Musician and DJ Huey Morgan talks about his mental health struggles
Behind the scenes of the Francis Hotel’s multimillion-pound refurbishment
THE BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET SHOPPING SPECIAL
HIGHLY ORIGINAL
Launching the Bath Society of Artists 120th Open Exhibition
JOIN THE CLUB Kalvin Simmons on the joy of Mandalyns
PRECIOUS STORIES
How jewellers create one-of-akind heirlooms
Turn to page 28 for an extract from
The contents of this mag made me cry twice. No, it wasn’t the kitchen island feature (as beautifully illustrated on our cover) because I know I’ll never have one unless we demolish most of the house. ’m being flippant sorry. t’s actually because I’m about to get a little heavy.
It was the extract from Huey Morgan’s memoir The Fun Lovin’ Criminal, which we feature o er on page , that had me floored. I’ve been lucky enough to meet the man himself a few times he’s always wickedly funny, unfailingly kind, and so laid back you wonder how he stays upright. ou can’t imagine this cool cat being anything other than, well, one cool cat. So to learn of his mental health struggles in the past, just shows you don’t always know what people ha e been through, or are going through. His searingly honest account of feeling suicidal, and coming to terms with the fact he needed to reach out for help, is a powerfully mo ing testament that holds lessons for us all.
ur brilliant (and yes, ’ll say it, surprisingly wise) columnist a id latman o er on page 7, also picks up on uey’s sentiments and cites the UK’s high suicide rates amongst men, because the skewed societal norms mean men (and boys) just don’t talk about their feelings the way women do. His advice, oo many lo ely people are suffering, and worrying about them isn’t enough”, got to me. “Text. Read. Talk. Donate. Love x” he urges. immediately picked up the phone to someone I’ve had a niggling feeling about but kept dismissing it with a e’s as tough as they come he’ll be fine.’ urns out he’s not. nd we’re meeting up for tea and cake ne t week.
Bath’s new destination for luxury Mens & Womenswear.
COVER The Real Shaker Kitchen from deVOL, Photo by Our Food Stories; www.ourfoodstories.com Turn to page 46 for more.
28 HUEY MORGAN In his fascinating memoir, Fun Lovin’ Criminal frontman Huey Morgan talks about his mental health THE
35 ARTS INTRO The birds are gathering at 8 Holland Street
36 WHAT’S ON People to see, places to go
38 CULTURE CLUB The arty picks of Martha Kirby
41 BOOKS Mr B with festive bells on
46 KITCHEN ISLANDS Why they are the heart of the home
62 STAYCATION Checking in, and checking out The Apex Bath
65 RECIPE Ginger and chilli chicken from Noya’s Kitchen
67 NEWS FEED Nuggets from Bath’s foodie scene
79 BEAUTY Beauty gets science-y at Baudelaire Aesthetics
80 JEWELLERY How jewellers create precious heirlooms
93 SHOPPING INTRO Bath Christmas Market returns
94 EDITOR’S CHOICE Just a few of the local sellers’ stalls
99 NETWORK LEAD CEO Alastair Darby at the Bath Life Network Lunch on the £14million renovation of the Francis Hotel
104 NETWORK NEWS News, views, and interviews
109 CAREER PATH Meet Mr Mandalyns, Kalvin Simmons
113 PROPERTY LEAD The holiday cottages for sale
114 PROPERTY NEWS The latest from the market
118 SHOWCASE Explore a rare Arts & Crafts masterpiece
12 SPOTLIGHT Dress of the Year 2024 is revealed
17 SCENE Hello party people!
27 FLATLINE Why we should be checking on the men
130 BATH LIVES Meet sculptor Patricia Volk
Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robinsderi.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Cover design Trevor Gilham
Contributors Sarah Baker, Nick Bottomley, Elsie Chadwick, David Flatman, Zeena Holland, Paul Marland, and John Mather Commercial director Pat White pat.white@mediaclash. co.uk Business development manager Annabel North annabel.north@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Dan Nichols dan.nichols@mediaclash.co.uk Business development executive Ruby Coburn ruby.coburn@mediaclash.co.uk Production and distribution manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bath Life MediaClash, Media House, 1 Widcombe Parade, Bath, BA2 4JT. tel: 01225 475800; www.mediaclash.co.uk. Instagram @TheMediaClash ©All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash. We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath and Bristol. Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk
Fashion Museum Bath has unveiled its much-anticipated Dress of the Year 2024 selections with both a men’s and a women’s look sharing the honour. The men’s is a casual shorts and loafers ensemble from Gucci, as seen on actor Paul Mescal during Milan Fashion Week. The women’s is an equally laid-back fusion of denim and silk womenswear outfit by un akahashi for N C .
hey were chosen by im Blanks, recipient of the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s Media Award and editor-at-large of The Business of Fashion, who says, “My selections for women and men were a perfect synchronicity because they defined a moment when it felt to me like fashion was realising it had lost the battle with relevance.
n its most recent history, ucci has made an earnest effort to reconnect with a more contemporary, street-y vibe. So, brand ambassador escal obligingly ucci fied his shorts, paired them with a smart blue shirt, Gucci loafers and white socks, to create the consummate image of the sensiti e, secure New an. ou could make a case for this being an instance of fashion trying to make the ordinary extraordinary.”
nd of the women’s winning outfit, he says, chose the first outfit because (in the show) the model was barefoot, in jeans and a camisole, carrying a intage cardigan. Couldn’t be more casual, e cept for the fact that Takahashi is one of fashion’s great illusionists. The whole outfit was a one piece. his really was an instance of the ordinary alchemised into something extraordinary.”
he museum’s senior curator lisabeth urray adds, hese selections remind us that style is not just about spectacle – it’s about connection, culture, and storytelling.”
The Fashion Museum Bath is currently closed to visitors while it undergoes a transformation and relocation to a new home in the ld ost ffice building on New Bond Street with an e pected opening date of autumn 2030.
For more: www.fashionmuseum.co.uk
Follow @bathlifemag on Instagram and LinkedIn for great local images and up-to-date news – and email bathlife@mediaclash.co.uk to discover how we can work with you to promote your business to our wide audience @theatreroyalbath
Alongside our store in Central Bath, Coopers now has a beautiful showroom at Dunsdon Barn. Showcasing the very best in range cooking and home appliances. This showroom is dedicated to the heart of the home - the kitchen. With brands such as AGA, Everhot, Lacanche, Miele, Fisher & Paykel, Bora and many more.
The Bath Society of Artists 120th Open Exhibition, which attracts almost 1,500 entries every year, launched last month at the Victoria Art Gallery with more than 400 exhibits on display and up for sale.
On the opening night, which was attended by more than 300 people, the Mayor of Bath, Councillor Professor Bharat Pankhania, awarded prizes to winning category artists who had been selected by the judges Stuart Pearson Wright, artist Sandra iggins, a id arfitt , iona Campbell SS, and essica loyd Smith.
The exhibition is free to visit for Discovery Card holders and closes anuary.
Photos by Anna Barclay; www.annaweddingphotos.com For more: www.victoriagal.org.uk | www.bsaorg.uk
A balmy September evening saw the official opening of The Barton Gallery by owners gnes and Bob ollock. rtists, collectors and supporters mingled in the colour washed three floor gallery and therapy rooms, which lies between heatre oyal and ueen Square. aintings, prints, ceramics and jewellery bedeck this new addition to the Bath art and wellness scene.
Photos by Emma Rose For more: www.thebartongallery.com
Engelhart
The always brilliant 35th Bath Film Festival programme was launched at Komedia’s Electric Bar on 10 September. Director Jasmine Barker and programmer Sal Creber shared the silver screen highlights of the ten-day festival, which brought the latest big previews, world cinema, Q&As and special events to venues across Bath.
by Nick Spratling; www.theofficialphotographer.co.uk For more: www.filmbath.org.uk
With suicide the biggest killer of men under 50 in the UK, do not underestimate the importance of checking in with others
This column isn’t as fun as usual.
Sorry about that. But try to write about what’s on my mind, so this week you’re getting a serious one hope you don’t mind, and hope it makes you think, or read, or send a te t
ha en’t read uey organ’s new book yet turn to page 7 for an e tract from The Fun Lovin’ Criminal by uey organ , but will. ery rarely read non fiction, but for uey will make an e citing e ception. he reason isn’t just to suck up to a now local celeb in the hope that he in ites me for cocktails, it’s because ’ e met him and he was completely natural and warm and charismatic.
his makes his book appeal, as does the fact that in it he discusses that most contemporary of subjects mental health (said in a cockney accent, mentul elf ). s a middle aged man, this whole thing is becoming part of my almost e eryday life. ortunately for me, while ’m certainly not psychologically bulletproof, do
not suffer like so many do.
“Watching strong men crumble… that’s a tough one”
his theory thus reckon some blokes ha e a switch like a hormonal switch that, at a certain point, just flips. onestly can’t think of a better way to e plain it.
s in all walks of life, there are folks who just cruise through. Ne er too high, ne er too low. hese are often, in my e perience at least, the ones who find others’ psychological challenges difficult to comprehend, as they don’t seem to make sense. t makes little sense, frankly, to be scared of domestic cats, but some people are. ots of things make no sense, but watching strong men crumble, watching friends retreat terrifyingly away from e erything they’ e always known, that’s a tough one. nd it’s incredibly hard to know how to approach it or them.
ike most people my age, ha e now watched as depression, an iety and frankly am not qualified to say what else, bar mental health’ has dri en men knew to take their own li es. too, like some of you, ha e friends about whom we are all worried, who need checking in on, and whose names we’re always thrilled to see pop up on our telephone screens as that tells us, well, that they are still here. was told a while ago by a cle er friend, as approached the age of , that statistically, this was when was due to become more unhappy than e er had been. Ne er mind how feel or felt, this whole subject is as ba ing to me as it is fascinating. hy hy do so many men suffer to the point that they end it all
here will be lots of intelligent and considered e planations, but it also feels likely that e eryone has their own story, that nuance is infinite in these situations. ha e another cle er mate who takes the mickey out of himself for being thick but who is not and he proffered
hat’s why people like uey organ like anyone with a bit of what they call profile’ talking about it (as broad a subject as the old mental elf’ might be) is not only helpful, but ital. Suicide is the biggest killer of men under in the . don’t understand it, maybe you don’t either, but think we’ e all got to try to do something about it. ou can donate a tenner, you can check in on a mate with a te t message, or you can plan an inter ention ( ’m currently doing this with some friends and we aren’t stupid blokes, but we all feel clueless and con inced we’re going to make it worse). eally, what we should also do is read a bit. earn about it. oo many lo ely people are suffering, and worrying about them isn’t enough. e t. ead. alk. onate. o e
David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on X/Twitter @davidflatman and Insta @dflatman
Bath Mind is a local charity that works to promote and nurture everyone’s mental health through the provision of information, activities, advice and support. Beauford House, 8-9 Princes Street,Bath. tel: 01225 316199; www.bathmind.org.uk
“Ever since I can remember I’ve been sad”
In his new memoir, Huey
When Fun Lovin’ Criminals released their debut album Come Find Yourself in 1996, its fusion of hip-hop, funk, blues and rock quickly became one of the most legendary and influential records of the decade. Now, in a fascinating memoir The Fun Lovin’ Criminal, frontman and musician Huey Morgan – now also a DJ, producer and awardwinning BBC broadcaster, as well as being one of Bath’s favourite residents – describes his remarkable, eventful and at times painful, journey from leaving the Marines to his stratospheric career in music.
e begins his story in the early 99 s in New ork a Marine freshly returned from combat and struggling to cope with the return to regular life. lagued by anger issues, mental anguish and thoughts of suicide, he reluctantly agrees to meet a therapist called Dr oyce yden. ere he recalls that first life changing appointment… er since can remember ’ e been sad. ooking back, I’ve probably struggled with depression throughout my entire life. hen my father left my mother and me when I was about seven, there seemed to be a dark cloud o er e erything that was left behind. ne moment would forget about being abandoned, the next I would be reminded by something around the apartment and brought back to the reality that my father didn’t care enough to stick around. eeling wasn’t good enough and that I wasn’t worthy of a father’s love was really
PHOTO BY BBC
CLOCKWISEFROMTOPLEFR: Mike Schnapp and the Fun Lovin’ Criminals at the U2 show at the Meadowlands 1996; Pictured in Dublin; Huey Morgan’s Latin Music Adventure for the BBC explored the unique sounds of Puerto Rico, Brazil and Cuba; Onstage in Dublin at Eamon Doran’s pub
tough at times. I remember my mother taking me to a psychologist when I was about 12 – it felt like she couldn’t even be bothered to understand my feelings; instead she subcontracted what should have been something a parent did naturally to some random asshole. It wasn’t what I needed from her. She was struggling too, of course, but it didn’t make a difference to a kid who only wanted to ha e his feelings understood by his mother.
One of the things I can always recall as a kid was not feeling like I thought other people were feeling. There was always a sense of deep dread about not being good enough or not being loveable. I’m sure my father’s abandonment has a lot to do with it but I also remember my mother having bouts of darkness that she tried to hide but I saw all the same.
Was the depression hereditary? I don’t know, but I sure felt like I was swimming against the current from a very young age. I had moments of hopelessness almost every day growing up. Initially, I thought everyone did. On the days I felt good about myself I would eventually feel guilty for forgetting that I was not supposed to feel good about myself. The only thing that could make me feel like I was worthwhile was my music. It never dawned on me that there could be another way to cope. I’d learned to believe that I had been wired a certain way and this was me fulfilling the programming, right
Wrong.
“I was being so toughignorantly about the pain I was going through”
‘The brain is fully programmable,’ Joyce started to explain, once I’d settled down. ‘Didn’t you learn skills in the Marines that changed the way you thought about how you do other things? That is programming. This mission we will embark on will help you re-program your brain and get to where you want to be.’
At least I knew where that was. I wanted to be in a place where my mind and my soul were working together, rather than the feeling I’d had of late that they really didn’t like each other. I was ready for another mission, just like the Captain Willard character in the movie by Francis Ford Coppola, Apocalypse Now. I just didn’t want to go on a suicide mission, which was where I was worried my headspace was taking me.
‘Hey, Joyce,’ I continued to press. ‘Why is it I can now see I can do something about this head of mine, but just this morning I felt hopeless? Am I like . . . crazy? For real? I mean, sometimes I feel like it’s not worth it. I get all these bad thoughts about being a shitty human and that the world would be a better place without me and …’
I found myself doing the laugh/cry thing again, a move I’d lately made famous in my midnight laments. I would walk the streets drunk. I couldn’t be like this around my roommates, so I’d head into the New York night and cry and laugh and be a nutcase. I knew no one would notice because this was New ork City and that kind of stuff happens every day.
‘So when I feel all this all at once, I can stop it?’
‘You just did. You can do it any time you choose from now on, my dear. The truth is, we all have this backpack we carry around with our stuff in it. Baggage e all have this pack we carry around. When events happen in our lives, we just toss it into the pack to deal with later.
We have chosen this month, November, to share Huey’s story because of the Movember campaign that is running now. It works to highlight the crisis happening in men’s health – across the world, one man dies by suicide every minute of every day, with males accounting for 69 per cent of all suicides. Movember is a charity that funds global groundbreaking projects to help raise awareness and funds for such issue’s specifically prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention.
For more: www.uk.movember.com
“I could nd t e so r e o w ere m ainominwas rom
But after a while all the stuff needs to be rearranged. Not looking where we are tossing it makes it settle into a position that is hard to carry around every day.’
I sure had a heavy pack on at the moment. It seemed like a lot to ask for Joyce to help me with it, but she was doing her best to make me feel at ease and comfortable with talking about myself, and I got the feeling I was in the right place.
‘What we are going to do,’ Joyce explained, ‘is to look into that pack, and arrange everything so when you put it back on and go out into the world, it won’t kill you before you become who you really want to be.’
It took a lot of soul searching, but I realized that I had been able to balance my mental health and my life only because I was being so ignorantly tough about the pain I was going through. That, and obscuring the pain indefinitely with drugs and alcohol. But at least that pain was now something could identify. could find the source of where my pain was coming from. With Joyce’s help, I could understand which people or events had left me with trauma, and how to process it all. Meeting Joyce made me realize how low I had been. As I started to get it together, the dark thoughts I’d had about killing myself began to slip away. There is an old saying about eating an elephant, and it has to do with small bites. First I had to find the elephant or, specifically, elephants. With Joyce’s help, I realized that I might learn where to look.” n
The Fun Lovin’ Criminal e or an er s is avai a e now at o a oo stores www er s oo s o
BY JODY
Luke Stephenson’s fascination with bird photography began with a simple idea: to photograph budgies, but over the past 20 years the project has evolved into a visual archive of the colourful and curious world of bird keeping. This then became a book – An Incomplete Dictionary Of Show Birds – and is now an exhibition at 8 Holland Street.
Luke says, “I wanted to photograph budgies, influenced by prize pigeon photography. Upon entering this world I discovered a whole range of wonderfully colourful and interesting birds and the hobby of bird keeping that I began to learn about, soon it had sucked me in and I became fascinated with it.
“Over the last 15 years, I’ve photographed birds and I met a great deal of people (mostly men) who were very enthusiastic about their hobby, many of whom had been keeping birds their whole lives and were extremely knowledgeable and happy to share it with me.
“This became very infectious and turned me into a sort of collector of birds, but not by owning or breeding them, but simply by photographing a certain species and adding it to my collection allowed me to tick this bird from my self imposed list.”
An Incomplete Dictionary Of Show Birds by Luke Stephenson can be seen at 8 Holland Street until 6 December; www.8hollandstreet.com
15 November –13 December
Until 20 December
IN BLOOM
his beautiful e hibition demonstrates how flowers ha e inspired generations of artists from ast and Southeast sia. New e hibits added, including embroidery by contemporary artist eehwa o and a new commission of paper flowers by ondon based artist risten ong. Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk
Until 4 January
BEYOND INFINITY
his special e hibition showcases inno ation, collaboration, and the sublime magic of space, featuring a giant moon installation, ama ing rocket and spacecraft models, games, facts, out of this world stories, and interacti e play. American Museum & Gardens; www.americanmuseum.org
Until 4 January
SCULPTING THE EARTH
Sculpting the Earth brings together the works of three women artists, Natalie Be an, siche ughes and nn Stokes. he ceramic art of all three finds echoes in the charming,
figurati e output of th century porcelain factories such as eissen and Bow, e amples of which are held in the olburne’s own collection. Holburne; www.holburne.org
Until 5 January
CAPTURING THE COSMOS
eatures the incredible planetary, deep sky, and nightscape photography of our local amateur astronomy community. Herschel Museum; www.herschelmuseum.org.uk
Until 10 January
BATH SOCIETY OF ARTISTS
120TH ANNUAL EXHIBITION
cornerstone of Bath’s cultural calendar, the e hibition celebrates o er a century of artistic e cellence, showcasing outstanding work from artists across the region and beyond. urn to page 7 for more. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk
Until 11 January
DREAMS OF THE EVERYDAY
rom the book of the same this name, this collection e plores the affinities between painter inifred Nicholson ( 9 9 ) and ndrew Cranston (b. 9 9) through the ju taposition of their works. Holburne; www.holburne.org
Until 1 February
MYTHS & MACHINES
he e hibition is dedicated to artists Niki de Saint halle and ean inguely, celebrating their isionary artistic output and enduring creati e collaboration o er three decades. nseen works on paper feature alongside monumental open air sculptures. Hauser & Wirth Somerset; www.hauserwirth.co
18 – 30 November
WHAT REMAINS
solo e hibition by multidisciplinary fine artist Crystal . ans, bringing together photography, sculpture, film, sound, and poetry as a powerful meditation on memory, disintegration, and the enduring presence of the human spirit. Roseberry Road Studios; www.roseberryroadstudios.com
Until 22 November
TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD
he arper ee classic about racial injustice and childhood innocence set in 9 labama, and based on the author’s real life e periences,
is adapted for the stage by scar winner aron Sorkin. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
17 – 18 November
STORIES FROM AN INVISIBLE TOWN
Step into a kaleidoscopic uni erse full of wonder, nostalgia and magical stories, as we enter the imaginary town writer and actor Sh n ale ones li ed in as a boy. Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
25 – 30 November
CHRISTMAS CAROL GOES WRONG
he Cornley mateur rama Society are back with tidings of joy and chaos, as they prepare ready to tackle the Charles ickens classic, A Christmas Carol Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
25 November
JIM HENSON’S LABYRINTH IN CONCERT
a id Bowie stars in this musical fantasy film directed by im enson of The Muppets fame, and set in the surreal oblin City. he band perform the score, which was composed by Bowie and re or ones. The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk
CLOCKWISEFROMTOP
LEFT: Aaron Shosanya stars as Tom Robinson in To Kill A Mockingbird on at Theatre Royal Bath until 22 November; Crystal D. Evans’ solo exhibition is at Roseberry Road Studios 18 – 30 November; Kate and Jake, Isle of Wight by Winifred Nicholson can be seen at the Holburne as part of its Dreams of the everyday exhibition; Comedian Milo Edwards is at the Rondo on 3 December to discuss the salient points of modern British life
19 & 20 November
MICHELLE DE SWARTE
Former model, and writer and creator of the absolutely wonderful and critically acclaimed BBC comedy Spent, is on the road to talk party powder’, too much filler, and using tarot cards as therapy. The Rondo; www.rondotheatre.co.uk
29 November
KRATER COMEDY CLUB: CHRISTMAS SPECIAL
The stand-up line-up so far includes: Mike Cox and Gbemi Oladip, with more to be announced. Plus there’s an optional festive menu, and free entry to The Big Disco club night afterwards. Komedia; www.komediabath.co.uk
3 December
MILO EDWARDS
In ow evo tin orr to end, Milo is answering the salient questions of modern British life, such as: Who are the posh and what are they up to? And why can’t Danny Dyer and Boris ohnson fulfil their true destinies The Rondo; www.rondotheatre.co.uk
6 December
WILMA FINGADOO
Wilma Fingadoo is back with cabaret, comedy, karaoke and a touch of Christmas. Hosted by Mandalyn fave Phillupa Bucket. Turn to page 108 for our chat with Mandalyns owner Kalvin Simmons. Instagram @mandalynsbath
21 November
THE AMY WINEHOUSE BAND
Amy’s original band led by her long-term musical director/bass player and close friend Dale Davis, celebrate her era defining music, lead by an incredible female singer,
accompanied by on-screen visuals and unique footage of Amy. The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk
21 November
PETER HOOK & THE LIGHT
Performing New Order’s 2001 album Get Ready in its entirety for the ery first time, alongside a set of legendary tracks from Joy Division – all delivered with the power and passion that has defined Peter Hook’s remarkable career. Komedia; www.komediabath.co.uk
12 December
CLYVE’S FUNKY CHRISTMAS SHOW
Back for an impressive 12th year, Clyve and his funky band perform soul, pop, and Motown classics to get us all in the festive mood. Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org
22 November – 4 January
CHRISTMAS AT NO.1 ROYAL CRESCENT
12 Tales of a Georgian Christmas is an immersive experience brings the grand rooms of the house to life through evocative stories celebrating the traditions of the season as they were enjoyed over two centuries ago. On the weekends between 6 and 21 December, Father Christmas is also setting up his grotto at No.1, while adults can join a Christmas wreath workshop or design their own lino print Christmas cards. No 1 Royal Crescent; www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk
28 November –31 December
CHRISTMAS AT STOURHEAD
Among the highlights is Tis The Season, a shimmering display of ten extra-large neon baubles by Output Arts, the majestic 24m-long Christmas Cathedral, illuminated snowdrop and cyclamen flowers,
dynamic chandeliers crafted from glowing battens, and fi e elegant neon winter flowers i y, mistletoe, holly, poinsettia and amaryllis – each standing 2.5m tall. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
28 November –
31 December
CHRISTMAS AT WESTONBIRT
Created by the award-winning producers behind Christmas at Kew, Westonbirt woodlands is home to the illuminated arboretum, firework trees, laser light shows, the enchanting Mycelium Network, and look out for ather Christmas along the trail. www.forestryengland.uk
13 December
THE BIG CHRISTMAS ASSEMBLY
he former teacher and ik ok sensation James B Partridge promises a joyful mix of holiday magic and singalong fun, with the ultimate soundtrack of Christmas assemblies, both past and present. The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk
21 December
CANDLELIGHT EXPERIENCE
The Guildhall is transformed with thousands of flickering candles to host an unforgettable night of Christmas carols and festi e holiday melodies. he e ent is hosted by e er and performed by a talented local string quartet, with a choice of shows at 5pm, 7pm and 9pm, and the latter two celebrating the soundtracks of festi e mo ies.
www.candlelightexperience.com
21 December
l is esley (aka the queen of character comedy, Tracey Collins) is in the building and on a mission to shake, rattle, and roll for this fundraising e tra agan a organised by local charity SWEDA. The aim is get a full house for songs and games, and raise money along the way to help support those across the South est affected by eating disorders and negati e body image. Komedia; www.komediabath.co.uk
The Bristol-born and raised Martha Kirby stars as Cathy Hyatt in The Last Five Years by Jason Robert Brown, coming to the Ustinov Studio from 25 November – 3 January. This adaptation of one of the most famous modern Broadway musicals is directed by Hal Chambers and tells the heartfelt story of a rollercoaster romance between two New Yorkers – one a young writer and the other an aspiring actress.
The last great film I saw One Battle After Another, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and starring Leonardo DiCaprio as a revolutionary. I love how this film comments on a multitude of current cultural and political themes with such humour and drama.
A film I could watch on repeat The Grinch. Christmas time or not.
A painting that means something to me
Nightclub in Dakar by Demas Nwoko. I saw this painting at the Nigerian Modernism exhibition at the Tate Modern and fell in love. The vibrancy in colour is perfection.
Best TV show ever
The Traitors. Completely and utterly obsessed.
The book that changed my life I have three books. The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood; Before We Hit the
Ground by Selali Fiamanya; and I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman. Two are very dystopian, one is so incredibly human.
The book I could happily re-read
The fantasy and magical romance series A Court of... series by Sarah J. Maas. I’m all in for the fairy smut!
Last live music gig I went to Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour. I went with my best friend and it was one of the best, most cathartic nights of my life.
My desert island disc
Currently it would be Act Right by Sasha Keable. I could listen to her voice all day. But the album is only 21 minutes in total so I’d probably drive myself mad.
The first song I remember hearing Je Chante by Charles Trenet. My grandma would start to chase my sister and I around her living room when the orchestra kicked in. Hours of fun (for us, maybe not for g’ma).
My karaoke go-to
If I must partake it would be The Pretender by Foo Fighters. However, I would much prefer to sit back and watch my sister Ella, belt out Dionne Warwick’s Anyone Who Had a Heart. It’s a visceral experience.
For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk
BY ALEX TABRIZI
Christmas has come early at Mr B’s!
“Throw in an avalanche and you’ve got a thriller that rockets along at breakneck speed”
I’m sure a columnist should never lift the lid on such things, but I’m writing this in mid-October, before a few sneaky days away somewhere warm before the pizzazz of the retail season kicks in (and the weather). But, our esteemed editor confirms, these words will hit the hands of readers in midNovember, which means, against all instincts, I really must begin guiding you to some books to gift this festive season.
Let me throw you into that mindset with a few quick fire recommendations for young readers.
Secrets from the North Pole by Saskia Gwinn and Saria Danilova (Frances Lincoln, £20) really couldn’t be any more Christmassy. It’s a stunningly illustrated hardback picture book about the magic of the season and the inner workings of the North Pole, which is a joy to read to children of around 5 and upwards.
Narrator-in-chief and Head Elf, Ivy Everjingle lifts the lid on long-pondered mysteries such as the true magic behind reindeer flight and how Santa’s suit is designed. Every page has charming, quirky illustrations and oddball ‘facts’. For example, who knew that Santa’s near faultless record of non-discovery on delivery days was partly down to the echolocation mechanism in his collar warning him before he steps noisily on spiky things or snoozing dogs?!
If you’re after a fantastic tale with a local edge then reach this Christmas for a new novel by the brilliant Fleur Hitchcock. Murder at Christmas (Nosy Crow, £7.99) sees young Grace delighted – as all of you can easily imagine – to be spending Christmas in Bath. Delight that proves short-lived however when two unwelcome dramas take place at their hotel. First, a murder, no less! And second the sudden disappearance of Grace’s mum. Cue a Christmas of urgent thrilling sleuthing for Grace, her little brother and two hastily acquired street-savvy friends.
Murder at Christmas is so full of pace and surprise and will be perfect for readers of around 9+ who want to start getting their reading teeth into some truly exciting mysteries.
Staying frosty and for a similar age of young reader, Avalanche by Simon Fox (Nosy Crow, £7.99) is set much further afield. Tom and his mother have arrived at a luxury ski resort ready for a well-deserved break. But they hadn’t counted on a team of highly trained kidnappers infiltrating their chalet in a desperate search for some dangerous technology created by Tom’s mum’s employers. Throw in an avalanche and you’ve got a thriller that rockets along at breakneck speed and which is likely to appeal to fans of legendary series such as the Alex Rider books.
Lastly, something far more bizarre. But brilliantly bizarre. Cabin Head and Tree Head by Scott Campbell (DK, £12.99) is officially for children aged 7+ but judging by the adult booksellers I saw falling on some accompanying merchandise like a pack of wolves, I’d say the upper age limit knows no bounds.
This graphic novel is hilarious and utterly surreal. The two titular characters live in a world filled with other heads, including, Brick Wall Head, Library Head and even Doghouse Head. The conversations these creatures have – whilst balancing their buildings atop their bonces – are bizarre, brilliant and full of the joy of friendships based on being completely open to one another’s foibles and differences.
Over tacos, bad haircut traumas and even a hunt for a treasure map, any reader is going to be completely won over by their absurd but wonderfully welcoming world! And the rest of Christmas can be spent debating what you’d most like to carry around on your head!
Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; www.mrbsemporium.com
Five years ago, local singing and wellbeing charity VOICES FOR LIFE set out with a clear mission: to bring joy to children through music. Now, it has big plans for its fifth anniversary – giving 500 more children, who might not otherwise have the chance, the opportunity to shine
When Voices for Life launched at the height of lockdown, with a prerecorded choir of children singing from their homes, few guessed how much it would grow.
Since that first, hope-filled song, the charity has helped over 10,000 children find their voices through its singing/ wellbeing workshops, large-scale performances and choirs. Those children have premiered new works, sung with an orchestra, and some have even performed for the Queen! Not to mention taking part in an Olympic singing relay of 6000, recording an album, and appearing on BBC Newsround.
Yet the impact reaches far beyond music. These projects unite children from rural, urban and under-served areas, helping them to grow in confidence and self-belief.
Now, as children face growing challenges to their wellbeing, especially those from underserved communities, the charity has ambitious
plans to help many more:
“To celebrate our 5th anniversary, we’re inviting everyone to help us Raise the Roof!” says Founder Tessa Armstrong. “Together, we want to raise £10,000 and open the door to 500 more children – giving them the chance to sing, smile and discover what they’re capable of.”
After a successful launch by the Voices for Life Bath Children’s Choir last month (pictured), Raise the Roof will run until the charity’s fifth anniversary concert next summer.
“Every voice matters, and every contribution helps create moments that last a lifetime for children,” Tessa adds. For example, a £30 donation helps a child perform at a prestigious venue, while a £250 fundraiser pays for a 10-week programme of creative singing and wellbeing workshops for 5 children. Join Voices for Life as it celebrates its fifth anniversary, inspiring a new generation to be happy and confident through music! n
HOBSON’S CHOICE reveals the subtle missteps that can quietly compromise even the most beautiful kitchens and how to avoid them
Aluxury kitchen should feel effortless — where cooking, entertaining, and everyday life flow in harmony. Yet it’s often the smaller details that let a space down: a walkway too narrow, a sink too small, or lighting that falls flat. Here’s how the Hobsons Choice designers keep high-end kitchens working as beautifully as they look.
“Instead of treating the kitchen as a separate space, you have to consider how it connects with the whole house and supports how people actually live,” says Philip Harrson, Designer. Cabinetry should also respect the
architecture: “When it doesn’t align with the details, the whole design feels off.” Designer Charlotte Wright adds, “Some clients enjoy contrast, something eclectic, but it needs to flow through the home to feel right.”
Narrow gaps and oversized islands can make a kitchen frustrating. “Leaving too tight a space between the island and sink run makes the whole room feel cramped,” says Charlotte. “Sometimes two chairs will fit beautifully where four would feel crowded,” adds Philip.
Small decisions shape long-term ease. Eyelevel ovens reduce bending; sinks should be large enough for real use. “A decent-sized bowl makes all the difference,” says Philip. “And underfloor heating can be far more efficient than radiators,” notes Charlotte.
“Drawers and internal drawers are so much more practical,” says Charlotte. Smart corners, pull-out bins, and vertical dividers make daily life smoother.
“People invest in the kitchen, then fit a cheap
light that stays for years,” says Philip. Charlotte recommends layered lighting and discreet sockets to keep the look seamless.
Dark tones can feel warm and elegant with the right lighting. “Marble is beautiful but will age; quartz is more robust,” says Charlotte. “If you want to set down hot pans, Dekton is best,” adds Philip. n
To read the full in-depth article, scan the QR code and download the free design feature.
Bath | Winchester | Swindon Hobson’s Choice, London Road, Bath, BA1 6AJ www.hobsonschoice.co.uk email: info@hobsonschoice.co.uk tel: 01225 433511
Designers and experts on that must-have home feature, the kitchen island
By Sarah Moolla
From meal prep to family pep talks, and from extra storage to hurried breakfasts, a wellplaced kitchen island can become the heart of a modern home. Whether rustic and homely or all marble and majesty, and whatever its size, it can serve as a dining table, storage hub, social space, or an extra worktop, providing a kitchen with both a visual focal point and practical flow to the layout. Here, experts and designers discuss the rules, the allure, and endearing appeal of the kitchen island (and a few alternatives for those not as sold on island living).
t is the stuff of dream kitchens to ha e an island, but what considerations should be gi en to the design John Law, interior designer with Woodhouse & Law, says, etting the design of your kitchen right is important on a number of le els. Not only is likely to be one of the largest financial in estments you make in your home but also one of the most emoti e. fter all, the kitchen is the heart of the home and as more and more properties are designed to facilitate open plan li ing, they need to be both practical and beautiful.
nstalling an island, particularly within larger kitchens, can be a great way to make a space work better ergonomically. t can pro ide a greater preparation space as well as enabling you to place appliances in a location that makes sense. t’s important to make sure the proportions of the island are right for the space. f the island is too big, it can disrupt the flow of the space. f it’s too small, then it can look lost within the o erall scheme.
n historic and listed buildings, kitchen islands can be used to great effect, enabling a designer to locate appliances and ser ices centrally, and minimising disruption to the original fabric of the building. his can be particularly useful in a city like ours.
esign is about much more than just practicality as Katherine Henham, design director of Henham Interiors, e plains, t’s important to think about both the functionality as well as the aesthetics. hat do you want to use it for, and therefore what do you need to hand re you washing and prepping food and therefore the sink is at the centre or are you ha ing a Blue Peter moment and cooking whilst chatting with family. But once all the cooking is done and the dishes are away, it’s also important to consider how it looks in the space. nterest can be brought to it by bringing colour in the cabinetry, a contrast worktop
material or beautiful decorati e lighting.
slands can feel imposing in a space, but as Leah Chisnall, director of Redesign Studio Interiors, notes n island can feel like an imposition but it’s really a great use of space as they are so ersatile offering storage options on all four sides, additional working space, seating space, and being a great way to connect the kitchen to the surrounding dining li ing space. Balance is key here an island can cater to many needs, though if you balance e erything, it will be beautiful as well as functional.
Beyond practicalities, the island remains incredibly social in its design. s Hobson’s Choice kitchen designer Charlotte Wright e plains, n island just makes sense. ather than walking around the edges of a room, you can turn, reach and cook it’s practical and sociable. ou’re not stuck in a corner with your back to e eryone you’re at the centre of things.
nd for Kelly Marie Hawker-Hicks, founder and designer of Kelly Marie Kitchen Interiors, t’s all about proportion and purpose. ery island design starts with how the client will actually use their space whether that’s for cooking, socialising, or family life then layer in the aesthetic. he materials, lighting, and detailing all tie back to the home’s character and the client’s personality. he best islands are the ones that look effortless but work incredibly hard behind the scenes. Fred Horlock, design director with Neptune, also highlights island’s role as focal points itchen islands pro ide a natural gathering spot in the kitchen whilst also enhancing the functionality with e tra storage and worksurface. By bringing essential appliances, like a hob, o en or sink area, into the centre of the kitchen, you can impro e the
OPPOSITE: Many of our experts advise to avoid installing sink on an island to keep them sleek and stylish like this design seen here by deVOL; INSETOPPOSITE: An island seen in a classic English style kitchen by deVOL; BELOW: Installing an island can be a great way to make a space work better ergonomically advises John Law of Woodhouse & Law
“A kitchenwell-placed island can become the heart of a modern home”
“Drag butcher’syourblock to the cooker when you are making jams”
flow and efficiency of your workspace. But consider carefully if you would like a sink on the island, as these areas can easily become cluttered and you may find yourself constantly tidying it. e find drinks fridges or microwa es are popular additions to our fitted islands, helping to keep the main run of cabinetry free of too many bulky appliances.
well sited island not only needs to look good but also function for the needs of e ery household member, and looking at how the island ones function is key here, as elly arie awker icks e plains, well situated island can definitely cater for both the chef and the socialiser the key is cle er oning. or families, might include softer seating ones, integrated storage for kids’ things, or a durable surface for e eryday life. or keen cooks, ’ll focus on prep space, sinks, and appliance layout. Split le els can be a great way to combine both a raised breakfast bar or a lower prep area gi es e eryone their own space without compromising the look.
nno ations in island design keep coming. Darrin Christan, director of Coopers Home Appliances, adds, oning the island into prep and cooking areas is becoming more common. amilies tend to want plenty of workspace and easy clean options, so a durable induction hob works well. een cooks often like to ha e ented hobs or teppanyaki plates for more hands on cooking. ith the right layout and appliances, it’s easy to cater for both. eah Chisnall also points out that safety should be considered, especially for family islands. f a hob is going to be fitted at an island, recommend making it an induction one instead of a gas (also easier to clean and generally looks neater).
But what about si ing and style what about concerns that the space becomes all island and no kitchen slands don’t need to feel like a big lump’ in the centre of the room, ad ises atherine enham. hey can feel a lot lighter in the room using gla ed doors, or more of
“A raised breakfast bar gives everyone their own space”
a free-standing look with legs. Seating at an end of the island creates a more relaxed informal feel rather than all the stools in a row. There’s not set rules as such in terms of size, it’s more important that it feels proportionate to the room and how the flow works into adjoining rooms, ensuring there is good circulation space. If you are blessed with space, consider dual islands for a dramatic look.”
Proportion remains key. “Go too large,” warns Charlotte Wright,“and you’ll ne er reach the middle it just gathers dust and fruit bowls. nd thanks to kitchen islands evolving with lighter, more architectural forms, it means the shapes are more fle ible. Charlotte is a fan of the new floating’ look aised on legs, they feel more open and airy.
Of course, good looks should never come at the expense of functionality. home kitchen needs to engulf the wonderful chaos of family life. Whether it’s ’the messy drawer’ of cables, batteries and takeaway menus, or stockpiles of colouring books, says atherine enham. family kitchen can still be beautiful and organised, however, it’s important to make sure you’ve considered homes for everything from the slow cooker to the Christmas turkey plate so it can still have a well organised feel you might expect in a chef’s kitchen.
Modern islands conceal a wealth of thoughtful solutions, as Darrin Christan e plains, n island can hide a lot of cle er solutions. hings like pop-up power sockets, pullout under-counter fridges or wine coolers make a big difference day to day. Some people also like to include a combination oven or warming drawer within the island, which adds fle ibility when cooking and entertaining. he newer models are ery discreet and blend in seamlessly. Ultimately, a well-planned island is about enhancing how people live in their kitchens and the right appliances make that both beautiful and practical.” Charlotte Wright agrees, “We add hidden drawers, waste disposals, prep bins, sockets in the breakfast bar – even lift-up mixers or fridge drawers. Warming drawers and wine coolers are popular – they make entertaining easier and the kitchen more adaptable.”
Finishing touches can really elevate the design. John Law says, “When designing a kitchen with large amounts of worktops, particularly where an island is a feature of the design, we often introduce a contrasting material. This helps break up the expanse of one material as well as providing a further level of interest, perhaps in the form of a bar in a timber such as walnut or oak.
“We recently designed a kitchen within a Georgian property, centred around an impressive oval island with an elegant sweep of Dekton and walnut to make a striking feature. ekton offers some beautiful worktop materials in a variety of thicknesses that can be used on horizontal and vertical surfaces, giving you a clean look with minimal joins. The material is extremely hard-wearing and easy to maintain. The suede finish is a particular fa ourite of ours, especially as it tends not to show up smears as a more polished surface can.”
arrin Christan also ad ises to look at matching finishes for seamless style. any manufacturers now offer matching finishes across appliances, which helps everything feel more coordinated and deliberate. The trick is choosing appliances that perform well but also suit the look of the kitchen. Induction hobs and vented hobs are very popular because they sit flush with the surface and keep e erything looking neat.
For those tight on space, even a peninsula can make a transformative difference. often use a peninsula for a smaller space, which you really don’t need a huge amount of space for - people often fear incorporating these as they worry it will make the space feel cramped, but in reality, visually they will enlarge the space while adding seating and/or storage, as well as working space,” says Leah Chisnall.
Darrin Christan agrees, “For smaller spaces, a compact peninsula with an induction hob or breakfast bar can give you that island feel without taking up too much room. The biggest change we’ve seen is how far integrated ventilation has come. Downdraft and vented hobs have really opened up design options because you no longer need a large extractor hanging above the island.”
: Kelly
“Kitchen islands can be used to reat e e t
Not sure about moving to an island? There is a predecessor worth considering, and a clue is in its name. “A prep table is very traditional and could always be seen in the working kitchens of Victorian and Georgian homes and now in farmhouse kitchens and Mediterranean homes, where the focus is on preparation and home-cooked food,” says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens. “It’s still a favourite for a lot of cooks – there’s the big, wide drawers for big utensils and cooking accoutrements and wide open slatted shelves for storing your biggest pots and pans. And for those who just like to hang about in the kitchen, it’s the centre of the action – open and airy, unlike an island, which can be more boxy.”
or those with less space, fle ibility is key. or much smaller kitchens, consider something more versatile like a freestanding chopping block. “Despite having a smaller frame, these hardworking pieces of furniture will provide you with an extra prep station and clever storage details like hanging rails or hidden drawers, as Fred Horlock explains. “More people are opting for freestanding islands, creating a contrast to fitted cabinetry and offering you freedom to mo e, whether around the kitchen or from home to home.”
Helen Parker is also a fan of the butcher’s block. “Over the years, butcher’s blocks have often been replaced with small islands, and we are so pleased to see them making a comeback. Back when deVOL began, we were very much in favour of butcher’s blocks; you could always squeeze one into most kitchens, even if you didn’t have the room for an island or prep table. We put chunky castors on the legs so you could wheel these little prep tables around the kitchen.
“There is something really quite pleasing about a movable piece of furniture it gi es you options, different options depending on the situation. Pull your butcher’s block to the end of your table for big gatherings where you need extra space to lay out your platters of food. Drag your butcher’s block to the cooker when you are making jams and marmalades, a perfect surface to load up fruit and jars and do a little chopping.
“Then there is the possibility, if small enough, to wheel your trusty moveable cupboard into the garden, right up next to the barbecue for lazy summer lunches. Don’t underestimate the usefulness and pleasure of this delightful kitchen classic and how it can be your trusty (and very pretty) best friend.” n
“Seating at an end of the island creates a more relaxed informal feel”
www.coopershomeappliances.com www.devolkitchens.co.uk www.henham-interiors.com www.hobsonschoice.co.uk
www.kellymariekitchens.com www.neptune.com www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk www.redesignstudiointeriors.com
For almost two decades, the team has been creating beautiful kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms, defined by craftsmanship, creativity and a highly personal touch. Led by owner Natasha, Formosa offers a refined and understated service: managing every element of a project in-house to ensure a single point of contact and seamless communication throughout.
A recent full-home commission in South Wraxall perfectly embodies the Formosa ethos. The cabin-style property, set within peaceful countryside, reflects the studio’s natural, freespirited approach to design. Working within an achievable budget, the brief called for a bohemian yet functional aesthetic: natural woods, forest greens and tactile materials that echo the surrounding landscape. From the utility room and hallway to the kitchen, bathrooms and bespoke bedroom furniture, every space was designed with fluidity
“A PALETTE OF OAK AND GREEN MIRRORS THE HOME’S RURAL SETTING, WHILE SOFT, NEUTRAL TONES BRING HARMONY AND BALANCE”
between indoors and out, creating a cohesive sense of calm and continuity.
A palette of oak and green mirrors the home’s rural setting, while soft, neutral tones bring harmony and balance. Each piece of furniture was chosen to blend effortlessly with the architecture and environment, resulting in a home that feels warm, grounded and intimately connected to its surroundings.
For kitchen projects, Formosa partners with leading British suppliers, notably the Quantum range. Natasha’s long-standing relationships with her makers allow for bespoke design solutions tailored to individual needs. In the
bathroom, luxury brands such as Villeroy & Boch Express, Vanity Hall & Vado bring elegance and durability. Across every detail, Formosa’s commitment to exceptional quality and enduring design remains constant.
The Formosa showroom in Holt, nestled beside the village green, is an inspiring destination in its own right. Visitors are encouraged to explore materials first-hand – from smooth worktops and elegant fittings to beautifully crafted textures and finishes – before sitting down with Natasha and her team to discuss ideas. With private parking and full accessibility, the showroom offers the perfect setting to begin a design journey.
Whether the brief calls for a contemporary kitchen, a tranquil bathroom or a restful bedroom, Formosa guides each project with sensitivity and expertise — transforming vision into spaces that feel effortlessly at home.
Formosa Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms, Ham Green, Holt, Wiltshire, BA14 6PX 01225 308541; www.formosakbb.co.uk
It’s an ‘eat, sleep, swim, repeat’ at the centrally located hotel that hits all the city’s sweetspots
By Zeena Holland
Lots of families I know, while staying in a hotel on a city break, will devise arduous itineraries to ensure time is maximised and not frittered away in a room watching Netfli . ikes are planned, tours are booked, not an inch of the icinity will be left une plored. e are not this family. e are less sei e and more snoo e the day. e need to sleep well, eat a lot and in between, indulge in a little mooching. e’ll take in a few shops maybe, some gentle sightseeing perhaps, a nice lunch most likely. f we e ert any energy, we might swim a bit, but let’s be clear, this generally in ol es bobbing about on a float, hair bone dry. ny sign of serious swimming taking place, and we’ll turn immediately out of there, summoning the lift faster than you can say room ser ice’.
So, this is why the pe City of Bath otel, for a weekend stay, particularly appealed. ery centrally located, there are shops, tourist hotspots and a variety of restaurants on its doorstep, plus a 15m pool designed for leisure, not laps. t sounded perfect for our moochy family break. Ne ertheless, dri ing o er, ’m still unsure of what to expect, city hotels putting me more in mind of pinstripes and PowerPoint presentations than family fun.’ hen we arri e, howe er, ’m happy to report, myself, husband ete, year old son Zain and daughter Yasmin, 11, are more than pleasantly surprised. e check in around pm on riday night, Pete and I are already in need of beer and wine, respectively, thanks to gridlock between Bristol and Bath. he friendly concierge, as if reading our minds, informs us of the hotel’s facilities, leading with the bar.
Apex City of Bath Hotel, James Street West, Bath, BA1 2D; tel: 01225 418500; www.apexhotels.co.uk
Rooms 178 rooms, with prices starting at £143
Restaurant Orange Artichoke
Open weekdays
7am-9.30pm and weekends
7.30am-9.30pm
Established August 2017 and is Apex Hotel’s first and only purpose built hotel. The Apex Collection can also be found in London, Dundee, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Type of food served
Contemporary British cuisine in the main. The restaurant prides itself on using locally-sourced ingredients as much as possible
Specialities
The Bertha Grill is the à la Carte menu’s highlight, with a good selection of steak types and accompanying sauces
Starters £8-£11
Mains £11-£30
Desserts £9-£12
Cocktails £7.50-£11
Service and atmosphere
The staff are exceptionally welcoming throughout and the service is prompt. The restaurant’s assistant food and beverages manager, Deniel, deserves special mention for being a fabulous front of house, keeping the mood between the kitchen and restaurant consistently buoyant, even during busy service
What else? The hotel offers afternoon tea, FridaySunday, 12-4pm, with a choice of cakes, finger sandwiches and homemade scones. There are also prosecco and champagne options available, too. Prices start from £26.
Disability access
The entrance has ramp access and railings with automatic sensor doors and there are guest elevators throughout with access for all abilities. There are nine fully accessible bedrooms and level flooring throughout to access all areas. The restaurant and bar furniture is also easily movable for access.
Added bonus There is a luxury swimming pool, sauna, steam room and gym. The hotel is also home to Bath’s largest conference space
Outside, Bath is infectiously buzzing with early evening expectancy and as we head to our room, I spot a gaggle of hens in matching t-shirts congregating nearby. “Ah, fun!” I say aloud, before praying silently that they’re not staying in our hotel.
It’s a relief to see the family room is spacious, with a king-sized bed and another super-king. The décor is contemporary and there’s beautiful Georgian architecture opposite us, framed by a large window spanning the width of the room. There are lovely ntipodes smellies in the bathroom, free fast wifi and we’re all very happy to see the telly is a good size. With the door shut, the room is also very quiet, much to my relief, should those hens be staying after all.
There’s enough time for the kids to demolish the complimentary hot chocolate, before we head down to dinner. We’re dining at the hotel’s Orange Artichoke, a restaurant with a functional but grown-up vibe thanks to Chinese ginger lanterns and a mirrored back wall creating a cle er infinity effect. hile sip a delicious Lebanese red which has been recommended a tempranillo and cabernet blend from Chateau umsiyat I imagine the design brief included the words ‘art deco’ and ‘easy-clean’.
To start, we have homemade cheddar pastries, crab croquettes and smoked ham hock terrine, all of which we ery much enjoy. ur mains a beef burger each for the kids, battered haddock and chips for Pete and a juicy sirloin for me are equally de oured. e finish with desserts of brownies, strawberry semi freddo and coffee crème brûlée, before we retreat to our room with energy only to remark on how we full we are. We digest on our comfy beds in front of Netfli .
We rise the next day well-rested and amazingly, ready for breakfast, helpfully served until 11am for the more ‘unhurried’ of guests. And while our dinner was good, breakfast is exceptional. Plates of crispy bacon, glistening with syrup, on fluffy pancakes, are licked clean by the kids. Pete’s Eggs Benedict, with thick proper ham and a generous puddle of hollandaise, is ‘genuinely lush’. And my three-egg cheese omelette couldn’t have sorted my Lebanese-red head more.
When we head out to The Foodies Festival in Victoria Park, just a ten-minute walk away, I announce there’ll be no lunch today. There’s no objection to this. We’re meandering from stall to stall, sipping real lemonade, when we spy cannolis, and before I know it, I’m tapping my card and we’re eating again. I only pause my pistachio cannoli when I spot two of last year’s a e contestants, Gill and Mike, and accost them for a photo with Zain and Yasmin.
Later, we head back to the hotel to escape the rain. By this point, I’ve eaten so much food, I feel the need to phone in some mild exertion. I leave Pete and the kids in front of a film and head to the pool.
As I wade gently in, I notice around me a couple sweetly floating together a young family playing in the waterfall and a group of women catching up poolside. There is no serious swimming to be seen.
I like it here.
After a curry in the evening at Panahar, a delicious BYO Indian restaurant on Moorland Road in nearby ldfield ark again another easy walk from this centrally located hotel we ow soup and salad suppers for the foreseeable when we get home. But we all agree we should probably make the most of that bountiful breakfast before we head off.
“The family room is spacious... and the decor is contemporary”
“I’d stay there again,” Pete says on the drive back to Bristol. “It’s so central, we could go for the Bath Christmas Market?” I know he’s probably already thinking about sampling the hearty fry-up that we saw floating past us to a nearby table this morning, while ’m thinking wine, shop, sleep, repeat...
As the cold begins to bite, we all need a little fire and substance in our diet to keep us fueled up and energised. So we turned to one of Bath’s best known cooks, Noya awlyn of Noya’s itchen, to pro ide us with a dish, and her chicken and ginger chilli stew ( a ao ung) is just the winter ticket
s we mo e into the colder months, our a ao ung chicken and ginger chilli stew often makes the specials list and my supper club menu, says Noya. t’s a lo ely, warming dish of chicken, braised in coconut water with aromatic notes of ginger and chillies. Simple to make, with a bit of a spicy kick, and so ery moreish to eat ickles help balance the sauce’s intensity and add a lo ely ing. hinly slice cucumber or red onion, and lea e in a dissol ed solution of tablespoons caster sugar, tablespoons rice inegar, and teaspoon salt for minutes. ickled beansprouts, radish, and daikon (white radish) also work well.
Ingredients (serves 4 people)
g ginger, cut into matchsticks
clo es of chopped garlic onion, finely sliced fresh whole chillies (use less if you like it less spicy)
tsp sesame oil
tsp toasted sesame seeds
For the marinade g chicken thighs, cut into cm strips
tsp chilli flakes
tbsp fish sauce
tbsp brown sugar
Method
For the sauce
tbsp brown sugar
tbsp fish sauce
tbsp oyster sauce
tbsp light soya sauce
tsp corn flour
9 ml of water or coconut water
First marinate your chicken. n a large bowl, combine the chicken and ingredients for the marinade and mi well. Co er for at least minutes, or if you ha e time, place in the fridge o ernight.
n a hot wok, add the oil and stir fry the ginger until it’s fragrant. o e the ginger to the side of the wok and add the sliced onion and whole chillies, frying until fragrant. o e all the ingredients to the side.
dd the chicken to the wok, browning on both sides. i the ginger and onion together with the chicken. hen add the garlic and mi well.
i the sauce ingredients together and add to the wok, stirring for a few minutes. Co er with a lid and simmer for mins on a low heat.
emo e the lid and increase the heat to reduce the sauce for about mins, or to the consistency you like. ransfer to a dish and stir in the sesame oil.
arnish with the sesame seeds, coriander and ser e with jasmine rice. n
For more: Noya’s Kitchen, 7 St James’s Parade, Bath; www.noyaskitchen.co.uk
Tennygrove Vineyard, set on the south-facing slopes just north-east of Bath, has released its first collection of nglish sparkling wines the relude dition. he launch marks the start of an ambitious new enture by local couple lly and upert alsh, who planted ennygro e in ay after years of dreaming about creating their own ineyard.
he oyal nited ospitals ( ) Bath N S oundation rust has teamed up with local grocer ean Cooper from ild bout ruit and eg, to pro ide a fresh produce stall at the hospital’s eston site. Barry ennell, senior catering lead at the , says, s a hospital we are all about supporting healthy choices, so ’m delighted we’ e been able to work with ean to bring fruit and eg right to our doorstep. he stall is open to all, you don’t ha e to work here or be a patient at the , anyone from the local community is welcome to pop by for some lo ely fresh produce. know ean and his team ha e lots of ideas in the pipeline, starting with fruit baskets which would make great gifts for patients.
For more: www.ruh.nhs.uk
atching the film A Good Year every year for the past decade then actually buying a farm on the edge of Bath, we couldn’t shake the idea of ines here, says lly. hen the opportunity came, we knew this land with its limestone rich soil and gentle slopes could produce something special. relude dition is our first step.
ennygro e’s first home grown har est is taking place now, and the couple are in iting local people to share the e perience with monthly olunteer mornings and har est days offer a chance to learn basic ineyard skills, get hands on among the ines, and enjoy a good cup of coffee. e want ennygro e to be part of the local community, says upert. hese first bottles are just the beginning. For more: www.tennygrove.com
e’re soon approaching the third hursday in No ember, which can mean only one thing Beaujolais ay. he day marks the arri al of the first bottles of Beaujolais Nou eau wine, and is traditionally celebrated across rance with fireworks, music and parties. he concept drifted across the sea in the 97 s when two wine writers came up with the idea of a race to get the first bottles of Beaujolais Nou eau across the Channel, from rance to ondon. t later became part of the Swansea social scene in the 9 s thanks to a bar run by former ales international Clem homas who held one of the first known Beaujolais ay celebrations.
Now Corkage on Chapel ow is helping Bathonians celebrate. he team, including Corkage owners ichard nighting and arty rant, will be donning stripes and berets (you’re warmly encouraged to do the same) and ser ing up rustic rench food, Beaujolais, and good times to help mark the occasion. ickets cost £ . per personand include a course set menu and a glass of Beauj. Sant
For more: www.corkagebath.com
SWhen it comes to celebrating Christmas in Bath, few places capture the festive spirit quite like BARDACIOUS
ince opening in 2024, this vibrant Southern Californian-inspired venue on Quiet Street has quickly become one of the city’s most talked-about destinations. And at Christmas, it truly comes alive: glowing with warmth, laughter and that unmistakable holiday sparkle.
Housed in a grand former bank, Bardacious makes an instant impression with its soaring ceilings and colourful, sun-soaked aesthetic. Come December, it transforms into a festive wonderland filled with twinkling lights, garlands, a glittering tree and plenty of sparkle. The result is a setting that feels both glamorous and welcoming: the perfect place to eat, drink and be merry with your favourite people.
Bardacious is made for groups who want to celebrate in style. Whether you’re planning a cosy dinner with close friends or a big festive gettogether with the whole family, the restaurant’s spacious layout can cater for parties of all sizes. Tables are beautifully decorated, and the atmosphere is warm, relaxed and full of good cheer.
The festive menu captures Bardacious’s signature Californian flair with a seasonal twist. Small plates include crispy Duck Tacos with mango habanero and red cabbage, Turkey Quesadillas with cranberry and barbecue glaze, and veganfriendly Jackfruit Wings with pico de gallo and chipotle mayo. Seafood lovers can enjoy Smoked Mackerel Tostadas with smashed avocado and pickled onions, while sides like Halloumi Fries, Pigs in Blankets with cranberry BBQ sauce, and a Honey & Lemon Kale Salad bring plenty of flavour to the table. To finish, desserts range from indulgent Sticky Toffee Pudding and classic Christmas Pudding with brandy sauce, to a creamy
New York Cheesecake with berry coulis and cardamom cream, or a refreshing Sorbet Selection for a lighter end to the feast.
A highlight for this season is the venue’s Agaveria and bar, which proudly features its own in-house brand of ultra-premium Tequila. Labelled UXMAL, this exclusive Bardacious creation represents the full spectrum of fine Tequila, with four distinct varieties available only within the restaurant. Crafted with care and passion, UXMAL showcases Bardacious’s commitment to quality and innovation, and stands among the finest Tequilas available in the UK today.
The bar itself operates to the same exacting standards: everything is made fresh and in-house, even to the bitters that go into the renowned cocktails. Bardacious is renowned for serving the best margaritas in Bath, expertly mixed using UXMAL whilst being offered at an affordable price.
Throughout December, Bardacious hosts live music nights, DJs and festive events that keep the mood high and the good times rolling. Whether you’re catching up with old friends, raising a glass with family, or dancing the night away, Bardacious brings a little extra sparkle to the season: the ultimate spot to celebrate Christmas in style. n
CELEBRATE THE COMFORTS AND FLAVOURS OF THE SEASON
Begin 2026 with a menu that captures the warmth and character of winter. The Winter Fixed Price Menu brings together seasonal ingredients and simple, beautifully balanced flavours.
Enjoy dishes such as Smoked Cod’s Roe Mousse with Beetroot and Chardonnay Vinegar, Cornish Fish of the Day with Parsnip and Sesame, and Baked Caramel Tart with Apple and Crème Fraiche — each thoughtfully created to showcase the best of the season and ideal for an unhurried lunch or a cosy dinner in the heart of Bath.
Available Monday to Thursday, from 5th January to 31st March 2026.
Lunch – Two Courses £35 | Three Courses £39
Dinner – Two Courses £38 | Three Courses £45
View the full menu and reserve a table at royalcrescent.co.uk/eat-drink
16 Royal Crescent, Bath BA1 2LS
+44 (0) 1225 823333
events@royalcrescent.co.uk
royalcrescent.co.uk
BANDOOK
3–7 Milsom Place, Bath BA1 1BZ; 01225 300600; www.bandookkitchen.com
BARDACIOUS
8-9 Quiet St, Bath BA1 2JN; 01225 698600; www.bardacious.co.uk
BATH RACECOURSE
HARTLEY FARM
Winsley, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 2JB; 01225 864948; www.hartley-farm.co.uk
HOMEWOOD PARK
Abbey Lane, Freshford, Bath BA2 7TB; 01225 580439; www.homewoodbath.co.uk
Lansdown, Bath; BA1 9BU; 01225 424609; www.bath-racecourse.co.uk
BATH SPA HOTEL
Sydney Rd, Bath BA2 6NS; 0344 879 9106; www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/bath
BIKANOS
25 Claverton Buildings BA2 4LD; 01225 533591; www.bikanos.co.uk
BISHOPSTROW
Boreham Rd, Warminster BA12 9HH; 01985 804680; www.bishopstrowhotel.com
BOOM BATTLE BAR
Kingsmead Complex, Bath BA1 2BX; 01225 634001; www.boombattlebar.com/uk/bath
CORKAGE
5 Chapel Row, Bath BA1 1HN; 01225 423417; www.corkagebath.com
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON BATH
Walcot St, Bath BA1 5BJ; 01225 463411; www.hilton.com
EMBERWOOD
Francis Hotel, 5 Queen Square Bath; 01225 473351; www.emberwoodbath.com
HUDSON STEAKHOUSE
FIVE ZEROS
Kingston Farm, Holt Rd, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1TS; 01225 259653; www.fivezeros.co.uk
14 London St, Bath BA1 5BU; 01225 332323; www.hudsonsteakhouse.co.uk
KOMEDIA
22–23 Westgate St, Bath BA1 1EP; 01225 489070; www.komediabath.co.uk
LILLIPUT FARM
A420, Wick BS30 5RU; 0117 932 6313; www.lilliputfarm.com
THE MARLBOROUGH TAVERN
35 Marlborough Buildings, Bath BA1 2LY; 01225 423731; www.marlborough-tavern.com
RENGEN HOUSE
4 Argyle St, Bath BA2 4BA; 01225 562692; www.rengenhouse.com
ROBUN
Princes Buildings, 4 George St, Bath BA1 2ED; 01225 698127; www.robun.co.uk
ROOT SPICE
15 Argyle St, Bath BA2 4BQ; 01225 698127; www.rootspice.co.uk
SE7EN
7 Edgar Buildings, Bath BA1 2EE; 01225 484433; www.se7enbath.com
THE BATH PRIORY
THE BEEFY BOYS
24 Milsom St, Bath BA1 1DG; www.thebeefyboys.com
THE CATHERINE WHEEL (MARSHFIELD)
39 High St, Marshfield SN14 8LR; 01225 892220; www.thecatherinewheel.co.uk
THE GAINSBOROUGH
Beau St, Bath BA1 1QY; 01225 358888; www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk
Weston Rd, Bath BA1 2XT; 01225 331922; www.thebathpriory.co.uk
THE GEORGE ON GEORGE ST 9 Edgar Buildings, Bath BA1 2EE; 01225 400193; www.thegeorgebath.com
THE IVY BATH BRASSERIE & GARDEN
39 Milsom St, Bath BA1 1DS; 01225 307 100; www.ivycollection.com
THE MANOR HOUSE Castle Combe; Castle Combe, Nr Bath SN14 7HX, 01249 782206; www.exclusive.co.uk/the-manor-house
THE OLD BELL HOTEL (MALMESBURY)
Abbey Row, Malmesbury SN16 0BW; 01666 822344; www.oldbellhotel.co.uk
THE ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL (MONTAGU’S MEWS)
16 Royal Crescent, Bath BA1 2LS; 01225 823333; www.royalcrescent.co.uk
THE SEPOY CLUB
1 York Buildings, Bath BA1 2EB; 01225 464455; www.thesepoyclub.co.uk
WHATLEY MANOR
Easton Grey SN16 0RB; 01666 822888; www.whatleymanor.com n
As the nights are draw in and the temperature drops, what better way to tackle the winter blues than a pint of beer or something stronger next to a roaring fire? Pick your spot to hole up for the season with the help of this guide to Bath’s cosiest spots this winter
23 Vineyards, Bath BA1 5NA 01225 425072; www.star-inn-bath.co.uk
Situated on Vineyards (The Paragon), The Star Inn is Abbey Ales brewery tap and remains a classic example of an untouched multi-roomed English public house, where beer is still served from the jug. Popular beers on tap include Abbey Ales and Bass. First licensed in 1760, The Star Inn retains many of its original features including 19th century bar fittings and wooden benches. Described by CAMRA (The Campaign for Real Ale) as a ‘rare and unspoiled pub interior of outstanding historic interest’, The Star Inn is listed on the National Inventory of Heritage Pubs. The pub features four separate drinking areas. The smaller bar, used by many of the regulars, features a long single bench known as ‘death row’ where a complimentary pinch of snuff can still be found in tins on the ledge above the wall panelling. Uninterrupted by juke boxes or gaming machines, chat amongst the locals is the theme along with dominoes, cribbage, shove halfpenny and live music.
9 Green St, Bath, BA1 2JY; @thewellybath hello@thewellybath.com; www.thewellybath.com
The Welly is a new taproom and small-plates venue from the team behind Somer Valley Brewing and Somer Valley Farms. The taproom will showcase Somer Valley Brewing’s range of craft beers, all brewed using barley grown on their farm with water from the borehole. Head chef, Peter Lewis (formerly of Bunch of Grapes and Henry’s) serves up small plates inspired by a nose-to-tail, zero-waste ethos, using produce from their farm and in-house butchery, with all the beers paired to match the flavour profiles of each dish. Expect low food miles and high flavour, plus modern takes on pub favourites like homemade pork scratchings and warm scotch eggs. Your local just got more local!
35 Marlborough Buildings, Bath, BA1 2LY 01225 423731; www.marlborough-tavern.com
Situated around the corner from the Royal Crescent, The Marlborough Tavern combines the friendly atmosphere of a local pub with the quality of a top restaurant. Its two AA rosettes plus a clutch of local and national awards reflect the quality of the food and service you will enjoy.
When it comes to food, The Marlborough Tavern uses the best local produce to create great-tasting dishes where the quality speaks for itself. Above all, it’s about celebrating great British produce. Whether you’re thinking of dining, having a quick snack or just popping in for a pint, you’ll be welcomed with a smile.
13 Fountain Buildings, Lansdown Road, Bath, BA1 5DX 01225 425403; www.mandalynsbar.co.uk
Bath’s favourite and longest-standing gay bar, Mandalyns is open to all and known for its friendly vibe, great drink prices and lively social scene. A popular student spot, it’s home to some of the best drink deals in the city and stays open until 3am most nights. Mandalyns runs a packed weekly schedule of events, including Drag Karaoke Thursdays with Phillupa Bucket and Karaoke with DJ Cici on Fridays and Saturdays, plus Industry Sundays and nightly Happy Hour offers until 10pm. The bar also hosts monthly drag cabaret nights featuring top performers from across the UK, along with its popular annual Christmas parties, bringing exciting entertainment to the heart of Bath. More than just a bar, Mandalyns is an inclusive space where everyone feels welcome and at home.
17 Northumberland Place, Bath BA1 5AR 01225 463568; www.coeur-de-lion.co.uk
One of Bath’s hidden gems, the Coeur De Lion is a cosy traditional pub full of period features located in the heart of the city in the pedestrianised Northumberland Place opposite the Guildhall. It enjoys the distinction of being Bath’s smallest pub, with signs above the seating reminding customers to ‘budge up’ and is almost, as far as the owners know, the only pub of this name in the country. Attracting both friendly locals and adventurous tourists drawn to the fantastic Abbey Ales beer, diverse mix of conversation and traditional classic pub food – bangers & mash, and fish & chips. The Coeur De Lion particularly comes alive on Bath Rugby days both before and after games.
39 High St, Marshfield, Chippenham SN14 8LR 01225 892220; www.thecatherinewheel.co.uk
Nestled in the picturesque village of Marshfield, just eight miles north of Bath, The Catherine Wheel is a welcoming 17th-century inn full of charm and character. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after exploring one of the many local walks or cycle routes, including the Cotswold Way and Limestone Link.
Step inside to discover cosy fires, comfortable rooms, and a friendly atmosphere where dogs are always welcome. The Catherine Wheel is renowned for its real ales and delicious, home-cooked food made from quality local ingredients. Whether you’re stopping in for lunch, a hearty dinner, or a weekend escape, it’s the ideal base to enjoy nearby attractions such as Castle Combe and Westonbirt Arboretum.
Bookings are now open for our festive menu, available throughout December (excluding Christmas Day and Boxing Day).
01225 962004
info@neuroconnectrehab.co.uk www.neuroconnectrehab.co.uk
LEFT: Dr Dana Beiki of Baudelaire Aesthetics; INSET: Dana uses the clinically proven SkinPen device; BELOW: Sarah’s skin immediately after treatment, and then looking settled within 24 hours
Sarah Baker e periences a hi tech and bloody’ regenerati e microneedling
The world of beauty aesthetics can sometimes sound so science y, that it erges on the sci fi. hich is why it’s helpful to ha e someone such as r ana Beiki of Baudelaire esthetics, to translate the jargon into beauty speak’. e is a pharmacist and a specialist in clinical and regenerative aesthetics, focusing on regenerati e and e idence based approaches to skin health and aesthetics. is clinical research background in skin cellular repair e ol ed into a desire to help people harness that same regenerati e potential, translating years of laboratory study into treatments that restore confidence and wellbeing’. nd he begins all his clients’ journeys with a simple starting point what do you want to achie e re you hoping to soften a feature, impro e te ture, or simply look more rested his, in turn, leads to a thorough consultation.
treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), the biological response becomes even more effecti e. hat e actly is ell this is the bit that blew my mind it is deri ed from the client’s own blood and deli ers concentrated growth factors that enhance cellular repair.
“ The red blood cells are separated from the plasma”
hat’s right, my own blood will be collected, spun at some incredibly fast speed to separate the red blood cells from the plasma. hen, when the microneedling is performed, the plasma is applied topically. return the following week for the treatment appointment, which started with ana assessing my medical background and doing a double check that ’m still happy with our treatment choice. quick acting numbing cream is applied to my face and neck.
delicately painted onto the face and neck with a fine brush, and then allowed to dry into the skin. hat’s happening ere’s the science hese microchannels gently reproduce the skin’s healing mechanism, a refined ersion of what happens when we mend a small wound. his subtle stimulation acti ates the wound healing cascade, prompting the release of growth factors that awaken fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin. s circulation and o ygenation impro e, the e tracellular matri , the skin’s internal scaffolding, begins to reorganise and strengthen itself from within.
ana’s aftercare is e emplary. e takes time to e plain all the dos and don’ts in the coming hours and days, whilst careful to remind me that impro ements don’t appear o ernight, that they de elop gradually as the skin rebuilds itself. feel fine, and after a minute wait and a uality Street because had gi en blood, could lea e. ana had warned me of the redness and looking sore for the rest of the day there is a downtime to this treatment and to be on the safe side aesthetically allow hours for the skin to settle. hat would be the ma imum by hours personally felt like it wasn’t really noticeable.
hat was noticeable, within just a week, my skin tone already looks and feels more hydrated, and is more luminous. hese are ama ing signs for a treatment whose benefits, ’m told, will peak after three to four months. he future looks bright, and the future is science! n
ogether, we choose a microneedling treatment combined with (platelet rich plasma), looking to target elasticity, designed to e en te ture, reduce finer lines, and increase luminosity. icroneedling is a medical grade procedure that uses ery fine, sterile needles to create microscopic channels in the skin, precise, controlled cues that mimic the body’s own repair process and awaken its natural capacity to renew.’ hen microneedling is combined with regenerati e
eanwhile, ana took two phials of my blood in the e act same way as any clinician takes blood for a regular procedure. fter minutes, the numbing cream had done its job, and the microneedling could commence. ana uses the Skin en de ice, which is which is cleared for safety and precision. he microneedles barely penetrate the skin (for me up to . mm, . mm around the eyes) enough to be felt, a bit like being scratched, but not enough to hurt. t feels slightly uncomfortable at worst, and at this stage, my skin is ery red but it doesn’t bleed. nce the face and neck ha e been co ered in the micro channels, my own plasma was
Microneedling with PRP Face & Neck
Treatment time – between 90 – 120 minutes
Costs – £345
Downtime – allow 48 hours
Recommended – Most clients begin with a course of three to six sessions, spaced around four to six weeks apart.
For more: Baudelaire Aesthetics, The Somerset Rooms, Third Floor, 14 Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HN. tel: 01225 688088; www.baudelaireclinic.com
By Rachel Ifans
BY
Here we meet the local jewellers that don’t just set stones; they capture stories, celebrate milestones, and create future heirlooms. These modern-day artisans explain how they masterfully blend traditional craft with personal vision and client collaboration. From initial concept sketch to the final polish, we e plore the intricate process of sourcing materials, developing concepts, looking at designs, and going on to create unique, beautiful pieces.
Ariana Watling, The Tanyard, Church Street, Lacock; www.arianawatling.com
For third-generation jeweller Ariana Watling, craftsmanship runs deep in the family. “My starting point for my inspiration comes from my grandfather Graham Watling’s silversmithing pieces from over 50 years ago,” she says.
“It feels really special to be a third-generation jeweller following in my grandfather and then my father’s footsteps.”
As well as learning her trade from her father John Watling, who completed a traditional apprenticeship in Hatton Garden during the 1980s, the pieces that Ariana creates are handmade using tools she has inherited. “All of my work is handmade by me, using my father and grandfather’s tools which go back many
years,” she explains.
For Ariana, the creative process is tactile. “I am a very practical designer, so I tend to work straight into the metal.” This means she doesn’t sketch or render online, she explains. “By working directly with the material, I can design in my head as I go.”
As evidenced by the stunning array of pieces for sale in her Lacock workshop, Ariana says she loves to work with silver because of its beauty, adaptability and more affordable price. hether sil er or gold, all metals used in the workshop are recycled. This not only means that she can guarantee her sustainable ethos to clients, but also that she can vouch for the quality and beauty of source materials.
Many clients come to her for bespoke transformations, a part of her work that is both meaningful and creative. “Using customers’ metal is a great way to be sustainable,” she says. “Not only are you reusing the material, but you’re keeping the sentimentality of the piece.”
If you’re after Christmas gift ideas, Ariana recommends her Dippin Dot bracelet, a piece she crafted using the blade of her father’s hammer to create a unique dappled texture. And she invites budding jewellers to join her in one of her studio workshops to try their own hand at heritage jewellery making.
“The process allows clients to be part of creativeevery stage”
S P Green knows how to make the most of modern tech
designs so that clients can get a real feel of their jewellery commission prior to our talented creators handmaking the finished piece in the workshop, e plains manager
clients to be part of every creative stage, ensuring their ision comes to life flawlessly.
It’s not all high-tech; material choice is also a key part of the design process. “I recommend either 18ct yellow gold or platinum as a preferred metal,” says Charlie.
“However we have recently started working in 14ct gold which can be a little more budget friendly.”
hate er metal you choose, S reen like to create pieces that reflect a client’s indi iduality, whether through engravings, heirloom stones or bespoke arrangements.
nd there’s another benefit to using gold or platinum, Charlie says. “If all goes wrong, or if your tastes change, adaptions and redesigns are always possible. This is the beauty of gold and platinum; they can be melted down and you start again.”
Talking about recycling and reuse, sustainability and ethics are very much at the heart of S P Green’s business.
“All our natural diamonds and gemstones are ethically sourced and much of the gold we use today is recycled,” Charlie notes. lthough the team also offers lab grown diamonds, Charlie is keen to emphasise that the industry’s increasingly regulated ethical standards mean that natural diamonds are still a viable option.
Austens Jewellers, 2 Widcombe Parade, Bath; www.austensjewellers.co.uk
t ustens ewellers, the first steps are always about pinning down the vision; it’s the creative kernel of any project, says manager Tony Hayward.
“Creating a truly unique piece of jewellery begins with transforming your ideas and inspirations into a beautiful, tangible design.” So, whether clients arrive with a clear concept or a just a mere spark of inspiration, the team will work closely with them to bring their ideas to life through detailed sketches and CAD visuals.
“Reusing repurposingand what we already have prevents mining”new
LEFT: Vintage soleil studs from Austens Jewellers; BELOW: Austens’ ready-to-wear collection is crafted in-house
Tony explains, “These designs allow you to see how different elements such as form, metal and setting either work in harmony, or don’t. he process, which typically takes four to si weeks, ensures time for careful refinement, from concept and material selection to the meticulous hand finishing that defines ustens’ works of art.
BELOW: Melissa Holt, founder of Holts Jewellery; INSET: Ethics and sustainability are at the core of the brand’s philosophy
ach intage inspired design is handcrafted in olts’ atton arden workshop, taking around si to eight weeks to complete. owe er, for those in search of something quicker, the brand’s Celeste iamonds lab grown antique cut stones can be set into a chosen design with less lead time. ur Celeste iamonds are lab grown using solar energy and cut in the antique style, elissa e plains, meaning that they’re sustainable, unique and truly beautiful.
ou won’t be surprised to hear that ethics and sustainability are at the core of the brand’s philosophy. intage or antique ring is the most ethical and sustainable choice, elissa muses. eusing and repurposing what we already ha e pre ents new mining and all the issues that come with it.
elissa is also inspired by indi iduality and lo es creating pieces for clients that incorporate heirloom gold or add hidden engra ings. Sentimental elements are such a lo ely touch, she smiles. e often include special engra ings or reuse family gold to make wedding bands e en more meaningful.
elissa lo es getting clients in ol ed in all the details, whether it’s carat weight, metal tone or finish but she’s also a fan of their tried and tested engra ing styles like her signature range Blossom pattern which is completely hand engra ed and based on an original 9 s design.
hen it comes to choosing materials, ony recommends platinum and ct gold for their durability and timeless appeal, while 9ct gold is an ace for those on more of a budget. e’s also a big fan of sapphires and diamonds which are re ered for their brilliance and longe ity. Sustainability is also a key part of ustens’ procurement process. ll our materials are responsibly sourced, from conflict free gemstones and recycled gold to lab grown diamonds, ony confirms.
f course, when it comes down to it, material choice is about all these things, but also about the client’s personal preferences and practical considerations. f ecember is coming for you like a freight train and time is too tight for bespoke commissions, ustens also offers a ready to wear collection, all crafted in house with the same attention to detail.
Holts Jewellery, 10 Laura Place, Bath; www.holtsjewellery.co.uk or those who adore antique jewellery but are fussy so and so’s who can ne er find that piece that’s just right’, head for olts ewellery in aura lace. t offers the perfect balance between heritage and modern craftsmanship , says founder elissa olt. ur selection of intage and antique rings offers a great start for inspiration. e lo e incorporating the details you find on intage rings but don’t usually see on modern ones, like scrolled baskets and delicate engra ing.
Wylde Jewellers, 12 Northumberland Place, Bath; www.nicholaswylde.com
Wylde Jewellers are safe hands when it comes to jewellery design, customer service and artistry. “Everything begins with a friendly design consultation at our central Bath store, where clients can bring ideas, sketches, photos, or even a story or emotion they want captured,” explains Nick Wood, business manager. “We sketch designs by hand right there in the appointment, e ploring different looks until we find the one.’ nce appro ed, designs are refined through CAD renderings before being meticulously handcrafted in their on-site Bath workshop, a process that typically takes around fi e weeks.
ecently named finalists for Bespoke etailer of the ear’ at the National ssociation of ewellers wards, ylde ewellers is a stalwart in Bath’s shopping offering. nd it’s not hard to see why customers like them so much. “We guide clients through options in all the precious metals, explaining the pros and cons of each for durability, colour and price,” says Wood. “We can source an enormous variety of gemstones and talk through how each performs in daily wear, so every design balances strength, sparkle and budget.”
t’s a no nonsense and sensible approach that appeals to many people who are in danger of getting befuddled as soon as they step foot in a jeweller’s shop.
ersonalisation remains central to ylde’s philosophy, whether resetting heirloom stones, engraving hidden messages or adding birthstones. “We love weaving personal stories into our designs, he reflects. hose kind of details turn a piece of jewellery into a treasured keepsake with a story all of its own.”
Nick is also super-reassuring when it comes to the company’s ethics. ll of our diamonds are carefully sourced from suppliers who comply with the Kimberley rocess Certification Scheme, he e plains. e always use recycled gold and can e en reuse a client’s own precious metal, ensuring every piece is made with integrity as well as craftsmanship.”
Icarus Jewellery,
3
Not many locals have walked over Pulteney Bridge in recent years without having their heads turned by the massive and super-cool octopus jewellery in carus’ shop window. n fact, that’s just the start, before your eye starts wandering to chunky rings, eclectic pendants and quirky bracelets. Bold designs like that only come off if the artist behind them is a master of their trade and that’s true in ilek oroglu’s case. e design our jewellery based on our extensive experience,” says owner ilek. aking our customers’ e pectations into account, we first prepare the collections as designs and then transform them into products.”
ust a glance in that window and you’ll know that these designs draw inspiration from many places; nature, history, mythology, the aesthetic arts and much more besides.
he brand’s signature material is sil er, a conscious choice rooted in sustainability and skill. “We use silver, one of the healthiest and most durable metals in the world,” explains Dilek. “Its recyclability and sustainability is important to us.”
Although Dilek focuses almost solely on silver, the eclectism of her range reveals itself through precious and semi precious stones adornments and final finishes that vary between oxide, matte, polish, gold plating or hammered te ture. She manages to achie e that elusi e and treasured outcome, where every design has a unique personality but each piece boasts the same quality and attention to detail.
ilek’s work is constantly e ol ing and de eloping and she embraces the idea of jewellery that evolves over time. t’s possible for sil er to be melted and redesigned, she says. “I love the thought that every product can be transformed into something completely new.”
Christina Oswin, 18 Cheap Street, Frome; www.christinaoswin.co.uk
ery creation begins with a con ersation, says Christina swin, the respected rome jeweller. t’s a shared e ploration of inspiration, emotion and artistry.
e start with a chat about your idea, then by trying on e isting pieces from our collection and through sketches or digital C renderings, we can translate your ision into something tangible, she says.
a particular style, we refine your ision into a one of a kind design.
rom concept to completion, most pieces take between si to eight weeks. hile that may seem like a long time, especially when time is ticking until Christmas, ody is committed to craftsmanship, precision and perfection, howe er long it takes.
Selecting the right materials is both an art and a science. or timeless beauty, ct gold or platinum are ideal choices, ody e plains. or e eryday wear, 9ct gold offers e cellent durability and alue.
Sustainability is also central to ody’s ethos and she is passionate about her customers feeling as good wearing their pieces as she does making them. e offer airtrade, airmined, Single ine rigin and recycled gold, she says. here are many misconceptions about what ethical’ means, but we guide our clients carefully through their options, whether that’s natural diamonds or lab grown alternati es.
his collaborati e process, typically spanning four to si weeks, allows each client to refine e ery detail before the final piece is meticulously handcrafted.
Choosing the right metals and gemstones isn’t just about aesthetics it’s about creating jewellery that endures, Christina e plains. Clients are guided through the nuances of sil er, gold and platinum, while diamonds and sapphires are recommended for their timeless brilliance and durability. he result is a piece as practical as it is poetic.
She wea es sustainability and ethics into e ery stage of creation. e’re committed to ethical practices and responsible sourcing. ur metals are e clusi ely recycled or airmined, and we offer traceable gemstones, conflict free cean iamonds and lab grown diamonds which are created using renewable energy.
ach design seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with modern inno ation, combining hand forged artistry with C precision. hether you’re the type who likes to mi up gold and sil er in the same piece, with a stacked trio of gemstone rings, or someone who likes some delicate floral inspiration in your jewellery, Christina is a master designer whose works suits many different age groups. She also specialises in transforming heirloom pieces, resetting gemstones or melting down gold to create new treasures that are designed to li e on while honouring their past.
Jody Cory Goldsmiths, 9 Abbey Churchyard, Bath; www.jodycory.co.uk
t ody Cory ewellery, e ery bespoke commission begins as a collaboration between designer and client. e begin e ery commission by e ploring your ideas through sketches or C renderings, helping you isualise your piece before it’s made, says jeweller ody. hether you’re inspired by a photograph, an heirloom or just
nd for anyone trying to tick some Christmas presents off the list, ody is a dab hand at repurposing old pieces. She says ewellery is deeply personal. emodelling allows us to preser e emotional significance while creating something new and beautiful.
She’s definitely talking our language when she says ur aim is to strike the perfect balance between beauty, practicality, and budget.
BY DERRYN VRANCH
Tina Engell, 3 Bartlett Street, Bath; www.tinaengell.com
For many years,Tina Engell has struck a careful balance between timeless style and a very individual design and it’s not unusual to be able to recognise pieces that she made donkeys years ago and are still being worn and loved.
How does she do it? Well, she says, it’s as much about connection as it is about craftsmanship. “I start by showing clients my style of jewellery design just to start the conversation,” Tina explains. “There must be understanding and trust between us; what the client has in mind must align with what I can create.”
“Metal, gems and pricing are all very important discussions,” says ina. ach decision ensures the finished piece reflects both beauty and practicality.”
But it’s trust that remains at the heart of Tina’s work; a chain of confidence between customer, jeweller and suppliers. ur business is based on trust,” she says, “I deal with gem dealers I’ve worked with for four decades and pass on their reassurance of origin, instead of working with lab-grown diamonds.”
With a traditional goldsmith apprenticeship behind her, Tina describes herself as “old school,” working directly at the bench to shape every piece by hand. For those seeking something special at short notice, she offers a stunning selection of ready made pieces that can be bought from her cute store at the top of town, or personalised for even more festive charm. n
“Clients can bring ideas, sketches, photos, or even a story or emotion they want captured”
Carrying forward the legacy of her grandfather, renowned silversmith Graham Watling, Ariana Watling brings fresh creativity to Lacock’s long tradition of fine jewellery. Her pieces blend contemporary design with the timeless textures and craftsmanship that define the Watling name.
Explore Ariana’s ready-to-wear pieces, collaborate on a bespoke design, or enjoy a jewellery workshop in her charming studio behind the village church, right next to Godric’s Hollow - the house where Harry Potter was born.
Every piece tells a story of heritage and love.
Browse the collection: www.arianawatling.com
At AUSTENS, creating a truly unique piece of jewellery begins with transforming your ideas and inspirations into a beautiful, tangible design
Whether you arrive with a fully formed concept, a handful of reference images from a magazine, or simply an emotion you want the piece to capture, we start by exploring your vision together.
Through an initial consultation and often detailed CAD (computer-aided design) visuals, your ideas begin to take shape. These designs allow you to see how different elements—such as form, metal, and setting—work in harmony. Depending on the complexity of the piece, the journey from concept to completion typically takes four to six weeks, ensuring ample time for thoughtful design development, material selection, and expert craftsmanship.
Once your vision is clear, we guide you in choosing the most suitable metals and gemstones. For everyday wear, platinum and 18ct gold are favoured for their strength and longevity, while 9ct gold offers an elegant yet more accessible option. Gemstones are selected not only for their beauty but also for
their durability—sapphires and diamonds, for example, combine brilliance with resilience, making them ideal for heirloom-quality pieces. Every recommendation is made with your individual lifestyle and preferences in mind.
Austens is deeply committed to ethical and sustainable practices. All our materials are responsibly sourced, from conflict-free gemstones and recycled gold to increasingly popular lab-grown diamonds. These lab-grown alternatives deliver exceptional sparkle, outstanding value and a smaller environmental footprint—allowing you to wear your jewellery with confidence and peace of mind. When it comes to craftsmanship, Austens blends traditional artistry with cutting-edge technology. Many of our designs are realised using CAD modelling with 3D printing and wax-loss casting to achieve exceptional precision and detail. Each piece is then hand-finished by our skilled jewellery technicians, ensuring every creation bears the
distinctive character and refined touch that define our work.
And if time is short, perhaps you’ve left it too late to commission something special for Christmas, Austens also offers a curated selection of ready-to-wear designs that feel just as unique and personal. Each month, our own dedicated workshop produces hundreds of distinctive creations, whether that be an elegant tennis bracelet, an elaborate unique brooch or pendant or a more traditional engagement or eternity ring. A visit to our store reveals an inspiring array of pieces ready to be cherished.
Ultimately, commissioning a bespoke piece at Austens is more than a purchase—it’s a creative, collaborative journey. From the first spark of inspiration to the final polish, every step is guided by craftsmanship, care, and a shared passion for creating jewellery that is as meaningful as it is beautiful. n
To get in touch/find out more contact us: 2 Widcombe Parade, Bath, BA2 4JT; 01225 788611; www.austensjewellers.co.uk; sales@austensjewellers.co.uk
3 Pulteney Bridge, Bath, BA24AX @icarusjewellery Website: www.icarusjewellery.com Tel: 01225 463693 WhatsApp: 07376 416833 Opening Times: Monday-Friday 09:30am - 05:30pm, Saturday 09:30am - 6pm, Sunday 10am - 5pm
@christinaoswin An independent silver jewellery shop located in the heart of Bath, on Pulteney Bridge.
This festive season, NEUHAUS invites chocolate lovers to rediscover the magic of Christmas through three enchanting Advent Calendars and the Limited Edition Souvenirs Collection, celebrating the Maison’s rich Belgian heritage and artistry
INSPIRED BY NEUHAUS’ origins in the Galerie de la Reine in Brussels, each calendar transforms the Christmas countdown into a nostalgic journey through craftsmanship and joy. Behind every window lies not only an exquisite praline but also a glimpse into Neuhaus’ timeless story. The highlight is the Advent Calendar Book – Our Chocolate Story, a beautifully illustrated keepsake unfolding in four chapters that trace the Maison’s milestones — from Jean Neuhaus’ 1857 pharmacy to the creation of the first Belgian praline and the iconic ballotin. It includes 25 pralines, featuring an exclusive starshaped praline from the Limited Edition Souvenirs, filled with popcorn cream and salted caramel.
The Sharing Advent Calendar celebrates togetherness with 78 pralines and treats, each door hiding two chocolates behind a charming Brussels skyline, while the Classic Advent Calendar delights all ages with 25 Belgian pralines and playful winter figurines, echoing the joyful style of the Neuhaus Holiday House Box. Launching this autumn, the Limited Edition Souvenirs Collection captures the
warmth of childhood traditions with three starshaped pralines: Dark Chocolate Maple Syrup, Milk Chocolate Popcorn, and White Chocolate Gingerbread — each crafted to evoke cherished festive rituals.
Presented in a deep red, book-shaped box with copper details and a satin ribbon, the collection embodies warmth, generosity, and purpose. Each box supports the Make-A-Wish Foundation, helping children with life-threatening conditions experience unforgettable festive moments. n
Fir and Fraser Fir Mistletoe, Holly, Wreaths, Logs
see website for details
Clay, company and creativity — in a light-filled studio in Shepton Mallet.
Join our welcoming ceramics space for:
• Wheel & handbuilding workshops
• Courses for beginners & improvers
• Private sessions & group bookings
Three generations. One vision. Sublime Indulgence. Exceptional Quality. Ethically Sourced. Always Sustainable. Available in Almond, Oatmeal, Dove and Slate
www.slumberluxe.co.uk
It’s back, and for those of you being all humbug and making the same old cynical jokes about wooden ties and moaning into your definitely not mulled wine about the busy crowds time to stop it now. The Bath Christmas Market, in its 25th year, is becoming as much part of our celebrated tapestry and tradition as the oman Baths and the Royal Crescent.
Founded in 2001, it began as a collection of local businesses and artisans who all came together to welcome in the festi e period, and has evolved into one of the UK’s most beloved festive events. And a profitable one at that for the city, with an estimated , isitors creating a £ . million turno er for businesses, supporting more than jobs and a £ .9million associated spend in the city.
his year it is running from 7 No ember to ecember and will be featuring more than businesses, per cent of which are from Bath and surrounding areas (flip o erleaf for just a few of them). his is shopping with bells on, so go with the flow and enjoy the festive market forces!
For more: www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk
PASTEL MEADOW WREATH, £45
Say with flowers, and say it forever. This striking dried flower arrangement on a sturdy bamboo base and 23cm in diameter, is made by Bath-based Hazel, the creative spirit behind Rustica Haze, who transforms nature’s beauty into timeless adornments.
From Rustica Haze, Green Street, 28 – 30 November; www.rusticahaze.com
Make this year’s Bath Christmas Market your one stop festive shop with many of the gorgeous gift options coming from local makers and artisans
ROBIN MINIMAL ART PRINT, FROM £5
Hello you rockin' robin! From the Bath designer, artist and Lego fan Damien Sawyer. This, and his other creatures, are supplied as prints with the option of three sizes, as well as being personalised before framing.
From FLAB Design, Bath Street, 27 November – 14 December; www fla desi n om
TEACUP AND SAUCER SET, £26
Just our cup of tea! Gorgeous vintage teacup and saucer set, hand painted with the word 'Gin' crafted by local makers Beau & Badger. From Beau & Badger, Bath Street, 27 November –14 December; Instagram @beauandbadger
CHOCOLATE COVERED SICILIAN ORANGE ZEST, £6
Forget Terry’s! The Radstock-based Medjool date specialists have launched a brand new handcrafted delicious – candied orange hand dipped in tempered Belgian dark chocolate. From Rutab Dates, Abbeygate Street, 27 November –14 December; www.rutab.co.uk
TRIO OF LAVENDER BAGS IN LIBERTY FABRIC, £16
Heaven scent, and locally gathered. The lavender from the farm near Radstock is handsewn into these Liberty print sachets. Ideal as a natural moth repellent and as a sleep aid.
From Somerset Lavender, Abbey Green , 27 November – 14 December; www.somersetlavender.com
LARGE PERSONALISED STOCKINGS, £17.50
Sock it to us! Handmade stocking with patterned front and plain/ corduroy back finished with a white sherpa fleece top made by the Exeter-based family business. Ideal for filling with little gifts picked up from the rest of the market.
From Rose and Green, Bath Street, 27 November – 14 December; www.roseandgreen.co.uk
FOLDING TOTE BAG, £15
LANSDOWN ROAD PRINT, FROM £30
Let the good times roll with this super useful foldable tote bag with overlocked seams for extra strength and a popper fastening handmade by sewing tutor Cerys in her garden studio in Weston.
From Cerys Jane Designs, Green Street 5 – 7 December; www.cerysjanedesigns.com
Home is where the heart is with this hand drawn print using archival, gallery-quality paper and inks (giclée prints), then signed, titled and numbered by hand brother and sister team Rich and Becky Walsh.
From Firewater Gallery, Orange Grove, 27 November – 14 December; www rewater a er om
ZODIAC BOOKSHELF BOOKMARK, £2.49
This one is written in the stars. The perfect gift for astrologyloving bookworms. Each one is hand-painted, printed onto high quality card, and comes signed by the Bath-based writer and artist Abbie of Britishbookart.
From britishbookart, Bath Street, 27 November – 3 December; Instagram @ britishbookreader
TURQUOISE AND COPPER RAKU LAMPBASE WITH COPPER LAMPSHADE, £165
Let there be light! Created by Kate Marshall who specialises in original handcrafted ceramics from her pottery studio close to Alexandra Park.
From Kate Marshall Ceramics, Bath Street, 4 – 14 December; www.katemarshallceramics.co.uk
Bath Christmas Market is running 27 November – 14 December; www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk
Give the gift of tranquility at the Soul Spa this Christmas with our unique relaxation experience vouchers. Whether it's a soothing Guided Relaxation and Sound Bath or an awe-inspiring Dream Odyssey VR Meditation experience, a visit to the Soul Spa offers the perfect escape. Treat your loved ones to moments of calm and renewal that they can cherish long after the festivities are over. This holiday season, spread joy and relaxation – because everyone deserves a little pampering!
Vouchers are available for specific sessions or can be bought in cash amounts that can be spent on Soul Spa experiences. Please note, they are not redeemable for therapists that work at the Soul Spa. Visit www.thesoulspa.co.uk/vouchers or contact us at hello@thesoulspa.co.uk.
Paint by Wine sets the standard for paint and sip workshops. A cosy studio in central Bath that caters to groups of 2- 12 painters. We paint on large canvases with premium acrylics. There is a large selection of paintings, and animated, supportive instructors. It’s a safe space to find your creative side, and enjoy a lovely glass or two along the way. Holiday parties, birthdays or just because. Open sessions every month, private sessions by appointment 7 days a week. Vouchers available for either a single painter or a private workshop for 2. All workshops take place at 34 Green Park Mews, Bath, BA1 1JD, for more: sarah@studiolx.co.uk, or www.paintbywine.com
Vale House Kitchen is an award winning bespoke country skills and cookery school situated in the village of Timsbury eight miles south west of Bath. Come and experience all the traditional courses you would expect from a cookery school but also learn skills such as fishing, shooting, foraging and butchery. We like to focus on the seasons and have a real field to fork ethos that runs through our courses. These are taught by some of the very best of the South West’s culinary professionals. To find out more scan the code, visit www.valehousekitchen.co.uk or call 01761 470401
Manipura House takes massage therapy to the next level, elevating massage out of the ‘guilty treat’ and onto the main stage of recovery and wellbeing, whether that’s from your gym session, chronic pain, post operative rehabilitation, or to maintaining a healthy body and mind. Our experts move beyond a reactive approach to healthcare to a more sustainable and holistic one.
Gift Vouchers for massage are available online and in-store, a perfect gift for the Christmas Season. Choose from clinical and sports massage, pregnancy massage, lymphatic drainage, deep tissue massage, reflexology and more. Our focus is on restoring, protecting and maintaining your health. Call 01225 984379 or book online at www.manipurahouse.com 11 Queen Street, Bath, BA1 1HE
Perched just above Bath’s twinkling skyline, The Bird is the city’s most dazzling festive hideaway - the place to see, be seen, and celebrate this winter. Step inside and discover a whirlwind of sparkle, style, and vibrant energy, where every corner shimmers with festive magic and a touch of mischief. This season, The Bird’s cosy pockets of luxury are back and brighter than ever.
Outside, three glittering Festive Igloos await - two intimate spaces for up to eight guests and one show-stopping dome for up to fourteen. Each is a private winter wonderland beneath the Bath stars, perfect for laughter-filled evenings, clinking glasses, and unforgettable moments. Bookings are now open for festive igloos, dining, and festive party nights - experience Bath’s most magical Christmas celebration at The Bird. www.thebirdbath.co.uk/christmas-new-year/
As Bath drifts into winter light, there’s beauty in slowing down, in tending to what’s quietly changing beneath the surface.
Dr Dana Beiki exclusively blends medical precision with a deep understanding of natural restoration. A philosophy that honours the body’s innate intelligence to rejuvenate from within. No fillers, no imitation, no excess! This winter, rediscover the quiet luxury of feeling wholly yourself.
Baudelaire Aesthetics The art of science. The science of beauty. www.baudelaireclinic.com | 01225688088 support@baudelaireclinics.co.uk
For the guitar lover in your life! From a 1 day setup course to a 7 day guitar building course, professional luthier Josh Stopford will provide expert guidance to students of all ages and abilities from his beautiful workshop near Evercreech. WVG founder Josh Stopford has built guitars for The Vaccines, IDLES and Noah and the Whale guitarist, Matt Owens. He looks after guitars for Super Grass, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Massive Attack, The Stranglers IDLES and many more. Featured in Guitarist Magazine and on the BBC homepage, you can be sure that students are in professional hands.
To enquire or book a course please call Josh on 07923 546 957 or email info@westvalleyguitars.co.uk
Looking for a fun and unique cooking experience? Join us for an afternoon of pasta making at the Pasta Laboratory in Bath. Come to the Richmond Arms, enjoy a drink, immerse yourself in the kitchen studio, and let Federico guide you through crafting Tagliatelle, Tagliolini, and filled Tortelli. In just 2.5 hours, you’ll create and savor your own pasta with delicious sauces. No prior cooking experience is needed—this relaxed class makes everyone feel confident. A glass of prosecco on arrival helps set the mood. Visit www.pastalaboratory.co.uk to purchase Xmas gift vouchers starting form £75 pp. See you soon, Federico and the team.
AN ACE IDEA
The young student raising money for Bath Mind
ALISTAIR DARBY, CEO OF SUTTON HOTELS, ON THE PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE OF BATH’S FRANCIS HOTEL
CLUB LIFE
Kalvin Simmons on running one of Bath’s most successful bars
BRAND NEW Luxe clotheswear store Pockets arrives in the city
BATH LIFE AWARDS
Bespoke Family on that winning feeling
Everyone’s got an opinion on the Francis Hotel: with its enviable location – occupying a row of town houses on Queen Square’s south side – and storied history, how could they not?
But, truth be told, the Francis hasn’t always lived up to its location. Enter proud family company Sir Richard Sutton Limited, and specifically its C , listair arby, who’s responsible for the Sutton otel Collection of which the Francis now comprises a third. In recent years the hotel had been run by an outfit called ccor, but since 2022 has been under direct Sutton management. “Now we employ e eryone oursel es, listair says, “which was the beginning of our refurbishment story.”
nd quite an epic it’s been as the those attending the recent Bath Life Network unch found out. listair joined the company in ctober 2023, with a £7m Francis rework already approved. But the second time he visited was a freezing cold day in January, when he found the inside even colder than the outside, and the poor receptionist standing awkwardly behind her desk, jiggling around. said re you all right , he remembers, nd she said ’m standing over a heater; it’s the only way I can stay warm.”
How had things got to this? It turned out the boiler would break on the regular, as would the electricity, the air conditioning, you name it. “I came away realising that £7m wasn’t going to change this hotel, not in a million years –it would cost £ m just to fi the basics. But when you’re a new C you do get a brief chance to be an absolute idiot and kitchen sink everything – so I went back to the board and I said, I’m taking the £7m refurbishment off the table. We’re going to spend £14m instead. nd in ne t to no time we were up and running. With big calls like this, you’ve got to focus on the simple truth of what needs to be done.”
It was the only solution, though the pace at which they were suddenly moving created its own problems. Chief amongst these
“IF
THE FRANCIS RESTS ON JUST BEING A HOTEL, IT WILL FAIL”
• The Francis Hotel is built on seven of the nine town houses that were constructed between 1728 and 1736.
• One of those was the home of celebrated architect John Wood the Elder, who also happened to design the building.
• The separate homes later became a hotel in 1884 when entrepreneur Emily Francis extended it across seven
adjoining houses that now make up the Francis Hotel.
• This November the results of the £14 million redesign are being unveiled
• All 98 bedrooms, corridors, and public spaces fully refurbished by award-winning 3DReid, known for its work on Gleneagles Townhouse and Cameron House.
• Guest rooms feature Hypnos beds, rainfall showers, GAIA toiletries, smart TVs, Nespresso machines, and bespoke furnishings.
• Materials, textiles, and curated artwork by Artiq will reflect the stories of past occupants in the original townhouses.
• Emberwood, the hotel’s bold British brasserie, opened earlier this year under the leadership of Executive Head Chef David Hazell.
• Opening in 2026 is a tranquil garden and spa retreat with treatments.
when you’re tackling a 98-bedroom grade one listed building in a UNESCO city, it generally makes sense to undertake some in estigatory work first, to figure out how much it’s going to cost.
“We hadn’t done that,” Alistair says. “We just thought, yeah, we’ll put in a contingency, we’ll be fine. And we started the refurbishment at the most modern end of the hotel, down Barton Street. That’s a year old e tension but, of course, it was full of asbestos. As we worked our way around the hotel the buildings got older, and the situation became progressi ely worse. When we started to redo the lounge, we couldn’t work out why the floor had a bow in it but it was because, under the carpet, it wasn’t actually secured to anything. One of the gable ends could ha e fallen off as well, because the roof had been built on top of an unsecured floating beam.
The ultimate aim is that the Francis will once again become an important part of the Bath landscape. “We’re here to do a great job for our guests – and, on top of that, we’re proud custodians of a building that’s close to 300 years old. We can’t think short term.”
One critical change had to be to the food offering. t could no
longer just be a hotel restaurant – it had to be a Bath restaurant that happens to be in a hotel.” Thus the new incarnation, Emberwood, is designed to hold its head high amongst the well-known stars of the city’s independent sector. “First and foremost, it has to appeal to the people of Bath. And if it does, that’s great for guests too, because it will be busy and buzzy. We think: Bath residents first, guests ne t, tourists after that. If the Francis rests on just being a hotel, it will fail. Bath is effecti ely a ery big illage, and has to find its place in the hearts of the people who li e here.
Quite a risky, ambitious undertaking…
n hospitality, you’ e got to hold your ner e. ou ha e to build a reputation, and you’re only as good as your last meal. So far we’re pleased, though there’s more to go. We’re not doing afternoon tea yet. We are just starting Sunday lunch. And also, don’t forget, there’s still a third of our hotel being refurbished, and the spa’s not finished either. t this stage, we’re happy. But do we want more? Of course.”
Where is the new Francis pitched t’s not fi e star, and ne er will be – “it lacks the facilities that would require” – but is instead a really accessible lu ury hotel, the interior design by 3DReid referencing but not aping classic Georgian style. “That means, crucially, ama ing people. ou will ha e noticed, for e ample, that we’ e got doormen. nd don’t mean in terms of crowd control, but friendly people whose job is to welcome you into the hotel. That’s to create connections, e en with people just walking around outside – in fact, I’m thrilled when I see our team talking to local residents, directing tourists, bringing life to the Square.”
Finally, what about the lady standing awkwardly o er her heater. Is she still there? es, but in a more senior role. nd she’s definitely warmer now!”
For more: www.francishotel.com| www.mediaclash.co.uk
Photos by Narrated Frames; www.narratedframes.com
A young Bath student has come up with a smashing idea to raise money for Bath Mind. Jax, aged 14 and a passionate tennis player, decided to create a t-shirt called The Double Fault Club.
Jax explains, “For a few years, I have struggled with the stress, pressure, and nerves that come before matches. Facing those fears during tournaments has been one of the biggest challenges in my tennis journey. Every match – win or lose – has taught me something valuable about resilience, self-belief, and what it means to keep going when it’s tough.
“I’ve created the Double Fault Club t-shirts to share that message. These t-shirts aren’t just about tennis – they’re a reminder that setbacks don’t define us. ith courage and hard work, we can turn our setbacks into comebacks. Because mistakes don’t make us weaker – they make us stronger.”
Jax, a student of Kingswood school, used his own pocket money to buy a domain and built the e commerce website ennis ith a . is goal is to make his first donation in ecember this year before Christmas, and a final one in une when the project ends.
For more: www.tenniswithjax.com
Independent fashion retailer Pockets has just opened its fifth boutique and first in the South –on Brock Street.
Named Pockets Townhouse, the store specialises in luxury men’s and women’s wear, including Moncler, Ralph Lauren, Dries Van Noten, Barena, Stone Island, Max Mara, Paul Smith, Acnes Studios, and Ralph Lauren.
Paul Platt, who founded the company in Shrewsbury years ago, says,
“Bath has the kind of character and independent spirit that we really alue. ockets will fit right in. ur approach has always been simple: sell exceptional
products with exceptional service in an exceptional space, which people want to come back to.
“There’s still something to be said about the power of physical space. Creating an environment where people can feel the fabrics, speak to experts, and experience truly great service.
hen done right, physical retail still offers something the internet can’t, and I want to inspire a new generation of people to see that.”
For more: www.pockets.co.uk
ongleat has been recognised as among the top per cent of things to do around the world on ripad isor. he iltshire estate, which will be marking years as the first Safari ark outside of frica in , has been recognised in the platform’s ra ellers’ Choice wards for . Scott shman, head of operations, says, nitiati es introduced in have been informed by reviews and post-visit comments, from bringing back the popular bat cave to the reintroduction of hippos.
“Plus we are committed to being as inclusive as possible and our additions to improve accessibility with the introduction of sensory bags and signs have also been well-received.”
For more: www.longleat.co.uk
techUK President Sheila Flavell CBE has received an honorary doctorate at the UNIVERSITY OF BATH in recognition of her lasting impact on the digital industry and her leadership in diversity and inclusion. In 2020 she received a CBE for services to gender equality in technology and employment. www.bath.ac.uk
Lt Col Neill Barrett, who has served DOWNSIDE SCHOOL’S Combined Cadet Force since joining in 1991, and Chief Petty Officer (CPO) David Pollard, who has served as SSI at Downside School CCF since 2012, were both recently awarded The Lord Lieutenant of Somerset’s Certificate for Meritorious Service. www.downside.co.uk
GOUGHS SOLICITORS has once again been recognised in the Chambers and Partners Global 2026 rankings, earning multiple Band 3 ratings for family law, real estate, and leading individual lawyers in these key practice areas. Thomas Boyce, partner and head of the family team, says, “Independent recognition from clients and researchers reinforces the quality, consistency, and commercial strength of our advice. To be ranked once again and to receive such positive feedback is incredibly rewarding. www.goughs.co.uk
It’s a pretty roar-some result for
William Riordan is the next Bath Life Network Lunch guest
here’s an e citing Bath Life Network unch coming up on No ember at the special guest enue of mberwood, with William Riordan, managing partner and co founder of berland. e will be sharing the e clusi e inside story of the major recent rede elopment of Shires ard (formerly, ilsom lace).
illiam, who pre iously held senior roles at alue etail and S. . alkin roperties, will be talking about the creation of an independent retail, food and drink, wellness, and lifestyle hub in a 7 , sq ft heritage rich setting.
For more: www.mediaclash.co.uk
The family consultancy business, headed by directors Rebekah Frankcom and Claire Burgess, offers parent consultation packages, webinars, a podcast and blogs, all aimed at helping families to thri e. ere they re eal why they entered for the ery first time and the positi e impact winning has had on the company.
e ha e always looked on at the wards from the sidelines and thought how great it would be to win and be recognised oursel es for what we do, so decided to take the plunge and enter.
he process was a really cathartic process and made us realise how much we do and the impact it has for children and families, from all o er the world. e hadn’t done so before in such detail – the questions were structured in a way that really helped facilitate this.
“Winning the Bath Life ward is a real boost for us and pro ides us with public recognition for something we ha e been doing for se en years. t’s great to be gi en the opportunity to shout from the rooftops what we can do for families. For more: www.bespokefamily.co.uk
“ENHANCED CLIENT SATISFACTION, AND SUPPORTED FAMILIES THROUGH PERSONALISED, EXPERT GUIDANCE”
OUR JUDGES SAY
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The Bath Life Awards return on 12 March 2026 at Bath Forum. It is free to enter with the nominations hub now open, Categories include Arts & Creative, Bar & Pub, Business Services, Charity, Civic & Community, Education, Employer, Event, Hair & Beauty, Health & Wellbeing, Homes & Interiors, Legal & Financial, Legends, Leisure & Tourism, New Business, People Services, Property, Restaurant, Retailer, Small Business, Sustainability and Technology. For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk
he ni ersity of Bath generated more than half a billion pounds for the local economy in Bath North East Somerset during the 2023/24 academic year, according to a recent report by ford conomics. he study found that uni ersity acti ities and student spending supported o er 7, jobs across the region, particularly in the retail, accommodation, transport and leisure sectors.
ore than , students li ing in the area spent an estimated £ million, a eraging £ , each, with international students accounting for just o er a quarter of that total and supporting around local jobs.
Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Phil Taylor says, his report highlights the significant economic and social alue the ni ersity deli ers, working in partnership with our city and region, by supporting jobs, attracting in estment and generating wider opportunities. e added that initiati es such as the Brunel Centre and the o ernment’s lobal alent und award demonstrate the ni ersity’s ongoing regional impact.
For more: www.bath.ac.uk
Students are boosting the local economy
MONICA VINADER, the awardwinning British luxury jewellery brand known for its modern, everyday designs that are both beautiful and accessible, is delighted to invite you to host a private “Sip & Shop” event at our Bath boutique
This exclusive experience allows your business to book out the boutique for 1-2 hours and enjoy a complimentary glass of Nyetimber while our team offers a personalised one-to-one shopping experience, whether advising on gifting or helping you style new pieces. Your guests will also enjoy 25% off their purchases and receive a complimentary gift when attending the event. n
We’d love to host your next gathering. To book, please contact us at the store: Bath@monicavinader.com 01225595783
Unique social business occasion + live interview: Shires Yard redevelopment, William Riordan JOIN US Tuesday 25 November from 12pm
Sponsored by:
He’s been a mobile DJ, a land surveyor, an architectural technician, managed a restaurant, done bar work, and worked in sales, management and recruitment – but this Jack of lots of trades, Kalvin Simmons, is now the master of Mandalyns – Bath’s first e er gay bar. e is also the co-owner of The Village Café in Larkhall, which opened early this year. ere we disco er more about the many career paths of the Bath boy whose love of music was the deciding factor when it came to buying Mandalyns in 9.
What did you do after leaving school?
studied for my N in Building Science at Bath College. I then worked for my father’s architectural practice, Simmons Building Design, and later at aron ans rchitects first as a land surveyor and then as an architectural technician. was actually one of the first people in the country to use CAD design!
Did you enjoy the world of architecture and building?
I did very much so, but I also had a real passion for music. school friend and I set up a mobile disco business, Rhythmic Pastimes,
which ran for several years with two mobile units and two residencies. lo ed it but knew it wasn’t my long term path.
What other paths did you explore?
I took a bar course, and completed a placement at the Theatre Royal Vaults Restaurant, which I ended up managing for si years. also worked on the management side with BT, and ha e had my own lettings agency. At its peak, we managed around properties. ’ e since sold the agency to allow more time to focus on other entures.
Tell us a little about the history of Mandalyns It was originally founded around 2001 by a couple, Manda and yn hence the name.
And when and how did owning it come into play? When Mandalyns came up for sale in 2009 just as voluntary redundancy was offered at B who were becoming . y motivation and inspiration was my passion for music and a growing interest in the hospitality industry.
What were those early days of taking over like? here was definitely a
challenging crossover period when I was juggling my job at and setting up andalyns. I gave the bar a major refurbishment with the new bar, air conditioning, banquet seating, full redecoration, all on a tight budget. e had to do much of the work while still trading, which was tough at times. But we got there through sheer hard work and determination!
Do you wish you’d done similar before 2009?
Life has a funny way of leading you down une pected paths. certainly didn’t picture myself owning a bar when I was studying building science, but every job I’ve had has taught me something that’s helped me get here.
What are the highs you’ve experienced during your time at Mandalyns?
he highs ha e definitely been being my own boss, and the people ha e met along the way. I’m also so proud, every time, of our monthly drag e ents. he atmosphere is electric, and we’ve had truly spectacular line-ups this year. e’re especially e cited about one of the most famous queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK joining us in anuary ( BC ).
Our Drag Karaoke Thursdays with Phillupa Bucket are a big hit and draw a lively crowd, as does Karaoke with Tony Cicirello every riday and Saturday.
And the lows?
he rising costs of e erything. Balancing the books while still offering customers great alue for money has been a challenge.
What changes have you seen over the years?
Gay bars used to be exclusive spaces where people could feel safe and be themselves without fear of judgment, which was definitely needed. hankfully, we’ve all moved on, and the idea of turning someone away because they ‘looked straight’ seems absurd now, as is hopefully turning people away because they look gay (although we all know there is still progress to be made here). But it’s been wonderful to be a part of Mandalyns evolution and welcome everyone, regardless of se uality. ach and e ery
“EVERY JOB I’VE HAD HAS TAUGHT ME SOMETHING THAT’S HELPED ME GET HERE”
night, it’s brilliant to see such a diverse mix of people enjoying themsel es. ’m so proud that Mandalyns is a welcoming, inclusive, respectful, and – very importantly – a fun space to be!
Tell us about your team… Because of the late hours, we’re all a bit nocturnal. he team are all hardworking, fun-loving, and fantastic with customers. They know how to keep the atmosphere lively while ensuring everyone feels welcome, included, and safe. n this line of work, your team, as well as your customers, are e erything.
What might surprise us about Mandalyns?
ur outstanding floral displays
We’ve won several awards from Bath in Bloom. his year, we were awarded Gold in the Pub with Floral Display category, which was a lo ely recognition.
Time over, anything you might approach differently? Looking back, I’d probably have been a bit kinder to myself in those early years. hen you’re setting up a business, you want everything to be perfect straight away, but it’s a learning cur e. ’d take more time to breathe and trust that things fall into place with hard work and patience.
Finally, tell us a little about your other venture yself and olly Bower, who’ e been friends over 30 years ago, are now co-owners of The illage Caf in arkhall. t has been open for nearly a year and is already a great success – we’ve even been featured in Condé Nast, and Bath Life!
For more: Instagram @mandalynsbath | www.thevillagelarkhall.co.uk
At AWDRY LAW, we specialise in providing tailored legal solutions for individuals and businesses across the South West. We’re excited to be expanding our presence with a new office opening soon in Bath...
Find us at: 3 Northumberland Buildings, Wood Street, Bath; or visit www.awdry.law
WALSHE
What sets the firm apart?
Our culture defines us. We maintain a family feel where every individual matters, prioritising welfare and work-life balance. This ethos extends to clients, ensuring care alongside technical excellence. Our open, friendly approach supports staff and local communities, creating strong relationships. Clients benefit from high-quality advice delivered with genuine attention, making us distinctive in a competitive market.
What have been the highlights of the last 12 months?
The Bath project stands out. With opening just weeks away, we are thrilled to bring Awdry Law to one of the country’s most vibrant cities. This expansion reflects our commitment to growth while staying true to our values. We look forward to welcoming new clients and building lasting connections.
How has working as a solicitor changed over the last couple of years?
The biggest shift has been the rise of artificial intelligence. Solicitors must adopt AI to stay competitive. For Awdry Law clients, this means efficiency without losing the human touch. AI can handle routine tasks, reducing costs, while expert lawyers oversee every matter, adding insight and value. This balance ensures clients receive both innovation and personal service.
LAUREN SCOTT ASSOCIATE | SOLICITOR | CONVEYANCING TEAM LEADER
What’s your favourite part of the job?
Helping clients buy their dream homes at every stage of life – from first-time buyers taking their first step on the property ladder, to growing families moving on, and those searching for their forever home. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of such life-changing moments and to help make my clients’ dreams a reality!
What sets you apart from others in your sector?
My approach is always proactive. This can sometimes be challenging in the property sector. I focus on getting information to my clients quickly and communicating regularly.
What do you specialise in?
Private Client Law; predominantly advising on Wills and Estate Planning, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Estate Administration.
What is your favourite part of the job?
I am often fortunate to get to know clients and their families over many years, allowing me to build meaningful relationships where my advice can genuinely add value to their lives.
What advice would you give to anyone considering law as a career?
Law can be an interesting and rewarding career but it’s not for everyone. I found that studying Law (particularly at undergraduate level) is very different to being in practice, so the best advice I could give would be to get as much work experience as possible early on as that will really help with making an informed decision about whether it might be right for you.
How have the last 12 months been?
The last year has been both rewarding and formative. Since qualifying as a solicitor a year and a half ago, I’ve benefitted from the excellent support of Awdry Law. Finding the right sector is crucial for a career in law and gaining experience in various departments helped me find my niche in contentious probate. Management genuinely values input from less experienced staff, and I’ve appreciated the trust and responsibility given to me early in my career.
What is the biggest mistake you see your clients making?
What does success mean to you now, compared to earlier in your career? When I began my legal career, success seemed defined by salary and title. Over time, I’ve learned that true success is finding a workplace where you feel happy, supported, and valued, with a healthy work-life balance that allows you to thrive personally and professionally.
What’s been a defining moment in your professional journey so far?
Two moments stand out. First, qualifying as a solicitor, after four years of studying and a two-year training contract, finally being able to call myself a solicitor is a feeling I will never forget. Second, launching our firm’s Sustainable Development Group, championing the UN’s goals to transfer our world and create meaningful, positive change.
What makes working in
Aside from its beauty, Bath manages to capture both the vibrant energy of community, with space for independent supported
The most common mistake is not seeking legal advice for significant personal or financial decisions. Matters that appear straightforward can cause unexpected issues further down the line. Early legal guidance protects clients’ interests and helps avoid problems before they arise. Clarity and
Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement. We have established the Sustainable Development Group, focusing on five key goals, which allows us to connect with our local communities. We are adapting our work practices, supporting local charities, and fundraising for aligned causes.
We aim to collaborate with like-minded local businesses and share regular updates on our website and social media.
On the market
Grade II farmhouse and holiday cottages near Frome are up for sale
Specialist property adviser Christie & Co has brought Riverside Cottage Holidays, a self-catering holiday business near Frome, Somerset, to market with an asking price of £2.5 million.
Set within 15 acres near the village of Oldford, the property, which encompasses an old Roman ‘ford’ crossing the river with some of the original stonework still visible, features seven stone-built cottages and an agricultural barn offering scope for further de elopment, as well as the main farmhouse. The Grade II listed 17th-century farmhouse, with seven bedrooms and period features including an original bread oven, has been a family home but previously operated as a holiday let.
Owners Stephen and Maria are selling as they move towards retirement. Stephen said, his was the ery definition of a lifestyle property… we’ve enjoyed every moment, but now it’s time for a new owner to continue refining the business and e ploring its many development opportunities.”
Christie & Co’s Sam Roberts and Gabriela Williams, who are managing the sale, say, ith pri ate grounds, fishing rights, and strong repeat trade, the business offers both lifestyle appeal and e cellent growth potential.”
For more: www.christie.com
Two local interior design brands have announced a new beautiful collaboration. The Wiltshire-based Ca’ Pietra Studio, who specialise in small batch collections created by in-house artists, has crafted a capsule collection of 12 glossy ceramic wall tiles inspired by two of the wallpaper designs from the Bath-based Divine Savages.
Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages, says, “We have always loved the alchemy that happens when heritage motifs meet modern making. Partnering with Ca’ Pietra meant our archive prints, Brambles and Lovebirds, could find a new oice in tile, characterful, practical and ready for everyday spaces.”
Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra, adds, “Divine Savages is a brand we’ve long admired for their fearless use of pattern and their ability to tell stories through design. There’s a shared love of heritage and craftsmanship that made this collaboration feel instinctive from the very beginning.”
For more: www.divinesavages.com | www.capietra.com
Woolley Grange, the Jacobean manor on the edge of Bradfordon-Avon near Bath which is part of the Luxury Family Hotels portfolio, has reopened its doors after a four-month refurbishment. The full-property renovation encompassed all 25 rooms and suites as well as the public areas, including the restaurant, drawing room, long room, afternoon tea lounge, private dining, the orangery, the family-friendly spa, indoor swimming pool and the children’s facilities.
The design was carried out by StudioJill, who have worked with
the collection across owey all on the Cornish Coast, oonfleet Manor on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset and New Park Manor in the heart of the New Forest. Founder Jill Higgins says, “As a design studio we wanted to create a stronger sense of place, celebrating the inherent charm and natural patina of the building whilst layering in modern crafted pieces, pattern and te ture. ur approach unifies the old with new to create a more holistic guest experience mixing playful details with a relaxed understated sense of luxury.”
For more: www.luxuryfamilyhotels.co.uk | www.studiojill.co.uk
ARCHITECT
Mitchell Eley Gould Architects
CIVIC & COMMUNITY
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CONSULTANCY
Sponsored by APS Homes
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Sponsored by Alide Hire Services
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Sponsored by BLB Solicitors APS Homes
EMPLOYER
Sponsored by Marsh Commercial BLB Solicitors
INTERIOR DESIGNER
Sponsored by Elements Studio, a sister company of Wraxall Builders
The Curator’s House
WINNER OF WINNERS SPONSOR
KITCHENS
Sponsored by Floresco
Kelly Marie Kitchens
LEGAL & FINANCIAL
BLB Solicitors
ONE TO WATCH
Sponsored by EntreConf Camella Estate Agents
OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUAL
Sponsored by Marsh Commercial
Mark Saint, MEA Construction Consultants & Victoria Cranwell, BLB Solicitors (Joint winners)
PARTNERSHIPS
Sponsored by Tile & Floor
Mitchell Eley Gould Architects & Partners
PROPERTY AGENT
Sponsored by Mogers Drewett Clean Break Properties
PROPERTY LEGEND
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PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Aspire To Move
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Emerald Rymer, Aspire To Move
SUPPLIERS AND SERVICES
Bath Granite & Marble
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Bath Garden Design
TRANSFORMATION
Sponsored by Creative Bath
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he e ceptional and rare rts and Crafts masterpiece, otney ouse, comes to market
By Elsie Chadwick
The first glimpse of otney ouse, an e ceptional rts and Crafts masterpiece located in the hamlet of ingsdown found just between Corsham and Bath, is its magnificent e terior iew re ealing a storybook charm. he classic thatched roof crests the crisp, white fa ade, a hallmark of timeless country design. legant multi paned windows illuminate the generous interior spaces, while the grounds cascade gently down a series of manicured terraces and sweeping, south facing lawns. nside, the four bedroom detached home, which was built in 9 , unfolds o er four ersatile floors, each space imbued with character and meticulous craftsmanship. he principal rooms on the ground floor offer a gracious welcome, featuring solid wood flooring, bespoke handcrafted fittings, and the warmth of wood burning sto es set within grand ork inster fireplaces.
he li ing spaces are designed for both grand entertaining and intimate family life. escending an elegant oak spiral staircase, we disco er the lower ground floor, which is a hub of creati ity and connection. his ersatile le el, with direct access to the gardens, includes a practical utility summer kitchen and a spacious study office. his study area, with its beautiful parquet flooring and rich, ruby red curtains framing the windows, pro ides a perfect workspace adjacent to the e quisite mdega conser atory with glass walls that jut out into the garden, promising sun drenched moments and year round enjoyment of the setting. ere, amidst floor to ceiling glass, you can host dinner parties while soaking in the unspoilt, rolling countryside iews a seamless blend of indoor elegance and outdoor beauty. scending to the first floor, a wide oak staircase leads to the restful sleeping quarters. he principal bedroom enjoys fabulous iews and a pri ate en suite. he unique character of the upper floors is perfectly encapsulated in the charming bedrooms. ere, the e posed, rich wooden structural beams of the roof, painted white, contrast beautifully with the pristine white walls, celebrating the rts and Crafts tradition. ight hued doors lead to fitted wardrobes and an adjacent en suite, while the room is filled with natural light, creating a serene and pri ate retreat. nother dual aspect bedroom on this floor boasts a delightful me anine gallery a quirky, fun space ideal for storage or as a children’s play area. Beyond
“A seamless blend of indoor elegance and outdoor beauty”
this, a secluded teenager’s wing’ offers a self contained haven with a study/games area and a dedicated double bedroom above.
The property, which is approached via a private, sweeping dri eway, ensures pri acy and offering ample parking alongside a double garage with a carport.
Practicality extends to a large secondary carport, perfect for storing a caravan or boat. Above the garage, a fully insulated room awaits – an ideal space for an art studio, games room, or a pri ate home office, with scope for an annexe conversion, subject to planning. Additional outbuildings, including a workshop and greenhouse, complete the external facilities.
The Arts and Crafts movement was an international trend that emerged in Britain around 1880-1920, flourishing as a direct response to the Industrial Revolution and the perceived social and aesthetic decay it caused. The philosophy advocated for a return to traditional craftsmanship and the production of beautifully designed, useful, and honest objects. In architecture, the style values handmade details and natural materials such as wood, stone, and brick. These homes often feature low-pitched roofs, wide eaves, exposed rafters, and built-in furniture. Interiors showcase a beauty in function with open floor plans, cosy fireplaces, and abundant natural light.
Guide price £1.4million
Bedrooms 4
Bathrooms 3
Reception rooms 5
Grounds 0.83 acres
For more: Knight Frank Bath, 4 Wood Street, Bath; www.knightfrank.co.uk
The spectacular south-facing gardens are undoubtedly a highlight. Mature and lovingly maintained, they feature gently sloping lawns interspersed with well stocked flower beds, mature shrubs, and magnificent trees. he thoughtful placement of terraces, including the superb stone patio leading up to the thatched house ensures there is always a perfect spot to pause and appreciate the unparalleled views that sweep across the valley.
Having been owned by only three families, Totney ouse remains a rare find, preser ing its character while offering an e quisite can as for modern family life. It is more than a residence; it’s a piece of English heritage, a sophisticated country escape, and an idyllic family home ready for its next custodians.
Imagine challenging Rightmove. Imagine being funded by Google to create a new way of property selling, harnessing AI. And imagine that business is founded and is based in Bath
Imagine no more. That is the outline of Jitty: bold, innovative and scaling fast. And in such a sweet spot.
Its co-founder is Graham Paterson. “We see a new opportunity for agents and owners to use our AI-based system for more in-depth, bespoke property buying and selling,” he begins. “Traditionally people think in terms of say, ‘period property, four beds, detached’ etc. But how about much greater customisation – all the room requirements and then “a period property with off-road parking, a proper large garden. I want both upstairs and downstairs bathroom, within 90 minutes door-to-door from Paddington, with stunning views. And I don’t want a doer-upper’.
“Or alternatively, ‘show me every house available in Widcombe…’
“Jitty can find any home that matches whatever criteria people want to apply. And that’s the premise for why we started. We found an opportunity to help both agents and homebuyers by connecting people for free.”
New vistas open up. Graham makes the point that web and app and social media development especially in the last 10 years means that all of us are used to greater customisation. Or, from companies’ point of view, greater targeting.
“The way that we think about it is many property websites and especially portals feel like they were designed for pre-millennial thinking. With Jitty we don’t have that legacy.
“Think how Spotify, TikTok, Deliveroo and whatever are the latest dating apps look and work. They reflect that people want these really great, powerful consumer digital experiences. Just think how Spotify alerts you about new music and gigs from your favourite acts. That’s’ the type of thinking what we want to bring to property.
“JITTY CAN FIND ANY HOME THAT MATCHES WHATEVER CRITERIA PEOPLE WANT TO APPLY”
Jitty has strong financial foundations, backed by impressive names. Google’s AI-focused venture fund Gradient Ventures led Jitty’s initial $2m pre-seed funding in August 2023. Others at this stage included major players like Sequoia Capital and True Global. Gradient Ventures also participated in Jitty’s subsequent $3.8 million seed funding round in August this year, which was led by REA Group.
As creds go, that funding level and its provenance goes a long way to underpinning the trust in Jitty. And REA, as a matter of public record, tried to buy Rightmove: major strategic players, then.
The funding as enabled the technology to be built and the business models to be planned. The latter includes a bespoke suite of business tools to help estate agents grow their business. The aim is for Jitty to become a vital tool in the armoury of agents, to use in as customised a way as works for this business.
Several agents are on board with Jitty, such as Cobb Farr, Whiteley Helyar, Wild & Lye, Kit Johnson, Nested and Boardwalk in Bristol; more are due to go live shortly.
“All agents have to do is to supply a direct data feed of homes on their system and we will do the rest. It’s very straightforward then for us to be able to harness the power of AI on their behalf.
“And of course this approach very much supports the traditional expert skills of agents: market knowledge, client understanding, marketing, viewings, objection-handling and then managing sales processes. And Bath?
It’s played a key role for Jitty. “What I find incredible about Bath is it’s small enough for a company like ours to be able to make a ripple and to have an impact, but important enough a city that when you do, people take notice more widely. In larger cities you just can’t make that kind of a splash.
“When I talk to investors in Silicon Valley, they all know Bath and they all love it. And it’s so it’s this really nice, weird thing where like I get a bunch of credibility just because of where I live!” n
Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for summer
TILE & FLOOR For over 50 years, Tile & Floor has been synonymous with the supply of a range of top-tier design-led materials and professional installation services. Our commitment to quality has forged enduring relationships with discerning homeowners overseeing their personal projects, as well as with design and construction professionals serving the property industry. Exciting news! We are now also conveniently located at Chippenham M4. Tel: 01225 310561; www.tileandfloor.co.uk
SANDRIDGE STONE is a local craft-skills business specialising in all aspects of building and restoring local Bath Stone properties. t can supply and fi all stone requirements for new builds or e tensions. he team’s heritage skills qualified stonemasons are also expert in repairing and restoring existing stone on listed properties in order to fulfil planning requirements. o ndar arm err e d e s am 6EF; Tel: 01225 703733; www.sandridgestone.co.uk
Based in the heart of Bath and specialising in bespoke, handmade kitchens, Bath Kitchen Company become personally invested in every kitchen they design and build. t’s about attention to detail at e ery stage – creating a beautiful space that enhances the way you live. ort arade i din s at Tel: 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk
BATH GRANITE & MARBLE LTD has over 25 years experience honing their skills in crafting exquisite kitchen worktops, bathroom cladding, vanity units and more. With their excellent reputation for high quality and delivering exceptional service they are confident in bringing the natural beauty of stone into your home. Mention ‘BathLife’ to secure a 5% discount on your next order. Tel: 01373 472325; email: info@bathgranite.co.uk; www.bathgranite.co.uk
offers a range of bespoke interior design services. Based in Bath and with vast experience in designing and installing developer show homes, hotels and residential properties for private clients, Lisa has the knowledge and skills to work to any brief or budget, whether looking to redesign, update existing furnishings or simply commission new curtains. email: lisa@no17interiors.co.uk; tel:07977 271503; www.no17interiors.co.uk
Clair Strong nterior esign is a boutique, creati e company based in Bath, providing a wide range of services for both residential and commercial clients. er portfolio of projects includes the design, project coordination and sourcing for some of Bath’s most beautiful residences, as well as hotels, sports clubs, offices and other commercial venues. Contact Clair on 07855 797311 or 01225 426905; www.clairstrong.co.uk
Bath’s leading fireplace, wood burner, gas fire, chimney and flue specialist. rom classic to contemporary, concept to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include Chesneys, Barbas Bellfire, estfire, Sto a , a co and unter. et in touch or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton om e at in o@mendi re a es at o Tel: 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk
A bespoke, tailor-made, client-focused interior design consultancy ser ice based in Bath. Specialising in residential interior design and providing a truly personal service adapted to each client’s needs, Jennifer’s unique style blends seamlessly between period and contemporary homes. The aim is simple – to create spaces that bring joy, reflecting her clients’ lifestyles and personalities. Tel: 07738289189; www.jennifermosse.com
NEXUS OF BATH is a Bath based family business specialising in painting and decorating, plastering, tiling, sash window restoration and other property restoration. Nexus have built a reputation for the highest standards of workmanship with experience across a range of projects from listed buildings through to new builds, with a complete commitment to customer service and health and safety
Tel: 01225 300414; www.nexusofbath.co.uk
Originally from Belfast, Patricia Volk is a Bath-based artist who specialises in painted fired clay. After several jobs in media and advertising, she went to art college as a mature student, and is now an active Fellow of the Royal Society of Sculptors and a Royal West of England academician. She is also a member of the Bath Society of Artists (BSA), and her work can be seen at Victoria Art Gallery as part of its current BSA exhibition.
I grew up in Ulster in the 60s, but I’m glad to say that my parents were incredibly nonsectarian and lived in a mixed area. I had friends from both sides of the divide. My father died when I was nine years old and it had a profound effect as he was a hero to me. I left Belfast to move to London just before The Troubles began.
I can remember as a little girl acquiring a bag of clay and making a portrait head in our shed in the garden. I was so delighted. Also, a drawing I did in primary school and the
“I deconstructed the elements of the ITV logo”
teacher called another teacher to the window to show her how good it was. These small things are important memories you carry with you, positive and negative.
When I was growing up, there was no possibility of studying art let alone being an artist. My schooldays were a horrendous experience, as being severely dyslexic, I was labelled as stupid. Reading aloud was a terrifying prospect and, even now, I have difficulty writing e en the shortest note.
I always knew I wanted to be an artist but I didn’t tell anybody because they’d laugh at me. There was one teacher who offered to help me get a portfolio together for art college, but the headmistress would not allow it. When I left school that day, my mother told me I’d made an absolute fool of her.
With no formal qualifications, I went to art college at the age of 35 as a mature student. With my husband’s encouragement, I gave up my job, went to adult education classes, and learned to drive!
Getting onto the foundation course at Middlesex Polytechnic was the happiest day of my life. I couldn’t actually believe it had happened. Halfway through my degree course, we decided to move as a family outside London and chose Bradford on Avon. We didn’t want to relocate to another city but it was ideal to have Bath on our doorstep. I transferred to Bath College of Higher Education to complete my degree and set up my studio practice immediately.
I began with making figurative work and, looking back, was quite restricted, creatively because of the strict upbringing that comes from Northern Ireland, the idea you really shouldn’t break out of a mould or draw attention to yourself.
I became obsessed by creating heads and devoted myself to these pieces over many years, but my practice underwent a radical change when I decided to dispose of the literal depiction and concentrate on pure form, to see if that still felt like ‘me’ – and it did. It opened a new door for me into abstraction, construction and colour.
A remarkable adventure was being commissioned to create an ident for ITV as part of the ITV Creates initiative. hese were little films that come on to brand ITV between the programmes. I deconstructed the elements of the ITV logo so that they became like my abstract forms which knitted together to make a whole. It was such a fantastic, professional experience to watch a film crew shooting my piece from all angles, then edit the footage in different ways, and finally to watch it appear on television.
Our house is full of artworks. We are surrounded by objects that give us pleasure and inspiration. I feel privileged to have them around me as they make me feel in contact with other artists every day. If I have a bit of money come in, I can’t help but celebrate by spending some of it on art. It’s a way of paying back to the community I am part of, and supporting individual artists.
My joy is in discovering new artists and new inspiration such as Ken Price, Ron Nagle, Eduardo Chillida, and pushing what I can achieve with the material.
Having achieved what I’ve done in the creative field to date, I would dearly like to return to some of those teachers who damaged my self-esteem so severely. Something I battle with every single day.
For more: www.patriciavolk.org
