Bath Life - issue 320

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N E D OF ET ID S E H T R E RE ST TH EC M S SO IL

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property @BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 320 / 19 AUGUST – 2 SEPTEMBER 2016 / £3

ISSUE 320 / 19 AUGUST – 2 SEPTEMBER 2016 / GETTING CRAFTY

ROCK ROLL A D A M

C R E AT I V E C U LT U R E

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BATH’S GOT TALENT

MEET THE CHEF AT NEW RESTAURANT HENRY’S

C A L K I N

PUTTING THE COOL INTO WALLPAPER

EXPLORE A RARE GEORGIAN GEM ON THE CIRCUS

… AN D L O T S MOR E C OURSES, FROM PERFUMERY TO MIND F UL NE SS

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 320 / 19 AUGUST – 2 SEPTEMBER 2016

Spark your creativity

24

COURSE YOU CAN

Be inspired by the city’s imaginative workshops

This city, as we well know, is buzzing with pioneering visionaries and talented types, so in celebration, we’ve been shining the spotlight on the groups and individuals – from graphic designers to bespoke print artists – to discover where their innovation and forward-thinking stems from (page 50). Sticking with this artistic theme, turn to page 24 to meet the creatives behind some of the city’s coolest courses, classes and workshops – including Adam Calkin, a highly regarded decorative designer known for his original murals and intricate wallpaper designs – who have the skills to inspire us to try our hand at something new.

And we don’t stop there, we’ve also been exploring Milsom Street and chatting with the people behind the eclectic, diverse and inventive businesses to find out about the secrets of the thoroughfare and what lies beneath (page 72).

Add into the mix shopping for luxurious beachy favourites (page 70), reviewing Henry’s, a French-inspired restaurant run by a young chef with a glittering gastronomic past (page 58) and dreaming about what it might be like to live in an extra-special home in one of the city’s prime locations (page 92), and we think there’s enough to fascinating fuel to fire up everyone’s appetite for imagination.

Lisa Evans, Editor Follow us on Twitter: @BathLifeMag Follow us on Instagram:@bathlifemag

PHOTO BYJESSIE MYERS

FEATURES / ISSUE 320 / 19 AUGUST – 2 SEPTEMBER 2016

Uncover the marvellous secrets of Milsom Street

72

STREET LIFE

Get to know the brains behind the independent businesses on our Milsom Street doorstep

106 Bath lives

Meet Kingswood School’s Susannah Mansfield

REGULARS / ISSUE 320 / 19 AUGUST – 2 SEPTEMBER 2016 M E ET T H E T EAM

THE ARTS

Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk

33 Arts intro We feel the pull of Bath artist Catherine Beale’s gravity-painted watercolours

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 Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: David Flatman, Nic Bottomley, Emma Bond, Jennifer Jennings Wright, Ben Franks and Rosie Hurley 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

34 What’s on Time to update the events diary

47 Bookshelf Nic Bottomley focusses on women’s lyrical life stories

49 Reel to reel Jennifer Jennings Wright previews The Little’s latest screenings

50 Creative culture

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

From graphic designers to clothing painters, meet the city’s creators

FOOD 58 Restaurant We take the taste test at Henry’s, one of Bath’s newest indie eateries

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

65 Wine time Ben Franks’ summery choices

67 Food & drink news From a gourmet street kitchen to an eco-artisan bakery, here’s what’s new in the foodie world

SHOPPING 70 Editor’s choice Take us to the beach

LIFEST YLE 78 Gardening Emma Bond on end-of-summer outdoor tasks

TRAVEL 80 Out of town We head to Kensington for a weekend of celebrations

50

Bath Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

BUSINESS

DEPARTMENTS

83 Business insider

9 12 21

News, views and interviews from Bath’s business professionals

Spotlight Society A man’s 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 92 Property showcase See inside a home that occupies a rare and important position in the city

On the cover Decorative artist Adam Calkin poses with one of his delicate, bespoke walllpaper creations.

Photograph by Mike Garlick, by kind permission of Lewis & Wood

BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES

Natasha and Amy practice scrum tactics

“And this one goes out to Mr Darcy”

FESTIVAL

Bath’s most famous author (and, dear reader, we don’t want to hear any talk about her not liking this lovely city) is going to celebrated at the 16th annual Jane Austen Festival.

Starting on 9 September for 10 days, Austen-related events will take place all over Bath, including the now-legendary Regency Costumed Promenade, which starts at the Assembly Rooms and requires all participants to wear clothes from the era.

There’s also some new surprises as well as the return of old favourites, as festival director Jackie Herring explains, “We are delighted this year to be working with the Abbey Hotel in North Parade. Not only are they a venue for three new events, they are also offering a very special food deal on the Sunday and have created a special cocktail called Northangover Abbey.

“And The Natural Theatre Company have returned with their very own hilarious piece of street theatre Austen Undone! too.”

For more: www.janeaustenfestivalbath.co.uk

T050

THANKS TO WWW.FITPRO.COM

AUSTEN POWERS

OLYMPICS

FIRST TRY IN RIO Two University of Bath graduates have made history in Rio as part of the GB women’s rugby sevens squad, as the sport made its debut at the Olympics.

Natasha Hunt and Amy Wilson Hardy have both represented the University of Bath Women’s Rugby Team in British Universities

and Colleges Sport (BUCS) competitions. And they have been working towards Rio 2016 selection ever since, competing in the HSBC World Rugby Women’s Sevens Series last season as professional athletes.

“The University of Bath Women’s Rugby Team is immensely proud of both

their achievements, “ says head coach Caryl Thomas.

“Natasha and Amy have worked hard and balanced training, studies and working to get to where they are.

“They are both great role models for aspiring young players.”

For more: www.teambath.com

SPOTLIGHT Bath Life Award winners are united in their delight

CHARITY

CHUKKA PUKKA Six award-winning South West chefs, who have six Michelin-stars between them, are ponying up their talents to raise money for charity Sam Moody cooks Hospitality Action. for a good cause Sam Moody of The Bath Priory, will be joined by Michael Bedford of The Calcot Collection, Martin Burge of Whatley Manor, Josh Eggleton of The Pony & Trap, Hywel Jones of Lucknam Park, and Richard Picard-Edwards of Lords of the Manor at the Beaufort Polo Club in

Gloucestershire on 11 September for the seventh annual fundraising Polo Day. Each of the chefs will contribute towards a delicious three-course meal with help from service professionals from City of Bath College, The Abbey Hotel and The Pig near Bath.

“Over the years the event has grown in popularity and this year the event sold out in record time,” says chairman of the Hospitality Action South West fundraising board. “Last year saw over £50,000 raised for Hospitality Action and we all want to top this in 2016.”

Hospitality Action is the trade charity offering support to people of all ages, working and retired, from the hospitality industry.

For more: www.hospitalityaction.org.uk

WEDDINGS

WEDDING DELLS Who needs a wedding fair, when you can have a touring wedding festival? The BoShow is on-the-road and on its way to Bath, bringing with it ideas for tipi nuptials, bridal meadow catwalks and street food receptions.

Run by Bohemian Dreams, who describe themselves as “a bunch of crazy wedding enthusiasts”, the show, which is being held in a field off Englishcombe Lane, Bath, on 25 September, features a great line-up including over 70 local suppliers, with chill-out tent hire specialists Smoky Tentacles and the vintage gift shop Heartfelt Vintage as main sponsors.

“The field overlooks the countryside which will be transformed on the day with tents, tipis and pop-ups so guests will be able to soak up the outdoors and enjoy the festival atmosphere,” says the festival’s founder Bella Ubhi. “The BoShow Festival is a fantastic day out and we pride ourselves in being a little different.”

For more: www.boshow.co.uk

The groom wins this round of hide and seek

BATH LIFE AWARDS

WINNING WAYS Want to know how to win a Bath Life Award? There’s a free seminar on 19 September at the Gainsborough Hotel, which will reveal all.

“The aim is to explain exactly how it all works and to give Bath businesses the insight so that they can make their best possible case to win one of these highly sought after awards,” says MediaClash’s event manager Stephanie Dodd.

Companies can sign up at www. bathlifeawards.co.uk/how-nominate.

The presentation will also be on the site afterwards, and top tips will be published in Bath Life.

Current sponsors include: the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa (Headline) plus category sponsors Savills, Apex Hotels, Novia, Bath Rugby, Stone King, Bath Audi, Bluefin, Minuteman, Bath VW, Tile & Flooring, Fidelius and First Bus. Nominations open on 1 November and the awards are on 23 February 2017. For sponsorship enquiries, please contact pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk @BathLifeAwards

Adventures in party-going

Jon Murphy

SCENE

Ian and Christa Taylor

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

CHECKING IN

Patricia and David Batts, and David and Lucy Simon

Ian and Christa Taylor, and Jonathan Walker hosted a sneak preview of their new boutique townhouse hotel No.15 Great Pulteney on 19 July.

One of the many highlights of the delightful night included the fairytale banquet floral display, created by Bath-based florist, Passion.

Photos by Paolo Ferla www.ferlapaolo.com

Jessica and Adam Lloyd-Smith

Sarah Cole

Emma Frayling, Sabrina Kent and Gemma Sampson

Kate Authers

Nicholas Wylde

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

SOCIETY

Danny and Linda Callaghan

PHOTO FINISH Racegoers and Bath Life competition winners gathered on 20 July for an exclusive celebration at the opening of the new Langridge Grandstand, which marked the completion of the racecourse’s multi-million pound redevelopment programme. They enjoyed spectacular views of the races, and an al fresco grazing menu along with drinks from the spacious new bar.

Photos by Jessie Myers www.soul-media.co.uk

Dan Instance and Tony Kirby

Bridget and Michael Gooden

Tim Simmons, Ray Black and Paul White

Kate Oreshko and Ben Jenkins Sarah Dunbar, Emma Burkitt, Cassandra Shackleford, Amy Dolman and Viv Hansford

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

SOCIETY

MIXED DRINKS Juice Recruitment and Withy King Solicitors hosted a summer drinks event at Circo Bar on 21 July to launch the new programme for the Bath & West Wiltshire HR Forum, which is a network of professionals who meet regularly to discuss new legislation and employment law updates.

Photos by Jessie Myers www.soul-media.co.uk Haylie Carr, Emma Summers and Katie Drew

Alison Watson and Ross Jones

Sam Evans, Mihaela Spirovo and Richard White

Katie Drew, Holly Walmesley and Nathan Rowlands

Pip Galland and Caroline Holden

Andrew Summers, Jayne Rolls and Richard White

Olivia Fitzer and Michaela Spirovo Hannah Williams and Katherine Raderecht

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

SOCIETY Holly Mitchell

FLAMINGO ROAD Amanda Brown, founder of the Widcombe-based Flamingo arts and gifts shop, invited wedding industry professionals to join her for a drinks reception to highlight her new range of wedding accessories.

In between the chat, cake and prosecco, guests also got the chance to enjoy a hand massage courtesy of Holly Mitchell from Echo Holistics.

Nick Steel

Photos by Laura Babb www.babbphoto.com

Amanda Brown

Jane Spragg, Cynthia Mannings, Carole Waller and Sal Godfrey

CLASS MATES

Michelle and Russell Brooks

Bath businesses went back to school when Kingswood Prep School was the venue for a recent get together.

Local businesses were invited to attend a fun evening with drinks and canapÊs, along with some surprise guests including The Natural Theatre Company’s Paparazzi.

Bath Business Community Ben Cundy, Paul Baines, Tim Moss, Susannah Mansfield, Anne Moss and Darren Spencer

The Natural Theatre Company Paparazzi, with Simon Morris and George Batterham

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

A MAN’S WORLD

DAVID FLATMAN

LAZY DAYS OF SUMMER Flats assesses whether his non-existent desire to go abroad is due to contentment or laziness

W

hat’s the point, my sun-worshipping friend asked, in going on holiday to Devon when you live in Bath?

His point was that, a bit of water aside, it just isn’t all that different. And I think he may have a point.

Spending time down here (I’m in a Devonian café as I type) couldn’t ever be called terribly exotic, but I believe this to be a great part of its overall appeal.

Some folk love to travel abroad and I can see why, but for me this is not an automatic, natural desire. Perhaps this is to do with having no need to feel any warmer than I do in England (actually, I find Bath rather too tropical most of the time), but it is certainly also to do with convenience. Or laziness.

A few days ago, we decided to head to Devon as a bit of free time popped up. We gave the kitchen a tidy up, emptied all the bins, stuffed some bags and some dogs and a cat into the Land Rover, and left. En route we stopped for a cream tea and to allow the animals to stretch their legs (this is code for defecate in awkward places and growl at passersby). Having grabbed some essentials from the local shop, we unloaded the car and put the kettle on.

Three hours after leaving home, we were settled and fed, and deciding what to do next. Had we been travelling to Greece or Spain or Dubai, we’d still have been negotiating airport car park transfer buses and check-in gates and wiping down the seats of grotty public loos before hyperactive children climbed aboard.

We used a lovely farm shop and some lush hedgerow for the kids’ convenience on the way west, and you don’t need to wipe

down bushes.

The next morning we were out on the water before nine o’clock and were pottering from beach to beach. Admittedly, I cocked up the anchoring and mooring of the boat a few times – and also fell into the Salcombe estuary once while attempting to board a kayak – but that became part of the fun. Then it began to rain. And then it began to pour.

I guess the lack of constant sun might be an issue for some, but we all had a great laugh as we got drenched. Except Mrs F – she hated it – but three out of four’s not so bad. And again, 20 minutes after we decided enough was enough, we were clambering back into the car and heading for home, giggling all the way as we shivered and covered said vehicle with sand, salty water and sodden sandwiches.

We repeated the drill the following day, and this time the sun held out. It was truly gorgeous and we could have been anywhere. But we weren’t just anywhere, we were in hot, sunny, friendly, convenient Devon. As Mrs F stole 30-second stints between childnegotiations on the beach towel and I felt my bare head sizzle, we began one of those lottery-win chats.

In short, we’d never leave Bath, but we wouldn’t mind a nice sixbedder in the land of clotted cream. My friend was right, it’s just like Bath, only wetter. And it seems that’s why we love it.

ACTUALLY, I FIND BATH RATHER TOO TROPICAL MOST OF THE TIME

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

COURSES AND CLASSES

STAY the COURSE

This page: Vintage Paint pots at Homefront Interiors; opposite page, clockwise from top left: decorative artist Adam Calkin’s nature-inspired verre églomisé; floral arrangements at Article, Bath; candle-making at Article, Bath; Adam Calkin at his workshop

Love to create, learn and discover? From upcyling to perfumery, and stacks of non-crafty ideas in between, here’s our guide to some of the most interesting adult courses in the city . . .

By L I SA E VA NS

INTERIOR STYLING

Adam Calkin Interior Decoration Former punk-rock fashion designer Adam Calkin, who is now recognised as one of the UK’s leading decorative painters, has, for 35 years, decorated private properties, hotels and restaurants around the world. Known for his imaginative murals and specialist finishes, he also designs bestselling, hand-painted wallpapers and fabrics for Lewis & Wood and Osborne & Little from his studio near Bath. The three courses that Adam is currently offering in Atworth and Box have been developed after teaching his daughter Clemency, the tricks of the trade. September’s courses are in decorative finishes – stone, marble, wood and trompe-l’œil; October’s focus on verre églomisé (which translates as gilded glass) and painting on glass; and, in November, learn all about wallpaper and fabric design. The informal courses begin with two days for beginners followed by more advanced three-day courses which draw on Adam’s vast expertise.

Look out for: A beautifully hand-painted invitation from Adam when you book a course.

Albion House, 47 Bath Road, Atworth, Wiltshire; www.adamcalkin.com

Homefront Interiors Owned by Vanessa Clark, the shop is mainly known for its eclectic, carefully curated mix of handmade, upcycled and reclaimed artisan-made products, but, this September, it’s launching a series of painting workshops to demonstrate how chalk-based paint can be used to best effect. In addition, you’ll find half-day lampshade-making courses, plus relaxed knitting, sewing and soft furnishing groups.

Look out for: Regular, one-day classes which teach you how to upcycle and distress furniture.

10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk 24 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Article The shop on Bartlett Street specialises in homewares, textiles and ceramics and is often visited for its ‘scent room’ – a little space, stuffed full of fresh flowers, where owner Lucy Simon puts together arrangements for locals and bridesto-be. Lucy also makes her own scented candles, poured in her studio at the shop, and says it was a natural progression to start offering courses in floristry and candle-making.

“I love giving talks on elements of botany and perfumery, which I am doing this year,” she says. “This department is growing (I should say ‘blooming’) and we are now renovating the basement level to accommodate a special flower studio, cold room and scent lab. My business is really built around creativity, the arts and the experience of growing up in England with its wonderful cities of interesting shops and history, blended with our beautiful rural regions.”

Look out for: Upcoming courses this autumn – from the drying of hydrangeas, to the history of perfumery.

3 Bartlett Street, Bath; www.articlebath.com w

WE ARE RENOVATING THE BASEMENT LEVEL TO ACCOMMODATE A SPECIAL FLOWER STUDIO, COLD ROOM AND SCENT LAB

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 25

Photo by JESSE WILD

Photo by Adam Carter

Photo by Adam Carter

COURSES AND CLASSES

CRAFT WORKS

The Camden Creative Company With a degree in graphic design and a love of making with fabric, Annie Wallis co-opened this business with friend Amanda Wood who trained in textiles at the London College of Fashion.

Having opened its doors in February, the venture aims to inspire and nurture creativity. At the stylish, contemporary studio, you can learn skills from screen-printing and embroidery, to lampshade-making and lino-printing. From next year, they will be inviting guest tutors to run a variety of new and exciting classes, broadening the range of classes available. “Our workshops aren’t just about learning new skills, they are understated luxuries,” say Amanda and Annie. “It’s a working studio where clients will be surrounded by the designers’ work and fabrics, providing creative inspiration.”

Look out for: Their in-house Christmas shopping event on 3 November to enjoy an evening of pampering, shopping and fun, with guests The Tipsy Botanists running a pop-up bar.

5 Fairfield Road, Bath; www.camdencreativeco.com

Bath Artists’ Studios From life-drawing and portraiture classes to sculpture and print-making courses, this charitable organisation, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, offers an exciting program welcoming people at all stages of development.

Founded by painter David Cobley, it has grown to become one of the largest organisations of its kind in the city, incorporating an exhibition space (The Roper Gallery) and a large room where classes are held by some of the region’s most respected artists.

Look out for: The annual Open Studios event – at which members of the public have access to all parts of the building and can meet and talk to artists in their place of work – during the first weekend in October.

The Old Malthouse, Comfortable Place, Upper Bristol Road, Bath; www.bathartistsstudios.co.uk

The Holburne Museum Celebrating its centenary this year, the museum offers workshops which are inspired by their ever-changing exhibitions. Until October, as the Stubbs and the Wild exhibition – which includes animal portraits, grand fantasies and exquisite prints and drawings by renowned, eighteenthcentury wildlife painter George Stubbs (17241806) – is being showcased, all the courses are animal-themed. And from the end of October, to coincide with the Silver Light and Shade showcase, creative, hands-on classes inspired by silver will be on offer.

Look out for: The needle felting course – inspired by Stubbs’ paintings – on 10 September.

Great Pulteney Street, Bath; www.holburne.org

The Edge This new, four-storey centre for arts, based at the University of Bath, is positively brimming with educational, sensorial, emotional and intellectual content to experience and participate in. It’s complete with exhibition spaces, a 220-seat theatre, and dedicated spaces for creative learning including a music rehearsal space and a dance studio. The day and evening classes, open to all adult age groups, include photography, drawing, painting, contemporary and classical dance and chamber music.

Look out for: The striking building itself which was designed by local architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios.

University of Bath, Bath; www.edgearts.org w 26 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Above: Owners Amanda Wood and Annie Wallis at The Camden Creative Company; below: a still-life class at Bath Artists’ Studios

OUR WORKSHOPS AREN’T JUST ABOUT LEARNING NEW SKILLS, THEY ARE UNDERSTATED

LUXURIES

Explore another language and culture Part-time courses for the general public Specialising in teaching languages to a wide spectrum of adult learners, our courses for the general public are open to everyone and there is no formal entry requirement.

Why study with us?

• We offer a wide range of foreign languages from beginner through to advanced levels • Our courses aim to develop all four language skills: speaking, reading, writing and listening • Our tutors are all qualified language teachers who are experienced and committed • We offer a friendly approach to learning • Classes are held at the University of Bath campus or in Bath city centre

The courses

• Our Autumn Term classes start week commencing 3 October 2016 • Language courses generally run for 11 weeks. Students can choose to study for one term only or can enrol for the continuation of the course • We offer daytime, lunchtime and evening classes, which take place once a week • Choose from a range of languages including: Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish

How to enrol

Online Visit our website www.bath.ac.uk/flc/study/gp/courses/ and apply online by following the link from the course you have selected.

By telephone Please call 01225 383991

Foreign Languages Centre

Daytime, lunchtime and evening foreign language classes Foreign Languages Centre www.bath.ac.uk/flc flc@bath.ac.uk 01225 383991

COURSES AND CLASSES

COOK LIKE A PRO Demuths Cookery School

Owned and run by Rachel Demuth, the school, which launched in Bath in 2001 in Rachel’s home kitchen, offers vegetarian, vegan and glutenfree cooking courses. The aim of the courses is to expand the students’ veggie repertoires and develop their skills in the kitchen. “The perception of meat-free meals as brown and bland still persists,” says Rachel. “We challenge this at Demuths Cookery School by focusing on light, colourful, vegetable-based dishes, using delicious additions such as local cheeses, homemade bread and foraged herbs.”

Look out for: The festive Christmas classes which include hands-on demonstrations on how to make a centrepiece for the main meal with all the trimmings, as well as a starter, a dessert and delicious canapés.

PHOTO BY ROB WICKS

6 Terrace Walk, Bath; www.demuths.co.uk

Lucknam Park Cookery School The School offers a unique opportunity for anyone who enjoys cooking to perfect their skills and master new techniques through a variety of innovative courses led by Lucknam Park’s Michelin-starred executive chef Hywel Jones.

Look our for: The Perfect Steak course on 15 September, 6 October and 30 November, where you’ll learn about the different cuts of steak, what to look for before buying, and how to make triplecooked chips.

HEALTH & BEAUTY Funky Monkey Studio

At the studio, the menu of 40 courses – which range from yoga and pole dancing to aerial silks, trapeze choreography and cheerobics – is on offer for corporate training sessions, birthday and hen parties and personal training sessions.

“You’ll improve your body awareness, increase your confidence and meet some awesome people at the classes,” says Funky Monkey’s owner Alice Milner. “You’ll also learn some cool party tricks, like standing on your head!”

Look out for: A new program starting in autumn which will offer Thai Massage sessions in their therapy room.

Colerne, Chippenham, Wiltshire; www.lucknampark.co.uk

18 St Peter’s Terrace, Bath; www.funkymonkeystudio.com

PHOTO BY LIZ BUGG

Bath Academy of Media Makeup

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

The academy, founded by Bath’s Melanie Crump, eschews natural makeup, and instead offers intense artistry courses and taster days in prosthetics, wig-making and airbrushing techniques as well as teaching high fashion, special effects, bridal, period and theatrical makeup styles. Due to start on 5 September is the television and film makeup course hosted by Bath-based Oscar and BAFTA award-winning makeup designer Peter Swords King. After completion, students will then work with the artistic director on his latest movie.

For the 2016 students, this will either be Star Wars or Mary Poppins.

Look out for: Their open day on 21 October where Peter will be hosting a talk on makeup and training.

Christ Church Mews, Julian Road, Bath; www.bammakeup.com

Above: a vegetarian course at Demuths Cookery School; below: a vintage-makeup tutorial at the Bath Academy of Media Makeup

STUDENTS WILL THEN

WORK WITH THE ARTISTIC

DIRECTOR ON HIS LATEST MOVIE. THIS WILL EITHER BE STAR WARS OR MARY POPPINS

COURSES AND CLASSES Clockwise from left: An aerial silks class at Funky Monkey Studio; a life-drawing workshop and an adult tap dancing session at New Oriel Hall

A LITTLE BIT OF EVERYTHING New Oriel Hall

At the hall, you’ll find an unpredictable selection of courses to peak your energy – from Scottish dancing and adult tap, to Pilates and belly dancing. But in addition to the fitness side of things, the eclectic venue has so much more besides; there are new-mum meet-ups, French classes, Mindfulness Mondays, plus monthly book clubs and over-50s luncheons.

Look out for: New classes coming up including adult ballet – a less strenuous alternative to their other high-energy fitness offerings.

Brookleaze Buildings, Larkhall, Bath; www.neworielhall.org.uk

Bath College As well as catering for school-leavers, the college works with professionals who are looking for the next step or a change in their career. Its Love2learn leisure courses are popular with those who are looking to study a new language or learn a new craft – including pottery, papermaking, interior design and jewellery-making. If you’re spoilt for choice, you can try their ‘lucky dip’ in which, places from the courses running on your chosen days will be put into a draw and, when you turn up, you’ll find out which course you’re doing.

Look out for: The upcoming Love2learn Saturday courses on 15 October which include pattern-cutting, mosaic glass, still-life painting and digital photography.

Avon Street, Bath; www.bathcollege.ac.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 29

THE PROPERTY GUARDIANS

DO YOU OWN A SECOND PROPERTY IN BATH? • Do you wish someone could keep an eye on the property for you?

• Would you like management, maintenance and emergency issues to be taken care of?

• Whether it be a rental property, second home, holiday let, or empty investment property Nook will look after it for you.

Contact us today to discuss how we can help you: info@nookofbath.co.uk 07733 102671

www.nookofbath.co.uk

TASTING ROOM SPECIALIST WINE AND SPIRITS Shop and Bar

Voted in the top 50 of the UK's Best Independent Drinks Merchants 6 Green Street, Bath BA1 2JY | 01225 483 070 www.tastingroom.co.uk

Music/theatre/film/more

WATER DIVINING

Lazy strolls and canal-side beauty go hand in hand in summertime, which is why we’re drawn to this Canal at Sydney Gardens painting by Bath artist Catherine Beale. Created in her ‘gravity painted’ cascading watercolours, Catherine’s wetted canvas naturally blends pigments. She introduces minerals such as hematite and amethyst, which granulate and channel, like rivers, across her painted surface – a style uniquely suited to water scenes. And to create an extra level of local belonging, Catherine even experiments by grinding her own ochre pigment from Bath’s limestone.

Catherine has painted portraits internationally for 20 years, exhibiting regionally and nationally, including with the Royal Watercolour Society, the Society of Women Artists and the Royal Institute for Painters in Watercolour.

See Catherine Beale’s Body of Water exhibition, which includes studies of Bath Dance College students, at 44AD from 15 -18 September 2016 More details at www.catherinebeale.com / www.44ad.net

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

20 August – 17 September

There are a lot of fine prints being exhibited at the Rostra Gallery including this striking silk screen print, Black Lung, by Graham Carter; Yorkshire indie rockers The Cribs visit the Komedia on 2 September; A reflective tale of love, fishing and mysterious women comes to The Mission Theatre

Exhibitions U N TI L 2 6 AUG US T

THE SUMMER EXHIBITION: PRINTMAKING This exhibition displays fantastic new work featuring tropical forests, peaceful woodlands and starry night skies from some of the UK’s most exciting printmakers including Sarah Duncan, Graham Carter and Ed Boxall. Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk U N TI L 2 7 AUG US T

SUMMER EXHIBITION This exhibition features a wonderful variety of different approaches, exploring semifigurative styles of invited painters including the latest work by Victoria Gamberoni, Diana Matthews, Nick Tidnam and introducing for the first time

at the gallery, the established painter David Brayne. David Simon Contemporary; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com

by this celebrated and prolific painter of frescoes. Article; www.articlebath.com UNTIL 31 AUG UST

U N TI L 2 7 AU GUST

IRYNA YERMOLOVA Presenting new work from the ever-popular Iryna Yermolova, including elegant figurative studies alongside vibrant still lifes.

Yermolova paints with a bold yet sensitive touch, expressing her subjects through a confident use of line. An intriguing play of grounds complements a striking use of colour often with dramatic lighting. Bath Contemporary; www.bathcontemporary.com U N TI L 3 0 AU GUST

JEAN MELVILLE ROSE A carefully curated collection displaying a delicate palette of pastel hues and classical still-life themes, such as fruit and flowers,

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

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 31 AUG UST

YVONNE COOMBER For a rush of colour and optimism this summer, visit Imagianation Gallery which is showing bold and exciting works by South West artists – from Cornwall to the Cotswolds – including an inspiring and explosive new collection by Yvonne Coomber. Imagianation Gallery; www.imagianation.com

UNTIL 4 S EP T EM B ER

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 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 S EP T EM B ER

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 UNTI L 1 O C TO B E R

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 UNTI L 2 O C TO B E R

STUBBS AND THE WILD A haunting exhibition of animal portraits, grand fantasies, exquisite prints and drawings by renowned British 18th-century wildlife painter George Stubbs. He managed to beautifully encapsulate the uneasy relationship between the domestic and the exotic in polite Georgian society. Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

comfort that this brought to recovering soldiers, as well as insight into how such relationships support treatment and wellbeing. RUH Bath; www.artatruh.org U N TI L 1 3 OCTO BER

12 X 12 SILENT AUCTION To mark the 20th anniversary of Bath Artists’ Studios (BAS), the Studios are collaborating with Art at the Heart and have located the popular Sealed Auction of 12”x 12” works by BAS artists in the RUH’s central corridor. The successful bidders will be announced in October and all proceeds will be donated to the work of both charity organisations. Combe Park, Royal United Hospital; www.artatruh.org U N TI L 3 0 OCTO BER

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 U N TI L 2 7 N O VEMBER

UNTI L 1 3 O C T O B E R

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

PLANNING FOR PEACE While Great Britain was in the middle of the First World War, architect Robert Atkinson designed an extraordinary project to redevelop the city of Bath. His incredible never-built designs, which included an amphitheatre, a huge war memorial and a concert hall, are explored in this

Visit Bath Contemporary to see Getting dressed by the Ukrainian painter Iryna Yermolova, along with a selection of her bold yet sensitive figurative studies

fascinating exhibition. Were they really going to demolish the beautiful Georgian buildings, or was it all a ruse to distract people from the misery of war? Museum of Bath Architecture; www. museumofbatharchitecture.org.uk UNTIL 11 DEC EMBER

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 in the Daily Delights of Georgian Bath exhibition. It 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 1 2 F EB RUARY 2 0 1 7

RED – CULTURE, HISTORY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP Have you ever wondered why red is so prevalent in Asian culture?

This exhibition explores the many different aspects of this bold primary colour in Chinese culture, from the materials used to produce the shade, 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 J ANUARY 2 0 1 8

A HISTORY OF FASHION IN 100 OBJECTS The Fashion Museum presents 100 ‘star’ objects that illustrate w

ARTS

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of Horses and Arlo Guthrie. 2pm, price included with gardens-only admission. American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org

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 from Shakespeare’s time, then fast forward 300 years and see a beautiful 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

22 AUG U S T

EZRA FURMAN Ezra Furman brings his unique brand of distinctly American poprock to the city. Rasping vocals, infectious hooks and big, bold sounds abound in the thrilling work of one of the most exciting acts around. 7.30pm, £12.50.

Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

29 AUG US T - 4 S EPTE MBE R

26 AUG U S T

A BRUSH WITH COLOUR Local artist Rod Craig is launching his first Bath-inspired show, celebrating its unique architecture and landscape. 44AD; www.44ad.net

JEFFREY LEWIS & LOS BOLTS Born and raised in New York City, Jeffrey Lewis is a comic book artist and indie-rock musician, mixing captivating folk spiels with raw-edged garage sounds and the occasional illustrated multi-media piece showcasing his other talents. 7pm, £12. Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

10 SEPTEMBER - 27 NOVEMBER

KENNETH ARMITAGE This major, retrospective exhibition features over 65 sculptures in bronze and plaster of single figures, figure groups, arms, legs and trees, together with paintings and drawings from all phases of Armitage’s career. Victoria Art Gallery; www. victoriagal.org.uk

27 - 29 AU G U S T

Let’s go fly a kite at Dryham Park during the summer holidays; an explosive new collection by Yvonne Coomber is on display at the Imagianation Gallery

15 – 1 8 S E PTE M B E R

CATHERINE BEALE This exhibition by Bath artist Catherine Beale perfectly demonstrates why her distinctive technique of ‘gravity painted’ cascading watercolours creates hypnotic and atmospheric paintings. See more on page 33. 44AD; www.44ad.net

Plays/Shows 24 – 2 7 AUG US T

THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES The Argyle Players present Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic spine-chilling mystery adapted and dramatised by Tim Kelly. On Dartmoor’s wasteland something evil is afoot and only Sherlock Holmes can stop the beast. 7pm, £10; Tovey Hall Theatre; www.bathboxoffice.org.uk

apprentices all aged between 12 and 18, come together with the egg’s professional production team to present an innovative production of the classic Sherlock Holmes story, which includes the entire auditorium being laid with turf to recreate those desolate moors. £8.50/£7.50. the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 3 1 AU GU ST – 17 SEP TEMBER

THE LIBERTINE Dominic Cooper stars in the tale of the true story of John Wilmot, the second Earl of Rochester – a charismatic poet, playwright and rake with an appetite for excess.

Full of flair and wit, The Libertine is a wild romp through 1670s London and offers an incisive critique into an age of hedonism. £15 – £36.50.

Bath Theatre Royal; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

cast for an informal discussion.

7.30pm. The Mission Theatre; £12; www.missiontheatre.co.uk 8 – 10 SEP TEMBER

HUG Hug is a unique examination of the power of the human voice as members of the audience are blindfolded, hugged by a singer to experience the performance through sound, breath and the vibrations of the body. £5. the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Music

THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES The TRB TheatreSchool’s Summer Company, made up of 28 performers and 10 backstage

THE RIVER This is a haunting and mesmerising play by Jez Butterworth about a fisherman and his elusive lover.

After each performance, the audience will be invited to join the

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

2 SEP TE M B ER

THE CRIBS Described as the biggest cult band in the UK, indie-rockers The Cribs continually evolve and thrill, ever advancing whilst stockpiling an enviable arsenal of songs which includes tracks from their outstanding latest album For All My Sisters. 7pm, £17.50.

Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

20 AUG UST

CHANTER Enjoy Celtic reels, jigs and ballads with joyful vocals, performed by the talented Chanter trio. 8.30pm.

The Bear Inn; Bradford on Avon. www.bearinnbradfordonavon.com

6 – 1 0 SE PTE M BER 25 – 2 8 AUG US T

LIVE FROM THE LAWN The National Trust property Tyntesfield hosts 2 Tone legends The Beat, and Radio 2 awardwinning folk artists Show of Hands for two open-air concerts in its beautiful grounds. During the day there’s also a familyfriendly mini music festival, showcasing over 20 upcoming local artists. For full pricing details and more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield

21 AUG UST

SEAN TAYLOR Sean Taylor is one of the most exciting names on the roots and blues scene and has supported John Fogerty, Tom Paxton, Band

4 SEP TE M B ER

SARAH MCQUAID Sarah McQuaid returns for another captivating acoustic performance. The latest album Walking Into White is her most honest and adventurous work to date, with a depth and texture of soundscape that are reflected in her beautifully crafted live shows.

2pm, included with gardens only admission. American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org w

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Family fun U N TI L 2 4 AUG US T

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 and busy this summer holiday.

Activities including toga and tunics dressing-up, Roman soldier shieldmaking, exploring the hot springs, designing puppets, drawing sea monsters, creating collages and candle holder modelling. For more information and pricing details, visit www.bathnes.gov.uk U N TI L 3 1 AUG US T

TERRIFIC TUESDAYS AND WILD WEDNESDAYS Every Tuesday at Prior Park during the summer holidays, there will be pond-dipping, bird watching and other such natureinspired activities to enjoy. Every Wednesday on the Skyline, kids can go wild with den-building and mud pie-making. 10.30am12.30pm, £1. For more information go to www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ prior-park-landscape-garden

The acoustic folk band Show of Hands play Tyntesfield; Sherlock is looking for clues at the egg as to the whereabouts of those supernatural Hounds of the Baskervilles; New Yorker Jeffrey Lewis mixes fast folk and garage sounds at Komedia

U N TI L 3 1 AUG US T

CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES AT DYRHAM PARK The National Trust team is putting on more than 50 activities throughout the school holidays including den building, tractor cleaning, kite flying and dry stone walling and is a great place to tick off their 50 Things to do before you’re 11 3/4 challenge. Free.

Dyrham Park; www.nationaltrust. org.uk/dyrham-park 24 - 2 5 AUG US T

THE RAILWAY CHILDREN AT AVON VALLEY RAILWAY With stunning period costume, traditional music and songs and a real steam engine, this is a unique open-air production of the E Nesbit classic. There’s even a pretheatre, back-in-time supper of traditional roast beef and apple pie served in the station’s static dining carriages. 7pm, £22/£16. Avon Valley Railway; www.avonvalleyrailway.org 27 – 2 9 AUG US T

TRACTOR TED BIG MACHINE WEEKEND An action-packed family day out with over a million pounds

worth of new farm machinery demonstrated and displayed, with tractor and trailer rides around the Bowood Estate, arena displays and a Tractor Ted bouncy castle. No extra charge to normal admission.

Bowood House & Gardens; www. bowood.org 2 8 AU GU ST

MOVIE BY MOONLIGHT Movie by Moonlight returns to Bath’s Royal Victoria Park for a Bank Holiday Sunday outdoor screening of the Tom Cruise classic Top Gun, with all funds raised going towards RUH’s Forever Friends Appeal. Starts approx 8.30pm. Royal Victoria Park; www. foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk

Other U N TI L 3 1 AU GUST

TORCH LIT SUMMER EVENINGS The Roman Baths will be open until 10pm every evening in and August. As darkness falls and by the light of flickering torches, you can explore the ruins of this vast and awe-inspiring Roman building

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

with its steaming magical waters, for an unforgettable and unique experience. For more information and pricing details, visit www. romanbaths.co.uk UNTIL 4 SEP TEMBER

AN AFRICAN SUMMER During the summer of 2016, Longleat will be immersed in African culture, with native dancing, vibrant daily shows, and activities for all ages. There will also be spectacular daily parades through the grounds, in the form of both custom-built, interactive floats and extraordinary costume puppetry. For more information visit www.longleat.co.uk

Fountain, Bath Abbey; www.showofstrength.org.uk 9 - 18 SE P T EM B ER

JANE AUSTEN FESTIVAL The 16th annual Jane Austen Festival kicks off with the spectacular Grand Regency Costumed Promenade with over 500 participants. Other events include theatrical walks, informative talks, Austen-styled workshops, minibus tours all over the city and day trips further afield exploring the legacy of the great author. For more information visit www. janeaustenfestivalbath.co.uk 15 SEP TEM B ER

UNTIL 30 SEP TEMBER

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

PRACTICE Practice gives artists and audiences the opportunity to come together to test new and innovative contemporary performance in development.

Four extracts of work in progress are followed by a lively exchange of views that aims to open up the making process and contribute to the development of the work.

7pm, £5. The Edge Arts; www.edgearts.org

nick cudworth gallery

Dancing Shoes Signed Giclee Print from original oil on canvas – various sizes

SUMMER SHOW 1 July – 31 August

A wide variety of paintings and prints by Nick that represent his interests and inspirations including certain objects, landscape and music 5 London Street (top end of Walcot Street), Bath BA1 5BU tel 01225 445221 / 07968 047639 gallery@nickcudworth.com www.nickcudworth.com

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DATE

COMPETITION

OPPONENT

HOME/AWAY

K.O.

26 Aug

Pre-Season Friendly

Leinster Rugby

Away

19:30

3 Sept

Aviva Premiership

Northampton Saints

Away

15:30

10 Sept

Aviva Premiership

Newcastle Falcons

Home

15:00

17 Sept

Aviva Premiership

Worcester Warriors

Home

15:00

25 Sept

Aviva Premiership

Leicester Tigers

Away

15:00

1 Oct

Aviva Premiership

Gloucester Rugby

Away

15:00

7 Oct

Aviva Premiership

Sale Sharks

Home

19:45

30 Oct

Aviva Premiership

Exeter Chiefs

Away

15:00

18 Nov

Aviva Premiership

Bristol Rugby

Home

19:45

25-27 Nov

Aviva Premiership

Harlequins

Away

TBC

2-4 Dec

Aviva Premiership

Saracens

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TBC

23-25 Dec

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Wasps

Away

TBC

Exeter Chiefs

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TBC

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DATE

COMPETITION

OPPONENT

HOME/AWAY

K.O.

2017 6-8 Jan

Aviva Premiership

Newcastle Falcons

Away

TBC

10-12 Feb

Aviva Premiership

Northampton Saints

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TBC

17-19 Feb

Aviva Premiership

Harlequins

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TBC

24-26 Feb

Aviva Premiership

Bristol Rugby

Away

TBC

3-5 Mar

Aviva Premiership

Wasps

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TBC

24-26 Mar

Aviva Premiership

Saracens

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TBC

8 Apr

Aviva Premiership

Leicester Tigers

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14-16 Apr

Aviva Premiership

Worcester Warriors

Away

TBC

28-30 Apr

Aviva Premiership

Gloucester Rugby

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TBC

5-7 May

Aviva Premiership

Sale Sharks

Away

TBC

19-20 May

Aviva Premiership

TBC

TBC

TBC

27 May

Aviva Premiership

TBC

Twickenham

TBC

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d i n i n g a d v erti s ing feat u re

BATH RACECOURSE – A UNIQUE AND UNFORGETTABLE DINING EXPERIENCE Fine dining with an unrivalled view of the course and beyond

Racing in front of the grandstands

Main Course: Pink Roast Gressingham Duck Breast

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

T

he Royal Crescent Restaurant is one of the highlights of the new Langridge Grandstand at Bath Racecourse. Named to reflect its historic links with the city, this beautiful trackside restaurant offers fine dining within modern surroundings. The restaurant seats 200 guests and, together with its contemporary design, boasts a full panoramic glass façade including a private balcony. The Royal Crescent Restaurant is an ideal place to enjoy not only an exquisite meal but watch all the action from the track.

The historic sporting venue, which started racing on the site in 1811, is looking forward to cementing itself as a first-class racing facility, but also a jewel in the city’s already glittering gastronomic crown. Head

Chef Jonathan Williams was appointed in early 2016 and has previously received an AA rosette as well as being tipped with a recommendation by Michelin. He now leads the team creating the exciting menus in Bath.

Jonathan says: “I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to create exciting and tempting dishes that enhance the experience of watching thrilling racing from our restaurant. I thrive to develop my menus in accordance with the seasons and with local produce wherever possible, ensuring the best flavours. It must be every chef’s dream to walk into a never-been-used kitchen and play with all of the new toys! It really opens the doors for the catering team in Bath to showcase our culinary skills.”

Jonathan and his team created a showcase

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

Starter: Open Lasagne

“I THRIVE TO DEVELOP MY MENUS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SEASONS” menu for the launch of the new Langridge Grandstand to which the racecourse invited 200 guests, including many regular faces from the pages of Bath Life. David James, Chief Executive of Bath Tourism Plus who was a guest on the day, said: “The catering was outstanding, the service superb and the overall experience was a pleasure – all credit to the team at the racecourse. The new stand is a great addition to the Bath portfolio and certainly ‘on-brand’ for our wonderful city. The racecourse will soon be firmly on the map for both corporate events and top quality sporting hospitality.

The Chairman of Bath and North East Somerset District Council, Councillor Alan Hale, who opened the new landmark commented: “With its stunning new facilities, Bath Racecourse has not only cemented its place as one of the UK’s leading racing venues, but is now a leading regional venue for business and social events. This will have a wider positive impact on Bath and North East Somerset and the racecourse is now a major asset for the area.

“The new Langridge Grandstand with its impressive ‘sail’ canopy will become as recognisable as other Bath landmarks and shows a city that is striving forward. Arena Racing Company is to be congratulated on its investment in the area, as should the Bath Racecourse management team, the architects and developers who have succeeded in

producing facilities of the highest standards, and the sponsors and supporters of Bath Racecourse who have all contributed in bringing this redevelopment to fruition.”

Executive director of Bath Racecourse, Jo Hall, added: “This represents a new era for Bath Racecourse and we are looking forward to welcoming all customers, from racegoers to owners and trainers, as well as all of our corporate clients to what is now one of the smartest small racecourses in the country with the best event facilities in the region”

EXAMPLE MENU AT THE ROYAL CRESCENT RESTAURANT To Start Open Lasagne, Wiltshire Smoked Ham Hock, Lemon and Thyme Velouté with Crisp Shallot Rings Main Course Pink Roast Gressingham Duck Breast, Beetroot Eggy Bread, Carrot Ribbons, Seasonal Asparagus with a Red Wine Jus

conferences and events, where the exceptional event team work with you to make your day memorable.

Book online at www.bath-racecourse.co.uk or call the team on 01225 424609.

AVAILABLE PACKAGES

Gold Package – £85.00pp ● A three course choice menu ● Light afternoon tea of cakes and scones ● Hospitality admission ● A race programme ● A reserved table for the duration of the meeting Silver Package – £75.00pp ● A three course choice menu ● Hospitality admission ● A race programme ● A reserved table for the duration of the meeting

To Finish Lemon Drizzle Cake, Pistachio and Strawberry Semi-Freddo, Glazed Fig and Black Pepper Meringue The Royal Crescent restaurant offers inventive dining packages that are complimented with a comprehensive wine list, making Bath Racecourse an exceptional destination to enjoy the racing experience.

The Langride Stand is available to hire on non racedays for weddings, banqueting,

Bath Racecourse Lansdown, Bath BA1 9BU 01225 424609; www.bath-racecourse.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 43

Host Families Needed Hosting international students in your home is a very rewarding experience and provides a valuable extra source of income. The high standards we require are rewarded with good rates of pay, usually ÂŁ35 per night, per student.

The students we represent (typically 13-18 y/o) require good quality, caring, welcoming, full board, host family accommodation for short periods (from 2 to 21 nights).

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BOOKS

A PATCHWORK OF MEMORIES OF AN INCREDIBLE AND OUT-OFCONTROL MOMENT IN HISTORY

LYRICAL LIFE STORIES An eye-opening collection of memoirs from female music performers who have documented their excessive and thrilling lives on tour

By N IC BO T T OM L E Y

T

he women of pop and rock who came of age on stage and radio from the 1970s onwards are now, en masse, having a renaissance in the written form as they publish account after eye-opening account of lives on the road as female music performers.

In a genre defined by tales of almost gruesome levels of excess in the likes of Life

by Keith Richards (Weidenfeld & Nicolson, £8.99) or The Dirt by Tommy Lee and his Motley Crue cohorts (It Books, £12.99), this recent influx gives both a fresh perspective and, in some cases, confirmation that the sisters of song were mixing it up every bit as much as their male counterparts.

In October I’ll get to interview Tracey Thorn at an event being held by Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford on Avon, and it was she who had the first big recent memoir success with the fabulous Bedsit Disco Queen (Virago, £8.99) which tells the story of a career defined by her 18 years as one half

of Everything But the Girl (the other half being her partner in both life and music, Ben Watt). Thorn’s book is frank and evenhanded in openly describing her life-story – the depth of her love for music is everpresent, in contrast to her more mixed views about the rigours of life on stage and in the public eye.

I’m loathe to include Viv Albertine’s Clothes, Clothes, Clothes, Boys, Boys, Boys, Music, Music, Music (Faber, £8.99) in this feature because of what it will do to my word count; but I simply must. Albertine was a guitarist with post-punk all-female band The Slits who toured with The Clash in the late 1970s and released the hugely influential album Cut (complete with its fairly naked cover) in 1979. Her book is laid out in often very brief chapters to make a patchwork of memories of an incredible and out-of-control moment in history.

The swearing, and there’s quite a bit of it, starts on word nine of the introduction, and chapter titles include “Masturbation”

ARTS

(that’s chapter one), “Heroin”, and a few that might not make it through Bath Life’s editorial scrutiny. But these are the musings of a woman who hung out with The Sex Pistols, so would you have it any other way?

The interesting thing, though, is that it’s not all shock-talk. Albertine’s take on her life behind closed doors, including the later challenges of real life from IVF to divorce, is often measured and full of insight, which is why the book picked up three Book of the Year awards on its release in 2014.

If you like the sound of Albertine’s book (see how I keep avoiding repeating the epic title) then you should also look out for Kim Gordon’s Girl in a Band (Faber, £8.99) which recounts an equivalent life on the other side of the Atlantic with the band Sonic Youth.

Although its founding members were all playing in New York bands in the late 1970s, Sonic Youth actually got up and running in 1981 with Kim Gordon at its helm on guitar and vocals for the band’s 30-year history.

Gordon’s book makes for an incredible and very honest look at what it took to be a “girl in a band” in those achingly cool early years and beyond, taking the story right up to the eventual split of her marriage with co-founder Thurston Moore and then of the band itself.

Finally, a suggestion for anyone for whom memoirs of those in the spotlight gives rise to a feeling of inadequacy or underachievement. I’m Not With the Band

by Sylvia Patterson (Sphere, £18.99) is an account of the author’s 30-year career as a music journalist hanging out with music stars who certainly seem to come across as more ridiculous than sublime. This is a book which confirms a lot of preconceptions. That said, Sylvia is perhaps more critical, or at least honest, about herself than she is about her many interviewees. It’s her humiliating or perplexing encounters with everyone from Madonna to Eminem, that make this book such a funny read.

A postscript: this article was written to a soundtrack of The Indigo Girls’ eponymous album, the gutsiest of country rock albums you’ll ever hear.

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 47

T H E C U R TA I N E X C H A N G E For the best dressed windows

IN BATH

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Clockwise from left: Ricky Gervais will make you simultaneously cringe and chuckle in David Brent: Life on the Road; the remake of Swallows and Amazons ticks all the nostalgia boxes; the long-awaited Bridget Jones’s Baby hits our screens soon; see an unconventional family try to overcome modern-day obstacles in Captain Fantastic

FILM

ARTS

AWKWARD, INAPPROPRIATE AND UTTERLY CRINGE-TASTIC AREN’T GENERALLY WORDS I WOULD USE TO MARKET A FILM

SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW From children’s favourites and golden oldies to brand new mockumentaries and superhero flicks, The Little promises a great month ahead

By J E N N I F E R J E N N I NGS W R IGH T

S

o sue us, David Brent is back, and then some. A camera crew catches up with the former star of the fictional series The Office as he now fancies himself as a rockstar on the road. David Brent: Life on the Road is as close as we’re going to get to a film version of the fabulous aforementioned mockumentary. Awkward, inappropriate and utterly cringe-tastic aren’t generally words I would use to market a film, but they’re what makes this one of the must-see films of the summer and we’re very happy to provide that opportunity. Fact.

We all harp on tiresomely about how our childhoods were so fantastic, easy and uncomplicated before technology came and ruined things for future generations, but it is so true. Well, perhaps ‘easy’ isn’t quite the right word; I mean we still only had cardboard boxes to live in and potted meat sandwiches to eat (we were posh) but oh! the adventures we had.

Well, you can now give that generation a little taste of how blooming marvellous it all was by taking them to see the remake of Swallows and Amazons. Arthur Ransome’s classic novel is retold in film for the second time (first in 1974) and tells the tale of four children desperate for a bit of fun and independence. Once given permission by their (frankly quite liberal, even

for back then) mother, they set up camp on a small island in the middle of a lake. Once they discover they’re not alone, a battle for territory begins and survival takes over. Grab yourself lashings of ginger beer and settle down for a heartwarming viewing and enjoy the terrific scenery of the Lake District.

Other children’s all-time faves coming up at The Little include The Jungle Book (the 1968 and 2016 versions), Cinderella, Pinocchio, The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Willy Wonka, Matilda and Fantastic Mr. Fox. Wow! We’re really spoiling you.

Julieta, is director Pedro Almodovar’s 20th film and is, as one reviewer commented, ‘a guilt-soaked pleasure’ and his best since Volver. Julieta is the middle-aged mother of estranged daughter Antia who she hasn’t seen for 12 years. When Julieta hears of Antia living happily in another country, she promptly abandons her own future plans. And so the film unfolds as a series of flashbacks which explore Julieta’s emotional entanglements. It’s a complex film and far more worthy than the space I can allot it, so you’d better just see it.

Another veteran director on top form, Woody Allen excels himself with Café Society.

Set in the 1930s it follows Bronx-born Bobby Dorfman (Jesse Eisenberg) to Hollywood, where he falls in love disastrously with his

uncle’s secretary. On his return to New York, he gets caught up in his brother’s vibrant and dangerous gangster-riddled world of high society nightclub life. Underhand antics in Tinseltown, paralled with the more overt mafia criminal activity in NY, make this a fascinating insight to the glamour and intensity of the era.

Captain Fantastic is not your standard superhero flick, but the title World’s Greatest Dad had already been taken in 2009. A little clue there into what this film is about. Ben (Viggo Mortensen), Leslie and their six children live a wildly unconventional life off the grid somewhere in the primordial Washington forest. When Leslie dies suddenly, the rest of the family are forced to reintegrate into society with all its modern-day obstacles and challenges as Ben maintains his antiestablishment stance. It’s a super quirky watch, so much more than your average dysfunctional family fare, and doesn’t slip into over-sentimentality.

With the tagline ‘The band you know, the story you don’t’ The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years is the latest project by director Ron Howard. With little explanation needed from me, the documentary follows the band’s touring career between 1962-1966.

Made with the help of Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney, the film takes in scenes from Liverpool’s Cavern Club to San Francisco’s Candlestick Park. Sure to be smashing.

Finally, Bridget Jones is single again, over 40 and preggers. The long-awaited Bridget Jones’s Baby hits our screens in September, and sees Renée Zellweger resurrecting her titular role as the chunky, hapless, albeit lovable, atypical heroine in which we all see images of ourselves in one form or another. Sadly, no Hugh Grant this time, but another love interest in the form of Patrick Dempsey will do nicely ta very much. Oh and of course Colin Firth as Darcy. Ding dong.

The Little Theatre, 1-2 St Michael’s Place 01225 466822; www.picturehouses.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 49

C R E AT I V E SPECIAL ‘Colonnade’ at Bath’s One Two Five Gallery

MEET THE Join us for a celebration of the inspiring and wide-ranging businesses and people that make Bath such a powerhouse of creativity

By J E N N Y OL DA K E R

PHOTO BY JASON INGRAM

CREATIVES

C R E AT I V E SPECIAL

BATH’S

CORE OF CREATIVITY IS VITAL TO THE INTEGRITY

OF THE COMMUNITY WHO LIVE HERE

An original Heidelberg press at Meticulolus Ink

S

ince the very birth of the city Bath has been a magnet for visionaries and creators, and it seems that today very little has changed. The city continues to represent a hub of innovation, spurred on by a talented collection of businesses and individuals, united by their forward-thinking, creative approaches, and supported by the Creative Bath network (see page 56). From graphic designers to PR firms, architects to art galleries, creativity takes myriad forms, as demonstrated by this diverse selection – just a handful of the companies that help give Bath its creative oomph…

ONE TWO FIVE GALLERY ART GALLERY

Tell us about your business: One Two Five Gallery is the showcase for my painted clothing, paintings and glass work, for ceramics by Gary Wood, and for contemporary jewellery made by local artists.

Why is creativity is so vital to Bath? Bath is a small city, which could be swamped by tourism – and its core of creativity is vital to the integrity of the community. A vibrant, creative community is also what allows unusual small businesses to add to the mix of the retail and artistic offering which visitors discover and appreciate.

Did you know? Almost everything we sell is

a one-off, made in Bath, by hand – even the 3D printed jewellery begins life as a drawing.

Carole Waller, director and artist One Two Five Gallery, 4 Abbey Green; www.onetwofivegallery.co.uk

METICULOUS INK

FINE PRINTING AND STATIONERY

Tell us about your business: We’re a bespoke print studio, specialising in letterpress and foil printing. Our shop sells our own-brand stationery and paper-related goodies alongside our bespoke offering.

What makes you a creative company?

We design own-brand and custom stationery projects, create elaborate invitations, produce letterpress and foil printing, work in collaboration with other creative companies, and teach calligraphy workshops.

What does your business add to the creative make-up of Bath? Bath is well known for its independent shops, and each independent business owner contributes greatly to the city’s creativity. We are proud to be one of these unique businesses – it’s wonderful to feel a part of that creative network.

Did you know? As well as our shop, we have our print studio in store where customers can see how the print process works.

Athena Cauley-Yu, founder Meticulous Ink, 134 Walcot Street, Bath; www.meticulousink.com w

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 51

C R E AT I V E SPECIAL GLOVE FACTORY STUDIOS WORKSPACE HUB

Tell us about your business: In the village of Holt, 10 minutes from Bath, Glove Factory Studios is an inspiring workspace for creative, digital and tech businesses. With dedicated fibre optic broadband, meeting rooms and The Field Kitchen café on-site, it is an ideal environment for any creative-led business.

What kinds of creative companies are based here? We host to creative companies, including ojo solutions – a technology innovation and app development company – and Bowline – a communications and employee engagement agency, specialising in engaging teams and inspiring customers. Run by Caroline and Nelson Santos, Mette is a multi-disciplinary creative studio, while Jooka specialises in promotional videos for web and has worked with Bath BID, SouthGate Bath and Team Bath.

Philippa Kindon, General Manager Glove Factory Studios, Brook Lane, Holt; www.glovefactorystudios.com

THAT MEDIA THING

CONTENT CREATION, MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA SERVICES AGENCY

Tell us about your business: We create content designed to connect with brands’ customers, and manage its distribution through social media.

Why do you think Bath fosters so much creativity? I’ve never experienced such a dense and varied environment of culture and arts, colour and sounds, hearts and minds than in Bath. It inspires people to want to live and work within their community with greater fervour and passion than anywhere else I’ve lived.

Ian Robson, managing director That Media Thing Ltd, The Guild, High Street; www.thatmediathing.com Hand-painting an aspect of Mette’s Maker Carousel installation

Indoor growing and wellbeing concepts at Mette’s Farm Kitchen & Living Restaurant installation

FRESHLY GROUND PR LTD PR AND MARKETING AGENCY

Tell us about your business: We’re a PR and marketing agency specialising in food and drink, lifestyle and all things artisan.

What makes you a creative company? There are so many talented individuals in Bath, doing truly inspiring things. Naturally, they don’t always know how to get in front of the people that would love to hear about them – that’s where we come in. Our creative input involves coming up with innovative ideas to get them the attention they deserve.

Amy Brice, director Freshly Ground PR, The Guild, High Street; www.freshlygroundpr.co.uk

DIGIPRINT

DIGITAL DESIGN, PRINT AND SIGNAGE

Tell us about your business: We provide digital printing services, design and signage for businesses in Bath, Chippenham and Trowbridge.

A website design, construction and delivery service is also being implemented.

Did you know? Digiprint has developed ‘www. gogreenprinting.co.uk’, utilising sustainable materials well as using environmentally friendly vegetable-based inks. We have also installed LED lighting, which uses 50 per cent less energy than standard lighting.

Felix Walsh, co-owner Digiprint, 19 Lower Borough Walls, Southgate; www.digiprintgroup.com w 52 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

I’VE NEVER EXPERIENCED SUCH A

DENSE

ENVIRONMENT OF

CULTURE AND ARTS, COLOUR AND SOUNDS, HEARTS AND MINDS

THAN IN BATH

C R E AT I V E SPECIAL DSGN ONE

WEB DESIGN AGENCY

Tell us about your business: Dsgn One is a web design company that offers affordable web design packages to small and medium-sized businesses in Bath and the surrounding areas.

Did you know? We built a website for local charity BEMSCA (Bath Ethnic Minority Senior Citizens Association) free of charge – we also offer this service to some other charities that struggle to get funds to build a website.

Paul O’Gorman, owner Dsgn One, The Guild, High Street; www.dsgnone.com

SOCKEYE PR

COMMUNICATIONS AGENCY

From top to bottom: architects and designers at DKA; a printed design at One Two Five Gallery

CREATIVE BUSINESSES FUEL INNOVATION AND INVENTIONS AND

CREATE NEW IDEAS

DKA

ARCHITECTS

Tell us about your business: We have a team of talented architects and designers working on projects across the south and south west.

What makes you a creative company? We use design to solve problems – creating more space, finding greater efficiencies, merging departments, generating flexibility and improving the quality of spaces. When we take a brief, the creative process begins – it’s a balance of logic and creative spark.

How does your business fit into Bath’s creative landscape? Architecturally, culturally and historically, Bath offers lots of creative inspiration. We work with local businesses for branding, PR, printing, creative thinking or general advice. Coupled with networking groups like Creative Bath, we like to immerse ourselves in this supportive environment.

Alex Bell, associate director

Tell us about your business: Sockeye PR supports brands to fulfil their potential and better achieve their business goals through integrated PR, social media and content marketing. Our creativity is essentially in storytelling and reaching audiences in new and compelling ways.

Why do you think Bath is such a creative city? Our city has always attracted and developed creative talent, whether it’s the artisans of Walcot Street, or our growing digital sector. We also have an amazing coffee shop culture in Bath. Perhaps the two are related…

Jessica Gillingham, director Sockeye PR, Bath; www.sockeyepr.co.uk

w

DKA, The Malt House, 17-20 Sydney Buildings; www.dka.co.uk

READY

CREATIVE CAMPAIGN AGENCY

Tell us about your business: We help marketers bring their campaigns to life through exciting concepts, engaging designs, innovative technologies and precise audience targeting.

Why is creativity so vital to Bath? I don’t just think creativity is vital to Bath, I think it’s incredibly important to the entire UK – and beyond. Creative businesses fuel innovation and inventions, provoke fresh thinking and create new ideas, which is vital to driving the overall economy forward.

Shane Carnell-Xu, co-founder and director Ready, The Tramshed, Beehive Yard, Walcot Street; www.weareready.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 55

C R E AT I V E SPECIAL TDOUGLAS DESIGN DIGITAL DESIGNER

Tell us about your business: We offer design solutions from graphic design and illustration to motion graphics and animation, specialising in 2D animation. I chose to set up in Bath as it’s a creative hub with strong connections to Bristol and London – plus it’s just so attractive here, it’s hard to leave!

Why is creativity so vital to Bath?

Bath is built on creativity. It’s only right that the city continues to flourish in the creative sector and that it moves forward in the digital creative sector for generations to come.

Tom Douglas, motion / illustration / graphic designer TDouglas Design, Bath; www.tdouglasdesign.uk

DESIGN FOR DIGITAL LTD WEB DESIGN AGENCY

Tell us about your business: It’s a web design agency, focusing on the SME market.

What do you think your business adds to Bath’s creative reputation? Website technology is changing every day and keeping up with the best practices can be tricky for smaller businesses. We help by offering a ‘website surgery’, to help companies with their trickiest website problems.

Lawrence Tilley, director

CREATIVE BATH Bath is a city built on creativity. From the clever Georgians creating our city and establishing its reputation through to the burgeoning creative business of today, the sector is a vital part of Bath life.

That’s why we’ve developed Creative Bath – and that’s why we’re launching the Creative Bath Awards.

So what is Creative Bath? It’s the free-to-join network for Bath’s creatives whether professional practitioners or aspirant students. It spans all creative sectors, from architects to website builders, including tech and culture.

We bring the sector together via events (see below) backed by a highly active website and social media. We give free job ads to local creative companies and act as a massive echo chamber for the city’s creatives.

We’re supported by strategic partnerships with Bath Spa Uni and Bath Studio School – critical to help nurture the talent of tomorrow and to link students with professionals.

We’re backed by Anchor Partners such as Storm Consultancy, Mr B & Friends, SearchStar, CitrusHR, Anthem Publishing and Bath Life’s publisher, MediaClash.

Next summer we’ll run the Creative Bath Awards, to celebrate the stunning

creativity through the city. As a whole, the creative community creates more value locally than retail and tourism combined according to independent research.

If you’re a professional creative, a curious student or Bath company with goods and services for the creatives, please get in touch.

Greg Ingham, Chair, Creative Bath

Design for Digital, The Guild, High Street; www.designfordigital.com

FREESTYLE DESIGNS SIGN MAKERS

Tell us about your business: We specialise in bespoke projects, working from concept through to completion for the design, manufacture and installation of all types of signage. Our creative side comes into play when tasked with coming up with the best way to display our customers’ brands or messages and help them to convey this to their audience.

What does your business add to the creative make-up of Bath? We pride ourselves on producing signage that’s not just ‘made’ but ‘designed’. We’re constantly thinking of ways to make our signs blend with and complement their sites.

Jayson Godridge, director Freestyle Designs Ltd, Unit 2, Stable Yard Industrial Estate; www.freestyledesigns.co.uk

GEOMETRY PR LTD

COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING AGENCY Tell us about your business: It’s a communications and marketing agency working with business across the UK, but with a particular emphasis on working with Bath businesses.

What makes yours a creative company?

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

Our work is all about finding new ways to communicate on behalf of our clients. Whether we’re coming up with a news hook for a story, a strapline for a marketing campaign, or a new technique to reach a niche audience, it relies on creative thinking.

Did you know? The agency is credited with protecting the Cornish pasty. Its lobbying campaign ensured the pasty can only be named and marketed as being Cornish if it’s made to a traditional recipe and in the geographical area of Cornwall. Geometry’s publicity created a huge impact attracting global media attention for the humble pasty.

Linda Todd, director Geometry PR Ltd, Victoria House, 5 Lower Borough Walls; www.geometrypr.co.uk

EVENTS (ALL DETAILS ON SITE)

Sept 6th: Business Breakfast – effect of Brexit on creative sector Sept 19th: Adblockapocalypse – challenges of adblockers October: Creative Bath Inspires… With Ken Loach November: Speed networking at Bath Spa Uni and Bath Studio School June 2017: Creative Bath Awards www.creativebath.org, @CreativeBath, info@creativebath.org

IT’S ONLY RIGHT THAT THE CITY CONTINUES TO

FLOURISH IN THE CREATIVE SECTOR

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

Henry’s

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

One of Bath’s newest indie restaurants is surprising its diners with French-inspired cuisine prepared with exacting technique by a gifted chef who’s worked with some of the world’s top culinary talents

C

By L I SA E VA NS

THE

hasing his fascination for fine food across the world, classically trained chef Henry Scott has been building up to opening his own restaurant for a decade, so we were pleased to see the doors of his eponymous independent venture open in Bath this summer.

He began his career as a chef at The Bath Priory before jetting off to work in top, award-winning Australian, French and Belgian restaurants under some of the generation’s foremost chefs.

He also spent three years at the Michelin-starred Mayfair restaurant Hibiscus before becoming sous chef at the Allium within Bath’s Abbey Hotel. All that experience in the restaurant and hotel trade set him in good stead to reach his long-awaited ambition of starting his own restaurant and, this summer, he took over the establishment that was previously the well-known French restaurant Casanis on Bath’s trendy Saville Row. Welcoming, warm and intimate, the restaurant – which the chef bought from the previous husband and wife owners, Jill and Laurent Couvreur, when they decided to retire – is nestled on the quiet, cobbled side street near the Assembly Rooms, an ideal, traffic-free spot.

It looks a lot different from the low-lit, white table-clothed bistro it once was, and has been given a contemporary, trendy makeover, transforming it into a paredback, simplistic space with naked tables, purposely scuffed gnarly wood floors and clean lines.

“I’m lucky that natural light floods into the restaurant as we’re at street level, so I wanted to brighten up the décor to match,” says Henry, who lives above the restaurant. “Although whites and greys sound very ordinary on paper, the colour scheme acts as a blank canvas so that the food, which we get really creative and experimental with, can speak for itself.”

One aspect that does still remain from the Casanis days, though, is a hint of French – an influence that permeates Henry’s dishes along with a fusion of modern-European cuisine styles.

“I’ve worked with French head chefs who’ve had a huge impact on me,” he says. “That’s the dominant influence in my cooking, but at the same time, I wouldn’t class my food as French. I don’t want to limit myself to one style. I want to bring a unique flavour to Bath; something really independent, fresh and honest.”

COLOUR SCHEME ACTS AS A BLANK

CANVAS SO THAT THE FOOD CAN SPEAK FOR

ITSELF

The concise menu, which can be enjoyed à la carte or as a tasting experience, offers three choices for each course and there’s also a separate, comprehensive vegan menu which, Henry says, celebrates sustainable plant-based meals while never sacrificing taste or experience.

From the tempting array of starters on the menus, which include dishes such as crispy squid with Japanese mooli, coriander stem and yuzu; and marinated chicken pâté with a sweet pine nut crust and toasted brioche, I choose the roasted beetroot salad, and it’s absolutely sensational. It’s mingled with goats’ cheese curd and mustard leaves and stands out against the stark off-white décor, just as Henry envisioned. It’s also on the vegan menu with white beans – blended with white truffle, garlic and lemon to a hummus texture – instead of cheese. If this explosion of flavour had been an option as a main course, I would have ordered it all over again, but, alas, no such luck.

The joys came early and they set the scene for the main event: sizeable cannelloni stuffed with celeriac atop garden lentils and almonds – a sweet-savoury dish which illustrates a hardy understanding of flavour combinations and textural juxtapositions. Inside is a surprise mushroom duxelle – button mushrooms pan-fried with reduced madeira until golden, then blended into a paste and seasoned with lemon – which acts as a binder for the celeriac and gives the dish an extra, unexpected dimension.

Between choices such as slow-cooked beef shin with loaded new potato and candy onion purée, and duck breast dusted in citrus spice, my dining partner opts for the plumpest piece of baked cod – which is crisp-skinned, but sensitively cooked, the pearly flakes dropping away at the nudge of a fork. It’s pressed into a creamy, rich bed of wild herb risotto, served with a little jug of Scottish langoustine broth, and is decorated with a brittle wafer of cod skin which has been blanched, dehydrated then fried into a sort of fish quaver.

All the dishes are brought to our table by Henry himself, a lovely personal touch, and the wine list, which features seven reds and seven whites from across the world, is expertly paired to the menu.

To finish, my light and refreshing lemon tart is visually appealing – the caramelised topping appearing and tasting much like a blow-torched crème brûlée’s – and his strawberry frangipane is sprinkled with roasted almonds and accompanied by fresh strawberries and ice cream. Perfect treats to round off a sumptuous meal.

Every aspect of the high-calibre restaurant is well thoughtthrough – from its atmospheric small terrace at the back, to the stylish bathrooms which are accessorised with Neal’s Yard Remedies products – and the chef’s imaginative, modern creations make Henry’s a wonderfully sparkling gem Bath’s gastronomic crown.

DINING DETAILS Henry’s, 4 Saville Row, Bath, BA1 2QP, 01225 780055; www.henrysrestaurantbath.com Prices Starters: £6 – £8; mains £15 – £20; dessert £6 – £7 Vegetarian choice Full vegan menu available Wine list A concise list of world wines chosen from Great Western Wine, Bath Service/atmosphere Supremely knowledgeable while also being friendly and humble

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 59

F O O D & D R I N K A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

DINING in BATH Bath Life’s selection of the best places to eat out in Bath and the surrounding area

BRITISH

FRENCH

PIZZA

ALLIUM BATH, THE ABBEY HOTEL 1 N Parade, Bath; 01225 809469; www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk/allium Stylish fine art themed modern British cuisine within the elegant Abbey Hotel

LE BISTRO PIERRE Princes Buildings, 4 George St, Bath; 01225 321840; www.lebistrotpierre.co.uk/bath Regional French dishes

DOUGH The Corridor, Bath; 01225 443686 World class pizza from Massimo Nucaro

THE BATH PRIORY Weston Rd, Bath; 01225 331922; www.thebathpriory.co.uk Michelin starred fine dining overlooking hotels award-winning gardens CLAYTONS KITCHEN, THE PORTER 15a George St, Bath; 01225 585100; www.theporter.co.uk Stylish modern British cooking from Rob Clayton THE DOWER HOUSE, ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL 16 Royal Crescent, Bath; 01225 823333; www.royalcrescent.co.uk/dining AA 3 rosette fine dining at one of Bath’s most iconic locations JOHANN LAFER, THE GAINSBOROUGH Beau St, Bath; 01225 358888; www. thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk Menus inspired by Johann Lafer’s “Dining Without Borders” philosophy THE OLIVE TREE RESTAURANT, THE QUEENSBERRY HOTEL Russell St, Bath; 01225 447928; www.thequeensberry.co.uk One of Bath’s longest established restaurants, overseen by Chris Cleghorn with 3 AA rosettes

CAFÉS & COFFEE SHOPS HUNTER AND SONS Milsom Place, Milsom St, Bath; 07821 975033; www.hunter-sons.co.uk Speciality coffee, craft beer and kitchen

GASTROPUBS THE RICHMOND ARMS 7 Richmond Place, Bath; 01225 316725; www.therichmondarmsbath.com Hearty pub grub with menu changing on a daily basis

INDIAN THE EASTERN EYE 8a Quiet St, Bath; 01225 422323; www.easterneye.com Classic traditional Bengali cuisine in grand Georgian interior space THE MINT ROOM Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 446656; www.themintroom.co.uk Creative and classic Indian cuisine in a contemporary setting RAJPOOT 4 Argyle St, Bath; 01225 466833; www.rajpoot.com Award-winning Indian fine dining at Bath institution

ITALIAN PONTE VECCHIO Spring Gardens Rd, Bath; 01225 466833; www.pontevecchiobath.com Fantastic central location next to Pulteney Bridge

THE OVEN 21 Westgate St, Bath; 01225 311181; www.theovenpizzeria.co.uk Neapolitan artisan pizza using local and Italian imported produce REAL ITALIAN PIZZA CO 16 York St, Bath; 01225 330121; www.realitalianpizza.co.uk Family owned pizzeria. Wood fired pizza with fresh authentic ingredients

STEAK HOUSES THE COWSHED 5, Bladud Buildings, The Paragon; 01225 433633; www. cowshedrestaurants.com/bath Steaks sourced from specialist butcher Ruby and White along with a range of vegetarian and fish dishes THE HERD 12a Argyle St, Bath; 01225 316583; www.theherdrestaurant.co.uk Locally sourced meat of the finest provenance alongside a simple, seasonal menu

TAPAS OLÉ TAPAS 1 John Street, Bath; 01225 466440; www.oletapas.co.uk Charming, authentic Spanish tapas – one of Bath’s best kept secrets

THAI

MARTINI RESTAURANT 8-9 George St, Bath; 01225 460818; www.martinirestaurant.co.uk Traditional Italian cooking in cosy atmospheric restaurant

THAI BY THE WEIR 16 Argyle St, Bath; 01225 444834; www.thaibytheweir.co.uk Restaurant overlooking the weir, serving a classic Thai menu

YAMMO 66 Walcot St, Bath; 01225 330236; www.yammo.co.uk Neapolitan street food, pizzas, burgers, tapas and cocktails

KOH THAI TAPAS 36 Broad St, Bath; 01225 311232; www.koh-thai.co.uk Award winning small Thai tapas plates and cocktails

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

BRITISH THE FIELD KITCHEN 1 Brook Ln, Holt BA14 6RL; 01225 784081; www. glovefactorystudios.com/kitchen Serving fresh seasonal dishes within the Glove Factory Studios

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS WIDBROOK GRANGE HOTEL Trowbridge Rd, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1UH; 01225 864750; www.widbrookgrange.co.uk Modern farmhouse cuisine, locally sourced and freshly prepared

GASTROPUBS BIDDESTONE ARMS Biddestone, Wilts SN14 7DG; 01249 714377; www.biddestonearms.co.uk Whitewashed country pub with upmarket, robust British fare in a beautiful Cotswold stone village BUNCH OF GRAPES 14 Silver St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1JY; 01225 938088; www.thebunchofgrapes.com Bar and restaurant inspired by the village bistros of South West France THE PEAR TREE INN Top Ln, Whitely, Wilts SN12 8QX; 01225 704966; www.peartreewhitley.co.uk An elegant revamped country inn with an acclaimed restaurant and contemporary rustic-chic bedrooms

THAI THAI BARN 9-10 St Margaret's St, Bradford-onAvon BA15 1DA; 01225 866443; www.thaibarn.co.uk Open for 18 years specialising in royal Thai cuisine

Early Bird Offers Available Monday to Saturday 12-2.30pm and 6-7.30pm One course £6.99 Two course £9.99 Three course £12.99 Offering a wide selection for you to choose from

THE GEORGE & DRAGON 223 London Road East, Batheaston, Bath BA1 7NB Book your table today 01225 858007 www.georgeanddragonbath.co.uk

RICHMOND ARMS A country pub in the city

Fine coffee • Homemade cakes • Sharing platters Small plates • Fresh & locally sourced menu Hand picked wines • Local cask ales

01225 316725 7 RICHMOND TERRACE, BATH BA1 5PZ

WWW.THERICHMONDARMSBATH.COM

WINNER WATERING HOLE

2 Saville Row, Bath BA1 2QP info@commonroombath.co.uk 01225 425550

COMMONROOMBATH.CO.UK

Top Lane, Whitley, Wiltshire SN12 8QX 01225 704966 T f @peartreewhitley

www.peartreewhitley.co.uk

A cut above...

“This is the best Thai food I have ever eaten. Highly recommended.”

Try our Tour of India tasting menu Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EB Tel: 01225 446656 12-16 Clifton Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1AF Tel: 01173 291300 Email: info@themintroom.co.uk www.themintroom.co.uk

fa

Top quality, traditional fresh food Freshly picked vegetables and aromatic herbs A combination flavours T: 01225 866443 E: mail@thaibarn.co.uk 9-10 St Margaret’s Street, Bradford on Avon BA15 1DA

www.thaibarn.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

STRUCTURED WITH ZIPPY LEMON ACIDITY AND SUBTLE HINTS OF NETTLES AND LIME

BEN FRANKS Wine exper t

LAST OF THE SUMMER WINE We’re now deep into the summer season and Ben Franks has been exploring what wines are perfect for keeping you in the holiday spirit

W

ake up and smell the coffee, it’s time for your summer holiday (or maybe yours has already been and gone). In fact, for coffee lovers out there, what could be a better way to put your feet up than with a bottle of South African Fram Pinotage?

A bottle of Fram gives off aromas that are indistinguishable from roasted coffee beans and it’s bursting with blackberry and mulberry fruit; fabulous alongside your favourite cheese after your last day in the office. The 2013 is a weighty £25 from Great Western Wine but hey, you’re on holiday, treat yourself!

For holidaymakers who are staying in the

UK for their break this summer, you must try a bottle of the quintessentially English white wine Leonora’s from Oatley Vineyard in south Somerset (£13.50, Novel Wines).

It’s 100 per cent Kernling, an offspring of Riesling, giving you a crisp, elegant white that’s perfect for picnics.

An equally refreshing white wine for anyone venturing as far as Asia is the simply sublime Grace Koshu Hishiyama Private Reserve (£19.84, Strictly Wine). From Japan, the Grace Winery is one of the country’s pioneers of the neutral, yet mouth-watering, Koshu grape variety. The winery recently picked up two Best in Show Platinum titles at the Decanter World Wine Awards. Their top level Private Reserve is a show of pure quality; structured with zippy lemon acidity and subtle hints of nettles and lime.

Ben Franks with Jane Awty, owner of Oatley vineyards

Morrisons’ Signature Pinot Gris (on offer at £8.25) from the French region of Alsace is another deliciously crisp white wine for anyone looking to get ready for a holiday to Northern Europe. When you drink Pinot Gris, especially one as good as this, you can picture sitting amongst the rolling hills on the banks of the River Rhine. The wine’s fresh, juicy limes and mineral complexity make it a crowd-pleaser.

Of course, an easy match is a gorgeous Provence rosé for any readers lucky enough to be heading to Southern France this year.

Domaine Lafran-Veyrolles Bandol Provence rosé (£10.99, Waitrose Cellar) is a perfect example. It’s salmon-pink with apricot and spice on the nose, followed by red berries, apricots and a crunchy acidity in the mouth.

It’s moreish, excellent with cheese, and best enjoyed with friends. What more could you ask for?

Finally, but by all means not least, is the amazing Chancet Rocks Pinot Noir from New Zealand’s most famous region, Marlborough. I couldn’t not mention this wine after trying it. It’s exclusive to Averys of Bristol (£16.99) and is a gorgeous fruit salad of intense plum, cherry and raspberry.

Creamy from oak and silky in the mouth, it’s a beautiful wine. So if anyone’s looking to start their holiday with a smile, buy yourself a bottle of Chancet Rocks Pinot Noir. You won’t regret it.

Find more recommendations online at www.benfrankswine.com or follow Ben on Twitter @BenFranksWine

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 65

Award winning

Traditional English Pub Food Our menu features an exquisite choice of classic dishes, supplemented by fabulous daily lunchtime specials all priced at £9.95, providing great value eating.

Finest cask ales • Superb classic wines • Mouthwatering menu

biddestone arms Fine Cuisine & Country Pub

The Green, Biddestone, Nr Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 7DG Tel: 01249 714377 www.biddestonearms.co.uk

Shop • Cafe • Plants Shop... for all of your fresh fruit, vegetables, bread, plants and more Cafe... Sit back, relax and enjoy the atmosphere with a fine cup of coffee or an afternoon tea. We also serve breakfast and light bites for those feeling a little peckish!

free wi-fi

Plants... We sell beautiful seasonal plants and flowers which can be found in and around the Farm Shop.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Independent Contemporary Restaurant Bath

Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm 10am - 4pm Sundays and Bank Holidays

Weekesley Ln, Timsbury, Bath, BA2, UK 01761 470089 info@meadgatefarmshop.co.uk www.meadgatefarmshop.co.uk

4 Saville Row | Bath | BA1 2QP 01225 780055 | hello@henrysrestaurantbath.com

www.henrysrestaurantbath.com

FOOD & DRINK 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

The Gourmet Street Kitchen will be popping up in Queen Square

PHOTO BY FAYDIT PHOTOGRAPHY

FINE WINING Great Western Wine, which has over 30 years’ experience in selling handcrafted wines, have won South West Wine Merchant of the Year for the third year running at the International Wine Challenge Awards.

The competition, which is considered one of the largest and most influential wine events in the world, judged Great Western Wine to have ‘an extremely good wine list’ and remarked on the company’s ‘excellent customer experience.’

“I would have enjoyed just the wines, the occasion and the opportunity to mix with the wine industry’s top people,” says Edward Mercer, the company’s private client sales and marketing manager, who picked up the award on 7 July at the Hilton Park Lane, London. “But taking home one of the big awards topped the lot. Nothing beats being recognised by your customers and industry peers for a job well done, and we can’t wait to do more amazing things in the coming year.”

For more: www.greatwesternwine.co.uk

SQUARE MEALS The team behind Bath Street Food who triumphed at last year’s Christmas Market, are returning to the city and taking over Queen Square for The Great Artisan Feast Festival.

The all-day feasting celebration on 17 September, will be jam-packed with everything foodie from local artisan producers and

street food stalls to live entertainment and cookery demonstrations.

“Visitors will be able to choose from stands including Very Veggie, Meaty Mouthfuls, Tantalising Tipples, Relax & Natter, Sweet Sensations, Delicious Deli and World Flavours,” says Karen Skerratt, managing director

of the Hubb Group who are organising the event.

“There’s also Granny Garbutt’s Gin Palace, which will be serving a wide selection of specialist gins, whiskys from the whisky wagon and their infused, botanical drinks.”

For more: www.bathstreetfood.com

Edward and the team are rewarded for their winning wines

BACKERS FOR BAKERS

The Thoughtful Bread Company need a little dough

The Thoughtful Bread Company, the award-winning eco-artisan bakery based in Bath, is continuing to rise and grow thanks to an unconventional and innovative means of raising finance.

Using the crowdfunding concept, the company is offering businesses the opportunity to back them in return for rewards. “This can range from mince pies for the office or full corporate team-building days with a fantastic meal and bread-baking activities in our bakery school, through to corporate event catering or even a whole Christmas meal for their staff or clients,” explains owner Duncan Glendinning, The company is not new to crowdfunding and in 2013 they managed to raise £55,000 in just nine days, which helped finance the move into their current Barton-Street premises.

For more: www.thethoughtfulbreadcompany.com

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

SWIMMING POOLS • SPAS • HOT TUBS

Independent company based in Wiltshire and covering the surrounding areas. Rock Pools & Spas provide comprehensive servicing, maintenance of Spas and Swimming Pools.

With over 16 years of experience they undertake tasks and complete them to the highest of standards.

Impeccable service, safety and efficiency from experts contact us for a free initial consultation or estimate.

SERVICING • MAINTENANCE • INSTALLATIONS 0333 600 9001 www.rockpoolsandspas.co.uk

SMARTY DRY CLEANING

Free collection delivery service Subject to terms and conditions

Smarty, Bath 11 River Street Place, Julian Road, Bath, BA1 2RS

Smarty, Bradford on Avon Elms Cross Shopping Centre (next door to Sainsbury’s), BA15 2AZ

01225 444666

01225 862964

www.smartydrycleaning.co.uk

www.smartyofbradford.co.uk

Demo rides available

0% finance*

ELECTRIC BIKE SPECIALISTS SALES - SERVICE - HIRE

Bike sale now on!

Whichever your riding style, Take Charge Bikes have the electric bike to suit you.

Cyclescheme store partner 1 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EH 01225 789568 info@takechargebikes.co.uk www.takechargebikes.co.uk * Finance on full price bikes only

2

3

4

1

6

5

1. THROW IN THE TOWEL

2. COCKTAIL HOUR

3. SHE SELLS SEA SHELLS

4. SEASCAPE

5. UNDER THE SEA

Hammam towel, £34 With a multiplicity of uses – from a beach wrap to picnic blanket – the loomwoven Hammam towel is an inexpensive little luxury for everyday use From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

Pineapple cocktail necklace, £65 Because no beach-side reminiscence is complete without a tropical tipple From Bill Skinner, 15 Northumberland Place, Bath; www. billskinnerstudio.co.uk

Shell and pearl bracelet, £16.95 Adorned with fresh water pearls, this silver-plated wrist candy is elasticated to fit most size wrists From French Grey Interiors, 1 Burton Street, Bath; www. frenchgreyinteriors.co.uk

Orlebar Brown swim shorts, £225 Bright, tropical and fun, if these classic, tailor-fit shorts don’t get you in the holiday mood, we’re not sure what will From John Anthony, 26-28 High Street, Bath; www.john-anthony.com

Chocolate fish, £3.50 Bring the fun of the seaside to your snack time with a bag of these creamy white chocolate goldfish From San Francisco Fudge Factory, 6 Church Street, Abbey Green, Bath; www.sanfranciscofudge. co.uk

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

ED’S CHOICE

7

SHOPPING

8

MAKING WAVES SUMMER MAY BE COMING TO AN END, BUT THAT DOESN’T STOP US LONGING FOR THE SUN. FEEL CLOSE TO THE COAST WHEREVER YOU ARE WITH THESE BEACH-INSPIRED TREATS…

10

9

6. STEP IT UP

7. B IS FOR…

8. GONE FISHING

9. COLOUR POP

10. BAG IT UP

Gizeh Birkenstock sandals, £59.99 These super comfy metallic sandals are as suitable for the beach as they are for strolling around the streets From Toast, 7 Bartlett Street, Bath, www.toa.st

Beach arrow, £12.50 This worn, vintage-look wall-hanging will bring a touch of the seaside to your home From The Salcombe Trading Company, 9 Broad Street, Bath; www. salcombetrading.co.uk

Fish Placemat, £12 The distinctive Blue Fish table mat, designed by Alabasta, is created using intricately woven patterns that form bold and beautiful images From Avenida Home, 27 Walcot Street, Bath; www.avenidahome.com

Fading Light Across the Bay art work, £370 Painter and printmaker Louise Davies bases many of her works on the west coast of England and uses strong colour to convey the ever-changing landscape From Modern ArtBuyer, Bath; www.modernartbuyer. com

Floral zip Baggu, £7.50 With enough room inside for all your travel-sized essentials, this little pouch is perfect for taking away with you From Found, 17 Argyle Street, Bath; www.foundbath.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 71 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 69

Photo by Damon Charles

street of dreams Lisa Evans meets the brains behind Milsom Street’s eclectic boutiques and discovers the elegant Georgian thoroughfare’s hidden beauty

‘‘D

o you know I saw the prettiest hat you can imagine in a shop window in Milsom Street just now” – this is what a friend of Catherine Morland, Jane Austen’s heroine enthuses in Northanger Abbey.

The stylish and timeless street – which dates back to 1762 and was built by Thomas Lightholder – has long been a fashion hub of Bath. Jane Austen also mentions it in Persuasion and creates a picture of the thoroughfare that is very much as it is today.

Its buildings, most of which have mansard roofs and Corinthian columns, were originally designed as grand houses, but the area gradually became a popular shopping destination and began to boast a rich tapestry of independent boutiques and high street names housed in stunning Georgian architecture.

One of the oldest department stores in Europe, Jolly’s – affectionately known as the grand old lady of the street – is a big draw for visitors, as are the fashionable boutiques and stores such as Gabbucci Menswear, City Tailors

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

and ‘fairytale shoe fitters’ Ted & Muffy – with the footwear all designed in Frome. There are also some fantastic foodie hotspots such as the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it doorway to the underground characterful restaurant the Bengal Brasserie, which has been serving Indian cuisine since 1987, and steakhouse Miller and Carter. As well as all that, there are the more unusual offerings such as Mayther, known for its for its unique choice of handmade cards and accessories, and the eccentric Santoro Retail design house, which opened its first ever store here less than a year ago.

It might have a diverse array of allures, but many think the street is growing to become Bath’s interior design destination, with myriad homewear spots, from Hay to India Jane.

“Milsom Street has become the ‘go-to’ destination in Bath for interiors, home accessories, furniture and inspiration,” says Sue Sitton, India Jane’s store manager in Bath.

“It’s known for high-end brands and, over time, has become quite the destination for interiors.

When the opportunity arose for us to take over a splendid and historic building on Milsom Street, we jumped at the chance to be part of

Above left: Rachel Wardley, owner of Tallulah Rose Flower School; above right: subterranean hideaway, the Confessional Bar; opposite page, clockwise from top left: Georgina Lewarne at Chanii B; Josh Gibbons at Hunter & Sons; new-season footwear at Seven Boot Lane; Milsom Street; homewear at India Jane

Milsom

street has become the

go-to destination in bath for interiors

PHOTO BY JESSIE MYERS

PHOTO BY JESSIE MYERS

PHOTO BY JESSIE MYERS

PHOTO BY JESSIE MYERS

STREET LIFE

this wonderful city.”

But there’s more to the stunning façades and beautiful buildings on the street. Within what are assumed to be the least glamorous parts of the stores – the stockrooms – lie hidden secrets of their past which customers don’t see. At OKA, for example, behind the scenes you’ll find the original Georgian range cooker used by its 18th century inhabitants, and at gift store Vinegar Hill there’s an incredible basement with the original rooms, doors and fireplace still intact and a passageway leading under the pavement and road.

“We have quite a labyrinth of underground rooms,” says Beth Austin, director of the family-run Vinegar Hill. “The street itself is a wonderful, classic place for shoppers to browse. It captures the essence of Bath, with a wonderful example of the Georgian architecture and a lovely spirit.”

After 25 years as an antique dealer, and with experience as an interior designer, Candida Molyneux was drawn to open her designer homeware store, Savannah Home, in the historic Milsom Street too.

“We love being here as all the other shop owners and staff are so friendly,” she says. “We are definitely a community; I am actually having my hair done at the Claire Brown Hair Salon, three doors down from the shop, as we speak.

We all look after each other, which is nice.”

The area also appealed to former fashion buyer Arianna Brissi who opened her contemporary-meets-classic home furnishing store, Brissi, in a former Georgian merchant’s house on the street in 2014.

“Bath has long been our dream location for a flagship store outside London,” she says.

“When the store opened, we knew that our stressful nine-month restoration project had been worth every sleepless night. Reinstating all those gorgeous details hidden behind decades of covering-up was a very humbling experience.” w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 73

On the street, you’ll also find unassuming narrow doorways leading you into all manner of eclectic, long-established businesses.

Take Physioimpulse at Milsom Street clinic, for example. The company of chartered physiotherapists has been treating Bath residents for the last 15 years and expanded five years ago to open additional treatment rooms on this street to offer city centre workers the option of having treatment closer to work.

“The area has always been a fantastic shopping location and continues to be the main artery of shopping footfall,” says Stuart Galise who founded Physioimpulse in 2001. “But in our minds, the character and provenance of the street places it at the top of the list.”

In the same building is the beautiful Tallulah Rose Flower School which offers courses for the novice through to the professional florist. Its owner, Rachel Wardley, who opened the business on Milsom Street four years ago after training in London with Jane Packer, welcomes students from all over the world.

“Being in the heart of the city is a fabulous draw for our students,” she says. “Shops, eateries and a city buzz all add to the experience.

“There are so many fascinating aspects to the street,” she adds. “I was once shown around the vaults underneath Milsom Place, before the fabulous Confessional Bar moved in; the old wine crate tracks were still visible and there were tunnels leading off under the city as far as the eye could see.”

A subterranean hideaway, the Confessional Bar was founded by Russia’s Misha Zelman who also owns Burger & Lobster which opened in the 10,000 square foot 18th century Octagon Chapel, above the bar, last year.

“We chose The Octagon due to its stunning beauty and unusual layout,” says the general

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

PHOTO BY JESSIE MYERS

STREET LIFE

manager of both, Rob Reeves. “I love the fact that The Octagon will be 250 years old next year. There is so much history in this building, it’s unreal.”

This area seems to be one of the places where top brands like to settle, and internationally renowned London design house Santoro Retail – where you’ll find own-brand bags, stationery, fashion items, and home accessories – is one of those.

“The quaint street has a reputation for being a place to find unusual gift ideas,” says Santoro’s manager Yvette Wilmot. “There’s a lovely feeling first thing on a clear morning walking up Milsom Street past all of the listed buildings; it has such a wonderful historic atmosphere.”

Another sensory feast of the street is the pretty enclave that is Milsom Place, where you can totter into diverse recesses and discover a lucky dip of much-loved indies and big-name brands. There are blooms for your rooms at Anemone, luxury shoes at Seven Boot Lane and Chanii B, design-led gifts and accessories at Quadri, and evocatively fragrant candles, which are handmade in Wiltshire, at True Grace.

Former athlete James Hunter, who owns the newly rebranded café-cum-bar Hunter & Sons with film and television makeup artist Victoria Tiplady, brilliantly sums up the atmosphere of Milsom Street and Place.

“The street has an eclectic mix of stores – The Kooples being one of our favourites,” he says. “And Milsom Place is steeped in history and is beautiful to just get lost in. It’s a great blend of old and modern architecture and can be a hidden little network of shops, but we like that you have to seek us out.”

Above: Cristian Lourenco, Jazmin Roberton and Zoe Sinclair at Vinegar Hill; below: Lennox drinks trolley at OKA

YOU’LL FIND UNASSUMING

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9 Milsom Place, Milsom Street Bath BA1 1BZ

OFFICE SUPPLIES

01225 333693 www.chaniibshoes.com

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DELIVERIES TO YOUR DOOR...

TEL: 01249 444777 EMAIL: SALES@WOODSOFFICE.CO.UK WWW.WOODSOFFICE.CO.UK

Woods the stationers

OUR SHOP HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED IN BATH FOR OVER 200 YEARS

Come in for all your day to day and gift stationery Beautifully crafted, limited edition designer shoes and handbags

12 Old Bond Street, Bath Tel: 01225 445 347

Would you like to work in Media Sales?

We are always looking to hear from talented individuals who would like to work for MediaClash, presenting advertising opportunities and marketing solutions across our portfolio of fantastic local titles. We are a growing business and anticipate there being various opportunities over the next few months.

If you would like to join our continuing success story please email your CV to steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk or give us a call anytime on 01225 475800 for a chat about the company, our magazines and available positions.

www.mediaclash.co.uk

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

TAILORED TO YOU

Owners Ben and Mehmet Aydin

Ben and Mehmet Aydin established CITY TAILORS in Bath six years ago and are now the tailors of choice across Bristol and Bath

L

ocated in the heart of the city, City Tailors provides a range of quality bespoke tailoring, clothing alteration and re-styling services for both men and women. So, whether it is shortening a pair of trousers, creating a customised garment for you, altering a skirt or

a wedding dress, we can do all. Our reputation is built on our professionalism, dedication, attention to detail and true passion for craft. You can expect the highest quality of workmanship and timely service at a reasonable price here.

Using only the finest materials, all our bespoke tailoring and alteration is carried out in-house by our own skilled, highly experienced tailors and dressmakers. Casual or formal, contemporary fashion or classic cut, whatever suits your need, you can be assured of great results when selecting City Tailors. We also pride ourselves on providing good and practical advice for your tailoring needs.

For all your tailoring needs, pop in or request an appointment to meet with us and we will take care of your sartorial expectations.

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Whether you're planning to go out for some fine dining, attend a formal occasion or a wedding party, or even want to get married yourself, all you'll need is a special outfit. We can design and create that special outfit for you with unique details reflecting your personality and the event.

25 Milsom Street, Bath BA1 1DG 01225 920263; info@citytailors.co.uk www.citytailors.co.uk

Bath Life is now available to download. www.mediaclash.co.uk

The SUMMER LIST There’s always something that needs doing in the garden, whether it’s pruning, tidying or sowing, but here are the top tasks to undertake before the end of summer

By E M M A BON D

THIS SUMMER’S WEATHER HAS PROVIDED

PERFECT

CONDITIONS FOR OUR GASTROPOD FRIENDS TO REPRODUCE IN THEIR

MILLIONS

Verbena bonariensis can also need staking in late summer

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

GARDENING

Nepeta to allow it to put out new growth for late interest. Introduce some late annuals to brighten up areas that might need it. You can buy pots of ready-grown dahlias to add to the border if you did not get time to plant them out earlier in the year.

CREEPY CRAWLIES

Keep your Cranesbill tidy by deadheading and tying where possible

W

e have experienced yet another very wet summer this year. Bath has been awash with almost constant rain and any gardening has been done whilst dodging the showers. What we might expect at the end of the season is anyone’s guess, but I have noticed that most people’s gardens have planting that is slow to flower, with masses of green and lush growth but little else. The weeds, slugs and snails are having a marvellous time of it. Blasting gales have also been knocking the flowers off the roses and leaving soggy masses of petals.

Here are a few things you can do for your garden at this time of year…

I know for dealing with it is to put a bamboo cane or stick in the ground by a new shoot, let it grow up the cane until you have some leafy growth and, leaving the root in the ground, put the stem and leaves into a bag, spray some glyphosate into it, tie up the ends and leave until the weed is obviously dead. This is a good way of permanently eradicating the weed whilst keeping the chemicals away from other plants.

CARRY ON WEEDING

KEEP ON WATERING

We have had the ideal conditions for weeds to thrive, and there will be plenty of weeding to keep on top of. Bindweed, particularly, will be appearing everywhere and the best tip As soon as your roses have finished flowering, cut back the dead heads

GREEN MANURE

If you have bare patches of garden, try sowing some green manure plants such as Blue Tansy, Phacelia tanacetifolia, to cover the soil, prevent weeds from growing, and add nutrients.

This summer’s weather so far has provided perfect conditions for our gastropod friends to reproduce in their millions. My own garden has been thoroughly munched and even plants I thought safe from these little beasts have been had. Vigilance and a multiapproach is key to dealing with the potential damage; I use a mixture of hand-picking off the swines and throwing them elsewhere, a slug pellet product called Growing Success, which has no ill effects on other forms of more welcome wildlife, along with beer traps and crushed eggshells.

HEDGE YOUR BETS

From now to mid-September is a good time to trim any conifer or evergreen hedges including privet, yew, and Lonicera nitida as long as the weather is not too scorching. Any birds nesting will have flown and the hedges have a chance to recover themselves over the autumn. I prefer to prune laurel hedges earlier in the spring before they start putting on new growth.

LIGHTING UP

Despite the heavy showers, it’s essential to keep on watering. Water thoroughly and deeply to prevent powdery mildew and this also stops the roots coming up to the surface to find moisture. Dry, windy days will soon make pots and containers very dry. Rain never really gets into pots, so just because it has rained do not assume that the plants have had enough water.

Start to look at catalogues and decide what bulbs you might want to plant in the autumn.

Sometimes I put bamboo canes through the border so that I can plan the layout of any new bulb plantings. Alliums, narcissus, tulips, irises and crocuses can all be planted this autumn. Award-winning Avon Bulbs have an amazing selection which can be ordered online. I have my eye on their Champagne Selection of Allium bulbs. Kelways at Langport are always good for irises, and they also deliver. Similarly, if you are planning a wild flower border or meadow, think about the kinds of plug plants, seed or bulbs that you might include in your scheme.

OFF WITH THEIR HEADS!

GO GARDEN VISITING

Keep deadheading your plants to ensure a long-lasting display of flowers. Particularly this year when many plants have been slow to flower, you may be able to extend the season well into autumn, especially when it comes to roses.

REJUVENATE

Now is prime time to breathe some new life into the garden and prepare it for early autumn. Trim back any earlier flowering Cranesbill geraniums so that you encourage further flushes of flowers, stake any leggy or floppy plants and boldly cut back Catmint or

Get out and about. Bath and the surrounding area has a wealth of incredible gardens and landscapes to visit, both National Trust and otherwise. Some of my favourites include Iford Manor, Hestercombe, Dyrham Park and The Courts at Holt. There are also plenty of gardens open for the National Garden Scheme.

Emma Bond, Bath Garden Design and Landscaping, Orchard Studio, Old Orchard, 88a Walcot Street, Bath; 07968 727415; bathgardendesign.com Photos © Emma Bond

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

We visited gorgeous Kensington Palace

CAPITAL IDEA Felicity Gardiner heads to Kensington for a weekend of relaxed celebrations Be sure to book in for a sumptuous afternoon tea

Fashion Rules Restyled features glorious gowns worn by royalty

The beautifully imposing Milestone Hotel in the heart of elegant Kensington

G R E AT ESCAPES

The dramatic Harlequin Suite

W Enjoy a cocktail in the equestrian-themed Stables Bar

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hile you

never really need an excuse to visit the Big Smoke – and you certainly won’t once the train time from Bath is slashed next year – ours happened to be a milestone birthday. With a pulling out of all the stops completely compulsory, the five-star, 17th-century-built Milestone Hotel in Kensington Court was an apt choice.

Yes, because of its appropriate moniker, but its raft of awards and accolades had something to do with it, so to did its positioning, slap-bang in the middle of elegant Kensington – opposite the palace, lake and gardens, and grandly flanked by a myriad foreign embassies.

Relieved of our bags by a top-hatted doorman (proper London-like) who welcomes us like he genuinely means it, we step inside the classic-look hotel – once a school, a monks’ chapel and a lunatic asylum (though not at the same time, we hope). “Is it haunted?” birthday girl asks, semi-hopefully. “No,” comes the droll reply, but apparently the hotel has an excellent concierge who can arrange a ghost for us…

Up in the dramatic Harlequin Suite – inspired by 15th-century pantomime and fitted with French diamond-quartered furniture in black and white, and a theatrical chandelier of black glass – we sink into goose down pillows piled up against a huge gold statement headboard, refuelling with welcome champagne, fresh fruit and cupcakes printed with bespoke messages that provoke gasps of surprise.

The Milestone seems to specialise in TNTs – Tiny Noticeable Touches, we’re told, as we peruse the ‘pillow menu’ (aromatherapy, anti-snore, hangover) – and there are none of the airs and graces you might expect from a five-star establishment. In the conservatory, we find large sepia prints of Hepburn and Monroe hung on the walls, beside the bottle-green equestrian-themed Stables Bar, before heading for the wood-panelled, book-lined Park Lounge for afternoon tea. It’s a warm scones with Devonshire clotted cream and lavender eclairs, sort of affair, overseen by Noel Coward peering down at us from a portrait on the wall; and after, we opt for a digestive stroll around Kensington Gardens where we spot everything from scampering

squirrels, showboating rollerskaters and shih-tzus barrel-rolling in the freshly cut grass, to alfresco salsa classes and students tightroping between trees.

Later that afternoon, we try out the hotel’s resistance pool and sauna before it’s time to sample the work of executive chef Alexandros Diamantis at Cheneston’s (the name comes from an early spelling of Kensington). Surrounded by mahogany, leaded Victorian windows and an oak fireplace, we spread sun-dried tomato butter on preprandial pan to the sound of a live pianist tinkling the ivories, before tucking into pea and mint velouté; prawn and crayfish cocktail featuring the freshest, fattest chunks of fish; and hotel owner Bea Tollman’s Bea’s Eggs Royale – three eggs, scrambled, spooned back into their own shells and each topped with smoked salmon, caviar or potted shrimp. Picking from over 300 wines proves tricky, so we go with the recommendation of a refreshing sauvignon from Bea’s family vineyard to accompany perfectly cooked pan-fried wild sea trout with braised pear barley, minted peas, pickled beetroot and orange segments.

The next morning, bright and surprisingly early, we opt for the Rolling Stones’ Exhibitionism showcase at the Saatchi Gallery (showing until 4 September) and a tour of Kensington Palace – where the Fashion Rules Restyled exhibition has us admiring dresses worn

by HRH The Queen, Princess Diana and Princess Margaret, as well as old Vogues and gorgeous fashion illustrations by Norman Hartnell and Ian Thomas. There’s also plenty to entertain as part of Victoria Revealed – which offers lots of interesting interactive elements and the chance to see the ancient royal apartments – though if you want more lively than laidback, the bright lights of the West End are easily accessible, and the Albert Hall (and impressive Albert Memorial) are only minutes away if catching a show is high on the agenda.

For top-notch tucker, uber-classy surrounds and complete comfort and convenience – with a team who really go the extra mile – you might well want to pick The Milestone.

TRAVEL FILE We stayed at: The Milestone Hotel, 1 Kensington Court, London What will it cost: Prices for a junior suite start at £825

Exhibitionism is showing until 4 September

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Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions

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

PHOTO BY ROY NEWPORT

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

Could Milsom Street flourish as a financial centre?

FINANCE

ON THE MONEY

It’s out of the water and into the frying pan for which kitchen designer?

Find out on page 84

Bath and the West’s finance sector is being showcased as an alternative location to the City of London Bath and the surrounding region is being promoted as a financial services hotspot capable of attracting major international investment, while also playing a lead role in the UK’s emerging financial technology (fintech) industry.

The government’s trade promotion organisation – UK Trade & Investment – and the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) have recently launched the South West centre of excellence which will showcase the area as one of nine UK ‘financial centres of excellence’, to highlight that world-beating financial services are not just limited to London.

West of England LEP chairman Stephen Robertson listed three major advantages to the area, which includes a proud heritage as a financial centre, a highly skilled

workforce and a huge talent pool and a tech ecosystem that encourages innovation in new products.

Bath is already home to a diverse range of financial services firms from wealth managers such as Chase de Vere, Novia and Fidelius to independent financial advice firms Money Wise and Bath Building Society. Also, the University of Bath is an internationally acclaimed centre for research, and its School of Management is ranked among the world’s top one per cent of business schools.

Across the South West region as a whole, the sector contributes £12.6bn to the economy while more than 162,000 people rely on it for their job.

For more: www.westofenglandlep.co.uk

“I USED TO BE A MEMBER OF THE BRITISH WATER SKI TEAM”

£12.6bn THE BIG NUMBER

How much the South West region contributes to the economy.

Find out more opposite

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

BUSINESS INSIDER

ONE TO WATCH

STEPHEN GRAVER Stephen Graver is the happy carpenter turned company director of his own kitchen design company, Stephen Graver Ltd. Here he talks plans for a high street store, cooking paella and being able to somersault Tell us a bit about your background…

My mother was from Bath and my father from Chesterle-Street. They met at a dance in Bath when he was doing his National Service with the RAF at Colerne. I’m the middle child of three and was born in St Martins Hospital. We lived in Larkhall and Oldfield Park, before moving to Bradford on Avon when I was 11.

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

I always wanted to be a professional sportsman and it was gymnastics I was passionate about. I even thought about the army so I could continue gymnastics to higher level but this didn’t happen, although I can still do a somersault if needs be.

What was your first job?

My first job was as an apprentice motorcycle mechanic and I trained at Holloway Motorcycles, which used to be on St James Parade. I still ride most days to visit clients; it’s the best way to get in and around Bath.

How did you progress into working with Stephen Graver Kitchens?

Once I’d finished my motorcycle apprenticeship I decided to begin working at my dad’s building company as a carpenter’s mate, I had a knack for being able to visualise a project and see it through.

Years later a friend asked me to make him a kitchen as part of a much larger building project. Soon after I was asked to make one for a friend of a friend, and so it began. We bought and converted our current workshop, offices and studio in Steeple Ashton, 10 years ago.

What makes your business stand out from your competitors?

We have an exceptional team and everyone has a can do attitude. We design and build everything, all in-house, to make sure we meet each client’s brief.

How does Stephen Graver Ltd. intend to grow?

We are making plans to expand the business, with larger workshops and a high street location.

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

Kitchen designer Stephen also loves to cook al fresco style

Do you like cooking?

I would say I’m a good cook – Mrs G aka Amanda would say I am a ‘one dish wonder.’ My speciality, and my favourite meal, is paella cooked out doors on the BBQ, coupled with a decent Rioja and great friends to share it with.

What are your favourite places to eat out in Bath?

Olé Tapas on John Street is great and if it’s for a drink, then it’s got to be the Gin Bar, of course.

Where do you enjoy outside of Bath?

Amanda and I love spending time in Africa and are planning an overland trip in our Land Rover in September.

What might we be surprised to learn about you?

I used to be a member of the British Water Ski team.

For more: www.stephengraver.com

MY FAVOURITE MEAL, IS PAELLA COOKED OUT DOORS ON THE BBQ, COUPLED WITH A DECENT RIOJA AND GREAT FRIENDS TO SHARE IT WITH

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC

Andrew Summers and Hannah Williams from Juice Recruitment

SADDLE UP Staff from Juice Recruitment will be cycling the 60 miles between their South West offices on 30 September to raise money for the Prince’s Trust. “Prince’s Trust is an inspirational charity, with a real message of positivity and productivity,” says managing director Emma Summers. www.juicerecruitment.com

A HAPPY SHIP M2 Bespoke the Limpley Stoke content publishing agency is the Bath winner of the Happiest Workplace competition organised by interior design consultancy Wylde IA. Founder Ben Hollom lays on breakfast, a lunch every Friday and a flexible approach to working, which results in high levels of employee retention. www.wyldeia.co.uk

GOOD WEALTH Bath-based Epoch Wealth Management is one of just three national finalists competing for the prestigious title of Leading Adviser Practice in the Schroders UK Platform Awards 2016, “We’re hoping that this will be our time to win,” says managing partner Barry Newbury. www.epochwm.co.uk

Anthony Watson runs in for the try against Leicester Tigers at Welford

BATH RUGBY NEWS

W

Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters

hen two tribes go to war, The Clash is born. One of the biggest sporting and entertainment events of 2017 is set to take place at Twickenham Stadium between fierce rugby rivals Bath Rugby and Leicester Tigers.

To celebrate the meeting of these star-studded historic foes, the home of rugby will become a festival in the form of a three-zoned mini-city called The Forum. Along with a feast of food and drink, and stage acts, there’s the opportunity to meet Bath Rugby players past and present, and make the ‘tunnel of noise’ on a grander scale. Within the stadium itself, a pre-match show featuring music and pyrotechnics

will build as the players enter the arena for the epic Aviva Premiership showdown. “This isn’t just a day for Bath Rugby supporters; we’re putting on a superb, affordable family day out that will have lots of fun and entertainment for all ages, with the added bonus of a fantastic game of rugby as the centrepiece.” says managing director Tarquin McDonald.

“Everyone at the club is incredibly excited about The Clash. We decided to take one of our games and put it on a bigger stage so that the wider supporter base we have can enjoy a great day at a Bath Rugby game they may not get to see ordinarily.

“From a rugby point of view, it will also provide the players with the opportunity to play the game in an international stadium.

For more: www.bathrugby.com

BUSINESS INSIDER

BREAKING NEWS

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

DOG FANCIER Does your dog need a makeover? Then take a walkie to the brand new city-centre gift shop Pug & Puffin, which is filled with Bath and dog-themed treats, accessories and homeware.

Pug & Puffin was started in 2014 in Dorset by Jenny Winscombe and her father Martin. “We are both artists with a love of dogs, so combining these passions seemed like the perfect idea,” explains Jenny.

“I grew up in Bath and following the success of our Lyme Regis store, it was the next logical step to expand into the city. “ The Northumberland Place store contains a workshop and studio where designs will be handmade, and is also home to Noah the pug, who inspired the brand.

Jenny with the naturalborn model Noah For more: www.pugandpuffin.co.uk

Dom and Ali bring the love back to Bath

DEPARTMENT OF INTERIORS

WEDDING MARCH

A specialist Georgian and Regency interior design practice is about to open a show home and design studio in Bath.

Latham Interiors, founded by Sarah Latham in 2010, has set up home in the artisan quarter of Walcot Street. “Our studio in Bath is to service our growing number of clients in the region who require specialists rather than generalists to bring out the best from their Georgian features and dynamics,” explains Sarah. “As specialists, it is inspiring to be working surrounded by some of the greatest Georgian architectural masterpieces in Britain such as the Royal Crescent, The Circus, the Pump Room and the Assembly Rooms.”

Award-winning Prezola, the wedding gift list company, have recently moved brand newly refurbished offices in Queen Square, Bath.

“We started the business in Bath,” explains Ali Beaven, co-founder and chief creative officer. “So it’s great being back here and working in the city. With our warehouses still based nearby in Westbury, Bath gives the company everything it needs to thrive and grow even more.”

Prezola, which Ali set up in 2010 with her husband Dom, has also just been nominated for the Top 10 South West Trailblazers by Business Leader magazine with the business set to break the £10m barrier in 2016, making it the largest dedicated e-commerce platform in the UK wedding industry.

For more: www.lathaminteriors.co.uk

Sarah Latham has grand designs

For more: www.prezola.com

LAW AGENTS

Kate and Rhiannon take it hire

Two solicitors have joined forces to open the very first legal recruitment agency in the South West that is run by fully qualified legal practitioners.

Bath-based Zest Recruitment and Consultancy LLP, established by Kate Shorney-Morris and Rhiannon Cambrook-Woods, covers all legal sector hiring requirements, with a particular focus on litigation, negligence,

commercial property and conveyancing.

“The type of recruitment business that we wanted didn’t exist, so we created it ourselves,” explains director Rhiannon, whose company has also recently opened an additional base in Cardiff.

For more: www.zestrecruitmentandconsultancy.co.uk

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WINNER’S PROFILE

BATH LIFE AWARDS

HEALTH WINNER Sponsored by

BATH SPA DENTISTRY

Dermot McNulty, clinical director of Bath Spa Dentistry, talks rugby, sweet things and how social media has helped improved the image of dentistry How did you celebrate the Bath Life Award?

We opened the bottle of champagne to share with the team that night, and we are still celebrating the achievement now, every time someone comments on our win.

Did you always want to be a dentist?

My parents and grandparents were all involved in medicine; my father was a radiologist in Bath. Initially I had places at universities to study law and history but I gave these up, took a year out and then decided to apply to dental school.

Dermot and the Bath Spa Dentistry team are all smiles after picking up their award

What are the future plans for the practice?

In the autumn we will have an ‘endodontist’ or root canal dentist joining us. The aim is to steadily progress to have all the requirements for advanced dentistry under one roof but at the same time provide a base for caring general dentistry.

What do you think makes Bath Spa Dentistry stand out from its competitors?

We are one of the leading private referral dental practices in Bath, and known as being one of the centres of advanced and restorative dentistry in the UK. How would you describe your job?

Every day is different. One day I might be in surgery for nine hours, giving a whole new smile to a patient with a complete set of new fixed teeth, and the next I could be discussing a range of cosmetic and aesthetic procedures with another patient. Fridays are different as I teach, either my own implant courses in Bath or as a lecturer, examiner and course director for the Royal College of Surgeons in London.

Do you think people’s attitudes towards dentists are changing?

Yes, and I think social media has helped. Before that, most people only saw their dentist once a year, which didn’t allow much time for dentists to make a positive impression on their patients. Now they can engage with us 24/7 through our website, emails, and social media channels, which I think helps people see us as more approachable, responsive and friendly.

How has Bath Spa Dentistry played a part in the local community?

Over the last few years we have got more involved in local charities, and we work closely with Bath Rugby as their 88 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

dentistry partner. We also run free evening study group sessions for local dentists, which helps us stay involved in local dental community too.

SUGAR IS ONE OF MY ADDICTIONS I’M AFRAID

What do you do when you’re not working?

I am part of a large family and have five children and, no matter what their age, I am fortunate to be heavily involved in their lives. Also, sport has always been important to me, especially Bradford on Avon Rugby Club, which I’ve been a part of, in various guises, for over 10 years.

What do you think makes Bath special?

Apart from it having everything you could ever want – from small indie shops to world-famous visitor attractions – Bath statistically has more dentists per head than anywhere other than London in the UK. Did your parents ever have to tell you to brush your teeth?

This was a while ago, but I do remember continuous reminders for both myself, and my brothers and sisters!

What’s your favourite sweet thing?

I must admit, sugar is one of my addictions I’m afraid... so anything sweet!

For more: www.bathspadentistry.com

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

PROTECTING YOUR ASSETS How effective are Asset Protection Trusts in protecting the value of a person’s home against depletion through payment of care fees? HELEN STARKIE explains

I

n a previous article I have explained the potential pitfalls of gifting or selling your home to your children during your lifetime. An arrangement of this sort is rarely advisable. In most cases it will neither save inheritance tax nor protect the value of the home against means testing for care funding purposes. In many instances it will cause expensive problems.

However, many people believe that a ‘safe’ alternative is to set up an Asset Protection Trust (APT) and transfer ownership of their home into that. In certain and very limited cases this can work, but, again, there are risks.

I am not going to consider the inheritance tax issues here; I have not room – but let us have a look at the possibility of protecting the value of one’s home against means testing for care funding purposes by using an APT. If it decides that a home placement is needed for an individual, the local authority must carry out an assessment of that person’s ability to pay for that care. If the individual has assets worth more than £23,250 they will have to pay for their care in full.

For a permanent care placement, the value of the person’s share in their home will be taken into account in calculating their worth, unless it is occupied by their partner, spouse, older or incapacitated relative or a dependent child.

First, the good news. If your will is properly drafted, it is absolutely possible and acceptable for you to ring-fence the value of your share in your home against means testing and depletion should your partner or spouse need to be in residential care after your death using either an outright gift to individuals other than that partner or spouse or a trust (the latter usually being the more attractive option to retain some flexibility in the arrangement of their affairs for the surviving partner or spouse).

“ALL IS NOT AS SIMPLE AS IT MAY AT FIRST APPEAR!”

The bad news is that if you dispose of an asset during your lifetime with the intention of taking it out of the equation for means testing by the local authority, should you yourself need care then the local authority is entitled to regard that disposal as a ‘deliberate deprivation’ of capital and assess you as if the asset was still yours.

The term Asset Protection is in itself a bit of a give-away here. The phrase is used not to describe one particular type of trust (it can apply to a variety of different sorts) but the purpose of the trust is to protect the assets in it against means testing and use for care funding and/or tax liability.

The problem is the same whether you give or sell the asset to the trust. In the latter case you may well incur a liability to stamp duty land tax as well as the expense of a formal valuation of the property and a land registry fee. If you gift the property or sell it at an undervalue you may also find yourself having made a ‘gift with reservation of benefit’ for inheritance tax purposes – or alternatively incurring an annual charge to income tax under the ‘previously owned asset’ taxation rules.

Once the home is disposed of to someone

other than the occupier, the capital gains tax ‘principal private residence’ relief on it is lost, and in addition there will be no tax-free uplift to the market value of the property when the person who disposed of the property dies.

And of course, once disposed of, you lose your control of your own home.

So, tread carefully and seek proper advice should you be tempted to part with the ownership of your property. All is not as simple as it may at first appear!

Helen Starkie Solicitor 5 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2PH 01225 442353 www.helenstarkie.co.uk

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

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

TRIPLE THREAT This beautifully appointed Grade-I home occupies a rare and important position on The Circus and Brock Street

By E V E LY N GR E E N

92 LIFE LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 112I I BATH CLIFTON I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

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PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

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o matter how opulent, striking or sumptuous its interior décor, when a home is situated on one of Britain’s premier architectural sites, it’s already going to be a winner.

But this particular Grade-I listed house isn’t just in a prime spot, it has a very rare selling point in that it occupies an important position with an unusual triple aspect. The property has three-way views across The Circus from both the front and the side of the house, and delightful western views across Gravel Walk and to Royal Victoria Park from the back. Forming the northern end of the south western quadrant of The Circus, 1 Brock Street is a superb example of Bath’s Georgian architecture designed

by Bath’s most renowned architect John Wood The Elder, and built by his son John Wood The Younger.

The interior architectural detail is outstanding too.

As you step inside, you’re greeted by a wide reception hall with a working fireplace and a spectacular, fully cantilevered staircase spanning three floors. Many of the rooms have eye-catching chimneypieces and ornate ceiling mouldings, and there are wide panelled doors with fluted architraves and tall sash windows adorned with working shutters. A triumph of Wood’s design rarely found, is the splendid oval drawing room on the first floor.

The house’s arrangement and appointment is superb and pristine. The property was fully restored by the present owners to a single family home in 2007, which has greatly enhanced the original architectural integrity of the house.

It benefits from first-class interior design and decoration throughout; the music room, with its full views of The Circus, is especially remarkable and has a fine marble fireplace and ceiling mouldings – which have been restored to their original condition using 22 carat gold leaf – and is further enhanced by an attractive hardwood parquet floor.

The dining room, with views toward The Circus, has an 94 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise, from top left: a staircase reminiscent of that in an Escher painting; roll-top tub in bathroom luxe; metallic vibes in one of the dining rooms; pretty pastel hues in the kitchen; Right: An Italianate-style secluded walled courtyard

HOUSE NUMBERS

6,728

square feet of space

5

reception rooms

1

courtyard

£3.75M price

5

bedrooms

1

garden

immaculate American walnut parquet floor, wallpaper by Ralph Lauren and the original marble fireplace. Adjacent to the dining room, and also on the ground floor, there is a spacious, tastefully designed, pastel-hued kitchen/ breakfast room which was hand-made, built and fitted by Thomas & Thomas.

With its 19 impeccably adorned rooms, including five bedrooms, five reception rooms and three bathrooms, the elegant and beautifully flowing accommodation is designed for family living. The top floor is currently arranged as a two-bedroom guest suite or staff flat and the lower ground floor can also be used as a guestroom if required.

Another stunning feature is the romantic Italianate walled garden at the back of the house – a perfect, private spot to sit and bask in the morning sun.

A rare find, this is exactly the kind of home – in terms of its unique style, position and history ¬ that people move to Bath specifically to find.

Savills Bath, Edgar House, 17 George Street, 01225 474500; www.savills.co.uk

Red Lion Quarry, Off Frome Road, Odd Down, Bath Prices from ÂŁ335,000 An exciting opportunity to acquire one of 14 brand new homes in this bold and contemporarily styled development by successful local developers Crossman Homes.

A choice of three bedroom and four bedroom modern townhouses. Elegant interiors with fitted kitchens, bathrooms and luxurious en-suite shower rooms to master bedrooms.

Tucked away enclosed development close to local shops with gardens and allocated parking. Now under construction, build completion anticipated Autumn 2016.

Staple Hill, North East Bristol Prices from ÂŁ189,950 A choice of 10 apartments situated in this brand new elegant 4 storey building situated just off this bustling high street in north east Bristol between Downend and Fishponds.

Two bedrooms, bathroom and living room with fitted kitchenette, Double glazed, Gas CH and allocated parking space. Excellent access to transport links and city centre.

Ideal for FTB or investors.

COMING EARLY 2017 4 NE W LUXURY HOMES

T: 01225 471116 crossmanhomes.co.uk

T: 01225 325857

timbennettandassociates.co.uk

Buying or selling, just search Savills.

Savills Bath Edgar House, 17 George Street Bath BA1 2EN

01225 474 591 bath@savills.com

savills.co.uk

Leopold House, Victoria Bridge Road, Bath riverside, BA2 Prices from ÂŁ775,000 A sumptuous 2 bedroom penthouse with breathtaking views across the city of Bath and the countryside beyond. This unique property has been designed to the highest contemporary standards by Crest Nicholson with a beautifully equipped kitchen by Alno and Porcelanosa tiling in the bathroom. The open plan living space opens onto a superb roof terrace whilst the full height glass drinks in those glorious views. The master bedroom suite includes dressing area and luxurious en suite. Secure underground parking is also included.

This stunning new property is ready for immediate occupation so please do contact us to arrange a viewing of our show penthouse.

Contact: Giles Harling

GHarling@savills.com | 01225 474 591

Moving homes your way.

With 120 years experience, we know it’s not just a matter of moving things from A to B. It’s about the smallest detail and the greatest consideration.

Wherever your destination, each of our branches offers purpose-built storage facilities with quick and easy access to ease the strain of moving house.

For generations, we’ve helped our valued customers move their way and we’d love to do the same for you.

Call us today or visit our website, and we’ll get in touch within 24hrs.

Bath 01225 460 650

Or visit: www.robinsonsrelo.com Fully accredited member of the British Association of Removers (BAR) and a Which? Trusted Trader

a d v ertisin g feature p r o p e r t y

IMMEDIATE RETURNS MAKES RIVERSIDE INVESTMENT OF CHOICE On-going build completions, the chance to get stamp duty paid plus a one-off furniture package is making investors, looking to place their money in property, strongly consider the South West’s leading new development

N

ews on the continued build programme comes from Crest Nicholson’s Bath Riverside and means anyone who reserves a property at the development won’t have to wait months for the build work to finish before they can advertise their property to potential tenants.

A reassuring message to anyone wanting to invest in bricks and mortar, the prospect of getting the stamp duty paid and furniture package also provides a double whammy of significant savings and attractive proposition to potential tenants looking for somewhere to live.

Mary Timlin, Crest Nicholson sales and marketing director said: “The fact that anyone who buys a property at the award-winning development can gain instant returns on their investment places Bath Riverside in the box seat for would-be property investors.

“To have brand new furniture as part of the deal will also give buyers a hassle free route to attracting tenants.”

Ticking a lot of boxes for discerning landlords and tenants, Bath Riverside’s proximity to the city centre and Bath Spa railway station is a big selling point. The fact that the properties are brand new and are cheaper to run is also a big attraction for potential tenants.

The city’s favourable reputation both home

and abroad for both its secondary and further education also attracts thousands of students, many from other countries looking to study in the UK. Including scores from China and the Far East, pressure on current housing stock has meant limited availability in terms of places to rent, so anyone wanting a buy-to-let will find a ready supply of tenants looking for somewhere to live.

Mary added: “UK education is highly regarded across the globe and Bath is blessed with two well renowned universities and a host of quality private and preparatory schools.

“Parents, whose sons and daughters are planning on coming to Bath to study for a degree, and are considering buying so that their offspring have somewhere to live during their studies, will be hard pushed to find anything comparable.

“It solves the issue of them having to find somewhere half decent to live and renting the other rooms out will help provide an income.”

Current availability at the development includes a selection of two-bedroom, twobathroom apartments, often viewed as the

preferred choice for those looking to rent.

Located in the Alexandra House phase, they will be the last apartments available for at least two years at the development – so the need to act now couldn’t be more urgent.

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

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

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Q&A

S

he’s currently celebrating her first year as director of development and alumni at Kingswood School in Bath where she’s loving her role. Here, we catch up with Susannah who tells us about her passion for the city and the

people in it…

What’s your role at Kingswood School?

I’m one of the lucky ones as I get to meet a vast cross section of the Kingswood community – from little ones at our prep school to past Kingswoodians in their 90s. Everyone has a story to tell about their time at Kingswood and each one is fascinating. I’m very proud to fundraise for the Kingswood Foundation, our registered charity, which helps to provide the very best facilities for our pupils and also supports the crucially important bursary fund, which helps to support families who have suffered some kind of trauma.

Tell us about the best parts of the job…

It would be having the opportunity to play a role in the future of Kingswood School by raising funds for restoration, refurbishment and building the best facilities for our pupils, which will be my legacy. We have recently been granted planning permission to build a new state-of-theart education centre and nursery for Kingswood Prep School. The building aims to bring the outside, inside, so that younger children have a real sense of freedom, energy and space, enabling them to be more creative and ambitious in their learning.

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

I live in Bathwick with my partner of almost 20 years. Even after decades of living here I am still awestruck by the architecture and the magnificent Georgian buildings. I adore wandering into the city on Sunday afternoons, strolling around the Royal Crescent and thinking about all the people who have ever lived there; oh, to have a time machine!

Share a favourite spot in the city…

I have friends who live on Widcombe Hill; the view from their house is stunning. I like looking back at Bath from the surrounding hills, especially at night when it looks so magical.

SUSANNAH MANSFIELD

The director of development at Bath’s Kingswood School talks time travel, becoming an author and her love of Bath’s Chandos Deli Your favourite restaurant, bar and café in Bath?

The Canary Gin Bar is one of my favourite watering holes; for dinner I like The Chequers and Rajpoot; and my favourite lunch stop is Chandos Deli.

If you had to live anywhere else where would it be?

A nearby village so that I could get my Bath fix regularly. Otherwise, I am fond of Rome.

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

Keep your star shining brightly.

What do you do to relax?

I am a voracious reader; sometimes I’ll read a book each week. At the moment I’m reading See How They Run by Tom Bale. I love suspense thrillers – the scarier the better!

What was the last film you saw?

The Jungle Book – utterly fabulous and thoroughly recommended (although, be prepared to be humming I Wanna Be Like You for days afterwards).

Most treasured possession?

I wept over a book about the abdication of King

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

Edward VIII and felt so moved by the story that I wrote to the Duchess of Windsor who, by that time, was widowed. I didn’t expect a response, but she sent a note of thanks for thinking of her and, to my delight and amazement, she sent me a Christmas card that year too. They are both very special items to me and a reminder of possibly one of the greatest love stories ever to be played out on the public stage.

Any hidden talents?

I adore animals and seem to have a calming effect on them, they tend to fall asleep when I stroke them.

Your finest hour so far?

Securing a £1million donation for the National Trust, just prior to leaving my post there to take up my current position with Kingswood School – I celebrated in style that evening.

Surprise us…

I researched everyone who has ever lived in my 19th century house and wrote a book about them called The House.

www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk