Bath Life – Issue 544

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ISSUE 544 / APRIL 2026 / £5

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BATH’S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES GUIDE

ISSUE 544 / APRIL 2026 / BRIDGERTON HOUSE RULES large version

A‘TON’ OF INSPIRATION HOW TO ACHIEVE THE REGENCYCORE LOOK

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DON’T SAY YES TO THE STRESS!

The ultimate expert list of great wedding advice

CLIMBING UP ON SOLSBURY HILL …and finding the rare flowers of the Bath Greenhouse

GOLD STANDARD

The Olympic wins of Matt Weston and Tabby Stoecker

MODERN CLASSIC

The Marlborough Tavern proves why it’s a Bath institution

LIGHT REIGN

Her Majesty The Queen and her whistlestop tour of the city

PHOTO BY NARR ATED FR AMES; W W W.NARR ATED FR AMES

FR ANCINE BY COLEFA X AND FOWLER AVAIL ABLE THROUGH A XFORD INTERIORS; W W W.A XFORDINTERIORS.CO.UK

EDITOR’S LETTER

I

t starts with a vague notion, and before you know it, you’re doing the full Hyacinth Recital Trot across 14 pages of the magazine. We couldn’t help ourselves – Bridgerton and Bath go together like Daphne & Simon, Colin & Penelope, Anthony & Kate, and Benedict & Sophie. So when we suggested the theme of Regencycore to our local, talented interior design experts, they did not let us down. The results, starting over on page 30, are staggeringly beautiful. From seductive draped beds to look-at-me chandeliers, and from gather-round-and--gossip fireplaces to scandalously sexy copper baths, Regencycore is a look that has us all of a flutter.

What’s even better is the advice reassures us that we don’t have to own a Georgian pile to add a few sumptuous touches and a dash of Featherington-light. But admittedly, it really does help set the Bridgerton scene if you do own an eight-bedroom, eight-bathroom Royal Crescent terrace. Which is exactly what our cover features – a room from one of the most prestigious addresses in Bath. This magnificent drawing room, styled by Bath-based interior designer Clair Strong, embodies so many perfect Regencycore traits – the floral motif wallpaper, the shades of sage, indigo and teal, the flashes of gold, and most importantly, the tall sashed multi-pane windows with views out across the Royal Crescent lawn and reaching onwards to Victoria Park.

This movie-star of a home really is a heartbreaker, but if you have a spare £6.25million, which is what it’s on the market for with Knight Frank, well, you could make it your own and live happily, Bridgertonly, ever after.

SARAH MOOLLA

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Issue 544 / April 2026 COVER Regencycore vibes by interior designer Clair Strong; www.clairstrong.co.uk

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98

INTERIORS

30 REGENCYCORE The Bridgerton upgrade for our homes

THE ARTS

61 ARTS INTRO The Museum of Bath at Work celebrates film 62 WHAT’S ON People to see, places to go 64 CULTURE CLUB The arty picks of Farah Saffari 71 BOOKS Mr B and his novel ideas

WEDDINGS

74 THE LIST The ultimate wedding planner PHOTO BY THE BATH GREENHOUSE

LIFESTYLE

91 SHOP LEAD Be ‘well red’ this season 92 EDITOR’S CHOICE Hot off the catwalk fashion trends

FOOD & DRINK

98 RESTAURANT The terrific Marlborough Tavern 101 NEWS FEED Nuggets from the foodie scene

PHOTO BY TEAM GB; W W W.TEAMGB.COM

GARDENS

104 CULTIVATION The inspiring work of the Bath Greenhouse

PROPERTY

107 PROPERTY LEAD Fashion Museum Bath funding 108 PROPERTY NEWS The latest from the market 110 SHOWCASE Explore 1 Queens Parade

DEPARTMENTS

12 SPOTLIGHT A double bill of sport and royalty 21 SCENE Hello party people!

27 FLATLINE Flats laments the pound-sign wedding list 162 BATH LIVES Meet author Andrew Jamieson

16 Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Nic Bottomley, Elsie Chadwick, David Flatman, John Mather and Nick Woodhouse 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.

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© SUZ Y SLEMEN

SPOTLIGHT

ROYAL PERFORMANCE Her Majesty’s three-stop city visit champions local creativity

© ANNA BARCL AY

Francesca Beauman shows The Queen a Persephone Books’ publication

Curator Rosemary Harding gives a tour of the Holburne exhibition Zandra Rhodes: A Life in Print © ANNA BARCL AY

On other royal news...Her Majesty The Queen made a special visit to Bath on 17 February, undertaking a day of engagements celebrating the city’s arts, literature and community spirit. At the Theatre Royal Bath, where she has been Patron since 2008, The Queen gave her royal seal of approval to the epic community production of David Copperfield: A Life, which was staged in the Main House with a company of 108 local residents. During the visit, Her Majesty also announced the name of the theatre’s new fringe-style community venue, currently being built.

Previously known as Venue 4, the new venue will be called The Billings, in honour of Margot Boyd, whose legacy under the stewardship of the Miss Beryl Billings Charitable Trust, has had a significant impact on the work of community theatre and the arts.

The Queen then visited the Holburne Museum as part of the cultural tour. Greeted by chair Edward Bayntun-Coward and director Dr Chris Stephens, she spent time exploring the collections, including Zandra Rhodes: A Life in Print, and the work of the acclaimed photojournalist Don McCullin who was present to talk through his work. She then toured the new Schroder Gallery and viewed The Shape of Care, a group exhibition created by members of the local community. Participant Debbie says, “When I was homeless ten years ago, at my lowest of lows, I never thought I’d be doing anything like this. It’s a wonderful experience to be involved in.” Dr Chris Stephens adds, “I was extremely proud to showcase the dedication and achievements of my staff and our amazing team of volunteers who make the Holburne a welcoming and inspiring space for everyone.”

The day concluded at Persephone Books, the independent publisher dedicated to reprinting neglected fiction and non-fiction, mostly by women. Founder Nicola Beauman and managing director Francesca Beauman welcomed The Queen for tea and a tour, before she left with three Persephone titles for her Buckingham Palace library (In case you were curious, the books were Crooked Cross by Sally Carson; They Were Sisters by Dorothy Whipple; and Mariana by Monica Dickens). Francesca says, “We showed her round the bookshop, then she sat down at the ‘wrapping table’ and had a cup of tea (‘milk and one’ – a tiny etiquette drama as we weren’t sure whether to pour the milk for her or not), and we had a delightful chat about, not to be immodest, why our books are so wonderful.”

© MAT T CARDY

For more: www.holburne.org | www.theatreroyal.org.uk | wwwpersephonebooks.co.uk

With Don McCullin viewing his Holburne exhibition Broken Beauty

The Queen arrives at Theatre Royal Bath with Mohammed Saddiq, Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset

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© ANNA BARCL AY

Meeting the staff and participants who co-curated the Shape of Care collection

© ANNA BARCL AY

© MAT T CARDY

Bidding farewell at the Holburne

© ANNA BARCL AY

© MAT T CARDY

The Queen greets the crowds outside Theatre Royal Bath

© SUZ Y SLEMEN

Announcing the name of new Theatre Royal Bath community venue The Billings alongside Danny Moar, theatre producer and director

Visiting Persephone Books on Edgar Buildings

© MAT T CARDY

Greeting participants of the recent Theatre Royal Bath’s community play, David Copperfield A Life

© MAT T CARDY

© MAT T CARDY

With Timothy Schroder, silver expert and cousin of Leonie Schroder, admiring the Schroder Gallery and its Renaissance artifacts

With theatre director Sally Cookson

At rehearsals for David Copperfield A Life

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 13

celebrating the women behind camella Melissa Anderson Director/ Founder

Fiona Patton

Head of Sales & Lettings

Tanya Rowley

Client Relationship Manager

March marks the celebration of International Women’s Day, a time to recognise the achievements of women and to reflect on the progress still to be made.

At Camella, a boutique sales and letting agency known for its personal, client-focused approach, the month also offers an opportunity to introduce some of the incredible women who help shape the business every day.

Across the property industry, women remain underrepresented in senior roles. Recent industry research suggests that while women make up a significant portion of the real estate workforce, they hold fewer than a third of leadership positions. The gender gap is even more noticeable at executive

Alex Faint

Client Relationship Manager

Josie Kendall

Client Relationship Manager Apprentice

level, highlighting the importance of organisations that actively support women’s progression and leadership.

At Camella, empowering women is not simply a theme for March, it’s part of the company’s culture. The team prides itself on creating an environment where women are encouraged to grow, lead and thrive within the property sector.

Director Melissa Anderson says “Supporting women to build confidence, develop their skills and take on leadership roles benefits not only our business but the industry as a whole.”

Camella continues to champion the women behind the brand professionals who combine expertise with empathy to deliver a truly boutique experience for clients.

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SNOWBUSINESS University of Bath’s joy after wins at this year’s Winter Olympics Photos by Team GB; www.teamgb.com Matt Weston cemented his legacy as Britain’s most decorated male Winter Olympian by securing two skeleton golds in just three days.

Following an emphatic victory in the men’s individual race, Weston clinched a historic second title alongside Tabby Stoecker in the inaugural Olympic mixed team event.

“I literally can’t describe it,” Matt said of the achievement. “I’ve been fortunate enough to win World Championships, European Championships and other things as well, and this blows them all out of the water. I can’t describe the feeling, I almost feel numb.”

Tabby was equally moved by their gold-medal performance: “It was everything you dream of but are not sure if it is going to happen or not. This morning I woke up and I was trying to stay really present and remember that I had one more run and tried to make it better than yesterday. For this outcome, I’m just so, so happy.”

The history-making continued in the bobsleigh, where Adele Nicoll became the first British woman to contest the Olympic monobob.

Nicoll also delivered a strong performance in the two-woman event with Ashleigh Nelson, who joined an elite group as only the second woman to represent Team GB at both the Summer and Winter Games. Meanwhile, Brad Hall, Britain’s most decorated bobsleigh pilot, secured a second-successive top-seven finish in the four-man competition alongside Taylor Lawrence, Greg Cackett, and debutant Leon Greenwood.

The BBSA’s success is rooted at the University of Bath, a UK sportaccredited Elite Training Centre and home to the UK’s only bobsleigh and skeleton push-start track.

“We are incredibly proud of our long-standing partnership with the BBSA,” says Stephen Baddeley, director of sport at the University of Bath. “It has been wonderful to see them enjoy such outstanding success, not just recently but throughout the past Olympiad and indeed the 25 years since the push-start track first opened.

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Tabby Stoecker and Matt Weston celebrate their wins at this year’s Winter Olympics held in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

“Nine medals, five of them gold, have been won since 2002 by skeleton athletes who train in Bath – a quite phenomenal record of success and an inspiration to everyone within our sports environment.

We are privileged to see at first hand the relentless commitment and dedication from the bobsleigh and skeleton athletes, and they should be proud of their achievements in Cortina. Matt, of course, was phenomenal, as he has been all season, and that second gold with Tabby was just a wonderful moment.”

Weston and Stoecker are the 13th and 14th athletes to be crowned Olympic champions while training at the university. They join a prestigious roll of honour which includes Amy Williams and Lizzy Yarnold for Skeleton; Jason Gardener for Athletics; and Tom Dean, and Freya Anderson, for Swimming. There’s also golds for University of Bath-trained Paralympians including Dimitri Coutya, a double gold medalist for wheelchair fencing; Sascha Kindred won golds in swimming from Sydney 2000 through to Rio 2016, and swimmer Stephanie Millward is a two-time gold medal champion.

For more: www.teambath.com

SPOTLIGHT

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 17

SCENE T H E L AT E S T A DV E N T U R E S I N PA R T Y- GO I N G AC ROSS BAT H

Tyler Howes and Jane Vassallo

Arthur and Erica Timothy

William Keeling and Gus Gavales

Lindsay Woodman and Dominic Clare

Annabel Dalziel, Rosemary Harden and Nina Harrison-Leins

Sir Don McCullin

Juliette Nicol and Lulu Collins

THREE IS THE MAGIC NUMBER

Chris Stephens, director of the Holburne Museum, recently hosted the launch of a new season of exhibitions. The three collections, which can be seen until May, are Don McCullin: Broken Beauty, Zandra Rhodes: A Life In Print, and The Shape of Care.

Attended by more than 400 people, there were speeches from Chris, as well as Sir Don McCullin and Dame Zandra Rhodes.

Photos by Anna Barclay; Instagram @annabarclayphotos For more: www.holburne.org

Emily Ash and Lucy Budgen

Jenafer Parker and Elaine Uttley

Piers Atkinson, Dame Zandra Rhodes and Heidy Hemar Bel Mooney

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 21

Chelsea Dinen, Annalise May and Claire Thatcher

Peter Child, Jane Lawrence-D‘Ademo, Sandra Higgins and Peta Hall

LOOKING GLASS

On 6 February, the No.1 Royal Crescent welcomed 100 people to the private view of the new exhibition Handle with Care: Cornelia Parker & Historic Glass.

The collection, which can be seen until 10 May, looks through the eyes of one of Britain’s most acclaimed contemporary artists, Cornelia Parker, at the historic glass and found objects that inspire her artistic process.

Andrea Schlieker and Patrizia Ribul

Photos by Guy Traynor; www.guytraynorphoto.com For more: www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk

Sir Nicholas Mander, Valentina Mander, Lady Karin Mander and Benny Mander Looking at the beauty of light on glass

Iona Keen, Lucy Badroke and Paula Orrell

James Vincent and Lizzie Rogers Michael Pritchard, Deborah Ireland and Richard Ireland

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Arran Hodgson, Scarlett Mosnier and Izzy Wall

Caroline Smith and Patrizia Ribul

Anne Perng and Beth Main

Anne Shepherd and Mayor of Bath Cllr Professor Bharat Pankhania

Darren Willison and Richard Wyatt

A RICH IMAGINATION

The Mayor of Bath, Councillor Professor Bharat Pankhania, and his wife, Alison, were among the VIP guests at the private view recently held at the Museum of East Asian Art. The event marked the opening of the new exhibition Reimaginings by sculptural artist Hannah Lim, which runs until 19 September. This is her first solo museum show and brings together objects from the museum’s collection alongside Hannah’s contemporary sculptural works, some of which have been created in direct response to items within the collection.

Luca Zenti and Lucy Klemperer

Photos by Anna Barclay; Instagram @annabarclayphotos For more: www.meaa.org.uk

Yukie Scott

Stacey Pottinger

Hannah Lim's work can be seen until 19 September

Tobias Carroll and Douglas Richard McGranachan Higgs

Mayoress of Bath Mrs. Alison Pankhania James Herincx and Brynley Odu Davies

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Michelle Comins and Caroline Frances-King

Hannah Lim and Caroline Lim

FLAT LINE © BETTY BHANDARI BRAND PHOTOGRAPHY; WWW.BETTYBHANDARIBRANDPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

“He decided to monitor precisely who had given them money and how much”

Can’t buy me love The story of a greedy bride and the groom’s savage response

M

y favourite ever wedding list story was brought about by my sociopathic mate Paul.

He and his wife did that thing where they asked us all not to buy gifts to mark their marriage, but to instead make donations to their honeymoon fund. Made sense. The whole thing was a beautiful web of awfulness, though. I’ll explain.

Paul’s (now ex-) wife was never seemingly all that fond of him. She said unpleasant things about him in public - mainly about his unfunny jokes and apparently unimpressive physique though he assured us all she was nice at home.

She sent him horrid text messages when he was out with his mates, though he assured us that she didn’t mean it really. She even, upon walking into the church on their wedding day, gave him a scowl which made half of us wince.

So it didn’t last. But the way Paul tells the wedding list story is sublime and makes it all kind of worth it. I hope I can do it some justice.

Paul didn’t want people to be asked for anything. He always earned lots of money, as did she. They already lived in a big house and drove silly cars. In fact they went to the Maldives to relax before they tied the knot.

Paul’s then-fiancée, though, was what my late

Nana might have called a greedy old cow. She saw an opportunity to rake it in and, despite Paul’s protestations, ploughed on with emailed and posted contribution requests. Paul was mortified, but he had a plan.

You see, the thing was that they were never planning to do a big honeymoon. They were only just back from the Maldives for goodness sake, and they had businesses to run! But her plan was to, well, pocket the dough. Just to keep it. Spend it on sweets. Or a watch. Or a new sofa. Whatever, rake it in. Free money.

Really Paul ought to have seen this behaviour manifesting in his future wife and bailed, but we’ve all got degrees in hindsight. Instead, after years of unpleasantness going unsanctioned, he decided to monitor precisely who had given them money and how much, and who had given them nothing. A month or so after the wedding Paul sent an email to the entire wedding guest list, in which he included a list of every name and their contribution amount, even if it was £0.

He asked everyone who had donated £20 or less to explain why they hadn’t offered more.

A clever man who runs a tech company, he included a multiple choice tick-box survey on the email for all to see. It was beyond savage

and, no matter how many times we called him that day, he would not answer. Nor the day after. It was excruciating, especially when his wife joined in, eviscerating him on a ‘Reply All’.

As it happened, he was away on a football trip with his local team, and had set this email to send after he’d left. His phone was in his car in a Heathrow car park that whole weekend. He knew it would be buzzing harder than an Ibiza DJ, and that caused him a few internal smiles as he sipped cheap lager and lost some low-grade football matches.

His first text upon landing was to his wife, and it read: “Hey hey! Just landed. How much £££ we got?” Predictably he came home to the marital equivalent of an AK-47 to the throat.

So that was the mechanism in all its barbarity. But the message was that he was so disappointed and humiliated by his wife’s greed – and that she had refused to give an inch once the pound signs had started rolling around in her mind – that he thought he’d teach her a lesson. A bit rough, maybe, on reflection. Yes. It gets worse though.

He finished things off by telling everyone that they had never really intended to have a big honeymoon, and that they might just stick the cash in their savings account. He even signed off that email (I received it too!) with a photo of him wiping his brow with a fifty pound note.

The marriage lasted a full year, somehow, but it was never going to go the distance. There is a happy ending, mind you, in that they have both remarried and are proper mates now. Amazing.

We never saw that coming. Said ex-wife actually loves telling this story these days, too, which I admire hugely. And obviously, most importantly of all, he gave us all our money back!

Anyway, there is a proper moral here: wedding lists can be really fun and useful and lovely, just don’t be bloody greedy.

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

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BOTANICAL RETREAT

Inside BRAMLEY’S Bath boutique, where a world of botanicals is brought to life in the charming Shires Yard courtyard

T

ucked away in the cobbled courtyard of Shires Yard, Bramley’s Bath boutique is more than a shop, it’s a sensory retreat in the heart of the city. As the brand’s newest and only standalone store, it brings Bramley’s botanical world to life in the most fitting of settings: the beautiful Georgian city of Bath.

Founded in 2009 by Chloë Luxton and originally created for The Beckford Arms, Bramley has hospitality in its DNA. As the sister brand to The Beckford Group (owner of The Beckford Canteen and Beckford Bottle Shop), it was born from a desire to create natural, essential oil-based products that guests would fall in love with and want to take home.

Today, Bramley is proud to be a certified B Corp, reflecting its long-standing commitment to people, planet and purpose alongside beautiful, effective products. The brand is also the longstanding amenity partner to The PIG Hotels, including the much-loved The PIG-near Bath, where the bespoke PIG by Bramley collection

“BRAMLEY’S BATH BOUTIQUE IS MORE THAN A SHOP, IT’S A SENSORY RETREAT IN THE HEART OF THE CITY”

has become something of a cult favourite.

The Bath shop offers the full awardwinning bath, body and home collections (we also can’t forget Little B for little ones and Digby for dogs!), alongside the brand’s newest venture, Skin by Bramley, a botanical, treatment-led skincare range now found in leading spas across the UK. Bramley has long been recognised as a pioneer of the refill movement, and visitors can experience this commitment to sustainability first-hand at the in-store refill station. Bring your empties to top up, discover new favourites, and take a moment at the beautiful marble sink to enjoy a restorative hand-washing ritual powered by pure essential oils.

Community and connection sit at the heart of the space. Throughout the year, the shop plays host to a thoughtfully curated programme of events; from a women’s health

and wellbeing evening with Mariella Frostrup, a revision & exam stress workshop with Lucinda Miller to creative workshops including tablescaping and seasonal gatherings.

Beautiful botanical displays adorn the stunning central table from our friends at Another Country, while delicious tea from Bird & Blend Tea Co. is served in elegant John Julian cups, making every visit feel layered with considered detail.

Bramley’s resident therapist Hannah hosts bi-weekly drop-in Skin Clinics in store, offering personalised skincare advice and guidance.

When she’s not in Shires Yard, you’ll find her at the Bramley treatment cabin at The Bath Arms, delivering Skin by Bramley facials designed to restore glow and balance.

At the helm is shop manager, Georgie, whose warm welcome makes each visit feel like stepping into a friend’s home. Whether you’re discovering Bramley for the first time or replenishing a well-loved favourite, the Bath boutique invites you to pause, breathe and immerse yourself in Bramley’s Botanical Magic™.

In a city famed for wellbeing, Bramley feels right at home.

Bramley, Shires Yard, Bath; www.bramleyproducts.co.uk/pages/bath-shop

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 29

ALL BRIDGERTON PICTURES COURTESY OF NETFLIX; W W W.NETFLIX.COM

INTERIORS

A new season of style How to introduce Bridgerton-inspired elegance into your home without too much drama

By Sarah Moolla

earest Gentle Reader, if you’re already missing the opulence and romance of Bridgerton on your screen, you’re not alone. The carriages may have rolled away, and the ballrooms may have emptied, but that doesn’t mean our love affair with drama and elegance has to end. The world of the Ton can live on long after the closing credits – right in your own home. From delicate pastels and plush fabrics to opulent florals and refined period details, the Bridgerton aesthetic is all about creating a setting worthy of a love story. You don’t need a stately home or a Queen Charlotte to bring create everyday Regencycore – just a little creativity, a few clever design tricks and a dash of confidence. Here, with the help of our local experts, we share fabulous ideas, grand gestures and the quietest of whispers to weave that unmistakable Bridgerton magic into your interior décor.

Bath as a backdrop for the filming of the award-winning Netflix series, many of us are fortunate to own buildings which once may have played host to the activities of high-society. In a city flooded with Georgian architecture of both historical value and national importance, we are fortunate to benefit from residential buildings providing well-proportioned spaces, high ceilings and tall, generous windows, allowing for city and landscape views and an abundance of natural light.”

That sense of escapist glamour doesn’t have to be reserved for listed townhouses, as interior designer and director Emily Day explains, “There’s something undeniably intoxicating about the world of Bridgerton. Lavish ballrooms, hushed drawing rooms and colour-drenched interiors have captivated viewers across the globe. But while the grand townhouses of Regency Bath may boast soaring ceilings and ornate cornicing, you don’t need a listed Georgian masterpiece to capture the magic. With a little creative intention, even the most modest modern home can embrace that romantic, aristocratic allure so loved by Bridgerton fans everywhere.”

“Gold provides the drama without ever feeling brash”

Make an entrance

From the sweeping crescents to its honey-hued terraces, Bath is the perfect real-life setting for Bridgerton-style interiors at home as Mark Lord, the founding director of Lord Architecture, notes, “With

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above: Go the full Queen Charlotte, and Regencycore your home (Pomeranians optional extra); opposite: The Bridgerton look is perfect for many of Bath’s Georgian homes notes architect Mark Lord

ROCOCO STRIPE IN ALFRESCO FROM THE AW2025 ROCOCO COLLECTION BY JAMES HARE. W W W.JAMES-HARE.COM

INTERIORS

Set the scene

Colour is one of the quickest ways to conjure that Regency mood as Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages points out.“Blue is the colour we return to time and again, as it evokes a classic sense of refinement. Sage and mint greens are also key Regency tones, reflecting the period’s love of nature and botanical influence, not dissimilar to our own. Greens bring freshness and balance, particularly when combined with cream, blush or antique gold.

Gold provides the drama without ever feeling brash, appearing in trims, mirrors and decorative details to deliver that unmistakable Regency glamour.”

For interiors that feel true to the period yet liveable today, John Law, creative director, interiors of Woodhouse and Law, looks back to Bridgerton’s era for inspiration. He says, “Bridgerton is set primarily in the Regency period, one that saw a movement towards either bold, vivid jewel tones; or sweet, pastel shades – often combined with elaborate inlays and intricate patterns. It was very much the maximalist era; if you could afford it, you quite literally gilded it.

“It was also a time when interiors were heavily influenced by distant shores; from the neo-classical and French Empire to Egyptian and Greek motifs – as well as the Prince Regent’s very own flamboyant taste. Advances in production techniques meant that more ornate

fabrics and carpets could also be woven. Damasks and florals, including ornate, intricate chinoiserie, featured prominently in these components.

Bridgerton very much plays up to the beautiful excesses of this style.

“In our own work, we often reference these design elements from the sense of balance, light and air of neo-classical style to the use of rich colour and pattern – albeit in a more low-key way than the Regency style. In our work with the Royal Crescent Hotel for example, we dressed the windows of the drawing room with a swag, featuring a bold, contemporary pattern, as a playful contrast to the style of the window treatment. Equally, we’ve introduced bold florals to our other design schemes, offset with the clean lines of contemporary and mid-century furniture and lighting to avoid a pastiched look.”

Property and interiors photographer Pete Helme agrees that the palette is key to getting the look right. He says, “Bridgerton’s colours are all about romance without feeling fussy. Think soft pastels, blush pinks, powder blues, gentle lavenders, ice cream colours and creamy neutrals. They often mingle with warmer greys, soft ivories or the occasional jewel-tone pop like emerald or sapphire, just enough to make you sit up and notice. For a modern spin, you don’t need to drench the room in them; a powder-blue kitchen island or a splash of blush on a cabinet can give that Regency charm without making your walls feel like a costume ball.”

“There’s something undeniably intoxicating about the world of Bridgerton”

PHOTO BY PETE HELME PHOTOGR APHY

opposite: Furnishings expert Laura Campbell loves the James Hare Rococo collection for romantic fabric layering; below: Interiors and property photographer Pete Helme suggests ice cream colours and creamy neutrals, as seen here in the Woodhouse & Law’s design for the Royal Crescent Hotel

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 33

INTERIORS

above Clair Strong says ceiling roses, cornices and wall panelling add instant Regency-style elegance; below: Combine elaborate inlays and intricate patterns is the advice of interiors creative John Law

PHOTO BY PETE HELME PHOTOGR APHY

Blossoming beauty

Nature and florals are at the heart of Bridgerton’s aesthetic, from blossomfilled ballrooms to wisteria-clad facades, and they translate beautifully into real homes. Interior designer Clair Strong says, “Flowers are one of the simplest ways to bring Regency romance into a home. Delicate floral motifs in wallpaper or fabrics also help link interiors with the garden beyond.”

Building on that, interior designer Libby Carter says, “Once the colour story is established, fabrics and pattern bring the look to life.

Damask, toile and delicate florals are quintessentially Regency, entirely at home in a drawing room overlooking the crescents and terraces of Bath. Scale, however, is everything. A large-scale floral wallpaper in muted tones can create impact without fuss, particularly when balanced with simpler painted finishes elsewhere. Alternatively, pattern can be layered more gently through cushions, drapery or an upholstered headboard, allowing the room to feel nuanced rather than theatrical, reminiscent of the restrained grandeur associated with Bath’s Georgian heritage.” Pete Helme agrees, “Florals are a simple way to hint at the era’s love of nature. A bouquet in a classical urn, a few floral cushions, or a botanical print can bring a touch of Bridgerton’s lush charm. Keep things soft and romantic; less is often more when it comes to elegance.”

Katherine Henham, residential interior designer, adds, “Floral motifs are central to the aesthetic – think romantic English garden and the way nature inspires when it’s brought into the home, whether through floral wallpaper, fresh flower arrangements, botanical art prints or embroidered cushions.”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 35

INTERIORS

above: Furniture choices should echo the period’s love of ornament and curve says interior designer Katherine Henham

Drawing room drama

In Bridgerton, drawing rooms are the stage for gossip, flirtation and grand entrances. At home, the same spaces can be elevated with a few clever design moves. Emily Day says, “One of the simplest yet most transformative tricks is to encourage the eye upwards. Floor-to-ceiling bookcases are a wonderful way to create the illusion of height, instantly lending gravitas and architectural presence to a room. Painted in a heritage hue and filled with hardbacks, objets d’art and trailing greenery, they evoke the intimacy of a private library. The vertical lines naturally draw the gaze up, subtly enhancing ceiling height and delivering that coveted sense of grandeur.”

Furniture finishes can also help channel that sense of ‘faded finery’. “Bridgerton is a rich and widely scoped canvas to dress and can be replicated in the home with the blend of clever basics and carefully aged pieces of furniture,” says Vanessa Sayce, owner of Marmalade House Design. “The Regency and Gustavian finishes bring a faded grandeur to a piece, as do faded French greens, Swedish blues and faded mauves. They all bring the warmth of a bygone era, but also fit with contemporary interiors.

Against a backdrop of elaborate damask wallpapers and elegant light fittings, rich carpets and muted-tone walls, a signature piece of furniture can arrest the eye and add the finishing touch to the ‘set’ of a room.”

Architectural flourishes are another shortcut to Regency elegance as

interior designer Claire Strong explains, “Architectural details are one of the most effective ways to evoke the Regency era. Ceiling roses, cornices and wall panelling add instant elegance. Consider simple mouldings painted in the same colour, as the walls can transform a plain space. Picture-frame mouldings are particularly effective and relatively easy to introduce.”

Furniture choices should echo the period’s love of ornament and curve says Katherine Henham.

“When choosing antique furniture, look for pieces with elegant curved legs, such as cabriole or fluted styles, and tufted upholstery or fringing – here, more is more when it comes to layering decorative details. Carved wood accents, often finished with gilt or gold detailing, add to the sense of opulence, while rich velvet or classic damask fabrics complete the look.”

Interior designer Sarah Nelson suggests using colour and structure together. She says, “With a few thoughtful design choices, you can recreate that effortless Regency elegance in your own space. Start with wall panelling – decorative mouldings are essential. Once installed, paint the walls in soft powder blues, gentle sage greens, or delicate plaster pinks to instantly evoke a Regency mood.

Alternatively, consider wallpapering within the mouldings using a subtle damask or a graceful floral pattern to add depth and character. The overall colour palette should feel light, soft, and elegant. Choose one dominant pastel tone and layer it with complementary neutrals to create a refined, harmonious space.”

“Bridgerton’s colours are all about romance without feeling fussy”

36 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Sarah Nelson Interiors BESPOKE INTERIOR DESIGN AND STYLING

I specialise in residential interiors, focusing on curtains, blinds, and all soft‑furnishing. I also source furniture and create complete room designs for my clients. I love being involved from the very beginning—choosing colours, textures, and materials—right through to the final reveal.

If you need help bringing your vision to life, I’d love to hear from you.

✆ 07714548230  sarahnelsoninteriors@gmail.com www.sarahnelson.co.uk

Award winning Bespoke handmade kitchens 3 Queen Square Bath BA1 2HA 01225 312003 bathkitchencompany.co.uk

INTERIORS

Bold statements

Statement pieces are the stars of any Bridgerton-inspired room, whether it’s a swooping chaise or a spectacular bath. Pete Helme says, “A few key pieces really define the period, like a chaise longue for lounging, a fourposter bed for drama, a writing bureau or vanity for a touch of charm.

Placed alongside simpler, contemporary pieces, they keep the room feeling lived-in and fresh. A Regency chaise with a minimalist rug or side table, for example, feels effortless and current.”

The same principle applies in the bathroom. Neil Curtis, design specialist with Ripples, says, “At the heart of any Bridgertoninspired bathroom lies the bathing experience, and nothing announces luxury like a copper freestanding bathtub. With its rich, warm hue and naturally evolving patina, copper introduces a sense of history and tactile beauty that feels right at home alongside refined architectural details. Choose a generously proportioned silhouette with a gently rolled rim or slipper shape to echo period elegance and position it as the room’s centrepiece – ideally beneath a window or within a framed alcove that allows it space to breathe and be admired.

“The warmth of copper pairs beautifully with complementary metals in the brassware. Select finishes like brushed brass or polished nickel for the taps and fittings, avoiding cold modern chrome in favour of softer, more traditional tones. Floor-mounted bath fillers with graceful curves and lever handles will further enhance that curated, classical feel.”

Elsewhere in the home, “the aristocratic grandeur of the many town houses and country homes featured in Bridgerton is personified by eclectic collections of artwork, statement furniture, antiques. They feature lighting and often hand painted wallpaper, all adorning spaces with ornate marble fireplaces, elaborate cornices, dado and picture rails, decorative plaster panel mouldings, blocks, and friezes and natural wood or stone floors,” says Mark Lord.

38 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

opposite: Layering fabric,

texture and symmetry gives rooms that dressed quality says Lara Willmore of Axford Interiors; above: Floral motifs in wallpaper can really bring about the Regencycore effect advises Clair Strong; left: Interior designer Emily Day reminds us we don’t need a Georgian mansion to add touches of Bridgerton to the home; below: Vanessa Sayce of Marmalade House Design suggests Regency and Gustavian finishes to bring a faded grandeur to a piece

FR ANCINE BY COLEFA X & FOWLER

“Drapery was used to dress walls, doors, passageways and bed frames”

INTERIORS

A Ton of ideas

From small treasures to heirloom pieces, antiques have a vital role to play in Bridgerton-inspired schemes. Clair Strong says, “I always encourage clients to include at least one or two antique or vintage pieces, as they instantly create an authentic touch. Writing bureaus, occasional tables and elegant chairs with curved legs sit well alongside modern furniture and add character. Gilded mirrors, Roman or Greek style classical busts, and gilt framed botanical or landscape prints all work well.”

Building on this, Mark Lord adds, “Antique or vintage pieces to channel the Regency look, along with artwork, exotic statement pieces like taxidermy (although not to everyone’s taste) are commonplace in eclectic country house collections. Modern responsibly sourced works by artists of our time can enhance an interiors collection and reference the wonder and unique beauty of the natural world.”

For photographer Pete Helme, the key is how these pieces transform the feel of a room. He says, “Adding a few antique pieces instantly grounds a room. Think gently curved chairs, a small writing desk or a delicate sideboard. Artwork can pick up on the Regency love of romance, such as portraits, pastoral scenes or classical sculptures, all of which work beautifully. Even just one statement piece can give a room that period charm without feeling like a museum. It’s the little details that make a room feel truly Bridgerton. Silver trays, delicate tea sets, ornate mirrors, and glassware all add a touch of charm, while books, chess sets, or small curios bring personality and warmth. Layer them thoughtfully, keeping things elegant and understated. Regency style is opulent, but never cluttered.”

Of course, it’s not just about the furniture – impact matters too.

“Every Bridgerton-style room needs a sense of drama and a clear focal point, whether it’s part of the backdrop or a key, functional element in the space,” explains Katherine Henham. “This might be a bold wallpaper feature wall, an oversized gold mirror, a dramatic chandelier or a romantic canopy bed, each one drawing the eye and setting the tone for the room’s irresistibly theatrical charm.”

John Law agrees that mixing eras is the key to a look that feels both rooted and relevant. He says, “We love combining antique pieces with contemporary furniture and art; nothing lends a scheme more depth and style than this approach. It gives a space a real sense of individuality and it’s fitting that homes in a city like Bath – built on fashion and trends – should continue to embrace this, with a firm nod to its heritage.”

“It was very much the maximalist era; Light of our life if you could afford it, you quite literally gilded it”

No Bridgerton-inspired room is complete without the right glow. “It’s important to remember that Georgian and Regency interiors were viewed in the main by candlelight, so the rooms would look very different than they do today,” says John Law. “The bold colour, ornate gilding and pattern ensured these dimly lit spaces felt decadent and luxurious.”

Colour, too, was chosen with low light in mind, as Clair Strong explains, “Regency interiors favoured soft colours designed to glow in candlelight. Powdery pastels such as pale blue, butter yellow, soft rose and ivory formed the core palette, often paired with broader accents like emerald or navy. Look for historical colours from Farrow & Ball and Little Greene. Lighting was essential not only for illumination but for atmosphere. No Regency drawing room was complete without a chandelier – consider a crystal or brass design with multiple arms and

below: The Bridgerton look is personified by eclectic collections of artwork, statement furniture, and antiques says Mark Lord

40 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

INTERIORS

opposite: To hint at opulence without going over the top is the Regency look for now says Jamie Watkins of wallpaper specialists Divine

Savages; above: Jane Atkins of Mendip Fireplaces Bath reminds us that the fireplace can both create an atmosphere and frame the action; below: Nothing announces luxury like a copper freestanding bathtub says Neil Curtis of Ripples

sparkling droplets, which can look wonderful in modern interiors when balanced with simpler furnishings. Wall sconces create a softer glow and reference candlelight in a subtle way. Mirrors were strategically placed opposite windows to amplify candlelight and reflect greenery from outside so I often replicate this Regency idea by placing mirrors opposite windows or light sources to reflect light and add sparkle.”

This idea of layered light translates effortlessly to contemporary spaces. Mark Lord says, “Feature pendant lighting and plaster wall lights are our go-to choices for both modern and historic spaces. The former providing a statement in the centre of the room and the latter a subtle low light amid the paintings and panelling.”

Emily Day adds that the right lighting is the touch that completes the look. She says, “Lighting is the final flourish. Grandeur is as much about glow as it is about colour. Glass chandeliers, now available in an array of contemporary silhouettes, scatter light beautifully, adding sparkle and ceremony to everyday living. For a more intimate nod to the past, consider wall sconces on both sides of the bed. Whether ornately detailed or finished in warm bronze, they cast a flattering, cocooning light perfect for evening reading. Echoing the romance of gaslit wall lamps, they quietly recreate the atmosphere of wealth and refinement.”

Keep it modiste

Layering fabric, texture and symmetry gives rooms that ‘dressed’ quality so associated with Georgian and Regency style. Lara Willmore, interior design consultant with Axford Interiors, says, “Layering is key in dressing a room when giving a nod to the Georgian period. For example, in a sitting room, think self-patterned upholstery fabrics, and symmetrically arranged cushions with trim detailing. Symmetry was often used in Georgian and Regency design both architecturally and in interior dressing – it offers a sense of grandeur and helps to make

42 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

“Regency style is confident and expressive”

INTERIORS

Rocking the Regency

above: Create impactful focal points is the advice of Katherine Henham;

For rooms that feel convincingly Regency rather than themed, symmetry and patina are essential. Sarah Nelson says, “Symmetry was beloved in Regency interiors, so consider installing bookcases on either side of the fireplace. Fill them with old bound books – their worn spines add authenticity and depth. These can often be sourced from charity shops, car boot sales, or specialist retailers who sell books by the metre in curated colour palettes. Layer old, faded rugs over wooden floors in muted greens and soft pinks – the more timeworn, the better. They add warmth, texture, and comfort underfoot.

“Incorporate antique gilded accents throughout the room. Brass candlesticks, ornate mirrors, and decorative table lamps are essential.

Artwork should be framed in gilded or carved frames to reinforce that period charm. To complete the look, Sarah suggests, “styling a side table with fresh flowers, a small stack of vintage books, a delicate cup and saucer, and, if possible, conceal the television. A challenge in most homes, perhaps – but well worth the effort for preserving the romance of the room.”

“Symmetry plays an important role in capturing Regency elegance,” says Neil Curtis. “In bathrooms, it would be, for example, double basins flanked by matching mirrors, paired wall lights, and aligned cabinetry, all of which create a sense of order and grace. Even in smaller spaces, framing fixtures and fittings in symmetrical layouts gives the eye a sense of calm and intention. Architectural detailing, from panelled walls to ceiling cornices or shallow arches, softens the room and anchors the design. These built-in touches bridge historical inspiration with contemporary comfort, ensuring the space feels immersive rather than theatrical. A Bridgerton-inspired bathroom isn’t about fantasy, but rather about bringing warmth, proportion and material richness into everyday life.”

Wallpaper and pattern can then be layered on top, as Jamie Watkins

below: Regency style is confident and expressive says Jamie Watkins

a space feel larger. For window dressings, blinds set into the recess in addition to curtains draped dramatically to frame the window give a sense of perspective and elegance. Taking the concept of layering even further, swags and tails to the window for that regal touch or pelmets to block light and frame the window work perfectly. Trimming is also a must for window dressing. Fringe details to the inside leading edge of a curtain or delicate beading to the bottom of a blind, with coordinating tassel tie-backs, add to the overall ornate finish. Curtains were not just exclusive to window dressing. Drapery was also used to dress walls, doors, passageways and bed frames. Whilst functionally they help keep the space warmer, aesthetically they also add to the sophistication and connection of the colours across the room. This is a trend we are definitely currently seeing filter into interior furnishings in a more paredback way.”

Libby Carter echoes this and says, “Texture plays an equally important role. Lightweight linens, upholstered walls, embroidered cottons and silk blends introduce softness and movement, catching the light beautifully against those powdery backdrops, much like sunlight filtering through tall sash windows in a Bath townhouse. Layered details, brass wall lights with pleated lampshades, trimmed cushions using heavy velvets and matelassé bedspreads, add depth and quiet luxury without overwhelming the space.”

Soft furnishings expert Laura Campbell takes the idea of layering into specific fabric choices. She says, “James Hare is the winner for a true Bridgertown style with their traditional silks, but they also have great modern variations. The collection Rococo shows its ability to sit traditional silk damask, stripes and plains alongside a swirling motif print, which modernises the collection. Their iconic silk Orissa in pastel colours, as recently featured in the film Wuthering Heights. I think the trick is to layer. Use the silk and have a half tester for example but with a box pleat valance then mix it with a cotton small print, which is modern and fun, to line and add some tassel or brush fringe.”

“Sage and mint greens are key Regency tones”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 45

INTERIORS

The deVOL team say look for big dairy-style tables that can handle a feast for that authentic Regency kitchen look

explains, “From our perspective as a wallpaper brand, the key is balance – to hint at opulence without going over the top. Regency style was confident and expressive, but in a contemporary home it works best when used thoughtfully. Rather than literally recreating a period room, we suggest using colour and pattern as a focal point, perhaps a feature wall or a framed panel, and pairing it with more contemporary furnishings. This contrast of old and new keeps the look current while still capturing that sense of romance and refinement. Texture is equally important – flocked or richly printed wallpapers bring depth, while a controlled palette ensures the overall effect feels curated rather than too theatrical.”

Vanessa Sayce sums up the approach: “To create the Bridgerton style at home, you need to think of the balance between the basics (flooring, wall colour and coving) and have fun with the range of colours, dramatic pieces to add in and small accessorising touches to add that wow factor. Muted colours, working with gilt, elegant shapes and large statement pieces are your go-to.”

“The mantelpiece plays host to ornate mirrors, candlesticks, floral arrangements and artwork to enhance the space’s grandeur.

“The fireplaces in the grand drawing room and ballrooms were markers of wealth and status with designs and materials, such as opulent marbles, visually reinforcing this. Classical decorative accents with carved pilasters, bullseye detailing and floral paterae reflect the neo-classical influences for historical resonance. Local Bath stone and cast-iron register grates were also materials featured in this period. From a gentleman’s study to bedrooms, a functional kitchen and more humble servants’ quarters, the fireplace was, and remains, a central feature in every room in this period.”

“Fabrics and pattern bring the look to life” Servants’ quarters

A fiery affair

At the heart of many of Bridgerton’s most memorable scenes is a flickering fire. “In Regency England, fireplaces were more than just a heat source.

They were central architectural features, and as seen in Bridgerton, they played a large part in the romantic, aristocratic aesthetic,” says Jane Atkins, sales director with Mendip Fireplaces Bath. “They frame scenes of social gatherings, private conversations and confessions, sharing the gossip behind the latest issue of Whistledown and creating a soft, glowing atmosphere for more intimate moments.

46 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Of course, below-stairs style has its own, more utilitarian charm – and it’s increasingly influencing modern kitchens. Paul O’Leary, founder of deVOL Kitchens says, “below-stairs style kitchens that look and behave like servants from another era. Plain tiled walls, open shelves, open space under a huge sink, pots hanging on rails, a great big range that can handle a feast, big tables at worktop height that say ‘use me, abuse me, I can take it.’”

Creative director Helen Parker, also with deVOL Kitchens, suggests another key component in the hard-working but beautiful kitchen downstairs at Bridgerton is the dairy table. “These straddle the kitchen table and the island; they feel and look like a table, yet they are more of a prep space. They feel much less kitchen-y than an island, more a beautiful heirloom piece of furniture. People are furnishing their kitchens rather than fitting them, so a dairy table is the perfect piece for this look.” n

Design that reflects your individuality.

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At Emily Day Interiors, we create beautiful, functional spaces tailored to your style and the way you live or work. From full transformations to subtle refreshes, each project is approached with creativity and expertise. Emily specialises in residential and small commercial interiors, delivering thoughtful, colour-led designs from concept to completion.

Info@emilydayinteriors.co.uk 07809834225 www.emilydayinteriors.co.uk @emily_day_interiors

SHOPPING LIST

Buy like a Bridgerton How to get the Regency look The Manopoulos Greek mythology chess set with wooden case, £278.69, from Regency Chess; www.regencychess.co.uk

Corbels available from Artistic Plastercraft; www.artisticplastercraft.co.uk

Monthly flower subscription, prices range from £40-60 per month, from Pulteney Bridge Flowers; www.pulteneybridgeflowers.co.uk

Postcard of Queen Charlotte (1744–1818) by Johann Zoffany, £1, from The Holburne; www.holburne.org

Bethnal glass carafe, £79, from Neptune; www.neptune.com

Baobab rug in gold, £899, from Heals; www.heals.com

Ma Petite Douceur pet ded, £375, from French Bedroom; www.frenchbedroom.co.uk

Marble effect tray with handles, £49, from Graham & Green; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

Daydream plaster cast, £552, from Nicholas H Wood; www.nicholashwood.co.uk

Metal Candelabra, £50, from Cox& Cox; www.coxandcox.co.uk

Bibury smoked oak kingsize four poster bed, was £1099, now £659, from Cotswold Company; www.cotswoldco.com

Daphne mirror in gold, £550, from Oka; www.oka.com

Ophelia’s Tide wallpaper, £159, from Divine Savages; www.divinesavages.com

48 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Curtains & Blinds

Design | Make | Install

Here at Libby Carter & Co, our workroom creates beautifully tailored hand-sewn curtains, bespoke blinds and soft furnishings that elevate and complete your home.

Our experienced team offers a seamless measure, design, supply and install service, ensuring every detail is carefully considered and perfectly fitted.

Whether dressing a single room or an entire home, we guide you through fabrics, styles and finishes to create beautifully dressed windows.

14 queen square, bath, ba1 2hn | 07743 393022 | www.libbycarterandco.com

RENOVATION & CONSTRUCTION

Tel: 07867557496 www.daffodilrenovations.co.uk

RENOVATION SPECIALISTS AT SHIRES YARD

The List

Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home décor needs this spring ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY SERVICES Bath Stonemasons

01225 462688; www.bathstonemasons.co.uk Bespoke Roofing Services

01225 805661; www.bespokeroofingservices.co.uk Daffodil Renovations

Somerset Barn, Old Redhouse Farm, Stratton on the Fosse; 07867 557 496; www.daffodilrenovations.co.uk Dunsdon Barn

Dunsdown Lane,West Littleton Wilts; 01225 892220 Noad Roofing

Bolwell Buildings, 1 Claverton St, Widcombe Parade, Bath; 01225 941949; www.noadandsons.co.uk Norton Masonry

8 Pickford Fields, Chilcompton, Radstock; 01761 232906; www.nortonmasonryltd.co.uk Opies Construction

11 Woodborough Rd, Radstock; 07969613872 Plushh Restoration

01225 767148; www.plushhrestoration.co.uk; Rich Tyers Studios

11 Manvers Street, Bath; 01225 667507; www.rtstudios.co.uk Wraxall Builders

Brewery, Toll Bridge Rd, Bath; 01225 859865; www.wraxallbuilders.com Youngs Roofing

Braysdown Bungalow, Woodborough, Peasedown St John, Bath; 01225 421499; www.youngsroofingbath.co.uk

BATHROOMS Ripples

Chelsea House, London Road; Bath; 01225 447971; www.ripples.ltd.uk Rolls Interiors

3, Edgar Buildings, Bath 01225 340684; www.rollsinteriors.com

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

The Marmalade House

Roundhill Farmhouse, Bath; 01225 445855; www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk

CURTAINS, SOFT FURNISHINGS AND UPHOLSTERY

INTERIORS Tile & Floor

1, Mile End, London Rd, Bath; 01225 310561; www.tileandfloor.co.uk

FURNITURE Leekes

Beanacre Rd, Melksham, Wiltshire; 0333 222 4120; www.leekes.co.uk

GARDENS AND EXTERIORS Bath Garden Design

Studio 107, The Glove Factory Studios, Holt, Bradford on Avon; 01225 317977; www.bathgardendesign.com Rosie Nottage

The Studio, 34 Malvern Buildings, Bath; 07967 316259 www.rosienottage.com Woodhouse & Law

4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill Bath; 01225 428072; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

HOME APPLIANCES AND COOKERS Coopers Stores

13-15 Walcot St, Bath & Dunsdon Road, West Littleton, Chippenham; 01225 311811; www.coopers-stores.com

Axford Interiors

INTERIOR DESIGN

The Curtain Exchange

Baileys courtyard, Perrinpit Rd, Frampton Cotterell, Bristol 07925 48074; www.baileyandcointeriordesign.co.uk

The Studio, 389 Gaston, Holt, Wiltshire; 07749 707056 www.axfordinteriors.co.uk 11 Widcombe Parade, Bath; 01225 422078; www.thecurtainexchange.co.uk; Maison Histoire

Charlcutt, Farm, Calne SN11 9HL; 07306 607553; www.maisonhistoire.co.uk

FIREPLACES AND WOODBURNERS

Mendip Fireplaces (Bath)

The Old Mill, Mill Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath; 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

FLOORING, CARPETS, STONE AND TILES Boniti

Bailey&Co

Chapter Interiors

Level 5, The Old Malthouse, Clarence St, Bath; 07747 047278; www.chapterinteriors.co.uk Clair Strong Interior Design

2 Walcot Buildings, Bath; 01225 426905/ 07855 797311; www.clairstrong.co.uk The Curators House

The Marmalade House

Roundhill Farmhouse, Bath; 01225 445855; www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk Perfect Rooms & Interiors

Little Notton Farmhouse, Lacock, Wiltshire; 01249 716445; www.perfectrooms.co.uk Sarah Nelson Interiors

07714 548230; www.sarahnelson.co.uk

Woodhouse & Law

4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill Bath; 01225 428072; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

INTERIOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Pete Helme Photography

07789 211424; www.petehelme.co.uk

KITCHENS

The Bath Kitchen Company

3 Queen Square, Bath; 01225 312003; www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk deVOL Kitchens

17 George St, Bath; 01225 308803; www.devolkitchens.co.uk Hobbs Marble & Granite

Radstock Rd, Midsomer Norton, Norton Radstock; 01761 412934 www.hobbsmarbleandgranite.co.uk Hobsons Choice

London Road, Bath; 01225 433511; www.hobsonschoice.uk.com Leekes

Beanacre Rd, Melksham, Wiltshire; 0333 222 4120; www.leekes.co.uk

The Garden Studio, 7 Gay St, Bath, 01225 696996; www.thecuratorshouse.co.uk

Rolls Interiors

Emily Day Interiors

WINDOWS

07809 834225 www.emilydayinteriors.co.uk

Dunsdon Road, West Littleton, Chippenham; 01225 89200; www.boniti.com

Henham Interiors

Capitol Carpets of Bath

Libby Carter & Co

120-122 Walcot Street, Bath ; 01225 333341; www.thecarpet.co.uk

Laura Campbell Design

12a Left Cabin Home Farm Farmington Gurney; 07446983383; www.lauracampbelldesigns.com

07891 238496; www.henham-interiors.com 14 Queen Square, Bath; 01225 971374; www.libbycarterandco.com

3, Edgar Buildings, Bath; 01225 340684; www.rollsinteriors.com Timber Windows of Clifton

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Radstock Rd, Midsomer Norton, Norton Radstock; 01761 412934 n www.hobbsmarbleandgranite.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 51

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SPRING INTO FRESH INTERIORS As the seasons change and the days grow brighter, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home at LEEKES MELKSHAM

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his spring, inspiration is in abundance at Leekes, where a wide range of furniture, home accessories and leading interior brands make it easy to update your living spaces for the season ahead.

Renowned for its impressive choice, Leekes brings together trusted names in home interiors alongside stylish in-house collections, offering something to suit every taste and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a new sofa, a beautifully crafted dining set, a comfortable bed or those finishing touches that bring a room together, there is plenty to explore throughout the store.

“LEEKES ALSO OFFERS A WIDE VARIETY OF HOME ACCESSORIES THAT MAKE REFRESHING YOUR INTERIORS SIMPLE AND ENJOYABLE”

Spring is an ideal moment to introduce lighter colours, softer textures and fresh design ideas into the home, and the latest collections reflect many of the season’s key trends. From contemporary designs with clean lines and calming neutral tones to more traditional pieces with timeless appeal, the selection offers inspiration for every type of interior.

The furniture range includes stylish sofas and armchairs designed with both comfort and practicality in mind, as well as dining tables, storage solutions and bedroom furniture that combine thoughtful design with everyday functionality. Bedroom collections feature everything from luxurious mattresses and upholstered bed frames to wardrobes and bedside tables, helping to create a relaxing retreat within your home.

Alongside larger furniture pieces, Leekes also offers a wide variety of home accessories that make refreshing your interiors simple and enjoyable. Cushions, throws, and decorative accents provide easy ways to introduce colour, texture and personality into a room.

Statement lighting, mirrors and carefully chosen decorative pieces can transform the atmosphere of a space and bring a fresh seasonal feel to your home.

NEW GARDEN FURNITURE NOW IN STORE With warmer days on the horizon, now is also the perfect time to start preparing outdoor spaces for the months ahead. Leekes has a fantastic range of new garden furniture now available in store, offering stylish and practical options for patios, terraces and gardens of all sizes.

From comfortable outdoor sofas and dining sets to loungers and compact bistro sets, the latest collections are designed to help you relax and entertain outdoors in style.

Durable materials, weather-resistant finishes and modern designs mean you can create an inviting outdoor area that feels like a natural extension of your home.

SEASONAL SALE SAVINGS TO ENJOY Alongside the inspiring collections, there are also seasonal sale savings to enjoy across selected ranges. With offers available until 4th May, it’s a great opportunity to invest in quality furniture, accessories or garden pieces while making the most of excellent value.

The friendly and knowledgeable team are always on hand to help guide you though the options, whether you’re choosing furniture, comparing materials or looking for ideas to refresh your home for spring.

This season, discover fresh ideas, stylish interiors and great savings – all waiting for you at Leekes. n

Leekes Melksham.

Beanacre Road, Melksham, Wiltshire SN12 8AG

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 53

BATH’S LEADING MARBLE AND GRANITE COMPANY FOR OVER 30 YEARS Specialists in quartz, granite and marble for kitchens and bathrooms Showroom open 8am–5pm Mon to Fri, Sat 9am–12.30pm Tel: 01761 412934 info@hobbsmarbleandgranite.co.uk www.hobbsmarbleandgranite.co.uk

Laura Campbell Designs creates bespoke window treatments and soft furnishings to your request, with a growing library of fabric books and product samples in her studio at Farrington’s Farm.

As an experienced seamstress producing traditionally made curtains, blinds, pelmets and cushions, and supplying tracks, poles, roller blinds, bamboo blinds, fabrics and more, Laura Campbell Designs has vast product knowledge of products with the highest of standards.

From start to finish, Laura will personally work with you to make sure your space looks just as you envisioned. Starting with a free local measuring service within 30 miles but with all locations considered and finishing with the option of excellent fillers installing your order.

Based in our workshop in Wiltshire, we provide a bespoke soft furnishings and interiors service to our clients.

From curtains and blinds, to lampshades and upholstery, we finish our handmade products to the highest quality to your exact specifications.

We believe every home tells a story and expresses a personal style, whether it be opulence combined with a timeless sophistication or a minimalist and contemporary look, Maison Histoire will guide you through our extensive selection of fabrics, trimmings, wallpapers and paints to help achieve your requirements.

Maison Histoire | Bespoke Interiors & Soft Furnishings Contact: info@maisonhistoire.co.uk | 07306607553 www.maisonhistoire.co.uk

12a Left Cabin Home Farm, Farrington Gurney BS396UB 07446983383; laura@lauracampbelldesigns.com

Perfect Rooms Interiors has been established since 2002, creating beautifully considered interiors for both residential and commercial clients. Over the past 23 years, we have completed a wide range of projects, delivering thoughtful, practical and stylish design solutions tailored to each brief.

We offer a carefully curated collection of soft furnishings, fabrics and wallpapers from leading designers including Cole & Son, Colefax and Fowler, Thibaut and Anna French.

Clients are warmly invited to visit our interior studios in Notton, Wiltshire, where you’ll find our in-house workroom and pattern book studio, along with our friendly, approachable team committed to every project we undertake.

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THE ARTS S N A P S H O T S O F B AT H ’ S C U LT U R A L L I F E

PAST PROJECTIONS The Museum of Bath at Work is hosting a special exhibition and a series of events including film screenings and talks, starting in May and continuing through to the autumn, to celebrate the history of Bath’s local cinema.

As part of the project, which will also culminate in a book to accompany the exhibition, researchers have met and interviewed those who know about the area’s picture house past, including former projectionist Harold Willis who worked at the Beau Nash cinema (now Komedia) in the mid to late 1970s.

Helping host is the Little Theatre, which will be screening the 1988 classic Cinema Paradiso on 17 May, and the Widcombe Social Club with a special showing of the 1956 musical film Rock Around the Clock starring Bill Haley and His Comets.

For more: Lights! Camera! Action! : 120 Years of Cinemas and Films in Bath curated by the Museum of Bath at Work starts 9 May; www.museumofbath.org

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PHOTO BY JOHNNY HATHAWAY

WHAT’S ON 21 March – 18 April

EXHIBITIONS Until 28 March

UNDER THE SAME SKY The Wilderness Art Collective and Sandra Higgins Art present the first of three exhibitions in the gallery space in Shires Yard, with this first one featuring pieces from 20 artists that reflect on the idea that all life on earth exists beneath the same sky. www.sandrahiggins.art

centuries, reflecting the spirit of the times, from entertainment and travel to political campaigns and war recruitment. Many of the displays feature links to the Bath area, including Bath Festivals posters from past years. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 10 May

DON MCCULLIN: BROKEN BEAUTY Marking the legendary photojournalist’s 90th birthday, this powerful exhibition features his war and travel imagery, as well as his most recent work including close studies of Roman sculptures.

The Holburne; www.holburne.org

ZANDRA RHODES: A LIFE IN PRINT Showcasing the spectacular array of Dame Zandra Rhodes’ vibrant screen-printed garments from the 1960s, 70s and 80s, displayed on dynamically posed vintage Adel Rootstein mannequins. Each one tells the fascinating story of the legendary designer’s signature prints and how she translated them into these stunning classic garments.

The Holburne; www.holburne.org

Until 10 May

Until 10 May

Until 4 May

POSTER POWER! This colourful exhibition showcases an exceptional range of British posters from the 19th and 20th

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HANDLE WITH CARE A look through the eyes of one of Britain’s most acclaimed contemporary visual artists,

The new activities at Westonbirt Arboretum will put a spring in the family’s step

Cornelia Parker, at the historic glass and found objects that inspire her work, which often centres around the themes of destruction, resurrection and reconfiguration.

The Gallery at No.1 Royal Crescent; www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk

Until 19 September

REIMAGININGS Shaped by her upbringing in London and her mixed Singaporean and British heritage, sculptural artist Hannah Lim works with materials including polymer clay, wood, and metal to create playful sculptures that explore mythology, history, and personal reflections on identity. The Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk

Until 21 June

KITH & KIN: THE QUILTS OF GEE’S BEND A celebration of the extraordinary work of a group of African American women from a remote river island community in Alabama, which embodies a 200-year

tradition of making quilts that hold both profound artistic and political significance. American Museum & Gardens; www.americanmuseum.org

9 – 26 April

BODYSCAPES A chance to see the exquisite work of Judith Brenner, a London based contemporary artist who specialises in figurative art and celebrates gesture, movement and the poetry of line. Her abstract paintings use the notion of alchemy to respond to her environment and life experiences on a search for strength and freedom. Roseberry Road Studios; www.roseberryroadstudios.com

18 – 19 April,

WALCOT TEXTILERS: A CELEBRATION OF PRINT The pop-up exhibition at 62 Pulteney Street features four local textile designers who met at Bath College: June Wagstaff, Charlotte Maxwell, Bee Burt, and Clare Walsh. Work is available to view and purchase. email: clpbrown@gmail.com

PRINT BY CL ARE WALSH

QUINAG, SAIL GHARBH, SCOTL AND BY SAM GARE

WHAT’S ON

clockwise from top left: Under

the Same Sky collection can be seen at the Sandra Higgins’ gallery in Shires Yard until 28 March; 18 – 19 April sees a celebration of Walcot Textiles; Is that a dagger they see before them when Macbeth comes to The Egg 28 – 30 March; Roseberry Road Studios is exhibiting the work of Judith Brenner starting 9 April

THEATRE / MOVIES 7 – 11 April

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOUR DREAMCOAT The award-winning amateur dramatic company, Bath Operatic and Dramatic Society, performs one of the most enduring musicals of all time about a boy and a coat that annoyed his brothers. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

18 – 19 April

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST A Bath Spa Theatrical Society production of the Oscar Wilde witty glittering classic that satirises social conventions, marriage and identity, and is now recognised as having a significant gay subtext. The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk

a one-night-only fundraising special with comics John Bishop, Ignacio Lopez, Dani Johns and Jarred Christmas, with all proceeds supporting the Live Comedy Association’s Stand Up & Give Fund. Komedia; www.komediabath.co.uk

1 April

JON UDRY Jon Udry brings his unique and award-winning combination of juggling and comedy to Bath.

The Rondo; www.rondotheatre.co.uk

17 April

RUSSELL HICKS The razor sharp American stand up comedian talks success, Instagram and life in the UK. It’s all about him, and this time it’s personal.

The Rondo; www.rondotheatre.co.uk

MUSIC 28 March

BATH COMEDY FESTIVAL More than 100 shows and well over 300 performances across the city for the next 4 weeks. Look out for Dead Ringers, Paul Merton & Suki Webster, Harry Enfield and Troy Hawke, plus a whole raft of new and rising talent. www.bathcomedy.com

BATH BACH CHOIR Bath Bach Choir’s spring concert at Christ Church, brings together two composers, JS Bach and Arvo Pärt, separated by centuries yet united in faith. Joining the choir are the Facade Ensemble, a chamber group of singers and instrumentalists that specialises in performing 20th-century music. www.bathbachchoir.org.uk

30 March

27 March

1 April

CLOSE TO TEARS Born from a deep passion for the legendary 1980s duo, this Tears

COMEDY

21 March – 19 April

HARRY ENFIELD AND NO CHUMS! From the vulgar Loadsamoney to the surly and explosive teenager Kevin, legendary satirical comedian Harry Enfield reflects on 40 glorious years of ‘arsing about.’

The Forum; wwwbathforum.co.uk LIVE COMEDY DAY Komedia Comedy Club presents

FAIRPORT CONVENTION Formed in 1967 (gosh, who knows where the time goes?) the legendary, influential and award-winning Fairport Convention bring their pioneering ‘electric-folk’ sound to Bath. The Forum; wwwbathforum.co.uk

10 April

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WHAT’S ON For Fears tribute band is dedicated to recreating their music with unparalleled authenticity. So good that apparently Curt Smith was spotted at one of their gigs last year.

Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org

CHILDREN 28 – 30 March

MACBETH Shakespeare’s exploration of the equivocation of evil is brought to life by Box Clever in this physically charged production. 12+. The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org

10 – 11 April

A THE AQUARIUM OF IMPOSSIBLE THINGS Performed by Theatre Royal Bath Theatre School. Set in a mysterious underwater world, the piece invites audiences to encounter extraordinary creatures with remarkable stories to tell. 6+ The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Until 31 May

SPRING AT WESTONBIRT A whole host of family-friendly events are launched to celebrate the new season at the beautiful arboretum, including the Room on the Broom trail, the Champion Trees Walk, and the family spring trail. www.forestryengland.uk

OTHER

Until 28 March

CURIOUS MINDS The ‘Festival to Ignite Ideas’ curated by Bath Arts Collective, returns for its third year with a bold and wide-ranging programme of 60 events to venues across Bath, including Cerys Matthews discussing Dylan Thomas’s Under Milk Wood, Don McCullin in conversation with Mariella Frostrup, and an All Stars Poetry Night with Jasmine Gardosi, Tyrone Lewis and Anthony Anaxagorou. www.curiousmindsfestival.co.uk

Farah stars in The Beekeeper of Aleppo

CULTURE CLUB with FARAH SAFFARI Farah Saffari makes her leading stage debut as Afra, who is fleeing war-torn Syria for the UK, in The Beekeeper of Aleppo, which comes to Theatre Royal Bath, 31 March – 4 April.

The last great film I saw Sentimental Value by Joachim Trier. The opening sequence, where their childhood house feels like a character, really got me thinking about how much our homes endure with us in them. How much life and soul sit in the walls, the floors, and the furniture.

A film I could watch over and over again Romeo + Juliet by Baz Luhrmann.

I’ve always been obsessed with the costumes, the performances, and the soundtrack. I’ll never get sick of it.

Best TV show ever The White Lotus, especially season two set in Italy. The overlapping dialogue is so fiery and absurd. Mike White is incredible at writing dark comedy.

My TV guilty pleasure The Kardashians. I do miss the earlier seasons when everything was less polished and much messier though. I’m tempted to rewatch from the start.

Juggler and comedian Jon Udry will be having a ball on 1 April at the Rondo Theatre

greatest live performances I’ve ever seen. It was definitely a massive influence in me pursuing acting.

The book I could happily re-read I love the way Sally Rooney savours every sentence. Normal People is such a poetic and complicated coming-of-age story.

I’m always drawn to books set in Ireland because they remind me of my family there and the little idiosyncrasies of that heritage.

My desert island disc Angeles by Elliott Smith. It’s used in quite a few movie soundtracks and captures that dreamlike quality I love about film, how it can transport you and wrap you in nostalgia.

The first song I remember hearing Killing Me Softly by the Fugees.

Me and my brother were obsessed with MTV, and we’d watch music video after music video during the summer holidays.

My karaoke go-to Believe by Cher. It’s such a fabulous crowd pleaser.

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

The play that changed my life I love Simon Stone’s adaptations. You can’t help but be enthralled by his dialogue style. Especially Yerma, which I saw at the Young Vic. It’s still one of the Farah is fan of the early years Kardashians

64 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Upcoming Events 1

Easter Sunday Raceday Sun 5 April | Bath Racecourse

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A Seriously Epic Lottie Brooks Event with Katie Kirby Sat 11 April | Bath Pavilion

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Bath Phil & Sir Stephen Hough Tue 14 April | The Forum

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The Four Seasons & The Lark Ascending by Candlelight

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Sat 25 April | Bath Abbey

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A Tale of Wool and Waywardness – Walking Tour April – October| Bradford on Avon

6

If Opera Festival 2026 Thu 6 – Sun 16 August | Church Farm, Wingfield

bathboxoffice.org.uk | 01225 463362 | @bathboxoffice The Forum, St James’s Parade, BA1 1UG | Open 10am – 5pm, Monday to Friday (closed Bank Holidays)

SPONSORED CONTENT

LIGHTING UP BATH ASSEMBLY ROOMS ONCE MORE BATH ASSEMBLY ROOMS’ historic chandeliers undergo careful conservation so their sparkle can continue to shine for another 250 years.

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ath Assembly Rooms was at the heart of Georgian society and has been lit by ten magnificent chandeliers since the day it opened. The priceless chandeliers have survived for over 250-years, being carefully stored away during World War II and then cleaned and maintained every six months to keep them sparkling ever since.

With the Assembly Rooms closed for restoration and the installation of a brand-new Georgian experience, the chandeliers have been taken off-site and sent to conservation studios for thorough inspection and repair – so they can be maintained and continue to hang in the Rooms for a further 250-years.

Our conservator caught up with the specialist glass studio that is carrying out the repairs to see how the work is progressing.

She said, “It was wonderful to see the chandeliers and the conservation work close up. Sadly, the condition of the chandeliers requires more repairs than we initially expected, so the process will take a little longer and of course cost us more money.”

Each arm, drip pan and drop on the chandeliers is being carefully examined and repairs made as needed. Looking at each element so closely, it’s easy to tell which pieces have undergone previous repairs.

Old repairs dating from the time of the

chandeliers’ construction have often been fused together (where the glass is reheated and fixed back together) making for a very sturdy repair, but some of the fixes that have happened in the last 50 years have used glues and resin that have yellowed over time.

In the glass conservation studio, the old, yellowing glue is being removed and replaced, to return the clear glass sparkle.

Some new parts need to be cast, to replace pieces that have broken off over the years. The chandeliers have been through a lot – originally designed to hold candles, they have been converted to gas and then electric – and some of these changes were quite brutal and may have caused some of the damage that’s now being repaired.

The Luminaries of Bath Assembly Rooms have been helping to fund the repairs to the chandeliers, and you can help too.

Join the Luminaries and support Bath Assembly Rooms – every supporter helps to contribute to the overall fundraising target of £3.2million. To become a Luminary, you don’t need to be a National Trust member, the only ask is for a donation of at least £250.

In return you get a 12-month subscription to the Luminaries, which includes regular behind the scenes updates, a welcome pack, two-tickets to the new experience when it reopens and your name(s) in the donor book.

All funds raised will go directly towards the project work supporting the restoration of the ten historic Georgian chandeliers, the installation of a Georgianinspired staircase and the fitting of a new oak floor.

Once complete, the Rooms will be brought back into the heart of the World Heritage City of Bath and serve as a thriving place for local communities and for visitors from far and wide.

To find out more about the Luminaries and to join, visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/luminaries.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 67

IFORD MANOR GARDENS

Re-opens 1st April.

Advanced booking essential.

DON’T MISS 5TH IFORD MANOR JAZZ FESTIVAL 18th – 21st June 2026.

Book all your tickets here: www.ifordmanor.co.uk

NEW: WALLED GARDEN TOURS

Iford Manor, Nr Bath, Wiltshire, BA15 2BA

Alternate Thursdays.

Booking essential.

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NOVEL IDEAS NIC BOTTOMLEY

F Nic has been ‘Russian’ around of late

“A cast that encompasses vodka-soused hermits and threatening villagers”

or some reason, three of the books I’ve devoured in the early part of this year have had a Russian connection of sorts. As far as I can tell, that’s all accidental – because I’ve rolled from one to another freely as I luxuriate in this early part of the year with its abundance of reading-friendly darkness … and rain.

Salt Water by Charles Simmons (Pushkin Press, £10.99) was originally written in 1998 but was reissued last year. It tells the tale of one intense 1960’s summer on the New England coast through the eyes of fifteenyear-old Michael who slips swiftly in love with Zina, five years his senior.

Hedonist cocktail hours on wrap-around porches combine with sensual ocean dips to create a coming-of-age story that always feels like it has a dark cloud or two hanging over it, even before they drift over and cover the sun of all that summery innocence.

“Great. But that doesn’t sound remotely Russian”, I hear you say. And fair enough. But despite the Gatsby-like American privilegegone-wrong feel, this is actually a retelling of Ivan Turgenev’s classic nineteenth-century Russian novel First Love, which is as good an early indicator as any for the angst and tangled web of relationships that you’ll find between its pages.

Lazar by Nelio Biedermann (Maclehose, £16.99) is a brand new multi-generational saga which, I realise immediately, makes it sound slow and languorous in a way that it absolutely is not.

Tearing through five decades of one aristocratic Hungarian family’s sinful, traumatic and dramatic history, this atmospheric novel is littered with so many twists and scandals that at times it’s difficult to know which unreliable narrator to get behind.

The overall impression is of a crumbling dynasty being destroyed simultaneously from outside and within. If the endless adultery, inadvisable liaisons and tortured souls don’t

bring the house of Lazar to its knees, then the end of the Habsburgs, the Second World War and Soviet occupation surely will.

Biedermann himself is the 22-year-old descendant of Hungarian nobility, and his talent for writing is precociously brilliant.

From the very first words, “The snow of the dying century still lay on the edge of the forest…” to the very first character description, “the translucent child with waterblue eyes”, the use of imagery and descriptive prose is masterful.

Whilst we’re on snow in forests, my final recent Russian-ish read so far this year has been The Owls of the Eastern Ice by Jonathan C. Slaght (Penguin, £14.99).

This remarkable blend of nature writing, extreme travelogue and memoir is best read in front of a fire with your warmest socks on. It recounts a series of arduous winters in the author’s life seeking out, observing and attempting to conserve the elusive Blakiston’s fish owl in Easternmost Siberia.

The extremes of temperature described are eye-watering, as are the author’s increasingly chilled responses (in every sense) to rescuing sleds or snowmobiles as they plunge through ice, or wading waste-high through freezing early spring torrents.

Despite a cast that encompasses vodkasoused hermits and threatening villagers with little care for strangers who are out to track the local birdlife, the real stars are the owls themselves. Magnificent creatures drifting in on silent wing and eventually, incredibly, finding themselves in Slaght’s careful hands for the fitting of GPS monitors that will follow their every movement so that their territory might be protected.

Sometimes, the books choose themselves and those are often the most enjoyable reads of all.

Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; www.mrbsemporium.com

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GET HITCHED WITHOUT A HITCH Plan your wedding like a pro Words by Elsie Chadwick

74 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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he love story usually goes like this: person meets person, they fall in love. One says, “Will you marry me?” The other says, “ Ooh, yes, please!” So far, so happily ever after. Except for the bit in the middle – the wedding bit. Now, are you talking a big, bold blow-the-lot budget or is the whole day going to hang off a sexy little shoestring? There’s the venue, the rings, the dresses, the guest list, the photographer…So here we are with a helpful list to get you from ‘we might’ to ‘we do’!

1

Nail the vibe Firstly, what style of wedding are you after? A boho mini-Glastonbury held in a field with just, oh, 250 of your closest friends? (Yes, we know people like that.) A super-slick and sophisticated event for 50 in an elegant town-house hotel?

Ten people in a room over a pub? As Tom Deller, hospitality and events manager for Bath’s Historic Venues, says, “One of the biggest trends we’re seeing is the desire for flexibility. Some couples dream of a lowkey, intimate gathering, others want a grand, glamorous celebration and many fall somewhere in between.” Sometimes the style is automatically dictated by the size of the guest list, but if you’re wedded (pun intended) to a certain look, it may be the other way round. Either way, once

you’ve decided on the size and style, choosing a venue becomes so much easier; more on page 84.

2

Set a budget, and stick to it You and your partner are not average, so ignore all those ‘average Brit spends £25k on a wedding’ stats. If you can and want to splash the cash then go for it, but if you can only afford a month’s salary, or would rather spend the money on a honeymoon

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inset: Focus on what’s important to you

says Lucy Ross of Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel; below: First Press Hospitality note the importance of communication

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“Don’t be shy about expressing what matters most to you” “I do!”

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Communication is key

Don’t be shy about asking questions or expressing what matters most to you; equally, be open to professional advice.

As James Twiner and Clara Howard of First Press Hospitality point out, “Conversations ensure expectations align on both sides and help avoid surprises later in the planning process. And don’t forget to share your wider supplier team with your caterer.

When planners, florists, marquee companies and venue managers are connected, the day flows seamlessly. Having worked across kitchens, sommelier training and front-of-house roles, we know that true luxury lies not just in exceptional food, but in calm, coordinated delivery.”

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PHOTO BY GREG SHINGLER; W W W.GREGSHINGLER.CO.UK

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PHOTO BY BET T Y BHANDARI PHOTOGR APH

WEDDINGS

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Choose your photographer You can make your own bunting, you can bake your own cake, but however handy your uncle may be with his Canon 5d, photos should always be entrusted to a professional, and a professional whose company you like. As Bath Historic Venue’s Tom Deller explains, “It’s no surprise that photography and videography remain top priorities for the couple – whether it’s capturing the Roman Baths glowing by torchlight or the

CHRIS AND K ATE’S WEDDING PHOTOGR APHED

BY TASHA PARK; W W W.TASHAPARK.CO.UK

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A champagne toast is better than a toaster!

76 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Capturing special moments remains a top priority for couples

Temple of Minerva nestled among lush greenery, couples want to know their photographer will know exactly what to do and how to create unforgettable imagery. For this reason, we work closely with creative professionals who know how to capture the magic of each space.”

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5 PHOTO BY BET T Y BHANDARI PHOTOGR APHY

or saving for a home, prioritise the bits you absolutely want and jettison the rest. We’re looking at you, wedding favours: no grown-up really needs a goody bag.

Tip: Unless you really want a flash motor and chauffeur to take you the few miles from your home to the venue, ask a friend or relative with a nice car to put a bow on it and drive you instead. You’ll save hundreds.

“When it comes to budgeting, it’s always worth focusing on the elements that will have the biggest impact on both you and your guests’ experience,” says Lucy Ross wedding and special events manager for Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel. “Investing in great food, atmosphere and entertainment is what truly brings the day to life and creates those unforgettable moments everyone will be talking about afterwards.”

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Stay focused Bath-based wedding photographer Betty Bhandari shares her top tips for on-the-day photography.

“Firstly, keep your gettingready room tidy. It’s where many key photos are taken, so a clear, uncluttered space makes for a much better backdrop. Do check beforehand with your priest, vicar or registrar about any photography restrictions, such as movement during the ceremony or use of flash.

PHOTO BY BET T Y BHANDARI PHOTOGR APHY

WEDDINGS

Every dog has his big day

7

Present tense

If you’re fine for toasters you may be wondering if it’s okay to ask for cash. Some guests feel this rather smacks of selling tickets.

“Would we then need a wristband or a stamp to get in?” is one tart comment we’ve heard. Asking for a contribution to a honeymoon is a softer option that’s popular with couples who already live together and already have a houseful of stuff.

Tip: If you don’t give any gift directives because you really are uncomfortable with asking for things, chances are guests will turn up with a toaster anyway, so consider suggesting charitable donations instead.

CHANTELLE & ABI AT THE ROMAN BATHS PHOTOGR APHED BY A TALL LONG LEGGED BIRD; W W W.ATALLLONGLEGGEDBIRD.COM

8

8

Say yes to the dress

Even the most excitable bride will calm down a bit when her dress is hanging in the wardrobe.

The concept of a white bridal gown is relatively new; until late Victorian times, brides simply wore their best frock. The pendulum has now started to swing back, with many modern brides opting for chic outfits in every colour in the rainbow with the very sensible aim of being able to wear them again. But if you want the big white wedding classic dress, go for it. You can consider passing it down the generations like an heirloom, or hit Vinted and sell it on.

Idea: Mitchy-matchy bridesmaids dresses rarely flatter all shapes. Consider allowing each bridesmaid to choose a dress in an agreed palette, or indeed in a rainbow array of pastels.

Look and feel fabulous all day

Ceremonies by Candlelight SAY ‘I DO’ BY CANDLELIGHT IN THE TIMELESS SETTING OF THE GUILDHALL, BATH.

Photo credits: Stu Tucker Photography, Dress: Perfect Day Bride, Suit: Gabucci Menswear, Hair & Makeup: Muah_PM, Flowers: Golden Valley Meadow, Models: Jared Campbell & Katie Victoria, Videography: Kristina Kostomarova, Venue: Bath and North East Somerset Registration Service

A truly magical setting, available exclusively from October to March.

T: 01225 477234 E: register_office@bathnes.gov.uk W: www.bathnes.gov.uk  @weddingsinbath Bath & North East Somerset Registration Service

WEDDINGS

10 PHOTO BY GREG SHINGLER; W W W.GREGSHINGLER.CO.UK

Put a ring on it Bath is full of independent jewellers offering a truly bespoke service for couples seeking something truly personal; many are able to convert existing jewellery into wedding rings. Wylde Jewellers is seeing couples place more value on meaning and wearability. “Many are reusing inherited family gold to create sentimental, cost-conscious

10

Rings

by Jody Cory

Looking the part with the help of Thomas Fortin

9

6 Consider your memories to inspire your food options

Avoid an overly tight schedule.

Weddings are full of unplanned emotional moments, and your photographer needs time to capture these naturally. If you’d like the classic-confetti shot, provide confetti for your guests.

Even better, dried rose petals are a beautiful, sustainable option that photograph well. For those all-important group shots, ask groomsmen or bridesmaids to help gather people and give them a list of names. This speeds things up so more time is spent taking photos, not finding guests.”

6

Food of love Some venues have their own dedicated caterers while others are happy for/ expect you to organise your own.

Look for those who prioritise food that’s local, seasonal and sustainable. “For your wedding meal, selecting a menu that reflects your tastes is a lovely way to add a personal touch to the day,” advises Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel’s Lucy Ross. “While offering multiple choices is always an option, a single menu for all guests can make planning much simpler and help everything run smoothly on the day itself.”

Make your food personal to your love story is the advice of James Twiner and Clara Howard of First Press Hospitality. They say, “Food carries memory.

Perhaps it’s the oysters you first tried and shared on your first holiday, a family roast that defines Sunday afternoons, or flavours inspired by a special trip abroad. We love working with couples to bring these meaningful details to life in elegant, considered ways – transforming nostalgia into a refined wedding breakfast or relaxed sharing feast that feels authentic and elevated.”

9

Suits you, sir (or indeed, madam)

10

Ring

by Wylde Jewellers

“Ultimately, wedding style should never feel generic. It should feel like a man stepping confidently into one of the most significant days of his life – considered and cohesive while retaining some individuality,” is the stirring advice from Neil Fortin and Andrew Thomas of menswear retailer Thomas Fortin. “Whether it’s a traditional morning suit, a formal tuxedo, or a two or three-piece suit, the next key decision is neckwear. Our selection of handmade ties feature a variety of patterns and colours to suit different tastes and characters. For black-tie, a self-tie bow tie remains the gold standard. We offer a pre-tied bow tie, which is simple to put on but can also be pulled undone for that after-party James Bond look!

These stunning Labowtique bow ties from London are made in both silk and velvet. We also produce patterned bow ties and cravats, which are all handmade here in Bath.”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 79

WEDDINGS rings, while grooms favour comfortable, low-profile white metal bands with brushed or textured finishes. For brides, diamond-set styles lead the way, with lab-grown stones being increasingly popular.” But a word to the wise – do think about time.

“A bespoke commission typically takes around six weeks from final design approval to completion, so allowing enough time ensures everything is ready and perfect for the big day.”

As goldsmith Jody Cory the rings aren’t a decision to be rushed: “Choosing wedding rings is a considered investment, and for couples who want

10 S.P. Green suggests a wedding day gift of a tennis bracelet – ace!

something individual, we work closely with them to refine proportions, profiles and finishes and offer everything from clean, classic gold and platinum styles to contemporary mixed metals and fully bespoke commissions.”

One thing to be aware of, you may already have a ring on

11 it – an engagement ring. Stephen Thomas, goldsmith and director of Marchbank Jewellery Design says,“The two rings need to fit together, and we advise that both rings should be made from the same metal and carat. This is so one ring will not wear down the other.”

11

Game, set and a lovely match For grooms looking to create an unforgettable moment, bridal jewellery gifts have become an increasingly popular tradition,” says Charlie DaltonBall of S.P. Green & Co jewellers.

“Diamond pendants and tennis bracelets remain timeless favourites, elegant pieces that can be worn on the wedding day and treasured long afterwards.”

12

Ring by Marchbank Jewellery Design

13

A bit of a do Unless your maid of honour is an absolute whizz with the heated tongs, consider booking a hair stylist to come to you on the day; it’s a lovely treat to share with the bridal party, too. “If bridal beauty in recent years was all about effortless boho texture, 2026 is leaning into something more refined – clean lines, soft glamour, and polished finishes that still feel wearable,” says Sarah Foster, hairstylist with Toni&Guy Bath. “Think modern French twist, half-up Hollywood waves, and the low simple bun.”

Go wild with the help of the florists from Wild Zinnia

12

Love in bloom

Local florists tell us that more and more couples are wanting natural, wild framing for their day. The Wild Zinnia,founded by farmer-florists Debs and Roz and specialises in intimate, small-scale luxury is seeing the British countryside take centre stage more and more on wedding days. “Instead of chasing a specific flower seen on Pinterest, people are looking at what’s naturally in bloom during their wedding month. Think dancing, field-grown Icelandic poppies in spring, or the decadent ruffles of dahlias in late summer. These stems haven’t been chemically preserved or flown across continents; they possess a vitality and fragrance that mass-produced flowers simply cannot replicate.”

80 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Sarah Foster of Toni&Guy Bath is seeing wedding day hair becoming more refined

13

WEDDINGS and helps you see if you’re truly aligned. If none of their looks feel like ‘you’, trust that instinct.”

And her other top tip is don’t stray too far from your everyday self: “If you never wear your hair up or a bold red lip, your wedding day isn’t the time or the place to start experimenting. You should feel like yourself, just more confident and beautiful.”

15

Make-up artist Leanna Biggs notes your wedding is not the time to start experimenting with new looks

14

14

organised with this than you first realise as makeup artist and hair stylist Leanna Biggs explains, “Everyone’s diary is different – some make-up take bookings two years ahead, others (like me) only the following calendar year – but to secure your first‑choice,

aim to contact them about 9 to 12 months before the day.” Also, her surprising advice is not take recommendations as gospel. “I always suggest they look closely at the website and social media,” says Leanna. “This shows a signature style and personality,

POSIE WEDDING DRESS BY MADE WITH LOVE AVAIL ABLE THROUGH COCO + K ATE; W W W.COCOANDK ATE.CO.UK

STEF & MARTIN AT THE TEMPLE OF MINERVA PHOTOGR APHED BY JOE HONEYANDS; W W W.JOEHONEYANDS.COM

… and definitely kiss and make up As with hair, as with hemlines, the less outré you go, the greater the likelihood that you won’t wince at your wedding photos in thirty years’ time.

But you might have to be more

That’s entertainment Whether your heart still beats for the loveballad wedding singer crooner or an all-out rock-out is your heart’s desire, there’s plenty of band and DJ options in this neck of the woods. Also consider interactive and bonding forms of entertainment – casinos, magicians, photobooths, silent discos, fairground rides and karaoke – or take it one step further with a marryoke – where guests mime to your chosen song on camera and the video is spliced to create a lip-sync memory.

15 Music is a given at the wedding – we all need to see that first dance – but consider what else might make you smile on the day

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 83

WEDDINGS Making it grand at Gainsborough Bath Spa

R ANIA AND DANI PHOTOGR APHED BY A TALL LONG LEGGED BIRD; W W W.ATALLLONGLEGGEDBIRD.COM

A very pretty Priston Mill

The romance of the Roman Baths

A PLACE OF LOVE

Bath and surrounds can offer every kind of wedding venue. From country-house hotels to cosy city centre gatherings, the choice is yours Whatley Manor Set in 12 acres of gardens, Whatley Manor is a gorgeous yet intimate getaway in the heart of the Cotswolds, comprising 23 unique and characterful rooms. They say: “At Whatley Manor, weddings unfold with a quiet beauty and strength.

Surrounded by flowing gardens, soft woodland tones, and the gentle stillness of the Cotswolds, our manor offers a setting where love feels rooted, authentic, and deeply connected

84 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

to nature. Whether you envision an intimate gathering or a fullmanor celebration, Whatley Manor offers an elegant canvas that allows your story to take centre stage.”

Gainsborough Bath Spa The Gainsborough Bath Spa offers an intimate, luxury wedding experience in the heart of one of England’s most romantic cities.

Housed in a beautifully restored Georgian building, it

combines historic charm with contemporary elegance and hosts up to 40 guests. As the only hotel in the world built directly above Bath’s natural thermal waters, it grants couples exclusive access to the renowned Spa Village Bath.

The Chapel and The Somerset Room provide characterful, elegant spaces ideal for ceremonies and private dining, with a dedicated events team on hand to manage all the details.

Priston Mill Priston Mill is licensed as a civil wedding venue with a variety of different and very beautiful locations including The Tythe Barn, The Watermill, and the oak pagoda in the Watermill garden for a more relaxed outdoor ceremony.

Roman Baths & Pump Room Couples seeking a truly memorable backdrop should consider Roman Baths & Pump Room. This unique, city centre Bath landmark offers intimate or grand dinners for 20 to 300 with exceptional catering by the award winning Searcys, and

inset: City centre vibes at the Guildhall; inset opposite: The elegance of the

Whatley Manor drawing room

music and dancing until 1am. All this plus those torchlit, steaming waters and 2,000 years of history.

The Guildhall Bath’s historic Guildhall is offering couples a quiet, affordable wedding option at its register office. Set in a Grade I listed Georgian and Victorian landmark, ceremonies are simple yet meaningful, with

CHRIS AND K ATE PHOTOGR APHED BY TASHA PARK PHOTOGR APHY; W W W.TASHAPARK.CO.UK

WEDDINGS A masterpiece of a marriage at Victoria Art Gallery

Floral beauty at the Temple of Minerva in Victoria Park’s Botanical Gardens

space for two witnesses. Nearby Parade Gardens and the Roman Baths provide picture-perfect backdrops for post-ceremony photos.

Bath Spa Hotel’s sophistication and style

Victoria Art Gallery The Victoria Art Gallery in central Bath is emerging as a distinctive wedding venue.

Available for private hire outside public hours, it offers a choice between the ornate Upper Gallery, showcasing works by Gainsborough, and contemporary ground-floor galleries, providing stylish backdrops for drinks receptions and civil ceremonies.

Temple of Minerva & Botanical Gardens Hidden within Bath Botanical Gardens, the Temple of Minerva is emerging as a sought-after intimate wedding venue. Licensed for seated civil ceremonies for up to 35 guests, numbers can rise to 100 with outdoor seating. With lawns for drinks, confetti and marquees, the site offers exclusive use, disabled access and sweeping garden views.

“Unique little venue, oozing with character and charm” 86 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Picture this at the charming Little Theatre

The Little Theatre Allow your wedding to take centre stage at this 1930s unique little venue, oozing with character and charm, and open to the most amazing ideas.

Red carpet, auditorium and projection and sound facilities; your white wedding gets the silver screen treatment!

FOR MORE: www.bathvenues.co.uk www.bettybhandari.com www.cocoandkate.co.uk www.firstpresshospitality.com www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk www.jodycory.co.uk www.leannabiggsmakeupandhair.com www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

www.nicholaswylde.com www.perfectdaybridal.net www.picturehouses.com www.pristonmill.co.uk www.spgreen.com www.thomasfortin.com www.toniandguy.com www.whatleymanor.com www.thewildzinnia.com

ENGAGEMENT AND WEDDING RINGS BESPOKE JEWELLERY DESIGNER COLLECTIONS REPAIRS AND REMODELLING

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Untamed beauty as unique as your love story.

At The Wild Zinnia, we believe your wedding flowers should feel alive. We don’t just design bouquets; we grow them. From our soil to your ceremony, our blooms are raised right here in the West Country—offering a seasonal, sustainable, and scented charm that only nature can provide.

Let us create something wild, whimsical, and entirely yours.

Now booking for 2026/27 www.thewildzinnia.com | @wildzinniabristol

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SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

ALL ABLAZE

The Year of the Fire Horse, which began on 17 February, is all about wearing red like you mean it. Swap a pop of apologetic pink for fullthrottle free-spirited scarlet. Wear sharp suits, billowing ballgowns, a full-length kimono – the only rule is go big and don’t go home.

Also, by fiercely harnessing the power of red this Lunar New Year, you can be sure of not only turning heads, but channelling some serious good fortune.

For more: www.dorothyhouse.org.uk

Photography: Egle Vasi; www.eglevasi.com Model: Olivia Hope Anthony MU: Chantelle Moody Styling: Anna Power and Marianne Cantelo Clothes sourced from Dorothy House charity shops

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 91

THE CAM, £135 Bold rectangular red frame crafted from cellulose acetate, featuring transparent linear temple reinforcement and durable five-point metal hinges for resilient everyday style.

From Jimmy Fairly Opticians, 4 Burton Street, Bath; www.jimmyfairly.co.uk

PUT IT ALL ON RED

For an auspicious start to this Lunar Year of The Horse, take a gamble on the colour of fire

PALAZZO PANTS BY EMIN + PAUL, WERE £159, NOW £50 Loose wide leg trousers in a fabulous lightweight billowing fabric with elasticated waistband and side pockets.

From Blue Women & Home at The Loft, 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; www.bluewomens clothing.co.uk

92 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

JASMINE ATELIER CUT-OUT PLEATED MAXI DRESS, £595 Crafted from a fluid satin weave with a weighty, sculptural quality, the delicate pleating on the bodice and cut-out details create a striking eveningready silhouette.

From Reiss, 34 Milsom Street, Bath; www.reiss.com

DEA KUDIBAL HELGA DEA KIMONO DRESS, £419 Relaxed fit full length silk dress in shades of pink and red, with a kimono style neckline, stand collar and threequarter length wide sleeves.

From Square, 12 New Bond Street. Bath; www.squarebath.uk

BANG BOOTS IN RED & LEOPARD, WERE £299, NOW £199 The upper features of this comfy ankle boot is unlined butter-soft leather with a half heart-shaped zebra cowhide back part.

From Chanii B, 9 Shires Yard, Bath; www.chaniibshoes.com

EDITOR’S CHOICE MERINO WOOL COAT, WAS £350, NOW £120 Crafted from 100 per cent responsibly sourced merino wool, this has a slightly oversized silhouette that can be cinched in at the waist with the tie belt.

From Aspiga, 7 Broad Street, Bath; www.aspiga.com JIB FAUX LEATHER SKIRT BY ESSENTIEL ANTWERP, £260 Designed with a fitted waistband, this midi-length lustrous finish skirt made from a butter-soft faux leather falls to a voluminous A-line shape accentuated by the inverted pleat details.

From Grace & Mabel, 3 George Street, Bath; www.graceandmabel.co.uk

ITALIAN LEATHER MONACO BAG, £75 Small, luxurious mock-croc bag with a chic bamboo handle and coordinated twist clasp.

From Portman, 28 Milsom Street, Bath; www.nickieportman.co.uk

CLASSIC RUBY TRILOGY RING, £1,775 An 18ct white gold 0.48ct ruby ring with two 0.05ct brilliant cut diamonds either side, creating a contemporary design with echoes of a classic.

From Wylde, 12 Northumberland Place, Bath; www.nicholaswylde.com

JOULES HOLLY KNITTED CREW NECK VEST, £40 Finished with a ribbed neck, hem and armholes, this versatile wardrobe staple works whatever the season.

From Wadswick Country Store, 1 Pulteney Bridge, Bath; www.wadswick.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 93

Marchbank Jewellery Design Ltd 6 Cheap Street . Frome . Somerset . BA11 1BN . 01373 455332 Member of National Association of Jewellers. Member of Guild of Valuers

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Photos by: Dave Watts

Photo by: Kilver Court and Gardens

SPRING INTO KILVER The famous Shepton Mallet mill has become an exciting one-stop destination for lifestyle, shopping and wellbeing

W

e have all come to know Kilver Court and Gardens as the home of Mulberry and TOAST, but a host of new tenants and a carefully considered re-mastering of the café and courtyard spaces mean that there are now many more reasons to visit the iconic Shepton Mallet destination.

Kilver Court and Gardens have long been a landmark for Shepton Mallet and the surrounding towns. Originally part of the town’s wool and brewing trades, the site was transformed in the late 19th century by MP for East Somerset, Ernest Jardine, who built a ‘model factory’ for lace-making, which also featured a boating lake, gardens, and allotments for his workers.

“THERE ARE NOW MORE REASONS THAN EVER TO VISIT KILVER COURT AND GARDENS”

Herbert Showering, of Babycham fame, purchased the site in the 1950s, picking up the concept of the workers’ village for the Brothers Cider factory opposite. The site was then expanded and developed by Roger Saul, founder of Mulberry, who was the custodian of Kilver for 25 years.

Today, Kilver Court and Gardens is owned again by the Showering family, who have set about blending the site’s rich history with modern retail and cultural events. Architect Nicholas Lee has masterplanned the site to bring the celebrated RHS gardens centre stage. They are now visible through the newly opened up courtyard and ballroom. Looking out onto the courtyard is the renovated café, a chic, light-filled space run by chef Nick Hampson, who serves fresh, seasonal brunch and lunch dishes, as well as all-day pastries from 9.30am to 4.30pm, using produce from the gardens wherever possible.

The Wiggly Shed, formerly the garden shop on the courtyard, has now been taken over by innovative garden and homewares brand Makers & Merchants, whose founders have an incredible design heritage, via the Conran Shop and Liberty. Travelling Europe to discover ceramicists, glassmakers and homeware designers, they bring a curated selection of their finds to Kilver, where they have established their first offline store. You’ll

also find their food and drink ranges here, with exquisite handmade Somerset chocolates, using herbs and flavours from their garden in Ash, as well as The Adventurous Blends of William Whistle range, a tea and coffee brand with character.

A second Makers & Merchants gallerystyle shop is now also located in the main Kilver Court building, adjacent to long-time collaborator Courthouse Interiors and TOAST Home. As Courthouse’s only offline store – the brand holds some 20,000 products online – it’s an exciting opportunity to see traditional British brands such as Mulberry Home and Sanderson alongside a joyfully eclectic selection of rugs, light fittings and tableware.

The contrast with Makers & Merchants’ and TOAST Home’s more minimalist aesthetics makes the shopping experience all the more delightful and with prices ranging from £10 for homewares to £6,000 for a sofa, there is something to suit all budgets and tastes.

New to Kilver too is Distil Coworking, a calm, contemporary environment that offers membership and pay as you go desk space for remote working, with free garden access and bookable meeting room and podcast booth as part of the deal. Yoga classes in the ballroom and a state-of-the-art reformer pilates studio, run by A&M Pilates, complete the wellbeing offer, making Kilver Court and Gardens a truly one-stop destination for live, work and play.

Visit the Kilver Court website for all upcoming events including the Spring Pop-Up 27-28 March, with independent brands and makers showcasing fashion, food and flowers. n

Open Monday – Sunday, 9.30am – 4.30pm Kilver Court, Kilver Street, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 5NF; www.kilvercourt.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 97

MARLBOROUGH TAVERN

RACHEL IFANS discovers a blend of history and modernity, along with fantastic food at the Bath pub favourite

A

s a firm city favourite that every Bathonian and his cockerpoo has dined at 100 times over that timespan, I wondered what I would find to write about when we recently visited as a family. Because the Marlborough Tavern is not new, or made over, or launching a seasonal menu. But it has been proven time and again to be a solid choice if you’re out for a date, a family farewell (that’s us), entertaining friends from London, or just after a spritzer in its sunny walled garden. It’s existed as a pub in that spot for 200 years now so, like the barman said, rather modestly, it’s something of a Bath institution.

Although the building is now owned by St Austell, the Marlborough Tavern is run as a separate business, with very much its own identity and history embedded in.

I went on a Monday evening, the last supper before my baby went off travelling for four months. Don’t call the authorities, he’s an 18-year-old baby on a gap year… but I was feeling tense about his imminent departure.

Could the Marlborough salve parental trepidation, fuel teenage excitement and nourish our emotional souls?

And all of this on a Monday evening?

Well, the answer was yes. As soon as we pushed the door open, my heart lifted. There were people – and lots of them – clustered at tables in the dining area that wraps like a hug around the ample bar. There were candles making the place feel special, beautiful art on the walls

98 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

“The Cornish sole was sliding off the bone in satisfyingly big pieces”

and welcoming smiles from faces behind the bar.

Thanks to a recommendation from our waiter, our first shared starter was the sriracha fried chicken with maple baconnaise. Yes, you heard me, ‘baconnaise’… even though it sounds like it comes from the all-you-caneat salad trolley at Pizza Hut circa 1990, it was actually delicious. The mayo was speckled with real bacon bits that exploded with maple smoky goodness. Once all the tender and delicious breadcrumbed chicken had been dipped and double-dipped (hey, we’re family – it’s okay).

I actually stuck my finger in the bowl wiped it around for the last bits. The horrified looks on my kids’ faces told me that was gross but for me it was 100 per cent worth it.

Our second starter was salt and pepper squid with lemon and garlic aioli. In a way that quickly became a pattern throughout our meal at the Marlborough Tavern, it scored highly on both quality of ingredients as well as the skill of the chef cooking it to perfection. Light tasty octopus in a light tasty batter.

For our mains, my husband and I both followed the recommendation of the waiter again; he chose the Cornish sole with brown butter capers, cockles, crushed potatoes and wild garlic, and I went for the 8oz hanger steak, with garlic and herb butter, fries and peppercorn sauce.

The hanger is a cut from the underbelly of the cow and is famed for its tastiness. Mine came perfectly seared and bloody on the inside and sliced into seven oozy

RESTAURANT

forkfuls that were easy to alternate with chips dipped in the peppercorn sauce.

I’m not exaggerating when I say it was in my top-three steak-and-chips in living memory. And that includes the ones in France!

My husband’s fish dish went down equally well.

It was so beautifully presented that there was no way it was not going to be delicious. It was scattered with a generous number of cockles, and the combination of crushed potatoes and wild garlic promised a bit of extra ballast if the fish wasn’t quite enough. As it was, the Cornish sole was perfectly cooked, sliding off the bone in satisfyingly big pieces – and of course, marrying perfectly with the brown butter capers – and the cockles were plump, packed with umami and so delicious they nearly stole the show.

The kids were delighted with their MT Burgers; a 6oz beef patty topped with Monterrey Jack cheese, pickles and house sauce and accompanied by chips and house slaw. Again, the combination of flavours was perfectly on point. No one was dragging pickles out of the bun or trying to scrape excessive cheese off the burger, and they both thought the house sauce lifted the overall taste rather than fighting for attention. The Marlborough Tavern also does good fries. Falling bang in the middle of thick and thin, with featherlight, perfectly cooked potato that follows a moderately crunchy, salty outer, they aren’t overly greasy either.

Valiant attempts were made with shared puddings: one a beautifully rich and gooey chocolate brownie served with clotted cream ice cream and a chocolate shard, and the other a sticky toffee pudding that came with irresistible-but-potentially-dentally-hazardous chunks of homemade honeycomb. After the first mouthful, I claimed I wouldn’t go back for more, but somehow I managed to eat it all in the end, even though my molars and sugar levels were crying out for mercy.

While we’d eaten and chatted, tables had emptied and filled again with the ease and confidence of a Friday nighter. If you’re looking for somewhere that feels like a reminder of all the best bits of Bath to a young adventurer you’d like to return back home as soon as possible, the Marlborough Tavern is the place to go.

It’s got history and modernity, class and informality, fantastic food – and a great atmosphere. Even on a Monday night. So hurry home little one! n

DINING DETAILS Marlborough Tavern, 35 Marlborough Buildings, Bath BA1 2LY. tel: 01225 423731; www.marlborough-tavern.com Opening hours Monday to Saturday 11.30am – 11pm (Mon-Sat), Sunday 11.30am –10pm Owned by Justin Sleath Head chef Filip Tencer, who grew up in Slovakia where he attended culinary school. Arriving in the Uk in 2012 he joined the team at The Royal Crescent working under head chef David Campbell. He rose up the ranks to Sous chef and then joined The Marlborough Tavern as head chef in 2022.

Marlborough’s history It’s been a pub for over 200 years. In 2006 it received a new lease of life under new owners Justin Sleath and Joe Cussens. They turned it from a run-down boozer into the pub you see today, one that sits proudly at the heart of Bath’s vibrant foodie scene. The building was sold to St Austell in 2023 (as one part of The Bath Pub Co sale) but Justin retained stewardship and continues to run the business, retaining the Marlborough’s independent status.

The aesthetics Both the interior and exterior of the pub have undergone recent refurbishment. The interior design was inspired by Bristol based design co Fable & Form. The artwork is curated by Malachi Bogdanov of Bath Contemporary Arts Fair and is available to purchase straight off the walls.

Food served Decent, elevated gastro-style and award winning at that. The pub is a proud holder of 2 AA Rosettes for over 15 years.

Covers 70 Outdoor space The walled courtyard garden is perfect for a pint, a spritzer, and a couple of Tavern tacos to help soak up the sunshine.

Recommendations They do a cracking Sunday roasts and the quality aged steaks are from a local butcher.

Prices Starters cost between: £8 - £12, mains cost between: £18 - £28, desserts cost between: £8.50 Disability access Yes Atmosphere Heart of a pub with the soul of a restaurant

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 99

FRESH THINKING OVER A FINE LUNCH

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Wednesday 15 April

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BE PA RT OF T HE C ONVE R SATI ON

FOOD AND DRINK Charlie grew up on a farm; inset: Hop Pole owners Hannah Randall and Charlie Rawlings have just opened Scrumpet

TRULY SCRUMPET The team behind Limpley Stoke’s acclaimed

Hop Pole Inn have just opened Scrumpet, a new butcher’s shop and kitchen in the heart of Bradford on Avon. Owners Charlie Rawlings and Hannah Randall are expanding the farm-tofork ethos that has seen the Hop Pole Inn ranked 29th in Britain by the Good Food Guide and listed in The Times’ Top 10 Pubs – a remarkable feat for a rural, community-owned pub.

Scrumpet, based in The Shambles, brings high-quality, ethically sourced meat and a traditional butchery experience back to the town, and is Bradford on Avon’s only butcher, offering grass-fed beef and lamb, free-range chicken and pork, game and other locally sourced meats from trusted Wiltshire farms.

For Charlie, who grew up on nearby Great Ashley Farm, the project is rooted in family farming heritage and a commitment to British agriculture, animal welfare and sustainability. “Scrumpet is a natural extension of what we’ve built at the Hop Pole,” he says. “It’s about connecting people back to where their food comes from, supporting brilliant local farmers and creating a place that feels part of the fabric of the town.”

For more: Instagram @scrumpetboa

PHOTO BY ANDREW MONTGOMERY

ON THE HOUSE Patrick Williams, founder of Berdoulat, the

Bath-based architectural and interior design practice with a shop on Margarets Buildings, will be at Topping & Company Booksellers on 30 April to talk about his new book The House Rules. Along with sharing his early style influences from growing up in France, Patrick writes about his love of good food. To help celebrate this, the evening will feature the book’s recipe known as The Truth.

In the book, Patrick reveals the importance of this dish: “We would all be summoned à table and my mother, a culinary wizard, would serve lunch. She would conjure the most delicious meals from the humblest ingredients…My favourite dish of all, consumed with almost religious regularity, was known as The Truth: a coil of local sausage, bought from the butcher by the metre, cooked over the fire in winter or on the barbecue in the summer, and accompanied by a hot potato salad…

“In the UK it’s tricky to buy sausage in a continuous coil.

We order ours from the butcher, who is happy to oblige.

Ideally, it’s fairly coarse and garlicky.”

For more: www.toppingbooks.co.uk | www.berdoulat.co.uk right: The Truth reveals

itself to be a coiled sausage dish; inset: Patrick will be at Topping on 30 April to talk about his new book The House Rules

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The Sweetpea Kitchen, Bradford on Avon.

“Local. Handmade. Family-run.

Just good food, the way we’ve always made it.”

Brunch, Lunch, Afternoon Tea and much more, we’ve got you covered!

Did you know? We offer exclusive use of the Sweetpea kitchen.

From wedding receptions to business events. With over 20 years experience there’s not an event we haven’t done.

Tel: 01225 698504 www.sweetpeakitchen.co.uk

A hidden-away venue above the streets of Bath, The Drawing Rooms is a 3-storey Georgian Townhouse offering a decadent home from home for those looking for a friendly grown-up crowd- with great cocktails, wine & legendary live piano sessions.

DECADENT COCKTAILS LIVE PIANO FRI & SAT COCKTAIL MASTERCLASSES KARAOKE ROOM PRIVATE HIRE ROOMS The Drawing Rooms is open Wednesday – Saturday evenings until late and we welcome locals and visitors alike. We recommend prior booking for our busy weekend piano bar at tdrbath.club/bookings

UPPER FLOORS, BEAU NASH HOUSE, 19 UNION PASSAGE, BATH, BA1 1RD

01225 580552 hello@thedrawingrooms.co www.thedrawingrooms.co Thu 6pm to 11pm | Fri & Sat 5pm to late  THEDRAWINGROOMSBATH

RARE FINDS How the Bath Greenhouse is creating a sanctuary for threatened flower species Words by Nick Woodhouse Photos by The Bath Greenhouse

T

his spring, the Bath Greenhouse opens its gates once again to visitors as part of the National Garden Scheme. On the first Sunday of May, Maria Heffer and her husband Jeremy will welcome visitors to their two-acre gardens at the foot of Solsbury Hill, a southfacing plot enjoying spectacular views along the Limpley Stoke valley.

Home to five cut flower gardens, terraced lawns, a box parterre, an orchard and meadow flowers, the gardens also feature a National Plant Collection of Geum coccinea and Geum rivale.

Awarded this status in 2024, the collection extends to a growing number of cultivars of each variety. Whilst both thrive in moist, well-drained soil, these two members of the rose family are distinctly different. Geum rivale is native to Europe, Central Asia and parts of North America and typically features tall stems, topped with nodding flower heads in tones of apricot, cream or pink. Geum coccinea conversely has shorter stems and upward-facing flowers, in red or orange, and is native to a more confined habitat; one stretching northwards from Turkey, up into the Balkans.

Last year saw Maria and Jeremy head to RHS Chelsea to showcase a number of their species geums, alongside several more recently introduced commercial cultivars.

They would form part of the display from Plant Heritage, the country’s foremost charity for the conservation of cultivated plants, which is returning to the show this year with its very first show garden.

Thanks to sponsorship from grant-giving charity Project Giving Back, the Missing Collector Garden at RHS Chelsea comes at

a pivotal moment for plant conservation. The charity’s Threatened Plants Programme has found that gardeners can now buy fewer than half of the cultivated plants once grown in the UK and Ireland. The show garden will be designed by the newly formed Planting Design Collective, a trio of designers who met whilst studying at the London College of Garden Design.

It will be packed with plants representing the charity’s work and aims to inspire a new wave of National Collection Holders and Plant Guardians, and to shine a light on both the ‘living libraries’ of plants already safeguarded within National Plant Collections – alongside those plants still in need of a ‘missing collector’ to step forward.

It is this desire to help conserve for future generations, and to share learnt knowledge, that has been the backbone of Maria’s mission at the Bath Greenhouse. The gardens are currently home to over a hundred Geum cultivars, the majority of which are of hybrid origin. Maria’s search, however, continues for five plants still missing from the collection, namely Geum coccineum Ann, Geum rivale Salmon Bells, Geum rivale Nana and Geum rivale Leonard’s Double.

Alongside the collection, the business also specialises in farming its own seasonal and naturally growing flowers. Combining passion with sustainability, Maria has spent the last 15 years developing five cutting gardens and a small meadow, producing a mix of annuals, biennials and perennials, all used in the workshops that take place on-site.

Running throughout the growing season, the workshops include those on flower arranging, hand-tied bouquets, wreath-making, and growing your very own cut flower patch.

Maria cites her mother, an avid gardener, as the initial catalyst for her passion for growing flowers. Initially putting this

“This desire to help conserve for future generations… has been the backbone of Maria’s mission”

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passion to one side to pursue a career in corporate education and to raise a family, Maria finally decided to take a sabbatical to study horticulture and floristry – and hasn’t looked back since. With the steadfast support of husband Jeremy, a former chartered engineer, Maria set up the business from a small garden greenhouse before branching out into the two-acre site we see today. Here you’ll spot nigella, delphiniums, dahlias and ammobium sitting alongside grasses such as Briza media. Thanks to its tendency to quiver in the gentle summer breeze, this perennial is known more commonly as quaking grass, its heart-shaped flowerheads hanging daintily from its delicate stems.

Whilst the Bath Greenhouse’s main business is workshops, it also sells to local florists and, over the main growing season, to the public. To ensure nothing is wasted, unused flowers are cut and dried for use throughout the year. This eye to sustainability is key to the business, one that aims to reduce the air miles so often associated with global flower transport, to avoid the use of harmful fertilisers and pesticides, and to provide invaluable habitats for pollinators and wildlife alike.

The business also enjoys a pleasing crossover between its flower farm and its National Collection status. For geums themselves also make superb cut flowers, particularly those with long slender stems and delicate flowerheads. Particular go-to favourites for Maria are Geum rivale Deep Rose and Geum rivale Marika. Here’s hoping that one day, Maria will also be able to add those elusive, missing varieties to this very special collection.

For more: The Bath Greenhouse, Court View, Bath BA1 7HB; www.thebathgreenhouse.com

Nick Woodhouse is the codirector of interior and garden design company Woodhouse and Law at 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

GARDENS

opposite page: The Bath Greenhouse specialises in seasonal and naturally growing

flowers; this page, clockwise from top left: Maria Heffer in the two-acre gardens found near Solsbury Hill; the Geum rivale Deep Rose; with the support of husband Jeremy, Maria set up the business starting out as a small garden greenhouse; the Jude the Obscure Rosa; the Geum rivale Marika pictured at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show; drying bunches of eucalyptus and lunaria

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PROPERTY

ART WORK BY 6A ARCHITECTS; W W W.6A.CO.UK

P L A C E S T O L I V E , W O R K A N D P L AY

Visualisation of the Fashion Museum Bath and the new public square transformation

Fashion museum

The extra funding is helping the B&NES project evolve

STYLE REVIVAL Council welcomes new £1.7m funding for Fashion Museum Bath and Milsom Quarter Bath & North East Somerset Council’s plans to develop the Fashion Museum Bath in its new home have taken a step forward with £1.745m in grant funding from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority.

The Combined Authority approved the Outline Business Case on 30 January, awarding up to £1.745m from its investment fund – £1.256m in 2026/27 and £489k in 2027/28. This builds on an earlier £1.5m feasibility investment in 2024/25 for the flagship project, with construction expected to begin in 2027, ahead of a target opening date of December 2030.

A new public square will be created in front of the Grade II-listed Old Post Office, the newly-located museum and St Michael’s Church.

Currently dominated by vehicle traffic, the area will be redesigned as an attractive civic space with improved pedestrian and cyclist routes, space for community events, and new green landscaping.

Councillor Kevin Guy, leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council says, “The project will help attract further investment into the region, generate new employment opportunities, and strengthen the tourism and cultural sectors across the west of England. But this project

is so much more than a UK-leading museum – it’s a key component of the Milsom Quarter Masterplan, which is our plan for cultureled regeneration in this part of the city. It’s particularly pleasing that this grant will specifically contribute to creating a new public square, improved traffic flow and make the space more attractive for everyone.”

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk | www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

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PROPERTY NEWS Wadswick Green’s photovoltaic panels

Renewable energy

SOLAR SAVINGS

Rangeford Villages has installed photovoltaic (PV) panels on the Wadswick Green pavilion roof in Corsham, cutting carbon emissions and energy costs.

The project, funded from existing reserves, is expected to reduce the pavilion’s energy bills by around 20 per cent and lower carbon emissions by approximately 20 tonnes of CO₂ a year. It follows a site assessment by independent specialists Vision Zero Consult, which identified the pavilion roof as the most efficient location.

Chief executive Howard Nankivell says, “This project reflects our continued focus on reducing our environmental impact while making sensible, long-term investments that benefit our villages. By installing solar PV at Wadswick Green, we are lowering carbon emissions, reducing energy costs and taking another practical step towards a more sustainable future.”

For more: www.rangefordvillages.co.uk

Interiors

Quinque is on the Porta development site

BASEMENT BEAUTY

A new Bath deVOL kitchen

The cupboards are finished in Wilkes Geeen

A Georgian terraced house in Bath has unveiled a new basement kitchen by deVOL. The compact space features a run of real Shaker cupboards in the company’s new Wilkes Green, finished with brass handles and warmed by oak worktops. A freestanding heirloom dairy table with Carrara marble top introduces a softer, ‘chef ’s table’ feel, encouraging socialising in the heart of the room. A single shelf and brass hanging rail run the length of the back wall, allowing simple, open display. Newly installed curved tiles, inspired by original fragments discovered on site, reconnect the home with its architectural past.

For more: www.devolkitchens.co.uk

New home

ECO CITY HAVEN

A brand new city centre five-bedroom, four-bathroom family home has come onto the market. Quinque, on the Porta development site on London Road West, is marketed by StrongVox, and priced at £1.2million.

Blending contemporary design with luxury living across 2,276 sq ft, it offers three parking spaces and an EV charge point. The home is also triple-glazed, has underfloor heating, PV solar panels, battery storage, and an EPC A rating, which underlines its energyefficient credentials.

For more: www.strongvox.co.uk The home is triple-glazed and has underfloor heating

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PROPERTY SHOWCASE

A LITTLE PALACE Explore a beautiful city centre family house right in the heart of the majestic Queen Square

T

his is a beauty of a home that would have worked just as well in the Regencycore Bridgerton special over on page 30, as it does here on the property pages.

Set back from a small green at the top corner of historic Queen Square, 1 Queens Parade occupies an enviable position. As the end house in a Georgian terrace of multi‑storey townhouses, it enjoys an unusual sense of space and privacy for such a central address, its pale, classically proportioned façade overlooking cobbles and trees rather than traffic. A raised basement sits behind wrought‑iron railings, with the ground floor, two main upper floors and attic level above, arranged in an elegant grid of sash windows that subtly decrease in height – a hallmark of Georgian design. The setting and façade together hint at the house’s character: part country retreat, part classic city townhouse.

To one side, a secure, cobbled parking area sits behind gates, with ample space for several cars – a rare luxury in this part of the city centre. From here, there is direct access into the house and garden, reinforcing

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By John Mather

“Its pale, classically proportioned façade overlooking cobbles and trees rather than traffic”

the easy, informal flow that defines the property.

The pedimented front doorway opens into a welcoming reception hall, where high ceilings and Georgian proportions draw you into a large dining room, suited to gatherings both intimate and grand.

Decorative plasterwork and tall sash windows emphasise the height and elegance of the space.

Double doors lead into the substantial kitchen/ family room, where cooking, eating and relaxing sit happily together. This heart‑of‑the‑home space enjoys direct access to, and views over, the garden and terrace. In warmer months, doors can be opened so that life naturally spills outside. The principal rooms are finished in a soft, heritage‑inspired palette of pale and sage greens against crisp white woodwork, highlighting period details while maintaining a calm, contemporary feel.

On the first floor, a superb drawing room overlooks the leafy west‑facing garden through a striking triple‑light Venetian window. A high ceiling, ornamental rose and intricate cornice give the room real presence, while a large open fireplace and built‑in

bookcases add warmth and sophistication.

Double doors connect to a charming library at the front of the house, ideal for reading, working or quiet evenings.

A small ancillary room off the drawing room is fitted as a discreet kitchenette, allowing drinks and light refreshments to be prepared without trips to the main kitchen.

The principal bedroom suite occupies the next floor, generously proportioned and self‑contained, with tall windows and high ceilings echoing the gracious reception rooms below. A practical laundry room, walk‑in wardrobe and well‑appointed bathroom with shower are all arranged around this main bedroom.

Above, the top floor provides three further bedrooms and a bathroom, ideal for family, guests or use as studies and hobby rooms. Dormer windows set into the mansard‑style roof ensure these rooms are filled with natural light.

The lower ground floor has its own access from the front steps and inner courtyard and can readily function as a separate flat if desired – perfect for

HOUSE NUMBERS Guide price

£3.5million

Bedrooms

5

Bathrooms

3

Wine cellar

1

Library

1

Garden studio

2

For more Carter Jonas, 5-6 Wood Street, Bath; www.carterjonas.co.uk

guests, older children, or a home office suite.

A living room/bedroom sits to the front, leading through to a kitchen/utility room and a bathroom. Two front storage vaults beneath the pavement, a large store room and a wine cellar add to the practical appeal.

Outside, traditional railings and classic street furniture contribute to the historic atmosphere of Queen Square. The level, west‑facing garden is quiet and notably private, backing directly onto Royal Victoria Park and enclosed by high stone walls.

The kitchen opens onto a paved terrace for al fresco suppers, which gives way to a neat lawn bordered by raised beds and mature trees. In the far corner, a garden studio with light and power provides an all‑weather escape for work or creativity.

In combining generous proportions and green outlook with the elegance and convenience of a central Georgian townhouse, 1 Queens Parade offers a rare proposition: a true family home with the best of city and sanctuary, just a few steps from the unique majesty of Queen Square.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 111

DISCOVER BESPOKE CUSTOM RENEWABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS

SULIS

ELECTRICAL SERVICES LTD

CONTACT US ON: 01225 413431, OR: HELLO@SULIS-ELECTRICAL.CO.UK | WWW.SULIS-ELECTRICAL.CO.UK

NETWORK SPONSORED CONTENT

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES GUIDE 2026

EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS INTO LOCAL BUSINESSES

THE CITY AT WORK BUSINESS SERVICES / FINANCE / L AW / PROPER T Y

MEET THE PROFESSIONALS MAKING THE CITY BUZZ

SPONSORED CONTENT LAW AWDRY LAW

Lucy Jones, Family Law Solicitor

“THERE IS A FRIENDLY FEEL WORKING IN BATH.”

What makes working in Bath special?

It is a beautiful World Heritage City with a thriving legal community. Our offices are right in the heart of the centre, just off of Queens Square. The Georgian building I work in has been restored to the highest quality and has stunning original features which makes working in Bath feel so special.

There is a friendly feel working in Bath and all of the solicitors get on well with one another and work collaboratively. I also live in Bath and have the pleasure of walking to work.

Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement?

Since joining Awdry Law, I’ve been impressed by the firm’s strong commitment to community and charity work.

Our main charity partner is Julia’s House Children’s Hospice, which provides essential end‑of‑life care. The team has supported them in a variety of ways, from volunteering and dress‑down days to fundraising events, including a recent initiative that raised over £20,000. Some of the team also completed a 38‑mile walk from our Marlborough office to our new

Bath office to help raise further awareness and funds. Alongside this, we have a Sustainable Development Group focused on five key improvement goals.

For example, to support the “No Poverty” goal, teams have volunteered at local breakfast charities, and for “Climate Action” we’ve organised canal clean‑ups, with colleagues collecting litter both on foot and from boats.

What are going to be the topical issues for the sector in 2026?

There is much more focus now on divorcing amicably and seeking to resolve matters away from Court. I am a member of the Bath Resolution committee which is a community of family justice professionals who work with families and individuals to resolve issues in a constructive way. ‘Resolution Together’ is a huge milestone within family law and the family law department have actively sought to raise awareness within the community. This way of working is where one solicitor acts for the couple who are looking to separate, on a neutral basis. The couple are provided with support and legal advice to help them reach an agreement that works for them both. This enables couples to focus on their family and reach and amicable resolution which is also cost-effective. This way of working can help to address all issues that arise further to separation such as children and financial matters. “Resolution Together’ is a way of working that we offer to our Bath clients, if appropriate; clients can work towards a more rational and considered approach, which can also enable them feel empowered.

For more: 01225 417111, www.awdry.law

BATTENS SOLICITORS LIMITED Battens is a multi-specialist law firm, and our team of lawyers provide outstanding legal advice on a wide range of issues. At Battens we focus on you, the client, to find the best legal solution. With over 300 years’ experience, we are straight-talking and pragmatic.

Battens Solicitors employs over 160 employees across 7 offices within Somerset and Dorset, including our Bath office.

What makes working in Bath special?

We are very proud of the work our Bath team are doing and our increased presence in the city. This year marks our eighth year in Bath, during which time we have increased the number of lawyers working from the office. We are going from strength to strength in offering excellent service to clients.

It never stops amazing us

how vibrant and close-knit the business community is.

Clients, colleagues and other professionals become friends, allowing for the development of long-term relationships and a collaborative approach to client matters.

Whilst Bath is a city steeped in history, we are delighted to be a part of its future and its thriving business community.

Describe the firm’s offices?

The Battens office is a hub of activity, the Bath team has grown again over the last 12 months with additional services now available from our Bath office, including Wills and Estate Administration.

Many people from our other offices enjoy visiting our Bath office, bringing their expertise and enriching the offering for our clients.

For more: 0800 652 8373, www.battens.co.uk

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SPONSORED CONTENT GOUGHS SOLICITORS

Amber Ballans, Employment Solicitor

BLB SOLICITORS

Caroline Entwistle, Head of Residential and Commercial Property Why is Bath so important to you?

I have always worked in Bath and feel genuinely connected to the city. Its blend of heritage, ambition and entrepreneurial spirit makes it a special place to build a career. The relationships you form here – with clients and other professionals – really matter, and I cannot imagine working anywhere else.

Tell us a little about the firm?

With strong roots in Bath and West Wiltshire stretching back more than 60 years, we are a full-service law firm with a 98-strong team. We provide a comprehensive range of legal services, from transactional and advisory work to dispute resolution, for individuals and businesses. Clients particularly value our expertise in Residential and Commercial Property, Family Law, Lifetime Planning and Wills, and Legal Services for Business.

“I HAVE ALWAYS WORKED IN BATH AND FEEL CONNECTED TO THE CITY”

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Describe life at the firm?

Although I have been with the firm for seven years, I still feel like a relative newbie compared to some colleagues.

From day one, I was struck by its people-first culture and commitment to wellbeing and career development. Above all, we prioritise helping colleagues maintain a healthy work/life balance within a genuinely supportive environment.

What’s the best part about working in Bath’s property sector?

What stands out is the diversity of the market. You might be advising on a Georgian townhouse and a modern development on the same day, with steady demand from local buyers and those relocating.

Many businesses, particularly in central Bath, operate from historic buildings, which adds another layer to commercial transactions. It is a sector where clear communication and practical problem-solving genuinely make a difference, and no two matters are the same.

For more: BLB Solicitors, 1 Edgar Buildings George Street, Bath BA1 2DU, 01225 462871, www.blbsolicitors.co.uk

Goughs Solicitors is a leading regional law firm with a heritage dating back to 1882.

The firm provides expert legal services to both private individuals and corporate clients across the South West, with a strong emphasis on delivering tailored, practical advice for each client’s needs.

Recognised for its strengths in private client, property, family law and commercial services, Goughs combines long-standing expertise with a modern, client-focused approach. Today, the firm employs around 120 people and continues to build on its reputation for outstanding service.

What plans do you have this year to deliver further value to your clients?

This year I will be delivering a series of seasonal webinars, featuring segments on a range of employment law topics and updates on the latest legislative developments that may impact their businesses. These sessions will be designed to provide concise, practical guidance that managers and HR teams can easily apply in their day-to-day roles.

I will also be offering a contract and handbook health check service, enabling employers to review their contractual documents and

ensure they are compliant with current legislation and are updated to reflect the forthcoming legislative changes.

Overall, my aim is to help clients feel confident, informed and well prepared so they can approach the upcoming employment law changes following the Employment Rights Act 2025 proactively rather than reactively.

What challenges are your clients facing?

Most of my clients are currently grappling with the implications of the Employment Rights Act 2025 and understanding what the upcoming changes mean for their business. Ensuring that they are not only updating contractual documents but their internal practices as well.

We are also seeing a generational shift in the workplace. Employees are placing a greater emphasis on work-life balance and focusing on wellbeing both for them and their colleagues rather than setting their sights on higher salaries or performance-based bonuses which often come with longer hours and stress. This shift is prompting employers to rethink and, where applicable, change their culture and recruitment/retention strategies. Otherwise, do they run the risk of being left behind when it comes to attracting (and keeping) top talent?

For more: 0333 240 0023, www.goughs.co.uk, info@goughs.co.uk

SPONSORED CONTENT HELEN STARKIE SOLICITOR Helen Starkie

What area do you specialise in?

We are a niche ‘private client’ firm – the only one in Bath. We specialise in non-litigious work for individuals, families and entrepreneurs – Tax Planning, bespoke Wills, Powers of Attorney, Court of Protection work, Care Home contracts, Care Funding and Property transactions.

When was the firm founded and by whom?

I founded the firm 15 years ago.

After training and qualifying at a London firm I had for over twenty years run very large private client departments in two sizeable regional firms; but I became disillusioned by the way that they had become more ‘corporate’ in their approach to private individuals and the loss, as a result, of a personal service to clients. To me that is the essence of being a private client lawyer and the time seemed right to set up a practice based on the premise of ‘service’ as opposed, purely, to profit. I was right. Clients tell me that they wish I had done it years before I did.

“MANY CLIENTS HAVE MOVED TO US FROM LARGER FIRMS BECAUSE THEY VALUE THE FACT THAT WE KNOW AND UNDERSTAND THEM” What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Our ethos and our size, which facilitates us getting to know clients’ needs in depth. Many clients have moved to us from larger firms because they value the fact that we know and understand them (and ideally their families, too) and their particular needs. We make time for that. Many complain that in larger firms they never got to speak with the same person twice. Here, they feel they can always get hold of the person they need, and know that, if they cannot come to us, we will go to them at no additional cost.

SHARP FAMILY LAW

For more: 01225 442353, www.helenstarkie.co.uk

Tell us a little about your business...

Richard Sharp

Sharp Family Law is the largest niche firm of family law solicitors in Bath. We specialise in helping clients to minimise conflict and maximise results, so that they can move forward successfully into the future.

Since our inception, we have been committed to fostering a constructive and strategic approach to helping clients control costs and achieve the best possible outcome. We are recognised for our expertise in helping clients resolve issues in a constructive, cost efficient manner through out of court options, including Collaborative Law, Mediation and Constructive Negotiation What are the strengths of your company...

An interview process conducted recently revealed that clients felt very supported by our solicitors, received good advice from them, were encouraged 120 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

to concentrate on what was important to them and their families, and saw costs managed within budgets. They also believed the firm looked out for what was in their best interest. It is responses like that which explain why we do the work we do. It is the reason I founded the firm in 2007. It means a lot to us to know we are making a positive difference in our clients’ lives.

For more: 01225 448955, www.sharpfamilylaw.com

“IT MEANS A LOT TO US TO KNOW WE ARE MAKING A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE IN OUR CLIENTS’ LIVES”

SPONSORED CONTENT

THRINGS SOLICITORS Thrings is an award‑winning law firm with over 300 years of legal heritage and a well‑established footprint across the South and South West of England. With our history woven into Bath, we have grown in response to client demand, and our Bath lawyers based in Queen Square work seamlessly with colleagues in our other offices - Bristol, London, Lydney, Romsey, Ross‑on‑Wye and Swindon advising clients nationwide.

We take a people‑first approach, building trusted, long‑term relationships with

our clients and partners.

Whether advising businesses, individuals or families, we pair legal excellence with strong commercial insight to enable clients to grow and succeed.

With a growing headcount and 300 specialists, Thrings has become a leading name in specialist sectors, including Agriculture, Development of Land, Business Growth and Private Client law.

across the world.

Bath’s cultural offering is matched by its sought‑after business community, where new organisations launch and thrive each year alongside established industry leaders. We have had the pleasure of working with many of them over the years, advising them as they go onto achieving great things.

What makes working in Bath special?

Every client is unique. We take the time to understand their situation and deliver tailored advice that is specific to them.

Our approach allows us to build long‑term client relationships, and be trusted legal advisers.

Bath is a beautiful place to live, work, and visit with a vibrant and historic culture that transcends the Georgian townhouse image beloved

What do you like most about the work you do?

Tell us a little-known fact about the firm?

It’s no secret, we’re proud of our Bath heritage. The amazing thing is that we can trace our history back in this city for more than 300 years.

As with many law firms, our name might have changed over the years, but ‘Thring’ has been a consistent feature of it for 140 years – with Jeremy Thring, the third generation of the family, still involved at the firm!

For more: www.thrings.com

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SPONSORED CONTENT ACCOUNTANCY

MILSTED LANGDON Zoe Chandler, Senior Tax Manager

Milsted Langdon is a leading independent accountancy, tax, and business advisory firm with offices in Bath, Bristol, London, Taunton and Yeovil.

What do you specialise in?

GOODING ACCOUNTS Gooding Accounts is a dynamic accountancy firm offering a full range of services including: accounts, tax, business start-up, company secretarial, VAT, bookkeeping and payroll. We strive to stand apart from other practices, focusing on providing a friendly and approachable service where no question is too small. Our expert team are always on hand to help ease the pain of keeping your finances in order, freeing you up to do what you do best – running your business.

How was your firm founded and who by?

Sam Gooding founded Gooding Accounts in 2014 from his home office with just a single client. Twelve years later, a dedicated team of 40 professionals helps thousands of South-West businesses flourish.

Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement?

Community remains at the heart of Gooding Accounts’ values. In 2024, to mark 10 years in business, the team raised over £62,500 122 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

for 13 local charities. To support a colleague after her granddaughter’s lifethreatening diagnosis a successful 2025 Golf Day raised more than £12,000 The event is already scheduled for 2026 with two more South-West charities set to benefit. The firm continues to sponsor a wide variety of grassroots sports teams alongside local events including awards ceremonies, charity events and community festivals.

What has been the biggest change for your business is the last year?

2025 marked the beginning of a new era for Gooding Accounts with the move to a purpose-fitted Head Office, designed to accommodate the growing team. The team were at the heart of every decision, from selecting a commutable location to contributing ideas which shaped the refit to an open-plan layout that encourages collaboration. The result is a high-spec workspace reflecting both the firm’s professional standards and the personality of the people who make it thrive.

For more: www.goodingaccounts.co.uk

As a firm, we’re fortunate to offer a broad range of services to support our clients, from core areas such as audit, accountancy and tax compliance, through to specialist advisory services including tax planning, forensic accounting, and corporate finance.

As a Senior Tax Manager, I specialise in advising individuals, business owners and property investors on managing their tax affairs effectively. Given the strength of the property market in and around Bath, I work with many clients who own residential or investment properties, helping them understand the tax implications and plan ahead.

This often includes advice on Capital Gains Tax when selling property, structuring property investments in the most taxefficient way, and supporting clients with wider tax planning including Inheritance Tax, trusts and estate matters.

When is the best time to get advice?

Ideally before making a major financial decision. This is particularly important when it comes to property transactions, whether you’re purchasing a buy-to-let, expanding

a property portfolio, or considering selling an asset.

Getting advice early can help ensure the investment is structured in the most tax-efficient way and that you fully understand any tax implications before committing.

More generally, it’s helpful to stay in regular contact with your accountant or tax adviser.

For business owners, reviewing financial information regularly can highlight trends and opportunities, while individuals should review their tax position before the end of the tax year to make sure they’re making the most of available allowances and reliefs.

What do you like about working in Bath?

Bath is a fantastic place to work, with a vibrant business community and a thriving property market. The city attracts a wide range of entrepreneurs, professionals and property investors, which makes it a really interesting place to advise clients.

Our office at 4 Queen Street is right in the heart of the city, making it easy to meet clients and contacts across Bath. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the local business community and attending events across the city.

Bath has a strong sense of community and collaboration, which makes it a great environment to build long-term relationships with clients and fellow professionals.

For more: www.milstedlangdon.co.uk

SPONSORED CONTENT MUTU ACCOUNTANCY We are Chartered Accountants based in central Bath.

Established 11 years ago and specialising in the tech, creative, not-for-profit and consultancy sectors, our team of 7 work hard to make our client’s accounts accurate, tax efficient, informative and compliant.

What are going to be the topical issues for the sector in 2026?

MOORE SCARROTT Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Moore Scarrott is a specialist firm of chartered accountants and business advisers with offices in Bath, Taunton and Exeter.

The firm takes a sectorfocused approach, supporting veterinary practices, rural businesses, healthcare professionals and ownermanaged businesses across the UK. By concentrating on industries where the team has deep knowledge and experience, Moore Scarrott provides tailored advice that supports growth, succession planning and long-term success.

Who are the firm’s key leaders?

Moore Scarrott was founded in 2001 by Managing Partner Andy Moore, who brings extensive experience helping specialist sector clients structure their affairs tax-efficiently.

The firm’s Bath office is led

by Partner Duncan Nicholas, who works closely with ownermanaged businesses and professional clients, focusing on tax planning and practical commercial advice.

What predictions does the firm have for 2026?

We expect continued consolidation and investment across several of the sectors we advise, particularly veterinary

and healthcare. At the same time, the expansion of Making Tax Digital will accelerate the move towards real-time financial reporting. Businesses that embrace better financial data, effective tax planning and specialist sector advice will be best placed to navigate change and take advantage of opportunities.

What is the firm’s ethos and philosophy?

Moore Scarrott believes accountancy should add real value. By focusing on specialist sectors and building long-term relationships, the team provides advice that helps clients grow and plan ahead. At its core is a simple principle: to make clients better off — not just financially, but in terms of time, clarity and peace of mind.

In 2026 we have some big developments in accounting for soletraders and landlords.

With the introduction of Making Tax Digital meaning regular digital submissions to HMRC instead of just a final tax return for many businesses, it’s harder than ever to DIY your accounts. The other thing that is impacting the world of accountancy is the use of AI which has been a blessing and a curse! Accountants have been automating and digitising for decades and are already streamlined (or at least we are at Mutu!) but now we are finding people will try and use AI for tax or accounting advice which is often incorrect.

What plans do you have this year to deliver further value to your clients?

Any of our clients involved in Making Tax Digital will be fully supported through that process. In addition we are strengthening our Virtual Finance Department function to take as much stress as possible off our clients and enable them to benefit from a whole finance team without the overhead of full time staff.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

We really embrace digitisation, automation and excellent advice combined with a friendly approach. We’re small but we have specialist in-house tax advisory services and business advice also. The main thing that sets us apart though is our specialisms in the technology start-up sector and not-for-profits and charities.

Describe the firm’s offices?

We are based at Newark Works which is an amazing building full of business who collaborate together. If you come in for a meeting you’ll see the friendly atmosphere and meeting areas. Plus we always have lots of Lindt Lindor chocolates to make the meeting go even better (we’re a bit obsessed!).

For more: 01225 582582, hello@mutu.uk, www.mutu.uk

Name a rising star in the firm?

Nathan Wheeler recently joined the Bath office as a Manager and has already made an impact, meeting local owner-managed businesses and delivering practical advice.

When he’s not supporting clients, Nathan is preparing for his toughest challenge yet – a gruelling 100km ultramarathon to raise money for charity.

For more: 01225 234294, www.moore scarrott.co.uk

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SPONSORED CONTENT FINANCE community support have always been important to us.

We’re proud to contribute through initiatives like the RUH Walk in support of the NHS Foundation Trust, and the Bath Half Marathon. Alongside wider fundraising and volunteering efforts, including our recent volunteering day at Bath City Farm, to make a positive difference locally.

What have been your highlights of the last 12 months?

We began last year delivering financial wellbeing seminars to the Rebalance Festival and The Women’s Institute.

In September our founding director, John Baxter, retired after building Unividual over 25 years. John’s departure marked the beginning of our journey with Lync, setting us up to provide lifestyle financial planning for another 25 years and beyond.

LYNC

Simon Jones, Chartered Financial Adviser Unividual – the family-led financial planning firm in the heart of Bath – is now part of Lync Wealth Management.

We’re a nationwide firm of expert financial advisers and an affiliate of 7IM – one of the world’s leading wealth and investment managers.

Since the acquisition in July 2025, our name may’ve

changed, but our ethos hasn’t.

We’re focused on clear, personal advice built around long-term client relationships.

We support individuals, families and business owners with retirement planning, investments, protection, mortgages, and tax and estate planning.

Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement?

Charitable engagement and

What do you think will be topical issues in financial planning in 2026?

Inheritance Tax (IHT – paid when someone passes) is a key and topical issue, because of recent announcements about it changing.

From April 2026, the limits for tax relief on farms and business assets are adjusting. So, estate planning is a focal point for many now too.

Lastly, a major shift from April 2027 will mean most pension funds will be counted

“WE’RE FOCUSED ON CLEAR, PERSONAL ADVICE BUILT AROUND LONGTERM CLIENT RELATIONSHIPS”

as part of a person’s estate when working out IHT. This change is prompting people to review and restructure their plans to save money in the future.

Name a rising star in the firm

George Denning. He recently graduated from our Adviser Academy. He’s passionate about financial planning and excited about working with clients to achieve their goals, dreams and aspirations.

For more: 01225 427474, simon.jones@lyncwm.co.uk www.lyncwm.co.uk/bath

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SPONSORED CONTENT MI WEALTH CONSULTANCY Maria Isaeva, Founder

We are a boutique financial consultancy based in Bath and London, providing tax efficient financial planning advice to ambitious business owners, professionals and families.

Tell us about the firm’s founder?

HAWKSMOOR INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT Kerina Meadows, Investment Manager

For readers who may not know the firm, how would you introduce Hawksmoor Investment Management?

Hawksmoor Investment Management is a UK-based firm founded in 2008, working with private individuals and clients of professional advisers, including trusts, pensions and charities. We aim to help clients grow and protect their wealth over the long term.

With offices in Bath, Exeter, London, Taunton, Worcester, Salisbury and Harrogate, we provide discretionary portfolios built around each client’s objectives, time horizon and attitude to risk. Portfolios are diversified across asset classes, sectors and regions and we place strong emphasis on clear communication, so clients understand how their money is invested and feel supported in all market conditions.

Can you share an overview of your background and journey within private wealth management and your interests outside of work?

I studied Mathematics at the University of Exeter before completing an MSc in Finance at the London

School of Economics, which sparked my interest in private wealth management. Since then, I’ve built my career in London, gaining experience across three firms—Stanhope Capital, Waverton Investment Management and Sarasin & Partners— building a strong foundation in client relationships and longterm investment strategy.

Outside work, I enjoy triathlon training, playing the piano, horse riding and travelling.

Maria is a fully qualified financial planner and a Chartered Financial Analyst with over 19 years industry experience. The consultancy was founded in 2017 with a focus on lifestyle financial planning. Maria lives in Bath with her family, outside of work, she enjoy the outdoors, travelling, learning languages and dance. One of her other passions is cooking – she’s been obsessed with her Ninja Foodi since 2020!

What are going to be the topical issues for the sector in 2026?

Disruptive technology will

continue to create opportunities for firms who are willing to adapt. Increased efficiency and automation of mundane tasks will reduce costs providing opportunities to improve service levels and advise more clients. Financial planners who focus on strategic advice such as helping clients navigate major life decisions, behavioural biases or complex family situations will remain invaluable.

For more: 07980 856945, 02080 420503, www.miwealth.co.uk

MI Wealth Consultancy Limited is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

SJP Approved 12/03/26

As we look ahead to 2026, what is your outlook for global markets and the wider economic environment?

Looking ahead, financial conditions are expected to ease as central banks cut interest rates, which should support earnings and smaller company valuations. While valuations remain stretched in parts of the US market, opportunities are broadening globally, particularly in the UK and emerging markets. With ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and inflation volatility, we remain constructive but cautious, emphasising diversification, disciplined risk management and a focus on genuine longterm value.

For more: 01225 984710, www.hawksmoorim.co.uk

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SPONSORED CONTENT

The Saltus Bath team undertaking a sponsored walk to raise money for our charity partners in October 2025

SALTUS Saltus is a UK wealth management firm with over £10.5bn in AUA, more than 450 employees and a 97% client retention rate. Established in 2004, Saltus began by delivering institutional‑calibre investment management to private clients.

Our investment management is led by the Saltus Asset Management team, whose disciplined approach shapes our portfolios. As client needs evolved, we expanded in 2015 to include comprehensive financial planning, delivered through Saltus Financial Planning.

What will be the topical issues for the sector in 2026?

A key issue for 2026 is the shift

in the pension landscape, with inheritance tax due to apply to unused pension funds and death benefits from April 2027.

This is leading advisers to revisit with clients when to take income, the role of pensions in retirement planning, and how pensions fit into wider estate strategies. Rising property and investment values are also bringing more families into the inheritance tax net, increasing demand for long term and intergenerational planning.

Regulation will remain central, with the FCA’s Consumer Duty now a prominent industry‑wide focus. For us, it simply reinforces practices already embedded in how we work.

What sets Saltus apart from others in the sector?

Saltus stands apart as one of the UK’s highest‑rated

wealth managers, driven by industry‑leading technology and strong investment performance.

Built with client feedback, the Saltus app provides a clear view of family wealth, including performance, tax wrappers and allowances, in one place. Our investment management is led

by Saltus Asset Management, whose disciplined approach has delivered consistent results, with the middle‑risk portfolio outperforming the peer group by an average of 1.9% per year over eight years (Balanced ARC PCI benchmark, full calendar years 2017-2024).

“RISING PROPERTY AND INVESTMENT VALUES ARE ALSO BRINGING MORE FAMILIES INTO THE INHERITANCE TAX NET, INCREASING DEMAND FOR LONG TERM AND INTERGENERATIONAL PLANNING”

For more: 01489 663700 www.saltus.co.uk

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SPONSORED CONTENT TECHNOLOGY DIGITAL WONDERLAB

Nathan Baranowski, Co-CEO Founded in 2009, Digital Wonderlab is a team of digital visionaries helping ambitious organisations reach further and grow faster. Bringing together deep expertise across strategy, design, technology, and AI, they guide missionfuelled organisations through their digital evolution. They’re B-Corp certified, Umbraco Platinum Partners and proud Technology winners in the Bath Life and UK Tech Business awards.

How has the firm adapted to stay relevant?

We’ve evolved intentionally, clarifying who we are and the standard we hold ourselves to: relentlessly curious, impactdriven and future-focused.

AI has accelerated everything, fundamentally changing how we work and what we offer. We’re weaving intelligent automation, AI agents and data-led insight into platforms and operations, enabling organisations to move faster, make smarter decisions and unlock greater capacity.

We cut through hype, focusing on purposeful, responsible AI that genuinely improves performance, harnessing tech powerfully and positively.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

We don’t separate strategy, design and technology – they only work when they work together.

We start by exploring what’s really happening in your market, data, systems and user journeys.

We challenge assumptions with evidence, define clear roadmaps and engineer platforms and automations to deliver real impact.

We’re a strategic, hands-on, long-term digital partner who cares about outcomes – growth, productivity and resilience – not just launching projects. We’re about beautiful design, robust engineering and intelligent AI – all joined up and delivering results, fast.

What predictions does the firm have for 2026?

Digital will become even more business-critical – and the gap between organisations that embed intelligent systems and those that don’t will widen fast.

We’ll see ultra-personalised experiences, hyper-automated operations, and AI embedded powerfully across workflows.

The opportunity is enormous. Digital evolution isn’t just about improving efficiency – it’s about transforming how organisations serve people, scale impact and stay ahead.

For more: 01225 976 611, nathanb@digitalwonderlab.com, digitalwonderlab.com

ONFINITY Founded in 2014 in Bath, ONFINITY was created to provide dependable, forwardthinking IT support and solutions to organisations across Bath, Bristol, and the surrounding areas.

What began as a local service has grown steadily year after year, now supporting hundreds of businesses, charities, and schools with tailored technology services that keep operations running smoothly. ONFINITY prides itself on building long-term partnerships, delivering responsive support, and scalable solutions to meet evolving needs.

As a Cyber Security Plus certified provider, the company demonstrates a clear commitment to protecting clients’ systems, data, and reputations in an increasingly complex digital world.

What are going to be the topical issues for the sector in 2026?

Cybersecurity escalation: With increasingly sophisticated threats like AI-powered attacks and ransomware, organisations will start to prioritise proactive defence, Zero Trust frameworks, and robust incident response capabilities.

How can you help with remote / hybrid working?

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Onfinity delivers secure, scalable cloud-based IT solutions including hosted systems, VPN connectivity, remote desktop environments, and VoIP telephony.

Over the past six years, we have supported a wide range of clients in transitioning to flexible working, enabling teams to operate effectively from home or any location. For many organisations that have embraced permanent remote or hybrid models, we have provided the infrastructure, security, and ongoing support needed to make that shift seamless and sustainable.

For more: 01225 984000, www.onfinity.co.uk,

“OVER THE PAST SIX YEARS, WE HAVE SUPPORTED A WIDE RANGE OF CLIENTS IN TRANSITIONING TO FLEXIBLE WORKING, ENABLING TEAMS TO OPERATE EFFECTIVELY FROM HOME OR ANY LOCATION”

RECRUITMENT CMD RECRUITMENT Dan Barfoot, Operations Manager

Humanising the hiring process has been our mission for over 22 years. As the South West’s leading independent recruitment partner, we specialise in commercial, technical, industrial, and executive search. We help local companies secure the right talent, first time, allowing them to scale with confidence. Our success-only model ensures we remain a performance-driven ally for bath’s vibrant SMEs and FTSE100 firms alike, bridging the gap between highlevel consultancy and deeprooted local expertise.

What have been the highlights of the last 12 months?

2025 was a year of celebrating loyalty and grit. A major highlight was seeing four incredible team members reach their 10-year anniversary with CMD. This is a rarity in the fast-paced recruitment world and speaks volumes to our supportive culture.

We also successfully placed hundreds of professionals into roles that drive the local economy. Whether it was supporting a bath startup’s first hire or managing a large-scale industrial contract, our highlight remains the confidence our clients feel when they find the perfect match.

Tell us about the company’s community and charity involvement?

“HUMANISING THE HIRING PROCESS HAS BEEN OUR MISSION”

We believe a business is only as strong as the community it supports. In 2025, we helped 450 local children access free football, sponsored five local football teams, two PTAs and local food banks. We are committed to local economic growth and continually look for opportunities to enrich our local community by supporting the businesses and individuals within it.

What plans do you have this year to deliver further value to your clients?

In 2026, our focus is consultative stability. We are helping clients navigate the 2025 employment rights act and providing real-time salary benchmarking. By combining a high-performance tech stack with a team boasting over 150 years of collective experience, we cut time to hire by half.

Many of our consultants have been with us since inception, maintaining the same client relationships for decades. This longevity ensures we handle a tightening talent market with the honest, expert-led solutions and proven deliverability our partners rely on.

For more: cmdrecruitment.com

We are Mutu. Chartered Accountants based in the beautiful city of Bath We’re here to take make your accounts accurate, efficient, informative and compliant.

Let Mutu make a difference for you and your business.

Mutu Accountancy Newark Works, Bath, BA2 3GZ 01225 582582 | hello@mutu.uk www.mutu.uk

SPONSORED CONTENT PROPERTY CARTER JONAS David Mackenzie, Partner

Carter Jonas is a leading UK property consultancy working across residential, rural, commercial, planning, development and infrastructure. Our national network of over 1,000 property professionals operating from 34 offices means we can offer both national coverage and unrivalled local expertise.

Our strategic international partnerships enable us to offer our clients exposure across global markets, including our exclusive affiliation with luxury property specialist Christie’s International Real Estate.

CAMELLA

Melissa Anderson, Director Camella is a female-founded boutique sales and letting agency with three branches across Batheaston, Camden/ Larkhall, and Bear Flat. Built on a personal approach to property, Camella focuses on making every move feel supportive and seamless. Their core values form the acronym KIN Kindness, Integrity, and Noticeable service, reflecting the belief that moving home should feel like being welcomed into a family. By combining local expertise with genuine care, Camella aims to stand out through thoughtful guidance and a truly human approach to buying, selling, and letting homes.

How important is online presence when selling or letting your home?

Online exposure directly affects the speed of sale or let, the number of viewings, and the final price achieved.

At Camella, all listings are premium on Rightmove, with boosted placement to appear at the top of searches.

We prioritise virtual tours and video, and our new website features area guides, nearby amenities, and school catchment insights. As most property journeys begin online, we combine strong digital

marketing with the human touch to guide you through the process.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

What sets us apart is our customer experience at every touchpoint. From discovering our properties online to booking viewings and completing a sale or let, every step is designed to be smooth and supportive. Our team genuinely cares about our clients, which is reflected in our reviews. As a technology-driven agency, we also prioritise strong brand experience and modern tools to make moving easier and more transparent.

What is the staffing model?

Our staffing model is built on the belief that people come first. If you get the strategy right but the people wrong, you will fail; if the strategy is wrong but the people are right, you can still succeed. We recruit around behavioural attributes and values, focusing on people who genuinely want to do the right thing for clients. This culture is reflected in our 5-star reviews and recommendations, which have helped accelerate our growth through exceptional service.

How was your firm founded and who by?

Carter Jonas is a property partnership started in 1855

by John Carter Jonas. From our first offices as auctioneers in Cambridge we have grown to a national firm of property professionals covering all of your property needs. Our tailored service has enabled us to forge lasting, effective and trusting partnerships with our clients. These long-standing relationships are our most important and closely protected asset. This is why some of the biggest property owners remain clients of Carter Jonas since the business started.

“THESE LONGSTANDING RELATIONSHIPS ARE OUR MOST IMPORTANT AND CLOSELY PROTECTED ASSET”

What are going to be the topical issues for the sector in 2026?

Off the back of the autumn market stalling the housing market, we now face a backdrop of international tensions in the middle east, which could create a safe haven for ex-pats to return to the UK and bolster demand in a city like Bath. Carter Jonas, with our strong foundations and expertise, are well versed in complex markets and through honest communication can guide you through the trends ahead of us.

For more: 5&6 Wood Street, Bath, BA1 2JQ , 01225 747250, www.carterjonas.co.uk

Describe the firm’s offices?

We have a large, flagship office located centrally in the city centre, just off Queens Square on Wood Street, which has a large footfall, and we are proud of our large display window to show of our beautiful property register.

For more: 01225 255 321, melissa@camella.co.uk, www.camella.co.uk

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SPONSORED CONTENT CRAIG FULLER PROPERTY

CLEAN BREAK PROPERTIES LTD Established in 2020, Clean Break Properties is an awardwinning agency that serves as a principal lettings specialist in Bath. The firm originally focused exclusively on shortterm and holiday rentals but has recently expanded into long-term and “hybrid” lets (two weeks to six months) through a strategic partnership with 20-year industry veteran Matt Fallon.

The business operates with a specialised team led by Directors James Miller and Scott Eanes and manages a high-quality portfolio of over 20 properties. Notably, Clean Break Properties was named Property Agent of the Year at the 2025 Bath Property Awards. The judges praised the firm for its “versatile, entrepreneurial” approach and for acting with “purpose and determination” in the local market.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

Clean Break Properties positions itself as a disruptive force in the Bath property market by challenging traditional agency models.

What sets them apart is their full suite of lettings services— covering short-term, holiday, long-term, and unique “hybrid” lets—all under one brand. This flexibility allows them to provide landlords 134 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

with reduced voids and strong demand from corporate and insurance clients who require stays ranging from two weeks to three months.

Who are the firm’s key leaders/founders and managers?

The firm is led by Directors James Miller, who manages the company’s strategic direction of the business and brother-inlaw Scott Eanes who manages operations. The leadership team recently expanded to include Matt Fallon, a highly respected specialist with over 20 years of experience in property management. A Bath native with deep local knowledge, Fallon also continues to own and operate Fallon Property in Swindon.

What Awards has the firm [or members of its team] won?

Clean Break Properties was recently crowned Property Agent of the Year at the 2025 Bath Property Awards. This prestigious win highlights the firm’s rapid ascent as a principal lettings agent in the city. The judges specifically noted the firm’s versatile and entrepreneurial approach, describing them as an agency that acts with clear purpose and determination.

For more: Unit 4a Artisans Yard, Claude Avenue, Bath, England, BA2 1AF, 01225 941152, www.cleanbreakproperties.com

Tell us a little about the firm…

Craig Fuller Property S&A Ltd (CFP) was founded by Craig Fuller on the 1st January 2025; Craig, who was previously a regional Director for Stacks Property Search since 2017, founded the company with a focus on being client, rather than territory led. CFP is a highly respected property search & Acquisition company, which identifies, negotiates and secures country houses across Bath, the Cotswolds, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Somerset for its clients. I large percentage of clients are overseas clients, including several Family offices for which Craig has acted for many years. The current team is 7.

What is the most rewarding aspect of the firm’s work?

The relationships built with clients is certainly the most important and enjoyable part of the business. The strength of these relationships

is vital to ensuring the whole process of buying a home is effective and successful. On top of that, we get to see some of the most exceptional and stunning houses there are in and around Bath.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

An eye for detail and the speed of action. Time is almost always the most important factor in any property transaction, for all sides. Being able to respond and act quickly is essential in a competitive marketplace.

What Awards has the firm (or members of its team) won?

Craig continues to be Recommended as a country specialist by Spears500 since 2022, and the team was thrilled to win the Cotswolds Awards for both 2024 and 2025 for the best property business in the Cotswolds.

For more: 07767211707, craigfullerproperty.co.uk

SPONSORED CONTENT HETREED ROSS ARCHITECTS A long-established, awardwinning practice, we specialise in bespoke, sustainable architecture across the southwest. Working on new builds, Listed Buildings, alterations and extensions, our small team excels at securing difficult consents for community, residential, commercial and education projects. Using low energy design and sustainable construction, we produce delightful buildings.

FLOWER PROPERTY Established in 2024, Flower Property is a bespoke Estate Agency in Bath dedicated to Residential Sales, Lettings, and Commercial Property.

With a focused head count of three key experts, we combine meticulous market foresight with a personalised, human approach.

We specialise in the Bathwick and Widcombe area of Bath, helping you plant the right seeds today for a prosperous tomorrow.

Who are the firm’s key leaders and managers?

Our business was founded

by Jack Flower in 2024, who runs Residential Sales with a focus on high-end transactions Bathwick & Widcombe.

Luke Flower joined six months ago to head up Residential Lettings and Commercial Property.

Who is a rising star in the firm?

Our real rising star is Luke Flower; his dedication and deep market knowledge has been instrumental in rapidly expanding the Lettings side of the business. With a whole host of legal changes about to hit the Residential Lettings market, there is no one better than Luke to help navigate you through these changes.

“THE STUNNING AESTHETIC OF THE CITY MAKES OUR JOB A WHOLE LOT EASIER.”

Where is the firm located?

Flower Property currently operates from the Rengen House co-working space in Bathwick. However, as part of our 2026 growth strategy, we are preparing to open a shop front on Widcombe Parade to better serve the local community.

design: building and renovation projects are the greatest opportunity for most clients to reduce carbon and running costs. We include a Passivhaus Designer and our norm for both new buildings and for extensions is for Passivhaus standards of insulation achieved at modest cost; ecoupgrading historic buildings, is often complex but we still aim for highest possible standards of environmental improvements.

Buildings can be sustainable and beautiful. We are AECB and Green Register members.

Tell us about the practice’s community and charity involvement?

What is the practice’s ethos and philosophy?

Tell us about the practice’s commitment to and policies for sustainability?

For more: Hetreed Ross Architects, Bath Brewery, Toll Bridge Road, Bath, BA1 7DE , 01225 851860, www.hetreedross.com

We have just completed our 3rd project for the charity Jamie’s Farm, converting another listed farmhouse.

Other work includes providing regular inspections for 12 local churches – and currently two extension projects, community cafés including Bath City Farm Café, shops, a theatre, small museum, and education facilities. Our charity clients benefit from reduced rates and extra enthusiasm!

We have a long-standing commitment to sustainable

We put our clients first; that means we listen intently and design each project from first principles rather than following a “house style”, applying design creativity and technical expertise to every project.

Sustainable design is tailored to each client’s ambitions. We value collaboration with clients, consultants, and contractors to deliver truly good design which will inspire, delight, and provide a life enhancing environment.

What makes working in Bath special?

For us, the draw is Bath’s worldclass architecture. The stunning aesthetic of the city makes our job a whole lot easier, as homes often sell themselves. Bath is a place people want to move to, ensuring a constant, vibrant pool of buyers and tenants drawn to the city’s unique heritage.

For more: Residential Sales: jack@ flowerproperty.co.uk Residential Lettings & Commercial: luke@flowerproperty.co.uk www.flowerproperty.co.uk

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SPONSORED CONTENT KNIGHT FRANK

Sam Daniels, AssocRICS, Partner, Head of Bath City Sales Knight Frank Bath is a leading player in Bath’s property market, specialising in prime residential sales. We combine an in-depth understanding of Bath’s unique homes with global expertise. We bring a dynamic approach, blending local insight with the firms extensive global reach to offer a client first ethos.

What have been the highlights of the last 12 months?

JEREMY JENKINS Jeremy Jenkins

How was your firm founded & by who?

By me! When the “corporate nasty” of the estate agency world made me redundant it forced my hand. We opened our doors in March 2010 with no houses to sell & an empty diary. Having a young family to support & a mountain of debt to service it certainly focussed my mind! It was very scary, but I don’t recall imagining I could fail – possibly that’s just rosetinted glasses.

“OUR VERY PRETTY OFFICE IS ON MARKET STREET IN CENTRAL BRADFORD ON AVON”

Describe your firms’ offices?

Our very pretty office is on Market Street in central Bradford on Avon. I grew up above it when my parents first ran Avon Antiques before retiring. It’s tiny but perfectly formed for our close-knit team.

We’re not a “boutique” estate agency.

Tell us about your firms’ community & charity involvement?

That’s something I’m keen on; using my business to support local causes. Ove the years we have given to Help for Heroes, Dorothy House, Young Carers, Bradford on Avon football, the local foodbank, rugby & cricket teams, Lions fun run, a judo club & a kids football tour of Holland. We’ve sponsored public talks & a couple of books on the town’s history too.

Despite being one of the most challenging markets in years — higher rates, nervous buyers and very limited stock across the South West, it has been my best year yet. Even taking the post‑Covid bounce into account, where we all saw record activity, this year has surpassed it again, a real testament to the hard work and commitment of the team here at Knight Frank. A major reason has been the number of off‑market transactions completed in Bath. Many of the strongest homes never reached the portals, so registering early has become essential; the best opportunities increasingly happen quietly, not publicly.

What issues will shape the property sector in 2026, and how does Knight Frank expect the year to unfold?

Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of cautious improvement, particularly in the South West. Many expect mortgage rates to continue

trending downwards as inflation softens and confidence slowly returns, which should help support steady buyer activity.

Most forecasts point to modest national house‑price growth of 2–2.5%, with the South West projected to track close to that, sensible, stable growth rather than fireworks.

Bath remains its own micro‑market. Demand continues to outstrip supply for period homes, family houses and anything with good space.

Flats without outdoor space remain more price‑sensitive, but the lifestyle appeal of Bath and the surrounding villages continues to attract committed buyers. Hybrid working is now firmly embedded, and Bath ticks that blend of space, character and connectivity that buyers increasingly prioritise.

Regulation will also shape the year ahead. The Renters’ Rights Act and tightening obligations on landlords are likely to prompt further landlord disposals, particularly relevant in Bath’s apartment‑heavy areas.

A big variable this year is the escalating war in Iran. Any disruption to global oil supply could push energy prices back up, slowing the fall in inflation and delaying rate reductions.

If that happens, the gentle recovery currently forecast could be tempered.

Overall, 2026 looks steady but sensitive, with Bath still one of the most resilient markets due to its chronic lack of quality stock.

For more: 4 Wood Street, Bath, BA1 2JQ , www.knightfrank.com

For more: 27 Market Street, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1LL, 01225 866 747, www.jeremyjenkins.co.uk, info@jeremyjenkins.co.uk

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SPONSORED CONTENT OTTERS HOME SEARCH

MARK VINCENT SURVEYING Mark Vincent, Chartered Surveyor

I started as my own boss in 2013, following years being exhausted in the corporate grind. I still gratefully cover the same Bath and surrounding area that I have done since 1992. I only survey residential property. Every single day is different. I was born and raised in the area that I cover, and local knowledge is a great help.

Work/Life balance – how do you get it right?

I try and survey a property in the morning, and try to work from home on a Friday to catch up and to free-up the weekends, but it seems rarely to work that way, being self employed. I often fit in another survey to

“DURING A NORMAL WORKING DAY, I WORK FROM MY VW T6 TRANSPORTER, LIVERIED IN MY COMPANY’S GREEN COLOURS ”

help a desperate client, which means catching up over the weekend. So I often fail in the best work/life balance.

I try to walk my staffie a couple of miles a day with a view to achieving virtual walking challenges, and weather permitting at weekends, or in the week in summer, try and get to Cheddar Watersports to enjoy paddleboarding and windsurfing.

Fine weather motorcycling is also relaxing. You will notice that there a lot of “try”s!

Describe your offices?

During a normal working day, I work from my VW T6 Transporter, liveried in my company’s green colours with my name and details on it. It has a heater and wifi, and the view from my “office” can change daily and overlook some of our beautiful West Country countryside. At home, I seem to be in a couple of rooms, currently the conservatory, watching a squirrel eat the bird seed.

Did you know?

I learnt to swim in the Cross Baths when the water was very dark green - I think Julius Caesar was in my class!

For more: mvsurveying.co.uk

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Founded in 2023 by Chartered Surveyors Abbie Long and Francesca Watson, Otters Home Search is a specialist buying agency offering bespoke property search and relocation services across Bath and the surrounding countryside.

Acting exclusively for buyers, whether already local or relocating from elsewhere in the UK or abroad, the firm helps clients secure the right home with confidence.

We undertake carefully tailored searches, identifying properties that align with each client’s needs, lifestyle and long-term plans. Through our network of professional and personal contacts, we provide access to both on-market and discreet offmarket opportunities, offering professional end-to-end support throughout the buying process.

What makes Bath such a special place to work as a buying agent?

Bath combines architectural beauty, rich culture and a strong sense of community, and sharing its hidden gems is a particularly enjoyable part of our role when guiding clients.

For us, it is about more than property; it is about helping people find a home that suits their lifestyle. Bath’s diverse market - from Georgian

“BATH COMBINES ARCHITECTURAL BEAUTY, RICH CULTURE AND A STRONG SENSE OF COMMUNITY”

townhouses to countryside homes just minutes from the city centre - means every search is different.

There is also a collaborative spirit among local businesses and property professionals, which makes Bath a rewarding place to run our business.

Topical issues this Summer?

More homes are coming to the market this spring and summer, matched by increased buyer demand, resulting in a more balanced market after a very unsettled housing market in 2025. Lifestyle priorities such as access to good schools and proximity to amenities continue to shape decisions, while affordability and mortgage considerations mean buyers are planning carefully. If you are considering a move, we would be delighted to guide you. Visit www.ottershomesearch.com

for contact details and to start your journey.

For more: www.ottershomesearch.com

SPONSORED CONTENT RENGEN HOUSE

PETER GREATOREX What achievement are you most proud of?

One of the achievements I am most proud of is founding The Apartment Company in 2004, which began quite literally in a study at home. From those early days I grew the business into a market-leading niche agency, earning a strong reputation for expertise, service, and consistent results.

After successfully developing the company over many years, I made the decision to sell the business and focus fully on the Peter Greatorex brand, concentrating on the premium homes and country property market across Bath, Bristol and the surrounding areas.

This transition has allowed me to provide a more personal, discreet, and advisory service to clients selling exceptional homes.

What is the Peter Greatorex staffing model?

My mid- to long-term ambition is to develop a high-quality self-employed broker model, enabling high-calibre agents to build their own businesses under a trusted and proven brand. The concept is designed for experienced professionals who want greater independence while still benefiting from strong brand credibility and infrastructure.

The model will provide administrative, marketing

and compliance support, allowing agents to focus on what they do best - building relationships, advising clients and securing excellent results. I am already in discussions with several extremely high-calibre agents who are excited by the opportunity to operate in this way, and I believe it has the potential to create a strong network of entrepreneurial professionals working under the Peter Greatorex brand.

What awards has the company won?

Following the rebrand of the business, I entered the new website into the Negotiator Awards, one of the most respected national events in the property industry. We were delighted to win Estate Agent Website of the Year, announced at the ceremony held at Grosvenor House in London.

At Rengen House, we’ve created a “home-from-home” — welcoming, comfortable and relaxed rather than corporate.

It’s a space that members genuinely enjoy coming to, designed to encourage natural interaction without pressure.

We are based in a beautifully restored Georgian townhouse in the heart of Bath. The building retains its original charm and character, while seamlessly incorporating all the modern facilities expected from a fully equipped workspace.

Thoughtfully designed interiors create an atmosphere that is both calm and inspiring.

Our large outdoor terrace extends the working environment — ideal for al fresco working, informal meetings or enjoying a sunny lunchbreak.

What makes working in Bath special?

It’s a privilege to be part of Bath’s thriving business community. At Rengen House, we see a broad spectrum of professionals under one roof — from entrepreneurial start-ups and freelancers, to remote employees of national and global organisations, alongside representatives from some of Bath’s most established employers.

What stands out is the spirit of collaboration. Local businesses are eager to support one another, share knowledge and build meaningful connections — a sense of openness we value enormously.

And, of course, it’s hard not to be inspired when working minutes from Bath’s iconic sights, shops and renowned cafés and restaurants.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

Rengen House goes beyond providing workspace.

Community is central — we encourage social interaction, networking and collaboration, ensuring members feel part of something larger than their individual desk.

Flexible membership options allow individuals and businesses to choose arrangements that genuinely suit their needs.

Members also benefit from thoughtful extras — unlimited drinks and snacks, plus access to Rengen House events — creating an inspiring, supportive and productive environment.

For more: 4 Argyle Street, Bath, BA2 4BA, 01225 562692, www.rengenhouse.com

What’s the business ethos and philosophy?

The ethos of the business is simple: a personal and strategic approach to selling exceptional homes, working with a select number of clients so each property receives careful positioning, thoughtful marketing and experienced negotiation.

For more: 01225 904999, pg@petergreatorex.co.uk, www.petergreatorex.co.uk

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SPONSORED CONTENT ROSIE MARLOW Rosie Marlow, Personal Estate Agent

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

ROOST BATH Grant Atkinson

Established in late 2024, Roost Bath offers holiday property management services for boutique properties in and around central Bath. Over the past twelve months, the company has welcomed a portfolio of exciting new properties, each with its own character and charm, further strengthening its presence in the city’s thriving holiday rental market.

What makes working in Bath special?

We feel incredibly fortunate to live and work in such a wonderful city. Bath’s rich history, architecture, and strong tourism sector create a vibrant and inspiring environment that we love to showcase.

The individual character of the buildings we manage is especially rewarding - many are full of period features and unique details, meaning no two properties are ever the same, which makes our work both varied and fulfilling.

How was your firm founded and who by?

The business was founded and is ran by Grant Atkinson, whose background in the hotel industry has shaped

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its direction from the very start. “Having worked in an environment where attention to detail, consistency, and guest satisfaction are key, I wanted to bring that same level of professionalism and care to the holiday rental sector,” he says. “That hotel-standard approach guides everything we do - from smooth check-ins and meticulously prepared homes to prompt communication and proactive guest support.”

What have been the highlights of the last 12 months?

Although not without its challenges, the past year has been immensely rewarding, marked by steady growth, new client partnerships, and consistently positive guest feedback.

A standout moment was being named a finalist in the New Business category at the Bath Life Awards - a wonderful acknowledgment of the dedication and effort invested in the business, and an honour to be recognised alongside so many other inspiring new local businesses.

For more: 07798760811, roostbath.co.uk, hello@roostbath.co.uk

Rosie Marlow Personal Estate Agent stands out by offering a truly personal and tailored service to every client. Each property is supported by a bespoke marketing and service plan, with one dedicated point of contact from the initial valuation through to completion.

Properties are promoted across major portals including Rightmove, Zoopla and OnTheMarket, alongside targeted social media marketing to maximise exposure. The office is open seven days a week, and clients benefit from flexible appointments, with calls, valuations and viewings available outside of traditional office hours to suit busy lifestyles.

What is the firms ethos and philosophy?

Rosie Marlow Personal Estate Agent is built on a simple philosophy: property should be personal. Rather than the traditional high-street approach, clients work directly with Rosie from start to finish, ensuring a consistent, supportive experience throughout the entire selling or buying journey.

The business focuses on honest advice, bespoke marketing and proactive communication, with the goal of presenting every home at its very best and guiding clients smoothly through the process. By combining local knowledge with a truly client-focused approach, Rosie Marlow Personal Estate Agent aims to make moving home a more positive and personal experience.

What makes working in Bath special?

Working in Bath means helping clients find homes in one of the most desirable and characterful cities in the UK. The property

“ROSIE MARLOW PERSONAL ESTATE AGENT IS BUILT ON A SIMPLE PHILOSOPHY: PROPERTY SHOULD BE PERSONAL”

market here is diverse, from elegant period townhouses and charming Georgian terraces to contemporary apartments and family homes in surrounding villages. What makes the role especially rewarding is guiding clients through their property journeys while showcasing the lifestyle that Bath offers – a city known for its culture, independent shops, excellent schools and beautiful countryside on its doorstep.

Being part of the Bath property market means more than simply selling homes; it’s about connecting people with a place that offers history, beauty and a wonderful quality of life.

For more: 01225 941008; rosie.marlow@exp.uk.com; rosiemarlow.exp.uk.com

SPONSORED CONTENT SRA ARCHITECTS SRA is an award-winning Bathbased Architectural Practice, delivering innovative buildings across the UK for over 35 years. Our team of about 30 staff work collaboratively to help clients realise their vision through our Creative Approach.

We prioritise staff well-being and development, enabling us to deliver excellence and build lasting client relationships.

What achievement are you most proud of?

SAVILLS BATH

Alistair Heather, Head of Savills Bath What are going to be the topical issues for the sector in 2026?

After a tough 2025, the property market is starting to recover well and find its rhythm again. In Bath we are beginning to feel the benefits of a steadier economy following the Autumn Budget, and interest rates are finally calming down, which is helping bring buyers back into the market.

More homes are coming up for sale this year and with Bath’s continued popularity as a place to live amongst people of all ages, we are seeing plenty of competition, and expect this strong demand to keep the market moving as the year goes on.

Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement?

We’ve been in Bath for nearly 40 years and have exceptionally strong ties to the city. We support a variety of local

“BATH HAS A BRILLIANT MIX OF HISTORY AND ENERGY”

charities and causes, including the RUH’s Walk of Life, which we are a long-standing sponsor of, and look forward to taking part again this year. Personally, I will also be running the Bath Half for the Bath Rugby Foundation for the second year in a row, and last year we were delighted to host a workshop for the charity, giving their young people an insight into how the property market works.

What makes working in Bath special?

Bath has a brilliant mix of history and energy. It has beautiful Georgian architecture, Roman landmarks, and a welcoming community. You meet such a range of people here, from families who’ve lived in the area for generations, to people moving from further afield for a better pace of life, which keeps my job interesting and varied.

From a property point of view, Bath is a dream to work in: the homes are beautiful, demand is always strong, and every street has its own character. Add in the countryside on our doorstep and great transport links, and it’s easy to see why people love living here.

For more: 01225 474 500, www.savills.co.uk

People-centred, sustainable design is important to me. The Keynsham Recycling Centre project embodied these values for the community.

Our collaborative work for B&NES earned us the 2025 South West Constructing Excellence award. While we celebrate the recognition, personal growth meant even more to me. The project coincided with both qualifying as an Architect and the onset of the COVID pandemic.

The brief was to consolidate several complex operations into a single, efficient site. As Project Architect, working with SRA colleagues, we led a team that prioritised collaboration across all disciplines and client groups. Learning from all those around me, I saw my architectural theory into practice. The project proved to be foundational to my career.

“PEOPLECENTRED, SUSTAINABLE DESIGN IS IMPORTANT TO ME” both roles.

SRA culture promotes mutual support. Our Fika session, taking occasional coffee breaks or walks with Associates, build supportive relationships.

I use them to talk openly about balancing parenting and an architecture career.

What is your approach?

Listen. Challenge. Refine. Enjoy.

This is our Creative Approach.

After 10 years at SRA, I can say with confidence that we truly care about the people we work with and design for.

For more: Ashley Avenue, Bath, BA1 3DS, www.sra-architects.co.uk

How does your firm look after employee’s mental health?

As a B Corp, we foster a work-life balance, knowing it benefits staff wellbeing and productivity.

From a young age, I aspired to be an architect; a journey that required years of dedication and sacrifice.

When I started my family, balancing work and home became challenging, but SRA’s flexible hours, hybrid working, and social activities have enabled me to navigate

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Dedicated to finding the most secure, long-term outcome for separating and divorcing clients

Family transitions, including divorce, are difficult.

Protecting what matters most in uncertain times

The way you divorce or resolve your family matter shouldn’t add to the turmoil. Many people who come to us are looking to reach settlements that protect the best interests of both them and their children, for the long term.

Call, Skype, FaceTime Richard Sharp to find out how our experienced family lawyers can guide you towards a constructive outcome that enables you and your family to move on with life.

Bath 01225 448955/ 07798 606740 4 Queen Street, Bath, BA1 1HE richard@sharpfamilylaw.com

Office also in Bristol www.sharpfamilylaw.com

BSc MRICS Chartered Surveyor Mark Vincent Surveying provides surveying advice on residential properties primarily across North Somerset, Bath and North-East Somerset and West Wiltshire. As a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and with experience of properties ranging from modest studio apartments through to multi-million pound country estates, Mark’s advice is impartial and provides peace of mind to his clients.

Operating in and around Bath, Bradford-on-Avon, Frome, Midsomer Norton, Shepton Mallet, Warminster, Wells & Westbury – Mark provides a wide range of services related to the condition of residential property, including: • Homebuyers reports • Building Surveys Mark is independent of estate agents and financial institutions which means he gives unbiased advice and can offer complete peace of mind with RICS Approved Professional Indemnity Insurance cover.

mark@mvsurveying.co.uk 07922 557100 | 01225 581591 www.mvsurveying.co.uk 1-07, 3 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath BA1 2FJ

It’s all about peace of mind…

Bath based since 1992

SPONSORED CONTENT BUSINESS SERVICES AVOCADO PRINT & EMBROIDERY Lloyd Minear, Founder

Avocado Print & Embroidery is a one-man business based in Bath, offering high-quality print and embroidery services.

Established in 2024 by Lloyd Minear, who brings over 20 years of experience in the print and personalised gift industry, the company specialises in supplying promotional goods and workwear. With a focus on precision and customer service, Avocado Print & Embroidery delivers personalised, professional solutions for businesses seeking standout branded workwear and promotional goods.

How has the firm adapted to stay relevant?

Avocado Print & Embroidery has adapted to stay relevant by focusing on speed, flexibility and personalisation. Drawing on my 20 years of experience, I offer exceptionally quick turnaround times, no minimum order quantity requirements, and a wide range of products.

This allows me to deliver a truly fully personalised experience for every client, from small runs of promotional goods to customised workwear.

What makes working in Bath special?

Working in Bath is incredibly special to me. I relocated in 2024 after falling in love with the city. It had always been my getaway city whenever I needed to relax for a few days, and I felt something was always pulling me towards Bath. Since relocating, it has genuinely made me feel like a different person – calmer, happier and far more inspired.

The historic surroundings and peaceful atmosphere create a calm, creative energy that flows straight into my work.

This unique vibe helps me run Avocado Print & Embroidery with more passion How was your firm founded and who by?

Avocado Print & Embroidery was founded by me, Lloyd Minear. After many years working my up in the Print Industry, I lost my job during the pandemic. While on furlough, I decided to invest into my own equipment and slowly built up a small business supplying personalised gifts and workwear to the Horse Racing community. That experience gave me the confidence and push to launch Avocado Print and Embroidery and work with more businesses For more: info@avocadoprint.co.uk, www.avocadoprint.co.uk

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SPONSORED CONTENT MACDONALD BATH SPA HOTEL

BATH & WEST FIRE & SAFETY LIMITED Steve Milne, Director

Established in 1991, Bath & West Fire & Safety is a familyrun firm with over 30 years of experience in the fire protection industry. Specialising in fire detection, prevention, and maintenance, they provide a comprehensive range of services including fire alarm installation, fire extinguisher servicing, risk assessments, and PAT testing.

The firm is managed by partners Stephen Milne and Darren Dicker, leading a dedicated team of professional, non-commissioned fire safety engineers. With a headcount of approximately 5–10 staff members, they serve local businesses and domestic properties across Bath, Wiltshire, and surrounding areas, maintaining a reputation for excellence and expert consultancy.

Name a rising star in the firm

At Bath & West Fire & Safety, we are proud to name Joel Cooper as our rising star (pictured right).

Joel joined us as an apprentice in September 2025 and has quickly become an indispensable part of our team. At just 18 years old, he demonstrates supreme confidence and style, showing a “nothing is a no” attitude and a genuine eagerness to take on any task. He is fantastic with our customers and works capably alongside every one of our engineers. Joel’s ability to learn

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from mistakes and his proactive nature in asking questions make him a stand-out talent, and we have significant longterm plans for him as a valued member of the team.

Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel is one of Bath’s most iconic luxury hotels, set within 7 acres of landscaped gardens just a short walk from the city centre. Part of the Macdonald Hotels & Resorts collection, the hotel offers elegant accommodation, a luxury spa, award-winning dining and a variety of event spaces. The hotel specialises in luxury stays, weddings, corporate events and celebrations. Supported by a dedicated events, hospitality and spa team, Macdonald Bath Spa combines historic charm with modern service to deliver memorable guest experiences.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

What truly sets us apart is our commitment to providing a professional, non-commissioned service.

At Bath & West Fire & Safety, our engineers are focused on providing honest consultancy and the best value for money rather than meeting sales targets. We pride ourselves on the robust client base we have built through word-ofmouth recommendations and our long-standing reputation for excellence across Bath, Wiltshire, and Somerset.

How has the firm adapted to stay relevant?

To stay at the forefront of the fire safety industry, we constantly invest in the development of our team. At Bath & West Fire & Safety, we actively offer apprenticeships to bring new talent into the sector and ensure our staff are trained in the latest safety technologies. Our engineers regularly attend training sessions to enhance their skills, allowing us to provide cutting-edge solutions, such as wireless fire detection systems, that meet the evolving safety requirements of both modern and heritage buildings.

For more: 01225 868199, steve@bathwestfire.co.uk

Our setting truly sets us apart.

Few venues in Bath combine a grand historic building, extensive gardens and flexible event spaces all in one location.

Whether guests are visiting for a luxury stay, an escape to Bath, a wedding celebration or a corporate event, we focus on delivering a personalised experience supported by an experienced team who understand the importance of detail and hospitality.

“FEW VENUES IN BATH COMBINE A GRAND HISTORIC BUILDING, EXTENSIVE GARDENS AND FLEXIBLE EVENT SPACES”

What makes working in Bath special?

Bath is an extraordinary city to work in. Its heritage architecture, vibrant cultural scene and thriving hospitality sector make it a wonderful place to welcome visitors from across the UK and beyond. Being able to host such memorabile stays in this beautiful destination makes our work particularly rewarding.

For more: Sydney Road, Bath, BA2 6NS, 01225 476811, www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/ourhotels/macdonald-bath-spa-hotel/

SPONSORED CONTENT CITY TAILORS (BATH) Ben Aydin

City Tailors is an independent tailoring and clothing alterations business specialising in suit alterations, bridal alterations, repairs, restyling, and made-to-measure.

Established in 2010, our Bath studio is staffed by six experienced tailors and fitting specialists. We work with local professionals, students, and occasionwear clients, offering appointment fittings as well as selected walk-in services.

In April 2025 we opened our Brighton branch, which is growing strongly, taking our standards of fit, finishing and customer care to a wider audience.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

We blend traditional craftsmanship with a modern, service-led experience: calm fittings, clear advice, and quality control at every stage.

Clients trust us with tricky fits, delicate fabrics and timesensitive work because we focus on precision and consistency.

We also aim to make tailoring feel approachable—explaining options, trade-offs and timings so customers can choose with confidence.

Tell us about the firm’s commitments to and policies for sustainability?

We champion circular

“WE REGULARLY TRANSFORM PIECES PEOPLE WOULD OTHERWISE DISCARD INTO WARDROBE STAPLES THEY’RE PROUD TO WEAR AGAIN”

fashion—repairing, resizing and redesigning garments so they’re worn for longer.

Extending a garment’s life is often the most sustainable option, so we prioritise alteration over replacement, minimise waste through efficient cutting, and advise customers on care and longevity. We regularly transform pieces people would otherwise discard into wardrobe staples they’re proud to wear again.

What plans does the firm have for 2026?

We’re improving customer updates, booking and job tracking, and expanding peakseason capacity for bridal and formalwear—while protecting the hand-finished quality City Tailors is known for.

For more: First Floor, 25 Milsom Street, Bath BA1 1DG, 01225 920263, www.citytailors.co.uk

FIERO MARKETING CONSULTANTS Polly Hill, Managing Director

Derived from the Italian for “proud,” Fiero celebrates our clients’ unique value by “Turning Whispers into Echoes.” Owned by Marketing Strategist Polly Hill, we provide a 100% tailored alternative to corporate agencies, focusing on lead generation and measurable sales growth.

Our comprehensive service ecosystem integrates elite professionals across: • Strategy: SEO, data management, and workshops.

• Creative: Graphic design, photography, and print advertising.

• Engagement: Social media, PR, and website design.

• Development: Mentoring and public speaking.

We do the heavy lifting to fatten your pipelines, ensuring your specific story reaches the right people without the corporate nonsense.

What is the firm’s ethos and philosophy?

Fiero’s core philosophy is defined by the mantra: “Turning Whispers into Echoes”. The name “Fiero” translates to “proud,” reflecting a deep commitment to celebrating the unique value each client brings to the marketplace. The firm operates on a philosophy of providing a

100% personalised experience that bypasses corporate complexity to focus on clear, impactful storytelling.

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

Fiero distinguishes itself through its bespoke, strategyfirst approach and a flexible staffing model. Unlike traditional agencies, Fiero acts as a dedicated partner that manages both the strategy and the “critical legwork” required to fatten lead-generation pipelines. We offer fixedparameter costs with no hidden extras and a rigorous focus on tracking ROI, ensuring that clients can be fully confident in their investment.

How was your firm founded and who by?

The firm was founded and is currently owned and directed

by Polly Hill. It was established as a strategic alternative to corporate marketing firms, motivated by Polly’s desire to share the knowledge and confidence gained from over 20 years of industry experience with small businesses and startups. Her goal was to create a firm that prioritises the client’s voice, ensuring their message is delivered to the right people with maximum impact.

For more: 2 Winsley Road, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1QR, 07712 474856, polly@fiero.uk

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Property expertise with a personal service, tailored to you

ROSIE MARLOW

PROUD FINALIST

01225 941008 | rosiemarlow.co.uk

SPONSORED CONTENT HERITAGE HOSPITALITY Description of the business

Bath’s Historic Venues manages the private hire of four distinctive event spaces in the heart of the city: the Roman Baths & Pump Room, the Guildhall, the Temple of Minerva & Botanical Gardens and the Victoria Art Gallery. Set within Roman, Georgian, Victorian and inter-war buildings, our venues offer memorable backdrops for corporate events, from postwork receptions and networking evenings to formal dinners and largescale celebrations.

FLORESCO MEDIA Floresco Media is a digital advertising agency in Bath and Bristol. One of our core specialisms is working with professional services firms to help them build awareness and acquire new customers across platforms like Google, Microsoft, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

Founded in 2025 by Sally Hunt and Harriet Barter alongside Dan Fallon, Greg Ingham, and Jane Ingham, and our team is quickly growing. Together, the team brings decades of experience working with businesses in the professional services sector.

What challenges are your clients facing?

The biggest disruptor in the ad industry right now - and all industries - is AI. The ground is moving beneath our feet, so helping our clients make sense of the shifting landscape and showing them where to focus attention is both the biggest challenge and the biggest opportunity.

What makes working in Bath special?

Bath and Bristol are both vibrant cities known for their strong creative and digital advertising sectors. There are industry events weekly,

Tell us about your community/charity involvement

“THE BIGGEST DISRUPTOR IN THE AD INDUSTRY RIGHT NOW – AND ALL INDUSTRIES – IS AI”

which is great for developing partnerships and staying at the forefront of what’s possible with advertising. And, of course, both cities are a hotbed of brilliant talent and home to a strong hub of professional services firms.

When organisations host an event with us, they’re supporting the conservation of one of the UK’s most iconic heritage sites. Income from venue hire helps preserve The Roman Baths’ internationally significant collection and contributes to essential services across Bath & North East Somerset. As a redistributive business, once we’ve invested in the care of our historic properties,

remaining profits help fund social care initiatives for vulnerable children and adults.

The Roman Baths also plays an active role in the community hosting programmes that promote wellbeing and social connection.

What sets the business apart from others in its sector?

What sets us apart is the combination of unique, quintessentially Bath settings and a highly supportive events team who guide clients from planning to delivery.

In addition, sustainability is central to our approach - at The Roman Baths, we use a heatpump system that captures energy from the thermal waters, minimise electricity consumption, send zero waste to landfill, and host our website on green energy. Our caterer, Searcys, was chosen for its strong sustainable ethos, with locally sourced produce, ethically produced tea and coffee and carbonneutral Champagne, all without compromising on quality.

For more: Bath’s Historic Venues bathvenues.co.uk enquiries@bathvenues.co.uk 01225 477786

What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?

Most marketing agencies offer paid media as one line on a long menu. We do one thing and do it properly. This specialism results in deeper platform expertise, tighter budget management, and honest, transparent reporting on what’s driving results. We also understand professional services; the longer sales cycles, compliance sensitivities, and the need to build trust before a customer is ready to get in touch.

For more: www.florescomedia.com

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Elec bike tric sale

35% brands including:

www.takechargebikes.co.uk bath@takechargebikes.co.uk 1 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath BA2 3EH 01225 789568

SPONSORED CONTENT LEADERSHIP DIALOGUES

Steve Wyatt, Founder Leadership Dialogues is a forum for discussing the theme, ‘Leadership as a Force for Good’, founded by Steve Wyatt who is Professor of Leadership at the University of Bath School of Management.

Leadership Dialogues takes place on Wednesday 1st July 2026 at The Forum in Bath and is now in its third year.

What inspired you to start Leadership Dialogues?

MYTTON WILLIAMS Mytton Williams is a B Corp branding agency founded in Bath 30 years ago. We’re a small studio with a personal, ‘no-fluff’ approach, working with big companies as well as start ups, locally, nationally and internationally.

What achievement is the firm most proud of?

We’ve won awards for creativity and effectiveness which we’re incredibly proud of. The most rewarding part of what we do is probably working with companies to help them to step up to the next level.

How has the firm adapted to stay relevant?

A lot has changed over three decades, but the fundamentals haven’t. Strong thinking, clear ideas and memorable creativity still matter most. We’ve evolved with the tools and technologies that affect how brands are created and seen. We’re thankful to be based in Bath – connected to a diverse and inspiring creative community that constantly pushes our thinking forward.

“STRONG THINKING, CLEAR IDEAS AND MEMORABLE CREATIVITY STILL MATTER MOST”

What is the firm’s ethos and philosophy?

It sounds simple but we listen carefully to what our clients actually need and we make work we’re all proud of.

Ultimately, we want to do good work for good people.

For more: 1–4 Daniel Mews, Bath BA2 6NG, 01225 476 476, www.myttonwilliams.co.uk

The idea goes back to my time living in Singapore. I was struck by the disconnect between the negativity often portrayed in the media and the reality I saw - people tackling real issues and making meaningful progress.

Their stories rarely cut through.

When I moved to the UK just before COVID, that gap felt even wider. Despite the challenges, I kept meeting people doing purposeful work, often quietly. Leadership Dialogues was created to highlight those stories, build a community around them and champion the belief that leadership - wherever you sit - can be a force for good. The event is about inspiring people, helping them inspire others and creating a supportive community.

it’s something that we DO. We launched Leadership Dialogues as an opportunity to hear from great leaders, an opportunity to share your own stories with one another.

When you talk about ‘leaders’, who are you talking about?

Leadership isn’t defined by job titles. You can lead a business, a classroom, a charity, a community - or simply yourself.

What matters is intent.

Why did you choose Bath to host this event?

The aim of Leadership Dialogues is simple: to bring powerful stories to Bath, grow a supportive community and create ripples of positive impact that reach far beyond the day itself. Around half the 400-500 visitors are from the BathBristol region, a quarter from the Thames Valley corridor and the rest travelling from across the UK and overseas.

For more: 1st July 2026 at The Forum in Bath, info@leadershipdialogues.co.uk, www.leadershipdialogues.co.uk

What challenges are business leaders facing at the moment?

Leadership in today’s context of hyper-speed, complexity and uncertainty is difficult - polarised views and antagonistic or aggressive media or social media all add to the challenge. There’s little point in looking back to the models that have gone before - that time, those events, those ways of operating and all disappeared. And we can’t look to the future because no-one knows what’s around the corner. So, the best we can do is look to the present, the examples of great leaders in the current situations - what are they achieving and how are they achieving it? Leadership is not a theory, it’s a practice,

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SPONSORED CONTENT

INHERITANCE TAX ON LIFETIME GIFTS Helen Starkie from HELEN STARKIE SOLICITOR explains…

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ost people I see professionally are already aware that their estates may be subject to inheritance tax when they die if their estate is over a certain value.

Many also have some idea that there is a ‘seven year rule’ of some kind relating to gifts they have made before they die and that they can give gifts of £3,000 inheritance tax free each year. However, most are confused about how the various rules and figures they have heard apply and relate to one another – and few seem to know anything about one allowance in particular (which is in many ways the most useful of all). So here is an outline of inheritance tax basics which I hope you may find useful as an aide memoire.

The following gifts (whether made during the lifetime of the donor (the individual making the gift) or on his or her death) are not liable to inheritance tax.

• Gifts to a spouse or civil partner • Gifts to charities and national institutions • Gifts to political parties

LIFETIME GIFTS In any one tax year an individual may make any or all of the following gifts free from any liability to inheritance tax: • Gifts of up to £3,000. (The donor may also carry forward any unused allowance from the previous tax year – but only once – so if, for example, Bill made no gifts at all in 2012/13, gifts totalling £2,000 in 2013/14 and now makes a gift of £7,000 to Ben only £4,000 will be exempt from IHT – that is the allowance of £3,000 for the current year and the unused allowance of £1,000 from the previous one. He cannot carry forward any allowance from 2012/13 and has already used part of his allowance for 2013/14) • As many gifts of £250 each as he wishes to different recipients – so if Bill gave Ben another £250 now it would be liable to IHT. If Bill gave Weed two separate gifts of £250 in a year the first would be free from IHT; the second would not.

In the example above Bill’s £3,000 allowance for this year was offset against his larger gift to Ben. It is not possible to offset individual £250 gifts against larger gifts, so a gift by Bill of £400 to his mother would all be taxable if he

“MOST ARE CONFUSED ABOUT HOW THE VARIOUS RULES AND FIGURES THEY HAVE HEARD APPLY AND RELATE TO ONE ANOTHER” had already used his annual £3,000 allowance.

• A gift of up to £5,000 to a child of theirs who is marrying or entering into a civil partnership • A gift of up to £2,500 to a grandchild of theirs who is marrying or entering into a civil partnership • A gift of up to £2,500 between a bride and groom or a couple entering into a civil partnership or a gift of up to £1,000 to just one party to the marriage or civil partnership.

• (This is the exemption I find most people have not heard of – and is in many cases the most useful) any amount paid out of the individual’s income as part of their usual expenditure, provided that the individual is left with sufficient income to meet his or her own usual standard of living without having to resort to their capital assets. This exemption is often used, for example, in relation to the payment of school fees by grandparents.

Any gift made under any of these exemptions must be declared to the Inland Revenue

if the donor dies within seven years of making it but no IHT will be payable on it.

Any gift made during the seven years prior to the donor’s death which does not fall into one of the exemptions listed above will have to be taken into account when calculating the tax payable on the donor’s estate This is a thumbnail sketch of the basic rules.

It is not totally comprehensive. You should always seek professional advice in relation to your own specific circumstances if you are thinking of making gifts or taking any other action which may affect your tax position. n

Helen Starkie Solicitor 38 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2NT; 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 153

JUNE 17-18, WATERSHED

MINDSPA FOR ENTREPRENEURS Stimulation awaits Scan for tickets

Headline Partner Content Partners

Panel Partner

Albert Goodman S&W Doyle Clayton

Linkstone Advisory

SPONSORED CONTENT

How AI Personalisation is Changing Advertising

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I is both the biggest challenge and the biggest opportunity for many industries in 2026. And it’s no different for advertising.

Over the past couple of years, AI has ripped up the rule book on advertising, completely changing how we approach campaigns.

And the ground continues to move beneath our feet. Competition is intensifying across an increasingly fragmented ad landscape, with new players constantly entering the market (TikTok and ChatGPT in recent years).

As a result, costs are increasing, and audiences are becoming fatigued by repetition. Where increasing your spend used to yield better results, that is no longer the case.

AI AD BOOM But it’s not all doom and gloom. The advertising industry is booming, growing around 11% in 2025. Performance is still there to be found, driven by the possibilities of AI-powered

personalisation and a move away from the one-size-fits-all campaigns.

Instead of serving the same ad to thousands, platforms now use realtime signals like browsing behaviour, conversion data, and engagement history to dynamically match messages to individuals. The result - in theory - is advertising that is tailored and helpful rather than intrusive, with budgets naturally flowing toward the people most likely to convert.

A HUMAN TOUCH This isn’t about humans giving the advertising reins over to AI. Not yet, anyway. It’s about changing how

BRANDS THAT TRUST US

businesses think about their role in an ad campaign.

More and more, success depends on feeding platforms the right raw materials: creative variants to test, clean data, and accurate conversion signals. This is the lifeblood of ad campaigns in 2026, and when you get the foundations right, AI can take you to new heights.

If you’re still holding firm on AI, now’s the time to let go. The direction is set; personalisation and efficiency are the factors that influence success, and you can’t possibly win against the machines.

If you’re not already making a move, it’s a conversation you need to have sooner rather than later. If you want to have it with us, just reach out below.

FREE AI ADVERTISING AUDIT For a new perspective on your digital advertising. www.florescomedia.com hello@florescomedia.com

We’ll review your current advertising campaigns and provide a short report highlighting opportunities to improve performance through AI-driven personalisation.

Scan the QR code to request your free audit. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 155

SPONSORED CONTENT

CELEBRATING WOMEN IN BATH

AWDRY LAW colleagues celebrate inspiration for International Women’s Day

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wdry Law Solicitors Jeanie and Lauren recently had the pleasure of attending the Bath Rugby Foundation International Women’s Day event, an inspiring afternoon dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of women across sport, business and the wider community. Hosted at the elegant The Ivy Bath Brasserie, the event brought together professionals from across the region for an afternoon of conversation, inspiration and celebration.

From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. The event was extremely well organised and provided a fantastic opportunity to connect with others while reflecting on the importance of recognising women’s achievements.

Guests were greeted with a lovely arrival drink courtesy of Bath-based company The Canned Wine Co. adding a local touch to the afternoon and helping to create a relaxed and sociable setting.

A highlight of the event was hearing from guest speaker Amy Williams, who shared her inspiring journey to Olympic success. Amy famously won gold for Team GB at the 2010 Winter Olympics, becoming the first British athlete to win an individual gold medal at a Winter Olympics for 30 years.

During her talk, Amy spoke candidly about the determination, resilience and mindset required to compete at the highest level. Her story was both motivational and entertaining, delivered with honesty and humour as she reflected on the challenges she faced along the way and the lessons she learned throughout her career.

The afternoon perfectly captured the spirit of International Women’s Day, celebrating the achievements of women while encouraging conversations about empowerment, ambition and opportunity. It was a wonderful event to be part of and a fantastic reminder of the strength of Bath’s community and the inspiring individuals within it.

To find out more: www.awdry.law

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Exceptional creativity: recognised, rewarded To b� involv�d, contact: in�o@cr�ativ�bath.org

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SPONSORED CONTENT

LEADERSHIP DIALOGUES RETURNS TO BATH IN 2026 WITH AN EXCEPTIONAL LINE-UP OF SPEAKERS LEADERSHIP DIALOGUES will return to Bath for its third consecutive year on Wednesday 1st July 2026

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ooted in the principle of using Leadership as a Force for Good, the event brings together delegates from diverse backgrounds to explore how each of us leads in our own way. Through the five pillars of intentional leadership, attendees will discover practical approaches to driving positive change in everyday situations creating impact through personal accountability that benefits communities, organisations and society as a whole.

An inspiring line-up of speakers has already been confirmed, including Charles Mindenhall, Co-Founder and CEO of Blenheim Chalcott; Minnie Moll, Chief Executive of the Design Council; Neil Pearse, Managing Partner of McKinsey’s Leadership Practice; Deborah Hale MBE, Founder of Start a Fire and former Head of International Marketing for London; Dr Krish Kandiah OBE, social entrepreneur and broadcaster; Joanne Dewar, fintech social entrepreneur; Victoria Humphries,

“THROUGH THE FIVE PILLARS OF INTENTIONAL LEADERSHIP, ATTENDEES WILL DISCOVER PRACTICAL APPROACHES TO DRIVING POSITIVE CHANGE IN EVERYDAY SITUATIONS”

adventurer and CEO of the Royal Photographic Society; and host Professor Steve Wyatt.

The event provides a dynamic platform for meaningful connection and thoughtprovoking discussion, featuring keynote addresses, expert talks and interactive workshop sessions. Leadership Dialogues 2026 offers a valuable opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and be inspired by a shared vision of purposedriven, values-led leadership.

Designed for 300+ delegates, the day combines powerful, story-led presentations from experienced leaders with afternoon breakout workshops.

These smaller sessions enable participants to collaborate with peers and, guided by expert facilitators, explore practical ways to create greater impact within their own sectors.

Mark your calendar for Wednesday 1st July 2026 in Bath! Individual delegate passes are now available, and there are opportunities to get involved through group bookings, hospitality packages or sponsorship. To learn more and book delegate passes, including optional lunch packages, visit www.leadershipdialogues.co.uk.

Wednesday 1st July 2026 Venue: The Bath Forum, Bath, U.K. www.leadershipdialogues.co.uk

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SPONSORED CONTENT

FOR THE HOME Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for winter

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.

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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

Bath’s leading fireplace, wood burner, gas fire, chimney and flue specialist. From classic to contemporary, concept to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include Chesneys, Barbas Bellfire, Westfire, Stovax, Gazco and Hunter. Get in touch or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7HD; info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk; Tel: 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

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SANDRIDGE STONE is a local craft-skills

business specialising in all aspects of building and restoring local Bath Stone properties. It can supply and fix all stone requirements for new builds or extensions.

The team’s heritage skills qualified stonemasons are also expert in repairing and restoring existing stone on listed properties in order to fulfil planning requirements. Boundary Farm, Berryfield, Melksham SN12 6EF; Tel: 01225 703733; www.sandridgestone.co.uk

NO17 INTERIORS 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

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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. It’s about attention to detail at every stage – creating a beautiful space that enhances the way you live. 7-9 North Parade Buildings, Bath BA1 1NS; Tel: 01225 312003

Clair Strong Interior Design is a boutique, creative company based in Bath, providing a wide range of services for both residential and commercial clients. Her 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;

A bespoke, tailor-made, client-focused interior design consultancy service 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

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 www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 161

BATH LIVES

“I am rather against regret” and a retreat for meditation, writing, and art.

The four people I would have loved to have met are

Freud, Jung, Rachmaninov and Vaughan Williams. People I would least like to meet are Putin and Donald Trump – two monsters.

My most prized possession is Andrew pictured in Jung’s Garden

my large library of books that I have been collecting for 57 years.

I am rather against regret.

ANDREW JAMIESON

From music to the mind, and becoming a published author at 72 For 35 years Andrew has helped bring three leading Russian orchestras to play the UK every season. In parallel with his 50-year career organising classical music concerts, Andrew trained as a psychotherapist 25 years ago. He had his first book published at the age of 72, and his second, On the Couch: Twenty Extraordinary Personalities from Picasso to Putin, is just out. In it, he explores the lives of 20 wellknown individuals through the lens of ten of the most important psychotherapeutic ideas and theories. Andrew is married with three daughters, two grandchildren, and has lived in Bath since 1997.

I was born in Portsmouth and come from a service family.

My father was a naval officer who joined the Royal Navy at the age of 12 in 1933. He was away at sea a lot – there was one time we didn’t see him for a year. This put a lot of pressure on my mother,

162 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

who had to bring up my brother, sister and me on her own. It also meant we moved every two years.

I was a conscientious, diligent school child, but hated being

sent away to boarding school at the age of eight. I remember it being very traumatic, and I missed my family terribly. I got some comfort from the fact that I proved to be a successful student.

In 1991 I set up Andrew Jamieson Associates. Since

then, in partnership with the US company IMG Artists, we are the UK’s leading importer of foreign symphony orchestras, organising up to nine major UK tours a year, including the International Concert Series at Cadogan Hall, London.

Soon after having our three daughters, we left London and

moved to Bath because we found the city so beautiful, and we also wanted to send our children to one of the excellent local schools.

One of the most memorable concerts I have ever attended was the Siberian Symphony Orchestra’s performance of

Prokofiev, Rachmaninov and Tchaikovsky in Omsk. I booked them immediately for a UK tour but the pandemic and then Putin’s invasion of Ukraine means it has yet to happen.

I began training as a psychotherapist at the Bath Centre for Psychotherapy and Counselling in 2001 and

now have a psychotherapeutic practice, working with up to 12 clients each week.

I had my first book published when I was 72 years old. Part

of my psychotherapy training had involved writing an MA dissertation on the midlife crisis, and this became the subject for that book – Midlife: Humanity’s Secret Weapon – published by Notting Hill Editions in 2022.

I have always been an admirer of Carl Jung, as my

own therapist had Jung as her therapist and her husband was the editor of Jung’s collected works. In 2019, I canoed up Lake Zurich and was able to visit Jung’s famous Bollingen Tower.

This was the ‘home of his soul’

I feel that regret about the past and anxiety about the future affects detrimentally our present wellbeing.

Bath doesn’t have suburbs, it has satellite villages. We are

fortunate to live in one of these villages, just 10 minutes from the most beautiful city in the UK. I love having lunch at the Wheatshead in Combe Hay.

The food is excellent, and to sit in their beautiful garden overlooking the lovely valley below is the best possible treat on a fine sunny day.

My secret Bath is Partis College. This architectural

gem, built in 1825, is hidden away in Newbridge. It is like a small, intimate Oxford college, a set of low Georgian buildings surrounding a delightful lawned quadrangle.

Andrew will be appearing at the Bath Royal Literary & Scientific Institution on 16 April, speaking about his new book On the Couch: Twenty Extraordinary Personalities from Picasso to Putin (Notting Hill Editions, £13.99) For more: www. nottinghilleditions.com

Visit our showroom 130 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BG | 01225 951223 enquiries@sandjbath.co.uk | sandjbath.co.uk

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f the Year 202

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