Bath Life – Issue 406

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 406 / 6 – 20 DECEMBER 2019 / £3

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 406 / 6 – 20 DECEMBER 2019 / FESTIVE FUN

NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT CHRISTMAS GIFTS APLENTY

THAT’S THE SPIRIT

WINTER WARMER COCKTAILS

BIND US TOGETHER

CROWNING FORTY

WOODS RESTAURANT CELEBRATES A BIG BIRTHDAY

65 GIFT

IDEAS

INSIDE GEORGE BAYNTUN BOOKSHOP

EDITOR’S LETTER

H

ow do you wrap your Christmas presents? Last minute on Christmas Eve with a glass of vino, in front of Elf? Done and dusted by the first week in December with all your presents adorned with big, shiny bows and ribbons – if so, we’re full of admiration/raging jealousy. I like to do it, and I’m sure I’m not alone here, with a glass of sherry and Michael Bublé at my side. Not literally, obviously, that really would make for an amazing Christmas.

However you do it, we’ve got loads of Christmas shopping inspiration to help you with the whole shebang, with a collection of gifts (page 64) including everything from home accessories, stuff for the kids, fashion, accessories and loads for the foodies amongst you.

Elsewhere, if you want to try your hand at being a mixologist, we’ve got some dazzling wintry cocktail recipes (page 75) that are sure to put you in a party mood – think a Mandarin and Ginger Margarita, Sevilla Weather Warning, and something called A Kick up the Godfather. If you’d rather just rock up to a bar and drink one of these lovelies, we’ve also got the low-down on the best places to catch a cocktail over the next month.

Elsewhere we get chatting to Edward Bayntun from the beautiful bookshop and bindery George Bayntun on Manvers Street (page 34). If you haven’t visited it yet, put it on your to-do list.

Happy not-quite Christmas for now. See you in a fortnight when we’ll be looking forward to what lies ahead in 2020 – gulp!

HARRIET NOBLE The art of cocktail making is a beautiful thing (page 75)

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ADVERTISEMENT

Issue 406 / 6–20 December 2019 COVER Beautiful Christmas gifts from The White Company, see page 64 for more

THE ARTS

34 THE BIG INTERVIEW Life amongst the shelves at

George Baynton

41 ARTS INTRO 19th century art with 21st century

technique

42 WHAT’S ON Theatre, music, family stuff – and all

the festive joys of Bath

53 BOOKS Our favourite sort of stocking filler 55 FILM Christmas favourites on the big screen

SHOPPING

57 INTRO Not enough sofas for Christmas Day? This

statement floor cushion will save the day

60 EDITOR’S CHOICE Shop Christmas colours 64 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Gifts for the home,

the stomach, the kids and a little something for the fashionistas thrown in too.

FOOD&DRINK

75 COCKTAILS Sip something sumptuous 88 RESTAURANT Keeping it simple at Woods 91 FOOD & DRINK NEWS All the latest foodie

75

happenings in the city

92 TAKE 5 with Lucknam Park’s award-winning CDP 97 RECIPES Something savoury and something sweet

97

© 2018 RIVERFORD ORGANIC FARMERS LTD

60

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55

Issue 406 / 6–20 December 2019

LIFESTYLE

63 INSIDE STORY Pressie ideas from the

interiors enthusiast

73 ANÉ AURET Health and beauty routines to keep you

looking peachy

100 TRAVEL An escape to the Cornish coast 122 A DAY IN THE LIFE Revd Canon Guy Bridgewater

lets us in on a few secrets of life at Bath Abbey

BUSINESS

105 BATHWORKS The local businessess making

the headlines

PROPERTY

113 SHOWCASE Proof that a bit of beauty is good for

the soul

100

DEPARTMENTS 13 SPOTLIGHT 21 SOCIETY 31 A MAN’S WORLD

113

© VICTORIA ADAMSON

13

Editor Harriet Noble harriet.noble@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Editor Lydia Tewkesbury lydia.tewkesbury@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 Contributors Ané Auret, Nic Bottomley, David Flatman, Philippa May, Sophie-Claire McLeod and Rachel Ifans Group Advertising Manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Advertising Manager Justine Walker justine.walker@ mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Advertising Manager Polly Jackson polly.jackson@mediaclash.co.uk Account Manager Annabel North annabel.north@mediaclash.co.uk Sales Executive Louis Grey louis.grey@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 and Exeter. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag). 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

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

SPOTLIGHT

Romance

HAPPILY EVER AFTER Would your love story give Romeo and Juliet a run for its money? Newlyweds, Chris and Heather are on the hunt for the nation’s most romantic get-together story to top their very own fairy tale. Chris Vincent, owner of the 19th century Orchardleigh Estate in Somerset, has recently tied the knot with his wife, Heather White. The couple have been together for four years, but had lived next door to each other for 16 years prior. The tale of their budding romance inspired them to run a competition to find the UK’s best love story for the chance to win a romantic break in The Boathouse, Orchardleigh’s most romantic hideaway.

“As well as themselves, people can also nominate another couple, perhaps their parents or grandparents, so it’s a great opportunity to share a wonderful tale that may never get told,” says Chris.

To enter the competition go to www.orchardleigh.lpages.co

Fashion

IN VOGUE

Donna Wallace

knows her fashion Donna Wallace, fashion and accessories editor at British Vogue will judge the Fashion Museum’s Dress of the Year award 2019.

An annual tradition, the Fashion Museum invites a top name from the fashion industry to choose the defining outfit of the year, one that captures the country’s mood – and imagination.

“I am so honoured to have been asked to be this year’s selector for the Dress of the Year. It has been so interesting to look back and see just how much has happened in 2019,” says Donna.

Rosemary Carden, curator at the Fashion Museum, expressed her delight at Donna’s appointment.

“This is a fabulous moment for the Fashion Museum’s Dress of the Year 2019.”

Dress of the Year scheme and we The Dress of the Year award are thrilled that Donna, a key figure has run since the museum opened in the new team at British Vogue its doors in the Assembly Rooms under the editorship of Edward in 1963.

Enninful, has agreed to choose the For more: www.fashionmuseum.co.uk © VICTORIA ADAMSON

Chris and Hannah on their wedding day

Charity

THE GIVING SEASON

Age UK BANES elves are making Christmas wishes come true

Santa’s elves at Age UK BANES have been hard at work making the magic of Christmas accessible to all ages.

With the help of local businesses, they are working around the clock to make everybody’s Christmas dreams come true.

It was the day club choir’s dream to record a Christmas single, so local choir leader Matt Finch stepped in to make it happen. John dreamed of a trip to Las Vegas, so the elves improvised with a performance from a rat pack crooner, American-style lunch and, the most important part of the day, a trip out to Bath Casino.

“We can’t take John to Vegas but we will be bringing Vegas to John, and giving Jane the chance to garden again. But we need your help and that’s why we are appealing to people and businesses of Bath to make these wishes happen,” says Janet Dabbs, Age UK BANES CEO. If you’d like to help make a wish come true for an older person in your community, or you are a business that could donate time, money or goods, get in touch with Age UK online.

For more: www.ageuk.org.uk/bathandnortheastsomerset

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SPOTLIGHT Charity

Jerry Donahue at the Cropredy Festival

Music

TAKING CARE OF THEIR OWN

Some of the biggest names in British rock have come together to help a US-based guitar legend. The three surviving members of Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, Paul McCartney, Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour and ELO’s Jeff Lynne among 23 other musicians have signed a guitar which is set to be sold in aid of Jerry Donahue’s medical bills. Jerry, known for playing in leading UK bands Fairport Convention and Fotheringay during the ’60s and ’70s suffered a stroke in 2016 that has left him unable to play guitar. His medical

Will Young

insurance doesn’t cover the extensive physical therapy he requires, so it’s hoped funds from the guitar, which is set to auction at Gardiner Houldate in Corsham, will help cover the deficit. It’s expected to sell for between £10,000-£20,000.

“What’s brought these stars together to help is the respect they have for Jerry.

They recognise he’s one of the greatest guitarists in the world with a unique style,” says Dave Pegg, bass player with Fairport Convention and one of the leaders of the fundraising drive. “The way in which Jerry could bend strings is totally different to English guitarists.

No one else could do the multiple string bends, which is why guitar legends like Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page admire him so much.”

For more: www.gardinerhoulgate.co.uk

James Morrison

© CROPREDY FESTIVAL

SHAKE ON YOUR SHOES

Local runners have donated thousands of pounds to projects aimed at getting vulnerable and disadvantaged Bath residents into exercise. The Quartet Community Foundation gave £8,500 to 12 local charities and community groups through the Bath Half Marathon Grant Programme. One charity, the Genesis Trust received £500 for its Life Skills programme, which provides yoga and exercise classes for vulnerable and disadvantaged adults.

“Many of our Life Skills clients struggle to access classes for a range of reasons but have shown an appetite to do some exercise,” says Paul Solly, the charity’s Gateway Centre service manager. “With this funding we can deliver fully accessible and inclusive sessions in a safe and familiar space.

“We can also encourage clients to think about their general wellbeing and help to reduce social isolation.

“We are delighted to have received this grant and want to thank Bath Half Marathon and Quartet.”

For more: www.quartetcf.org.uk

Genesis Life Skills project go cycling

Music

BOYS IN THE TREES

Will Young and James Morrison have been announced as co-headliners of summer 2020’s Forest Live tour, stopping at Westonbirt Arboretum near Tetbury in June.

After winning the very first series of Pop Idol, Will Young has cemented his place in UK pop history over the past 20-odd years.

James Morrison landed square in the limelight back with the release of his debut album Undiscovered – back in 2006, if you can believe it. The smooth crooner went on to cultivate an army of dedicated fans with hits like ‘You Give Me Something’ and ‘Wonderful World’.

“Both James and I have fond memories of appearing as part of Forest Live as solo artists in the past. We love the work Forestry England does, so we are glad to be back again in what promises to be a fantastic double-header of a show,” says Will.

“For the last 20 years Will has been at the forefront of British popular culture,” James adds. “That’s a massive achievement. I think our sets will complement each other in a special way and I’m really looking forward to our shows together. It’ll be a great night out!”

For more: www.forestryengland.uk

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SPONSORED BY

SCENE Tessa Cox, Lucy Pearman and Emma Jackson

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

Libby Sandbrook and Sarah Garret

Patrick Beare and Susie Temple

Kate Fawcett, Louisa Barton, Sharon Addenbrooke, Martha Hernandez, Fiona Smith and Jean Turvey Sarah Kettlety

A NIGHT AT THE OSCARS

Helen Horn, Andy Tometzki and Kate Tometzki

Bath-based charity Ethiopiaid raised £1,327 via a recent fundraiser at The Little Theatre. Proceedings kicked off with a drinks reception and entertainment from the Priordonnas choir, led by Sarah Kettlety, before guests made haste to the screens for the main event. Five local Bath celebrities nominated films they considered influential in their lives and it was then down to the audience to pick an ultimate favourite. Out of films suggested by Peter King, Ken Loach, Simon Shepherd, Margaret Heffernan and Holly Tarquini, it was Holly’s pick, Capernaum, that emerged the victor. www.ethiopiaid.org.uk Photos by Brett Salako

Kate Hatfield and Lee Hatfield

Marian Beare and Sarah McGlynn

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SPONSORED BY

SOCIETY

Harry Madley and Mark Morrell

Miranda Porrit and Mark Mason Christian Morris and Millie Pratley

Dave Dixon and Joe Stas

READY TO LAUNCH

Benedict Raven celebrated the launch of their very first brick and mortar store with a party. Over 100 guests flocked to the luxury menswear outfit on New Bond Street to toast the brand’s new venture with a glass of fizz, music courtesy of DJ SyvSays of Loco 99, as well as a chance to have a proper nose through their latest collection in the flesh. Lucky guests left with goody bags packed with luxury goods including a lifetime members discount card, Benedict Raven lapel pin, the shop’s own barista coffee beans, British made fudge and mints, Penhaligons aftershave and some treats from Aesop.

More on Benedict Raven on p106. www.benedictraven.co.uk Photos by Simon Lees

Stuart Walter and Laura Walter Zoe Stone, James Kingston and Lois Haire

Cameron Thaws, Ben Papuca, Charlie Page and Darrel Irwin Mark Daniels, Danielle Wathes and Alex Leese

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Nick Hems and Sophie Wainwright

SPONSORED BY

SOCIETY

Aisling O’Hagan and Richard Knowles

Adrian Bailey and Linn Waite

Snacks went down well

ROLL OUT THE RED CARPET

Richardson Swift and Mogers Drewett joined forces recently to host a film night at TIVOLI. The Bath-based chartered accountants and solicitors put on the event to screen their mutual client, Early Day Films’ latest offering, Hard, Cracked the Wind.

Founded in 2009, Early Day Films won a BAFTA that same year for September, a short film. They’ve gone on to win many more plaudits from there, gaining rave reviews this summer for Bait, the film about a Cornwall fishing village.

Screening founders Kate Byers and Linn Waite were on hand for a Q&A with the audience. www.mogersdrewett.com www.richardsonswift.co.uk Photos by Focus First Media

Lindsay Whitmore, Andrew Pattie and Jon Miles

Helena Moore and Mary Stringer Myrthe Edney, Kae Bahar, Josie Bahar, and Henrietta Atkins

Victoria Lewis, Emily Eccles and David Hart Mark Hepworth, Sarah Hepworth, Kate Byers, and Steve Hawkins

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

Craig Barnes and Sean McDonough

SPONSORED BY

SOCIETY

Becky Brindley and Charles Brindly Louise Howdle, Rebecca Capprara and Ali Vowles

Lucy Harbut and Hana Whittington

POP ART

The Gainsborough Bath Spa, Modern ArtBuyer and Rostra Gallery have got together for a second time for a festive showcase of contemporary artworks from a selection of exciting artists, emerging and established. The pop up gallery featured limited edition prints by Sir Peter Blake, digital artist Chuck Elliot and collage artist Maria Rivans alongside painters including Paul Bennett, Elaine Jones and Kirsten Eades among many others. www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk Photos by Philip Shone

Anthony Birts, Kathey Bravin and John Bravin

Sarah Garrett and Esther Ibbeken

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Shirley Withers, Simon Withers and Adam Lloyd-Smith Sophie Cooper, Ian Cooper and Bruce Jelly

Hannah Grant and Guy Douglas

Emma Brits, Theresa McDermott and Jessica Lloyd-Smith

SPONSORED BY

SOCIETY

Michael Verity and John Ashbery

Canapes by St James’s Deli Ali Binns and Lynne King

GOOD AND CLASSY

Bernadette Bailey and Sylvia Mizel

CLASS Boutique Fitness and Goodbody Wellness recently joined forces to bring Cannabidiol (CBD) to the world of fitness. Part of CLASS’ ‘more than fitness’ mission to create a culture of wellbeing amongst their members, the event gave the CLASS crew the chance to find out about the reported benefits of CBD – all over a glass of Champagne and some delicious nibbles. www.class-bath.co.uk

Goodbody Team

Nick Horniman

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Kirsty Smith

Chris Jones

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A MAN’S WORLD DAVID FLATMAN

Thinking deep

© TAKING PICTURES

Where is the best place to go swimming in Bath? How do you look suave while drinking a cocktail? Should you cancel your country house membership? Flats tackles the big questions…

“By Friday early evening I was being mistaken for Duncan Goodhew”

C

ouple of things to address this week, and one of them isn’t very festive.

The other one kind of is, I guess, but you’ll decide for yourselves. Actually, if I frame my first thing around potential Christmas holiday activities with hyperactive children of the type incapable of entertaining themselves with anything but an iPhone as per 2019, I might pull it off.

It’s swimming. Last week I went swimming not once or twice, but thrice. By Friday early evening I was being mistaken for Duncan Goodhew as I bounded smugly through Lidl in search of some coffee pods I’d heard were as good as Nespresso but only 0.03 pence each (they’re actually good!). The next bit will sound less noble, though, so I’ll brace myself for your disapproval. The first two aqua sessions were at Soho Farmhouse and Babington House. Now, this is a swish membership that I am days away from almost definitely cancelling as, due to the frequency with which I actually use these places, it works out at about one small family car per visit in terms of value (it’s not that bad, obviously, but it’s bad). However, swim I did. Well, I bobbed and steamed and macchiatoed. Now this is all lovely and cosy and isn’t actually the real world, I know. And it may well have spoiled me for the third place I went swimming: the sports centre by the Rec. It was basically fine. Nope, nothing horrid or infectious coming. It was fine. But it did – with its toenail-deep wet floors, its limp-at-best showers that literally stopped working with both my daughters’ hair full of shampoo, and its lifeguard who refused to let me launch my kids from my shoulders in three feet of water (this last one was a good thing) – remind me once again that there’s nowhere truly pleasant to conduct this traditional pastime in Bath

that offers what you might call a great experience. Frankly, I’m still checking Google weekly, hoping to see ‘luxury pool for all’ added to the Walcot House website.

There’s no solution coming here, by the way. No, I prefer to inject problems into life then disappear back to my television. In summary, I’d like either Bruce Craig or James Dyson to buy the sports centre and do it up with duck egg blue lockers and grey-painted, designer floorboards. I’ll keep my cauliflower ear to the ground.

Second up are cocktails. I’ve been meaning to get into them for a while now, principally because I think my fitted black cashmere rollneck sweater will suit them perfectly. It’ll be like a scene from Alan Partridge, only with chronic fluid retention. I want to be suave and I want to be able to enter ‘Cocktails in Bath’ into my phone’s calendar and it not be code for ‘Cinema on my own’ (by the way I went on my own last week to see ‘Sorry We Missed You’ and it was the most impactful film I’ve seen in years. In fact, on a serious note, my Soho House membership renewal email arrived the morning after I saw it, and that’s the real reason I’m set to cancel it. Watch it. You will understand, and you won’t regret it).

The problem with cocktails is that, firstly, I don’t know where to go to drink them, so I need to do some research. Secondly, I’m not sure I like them. I need to like them in order to be as cool as I think I want to be, so I’ll put the work in, but I just think of triple G&Ts and getting sloshed really quickly. Much to learn, so any and all steers readily received.

And if we cross paths, you and I, in a cocktail bar in town, feel free to stroke my rollneck. It really is superb.

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

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Happy Christmas from Bradford-on-Avon’s smallest estate agent

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

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

THE BIG INTERVIEW

NOW YOU SEE IT...

Stand facing the train station, and look to your left. Count to three, turn once in a circle and a magical bookshop will appear before your eyes…

Read all about it: Edward Bayntun

Words by Harriet Noble and Rachel Ifans Photos by Betty Bhandari www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 35

T

Where Harry Potter goes for a spot of reading

Are there any quirky or historical parts to the store that you’d recommend we explore?

It’s all rather quirky and historical to be honest, but no other space compares to the bindery. However, as it is by some definitions a factory, we’re not able to open it to the public. The second-hand department in the basement has quite an atmosphere and has featured in a few films.

he George Bayntun bookstore in Manvers Street is what tired old travel books would refer to as a ‘hidden gem’. The family-run book shop and bindery has been in Manvers Street for 80 years so why are most of us unaware of its existence? We let Edward Bayntun, great grandson of the eponymous George show us around his wonderland of books which, because of its age, is as much fascinating museum as it is working business.

What are people drawn to when they first arrive?

For those arriving by train, we are the first shop in town and we are often mistaken for a museum with a classic Georgian front. We date from 1901 and the building was originally designed as the Post Office sorting office.

We moved into this building in 1939 – 80 years ago – but I’m still often told there are no old bookshops in Manvers Street!

We try to be discreet. You have to ring the bell for admission and, although that can be a little intimidating, we try to be friendly and encourage our visitors to explore the building. We have books on three floors and

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a print gallery, and it’s easy to get lost. We close for lunch between 1pm and 2pm, and have been known to lock customers in by mistake! They are usually quite happy – if a little hungry when we find them again.

The business was started in 1894 by your greatgrandfather, George Bayntun. What can you tell us about him?

“30 years ago there was very little demand for Jane Austen”

He trained as a binder in the Taylor bindery in Trim Street and set up his own business in 1894 in Northumberland Place. He moved to larger premises in Walcot Street (now the site of the Hilton Hotel) and then on to Manvers Street. He was remarkably successful, and made a fortune out of buying, restoring and selling old books and buildings. He also had a poultry farm in Claverton, which is now the site of the University of Bath. By all accounts, he was modest and much loved – especially by his many American clients.

The business has been in Manvers Street since 1939. What can you tell us about the history of the building?

We were almost destroyed by a bomb in the war. We have a cavernous basement, with many small rooms, and

THE BIG INTERVIEW It takes at least five years to learn how to bind books

I keep finding wonderful things laid down by George Bayntun when we moved in. We don’t like throwing things away; besides, some old ‘stuff’ does grow in value, you know.

Did you always know you were going to work in the family business?

I’ve always had a great love for books and the business, but did not see myself following in my father’s footsteps.

He was wise enough not to put any pressure on me, but when I left Oxford University with a degree in History I could not think of any better way to spend my working days. I have resisted requesting that my children should add to the generations. We shall see!

Tell us about a typical day for you…

My days are wonderfully varied, and rarely without a meeting, excursion or some unexpected occurrence. But books are only one part of my life.

The family comes first and we do like to travel. For 10 years, I was chairman of the Bath Preservation Trust, and four great museums, and now I am chairman of the world-famous Holburne Museum, and a trustee of the American Museum. A few years ago, I was High Sheriff of Somerset and I am now a Deputy Lieutenant (but only until 2041). I get to meet some amazing people and I’m involved with various charities, including BANES Carers’ Centre and Focus Counselling. I try to end the day with a few minutes in the gym. I sometimes have to remind myself who or where I am.

What are the challenges and joys of running the bookstore?

The challenge is to sell enough books each month to pay the wages and overheads. We have somehow managed this for 125 years so we must be doing something right.

Although the building looks almost exactly the same as it did 80 years ago, the books have changed. Galsworthy, Sitwell and Shaw are no longer bestsellers, while 30 years ago there was very little demand for Jane Austen. We’re able to observe changing tastes over decades and try to respond in time.

In recent years we’ve seen a resurgence in ‘lost arts’, is this the case with bookbinding?

Bookbinding is a very ancient craft and Bath was one of the world centres. Over the last century, old firms such as Cedric Chivers have closed and we have incorporated what we can. Now we seem to be the last one standing.

I am optimistic about the future, as we are almost overwhelmed with demands for our work and there appears to be a genuine appreciation for our efforts to carry on doing the best we can.

The books are bound by hand. How many years does it take to be a skilled bookbinder?

It takes at least five years to become sufficiently competent, but all our binders will tell you that they learn something new every day. Because of the nature of old books, materials, techniques and tools, each job is unique and never quite perfect.

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

Tell us about some of your clients and what kind of special books you’ve bound?

All our clients are interesting and some are very prestigious. We held the warrant as Booksellers to Queen Mary. We have bound many books for monarchs and heads of state, and Lady Thatcher chose a copy of A Tale of Two Cities in one of our red morocco bindings as a final gift for President Mitterand. Alan Titchmarsh is one of our favourite customers and the head of Minecraft in Seattle flies over to see us.

Why can’t all bookshops look like this?

Your George Gregory Gallery specialises in antique prints, can you give us a taster of what we can see there?

We have thousands of old prints and it is a great place to browse – especially if you are looking for old views of Bath.

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I was born just outside of Bath, but lived away for 20 years. Coming home was the right thing to do, and I trust that we are here to stay. I was once quoted as saying: “If Bath does not allow development it will soon be twinned with Pompeii”. We must keep moving on, while respecting and honouring the past. We must all play our part to make it an even better place.

What do you think has ensured the success of your family’s business?

The ability to adapt without compromising our standards. Perhaps closing for lunch has also prolonged our working life. It also pays to be honest and honour deals.

Do you have any intriguing rare books in store at the moment?

We always have a few very special books, but I’d better be careful, even with the lock on the door!

We do have a first edition of the King James Bible, the best-selling book of all time, and we are binding up a complete set of first editions of the James Bond novels.

What does it mean to be part of the fabric of Bath, having been part of its landscape for so long?

“We seem to be the last one standing”

Finally, what is your proudest moment as owner and manager of George Bayntun?

I joined the firm in 1994, 25 years ago, and my father died in 2000, but we are still going. And we remain real: we have a decent website but primarily we exist as a good old-fashioned but forward-looking bookshop – of which there are very few left. n For more: George Bayntun, Manvers Street, Bath, BA1 1JW; 01225 466000; www.georgebayntun.com

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

ROCK PAPER SCISSORS Bath-based Glyn West is living the indie artist dream right now. Two of his designs were recently snapped up by IKEA for their Bild poster range online and in store – March Hares and Heart of the Home (pictured). Inspired by 19th century folk art, Scherenschnitte (literally ‘paper cuts’ in German), you can see the typical features of the form in Glyn’s pieces – they’re a bit romantic, basically. The intricately realised silhouettes are traditionally made by carefully cutting at a folded piece of paper with tiny scissors before unfolding to reveal the whole image. Symmetrical, whimsical and lace-like, the pictures create the impression of another, more delicate world.

Glyn has a slightly different technique, sketching out half of the image by hand before scanning it into the computer, where his graphic design skills come into play. He adds colour variants and makes personalised pieces – we have our very own Bath Life print in the office – which make for quirky and unique Christmas gifts.

You can see most of Glyn’s work in his studio, Glyn West Design; 11 Marlborough Street, Bath, or online at www.glynwestdesign.co.uk You can buy Heart of the Home and March Hair exclusively from IKEA: www.ikea.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 41

WHAT’S ON 6 December – 5 January

Contrary to popular believe. Santa’s workshop is actually in Cheddar caves

EXHIBITIONS Until 24 December

WINTER WONDERLAND AT MILSOM PLACE Rostra Gallery has a Christmas-ey pop up in Milsom Place for December. Limited issue prints, paintings ceramics and much more will be on show during prime giftbuying time.

Mon-Sat, 10am-6pm; Unit 23, Milsom Place; www.milsomplace.co.uk

Until January 5 2020

MATISSE: MASTER OF LINE Though perhaps more known for his bright and colourful paintings, Matisse was also admired for his line drawings. Collector and dealer, John Kasmin has put together a striking selection of those drawings, available to see right now. They provide a concise but intense

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

insight into Matisse’s talent as a draughtsman.

Mon-Sun, 10am-5pm; price included in admission; The Holburne; www.holburne.org

Until 6 January 2020

ART BAR UNWRAPPED A festive collaboration between four local artists: Emma Taylor, Emma Rose, James Nunn and Lucy Saunders. Expect a bright and beautiful selection of paintings, prints and cards, which you can peruse while sipping on a cocktail – or a coffee, if you prefer.

Mon-Sun, 8am-10pm; Abbey Hotel; www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

Until 16 January 2020

BATH OPEN STUDIOS AT THE RUH Artists and makers from five Bath Arts Trails are showing works in the

RUH Central Gallery, part of the Art at the Heart programme. Prints, photographs, ceramics and mosaics will line the halls of the hospital, brightening up the place at the same time as giving Bath Arts Trails a bit of a boost.

Mon-Sun, 8am-8pm; Art at the Heart of the RUH, Central Gallery; RUH; www.artatruh.org

Until 2 February 2020

PETER BROWN: BATH IS IT Over 100 new oil paintings and drawings by Bath’s favourite artist will be on show at the Victoria Art Gallery for the foreseeable. You’ll spot some of Bath’s most picturesque spots along with a few lesser known, but equally beautiful, corners of the city.

Mon-Sun, 10.30am-5pm; £5; Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

PLAYS/SHOWS Until 21 December

WILD GOOSE DREAMS Two lonely people meet online dating.

Guk Minsung, a ‘good father’ from South Korea whose wife and daughter have left him for a better life in the US, and Yoo Nanhee, a defector from North Korea haunted by trauma.

This beautiful modern love story will stay with you for a long time.

Mon-Sat 7.45pm, Thurs and Sat matinee 2.30pm; prices vary; Ustinov Studio; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Various dates, December

KRATER CHRISTMAS SPECIAL An all star comedy line-up with optional three or one course meal followed by a night of music courtesy of FAME? Yes please. The Krater Christmas Special makes for the perfect opportunity for a festive, pre-

WHAT’S ON going home for Christmas blow out with your besties.

Doors 6pm; show starts 8.30pm; ticket prices vary; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

Until 12 January 2020

RAPUNZEL Rapunzel, the musical. Need we say more? This funny version of the young woman desperate to escape from the confines of her tower – and the clutches of her overbearing witch/mother – just never gets old.

Times and prices vary; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

7–29 December

© FREIA TURL AND

above: Suzi Ruffell is ready to dance like everyone is watching in Corsham left: An inventive one-man retelling of A Christmas Carol arrives at the Ustinov in January below: It’s that time of year again... panto season is upon us

SQUIRREL You may not know this, but not all acorns are created equal. Squirrel knows. Squirrel has a stock of only the very best. Only he can’t quite remember which tree he buried them under…

A partnership between the egg and Paragon School, Squirrel is a fantastic example of the benefits of getting children involved in theatre.

Various times and prices; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

12 December 2019 – 12 January 2020

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Join Wendi Peters (Coronation Street, Hetty Feather) as Fairy Bon-bon, Bath favourite Jon Monie and pro-Dame Nick Wilton (Eastenders) for this year’s panto. A magical imagining of Belle, the young bookworm who finds herself trapped in a castle with an evil beast – or is he? Expect sparkling costumes, magical moments and plenty of jokes. Remember to bring your audience participation A-game.

Various times and prices; Theatre Royal; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

12–22 December

HE STORY OF CHRISTMAS T A family Christmas show full of songs, silliness and plenty of laughs, The Story of Christmas guides the audience through the origin stories of our most ridiculous Christmas traditions. Various times and prices; Rondo Theatre; www.rondotheatre.co.uk

14 December

SUZI RUFFELL: DANCE LIKE EVERYONE’S WATCHING Known for her ability to turn tragedy and anxiety into laughter, with her latest show, Suzi poses the question: are stand-ups at their best when they’re miserable?

8pm; £15; Pound Arts, Corsham; www.poundarts.org.uk

19 December

AGAINST THE GRAIN Let off some steam before heading home for the Christmas holiday with a good laugh. Hosted by MC Ben Thurston and headlined by Ignacio Lopez, expect a night of brutal jokes to cultivate the gallows humour you’ll need to see you through to the new year.

8pm; £9; Cheese and Grain, Frome; www.cheeseandgrain.com

20 December

MINISTRY OF BURLESQUE: CHRISTMAS CABARET Sometimes sexy, sometimes shocking, always entertaining, the Ministry of Burlesque Christmas Cabaret is a guaranteed festive treat. With breath taking physical feats – often completed scantily clad – it’s a night out with some serious wow factor.

Doors 6pm, show starts 8.30pm; ticket prices vary; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

3–4 January 2020

A CHRISTMAS CAROL Guy Masterson will perform his one-man retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas tale.

We’re intrigued to see how he tackles Fezziwig’s party.

7pm, Saturday matinee 2.30pm; Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

MUSIC

15 December

ARETHA: TRIBUTE TO THE QUEEN OF SOUL The Vocal Works Gospel Choir will perform an uplifting set celebrating the music of Aretha Franklin.

Bursting with hits like ‘Respect’, ‘Think’, ‘Natural Woman’ and ‘Son of a Preacher Man’, you won’t be able to keep your toes from tapping along to the beat.

7.30pm; prices vary; Bath Pavilion; www.bathboxoffice.org.uk

17 December

MISS HOPE SPRINGS CHRISTMAS AGOGO! Recovering showgirl Miss Hope Springs – one time belle of Vegas, now not so much – brings her highly medicated set of festive show-stoppers, comedy numbers and spine-tingling ballads to Komedia. You can also expect the odd debaucherous tale from her past.

Doors 7pm, show starts 8pm; £15; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

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

WHAT’S ON

22 December

THE WURZELS’ WEST COUNTRY CHRISTMAS PARTY The stalwarts of the West Country are back on the road with a festivethemed set spanning all the hits, jokes and stories from their more than 50-year career.

7.30pm; prices vary; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

FAMILY

Until 22 December

CHRISTMAS AT THE AMERICAN MUSEUM Christmas has come to the American Museum. There’s plenty on to celebrate, from a festive family trail full of Father Christmas’s helpers to the chance to meet the man himself in his grotto.

11am-4pm; normal admission applies; The American Museum and Gardens; www.americanmuseum.org

Until 24 December

CHRISTMAS AT CHEDDAR A team of Father Christmas’s elves have been hard at work at Cheddar Gorge and Caves. They have transformed Gough’s Cave into a fantastical workshop, all ready for Santa’s arrival. The man himself will be there, and has given special permission for visitors to take a peek behind the scenes – he might even have a few pressies to hand out too.

Weekends only until 8 December, daily from 14 December; various times; price included in admission; www.cheddargorge.co.uk

Until 5 January 2020

CHRISTMAS AT DYRHAM Get out of the hustle and bustle of the busy city centre with a calming walking trail for the kids that encourages them to find the beauty in the winter season. If you’re feeling left out, there’s a poetry trail for adults to.

Inside you’ll find the glorious

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

home carefully decorated as it would have been in the 17th century, with all the sights and smells of Christmas.

Mon-Sun, 10am-4pm (house opening times can vary – check website for more details); normal admission applies; Dyrham Park; www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Various dates in December

FATHER CHRISTMAS’S WORKSHOP In this 45-minute immersive theatre experience, help snow elves Coco, Dave and Sprinkles collect mystical Wonderberries – a magical fruit that helps the reindeers to fly; understandably quite vital – and save Christmas! Towards the end of the show you’ll get the chance to meet Father Christmas so he can say thank you in person.

Various times; Milsom Place; £12; www.bathboxoffice.org.uk

© JOHNNY HATHAWAY

BATH BACH CHOIR

BY CANDLELIGHT Three nights of glorious Christmas music-making to mark the true start of Christmas in Bath.

This much-loved annual entertainment includes songs from the choir, young virtuoso musicians, children’s voices and conductor Nigel Perrin’s great audience repartee.

7.30pm; various prices and locations; www.bathboxoffice.org.uk

7 December

WINTER FAIR Is there a better place to get Christmas-ey than Bath City Farm?

We don’t think so. Pack up the family and pop down to visit Santa in his grotto, make a Christmas wreath and grab a festive snack in the café – and wish a merry Christmas to all the animals.

12-3pm; free, with a small charge for some activities; Bath City Farm; www.bathcityfarm.org.uk

ABOVE: Absolute magic at Westonbirt Arboretum LEFT: Catch Anne Hines’ works at the RUH BELOW: Bath Bach Choir bringing the festive vibes

Various dates, December

PRIOR PARK CHRISTMAS TRAIL An advent calendar has taken over Prior Park Landscape Garden. Seek out the scattered doors to reveal some festive finds – along with a few challenges too.

Various dates; normal admission + 50p for the trail; Prior Park Landscape Garden; www.nationaltrust.org.uk

OTHER

Various dates in November and December

ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS AT WESTONBIRT ARBORETUM Wending your way through the twisting paths of the arboretum, you’ll see the woods filled with twinkling lights and sparkling illuminations. You’ll also find the Christmas Village, where you can enjoy a full programme of activities as well as some live Christmas music.

4-9pm; prices vary; Westonbirt Arboretum; www.forestryengland.uk

© ROZ COLLINS PHOTOGR APHY

8–20 December

WHAT’S ON

GLOW-IN-THE-DARK MINI GOLF After dark the mini golf course in Royal Victoria Park will burst into magical light. Play a round in this atmospheric winter wonderland with glow in the dark golf balls.

Mon-Sun, 4.15-9.30pm; adult £7, child £6; Royal Victoria Park; www.bathonice.com

13 December

DARTS LEGENDS LIVE AT BATH CITY Bath City FC are playing host to a night of darts-playing fun. Paul Starr Darts MC and Exhibitions present Martin ‘Wolfie’ Adams and Tony ‘Silverback’ O’Shea for a lively game.

You even get the chance to take on the stars yourself.

7pm; Bath City FC, Twerton Park; prices vary; www.bath-city-fc.myshopify.com

Until 22 December

APRÈS-SKI BAR You know we’re officially in the countdown to Christmas when the Après-Ski Bar returns to the Abbey Hotel. Authentic Alpine foods set the scene; warming goulash and delicious bratwursts washed down with tangy red wine, hot chocolate and local beers – you’ll forget you’re in Bath rather than taking a break from the slopes.

Mon-Sun, 10am-11pm; Abbey Hotel; www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

Until 31 December

CHRISTMAS TAVERN Known for going all out for the season, this Christmas The Bird will have its own Christmas Tavern. The log cabin style venue will give some serious #cosygoals. Think sofas so comfy you’ll never want to leave, seating draped in Bavarian furs and a room lost to Christmas magic – baubles, stars and lanterns fill the space with festive spirit. There will also be snacks and drinks available.

Mon-Sun, 12-10pm; The Bird; www.thebirdbath.co.uk

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

© NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES/JOHN MILL AR

Until 5 January 2020

Until 15 December (every Fri – Sun)

KINGSMEAD SQUARE STREET FOOD MARKET Described as a nine-day foodie wonderland, this market is awardwinning for a reason – 18 of the South West’s very best street food stalls will be on hand to serve up their goods while the market’s Moonshine Bar brings the bevs. There’s even a programme of live music.

Friday and Sat, 11am-9pm, Sun 11am6pm Kingsmead Square; search Kingsmead Square Market on Facebook

Until 13 December

above: Get steeped in Christmas, 17th centurystyle at Dyrham Park left: The Bird’s log cabin Christmas Tavern is the perfect place to get into the spirit of the season below: Strap on your skates at Bath On Ice in Victoria Park

SETTLERS STORES POP UP Branching out from their awardwinning eclectic boutique in the medieval heart of Frome, the designers Zara d’Abo and Nathalie Sergent are bringing their luxury tweed collection of men’s and women’s tailored country clothing to Bath for the first time.

Wed-Sat, 10am-4pm; Gray MCA; www.settlersstores.co.uk

20 December

CAROLS IN THE CIRCUS Gather in The Circus for a good old Christmas sing along. With the accompaniment of The Salvation Army’s brass band, pick up a carol sheet and join the cacophony of voices lifting into the night. All proceeds from the event will go to The Salvation Army.

7pm; The Circus. n

© LOIC SAL AN 2018

BATH ON ICE It’s back. Bath’s favourite festive ice rink is returning to Victoria Park this November – and with that the countdown to Christmas will officially begin.

11.45am-10pm weekdays, 10.30am-10pm weekends; adult £11.50, child (under 16) £10; Royal Victoria Park; www.bathonice.com

© FERL A PAOLO PHOTOGR APHY

Until 5 January 2020

Rode, near Frome, BA11 6PE Open from Saturday 30th November daily – 9.30am until 5.30pm

On the Fosse Way near Colerne, SN14 8AH Open 30th November & 1st December then Wednesday to Sunday every week – 9am until dark

Fresh from the Forest Traditional trees • Potted • Large trees Nordman Fir • Fraser Fir • Wreaths Mistletoe and holly • Logs in bags FREE REINDEER DUST

www.o-christmas.co.uk Tel: 07870 466179

Foreign Languages Centre

Enrolling now!

Daytime, lunchtime and evening foreign language classes for members of the public.

Arabic French German Italian Japanese Mandarin Chinese Portuguese Spanish We offer a wide range of foreign languages at beginner through to advanced level.

To find out more about the courses available, or to enrol, visit our website www.bath.ac.uk/flc and apply online or call 01225 383991.

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BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

I’m making a list…

Need literary Christmas shopping ideas? Nic’s got it sorted

“Miles Kington was one of our earliest supporters and one of the first customers to sniff us out after we opened back in 2006”

W

e’re getting into pressie season.

Well, perhaps not quite. But since someone has plonked a General Election right in the middle of pressie season, I feel duty bound, for once, to join my fellow retailers in shouting nice and promptly about the forthcoming festivities. As a chunk of December threatens to be taken up with wondering who’s in charge, it might be good to get the gift picks in early before you settle in and enjoy the chaos.

So, over the next two columns, I will put together a scattergun list of my favourite books for gifting this year across as many interest areas as possible.

Miles Kington was one of our earliest supporters and one of the first customers to sniff us out after we opened back in 2006. During his incredibly varied and accomplished career, he worked as a humourist, musician, author and as a distinguished journalist. Among his published books was a fantastically funny, and deeply unreliable, memoir of a childhood called Someone Like Me; and numerous mock language guides in the Let’s Parler Franglais series based on his Punch columns. I’d always lamented the fact that we’d never had access – before now – to his correspondence.

When Miles died in 2008, he left behind a huge cache of letters showing off his famous wit. A wonderful collection, My Mother, the Bearded Lady (Unbound, £25) has now been painstakingly curated by his wife, Caroline, and includes often hilarious correspondence with so many familiar characters from British creative life, from Melvyn Bragg and Andre Previn to John Cleese and Kenneth Williams.

The subjects covered are limitless – though books crop up pleasingly frequently and he even has advice for booksellers at one point.

Writing to Cate and Nash who run the superb Much Ado Books in Alfriston, and had clearly gifted him a book, he notes, “I am always worried about booksellers who make presents of books to people – this is no way to make a fortune – but then running an independent bookshop is no way to make a fortune either”.

I mention this to illustrate Miles’ humour (not to mention skills of perception) rather than to explain why none of you ever get any book gifts from the Mr B’s crew.

Sticking with humour, and throwing in some travel, A Chip Shop in Poznan (Icon, £12.99) sees author Ben Aitken skip out on England three months before THAT referendum. He moves to Poland – to experience a slice of the life that thousands of Poles had left behind.

He does indeed end up working in a fish and chip shop (his English credentials counting for more than his abject lack of skills or experience for the role) but also travels widely beyond Poznan. It’s the encounters and conversations with the Poles themselves that stand out more than the towns and landscapes he visits. A particular standout is the moment where he puts the Polish tradition of laying a place at the Christmas table for a stranger to the test… by knocking on a door and inviting himself in for a 12-course feast with a highly sceptical and confused, but ultimately welcoming, family.

On the surface, many episodes in the book are played for laughs but there is a more substantive side too. Aware of how proud the Poles are of their nation, he is clearly determined to find out why so many were willing to leave it behind, and to understand more about the Anglo-Polish relationship.

In so doing he even becomes embroiled in his own Anglo-Polish relationship which is revealed with brutal honesty amidst the more humorous anecdotes.

Lastly, a word about cheese. Because when you’re considering the perfect gift, cheese is often the answer. A Cheesemonger’s History of the British Isles by Ned Palmer (Profile, £16.99) is perfect for anyone swayed by a strong cheddar or a hearty stilton.

Ned Palmer switched from jazz pianist to cheesemonger (throw in a stint as a barista and he’d have Britain’s most hipster CV) and has now created a cheese odyssey in the form of this guide to the nation’s regional delights.

He also traces the history of cheese and its importance to our culture, from its Neolithic origins right up to the modern day. Sounds like perfect reading for between Turkey and Christmas Pudding.

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

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

ANTIQUE AND MODERN CARPETS BOUGHT, SOLD REPAIRED AND CLEANED NOW IN OUR 30TH YEAR IN BATH LARGEST SELECTION IN THE SOUTH WEST

9 8 Wa l c o t S t r e e t , B a t h B A 1 5 B G Te l 0 1 2 2 5 4 6 9 2 4 0 E m a i l c o n t a c t @ h a l i d e n . c o m w w w. h a l i d e n . c o m

FILM SOPHIECLAIRE MCLEOD LEFT TO RIGHT:

Highs and lows in the Christmas classic; recognise the cinema in Fantastic Mr Fox?; will the real Santa please step forward?

Festive films

Sophie-Claire chats Fantastic Mr Fox, Miracle on 34th Street and It’s A Wonderful Life

T

he most wonderful time of the year is in full fledge now, which also means fantastic films returning to the big screen. So grab a hot chocolate, or maybe a mulled wine, and feel some Christmas cheer with these great films.

As we come to the end of 2019, we come to the end of The Little Theatre Cinema’s 80th anniversary of showing film, and we’re celebrating with one of our favourite films, Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr Fox. As Wes Anderson’s first stop-motion animated film, featuring a stellar cast with the likes of Meryl Streep, Willem Dafoe, George Clooney and Bill Murray, it’s a delightful film to have return to the big screen. Plus, if you didn’t already know, Wes Anderson even featured the Little in the film, so keep your eyes peeled and see if you can spot us!

Based on Roald Dahl’s best-selling children’s book, Fantastic Mr Fox follows the story of Mr Fox (Clooney), who has become restless in his mundane job as a newspaper columnist. He decides to give in to his animalistic nature and steal some food from the three biggest farmers in the area. In doing this, he breaks his word to his loving wife Mrs Fox (Meryl Streep), which could spell trouble. With the help from his friend, opossum Kylie (Wally Wolodarsky), Mr Fox can’t help but plan his next big heist, only for the three farmers Boggis (Robin Hurlstone), Bunce (Hugo Guinness), and Bean (Michael Gambon) to team up and attempt to kill the cunning thief.

Mr Fox is forced to hide his wife, son (Jason Schwartzman) and nephew (Eric Anderson) for safety. While underground, they meet others suffering at the hands of the farmers, leading Mr Fox to concoct another scheme.

It’s a fantastically witty and beautiful film that can be enjoyed by the whole family, and it’s the perfect way to finish celebrating 80 years of screening films.

Miracle on 34th Street (1947) is a holiday classic that will forever be a must-watch at Christmastime. Although the remakes are fantastic, the charm of the original 1947 version cannot be beat.

“Wes Anderson even featured the Little Theatre in the film” The classic story tells the tale of a gentleman going by the name of Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn). He fills in for a heavily intoxicated Santa in the Macy’s annual Thanksgiving parade, proving to be an absolute delight and a massive hit with kids and parents alike. He is offered a regular slot at the Macy’s store in Manhattan for his incredible work.

One day, Susan (Natalie Wood), a young girl who has been brought up by her mother Doris (Maureen O’Hara) to not believe in fairy-tales, is taken to Macy’s to meet Santa. Kringle tells her that he is the real Santa, she believes it’s true and starts to feel the Christmas cheer, which causes her mother and many to be concerned. After the surprise of Kringle’s revelation, he is taken to court to determine his authenticity and sanity.

It’s a wonderful and heart-warming classic with fantastic Oscar-winning performances that will warm the cockles of your Christmas soul.

Another Christmas film to warm your soul is the timeless classic It’s A Wonderful Life. As one of the most popular films at Christmas time, Christmas wouldn’t feel the same if it wasn’t on the big screen at least once. We have three special evening screenings of this festive epic that feature carols, mulled wine and mince pies too.

Beautifully crafted, the film opens with angels discussing George Bailey (James Stewart), a troubled man who is struggling to cope and is contemplating suicide at what is meant to be one of the most joyous times of year. As George prepares to jump from a bridge, a guardian angel, Clarence Oddbody (Henry Travers), intervenes and shows him what life would be like without his good deeds. Renewed with Christmas spirit and a lust for life, George returns home to his family to have the most wonderful Christmas together.

No matter how many times you see this film, you’ll always feel the joy, hope and Christmas spirit so expertly portrayed by James Stewart.

Alongside this classic, we have a whole range of other fantastic films to fill your boots with this Christmas, including Elf, Muppet Christmas Carol, and Die Hard, plus a stunning screening of the beautiful ballet ROH: The Nutcracker. Get yourself down to the cinema and feel some Christmas cheer!

Sophie-Claire McLeod is duty and marketing manager at The Little Theatre, 1–2 St Michael’s Place; 01225 466822; www.picturehouses.co.uk

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

+2019 BIKE sale

SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

CUSHION THE BLOW It’s Christmas Day and your house has been invaded by a million family members, of all ages, and likeability. It’s post-lunch and the energy levels have dropped considerably. As such, the whole bloomin’ lot have taken up all the room on every sofa and armchair in the house. You’d go upstairs but someone is lying on your sacred bed after one-too-many glasses of sherry. Typical.

But then you remember your beauty of a cushion. While they start to snore in front of the telly, with various Quality Streets perching on their chest, you lie yourself on the floor, whip out some reading material – your trusted copy of the latest Bath Life – and rest your tired, festive feet on this beautiful and very colourful Tantallon floor cushion. The contrasting patterns dance across the heavy cotton surface of the floor cushion, making you smile. You stifle a yawn as the memory – and quantity – of cheese catches up with you. Resting said magazine on your rising and falling tummy, you shut your eyes for a festive nap.

Tantallon Floor Cushion, £265; available from Oka, 26-27 Milsom St, Bath BA1 1DG; www.oka.com

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

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Brighten up your December with this happy, festive colour

RED TURKEY SHAPED BASTER, £7.95 It’s an essential item for the big day so why not go red?

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3 IN 1 RED TOTE BAG, £29.95 Mary Christmas has been all over Instagram with these must-have bags From 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

SANTA MOUSTACHE MUG, £5.99 Fill this mug up with hot chocolate, leave by the Christmas tree on the 24th – the big guy will love From Vinegar Hill, 16 Milsom Street, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk

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ED’S CHOICE LION PLACEMAT, £18 Gallant and gracious – give this to the unshakable lion in your life From Avenida Home, 27 Walcot Street, Bath; www.avenidahome.com

CARD REINDEER CHRISTMAS DECORATION, £5 The new addition to the family may not be very chatty but he sure is handsome From Oka, 26-27 Milsom Street; www.oka.com

DECORATIVE PILLOW, POA Reindeers scampering about, bare wintery tree and a curvy moon – what’s not to love?

From YvesDelorme, 11 Milsom Place, Bath; www. uk.yvesdelorme.com

STYLISH SHOE BOOT, £110 This stylish no-fuss slip on will put a spring in your step From Duo Boots, 33 Milsom Street, Bath; www.duoboots.com

GABOR CANDLE, POA Light this glowy wonder when you’re wrapping those presents to keep you all zen From The Soul Spa, 2 Hetling Court, Bath; www.thesoulspa.co.uk

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Interiors & Homewares Work from local artists and makers Prints, Cards & Gifts 10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath BA1 2LP homefrontinteriors.co.uk T: 01225 571711 E: info@homefrontinteriors.co.uk

Handmade, Reclaimed, Sustainable & Vintage

www.blossomandwren.shop

Neptune has Christmas all wrapped up – as does Philippa

© NEPTUNE.COM

INSIDE STORY PHILIPPA MAY

‘TIS THE SEASON Home accessories make great Christmas presents – lucky then, that there are some beauties here in Bath

© BLOMUS

Candles at Christmas

C

hristmas is just around the corner, you can smell it in the air, and in my opinion, there’s no better place to be this time of year than Bath. Seasonal shopping in the city always feels special; the lights, the boutiques and the promise of mulled wine in the Abbey Hotel’s cosy ski lodge when you’re too knackered to keep walking, make for the perfect day. If, like me, you’re already inundated with wishlist requests, this is the time to get organised.

I love giving gifts at Christmas and always make an effort to come up with ideas that I think will be truly loved or useful, and as we all get a bit older, a gift for the home always goes down well.

Sometimes, you can be so preoccupied with getting gifts for family and friends that you forget about your own wishlist.

And then, before you know it, you’re inundated with requests for ‘ideas’; if you fail, you just know you’ll be getting a pair of socks

“Sometimes, you can be so preoccupied by getting gifts for family and friends that you forget about your own wishlist”

for the fifth year running. I’ve scoured the Bath shops to find my top picks for your Christmas nice list, so tear it out and pass it to your brother/sister/mum/dad/ partner or get some ideas for the interiors-obsessed person in your life to make this year super special.

For the local artisan lover, who wants to support British industry but has an eye for design with flair, look no further than the Velvet Lamp Shades from Graham and Green, my favourite of which is the Duck Egg colour. Handmade in Dorset with carefully handrolled edges, this collection of classic drum-shaped velvet shades with a striking gold inner will make a statement in any corner of the home, especially when complemented by the graphic lines of their Metal Triangular Cross Lamp base.

For the hostess with the mostest, Biggie Best on Broad Street have a new range of ceramics that will add a touch of drama to your traditional place setting. Hand finished and available in varying designs, my choice would be the off-white and grey pasta bowls with their inky and dramatic contrast of colour. A set of these would be perfect for serving up a bowl of Boxing Day turkey curry too…

And let’s spare a thought for the stressed-out host – hosting comes more easily to some than others – who’s bought thoughtful gifts for everyone, cleaned the house,

cooked Christmas breakfast, lunch and washed it all up while abating any family arguments over Trivial Pursuit cheaters…

For that poor soul, how about the Verbena Lime Blomus Candle from The Salcombe Trading Company? It’s not only a stylish addition to the home with its modern concrete design but will turn any room into an oasis of wellbeing with it’s relaxing scent.

Pair this gift with a locally distilled Scout and Sage gin and a couple of Waterfall Gin Glasses from Anthropologie and it could really hit the mark with your mum: all ready for an evening with her feet up in the postChristmas recovery period.

When you’ve chosen your favourite gifts, make sure your wrapping is on trend and don’t forget the perfect finishing touches – I suggest Neptune’s Winterberry paper and Isla velvet ribbon. Its weighty and matte finish is perfect for getting those crisp lines, and it’s beautifully hand illustrated with a subtle festive feel. It’s completely recyclable to boot, so you’ll be doing your bit for the environment too.

Philippa May is an interiors enthusiast and is Director of her own branding and marketing company Mayd Studio.

Follow her on Instagram @_philippamay_ www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 63

ON PRESENT FORM

CURLY PEARL SHEEPSKIN BEANBAG, £495 CURLY TAUPE SHEEPSKIN BEANBAG, £495 VOLE SHEEPSKIN CUSHION, £48 OYSTER SHEEPSKIN CUSHION, £48 From Gaham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

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© MEL YATES

A Christmas gift guide brought to you by the Bath Life elves

FOR THE HOME

EMMA BRIDGEWATER WINTER BERRY HALF PINT MUG, £19.95 From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

BRITISH BIRD MELAMINE COASTERS, £20 From Julia Davey, 20 Wellsway, Bear Flat, Bath; www.juliadavey.com

MELANIE DEEGAN WIRE HORSE SCULPTURE, £175 From Verve Living; Upstairs @ Georges Larnicol, Upper Borough Walls, Bath; www.verveliving.uk

CHALK SPICED ORANGE CANDLE, £15 From The Salcombe Trading company, 76 Walcot Street, Bath; www.salcombetrading.co.uk

TIBETAN SINGING BOWL, POA From The Soul Spa, 2 Hetling Court, Bath; www.thesoulspa.co.uk

WINTER BERRIES ROOM DIFFUSER, £14.99 From The Roman Baths Shop, Stall Street, Bath; www.romanbaths.co.uk

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

FRAMED EMBROIDERED BUMBLEBEE, £45 From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

ANIMALIA MONOGRAM LUGGAGE TAG, £18 From Anthropologie, 1-4 New Bond Street, Bath; www.anthropologie.com

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FOR THE HOME

BLACK AND GOLD MEDIUM MOVING GEARS CLOCK, £107.10 From Silcox Son & Wicks, 5-7 New Street, Bath; www.silcox.co.uk

CANTALOUPE JUG, £24 From Oka, 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath www.oka.com

BATH SPA TEA TOWEL, £12 From Flamingo, 7 Widcombe Parade, Bath; www.flamingobath.co.uk

SEQUIN BASKETS, £21.95 From Homefront Interiors, 10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

TALL TREE – FAIRY LIGHTS INDOOR/OUTDOOR COLLECTION LEDS 6FT, £150/3FT £85; OVAL BASKET IN SEAGRASS, £95; SPARKLY GOLD PRESENT TOPPERS SET OF 12, £12 (ON BAGS); MINI STAR CHRISTMAS DECS SET OF SIX, £15; MISTLETOE FLITTER WRAP – 5M, £8; CHAMPAGNE KRAFT WRAP – 10M, £10 From The White Company, 15 Northgate Street, Bath; www.thewhitecompany.com

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FOR THE FOODIES

TASTE OF BATH SOMERSET SPARKLING WINE GIFT BOX, £40 From Taste of Bath; www.taste-of.co.uk

STAINLESS STEEL SANDWICH BOX, £29.95 From Graham and Green; 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

LE BENJAMIN DE PUECH-HAUT BIB-ART 4L RED/WHITE WINE BARREL £39.55 From Le Vignoble, Milsom Place, Bath: www.levignoble.co.uk

8 X 500ML BOTTLE, £20.50 From Bath Ales, Southway Drive,Warmley; www.bathales.com

10 YEAR OLD SOMERSET CIDER BRANDY, £13.50 From The Roman Baths Shop, Stall Street, Bath; www.romanbaths.co.uk

GOLD LEAF METAL DRINKS TROLLEY, £195 From Verve Living, Upstairs @ Georges Larnicol, Upper Borough Walls, Bath; www.verveliving.uk

SAGAFORM NATURE GRATER, £25 From The Salcombe Trading Company; 76 Walcot Street, Bath; www.salcombetrading.co.uk

SPICE KITCHEN TIN, £29.95 From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

ANTIQUE BRASS AND MARBLE SALAD SERVERS, £39.95 From 10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

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FASHION AND ACCESSORIES HANDKNITTED BOOT SOCKS, £35 From Bibico, 9A Bartlett Street, Bath; www.bibico.co.uk

YOGA ANGEL TEE, £23.99 From Blossom and Wren, www.blossomandwren.shop

CHALK ZIGGY SCARF, £29 EACH From The Salcombe Trading company, 76 Walcot Street, Bath; www.salcombetrading.co.uk

RIBBED MERINO BEANIE NAVY, £59 From Anthropologie, 1-4 New Bond Street, Bath; www.anthropologie.com

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REAL LEATHER WEEKEND BAG, £295 From Nickie Portman, 28 Milsom Street, Bath; www.nickieportman.co.uk

ROTARY WATCH, £189 From Tupra Jewellers, 4 Church Street, Bath

HARRINGTON RACER JACKET, £245.83 From 3.7 The Glove Factory, 1 Brook Lane, Holt, Wiltshire; www.frahmjacket.com

BUTTERFLY KEYRING, £11 From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

PYTHON TAN SUEDE BOOTS, £185 From Loake Shoemakers Bath, 15 Green Street, Bath; www.thebroguetrader.com

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

FOR THE KIDS

FRIDA GODDESS PUPPET BY WINI TAPP, £7.50 From 20 Wellsway, Bear Flat, Bath, www.juliadavey.com

KIDS COLLAR & WIDE LEG PJ SET: FLORAL WISH, £34 From Sleepy Doe, www.sleepydoe.com

GREAT MINDS ARISTOTLE PUZZLE, £10.99 From The Roman Baths Shop, Stall Street, Bath; www.romanbaths.co.uk

JUMBO ELEPHANT BOOTIES £26.95 From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

PERRY PANDA, £65 From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

LITTLE PUZZLE THING, CHOCOLATE BAR, £15.95 From Spotty Herberts, 5 Queen Street, Bath; www.spottyherberts.com

VINTAGE WOODEN CIRCUS TRAIN PUZZLE SET, £19.99 From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

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The Bespoke Furniture, Upholstery & Soft Furnishings Experts Clifton Village 62-64 The Mall, Bristol, BS8 4JG

Bedminster 196 North Street, Bristol, BS3 1JF

Open Mon – Sat 9AM – 5PM 01173 702745 www.swupholstery.co.uk

Consciously Life. Consciously Style.

Consciously You! A sustainable gifting and lifestyle boutique Organic Collections • Vegan Collections • Fair Trade 1 Kennington Rd (adjoining Chelsea Rd), Bath BA1 3EA @consciouslyyoubath

consciously you Bath

BEAUTY ANÉ AURET

Golden age Ageing skin is unavoidable, but getting into some healthy daily routines can do wonders While we can’t stop the clock and prevent the skin ageing process, there are certainly ways to slow down the signs of ageing. As I’m approaching my mid-forties and more fine lines, wrinkles and age spots are appearing, I’m increasingly interested in exploring ways to kick Father Time into touch.

The good news is it’s totally possible. We can control the length of time our skin stays looking naturally healthy by taking a long hard stare at our lifestyle and dayto-day choices. We have a great deal of power over the external factors that can seem somewhat out of our hands at times.

Skin ageing is influenced by several factors, not just our chronological age. That’s why the appearance of skin age can often differ considerably from your actual age.

In your own skin

We see skincare products all around us, but the ins and outs of skin ageing can be baffling. Causes fall into two main categories: • I ntrinsic ageing: the natural process that takes place in our bodies regardless of outside factors, and is influenced by the degenerative effects of free radicals, hormonal shifts, oxidative stress, inflammation and genetic mutations.

• Extrinsic ageing: the result of lifestyle and external environmental factors like overexposure to the sun’s UV rays, smoking, pollution, excessive alcohol, lack of sleep and chronic stress.

Chronic inflammation and the production of free radicals play

a key role in both intrinsic and extrinsic ageing processes. This most often occurs as a result of oxidative stress, where the body does not possess enough antioxidants to fix the damage caused by free radicals.

Oxidative stress has been identified as a key player in the ageing process and can cause damage to our cells, lipids, proteins and DNA and can cause inflammation.

For us to slow down the signs of ageing, we need to arm ourselves with daily best practices and invest in preventing, repairing and protecting our skin long term.

Three ways to look after your skin and slow the signs of ageing

1

Your No. 1 weapon: a broad-spectrum sunscreen

According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, up to 90 per cent of visible changes to the skin are caused by cumulative sun damage.

It causes most of the tell-tale signs of ageing by permanently damaging the upper layers of skin through breakdown of collagen, elastin, pigmented spots and cellular damage to DNA. And that’s before we even consider the more devastating potential risks of sun damage like melanoma.

You can do everything else by the book but fail to slap on that sunscreen and you’re fighting a losing battle against a permanently damaged complexion. Every day, whatever the weather, make sure you apply broad-spectrum sunscreen. It’s never too early – or indeed too late – to start this simple daily practice.

“Cutting down your sugar intake is a good place to start”

SOME OF THE TOP ANTIOXIDANTS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN YOUR SKINCARE PRODUCTS:

2

Kick your sugar habit in order to look sweeter

We are what we eat, especially when it comes to our skin. Cutting down on sugar, including alcohol units, will reap anti-ageing rewards. Sugar can cause a range of skin problems due to a process called ‘glycation’, which is when sugar molecules attach to collagen and elastin proteins in the skin, leading to loss in skin’s elasticity.

Glycation can be responsible for inflammation, and skin experts believe it is also a key factor in speeding up the ageing process.

If you want calm, clear, and more youthful-looking skin, cutting down your sugar intake is a good place to start.

3

Arm yourself with natural bodyguards

Antioxidants play a role too. Also called ‘free radical scavengers’, antioxidants are molecules that work like bodyguards; attaching to free radicals and preventing them from binding to our healthy cells. Antioxidants are able to combat oxidative damage, reduce inflammation and help to protect DNA from premature ageing. While it’s next to impossible to avoid our exposure to skin-damaging free radicals, we can invest in a diet and skincare routine rich in antioxidants.

• Vitamin A (Retinol) stimulates collagen production and accelerates cell renewal and repair • Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) fights inflammation, redness, brown spots or pigmentation • Vitamin C helps counteract UV free radical stress and pollution, brightens complexion • Vitamin E (often listed as Tocopherol) helps accelerate the skin’s healing process • Resveratrol protects skin from UVB damage • CoEnzymeQ10 helps stimulate collagen production to improve elasticity and texture • Glutathione aids in cell repair • Green Tea Polyphenols are antiinflammatory, with skin-soothing properties.

Aside from other lifestyle factors like getting enough sleep, avoiding chronic stress, eating a healthy diet full of fresh produce and keeping yourself hydrated, your skincare routine can play a vital role in holding back the hands of time. I like to include a Vitamin C serum in the morning and a Vitamin A serum at night for around-the-clock protection against free radicals.

Ané Auret is a self-confessed beauty obsessive and founder of Bath-based skincare brand Ané. Learn more at www.beautybyane.com and follow her on Instagram @beauty_by_ane

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COCKTAILS

KICK UP YOUR HEELS It’s party time! And there’s a tipple in this city with your name on it. Rachel Ifans and Harriet Noble leap aboard the Polar Express and make straight for the cocktail carriage

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COCKTAILS TIMBRELL’S YARD

49 St Margaret’s Street, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire; www.timbrellsyard.com VIBE: Relaxed but vibrant, with a definite country vibe. It’s got a relaxed charm that means you can let those shoulders drop as you sink in to the squashy seats.

FESTIVE FACT: The Winter Drinks menu includes some great boozy hot chocolates: the Black Forest Gateau with Luxardo is a drink and a pud rolled into one.

A BIT OF CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: We all want some Figgy Pudding in this office (gin and ginger ale).

Not for you? Then try an Après Amble (it doubles up on liqueurs); the Fire & Ice (a combo of whisky, cider and grenadine); or a Timbrell’s Chocolate Orange (orange liqueur, ginger ale and chocolate bitters).

Sevilla Weather Warning Tanqueray Sevilla gin 100ml Prosecco Lemonade

Coat the inside of a gin goblet with two large orange slices. Fill with ice, add Tanqueray Sevilla gin and Prosecco and top with lemonade. Serve with an orange wheel and a straw.

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CIRCO CELLAR BAR & COCKTAIL LOUNGE 16-18 George Street, Bath; www.circobar.co.uk

VIBE: Downstairs cellar-barcum-hidden-chill-out-spot with a dedicated rum bar. Equally good as a pitstop from your Christmas shop, or as a venue for a big night out.

FESTIVE FACT: Wait up, twinkle toes, the dancefloor has moved! Its new location means that at weekends the bar takes on the nostalgic feel of a house party.

Mandarin and Ginger Margarita 20ml Tapatio Blanco Tequila 15ml Fig liquor 20ml ginger syrup, 15ml Mandarin liquor

Pour over cubed ice into a rocks glass, finish with grated nutmeg.

BROWNS

Old Police Station, Orange Grove, Bath; www.browns-restaurants.co.uk VIBE: Browns’ recent makeover has gone all 1920s glamour atmos, and the glacé cherry on top is its twice weekly piano performances. Book now for cocktails and keyboards on Thursdays from 6pm.

FESTIVE FACT: Browns is Bath’s old courthouse and police station, and it’s one of the few buildings to have kept its huge entrance. You can just imagine the horse-drawn carriages dropping off the revellers of yesteryear.

A BIT OF CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: You only need read the names of the cocktails hotly-tipped by the bar staff at Browns, and you’ll come over all Hollywood: Wonderland Sours, Grand King Ginger, Winter Porn Star Martini and the Flat White Espresso Martini.

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SUB 13

Edgar Buildings, 4 George Street, Bath; www.sub13.net VIBE: Classic party vibe, but with a nice intimacy in the leather booths. It takes its cocktails very seriously and is as popular on those sunny days in summer as it is at Christmas.

FESTIVE FACT: Gin and cocktail masterclasses are available from £25. Could be a great gift for wannabe mixologists out there?

A BIT OF CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: Two headliners to ask for at the bar: firstly, the Christmas Prosecco Punch. Pictured here, this is a power packed and fruity with a good jolt of vodka – and secondly, the White Christmas Mojito, which combines cream, and coconut, rum and mint to provide a Cuban nod to Navidad. Or go simple with the Mulled G&T: now why didn’t I think of adding some fruit and spice to my favourite tipple?

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COCKTAILS BAR 15

No.15 Great Pulteney Street, Bath; www.no15greatpulteney.co.uk VIBE: Artistic, creative and fancy. A masterclass in how to fit modern interior design within the historic framework of a building.

FESTIVE FACT: The bar team focuses on purity of flavour. This means they use high-end ingredients that have been carefully crafted to produce amazing flavour. (I’m smacking my lips together at the very thought of them but promise not to do that in real life.)

A BIT OF CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: Tear out this corner of the page and take it with you: top tips are Winter Spritz (Aperol, blackberry liqueur, prosecco and soda); Mulled Wine (combining red wine and Somerset cider brandy); Winter Spice (with El Dorado 8yr, Calvados, Crème de cacao and cranberry); and Sloe 75 (sloe and mulberry gin, lemon, gomme and champers).

Bitter Honey

25ml honey tequila 15ml Cointreau 25ml lemon juice 2 dashes angostura bitters Lemon and glacé cherry to garnish Fever-Tree lemon tonic

© PAULO FERL A

Put all the ingredients into a Boston tin, shake and strain over cubed ice into a high ball glass. Top with Fever-Tree lemon tonic.

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COCKTAILS

THE MINT ROOM

Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath; www.mintroom.co.uk VIBE: A glitzy mix of traditional and modern.

FESTIVE FACT: If you fancy something different for New Year, book up the Bollywood dinner and dance. You’ll be welcomed with Pornstar Martinis, served a five-course meal, entertained by Bollywood dancers, and cheers’d with champagne toasts as the new year chimes in.

A BIT OF CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: We are told the Masala Chai Old Fashioned is a little bit special – a spicy mix of 21-year-old Glenfiddich Whisky mixed with chai syrup and orange bitters.

A Kick Up the Godfather 25ml Disaronno Amaretto 15ml Cinnamon syrup 25ml Early times Old Reserve Bourbon 2 Cloves

Put the cloves and star anise in a mixing jar and crush them. Then add Amaretto, Bourbon and ice. Mix for four minutes and then fine strain on a large cube of ice.

Garnish with a cinnamon stick and star anise flower.

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THE BOTANIST

The Octagon, 28 Milsom Place, Bath; www.thebotanist.uk.com VIBE: Nestled in one of the nicest locations in Bath, The Botanist is adding a festive twist to its daily live music offering this Christmas.

FESTIVE FACT: The Octagon was built as a private chapel for the well-to-do, and advertised as ‘the only safe place of worship in Bath as there are no steps to climb and no bodies buried below’. Its elegance made it the place to be seen back then and although there’s no worshipping these days, it’s still very much du jour.

A BIT OF CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: Here’s the deal: you have the Pumpkin Spice Latte (sounds like a coffee but it’s got rum in it!) while we have the Winter Punch (ahem, it’s a Laphroaig whisky with Bottlegreen Sloe and Juniper Cordial, and cranberry juice). No, don’t whine, we deserve it.

New to Bath!

A MEZCAL CHRISTMAS

Hot off the press! New to the Bath bar scene, Dos Dedos (Edgar Mews, Bartlett St, Bath) is worth checking out this Christmas. They offer a flight of four mezcals to introduce you to the traditional Mexican drink made from the agave plant. And, of course, they do a good line in cocktails too, not least the classic Margarita, made with Espolon Blanco, triple sec and lime. www.dosdedos.co.uk

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COCKTAILS

ART BAR

Abbey Hotel, North Parade, Bath; www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk VIBE: An artful masterstroke a few years ago put The Abbey Hotel on the Christmas map. Thanks to the Apres Ski Bar, people now flock to Bog Island in search of festive fun. The vibe in the Art Bar is glassy, twinkly and smart.

FESTIVE FACT: A well-chosen mini programme of Christmassy events take place in December: from wreath-making to family-friendly afternoon tea (cue special guest in red suit). Check the website for details.

A BIT OF CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: The Christmas Martini Collection manages to combine candy cane, chocolate orange and after-dinner mint in its drinks.

Snowflake

25ml Cargo Cult 15ml Mozart White 15ml Baileys 10ml Goslings 151 Black Rum Shake in a cocktail shaker and strain into a coupe glass, garnish with chocolate powder and a cinnamon stick.

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CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS 2019 surrounded by friends and family with our delicious Christmas menus, flowing drinks packages and an atmosphere like no other!

Plus, we’ll be providing an exciting line-up of festive live music to make Christmas 2019 all the merrier!

To book, simply contact our dedicated team at: bathchristmas@thebotanist.uk.com 28 Milsom Place • Bath • BA1 1BZ

COCKTAILS OTHER PLACES TO GO FOR A TIPPLE IN TOWN… THE HIDEOUT 1 Lilliput Court, Bath www.hideoutbath.co.uk

CENTURY CASINO BATH Saw Close, Bath www.cnty.com/bath THE DARK HORSE 7A Kingsmead Square, Bath www.darkhorsebar.co.uk THE ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL & SPA 16 Royal Crescent, Bath, www.royalcrescent.co.uk MANDALYNS BAR Fountain Buildings, 13 Lansdown Road, Bath www.mandalyns.co.uk MEATBUSTERS 2 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Road, Bath www.meatbusters.co.uk PONTE VECHIO Spring Gardens Road, Bath www.pontevecchiobath.com THE ROSEATE VILLA Henrietta Road, Bath www.roseatehotels.com

Mint Room

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WOODS

Woods restaurant celebrated its 40th birthday this year – so what’s the secret of its success? We dropped in to find out...

By Harriet Noble

I

can’t think of another restaurant in Bath that is like Woods. It’s been going for forty years (making it the oldest restaurant in Bath according to owners David Price and his French wife Claude), and is so against the grain of what most restaurants are up to at the moment. Forget small sharing plates that look like they could win a Turner prize; here the menu offers sizeable, no-frills, mostly traditional Frenchinfluenced British dishes in a comfortable but cosy setting.

And what a refreshing thing that is! A surprisingly large restaurant with rattan chairs, carpet, and unashamedly decked out with paintings of horses (David’s passion, more on that later), it feels immediately easy and non-showy, as my friend and I and discovered when we went for supper recently. In fact, one of the first things my friend says on entering the restaurant is that it feels like home.

And while, sadly, other restaurants have come and gone over the years, Woods has managed to retain a loyal fan

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base. Looking around at the packed and buzzy restaurant when we visit, it’s clear that this old-school vibe is clearly working for them.

I’d been told in advance that David is horse-mad so when I meet him I tell him I hail from a horsey village where our claim to equestrian fame is retired trainer Henrietta Knight, and where there is a statue of famed horse Best Mate. He instantly knows the place and says “We have Best Mate here too”, and points to a painting of the horse just behind my shoulder. And we’re off – chatting easily about horses, the restaurant, Bath and everything in between. David is a great front of house: warm, exuberant and full of stories from the get-go.

Sitting down, there’s a good mix of big and small groups and couples dining. A birthday cake comes out later on and the whole restaurant sings Happy Birthday and claps. David tells us if they get a whiff that it’s someone’s birthday, they will always whip out a cake, adorn it with

RESTAURANT

cream and candles and bring it out – even if it’s not been ordered. It’s all part of the friendly, informal service – creating a jolly, unpretentious atmosphere.

On to the food, the menu choices are mostly classic which feels like a relished novelty. Classics include pork chops, roast lamb, fillet of hake; veggie options include baked sun-dried tomato semolina and wild mushroom and spinach rolls. Pâté is my choice for starter and it’s a satisfying rich and rural affair that is lightened and brightened by a chilli and aubergine preserve. My friend digs her plate of prawns, loving the addition of the zingy limes and creamy mayo.

We both opt for the steak for mains, which comes with spuds and an assortment of veg. The green peppercorn with brandy cream sauce is delicious – I’d eat this on its own as a bowl of soup, though I’d probably hallucinate with the creaminess of it. I do love it though; I’ve got a bit weary of having a 50p size of garlic butter on my steak – I love that the steak is swimming in the sauce, that there is enough to mop up every mouthful; and that it’s full-on wintry, peppery and alcoholic.

For pudding it’s a crème brûlée for me, a light, sweet treat that cleanses the palate nicely while my friend has a very good-looking strawberry ice cream that goes down a treat.

David comes over to chat between courses with more anecdotes from his years running the joint. There’s more horse chat and he tells us about the Cheltenham Gold Cup event in the restaurant next March which is nearly sold out already; there’s obviously a lot of customers who share his enthusiasm for the sport. No doubt it’ll be a blast.

There’s a growing number of restaurants popping up where looks are all; everything is cool and Instagramorientated and, dare I say it, a bit hollow. These places are fine – sometimes they’re just what you’re in the mood for – but it’s crucial that there are other restaurant offerings out there. And a restaurant that can be counted on for making you feel at home is a pretty good thing in our books.

David and Claude seem very happy for their restaurant to be not on-trend. Their aim is to provide quality, hearty food in a warm, fun and friendly atmosphere. We think they’re nailing it. n

“I’d eat the green peppercorn with brandy cream on its own as bowl of soup”

DINING DETAILS Woods restaurant, 9-13 Alfred Street, Bath; www.woodsrestaurant.com In a nutshell Friendly, traditional French-influenced hearty fare We ate, for starters Coasted country pâté, red onion, chilli and aubergine preserve; grilled king prawns with fresh lime and Thai flavoured mayonnaise. For mains seared fillet steak with green peppercorn and brandy cream sauce. For desserts strawberry ice cream with red berry coulis. Traditional vanilla crème brulée with apple compote, cinnamon and almond tuile Prices Starters £5.95-£11.95; mains £14.25-£28.95; desserts £6.95

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

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR AT THE GRAPES This year The Grapes will be open for Christmas Day 12-4pm for lunch (booking in advance only) Christmas Day Lunch £85.00 per person for 6 courses New Years Eve £65.00 per person for 6 courses.

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS are available to book now, see online for our menu £25.00 Two Courses / £32.00 Three Courses 14 Silver Street, Bradford On Avon, BA15 1JY Telephone: 01225 938088 Email: maylee@thebunchofgrapes.com

www.thebunchofgrapes.com

Celebrate Christmas & New Year at The Mint Room!

Check out our festive menus online

FOOD & DRINK S N A P S H O T S O F B AT H ’ S F O O D S C E N E

THE WINNER TAKES ALL

Word on the street is that Bath now has its very own board game café. You know, those things people used to play before mobile phones became our hand’s favourite accessory?

With over 800 games to choose from, Thirsty Meeples, on Gay Street – a stone’s throw from Queen Square – is the ideal place to visit for anyone who has a competitive streak and a weakness for coffee. Enjoy a table service menu of light bites, sandwiches, coffee, craft beer and cocktails as you prepare for a head-tohead battle with friends and family. Whether you decide to revisit old classics, such as Jenga, Scrabble and Cluedo, or if you’re feeling adventurous, test out the more niche titles including Last Bastion and the Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets Trivia, you will never be stuck on what to play at Thirsty Meeples. The café’s very own game shop sells the latest board game releases, so you can even take the fun home with you.

For more: www.thirstymeeples.co.uk

May cause a cheesy grin

THE BIG CHEESE Pitchfork Cheddar has won Best British Cheese at the World Cheese Awards. Made in Trethowan’s Dairy in Somerset – and available from the Bath Fine Cheese Co. – Pitchfork has only been in production since 2017. While claiming to prize for the best of British, Pitchfork also came in fourth overall in the World Cheese Awards, which saw a record-breaking 3,804 entries this year.

It was a great night for Trethowan’s, who also picked up accolades for Best Mature Traditional Cheddar and Best Extra Mature Cheddar.

Competitive attitude required

© BEATA COSGROVE

For more: www.trethowansdairy.co.uk

Pick your poison

G © H IG H

The perfect gift for the Royal family fanatic in your life, you can now book vouchers for 2020 Champagne Tea Tours at Highgrove, the private residence of HRH Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall near Tetbury.

Spend two hours learning about Highgrove’s private gardens – you’ll get an insight into HRH’s unique approaching to gardening, as well as his commitment to sustainability – with an expert guide before heading to The Orchard Tea Room for your afternoon tea, accompanied by music from its resident pianist.

Right now if you buy one of the Prince of Wales’ limited edition lithographs the team at Highgrove will throw in a tour for two with your purchase.

For more: www.highgrovegardens.com

ROV E

A ROYAL INVITATION

A royally approved stocking filler

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

FOOD & DRINK Congratulations on your award! How did it feel to win?

The South West is such a competitive area with a number of great establishments and therefore the calibre of chefs is very high.

There was added pressure as two of my team mates won the award in 2017 and 2018 so a lot to live up to. The win means a lot to me and I am proud of myself. All the planning and hard work has paid off.

Have you always wanted to work with food?

I knew when I was in school that I wanted to be a chef. Following GCSEs I started a college apprenticeship. I came to Lucknam Park for a few days of work experience and I really enjoyed it – it was then I decided this would be my next step in my career. I joined as a commis in October 2017 and in the last two years have progressed to demi CDP and to CDP in June 2019.

For anyone who hasn’t been to Lucknam Park, can you describe it?

Amazing. From the moment you arrive at the gates at the bottom of the mile-long drive it feels like luxury. Everything has been thought about in great detail from the dining, spa, equestrian centre and the fantastic 500-acre estate.

The team are passionate about what they do with the aim to deliver the highest level of guest service being at the centre of it.

TAKE 5 JAMAAR SEMPER-HOUSE

Chef de partie (CDP) at Lucknam Park’s Michelinstarred Restaurant Hywel Jones, Jamaar was recently crowned South West Young Professional Chef of the Year 2019

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

Tell us about your job. What does a day in the life at Lucknam Park look like?

The day normally starts with making a round of coffees for everyone in the kitchen to get us all started for the day ahead. Then I start prep for the day – whether it’s prepping meat or filleting fish, there are always challenging jobs to be completed during the day. Once most of the prep is complete, all the kitchen team come together and enjoy a meal before service.

What’s the best part?

I’m constantly learning every day.

I’m able to learn a new skill or different technique. One of the best things is the people that I work with – we’re all really close and it’s great to come to work and enjoy spending time with friends.

And the worst?

There’s not much I don’t like about my job, but I’m not a morning person so getting up for the breakfast shifts is definitely the worst part.

Are there any myths about being a chef you’d like to see dispelled?

We do work long days, but life in the kitchen is not like people think it is. There is a real team spirit and it’s all about supporting your friends in the brigade. It’s like another family where we look out for each other.

To deliver the quality of food and service we do on a daily basis, you have to work as a team.

What’s your favourite thing to cook (and eat!)?

Lasagne is probably my favourite food to cook – it’s very simple but I love how the flavours remind me of when I started helping my mum cook. It always brings back good memories.

“Life in the kitchens is not like people think” What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given during your career?

Get the foundations right. You need to learn all the skills and work through the ranks. Don’t leap frog positions as the gaps will show later on.

Who inspires you?

Hywel Jones has been a great inspiration in my career as he has mentored me to become the chef I am today. The respect that he has in the industry and in the hotel is incredible. I’m always able to speak with Chef about ideas I have and he’s always there to listen and direct me. One of the things that inspires me about Chef is his ability to bring the whole team together and push us to work to our full potential.

For more: www.lucknampark.co.uk

A REAL MOROCCAN RESTAURANT, BATH

Experience real Moroccan food cooked and served in a distinctive and traditional manner together with genuine warm hospitality in absolutely beautiful Moroccan surroundings.

CHRISTMAS PARTY BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN

ARABIC & FRESH MINT TEA AND BAKLAVA • SHISHA PIPE • BAZAAR SHOP 1A North Parade Bath, BA11LF Reservations: 01225 839822 Enquiries: 01225 466437 WWW.TAGINEZHOR.CO.UK

ADVERTISING FEATURE

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTIES

EIGHT STONY STREET

8 Stony Street, Frome BA111BU 01373 470970; www.eightstonystreet.com Heralding in the new year can be celebrated in so many ways, but at Eight Stony Street they love to keep things simple and gorgeous. Gorgeous food, gorgeous wine and a bit of a dance!

Bring friends, family, the neighbour – whatever takes your fancy.

They have a special offer of £35 per head which includes: drink on arrival (from 8pm), gorgeous sharing boards a meal of sumptuous favourites, dessert and DJ Natty Turner providing the tunes till late.

Please go to the website for full details and booking.

End 2019 on the right note…

MANDALYNS

Fountain Buildings, 13 Lansdown Rd, Bath BA1 5DX 01225 425403; contact@mandalyns.co.uk; www.mandalyns.co.uk Mandalyns Bath is the sole gay bar for Bath’s ever growing nightlife, and she has celebrated 18 years of crowning Bath with her colourful attire!

Camptastic and fun, the party bar knows how to celebrate in style, especially on New Year’s Eve. Enter with a free glass of prosecco, prize giveaways, party-cannons, Happy Hour during midnight celebrations, party-poppers at hand, confetti at the ready, glitter on the go, and THE EVER SO FABULOUS DJ ADAM keeping those feet moving.

What more could you ask for?

Tickets now on sale – visit the website BOOK A VIP BOOTH – EMAIL NOW

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NEW YEAR’S EVE BALL AT T H E RO M A N BAT H S A N D P U M P RO O M 7. 45pm – 1. 30 a m Pump Room: £150 | Terrace: £135 | Reception Hall: £127.50 | Kingston Room: £110

Count down to 2020 in spectacular style! Dust off your finest suit and bring out that ballgown – join us at the Roman Baths and Pump Room for an unforgettable start to the New Year!

Begin the evening with a sparkling reception around the torch-lit Roman Baths, before moving upstairs for an indulgent five-course dinner with half a bottle of wine, followed by live music and midnight celebrations.

Buy tickets now at: searcys-bath.designmynight.com For more information, call 01225 444477

FLAG

RECIPE

MUSHROOM, LENTIL & RED WINE WELLINGTON Serves 4-6

An ideal veggie centrepiece to your Christmas feast from Riverford Home Delivery, Bath

Š 2018 RIVERFORD ORGANIC FARMERS LTD

Ingredients

4 large Portobello mushrooms 1 onion, finely dice 1 carrot, finely diced 1 celery stick, finely dice 1 tin cooked dark/puy lentils 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 large sprig of rosemary, finely chopped 1 tbsp soy sauce 100ml red wine 300g puff pastry 150g baby spinach 1 egg, beaten

84 MEDIACLASH.CO.UK

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 200ËšC/Gas 6. Toss the mushrooms in a roasting tray with 2 tbsp of oil and a generous seasoning of salt and pepper. Bake for 20 mins. Remove from the tray and place in the fridge to cool quickly.

Clean the tray.

2. While the mushrooms roast, warm 1 tbsp of oil in a saucepan and cook the onion, carrot and celery over a medium heat for 10 mins, until starting to soften. Meanwhile, drain and rinse the lentils in a sieve.

3. Add the garlic, rosemary, lentils, soy sauce and red wine to the veg, along with 100ml of water. Cook over a medium heat for 10 mins, until most of the liquid has disappeared and the lentils have become mushy. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper to taste. Pop into the fridge to cool.

4. Roll out the pastry into a rectangle about 3mm thin, roughly the size of an A4 sheet.

Lay it on the clean baking tray and return it

to the fridge to stay cold.

5. Wash the spinach. Place it in saucepan over a high heat until just wilted, about 30 secs. Cool immediately under cold water.

Drain, squeeze out any excess water, and roughly chop it.

6. To build the Wellington, spread the cooled lentil mix evenly over the pastry, leaving a 2cm gap along one long edge.

Place the mushrooms, stems up, in a line down the centre and pack them with chopped spinach. Brush the exposed pastry edge with a little water. Gently lift it up and over to completely encase the mushrooms, pressing the damp edge down to seal.

Crimp the open ends closed. Brush with a little beaten egg and lightly score the top with a sharp knife. Cut 2 or 3 vent holes in the top to let the steam escape. Transfer to the oven and bake for 20-25 mins, until golden and cooked through.

For more: www.riverford.co.uk

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FLAG RECIPE CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT BROWNIES Serves 12

We love these vegan nutty chocolate brownies, as suggested by Demuths Ingredients

7. Stir in the flour, baking powder and ground hazelnuts and mix thoroughly to ensure no lumps of flour are visible.

8. Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin and bake in the pre-heated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the brownies are set on the sides, cracking slightly but still soft to the touch in the middle.

9. Leave to cool, then chill in the fridge before cutting into squares.

10. To serve, drizzle with melted dark chocolate, a dusting of cocoa powder and maybe even some caramel hazelnuts.

For more: www.demuths.co.uk

© ROB WICKS EAT PICTURES

150g dark chocolate 50g margarine 50g coconut oil 3 tbsp chia seeds 9 tbsp water 100g soft dates (or soaked to soften) 150g soft brown sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 75g plain gluten free flour blend 50g ground hazelnuts 1 ¼ tsp baking powder

Method

1. Pre-heat the oven to 195ºC/175ºFan/Gas5.

2. Line a 20cm x 20cm square cake or brownie tin with baking parchment.

3. Melt the chocolate, margarine and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl above a pan filled one third full of simmering water.

4. In a separate pan, heat the chia seeds in the 9 tbsp of water and bring to a gentle simmer for a few minutes, leave to thicken and cool down.

5. Blend the dates with the sugar until smooth, then stir into the melted chocolate mixture.

6. Add the chia seed mixture and vanilla and stir well to combine.

85 IMEDIACLASH.CO.UK 98 BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

HOP IDOL

Padstow Christmas Festival is about beer, food, chefs’ workshops, beer, kitchen demos, more beer, Cornish pasties, fine dining, ales, stout, cider. And beer.

Christmas is really for the kids, after all

By Deri Robins

I

GREAT ESCAPES

f it doesn’t snow during December, it can be hard to get into full-on festive mode. Those faux-Eastern European Christmas markets do their best, with gluhwein and so forth, but when it rains, which it generally does, the overwhelming impression is of a garden centre that has unaccountably relocated to Broadmead.

Instead, head ye to the Padstow Christmas Festival, where they have yuletide magic on tap. Once again, Sharp’s Brewery is the main sponsor; based just across the Camel Estuary in Rock, the brewery will have its full complement of beers on offer, as well as running the Sharp’s Kitchen food demos. Chief Brewer Andrew Madden will be on-site to answer all your hop-related questions such as, “Beer, Andrew – it isn’t just for breakfast any more, is it?”

Andrew has been working all year finalising the seasonal range for the brewery’s 25th anniversary. “The rebrand of our Pilsner, Offshore, has really breathed new life into the range, so we’re just ensuring we can keep up with demand,,” he says. “That’s alongside our core cask products, such as the UK’s number one cask beer, Doom Bar. All the while we’re sustaining our trademark consistency and quality – all in a day’s work.” And if that sounds just a teensy bit corporate-speak, Andrew delivers it with the kind of unbounded enthusiasm that makes you want to head for the nearest Cornish bar.

The Doom Bar is named after the notoriously perilous sandbank in the estuary – still a navigational challenge today. The bitter is the brewery’s flagship, award-winning product; arguably best enjoyed when quaffed at the one-off Doom Bar sessions on the moored-up Jubilee Queen. We had a blast on the boat last year, when Huey “Yo, folks, I did not take a four-hour train trip to come out on a mother***ing boat and f**k up, I’m playing all the tunes tonight for y’all” Morgan gave us his trademark funk and disco set. Unaccustomed as we were to grooving in wellies while standing on a bench, hanging onto nautical plumbing, our calves knew all about it the next day.

Unlike many breweries, Sharp’s doesn’t own or run any pubs, hotels or restaurants. Its thing is brewing beer. But it does run a joint venture with Paul Ainsworth – the Mariners public house in Rock, Nathan Outlaw’s former gaff. With views across the estuary, this is the perfect place to sample Sharp’s full range of drinks and the Ainsworth cuisine.

Pilseners, stout, brown ale, pale ale – basically, all your favourite hop idols. As you sip an Atlantic Pale, you can tuck into a breaded hake,

pickled vegetables and herb mayonnaise. The oysters are plucked from the shore a couple of hundred yards away, and the smoked fish chowder is a broth of particular note. Just the thing if you’ve marched smartly along the South West Coast Path which runs on both sides of the estuary. Just the thing, to be honest, if you haven’t bothered.

But if you’re not a fish aficionado, you could try the Philip Warren bangers, mustard mash and slow-cooked onion and parsley gravy. Goes perfectly with a Sharp’s dark ale.

Another excellent place to experience and savour Sharp’s products is the teeny tiny Secret Bar at the Padstow Christmas Festival. Obviously I can’t divulge too much, what with it being secret and that, but if you find it, you’ll be treated to an immersive experience and a selection of Sharp’s more innovative beers. Each beer is paired with a tapa or mini dish, which after tasting, sipping, and then tasting again, changes the conception of the taste of both food and beer. If you don’t know much about beer, the Secret Bar is a revelation, and an almost spiritual way of looking forward to Christmas. Knocks gluhwein into a cocked Santa hat, frankly.

On a larger scale, and new to the Festival this year, is the Cornish Silent Bistro; a unique 60-seater dining experience, pairing beer and food to music through headphones, raising the tasting senses and providing a new route to combining beer and food.

Nearby, the huge, mostly indoor market with over 100 stalls will be a boon for those still looking for that elusive present. Remember, there will only be 19 shopping days left till Christmas (or, if you’re like my partner, just one: Christmas Eve). On offer will be everything from arts and crafts to tantalisingly street food; you’ll have the opportunity more than once to say, “What the hell, it’s Christmas”.

Finally, should you be visiting the Christmas Market and need a place to stay, the St Moritz Hotel in Trebetherick, overlooking the Camel Estuary, is your only man. Dominating the headland between the towns of Rock and Polzeath, the St Moritz combines an insouciant air of Modernist cool with friendly, laidback Cornish hospitality; it’s the perfect place to recover from a day’s shopping, beer sampling and Christmas festivities.

“Beer, Andrew – it isn’t just for breakfast any more, is it?”

The Padstow Christmas Festival 2019 sponsored by Sharp’s Brewery runs 5-8 December at Padstow Harbour; www.padstowchristmasfestival.co.uk St Moritz Hotel; www.stmoritzhotel.co.uk

left: Add sea shanties and mulled ale in ancient inns, and you pretty much have Christmas-on-Sea

above left: The indoor market sells all your festive foodie essentials, along with stuff you didn’t even realise you wanted

above middle and right: Prepare to meet thy Doom: Huey’s not playing the Queen this year, but keep your eye on the Festival website for other delights

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Finding a voice

A big part of the work of Bath-based charity VOICES involves campaigning and raising awareness about domestic abuse

N

Above: The White Ribbon Campaign took place in November.

Below: Human Rights Day is celebrated on 10th December

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

ovember and December are two big months for VOICES; White Ribbon Day, The UN 16 Days of Activism and Human Rights Day are all coming up. What are these days, we hear you ask? We’re here to give

you a run down!

Human Rights Day marks the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a milestone document that proclaimed the inalienable rights which everyone is inherently entitled to as a human being – regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status.

The White Ribbon Campaign is a global movement of men and boys working to end male violence against women and girls. It was formed by a group of pro-feminist men in Canada in November 1991 as a response to the École Polytechnique massacre of female students by Marc Lépine in 1989. At VOICES we encourage our staff, volunteers, clients and supporters to wear a white ribbon during November to show support for this global campaign.

If you can support our work, please visit our Localgiving page (www.localgiving.org/charity/voices/) and donate whatever you can. A donation of £10 pays for individual course materials for the Freedom Programme, £30 pays for a legal advice session, £100 pays for a group’s course materials and £1000 pays for creche facilities for an entire Freedom Programme, enabling several women with young children to attend this life-changing course.

The UN 16 Days of Activism is an annual international campaign that starts on 25 November with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day. We’re launching our 16 Days of Activism Campaign with a free screening of Rattle Snake (tickets available via bit.ly/33xBhss), a powerful drama about the impact of coercive control created by Open Clasp Theatre Company. Each day we will be sharing stories, poems and artwork from people who have experienced domestic abuse to highlight the human impact of abuse and how important creativity is for recovery.

Useful links: www.whiteribbon.org.uk/ www.unwomen.org/en/what-we-do/ending-violenceagainst-women/take-action/16-days-of-activism www.un.org/en/events/humanrightsday/ ■

Human Rights Day marks the day in 1948 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This year,

01225 420 249 info@voicescharity.org www.voicescharity.org

SERVICES GUIDE HOME CARE

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It’s the city’s business

BATHWORKS THIS ISSUE >>NEW OWNER FOR CIRCOBAR (105) >>LUXURY MENSWEAR AT BENEDICT RAVEN (107) >>CONSCIOUSLY YOU (108) Curo’s Becky Davies, Victor da Cunha and Rachael Allen are presented with their plaques

Circo Bar and Lounge on George Street has a new owner.

Known for its basement location, lux interiors and extensive bar, Circo’s owners, The Halcyon Group decided to sell the leasehold in order to focus on other areas of their business portfolio. The bar has now been acquired by Mike Philips; an industry professional with a decade’s worth of senior roles in the licenced sector behind him and a long-term resident of the city. The sale was completed by Christie & Co. “This is an exciting time for Circo and for Bath. It’s as important as ever to continually adapt to the city’s everchanging and evolving tastes, and I am looking forward to working with my team to bring in new ideas and maximise this unique venue’s great potential,” says Mike. As he steps into leadership, expect to see changes to the menu along with some new brand names – think Asahi beers – on the shelves. “We are also changing our opening hours so that we are catering to a wider demographic during the week. I am confident that these improvements alongside a long list of other changes we are planning to implement, will only reinforce Circo’s reputation as the best bar in Bath.”

For more: www.circobar.co.uk Circobar has a new owner

© DAVID MCGIRR

A SAFE PAIR OF HANDS

Like a broken record Staff at Curo have broken their own fundraising record. The Bath-based housing association has raised £17,000 so far this year for Bath Royal United Hospital’s (RUH) Forever Friends Appeal.

“The money they have raised has gone towards the new Dyson Cancer Centre, as well as the Children’s Ward,” explains Jo Common, corporate officer for the Forever Friends Appeal. “We are so pleased to be able to welcome Curo on board as one of our wonderful Senior Corporate Partners, and would like to thank each and every member of the team at Curo for their support in helping care for our patients here at

the RUH.” This is the second year running that staff at Curo have chosen to support the hospital.

“We were thrilled to find out we’ve been awarded Senior Corporate Partner status by the Forever Friends Appeal for raising more than £25,000 over the past two years for hospital,” says Curo communications and brand manager, Rachael Allen. “We’ve taken part in lots of fundraising activities including the Forever Friends Walk of Life, bake sales, raffles, quizzes, dressdowns and dress-ups, half-marathons and, most recently, the RUH’s ‘Grow £20’ challenge.”

For more: www.curo-group.co.uk

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 115

BATHWORKS

NEW to Bath Meet the new characters on the Bath business scene

LEARN BY DOING

SPONSORED BY

Over 100 University of Bath students teamworking, planning, leadership are working hard with local charities and project management skills, and and not-for-profit organisations. In encouraging them to feel part of the an initiative sponsored by FTSE 250 wider Bath community,” says Jo Parry, company, Rotork PLC, the students student experience officer. from the School of Management are For more: www.bath.ac.uk completing tasks set by 14 local charities Panagiota Gkotsi as part of the Rotork and Sohail Munshi Community Challenge – all to be finished by early December. The results of each challenge will be judged by business and management experts, and the winning project will receive a donation from ROTORK. “The Rotork Community Challenge benefits local charities but also brings School of Management students together, fostering their

www.mooreswit.co.uk 01225 486100 Leighton House was designed

by Bella and her mum

LEIGHTON HOUSE

Nominations are now open – so get writing!

© SOUL MEDIA

After the success of her first B&B, Tyndall Villa, owner Bella has recently opened her second, Leighton House, only a stone’s throw away.

IN IT TO WIN IT Nominations for the 2020 Bath Life Awards are in full swing, and businesses of all varieties from the local area have started sending in applications to make their case for victory. We’re gearing up for another record year of entries.

Don’t forget that companies can enter multiple categories via a form on the website, and it’s completely free to enter.

Winners are decided by a professional panel of independent judges, and finalists are announced on 15 January.

“Timing is everything,” says Steph

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

Dodd, events director at MediaClash.

“Don’t sell your business short by leaving your nomination to the last minute. No matter your offering, make sure to enter Bath’s best business celebration.”

Due to massive demand, there won’t be tickets available on open sale for the Awards, which are held on 27 February – priority for tickets is given to finalists.

For more information on how to craft the best entry, get in touch with the Awards team events@mediaclash.co.uk For more: Bathlifeawards.co.uk @bathlifeawards

Tell us about the new B&B Leighton House is my second business, with another 10 beautiful bedrooms.

We are pleased with the project as all the interior was designed by myself and my mum. We like the look of a traditional British house; we often go to antique markets to collect pieces to decorate the property.

Have you faced many challenges?

There are a few other B&Bs and hotels along Wells Road so it is competitive, but with lots of tourists coming to Bath every year, demand for accommodation is always high.

How do you compete with Airbnb?

Airbnb has become more popular as it gives guests the sorts of spaces that they couldn’t find in a hotel and the ‘home away from home’ feeling. The difference between us and Airbnb, though, is we provide service too. A freshly cooked breakfast in the morning and housekeeping during the day so when they come back the room is nice and clean again.

For more: www.leightonhousebath.co.uk

BATH SPORTS NEWS Bringing you the latest in sporting news

Aodhagán Conlon collects Jockey Club Achievement Award and £3000 prize from the Davis family and British Horseracing Authority chair Annamarie Phelps

JOCKEY FOR POSITION Former jump jockey, Aodhagán Conlon has won The Jockey Club Achievement Award. The University of Bath student was presented the £3,000 JETS Richard Davis Award at Cheltenham Racecourse by the Davis family and British Horseracing Authority chair Annmarie Phelps.

Aodhagán was a jump jockey for nine years, clocking up 36 winners, largely while working with Jump trainers Rebecca Curtis and Tom George. Always curious about the psychological side of racing, Aodhagán used JETS to fund a psychology degree at Bath Spa University, from which he graduated with first class honours.

After completing a Masters in Sports and Exercise Psychology at the University of the West of England, he began working on a PhD at University of Bath.

“I was never able to have the level of success I wanted as a jockey but after what will be seven years of training, I feel that I’m well on my way to achieving my dream of being able to support athletes at an elite level,” says Aodhagán. “The

skills that I’ve developed as a jockey have definitely helped me achieve the academic success and my experiences have helped inform all the work that I’ve done with jockeys and athletes from other sports.”

For more: www.jets-uk.org

VANQUISHED BY SWORD University of Bath-based wheelchair fencing world champions Dimitri Coutya and Piers Gilliver have added even more gold medals to their collection.

The pair recently won three between them at the International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Federation World Championships – meaning the duo has now won medals in 19 out of 20 of the events they’ve competed in this year.

In a satisfying turn, Dimitri was able to redeem a previous defeat at the hands of Yanke Feng, beating him 15–10 in the semi-finals before going on to also beat Daoliang Hu to earn his gold medal.

Piers meanwhile won the Category A epee gold, emulating the success he enjoyed at September’s World Championships.

For more: www.teambath.co.uk/fencing

BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC

From networking breakfasts to invaluable evening courses, make a note of the courses and classes that will help your business flourish 10 DECEMBER CREATIVE BATH INSPIRES: CHRIS ANDERSON The boss at TED, Chris Anderson is coming to Bath to announce a major new initiative. Creative Bath is sworn to secrecy, but one thing they can guarantee is that it’s going to make for a seriously interesting evening. The sponsor for the event is Play Sports Network, founded and run by a former Future senior executive, Simon Wear.

5.30-8pm; various prices; Walcot House www.creativebath.org 13 DECEMBER PROPERTY NETWORKING COFFEE CLUB An informal gathering, the regular Networking Coffee Club in Frome allows property investors and professionals in the area to come together, warm up with a coffee and share best practice – and make some valuable new connections.

3-5pm; Frome Flyer, www.eventbrite.co.uk 19 DECEMBER WORKING LUNCH Frome Town Council has launched a brand new networking event. The very first Frome Working Lunch will be on the subject of bringing creativity into the workplace, with guest speaker Patrick Dunn. A former creative consultant, Patrick will reflect on his 25 years of helping businesses become more creative – as well as his decade of actually being an artist.

12-1.30pm; £10; Frome Town Hall; www. frometowncouncil.gov.uk

James Kingston created Benedict Raven for the modern man

SUITED AND BOOTED

James Kingston, known as managing director of multi award-winning recruitment consultancy Kingston Barnes has turned his focus to menswear. His new venture, Benedict Raven just opened its very first shop on New Bond Street (more on that on page 22). Frustrated by the lack of options on the market, James launched the luxury brand to meet the fashion needs of the modern man. Made in Bristol and London, James describes the clothing line as the Aston Martin of menswear; limited runs of the highest quality garments designed to last season after season, with a price tag to match.

While the company has been selling online for about a year, the platform left much to be desired in terms of experience. In the new shop, a purchase is an event. Complete with lounge area, bar and, we are assured, the best coffee – in addition to offering its clientele the opportunity to get a feel for the garments before purchasing – it invites you to stay a while.

For more: www.benedictraven.co.uk

RISING STAR

Danielle Rolt of MHA Monahans’ Bath office has been awarded a Railton Prize for achieving top results in her Business Strategy and Technology professional paper for the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). She joined Monahans two years after graduating from the University of the West of England with a first class degree in Accounting and Finance. MHA Monahans prides itself on investing in the future of its trainees, with a clear career path and structured progression and development programme in place.

For more: www.monahans.co.uk

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BATHWORKS ONE TO WATCH

Ann Perry Consciously You on Chelsea Road is filled with all of the ingredients for living a more sustainable life. Owner Ann tells us more about her ecofriendly journey…

Tell us about Consciously You

Our mission is to provide people with the opportunity to change their lifestyles. It’s unrealistic to think that we can all change a lifetime of buying habits overnight, but by providing sustainable, eco-friendly products that are produced by like-minded individuals and companies, we give our customers eco alternatives to everyday products – without breaking the bank.

What inspired you to open an eco-friendly shop?

I have had an amazing career as a retail area manager for some high street giants, but my dream has always been to own a business that I was passionate about. There has been a real shift in consumer attitudes in the last few years, and I felt as though there wasn’t a shop in Bath that offered people the eco-friendly lifestyle products they were looking for.

How do you choose which products to stock?

For me, it’s about choosing products that I’m proud to sell.

High-quality, eco-friendly, cruelty-

free items, often locally sourced with little or no packaging.

I research and handpick every single product on the shelves so that I can be confident that we are offering our customers complete transparency.

which products are less damaging to the environment. Sometimes it’s more about reducing waste and becoming more sustainable, and less about worrying whether a product is ‘perfect’.

How can people determine truly sustainable products from good marketing?

I have worked all over the UK but Bath is my home. Chelsea Road is a real hub of activity; with lots of cafés, greengrocers, beauty salon and a new art studio. There is a real sense of community, and that’s something that is very important to me.

My top tip: do your research.

Good marketing might catch your attention, but try to look past the face of it and delve deeper. Read the ingredients, find out where it’s made and take note of the packaging. The more information you have about a product, the wiser you can be when making the decision to buy.

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in setting up Consciously You?

Sourcing products that are truly sustainable can be a challenge.

It’s more than just the products itself; it’s how and where it’s been made, the packaging and what happens to it after it’s been used.

I’ve found that the more I educate myself the easier it is to spot

Why Bath?

What are three habits people can change right now to lead a more sustainable life?

Buy less, but buy better. Rather than purchasing disposable products time and time again, try switching to something that can be used more than once. Our washable make up remover pads are the perfect example – invest now and save your future pennies (and the planet!).

Start small. It’s overwhelming – and unrealistic – to immediately become 100 per cent sustainable, so make small steps, one at a time.

Swap your plastic toothbrush for a bamboo one, or change your bottled hand wash to a bar of soap instead.

Try something new. Take a moment and think about your purchase before you make it – are you just buying something because it’s the brand or make you usually go for?

Why not try a new re-fillable cleaning product, or an organic, eco-friendly shampoo?

And what about outside of work? What do you like to get up to on your days off?

I love watching Bath play at the Rec, going to yoga classes and baking at home.

What are your biggest hopes and fears for 2020?

I have ambitious plans for Consciously You next year.

A second store, a new website, and an exciting secret project in the pipeline.

For more: @consciouslyyoubath on Instagram

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The tax benefits of making pension contributions

Jacqui Bowden from Bath-based chartered accountants and tax advisers PEARSON MAY neatly summarises the benefits for personal pension holders…

T

he tax benefits of making pension contributions can be significant and although there have not been any major changes in this area in recent years, it is always useful to recap the main tax benefits. This article looks at personal pensions. These can be set up by individuals, or employers can set up group personal pension plans.

Personal Pension Contributions As a reminder, Personal Pension Contributions made by individuals are paid ‘net’ of basic rate income tax (20 per cent) since HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) pay the 20 per cent tax into the pension scheme. For example, if you pay £8,000 in to your pension scheme during the year, HMRC will add £2,000 to that, giving a total (‘gross’) contribution to your pension scheme of £10,000.

For basic rate taxpayers therefore (those with total income of up to £50,000 for the tax year ending 5 April 2020), there is no additional tax saving by making pension contributions, since tax relief is given at source.

Higher rate taxpayers however can claim an extra 20 per cent of the gross contribution from HMRC. Using the example above, a higher rate taxpayer can claim an additional £2,000 from HMRC on the £8,000 contribution paid. For additional rate taxpayers (those with taxable

Jacqui Bowden, a partner at Pearson May

income above £150,000 for the year), the extra relief would be £2,500. Higher and additional rate taxpayers can therefore benefit from potentially significant tax savings by making pension contributions. It is wise to consider the benefits of making additional pension contributions before 5 April each year. This is particularly relevant for those individuals who might be in danger of falling foul of the High Income Child Benefit Charge (income over £50,000) or a marginal income tax rate of 60 per cent on a slice of their income above £100,000 (due to the gradual loss of the personal tax allowance).

other means e.g. by way of dividends. By doing this, it does limit the level of personal pension contributions on which tax relief can be claimed.

In this situation, consideration can be given to the company making an employer pension contribution to a pension scheme for the director(s). This is also tax efficient since such contributions will usually qualify for Corporation Tax relief, currently at 19 per cent. The annual allowance of £40,000 as mentioned above applies to contributions made by individuals and employers, so this would still need to be considered when thinking about the level of contribution to make.

Is there a limit to the amount of pension contributions I can make?

There is no financial limit on the amount that may be contributed to a registered pension scheme but there is a limit on the amount on which an individual can claim tax relief. This limit is the greater of: (a) the individual’s UK ‘relevant earnings’ for the tax year (broadly, the level of their salary and/or self-employment/partnership income); and (b) £3,600 (gross).

Furthermore, there is an overriding annual allowance of £40,000, meaning that any contributions which exceed £40,000 (gross) in the tax year will suffer a tax charge on the excess.

This annual allowance is reduced for high earners, tapered by £1 for every £2 that an individual’s income exceeds £150,000 (subject to a minimum allowance of £10,000). ‘Carry forward’ provisions are available whereby an individual who has been a member of a pension scheme for the relevant years in question can contribute more than £40,000 (and receive tax relief thereon) by making use of any ‘unused’ annual allowances from the previous three tax years.

Although beyond the scope of this article, there is also a ‘lifetime allowance’ (currently circa £1m) which limits the amount of pension benefit that can be drawn without triggering a tax charge. There are also restrictions on the level of pension contributions that can be made when an individual is already in drawdown on a pension.

Are there any other tax benefits?

Income and capital growth generated within registered pension schemes are exempt from income tax and capital gains tax.

It will also be appreciated from the above that one of the main benefits for higher and additional rate taxpayers in making pension contributions is to receive tax relief during their working lives which may be at a higher rate (hopefully) than the resulting pension income will be subject to in retirement.

With the new flexible pension rules it can also be much easier to transfer pension pots on death to other family members without triggering significant tax charges in doing so.

Pension funds can also be free of Inheritance Tax (IHT) if they are suitably written in trust, so that they remain outside one’s estate on death.

Pensions should therefore form an important part of any IHT and estate planning.

Specific advice in relation to pension schemes should be obtained from your pension adviser or an independent financial adviser. The above is for general guidance only and no action should be taken without obtaining specific advice. ■

What about contributions from my own limited company?

It is relatively common tax planning for those operating their businesses through limited companies to receive a modest salary from their company and ‘top up’ their income by

Jacqui Bowden Bsc (Hons) ACA Pearson May Chartered Accountants & Chartered Tax Advisers Bath, Chippenham and Trowbridge 37 Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DA 01225 460491; mail@pearsonmay.co.uk www.pearsonmay.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 111

A PLACETO CALL HOME

PROPERTY A PL ACE TO C ALL HOME

51 PRIOR PARK ROAD

Living in a beautiful place can have a transformative effect on your happiness levels.

This property could be just the ticket...

By Rachel Ifans www.mediaclash.co.uk MEDIACLASH.CO.UK I BATH LIFE I 141 113

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PROPERTY

I

don’t know if you saw it in the news earlier this year but a scientific study proved – for the first time – that living in beautiful surroundings makes people happier. And the study wasn’t talking about areas of natural beauty, it was all about built-up areas, towns and cities.

Okay, so it’s the kind of study that just proves what you’ve always thought (cue the “I could have told them that!” response), especially when you live somewhere like Bath. Honestly, whether I’m walking home from work in the rain, skittering along the icy canal path on an early-morning run, or blasting my lungs walking up to the Skyline – even when I’ve got the weekly shop in precariously-balanced bags hanging off my handlebars – there’s rarely a day when I don’t actively get a buzz

from the beauty of Bath.

This issue’s Property Showcase should have been a case study for that piece of research. 51 Prior Park Road, a house almost slap bang in the middle of a city, at risk of all the bugbears of urban living (ahem, the traffic!) and yet…

Well, it’s good-looking for a start, gorgeous from the outside – a semi-detached elegant villa (*yells* it has shutters!) – and with lots of period features on the inside (stone fireplaces, wooden floors, architraves, wooden bannisters and sash windows). It has a driveway and a garden (happiness quota sky-rockets at thought of no street parking) and it’s right on the edge of both the amenities of town and the wild rugged hills of southern Bath.

The Grade-II listed, three-bedroomed house is well-proportioned as it is, with drawing room, dining room, morning room and study downstairs as well as kitchen, utility room and larder. The first floor has a master bedroom at the front and two other equalsized bedrooms at the back of the house. The family bathroom is a good size too with shower and separate bath and still plenty of floor space where your teenagers can throw their wet towels and leave toothpaste tubes capless for you to stand on and squirt yourself with later (or is that just my family?).

The decoration is tasteful and there are lovely touches like a parquet floor here, one of those chunky, old-style radiators there. And No.51’s garden is the perfect

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PROPERTY

triumvirate of lush green lawn, well-established shrubs and sunny stone patio.

For me, that’s by far enough house to keep clean and tidy, but if you hanker after a bit more space to breathe, or are having a Grand Designs moment, the current owners have secured planning permission for internal and external alterations to No.51 which would enlarge the kitchen space, add a bedroom and shower room, and adapt a garden store to be a home office too.

Honestly, I feel happier just writing about No. 51 Prior Park Road... imagine if I actually lived there...

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HOUSE NUMBERS Square footage 1632

Price

Bedrooms 3

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

Bathroom 1 Extras Driveway and garden

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Celebrate Christmas in a stunning new home Give your family the ultimate gift this Christmas – move in to a beautiful new home at MULBERRY PARK, the award-winning residential development in Combe Down

W

ith its ultra-modern community facilities including a family-friendly café – good transport links, new primary school, nursery and an inclusive new park opening in 2022, Mulberry Park is firmly establishing its reputation as one of the most desirable locations to live in Bath.

Curo have released a collection of two, three and four-bedroom properties at Mulberry Park available for reservation now, with the threebedroom ‘Portland’ homes ready to welcome their owners before Christmas.

The ‘Portland’ properties are ideal for family life, featuring a contemporary kitchen/dining area with separate living room, WC and utility room to the ground floor, with a master bedroom with en-suite, two further bedrooms, a family bathroom and plenty of storage space occupying the upper floor.

“Home buyers can see for themselves what these beautiful properties have to offer. Our ‘Portland’ Show Home is available to view every

day from 10:00am to 5:30pm – just call in to our Marketing Suite on Bradford Road where our friendly, award-winning team will be on hand to give you a guided tour,” says Lisa Howells, Curo sales director. “If you’re ready for a new home right now, why not take advantage of our ‘plot of the month’ offer*, a three-bed, mid-terraced ‘Portland’ home with a generous garden and two parking spaces. This property comes with stamp duty already paid, £1,000 towards legal fees and flooring, making it even easier to move in to before the festive season.”

Prices at Mulberry Park start at £299,995, with the ‘Portland’ houses starting at £399,995.

Mulberry Park properties are also available with Help to Buy, the government’s Equity Loan scheme that lends home buyers up to 20 per cent of the value of a new build home.

“In addition, our Swift Move and Smooth Move schemes are in place to further simplify the process of moving home for existing homeowners, by either helping them to sell their current property at market value while saving money on estate agent

fees, advertising and marketing costs, or directly part exchange their current home for a new one at Mulberry Park,” Lisa adds.

“There are only a handful of ‘Portland’ homes available to purchase and occupy before Christmas within this fantastic new community. If you’ve been dreaming of a stylish, spacious new home for your family, that’s also low maintenance, warm and energy efficient, why not make that wish a reality now and enjoy the benefits of a new-build home this winter.” ■ *Offer on selected plot only. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability.

Stamp duty offer not available to second home purchasers.

Visit Curo’s Marketing Suite on Bradford Road (BA2 5BZ) daily from 10:00am until 5:30pm.

For more information, go to www.curo-sales.co.uk or call 0345 140 5050.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Should you stage your rental apartment?

B

Peter Greatorex from THE APARTMENT COMPANY advises…

ath’s rental market is fast paced and strong, and to achieve a consistently good return it’s important you do all you can to attract potential tenants.

Apartments that are well presented certainly have an edge when it comes to viewings, but should you stage a rental property?

WHY STAGE? Home-staging is often discussed in relation to apartments for sale, but less so when it comes to rental properties. You could be of the school of thought that it doesn’t matter, thus relying on the imagination of the tenants to do all the hard work. By doing so you are, in effect, allowing them to make presumptions about your apartment and its size that may be wrong and may influence their decision.

Not everyone can walk into a space and immediately understand its actual size and see its potential. For many of us, we need to see that a

double bed actually fits in the guest room with ease, that a three-seater sofa comfortably works against that wall and that yes, the kitchen will fit a table for dinner. You want tenants making decisions based on facts, not their initial interpretation of your apartment.

SHOULD I FURNISH? Just because tenants are looking for an unfurnished apartment doesn’t mean you can’t help them see what it would be like to live there. Filling your property with furniture is not a solution, as it’s a significant, costly and unnecessary undertaking.

What we at The Apartment Company would advise is to place a few key pieces in important rooms, thus providing your tenants with perspective.

They will know what the bedroom looks like with a double bed, instead of having to imagine it.

It can be easy to forget that rental properties aren’t just an investment, you are providing someone with a home. Just as buyers will search high and low for ‘the one’, the same goes for

tenants. In some ways even more so, as they need to be assured they will be cared for when they move in, too.

A well-presented apartment demonstrates your commitment to your investment, that you care for the property and want your tenants to make it their home. You understand the needs of your tenants and will do your best to make them feel safe and secure. It’s often the simplest of touches that can make the biggest difference.

Working with tenants every day, we know what wins and what can hinder. At The Apartment Company we want your rental property to win everytime. n

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

FOR THE HOME Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for winter

CLAIR STRONG INTERIOR DESIGN

Clair Strong Interior Design is a small, creative company based in Bath, providing a wide range of services for both residential and commercial clients. Her portfolio of projects includes the design, project coordination and sourcing for some of Bath’s most beautiful residences, as well as sports clubs, offices and other commercial venues.

Contact Clair on 01225 426906 or 07855 79731 www.clairstrong.co.uk

ALLSOP CARPETS

MENDIP FIREPLACES

ETONS OF BATH

BATH KITCHEN COMPANY

SHUTTERCRAFT SOMERSET

Bath’s leading fireplace, wood burner, gas fire, chimney and flue specialist. From classic to contemporary, concept to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include Chesney’s, Barbas Belfires, Hwam, Stuv and Jetmaster. Get in touch or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7HD. info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk, Tel: 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

Founded in 2006, Etons of Bath is the UK’s only specialist interior design practice focussed on refurbishing, renovating and reinvigorating Georgian and Regency homes and hotels. Their team of 12 interior designers, planners and project managers can help you design and deliver classically inspired interiors that add value, turn heads and improve the use of space.

Tel: 01225 639002; www.etonsofbath.com

Based in Frome, Allsop Carpets display an extensive range of floorings to match your style and budget.

With carpets and flooring available in a variety of designs, Brian Allsop and his team pride themselves on delivering excellent service from the beginning to end with over 35 years of professional experience.

Corner Garage, Christchurch Street West, Frome BA11 1EB; Tel: 01373 463866; www.allsopcarpets.co.uk

Based in the heart of Bath and specialising in bespoke, handmade kitchens, Bath Kitchen Company become personally invested in every kitchen they design and build. It’s about attention to detail at every stage – creating a beautiful space that enhances the way you live. 7-9 North Parade Buildings, Bath BA1 1NS; Tel: 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk

Shuttercraft Somerset provide premium madeto-measure shutters and blinds for your home.

Shuttercraft give you the best privacy whilst retaining style with a huge variety of colours and materials to choose from. Price matching available on like for like products from your local expert.

Contact your local expert, Simon today.

Tel: 01225 459 389; www.shutttercraft.co.uk

BONITI

CHEVERELL

LUCY COLLINS

Boniti is based on the outskirts of Bath and offers a wide range of quality interior and exterior products: natural stone and timber flooring, Everhot range cookers, garden furniture and Kadai firebowls. As well as the vast selection of products on offer, a friendly and personal service is at the heart of all that they do.

Dunsdon Barn, West Littleton,Wiltshire SN14 8JA; Tel: 01225 892 200; www.boniti.com

Cheverell is set in the heart of Wiltshire with a stunning showroom and workshop, offering a full bespoke design, manufacturing and installation service in kitchens, bedrooms, and interiors. Established in 1989 it has over 30 years of experience to guide you through the whole process. Cheverell, Waller Road, Hopton Park, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 2GH; Tel: 01380 722722; www.cheverell.co.uk

Inspired design and styling can excite & enhance our lives and enable us to feel nurtured and uplifted.

Whether it be redesigning the interior and exterior of a property, altering the colour palette, introducing a new style, changing soft furnishings, refreshing, replacing or decluttering – leave it to Lucy… The Coach House, Linden Gardens, Weston Road, Bath BA1 8DB; Tel: 07710 223285; www.lucycollins.me www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 121

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF…

“I’ve signed up for the Bath Half, so need to get back out for runs along the canal”

The Rector talks P.G. Wodehouse, table tennis, and Christmas at Bath Abbey When does your alarm go off?

My body clock wakes me without fail (almost) between 5 and 5.30am.

What is the first thing you do in the morning?

Put the heater on in my prayer room, make tea, then settle into an hour of silent prayer and spiritual reading – before waking my wife with a cuppa at 6.45am.

What do you have for breakfast?

Porridge in winter, muesli and yoghurt in summer.

How do you get to work?

Well, I like to think that I walk in to the Abbey …. but truth to tell, when the weather’s miserable, I give in and take the car (rather too often recently!)

What’s the first thing you do when you get to work?

Three or four of us gather for a

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short service of morning prayer, in a side chapel at 8.30am.

What does a typical morning look like?

Mondays and Thursdays are busy with meetings; Tuesday is a day off; Wednesday is usually a writing day (sermons, papers … or answering questionnaires for magazines!); Fridays and Saturdays might be pastoral visits, interviews with leaders around the city, staff consultations, or hosting events at the Abbey; then on Sundays we have three well attended morning services at the Abbey, each with a different flavour …

Are there any exciting projects you are working on?

We’re roughly half-way through our exciting “Footprint” building project, to restore the collapsing Abbey floor, add heating from hot spa water, and provide a complex of new underground facilities (such

also missing table tennis a lot, and promise myself I’ll join the local Bath league next season …

What’s the atmosphere like at the Abbey at Christmas?

What do you get up to on a typical evening?

Last December we welcomed some 40,000 people to the Abbey, 19,000 of whom came to services.

It’s a huge privilege to celebrate the coming of Jesus with our city and its visitors, and relies upon an amazing team effort by our congregation, staff and volunteers.

What are the challenges of your job?

Getting to know lots of lovely people in our city (and doing my best to remember their names).

Also at the moment leading a process for discerning future mission priorities for the Abbey – to help us live and tell the Good News of Jesus, with our congregation, city and visitors.

And the rewards?

… Again, getting to know lots of lovely people in our city, and doing my best to remember their names!

What do you do for lunch?

It’s usually a working lunch with colleagues (rudely eating my sandwiches while we set the world to rights together).

Abbey folk have been wonderfully welcoming to my wife and I, with lots of social invites (I’ve put on at least a stone as a result). We also really enjoy just being out and about in the city – concerts, plays, rugby, galleries, book launches…

Bath is such a cornucopia of delights, as this magazine never fails to demonstrate!

What do your supper plans normally involve?

Honestly? Whatever my wonderful wife has planned. (I know … I definitely don’t deserve her).

When is bed time?

Bed and a book around 10.30ish, lights out by 11pm … always preceded by a chapter of P.G. Wodehouse. This is me reading to my wife, who invariably falls asleep well before I’ve finished.

Neither of us can ever remember a thing about characters or plot the following night, which is part of the tradition! n For more: www.bathabbey.org

What might you do at work in the afternoon?

Similar pattern to the mornings really, interspersed with a scary amount of emails – but finishing with the calm of evening prayer at 5.30pm.

Do you fit in any time for exercise?

I’ve signed up for the Bath Half, so need to get back out for runs along the canal (thanks for the reminder – see answer above about fair-weather walking to work!) I’m

© BATH ABBEY

REVD CANON GUY BRIDGEWATER, RECTOR OF BATH ABBEY

as a discovery centre for visitors, a choir song school and an education centre for schools).