Bath Life – issue 347

Dining/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 347 / 1 – 15 SEPTEMBER 2017 / £3

@BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

STAYING POWER DISCOVER THE HOTELS

WITH THE MOST PERSONAL OF TOUCHES ISSUE 347 / 1 – 15 SEPTEMBER 2017 / CIT Y SENSES

BROAD DAYLIGHT SEE BROAD STREET

GOING GREEN

A CLOSER LOOK AT OUDOLF FIELD AT HAUSER & WIRTH

TOP OF THE CLASS HOW LOCAL

FROM A NEW PERSPECTIVE

SCHOOLS HELP PUPILS REACH THEIR POTENTIAL

BELLY LAUGHS JANE AUSTEN FESTIVAL -INSPIRED SHOPPING

COMEDIAN AND CHEF HARDEEP SINGH KOHLI SHARES HIS PASSIONS AT THE GREAT BATH FEAST

PLUS

KATHERINE RYAN BRINGS HER ACERBIC WIT TO BATH

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 347 / 1 – 15 SEPTEMBER 2017

Fest of both worlds

79

AND THE EAT GOES ON

The Great Bath Feast is coming to town

Celebrating its fifth birthday with a super-enhanced schedule of events and promotions across the city, the Great Bath Feast will once again dominate Bath’s social calendar this autumn, from 23 September to 8 October. One of the starry personalities heading up the programme is comedian, chef and veteran broadcaster Hardeep Singh Kohli (who you will have already spotted on our front cover) who will share his foodie stories, and cook for the audience, identifying the very best flavours that Bath has to offer (page 79).

It’s fair to say the city’s festival scene is thriving, with nationally renowned events covering music, literature, comedy, opera and Jane Austen, and most other genres in between. Speaking of Bath’s best known author, the 10-day Jane Austen Festival begins this month (or will have already begun, depending on when you’re reading this) and our photographers will be out in force capturing snapshots of Austenites in full Regency regalia; oh, and turn to page 80 where we celebrate the upcoming festival with an Austenthemed shopping guide.

Elsewhere, we chat with panel show favourite and stand-up comedian Katherine Ryan ahead of her show at Komedia Bath (page 58); take a tour of the city’s luxe hotels (page 36); visit a handful of the best local schools (page 96); and shine the spotlight on Broad Street where we catch up with its biggest fans who share the thoroughfare’s secrets, history and best bits (page 84).

Until next time...

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

FEATURES / ISSUE 347 / 1 – 15 SEPTEMBER 2017

A room of one’s own

36

THE LAP OF LUXE

The intriguing quirks and splendour within Bath’s top-rated hotels

130 Bath Lives

We talk to Miss Bath, Amelia Watt

REGULARS / ISSUE 347 / 1 – 15 SEPTEMBER 2017

THE ARTS 49 Arts intro The Bath Autumn Literary Fest

50 What’s on Our guide to the best music, theatre, events and exhibitions in and around the city

84

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 Assistant editor Samantha Walker sam.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors David Flatman, Jennifer Jennings Wright and Nic Bottomley Group 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 Michael Stevens michael.stevens@mediaclash.co.uk

58 Funny girl The acerbic wit of Katherine Ryan

63 Bookshelf Nic Bottomley goes back to nature

65 Film

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Matt Gynn matt.gynn@mediaclash.co.uk

FOOD 68 Restaurant Full-of-life flavours at the witty and original Timbrell’s Yard

77 Food & drink news

Yotam Ottolenghi, SW Chef of the Year and a very special offer

SHOPPING 79 Shopping intro Foodie fest galore

80 Editor’s choice Celebrating Bath’s most famous resident, Jane Austen

84 Broad Street baby Taking a wide look at this lovely street

EDUCATION 96 Learn from experience Schools talk education in Bath

PHOTO CREDIT @ROSSITERSOFBATH ON INSTAGRAM

From mythical creatures to royal outrage on the big screen

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

LIFEST YLE

PROPERT Y

108 Gardening

120 Property showcase

The landscaped gardens of Oudolf Field at Hauser & Wirth

A grand courtyard apartment

BUSINESS 111 Business insider News, views and interviews from the region’s professionals

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

DEPARTMENTS 13 20 31

Spotlight Society A man’s world

On the cover Comedian and chef Hardeep Singh Kohli will soon be on his way to The Great Bath Feast. For more, see page 79.

BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES

Kimberley Wyatt Jacqueline Wilson

Miranda Hart

FESTIVALS

BOOKMARKS

Liz Pichon

Nadiya Hussain

Maggie Aderin-Pocock

Calling all bookworms – the Bath Children’s Literature Festival 2017 is nearly here.

The event is Europe’s largest dedicated children’s literature festival and runs from 29 September – 8 October.

“Every year we celebrate authors, illustrators and storytellers and bring together words and story in the shape of 10 days packed with fun,” says John McLay, who is the festival’s artistic director together with his wife Gill.

This year’s festival includes a plethora of authors, illustrators, comedy heroes, celebrities, radio stars and fantastic storytellers. Festival fans will also have the chance to see Michael Rosen, Francesca Simon, Chris Riddell, Eoin Colfer, Derek Landy, Harry Hill, Ade Edmondson, David Baddiel, Nadiya Hussain, Maggie Aderin-Pocock, Ben Faulks, Christian O’Connell, Greg James, Chris Smith and Gemma Cairney to name but a few of the highlights.

Also among the line-up is the UK’s bestselling author Julia Donaldson, best known for The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom and Stick Man; Liz Pichon, the multi-talented author and illustrator behind the Tom Gates series; much-loved author and illustrator of the How To Train Your Dragon books, Cressida Cowell; Bath-born superstar, Jacqueline Wilson, best known for her books and CBBC series Tracy Beaker and Hetty Feather; and last but by no means least – actor, comedian and all-round national treasure, Miranda Hart who was featured in our last issue.

For more: www.bathfestivals.org.uk

Ade Edmondson

Cressida Cowell

Julia Donaldson

PHOTO BY JESSE LIROLA PHOTOGRAPHY

SPOTLIGHT

Musical maestro AKA Jake Bugg

CONCERTS

A BUGG’S LIFE Pretty as a picture

FESTIVALS

LIGHTING UP The return of the vibrant Bradford on Avon Arts Festival will see two weeks of entertainment and events in the historic working town.

The festival runs from 2 – 17 September, with events including a beautiful lantern parade, an art exhibition and musical comedy cabaret.

It has partnered with Wiltshire Wildlife, as well as co-hosting events with BoA Preservation Trust and the BoA Walking Festival, to make the schedule even busier.

There will be the Small and Beautiful art

exhibition, a quiz night, talks and a national poetry competition.

These culminate in a pretty lantern procession and end of summer party in Westbury House Gardens, with organisers saying the events are varied and inclusive with something for everyone.

The lantern procession will start from the Tithe Barn on 16 September at 7.20pm, before making its way along the illuminated river bank. Food stalls and live music will await revellers.

For more: www.boaartsfestival.com

Chart-topping singer Jake Bugg is bringing his acclaimed blend of blues, folk and rock to The Forum, Bath.

The 23-year-old’s self-titled first album went to number one, with critics loving his unique sound.

His next album, Shangri La, also went multi-platinum, and his new album, Hearts That Strain, was recorded in Nashville.

That gave Jake a chance to play with The Memphis Boys, who have worked with musical greats Aretha Franklin and Dionne Warwick. Jake says, “They’re old guys but they’re amazing. It was 10 to five and then that was it. They’d pack up and we’d done two or three tunes. It was a mad vibe being from England and meeting these absolute legends and then cutting some tracks with them.”

Jake says his gig at The Forum is part of an ‘intimate solo acoustic tour’ with fans and critics alike hailing his ability to fuse different genres of music.

7.30pm; The Forum, Bath; £22.50; www.theforum.co.uk

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Carpets

Rugs

Vinyls

Image shows, Karndean Luxury Vinyl Design Tiles

Commercial

Adventures in party-going

Jan Andrews and Ian Woodhouse

SCENE

SPONSORED BY:

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

LOOKING GREAT AT 250

Wayne and Laura Weatherall

The sun shone for an event at The Royal Crescent to celebrate 250 years since the foundation stone was laid. Residents of the iconic crescent and The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa came together for the occasion, and enjoyed live music and delicious food and drink.

Colin Clarkson-Short, Chris Gilbert, Natalie Thompson and Regina Gilbert

Photos by Chris Daw www.chrisdawphotography.com Paul Dowling, Maggie Higginson and Martin Higginson

John Piper and Sam Small Serena Dunlop and Adam Bigg

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

MIchaela Urikova and Adam Majek

Charlotte Curtis, Miles Allen, GeorgiaLouise French and Eleanor Carr

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

SWEDISH CELEBRATION

Claire and Nick Potts, John Moon and John Curtis

150 guests enjoyed drinks and canapĂŠs when the Bath branch of Handelsbanken celebrated its 10th birthday with a Midsummer Party at the Roman Baths.

Photos by Neil Watson www.neilwatsonphotography.co.uk Michaela and Rob James

John Moon and Chris Johnson

Rachel Feilden and Anthony Battersby Hayley Pomfrett

Colin Skellett and Theresa McDermott Julie and Peter Knee

Sean and Rachel Badrick

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

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SOCIETY

MODEL BEHAVIOUR

SPONSORED BY:

Sarah Smerdon, Vickie Jones and Kayleigh Whittaker

Chloe-Jasmine Whichello was among the models taking to the catwalk for a ladies networking event at LK Bennett in Bath. The event was held by Monahans, in conjunction with LK Bennett, Jera Inc Models and Bath Academy of Media Makeup (BAMM), to celebrate its expansion.

Photos by Estienne Sheppard www.estiennephotography.com

Sarah Maya and ChloeJasmine Whichello

Guests got a glimpse of the latest fashions

Laura Green, Tori Osborne and Amba Chawla Lucy Bale, Jackie Bale and Sarah Thornber

Ellie from Jera Inc Models Susanne Blair and Linda Parr

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

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

THE MUNCH BUNCH Foodie app CityMunch held a party at Piattino to celebrate its launch in Bath. Thirty food lovers attended the event, with wine and Italian snacks served. “We received a fantastic amount of support for CityMunch from the foodie community of Bath,” says founder Rob Lynch.

Jordan Harry and Anya Johal

Jack Cowell

Photos by Derryn Vranch www.derrynvranch.com

Heather and Allan Gait

James Howells, Robert Lynch, Emma Drew, Tomas Wright and Maxime Drugeon

READY TO MINGLE Bath-based philanthropists met investors and charities at an event at St John’s Foundation.

The networking event was held by Bristol and Bath Regional Capital, Business West, communications agency The House, and the foundation.

Richard Pendlebury, Andy Robb, Claire Fenner, Nick Houghton Brown, Richard Hiscoke, Joy Saunders, Ed Rowberry and James Durie

Dave Brennand

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

The event was designed to help people network

Dan Shreeve

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

SCRUM ON DOWN

Rubbing shoulders for the CLIC fundraiser

The Rec was the fitting setting for a rugby fundraiser in aid of CLIC Sargent. The event was hosted by The Private Office, Savings Champion, CLIC Sargent and Godfathers Rugby. Eighty guests took part in a touch rugby coaching session, games and enjoyed a hog roast and bar.

Photos by Tim Woolf www.woolfandrogersphotography.com

Back row: Ryan Surry, Phil Groves, Peter Willis, Will Luangrath, Jordan Anderson; front row: Vicky Webb, Chris Martin, Garth Hannarford and Rachel Webster The Osborne Clarke team jumping for joy

Back row: Jack Painter, Matt Green, Kyle Anderson, Ross Denton, Josh Jones, Mike Gibbs; front row: Charlotte Hogan, Gemma Maher, Tara Taylor, Oli Whitehead and Nick Raine

BIRTHDAY BASH

Tim O’Sullivan, Tony Williams and Philip Bailey

A summer garden party was held to mark Regency Offices 10th birthday. “Thanks to everyone who came and shared this special event with us and made it such a great evening; we will continue to do our very best to provide great value serviced offices for many years to come,” says Tony Williams, Regency Offices managing director.

Colino Violante and John Arroyo

Lauren Robins and Tracey Radford

Phil Taylor, Stephanie Crouch, Tod Harrison, Gayle Taylor and Michael Beaver

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

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A MAN’S WORLD

DAVID FLATMAN

PRIDE OF PLACE Luxuries come in all shapes and sizes, but, for Flats, the majority of them can be found in Bath

I

recently had one of those ‘lottery win’ chats with a gaggle of my rugby TV chums during an extended period of downtime. You know the one: what cars would you buy, what toys would you accumulate in week one, and where would you buy houses. Naturally, we all had a swanky crash pad in an upmarket part of London, and we all settled on a large villa somewhere hot (mine being in Bargemon, Provence), even though we all hate the heat. Interestingly enough, though, only four of our group of five fancied a place in Bath, with the odd one out declaring it “too out of the way” to be a real option.

And his perspective is an interesting one. In one sense I’m inclined to defend Bath by listing all the fun things we all do to keep ourselves amused. I thought of the rampant coffee shop culture and all the laidback-butwired socialising it encourages. I thought of all the sports available on our doorstep for the moments when the almond croissantinduced guilt takes control and we feel the need to balance the books; we have running, yoga, Pilates, hockey, CrossFit, and rugby ready to play. We even have Brazilian jiu-jitsu, should we want to get exotic as we work on our cauliflower ears. I thought of all the fabulous places to eat different meals, from steak suppers to fruity, fresh breakfasts. I thought of all those highly successful businesses that have either been created here, or have decided that this is the place to be, and are making some serious money. I thought of the

great schools available for our children, and of the environment in which they will grow up. Gosh, I thought in my poshest internal voice, aren’t we just so lucky to be here.

“You’re not wrong, mate,” is how I responded, though, “and the parking’s crap, too.” I didn’t go along with him in order to maintain the flow of the conversation, more to passively protect our little bubble from such big-city doubters. You see, our city is not one which ought to require a sales job in order to help folk love it. The chap in question has spent plenty of time here over the years, so if he doesn’t get it by now then perhaps he’s just NOSP (not our sort of person).

As for Bath being too far removed from the supposed action of London, well, I’m about to board the GWR from Bath Spa for a quick meeting in town just two hours from now. Hardly Mongolia, is it?

And I’ll be home to walk the dogs at the racecourse before supper.

I’ve heard that all this chat of one-hour trains to London once lines are electrified is vastly exaggerated and that the improvement will be more like five minutes. Well I, for one, am quite happy with that.

After all, we don’t want our Bath bubble to become too accessible. I reckon we’re just about the perfect distance from the real world. If I won the lottery, I’d buy another house in Bath.

IF I WON THE LOTTERY, I’D BUY ANOTHER HOUSE IN BATH

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

F HERE to STAY

or those of us who live in Bath, it’s a shame that we have to miss out on the luxury of staying in the city’s many enticing hotels and guest houses. So, with that in mind, we visit 12 of them to discover their points of difference, intriguing idiosyncrasies and charm.

And, thankfully, in most of them, even if you’re not spending the night, you can still enjoy their restaurants, afternoon teas, and sumptuous spas while picking up plenty of interior style inspiration.

THE ONE WHICH CHILDREN WON’T TIRE OF

WOOLLEY GRANGE

Take a look at the luxuries, intriguing quirks and splendour available on our doorstep within Bath’s top-rated hotels, guesthouses and apartments

By L I SA E VA NS

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

Offering families the luxury of time together is Jacobean manor house Woolley Grange where you’ll find a home-from-home atmosphere with plenty for children to do.

“The 14 acres of grounds are a veritable adventure playground – with chickens, ducks, Simon the rabbit and Rosie the pig,” says Caroline Mackay, marketing manager. “There is the Good Life Garden where children can play on the vintage tractor, take part in the gardening club, or select their breakfast egg from the hen house.

“There’s the White Witch’s House too,” she adds.

HOTELS

LUXURY

IS OFTEN DEFINED AS

BETTER THAN WHAT YOU HAVE AT HOME

“Children can pick herb potions from the Victorian walled garden and climb inside this tiny house to leave a note with their potion for the White Witch. Add to this the football nets, the croquet lawn, the trampoline, a cinema, a huge Connect 4, badminton, and the Woolley Sheep Trail, and you’ll start to understand why children never get bored and parents can relax.”

Bedrooms are furnished in a country style with luxurious feather bedding, Welsh wool blankets and country antiques.

“Our John Baskerville room is probably our most interesting,” says Caroline. “It’s housed on two floors and it’s been given its name because the young John (son of the owner) carved his name on one of the window panes in 1780 and you can still see it today.”

Even more luxurious is the spa where you’ll find heated indoor and outdoor pools, a steam room, sauna and treatment rooms.

Going the extra mile: “There are many touching family moments,” says Caroline. “Recently, Jokin, our restaurant supervisor, saw some little boys playing with water pistols. Another little boy was crying as he didn’t have a water pistol, so Jokin popped out and bought him one out of his own pocket. The little boy was so pleased.”

Woolley Green, Bradford on Avon www.woolleygrangehotel.co.uk THE STYLISH AND ECCENTRIC ONE

THE QUEENSBERRY HOTEL This page, top to bottom: Woolley Grange prides itself on being familyfriendly; The Queensberry Hotel is currently putting the final touches to a quarter-of-a-million-pound refurbishment; opposite page: The design of Hotel Indigo’s vault rooms is inspired by the history of Bath

Having just announced the appointment of a new hotel manager, and as they are currently putting the finishing touches to a major refurbishment, The Queensberry Hotel has raised the bar of standout destination hotels even higher.

The stylish and slightly eccentric hotel – the result of four old townhouses coming together – prides itself on combining old-fashioned attitudes

to service and detail with plenty of sophisticated, modern comforts.

“While others go for more ostentatious forms of luxury, our luxury is the quality of the experience and the hotel’s refinement,” says co-owner Laurence Beere. “Hospitality should not be complicated, it should offer somewhere to sleep, somewhere to eat, and it should be delivered by people who care about people.”

He believes what sets The Queensberry Hotel apart from other hotels is that it, along with its refined 3 AA-rosette restaurant, Olive Tree, is truly independent.

“Helen and I have owned the hotel for nearly 15 years, from our background in the finest hotels such as The Savoy and Claridge’s,” he says. “In today’s frantic pace of life, it is important that we remember to take time out for a little while to enjoy the finer things of life.”

Luxury extras: It is one of only a few hotels in Bath that offers valet parking.

4–7 Russel Street, Bath www.thequeensberry.co.uk THE ONE IDEAL FOR LARGER GROUPS

BATH BOUTIQUE STAYS

“Luxury is often defined as better than what you have at home,” says Marcus Whittington, managing director of Bath Boutique Stays – holiday houses and apartments which are dotted around central Bath. “I think this sums up what we aim to achieve. Organic shampoos and oversized rainwater showers are simple offerings and standard in all our Bath properties that we renovate fully and own.

“Bath hotels are the third most expensive in the UK,” he adds. “For larger group sizes, sharing a luxury Bath townhouse with us always gives better value, and offers you your own unique, contemporary surroundings.”

One of their most luxuries properties is Mr w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 37

HOTELS

Darcy’s Abode, the new flagship property, which has seven bedrooms, five bathrooms and some great social spaces for dining and relaxation. A stay in a Bath Boutique property also means you’ll receive freshly ground coffee from Colonna & Small’s, prosecco on arrival, and access to Netflix, for quiet evenings in.

Going the extra mile: “For very tired parents who arrived after a rather long, stressful journey, we once provided a nanny from Norland College, Thermae Bath Spa passes and Bath Rugby tickets with our compliments.”

1 Bedford Street, Bath www.bathboutiquestays.co.uk THE ONE INSPIRED BY THE CITY

HOTEL INDIGO BATH

Opening in spring next year, this is a boutique hotel that combines both local experiences and modern design.

“Bath is a place like no other – where past and present cultures combine,” says general manager Simon Hall. “And that’s what we’ve tried to bring into the design of the hotel. Oversized murals and creative artworks that reflect the unique character and geography of our surroundings adorn the walls, and our vaulted suites, with beautiful brick arches, are moulded from the very fabric of the neighbourhood in a way not seen in the city before.”

The style of the bedrooms is reflective of the 18th-century Georgian building but also caters for modern tastes. And The Elder restaurant prides itself on artisanal offerings.

“Restaurants and bars are the heart and soul of any good neighbourhood, therefore it’s only right that our restaurant is bursting with culinary delights,” says Simon. “Come and visit our hanging room or our extensive wine cellar as we want you to truly connect with and understand our ethos.”

Luxury extras: In the 166 bedrooms, expect king-

size Hypnos beds, Egyptian cotton linen, Nespresso coffee machines, and spa-style bathrooms with roll-top baths and rainfall showers.

South Parade, Bath; www.bath.hotelindigo.com THE WONDERFULLY ECLECTIC ONE

NO.15 GREAT PULTENEY

A high level of detail and comforts that you wouldn’t normally expect to see is what sets No.15 Great Pulteney apart from other hotels in Bath, according to managing director Jonathan Walker.

“We like to do things our own way, which is why a chandelier of lost earrings, a model of Big Ben and a life-size doll’s house are some of the first things you’ll see at No.15 Great Pulteney,” he says.

“The décor is eclectic and fun and there are top-ofthe-range Dyson hairdryers in every room.”

The restaurant comes complete with an old chemist’s shop filled with hundreds of old apothecary bottles, and their very different cocktail list takes the form of a deck of playing cards. One of their most loved features, however, is their complimentary larder from which overnight guests can help themselves to the likes of Marshfield Ice Cream, popcorn and the chef’s homemade treats.

What to look forward to: New for autumn will be the Spa Suite, which will feature a Jacuzzi bath and steam room in the vast 30 square-metre bathroom. And Spa 15, beneath the pavements of Great Pulteney Street, is opening this year too.

15 Great Pulteney Street, Bath www.no15greatpulteney.co.uk THE ONE WITH A HIDDEN SECRET

THREE ABBEY GREEN

This up-market, Grade-II listed guest house – which has been owned and run by the same family for 15 years – is nestled in a small, period square in the centre of Bath, but you wouldn’t necessarily know this was the middle of a bustling city.

“It is so peaceful in Abbey Green,” says owner Nici Jones. “We have 10 individually decorated w 38 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Above: The individually styled rooms at Hotel Indigo are all decorated with Bath-centric artworks, such as this mural of historic books about the city; below: The Pig’s rustic, country-house charm is apparent throughout

FOR VERY

TIRED PARENTS, WE PROVIDED A NANNY FROM NORLAND COLLEGE

HOTELS

rooms. Try our flagship room, Lord Nelson, if you want full-on traditional splendour.”

Breakfast at the B&B is a hyperlocal affair.

Great Pulteney Street-based cookery teacher Simi Rezai-Ghassemi makes the unusual jams – from ingredients picked at her Bath allotment – which are served at breakfast, and there are many other local suppliers ensuring the meat, eggs, bread and apple juice only travel a few miles.

The unexpected: “Early in our ownership of the B&B, my stepfather was always hoping to find a secret. He happened to unearth an internal vault.

Now we use it as an underground office. Imagine the guests’ surprise when we completely disappear into a cupboard in our dining room.”

3 Abbey Green, Bath; www.threeabbeygreen.com THE ONE WITH AN EXCLUSIVE SPA

THE BATH PRIORY

Exuding luxury in every feature – from its Michelin-starred restaurant to its exclusive Garden Spa by L’Occitane, the only one in the UK – The Georgian house hotel embodies the superb architecture in Bath. It’s also surrounded by four acres of mature gardens, tended by Chelsea Flower Show silver medal-winner Jane Moore.

The restaurant’s head chef, Michael Nizzero, brings a wealth of experience to the role having most recently worked at The Ritz, and offers a memorable culinary journey.

“When people are deciding to take a break, they are looking for the sense of escapism that comes with luxury,” says general manager Paola Cassotti. “Our guests can expect fresh flowers, fruit, sparkling pressés and mineral water awaiting them, along with in-room amenities including L’Occitane products, slippers, fluffy robes and luxurious Vispring beds.

Memorable moments: “We presented a ring under a cloche midway through dinner just before the gentleman dropped to one knee, with the sommelier on hand to present celebratory champagne after she said ‘yes’,” says Paola.

Weston Road, Bath; www.thebathpriory.co.uk THE ONE WITH NATURAL THERMAL WATERS

THE GAINSBOROUGH BATH SPA

In the opinion of general manager Mohamed Safwat, creating a true luxury experience all hangs upon the level of care invested in the environment and the service to the guest.

“We tailor every guest’s journey to ensure that they feel our commitment at every turn,” he says.

“Upon check-in, a member of our reception team takes the guest on a tour, and, once escorted to the comfort of their meticulously decorated rooms, the guests might choose to wander down to the opulent spa, where they will be personally looked after by our friendly spa team.

“Then they might head to our fine dining restaurant to try our award-winning head chef’s food, or perhaps they’ll go to the bar, where our artful bartender will create them a bespoke cocktail. Otherwise, they might go out in Bath and see the sights, in which case our concierge will give them an annotated map along with various recommendations, and an umbrella if necessary.

“Having an elegant comfortable base to which you can retreat is something worth treating yourself to,” he adds. “We have rooms that really stand out: the Bath Spa Suite, which includes unlimited spa access as well as in-room thermal water; and our Courtyard Room which opens out onto, as you may guess, a private courtyard.

Special touches: The spa has rare access to Bath’s naturally warm mineral rich waters, and all guests receive complimentary Bath House experiences.

Beau Street, Bath www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

Left: the plunge pool and gardens at Lucknam Park; opposite page, from top: The Gainsborough Bath Spa’s dominating façade; the beautiful terrace at The Priory; just one of the quirks at No.15 is a doll’s house which contains tea-making facilities

THE ONE WITH 500 ACRES

LUCKNAM PARK HOTEL & SPA

“From the moment you set eyes on the Palladian mansion, you know you have arrived somewhere special,” says Silmiya Hendricks, director of sales and marketing. “Antique furniture combined with contemporary touches ensure our historic rooms are true to their past and provide everything you’d expect from a five-star hotel in the 21st century.”

The spa is surrounded by walled gardens, trees and manicured lawns, and guests can explore the 500 acres of grounds by foot, bike or horseback as they soak up the countryside views.

“With the busy lifestyles we lead, everyone deserves time out to indulge in some pampering and to experience the finer things in life,” adds Silmiya. “Our two Grand Master suites are our most luxurious rooms. Elegantly decorated with a large sitting area, an open fireplace, a dining table, writing desk, stately four-poster bed, and fine marble bathroom, this classic design is a stylish take 40 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

OUR BACKGROUND IS IN THE SAVOY AND CLARIDGE’S

HOTELS

spectacular suites for the full RCH experience. Sit in your own private living room curled up with a book, a Nespresso coffee and complimentary Hotel Chocolat treats in one of the 11 suites which combine old-world elegance with modern luxury.

16 Royal Crescent, Bath www.royalcrescent.co.uk THE ONE WITH FOOD AT ITS HEART

THE PIG NEAR BATH

Set in the countryside where you’ll feel a million miles from anywhere, The Pig offers what Sarah Holden, hotel director, describes as “pure escapism from daily life”. And she says there is an obsessive commitment to home-grown and local produce too.

“We are so much more than a hotel,” she says.

“We’re really a restaurant with rooms. Fantastic food is what we do, and the kitchen garden sits at the very heart of that. We celebrate the seasons and use only the best, freshest and most authentic foods and ingredients. Anything we can’t grow, we try our best to get within 25 miles, really showcasing the abundance of local produce.”

Add to that the 29 individually decorated bedrooms with walk-in, monsoon showers and roll-top baths and you can really start to relax. To top it all off, you’ll find the Potting Sheds spa rooms tucked away in the trees where you can enjoy a Bamford facial or reflexology while you lay back and listen to the birdsong outside.

Expect to see: Wild fallow deer grazing just yards away while you enjoy a home-infused cocktail on the terrace or play a little croquet on the lawn.

Hunstrete, Pensford, Near Bath www.thepighotel.com

on what is quintessentially British.”

Little luxuries: There are ESPA toiletries, robes, slippers, chocolates and fresh fruits on arrival, plus valet parking and 24-hour room service.

Colerne, Chippenham; www.lucknampark.co.uk THE ONE THAT EXUDES MODERN ELEGANCE

THE ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL & SPA

This AA 5 Red Star-status hotel is situated in the world-famous landmark of the Royal Crescent.

“Luxury no longer necessarily means stuffy surroundings,” says marketing manager Sarah Moon. “We believe that we offer relaxed luxury at its very best. Make use of the valet parking service and walk through the elegant Georgian doors to enter a world where impeccable service and warm greetings combine to create an unforgettable visit.

“The hotel offers 45 individually decorated rooms and suites, many with beautiful views of the hotel’s one-acre private gardens or over the spectacular Royal Crescent Lawn,” she adds. “Views such as this are so rare in a city centre hotel, and they offer complete solace from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s an unrivalled location.”

Another luxurious treat that can be found within the grounds is The Spa & Bath House, which was fully rejuvenated last year.

The ultimate experience: Stay in one of the

THE BRAND NEW ONE

APEX CITY OF BATH HOTEL

Having just opened its doors, everything about this hotel is brand new, and to celebrate the opening, they’re offering a luxury package: the Ultimate Bath City Break.

“It includes a stay for two, including breakfast, a glass of prosecco, access to the Roman Baths, the Fashion Museum and Victoria Art Gallery, as well as a voucher for the Thermae Bath Spa,” says general manager Tim O’Sullivan. “It’s available until 20 November and is perfect for anyone who wants luxury and the chance to soak up some of Bath’s famous culture.”

As for the food, head chef Ben Abercrombie is award-winning, has been trained by some of the best chefs in the country, and his menus offer French cooking with a modern British twist. And another luxury to look forward to is the pool, which will provide an escape for guests, and anyone looking to get more active can use the fully equipped gym.

Going the extra mile: “Our porter carried a guest’s luggage all the way to the train station recently,” says Tim. “His arms were about two inches longer when he got back. Our job is to create magic moments by going the extra mile; after all, that is what brilliant hospitality is all about.”

James Street West, Bath; www.apexhotels.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 41

ad v ertisi n g feature H o t e l I n d i g o

HOTEL INDIGO BATH SET TO IMPRESS

Romance, mischief, luxurious splendour and sophisticated style await guests at Hotel Indigo Bath

T

he defining feature of each Hotel Indigo is the way the neighbourhood story is wrapped up in the design, immersing each guest in that destination’s culture and history. Each hotel is part of the pulse and the rhythm of a place, drawing on the story of its local area to inspire every aspect, right down to those small intricate details that contribute to a truly luxurious stay.

ROMANCE and MISCHIEF

Hotel Indigo Bath is a boutique hotel set to open on South Parade in 2018, and the culturally diverse city of Bath gave the designers a plethora of material to play with.

Henry Reeve, IHG’s Design and Innovation Director, says, “People know about Bath’s romantic side: Jane Austen, Mr Darcy, the Georgian architecture, but then you also have the scandal, people gambling away family fortunes, the invention of the gossip columns… That’s where the designers can start to have fun.”

The theme of ‘Romance and Mischief’ is reflected in every aspect of design, right through to the hotel bathrooms. The guest bathroom can say a lot about a hotel and can truly make or break a guest's stay, but it’s an area that perhaps is overlooked in importance by some hoteliers. For Hotel Indigo Bath, it was more crucial than ever to get the design right for the bathroom and to continue the exceptional standards of interior seen throughout the rest of the hotel.

Simon Hall, General Manager at Hotel Indigo Bath, says, “With the 'Romance and Mischief' theme in mind, each guest bathroom is bright and airy in design, with a classic yet whimsical feel to it. The design is unfussy and uncomplicated, but exudes an air of luxury and class thanks to its stylish finish and subtle accents.”

LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT

Whilst love at first sight comes from the beautiful aesthetics of the hotel room, this love is strengthened by the small details that the hotel guest will come to discover, such as the toiletry products in the bathroom.

Hotel Indigo Bath has partnered with Bramley, a bespoke bath and body products company with roots deeply set in the British

Hotel Indigo Bath's rooms are luxurious and full of personality

countryside of Somerset. Simon continues: “It is part of our ethos to work with local suppliers so we were delighted to find Bramley.” The quality of the products can give guests an insight into what to expect throughout the rest of the hotel, not to mention a real sense of place. “Upon arriving in their room, many hotel guests will head to the bathroom first to check out what products are on offer,” says Jen Herman, Commercial Director at Bramley, “They will assess the quality of them and whether they are better than those they brought from home, which ultimately is what we all want when staying at a hotel.”

SURPRISE and DELIGHT

The fresh and simplistic yet quality feel of Bramley’s products aligns perfectly with the luxury and characterful personality of Hotel Indigo Bath.

Inspired by the beauty and therapeutic properties of plants, Bramley transforms a love for nature into a luxurious scented

collection for bath, body and home. Each Bramley’s product, with its own bespoke set of ingredients chosen for their remarkable properties and compelling scents, is instilled with the power to restore and revive.

Guests want to be surprised and delighted by the products in their hotel bathroom. The chances are they won’t have seen or tried that product before, but after testing them out they wish they could use them every day.

“That’s what we’re going for when we create each Bramley product,” says Jen, “Our aim is to create something that will make each hotel guest's stay extra special and extra memorable.”

bath.hotelindigo.com

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

s Wedd7i5n.g00 from ÂŁ RSON E PER P

Are you organising a small intimate wedding or a large family affair?

Homewood Park Hotel & Spa is the ideal venue. Set in ten acres of wonderful gardens and parklands, we have the perfect setting for your special day.

Contact our wedding planner on 01225 723731 or email weddings@homewoodpark.co.uk to arrange a personal viewing.

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

www.peartreewhitley.co.uk

H E AT I N G S E r v I c E S a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

first class john williams heating services delivers an excellent service for customers

J

ohn and Debbie Williams set up John Williams Heating Services Ltd more than 13 years ago.

Today they employ a team of experienced heating engineers, plumbers, bathroom fitters and apprentices working to an ethos of strong customer service. The team at John Williams Heating Services pride themselves on being reliable, honest and trustworthy, working with clients across Wiltshire, Bath and Somerset.

Based out of their premises at Bumpers Farm Industrial Estate in Chippenham, the team can be seen out and about daily in their smart branded vans – they even have a vintage van which readers may see from time to time.

In the early days Debbie supported husband John when he made the momentous decision to leave his ‘safe’ job within a much larger company after a 19-year career. Together they

Teamwork: Teamwork: John John and and Debbie Debbie Williams Williams

created their new business in the conservatory of their home.

At the time, Debbie, was already an established business woman running her own beauty salon from her home, but she was happy to take on the administrative side of the couple's new enterprise.

Over a number of months, John’s workload grew and grew and it became necessary to take on another engineer. Debbie found her customer service skills were called upon frequently to answer the phone, manage the diary and ensure customers were given a firstclass service. The couple also realised many companies did not seem able to deliver that kind of responsive service.

In 2017, John Williams Heating Services offers a range of services including heating and boiler installations and repair for domestic and commercial premises; full heating, maintenance and certification for commercial

clients including landlords and estate agents; supply and install central heating systems; full plumbing services; Aga and Rayburn servicing and underfloor heating servicing and installation.

Customers can also opt for Gas boiler care plans, with Oil boiler care plans being launched soon.

New care plans for oil boilers are about to be launched.

For more: www.jwheating.co.uk or call 01249 709024

ad v e r tisi n g f e at u r e d ry c l e a n i n g

The power of clean Pristine laundry and service at smarty dry cleaning

S

marty Dry Cleaning, the South West's leading independent specialist dry cleaners, is always looking to offer new and enhanced services to its customers by investing in state-of-theart equipment.

The latest acquisition will be providing a new service for their hotel and hospitality clients. This is a new full width pressing rotary iron roller for bedsheets. At three and a half metres wide this will provide fully burnished finished ironing for bed linen. "We already provide a range of commercial contract laundry services for hotels and B & B's in the South West," says director Jon Ogden. "With the installation of this roller into our Keynsham branch we will now be able to provide this further

Smarty Dry Cleaning for clean and crisp bedding

key service for the industry. Our equipment will work to a fast turnaround and the finish will be of the highest professional standard."

In addition to the new ironing service Smarty Dry Cleaning offers a daily valet guest and staff service, as well as the cleaning of bedding, duvets, curtains and tablecloths, along with a full collection and delivery services.

11 River Street Place, Julian Road, Bath, BA1 2RS; 01225 444666 www.smartydrycleaning.co.uk Elms Cross Shopping Centre, Bradford on Avon, BA15 2AZ 01225 862964; www.smartyofbradford.co.uk

NoCon Business Associates T+LxTA=SBP (Talking)+(Listening) x Tactical Approach = SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICE

Now in its 7th year Nocon Business Associates has successfully saved more than 40 employees from losing their jobs, returned just under £1M to HMRC with no penalty charges, achieved compliance is all aspects of VAT recording, PAYE, CIS and pension processing and liaised with banks to secure business loans, we can do this for you!

At NoCon Business Associates we care about you and your business – we aim to keep you in business! We can be your voice, we will find the words, make the calls and compose your communication….. our aim is to help you succeed.

So if you think you need to liquidate, stop, let us help you back on the road to success. CALL 01225 480611 / 07400 388080

G Y IN R LL UA RO AN EN R J FO

W

O

N 18

20 Professional diploma courses enrolling now for January 2018.

One-day workshops and leisure classes all enrolling for September 2017.

Upholstery taster days Saturday 23rd September and 11th October For details of all our creative and vocational courses, visit:

www.traditionalupholsteryschool.co.uk

Clockwise, from top left: Susan Hill, Robert Webb, Adam Kay, Philip Pullman, Michel Roux Snr, Antony Horowitz, Sabrina Ghayour, Arun Gandhi and The Scrummy Mummies

Music/theatre/film/more

THE BATH AUTUMN LITERARY FESTIVAL

A host of names from the literary world are coming to Bath for a book festival organised by Topping & Company. Authors include Antony Horowitz, Jeremy Vine, Yotam Ottolenghi, Michel Roux senior, Susan Hill and Philip Pullman.

The bibliophile’s delight is now in its sixth year and will see authors and readers coming together to celebrate the printed word at Topping. “This festival differs from the others – it is entirely run by our team of enthusiastic and dedicated booksellers on the Paragon, amid a busy life of unpacking and shelving books, seeing publishers in the bookshop and most enjoyably of all chatting to readers,” says Saber Khan at Topping, which stocks an astonishing 57,000 titles.

The festival starts on 4 September with comedian Robert Webb and runs until November. For more on Yotam Ottolenghi turn to page 77.

Topping & Company, The Paragon, Bath; www.toppingbooks.co.uk

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

2 September – 30 September

See Laurence Fox in The Real Thing at the Theatre Royal Bath; listen to electronic artist Nathassia at Komedia; enjoy The Mission’s Cult Figure: Kenneth Williams

Exhibitions UNTIL 9 SEPTEMBER

THE BRUTALIST PLAYGROUND An exhibition that’s part sculpture, part architectural installation, by Turner Prize winners Assemble and Simon Terrill, and commissioned

by The Royal Institute of British Architects. The artists have used archival materials, drawings and photographs from RIBA’s collections to create an interactive installation exploring the stark designs of post-war playgrounds. 11am; Edge Arts; www.edgearts.org UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER

LAST ORDERS PLEASE An exhibition of paintings and prints celebrating some of Bath’s

finest traditional pubs including The Bell, The Larkhall Inn and The Star. Nick Cudworth Gallery; www.nickcudworth.co.uk

UNTIL 8 OCTOBER

SUMMER EXHIBITION Paintings, sculptures and ceramics from a number of artists including Luke Frost, Julia Cooper and Emma McClure at David Simon Contemporary; www.davidsimoncontemporary. com

ECHOES OF PLACE John Eaves’ vibrant compositions in oil, watercolour and collage dazzle the viewer in this show at the by one of the most distinguished local artists. Eaves’ work is noted for its rhythmic compositions and use of colour to create mood.

All items in this show of recent paintings and prints are for sale.

Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

UNTIL 1 OCTOBER

UNTIL1 OCTOBER

UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER

TAPESTRY HERE AND NOW This exhibition celebrates modern tapestry, the skill of the craft and how pieces tell personal and political stories. £10; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

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

DAVID RINGSELL EXHIBITION Discover David’s work which presents a contemporary perspective of some very familiar places. The Beaufort Restaurant, Bath; www.real-images.com

UNTIL 29 OCTOBER

1920s JAZZ AGE: FASHION & PHOTOGRAPHS With over 150 garments, this stunning selection of sportswear, printed day dresses, fringed flapper dresses, beaded evening wear, velvet capes, and silk pyjamas, reveals the glamour, excess, frivolity and modernity of the decade. American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org UNTIL 31 OCTOBER

THE TRANSFORMED LAND The Transformed Land collects work from various artists who are interested in place. Some frequently return to the same place, others are visitors, some are residents, and some are creators of imagined places.

Artists include David Daniels, Russell Denman and Eleanor

W H AT ’ S O N

Goulding. Circle Bath; www.artatruh.org

ARTS

Plays/shows 5 – 9 SEPTEMBER

UNTIL 25 NOVEMBER

BATH AND THE SMITHSONS This exhibition, Past, Present, Future: Bath and the Smithsons, is part of a series of events celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Royal Crescent. The exhibition explores Bath’s unique architecture through two of England’s most influential post-war architects Peter and Alison Smithson. Free with museum admission. Museum of Bath Architecture; www. museumofbatharchitecture. org.uk 6 SEPTEMBER – 15 OCTOBER

FORM AND FASCINATION New exhibition from sculptors Fiona Campbell and Ian Turnock at the National Trust’s Courts Gardens, Holt; www.nationaltrust.org 7 SEPTEMBER – 1 OCTOBER

TORSO This autumn exhibition features a new body of work from Gary Wood on the theme of torso.

One Two Five Gallery; www.ontwofivegallery.co.uk 27 SEPTEMBER – 24 DECEMBER

THE MOST POPULAR ART EXHIBITION EVER! An exciting exhibition from Grayson Perry tackling how contemporary art can address a diverse society. Arnolfini, Bristol;www.arnolfini.co.uk

ABSENT FRIENDS Alan Ayckbourn at his very best with hilarious, insightful and heart-wrenching home truths on stage. 7.30pm; £12.50/£10.50; The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk 6 – 9 SEPTEMBER

DRIVING MISS DAISY Driving Miss Daisy stars Sian Phillips and Derek Griffiths and is set in Atlanta in 1948, with black chauffeur Hoke (Griffiths) hired to drive cantankerous white Daisy Werthan (Phillips) around. £21-£32; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 11 – 16 SEPTEMBER

LOVE LETTERS Hollywood legends Ali MacGraw and Ryan O’Neal are reunited for Love Letters, a tale of enduring romance, first loves and second chances. £24.50-£35.50; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 18 – 30 SEPTEMBER

THE REAL THING Laurence Fox comes to Bath in playwright Tom Stoppard’s poignant and entertaining examination of infidelity. £21-£32; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Stories and fun with Chiffonade at the egg

new cast member and looming cancellation. 7.30pm; £12/£10; The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk

story using his own words, anecdotes, witty material and catchphrases. 8pm; £12/£10; The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk

24 SEPTEMBER 20 – 23 SEPTEMBER

THE GREAT BRITISH SOAP OPERA A new musical about a soap opera called Victoria Square and its falling ratings, sexy

CULT FIGURE: KENNETH WILLIAMS Kenneth Williams was one of the most unique and beloved figures in British comedy history and actor Colin Elmer tells William’s

28 SEPTEMBER

THE GREAT BRITISH TAKE OFF WITH JON CULSHAW An evening of unscripted, unrehearsed, spontaneous comedy and conversation as w

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

Clockwise: X Factor’s Lucy Spraggan comes to Komedia; Sarah and Duck enchant at the egg; The Great British Take Off With John Culshaw at Komedia

politicians, sports personalities and celebrities old and new form part of Jon Culshaw’s brilliant repertoire. The audience will choose the characters and what direction the show takes. 8pm; £20 – £31; Komedia; www. komedia.co.uk

Music 8 SEPTEMBER

FEEL THE FUTURE NOW TOUR Electronic music artist Nathassia brings her debut album Light of the World to Bath. Expect to see mesmerising visuals and hear a unique vocal style set to futuristic backdrops.

7pm; £5; Komedia; www. komedia.co.uk

20 SEPTEMBER

LUCY SPRAGGAN The former X Factor contestant comes to Bath having already achieved three top 40 albums.

Lucy’s style has been described as acoustic folk and pop. 7pm; £14.50; Komedia; www.komedia. co.uk 27 SEPTEMBER

NORTHERN HARMONY SINGING WORKSHOP AND CONCERT Bath’s Songways choir hosts Northern Harmony from the USA for a workshop and concert.

8pm; £10-£20; St Swithin’s Church; www.songways.co.uk

Family fun UNTIL 8 OCTOBER

14 SEPTEMBER

HALF MAN HALF BISCUIT The band from the Wirral bring their witty, dry and infectious melodies to Bath. 7.30pm; £20; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

HERE BE DRAGONS Visitors to this awe-inspiring exhibition can expect to encounter a veritable dragon’s den – in two and three dimensions – crammed with creatures that have leapt out of

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

their favourite books. Events, workshops and storytelling sessions will take place at the gallery suitable for the whole family. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk UNTIL 17 DECEMBER

SOUNDING THE WOOD Let your imagination run wild at musical playground Sounding the Wood. Find four instruments set within the woodland of Prior Park and explore how sound is created.

Free with normal admission; Prior Park Landscape Garden; www.nationaltrust.org.uk 9 – 17 SEPTEMBER

SARAH AND DUCK’S BIG TOP BIRTHDAY The enchanting world of Sarah and Duck is brought to life in this brand-new stage show featuring characters from the BAFTA awardwinning CBeebies show. £12/£10; the egg; www. theatreroyal.org.uk

23 – 24 SEPTEMBER

CHIFFONADE Cocooned within a giant squishy chrysalis, a character and a medley of fabulous fabrics become partners in a dreamy dance. Expect a joyful surprise at the end too. £8.50/£7.50; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 29 SEPTEMBER – 8 OCTOBER

BATH CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FESTIVAL Fantastic children’s literature festival with talks, workshops and, of course, lots of books.

Various locations in Bath.

For more, see page 13. www.bathfestivals.org.uk

Other 4 SEPTEMBER

AN EVENING WITH ROBERT WEBB The former Peep Show funnyman Robert Webb talks about his book How Not to be a Boy. A Topping & Co event. 7.30pm; £10 – £21.99; Komedia. For more, w

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

Absent Friends at The Mission Theatre; beautiful artwork in the Form and Fascination exhibition in The Courts Gardens

see page 49; www.toppingbooks. co.uk

place and ends on 17 September. www.janeaustenfestivalbath.co.uk

6 SEPTEMBER

9 SEPTEMBER

OCEAN FILM FESTIVAL Enjoy a brand new selection of the world’s most amazing ocean films, from both above and below the surface and those who live for the sea’s salt spray. 7.30pm; £11.50/£13.50; Komedia; www. komedia.co.uk

BATH MOONLIGHT WALK Join hundreds of women walking through Bath for this annual fundraiser in aid of Dorothy House. Starts at 10pm from SouthGate; £20-£25; www.bathmoonlightwalk.org.uk

MONTY SAUL IN CONVERSATION WITH TOAST’S SUZIE DE ROHAN WILNER The talk will include a light breakfast and is free to attend.

10am; Mulberry Room, Kilver Court Designer Village; www.kilvercourt.com 8 SEPTEMBER

THE GENIUS OF JANE AUSTEN Join author Paula Byrne and explore why Austen is such a hit in Hollywood, part of the Jane Austen Festival. 12pm; £10 or £24 with lunch; the Ustinov; www. theatreroyal.org.uk 9 SEPTEMBER

GRAND REGENCY COSTUMED CHARITY PROMENADE The launch of the Jane Austen Festival will see hundreds of people in Georgian garb walking through the streets of Bath, and starts from the Royal Crescent at 11am. The festival is in its 17th year with talks, theatre, food, dances and book reads all taking

13 SEPTEMBER

THE FROME CHEESE SHOW A great day out for all the family with arena displays, stalls, funfair and food and drink.

8.30am-6pm; £5-£31; www.fromecheeseshow.co.uk

AN EVENING WITH ANTONY HOROWITZ Listen to the Alex Rider and Foyle’s War author who’ll be discussing his new book The Word Is Murder as part of Toppings Autumn Literary Festival. 8pm; £20; Christ Church; www.toppingbooks.co.uk

10 SEPTEMBER

14 SEPTEMBER

12 SEPTEMBER

15 SEPTEMBER

9 SEPTEMBER 7 SEPTEMBER

AUSTEN’S HOUSE MUSEUM Visit the cottage where Austen lived for the last years of her life and where she wrote three novels. Part of the Jane Austen Festival; a coach from Bath leaves at 8.30am; £39; www.theatreroyalbath.org.uk

DRAGON BOAT RACE The popular race will involve 14 boats, each crewed by up to 10 rowers. They will battle it out in aid of Designability’s Whizzybug Loan Scheme, which provides fun powered wheelchairs for disabled kids. Bath Riverside; www.designability.org.uk

BATH BOULES BREAKFAST A business breakfast at will reveal the total raised for local charities and future plans from this year’s Bath Boules. The event is open to sponsors, charities and participating teams and starts at 8am. Hall & Woodhouse; www.bathboules.com

night will feature a variety of local music acts, allowing you to soak up the last of those summer vibes. Tickets cost £25 to include food and a drink; Hartley Farm; www.hartley-farm.co.uk 16 SEPTEMBER

BATHSCAPE WALKING FESTIVAL Celebrate Bath’s stunning and unique landscape with this festival comprising of 20 different walks in various locations. www.bathscapewalkingfestival. co.uk 23 SEPTEMBER

CENTENARY MASQUERADE BALL There’s a beautiful setting for this fundraising ball in aid of Leonard Cheshire Disability.

Expect guest speakers, fine dining, drinks and music from a 1940s-style band. 7pm; £95; Bath Assembly Rooms; www.leonardcheshire.org 23 SEPTEMBER – 8 OCTOBER

TOUR OF FUSSELS FARM AND KITCHEN The Fussels farm delicious rapeseed oil on land in Rode that has been in their family for generations. Fundraising event in aid of the Theatre Royal Bath and includes lunch. 12 pm; £22.50; Fussels Farm; www.theatreroyalbath.org.uk

DRAW BACK THE CURTAIN Behind the scenes tour of the Theatre Royal Bath and part of the Jane Austen Festival. The author was a frequent visitor to the theatre and had strong opinions about the plays she saw.

4pm; £10; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyalbath.co.uk 16 SEPTEMBER

12 SEPTEMBER

OUTING TO CHAWTON HOUSE LIBRARY AND JANE

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

POP-UP PUB See the summer out in style with a pop-up pub in a giant tipi. The

THE GREAT BATH FEAST Get your teeth stuck into this annual foodie festival with offers and events taking place across the city. For more, see page 77 and 79. www.greatbathfeast.co.uk 29 SEPTEMBER

OKTOBERFEST Grab your lederhosen for an evening of live music and traditional German beer all served in a wunderbar atmosphere.

5.30pm; £7-£25; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

NOW OPEN AS A FABULOUS AND UNIQUE JEWELLERY SHOP

POP IN AND SEE FOR YOURSELF 23 BROCK STREET BATH BA1 2LW WWW.ALEXANDRAMAY.COM 01225 465 094

A r t G a l l e ry O w n e r s a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

Meet the gallery owner We talk to gallery owners who explain why art is at the heart of their expertise

philip dye

jeni weinberger

emma birts

Adam Gallery; 01225 480406 www.adamgallery.com

Art Salon; 01225 422220 www.artsalon.co.uk

Rostra Gallery; 01225 448121 www.rostragallery.co.uk

What area of art do you specialise in?

We mainly specialise in painting, but also show sculpture and graphic works.

We also show works by 20th century modern masters such as Miro, Picasso, Chillida, Marini, Calder and Sol Lewitt.

How long have you been a gallery owner?

I have been in the art trade since 1995 and running my own business since 2005.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your role?

Championing new talent!

It is exciting to work with new and emerging artists and provide them with a place to showcase their works and often launch their artistic careers. I find it really rewarding to work closely with our customers and match them with works they will love and enjoy for a lifetime.

How long have you been a gallery owner?

As brothers Philip and Paul Dye we opened our first gallery in a small village in Essex in 1983, moving to Bath in 1987 where we have been based ever since.

Which individual exhibition have you most enjoyed putting on?

One of my favourite exhibitions was Graphic Works by the Spanish master Antoni Tapies who died at the age of 89 in 2012.

What exhibitions do you have coming up over the next few months?

We have a great schedule of shows coming up this autumn, starting with local artist Jim Whitty. The show is called Water and Light and features some large canvases that you feel you could just dive into.

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

What’s the most important quality required to be successful?

Communication is the most important quality. To listen to both client and artist and successfully match the two.

What area do you specialise in?

We concentrate on British talent, both emerging and established, and I am keen to promote British talent around the world. To this end we exhibit and sell in Hong Kong, Singapore and New York regularly. We also regularly exhibit in London and across the UK. This in turn brings many art patrons back to Bath.

What are the misconceptions about an art gallery?

That it will be too expensive.

We actually stock work from £10 – £20. At Christmas we fill the gallery with work from young designers and artists whose work is naturally a lot less expensive. You never know what future diamond you might uncover.

When was your gallery established?

Rostra Gallery was founded in November 1997 by Brian and Connie Herring and quickly established a reputation for representing high quality, accessible art in a relaxed and friendly environment.

What advice would you give someone who’s looking to buy art?

You should buy art because you love it, it is a good quality piece and something you will enjoy for years to come. My top tip for those looking to start a collection would have to be to buy limited edition prints – this is one of the best ways of acquiring modern art at affordable prices. These original works of art are created by an artist for a specific effect.

david simon

David Simon Contemporary 01225 460189; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com What advice would you give to somebody who’s looking to buy art?

‘Buy only what you really love’.

Following this advice helps form a strong and considered focus for a collection. By visiting galleries you will be given access to art of real quality and a good gallery will have filtered and refined a selection of artists whose work is built on experience, skilled technique and reputation.

Which individual exhibition have you most enjoyed putting on?

It was wonderful to give a prominent show for our artist Lydia Corbett last November. Corbett was the model featured in more than sixty of Pablo Picasso’s artworks, known as ‘The Girl with the Ponytail’. She has been painting for the past forty years and her work is a wonderfully rich combination of still life and portraiture with strong influences of Picasso and Chagall.

What exhibitions do you have coming up?

A solo exhibition of paintings

by Neil Pinkett in November called Water’s Edge, followed by a solo exhibition by Gareth Edwards RWA.

a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e A r t g a l l e ry o w n e r s

Jon Benington

Victoria Art Gallery 01225 477772 www.victoriagal.org.uk

Castle Fine Art 01225 789298 www.castlegalleries.com

gary wood

One Two Five Gallery 07803 033629 www.onetwofivegallery.co.uk

Robert Kann

What sets you apart from other galleries?

The fact that we cover over 500 years of decorative and fine art through our collections and exhibitions, and that we try and do so in a non-precious and friendly manner. The location of the gallery right in the centre of Bath is to die for, and I feel very proud to be linked to the Roman Baths and the Fashion Museum – two other great venues.

What are the misconceptions about an art gallery?

I think many people find art galleries quite intimidating based on the misconception that to collect any art of note, you have to be very wealthy and well-versed in the Old Masters, and that only really expensive art is good art.

What area of the arts do you specialise in?

Ceramics, painted clothing, glass and jewellery.

How long has your gallery been established for?

While I’ve been in business for four years, my gallery on Church Street has now completed its first year. Pitch26 is a cosy and unpretentious gallery, between Abbey Square and Abbey Green, which doubles up as my studio. I love meeting new people from Bath and am still very proud that customers love my work.

Bath has been my home for the last six years and is the source of inspiration for my current work.

Who is your favourite artist?

It’s hard to pick one, but as you have put me on the spot I will name Sir Howard Hodgkin. He is that rare thing – an English colourist who created head-turning paintings and prints that are also emotionally charged. I was privileged to have known and worked with him on two exhibitions – the latest due to open on 14 October and something of a memorial, given that he died in March this year.

Which individual exhibition have you most enjoyed putting on?

The Grayson Perry show The Vanity of Small Differences – six huge tapestries exploring the British class system through the eyes of an imaginary hero, Tim Rakewell. The show opened in December 2016 and broke all attendance records during its 13-week run. People flocked because of the artist’s cult status, and it was hugely rewarding to be in the position of bringing contemporary art to a non-art audience.

karen king

What advice would you give to somebody who’s looking to buy art?

Do your research; find out what type of artists and styles you like. Once you have decided on what piece you would like to buy, start to take practical issues into consideration, such as where the piece will go in your home or workplace. Above all else, buy with your heart before your head.

What sets you apart from other galleries?

Our artists! We are so privileged to represent world famous cultural icons as well as hugely talented up–and– coming artists making their mark on today’s contemporary art scene.

What exhibitions do you have coming up over the next few months?

From the 25th of November, we will be exhibiting the latest works by augmentist artist, Scarlett Raven. Reformed art forger John Myatt will be joining us in the gallery on 14th December, with his latest collection painted in homage to Vincent van Gogh.

What has been your proudest professional moment?

Christmas Candles For Refugees; a collaboration with Bath Abbey where I installed several hundred of my ceramic candle holders in the shape of a boat up the altar steps as part of their Yearning For The Light Advent Procession by Candlelight in November 2015.

What are the misconceptions about an art gallery?

I think some people associate the word gallery with places like museums, where the things on display are very precious, untouchable and unaffordable.

I encourage people to pick up my pots, as you have to feel the work in your hand as well as seeing it on a shelf, especially if it is a vessel to be used.

Which individual exhibition have you most enjoyed putting on?

The one that is about to open on 8 September at One Two Five – Torso – which runs until 1 October. This is a collection of my ceramic sculpture and is dedicated to the memory of our dear friend, Ian Wilson, who died recently.

What sets you apart from other galleries?

We make the work we sell and it’s good to be able to share some of that insight directly with our visitors and through the work itself.

Pitch26 – art of architecture rk@pitch26.com www.pitch26.com

What sets you apart from other galleries?

My gallery is personal, friendly and affordable. I am personally in the gallery most days, so you can always meet the artist, which is a rare occurrence in other galleries.

My work is a contemporary take on traditional architectural perspectives, a technique which I’ve developed through years of practicing as an architect.

What advice would you give to somebody who’s looking to buy art?

Buy what you like, what catches your eye, and buy it impulsively!

As with life, impulsive actions often become the memories which stay with you forever.

Art which you like stays with you for life also.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 57

ONE TO ONE

The RYAN’S DEN Home comforts, life as a single mother, and living as a woman in this century are the hot topics razor-sharp comedian Katherine Ryan will bring to the stage at Komedia, Bath, later this month

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By E V E LY N GR E E N

he’s ecstatic about touring the country with her new show, Glitter Room, but stand-up comedian Katherine Ryan loves nothing more than a spot of me-time – or should we say ‘ma’ time.

“In Japanese, they talk about ‘ma’, the space in between clapping that’s emptiness,” she says. “It’s important in life to have some ‘nothingness’, and that’s what I need to have when I’m not working.

“I do a lot because I’m a very gamey person, so as soon as anyone offers me something ridiculous like ‘do you want to dance on this special charity show?’ I’ll say yes. It’s not because I say yes to everything, just that I love to do different things and I have a fun job.

“What I don’t have is a social life, so friends will say ‘let’s go and do this or that, or have a weekend away’. But if I’m not working, the key is to spend as much time as possible with my daughter, Violet, and just be home doing absolutely nothing. Having said that, I’m excited to be heading back to Bath after a sell-out show at Komedia last time around!”

Every year seems to be busier than the one before for the London-based Canadian stand-up, but she’ll have to go some to top 2017. Among her achievements over the past 12 months was becoming only the second UK-residing comic to have their own Netflix stand-up special (the Hammersmith Apollofilmed In Trouble). Meanwhile, her TV profile has risen further by helming Channel 4’s How’d You Get So Rich and co-hosting Comedy Central’s Your Face or Mine in tandem with Jimmy Carr.

But now she’s taking her place back on the nation’s live stages with her new national tour – her first live show since the majestically successful Kathbum which had sell-out runs across the UK, including one at Komedia. And they’re also beginning to see the light in the USA, where she performed stand-up on Conan O’Brien’s influential late-night entertainment show, while a couple of years back she appeared in her homeland at Toronto’s Oddball Festival.

Her hard work, though, is definitely paying off as she’s steadily climbing up that ladder to the top of the UK stand-up tree. Hopefully she doesn’t suffer from vertigo because Glitter Room – which will début in Bath – is only going to take her even higher.

Obvious question: what’s a glitter room?

“It’s about this little thing that Violet said which encapsulates how charmed my life is now,” says Katherine. “I bought a flat, which is quiet and peaceful and clean and floral and we have these tiny little dogs; everything is a warning for a man to stay away. The other day, Violet said [adopts well-spoken English accent] ‘Mummy, if you need

me I’ll be watching Mean Girls in the glitter room’. I have this life that I never pictured for myself. I grew up in an Irish Catholic family in Canada and thought I would have a normal family life; instead, I have a glitter room.”

As well as being a very personal show about her own career trajectory and life development, Katherine is hoping to hit upon some universal truths with her material.

“Whenever you try to broaden your audience with something like a Netflix special, you have to talk about themes that are relatable to others,” she says. “So this show is a lot more universal, about my life as a single mum and as a woman in this century who is questioning what kind of life she needs to have.”

One of the things which people who have seen her live work will immediately associate with Katherine is a pin-sharp analysis of pop culture and celebrities. She is renowned for her no-nonsense takedowns of the likes of Cheryl Cole and Peter Andre, but she admits to taking a slightly different perspective in Glitter Room on that level of celebrityhood.

“I do love a comedy roast,” she says.

“It’s a language that people in comedy can understand, but some of my old stuff was heard by the celebrities that I was talking about and, you know, I don’t want to hurt anyone. It turns out I do actually have a conscience. Comedians can be provocative, but I know that they don’t want to hurt people, they’re just trying to make things lighter and funnier. I will still talk about the Kardashians, but in a less negative way.

Maybe I’m just getting wiser.”

Wiser maybe, but no less funny. Both of those attributes were to the fore in her series, How’d You Get So Rich? in which she met up with some stupendously wealthy individuals. Did she take any life lessons away from making that programme?

“When you look across your block of flats to these mansions and you think ‘oh gosh the owners must be special and smart’, but the thing is, they’re not special,” she says. “They have a very strong work ethic and they take risks but they aren’t that different to you or to me. A certain level of self-belief and commitment to your goal will take you a very long way.”

For now, Katherine is putting some of her TV work on hold to get back on the road and entertain the nation. “I’m excited to be touring and to come to Bath again,” she says. “People ask me if TV or touring is more important and I just think that you can’t have one without the other. Comedy is a conversation and it’s good to see other towns on a tour. I just hope that people like me and don’t get sick of me for a few more years.” No chance of that, Katherine.

I’M EXCITED TO BE HEADING BACK TO BATH AFTER A SELL-OUT SHOW LAST TIME AROUND!

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

See Katherine Ryan at Komedia, Bath, on 21 September.

For more information, visit www.komedia.co.uk

ONE TO ONE

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

The Framing Workshop has been trading as an independent family run business on Walcot Street for over 28 years. We treasure you, our client, and spend time helping you to find the best way to display and protect your cherished objects, artworks and memorabilia. Creativity and respect for each artwork are core to what we do.

Every picture tells a story. Come and share yours.

80 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BD | Tel: 01225 482748 www.theframingworkshop.com framing@theframingworkshop.com

antique and modern carpets bought, sold repaired and cleaned 25 years in Bath Largest selection in the south west

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What we do Retail and wholesale supply of contemporary and traditional wood, gas and electric stoves, from leading manufacturers. Over 100 on display, many working and in fire place settings. Stove spares and glass, accessories, baskets, patio heaters, outdoor fires, flues, chimneys and cleaning equipment available. Extensive product and installation knowledge and a showroom in a country setting.

Thanks to everyone who came to our charity open days, we raised ÂŁ5882.82 which will shared between Macmillan Cancer Support, Mind (supporting better mental health) and Great Western Air Ambulance.

Castle Farm, Marshfield, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN14 8HU Our showroom is 4 miles from junction 18 of the M4, between Bristol, Bath and Chippenham. 1225 891469 www.knight-stoves.co.uk | enquiries@knight-stoves.co.uk

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BOOKS

IF THE DAILY NEWS ISN’T ENOUGH TO REMIND US HOW FLAWED WE ARE AS A SPECIES, THEN THESE BOOKS SHOULD DO THE TRICK!

NATURE OF THE BEAST For those curious about how the planet’s creatures live their lives, take a look at these book recommendations

By N IC BO T T OM L E Y

T

his summer, hopefully we will all have had the opportunity to come into closer contact with our local fauna than we might on the average damp office-bound working day.

If we pay attention, we might glimpse a kingfisher on the Kennet and Avon Canal or a barn owl at dusk flashing past with its ghostly mask, or a baby seagull cowering in the travel section of our bookshop (but that’s a long and different story).

Even if we’re lucky enough to make these brief connections, most of us remain completely ignorant as to how the creatures with which we share our planet live their lives. Lucky then, that a new sub-branch of the ever-blossoming nature-writing genre seems to have materialised to give us insight into the thought patterns and behavioural characteristics of some species.

Detailed books about birds are nothing new, but in The Seabird’s Cry (Harper Collins, £16.99) Adam Nicolson stuns us with a fresh approach as he unveils the full, remarkable

story of the navigation skills and physical resilience of many seabirds. Nicolson’s passion for his subject matter is strikingly obvious from the outset, and is contagious.

His interest in the birds is rooted in time spent on Hebridean Islands, but the book’s scope is far broader than that, as befits the expansive distances travelled by these ocean-going birds.

It is Nicolson’s boundless curiosity that sets this book apart from others. “Do fulmar’s play?” he asks when he watches them twisting and turning through the air above clifftops. He doesn’t necessarily reach a conclusion – how can we know? But in considering questions like this, he reveals and shares his awe for these agile creatures and the nine other species – from puffins to gannets – that he covers. And what Nicolson certainly doesn’t do is let his poetic appraisal of the achievements and habits of the seabirds get in the way of some tough scientific and political messages – these birds are threatened and will die out sooner rather than later unless we stop killing them

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with overfishing and pollution.

My wife and I need no confirmation of the intelligence and instincts of orcas. We travelled to the promisingly named Orca Island between Seattle and Vancouver as part of our honeymoon many years ago with the primary intention of seeing orcas in the wild. Unfortunatly, the orcas got wind of our arrival and headed out just as we arrived.

We got to hear a sonar recording of them passing, though.

The incident, unsurprisingly, doesn’t get a mention in Of Orcas and Men, by David Neiwert (Bloomsbury, £9.99), but the author has many far more scientific gauges of their intelligence to share with us. Perhaps the most striking element is the way that they interact together – with each pod having its own behavioural rules and characteristics.

Just like Nicolson’s seabirds, research showing the possibility of personality traits – including an apparent sense of humour and an astonishing acoustic sense – make for some of the most intriguing passages in the book. And, as you would expect, the most depressing element is the news that, once again, man’s activities are threatening the species – not least the ever-booming oil industry along America and Canada’s western coast.

The Soul of an Octopus by Sy Montgomery (Simon & Schuster, £8.99) is another eyeopening look at a creature we might not first associate with intelligence. That’s just us judging books by covers though because the experts Montgomery meets present convincing evidence that the octopus is a sophisticated, emotional animal that tends to have a big, positive influence on those who work closely with them. Montgomery wrote the book after forming a close friendship with Athena the octopus and then being greatly affected by her death. As she sets out to meet more of the species in their natural habitat, her personal belief in their strength of character is what makes the book so compelling.

If the daily news isn’t enough to remind us how flawed we are as a species, then these books – allowing us to compare the human body and soul unfavourably to birds, whales and octopuses – should do the trick!

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

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

Clockwise, from left: See a former Pink Floyder in action in David Gilmour Live at Pompeii; God’s Own Country focuses on how unexpected attraction can change lives; Queen Victoria will be played by Judi Dench in Victoria and Abdul; Starring Bill Nighy, The Limehouse Golem is the latest horror to hit the screen

FILMS TO FALL FOR From terrifying mythical creatures to royal outrage, here’s what you can look forward to during autumn at the Little

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

A

utumn has to be my favourite season. The expectation and subsequent bathos of long, balmy days is replaced with a comforting routine with little to disappoint. Logs are prepared, boots come out, and with them the certainty that the choice of watching a film or sitting in the warm sun is no longer an issue. The Little Theatre is happy to provide an excellent array of cinematic offerings, with something for everyone. So, without further ado, onto the films...

A bit of a scary Mary to start with, but may well be right up your bloodied street. Old London Town is gripped with fear as a series of murders so brutal the locals believe it can only be the work of the fabled Limehouse Golem, a mythical Jewish creature, (not the Phantom Raspberry Blower which used to terrify me of a Saturday night) who roams the streets, leaving cryptic messages written in the blood of his victim. Inspector John Kildare (Bill Nighy), a man with his own troubled past, is assigned the case with little hope of cracking it. Enter music hall star Lizzie Cree (Olivia Cooke) who, through the murder of her own husband, will bring Kildare closer to the sleazy truth.

Expect murky Victorian interiors, flocked wallpaper and very little natural light in the rip-tastic The Limehouse Golem. If watching a

matinee, bring your sunglasses for the glare as you exit.

Little titbit for you – Bill Nighy’s role was originally given to Alan Rickman who had to pull out of the project due to ill-health. RIP. Twenty years ago, when I was a (very) young usher, along came a film about Queen Victoria (played by Judi Dench) and her unorthodox relationship with her manservant.

Well, I guess it’s true that if you stick around long enough in any job, you tend to see the same things coming round again, and sure enough, here’s a film about Queen Victoria (played by Judi Dench) and her unorthodox – well, you get the picture.

Back then, in Mrs Brown, the lowly chap was played by Billy Connolly in one of those rare instances of him being quite good. This time around, the film Victoria and Abdul sees Queen Judi dallying with an Indian clerk, played by the actor Ali Fazal, who popped up in Three Idiots (starring alongside the brilliant Aamir Khan), and who was also in Fast and Furious 7 (about which I know precisely nothing).

Tongues are set furiously a-wag when royal favour is bestowed upon the humble servant, but, unlike the aforementioned DenchConnolly vehicle, there’s not much suggestion of any impropriety in the trouser department.

But people are outraged, and what gets the collective dander up is the sheer bonkersness

FILM

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of being amiable with not just a menial type, but a foreign one at that. Among the shocked onlookers are Eddie Izzard as soon-to-be Eddie 7, and the wonderful Tim Piggot-Smith in one of his last roles. It all adds up to a right royal gem thrown at us by Stephen Frears, a man who knows a bit about on-screen monarchs (he helmed The Queen in 2006) and on-screen Dench (he made the fabulous Philomena a couple of years ago).

God’s Own Country is the feature début from Francis Lee, a northern chap who had parts in Casualty, Midsummer Murders and all the usual dramas that have supported struggling actors, Mr J-W included (and writer-directors) since time immemorial. The film is about Johnny, a Yorkshire (for it is to this glorious county that the title of course refers) buck who whiles away his days with booze, saucy antics and generally mindless goings-on. Everything changes for him in a massively unexpected way when an immigrant labourer happens on the scene and Johnny’s focus shifts decidedly away from the ladies. How they both cope with the burgeoning attraction for each other is deftly told by Lee, and he looks to be one to watch in future.

For all you fans of modern sounds out there, we are showing a performance from a chap just starting out, playing some bang up-todate tunes. Yep, it’s young David Gilmour I’m talking about here, he of red hot starlets Pink Floyd. Actually, tickets are flying out for this so the ex-Floyder is obviously still right up there in the poptastic stakes.

Recorded at the amphitheatre in Pompeii (where he and his erstwhile bandmates did a super-famous gig about two hundred years ago, and where I spent a very hot afternoon the year before last. I’ll leave it to you to decide which of these little snippets is of more interest, but I know what I think), this concert features music spanning his entire career and is as sonically and visually spectacular as anything that town has ever seen. OK, nearly.

Now to one or two of Mr Gilmour’s nearcontemporaries. Mozart’s most accessible opera The Magic Flute gets a good tooting by the performers of the Royal Opera House on 20 September, and finally, slightly less fun but no less dramatic, Shakespeare’s tragic crowning glory King Lear is on the very next night, coming from The Globe no less. No, not the pub on Corston roundabout. Well, I assume not, anyway.

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

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

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

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Timbrell’s Yard Formerly of River Cottage, executive chef Tom Blake brings his full-of-life flavours to the fore at this thriving, witty, original restaurant in beautiful Bradford on Avon

By L I SA E VA NS

I

t’s clear that Timbrell’s Yard strives to be original in everything it does. On each table is an EnidBlyton-for-grown-ups book (ours is Five Give Up the Booze); on the walls are framed candelabras; hanging from the double-height ceilings are lamps that look like garden incinerators; and that’s all before we get to the interesting, lesserseen ingredients featured on the menu – such as gurnard, gremolata, pickled raisins, vinegar seeds and, the rather delicious, fregola.

Executive chef Tom Blake – a River Cottage graduate – and head chef Nick Price ensure that nothing ‘ordinary’ comes out of the energetic open kitchen. Every plate vibrates with contemporary surprises – expect chargrilled squid with harissa and dukkah; Old Spot sea salt and fennel crackling with gooseberry ketchup; and lamb rump with pearled Sharpham spelt and radish.

My companion’s starter is air-dried ham with figs, ricotta and honey, each prime ingredient holding its own. The figs create a burst of tender, fruity flavour while mingling with the salt from the meat, placing the dish in a titillating space between savoury and sweet.

For me, it’s the courgette and mozzarella fritters – which look like onion bhajis, except they’re verdant, oozy and creamy in the centre – on a bed of fregola (giant couscous), basil and fresh, raw slices of burly tomatoes.

For his main course, a dry-aged rib-eye steak – slick with roast garlic and parsley butter – is as thick-cut and as rare as promised, and comes with a mini pan of peppercorn sauce, grilled tomatoes and a thicket of revitalising watercress because we all must have our greens. And the vast portion of crispy onions which perch atop the steak like tangled shoelaces is a must, as are the ever-so-salty hand-cut chips.

PILLOWY, GLAZED, FRUITY CRUNCHINESS TEMPTS US TO TUMBLE INTO HYPERBOLE

My choice, the Westcombe ricotta, beetroot and chard lasagna, is a stratified affair. Crunchy and browned on the top and soft in the middle, its perfect layers are separated by both pasta and wide, flat leaves, but it lacks the seasoning I feel is needed, and a good amount of chewing is necessary before the mild flavours start to come through. There’s no lack of generosity, though; portions are huge, and the salsa verde it comes with gives spiky angles to the gentle, rounded flavours.

Dessert is outstanding. We choose the pistachiosprinkled strawberry, lavender and gooseberry pavlova – a pillowy, glazed, fruity crunchiness which tempts us to tumble into hyperbole – and we also try and fail to finish an indulgent rocky road sundae with thick, luscious toffee sauce and homemade vanilla ice cream.

If it were a little warmer outside, we’d have chosen to enjoy our courses on the terrace and admire the peaceful view of the River Avon swirling past the Holy Trinity Church opposite. But we’d selected a window seat as the next best thing, and our view was the spacious, open-plan, restaurant instead (which still looks out over the river if you don’t choose to face your back to it as I foolishly did).

The rustic-meets-contemporary feel of the dining space in this Grade-II listed building also winds its way through to the 17 en suite bedrooms, so I felt it would have been rude to have gone home without experiencing an overnight stay, of course.

My individually styled room is effortlessly trendy; there are deep window seats, nature-inspired colourways and textures, and quirky decorative finds. Drifting off to sleep to the sound of the soothing burble of the river below makes for a rather restful night’s sleep. And, in the morning, the rainfall shower, sweet-smelling Bramley products and divine breakfast of smashed avocado on malted toast with chilli sauce, roast tomatoes, nuts and seeds help me wake up.

So, if you’re seeking a modern-meets-rustic hideaway which serves food and drink all day, every day, and you don’t shy away from a novel twist or two, give this stylish, historic riverfront destination perched on the edge of the River Avon a try.

DINING DETAILS Timbrelll’s Yard, 49 St. Margaret’s Street, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1DE; 01225 869492; www.timbrellsyard.com Prices Starters £5.50 – £10; small plates £10 for three, or £15 for five; mains £12.50 – £23.50; dessert £6.50 - £7.50 Drinks The wine list is diverse and deliberately mixes classics with some of the more unusual kids on the block Service/atmosphere Chirpy, convivial, witty and original

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 69

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 THE BATH PRIORY Weston Rd, Bath; 01225 331922; www.thebathpriory.co.uk Michelin-starred fine dining overlooking hotels award-winning gardens THE BEAUFORT 1 Beaufort, London Road, Bath; 01225 422033; www.thebeaufortbath.com Family-run restaurant in the heart of Larkhall cooking creative, seasonal food CIRCUS RESTAURANT 34 Brock Street, Bath; 01225 466020; www.thecircusrestaurant.co.uk Voted number four in the UK in The Times “20 secret restaurants that foodies love” CLIFTON SAUSAGE 5 Bladud Buildings, Bath; 01225 433633; www.cliftonsausage.co.uk Upmarket sausage and mash restaurant and bar newly opened in Bath 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 HENRY'S 4 Saville Row, Bath; 01225 780055; www.henrysrestaurantbath.com Imaginative modern dining offering a classic menu and also full vegetarian and vegan menus DAN MOON AT THE GAINSBOROUGH RESTAURANT Beau St, Bath; 01225 358888; www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk Creativity meets delicious food with this talented chef 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 60 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

WOODS 9-13 Alfred St, Bath; 01225 314812 www.woodsrestaurant.com legendary Bath dining institution serving French influenced British cuisine

THE GARRICKS HEAD 7-8 St John's Rd, Bath; 01225 318368; www.garricksheadpub.com City centre pub and dining room next to Theatre Royal

CAFÉS & COFFEE SHOPS

THE HARE AND HOUNDS Lansdown Road, Avon, Bath; 01225 482682; www.hareandhoundsbath.com Airy, relaxed spot with modern British gastropub menu, extensive wine list and scenic outdoor area

CAFÉ LUCCA 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; 01225 335394; www.cafelucca.co.uk Stylish contemporary café situated at The Loft on Bartlett Street offering a Mediterranean inspired menu with barista coffee and sumptuous homemade cakes GREEN BIRD CAFÉ 11 Margaret's Buildings, Bath; 01225 487846; www.greenbirdcafe.co.uk Independently run cafe located between the Circus & Royal Crescent 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

CALIFORNIAN

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 NEW INN 24 Monmouth Place, Bath; 01225 442944; www.newinnbath.co.uk Burgers and bar snacks with cask and craft ale and beers

THE FIREHOUSE ROTISSERIE 2 John St, Bath; 01225 482070; www.firehouserotisserie.co.uk Californian and Tex-Mex dishes, prepared over a wood-fired grill in a rustic setting

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

GASTROPUBS

INDIAN

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

THE EASTERN EYE 8a Quiet St, Bath; 01225 422323; www.easterneye.com Classic traditional Bengali cuisine in grand Georgian interior space

KING WILLIAM 36 Thomas St, Bath; 01225 428096; www.kingwilliampub.com Pub with an upstairs dining room serving a modern British menu based on west country produce

THE MINT ROOM Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 446656; www.themintroom.co.uk Award winning contemporary Indian fine dining

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

MARTINI RESTAURANT 8-9 George St, Bath; 01225 460818; www.martinirestaurant.co.uk Traditional Italian food served in a cosy atmosphere

ITALIAN

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

STEAKHOUSES

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

PIZZA

THE HERD 12a Argyle St, Bath; 01225 316583; www.theherdrestaurant.co.uk Locally sourced meat of the finest provenance alongside a simple, seasonal menu

THE OVEN 21 Westgate St, Bath 01225 311181; www.theovenpizzeria.co.uk Neapolitan artisan pizza using local and Italian imported produce

HUDSON STEAKHOUSE 14 London St, Bath; 01225 332323; www.hudsonsteakhouse.co.uk Award-winning steakhouse in listed building specialising in prime aged steaks and delicious starters with a fusion twist

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

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

TAPAS

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

TAPAS REVOLUTION 20A St Lawrence St, Bath; 01225 312917 www.tapasrevolution.com/bath Newly opened authentic Spanish Tapas

THAI

OUTSIDE of BATH BRITISH THE GREENHOUSE RESTAURANT The Pavilion, Wadswick Green, Corsham SN13 9RD; 01225 585880; www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk Smart, stylish and relaxed new dining destination THE GARDEN 15-17 The Bridge, Chippenham, SN15 1HA 01249 465672; www.thegardenuk.co.uk Relaxed dining using British produce

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS LUCKNAM PARK Colerne, Wilts, SN14 8AZ 01225 742777; www.lucknampark.co.uk Michelin Star fine dining at the renowned Park restaurant and more informal dining at the stylish contemporary brasserie at 5 star country house hotel WIDBROOK GRANGE HOTEL Trowbridge Rd, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1UH; 01225 864750; www.widbrookgrange.co.uk

Modern farmhouse cuisine, locally sourced and freshly prepared

Award winning modern British food and cask ales in country inn

GASTROPUBS

THE PEAR TREE INN Top Lane, Whitely, Wilts, SN12 8QX; 01225 704966; www.peartreewhitley.co.uk An elegant revamped country inn with an acclaimed restaurant and contemporary rustic-chic bedrooms

BUNCH OF GRAPES 14 Silver St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1JY; 01225 938088; www.thebunchofgrapes.com Bar and restaurant inspired by the village bistros of South West France THE GEORGE AT WOOLLEY 67 Woolley St, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1AQ; 01225 865650; www.thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk Recently refurbished gastropub from award winning team HOMEWOOD PARK Abbey Lane, Freshford, Bath BA2 7TB 01225 723731; www.homewoodpark.co.uk Luxury hotel with two rosette restaurant and spa THE LONGS ARMS Upper South Wraxall, Wilts, BA15 2SB; 01225 864450; www.thelongsarms.com

THE WHEELWRIGHTS ARMS Church Lane, Monkton Combe, BA2 7HB 01225 722287; www.wheelwrightsarms.co.uk Pub featuring modern takes on British classics, plus understated, individually decorated guestrooms

FARM SHOPS ALLINGTON FARM SHOP Allington Bar Farm, Allington, Chippenham SN14 6LJ; 01249 658112; www.allingtonfarmshop.co.uk Shop and Café selling local produce

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Bath’s finest modern Indian Restaurant Where our food and drink speaks for itself…

Fortune Inn

Chinese Restaurant & Traditional Pub

Rooftop Bar Opening Soon…

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

Superior Chinese, Szechuan & Authentic Chinese Cuisine within a fully air conditioned restaurant near the heart of Wiltshire market town, Chippenham.

Function room available with capacity for up to 50 people

115 Sheldon Road, Chippenham, SN14 ODA 01249 661382 | www.fortuneinn.co

a d v e r tisi n g feat u r e f o o d & d r i n k

BE ADVENTUROUS BATH EDIBLE ADVENTURES is an exciting, new culinary tour of our beautiful city

I

t's a movable supper club exploring the best food and produce the city has to offer in a selection of Bath’s most exciting and interesting foodie destinations.

“You could describe it as a 'gastronomic gallop' around Bath” says founder and host for the tours Jodie Bell. "We will offer small and exclusive group experiences, visiting a variety of foodie venues across the city as part of our delicious culinary crawl. Our tours are mainly early evening, to give visitors a chance to explore and extend their evening beyond their experience with us.

We love to support small businesses and independent venues in the city and so Bath Edible Adventures has handpicked a range of the best local restaurants and eateries across the city ... to showcase the foodie wonders of

Bath and beyond!"

There will be different options for the Edible Adventure. 'Best of Bath' boasting the finest produce of the city and 'Wonders of the West Country' with a more regional selection. For details of more tours, please visit the website.

Jodie’s background is firmly grounded in all things food related with a degree in nutrition and a career which includes working at an artisanal pie company and running an organic café in the city. She says, "I'm a food enthusiast, and having lived in the city for 15 years, I want to share with others my love of local food and the beauty of Bath! As well as unearthing the culinary treasures in the city, we'll be taking in the sights and sounds of Bath on our edible adventure!"

Whether visitors to the city or local residents Bath Edible Adventures guarantees a delicious experience.

Bath Edible Adventures will be at The Great Bath Feast 23 September – 8 October.

Find out more and book at bathedibleadventures.co.uk @ediblebath bathedibleadventures

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 73

THE FINEST BANGLADESHI & INDIAN CUISINE

10% off takeaways - collection only Set meal available every Monday Bangladeshi Thaali available Tuesday & Wednesday

Would you like to work in Media Sales?

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

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

Buffet available every Sunday Lunch menu available Sunday-Thursday House special lamb or chicken available with 24hr notice Outside catering services for all occasions

B.Y.O. no Corkage | Car Park Disabled Access | Open Bank Holidays

1 High Street, Box, Wiltshire SN13 8NJ

01225 743126 www.thebengalbear.com Find us on Facebook

www.mediaclash.co.uk

Opening Times: Lunchtimes: Saturday-Thursday, 12pm-2.30pm (Closed Friday); Evenings: Monday-Sunday, 5.30pm-11pm

Story telling time with Ross and Callum 1 liliput Court, Bath, BA1 1ND • hideoutbath.co.uk • info@hideoutbath.co.uk

THE RUSTY STAG

OPEN NOW

The Street, Broughton Gifford, Wiltshire SN12 8PN 01225 308541 Open Tuesday – Sunday • Lunch & Dinner

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

Yotam Ottolenghi will bring his new cookbook to Bath

Martin Blake is happy to be a semi-finalist

APPETITE FOR COOKING A culinary competition to highlight professional chefs and nurture new talent has seen three local chefs reach the semi-finals.

The South West Chef of the Year 2017 is now in its 14th year, with Lucknam Park’s demi chef de partie, Joshua Murphy, and its commis chef, Thomas Herbert, both in the young professional semi-final.

Martin Blake, senior sous chef at The Manor House Hotel in Castle Combe, is a semi-finalist in the professional category.

The event is championed by the former chef of the Bath Priory Michael Caines.

“The competition is hotting up and we’re now at the stage where my fellow judges and I can look forward to tasting the menus created by our semi-finalists and finalists,” says Michael. “I can’t wait as this is one of the most exciting parts of the competition during which we can see what entrants are trying to achieve; how they have been inspired by the fantastic local produce we ask them to use; how skilled they are at putting flavours together; and, importantly, how innovative their cooking is.”

Other judges include Michael Wignall and Chris and James Tanner.

The semi-finals will be held on 30 September at Exeter College.

Co-author Helen Goh

For more: www.southwestchef.co.uk

Acclaimed chef Yotam Ottolenghi has a new cookbook out and is coming to Bath to share his belief that a little of what you fancy does you good.

Sweet is co-written with long-time collaborator and chef Helen Goh, with the pair in the city on 19 September as part of Topping’s Autumn Literary Festival (for more, see page 49).

And, with the resurgence of baking in the UK, the Israeli-British chef says the book is a welcome return to his roots as a pastry chef.

“When we opened Ottolenghi – which was 15 years ago now – I was in charge of the pastry department, the pastries, the cakes and all the sweet things that were on display,” says Yotam.

“You can just walk into a supermarket and see how much the baking departments have exploded over the last decade or so, so it’s definitely a good time to publish a book about baking.”

The baking explosion – think GBBO and a multitude of other shows – also coincides with a growing anti-sugar trend.

“The trouble with sugar is that it’s being used extensively in the processed food industry and so people just consume sugar with everything, with their ready meals, with their crisps, with all those kind of quick fixes,” says Yotam. “So that’s when you consume sugar beyond what you should. But if people have a cake once in a while, once a day, once every two days, a little slice, I don’t think it’ll hurt them. It would be a complete shame to stop enjoying that little bit of sweetness that I think we should all be celebrating.”

Tickets for the event at Komedia cost £27 and include a copy of Sweet.

For more: www.toppingbooks.co.uk

HARVEST FESTIVAL Foodies can enjoy a very special lunch at Dan Moon at The Gainsborough Restaurant as part of The Great Bath Feast.

The eatery is offering two lunches for the price of one from 8 September until 10 October, with two meals costing £34. The offer is available Monday-Friday, with the chef renowned for classic flavours and imaginative cuisine all combined with beautiful presentation.

The foodie festival itself opens in Bath on 23 September, with a jampacked schedule of tastings, special menus, talks and other exciting

GOING BACK TO HIS ROOTS

Tuck in at The Great Bath Feast

food-related events.

The GBF is now in its fifth year and highlights and celebrates the best of the city’s culinary scene.

“The Great Bath Feast will once again dominate Bath’s social calendar celebrating, acknowledging and paying tribute to the very best tastes and flavours that Bath has to offer,” say the organisers at Visit Bath.

“These include local producers, passionate artisans and unique, tiny tea houses, to the nationallyacclaimed culinary superstars.”

For more: www.greatbathfeast.co.uk and see page 79

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

Food/stores/gifts/more

DON’T MISS

Hardeep will entertain with lots of laughs and cooking demos

TIME TO TUCK IN

Bath’s annual food festival The Great Bath Feast returns this autumn for a celebration of the city’s vibrant and varied food and drink scene, giving you the chance to taste new flavours and enjoy new culinary experiences.

As part of the Bath Comedy Festival’s Autumn Season, comedian, veteran broadcaster and chef Hardeep Singh Kohli will be coming to Widcombe Social Club to share anecdotes about his passion for food and the development of curry culture in the UK, while cooking with ingredients harvested within two miles of the venue. And any excess food will be donated to local homelessness charity Julian House (5 October).

You can also feast at Green Park Station and celebrate the 20th anniversary of what is the first ever farmers’ market in the UK, where top local chefs will create

dishes using ingredients from Bath’s local producers and market stallholders (23 September). Don’t miss the Bath Artisan Market either; it’s the city’s biggest independent market, and it will set up street food and produce alongside handcrafted art, gifts and homewares in leafy Queen Square on 24 September.

Younger foodie buffs can get stuck into biscuitdecorating as Great British Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain stops off at the Bath Children’s Literature Festival to share her favourite recipes from her new cookbook, Nadiya’s Bake Me a Festive Story (6 October).

You can also expect sumptuous supper clubs at venues including Igloo (26 September), Cafe L’ard (29 September) and The Chequers (4 October).

The diet can wait.

The Great Bath Feast takes place from 23 September – 8 October at various events around the city. For more information, visit www.greatbathfeast.co.uk and see page 77

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2

1 5 3

4

1. LOVE IS IN THE AIR

2. PEONY FOR YOUR THOUGHTS

3. I WOULD RATHER HAVE

4. LIKE ATTRACTS LIKE

5. MAKE OR BAKE

Pride and Prejudice lino print, £180 This artwork, titled Mr Darcy still Loves Miss Elizabeth,

by Jazmin Velasco, shows one of Pride and Prejudice’s best-loved quotes floating through the sky From Rostra Gallery, 5 George Street, Bath; www.rostragallery.co.uk

Autumn posies, from £18 Florist Lucy Simon will also make seasonal wrist decorations – which ladies would have worn to the balls in Austen’s day – ahead of the Regency Costumed Masked Ball From Article, 3 Bartlett Street, Bath; www.articlebath.com

NOTHING BUT TEA

Fridge magnet, £2.50 each The best things in life are free – well, clearly Mary Crawford in Mansfield Park didn’t think so From the Visitor Information Centre, Abbey Chambers, Abbey Church Yard, Bath; www.visitbath.co.uk

3D Jane Austen cookie cutter, £11.99 Instead of merely a silhouette, you can create an instantly recognisable likeness of Jane in cookies, sandwiches and pastry From The Jane Austen Centre gift shop, 40 Gay Street, Bath; www.janeausten.co.uk

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Jane Austen frame and books teapot, £75 Brew a pot of tea in this quirky, collectible, novelty teapot, and curl up with your favourite novel From Jacks of Bath, 8 Abbey Churchyard, Bath www.jacksofbath.com

7

6

SHOPPING

ED’S CHOICE 8

9

AUSTENITES, 10

UNITE

THE 17TH ANNUAL JANE AUSTEN FESTIVAL IN BATH (8 – 17 SEPTEMBER), MARKS AN IMPORTANT YEAR OF ANNIVERSARIES: 200 YEARS SINCE THE PUBLICATION OF NORTHANGER ABBEY AND PERSUASION, WITH SCENES SET IN THE CITY, AND THE BICENTENARY OF THE AUTHOR’S DEATH. WE’VE SEARCHED LOCAL SHOPS TO FIND A DIVERSE SELECTION OF GIFTS WHICH CELEBRATE BATH’S MOST FAMOUS RESIDENT

6. TAKING PLACE

7. NAME DROPPING

8.READ BETWEEN THE LINES

9. SPEAK IN CIRCLES

10. WEARABLE ART

Destination framed print, from £45 All the fictional places featured in this particular print are from Pride and Prejudice, but you can place a bespoke order for an extra five pounds From Flamingo, 7 Widcombe Parade, Bath; www.flamingobath.co.uk

Jane Austen mug, £10.50 This fine china cup features popular characters from the author’s books, including Northanger Abbey which was set in Bath – the writer’s home from 1801 to 1806 From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

Jane Austen: The Secret Radical, £8.99 Author Helena Kelly feels Jane Austen’s novels are actually deeply subversive and we haven’t been reading them properly From Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath, The Paragon, Bath; www.toppingbooks.co.uk

Inscribed ring, £40 Made by Gemma Atwell in her Kingsway, Bath, studio, this ring is etched with the ‘half agony, half hope’ quote from Persuasion From The Silver Shed, Bath; and available at the Jane Austen Centre gift shop, 40 Gay Street, Bath; www.janeausten.co.uk

Screen printed scarf, from £65 If you have any sense and sensibility, then you will want to wear this painted, pure silkscarf which has been screen printed with text about fashion from Austen’s novels From One Two Five Gallery, 4 Abbey Green, Bath; www.onetwofivegallery.co.uk

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STREET LIFE

GIVE MY REGARDS TO BROAD STREET To take a closer look at the unique and diverse offering, as well as the surprising background, of Broad Street, here we speak to a historian, a reverend, and the owners of a plethora of its colourful indie businesses…

By L I SA E VA NS

MATTER OF TIME

You may have already noticed, but Broad Street is not actually very broad. The name stems from Medieval Bath which prospered from the wool industry and became famous for its tightly woven broadcloth, and there were 50 broad looms in one area of Broad Street alone.

“One derivation of the name is that it was the home of broadloom weavers,” says Bathwick-based historian and author Kirsten Elliott. “This was true. The vestry held the dye pots, and in the yard at the back were the tenters (the racks) for drying the cloth – hence the expression being on ‘tenterhooks’.

“However, architect John Wood says it was a ‘broad street’, but the Georgians added frontages to the older buildings,” she adds.

“Another detail we know for sure is Broad Street is extremely old; it’s shown on Bath’s oldest known map: William Smith’s Map of 1568. At the back of Grace & Mabel, behind the 18th-century frontage, is a 17th-century house. The rear part of Cath Kidston is even older, dating from the 16th century.

From the yard behind Robert Welch’s shop, where Côte Brasserie has its outdoor tables, it is possible to peer up at the back of Cath Kidston and see that it is timber-framed.

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IN GOOD FAITH

Leaving a distinguished mark on the skyline of the city, the most instantly recognisable aspect of Broad Street, which can be seen from far and wide, is St Michael’s Without. Its origins possibly date back to 973 when the first church on this site is thought to have been constructed, and the series of registers of births, marriages and funerals, which began in 1569 and continue to the present day, are among the oldest in the country.

“Four churches have stood upon the same site outside the north gate of the city,” says Reverend Roger Driver of St Michael’s Without. “To St Michael’s Without leaves a distinguished dedicate a church to St Michael was in mark on the skyline of the city keeping with a belief that the Archangel kept guard over an entrance to the city. The first building at that time would have been Norman architecture, and the second was Gothic in style.

“Over the next few centuries, the building went through many challenges and changes brought about by the Reformation,” he adds. “Eventually, in 1741, the building was demolished because of what was referred to as its ‘ruinous and dangerous condition’.

“The third opened in around 1742, and the building was criticised and described as a hideous structure. Some went so far as to say that horses had to be blindfolded before they could be persuaded to pass it.

“The current church is now open almost every day of the year, offering a unique space in the heart of the city. The Christian faith that anchors the building continues in the tradition of wanting to be a positive influence in the city, being open to the community to gather for musical activities, and a café that offers quality food and drink.

It’s a space that offers a haven of peace in w PHOTO BY CHLOE MOORE

I

t’s the historic hill that’s abundant with independent businesses and has a lively air of bonhomie and community spirit. From a windsurfing archaeologist who runs an art salon, to a designer fashion shop owner whose collection is admired across the world, here, Broad Street’s biggest fans tell us a little about their stories, and remind us why this pocket of the city is truly great.

horses

had to be blindfolded

Photo by philip field

before they could be persuaded to pass it

The blend of interesting businesses makes Broad Street a prime spot for curious shoppers

STREET LIFE Ph o t o s b y D E R RY N V R A N C H

a busy area outside and a place of prayer for those seeking a place of stillness in the side chapel.”

TALK SHOP

By far the largest shop on Broad Street is the furniture, fashion and gift emporium that is Rossiters of Bath. The department store first opened in 1961 as a tiny shop selling Scandinavian glassware and china. As the store acquired more space, it began to sell cookware and furniture including the first ranges

by Terence Conran.

“People often refer to Rossiters as the Liberty of the West Country,” says Ann-Marie James, who owns Rossiters with her husband, Peter. “It’s been open for 56 years this year and has significantly grown in size and product offer – consistently identifying new design talent and discerning which new trends will most appeal to our customers.

“My favourite thing about Broad Street is the variety and quality of the stores and restaurants from top to bottom, most of which are independent,” she adds. “It has a local feel despite being very close to busy Milsom Street and the centre of Bath.”

The businesses range from bespoke tailored suit shop Marc

Wallace, to technology, music and cinema experts Audience, and include niche stores such as specialist magazine, zine and art book shop Magalleria, which opened two years ago.

“All day I see people pointing at our shop before crossing the road and coming over,” says Magalleria owner Daniel McCabe. “Nine times out of 10, they’re actually coming across to take a selfie outside The Knob Connection next door.”

ART AT THE HEART

You will have most probably already spotted one of the most memorable window displays in Broad Street which belongs to Broad Street Studio, and that is skeletons riding in a Mini Cooper.

Mike Hill, who owns the business with Fil Norman, says typical shop windows aren’t their style, and the chosen display has proven to be a great photo opportunity for passers-by. Having opened the tattoo shop in in 2009, Mike says Broad Street was, and still is, a great place to work as it’s full of fantastic businesses and people, and they feel at home here.

Jeni Weinberger, the owner of Art Salon – which specialises in fine and decorative art, interiors and art education – agrees.

Clockwise, from above: Flinty Bane at Art Salon where fine art, interiors and education combine; Daniel McCabe with his collection of niche magazines at Magelleria; Daniela Benson specialises in designer labels at Grace & Mabel

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

Clockwise, from below: A wall of treasures at department store Rossiters; Annette Burns-Craig is currently working on her own women’s label at Boho; Dilek Köroglu designs and makes much of the jewellery at Icarus Silver

“I love the street because it consists mainly of independent shops whose owners have a passion and drive for their areas of expertise, and are happy to let you browse or engage in conversation,” says colourful character Jeni whose first love is windsurfing, and whose first job was as an archaeologist. “You could spend hours here.”

Jeni and her team exhibit all around the world – from Singapore to New York. She’s been dealing art for a quarter of a century, but only opened her shop in Bath last October; she says it’s been a great success and Bathonians make for great company.

Looking good

Selling individual designer labels exclusive to them is Grace & Mabel, a business run by sisters Daniela Benson, Kirstie Davey and Shelley Davey-Presland. There, you’ll find the likes of Malene Birger, Ilse Jacobsen and Max Mara, alongside quirky lifestyle gifts, which are shipped from the small store to buyers around the world, from Korea to Australia.

“Broad Street is very eclectic with lots of other one-of-a-kind independent retailers,” says Daniela. “Our shop used to be Payne’s Bootmakers in 1880 and our basement is very spooky; we were told by an old employee that there’s a ghost there – my sisters sense a presence, but I am the cynic yet to be convinced.”

Back to the fashion labels, and Annette Burns-Craig, the owner of clothing, footwear and accessories store Boho is currently working on her own women’s label while also making the finishing touches to a shop revamp, so if you haven’t already paid the store a visit, now is a prime time.

“Broad Street is bit like Notting Hill,” says Annette, who set up shop seven years ago. “It is the destination street for indie shoppers looking for independent stores.”

Dilek Köroglu, who owns Icarus Silver – in which you’ll find unusual jewellery, much of it designed and handmade by Dilek – agrees that the plethora of small businesses is what gives the street its colourful personality. And Katherine Spreadbury, the founder of, and head makeup teacher at, beauty salon Little Lab, relishes the strong sense of community in the street and the diversity of shops. Her own business, for example, isn’t a standard salon, it’s a beauty concept store where the focus is modern aesthetics in which top-of-the-range products are imported from America.

“Lash lifts and natural extensions are the most popular treatments at the moment,” says Katherine who trained at Make-Up Designory (MUD) in LA – one of the most highly regarded make-up schools in the USA. “As are our airbrush makeup workshops and nail bar. Our building is part of the YMCA, so it’s strange to think we have 200 bunk beds above us; it’s crazy how quiet our little shop is.” 

Broad Street is a bit like

Notting Hill. It is the destination street for

shoppers

looking for independent

stores

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 87

ART Salon Ltd, 21 Broad Street, Bath, BA1 5LN 01225 422 220 | team@artsalon.co.uk | www.artsalon.co.uk

Icarus Jewellery

Jewellery as Art 27 Broad Street, Bath BA1 5LW 01225 489088 info@icarusjewellery.com www.icarusjewellery.com

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STREET LIFE Ph o t o s b y D E R RY N V R A N C H

TAKE A BITE

Along with Koh Thai Tapas, Taka Taka Grill, and Ask Italian, you’ll find Best of British Deli – which serves everything from sandwiches on Bertinet Bakery bread, to cakes, quiches and salads – on Broad Street. Its owner, Sarah Greenwell, says her business has evolved greatly since its early days, “We are always looking for new recipes and interesting things to make. Because we bake everything on site, there is no real limit to what we can do, so every day is different.

“Broad Street is a wonderful place full of indie shops with fabulous owners,” she adds. “It’s a little community where everyone is happy to help each other out with anything.”

CLOSE TO HOME

Michelle Sames at Salcombe Trading says the only thing that would make Broad Street better is if it became pedestrianised

SPREADING THE LOVE We asked Broad Street’s shop owners which other business on the thoroughfare are they most likely to be waylaid by...

Michelle Sames at The Salcombe Trading Company: I often seek help from Ella at Mandarin Stone to help choose something gorgeous for our latest project. Also, we love to run up to Best of British and grab something delicious and homemade.

Mandarin Stone, a UK market leader within the natural stone and porcelain industry, was set up in 1989 but remains, after decades, within the family it was founded by. It has grown extensively since its conception, and has showrooms in locations across the UK. Location is certainly key as far as Michelle Sames, the co-owner of The Salcombe Trading Company, is concerned.

“Set between Milsom Street and Waitrose, and attached to Milsom Place, Broad Street’s a fantastic place to be based,” she says.

“It’s a creative, individual, special street, and being in the centre of Bath is inspiring due to the architecture, the history and the people.

Being surrounded by other independent businesses is great too, but most of all our customers, who are a constant support making us want to improve – creatively and professionally – make this street an inspiring place in which to work.”

“There is one thing, in my opinion, that would make the street even better,” she adds. “There is talk of it being pedestrianised.

Coming from Salcombe, where our shop has no traffic outside it, it would be a lot more peaceful.”

Natalie Nash at Best of British – where the menu is different every day

Jeni Weinberger at Art Salon: I most frequently visit Magalleria, Grace & Mabel and Mack Daddy’s. All are run by interesting people who know what they are talking about and are a pleasure to visit.

Daniel McCabe at Magalleria: We have great neighbours (Mack Daddy’s and The Knob Connection) and, further up the hill, everyone at Little Lab and Art Salon are very good friends.

Katherine Spreadbury at Little Lab: I love Rossiters, it’s a true gem of an independent store. Ann-Marie is a lovely lady too.

Annette Burns-Craig at Boho: Rossiters is a great store for mooching in and discovering great finds.

Dilek Köroglu at Icarus Silver: Definition – you’ll find great people there.

Sarah Greenwell at Best of British: Annette at Boho and Maggie from Definition always find me great outfits for any and all occasions, and Mack Daddy’s are my go-to for a haircut.

Ann-Marie James at Rossiters: Kat at Little Lab has created something truly original with her business; The Knob Connection’s staff are very helpful; and my guilty not-so-secret secret is getting a regular fashion fix at Grace & Mabel.

Daniela Benson at Grace & Mabel: I love having a browse around Rossiters and Boho.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 89

20 Broad Street Bath BA1 5LN E: info@littlelab.co.uk T: 01225 310849 www.littlelab.co.uk

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Claire and her team of therapists invite you to a haven of relaxation and beauty in the centre of Bath. Formerly Jennifer Luckham’s Beauty Clinic, the newly named Beauty@ No.32 is one of the longest established salons in the city. Come and enjoy our new look and revitalised collection of treatments – we’d love to welcome you with the special voucher below.

All our treatments are personalised to your specific needs: Thalgo facial treatments • Body treatments & massages • CACI Non-Surgical Facelift • Manicures • Pedicures • Waxing and Electrolysis • Blissful beauty packages • Make-up from the fabulous new Jane Ireldale collection

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How do schools pass the test when it comes to educating pupils and ensure they’re inspired to learn for life?

By SA M A N T H A WA L K E R

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

E D U C AT I O N SPECIAL

OUR CHILDREN ARE GENDERBLIND WITH GIRLS BUILDING

AND SOLDERING THEIR OWN

GAMES CONSOLES, AND BOYS

TAKING THE LEAD IN THE

KITCHEN

W

hen it comes to education, we know that one size doesn’t fit all. And why should it? After all, there are those children who love nothing better than sticking their noses in books, devouring all the facts their little minds can manage, while others may fare better learning in the great outdoors.

The key for their success, says Stonar’s head teacher, Dr Sally Divall, is understanding how each child learns. “We have an embedded culture of care to the individual in a small-school environment,” she says.

“We believe that pupils must understand how they learn and must practise the characteristics such as thoughtful questioning and perseverance that will lead to meaningful learning. This process begins in the prep school with our learning goals, and we encourage each pupil to try out new skills, develop awareness of how they learn, and celebrate their achievements.”

That’s a firm foundation for little minds embarking on their learning at the Atworth school, near Melksham.

And, as the children get older, they develop the skills needed for self-analysis and reflection.

“This enables them to find their own motivation to overcome the inevitable academic challenges that all children should regularly face,” says Sally.

“With strong relationships between staff and

pupils, we have a finely tuned view of each child and, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, we focus on strategies which will inspire and motivate every individual to achieve the best they can.”

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

A wide range of activities await the 620 pupils at Bath’s Royal High School, with each ripe to spark enthusiasm for learning.

“The range of opportunities inside and outside the classroom is impressive, and girls can try lots of different things as they go through the school and decide on their interests,” says head teacher Jo Duncan. “Most especially, we teach girls not to be afraid of new challenges and to have a go even if something is hard; it is this quality which will enable them to continue to learn and grow throughout their lives and help them to be the best they can be.”

Clinics are offered in many subjects so pupils can have additional support, plus a range of academic societies help students enhance their knowledge. These include the MedSoc for aspiring medical students, HiSparc for those interested in physics and the Polyglot Society for languages.

STRETCHED FOR SUCCESS

This page, top: creative success at Bath Academy; bottom: inspired teaching means happy learners; opposite, from top: designed for life at King Edward’s; bright sparks at Heywood Prep; young cricketers at King Edward’s; and a love of learning at Heywood Prep

To get the best out of opportunities offered, schools know they need to help motivate and inspire their young charges.

“We aim to stretch pupils at all levels of attainment,” says Tim Burroughs, deputy head teacher of Bath’s King Edward’s School. “Teaching is supportive and dynamic, and extra help is always on hand, when needed. Our academic teachers are also involved in the pastoral and co-curricular sides of school life, so trusted relations build quickly and well. Pastoral support and academic support go hand-in-hand at KES w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 97

E D U C AT I O N SPECIAL

I EXCITEDLY READ THE A LEVEL RESULTS OF A STUDENT WITH ADD HE WON A PLACE AT UNIVERSITY

and success needs both to thrive.

“Our latest Good Schools Guide review says, ‘This is a school which achieves its exceptionally high standards by support and inspiration. High standards are expected and achieved, but the achievement is grounded in confidence, trust and support rather than academic pressure’.”

ENCOURAGING ACHIEVEMENT

Parents know some children’s school days can be rather testing times – but this is something Corsham’s Heywood Prep aims to avoid. “We spend our time teaching and directing learning, rather than over-testing children and aiming for exam-factory success,” says deputy head teacher Rebecca Mitchell.

“Children aged two to 11 years learn concrete skills in a hands-on way, through a curriculum that is both broad and deep, engaging them and encouraging them to question the world around them. Our aim is to inspire and challenge in equal measure, giving our children the space to try, to take risks and make mistakes in a safe and encouraging environment.

“Small class sizes of 16 enable us to really understand each child’s strengths and next steps, to tailor the curriculum to meet their needs, and to understand what makes them tick. Crucially, the classes are not so small that children cease to benefit from the thoughts and ideas of their peer group; the learning environment is still full of that fizz that it rightly should have.”

All schools told us that gender is irrelevant to aptitude or interest in any particular subject.

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

“Everyone does everything,” enthuses Rebecca.

“Clearly our children are as gender-blind as we are. Our Lego Robotics Team, which has competed against other schools nationally, has seen girls building and soldering their own games consoles, while our co-curricular programme has boys dancing to West End hits and taking the lead in the kitchen.”

GETTING RESULTS

Bath Academy on the corner of Queen Square in Bath takes 120 pupils per year and teaches in groups of less than six students.

The college is well known for its revision and re-sit courses, with intensive A Level and GCSE courses and university foundation programmes.

Head teacher Tim Naylor says, “As a tutorial college, we specialise in tailoring academic courses to the individual needs of first time or retake students to maximise their chances in pursuing successful and satisfying professional careers.

“Students frequently underachieve in public examinations: they can be immature, distracted, frustrated, heartbroken, or unwell. This does not mean that they cannot become excellent A-grade students, given encouragement and personalised support. I remember the excitement on reading the A Level results of a young man with ADD who came to Bath Academy after unsuccessfully studying A Levels twice at schools in both the South West and London. He has achieved grades A*,A,B and went on to study economics and Chinese at SOAS University of London. Young people deserve to be encouraged.” w

Left: studying for success at Bath Academy; right: Stonar’s rider development programme

SCHOOL LIFE “We are building a school in Cambodia with the charity United World Schools.”

The Royal High School “We have a Heroes and Villains open day on 30 September.”

Heywood Prep “Our rider development programme allows our serious riders to pursue equestrian interests alongside their academic work.”

Stonar “We offer a foundation programme to students for medical school.”

Bath Academy

E D U C AT I O N SPECIAL

DIRECTORY Bath Life’s guide to schools in Bath and the surrounding area

Aspire Academy (The Link Centre) Frome Road, Bath, BA2 5RF 01225 832212; www.thelinkschool.org.uk Ages: 4-16; Co-ed

King Edward’s School King Edward’s Senior School & Sixth Form, North Road, Bath BA2 6HU 01225 464313; www.kesbath.com Ages: 3-18; Co-ed; Day

Bath Academy 27 Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2HX 01225 334577; www.bathacademy.co.uk Ages: 16+; Co-ed; Boarding; Day

Kingswood School Lansdown Road, Bath, BA1 5RG 01225 734200; www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk Ages: 3-18; Co-ed; Boarding; Day

The Bath Studio School Frome Road, Bath, BA2 5RF; 01225 831933; www.thebathstudioschool.org.uk Ages: 14-19; Co-ed Beechen Cliff Alexandra Park, Bath BA2 4RE 01225 480466; www.beechencliff.org.uk Ages: 11-18; Boys; Mixed sixth form Bruton School for Girls Sunny Hill, Bruton, BA10 0NT 01749 814400; www.brutonschool.co.uk Ages: 3-18; Girls; Boarding; Day Calder House School Thickwood Lane, Colerne, Chippenham SN14 8BN; 01225 742329; www.calderhouseschool.co.uk Ages: 7–13; Co-ed: Day Churchfields, The Village School Bradford Road, Atworth, Melksham SN12 8HY 01225 703026; www.churchfields.wilts.sch.uk Ages: 4–11; Co-ed Hayesfield Girls’ School Brougham Hayes Campus & Upper Oldfield Park Campus; 01225 426151; www.hayesfield.com Ages: 11-18; Girls; Mixed sixth form; Day

Supporting enquiring minds at Stonar

Monkton Combe Monkton Senior School, Monkton Combe, Bath, BA2 7HG; 01225 721137; www.monktoncombeschool.com Ages: 2-19; Co-ed; Boarding; Day Moorlands Junior School Chantry Mead Road, Bath, BA2 2DE; 01225 421912; www.moorlandsfederation.org Ages: 4-11; Co-ed; Day Oldfield Park Infant School Dorset Close, Bath, BA2 3RF 01225 422903; www.oldfieldparkinfants.co.uk Ages: 4-7; Co-ed; Day Oldfield Park Junior School Lymore Terrace, Bath BA2 2JL; 01225 423477; www.oldfieldpark juniorschool.com Ages: 7-11; Co-ed; Day Oldfield School Kelston Road, Bath, BA1 9AB 01225 423582; www.oldfieldschool.com Ages: 11-18; Co-ed; Day The Paragon School Lyncombe House, Lyncombe Vale, Bath, BA2 4LT; 01225 310837; www.paragonschool.co.uk Ages: 3-11; Co-ed; Day Prior Park College Prior Park College, Ralph Allen Drive, Bath, BA2 5AH; 01225 835353; www.priorparkcollege.com Ages: 11-18; Co-ed; Boarding; Day

Ralph Allen School Claverton Down Road, Bath BA2 7AD; 01225 832936; www.ralphallen.bathnes.sch.uk Ages: 11-18; Co-ed; Day

Lympsham Green, Odd Down, Bath BA2 2UN; 01225 832112 www.stmartinsgarden.org.uk Ages: 3-11; Co-ed; Day

The Royal High School Lansdown Road, Bath, BA1 5SZ; 01225 313877; www.royalhighbath.gdst.net Ages: 3-18; Girls; Boarding; Day St Andrew’s CE Primary School Northampton Street, Bath, BA1 2SN; 01225 310135; www.standrewsprimarybath.com Ages: 3-11; Co-ed; Day St Gregory’s Catholic College Combe Hay Lane, Bath, BA2 8PA 01225 832873; www.st-gregorys.org.uk Ages: 11-18; Co-ed St Margarets Prep School 63 Curzon Street, Calne, SN11 0DF; 01249 857220; www.stmargaretsprep.org.uk Ages: 3 -11; Co-ed and Day St Martin’s Garden Primary School

St. Mark’s CoE Secondary School Baytree Road, Larkhall, Bath BA1 6ND; 01225 312661; www.st-marks.org.uk Ages: 11-18; Co-ed; Day Stonar School Cottles Park, Atworth, Wiltshire, SN12 8NT; 01225 701740; www.stonarschool.com Ages: Girls 2-18, and Boys 2-12; Boarding;Day St Saviour’s CE Junior School Eldon Place, Larkhall, Bath BA1 6TG; 01225 310137 www.stsaviours-jun.co.uk Ages: 3-11; Co-ed; Day Wellsway School Chandag Road, Keynsham, Bristol BS31 1PH; 0117 986 4751; www.wellswayschool.com Ages: 11-18; Co-ed.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 101

Independent Tutorial College oering: A Levels, GCSEs, Re-sits and Supplementary Tuition We oer retake courses for students who do not achieve the A level grades they require to progress to the university of their choice. We also run bespoke courses for students with unique requirements.

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World-renowned Dutch landscape designer Piet Oudolf is to thank for these informal yet intricate gardens

Absolute freedom This month sees the third anniversary of the planting of Oudolf Field of Hauser & Wirth in nearby Bruton. It therefore seems the perfect time to see how the landscaped gardens are progressing and how they plan to celebrate‌ Wor d s by N ic k Woodhouse Photo g raphy by Ja son Ingr a m

GARDENS

W

HUGELY APPARENT AS YOU STEP OUT OF THE GALLERY

PHOTO COURTESY OF HAUSER & WIRTH

THIS SENSE OF LIBERTY IS

ith locations in London, New York, Zurich and Los Angeles, the far sleepier setting of Durslade Farm in Bruton might not initially spring to mind as the obvious next step for Iwan and Manuela Wirth’s global arts enterprise. The farm was initially a weekend home for the husband-and-wife team, offering a tranquil retreat from their busy working lives, perhaps, too, a nod to their rural Swiss backgrounds.

Over time, however, it offered more than this; their children attended the local schools and it became the family home. The couple conceived the concept of the gallery from very organic beginnings, keen to bring together in one place their core passions of contemporary and modern art, architecture, food and gardening.

Working with the community was fundamental to the couple, so even in the embryonic stages of planning, the local community was fully consulted, with the aim to represent their vision of the space as much as that of the enterprise’s founders.

Many of the buildings, including several Grade-II listed farm buildings dating back to 1760, had fallen into disrepair and so, in 2012, restoration started in earnest. The additional construction of two new wings created one continuous internal space in which to exhibit the works of established and emerging artists alike. The choice of materials here is not only sympathetic to the setting and adjoining buildings, it also subtly distinguishes old from new. For me, however, the real joy is the transition from the farm buildings themselves to the neighbouring perennial meadows and thereafter the rural landscape beyond. And for this, we have the world-renowned Dutch landscape designer Piet Oudolf to thank.

And arguably, in equal quantities, the very brief given to him by Iwan, who saw no difference between the work of an artist and that of a landscape designer. The brief was, simply, ‘absolute freedom’.

This sense of liberty is hugely apparent as you step out of the gallery and get your first glimpse of the gardens which sit effortlessly amongst the fields and hills beyond. True to the gallery’s strong sense of community, local landscapers worked alongside equally local building contractors and architects.

As the site had rarely been farmed, due to the underlying clay making for very wet conditions, there was only a minimal amount of topsoil. So, 2,500 tons of top soil was brought in, providing greater drainage and a chance for the planned 26,000

herbaceous perennials to thrive. Kentucky coffee trees (Gymnocladus dioicus) frame the view from the gallery onto intricately shaped and contoured beds that provide a nod to more familiar classical gardens expected of such a setting. The clever combination of naturalistic grasses and perennials, however, adds a far more relaxed feel, one of looseness and informality.

Since 2015, the Oudolf Field has also been home to the Radic´ Pavilion. Initially unveiled at London’s Serpentine Gallery and designed by Chilean architect Smiljan ´ this uniquely shaped structure feels Radic, like it has always been there, nestling in amongst Oudolf’s scheme with ease, and adding a focal point that demands to be approached and viewed first-hand. It’s more than a modern-day folly, though; instead, it’s home to a range of events run throughout the year by the gallery and gardens. True to their core values of sustainability, conservation and education, events are both wide-ranging in their appeal to all ages and in their subject matters. Of particular note and in celebration of the gardens’ third anniversary, is What Are Gardens For?; a series of talks curated by Caroline Donald, garden editor of The Sunday Times. The series starts on 8 September and includes guests such as Monty Don, leading floral artist Shane Connolly, and garden designers Isobel and Julian Bannerman.

The gardens provide year-round interest thanks to an extensive programme of spring bulb planting and the dried, architectural seed heads of winter months. But it is undoubtedly this very time of year that the space really comes into its own. A leading figure in the New Perennial Movement, Piet Oudolf is well known for his swathes of block planting, and this space doesn’t disappoint. Meandering paths intersect perfume-filled beds, home to large drifts of boldly-coloured varieties of helenium and aster.

Approaching the further edges of the garden, the palette becomes much more muted and the form more structural, with plant choices such as eupatorium and eryngium. The final touch comes from brief gaps within the hedging, marking the perimeter of the field and offering inviting glimpses of the fields beyond and the hills looming above them. The brief of absolute freedom is undeniably fulfilled.

For more, visit www.hauserwirthsomerset.com.

Nick Woodhouse is the co-director of interior and garden design company Woodhouse & Law on 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath; 01225 428072; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 109

Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions

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

75,000 patients are estimated to visit the centre every year

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

HEALTH

PATIENT-CENTRED TREATMENT UNDER ONE ROOF Plans for a £16m Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases (RNHRD) and Therapies Centre have been unveiled at the RUH The purpose-built centre will be located close to the main entrance of the RUH, and will bring together services already located at the hospital with those currently at the Min in the city centre.

These include rheumatology, therapies and pain management services, with an event held at the hospital to explain the vision of the new centre.

“We know that approximately 75,000 patients will visit this new building every year to access our range of services and every patient is important as the next,” says Gina Sargeant, head of therapies at the RUH. Whether they visit once or twice for an acute sports injury, need a course of treatment – such as after a heart attack for cardiac rehabilitation – or come regularly to learn self-management of their condition, this new centre will offer something for every RUH

patient journey.” The centre is expectedto be fully operational by 2018/2019.

Donors were able to tour the hospital’s redevelopment programme and the existing therapies department and learn more about the plans.

Future patients will be treated in a patient-centred environment that the hospital says is essential for supporting their healing process.

A fundraising campaign run by the hospital’s charity The Forever Friends Appeal has a ‘match funding challenge’, in association with the Brownsword Charitable Foundation, to help raise £2m towards the total cost of the building. It has pledged to match every pound donated by the public up to £1m. www.ruh.nhs.uk

“WE MUST SUPPORT AND APPRECIATE THE COMMUNITY, THIS ENABLES US TO HELP IMPROVE THE LIVES OF ANYONE WHO MAY NOT ALWAYS COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT WITH US” Marcus Arundell from HomeLets on giving something back. For more, see page 115

£16m THE BIG NUMBER

The cost of a brand new Royal National Hosptal.

For more, see opposite

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

BUSINESS INSIDER

ONE TO WATCH

JAIME BRAIN The clinical dental technician is cleverly making ill-fitting dentures a thing of the past.

He has been working in dentistry for over 20 years, having trained at Cardiff University, and in Canada and London. He owns JB Denture Clinics in Bath and Bristol and runs them with his wife Tiziana How did JB Denture Clinic come about?

After working for many years for a practice in Taunton and Bristol, then in London as an associate, and having gathered all the experience needed, I really wanted to be able to open my own practice so that I could put my personal stamp on my own business. I wanted to relocate to the Bristol and Bath area where I knew that prosthetics clinical dental technicians were very scarce and I knew that my services could prove invaluable. I also really wanted to move after our daughter was born as Bath is the perfect place for a young family.

When did you open?

In September 2013 I moved back to the South West and opened my own denture clinic and laboratory in Bristol, while still travelling back to south London every fortnight to see my referred patients and working on same-day implant cases with various dentists in London, Reading and Bath. In June 2017 I opened our second denture clinic in our hometown of Bath which is where I am now based.

What did you want to be when you were little?

I wanted to be a vet or a professional footballer.

What was your first job?

I used to ‘stick up’ skittles in the local pub skittle alley.

What makes JB Denture Clinic stand out from others?

As everyone’s mouth is different and dentures are a very personal matter it is very important for us to spend a lot of time with our patients and treat each person as an individual.

Everyone’s perception of how they should or would like to look will differ from person to person, so by telling us what they are looking for we can advise on what we can do for them.

We provide custom-made private dentures of the highest quality, we spend time with the patient before, during and after treatment and nothing is ever rushed with us. We make everything ourselves in our own on-site laboratory and this means we get a better fit and better overall results.

WHEN A PATIENT TELLS YOU THEY NOW FEEL HAPPY ABOUT THEMSELVES IT MAKES THE CHALLENGES WORTHWHILE

What are the best aspects of your job?

I enjoy helping people who have often struggled to wear dentures comfortably in the past to finally enjoy life again so that they can eat, smile and feel confident when they go out with family and friends. When a patient tells you they now feel happy again about themselves and tell you all that they had gone through before, it really makes the challenges and the long hours all worthwhile.

Do you like going to the dentist?

I really don’t mind going to the dentist and don’t really feel nervous.

Dentistry is so much better nowadays; when we hear stories from our older patients about their traumatic experiences way back in the old days you can understand why some people still are concerned.

You work with your wife Tiziana – how do you both complement each other in the business?

When Tiziana quit her marketing job for an Italian wine company in London four years ago to start working together, it was the best decision she could have made. Working together can sometimes have its challenges as, try as you may, work issues will tend to creep in even after a hard day’s work, and we do sometimes have to discuss things at home, but, at the same time, we both know that this is our business and we both care profoundly for all aspects of it. While I ensure that all 112 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

of my work is of the highest quality and level, Tiziana makes sure that all of the patients are made at ease as she enjoys talking to people about many different subjects. Tiziana also deals with promoting our business and with the office side of things, which may be a little tedious but it’s necessary for any business. When a patient tells us how happy and comfortable they are, we know it was a team effort and that, together, we work well.

How does having good quality, well-fitting dentures improve people’s lives?

Today, the technology behind dentures has become so advanced that you will barely notice a difference in your appearance. Each set of dentures is personalised to your gums and tongue, your lips and cheeks, and how you would like them to look.

A complete or full denture replaces your natural teeth and gives support to your cheeks and lips. Without this support, sagging facial muscles can make a person look older, and you will find it harder to eat and speak properly.

Dentures can be made to closely match your natural teeth so that your appearance isn’t altered. This will help with chewing your food better, thus improving your quality of life, feeling more confident about yourself and overall making you a happier person.

What next for JB Denture Clinic?

We want to concentrate on becoming integral members of the Bath community and making sure JB Denture Clinic in the city becomes as successful as the clinic in Bristol – we know that we have to work very hard at it. In the future, I would love to be able to go to poorer countries and make free dentures for people in need.

What was your company’s proudest moment?

Being nominated and reaching the finals two years in a row at the Aesthetic Dentistry Awards in 2016 and 2017.

www.jbdentures.co.uk

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

Asha Francis

PASSING IT ON Asha Francis has been appointed Team Bath Netball’s assistant coach.

Her key responsibility will be working with University of Bath students in British Universities & Colleges Sport [BUCS] competitions but she will work across all the Team Bath Netball programme, including the Vitality Superleague highperformance team and the development of the new Futures Performance Pathway.

“This is an exciting opportunity to work with a great group of coaches right across a world-class netball set up and it’s certainly one I couldn’t let pass me by,” says Asha. www.teambath.com

ON THE MOVE Visit Bath has confirmed the move of the Visitor Information Centre from Abbey Chambers to Bridgewater House, Terrace Walk, at the end of September. Its current site, overlooking Kingston Parade, is being taken on by Bath Abbey as part of its Footprint project. David James, chief executive of Visit Bath says, “The sleek design of the new space will allow us to become more digitally interactive and offer an enhanced online retail, ticketing and tours service.” www.visitbath.co.uk

BOTH PHOTOS BY ROY NEWPORT

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC

A scheme set up by Bath Rugby Foundation to help a group of overweight men has led to better health and the formation of a new team.

Last year, Bath Rugby Foundation helped 60 men lose weight and improve their physical and mental wellbeing in its Move Like A Pro programme, and now some have gone on to form their own rugby team, the Bath Spartans.

They are also volunteering at the foundation’s new mixed ability rugby sessions at Walcot RFC, made up of young adults with physical or learning disabilities.

Ian Wollacott, Bath Spartans and Move Like A Pro graduate says, “It’s great to be able to give back to the charity who does so much in the community. I thoroughly enjoy the sessions and the banter.”

Dean Cole, one of the mixed ability team has gone from strength to strength since joining the squad.

Tom Clifford passing it on; inset: Dean Cole

“I’ve never seen Deano so focused and wearing the biggest smile,” says his mother Kim. “Deano literally can’t wait for the sessions, he has experienced the magic of rugby, teaching him teamwork and learning to trust his fellow players.”

For more: www.bathrugbyfoundation.com

BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY From city centre conferences to networking breakfasts, make a note of these dates and make them work for you 1 1 SE PTE MBE R

Bath Life Business Club at the Royal Crescent Hotel. Fresh thinking over a fine lunch with guest speakers Andrew and Mel Taylor, founders of the Bath Half.

Tickets £50; 12pm – 2.30pm; www.bathlifebusinessclub.com

fellow business owners and entrepreneurs. 11am – 1pm; £6.95; www.eventbrite.co.uk 13 SEP TEMBER

14 SEP TEM B ER

The Constructing Excellence Bath Club is holding an information, networking and drinks event at No. 15 Great Pulteney.

5pm – 7.30pm; £12 – £30; www.eventbrite.co.uk

Non-Exec Director Networking Event by NEDonBoard in Bath.

Develop your board level network 19 SEP TEM B ER with fellow NEDs, chairmen, 1 3 SE PTE MBE R Business breakfast – The Future CEOs and board members.

Netwalking in the Great Outdoors. 6.30pm; £20 – £40; of Work at Bath Function Rooms, Meet at Bath Spa Station and Green Park Station, Bath; 8am – www.nedonboard.com walk, talk and network along 10am; www.eventbrite.co.uk the Kennet and Avon Canal with

Finding jobs for people and people for jobs Specialising in the provision of temporary and permanent recruitment solutions across Industrial and Commercial sectors at all levels throughout Bath, Wiltshire & Somerset. z

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BUSINESS INSIDER

TERRIFIC THREE Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing or important local business stories right now

Marcus Arundell is all smiles

ANOTHER RECORD-BREAKING AWARDS ANTICIPATED Only sponsorship places in just three categories are expected to remain this month for the 2018 Bath Life Awards – a full seven months before the event on 1 March.

A strictly limited number of Silver Sponsorships including special tables for eight in either the Ball Room or Tea Room will go on sale on 23 September.

“There are still several ways in which local businesses can get involved with the Bath Life Awards” says MediaClash events manager Steph

Another sold-out glittering Bath Life Awards looms on March 1

Dodd. “From sponsoring a category to supporting our ‘shoulder events’, showing your support for the awards not only means involvement with a remarkable event but also reaps the benefits of seven months of high-profile marketing.”

Shoulder events available for creative sponsorship include the Finalists & Sponsors Reception in February, the Champagne Reception on Awards night, 1 March; or the special Winners’ Dinner in March.

The 2017 Awards saw over 290 nominations, a record number of finalists – and a spectacular evening event with over 500 guests and a further 140 on the waiting list.

The impressive list of 2018 Awards Sponsors so far includes: Headline Sponsor the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, with their brand partner Taittinger, Platinum Sponsor Bristol Airport, and Category Sponsors Bath BID, First Bath, Novia Financial, Savills, Tile & Flooring, Apex Hotels, Bryers, soVision IT, Bluefin Insurance, Clifton Marquee Company, Enlightened Lighting, Stone King, HomeLets Bath, Hawker Joinery, Kersfield, Bath VW, Bath Audi and Bath Rugby.

address can be designed on our mats. They are extremely durable and machine washable. Our Gin Palace doormat has been very popular as have our rugby themed designs across cards, prints, tea towels and doormats. Also our dog treats made from a recipe by Michel Roux Snr have been going down very well with the local canine community.”

A Bath business, founded after a growing market for rental properties was spotted, has celebrated 25 years.

HomeLets is run by Marcus Arundell who took over in 2014. The business was set up by his parents who had previously developed residential housing sites in Oxford and Bristol.

“Having settled in the city, they saw a gap in the market for what at that time was a lesser known but growing housing tenure,” says Marcus. “HomeLets of Bath Limited (now HomeLets) was subsequently born and moved into offices on Edgar Buildings, George Street in 1992.

“HomeLets has always been about its clients and the team that works tirelessly to support them. Over the years, the key changes have really been legislative, with government consistently bringing forward red tape in order to regulate our industry.”

The company has grown over the years with 12 staff and purpose-built offices in George Street.

“We are wholly independent and therefore able to provide flexible, bespoke arrangements for our clients,” he adds.

“We aim to treat all our clients, both landlords and tenants, fairly, and how we would wish to be treated ourselves.

In some respects, both parties are as important as each other and therefore we take great pride in helping people find homes, as well as looking after those homes.”

The business plays an active role in the community and supports local charities explains Marcus, “To give back and assist others within our local community enables us to help improve the lives of anyone who may not always come into direct contact with HomeLets.”

For more: www.flamingobath.co.uk

For more: www.homeletsbath.co.uk

For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Local knowledge and a passion for design will see Bath’s intriguing card and design shop Flamingo reach its second birthday this month.

The indie shop on Widcombe Parade is owned

by Simon and Amanda Brown who have lived in the area for nearly 20 years.

“Cards, art and gifts are our main offering,” says Amanda. “We specialise in bespoke and unique designs mostly produced by me but we also have some work from local artists and suppliers that complement what I do and offer variety. My work is varied and includes largescale paintings, intricate cut-out framed designs and photographic pictures which I cover in resin to give a high gloss finish.”

Gin is very much the ‘in drink’ at the moment, and a range of doormats leaves people in very little doubt about what a household’s tipple of choice is when they step over the threshold.

“We have recently started designing our own unique doormats,” Amanda says.

“We can do anything and in a large spectrum of colours. Anything from your house or family name to the exact co-ordinates of your

QUARTER OF A CENTURY

Amanda Brown’s busy celebrating

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BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2017

RESTAURANT WINNER Sponsored by

CORKAGE This indie eatery now has two sites in the city – and an all-important Bath Life Award. Richard Knighting, who co-owns it with Marty Grant tells us more...

So how did it feel to win a Bath Life Award? How did you celebrate? And where is your award now?

It felt great – it was a huge surprise! We’re still celebrating – we had a great night out with our staff and then it was back to it – the award is sitting behind the bar at Corkage on Walcot Street.

What do you think makes Corkage stand out from its competitors?

Because of the informality of our approach, the convivial feel of the restaurant and the interactive way we run service. We also have great staff that make the difference.

How did you get into doing what you do in the first place?

Marty and I both had very different careers prior to working in hospitality. We met through being in the trade in Bath and worked on a couple of projects together prior to setting up Corkage as a pop-up in December 2015.

Has it met or exceeded with your initial plans, and your expectations?

And if so how?

Yes, it has gone way beyond our expectations.

Our initial plans were to run Corkage as a pop-up for three months and use an empty site – it was designed to be taken down in a couple of days!

Corkage seems to have picked up loyal local following which is an enormous compliment to any local business. It is their opinion and word of mouth which has given Corkage the opportunity to thrive, so it’s a massive thanks to them that we are still here.

We’ve also been fortunate to have caught the eye of a few of the nationals and been kindly reviewed.

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

Marty and Richard’s faces say it all

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

Yes absolutely, Bath is a small city and the independents need locals to support them and vice versa.

What do you love most about your job?

The diversity of the job is great, as is the interaction with our guests; however, the most rewarding part of the job for both of us is the hubbub of a happy venue.

I WAS TOLD TO FIND A CAREER WITH BETTER HOURS AND PAY BUT I IGNORED IT Have there been any particularly tricky times for Corkage?

Every day is tricky when you are a small independent business.

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

Corkage Chapel Row has just opened so we have much to learn about running two sites, and dividing our time between both will be a challenge. We’d like to see Chapel Row settle into its rhythm and keep Walcot happy, and then who knows… perhaps a new city for a new Corkage?

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

Go for it – it’s a big scary step, but find somebody with experience in your field as a sounding board for your ideas as there are plenty of potential pitfalls and blind alleys that

can make life more challenging than it might otherwise need to be.

What do you love most about working in the city?

Bath is wonderful city to live in with young kids, and a great place to hang out with friends. The proximity to the countryside is great so you can have the best of the city or be out in the sticks in no time at all.

What do you do with your spare time?

We both spend as much time with our families as we can as we both have young children.

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

My sister (when she was a chef ) told me not to be a chef and follow a career that offered better hours, pay and quality of life. So, I did. Then I ignored the advice and started cooking. And here we are!

Who are your business heroes?

Successful people who still have time for others – personally I admire Robin Hutson who owns the Pig Hotels – he seems very approachable, yet he must be incredibly busy.

His businesses always have the support of great teams, surely the sign of a great leader?

We met Paul Boutinot from Waterkloof Wines recently and he is inspirational, still following his dreams and not slowing down, again a very busy man with great energy yet he finds the time to spend with people.

Share a fact that might surprise us…

Marty’s hair is real.

For more: www.corkagebath.com

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PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

Discover contemporary living in glorious Georgian surrounds in this courtyard apartment in Cavendish Crescent

By E V E LY N GR E E N

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

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

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PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

O

ften on these pages, we showcase imposing properties with multiple bedrooms, vast swathes of land, and luxury extras such as cinema rooms and state-of-the-art spas, but we’ve chosen a much more humble abode this time around: a two-bedroom apartment with not a bell or a whistle in sight. If you’re wondering why, it’s down to a reason Phil (Spencer) and Kirsty (Allsopp) would agree is one of, if not the, most important factors to consider when buying a home – location, location, location.

When a stunning example of a rarely available Grade-II listed apartment is up for sale in one of Bath’s famous crescents, then we simply must talk about it.

You’ll find the elegant Georgian home on the commanding Cavendish Crescent which was designed by John Pinch and built for William Broom (a spectacular builder) between 1815 and 1830, making it one of the last set-piece Georgian terraces to have been completed in Bath. The fronts of the house are identical architecturally with the entrance doors set within arched openings emphasised by restricted stone surrounds.

Of the crescents in Bath, Cavendish might not be quite as well known as some of its larger, more ornate counterparts, but, conveniently situated in a prestigious location on the lower slopes of Lansdown on Sion Hill, a 10-minute walk to the centre of Bath, it occupies a sought-after, south-facing position. Bordering Victoria Park and the Approach Golf Course, it has some seriously covetable views to match.

Sitting on the lower ground floor, the townhouse has 122 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise, from top left: the spacious openplan sitting room with focal-point fireplace; the sun hits the courtyard in the afternoons; you’ll find a freestanding tub in the bathroom; the slick, chic kitchen

HOUSE NUMBERS

1,003

square foot of space

£525,000£575,000 price

2

bedrooms

2

Courtyards

a façade that exudes history and yet, the inside of this courtyard apartment, while making the most of its period features, is also refreshingly contemporary.

It offers stunning and spacious open-plan living that has 21st-century life firmly in mind. Step into the light and bright sitting room – a great social space – and you’ll immediately get the measure of the place. Many of the rooms have period features – the two sash windows and an ornate, focal-point feature fireplace in the living room being just two examples – yet the design remains fresh and up-to-date throughout the property.

The sleek fitted kitchen is a small, cosy space, especially by comparison to the the expansive living room, but it’s pristine and well thought-out nonetheless – as is the recessed alcove to the other side of the sitting room, currently set up as the dining area.

There’s an easy sense of flow to this apartment, and just off the kitchen, you’ll find the master bedroom, with two more sash windows to the rear, and the spot-lit bathroom with an impressive free-standing, roll-top bath. There’s also a walk-in shower area, utility space and a second double bedroom to the back of the apartment.

The bonus of being at lower ground floor level, is that this apartment comes with not one, but two courtyard areas – perfect for secluded al fresco dining.

For us, this apartment on Cavendish Crescent strikes the perfect balance between historic and contemporary living in Bath, it’s light and bright and we can’t imagine it hanging around for long.

The Apartment Company, 1 Queen Square,Bath, BA1 2HA; 01225 471144; www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk

Woodcote, 112 Church Street, Hilperton, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 7RG Guide Price ÂŁ735,000 Woodcote House is a handsome detached Georgian family home situated within the well-regarded recently bypassed village of Hilperton 11 miles south east of Bath offering excellent access to Trowbridge & Westbury train stations and main roads: A350, M4 and A36. Hilperton village offers a fantastic community feel with pub, primary schools, St Michaels Church, village hall and local shops close by. Countryside walks can be found extremely closely and the Kennet & Avon Canal, which attracts a variety of Wildlife, is within walking distance. This stunning period home boasts light, airy, and spacious accommodation, whilst still retaining a cosy feel. The extensive accommodation would be ideally suited for the growing family or family combined with elderly relatives. Woodcote boasts extensive period features, three large reception rooms which all enjoy duel aspects, family/study room, kitchen/breakfast room with Aga, utility room and large laundry room. To the first floor are four large bedrooms, two dressing rooms, family bathroom, en-suite bathroom and two newly refurbished luxury wet rooms. The large enchanting well-tended walled gardens are stocked with a variety of plants, shrubs and established trees which all help to provide a highly private aspect. To the front of the house is an extensive driveway providing plenty of parking and potential to construct a car port or garage subject to planning consent. It also enjoys a private aspect due to the trees and 6ft brick wall which encloses three sides of the property. Viewing is highly recommended and is the only way of being able to really appreciate the charm, character and spacious living this grand family home is able to offer. No Onward Chain!

Orchard House, Rood Ashton Park, West Ashton, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 6AT Guide Price ÂŁ725,000 A fantastic opportunity to purchase a large detached house tucked away within a secluded plot of approximately 1.1 Acres within the Rood Ashton Park area close to the popular village of West Ashton. This spacious family home has benefited from a programme of extensions, alterations and cosmetic updates within the last 10 years and boasts 360 degree views of either open countryside and well established mature gardens and trees. Features include electric gates enclosing private grounds, sweeping drive leading to house, handmade shaker style kitchen with island and granite work surfaces, large living room with stone fire place and wood burning stove, four good sized bedrooms, bathroom and en-suite.

5c/d Fore Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 8HD | 01225 777720 | www.kingstons.biz |

SERVICES GUIDE

ALLERGY TESTING

ALLERGY TESTING Feeling unwell? May I help you?

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SERVICES GUIDE

HOLIDAY RENTALS

DATING AGENCY

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B AT H L I V E S

Q&A

H

aving won the Miss Bath pageant crown for 2017, Amelia will go on to represent the city in finals of Miss Great Britain this month. In the past, she won the first ever Miss Brainy Beauty at Miss England, and has previously competed in Miss Great Britain. Here she tells us more about her interests outside of pageants, and why there’s more to winning than looking good…

Winning the Miss Bath title, and to have the opportunity to represent the city at Miss Great Britain, is an honour…

Soon after winning the title, I was able to take part in Bath Carnival which was so much fun. The team did an amazing job at putting it on and it really showcased the energy this city has.

There is so much more to a beauty pageant than looks…

Now they are about the whole person. There are no height restrictions or size limitations – every girl is celebrated for who she is. Miss Great Britain celebrates the inner beauty of women; the judges are ultimately looking for a strong, compassionate and independent winner – more of a role model.

They are a powerful platform to do good…

Every pageant system is linked to a charity and all of the contestants fundraise and raise awareness for the charities.

You are requested to showcase a talent…

I’m teaching my Golden Retriever, Hector, heelwork to music. Hopefully he will appeal to the judges. I’ve worked with Avon Dog Services and we have perfected several moves to music.

I started competing when I was 19…

I used to love watching the elegance and beauty and see the good work that the beauty queens did, and I feel privileged to have the opportunity to compete and meet so many other independent, positive women who all have the same desire to help others. It’s a way to challenge yourself, and to have a voice to help others be heard.

It’s so easy to compare yourself to others…

But when you do this, the harder you’ll find it to celebrate the beauty in you. Whenever you need reminding of how wonderful you are, stop for a moment and think about everything that makes you amazing. Look at yourself through your friends’ eyes – how do they see you? You are your harshest critic and you don’t need to be.

AMELIA WATT

The newly crowned Miss Bath on her master’s degree, her obsession with ice-cream, and her dancing Golden Retriever, Hector I live in Kingsdown, but am regularly in central Bath…

I’m keen to do as much for Bath with my title as possible. I love Bath, there’s always something going on, and there’s a positive energy about the city. There are so many secret places, beautiful parks and stunning views; I don’t think it would be possible to ever tire of the city. The history and story is such a part of Bath, and I love that the heritage is preserved for everyone to enjoy.

almost every weekend as a part-time ‘princess’ kids’ party host and preparing for two national beauty pageant finals. It was such a hard year but I’m so glad I did it.

I can easily lose myself for hours shopping in Bath…

I picked up the fabric for my opening-round dress at the Sewing Studio on Charles Street recently, and I’ve now got a one-of-a-kind outfit. I also love the cocktails at Circo, and am keen to try Framptons. I love the Bertinet Bakery and Green Park Brasserie and would happily visit Swoon and The Real Italian Ice Cream Company daily!

To win Miss Great Britain and bring the crown back to Bath would be incredible…

I would use the title as a way to help others and to create a positive role model in pageantry. A national title is a great aid for doing charity work and is a way of being presented with new and exciting opportunities.

My favourite view in the city is…

The one from Alexandra Park; it’s breathtaking.

But I also love the Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge. I enjoy spotting old advertisements on buildings as I walk around too.

If I need a bit of a boost…

I wear crystals to help bring out the best energies.

I love rose quartz – the stone of unconditional love, compassion, peace and healing – but I wear others depending on what I will be doing that day.

My biggest achievement is…

Graduating with a distinction in my master’s degree in business management. This was an intense course and I was also working

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

If I owned Bath for a day…

I’d try to make it easier for independent businesses in the city, so that more of them are able to set up and flourish. They make the city so vibrant, interesting and unique.

I am the only beauty queen (that I know of) to have braces…

Affinity Dental Care have been looking after me; I was nervous about having them again as an adult but you can barely notice them and I hope to make them the accessory of the year.

When I’m not competing in pageants…

I work as innovation marketing executive at the charity Guide Dogs. I work on new campaigns to encourage people to support the life-changing work that Guide Dogs does. We also get to see first-hand the work they do and even sometimes meet the dogs in training.

To see Amelia’s progress at the Miss Great Britain competition on 14-15 September, visit: www.missgreatbritain.co.uk