Bath Life – issue 317

Not long ago, in a square not far away…. @BathLifeMag ISSUE 317 / 8 JULY – JULY 22 / £3

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 317 / 8 JULY – JULY 22 / BOULES WARS

WHY LUCY PORTER L O V E S B AT H

D I S C O V E R B AT H ’ S MARVELLOUS MUSEUMS

TA K E I T O U T S I D E : B AT H ’ S B E S T AL FRESCO SPOTS

L U X U R I AT E I N A L O C A L S PA

In other words, it’s the Bath boules issue again!

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 317 / 8 – 22 JULY 2016

16

REAL STEEL

See all the action from the Bath Boules Fest

Battle of the boules For one long weekend last month, Queen Square was awash with Breton stripes, painted faces and, as you can see from our cover, lots of fancy dress fanatics (the Star Wars team –The Farce Awakens – won the best dressed competition, obviously). It was all in the name of competition and charitable-giving, as visitors and locals alike got seriously spirited over a sport we Brits aren’t exactly renowned for. If you missed out on one of the highlights of the city’s sporting calendar, the gripping and suspenseful Bath Boules, you can relive the friendly pandemonium from page 16.

Having spent most of our time basking in the (intermittent) luscious weather, eating fabulous street food from boxes and sipping on Pimm’s, it reminded us how much we love actually being outside in this city. And so that we can make the very most of it, we’ve devoted much of this issue to getting out and about in Bath and beyond.

We’ve been touring our favourite open-air eateries (page 66), shopping for al fresco wines (page 74), museum-hopping in the sun (page 35) and, because it’s important to factor in some ‘me’ time, discovering the South West’s most luxurious spas (page 84). We’ve also been chatting to comedian Lucy Porter (page 56) on everything from meeting the entire Bath Rugby team to her brand new midlife crisis-inspired show which she’s bringing to the city later this month.

Enjoy the sun!

Lisa Evans, Editor Follow us on Twitter: @BathLifeMag

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FEATURES / ISSUE 317 / 8 – 22 JULY 2016

56

INTERVIEW

Comedian Lucy Porter talks to us about getting older, loving Bath, having babies and being funny

35

Museums

Take our guided tour around the city’s best museums

REGULARS / ISSUE 317 / 8 – 22 JULY 2016

THE ARTS 45 Arts intro We’re loving the atmospheric landscapes by Andrew Crocker

46 What’s on Time to get social and update the events diary

66

M E ET T H E T EAM Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Thomas Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Nic Bottomley, David Flatman, Ben Franks and Becky Rogers Senior advertising manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Justine Walker justine.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Sales executive Drew Toynbee andrew.toynbee@mediaclash.co.uk Sales executive Sophie Speakman sophie.speakman@mediaclash.co.uk

61 Bookshelf Nic Bottomley’s latest literary selection is just for kids

FOOD & DRINK 62 Restaurant

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Christina West christina.west@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Charlie Pinder charlie.pinder@mediaclash.co.uk

We’re in the know at The Locksbrock Inn

66 Al fresco dining Yes, we took it outside - to some of the best outdoor restaurant and café spaces in the city

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Steve Hawkins steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk

74 Wine Ben Franks’ summer choices

Bath Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash

77 Food & drink news Mary Berry, kids cook, Neston Farm and The Dark Horse

© All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

SHOPPING 78 Editor’s choice Our accessories are the cream of the crop

80 Fashion Style goes carnival crazy

LIFEST YLE 84 Health and beauty We bring you the inside story on a selection of Bath’s most luxurious and lovely spas

BUSINESS

DEPARTMENTS

93 Business insider

13 Spotlight 16 Scene 33 A man’s world

News, views and interviews from the region’s business world

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury.

We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag).

Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help.

Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

PROPERT Y 104 Property showcase We take a longing look around the eco luxe Birch House

On the cover Bouling stormtrooper photo by Becky Rogers. See page 16 for our boules picture special

BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES

Can I take some home for my mum?

Say cheese, Cleese

AWARDS

John Cleese was awarded an honorary degree by the University of Bath in recognition of his contribution to the field of psychology and psychological literature.

The actor and comedian, who has co-authored two books on relationships, became a Doctor of Clinical Psychology at Bath Abbey on 28 June in a ceremony attended by HRH Prince Edward The Earl of Wessex.

“I am delighted that this honour should come from my favourite English city,” says the Fawlty Towers and Monty Python star, “The university was founded just as I began my career as a writer, and its psychology department has an outstanding reputation for research and teaching.”

Also receiving honorary degrees from the university were legendary footballer and founder of Find a Better Way landmine charity Sir Bobby Charlton, and Lord Foster who, from 1992 to 2015, served as the MP for Bath.

For more: www.bath.ac.uk

T050

PHOTO BY DERRYN VRANCH

AND NOW FOR SOMETHING FOR COMPLETELY DIFFERENT…

CHARITY

A PRINCESS CALLS Dorothy House celebrated its 40th birthday last month with a very special guest of honour.

The Princess Royal, who has supported the hospice charity since 1987, arrived at the Winsley headquarters to greet patients, carers, volunteers and its supporters.

During her visit on 21 June, Princess Anne attended a garden party where she gave a short speech praising the charity’s quality of care, the support it offers and its pioneering

spirit over the years. She also thanked the organisation, saying, “It has been a pleasure to part of that journey, and I hope I will be there to see many changes you go through.”

The princess also opened Dorothy House’s new exhibition and film which highlights the charity’s work over the last four decades and will tour to 15 venues across the region this summer.

For more: www.dorothyhouse.org.uk

SPOTLIGHT

LITERATURE

BOOK GROUP David Walliams, Tom Gates creator Liz Pichon and Olympic athlete and cyclist Chris Hoy are just three of the exciting names coming to Bath in October for the Bath Children’s Literature Festival.

This will be David Walliams’ first visit to the festival, where he will talk not just about his bestselling books, which include Gangsta Granny, The Boy In The Dress and Ratburger, but also his incredibly varied career as an

actor, comedian and presenter.

Also attending is the acclaimed multiaward-winning Michael Morpurgo, author of War Horse and Kensuke’s Kingdom, comedian and author Julian Clary and CBeebies stars Sam and Mark.

The annual festival is now in its 10th year and has brought more than 2,500 authors and illustrators events to the city.

For more: www.bathfestivals.org.uk

Come on, I’ll race you!

MARATHON

IN THE RUNNING

Clockwise from left: Chris Hoy; David Walliams; Liz Pichon

The Vitality Bath Half, which is one of Bath’s most celebrated dates in the city’s diary, has announced Bath Life as its new official media partner.

“We are delighted that Bath Life will be supporting next year’s Vitality Bath Half Marathon on 12 March 2017,” says race director Andrew Taylor from Running High Events. “It’s a natural partnership between Bath’s largest sporting event and the city’s inspirational and carefullycrafted magazine.”

With more than 15,000 runners taking part in the two-lap 13.1 mile course, the Bath Half, as it is affectionately known, is the biggest charity fundraiser in the South West, raising over £2million in 2016, and benefiting over 130 local and national charities.

For more: www.bathhalf.co.uk

Adventures in party-going

SCENE AC ROS S B AT H , O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

BOULE AND THE GANG It was three days of friendly battles, the finest food, fancy dress and a très-bien French vibe when Bath Boules came to town. Residents, businesses, the young, the old, the chefs, the traders and the indies all joined forces to raise money for local charities. The roads around Queen Square were closed to allow an estimated 2,000 visitors and 192 teams to attend.

Even before Le Bunk-Off Friday the fun started in the form of the Creative Bath shindig. To all those who came, saw and sponsored, including Withy King and Novia, we raise a glass to your community spirit, your involvement and your boules technique. Same time next year, oui?

Photos by Rich Howman and Paolo Ferla www.richhowman.com; www.ferlapaolo.com

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

B AT H B O U L E S 2016 The Prezola team

Ph o t o s b y R I C H H OW M A N Pippa Russell

The Organic Cake Company team

Mark Vincent Surveying team

Kane Palma-Newport

The Pimm’s team

Chris Kane and Chris Howard

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

B AT H B O U L E S 2016 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 Ph o t o s b y R I C H H OW M A N

Playing the long game

Western Building Consultants players

GO2 IT and DMC Canotec

The Fabulous team

Xxxxxx

The Projivity team

Bride-to-be Asha Hartland and her flock of hens

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

Head over heels

B AT H B O U L E S 2016 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18 Ph o t o s b y R I C H H OW M A N

The Bath Rugby Passing Target

Withy King team

Fantasy Faces face painting The Nash Partnership team

Referees Chris Garratt, Andy Briggs and Trevor Coles, with the Lovehoney coq massif mascot

The Farpoint team

Les Redwood

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

B AT H B O U L E S 2016 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 Ph o t o s b y PAO L O F E R L A

Stride Treglown team

Bath Gin players

Half Moon Bay players

Les Redwood, Greg Ingham and Friday’s winners The Harington Club Hoare Lea team

Hobsons Choice team

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

PHOTO BY STEPH DODD

Vino Vino team

Celebrating

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We’re proud to say it’s our tenth anniversary and, to celebrate, we’re launching a brand new look!

We want to say a huge thank you to the people and businesses of Bath for helping us over the last ten years – your support has been fantastic.

more. Meanwhile, our business guests have been able to experience a home-from-home, residential retreats and interim relocation homes.

We’ve been thrilled to offer Bath Holiday Rentals guests a place to enjoy; family celebrations, romantic weekends, girlie reunions, quality family holidays and

As our portfolio of more than 60 luxury 4* and 5*gold self-catering properties continues to grow, we’re excited about what the future holds for Bath Holiday Rentals.

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B AT H B O U L E S 2016 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22 Ph o t o s b y PAO L O F E R L A

Lennie Hughes

The Bath Boules bar team

PHOTO BY ANDREW DODD

John Slater

The Health and Beauty Centre team Andrew Brownsword Hotels team

The Queen Square marquee

Sub 13 players

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

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SOCIETY

CREATIVE PEOPLE As over 500 creatives from all over Bath gathered in Queen Square to enjoy The Creative Bath Summer Party, which was sponsored by Anthem Publishing, Lovehoney and Ordoo, it was announced the online community hub, who promote the creative sector, run events, and connect people and companies in the region, are launching the Creative Bath Awards next June.

Photos by Dean Tune www.soul-media.co.uk

Suzanne Cardash and Paul Crowsley

Jenny Cook.Emma Simpson and Anna Scrivenger

Annie Wallis and Amanda Wood

Martin Badder

Hayley Bull Jonathan Nickell and Rupert Dembrey Della Oliver and Pippa Moss

Hannah Williams Alison Watson and Carys Richards

Jason Coward, Deri Robins and Kyle Phillips

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 27

SOCIETY Bob Buckland and Beverley Woodward

GOING ON TOUR

Jonathan Stubbs and Delaram Moin

The accountancy, investment management and tax firm Smith & Williamson were joined by their clients, colleagues and contacts for a private behind-the-scenes tour at The Roman Baths, with drinks and canapĂŠs served in the Pump Rooms.

Photos by Chris Daw www.chrisdawphotography.com

Jane Ashworth and Priscilla Faleye

Ben and Natalia Tarrant

Lorri Newton, Nick Carter and David Newton

Philip and Alex Lemanski Justin Ogilvie and Imogen Hilton-Brown

Caroline Bruce, Ben Jones and Jo Jones

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

SOCIETY

AFTER A FASHION

Lucy Bryan

Graduating fashion design students from Bath Spa University brought their collections back to Bath, having presented them at Graduate Fashion Week in London. The annual catwalk show, held in the Assembly Rooms, showcased their designs, as well as a selection of undergraduate work from the Fashion Design degree, using catwalk models from key London agencies.

Photos by Derryn Vranch www.derrynvranch.com

Ella Mash

Hayley Webber

Alexandra Carroll

Gemma Smith

Sarah Moore

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

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A MAN’S WORLD

DAVID FLATMAN

LET’S GO OUTSIDE When it comes to chowing down in the sun, Flats reckons you can’t beat a barbeque in your own back garden…

E

ating outdoors is one of the great pleasures in my life. This is mainly because I’m quite fat and therefore generally too warm, and outside is where one can find breezes and, on a good day, even a chilly wind. This means that summer has never really been my favourite season when it comes to al fresco dining, as the very benefit for which I love it, is so often absent.

However, there are two things that do make summer garden meals all the more enjoyable. One is that the English weather so often lets us down, hereby offering this hefty specimen some blissful relief from the Saharan Bath heat. Also, warmer weather makes other people infinitely more likely to join one out on the terrace. This increase in numbers has its pros and cons, but overall it does tend to be rather pleasant.

I realise that I have a certain responsibility to the city of Bath and its many hard-grafting restaurateurs to recommend a handful of establishments at which to spend your money and keep the local economy buzzing, but the truth is that my favourite outdoor eatery is my back garden. We have nice enough views and it’s pretty quiet where we are, but that’s not really it. It’s not money either, as putting on a barbecue for a group of mates and their families last weekend cost me hundreds of pounds. The main reasons are both the joy of producing food and serving it to people you treasure, as children run and scream and play and trip and cry, and that I can, as it’s my house, cook barefoot in a crappy old pair of rugby shorts and a beefstained T-shirt.

Ruining the odd joint of meat through a lack of culinary talent and preparing seven times more food than we could possibly consume is

part of the fun – and it’s always fun. Last weekend it rained, on and off, for the whole day. But who cares? The ladies went inside first, the blokes stuck it out for a while, and the kids didn’t give a monkey’s. That’s the thing with your garden: your house is right next to it.

As for produce, I like to buy my meat either from Terry & Son at the top of Walcot Street if I’m in the city, or from Walter Rose & Son in Trowbridge (yes, I sometimes go to Trowbridge and guess what, it’s ok down there...) if I’m over on the Bradford side. Neither of these places has ever sold me a dud bit of meat, and they’re worked by lovely blokes, too. Please, if you’re a supermarket meat buyer, do try a proper butcher. You won’t regret it.

And for vegetables and fruit, I like to pop to Castle Farm on Midford Road. It’s earthy, it’s friendly, and it’s totally relaxed. Also, it’s usually best to take a full cream tea while you decide what to have. Their beautiful little Jack Russells will keep you company as you chomp. Really, it’s the sort of environment that’ll put a dent in your reliance on supermarkets. You’ll love it.

I love an almond croissant and a strong coffee outside the Bertinet Bakery near the station, and I’ve recently enjoyed some stunning lunches in The Porter’s simple, cool outdoor area. If I’m knocking about town or having meetings with friends or colleagues, these are the places I’ll go. If I’m not, I’ll be slow-cooking a giant beef brisket in the garden in my underpants. If that doesn’t stoke your appetite, nothing will.

I’LL BE SLOWCOOKING A GIANT BEEF BRISKET IN THE GARDEN IN MY UNDERPANTS

David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on Twitter @davidflatman

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MUSEUMS

ARTS

BELIEVE it or NOT

We visit Bath’s best museums and discover the mind-blowing, the bizarre and the downright horrid w The pink, ornately gilded spiral staircase at Beckford’s Tower and Museum

By L I SA E VA NS

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

ARTS

MUSEUMS

Y

ou can have a very pleasant time in Bath just wandering around, admiring its peerless Georgian architecture without ever needing to set foot inside a building. But the city offers much else besides. Here we delve into the deep, dark crevices of the region’s famous, hidden and anonymous museums, and discover some huge surprises – from Jurassic sea monsters to four-billion-year-old collections.

So, are you ready for an adventure? Come and take our virtual treasure trail tour…

THE MASONIC MUSEUM AT THE OLD THEATRE ROYAL

Why it’s amazing: It might be an understated building in a quiet backstreet of this sparkling city of architectural gems, but behind the door is a unique 265-year history. “The building came into being in 1749 and has had three life times,” says historian Malcolm Toogood. “It was the first provincial Theatre Royal in the country, then it was a Catholic chapel where bishops were ordained, and finally a Masonic Hall.”

Expect to find: One of the most extensive collections of Masonic artefacts in the country.

Be fascinated by: A memorial stone from a burial (when the building was a chapel between 1809 and 1863). It’s for Cecile Agathe Adelaide Riquet de Caraman, the Marquise de Sommery, whose father was Governor of Provence under Louis XV.

Its oldest item: A silver Masonic trowel presented to The Bear Inn Lodge – one of the oldest Masonic lodges in England – in Bath in 1742.

Bath Life’s must-see: The Masonic Temple. It was originally the auditorium of the theatre, some aspects of which still remain – such as one of the stage boxes from 1774.

What’s coming up: In 2017, special exhibits will mark the 300th anniversary of the founding of The Grand Lodge of England.

12 Old Orchard Street, Bath; www.oldtheatreroyal.com

THE VICTORIA ART GALLERY

Why it’s amazing: Its collection covers three centuries of British paintings and sculptures, from Gainsborough and Constable to Sickert and Turner. Also, expect to find 1,500 decorative art treasures, including glittering Bohemian glass and ceramics.

Its history: The gallery opened to the public in 1900. It was founded by Bath resident Arabella Roxburgh who left £10,000 in her will to be spent on an art gallery.

Fall in love with: The museum’s quirkiest piece – Lady Hare on Dog. “It’s a bronze sculpture by Sophie Ryder which is embedded with recycled bits of machinery and toys,” says gallery administrator Sue Lucy. “The piece is so well-loved by visitors that the dog’s nose has become shiny through repeated stroking.”

The oldest piece: The Adoration of the Magi by Hugo van der Goes, an oil painting from between 1420 and 1482.

Bath Life’s must-see: A bust of William Harbutt by Edwin Whitney-Smith, 1880-1952. “Harbutt invented plasticine here in

The Old Theatre Royal is a treasure trove of unexpected delights

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

MUSEUMS

ARTS

Sitting in the heart of the city, the Roman Baths is one of the bestpreserved Roman remains in the world

Bath in 1897. Whitney-Smith modelled the bust in plasticine before having it cast in bronze.”

Look forward to: A Kenneth Armitage Centenary Sculpture exhibition, followed by local artist Peter Brown’s exhibition of A Bath Painter’s Travels.

By Pulteney Bridge, Bath; www.victoriagal.org.uk

NO. 1 ROYAL CRESCENT

Why it’s amazing: It’s one of the finest thermal spas of the ancient world, built 2,000 years ago around the country’s only hot springs. Inside the Roman museum, audio guides and computer animations bring the experience to life.

Its oldest artefact: A palaeolithic axe which is about 500,000 years old.

Be fascinated by: The Beau Street Hoard which was found not far from the museum. The 17,577 Roman coins were found in 2007 in eight separate money bags. It’s the largest trove found in an archaeological excavation.

Be surprised by: The curse tablets, with messages inscribed on sheets of lead or pewter, which were rolled up and thrown into the spring as messages for the goddess.

Bath Life’s must-see: The Great Bath – the original Roman bathing pool.

ONCE CAUGHT, THE MICE WERE SKINNED AND THEIR FUR WAS USED TO MAKE FALSE EYEBROWS

Why it’s amazing: This was the first house to be built on The Royal Crescent and is the only way to see inside a grand Georgian townhouse in Bath, decked out as it would have been 240 years ago.

Its most shocking item: The wall-mounted dog wheel in the kitchen. “It was an early West Country method of getting meat to turn on a spit in front of the open fire,” says the museum’s marketing and communications manager Janey Abbott. “The dog ran in the wheel, which turned the meat, and if it didn’t run fast enough, the cook would drop hot coals into the bottom of the wheel so that it had to speed up to avoid getting burnt feet.”

Most gruesome items: “An ivory wigscratcher to get at the nits under the Georgian women’s greasy wigs; and mousetraps. Once caught, the mice were skinned and their fur was used to make false eyebrows.”

Oldest piece: An oil painting by Eglon van der Neer, signed and dated 1674.

What’s on: The current exhibition (until December) is Indulgence: Daily Delights of Georgian Bath. See how Bath’s visitors enjoyed life to the full with plenty of eating, dancing, gambling and flirting.

No. 1 Royal Crescent, Bath; www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk

THE ROMAN BATHS

Abbey Church Yard, Bath; www.romanbaths.co.uk

LACOCK ABBEY, FOX TALBOT MUSEUM AND VILLAGE

Why it’s amazing: The abbey began as a nunnery, then became the Victorian location for the invention of photography, and now, with its furnished rooms, wooded grounds and a beautiful cloister surrounded by a quintessential English village, it’s a popular film location. The onsite Fox Talbot Museum explores the history of photography – the legacy of Lacock’s William Henry Fox Talbot, inventor of the world’s first photographic negative.

The oldest item: The abbey itself, which was founded in 1232.

Be fascinated by: The Oriel window in the South Gallery that was captured in the world’s first photographic negative.

Quirky fact: The abbey’s iconic, medieval cloister has featured in many famous productions including Harry Potter, Wolf Hall and The Hollow Crown: The Wars of the Roses.

Bath Life’s must-see: The metal cauldron in the Warming Room.

“Visitors often think it’s a prop from the filming of Harry Potter,” w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 37

ARTS

MUSEUMS

says marketing and communications officer Alana Wright. “But it’s actually over 500 years old.”

What’s on: The Hollow Crown (until September) – an exhibition of costumes from The Hollow Crown: The Wars of the Roses including those worn by Benedict Cumberbatch, Keeley Hawes and Sophie Okonedo.

Lacock near Chippenham, Wiltshire; www.nationaltrust.org.uk

AMERICAN MUSEUM IN BRITAIN

Why it’s amazing: It’s the only museum of Americana outside the United States and is filled with American decorative pieces and fine art.

Expect to see: Galleries devoted to Native Americans and folk art as well as period rooms, dating from 1690 to 1860, set up as if a family has moved in.

Its oldest item: Two bird stones dating from 400-500BC. They were said to be used by Native Americans as weights to improve the performance of hunters or spear throwers.

Items which will inspire: “We bow our heads to the story of Nancy Burns,” says marketing manager Helen Masters. “Born into slavery in 1800, but somehow emancipated, Nancy married into the Van Cortlandt family. Unusually, a portrait was commissioned of Nancy by the Van Cortlandts, which we can only assume shows the tribute to her worth the family had for her. This portrait is on display alongside the headscarf Nancy wears in it.”

The quirkiest piece: “The sausage gun in Conkey’s Tavern has fired the imagination of our visitors the most.”

What’s coming up: The American Toy Story exhibition (until October). It displays toys that inspired, and were inspired by, blockbuster Hollywood movies over the generations.

Claverton, Bath; www.americanmuseum.org

Beckford’s Tower stands today as the only surviving example of William Beckford’s great architectural achievements

The American Museum in Britain is packed with folk art and decorative pieces from the US

BATH ROYAL LITERARY AND SCIENTIFIC INSTITUTION

Why it’s amazing: From Jurassic sea monsters to Medieval seal matrices, the BRLSI has a myriad of treasures.

Its oldest item: At over four billion years old, a piece of meteorite at the museum is one of the oldest objects on Earth.

This was part of a small planet broken up during the formation of our solar system.

Bath Life’s must-see: The life and work of The Remarkable Miss Breton, a Bath-born Victorian explorer of Maya ruins.

Be fascinated by: An ostrich plume from the hat of the Duke of Monmouth – the figure head of the The Monmouth Rebellion.

“Following the failed attempt to depose James II in 1685, the Duke swapped hats with his surgeon by way of a disguise,” says collections manager Matt Williams. “It failed and he was captured and executed. The hat survived however, and it was passed down as a family heirloom.”

Be surprised to find: A dolphin skull from Twerton. Over 125,000 years ago, a dolphin swam up the River Avon and got beached at high tide on a bank at what later became Victoria Gravel Pit. 16-18 Queen Square, Bath; www.brlsi.org

BECKFORD’S TOWER AND MUSEUM

Why it’s amazing: You’ll discover the treasures of one of England’s greatest collectors, enter the private retreat of an eccentric Gothic novelist and explore one of Britain’s most unusual architectural treasures.

What’s its history: The elegant, golden-topped, neo-classical Beckford’s Tower was built by Henry Goodridge in 1827 as a retreat for the writer and eccentric William Beckford. Beckford created magnificent buildings in which to store his extraordinary art, furniture and book collections. Today the tower houses a museum dedicated to him.

Bath Life’s must-see: The tower’s pink, ornately gilded, spiral staircase. Climb it to see panoramic views of Bath’s landscape setting.

What else: At the foot of the tower is the Victorian cemetery, once part of Beckford’s pleasure garden, where both he and Goodridge are buried.

Lansdown, Bath; www.beckfordstower.org.uk 38 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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Bath Postal Museum

Bath Postal Museum

Bath Postal Museum 27a Northgate Street, Bath, BA1 1AJ e info@bathpostalmuseum.org t 01225 46033 Registered Charity Number: 277419

It's First Class!

ARTS

MUSEUMS

MUSEUM OF BATH ARCHITECTURE

Why it’s amazing: Here you’ll find out how Georgian Bath was built, discover the Gothic chapel constructed to reform the sinners of Bath and see the anatomy of the city’s townhouses hidden behind elegant facades.

Expect to find: 18th century building tools as well as maps and models which all explain how a small walled town of 2,000 inhabitants has grown into the beautiful and elaborate city we live in today.

Don’t miss: The Redesigning Bath During the Great War exhibition – see the dramatic plans for Bath which never happened because of the First World War.

DISCOVER THE GOTHIC CHAPEL CONSTRUCTED TO REFORM THE

The Countess of Huntingdon’s Chapel, The Vineyards, Paragon, Bath; www.museumofbatharchitecture.org.uk

SINNERS OF BATH

THE HERSCHEL MUSEUM OF ASTRONOMY

Why it’s amazing: It’s the only museum which tells the story of music and science in Georgian Bath. You can stand where Uranus was first seen by telescope in 1781 and visit the intimate, fully restored home of the famous astronomer William Herschel and his

A room of intrigue at The Herschel Museum of Astronomy

comet-chasing sister Caroline.

Be fascinated by: Flagstones that shattered when Herschel’s workshop exploded… with him inside.

What else: Visit the exquisite Georgian garden and watch In the Star Vault – an award-winning film – which takes you on a voyage of discovery through the universe and brings the history of the house to life.

Don’t miss: The Astronomical Community of Downside Abbey exhibition (until December).

19 New King Street, Bath; www.herschelmuseum.org.uk

THE MUSEUM OF BATH AT WORK

Why it’s amazing: You’ll discover the commercial development of Bath over 2,000 years and how its residents have earned a living up to the present day.

Its oldest item: A collection of Roman tools and a rotary quern for grinding flour.

Be surprised by: A display of 312 local stories – presented by people from all parts of the city. They include ghost stories and tales of escaped kangaroos and outbreaks of smallpox.

Bath Life’s must-see: A reconstruction of an entire Bath factory engaged in metal-working and soft drinks-making from the 1860s to the 1960s. There’s no other collection like it in Britain.

Quirkiest piece: A very early production model of a Dyson vacuum cleaner made for James Dyson whilst he was living in Bathford, and when his business first started.

What’s coming up: In 2017 you’ll find an exhibition celebrating 120 Years of the invention of Plasticine – by William Harbutt in Bath.

Julian Road, Bath; www.bath-at-work.org.uk

BATH POSTAL MUSEUM

Why it’s amazing: Here you can undertake a 4,000-year journey following the written word from ancient Egypt to ‘space mail’ and find original artefacts on display including post horns, clay tablets and a replica of a Victorian post office.

Its history: “It opened in 1979 in the basement of a house my husband and I purchased in Great Pulteney Street especially for this purpose of creating the museum” says Audrey Swindells MBE. Be surprised by: Their Crash collection, which features postal items which had either sunk to the bottom of the sea or had been burnt on a mountain top and yet, after retrieval, were safely delivered in their dried and battered state.

The oldest item: A message written on a clay tablet which is 4,000 years old.

Bath Life’s must-see: A Penny Black, which was issued by Great Britain as the first stamp in the world on 6 May 1840.

27a Northgate Street, Bath; www.bathpostalmuseum.co.uk

FASHION MUSEUM, BATH

Why it’s amazing: There’s a world-class collection of historic clothing dating back to 1600, and contemporary fashion is also represented in the Dress of the Year collection, from designers such as Mary Quant and Craig Green.

Be fascinated by: The world-famous Silver Tissue Dress (1660), so called because of its fabric of fine silk woven with silver w 40 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

MUSEUMS

ARTS

A bird’s-eye view of a Bath building model at the Museum of Bath Architecture

SEE THE ANATOMY OF THE CITY’S

TOWNHOUSES HIDDEN BEHIND ELEGANT FACADES

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 41

MUSEUMS

thread. It’s thought the dress originally belonged to Lady Theophilia Harris.

What else: See the 18th-century Ball Room, Tea Room, Great Octagon and Card Room with their glittering chandeliers.

Don’t miss: The current Dress of the Year Collection including catwalk fashions from 1963 to the present, and A History of Fashion in 100 Objects – the major exhibition celebrating fashion from the 1600s to the modern day.

Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath; www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

SALLY LUNN’S HISTORIC EATING HOUSE

Why it’s amazing: You get to eat a piece of history in one of three dining rooms. The menu offers historic refreshments based on the original Sally Lunn Bun – still baked to a secret recipe. It also has its own museum which has some of the only remains of medieval Bath on display.

Be surprised by: Its faggot burning oven which new archaeology suggests dates back to the 1100s.

ARTS

DON’T MISS THE HISTORY OF FASHION IN 100 OBJECTS EXHIBITION

CELEBRATING FASHION FROM THE 1600S TO THE MODERN DAY

The Sally Lunn Buns are a secret recipe

1740s brocade silk robe at the Fashion Museum, Bath

Bath Life’s must-see: The cellar’s stalagmites and stalactites.

One to try: A savoury version of a Sally Lunn Bun – think ham hock and homemade piccalilli.

Did you know: “The Sally Lunn Bun is the original Bath Bun and is best served hot as it was in the Pleasure Gardens in Georgian Bath.,” says owner Jonathan Overton. “When we recreated this for the Great British Bake Off, we filled the gardens with an aroma that explained clearly how they came to be so popular.”

North Parade Passage, Bath; www.sallylunns.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 43

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Music/theatre/film/more

LIGHTNING FORCE Not sure why we were drawn to This Mathmagician by Andrew Crocker; maybe because it reminds of us of recent summery scenes at Glastonbury and Wimbledon.

His work, which has been shown at Beaux Arts for over 15 years, is often rooted in tradition, yet conveys the mystery, drama and emotional tension of the modern day.

The formal grandeur of his panoramic skies and rolling countryside subscribes to the conventions of English landscape painting, but by populating the vistas with incongruous figures and contemporary allegory, he gives them a freshness and warmth. It is said people don’t just own Andrew Crocker’s paintings, they fall in love with them and treasure them.

This Mathmagician by Andrew Crocker can be seen at Beaux Arts, 12-13 York Street, Bath until 27 August; www.beauxartsbath.co.uk

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9 July – 6 August

Stranglers’ vocalist and guitarist Hugh Cornwell is hanging around the Smoked & Uncut festival; Join the talented illustrator Matt Jeanes at the American Museum for a drawing workshop on 27 July; George Clinton, along with Parliament Funkadelic, lands his psychedelic funk mothership on the world music stage of Womad

Exhibitions UNTIL 16 JULY

IAN EDWARDS Ian Edwards’ figurative sculpture work is of dramatic strength and movement, expressing the determination of human endeavour, such as Self Made Man where a figure carves himself out of a mass of rock, reminiscent of Michelangelo’s idea of seeing a form within a piece of marble and setting him free. Bath Contemporary; www.bathcontemporary.com UNTIL 23 JULY

EARTH & SKY Award-winning local artist Emma Rose exhibits a new collection of original art, limited-edition prints and canvas prints. Using Indian

inks and acrylics, she produces vibrant and distinctive studies of landscapes, both real and imagined, including the stunning Nothing Is Ours Except Time. The Galleries, Freshford; www.emmaroseartworks.com UNTIL 30 JULY

IN SEARCH OF CORNISH LIGHT A mecca for artists particularly throughout the past hundred years, the Cornish peninsula offers not only spectacular landscape and coastal vistas, but also a special quality of Atlantic light unique to that part of the British Isles. This exhibition by four painters who have all, at some point of their career, migrated to Cornwall, captures the essence of light and effect of coastal atmosphere that continues to inspire so

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

many painters today. David Simon Contemporary; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com UNTIL 31 JULY

STITCH BY STITCH An exhibition of beautiful, contemporary, handmade textiles from India and Nepal, which are the brainchild and design of Graham Hollick.

One Two Five Gallery; www.onetwofivegallery.co.uk UNTIL 27 AUGUST

THE SUMMER EXHIBITION: PAINTING Rostra Gallery has kicked off their Summer Exhibition with a fantastic new collection of paintings from some of the most exciting established and emerging artists working today.

This is a chance to see some original pieces using a variety

of media including oil paint, acrylic and collage from artists such as Marc Heaton, Richard Burel and Glyn Macey. Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk UNTIL 31 AUGUST

SUMMER SHOW Rock‘n’roll and blues music feature heavily in this exhibition by local artist Nick Cudworth, inspired by his early career when he played piano in a band called Siren during the 1960s.

Nick Cudworth Gallery; www.nickcudworth.co.uk UNTIL 4 SEPTEMBER

A ROOM OF THEIR OWN: LOST BLOOMSBURY INTERIORS An assortment of artistic treasures from the 1920s are brought to life by recreating the famous Bloomsbury rooms, with

W H AT ’ S O N

works by Roger Fry and Duncan Grant, including his portrait of Vanessa Bell, who was the painter and interior designer sister of Virginia Woolf. Many of the exquisite objects and paintings, amassed from private and public collections, have not been seen together for over 50 years. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk UNTIL 4 SEPTEMBER

CARLOS ZAPATA: CARNIVAL Carlos Zapata was born in Colombia in 1963 and currently lives near Falmouth, Cornwall.

Self-taught, his painted wood carvings belong to, and take inspiration from, folk and tribal arts from all over the world.

His work, which is in museums around the world, reflects both his experience of living in a foreign country, and life in Colombia where a civil war rages on relatively unnoticed by the outside world. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk UNTIL 1 OCTOBER

THE REMARKABLE MISS BRETON Produced in collaboration with Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, this exhibition celebrates the life and works of Victorian archeologist, artist, explorer and Bathonian Adela Breton, who is best known for her watercolour copies of the wall paintings of Mexican temples, which have been an invaluable contribution to archaeological records. Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution; www.brlsi.org UNTIL 13 OCTOBER

1ST WORLD WAR ACTS OF KINDNESS This exhibition, funded by the Heritage Lottery, reflects upon the day-to-day life at the Bath War Hospital and offers the opportunity to explore the concept of compassionate community support, and the comfort that this brought to recovering soldiers, as well as insight into how such relationships support treatment and wellbeing. RUH Bath; www.artatruh.org UNTIL 27 NOVEMBER

PLANNING FOR PEACE While Great Britain was in the middle of the First World

ARTS

War, architect Robert Atkinson designed an extraordinary project to redevelop the city of Bath. His incredible neverbuilt designs, which included an amphitheatre, a huge war memorial and a concert hall, are explored in this fascinating exhibition. Were they really going to demolish the beautiful Georgian buildings, or was it all an elaborate ruse to distract people from the misery of war? Museum of Bath Architecture; www. museumofbatharchitecture. org.uk UNTIL 11 DECEMBER

DAILY DELIGHTS OF GEORGIAN BATH Using Thomas Rowlandson’s famous 1798 satirical etchings, The Comforts Of Bath, as inspiration, the more decadent side of Bath is celebrated.

This exhibition explores the rich amusements Bath had to offer such as dinners with 20 different dishes and card games where £10,000 could be lost in one sitting. There is also a collection of exquisite and expensive trinkets visitors often treated themselves to in the city’s ‘toyshops’, including a tiny ivory cage used for keeping a pet cricket. No. 1 Royal Crescent; www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk UNTIL 12 FEBRUARY 2017

RED – CULTURE, HISTORY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP Have you ever wondered why the colour red is so important to Asian culture? This new exhibition explores the many different aspects of the colour red in Chinese culture, from the materials used to produce red to the symbolism of the colour, and the rapid advancement of red wares during the Ming dynasty.

Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk UNTIL 1 JANUARY 2018

A HISTORY OF FASHION IN 100 OBJECTS The Fashion Museum presents 100 ‘star’ objects that illustrate a history of fashion from the 1600s to the present day, referencing moments in history, as well as more personal stories.

See an intricately-embroidered waistcoat worked in coloured silks and glittering metal thread worn by an aristocratic woman

Top to bottom: It’s all Much Ado About Nothing with The Lord Chamberlain’s Men; The Museum of East Asian Art’s new exhibition celebrates the colour red

from the time of Shakespeare, then fast forward 300 years and see an appliqué embroidered jacket by Paris couturier Lucien Lelong, worn by Gone With The Wind actress Vivien Leigh in 1948; Fashion Museum; www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

Fearing that scandal will tarnish her beloved son’s memory and reputation, Sebastian’s socialite mother seeks the help of the inscrutable Dr Cukrowicz to silence Catharine. 7.30pm, £12. Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk

Plays/shows

13 – 30 JULY

12 – 16 JULY

SUDDENLY LAST SUMMER The Next Stage Theatre Company present Suddenly Last Summer by Tennessee Williams, which tells the dark story of Catharine Holly who appears to have gone insane after witnessing her cousin Sebastian’s death under mysterious circumstances.

WHEN THE SUN SHINES On the eve of his marriage to Lady Elizabeth, the Earl of Harpenden makes the mistake of allowing a drunken American lieutenant to spend the night in his apartment. What follows in this Terence Rattigan play, starring Michael Cochrane, is classic mistaken identities and crossed wires farce. £36.50-£15.

Bath Theatre Royal; www.theatreroyal.org.uk w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 47

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15 – 17 JULY

MOON PRINCESS Set among the ancient trees of Prior Park Landscape Gardens, this is a captivating retelling of the traditional Japanese tale of the Moon Princess, who was discovered as a baby growing inside a plant. An immersive experience, which combines aerial acrobatics, live music and storytelling to create a truly memorable experience. £8.50/£7.50. Prior Park Landscape Gardens; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 5 – 6 AUGUST

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING The popular outdoor Shakespeare company, The Lord Chamberlain’s Men, make a welcome return with their allmale cast to Dyrham Park just outside Bath, with the bard’s sparkling story of trickery, treachery and true love.

6.30pm, £16.50/£9.50. Dyrham Park; www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Music

Clockwise: Ian Edwards’ Self Made Man can be seen at the Bath Contemporary; Folk singer Hattie Briggs brightens up Chapel Arts Centre on 23 July; Red Bridge by Richard Burel is part of the Rostra’s Summer Exhibition

10 JULY

22 JULY

FESTIVAL CHORALE OREGON The visiting American choir from Salem, Oregon, was formed in 1979 and is now an ensemble of 100 professional and amateur singers. The performance will consist of a wide variety of styles of American choral music including shaker, gospel and contemporary. A collection will be made after in support of Genesis Trust. 4pm, free.

St.Michaels Without Church; www.stmichaelsbath.org.uk 16 JULY

HELLO I’M JOHNNY CASH West End star Lars Young – renowned and critically acclaimed for his show-stopping performances as Roy Orbison and Gene Vincent – showcases his astonishing vocal talents and remarkable versatility by becoming his musical hero, the Man in Black Johnny Cash, in a superb tribute that features favourite hits including Ring of Fire, Walk The Line and Folsom Prison Blues. 8pm, £15. Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org

THE DARKSIDE OF PINK FLOYD This established touring band are dedicated to the accurate reproduction of the best Pink Floyd live experience – from an atmospheric light and video show to perfectly executed tracks including The Wall and Echoes. 8pm, £18.50. Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

23 JULY

HATTIE BRIGGS Gloucestershire-based singersongwriter and musician Hattie Briggs, who quit in the second year of her Russian language degree at Oxford University, will be performing her folk-and-jazz inspired songs from her second studio album Young Runaway and her acclaimed debut Red & Gold.

8pm, £12. Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org

22 – 24 JULY

COCK & BULL FESTIVAL Whether you like your sounds loud or quiet, fast or slow this event, organised by the charity Jamie’s Farm, has something for music lovers of all genres, including Balkan gypsy folk mayhem with Sheelanagig, and mesmerising harmonies from Auclair. The food available is cooked on site by the Jamie’s Farm team, with all the profits from the tickets, bar and food stalls going straight to their amazing cause of working with disadvantaged children. Hill House Farm, Box, Wiltshire.

For more details and pricing information, visit www. cockandbullfestival.co.uk

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23 – 24 JULY

SMOKED & UNCUT With VIP glamping, a campfire dinner from Angela Hartnett, goodie bags and luxury loos on offer, no wonder this music and food event bills itself as quite possibly the most select and civilised small festival in the UK. Providing the music is a proper line-up of big names including The Stranglers’ Hugh Cornwell and Turin Brakes.

The Pig near Bath, Pensford. For full details of tickets and pricing, visit www.smokedanduncut.com 28 – 31 JULY

WOMAD Founded back in 1980, this music event remains one of the strongest,

most exciting and original festivals in the UK. Their commitment to presenting excellent, passionate and individualistic music and embracing all genres and geographical origins is once again reflected in their eclectic and inspiring line-up which includes John Grant, Roots Manuva, Charles Bradley and the phenomenal George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic.

Charlton Park, Wiltshire.

For more information, visit www.womad.co.uk 6 – 14 AUGUST

BATH FOLK FESTIVAL Bath Folk Festival, now in its seventh year, is not a traditional field-based folk festival. Instead concerts, dancing, storytelling sessions and workshops are held at a variety of venues across the whole city. There’s also a music summer school offering a variety of classes including the flute and fiddle. For more information visit www.bathfolkfestival. org w

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Family fun UNTIL 30 OCTOBER

ON THE WILD SIDE BY SIMON KING Longleat plays host to worldrenowned TV wildlife presenter, photographer and cameraman Simon King’s latest exhibition.

King has been concealing himself throughout Longleat’s animal paddocks during the winter, capturing unique images of the animals inside their world, from a never-seen-before perspective. To complement the safari park’s 50th anniversary celebrations, the exhibition will be included in the entrance fee.

Longleat; www.longleat.co.uk 12 JULY – 23 AUGUST

SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES There’s a whole series of fun and informative events and workshops at the Roman Baths, Fashion Museum and Victoria Art Gallery to keep little ones inspired this summer holiday, including a chance to dress up in toga and tunics, make a Roman soldier shield, explore the hot springs, design mini cross-stitch, construct puppets, draw imaginary sea monsters, create collages and model your own candle holder. For more information and pricing details, visit www.bathnes.gov.uk 15-16 JULY

BRADFORD ON AVON MINI BOOK FESTIVAL A two-day extravaganza of activities, discussions and artwork with book illustrators and local authors including Fleur Hitchcock, Maudie Smith and Angie Morgan to celebrate a summer of reading challenges.

Bradford on Avon Library; www.boambf.wordpress.com 20 JULY - 31 AUGUST

WILD WEDNESDAYS Every Wednesday on the Skyline in the school summer holidays, kids can go wild with den-building and mud-pie making at the Woodland Play Area, which also has climbing apparatus including wobble beams. 10.30am12.30pm, £1. Bath Skyline; www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Enjoy a weekend of great live music, the finest farm food and a party atmosphere all for a good cause at the Cock & Bull festival, organised by the team at Jamie’s Farm 27 JULY

UNTIL 31 AUGUST

Other

UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER

MATT JEANES Join professional artist Matt Jeanes and learn the secrets of bringing your own cartoon characters and illustrations to life. Matt has illustrated a wide range of famous characters, including Winnie the Pooh, My Little Pony, and Wallace and Gromit, as well working on well-known greeting card ranges. 10am-12pm, £10. www.americanmuseum.org

UNTIL 18 JULY

BENEDICTINE BATH FESTIVAL Explore over 1,000 years of Benedictine history and heritage, with displays of rare books and manuscripts at Bath Abbey, performances of Gregorian chanting, daily walking tours, hands-on activities at St Johns Hospital and family-friendly events all over Bath. For more details visit www.downside.co.uk

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TORCHLIT SUMMER EVENINGS The Roman Baths will be open until 10pm every evening in July and August. As darkness falls and by the light of flickering torches, you can explore the ruins of this vast and aweinspiring Roman building with its steaming magical waters, for an unforgettable and unique experience. For more information and pricing details, visit www.romanbaths.co.uk

16 JULY

BATH CARNIVAL Bath will be transformed with the sights and smells of South America, as a carnival procession makes it way around the centre of the city. The parade features school children, dance clubs, community groups and professional acts, setting off from Great Pulteney Street with the grand finale in Kingston parade. For more information, visit www.bathcarnival.co.uk 23 JULY

FRANKENSTEIN IN BATH It may have started in Geneva, but most of Frankenstein was written in Bath by Mary Shelley 200 years ago. This nightly walk takes you to all the unmarked places that tell Mary’s chilling tales including that of Mary’s half sister’s suicide, the real reason she came to Bath, and the secrets she was desperate to hide. The tour starts and ends at Rebecca’s Fountain by Bath Abbey. 7.30pm, £8, cash only. www.showofstrength.org.uk

THE COTSWOLD WAY MIGHTY HIKE This fundraiser is part of Macmillan’s marathon walking series this summer designed to raise money for the charity’s Cancer Support by getting people to put their best foot forward. Hundreds are expected to participate in this 26-mile beautiful hiking marathon along the stunning Cotswold Way, taking in picturesque villages and stately homes along the way. For more information about registration, visit www.macmillan.org.uk

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COMPETITION

WIN!

B

ath Racecourse is offering 50 Bath Life readers the chance to win a pair of racing tickets to its exclusive and stunningly appointed new Roof Garden on 20 July. The event will be celebrating the official opening of its new Langridge Grandstand, which marks the completion of the race course’s multi-million pound redevelopment programme.

At the top of the grandstand and set under an enormous sail-inspired canopy, the roof garden offers racegoers the perfect al fresco experience with a dedicated bar, summer grazing menu and spectacular views of the track, as well as the stunning

WIN!

Free racing tickets and enjoy a rooftop view at Bath Racecourse

A ROOFTOP VIEW AT BATH RACECOURSE Bath countryside. To ensure the comfort and relaxation of guests, capacity is strictly limited to 250 racegoers with access by special ticket only.

Named after a neighbouring village, the new Langridge Grandstand also includes a spacious public bar on the ground floor and a 200 seat fine dining race day restaurant and conference/event space overlooking the racetrack.

Certainly set to be the place to be seen this summer, your free tickets worth £50, include entrance to Bath Racecourse, race day programmes and exclusive access to the Roof Garden. Please note that smart dress code applies.

To enter, please answer:

Q. What is the new grandstand at Bath Racecourse called?

Send your answer to lisa.evans@ mediaclash.co.uk with ‘BATH COMP ENTRY’ as the subject of your email, by 14 July.

Full MediaClash terms and conditions are available on line

Terms and Conditions: Under-18s are not permitted to enter • No purchase necessary • Only one entry per household is permitted • The editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into • Prizes are not transferable • Employees of MediaClash and associate companies, their agents and members of their families are not permitted to enter • Names of winners will be made available upon request by email • Please state on your entry if you do not wish to receive occasional communications from MediaClash • This information will not be divulged to other organisations • MediaClash reserves the right to cancel or amend the competition or the rules without notice • In consideration for MediaClash including entries in the competition, each entrant hereby agrees that MediaClash may make any and all entries available on their website • MediaClash does not accept any responsibility for any damage, loss, injury or disappointment suffered by any entrant entering the competition or as a result of accepting any prize • Where a prize is being offered by a third party, MediaClash shall act solely as an intermediary between the prize provider and the winner • It is the responsibility of the prize provider to supply the prize to the winner • The prize is not valid with any other offer or promotion • No cash alternative shall be offered

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

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E P R O P E R T Y

THE WAIT IS NEARLY OVER House hunters in Bath are counting down to the release of the first new homes for sale at MULBERRY PARK – a prestigious development of contemporary homes on the southern slopes of the city

T

he long-awaited development of high quality homes is situated in the sought after neighbourhood of Combe Down. Offering the perfect blend of city and country living, Mulberry Park is within easy reach of both Bath’s vibrant city centre and the area’s stunning natural surroundings. With excellent local schools and attractive open spaces, Mulberry Park is a great place for all the family. The area will be further enhanced

“WE’RE REALLY EXCITED TO BE UNVEILING THE FIRST PROPERTIES”

by Bath’s first new park for 100 years, as well as a new primary school, children’s nursery and state-of-the-art community facilities due to open in 2018.

SPACIOUS HOMES IDEAL FOR FAMILY LIVING

The new homes at Mulberry Park are designed to suit contemporary living, with energy efficiency and comfort at their heart.

The first new homes will be available to reserve from 9 July. “We’re really excited to be unveiling the first properties in this fantastic scheme, says Lisa Howells, sales director at Curo. “With its unique location and the stunning contemporary designs of the homes, we expect a high level of interest.”

Four bed townhouse These light and airy four-bedroom homes are ideal for modern family living. On the ground floor an open plan kitchen diner opens through bi-fold doors to a generous landscaped garden. Upstairs, you’ll find an elegant master suite with en-suite shower room, three further bedrooms and a spacious family bathroom.

Each four bedroom home offers a single garage or parking for two vehicles.

Two bed These highly desirable two-bedroom homes offer thoughtfully designed space, both inside

and out. The Midford coach house offers lateral living with two good sized bedrooms, two bathrooms and an integral garage.

The Lyncombe mews property is arranged over two floors, a generous open plan living area on the ground floor. Two good sized bedrooms, the master of which boasts double doors that lead on to a private balcony.

To find out more come along to our sales launch on 9 and 10 July at Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel, Bath BA2 6NS. Images shown are computer generated images

To register your interest in Mulberry Park, contact us on the details below: 0345 140 5050 sales@curo-group.co.uk www.curo-sales.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 55

I love LUCY

Comedian Lucy Porter says she’s been to Bath “a gajillion times”

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

By L I SA E VA NS

IMAGE BY ANDY @ PHOTO FARM

Bath audiences are lucky enough to be one of the first to see Lucy Porter’s new show Consequences before she takes it to the world’s largest comedy festival – the Edinburgh Fringe – this summer. Here she talks midlife relections, carousing and loving Bath

COMEDY

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es, she may be a perennial favourite on TV shows like Mock the Week and QI and, yes, she may be no stranger to getting on stage in front of many thousands at the Hammersmith Apollo, but if there’s one place Lucy Porter looks forward to performing in, it’s Bath.

The comedian has visited the city, she mathematically deduces, “approximately a gajillion times”, and this month she’ll be heading back to hit us and astound us with her impeccably punch-lined anecdotes in her new show Consequences.

“It has always been a pleasure to come to Bath,” says the effervescent, whip-smart stand-up. “Whenever I’ve done shows in the city, I’ve always had a good time. I love absolutely everything about it, except the parking. I always take a trip to the spa in Bath; last time I was there I shared the rooftop pool with the entire Bath rugby team, which was unexpected but not unpleasant. I enjoyed reading all their tattoos.”

She feels that Consequences, which she’s bringing to Komedia on 25 July, will be her finest show yet.

“I think it’s the best I’ve done so far,” says Lucy. “Although, I always think that - it’s the only way to keep going I suppose. Other people have said they think it’s my best work too though, so I hope I’m not utterly delusional.”

It’s going to be full of personal revelations and cultural observations, apparently; expect to hear about everything from censorship and generational conflict, to home-brewing, Britpop of the 90s, falconry and Gary Wilmot.

A thorough and sundry mix, we feel.

“It’s kind of a midlife reflection show looking at all the ways life has changed since I started doing stand-up,” she says. “I was going to call it a midlife crisis show but it’s more a celebration of all the boring things I like now. Radio 2, National Trust properties and Countdown all feature heavily.”

And we Bathonians will be some of the first to preview the show before Lucy takes it to the world’s largest comedy festival, the Edinburgh Fringe, this summer.

“I don’t want to say how many years I’ve been going to the festival as it makes me feel ancient,” she says. “I do still love it though, it’s the highlight of my year. A bit less of a debauched month of drinking and carousing than it was in my 20s and 30s, but a lot more relaxing now.”

In general, she hasn’t got as much time for revelry as she used to; she calmed down, she says, when she started a family a few years ago.

After “banging out a couple of kids”, she now balances her tour

ARTS

3 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT LUCY

I ALWAYS TAKE A TRIP TO THE SPA IN BATH. LAST TIME, I

SHARED THE ROOFTOP POOL WITH THE ENTIRE BATH RUGBY TEAM, WHICH WAS UNEXPECTED BUT NOT UNPLEASANT

She’s a woman of hidden talents…

“I have started doing cross stitch. My latest one is of a dinosaur.”

Her interests may surprise you…

“Pub quizzes – they’re my number one hobby. I’ve done loads of the TV ones – most recently, Fifteen to One and Pointless. My main ambition is to compete on The Chase.”

She doesn’t mind a bit of controversy…

“If I were a queen for a day, I’d abolish the monarchy just for a laugh – it’s the most radical thing you could do isn’t it?”

dates with mumhood - a great mingling, she’s found, as her kids enkindle a cornucopia of comedic material.

“My children inspire me, of course, although this show is mostly about me - why should they get to hog the limelight?” she says wryly. “As a stand-up that’s the whole point of your life.

If it will generate anything I can talk about on stage, that’s the most important thing.”

She feels that becoming a mother also changed her professional outlook. While she used to suffer from stage fright, that has completely evaporated now, and when it comes to worrying about life in general, well, she just doesn’t have time for that kind of selfindulgence anymore.

“I’ve done something that was more scary [than getting in front of an audience]… childbirth and commitment and all those sort of things,” says Lucy. “So yeah, it’s made a huge difference to my psychological outlook on life and just the sheer pressure of time.

“I’m more ambitious now, I think, because I’ve got two extra mouths to feed,” she adds.

“Also, I don’t go away as much, but when I do I REALLY enjoy a night in a hotel. The way I juggle family and work is with constant stress, worry and guilt, just like everyone else.”

Even though she’s “constantly tired”, she still loves the enjoyable chaos of getting on stage in front of a sea of strangers. It was a career she happened to land in after realising that she was one of those accidently funny types who just couldn’t ‘do’ serious.

“I used to be asked to read out my stories in English class at school and people laughed even when I was trying to write something meaningful and poignant,” she says.

“So I thought I’d stick with trying to get laughs.”

We couldn’t let Lucy go without first getting her to share her favourite joke with us...

“What’s the difference between roast beef and pea soup?

Anyone can roast beef.”

Mic drop. w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 57

ARTS

COMEDY From left: Award-winning comedian Tom Allen; Brighton motor-mouth Seann Walsh; Welsh stand-up Kiri Pritchard-McLean

I

t’s not just Lucy P that you should be excited to see in Bath, a load of other funny people are on their way to Komedia in July and August to give us previews of their shows before they take them to the Edinburgh Fringe. Here are a few of our must-sees….

SEANN WALSH

Who is he? Charming, charismatic and a natural motor-mouth, Brighton’s Seann Walsh is billed as one of the most frighteningly precocious talents to emerge from the UK comedy circuit in ages.

Where’ve you seen him before? His assured delivery and self-deprecating silliness has seen him star on BBC1’s Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow and BBC2’s Mock The Week.

Expect him to say: “I live in London with my girlfriend. She’s a vegan. I had no idea there were so many vegetables; I used to just think there were peas and chips. She sent me to the shop the other day to get her a butternut squash, and then she got angry when I came back with three different things.”

See him on: 12 July

TOM ALLEN

Who is he? He’s a comedian, writer and actor who has won both So You Think You’re Funny in Edinburgh and the BBC New Comedy Awards in the same year. Since then he has honed his unique style of sharp, acerbic wit and riotous storytelling by performing to audiences around the world.

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

SHE SENT ME TO THE SHOP TO GET HER A BUTTERNUT SQUASH, AND GOT

ANGRY WHEN I CAME BACK WITH THREE DIFFERENT THINGS

Where’ve you seen him: He’s talked erotic novels on Channel 4’s 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, featured on Radio 4’s Just a Minute, and appeared on E4’s Bad Robots alongside Michael Gambon.

Expect him to say: “Gyms are intimidating.

At one end you’ll find the free weights section... and that’s where I have no business being. It’s for the bigger boys trying to get big arms – trying to turn their arms… into legs.”

See him on: 19 July

KIRI PRITCHARD-MCLEAN

Who is she? The Welsh stand-up is known for her topical, deft and sometimes dark comedy.

She’s a Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year finalist and is also the brains behind multi award-winning comedy sketch quartet Gein’s Family Giftshop.

Expect her to say: “People always say to me: ‘How have you managed to buy a house at your age?’ I just explain to them: ‘I’ve sort of done it the old fashioned way – I’ve worked really really hard and saved up all my free time and invested it into one elderly relative. That has paid off now.’”

What’s her show all about: She’ll be investigating genetics, gender, race and her likelihood of committing an accidental hate crime.

See her on: 24 July.

Lucy Porter brings Consequences to Komedia on 25 July. For more and to book visit www.komedia.co.uk

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HELP YOUR CHILD GET THE FUTURE THEY DESERVE Mum Christine explains how the ALC-UK programme helped her young son Jason calm down...

“I

f we got through a school day without Jason being disruptive that was a plus point basically. Then it was flagged up that he had ADHD, so he was put on medication.

But when I used to mention homework he would literally jump over the sofas.

When they say ‘climbing the walls’ – he was virtually doing that. He’d do one sentence and say

he needed a reward or something. It was very, very difficult,” recounts Jason’s mother Christine.

“It affected the social side of things, because he doesn’t know when to back down. On sports days he’d always run to be front of the queue.

He couldn’t stand still in the queue at passport control, couldn’t understand that you’ve got to wait your turn. So you are on edge because you are thinking – how’s he going to behave?”

“Being on medication meant that he didn’t sleep very well and he never used to get hungry until about 10.30pm-11pm, and then when we were trying to get him to bed he’d want a cooked meal,” she says exasperatedly.

“However on the second day of starting the ALC program we noticed that Jason was calmer and he wasn’t as argumentative when we asked him to go to bed. In fact he took himself up to bed and went to sleep, because he was tired – that’s never happened before. So his new ability to sleep will be a huge thing for us,” says Christine.

“His appetite since we’ve started the program is unbelievable, it’s like he is making up for lost time.

We’ve never seen him eat so well.

“I used to think – how long is this going to go on for, until he’s 18?

“But now he’s off the medication, and I really want to keep him off it,” she explains.

“So to think that things could be more normal has just got to be good for everyone!”

We help address challenges such as spelling, handwriting, concentration, reading, memory, anxiety, confidence, headaches, understanding and vision Book your summer holiday program now at www.alc-uk.com 01935 403260

BOOKS

ARTS

Claude Going for Gold! (Hodder, £8.99). Here Claude and his sidekick Sir Bobblysock, always on the lookout for a new adventure, crash headlong into a group of athletes competing for a splendid cup and they join in the sporting fun. But it turns out Claude’s talents definitely do not lie with track and field and his disastrous attempts to compete all end in failure…until an ungainly stumble brings him face-to-face with some very baddy-looking baddies who have their eye on the shining trophy.

The second new Claude book is Claude All at Sea (Hodder, £11.99), which takes the character (and his favourite sock) from his familiar young-reader format into a larger picture book for the first time (with less text too) so as to introduce him to a preschool audience.

JUST FOR KIDS A cast of hilarious and adventurous heroes are sure to keep the little ones entertained this summer

By N IC BO T T OM L E Y

I

t seems everyone’s writing books for children these days. Last week, a sales representative handed me an advance copy of a new book named Marge in Charge (Piccadilly Press, £5.99) penned by Isla Fisher. Now, for me, Isla Fisher will always be either Shannon from Home and Away, or the borderline nymphomaniac Gloria in the superb (though many with more refined tastes than I would say “terrible”) movie Wedding Crashers.

But now her other role, as mother to three young children, has inspired her to pen this first in a planned series of books about a deeply irresponsible babysitter – the kind most kids would welcome with open arms.

I asked my eldest daughter what she made of Marge in Charge, and it’s clearly the humour that’s the winning element of the formula. Marge is a child’s dream babysitter in both appearance (multicoloured hair) and behaviour (she breaks all the normal adult rules). Nice low-sugar tea? Forget it,

chocolate pancakes are the order of the day.

I’m sometimes sceptical about famous folk turning to fiction because it feels that potential publishers can be much less challenging when handing out their contracts to celebrities whose name alone might shift a few copies. But in Fisher’s case it makes sense. There’s no doubt from her acting (not to mention the fact that she shares the family home with Sacha BaronCohen) that Fisher has an incredible knack for comedy, and she’s managed to transfer this to the page in a way that will make six to nine year old readers chuckle relentlessly.

Alex T Smith is one of the UK’s superstar authors of the 5+ age bracket at the moment.

His most famous creation, the beretsporting Claude the dog, is to become the star of a Disney Junior TV show in the near future. In the meantime, there are two more bookish Claude offerings to enjoy. First up – neatly in time for the Rio Olympics - is the latest full length young-reader Claude book,

AN IDENTITY CRISIS TALE WITH A DIFFERENCE, TOLD WITH BOLD ILLUSTRATIONS For that same age group, though, the new favourite picture book in our house is Wolfie the Bunny by Ame Dyckman (Andersen, £6.99), an identity crisis tale with a difference, told with bold yellow, grey and pink illustrations. When her rabbit parents adopt a new baby, Dot thinks they’ve taken leave of their senses, on account of the fact that the baby in question is, quite clearly, a wolf! Whenever her parents point out the baby wolf’s cute features or habits, her constant refrain in reply is “He’s going to eat us all up!” and at one point he’s even forced to defend himself with a carrot sword.

But the thing is, when Dot’s not there (and she’s pretty quick to find an excuse to get out of the house) Wolfie gets the blues, and as the hilarious story plays out – reaching a crescendo in a dramatic carrot-shopping excursion for the uneasy siblings – it becomes apparent that Dot’s paranoia about Wolfie’s intentions might be misplaced.

Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; 01225 331155; www.mrbsemporium.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 61

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

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

The Locksbrook Inn With an emphasis on social, sharing dishes and healthy food, The Locksbrook Inn does canal-side al fresco dining perfectly…

M

By L I SA E VA NS

y friends are a weird old bunch. There’s a vegetarian, a pescatarian, a gluten-intolerant vegan, and the rest are full-on carnivores. So do you think it’s easy to settle on a restaurant that has at least one thing on the menu to please everyone? No, of course it’s not. If we go to a ‘specialist’ veggie place to please the few, then the many are pouting about the lack of dead cow. And if we flip the situation, the meat-loathers are normally limited to two – probably cheese-based – choices. It’s so difficult, in fact, that we’ve resigned ourselves to takeaways on the sofa.

When I hotfooted it to the newly-opened Locksbrook Inn this week, I saved myself a monotonous argument with the girls and didn’t extend the invitation. But I bet you can guess what I’m about to say next: I definitely should have brought them all along because their sensitive ways would have all been catered for.

IT’S ALIVE WITH

The Locksbrook’s menu is a tome compared to what I’m used to. There are a whopping 13 veggie options, a similar amount of meaty feasts, eight seafood dishes and a dozen gluten-free ones.

There are mezzes, sharing platters (there’s a huge emphasis on the social side of eating here), salads, handtossed pizettes, homemade burgers and big plates, and the entire offering is riddled with buzzword ingredients that are rife in our health-conscious world right now – from curly kale and harissa to kimchi to quinoa – which add to the restaurant’s cooler-than-cool vibe.

My only fear is, with all of these choices on the list, how could they all possibly be cooked with the love and attention they deserve? I needn’t have let the thought cross my mind. It all arrived perfectly executed. No surprise really because The Bath Pub Company, who took over earlier this year and also own The Chequers, the Marlborough Tavern and the Hare & Hounds, have a reputation in the city for bringing us some of the finest food in Bath. And after months of refurbishment, The Locksbrook is keeping the standards as high as they’ve ever been.

It’s been given a whole load of TLC and has been styled in a contemporary way which is sympathetic to its heritage

FLAVOURS OF SWEET MANGO AND ZINGY GREEN TOMATO CHUTNEY

– think exposed brick interior walls, industrial-style lighting designs and a cosy snug area.

The ‘vision’ for The Locksbrook was to reflect and respect its fantastic waterside location in its individual character.

It was originally built back in 1728 and was, apparently, a popular chilled out watering hole for boat folk in the 18th century. It certainly still has that relaxed atmosphere inside and, if it’s sunny, then you’ll definitely want to get out into the huge garden where an extra 150 seats await.

Once we’ve taken in the lovely view of the canal and the old stone bridge that spans it, we get stuck into our medley of starters: strips of warm flatbread with little dipping pots of roasted garlic aioli, olive oil and tapenade; Vietnamese spring rolls stuffed with colourful vegetables and rice noodles with a miso dip and cashew sauce; and torched goats’ cheese accompanied by beetroot, candied, paprikadusted hazelnuts and a drizzle of raspberry vinaigrette.

Appetites sufficiently whetted, we move on to two rather impressive-looking dishes. My choice is the Buddha Bowl salad – in a dish twice the size of my head – crammed with the goodness of avocado, beetroot hummus, shredded cabbage, leafy greens, herby quinoa and – the best bits – hot sweet potato which has been roasted and blackened until it has caramel crunch (a surprising treat hidden among the cold ingredients) and crispy, lightly battered tofu.

My dining partner goes down the pub-classic route with a chicken burger, but it isn’t topped with your typical slice of plastic cheese and wilting leaf, it’s alive with flavours of sweet mango and zingy green tomato chutney, perfectly complementing its tongue-tingling BBQ jerk marinade.

Head chef Charles Mooyaart – with all his eclectic experience from working in London and his native Amsterdam – aims to change common perceptions of pub grub. And we think he does that very well. The pizzas, for example, are topped with unexpected ingredients like lovage, bloody Mary and chicken tom yum; the street- foodstyle chilli is accompanied by bulgar, and the spaghetti isn’t pasta at all, it’s spiralized courgette.

For dessert, Eton mess is our poison. The crunchy puffs of meringue are muddled with plump summer berries and basil-flecked strawberry sauce and placed chaotically (hence the name) atop a dollop of thick cream, an indulgence that tastes positively carnal.

I’ve already pulled the ‘something for everyone’ cliché out of the bag, but now it’s time for one last chestnut: there was so much to choose from, “we’ll definitely be back” to try the hundreds (ok, that might be a slight exaggeration) of dishes we didn’t have room for this time around. And I’m bringing all of my pernickety friends along for the ride.

DINING DETAILS The Locksbrook Inn, 103 Locksbrook Rd, Bath, BA1 3EN; 01225 427119; www.thelocksbrookinn.com Prices Starters £5 - £15; mains £7 - £22; puds £6 - £8.50 Disabled access Not fantastic, but surmountable Vegetarian choice Out of this world Wine list A fantastic selection alongside aperitifs, post-dinner tipples, cocktails and bottled beers/ciders Service Top notch – they didn’t even flinch at our constant question-asking

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 63

Summer has arrived at the Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel Whether it’s for a formal gathering of friends or a celebratory occasion we have an offering to suit all.

Celebrate the summer with Pimms Afternoon Tea or Strawberries and Cream

Family BBQ’s on the Terrace or a Traditional Sunday Lunch in the 2 Rosette Vellore Restaurant.

Jane Austin time is almost upon us and we will be offering a special themed Afternoon Tea in September We can cater for all dietary requirements please advise us on booking.

To book for for further information please contact the Events Team on 01225 476892 or email events.bathspa@macdonald-hotels.co.uk

NOW OPEN i� �� Corridor, Bat�

New o� th� bloc�!

FOR BOOKINGS PHONE

01225 443686

SPECIALITY PIZZERIA NOW OPEN IN BATH The only Italian pizzeria that lets you choose your dough, from the traditional kind to hemp, gluten free, kumut and more.

FOOD

AL FRESCO

SUNNY SPOTS

When it comes to al fresco dining, Bath is a city blessed with glorious green spaces, charming courtyards and sun-drenched pavement cafés where we love to indulge in sensational summer flavours and escape the stresses of the world for a couple of hours. Here we take you on a tour of some of our favourite open-air eateries…

By L I SA E VA NS The Marlborough Tavern

Why we love it: It has a courtyard garden area surrounded by vibrant flowers and plantings and it’s got a lovely pub atmosphere – especially on a bright day, making it a proper sun-trap.

We’re ordering: Mackerel with braised beetroot, pickled fennel and orange purée, and we’re teaming it with their wine of the month – the Domaine D’Astros, a delicate Provencal rosé, dry and citrusy with strawberries on the finish; perfect summer drinking.

Local produce: Electric Bear Brewing Co., and Honey’s Midford Cider.

Something extra special: “You get a very nice view of the hot air balloons floating overhead,” says general manager Jose Ginestar.

“They take off from Royal Victoria Park just behind the pub.”

35 Marlborough Buildings, Bath; www.marlborough-tavern.com

Hare & Hounds

Why we love it: Two words – the view! It looks

Lansdown Road, Bath; www.hareandhoundsbath.com

The Oven

Why we love it: The paved outdoor dinning area captures that sought-after buzzy vibe – the perfect hotspot for people-watching.

We’re eating: Neapolitan-style pizzas; our choice is the chicken, avocado and red onion topping, plus a fabulously healthy salad of smoked mackerel, avocado, fennel, radish, orange and toasted almonds to complete the dish.

Something extra special: The Oven has windows that fold back completely, so, whether you’re outside or in, you still feel part of the vibrant atmosphere.

Did you know: Their pizzas are baked in a wood-fired oven at temperatures of 400-500 degrees, and are ready to eat in 90 seconds.

ON A CLEAR DAY YOU CAN SEE FOR MILES ACROSS THE BEAUTIFUL WILTSHIRE

COUNTRYSIDE

out for miles over the valley to the east of Bath, out towards Swainswick and Solsbury Hill, and, bonus, the al fresco area seats 150 across two terraces, so you won’t have to fight to see the vistas. “Even in the deepest of winter months the view is mesmerising,” says general manager Jennifer Blake. “On a clear day you can see for miles across the beautiful Wiltshire countryside. A perfect place to enjoy a prosecco lunch with friends.”

Did you know?: They’ve been featured twice on Location, Location, Location as a selling point for people thinking of moving to the area.

We’re ordering: Roasted fillet of cod served with bacon, crab and spring onion croquette, drizzled with a kale and lemon butter sauce.

And to drink? A crisp, ice-cold glass of Yealand’s Estate Sauvignon Blanc. A winning combination.

Local produce: Bath Bakery, Bath Gin, Marshfield Ice Cream.

New for summer: They’ve just added a woodland playground for children, and a boules area.

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

Special touches: They’ve got snuggly blankets and hot water bottles to help extend those summer evenings. Why should the evening with a view end just because the sun is going down?

3-4 Seven Dials, Saw Close, Bath; www.theovenpizzeria.co.uk

The Holcombe Inn

Why we love it: There are incredibly beautiful panoramic views of Mendip countryside and of Downside Abbey from the garden dining areas. And the summer evening sunsets look truly spectacular from there.

We’re ordering: Somerset spring lamb with dauphinoise potato, asparagus and a rosemary infused jus.

New for summer: Within their new grown-ups only Tranquility Gardens you’ll find their kitchen and fruit gardens, orchard, greenhouse, a beautiful dovecote, butterfly-attracting wild flower beds, and, the best part, their family of kooky bantam chickens.

Did you know: They have a rustic play area complete with a basket swing, seesaw, sandpit and wooden rocking horse.

Stratton Road, Holcombe, Radstock; www.holcombeinn.co.uk w

The view at the Hare & Hounds is difficult to beat

As The Marlborough Tavern’s courtyard is sheltered from the wind, it makes for an ideal place to spend a summer evening

FOOD

AL FRESCO

IT’S OUR GO-TO PLACE FOR A PRESHOW TIPPLE

An enticing people-watching scene outside Vino Vino

Green Park Brasserie Restaurant and Bar

Why we love it: It has an eclectic British-meets-European vibe and is a great place to take in the bustling Green Park Station markets at the weekends.

Did you know: The al fresco area is under cover.

Something extra special: It has been visited by many a famous face including Nick Clegg, William Hague, Michael Portillo, Robert Plant and Ronnie Wood.

We’re ordering: Cajun-spiced chicken breast, topped with halloumi and lemon and tarragon yoghurt served in a bun with spicy fries.

Local produce: Marshfield Ice Cream, Castlemead chicken, veg from the adjacent farmers’ market, and meat from Tunley, Newton and Worthy Farms.

New for summer: Their brand-new summer menu has just come out, and we can’t wait to get stuck into the Mediterranean mezzes and slow-cooked ribs.

Green Park Station, Bath; www.greenparkbrasserie.com

Vino Vino Wine and Cocktail Bar

Why we love it: It’s in the lively heart of Bath and is adjacent to the Theatre Royal, so it’s our go-to place for a pre-show tipple. It’s always packed, even when it starts to get chilly or even raining, because it has parasols and heaters, making it a perfect place to watch the world go by, whatever the weather.

We’re ordering: We love the Mediterranean-inspired small plates, especially the salt and pepper squid, and chicken liver and white port parfait. We’re washing it all down with a delightful Lemon Bon Bon cocktail made with Stolichnaya Citrus, homemade limoncello, pineapple juice and icing sugar - sharp, sweet and zingy.

New for summer: They’ve revamped their food menus and added some more exciting summer dishes such as a salad of fresh peach, goats’ cheese, peppery rocket and toasted pecans with a white balsamic herb dressing.

5-6 Seven Dials, Saw Close Bath; www.vinovinowinebar.co.uk 68 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The always-popular sheltered outdoor spot at Green Park Brasserie

Country pub

~ Dining

~ Smokehouse

THE LONGS ARMS South Wraxall

Charming country pub * Smoked foods lovingly produced in our very own Smokehouse * Warm & friendly atmosphere * Lovely walled garden * Function room available BEST CHEF AND BEST FOOD PUB FINALISTS IN THE FOOD READER AWARDS 2016 BEST CHEF

AWARDED A

MICHELIN BIB GOURMAND

FINALIST IN THE

TRENCHERMAN’S GUIDE AWARDS 2015

LISTED IN THE

UK TOP 50 GASTRO PUBS 2014 & 2015

South Wraxall | Bradford on Avon | Wiltshire | BA15 2SB TheLongsArms @thelongsarms Tel: 01225 864450 | www.thelongsarms.com

newly refurbished...

Widbrook Grange Restaurant Modern farmhouse cooking from our award winning chef in an elegant grade 2 listed farmhouse, now completely re designed Also open to non residents for dinner

To see what all the fuss is about and to book a table call 01225 864750 or email stay@widbrookgrange.co.uk www.widbrookgrange.co.uk

Widbrook Grange Hotel Bradford on Avon BA15 1UH widbrookgrangehotel @widbrookgrange

eat, drink, chill, enjoy.

Come and relax in our new tranquility gardens... ...the latest addition to our award winning Inn, the new gardens enjoy panoramic views over the Mendip Countryside and of Downside abbey, seating for eating and drinking amongst scented ornamental flower beds and kitchen gardens. Snuggle beds for a real chill out... cocktails at hand!

A garden for grown ups, childrens play area in our main pub garden.

You can also stay in one of our luxury AA 5* guest suites, eat at our award winning rosetted restaurant featured in Michelin good food pub guide and drink from our fully-stocked bar.

Open all day, every day. Food served all day: 12-9pm Fri, Sat, Sun | Mon-Fri 12-2.30pm and 6-9pm.

The Holcombe Inn Stratton Road, Holcombe, Bath BA3 5EB T 01761 232478 E bookings@holcombeinn.co.uk www.holcombeinn.co.uk

Ponte Vecchio

Cocktail Bar • Events • Parties Open 7 days a week

The best Italian restaurant at the best location...

Ristorante & Bar

Ponte Vecchio Restaurant is set in one of Bath’s most scenic eating locations – next to the world famous Pulteney Bridge and overlooking the River Avon.

01225 424800 • info@pontevecchiobath.com find us on

www.pontevecchiobath.com

Spring Gardens, Under Pulteney Bridge BA2 6PW

FOOD & DRINK

IT REMINDS ME OF THAT SMELL YOU GET JUST AFTER IT’S RAINED ON CONCRETE

BEN FRANKS Wine exper t

AL FRESCO WINING As it’s summertime, Ben Franks has been sniffing out the best wines of the season to pop into our picnic baskets

W

hen the sun comes out it’s difficult to resist the allure of a chilled bottle of quality rosé or the pop of a fine champagne. So if you’ve got a picnic planned this month, why not try one of these refreshing tipples as you kick back, relax and enjoy the view of Bath in the lovely weather?

If you’re lucky enough to grab a bottle before they all go, the wonderful Domaine Parigot Volnay Les Brouillards 2009, from The Tasting Room (£29), is right in its drinking prime. It’s a burgundy with a real fresh raspberry character and an elegant finish. A pinot noir like this is ideal if you love your cheese and would match with a wide range of styles from semi-mature cheddar to our local Bath Blue.

A very popular choice for your picnic is a classic Provence rosé. The rosé market in the UK has come on leaps and bounds from the days when sweet white Zinfandel filled the shelves, and you can now get a range of superb rosés in your local supermarket.

While the Petit Rimauresq Cotes Provence Rosé (£11.99, Waitrose Cellar) is light and aromatic, with delicate summer fruits and perfect alongside green leaf salad, my rosé star is the amazing Chateau d’Esclans Whispering Angel Rosé (£16.99, Waitrose).

It is sensational; it’s dry, crisp and enjoyable with food from French stick to olives, goats’ cheese and English strawberries. It’s also delicious with crab.

Of course I can’t ignore the amazing quality of English rosé wine. Dunleavy’s Vineyard near Bristol has just released the 2015 vintage of their pinot noir rosé and it is well worth seeking a bottle out. But if you fancy something within easier reach, go for the own-label M&S English Rosé (£12) – it’s rather good.

Anyone thinking of popping some bubbly 74 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

with their al fresco dining? You have to check out the Champagne Salmon 100% Pinot Meunier, exclusively from local entrepreneurs, The Champagne Guys.

A bright, wild berry sparkling rosé with notes of orange marmalade and pink grapefruit, finishing with a rich biscuit flavour that makes the wine all the more quaffable. Really good stuff and makes a pleasing change from prosecco.

However, for many, the summer sunshine calls for a nicely chilled bottle of white wine. You can’t go wrong with a bottle of Trimbach Pinot Blanc (£9.99, Great Western Wine). It’s crisp with an inviting mineral aroma. It reminds me of that smell you get just after it’s rained on concrete. Fresh and thirst-quenching, it’s perfect with quiche.

The Domaine Saumaize-Michelin Pouilly Fuissé 2014 (£19.95, Great Western Wine), from a vineyard just south of the Macon in Burgundy, is a sublime choice if you love salted nuts, like cashew nuts or peanuts, and it would match well with a creamy pasta

dish. The wine is brimming with tropical fruit with a nutty and creamy oak finish.

While sauvignon blanc lovers know that New Zealand Marlborough is a reliable bet for yummy sauvignon, you might like to try something different in the Mihaly Figula Olasrizling from Balaton, Hungary (£9.90, Danube Wines). The Olasrizling, no relation of riesling, is a crisp juicy white wine with limes and a light note of green herbs. It’s wonderfully refreshing.

There are so many wines out there for you to try. Let’s just hope the weather stays pleasant enough to enjoy them in style!

Local entrepreneurs The Champagne Guys

More wine lover news and events at www. benfrankswine.com or follow @BenFranksWine on Twitter

Quality food freshly prepared for you

The perfect setting for a relaxing lunch or evening meal, overlooking the rolling fields of West Wiltshire.

Fantastic Food • Fine Wines • Local ales • Cocktails • Gourmet ‘Gin & Tonic’ Menu Our 2 detached self-catering cottages are the perfect place when friends or family come to visit.

Our New Summer Menu is Now Available

Serving food 7 days a week - Lunch 12-2.30pm | Dinner 6-9.30pm 99 The Strand, Semington, Trowbridge BA14 6LL t 01380 870263 | e restaurant@lambonthestrand.co.uk www.lambonthestrand.co.uk ft

LANSDOWN ROAD, BATH TEL: 01225 425403

2 FOR 1 COCKTAILS 8-10PM Choose from our large range of premium cocktails EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT House Cocktails 2 for £8 EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT GUEST DJ'S & CABERET

“A great venue for an after dinner party! ” Great friendly atmosphere!

We open at 8pm and stay open until 3am Thursday – Saturday!

See our facebook page for events.

PHOTO BY TOM SOUTHCOTT

Louis Lewis-Smith with his bar manager Sam Kershaw

The Dark Horse in Bath has been named as one of the four best places to drink in the world, and finds out later this month if it is actually the very best.

The Kingsmead Square bar, which makes bespoke cocktails to suit requests, has been selected for the final of best new international cocktail bar in the Spirited Awards, along with three other venues from

DOWN AT THE FARM

W H AT ’ S M A K I N G T H E G O U R M E T N E W S I N B AT H

IN GOOD SPIRITS London, Singapore and South Korea.

Owner Louis Lewis-Smith, who opened the bar in December last year, says, “We strive to make The Dark Horse world class for its welcome, its atmosphere and quality of drinks.” The winner will be announced on 23 July at the Tales of the Cocktail Festival in New Orleans, USA.

Cooking it with the kids

COOKING FORWARD

for us to push on from here!”

Tom is also organising the Neston Farm food festival on 17 July and says, “We will be setting up camp in our garden and providing the very best food, drink, music and activities the South West has to offer.”

Down at Jamie’s Farm, they believe many positive things in life start with good food, and have released a cookbook inspired by their work with disadvantaged children. The recipes, which includes cinnamon buns and Ottavia’s vegetable lasagna, have all been composed and written by the kitchen team who cook and hold classes on the working livestock farm in Box, Wiltshire.

“Our cooking sessions start with a trip to the garden where we look to see what is growing and pick armfuls of produce before taking it back to the barn where we decide what to make,” explains food and horticulture manager Rob Lewis. “This helps to give children a better understanding of where their food comes from, links their diet, the seasons, and also makes for fresher, tastier meals.”

The book, which will be available for sale later in the year and will be given to the farm’s visiting children, has also been endorsed by celebrity chef Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, who described it as “a window onto a community where good food is transforming young lives.”

For more: www.nestonfarmshop.co.uk

For more: www.jamiesfarm.org.uk

For more: www.darkhorsebar.co.uk

Tom Bowles’ success is on the moo-ve

The newly opened Neston Farm Shop & Kitchen is celebrating winning their very first Taste of the West Gold Award.

The prestigious event, which rewards the provenance and quality of food producers in the region, and has HRH Prince Charles as its patron, was held last month.

Tom Bowles, who originally set up Hartley Farm Shop and whose family have been farming for five generations, took over the Atworth-based shop and kitchen last year. “I’m incredibly proud as this award is a great accolade for our team as it recognises our achievements so far and commitment, and has provided great fuel PHOTO BY BEATA COSGROVE

FOOD & DRINK

Mary Berry looks forward to her high tea with staff and winners

MARY QUEEN OF SCONES Mary Berry played host at The Bath Priory and there wasn’t a soggy bottom in sight. The extra-special afternoon tea was a prize for two lucky Royal United Hospital raffle winners who were served a delightful spread prepared by Sam Moody and his team, which included a selection of handmade finger sandwiches, delicious homemade cakes and warm scones.

“Serving Mary Berry was one of the highlights of my career,” says pastry chef Jonathan Blair. “I was proudest of all when she introduced me as ‘the real star baker’.”

As part of her visit to Bath, the queen of TV bakes and cakes had earlier officially opened the new positron scanner at the RUH. For more: www.thebathpriory.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 77

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CREAM of the CROP AS JULY IS NATIONAL ICE-CREAM MONTH, WE’VE TAKEN INSPIRATION FROM THIS MUCH-LOVED DESSERT AND SCOURED BATH’S SHOPS TO FIND SOME FROSTY-HUED, CREAMY-COLOURED LOVELIES FOR YOU TO SCOOP UP WHILE THEY’RE HOT (OR COLD?) 5

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1. PACK A SNACK

2. PURSE STRINGS

3. ALL WHITE

4. LIGHT AND BRIGHT

5. SUNNIES DELIGHT

Marshfield Bakery Butter Shortbread tray, £4.80 This award-winning shortbread would make for a perfect accompaniment to a spot of afternoon tea in the sun From Marshfield Bakery, available at Prior Park Garden Centre, Prior Park Road, Bath; www.marshfieldbakery.co.uk

Makki Electric clutch, £52 Classic and compact, this carry-around clutch (with shoulder strap included) will work for all your iPhone, lippy and loose change needs From Magpie & Bear, 7 Green Street, Bath; www.magpieandbear.com

Annie Sloan chalk paint, in Pure, £18.95 Perfect for modern interiors, this cool, clean white makes a crisp contrast with strong colours From The Marmalade House at The Loft, 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; www. themarmaladehouse.co.uk

Guaxs Patara table lamp, £575 Asymmetric facets evoke the abstract modernism of the Cubist movement in this beautifully crafted mouth-blown glass lamp From Woodhouse & Law, 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hil, Bath; www. woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

1069 Cloud White sunglasses, £340 These octagon-shaped, oversized beauties offer a bold, 70s design and also come in a bright mango shade From Cutler and Gross, 9 Bridge Street, Bath; www.cutlerandgross.com

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ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING

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6. CUSTOM CHIC

7. KNOT BAD

8. MIX IT UP

9. SWEET TREAT

10. DESIGNER HEAVEN

TV dresser, from £4,500 Add some serious Scandi style to your home with a glorious, minimalist bespoke TV dresser cabinet From Coppice Guild, 28 Coppice Hill, Bradford-on-Avon; www.coppiceguild.co.uk

PK Berry belted dress, £169 Tying around the middle, this belted frock shows off the silhouette, and its flattering length makes it perfect for day-to-evening style From Sisi & May, 9a Bartlett Street, Bath; www.sisiandmay.com

Magimix Le Glacier icecream machine, £49.95 Homemade ice-cream and sorbet made easy, this machine makes summer parties a doddle From Kitchens Cookshop, 4&5 Quiet Street, Bath; www.kitchenscookshop. co.uk

Sugar canister, £9.99 Add a charming, retro touch to your kitchen countertop with this cream sugar canister… and there are matching tea, coffee and biscuit tins to boot From Vinegar Hill, 16 Milsom Street, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk

Mulberry Alexa handbag, £550 This satchel, complete with the signature Mulberry postman’s lock, is understatedly cool… we want it now!

From Grace & Ted, 10 Kingsmead Square, Bath; www.graceandted.co.uk

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SHOPPING

FA S H I O N Zola Swing Dress, £103.95, Anthropologie; www.anthropologie.com

CARNIVAL CHIC The Bath Carnival is set to return to the city on 16 July, and that only means one thing: it’s party time! Whether you’re joining in the festival spirit or not, you can still embrace the mood with a fun and fanciful outfit…

C

arnival fashion is all about glitter, feathers and bursts of vibrant colour; but unless you’re in the carnival itself or you have oodles of confidence, you probably won’t want to wear a three-foot cerise feather headpiece or walk around in just a Swarovski crystal bralet, so, inspired by samba street style, we’ve picked out an ever so slightly toned-down selection of wardrobe staples and accessories that evoke the Brazilian spirit.

The good news for the fashionforward fans amongst you is that this summer’s trends have stepped away from minimalism, and high-impact, daring styles are ruling the runways. At Gucci we saw embellishments, lamé and layers; Etro presented us with star-spangled silks; and bold, graphic stripes were the order of the day at Christian Dior.

More is definitely more right now, so clash your colours, be brave with prints and sparkle on. Bath Carnival is, after all, inspired by Rio Carnival where the whole community come together to perform music and dance together, so get into the samba party spirit with some of our flamboyant suggestions…

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1. Orange jacket, £75, L.K.Bennett at Kilver Court Designer Village; www.kilvercourt.com 2. Wolf slip-ons, £55, Ted & Muffy; www.tedandmuffy.com 3. Bibi Herron Zodiac scarf, £190, from Ezza; www.bibiherron.com 4. Weekend Maxmara Licenza Skirt, £115, from Grace & Mabel; www.graceandmabel.co.uk 5. Konplott La Maitresse Vine Ear Cuff Earrings, £156, from Alexandra May; www.alexandramay.com 6. Sue Gregor Ghibli Cuff, £45, from Quadri; www.suegregor.myshopify.com 7. Liberty Print Cosmetic Bag, £25 Rossiters; www.rossitersofbath.com 8. Alouette sandal, £210, from Chanii B; www.chaniibshoes.com 9. Becksondergaard Wishful Graphic Tote Bag, £65, from Bloomsbury; www.bloomsburystore.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 81

SMILE WITH CONFIDENCE. Single Tooth Dental Implants from ÂŁ1500

No charge inital consultation appointments available

Our practice is dedicated to implant dentistry Call today for the most competitive prices in the area

01225 447600 www.bathsmile.co.uk Circus House | Bennett Street | Bath | BA1 2EX Email: info@circusdental.co.uk

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E H E A LT H A N D F I T N E S S

MIND YOUR BACK! TEAM BREAKTHROUGH have a team of dedicated therapists and coaches who are experts in diagnosing, advising, helping manage and eradicating back pain and problems of all kinds

B

ox based Team Breakthrough have cemented their reputation as pioneers of health and fitness, physical therapy and personal training in the region. They have a world class facility, a vastly experienced team, and combine aspects of different therapies in a way that gives their customers a complete result. This is truly a unique offering.

One of the most frequent breakthroughs that they help clients with is to manage and eliminate back pain. Since Dave Wilby founded the company 13 years ago they have strived to learn from the very best therapists and coaches the world has to offer and bring that back for the benefit of the people of Bath with thousands of happy customers.

Neuromuscular therapist Sabrina Page is the latest addition to this high flying team. Having been trained by internationally acclaimed physical therapists in America alongside the guidance of Team Breakthrough's own Dave Wilby. She is in a fantastic position to explain and eradicate your back pain.

“For many of you back pain is not something you have to live with. The body is a complex thing and we believe you have to look at the big picture before zooming in on the details of the problem. This is why we would perform a full biomechanical analysis prior to addressing the issue,” explains Sabrina. “Perhaps your pelvis is out of alignment due to muscular, fascial or structural imbalances. Maybe you have segmental instability in the spine. Often we find clients have muscles such as the glutes, hamstrings and lower abdominals that are

Above demonstrates a common set of imbalances that is regularly seen at breakthrough HQ

Sabrina carrying out an assessment

switched off or inactive. This is making other muscles work harder every time you move.”

“The problem may be driven by something elsewhere in the body. Is your neck out of alignment which is holding you back from a full result? We would always check your atlas as that could be a neurological drive behind your problem. Do you have leg length discrepancies that could be making everything else operate differently?”

Whatever your back pain is caused by, there is a very high chance Sabrina will identify it.

“We see patterns down here at the facility and it seems to be a modern day problem where people spend too much time seated or inactive.

This often results in tightness through the hip flexor (psoas) muscles along with the external rotator muscles of the hip (piriformis). With these in a shortened position it leaves the lower back in a very vulnerable position. We often see Sacroilliac locking, fascet joint locking or even disc problems as a result. We can help with all of these.”

So many different possibilities I hear you say!

Well, the first step is to call Team Breakthrough and book an assessment with Sabrina. She can explain the rest from there and decide wether you need hands on physical therapy

in the treatment room or specific corrective strengthening exercises on the gym floor. With this team behind you, you don’t have to settle for being in pain. No more muscle spasm, no more sciatic pain, no more constant aching in the lower back. Team Breakthrough work with people of all ages and backgrounds.

Give them a call on 01225 743801 and tell them what Breakthrough they can help you with. Alternatively contact enquiries@ teambreakthrough.co.uk or visit the website at www.teambreakthrough.co.uk.

Team Breakthrough Unit 2,The Ley Business Park Box, Wiltshire SN13 8EH 01225 743 801 enquiries@teambreakthrough.co.uk www.teambreakthrough.co.uk

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

SPA SECRETS As we’re lucky enough to have some of the best spas in the country right on our doorstep, we went to meet Bath’s wellness professionals. Here they debunk the beauty myths, divulge their top secrets to staying tip-top and reveal how spa culture is changing

By L I SA E VA NS

THE HISTORY

Centuries ago, the spa was traditionally a place of healing; people would travel to bathe in the naturally warm, mineral-rich waters in Bath with the aim of curing themselves of illness, disease and ailments. And now, spa culture has come full circle. We might not be trying to heal ourselves of gout and dropsy these days, but modern-day spas are adapting treatments to help people reach the peak of wellness.

“After years of focussing on our own exteriors, we have definitely returned to a focus on inner wellness,” says Angela Bonner, director of spa operations at the Thermae Bath Spa. “Stressful lifestyles have become the norm in our society – it has never been more important to give quality time to ourselves and find the space for our minds and bodies to reflect, relax and heal.”

And Sam Teifel, the spa therapy manager at Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, agrees; she explains that, these days, spas focus on health in a different way – it’s now much more about inner beauty.

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

H E A LT H A N D BEAUTY

IT USED TO BE CONSIDERED

A FEMALE ACTIVITY, BUT NOW MORE MEN ARE NOW ENJOYING THE

BENEFITS OF SPAS

Clockwise from left: Melissa Mettler, spa consultant at The Gainsborough Bath Spa; the indoor pool at Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa; a treatment room in The Garden Spa at The Bath Priory; Rebecca Whittington, managing director at Bath’s Combe Grove

“We have the Romans to thank for spas,” she says. “But what you see today is not how they started out. Elaborately designed, the baths were great social and spiritual centres that dominated the Roman way of life. When the soldiers came back exhausted and sick from long wars, they were sent to recuperate and heal in the spa.

“Even up to just a few years ago, spas were still seen very much as health farms – regimented with crowds of white-robed guests shuffling between treatments and strict calorie-counted lunches,” she adds. “Today, spas are much more about relaxation; they’re places to go to unwind and to enjoy the thermal experiences and fabulous food – something for all the senses.”

Melissa Mettler, spa consultant at The Gainsborough Bath Spa, thinks spas have both evolved and regressed through time. She says that ancient baths had exercise grounds, massage areas, wine bars and gaming centres; they were social complexes where body, mind and spirit were attended to. And she believes that spas of today are a reawakening of that period.

“The Romans were truly the founders of the ‘holistic’ approach in their methods of addressing and caring for the human gem in all its facets,” she says. “We are moving away from the notion of pampering escapes with friends and gaining a deeper understanding that there is value in personal experience and a necessity in paying attention to and respecting one’s wellbeing.”

According to Zahrah Douglas, senior therapist at Green Street House, over the last 20 years, spa awareness has grown dramatically.

“It’s hard to believe that, until recently, there were salons that still had a curtain around the client and not even a room with a door to shut,” she says. “It was more like a hospital visit and far from what the Romans would have endured.”

And one of the biggest changes Bath’s

professionals have seen is the growing number of male guests taking treatments.

“It used to be considered mainly as a female activity but now more men are now enjoying the benefits of spas,” says Charlotte Edwards, senior therapist at The Spa & Bath House at The Royal Crescent Hotel. “The age range has also widened; spas have become more affordable and can now be enjoyed by more people and not only the wealthier demographic.”

MYTHS AND MISCONCEPTIONS

We’re constantly being bombarded with lists of beauty dos and dont’s, but sorting the tall tales from the top tips isn’t always easy. Deep tissue massages always hurt, right? And the more we exfoliate, the softer our skin will be?

Nope, wrong on both counts, apparently.

“A massage need not hurt to do you good,” says Sam at Lucknam Park Hotel. “A skilled therapist w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 85

H E A LT H A N D BEAUTY can ‘melt’ those muscles without pain. Another misconception is that ‘more’ is better when it comes to beauty products. Actually, too much exfoliation will cause skin to become dry and oversensitive and too much eye cream will ‘bag’ the under eye area down; only use a minimal amount and use your ring finger to apply on the orbital bone.”

Rebecca Whittington, managing director at Combe Grove, thinks people are often misled by packaging to believe that products are more natural than they actually are, and Charlotte at The Royal Crescent Hotel says that people’s skincare regimes baffle her.

“From using soap and water to wash their face or, even worse, face wipes, to not using sun protection, I still find it shocking that people aren’t taking care of their skin,” says Charlotte.

“Having personalised facials can really educate you about your skin.”

The conflicting and fickle beauty advice we are bombarded with may be one of the reasons we are getting confused. Melissa at The Gainsborough thinks we’re all falling into popular social and cultural ideas of health and beauty, which are ever-changing.

“One day red meat is bad, the next, it’s good,” she says. “Fats were bad, now they are essential.

I’m sure there will be a study next year showing half the population has developed a rare tropical nut sensitivity from all the coconut oil we’ve been slathering on ourselves. Follow your instincts, know yourself and explore what makes you feel and look good. Pay attention to cutting-edge studies and trends but don’t be a slave to them.”

WE’LL HAVE WHAT SHE’S HAVING

When it comes to the best treatments out there, we asked Bath’s spa professionals for their recommendations…

Top to bottom: Sam Teifel, the spa therapy manager at Lucknam Park Hotel; Linda Fudge, therapist at The Spa at Bowood

Rachel Murphy, spa manager at Woolley Grange: “My favourite treatment is an Elemis’ tri enzyme facial for a skin pick-me-up. It always leaves it smooth and bright.”

Jodie Still, spa manager of The Garden Spa at The Bath Priory in Weston: “I love the Heavenly Touch treatment – an Indian head massage using divine-smelling frangipani monoï oil, as part of an Elemis facial.” w

POP SPA QUIZ

I COULDN’T LIVE

WITHOUT THE GOTU KOLA FACIAL

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How many answers can you get right… see page 88 1. Which spa, just outside the city, has an onsite complimentary crèche called the Woolley Bears Den? 2. At which spa will you often spot deer in the distance while you’re taking a dip in the outdoor pool?

3. Which city centre spa is based in a 17th century, timber-framed building on a street that used to be a bowling green?

4. Where will you find the unusual Shirodhara Ritual – in which warm oil is gently poured onto a client’s head from a copper vessel?

5. Name the spa which, within a year of opening, received the prestigious Tatler Spa Award, being one of only six in the world.

6. You’ll often find Bath Rugby players bathing in the water at which local spa after a particularly gruelling match?

7. There’s a pet-friendly spa where cats and dogs can explore the spa garden. Can you name it?

H E A LT H A N D BEAUTY Sam at Lucknam Park Hotel: “For me, it would be a Carita facial – the herbal peel makes my skin glow and the eye patches are a must.

I positively glow after that facial – I always keep the eyepatches in my handbag, especially if I’m travelling or getting ready for a big event.

Zahrah at Green Street House: “I love the sensational Biotec facials. I love seeing clients noticing such great results and improvements in their skin.”

Linda Fudge, therapist at The Spa at Bowood in Wiltshire: “I couldn’t live without The Gotu Kola Age Defying Firming facial. A fabulous 90-minute treatment with an Ayurvedic massage.”

Melissa at The Gainsborough: “I had the honour of meeting a Mayan healer in Bali years ago who crafted an experience facilitated in the water. I knew I needed to highlight this session in Bath. The thermal waters in the city couldn’t have been a more fitting environment, and our Freedom treatment was born. It’s a dynamic dance in the warm waters, fully supported, whilst muscles, ligaments and joints are manipulated in weightlessness.”

Charlotte at The Royal Crescent Hotel: “Reflexology doesn’t just do your feet good, but your whole body and mind benefits from it.”

AFTER YEARS OF FOCUSSING ON OUR OWN EXTERIORS, WE HAVE RETURNED TO A FOCUS ON INNER WELLNESS Where the Thermae Bath Spa’s Cross Bath now stands, the Celts revered their goddess Sul, in whose honour the Romans named their spa town, Aquae Sulis.

SPA DIRECTORY Just a handful of the local spas that help make Bath what it is The Royal Crescent Hotel’s Vitality Pool

The Royal Crescent Hotel 16 Royal Crescent, Bath, BA1 2LS 01225 823333; www.royalcrescent.co.uk Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa Colerne, Chippenham, SN14 8AZ 01225 742777 www.lucknampark.co.uk The Gainsborough Bath Spa Beau Street, Bath, BA1 1QY 01225 358888 www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

Bath Priory Priory Hotel, Weston Lane, Bath, BA1 2XT 01225 478395 www.thebathpriory.co.uk Combe Grove Hotel and Spa Brassknocker Hill, Bath, BA2 7HS 01225 834644 www.combegrove.com

Thermae Bath Spa Hot Bath Street, Bath, BA1 1SJ; 01225 331234; www.thermaebathspa.com

Woolley Grange Hotel Woolley Green, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1TX 01225 864705 www.woolleygrangehotel.co.uk

Green St House 14 Green Street, Bath, BA1 2JZ 01225 426000 www.greenstreethouse.co.uk

The Spa at Bowood Derry Hill, Calne, SN11 9PQ 01249 822228 www.bowood.org

Answers The Spa at Woolley Grange, Bradford on Avon; 2. Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa, Chippenham; 3. Green Street House, Bath; 4. The Spa at Bowood, Wiltshire; 5. The Gainsborough Bath Spa, Bath; 6. The Thermae Bath Spa, Bath; 7. The Spa & Bath House at The Royal Crescent Hotel, Bath 88 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E V E T E R I N A RY C A R E

KEEP YOUR PETS’ BREATH FRESH BATH VETERINARY GROUP advises how to prevent dental disease in your family pets

W

e all know the importance of looking after our own teeth but then often forget about caring for our pets teeth.

Proactive dental care plays an essential part in keeping your pet healthy and will help prevent that unwanted smelly breath as your pet ages.

By introducing a dental hygiene routine and feeding a suitable diet you can help prevent dental disease. There are specific animal toothpastes – either fish or poultry flavoured.

Human toothpaste should never be used as this can lead to problems with fluoride toxicity. If introduced at an early age many pets will tolerate

Izzy's teeth have not been regularly cleaned so there is significant build up of tartar and accompanying gingivitis which can be painful and can lead to gum erosion and tooth root exposure

tooth brushing well. Finger brushes can be used at first progressing to tooth brushes once your pet is more accustomed to the routine.

Starting a dental care plan can be daunting – will your pet let you look at their teeth, let alone brush them! To help, we offer free nurse clinics at some of our surgeries where you can be shown how to introduce tooth brushing as part of your daily routine. We also stock a wide range of toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental foods.

Prevention is always better than a cure but if your pet is already showing signs of dental disease they may require their teeth to be cleaned by a vet under general anaesthesia.

Signs of dental disease include plaque and tartar formation which causes discolouration of teeth, red or swollen gums (gingivitis), difficulty eating and chewing, loose teeth, smelly breath and long term disease due to weight loss.

Between July and September we are running a summer dental offer and will be reducing the price of a dental scale and polish, which is carried out under general anaesthetic, to £99 for cats and £149 for dogs*. A saving of over £110!

Members of our Pet Health Club receive 10 per cent off dentistry as well as 10 per cent off all items purchased from the shop, including toothbrushes and paste, plus cost price food. In addition to the standard 10 per cent discount, PHC Platinum Members also receive a further £25 a year towards dental treatment.

Tarin has had regular tooth brushing leaving teeth tartar and gingivitis free

To book a free nurse dental check up or to sign up to the Pet Health Club, please call your local surgery, or visit our website for more information. * price does not include any extractions or medications which your pet is sent home with

Bath Veterinary Group Rosemary Lodge, Wellsway, Bath BA2 5RL 01225 832521 www.bathvetgroup.co.uk

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

Swimming pools, hot tubs, Endless Pools and log cabins

New pool, hot tub and log cabin showroom at Dobbies Garden Centre

Monday – Saturday 9.30am to 5pm and Sunday 10.30am to 4.30pm Allpools and Spas Ltd, Dobbies Garden Centre, Mendip Avenue, Shepton Mallet BA4 4PE Tel: 01749 345770

www.logcabinsales.ltd.uk

Successful, well-established year-round language school in the centre of Bath requires

HOMESTAY HOSTS IN BATH to host both short-term and long-term students.

We teach adults and teenagers, and need both single and twin-room accommodation.

For further details, including rates of payment, please contact our Accommodation Manager: Sarah Wringer, KIE Bath, 5 Trim Street, Bath, BA1 1HB Direct Line (01225) 473502, Email: sarah.wringer@kaplan.com

Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions

B AT H G E T S S ER I O US

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

PHOTO BY CREST NICHOLSON

“I OWN OVER 20,000 LPS KEPT IN A DEDICATED FINNISH LOG CABIN AT THE END OF MY GARDEN”

RETAIL

Which Bath business owner has gone on the record about his love of music? Find out on page 94

THE QUAY TO THE CITY The development work picks up pace at the Bath Quays Waterside The current building work surrounding Avon Street car park represents the first stage of the council’s £6.22million million project for Bath Quays Waterside, which is designed to combine the means of vital flood mitigation with a new waterside destination. The plans – which include upper and lower promenades, cycling and walking routes, wildlife spaces and a large public outdoor events area for thousands of residents and visitors to enjoy – are part of the £250million face lift for the centre of Bath.

While parts of the city and its river banks might look blighted by the disruption the transformation is causing, the projected figures placed on the long term boosts to the economy give truth to the phrase ‘no pain, no gain’.

“Without the flood works, none of the development of the new offices, homes and parkland would be possible,” says Patrick Anketell-Jones B&NES council’s cabinet member for economic development.

“The council is taking the strategic view to improving not just the environment but the economy of our city.”

Figures projected once the work is completed are said to be 2,000 extra jobs and 170 new homes – believed to be similar to the luxe Bath Riverside properties by Crest Nicholson being built along Lower Bristol Road – as well as creative and productive spaces for both new and established businesses.

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk

£250M THE BIG NUMBER

The overall amount being invested to improve Bath city centre.

See story left.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 93

BUSINESS INSIDER

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

PAUL LEWIS Paul Lewis is owner and managing director of Bath’s Bang & Olufsen, the manufacturers of a highly distinctive range of multimedia products. Here Paul talks music, gigs and sound systems…

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

A love of music and a childhood passion for tinkering with audio electronics, splicing and making music with tape loops on my dad’s Bang & Olufsen Beocord 2000 reel-to-reel tape recorder, meant I wanted to be a recording engineer. However, my entrepreneurial father had other ideas for me.

What did your dad do?

He was an industrial designer and inventor, patenting everyday inventions, such as vacuum forming of plastics and double-sided adhesive tape.

What was your first job?

I was a sales rep for my dad’s packaging company in my gap year, and I hated it.

How did you progress into working with Bang & Olufsen?

In 1998, unhappy in corporate life, I decided to downshift into something I actually had a passion for and set up one of the UK’s first custom installation companies, designing and installing top-end, bespoke whole-house multimedia and home automation systems. We also built recording studios. I was then approached by Bang & Olufsen some years back and becoming a partner made absolute sense.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your work?

I love working with a Danish company. The importance of design and an understanding how it can improve our lives is such an important part of Scandinavian life.

What makes your business stand out from your competitors?

Bang & Olufsen is the only high-end, design-led audio business. We have no competition.

Who do you admire professionally?

I admire German industrial designer Dieter Rams, famous for the iconic Braun products in the 1960s and the key influence for Apple’s chief designer, Jonathan Ive. Bang & Olufsen’s key designers, Jacob Jensen and 94 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

David Lewis, may not have produced some of our iconic designs without the influence of Dieter Rams.

Paul’s appreciation of music marries well with his job in the audio industry

What sort of music do you like?

I’m in the audio industry only because of my love of music. My record collection is an obsession and my tastes run from 19th century German composers like Wagner, Mahler and Bruckner through to bands like CAN, Neu! and Kraftwerk. I also love distortion laden guitar bands like Mogwai, My Bloody Valentine and The Jesus and Mary Chain. Music is not a background thing for me; it’s pretty central to my life.

So, how’s your music collection looking…?

Well, I own over 20,000 LPs kept in a dedicated Finnish log cabin at the end of my garden…

Do you find time to watch TV? While the Bang & Olufsen hi-fi is never off, the TV goes on only to watch something specific and it tends to be things like Wallander, The Bridge and The Killing.

What do you love about Bath?

I’m a massive Francophile and Bath has a little of France about it. On a sunny day the town centre reminds me of Aix-en-Provence. Bath is by far my favourite British city.

Where do you like to go in Bath?

The Queensberry Hotel has become a regular weekend home-from-home, while we look to buy a home in Bath. We’re regulars in Clayton’s Kitchen, and lunch at the Cowshed is excellent value. I love browsing in Topping bookshop too.

THE IMPORTANCE OF DESIGN AND AN UNDERSTANDING OF HOW IT CAN Any regrets…?

There’s still a pang at not having followed the musician path, but I work IMPROVE OUR LIVES through that regret by going to gigs IS SUCH AN most weeks.

IMPORTANT PART OF SCANDINAVIAN LIFE

www.bang-olufsen.com

BUSINESS INSIDER

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC

Away the lads - the team in their European kit

Stone King’s Tassy Vincent

GOLD STARS Bath law firm Stone King has been awarded the Investors in People Gold Standard. To achieve gold status, Stone King underwent assessment of its people management practices.

“We are incredibly proud to have received this prestigious award,” says Tassy Vincent, human resources director at Stone King.

“The Gold Standard is only given to only a small number of organisations that have demonstrated excellence in supporting their people.” www.stoneking.co.uk

STRATEGIC THINKING

Bath Marketing Consultancy has just won another award at The M&A Awards - Strategic Marketing Firm of the Year bringing their total to seven industry awards since starting up in 2009. Director Paul Tagent says, “We’ve worked incredibly hard in the last 24 months developing our strategic marketing offer so that our clients can tap further into our knowledge and skillset as much as our deliverables.” www.bathmarketing consultancy.co.uk

FLUSHED WITH SUCCESS Roger Kyme, founder and chief executive of bathroom design firm Ripples, has been awarded a Lifetime Achievement award at the BKU awards, which were held at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre on 23 June. He says, “I am truly honoured and also very grateful for the loyal support of our many clients over the past 28 years.” www.ripples.ltd.uk

BATH RUGBY NEWS Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters

B

ath Rugby will be taking to the road this preseason as they build up to 2016/17, playing fixtures in England, Wales and Ireland.

On 13 August, the men in blue, black and white will be heading up north to face Yorkshire Carnegie – who finished third in last season’s Greene King IPA Championship – at Ilkley RFC. The pace continues when, the following weekend, Bath travel to Parc Eirias in North Wales to meet with Pro12 side Scarlets. The venue, situated in Colwyn Bay, is home to the Wales U20 team and has hosted several international rugby matches.

Bath’s final pre-season fixture takes place in the RDS Arena in Dublin when they take on three-time European champions Leinster on 26 August.

“We’re really pleased to be getting stuck into some tough games against very good opposition for pre-season,” says first team coach Darren Edwards.

“It’ll give some of our new recruits, such as Taulupe Faletau and Luke Charteris, the chance to play

alongside their new teammates ahead of what promises to be a very exciting new season for Bath Rugby.”

The club have also drawn in a fascinating pool for the 2016/17 European Rugby Challenge Cup. There will be two short trips down the motorway for a meeting with newly-promoted derby rivals Bristol Rugby and Welsh opponents Cardiff Blues. The foreign fixture is a trip to the Pyrénées-Atlantiques region of France as Bath take on Section Paloise (better known as ‘Pau’). “One of the great things about European competition is that it gives us an opportunity to go to places like Pau and test ourselves against different styles of play,” says first team coach Toby Booth.

The first round of European Rugby will begin on 13 October, with precise fixture times and dates to be announced soon.

For more: www.bathrugby.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 95

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BUSINESS INSIDER

BREAKING NEWS

DOGGIE TREATS

FANTASTIC FOUR Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing or important local business stories right now PHOTO BY ASH JAMES

SLEEP TALKING A Bath-based designer has launched a new childrenswear brand Sleepy Doe, which specialises in luxurious sleepwear and bedding, and includes matching children’s and ‘mumma’ pyjama sets.

Founder Sophie Woodrow, who has 10 years’ experience in the fashion industry designing clothes for British heritage brands, explains, “I am very proud to be presenting the Sleepy Doe range from my hometown of Bath. This city has influenced me creatively, both across the products themselves and each print.

“For example, the hand-illustrated dancing floral print is inspired by my many trips pushing the buggy around the Botanical Gardens, where the gardens are beautiful all year round.”

Victoria Stent was so worried about the poor ingredients in dog food, she decided to quit her marketing job and launch a healthy pooch range.

Four years later and Four Legged Fancies is a fantastic success story with her handmade, organic and wheat-free treats for dogs, such as Bangers N’ Mash Pupcakes, being stocked in Pets at Home. “We also now supply dog accessories, toys and a newly launched Party Package, which includes an edible pass-theparcel, birthday cake and doggy music playlist,” says Victoria. “My parents were puppy walkers for Guide Dogs for the Blind, so for 35 years I’ve been surrounded by dogs. But this business isn’t just because I am dog mad, but because I genuinely care about keeping nasties out of their food.”

For more: www.fourleggedfancies.co.uk

A new moon rising For more: www.sleepydoe.com

PHOTO BY HEFFERS DESIGN

TRYING HARD

Bath RFC Ladies are on the ball

Following a sensational season, the Bath RFC Ladies is looking for business sponsors on the back of their winning form. The team won 12 out of their 15 games, finishing second in the RFUW Championship South West League, and is now looking for local firms to come in at the ground level and lend their support.

“These sponsors play a crucial part in the success of the team as they support all the aspects that make the team tick including training, kit, travel and coaching. There are many different sponsorship packages to get involved with and there are bespoke options available for all interested business,” explains Sarah Burgess head of section for Bath Rugby Ladies.

For more: bathrugbyladies@hotmail.co.uk

Victoria’s taken the lead with healthy dog food

OFF THE WALL

Ed and his brother are off the wall

A financial adviser from Epoch Wealth Management in Bath ran the length of Hadrian’s Wall in just one day for charity.

Ed Grobler completed 69 miles in 15 hours and 40 minutes, when he took part in the challenging cross-country race that follows the world-famous Roman monument, from Carlisle Castle to the Millennium Bridge in Gateshead on 18 June.

The keen triathlete, who competes in Iron Man events, was helping his nineyear-old daughter Annabelle, and her class at St Mary’s Church of England School in

Timsbury, raise money for their chosen charity WaterAid. “The terrain was a lot more challenging than I had anticipated but it was worth it because I have helped my daughter and her classmates reach their fundraising target,” says Ed, who ran The Wall race with his brother, Johannes, a Bath IT consultant. “And I really enjoyed my celebratory pint of cider after crossing the finishing line!”

For more: www.epochwm.co.uk

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

WINNER’S PROFILE

BATH LIFE AWARDS

SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT WINNER

PHOTO BY PAOLO FERLA

BATH RUGBY Managing director Tarquin Macdonald talks about the club’s community spirit, memorable moments and being in the heart of the city What does winning a Bath Life Award mean to the club?

The Bath Life Awards are a benchmark of recognition in the local area, so to be amongst some hugely successful local businesses is a great privilege.

Tarquin, centre, celebrates Bath Rugby’s win with colleagues Huw Warren and Sarah Tarling

What advice would you give someone looking to go into this sector?

The right person will always thrive in this environment and find it hugely rewarding, but also be prepared for a lot of emotion and significant ups and downs. Go in with your eyes open and you will thoroughly enjoy it.

And where is the award now?

It’s sitting proudly in our reception area at Farleigh House in the club’s training headquarters where it is seen by staff and visitors.

Why do you think the club deserves the award?

I’d like to think it’s a symbol of our place within the community, in the heart of Bath. We are hugely grateful for the support we receive from the residents and businesses based in Bath and the local areas, and in turn we are proud of the work we do to support the community in various ways through our Community and Bath Rugby Foundation programmes.

What do you think makes Bath Rugby such a unique club?

I think there are many factors: we are one of the oldest clubs in the game, have seen some tremendously talented coaches and players represent the club throughout the years, and the position of our ground – in the very heart of the city – means there is a deep connection between club and city.

How do the on-pitch players and the ‘off-pitch’ staff combine their talents?

The players may be the public face of the club, but we are all very driven to make the club successful, on and off the pitch, with everybody working towards those same goals.

What have been your highlights for the club in the last few years?

Reaching the Aviva Premiership final – having finished second in the league – in the 2014-15 season was a top moment for us. And whilst we were disappointed not to win the final, it was also about the journey we took in that season with some fantastic memories of games against the likes of Leicester (twice), Saracens and Toulouse.

Do you think being an active part of the community is important in business?

Definitely. We are incredibly proud of our links with the local community, which are most effectively 98 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

shown through the fantastic work our community and foundation teams do. They are out and about every day helping those less fortunate and making a real impact on young people’s lives.

TOO MANY

OF US, MYSELF INCLUDED, FOCUS ON WHAT IS URGENT AND NOT WHAT IS IMPORTANT

What do you love most about your job?

I work with a lot of brilliant people across the club, we have a lot of great supporters and I am lucky to come into contact with some really interesting people across Bath, so there is definitely the human element. Otherwise it would have to be the variety that comes with the role from club, Premiership and European rugby matters; to the stadium development project; to commercial projects.

It is a fantastically varied and exciting role.

What do you do when you’re not working?

I have two young children who tend to keep me pretty busy outside of work. I enjoy eating and drinking out, which of course is very easy in Bath. I also enjoy running to unwind.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Certainly I would say that whatever business you are in, and however technologically focused or data-driven it may be, ultimately it all comes back to people. You need good people around you, people you can have fun with, and you need to nurture and look after them. I would also be say too many of us, myself included, focus on what is urgent and not what is important. So find a little time each day to focus on the important things.

Who are your business heroes?

I have a few friends from school days who were not brilliant academically, but have each started up their own businesses and made them successful. Their businesses would not appear in an official list but they have created businesses that fund the lifestyles they want, in sectors they are passionate about and enjoy.

Fore more: www.bathrugby.com

Professional studio Families Portraits Events Weddings

8 beatacosgrovephotography@gmail.com @BeataCosgrove f BeataCosgrovePhotographer www.beatacosgrovephotography.com

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E F I N A N C E

THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAIL The FIDELIUS GROUP sees both the bigger picture of the 2016 budget, and reads the small print

T

he Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, delivered his eighth Budget speech on Wednesday 16 March, his third in 12 months. As a reminder, we summarise the key announcements:

THE PERSONAL ALLOWANCE WILL INCREASE TO £11,500, AND THE HIGHER-RATE THRESHOLD WILL RISE TO £45,000 IN APRIL 2017

The personal allowance is the amount of income you can receive before you start paying income tax. This increased to £11,000 for 2016/17, and will increase further to £11,500 in April 2017. The higher-rate threshold is the point at which you pay the higher rate of income tax.

LIFETIME INDIVIDUAL SAVINGS ACCOUNT (LISA): A NEW £4,000 LISA THAT YOU CAN USE TO SAVE FOR RETIREMENT OR TO BUY YOUR FIRST HOME

From April 2017, any adult under 40 will be able to open a new Lifetime ISA (LISA). Up to £4,000 can be saved each year, and savers

will receive a 25 per cent bonus from the government on this money. Money put into this account can be saved until someone is over 60 and used as retirement income, or can be withdrawn to help purchase a first home. The total amount an adult can save each year into all ISAs will increase from £15,240 to £20,000 from April 2017.

CAPITAL GAINS TAX RATES WERE CUT FROM 6 APRIL 2016, BUT RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY IS STILL TAXED AT CURRENT RATES

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is a tax on the gain you make when you sell something (an ‘asset’) that has gone up in value. It is paid at a basic or higher rate depending on the rate of Income Tax you pay. From April 2016, the higher rate of CGT has been reduced from 28 per cent to 20 per cent, and the basic rate from 18 per cent to 10 per cent. There is an additional 8 per cent surcharge paid on residential property and carried interest (the share of profits or gains that is paid to asset managers). CGT on residential property does not apply to your main home, only to additional properties (for example, a flat that you let out).

EXTENSION OF ENTREPRENEURS’ RELIEF

Previously, a disposal of shares in a qualifying company only attracted Entrepreneurs’ Relief (ER) when the individual was an employee and owned at least 5 per cent of the share capital and voting rights for the 12-month period prior to the sale of the shares. ER will now be extended in the form of investors’ relief to external investors purchasing newly issued shares in unlisted trading companies on or after 17 March 2016 that are held for a period of at least three years from 6 April 2016. Investors’ relief will be subject to a lifetime cap of £10m.

CUTTING BUSINESS RATES FOR ALL RATEPAYERS

From April 2017, small businesses that occupy property with a rateable value of £12,000 or less will pay no business rates. Currently, this 100 per cent relief is available if you’re a business that occupies a property, for example, a shop or office with a value of £6,000 or less. There will be a tapered rate of relief on properties worth up to £15,000.

ARE YOUR FINANCIAL PLANS STILL ON TRACK?

In addition to the above, other changes announced concern corporation tax rates, the rules relating to stamp duty, and national insurance contributions for the self-employed.

There are likely to have been a number of key announcements in this budget that could have a bearing on your current and future financial plans. To review what action you may be required to take to keep your plans on track, please contact us.

Group Wealth Management

n

Investments

n

Employee Benefits

Fidelius Alexander House, James Street West, Bath BA1 2BT 01225 334000; www.fidelius.co.uk

Fidelius

Group

This article is for your general information only. The content should not be relied upon in its entirety and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute, advice. Thresholds, percentage rates and tax legislation may change in subsequent Finance Acts. Levels and bases of, and reliefs from, taxation are subject to change and their value. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate tax planning. Fidelius Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Our FCA reference is 188615. Registered No.3658809 ENGLAND. Registered office: Alexander House, James Street West, Bath, BA1 2BT.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 103

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

Designed with nature in mind, this eco-friendly home seamlessly integrates the outside with the inside

By E V E LY N GR E E N

104 LIFELIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 112 II BATH CLIFTON I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 105 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 113

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

W

hen individuals take the fight for sustainability into their own hands, things get very interesting indeed.

Take Lansdown’s Birch House, for example, which was designed and built by the current owners who brought very specific requests to the drafting table.

The family wanted to shout out ‘honey, I’m home!’ in a magnificent house that had eco-friendly, contemporary living at its heart. Seeking a closer relationship between interior and exterior, they created a property – entirely from modern materials and techniques – that exploits the benefits of Britain’s seasonal flutters to optimise thermal comfort, energy efficiency and natural lighting. In other words, it’s cool as a cucumber in the summer, and stays toasty in the winter. There’s a snazzy underfloor heating system throughout the place which gives off an ambient heat in the colder months, and, during the summer, light can positively flood through the floor-to-ceiling windows which open fully to create a sense of bringing the outside in. The bespoke outer shell of the house looks the part, too, with its appealing larch-clad, natural-look exterior and the planted sedum living green roof fitting right into its plush, leafy surrounds.

There’s also a beautifully landscaped, south east-facing garden with level lawn areas and a gravel pathway leading to the private driveway for several cars. There’s even an automatic, twinkly lighting system which illuminates the pathway when coming from the driveway to the house.

It’s nestled in an idyllic and peaceful private plot just off the green in Richmond Place and looks out on 106 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise from top left: The master bedroom is bright and roomy; the open-plan living area is on the top floor, looking out over spectacular vistas; we love the modern his ‘n’ hers bathroom; a clean and neutral décor gives the dining area a Scandi-style look

HOUSE NUMBERS

2,900

square feet of space

£1.47m guide price

5

bedrooms

1

Private, landscaped garden

to pretty woodland views through to the city rooftops below. Perched on the northern slopes of Bath, the home has a private feel and is in a much-desired, renowned residential area. Perfect for families with young kids, there’s a children’s play area which is run by the local community and excellent state and independent schools, which include the well-respected St Stephen’s Primary School along with The Royal High and Kingswood.

The city centre – with its quirky independent shops and cultural hotspots like the Holburne Museum and The Theatre Royal – is just a stone’s throw away and there are world-class sporting facilities nearby at Bath University, Bath Rugby Club and the cricket club, together with an eclectic selection of stylish restaurants, chi-chi cafés and swish wine bars.

Inside, the décor is minimalist, pristine and fresh; there’s a master bedroom suite, three double bedrooms – all with en suite shower rooms – a family bathroom and further bedroom which can also be used as a study.

The sleeping area is on the ground floor so that the living space is situated upstairs and can make the most of those spectacular vistas. The open plan living, kitchen and dining area is fantastically bright and spacious and spans across the entire upper floor, creating an impressive and inspiring space, opening onto a large, decked, glassfronted balcony across the back of the building.

Whoever is next to dwell here is sure to be awed by the wondrous views and visionary architecture in a home that effortlessly combines environmental awareness with modern style.

Hamptons International, 3 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2NT, 01225 220 180; www.hamptons.co.uk

Holt. Guide Price ÂŁ500,000.

Tyeburn is a very attractive village home, superbly presented inside & out, essential viewing for discerning buyers.

Wow factor No.1 is the fashionably large kitchen family room across most of the rear of the house. Not only is this a fabulous space but it will be the heart of the home where smart bi-fold doors seamlessly join the house to the pretty gardens. The sitting room has a fireplace with multi fuel stove. We also find a cloakroom & a good utility room. Upstairs are five bedrooms, the master enjoying an ensuite shower room, the other four share a modern family bathroom. These are set around an attractive galleried landing.

Wow factor No.2 is beautifully tended gardens, clearly a source of pride & joy. We find neat vegetable patches, water feature, lawns to side, front & rear & well stocked beds & borders. The covered patio looks ideal for parties as it adjoins the kitchen & extends across the rear of the house giving room for the hot tub. The sunny garden enjoys a south west aspect. Garage & parking.

Tel: 01225 866747 27 Market Street, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, BA15 1LL email: info@jeremyjenkins.co.uk • website: www.jeremyjenkins.co.uk

THE APARTMENT COMPANY

Northanger Court

St Patricks Court

Sales: 01225 471144

in £210,000

Victorian property • Ground floor apartment • Private garden • Newly decorated • One double bedroom • Approx 439 Sq Ft

abrd

Widcombe Crescent

£300,000

Grade I Listed • Georgian • Second floor apartment • One bedroom • Fabulous views • Large sitting room • Prestigious location

in

in sol ju d ne Newbridge Road

£540,000

Modern building • Ground floor apartment • Three bedrooms • Sitting room with dining area • Allocated garage parking • Communal garden

in £345,000

Modern building • Third floor apartment • Two double bedrooms • South facing balcony • Short walk from the City • Visitors parking

in sol ju d ne

£250,000

Period property • Ground floor apartment • One bedroom • Newly refurbished • Open plan living area • Communal courtyard

Northanger Court

sol ju d ne

in sol ju d ne £400,000

Grade II Listed • Georgian • Second floor apartment • Two bedrooms • Communal gardens • Residents parking • Sought after location

Old Orchard Street

£590,000

Modern building • Second floor apartment • Three bedrooms • Sitting room with dining area • Allocated garage parking • Communal garden

in sol ju d ne Catharine Place

sol ju d ne

in £700,000

Grade I Listed • Georgian • Ground and lower ground floor • Garden • Three bedrooms • Sought after location • Approx 1,530 Sq Ft

sol ju d ne

Lansdown Crescent

sol ju d ne

sol ju d ne

in

Selling & Letting Bath’s finest apartments

Newbridge Road

£185,000

Victorian property • First floor apartment • Spacious sitting room • Separate kitchen • Double bedroom • Approx 352 Sq Ft

£1,100 pcm

let ju ne in let ju ne in

let ju ne in let ju ne in

let ju ne in

Period property • Two bedrooms • Beautifully presented • Fabulous views • Garage and parking • Well maintained communal garden

let ju ne in

let ju ne in let ju ne in let ju ne in

Lettings: 01225 303870

Druids Garth

managed

£1,100 pcm

Period property • First floor apartment • Two double bedrooms • Allocated parking space • Communal garden • Quiet location • Unfurnished

£1,195 pcm

Georgian apartment • Second floor • Two bedrooms • Modern storage heaters • Well presented • Residents parking permit

£1,350 pcm

Period property • Three double bedrooms • Newly refurbished • New bathroom & shower room • Luxury kitchen • Resident parking permit

managed

managed

Weston Lodge

Marlborough Buildings

Kingston Road

managed

£1,200 pcm

Period property • Two bedrooms • Decked roof terrace • Permit parking • Central location • New kitchen • Maisonette • Beautifully presented

£1,550 pcm

Georgian apartment • First floor • Three bedrooms • Spacious • Central location • Dual aspect • Approx 1,113 Sq Ft • Furnished

managed

managed

London Street

Portland Place

managed

£1,650 pcm

Prestigious residence • Second floor apartment • Two double bedrooms both with en-suites • Gated entrance • Beautifully communal areas

managed

managed

Cavendish Lodge

St James’ Square

£975 pcm

Rivers Street

£775 pcm

Georgian apartment • One double bedroom • Favoured location • Close to shops and local amenities • No pets • Well presented

abrd

Georgian apartment • Second floor • Double bedroom • Dine in kitchen • Period features • Bright accomodation • Central location • No pets

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E P R O P E R T Y

HOW BREXIT IS IMPACTING ON THE BATH PROPERTY MARKET

T

Peter Greatorex at THE APARTMENT COMPANY discusses how property investors, sellers and buyers in Bath are reacting to the recent Brexit result

here have been many ‘project fear’ messages surrounding the Brexit decision and what will, may and won’t happen. If the recent events prove anything, it is nothing can be predicted and therefore we take each day as it comes.

There is no doubt that the market is different to last week that is inevitable, however we are still booking plenty of viewings and receiving offers from serious buyers. Our lettings team have also been busy; they’ve agreed more than 20 lets in June, six of which were just days after the results.

Investing in Bath property for the long term is still very much a viable option, particularly for overseas buyers who are getting an extremely good exchange rate at present.

Bath has a strong and stable property market due to its world heritage status and now with the planned electrification of the rail link to London.

These are two key factors that have created an exciting alternative to investors who would otherwise be purchasing in the capital.

We have also seen an increase in the number of overseas investors who are seeking to capitalise on the current exchange rate which has made purchasing UK property a very attractive proposition.

We will continue to bring you an honest reflection of where our property market is placed, as this can often be extremely different to other cities across the UK. There is no need to panic if you are looking to buy, sell, let or rent a property in Bath, and from the conversations we are having our clients agree.

We are confident that the strength of our local market will continue to create a stable environment for the near future. As specialists, our knowledge within the Bath apartment market means we can be ahead of any changes, present

solutions and offer you the best advice for you and your property.

With stock markets showing a speedy recovery, we believe that property prices will hold firm and so now is a time to simply stay calm and carry on.

Peter Greatorex, 29 June 2016

For more advice visit our blog at www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk/newssearch.aspx Sales: 01225 471144 Lettings: 01225 303870 www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk

BATH'S RELOCATION SPECIALISTS

SMOOTHING YOUR PATH TO BATH LIFE Contact Louise Scott to discuss any aspect of your move email: louise@yellowbrickrelocation.co.uk tel: 07437 353412

BATH

CHELTENHAM STREET

IMPECCABLY DESIGNED FOUR BED TOWNHOUSES EPC A rated • Garage parking • Garden laid to lawn • Underfloor heating throughout • High quality fully fitted kitchen • Fitted water softener • Buildzone 10 year warranty • Superb central location • Nearest train station: Bath Spa 0.8m

PRICES FROM £595,000 FREEHOLD

T: 01225 466225 E: lheath@pritchards-bath.co.uk

P R O P E R T Y A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

A GUARANTEED RETURN ON BEAUTIFUL BATH DEVELOPMENT Smart property investors are attracted to Bath’s leading new property development where the promise of a six per cent yield is being guaranteed for a 24 month* period

A

vailable at Crest Nicholson’s Bath Riverside the opportunity to secure the eye-catching returns is likely to tempt canny, cash-heavy investors to what is regarded as one of the best examples of inner city regeneration in the UK. Within walking distance of Bath city centre and Bath Spa railway station – which is ideal for commuters – a burgeoning student population has placed additional pressure on the city’s rental stock.

This will add further to the appeal of the development to those looking to place their cash in bricks and mortar which, with its central location and high-end spec, has appealed to tenants looking for somewhere suitable to live.

Availability at the award-winning development currently includes a selection of one and two-bedroom apartments in Alexandra House, often seen as the preferred choice for investors.

The urgency to act now has been heightened further by the fact that the Alexandra House apartments are set to be the last properties of this type for at least two years, so anyone thinking about investing are being advised to do so before it’s too late.

Christine Hamilton, Crest Nicholson sales advisor, explains, “With conventional 118 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

investments continuing to produce disappointingly low returns, opinion suggests that a far more attractive return is offered by investing in property – and in particular newbuild properties.

“Bath Riverside offers investors the best opportunity in the area, consistently delivering higher returns than any other development.

As well as a whole host of aesthetic considerations we are guaranteeing investors a six per cent yield for 24 months.

“The properties available are ideally suited to today’s typical tenant and its central location is also ideal.

“For those who might work further afield, the train station is also close by. And with work to electrify the main line from Bath to London well under way, will reduce further commuting times for those who might have to travel to London for work.

“There are many reasons why someone who is interested in investing in property might choose to look at a new building, rather than an older one. The most obvious is that they can expect there to be virtually no initial maintenance costs – always a tremendous benefit for a landlord.

“Also, the first impression made on potential tenants of an immaculate new building is likely to be very favourable.

“Tenants who live here will have the advantage of having everything right on their doorstep and is why we believe Bath holds all the cards when it comes to tempting investors.

“Striking now would mean getting the most from the investment not only in terms of potential equity, but future rental returns.” *Guaranteed six per cent yield for the first 24 months based on top up from minimum rental achieved

For further information please call 01225 463 517 or visit www.crestnicholson.com/bathriverside The marketing suite on Victoria Bridge Road is open daily from 10am to 5pm

SERVICES GUIDE

ROOFING

GUIDE to SERVICES

D R Vowles & Son Ltd are highly reputable roofing contractors based in Bath, Somerset. We provide premier roofing services for residential, commercial and industrial clients with properties throughout the south west.

For more information please call Liz today

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL THE BATH LIFE TEAM ON 01225 475800

01225 425232

Upper Weston Farm, Weston, BATH BA1 4HL

drvowlesandson.co.uk

in the

CITY

SKIPS

Friendly, local skip company Fast, reliable service A range of skip sizes available 01225 862574

07831 233957

www. c o un t r y m i n i sk i p s. com GARDENING

Richard Brook POND & AQUATIC SYSTEMS

DESIGN � CONSTRUCTION � CLEANING � MAINTENANCE BLANKET WEED SOLUTIONS AND MORE T: 07834 973945 E: richard.brook9@btinternet.com

WWW.PONDANDAQUATICSYSTEMS.CO.UK

Luxury & local The most sophisticated audience is just a call away

HOUSEKEEPING

Laundry and Ironing Services Tailored to your needs Domestic and Commercial

www.bathhousekeeping.com 01225 292141 | 07977563167 info@sparklingmatters.com

✆ 01225 475800

2

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lishe

Estab

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SERVICES GUIDE

MARKETING

ALLERGY TESTING

ALLERGY TESTING Feeling unwell? May I help you?

ARE YOU FIT INSIDE AND OUT?

uk co. st. yte erg all w. ww

Headaches & migraine, tiredness & fatigue, weight problems, eczema or other skin problems, asthma, catarrh & sinus congestion, IBS & digestive disorders, anxiety & depression.

If you suffer with any of the above complaints, an hour’s test could change your life!

For your nearest tester please contact Cindy on 07747 800097 or Email: allergytesting@churchviews.co.uk / www.allergytest.co.uk For local appointments please contact: Clarion Health, 2-4 Henry Street, Bath Tel: 01225 448348

STONE SPECIALISTS

NORTON MASONRY LTD Repairs, Restoration Alteration of Stone Buildings New Build Stone Cleaning Stone Carving Fireplaces

Tel: 01225 462688 / 07968 697091 Email: Julian@bathstonemasons.co.uk

www.bathstonemasons.co.uk PLASTERING

Stonework Specialists & General Builders 38 LONG BARNABY, MIDSOMER NORTON, RADSTOCK BA3 2TZ

Tel/Fax: 01761 419422 Fax: 01761 232480 Mobile: 07901 712232 / 07899 927276

Email: nortonmasonryltd@hotmail.co.uk

www.nortonmasonryltd.co.uk Over 30 Years Experience

DATING AGENCY

Looking to find that special someone?

Caroline Crowther is a truly local personal introduction agency helping you meet someone new in your area. We offer a long term personal service until you find your perfect match.

For a professional and personal service call

01934 744788

or

0800 180 4788

www.carolinecrowther.com

JEWELLERY

DECORATING

STONE SPECIALISTS

Paul Swift Nigel Dando

Painting and Decorating

WE BUY Gold, Silver & Platinum in any form or condition.

45 Old Fosse Road Odd Down, Bath BA2 2SP

Nigel Dando

Tel: 01225 352437 07894 210446 Fax: 01225 350429

11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AY Tel/Fax: 01225 464013 www.nigeldando.co.uk

Member of Painting, Decorating Association

DAVIS MASONARY Natural stone specialist Bath stone restoration Walling Re-pointing t: 07910 621 316 e: jack_fb_123@hotmail.co.uk

PA & AV HIRE

B AT H L I V E S

Q&A

A

fter training at The Ritz London and Westminster College, top chef Graham Plumb now leads the Searcys catering team within Bath’s historic venues. Here we catch up with him and find out why he thinks he has the best job in the city...

After working as a chef at The Ritz and The Royal Crescent, you came to The Pump Room Restaurant, where you’re still based 30 years on. What is it that draws you to the foodie scene?

I believe I have the best job in catering in the city.

I have been lucky enough to work as a head chef for 14 years and now I’m general manager of Bath’s Historic Venues. I’ve been at The Pump Room for over 30 years and am responsible for leading Searcys’ catering team. My job is always different and it can throw up different challenges that you would just not get working in one hotel or restaurant. One day you could be dealing with a customer in The Pump Room, and the next you could be working on a dinner for 500 at the Assembly Rooms, or arranging a night time champagne reception at the Roman Baths by torchlight.

What has changed on the dining/catering scene since you got involved?

The biggest change we have seen in Bath is the customer’s expectation of what they want and their knowledge about food. With there being so many great restaurants in the city now, caterers have to be continually reinventing themselves.

Best bits of the job?

I work with some fantastic people that I know I can always rely on to get the job done. I have been working with my banqueting manager and head chef at the Pump Room for over three decades.

Working in such wonderful surroundings as The Pump Room and Assembly Rooms is also an added bonus and one that is very easy to take for granted.

Any downsides?

The biggest frustration of the job is dealing with the real shortage of staff that want to work in the catering trade in the Bath area.

GRAHAM PLUMB The Bath foodie stalwart talks working at The Ritz, Sunday roasts in the city and his secret, adrenalin-fuelled hobby What’s your favourite meal?

A barbeque at home in the garden with the family and friends – a perfect way to relax on a day off.

Most treasured possession?

My mountain bike; getting on that and going downhill at speed is a great way to let of steam at the end of a busy week; and, by going out cycling, you spot places in and around Bath you would never normally see.

Where’s home and what are the pleasures of living and working in Bath?

I moved to Bath in 1985 and live in Fairfield Park.

I love being able to walk 20 minutes in one direction and be in the centre of town, and then walk 20 minutes the other way and be in the middle of the countryside.

Share a favourite spot in the city…

I love being able to walk or cycle around Charlcombe and take in the views across to Solsbury Hill.

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

Your favourite Bath restaurant, pub and shop?

My top restaurant is The Beaufort on London Road where I have my Sunday roasts. They are great hosts there and showcase simple cooking done well. I enjoy a walk along the canal to Widcombe, after which I pop into The Ram for a beer. And when it comes to shops, I’m not really a fan of shopping, so I always try to avoid it if at all possible!

Your finest hour?

At the age of 17 I was offered a job in the pastry team at The Ritz London.

Future plans?

I’m going to visit my youngest son in Canada next year and go biking on Whistler Mountain. I’m also looking forward to the challenge of the heaviest tourist period in the city, meaning many afternoon teas and lots of weddings and events. Oh and I’m already arranging and confirming corporate Christmas parties! www.bathvenues.co.uk