+ Stu to pimp up your yard / The Beautiful Future is Coming (we hope) / Court favourite in Backwell / Park Life Heroes / Meet Shindig’s ‘conscious showman’ / North by South West: it’s the Hitchcock classic, but not as you know it Don’t let the long hot summer pass you by
Look, if
you
want to dangle your legs off the edge of the Wharf during a Sounds gig then go right ahead. It’s your Bristol birthright. But wouldn’t you rather be with the cool kids on the other side of the stage?
Does Bristol and the South West have more festivals than other parts of the country? Oh, I don’t know, I haven’t made a spreadsheet. It does sometimes feel that way, though.
Bristol and festivals go hand in hand. It’s a festival kind of city, with a festival soul and energy. It takes only the smallest excuse for us to assemble outside en masse: pop-up party, protest, burger giveaway, d&b bike ride, riot, we’ll show up. Maybe it’s the knock-on effect of Glastonbury being so close by. If there was any justice in the world there’d be an early ticket release to all homes with a BS postcode; tell me you disagree.
But there’s obviously a lot more to festival season than a certain mega jamboree up the road. Between now and autumn there are dozens to choose from; music fests, food and drink fests, comedy fests, mindful fests, fests involving balloons or boats. Long weekend ones; dip-inand-out all-day ones.
If the prospect of going feral under canvas with thousands of other happy campers is your idea of nirvana then we’re preaching to the converted; move smartly to page 10 and start blocking out the diary. But I know it’s not for everyone. There are many (I’m trying not to say ‘like me’) who shudder delicately at the prospect of four days of enforced cheek-by-jowl merriment. Generally there seems to be no middle ground – nobody seems to ‘quite like’ going to festivals. That said, many a refusenik dragged kicking and screaming to its tent ends up undergoing a conversion, becoming the biggest pro-festival bore of all in the process.
However, the great thing about Bristol festivals is that there’s something to suit all styles. There are lots of opportunities to camp overnight if that’s your thing, but also plenty of one-day affairs which allow you to head home to your comfy bed. Take a look at our ten-page selection; I’d be amazed if you can’t find one at least one that doesn’t cater to your tastes.
If not, you could always start your own one.
DERI ROBINS Bristol Life editor @BristolLifeMag
ON THE COVER Feast returns to the Downs for its second year; for our full festival guide turn to page 10
10 THE MILD MILD FEST ’Tis the damn season
21 ARTS PAGE Future perfect, or imperfect?
22 WHAT’S ON Festivals are starting to take centre stage
30 THEATRE North by South West, if you get our drift
32 BRISTOL HEROES Did you enjoy the 420 party? Colin did
37 BOOKS Challenge your expectations
38 BENCHMARKS If the answer to the question about page 32 above is ‘no’ then you’ll probably prefer this
40 GREAT ESCAPES Falmouth: the nautical box-ticker
42 FOOD & DRINK News from the city’s best kitchens
45 CAFÉ SOCIETY Burra #3
47 WINE Charlie’s still in a South American frame of mind
48 ED’S CHOICE Pimp up your yard GARDENING
52 SUSTAINABLE GARDENS Tips to make your garden as green as grass
Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Colin Moody, Stan Cullimore, Storysmith Books, Charlie Taylor, Andy Hamilton Commercial director Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial manager Neil Snow neil.snow@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Charlotte Mace-Pettittcharlotte.mace-pettitt@mediaclash.co.uk Production/operations manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bristol Life MediaClash, Media House, 1 Widcombe Parade, Bath, BA2 4JT. tel: 01225 475800; www.mediaclash.co.uk. @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.
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In just a few weeks, the sculptures of Aardman and The Grand Appeal’s third Gromit Unleashed trail will be popping up all over the city.
The theme this year is movies, legends, fables and other tales, to which end various artists, studios and celebrities have been reimagining four of Aardman’s all-stars –Wallace, Gromit, Feathers McGraw and Norbot the gnome. Most of the designs are still secret, but the team has just released pics of a few to pique our interest.
There’s a Robin Hood-style Wallace, courtesy of Mister Hope; a glamorous Art Deco Gromit by Victoria Richards; a swashbuckling Norbot by Paula Bowles, a fairtyale reimagining by Emily Ketteringham, and a popcorn version by Simon Tozer. No sign of a Feathers yet; he won’t be pleased about that at all.
The sculptures will be on the streets between 30 June to 31 August, before bein auctioned off later in the year to raise money for the Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity. A trail map will be released in due course for completists who gotta catch ’em all.
Follow the fun at www.grandappeal.org.uk @TheGrandAppeal @gromitunleashed
Poet, writer, historian and Bristol Uni lecturer Dr Edson Burton has won the 2025 Tinniswood Award for best original audio drama script.
Edson’s Burton’s win was for Radio 4 drama Man Friday, a reimagining of Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe from Friday’s point of view. The judges called the script hu ely entertainin and a slow-burn brilliantly achie ed describin dson as a terrific writer with a deep love of language and a thorough understanding of structure .
Follow Edson on Instagram at @eburton70
eryone’s finally stopped callin it he former Bristol IMAX screen at Bristol Aquarium’, thankfully; it’s now known by the far snappier moniker of Bristol Megascreen.
The story of the Bristol IMAX intri ued filmmaker rthur auty so much that he made a documentary about it. The Big Picture follows the chequered fortunes of the screen, which after opening at Harbourside to mark the Millennium was deserted for over a decade before being reclaimed as a community cinema space. It’s now a ailable for film festi als one-off film events, and community hire.
“The moment I learned about the Bristol IMAX, I thought it would make a really cool film said rthur. ust the fact that it had remained intact, but also weirdly completely forgotten, right in the middle of a city with such a thri in film scene, I thought was crazy.
“But what really grabbed me was the story of the people reclaiming the cinema. It wasn’t demolished, it wasn’t taken over by some corporation – it was revived as a community space.
“The team behind Forbidden Worlds have got the space up and running,
fillin the screen as best they can with a Christie digital projector – it looks seriously impressive – but it’s not a proper’ IM . It’s certainly ot the capacity to show IMAX again; it just needs a teeny-tiny cash injection.
“Cough cough, Christopher Nolan? ames ameron nybody
The Big Picture by director Arthur Cauty premières at Forbidden Worlds Film Festival on 28 May; www.forbiddenworldsfilmfestival.co.uk
Beat the evil algorithms! Follow us on instagram and tag us with your pics: @bristollifemag
We’ve looked at clouds from both sides now, and concluded that they’re a lot more fun than an endless, unbroken expanse of blue
Dig out the tents, the glitter and the sequins: Bristol festival season is upon us, and it’s shaping up to be another summer of lurrve
Words by Deri Robins
The Bristol festival season never stops for breath. Some events, the Festival of Ideas and Bristol Film Fest for example, work tirelessly all year round to keep us informed and entertained.
Autumn and winter bring us the cerebral delights of the indoor film and music fests. Then, with the arrival of spring comes the big switch to the large-scale outdoor events – what most people think of as ‘festival season’ proper.
The variety and scope of these festivals is huge, from the 1.5 mile fields of Glastonbury to 5,000-capacity Bristol Sounds. There are food and drink fests; Pride marches; cool little urban dance and music fests; LOLs in tents, and things involving nature, boats and balloons. We defy you to find one that doesn’t tap into your own interests and enthusiasms; turn the page and book up your groove.
We’ve run the list chronologically rather than thematically, for the very good reason that these days all food fests lay on decent music and all music fests have decent food. Or at least, the good ones do – and obviously we’re only interested in the good ones.
We’ve made the cut-off early September; we’ll reconvene later in the autumn when festival season heads back indoors again.
Until 31 May
Hundreds of themed, informative walks to prise you off the couch, whatever your age, interests or fitness level, with choices ranging from heritage tours to nature walks, explorations of street art, wild food forays and walking sports tasters. Are you ready, boots? Start walking… Colour us tempted by: The Bristol Bookshop Crawl on 10 May. Discover Bristol’s independent book stores, chat with fellow book-lovers, share your book recommendations and enjoy discounts and perks at participating bookshops. We see nothing not to love here. www.bristolwalkfest.com
23-25 May
Although there’s no Valley Fest this year, the Chew Valley hills are still alive with the sound of music, with no less than three festivals –beginning with this one.
Famed for its eclectic music curation and trailblazing afterhours culture, Back to Mine has redefined nightlife for over two decades. Its celebrated CD series made history, and now the label brings its signature vibe to exclusive, intimate gatherings – such as this one at Nature’s Spectacular.
Think panoramic views of the Chew Valley, luxurious glamping, curated DJ sets, dancers and live instrumentals, all adding up to an atmosphere which blends music with magic.
Who’s on the bill?: Felix Joy, Roni Size, Gok Wan, Roni Size, among many others. www.backtomineevents.com
May
England’s smallest city hosts a big line-up, as per usual.
Ideal for: Sara Pascoe fans; she’s appearing once on Saturday and twice on Sunday, so you could theoretically see her three times. Other stand-ups also available. www.wellscomfest.com
This annual one-day music fest brings the hottest new emerging artists to city-centre stages. Headlining: Kids that hitherto only your coolest mates have heard of. Now you can be that cool, too.
www.dottodotfestival.co.uk
Your annual chance to see classic and cult movies up on the very big IMAX screen. What’s the theme?: Dive into new depths of fear and excitement with Forbidden Worlds of the Deep, featuring films set on, around and under the water. Time to reappraise Waterworld, then. www. forbiddenworldsfilmfestival.co.uk
29-31 May
Hunters and Barbours out: it’s time to get your rural kicks at the West’s best agriculture show. Who’s cooking?: In the Great British Kitchen are BBQ king Big Nath, ‘snack hacker’ George Egg, and Andy Clarke on the cocktails. What else? The biggest cider competition in the UK; the Horticulture Village; and the return of Bark & West, a section dedicated to cats. Only kidding! It’s gerbils. Still kidding! Loads more, of course. www.bathandwest.com
A beloved staple on the local calendar, marking the start of the Bristol outdoor music festival season, Love Saves returns to Ashton Court with its usual eclectic, dance-slewed programme. Headlining this year: Overmono, Nia Archives, Andy C, Ghetts, Giggs, Hybrid Minds, Pawsa, Skream & Benga, Wilkinson, and more. As a rule of thumb, the fewer acts you’ve heard of, the older your age, though even oldies may be tempted by noughties queen Ms Dynamite on the Saturday. www.lovesavestheday.org
“These days, all good music fests have great food, and all good food fests have decent music”
In the same way that rejected Oxbridge applicants turn to Bristol (oh, c’mon, you know that’s a thing), many regard Shindig as an excellent consolation prize if you failed to win the Glastonbury ticket lottery. Even Emily Eavis says so. However, Shindig is nobody’s second best. While its survival seemed under threat for a while, with last year being penned as its last, a new deal with SEE tickets means it’s back in force for another year of dancing,
dress-up and a dedicated sense of fun at its new home at Charlton Park. (See also page 82.)
Who’s on the bill?: The usual eclectic mix, from Gilles Peterson to Seun Kuti & Egypt 80, Ibibo Sound Machine and Gentleman’s Dub Club.
What’s new? New stages, including The Minirig Sub Bus, dedicated to all-things bass and beats.
What’s the dress-up theme?: Love is the Answer. Let the peace, love and unity flow. www.shindigfestival.co.uk
It’s no coincidence that Sounds runs at the same time as Glastonbury; the Crosstown team are adept at catching top acts en route to or from Worthy Farm, luring them to play in the far more intimate setting of Lloyd’s Amphitheatre where the loos are also better. Headlining: There’s a nostalgic feel to this year’s line-up. Supergrass are celebrating their 30th anniversary, and Kaiser Chiefs are marking their 20th. There’s Texas, an all-dayer with The Fratellis, and while Olly Murs is comparatively babyfaced he’s been around a few blocks, too since coming second in 2009’s The X-Factor. Still, at least he’s not in panto. Yet. Tip tip? Better jump to it; even whike compiling this feature in early May, tickets for Texas, the Kaisers and Olly had almost sold out. www.bristolsounds.co.uk
“There’s a distinctly nostalgic feel to this year’s Sounds line-up”
It’s
true that if
BRISTOL COMEDY
GARDEN: 4-8 June
Back at Queen Square with its usual impressive line-up of top names; it’s just like Live at the Apollo, but in a tent. Literally a laugh a minute. Maybe several. Who’s taking the mic?: Among many others, Ed Gamble, Chloe Petts, Mike Wozniak, Phil Wang, Alan Davies, and, in case her three gigs at Wells weren’t enough for you, Sarah Pascoe. You can’t beat a home crowd: Bristol-born talent includes Mark Watson and Jayde Adams. www.bristolcomedygarden.com
The UK’s biggest free celebration of the natural world, with dozens of events in Bristol and Bath, encouraging us all to take positive action to help local wildlife. This year’s theme: Water; an element that’s always been pretty important to Bristol, with a living wetland being created on Harbourside. The highlight, as ever, is the Wild Weekend (14-15 June): two spectacular outdoor days of free nature activities, exhibitor stalls, screenings, talks, workshops and more. www.bnhc.org.uk/festival-ofnature
Open-air gigs at Westonbirt, with an eclectic line-up playing against the magical 6,000-acre forest backdrop. Who’s up?: Loads of acts this year! Snow Patrol, Sting (above), The Script, Elbow, McFly, and Paul Heaton with Roane Downey. Nice to know: Income from ticket sales helps look after the nation’s forests, so it’s a win-win. www.forestryengland.uk/music
It’s all hands to the pumps once again at Lloyd’s, with the finest beers known to humanity, from both near and far away. All beer is included in the ticket price, along with the cute little festival glass; there are over 800 brews to try so if you’re intent on trying them all maybe do more sniffing, swirling and spitting than swallowing. What about the food? Eatchu, Meltdown Cheeseburgers and The Jolly Hog will all be on hand
to mop up the beer. www.bristolcraftbeerfestival.co.uk
Good tunes, good rides, good times. If it has even the most tenuous link to a Volkswagen, expect it to be celebrated here, at Birches Farm in Long Ashton, along with films, demos and a fun music line-up that includes Bristol girl Eve Lazarus. Oh, and there’s wrestling. What’s this year’s theme? Fiesta Mexicana – “celebrating
our Mexican compatriots, their culture and shared love of the world’s most iconic vehicles”. www.bristolvolksfest.co.uk
BRISTOL PRIDE:
28 June-13 July
The year’s most fabulous fest returns in all its rainbow-coloured glory, with a fortnight of the usual delights culminating in Pride Day on the Downs on 12 July. Who’s headlining?: Allie X, who we know is cool and fresh because she has a X in her name. Meanwhile, ’80s queen Kim Wilde takes the legends slot. www.pridebristol.co.uk
WESTON WALLZ:
July; dates tbc
Once again,the walls of Westonsuper-Mare will be transformed by Upfest (having a fallow year in Bristol) and its street-art all-stars, so grab yourself a bag of chips, dodge the gulls, and get trailing. Who’s painting? The usual class acts (ie we’re waiting on more information. Ditto the dates. We’ve confirmed these too early in the past and been hurt before.) www.upfest.co.uk
ST PAULS CARNIVAL:
July; dates tbc
It’s moved to a biennial mode, and this year is the year, but manage your expectations because it’s set to be a scaled-back event; no big carnival parade, but an elders’ brunch, the schools programme and a celebration of music, food and performance. Keep your eyes on the website and socials. www.stpaulscarnival.net
Not Valley Fest, but from the same team with similar views (literally and metaphorically); a new three-day festival rooted in wellbeing, regenerative living and
July
climate storytelling, at Nature’s Spectacular – a secluded, lakeside woodland near Chew Valley Lake. To be more specific: You can discover regenerative farming practices, go on foraging walks, gather by the firepit for immersive cooking demos, and share nourishing food, live music, and moments of reflection. Don’t camp, won’t camp? Treat yourself to one of the gorgeous boutiquey yurts, cabins or tipis. www.fireinyoursoul.co.uk
After its 2024 debut, Josh Eggleton’s celebration of sustainable seafood returns with a week of fishies on little dishies. What occurs?: Top Harbourside restaurants (and a few beyond) introduce exclusive seafood dishes to their menu; there will be talks and hands-on experiences too, and a festival finale with feasts and chef demos.
www.bristolseafood week.co.uk
Combining music, food, comedy and camping, this new fest offers an intimate weekend for just 1500 festival goers aged over 25 at the regenerative Fernhill Farm. The USP is the all-inclusive ticket, which includes breakfast and Bloody Marys, and free parking and camping.
So much more than a treat for flotilla-fanciers, Harbourfest is a celebration of the heart and soul of a city, no less, covering the waterfront from Underfall Yard to Millennium Square, over to Queen Square and beyond. It always attracts over 250k people, effectively turning the city centre into a three-day festival of music, dance, circus and, oh yeah, boats. Highlights: It has to be the flyboarders and jetskiers; but wherever and whenever you visit, there’s never a dull moment.
www.bristolharbourfestival.co.uk
At main space The Orangery live music and DJs play everything from soul to electronic. Then there’s The Bunkhouse, which has nothing to do with Yellowstone wranglers and everything to do with late-night energy. Tell us about the food: There’s a big focus on the role food plays in bringing people together, with the Kitchen Table space – a cosy barn with plenty of comfy seating – which will play host to a special Sunday Roast feast, as well as a wide range of food from expert chefs available all weekend.
www.homestead festival.co.uk
Back on the Downs following a successful first year, showcasing Bristol’s best independent chefs, producers and street-food traders. We’re promised an eclectic mix of local restaurants, cuisines and producers, entertainment, artisan produce market, cooking demos, open-fire cooking, talks etc.
Who’s cooking? Who isn’t, is the more pertinent question: from Pasture to Bianchis via Nadu, Bank Tavern, Koocha and Caper & Cure,it’s a rollcall of the best in Bristol. www.feaston.co.uk
25-29 June
Smug as a bug that you bagged tickets? Well, rightly so, especially since this is your last chance to visit Worthy Farm until 2027.
As per, anyone who’s anyone will be playing. Neil Young is back on the bill after his initial withdrawal, and if old-school singer-songwriter grungy country rock is not for you there’s also brat girl Charli XCX, The 1975s, Olivia Rodrigo, Loyle Carner, Biffy Clyro, The Prodigy – basically anyone
who’s on the road this year whose surname isn’t Gallagher.
Sunday legend slot: The astonishingly active octagonarian Rod Stewart, still wearing it well. Hopefully.
Fun fact: ‘Legend’ Rod is actually less than a year older than ‘headliner’ Neil.
The big question: Will Kneecap be allowed to play? The Norn Irn lads are currently in deep water over their recent ‘incendiary’ political comments.
www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk
“‘Legend’ Rod Stewart is actually less than a year older than ‘headliner’ Neil Young”
If all goes to plan, and by ‘all’ we’re obviously referring to the weather, over 100 hot-air balloons will rise en masse at dawn and dusk on all three days. If it doesn’t, there’s still plenty of balloon-themed fun at the Ashton Court arena, and after dark on Friday and Saturday there are the Nightglows, when the pilots fire up the burners for a magical display of glowing balloons set to music by BBC Radio Bristol.
Fancy an upgrade?: Book for the VIP Sky Lounge tent for the best view of the balloon launch field. The team from meat-cookin’ maestros Pasture will bring their new Prime concept to the Lounge, offering burgers and BBQ every day from 3pm until late. www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk
“Book for the VIP Sky Lounge for the best view of t e launc field
A drum & bass legacy is duly honoured at Harbourside this July, as RUN, one of Bristol’s most influential d&b institutions, marks 20 years at the heart of the city’s music culture with a landmark open-air event at Siren Festival. Born in the backstreets of the city in 2005, RUN started life at Native on Small Street, where Tuesday nights saw queues around the block and a 200-capacity venue shaking under the weight of heavy basslines and a monster sound system. When Native closed in 2009, RUN relocated to Motion, scaling up its vision and reach, helping to shape Bristol’s global reputation as a powerhouse for cutting-edge electronic music. Since launching RUN All Day in 2017, the event has redefined daytime drum & bass, transforming inner-city spaces into vibrant celebrations of music and community. Now, to celebrate two decades of influence, RUN All Day takes it outside into Lloyd’s Amphitheatre, just a stone’s throw from where it all began. Expect sets from Hedex & Eksman, K Motionz, Mozey, TC, Critical Impact, Javeon (Live), Bryan Gee, Pola & Bryson, Natty Lou, T & Sugah and many more. www.sirenbristol.com
Founded and attended by some of the biggest apple-botherers around, this debut fest brings a citywide celebration of craft cider and perry to various venues. We believe some ship is involved?: Yeah! There’s a big opening party on ss Great Britain, with meet-the-maker tasting sessions, eight pours of craft cider, local cheese and a chance to explore the ship after hours. www.bristolciderweek.co.uk
Bristol’s summertime gig series brings three nights of back-toback music.
For example?: The legendary Bloc Party celebrates 20 years of debut album Silent Alarm on Friday, electronic dance royalty Sasha + Digweed play Sunday and Bristol’s biggest DNB alldayer, RUN All Day takes over on Saturday (see panel above). www.sirenbristol.com
1-2 August
Bristol’s post-punk heroes are throwing a block party (not to be confused with Bloc Party at Siren). Want to feel special?: It’s their only UK appearance this year. www.idlesband.com
Another summer offering from the Valley Fest crew: a laidback weekend blending music, movement and moments of restoration. It is, they say, the point “where sanctuary meets festival, where wood-fired saunas meet starlit skies, and handcrafted Bedouin tents overlook tranquil waters.” There’s barefoot dancing under wide-open skies, yoga by the water’s edge; the Wild Spa, and local cuisine at Bar Paradiso Tell us about the tunes: The soulful grooves of Incognito and Loose Ends, the spins of Trevor Nelson and Norman Jay, and the vibrant energy of Huey Morgan. Where? Nesta Valley in Chew Magna with panoramic views and a natural lake at its centre. When people talk about boutique festivals this is the vibe they mean. www.lakeparadiso.co.uk
23 August
One-day fest with venues filled with live performances, DJs,
family activities and surprise sets in celebration of the city’s vibrant music scene – all for free. The event aligns with the Bristol Jazz Festival, headlined by the legendary Old Duke Jazz Festival – now in its 58th year of showcasing live jazz performances. Nice. www.oldcitysounds.co.uk
The last big outdoors bash of the summer, drawing the biggest names in international music to the Downs, with heritage music acts alongside emerging artists. Who’s headlining? Doechii, Barry Can’t Swim, Jorja Smith, Ezra Collective, Olivia Dean and more Know this: Organisers Team Love are always seeking to challenge what an urban festival can be, and how it can spark positive change. To this end, the Forwards Thinking strand also offers a platform for social initiatives in Bristol. www.forwardsbristol.com
WINGFEST: 5-7 September
Poultry in motion at Lloyd’s, with chicken wings (around 100,000 of them), 25 different food vendors, beer, bourbon and music. Basically, it’s a fowl play on the much-missed Grillstock. www.wingfest.co.uk
1856. NEW YORK. Eunice sits in what will become Central Park, and wonders if her research into CO2 is telling her something is going horribly wrong.
2027. London. Claire falls in love as the heatwa e breaks and the streets be in to ood.
2100. Svalbard. While an 86-day storm rages outside, Ana hears a baby crying in the seed vault.
The world is ending, sure. But what happens in between?
Directed by Nancy Medina, Flora Wilson Brown’s The Beautiful Future Is Coming is a fastpaced, funny and wildly inventive look at 250 years of real and imagined history through the eyes of three couples.
“I started writing this play as a place to put all my climate grief – my worries and fears for the future”, says Flora. “I felt really small in the face of it, how huge and unknowable it was, and how little I felt I could do to control it.
“I started thinking about how people might e ist in the far future and how the effects of climate change might be felt in the immediate future, in places I’ve lived and to people I know. I’d read about Eunice Foote years ago and I’d always known I wanted to write about her, about the struggle of being a woman in that era, and the horrible irony of how thin s mi ht ha e been different if she’d been recognised in her own time.
“Slowly the three worlds came together, firstly throu h ima es then moments of dialo ue and then finally characters. I knew early on that humour would be a crucial part of this play, I wanted the audience to fall in love with the characters, and I’ve always thou ht the most effecti e way to do that is to make people laugh. I wanted all the characters to feel like people you might know, even if they’re far removed in time.
“Really, I wrote this play to feel less alone, to remind myself that if we look after each other, we can still make the future beautiful.”
The Beautiful Future is Coming plays Bristol Old Vic 15 May-7 June; www.bristololdvic.org.uk
Until 21 May DREAMS AND SCHEMES ri inal prints by four definin modern artists. Despite their contrasting styles – Mondrian’s geometric precision, Martin’s meditative minimalism, Chagall’s dreamlike narratives, Matisse’s ibrant uidity each shares a commitment to distilling beauty, emotion and form into their most essential elements. Oh and they’re all for sale. At Hidden Gallery, hiddengallery.co.uk
Until 25 May
BARBARA WALKER: BEING HERE
Intensely observed and empathetic fi urati e work which creates space for Black power and belonging. t rnolfini arnolfini.or .uk
Until 22 June
JON TONKS: A FISH CALLED JULIE
Oceans have nourished us for thousands of years, but the bounties of our blue planet are ebbing. To highlight the issue, MPF has collaborated with photographer Jon Tonks and We Feed The UK to share stories of those trying to fish sustainably t M martinparrfoundation.org
Until 29 June
TAPESTRY OF BLACK BRITONS
The laudable aim is to amplify an inclusive historical narrative which serves as a platform for community remembrance, while building awareness that Black British history is ritish history. t rnolfini arnolfini.or .uk
Until 13 July
FRAMERATE:
PULSE OF THE EARTH
Spread across multiple screens and taking over the whole Undershed gallery is this haunting and meditative immersive artwork by ScanLAB Projects. Pieced together from thousands of daily 3D timelapse scans, the unique portrait of the ritish landscape in u tells a story of great change caused by human industry and the immense forces of nature. watershed.co.uk
Until 27 July
JESSICA ASHMAN: THOSE THAT DO NOT SMILE WILL KILL ME
Subtitled Decolonising Jamaican Flora; a new installation which challenges perceptions around nature, botanical knowledge and who owns Earth’s rich natural resources. At Bristol Museum, bristolmuseums.org.uk
Until 12 October GENDER STORIES
A thought-provoking exhibition that e amines the uid multifaceted world of gender across cultures, eras and personal experiences. At Bristol Museum, bristolmuseums.org.uk
17 May-12 August
SOFT POWER
Lives told through textile art, highlighting how cloth can play a unique role in telling our stories and communicating life’s journey. At RWA, rwa.org.uk
31 May-7 September
DONALD LOCKE: RESISTANT FORMS
he first ma or sur ey e hibition of the Guyanese artist, featuring ceramics evoking human and natural forms, mixed-media sculptures and more. Spike Island, spikeisland.org.uk
Until 17 May
KINKY BOOTS
Before RuPaul came this drag musical with heart and awardwinning Cyndi Lauper score. Hippodrome; atgtickets.com
SECTION 28 AND ME
Gathering intergenerational voices, connecting history and politics
with the deeply personal, to celebrate the resilient LGBTQIA+ community, Tom Marshman’s playful, honest and heartfelt portrait explores queer stories on past invisibility and shame. BOV, bristololdvic.org.uk
Until 7 June THE BEAUTIFUL FUTURE IS COMING
The world is ending, but what happens in between? Flora Wilson Brown’s fast-paced, funny and wildly inventive look at 250 years of real and imagined history through the eyes of three couples; BOV; bristololdvic.org.uk
16 May
THE W.I.G OF LIFE: A CONFERENCE
Time: the not-so-distant future. Space: a conference among AI. Biological life is extinct. One organism has the power to bring it all back. Come to Alma Tavern and question the world as you know it; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk
19-24 May
CHICAGO
Roxie and Velma back in the house: the musical described as ‘the sexiest ever’ is doing the rounds again and bringing the old razzledazzle to Hippodrome. atgtickets.com
21-22 May
HELIOS
Award-winning storytellers Wright&Grainger transplant the Ancient Greek tale into a modernday myth wound round the winding roads of rural England and into the everyday living of a towering city; Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
27-31 May
DERREN BROWN: ONLY HUMAN
The master mind-controller’s back with a new live show. “Each show begins with a blank canvas and the question of what I could do with a thousand or more people locked in a room with me. It’s very exciting”, says Derren. Bristol Hippodrome. atgtickets.com
NORTH BY NORTHWEST
Wise Children’s reimagining of the Hitch classic; see feature page 30 www.theatreroyal.org.uk
3-21 June
WAR HORSE
The famous NT adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s World War I classic still has plenty of legs (equine) and is cantering back into Hippodrome. The puppets, of course, are the big thing. atgtickets.com
CLOSER EACH DAY
The world’s longest-running improvised comedy soap continues at Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
BRISTOL IMPROV THEATRE
For the full programme see improvtheatre.co.uk
Until 30 May
BRISTOL COMEDY CAVE aces off the telly local le ends club classics and big names play Basement 45 in the city centre; thebristolcomedyclub.com
17 May
HORATIO GOULD: RETURN OF THE SPACE COWBOY
At the age of 27, Horatio is the tribal elder of Gen Z. Existing on the cusp of two age groups and desperate for something meaningful to believe in, he explores the crisis facing young people seeking purpose in life that isn’t fat jeans or rock-climbing. Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
THE LOST CABARET
Bristol’s clown collaboration brings
big ideas, big experiments and big laughs to The Wardrobe every few months to take risks, embrace the ridiculous, and connect with an audience. This is one of those months. thewardrobetheatre.com
18 May
ELF LYONS: HORSES
he first e er comedy show performed entirely by a horse. Made by award-winning Elf Lyons. Performed by Treacle. “Beautiful hind legs”, said the Horse & Hound . Did they, though? At TFT, tobaccofactorytheatres.comk
22 May
STUART LAWS HAS TO BE JOKING
Last year Stuart started telling the truth on stage and was diagnosed autistic: he got the best reviews he’s ever had, and his show was a must-see. He’s back, fresh from the Edinburgh Fringe and ready to lean into it further; Alma Tavern, almatavernandtheatre.co.uk
23 May
JOSH GLANC: FAMILY MAN
Surreal stand-up from the moustachiod Aussie ”Don’t miss it”, reads the PR. “Or do. I don’t really mind. I’m just the guy he pays to write this stuff up. eriously it’s no skin off my back. lma a ern almatavernandtheatre.co.uk
25 May
JARLETH REGAN: IN BITS
After selling out every single seat on his Yer Man tour in 2024, the Dubliner with the viral TikToks is on the road again and coming to TFT; tobaccofactorytheatres.com
28 May
TRYGVE WAKENSHAW: SILLY LITTLE THINGS
A mime-clown-physicalcomedy show: light and silly, absurd and Dada, and a sort of autobiographical, introspective look at all the little things that can make or break a friendship. At Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
28-29 May
PAUL SMITH: PABLO
We’re told to expect Paul’s trademark audience interaction and hilarious true stories from his everyday life.” Anyway, it’s at Beacon. bristolbeacon.org
29 May
THE NOISE NEXT DOOR No gimmicks, no tricks – just the
James is currently appearing at Bristol Old Vic in The Beautiful Future is Coming (see page 21). James made his breakthrough on the small screen as Lord Basilo in S3 of Bridgerton, and he’s proud of being the first Filipino named Lord of the series. We can claim him as a Bristolian too, as he trained at the Theatre School –but somehow this is going to be his first time performing on the BOV stage.
A film I could watch over and over again
Sister Act 2 is an endless joysparker for me, and always puts me in a good mood. It conjures memories of enjoying it with my siblings growing up. Nostalgia can always boost your re-appreciation of anything.
A painting that means something to me
My desktop background is In a Roman Osteria by Carl Bloch. I find it such a wittily captured slice of life, there’s such personality in the three subjects looking over at you from their table, and there are a thousand little details in the scene that draw my eye differently every time I see it. It represents such empathy from the artist to have captured something so recognisable and human.
Best TV show ever…
It changes constantly as so much good stuff is out there! I’m obsessed with Severance at the moment, from being slow to catch onto it, to now having a group chat that discussed each episode of Season 2. It’s so engrossing and dystopian and yet tinged with a wry humour I find so satisfying to delve into. Can’t wait for next season.
My favourite binge-watch
This is a toss-up between The Good Place and Schitt’s Creek Such a pair of comfort series I can return to in their entireties, or flick on favourite episodes any time and enjoy all over again.
The book that changed my life
My dad read The Hobbit to my
siblings and me growing up and brought us into a world that utterly captured my imagination. I’m a fan of the fantasy genre generally, and from The Hobbit I dived straight into The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion, and a host of collected stories from JRR Tolkien’s magnificent brain.
The book I could happily re-read Re-reading The Lord of the Rings is like revisiting old friends and it is pure escapism. I can understand why Sir Christopher Lee re-read the books every year.
My desert island disc Really anything by Labi Siffre, maybe Bless the Telephone There’s such a beautiful simplicity to his poetry in song, especially in that track.
My dance floor/karaoke banger Ooh I think Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 work for either of those requirements! Same goes for basically all of ABBA (though we all know the answer for ABBA is Dancing Queen).
Podcast pick
I’m not a habitual podcast listener, though have dipped in and out. I’ve got a great respect for the current affairs podcasts that are able to break open quite knotty present topics and aid in our understanding of the world we’re currently wading through.
Best app
I’m trying to decrease my reliance on my phone and social media, so currently I pass the time on the longer commutes with a simple minesweeper app. Playing on mental acuity and logic games feels less like the small screen in my pocket is degrading my little grey cells.
Guilty pleasure
I’m on a lifelong hunt for the perfect pain au chocolat. I’ll buy them far more regularly than my belt buckle would comfortably prefer if I think it might top my mental leaderboard. www.bristololdvic.org.uk
quickest, wittiest improvisers in the UK putting on a show, at Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
NICK MOHAMMED IS MR. SWALLOW: SHOW PONY
Payback for everyone who didn’t come to the last tour, the show will cover everything from Mr Swallow not having his own sitcom to his not having his own sitcom… and everything in between (critical race theory). Expect magic, music and mistakes, at Beacon bristolbeacon.org
AMY ANNETTE: THICK SKIN
The noughties are back, which is good and bad (but mostly bad, e.g. body image – bad, but original Sugababes line up – good!)… and Amy is ready to arm you with tales, and tricks, to survive the worst of the 00s, in 2025. Big fun, from a big gal. Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
RICHARD HERRING: CAN I HAVE MY BALL BACK?
Richard’s still talking bollocks as he answers the question on everyone’s lips: is a severed onad in a ar a fittin prize to bring in for Taskmaster? TFT; tobaccofactorytheatres.com
CAITLIN COOK: THE WRITING ON THE STALL
Through irreverent, poignant and often obscene bathroom ra ti messages, Caitlin reckons with our shared humanity and what
we owe each other. Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
BRISTOL BEACON
Daily gigs, encompassing orchestral, folk world indie azz and less easily classifiable shizzle for full programme see bristolbeacon.org
ST GEORGE’S BRISTOL
Classical, world, folk, talks, more, at St George’s; stgeorgesbristol.co.uk
16 May
JO WHILEY’S ’90S ANTHEMS ’90s queen Jo brings a night of Britpop nostalgia, high-energy beat and sizzlin anthems in the ultimate celebration of the era; at O2, academymusicgroup.com
22 May
PUBLIC IMAGE LIMITED
John Lydon’s post-punk PiL is regarded as one of the most innovative bands of all time, their unique sound a fusion of rock, dance, folk, pop, and club. At O2, academymusicgroup.com
FLOOK
Traditional beats interwoven with precise acoustic roo es fiery technical brilliance and bold, adventurous musical imagination, at Bristol Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
22 May
THE WATERBOYS
Scottish lead singer/guitarist Mike
Wise Children and former Kneehigh regular Katy plays
The Professor in North By Northwest; more on page 30.
The last great film I saw Paddington in Peru. I’m not a big film watcher, but the Paddington films are moving, witty and funny. You somehow feel deeply for the little bear thing. Magic.
A film I could watch endlessly
A documentary made by two French brothers called Grey Gardens. It’s about a mother and a daughter living in a dilapidated mansion in the Hamptons full of cats and raccoons. It’s weird and wonderful.
A painting that means something to me
Running Away with the Hairdresser by Welsh painter Kevin Sinnott (1947). The painting shows a couple running through the streets, probably off to get jiggy. It captures a moment of pure frivolous abandon.
Best TV show ever…
The Royle Family by Caroline Aherne. One of the funniest, truest, most painfully wellobserved comedies ever. Brilliant characters. Nothing and yet everything happens.
My favourite binge watch
A Place in the Sun. I love fantasising about owning a property abroad. I can watch two or three in one sitting. I’m
fascinated by the different people and budgets.
The book that changed my life
The Sopranos by Alan Warner. An amazing ride of debauchery and coming-of-age, through the eyes of choir girls from a school called Our Lady of Perpetual Succour. It’s like Sister Act – times a thousand.
The book I could happily re-read
A Manual for Cleaning Women by Lucia Berlin. 43 brilliant short stories about women battling darkness. Extraordinary.
Last live music gig I went to I’m not really one for gigs, but when I was in Edinburgh last year, having an afternoon pint, a lady in a folk band sang Chim Chimney to me, a cappella, while occasionally banging a tambourine. It was memorable.
My desert island disc
That’s hard…can I have two? I’m having two. Sunshine On Leith by The Proclaimers. Epically moving. And I Know You, I Live You by Chaka Khan – for the boogie.
The first single I bought Everything I Do, I Do It For You by Bryan Adams. Hahahaha.
My karaoke go-to Hotel California by The Eagles. It’s a beast and so stupidly dramatic.
North by Northwest plays Theatre Royal Bath 27-31 May www.theatreroyal.org.uk
Scott, keyboard players Brother Paul from Memphis and James Hallawell from Cornwall, with Irish rhythm section Aongus Ralston (bass) and Eamon Ferris (drums) add up to a killer live band, and it’s coming to Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
23 May
PAUL YOUNG
“From No Parlez to The Secret Of Association – an Intimate Evening” with the absolute ’80s legend. Revel in the classic hits and learn the stories behind them, at Redgrave redgravetheatre.com
Ongoing
BRISTOL FILM FESTIVAL
The year round fest of crowdpleasers continues; the Clifton Summer Screenings are back 4-7 July. bristolfilmfestival.com
Until 25 May
TRANSLATED BY, BRISTOL
A new festival celebrating translators and translated literature, founded by Polly Barton in collaboration with Gloucester Road Books and Storysmith; translatedbybristol.com
Until 31 May
BRISTOL WALK FEST
Walks across the city for people of all ages, interests and abilities; most are free. bristolwalkfest.com
23-25 May
BACK TO MINE: THE SECRET VALLEY
Panoramic views of the Chew Valley, luxurious glamping options, curated DJ sets and live music, at Nature Spectacular; backtomine.seetickets.com
24-25 May
LOVE SAVES THE DAY
If it’s the late-May bank holiday you can count on Ashton Court radiating LSTD’s diverse love and vibes. lovesavestheday.org
29 May -3 June
FORBIDDEN WORLDS
Repertory fantasy, action, sciencefiction and horror films from around the world and celebrating those who made them; at the former IMAX; forbiddenworldsfilmfestival.co.uk
4-8 June
BRISTOL COMEDY GARDEN
Think of a top name from the comedy circuit and they’ll probably be in this fi e-ni ht all-star stand-up
in the Big Top in Queen Square; bristolcomedy arden.co.uk
6-14 June
CLIFTON FESTIVAL
Bristol’s classical music festival; top tunes, top players. bristolbeacon.org
Until 19 October (selected Sundays)
BRISTOL TRANSATLANTIC SLAVERY WALK
The return of the history walks which set out to explore the history of Bristol as a port, how it came to participate in the slave trade and Colston’s divisive legacy. bristoltours.co.uk
19 May
DAVID OLUSOGA: HISTORY’S MISSING CHAPTERS
How and why are some events and some people remembered and others forgotten? Taking examples from the World Wars, the Industrial Revolution and other pivotal moments in global history, David uncovers history’s missing persons; at St George’s, st eor esbristol.co.uk
29 May
HISTORICAL WALK: BRISTOL ABOLITION
Discover the names and places associated with Bristol’s 1000-year fi ht to end the city’s in ol ement in slavery, from Saxon times to the 19th century. bristolmuseums.or .uk
29-31 May
THE ROYAL BATH AND WEST SHOW
Your annual chance to get your rural on, at Shepton Mallet; farm animals, displays, dog fun, cooking, tractors, etc; bathandwest.com
31 May
DESTINATION OLD MARKET..
A mediaeval promenade: step into the streets of Old Market as characters from the height of the Renaissance appear before your eyes – plucked from the past and dropped into the present; trinitybristol.or .uk
1 June
HISTORICAL WALK: 183 RIOTS
Expert guides retell one of the most dramatic events in British history, exploring some of the sites that played a prominent role in the unrest. bristolmuseums.or .uk n
It’s said that no matter how many Emma Rice productions you see, your first will always be your fa ourite. I’d offer another truism once you’ e seen one you’ll sell steal or borrow to see them all. nd let’s add a third paraphrased from somethin The Guardian once said if her shows don’t make you fall in lo e with theatre there’s nothin on arth that will.
mma first came to fame as the co-artistic director of neehi h the roundbreakin theatre company she helped to take from makeshift community sta es in ornwall to the rarefied auditoriums of the and the . er shows were always a wild ride filled with heart and wonder most were are based on myths folk stories film and fiction althou h there was also a rather di isi e Cymbeline at tratford which strayed far from canon.
i en her si nature cheerful irre erence it’s hard to understand why, in 2016, the herita e-focused hakespeare’s lobe should ha e offered mma the ob of artistic director. hen it turned out that they had ery different notions about the role they parted ways and mma retreated to ristol a city with which
“’I’m the woman who crushed The Globe, aren’t I? If I didn’t worry about Shakespeare it would be silly to worry Hitchcock”about
she’d always had a close relationship. It was here at pike Island that she launched her own theatre company callin it Wise Children after the no el by n ela arter an adaptation of the same book was to be their debut show. owe er mma dreamed of unitin all aspects of the company under a sin le roof. In she bou ht up an old Methodist chapel in rome rechristenin it he ucky hance. e eral productions ha e already been created here most recently the sta e adaptation of the itchcock mo ie North by Northwest, which is currently tourin the .
Words by Deri Robins
ith the cast currently off doin their thin in ork all is uiet and serene at the chapel when I pop in for a isit. he front door or whate er the ecclesiastical term is opens rather une pectedly to a lar e bar with a piano mismatched furniture inta e mirrors bundles of old adybird books and pink urorescent si ns offerin hope for the heart’ and stories for the soul’. It looks e actly like a ise hildren set.
Next to it is a lofty rehearsal space with a vaulted wooden roof.
“We bought the chapel at the end of Covid”, says Emma. “I’d always wanted a home for Wise Children, particularly because of my Kneehigh days [the company rehearsed and li ed in cliffside barns . hen you’re a tourin company, you can become so peripatetic that it’s hard to feel where the heart is.
e paid for it outri ht out of the profits from the first few years of tradin . It was all from our own hard work, and I love it for that.
“The original idea was that it would just be for rehearsal rooms and teaching, but then I said, let’s do a Christmas show here, so we made that happen. It was magical; it makes no sense financially but we’re here for soul for creativity.”
peakin of finances I ask whether the current crisis in regional theatre has had a knock-on effect on her productions.
“Yes. I’m loathe to admit it, but I’m trying to think of things with smaller casts. Everything costs more now, so when I have ideas I try to distil them into the simplest form so that we spend our money wisely. We’re entrepreneurial and eet of foot. ou can’t stick to a business model. You have to keep moving.”
Her latest show, North by Northwest, has a cast of nine. Unusually for Emma, who normally germinates her own ideas for shows, this one was put forward by a producer friend. Genrewise it wasn’t exactly in her wheelhouse either, being a complicated thriller.
“It’s so not up my street! It’s all plot and almost no emotion, while usually I go for all emotion with a very minimal plot. I mean, compare it to Brief Encounter, when literally
nothing happens, and in this story literally everything happens. But in the end, I thought, this is going to really push my brain in ways it’s never been pushed – not least in working out the mechanics of the plot.
“I’m also fascinated by the 1950s setting. It was a time when everybody pretended the war hadn’t happened; nobody thought about therapy or anything. But in North by Northwest every character would have had a wartime experience, so I’ve threaded that through. Even the baddies have a gentle backstory.
“The centre of the story is the United Nations; this beautiful, shining new building. Because of that I’ve got a very international cast, and I’ve put in stories about how people were dispersed across the world after the war, all with different e periences.
“There’s also the ‘who do you believe?’ element to the plot, which obviously chimes with the modern world. It’s quite a 2025 thought, isn’t it? What happens if people say you’re somebody else and you can’t prove it?”
Staging North by Northwest is hilariously ambitious. There’s the UN itself; there are trains. chase in a cornfield with a crop duster. haracters han in off Mount ushmore so how has Emma tackled this? Has she used video projection, as she did in Brief Encounter?
“No, that would have been too easy. I thought the fun of it was that it’s ridiculous to put on stage. We’ve got a set of four revolving doors; people come in from one and go out of another, and it gives a real kinetic energy. If the plot was hard for me to work out, imagine what it was like directing four doors in the right place. So we’ve got this kaleidoscopic, changing architecture.
“I’m not going to give any more away. When Hitchcock did it, it was pure Hitchcock, and the way I do it is pure mma ice.
nd i en that it’s pure mma ice you’d better believe there’s going to be music and love and romance. “It has one of the most romantic relationships in a itchcock film. The acting is always so dry, isn’t it? Hitchcock doesn’t let anybody show any emotion. So I’ve pulled out the romance.
rom the films I’ e seen itchcock likes women to be victims, but here it’s the opposite. Eve is no victim. I’ve given it a slightly more feminist ending, but it’s all in the original script. There’s nothing in that script that I’m offended by as a woman. I don’t think I would have wanted to have done his The Birds. . .”
Finally, did she feel the ghost of Hitch hovering at her shoulder while she tackled one of his most re ered films
“No. I wasn’t anxious about what he might think of it. I’m the woman who crushed The Globe, aren’t I? If I didn’t worry about Shakespeare, it would be silly to start worrying about Hitchcock.” n
North by Northwest plays Theatre Royal Bath 27-31 May; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
It’s in the trees! It’s coming!
2
Culture comes in all sorts of shapes and sizes, right? You don’t always need an ice-cream break in the middle.
I’m onna introduce you to somethin a bit different as I had the pleasure of walking up the hill in Castle Park to join Dirty Money Millionaires, Sensi Sounds and Fully Gassed Events (other sound systems were available) to hear Solomon and other MCs rip it up all day. Feels right that in this park, a place decimated by that bombing, and so much council mashing up the local area after the war, that instead of just blossom growing on the trees, culture, which so many appreciated was being celebrated. At one point you couldn’t walk up the hill for the amount of people who came to enjoy themselves.
It’s the annual 420 celebration, known the world over as being a sort of annual break for cannabis users. Many in the UK call for it to be legalised; here people were enjoying the music, their community, and drinking in the sunshine and vibes. Some call this counter culture. I just see it as culture. So I’m gonna take you through a few hours of this lifestyle, and you can tell me at the end if you feel they deserve to be called Park Life Heroes.
1
The branches on the tree behind this young man, as he lifts one of the big speakers into position on a sound system, is a really good metaphor for the whole park experience.
I could show it to you in a wide photograph, with dozens of sound systems all over the place, branching out all over the park; however a close-up here does the job for me. You can see that people working together are building something. The fruit on the tree are sound systems of all shapes and sizes, sometimes tailored just right for that specific sound and ones where you can come and feel the bass pass thou h e ery fibre and bone in your body.
Think spa day for the bass head. Think being lost in the jungle, but loving it. Think beats loud and hard enough for your own heart to synchronise.
2
Food by Sophie is always a pleasure, and if you want to experience drum and bass, well, you may need to feel connected to its roots in Black culture in our city.
When music, food and art are a unity, it’s culture plus-plus-plus, right? Like someone started serving popcorn at the cinema, and that stuck. Now soundclashes on sound systems over the years have been built up with the muscles fed by jerk chicken rice and peas. I personally can’t think of a better unity of music, food and culture.
3 4
“Some call this counter culture. I just see it as culture”
3
o how does it feel at the front locked in with the M and the spinning three decks? I’m guessing three means the new guy can seamlessly mo e his set in while the finishes and as s ostle and move behind the decks we all move enthralled at the front. ain on the culture front The Marseillaise, the French national anthem, was composed in one night during the French Revolution. I think it was in pril by laude- oseph ou et de isle. captain of the en ineers and amateur musician. o formal trainin . nd there on the barricades one day he gets that feeling. And it’s such a banger of an anthem, that one. Here in this park the barricades are speaker walls, and you can climb your way to the set list of M s and so perhaps we should be asking one of these people to get us a new anthem, god knows our old one is about 150 years past its prime by now.
4
f course if you want to be a there are lots of options. I hear red ain li ed ne t door to rian no so that must ha e been one way to et oin . ut I tell you for what whether M or you come to one of these systems and you can watch the pros ust an i hone away and get your tips.
I rolled back there after an hour and was introduced to some of the M s about to o on. Met the first lad the second then the third said to me h no I’m not an M I’m ust here
But you could see that you build up some lyrics at home, or on the bus back to ends from work, and here you are just one step away from being involved. I like the hunger they have for the music, the bass, the way M and crowd are part of one thin . ith drop-in points all
over the shop for the future talent. I’m starting to see they can get their whole crew here, tech, dancers, videographers, it’s quite a scene.
5
I forgot to mention the tees. Hand-drawn like these, in that wildstyle lettering, means that a local artist has been able to a our up the look of the whole thin too. his is direct marketin of the highest order. I was talking with a very respected street artist recently and we both agreed that we need more events with spray cans and music to keep both a ours ali e in this city. e both hate homogenised experiences over this rough and tough culture.
I would go further, looking back over this article. I would say we need to recognise that these kinds of events are powerful blends of art, music, food fashion ow cultures yin around each other like crazy and community.
hat’s the bi one. ommunity. o if you only hear a noise you may not be right for this, I would suggest pressing the down button on your penthouse-lift-mind and come o er where you will find your crew.
6
eah you’re thinkin they don’t make speakers that bi . ell they do, and for the best sound you will need to add a few you made of your own, for the faithful to come and shake their monster drinks at. upreme.
A religious experience? As the crew on this sound system move their icon in to position, is it any clearer that it is?
hrist antokrator which they seem to be channellin here in those boxer shorts, is the Jesus who is ‘almighty’ and ‘all powerful’. antokrator is a compound word formed from reek words pas pantos i.e. all and kratos.
hese mean stren th’ and mi ht’ and power’.
And I’m thinking that this all slips together with sound system culture just so well.
7
And the whole thing just had a pirate vibe.
Colin Moody: content creation, online images Twitter @moodycolin; Instagram @colinmoodyphotography www.colinmoodyphotography.wordpress.com
Ready to have your expectations overturned?
This month’s recommendations are defined by the notion of a split: splitting narratives, splitting perspectives, splitting realities thankfully no splittin of married bookshop owners at the time of writin . ookin back on them now it seems a fairly loose theme to say the least but books no els in particular ha e this ma ical capacity to split ri ht in front of your eyes forcin you to consider perspecti es diametrically opposed to your e pectations or e en your sympathies.
At the risk of giving this column a bit too much intellectual welly we’re basically sayin that a chan e in iewpoint is a nice thin once in a while and books can help. pecifically these books.
The Night Trembles by Nadia Terranova (trans. Ann Goldstein) his beautiful and terrifyin no el that takes place immediately before durin and after the Messina earthquake of 1908 (itself a literal split in the earth which wrou ht de astation on the areas around icily and alabria is one of the most e hilaratin yet unsettlin books you’re likely to read this year. i ided into two alternatin perspecti es one of an -year-old boy for whom the earth uake means he can finally escape the thrall of his abusi e mother the other a youn woman whose betrothal to a man she detests is suddenly erased it is resolutely poetic in the face of physical and e istential disaster. s the two characters lurch into their new realities they do cross paths
brie y but si nificantly strands of hope are plucked from the rubble and new uncon entional families sprin into the oid left by old traditions lost in the earth uake. cintillatin and compulsi e.
The Möbius Book by Catherine Lacey he two strands of this hybrid work from the literal enius that is atherine acey are separated not by anythin as simple as characters or chapters. his is two books in one starting at either end and literally ippin in the middle. ne is a dark and tense no ella which picks over the carcass of a relationship recently ended yet more splittin steeped in ominous ima ery and indefinable dread and the other is a kind of memoir of the end of the author’s own relationship with an unnamed but easily oo le-able partner that details with wit and honesty her eerin into spirituality and selfdisco ery. he writin is precise and angular, and the pairing of a real life with an ima ined analo ue is surprisin ly illuminatin looking for clues in one half that might shed light on the other makes for an unconventional and endlessly re-e perienceable read.
“The dystopian nightmare city evoked in the novel will give you the creeps”
ans of ayaka Murata’s uni uely acidic fiction will be well ersed in the way she tweaks certain elements of the world we know in order to make it appear desperately absurd and with her most recent translation we are plun ed into a reality that di er es from our own in one crucial factor se between married partners is now considered incest and all children are born throu h artificial insemination. s you mi ht such a split from societal norms makes for an incredibly rich backdrop for our main character, Amane, to stand out from, and the dystopian ni htmare city e oked in the no el will i e you the creeps.
s booksellers constantly on the hunt for literary ad enture we find that our perspecti es are challen ed in some way by almost e erythin we read especially the kids’ books. o much of what’s thrown at us by the world in eneral would surely benefit from a bit of e ibility a desire to understand rather than immediately conclude and books will always be such a aluable method for doin ust that all you ha e to do is take a look.
Vanishing World by Sayaka Murata (trans. Ginny Tapley Takemori)
More at www.translatedbybristol.com Visit Storysmith at 36 North Street, Bedminster; 0117 953 7961 www.storysmithbooks.com
You’re never alone with a bench – whether you like it or not
I’m seated opposite what looks like a giant horse chestnut tree in ower tall white candelabra blossoms like Christmas candles protruding from every branch. It’s a si ht I find uite breathtaking, and I can see why they were brought over here from where they were first found on the forested mountainous borders between Greece and Albania.
I’m not the only one who has noticed this massive tree; two wood pigeons are happily munching away on the blossoms. This is one of the ways in which birds get moisture on a hot day. I’ve seen long-tailed tits almost strip a row of blackthorn.
When spring is as hot as this one, this sort of practice becomes commonplace. I’m sure it doesn’t do much for the subse uent fruit harvest. Part of the reason we have a pond.
The bench I’m viewing this from is towards the top end of St Andrew’s Park, and judging by just how full it is on Tuesday afternoon it’s become uite a popular haunt on a hot day for humans as well as pigeons. There is far more esh on show than is usually acceptable and on most of the men it is turning a bright
beetroot. I ponder the idea of coming back later and selling aftersun as a sideline.
The bench itself is stencilled with ‘You are not alone’. I’m sure this was reassuring during lockdown for the odd isolated sou but ri ht now I’m findin it a little sinister.
The older I get, the more I enjoy my own company. The difference between solitude and loneliness is a very personal take on the same situation. The wood pi eons seem uite content getting on with the job at hand rather than ockin to ether and fillin the sky. s does the solitary crow studying them from a nearby Austrian pine.
Insects fill the air enou h to make cyclists narrow their lips and look annoyed at everything as they risk swallowing a mouthful. Bees buzz from ower to ower ho er ies dart around in the shade of the trees hanging in the air like an army of stalking kestrels. All this means that nature is still working and the ban uet is bein set for the migratory birds’ return. Swallows and martins are already being spotted across wetlands where the insect boom happens earlier.
As my thoughts drift to the coming dawn choruses, someone
starts to play some music. Loud bass cuts through the still air. Soundwaves travel further in hot weather, which means its effects are ripplin throu hout the park and being expressed as a series of hard stares and the telltale twitching signs of human stress. Birds feel the same, and excessive noise from construction, tra c and crappy autotuned pop can interfere with everything from mating, to feeding and navigation.
e di erence between solitude and loneliness is a very personal take on the same situation”
I pour myself a tea and focus back on the pigeons again. One’s had its fill of moisture or music and takes to the air.
I’m beginning to appreciate these birds more than I ever did. We’ve one that visits the garden, and it looks most ungainly as it tries to peck at the feeders or wobble about on the ground, moving its head back and forth. Then it takes to the air and becomes a ballerina of the sky, gracefully manoeuvring itself with the utmost care and precision. I guess we all thrive or fail in different situations.
The music has stopped, the important act of loun in and
burning) in the sun can continue in a far more civilised manner. The pigeons multiply and a few long-tailed tits join them. They all have their own spot and there is plenty to go round. Just like most of the park they all seem to be perfectly content with being alone together. Come winter, the smaller birds will all ock together again for protection. oldfinches hang out with blue tits and the occasional sparrow. Many eyes are much better than a few and make harder prey for the sparrowhawks.
I wonder if they remember who had the loudest call and if they shun them? Probably not, and I’m sure I’d soon forget who was playing that auto-pop. n
Andy Hamilton is the author of several books including New Wild Order, The First Time Forager and Booze For Free. He coaches authors and will soon be o erin nature writin for wellbeing courses.
Visit www.andyhamiltonauthor.com –you can even nominate a bench for the next benchmark.
The shipshape Cornish town of Falmouth needs to be on every boat-fancier’s bucketand-spade list. MAL ROGERS pays a visit
The thing about Cornwall is its many offbeat options. It doesn’t take lon to find secluded beaches, hidden co es and remote cliffs. hen there are the legends, drawn from the ery top drawer of mytholo y. ozmary ool on Bodmin Moor is the home of Excalibur – although one has to qualify the word legend here. he odmin story is all about ma ical powers bein transferred to in rthur. e end has now been down raded to une pectedly arri in at the o ce with custard dou hnuts for e erybody.
ut laidback ornwall is happy enou h with that. all stories and tall ships form a wonderful alchemy alon with history eolo ical happenstance popular culture and cuisine. hey seem to ha e thou ht of e erythin . nd that includes the ancient port of almouth.
Most British towns today come with a motto: ‘York; so ood they named it once’ type of thin . almouth’s kicker is he spirit of the sea’. lthou h succinct and accurate it’s not the whole story. here’s a boho buzz oin on here too and a bur eonin culinary scene.
he sea of course is an e er-present backdrop the town has been at the centre of maritime affairs since na i ation be an. Its deep natural harbour made it strate ically important particularly from the th century onwards.
he town rew rapidly after the construction of endennis astle by enry III in the s which defended the estuary. y the s almouth had become a key packet station handlin mail ships between ritain and its empire. he town ourished durin the apoleonic ars which helped reshape not ust almouth but the whole of urope topplin monarchies and spurrin nationalism
Charles Darwin’s boat HMS Beagle docked here on the Fal River. Before landing at almouth arwin had spent fi e years on board, puzzling over wildlife and fossils. The theory of natural selection was on its way. Darwin got paid just £180 for the publication of On the Origin of Species, but was lucky enough. A respected editor read it and urged Darwin to write a book about pigeons instead. “Everyone is interested in pigeons,” he observed helpfully.
We took a voyage around the harbour on board Jonik, a 1930s motor cruiser with just room for eight passengers; our ticket for the boat also got us inside the National Maritime Museum Cornwall.
Eclectic is way too modest a word for this place. Situated right on the harbourside, the museum is a delight for landlubbers and sea dogs alike. With boats hanging from the rafters and a periscope poking above the roof, it’s part museum, part nautical playground. ids can hoist sails or climb aboard rescue craft rownups can daydream about owning a yacht, and everyone learns something without even realising it.
From voyages of exploration to tales of Cornish smugglers, it’s a journey through seafaring history that doesn’t take itself too seriously. pannin fi e oors and housing 15 galleries, the museum also has its Tidal Zone for underwater iews of the harbour and a -foot Lookout Tower for panoramic views.
The museum holds a series of changing exhibitions. rom inta e wa e-chasers to modern-day surf heroes the epic current show SURF! surveys the last 100 years of the sport in Cornwall. Set against the backdrop of miles of tlantic-washed coastline this ahem immersi e ourney unco ers how surfin shaped the region – and how Cornwall shaped global surf culture in return, from 1920s pioneers paddling out on wooden bellyboards to today’s world-class athletes car in clean lines at Fistral.
Of course, you don’t need a museum to appreciate matters nautical in Falmouth. Any stroll through the
“Tall stories and tall ships form a wonderful alchemy, along history,with geological happenstance, popular culture, and cuisine”
town will give you glimpses of the water through the opes – passageways with stone steps between buildings leading down to the water’s edge. You’ll see just about every type of craft here – yawls, ketches, sloops, gigs, pleasure cruises and working boats dredging for wild Fal oysters.
We wandered through the town on a spring day. The streets had a jaunty seaside air, with Falmouth’s trademark utterin buntin and a few murmurations of tourists here and there.
Our destination and shelter was the Star and Garter, a gastropub with rooms within a historic town house on the high street. Outside, it looks like a classic smuggler’s inn; inside are a handful of beautifully appointed apartments looking out across the Fal River. Here, I said to myself, is a place I’d like to relax in once in a while, maybe three or four times every week.
If you have the great good fortune to be staying here, you only have to stumble up the stairs, after a memorably good dinner and cocktails in the dining room, with its unbeatable harbour views, to your quarters – either the first- oor tarboard rooms the second- oor enthouse or the Crow’s Nest in the attic.
You could say that The Star and Garter is a microcosm of Falmouth itself. It’s a laidback place for dining, drinking, gazing at the sea, generally being happy; we’d go there as soon as possible, if we were you. n Further information: www.falmouth.co.uk
Star and Garter, 52 High Street, Falmouth, Cornwall TR11 3QY www.starandgarterfalmouth.co.uk General information: www.falmouth.co.uk
They were huge in the ’80s, they’re having a proper moment in the sun again, and we’re totally here for them.
We’re talking about wine bars. We’ve seen several opening in Bristol over the past few years, and the latest is Tapps – a new venture combining sustainable wines and small plates on Whiteladies Road. Freshly renovated, the old Thai Classic site now offers casual hi h table seatin a restaurant and two suntrap gardens.
Owners Neil and Olivia Greenwood have decades of hospitality experience, having run some of Bristol’s best-known nightlife destinations including PoNaNa and Bar Three, as well as pubs The Shakespeare, The Royal Oak and The George in Abbot’s Leigh. Working with Sustainable Wine Solutions, they’ve curated an impressive selection of vino with a particular focus on British wines.
As the name suggests, much of it will be served on tap(p), providing a fresh, sustainable alternative to bottled wine; each glass will be as fresh as the first pour and the barrels are returned and reused, reducing waste. Tapps will also offer wine to takeaway with a bottle return scheme.
You know you’re not in the actual ’80s, though, because of instead of simply playing Joe Sample on repeat this ‘listening bar’ lays on vinyl from live DJs at the weekends. www.tappswinebar.co.uk
Bristol fans of Bath’s Chai Walla won’t need any encouragement to visit their second branch, the bijou Little Chai on Princess Victoria Street.
Little Chai sells the guys’ signature vegan Indian street food from bright and colourful premises: we’re talking freshly made chai, chickpea curry and onion bhaji wraps, and of course the famous samosas.
Apparently Isambard Kingdom runel finds them the best in town funny that, because in Bath they come warmly recommended by Jane Austen. It’s basically a takeaway but they’ve squeezed a couple of tables outside with views to adding more. Call in for a chat and a chaat. @llittlechaico
Sad news for Hyde & Co fans already grieving the sale of the group’s eponymous bar: their izakaya diner Four Wise Monkeys on Clare Street has also now been sold, although they’ve cut a deal that will still allow them to run The Raven bar upstairs. In its place comes a new Bristol branch of Flat Iron, a restaurant democratically promising “great steak for e eryone its speciality is at-iron steak but it also serves bavette, wagyu steak and triple-cheese tru e bur ers with ery slimming-sounding sides of beef dripping chips and crispy bone marrow garlic mash. If you’re worried about getting your apanese street-food fi know that yde’s Seven Lucky Gods is still open at Cargo, and until the roup find a new home for our ise it will continue to operate via Deliveroo. www.fourwisemonkeysbristol.com; www. atironsteak.co.uk
In a si nificant up rade from its current Clarence Road site – currently listed as ‘temporarily closed’ on Google – Greek restaurant Sousta is thought to be moving into the hallowed premises of the old Casamia/Casa site on the ground oor of he eneral on ower uinea Street.
Casamia has had a strange and chequered history. Long one of Bristol’s most revered restaurants, and longtime holder of a Michelin star, it changed its style dramatically after lockdown. With owner/co-founder Peter Sanchez Iglesias
busy with his London restaurant Decimo, he moved young gun Zak Hitchman into the kitchen for something altogether more daring: 24+ courses in a very dark, very loud room, or in Zak’s words, ‘a weird gig with food’. It was good fun, it tasted great but it cost a ton, and Casamia duly closed. It reappeared brie y in the form of upmarket neighbourhood Italian restaurant Casa, but that closed too. Will Sousta with its ‘authentic Mediterranean food’ make a go of the site uess we’ll soon find out. www.soustabristol.co.uk
As everyone familiar with the Bristol food scene knows, collaboration is the name of the game in this neck of the woods. Here are a few tasty ones coming up.
Firstly, Oowee Diner – “Fast food that hits different is workin with fi e top Bristol’s restaurants, where they’ve challenged the “ridiculously talented chefs to create an owee bur er which embodies their unique style. The Picton Series – (“Next-level buns will be a ailable for one day a month, in limited numbers at owee’s Montpelier branch.
Collaborating restaurants include near neighbours Bianchis (that event’s already been and one aco apas on 1 June, Nadu on 29 June, Wangs on 31 August and Wilsons on 28 September.
“We’re proud to be part of Bristol’s legendary food scene, and this summer we’re bringing something special to the table say eam owee.
Instagram @oowee_diner
Next, a joint Instagram from Pazzo and Bank Bristol stopped us in our scrolling tracks. omethin ’s cookin it teased. n further in uiry we learned that a collab night between these two legends will be taking place at Bank on 21 May, followed by one at Pazzo – date to be announced later in the summer. We’ve seen the menu it looks incredible. Follow @pazzobybiachis and @bankbristol on instagram
Thirdly, how’s this for an award-winning collab? Alex Hayes’s burger restaurant Squeezed, which despite its teeny-tiny original Cargo premises won the National Burger Awards in 2019, has teamed up with Bristol’s equally beloved Wiper & True, UK Brewery of the Year at the Brewers Choice Awards 2024.
Under this new partnership, Squeezed will serve its renowned burgers and fries from a permanent kitchen at the Wiper and True taproom in ld Market. Expect the usual Squeezed classics, including the St Werburger, alongside a selection of vegetarian and vegan options.
Michael Wiper, founder of Wiper and True, has called it “A collaboration of dreams – delicious burgers and beautiful beer! You really can’t get much better than that. ero disa reement from us. www.wiperandtrue.com
The Pony Chew Valley has completed its fi e-year reno ation ahead of its th birthday next year. The next big date in the diary is the Pony Garden Party, which returns on bank holiday Monday, 26 May for a full day of BBQ on the terrace, cold drinks on the lawn, garden tours, cooking demos and a small market of local makers.
BBQ slots must be booked ahead, one slot per person or pre-order one of the ony ploughman’s picnic boxes. Free to attend, all welcome brin the do brin the kids brin your appetite. It’s lush there. www.theponychewvalley.co.uk
Congratulations to Arnolfini Café Bar, which has been listed in The Guardian’s top 50 Best Museum Cafés list – the only one in Bristol to make the cut.
It feels like the city distilled says The Guardian. olourful with pastel-pink and oran e walls eclectic with fairy lights and hanging baskets collapsing from the ceiling alon side paper toadstool shades and forward-thinkin with a sustainable, locally sourced menu.
“With the air of a noughties dive bar – just a lot cleaner and tidier – Blur and Fontaines DC blast from the speakers as a mix of students, tourists, and a few young professionals tuck into hearty brunches and simple lunches like cheese and onion toasties surrounded by i posters.
And that’s not even mentioning the outdoor terrace. www.arnolfini.or .uk cafe bar
A third opening from Burra? If they build them, Stan will come
Ican heartily recommend popping to one of the urra caf s. hey are all rather delightful. In fact, they’re very delightful indeed. Gorgeous, even. I love ’em. It could be because their food is fabulous their coffee con i ial and their ambience amazing. Or because they get so many of their supplies from local producers: a big box-tick right there. ut actually I think what’s even better than all of the above is the fact that they also seem to specialise in having really nice staff. ut there I’m ettin ahead of myself. ack to the be innin . This small group of Antipodean-themed cafés is coowned by ristol ears players Jake Heenan and Luke Morahan.
“I suspect that working for Burra might almost be as enjoyable as being a customer”
Like all savvy rugby players, well aware that a professional career in ruck’n’roll is necessarily brief –Luke has already retired and Jake is stepping down at the end of the year – they’ve built a nice little empire for their second career. hey opened their first urra in edland in and have been slowly and steadily expanding ever since. There was brie y a second branch on loucester oad but they relocated it to North Street instead. And now they’ve opened urra at one of ristol’s most coveted spots: on the corner of Clifton’s The Mall and Portland treet where ar hocolat used to stand.
Since this is the latest addition to the pack, I thought I’d saunter on over and take a look. See what this new place is like, when you get up close and personal. As hinted above, I’ve visited a couple of urra enues before and written about them here, and if you’re a regular reader you may recall I’m a bit of a fan. In fact, I’m a mahoosive fan. Hmm. Mahoosive – is that still a word these days? Will Gen Z readers understand? If not, Ed, please insert suitably modern and marvellous adjective. [Gen Z can take their chances – Ed]. Either way, point is, when I found out they had opened a new coffee bar in the heart of lifton
well, the CS chief taster and I just had to hurry on down.
One of the things I admire about these guys’ approach to life is that although this is the third of their coffee shops they all seem to have their own distinct, warm and welcoming thing going on. ame ibe different fre uencies. Which brings me neatly back to the staff. ou see on walkin into the Clifton café, one of the first smilin faces we saw was a lovely young lady who has been working in each of the three, e ually deli htful urra caf s I’ve visited. Makes me suspect that working there might almost be as enjoyable as being a customer.
Talking of customers, we were in a brunchish sort of mood when we arrived, so went for a brace of lovely things on toast. Scrambled eggs for the chief taster, smashed a o for me. oth of which were top-notch nosh of the finest water. he coffees were mi hty fine too.
In fact, they were so mighty and fine we decided to buy oursel es a bi ba of their coffee beans to take home, just so that we could relive the loveliness in the comfort of our own kitchen. n
Former The Housemartins guitarist Stan is now a journalist and travel writer; @stancullimore on instagram Google up Stan’s daily substack blog: Diary of an Urban Grandad
There’s an awful lot of coffee in Brazil. But have you ever tried the wine?
No, me neither. But shortly after I hit send on this piece, I’ll be popping open my first bottle part of a bigger focus we’re having at KASK on South American wines.
et’s be honest when we think of wines from across the pond and down a bit, we usually land on Malbec and... well, mostly Malbec. When Argentina began e portin it seriously years ago, they nailed the value-formoney brief.
At the time (and still now, really drinkers wanted reds with body, fruit and soft tannins Malbec deli ered that bi red wine hug with no weird aftertaste. As gastropubs boomed Malbec became the default ‘pairs well with meat’ bottle. Plus, it’s a catchy two-syllable word that looks reat in big font on a label.
ow I lo e Malbec especially from Mendoza. uicy soft packed with dark fruit it’s a crowdpleaser for a reason. But if you head higher up the Andes, you’ll find fresher leaner styles. o east, and you’ve got Argentina’s bold Bonarda (once basic, now brilliant), or Patagonian Pinot oir that ri als ur undy if Burgundy relaxed a bit.
South American wine isn’t just about Argentina though. Chile,
Uruguay, Brazil, Bolivia and Peru are all in the game.
hile is easy to find and often mentioned in the same breath as Portugal when it comes to value. Chile’s long and thin, its climate ranging from bone-dry desert to misty coastal valleys.
hile it’s lon been known for reliable Cab Sav, the exciting stuff now is comin from old dry-farmed ines in places like Itata and Maule. inemakers are turning out fresh, juicy, lowintervention reds that fit ri ht into KASK’s vibe. Add in the Andes to the east the acific to the west, and a natural lack of vine pests, and you’ve got ideal conditions for organic, sustainable winemakin . hey’re e en growing vines in the Atacama esert one of the driest places on Earth.
hen there’s ru uay which might just be the next big thing. Loads of fourth-generation winemakers whose randparents brought vines from Europe, growing everything from Albariño to Italian varieties and trying out
all kinds of techni ues because frankly no one’s told them not to.
heir si nature rape is annat ori inally from south west France, where it’s famously chewy and tannic. In Uruguay, though, they’ve mellowed it out into somethin silkier sa oury and utterly drinkable. It’s all super ele ant food-friendly stuff. ines that smoulder not shout. hink of it like findin your new fa ourite band before they headline lasto cool, fresh, and under the radar. If Uruguay is that indie band moment, Brazil is the anticipation of a am stumble into a mystery set on the ed e of a festi al field. he one we’ e ot in at is a traditional method sparklin wine made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, which seems to be Brazil’s sweet spot right now.
hen you think of razil you might picture tropical heat and the mazon not ideal for rapes. And you’d be right. But Brazil is massive, and in the far south is erra a cha.
“Patagonia’s Pinot Noir rivals Burgundy – if relaxedBurgundy a bit”
It’s here that Brazil is carving out a name for itself with bright, fruit-forward fizz and a growing number of natural and low-intervention projects.
I’ve run out of word count again, so Bolivia and Peru will have to wait. Probably for the best, as I’ve never had a wine from either (though I did once have a ery potent local li uor in the Bolivian Amazon to numb the pain of a root canal but that’s another story).
or now I’m off to crack open that Brazilian bottle. If it’s good,
you’ll hear about it at KASK. If it’s really good, we’ll probably be pouring it by the glass.
Three To Try at KASK right now
Vertigo Nature NV, Pizatto the aforementioned razilian parklin . umoured to be fresh and dry, with the name nodding to the heady thrill of this wine’s intense freshness. A classic Champagne blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, this comes from the Pizzato family who emigrated from Italy in the 19th century and were early champions of bottle fermented sparklin in razil
Anarkía Tannat ’21, Pablo Fallabrino ablo is ru uay’s leadin natural winemaker and one of its most unconventional voices. A surfer and jazz guitaris, his personality is re ected in the energy and playfulness of his wines. Pablo once said, “I’m not tryin to make perfect wines. I’m tryin to make ali e wines. he name nark a channels the wine’s non-conformist, natural character. It’s ru uay’s first sulfite-free wine crafted with zero additi es unfiltered and unoaked. he clenched fist on the label holding grapes is a symbol of winemakin rebellion.
Cuarenta 40/40 Malbec ’22 I couldn’t not pick a Malbec and this one is a delight with the winemaker ucas fister focused on producing low-intervention wines that express the terroir of his family’s vineyard 890 metres abo e sea le el in Mendoza. his is medium-bodied bursting with black cherry plum and cassis and with subtle oak spices.
Visit KASK Wine at 51 North Street 07522 198081; www.kaskwine.co.uk
DAVEY LIGHTING 7243
OCEANIC PENDANT, £POA
A contemporary twist on an original design from the dockyards of early 20th-century Britain; the galvanised steelcaged cover makes it suitable for indoors and out
From Oskar Furniture 47 Whiteladies Road www.oskarfurniture.co.uk
OONI KARU 12 MULTI FUEL PIZZA OVEN, £249 (FROM £299)
A taste of Italy: fuelled by wood or charcoal, this outdoor pizza o en cooks authentic wood-fired stone-baked 12-inch pizzas in just 60 seconds. reat for steaks fish and e too
From Whitehall Garden Centre, Norton Lane, Whitchurch; www.whitehallgardencentre.co.uk
IB LAURSEN TERRACOTTA POTS, £14-£19
Quick, the sun’s out! Let’s get the yard sorted before it changes its mind
BRAMBLECREST
SOMERFORD DOUBLE COCOON
CHAIR, £699 (FROM £971)
Swing when you’re winning; comes with invitingly plump cushions that are resistant to water, stains and frost
Clay terracotta plant pots in three sizes, with a lovely vintagey weathered texture
From Mon Pote 217a North Street www.monpote.co.uk
From Whitehall Garden Centre, Norton Lane, Whitchurch; www.whitehallgardencentre.co.uk
NIWAKI FORGED TOOLS, VARIOUS PRICES
Made with expert craftsmanship by Kondo blacksmiths in Sanjo, Japan; as beautiful as they are ergonomic
From Maze, 26-28 The Mall www.mazeclothing.co.uk
ALDAN OUTDOOR
TABLE LAMP, £85
This rechargeable table lamp lights up the night beautifully; you can dim and brighten it, and change from from warm white to cool white at whim. Also available in black, white and coral
From Cox & Cox www.coxandcox.co.uk ,
B LAURSEN BAMBOO BENCH, £66.50
While this bench should not be left outdoors full-time, it’s hardly a hardship to drag it in and out
217a North Street www.monpote.co.uk
CONCRETE BENCH PLANTER, £850
A modern, minimalist bench crafted from concrete with clean, simple lines and an
on-trend raw finish
From Graham & Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath
www.grahamandgreen.co.uk
BLOOMINGVILLE
COTTON THROW, £22
In case the unthinkable happens and the Bristol summer turns a bit parky From Fig1, Unit 9, Gaol Ferry Steps www.fi .co.uk
CANCÚN SIDE
TABLE, £254.15 (WAS £299)
Where elegance meets functionality on the patio – or poolside (you wish). In matt green or ash grey, like the sofa on the right From Bo Concept, 76-78 Whiteladies Road; www.boconcept.com
SONEVA PARASOL, £125
The jaunty blue and white stripes are giving us distinct La Fontelina beach club vibes From Cox & Cox www.coxandcox.co.uk
NKUKU VEMU IRON FIRE PIT, £210 (FROM £350)
Just chuck in a few logs and you’re sorted, even when the sun goes down
From Fig1, Unit 9, Gaol Ferry te s; www.fi .co.uk
NKUKU JEAVIKA RON OUTDOOR BISTRO CHAIR, £150
Just an absolute classic, which goes a treat equally with modern or traditional gardens From Fig1, Unit 9, Gaol Ferry Steps www.fi .co.uk
CANCÚN LOUNGE SOFA WITH CUSHION £679.15 (WAS £799)
Cool and minimal yet seductively comfy. Also in green so you can match with the table shown on the left
From Bo Concept, 76-78 Whiteladies Road; www.boconcept.com
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To discover how Emsella could benefit you, visit www.kindredskin.co.uk or scan the QR code. You can book a consultation with Dr Hannah, Dr Courteney, or our highly experienced pelvic floor physiotherapist, Hayley. We’ll take the time to understand your needs and create a personalised treatment plan.
For a limited time, we’re offering Bristol Life readers £100 off an initial course of six treatments — plus a free consultation. Simply quote BL100 at your consultation. n
KinDRed Clinic is located at 49 North View, Westbury Park, Bristol, BS6 7PY and we haveparking available directly outside. For appointments and enquiries, visit www.kindredskin.co.uk or email us at hello@kindredskin.co.uk.
Step away from the astroturf; park the neonicotinoids. A sustainable garden boosts not only your health and wellbeing but the quality of the air around you: let Bristol’s most green-fingered explain how it’s done
First, the good news. Overall, the UK’s air pollution is improving. Now, the bad: this is not necessarily true when you look at our cities. Bristol was urope’s reen apital in the first in the UK, and the city continues to make big strides towards sustainability; however, it’s also been among towns named and shamed for having unacceptable levels of air pollution.
There’s hope: after the council introduced the Clean Air Zone, for example, average annual nitrogen dioxide levels fell by almost 13% inside the zone and almost 10% outside within one year. Obviously such initiatives are essential, but we can all play our own small part, making changes in our homes and gardens which will directly impact the quality of the air we breathe.
So, how do we make our gardens green in both senses of the word? From building materials to thoughtful planting, four local experts pass on their advice.
Many garden designs begin with building structures, so choose your materials wisely.
“There is often some confusion when sustainable materials are discussed in design terms”, says Nick Woodhouse of Woodhouse & Law. “Such materials aren’t necessarily renewable or recyclable; they are, however, long-lasting, and can be applied in large quantities.
“Take stone, for example; a natural resource which doesn’t require factory manufacture. It’s also a durable material which will stand the test of time and outlast eetin desi n trends. ry to source reclaimed pa in stones, or stone from UK quarries, to minimise the carbon footprint of your outdoor space.”
“The more planting the better”, says Will Cooke of Artisan Landscapes. “Aim for around at least 50% green and 50% hard landscaping. In smaller spaces, many clients are choosing to ditch the
traditional lawn; while it’s better than paving, it doesn’t provide the same level of diversity as planting.
“If using stone, try to source from a quarry in the UK or use reclaimed materials.” Or, indeed, wood: “In a small garden space we created in Redland, we sourced timber for a set of steps which in a previous life had been the deck of the ss Great Britain – very cool!”
“As we become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of our purchases, it’s equally important to avoid overlooking existing pieces of garden furniture in favour of the new, the fresh, the clean”, says Nick Woodhouse. “We always advocate retaining and maintaining such items where we can, ensuring that timber furniture is regularly treated with non-toxic oil to increase its longevity.
“It’s important, too, to look holistically at a space, beyond the indi idual pieces to those finishes around them. here are many paint companies which claim to be natural, so it pays to carefully read the label on any product. For exteriors, Graphenstone Purifying Paints are leading the way in fusing sustainable and traditional raw materials such as lime with inert carbon graphene to create a natural mineral-based coating.”
om Murphy of ompass arden esi n echoes the irtue of reuse.
onsideration must be i en to limitin the uantity of material that enters and exits the site”, he says.
an e istin materials be re-used in the new desi n e en as bases for new structures such as patios an we make use of recycled or unwanted materials? We often try to source unwanted or excess pond-liners from other gardens, which can be reused perfectly adequately without the need to use new plastic.
“Online marketplaces are often rich sources of unwanted building materials, which can save money as well as being good for the environment.
“We sourced timber from steps taken from the deck of the ss Great Britain ”
he industry is increasingly looking towards more sustainable materials and building methods; cement manufacture is a highly polluting process, so we are looking at alternatives such as ‘green cement’ or other recycled aggregates. We also strive to limit the use of chemicals in landscaping processes, whether highly damaging herbicides or synthetic fertilisers.
“Finally, we are integrating methods to improve soil health, capture and store water, and promote biodiversity, for example by utilising ‘green roofs’ into all of our projects. Our gardens are our most accessible and immediate spaces in which to make an impact on the biodiversity of our environment, and it’s critical we take every opportunity to improve this.”
“We’d recommend leaving your lawnmower in the shed where and when you can”, says Nick Woodhouse. “By avoiding mowing part or all of your lawn for just a month, you’ll be amazed by the busy wildlife habitat you’ll create. ou may be surprised to find what’s already in your lawn i en the rare opportunity to row and bloom in this time. lo er is often included in packets of lawn seeds and may be joined naturally by other seeds dropped in by birds or blown into the arden. aisies speedwell and cowslips might appear, and if you are lucky, orchids too.”
“It’s vital that any truly sustainable garden looks to support the wildlife that lives, visits and feeds within it,” says Nick Woodhouse. “Take for example the ongoing decline in the UK’s bee population, much exacerbated by the loss of many of the country’s once ower-rich habitats.
i en that o er three- uarters of our diet is dependent on bee pollination, it’s vital that we all do whatever we can to tend to the health and survival of bees in our own gardens. Key to this is providing honeybees and other pollinators with a supply of pollen and nectar through the seasons.
It’s ad isable to a oid plants with double or multi-petalled owers such as hydran eas. ees can often stru le to et past their abundant petals, to what is often already a limited supply of pollen and nectar. Instead look for saucer-shaped or shallow blossom plants such as asters, and in colours that honeybees are
more drawn to: yellows, blues and in particular purples, which they can see more vividly than any other colour.
ees are most acti e between March and eptember and we’d recommend plantin a combination of owerin plants that offer a food source throu h these months and beyond.
rysimum owles’s Mau e’ is a reat option here with its lon owerin period and purple blooms.
o plastics or artificial rass says ill ooke. lants are i ers of life for birds insects and humans. rees take and convert it to oxygen: more trees, more clean air.
e’ e recently been in ol ed in the ollinator athway ro ect created by lora e erley transformin alleyways and paths in her local area by installing planters rich with planting to encourage wildlife and pollinators. A few of the plants we selected were achillea millefolium erracotta’ a astache lue ortune’ eum persicaria bistorta uperba’ and scabious.
“Given that over three-quarters of our diet is dependent on bee pollination, it is vital that we all do what we can to tend to their health and survival in our own gardens”
The single best thing we can do to ensure our gardens are good for the planet, says Tom Murphy of Compass Garden and Landscape Design, is making use of as many native species as possible. Oh, and don’t be too quick to dig up the weeds.
“Native plants play a crucial role in attracting and sustaining insect populations, which are often the keystone species in the complex ecosystems we rely on. By opting for native plants over imported species we support the entire food web, from insects to birds, bats, hedgehogs and beyond. If we all aimed to use at least 20-30% native species in our gardens it would have a huge impact.
“It’s worth considering allowing a few native plants, which some people may consider weeds, into a corner of the garden. Nettles, dandelions and dog violets serve as essential food sources for caterpillars, which later transform into butter ies.
here’s enerally ood awareness of the need to use owerin plants in the garden to attract pollinators, but less thought on where such insects come from originally; as such, using plants which are ‘larval food groups’ can have a big impact by introducing a range of wildlife to your garden. Native trees such as birch, willow and hawthorn, or shrubs such as ribes and other fruiting species, support a huge number of nati e butter y lar ae.
“Allow a few native plants, which some consider weeds, into a corner of the garden”
“Some clients are asking to have dedicated composting areas, and this all helps towards a sustainable garden, producing one’s own composts and mulches for use in gardens, which in turn promotes soil health with ood or anic matter says arden desi ner abitha arlin .
“With composting it’s a bit of a dark art to get the right balance of green to brown material to create a rich compost, so it’s worth reading around the subject. By composting, household and food waste can become valuable resources for your garden and reduce the amount of landfill.
Tabitha is also looking to install more gravel gardens, which use drought-tolerant and self-seeding plants, all of which help to conserve water.
“If it’s a sunny spot, Mediterranean-style planting will thrivelavenders, rosemary, verbenas, and herbs will all do well. Saving seed to grow new plants, propagating from your existing plants and dividing and sharing plants with friends, is a great sustainable way to get them. Check out the Bristol Seed Swap website for dates for exchanging seed and meeting likeminded people!
“If gravel gardens are not your thing, then putting a good mulch around plants can also help with keeping the moisture in the soil and plant roots cool, thereby lessening the need to water plants. Water butts are also a good way to conserve natural rainwater for use in the garden and are ine pensi e to install.
One of the peskiest challenges for gardeners is keeping the local army of leaf-munchers at bay.
“There is no space too small to make an impact”
ffecti e or anic pest control often requires a ‘trial and error’ approach and is often uite specific to the nature of the pest involved”, says Tom Murphy. “Beer traps are incredibly effecti e at catchin slu s whereas dilute li uid soap mi ture can be effecti e a ainst reen y or aphids. ompanion plantin of specific plants such as chives, rosemary or sage around vegetables can deter pests such as carrot y.
Will Cooke agrees that one of the most environmentally and pet-friendly options is companion planting. “It requires some plant knowledge, but an internet search would easily help. It involves growing specific plants to ether to attract beneficial insects. or e ample encouraging ladybirds with plants such as fennel, angelica, dill and cosmos will help mitigate aphids and mites.”
“Simply manually removing the insects from the plant is extremely effecti e but can be time-consumin so ultimately de elopin and supporting ecosystems in the garden will naturally create food webs and natural predators for the most damaging pests”, says Tom Murphy.
“There is no space too small to make an impact”, says Tom Murphy. “Even a small bucket can be used as a garden pond – and nature will soon find its way.
“Blank walls and roofs can be converted to green spaces using easily available ‘kits’ for green walls and green roofs. Using pots in every
a ailable space with a ran e of plants that ha e different owerin and fruiting times, can attract wildlife into the garden all year round.”
“Designing a new garden is incredibly exciting and it’s very easy to get carried away with your wishlist,” says Will Cooke. “Relaxed seating, dining, shade structure, outdoor cooking, sauna, hot tub, veg growing, storage etc – there’s so much you may want to include, but with smaller spaces you’re best prioritising two or three things and doing them really well, ensuring you give them the size they need to be fully functional, rather than compromising on all of them.
“Small gardens tend to be at the back of the house, typically with windows and doors looking out onto them. With this in mind, they must provide you with interest all year round. Interesting landscaping details, evergreen structure and garden lighting all help provide a beautiful vista even in the depths of winter.” n
YOU HAVE BEEN READING
Woodhouse & Law
www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk
Tabitha Tarling, Tabitha Tarling Garden Design
www.tabithatarling.co.uk
Compass Garden and Landscape Design
www.compassgardendesign.co.uk
Artisan Landscapes
www.artisanlandscapes.co.uk
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In our fast-paced and demanding world, we all need a place of sanctuary in which we can relax, entertain, be inspired, and escape. At Compass Garden & Landscape Design we have designed a huge range of gardens to perfectly suit our clients’ styles, needs and budgets. Designer Tom Murphy answers your questions to explain how he can help you achieve the garden of your dreams.
Why should I hire a garden designer?
A designer will enable you to plan and implement your garden project seamlessly. We guide our clients all the way from the concepts through to construction and planting, and can take away the stress of finding contractors by managing the build. We will listen to your needs and take on board your ideas and personal style, whilst also providing innovative ideas to enhance your outdoor space.
I’m overwhelmed by my garden at the moment – how do I know where to start?
Hiring a designer is the perfect way to start! We are able to ascertain the priorities for a garden and will discuss with you all the steps of the design and landscaping process. Many clients prefer to undertake a garden project in different stages and we can help with managing this efficiently.
When should I get the process started? We can start designing your garden at any time of year. The process from consultation to final design typically takes a few months so it’s important to factor that in if you have a target start date for the construction. Landscaping can be carried out year-round, and planting can be staggered to suit the seasons.
is breathing life into gardens across the South West, creating outdoor spaces that are truly incorporated into your home and your life
Is it worth using a designer for a small garden? Yes! In fact these are the gardens that often benefit the most from a really great design and we have created many smaller city and new build gardens, with a focus on making the area both unique and practical. We work on making the most of the space and creating the feel of a much larger garden through the clever use of features and planting.
How do I know what I can get for my budget? During our initial consultation we can discuss your requirements for the garden; from here we can give estimates for the costs of construction, materials and plants, and can tailor our designs to maximise your budget.
I don’t want a full design but I do need help with certain parts of the garden – can you help? We often work on producing designs for individual areas of the garden; you may wish to update a patio, create a decking area or wildlife pond, or you may need help with a new planting scheme. We can help with all these things, large and small.
Can you help me to encourage wildlife? We aim to promote biodiversity and encourage pollinators in all our gardens, by incorporating wildlife-friendly features and native plants in our designs. We also try wherever possible to reuse materials and to avoid chemicals that may cause harm to the ecosystem. n
“We really appreciated your hard work, dedication and professionalism throughout our garden project. It could not have been in better hands. We are so pleased with the space –open, green, calming, practical – everything you said it would be” – One of our happy clients
•We make the process of designing and landscaping your garden seamless and stress-free
•We oversee the whole process from start to finish
•We have inspirational ideas, which are tailored to your own needs and personal style
•We are a well-established and multi-award-winning local businesss
Scan the QR code to book in your free design consultation with us and let’s get started! 07920051549; office@compassgardendesign.co.uk www.compassgardendesign.co.uk
STRANG & CO: THE PROPERTY FINDERS WITH THE SMART MOVES
Keep up-to-date with our latest news, deals, testimonials and market comment at our website: www.burstoncook.co.uk
St Mary’s Way, Thornbury TO LET – £16,000 pax
1,186 sq ft (110.23 sq m)
An exciting opportunity for a ground and first floor unit at The St Mary's Centre in Thornbury. Situated under the busy covered passageway. Ample customer and staff parking on site.
H2, Harlequin Office Park, BS16
TO LET - £19.50 PSF
3,068 – 11,045 sq ft (285 – 1,026 sq m)
A most impressive and substantial modern HQ office, located in a prominent position on the business park with the space being available over ground and first floors. On site car parking with EV charging points.
Whiteladies Road, Clifton TO LET – POA
11,984 sq ft (1,113.31 sq m)
A high quality HQ office which has been upgraded to a high standard, providing very good quality office space with a light and contemporary feel. Ample on site car parking.
Durdham Park, BS6
TO LET – POA, 1,042 – 2,948 sq ft (274 - 97 sq m)
Two self-contained buildings located within close proximity to Whiteladies Road and Clifton and Durdham Downs. The properties can be available as a pair or separately. Currently benefitting from educational use although would suit other uses (STP).
Horseshoe Lane, Thornbury
TO LET – £17,500 PA
1,032 sq ft (95.87sq m)
A bright and airy ground floor commercial unit with glazed frontage at St Mary’s Shopping Centre in Thornbury. New lease.
The Mall, Clifton TO LET – POA
820 sq ft (76.18 sq m)
A bright ground floor and basement premises within an exceptional position on The Mall in the heart of Clifton Village. New terms available.
High Street, Kingswood FOR SALE – POA
1,254 sq ft (116.5 sq m)
Freehold for sale. Would suit owner occupier, developer or investor. Prominent corner position. Retail and offices available as a whole. Potential for residential conversion, subject to planning.
St Pauls Road, Clifton TO LET – POA, 600 – 2,618 sq ft (55.75 – 243.21 sq m)
A substantial end of terrace office building providing self contained accommodation over ground and upper floors with excellent on site car parking. The space is due to be refurbished to a contemporary standard.
Queen Square, BS1 FOR SALE – POA
2,751 sq ft (255.57 sq m)
An attractive, self-contained office building situated on the prestigious Queen Square with a courtyard garden befitting from 4 car parking spaces.
High Street, Portishead TO LET – POA
1,226 sq ft (113.9 sq m)
A high-quality self-contained corner pitched retail unit over ground and first floor, with stores and W.C’s. There is a rear car park with space for three vehicles as well as external bike storage.
the founder of STRANG & CO, the company helping purchasers looking to buy or rent in the Bristol area
We search the entire market on behalf of our clients, including off-market opportunities ad ise on offer le els negotiate on a client’s behalf, and oversee the transaction through to completion, thus saving our buyers’ time, often money, costly mistakes and stress, in what is often a complex and lengthy process”, says Charlotte.
Tell us about the career path that took you to the job
I am a chartered surveyor, and worked at Savills in London for the best part of a decade where I gained experience in various areas of the business before specialising in the valuation of residential property. aluin some of the finest properties in London gave me a strong appreciation of the attributes which make property an exceptional investment.
What took you back to Bristol?
I relocated back here in 2017 and worked as a development surveyor for fi e years which enabled me to ain an in-depth knowled e of the local property market, hone my negotiation skills and build up a fantastic network of trusted contacts.
The experience I have created from working in the property industry for almost 20 years has helped immensely in my current role.
When did you decide to start Strang and Co, and what were the initial challenges?
During the pandemic, I paused to reassess my career just as the property market was being reshaped by widespread relocations and e ol in home-workin needs. I reco nised an opportunity to offer independent, expert guidance to buyers, many of who were missing out on properties due to fierce competition.
Timing, however, proved to be my first real test. Immediately after launching Strang & Co, Liz Truss’s government announced their mini-bud et which si nificantly cooled buyer sentiment. The resulting slowdown did, however, give me the space to deepen my industry connections and broaden my professional network, which has reatly benefited the e cacy of my business in the long term.
Who is your typical customer?
My clients range from local residents seeking their ideal home to individuals relocating from other parts of the UK or overseas. They typically fall into three categories: those upsizing, downsizing or pursuing investment opportunities. On several occasions, I have been appointed by parents of Bristol University, who have entrusted me to secure apartments that meet their children’s living needs, while also fulfillin their in estment ob ecti es.
How do you differ from standard estate agents?
Unlike estate agents, who are instructed by a vendor to sell their property, a property search or buying agent works exclusively for the purchaser. Strang & Co is completely independent and therefore searches the market in its entirety, with a particular focus on findin off-market opportunities. We only ever take on a small number of mandates at any one time, ensuring our clients are provided with a fantastic service, and no con icts of interest result.
How do you maintain strong relationships with clients and partners in the industry?
I limit the number of clients I represent at any one time, allowing the necessary time to invest and understand each individual’s circumstances and property aspirations. This focused approach ensures frequent, transparent communication and fosters a deep level of trust. Since founding Strang & Co, I’ve maintained ongoing relationships with every client – a rewarding testament to the enduring connections we build.
How is the property market in Bristol right now?
In recent months, we’ve seen a robust spring market, with increased listings and corresponding demand, particularly compared to the same period in 2024. Understandably,
“I SEE OUR REPUTATION RESTING ON DELIVERING HONEST, INTEGRITYDRIVEN ADVICE”
against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and a cost-of-li in s ueeze the market remains hi hly price-sensiti e. Properties priced ambitiously have tended to stagnate, whereas well-positioned homes those that combine an attractive location, high specification enerous outdoor space, parking and strong energy performance – consistently draw competitive interest, with ‘best and final’ bids not bein uncommon.
What do you predict to be the next hotspots?
The regeneration of the Temple Quarter and St Philip’s Marsh area, which aim to deliver approximately 10,000 new homes, will be appealing to investors who are willing to take a relati ely lon -term iew. he redevelopment of this area will also benefit surroundin areas such as Brislington, Totterdown and Bedminster, which have already increased in popularity over the past fi e to years.
YTL’s redevelopment of the former ilton irfield is another hotspot, particularly for professionals and families working in the area and will be enhanced further by the direct rail link, scheduled for autumn 2026, from Brabazon (North Filton) direct to Temple Meads.
Where do you see the company in five to 10 years’ time?
I envisage Strang & Co helping an e er- rowin number of clients to secure the perfect property for their life stage, backed by a small but highly skilled team with deep local knowledge across a number of geographical areas. I see our reputation resting on delivering honest inte rity-dri en ad ice and superb service – we’ll sustain that standard as we continue to expand.
For more: www.strangandco.com
BAFTA albert, the leading authority on environmental sustainability in the screen industries has o cially named he ottle ard tudios’ facility as the hi hest performin studio of the year in its tudio ustainability tandard eport makin it the most sustainable film and studio in the world. is rated utstandin with an o erall score of meanwhile he ottle ard tudios’ main site is rated cellent with a score of . s a dual-site comple he ottle ard tudios accommodates productions workin at a ran e of bud ets with differin needs but our commitment to sustainability is consistent across our entire operation said aura iles head of film for ristol ity ouncil. ur state-of-the-art facility has sustainability embedded into e ery element of its desi n includin its M community-owned solar rooftop whilst our main site continues to dri e forward a re ime of impro ements and our operational team makes e ery effort to help productions work more sustainably with a particular focus on supporting a circular economy here in Bristol. We remain fully committed to continuing this important work going forward.” he lar est film and studio in the est of n land he ottle ard tudios offers sta es across two sites. i ht sta es are located at its main site and three premium soundproofed sta es at its million e pansion facility backed by est of n land Mayoral ombined uthority in estment. It’s hosted a steady stream of hi h-end bookin s since openin in includin the recent isney hit Rivals he ottle ard tudios is currently shortlisted for tudio of the ear at the lobal roduction wards which celebrate outstandin and sustainable work in the world of film and production locations and studios. he awards take place on May at the annes Film Festival.
For more: www.thebottleyard.com
Groundbreaking plans for the Severn tidal lagoon mark a potential milestone in the UK’s renewable energy landscape. Backed by a report from the Severn Estuary Commission, the proposal aims to harness the region’s formidable tidal range to generate reliable, ecofriendly electricity.
Bristol Central MP Carla Denyer, joined by Wales Green Party leader Anthony Slaughter and Bristol City Council’s Green leader Tony Dyer, hailed the project as a beacon of innovation and a crucial step towards enhancing national energy security. Not only do the plans have the potential to meet soaring clean energy demands but also to foster local job growth and environmental stewardship. With urgent calls for government support, proponents envision the tidal lagoon not just as a singular project, but as a blueprint for future sustainable energy initiatives across the UK. This ambitious venture promises to position the UK at the forefront of global renewable energy technology. For more www.severncommission.co.uk
Bristol has long been regarded as one of the world’s greenest cities it was the first in the to be desi nated the uropean reen apital and it’s the ’s first cyclin city’. oday its reen arty council continues the fi ht to tackle climate chan e.
And now the city has scored highly in a new survey by travel comparison company n oy ra el in a list of the best ‘ecotourism’ destinations around the globe.
Enjoy Travel scores each destination on its environmental footprint, natural beauty, traditions and the way it secures wildlife for future generations. “Bristol is England’s leading eco-friendly city, with the local council and residents working together on climate action plans”, said Enjoy.
he city pled es to be carbon-neutral by throu h sustainable urban planning, zero-emission public transport and increased recycling processes. For visitors, the green spaces, zero-waste shops, and community initiatives make Bristol a great destination for eco-conscious travellers. Combined with its laidback yet lively vibe, contemporary galleries, and historic harbour, it’s what truly makes Bristol an exciting city.”
For more www.enjoytravel.com
Aardman founder Peter Lord has donated £4m to help turn a former dairy farm into a nature reserve.
A longtime supporter of Avon Wildlife Trust, Pete’s most recent donation has enabled the Trust to buy the 44-hectare Ebdon Farm on the North Somerset Levels. The Trust calls the farm ‘one of its largest projects to date’, explaining that the aim is to turn it into a ‘haven for biodiversity’.
The farm has been bought by the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation grant-giving charity, to secure it for Avon Wildlife Trust, which now has two years to come up with the millions of pounds needed to take it over long-term – an initiative hugely helped by a National Lottery donation and the contribution from Pete. “I had a delightful visit to Ebdon Farm and this project is a wonderful and inspiring one,” he said
“I admire the team’s knowledge and enthusiasm for the site, and I can’t wait to see nature return and thrive here. I hope others will be inspired to support Avon Wildlife Trust too.”
For more www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/ebdon-farm
Design and build landscape gardeners
Artisan Landscapes has won three “Best in ate ory awards and fi e old medals at the 2025 APL (Association of Professional Landscapers) National Awards. This makes a total of eight awards received by the company at the event.
Founded by Will Cooke, the Westburyon-Trym company works across the UK, with a focus on the South West.
“The APL represents the highest standards in landscape design and
construction across the UK, with members rigorously assessed on quality, professionalism, and customer service,” says Will.
”Winning is a prestigious achievement that recognises outstanding craftsmanship, attention to detail, and excellence in garden design and build. To be selected among the best in the country by an expert judging panel is a true honour and a testament to the hard work and talent of our team.”
For more: www.artisanlandscapes.co.uk
Studio Giggle, the Bristol-based creative powerhouse in Paintworks, has secured a coveted spot among the top 50 UK production companies. enowned for its stellar film and animation prowess
Studio Giggle has a prestigious client roster which includes Manchester United, British Airways and Bristol Beacon.
This latest accolade, bestowed by EVCOM and Moving Image, places Studio Giggle at 23rd overall and marks it as the sole representative from the South West on the list.
“This achievement is a testament to our talented team, our dedication to innovation, and our commitment to delivering exceptional content for events and global brand marketing campaigns”, said Rob King, newly appointed CEO of Distortion Creative Group, Studio Giggle’s parent company.
With ambitious growth plans on the horizon, founder Steve Garratt expressed profound optimism, citing the ranking as a milestone in their two-decade journey of pushing creative boundaries.
For more: www.studiogiggle.co.uk
Well, not quite. Aardman Animations has partnered with Studio Griggs to develop a fresh visual direction for the Wallace & Gromit brand, released through two themed design packs for the global market, and a specialised packaging guide for the East Asian market.
The new design packs introduce a modern and playful aesthetic, featuring updated vector character artwork, new icons, patterns, typography, colour systems, and placements, with a thematic strategy at its heart.
‘Home Sweet Home’ is filled with playful details inspired by the nostalgic interiors, and cosy domesticity of 62 West Wallaby Street, highlighting Wallace and Gromit’s life together.
Occasional lodgers also feature, from criminal mastermind Feathers McGraw to slightly less dodgy visitors such as Shaun the Sheep.
For more: www.aardman.com
Three of Bristol’s top legal eagles explain their own particular speciality
01173 749637 / 07387 261296 www.thrings.com
What do you specialise in?
I’m a partner in our family team, offering guidance and support to people during the most personal and often difficult times in their lives. I assist both married and unmarried couples throughout all stages of a relationship, whether that’s moving in together and they’re thinking about cohabitation or pre-nuptial agreements, or if they decide to separate and need advice on resolving financial matters or resolving property disputes.
What is the biggest mistake you see your clients making?
Primarily, not seeking advice at the earliest opportunity. While it’s encouraged, and indeed beneficial, to reach an agreement amicably, there is a real advantage in fully understanding your legal position early on, before entering negotiations.
What makes working in Bristol special?
Bristol is a great city with an incredible focus on independent business – there are so many wonderful bars, restaurants and shops. It’s also a welcoming place and, with everything so close, it has a strong community feel.
What is your firm’s ethos and philosophy?
Thrings is brilliant at taking a client-focused approach, utilising the resources and experience from across the firm’s various service areas, providing a tailored approach to meet the client’s needs.
CARON SEAWERT SENIOR ASSOCIATE
0117 925 2020; www.vwv.co.uk
What is your area of legal specialism? I work in residential conveyancing dealing, with the legal aspects of buying and selling residential properties as well as dealing with remortgages and transfers between parties. My specialism is dealing with clients with more complex conveyancing needs, which can include work involving high-value or listed buildings, retirement property, new-build property, the division of land or the variation of leases.
What was your very first job?
My first job was in construction. I trained as a quantity surveyor with a specialist design-and-build company dealing with the pricing and precontract elements of commercial contracts including the tendering process. The job was an experience, especially as this was at a time where fewer women held jobs within this field, making site visits interesting to say the least! It also introduced elements of contract law to me, which sparked my interest in the legal profession, so that when the company I worked for unfortunately folded I made the decision to switch careers, retrain and move to property law.
What is the most common mistake you see clients making?
Clients can sometimes be guided by their emotions rather than the facts. This is completely understandable, given the personal investment, especially when selling a much-loved family home or finding a forever home which they want no matter what. This is where a good conveyancer can help their clients to take stock and explain what is happening, and what solutions there are to resolve this. By taking a breath this can hopefully avoid any rash decisions which later lead to disappointment or regret.
JAMES RADCLIFFE
WOMBLE BOND DICKINSON (UK) LLP 0345 415 0000; www.womblebonddickinson.com/uk
What is your area of legal specialism?
I am a tax, trusts and estate-planning lawyer specialising in transitioning wealth tax efficiently between generations. Clients come from different backgrounds – for example, business owners, professionals or landowners – but their aims and objectives are often similar. Our work frequently involves implementing lifetime or post-death strategies that include the use of trusts, family investment companies or wills. While the majority of my clients are UK-based, I am also able to advise where there is a cross-border element, particularly with the US.
What is the most common mistake you see clients making? Clients sometimes leave estate-planning conversations too late. As a general rule, the earlier specialist advice is sought, the more can be done to help a client achieve their objectives. This could be in the context of lifetime gifting or steps that might be taken prior to selling a business interest. For US clients, the most common mistake is to not have understood in advance that dual exposure to taxes requires a specialist estate plan.
What are your predictions for your sector over the next 12 months?
The Chancellor has announced several changes to inheritance tax law coming into force over the next couple of years. We will be busy talking to clients about how these changes will impact them and whether any steps should be taken to mitigate the anticipated impact on their families.
istory and charm fills e ery corner of this country house near ackwell
Words
by Ursula Cole
It’s di cult to decide which of hel ey ourt’s myriad charms is the most persuasi e.
Mi ht it be the history that seals the deal for you here’s lots of it. he rade-II country house was built between the early to mid s in the tuart style and has maintained much of the ori inal charm and atmosphere.
r could it be it the e tensi e parklike rounds here’s o er fi e and a half acres alto ether uite beautifully landscaped.
Maybe it’s simply a desire for a peaceful rural life he house is idyllically situated in the pretty hamlet of hel ey with open south-facin iews to wooded hills across open farmland to the south and to north across to the yntesfield estate. owe er it’s by no means in the back of beyond it’s only about ei ht miles south west of ristol and about one mile west of ackwell. or daily needs ackwell and rockley tores farm shop are e en closer.
hel ey ourt is currently co-owned by two families who bou ht the property in a near derelict condition in the mid s and ha e since lo in ly restored it in accordance with the principles of the ociety for the rotection of ncient uildin s. hile the house is currently eared up for two families li in uite independently in their own sections the house could seamlessly be reinstated as one. hey ha en’t ne lected the rounds either. rom an uninspired piece of land they ha e created a ma nificent arden landscaped with terraces and planted o er a thousand trees all now mature. ookin for a more unusual here’s also an amphitheatre.
t the core of the home a ma nificent oak acobean staircase si feet wide with splendid turned balusters
and newels –rises around a square stairwell, which begins on the ground oor and rises to the top. ake a minute to admire the hu e pendant of ornamental plasterwork abo e the stairwell; it’s hung there since the early s.
ll o er the house are further features from the tuart period intact and in ood workin order. here are stone mullion windows under drip mouldin s car ed stone fireplaces some superbly car ed and a number fitted with lo -burnin sto es painted panelled rooms pennant stone oorin at round le el one lar e room pa ed in limestone is thou ht to be of the older udor period some ori inal oak oorin in the upper oors stone internal archways ancient window shutters and window seats.
hanks to its sli htly ele ated position the iews from both house and rounds are a deli ht. o the north east you can gaze across the adjoining farmland to wooded hills yntesfield and elmont ill to the west o er its own land and parklike settin .
It also has a suitably auspicious approach. n a enue of lime trees leads throu h rich landscapin to a turnin circle. rom this an le the reat house has an almost castle-like appearance monumental and stone- abled with a dozen or more stately chimneys all repaired most beautifully.
he formal walled top arden is deli htfully desi ned with a small open-fronted south-facin arden. ramed by the th-century t rid et’s church on one side and
Chelvey Court’s entrance facade on the other, there are level lawns, an intricate topiary garden of box and yew, other taller topiary pieces, a water feature, and a private pathway to the church. A secluded sunken garden on this east side is reached by doors which open out from the round oor.
Where? Chelvey, near Blackwell
Guide price: £2.25m
The gardens to the west have boxed yew hedges separating neighbouring Chelvey Old Hall from Chelvey Court. Mowed lawn pathways run through a mixed orchard of apple, pear, plum, quince, medlar and walnut, leading to a kitchen garden with raised beds and a greenhouse. Outbuildings include two charming stone pyramid roofed buildings and an open-sided summer house. A detached timber barn sits opposite the house, with a big woodburning stove to heat it up on chillier days; a huge north-facing window brings in the light, making it perfect for a workshop or studio.
Bedrooms: 10
Receptions: 5
Bathrooms: 4
Outside: 5.53 acres
What else?: Numerous outbuildings
Call my agent: Knight Frank 0117 317 1999; www.knightfrank.co.uk
Fallen in love with the house, but only have half the asking price? It is, of course, already geared up to be split between two families; however, if you have the asking price we really wouldn’t blame you if you kept it all to yourself.
JUNE 18-19
WATERSHED
No better man to grace the back page of our festivals issue than the former circus boy and ‘conscious showman’ of Shindig
Every imaginative child dreams of running away with the circus. Very few actually do.
luffee did thou h at the age of 15; little wonder that he now brings “the uirky eccentric e tras that make hindi so uni ue but also plenty of pro ocati e elements too to his role as the festi al’s creative director and ‘conscious showman’.
So what exactly is a conscious showman?
It’s the result of rowin up in the world of circus and being on the frontline of direct-action environmental campaigns.
How did you get into the events biz?
I grew up in North London. I went to my first festi al when I was 15 – one of the last free festivals in the UK. It was here I met a four-year-old in a sandpit who took me back to meet his family. They asked if I wanted to oin the circus his mother named me luffee and it stuck. hey took me under their win and I never looked back.
What’s special about Shindig?
Fiercely independent and outstandin ly creati e there’s a magic about Shindig that is hard to articulate but easy to spot. e’ e come from the ra e and circus scene so it’s the ideal boutique festival for party people with families.
We heard that 2024 was to be its last year, but now it’s back – how come?
ince o id people ha e been buying their tickets later and later which has meant it’s e tremely stressful for festivals to pay for acts and infrastructure months ahead of the show. After thinking it was all o er we mana ed to strike a deal with tickets. It’s a three-year deal in which we still retain our independence.
Will it be different in any way?
e’re in a new location the outstanding Charlton Park Estate in iltshire. It’s the old omad site e cept we’re in the beautiful arboretum.
Can you sum up Shindig’s musical vibe?
DJs and selectors remain at the
“I can only imagine the innocence, optimism and magic of being a pioneer; the feeling you could change the world”
heart of the festi al. e’ e also got a heightened focus on highenergy live performances this year makin it the perfect time to showcase frobeat hi hlife and jazz-funk to our Shindig faithful. e feel we’ e struck the perfect balance enre-definin acts sit alongside some of the most e citin emer in and lesser-known talents.
ot only that hindi ers can e pect new sta es. alcyon the biggest) will be home to several fresh takeo ers includin orn on oad drum bass ltern - ear nni ersary old-school and in er ickin’ breaks .
Is food important at Shindig? We take great pride in sourcing hi h- uality locally sourced food as or anic as possible.
Is Shindig suitable for kids? e’ e won awards for our family and craft area. All the directors ha e kids ran in from si months upwards so it’s crucial they’re entertained while we put on the show. Think circus skills climbin walls space hoppers and sandpits. Older kids can get involved in the hugely popular ra ti all and attend M in and breakdance workshops.
Is there any other festival you’d never miss?
I’ e been to lastonbury festi als from operatin rickshaws to performing and running stages in the circus field plus ha in my own circus company there.
If you had a time machine, which festival would you go back to?
The Human Be In – or One of
the Acid Tests that the Merry Pranksters and Ken Kesey were involved in. I can only imagine the innocence optimism and magic of being a pioneer – that feeling of being untouchable and that you could chan e the world that you were part of something positive and life-changing.
Where do you live, and what makes it great?
I live on the self-build community he ard in t erbur h’s with a lovely family who have taken me under their wing. The whole community looks out for each other and parties together.
Tell us a bit about your favourite parts of the city I lo e the harbour I’m refittin a -year old boat. I’ e also ust disco ered randon ill after having been here for 12 years!
Do you have any secret skills? I’m in ol ed in creati e and conscious projects all over the world from eston-super-Mare to anama. I’m a passionate sailor of old boats – I founded the ’s first sustainable shippin company and ha e worked all over the world bringing produce such as rum coffee and chocolate via sail power.
And what is your most regrettable habit?
I’m really bad at rememberin names and faces.
How would your nearest and dearest describe you?
e’s doin a fine ob of keepin the honourable tradition of the Merry Prankster alive.”
Shindig runs 22-25 May For more: www.shindigfestival.co.uk
