Bath Life – issue 322

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 322 / 16 – 30 SEPTEMBER 2016 / £3

@BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 322 / 16 – 30 SEPTEMBER 2016 / STEP UP TO THE NEW SEASON

KINGSMEAD SQUARE REIGNS SUPREME

FINE DINING AT THE ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL

INSIDE S T O RY THE GREAT BATH FEAST IS BACK GETTING UNDER THE SKIN WITH LI Z EARLE

A BRE ATH OF FRE S H A IR FOR AUTUM N’S HOM E ST Y LING

WE FALL FOR FASHION’S NEW LOOKS

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 322 / 16 – 30 SEPTEMBER 2016

Step inside

34

FALL FOR AUTUMN

According to the city’s interior experts, this is a season of moody shades and rough-luxe styling

Welcome to our annual autumn interiors issue – which, although we know we shouldn’t be biased, is one of our favourites of the year. With each new season come new trends for the home, and this one’s pretty exciting. It’s not your typical colour palette of all berry shades and fallen leaf hues, this time around we’re seeing inky blues, rich teals and even black coming to the forefront of the mood board, and we’re seriously captivated.

With many new homeware stores opening in the city – including Graham and Green, which we’ve been eagerly anticipating for many months – and exciting additions popping up at others, such as the Mathew Williamson collection at Rossiters of Bath – the first and only retailer to offer the range in the West of England – it’s hard to know where to shop first. But, whether you’re after rosy metallics or rough-around-the-edges styling, our guide on page 34 aims to inspire your new-season refresh. You can also browse luxurious home accessories on page 52; peek through the keyhole of a majestic Georgian gem on page 142; and mull over David Flatman’s second-home designs on page 25.

Elsewhere, we caught up with Wiltshire beauty guru Liz Earle (page 106); met the fascinating traders in the up-and-coming Kingsmead Square (page 122); and indulged our taste buds at The Royal Crescent Hotel (page 98).

It’s a hefty issue in every sense of the word and we hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed creating it.

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

BONITI

NATURAL STONE FLOORING

TIMBER FLOORING

PLEASE SEND ENQUIRIES TO SHOWROOM@BONITI.COM 01225 892 200 WWW.BONITI.COM

EVERHOT RANGE COOKERS

GARDEN FURNITURE

FEATURES / ISSUE 322 / 16 – 30 SEPTEMBER 2016

98

RESTAURANT

The Royal Crescent’s Dower House Restaurant serves up a spectacular six-course tasting delight

154 Bath Lives

We catch up with Bath Rugby’s Todd Blackadder

REGULARS / ISSUE 322 / 16 – 30 SEPTEMBER 2016

INTERIORS 52 Editor’s choice Homeware accessories get seasonal

74 Directory Your go-to list of interiors specialists in and around the city

102

M E ET T H E T EAM Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Intro image Paolo Ferla Contributors: Nic Bottomley, Jennifer Jennings Wright and David Flatman Senior advertising manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Justine Walker justine.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Sales executive Sophie Speakman sophie.speakman@mediaclash.co.uk Sales executive Alana Medforth alana.medforth@mediaclash.co.uk

THE ARTS 81 Arts intro Fred Cuming, one of the most important figurative British artists

82 What’s on Time to update the events diary

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

91 Music The inside track on Peter Hook

95 Bookshelf Nic Bottomley has a trio of new novels to recommend

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

97 Reel to reel The Little’s Jennifer Jennings Wright talks trains and knitting

FOOD

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

102 Food festival The city gets foodie with the Great Bath Feast

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

106 One-to-one Liz Earle reveals the secrets to eating your way to great skin

111 Food & drink news Ted’s Big Bake Off and the sweet success of a confectionary bicycle

SHOPPING 113 Shopping intro It’s a material world for Bath-based artist Carole Waller

114 Fashion We’re haute-to-trot this month

LIFEST YLE

PROPERT Y

122 Street life

142 Property showcase

Hanging around the hip and happening Kingsmead Square

Wander around a Georgian gem in Bathampton Lane

BUSINESS

DEPARTMENTS

131 Business insider

13 16 25

The latest news, views and interviews from the region’s 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

On the cover Step this way for new-season interior trends. Photo for Graham and Green by Mel Yates. See the feature on page 34

PHOTO BY ROY NEWPORT

PHOTO BY CLARE GREEN FOR MATCHTIGHT

BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES

Visitors vote for Bath

TOURISM

WELL TRAVELLED Bath was voted the UK’s third favourite city, just behind London and Edinburgh, at the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Travel Awards on 30 August.

The city was singled out for its beautiful Georgian architecture, with the surrounding area’s hotels and hotel spas also scoring highly in overall rankings – The Spa Village at the Gainsborough Hotel was fourth; Cowshed Spa at Babington house ninth; and The Spa at Lucknam Park 11th.

“To be voted by readers of Condé Nast Traveller, one of the most iconic travel magazines, is a real achievement for the city as a whole,” says David James, chief executive of VisitBath.

For more: www.cntraveller.com

Tony Ali from Matrix Fitness, Colin Jackson, Team Bath ‘s Miles Peyton and University of Bath’s Stephen Baddeley

UNIVERSITY OF BATH

JACKSON HIGH FIVE Athletics legend Colin Jackson returned to his former University of Bath training base earlier this month to celebrate National Fitness Day by officially opening the extensively refurbished Team Bath Gym. “I won many World, European and Commonwealth medals while proudly representing Team Bath, so it’s always great to come back and see how the university and the Sports Training Village is developing,” says the double World 110m

hurdles champion. “I am so jealous of the guys now having this amazing equipment – back in the day I just used to lift dead weights!”

Bob Smith, senior coach with Team Bath, also ran a half-marathon on a treadmill – his 35th half-marathon of the year, as he continues to raise money for the Wallace and Gromit Grand Appeal at Bristol Children’s Hospital.

For more: www.teambath.com

SPOTLIGHT

HEALTH

We’re listening to what Dr Hilary has to say

TO OUR GOOD HEALTH! Bath has just been named the healthiest city in the UK and, to celebrate, a free, all-day wellness event is being held in Queen Square on 21 September with TV’s Dr Hilary Jones.

The campaign called Hear’s To Health, is aimed at over 50s and hopes to raise awareness of the importance of having regular health and hearing checks. “Regular hearing screenings to identify hearing loss will not only mean you’re more likely to enjoy good hearing for a lifetime, but will also benefit your wider health and wellbeing,” explains Dr Hilary.

There will be events all day including free check-ups, a Zumba class held by ITV’s

BATH LIFE AWARDS

BIG NEW AFTERSHOW PARTY FOR AWARDS! Maxine Jones, a quiz and Dr Hilary Jones awarding the Mayor with a trophy to celebrate Bath’s healthy win.

For more: www.hearstohealth.co.uk

EDUCATION

NANNY STATE Norland College, which trains Bath’s distinctive and world-renowned Norland nannies and maternity nurses, has seen its largest ever student intake this term.

“We are now made up of 92 students – up from 45 just five years ago,” explains new principal Dr Janet Rose, an established author and researcher in the field of early years education.

Norland College was founded in Norland Place, London, in 1892 and the graduates are amongst the most sought after childcare professionals in the world boasting clientele which includes aristocrats, royals and celebrities.

For more: www.norland.co.uk

Partying in awardwinning style

Dr Janet and her charges

Bath Life Awards has a new AfterShow Party venue – and bold plans for a bigger event.

The famed AfterShow will now be in Circo and will be an uberglam affair in its own right, separate to the awards.

The Porter Bar was recently revamped as Circo, extending into a much larger space in George Street.

“The new AfterShow Party will be closely linked with the awards physically and in terms of vibe,” says event manager Steph Dodd. “We’re delighted to be partnering with Circo; it’ll be an awesome way to celebrate the awards night.”

Other sponsorship opportunities include Champagne Reception and the new shoulder event: Finalists’ Reception on 2 February.

Current sponsors include: the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa (Headline) plus category sponsors Bath Rugby, Stone King, Novia, Tile & Flooring, Fidelius, Savills, Bluefin, Apex Hotels, Bath Audi, First Bus, Minuteman, Bath VW and now Circo for the AfterShow.

For more: For sponsorship enquiries, please contact pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk @BathLifeAwards

Adventures in party-going

Wen-Chih Chao and Dimitrije Jankovic

SCENE

Mike Crockford and Carly Mallon

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

STUDIO LIGHTS Ruth Thorp

Pitch 26, a new Bath gallery and studio based in Church Street which displays contemporary and original architectural illustrations of Bath and the UK, held its grand opening on 2 September. Friends and colleagues of owner Robert Kann helped raise money for Julian House on the night, with a raffle to win limited edition prints.

Photos by Beata Cosgrove www.beatacosgrovephotography.com

Carly Foster and Luke Cooke

Robert Welsh

Emma Savage, Robert Kann and Paolo Ferla

Kyrstyn Oberholster, Cecilia Bonavia and Sarocha Manaanantakul Paul Brookes, Joshua Brookes and Sarah Brookes

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

SOCIETY Lucy Delve, Felicity Wendover and Marie Roberts

ART WORKS Three locally-based artists Rod Craig, Sylvia Owen and Lynne Roche, with three very different styles – watercolours, drawings, and painted ceramics – pooled their talents under one roof at the 44AD gallery for their Brush With Colour exhibition. The trio held a private viewing night with wine and nibbles on 30 August.

Photos by Philip Field www.philipfield.com

Jonas Rawlings, Eliza Rawlings and Beccy Rawlings

Carole Stott and Frances Philbrook

Marion Gibbs

Mike Renton and Linda Renton Eleanor Wardle and Anthony Wardle

Lynne Roche, Rod Craig and Sylvia Owen

Roger Owen and Stephen Roche

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

SOCIETY

CHAT SHOW The first ever gathering of the online social community group Bath Indie Chat, was held at the independent pub Chapter One on 2 September. It was organised by the group’s founder Sal Godfrey for the simple purpose of making conversation and connections over deliciously locally produced food, which included artisan scotch eggs

by Taste Fool.

Delia Slucutt, Louise Bennett and Bonnie Rose

Emma Heap, Jenny Rose, David Rose and Helen Rich

Photos by Sal Godfrey www.salskitchen.blogspot.co.uk

Sophia Clifford-Sanghad, Sandra Young, Emma Boatman and Sarah Clayton

Rosie Marteau, Lou Macdonald and Doug Whitelaw

SOUND AND MOTION

Cornelia Topping

A VIP preview of Bang & Olufsen’s new product collection took place at the company’s Fountain Buildings store on 1 September. More than 35 invited guests enjoyed glasses of Prosecco with Italian-inspired mini focaccia canapés, whilst browsing the new range of audio and visual products including their state-of-the-art BeoLab loudspeakers.

Photos by Philip Field www.philipfield.com

Shaun Houcke Mini Farrell

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

Sarah Robinson and Dan Leech

SOCIETY

QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS

Ken Jefferies

The award-winning Indian restaurant The Mint Room recently hosted and provided the food for Bathavon Rotary’s fundraising quiz.

13 teams made up of local businesses and organisations including Bath Rugby, Bath Rugby Foundation and Stone King Solicitors managed to raise £2,000 for good causes in just one night.

Maggie Steel

Adam Lodge Photos by Mervyn Clingan www.takingpictures.com

Andrew Bragg, Mandy Gardner, Moe Rahaman and Tim Westbrook

NUMERO JUNO The new Philip Street bar Juno celebrated its official launch on 26 August with a night of world and crafts beers, slushie cocktails and artisan coffee. Joining the party was recent Olympic silver medallist, the swimmer SiobhanMarie O’Connor, who trains at the University of Bath.

Photos by Sam Short www.soul-media.co.uk

Richie Beaver, Harri Francis and Natasha Edney Matthias Kurth and Siobhan-Marie O’Connor

Tim Derrick and James Donovan

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

Sarah Hawkins and Clare Rhymer

A MAN’S WORLD

DAVID FLATMAN

STYLE IT OUT Flats talks luxurious (second) home interiors on a budget

W

hen someone reveals that they have a holiday home, I instantly judge them to be a swanky old so-and-so.

Life must be good if, instead of staying in a hotel or a rented barn, one actually buys another house. I mean, the luxury. Anyway, we’ve done it. But don’t judge.

You see, this isn’t your classic holiday home. It’s actually an ex-council jobbie on a street that reminds me of the areas into which we knew not to roam as young men finding our way in downtown Maidstone. With not a Waitrose in sight, this particular group of streets is likely still a generation away from achieving that mythical ‘up-and-coming’ status. In fact, one might call it down-and-gone. But we love it.

Holiday homes, unless one is aggressively wealthy, represent stress. Dealing remotely with all the admin that comes with owning a home holds little appeal to me, and neither does a large second mortgage. That’s why we got a cheap one. Mrs F assured me, in those early stages of me saying ‘no’ before she’d even got the words out, that she’d make it loveable on the inside even if it still resembled Coventry in the late 80s from the kerb.

This became quite the challenge for her. It’s one thing arranging the interior of one’s primary residence, it’s quite another doing the same for a part-time home which, due to its location, will never earn you back the cash burned on a high-end renovation. So, Mrs F had a strict budget, and she almost stuck to it. We re-covered old sofas, used forgotten dining chairs from the shed, went hard on white paint and kept it properly simple. Two things on which we

didn’t compromise were lighting and taps. I do detest low-quality taps. Otherwise, though, this is a seriously cheap home interior.

But it’s gorgeous. White-washed floorboards and the odd panelled wall (sounds a bit ‘sauna’ but is actually bright and beautiful), handmade driftwood kitchen doors (on cheapo units), lowmaintenance gardens (Bob next door strims it fortnightly for a fiver), and a minimum of clutter. Truly, this little place proves that spending buckets of money to make a home look and feel lovely is a choice. If your imagination is given time to run, and you’re willing to search the internet for weeks on end just for a better deal on a toilet, you can achieve a huge amount with relatively little.

Admittedly, I indulged myself a little bit and added a couple of nice touches from Brissi (I called them presents for Mrs F – it worked), but I couldn’t resist. Anyway, that’s why Mrs F was in charge of budgets. I can’t be trusted.

What she has managed has revealed a genuine talent. It’s easy to make a few rooms lovely when the pockets are deep and the broadband is quick, but to create an environment every bit as exciting and luxurious in feel with such little outlay is genius. You should really use her for your next place. Except she’s not for hire. Not yet, anyway. Now that said dining chairs and table are gone, she has been given eight quid to make my shed into the manly nirvana for which my soul yearns.

SPENDING BUCKETS OF MONEY TO MAKE A HOME LOOK AND FEEL LOVELY IS A CHOICE

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

The Alternative to Production Line Hairdressing Phylosophie 16 Northumberland Place, Bath 01225 484952 www.phylosophie.com Phylosophie @phylosophiehair phylosophiehair

INTERIORS SPECIAL Luxe metallic accessories and a stripped-back approach are favoured for autumn by AtNo67 Concept Store just outside of Bath

A SEASON of STYLE

There’s an unpolished, raw mood brewing in the world of interiors. It’s a season of light-meetsdark, luxe metallics and rough-around-the-edges styling. Here’s what’s been catching the eye of the city’s experts for AW16…

By L I SA E VA NS 34 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

W

hen we think of autumnal styling, we envision richness and warmth, a depth of colour and fabulous variety of plush textures.

And, yes, this year, opulence and luxuriousness of this ilk is still making waves, but there are also a few surprises in the mix. Whether you’re dreaming of rose goldhued metallics, purposefully imperfect creations, or a touch of the exotic, read on to discover a look, feel or shade that you feel inspired to recreate in your own home this season.

A FRESH APPROACH

The new season has brought with it new interiors businesses which are giving a different flavour to the city. After months of anticipation, we are delighted to see that Graham and Green is opening its doors on Walcot Street next month, and it’s not just one of their shops that’s coming, the entire headquarters is moving here.

“We’re really excited to be able to call Bath home now and can’t wait to open our doors,” says managing director, Jamie Graham. “We’ve taken on a very special building and have spent the last year bringing it back to its former glory. We were instantly drawn to the artisan vibe of Walcot, with all the many fantastic independents, and look forward to being part of the community.

“For autumn/winter,” he adds, referring to what you can expect to see in store. “We’ve been seeing a lot of natural looks and our new collection forms part of this.”

Another business which came to Bath this month and is turning heads with its design studio at Old Walcot School, is the specialist Georgian and Regency design firm Latham Interiors.

Owner Sarah Latham’s interest lies with period properties which have elegance and English classicism at their heart. Her designs enclose many a hidden surprise, especially when it comes to the more seemingly ‘everyday’ items.

“I’ve spent months creating a Narnia-like walk-in wardrobe through which our clients will walk into their secret en suite bathroom which will feature w

WE WERE

COMMISSIONED TO MAKE JAMES BOND’S CHAIR FOR SPECTRE, AND WE HAVE JUST MADE A CHAIR FOR PHILIPPE

PHOTO BY MEL YATES

STARCK

Soon to come to Walcot Street, Graham and Green’s throws and soft furnishings feature delicate, natureinspired floral patterns in calming hues

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

INTERIORS SPECIAL a stunning hand-painted scenic wallpaper by De Gournay depicting Indian elephants,” she says. “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.”

Elsewhere, after four years, Leather Chairs of Bath, owned by Sara and Nick Loxton, has returned to Bath after its time in London.

“We were commissioned to make James Bond’s chair for Spectre, and we have just made a chair for Philippe Starck,” says Nick, whose business is on York Street. “Our chairs can also be found in Kensington Palace as we contributed to the refurbishment in 2012.”

IMPERFECTLY PERFECT

Raw, handcrafted and rough-around-the edges is Lacock’s Forest to Home’s go-to look all year round, but the changing seasons are reflected in the furniture business’s creations too.

Its founders, William Hibbert and Samuel Baker, have a combined 22 years’ experience in design in Bath and are passionate about craftsmanship and all-natural materials.

“Our style centres around us showcasing the beauty of nature’s design,” says William. “We like to celebrate and show off parts that are often overlooked or removed.”

Also a lover of the imperfect style is Emma Rice, artistic director at salvaged interior specialist Owl in the Ivy on Cleveland Place.

“My style is Wabi-Sabi,” says Emma whose salvaged and distressed furniture collection is brought together from as far as Hungary, France and Marrakesh. “It’s a Japanese term that roughly translates as ‘finding the beauty in imperfection’.

It’s often associated with autumn as this is the time when leaves begin to turn brown, and Wabi-Sabi is associated with the passing of time.

“I find the muted colours and the slow descent into a monochromatic winter very soothing,” she adds. “I always favour the colours that nature presents in any season; the russets and mustards, the dark greens of coniferous trees and charcoal grey skies are always my palette for autumn.”

Lacock’s Forest to Home highlights, rather than hides, what some other furniture makers may consider as ‘flaws’ or ‘blemishes’

Instead of trying to overcome autumn’s shorter days with harsh lighting, designers at Rossiters on Broad Street prefer to embrace the changing light with interior décor inspired by it.

“We were delighted to be asked to design two rooms for the new hotel No.15 Great Pulteney,” says Kim Paterson, general manager at Rossiters of Bath. “The rooms, ‘Good Afternoon’ and ‘Good Evening’ are influenced by the changing light of nearby Henrietta Park – glorious during the day and enchanting in the evening.”

While expert in vintage and industrial illumination Gary May – who owns Felix Lighting Specialists on Bartlett Street – says that one of the principal trends right now is for aged-look copper lighting, Sarah at Latham Interiors believes the w 36 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Moody hues, statement lighting and metallic accents feature heavily in Graham and Green’s autumnal home styling

PHOTO BY MEL YATES

LIGHT IT UP

INTERIORS SPECIAL lighting of a room, no matter what time of year, is a key component of comfortability.

“Lighting for me is one of the most important aspect of an interior,” she says. “You can go into a beautifully designed restaurant that is brightly lit and it all falls flat. Interiors don’t need to be super-luxe, they need to be well-planned and wellexecuted whilst looking effortless.”

PEDAL TO THE METAL

Luxe metallics – gold, brass, chrome and copper – can be combined with most interiors schemes, reckons Tracey Ball at Oka Bath on Milsom Street.

The design consultant thinks they brighten up a room and add a touch of timeless allure.

“Mix and match metallics to add a spark of luxury and a dash of magnificence to your home,” she says. “Burnished gold will bring richness and warmth to your scheme, not to mention a hefty dose of glamour.”

Caroline Flack, who co-owns Hestia Soft Furnishings in Holt, agrees and says metal shades are on the up.

“This season we’re promoting layered metallics, particularly copper and rose gold for that warm look,” she says. “Curtain styles are enjoying a revival and our traditional curtain-making skills can adapt with these changes.”

“My favoured shades are rich, chalky creams, golds and musk rose tones, plus raspberry and strawberry hues,” enthuses Carole Roberts, the owner of No Twelve Queen Street in Bath, which deals in antiques, decorative objects and offers a full interior design business. “A beautiful interior creates calmness, happiness, and a great sense of

BURNISHED

GOLD WILL BRING RICHNESS

AND WARMTH TO YOUR SCHEME, NOT TO MENTION A

HEFTY DOSE OF GLAMOUR

The Duresta for Matthew Williamson range – available at Rossiters of Bath – uses an exclusive range of bold fabrics that encapsulate the designer’s celebrated signature aesthetic

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

security for a person. There is nothing better than returning home to your favourite room because of the ambience it gives.”

Arianna Brissi, creative director of Brissi on Milsom Street adds, “There are a lot of warm golds coming through that have transitioned from the catwalks into the interiors world. A return to simplicity features, too. An antidote to the world of fast technology that we all seem to inhabit.”

And Richard Hayes of London Street’s TR Hayes, which celebrated its centenary last year, is seeing mainly steely greys and reflective accessories now.

“Grey is still the colour-of-the-moment and the trend for copper accents is also still a key theme,” he says. “We’ve recently started to stock some great little metal side tables that have created quite a stir.”

“Dark charcoal greys and deep blues are best highlighted with flashes of the ever-popular warmth of copper, and gold and burnished brass,” reckons Vanessa Sayce, owner of The Marmalade House on Bartlett Street. “We specialise in adding gold, silver and copper leaf to our furniture to highlight intricate areas or simply enrich each piece with the bespoke beauty of metallics.”

And John Law, director at Woodhouse & Law on George’s Place agrees that rosy metallic threads are perfect for this time of year as the lustre and depth of colour will add warmth to any interior scheme.

“Metallic elements look great by lamp light,” he says. “They add a whole new level of interest.”

“Copper accents are here to stay,” agrees Kim Marcer, the owner of Ripples Bath on London Road.

“It’s a trend that adds warmth to any setting. It’s important to complement it with other materials; consider using slate grey as this will really make it pop. Gold and black are also big news and will add a touch of industrial luxe to bathrooms.”

PATTERN LOVE

While Caroline at Hestia predicts that bold florals and confident colours will be popular in the coming months, Carole at No Twelve Queen Street is seeing rich damasks, embroidered fabrics and Toile de Jouy designs.

Prints such as paisley and ikat add interest, depth and a touch of the exotic to a scheme, according to Oka Bath’s Tracey, and at Indigo & Wills, which opened on George Street earlier this year, the pattern inspiration comes from the Mediterranean and the East.

“The use of traditional techniques ensure the ancient arts are kept alive,” says Indigo & Wills’ managing director William Fergusson. “Indigo and blue variations are always key for us but we work on a broad colour range and love the industrial vibe of greys mixed with colour and patterns.”

At Rossiters, modern bohemia is a trend that’s taking off. “We’re inspired by Matthew Williamson right now,” says Kim Paterson. “We’re excited to have the collection as Matthew was very selective about which retailers he felt would be appropriate partners for his first venture into furniture.

“Following hugely successful launches at Harrods and Liberty, we will be the first and only retailers to have the collection in the West of England. w

The meticulously crafted Boca Do Lobo Piccadilly cabinet, gilded in golden leaf, is available at Bath’s Woodhouse & Law

INTERIORS SPECIAL “His love of colour and design means no more gloomy rooms but ones with a joyful energy of butterflies and flowers.”

MAGIC TOUCH

“Whilst faux fur throws remain ever-popular, interesting textures such as goat hair and sheepskin will abound this AW16,” says Tracey at Oka. “And saddle leather lends a timeless sophistication to even the most everyday of objects.”

The Marmalade House’s Vanessa goes against the grain and opts for hard, course and cold materials which, she says, when paired with smooth and gentle textures, offset the look.

“Set classical shapes and styles against architectural backgrounds, such as painted bricks, raw wood and subway tiles,” she says. “Then add in quirky artisan ceramics and chunky knits for a homely feel. Roaring log fires with plush sheepskin pouffes or tartan throws and blankets add a country-house style and can be lightened with large soft candles in subtle shades of grey and pastels.”

While rich and striking teals rule the roost at Graham and Green and Oka, Michelle Aitken, a founding partner Verve Living – which is, this month, celebrating its one-year anniversary – on London Road has noticed a trend for inky blues and bottle greens. She says these work equally well on luxe fabrics such as velvet, or teamed with lighter colours in ethnic or geometric patterns. But her best advice? “Stick to the things you love, as an honest home, is never out of date.”

Dark feature walls in charcoal or even black is a perfect trend for winter if you’re thinking of mixing things up a little, reckons Martha Piotrowska, owner of AtNo67 Concept Store just outside Bath.

“One wall in a darker tone looks and feels dramatic and engaging yet fresh,” she says. “It creates a beautiful contrast in a room.”

Hues don’t have to be deep in order to be in keeping with autumn’s opulence, though, as Kirstie Jackson from Pencil Tree, a store on Cleveland Terrace, explains. “I’m very drawn to pale pink and turquoise and I’m a sucker for anything yellow,” she says. “We try not to follow trends rigidly – in fact we try and avoid them.”

“The Gustavian story is strong,” explains John at Woodhouse & Law. “Soft blush pinks are continuing to feature throughout the collections and, at Maison et Objet, cobalt blue is leading the colour pack for September.”

SCANDI CHIC

Martha at AtNo67 Concept Store is a purveyor of Scandinavian home décor and Nordic lifestyle accessories. She says these chic products manifest the Scandi way of living, that is “simple, functional and stylish”.

“I’m a big fan of stark contrast in interiors, enhanced by texture, pattern and clean lines inspired by nature,” she says. “I have seen the Danish concept of hygge popping up recently.

It’s the idea of ultimate wellbeing, surrounded by friends, good food and things you love. In home 40 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO BY MEL YATES

OPULENCE RULES

Find traditional French styles and rich oriental tones at Graham and Green on Walcot Street

MOODY PASTELS SUPPORT THE STATE OF

HIBERNATION OVER THE

COLDER MONTHS

décor terms it translates into cosy milieu with fireplaces, soft textiles and comfy spots in all corners of your home.

“In autumn and winter, moody pastels support the state of hibernation over the colder months and work well with all-white Christmas décor, which I absolutely adore.”

And Arianna at Brissi agrees that clean, simplistic, ageless styles are the way forward.

“We are not big on colour,” she says. “We follow our ethos and our looks have evolved over the years but we stay true to our core. Our palette consists of chalky whites, taupes and greys. We are inspired by the old classic Scandinavian designs, both in shape and in colour.”

“The products I sell are from Finland, Sweden and Denmark,” says Sue Shannon, the owner of Shannon on Walcot Street. “They are mostly iconic brands. My design aesthetic for the new season is one I’d describe as ‘wonderful and timeless’ with lots of classic design.”

“I’m drawn to all things Scandinavian in feel and simplicity,” adds Julie Mason, the owner of Coppice Guild in Bradford on Avon. “I love toned-down dusky colours – a necessary lift as the dark nights draw in. When beautiful interiors are designed to also be carefully considered and practical, this is when you truly change lives.”

Richard at TR Hayes adds, “The Scandi styles are still popular. Ercol have been blazing a trail with their ranges – such as Cosenza which really hits the mark in terms of style and comfort. The Italians are always great for cutting-edge design, and the Calligaris range is a favourite of mine.”

i n t e r i o r s a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

“Tile & Flooring do the ground work to help give your home a unique style to suit you”

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

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

MAKING YOUR HOME YOUR CASTLE With a wealth of experience and a huge range of quality designs, patterns and materials to choose from, TILE & FLOORING BATH has all your surface needs covered

F

or over forty years Tile & Flooring has successfully developed its reputation for providing quality materials and service. It has important and long standing relationships with a wide range of clients from discerning home owners to professionals involved in the construction industry, and continues to experience exciting year on year growth.

Offering the right choice of products and being uncompromising about service is in the company’s DNA, which is why it offers such a wide range of different surface coverings, from bespoke dimensional stone, porcelain, stone tiles, engineered hardwoods or vinyls and carpets.

The brand’s relationships with importers, producers and professional installers run deep. Tile & Flooring – as the only approved dealer in Bath – is especially proud of its long-lasting relationship with UK’s leading tile manufacturer and distributor, Original Style. Original Style specialises in wall and floor tiles which are available from 2,000 independent outlets worldwide. The brand is renowned for the finest materials and craftsmanship offered at competitive

“THE HAND DECORATED TILES ARE BASED ON AUTHENTIC ORIGINAL DESIGNS” prices, with a special focus on British heritage reflected in its Victorian Floor Tile collection and hand-crafted tiles sold under The Winchester Tile Company name.

Originally used to adorn medieval churches, monasteries and the homes of the aristocracy, Victorian tiles certainly evoke a sense of grandeur. Original Style’s own Victorian Floor Tile collection is inspired by the style which became popular in the Victorian era and beyond. The patterns, borders and hand decorated tiles are based on authentic original designs from Victorian and Edwardian times. A love for local design and historic beauty prompted Original Style’s designers to reach beyond English period styles and find inspiration in less familiar lands. This is how the Odyssey range came to life – a collection of dry pressed ceramic tiles inspired by global adventures, travel and architecture found in many different places around the world. For those customers who wish to create a more contemporary home interior Original Style founded its Tileworks and Glassworks ranges

– sleek, modern, large-format tile collections reflecting exciting styling trends, in a multitude of formats, finishes and colours. These porcelain, glass and ceramic tiles are suitable for every taste, location and setting.

Tile & Flooring 1 Mile End, London Road, Bath, Avon BA1 6PT 01225 310561; www.tileandflooring.co.uk

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LE SA N R TIO FO OCA YS EL LA R SP TO DI E DU

Local Designers & Makers T 01225 862268 www.coppiceguild.co.uk KITCHENS | DRESSING ROOMS | HOME OFFICES | MEDIA ROOMS

The Flying Pig Renovation Company

THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE STANDARDS Property Renovation Project Management

Interior Design

Ashley House, 4 Gloucester Road, Bath BA1 7BH Tel 01225 420370 Email andy@flyingpiginbath.co.uk www.flyingpiginbath.co.uk

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1

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1. TEAL THE LOOK

2. FAIREST OF THEM ALL

3. SNUGGLE UP

4. FEET UP

5. CALL ME MAYBE

Slit table, £119 Soon to be available in a host of new colours, this paper-origami inspired creation is both contemporary and innovative by design From Hay, 36-37 Milsom Street, Bath; www.hay.dk

Armorial mirror, £115 Sculptural, strong and sturdy – what’s not to love about this rustic wall mirror shaped in a form reminiscent of an armorial crest?

From India Jane, 20 Milsom Street, Bath; www.indiajane.co.uk

Swedese Lamino chair, £1,695 This sheepskin chair has us inclined to take a supremely soft seat and curl up with a good book From Shannon, 68 Walcot Street, Bath; www.shannon-uk.com

Leather pouffe, £115 Add an artistic and exotic touch to your home with this handcrafted colour-pop footstool made in Morocco From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

Wild & Wolf phone, £34.95 We’re big fans of this replica version of the 1970s style original version of the first phone to use an electronic warbler rather than the traditional bell From Bloomsbury, 15 New Bond Street, Bath; www.bloomsburystore.com

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

7

ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING

6

AUTUMN LUXE

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DUSTY SHADES AND RICH HUES MEET SUMPTUOUS TEXTURES OF PLUSH VELVET AND SOFT GOAT HAIR FOR AUTUMN’S DECEDENT INTERIOR TRENDS 9

10

6. SHINE BRIGHT

7. THROW DOWN

8.BLUSH UP

9. SOFT SPOT

10. FINISHING TOUCH

Abalorio chandelier, £898 Hand-beaded strands of gem-hued wooden baubles recall the culturerich designs of traditional jewellery from Mexico From Anthropologie, 1-4 New Bond Street, Bath; www.anthropologie.com

Sissy by House Doctor rug, £29 Warm up your floor with this traditional kilimpatterned woven rug from a Bath-based online Nordic design store From AtNo67 Concept Store; www.atnumber67.co.uk

Murciana goat hair armchair, £545 East meets west with this deliciously soft, pink-hued goat hair chair with a striking curved oak wood frame From OKA, 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath; www.oka.com

Chateau grey velvet sofa, £2,750 This French-inspired sofa upholstered in luxurious velvet exudes sophistication and elegance From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath (coming soon); www. grahamandgreen.co.uk

Decorative doorknob, £3.99 There’s a beautiful array to choose from – including floral brights and whitewashed iron – but we love this wooden, hand-painted doorknob design most From Vinegar Hill, 16 Milsom Street, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk

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Winner 2014

T h e C u r ta i n E x c h a n g e For the best dressed windows IN BATH

11 Widcombe Parade, Bath, BA2 4JT Tel: 01225 422078 | Email: curtainexchange@live.co.uk

www.curtainexchangebath.co.uk

Kelly will provide you a German kitchen that is beautiful not just to look at, but to be in.

Kelly-marie Hicks, head designer at Homemaker Bath, has inspired so many clients over the last ten years, most of which have come from word of mouth recommendations.

She uses all the latest appliances, storage solutions and materials to suit you giving your kitchen a personal touch. Kelly also has a team who can do everything from building works to straight forward installations.

Take the first step towards your dream kitchen, contact Kelly today.

8 Pulteney Terrace, Bath BA2 4HJ t 01225 481 881 e homemakerdesign@btconnect.com

SULIS MASONRY STONE SPECIALISTS & GENERAL BUILDERS

GENERAL BUILDERS We provide a wide range of general building services including bay window installations and property extensions for customers in Bath and the surrounding areas.

SPECIALIST STONEMASONS Specialist stonemasons in stone masonry and architectural masonry. Including ornamental stonework, stone fireplaces, stone cleaning, walling and supply.

EXTENSIONS & NEW BUILDS We are fully conversant in all of the local conservation areas and are available to offer advice during the planning and design of your extension or new build project.

FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING NEEDS T: 01225 445405 M: 07775 698299 E: info@sulismasonry.co.uk

www.sulismasonry.co.uk

Bath’s leading window furnishing specialist FOR 16 YEARS Aspect Window Styling is a vibrant company who has been specialising in making windows look spectacular for 16 years as an independent family run business.

Our dedicated team will help you select the best products for you and your home. We offer a full service from design to installation from our in-house team.

T. 01225 469 559 E. info@aspectwindowstyling.co.uk W. www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk or visit our showroom 1 Saracen Street, Bath, BA1 5BR

We are proud to be main suppliers of all leading window furnishing suppliers: Luxaflex blinds Gallery dealership for the South West S:Craft – Shuttercraft Shutters Ltd Licensed Master partners Silent Gliss Tracks And our latest brand...

Shadehaus Platinum Partner suppliers for Creation Baumann blind fabrics

Innovative and contemporary architecture, where daylight is the star of the show

sleeping

bathing

dining

lounging

www.batterhammatthewsarchitects.co.uk

01225 851122

bringing the outside in...

cooking

studying 1, Tollbridge Studios, Tollbridge Road, Bath BA1 7DE

WAINSCOT INTERIORS Makers of Handcrafted Architectural Joinery and Interiors

Panelling | Staircases | Libraries & Studies | Doors | Liners | Architrave | Built In Storage

THE BEAUTY OF WOOD THROUGH TRADITIONAL SKILLS www.wainscotinteriors.co.uk

01458 272633

Luxury Flooring & Carpets

Showroom in Chelsea Road, Bath interior harmony flooring 01225 483818 www.interiorharmony.co.uk

Nยบ Twelve Queen Street Bath, Somerset BA1 1HE

PERIOD AND CONTEMPORARY DESIGN DECORATION AND FURNITURE CAROLE ROBERTS BATH 01225 462363 EMAIL interiors@twelvedesign.co.uk WEB: www.twelvedesign.co.uk

Handcrafted fine kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms We offer a completely bespoke service that includes design and fitting, along with a full range of standard products. Our local team of tradesmen cover all aspects of plumbing, electrical, plastering and decorating services.

Visit our showroom located in the centre of Devizes. Open every weekday 9.30am - 5pm and Saturday 10am - 4pm.

11/12 Northgate Street Devizes Wiltshire SN10 1JL Tel: 01380 721772 www.devizesfinekitchens.com

Devizes fine kitchens

FREE ESTIMATES FULL INSTALLATION AND CAD DESIGN SERVICE 1,400 SQFT SHOWROOM WITH FULL DISPLAYS Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 2AD Tel: 01761 419114 Email: enquiries@firenza.co.uk Web: www.firenzaltd.co.uk Opening hours: Mon 12pm - 5pm Tues - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 3pm

SOVEREIGN DAMP PROOFING & CONSTRUCTION LTD We offer a comprehensive service for all kinds of damp proofing, basement waterproofing, timber treatment and specialist replastering.

Tel: 01249 716161 | Tel: 01225 811222 1 Ingoldmells Court, Edinburgh Way, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 9XN www.sovereigndpc.co.uk | scott@sovereigndpc.co.uk

craftsmanship means F OCU S ING ON F INE DETAIL S AND TA K ING THE TI M E TO M A K E EVER Y J OB OUT S TANDING

See Check a Trader and Google Review f o r 5  r at i n g s Opening times M o n d ay – F r i d ay 8.00am – 5.00pm S at u r d ay 9.00am – 12.30pm

O n ly 1 0 minutes from B at h

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Marble Supreme T: 0117 956 3030

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U n i t 8 B r i d g e Roa d

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K i n g s w o o d | B r i s to l | B S 1 5 4 F W | w w w. m a r b l e s u p r e m e . c o m

e: info@marblesupreme.com

Quote ‘BATH LIFE AD’ in store to receive a £50 voucher towards accessories Min £1000 spend

Westside Design Bespoke Kitchen Makers Since 1983 Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5EQ info@westsidedesign.co.uk

Kingfisher Blinds

HELPING YOU FIND THE RIGHT SOLUTION We supply and fit roller blinds, vertical or venetian blinds to suit any room We offer a personal, friendly service from first contact through to the installation of your chosen blinds.

All enquiries welcome.

Kingfisher Blinds, Radstock, Somerset BA3 3ED 01761 434665 07801 059357

www.kingfisher-blinds.com

We have inspirational room sets displaying exclusive brands such as The Original Thomas Crapper, Laura Ashley and designer range Ben De Lisi. We know the art of bathrooms and can help you design yours!

CALL FOR A SITE SURVEY OR VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

Brassmill Lane Trading Estate, Bath BA1 3JF Tel 01225 462727 www.totalbathrooms.co.uk

P R erfect

ooms

INTERIOR DESIGN FOR RESIDENTIAL AND CONTRACT CLIENTS For made to measure beautiful curtains, pelmets, roman blinds, cushions, bedspreads, valances and upholstery.

POP IN AND TAKE A LOOK AT OUR SHOWROOM NEW COFFEE SHOP NOW OPEN Come and browse our new range of fabrics, wallpapers and carpets whilst you enjoy a coffee and a slice of homemade cake!

Mon – Fri 9.00am – 5.00pm | Sat 10am – 4pm Sun - Closed PERFECT ROOMS, SILVER STREET SHOWROOM, SILVER STREET, GASTARD, WILTSHIRE, SN13 9PY Plenty of parking for our customers

WWW.PERFECTROOMS.CO.UK • TEL: 01249 716445 PERFECTROOMS@BTCONNECT.COM

T H E

L O C A L

E X P E R T S

b a t h S A T We offer a full range of satellite, aerial, telephony and CCTV services.

From design and installation through to maintenance and fault-finding.

• Home Cinema Installation

Wooden Flooring and Interior Finishes Specialists in Frome and Bath

• Sky Refusals • Digital Aerials • Foreign Satellite Systems • Wi-Fi, Broadband & Telephony

Authorised retailers for three of the country’s finest Paint and Paper manufacturers.

• IRS Consultancy & Design • Wireless Music Systems • IP Camera Systems

41 Vallis Way, Frome, BA11 3BA 01373 228 388 www.thewoodenflooringstudio.co.uk

APPROVED DEALER

www.bathSAT.com T: 0845 603 6729 • M: 07748 636849 • E: info@bathSAT.com 109 Under Knoll, Peasedown St John, Bath BA2 8TY

“such an attractive, original and beautifully creative space”

HESTIA SO F T F UR NISH INGS

Curtains & Poles Bespoke Blinds Soft Furnishings Fabrics Upholstery

01225 782070 • www.hestia-curtains.co.uk The Old Canteen, The Midlands, Holt, BA14 6RJ

furniture – artworks – accessories

After 4 years in the Chelsea Design Quarter we are back in Bath !

10 York Street, Bath BA1 1NH leatherchairs.co.uk

vintage and contemporary pieces • option to customise to suit • all sourced exclusively in Britain

•

15 walcot buildings. london rd. ba1 6ad free parking opposite and in weymouth street verveliving.uk | 07785 332536

Modern Furniture.

Designed over decades.

Find out more at www.foresttohome.comÂ

ANTIQUE AND MODERN CARPETS BOUGHT, SOLD REPAIRED AND CLEANED 25 YEARS IN BATH LARGEST SELECTION IN THE SOUTH WEST

9 8 W A L C OT S T R E E T, B AT H B A 1 5 B G T E L 0 1 2 2 5 4 6 9 2 4 0 E M A I L C O N TA C T @ H A L I D E N . C O M W W W. H A L I D E N . CO M

Paint workshops | Lampshade making Weekly Knit and Natter Group launching this Autumn See website for details.

ATMOSPHERE BATH is opening a sister shop...

Dimity Button Creative Soft Furnishings

Selling a full range of fabrics alongside haberdashery products but will also be offering a range of "How To" workshops.

Please call into Atmosphere Bath for further details or phone Julie on 01225 461028

10 The Borough Mall, Wedmore, Somerset BS28 4EB T: 07708340750 E: dimitybutton@btinternet.com

HANDMADE ARTISAN RUGS T H AT M A K E A D I F F E R E N C E

COMPLETELY RESTORE YOUR CAST IRON OR PRESSED STEEL BATH TO ITS FORMER GLORY Cost E�fective bath restoration & renovation

at Bookbarn International, Wells Road, Hallatrow, Bristol, BS39 6EX 01761 451 764 katya@orientalrugsofbath.com www.orientalrugsofbath.com

RESURFACING We are able to completely resurface metal baths SCRATCH & ABRASION REPAIRS on acrylic baths & shower trays CHEMICAL CLEANING remove lime scale from the top surface of your bath, basin or WC 18 YEARS EXPERIENCE, COVERS THE SOUTH WEST

Corinium Bath Renovations 01285 658615 Cirencester info@coriniumbathrenovations.co.uk www.coriniumbathrenovations.co.uk

C L E A N I N G R E S T O R AT I O N VA L U AT I O N

Creating Perfect Spaces

Design • Planning • Installation • Construction Orangeries • Conservatories • Glazing www.coastandvale.com Bath 01225 459 574 | Sherborne 01935 872 640 | Marlborough 01672 890 606

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

INTERIORS SPECIAL

DIRECTORY

Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for autumn

Architects, builders and construction BMD Architects 1 Tollbridge Studios, Tollbridge Road, Bath; 01225 851122 www.bmd-architects.com Architects and surveyors with a design focus on natural light and environmental thinking Casa Architects Toll Bridge Road, Bath; 01225 851871; www.casa-architects.co.uk Established Bath-based practice combining original contemporary design with sustainable principles Esmond Murray Architects 21 Van Diemen’s Lane, Bath; 01225 447165; www. esmondmurrayarchitects.com Award-winning Chartered RIBA practice with a new approach to private client residential design, bringing together architecture, interior design, landscapearchitecture and project management The Flying Pig Renovation Company Ashley House, 4 Gloucester Road 01225 420370 www.flyingpiginbath.co.uk Renovating client-owned homes to an exceptional standard, offering innovative design and bespoke craftsmanship, with a commitment to using only the best materials Hetreed Ross Toll Bridge Road, Bath; 01225 851860; www.hetreedross.com Award-winning architects providing a complete range of services including domestic interior design McIntosh DBR A3, Southgate Commerce Park, Commerce Park, Southgate, Frome; 01373 752700 www.mcintoshdbr.co.uk Experts in bespoke luxury new

builds and restoration projects in Somerset and the South West Norton Masonry 38 Long Barnaby, Midsomer Norton, Radstock; 01761 419422 www.nortonmasonryltd.co.uk Stonework specialists and general builders Rock Pools and Spas 86 Westbury Leigh, Westbury 0333 6009001 www.rockpoolsandspas.co.uk Design and servicing of spas and hot tubs Sovereign Damp Proofing 01249 716161 www.sovereigndpc.co.uk Comprehensive service for all kinds of damp proofing Sulis Masonry 212 Whiteway Road, Bath; 01225 445405; www.sulismasonry.co.uk Stone specialists and general builders working throughout the region including Bath, Bristol, Avon, Somerset and Wiltshire.

Bathrooms Bathrooms at No 5 5 The Shambles, Bradford on Avon; 01225 309110 www.bathbathrooms.com Specialists in the supply of bathrooms in Bath and the surrounding areas Corinium Bath Renovations 56 Berry Hill Crescent, Cirencester; 01285 658615 www.coriniumbathrenovations. co.uk Original bath restoration and renovation Ripples Chelsea House, London Road, Bath; 01225 447971; www.ripples. ltd.uk Ripples has been creating award-winning, luxury, designer bathrooms for 24 years

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

Total Bathrooms Brassmill Lane Trading Estate, Bath 01225 462727 www.totalbathrooms.co.uk A specialist in Bette products with a huge range of baths

The Curtain Exchange 11 Widcombe Parade, Bath 01225 422078 www.thecurtainexchange.co.uk A wide range of bespoke and ready-made curtains and blinds

Courses and workshops

Fabric & Flair 10 St Martin’s Park, Marshfield, Chippenham 01225 891844 www.fabricandflair.co.uk Making and fitting beautiful curtains, blinds and accessories for over 20 years

The Marmalade House The Loft, 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath, BA1 2QZ, 01225 445855 www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk Learn how to paint furniture at their popular Annie Sloan courses

Curtains, blinds, shutters and soft furnishings Aspect Window Styling 1 Saracen Street, Bath 01225 469559 www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk Blinds, shutters, awnings, curtains, poles and accessories Atmosphere Bath 19 Broad Street, Bath 01225 461028 www.atmospherebath.co.uk High quality French and Spanish curtains and fabrics Sumptuous teals and gold accessories are two of this season’s go-to trends

Hestia Soft Furnishings The Midlands, Holt 01225 782070 www.hestia-curtains.co.uk Hestia create beautifully designed handmade curtains and blinds.

Offering a bespoke, hand-sewn service to include lined and interlined curtains, pelmets, blinds, headboards, cushions and a range of accessories Just Shutters 01225 302599 www.justshutters.co.uk Plantation shutter specialists Kingfisher Blinds Radstock; 01761 434665

Central Bath showroom for natural stone tiles, flooring and stone bathware

01225 330124 www.bear-interiors.co.uk British-made, custom-built kitchens and storage and contemporary furnishings, flooring and accessories

PHOTO BY MEL YATES

Oriental Rugs of Bath 1 Hallatrow Business Park, Wells Road, Hallatrow 01761 451764 www.orientalrugsofbath.com Rugs, kilims and various pieces of furniture

A subdued colour palette at Graham and Green on Walcot Street

www.kingfisher-blinds.com Family-run business based in Radstock. Established over 30 years ago, offering a personal, friendly service from first contact through to the installation of your chosen blinds

Fireplaces Mendip Fireplaces The Old Mill, Mill Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath, 01225 722706 www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk Fireplace, stove and chimney specialists with an extensive range of stunning open fires, woodburning and gas stoves, cookers and fire surrounds Rudloe Stoneworks Leafield Stoneyard, Potley Lane, Corsham; 01225 816400 www.rudloe-stone.com Supply and install wood-burning stoves, electric/gas fires and Bath stone fireplaces

Flooring and carpets Bath Contract Flooring 4 Kingsmead Square, Bath 01225 471888 www.bathcontractflooring.co.uk Boniti Dunsdon Road, West Littleton Road, Chippenham 01225 89200 www.boniti.com Stone flooring, bespoke furniture, custom kitchens

Broadleaf Timber 134-136 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 463464 www.broadleaftimber.com Solid wooden floors, plank and parquet, oak flooring, made-tomeasure internal and external oak doors, staircases and joinery Carpets and Flooring by Ben Rule 9 Bulrush Place, Staverton, Trowbridge; 07875 701860 www.carpetsbybenrule.co.uk Covering the South West area, Carpets and Flooring by Ben Rule offers a free estimating, planning and sample service Capitol Carpets of Bath 120-122 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 333341 www.thecarpet.co.uk A range of affordable carpet and stone flooring Haliden Oriental Carpets 98 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 469240; www.haliden.com Antique oriental carpets, Persian rugs, tribal weavings and antique turkmen carpets Interior Harmony Flooring 5A Chelsea Road, Bath 01225 483818 www.interiorharmony.co.uk Specialists for vinyl, carpet and hardwood flooring, floor sanding and wood floor renovation Mandarin Stone 15-16 Broad Street, Bath; 01225 460033; www.mandarinstone.com

Brissi 38 Milsom Street, Bath 01225 461145 www.brissi.com Homeware, furniture, lighting and mirrors

Tile & Flooring Bath 1 Mile End, London Road West, Bath; 01225 310561 www.tileandflooring.co.uk A large range of wall tiles, floor tiles and wood, laminate and stone floor coverings. Guaranteed tile fitting

Dible & Roy Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon 01225 862320 www.dibleandroy.co.uk Fabrics, flooring and furniture at their two-storey showroom

William Rose & Company 41 Vallis Way, Frome; 01373 228388 www.thewoodenflooringstudio. co.uk Traditional family-run business specialising in the supply, installation and restoration of wooden flooring from a selection of hundreds of different styles and materials

Furniture, interiors and homeware shops

At No 67 6-7 Prospect, Kingsdown, Corsham; 01225 938059 www.atnumber67.co.uk Scandinavian home accessories Bartlett Street Antiques Centre 8 Bartlett Street, Bath; 01225 487888; www. bartlettstreetantiques centre.com An ever-changing array of fine quality antiques

Bear Interiors 20 Wellsway, Bath

The Framing Workshop 80 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 482748 www.theframingworkshop.com Box framing, glass and perspex boxes, hand-finished and gilded frames and more Graham & Green 92 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 418300 www.grahamandgreen.co.uk Inspiring range of super stylish interiors and gifts. Beautiful handpicked products from the famous London store

Article 3 Bartlett street, Bath; 01225 460189; www.articlebath.com Artisan homewares and seasonal scents. Handmade candles, fresh and dried floristry, linens, ceramics, cards and gifts

The Bath Framer 7 Walcot Buildings London Road, Bath 01225 920210 www.thebathpictureframer.co.uk High quality framing services

The Fig Store 76 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 428031 www.thefigstore.com Stylish homewares, linens, industrial lighting, glassware and vintage furniture

Homefront Interiors 10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath 01225 571711 www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk New, vintage finds, handmade, sustainable, reclaimed and recycled homewares and decorative interiors pieces and gifts Indigo and Will’s 3 George Street, Bath 01225 445511 www.indigoandwills.com Design lifestyle and home interiors company offering handmade artisan products Leather Chairs of Bath 10 York Street, Bath 01225 447920 www.leatherchairs.co.uk Offering new, handmade-inw England leather chairs

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INTERIORS SPECIAL and sofas and restored antique upholstered furniture, since 1988 Leekes Beanacre Park, Melksham 0845 050 8240 www.leekes.co.uk Quality furniture, electricals, home accessories and more The Modern Art Buyer 01225 839834 www.modernartbuyer.com Affordable art from today’s most exciting artists. Contemporary paintings, prints and photography Oka 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath 01225 443074 www.okadirect.com 4,000 square foot interiors haven in the heart of Bath Old Bank Antiques Centre 14/17 and 20 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath 01225 469282 www.oldbankantiquescentre.com Antiques and decorative items One Two Five Gallery 4 Abbey Green, Bath, 07803033629 www.carolewaller.co.uk Paintings and ceramics Owl in the Ivy 4 Cleveland Place, Bath 07966 788070 www.owl-in-the-ivy.myshopify.com Beautiful salvaged interiors Pencil Tree 5 Cleveland Place, Bath 01225 427008 www.penciltree.co.uk Antique furniture Store Perfect Rooms, Interiors and Upholstery Silver Street, Gastard, Corsham 01249 716455 www.perfectrooms.co.uk Fabrics, carpets, wallpaper, furniture, homeware and gifts Rossiters 38-41 Broad Street, Bath 01225 462227 www.rossitersofbath.com Rossiters offers furniture, accessories, fabrics, plus an interior design service Verve Living 15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath 07785 332536

www.verveliving.uk An interiors space that fosters creativity and craftsmanship combining hands-on styling and sourcing services with furniture, artworks and homewares, all sourced and created in Britain

Furniture makers chCarpentry Unit 8, Stockwood Farm, Pylle, Near Sheton Mallet 07703976707 www.chcarpentry.net Quality carpentry and joinery to the South West Forest to Home 21 The Beeches, Shaw, Wiltshire, 07792302327 www.foresttohome.com Uniquely beautiful pieces of handmade furniture, sourced from natural wood – oak, yew and ash trees Hawker Joinery North End, Batheaston, Bath 01225 858233 www.hawker-joinery.co.uk The oldest established joinery business in Bath, with a reputation for quality service and workmanship. Specialising in doors, interiors and cabinetry Wainscot Interiors Unit 3, Canvin Court, Somerton Business Park, Bancombe Road, Somerton 01458 272633 www.wainscotinteriors.co.uk Extensive experience in the manufacture, finishing and installation of period architectural joinery, oak panelling and bespoke furniture

Home entertainment Bath Sat Peasedown St John, Bath; 0845 603 6729; bathsat.com Satellite and aerial installation.

Specialists in difficult locations and multi-room set ups Moss of Bath 45 St James’ Parade, Bath; 01225 331441; www.mossofbath.co.uk Long-serving, independent TV and hi-fi retailer

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Get ahead of the curve with your furniture with pieces such as these

by Maison Valentina, available at Bath’s Woodhouse & Law

Interior design Clair Strong Interior Design Ltd Walcot Studio, Old Orchard, 88a Walcot Street, Bath 01225 426905/07855 797311 www.clairstrong.co.uk Innovative design for commercial and residential settings both large and small Latham Interiors 6 Old Walcot School, Bath 01225 420279 www.lathaminteriors.co.uk Georgian and Regency style interior design for period properties No Twelve Queen Street 12 Queen Street, Bath 01225 462363 www.twelvedesign.co.uk Truly personal design service focusing on private residential, hotel and commercial work RACS Interiors RACS Group House, Three Horseshoes Walk, Warminster, Wiltshire 0345 604 0571 www.racsinteriors.com Commercial office design company bringing understanding of modern workplace spaces to projects

Woodhouse & Law 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath 01225 428072 www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk Full interior design service; will advise on, and source, fabrics, furniture, bathrooms and kitchens

Interior styling Catriona Archer 07823 884945 www.catrionaarcher.com Professional, affordable styling for residential and business interiors. Designed to make the most of your existing items, storage and space

Kitchens The Bath Kitchen Company 22 Hensley Road, Bath 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk Family business designing unique, beautiful and functional kitchens for over 20 years Ben Argent Design 01225 448330 www.benargentdesign.com Beautiful bespoke kitchens designed to inspire Cheverell Wood Cheverell, Hopton Park

w

INTERIORS SPECIAL Waller Road, Devizes 01380 722722 www.cheverellwood.co.uk Craftspeople who specialise in the design, manufacture and installation of bespoke wooden kitchens, bathrooms, libraries and bedrooms Coppice Guild 28 Coppice Hill, Bradford on Avon 01225 862268 www.coppiceguild.co.uk Designing and supplying bespoke kitchens and interiors Devizes Fine Kitchens 11-12 Northgate Street, Devizes 01380 721772 www.devizesfinekitchens.com Dedicated to the design and production of high quality bespoke kitchens and craft furniture Firenza Kitchens and Bathrooms Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton, Radstock 01761 419114 www.firenzaltd.co.uk Experts in the design, supply and installation of kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms Formosa Kitchens 32 Silver Street, Bradford on Avon 01225 868877 www.formosakitchens.co.uk Designing, supplying and installing quality kitchens Hobsons Choice London Road, Bath 01225 433511 www.hobsonschoice.uk.com Dedicated to kitchen manufacturer bulthaup, complemented by Carl Hansen furniture

Go for the rough-luxe effect with furniture and accessories from Bath’s Woodhouse & Law

www.wearepapilio.co.uk Bespoke kitchen designers transforming environments into inspirational spaces Splinter Works 01225 464957 www.splinterworks.co.uk Luxury kitchen design blending artistic forms and materials with practical and social requirements Stephen E Graver Edington Road, Steeple Ashton 01380 871746 www.stephengraver.com Bespoke kitchen, bathroom and furniture design

Homemaker Design 8 Pulteney Avenue, Bath 01225 481881 www.myhomemaker.co.uk Contemporary kitchens at competitive prices

Westside Design Lansdown Road, Bath 01225 864260 www.westsidedesign.co.uk Kitchens, cabinet makers and joiners

Intoto Saracen Street, Bath 01225 335600 www.intoto.co.uk Inspirational kitchens and living spaces

Lighting

Papilio The Coach House, Hapsford House, Frome 01373 466 713

Antique Textiles and Lighting Lansdown Road, Bath; 01225 310795; www.antiquesofbath.com Award-winning antique lighting shop Felix Lighting 6 Bartlett Street, Bath 01225 315310

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www.felixlightingspecialists.co.uk Vintage, industrial lights

Radiators Reclaimed Radiators 07540 978408 info@reclaimedradiators.co.uk A comprehensive range of antique cast iron radiators

Windows and conservatories Clearglaze Windows 32 Shaftesbury Road, Oldfield Park, Bath, 01225 425211 www.clearglazewindows.co.uk Elegant, energy efficient aluminium windows and conservatories, solid roof systems and secure core composite doors Coast & Vale Windows Unit 2 Sunnyside, High Street Yetminster, Sherborne 01935 872 640 www.coastandvale.com Design, Build and create perfect spaces, specialising in hardwood and aluminium orangeries, windows and doors

Permaframe Southgate, Frome; 01373 452022 www.permaframe.co.uk 25 years’ experience in the design and installation of bespoke conservatories, orangeries, windows and doors, replacement double glazing windows and doors

Worktops and surfaces Hobbs Marble & Granite Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton 01761 412934 www.hobbsmarbleandgranite. co.uk Granite, marble, slate, travertine and quartz products Marble Supreme Unit 8 Bridge Road, Bristol 0117 956 3030 www.marblesupreme.com Bristol-based supplier of granite, marble and quartz stone worktops and flooring The Marble Works of Bath Locksbrook Yard, Upper Bristol Road, Bath 01225 780062 www.marbleworksofbath.com Marble and granite consultants, designers and suppliers.

Original cast iron radiators, lovingly restored and ready to plumb straight into your exisiting central heating system.

We are a local Bath-based business with a huge choice of stock available now.

Call David Lucas on 07540 978 408

www.reclaimedradiators.co.uk

Music/theatre/film/more

LAY OF THE LAND

Fred Cuming is considered one of the most important ‘figurative’ British artists alive and has inspired many artists over the decades with his work found in many collections including the Royal Academy and the Guinness Collection.

At 86, and still painting, he attributes his love of landscape to his first experiences of seeing the countryside when he was evacuated from London during the Blitz; the beauty and drama being such a stark contrast to the built-up, urban surrounds he’d always known. And so powerful was that impact, he has since devoted much of his artistic life to capturing the majesty of the Southern English coastline.

The Fred Cuming exhibition can be seen at Adam Gallery, 13 John Street, Bath from 24 September – 17 October; www.adamgallery.com

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17 September – 29 October

Felicity Kendall plays a prim chaperoning spinster in A Room With A View at Theatre Royal Bath; Sarah Ingleby MacKenzie’s Carnival sculpture can be seen at David Simon Contemporary; Formula One legend Damon Hill will be in Bath on 21 September talking about his new autobiography Watching the Wheel

Exhibitions U N TI L 3 0 S E P T E M BE R

BATH SKYLINES An exhibition of originals and giclee prints from originals by local artist Nick Cudworth.

Featuring many images that inspired Nick during his walks along The Bath Skyline, and also the incredible views from within the city. The Nick Cudworth Gallery; www.nickcudworth.co.uk U N TI L 1 O C TO B E R

SHOWTIME AT THE CIRCUS Roll up for a humorous, lively, thrilling, and at times melancholy, exhibition of paintings, marquetry constructions and ceramics by three different artists – Bridget Moore and Steven Hubbard and Claire Loder. David Simon Contemporary; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com

U N TI L 1 OCTOBER

THE REMARKABLE MISS BRETON This exhibition celebrates the life and works of Victorian archeologist, artist, explorer and Bathonian Adela Breton, who is best known for her detailed watercolour copies of the wall paintings of Mexican temples.

Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution; www.brlsi.org

U N TI L 2 OCTOBER

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

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UNTIL 2 O C TO BER

CATTLE PAINTNGS See a remarkable collection of Bath-based artist Joanne Cope’s vivid portraits of cattle, which have earned her local, national and international acclaim thanks to their colour, expression and texture. 28 Milsom Street; www.joannecope.com UNTIL 10 O C TO BER

URBAN ART Rostra Gallery’s current exhibition explores how city life influences the art world and continues to be a productive source of inspiration for many artists. Dan Baldwin, Clare Halifax, Sean Alexander and Anna Marrow have created paintings and screen prints that celebrate urban architecture, everyday materials, street art and graffiti. Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk

UNTIL 13 O CT O B ER

1ST WORLD WAR ACTS OF KINDNESS This exhibition reflects upon the day-to-day life at the Bath War Hospital and offers the opportunity to explore the concept of compassionate community support and the comfort that this brought to recovering soldiers, as well as insight into how such relationships support treatment and wellbeing. RUH Bath; www.artatruh.org UNTIL 13 O CT O B ER

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 UNTI L 3 0 O C T O B E R

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

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 2 4 SE PTE MBER - 17 O C TO BER

FRED CUMING RA Fred Cuming is highly respected in the art world, and at 86 is probably one of the most important ‘figurative’ British artists alive and has inspired many artists over the decades. The exhibition features his range of work from Venetian scenes, to British coastal landscapes and still life paintings.

For more see page 81. Adam Gallery; www.adamgallery.com

UNTI L 2 7 N O V E MBE R

KENNETH ARMITAGE This major, retrospective exhibition features over 65 sculptures in bronze and plaster together with paintings and drawings from all phases of Armitage’s career. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk UNTI L 2 7 N O V E MBE R

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 fascinating exhibition. Museum of Bath Architecture; www. museumofbatharchitecture.org.uk

UNTI L 1 1 D E C E MBE R

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

UNTI L 1 2 F E B RUA RY 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

8 - 3 1 OCTOB ER

MOMENTS IN TIME Capturing character, humour and life, this solo exhibition of new bronze sculpture by Sara InglebyMacKenzie portrays the female figure in everyday activities. Some pieces are patinated in striking colour, such as Carnival, others finished in more traditional tones. In this show we see elegant bronze figures of ladies of style and attitude across a variety of very different scales from eight inches to five feet tall. David Simon Contemporary; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com 8 - 3 1 OCTOB ER

STUDIO TO SHORE Working with raw pigment mixed with oil onto canvas, Jackie Philip paints with an immediate and direct approach, creating a rich tapestry of colour and luminosity of light. This solo exhibition, her first in Bath, features her latest paintings of still life subjects and landscapes of the Scottish Inner Hebrides.

David Simon Contemporary; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com

Plays/Shows 2 8 SE PTE MBER - 8 O C TO BER

A ROOM WITH A VIEW English rose Lucy Honeychurch is touring Italy with her prim spinster cousin Charlotte Bartlett as chaperone, played by Theatre Royal favourite and national treasure Felicity Kendall. Charlotte stops Lucy fraternising with the lower-class Mr Emerson and his

Top: Indie folk band Stornoway play at Komedia on 6 October; Sean Alexander’s Let’s Make a Plan is part of the Urban Art exhibition at the Rostra Gallery

son George, but she soon finds out she can’t control everything. £35.50-£19.50. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 12 - 22 O C TO BER

13 - 15 O CT O B ER

STEPPING OUT Amanda Holden heads one of the starriest casts ever to have stepped out on the Theatre Royal’s stage, and includes Angela Griffin, Tracy-Ann Oberman, Tamzin Outhwaite and Nicola Stephenson. This wonderfully funny and heart-warming comedy charts the lives of seven women and one man, each attempting to tap their troubles away at a weekly dancing class £40-£29.

Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

MURDER, SHE DIDN’T WRITE Returning after a highly-acclaimed and popular run earlier this year as part of the Bath Comedy Festival, Degrees of Error allow you to unleash your literary prowess to create an original and hilarious improvised murder mystery.

The Mission Theatre; £12; www.missiontheatre.co.uk

Music 23 SEP T EM B ER

THE BOWIE COLLECTIVE From Space Oddity to Let’s Dance, this is a rare treat for Bowiefanatics as well as the Bowiecurious, as a locally-based group of talented artists get together to w

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celebrate the legendary sounds and vision of the late David Bowie. 7.30pm, £15. Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 23 S E P T E M B E R

DEAN FRIEDMAN The talented American singer/ songwriter with Billboard hits and a special relationship with British band Half Man, Half Biscuit, brings his multi-faceted, lyrically adept New York quirky sounds to Bath. 8pm, £25. The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk 24 S E P T E M B E R

BATH PHILHARMONIA Vaughan Williams’ pastoral oboe concerto was written during the years of World War II. A poignant and beautiful piece, it reflects on a time before war. Ravel’s La Tombeau de Couperin is inspired by friends lost in the Great War, yet is full of wit and charm. The concert concludes with Mozart’s bright and monumental Jupiter’ Symphony. A stunning treat with Jason Thornton as conductor and Victoria Braun on oboe, 7.30pm £25. Wiltshire Music Centre; www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk 26 S E P T E M B E R

NORMA This is a livestream from the Royal Opera House of Antonio Pappano conducting an all-star cast featuring Joseph Calleja in a new production of Bellini’s operatic masterpiece. With English subtitles. 7.15pm, £15.

Wiltshire Music Centre; www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk 29 S E P T E M B E R

KAZ HAWKINS Belfast-blues singer Kaz Hawkins is back in Bath after touring the UK venues and festivals with her new album Feelin’ Good featuring eight original songs and a new take on two vintage favourites.

8pm, £10. www.chapelarts.org 6 OCTOBER

STORNOWAY Alternative, indie folk band Stornoway return with their new album Bonxie, full of uplifting folk and electronica, which went straight into the UK Top 20 on release, with a slew of critical acclaim and stellar reviews. 7pm, £16. Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

It’s an all-star cast including Amanda Holden, Angela Griffin and Nicola Stephenson taking to the stage at the Theatre Royal Bath for a brand new production of the Richard Harris’s heartwarming and humorous play Stepping Out 2 0 OCTOBE R

THE SMYTHS After a successful eleven years and over 500 shows, this acclaimed band are seasoned performers who redefine the word ‘tribute’ and instead present the music with love, passion and dedication to honour and respect the original Smiths. 7pm, £12.

Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 2 8 OCTOBE R

THE MUSICAL BOX Licensed and supported by Genesis and Peter Gabriel, Montreal-based Genesis tribute The Musical Box recreates the iconic show featuring music from the prog pioneers 1973 album Selling England by the Pound.

Original and replica costumes, props and lighting from the 1974 tour, bring Genesis’s eccentric performances back to life again with giant sunflowers, bat wings, gladiators and double necked guitars. 7pm, £32.50. The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

Family fun 2 1 - 2 5 SE PTE MBER

WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT Little Angel Theatre brings Michael Rosen’s thrilling and funny adventure to life in this entrancing puppetry production with music. £8.50/£7.50. the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

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24 SEP TEMBER

CREATE: STORIES Led by dancer and educator Laura Street, Create: Stories is an interactive workshop designed to fire the imagination and inspire the creation of exciting new worlds to explore. These sessions incorporate music and movement, and with a different story each month, our little (and big) storytellers will bring the characters to life. Suitable for ages 5-8 years old. 10.30am11.30am, £5/£3. The Edge Arts; www.edgearts.org 24 - 25 SEP TEMBER

LIVING HERITAGE’S GAME AND COUNTRY FAIR The annual event returns for a weekend celebration of rural life with added attractions alongside established favourites. Native and more exotic birds of prey star in the Falconry Village; the Craft Village features both contemporary and traditional arts and crafts; the ‘Food Glorious Food’ section lines up chefs’ demonstrations and regional producers; and the ‘World of Dogs’ element rolls out with working dog contests and fun dog show in the main arena. £13/£4. Bowood House & Gardens; www.bowood.org 1 - 9 O C TO BER

BATH CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FESTIVAL The festival, which is the largest dedicated children’s book festival in Europe, and presents over 80 public, ticketed events and an

extensive programme of events in school is celebrating its 10th birthday. Among the illustrious literary lineup attending are David Walliams, Liz Pichon, astronaut Chris Hadfield, Chris Riddell, Olympic cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, Malorie Blackman, Simon Mayo and former children’s laureate Michael Morpurgo. For more information about pricing and venues, please visit www.bathfestivals.org.uk 3 - 7 O C TOB ER

THE DRAGON’S DENTIST Local author John Mclay, playwright Tom Morris and illustrator Martin Brown have collaborated with the Next Stage Theatre Company to bring The Dragon’s Dentist to the stage. Little Harry wants to be a knight, his timid horse, Oats, tries to be brave and Eric the Dragon hopes to be fierce, but has painful toothache. £8. The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk 14 - 16 O C T O B ER

MAVIS SPARKLE With a magician for a father and a stargazer for a mother, it’s no wonder there’s more to Mavis than meets the eye in this cosmically delightful tale. £8.50/£7.50. the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 22 O C TO B ER

BATH GEEK FEST As we all know geek is the new chic and this is a fine celebration w

Sandra Porter - Symbiosis An exhibition exploring the symbiotic relationship of prints, drawings, collages and paintings.

Private view: Wednesday 28 September 6-8.30pm RSVP: v.rose@dauntseys.org Exhibition Open: 28 September - 19 October 2016, contact for visiting times The Gallery at Dauntsey's, West Lavington, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 4HE Sandra Porter is a contemporary abstract artist who creates a series of images that are similar but not the same. Pieces differ; reflect each other yet also work independently.

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of all things geeky in the An American Toy Story exhibition.

There’s special guests, stalls, talks, and lots more from the world of comics, TV, films, games, YouTube, and toys. 11am- 5pm.

Price included with gardens admission. 11am-5pm.

American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org

Other U N TI L 3 0 S E P T E M BE R

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 Fountain, Bath Abbey; www.showofstrength.org.uk

2 1 SE PTE MBE R

DAMON HILL The F1 superstar talks about his courageously honest and hugely rewarding autobiography Watching the Wheel in which he tells the story of his journey through the last golden era of motor racing when he took on the greats including Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher, and emerged victorious as World Champion in 1996. 7.30pm, £10/£20. Christ Church, Julian Road; www.toppingbooks.co.uk 2 3 SE PTE MBE R

ANTIQUES VALUATION DAY Lowden Garden Centre is hosting an Antiques Valuation Day with Bargain Hunt and Flog It‘s Kate Bliss to raise money for Cancer Research UK, where visitors can obtain professional valuations of their antiques for a fee of £3 per item or £5 for two. 10am-3pm.

Lowden Garden Centre; www.lowdengardencentre.com 2 4 - 2 5 SE PTE MBER

18 S E P T E M B E R

MEMORY WALK This is Bath’s first ever Memory Walk, which is the Alzheimer’s Society’s flagship fundraiser.

More than 2,500 walkers are expected to join the event at Bath Recreation Grounds with the aim of raising £150,000. All the money raised from the event goes towards providing vital care and support services for people living with dementia now and funding research projects to ultimately find a cure. For more information and details, visit www.memorywalk.org.uk 19 S E P T E M B E R

HOW TO WIN A BATH LIFE AWARD SEMINAR This free-to-attend event is an opportunity to learn exactly what the Bath Life Awards judges are looking for from a winning local business submission. 10am 12pm; The Gainsborough; www.eventbrite.co.uk

THE BATH FOOD FESTIVAL This festival feasting village at Bath Racecourse is a first and will feature food and drink from up to 50 stallholders, including regional produce from local producers such as gourmet burgers, retro ice creams and artisan beers. There’s also cookery demonstrations, storytelling, face-painting and games. 10am-5pm, £10/£5. www. fantasticbritishfoodfestivals.com 2 6 - 2 7 SE PTE MBER

1940S WEEKEND AT THE AVON VALLEY RAILWAY A weekend of vintage fun as Avon Valley Railway take a light-hearted look at what life was like during WW2 as they celebrate the 70th anniversary of VE Day. Activities include 1940s beauty makeovers, food stalls, live music, steam engines and a guest appearance from Winston Churchill. Avon Valley Railway; www.avonvalleyrailway.org 1 - 9 OCTOBE R

19 S E P T E M B E R

ADBLOCKAPOCALYPSE 2 Interested in websites, content, advertising, marketing? Then this special Creative Bath event really is a must-attend with a panel of industry experts discussing the challenge of online ad blocking.

6pm-8pm, £10. Igloo, The Abbey Hotel; www.creativebath.org

GREAT BATH FEAST The Great Bath Feast is a melting pot of wonderful flavours and lively personalities, celebrating all things food such as cakes, ale, gourmets, gastro pubs, veggie curries and city cocktails. Events include a Japanese sake tasting evening at the Holburne and an 18th century style breakfast

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Graham Norton visits The Forum on 7 October to discuss his debut novel; Children’s classic We’re Going On A Bear Hunt comes to Theatre Royal Bath

in the elegant surroundings of No.1 Royal Crescent. See page 102 more more, and for more information visit www. greatbathfeast.co.uk 4 O C TO BER

CREATIVE BATH: BUSINESS BREAKFAST The Creative Bath Business Breakfasts provide an important forum for senior-level discussion about current opportunities and challenges in the creative sector. Along with the monthly opportunity for networking, there are round table discussions.

8am - 10am, £10. Igloo, The Abbey Hotel; www.creativebath.org 7 O C TO BER

AN EVENING WITH GRAHAM NORTON Graham Norton will be interviewed by writer Viv Groskop about his eagerly awaited debut novel Holding, which is set in a small seeminglyinnocent Irish town where

long buried secrets and rivalries to come to light. 7pm, £20. The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk 7 O C TO B ER

INSIDE NEW ORDER WITH PETER HOOK Legendary bassist Peter Hook is interviewed by Creative Bath chairman Greg Ingham about his no-holds barred, comprehensive account of the fascinating history of New Order. Turn to page 91 for more. 8pm, £10/£20.

Christ Church, Julian Road; www.toppingbooks.co.uk 21 O C TO B ER

RUH BIG BAKE SALE Channel 4’s The Fabulous Baker Brothers, Tom and Henry are on board as Official Ambassadors for Ted’s Big Bake Off and visiting the RUH to officially open the RUH Big Bake Sale, which marks the close of the fundraising week across Bath, Somerset and Wiltshire.

Turn to page 111 for more, and for more information visit www. foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk

nick cudworth gallery

Caterpillar Skyline Signed Giclee Prints from Original Oil Paintings – various sizes BATH

SKYLINES

1 – 30 September

Inspired by walking the Bath Skyline and views from within the city and surrounding area

5 London Street (top end of Walcot Street), Bath BA1 5BU tel 01225 445221 / 07968 047639 gallery@nickcudworth.com www.nickcudworth.com

Peter Hayes has now been working in his Bath studio on Cleveland Bridge for over 30 years. In recent times he has escaped the winter months, travelling to India where he has set up workshop/studio and developed a new body of work. With this new environment he has managed to combine new and interesting materials into his sculptural work . Visitors are welcome. The studio is open Mon - Fri 10am - 4pm or by appointment.

Peter will be holding an open Studio Saturday 24th September 2016 10.00am - 8.00pm

a d ve r ti s i n g feat u r e a r t

The Big Picture

Cattle are taking over the High Street for a couple of weeks this month. Bath-based artist Joanne Cope – a regular exhibitor in and around town – has secured a space on Milsom Street in which to house her latest collection of paintings

H

ere in the West Country, herds of cattle are to be seen again and again grazing and chewing cud in the landscape that surrounds us. They are comforting to see and invoke a kind of meditative tranquility.

Joanne Cope’s cattle portraits stir up the same feelings; most of her subjects gaze out at the viewer, some looking inquisitive and soft; others strong and challenging. Viewed collectively these beautifully crafted paintings

“Each piece seems to reveal the inner character of the animal portrayed” create an eerie feeling with their traditional portrait poses and matter-of-fact gazes, often turned directly back at the viewer.

Each piece seems to reveal the inner character of the animal portrayed, and Joanne’s use of a subdued palette and dramatic lighting brings a sense of theatre and grandeur to these endearing animals.

Cope has admirably succeeded in presenting these animals as individuals.

Framed and grouped in an area by themselves, a cluster of small colour drawings give you an idea of the starting point for some of Joanne’s past commissions.

Constantly looking for the right angle, Cope’s compositions take shape with the help of photographs, sketches and notes in her diary.

Joanne sketches the final piece onto canvas and begins to build up the finished artwork using layers of paint.

Although it is her usual practice to work on a large scale, Joanne also has some lovely middle sized and smaller works on offer. If cattle aren’t your cup of tea, there are also impressive paintings of red stags and lively studies of hares which hold their own in a

show that is predominantly dedicated to cattle.

Viewers will surely pick their favourites, undoubtably finding some more charming than others. One thing is certain though: it’s hard to remain indifferent to the animals immortalised in these pictures. The show is on for two weeks only – don’t miss it.

Cattle Paintings by Joanne Cope 19 September– 2 October 28 Milsom St, Bath BA1 1DG Tel: 01225 322 962 or 07958 703 438 www.joannecope.com

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PHOTO CREDIT TO JULIEN LACHAUSSÉE

MUSIC

“HOW DOES IT FEEL..?”

Two years after the mordant darkness of Love Will Tear Us Apart created by a prematurely old-looking band in serious trenchcoats came the era-defining Blue Monday – the biggest-selling 12-inch single of all time. From private, distracted, introverted Joy Division to social, happy (well, happy-ish) New Order with a dance record.

Piquantly, even success came freighted with failure. The bespoke Blue Monday 12” sleeves, diecut with a silver inner sleeve with Pete Savile’s artwork cost more than the band made from each sale. The bigger the hit – and it was huuuge – the more they lost.

And, over 30 years on, that opening line again now sounds like it’s about something else: “How does it feel to treat me like you do?”

CODA “…as a musician, I have untold respect for [Bernard Sumner].

He’s a brilliant guitarist and a great producer. But I couldn’t spend any more time with him, not another second; I wanted nothing more to do with him.”

Peter Hook, Substance, 2016 “And resentment rides high But emotions won’t grow…

Love, love will tear us apart again”

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Off the HOOK The visionary and volatile Joy Division and New Order founder member Peter Hook is in Bath next month for a unique Toppings and Creative Bath talk.

GREG INGHAM sets the scene...

“When routine bites hard And ambitions are low And resentment rides high But emotions won’t grow And we’re changing our ways, taking different roads Then love, love will tear us apart again Love, love will tear us apart again” All that we experience shapes us. Each conversation, friendship or song burrows into us.

Whether you remember Love Will Tear Us Apart from back in the day or have heard it since in films or clubs or at gigs, you’ll know it as a haunting, painful thing of shimmering beauty.

Painful in itself, of a relationship fracturing; painful all the more for being recorded four weeks before its singer, Ian Curtis, committed suicide.

But painful too for the remaining members who wrote it, played it thousands of times, heard it more than that – only to bust up spectacularly over 30 years later, knowing full well its emotional resonance.

And be clear: the bust up between Peter Hook and his Joy Division/New Order band members is as utterly bitter, protracted, chasmic, enduring and desperately sad as any band split, ever.

This is the shadow looming over Hooky’s book, Substance: Inside New Order. Fans know how the band started, born of the death of Ian Curtis. But we know how Hooky’s involvement ended, with years of epic peer grumbling terminating with a furious rupture.

The book is punctuated and punctured with the highest of highs, not all drug-induced, and the most rock’n’roll of rows. Drink flows, drugs lurk – and the anecdotes torrent out. One chapter is headed ‘Grandmaster Flash being marched out by a copper with a machine gun’. Another has ‘Turned out his cure for jetlag was the biggest line of coke I’d ever seen’.

As a big fan of both bands, I’ll be interviewing Peter Hook (in a church!). Fancy asking him a question? Tweet ideas to @CreativeBath.

Notionally, it’ll be about his new book – his searing take on the bands, the split, his DJ’ing, his brief marriage to Caroline Aherne, his rock’n’roll blur of decades.

And actually..? It’s about an era, an attitude, an anarcho-bolshiness, a catalogue of joyous and desperately sad music, of a local scene that went global. And of a world that seems worlds away but still pulses through our culture.

Don’t miss it, eh..?

Playing Hooky Who: Hooky – you must know Hooky! Peter Hook, founder member, co-writer and bassist for Joy Division and New Order What: In conversation with Creative Bath’s chairman, Greg Ingham Organised by: Toppings Tickets: £10 from www.toppingbooks.co.uk £8 to Creative Bath members www.creativebath.org Where: Christ Church, Julian Road, Bath, BA1 2RH When: 7.30 for 8pm, 7 October

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Authentic Lebanese cuisine and dance to enjoy and share!

1001 Nights

The Magic of the East Experience an evening of delicious Lebanese cuisine including a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian dishes; watch an enchanting belly dance show to live music by Orient Express; all set within an authentic Arabic atmosphere.

Date: 14th October 2016 Time: 7pm – 10pm Venue: The Oriel Hall, Brookleaze Buildings, Larkhall, Bath BA1 6RA Cost: £32 per person Contact Wafaa Powell to book “It was a brilliant night; we enjoyed the food, the dancing and meeting new people” Lesley Gane 10% of all profit made will go to the work of my local chosen charity, People against Poverty who work tirelessly to relieve poverty worldwide.

WAFAA POWELL T 01225 355 072 | M 07763 930 199 | E wafaa@dancingflavours.co.uk f Wafaa Belly Dancing Flavours | www.dancingflavours.co.uk

a d v e r tisin g featu r e e d u c at i o n

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOU KNOW?

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dge Arts are delighted to share their galleries with the people of B&NES for Know-How – free events for all, celebrating the importance of sharing and applying knowledge in society.

Showcasing the wealth of skills and knowledge held by local residents and within the University, this ‘live’ exhibition marks the University of Bath’s 50th anniversary and offers insights into the natural world, local heritage, science, climate change and the human body, alongside artist commissions and contributions.

From the 17 September – 22 October, The Edge galleries will host five weeks of exhibitions, talks, demonstrations, family discovery days, workshops and practical sessions for anyone with an interest in learning new skills or finding out more about the world around them. The galleries are part of Bath’s newest arts centre offering two theatres, dance studios, art studios, music practice rooms and a fab café, based at

the University of Bath.

From fraudsters to fakes and email scams, beekeeping to mobile allotments, cycling in B&NES to what you can do about climate change, we take inspiration from the 500th anniversary of Sir Thomas More’s Utopia.

Also look out for family discovery days on fascinating topics, including nature, local history and environment with lots of fun activities, free and open to all on the 24 September, 15 and 22 October.

There’s still time for B&NES residents to get involved too. If you’re local to the area and have a question or something you need to know, plus at least four friends or neighbours who share your curiosity, get in touch with us and we’ll aim to help you with it by bringing in an expert. Or how about using our galleries to host your own knowledge-sharing events and/or workshops at no cost? We’re open to all ideas, so whether you’re looking for somewhere different to hold

Credit: Vulpes Vulpes

Know-How exhibition and events 17 September – 22 October

your book club or society meeting or have a burning question we can help with, get in touch, we’d love to hear from you.

01225 386777; h.m.fripp@bath.ac.uk www.edgearts.org

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BOOKS

ARTS

£8.99), Orphans of the Carnival seizes on and fictionalises events surrounding a real Victorian character. This time it’s Julia Pastrana, the indigenous Mexican performer of very peculiar appearance, who becomes a sensation in Europe and who, in Birch’s novel, is mysteriously connected with present-day Londoner, Rose.

WITH EACH TALE THE LINES BETWEEN MAN AND BEAST BECOME EVER MORE BLURRED

IN THE GOOD BOOKS From 19th century tense and mysterious stories, to contemporary, more lackadaisical affairs, here are three great recommendations to discover this month…

By N IC BO T T OM L E Y

A

s the printing presses flex their inky muscles ready for the silly season of the year’s final third when new books are born at rabbitspeed, I have three novels to report back to you on from my already distant-feeling summer break. All three are from writers whose previous efforts we were extremely fond of at Mr B’s – so, though they didn’t know it, the pressure was on.

First was the second novel from Eowyn Ivey who had great success a few years ago with The Snow Child (Tinder Press, £8.99).

Her home state of Alaska is once again the setting for her new book To The Bright Edge of the World (Tinder Press, £16.99) but the calendar has spun back this time to the late 19th century, a period when America was still trying to discover what exactly it had purchased from the Russians when it took on Alaska. Ivey’s hero is Colonel Forrester, a military man, who sets out to navigate the frozen canyons of the Wolverine River in the early spring. His aim is to map the uncharted territories beyond, assess the mineral wealth of the landscape (something that’s still going on of course) and to ascertain whether the indigenous populations were likely to be hostile to the arrival of the white man.

The novel is told predominantly through Forrester’s diary of the increasingly arduous and tense journey and the parallel diary of the young wife, Sophie, that he’s left behind at the barracks in Vancouver. She eschews the polite society of the other comically irritating military wives and instead distracts herself from her husband’s long and uncommunicative absence by taking up nature photography.

And it’s the connection between humans and the natural world which is the dominant theme of this super book. Sophie observes the raven at her window and frets on its reputation as a harbinger of bad tidings.

Forrester and his stressed and physically ruined companions in the Alaskan wilderness hear myths from the locals of women turning into geese or the Indian who killed her adulterous half-otter husband.

With each such tale the lines between man and beast become ever more blurred and the threats to those undertaking the epic mission North seem to expand beyond those imagined at the outset.

Sticking with the 19th century, I’m currently reading the excellent Orphans of the Carnival by Carol Birch (Canongate, £14.99) in anticipation of her event with us on 20 September. Like her previous novel, the visceral Jamrach’s Menagerie (Canongate,

Moving to the modern day, where To the Bright Edge of the World and Orphans of the Carnival are sweeping novels of plot, The Nakano Thrift Shop by Hiromi Kawakami (Portobello, £12.99) is a more lackadaisical affair with no fixed destination for its characters. Like Stranger Weather in Tokyo (Portobello, £7.99) before it, this is a quiet, contemporary Japanese novel which is all about the characters and their everyday lives rather than any dramatic incidents.

The cast is a quirky group of misfits who work together at a kind of junk shop under the eccentric leadership of the eponymous Mr Nakano. He is a man of peculiar stockbuying habits, with a very keen eye for a good deal and a personal life that is confused and clouded in mystery.

The real heroine of the novel, though, is the narrator Hitomi who works at the thrift shop almost against her better judgment, watches the goings on of Nakano, and slowly forms an attachment to Nakano’s taciturn and sometimes contrary right-hand man, Takeo. If the novel has a question to be answered then it surrounds the nature of Hitomi and Takeo’s relationship and whether that is ever destined to change.

Kawakami’s writing is exquisite and if it’s atmosphere and intriguing characters that you enjoy in a novel, then I highly recommend spending time with Nakano’s Thrift Shop. Its staff and its vast array of artefacts are cleverly woven into the story and give the chapters their titles.

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

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FILM

ARTS

Clockwise from left: Little Men tells the story of two teens becoming best friends; catch the celebrated crooner Michael Bublé in Michael Bublé – Tour Stop 148; Yarn may change your perceptions of knitting; Emily Blunt in The Girl on the Train

MIX ‘N’ MATCH Knitting, trains, gardening and Michael Bublé – the subjects of a few of the best films and events to enjoy at the Little this month

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

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oot toot! Down the line comes the literary phenomenon that is The Girl on the Train. A huge hit on publication, so much so that it was at the top of the UK hardback charts for a record-breaking 20 weeks – which is four whole weeks longer than Bryan Adams was at the top with his Robin Hood slow snogger, which, I feel, puts it into perspective quite effectively. Emily Blunt (the new Mary Poppins, no less) is excellently cast as the train-travelling tinker who becomes a little over-interested in the lives of the couple she sees every day as the train stops. However, this story is not a straightforward journey.

On the way, things suddenly take a different track and before you know where you are, you’ve ended up on another train altogether.

It’s like Rear Window with a bit of Titfield Thunderbolt chucked in, and it’s the best twisty-turny thriller adaptation of a massiveselling book with ‘Girl’ in the title since Gone Girl. It’s just the ticket, and I can’t express it any better than that.

Dare to Be Wild is all about gardener Mary Reynolds, who nurtures a desire to compete at the Chelsea Flower Show but who has

to overcome all sorts of hurdles in order to achieve her dream. Facing setbacks galore, our horticultural heroine refuses to shrub her shoulders and sets out for Ethiopia in order to find the one chap who can bring her grand schemes to life. He agrees to help her out and this results in, ahem, some impressive bedding. This true story of one of the folk heroes of Ireland is an inspiring tale of what one can manage when bush comes to shove, and yes, you end up really rooting for her. Very excited to impart that on 23 September, we have director Vivienne de Courcy coming along to take questions following the screening. As far as I know, Ms de Courcy is no relation to Roger, but if I’m wrong and she has access to Nookie Bear then I do hope he comes along too.

Little is the key word with the little film, Little Men showing at the Little. From director Ira Sachs (Love is Strange) it tells the story of two young Brooklyn teenagers, Jake and Tony, becoming best friends when Jake’s parents (Greg Kinnear and Jennifer Ehle) move into the apartment above the shop run by Tony’s mother. It’s an otherwise unlikely friendship, with Jake being your more sensitive arty type and Tony being a

brash wannabe Pacino. Still, teenagers being what they are, they bond through normal channels such as hating their parents.

Subtle but gripping, it’s the best coming-of age film since Blue Lagoon in my opinion.

And if it’s not your satchel, at least it’s only 80 minutes’ long.

Introducing our very first knit-a-long, Yarn brings the world of wool wizardry to the big screen on 9 October. Meet the artists who are redefining the age-old tradition of knit and crochet, no longer the domain of industrious grannies, into a striking work of art. Feel free to cast on as you enjoy the film.

Hands up who likes superstar Michael Bublé? Of course you do, what’s not to like?

In recognition of said fact, we are presenting a front-row seat at Michael Bublé – Tour Stop 148 on 25 September. As if this isn’t exciting enough, the event includes behind-thescenes action from Team Bublé and a special 15-minute introduction from the man himself. It’ll leave you Feelin’ Good for sure.

A while ago, we found in one of the projection rooms a pile of dusty old reels which, according to the projectionist at the time, had been there forever and nobody had looked into what they were. We sent them over to the lab boffins at the BFI for their take, and it transpired that they were property of the BBC, who had been looking for them since the 1950s. Like, whoops. All’s fine now – we’ve said sorry and resultingly we are now permitted to put this lost footage on screen. Called Bath: Queen of the West, it’s part of a 1952 series (About Britain) presented by Richard Dimbleby, and is a fascinating travelogue depicting a very different Bath to the one we know now. I’m delighted to say that Jonathan Dimbleby is to come along to the showing on 25 September and say a few words about his illustrious dad, before handing over to Dr Amy Frost from Bath Preservation Trust who will talk about Bath’s architectural ups and downs since the war. Tickets will fly out and may well have already all gone by the time you read this. Likewise, our other massive events this month – One More Time with Feeling (a Nick Cave film about his new album) and My Scientology (Louis Theroux doing his disingenuous thing with culty oddbods), so I’d advise you to put this gibberish down for a minute and get to the cinema before it’s too late.

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

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R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

The Dower House Restaurant Located on one of Bath’s most recognisable streets, this hidden-away hotel restaurant is one of the city’s most exciting places to fine dine

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By L I SA E VA NS

sually, at a restaurant, it’s the food menu which arrives first, but our passionate and selfproclaimed ‘selfish sommelier’, Jean-Marc Leitao, at The Royal Crescent Hotel’s Dower House Restaurant insists that the wine is far too important to be delivered second.

After a short assessment of our likes and dislikes, he selects our tipple – a refreshing and fruity Riesling – which, he says, will be a great balance to our upcoming six-course tasting menu. France-born Jean-Marc likes to surprise and take risks, whether it’s with a non-oaky chardonnay for diners that won’t usually touch the stuff, or a spicy Bulgarian red. Wine is so intrinsic here that there’s even a glass feature wall encasing myriad emptied and enjoyed bottles.

The décor is exquisite and offers relaxing grandeur at its best. With its enormous floral mural, the restaurant area is adorned with luxe greys and stylish golds, done in an understated but elegant way without a whiff of formality.

Its attention to detail and standard of service is what you’d expect of a restaurant which is situated in the centre of the magnificent Georgian sweep of mansions that is the worldfamous Royal Crescent. Hidden away at the back of the hotel’s enchanting garden, and billed as a ‘best-kept secret’, The Dower House itself is a striking pedimented building reached via a twisting, twinkly-lit, lavender-edged path. When we arrive, it’s busy with a subdued, yet far from stuffy, atmosphere and the front-ofhouse staff seem passionate and seriously enthusiastic.

We’re expecting a lot of the food at this AA 3 Rosette restaurant, at the helm of which is accomplished head chef David Campbell who, before joining The Dower House, was head chef for the England Rugby team.

It quickly becomes clear that David is a man who likes to impress; with ingredients such as torchon of duck liver and nasturtiums, his food is playful, dexterous, textured and variegated throughout. More than that, though, his six-course, fine dining tasting menu – along with

SO JUICY AND YIELDING IT CAN BARELY BE RECOGNISED AS MEAT

a separate vegetarian offering – is exceptionally composed and cohesive.

We begin with the thickly sliced, plump and delicately hay-smoked salmon topped with fluffy cauliflower, fabulously fresh lemon and pretty, translucent slivers of radish. A lift of the glass dome which covers it releases a dramatic whoosh of smoke to deliver a multi-sensory treat.

Then it’s the vegetarian slow-cooked duck egg served with peas, broad beans, croutons and shaved truffle which is finished with a beautifully light, yet deeply savoury mushroom broth. And for my comrade, the same, with the addition of sliced pink ibérico ham which brings it up yet another notch.

Next up is the intriguing salad of heritage tomatoes, covering the green-to-red spectrum, dotted with hot feta cheese, spiced watermelon and coriander, bathed in the cleanest tomato consommé. Although the texture combination is perfection, this dish isn’t my favourite, so my partner gladly helps polish it off.

Onto the main, and rich salt marsh lamb’s the choice on the meat eater’s menu. Soft cuts of loin and neck – which are so mouth-wateringly juicy and yielding it can barely be recognised as meat – are served with parsley, quinoa, heritage carrot, ewe’s curd and the sweetest of grapes.

And, sans meat, is a superb dish comprising a deep-fried courgette flower centrepiece which, when cut into, reveals a hidden filling of melted feta and tomatoes, teamed with well-cooked seasonal vegetable morsels and hay-baked Jersey Royals crowned with peaks of chive and parmesandusted crème fraiche.

We’d lost count of the courses by this point (did I mention we’d also been served homemade breads and truffle vichyssoise too?) and didn’t realise that four desserts were soon to arrive at the table. First, two pots of poached peach and lavender cream panna cotta sprinkled with champagne ice crystals – which somehow manage to retain their shape when balanced on the pud, but melt on the tongue like snowflakes – and finally two plates of crisp mille-feuille served with a surprising tonka bean addition which brings out the sweetness of the raspberries perched between the layers of French pastry.

We’d never normally be the type to betray a confidence, but this hidden-away treasure, with its tasteful style, allimportant sense of excitement and impeccable food and wine, is not going to remain a secret for long – mainly because we can’t stop talking about it.

DINING DETAILS The Dower House Restaurant at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, 16 Royal Crescent, Bath, BA1 2LS; www.royalcrescent.co.uk Prices Three courses: £52.50; five courses: £65; six courses; £72 Vegetarian choice: a separate, dedicated menu Wine list: world wines chosen by ‘selfish sommelier’ Jean-Marc Leitao Service/ atmosphere Supremely attentive and friendly without being in the least bit stuffy

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FOOD

F E S T I VA L

AND THE EAT GOES ON… F Whether you like your food fast or slow, street or sumptuous, cuisine or comforting, the Great Bath Feast is back and catering to all tastes or nine glorious gastronomic days, Bath will be packed with pukka events – from a champagne reception in the historically significant Roman Baths, to artisan craft beer and curry in the industrially-chic Electric Bear Brewing Company’s Taproom. So clear your diaries, work up an appetite and fill your plates at this selection of enticing events…

THE BIG BATH BITE

1 OCTOBER Pizza-tasting, dough-throwing and live music kick off the Great Bath Feast at Green Park Station, as well as heralding the official launch of the venue’s colourful new food quarter. Along with the authentic and acclaimed street stalls, there’s also the Bath Farmers’ Market, Wolf Wine-tasting and live beats plus a DJ set from Mark the Rez at the new Resolution Records vinyl shop.

GREAT BATH BAKE SALE

1 OCTOBER Call in at Bath Abbey for tasty, home-baked, savoury and sweet treats on sale to raise funds for the Abbey’s Footprint project.

HANDS ON AT THE BERTINET KITCHEN

1 OCTOBER Celebrate la dolce vita of cooking as the Romans do with the entertaining, informative and talented chef and author Eleonara Galasso who’ll be cooking and talking food with an energy and anecdotes you’ll remember forever.

JAPANESE SAKE TASTING EVENING

1 OCTOBER For goodness sake, get down to the Holburne for a Japanese sake-tasting evening with a great collection of brewers showcasing the variety of sake including sweet, sparkling (who knew?) and aged. Milsom Place’s Yo! Sushi will be providing the nibbles to be washed down.

BATH BITES FOOD & DRINK FAIR 1 – 9 OCTOBER For all nine days, 12 high quality and locally sourced food vendors will be in residence in Abbey Churchyard, serving up a wide array of delicious hot and cold food from many different 102 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

cuisines along with Granny Garbutt’s Gin Palace, with her extensive menu of over 100 gins including much-loved, local tipplers The Bath Gin Company.

AFTER-WORK DRINKS & TASTING TOUR WITH SAVOURING BATH

4 & 6 OCTOBER This is a great excuse to leave the office early and head into town to explore our unique watering holes and celebrate local drink heroes including Somerset perry, cider and real ales, ending with cocktails in a secret location.

CHOCOLATE TWO WAYS

5 OCTOBER Join artisan chocolatier, Nick Shearn at Seven Hills Chocolate at Newton Farm Shop as he explains the chocolate-making process from bean to bar.

ELECTRIC BEAR’S BEER AND CURRY NIGHT

6 OCTOBER Nick Peters of The Grocer Café brings his modern Indian menu to Electric Bear for a celebration of the time-honoured combination of beer and curry. Try an Indian take on a burrito, Masala fries or Indian custard tarts.

LANSON CHAMPAGNETASTING DINNER

7 OCTOBER So not only is it the Great Bath Feast, turns out it is also National Champagne Week – our cup truly runneth over! Lanson are hosting an exclusive champagne-tasting dinner at the Roman Baths, followed by a four-course dinner with each course expertly paired with a glass of champagne from the Lanson collection. In addition, the Roman Baths Kitchen will be transforming its bar and terrace area to create Bath’s first dedicated-to-champagne pop-up bar.

BREAKFAST AT NO.1 ROYAL CRESCENT

8 OCTOBER Dine like a Georgian with an 18th century style public breakfast, which includes delicious hot buns, toasted fruit bread, cake and Hasslacher’s hot chocolate served from the private servants’ hall and courtyard.

MORE DELICIOUS TREATS FROM THE GREAT BATH FEAST INCLUDE… Taste of Bath is conducting foodiewalking tours of the city

The Gainsborough Hotel is introducing a new six-course tasting menu, plus a special two-for-one winter menu

Learn how to powerhouse your smoothies at a Neal’s Yard workshop Same Same But Different is offering a feasting deal: spend £10 or more on breakfast or lunch during the Great Bath Feast, and receive a 20 per cent off voucher for dinner Pop into the The Foodie Bugle’s new premises on Abbey Street for their special autumn teatime treats Demuths and Independent Spirit are joining forces for a whisky and Indian tapas evening For all events, venues and pricing information visit: www.greatbathfeast.co.uk

CLEAR YOUR DIARIES, WORK UP AN APPETITE AND FILL YOUR PLATES AT THIS SELECTION OF ENTICING EVENTS Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Bath Abbey houses the Great Bath Cake Sale; homemade treats will raise money for charity; Demuth’s Vegetarian cookery school are hosting a range of events;Green Park Station officially launches its artisan food quarter with The Big Bath Bite; Italian chef and author Eleonara Galasso gives a cookery demonstration and talk at The Bertinet Kitchen

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

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Classical Thai cuisine in a relaxed and friendly authentic Thai environment Party bookings are welcome

the home of rice and noodles New Hot Pot Menu Traditional East Asian cuisine, consisting of a simmering metal pot of stock at the centre of the dining table with ingredients placed in the pot, cooked at the table and served with a dipping sauce

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16 Argyle Street, Bath BA2 4BQ info@thaibytheweir.com | www.thaibytheweir.com

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

BEAUTY BOSS

Liz Earle MBE, the world-renowned skincare, beauty and wellbeing expert, tells Lisa Evans about her new book, the pleasures of living in Wiltshire and why Bath is one of her favourite cities

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he’s the sort of woman whose secrets we all want to discover so that we too can develop that glowing radiance which the celebrated botanical beauty expert seems to have mastered. And, according to the woman herself, Liz Earle, Bath is a place that radiates health and wellbeing.

“Bath has always been a centre for wellness, from the Roman spas onwards,” says Liz, who is visiting Bath whilst on a tour of the country promoting her new book. “There seems to be a genuine positivity about the city and a wealth of passion for good food, health stores, fitness groups and wellbeing through sport and culture.”

Liz, whose grandmother lived in Great Pulteney Street, has affectionate memories of Bath. She says, although it was only for a fleeting visit during her UK tour to talk about her new book – the rather lengthily titled Skin: Delicious Recipes and the Ultimate Wellbeing Plan for Radiant Skin – coming back to Bath is always a treat.

“I have very fond childhood memories of tea at Sally Lunn’s (and famous buns, obviously) and Christmas services in Bath Abbey,” says Liz who lives on a farm in Wiltshire and visits Bath regularly.

“I love Bath – it’s one of my favourite cities. The architecture is spellbinding and I just love walking the streets; the city never fails to inspire and instill good vibes.

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“It’ll be great to get the chance to meet people there and talk about how to create more radiant, healthy-looking skin at every age and stage in life, from advice for spot-prone teenagers to ways to help ward off wrinkles as we age,” added Liz ahead of her event at Waterstones Bath, which took place on 12 September. “I’m coming back to Bath to have tea at The Royal Crescent Hotel later in the year and I’ve also booked to bring my five children to the Christmas pantomime. We came last year to see Nigel Havers in Jack and the Beanstalk and are looking forward to another brilliant production.”

Liz’s book, published earlier this month, aims to, she says, “help transform dull and lifeless skin to skin that radiates with good health,” and includes a six-week programme which focuses on different aspects of skincare – from detox and exfoliation to cleansing and healing – along with 80 nourishing recipes.

“As modern medicine enables more of us to grow into older age, we’re becoming more interested in ensuring we live not only longer, but with more vitality and the ability to get on and enjoy life to the full,” she says. “The book is a complete guide to achieving clearer, more radiant looking skin from the inside as well as the outside. Not only does it reveal all the tips and tricks to getting more from your skincare routine, but I also share my best-kept secrets on what to eat (and drink) for a truly glowing complexion.”

BATH HAS ALWAYS BEEN A CENTRE FOR WELLNESS, FROM THE ROMAN SPAS ONWARDS

ONE TO ONE

QUICK-FIRE ROUND What’s your typical breakfast, lunch and dinner?

I’ve got some new recipes in my book; my personal favourites are: banana, oat and nut butter pancakes for breakfast; broccoli and feta crustless quiche for lunch; and salmon fishcakes with Pecorino cheese for dinner.

During autumn/winter, what are your best beauty tips?

Increase the amount of plant oils (like olive and rapeseed) in your diet to help keep the skin soft and smooth in the colder months; and drink plenty of water, at least 1.5 litres a day.

The beauty product you couldn’t live without?

The Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser.

A multi award-winner and the beauty product I am proudest to have created.

FOOD

TRY ONE OF LIZ’S RECIPES AT HOME Blackberry, hazelnut and spelt cake bites Makes 20, 110 calories each Ingredients 130g dried, stoned prunes 130ml boiling water Zest and juice of 1 orange 1 Cox’s apple, cored and finely chopped 50g sultanas 100g jumbo or rolled oats 3 eggs 25g set honey 50g olive or rapeseed oil (and extra for greasing) 50g spelt flour 50g wheatbran 1 tbsp baking powder 50g hazelnuts, roughly chopped 150g blackberries

Preheat oven to 190°C. Grease and line a 20cm square cake tin with baking parchment.

Put the prunes into a bowl and pour over the boiling water. Set aside to soak. Mix the orange zest, juice, apple and sultanas together in a separate bowl.

Put the oats into a mini food processor and whizz to make a fine flour.

Drain the prunes, reserving the liquid, then whizz in a food processor until smooth. Stir the liquid back in, then spoon this mixture into a sieve resting over a bowl, and use a spoon to extract the purée. You should have 140g–160g.

Whisk the eggs, honey and oil in a bowl until foamy, then fold in the prune purée, apple mixture, oats, oil, spelt flour, wheatbran, baking powder and hazelnuts. Fold everything together.

Spoon the mixture into the tin, then scatter over the blackberries.

Bake for 40 minutes, until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Cool, then cut into 20 squares.

Do you ever get any bad skin days yourself?

Only if I don’t get a good night’s sleep. I find, as I get older, that a lack of sleep shows up more quickly on my face, so I do try and get eight hours’ sleep, using an eye mask and ear plugs if I’m travelling.

What are you doing when you’re not working?

I love spending time recipetesting and trying out new foodie ideas; Nordic walking with ski-sticks around my farm fields; and foraging in hedgerows for berries to make jams and syrups.

Skin: Delicious Recipes and the Ultimate Wellbeing Plan for Radiant Skin, by Liz Earle, Orion Spring, 2016; www.lizearlewellbeing.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 107

D I N I N G 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

CAFÉS & COFFEE SHOPS

THE BATH PRIORY Weston Rd, Bath; 01225 331922; www.thebathpriory.co.uk Michelin starred fine dining overlooking hotels award-winning gardens

GREEN BIRD CAFÉ 11 Margaret's Buildings, Bath; 01225 487846; www.greenbirdcafe.co.uk Independently run cafe located between the Circus & Royal Crescent

THE BEAUFORT 1 Beaufort, London Road, Bath; 01225 422033; www.thebeaufortbath.com Family run restaurant in the heart of Larkhall cooking creative, seasonal food

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

CIRCUS CAFÉ & RESTAURANT 34 Brock St, Bath; 01225 466020; www.thecircuscafeandrestaurant.co.uk All-day restaurant serving seasonal, local produce next to Bath’s iconic Georgian Circus CLAYTONS KITCHEN, THE PORTER 15a George St, Bath; 01225 585100; www.theporter.co.uk Stylish modern British cooking from Rob Clayton

ST JAMES CAFÉ 5- 6 St James St, St James Square, Bath; 01225 336106 Recently refurbished café and deli THE KINGSMEAD KITCHEN 1 Kingsmead St, Kingsmead Square, Bath; 01225 329002; www.fieldfireandfeast.co.uk Laid-back, modern cafe-bar open daily from 8am until 6pm for breakfast, brunch, lunch and tea using own farm produce

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

FRENCH

HENRYS 4 Saville Row, Bath; 01225 780055; www.henrysrestaurantbath.com Imaginative modern dining offering a classic menu and also full vegetarian and vegan menus

GASTROPUBS

JOHANN LAFER, THE GAINSBOROUGH Beau St, Bath; 01225 358888; www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk Menus inspired by Johann Lafer’s “Dining Without Borders” philosophy MENU GORDON JONES 2 Wellsway, Bath; 01225 480871; www.menugordonjones.co.uk Multi award winning fine dining with constantly changing surprise tasting menu 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 108 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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

THE CHEQUERS 50 Rivers St, Bath; 01225 360017; www.thechequersbath.com Inventive British food served in a welcoming pub atmosphere close to the Royal Crescent

menu, extensive wine list and scenic outdoor seats THE LOCKSBROOK INN 103 Locksbrook Rd, Bath; 01225 427119; www.thelocksbrookinn.com Recently opened canal side gastropub in Bath, open every day for drinks, brunch, coffee, lunch, evening meals and grazing in between THE MARLBOROUGH TAVERN 35 Marlborough Buildings; 01225 423731; www.marlborough-tavern.com Award winning gastropub using seasonal local produce THE RICHMOND ARMS 7 Richmond Place, Bath; 01225 316725; www.therichmondarmsbath.com Hearty dishes 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

THE GPT SMOKEHOUSE 44-45 Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 429509; www.gptbath.com “Dude Food” menu cooked with authentic handmade American hot smoker

JOYA 6 Newmarket Row, Bath; 01225 460240; www.joyarestaurant.co.uk Family-run ristorante situated opposite Bath's famous Pulteney Bridge

HALL AND WOODHOUSE 1 Old King St, Bath; 01225 469259; www.hall-woodhousebath.co.uk Chic bar and British restaurant with a modern vintage vibe

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

THE HARE AND HOUNDS Lansdown Rd, Avon, Bath; 01225 482682; www.hareandhoundsbath.com Airy, relaxed spot with modern British gastropub

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

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

SOTTO SOTTO 10 N Parade, Bath; 01225 330236; www.sottosotto.co.uk Classic Italian menu with a contemporary twist in candlelit vaulted cellars

REAL ITALIAN PIZZA CO 16 York St, Bath; 01225 330121; www.realitalianpizza.co.uk Family owned pizzeria. Wood fired pizza with fresh authentic ingredients

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

STEAK HOUSES

PIZZA DOUGH The Corridor, Bath; 01225 443686; www.doughpizzarestaurant.co.uk World class pizza from Massimo Nucaro THE OVEN 21 Westgate St, Bath; 01225 311181; www.theovenpizzeria.co.uk Neapolitan artisan pizza using local and Italian imported produce

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

MADRID 5 Chapel Row, Bath; 01225 423417; www.madrid-tapas-bath.com Bringing a taste of Madrid to Bath – traditional Spanish tapas with a modern twist OLÉ TAPAS 1 John Street, Bath; 01225 466440; www.oletapas.co.uk Charming, authentic Spanish tapas – one of Bath’s best kept secrets

THAI KOH THAI TAPAS 36 Broad St, Bath; 01225 311232; www.koh-thai.co.uk Award winning small Thai tapas plates and cocktails THAI BY THE WEIR 16 Argyle St, Bath; 01225 444834; www.thaibytheweir.co.uk Restaurant overlooking the weir, serving a classic Thai menu

OUTSIDE of BATH 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 THE GREENHOUSE RESTAURANT The Pavilion, Wadswick Green, Corsham SN13 9RD; 01225 585880; www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk Smart, stylish and relaxed new dining destination

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS

Park restaurant and more informal dining at the stylish contemporary brasserie at 5 star country house hotel THE PIG Hunstrete House, Hunstrete, Pensford, Bath BS39 4NS; 01761 490490; www.thepighotel.com/near-bath Part of the acclaimed Pig group, country house hotel and restaurant with food sourced from Kitchen garden

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

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

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

LUCKNAM PARK Colerne, Wilts, SN14 8AZ; 01225 742777; www.lucknampark.co.uk Michelin Star fine dining at the renowned

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 THE LONGS ARMS Upper South Wraxall, Wilts, BA15 2SB; 01225 864450; www.thelongsarms.com Award winning modern British food and cask ales in country inn THE THREE DAGGERS 47 Westbury Rd, Edington, Wilts BA13 4PG; 01380 830940; www.threedaggers.co.uk Pub restaurant using local seasonal produce, luxury B&B accommodation, farm shop full and microbrewery

FARM SHOPS MEADGATE FARM SHOP Weekesley Ln, Timsbury, BA2 0NH; 01761 470089; www.meadgatefarmshop.co.uk Shop and café selling local produce

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

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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

GIVE AND CAKE Ready, teddy bake!

Tim learned to cook like an Egyptian

Those famous Channel 4 siblings of cuisine, The Fabulous Baker Brothers, also known as Tom and Henry Herbert, are coming to Bath.

The pair are the official ambassadors for the fundraising of Ted’s Big Bake Off and will be making a special visit to the RUH on 21 October to open the hospital’s Big Bake Sale. The event, which is officially sponsored by BuroHappold and supported by Bath Cake Company, marks the close of the fundraising week across the region.

“Whether it’s holding a coffee morning, bake sale or hosting a bake-off competition at work, school or with friends and family,” says Tom. “Funds raised can be dedicated to support the RUH Cancer Care Campaign, or department of your choice.”

For more: www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk

WHEELY SWEET When Helen Sworder decided she wanted a change of direction, she got on her bike. “I’ve always done front of house and admin jobs, including working at Babington House,” says Helen. “I had the idea to do something for different for events, and that’s how The Sweet Tricycle came about in January this year.”

Demand soon grew, along with variations on the theme, as Helen explains, “So far it has also been a Pimm’s Tricycle, a Crisps Tricycle, a Hot Chocolate Tricycle and, most recently, a Prosecco Tricycle.”

As well as weddings, the Tricycle has travelled to corporate events, including supplying the sweets at a party for TK Maxx, and is gearing up for the Christmas season. “I’m working on some Winter Wonderland packages and next year would ideally love to design a couple more tricycles.”

For more: www.thesweettricycle.co.ukorg

Helen is now a spokesperson

GOOD MANNAS A little piece of Egypt has landed in the middle of Bath and is cooking up a (sand) storm. Timothy Douglas and Stephanie Body have set up Manna From Avon at Green Park Station and are serving authentic street food inspired by Timothy’s itinerant childhood – as the son of an army colonel – spent in countries such as Malaysia, Hong Kong, the Middle East and Egypt.

“I worked as a crown servant for 30 years,” explains Timothy. “But I have always wanted to do something foodie, so I took a leap of faith and began the business in July this year.

“The high points so far have been the first £10 taken – it was from a Somalian customer who thankfully was very impressed with our falafels, which are now our bestseller.

“There aren’t many low points but one has to be just how much washing up is generated every day!”

For more: Twitter @mannafromavon

PHOTO CREDIT RAFAEL RAMIREZ

THE BREW CREW

“Let’s have a drink and then decide whose turn it is to serve”

The aptly named Daniel and Emily Brew have taken over the management of The Curfew Inn in Bath. The Cleveland Bridge pub has undergone a complete transformation and been sympathetically renovated, with period features retained and traditional heritage colours for the paintwork. The interior has been stripped out, the ceiling on the ground floor raised and a new bar fitted. “Between building works and establishing a new business, Emily and I have been out and about in Bath meeting other landlords, suppliers and potential customers,” says Daniel.

Emily adds, “All our food, including the evening and light lunch options will be freshly made on site, including the family favourite bar snack, ‘Dan’s Nuts’.”

For more: www.thecurfewbath.co.uk

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Fashion/gifts/stores/more

ART ON YOUR SLEEVE Artists are constantly finding inventive new mediums and canvases, and Bath’s Carole Waller, who owns One Two Five Gallery with her husband, ceramicist Gary Wood, specialises in painting dye directly onto fabrics, creating detailed and contemporary wearable art. Each of her treasures, previously seen in Liberty, Harvey Nichols and Bergdorf Goodman, can be bought from her now exclusive outlet on Abbey Green, which celebrated its first year anniversary in business last month.

The award-winning artist began painting in her unique style in 1986, and past collections have included those inspired by Italian church frescoes and the cave paintings at Lascaux in France, but her current creations are themed around the history of Bath as well as its topography, weather and terrain.

“I believe that people want to have a personal connection to their clothes, their art, the things that inspire them,” explains Carole. “People want to be able to express their creativity and individuality and my clothes let them. It’s alchemy between the garment and the wearer, and because each piece is completely unique, you won’t see someone else in the same dress as you.”

Tailored silk shantung Ray coat, £795, available at One Two Five Gallery on Abbey Green, Bath; www.carolewaller.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 113

SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

FASHION FORECAST

By L I SA E VA NS Deep, dark, smoky hues are ruling the roost for the new season, with a few stand-out, eye-catching exceptions

A

s much as we don’t want to come to terms with summer’s end, autumn is probably our favourite, and most exciting, sartorial season, and there’s nothing more effective than slipping on a new coat to make you feel better about the cold weather creeping in. Casting our minds back to February, when the AW16 catwalk collections were revealed, we saw many influential designers take a largely dark turn with swathes of gothic glamour coming through at Erdem and Marc Jacobs, where black lace, lashings of velvet and flashes of leather ruled the runways.

But there were bursts of boldness and brightness in the mix, too, with eyecatching prints like the ones on the Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci catwalks.

Colour-wise, blues – both light and dark – play an integral role in this season’s colour palette, as do smoky greys and earthy, scorched oranges, with confident, vibrant reds adding a welcome punch. So, whether you want to embrace dynamic prints, subtle hues, lavish velvets, or brooding tones, here’s our selection of some of the new haute-to-trot pieces in Bath that we love right now…

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

Herringbone blazer, £375, from Brora, 6 Bridge Street, Bath; www.brora.co.uk

FA S H I O N 1

SHOPPING

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1. Custommade Alvia Jacket, £195, from Grace & Mabel, 7 Broad Street, Bath; www.graceandmabel.co.uk 2. Vivienne Westwood draped tartan scarf, £127, from Magpie & Bear, 7 Green Street, Bath; www.magpieandbear.com 3. Carmen velvet sapphire boots (available in October), £199, from Kilver Court Designer Village, Kilver Street, Shepton Mallet, www.kilvercourt.com 4. Becksondergaard Alda bag, £125, from Bloomsbury, 15 New Bond Street, Bath; www.bloomsburystore.com 5. Sixton London Finland dress, £62.99, from Boho, 13 Broad Street, Bath; www.bohofashion.com 6. Ore silk check and stripe scarf, £130, from Katherine Fraser, 74 Walcot Street, Bath, www.katherinefraser.co.uk 7. Bitte Kai Rand harem trousers, £170, from Blue at The Loft, 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; www.theloftbath.com 8. Sue Gregor skeleton leaf cuff, £45, from Quadri of Bath, 16 Milsom Place, Milsom Street, Bath; www.suegregor.myshopify.com 9. Forme boots, £245, from Chanii B, 9 Milsom Place, Bath; www.chaniibshoes.com 10. Sabrina Dehoff Picasso ring, £103, from Found, 17 Argyle Street, Bath; www.foundbath.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 115

N I G H T W E A R & B E A C H L I N G E R I E , I N F I N E S T T H E

7 Quiet Street Bath BA1 2JU T: 01225 330563 E: info@dressingroombath.com www.dressingroombath.com

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ECCO Bath, 2 Bath Street BA1 1SA

T&C’s £10 off only applies to the Shape collection. Voucher must be presented in store at the time of purchase. Only valid in ECCO Bath. Not in conjunction with any other offer and not valid on sale items.

Valid until 31st October 2016

OSKA 30 Upper Borough Walls Bath BA1 1RG T 01225 282824 Mon to Sat 10 am – 6 pm Sunday 11 am – 5 pm Shop online uk.oska.com

ad v e r ti s in g feat u r e h e a lt h a n d f i t n e s s

Pain in the neck...?

Dave Wilby and the experts at team breakthrough are the ones to call if you're in need of neuromuscular therapy that gets results

B

ox-based Team Breakthrough have been developing quite the reputation for personal training and physical transformations over the last 12 years. Their portfolio of results has attracted major interest for their quality and diversity from all areas of the country. There is, however, another area of the business that they have omitted from their advertising, for the simple reason that they have been fully booked for seven years – purely from word of mouth. Founder and CEO Dave Wilby is a neuromuscular therapist that gets results.

Dave’s vision is to help more people and develop a physical therapy centre to match the high standards set by his personal training facility. This process is well and truly underway and Dave now has a team of highly skilled therapists around him who can explain and successfully deal with clients' pain.

Ever wondered why your niggling injuries never go away? Why can you only get temporary relief from your pain? Do treatments last for a short time but inevitably reoccur time and time again? Are the patterns of pain all down one side of the body? And what's with those debilitating migraines? Well, the answer could be all in the neck according to Dave.

Dave‘s team at Breakthrough HQ have studied a globally pioneering approach to neck treatment. “Through all of my studies in the past I was always taught about the importance of aligning the atlas-axis," explains Dave. "This is the top two vertebrae of the spine before they

“Xxxx xxxxx xxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxx xxxxxx xxxxx xxxx xxxx xxxx”

Dave Wilby, founder and CEO of Team Breakthrough

meet the skull. There are so many nerves that enter the head through these vertebrae that it assumes extra relevance and importance.

“The effect of the atlas being out of place can have a disastrous effect on the rest of the body.

The supply to our brain takes a high place on the hierarchy of importance in the body and we will alter our posture significantly to prevent problems with our neural and vascular supply to this area. This will create patterns of dysfunction further down the body that may give symptoms such as pain in the back, shoulders, hips etc” he continues. “Now, you can treat the pain until you are blue in the face but unless the atlas and axis are aligned properly upon the scull then the body will ultimately resort back to its default pattern and the pain will continue.

"I would align the neck first, which would allow easier realignment of the pelvis and then resolve the pain issues from there.”

Often people don’t realise when their atlas axis is out of place, whether it be tilted, rotated, sheered to the side or translated forward. As Dave explains: “They may have had a bang to their head when little, a car crash 10 years ago, or nothing but years of postural strain, but it can be checked quickly and could be the missing detail in your physical therapy plan."

Alongside their expertise in neck problems, Team Breakthrough deal with all manner of pain and dysfunction but in a way that acknowledges the complexity of the body as a whole before zooming in on the details of the injury.

If you have any unresolved pain issues give the team a call on 01225 743801 and book in for a physical therapy consultation. More information about Team Breakthrough can be found on www.teambreakthrough.co.uk and they can be contacted on enquiries@ teambreakthrough.co.uk

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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 119

Photography courses in Corsham and local walking workshops For beginners and intermediates Get to grips with your camera, and be more conďŹ dent and creative with your photography

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Hip to be square With its constant buzz and energy, we spend the day at the cosmopolitan up-and-comer that is Kingsmead Square to discover its history, charms and mysteries. Photography by Jesper Mattias

By L i sa E va ns

I

t’s already known for its urban café scene, but it would be remiss to think that Kingsmead Square, which was laid out by architect John Strahan in the 1730s, is a one-trick pony. The atmospheric hub, which surrounds a magnificent 200-year-old London Plane tree, has become a front-runner in terms of social hotspots, drawing people in droves and rewarding them so well when they arrive. Not only does it host vibrant seasonal markets and fun days – like this month’s successful Jazz & Blues Festival – but the area is home to a distinct collection of traders, from a designer fashion boutique to a world-leading food and drink company which works with global brand leaders like Coca-Cola and Nestlé.

This year, the close-knit business community in the square formed a traders’ association, and its long-term aim is to expand the pavement dining space to make the area more pedestrian friendly.

“Kingsmead is a wonderful spot in which to sit and watch the world go by,” says Emma Savage who set up the traders’ association and 122 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

co-owns designer resale boutique Grace & Ted on the square. “The association allows us to work as a collective to organise events for the local community. We’re lucky to have the full support of our landlord, HPH Ltd, who has already done so much over the last 20 years to improve the square. Now our focus is to work hard to try and regenerate the area so it’s even more suitable for al fresco dining.”

Adrian Campbell-Howard, the co-owner of Society Café adds: “What Emma’s doing for the square, working closely with the landlords and the council, is amazing. Her drive and passion is completely inspiring.”

Adrian’s speciality coffee shop, which he owns with his wife, Jane, sits on the corner of a beautiful row of Georgian buildings in the square. The duo previously owned hotels in Marrakech and the Cotswolds before moving back to Bath where, in search of another hotel to run, they became engrossed in the coffee culture and decided to change their path.

“Coffee is more complex than wine with more sensory and flavour notes,” says Adrian who has

Clockwise from top left: Adrian CampbellHoward, co-owner of Society Café; Louis Lewis-Smith owner of The Dark Horse; Emma Savage, co-owner of Grace & Ted, with sales assistant Carol Taylor; Kingsmead Square becomes a natural place to congregate when the sun shines; Madeleine Cullen and Emma Garrood at Boston Tea Party

We love being slightly off the beaten track, surrounded by other

awesome

independents

PHOTO BY OLSI HUTKA (@OLSIHUTKA ON INSTAGRAM)

STREET LIFE

two cafés in Bath, one in Oxford and another due to open in Bristol in November. “We loved Kingsmead the moment we saw it. We had visions for a real café culture on the square – a bit like in some European cities with loads of cafés all sharing the space. It has changed so much since we took on the shop. I’d now describe it as a society square, a place for everyone.”

Other established spots are still going strong, such as the family-owned Boston Tea Party which opened in 1997, and newer favourites, like The Bath Coffee Company which moved onto the square two years ago, have been welcomed with open arms. Opened by Adrian Smith, who had worked in pubs for 15 years prior to pursuing his passion for coffee, The Bath Coffee Company – as well as his own commercial coffee roastery, Square Root Coffee Roastery – was born after Adrian began roasting his own coffee years ago.

And the drinks-made-with-love-and-care offering doesn’t stop there. Kingsmead happens to be the home of The Dark Horse ¬ one of the four best bars in the world, according to this year’s Spirited Awards. This one-of-a-kind new kid on the block – which opened in December – is owned by Louis Lewis-Smith who, for the past 18 years, has worked with some of the most celebrated cocktail bars across the globe.

“My last roles were as a bartender at London’s Milk & Honey, and brand ambassador for Hendrick’s Gin and Sailor Jerry,” says Louis.

“Hospitality is an art form that takes a lifetime to perfect. I’ve taken the sum of my experiences and tried to create an environment as warm as the friendliest local pub with a service style as good as any five-star hotel bar.”

Bar manager Sam Kershaw heads up the drink creation, and every element, down to the ice, syrups, cordials and shrubs, are made and grown by the staff.

You’ll find the same discerning attention to detail at The Kingsmead Kitchen (formerly named the Jazz Café) which was taken over by Edi and Geraldine Rosic almost two years ago.

The café is focuses on homemade offerings and almost everything is made on site, from the pickled peppers you’ll find in the smoked chicken salad to the fruity jam on the teacakes.

“We are very lucky to be located on Kingsmead Square,” says Geraldine. “It’s a pretty part of town and there isn’t much traffic, so customers can enjoy watching life on the square without having to breathe the fumes from cars or lorries.

We think that the square will become more and more lively thanks to its independent shops working together and doing everything they can to improve the atmosphere.”

Foodie spots are jam-packed into every corner of the square – not forgetting the colourful Bath Bus Station Fruiterers stall in the middle. The restaurants embrace myriad cultures – from Mexican at Mission Burrito and Thai at Yum Yum Thai to British at Seafoods, British-meets- w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 123

STREET LIFE Top: urban art at Society Café; bottom: manager Emma Antalova and chef Luke Gimson at The Kingsmead Kitchen

Italian at The Stable, oriental at Gong Fu Noodle Bar and Chinese at Peking which, this month, is undergoing extensive refurbishment to celebrate its 30th anniversary.

The area is also crammed with interiors expertise from the likes of Bath Contract Flooring, Avonvale Carpets and Silcox Son & Wicks which began life here in 1900 when Frank Silcox set up a business as a furniture maker.

“Kingsmead has changed a lot over the years but is fast becoming the new centre of the city,” says Charlie Wicks who co-owns the store with his father Steve. “It’s become a place of relaxation and it’s also framed nicely by the famous Kingsmead tree; the look of the area always changes with the seasons.”

It’s not just your home that can get a bit of beautification, the aforementioned Grace and Ted is an expert in pre-owned designer clothes, shoes and accessories for men and women – think Chanel, McQueen and Mulberry, but without the hefty price tags.

“For the new season, we have lovely things in store including Max Mara fur coats and Acne boots – we love autumn fashion the most,” says Emma who owns Grace & Ted with her mother, Sharon, and will be celebrating the shop’s fourth anniversary next month. “Part of the reason we love the square so much is because of the businesses that are in it. They’re owned by hardworking people and we all share the same passion for improving the area and making Kingsmead into the best part of Bath.

“There is nowhere else in the city we would rather be,” she adds. “We love being slightly off the beaten track, surrounded by other awesome and brilliant independents.”

One of those indies is The Orangery Laser & Beauty Clinic which has been in Bath for 24 years specialising in clinical and medical treatments.

“There’s a constant buzz and energy in the

KINGSMEAD SQUARE TRIVIA “Avon Street, the street leading to Kingsmead Square, was the red light district of Bath many years ago. The tenements were located here and it was a rough area. Many of the buildings in the area were bombed during the war and have been re-built.” – Adrian Campbell-

square which provides a village-like atmosphere,” says the clinic’s owner Suzannah Chamberlain.

“The area has recently been updated and can be described as ‘up-and-coming’, with new shops, restaurants and bars.”

Kingsmead is also home to worldwide food and drink consultancy Zenith International, which now also has offices in Dubai and New York after starting up in Bath 25 years ago.

“We love being in the square for its informal atmosphere, beautiful buildings, huge choice of places to eat and very central location,” says the business’s founder, and former University of Bath student, Richard Hall. “Zenith is a keen supporter of a fully pedestrianised, café-culture ambience.”

So, it seems the city’s focus is shifting, and this most eclectic of spaces, which boasts a characterful and intriguing indie business community, seems ideally sited to benefit, and deservedly so.

Howard, co-owner of Society Café

“We’re based in Roswell house, one of the oldest buildings in Bath, which is reputed to have a secret passageway between it and the Bath Abbey. It hasn’t been found… yet.” – Adrian Smith, owner of The Bath Coffee Company

“The building we’re in was once the residence of the Bishop of Somerset.” – Geraldine Rosic, co-owner of The Kingsmead Kitchen

“We have a false wall in the vaults on the lower level and absolutely no idea what lies behind it.” – Suzannah Chamberlain, owner of The Orangery Laser & Beauty Clinic

“Pretty much everything you see and touch in the bar is handmade by myself, friends and family.

My sister, Mishi May, is a clothes designer and creates all the aprons by hand. My other sister Bella makes our menus and business cards from her business Salad Creative.” – Louis Lewis-Smith, owner of The Dark Horse

“We are the longest established furniture company in the Bath area and are still run by the same family.

We’ve been in the same building for more than 116 years.” – Charlie Wicks, co-owner of Silcox Son & Wicks

“The building our shop is in has been a dress agency for 40 years.

Before that, it was a greengrocer, French polisher, bookmaker and a fish restaurant.” – Emma Savage, co-owner of Grace & Ted

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

Serving wonderful Thai food in light and relaxed surroundings...

Organic wines, coffee and free range produce. MSG free. Veggie options.

Take away available.

Restaurant CaffĂŠ 17 Kingsmead Square, Bath 01225 445253 www.yumyumthai.com

High Quality Dry Cleaning and Laundry Services

GIFT VOUCH E AVAILA RS BLE

NEWS FLASH...

We have recently added H - Solvent DF - 2000 to the range of solvents we use. This is one of the kindest and safest available to Dry Cleaners today. Ensuring top quality care for your precious clothes.

Van service available 6 Monmouth Place, Bath BA1 2AU Tel 01225 311595 Roadside parking outside shop for loading/unloading

We oer a wide range of high quality trees, shrubs, conifers, alpines and herbaceous perennials, complemented by a range of gardening products including composts, fertilisers, tools, seeds, terracotta & glazed pots and garden sundries.

Marsh Road, Hilperton, Wiltshire BA14 7PL Tel: 01225 571331 www.avonďŹ eld-gardens.co.uk For your ironmongery and general gardenware needs, visit James at our Bradford on Avon store.

J. ALEX BROWN All your hardware needs...

30 Silver Street, Bradford on Avon BA15 1JX Tel: 01225 862236

Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions

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

SPONSORED BY:

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

“YOU NEED TO BE PASSIONATE, DO YOUR HOMEWORK AND DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR ADVICE”

PROPERTY

HOUSE PARTY

Which local chef cast his net and became an award-winning restaurant owner?

Find out on page 136

Data shows Bath’s housing market remains strong, with more new homes than ever being built Pre-Brexit fears, post-Brexit nerves, recession talk and the poorly performing pound – seems none of this is having any real negative impact on Bath’s housing market. “Latest figures released reveal prime regional housing markets in locations such as Bath have remained in positive growth both year on year,” says Luke Brady, director and head of Savills in Bath.

This buoyancy and confidence in the market is reflected in the 809 new homes built in the 2015/16 financial year, representing the highest number since Bath & North East Somerset Council was created in 1996, and significantly higher than the previous long-term average of around 450 per year.

Of the 809 new homes built, 70 per cent were on

previously developed land. “By building more new homes, particularly on brownfield sites, we can help more local people get onto the housing ladder and own a home of their own, whilst at the same ensuring we also have the right mix of social and rented accommodation to meet our area’s needs,” says councillor Tim Warren. “To support this further, we have also earmarked more than £3.2 million in the council’s budget to support the delivery of new, affordable housing projects throughout the district in the coming years.”

For more: www.savills.co.uk For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk

£3.2m THE BIG NUMBER

How much the council has earmarked to support the delivery of new, affordable local housing projects in the coming years Find out more opposite

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 131

BUSINESS INSIDER

ONE TO WATCH

PAUL TAGENT Paul is the director of Bath Marketing Consultancy, an award-winning, full service, marketing consultancy. Here he talks about the joys of not having to wear a tie, working at Harrods and future plans for his ‘small but perfectly formed’ company Tell us a bit about your background I was born and grew up in Buckinghamshire, but was lucky enough to be able to call Guernsey my home from the age of 13 until my mid 20s as my mum and dad moved there. Amazing place; like being on holiday all the time.

What was your first job?

After bar work, my first proper job (according to my mum) was at Harrods. I worked in the action toys department selling computer games and remote control cars. While there I also quietly brokered my own deal to sell on commission for Nintendo.

How would you describe your work?

Our label is one of a marketing ‘solution provider’, working primarily with owner-managed businesses in Bath and the UK. What are the most rewarding aspects of your work?

Setting up my own agency seemed liked a natural progression really, following 20 years in the industry climbing the corporate ladder. Now I love the freedom of being able to steer my own ship and make my own decisions. I also haven’t worn a suit and tie for years.

Any recent jobs you’re particularly pleased about?

We’ve recently designed and built a new website for the Walled Garden in Mells and have had amazing comments from the client, and the increase in traffic to the site has meant we’ve updated their hosting bandwidth twice.

Who has influenced your career?

When I worked in an agency in Fleet Street back in the 1990s, I worked on the Cineworld account as they

were breaking into the UK. I had a line manager there who always said that marketing can be more about the relationships than the actual work.

How do you ensure your business stands out from your competitors?

We offer a great marketing package at accessible prices.

Also, a lot of marketing companies offer one core service like design or websites. We do the full gamut so can be totally transparent with the advice we give.

How does Bath Marketing Consultancy intend to develop?

I’d like to bring in some younger people, maybe on apprenticeships to show them the ropes in the hope they’ll enjoy things and grow with the business as employees. We never want to be a 20-man team as that would mean occupying a different space in the market.

BMC is small and perfectly formed.

How would you market Bath to a person who has never visited before?

Don’t eat or drink anything for a few days before your visit, and stay inside so you arrive hungry, thirsty ready to see loads of amazing things.

Tell us something about yourself that might surprise us...

I was once a qualified water ski instructor.

For more: www.bathconsultancygroup.com

Paul holidaying on the beautiful island of Guernsey where he was brought up

I LOVE THE FREEDOM OF BEING ABLE TO STEER MY OWN SHIP AND MAKE MY OWN DECISIONS

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BUSINESS INSIDER

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC

It’s a thumbs up to cycling fundraiser Craig Turner from Moorland Road’s Francis DIY & Hardware store

Heledd Wyn is new to the Mowbray Woodwards team

WYN-NING WAYS Heledd Wyn has joined Mowbray Woodwards as an associate solicitor. Heledd, who is an expert in Court of Protection, estate planning and care matters and will work with the private client team, says,“This firm was a natural choice for me given its focus on clients as individuals.” www.mowbraywoodwards. co.uk

CLINICAL FINDINGS Andrew Chambler, who currently operates as an orthopaedic surgeon at CircleBath, has been appointed as their clinical chairman. “Since joining in 2013, I have had the pleasure of working with an excellent group of people,” says Andrew. “I look forward to developing these relationships further as CircleBath faces new challenges.” www.circlehealth.co.uk

FORWARD PLANNING Nash Partnership has recruited Ciaran Andrews, Paul Miller and Richard Mather-Jones to their team.

The three have joined the Bath and Bristol studios of the architects’ practice.

“Through these appointments we are continuing to add to the breadth and depth of our design capability, urban renewal experience, conservation expertise and construction delivery,” says senior partner Edward Nash. www.nashpartnership.com

BATH RUGBY NEWS Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters • This might be the perfect challenge for those looking to combine their love of Bath Rugby FC and cycling – a 100-mile round cycling trip from Bath to Gloucester to watch the match at Kingsholm on 1 October. The fee of £175 includes a match ticket, hotel accommodation, breakfast and even a massage.

Cyclists are asked to commit to raising £200 for the Bath Rugby Foundation.

For more: www.bathrugbyfoundation.com • Former Bath Rugby captain Stuart Hooper is back in play with the club in a vital position. He has taken up the role of performance and player development director, in which he will work closely with the new director of rugby Todd Blackadder (see page 154 for our interview with Todd) in running the performance functions of the rugby department, including oversight of the academy, and the club’s leadership programme.

“This is an incredibly exciting role,” says Stuart.

“Whilst it’s very different from the weekly role of a professional rugby player, I am absolutely relishing it. It will enable me to help shape the culture and performance of the club over the long term.”

For more: www.bathrugby.com

“Which one called me a horrid little man?”

Coming fixtures: 17 September, 3pm, Aviva Premiership away game against Worcester Warriors 25 September, 3pm, Aviva Premiership home game against Leicester Tigers 1 October, 3pm, Aviva Premiership away game against Gloucester Rugby www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 133

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BUSINESS INSIDER

BREAKING NEWS

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

Back row: Carl Willson from Month Publications Ltd, leader of B&NES Council Tim Warren, Les Redwood and Ben Howlett MP; Front row: Bath Visitor Information Centre’s Wiebke Schmidt and Donna Lodge

TEAM WORK One issue many people of Bath are united in is the belief Bath City FC should be given a fighting chance to prove their worth, and now there’s a chance to show support.

The Big Bath City Bid has been relaunched with the vision of Bath City FC being run by the community, and, alongside previous pledgers, is looking for new supporters to raise their target by 28 September.

Former Bath Rugby chief executive Nick Blofeld, who joined the Big Bath City Bid drive last year, explains, “The key thing is to hit our target of £300,000 of shares, which will trigger the new management structure and also an injection of an additional £300,000 of medium-term, interest-free funding from a group of sympathetic Bid supporters.

This combination allows us to run the club effectively until proceeds from a future redevelopment of Twerton Park can be realised.”

For more: www.bigbathcitybid.org.uk

These guys go way back

A successful Bath City Bid and we’ll all be celebrating

TIME MACHINES

INDEPENDENT THINKING

Pearson May, the Bath chartered accountants and tax advisers, are celebrating their terquasquicentennial anniversary, which is 175 years for those of us not familiar with Latin-derived numerical names.

“The firm was founded by Mr H B Mundy,” explains Nick Oliver, a partner at the practice. “Its first recorded offices were at 7 Trim Street, with a quarterly rent of £5 and a bill of £1.10s 6d for coal to keep the ink wells from freezing.

“Mr Mundy described the firm’s core activity as ‘uniting knowledge of business with that of book-keeping’.”

Since those early days, Pearson May has continued to grow and, along with new clients, still acts for some of the city’s oldest businesses.

Bath’s indies and their independent spirit continues to thrive with a new guide book helping shoppers find their way around the retail maze of the city.

“Positive Projects for Bath’s Independents has teamed up with Visit Bath to publish The Bath Independent Shops’ Guide,” explains Visit Bath’s head of business development and partnerships Les Redwood. “We will be supporting the guide and assisting distribution by promoting it in the Bath Visitor Information Centre, which sees a footfall of 500,000 a year.

“The guide also features a unique ‘London Underground’ style map to encourage both wayfinding around the city and shoppers to circulate around Bath.”

For more: www.pearsonmay.co.uk

For more: www.visitbath.co.uk

BUSINESS GETS UP AND RUNNING

These runners mean business

Entries are now open for businesses and guests to take part in the Vitality Bath Half Marathon taking place 12 March next year.

“The Corporate Challenge provides work places with the opportunity to get involved with one of the UK’s most popular city centre road races, plus offers business exposure at a major sporting event,” explains race director Andrew Taylor from Running High Events. “Along with being a fantastic fundraising opportunity, it is

a unique team-building experience and a positive way to encourage fitness in the workplace.”

The 2016 Corporate Challenge saw over 50 teams from diverse business sectors represented, all of whom raised significant sums for charity, helping the event become one of the top three fundraising road races in the UK. For more:www.bathhalf.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 135

WINNER’S PROFILE

BATH LIFE AWARDS

RESTAURANT WINNER Sponsored by

THE SCALLOP SHELL

What was the highlight of the night when you won the Bath Life award?

I was immensely proud to stand on stage with my wife Lisa and collect the award on behalf of our family and restaurant team who have worked so hard to keep evolving and bettering what we offer to our customers every day.

What do you think helps make The Scallop Shell such a success?

We just try to cook the beautiful fish and seafood we get in as simply as possible. We will always aim to offer as much fish as we can from our shores, too – as an island we have a huge variety of sustainable fish we can eat, and sharing information about this with our customers is important to us.

Did you always want to own a fish restaurant?

I started my chef career in Bath and after working for Mitch Tonks at Fishworks in the city, I knew that I wanted to specialise in cooking fish and seafood.

He was a great inspiration to me and taught me a lot about UK fish.

PHOTO BY PAOLO FERLA

We catch up with Garry Rosser, chef and owner of the multi-award winning seafood restaurant The Scallop Shell, who talks fish, favourite meals and ideal dinner guests

What is your favourite meal?

You can’t beat a lovely, hearty fish stew on a chilly evening – with all the flavours of the fish and shellfish encapsulated in the sauce and some warm crusty bread to dip in. With a glass of wine – it’s the perfect meal.

Who are your six dream dinner guests?

My wife Lisa, Gary Lineker, Gordon Ramsay, Richard Bertinet, Chris Staines from Abbey Hotel’s Allium restaurant, and the comedian Rhod Gilbert.

Are there any foods you don’t like?

Pickled eggs.

MY WIFE AND I JUST CELEBRATED OUR 25TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY. I KNOW! I DON’T LOOK OLD ENOUGH, RIGHT?

How important has being an active part of the community been to your business?

Very important, and not just the support of the community of our loyal local customers, but also the city and local businesses as a whole. I always appreciate how Bath’s extremely talented chefs are all so generous and enthusiastic of each other’s ventures.

Where do you like to eat out in Bath when off-duty?

Allium is outstanding – Chris is an exceptional chef; Olé for tapas in a relaxed atmosphere; The King William in Tunley is great and it’s our local; Green Park Tavern for Sunday lunch, and The Pig Near Bath makes us feel instantly relaxed in a stunning location. However, I’m trying to eat out a little less now as my wife has got me doing some exercise!

What do you aim to achieve in the next couple of years?

We definitely want to bring more to the table in terms of knowledge about sustainable species available around the these shores, and find new ways of getting people as excited about fish and seafood as we are.

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

Mitch Tonks said to me, “Whenever things get tough, never stop walking, always just take a step forward. The moment you stop still, you’ll find it hard to start walking again.”

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

You need to be passionate, do your homework and don’t be afraid to ask for advice. Having a speciality has certainly helped me focus, but above all you have to believe in what you’re doing.

Tell us something that might surprise us?

My wife and I just celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary. I know! I don’t look old enough, right?

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

For more: www.thescallopshell.co.uk

Garry and wife Lisa celebrate The Scallop Shell’s win at the Bath Life Awards

l aw a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

TO BE OR NOT TO BE AN ACADEMY? Perhaps one of the fundamental and critical questions facing schools today. Here Gabby Corp of GOUGHS SOLICITORS examines the factors school leaders need to consider when they are thinking of becoming an academy.

I

n March this year the government announced that all state primary and secondary schools must become academies by 2022. These proposals would in effect have forced around 17,000 mainstream schools in England to be taken out of the control of local education authorities. However, soon after this announcement was made opposition was voiced, leading to a so called “climb down” from forced academisation.

A further announcement followed in May 2016, where it was confirmed that high performing schools (rated good or outstanding by Ofsted) could remain under local authority control if in fact, they chose to do so. The Government would then bring forward legislation to force the remaining schools into academisation, where it is proven that the local authority can no longer support these schools or where a critical mass of academy schools in the area already exists.

Commentators suggest that this will result in 100% of all schools becoming academies by 2022 as planned, and that this will inevitably

Gabby Corp Solicitor Education and Employment Specialist D: 01249 450082 T: 01249 444499 E: gabbycorp@goughs.co.uk

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

mean more Multi Academy Trusts (MATs). Whilst it is still possible to convert to a stand alone academy, the current preference is for schools to work collaboratively as part of a MAT and this article therefore focuses upon MATs. There are arguments for and against becoming an academy. In the pro academy camp, academisation is said to be the answer for failing schools enabling them to shape their own curriculum and manage their own budgets, setting them free from the shackles of local bureaucracy. Educational performance is said to be improved by giving autonomy to teaching professionals on the front-line and making them accountable for outcomes. However, according to the critics, giving responsibility to schools themselves does not necessarily drive up standards and there are concerns that some of the larger MATs are not delivering on progress and outcomes for pupils. There are also concerns that the role of a CEO is not performance linked and is over paid.

To be or not to be an academy is perhaps one of the fundamental and critical questions

facing schools today. It is a decision that no school should take without serious thought and planning. Each and every school is unique and what is right for one school may not be right for another. But what factors do school leaders need to consider when they are thinking of becoming an academy either by forming a new MAT with a group of other schools, or perhaps after an approach from a MAT or school to ask if they would be interested in partnering with them?

Whatever the circumstances it is essential that a thorough decision making and due diligence process is carried out before deciding whether or not to proceed.

The purpose of due diligence is to identify any potential risks by looking at aspects such as school standards, inspection outcomes, finance and leadership. Concerns in any of these areas does not necessarily prohibit a school from proceeding, but if concerns are raised then the next question is can any identified risks and liabilities be mitigated taking into account the capacity of the schools in the group? The importance of thorough and effective due diligence cannot be underestimated both in terms of getting the right fit for your school and in determining what might need to be improved, whether the MAT has the capacity to drive that improvement and how this is going to be managed financially.

The possible loss of autonomy is often of significant concern for schools who are thinking about voluntarily converting to a MAT. The most important consideration therefore is the vision and ethos of the other schools involved in the group and whether it is envisaged that a shared and collaborative ethos can be created.

“The possible loss of autonomy is often of significant concern for schools.”

a d v ertisi n g f eature l aw

This is essential as everyone needs to understand and buy into the vision of the MAT and the schools operated by it. Where a school is forming a new MAT with a group of other like minded schools, there is clearly more scope for influencing the form and structure of the MAT if the school is involved from the outset of the creation of the MAT rather than joining later.

Schools considering conversion need to be thinking about the governance, leadership and delegation structure of the MAT. As budgets are squeezed, so far as possible, they will also want to develop financial security and sustainability. This may involve making tough decisions regarding capacity, best use of resources and possibly pooling a proportion of the budget to fund central services such as finance and HR. It may also be prudent to consider varying the budget devolved to each school within the MAT in order to address particular needs or circumstances.

There are currently eight Regional Schools Commissioners (RSCs) who make decisions on behalf of the Secretary of State for Education regarding academy projects.

RSCs also have responsibility for taking action when an academy is underperforming, making recommendations on new free school applications and brokering agreements between underperforming maintained schools and academy sponsors.

Undoubtedly the RSC plays an important and pivotal role in approving academy projects and proposals so an early approach to the RSC is recommended particularly if a school needs help in finding suitable partners to form a MAT with.

If you are thinking about academy conversion or you have already decided that it is right for your school but you want to know more about what is involved in the conversion process, please contact us and we would be happy to come and see you on a no obligation, no cost basis.

Legal advice and support service for schools •

We understand that all schools are unique and face unique challenges.

•

Our legal advice and support service covers every area of law your school may need, including: - HR and Employment Law - Contracts - Data protection and information sharing - Governance - Company secretarial services - Land and buildings

•

You decide which services you need and we agree a maximum cost.

•

If the value of the work exceeds this agreed amount, then we absorb any additional costs.

Contact us today for your free, no obligation consultation Gabby Corp Education and Employment Solicitor 1 New Road, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 1EJ 01249 444499 www.goughs.co.uk

www.goughs.co.uk

Trowbridge Tel: 01225 762683

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 139

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

GRAND AND MAJESTIC 142 LIFELIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 112 II BATH CLIFTON I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

For a vast family home on the outskirts of Bath, look no further than this Grade-II listed magnificent Georgian beauty

By E V E LY N GR E E N

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 143 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 113

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

A

t a recent visit to the Museum of East Asian Art art on Bennett Street, we discovered the importance of the colour red – which stands for luck and happiness – in Chinese culture. How fortunate then, must be Avonestone, a Georgian gem on Bathampton Lane, inside which most rooms are dressed head-to-toe in the confident primary colour.

The décor might be eye-catching, but that’s nothing compared to the building itself – a striking Grade-II listed majestic beauty which stands tall and dominating on the outskirts of Bath.

The four-storey home, which boasts a games room, a two-room wine cellar, a gym and a sauna, is based within a charming village, less than two miles east of Bath’s city centre. Built in the early 19th century, and substantially remodelled during the latter half of the century, the impressive, projecting entrance porch is one example of the improvements and embellishments carried out during the late 1800s, and with its traditional moulded frieze, cornice on consoles and parapet with urns, it’s a wonderful precursor to the elaborate plaster work and domes found within.

Step inside and you’ll notice that, internally, much of the exquisite plasterwork is late 19th century, perhaps best seen in the large double drawing room. All of the main reception rooms are spacious and have spectacular views over the large rear landscaped garden and beyond. There is also access to a pretty, wrought iron balcony that runs the width of the house.

Much enhanced in recent years, the entire property commands an exceptionally high level of finish, and all improvements, both decorative and structural, have been executed with flawless taste and real attention to detail.

Avonstone succeeds in retaining its original period charm and is certainly suited for modern-day family living, extravagant entertaining, or used for social events. The 144 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise from top left: The Japanese-style area of the large garden radiates tranquillity; an interesting light feature hangs in the games room; natural light floods the immaculate kitchen; the two-roomed wine cellar is a particular highlight of the property

HOUSE NUMBERS

6,647

square feet of space

1

self-contained studio

£3.55M price

6

prominent period features and flourishes that have been so beautifully preserved add enormous character and gravitas to key rooms within the house, including the wonderful domed room with its door to the balcony.

As one would expect of a Georgian gem, the proportions are excellent and rooms that really draw us in include the light and airy kitchen-cum-breakfast-room which is wellequipped with an array of state-of-the-art appliances. It has double doors opening on to the garden and balcony and is lit by its large windows as well as an impressive central atrium – a smaller version of which can be found in the neighbouring servery. The good-sized dining room, with two points of access, lies next to the servery linking it to the kitchen, and there is also a study, boardroom and library accessed off the drawing room.

Upstairs, and upstairs again – via a quaint spiral staircase – you’ll find the principal bedrooms located on the first and second floors. On the first floor sits the luxurious master suite. There is a centralised fireplace and a contemporary en suite bathroom, too, which is wired for sound and connected to the main music system that runs throughout the house.

Venture down to the lower ground floor and marvel at the expansive, 232 square foot wine cellar as well as an informal sitting room, yet more bedrooms, a gym and a sauna.

Outside, bask in the ambience of the beautifully maintained, enclosed back gardens and terracing which provide the perfect, private setting for this impressive property; you’ll also find a detached, contemporary studio.

So, those seeking a historic slice of Georgian Bath which offers both privacy and immaculate presentation, plus a few outstanding surprises, should be lucky and apply here…

bedrooms

1

manicured garden

Savills Bath, Edgar House, 17 George Street, Bath BA1 2EN; 01225 474500; www.savills.co.uk

Red Lion Quarry Frome Road, Odd Down, Bath £335,000 Price Guide

Red Lion Quarry Frome Road, Odd Down, Bath £365,000 Price Guide

Red Lion Quarry Frome Road, Odd Down, Bath £365,000 Price Guide

‘ONLY TWO REMAINING’ properties in the 1st phase of this bold and contemporary development of 14 brand new homes by successful local developers Crossman Homes.

‘LAST REMAINING UNIT’ of the 2nd phase of this brand new exclusive tucked away cul de sac of only 14 townhouses on the South western corner of Georgian Bath.

First choice from a trio of three bedroom townhouses. Elegant interiors with modern fitted kitchens, bathrooms and luxurious en-suite shower rooms to master. Tucked away enclosed development close to local shops with gardens and allocated parking.

First residents now in occupation. Site build completion October 2016.

Comfort, convenience and quality of life effortlessly combined in these spacious brand new modern homes. 4 beds (including GF study/bed 4), large kitchen/diner and elegant FF living rm. Generous & stylish interiors, bathrooms and en-suite shower rm to master.

South facing garden and parking to front. Near completed units ready to visit by appts.

‘JUST RELEASED’ 3rd & final Phase of this exclusive tucked away brand new development by local developers Crossman Homes situated on the south western corner of Bath.

T: 01225 471116 crossmanhomes.co.uk

A choice of 5 ‘south facing’ units (FIRST ONE RESERVED ALREADY!). 4 beds (including GF study/bed 4, large kitchen/diner & elegant FF living room. Generous & stylish interiors with modern bathrooms & en-suite shower room to master. Parking to front and spit level garden to rear. Build completion October 2016.

T: 01225 325857

timbennettandassociates.co.uk

LD SO

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Bradford-on-Avon, £1,175,000

Kingsdown, £795,000

Kingsdown, £775,000

Bradford-on-Avon, £625,000

Holt, £620,000

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Monkton Farleigh, £675,000 LD

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Winsley, £695,000 SO

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Kingsdown, £775,000

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After strong summer sales we need similar properties for the busy Autumn market.

Bradford-on-Avon, £575,000

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

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Bradford-on-Avon, £515,000

North Bradley, £515,000

Limpley Stoke, £430,000

Bradford-on-Avon, £399,950

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Bradford-on-Avon, £450,000 LD

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Lower Westwood, £465,000 SO

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Upper Westwood, £485,000

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After strong summer sales we need similar properties for the busy Autumn market.

Bradford-on-Avon, £360,000

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

ad v ertising feature p r o p e r t y

DOCTOR IN THE ‘TOWN’ HOUSE Having lived in Bristol for a number of years in rented accommodation the lure to move into a brand new house close to the centre of Bath city centre proved too much for Dr Rufus Lebile

F

ed up with paying rent to someone else, Dr Lebile, who is better known as Tosin, took the decision to get his own place and is now the proud owner of a three-story townhouse at Crest Nicholson’s Bath Riverside development.

Enjoying the freedom his new home has now given him, the decision to buy was easy for the lifestyle loving Doctor of Philosophy who spends his time visiting the many restaurants, parks and theatres that he now finds on his doorstep.

As a contractor working in the aerospace industry he often commutes back to Bristol to work but also find himself travelling to other parts of the UK. So with Bath Spa train station a pleasant 15 minute walk along the pedestrian, car-free towpath it’s easy for him to get to work on the train.

Commenting on his new home Dr Lebile said: “I used to visit Bath a lot when I was renting in Bristol and always thought it would be a great place to live.

“When I decided that it was time to buy, my initial search was in Bristol but on another visit to Bath popped in to the marketing suite at Bath Riverside to see what was on offer.

“My intention was to buy an apartment but after I had spent some time with the sales team, it came about that I could afford one of the new townhouses on the Percy Terrace phase. The sales team were fantastic and soon after I was the owner of my first home. I’d particularly like to thank Christine (Hamilton) who was brilliant throughout the whole process.”

One of the many property types for sale at the award-winning development, the threestorey townhouses have been built using the distinctive light-coloured stone, typical of the

“The city is very multicultural with lots to see and do – it’s got everything I need.”

Dr Rufus Lebile at Bath Riverside

Georgian properties renowned the world over.

But with modern build technology have much lower running costs.

Dr Lebile added: “In a way my new home ticks too many boxes!

“Although it’s close to the centre of Bath it’s really quiet. It’s easy for me to walk to the train station and with travel time to London set to be reduced once the electrification of the main line has been completed, will bring the capital much closer which again is perfect for my work.

“The development is also surrounded by lots of beautiful parks and has a lot of open spaces giving a sense of openness.

“The city is also very multicultural with lots to see and do – it’s got everything I need.”

Mary Timlin, sales and marketing director at Crest Nicholson said: “Bath is becoming the location of choice for a lot of buyers including those from Bristol as well as further afield.

“The fact that the properties are brand new and are close to the centre of Bath places it in the box seat for many house hunters and we expect this interest to increase once,

as Dr Lebile says, work on the main line is completed.

“We’re delighted as well that we were able to find Dr Lebile his new home and pleased to hear he is enjoying life at Bath Riverside.”

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 149

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B AT H L I V E S

Q&A

F

ormer All Black Todd Blackadder’s recent arrival at Bath Rugby as the new director of rugby heralds an exciting time for the club. We take a few minutes out of his busy schedule to hear more about his visions and plans...

What does your new role at Bath Rugby entail?

I have overall responsibility for the rugby side of the club, including coaching the squad and getting them prepared as best they possibly can be for the games they play, and also the responsibility of developing the players into great young men.

What were you doing before you got the job?

I joined Bath Rugby from the Super 15 side the Crusaders, which is based in Canterbury, New Zealand. I’d coached them for eight years, so knew it was time for a change. Before that, I coached in Tasman Union, Scotland and Edinburgh, and played for the Crusaders, Edinburgh and the All Blacks (25 caps, four as captain).

What’s the best bit about your new job?

The challenge – it’s a new set of players, new country, new league. There are all these things for me to learn and adapt to, and that’s really exciting for me – it means that I can keep learning as a coach, and that will only make me a better coach for Bath Rugby.

And the most difficult part?

There’s no script. Also, we’re in a ‘people’ business, and whilst we are a team, there are 50 or so individuals who each have a different way of working, and whilst it’s not a burden, that is a challenging side of the job.

Will you be changing the style of play at the club?

No – we’re looking to enhance on the foundations that are already in place. We want to play a way the players enjoying playing, and that our supporters, partners and everyone associated with the club enjoys watching.

What were your first impressions when you arrived at Farleigh House?

It’s a spectacular place, but for me it was about the people here. Farleigh is full of great people, who are really passionate about Bath Rugby, and that was fantastic to walk into and become part of.

And how was your welcome meal, made by the academy players?

It was OK – not as good as the lunches the chefs cook for us, though! Every day feels like Christmas for me at the moment with all the fantastic food they provide. The academy boys have a long way to go before they’ll be cooking the team lunches. However it was a lovely way to be introduced to the club.

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

TODD BLACKADDER Bath Rugby’s new director of rugby talks Farleigh House, milking cows and jet boating How long have you been in Bath?

I don’t actually live in Bath yet; I’ve been here a couple of weeks, so the house hunting will begin when my wife, Priscilla, joins me over here – she’ll want a say in where we live. I’m currently living in a house on the Farleigh estate with our head coach, Tabai, who also joined in the summer.

Will your children be joining you here?

My two children – Shinae, who is 25, and Ethan, who is 21 – both live and work back in New Zealand.

What do you consider your biggest achievement professionally?

Captaining the All Blacks was an incredibly proud moment, and it was a huge honour to lead the Crusaders to three consecutive Super Rugby titles back in the early 2000s. However, I love being in an environment in which people develop and improve in every day – helping players reach their potential is something I really enjoy.

How do you like to spend your free time?

Jet boating with my son is definitely up there; we went halves on the boat, and it’s great fun.

I also really enjoy mountain biking with some good friends.

Your most treasured possession?

I have a green stone silver fern that I wear around my neck. It came from a river on the west coast of New Zealand where my family are from, so it’s a little bit of home.

Share a favourite spot in Bath so far?

The countryside is amazing here.

Your favourite shop, pub and restaurant in the city?

I’ve got a few on the list to try out that people have recommended to me, so I’ll be making my way round those. And of course, anywhere that does a good Sunday lunch.

Your favourite Bath vista?

The view from the Rec is pretty special to be honest – it’s so rare to find a rugby ground right in the heart of the city, and it makes you really feel you are part of the community.

What would you change about Bath if you owned it for a day?

I’d build either underground or high-rise parking areas to make it easier for people to get in and out of the city.

Surprise us…

Before rugby, I used to milk cows for a living.

Do you have a message for Bath Rugby supporters?

I’d just like to say to the supporters that this is their team – I’m coaching their team to be the best it can be, and I’m really grateful for the opportunity to live and work in one of the most beautiful places in the world whilst I do that. www.bathrugby.com

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