian townhouse.
What outdoor activity will you be taking part in? Apart from the Bath Half Marathon on Sunday 11 March, we are also planning our next event, the Sainsbury’s Bath Sport Relief Mile just two weeks later on 25 March.
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DO SOMETHING YUMMY o something yummy and help support children and young people with cancer this month for CLIC Sargent’s annual Yummy Mummy Week campaign. The week, which takes place between 10 – 18 March is all about mums doing something yummy by hosting their own fundraising events and spending quality time with their children, family and friends – anything, from hosting a cake sale or afternoon tea to a pamper party, goes. All the money raised will help CLIC Sargent, the UK’s leading cancer charity for children and young people, to continue to provide clinical, practical and emotional support. Last year local mums pulled out all the stops as part of Yummy Mummy Week and fundraising events ranged from coffee mornings and pamper evenings, to nursery PJ days and dress pink days at work, all helping to raise £8,000. This amount could pay for a CLIC Sargent Social Worker at the Bristol Children’s Hospital for two months. CLIC Sargent Social Workers help the whole family, including siblings and grandparents, to understand and cope with the emotional, practical and financial effects of cancer, from the very moment their child is diagnosed. Well established south west bakers, Parsons Bakery will be supporting Yummy Mummy Week for a second consecutive year. During Yummy Mummy Week, Parsons will be calling on cake lovers across the south west to visit one of its 24
D
stores in Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Somerset to sample one of its special Yummy Mummy cupcakes. The family run business, which has been in operation for more than 100 years, will be donating 10p from the sale of every cupcake priced at 65p. Managing director, Nick Parsons says: “We are glad to be supporting such a worthwhile cause for a second year at our bakeries across the south west. Last year, sales of our Yummy Mummy cupcake led to over £500 being donated to CLIC Sargent, so we are hoping for an even more successful year this year”. As well as hosting fundraising events and popping along to a Parsons bakery for a Yummy Mummy cupcake, you can also support the campaign by purchasing gifts from the Yummy Mummy product range online. ■ Getting involved is easy, just visit yummymummy.org.uk or tel: 08451 206 658 to register for a fundraising pack
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NEVER ONE TO TREAD WATER
Record breaking swimmer Sharron Davies talks to Mick Ringham about music, her career and family, and why she’s excited to be involved in this summer’s London Olympic Games
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ALL THE SINGULAR LADIES: left to right, Amy Winehouse, Back to Black, Macy Gray, I Try, and Goldfrapp, Clowns
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t was the summer of 1976 when a 13-year- old girl plunged onto the world stage representing Great Britain at the Montreal Olympics. That was the springboard for the young Sharron Davies to become a household name and the rest, as they say, is history. Over the next 18 years, the nation witnessed this determined athlete win a tally of medals, including four bronze, three silver and two gold, competing in the European, Commonwealth and the Olympic Games. Sharron was born in Plymouth, where she learned to swim at the age of six, with her father, who two years later became her coach. So focused was this future sports superstar, that she continued training even after breaking both her wrists in a childhood accident. She reflects, “I credit my father for giving me the enthusiasm and drive in the pool and I relished the challenge. Dad still coaches today at the age of 78, there’s just no stopping him!” When Sharron reached 18, she embarked on a television career and was also in demand for modelling. However, the lure of the chlorine and the cheers of the crowd proved too much for her to resist and she plunged back into the world of competitive swimming, picking up further medals and a MBE along the way. Sharron has broken an impressive 200 British swimming records, and with experience gained as both an athlete and television presenter, it became obvious that she would enter the world of celebrity and media. She joined ITV’s Gladiators and was involved with a number of health and fitness videos, she modelled glamorous outfits to raise money for sports charities and presented Channel 4’s Big Breakfast. Never one to tread water, she recently took part in the series Dancing on Ice and has also been busy building a reputation as a TV sports commentator. She explains “I have devoted most of my life to sport in one way or another, but I also enjoy the business side of things – I’m lucky in that respect.” Sharron has recently moved to a former Georgian mansion in the Wiltshire countryside, just a few miles from Bath where she juggles family life with her children, Grace, Elliott and Finley, and a multitude of commitments to business and a hectic charity schedule. After three marriages and a diverse, hugely successful media career, I asked her what advice she would pass down to her three children. She smiles: “There are so many things you learn about life, for instance, I believe you make your own luck. I also strongly believe you should treat people as you wish to be treated and above everything, follow your heart – but listen to your head.” As for her future plans, she is looking foward to being one of the team of commentators for the BBC’s coverage of the London Olympics this summer. She believes the Games will prove to be one of the most exciting global events of the century. She may not be in the water competing, but you can be sure that Ms Davies will make a splash.
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Sharron’s top ten: ● Joan Armatrading – Fast Car This reminds me of taking part in Dancing on Ice with my fabulous partner Pavel and our best score. Joan even requested a copy of our routine when she saw it, which is marvellous. In rehearsals and training, you hear each song over and over, but I never get tired of this wonderful piece of music. ● Joni Mitchell – Both Sides Now My favourite feel-good film is Love Actually. This reminds me so much of the first time I saw it. The depth in the lyrics is amazing, I get caught up and lost in it. ● Amy Winehouse – Back to Black I was in Shanghai at the World Championships last year and all the news channels were reporting on the tragic killings in Norway. The next piece of terrible news was the death of Amy Winehouse. She had such a great voice and amazing delivery and was a trail blazer for female singers. ● John Lennon – Woman Similar to Amy, the negative fact that such a creative talent was cut short, especially after his resurgence in the early 80s. I loved the album this track was from and will forever wonder what creativity we have all missed. ● Robbie Williams – Mr Bojangles It’s so hard to pick between Michael Buble, Jamie Cullum, Nina Simone or Sinatra, who all sang this. I chose Robbie’s version as it reminds me of my children’s introduction to jazz, albeit soft jazz. To my mind Frank Sinatra is still the king. ● Macy Gray – I Try Most of us ladies have songs we attach to men in our lives, I’m no exception. This has memories of Tony, my third husband and how it just didn’t seem to work out, even though it should have. This was our song from the start, which is odd if you listen to the lyrics.... it makes me rather sad but it is still a beautiful record. ● David Bowie – Space Oddity A true classic – my family know every word and always sing along with it. The imagery it conjures up and the story it tells is so original. I was determined to introduce the kids to the pop classics such as Bowie, Clapton, The Beatles and the great sound of Motown. ● Gorillas – Dare Something totally different. Slightly curious because I love Fleetwood Mac, Queen and U2 among others, but I really enjoy how electric and animated this is, it’s almost surreal, like Dali. I’ve played this album to death, but when I put my cans on, that’s when I can really appreciate it. ● Goldfrapp – Clowns This is haunting and relaxing, I love it. Kate Bush has just brought out a new album after quite a long break and that’s in my car. Similarly I love Eva Cassidy when I need to chill. ● Journey – Who’s Crying Now Finally a bit of rock, this is a survival song; everyone needs a few of those. I used to blast it out in my first car; it’s funny how songs go around, just like fashion in many respects. Everything gets recycled eventually doesn’t it? ■ MARCH 2012
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Pretty in Print... Hannah Dulcie’s Loved by continuity collection, renowned for being handmade in Liberty print silk lawn by Hannah Harden - Smith and now her team of seamstresses is set to create further excitement...
H
annah Dulcie will launch a new bedroom collection and range of bras to compliment the Liberty knickers that sell in the shop, on line and have wholesaled for eight years. After many customers expressed an interest in a broader selection of the pretty prints, the new collection has been designed and made to include robes, camisoles, shorts and trouser bottoms as lounge and sleep wear, longline and short line bras and babydolls. The pieces will be available to buy in store and on line at the end of March after launching at Hall & Woodhouse at the Dulcie & Noor catwalk show, 29th March at 7.30. For tickets for the Dulcie & Noor catwalk show visit Mimi Noor, Hannah Dulcie or Hall & Woodhouse. Hannah Dulcie Lingerie Boutique 13 Milsom Place, Bath BA1 1BZ 01225 489000 / contact@hannahdulcie.co.uk www.hannahdulcie.co.uk 16 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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Looking forward in vintage As preparations are underway for 2012 Bath in Fashion later this month, we pick some of the highlights of the festival and feature a special report on how to buy and wear vintage clothes
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ntil a very few years ago, wearing secondhand or ‘pre-worn’ clothing was largely the choice of students and hard-pressed bargain hunters. But then the retro look was being worked in trendy pockets of London and bohemian Brighton, spreading to other parts of the country and creating a whole fashion movement of people deliberately hunting out wardrobes that recreated the looks their mothers, fathers and even grandparents wore. A couple of years ago at Glastonbury a pop-up 1940s style hair and makeup salon was set up, offering festival-goers the chance to look like Hollywood glamour girls, adopting big curls, shiny red lips and arched eyebrows – the young music fans, who grew up on grunge and the casual look, couldn’t get enough of it. Meanwhile, back in Bath the vintage scene continued to grow and thrive. If you go along to a burlesque night at the Chapel Arts Centre, or to one of Mrs Stokes’ popular pop-up tea parties you’ll find women of all ages enjoying the chance to dress up in the style of Twenties’ flappers, Sixties’ swingers or as post-war Hollywood vamps. It seems the vintage queens are tired of having the way they dressed dictated by high street designers and the catwalk shows of Paris, London and Milan. They’re borrowing from the past to create their own look. Shoppers just can’t get enough of crepe bias cut evening dresses, classic swing coats and fake-fur tippets. This year’s Bath in Fashion festival is going to acknowledge our lingering love affair with vintage by teaming up with some of the city’s biggest experts to create a one-off day that’s open to us all. On 1 April BathVA Fashion Fair and the Secret Tea Party will be hosting Vintage Sunday in the former, and suitably retro, setting of the old railway station, Green Park. The organiser of the regular Bath Vintage and Antiques Market, Naomi Knight, and the host of the Secret Tea Party events, Mrs Stokes, have joined forces to provide a market with more than 70 stalls, classic cars, live music and a pin-up photographer to capture people in all their finery. The theme of the day is the 1920s and there will be a ticket in advance tea party with a chance to learn to dance the Charleston and get advice on wearing vintage style. The day will culminate in a best dressed competition which will be judged by the queen of vintage style Pearl Lowe. West country based Pearl loves shopping in Bath for vintage bits and pieces for herself and her Somerset home. She’s often to be found in places such as Susannah in Broad Street rummaging for unusual and pretty pieces. Continued
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IN SEARCH OF GLAMOUR: main picture, clothes from Scarlet Vintage in Bath – modern women are embracing the chance to dress up in the sort of clothes their grannies wore
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VINTAGEstyle WORKING THE LOOK: clockwise from left, Scarlet Vintage creates a fresh look with a retro dress, a bit of clever DIY styling creates a vintage feel, different textures and diamanté give the past a nod, and style guru Pearl Lowe enjoys trawling Bath’s shops for pre1960s finds
We asked her for a few hints on how to buy and wear vintage. Are there classic pieces that are like gold dust that we should keep an eye out for, we asked? Should we go for fabrics or labels first? Pearl’s advice is: “Obviously in terms of retaining money for pieces, then I suggest one keeps their eyes on designers like Ossie Clark, Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood.” What decades should we be looking for? She picks her favourites: “The 20s, 30s and 40s are great eras to buy.” It’s not always easy to tell if a piece is really from the decade or a good imitation, but Pearl says: “You can usually tell what is genuinely vintage, although with shops like Primark, it’s getting harder to tell, I got caught out the other day when I bought what I thought was a vintage piece and it was in fact from Primark.” Debbie at Scarlet Vintage shop in Queen Street, Bath is a great enthusiast of vintage style. She started her own personal collection when she was an air stewardess, flying regularly to the States. “I used to go to New York and LA to find pieces, it’s still worth looking if you’re in the States. The great thing about America was that they didn’t have the fabric rationing that we had over here post-war and you can still find some items from the late 40s. I also like to go over and pick up all kinds of Hawaiian surf wear from the 60s, which goes down really well with my customers.” Scarlet Vintage is beautifully laid out without the literal whiff of the traditional retro clothing shop. Everything is in pristine condition and with some items it’s only the high quality of the stitching or the attention to detail, that reveals that these are not contemporary fashion items but collectors’ pieces. In the window is a 1950s citrus orange print waisted cotton sundress by Blanes. Debbie says: “This 50s housewife look is very popular right now. Prada and Gucci are revisiting the 50s at the moment and I have no doubt that they’ll be using pieces like this as inspiration for what they’re creating for the runways.” Some vintage wearers go the whole hog, donning authentic items from shoes to has to re-create the entire period feature look. But not everyone is comfortable with that. “I think this vintage trend will live longer because we are free to mix and match what we wear. And because the high street is referencing so many trends from the past we might wear a 18 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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contemporary item teamed with something vintage, “ says Debbie. Mrs Stokes aka Catherine, purveyor of vintage china, hostess of numerous vintage tea parties and self-confessed retro clothes fan, says this corner of the south west is a great place to unleash your dressing up longings. “It’s fun to dress up,” she says, “You don’t have to wear every item from the same era, although I think you should be sympathetic to the materials and the time. For example, I’m wearing a 1940s jersey wrap dress today, with a modern flower in my hair from Accessorize and a glass bead necklace which may or may not be 40s, but it feels more in keeping than plastic would, as they didn’t use plastic then.”
This 50s housewife look is very popular right ❝ now. Prada and Gucci are revisiting the 50s. . . they’ll be using pieces like this as inspiration for what they’re creating
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Mrs Stokes and Pearl Lowe are both adamant that you can’t throw vintage items in the washing machine, “They need looking after,’ says Mrs Stokes, “and I would advise you to have something dry cleaned before you wear it the first time, especially if it’s come from a secondhand shop where all they’ve done is run the steamer over it.” And Debbie of Scarlet Vintage adds: “If you’ve got something precious and, let’s face it, irreplaceable, like a sequinned evening dress from the 1940s then find a cleaner who knows how to dry clean such items. We use Barkers of Bath.” She also advises customers that alterations can be made to gain a better fit, adjusting a bustline or a hem, to create a really well tailored look. In some cases they can even take a garment and make it fit a larger frame, inserting a discreet panel or altering the waistline. Although vintage fans claim it’s much harder to find good quality pieces in charity shops and at jumble sales, there are still pieces from our grannies’ attics out there to be found. Debbie
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B ATH I N FAS H ION 2 012 HIGHLI GHTS Sunday 25 March – Sunday 1 April Tickets: www.bathinfashion.co.uk or tel: 0844 847 5256
Guest designer: Amanda Wakely The Ballroom at the Forum. Tickets, £15 to include glass of fizz
Meet the designer who brings her Spring/Summer collection direct from London Fashion Week, Thursday 29 March, 2.30pm Amanda Wakeley’s designs are worn by celebrities including Scarlett Johansson and Dame Helen Mirren. Enjoy a selection of her newest collection at this catwalk show, which is sponsored by Circle Bath.
From Georgiana to Boy George The Holburne Museum. Tickets, £15
Milliner Stephen Jones talks to Sarah Mower Friday 30 March, 4pm Stephen Jones, milliner, studied at St Martin’s School of Art and has worked with designers including John Galliano and Jean Paul Gaultier. He will be in conversation with fashion journalist Sarah Mower, MBE, who is a Bathonian. The Holburne Museum is staging an exhibition of Jones’ hat designs which he has curated.
Beyond Biba Little Theatre Cinema Tickets, £8
recommends a rummage at the Bath Flea and Vintage Market held at Bath Racecourse (the next one is Sunday 25 March). Some people, like Steve and Jo, pictured above in their 1950s finery, go for the whole authentic timewarp vibe, which involves not only embracing the costume of the era, but the music, the cars and the homeware. Steve and Jo run Cock-A-Doodle Vintage and will be at the vintage fair at Green Park on 1 April, selling all kinds of things from the 1950s and 1940s. Also among the stalls will be one for parents of miniature retro fans. Baby Vintage sells pre-loved and customised clothes for babies and children up to six. If you’re more interested in selling than buying – say you’ve stumbled upon Grandma’s collection of old designer frocks but they’re hopelessly too small (we tend to be larger than our ancestors as we’re better nourished) – it may be worth contacting a vintage shop and making an appointment to show the owner what you have. Most vintage shops have specific buyers’ days, so don’t be tempted to just turn up with a suitcase full. Should you have something really special in your possession, it may be worth contacting a specialist textile and costume auction house. Dreweatts auction house in Bristol is holding a vintage fashion sale on 3 April. ■
A screening of the 2009 film Beyond Biba Wednesday 28 March, 6pm Bath resident and doyenne of fashion journalism, Deirdre McSharry will introduce Barbara Hulanicki OBE, the founder of Biba, which was the leading light in style during the 60s and 70s. Beyond Biba is a documentary about Barbara’s life from the start of Biba, its collapse and her subsequent work as a designer in Milan.
Dress of theYear The Fashion Museum Tickets, £7.25
The unveiling of the 2011 Dress of the Year Friday 30 March Hamish Bowles, American Vogue’s editor at large will choose the Dress of the Year which he feels most epitomises the last 12 months of fashion.
Bath VA Vintage Fair Green Park Station FREE
The vintage fair featuring more than 70 stalls and a best dressed competition Sunday 1 April, 10am to 4pm The Bath Magazine is delighted to be media partner for this free event which celebrates raiding our favourite decades, dressing up and having fun. Pearl Lowe will be judging the best dressed people on the day. NOSTALGIC: Baby Vintage sells retro style and customised clothes for children up to the age of six
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Spring in your step Spring/summer 2012 is set to see some of this year’s biggest, boldest trends grace the rails. Unravel the looks with the help of Milsom Place, with its distinctive independents and high street names top, Print Pierre Jean-
Nanuuk scarf FASHION CAPITAL: As •you might expect, British
• FLOWER POWER: Put on a show with a riot of
florals from Traffic People. Try a floaty silk Tranquil dress with a nod to Monet for inspiration
INVITATION ONLY: Hobbs at Milsom Place launches •a new range called Invitation, putting on a flourish of special occasions with top to toe accessories to match stunning dresses and jackets. Capture the class of Audrey Hepburn with an empire line black and ivory wool silk dress, or go for the Rosa dress in tones of grey and set off with patent heels
Invit ation Letit ia dr e
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Hob bs
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SUBTLE STYLE: Phase Eight is stepping up the style stakes with hats, jackets and clutches to complement mother of the bride dresses. The vintage influence can be seen in the Fonteyn collection, with subtle colour combinations of silver, praline and cream, or antique shades of rose and grey
Gabriella Knight
Designers@ Fashion Capital picks up on many of the season’s trends like sugar almond pastels, in this print top by Jean-Pierre, while scarves by Nanuuk in silk chiffon flatter with the light touch of butterflies
The Fonteyn collection, Phase Eight
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NEW FACES: Watch out for new names at Milsom Place. Hand crafted woven pieces by Katherine Fraser and easy to wear knits and separates from Gabriella Knight
Bath in Fashion comes to Milsom Place this month Macmillan ‘Big Swish’ 22nd March, 7.30pm Matteo Alessi ‘The Alessi Design Story’ 26th March, 7.30pm Roger Saul ‘Fashion to Farming and Back’ 27th March, 7.30pm Kilver Court’s Designer Emporium has a ‘pop up’ shop from 25th March to 1st April The Dulcie & Noor Show at Hall & Woodhouse 29th March, 7.30pm Visit www.bathinfashion.co.uk for more details
Patent shoes, Hobbs
Milsom Place, Bath Tel: 01225 789040 www.milsomplace.co.uk
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Hide and seek With some of the finest leather goods available on your doorstep, treat yourself... invest in a little luxury
SPRING IN YOUR STEP: the Delta shoe from Duo’s spring/summer 2012 collection. Available in cobalt, jade and orange faux snakeskin leather, £75. Duo, 33 Milsom Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 788 800. www.duoboots.com
HANDLE WITH CARE: Dents is one of the few companies in the world that has access to South American peccary leather, which has a soft feel and real depth of colour. Mens gloves, in full peccary leather, lined with Scottish cashmere. £275. Dents, available at Jolly’s, Milsom Street, Bath or for the full collection shop online at www.dents.co.uk. ARM CANDY: Alexa Hobo, £639. Mulberry Factory Shop, Kilver Street, Shepton Mallet. Tel: 01749 340 583. www.mulberry.com
LINE YOUR WALLET: a take on traditional English pinstripe suits, with their formal exteriors and eccentric linings. Pinstripe billfold, £150, from Ettinger. Shop online at www.ettinger.co.uk
TREASURE CHEST: a classic jewellery box from Smythson’s Ruby Viana collection. With fine lizard skin print leather and a removable travel tray, it is the ultimate dressing room accessory. £1055. Mallory Jewellers, 1-5 Bridge Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 788 800. www.mallory-jewellers.com
BE A PLAYER: red lizard backgammon set from Aspinal, £450 from Aspinal of London, and also available at selected John Lewis stores. www.aspinaloflondon.com
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SETTLE DOWN: sustainably sourced and handmade to measure in the UK. Liberty chair in leather, £775. Greenwoods Furniture, 56 Hampton Road, Redland. Tel: 0845 130 9282. www.greenwoodsfurniture.co.uk
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LITERARYcity
AGE CANNOT WITHER HER Actress turned writer Dame Harriet Walter is one of the stars of this month’s Bath Literature Festival. Ahead of her visit she spoke to Georgette McCready about women and ageing and why we should be celebrating our faces as we grow older, rather than mourning the passing of youth
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s women get older many of us look in the mirror and regret the effects the passing of time has had on our faces. We take a critical eye to the lines, the sagging of age and wish we could turn the clock back. Older women also talk of realising that waiters and bar staff don’t notice them anymore, as we become invisible next to our younger sisters. But actress Dame Harriet Walter is on a mission to persuade those of us over a certain age to look in the mirror and like what we see, to learn to glorify the lines that time and experience have placed there, and to spread the word to other women that it’s all right to grow older with grace and style. Dame Harriet, star of British theatre, television and film, is coming to Bath this month to address a literature festival audience on the controversial subject of women’s ageing and their response to it, following the publication of her book, Facing It: Reflections on Images of Older Women. I asked her how she came to write the book. She explained: “I was fed up with the absence of women’s presence in the media and personally wondering myself what old age would hold for me. It all began with an exhibition of photographs I’d curated.” These showed women in the public eye, including Dame Judi Dench, Bianca Jagger, Maggie Smith and Emma Thompson, along with other non-famous faces. The exhibition met an enthusiastic response and Dame Harriet says she was encouraged to write a book, which she duly did, including biographical pieces and excerpts from other writers. She says she is inspired by older women who have an inner glow or an outer beauty: “And although it’s true that if you are happy in life this can show in your appearance, a lot of people have been dealt a rough deal by life. You might look at someone and think they’re a dried up old trout and then you’d see them laughing and their whole face would light up, they’d look completely different.” She has little patience for women who resort to vanity treatments to hold back time. “They tend to all look the same, and besides you can’t actually really look young, you’ll never recapture the genuine peachy beauty of young skin. And there are a lot of women who don’t have the time, or maybe the money or the inclination to bother with all those treatments. “I’m not singing on my own in the wilderness about this issue, 24 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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it’s in the zeitgeist. I love seeing experience and lived-in faces.” She doesn’t believe that men’s appearances improve with age either. “We might imbue them with authority, maturity and experience, but they’re prone to going grey, bald and paunchy.” The actress, who first came to mainstream audiences as Harriet Vane in the Lord Peter Wimsey drama series, has played characters of all ages on stage, screen and television, including the Queen of the Nile, Cleopatra a couple of years ago. She’s played, and talked about many of Shakespeare’s female characters and made appearances in popular TV dramas, including Spooks, Morse and Ballet Shoes. Now, at the age of 61, she recently married for the first time and is looking forward to playing tourists with her American husband when she comes to Bath. She said: “I’ve played the Theatre Royal a number of times and enjoy the city. I think we’ll go to the baths and do some shopping. I’m looking forward to showing him around, it should be fun.” The other event that brings her to Bath is the celebrations that mark the 100th International Women’s Day on Thursday 8 March. The day will begin at 10am at St Michael’s Without Church at the foot of Broad Street, with 100 women each reading a three-minute extract of their choice throughout the day. Dame Harriet is to be the first reader, which surprisingly makes her nervous at the thought. When I spoke to her she hadn’t yet chosen her piece by a woman writer. “I don’t know yet what I’m going to read. I’d really like something I have read before, so I know it, and that will make me less nervous. Ideally I’ll find something that’s a complete story that will take three minutes – three minutes is quite a long time you know.” “The biggest fear I suppose is that one will turn up with a piece and someone else will have chosen the same piece, so the audience will have to sit through it all again. But I am sure it will be a really interesting event and I am looking forward to it.” ■
Harriet Walter at Bath Literature Festival Thursday 8 March, St Michael’s Without Church, 10am start, to run all day until 6pm, Harriet Walter will perform the first reading (free event) Organisers are hoping for 100 women to come along and read their favourite passages written by women. To join, email:onehundredwomen@bathfestivals.org.uk or just turn up on the day. Each piece must last no longer than three minutes. Thursday 8 March, the Guildhall, 1.15am start. Dame Harriet Walter on Facing It: Reflections on Images of Older Women, £8 (£7 concessions) One of this country’s finest actresses will talk about women, ageing and appearance – leading her audience to feel uplifted, inspired and empowered by her passion for the subject. Men are very welcome too. For tickets tel: 01225 463362, visit: www.bathlitfest.org.uk
THOUGHT PROVOKING: Dame Harriet Walter is going to talk to the Bath LitFest audience about women’s appearance as they age
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WHAT’Son THEATRE, DANCE & OP ERA – listed by venue
NOISY NEIGHBOURS
two adult sons James and Edmund, battle to expose, and conceal, a series of appalling truths. Following his critically-acclaimed performance in Arthur Miller’s All My Sons in 2010, for which he won both the Whatsonstage and Critics’ Circle Awards for Best Actor, David Suchet takes the towering role of James Tyrone. He is most famous for his television role as Agatha Christie’s Poirot and his stage credits include The Last Confession, Once in a Lifetime, Amadeus, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and What a Performance. Starring alongside David Suchet is Laurie Metcalf, widely known for her performance as Jackie Harris in the ABC sitcom Roseanne. She is a three-time Emmy Award winner, as well as being nominated for two Golden Globe awards, a Tony Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. Eugene O’Neill was the first and only American playwright to win the Nobel Prize for literature and he won the Pulitzer Prize three times. David Suchet and Laurie Metcalf star in Long Day’s Journey Into Night
Stomp the Theatre Royal
T he atr e R oya l Sawclose, Bath. Box office tel: 01225 448844. www.theatreroyal.org.uk
Stomp, Monday 5 – Saturday 10 March, Monday – Wednesday, 7.30pm; Thursday, 8pm; Friday, 5pm & 8pm; Saturday, 2.30pm & 8pm Stomp returns to Bath to celebrate an astonishing 20 years of bringing foot stamping, finger drumming, adrenalin rushing joy to audiences across the globe. If you have never experienced Stomp then this is your chance to see why this fabulous fun-tastic show continues to thrill audiences worldwide. With a universal language of rhythm, theatre, comedy and dance, eight performers use everything from lighters and plastic bags to bin lids and even the kitchen sink to hammer out an explosively feel-good rhythm.
Funny Peculiar, Monday 12 – Saturday 17 March, Monday – Wednesday, 7.30pm; Thursday – Saturday, 8pm; matinees: Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday, 2.30pm Television favourites including Craig Gazey, Suzanne Shaw, Gemma Bissix, Vicky Entwistle, and Steven Blakeley, come together in this award-winning comedy classic.
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Trevor Tinsley is a small-town grocer with a devoted wife and new baby – but his desire to taste the forbidden fruit of free love leads him astray and into the welcoming arms of his neighbour’s wife. Hilarious misadventures ensue, featuring a host of comic characters, as Trevor’s actions lead him into conflict with his community. Prolific playwright for the stage, television and radio, Mike Stott is renowned for celebrating the quirkiness and robust charm of ordinary life. He is perhaps best known for Funny Peculiar which enjoyed an acclaimed West End run that launched the careers of Julie Walters and Richard Beckinsale and was nominated for Comedy of the Year in 1976.
Long Day’s Journey Into Night, Monday 19 – Saturday 24 March, Monday – Saturday, 7.30pm Long Day’s Journey into Night is one of the greatest American plays of the twentieth century. In his supreme masterpiece, Eugene O’Neill paints a vivid and compelling portrait of a family tormented by the past and paralysed by the prospect of the future. Set in August 1912, the action covers one devastating day from morning through to midnight, at the Connecticut home of the Tyrone family where the mist is rolling in from the sea. During the course of the long day, actor James Tyrone, his wife Mary and their
The Taming of the Shrew, Tuesday 27 – Saturday 31 March, Tuesday – Saturday, 7.30pm; matinees: Wednesday & Saturday, 2.30pm Charismatic and brash, Petruchio of Verona is seeking his fortune through his abilities to gain the hand in marriage of a rich woman, and he’ll do anything. Katharina and Bianca’s father, longing for his daughters to be married, is offering a generous dowry for his daughters’ hands, but not until Katharina is tamed and her wild and unruly ways put to bed. Will the flamboyant Petruchio succeed in taming Katharina to a submissive life of domesticity? Following her acclaimed production of Julius Caesar for the RSC in 2009/10, Lucy Bailey directs Shakespeare’s romantic comedy exploring love, sexual politics and the art of illusion. Lucy Bailey is one of the UK’s leading directors and previous credits include Dial M For Murder, The Postman Always Rings Twice starring Val Kilmer, the National Theatre’s West End transfer of Baby Doll and Timon of Athens and Titus Andronicus for Shakespeare’s Globe.
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T h e U s t in o v S t u d i o Monmouth Street, Bath. Box office tel: 01225 448844. www.theatreroyal.org.uk
Red Light Winter, Thursday 1 – Saturday 31 March, please contact theatre for times Winner of the 2006 Obie Award, and nominated for the Pulitzer Prize, Red Light Winter is a compelling, poetic, erotic and unforgettable piece of theatre. Two thirtysomething New Yorkers, Matt and Davis, once college room-mates, go to Amsterdam to rekindle their friendship and get away from their lives. They find themselves thrown into a bizarre love triangle with a beautiful young prostitute named Christina. But the romance they discover in Europe is eventually overshadowed by the truth they discover back home, the consequences of which will alter their lives forever.
I’m an Aristocrat, Get Me Out of Here, Thursday 22 – Saturday 24 March, 8pm With comedy and thrills galore you’ll gasp and laugh at the elaborate sword fights, the heart wrenching love scenes, and the death-defying French accents. Inspired by the legend of the Scarlet Pimpernel, this inventive and gripping comedy features three actors, playing over 20 roles in 75 minutes of fast-paced fun and action. Having previously thrilled audiences with hit shows, Is That A Bolt In Your Neck? and Grimm And Grimmer, Gonzo Moose is back with a swashbuckling comedy adventure packed full of slapstick, wit and illusion. I’m an Aristocrat, Get Me Out of Here
T h e R o n d o T h e a t re Saint Saviour’s Road, Bath. Box office tel: 01225 463362 www.rondotheatre.co.uk
La Traviata, Wednesday 7 & Thursday 8 March, 8pm In the cultural melting-pot of East London’s galleries, clubs and cafés, burlesque artiste Violetta is the reigning queen, adored by everyone from barristers to baristas. But she’s hiding a fearful secret. When she unexpectedly and unconditionally falls for young city trader Al, neither has any idea where it might lead. Verdi’s tragic story of joy, sorrow, passion, regret and undying loyalty is grippingly told in Kit Hesketh-Harvey’s new adaptation. Kit is largely known for his work in cabaret and his regular panel appearances on Radio 4’s Just A Minute. Meanwhile his operatic translations have been performed by the Royal Opera House, ENO, Sydney Opera, Scottish Opera and Opera North. Last year he directed the Merry Opera Company’s widely acclaimed production of Offenbach’s La Belle Hélène.
Blood and Ice, Wednesday 28 – Saturday 31 March, 8pm A gathering of poets on the shores of Lake Geneva in 1816 became the birthplace of gothic literature’s greatest monster. Mary Shelley gives birth to a character that will haunt and define her in ways that were never imagined when Byron set his friends the challenge to scare each other. This lyrical and haunting play from the Rondo Theatre Company explores love and darkness, wrapping us in a blanket of uncertainty in changing times.
T h e M i s s io n T h e a t r e 32 Corn Street, Bath. For all ticket information contact the theatre on tel: 01225 428600 or visit: www.missiontheatre.co.uk
Phoenix Rising: DH Lawrence – Son & Lover, Friday 9 March, 8pm
Of Mice and Men, Thursday 8 March, 2pm & 7.30pm
1928, France. DH Lawrence is a very ill man. In a series of animated snap-shots, Lawrence presents the personalities and events which shaped his early life. A portrait emerges of a man able to view his life with a mixture of pathos and good humour – not the serious persona implied in his writings nor the puritan sage of his biographers. A complex and selfcontradictory character, often out of step with his background and education, Lawrence is revealed as a man of song with a gift for mimicry as well as profound story-telling and an ability to challenge the sexual mores of his generation in works such as Lady Chatterley’s Lover, Women in Love and The Virgin and the Gypsy. Powerful, literary and moving, Phoenix Rising is a colourful portrait of an extraordinary artist.
Of Mice and Men tells the story of George Milton and Lenny Small, two very different men bound together by providence. Set against the backdrop of the American Great Depression, the hapless protagonists hatch a plan to leave their life of poverty behind and start anew. John Steinbeck’s gripping and dramatic tale of two men with a single dream is told bravely in detail by Tin Shed Theatre Company who pride themselves in consistently re-inventing the ways in which stories can be told.
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A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Friday 9 – Saturday 10 March, 7.30pm RumDoxy Theatre Company presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream, in a fresh look at
one of Shakespeare’s best known plays. Enjoy the characters and the language you love in a new, yet traditional, portrayal of this classic drama. RumDoxy are an emerging theatre company from Wiltshire, who aim to produce exciting and entertaining theatre for all ages.
The Children’s Hour, Tuesday 27 – Saturday 31 March, 7.30pm In 1934, small-town America, two young women, Karen Wright and Martha Dobie, have followed their dreams and spent all their savings converting an old farm into the Wright-Dobie School for Girls. Now, happily running a highly-regarded educational establishment, Karen and Martha’s thoughts turn to their long-term future, but neither banked on Mary Tilford, a manipulative and vindictive 14 year-old pupil at the school who weaves a web of lies and deceit. The Children’s Hour is a gripping play, groundbreaking in its day and has enjoyed several successful revivals, most recently with Keira Knightley in London’s West End. Talented actors from both the adult and youth Next Stage companies are delighted to be bringing the play to Bath audiences. The Children’s Hour
T he P ar a de University of Bath. Box office tel: 01225 386777.
A Journey of a Home, Thursday 22 March, 11am – 6pm Two Destination Language presents a free oneon-one audio performance staged on the University’s central parade exploring themes of identity, border crossing and migration. Taking participants on a voyage, the piece captures the moment when we look to the future and back at what we just left.
B r i s t o l H i p p o d ro m e St Augustine’s Parade, Bristol. Box office tel: 0844 847 2325 or visit: www.bristolhippodrome.org.uk
Grease, Monday 2 – Saturday 7 April, Monday – Thursday, 7.30pm; Friday, 5.30pm & 8.30pm; Saturday, 5pm & 8.30pm Danny Bayne (winner of ITV’s Grease is the Word) stars as Danny with Carina Gillespie as Sandy. It’s the original high school musical featuring the unforgettable songs from the hit movie including You’re the One That I Want, Grease is the Word, and Summer Nights.
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BATH COMEDY FESTIVAL
M USI C – listed by date
30 March – 9 April ■ Powerful singer, Mor
Karbasi will be appearing at the Chapel Arts Centre on Saturday 24 March at 8pm with a concert of traditional songs originating from Spain and her own contemporary compositions that are characteristically haunting, beautiful melodies. Book tickets on www.chapelarts.org
Bath Choral Society, Saturday 10 March, 7.30pm Patrick Monahan
B
ath Comedy Festival 2012 is the fourth annual celebration of the art of making people laugh, featuring a variety of events in venues all around the city. Festival Director Nick Steel says: “This year's Bath Comedy Festival line-up truly has something for everyone – stand-up, street theatre, sketch comedy, story telling, character comedy, comic art, cabaret, music, magic, mystery tours, walks, workshops and puppetry...and that's just the classifiable stuff.” For a full programme of events, visit: www.bathcomedy.com Don’t miss:
■ Opening Night Cabaret starring Mik Artistik’s Ego Trip, Alan Francis, Mike Hayley and Jared Hardy, Friday 30 March, Widcombe Social Club ■ Sunday Lunch with Bill Smarme &
The Bizness, Sunday 1 April, Widcombe Social Club ■ Henning Wehn – No Surrender
Sunday 1 April, Widcombe Social Club Your chance to see the self-appointed German Comedy Ambassador to the UK in the flesh in his sell-out Edinburgh show. ■ Patrick Monahan – Hug Me I Feel Good, Monday 2 April, Widcombe Social Club Lovable comedian Patrick Monahan blends a high energy style with hilarious and engaging stories of his Irish/Iranian/Teeside heritage. Patrick performs this hit show direct from the Edinburgh Festival.
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Bath Abbey, Bath. Tickets from Bath Box Office on tel: 01225 463362 or visit: www.bathfestivals.org.uk Bath Choral Society with The English Cornett and Sackburt Ensemble presents Monteverdi’s Vespers. Conducted by Will Dawes and featuring a host of fantastic soloists including sopranos Esther Brazil and Zoe Brown; tenors Matthew Long, Alexander Sprague and Ben Thapa, and basses William Gaunt and Ashley Riches.
Jem Finder: Mobile Sinfonia Project Launch, Thursday 15 March, 6pm The Roman Baths, Bath. Admission is free but booking is essential on tel: 01225 386777 Mobile Sinfonia is the result of artist, musician and composer Jem Finer’s year-long residency with the University’s Department of Computer Science. Jem is creating a global orchestra made up of mobile phone users, with specially composed ringtones for the public to download.
City of Bath Bach Choir, Saturday 17 March, 7.30pm Bath Abbey, Bath. Tickets from Bath Box Office on tel: 01225 463362 The City of Bath Bach Choir will perform Bach’s iconic Mass in B Minor in a concert which promises to be an exhilarating evening of rich harmonies, highlighting the choir’s technical precision and musical flair. The Music for Awhile orchestra will accompany on baroque instruments.
Paragon Singers, Saturday 24 March, 7.30pm St Alphege Church, Oldfield Lane. Tickets £12 from Bath Festivals Box Office on tel: 01225 463362 or on the door This popular chamber choir gives a rare outing to Monteverdi’s mass In illo tempore,
published alongside the Vespers in 1610. This spectacular work shares many of the characteristics of its more famous cousin, with dancing rhythms and exhilarating closelyworked sequences. The programme also features motets by Gombert, Clemens non Papa and James MacMillan. Keith Bennett conducts, with Steven Hollas continuo.
Bath Cantata Group, Saturday 24 March, 8pm St Stephen’s Church, Lansdown, Bath. Tickets £10 from Sharps and Flats shop or on the door Bath Cantata Group presents an evening of music of the 18th century with a programme featuring Handel’s Concerto Grosso in F, Mozart’s Vespers K339, Vivaldi’s Magnificat and Haydn’s Little Organ Mass.
Freshford Singers: Masterpieces of Sacred Music, Friday 30 March, 7.30pm St Nicholas Church, Bathampton. Tel: 01225 723324 The choir, led by conductor Bernard Wight, with guest organist Gary Desmond, will sing Mozart’s celebrated Vespers K339 and Monteverdi’s Beatus Vir in a programme with works by Bach and Byrd. Collection in aid of the British Heart Foundation.
A Handful of Singers, Saturday 31 March, 7.30pm St Michael’s Church, Broad Street, Bath. Tickets from Bath Box Office on tel: 01225 463362 A Handful of Singers, Baths highly acclaimed chamber choir of 20 voices, presents a concert featuring the best of American choral music. The programme includes Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms, Whitacre’s Five Hebrew Love Songs, Lauridsen’s Ubi Caritas, and music by other contemporary American composers. The choir is directed by its awardwinning conductor Christopher Finch.
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WHAT’Son OTH ER EVENTS – listed by date Widcombe Rising Fundraiser: The Duckworths and Plucky Purcell, Friday 9 March, 8pm Widcombe Social Club, Bath. Free entry, donations in aid of the Widcombe Rising Enjoy live music from headliners The Duckworths and support from Plucky Purcell, plus casino fun and a raffle.
Author Event: Partners in Crime, Tuesday 13 March, 7pm for 7.30pm Bristol Grammar School, University Road, Bristol. Tickets £7/£5 available from www.bristolgrammarschool.co.uk/events/litera ry-events.aspx Bristol Grammar School and Hodder in association with the Bristol Festival of Ideas presents an evening with crime writers Sophie Hannah and Erin Kelly in conversation with Carolyn Mays, publishing director at Hodder. Blackwell’s bookshop will also be on hand for you to buy copies of the authors’ latest novels.
Museum of East Asian Art Tour with Curator, Friday 16 March Museum of East Asian Art, Bennett Street, Bath. Free, but must be booked in advance on tel: 01225 464640 In honour of the re-opening of the museum,
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join a thorough tour with curator, Michel Lee. Wander through time and learn about the fascinating collections.
Mother’s Day Cream Tea, Sunday 18 March, 10am – 5pm The National Trust’s Prior Park Landscape garden, Widcombe, Bath Treat mum to a special cream tea in the tea garden followed by a lovely walk admiring the views. Treat mum to a cream tea at Prior Park
A Talk by Pam Roberts on Roger Fenton and the Still Life Tradition, Monday 19 March, 3.30pm The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath. Tickets £5, to book tel: 01225 388569 Pam Roberts explores the work of photographer Roger Fenton. Despite the cumbersome nature of mid/late 19th century photographic technology, the still life genre was used as both a traditional and experimental form during this period, especially so by Roger Fenton. Roger practised every aspect of photography during his tenyear career and only fully turned his attention to still life in 1860 producing large format still life prints that emphatically stated his artistic credentials.
Ralph Allen’s Legacy – Bath’s 18th Century Entrepreneur, Saturday 24 March, 2pm – 5pm Prior Park College, Bath. Admission £10. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/priorpark Join the museums of Bath and the National Trust to celebrate the life and work of Ralph Allen. The afternoon will include displays, talks, walks and tea. All proceeds go to the restoration of Ralph Allen’s Mausoleum, St Mary’s, Claverton.
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ARTS&EXHIBITIONS KENNETH DRAPER RA & JEAN MACALPINE
Jean Macalpine, Parched Earth
Quest Gallery 7 Margarets Buildings, Bath. Tel: 01225 444142
10 March – 21 April
▲
Victoria Knowles, Stardust
STARDUST
MARINO MARINI: GRAPHIC WORKS
Bath Artists’ Studios The Old Malthouse, Comfortable Place, Bath. www.bathartistsstudios.co.uk
4 – 7 March Victoria Knowles interlaces the illustrative and written word through a selection of poetry and photography. Stardust explores the extensive concepts of light, life and time, captured with both scope and intimacy. SPRING EXHIBITION
Ben Hughes Fine Art The Old Malthouse, Comfortable Place, Bath. Tel: 07941 426071, www.benhughesfineart.co.uk
STEPHEN JONES: FROM GEORGIANA TO BOY GEORGE Marino Marini, Il Grande Teatro delle Maschere
Adam Gallery 13 John Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 480406
10 – 30 March 22 March – 22 April Ben Hughes celebrates the opening of his new studio gallery with an exhibition of new work. Ben’s love of water, with its movement and myriad reflections unite this show, featuring local scenes of Bath, seascapes and evocative paintings of Venice.
Kenneth Draper RA and Jean Macalpine are both inspired by landscape especially the light and colour of the Menorca where they have lived and worked for the last 18 years. Although their mediums are radically different with Kenneth’s mixed media constructions and Jean’s inkjet photographs, there is an intriguing dialogue between them in their work. The private view is on 10 March, 6pm to 7.30pm. This will be followed by a conversation with Jean Macalpine at the Royal Crescent Hotel from 7.45pm to 9pm. Tickets are £10 from the gallery.
An exhibition of graphic work by one of Italy’s greatest artists of the twentieth century: Marino Marini (1901-1980). The show contains lithographs from series such as Il Teatro delle Maschere showing one of the key themes in Marini’s work: the horse and rider. This theme is also linked to theatricality: Marino would often feature dancers, jugglers and acrobats in his work, displaying the optimism that emerges from the characteristic exuberance of his palette. JO LONGHURST
The Holburne Museum Great Pulteney Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 388 569
24 March – 8 May This exquisite display of hats from his own collection has been especially curated by Stephen Jones and is brought to the Holburne Museum by Bath in Fashion. A selection of hats made over the past 30 years will be displayed on vintage mannequin heads among the Holburne’s collection. Stephen Jones has always been inspired by objects in museums and his work is full of exciting historical references. Stephen is one of fashion’s most loved characters with collaborators and customers including Jean Paul Gaultier, John Galliano and Dior.
ICIA Art Space 2 University of Bath. Tel: 01225 386777
Until 4 May A former gymnast herself, artist Jo Longhurst’s work considers the human body in action, incorporating sports photographs from various archives mounted along the gallery wall. Ben Hughes, Conversations in the Rain
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Stephen Jones, Ballroom hat
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ARTS&EXHIBITIONS MIKE BERNARD RI: CITY AND COAST IN COLLAGE AND COLOUR
▲ Bath Contemporary 35 Gay Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 461230 www.bathcontemporary.com
10 – 31 March An exhibition of Mike Bernard’s latest compositions of bustling Italian towns and markets, serene Venetian canals and his favourite fishing harbours and coastal scenes of Cornwall. Mike’s paintings, in mixed media with collage, in his familiar style are accompanied by scenes of Bath in pen and wash. LANDSCAPE AND STILL LIFE
Ruth Stage, Meadow Sunburst
Above: Mike Bernard, Rain in Rome
▲ RETROSPECTIVE EXHIBITION OF THE WORK OF JEANNE WALPOLE Bradford on Avon Library and The Ale & Porter Bradford on Avon.
RUTH STAGE Hilton Fine Art 5 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath. Tel: 01225 311311 www.hiltonfineart.com
12 – 31 March Jeanne Walpole, a well-known resident of Bradford-on-Avon since 1985 and an artist of some renown, died in October last year. She generously bequeathed her extensive archive of paintings to the Edwin Young Collection in Salisbury. Prior to their transit to Salisbury, her lifetime of painting will be celebrated in an exhibition over a threeweek period at two venues within the town: the library (closed Sunday and Tuesday) and The Ale & Porter, 25 Silver Street.
24 March – 14 April Ruth Stage has established a reputation as one of the leading contemporary figurative painters of her generation. The great pulling power and identity of Ruth’s paintings stems from her masterful use of egg tempera. Her paintings are noted for their spatial and luminous qualities, interpreting the rhythms of nature with fluid swirling brush strokes.
STEWART EDMONDSON
Throughout March
Kirsty Withers, Sweet Stuff
Edgar Modern Bartlett Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 443746, www.edgarmodern.com
4 – 24 March Up and coming artist Kirsty Withers joins the gallery for the Landscape and Still Life exhibition. Her work will be exhibited alongside new paintings from David M Martin RGI RSW, Ronald F Smith RGI RSW, Mhairi McGregor RSW.
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Following his sell-out debut exhibition at Beaux Arts, the gallery welcomes back Stewart Edmondson for another stunning show of land and sea vistas, all painted in situ and within a few miles of his Devon home. On show alongside Stewart’s paintings will be Christopher Marvell’s charming and beautifully finished naïve bronzes and raku-fired ceramics by Dave Roberts, one of the most well-known and influential makers in the country. Image: Stewart Edmondson, The Roar of Rock and Water
▲
Beaux Arts 12 – 13 York Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 464850 www.beauxartsbath.co.uk
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It’s all about wood
S annon F U R N I T U R E LT D WWW.THEBATHMAGAZINE.CO.UK
Introducing nine wooden veneer variations of Arne Jacobsen’s 1958 stacking chair collection and nine new colours inspired by the original colour pallet. Choose all the same or mix and match, … they are all beautiful !
68 Walcot Street Bath BA1 5BD 01225 424222 www.shannon-uk.com MARCH 2012
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OUT&ABOUT
A WALK TO INSPIRE Andrew Swift sets out through the Wiltshire countryside following some ancient byways and the footsteps of 20th century British poet Edward Thomas
O
n 15 January 1917, the poet Edward Thomas, who had enlisted 18 months earlier, was posted to a mobilisation camp at Codford in Wiltshire. Two weeks later he left for France. On 9 April – Easter Monday – he was killed by a shell blast at the start of the Battle of Arras. During his last fortnight in England, he spent what spare time he had walking the downs around Codford, which he knew from many earlier visits to Wiltshire. One excursion he undertook at least twice was to Chitterne, and it is from Codford to Chitterne that our walk takes us this month. From there we head into the high, lonely country beyond, before following a series of ancient byways back to Codford. This is a beautiful but strangely empty part of Wiltshire. Through the valley between Codford and Chitterne runs a winterbourne – a stream which flows only after heavy rain and at other times is a dried-up bed winding through the fields. On the high plains above Chitterne you will be unlikely to see a soul – although you’ll be able to see for miles and may well walk to the accompaniment of loud bangs as the military manoeuvre in the banned lands to the north. You will almost certainly see buzzards, though – as well as plenty of pheasants – but, for the most part you will have plenty of time for contemplation – and for thinking of Edward Thomas walking these deserted byways in his last days on English soil.
Directions
The walk starts by the church in Codford St Peter (ST966399). To get there, head south along the A36 for 25 miles. Take the turning on the left for Codford and Chitterne, follow the road round to the right and the church is half a mile along on the left. To the left of the church is Overton House, and to the left of that is a footpath. Head along it, follow it around to the right, and, when you come to a lane, turn left. At a crossroads (ST966404) carry straight along Green Road, and continue along the private road (which is also a public footpath) to Manor Farm. Just past Manor Farm, with its astonishing collection of yew trees, cross a lane and carry straight on through a gateway, heading towards a row of distant conifers. 38 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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Carry on over a cattle grid as the lane heads downhill, ignoring a crosspath. If you look to your right you will see the winterbourne running through the valley. Once through the gate at the bottom, when the lane veers up to the left, turn off it and bear right alongside the hedgerow (ST977424). After 125 metres, when the fence curves right after a gateway, carry straight on across the field, heading to the left of a row of tall trees. Go through a five-bar metal gate and carry straight on alongside the hedgerow. Confusingly this is a five-sided field – the stile you are heading for is in the second corner you come to on the far side (ST983431).
EMPTY LANDSCAPE: main picture, ancient stones near the village of Chitterne, and, right, on the firing range at Imber
After a night of frost, before the March sun ❝ brightened and the south-west blew, jackdaws began to shout and float and soar already, and one was racing straight and high alone Edward Thomas: Ambition
On the other side of the stile you will see a group of three large stones, with no clue to their age or function. Cross a stiled bridge over the winterbourne, carry straight on, cross another stile and turn left along the road. As you approach Chitterne, the winterbourne – marked on the map as Chitterne Brook – can be seen on the left. At the main road, cross over and turn right. Just past St Mary’s Close, cross an old bridge over the winterbourne and carry on along its left bank. Carry on past the church, keeping to the left bank of the winterbourne. When you reach a kissing gate on the left with a footpath sign, go through it, cross a field and go through a pair of kissing gates. Carry on, keeping close to the fence on your left, and, on the far side of a field, go through a pair of gates into a graveyard, with, at its centre, the chancel of a partly-demolished 15th century church. Turn left down to the road.
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OUT&ABOUT very muddy in parts. At a crosspath, carry on along the Imber Range Path, which leads through a high copse and across a military road, before continuing along the Imber Range Path as it bears left alongside a fence (ST970448). Carry on, keeping to the right of the copse of trees at Quebec Barn. At the top of the next rise (ST959444), turn left along a byway by a water tank, leaving the Imber Range Path. You are now over 180 metres above sea level and the views, as you might expect from such a height, are extensive. When you come to a military road (ST958440), turn left and almost immediately right along a byway, passing the group of barns at Quebec Farm. At the road, cross and carry on up another byway. After 900 metres, just past a cattle grid, turn left along a byway (ST955423). After another 400 metres, cross another cattle grid and carry straight on across a bridleway. 450 metres further on, after crossing another cattle grid, turn right along a byway (ST963423). Carry straight on for 1500 metres, before going through a gate and continuing down, as the lane, shuttered by high hedges, curves and deepens – a very attractive end to the walk, and a total contrast to the high plains you have just left behind. At the bottom, turn left along the road and retrace your steps to Codford St Peter Church. ■
FURTHER INFORMATION Turn right along the footpath on the right-hand side of the road. When this ends, cross and continue along the pavement. Although you are still in the village, the pavement soon ends and you have to continue – with care – along a busy road. Fortunately, you do not have to stay on the road for long. After 200 metres – just before it bears left – turn right up a byway (signposted Imber Range Path) by St Mary’s House (ST987439). Carry on up the byway, which is heavily rutted and may be
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Length of walk: ten miles Map: OS Explorer 143 ■ Approximate time: four hours ■ The King’s Head, Chitterne is open lunchtimes on Saturdays and Sundays ■ ■
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MADE IN BATH Cranes, books and bras –Bath has given the world much more than tasty buns, says David Kernek, who’s been tracing the city’s lost industries
T
he millions of tourists who visit Bath – and many lucky enough to live here – could be forgiven for thinking that it’s had only one industry throughout its 2,000-year history: the pleasure business. With spa breaks for the Romans, frolics and fripperies for the Georgians and health cures for genteel Victorians, most of the city’s wealth and heritage has been built – one way or another – on the extraction of money from visitors. It’s true that without the baths we’d have a smallish town on a bend in the River Avon that would be like, let’s say, Shepton Mallet – that’s what the Romans did for us! But Bath has another past: a story of manufacturing industry that employed thousands of the city’s residents, sent goods – from cranes to corsets and books to bras – not only across Britain but also around the world, and thrived until well into the second half of the 20th century. Industry and warehousing kept 20 per cent of the city’s workforce in jobs in the 1970s, with 5,000 in engineering, 2,000 in printing and publishing and 800 in clothing manufacture.
Heavy lifting The biggest name in Bath’s industrial history was Stothert & Pitt, the crane-making company which at its zenith in 1950 employed 2,500 people. By what accident of history were its world-beating cranes made not in Birmingham or Glasgow but in a spa city renowned for almost two centuries as a tourist honeypot in a Somerset valley of pleasure? It’s only now, says Stuart Burroughs, director of the Museum of Bath At Work in Julian Road, that we think of it as an accident. “I don’t think the Georgians and the Victorians saw any incompatibility or incongruity between the city as both an elegant spa resort and a place of industry. It’s a city, and what you find here is what you find in any city: butchers, bakers and candlestick makers.” …. But cranemakers?
The deck cranes on the Titanic ❝ at the bottom of the Atlantic were made by S&P, which is fitting as that’s where Robert Maxwell . . . took the pensions of its loyal workers
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Stothert’s origins can be traced back directly to England’s Industrial Revolution and the 18th century building boom that created the city we treasure today. The grand houses on Georgian Bath’s crescents and streets needed stuff, stuff such as fire grates, cisterns, boilers and railings, which meant a growing business for the Horse Street (now Southgate) ironmongery store run by William and John Stothert in the 1780s. An iron foundry business – still close to the city centre – was started in 1815 by their elder brother George, who some years later employed an apprentice by the name of Robert Pitt. Pitt was upwardly mobile: he became a 40 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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partner in 1855. Stothert & Pitt’s Newark Foundry on the Lower Bristol Road opened in 1857, after which came the massive Victoria Works on the site – on the other side of the road – now known as Western Riverside. Pumping engines, heating and cooking equipment, and treadmills were specialities. Its product range – including concrete and tarmac mixers and road rollers –expanded during the early decades of the 20th century, while its contribution to Britain’s war efforts in both 1914 and 1939 were tank components, minesweeping equipment and 200,000 high explosive shells, as well as the dock and deck cranes that were being exported to ports and shipbuilders around the world. The deck cranes on the Titanic at the bottom of the Atlantic were made by S&P, which is fitting, since that’s where Robert Maxwell, the company’s penultimate owner, took the pensions of its loyal workers before its life in Bath closed in 1989. The name lives on … in a crane-making subsidiary of a UK-owned engineering conglomerate, in the Stothert & Pitt rugby, cricket and camera clubs, in what will be Stothert Avenue, the main road through 2,000-home Western Riverside estate, and in the 1908 crane which is already in place at its entrance.
STRIDING THE GLOBE: Stothert & Pitt’s cranes could be found in ports all over the world PICTURE: courtesy of Bath Admiralty Camera Club and the Museum of Bath at Work
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FACTORY GATES: clockwise from top, a retirement presentation in the 1950s at Stothert & Pitt, foundry workers in the 1940s, Bath cabinet makers, and women making underwear at the Bayer’s factory PICTURES: courtesy of Bath in Time, Bath Central Library, www.bathintime .co.uk and the Museum of Bath at Work
Bath uncovered While men were making cranes at the Victoria Works, women were machine-stitching corsets in the four-storey, red brick factory next door. Built by German immigrant and entrepreneur Charles Bayer in 1892, it’s said to have been England’s first corset factory – and the first Bath factory to be built with an integrated electric light supply. Bayer’s advertisements boasted that his “superfine British corsets for British wearers” were made with the “daintiest French fabrics” and “as easy fitting as a perfectly cut kid glove, with a complete absence of pressure upon the respiratory organs”. Bayer’s business was all but wiped out by the Great Depression, but corset production continued under new owners who in the 1970s added lingerie to its lines. Too naughty for Marks & Spencer – “little bits of nonsense” according to a Bath Chronicle writer – much of it was for mail order and “continental” customers. Sixty jobs were lost when the factory closed in 1982. Corsets were also made in two city centre houses – one of them in Trim Street –by Drew, Son & Company, which distributed its products “throughout the Kingdom and Colonies”.
City of print Bayer’s building, by Churchill Bridge, still stands, as does the impossible-to-miss neo-classical Bath Press building further along on the north side of the Lower Bristol Road. Started in Nelson Place in 1845 by the Trowbridge-born inventor of phonetic shorthand, Isaac Pitman’s press moved in 1859 to the city’s booming industrial quarter south of the river, where it published and printed commercial, educational and shorthand textbooks for UK and world markets and, along with Stothert & Pitt, became a business whose fortunes ran through the histories of generations of Bath families. It employed 500 people in 1945. The Pitman name survived until 1985, but re-branding as The Bath Press and new presses failed to stem the company’s gradual post-war decline; losses reached £20 million as work went to lowcost competitors in Europe and the Far East. It closed in 2007, with the loss of 199 jobs. Sir Isaac Pitman died in 1897 at his home – 17 Royal Crescent – and is buried in Bath Abbey, where WWW.THEBATHMAGAZINE.CO.UK
his epitaph tells us: “His aims were steadfast, his mind original, his work prodigious, the achievement worldwide”. The site is wanted by Tesco, which says the city needs a fifth supermarket.
Cabinets for queens Along with the brass mills in Twerton, furniture-making was another Bath industry that, like engineering, was fostered by the Georgian house-building boom. Small workshops making cabinets for public buildings and private houses flourished throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. Inspired by principles of common ownership and craftsmanship, Charles Richter established the Bath & West of England Co-Operative Cabinet Makers’ Society in 1893; Labour is Worship was its mission statement. Within a few years the co-operative had become a company – Bath Cabinet Makers – with a factory first in Bellotts Road, and later, on the Lower Bristol Road, where 300 men made furniture that earned an international reputation for quality and won gold and silver medals at the 1900 Paris exhibition. BCM fitted out state rooms on ocean liners – the Queen Mary and the Queen Elizabeth – cabins on the Royal Yacht Britannia and the interior of the Bank of England. Its post-war years saw ownership changes, design tastes shifting, redundancies, management buy-outs, bad debts and the loss of a key contract. The business closed in 1992, its 99th year, when 130 people lost their jobs – many of them after 40 years with the company. They’ve all gone, along with Twerton’s wool and brass mills, Harbutt’s Bathampton Plasticine factory which opened in 1900 and churned the stuff out until 1983, the wharves that made Bath a thriving inland port, and the city’s gas works and electricity power stations. Those tasty buns endure. ■ The Museum of Bath At Work, Julian Road, tells the story of the city’s 2,000 years of earning a living. In an 18th century Real Tennis court, the star display is a reconstruction – complete with original Victorian machinery – of Bowler’s soft drinks factory, which opened on Corn Street and closed in 1969. The museum is open seven days a week, April to October, weekends only November to March. MARCH 2012
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Small Ship Cruise Expeditions
A bespoke portfolio of fascinating itineraries aboard comfortable, fine quality small ships. Unique travel experiences for the curious and discerning. SOUTH SEAS ODYSSEY - Celebrate Christmas on Pitcairn Island during an epic voyage from Easter Island to Fiji via the Gambier Islands, the Tuamotus, Tahiti, the Society Islands, the Cook Islands, Niue, Tonga and Wallis & Futuna Group. Depart 16 December 2012 ex London via Santiago to Easter Island return 21 January 2013. The portfolio has an enticing array of options from around coastal Britain, circumnavigation of Iceland, Norwegian Fjords to Murmansk and the White Sea, the intimate Mediterranean, the Levant and Black Sea, West to South Africa, South America and coastal New Zealand. Explore in depth at :
www.johnkennedy-noblecaledonia.com or call John Kennedy on: 0117 946 6000
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The Hannafore Point Hotel
The most
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Cornwall for
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Looe : Cornwall AA *** • Fresh Fish from the boats to your plate • Fresh locally sourced produce • A well stock wine cellar and Real Ales • Brasserie and À la Carte Restaurants • Devon and Cornish Cream Teas
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stay@hannforepointhotel.com • tel: 01503 263273 : stay@berryheadhotel.com • tel: 01803 853225 WWW.THEBATHMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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VINTAGEweddings
Nostalgically yours
Georgina Hunter wedding planner at Inspiral Parties, a bespoke wedding planning and event management service covering Bath and the south west, shares her ideas for a vintage themed wedding oday, brides want something more than the familiar adage, ‘something old, something new…’ on their wedding day. A vintage wedding is a superb opportunity to really have fun, show your creative side and engage your wedding guests. There is now so much more to vintage than mismatched bone china, bunting and cupcakes. There are a plethora of photographers, florists, hairdressers and cake makers all dedicated to helping you create a vintage theme. When planning a vintage wedding, I like to understand what vintage means to my clients, do my research and source the more unusual to help create something unique, personal and occasionally quirky.
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The vintage dress Catherine Middleton captivated the nation when she walked down the aisle in her 1950s Grace Kelly inspired wedding dress. Brides looking for vintage dresses should visit The Vintage Wedding Dress Company who source exquisite gowns and accessories from London, Paris and around the world, from the Victorian era to the early 1970s. They will also customise your chosen dress to suit personal taste and shape. Alternatively, there are plenty of designers currently creating vintage inspired collections. My personal favourite is Astral Sundholm-Hayes of Circa Vintage Brides. Her dresses span each decade, from a 1920s intricate cut lace gown through to a 1970’s Bianca Jagger Yves Saint Laurent style outfit, which is perfect for a Mediterranean wedding and has also been seen on the catwalks at recent fashion shows.
Engage your guests Start with the invitation, as it will set the tone for the day. You can keep it authentic by using beautiful, traditional methods of print. Textured letterpress or engraved printing adds an air of sophistication that digital printing lacks. Meticulous Ink in Walcot, Bath has experts who can create unique invitations using time-honoured methods and using vintage presses, dating from 1870 to 1960. It is often said to me that guests feel like ‘extras’ at a wedding and the most memorable weddings are those where the guests have been involved or entertained in some way while the obligatory photographs are taken. Consider hiring a juke box, a 1920s giant wind up gramophone or even a look44 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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alike crooner to entertain your guests. If you are planning a garden or marquee wedding, hiring village games for your guests such as a coconut shy, tombola and skittle alley could be great fun. Although bear in mind the inclement British weather and have gazebos or tents on stand-by just in case of that midafternoon downpour. An ice-cream with a few deck chairs might be the answer to parched wedding guests while the photographs take place. Why not hire Daisy, the 1970s vintage ice cream van adorned in bunting and fresh flowers to match your colour scheme? Daisy is
BORROWED FROM THE PAST: this beautiful gown, Kristene, is by Claire Pettibone at Carina Baverstock bridal boutique in Bradford-on-Avon
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VINTAGEweddings
Vintage inspired mood board . . . Clockwise from top: Daisy the ice cream van (with owner Tara Cole) will keep guests sweet; Ginger Rogers, the epitome of 1930s Hollywood glamour; vintage cars from Spirit Wedding Cars; invitations by Meticulous Ink; a tin bath filled with ice and Champagne and adorned with flowers and ribbons; vintage style decorations photographed by Pat Cooper far more sophisticated than your average ice cream van, she comes stocked with retro sweets, fruit drinks, homemade chocolates and biscuits, Pimms, mulled wine and hot chocolate, for those chilly days. All served by her owner, Tara Cole.
The flowers Brides may be influenced on their choice of decade by the flowers that were popular in that era. Flowers were an elaborate focal point in a 1920’s wedding and brides often had a shower bouquet with trailing flowers. Consider photographs of your grandparents’ weddings for inspiration. It was traditional for many brides from this era to carry lily of the valley, roses, orange blossom, calla lilies, forget-me-not and freesia. In contrast, the classic 1940’s bride did not carry flowers and instead wore orchids on their wrist.
Consider hiring a juke box, ❝ a 1920s giant wind-up gramophone or even a look-alike crooner to entertain your guests
❞
a good source for inspiration and ideas. Afternoon tea served as an alternative to a wedding breakfast is also becoming popular and relatively inexpensive in comparison. Pearls have made a comeback in recent years and add a touch of glamour from times gone by, particularly draped over floral table centrepieces. Tea stained luggage labels also make great vintage place names.
Enjoy it There is so much opportunity to have fun with a vintage wedding theme. The only limits are your imagination. Having a vintage themed wedding does not have to break the bank either. It is about knowing the right suppliers and where to source products. A vintage inspired wedding will keep guests talking about it long after you have jetted off on your honeymoon and of course it will appeal to all ages. ■ My top 5 tips for planning a perfect vintage wedding: Choose your decade wisely and do your research. A mismatch of vintage periods may work for a few things but not if you are planning to go totally vintage for your wedding. ● Give careful thought to the venue and whether your vintage theme will work ● Consider your guests.
The decor The décor will reflect the era of your vintage wedding. However, you do not want it to outshine the bride so I recommend it is kept understated and subtle. Just add some finishing touches from the decade of your choice. For a little quirkiness, why not fill an old tin bath full of ice to cool your bubbly? They can be picked up on Ebay from around £20 and then adorn it in flowers or ribbons to match your colour scheme or hang bird cages from the ceiling or roof of the marquee? Local reclamation centres are WWW.THEBATHMAGAZINE.CO.UK
● Hire a wedding planner to advise you on your theme and practicalities, to source reliable suppliers and save you time. ● Leave the coordination on the day to your wedding planner so you can join in and have as much fun as your guests. To find out more or to hire Inspiral Parties to plan or coordinate your wedding, contact Georgina Hunter on tel: 01934 867244, email info@inspiralparties.com or visit: www.inspiralparties.com MARCH 2012
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THE WIVES OF BATH
1953
1981
2004
Three generations of Bath brides discuss their weddings and how customs have changed over the years, writes Carrie Marsden
B
renda, my grandmother, is still outraged by my wedding-day impropriety: I removed my veil halfway through the church service. Jan, my mother, can’t believe I took my elaborate hairstyle down at the last minute. ‘No, no, we’re here to share what our days had in common,’ I tell them. Surely there must be some common themes? Some sense of continuity? There must be something about our days that unites us all…
Brenda: 26 September 1953, St Mary’s Church, Julian Road The church my grandparents were married in lost all of its original stained glass windows only 11 years earlier in the Bath Blitz. By the time they were married, Brenda and John would have to wait a further ten months until rationing ended. It was in this climate that my grandmother took her vows. I listen to this story stunned. Married at 10.30 in the morning to accommodate a full Catholic Mass, Brenda got dressed in the house she grew up in on Bathwick Street. As a young woman you moved from your parents’ house to your husband’s house. Anything else would have been scandalous. Jan and I shift uncomfortably in our chairs. Brenda pops upstairs to find her wedding dress. It was secondhand, she explains, bought from a friend to keep costs down. Why have I never seen this ivory satin gown before? Gracefully elegant, like the lady herself, I’m desperate to try it on. Children were encouraged to add their own homemade good luck charms to Brenda’s bouquet of white carnations, roses and 46 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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heather. I’ve never heard of this before. No one dared touch my bouquet; even I was a bit nervous. Looking at one photo of a little boy tying a horseshoe on to Brenda’s bouquet, I decide I prefer this more user-friendly tradition. Brenda takes us back to her house in Bathwick Street and tells us about her Bottom Drawer. Believing the conversation to have taken a distinctly euphemistic turn, I am plunged into uncertainty. Bottom Drawer? Are we to discuss wedding underwear now? I’m not sure I can go there, I think, but then all is revealed. When Brenda got engaged, her big sister, Jean, began to set aside a portion of her pay packet for the bride-to-be’s Bottom Drawer – a treasure trove of odds and ends kept in the wardrobe of their shared bedroom. I think of my own sister and smile. That night, Mr and Mrs Bird took a steam train from Green Park Station and honeymooned in an aunt’s house in Bournemouth. Brenda, “… travelled in a turquoise whipcord suit” – her trousseau was important enough to be included in the local newspaper write-up and says a lot about wedding etiquette (and readership appetites) of the day. I find this fascinating but cannot admit to these two women that I am still in the dark as to what a ‘whipcord’ actually is.
Jan: July 25 1981, St Thomas a Becket Church, Widcombe The newlyweds chose Widcombe Manor as the backdrop to their wedding photos – barely 30 paces from St Thomas a Becket’s front door. My siblings and I would later look back at my parents’ ‘house’ and lament the fact that their fortunes had changed so dramatically.
THREE BRIDES: left to right, grandmother Brenda, mum Jan and daughter Carrie with their respective grooms, John, Chris and Ben
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WEDDINGbelles I am delighted to say there was not the slightest hint of meringue about Jan’s dress. Instead, Jan let her silhouette do the talking in a cream silk and lace dress, made for her following a Vogue pattern. Mum made her own wedding cake. They borrowed their cousin’s new car to drive themselves to the church. They had some friends do the catering and another friend take the photos. Chris and Jan pioneered the two-phase wedding template we see today: they had a wedding reception and then an evening bash. Chris played for Bath Rugby Club at the time and this, along with the rest of his teammates, helped to cement the party feel for the 120 guests who arrived at the Combe Grove Hotel later that day. Everyone looked relaxed, natural and happy; my parents looked so in love. They still do, actually. The couple honeymooned at a friend’s house in Gorran Haven. Mum tells me the Wednesday after their wedding they watched Charles and Diana get married from this Cornish cottage. Do you remember where you were? I ask her. She looks me straight in the eye and says: “We were in bed.” I said share, Mum, not scare.
Carrie: 24 July 2004, The, Chapel of The Lady of Our Snows, Prior Park College I went to school at Prior Park and could not have picked a more picturesque spot overlooking the city I love so much. Fifty years after Brenda began her own married life in her house in Pulteney Grove, I changed into my ivory halter-neck wedding dress in the front bedroom of the same house. Next year will mark Brenda’s 60th year in her marital home. I love this sense of continuity. I like to think Granddad was also with us that day. I’m surprised and delighted that three generations of dresses, spanning fifty years of fashion, don’t actually look that dissimilar. Varying amounts of flesh are on display – from Brenda’s upturned collar, to Jan’s lace-covered décolletage, to my own “racy little number” (Brenda’s words) – but our tastes lean in a similar
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Hylda: 1925, St Swithin’s, Walcot Street Brenda’s mother, Hylda, was also married in Bath. Chatham Row’s beautiful cobbled streets are dated only by the cloche hat worn by my great-grandmother on her wedding day. direction. This was the day of the marquee. With Jan at the helm, our 140 guests were dazzled by sheer detail. Right down to the individual homemade bread in rustic miniature flowerpots and the sparklers in the petits fours. Ben and I were chauffeur-driven to our house in Henrietta Street for our wedding night and flew to San Fransisco for our honeymoon. It was the fairytale. But it didn’t have a bottom drawer, a user-friendly bouquet or the relaxed spontaneity of Jan’s big day. I have mentioned different streets, roads, stations, churches, chapels, and one manor. All of them in beautiful Bath. The city of Bath is the one constant running throughout our weddings. But she also makes way for change. Just like the perfect wife, perhaps… ■
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WEDDINGvenues Guyers House courtyard
GRAND DESIGNS FOR YOUR DAY Guyers House Corsham, Wiltshire. Tel: 01249 713399 www.guyershouse.com Over the past 21 years Guy and Clare Hungerford have developed Guyers House Hotel into an attractive wedding venue. The setting sells itself – a charming Cotswold stone house dating from Charles II’s time built around a rose hung courtyard on one side and a later elegant Georgian facade on the other overlooking flower borders, a croquet lawn and a water lily pond, all set in pretty gardens. The character of the house is warm and friendly as are the staff who have great experience in wedding planning and making everything perfect for the big day. The house and grounds provide an elegant backdrop for photographs and in winter there are log fires in the grates, elegant dining rooms, a ballroom to dance in and a bar to help the party along. Guyers House Hotel is licensed for civil ceremonies and exclusive use is available with 37 elegant en suite bedrooms and free parking.
Monkton Hospitality Limpley Stoke, near Bath. Tel: 01225 721114 or e-mail hospitality@monkton.org.uk. Set in outstanding surroundings, with immaculate grounds overlooking the Limpley Stoke Valley, Monkton Hospitality provides an exclusive venue for the perfect wedding day.
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There are two elegant oak panelled dining halls, offering enchanting locations for both the smaller intimate gathering, and a banquet seating up to 180 guests. With ornate high ceilings, long windows and a beautiful arched entrance doorway, they offer grandeur befitting some wonderful photographic opportunities. For a larger occasion, you have the option of a marquee near the cricket pavilion on the Longmead site, once voted amongst the top ten most picturesque locations in the UK by The Times Magazine. Marquees are supplied locally, with bespoke interiors to suit your budget. Menus are designed to suit every occasion with bespoke services and versatile staff offering a wealth of experience in events catering.
Stonar School Atworth, Wiltshire. For more information contact enterprise manager, Vanessa Lee on tel: 01225 701754 or e-mail v.lee@stonarschool.com Situated amidst 80 acres of beautiful private parkland, Stonar School provides a breathtaking setting for the perfect wedding day. Stonar is a picture-perfect location with panoramic views and just eight miles from Bath. Stonar is a venue that caters to your every need. With exclusive use of the venue and the added advantage of both the marquee and manor house, you will enjoy a magical and memorable day and Stonar’s professional team will be on hand to attend to
every detail, no matter how small. Stonar can work to any budget and the professional team of caterers will be happy to tailor menus to suit your needs, ensuring a totally bespoke service.
The Little Theatre Cinema St Michael’s Place, Bath. Tel: 07889 081 457 Email Thomas Clayton: littleweddings@gmail.com If you fancy a wedding with a difference, this is for you. A unique atmosphere awaits you in this 1930s picture house in the heart of the city. In this cherished cinema, you and your guests can enjoy the ultimate in happy endings; from a simple service on the beautifully illuminated stage to a more adventurous ceremony incorporating film and music. The screen one auditorium and balcony can accommodate parties of up to 192 or if you prefer something a little cosier, screen two has a charming bar area and accommodates 72. The Little Theatre is one of only three cinemas in the country with a wedding licence so it really is an affair to remember.
Ston Easton Park Ston Easton, Somerset. Tel: 01761 241631 or email: events@stoneaston.co.uk Set in 36 acres of parkland, Ston Easton offers a luxurious venue for a wedding. The Palladian mansion is licensed to hold civil ceremonies for
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WEDDINGvenues Ston Easton
Hilles House
ss Great Britain
Tythe Barn
The south west boasts some of the finest wedding venues in the country. We’ve hand-picked our favourites to provide the perfect backdrop to your special day between two and 120 people, offering a choice of six rooms to suit the size and tone of your occasion. For receptions, smaller wedding parties can make use of the decadent grand saloon whilst for larger parties the estate can assist with marquees in its grounds.
Bittenham Springs Cirencester, Gloucestershire. Tel: 01285 771172 or email: info@bittenhamsprings.com Only host to a select number of weddings each year, this unique lakeside venue provides the perfect backdrop to a marquee reception or even the ceremony itself. Located in the quaint village of Ewen, Gloucestershire, this countryside location provides an oasis from the world on your special day.
Hilles House Stroud, Gloucestershire. Tel: 07745 804900 or email weddings@hilleshouse.co.uk This beautiful Cotswolds country house is available for exclusive use and offers individually tailored wedding packages. The great hall is licensed to hold civil ceremonies for up to 100 guests whilst the north lawn offers the ideal setting for a marquee reception. For those looking for something different there’s also the option of a tipi tent complete with internal fire braziers and reindeer skins.
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SS Great Britain Great Western Dockyard, Bristol. Tel: 0117 926 0680 or visit: www.ssgreatbritain.org/venue Couples can choose to celebrate their big day aboard this historic and beautifully restored Bristol landmark. Enjoy the full breadth of the ship’s facilities with the option of holding the wedding ceremony on the promenade deck, a reception in the first class dining saloon, and evening celebrations in the Hayward saloon, all making for fantastic and unique photos.
The Bath Priory Weston Road, Bath. Tel: 01225 331922 www.thebathpriory.co.uk The Bath Priory’s intimate atmosphere, elegant drawing room and library, exquisite food, pretty sun terrace and acres of secluded gardens makes it the ideal venue for your wedding ceremony and reception. The Bath Priory’s exclusive use package offers the ultimate in style and luxury, tailored to meet your requirements.
Bath’s Historic Buildings For information about the venues tel: 01225 477782 or visit: www.bathvenues.co.uk Make your special day one to remember in Bath’s Historic Buildings. Imagine your ceremony in the historic Georgian venue of the Assembly Rooms, with the sparkling chandeliers and elegant pillars
and a wedding reception amid the steam and torchlight of the Roman Baths followed by a reception or party in the elegant Pump Room. You could also choose to have your reception within the fine interiors of the Guildhall – enjoy pre-dinner drinks in the Aix-en-Provence room, then move into the adjoining banqueting room for dinner and dancing.
Tythe Barn and Watermill Priston Mill, near Bath. Tel: 01225 423894 or email info@pristonmill.co.uk Nestled in the countryside and set in picturesque gardens, Tythe Barn and Watermill offers two beautiful locations for your wedding ceremony or celebration. The main function room of the watermill can accommodate up to 90-seated guests whilst the barn, which features stone walls dating back to 1720, is versatile enough to seat up to 180.
Lucknam Park Colerne, near Bath. Tel: 01225 740 526 Lucknam Park is a luxury hotel near Bath. As a 17th century Palladian mansion set in 500 beautiful acres, it’s a perfect location for your special day. The venue offers an exclusive package offering use of the main house and 42 bedrooms and suites or, alternatively, you can hold your civil ceremony and wedding reception non exclusively.
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I DO, IN STYLE From vintage fairs to open days, here’s a list of events in the region to help you plan for your big day, and offer some inspiration too Westonbirt Arboretum Open Day, Sunday 4 March, 11am – 4pm Meet the venue coordinator and wedding hosts at Westonbirt Arboretum near Tetbury to find out more about holding your civil wedding ceremony and wedding reception in the unique surroundings of this national arboretum. Enjoy tastings with the Great Oak Hall’s caterers, Relish, and take advantage of promotions on the day for selected 2012 dates. Free admission by prior appointment – contact tel: 01666 881215.
Love Actually Wedding Fair, Sunday 11 March, 11.30am – 4pm A large and varied number of exhibitors will be on hand to offer advice and information about your wedding day at the Love Actually Wedding Fair at Homewood Park, near Bath. Free admission.
Ston Easton Park Wedding Fair, Sunday 11 March, 11.30am – 4pm Ston Easton Park in Somerset and Aspirational Weddings are hosting a wedding fair to help you find the services you require for your big day, with a wide range of local companies exhibiting. It also provides the perfect opportunity to experience the beautiful surroundings that Ston Easton Park has to offer. Enjoy complimentary drinks upon arrival and if you’re one of the first 100 brides you’ll receive a luxury goodie bag. Free admission. For more information visit: www.AspirationalWeddings.com.
SS Great Britain Wedding Open Evening, Thursday 22 March, 5.30pm – 8.30pm Enjoy a glass of wine on Brunel’s ss Great Britain where the events team will be on hand throughout the evening to talk through every aspect of your special day on board. Tours of the ship and events spaces will be available throughout the evening and there will be a selection of food to taste from the menu and an opportunity to meet a number of wedding suppliers including a photographer and florist. Admission is free.
The Bath Wedding Show, Sunday 25 March, noon – 4pm An exquisite wedding show at the Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel featuring dresses, cakes, florists, jewellery, menswear, cars, photography, stationery, and much more. Enjoy canapes, catwalk shows and a free goodie bag too. Admission is free and there is parking on site. For further information tel: 0843 2899659.
Folly Farm Wedding Open Day, Monday 9 April A magical place to plight your troth, with bird song and wildflowers in spring and summer, apple trees and golden leaves in autumn, and wood smoke and wide skies in winter, Folly Farm is a wonderful wedding venue for all seasons. View the property and meet industry specialists including caterers, florists, marquee providers, cake makers, photographers and beauty therapists. Pre-booking is essential on tel: 01275 331590 or visit: www.follyfarm.org.
The Vintage Wedding Fair, Sunday 22 April, 11am – 4pm Discover Vintage presents The Vintage Wedding Fair at The Cheese & Grain in Frome. Be inspired by the exhibitors and create a vintage look for your special day. On display will be antique lace, lingerie, classic suits, jewellery, vintage cars, specialist entertainment, cakes, floral displays and decorations. Entry £5 on the door. 50 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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FOOD&DRINK
THE MELLOWED MAESTRO doesn’t agree with what they’re saying, but there’s no sign of the enfant terrible of his youth that saw diners asked to leave his establishments. The Marco Wheelers’ empire extends from his London restaurants to more than a dozen pubs across the UK, with more to come. Because of his force of character he seems to have the energy, at 50, to keep his finger on the pulse in every establishment. Visitors to The Pear Tree Inn find a menu that Marco has worked on with his chefs, and adapted to suit the budget and environment on the spot. Marco insists: “We don’t have gastro pubs, we run pubs with restaurants.” So if you want to go and enjoy a pint of Marco’s own real ale, The Governor, without sampling his menu, you’ll be very welcome at the bar. But, a word to the wise, I think you’ll enjoy the Marco food experience – with or without the Yorkshireman – once you try it.
Georgette McCready came face to face with chef Marco Pierre White over lunch in the country pub he’s recently bought
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’ve a long-held fear of Yorkshiremen shouting at me, so when an invitation came to have lunch with the notoriously fiery chef Marco Pierre White in a Wiltshire country pub he’s acquired, I was a little nervous. The story has it that Marco fell in love with the mellow stone Pear Tree Inn at Whitley, near Melksham, some years ago, and when it came on the market he was delighted to make it part of his growing empire of restaurants and pubs. He strides into the bar, where the locals are happily esconced supping their pints by the open fire – a striking figure with his tousled mop of hair, clad in a tweed waistcoat, trousers tucked into green wellies. Within minutes of introducing himself to us he and his gardener head off outside to a yard by the pub where Marco intends to create a stone terrace for diners and a new lawn. By the summer the gardens will wrap themselves round three corners of the building, giving diners the choice of eating alfresco or in one of the pretty dining rooms inside. Our lunch – just a small party of nine – is at two round tables covered in creamy lace tablecloths. Around us is evidence of Marco’s passion for collecting things. There’s a cheeky Dolly Dimples fairground poster, a collection of JAK’s newspaper cartoons and a group of city coats of arms in stained glass have been set along a long wall. He admits to a passion for collecting and is particularly proud of the stained glass set which used to adorn a Burberry store in London. Diners can have a set lunch or dinner two course menu for £15.50, or three courses for £18.50. The sample menu of typical Marco
FORCE OF NATURE: Marco Pierre White, and, below a corner of the dining room at Pear Tree Inn at Whitley
dishes is impeccably executed and as delicious as one would expect. A green treat of pea and ham soup is followed by a row of five delicately soft boiled quail’s eggs, as served at Maxim’s in Paris, with a hollandaise sauce. The main course is a hearty British slice of caramelised honey roast belly pork with Borlotti beans, with a haddock alternative, which looked just as good, for the non-meat eater. Marco asked for pea soup, without ham, and thoughtfully asked the kitchen to confirm that this veggie alternative had been made without using meat stock. I was very impressed by his old world courtesy and good manners. He doesn’t like customers – or his staff – swearing. And he is passionate about bringing young talent on in his kitchens. Yes, he can look loweringly at someone if he
Aprons at the ready for a readers’ exclusive workshop Many of you will remember the fish cookery morning last year for readers of The Bath Magazine at the recently-opened Season’s deli and shop behind the award-winning Tollgate pub in Holt. It was a sell-out. The good news is that we have managed to book another one – with a slightly different theme – on Saturday 31 March, again exclusively for readers of The Bath Magazine. Chef Alex Venables, who won a Michelin star during his time at nearby Lucknam Park Hotel, has built up quite a following for his informal hands on Saturday morning cookery sessions. The 2012 series begins on Saturday 10 March, with Fresh Pasta – teaching the professional techniques for kneading, rolling and filling home-made ravioli, tagliatelli and gnocchi. However our special readers’ event on 31 March, will focus on British Fish – selecting, boning and preparing fish and shellfish from around our shores. You’ll learn (and practice) how to skin and fillet line-caught fish, how to pick a spring-sweet crab and clean west country mussels. An apron is vital.
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YOU SHALL HAVE A FISHY: chef Alex Venables of the Tollgate Inn and Season’s cooks shop in Holt
And all the while, Alex and his kitchen chefs will be answering ‘fishy’ questions, and offering tips on how to cook the finished produce,
together with their delicious maritime recipes. Afterwards you can relax in the Tollgate next door over a one-dish lunch with artisan bread and a glass of wine. All for a specially-reduced price of £18, all-inclusive for the workshop and lunch. To book your ticket contact Alison WardBaptiste on tel: 01225 783326. Space is limited to just 20 places. Alison can also take bookings for the 10 March pasta morning at £20 for the cookery session and lunch, if there are still places left. Seasons can be found at Holt in the converted 16th century barn behind the Tollgate, with its shelves now being stocked with spring and early summer produce. The newest arrivals will include the first baby carrots and peas, shallots and young leeks, meltin-the-mouth spring lamb and the ‘no-hassle’ pork and chicken dishes, sweet English crabs and west country mussels. By April, too, the fresh fish counter will once again be in full swing, with catches landed every day and delivered to the door.
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FOOD&DRINK
The real Italian job The godfather of Italian cookery in Britain, Antonio Carluccio, pictured, is planning to open one of his chain of cafés and delicatessens in Bath. Planning permission has been submitted on behalf of the genial chef to take over empty units in Milsom Place and open a 95-cover cafe and restaurant, along with a shop selling Italian food such as olive oil, chocolate and bread. The new venture would create 40 jobs. Carluccio’s chief executive, Simon Kossoff said: “We have been looking for the right site in Bath for a very long time and Milsom Place is perfect for us. This arrangement of buildings and the adjacent courtyard allows us to create a really special experience.” Visitors to Milsom Place can already dine at national chains, Jamie Oliver’s, Yo! Sushi or Cote Brasserie. There are plans to host events at the new venue, including wine dinners and tastings, risotto and focaccia making classes and a fungi festival to join the other foodie events which regularly take place in Milsom Place.
Pasta fun
FOOD &
Bath’s Vegetarian Cookery School is holding a Mother’s Day cookery event on Sunday 18 March, beginning with a relaxing breakfast, followed by hands-on instruction and culminating in a sociable shared meal. The menu includes handmade pasta and leek and thyme tartlets. Mums – and grown-up daughters – who attend, will also take home a pack of recipes.
Love food?
FULL STEAM AHEAD: Mr Brunel was joined by 80s pop impressario Pete Waterman to open a new brewery in Holt, for the Box Steam Brewery. The real ale producer of beers including Tunnel Vision and Derail Ale, founded in 2004, is expanding its production and plans to sell to pubs and restaurants right across the south of England
DRINK Morsels from Bath’s food & drink scene
Say goodbye to the last of winter with a warming festival of food love at Green Park Station, Bath on Sunday 4 March. Stalls open from 10.30am.
Pamper evening The Spring Shopping and Pamper evening is taking place in the School Hall, Colerne Primary School on Friday 16 March from 7pm. Stalls will offer all sorts of crafts, from candles and homemade bunting, to chocolates, chilli and cupcakes, and Neal’s Yard toiletries. Entrance is £5 to include a goody bag and glass of wine. There will also be a pamper-themed raffle which includes tickets to Thermae Bath Spa and Bishopstrow House Hotel and tea at Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa. All funds raised go to Colerne Old School Playgroup. Tickets from shops in the village or tel: 01225 744006.
A pre-Easter egg-citing festival for chocolate lovers A Designer Chocolate Festival is being staged at Milsom Place on Saturday 24 March, from 10am, at the start of Bath in Fashion 2012. As seen in Harvey Nichols, Lick The Spoon, Cotswold chocolatier, is operating a pop-up shop in Milsom Place. The Easter egg collection is inspired by the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations with a Right Royal Easter Egg and an English Garden Party themed egg. There is also an egg with a Queen’s Guard bearskin and a Bunting Egg and egg complete with a Union Jack cosy. Choc on Choc is based in Rode and run by a father and daughter team. Flo Broughton says: “When people see our chocolates a smile will come to their face, but we know when they bite into it they will be smiling inside.” Elements for Life, based in Hilperton, has notched up awards notably taking Gold at the
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Taste of the West 2011 for its Yummy Scrummy Raw Chocolate Brownie. Products are free from refined sugar, dairy, gluten, wheat and anything artificial, suitable for vegans, lactose intolerance
and coeliacs. Damian Allsop specialises in making luxury handmade chocolates, using English spring water. Served in some of the country's top Michelin starred restaurants, he creates classic flavours and avant-garde combinations. The Chocolatier was founded by Aneesh Popat to provide experimental and exciting chocolates which do not contain any cream, butter, eggs or gelatine, making for a clean tasting chocolate, packed full of flavour, with no compromise on indulgence. Unique flavour combinations include Wasabi truffle, rose and black pepper, masala-chai tea and bramley apple pie mousse. Churros Garcia will be serving what is sometimes referred to as a Spanish doughnut, although churros are crispier and lighter than doughnuts.
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Food for THOUGHT...
Every month The Bath Magazine is perfectly delivered to homes in over 1500 streets in Bath and throughout 31 neighbouring villages, That’s a lot of readers who will eat out regularly.
Tell them your dish of the day. A dve r tis e i n T he Bat h M agaz in e and fe e d 100 0’s Telephone 01225 424499
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The Circus 34 Brock Street, Bath BA1 2LN, tel: 01225 466020
REVIEW
CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION T he Lonely Planet guide recently named The Circus as its favourite place in Bath, citing it as managing to be posh but not in the slightest pretentious. And if an accolade like that isn’t enough, I offer you the irrefutable fact that time after time Bathonians choose to go back to the Brock Street dining rooms as they vote with their feet for great British food, beautifully cooked and always delivered with impeccable service. I’ve been a fan of the restaurant for a while, but clearly nowhere near as long as one diner, who on leaving The Circus the last time we dined was enthusing to the waiter that she’d first eaten there at her graduation lunch in 1978, and that she’d returned for various celebrations ever since.
who clearly believes in letting ❝ the quality of the fresh ingredients, take centre stage without being upstaged by fancy tricks and flourishes
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It’s a good place to go for a celebration, especially if you’re a couple, as the candlelit tables, although small, are far enough apart from each other so you can enjoy an intimate chat without fear of alarming your fellow diners. As I have said, the service is understated but seriously good. We are encouraged to take hunks of bread from a basket proffered by our waitress – no poncy tongs here – and throughout our meal we were given the choice as to whether we wanted our wine glasses topped up. I just hate it when waiters keeping topping up, as it can turn into an unseemly ‘see who can drink fastest’ competition, well at least in does in our family. And so to the menu. For me this is one of those places where I could be given anything from the list and be happy – whether it be a zesty salad of chicory, blood oranges and watercress, or minestrone soup made from The Circus’ organic kitchen garden 54 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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veg. John is a big fan of smoked haddock and we don’t have it as often as he’d like because the smell lingers in the house after cooking, so he was in seventh heaven as he tucked into Cornish undyed smoked haddock with a cheesey gratin sauce. My starter was fresh squid from Lyme Bay, deep fried and served with dipping pots of chilli sauce and tartare sauce. This and the following dish, of sea bream with baked fennel and salsa verde, were both cooked with such an exquisitely light touch every mouthful was a pleasure. This is down to the skill of chef/owner Alison Golden who clearly believes in letting the quality of the fresh ingredients take centre stage, without being upstaged by fancy tricks and flourishes. John chose his favourite, steak with manly chips and a small pat of Café de Paris herby butter. A steak is always a good litmus test of a place, and this was the best he has tasted for a very long time. All the while we were eating and chatting the place had a lively, friendly buzz. Some hopeful couples drifted in off the street on the chance that a table might come free – all this on a very chilly evening at the tail-end of winter, which is testament to the place’s reputation. Starters are from £5.70 to £6.90, main courses around £14–£16, and extra for potatoes, vegetables and other side dishes (£2.70 and large enough to share). The menus change seasonally and if you’d rather have your main meal of the day at lunchtime, several of the evening dishes are also featured on that menu, so you could have the haddock gratin as a main course for under a tenner. You may have been put off rhubarb by school dinners, but let The Circus convert you. The Yorkshire grown rhubarb pudding was a mixture of fruity fool, Amaretto syllabub, biscuit and actual pieces of rhubarb, pink and perfectly on the edge of tart without being lip curling. Delicious. A British cheese, Stichelton, was the perfect curtain call for John’s evening. It’s a blue, cow’s milk cheese from Nottinghamshire, creamy but packed with flavour and teamed up with Bath Oliver biscuits, chutney and celery sticks. If you have something to celebrate, The Circus is as good a place as any to feel you’ve really had a treat. ■ GMc
CITY FAVOURITE: The Circus has a loyal following among Bathonians
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THEBATHMAGAZINE THEBESTOFBATH PERFECTLYCOVERED BATHSBIGGESTMAGAZINE PERFECTLYDELIVERED TOADVERTISETEL: 01225 424499
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COUNTRYlife
GOATS HAVE FEELINGS TOO . . . Alex Sykes meets a pair of Somerset cheesemakers whose state-of-the-art dairy had to be built with its users in mind – the result is an award-winning building which produces great cheese and happy goats too
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any of us harbour the dream of getting away from it all, of starting a new life in the country, or of returning to our roots. Some of us moved out of London to do exactly that but few of us are brave enough to venture much further than the civilised confines of town let alone to give up everything to start an entirely new business. Hill Farm Dairy is the brainchild of Will and Caroline Atkinson. It was born out of Caroline’s passion for cheese, kindled during a period working at Neal’s Yard Dairy in London, and the couple’s desire to leave London for more rural surroundings. Neither Will nor Caroline were born to farming – they sort of fell into it. In June 2006 they left London and made it as far as Bath. Here they stayed for 18 months while Will continued to work as lawyer in Bristol and Caroline made cheese with Mary Holbrook at her small, highly regarded dairy in Timsbury. It was here that Caroline turned away from her initial intention to open a cheese shop and determined to make goat’s cheese. From the outset Caroline was clear that their produce would be manufactured on site using only their own milk – the emphasis being on quality not quantity. So turning their lives upside down, Will and Caroline quit their respective jobs and moved to the heart of the Somerset countryside and a collection of listed buildings centred on a late 16th century farmhouse, Hill Farm. Although already operating as a farm their new home was far from ready to house the livestock needed or produce cheese. It was clear that they needed a plan. The project was ambitious and both Will and Caroline were embarking on an enterprise of which they had little experience. In late 2007 a friendly recommendation led the Atkinsons to Designscape Architects, based in Bath. What attracted Will and Caroline to Designscape was the fact that they had not done a dairy building before. This enabled the design team to see the
the milking parlour is a short ❝ distance from the barn, limiting the goats’ exposure to bad weather
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project from their client’s perspective, to tailor their service to the level required, and to embark on a collaborative and productive learning process where client and architect travelled a similar path towards the end objective. The benefit of this approach was the team’s ability to see each stage afresh and suggest innovative and elegant solutions to the client’s brief. The result is a unique and satisfying building for all users (human and goat) as well as being efficient and easy to use. The Atkinsons very much wanted to get away from the image of ‘agri-industry’ which they felt was inconsistent with their basic ambition for the business and their product. Designscape introduced the Atkinsons to Momentum (structural engineers) and E3 (building services consultants), also Bath based, to assist with the design. Working together and with specialist technical expertise provided via Caroline’s list of contacts gathered during her time at Neal’s Yard Dairy, plans were swiftly put into motion for a new livestock barn, milking 56 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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parlour and dairy. These needed not only to answer the client’s brief for a small scale, state-of-the-art production facility, but also to provide a building whose quality and design matched the ethos of an artisan goats cheese company – a quality handmade product using natural materials and low energy solutions, created with respect for its surroundings. The result was a contemporary, cost effective design where a complex brief required an efficient, programme-led design response. Designscape split the brief into three separate elements running parallel to each other and dropping down a south facing hillside. The topography of the site led directly to the design response. Cheese maturing rooms sit under the milking parlour, enabling them to take advantage of more stable climatic conditions as they are built into the hillside. The dairy is given large linear windows which enable the occupants to enjoy panoramic views across the valley. The milking parlour is a short distance from the barn limiting the goats’ exposure to bad weather (goats are sensitive creatures) and handy when they must be milked twice a day. Finally the milk is able to flow by gravity from parlour to dairy, avoiding pumping / agitation and thus preserving the quality of the milk. It is Caroline’s belief that these factors directly affect the quality of their cheese.
CHEESEMAKERS: Will and Caroline Atkinson with their daughter Kitty in their new dairy
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COUNTRYlife
PATIENCE REWARDED: Stawley cheese is produced in the dairy next to the milking parlour
Despite considerable forward planning the construction process was far from straightforward. The timescale revolved around the gestation period of the goats. Eager to get started, the goats arrived at Hill Farm in April 2008 and were temporarily housed in the existing stable block. Meanwhile the design team waited for Planning and Listed Building Consent. Once necessary permissions were obtained the first phase works started with the construction of a new barn. On completion, a little behind schedule, the goats were rehoused and construction of the dairy and parlour was able to begin in December. The mating season soon arrived and the goats could wait no longer. Construction of the new building continued but the challenges of the project, including a sophisticated services strategy demanding the input of several specialist subcontractors led to delays in its completion. Will was soon hand milking his goats, one by one, twice a day, throughout June and July – nature waits for no man. It was a trying time for the Atkinsons but fortunately the works were completed before their enthusiasm for the project had been extinguished. Completion of the project enabled the design team to breathe a sigh of relief, to look back at what had been achieved and reflect on a successful collaboration with their client. Not so Will and Caroline who now embarked on their real trial – making their business work. This required them not only to produce a quality cheese but also to convince others to market it. After a period of trials, tests and sampling, Stawley (named after their local community) was ready to meet its public. Swiftly adopted by Neal’s Yard Dairy, Stawley has recently become available in Bath via the Fine Cheese Company on Walcot Street. It’s also available to diners at The Circus restaurant in Bath and at Babington House near Frome. A couple of years have passed and Will and Caroline are now getting into their stride. Reflecting on the project, the loss
of weekends and holidays – cheese making is a full time business – the Atkinsons have little time to miss the turmoil of their old London life. They are rewarded by a sense of accomplishment in all that they have achieved. Stawley has sold out every season and is well received by all those who have tried it. As for Hill Farm Dairy, the result was a new cheese production facility built in beautiful rural surroundings taking its cues from an analysis and understanding of the landscape. The project has been recognised as exceptional by its peers and was runner-up in the Royal Institute of British Architects (south west) Town and Country Awards 2010, in addition to being shortlisted for the Regional Awards in 2011. Designscape’s reward is a happy client and a successful business. As Caroline says, “Designscape’s work on our project has resulted in a barn, milking parlour and dairy that perfectly match our aim to have modern agricultural/commercial buildings that sit comfortably within their rural backdrop, and in particular compliment our medieval farmhouse and outbuildings. This aesthetic result was achieved while still achieving the required functionality of the buildings – we have a well ventilated, light barn, a neat, efficient milking parlour and a dairy that has been described by a French cheese consultant as one of his top five dairies in the world – highly recommended in every way.” Stawley is a soft goats’ cheese made with unpasteurised milk. Neal’s Yard Dairy describes it as: “dense and smooth in its paste with a nutty, creamy breakdown under the wrinkled geotrichum rind. Flavours are floral, honeyed and lactic.” Keep the cheese wrapped in its waxed paper and store in a cool, humid place, such as the salad compartment of the fridge. Take the cheese out of the fridge a couple of hours before serving. ■ For more information on Hill Farm Dairy and other projects by Designscape Architects: tel. 01225 858500, or visit: www.dscape.co.uk Hill Farm Dairy: tel. 01823 674436, www.hillfarmdairy.co.uk The Fine Cheese Company, tel: 01225 483407, www.finecheese.co.uk
About Cleo and her chums The first 23 goats arrived at the farm early in 2008. The Atkinsons are currently milking 48 goats (aiming to increase the herd to a maximum of 100 milking goats). There are also three Billies, who are on duty from October onwards, but spend the spring and summer in their own residence on the other side of the farm. The herd comprises three different British goat breeds. Cleo, pictured, is
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one of the Anglo-Nubians, and Hill Farm also has British Toggenburgs and British Saanens. The Saanens give higher yields, but the Nubians and Toggenburgs produce richer milk. The herd is fed with a mixture of cereals, hay taken off the RSPB nature reserve at West Sedgemoor and, from early spring until late autumn, they browse on our permanent pasture.
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MOTORINGcity
THE AUDI A3 CABRIOLET TBM test drives the Audi A3 Cabriolet and finds the new convertible the perfect harbinger of summer writes Jeff Osborne
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MOTORINGcity
IT’S OPEN SEASON
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n the early spring sunshine we sat in the car and looked at each other. Was it too soon in the year to embrace the holiday spirit? The sun was out, we’d both got jackets on, dammit. And so I took the plunge, pressed the switch and the roof effortlessly peeled back. You can’t beat the feeling of cruising along in an open top car, a light breeze blowing, shades on and your best girl by your side. On this occasion that was my four-year-old daughter, an early convert to the glamour of the convertible. The A3 Cabriolet rolls off the Audi assembly line with a range of four petrol and two Turbo Diesel Injection engines. Its direct fuel injection and turbocharging pack both a powerful performance and high efficiency. Most engines feature both the recuperation system and the start-stop system. The S tronic with six or seven speeds is available for the three most powerful engines. The Audi A3 looks sporty and has an elegant style, but hey it also makes for some fun driving, with its agile ways. This new generation of cars hosts some new, exclusive touches. The single-frame grille element and the trims on the Bposts are high-gloss black, the lower air inlets have chrome struts, the exterior mirrors are aerodynamically optimised and there are chrome strips in the door handles. At the rear, all A3 versions have a new diffuser insert with eyecatching separating edge, and the rear lights are tinted on the three-door version. The interior of the A3 is even more exclusive. The key features are dials with a grey background, a flat-bottomed leather sports steering wheel complete with trim ring and a high-gloss trim for the optional navigation system plus. There are gleaming aluminum-look trim inserts on the centre console, mirror adjuster switch and window lifter buttons. The four-cylinder power unit develops an ample 77 kW (105 hp) from a swept volume of 1,197 cm3 and generates a hefty 175 Nm of torque (129.07 lb-ft), yet averages just 42.77 mpg. The most efficient engine version in the car line – and one of the most efficient compact models on the market – is the A3 1.6 TDI developing 77 kW (105 hp) and 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque. It is available in three different versions, the most economical of which is an A3 three-door version averaging 61.90 mpg. In-detail modifications to the body and running gear contribute towards this excellent figure, which equates to CO2 emissions of just 159.33 g/mile. Depending on engine version, the dual-clutch transmission has six or seven speeds. The seven-speed version operates with dry clutches; the absence of an oil supply improves the transmission’s efficiency yet further. The option of power transmission to all four wheels likewise underscores the exceptional position that the Audi A3 enjoys in the premium compact class. Audi supplies quattro permanent all-wheel drive for four engine versions. The Cabriolet is the exception; on the other hand, quattro drive is standard on the S3 and S3 Sportback. Its electroniccontrol multi-plate clutch, mounted on the rear axle for a
balanced weight distribution, apportions most of the engine’s power to the front wheels in normal driving conditions. If need be, it diverts drive torque swiftly and adaptably to the rear wheels. The running gear of the A3 car line combines a sporty character with superb safety and high comfort. Its precision and poise stem from technically elaborate solutions such as four-link rear suspension, which handles longitudinal and transverse forces independently, and the electromechanical power steering, which is as responsive as it is efficient. On all versions with front-wheel drive, the ESP electronic stabilisation programme incorporates an electronic differential lock. When close to the limits of handling on bends, this intelligent software solution manages how the drive torque is distributed among the wheels by small, barely detectable brake applications. These suppress any understeering, improve traction and further enhance driving safety. For the engines developing 103 kW (140 hp) and upwards, except on the Cabriolet, Audi supplies the adaptive damper control system Audi magnetic ride, which exploits the properties of an electromagnetic fluid. The dampers can be set for a comfortable or sporty characteristic. Within the parameters, the system adjusts the damping forces in milliseconds depending on the road conditions and the driver's style. The body sits 15 millimeters (0.59 in) lower with this system. There are also the options of conventional sports suspension and the supple S line sports suspension from quattro GmbH. The S3 comes complete with specially tuned 25 mm (0.98 in) lower S sports suspension. The improved models in the A3 family will be arriving at dealers in the early summer. Their extensive range of high-end options demonstrates their high technological calibre. These include the dynamic cornering light system adaptive light for the xenon plus headlamps, the high-beam assistant and the navigation system plus with MMI operating logic. It calculates routes particularly fast, has a higher resolution and features three-dimensional map graphics. The parking assistant is another very attractive feature, especially when parking in the city. When driving at slow speeds (up to 18.64 miles) its ultrasound sensors scan the parking spaces parallel with the road; when it detects one that is large enough to reverse into, it then indicates this in the instrument cluster. All the driver need do is engage reverse and operate the accelerator, clutch and brakes – the car manoeuvers independently and precisely into the space. The Audi A3 is priced between £21,180 and £29,055. Whatcar? said of the Convertible: ‘It’s hard to think of a more desirable drop-top at this price, or one with such a quick electric roof. Residual values will be outstanding and some fine engines are available.’ There’s one four-year-old who’s pleased to hear that. ■
You can’t beat the feeling of ❝ cruising along in an open top car, a light breeze blowing, shades on and your best girl by your side
SITTING PRETTY:
The Audi A3 cabriolet on location in Bath. Picture by TBM
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❞
To arrange a test drive contact: Bath Audi, Roman Way, BA2 8SG. Tel: 01761 438 300
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CITYpeople
Call out to city film makers: Do you feel lucky? Phil Raby, director of Bath Film Festival, says now is the time for the city’s film makers to prepare for a competition At the risk of coming over all Michael Caine, not a lot of people know that IMDb, aka The Internet Movie Database, the biggest and best film website in the world, was founded and is still run by a bloke in Bristol, where the Amazonowned company is based. Colin Needham is one of the UK’s unsung stars, but Bath Film Festival, with the help of Bath Spa University, is about to start singing. Colin has a strong commitment to the development of new cinematic talent, as does Bath Film Festival, and together they have devised and designed two new awards which will significantly benefit at least two lucky people who want to get started in the film world. The first is The IMDb Script to Screen Award which offers £4,000 cash plus over £1,000 of training, mentoring and development to help translate the winning script into a short film to be screened during Bath Film Festival 2012,
The extra mile ■ Congratulations to Bath Fringe Festival’s directors, Wendy Matthews and Steve Henwood, who were named Best Festival Directors in the Annual Fringe Report Awards in London. The citation read: “…for their dedicated and lively work delivering Bath Fringe. It reflects their understanding of the essence of art outside the main road, and their enthusiasm and determination in bringing to an enormous and enthusiastic audience a world-wide beacon of festival excellence.” In their acceptance speech (which was limited to just 60 seconds) Wendy and Steve thanked sponsors including Bath arts’ No.1 supporter Brian Roper, all the volunteers and the audiences for the wide range of Fringe activities – and we, the Fringe audience, applaud them too for their tireless behind the scenes work for the festival over the past 20 years. ■ Cashiers at Bath Building Society have undertaken British Sign Language (BSL) at Work training to improve services for deaf customers in their Bath branches. Staff undertook a six week programme to equip them with the right sign language to communicate with their deaf and hard of hearing customers. Jonathan Cook, community and retail operations manager at Bath Building Society, said: “Sign language is a skill which has not only improved our customer service but has helped us build closer personal relationships with our deaf customers.”
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which will run from 15 to 25 November. The deadline for the scripts is 15 April. Once received they will be whizzed over to the creative writing team at Bath Spa University who will whittle them down to the top three. The three selected screenplays will be rehearsed by the performing arts crew at the university who will give a read through of the top scripts, in front of a panel of industry judges and a live audience. The judges and the audience will vote for the winning script. The second competition, The IMDb New
Filmmaker’s Award of £1,000 is for the most creative, original and inspired short film received between now and September 21. Bath Film Festival’s programming committee will watch the films and select the best five. These will be screened during Bath Film Festival in front of an audience and a panel of industry judges. The winner receives £1,000 cash to go towards their next film and Bath Film Festival will help to get their winning film screened at other film festivals. To put the cherry on the cake, each winner will also receive an IMDb enamel badge, which even Indiana Jones hasn’t got hold of yet (Lost Ark? Pah!). Just remember, everyone started somewhere. Christopher Nolan who made the last three Batman movies, Inception and Memento made his first short film aged 19, and is now possibly the most successful film director on the planet at the age of 41. No one is born to be a film director or scriptwriter. They had an idea, put the time in, and got a break. If you’ve got an idea and want to put the time in, this could be your break.
BATH PEOPLE
Award for farm shop
news & views
Running for good causes Good luck to three members of the team at the King William pub in London Road, who have been training and are running the Bath Half Marathon; manager Emily Taylor, kitchen assistant Alex Gyarko and owner Charlie Digney are running to raise money for Dorothy House and the Save The Children African famine appeal and have set themselves a target of £5,000. Alex, who recently joined the King William, is a member of the British Commonwealth judo team and galvanised the team into getting fit. Running the half marathon seemed a challenging goal. This is an exciting time for the team as the King William has just won 41st place in the Top 50 Gastro Pubs 2012. ● Matt and Liz Johns, directors of Limpley Stoke based Johns Associates environmental consultants are running the London Marathon in April to raise money for the charity Shooting Star CHASE. The couple were touched by the amazing kindness and support of staff at CHASE when they sadly lost their goddaughter Lilia, aged just three, to a rare form of childhood cancer. Shooting Star CHASE supports patients and their families during the hardest of times, yet receives almost no Government funding. Further details can be found on the Just Giving page: www.justgiving.com/company/johnsassociates
Congratulations to the team at Farrington’s farm shop at Farrington Gurney, pictured, who have picked up the UK Farm Retailer of the Year at the 2012 UK Farm Retail Awards from FARMA (The National Farmers’ Retail and Markets’ Association) as part of the Farm & More, at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre. The awards, known as the FARMAs recognise those farm shops, farmers’ markets, pick-your own and farm attraction sites which exemplify a passion for local food, a commitment to the farming and the environment, and a talent for retail. Farrington’s first won this award in 2004. It has also been acclaimed by the Countryside Alliance as British Champion – Local Food. The farm shop has recently added a café and a new butchery counter, as well as encouraging enterprise by providing retail space for many small, local businesses. Owners Tish and Andy Jeffery are thrilled. Andy said: “In these harsh economic times, every retailer has had to work a lot harder to keep its business buoyant. Farrington’s is no exception, and this award recognises the dedication of our hardworking team and the tremendous loyalty of our wonderful customers who appreciate fresh, local food. We are very grateful for their continued support.”
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BUSINESSmatters
ADV ERT OR I AL F EATURE
IS YOUR BUSINESS ON THE RIGHT TRACK? Is your business on the right track or is it heading for the buffers? It is even more important in these tough times for new businesses to be fully aware of the obstacles to success.
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ox Tunnel Railways was started by Dave Curtis in 2011. Dave has had an interest in model railways for over 45 years and when he was made redundant in 2011 he seized the opportunity to develop this interest commercially. Dave had worked with accountants for many years as an IT manager and immediately turned for advice to Mike Richardson and Derek Swift of Richardson Swift Chartered Accountants with whom he had previously worked until 2009. Dave was keen to ensure that his business started on the right track and would steam ahead in a controlled and structured way. With Mike and Derek’s encouragement and support he took a unit at the Dick Willows Centre on the A4 in Bathford and his business has gone from strength to strength. His shop carries all makes of model railways, locomotives, rolling stock, train sets and accessories together with original paintings from local artists, photographs and books. Dave is also thoroughly enjoying being part of the Dick Willows community. Talking through Dave’s plans, Mike and Derek advised him on all aspects of tax, VAT and finance WWW.THEBATHMAGAZINE.CO.UK
planning and actively supported his on-line activity to boost sales and now Dave has a healthy internet business supplementing the shop. With the vast majority of Dave’s stock being second hand it became clear early on that buying and pricing was going to be the key to the success of the venture. Dave says that “it was difficult initially to treat the venture as a business, a lot of early stock was my own that I had collected over many years and I found it hard to treat the stock as a business commodity. Derek and Mike have coached me to look upon my stock differently and I am now reaping the rewards. They also encouraged me to ensure that my bookkeeping was efficient so that I could track which items made the most margin”. Richardson Swift are delighted to be working alongside Dave, and Derek says, “everything points to a successful future for Box Tunnel Railways, all the early signals are positive as Dave has the right platform for success!” Richardson Swift wishes Dave every success in the future and believes that like Box Tunnel Railways, their own business is also on the right track. Mike or Derek would love the opportunity to talk to and be part of your own business.
For information about Richardson Swift contact Mike or Derek on info@richardsonswift.co.uk or call 01225 325580
www.richardsonswift.co.uk 11 Laura Place, Bath BA2 4BL. 01225 325 580 For information about Box Tunnel Railways check the website www.boxtunnelrailways.com or call Dave on 07801 508696, or drop in!
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YOURfuture
Potential scrapping of higher rate tax relief on pension contributions
THE PERFECT HOME OFFICE Bath based company, Workingstyle Interiors offers solutions for creating the perfect environment for working from home
Roger Perry, a director at Monahans Financial Services discusses the rumour that the Chancellor will scrap higher rate tax relief on personal pension contributions at the March Budget. This has been talked about in the past when it was then seen as a tactic by advisers to drum up business on a “buy now whilst stocks last” basis. However if this change does happen, pension tax relief may be restricted without warning on budget day and therefore you may wish to consider making a pension contribution sooner rather than later. Why? There has been significant “noise” in Westminster, with Mr Laws MP asking what appear to be loaded questions about the tax savings that could be made. The figures he has been given have been described as an “open goal” for the government in the current climate of austerity and bankers’ bonuses etc. These savings could be as much as: • If they scrap higher rate relief - £5bn savings • If they scrap higher rate relief for those earning over £100k - £3.6bn savings We have already seen HMRC cut the maximum annual contribution from £255,000 to £50,000 and he also asked what savings could be made if this were to be reduced further: • If they reduce the annual allowance to £40k - £600m savings • If they reduce the annual allowance to £30k - £1.6bn - £2bn savings
Creating a contemporary office in a classic regency library
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orking from home isn’t always the relaxing experience one envisages. The regular tea breaks, jaunts around the garden and lazy lunches are more likely replaced by noisy children, troublesome pets and a string of interruptions. Creating an effective working environment at home is no easy task but Lynette Labuschagne, who runs Workingstyle Interiors aims to do just that. Workingstyle Interiors is an expert in residential and commercial interiors, and follow a simple philosophy: listening to the client and achieving affordable quality solutions, while it’s partner company, South West Office Furniture, can help with all kinds of office furniture. Lynette outlines three basic first steps to creating a home office you’ll enjoy working in as well as being a positive aid to your business. Firstly invest in a good office chair to avoid those common office ailments of back pain and eye strain. Secondly, purge your office of clutter. The key to minimal storage is a planned filing system, so clear your office for a more efficient space to work in. Finally, check your equipment regularly and make sure it meets the relevant health and safety guidelines. Health and safety is just as important in the home as it is in an office environment. For more information, advice or for a free consultation contact Workingstyle Interiors, 124 Wellsway, Bath. Tel: 01225 445 487. www.workingstyle.co.uk ■
If you think these changes may affect you, please contact me to discuss how we can help with your pension planning. To arrange a free initial meeting, call Roger Perry on (01225) 785570 or email him at roger.perry@monahans-fsl.co.uk
www.monahans-fsl.co.uk
Monahans Financial Services Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.
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Minimalist wi-fi home office
Recycled office underneath the stairs. The desk is a Victorian kitchen table cut in half
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LEGALmatters
ADV ERT OR I AL FEATURE
THINKING OF TAKING PENALTY POINTS FOR SOMEONE ELSE? THINK AGAIN!
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here has been a great deal of recent publicity surrounding the Chris Huhne speeding case, where the former energy secretary is accused of persuading his ex-wife Vicky Pryce to take points, that should have been placed on his driving licence, in order to avoid a ban. Both of them have been charged with perverting the course of justice and are now due to appear before Southwark Crown Court on the 2nd March 2012. If found guilty there is a very real chance of prison.
mother, running a business and living ‘in the sticks’, she would be lost without her licence. Thirdly, people think that they will not get caught. However speed cameras are always improving in relation to the images that they take. Sarah Williams was shown a photograph taken by the speed camera at the police station. She said ‘the picture was so good that I could have framed it and put it on my mantelpiece’. The importance of contacting a solicitor
Such matters are not limited to the home of MP’s. Many of us have received, at some time or other, a request in the post asking for us to disclose who was driving a vehicle which has been caught speeding on camera. In a survey last summer two thirds of motorists said that they would be willing to take on penalty points for a friend to ensure that person was not disqualified from driving. Yet, where the police suspect that this has taken place the accused may be pursued for perverting the course of justice and if found guilty a prison sentence is often likely. Why do people lie about who was speeding? Research suggests around 300,000 drivers have accepted points on their licence when a friend was caught speeding. The reasons why, despite the high risks, so many people choose to go down this route are mixed. Firstly, it appears that some people are simply oblivious to the consequences. A prime example of this was illustrated in an article in the Daily Mail last year where Sarah Williams, a successful business woman running her own marketing business, persuaded her elderly mother to agree to take penalty points for her after being caught on camera. They were both charged with perverting the course of justice. Sarah Williams said at the time she originally made the request of her mother, ‘to be honest I did not think it was a big deal…..’ She clearly had no idea they could be looking at a prison sentence. Secondly, people are often so desperate not to be disqualified because of their own circumstances that they are prepared to lie. Sarah Williams already had nine penalty points on her licence and if she had accepted the speeding matter herself would probably have received at least a six month ban. She knew however that as a single WWW.THEBATHMAGAZINE.CO.UK
So what should you do if you receive a notice through your door asking you to identify the driver in relation to a speeding matter? In this situation it is often advisable to seek advice from a specialist road traffic solicitor. At Motoring Law Defence we advise many clients faced with this type of allegation as it can often be a confusing process. By law you must name the person who was driving at the time of the alleged speeding offence on the received form and return the form fully completed within the required time period, this normally being 28 days. Not to return the form fully completed within this time period is an offence, which in itself, carries six penalty points and a discretion to disqualify. If you cannot complete the form because you simply can’t remember, or do not know, who was driving at that time then normally we would request photographic evidence on your behalf from the police in relation to that particular camera. If the photographs are not clear enough for identification purposes then you may have a defence in relation to not completing the form naming the driver if the magistrates can be persuaded that you could not, with reasonable diligence, have ascertained who the driver was. Even if you name yourself as the driver there may be a defence to the matter of speeding if the speed measuring device can be proved to be faulty or incorrectly used by the police. If you acknowledge that you were speeding there may be a defence if you are the registered keeper of the vehicle, you were not stopped at the time of the alleged speeding, and no notice of the possibility of prosecution was sent to you within 14 days of the offence.
If you find yourself in a position where you do not have a defence for the speeding allegation and you end up receiving penalty points, which in turn pushes your total points up to 12 or more we may still be able to save your licence. Normally, in such circumstances at least a six month ban would be imposed. However, we may be able to argue exceptional hardship on behalf of yourself and others. If we succeeded in relation to such an argument then the magistrates would normally not disqualify you. Typical arguments that are used to try and persuade the magistrates that exceptional hardship exists could be for example that if you were disqualified you would lose your job, or it would be difficult to visit vulnerable relatives, or there could be problems taking children to their destination. At Motoring Law Defence we know how important your licence is to you. So please do not hesitate to contact Philip Hatvany road traffic solicitor for free initial advice on 01225 442925 or via email at advice@motoringlawdefence.com
Philip Hatvany, Road Traffice Solicitor at Motoring Law Defence
2-4 Henry Street Bath, BA1 1JT T: 01225 442925 www.motoringlawdefence.com Motoring Law Defence is a division of Mowbray Woodwards Solicitors MARCH 2012
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ADVERTORIAL FEATURE
WHAT A GOOD ACCOUNTANT CAN ACHIEVE FOR YOUR BUSINESS AND FOR YOU PERSONALLY
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any business people find much of their time is taken up dealing with all of the day to day problems and opportunities that arise within their business and frequently business owners do not have the opportunity to think in any detail beyond the next few weeks or months. A good accountant will periodically focus business owners on what are their medium and long term aims and the potential impact of those aims on the business. The advising accountant must have a good understanding of the client’s business and of the individuals who run it and their plans and aspirations. These plans will not be “set in stone” and will of course be reviewed and revised as time passes. Different pressures and opportunities are likely to change the aims of the business owners and indeed of their families and their employees.
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As David Richards, a Partner at Pearson May explains: ‘‘There must, however, be an overall plan. For example, will the business be run until retirement and, if so, what is the projected retirement date? If that is the aim, what succession planning is required within the business, or will the business be sold? Succession planning from within the family will involve a number of different processes to those considered in respect of succession from within the workforce. Whatever the situation, however, a reasonable degree of long term planning will be required, part of it taxation planning to ensure that unexpected liabilities do not arise, and that those liabilities which can’t be mitigated are budgeted for. If the succession is to be from within the family, to what extent will the current business owners require ongoing funding from the business to provide for their lifestyle in retirement? How can this be planned and achieved? How can other family members, who will not be involved in the business, also be appropriately provided for financially in the longer term? If the succession plan is to be from within the
workforce how will the individuals concerned fund their eventual acquisition of the business? Government schemes such as the Enterprise Management Incentive scheme can help considerably with the mechanics of transferring the ownership of the business, but the funding either has to be located externally or the business itself has to generate sufficient excess funds to assist with the overall financial planning.’’ As will have been gathered from the above, much of this planning has to be put in place a number of years before the target date, and frequently involves consideration of the structure of the business and the basis of its long term funding. However, matters need to be kept in a flexible format so that if events do not progress as anticipated, it is still possible to change tack without too much cost or disruption. The above is for general guidance only and no action should be taken without obtaining specific advice. Pearson May Chartered Accountants and Chartered Tax Advisers, 37 Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DA T: 01225 460491 E: Mail@PearsonMay.co.uk W: www.PearsonMay.co.uk
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greenCITY
The Tax Year End – A Time To Make Plans The approach of the tax year end is an ideal time to review tax situations and lifetime financial plans to ensure you’re making the most of allowances, reliefs and exemptions, which might be available to you.
Martyn Laverick, Managing Director, Jelf Financial Planning.
As the 2011/12 tax year comes to a close; Jelf Financial Planning offers some questions to consider:
• Are you married or in a registered civil partnership? If yes, ensure that you use both of your income tax personal allowances for this tax year, totaling £7,475 each for 2011/12. • Are you losing some of your personal age allowance because your income is over the limit? If you are aged 65 or over your income tax personal allowance could be as high as £9,940 (or £10,090 if you are 75 or over).This could be the amount of income you could enjoy tax free. However, this allowance reduces by £1 for every £2 of total income you receive over £24,000 until it reduces to £7,475.This could mean that you are effectively paying 30% tax on some of your income, even as a basic rate taxpayer! • Do you have income of over £100,000 per annum? If so, you will also be losing your income tax personal allowance at the rate of £1 for every £2 of excess over £100,000, until you lose it completely.This will mean that you may be, effectively, paying tax at 60% on some of your income. • Have you used your full capital gains tax annual exemption for 2011/12? Everyone is entitled to realise £10,600 of gains from investments for this tax year without paying capital gains tax. If you are in a position to do this and have not yet done so you should look into this course of action. • Have you invested into a pension plan? Personal contributions to a registered pension scheme attract income tax relief within specific (generous) limits. • Have you considered ‘carry forward’ in pension planning? If you invest substantial amounts into a pension each year, you may be affected by the new much lower annual allowance of £50,000. If so, you may have some annual allowance from the previous three years to carry forward to enable you to exceed this year’s annual allowance without penalty. • Have you invested the maximum amount in your ISA? This type of investment allows for tax free income (apart from the tax already deducted from dividend payments) and growth within certain limits. This year, up to £10,680 can be invested (of which £5,340 can be in cash). There are now also Junior ISAs for any individual aged under 18 who does not have a Child Trust Fund. Up to £3,600 can be invested, with the same tax freedoms up until 5 April 2012. A further similar amount can be invested in next tax year. • Have you used your inheritance tax exemptions for this tax year? Each individual can gift up to £3,000 before 6 April 2012 without paying inheritance tax. It may also be possible to use any of last tax year’s exemption. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances, so it is vital to seek professional advice. If you would like to find out more, contact an Independent Adviser at Jelf’s Bath office on 01225 572000 or visit www.jelfgroup.com.
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EXTREME RECYCLING A
bike recycling business which began in a garden shed has grown into a thriving business which is also helping the Julian House charity, which works with homeless and vulnerable people in Bath. ReCYCLEd, the Bath bike workshop, takes in donated bikes and renovates them. If a bike can’t be put back into a roadworthy state, it can be used for spares or recyclable scrap metal. Practically nothing is wasted. Adam Read, workshop manager, said: “All our recycled, repaired and serviced bikes are certified safe by an experienced bike mechanic before they leave our premises. We also provide affordable repairs and servicing. We aim to turnaround most jobs within 24 hours but simple things like a puncture can often be fixed straight away. “And if you’re not in Bath, we also offer a mobile service in out-of-town campuses and villages. Bring your bike for repairs or service – if we can fix it on-the-spot, we will, if not we’ll bring it back to the workshop and return it to you in a few days. We can also pick up your unwanted bikes for recycling.” ReCYCLEd also sells new bikes and is a registered dealer for CycleScheme which enables employees get a discount on a new bike to ride to work. It stocks lights, locks, helmets, pumps, bells and much more – all at discount prices. Mark Wilson, who runs the accessories and parts shop was one of the first volunteers and now is employed. “I’m doing an NVQ in customer service which is opening my eyes to a lot of new ideas for the development of the retail side of the business.” Sue Lowman, social enterprise worker, said: “It all started little more than a year ago with a couple of volunteers fixing up their bikes in a tiny garden shed. If you want to learn how to do it yourself, contact us about our bike maintenance courses for beginners and for people who want to learn the finer points of customising.” The Corn Street workshop is open six days a week. Visitors can pop in for a chat about bikes, cycle routes and news in the cycling world. ■ 35 Corn Street Bath, BA1 1UF, tel: 01225 463350 email:bathbikeworkshop@gmail.com www.bath-bike-workshop.org.uk
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FAMILYfun
onth his m t e r t ea egg th in the o the t d a ectacle e p H s s u a circ uirk to see lest Q t it L of The story
Celebr a Garde te Mother’ s Day n in H ol at show her h t and creat the Court ow m e s a un uch y ou ca ique gift t o re
MAD MARCH The city has a range of events and activities on offer for the family to enjoy this month; from storytelling to dressing up and art workshops to music-making. Use our guide to help plan quality time with your little ones
Stories in the garden
Mother’s Day fun
The National Trust’s Prior Park Landscape Garden, Bath. Tel: 01225 833422
The National Trust Courts Garden, Holt, near Bradford on Avon. Tel: 01225 782875
Storytelling in the Summer House, Sunday 4 March, 1.30pm – 3.30pm
Make Mother’s Day, Sunday 18 March, 11am – 3pm
Listen to children’s outdoor tales told in the Prior Park summer house.
Meet the artist
Creating your own unique Mother’s Day gift – have a go at decorating a cardboard box or picture frame using the old-fashioned technique of decoupage.
The Holburne Museum, Bath. Cost: £2. Tel: 01225 466 669.
Family-friendly theatre
I’m a Textile Artist with Lotte Harding, Sunday 25 March, 2.30pm – 3.30pm
The egg, Theatre Royal Bath, Sawclose, Bath. Box office tel: 01225 448844 www.theatreroyal.org.uk
Contemporary weaver Lotte Harding shares her skills at the loom as you weave your own purse, cushion or patch pocket.
Music making Wiltshire Music Centre, Ashley Road, Bradford on Avon. Box office tel: 01225 860100 or visit: www.wiltshiremusiccentre.org.uk
The Music Factory, Saturday 24 March, 3pm Breaking music down to its bare bones, Calefax’s five brilliant musicians show how sound is just vibrating air and how notes can be changed simply by using different lengths of tubing. They will also perform a delightful 20 minute extract from the The Music Factory, a mimed musical play for children. Suitable for children aged 5+.
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One Little Word, Wednesday 7 – Saturday 10 March, Wednesday – Friday, 10.30am & 1pm; Saturday, 11.30am & 3pm
world, captured in a vivid circus spectacle. Suitable for ages 4+.
The Owl and the Pussycat, Saturday 24 March, 11.30am & 3pm Follow Owl and Pussycat as they set out on the high seas with only some honey, money and a runcible spoon to help them find their way through a topsy-turvy world. Enjoy silly songs, babbling puppets, live music and beautiful storytelling in this enchanting retelling of Edward Lear’s classic poem.
Preparing for Easter The Museum of East Asian Art, Bennett Street, Bath. Free, but space is limited. Tel: 01225 464640, www.meaa.org.uk
Easter Workshop, Saturday 31 March, 2pm – 4pm
A gentle story of friendship, power struggles and the world of creative play. Devised by internationally renowned M6 Theatre Company, One Little Word captivates children’s imaginations with a moving story told with original music and just one spoken word. Suitable for ages 3+.
Make this Easter into origami season by creating rabbits, chicks, baskets and egg-cups from paper cuts.
The Littlest Quirky, Friday 16 & Saturday 17 March, Friday, 10.30am & 1pm; Saturday, 11.30am & 3pm
Become a Gorgeous Georgian Workshop, Saturday 31 March, 2pm – 4pm
A magical tale of a child’s discovery of the
Dress up workshop No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath. Family events are free with normal admission
Dress up as a Georgian and have your face painted with white makeup, rouge and lipstick, and a beauty spot. Then learn the language of the fan and make your own to take home.
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Are you hosting International students?
dance dance movement
voice
therapy centre
BRISTOL B ASED MASTERS PROGRAMME IN DANCE MOVEMENT PSYCHOTHE RAPY Validated by Canterbury Christ Church University INTERVIEWING NOW for October 2012 intake and
We are currently looking for caring hosts who can welcome one or more students aged 13 – 18 in Bath during June, July and August. Please contact Dawn Bennett on 07771 279608 or email bathhostfamilies@elac.co.uk
NATIONAL CERTIFICATE IN DANCE MOVEMENT and the THERAPEUTIC PROCESS (BTEC) 1 year programme starts September
Ffi: Dance Voice, Quaker Meeting House, Wedmore Vale, Bedminster, Bristol. BS3 5HX tel: 0117 953 2055 e-mail: admin@dancevoice.org.uk www.dancevoice.org.uk
Accredited by the VACATIONS
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Curtain UpTheatre School Part time theatre school for children 6 to 18 years Schools in Bath and Melksham
Call Sarah for details of a free trial session for your child 01761 239185 admin@curtainup.org.uk www.curtainup.org.uk
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EDUCATIONnews
Children offered chance for adventure in the great outdoors Get back to nature and learn how to survive in the wild at a new camp set in 80 acres of woodland near Bath, which is promising the perfect mix of nature and adventure when it opens in time for the Easter holidays. Hidden Woods is being run by Steve Sutherland, pictured, who will be organising bushcraft events for children and parents. Steve, who went to King Edward’s School, said: “We have created a lovely camp with lots of ‘wow’ features. It’s in an area of stunning woodland, complete with mighty oaks and
babbling brooks. “Activities will include shelter building, fire lighting, camp fire cooking and much more. We’ll also be offering family weekends, a Forest School Saturday club and bushcraft birthday parties.” An experienced outdoor instructor, overseas expedition leader and Forest School practitioner, Steve grew up in Bath before leaving to pursue a career in the outdoor activity industry. Most recently, he played a key role in the development of award-winning forest adventure company, Go
Ape. Having just returned to the area with his young family, he is now hoping to have similar success with Hidden Woods. He said: “Today’s children have fewer opportunities to engage with the natural world than their parents did, despite the fact that there is clear evidence that it is essential for our physical and emotional health. We hope to play our part in helping to redress this imbalance whilst having a lot of fun along the way.” For further information visit: www.hiddenwoods.co.uk or tel: 01225 463823.
New head at the helm
Joint open day ■ There is the chance for parents to find out more about more than 25 independent senior schools from across the south west, all under one roof, on Saturday 24 March. The schools day is being held at All Hallows School in East Cranmore, near Shepton Mallet from 10am until 1.30pm. It is a great opportunity to speak directly to key personnel about their schools and to collect information. No tickets are required and all are welcome. Schools represented include: Badminton School, Bruton School for Girls, Bryanston School, Chilton Cantelo School, Dauntsey’s School, Downside School, King’s School, Bruton, King Edward’s School, Bath, Kingswood School, Leweston School, Millfield, Milton Abbey School, Prior Park College, Sherborne School, Sidcot School, Stonar School, Taunton School, The Godolphin School, The Royal High School, Bath, Wells Cathedral School and Westonbirt School. For more information about the day contact info@allhallowsschool.co.uk
Spirit of enterprise As part of the Young Enterprise initiative, sixth form girls at Westonbirt School near Tetbury have registered a company selling ethical and unique products. Under the leadership of managing director and Year 12 pupil Lucy Fenn, Meronepali (roughly translated as ‘My Nepal’) sells clothing, accessories, notebooks, hair ties and stationery, sourced directly from manufacturers in Nepal. With guidance from industry professionals Simon Herbert and Professor Bill Fairney, Meronepali has sold shares, raised capital, attended craft fairs and raised £1,500. The girls are preparing for the national Young Enterprise competition. The winner will represent Gloucestershire in the regional finals and possibly the world finals in September. The girls plan to donate a percentage of their assets to a community centre in Nepal.
The Paragon School in Lyncombe, Bath, will have a new head teacher from September, with the appointment of Andrew Harvey, pictured, who will succeed Titus Mills. Titus is leaving to become head teacher at Hordle Walhampton Prep School in the New Forest. The new head is married to Anna and the couple have two daughters, Imogen, five, and Sophie, three. Andrew was an officer in the Royal Dragoon Guards before going into education and is currently deputy head at Lambrook Prep School, Berkshire.
Songs for the Queen Bath’s Golden Oldies charity has enrolled the support of several dozen schools in the city and surrounding area for its Jubilee Time After Time schools project being staged this year to mark the Queen’s 60th anniversary. Funded with lottery money the project will encourage school pupils to work with elderly people. Visit: www.jubiletimeaftertime.org.uk for details.
School makes a sound investment Monkton Senior School just outside Bath has just unveiled a new £3.2m music centre, where pupils can enjoy using a 100-seat rehearsal hall complete with a new Steinway Model B grand piano, percussion and rock studios, and recording and production rooms. The completion of the new block is a key milestone in the development of the school’s music teaching. George Bevan, director of music, said: “All pupils at Monkton should have the opportunity to make and enjoy music, and to
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develop their full potential in this key subject regardless of age, ability or background.” Other projects completed in recent years include a £4.1m maths and science centre, and an all weather hockey pitch. Since 2004, Monkton has invested over £12m in new facilities. The official opening of the new centre will take place on Saturday 2 June, with a day of celebration, including the appearance of special guests, including alumni of Monkton Combe School. IMPRESSIVE: the new £3.2m music centre at Monkton Senior School
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LOCAL
PARTDISTRIBUTORS TIME
5 to 10 hours a month - Excellent rates of pay
GOOD HOURLY RATES Would you like to join us in the distribution of our wonderful magazine? We currently have a few vacancies to cover some small delivery areas in and around Bath during week days ideal for a husband and wife team. You will need to be fit, trustworthy and reliable, prepared to spend a little time and extra effort ensuring that an accurate delivery of our magazine is always achieved. You will need to have use of a car, a mobile. Sorry no children. Driving time included
CALL STEVE on 01225 424499 WWW.THEBATHMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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FIT&FABULOUS
SO YOU’RE RUNNING A HALF MARATHON . . . Long distance runner Liz Yelling who holds the women’s record for the Bath Half Marathon (69mins, 27secs) offers advice to runners ahead of this year’s city half marathon on Sunday 11 March, which will begin at 11am a favourite pair of running shoes but they’re getting Q Ia have bit old and battered. How often should I replace my running shoes and is it OK to buy them online? Liz says: Typically a pair of running shoes should last you around 400-500 miles. The more you wear your shoes the more quickly they will wear out. If they look worn out, the grip on the bottom has worn down and the foam in the cushioning is full of lines and easy to compress then you need a new pair. If you think they are old and battered they probably are. Buying your shoes online is OK if they are a shoe that you are familiar with, and have tried them on for size. If you are new to buying running shoes then your best bet is to get to a specialist store. When I get to about halfway round the race course I always feel I can’t go on - have you got any mental or physical tricks I can do to keep me going? We all need a tool box of mental talk to get us through the tough moments. When you reach half way or feel tired, set your self targets to reach, eg to run the next mile, and then tell yourself you will have a reassessment when you have done that. The trick is to then keep setting yourself these goals until you make it to the finish line. Talk to yourself in your head and tell yourself that you can do it. It is normal to experience a little discomfort, but that’s why you’re doing it, no challenge comes easy. You can also distract yourself from the fatigue and draw inspiration other runners and from the crowd.You CAN do it. Think back to times when it felt tough before and you pulled through and did it. You can do it again. Break the run up into sections that feel more manageable to achieve the full distance. I really want to do a PB (personal best) time. What are the best ways to improve my speed in training so I’ll be superfast on the day? To get a PB the best way is to build on the training you did last time and to do some specific speed or paced running in your weekly schedule. Try doing some intervals at a pace that is faster than your half marathon pace. Gradually increase the distance and duration of your accumulative intervals until you are running about four to six miles of intervals. You’ve got to run at the pace you want to run on race day (and faster!) so that come race day it feels easier. Your training prepares you for what’s to come and on race day you simply deliver what you know you can do. I’ve been training for my first half marathon and, with a couple of weeks to go, I’ve only managed a nine mile run, will I be all right to do 13 on the day? Yes, you’ll be totally fine. A nine mile run is adequate for the half marathon, especialy if this is your first time. It is more about the accumulation of training, and having had consistent running over a number of weeks, it is not just about the longest run that you have done. Once you have tapered in the final week, get your pacing right on the day, the crowds and the excitement of the day will carry you round the full distance. When watching the Bath Half I feel I would like to train and run the next one but I have done very little running before. How do I best get started and how long will it take me to train from scratch to run a half marathon?
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really depends on your current fitness levels, history of A This exercise and motivation and time to train. If you have the desire to run then you just need to start very gradually with some walking and building a routine for exercise. Once you have built a routine of walking for a couple of weeks, you can then start to introduce small sections of running into your walk. Over time, gradually decrease the walking and build the running. Before you know it you will be running for 30 minutes without stopping. The key with building fitness is to be very gradual and to take your time. If you start from a solid base of fitness then 10-12 weeks is enough to get you round. If you’ve got more work to do then I’d allow a little longer. What should I have for breakfast before the big race? My mum says I should take something like jelly babies to eat on the way round. I’ve told her the top athletes don’t eat anything on the way round - but should I listen to Mum? A light carbohydrate breakfast is best. Cereals and toast or porridge are perfect examples. Make sure you eat 2-3 hours before the start of the race to allow the food to digest. It’s best to find out what works for you in training. It is also important to be hydrated on the start line – drink little and often the day before. Then you only have to drink a little bit in the morning. Most people have enough fuel on board to run a half marathon. If you are running the half marathon in over 90 minutes then it may be a good idea to take a gel or some jelly babies to top your energy levels up at the halfway point. Practise this on your training runs. I’m not running this year but I am going along to support some colleagues who are running, where in Bath should I stand to cheer them on – at the start, the end or along the route? I would advise you go and stand further along the route, as the course is two laps, bar the first and last miles. If you get a good position you should be able to see your colleagues a couple of times. ■
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The 31st Bath Half Marathon starts from Great Pulteney Street at 11am on Sunday 11 March. Roads will be closed in the city centre that morning. For information and a route map visit: www.bathhalf.co.uk
INSPIRATIONAL: Liz Yelling, who is hoping to win a place for this summer’s London Olympics, will be running this year’s Bath Half Marathon as part of her training schedule
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Beautiful villa in Sainte-Maxime, South of France The House
Sleeps 8, 4 bedrooms, 4 bath/shower rooms, private swimming pool. The house and its 2000 m2 private landscaped garden are situated at the end of a cul-de-sac in a peaceful, wooded residential area with views from the villa of the Gulf and village of St Tropez. The town centre with its marina, beach and many shops is within comfortable walking distance. From the port, St Tropez is 15 minutes by ferry across the bay. The property was recently renovated to a high standard providing 4 double/twin bedrooms (all with en-suite bath or shower room), living and dining areas and fully equipped modern kitchen. The dining room opens directly onto a covered dining terrace with table and chairs for 8 people.
Garden and Pool
Access to the property is through remotely-controlled gates to a private drive, leading to a turning area and car park for up to 4 cars. Terraced flower-beds slope down to the pool are and lower garden which is bounded by a small stream. The heated pool measures 10m x 4.5 m, has steps and a removable ladder and a solar powered cover for security and to keep the water warm over night. The pool is surrounded by a paved sunterrace, lawns, olive and other fruit trees. The terrace is equipped with tables and chairs, a sun-shade and full-length sun loungers for all 8 guests. There is a pool kitchen with poolside glasses and a small fridge for cold drinks, a shower and WC. In addition to the pool and dining terraces, a further sun terrace is located at mid-level, and may also be accessed directly from the master bedroom. The pool, garden drive and car park are equipped with feature lighting, and movement sensor security lights are located outside the house.
For reservation Enquiries contact 00 33 494 96 62 24
www.sainte-maxime-holidays.com
This Mother’s Day give mum a present that lasts forever...
STUDIO
Family portrait session from just ÂŁ29 Call Marko on 01225 428881
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www.studiomarko.com MARCH 2012
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Glow from within
F
or spring 2012 Bobbi Brown makeup has taken inspiration from the fresh new beginnings that this time of year brings, and has launched a Brightening Nudes Collection. Each piece creates an effect that’s sheer and luminous – as if you’re naturally lit from within. Think glowing skin, sparkling eyes and lush lips. Dazzle in the sunlight and make all your friends envious of your healthy glow. Pop in to Jolly’s for more information and to get your hands on these fabulous items that are makeup bag must-haves in March. Sheer and silky, the Brightening Finishing Powder, right, £40, features six shades that blend together to illuminate the skin and instantly brighten the complexion for a natural, healthy looking finish. Encased in a portable compact for easy on-thego application
▲ The sheer, reflective formula of the Brightening Lip Gloss, £17, wakes up the face and helps create the illusion of fuller lips. The soft shades leave lips looking perfectly pearlescent. Wear alone or on top of your favourite lipstick
SKIN DEEP The latest health and beauty news and product reviews from Samantha Ewart, including Mother’s Day gift ideas
▲
IT’S MOTHER DAY: so mums, put your feet up and relax with a cup of peach and cherry blossom green tea (£1.39 for a box of 20 tea bags) from Twinings’ new green tea range which has been refreshed with authentic and natural ingredients. One sip and you’ll be floating on your very own cloud. And if you’re really lucky, you’ll receive a Washing Up Fairy Bubble Bar Wand from one of your little ones (Dads, take note) so you won’t have to lift a finger. A charming and perfect pocket money gift (£3.75) from Lush, it’s a solid washing up wand that you can swirl around the water to create bubbles with a gorgeously unmistakable Lush scent. It produces a surprising amount of lather and is effective as well as being extra kind to hardworking hands
Berkeley Square cosmetics company has introduced something special to its awardwinning 1920s range – a collection of luxurious skincare products and a perfume made from essential oils under the name of Black Cassis. The sensual fragrance of blackcurrant, lavender, patchouli and vetivert is glamorous and elegant and together with the 1920s inspired artwork, captures the true essence of the period. Available from Harvey Nichols, Bristol
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New for April, Estée Lauder has introduced a new Pure Color Blush (£24, available at Jolly’s from April) to give cheeks a fresh, radiant colour in a new palette of shades. This ultra-silky powder blush adds instant sheen and dimension to the face, whether you want a soft flush or a dramatic contour that lasts all day
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Turn a warm bath into a wonderful aromatherapy experience with the help of the Aromatherapy Associates miniature bath and shower oil collection (£28.50 for 9 x 3ml bottles from Space NK). The set contains award-winning blends of natural oils with different fragrances to help you relax, destress, revive or support
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BathFacial
Clinics are held at Fairfield Park Health Centre, Camden Road, Bath BA1 6EA
A E S T H E T I C S
Lyndhurst Upper Rooms 16a Upper Oldfield Park, Bath BA2 3JZ
Specialising in non surgical facial treatments Including • Wrinkle reducing injections • Restylane and Juvederm dermal fillers • Skin peels • Medical Microdermabrasion • Cosmeceutical skin care products • Treatments to reduce excessive sweating • Sculptra • Genuine Dermaroller All treatments are with Dr Marie-Claire Hamling MBBS (Guys) MRCGP an approved Restylane & Juvederm Practitioner with advanced training in the medical & cosmetic use of Botox For more information visit www.bathbotox.co.uk phone 01225 335033 or email info@bathfacialaesthetics.co.uk to book a free consultation
MOTHERS DAY PACKAGE (Also available as a gift voucher) Available 12th - 21st March
30 mins Facial • 30 mins Massage • File & Polish • £65.00
Happy Mothers Day! green street house, 14 green street, bath BA1 2JZ Tel: 01225 426000 Email: info@greenstreethouse.com www.greenstreethouse.com * No two offers can be used together
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TIPS FROM A TRAINER In the first of a regular feature, our fitness and nutrition expert, Paul Isaacs, exposes some of those exercise myths that can prevent us from achieving our goals
■ Myth 1: long workouts are good for you Longer workouts don’t guarantee success. Keep them to 45-60 minutes maximum for best results. For cardio exercise, try short spells of interval training at a high intensity.
■ Myth 2: rest days are bad for you Your muscles grow during rest periods. If you don’t rest, your work will be wasted. Rest time allows tissue repair to occur. Without significant rest, you will see decreased performance and a risk of injury.
■ Myth 3: Isolated exercises are good for you Instead, try exercises which stimulate many muscles, like squats or dead lifts. Using these types of exercises will dramatically accelerate your results.
■ Myth 4: it’s best to work out with machines This can limit your ability to fully activate muscle fibres, equating to less fat burn and less muscle definition. Try free weights instead and undertake exercises that enable you to use a full range of movement.
■ Myth 5: crunches + sit-ups = six-pack The key to getting sculpted abs is to burn off the stubborn layer of fat hiding them. This is best achieved through a good cardio programme and a proper nutrition plan.
■ Myth 6: repetition is good If you repeat the same workouts, you will stop getting results. Try progressive and varied routines. Keep challenging yourself and keep your body guessing to avoid the dreaded plateau.
■ Myth 7: going to a gym is the best way to get fit Research has shown that some people find it easier to stick to a homebased fitness programme. In spite of all the hype surrounding trendy exercise equipment and regimes, the best programme for you is the one that you will participate in consistently.
For further information, contact Paul Isaacs Personal Training on tel: 01225 290588 or visit: www.paulisaacspt.com 78 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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do
you
have
unwanted hair?
facial thread veins?
tired looking skin?
Have you ever considered IPL permanent hair reduction? IPL Hair Reduction is the most effective treatment for unwanted hair on the face and body with approx 6 sessions needed to achieve permanent hair reduction
• Very safe • Very gentle • Very effective
Special offer A course of 6 x underarm & bikini line treatments £399 A course of 6 x 1/2 leg treatments £499 All offers are only available until the 31st March 2012
Have you ever considered IPL treatment? • Very safe • Very gentle
Book now and receive
£25 off
your first treatment the orangery &
b e a u t y
Microdermabrasion is a technique that uses a controlled jet of fine crystals vacuumed across the skin to remove dead and damaged skin cells
This treatment is ideal for
• Very effective
l a s e r
Have you considered Microdermabrasion?
c l i n i c
Tel: 01225 466851 No.2 Kingsmead St. Bath.
www.theorangerylaserclinicbath.co.uk
• Fine Lines • Sun damage • Acne • Scarring • Pigmentation • Open pores Your skin will be left feeling vibrant & healthy
3 for 2 on microdermabrasion treatments All offers are only available until the 31st March 2012
A Special treat for your Mother
on Mothers Day!
Tel: 01225 462 462 The Old Post Office, High St, Bathampton, BA2 6SY Visit www.handsonhealthbath.co.uk for a full list of treatments.
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Mum
Lose Weight Effectively With Hypnotherapy
Eyebrow shape, mini manicure and shoulder and neck massage
£30
De-stressing back treatment, revitalising facial and mini manicure
£50
‘Being guided to think about things in a new, different way was unexpected but delightful... thank you for all your wonderful help.’ - Weight Control Client, Weston Bath
the orangery l a s e r
&
b e a u t y
c l i n i c
No.2 Kingsmead St. Bath.
Tel: 01225 466851 www.theorangerylaserclinicbath.co.uk
This offer is only available until Saturday the 17th March 2012
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For your free consultation call
01225 484938
Phil Mattingly LHA E.Hyp Registered Hypnotherapist www.philmattingly.com
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HEALTH&BEAUTY
SAY GOODBYE TO THE FUZZ
A Bath beauty salon offers a permanent hair removal treatment which is proving popular with women of all ages and, increasingly men too
B
eautiful, soft, smooth skin is what most women aspire to, which is why we spend so much of our time waxing, plucking, shaving and applying creams and potions to achieve this. But, imagine a life when you didn’t have to go for a bikini wax before going on holiday, or never having to check your underarms to make sure they’re fuzz free before putting on a sleeveless summer top. Our quest for the best delipatory products to permanently and effectively remove body and face hair has led more and more people to turn to laser treatment. It’s non invasive, chemical free and relatively painless. It also, over a series of sessions, leaves the area permanently and beautifully smooth. What’s not to like? The Orangery in Bath is seeing an increase in the number of people – men as well as women – using laser treatment to remove unwanted hair. The trained laser technicians, Lynnsay and Hannah, carefully explain to clients exactly how the Ellipse IPL machine works. Now, here’s the science bit: to achieve long lasting or permanent hair reduction, it is necessary to destroy the hair follicle from which individual hairs grow. Well controlled pulses of light penetrate the upper skin layer and are absorbed by one of the body’s own natural chemicals – melanin – in the hair contained in the follicle. Melanin converts the light energy into heat. This heat is transferred to the hair follicle, which is destroyed, making it unable to produce a new hair. The treatment is only effective on growing hairs as these are still attached to the follicle. The majority of our hair is in the resting phase which explains why more than one treatment is necessary. This technique is called Selective Photothermolysis. It depends on how dark your skin tone is as to what energy setting is used. I tried a test session and felt only a mild and fleeting sensation of heat on my underarm when Lynnsay used the hand-held device to my skin. The skin is protected with a layer of gel. Some people feel the heat more than others. You also have to be careful about sunbathing or using sunbeds for a month either side of treatment – it pays to read the conditions. But you can keep the skin hair free between treatments as shaving is fine and the hair needs to be as short as possible for the light beam to be effective. Mothers in Bath have been treating their grown-up daughters to laser hair removal, seeing this as a lifelong gift they wish they’d had as young women. Wives are also sending their husbands along to have their hairy backs smoothed for all time. The salon staff are very friendly and approachable so people can arrange a free appointment to go and find out more and whether laser hair removal would be a suitable treatment for them. ■ GMc
Ellipse IPL laser hair removal, from around £100. The Orangery, 2 Kingsmead Square, Bath, tel: 01225 466851, visit: www.theorangerylaserclinicbath.co.uk WWW.THEBATHMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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Recline in style Make sure you’re sitting comfortably with this range of luxury armchairs in store this spring
IN THE TUB: a striking tub chair with a wooden rail. The design of the Brewster tub chair was inspired by a pair of small 1930’s chairs, which were scaled up to the perfect size. £2,640. Nina Campbell, shop online at www.ninacampbell.com. Tel: 020 7225 1011
CONTINENTAL: the Berlin range from TR Hayes, simple, stylish and effective. Chair from £699. 15-18 London Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 465 757. www.trhayes.co.uk
SHABBY CHIC: the traditional yet stylish Fulham leather chair, £999 from House of Fraser. Jolly’s, Milsom Street, Bath. Tel: 0844 8003704. www.houseoffraser.co.uk
PERSONAL PICKS: a timeless classic, the Roberto winged chair can be covered in a fabric of your choice, from £925. Fabric Mills, London Road, Bath. Tel: 01225 471167. www.fabricmills.co.uk
SHARP STYLE: designed by Hans Wegner in 1960, this is a real design piece. Prices start from £3000 from Shannon. 68 Walcot St, Bath. Tel: 01225 424 222. www.shannon-uk.com
READING TIME: The Amelia is a re-working of the classic 19th century English library chair, with brass stud detailing and a wide seat pad for comfort. Neptune Amelia armchair, in night sky fabric, available from Closa, the local Neptune premier partner, £475. Closa, Bristol Road, Allington, Chippenham. Tel: 01249 448 731. www.closa.co.uk 82 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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INTERIORfeatures
WONDER WALL
Following the UK’s recent reignited love of all things wallpaper, it seems some interior designers are going that one step further in their search for more unusual ways to dress your home’s walls. John Law, interior designer at Bath-based Woodhouse & Law tells us more.
R
ecent advances in technology have meant that we are now able to give walls so much more character, texture and individuality than before – taking them from just a blank backdrop for your pictures to a statement piece in themselves. Wall coverings can range from John Law, elegantly simple to the one-off Interior Designer extraordinary. Take for example, James Hare, a British fabric company established in 1865. They recently introduced the option to paperback any of its large range of silks, creating a wall covering with a wonderful natural feel and a lustrous finish. Adding new life and flexibility to a classic fabric, this offering has taken silk wall coverings beyond the realm of French châteaux and stately homes. Should you be feeling more daring, however, consider the whole range of options opened up by the development of digital print. We now have access to a wealth of images from anything from museum collections to Marvel comics. Woodhouse & Law have recently installed a 2.4 metre wide mural as part of an offbeat dining room scheme, using an image from The National Portrait Gallery. This has transformed the curved alcove in this room from a feature into a dramatic talking point. New materials have also allowed walls to grow outwards rather than just upwards. Sculptured panels can be made from materials such as MDF, offering a surprisingly cost-effective means of adding that third dimension to a vertical space. The finishes on these are endless too, from laminated to painted, so you can give it your own personal touch. These recent developments have also meant the emergence of material finishes that are hugely durable, impact-resistant and long lasting. Perfect if you’re worried about the kids’ sticky fingers. Consider here perhaps a vinyl fabric finish with cotton 84 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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backing, such as one we used recently to add depth and interest to the elegant drawing room of a country house in Bath. Or embrace the chaos and go for a newly introduced paint such as ideaPaint – with one application it can turn any space into an instant dry-erase writing surface. Sounds like fun to me! And it doesn’t just stop at the walls. Often no more thought is given to ceilings than what shade of white they should be painted, but the high ceilings that dominate Bath’s Georgian houses are the perfect canvas for wallpaper or digital print. Ever thought of using the space to display a digital Ordinance Survey print of your neighbourhood in Bath, or even a map of the world so you can plan your travels as you soak in the tub? The opportunities are in fact endless. The challenge is dropping any preconceptions you have about your wall spaces and letting your imagination flow. The rest is easy. But we’ll keep that between you, me and the four walls. ■ For more information on any of these products or on Woodhouse & Law’s design services, visit woodhouseandlaw.co.uk, email info@woodhouseandlaw.co.uk, or visit the showroom at Boniti, Dunsdon Barn, Dunsdon Lane, West Littleton SN14 8JA, two minutes from J18 of the M4 near Dyrham Park. Or call: 01225 892 054.
GRAND DESIGNS: Main image, an impressive and dramatic mural, overlooks a grand dining room. Below, new surface materials; the Muraspec Metropolitan wall coverings range - use 30% recycled waste
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8 BATH STREET, FROME. TEL: 01 373473555 WWW.FIATLUX.CO.UK
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HOW DO YOU TURN A CURTAIN INTO A BLIND? Times are definitely changing. “Last year was a turning point”, said Atmosphere Bath’s owner Jose Tobin. “So many people asked us if we could revamp their existing curtains that we decided to offer alterations as a new service. We now make cushion covers, bedspreads, blinds, headboards and all sorts of other home furnishings from recycled fabrics as well as new ones”
L
oved by Bathonians as well as customers further afield for its wonderful choice of continental fabrics – many double-width – Atmosphere still has a fabulous range to choose from. But its new service is a boon for people who still love the material they chose for their curtains but wish they could update the style or hanging method, shorten the length a little, or even turn them into blinds; and the quality of Atmosphere’s hand-sewing is proving to be a real hit. “Just show us your existing fabric, tell us what you’d like us to do and if it can be done, our expert seamstresses will transform it for you beautifully and revitalise your room” says Jose. “We still specialise in sourcing and selling gorgeous fabrics as well as all sorts of sundries from curtain poles and finials to tracks, trims and blinds. But recycling quality fabrics makes sense financially as well as being good for the environment. We’re enjoying it and our customers love it too.” For further information, contact Atmosphere Bath, 19 Broad Street, Bath BA1 5LN. Tel: 01225 461 028. email: info@atmospherebath.co.uk or visit: www.atmospherebath.co.uk
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CITYhomes
Spring clean If you’re thinking of polishing up your home this spring we preview the very best in luxury interior style for your home in store in the city this month
SPLASH OUT: an exquisite collection of solid stone baths from Mandarin Stone. Calacatta viola honed marble vesta bath costs £13,140 and is shown here with white quartzite maxi splitface on the walls, £57.46 per sqm. Mandarin Stone, 15-16 Broad Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 460 033. www.mandarinstone.com
TAKE INSIDE OUTSIDE: take indoor living outside with stylish furniture and accessories. Closa offers an impressive range of garden furniture, parasols and accessories from world class manufacturers. Closa, Bristol Road, Allington, Chippenham. Tel: 01249 448 731. www.closa.co.uk
FLOWER SHOWER: Vallila print shower curtains from Finland, £45. Shannon Furniture, 68 Walcot Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 424 222. www.shannon-uk.com
WINDOW DRESSING: Luxaflex duette shades filter light and insulate your home all year round. These double-layered blinds incorporate a honeycomb construction, to keep heat out in the summer and warmth in during the winter. From £72. The Pole Company, 1 Saracen Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 469 559. www.thepolecompany.co.uk 90 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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STEP UP THE COLOUR: premium quality water based pure acrylic paints, which are super hard wearing and can be tinted to over 1300 colours. Colour Trend, Walcot Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 789927. www.colourtrendpaints.co.uk
BESPOKE LOOKS: Boniti Bespoke launched in February with a collection of handmade mirrors by BIDA award-winning furniture maker Simon Lunt. Each mirror is handmade to order using a choice of oak. Boniti Bespoke, Dunsdon Barn, West Littleton. Tel: 01225 892 200. www.bonitibespoke.com
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A GARDENER’S DELIGHT Tucked away in a quiet enclave in the heart of Weston village is a painstakingly restored Georgian gem with a well stocked garden that would make any plantswoman proud
W
e all have our wishlist for our ideal home. It might have a bathroom where you can sit with a glass of wine admiring the flowers in the garden, a family room where you can keep your gadgets and watch a film or a home office that’s just far enough from the household to allow a little peace and quiet without the hassle of a daily commute. Or perhaps you’d like original features restored, such as sanded, polished wooden floors, high ceilings, fireplaces and pretty Victorian tessellated tiles in the hallway? This very fine Georgian townhouse in the old village of Weston, Bath, ticks all the boxes and more. The current owners found it when they were moving back to the UK from the States and had fallen in love with the five bedroom house, seeing it as a restoration project they could get their teeth into. But, sadly, once they arrived in the country they were too late and the house had been sold to someone else. The family rented while they cast their eyes around for another home they’d like as much, and, as luck would have it, the house came on the market a couple of years later and they were able to finally own it. The first job the new owner tackled on her arrival was the garden. Having trained at Lackham in horticulture, this keen plantswoman threw herself into clearing rubble and scrub from the top corners of the back garden and creating what she describes as layers, tumbling down the slope to the back of the house. On summer days the family enjoys sitting on the patio at the top of the walled garden, from where they can see out to Kelston Round Hill. If you sit in the warmth of the kitchen on a cold spring day, you have a perfect view of drifts of colour all the way up the back garden. And in early summer the creamy white flowers of a Wedding Day rose smother the branches of a mature apple tree. 92 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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AN OASIS: main picture, a hammock on the front lawn is the ideal spot to rest after a few hours gardening. Inset, visitors approach the house in Weston through verdant gardens
At the side of the house a productive kitchen garden has been made, with 17 raised beds home to vegetables and fruit all year round, from asparagus to leeks. These beds, along with the pear, apple and plum trees at the back, provide plenty of produce for the cook. Visitors arriving at the front, metal gate set in an old wall, stroll along a curved path, looking up at the house across the lawn. Again, attention has been paid to year-round colour and interest in the beds and in late spring there is a pretty magnolia, its creamy flowers like a chandelier lighting up this corner of the garden. The house itself is a handsome specimen too, with its distinctive Trafalgar balcony across the front and big windows. The front porch opens into a traditional hall, with that long, slightly worn but intact patterned tile decoration on the floor, hidden for many years under carpets. To one side is the formal dining room, to the other the family room, or snug, leading to the bay windowed drawing room. The family room is currently set up as part library, part cinema, with a screen which folds down, blackout curtains and a projector. Just add popcorn for the ideal night in. The shutters in the drawing room fold across the bay window, keeping in the warm, and there’s a woodburner for extra cosiness. The kitchen is at the back of the house, with a flagstone floor and a cream Aga. There’s space for a table and chairs here for
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ROOM TO GROW: main picture, the drawing room, where the coffee table has been created from an old door bought at Wells Reclamation. Inset, top, the family snug and below, the sunny kitchen
informal breakfasts and Sunday brunch with the papers. Through an archway is a good sized coats and boot space, with a door out to the garden. Slip past a handy utility area and a flight of stairs takes you up to the guest annexe, with its own kitchen area and ample space for a visiting grandparent or two, or a live-in au pair to have a little bit of privacy. Back in the main house, the master bedroom has an en suite bathroom, with a commanding view of the garden from the rolltop bath. There are another two bedrooms on this level and a bathroom, while upstairs the teenagers could have their own
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space, with two more bedrooms at the top of the house. In the garden, restored from under a curtain of choking ivy, is a period summerhouse with original stained glass – another successful restoration project which has produced a beautiful building which also happens to make a comfortable home office. Round the back of the house is a cobbled driveway with a parking area and two garages. There is also plenty of storage. The agent for this Weston Grade II listed home is Knight Frank and the guide price is £1.2m. ■ To arrange a viewing contact Knight Frank, tel: 01225 325999.
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Heart of the home From stylish kitchen accessories and gadgets to spectacular interior designs, TBM takes a look at the very best in kitchen design LET THERE BE LIGHT: Original BTC Stanley pendant light, available in solid brass, copper or brass nickel plated with a hammered, smooth or reflective finish. Large Stanley pendant lights in beaten copper, £395 each. Fiat Lux, 8 Bath Street, Frome. Tel: 01373473555. www.fiatlux.co.uk
IN HOT WATER: a revolutionary product from Quooker that allows you to run boiling water straight from the tap. Quooker, call: 020 79233355 or visit www.quooker.com for stockists
POLISHED OFF: Mandarin Stone has recently introduced Jurassic White limestone. A versatile offwhite stone with delicate shell markings, available in both honed and polished finishes. Slabs for fabrication to create work surfaces, as pictured, together with stone bathware are also part of the collection. Tiles cost from £53.99 per sqm. Mandarin Stone, 15-16 Broad Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 460 033. www.mandarinstone.com
DESIGN YOUR OWN: with offices in Bath, Architect Your Home can advise you on how to make the most of your home, with stylish and personalised extensions. For more information or to discuss a project with Architect Your Home call: 0800 849 8505. www.architect-yourhome.com
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JUICE IT UP: Juicy Salif designed by Philippe Starck. Quadri, 16 Milsom Place, Bath. Tel: 01225 329212. www.quadri.co.uk
ALFRESCO: the new Elegance kitchen garden range is the sophisticated way to protect your crops this season and perfect for creating interesting garden architecture. Prices from £69. Agriframes, Journal House, Bristol. Tel: 0845 260 4450. www.agriframes.co.uk
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KITCHEN MAKEOVERS More and more Bath homeowners are choosing to give their kitchens the Cinderella treatment, turning them from drab and dowdy to sleek and modern with the minimum of fuss
T
here are two rooms which make our homes look out of date as surely as an old-fashioned hair style and can make us feel out of sorts – the bathroom and the kitchen. An avocado suite in the bathroom and a yellowing pine kitchen make bathing and cooking less of a pleasure. There is a way to revive a kitchen without even having to take the saucepans out of the cupboards or living without the sink for weeks. It involves replacing worksurfaces and splashbacks – cupboard doors and sinks too if needed – to give the room a complete 21st century makeover. Dudley Rochelle runs Granite Transformations’ Bath branch on London Road, part of an international brand which uses a range of stylish Italian granite, quartz and recycled glass to create customised, light but tough slimline worktops. These are simply perfectly fitted on to existing cupboard carcasses. He said: “Most of our customers are over 50. They want a new, fresh looking kitchen but without all the disruption and dust of having it all replaced. For around £2,000 or so you can completely change the look of a kitchen. Our team of fitters can do the whole thing in one day too.” The worksurfaces come with a lifetime warranty too, which is another reason for their growing popularity among west country
homeowners. They come in a range of colours and finishes from polar ice white through to black. Some of the finishes even have flecks of glass or shell incorporated to give the surface a flash of glitter under the lights or in sunshine. Granite Transformations’ worksurfaces are smooth, easy to clean and scratch, heat and stain resistant. TV property guru Sarah Beeney used the moulded surfaces to good effect in a bathroom for her Restoration series on Channel4, backlighting a green splashback for a very sleek contemporary look. Dudley says that people are increasingly using the surfaces for showers as well as for splashbacks as they are easier to keep clean than traditional tiles with their dirt trap grouting. There’s an average two to three week order to delivery time and each surface is moulded exactly to fit, taking in quirky angles, curves and awkward corners. The company can also supply and fit cupboard doors, handles, sinks, hobs and taps. Granite Transformations is a member of Checkatrade.com, which allows customers to go online to check out the workmanship, reliability and courtesy of its fitters. For more information, visit the showroom in London Road, Bath or visit: www.granitetransformations.co.uk/bristol. ■
ROOMS FOR IMPROVEMENT: main picture, a new Granite Transformation worksurface completely changes the look of this kitchen (Before: top right) Below, right, looking good without too much hassle
Street thatʼs home from home
Chair from Fabric Mills
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For too long we’ve tended to view Bath’s London Road as a dreary, traffic-bound entry to the city – but maybe it’s time we took a fresh look at what’s going on along this street. From pianos to armchairs, and from baths to curtains, there’s a quiet revolution going on, as shop after shop selling all kinds of products for the home is setting up along the London Road. Anyone shopping for furniture or fittings would be wise to spend a few hours browsing among the businesses which can offer a specialist service. There are plans to improve
the street over the next four years, with a public meeting being held at 7pm on Thursday 8 March at the Gateway Centre, London Road, to which all are welcome, which will discuss how £750,000 earmarked by Bath & North East Somerset Council can be spent to improve the environment. Up for consideration are projects including street furniture and greening, encouraging private property regeneration through matchfunding, bringing empty properties back into use, and resolving parking issues.
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CITYgardens
GREAT EXPECTATIONS The poet Emily Dickinson once wrote: ‘March is the month of expectation.’ She must have been talking about us gardeners says Jane Moore
C
an you feel it? That surge of spring in the air is unmistakeable and if you haven’t felt it just yet, then you soon will. What a mixed bag of a month March is – you name it, we’ll get it. Rain, wind, frost and some sunshine too – and that’s often just in a single day. But when all is said and done, we know that spring proper is just around the corner and, if the last couple of Aprils are anything to go by, it’s going to be a race between gardener and weeds to see who’s the speediest. So this month I’m giving you a checklist of jobs to be getting on with so that we, the savvy gardeners, are well ahead of the game.
Change your beds
season and need to be pruned back before this happens or they waste all that energy. I often prune mine in the autumn these days, but then we do have a sheltered garden and I’m prepared to take a few risks with frost damage, but the ideal time is early spring. Be tough with them – most roses grow vigorously and can become very congested leading to all sorts of horrible diseases and disfigurements. Cut back main stems by about one third to one half to an outward facing bud and make sure you take out any crossing stems and any congestion in the middle of the shrub. When it comes to coloured stem dogwoods you have to be even tougher, cutting all those vivid stems back to the base ruthlessly. I don’t do this every year, though, as I like my dogwoods big and brazen and the new stems just don’t grow back strongly enough if I prune without compunction year after year. Instead the vicious prune takes place on a biennial basis.
This is the last real chance to move any plants about and put in any new ones. Yes, you can plant and lift and divide perennials in April but they’ll need more watering and general fussing over for the whole of the rest of the year than if you get on and do it now. Weed every bed and border now. It saves a whole lot of bother in April as you’ll get all those pesky little seeders like hairy bittercress and annual meadowgrass out of the picture before they get a chance to seed about. Finish off with a nice topdress of garden compost and a little fertiliser and you’ll feel really pleased with yourself. Especially as the garden looks just amazing.
Slugs and snails get going ❝ shockingly early in the season and can devastate plants ❞
Slugs and snails
Brighten up pots
Never underestimate the activity of molluscs. Slugs and snails get going shockingly early in the season and can devastate plants before they even emerge from the ground. One year I left some of our dahlias in over the winter, to find the shoots were shorn off well below ground level long before I had even thought of treating them. Don’t hang about; get some slug pellets or wateron slug buster on those cannas, dahlias, sidalcea and hostas straight away. Don’t forget that you can now get organically acceptable slug pellets too.
Seasonsal cuts There are one or two essential spring pruning jobs that you will kick yourself if you forget. Roses tend to shoot very early in the 98 THEBATHMAGAZINE
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March is the perfect time for refreshing those tired winter pots. No doubt a few of the pansies are past their best, leggy and lacklustre, and while you can cut them back and hope they revive I think it’s worth spending a couple of pounds on some fresh plants to dot in strategically. Remember that you’re going to be living with these pots for a couple more months before it’s time to redo them for summer. Permanently potted trees and shrubs such as clipped bay and box often get a rough deal in the spring as all our attention is concentrated on the more demanding parts of the garden. All they need is a feed of some slow release fertiliser, followed by a topdressing of multi-purpose compost.
ONE I PREPARED EARLIER: main picture, Jane Moore tackles coloured stem dogwoods. below, potted shrubs may need a tidy and a feed
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POTTING UP: even if you only have a windowsill you can enjoy some freshly picked home-grown food, such as herbs
Grow your own
Rainy days
Make some room to grow a few vegetables. A few bits and bobs isn’t any bother and it’s great to have salads and herbs at hand for just when you need them. Create a small raised bed if you have room and plant it with potatoes, shallots and anything else you fancy. I’m in between allotments at the moment and last year my window box of rocket and cut-and-come-again lettuces kept me in salads for most of the summer. I’ve grown runner and French beans in big pots, peppers and tomatoes too. You won’t believe how easy potatoes are to grow in a pot. There’s always a pot or two of herbs in my garden, such as parsley, chives and mint.
You can’t sit back and relax just because it’s raining cats and dogs, you know. It’s the perfect excuse to head off to the garden centre for a lovely cup of coffee, ahem, I mean for a couple of bags of compost and so on. Stock up on all the things you’ll need for seed sowing, including the seeds. If you’re anything like me you’ll have to do it in batches due to space and memory constraints. ■
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Jane Moore is the award winning head gardener at the Bath Priory. Read her blog http://janethegardener.wordpress.com or follow her on Twitter: janethegardener.
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PETcorner
Mind the Gaps! A
gap between your front teeth may be aesthetically pleasing to some humans but for our pets it doesn’t quite hold true. A gap filled smile for them indicates previous dental problems which caused gum disease and unsociable doggy breath. Periodontal disease, which affects the gums, supporting ligaments and underlying bone, is exceptionally common with approximately 87% of all pets over the age of three suffering from this complaint. The normal mouth of a dog and cat has 750 million bacteria per millilitre of saliva. Natural defence mechanisms such as salivation and chewing will help keep the bacterial population under control. Problems arise when teeth become overcrowded, mis-aligned, fractured or affected by poor diet. Any one of these factors may tip the balance in favour of periodontal disease. In its simplistic form it begins with plaque – a mixture of saliva and bacteriawhich is difficult to rinse off with water and needs to be removed by mechanical means such as brushing. Once the plaque gains a foothold it becomes mineralized and hardened to form calculus. Even the thinnest layer of calculus can establish a rough surface which will predispose the teeth to retain even more plaque. Pretty soon your pet’s teeth will be covered with a layer of hard stony material. The underlying gum will eventually become inflamed and bleed easily when touched. This is the stage commonly referred to as gingivitis. Fortunately if you remove the plaque through professional scaling at this time, gingivitis can be completely reversible. Left untreated for weeks or months the gingivitis progresses to the dreaded periodontitis… Periodontitis causes permanent damage to gums and teeth, causing tooth loss. Worse still, this disease can affect other body organs. Every time your pet chews food their mouth will release millions of bacteria which will be transported in the blood stream to other parts of their body such as the liver whose job it is to detoxify these nasty bacteria. In some cases valvular infections of the heart and underlying liver problems will be exacerbated by periodontitis. So how do you detect impending dental problems? If you pet allows, have a quick look under the upper lip to the very back of their mouth. Located on the upper part of their mouth is a large tooth called a carnassial molar. This tooth is important to identify because it is likely to get plaque first due to its proximity to the salivary duct. If you can monitor this tooth routinely for discolouration, also looking above the tooth for any evidence of redness demarking gingival inflammation, then early dental problems can be detected. Once you have detected early dental disease a visit to your vet for a thorough scale and polish under general anaesthetic is required. Teeth brushing at home will not remove all of the plaque sufficiently. The vet will use specialized equipment to remove the toughest calculus then polish the overlying tooth enamel to smooth the surface so that plaque cannot gain a foothold. After the cleaning it’s over to you; post dental care involves regular tooth brushing, and diets that will encourage more chewing to increase salivation and mechanical scraping away of plaque. Veterinary staff will be happy to show you what to use after the dental, finding the best method for keeping your pets mouth sparkling clean and avoiding future tooth loss. Brushing with special toothpaste used to sound far-fetched several years ago but now has become common place. Of course, you have to select your patients carefully and train them to accept the tooth brush but I’ve found that most dogs don’t mind. Doggy chew sticks have some merit but unfortunately some dogs don’t chew sufficiently to remove plaque. It’s trial and error to start with but worth it every time your dog licks you without that foul smell. If you have any questions, local vet Jenny Keen will be pleased to help and can be contacted on 01225 428921. All Bath Vet Group surgery contact details and further information are available at www.bathvetgroup.co.uk.
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T: 01225 760605 E: jayne_norman@hotmail.co.uk www.jaynenorman@hotmail.co.uk
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PROPERTYin FOCUS
160 NEWBRIDGE ROAD, BATH Four bedrooms, one en suite
Family bathroom
Garage
Price: ÂŁ715,000 Conservatory
Large rear garden
Off street parking
T
his impressive and particularly well presented semi detached period house has been the subject of almost complete renovation over recent years and now offers substantial and flexible family accommodation over three floors. An attractive covered entrance porch and useful vestibule lead to a welcoming and stylish reception hall which has Travertine flooring and under floor heating. The sitting room has a fireplace with marble surround and a large rectangular bay window making a light and restful space. Beyond this, the dining room has a good range of practical built in cupboards, a fireplace and French windows leading to the conservatory. The wonderful family kitchen/breakfast room flows well and also has French windows onto the garden. On the first floor the principal bedroom has excellent built in storage and a stylish en suite shower room and there is a further bedroom and fabulous family bathroom with a laundry/utility room on this level. Above are two further double bedrooms, one with an en suite shower room.The house has attractive walled gardens featuring two stone built outbuildings currently used as a workshop and sauna with potential for a home office. There is a side garage and ample driveway parking to the front of the property. This extremely flexible home in a very popular area is sure to appeal to a wide range of potential buyers. Viewing is by appointment with agents Pritchards. Pritchards, 11 Quiet Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 466225
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PROPERTYin FOCUS
T
his fine, Grade 1 listed Georgian townhouse has been divided into two apartments, the upper maisonette occupies the top three floors and is currently offered for sale. Sion Hill Place was built by Bath architect John Pinch in around 1820. It is a particularly peaceful situation, being a no through road, overlooking Bath. The property is accessed by a cantilevered stone staircase and the large reception area at entry level leads to a useful cloakroom. The two reception rooms on the second floor of the building; the drawing room and withdrawing room are beautiful and have double height ceilings and the original deeply moulded cornices. The rooms open to create an excellent space for entertaining. On the third floor, the kitchen/breakfast room is extremely well equipped with integrated appliances and cherry wood cabinets. Swing doors lead to an elegant dining room which is south facing and has views over the Somerset hills. There is a third room at this level which is currently furnished as a library but could equally serve as a third bedroom. On the top floor are two double bedrooms, one offering a spectacular view over the city and surrounding countryside. Each bedroom is served by a separate bathroom. This is an extremely elegant home in a very well regarded area and, for many is the epitome of Bath style.The selling agents are Knight Frank. Knight Frank. 4 Wood Street, Queen Square, Bath. Tel: 01225 325999
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6 SION HILL PLACE, BATH Upper Maisonette
Price: ÂŁ795,000
pritchard-partners.co.uk
Camerton
Batheaston
An immaculately presented 4 bedroom detached house which offers the rare benefit of good sized gardens of approximately an acre and an adjoining paddock of approximately 2 acres.
A well presented and deceptively spacious detached house enjoying wonderful views, in large attractive gardens just 3 miles from the Centre of Bath.
The property enjoys a most idyllic outlook with widespread views over the Cam Valley and surrounding countryside. Total approx. floor area: 2407 sq ft / 223.6 sq m.
4 bedrooms, bathroom, reception hall, sitting room, kitchen, garden/dining room with bi-folding doors onto a large decked sun terrace. Playroom, utility room and cloakroom. Double garage. Parking. Total approx. floor area: 1849 sq ft / 171.8 sq m.
Guide Price: £695,000
Guide Price: £675,000
Combe Down
Woodlands Park
A substantial semi detached period home set in a quiet location within the popular area of Combe Down on the southern side of the City.
A delightful family home built in 1965, detached and set within a good sized plot on the eastern side of Bath near to the popular Alice Park.
3 receptions, kitchen, large utility, master bedroom with en suite, 3 further bedrooms & family bathroom. Parking for 3 vehicles & substantial gardens with pretty outlook. Approx floor area: 1722 sq ft/160 sq m.
Kitchen/breakfast room, living room, dining room, cloakroom, master bedroom with en suite, 3 further double bedrooms and a family bathroom. Off road parking. Garage.West facing garden. Total approx. floor area: 1586 sq ft/147.3 sq m.
Price: £525,000
Price: £525,000 11 Quiet Street, Bath BA1 2LB
PRITCHARDS March.indd 1
Tel: 01225 466 225
22/02/2012 10:54
Bath Office Sales. 01225 459817 bath@hamptons-int.com Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
Lower South Wraxall, Wiltshire Tower Barn is a unique and charming family home, situated down a private lane within the most sought after village of South Wraxall, offering flexible accommodation to suit the growing or extended family. With five bedrooms and three receptions and more that could be created, the U-shape barn conversion looks out on to the large inner courtyard garden and also has the benefit of an adjacent paddock and a drive leading to a parking area to the front of the house including a stone built double garage. Approximate gross sq.ft. 4140.
Guide Price ÂŁ925,000 5 Bedrooms 3 Receptions Barn Conversion Flexible Accommodation Workshop/ Studios Garden and Paddock
Bath Office 01225 459817 bath@hamptons-int.com
In the year of medals, we are already on a winning streak. Hamptons International Silver for Best for UK Large Estate Agency and Best for Marketing.
Hamptons Sales March.indd 1
22/02/2012 10:48
Bath Office Sales. 01225 459817 bath@hamptons-int.com Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
Wellow, Bath This most attractive and substantial detached barn conversion offers well presented and versatile accommodation including four reception rooms and five double bedrooms served by three bathrooms. Situated in this sought after village on the south side of Bath, Summerfield also benefits from an attractive garden well stocked with fruit trees and summer flowers plus a lovely sheltered patio area with a heated swimming pool, all enjoying views of the adjoining open countryside. Approximate gross sq.ft. 4392.
Guide Price ÂŁ1.3m 5 Bedrooms 4 Receptions Barn Conversion Potential Annexe Garden and Pool Countryside Views
Bath Office 01225 459817 bath@hamptons-int.com
In the year of medals, we are already on a winning streak. Hamptons International Silver for Best for UK Large Estate Agency and Best for Marketing.
Hamptons Sales March.indd 2
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STYLE & PROPORTION This month’s homes are a desirable bunch – the sort of properties that have just the features you’d like, whether it be a romantic beamed sitting room with an inglenook fireplace or en suite bathrooms for every member of the family
The Old Manor House, Marshfield You could almost call yourself Lord and Lady of the Manor in this very fine Cotswold stone house set in its own walled gardens, complete with antique stone dovecote and a croquet lawn. The five bedroom house has been sympathetically modernised to provide four bathrooms, underfloor heating and enough space to dine in the country style kitchen. But it also retains fine old featues, including ceilings with beams reclaimed from ancient ships, a splendid wooden staircase, a pantry cum bootroom and a wine cellar. In addition to the lawned gardens there is also a kitchen garden which would provide fresh fruit and vegetables for the table. At one time the 600-roost dovecote would have provided meat for the manor too, but modern sensibilities mean this is more likely to be used for merely decorative purposes. Marshfield has a very fine, long village high street, a couple of pubs, a village store and primary school. Price: £1.5m Contact: Hamptons, tel: 01225 312244
■ Charlesworth House, East Lydford Set back from the road; the proportions of this five bedroom home are at once perfectly pleasing and the classic Georgian styling belies the fact that the house was actually built less than five years ago. It is well equipped with all contemporary luxuries, including four en suite bathrooms, a double garage and a good sized kitchen/breakfast room. The annexe is separate from the main house, and although currently used as office space it offers a sitting room, bedroom and en suite bathroom, ideal for a teenager or as a guest suite. Price: £975,000 Contact: Fine & Country, tel: 01225 320032
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Bath Office Lettings. 01225 445646 bath@hamptons-int.com Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
e n ic tio r P uc d re
Bitton
e n ic tio r P uc d re
£3950 pcm
A fine example of a 6 bedroom Georgian house set in one and half acres in a village location ideally located for commuting to either Bath or Bristol. Available Now.
River Street, Bath
£1600 pcm
A stunning 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom first floor apartment situated in a Georgian building within the city centre and benefitting from a decked terrace. Available Now.
Weston Lane, Bath
£2500 pcm
An immaculate, light and spacious 4 bedroom detached family home with landscaped gardens and gated off road parking within walking distance of the city centre. Available 1st April.
Camden Terrace, Bath
£1500 pcm
A delightful 2 bedroom, 3 storey town house situated within walking distance of the city centre with a fore garden and pretty Italianate walled garden to the rear. Available Now.
Hamptons Office 01225 445646 bathlettings@hamptons-int.com
Reassuringly Professional. Surprisingly Dynamic. Hamptons International won the Best for Innovation award at the 2010 Estate Agency of the Year Awards in association with The Sunday Times and The Times, recognising its innovative marketing approach and launch of the Hamptons International app for iPhone and iPad. Call us to find out how we can use our market-leading approach to help you.
Hamptons Letting March.indd 1
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Larkhall £925pcm EW N
Bath £900pcm Lots of space at this 3 bed unfurnished terraced house with lovely rear garden and fantastic views from the rear. 2 large double bedrooms.
EW N
Lovely 2 bed ground floor unfurnished flat with garage parking just a 10 minute walk from Bath centre. Large lounge and 2 double beds. Gas CH.
Upper Oldfield Park £1,800pcm
Southdown £975pcm
Huge Victorian semi with 5 bedrooms, lounge, dining, 3 bathrooms and drive/garage set in gardens with views across Bath. Available unfurnished.
3 bed semi just fully renovated with new bathroom and kitchen. Available fully furnished with gardens, driveway parking and gas CH.
Zest MARCH:Layout 1
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Blenheims offers the full range of block management services and excels in delivering outstanding service with a personal touch. We work closely with our clients to devise an approach that works for their building and the way in which they would like it to be run. • Professional property management for blocks of flats of all sizes • • Outstanding Accounts support for collecting and managing service charges • • ARMA members • 28 Chandos Road, Redland, BS6 6PF T: 0117 933 9560 E: Bristol@blenheims.co.uk W: www.blenheims.co.uk
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Beckford House A stylish and spacious two bedroom apartment occupying the ground floor of a Grade II Listed detached Victorian villa. Located in a highly sought after residential area within easy walking distance of Bath city centre, the apartment tastefully combines Victorian elegance with modern comforts.
Rent ÂŁ2,500 pcm stunning living room with high ceilings | deep bays with floor to ceiling sash windows | stylish and contemporary kitchen | 2 double bedrooms (1 en-suite bathroom) | contemporary shower room | garage | storage vault | private garden | period features
Reside Bath | 24 Barton Street Bath BA1 1HG | T 01225 445 777 | E info@residebath.co.uk | W www.residebath.co.uk
RESIDE March.indd 1
22/02/2012 11:05
Fidelis
Bloomfield Avenue
ÂŁ2600 PCM
A Particularly Spacious Family Home Rich in Period Detail Occupying a Sought After Location just below Bear Flat Living Room | Dining Room | Garden Room | Kitchen/Breakfast Room | Ground Floor Shower Room | 5 Double Bedrooms | Family Bathroom | Further Shower Room | Enclosed Garden | Off Road Parking
www.fidelisproperties.co.uk
01225 421000
134 Wells Road, Bear Flat, Bath BA2 3AH Fidelis March.indd 1
22/02/2012 11:06
Fidelis
Bathwick Street
ÂŁ550,000
An exquisite reburbishment of a Georgian town house presented for sale in first class order to exacting standards following the original Georgian detail Grand Entrance Hall | Living Room | Bespoke Kitchen/Dining Room | Cloakroom | Utility Room | Stunning Orangerie | Library/office space | 2 Double Bedrooms | Luxury Bathroom | Large Garden
www.fidelisproperties.co.uk
01225 421000
134 Wells Road, Bear Flat, Bath BA2 3AH Fidelis March.indd 2
22/02/2012 11:07
hunter french estate agents, valuers and surveyors
Weston - ÂŁ500,000 A traditional Bath town house with versatile living accommodation, this family home has been refurbished to very high standard throughout. Sitting room | Dining room | Modern kitchen | Second reception room | Three/four double bedrooms | Shower room | Family bathroom | Lawn garden |
Bath Office: 01225 444454 Corsham Office: 01249 715775 e: info@hunterfrench.co.uk • www.hunterfrench.co.uk Hunter French March.indd 1
23/02/2012 13:39
hunter french estate agents, valuers and surveyors
Corner Cottage, Corsham, Wiltshire - Offers Over ÂŁ450,000 An idyllic chocolate box double fronted Cotswold stone cottage situated on the edge of parkland which is listed Grade II, built in c.1740. Entrance Hall | Cloakroom | Sitting Room | Dining Room | Kitchen | Master Bedroom with En Suite Bath | Three further Double Bedrooms | Family Bathroom | Attractive Garden |
Corsham Office: 01249 715775 Bath Office: 01225 444454 e: info@hunterfrench.co.uk • www.hunterfrench.co.uk Hunter French March.indd 2
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Cecil House, Bathwick Hill SOLD BY WINKWORTH This outstanding contemporary house, featured in ‘Grand Designs’, required a diverse and carefully considered approach to marketing, being unique in design to the Bath region. With close support from our PR office in London, the Winkworth team once again delivered results, having targeted and secured the right buyers who were clearly impressed with the exceptional build quality and interior style.
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Claverton Village - ÂŁ875,000 An intriguing and highly impressive Grade II listed four or five bedroom house situated in a private corner of Claverton village. The well proportioned accommodation includes two outstanding reception rooms and a large well equipped kitchen breakfast room. In addition there are three bath/shower rooms, two of which are en suite. The property has a large rear garden and excellent parking facilities including a double garage with workshop, triple parking bay and additional hard standing.
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1 Hayes Place, Bear Flat, Bath BA2 4QW.
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01225 422 224 MINSTER WAY, BATHWICK ÂŁ415,000 A spacious and stylish modern semi in this most sought after family culde-sac with excellent proximity to Bathwick St Mary's, Bathampton and King Edward's Schools as well as a near level walk to the City of Bath. Broad views and good bedroom sizes, a bonus. Entrance hall (with storage), sitting room, dining room, kitchen/ breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom, 3 double bedrooms (master with ensuite shower room), bathroom. Good sized gardens and plentiful off-street parking. Gas central heating, double glazing. No onward chain.
WELLSWAY, BEAR FLAT ÂŁ595,000 A particularly substantial, late Victorian semi-detached house which is beautifully presented and retains a selection of period features. High level of refurbishment, good outdoor space and popular location, just a downhill stroll from the new Southgate development at Bath City Centre. Hallway, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, utility room, cloakroom, 3 first floor bedrooms and family bathroom, attic level bedroom with ensuite. Front and rear gardens, detached garage with store under.
www.mark-naylor.com
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1 Hayes Place, Bear Flat, Bath BA2 4QW.
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01225 422 224
PERRYMEAD, BATH
ÂŁ875pcm
Location Location Location! This fantastic flat situated on the boundaries of the city centre in Perrymead only a10 minute stroll from the train station. With arguably the most amazing views of Bath and yet still surrounded by stunning woodland and greenland. The property is a on the first floor, and begins with entrance hall and laundry cupboard housing the washing machine and boiler. From here can be found doors to all other rooms, the kitchen is modern with fitted wall and floor cupboards, freestanding cooker and under counter fridge. The sitting room has dual aspect views offering a light spacious room furnished with the essentials but still leaving room for extras. There are two double bedrooms both with double beds and some clothes storage; finally there is the bathroom with white suite and shower over the bath. This property comes with the added bonus of a single garage and unrestricted on street parking.
MOUNT GROVE, BATH
ÂŁ1350 pcm
A large individual detached bungalow recently refurbished and includes gas central heating and double glazing. Accommodation includes a large sitting room with an open fireplace and large square bayed window. The kitchen has a range of modern units and worktops, an inset sink unit and integrated appliances including oven, hob, dishwasher and fridge. There are three bedrooms, bedroom one is a large south facing room with a range of fitted wardrobes. Bedroom two, is again a double room, with floor to ceiling wardrobes with sliding doors. Bedroom three is a third double room and again has fitted wardrobes. There is spacious family bathroom including a white suite comprising bath, wash basin and close couple WC. There is a walk-in wet area (shower) with floor drain. Finally, a cloakroom finishes the accommodation with wash basin, WC and built-in storage cupboard. The property is set in very attractive gardens and is approached via a pair of double gates that open into the driveway, with parking for one car and access to a single garage.
www.mark-naylor.com
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WINDFALL HIDEAWAYS Ever thought about what sort of home you’d buy if you won the lottery? Perhaps you’d choose a comfortable family home with a wildlife friendly garden and a home cinema or even a complete country estate where you could entertain royally
■ Rood Ashton Manor, Wiltshire When Edward VIII was still the fun loving Prince of Wales he stayed at Rood Ashton Manor and the castellated manor house still has an opulent air fit for entertaining royally. There are superb views from the site and the three acres of grounds which surround the Gothic building have been beautifully landscaped and manicured. Once inside the house, the interior has been equally well maintained by the current owners. There’s a splendid galleried drawing room with oak panelled walls and a large fireplace, while the kitchen (conveniently next to the dining room, which is not always the case in homes of this period) is also a good size. It opens out into a contemporary style light garden room. You could enjoy a swim before breakfast in the indoor swimming pool room attached to the house, or in the evenings entertain your guests to a game of billiards or show them a film in the manor’s own home cinema. If you were going to entertain on a grand scale you’d be relieved to hear there are extensive wine cellars under the house, which are temperature controlled. There is also a pair of studies, so the host and hostess both have somewhere to work from home in peace. A separate door leads to an annexe, which could be used to house staff. A grand carved staircase leads to the first floor, where the master bedroom has his and hers dressing rooms and an en suite bathroom, along with commanding views. There are two further bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, then three more bedrooms sharing a family bathroom. A staircase leads from one bedroom up a tower, from where you can step out
on to an open parapet. Rood Ashton Manor was originally built as a much larger house, but that was mostly demolished, leaving a property that’s much more of a manageable size for today’s needs. The nearest town is Westbury, four miles away, while Bath is 13 miles and London Paddington can be reached in 75 minutes by train. Price on application. Contact: Carter Jonas, tel: 01225 747250
■ Woodwick Hall, Limpley Stoke This Arts and Crafts style, detached five/six bedroom home was built in 2004. It’s set in private and mature grounds of approximately two acres. Finished to exacting specifications by the current owners and presented to a show home standard, with a baronial galleried reception hall, wide functional inglenook fireplace, French pillowed limestone floors and exposed timbers.
The house has been made energy efficient through Pilkington K double glazing and a combination of under floor heating and radiators. All the main rooms have views over the grounds which have a duck pond, floodlit trees and sweeping lawns. The basement includes an air conditioned cinema room, alternatively suitable for a variety of uses and a separate office/gym area. A filtration room and services are in place for the construction of a swimming pool at garden level. Price: £1.6m. Contact: Fine & Country, tel: 01225 320032
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Happy 2nd Birthday!
“We are very proud to celebrate our 2nd birthday! We opened in March 2010 with smart new offices in the heart of Bradford-on-Avon. We have sold many lovely houses and met lots of friendly people on the journey. Thank you to all those who have bought and sold homes with me & to those who have been kind enough to recommend me to their friends & family - it is very much appreciated”.
We are presently building a portfolio of good property to sell in the busy spring market. For a confidential chat about your next move call us or drop in to see me. I'd be delighted to hear from you. ✓ We are a family owned local business. ✓ Born and bred in Bradford-on-Avon. ✓ Years of estate agency experience in the area. ✓ Individual marketing designed to suit just you. ✓ High profile central office location. ✓ Beautiful website and internet presence. ✓ High quality bespoke brochures with floorplans. ✓ Extensive & varied local advertising available.
“Bradford's smallest estate agency established 2010!”
☎ 01225 866747 27 Market Street, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, BA15 1LL email: info@jeremyjenkins.co.uk • website: www.jeremyjenkins.co.uk
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Detached Barn Conversion A well presented detached barn conversion situated in a quiet location and with superb views of open countryside. The property is approached over a shared gravelled driveway which leads to ample off road parking and a garage. The gardens are mainly to the side and rear comprising of a level lawn area, a feature pond, flowerbed and borders housing a selection of plants and shrubs. The village of Clapton is situated in a north easterly direction from the City of Wells and offers a village hall, public house and is surrounded by open countryside. Wells itself caters for most everyday needs with good shopping facilities, restaurants and pubs, a
cinema, churches and of course Wells Cathedral. There are good road connections to Bristol, Bath, the motorway network and Bristol Airport.There is also a rail link from Castle Cary (about 20 minutes drive away) to London Paddington. The A37 is a short distance. Bristol City Centre is approximately 15 miles, Bath approximately 12 miles and Wells approximately 9 miles.
Stony Byre offers good sized family accommodation with four bedrooms, two reception rooms and has the benefit of gas central heating.
STONY BYRE, CLAPTON, SOMERSET 4 bedrooms, sitting room, kitchen, utility lobby, cloakroom, family bathroom garden, garage
Contact: 01225 320032
ÂŁ490,000
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Contemporary Home Cedarwood is an outstanding family home that offers the best of any bespoke property. “I was very particular about its design and finish,” explains Tim, “I wanted a home that had something special about it and Cedarwood is a modern home with a tremendous amount of character. The outside had to look as amazing as the interior and the technologies that manage the heating, lighting and sound systems had to be the most advanced and up-to-date. I’ve also installed a central vacuum system for both levels as well as a ventilation system that removes stale air and brings fresh air into the home. Every comfort and convenience has been thoroughly considered to construct a home for the 21st century – forward thinking in design and technology, ecologically sound and tranquil.”
The living room is a very special place with size to match the sumptuous appeal; skilfully zoned to incorporate the dining and kitchen area.This is a place to spend precious time together and enjoy an atmospheric calm in light and spacious surroundings.The kitchen, which has been most cleverly set back, is screened and elevated from the living space thereby creating a separate area and offering a truly unique element to open-plan living – a room without walls.
The nearby village of Batheaston provides local shops and the city centre of Bath is approximately three miles providing a full range of facilities.
CEDARWOOD, BATHEASTON, BATH 4 Bedrooms [2 en-suite], Open Plan Living, Study, Bespoke Kitchen, Bathroom, Shower Room, Utility Room, Under floor Heating, Networking System
Contact: 01225 320032
OIEO £995,000
The Property People Offices throughout the UK including 5 in London
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carterjonas.co.uk
WILTSHIRE
West Ashton
£2,650,000
A castellated manor house set in a stunning elevated position with commanding parkland views. 4 reception rooms • Kitchen/breakfast room • Billiard room • Indoor swimming pool • Wine cellars Master bedroom suite • 2 guest bedroom suites • 3 further bedrooms • Bathroom • Self-contained annexe • Garaging • Ample parking • Numerous outbuildings • Landscaped gardens and grounds In all about 11,261 sq ft • Approximately 3 acres
Bath 01225 747250 david.mackenzie@carterjonas.co.uk
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London Country Department 020 7493 0676 jasper.feilding@carterjonas.co.uk
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BATH
River Street
Guide Price ÂŁ1,250,000
An elegant and extremely well presented five storey Grade II Listed townhouse situated within an attractive terrace just above the renowned Royal Crescent and Kings Circus. (Approximately 3,862 sq ft / 358.78 sq m)
Bath 01225 747250 david.mackenzie@carterjonas.co.uk
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The Property People Offices throughout the UK including 5 in London
DODINGTON PARK ESTATE
South Gloucestershire
ÂŁ2000 pcm Unfurnished
An extremely rare opportunity to rent a handsome detached Gate Lodge situated just behind the majestic Gates to Dodington Park Estate. Newly refurbished to the highest standard and comprising bespoke kitchen/breakfast room, 2 reception rooms, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Private courtyard and garden. Marvellous views across the Capability Brown parkland of the Estate.
Bath 01225 747250 sharon.hunter@carterjonas.co.uk
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BATHpropertyMATTERS
ApArtment SpeciAliSt OfferS SellerS the chAnce tO ShOwcASe their hOmeS in mAyfAir
W
Peter Greatorex
ith the Olympics fast approaching, everybody’s eyes from across the globe are focused on London. The Apartment Company are joining in with the Capital events offering local sellers the opportunity to showcase their homes at a special apartment exhibition, held at their associated Mayfair office in Park Lane on Friday 23rd and Saturday 24th March. Vendors will have access to the lucrative London and international market, exposing their properties to those who might be relocating, seeking a pied-à-terre or investing in Bath or Bristol.
Managing Director, Peter Greatorex says: “One of the many benefits of being an associate of the Guild of Professional Estate Agents is that we have access to a National Property Centre in one of London’s most prestigious locations. The Mayfair office allows us to utilise the modern showrooms using innovative technology to display our properties to both the UK and International markets that are keen to invest in the west country.” Research has shown that the recession has caused a growing number of London home owners to reassess their lives and move to the west country
for a better lifestyle, good schools and open spaces. The region is also popular with buy-to-let investors and second home owners and so the property exhibition is an ideal event for both potential buyers and vendors keen to sell their homes to the widest possible audience. The world class address comprises over 2,000 sq ft of showrooms, and The Apartment Company will utilise an array of window/wall displays and brilliant state of the art technology. For example the buyer can choose an apartment they like from one of the displays and then view a short mini clip (videoette) of that particular home on a PC or on the in-built touch-screens. These impressive ‘videoettes’ highlight the important lifestyle aspects providing the buyer with a life-like glimpse into what it might be like to live in the property. Along with presenting the homes digitally, Peter Greatorex and his team will be highlighting the benefits of living in the culturally rich cities of Bath and Bristol. As the gateway to Devon, Cornwall, Wales and the Cotswolds and only a two hour commute to the Capital by train the region is conveniently located on the UK map. There are a wide range of activities for the whole family to enjoy including theatres, galleries and museums all within close proximity to the beautiful countryside that surrounds it. Furthermore as members of The Guild, vendors and buyers alike can rest assured they will receive an efficient and professional service from beginning to end of the process from The Apartment Company.
For more information on how The Apartment Company can help you move, please telephone 01225 471 144 or visit www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk
136 THEBATHMAGAZINE | MARCH 2012
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Portland Place
£1500 pcm Alfred Street
Located within walking distance of the city centre is this first floor spacious three bedroom apartment.
The Grange, Freshford
Ladymead House
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£1000 pcm Bennett Street
A spacious three bedroom, two bathroom top floor Georgian apartment located in a highly desirable position off of St James’s Square.
£875 pcm Hartley House, Belvedere
A beautiful one bedroom garden apartment is set within the recently refurbished Ladymead House development on Walcot Street.
£1250 pcm
A recently renovated and beautifully A well presented one bedroom furnished presented two bedroom Georgian courtyard apartment located in the highly sought after maisonette with accommodation over 2 floors. Royal Crescent.
£1100 pcm Park Street
A recently refurbished ground floor period apartment in a lovely countryside setting.
£1250 pcm Royal Crescent
£895 pcm
A delightful one bedroom ground floor Georgian garden apartment located in a highly sought after central location.
£850 pcm Rivers Street
£800 pcm
A delightful first floor period apartment is A delightful second floor Georgian apartment located in the heart of the city. An unfurnished situated in a highly desirable location adjacent property in excellent decorative order. to the Royal Crescent.
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Marlborough Buildings OIEO £475,000 Claverton Lodge A beautifully presented three bedroom laterally converted apartment a highly sought after location adjacent to the Royal Crescent.
Northanger Court
Clan House
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OIEO £310,000 Old Walcot School
A well presented two bedroom ground floor Georgian garden apartment located in one of Bath’s famous crescents.
OIEO £235,000 Vane Street
This spacious one bedroom ground floor apartment is located off Sydney Road within some beautiful mature grounds.
OIEO £425,000
The property is located in a highly sought after A superb three bedroom penthouse position on the southern slopes and affords apartment located in a prime location some wonderful views towards of the city. between the Royal Crescent and The Circus.
OIEO £400,000 Camden Crescent
A spacious three bedroom riverside first floor apartment with private parking space and conveniently located in the heart of the city.
OIEO £435,000 Catharine Place
A very unique and stylish apartment set within an elegant Georgian building situated close to the city centre.
OIEO £215,000 Cleveland Terrace
Located within easy walking distance of the city centre is this delightful, light and spacious top floor apartment.
OIEO £300,000
OIEO £164,000
A stunning one bedroom second floor Georgian apartment located in a central location.
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Sydney Buildings A charming four bedroom house providing 2500 sq ft of beautifully designed accommodation in this highly desirable location benefiting from a garage and canal mooring | hall | drawing room | kitchen/breakfast room | study | utility | cloaks | studio/office | 4 beds | 3 en suite bathrooms | en suite shower | storage room | sep. wc | garage | gardens | westerly views | Guide Price ÂŁ1,300,000
Crisp Cowley Ralph Allen’s Town House York Street Bath BA1 1NQ 01225 789333
www.crispcowley.co.uk
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Wingfield An exceptional detached six bedroom family home in excess of 4,000 sq ft sitting in the middle of extensive gardens and grounds and benefiting from a range of outbuildings | porch | entrance hall | kitchen/dining room | utility room | study | drawing room | sitting room | cloakroom | library | master bedroom with large en suite bathroom | 5 further bedrooms | 3 bathrooms | workshop | wood store | 2 garages | 370 sq ft barn | outdoor heated swimming pool | tractor shed | greenhouse | extensive parking | gardens and grounds of approximately 2.8 acres | Guide Price: ÂŁ1,250,000
Crisp Cowley Ralph Allen’s Town House York Street Bath BA1 1NQ 01225 789333
www.crispcowley.co.uk
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Brock Street Exceptional south facing apartment skilfully refurbished in outstanding location | hall | drawing room with small balcony | study or bedroom 3 | 2 double bedrooms | 2 superb bathrooms | large well appointed kitchen | 150 sq m (1621 sq ft) | Guide Price £650,000
Crisp Cowley Ralph Allen’s Town House York Street Bath BA1 1NQ 01225 789333
www.crispcowley.co.uk
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Lyncombe Hill A fine detached double fronted Victorian villa in a stunning elevated position with marvellous views over the City | outer hall | staircase hall | drawing room | dining room | study | large kitchen with Aga | breakfast room | shower/cloakroom | utility | 5 bedrooms | 2 en suites | dressing room | family bathroom | 2 excellent lower ground floor rooms | 2 store rooms | large garden | Guide Price: ÂŁ1,100,000
Crisp Cowley Ralph Allen’s Town House York Street Bath BA1 1NQ 01225 789333
www.crispcowley.co.uk
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