Bath Life – issue 368

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property @BathLifeMag

NEW LOOK

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 368 / 22 JUNE – 6 JULY 2018 / £3

ISSUE 368 / 22 JUNE – 6 JULY 2018 / FINISHING TOUCH

PEARL CRUSH BESPOKE AND BEAUTIFUL WAYS TO REJUVENATE YOUR ROOMS TAKE IT OUTSIDE

SUNNY SPACES TO DINE AL FRESCO

BIG LITTLE BUYS INDIE SHOPS’ CHOICE

LIGHT HOUSE

OPEN-PLAN LIVING ON LANSDOWN

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE Outdoor dining comes in all shapes and

sizes. We visit some of the best spots on page 38 BELOW Bath’s indies showcase their favourite pieces of the moment (page 96)

T

he saying goes that you should ‘scratch beneath the surface’, but if that surface is crafted from exquisite black mother of pearl – as featured on our front cover – then it’s probably best to leave it be. The bronzeflecked patina is created by locally based Anka Metal Coatings, which specialises in wondrous, bespoke interior and exterior finishes; they’re the ones responsible for The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa’s gold-look bar, and they’ve put the lustrous finishing touches on many a super yacht, using liquid metal technology. Take a closer look at their interior rejuvenation techniques on page 128.

Talking of beautiful things, as July is Independent Retailer Month, we’ve asked Bath’s indie shop owners to select and showcase for us their favourite products of the moment – see the gorgeous results on page 96.

The sun is peeping through the clouds as I type, and I’m eager to get out and frolic in it, and by frolic I just mean sit down and eat something delicious. Handy, then, that we have an al fresco guide in this issue, isn’t it? So if, like me, you’re desperate to combine dining, Vitamin D absorption, live beats and good vibes only, turn to page 38 for all the rooftop, pavement, balcony, courtyard and garden locations in which you can do just that.

Elsewhere, we’ve had a chat with the legend that is Glastonbury founder Michael Eavis (page 68); we’ve been given a tour around one of our Georgian city’s most modern homes (page 120); and have delighted in dough at five of the top local pizza places (page 91).

Enjoy!

LISA EVANS Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag Instagram @bathlifemag

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 3

Issue 368/ 22 June – 6 July 2018 COVER ANKA Metal Coatings © Toby Emery

THE ARTS

59 ARTS INTRO Dutch paintings visit Bath from the

comfort of their National Trust country houses

60 WHAT’S ON Time to update the events diary 68 THE BIG INTERVIEW Meet Michael Eavis, the

man (and farmer) behind Glastonbury Festival

77 BOOKS Say ‘I do’... Nic Bottomley’s modern

literature picks explore what marriage is all about

FOOD&DRINK

© DAVID VENNI

38 AL FRESCO Soak up some rays as you dine – we

bring you our guide to the city’s top outdoor eateries

82 RESTAURANT Try before you buy at Le Vignoble,

with wine vending machines and a grazing menu

91 TRY 5 Deep pan, crisp and even... we pick out the

60

68

Bath-based pizzerias who are firing the best flavours

92 FOOD & DRINK NEWS Afternoon tea with a tennis

twist; Champagne+Fromage bistro coming soon; feel privileged at Lucknam Park

SHOPPING

95 INTRO Light up your life with a vintage lantern 96 EDITOR’S CHOICE Indie traders showcase a few

© GR ANT POLL ARD

of their current favourite (shop window) buys

82 91

© DERRYN VR ANCH

© SIMON LEES

38

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 7

Issue 368/ 22 June – 6 July 2018

LIFESTYLE

29 INSIDE STORY After renovating a crumbling living

space, Philippa May gets ready to do it all again...

162 LIVES First-time author Mary Monro digs up the

ancestral insights that inspired her new book

BUSINESS

103 BUSINESS INSIDER Who’s moving, shaking,

inventing and innovating this issue?

PROPERTY

120 RESIDENCE A light, Lansdown home – expect

Georgian proportions, but modern everything else

128 RESTORATION Renovate, innovate, repaint... big

and small ways to restore a home’s value and glory

148 SHOWCASE Live between town and country in

Warberry Lodge, an Italianate Victorian townhouse

© CHRIS AUKL AND

DEPARTMENTS

120

© POLLY TOOTAL

29

11 SPOTLIGHT 16 SOCIETY 27 A MAN’S WORLD

128

Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Editor Lauren Scott lauren.Scott@mediaclash.co.uk Managing Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior Art Editor Andrew Richmond Graphic Design Megan Allison Cover Design Trevor Gilham Editor’s Photo Bonnie Rose Contributors David Flatman, Philippa May, Matt Bielby and Nic Bottomley Group Advertising Manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Advertising Manager Justine Walker justine.walker@ mediaclash.co.uk Account Manager Annabel North annabel.north@mediaclash.co.uk Sales Executive Polly Jackson polly.jackson@mediaclash.co.uk Production/ 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 Chief Executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@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.

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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 9

SPOTLIGHT Guard of honour

MAYOR MAKING

Connected community

BUILDING BRIDGES The existing listed and picturesque Bathampton canal bridge was originally built for the horse and cart in1805.

Switch to 2018, and over 4,500 vehicles cross it daily. Its blind, narrow, humpback design is making it dangerous for pedestrians to cross the waterway, so a new initiative called the Bathampton Conker Crossing has been set up to find a safer way for walkers, cyclists and school children to cross over the canal to Bathampton Primary School.

There are several suggested plans for improvement.

The most popular is a separate foot and cycle bridge, designed by Bath-based engineers Format Ltd, which would enhance the setting and connect walkers and cyclists with the canal, city, meadows and cycle routes. All the pre-planning options are currently being reviewed, and local residents and businesses are being asked to comment on the proposals, help with fundraising and bring (any gratefully received) unique skills to the project.

Although the volunteer trustees have done a phenomenal job getting the project to pre-planning so far, another £10k needs to be raised to further the cause. The public consultation on plans runs until the 20 July. After that, feedback from the public, B&NES and the Canal & River Trust will inform the design that will be put forward as a full planning application in the early autumn.

For more: www.bathamptonconkercrossing.com

Ian Gilchrist. The city was also graced by 12 visiting mayors from the surrounding areas.

The new Mayor of Bath’s focus for the year ahead is environmental.

“Nobody can be unaware of what is going on in the natural world,” he says. “I will take every opportunity to support local initiatives in environmental projects, events and education programmes.”

On the day, councillor Dr Anthony Clarke also replaced Rob Appleyard as deputy mayor. “I am honoured to serve the residents of this great city and look forward to supporting the mayor in his role.”

For more: www.mayorofbath.co.uk

© PAUL GILLIS

Connecting walkers and cyclists with the canal, city and beyond

Every year, we’re excited to welcome a new mayor of the city. That time has come around again, and on 2 June the 791st annual mayor-making ceremony took place at Bath Abbey – councillor Patrick AnketellJones was formally appointed to take on the historic role.

Crowds of passers-by stopped to watch a marching band perform outside the Guildhall and the Avon Fire and Rescue drill squad’s guard of honour on the steps. The civic procession made its dramatic way to Bath Abbey, along with a city sword-bearer, two mace-bearers, and retiring mayor, councillor

A new mayor (red) and deputy (purple) in the procession

The Trust (and community) cut into 25 years

Green space

PALLADIAN PARADISE

Prior Park is a calm, tranquil oasis, hidden away from the busyness of the city, but it was a bramble-filled valley when the National Trust acquired it in 1993. Today, the Trust is celebrating 25 years of caring for this gem of a garden, which welcomes around 50,000 visitors each year, but they’re also planning and fundraising for the next step in its restoration journey – a large-scale project around the Georgian dams.

The National Trust have aimed to restore the garden to how it would have looked in creator Ralph Allen’s time (the mid-1700s) with the help and hard work of the local community. Three volunteers Frank Wagstaff, Derek Prosser, and Rodney Andrews – who were part of the early exploratory teams – are still at Prior Park to this day, having clocked up over 20,000 hours of gardening between them.

In the last quarter of a century, trees have been felled to restore historic views, and trees have also been planted to reinstate features shown on historic illustrations of the garden. This site is now one of exploration; with places to sit, views to enjoy and spaces to discover.

For more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 11

SPOTLIGHT

This year’s runners can enjoy double the bubbles

Art trail

We’ve been so excited to start spotting Minverva’s Owls of Bath as they appear around the city. If you’ve missed what the Owls of Bath is all about, it’s the latest public art sculpture trail from the team that brought us the Lions of Bath (2010) and King Bladud’s Pigs (2008).

A launch was held just days ago to unveil this year’s 85 individually decorated owl and owlet sculptures, which will swoop into the city and beyond for a colourful summer from 25 June – 10 September. This public art event celebrates Bath’s Roman heritage and also raises funds for local charities (each owl sculpture has been sponsored and will be auctioned at the end of the display).

Schoolchildren, students, charities and some of the best artists in the region and beyond – including wildlife TV presenter Chris Packham and Horrible Histories illustrator Martin Brown – have decorated Minerva’s uplifting owls.

So, whooo’s ready to go owl watching?

Trail maps will be available from outlets across Bath from 25 June, which is also when the free Owls of Bath interactive app will go live (and the Owls will land).

For more: www.minervasowls.org

© COLIN R AYNER

OWL BE SEEING YOU

Charity event

FOAM FROLICS

The countdown to Dorothy House’s 2018 Bubble Rush has started. It’s a 5k fun run with foam frolics, which brings in funds for the local care charity. Last year over 1,600 people took part in this family event to raise an impressive £55,000, and this year (on 14 July) Dorothy House are hoping for even more success, thanks to the new venue of the Royal Bath and West Showground.

Whether you run, walk, skip or dance twice around the 2.5k route, it will be filled with huge clouds of rainbow-coloured foam for double the bubbles. Before the start, a ‘Bubble Village’ will feature entertainment, a warm up routine, and colourful accessories to jazz up your run outfit.

There are no age restrictions, and the childfriendly route is suitable for pushchairs, prams and wheelchairs. It’s not a race, though, and the aim is for everyone to pass the finish line covered in coloured bubbles (and smiling). Early bird places start at £7.50 for children (£20 for adults), which includes a t-shirt and a medal to wear with pride at the end.

For more: www.dottybubblerush.org.uk

Download the Owls of Bath app and catch ‘em all

Community matters

PARKRUN PRESCRIPTION

Bath’s Skyline parkrun is a fantastic showcase of our local community. It’s a free 5k event coordinated every Saturday morning (along with hundreds of others around the UK) by a team of volunteers and is open to walkers and runners of all ages and abilities.

On 7 July, NHS volunteers will be taking over the Claverton Down route as part of the NHS’ 70th year, with staff members taking on the role of marshals, timekeepers and supporters, or completing the scenic route themselves.

Helen Conner, Bath Skyline parkrun director says, “We would love to see as many NHS staff as possible on the day, to walk, run, volunteer or simply receive a well-earned round of applause for the incredible contribution they make. Bath Skyline parkrun is a friendly, welcoming event that provides a perfect opportunity to get out in the fresh air to socialise and be physically active.”

Ilana Langdon is the director of medical education for Royal United Hospitals NHS Foundation (and a keen parkrunner). “I’ve seen the benefits and the welcoming atmosphere for myself,” she says. “I’m delighted we have this opportunity to promote exercise and healthy living for RUH staff and families as part of the NHS70 celebrations.”

For more: www.parkrun.org.uk/bathskyline

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Bath is one of 360 locations signed up to be part of NHS70 parkrun

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

Guests gather for the speeches

James and Kate Small Neil Priscott, Emily McKay, Caroline Mackay and Clare Hammond

Ann Ross, Penny Murphy, Kevin Murphy and Nick Shipp Steve Hawkins and Andrew Taylor

IN THE SUMMER TIME

What better way to celebrate the long-awaited arrival of summer than with a Bath Life summer reception? An evening do was held at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa on 5 June for selected guests and their plus ones to network with Bath’s finest. Welcoming speeches came from Greg Ingham, CEO of MediaClash, and Jonathan Stapleton, general manager of the hotel. The guests were then ready to relax, swish their prettiest summer party frocks and try a delicious canapé or two. We always love seeing Bath’s best, dressed to impress, but it’s even better when the weather agrees. The evening was fine (as was the wine), and sunshine prevailed until it was time to (reluctantly) call it a night. Until next year…

Continued over the page.

Photos by Somethingblue photography

Neal Slateford, Natalie Betts and Emma Hogan

www.somethingbluephotography.co.uk

Jack King, Emily Corbett and Jonathan Jones

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

Ann-Marie James, Amanda Cherry, Richard Cherry and Peter James

SOCIETY

Amanda Brown, Nickie Portman and Simon Brown

Charlotte Gray

Trish Fairbeard, Lisa Howells and Susan Harrison

Katie, Wendy and Robert Vander Woerd and Greg Ingham Jonathan Stapleton

Greg Harris, Julian Drew and Scott Gurd Christa Taylor, Ian Taylor and Charlie Salter

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

Joe Grimes Dave Dixon, Annabel North and Jennifer Harper

SOCIETY

Alison Davis, Fiona Daymond and John Law

Wera Hobhouse and David Newton

Cosmo Fry

QUITE THE CHARACTER

Over 60 local business minds met for another inspiring Bath Life Business Club on 4 June – this time to hear tales from the bold entrepreneur Cosmo Fry. The usual round of mingling led to a delicious summer-fresh two-course lunch at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. Guest speaker Cosmo shared insights from his own time in the hotel business, selling a board game concept without a board, partnering with friends, and being the savior of The Theatre Royal Bath (for more, turn to page 113). The next business lunch will feature general manager of The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa himself, Jonathan Stapleton, on 18 July.

Helen Rich and Tim O'Sullivan

Photos by Chris Wakefield

Anthony Jane and Kieran Dewsnap

www.crescent-photography.com

Minds meet for a meal in The Dower House Restaurant

Phillippa Watson and Polly Jackson

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Tom Davie, Laura Noel, Lee Newman and Emily Eccles

Tracy Chapman

Annette Brune, Ashley Green and Hannah Lee

SOCIETY

Elspeth Faulkner, Margaret Cooke, Stephen Lisk and Jeremy Trathen Rebecca Furse Mason

Kayleigh Blight and Chris Buckley

Steve Robinson

GREEN AND PLEASANT

Bath-based DKA architects marked their 25th anniversary with a jolly-good-fun garden summer party, raising a glass to the last quarter of a century and toasting the next.

The Holburne Museum in Sydney Pleasure Gardens was the perfect backdrop to the themed event, and DKA welcomed staff, clients, friends and supporters to celebrate their journey. Guests partied the evening away with Garden of Eden cocktails, made with Bath Gin, a firepit BBQ, and lawn games including croquet, giant Jenga and a coconut shy.

After speeches from directors David Kent, James Bastable, Alex Bell and Fabien Coupat came the cutting of a giant numeral cake in the signature DKA maroon and blue, designed by Sandra Monger cakes.

Photos by Nick Cole www.nickcolephotography.co.uk

Ben and Lisa Wu-Holmes Jo Robertson, Hanah Humphrey, Jill Murphy and Kate Snedden

Alex Bell, Fabien Coupat, David Kent and James Bastable The DKA Team

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

Paul Barber and Mark Rogers

SOCIETY

Zoe Hancock and Amy Coulthard Cleo Newcome-Jones and Paul Myers

Dr. Nick Priest

WILD PARTY

Helen Taylor and Rachel Kent Selena Gray and Councillor Bob Goodman

Nature lovers were recently dazzled by a vibrant VIP launch of this year’s Festival of Nature weekend. Held at Victoria Art Gallery, the gathering celebrated 15 years of engaging people with our local flora and fauna, and brought together wildlife workers and festival partners across the region, including Avon Wildlife Trust, University of Bath and the BBC. There was a chance to get excited about the 2018 programme of public events, to network with senior professionals from across the South West, and to get a buzz from hearing the first plans for a pollinator strategy that will benefit the local area.

ALL YOU CAN SUITE

Glamorous new hair and nail salon The Suite has made its way to Bath, on Gay Street, and a launch party was held to officially celebrate its opening. Owners are twins Martha and Mathilde Heather, who have joined forces to beautify the city together. On the night, local singer-songwriter Hannah Symons performed a musical medley, while the guests took in refreshments and the stylish new home of the pamper parlour. For more, see page 108.

Photos by Bonnie Rose www.bonnierose.co.uk

Laura Arscott, Jade Newman, Alexandra Tulloch, Katie Fishlock and Chantelle Hibbert

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

Emma-Jane Lapper and Jo Dunwell Martha and Mathilde Heather

Ben Taylor, Nikki Heather, Jane Heather and Tess Taylor Gilly Johnson and Jo McLellan

BATH’S AWARD-WINNING BUILDER – CELEBRATING 25 YEARS Renovation • New Homes • Specialist Works • Restoration

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A MAN’S WORLD DAVID FLATMAN

Hop to it Flats will be the first to admit it… he internet-shops. But, because he wants all the indies to survive, he’s vowed to support local businesses more

M

“Assuming Bath will always attract money seems unreliable”

y dear old parents came to visit last weekend, and it was predictably pleasant. I mean, how can a familial weekend in a sunny Bath not be idyllic? Admittedly, it was absolutely heaving and, because I can only fit two people (illegally) on my miraculous electric bike, we had to take the car into town – Dad is too old to walk up that hill.

Also, I am too lazy and know that, at anything above four degrees centigrade, I’ll resemble a failed desert marathon runner by the time I get home. Parking Dad’s SUV was quite the process, what with there being six million people after the same spot, but we got there and plunged into the mêlée.

It was as we wandered up and around the various shopping streets – and as Dad and I began to fatigue with alarming rapidity – that I began to realise that it was pretty much all new to me. Mum would ask me where this shop was, or that, and I repeatedly had no idea. In the end, we were laughing at my lack of local knowledge. In my defense, Mum was primarily asking about women’s clothes stores and trinkety interiors places.

But my ignorance did reveal a personal separation from the world of high street shopping that I hadn’t perhaps realised existed.

Last week, for instance, I bought three books for three separate friends. I bought myself a t-shirt with a jokey message on the front (‘Strong and Pretty’) as the children found it funny. I bought some steaks and some chicken wings. I bought some trainers. I bought some swanky coffee. I bought an extension lead. And all of this – every item – I bought online. I did buy a sandwich from Intermezzo, but that was the extent of my financial

support of the local economy.

Mum mused, as we meandered lazily, as to how long Milsom Street might survive as a shopping venue.

Of course, there are some lovely shops around the place – Portman and Gieves among them – but they do presumably need people to go in if they are to justify what I’m told are particularly aggressive rental rates in the centre of town.

The obvious solution is to commit to putting the smartphone away and enjoying some proper shopping, in actual shops, as complacently assuming that Bath will always attract the money seems unreliable. That is, if we truly want our high streets to survive. But do we? I’m not so sure.

I, for one, am very much up for supporting local businesses more and more, but I’m also quite busy and love the convenience of perfunctory tasks taking up less of my precious time. Robots mow my lawn, said electric bike saves me parking my luxobarge in town, and Amazon sends me extension leads within 24 hours. Unless you physically enjoy shopping – and many of us do not – the internet is just more appealing than a packed city centre.

I am going to start using Bath’s shops more and more, though, mainly as Mum likes the whole scene and would be sad should it disappear, and also because it feels like the right thing to do. Now, does Portman offer an over-the-knee boot in a size 11?

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

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

r o t c a r T e h t t u o g n i Try

Pizza Night!

e g or g e th of w ie v t ea r g A ! t s a f k a e r b y t r A hea

Inside the tent

Our Chickens

Inside the

t r o f y a l p e t i On-s

cabin

WARREN FARM Welcome to Warren Farm, just 45 minutes from the centre of Bath. A working family farm of over 1000 acres, nestled in the heart of the Mendip Hills, Overlooking the World Famous Cheddar Gorge. We have five well appointed canvas lodges and two log cabins.

An ultimate escape from everyday life. Collect fresh eggs from our chickens or spend time with the goats. Life slows down with log burners to cook on and time to spend with loved ones. Ideal for families, groups, get togethers or even weddings.

For more details go to:

www.warrenfarmsomerset.com

WarrenFarmFD

WarrenFarmSomerset

INSIDE STORY PHILIPPA MAY

Philippa’s first shop-stop during her Victorian restoration project was Etons of Bath

THIS OLD THING Last month, you may have spotted my home – a renovated garage – on the front cover of Bath Life, and now I’m taking on a brand new restoration challenge…

W

ell, after constantly describing our house through this column, it finally made the front cover last month, and the response was absolutely incredible. It’s been so lovely to finally show off a very abstract vision of what an old crumbling garage can become, and now we’ve ticked off the dream first renovation, we thought we’d do it all over again. Yep, renovation number two is on the cards, and it’s lovely and very different to the garage… it’s Victorian.

Victorian houses are wonderfully unique, full of character and open to a world of interior design opportunities, so it’s got me very excited. This house, like many in Bath, is in an area that was actually bombed during the war, and so, although originally Victorian, inside, the interiors were all designed in the fifties, meaning there’s a lot of opportunity for modernising it while restoring some of its original features.

Modern interiors can work surprisingly well in Victorian homes as they tend to have wellproportioned rooms and high

“Modern interiors can work surprisingly well in Victorian homes”

ceilings which lend themselves to bold colours, furniture and accessories such as artwork. I’m not quite ready to let go of my favourite Scandi trend inspiration so I’ve been thinking of ways to incorporate Scandinavian-style minimalism with period charm, think lightly washed floorboards (there are some originals hiding under the peach carpets…) with wicker accents and crisp white period coving and ceiling roses.

For me, it’s important to make the décor as bright as possible, but I’m still toying with the idea of a deep, dark dining room for that cosy feel – perfect for entertaining friends on long evenings.

To help me get to grips with decorating a period home with some modern touches, I popped to see the interior gurus at Etons of Bath down on Walcot Street.

Etons specialise in Georgian and classic properties and are the UK’s only specialist Georgian interior design practice, making them the perfect experts to help with a period restoration project (even if it is Victorian). This house has beautiful big bay windows, so my first squeal of excitement came from the idea of finally being able to look at curtains (as the garage’s windows were so oddly placed and shaped we never had curtains). There couldn’t be a better place to look than Etons, with a specialist workshop below their shop full of handmade curtains, blinds and upholstery of all shapes and sizes for period

homes; it means you can have the perfect pieces made for those windows that need the special touch if they aren’t straight or ‘true’ – something very common in Bath. When visiting them, I felt right at home, just how you should, and was amazed by their interior set-up. Charlie, the director, walked me through their mood boards where they try to sift tastes and styles for their clients into four broad categories: warm classic, calm classic, classic contemporary and on-trend contemporary, and straight away I knew I was a classic contemporary kind of woman – a bit of the old and a bit of the new (I’m indecisive like that). Within this ‘mood’, Etons have some beautiful brands to choose from to hit the right vibe, including Whistler Leather – a brand with an imaginative approach that keeps them on trend – that can be used to make bespoke upholstery right here in the city. So my first reward, after all the sanding and painting is finished, is a beautifully soft leather chair, made just for me, to curl up on and admire a job done.

Philippa May is an interiors enthusiast and the designer and head of brand for the Bath-based loungewear label Laze Wear. Follow her on Instagram @_philippamay_ www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 29

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AL FRESCO

OUTDOOR DELIGHTS Bath is full of cafés, bars and restaurants that let you take it outside, so here’s our guide to where some of the top al fresco spots are…

By Lisa Evans

Find tables nestled into corners of the garden at The Methuen Arms

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

AL FRESCO

W

hen the sun’s out, get out. That’s our motto, anyway. Warm weather in Bath is all too fleeting an occurrence, so you need to make the most of it. Using our guide to the city’s top al fresco spots, make a plan for where to soak up some rays while you dine – from riverside terraces to rooftop champagne bars. Only places where the food, drink and the setting are up to scratch have been included. In fact, the only thing we aren’t confident about is the weather.

Rooftops/balconies/ terraces PIPER-HEIDSIECK ROOFTOP CHAMPAGNE BAR

Perched on the Mint Room’s rooftop, the open-air bar has a look akin to a garden; there’s comfortable seating with stylish furnishings, parasols, heat lamps and a cosy atmosphere. It’s ideal for groups of friends post-meal.

View “One has views across the surrounding area,” says co-owner Moe Rahman. “Whether it’s over tree lines, modern apartment blocks, or open scenery, watching the sun go down in the evening is really quite wonderful.”

Menu The small-plate dishes offered on the rooftop are cooked by Mint Room chefs, so the Indian fine dining flavours are familiar. And, of course, the drinks list features champagne, as well as fine wines, and cocktails with hints of spice.

We’re ordering Lime and garlic tiger prawns; clove-smoked tandoori lamb chops; and a spiced masala margarita.

Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath; www.mintroombath.co.uk

THE CLIFTON SAUSAGE

The view is one of the best bits of the setting here. “The paved terrace at the back of the restaurant offers stunning vistas over Bath and the surrounding countryside,” says owner Simon Quarrie. “You can see Sham Castle and watch the cows in the fields while you indulge.”

We’re ordering Sausages, obviously – from options such as beef and Butcombe ale; leek, Caerphilly cheese and cheddar; and lamb, mint and apricot.

5 Bladud Buildings, Bath, www.cliftonsausage.co.uk

THE IVY BATH BRASSERIE

The much-anticipated al fresco terrace, with its secret garden feel and views of St Michael’s spire, opened in March. “The first-floor terrace accommodates up to 52 guests,” says general manager Katja Kammerer. “It features tasteful flowers, greenery, shady umbrellas, and mirrors which reflect the light beautifully on sunny days.

We are lucky to have one of the only rooftop al fresco spaces in Bath; it offers a special location for events and parties.”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 39

© PAOLO FERL A

AL FRESCO

You’ll find the Piper-Heidsieck rooftop champagne bar atop the Mint Room

Menu The outside space is open for food and drinks all day, with guests invited to order from all the menus, including breakfast, à la carte, set menu, afternoon tea and weekend brunch.

We’re ordering the chicken Milanese, blackened cod fillet, or shepherd’s pie.

Milsom Street, Bath; www.theivybathbrasserie.com

GRAZE

Take a seat on the balcony overlooking the commuters below, or shuffle towards the bigger area at the back, on the same level as the westbound platform of Bath’s 19th-century railway station. “People tend to have a bite or a pint to round off a day’s shopping, or before catching the train home,” says general manager Marco Leanza.

Menu Modern British, meaty, hearty fare is served alongside Graze’s unique on-site-brewed Platform 3 – a golden ale made in Graze’s microbrewery in the centre of the restaurant.

We’re ordering the dry-aged steak, cooked in a charcoal oven, with brie and onion potatoes.

Brunel Square, Bath; www.bathales.com

Pavements, passages and patios THE PIG AND FIDDLE

This is a patio area on a main road in the city centre. General manager Alex Gough describes it as “definitely more of a ‘drinks with friends’ place” and pints in the sunshine are the order of the day. “We also tend to get really busy in the evenings, particularly when we have some live music on or an event going on,” he says. “The garden boasts a waterproof HD screen for sports

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

The Ivy Bath Brasserie’s al fresco terrace has a secret garden feel and views of St Michael’s spire

Fabulous Al Fresco Dining in a beautiful setting...

Plenty of garden seating for al fresco dining and drinks with friends or family in our large family garden and our new ‘Tranquility Gardens’ looking over to Downside Abbey..

Our menus change regularly, we use homegrown produce from our kitchen garden and locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. Pretty much everything is made in-house: Breads, Pasta, Ice cream, smoked and cured meats and fish.

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

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

Discover a distinctly continental vibe at the suntrap courtyards of Milsom Place

AL FRESCO events, and we occasionally put on acoustic acts, barbecues and hog roasts when the weather lets us. We have The Pig Chill coming up on 26 August – a bank holiday treat of live music, DJs and a BBQ. Menu It’s all about mac and cheese here. It’s baked in a parmesan, Wookey Hole cheddar and smoked cheddar cheese sauce with a variety of toppings on offer – from frankfurters, crispy onions and meatballs, to spicy chicken, blue cheese or garlic mushrooms. Burgers and pub classics are on offer, too.

Saracen Street, Bath; www.butcombe.com

CLAYTON’S KITCHEN

Fresh flavours in the sunshine at Clayton’s Kitchen

From the elevated front pavement setting, sit and watch the world go by along George Street, or tuck yourself away into the quiet pedestrian street to the side of the restaurant for a little more privacy. Depending what time of day you choose to go, the atmosphere can be intimate or lively. Expect modern British fare.

We’re ordering Roasted scallops with pea purée, toasted hazelnut, charred asparagus and crispy pancetta to start; lamb in a port wine sauce for main; and passion fruit crème brûlée for pudding.

George street, Bath; www.claytonskitchen.com

VINO VINO / THE OVEN

These two businesses – a wine and cocktail bar, and a pizzeria – are next door to each other and complement one and other perfectly. They both have wide pavement terraces at the front, making them good spots for leisurely lunches, after-work and pre-theatre drinks and bites. It’s people watching heaven, too.

Vibe Vino Vino has a sophisticated, relaxed ambiance, and, at The Oven you feel as if you’re on holiday in Italy – the restaurant’s windows fold back completely, so you can watch the balletic dough performances in the open kitchen.

We’re ordering Mediterranean-inspired small plates at Vino Vino, such as prawns baked with tomatoes, feta and fresh herbs; and, from The Oven’s authentic wood-fired Neapolitan pizza menu, our choice is the one topped with cotto ham, nduja, creamed walnut, fig jam and basil.

Saw Close, Bath; www.vinovinowinebar.co.uk and www.theovenpizzeria.co.uk

SOCIETY CAFÉ

Vino Vino’s pavement terrace has a sophisticated and relaxed ambiance

There are two Society Café’s in Bath, each with a gratifying al fresco aspect. At the Kingsmead Square-based spot, your view will be the immense London Plane Tree, plus the wide expanse of the square itself – a great place to congregate and smugly watch busy people hurry by as you unwind. And on the High Street, you’ll find several little tables in The Corridor, where you can escape the city heat and bask in the gentle breeze that blows through. Both offer vantage points to judge passers by. “Come and park your bike, buggy or dog,” says owner Adrian Campbell-Howard. “Come with your friends, maybe make some new ones or come alone for some solitude.”

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

AL FRESCO Menu Wash down scrumptious cakes and fresh sarnies, with speciality coffees, hot chocolate made from chunks of the real thing, loose-leaf teas or cool summer options such iced lattes and smoothies.

Kingsmead Square, and High Street, Bath; www.society-cafe.com

Waterside THE BATHWICK BOATMAN

THE LOCKSBROOK INN

Here you’ll discover a large canal-side, sundrenched courtyard complete with an outside bar. Recline on a garden sofa or perch on a picnic bench and watch the rivercraft float gently by and walkers and cyclists come and go along the towpath. Oh, and there’s live music in the garden on sunny weekends.

Menu It’s classic gastropub dining, featuring small plates and hearty portions. Our choice is the mussels in Thai green sauce, or the garlic and honey spatchcock chicken.

Locksbrook Road, Bath; www.thelocksbrookinn.com

Sink into a garden sofa at the canal-side Locksbrook Inn

© SIMON LEES

This large, fairy light- and lantern-lit terrace on stilts overlooks the river and is covered with a timber roof – so there’s no need to worry about summer rain. From the terrace, you’ll find steps leading down to the river and the historic Bath Boating Station’s gardens.

Vibe It’s a tranquil, romantic place for couples (especially as it’s candlelit with freshly cut roses on the tables), but it also draws in convivial crowds.

View Lush green trees on the riverbanks, and water that gently ripples with the paddling of oars. “You can’t see another building from here (apart from the Boating Station),” says co-owner Rosie Hall. “You wouldn’t know you were in the centre of Bath directly opposite Morrisons!”

We’re ordering Sunday lunch with all the trimmings, or belly pork with chorizo mash, charred pear and kale crisps. There’s also a Sunday night Lebanese supper club every month.

Forester Road, Bath; www.bathwickboatman.com

Courtyards and covered spots MILSOM PLACE

At the suntrap courtyards, discover a distinctly continental vibe. The feast of flavours to indulge in includes Italian at Carluccio’s; French specialities at Côte Brasserie; and an edgy atmosphere at CAU, direct from Buenos Aires.

What we’re ordering Whole grilled lobster at Côte; risotto al fungi at Carluccio’s; and spicy beef empanadas at CAU. Milsom Street, Bath; www.milsomplace.co.uk

BATH PIZZA CO. BY GREEN PARK BRASSERIE Although the al fresco dining area is technically outside, it’s still fully covered by the Victorian glass canopy of what was once Bath Green Park

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

The Bathwick Boatman’s lantern-lit terrace sits high on stilts, overlooking the river

AL FRESCO

railway station. “The iron girder structure and glass canopy was restored in the 80s after the last passenger train left in 1966, and our al fresco space is a terrace area under this magnificent structure,” says director Alex Peters. “The front Brasserie terrace can seat another 80. For bigger events, we can welcome up to a thousand guests.”

Vibe The live music nights create great atmosphere, and with the beer, the pizza oven blazing away, and huge, handmade oak benches and tables, Alex feels the al fresco hub offers an almost Oktoberfest feel. There are plenty of events coming up there, too, including Bath Folk Festival in August, and they’re currently planning a large-scale Pizza & Prosecco fest.

We’re ordering The £10 ‘pizza and pint or glass of prosecco’ deal.

Green Park Station, Bath; www.bathpizzaco.com

Gardens HARE & HOUNDS

H&H’s outdoor area consists of two parts: the raised sun terrace, and the picnic benches on the lawn. The former has table service and views overlooking the rolling green of the Charlcombe valley, and the lower area is ideal for overseeing the children’s play area and boules court while also taking in the Solsbury Hill vistas.

Menu It’s modern and British in style, offering bar bites and pub classics such as burgers, and fish and chips. Our choice is the pearl barley risotto with goats’ curd, walnuts, asparagus and peas.

Lansdown Road, Bath; www.hareandhoundsbath.com

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa’s manicured acre of secluded gardens make for a charming dining-in-the-sun spot

THE QUARRYMANS ARMS

After a country walk with the dog, take a seat either at the front of this quaint ivy-covered pub or in the tiered beer garden at the back. The countryside view is Instagrammable, and the spot offers a great escape from the bustling city centre.

We’re ordering Stilton and asparagus pancake to start, and steak and ale pie for main.

Box Hill, Corsham; www.butcombe.com

THE METHUEN ARMS

There are plenty of options for dining outside here: there’s a courtyard at the back, sprinkled with fairy lights and surrounded by old coach houses; the restaurant opens out onto a patio; and there are romantic ‘secret’ tables nestled into corners of the garden, which overlooks the new chef ’s garden. “A refurbishment means that all our al fresco areas have had recent uplifts,” says general manager Ash Harlow. “Think wicker furniture, cream cushions and parasols, beautiful green shrubs and flowers.”

Menu It’s full of dishes which champion the best of Wiltshire’s larder (and their own back garden). Our order is the stone bass with crab cake, tempura prawns and crab bisque.

High Street, Corsham; www.themethuenarms.com

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

The countryside setting at The Quarrymans Arms offers a great escape from the bustling city centre

The atmospheric and canopycovered Bath Pizza Co is a buzzy place for groups of friends

al fresco

The rolling green vistas from Hare & Hounds are some of the best in Bath

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

THE GEORGE

Their terrace and mature garden areas, which seat 50, are discreet, enclosed and south facing.

“We are one of only three dining pubs in Bradford on Avon with an outside area,” says owner Alison Ward-Baptiste. “It’s very pretty and secluded, and there’s live music during the summer. Our garden is magnificent; it’s full of flower borders and cosy benches, and there’s an attractive summer house to escape into.”

Menu It changes daily, offering fresh seafood from the South West, and the local meat is smoked to perfection in-house.

What’s on Every Friday in July, there’s a BBQ and live music in the garden, and you can catch the supper club evenings on the last Thursday of every month.

Woolley Street, Bradford on Avon; www.thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk

THE PACKHORSE

The recently reopened community-owned pub, which was lovingly refurbished by a thousand hands, has seating in a sheltered terrace garden at the back. “It’s friendly and relaxed, and it’s a favourite among walkers and cyclists,” says general manager James Dixon. “It’s a great spot which is set in the country, yet it’s just a skip away from the city. The outside space is a well-maintained country garden with exquisite borders, planted in four dimensions. Keep an eye out for live music throughout the summer.”

Menu The hake comes highly recommended along with the 1618 bitter, which was brewed especially for The Packhorse to commemorate its 400th anniversary this year. But we’re also tempted by the blue cheese arancini with purple sprouting broccoli and chargrilled courgette.

Old School Hill, South Stoke, Bath; www.packhorsebath.co.uk

Fair-weather pints are the order of the day at The Pig and Fiddle

CORKAGE CHAPEL ROW

In the south-facing, sun-all-day garden, you’ll find a raised deck – covered by a large umbrella – and a lower walled courtyard. “It’s beautifully lit and filled with aromas of lavender, jasmine and herbs,” says co-owner Richard Knighting.

“We’ve just finished a refurb of the garden and brought in some amazing wines to enjoy with summery small plates which have diverse flavours and styles.”

Vibe “It’s a chilled space where you can come as a couple or a group to eat, drink and relax in an urban spot,” says Richard. “It’s at its busiest any time the sun is out – from lazy lunches to early evening or post-work drinks – and we always have a crowd in looking to kick off the weekend.”

What’s on Corkage is hosting a Lebanese wine

OUTDOOR FAVES Of course, they love their own al fresco spots best, but what other outdoor dining areas do Bath’s restaurant, café and bar owners recommend?

“Henry’s has the sweetest little terrace with a few tables, and its bliss to sit out there with incredible food and a chilled bottle of rosé.”

Adrian Campbell-Howard at Society Café

“We like to have a drink at The Inn at Freshford and then walk our dog to their sister pub – Cross Guns Avoncliff – for something to eat.”

Rosy Hall at The Bathwick Boatman “Combe Grove hotel has breathtaking views, and there are delicious salads at lunchtime.”

Jane Shayegan at The Oven “The Wheatsheaf has an awesome outside space, and we’re partial to a couple of pints over on Hall & Woodhouse’s roof.”

Alex Peters at Bath Pizza Co

“The New Inn has a secret beer garden.”

Richard Knighting at Corkage Chapel Row “My go-tos are Rustico Bistro Italiano, and Franco Manca.”

Marco Leanza at Graze Bath “I like the courtyard at Sub 13, and Bathampton Mill has a great spot by the river.”

Florence Bowditch at Hare & Hounds “We adore Adventure Cafe.”

Mark Mentzel at Pintxo

tasting with Massaya on 3 July.

Chapel Row, Bath; www.corkagebath.com

THE ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL & SPA

The hotel benefits from a spectacularly manicured acre of secluded gardens which can comfortably seat 80 people in the main garden.

A further 12 people can be seated in The Spa Garden, and up to 30 for private dining in the walled/wedding garden. Lavender walks sweep through the grounds, there’s a clever use of wild flowers, and, if you’re lucky, you’ll see a hot air balloon floating by overhead.

When “Afternoon tea definitely gives the gardens their buzzy atmosphere in the summer months,” says Anthony Rizzo, restaurant manager at RCH’s The Dower House.

“However, our after-work al fresco sharing menu is extending the busy period as it’s served until 8pm.”

Menu The mix of dishes includes mini fish and chips, and crispy duck leg with peanuts, pickled ginger and coriander. As for what to drink, we recommend a gin (Sipsmith Gin is a RCH brand partner) from the creative menu consisting of some gin and tea infusions and the opportunity to craft your own bespoke G&T. Royal Crescent, Bath; www.royalcrescent.co.uk

PINTXO DE BATH

You’ll find the enclosed Sherry Garden to the rear of Pintxo, hidden away from the main road. There’s a Mediterranean feel, rainbow blooms all around and it is, according to director Mark Mentzel, best for couples or groups of friends wanting to drink sherry and wine and tuck into small plates.

Menu From the tapas dishes, inspired by San Sebastian but from all over Spain, our choices are: meatballs in spicy tomato sauce, and dates with goats’ cheese and crispy ham.

Barton Street, Bath; www.pintxobath.co.uk

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

Wonderful food and wine list at excellent value.

Taking bookings for corporate and private events woodsinbath@gmail.com

01225 314812

9 -13 Alfred Street, Bath, BA1 2QX | www.woodsrestaurant.com

Stuart Ash – 25 years Head Chef

Joe Pothecary – 18 years Sous Chef

THURSDAY SUPPER CLUB The last Thursday of the month. 4 courses | £25

Bar • Kitchen Dining

ALL THINGS SUMMER Thursday 26th July Ceviche of trout, sweet cabbage and pepper Kimchi, bread and butter pickle.

Baked Camembert, Chorizo and salsa verde. Rosemary foccacia.

Bouillabaisse of Southwest fish, garlic aioli, pepper rouille, croutes and Gruyere.

Open da il from 9:3 y 0am for break fast, coffee an d homema de cakes.

Summer pudding terrine, creme chantilly.

ALL THINGS FRENCH Thursday 30th August | A homage to French Cooking and Classical Chef Elizabeth David Classic French Onion soup with a Gruyere glaze.

Terrine of chicken and ham, with pickled vegetables and tarragon mayonnaise.

Elizabeth David’s Salmon in pastry with currants and ginger, sauce Messine.

Creme aux Fraises, a rich strawberry cream.

Set lunch Monday to Friday | 2 courses £15.95 - 3 courses £17.95

TO BOOK CALL

01225 865650

67 Woolley St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1AQ • info@thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk • thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk

Welcome to No. 10 Tea Gardens A PICTURE SQUE TEA ROOM I N TH E B EA U T I F U L H A M L E T O F AVO N C L I F F, O N T H E O U T S KI RT S O F T HE C O T S WO LDS .

All cakes, scones and treats are freshly made on the premises.

We are environmentally friendly using biodegradable packaging.

We strive to support British businesses and are supplied by Tregothnan Teas, Dusty Ape coffee, Ivy House Farm Dairy, Bradley’s Juice, New MacDonalds Farm and Marshfield Ice Cream.

Overlooking the famous Avoncliff Aqueduct and on Route 4 of the National Cycle Network.

Situated just a 25 minute stroll along the stunning Kennet and Avon Canal from Bradford on Avon

O PEN IN G T IM E S : F R I DAY S 1 0 :00 - 17: 00. SATUR D AY, SUND AY & BANK H O LI D AYS 09 :0 0 - 1 8 :0 0 .

Av onc l i ff, Bra d f o rd o n Av o n , B A 1 5 2 H D • 07725853361 • a v oncliff tea @ hotma il. com • www.avonc lifft ea.c om

The Greenhouse Restaurant at Wadswick Green is a stylish and relaxed all day dining destination.

Located in an elegant and modern setting, with beautiful views across the Wiltshire countryside.

Meet friends and unwind after work, enjoy a leisurely breakfast or meet the family for a Sunday roast. The perfect place for any occasion.

Take a look at what’s on offer at The Greenhouse

All Day Tuesday 10% off Food and Drinks* *to claim bring a copy of this advert

2 for 1 Pizza

Available all day Friday noon - 9pm

60 wines by the glass, over 140 by the bottle lunch & pre theatre menus wine tastings & food events

BREAKFAST MENU 7 days a week 9:30am - 11am

wine shop - free local delivery - please call for more information

ROASTS

Sunday Roast 12 - 3pm

5 Chapel Row, Bath, BA1 1HN

132A Walcot St, Bath, BA1 5BG

chapelrow@corkagebath.com

walcot@corkagebath.com

01225 423417

01225 422577

open for lunch – weds - sat

open for lunch – fri - sat

open for dinner – mon - sat

open for dinner – weds - sat

kitchen open from 5.30

Check out our website for forthcoming events “if i lived in bath i’d be here a lot” - jay rayner

bath life restaurant of the year winner 2017 sunday times top 25 wine bars good food guide 2017/18

The Greenhouse Restaurant is open Mon-Sat from 9am-11pm and Sun 9am-4pm.

You can reserve a table at any time by calling us on 01225 585880 or book online at www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk THE GREENHOUSE RESTAURANT, THE PAVILION, WADSWICK GREEN, CORSHAM SN13 9RD WWW.WADSWICKGREEN.CO.UK

Beautiful, relaxed riverside dining...

Serving lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday, and Sunday lunch Beautiful food  Carefully selected wine list  Boating available Private customer car park  Pretty, covered terrace overlooking the river

High quality • Bespoke • Built to order Features include: Belfast sinks, cast iron exterior lights, Farrow and Ball painted panelling, fold away table and chairs, built in storage space, plug in cooking hobs and TV points, LPG gas boiler, fully functioning bathroom with walk-in shower.

Please contact Ben & Rosy with any enquiries: tel 01225 428844 email ben@bathwickboatman.com | www.bathwickboatman.com The Bathwick Boatman | Forester Rd | Bath | BA2 6QE only 5 mins stroll from the Holburne Museum

Avon Farm, Avon Lane, Saltford, Bristol, BS31 3ET T: 07983 439782 / 07967 442267 E: info@greendown-shepherd-huts.co.uk

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Dinner Bed & Breakfast from £145 for two Contact us for more information Top Lane, Whitley, Wiltshire SN12 8QX T f @peartreewhitley 01225 704966

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Open on the ground floor from 9am everyday until late.

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sumptuous brunches, fantastic coffee brunches, fantastic throughout the week and excellent food. in a unique & funky coffee and

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Great Cocktails, Timeless Music Hits, Friendly & Warm Service.

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HAPPY HOUR | Monday - Friday: 5-7pm AFTERNOON TEA | Monday - Saturday: 3-5pm

HALF PRICE on selected cocktails, spirits and wines.

Variety of teas, scones & cakes, dainty sandwiches and champagne.

LADIES NIGHT | Every Thursday: 7pm onwards Half price Prosecco & selected Cocktails.

80s & (JAZZ, 90s music SUNDAY ROAST WITH A TRIO OF LIVE MUSIC BLUES AND MORE)

Enjoy half price wine by the glass or a draft beer with your roast.

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

Prized Possessions will be displayed at The Holburne Museum until 16 September.

For more: www.holburne.org

DUTCH MASTERS The National Trust has a wealth of glorious properties in and around Bath, and each one cares for a significant collection of art within its walls. Fortunately for locals, a new exhibition Prized Possessions brings many of these works out of their fine country homes, so that they can be viewed together, in one place, in all their splendour.

Paintings by some of the finest Dutch artists of the 17th century, known as the ‘Golden Age,’ have been collected from National Trust collections around the country, and now appear together for the first time at The Holburne Museum. The 22 works on show come from artists such as Rembrandt and Peter Lely.

The exhibition celebrates the enduring British taste for collecting Dutch paintings, and explores why this style of art was desired, commissioned, displayed, treasured – and possessed – by country house owners. Highlights include A Still Life of Flowers and Fruit (pictured) by Cornelis de Heem, which has been borrowed from nearby mansion Dyrham Park.

Amina Wright is senior curator at The Holburne, and is understandably delighted to be bringing this collaborative curation to the city. “The display in the museum’s purpose-built exhibition gallery will allow the paintings to be seen at their very best and in a new and inspiring context. Sir William Holburne’s eclectic collection of Dutch paintings is one of the jewels of the museum founded in his name, and he would have been proud to see such an outstanding group of works alongside his own.”

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

WHAT’S ON

© LUCY BAKER

23 June - 22 July

Explore the colourful traditions and fascinating cultures of three distinct styles at this year's Bath Carnival

EXHIBITIONS

and Sonia Delaunay. Adam Gallery; www.adamgallery.com

BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL Contemporary artist Diane Taylor displays her latest works. Diane studied sculpture at Bath College, and uses acrylics and oils to create abstract paintings with a mix of bold and muted colours. Expect inspiration from nature and the great masters. 44ad artspace; www.44ad.net

Until 30 June

Until 24 June

Until 29 June

MODERN MASTER PRINTS A fantastic show by some influential 20th-century artists, including Joan Miro and Henry Moore. The monochromatic works of Spanish artist Eduardo Chillida will be a stark contrast against the bright and colourful abstracts of Bridget Riley

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

and employs a confident use of line that's reminiscent of the Cubist movement. Axle Arts; www.axlearts.com

WALTER LINDNER A retrospective showing of 35 paintings and monotype prints of the enigmatic, late Berlin artist.

Over four decades, Lindner created graphic, embellished pieces using oils and inks. This exhibition includes the very best of his original monotype artworks. David Simon Contemporary; www.davidsimoncontemporary.com

Until 31 June

Until 31 June

Until 2 August

CORINNA BUTTON The renowned painter-printmaker explores themes of feminine identity, using an application of textures.

Corinna creates female portraits with layers of paint and mixed media

MICK MORGAN A show of large figurative vessels between four to five foot in height.

Each design resembles an abstract female torso with a slender elongated neck. Simple in colour with natural earthy textures and tones, their surfaces are akin to a well-rounded pebble. Axle Arts; www.axlearts.com RPS INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION Winning and shortlisted images on show from the Royal Photography Society’s 160th annual photography competition. A whole variety of

genres will be covered, with cuttingedge prints being shown alongside traditional work – from the artistic to documentary, and portraiture to natural history. Art at the Heart of the RUH, Central Gallery; www.axlearts.com

Until 31 August

SUMMER EXHIBITION An annual showcase of works from Rostra Gallery’s most talented artists, including Helen Burgess, Clare Halifax and Glynn Macey.

The exhibition includes limitededition prints, original paintings, sculpture, ceramics, papercut and jewellery – to suit all budgets, Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk

Until 2 September

A CELEBRATION OF FLOWERS Fabric designer Kaffe Fassett returns

WHAT’S ON

to Bath with a vibrant exhibition inspired by his love of flowers. With a bespoke and dazzling colour scheme, his installation will transform the gallery using 40 vibrant coloured quilts and needlepoints. Expect large-scale works, which extend the floral theme into three dimensions.

Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal. org.uk

Until 16 September

ABOVE, Prized Possessions at The Holburne LEFT, Mick Morgan's ceramic vessels on display with Axle Arts and at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa BELOW, Smoked & Uncut festival held at The Pig, near Bath

PRIZED POSSESSIONS Dutch 17th-century paintings by some of the finest masters of the ‘Golden Age’ (from National Trust collections around the country) are displayed together for the first time. The collection includes a recently rediscovered self-portrait of Rembrandt, along with local gems from Dyrham Park. £9/£10; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org For more, see previous page.

Until 28 October

SIDE BY SIDE: AMERICA AND WORLD WAR I 2018 marks the 100th anniversary of America’s first major military engagement in the Great War 1914 – 1918, with this exhibition uncovering the relationship between the US and Europe, as well as reflecting on those who went into battle, and those who stayed at home. Various prices; The American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org

Until 28 October

THE BECKFORD WOMEN An exhibition exploring the lives, loves and losses of the women who influenced – and were influenced by – William Beckford.Various times and prices; Beckford’s Tower; www.beckfordstower.org.uk

Until 12 November

A QUEST FOR WELLNESS Beijing-based artist Zhang Yanzi takes a look at healing and wellbeing from the Chinese tradition, with large-scale installations, paintings and more. It should appeal to those with a curiosity about the human body, the human condition, medicine and healing.

The Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk

Until 1 January 2019

THE WONDER WOMEN OF SPACE A free exhibition celebrating the wonder women who are changing the way we see the world and beyond. The museum talks to

leading female astrophysicists, astronomers and engineers to find out what inspires them.

Herschel Museum of Astronomy; wwwherschelmuseum.org.uk

20 July – 24 August

THE FANTASTICAL MULTIMEDIA POP-UP This project presents three zones to experience artistic, scientific, fun, thought-provoking and interactive encounters. Step into the digital laboratory, find out how we’ll be using 3D printers in the future, become a character in a video game and be part of a live gaming experiment. Andrew Brownsword Gallery, The Edge; www.edgearts.org

PLAYS/SHOWS Until 7 July

DUSTY A new musical, premiering in Bath, which charts the life of one of Britain’s most successful and enduringly popular singers.

The script comes from BAFTAnominated writer Jonathan Harvey, and West End star Katherine Kingsley plays the lead role. A celebration of the extraordinary vivacious women Various times and prices; Main House; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Until 21 July

HENRY V Bristol’s most innovative and highly acclaimed theatre company, Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory, launch their brand-new production. The intimate theatre space will make a thrilling venue in which to experience the drama of the Battle of Agincourt.

Ben Hall stars as Henry V, the king who emerges from his wild youth to wage war on France. Various times and prices; Ustinov Studio; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

3 – 30 July

EDINBURGH FRINGE PREVIEW SEASON Cancel your flights to Scotland because, for the fifth year running, the Edinburgh Fringe (well, a preview version) is coming to Bath.

Catch some of the very finest risingstar Edinburgh Fringe acts before they become household names.

Comedians include Tony Law, Phil Nichol, Bethany Black, Lucy Porter and Angela Barnes. £8; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON

18 July – 4 August

AN IDEAL HUSBAND Edward Fox, Freddie Fox, Susan Hampshire, Nathaniel Parker, Frances Barber and Sally Bretton star in Oscar Wilde’s glittering comedy. Set in London in 1895, this drama about political corruption, blackmail, scandalloving journalists and the pitfalls of holding public figures to higher standards than the rest of us, displays Wilde’s most sparkling wit and sharp humour in a feast for both the ear and the eye. Various times and prices; Main House, Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

MUSIC

Until 4 August

IFORD ARTS An internationally renowned opera and jazz festival held at an intimate venue where captivating opera performances and informal proms are performed in unique spaces.

This year is its 25th anniversary.

Various times and prices; Iford Manor, Iford, Bradford on Avon; www.ifordarts.org.uk

23 June

BAROQUE SUMMER Bath’s Bach choir will be performing two iconic baroque works at this summer concert; the popular Gloria

by Vivaldi and Handel's psalm Dixit Dominus. 7.30pm; £10 – £28; Bath Abbey; www.bathboxoffice.org.uk

24 June

STEVE KILBEY Lead singer and principal songwriter of Australian band The Church (who have sold nearly two million records worldwide) teams up with keyboardist Amanda Kramer. The two have a love of Dylan, Lou Reed, David Bowie and Burt Bacharach, so expect musical performances to match these mutual tastes. 7.30pm; £16; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

26 June

KEIFER SUTHERLAND The actor turned recording artist has been catapulted into the vocal limelight, thanks to his bonafide guitar skills and passionate music.

After releasing his country-rock album Down In A Hole last year, Sutherland embarked on a sold-out European tour. Now he’s back on the road, and ready to rock Bath for the evening. 7pm; £27.50; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

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29 June

MAGIC OF THE BREATH This concert and workshop is in two parts, with the first half performed by students on flute, recorder, saxophone, piano, guitar and voice.

Flutist and tutor Alexandra Bass will then be performing with friends in various combos, followed by a demonstration of circular breathing.

6pm; £12; The New Oriel Hall; atokenichols@gmail.com

30 June

SMOKED & UNCUT A food and music festival where you can get stuck into some serious flavour at food stalls and feasting tents, and lap up the laid-back beats from two main stages. You’ll find a line-up of classic and contemporary artists, homemade festi-food and a glamping village with bell tents.

7pm; £39.50; The Pig, near Bath, Pensford; www.thepighotel.com

5 – 8 July

NASS FESTIVAL The UK’s only action sports and music festival, showcasing a diverse selection of acts across seven stages and international skate and BMX competitions. Line-up highlights include Run DMC and Dizzee Rascal, as well as many local street artists. From£39; Royal Bath & West Showground; www.nassfestival.com

11 July

POP UP OPERA An innovative touring company, which is broadening the appeal of opera and challenging the way it's performed. Sit back and enjoy two delicious one-act comedies in which actresses battle it out to be the prima donna, and a pair of lovers tease and test their feelings for each other.

7pm; £20; The Assembly Rooms; www.bathvenues.co.uk

21 – 22 July

A BOUNDLESS SUMMER Concert-goers are invited to picnic among beautiful, rolling landscapes and enjoy the performances of the legendary Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra on Saturday 21 July, with Katherine Jenkins performing on 22 July. Local bands will also be taking part, chosen from an exciting new competition called Boundless Breaking. Various times and prices; Bowood House, Chippenham; www.boundlesssummer.co.uk

ABOVE, Katherine Jenkins will display her vocals at Bowood House LEFT, Tom Allen will bring laughter to the Frome Festival BELOW, Steve Kilbey will play Komedia

WHAT’S ON FAMILY

28 June – 2 July

FOREST OF IMAGINATION Explore this alternative, playful, multi-sensory experience of nature in the city. There will be plenty of installations for children to enjoy, such as creative workshops, augmented reality and soundscapes. Bushey Norwood; www.forestofimagination.org.uk

1 July

27 June

SUMMER EVENING RACING Add some excitement to your week by enjoying an evening of thrilling racing – with proceeds going to WaterAid. A quintessential British pastime, great food, drink and, of course, exciting racing combine. First race 6pm; £14 – £89; Bath Racecourse; www.bath-racecourse.co.uk

29 June

BIKE BATH An annual bike ride to raise funds for charity. Riders will have the choice of three new routes this year – the 25-mile social, or the 50- or 80-mile challenges. They can also enjoy some of the region’s finest flavours at food stations along the routes. From £26; The Rec; www.bikebath.co.uk

HILL & FRIENDS AT HOME Bath Life readers are invited to an exclusive, private, charity shopping event. Shop the current season of high-fashion bags, and exclusively preview and pre-order future seasons with up to 40 per cent discount.10 per cent of all sales will be donated to Cancer Research.Titan Barrow, Bathford; grace@hillandfriends.com

21 July

30 June and 7 July

BATH CARNIVAL Watch Bath’s streets come to life with the sights and sounds of the carnival – as well as live bands, foodie stalls and interactive workshops. Discover the colourful traditions and fascinating cultures behind three distinct styles; Rio Carnival, The Caribbean Islands and New Orlean’s Mardi Gras. Around the city; www.bathcarnival.co.uk

OTHER

Until 31 August

TORCHLIT SUMMMER EVES The historic Roman Baths are staying open late (until 10pm) during the summer months. Expect the site to take on a magical atmosphere once the daylight fades and the flickering torches are lit. Various times and prices (free to Discovery Card Holders); The Roman Baths; www.romanbaths.co.uk

23 – 24 June

THE HANDMADE FAIR Kirstie Allsopp presents this creative affair. Craft enthusiasts can experience an array of expert talks and hands-on workshops in felting, calligraphy, wirework and Indian block printing, to name a few. £12; Bowood House, Chippenham; www.thehandmadefair.com

25 June – 10 September

MINERVA’S OWLS BATH SCULPTURE TRAIL A public art sculpture trail of 100 owl sculptures and owlets. Each will have a beacon so that followers of the trail can find them and learn about the artists and projects responsible for decorating them. Various locations; www.minervasowls.org

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INDEPENDENCE DAY WEEKEND Time to celebrate the birth of a nation. During part one (30 June), learn about life in 1776, and, during part two (7 July), celebrate the glamour, glitz and razzamataz of the USA. Normal admission.The American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org

6 – 15 July

FROME FESTIVAL Frome’s biggest celebration of the arts for 17 years, with 200 events. An eclectic mix of opera, pop, choral, jazz and folk music, plus theatre, workshops, exhibitions, films, walks and talks. Highlights include Leo Sayer, JLS’s Aston Merrygold, comedian Tom Allen and singer Badly Drawn Boy. Various locations in Frome; www.fromefestival.co.uk

7 July

YOGA TO OVERCOME CHALLENGES Bestselling author and yoga philosopher, Simon Haas, returns for a transformative workshop. Find out how yoga teachings can be used to overcome anxiety and depression.

11.30pm – 3pm; £15; Priston Village Hall; www.simonhaas.com

18 July

EVENING WITH MATT HAIG After years of struggling with anxiety, the bestselling author of Reasons to Stay Alive is back with new book Notes on a Nervous Planet. He looks at how we can feel happy, whole and human and whole in the 21st-century. 8pm; £7 – £12.99; St Swithin's Church; www.toppingbooks.co.uk n

ABOVE, Jools Holland brings his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra to Bowood LEFT, Author Matt Haig talks at St. Swithin's BELOW, Kids' creativity with the Forest of Imagination

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CREDIT: CHRISTINE JUETTE PHOTOGRAPHY

An eye for detail

If you have a soft spot for cattle, you’re in for a treat this month. Bath artist JOANNE COPE presents another lovingly-created collection of paintings and drawings in her new exhibition on Milsom Street oanne Cope has always been drawn to subject matter from the natural world. As a child in New Zealand, she enjoyed an outdoorsy lifestyle. “We had a huge amount of freedom and happily entertained ourselves outdoors.” Her mother had grown up in and around the forests of Waiotapu near Rotorua, and encouraged Joanne and her siblings to explore the woodlands and countryside, taking notice of the animals that inhabited it. They went searching for eels, possums and glowworms while staying on an aunts’ dairy farm. They helped with milking and sheep shearing, and were given the unenviable job of picking ticks out of the wool bales. They also frequented a holiday cottage on another farm during the summer holidays, so she had plenty of exposure

“MY BROTHER AND SISTER AND I WOULD CLIMB OVER FENCES AND INTO FIELDS WITH A HERD OF COWS AND LIE DOWN”

to cattle, sheep, horses, pigs and other animals, which Joanne would draw and paint.

“I had no fear of cattle as a child. My brother and sister and I would climb over fences and into fields with a herd of cows and lie down.

After a few minutes, the cattle would begin to get curious and slowly approach and surround us. We would end up with a dozen wet noses tentatively trying to ‘identify’ us. As soon as we moved, they would spook and back off. I was fascinated by them.”

That fascination has translated into a lucrative career for Joanne. Over a decade ago, she began to dedicate herself to creating detailed and striking portraits of cattle. As in traditional portraiture, she focused mainly on head and shoulder portraits, personifying and idolising her subjects.

In her most recent work, Cope again uses oils, carefully layered and blended in a natural, subdued colour palette. She has intentionally exaggerated contrast and lighting, creating drama and intensity in each composition. These impressive portraits of the ordinary cow are wonderfully engaging and alluring. “When I look at cattle, I interpret their returning gaze as gentle curiosity,” says Cope. She paints the majority of her subjects looking out from the canvas to engage the viewer.

In contrast to the oil paintings, Joanne’s new collection of drawings on archival paper are in black and white, but they still capture the character and depth of her colour pieces.

The exhibition is open for two weeks and Joanne will be on site most days during the show if you would like to ask about her working process and enquire about commissions. ■

Cattle Paintings by Joanne Cope 17 – 29 July 25 Milsom St, Bath, BA1 1DG 07958 703 438 or 01225 322 962 www.joannecope.com MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 67

Michael Eavis in Bath’s Queen Square. You’ll rarely see him without this smile on his face

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

According to popular wisdom, running rock music events – so exciting, so volatile, so laden with distractions – is a surefire way to turn a large fortune into a small one. But no-one, it seems, told Glastonbury Festival creator Michael Eavis, one of the most inspirational figures in showbiz, perhaps precisely because he’s not really in showbiz at all. As he says, “most of the year I’m just a farmer, after all…”

Words by Matt Bielby Portraits by Grant Pollard

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

F

or approaching 50 years, West Country farmer Michael Eavis has built Glastonbury into the world’s largest music festival – and remained the epitome of ‘grounded’ throughout. From the beginning it’s been an eclectic gathering, seeing everything from lectures on karma realignment to performances by most of the world’s greatest acts, from The Who to Oasis, the Rolling Stones to Coldplay, on the green, often rather squelchy, pastures of Worthy Farm.

Its origins are simple enough. Eavis went to the Bath Festival of Blues and Progressive Music in 1970, saw Led Zeppelin there, and later that year emulated it with the Pilton Pop Festival – T. Rex headlined. The following year they had David Bowie and Hawkwind, and a new name – Glastonbury Free Festival, or Glastonbury Fair. 1970 had seen 1,500 pay a quid to get in, but these days Glastonbury attracts hundreds of thousands – and millions more watching on TV. Eavis has never been an orthodox businessman. He doesn’t have a mobile, always wears shorts, and believes in giving tractor-loads of money away. “We donate about £2 million to charity each year,” he says. “Greenpeace, Oxfam, and a lot of local stuff for schools and housing. I get a real kick out of building homes for people.”

One highlight of the recent Bath Boules Week was An Evening With Michael Eavis, held in the Queen Square marquee and – says Greg Ingham, who hosted – “just the best, most moving, most inspirational thing. Michael received a standing ovation, as we presented him with a special handmade award – partly created out of stone from Worthy Farm, and designed by a young local artist, Ross Bennett.”

Glastonbury’s being going for 48 years now, and you’ve rather outgrown the farm…

But there are 22 other farmers I can rent land from, and – though there’s a bit of argy bargy – they’re grateful, as it means they get money out of the land, which they can’t get from farming any more. I certainly couldn’t do it using just my farm; it’s not big enough. We need 14,000 acres, and more every year.

Go on, what’s the best band to play Glastonbury?

I can tell you who my favourite celebrity was – a man called Edward Thompson, who was a historian and

Michael Eavis claims that he’s never played boules in his life.

“It’s French, isn’t it?” he asked us, disarmingly

peace campaigner in the CND days of the ’70s and ’80s.

He was a fantastic speaker, and a wonderful bloke with lovely, flowing grey hair. He was the biggest hero I’ve had at the festival, really.

But musically…?

“If I said ‘Coldplay are better than U2’, that would be fatal”

Oh, I can’t make comparisons between bands – they don’t like it. If I said, “Coldplay are better than U2”, that would be fatal. But there are a few least-favourites out there – in fact, one of them died a few weeks ago. I could talk about him, I suppose…

You never got Prince to perform, did you…?

No, and he would have been good. Fleetwood Mac have never done it either, as they keep falling out with each other. They’re in disarray again now, I understand. But Mick Fleetwood rings us each year to ask if they can do it, so of course we start talking, but then suddenly Stevie Nicks is unavailable, and – I don’t know, it’s all very confusing. They’d be good, wouldn’t they? Though I suppose it’s better to go for the modern stuff. Best to be up to date, really.

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

For years you said the Rolling Stones were the biggest name who’d never played…

But we’ve had most people now – U2, the Stones, Oasis… Bands generally want to do it, and aren’t too bothered about the money. They trust me not to make off with the loot – I’m not the sort to run away to live in the Bahamas. I’m just a farmer driving around in an old Land Rover – that’s me, that’s my life.

Let’s talk about the raw logistics. It must be pretty complicated, putting this thing on…

Let me tell you about the beer alone. I’ve got a chap working on that more or less full time now, as it’s an important earner for us – it brings in £2.5m each time.

But everything’s difficult about it – all these massive lorries turning up and getting stuck in a muddy field. And there aren’t many people who want to supply us, either – Carlsberg, who we’re using at the moment, always complain that they can’t charge enough, because I hate the idea of them hiking up the prices too much.

Your kids must have enjoyed an unusual upbringing, with rock stars turning up once a year, and all this money sloshing about…

At the end of day, though, I’m just a farmer with a field.

I still get up at 5.30 every morning to look after the Friesians. The farm comes first, the festival second. I’ve got six kids; four are teachers, and I’ve got a son who’s a doctor. None of them ever went down that aren’t-werich? path. They’ve all got old banger cars; I’ve got a banger myself. It’s a bit slippery, that road, isn’t it? You go down it, and the kids become no good; they won’t work, or at least won’t do worthwhile jobs – all they want is money. There’s a moral, Methodist thing running through my family; my dad was a Methodist preacher, my uncles too. It got ingrained in our blood that to buy a fast car is just not on.

What made you give Coldplay a chance as a headline act in 2002? They’d only had one album out at the time…

I also run the Pilton Party, a thank you fundraiser for the village, and when the Strokes pulled out just a couple of days before it one year, my daughter, Emily, happened to have Chris Martin’s phone number. We told him we were stuck for a headliner on Friday, and he said, which Friday? This Friday! Well, he was in Paris that night, releasing an album at 6pm, but he said he’d come afterwards. So I booked a plane for him, and got Coldplay on stage by 10pm. It’s was quite a favour he’d done us, so I told him he’s my friend for life, and he could headline the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury the following year. He didn’t believe me, his manager said he wasn’t ready for it, his agent said he wasn’t ready for it, but I said no, we’ve shaken hands on the deal. Anyway, Coldplay did it – and Chris said it was the best gig he’d ever done.

And he became a superstar.

Tell us a bit about the controversies, like the ‘superfence’ you introduced in 2002…

Some people said having a wall around the site changed the vibe, but it was just too dangerous without it; in 2000, we’d had 250,000 attending, and only half bought a ticket. So there was no choice, really – to get the license

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Michael is presented with a special award, created by local artist Ross Bennett; no awards for guessing his inspiration for the design

and get the police on side, we needed it. But though it was unpopular at the time, it was a huge success. And it showed people that we meant what we’d said – there could be no free entry any more. It was very expensive, mind you – it cost about a million pounds to rent – but it was the right thing to do.

Imagine we wanted to start our own Glastonbury.

What would you tell us?

“I still get up at 5.30am.

The farm comes first, the festival second”

Try to give the best value for money you can, and never rip people off. Make sure you never take too much of the takings – just pay yourself a sensible wage. If you don’t, it won’t work.

Do you have a personal favourite part of the Glastonbury site?

The underground piano bar at the top of Green Fields – especially on Saturday, right after the headliner has come off the Pyramid Stage. At 12.20am, I head straight there.

We could chat to you for weeks. Are you ever going to write a book about the festival – and your life?

We’re doing a picture book right now, and I’m recording an autobiography. Every Monday night between seven and nine, I record myself talking for two hours. I’ve got through 38 years so far, with about 20 to go. So if you’re wondering why I’m not in the pub on a Monday, that’s where I am. n

NIC BOTTOMLEY BOOKS

Meet your match Summer generally means wedding season, but you may not want to gift any of these books to blissful couples…

“The role of obligation and physical proximity in a marriage is explored”

M

arriage is not something to be entered into lightly. We are all aware of that. But if you use modern literature as your guide, then marriage might be regarded as something to avoid altogether.

Take An American Marriage by Tayari Jones (Oneworld, £14.99), a contemporary novel set primarily in Atlanta, Georgia. When we first meet Celestial and Roy, the black middleclass couple at the novel’s heart, they have been married for around 18 months. It’s been an optimistic marriage for the most part, with the standard ups and downs of any realistically imperfect young relationship.

On a visit to Roy’s parents in his former hometown of Eloe, Louisiana, the relatively newly weds spend the night in a low-end motel as part of Roy’s nostalgic trip. It’s a decision which seriously backfires when, in the middle of the night, they are wrenched from their beds by police. Roy is arrested and falsely accused of having committed a violent crime that night.

The story spools forward at a dramatic pace.

Roy is denied bail, and at trial he is convicted and suddenly faces a long period of incarceration.

The bulk of the book deals with the fallout from this horrendous change to their situation and does so with the couple’s alternating viewpoints of their splintered life, as well as the perspective of their mutual best friend.

While Roy struggles to come to terms with the huge injustice he has suffered, Celestial first grieves his absence but then becomes wracked with guilt at being able to continue her life while her husband has lost his freedom. An American Marriage, as the title suggests, uses a dramatic story built around a single couple to cover some very broad themes about what a marriage is truly all about. As the characters adjust to the situation and continue their lives, the role of obligation and physical proximity in a marriage is explored, as is the interplay between personal freedom and duty and the impact of parental relationships on an individual’s approach to marriage.

I have written about the late great American author Kent Haruf several times in the past.

If you want take a stroll through the strained edges of the human condition and the way families interact, then Haruf is always a strong bet. His very first novel The Tie That Binds (Macmillan, £8.99) has been on my mind again recently because my own wife, Juliette, has just discovered my old copy and started reading it.

This book’s very first scene is a flashforward to Edith Goodnough who, aged 80, is hospitalised and has been accused of murder. An eager reporter comes to Edith’s neighbour’s farm fishing for information. That reporter is abruptly turned away but we, the readers, are not. Instead that neighbour becomes our narrator and tell us the story of Edith’s time in the community beginning with her parents’ move from Iowa to a Colorado homestead (to her mother’s dismay).

Edith’s father is a brutal man devoid of warm feelings but when her mother dies, still pining for her Iowa home, Edith and her somewhat inert brother stick by their father and help take on the arduous work of the farm. And when her father then suffers a horrific harvesting accident that leaves him crippled, the true strength, and burden, of family ties becomes apparent as Edith and her brother see hope and opportunity replaced with sacrifice and a paralysing inability to shake off the ties that bind them to the farm.

You by Phil Whitaker (£9.99) is a book written by a local author and published by the brilliant and financially beleaguered Salt Publishing, who are more than deserving of any support you might choose to give their books right now. You again explores the complexities of marriage, or rather the detritus left behind when a marriage has foundered and custody battles ensue. Stevie describes his journey from Bath to Oxford for what he hopes will be a longawaited reunion with his now adult daughter who he has been unable to see for seven years.

En route, he imagines taking his daughter back to key moments from the past that might help explain how their estrangement came about.

Through this ingenious narrative structure, and his sharing of experiences with a motley crew of similarly cut-off parents in his support group, we gain Stevie’s perspective on the situation in anticipation of the longed-for meeting, and we see the impassable and cruel trenches that parents build between one another and their children when marriages don’t play out.

Three excellent thought-provoking books, I hope you’ll agree, but can we also agree they’re probably not the ones to hand out as wedding presents this summer season?

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

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LE VIGNOBLE If you’re keen to discover unusual wines that aren’t widely available, then visit Le Vignoble – where state-of-the-art wine robots will serve you tasters, so you can try before you buy Words by Lisa Evans; Photos by Derren Vranch

I

t’s human nature to cling to the familiar; the unknown can be unnerving – whether it’s a change of career, moving to a new city, or ordering something other than ‘the usual’ from the takeaway menu. It can be the same with wine; why try something different if you already have your favourites, right? But what if new is better? Think of all the flavours, bouquets and mouthfeels you might be missing out on.

Enter Le Vignoble (which means ‘the vineyard’ in French), an independent wine bar which does things very differently indeed; its USP being its self-service wine vending machines which enable you to try little tasters (for as little as 30p) or a small or large glass.

If the term ‘self-service’ makes you want to run and hide, fear not, there’s a traditional bar there, too; but if you do want to give the wine-serving robots a go, there’s someone on hand at all times to talk you through it.

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Here’s how it works: you’re given your own Le Vignoble ‘credit card’ which you can choose to either load with a chosen amount of money, or you can use it as a tab, then grab yourself a glass from the rack and take yourself on an adventure around the charmingly designed, colourful lounge space.

The notes that accompany each of the wines make it simple to see which of the tipples would appeal. And the great thing is, they aren’t pretentious or jargon-filled, so they won’t make a non-connoisseur feel out of their depth. Once a wine catches your eye, you pop your card into the machine – which will display your remaining balance (or balance spent, if you’re on a tab) – hold your glass to the nozzle and press a button. Done. All that’s left to do is to sink into a squashy velvet-upholstered seat and enjoy (until you want your next taster or glass, that is).

There’s a boozy science to the machines; they’re not just see-through boxes with buttons. Normally, when

FOOD AND DRINK REVIEW

you crack open a bottle, the air starts altering the wine – which is one of the reasons some restaurants are unable to have an extensive range of wines open at once. But these Enomatic Elite machines are able to benefit from state-of-the-art inert gas preservation and serve you wine at the optimum temperature, without any change to the taste, aroma, body or colour.

There are 32 varieties of wine in the machines to taste your way through – but different bottles are constantly being introduced to the machines, so each visit will be unique. You’ll never be in danger of forgetting what your favourites are, though, because your wine card will save the details of everything you try. There’s also a focus on small producers and unusual wines not widely available from supermarkets and other wine specialists – all with real people and a real story behind them – and there are hundreds of bottles (as well as a selection of spirits and local craft beers) to take away and sip at home.

To accompany your vino, there’s a grazing menu complete with tapas and platters offering everything from melt-in-the-mouth gooey rosemary-infused camembert, cured meats, and smoked ham shoulder with tomme de savoie, to lighter nibbles such as sweet grilled vine tomatoes with pesto and parmesan, marinated olives, and bread with garlic cream dip. The selection of recipes comes from Le Vignoble owner and oenophile Yannick Loué’s chef father in Paris. After opening the first Le Vignoble in Plymouth in 2012, this second – and only other – outlet, in Milsom Place, which opened in March, is one that Yannick feels will be well-suited to the area.

“We decided to open in Bath as it’s a professional city, and the majority of our customers are professionals – we welcome everyone to our frequent expert wine-tasting sessions, speaking events and classes,” he says. “The history of the city also fits into our ethos and shares our passion for independent businesses.”

A perfect marriage, then, between Bath and this hybrid wine business, which combines elements of lounge, retail and education; and it’s already, even in its infancy in the city, proving to be an enormous, revolutionary hit. n

“Its USP is its selfservice wine vending machines”

DINING DETAILS Le Vignoble, 12/13 Milsom Place, Milsom Street, Bath, BA1 1BZ; 01225 465907; www.levignoble.co.uk Prices Wine tasters began at 30p when we visited, but as new wines are constantly being introduced to the machines, prices will fluctuate. Wines by the glass ranged between £4 and £14.50, and bottles (which can be enjoyed in the bar or at home) ranged between £7.65 and £1,105. Tapas and sharing boards – served all day – cost between £1.50 and £9.50 Vegetarian choice Mainly cheesebased Service/atmosphere Extremely knowledgeable staff and a chic, refined environment

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

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 Road, Bath; 01225 331922; www.thebathpriory.co.uk Delicious fine dining overlooking the hotel's award-winning gardens CIRCUS RESTAURANT 34 Brock Street, Bath; 01225 466020; www.thecircusrestaurant.co.uk Voted number four in the UK in The Times's “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, plus a beautiful terrace CORKAGE 132 Walcot St, Bath; 01225 422577 Chapel Row, Bath; 01225 423417 www.corkagebath.com Award-winning small plates restaurant and wine specialist 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 a 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 84 MEDIACLASH.CO.UK

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

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

CAFÉS & COFFEE SHOPS

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

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 DARCY’S 34 Gay St, Bath; 01225 425308 www.facebook.com/darcysbath Independent café/newsagent in Bath. Serving breakfast and lunch, coffee and cake daily GREEN BIRD CAFÉ 11 Margaret's Buildings, Bath; 01225 487846; www.greenbirdcafe.co.uk Independently-run café located between the Circus and Royal Crescent THE KINGSMEAD KITCHEN 1 Kingsmead St, Kingsmead Square, Bath; 01225 329002; www.fieldfireandfeast.co.uk Laid-back, modern café-bar open daily from 8am until 6pm for breakfast, brunch, lunch and tea using farm produce

CALIFORNIAN 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

GASTROPUBS GPT SMOKEHOUSE 44-45 Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 429509; www.gptbath.com 'Dude Food' menu cooked with an authentic handmade American hot smoker 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 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 THE LOCKSBROOK INN 103 Locksbrook Rd, Bath; 01225 427119; www.thelocksbrookinn.com Canalside 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 RICHMOND ARMS 7 Richmond Place, Bath; 01225 316725; www.therichmondarmsbath.com Hearty dishes with menu changing on a daily basis

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

ITALIAN CAFFÈ CARUSO 3 Trim Bridge, Bath; 01225 426735 www.caffecarusobath.co.uk Independent restaurant with authentic Italian dishes SOTTO SOTTO 10 North Parade, Bath 01225 330236; www.sottosotto.co.uk Classic Italian menu with a contemporary twist in candlelit vaulted cellars

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

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

TAPAS

STEAKHOUSES

THAI

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

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

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

TAPAS REVOLUTION 20A St Lawrence St, Bath; 01225 312917 www.tapasrevolution.com/bath Authentic Spanish tapas plus an outside terrace

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

OUTSIDE OF BATH BRITISH NO. 10 TEA GARDENS Avoncliff, Westwood, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 2HD; 01225 853361 www.avonclifftea.com An independent tea garden located next to the picturesque aqueduct at Avoncliff 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-starred fine dining at the renowned Park restaurant, and more informal dining at the stylish contemporary brasserie at this five star country house hotel WIDBROOK GRANGE HOTEL Trowbridge Road, Bradford on Avon BA15 1UH; 01225 864750; www.widbrookgrange.co.uk

Modern farmhouse cuisine, locally sourced and freshly prepared

GASTROPUBS TIMBRELL'S YARD 49 St Margaret's St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1DE; 01225 869492 timbrellsyard.com Timbrell's Yard is a rejuvenated Coaching Inn, in beautiful Bradford-On-Avon, Wiltshire, with excellent dining and luxurious accommodation THE GEORGE AT WOOLLEY 67 Woolley St, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1AQ; 01225 865650; www.thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk Lovingly refurbished gastropub from awardwinning 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 Award-winning modern British food and cask ales in country inn 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 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 ■

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 85

Bianco Rosso Pizza Co.

Mobile Wood Fire Artisan Pizzeria

Hire us for private parties, weddings, business lunches, festivals and village fêtes.

Our smart new pizza trailer can now also be hired as a Bar with nibbles/finger food for your special occasion.

For info please call Vito on 07872 335120 or e-mail us on vitoalbergo@live.com

Please check our Facebook page and Instagram for info, news, pics and where to find us during the week.

Nestled in 36 acres of beautiful West Country parkland, Ston Easton Park is unique; the hotel is adorned with original antique furniture, sumptuous fabrics and glistening chandeliers, yet the warm welcome and homely atmosphere prevails, creating an idyllic home-away-from-home.

One of the most luxurious pet-friendly country house Hotels in Somerset with an award-winning fine dining restaurant and kitchen garden. Our Head Chef is passionate about developing menus that use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients; he works closely with local suppliers and the hotel garden team, sourcing almost 60% of the fresh produce used in the menus from the hotel’s Victorian kitchen gardens. As well as offering the perfect destination for a luxury hotel break, the house is open daily to non-residents for morning coffee, lunch and light snacks, traditional afternoon tea and dinner. Located just 12 miles from Bristol and 11.9 miles from Bath.

Ston Easton, Nr Bath, Somerset BA3 4DF To book, call 01761 241631 or email reception@stoneaston.co.uk

www.stoneaston.co.uk

SPECIAL OFFER

Complimentary glass of Prosecco to all joining us for Afternoon Tea. QUOTE BA05 (Offer valid 27/06/18 –26/07/18)

Quality food • Great location • Free delivery

Our new website is now LIVE!

5% off online orders www.bathsushi.co.uk 01225 330508

CAFE KITCHEN Welcome to our award-winning café - providing young people with special needs a unique opportunity to gain work experience and training.

We are working with the local community and employers to develop work experience opportunities after students have worked in 3 Cafe Kitchen.

Spring/Summer menu now available!

Enjoy delicious food and soak up the sun in our outdoor seating area.

Sandwiches • Quiche • Jacket Potatoes Open Monday to Friday 8am–4pm | Saturday 8am–12pm Available for private hire. Please call Amelia on 01225 838070 or email amelia.hartley@threeways.co.uk Located @ 180 Frome Road, Odd Down, BA2 5RF

TESTING, TESTING CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT, Crispy cooking at The Oven; strawberry cheesecake pudding pizza at Fire and Brew; freshly cut slices at Bath Pizza Co.

IN PIZZA WE CRUST

We’re not short of a pizzeria in Bath.

Each one offers tasty flavours and settings, but we’ve picked our faves...

1

THE OVEN The head chef has previously won pizza chef of the year, and we can see why. The Oven’s dough is raised for 40 hours, then topped with a mix of local and imported ingredients of the Neopolitan kind. Sit on the outside terrace and tuck into one of the more unique choices – such as their fior di latte mozzarella base (no tomato sauce), with truffle and porcini mushroom cream, smoked mozzarella and speck. There are drinks and digestifs aplenty, plus a wine list courtesy of wine bar Vino Vino next door. The atmosphere is famously friendly, but if you’re without the time or appetite for a full pizza, head over to sister takeaway outlet The Slice on New Bond Street.

See page 38 for more. www.theovenpizzeria.co.uk

2

BATH PIZZA CO. An informal and cosy place to meet friends for a pizza and pint. Despite being all-round good value, quality local ingredients still prevail, with Bath farmers’ market produce topping classics such as pepperoni and marinara. The Co’s huge log-burning oven makes for swift service and a crispy base (gluten-free is also an option), but the setting is special in itself. Al fresco dining under the cover of the railway station is delightful on a

live jazz night. Our top recommendation is the vegan special (roasted vegetables, sunblushed tomatoes, spinach, rocket, and onion), but for something meatier, try the Tunley Farm chicken and homemade pesto. Your tastebuds will thank you. See page 38 for more. www.bathpizzaco.com

3

THE REAL ITALIAN PIZZA COMPANY Expect an authentic and relaxed meal, with a menu motto of ‘Get real!’. Just a stone’s throw away from the Abbey, courtyard tables are perfect for warm evenings. There’s nothing pretentious, either – just good service and fresh food, cooked up in an oven imported from Italy, no less (and fired with wood produced and dried by the Longleat Estate). Pizza-wise, the menu is divided into classics and specials, plus panzerotti al forno (folded varieties garnished with salad). Customers’ choice is La Bella Vita, a feast of flavours from Italian cured meats and roasted chicken chunks. www.realitalianpizza.co.uk

4

FIRE AND BREW As the brainchild of a restaurateur, a brewery owner and a cider-maker, this turns the traditional pizza place on its head. Great beer, pizza and coffee is an odd combo, but it works

(trust us). Found on Moorland Road, options are named after the surrounding streets in Oldfield Park – such as St. Kilda, with garlic oil, melty mushrooms and Bath Blue cheese, finished with a nutty herby garnish. The team attract couples and families (dogs and children are very welcome), and they host coffee mornings. It’s best to enjoy your eats at the rustic wood tables, although the full menu – and Bath’s biggest collection of craft beers – can be taken away, too. Just leave room for the pudding pizza. www.fireandbrew.com

5

BIANCO ROSSO PIZZA CO. This is a family-run (and mobile) business based in the pretty village of Freshford. Chef Vito Albergo cooks up delish homemade pizzas for locals, fetes, events and dinner or birthday parties.

Service comes with a warm smile and charm, and is served at the village’s Memorial Hall car park on Wednesday and Friday evenings (other locations pop up on the website regularly). Vito’s dough is raised for 24 hours, giving a base that’s light and easy to digest. There’s even a healthier option – if such a thing exists for a pizza – which is gluten-, lactose- and wheat- (but not flavour) free, featuring beetroot, grilled veg and optional fish. ■ biancorossoweb.wordpress.com

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

FOOD & DRINK NEWS

CHEESE AND CHAMPERS Shop and bistro Champagne+Fromage has been bringing rustic French fare and fizz to London for many years, and has four outlets including those in Covent Garden and Brixton village. Their branding has now been spotted in our fair city – on number 5 George Street.

Champagne+Fromage is the magic combo of two different companies: FrenchBubbles, an artisanal collection of fine, limited production grower champagne, and Une Normande à Londres, who supply the very best cheese, cured meat and preserves. Collectively, they offer an authentic French menu, with tartines, charcuterie boards and seasonal specials. With more than 50 (French) soft and hard cheeses featuring in their fromagerie, the choice is ripe.

The company also holds afternoon teas, monthly champagne tastings and corporate events at their London locations, and we expect them to follow suit in Bath. Work has already started inside the French market and bistro – which is currently teasing us with a “coming soon” poster – but Champagne+Fromage aims to officially open up in September. We’ll brie keeping our eyes peeled…

For more: www.champagneplusfromage.co.uk

Ready for duty – the very first Lucknam team 30 years ago

BY INVITATION ONLY We like the sound of making Lucknam Park our home from home. The five-star hotel and estate is celebrating its 30th anniversary this month by launching a unique luxury membership club, called Privilege by Lucknam Park (which will put discerning regular customers at the heart). If you needed an excuse to visit the country house more often, Privilege promises VIP services and offers for dining, spa, staying, cookery and equestrian activities.

To join the exclusive club, there’s a one-off annual fee of £150. But after that, the benefits are worth much more, including: four complimentary cookery school and riding experiences, complimentary afternoon teas, and discounts in the brasserie, restaurant and ESPA. Privilege members will also get first pick on member-only invitations, gourmet and social events, as well as offers posted on the online portal. Lovers of luxury rejoice, as Lucknam is now taking on prospective Privilege members. We know you can already taste the welcome bevvy…

For more: www.lucknampark.co.uk

LOVE ALL Bath isn’t short of afternoon tea purveyors, and

Cheeses and fizzes coming soon to the city centre

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

so it takes something special to stand out from the crowd. Award-winning head chef Dan Moon at The Gainsborough Bath Spa hotel has created a Wimbledon-themed afternoon tea, which will be served (pun, intended) in the beautiful Canvas Room between 2–15 July, to coincide with the famous tennis tournament.

As well as classic staples like freshly baked scones and finger sandwiches, guests can expect to see a little drama at their table, with eye-catching cakes and other sweet treats vying for your attention. You’re bound to ‘love all’ the cakes on the plate at this tennis feast, with pistachio eclairs and Pimm’s jelly taking centre court. This tennis tea runs daily from 3 – 5:30pm, at £30 per person or £46 with a glass of champagne.

For more: www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

Take a tennis break for a spot of tea

Indian summer dining couldn’t be better than dining at Mint Room Bath and the re-opening of our Piper Heidsieck Rooftop Champagne Bar

THE TERRACE

Sit Back, Relax and Let Us Serve You Open every day, for everyone, from May to September.

Parasols for the sunshine, patio heaters for the cooler evenings.

Morning Coffee | Lite Bites & Lunch | Cocktails Evening nibbles | Wines & Champagnes North Parade, Bath, Somerset, BA1 1LF | 01225 461603 | abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

Sunday brunch coming 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

SMARTY DRY CLEANING

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

20% OFF CURTAINS Subject to terms and conditions

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

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

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shopping live well, buy better

Vintage diving lantern, £620. Felix lighting Specialists, 6 Bartlett Street, Bath, BA1 2QZ; 01225 315110; www. felixlightingspecialists.co.uk

sea to shining sea

© Paolo Ferl a

All rooms need a variety of lights: ambient or background lighting, task lighting for close-up work, accent lighting to highlight unique features, and accessory lights – even if they’re just for ornamental use – which simply look cool and bring some character to your living spaces.

The funky Felix Lighting Specialists on Bartlett Street always turns our head (it’s between our office and the city centre, so we window-swoon daily on our way to and from lunch breaks).

At the fascinating shop, you’ll find one of the country’s most extensive collections of vintage, industrial and maritime lights from around the world, as well as their own range of lighting and furniture that they handcraft themselves.

The striking antique lights that you’ll find in store have been given a new lease of life after being recovered from such places as American warships, Russian submarines, nuclear bunkers and 1950s trams.

There are even Royal Navy ‘man overboard’ markers, vintage prison search lights,1950s desk lamps from the NYPD, and original ‘walk/don’t walk’ street signs from New York.

This is a shop containing rare and wonderful delights, and if you’re searching for that one unique feature light, we suggest you start here.

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

CLUTCH BAG, £34.50 Perfect for after work or at the weekend, this textured leather clutch has a versatile and practical design but it will also add an instant polish to your outfit From Portman, 28 Milsom Street, Bath; www.nickieportman.co.uk

SOMA NECKLACE, £30 A delicate pendant necklace of linked gold metal, cotton tassels and metal fringing, handmade in India From Leak, 3 Larkhall Square, Bath

INDIE CITY As July is Independent Retailer Month, we’ve asked local traders to showcase their favourite items in their shops at this very moment CURVE EARRINGS, £110 These lightweight Laura Lombardi accessories, made from vintage brass components, epitomise the simple chic look and are a fresh update of the oversize gold hoop From Found, 17 Argyle Street, Bath; www.foundbath.co.uk

MAYA SOFA, FROM £1,385 Statement sofas can really bring a room to life by allowing you to create a whole new look with just one key piece; this fuchsia three-seater is a bold winner for us From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

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

LAMPSHADES, £75 EACH Handmade from silk and velvet, add these Emma June Designs lampshades into your living spaces for a cool, minimalist look From Verve Living, 15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; www.verveliving.uk

ED’S CHOICE

PHOTAGE, FROM £500 ‘Photage’ artworks are made up of photographs printed on a collection of individual high-gloss blocks, which give it a 3D effect. This is a definite talking-point piece – whether it’s a collage of your wedding photos or your favourite spots in Bath From Flamingo, 7 Widcombe Parade, Bath; www.flamingobath.co.uk

MAILEG CIRCUS TENT, £110 Complete with talented mice, this charming, Scandinavian-designed circus tent lets children’s imaginations run free From My Small World, 19-21 St Lawrence Street, Southgate, Bath; www.mysmallworld.co.uk

SABATINI GIN, £39.95 A smooth, exceptionally fresh gin from Italy. It is clean on the palate and is infused with botanicals such as juniper, sage, fennel and lavender From Tasting Room Wine & Spirits, 6 Green Street, Bath; www.tastingroom.co.uk

MOLTEN LAVA BLAZER, £625 Created by Bradford on Avon-based fine artist Sonya Rothwell, this hand-painted blazer is a wearable work of art – not for play-it-safers From Gallery Beautiful, The Courts, The Walk, Holt, Bradford On Avon; www.gallerybeautiful.com

HANDMADE BASKET, £32.95 This Abayomi basket – hand-woven from seagrass – would have multiple uses around the home (such as storing your favourite issues of Bath Life,, perhaps?)

From Homefront Interiors, 10 Margaret's Buildings, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

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

CHEMICAL

GLOWPEEL Anti-Ageing Glycolic Peel. Introductory offer at Beyond Beauty Bath

£60

Beyond Beauty on 01225 338838 | www.beyondbeautybath.com 18 Chelsea Road, Bath, BA1 3DU

EVENTS - MINVERVA’S OWLS TRAIL

DISCOVER THE MINERVA’S OWLS TRAIL AT BMI BATH CLINIC BMI Bath Clinic is inviting the local community to discover its own medical owl sculpture, to be unveiled as part of the Minerva's Owls of Bath 2018 Trail.

On site at Bath Clinic and accessible directly from the National Trust Skyline Walk in Combe Down.

FREE – OWL UNVEILING Why not explore the National Trust Skyline Walk at the same time?

¡ WHEN? Saturday 30th June, 10.00 -11.00am ¡ WHAT? Pop-up owl tea party, competitions & more! ¡ WHERE? BMI Bath Clinic, Claverton Down Rd, Bath BA2 7BR / Accessible via National Trust Skyline Walk Booking not required. To find out more call 07525 770525 or follow @BMIBathClinic on Facebook / Twitter BMI Card is a credit facility offered by BMI Healthcare Limited, BMI Healthcare House, 3 Paris Garden, London, SE1 8ND. 0% interest for 12 months then 0.79% per month, representative 9.9% APR variable. Up to £20,000 available (subject to status). Monthly repayment 5% of balance or £25 whichever is greater or balance if lower than £25.

Serious about health.

Passionate about care.

Why go private at BMI Bath Clinic?

BMI CARD

BMI Bath Clinic’s Private GP Service offers access to tailored consultations from £65*

GP APPOINTMENTS WHEN YOU NEED THEM *Prices subject to change

BUSINESSINSIDER B AT H G E T S S E R I O U S

Quote of the issue

“I LIKE TO FISH, TO SOCIALISE (NOT WITH FISH OBVIOUSLY) AND TO HAVE A BALL” David Maxwell relaxes, page 111

The Big Number Fashion illos, design and modern textiles meet on the walls of M.C.A

£1.3M

The hefty bill to turn The Octagon chapel into a quirky bar, page 108

THE ART OF FASHION Fashion and textiles take centre stage in Bath with new gallery Gray M.C.A opening in the city

B

ath isn’t short on style, with the fashion museum on our doorstep and an array of talented makers and designers in our midst. At the start of June, though, we welcomed the arrival of a new international (but independently owned) fashion and textiles gallery.

Gray M.C.A have got something of a reputation (in a good way) for uncovering rare and dynamic fashion pieces from private international collections, estates and archives, and then bringing these lost treasures

back into the light. Although they regularly exhibit in stunning spaces in London, New York and Palm Beach annually, Bath will be their first fixed address – they’ve decided to make a permanent home at the city's Margaret’s Buildings.

“We are very excited to be opening in Bath with our permanent gallery space”, says Gray M.C.A director Ashley Gray. “We will continue to celebrate the incredible talent and versatility of the great 20th-century artists and illustrators in the field of fashion and textiles,

alongside the contemporary masters of the genre.”

The gallery already has two upcoming exhibitions scheduled, including their simply titled Summer Show (on now) which features original artworks of internationally recognised fashion illustrators such as René Gruau and Kenneth Paul, along with block and textile works by leading modern British artists.

Later in the year, Gray M.C.A will be transferring the internationally acclaimed annual exhibition Drawing on style from London

Fashion Week straight to Bath – a move sure to please fashionistas, textile students and art collectors.

The original works will be bringing their own touch of sophistication to the city, having been spotted in fashion magazines around the world.

“Collectors world-wide are at last waking up to the historical importance and beauty of fashion illustration as fine art in its own right,” says Connie Gray, Gray M.C.A's fashion curator.

“Bath is the ideal location, with strong links to the history of fashion and its position as an international destination for collectors.”

For more: www.graymca.co.uk

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 115

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

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

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

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

BUSINESS INSIDER

ONE TO WATCH

© JUDITH WHITE

Sarah Bremner bakes a business treat at No.10 Tea Gardens

ABOVE: Sarah keeps her fresh scones close and under cloche

If a scone with a view is what you’re after, then No. 10 Tea Gardens – perched on the Avoncliff Aqueduct in Bradford on Avon – is the perfect spot.

Owner and chief baker of the picturesque tearoom Sarah Bremner talks Great British weather, tea, local suppliers and her future business plans...

Where did the business name come from?

I am an avid viewer of Great British Bake Off and still behave like a tourist every time I go to London. I wanted a London theme and the opportunity to make a replica of the real No.10 Downing Street front door led to the creation of No.10 Tea Gardens. Plus, it allowed me to buy myself lots of London-themed teapots, paintings and cushions like the tourist that I am.

the business?

It was the location and scenery that tempted me to open my business in Avoncliff, just over four years ago.

What would we find if we came for tea?

We have several cake options available at any given time. We do all the traditional cakes – carrot cake, Victoria sponge, lemon drizzle and apple cake – in addition to fluffy scones in our cream teas. Last year’s favourite was our refreshing raspberry, blueberry and lime drizzle cake, but that has been eclipsed this year by our glutenfree pistachio, almond and polenta cake. We are also attracting more vegans this year with our orange polenta cake and our vegan friendly Victoria sponge.

Describe the tea garden in three words....

Picturesque, friendly and relaxing.

It all sounds delicious, do you bake everything yourself?

Yes. Not just the cakes and scones but the jam and fudge are also homemade.

It’s in a fabulous location. How long have you been running

And most of the ingredients are local, too?

Absolutely. I bake using lovely organic eggs from New MacDonalds Farm (in the hills of Bath), which has improved my cake quality and enhanced the colour of my sponges. Our milk and clotted cream is also organic, and supplied by Ivy House Farm Dairy (in Frome). Many of our soft drinks are supplied by the excellent Bradley’s Juice (based in North Somerset) and our coffee is supplied by Dusty Ape (roasted in Hilperton). Marshfield supplies our ice cream, and even the apples in my apple cake have been homegrown.

What makes you stand out from your competitors?

There are lots of excellent independent tearooms in the area.

However, if No.10 does stand out it is probably because our customers know that everything is freshly made on the premises. The kitchen is in full view of our customers and they can see and smell the cakes and scones baking in the oven.

Actively trying to keep our food miles as low as possible has also proven popular with our customers, and we display our food miles (and suppliers) in the tea garden.

What challenges does the business face on a daily basis?

It is a British-based establishment, so it has to be the weather. The vast majority of our seating is outside and we are located on Route 4 of the National Cycle Network and adjacent to the Kennet & Avon Canal, so our business is very weather dependent.

You serve British-grown tea...why did you choose Tregothnan?

We wanted something British, and Tregothnan was the first estate to grow tea in the UK. They have a huge variety of teas available, and the taste is first class. They also supply the ‘real’ No.10 (Downing Street) and are a great bunch of people to work with.

Tell us about the ethos of the tea gardens?

Everyone is welcome. Being situated next to the Avoncliff Aqueduct, there are many who visit the area, from walkers and cyclists to bird watchers, train spotters, watersports enthusiasts, tourists, families and dog walkers.

What did you want to be when you were little?

It sounds corny but my dream has always been to bake cakes for a living. My Mum is a skilled baker so it has always been in my blood. I had to live in the real world for 10 years going to university in Plymouth, and working in Exeter for Devon and Cornwall Police, but I got there in the end.

What are the best aspects of your job?

As ever, it is the people who make the job most interesting. We have many regulars who I chat to on a weekly basis. As much as I enjoy seeing them and hearing how their week has gone, I also very much enjoy meeting new visitors to the tea garden and hearing what has taken them to the area. People aside, experimenting with new recipes is so much fun.

What do you like best about working where you do?

I never tire of Avoncliff: the location is a gem. Our neighbours are great and hugely supportive, our customers are such lovely people, and there are so many four-legged friends in the tea garden every day that it is never dull (I love dogs).

Do you have a typical customer?

I think many of our customers are out to enjoy the wonderful scenery in the area and most are completing a little exercise along the way, either by walking, cycling, dog walking or even canoeing.

What are your business plans for the future?

There are still one or two minor projects which we want to complete to enhance the customer experience. We are speaking with a supplier about a tea-infused gin, which may feature in 2019.

Surprise or delight us...

The majority of changes I brought in for 2018 were designed to enhance the doggy experience at No. 10. Our four legged friends can now enjoy a puppuccino, a homemade luxury dog treat or cool down with a Scoops Ice Cream (designed for dogs by Marshfield), and we also dish out free dog biscuits. www.avonclifftea.com

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BUSINESS INSIDER

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

BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY From networking breakfasts to invaluable evening courses, make a note of the courses and classes that will help your business flourish 26 JUNE STRATEGY AND BUSINESS Every business needs a clear plan and a strategy. By the end of this free workshop, you’ll have decided on a set of short-, medium- and long-term objectives. More importantly, you’ll have the confidence and motivation to move forward with them. 9am – 5pm; Bath and County Club; www.eventbrite.co.uk

Todd and fans match in the famous blue, black and white

We’re already getting excited thinking about a new season of rugby, and it seems everyone else is eager, too. Director of rugby Todd Blackadder and club captain Matt Garvey are thanking all the loyal Bath Rugby supporters who have already renewed their season tickets ahead of the 2018/19 season.

The first announcements for the upcoming squad have been made, and we’ll see a host of new faces donning the blue, black and white for the first time this season – including Wales international Jamie Roberts and England under-20s hotshot Joe Cokanasiga. “We’ve built a really good squad with some real depth,” says Todd Blackadder.

“The young players coming up through the Academy experienced the Anglo-Welsh, Premiership and Champions Cup rugby for the first time last year and that will put them in good stead this season. We’ve also recruited very well over the summer with the signings of the new players and Girvan Dempsey.”

“When some of our boys, such as Sam (Underhill) and Roko (Semesa

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

Rokoduguni), recover from injury they will be like new players coming in and that will lift the squad,” adds captain Matt Garvey. “We can then push on, have a good pre-season and hit the new season running.”

With so much to look forward to, the overwhelming response for renewed season tickets from supporters isn’t surprising. On the first day of launch, the club saw double the amount of renewals as this time last year. “You can’t understate the importance of the supporters and what they bring,” Matt says. “It’s so humbling to see them travel up and down the country to support us.”

Being a season ticket holder at Bath Rugby comes with many perks, including guaranteed seats, city and merchandise discounts and even access to tickets for England matches.

To begin your journey to owning a season ticket, though, you’ll now need to sign up to the waiting list.

In anticipation of the first game of 2018/2019 – played in September – the club are looking forward to welcoming fans back to the Rec. “Together, we are Bath,” says Matt.

For more: www.bathrugby.com

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC

28 JUNE ANALYTICS AND CONVERSION Are you looking for insights from your website visitors?

This half-day conference will suit marketers involved in web analytics, conversion and performance. With support from Google HQ and other industry friends, learn about innovations and understand your customers. £63; 12.30 – 5.30pm; Apex Hotel; www. eventorganisersnetwork.co.uk 4 JULY STARTING IN BUSINESS Thinking of starting your own business? Perhaps you already have? This free workshop provides start-up advice and guidance from an experienced business adviser. Starting in business is the key point here, along with understanding finance, strategic planning and prepping a business plan.

6pm; Bath and County Club; www.coolventures.co.uk 18 JULY BATH LIFE BUSINESS CLUB Spend time among Bath’s leading business minds in stylish surroundings over a fine lunch. Our speaker is Jonathan Stapleton, general manager of the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. Come and hear what it’s like running one of Bath’s most iconic businesses. £60; 12pm; The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa; www. bathlifebusinessclub.com

Dan James and Steve Elliott

DODGING DISTRESS

Bath’s MHA Monahans has just appointed Dan James as senior manager, which inflates their specialist business recovery and insolvency team.

Dan has been helping companies and individuals in financial difficulty for over 15 years, and as Monahans works with businesses of all sizes and sectors in the area, his expertise from clients across the South West will surely complement his new colleagues.

“The MHA Monahans insolvency and business recovery team works closely with other accountants, solicitors and banks to jointly support their clients in times of need, and I’m looking forward to working more with businesses across the whole of the South West,” Dan says.

Steve Elliott of MHA Monahans is delighted to have Dan onboard. “With his strong track record of advising businesses in distress, he will be key to building our profile across the region and ensuring that companies are aware that there are experienced professionals locally to whom they can turn.”

NEXT GEN LAWYERS

Royds Withy King is Bath’s largest law firm, and has recently promoted five of its star solicitors to associates and senior associates in its Bath offices. Two of its latest trainees James Worrall and Mark Hambleton, who were both ranked as ‘Associates to Watch’ in the latest edition of Chambers and Partners UK’s guide to the legal profession, have also been promoted, to partners.

Stuart Brazington is lead partner in the Bath office of Royds Withy King.

“We are delighted to announce James’s and Mark’s promotions,” he says. “Both new partners in our Bath office started out as trainees and learned, developed and grew with the firm. They put a huge amount of time and effort into their work and continually go over and above to deliver a consistently high level of service to their clients.”

BUSINESS INSIDER

FAB FIVE

Part-time fashion and textiles student at Bath Spa University and full-time shepherdess Katie Allen recently took to the small screen with her British woollen textiles company, Loopy Ewes. Katie featured on the BBC 2 TV show, Back to the Land, with presenter Kate Humble, who took viewers on a tour of the UK to meet Katie and other inspirational entrepreneurs who are spearheading a rural revolution.

Cotswolds-based Katie balances studying with real-world experience by running her own business – turning wool from her flock of rare breed Portland and Castlemilk Moorit sheep into handcrafted and contemporary homewares, with the help of the Natural Fibre Company.

“I am beyond amazed to be among a group of fantastic rural businesses described as passionate, headstrong, pioneering trailblazers,” says Katie. “The support and guidance from tutors at Bath Spa University has been invaluable and the course has given me the opportunity to understand my practice and the market I need to take my work into, on an entirely different level.”

Black has just opened their newest store in the city. They arrived in Northumberland Place on 26 May after transforming the former JOY shop into a bedroom haven.

The new store features room settings (that have been completed with lighting and furniture) designed to inspire shoppers with looks they can achieve in their own homes. F&B even pays attention to the science of sleep, and a mattress studio should help you decide which mattress will suit your sleep style best.

“We’re delighted to be bedding down in the beautiful city of Bath and looking forward to showing locals how to snooze in style,” says Gemma Reynolds, head of retail.

We believe the ultimate bedroom should combine style, comfort and practicality.”

For more: www.featherandblack.com

Novia Financial – the city’s leading wealth management service – has just announced its results for the past year (and they’re looking good).

Profits are up 110 per cent from the previous year, with newly submitted business reaching record levels, too.

This rapid increase in sales has given Novia the confidence to invest in the development of their business, which means a new online website On show, there’s also furniture, sumptuous linens and lights galore

SNOOZE IN STYLE

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

For more: www.thebotanist.uk.com

THE RESULTS ARE IN

For more: www.loopyewes.co.uk

As we all spend a third of our lives in bed, it pays to create the perfect bedroom sanctuary. Luxury bedroom furniture brand Feather &

The Octagon Chapel on Milsom Street was built in 1767 but stopped being a place of worship in 1895.

More recently, it’s been home to Burger & Lobster and The Confessional, but has been closed for over a year. Now, the site could reopen thanks to £1.3million refurbishment by The Botanist – a quirky cocktail bar with over 10 other UK locations. The move could also create 50 full-time jobs.

The potential owners plan to add a quirky twist to the old chapel, using every floor (there are three) to maximise the space. “The Botanist brand combines the use of reclaimed timber and aged metalwork to create a quirky environment for all ages,” says the planning application. “Hung up on the walls you’ll find aged garden tools, a themed garden area and eccentric chandeliers hanging from whitewashed timber ceilings.”

It’s up to B&NES council to decide the fate of the application. If the move-in is approved, there will be plenty more proposals outlining the themed décor and refit, which will see the Octagon Chapel and Vaults brought back into regular use.

TOP There’s no pulling the wool over this entrepreneur’s eyes, ABOVE, Could the Octagon Chapel be brought back to its former glory?

© BONNIE ROSE

CURIOUS LIBERATIONS

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

ALL EYES ON EWE

Makeover magic in a new beauty hub

platform coming soon.

“These strong results help to illustrate the success of the Novia business model,” says Bill Vasilieff, CEO. “Our absolute commitment to providing advisers with the tools and services required to support their clients in an ever changing regulatory landscape remains our priority.”

For more: www.novia-financial.co.uk

SUITE SUCCESS

We all need a good pamper from time to time, and a new salon (well, suite) has just opened up in the heart of the city. The previous owner of the popular Manicure Suite on Westgate Street, Martha Heather, has teamed up with her twin Mathilde Heather, and their new combined home is called The Suite.

The sisters and their team have merged their talents of hair and beauty into the stunning building that is 35 Gay Street, and after a snazzy launch party (see page 24) they’re already offering a range of modern and exciting treatments for their customers.

“We had a wonderful evening celebrating our launch,” say the pair.

“We can’t wait for you to see our new venue.” Whatever your beauty needs, The Suite is sure to suit.”

For more: www.thesuitebath.co.uk

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BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2018

Tamer of tresses DAVID MAXWELL, at David Maxwell Hairdressing, tells us about his win The awards were a while ago now, but how did it feel to win?

We had a wonderful time at the Bath Life awards, as there was such a welcoming atmosphere. When they announced our salon win, we felt absolutely elated.

It was a surprise because we knew the competition was high, but this also made us feel incredibly proud.

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What makes David Maxwell stand out from its competitors?

We have an exceptional team who are fun, passionate about hair and forwardthinking. We train not only to stay ahead of trends, but also to ensure that we can maintain five-star customer service.

Do you think this is why you won?

We (hopefully) won because we have succeeded through adversity. The high street is going through a tough economic period and yet our average bill is increasing year on year. Despite this, our customers are happy to spend extra during their time in the salon on colour services, retail and treatments.

How did you get into hair?

I have always known that I wanted a creative job in either art or hairdressing, but the deciding factor came when I realised the girl I was lusting after was a hairdresser. I had just left school and I happened to discover that she worked in my local hairdressers. I asked them for a job in the salon and got it on the spot.

In what ways has DMH grown since it started?

The business has grown in profitability year-on-year. Personally, the team has grown in confidence, we work better together and we are constantly developing our skills, knowledge of hairdressing and customer service.

© JENI MEADE

Is being part of the local community important to you?

The community are our customers. We feel that it is very important to contribute to Bath, to understand its needs, and to support independent businesses and local charities wherever we can.

What’s the best part of your job?

The social interaction with customers.

It keeps the job fresh and exciting, and, in return, so many of our guests have become close friends over the years.

Beth and David swap scissors for prizes

Describe a tricky time for DMH...

7am, when I have to get out of bed and am not yet caffeinated. On a

serious note, it is a tricky time for us economically but we are getting through with the support of our loyal customers who have stayed with us over the years.

Any exciting services coming up?

Hair sewing is a new one; it’s perfect for weddings, proms and festivals. We can fix your hair in to a beautiful up-do by sewing your hair in to place for 24 – 48 hours. You don’t have to worry about annoying clips or unsightly hair ties.

Your proudest hair moment?

Last autumn I went to South Africa for a photoshoot with Kevin Murphy. I transformed the hair for a very beautiful model to really give her the wow factor.

What do you love most about being based in Bath?

Everything from the friendly community to the architecture. It is such an artistic and creative city to live in. I truly believe that Bath is ‘the biggest village in Britain’.

It is compact and provides everything you could want and desire.

What’s the salon atmosphere like?

The salon is always fun, welcoming, warm, lively and full of laughter. It is a great place to work and this in turn makes it an amazing place for guests to fulfill their hair care needs.

What do you do when you’re not chopping and styling?

I like to fish, to socialise (not with fish obviously), and to have a ball.

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

Never give up, as you learn the most from your mistakes.

For more: www.davidmaxwellhairdressing.co.uk

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BUSINESS INSIDER

NO SMALL FRY The sweet legend and entrepreneur COSMO FRY lights up lunch with his vibrant and bold business moves Hotelier, entrepreneur, charmer, scion of the famed Fry (Turkish Delight) family, star of a TV documentary, Theatre Royal Bath board member, licensor of a game which you only win by lying… Cosmo Fry is a character.

He was comfortable with being called all of the above, but not being introduced, after lunch, as the main event. It’s hard to know where to start interviewing a man with such an array of business ventures, so we first asked him how he’d describe himself. “A risk taker,” he answers. And what’s been his riskiest venture? “Without a doubt, the hotel business.” Hint – that’s where the questioning started...

Cosmo’s life as an hotelier started in 1999, after a nightmare stay in Nottingham. “I had no experience in the hospitality industry, but a classic blue sky vision. We thought we could deliver something better; a city-based hotel brand that was clean, simple and £45 a night, to roll out across the South."

It took twelve months to open the first hotel in Cardiff – a pretty rapid feat given the scale of the project and the relative inexperience of its

owners. “My wife was a journalist (at the Saturday Telegraph), and had a thorough knowledge of the fashion industry, so we thought that would work for us. I could design, too, and I’d done marketing."

Would the hotel plan ever have made it through Dragon’s Den today? “Well you’d have made a shrewd investment,” he says, with a characteristic twinkle in his eye.

“We settled on a name called The Big Sleep hotel. I remember thinking we’d call it Easy Sleep, but Stelios had cornered the market with their brand of easyHotel. It was a good name until we got to Eastbourne (our third location) where – with all due respect – most people go to die.”

This isn’t the official marketing for the resort town, and we swiftly moved on, pondering that so much of good business involves luck and timing. The Cardiff Big Sleep hotel was located very near to the (then) new Millennium Stadium.

As Wembley was closing down and refurbing, all the main events (Madonna, The Rolling Stones, The FA Cup Final) were taking place on its doorstep. “We were very

“IT’S REALLY IMPORTANT TO GET SOME BASIC BUSINESS TRAINING. YOU’VE GOT TO GET THE BORING STUFF IN PLACE BEFORE YOU HAVE FUN”

fortunate, in that we suddenly had a very captive audience.” Despite big numbers in years one to three, the board were convinced these were because of the closure of Wembley.

“I had to move to Cardiff from Bath, and demonstrate that we hadn’t just got lucky off the back of this audience.” This also stalled the initial ambitious roll-out plan.

“It took six years to convince my board – both investors and friends – that we were ready to roll the product out.” By that time, some of the impetus had been lost slightly to active neighbours, that had all cottoned on to a market ripe for minimalist models.

Still talking of luck, another of Cosmo’s successful ventures is the game of Perudo, a variation of liar’s dice which was born in 1982 at the Lima Gold Club during a rare – but very welcome, as Cosmo can’t play golf – rain break. “Thankfully, the golf got rained off completely, and we kept playing this game, ‘dudo’. I just thought, oh my, this is brilliant.”

I went to the shops to buy a set of cups and dice, when I realised, the game wasn’t marketed in Peru.”

It’s at this point that Cosmo – in his cheeky style – takes time to discuss the origins of the word invent. "I’m credited with inventing Perudo, but I sort of stole it. As I’m sure you know, the word invent comes from the latin venire, which means to find..." Cosmo returned to Peru six years later to investigate the game, its rules and handicrafts, as ethnic wares were apparently all the rage. “I remember, Lady Diana used to wear a lot of Peruvian tank tops.” A travel version (a bag and lid containing the cups and dice) was first sold in the UK in 1989.

He wears his entrepreneurialism very lightly, but in reality, Cosmo has developed expertise in many areas he previously knew very little about. “I sold all three Big Sleep hotels in 2015 to the only man on the planet who would buy all three.”

That twinkle again…

Despite this, he admits that not having formal business knowledge has often worked against him.“My children are both gearing up to do something entrepreneurial, and I am going to insist that they go to business school. Bit dull – but it’s important to get some basic business training, even a three-month crash course. You’ve got to get the boring stuff in place before you have fun.”

Cosmo now lives in Mells (half an

hour from Bath) with his businessowning wife. His father, Jeremy Fry, is the man who founded Rotork engineering and mentored James Dyson himself. Was he inspired or mentored by him? “I wasn’t aware of his endeavours until slightly later, as he didn’t discuss them in the way I do with my children.” Cosmo came to live with Jeremy (at The Royal Crescent) aged 21 in 1978, at around the same time that Jeremy bought, and saved, Bath's Theatre Royal. It was for sale, but was closed at the time. Despite having no prior experience in the sector – like father, like son – Jeremy Fry purchased it to be run as a non-profit-making concern. Once up and running, he gave it to the city as a registered charity (as it still is today). “It was probably because he never liked the theatre and never went there that the venture worked so well,” Cosmo jokes, slightly seriously. “It wasn’t a vanity project. He just got the job done.”

Since 2005, Cosmo has been getting the job done as a member of the Theatre’s board. He was invited to join after fund-raising with and for The Egg (£3 million, no less). “I was flattered and proud.

It’s been a very exciting time, one that’s challenged me to get out of my comfort zone and try something different.” Although he doesn’t strike us as someone with a comfort zone, he's mindful he isn’t as “sparky and attentive” as he used to be.

Cosmo doesn't know what the next big (business) thing is, so we end with the best piece of advice he’s been given. It comes, not from a business luminary, but Goethe. “I think it goes: 'Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it; boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.'

So, just be bold...” n www.bathlifebusinessclub.

FRESH THINKING OVER A FINE LUNCH The Bath Life Business Club brings together a select group of senior business people. It features a leading speaker and a fine two-course lunch at The Royal Crescent Hotel.

The next meeting is on 18 July with Jonathon Stapleton. If you’d like to join, please contact Stephanie Dodd (Stephanie.Dodd@mediaclash.co.uk). These events sell out quickly, so look out for the emails...

The Bath Life Business Club is sponsored by Bishop Fleming

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Freestyle Designs Founder Jayson Godridge reflects on a decade in business and what the future holds for his Bath-based print and signage company

C

elebrating a decade of business in Bath, this January marked the 10th anniversary for printing and signage business Freestyle Designs.

Founded by managing director Jayson Godridge back in 2008, it all began from his spare room shortly after the birth of his first child. Many sleepless nights and long six-day weeks later, they began building up a portfolio of clients from the many amazing small business in the City along with some of Bath’s best organisations. Amongst these early projects included branding for all of the BANES vehicles and developing the signage for most of the schools across Bath. They now continue to service a large proportion of business in Bath and the southwest.

“Whether you are looking to rebrand, start a new business, promote your company and its achievements, or simply advertising an event, our in-house team of sign-makers and designers can provide a full design and application service to ensure that your business looks unique and stands out above your competitors. We provide innovative and creative solutions for all types of signage, print and branding, from single one-off jobs through to large corporate re-brands.

This encompasses everything from plan drawing prints, to banners, hoardings, vehicle wraps, and wallpapers to name a few.

“The experience of our staff combined with investment in state of the art technology sets us apart from any other sign-makers in Bath. There is a team of 11 staff here, all with a proven background in the signage industry. The equipment we have is second to none, with two of the fastest roll-to-roll printers and a large format flatbed UV printer, enabling us to print on a huge range of materials with unbeatable speeds and prices. This is great for our clients, who are looking for quality products in a very short time frame.

“We have also recently invested in an automated flatbed cutter and router, enabling us to streamline production and allow us to create any shape and size on pretty much any media. In the long-run this will also aid us to tap into new markets like packaging and point of sale. In the last 12-18 months alone, we have invested over £100k in the latest technology and equipment, all of which is owned outright, which gives us confidence in knowing that we have been able to re-invest capital into the development of Freestyle Designs.

“In the last couple of years we have been lucky enough to team up with another great Bath-based company, Interaction, who design and build amazing work places.

This partnership has provided a platform for us to showcase our creative side and has given us the opportunity to work on some amazing projects all over the country With 10 years of innovative print and signage solutions now under their belt, Freestyle Designs has grand plans for the future. “We want to continue our growth by taking on another work premises, giving us more space to develop our own creative office space and work environment. We want our workspace to be an interesting, exciting hub that will continue to inspire us to be the best at what we do.” ■

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

What is financial abuse?

Local legal expert HELEN STARKIE explains…

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olicitors who specialise in acting for older or vulnerable clients are trained to notice signs in their client of financial abuse (and, indeed, psychological and physical abuse, but no room to cover those here today).

It is a sad fact that financial abuse is actually very common and that often the abuse is by a family member or ‘friend’. In these cases, there are measures which can be taken to halt the abuse – but how to recognise it?

Well, symptoms may include: ● Deliberate isolation of the person from their friends and family, resulting in the abuser having total control. ● Signatures on cheques etc. which do not resemble the person’s own, or those that are signed when the person cannot write. ● Sudden changes in bank accounts, including unexplained withdrawals of large sums. ● The sudden inclusion of additional names on the person’s bank account. ● Abrupt changes to, or unexpected creation of a Will. ● The sudden appearance of previously uninvolved relatives claiming their right to deal with the person’s affairs or possessions. ● The unexplained transfer of assets to a family member or someone outside the family. ● Numerous unpaid bills, overdue rent or care home bills, when there is someone who is supposed to be paying bills. ● Lack of amenities such as TV, personal grooming items and appropriate clothing that the person should be able to afford. ● The unexplained disappearance of valuables such as art, silverware or jewellery. ● Change in living conditions, lack of heating, clothing or food or inability to pay bills/ unexplained shortage of money.

I should emphasise that the presence of any one or more of these is not positive proof of abuse.

Some may indicate a decline into dementia and a genuine attempt at care by a concerned but perhaps inexpert person. But they are enough to indicate that proper checks should be carried out to ensure that all is as it should be. If you see any of these signs in a person you know, you should take the trouble to report your concerns. Action on Elder Abuse (0808 808 8141) would be a good starting point – even if the person is not in fact elderly, but vulnerable. If you think that you may, yourself, be falling victim to abuse of this kind either ring Action on Elder Abuse or consult a solicitor specialising in this area of law. They will be able to advise you how to stop the problem.

Prevention is better than cure. The appointment

“IT IS A SAD FACT THAT FINANCIAL ABUSE IS ACTUALLY VERY COMMON” of a truly trustworthy Attorney ahead of time will provide protection against financial abuse of this kind.

Another form of financial abuse is the scam.

Again, prevention is better than cure. The Metropolitan Police publishes a list of ten golden rules to avoid falling victim. Here they are: 1. Be suspicious of ‘too good to be true’ offers and deals. There are no guaranteed get rich quick schemes.

2. Do not agree to offers and deals immediately.

Insist on time to obtain independent legal advice before making a decision.

3. Never hand over money or sign anything until you have checked the credentials of the company or individual.

4. Never send money to anyone you do not know or trust, whether in the UK or abroad, or use methods of payment you are not comfortable with.

5. Never give banking or personal details to

anyone you do not know and trust and never disclose your PIN or passwords or lend your bank card to anyone at all.

6. Do not connect by clicking on links provided by e-mail. Always log on to the website directly.

7. Do not rely solely on glowing testimonials provided by the company or individual; find solid independent evidence of their success.

8. Always take independent legal advice if an offer involves money, time or commitment.

9. If you spot a scam or have been scammed, report it and get help. Contact ActionFraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at www.actionfraud. police.uk. Contact local Police if the suspect is known or still in the area.

10. Do not be embarrassed to report a scam.

Because the scammers are cunning and clever, there is no shame in being deceived. By reporting them, you will make it more difficult for them to deceive others. ■

Helen Starkie Solicitor 5 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2PH 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 117

Meet the IFA Your life goals are within reach with the help of these independent financial advisers NAOMI KEITH

BARRY NEWBURY

ASPIRE PARTNERSHIP

MANAGING PARTNER EPOCH WEALTH MANAGEMENT

0117 9303 510; www.aspirellp.co.uk What is the biggest misconception surrounding financial advice?

That financial planning is complicated. We use common sense and years of experience to come up with a straightforward solution tailored to each person we meet.

We want clients to understand what they have, so we are passionate about keeping our advice jargon-free.

How does your work benefit people?

We help clients to have the confidence that they can turn thoughts and ideas into reality and live the life they want.

This includes talking through options that could help them to achieve a feeling of financial freedom.

We work to combine our client’s dreams with the practical financial decisions they need to make into a single cohesive plan. Our approach gives them clarity on their current position and during their lifetime helps them to make informed decisions about what they can do and when they can do it.

01225 487772; www.epochwm.co.uk In what ways do you think your work benefits people?

Some are obvious (like improving returns or reducing tax) but acting as a financial sounding board and becoming a trusted partner to our clients – families, businesses and charities – is often transformational and allows them to better attain their life goals.

What is the biggest misconception surrounding financial advice?

That doing nothing is the safest option. Many believe that “cash is king” but this no longer applies in the current, low interest rate world. Indeed, although your money is generally safe in cash, once inflation is considered, many will have lost in real terms over recent years.

Naomi Keith

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering hiring a financial adviser?

Meet at their office and get a feel for them. If wood panelled walls and pinstripe suits are important to you, there are plenty of options. If young, energetic people giving cutting-edge advice is more your thing, then you should definitely pop in to see us.

What is your favourite part of the job?

Seeing a nervous, confused or exasperated client leave our office with a smile on their face and the knowledge and confidence to take control of their finances.

SIMON EWINGS

Barry Newbury

ANDREW GOODEY

MONAHANS WEALTH MANAGEMENT

BECKFORD JAMES

01225 472 800; www.monahans-wm.co.uk What is your favourite part of the job?

The rules and regulations surrounding financial advice can be complex, which requires a good level of technical knowledge in many different subject areas. I thoroughly enjoy the challenge of obtaining the technical knowledge, keeping it up to date, and then applying that knowledge to the many different client scenarios.

What advice would you give to anyone considering being a financial advisor as a career?

It can be an incredibly rewarding career in lots of ways, but be prepared to never stop learning. Most of all, learn to really listen and understand your clients needs and circumstances, since that should form the basis of your advice.

What was your very first job?

Other than a paper-round, when I was in my late ‘teens the parents of a good friend of mine owned a nice little restaurant in Devon where I was a waiter for a few years when home from uni. I’ve never worked so hard in my life. I remember I’d get home absolutely shattered from a day on my feet and spend my weeks’ wages in one good night out – definitely not good financial management!

Whilst I cannot say I enjoyed clearing tables, I thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the different customers - a skill that set me up well I guess as a financial adviser!

118 MEDIACLASH.CO.UK

01225 437600; www.beckfordjames.com What is your favourite part of the job?

When a client realises that the financial planning constructed years earlier has paved the way for the financial independence they had hoped for.

Simon Ewings APFS Chartered Financial Planner

How important is retirement planning?

Crucial. The UK population is continuing to grow and by 2025 it is estimated that 20% will be over the age of 65.

This will place additional pressures on the state pension. It is essential therefore to make suitable retirement plans to provide a sustainable long-term income stream and provide peace of mind and financial independence in retirement.

What do you like most about working in Bath?

Bath offers a great network of like-minded professionals in both law and accounting. Being able to collaborate with other disciplines ensures the client is given the best possible outcome.

Andrew Goodey

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering hiring a financial advisor?

They should be independent (able to advise in all areas of financial planning), have experience in the area that you require advice on, be suitably qualified, ideally chartered, but critically it is important to choose a financial planner who you trust and can build a long standing relationship with.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

DAVID MAYNE

JONOTHAN MCCOLGAN

COMBINED FINANCIAL STRATEGIES LTD 01225 471 462; www.cfsorg.com What do you specialise in?

I am an independent and chartered financial planner that helps clients with every aspect of their financial affairs, covering investments, retirement and tax planning. We find that most of our clients have a particular focus on when and how they can afford to retire.

How important is retirement planning?

It is the single most important part of everyone’s financial plan, because everyone will have to stop working at some point, and then they will have to survive for the rest of their life on what they have saved.

Jonothan McColgan

In what ways do you think your work benefits people?

Any retirement plan takes time, hard work and financial sacrifices from our clients. But it is fantastic when we finally sit down, and I can tell them that they no longer need to work and can just focus on doing what is really important to them.

PREMIER FINANCIAL; 01225 581222; www.premfp.com How has financial advice changed in the last few years?

Like most industries financial services have been impacted by advances in technology. As a company we have embraced and invested heavily in the latest software packages, which enable us to thoroughly review our clients circumstances and provide detailed analysis, which can then be used to build strategic financial plans.

What have been your career highlights?

Setting up Premier Financial Planning is definitely one of my career highlights. Over the past eight years I have built a fantastic team around me. Our company remains small enough to provide an individual and personal service, yet large enough to provide specialist financial planning advice.

What is your favourite part of the job?

Without question the best part of my job is the clients that I work with. I have always focussed on long-term client relationships and have made some great friends along the way!

What professional accomplishment has made you proudest?

It has been a really exciting few years as I have been recognised as one of the top financial planners in the country; winning 17 national awards across 2015, 2016 & 2017. In particular 2016 was an incredible year, winning Financial Adviser of the Year at the Growth Investor Awards and Retirement and Later Life Specialist of the Year at the Personal Finance Awards.

David Mayne

ALISON DAVIS

In what ways do you think your work benefits people?

Clients come to me because they are looking for friendly, unbiased, professional guidance. The high tempo of modern day life leaves little opportunity to think about long term goals. Part of my role is to get clients thinking about what they want to achieve and then help them to formulate coherent, long-term strategies, which are monitored and reviewed on a regular basis.

CHARTERED FINANCIAL PLANNER, MULBERRY WEALTH MANAGEMENT

JASON KNOWLES

07496 689309; www.alisondavisfinancial.co.uk What have been your career highlights?

From a qualification point of view being chartered is a lovely achievement to have, and promotes the dedication I have to the role. However, my main highlight was starting my own franchise in July 2017 having worked as a Chartered Financial Planner for 10 years. Having my own business allows me to promote my ethos and proposition of how financial planning should be done. It’s been a very liberating experience and the support I have had from the small business community in Bath has been inspiring.

01225 613560; www.staddenforbes.com What is your favourite part of the job?

Helping people not to worry about the future, empowering them through investment and financial modelling and encouraging people to enjoy their retirement. I am fascinated by the psychology around investing, and I am a keen advocate of financial advice in schools. I have spoken in schools and have been petitioning to government with the goal of financial planning being a core part of school curriculum.

SENIOR WEALTH MANAGER, STADDEN FORBES

Alison Davis

How has financial advice changed in the last few years?

We are a chartered firm and more advisers are headed that way. There has been a squeeze on charges. Even though we are a boutique (15 of us in Bath and Belgravia), we are UK and US regulated; advisors are having to demonstrate that they are capable of looking after international clients more than ever, and saying ‘I am sorry, but we cannot help with that’, is simply not good enough anymore.

Can you share your plans for the future?

My plans for the future are to build on the initial success of my franchise business in Bath and surrounding areas.

Our industry sadly is dominated by the large corporate companies, who have a rigid proposition that all clients fall into, which makes it easier to service and review. My service is fully independent and bespoke to each client.

In what ways do you think your work benefits people?

I have clients whose lives have been turned around in ways they could never have expected by a clear, concise plan; retirement brought forward, dream homes purchased and families facing the most difficult health situations calmed by the knowledge all the finances are taken care of now and in difficult times ahead.

Jason Knowles

What is the biggest misconception surrounding financial advice?

That ‘I do not need financial advice’; I am yet to come across someone who has everything in order and can clearly articulate their financial life strategy. Secondly, that ‘I do not have enough assets to need advice.’ IFAs tend to break even at 80k of assets under management, but that shouldn’t stop someone from seeking advice. I have helped people because they have asked me. Goodwill goes far. n MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 119

LET THERE BE LIGHT Brodie and Nicola McAllister’s Lansdown home keeps Georgian proportions, but everything else about it is unashamedly modern

Words by Matt Bielby Pictures by Chris Auckland 120 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

RESIDENCE

Y

ou may think of Bath’s northern slopes as rows of terraces, crescents and semidetached Georgian villas, but look closely and you’ll find more variety. Take the road on which landscape architect Brodie McAllister and his wife Nicola, a doctor, have built this striking family home. It’s just off Lansdown, but there’s a real mix here, including their two-storey residence of clay brick, zinc and glass.

“We’ve lived in Bath for 14 years,” Brodie says, “but I’ve always been set on a new build. We looked for a suitable site within a mile of the city centre for years, but wanted views, parking, easy access to the countryside, and a quiet location with a reasonably big garden, too.”

Didn’t want much, then!

“No, it wasn’t easy. We needed a bad property, worthy of demolition – but on a good plot.”

The place they found was a bland 1950s house in 0.4 acres of mature garden. “My brother, Rod, is an architect,” Brodie says. “So I got him to do a feasibility study for extending the existing house, before deciding on a new build instead. Once we’d come up with a concept, local architect CaSA tweaked it and developed the detail, I did the design for the bathrooms, and Donovan Construction came on board as builders.”

What was your vision, Brodie?

It needed to be a family home for us and our two teenage kids, one that could easily accommodate guests and parties. It stands in roughly the same position as the previous house, but it’s cross-shaped in plan, which allowed us to expand the floor area while pulling the corners away from the side boundaries. This created four little semi-courtyards at the corners. The ceilings are high, and it’s flooded with light thanks to large sliding glass doors that open the front and back to the landscape.

And roof lights pull in yet more light down the stairwell.

The side elevations, though, have minimal windows to preserve privacy.

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RESIDENCE So it’s very modern, but it actually has surprisingly classical proportions…

You’re right. Downstairs we wanted a generous main space – which serves as kitchen, dining room and living room – as well as a separate boot room, study, loo, utility room and entrance lobby. Upstairs it’s more cellular.

Meaning?

Separate rooms! There’s a master bedroom with en suite and walk-through wardrobe, plus a linen cupboard, two further bathrooms and four other bedrooms – including one we’re using as a music space. Despite all the glass, it’s very warm – we’re well aware of how cold Georgian houses can be – and A-rated on the EPC energy chart.

(Most Georgian houses are no more than E.) This is achieved through triple glazing, the maximum insulation depth in a factory-made timber frame, and a heat recovery ventilation system.

Upstairs sees more traditional rooms around a large stairwell and landing, with light flooding in from above

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Sounds very high tech...

But not, I hope, at the expense of character. We’ve used maple wood extensively for cabinets and stairs, and there are features like a wood-burning stove, too – it all softens the look. Outside, we retained the best of what was there – the fruit trees, for instance – and supplemented it with more planting and a wildflower meadow.

How long did it all take?

From moving out of the original house to moving into the new one was exactly a year. It was done quickly but to a high standard, while overcoming various hurdles – like the local bats. Choosing a factory-made timber frame, which came with insulation and electric ducting in place, meant we could speed up construction of the shell.

Bats, you say?

There was perceived potential for bats to use the roof space of the existing house – a hurdle we hadn’t expected. As an alternative, we’ve provided a large, heavy bat box on one of our trees, but – I fear – the local blue tits are getting most out of it.

RESIDENCE

Š L AUREN SCOT T

Brodie stands by his large front door. Many of the doors are ceiling height inside, while a much-loved painting is visible through glass as you approach the house

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RESIDENCE

The yellow rug and feature wall bring real warmth to the large, open-plan ground floor, with the living room space designed around the dimensions of these sofas

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

Inside, it’s not as much of n clean, white ‘art gallery’ as some architect-designed new builds are…

Nicola and I were keen that it wasn’t just white walls throughout, and the architect suggested maple for the stairs and landing, while I chose slate for the downstairs flooring and running outside to the terraces. We’d worked with a cabinet maker – Steve from CDIW up at Dyrham – to design a kitchen and bespoke storage throughout. To add a little rawness, we commissioned polished concrete work surfaces from Fluid Stone in North Wales. It’s mostly quite neutral, with a seamless feel – doors in the kitchen fold out to reveal hidden baking and breakfast cupboards, for instance – though Steve also created a modern take on the built-in Georgian dresser. Oh, and there are spherical Flos Glo glass pendant lights above the dining table.

What about the furniture?

The main sofas we already had, as well as the two seascape paintings by Cornish artist Ray Atkins. (We actually planned the entrance hall around the bigger one, which you can see as you approach the house.) And we wanted a splash of colour downstairs, so commissioned a large tufted wool rug in a warm yellow from India, then matched it to a yellow wall in the study beyond. There are oak elements here, too – the large front door, and the lobby furniture – and a few small antique pieces.

Any favourite Bath shops you used?

Scandinavian cushions, rugs and chairs came from Shannon, and a bespoke cushion in our walk-through wardrobe is from Rossiters. We went to Mendip Fireplaces for the Danish stove, Hay on Milsom Street for outdoor furniture, and Prior Park Nursery for plants, like the large bamboos. We often get in flowers from Myrtle Mee, too.

What do you love about it?

Overall? The light flooding in from the atrium skylight, the open connection on the ground floor between outside and in, and how socially interactive the whole space is.

The walk-through wardrobe is a nice luxury, too, and I’m very fond of the small wildflower meadow at the front.

So would you do it again?

Yes, in theory – though Nicola is in no hurry. It wasn’t the living hell that some describe, or that you see on Grand Designs, though – so when the boys leave home, I’d be keen to try another, perhaps on a cliff-top somewhere.

And I’d make it even more daring.

Got an amazing Bath home? Want it to feature in Residence? Contact lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 125

Quality ooring and carpets at competitive prices

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DESIGNING GREAT GARDENS FOR YOU

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“Chesneys new Barbecue Heater is brilliant. It’s the most versatile cooking appliance I’ve ever used” – James Martin Visit us to view the range or call: Mendip Fireplaces (Bath) Monkton Combe Mill, Monkton Combe, Bath, BA2 7HD. 01225 722706 info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk | www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

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

IN BATH

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A Room of One’s Own

Ready to create the house of your dreams? We ask the experts to share some of their recent restorations in and around Bath, the challenges of restoring listed buildings, and how you can make real changes to the value and enjoyment of your home.

By Lauren Scott 128 I Bath LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Donovan Construction restores homes back to their former glory

RESTORATION ICONIC HOUSE RESTORATION DONOVAN CONSTRUCTION James Donovan, director

What have you been working on recently?

A project right in the middle of Bath in the final throws of its restoration – we are finishing off restoring and converting Tilley’s Bistro on North Parade Passage into a boutique hotel. In the local area, we have restored The Cedars in Beckington for Bath architect Simon Morray-Jones, and Tory House in Bradford on Avon for Edward Checkley Conservation Architects. We’re also turning Charmydown Barns (two farm labourers cottages) into a brand new home.

Sounds busy. Do you mainly work directly with architects?

Typically an architect appoints us, and most of our clients already have a good idea of what they want. However, with restorative works, it’s a slightly different, and invariably as the buildings unfold themselves as the initial stripping-out works are undertaken, the vision changes to work with the buildings features and the client’s requirements.

Are you involved are you with the interior design, too?

Mark (managing director) and I oversee all aspects of the projects.

The design element has usually already been generated (by a skilled designer), but we’ll carry it out with our full team of finishers, from joiners, masons, plasterers, decorators and electricians.

Bath must be an amazing place to restore and renovate?

It certainly is. I have always have always lived in the area, but we as a company have enjoyed focusing our work around Bath for 25 years. Every project presents a challenge, as you peel back the layers of previous works prior to piecing it all back together, to restore the buildings to their former glory.

AARON EVANS ARCHITECTS Kevin Murphy, director

What do you specialise in?

Blucoat House restored into apartments by Aaron Evans Architects

H

aving recently climbed aboard Bath’s property ladder – negotiating roof leaks, bespoke shelving, kitchen improvements and (when I realised I was getting a little ahead of my bank balance) some hand-painted furniture jobs along the way – you’ll notice this feature doesn’t stick to one theme. Rather than just focus on a handful of illustrious multi-mullion pound period makeovers or just sticking with conversions and extensions, we’ve cast the net wide to cover a bit of everything. That is, everything you can and could do to make improvements to a property in Bath. So, whether it’s developing an old shell from scratch, or something as simple as painting an old piece of furniture, meet the local developers, architects, carpenters, shop owners and slide makers (yes, really) who will give you some ideas for rejuvenating your own spaces…

“Sometimes, change can be a good thing... breathing new life into old, seemingly out-dated buildings”

The external repair of historic building fabric through to full internal refurbishment, alteration, extension and fit-out. We also design bespoke cabinetry, shelving and wardrobes to complement the building interiors, where off-the-peg furniture and fittings don’t make the grade.

In what ways can a property be restored?

Restoration comprises the sympathetic repair of a building to its original condition and decorative splendour. In less sensitive (and listed) cases there’s more freedom to be creative with any structural alterations or extensions, as well as the potential to introduce exciting internal features such as a glass staircase or floor, as an imaginative interior.

Are period properties more restrictive?

As a practice, we have been working with listed buildings for 40 years.

One of our first commissions was the restoration of the Countess of Huntingdon’s Chapel (now the Museum of Bath Architecture) for the Bath Preservation Trust. Our extensive experience has given us a unique approach to delivering successful listed building consents.

Sometimes, change can be a good thing... breathing new life into old, seemingly out-dated buildings.

Tell us more about a recent project in Bath…

We’re currently completing the alteration and refurbishment of Chandos House in Westgate Buildings, Bath, a Grade-II listed building built by John Wood the Elder in 1730. We also recently restored and developed Bluecoat House, a former school, opposite the Theatre Royal Bath into four apartments and a restaurant (now Giggling Squid), which included the restoration of its iconic clock tower.

Bath must be an amazing place for you to work?

We are blessed by a wealth of historic buildings, each presenting its

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RESTORATION

RIGHT, 90 years since it was established, Hawker Joinery still hand-crafts in Bath; ABOVE, Their bespoke windows in situ

own unique challenge. We enjoy taking on complex cases in Bath that require innovative thinking, and are prepared to justify our proposals, engage early with the powers that be and appoint a suitably experienced design team.

line of work is to replace windows and doors. Our skilled craftsmen are capable of matching a listed building window where even the discerning would not be able to tell that it was not the original. For unlisted buildings, our flexibility can produce something cutting edge.

Do most people come to you with a clear vision?

What else do you craft?

Most clients now do know what they ‘like’ and ‘dislike’ through exposure to high-quality design in the media, whether on TV or in publications. They increasingly seek to express themselves through the creation of their own mood boards on sites like Pinterest, even if they don’t know how to deliver it. This is where our knowledge and experience comes in…

NEWMANS OF BATH Roland Newman, director What do you specialise in?

Building conservation and high-quality renovations and extensions.

We also have our own shop, which has vast experience in all types of joinery but specialises in period woodcraft.

What have you been working on recently?

We completely refurbished a Victorian house in Henrietta Street – converting it from bedsits to a single house – and a Mews house in Raby Place – a total refurbishment and a rear extension. We are currently renovating the Old Vicarage on Wellsway and building an extension to St Andrews Church in Castle Combe.

How could we add value and space to our home?

A loft conversion or extension is highly likely to increase the value of a house, but more importantly (in our opinion) offers increased scope for the quality of living and modern family life. Renovating a basement can transform a gloomily second rate and often under utilised space.

JOINERY AND CARPENTRY HAWKER JOINERY

Mitchell Thomas, commercial director

How does Hawker Joinery restore homes?

Our skilled team use their expertise to restore properties by refreshing the woodwork and give the house an extended life. Our most popular

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

We specialise in staircases, which we believe should be the centrepiece of a home. Restoring staircases doesn’t only improve their safety, but it’s also the first thing you see in many houses when you enter – it can be made made into a feature that’s visually enjoyed by all.

We love your built-in storage...

Restoring properties also involves making the most out of space. Our team can design, create and install made to measure alcove units to suit any opening, which solves storage issues and compliments a room.

Why do you love being in Bath?

Properties have been built with the finest detail and hold a lot of history, which makes restoring them a privilege, particularly knowing that we are inputting into the future beauty of Bath. We thrive off the challenge to finesse the detail in each component of a restoration project.

Your restoration skills can be enjoyed for years to come, then?

We predominantly use Accoya wood, which is guaranteed for 50 years.

The simplest of joinery changes can make a significant difference.

OLIVER HAZAEL/HAZAEL HOMES Ruby Hazael, after sales

Tell us more about Oliver Hazael...

Our bespoke fitted carpentry services mainly create more storage, including wardrobes, alcove units, book shelves, libraries, cupboards, under-stairs storage, home offices and desk spaces. However we also offer all sorts of renovation services (with Hazael Homes) including plastering, decorating, kitchens and bathrooms, creating knock-

“Restoring properties also involves making the most out of space”

TOPS

Countertops Ltd a Bath-based company, founded in 1978 Countertops manufacture and design formica furniture and worktops any colour, any shape and any size

RESTORATION throughs to open up spaces, and general carpentry; skirting boards, architraves, doors, wooden flooring and wood panelling.

How long have you been in Bath?

We have lived and worked here for 12 years and love it. The beautiful architecture in the centre keeps us motivated and inspired. Recreating old Georgian and Victorian cabinetry is always very pleasing, but we also really enjoy the contemporary, minimal and well-designed projects that are more likely to happen in homes on the peripheries of the city.

Any standout local projects you’ve worked on?

It’s so difficult to choose. We recently created a 20 square metre dressing room in a Georgian house in Widcombe with three walls of traditional style panelled wardrobes painted in a beautiful Farrow & Ball colour. We have also just completed the renovation of a large 1930s house in Freshford, including adding a 40 square metre timber framed extension with Velfac windows.

Why are your (gorgeous) wood wardrobes so popular?

Everyone always needs more storage. Any good-quality bespoke storage will always add value to your home and obviously help reduce clutter. What’s not to like?

Do clients come to you with ideas?

We have worked for a lot of architects and creative people who have very clear ideas on what they would like, but more often than not, we are called in to help with design and ideas. Sometimes it can be very daunting for people to decide what will work best in a space. We have lots of experience, though, and photos of past projects to help people choose the best way forward.

DO IT YOURSELF

ANN-MARIE JAMES, DIRECTOR, ROSSITERS OF BATH Furniture restoration workshops www.rossitersofbath.com We are very excited to be the Bath stockists for Annie Sloan’s fantastic range of chalk paints. They are simple to use and you can transform a very ordinary piece of furniture into something very beautiful using a variety of effects.

Our workshops provide inspiration and teach people how to get the very best results with Annie’s paints, waxes and stencils. Once you start you won’t want to stop. You can paint practically anything from floors and staircases to tables, chairs and cabinets.

Next course: 30 June, 10am – 4pm Cost: The course is £95 (includes tea, coffee, cake, and all materials) VANESSA SAYCE, OWNER, MARMALADE HOUSE Lifestyle courses www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk Our workshops in Kelston teach you how to paint and update bespoke furniture to professional standards, and enable you to have the skills to completely transform dated furniture and make it both contemporary and beautiful again. Students get real hands-on practical experience of how to use chalkpaint, colour and style to enhance their homes themselves – and have fun.

The new course ‘Colour Your Home’ is a practical day of looking at colour and how it can work within the home, with time spent mood-boarding, using fabrics and building up a scheme of your own to take away. These are perfect for anyone looking to design a room, or revamp an existing space.

Next date: Check the website Cost: £145 for a full day (including a tasty lunch)

© POLLY TOOTAL

‘Star Rider’ by SplinterWorks – just one stunner in their portfolio of ambitious yet functional sculptures

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

RIGHT, The Royal Crescent’s Montagu Bar in metallics, dusted with a pewter ANKA coating; ABOVE, Aged Bronze is just one of hundreds of finishes ANKA can magic up

FAR OUT AND FANTASTICAL ANKA METAL COATINGS AND BESPOKE FURNITURE

polystyrene, paper, brickwork, fabric, metal, ceramics, wood and many others. We can assist in all aspects of a commission, including interior and exterior designers, architecture, sculpture and furniture.

Harry Clarke, business and development manager

SPLINTERWORKS

ANKA works with the leading liquid metal technologies to creates bespoke interior and exterior finishes. We coat a wide range of surfaces with a solid veneer of metal, and the finished product can be polished, buffed or brushed with an incredible range of patinas and washes.

We are sculptural furniture designers that aim to create work that is engaging, inspiring and a delight to use. We create one-off commissions including kitchens and home workspaces as well as a portfolio of pioneering designs which include: The Hammock Bath, the levitating Bodice Rocker lounger chair, the dynamic Dime cabinet, Stiletto desk, and bespoke pool slides that are sculptural highlights for the pool as well as a lot of fun.

What do you specialise in?

Tell us about a unique local project?

We recently partnered with The Bath Piano Shop, and their side-line company 88Keys Studio Bath. For 88Keys, we have been finishing grand and upright pianos in our metal finishes. So, rather than a gloss black piano like everyone has, you can now have real gold or silver finished pianos. We can also coat bespoke furniture pieces, such as dining tables, kitchen worktops and wardrobes.

Miles Hartwell, co-founder

Tell us more about SplinterWorks...

We want one of those slides... do you also do full renovations?

We have worked on whole spaces, as well as designing individual pieces of custom furniture for the space that has been designed by the client, architect or interior designer.

We’re sure we’ve seen your work somewhere else in Bath…

What spaces of yours might we have seen in Bath?

Do you refresh whole interiors as well as one-off pieces?

Your pieces probably wouldn’t be seen in an “everyday” restoration. What types of clients do you work with?

We finished the Montagu Bar at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa around six years ago in ‘Windy Pewter’. We did the bar top and front, and the glass drink surrounds in the background, on site while the area was under refurbishment. That bar was a great project for us as it was our first local job.

Our entire product range can be applied to a variety of substrates, including MDF, plaster, plasterboard, concrete, fibreglass, glass, plastic,

“We work with clients who want something different, something that speaks to them...”

We worked on an exciting local project, creating a kitchen, bedrooms and a study for a contemporary RIBA-nominated sustainable house on Lansdowne Hill. We created a kitchen, Dime cabinets and designed bespoke storage for a tithe barn near Bristol. We also just installed a Waha Slide and sun loungers for a weekend retreat in the local area.

All our designs are made to last and become antiques of the future that will be passed down through generations. We work with clients who want something different, something that speaks to them, and is a considered and timeless design that brings them joy.

Do they come to you with their own designs?

We love to speak with clients about all their ideas and requirements, and then translate these into something beautiful for the space and inspiring for them personally.

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RESTORATION

DIRECTORY Our local businesses are ready to help with all your restoration needs ARCHITECTS

Aaron Evans Architects 3 Gay St, Bath, 01225 466234; www.aaronevans.com DKA Bath The Malthouse, 17-20 Sydney Buildings, Bath 01225 465701 www.dka.co.uk

BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION AND JOINERY Banisters of Bath 01225 663029; www.banistersofbath.com

Bath Plasterwork 31 Lower Bristol Road, Green Park, Bath 01225 442661; www.bathplasterwork.co.uk Bath Stonemasons 07968 697091; www.bathstonemasons. co.uk CDAB Design and Build 7 Paul St, Shepton Mallet; 03301 233326/ 07483 165577 Donovan Construction Lucena House Shaw Village Centre, Ramleaze Dr, Shaw, Swindon; 01793 674874; www. donovanconstruction.co.uk DR Vowles and Son Upper Weston Farm, Weston Bath; 01225 425232 www.drvowlesandson.co.uk HJ Paradise and Sons Royal Crescent Lane, Julian Road, Bath 01225 425140 www.hjparadise.co.uk

Hawker Joinery Northend, Batheaston, Bath; 01225 858233; www.hawker-joinery.co.uk Norton Masonry 38 Long Barnaby, Midsomer Norton, Radstock; 01761 419422; www.nortonmasonryltd. co.uk Sovereign Damp Proofing 01249 716161; www.sovereigndpc.co.uk

BATHROOMS

Bathrooms at No 5 12a Trim Street, Bath; 01225 308060; www.bathbathrooms.com Ripples Chelsea House, London Road, Bath; 01225 447971; www.ripples.ltd.uk Total Bathrooms Brassmill Lane Trading Estate, Bath; 01225 462727; www.totalbathrooms.co.uk

FIREPLACES

Mendip Fireplaces The Old Mill, Mill Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath 01225 722706 www.mendipfire placesbath.co.uk

FLOORING AND CARPETS

Bath Contract Flooring 4 Kingsmead Square, Bath; 01225 471888; www.bathcontractflooring. co.uk Boniti Dunsdon Road, West Littleton Road, Chippenham; 01225 89200; www.boniti.com

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

Broadleaf Timber 134-136 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 463464; www.broadleaftimber.com Capitol Carpets of Bath 120-122 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 333341; www.thecarpet.co.uk Frith Rugs Unit 10, Shield Retail Park, Filton, Bristol; 01745 584404; www.frithrugs.co.uk Haliden Oriental Carpets 98 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 469240; www.haliden.com Interior Harmony Flooring 5A Chelsea Road, Bath; 01225 483818; www.interiorharmony. co.uk Mandarin Stone 15 – 16 Broad Street Bath; 01225 460033; www.mandarinstone.com Miety Stone Hillmans Transport Depot Bridge, Chelwood, Bristol; 01275 333589; www.mietystone.co.uk Oriental Rugs of Bath 1 Hallatrow Business Park Wells Road, Hallatrow; 01761 451764; www.oriental rugsofbath.com

Tile & Flooring Bath 1 Mile End, London Road West, Bath; 01225 310561; www.tileandflooring.co.uk Gardens and Exteriors The Hegarty Webber Partnership 01934 853273; www.hegartywebber partnership.com The Lacock Planter 01249 652139; www.thelacockplanter. co.uk Woodhouse & Law 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath; 01225 428072; www.woodhouseandlaw. co.uk

HARDWARE AND DIY

Langbridge Hardware 4-6 Lambridge Buildings, Larkhall, Bath; 01225 313848; www.langbridge.co.uk

KITCHENS

The Bath Kitchen Company 22 Hensley Road, Bath; 01225 312003; www.bathkitchencompany. co.uk Ben Argent Design 01225 448330; www.benargentdesign.com Hobsons Choice London Road, Bath; 01225 433511; www.hobsons choice.uk.com Leekes Beanacre Park, Melksham; 0845 050 8240; www.leekes.co.uk Schmidt Bath 1 Park Road, Bath; 01225 337276; www.home-design. schmidt/en-gb Westside Design Lansdown Road, Bath; 01225 864260; www.westsidedesign.co.uk

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Nook of Bath 07733 102671 www.nookofbath.co.uk

Prior and Company 01249 782898; www.priorandcompany. com;

RADIATORS

House of Radiators 22 Wellsway, Bath 01225 424199; www.houseofradiators. co.uk

ROOFING

Aqua Fortis 01225 285500; www.roofersbath.com Marden Roofing 01249 814204; www.mardenroofing.co.uk Youngs Roofing 01225 421499; www.youngsroofingbath. co.uk

WINDOWS

Storm Windows 01384 636365; www.stormwindows.co.uk;

WORKTOPS AND SURFACES

Countertops Unit 4/5, Lymore Gardens, Oldfield Park, Bath; 01225 424467; www.counter-tops.co.uk Hobbs Marble & Granite Radstock Road Midsomer Norton; 01761 412934; www.hobbsmarble andgranite.co.uk The Marble Works of Bath Locksbrook Yard, Upper Bristol Road, Bath; 01225 780062; www.marbleworksofbath. com

QUA LI T Y | H ER I TAGE | PASSION

01225 425140

Westside Design

Est.1949

www.hjparadise.co.uk

Beautiful bespoke contemporary kitchens designed + manufactured in our Bath workshop info@westsidedesign.co.uk | www.westsidedesign.co.uk

BATH PLASTERWORK

We offer a wide selection of cornices, ceiling roses, corbels. Including matching existing original plaster mouldings and traditional lath & plaster.

Workshop: 35 Green Park Mews BA1 1JD | Showroom: 31 Victoria Buildings BA2 3EH

Tel: 01225 442661 | www.bathplasterwork.co.uk

CDAB

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

DESIGN & BUILD CONTRACTORS LTD

T: 03301 233326 / 07483 165577 email: cdabltd@gmail.com 7 Paul Street, Shepton Mallett, BA4 5LD

00 Over 1ors t a i rad lay p on dis

Our designer radiators produce more than just warmth, they radiate value, quality and style, raising the aesthetic profile of any living room, kitchen, bedroom or bathroom.

Did you know we also offer home heat requirement surveys?

Contact us on 01225 424199 to find out more.

22 Wellsway, Bear Flat, Bath BA2 2AA sales@houseofradiators.co.uk | www.houseofradiators.co.uk

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

Specialists in Natural Stone Paving and More

Flagstones, Cobbles, Copings and Setts Sandstone, Limestone, Granite Slate And Travertine ß Internal or External ß Civil or Domestic ß Open 6 Days a Week ß Helpful Advice ß Large Selection of Stock

New Season stock now available

Tel: 01275 333589 or 07872 665602 Or Email sales@mietystone.co.uk Website: www.mietystone.co.uk

Miety Stone Limited Hillmans Transport Depot, Chelwood Bridge, Chelwood, Bristol, BS39 4NJ

• Domestic and commercial roofing specialists • Covering Bath, Bristol and the South West • Trading since 1985 Tel: 01225 421499 Email: mail@youngsroofing.co.uk www.youngsroofingbath.co.uk Braysdown Lodge, Woodborough, Peasedown St John, Bath BA2 8LN

SH OP COFF OP EE EN DA ILY

BB

Banisters of Bath Specialists in the conservation and restoration of wooden banisters.

From small missing pieces to a full restoration project. We can restore your handrail and French polish it to a very high standard in keeping with your home.

Call or email for a free quote: Christopher Cole ~ 07890 824042 chriscole1@sky.com www.banistersofbath.com

SOFT FURNISHING SERVICE Including: Curtains, bespoke bedding, bespoke head boards, Commercial projects. We have our own local curtain making workrooms, and facilities to provide clients with a full design service.

SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE WITH...

Our suppliers are: Romo, Harlequin, William Yeoward, Sanderson, Casadeco, Wilman, Villa Nova, GP & J Baker, Marvic, Warwick, Blendworth, Anna French, Thaibut, The Real Paintbox Co., Lewis & Wood, James Brindley.

UPHOLSTERY SERVICE If you have a favourite sofa or chair in need of refurbishment, we can also provide an upholstering service.

WE PROVIDE

The Home Service Home Management for Busy Professionals

• FREE Measuring Service

• Fabrics and Wallpapers

• Room Design with Mood Boards

• Fitting Service for Poles and Tracks

• CAD Plans and Elevations

• Blinds - Roller Vertical - Skylight

• Lighting, Lamps and Shades

• Carpets and Wood Flooring

• Bespoke Curtains and Blinds

• Upholstery Service

T: 01249 716445 / 01249 714833 E: perfectrooms@btconnect.com W: www.perfectrooms.co.uk

REGULAR HELP OR ONE OFF PROJECTS Your ‘to do’ list cleared Prepare your home for sale, rental or AirBnB Relocation planning and full support Coordinate refurbishment Help with home organisation Comprehensive “Black Book”

BESPOKE • FLEXIBLE • AFFORDABLE

No task is too great or too little @ AMB@thehome-service.co.uk ( 01225 685111 www.thehome-service.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

MEET THE PROPERTY EXPERTS The professional contacts for buying, selling or styling your ideal home

ADVERTISING FEATURE

MARCUS EVANS

CREST NICHOLSON REGENERATION, BATH RIVERSIDE

BEN PURNELL

01225 463517 www.crestnicholson.com/developments/bath-riverside/ What’s your favourite Bath property you have sold?

It has to be Stothert Avenue at Bath Riverside. These were the first homes we sold, with their clean lines, modern architecture and steps up to the front doors, and the traditional features of Bath in mind. It’s where it all started. More recently it has to be Royal View and Sovereign Point. With their curved design, central atrium and waterside location they are unlike anything ever seen before in Bath.

01225 833899 www.tyningsbath.com

TYNINGS

What key bit of advice would you give to a buyer?

Register with as many agents as you can that sell in your desired area. Don’t just email them through portals though, phone them regularly and meet them in person to build up a relationship. This way you are more likely to find out about property that could be coming up in the future and be first in line to view.

What advice do you give to clients looking to sell?

Present your house as best you can. We always like to describe a property as ‘immaculately presented’ and if it is you are more likely to be looking at a quick sale. Carry out all remedial work that you know of and ensure the boiler service is up to date. ‘When was the boiler serviced?’ is probably the most common question that we get asked.

Marcus Evans

What advice would you give someone searching for the ideal home?

Just pop in and have a chat. We’re here to help and many people who haven’t been to Bath Riverside will be surprised by the transformation.

What do you anticipate for the Bath property market over the next 12 months?

The future of new build properties in Bath looks healthy and bright, where we continue to see a high demand from downsizers looking to move into lower maintenance dwellings and first time buyers wanting to buy their first property. New legislation also means all properties coming to the market either to be sold or rented will need to meet new energy performance guidelines.

What do you love most about working in property?

At TYNINGS we specialise in matching people to property and there is nothing more rewarding than handing over the keys to someone’s dream home.

Aside from this, every day is different, presenting new challenges on an almost hourly basis.

Ben Purnell

STEPHEN PILE

RICHARD PEARCE

FUTURE LAND

CEO, TCN 020 7737 7376; www.tcnuk.co.uk What area do you specialise in?

TCN regenerates unloved buildings, creates surprising places and manages vibrant communities. Often these are workspaces in awesome cities. We are a property company with a real emphasis on user experience and long term involvement.

07787 515899 www.futureland.co.uk What changes have you seen in land buying in recent years?

There has been a distinct shift in the sites that house builders look to acquire. Most Plc companies now only consider sites of at least 80 units, which typically include a 25 per cent (or more) affordable housing contribution. Private companies are now taking up the balance of smaller sites.

What trends do you predict for 2019?

An increase in the number of SME (small to medium enterprise) house builders buying land and making a contribution to the number of homes delivered.

What do you love most about working in property?

It is a traditional industry which is hard to operate in without following long held ways of doing things. That creates great opportunity to do things differently in an effort to deliver what the modern world is demanding, particularly when it comes to SME’s.

Stephen Pile

What are your plans in Bath over the next year?

TCN are in partnership with BANES to deliver Newark Works as part of the Bath Quays South redevelopment.

On completion in 2019, Newark Works will deliver creative, dynamic places for over 50 new companies. Collaboration, flexibility and a vibrant community are key aspects of what we seek to achieve, with lots of fun and inspiring aspects to bring the place to life. Watch this space...

What advice do you have for someone looking to sell their land?

Seek professional and experienced advice on how the land acquisition process works, and identify house builders that will be suited to the specific land/site that could be on offer.

What areas are of interest to developers and home builders?

In Bristol, Bath, and the surrounding towns and villages, developers continue to actively seek potential development land due to the demographics, infrastructure and centres of employment.

142 MEDIACLASH.CO.UK

Richard Pearce

What is your favourite part of the job?

The beginning and the end. I love coming up with the strategy, vision and creative ideas, and then seeing it come together and fill up with energetic and passionate companies.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

RUPERT ALLSOP

ANNA FAIRMAN

01225 747269; www.carterjonas.co.uk In what area do you specialise?

I specialise in commercial property (shops, offices and industrial/warehousing). In particular, I advise landlords and tenants on rent reviews and lease renewals, helping my clients achieve the best rent and most favourable lease terms.

What misconceptions do people have about the retail market?

Empty shops receive so much media coverage, but in the national context Bath’s vacancy rate is actually very low.

Certainly there are challenges ahead for retailers, but with its diverse mix of independent shops, Bath is well positioned to overcome these.

07807 999 282; www.savills.co.uk What advice would you give someone looking to buy off-plan?

If a scheme catches your attention, register your interest early on. Most agents will send out brochures to interested parties prior to launch, so you can study the plans and get a good idea of what is on offer and the best fit for you.

Don’t be afraid to ask your agent about the finer details, such as ceiling heights, which may not be included in the brochure. If demand is high, try and be the first in line for a launch, which may mean going that extra mile and arriving super-early.

SENIOR SURVEYOR, CARTER JONAS LLP

DIRECTOR SAVILLS

Rupert Allsop

Best bit of your job?

The best bit for me is completion of a property. You’ve gone through a journey with a buyer who has bought off plan and sometimes waited over a year to see the scheme come to fruition, so completion is a big moment.

How has Bath’s high street changed in the last 12 months?

The rise of the ‘mega bank’. NatWest, Nationwide and Barclays have exploited flexible planning, establishing major high street presence in large shops that were in retail use. Metro Bank are now fitting out having leased a large part of Marks and Spencer’s frontage.

These banks have a combined rent and rates bill exceeding £2m per annum. HSBC are also thought to be considering a consolidation of their branches.

Personally, I think it makes our high street less interesting and is odd in these days of internet banking.

Tell us something about yourselves and why people should contact you?

I’ve worked in residential development for over 15 years and have extensive knowledge of the Bath market, having moved from London nearly ten years ago. My clients vary from national house builders to local, bespoke developers, and I am lucky enough to cover a great range of property, helping buyers find their perfect home, whether this is a studio apartment or a multi million pound penthouse.

Anna Fairman

LIAM RINN

CATRIONA ARCHER

01454 335930 www.cotswoldhomes.co.uk

07823 884945; catrionaarcher.com What area do you specialise in?

Interior styling for the home, holiday rentals, small businesses and property sale.

COTSWOLD HOMES

INTERIOR STYLING

What is different about Cotswold Homes?

We are a local, family-run company and we pride ourselves on individually designing each home and development to meet the needs of today’s home buyers. We give our construction team the time and resources to deliver quality new homes and this has resulted in several NHBC Pride in the Job Awards.

What’s your role at Cotswold Homes?

As Land Director I oversee the Land and Planning department. This involves identifying potential opportunities and testing their viability with colleagues and external consultants. To secure a development, I engage with the local community and negotiate a path through our ever-challenging planning system.

What turns a house into a home?

A home is somewhere we should feel safe and understood, by supporting our practical everyday needs and expressing our personal style. It brings together family, friends and possessions that reflect who we are, past memories and inspiration for the future. It should feel like a hug at the end of the day.

Liam Rinn

What do you love most about working in property?

I enjoy making the most of a home’s existing possessions before suggesting additional updates, saving both money and landfill. Whether downsizing, upsizing or just wanting a fresh look, the fun comes in bringing together the clients’ own style with practical, easy-living ideas. Seeing the positive impact these changes have on my clients or their business is incredibly fulfilling for me.

Where are your current developments?

We have several schemes across the region.

Three are in commuter distance to Bath, located in Corsham, Broughton Gifford and Chipping Sodbury.

I am particularly looking forward to seeing the show home at Broughton Gifford, due to open in August.

Catriona Archer

What misconceptions do people have about Interior stylists?

People often presume that hiring a stylist is expensive. In fact, it can actually save money in the long-term by avoiding unnecessary or unsuitable purchases. Sometimes a one-day consultation is all that’s needed.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

DUNCAN BALL

ANGELA DUNLOP

SYNERGY CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY CONSULTANTS LLP 01225 461704; www.synergyllp.co.uk What do you specialise in?

I am a chartered quantity surveyor with a particular expertise in cost management, for repair and alteration works to buildings of historic or architectural importance.

My clients include a number of the country’s Cathedrals, such as St Paul’s, for whom I am the retained Quantity Surveyor; The National Trust, to whom I provide cost management on its estates, including Dyrham, The Vyne and St Michael’s Mount. In addition, many private individuals and trusts instruct me to provide cost and project management on their private dwellings and buildings, ranging from humble cottages to castles.

SENIOR ASSOCIATE SOLICITOR – HEAD OF CONVEYANCING, WATKINS SOLICITORS 01225 904804; www.watkinssolicitors.co.uk What part of your work do you enjoy?

I love my job. I am very passionate about conveyancing.

I enjoy acting for all different types of people and achieving a successful conclusion. There is nothing better than informing clients that they can move into their dream home.

Tell us something about yourselves and why people should contact you?

We are a local firm serving local people with a wide variety of services. As well as conveyancing, we are able to assist with employment issues, the making of a Will, education matters and relationship breakdowns. We are personable and pride ourselves in putting our clients first. We talk to clients using clear language so that we can help them every step of the way in what can be an important time in their lives.

What is the secret of good conveyancing?

There is no real secret, but there are a number of factors that help. Communication, organisation and the use of technology are as important as legal expertise. A good communicator can help hold the chain together, leading to a successful conclusion. Organisation is crucial, as there are lots of hoops to jump through. We use technology such as case management and the ability to work remotely which helps speed up communication.

Duncan Ball

What misconceptions do people have about quantity surveyors?

Although I provide key financial and procurement advice to my clients and other professionals, many people – including my wife – believe all I do is ‘count bricks.’

What is your favourite Bath property that you have worked on?

Having worked in Bath for almost 30 years, I have been lucky enough to work on some of its most iconic buildings, including Beckford’s Tower, Elton House and the Assembly Rooms. My favourite building though is one of my current projects, Bath Abbey – when the light is right, there is no better place to be than sitting in the Nave, looking up at the magnificent vaulted ceiling.

Angela Dunlop

MARK VINCENT

ALEXA VOISEY

01225 581591; www.mvsurveying .co.uk What do you love most about working in property?

The wide variety of fascinating properties I get to work in, meeting the most interesting people from all sorts of backgrounds and professions. Bath seems to draw in exceptionally talented people.

01225 482 225; www.bathholidayrentals.com What was your first job I grew up in Canada and my first job was waitressing in a restaurant. I started at the age of 13 and during my five years there, 12 hour shifts were very much the norm – from a young age I learned what it meant to work hard. It taught me to juggle many things at one time, as I was also on sports teams, and of course, full-time school. Canada is known for its hospitality and I do feel all the years of working in a hospitality industry has helped me with making Bath Holiday Rentals a success.

MARK VINCENT SURVEYING

What key bit of advice would you give to a client?

Seek out independent estate agents and professionals who have lived and worked locally for a long time, and can give you honest and pragmatic advice about the area you wish to move to. A survey can provide a rational balance to what otherwise might be a costly emotional purchase.

How has the Bath property market changed in the last few years?

There has been a large influx of people moving here from London and the home counties, which has had an impact on prices. The fall in the value of the pound has also led to an increase in ex-pats buying property in the city, helping Bath to remain a buoyant market compared to many.

What part of the work do you particularly enjoy?

Receiving genuine thanks from clients who are grateful for the impartial advice on the property, enabling them to make a reasoned decision on their purchase.

144 MEDIACLASH.CO.UK

BATH HOLIDAY RENTALS

Mark Vincent

What do you specialize in?

Four and five star self-catering properties. When I started the business 12 years ago self-catering had a bad name for itself as there were so many run down properties. I wanted to try to help change the perception by only taking on luxury properties, so insisted all of my properties are four and five star. They get inspected annually by Visit England Tourist Board to ensure they maintain their rating.

Alexa Voisey

What is your favourite part of the job?

Interacting with the guests and seeing so many incredible properties in Bath. I love the people aspect of this business.

Many of our guests return many times to our properties and some have been coming annually since I started in 2006. I love building those relationships. I have also been fortunate to see hundreds of properties in Bath over the years. Bath has the most incredible architecture, making it easy to offer our guests truly fabulous places to stay.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

MARCUS ARUNDELL

ROBIN SQUIRE

01225 484811; homeletsbath.co.uk How has the rental market changed in the last year?

HomeLets continues to engage with a healthy Bath market over the past 12 months, with ever improving levels of property specification on offer from landlords.

On the tenant side, quality professional applicants seeking to live in and around the city are still in good numbers, with student demand being particularly robust.

What makes you different from other letting agents?

We are wholly independent and a family run business, striving to deliver the very best and most comprehensive service to all our clients. Having been based in Bath since 1992 we are fortunate enough to employ a highly experienced and knowledgeable team, specialising in residential lettings and property management, and always working to industry best practice standards. With all this time under our belts we have managed to forge professional relationships far and wide, from property maintenance contractors to developers, solicitors, estate agents and everyone in between.

What one piece of advice would you give to prospective tenants?

Understand exactly what sort of home you are looking for before you start your property search, then set a budget and wherever possible try sticking to it.

0117 244 0400; www.acornpropertygroup.org What misconceptions do people have about buying a new-build property?

I think the biggest misconception is that new-build properties are often of a lesser quality and soulless boxes; in reality, on the whole, new-build properties are of a very good quality. I’ll admit that to find genuine design quality you need to look a little harder, but there are some fantastic schemes on offer at both ends of the market.

ACORN PROPERTY GROUP

MANAGING DIRECTOR, HOMELETS

What part of the work do you particularly enjoy?

The creative part, working with the design team on floorplans and elevations which relate to the specifics of the site – whether that’s large windows to maximise the views, south-facing terraces or split-level units which work with the topography of a site. At Acorn we have no standard houses, so we can design everything to suit the location.

Marcus Arundell

What advice would you give someone looking to buy off-plan?

Get as much information as possible and never assume anything. Really understand the location for yourself, and before you commit be clear what’s important to you and what you are willing to compromise on. It’s easy to be seduced by a show home, and you can forget what’s important to you.

Robin Squire

IESTYN LEWIS

JOHN LAW

CEO, IESIS GROUP

0117 922 7039; www.iesis.net What area do you specialise in?

We specialise in the regeneration of inner city brownfield sites in sensitive locations. The developments we are usually involved with have some technical challenge that needs detailed attention, and this has enabled us to implement the full expertise of the business. It is through our knowledge base we are able to efficiently solve these problems and generate developments that commercially perform. Bath has its own unique set of circumstances, with half the city being built on a hill, and the other half being subject to the spring water restrictions. No building in Bath is particularly straightforward to deliver but that’s part of the unique nature of the city.

DIRECTOR, WOODHOUSE AND LAW 01225 428072; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk What makes you different from others in your profession?

We take time and effort to really understand our clients’ needs and to ensure that we respond with ideas that are creative, practical and work for our clients’ lifestyle. We also offer a full service for the home and garden from the initial creative concepts to the all-important finishing touches.

What key bit of advice would you give to a client?

It can be daunting commissioning an interior designer or interior architect to help with a project, but the right choice can help avoid costly mistakes and get better results, with less stress. It’s important to make sure that you are comfortable both with the work a company has produced and be confident you can work closely alongside them. We are proud to have worked on several projects for individual clients who come back to us again because they know we listen and care.

Iestyn Lewis

What are the key values of your business?

Our key values of the business are hard work, determination and the will to succeed. The business environment is unrelenting, and to grow any business requires a huge amount of energy, an excellent management team and dedicated staff.

It also requires extremely good relationships with your partners and clients, and I have been very fortunate to work with outstanding people in both of these respects.

John Law

What turns a house into a home?

Each time we take a brief, we do our best to get to know our clients so that we can reflect their taste, style and personality in our work. We’ve been inspired over the years by unusual collections of radios, family heirlooms, holiday finds and art. By including pieces in schemes that our clients have invested in emotionally or that have a story behind them, we can create real homes and not show homes.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

JEREMY JENKINS

DAN SMITH

JEREMY JENKINS ESTATE AGENTS

SOUTH WEST BUSINESS FINANCE

01225 866747; www.jeremyjenkins.co.uk What do you specialise in?

Residential property sales in Bradford-on-Avon and the surrounding villages.

01225 800849; www.swbf.co.uk What part of the work do you particularly enjoy?

The collaboration with the business and their professional team to find the perfect solution. Most days we get a different challenge and the ability to educate businesses and property professionals on what facilities are available to them is a real joy.

What turns a house into a home?

People. The occupants, their friends, families, pets and guests.

What professional accomplishments have made you most proud?

When my amazingly talented team was awarded Best Estate Agency in Bradford-on-Avon, by public vote two years running, my heart nearly burst my chest with pride.

Everyone has an opinion on property; what misconceptions do people have about it?

We handle a large number of property development applications. What’s interesting is that when you are first introduced, the client feels that the likelihood is that the bank will say ‘no’. Although this is not too far from the truth for high street banks there are a number of specialist lenders in this market who are willing to help, and are probably better at it.

Jeremy Jenkins

What are the key values of your business?

When you write your name over your shop door in gold leaf you must behave with the utmost integrity. This means always acting in our client’s best interest whilst trying to be as fair and transparent as possible.

What services do your clients currently require?

The funding solutions for our clients range from small asset requirements and cashflow difficulties to large property transactions including development and large investment projects.

What changes would you make to the property sector?

I would do away with the cheap online agents and conveyancers. The race to the bottom on price hurts consumers ultimately, as quality and service standards plummet. We hear of agents and vendors turning away buyers with these companies involved, and I can see why.

Getting these deals through is a nightmare.

Dan Smith

What advice would you give someone searching for a finance broker?

Having access to over 300 lenders surely gives you a much more informed choice and therefore a better chance of getting what you wish for.

RUPERT BENDELL MRICS FAAV

COLSTON & COLSTON CHARTERED SURVEYORS

CHRISTOPHER ASKEW

01225 904704; www.colstonandcolston.com What areas of the profession do you cover?

I originally trained as a rural practice surveyor, although most of my time is now spent advising on planning and development matters in both the rural and urban context. The benefit of being part of a diverse and growing practice is that I get involved in a wide variety of work from advising on planning applications, diversification projects and development land agreements, to valuing and selling a variety of domestic and non-domestic property.

What makes you different?

We are the only independent firm of surveyors in Bath offering the full range of professional services and I am the only rural agent within the business. This means we can offer a wide range of professional advice but still provide a bespoke, personal service.

What is the most interesting deal in Bath you have done in the last 12 months?

In March we sold 3-5 Argyle Street & 2 Grove Street, home to one of Bath’s most well-known culinary institutions – the ‘Rajpoot’ Indian Restaurant – and a combination of other commercial and residential space. The building presented an exciting opportunity as it is one of the few large mixed-use properties sold in the city recently and had both investment and redevelopment angles.

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NOOK

Rupert Bendell

01225 680315 www.nookofbath.co.uk Tell us something about yourselves and why people should contact you?

Nook is a bespoke property management and renovation service for second or overseas homeowners. Based in Bath itself, we are a family-run business and because of this we feel we can offer a more tailored, personalised service to each of our clients. We have learned that some clients just want a local point of contact who can hold an emergency key while others prefer for us to take all the hassle out of managing their property on their behalf. As such we offer a wide and diverse range of services, from fully renovating listed homes to regular planned maintenance, house keeping, holiday-lets and much more.

What is your favourite part of the job?

Seeing inside the historical buildings of Bath that we look after for our clients. Bath is a world heritage site and we get to see behind the big Georgian front doors.

What key bit of advice would you give to a client?

Georgian buildings are built to last, but they require specialist knowledge and care. At Nook we have this knowledge, first hand experience and a network of contacts we can call upon if work is required.

Christopher Askew

ADVERTISING FEATURE

NATHALIE THOMPSON

LUKE BRADY

01225 800 674 www.romans.co.uk/bath What part of the work do you particularly enjoy?

Meeting new people – both landlords and tenants. I also find it particularly rewarding when I work with a landlord through their entire property journey, from helping them to purchase a buy-to-let property to finding them a new tenant and getting them settled in their new home. It is great to see the story through from start to finish.

Best bit of your job?

Getting to see inside some amazing properties in and around Bath. We also find out about some hidden gems both in the city and further afield. The lettings industry is dynamic and fast moving, which keeps us on our toes – and constant training helps us to keep current with new regulations.

Tell us something about yourselves and why people should contact you?

Whether you are a landlord of one property or a seasoned investor, we work really hard to ensure you receive the service and support you need. We provide a range of services to make your life easier and most of the team are ARLA Propertymark qualified and therefore trained to give the best advice. Best of all, we are a very friendly and personable team – so pop in and say hello and see for yourself

What do you specialise in?

I specialise in prime residential sales and, in particular, the top end city centre market of Bath.

SAVILLS; 01225 474501; savills.co.uk

ROMANS ESTATE AGENTS

What do you love most about working in property?

I have always loved the varied days from my very first days of working as an agent in London – there was always something new to do and a new house to see. Similarly, now that I look after the Southern region residential offices, I see a variety of people and businesses and at the start of this year I also took on the overseeing of our residential businesses in Ireland.

If you could change one thing about the Bath Property market what would it be?

I would like to see more family houses at affordable prices built, to stop our young families and young professionals being priced out of the city.

Nathalie Thompson

Luke Brady

LISA HOWELLS

BRAD HUGHES

SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR, CURO 01225 366000; www.curo-sales.co.uk.

Everyone has an opinion on property, what misconceptions do people have about Help to Buy? The government-backed Help to Buy Scheme is not just available for first time buyers, it’s for anyone who’s planning to buy a newly-built home up to £600,000. The property you’re purchasing must be your only residence, but it’s a great help to move up from a two-bedroom property to a three-bedroom or even a four-bed family home. So, for expanding families it’s a great help.

What advice would you give someone searching for a new home?

Research the area thoroughly – check out local amenities, transport links and schools. I would also recommend speaking to your future neighbours to find out exactly what it’s like to be part of your chosen community and the residential development you’re considering. It’s important to find a solicitor that speaks your language and is easy to reach on the phone or email. When you choose your home, look for a property that you are able to grow into, and imagine how you would live there in five years’ time.

Tell us something about yourselves and why people should contact you?

We’re all about creating thriving, sustainable communities and not just building homes. We’re also a ‘profit for purpose’ organisation.

What do you anticipate for the Bath property market for the next 12 months?

We see at best a static market as we approach March 2019 (the deadline for Brexit). Mostly this is caused by political uncertainty, higher taxation and a significantly quieter market in London. It is our belief that once we know the direction that Brexit will take and some certainty returns, activity will revert to normal. The growth forecast for the wider South of England and Wales in 2018 is 1%, but over the next 5 years is 14.2%.

Lisa Howells

Brad Hughes

CROSSMAN HOMES 01225 471116; www.crossmanhomes.co.uk What do you specialise in?

Crossman Homes deliver bespoke luxury residential projects, with a portfolio across Bath and Bristol. Our sister company Bath Design & Build construct developments for investors, other developers and landowners.

What new plans do you have for this year?

We have recently gained planning approval for a thirtyone-unit scheme and will be working in partnership with Yarlington Housing Association. We are also hoping to move into a new purpose built eco-friendly state of the art office building in Batheaston next year.

What are the key values of your business?

We’re committed to delivering a high-quality product incorporating contemporary design solutions that blend well with the Bath environment. We’re proud to work with an excellent team of designers, local craftsmen and businesses, never compromising on high standards of specification and attention to detail. The company also strongly supports community initiatives including local charities and sports clubs.

What is your proudest achievement this year?

The successful and ambitious redevelopment of the burntout shell of a Grade II listed chapel in Bristol. We worked alongside an amazing professional team to create fifteen fantastic apartments, which are now 100% reserved.

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 147

ECHOES OF OLD Take a look inside a magnificent Italianate Victorian townhouse nestled on Bath’s highly desirable northern slopes

By Evelyn Green

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PROPERTY

W

e all have a checklist for what we want in a new home, whether that’s plenty of bedrooms for the brood, an impressive garden, a location that balances convenience with beauty, or a killer view. If that just described your ideal abode to a T, then you should probably arrange a viewing at Warberry Lodge on Lansdown Road toot sweet.

Nestled on Bath’s highly desirable northern slopes, the Italianate Victorian townhouse benefits from the most glorious views over Newton St Loe and the countryside beyond. It also has enough sleeping space for a growing family, and a sizeable garden in which to host barbeques, garden parties or a professional game of football (ok, we’re exaggerating about the last bit; it’s not that big, but it is over half an acre).

Constructed circa 1852, the magnificent detached home is built with stone elevations beneath a tiled roof and is arranged over four floors. The layout is ideal for families, with living space over the ground and gardens floors, and an abundance of bedrooms and bathrooms to the upper floors.

The property is accessed via a stone pillared entrance, which in turn leads to a large gravel driveway and parking area. Enter the house through a boastfully welcoming entrance hall with double doors opening onto the inner hallway, and you’ll find the impressive central staircase and atrium canopy roof light. To the left is the drawing room with three tall sash windows, each allowing you to gaze at the unspoiled, far-reaching vistas beyond, as well as access to a wide balcony and spiral staircase leading to the garden.

In this room, there’s also a feature fireplace, a high corniced ceiling and double doors through to the dining room.

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PROPERTY

In the dining room, where the tone is set by the warm ripe wheat colour of its hessian wallcovering, there’s a stripped wooden floor and another feature fireplace, and a door to the rear of the space leads to the studio – with its triple aspect offering wonderful levels of natural light. Also off the hallway is a comfortable family room.

On the garden level is a kitchen/breakfast room complete with a range of bespoke hand-built cupboards and drawers complemented by granite work surfaces and an island unit.

There’s also a further, less formal, dining room as well as a wine store, gym, storage rooms and a home office, which has a utility room leading off it and a secondary staircase hopping back up to the studio.

To the top floors you’ll find the master bedroom, with its stylish en suite bathroom complete with separate shower and separate dressing room; a guest bedroom with another en suite; four further double bedrooms; and family bathroom.

There are cloakrooms to the half-landings and on the garden level, too.

The front grounds are private and enclosed, with established raised beds home to a number of shrubs and trees. And the secluded rear gardens offer a vast lawn area surrounded by lower beds and specimen trees. There are beautiful box hedges, pleached trees, and charming climbing roses, mingled among it all, too. Immediately off the back of the house is a spacious south-westerly-facing flagstone terrace; leading off the kitchen, this is an ideal area for dining in the sun (as if you needed any more al fresco options after reading page 38).

Sounds pretty perfect, doesn’t it? All of this in one of Lansdown’s premium positions, between town and country, means Warberry Lodge probably won’t stick around for long at all. n

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HOUSE NUMBERS Square footage Gardens Bedrooms Extras

5,800 0.538 acres 6

1 double garage

Price

POA

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

RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Peace of mind for landlords

Reside are easily the best letting agents that I've ever dealt with, they have shown me what a letting agent can be, and set a standard in service that I will be desperate to seek out in the future.

01225 445777 | www.residebath.co.uk | @ResideBath

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Indoor gardening Bring a little of the outside to your apartment

D

on’t limit greenery in your home design to only your outdoor garden.

Container gardens are the newest trend in home design that can be implemented just about anywhere in your home. Not only do container gardens add a touch of nature to your home, they also create unique and intricate designs that don’t require a lot of maintenance. Take a look at these container garden designs to add to your home.

Mint chandeliers Grouping together different containers will create a mint chandelier for just about anywhere in your home. The smell of mint is sure to give your home a feel of nature and you can snip the leaves to create a refreshing garnish for spring and summer drinks.

Lush succulents Succulents are lush and striking but many are small, making them hard to notice and appreciate when planted in soil in the ground. By planting a mix of beautiful succulents in a hanging sphere, you can enjoy these beautiful plants in a new light.

First, work from a wire form with soil, then press down each individual succulent into holes no deeper than the roots. You will need to make sure to hang the hanging sphere securely in a place where the spiky silhouettes, colours and textures can be enjoyed closely. As the new offshoots begin to grow, they should be pinned to the surface with a hairpin or bent paper clip to keep the tight, compact profile intact.

Fern container Take a trip to your local market and pick up a few old-fashioned milk pails to add greenery with rustic charm. Sword ferns can be placed in 10-inch pots inside the milk pail to give your room a rustic look with a touch of green.

Modern container Purchase steel utility boxes from your local hardware store to create a sleek and modern container for your plants. You can select a range of shapes and sizes and turn them so that the side with holes is at the bottom. Plant low-growing succulents, then top with gravel. To create a unique

and exotic centrepiece, arrange several succulents in a tray full of grit.

Go for the green You can transform a run-down atrium into a plant-centric greenhouse that is bursting at the seams with herbs. Line the walls with cedar planters and chalkboard labels to keep all of your rows recipe-ready.

With just a few of these tricks, you can make your urban apartment feel like it’s in the wild countryside, as well as creating more of a homely space. ■

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

SPECIALISTS IN LUXURY SURFACE FINISHES AND BESPOKE CABINET MAKING

Anka works with the leading liquid metal technology which creates bespoke interior and exterior finishes. Our innovative product allows us to coat a wide range of surfaces with a solid veneer of metal. The finished product can be polished, buffed or brushed just like a solid piece of metal, and using our range of patinas and washes we can create the effects of ageing and oxidation. The product can be given a number of textured finishes, and we can even pre-texture the surface to achieve greater texturing or apply to an already textured surface. The Anka group also have a bespoke cabinetry division specialising in high-end furniture from console and dining tables to kitchens. We are makers of the highest quality bespoke handmade furniture and specialist joinery, working closely with world renowned designers.

Corsham SN13 9RU | 01225 819132 | harry@ankametalcoatings.co.uk | www.ankametalcoatings.co.uk

BATH LIVES

© PAUL GILLIS

“She founded a company which supplied machines used to crack the Enigma code”

MARY MONRO on her hero father, what part of the body is named after an ancestor of hers, and her family connection to cracking the Enigma code Mary Monro’s first-ever book, Stranger in my Heart, is a memoir about her father. HRH The Princess Royal describes it as “an inspiring story of a Royal Artillery officer, his capture and escape from the Japanese invasion of Hong Kong [and his] concern for prisoners of war”.

Here, Mary tells us about her father’s past, and about her fascinating ancestry…

An unsolved mystery led me to write my first book…

My father, John Monro, never mentioned his World War II experiences, leaving me with unanswered questions when he died. He fought at the Battle of Hong Kong in 1941, made a daring escape across Japaneseoccupied China, and became assistant military attaché in Chongqing. Caught up in Far East war strategy, he proposed a bold plan to liberate the prisoners of war. But by the time I was born,

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he’d become a farmer, revealing nothing of his heroic past.

Decades after his death, something surprising prompted me to start digging… I heard my father

described as a ‘20th Century great’; this led me to my quest.

The first thing I looked at when researching his past was… his diary, as well as his

military service record, his letters, and reports. Our friend, author Damien Lewis, introduced me to his researcher, who visited the National Archives at Kew for me. I went to the Imperial War Museum to read about others who had fought at Hong Kong. I also hired researchers in the USA to look into my dad’s plan to liberate the POWs. During my research, I was absolutely astonished to find that… President Franklin D.

Roosevelt’s entire presidential archive is available online for free – from every handwritten note to military report. I was able to read about the ‘behind closed doors’ shenanigans of global war strategy from the comfort of my sofa.

The most pleasing element of looking into my dad’s background was… having

contact with the men who fought alongside my father. They feel like extended family.

The next person I plan to write about is… my Great aunt

Dora. She founded a computing company which supplied the machines that Alan Turing used to crack the Enigma code. When she retired from her job, she moved to a house owned by the Special Ops Executive on the shores of a Scottish loch with no electricity or running water, which was only accessible by boat. I think there might be a good book in there somewhere.

I’ve lived in Bath since 1999…

It’s the perfect city for me – full of cultural delights, great shopping and heavenly food.

You’ll find me spending money at… all the bookshops in Bath, or

at Francis DIY & Hardware on Moorland Road. My favourite pub is The Packhorse in South Stoke – we are part of the community who funded its revival – and I love eating at Nepalese restaurant Yak Yeti Yak on Pierrepont Street.

My favourite spot in Bath is…

Kingsmead Square; it feels like the hub of the city.

Writing isn’t my full-time job…

I’m also an osteopath in Bradford

on Avon, treating humans and animals (mostly horses and dogs).

Talking of osteopathy, part of the human body is named after an ancestor of mine… I

sewed a model of the ventricles of the brain to use as a teaching aid for my osteopathic colleagues.

Together, the four ventricles look like a bird – body, wings and tail.

The connector between each wing and the body is called the interventricular foramen of Monro – named after Alexander Monro Secundus (1733-1813), an ancestor of mine.

My best personal moments in life so far include… Hiking

in the Himalayas, seeing African wild dogs in Kruger National Park, horse riding in Botswana, and snorkelling with manta rays in Bali.

HRH the Princess Royal wrote a foreword to the book…

admiring my dad’s bravery and contribution to charity. He was one of the founders of Riding for the Disabled Association, and the Princess Royal is president of the charity. His wartime experiences left him with an understanding of the importance of freedom, and riding gives disabled children a sense of liberation from their restrictive bodies. n Stranger in my Heart, was published

by Unbound in June and is available to buy in Bath at Topping & Company Booksellers, Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, The Oldfield Park Bookshop, and at Ex Libris in Bradford on Avon.

For more, visit www. strangerinmyheart.co.uk

Bathrooms at

No.

5

your local Villeroy & Boch stockists NEW SHOwroom OPEN in trim street | 12a Trim Street, Bath BA1 1HB | 01225 308060 5 The Shambles, Bradford on Avon BA15 1JS | 01225 309110 | www.bathroomsatno5.co.uk