Bristol Life – Issue 370

KC AND THE SUNSHINE*

KAISER

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

CLIFTON VILLAGE

Clifton, Bristol | Guide Price £3,500,000

A stunning detached house on a favoured road close to Clifton College, beautifully refurbished by the current owners to create a superb family home.

Exquisite circa 4800 sq ft family home with a gated drive and mature gardens | Six double bedrooms and four bath / shower rooms | Circa 40’ full depth family kitchen, snug and breakfast room | Four further reception rooms and a gym | Separate utility and two further cloakrooms | Landscaped front and rear gardens | Sunken courtyard and outdoor cooking and seating area | Gated drive with parking for several vehicles | Detached 300 sq. ft garage and workshop | EPC: D In all circa 5101 sq. ft (474 sq. m)

Clifton Village: the most elegant, swellegant suburb of them all. You don’t have to own a sports car to live here, but it helps Georgian on our mind

First, a bit of history.

We first launched this magazine back in April 2004 – I know, I know, we don’t look a day over 20. What can I say? We like to work out.

Anyway, here’s the thing. The then-owners of the magazine insisted that we called it Clifton Life, because they felt BS8 summed up Bristol at its aspirational best.

To be honest it seemed a bit mad to me then, and it would be even madder today –not merely because so many other Bristol neighbourhoods have comprehensively up and come, their once down-at-heel high streets now buzzing with vibrant independent businesses, but because ‘aspiration’ in Bristol means so many different things. If anything, the city is far more about heart and community, creativity and collaboration than a cluster of nice coffee shops and boutiques. Anyway, we renamed the magazine Bristol Life in June 2015 and we’ve tried to cast a democratic geographical net ever since.

PHOTO BY BEN ROBINS

But – and you probably sensed a ‘but’ coming – while the rest of the city was busily cleaning up its act, Clifton remained serenely unchanged. There was nowhere for Clifton to up and go to; gorgeously elegant since its 18th-century inception, it had already attained perfection. New cafés, restaurants and shops may have replaced old ones –though in fact many businesses that were around in 2004 are still thriving – but this elegant ’burb clinging to the cliffside of the Gorge remains as enduringly lovely as when we launched that first issue.

We regularly take the pulse of the Village by running special area profiles; we like to ring the changes in how we approach these, and this time we’ve simply let a bunch of locals give us the lowdown.

(In the past we’ve sometimes done them as an A-Z, which was kind of fun, but now the Zoo has closed, so I guess that’s out.)

DERI ROBINS Bristol Life editor @BristolLifeMag

Issue

That’s not just any old classic car. That’s a Bristol. Photo by Alexander

James

STREET LIFE

8 CLIFTON VILLAGE Still the fairest of them all

25 ART PAGE Is it possible to be too fabulous?

26 WHAT’S ON Summer in the city

32 ART Three’s the charm

34 MUSIC Are you ready to yell Na Na Na Na Na! back at Kaiser Chiefs?

36 BRISTOL HEROES Life; it’s a balancing act

40 BOOKS oreign affairs

43 BENCHMARK Nature in the heart of the city

44 RESTAURANT The brilliance of Bulrush

46 FOOD& DRINK Mmmm... beer

49 CAFÉ SOCIETY e who ares, wins great coffee

51 WINE English wine. No, seriously

SHOPPING

54 ED’S CHOICE It was all yellow

EDUCATION

57 CHOOSING A SCHOOL Are you asking the right questions?

59 OFFICE AFFAIRS The best workspaces around 69 BUSINESS NEWS Top stories, news and views, q&as and the return of EntreConf

78 SHOWCASE Ahead of the curve

6 SPOTLIGHT

89 BRISTOL LIVES Roseanna Anderson & Joshua Ben-Tovim of Impermanence

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 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 Business development manager Jessica Ashleyjessica.ashley@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. We’re a West Country-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath and Bristol. Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events

SPOTLIGHT

Charity

DOING IT FOR THE KIDS

Well, this is nice. The Children’s Book Project, which aims to get books into the hands of kids and families who might not otherwise have access to them, is holding a special collaboration with a number of independent UK bookshops this month. A total of 45 UK bookshops are involved; impressively, Bristol accounts for seven of them, a number exceeded only by London.

A part of Independent Bookshop Book Week (14-21 June), this is the fifth year the campaign has run, and with your help the charity e pects to hit a significant milestone of 50k donated books. Until 21 June, you’ll be able to drop off used books at any of the participating Bristol stores: ie Storysmith Books, Bookhaus, Gloucester Road Books, Heron Books, Max Minerva’s, Stanfords and The Small City Bookshop.

It’s our pleasure to be a drop-off point for this year’s Children’s Book Project – it’s a vital campaign and an easy one to support, and we look forward to seeing our dump bin gradually swell with donations, safe in the knowledge they’ll be going to people who really need them”, say Dan and Emily Ross at Storysmith. For more www.childrensbookproject.co.uk

Civic

WILD IN THE CITY

Artists Sylvia Rimat and Charlie Clark will be turning Broadmead into a wild ower and woodland area once again, with the return of Broad Meadow: the free installation and sound experience that wowed and refreshed weary shoppers last summer. It will launch on Saturday 7 June, and this time it will be left to grow over the next three years.

Visitors are invited to imagine the natural landscape that once ourished in Broadmead; as they sit among the owers they can listen to an audio piece designed to explore our deeprooted connection with the plant world. For more www.broadmeadow.art

Public art

SPACE INVADER

As you may have noticed, Bristol is all about collaborations (see also p 32); here’s the latest.

Altering its appearance with the changing wind direction and weather, Luke Jerram’s new piece Negotiated Space will be installed outside the RWA from 10 June. Creating connections between civic spaces, the artwork will continue onto neighbouring buildings including Bristol Uni’s Beacon House.

Made of 1000m of 20cm wide magenta ribbon, the site-responsive piece will take over the exterior of the Grade II* RWA before disappearing through a window.

“RWA were looking for an art intervention which would help celebrate and advertise their latest exhibition”, said Luke. “This artwork

is both a simple sculptural intervention of the space outside the museum, and an experimental three-dimensional drawing. It’s been great fun developing this new experimental project with the team. We’re literally taking a line for a walk.”

”Connecting with Luke celebrates great art from a fantastic Bristol artist and Academician”, said Ren Renwick, director of RWA. “This is a joyful way to do that, while also shining a light on the RWA and its exhibitions running throughout the summer” – a programme which includes Soft Power: Lives Told Through Textile Art, which uses cloth as a form of portraiture.

Hopefully surprised drivers negotiating the roundabout at the bottom of Whiteladies won’t be too distracted. For more www.rwa.org.uk

BS8, MATE

Today, Bristol positively heaves with cool little neighbourhoods stuffed with indie businesses. But before gentrification crept across the city, Clifton really was the OG des res – and despite hot competition, it’s still the fairest of them all

Words by Deri Robins

Photos by @joncraig_photos and www. benrobinsphoto.com

LEFT: One of the most auspicious entrances to Clifton is via the arch connecting Victoria Square to Boyce’s Avenue

THISPAGE: Rivalling this approach, of course, is the walk across the Suspension Bridge – and the best view of that is from this terrace, at the Avon Gorge Hotel

There are thousands, probably millions, of Ian Andersons in this world, but Bristol Life knows only two. Funnily enough, both are folk musicians. One is the frontman of Jethro Tull; the other claims to have invented Clifton Village, over half a century ago.

Back in the ’60s, Ian-who-wasn’t-in-theTull was a regular player at the Troubadour Club on Waterloo Street. Clifton was a bit of a folk mecca back then, and many of the big names on the scene would regularly lug their fiddles, whistles and bodruns to the club.

In 1970, Ian and the Troubadour’s manager John Turner were breakfasting at Splinters coffee house on egent Street while drafting a new poster for the club. Ian came up with the idea that they should invoke the ambience of New York’s Greenwich Village by referring to the area as ‘Clifton Village’.

The club took to using the address on its newsletters, and within a decade the name had widely caught on. It became the local estate agents’ go-to parlance to evoke desirability, and was increasingly adopted by all the fashionable businesses in the area.

Fast-forward to 2025, and few would argue that Clifton Village is still Bristol’s

most swellegant, elegant suburb, punching way above its weight with a temptingly wide range of shops, cafés, bars and restaurants. However, any outsider who assumes it’s all about boutiques, cafés and delis is only halfright; Clifton possesses these in abundance, but it also has the kind of essential shops and services that many full-sized towns would kill for. There’s a butchers, many bakers, maybe not a candlestick maker, but when did you last need one of those? ou can find a good range of ready-made ones at Pod anyway, and if you need the right decor to set them off then Alice at Bracey Interiors will happily sort you out. Topographically, of course, it’s literally Gorgeous. It’s hard to think of a more auspicious approach than walking across the Suspension Bridge (though maybe not if you’re acrophobic), admiring the seductive curve of Sion Hill with its seaside-striped awnings, then skirting genteel Christchurch Green and its wide Georgian terraces.

“Topographically, of course, Clifton is literally Gorgeous”

DID YOU KNOW?

“Clifton has a rich history, but one of my favourite little-known facts is that there are tunnels underneath the area that were once used by smugglers. It adds an air of mystery to an already fascinating place” – Lucy Shaw

“In the early 1900s electric trams ran right down Queen’s Road. If you stand outside Starlings, you’re standing where passengers once boarded to ride through Clifton and into the city centre” – Ed Starling

“In 2020 our office at 15 The Mall was used for the Agatha Christie BBC adaptation, The Pale Horse. West Mall doubled for King’s Road in the 1960s. In Clifton you could be close to the cast of a well-known drama or TV show at any moment” – Grant McCall

“Maze is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year – quite a milestone! We started in a small shop on Princess Victoria Street and gradually grew into the larger space on The Mall. Maze has become part of the fabric of Clifton, and that sense of continuity feels like a real measure of success” – Hannah Holloway

CLOCKWISEFROMTOPLEFT: Clifton hotspots – Boyce’s Avenue; Clifton Arcade (currently up for sale!); the ever-rummageable Focus on the Past on Waterloo Street; yet more Waterloo Street; the new branch of Burra is already a firm favourite with our locals

Squares wrap themselves around inviting little parks, picturesque back streets reveal quirky shops and bars, while the spectacular Royal York Terrace and Paragon mark the beginning of the boundary to Cliftonwood. All is pervaded by a sleepy, chilled vibe, and an unmistakeable air of privilege.

But that’s just our outsider take – kids enviously pressing their noses against the toyshop window. Now let’s find out what the locals feel makes the Village so special. Naturally, few are better positioned to comment than Lucy Shaw of Clifton BID. “Clifton has a unique charm that blends history, beauty and a strong sense of community”, she says. “It’s not just a place – it’s a feeling. The cobbled streets, independent shops, and friendly faces give it the atmosphere of a village, even though it’s in the heart of a city.”

Meera Pandya, the owner of children’s boutique MojaKid, has lived in the area since she was five. What makes it special to me is

EATING AND DRINKING

So many global flavours, so many indie cafés, bars and restaurants –so where do the locals go?

(None of them mentioned Gail’s...)

“Mercy Mercy Mercy – I love how light and dynamic it feels, it reminds me of some of my favourite cities in the world” – Meera Pandya

“Recent bakeries and coffee spots such as Burra have brought something fresh to the area while staying true to Clifton’s laidback vibe. There’s a simplicity to what they do — great coffee, warm service — and it feels like it fits seamlessly into the community. Clifton tends to respond well to places that don’t try too hard, and they’ve nailed that balance. And the Lido — a rare thing, a place where time slows down” – Hannah Holloway

“My two-year-old particularly enjoys the ice-cream in Cino’s, so there is usually a strong pull that way at present – it’s also dog-friendly” – Grant McCall

“Spicer+Cole for their vibrant salad boxes. Their new refurb is looking great. We’re also very excited that Burra has opened up just down the road; we’re regular customers now” – Clare Chandler

“Catley’s have dangerously good pastries; a lovely independent with loads of heart” – Nattie Schoos

“The Clifton Sausage serves the best sausage and mash I’ve ever had. They offer gourmet sausages from locally sourced meats but also have veggie options. The wine is great and you can bring your dog” – Audrey Soubeiran

“Mercy Mercy Mercy, Foliage Café and 1 York Place” – Jane Jago

“The Primrose Café is a classic for good reason– its charm is timeless. And The Ivy Clifton Brasserie always feels like a treat. There’s also something so comforting about grabbing a coffee from Spicer+Cole and watching the world go by. And it’s been great to see a few more modern, independent places arriving bringing in a fresh but still very Clifton vibe” – Lucy Shaw

“I love the hidden alleyways and secret gardens that open up into pockets of peace and greenery”

ABOVE: Chilling in The Mall Gardens, possibly after (BELOW) indulging in shopping heaven along The Mall

DID YOU KNOW…

“Root & Ember used to be a grocery shop back in the late 1940. It’s hardly changed at all, although hopefully it’s now a bit more luxurious!” – Jane Jago

“A couple of years ago Kibou teamed up with Maker’s Mark bourbon to create the world’s largest whisky Old Fashioned — 250 litres of it! As far as I know, it still holds the Guinness World Record“ –Nattie Schoos

“During World War II, Clifton College buildings were handed over to the US First Army as their HQ. The College’s boarding houses in the large Victorian residences nearby became billets for the troops, and its nearby Beggars Bush Sports Ground became an airstrip. The Upper School library became the nervecentre where the D-Day landings were planned; the very table that was used by the generals is still in the College, and can be found in the Newbolt Room” –Olivia Sayers

TOPLEFT: That’s Japanese for ‘Kibou’, which means ‘hope’or ‘wish’; ABOVE: Chapter & Holmes coffee van has become quite the institution; BELOW: Apropos, Reg the Veg is one of the most iconic Clifton businesses of all

how people who have been around since the 1970s are still running their businesses and lives here, so no matter how much Clifton changes and new people come and go there’s that familiarity”, she says.

“There’s a lived-in charm to Clifton”, agrees Hannah Holloway of Maze Clothing. “It’s steeped in history and well looked-after. You walk through the streets and it has a rhythm to it – familiar faces, cafés where you can sit and think, the Downs breathing just a little more calmly than the rest of the city. And of course, there’s the Suspension Bridge. You can’t beat that view – a reminder of what can be done when good design meets purpose.”

Like Lucy Shaw, Ed Starling of restaurant Starlings on Queen’s Road says he loves the feeling of being in a village within a big city. “It’s the only place I’ve ever been where I’ve felt that whether you were one or a hundred years old, it’s the perfect place to live.”

“Clifton’s got this amazing little bubble vibe – like living in a village inside a city”, agrees Nattie Schoos, general manager at Kibou on King Street. “It’s full of character, with loads of brilliant independents, and a real sense of community. People actually know each other here, and that’s something I didn’t realise I was missing until I arrived.”

For Clare Chandler at Clifton Rocks, it’s all about “The small, cobbled streets with

beautiful Georgian and Victorian buildings; now occupied with unique independent shops. And with local communal gardens and the Downs on our doorstep there are many spots for a lunchbreak in the sunshine.”

Olivia Sayers of Clifton College praises the Village’s reassuring vibe. “Our pupils are extremely lucky to be situated so close to its vibrant community. It is such a welcoming, safe hub of activity and commerce, where they can be free to gain independence and explore one of Bristol’s top spots.”

Finally, Alison at Focus on the Past feels that Clifton Village is special “Because of the range of multicultural independent businesses in such a beautiful setting”.

IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT THE BRIDGE

“The view from the Suspension Bridge on a crisp morning takes some beating, but I also love the little hidden alleyways and secret gardens that suddenly open up into pockets of peace and greenery”, says Lucy Shaw. “Those unexpected moments of calm are what I treasure most.”

Meera Pandya loves not just the grand, architecture, but the original features in the stonework – “The more you look, the more you see the detail and it’s so beautiful”.

“There’s something about the light along West Mall and Caledonia Place, just before sunset”, says Hannah Holloway. “It illuminates our store and hits the terraces in a way that makes the whole street glow.

DO I EVER HAVE TO LEAVE THE VILLAGE?

No. We mean, you can, of course –unlike The Village in 1960s TV show The Prisoner, there’s no big white ball named Rover trying to stop you. But when you have everything you need on your doorstep, and the living is so easy, why venture further afield? And it’s not all about the boujie: in addition to all the restaurants, cafés and fashion/gift shops, there’s a butchers and many bakers, cobblers, library, fish and chippy, restaurants and cafés covering practically every cuisine, paint and interiors shop, a chemist, supermarket, health food store, bookshop, a legendary grocers, toy shop, dry cleaners, highly rummageable antique and charity shops and a shop with jaw-droppingly famous art– just for starters.

“The more you look, the more you see the detail in the stone, and it’s beautiful”

ABOVE: The pedestrianisation of Boyce’s Avenue has created the ultimate café quarter BELOW: Sun is in the sky, oh why oh why would you wanna be anywhere else?

Explore the collection:

moja.kid

Children’s Lifestyle Boutique

Curated collections inspired by world travel and timeless style. Bringing individuality for little wanderers with style.

MOJA: Shop 5 The Clifton Arcade, Boyces Avenue, Clifton Village, Bristol, BS8 4AA

That and the mix of architecture – slightly imperfect, slightly weathered, but full of charm. Like a well-loved piece of clothing.”

Grant of AMD tells us he spends a lot of time walking his toy poodle Paddington around the Village. “I am constantly surprised by the number of new views or pieces of architecture that catch the eye. The view from the Observatory has to be the perfect postcard for Clifton.”

Candy Jiang of OneCatBoutique admires “Clifton Arcade’s stunning glass roof and Victorian design – the perfect backdrop for our vintage clothing boutique”, while Audrey Soubeiran of Timber Windows loves the vast green space of The Downs: “Funfairs, festivals and yoga classes will all take part there. As long as there’s a ray of sun, you can be sure that any park will be full of people enjoying Clifton’s scenery.”

CAN YOU IMPROVE ON PERFECTION?

Could anything make the area even better? Meera Pandya says she’d like to see even more indies. ifferent little independent businesses selling a variety of whatever they love; passionate people with entrepreneurial spirit who take risks.”

Both Clare Chandler and Hannah Holloway mention the need for better public transport. Clifton can feel a bit cut-off if you don’t drive, which goes against the spirit of a place that invites walking, wandering, and

“Clifton is not just a place; it’s a feeling”

ABOVE: There are views, and then there’s this view; BELOW: The top of Princess Victoria Street has now been pedestrianised: some love it, some don’t; OPPOSITEPAGE: The cool oasis of Birdcage Walk

CARS OR NO CARS?

Boyce’s Avenue and the top of Princess Victoria Street are now pedestrianised. So, people – for, or against?

“If it’s done with thought, I’m for it. Walking through a place should feel relaxing, not like you’re dodging traffic. But it’s got to be for the people who live and work here. It’s a fine balance — making the space better for pedestrians without losing the practicality people still need” – Hannah Holloway

“I’m totally for it. I think it makes the area more welcoming, safer, and just nicer to stroll around. It helps create that laidback village feel, where you can take your time, bump into friends, and really enjoy your surroundings. Great for families, for businesses, and for the general vibe of the place” – Nattie Schoos

“Absolutely for! It enhances the community atmosphere, supports local businesses, and allows everyone to appreciate Clifton’s beauty at a leisurely pace. However, more consideration needs to be given to those who are disabled and have mobility issues”

– Candy Jiang

“While some argue that fewer cars mean a safer and more comfortable atmosphere, many business owners report a sharp drop in sales, which they attribute to consumers who used to depend on easy parking being less able to access the area” – Audrey Soubeiran

“Business can be threatened by loss of parking due to pedestrianisation and an emphasis on café culture at the expense of other businesses.” – Alison Roylance

TOP SHOPS

Where do our locals pop for a bit of retail therapy?

“Otomi for a feel of Mexico, with its beautiful ingredients and sauces. Sunshine Sketch Art has the happiest and most unique art supplies and I can spend hours in there. And my own MojaKid! I feel like I’m walking into a little Ibiza boutique every morning. I love the window of Indira Rose – they always display things so beautifully with minimalist elegance and such a cool factor” – Meera Pandya

“Reg the Veg – a reminder that proper, oldschool, no-fuss shops still matter” –Hannah Holloway

“Root & Ember; and my dogs’ favourite –Doghouse:” – Ed Starling

“Shy Mimosa is a must-visit. Maria’s boutique perfumery is the place to get your signature scent” – Clare Chandler

“Kumomo, a little Japanese store packed with quirky, authentic Japanese goodies: snacks, drinks, fun bits and bobs” –Nattie Schoos

“Doghouse sells beautifully made dog accessories and doggy treats; they even do doggy ice cream. I’ve loved seeing sustainable and ethically focused businesses pop up. Sunshine Sketch Art opened in the Arcade last year, selling the quirkiest cards and a wide collection of art supplies” – Candy Jiang

community connection , says annah. A few more frequent, reliable links in and out especially for those coming from other parts of the city, would open it up in the right way .

If I had to wish for one thing, I’d say maybe a few more community-led events throughout the year , says Nattie Schoos. Something that brings everyone together, through food, music, arts, whatever. It’s such a connected neighbourhood already, so building on that would ust take it to the ne t level.

Candy Jiang agrees that it would be wonderful to create even more events highlighting local independent businesses. The small businesses in Clifton need everyone’s support to sustain and thrive. ne thing seems for sure though; with

“Reg the Veg offers a reminder that proper, old-school no-fuss shops still matter”

the area already filled with listed Georgian terraces and Victorian shop fronts, no ugly ill- udged development is ever likely to mar Clifton’s unique beauty – or, as it would seem from the response from our friendly locals, its fierce independence and the pride they take in the city’s only o cial Village.

TOPLEFTANDBELOW: Freddie Jago runs Root & Ember with mum Jane; LEFTBELOW: The endless temptation of Maze

THE ARTS

SNAPSHOTS OF BRISTOL’S CULTURAL LIFE

Henry Cyril Paget was one of the world’s wealthiest men, until he lost it all by being too damn fabulous.

The 5th Marquis of Anglesey blew his family’s colossal fortune on diamond frocks, lilac-dyed poodles and putting on simply amazing plays – to which nobody came – causing a very dwardian scandal. is ame burned brightly, brie y and e tremely cross-dressingly until he died aged ust 2 , after which his outraged family destroyed every record of him in e istence. Now Henry’s back to tell his regrettable cautionary tale, with nothing to his name but savage wit, banging belters and a metric tonne of sparkle.

He’s having a bit of a moment, and you’re all invited to his fabulous party.

How to Win Against History plays Bristol Old Vic 19 June-12 July; www bristololdvic.org.uk

W AT’S

ON 6-27 June 2025

The mother of all music fests: last chance for Glastonbury until 2027

EXHIBITIONS

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 At ; 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 British history. At Arnolfini; arnol ni org u

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 Scan AB ro ects. ieced together from thousands of daily 3D timelapse scans, the unique portrait of

the British 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 August

SOFT POWER

ives told through te tile art, highlighting how cloth can play a unique role in telling our stories. At WA, rwa.org.uk

Until 7 September

DONALD LOCKE: RESISTANT FORMS

The first ma or survey e hibition of the Guyanese artist, featuring ceramics evoking human and natural forms, mi ed-media sculptures and more. Spike Island, spikeisland.org.uk

Until 28 September

DANA AWARTANI

Dana’s work is steeped in historical

and visual references from Islamic and Arab art-making traditions, honouring traditional craft making techniques and encouraging audiences to consider passages of time. At Arnolfini; arnol ni org u

SAHARA LONGE

ollowing her 2024 e hibition

Sugar, where nudes were intimately enclosed within Symbolist imagery, Sahara returns to the clothed figure, capturing eeting moments and the anonymity of the city against richly coloured backdrops. Arnolfini; arnol ni org u

Until 12 October

GENDER STORIES

Challenging rigid definitions and binary narratives, this thoughtprovoking e hibition e amines the uid, multifaceted world of gender across cultures, eras and personal e periences. At Bristol useum, bristolmuseums.org.uk

13-18 June

BRISTOL ART CIRCLE

A curated selection of work by 14 professional artists, spanning painting, printmaking, sculpture and mi ed media, accompanied by informal artist talks. At Centrespace, centrespace.org.uk

SHOWS

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; at BOV; bristololdvic.org.uk

CUTTING OUT

Using the cutting out of paper dolls as a collective act of healing and resistance, Viv Gordon tells a lyrical tale of surviving abuse. Blurring the edges between artist and audience, activism and story told through music and performance, the show delivers its message with honesty, humour and generosity. TFT, tobaccofactorytheatres.com

Until 21 June WAR HORSE

The celebrated 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 thing. atgtickets.com

THE LADYBOYS OF BANGKOK

From Hollywood to Bollywood,

the West End to Las Vegas, these diamanté-dripping divas perform and create all your favourite and biggest hits from the world’s most famous pop icons;. Back in their Sabai Pavilion on Durdham Downs, ladyboysofbangkok.co.uk

7 June

SOLVE-ALONG-A

MURDER SHE WROTE

The cult hit returns to Bristol with an interactive screening of the classic Murder, She Wrote episode Paint Me a Murderer . Jessica visits an artist’s island hideaway, but soon there’s a murder that only she (or you) can solve... Redgrave, redgravetheatre.com

12-14 June

BALM IN GILEAD

In a shabby, barebones, all-night café-diner, the city’s otsam and jetsam forlornly wash in. Together, they might have a shot at escaping the circular, squalid turmoil of life at the edge, but can they do so before it engulfs them? Lanford Wilson’s groundbreaking play starkly illuminates a bleak and terrifying world of young exiles and outcasts in New York’s upper Broadway, while challenging our very expectations of the rules and form of theatre. At TFT, tobaccofactorytheatres.com

18-21 June

50 WAYS TO KILL A SLUG

In a pristinely manicured garden, amid the bucolic borders, lurk a pair of slimeballs who just want to chomp, chew, spit, live, lust and die freely; basically, these slugs just wanna have fun. Joana Nastari and Dre Spistoe’s love for the slug as ultimate underdog has led to this ecstatic exploration of radical rest, toxic productivity and belonging. It’s a non-verbal show, presumably because slugs don’t talk human. Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

19 June-5 July

DELAY

Lin, a solo astronaut, speeds towards a distant planet. His only human contact is an exchange of voice messages with his lover Silas back on Earth. But due to the laws of relativity, Silas is ageing so much faster than Lin; while disasters befall the spacecraft; planet Earth falls apart. A queer sci-fi hearbrteaker at BOV, bristololdvic.org.uk

19 June-12 July

DIANA: THE UNTOLD AND UNTRUE STORY

Combining drag, multimedia, audience interaction, puppetry

and a lot of queer joy, this unique celebration of the People’s Princess has won multiple awards and sold out venues across the UK. A celebration of Di that’s as hilarious as it’s tasteless. TFT, tobaccofactorytheatres.com

19 June-2 August

HENRY V

Bristol’s Insane Root bring an all-female/non-binary version of Shakespeare’s history, specifically created for the venue: the haunting, bombed-out mediaeval ruins of Temple Church. With original songs, in a visceral production designed to linger in your imaginations for years to come; insaneroot.org.uk

26 June-9 August

MOULIN ROUGE

Baz uhrmann’s film brought to the stage in a new musical mash-up extravaganza; expect eye-popping excess, glitz, grandeur and glory and anachronistic pop songs at the Hippodrome, atgtickets.com

COMEDY

Ongoing

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

6 June

CHRIS TURNER: CHILDISH Freestyle raps and quick wit in this high-energy musical comedy from one quarter of Racing Minds, Chris Turner, at The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

7 June

KATHERINE RYAN: BATTLEAXE

Katherine is entering and embracing her battleaxe era. She may be a happily married mother but she still isn’t taking any prisoners; blokes should probably avoid the front few rows of Beacon, then; bristolbeacon.org

INSTANT WIT

LOLs from the OG improvisers at their fave Bristol venue, Alma Tavern, almatavernandtheatre.co.uk

12-14 June

ROCKY STALLONE

Rocky’s a small-man kind of guy with big-time time ambition who yearns to be a hero. He has one dream left, one last chance to be the champ. Come and grab ringside

TOP: Alan Davies (with considerably greyer hair) is at Comedy Fest

MIDDLE: Danny, Dougie, Tom and Harry, all grown-up: McFly at Forest Live

BOTTOM: Your eyes do not deceive you; that’s actual Bill Murray, with New Worlds

He’s definitely no angel: Ricky back at the Beacon seats at The Wardrobe as Sam Dugmore, creator of the multiaward-winning Manbo, presents a new clown comedy that e plores what it truly means to ‘be a man’. thewardrobetheatre.com

9 June

KERRY GODLIMAN: BANDWIDTH

While parenting teenagers, bogged down with knicker admin and considering dealing HRT on the black market, Kerry’s lost her mum bag but can’t remember what was in it as she’s outsourced her memory to her phone. The life of a middleaged woman who hasn’t got the bandwidth for any of this. BOV; ristolold ic org u

10 June

TIM KEY: LA BABY!

Tim’s embarked on a low-grade book tour to celebrate his latest anthology of poems. He’ll ‘be in conversation’ with whoever agrees to interview him. He will, inevitably, read some poems out. The book will be there to buy, he’ll sign, whatever. BOV; ristolold ic org u

14 June

MORGAN JAY: THE GOOFY GUY TOUR

The LA stand-up brings his infectious blend of musical comedy and off-the-cuff improvisation to Beacon; bristolbeacon.org

16 June

RORY BREMNER

For four decades, Rory has been the voice of our times – quite literally. Now, in this intimate new show, the master mimic and satirist combines stand-up with candid conversation, accompanied by a rotating cast of special guests. St George’s; stgeorgesbristol.co.uk

16-17 June

RICKY GERVAIS: MORTALITY

Whether you regard him as a fearless advocate of free-spech or just cruel and offensive, he’s as popular as ever and both Beacon shows sold out in a trice; we’re afraid it’s returns only now, for the ‘most personal and confessional show’ he’s ever done – but ‘not in an Edinburgh Fringe way’. bristolbeacon.org

25 June

RHYS DARBY: THE LEGEND RETURNS

In a world full of AI and robot tech, can a simple dad with slightly tight jeans stay relevant? The Kiwi comic is here to prove that a touch of very human silliness is more important than ever; perhaps his unique human skills, once thought of as absurd, might just be useful after all? Beacon. bristolbeacon.org

BRITS ABROAD: BANNED

After being banned from going anywhere abroad, yes even

Benidorm, British tourists are forced to go on holiday to the only place that’ll have them: Hell. At least it’ll be hot. Comedy, physical theatre, live music and biting satire combine for a rowdy, rip-roaring holiday you won’t forget, from NotThatButThat; at Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

MUSIC

Ongoing

BRISTOL BEACON

Daily gigs, encompassing orchestral, folk, world, indie, jazz 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

8 June

SOPHIE ELLIS-BEXTOR

A night filled with Sophie’s greatest hits and tracks from her latest album; at Bristol Beacon; bristolbeacon.org

BRISTOL REGGAE ORCHESTRA

The show’s called Ballots or Bullets - the Truths of Malcolm X, offering a thought-provoking, ultimately hopeful journey through Malcolm’s words and asking how they resonate through the era of Black Lives Matter and Bristol’s reckoning with its past. Music includes songs by Jimmy Cliff and Bob arley as well as some original compositions from the orchestra. St George’s; stgeorgesbristol.co.uk

9 June

CASSANDRA JENKINS

The native New Yorker brings her singular voice and astute observations via her blend of folk and lush ambient pop, to Beacon; bristolbeacon.org

11 June

BILLY OCEAN

It’s a ‘very best of’ tour, so you can confidently e pect to hear the likes of Caribbean Queen, When the Going Gets Tough, and Get Outta My Dreams at Beacon; bristolbeacon.org

SAM KELLY

The Radio 2 Folk Award winning musician, singer, songwriter, and producer from Norfolk headlines Thekla as part of his Dreamers Dawn single launch tour; theklabristol.co.uk

15 June

NICK MULVEY

The English musician, composer and producer pushes boundaries

in songwriting and sound, music both traditional and e perimental, acoustic and electronic; he’s at Trinity, trinitybristol.org.uk

19 June

THE DEVIL MAKES THREE

Occupying the space where the grit of folk meets the soul of blues and the rebellious spirit of punk, the genre-defying trio has carved out a place in the American roots scene; their music doesn’t just follow the American storytelling tradition, it redefines it. Trinity, trinitybristol.org.uk

24 June

NEW WORLDS

The quartet including world-class cellist Jan Voglerand Bill Murray – yes, that Bill Murray – brings its evocative showcase of the core of American values in both music and literature to Beacon. We’re talking Twain and Hemingway, Gershwin and Foster, etc. bristolbeacon.org

26 June

LADY MAISERY + JIMMY ALDRIDGE & SID GOLDSMITH: WAKEFIRE: A MIDSUMMER CELEBRATION

With more folk songs collected about the month of May than any other time apart from Christmas, the charismatic supergroup embark on a journey to mark the season in song. St George’s; stgeorgesbristol.co.uk

FESTIVALS

Ongoing

BRISTOL FILM FESTIVAL

The year-round fest of crowdpleasers continues; the Clifton Summer Screenings are back 4-7 July. ristol lmfesti al com

Until

8 June

BRISTOL COMEDY GARDEN

Back at Queen Square with top names from the circuit; it’s just like i e at the pollo, but in a tent. Taking the mic are Ed Gable, Chloe Petts, Mike Wozniak, Phil Wang, Alan Davies, Michael Odewale, Sarah Pascoe and loads more, including Bristol’s Mark Watson and Jayde Adams. bristolcomedygarden.com

Until 14 June

CLIFTON FESTIVAL

Bristol’s classical music festival; e pect big hitters such as Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and music by Schubert and Brahms, alongside performances from some of the country’s brightest rising classical stars. bristolbeacon.org

7-15 June FESTIVAL OF NATURE

The UK’s biggest free celebration of the natural world, encouraging us to take positive action to help local wildlife. This year’s theme is Water, an element that’s always been pretty important to Bristol. – look out for a living wetland being created on Harbourside. The culmination, as ever, is the Wild Weekend (14-15 June): two outdoor days of free nature activities. bnhc.org.uk

6-8 June

VOLKFEST

Good tunes, good rides, good times. If it has even the most tenuous link to a Volkswagen, expect it to be celebrated at Birches Farm, Long Ashton. This year’s theme is ‘Viva Mexicana’. bristolvolksfest.co.uk

13-14 June

CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL

It’s all hands to the pumps once again at loyd’s, with the finest beers known to humanity, from both near and far away. Eatchu, Meltdown Cheeseburgers and The Jolly Hog are on hand to mop up the beer. More p 48. bristolcraftbeerfestival.co.uk

14 June AFROFEST

Showcasing the best of AfroCaribbean Culture through music, art and dance; plenty of family stuff, too, at Trinity; trinitybristol.org.uk

17-22 June

FOREST LIVE

Open-air gigs at Westonbirt, with an eclectic line-up playing against the

6,000-acre forest backdrop. Snow Patrol, Sting, The Script, Elbow, McFly, and Paul Heaton are up this year. Income from ticket sales helps look after the nation’s forests, so it’s a win-win. forestryengland.uk

22 June

WINDRUSH CELEBRATION DAY

In a day filled with music, stories, art and community, soul-stirring folk songs and personal narratives bring to life the resilience, creativity, and profound impact of Caribbean communities in Britain. Hosted by Annette Fagon and Dr Edson Burton; Trinity, trinitybristol.org.uk

25-29 June

BRISTOL SOUNDS

There’s of a nostalgic feel to this year’s line-up, from Supergrass, celebrating its 30th anniversary, to Kaiser Chiefs, marking its 20th. There’s Texas, an all-dayer with The Fratellis, and while Olly Murs still looks comparatively babyfaced even he’s been around a few blocks since coming in as runner-up in The X-Factor in 2009. Still, at least he’s not in panto. Yet. bristolsounds.co.uk

GLASTONBURY

As per, anyone who’s anyone will be playing Worthy Farm; Neil Young, Charli XCX, The 1975s, Olivia odrigo, oyle Carner, Biffy Clyro and The Prodigy headline, while this year’s Sunday legend slot is the astonishingly active octagonarian Rod Stewart, still wearing it well. (He’s actually only one year older than Neil Young). glastonburyfestivals.co.uk n

CULTURE CLUB with Jyuddah Jaymes

Jyuddah graduated from Bristol Old Vic Theatre School in 2018 with a BA in professional acting. We saw him in Choir Boy at Bristol Old Vic in 2023, and this month he’s in the Weston Studio starring as Lin in Delay – ‘A queer sci-fi heartbreaker’, by Tim X Atack

A film I could watch over and over again Soul (Pixar)

A painting that means something to me Any painting my mum has made

Best TV show ever Atlanta or Breaking Bad (in that order)

My favourite binge watch Always Sunny in Philadelphia/ Peep Show

The book that changed my life You can’t keep a Good Woman Down by Alice Walker

The book I could happily re-read

The Things You Can Only See When You Slow Down by Haemin Sunim

My desert island disc If you meant to say dish, then egg-fried rice. If disc, then Mr Morale and the Big Steppers by Kendrick Lamar

My dance floor/karaoke banger Electric Relaxation y A Tribe Called Quest

Podcast pick On Being by Krista Tippett

Best app Mubi

Guilty pleasure Granola instead of a normal meal

Delay plays The Weston Studio at Bristol Old Vic between 19 June-5 July www.bristololdvic.org.uk

Supergrass celebrates 30 years in the biz we call show at Bristol Sounds

Photojournalist Martin Parr works in a candid, y-on-the-wall documentary style; his pictures are typically saturated with colour. It’s hard to think, then, of anyone better positioned to capture the vibrant world of Bristol ride –a festival artin’s attended off and on since 201 .

This month he’s collaborated both with ride and Bristol useums to create a free e hibition of photos taken at a number of marches over the past eight years. ride is always one of the best days for shooting in the Bristol calendar , he says. I like shooting when people are assembling for the march, and it also gives me a chance to shoot some great homemade placards and to isolate these, to give them more presence.

It’s fantastic how ride marches are now en oyed by so many people. This would not have been the case when these marches started, as the acceptance of the gay trans sections of society is now so much greater.

The free e hibition has ust opened, in good time for Bristol ride fortnight between 28 June-1 July. ride ay, with the march and the big old party on the owns will be held on 12 July. n

Bristol Pride x Martin Parr runs until 23 November at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery; www.bristolmuseums.org.uk

Having attended Bristol Pride since 2017, Martin’s photos reveal a fascinating insight into the busy, colourful and joyful marches the festival puts on every year

INDIE ROCK’N’ROLL

Kaiser Chiefs are bringing back-to-back anthems to Bristol Sounds this month – and as bass player SIMON RIX tells us, if they aren’t the highlight of this year’s festival it won’t be from lack of trying…

Words by Ursula Cole

Returning to Lloyd’s Amphitheatre between 25-29 June, this year’s Bristol Sounds line-up promises a bunch of unforgettable performances –including the return of indie-rock giants Kaiser Chiefs, who are currently celebrating the 20th anniversary of debut album Employment, A decade after their last Sounds appearance, the guys are set to headline on Thursday 26 June. We had a chat with bassist Simon Rix, who talks about the boys’ 22-year journey, their love for Bristol and what we can expect from their return to Lloyd’s Amphitheatre.

Simon, how are you feeling about joining the line-up at Sounds this year?

There’s something special about playing in the South West, and in Bristol, where we’ve played a few times now, audiences seem so receptive to the full show. It never feels like people are just waiting to hear the tracks they know, but are open to new ones too, which always make for such a great atmosphere.

It’s been 10 years since you played Bristol Sounds – what kept you?! And what do you remember of the 2015 show?

The space strikes a real balance between having a large outdoor capacity yet feeling… not quite intimate, but very connected to the audience. I remember that feeling well from the last time.

How does playing festivals compare to tour performances?

We’re extremely competitive when it comes to festivals! We always want to be everyone’s favourite band of the week. So we’ll work extremely hard

to put on the best possible show we can, and being part of festivals really drives that. After 22 years we’re still trying to win over new audiences and impress new fans. It’s also great that with festivals such as Bristol Sounds, we get to meet and be supported by local bands, which is a nice touch.

Any surprises you can tease about the show?

We’ve really tried to capture the amazing feeling that was around in the music scene in 2005, not just with our set but also with the staging of the show.

Employment resonated with a lot of people of such a diverse age range – there are some who will have seen the songs performed back when the album was first released, and those who will be e periencing it live for the first time with this tour. We’re going to play the full album, and then the rest of the set will be surprises for the audience… I don’t want to give too much away, so people will have something to look forward to.

“It never feels like the Bristol audience is just waiting to hear the tracks they know, they’re open to new ones too”

Bristol is a real champion of emerging artists. What advice would you give to anyone looking to take the next step? It seems like young artists now need to have more strings to their bow, with streaming, podcasting, social media and so on. It feels less like you can just release a song and hope it breaks through now. There’s always going to be an element of it being a lottery, but I still think if you work hard, you write good songs and you keep at it without getting too dispirited by rejection, then you can get to where you want to be.

How has Kaiser Chiefs evolved over the past 22 years?

We’ve always tried to keep up with the trends and be forward-thinking. We were making skits for YouTube back in the day, and I think had TikTok been around when we started out, we’d have definitely been all over that. 22 years is a long time, and we’ve seen our music evolve, and we’ve not been afraid to try new things. We don’t tend to do a lot of looking back and re ecting on our time as a band, so touring Employment is a great moment for us to stop and celebrate how far we’ve come while celebrating what that album did for us.

Do you have an all-time favourite Kaiser Chiefs song?

I’d have to say Caroline, Yes at the moment. We’re loving rehearsing the album tracks from Employment and I think that one will be such a nice moment to sing with the crowds.

What’s next for the band?

For now, we’re just living in the moment, enjoying being back rehearsing and getting ready for this really celebratory moment that summer will bring. It’s nice to be touring and not making a record; it really takes the pressure off, and lets us just enjoy what we’ve done and how far we’ve come in 20 years.

And maybe we’ll consider making a TikTok… n

Catch Kaiser Chiefs at Bristol Sounds on Thursday 26 June at Bristol Amphitheatre. Tickets available at www.bristolsounds.co.uk

That’s Simon, far right; and yes, he does look a lot like frontman Ricky Wilson

DANCE AWAY THE HEARTACHE

Bristol life. It’s a balancing act

Words and pics by Colin Moody

W1

BRISTOL HEROES

ith the help of our latest batch of Heroes, we set out to show that life is a dance; a balanced movement.

“No no no, you wait, you just watch this move…”

And that’s Bristol. One minute it’s just your run-of-the-mill roadand-pavement combo, right? And then these two start a dance off. Why?

If you are asking questions, you are not ready for Living Life Like a Ballet Hero.

I’m hearing a lot of despondency out there, along with other words like ‘tariffs’ and ‘recession’, but I’m also hearing words like ‘dance-off’. Too cool a word to fathom.

2

So, if you’re gonna live your life like a ballet, you may need training. To get your balance right, consider balancing a third of a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc on your head at a festival.

Once you have that core strength, from this you can advance to a higher level.

3

An ancient wise person once said that we should dance like no one is watching. The Bristol take on this is more sort of just “Dance, because that’s all we need”.

I’ve travelled the world a bit, and I’ve seen people break into dance on beaches at sunset, and in back streets in Barcelona with music from a window.

Bristol is one of those cities where if the dub leaves the club, so does that infecting tone, reaching the passers-by, and it ips into spontaneous dance.

While some economists mark the cost of a cup of tea on a high street as markers towards gentrification, I have a different scale. I count the number of free-moving bodies on a street in a given year, and divide it by 52, gives you your WDFNR. Weekly Dance for No Reason. Points score double if there isn’t any actual music playing; it could just be a beat coming off a tra c light pedestrian crossing.

Photo: a RWA art show that had a vibe.

4The world is upside down at the moment. Literally, so here’s hoping they don’t put this image the wrong way, if you know what I mean. Funny thing about dancing and movement generally is that it frees up more than your core.

When the world is veering towards madness, get yourself inverted. Go on. Try it.

“When the world is towardsveering madness, get inverted.yourself

et the ballet that is life upside down shift your perspective. And if you can have a person to support you in this endeavour, all the better

5Attention now has to turn to the audience, which can allow spontaneous dance to occur. All it takes is for one person to offer their hand in the air like this, and to lock eyes on the dancers, for it to act like fuel to an improv dance sesh.

With every turn on the heel of the dancers they will dig deeper into the groove and find that sweet spot. See it, feel it, be part of it.

6Here is a city. A glorious city.

Where small-to-medium sized venues

Will offer you the chance

With low ceilings but high hopes,

“When Bristol reveals its re ellious nature it s often daffodils not petrol bombs that get thrown”

To dance till you can dance no more.

And just before you walk out the door.

ou can run your finger tips

Along the ceiling isturbing the sweat screen that has been building up while the 45s span,

And in one glorious second,

You let it rain down on you.

And you are as free as you may ever be.

If this does not sound delightful, perhaps even frightful, then you may not be ready for Wolfs or others’ uin. Where it takes longer to finish a pint in this miraculous micro-climate.

7

eople sometimes say I move a lot when I take photos on the street.

Well, you have to when you are trying to capture the dance that is pasting up one of those bus shelter-sized billboards all over town. I find it kinda interesting that so many gigs, festivals and freebies all rely on this gloopy mess to hold them all up for i hone scrutiny.

on’t even mind if the globs ip through the air and glob up the lens for the shot.

ne day, in the future, I’ve seen this happen, when the boards themselves are thick with years of posters, someone may cut that mass back and slice through it with precision tools and make ewellery, every micron a layer of gig history.

But for me the pure ballet of getting the posters up is king.

8Banksy. Flower bomber.

One of my favourites.

So when Bristol reveals its rebellious nature it’s often daffodils not petrol bombs that get thrown.

And before you get on any high horses take a look at this ill the Bill protest from back in the day. ou remember those days, when you had a chance to stand up for what you believed in before this current tsunami of confusion set in. Ah, those were the days.

Colin Moody: content creation, online images

Twitter @moodycolin; Instagram @colinmoodyphotography www.colinmoodyphotography.wordpress.com

EMILY & DAN ROSS STORYSMITH BOOKS

Missed the Translated By, Bristol fest? Never mind; here are a few highlights

You join us just having completed our firstever literary festival, so please forgive the thousand-yard-stare, but what a fortnight it was. The first-ever Translated By, Bristol festival (co-hosted by us and our pals at Gloucester oad Books with translator/author Polly Barton) saw us gamely programme 12 events in 14 days across four venues, with an international roster of author and translator talent swooping into Bristol from Slovakia, arnataka, enmark and beyond, and focusing on books from locales as disparate as Cameroon, Iraq and Latin America.

If you were lucky enough to be at the event we held in partnership with the International Booker Prize, you’ll have already met

the translators shortlisted for this year’s award (the winners, Banu ushtaq and eepa Bhasthi’s short story collection Heart Lamp, had not at that point been revealed), and hopefully you’ll have left with an appreciation for the art of translation in modern literature. But if you weren’t, then you know what we’re like we’ve cherrypicked our favourites from the shortlist, just for you.

Perfection by Vincenzo Latronico (trans from Italian by Sophie Hughes)

Aptly enough given the title, this is a perfectly constructed novelette, with no dialogue, that forms a bitingly satirical portrait of a couple who appear to have the insta-perfect life.

Anna and Tom live in Berlin, in a meticulously beautiful

apartment with honey-coloured oorboards and Scandinavian furniture, but they are becoming increasingly directionless, placidly sleepwalking into mediocrity and meaninglessness, stuck in a cycle of shallow friendships and striving after unobtainable – yes – perfection. It might irk readers who can’t stomach another page of these privileged people with their existential worries, but in some ways that commitment to discomfort is precisely what makes it so impressive.

Under The Eye Of The Big Bird by Hiromi Kawakami (translated from Japanese by Asa Yoneda)

Heart Lamp by Banu Mushtaq (translated from Kannada by Deepa Bhasthi)

“We found it to be unclassi a le but haunting, indecipherable yet hypnotic”

When we spoke to translator Asa Yoneda at our Bristol event, she made it completely clear that she had no idea how to describe this novel. And who are we to go against the translator?

escribing this dream-like thread of stories is extremely di cult, but perhaps a list of the elements would help clones, species wardens who travel by hovercraft, vivisection, a dystopian view of the family unit, and the slow decline of the human race. Enticed? You should be! We found it to be unclassifiable but haunting, indecipherable yet hypnotic, a gently savage critique (or maybe celebration) of being human.

A supremely deserving winner of the International Booker rize, so perhaps not entirely needing an endorsement from us, but nonetheless we loved Heart Lamp. These short stories were written over a period of 30 years, which gives the collection a uniquely encompassing feel e posing the religious, societal, and political oppressions the author witnessed in her career as a lawyer and activist, this it is a rallying cry against the inhumane cruelty faced by those on the periphery of society. Translator eepa Bhasthi spoke beautifully of her dedication to translating ‘in an accent’, to preserve and deepen the connection to the source text – her translator’s note at the end of the book is worth the cover price alone.

It would be nice to retreat into the shadows for some post-festival relaxation, but literature never sleeps we’ll be ust as busy as always, scouring the best of what’s coming up, ust so you can fight your own way through the swamp of wonderful new books.

More at www.translatedbybristol.com Visit Storysmith at 36 North Street, Bedminster; 0117 953 7961 www.storysmithbooks.com

BENCHMARKS ANDY HAMILTON

Komorebi: think of it as nature’s filter. No instagram required

Today was another warm day, and I went off to find a bench that I know to be rich with komorebi.

Komorebi is a Japanese term, more of a concept really. Loosely translated it means how the sunshine looks when filtering through leaves. We might call it dappled light.

Think of the last time you were in a forest in the summer – that welcome shade on a hot day coupled with a feeling of ease.

There is a bench on one of my daily routes where I can lavish in komorebi, a place I overlooked for years. Thing is, most people overlook it. The bench is made of metal, it’s often covered in rather obscene gra ti and it is routinely covered with litter, sometimes with the added bonus of broken glass to boot. The only people who seem to frequent it are reddened by the sun and early morning tipples of high-strength cider. The roar of the nearby A4 is a constant, sometimes with the extra perks of car horns, sirens, angry swearing and always with gobfuls of diesel fumes. Then, one summer’s afternoon, I was overburdened with bags and needed a rest before I headed

my face. Very unexpectedly, considering what I first thought of this place, I felt content and ready for the steep journey home.

Perhaps employees need more time away from their desks.

up the steepest residential hill in urope. ut of necessity I filled a discarded carrier bag with the takeaway wrappers and empty cans of energy drink left on the benches, and sat.

I had been reading about komorebi the night before, and here I was, experiencing it from the row of London planes that towered above. Instead of the tra c noise I started to hear the long-tailed tits’ song, their shrill calls piercing through the tra c noise. I could hear their partners return call from the elder ower all the way over the five lanes of tra c from the tree behind the Shell garage. They keep in touch as much as they can during nesting season. The melodic and charming song of a blackbird joined in.

I looked up through the mapleshaped leaves to a clear blue sky, and over towards the treeline of the nearby Arnos Vale Cemetery. Then I glanced to the verge in front of me, awash with red clover, daisies, buttercups and vetches; a feast for the bees.

The longer I sat, the more relaxed I felt. The spirals of anxiety had ceased before they had a chance to become knots. Energy returned to my body, and a small smile appeared on

I’m sitting on the bench now. Thinking of how every autumn I’m enchanted by the colour of the leaves as they turn through a range of saffron, terracotta oranges and finally cinnamon browns. Of how the moss on the Burger King roof comes alive against the crisp winter skies.

“Think of the last time you ere in a forest that elcome shade on a hot day”

I look at the road and at those going past. I count 300 people, and other than one smile and two odd looks, no-one notices me, I’m invisible here. Everybody else seems to be in quite a hurry to get where they are going. Indeed, time often feels likes a luxury that is illafforded in our culture.

Thing is, according to a recent study, most employees can waste up to around 2.9 hours a day. Checking social media, attending pointless meetings, personal admin and checking email accounts for a great big chunk of this time. Yet we all know that we function better after a few breaks.

It’s a funny thing, being selfemployed, but these moments on benches are integral to my work. Not only does it give me the time I need practically, to learn the bird songs and their habits, the names of plants and trees and how it all changes through the seasons so I have something to write about; it also gives my brain the time and space it needs to make smarter decisions. Since taking up this practice I feel less like I’m always chasing something and more like I’m always planning something. A subtle but powerful difference in approach.

So, I pour myself my tea and get to work – sitting. 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 has helped many to publication; he’ll soon e offering nature riting for ell eing courses. For more details and to express interest in Andy’s courses email him Andy@andyhamiltonauthor.com –alternatively please feel free to nominate a bench for the next Benchmark

BULRUSH

You can’t say you’ve sampled the best food in Bristol until you’ve visited 21 Cotham Road South Words by Deri Robins

PHOTO

Devoted foodies often attempt to reverse-engineer the meals they’ve had in restaurants, forensically identifying each ingredient so they can recreate the dishes at home.

Well, good luck trying that at Bulrush. It’s not like trying to copy that world-beating carbonara you had at Pazzo; the dishes here are such a marvel of complexity that even if you do manage to extract the DNA of their components you’ll never recapture that first fine careless rapture. Also, if life’s too short for the average person to stuff a mushroom, it’s certainly too short to stuff seafood into a tulip. And do you really have time to forage for meadowsweet to infuse honey made from buckwheat owers? robably not, but luckily, Bulrush’s chef-proprietor George Livesey does.

After sharpening his sabatiers at the likes of Roux, L’Enclume and St John, George opened Bulrush in Cotham back in 2015. Three years later, it won a Michelin star. The former greengrocers had also been home to Stephen Markwick’s Bistro 21 and Juniper – the latter painted an alarming shade of violet inside and out, but all that’s been exorcised now. Today, a restful palette of white paint and dark wood prevails. It’s just on the right side of stark.

Playing in the background are tunes I’m not cool enough to recognise. Seeing me wave my phone around hopefully to catch the attention of Shazam, manager Laura kindly advises me that I can simply access the Bulrush Busy Dinner playlist on Spotify.

The main configuration is tables for two; ideal for a special date night. There’s an open kitchen at the far end of the ground oor, where George con ures up his lovely Anglo-French dishes with a soupçon of Scandi and Japanese; from here, acolytes emerge bearing a series of courses, about nine in all for the evening tasting menu, with a few optional add-ons. As they serve you they will explain each dish down to the last detail; be prepared for a few surprises.

ver tried forkweed? e neither, but I can now reveal that despite its mushroomy avour it’s a kind of seaweed, which George serves with Wye Valley asparagus after poaching it in pumpkin oil. I joyfully remind Your an of the first time he prepared asparagus for me, following my advice that if he snapped the stem it would break off at precisely the right place. Imagine my surprise when he served me the woody lower half; he’d chucked the tips in the bin. He smiles tightly at the memory. George, of course, knows better; he uses his spears make the purée.

Interesting oral touches include magnolia in the scallop course and oxeye daisy purée on a beautiful barbecued Chalk Stream trout. Oh, and the aforementioned tulip, stuffed with minced crab and plaice – a little off-menu delight, served in crab bisque and matcha sauce. The petals taste a little like lettuce; the stalks of asparagus. It’s wholly memorable.

In most tasting menus the meat course is generally my least favourite, shouldering its way onto the table in all its self-important hearty glory after the more delicate dishes, but the medallions taken from various bits of Jacob lamb here are irresistible, served rosily and juicily with soft rounds of gently spicy merguez sausage, citrussy quenelles of yuzu kosho and sweet date purée. I think there was artichoke in the mix there, too.

DINING DETAILS

Bulrush, 21 Cotham Road S; 0117 329 0990; www.bulrushrestaurant.co.uk

Opening hours Lunch: Fri-Sat midday-3.30 Dinner: Tues-Sat sittings start 6-7.30pm; early evening menu Tues-Thurs at 5.30

Price Our evening tasting menu was £90; drinks pairing £70 (non-alcoholic £44) Veggie? Yes, veggie and vegan alternatives Service Friendly and clued-up Atmosphere Calm and laidback

A tumblerful of camomile and swede broth sets us up for a menu that intrigues at every turn. It’s followed by an effulgent trio of down-in-one bites: savoury macarons, white beneath a dusting of pink peppercorns, like little toadstools, sandwiched with velvety duck liver parfait and quince; a tiny donut with picked carrot; mini tuna croustades, punchy with bone marrow and pretty as an English hedgerow with their elder ower petal garnish. And as a veggie alternative, an eclair-shaped pomme dauphinoise, crispy and uffy in all the right places, topped with the kind of marmite mayo the word umami could have been invented for, under a dusting of Fosseway Fleece pecorino.

Mindful of the delights to come, we try not to horse into thick, springy slices of barley-and-stout sourdough, but are helpless in the face of a brioche under a custardy Montgomery cheddar sauce and onion marmalade; it’s like the most elevated Welsh rarebit imaginable.

We order just one of an optional course of Yarlington cheese ice-cream, cursing our foolish restraint after one scoop and failing to share nicely. It’s rich and creamy, indulgently laced with treacly birch sap – semi-savoury, semi-dessert.

Next, a dollop of spruce ice-cream, as invigorating as a stroll through a forest, topped with a tiny caramelised pine cone – if nothing else, a trip to Bulrush provides an education in things you never knew you could eat. The cone is slightly chewy, if you were wondering, and there’s a second ice in the form of palate-rousing apple and sorrel granita.

Presentation throughout, though delicate and lovely, has not been not over-fussed, but a romantic hand in the kitchen has decreed that a dish of meadowsweet- avoured soba honey, so dense you could stick a spoon in it, must be topped with strawberries and set within a larger bowl surrounded by rose petals.

Last up are the petits fours: a blissfully sticky pair of sea buckthorn madeleines (Proustian, but make it Michelin) served with a blood-orange sorbet dusted with chocolate (Jaffa Cake, but make it ichelin).

Speaking of ichelin, given that George was single-handedly ying the ag for Bristol until Wilson’s won its star earlier this year, it’s odd that Bulrush can sometimes y under the radar. It’s slightly tucked away in Cotham, it’s not a shouty kind of place, and while George is massively revered by both peers and diners, he’s not quite as much in the public eye as some of the other Bristol all-stars; he’s probably too busy evolving new and fascinating dishes. Think you’ve ‘done’ the local food scene? Not until you’ve paid Bulrush a visit, you haven’t.

10 BEERS FOR 10 YEARS

A decade of pints, passion and pouring at Bristol Craft Festival

Adecade ago –and oh, don’t get us started on where the time s gone – Bristol Craft Beer Festival tapped its first kegs up at the Skate Park in Motion.

It had a simple goal: to bring incredible beer to an incredible city. Obviously it wasn’t just about the beer – there was some tasty local street food on hand to mop up the booze, and because beer and good-time music go hand in hand there’s always been plenty of that, too.

Not only did the festival survive, but it thrived. It didn't even skip a year during Covid. And since its first outing, the scene has exploded, not just here in Bristol, but globally.

The festival has always been about discovery, and the tenth birthday is no exception. It’s back at Lloyd’s Amphitheatre, the venue that's become its regular home, from 13-14 June, and to give you a steer here’s craft beer connoisseur and event organiser Greg Wells with his top pours this year.

We have beers from over 40 different breweries for everyone to try, so it’s actually pretty hard to choose, but here are 10 breweries you need to know”, he says. “Some homegrown, some from the USA – all bringing something fresh, unexpected and unforgettable to this year’s line-up.”

1URBAN ARTIFACT (USA)

These Cincinnati wildlings are redefining what fruit beer can be. Think bold, tangy, almost cocktail-like avours with serious brewing precision. Their beers rarely make it to UK shores, and they’re unlike anything else you’ll get to try at the festival.

2SYCAMORE BREWING (USA)

Big, brash and deeply Southern in spirit, Sycamore is the kind of American brewery that makes you fall in love with IPAs all over again. Expect punchy hops and unapologetic avour.

3COLUMBIA CRAFT (USA)

Hailing from South Carolina, Columbia brings a fresh take on classic styles with a modern twist. Their creative range of sours and hazy brews are making waves, and Bristol gets the exclusive pour.

“The festival has always been about discovery”

4FIERCE BEER (SCOTLAND)

Scotland’s most rock’n’roll brewery, Fierce is never subtle – from dark, decadent stouts to neon-pink fruit bombs, every beer is brewed to make a statement.

5TWO BLOKES BREWING (USA)

With roots in Charleston, South Carolina, Two Blokes is all about balance – hop-forward farmhouse with finesse. A rare pour which craft nerds and casual drinkers will both love.

6ATTIC BREW CO (BIRMINGHAM)

One of the UK’s rising stars, Attic nails that sweet spot between accessibility and complexity. If you want a snapshot of where British beer is headed, start here.

7LEFT-HANDED GIANT (BRISTOL)

Of course, Bristol represents. LHG’s beer hall is a temple to the local scene, and its progressive beers continue to push the envelope – all brewed a stone’s throw from the festival site.

8FAT HEAD BREWERY (WESTON-SUPERMARE)

A bit of a curveball. This littleknown Somerset gem is quietly making some of the UK’s most avourful, well-balanced beers. One to watch, and one we can wait to crack open at the festival.

9WIPER AND TRUE (BRISTOL)

Now a staple of the city, Wiper & True’s new St Werburgh’s taproom is incredible – and its beer’s only getting better and better. A blend of Bristol creativity with a refined, modern twist.

10BLUNTROCK BREWERY (CORNWALL)

Small batch, big avours, brewed on the coast and full of character. Bluntrock’s bringing the Cornish craft scene into the spotlight – and we’re buzzing to have the team pouring in Bristol. n Tickets are on sale at www.bristolcraftbeerfestival.co.uk with day, evening and weekend options available

A BIT ABOUT GREG

Greg Wells is the co-founder and managing director of We Are Beer, the company which organises the Bristol Craft Beer Festival among others. "Bristol Craft Beer Festival has always been more than just a beer festival", he says. “It’s greater than the sum of its parts, with a combination of amazing brews, food, music, and atmosphere”.

Yes, the dinky glass is included in the ticket price

CAFÉ SOCIETY STAN CULLIMORE

Love shack

Very much so. But I’m getting ahead of myself. Where were we?

In which Stan discovers that he who Dareshacks, wins

The CS crew and I popped into town recently. Took a gentle stroll through Castle Park in the sunshine. Very nice it was too. Can’t beat a bit of sunshine and greenery.

f course, once we’d filled our boots with beauty and strolling, our simple minds turned to even simpler things. Coffee and snacks, for instance. Maybe even brunchables. Can’t get much simpler than that.

Following our noses, we crossed Wine Street, using the rainbow crossing, and found ourselves standing outside Dareshack. We’d been there some time ago, and enjoyed it greatly; since then it has come under new management and I have to say, it has upped its game even further.

“The blackboard drinks menu over the counter suggests a dizzying dip into a world of lipsmacking liquid satisfaction”

Going inside, the first thing you notice is that the place is enormous. Tables and seating spaces fade into the distance in a most friendly, agreeable and, ‘come join us’, kind of way.

Next thing you notice is a mighty fine display of ciabattatype sandwiches, stuffed full of interesting and tasty combos, along with some scrumptious savoury croissants, also stuffed full of tasty treats. And that’s before you even take a peek at the cakes on offer.

The blackboard drinks menu over the counter suggests a dizzying dip into a world of lipsmacking liquid satisfaction. They don’t just make the usual tea and coffee suspects here, they also offer a range of intriguing tipples to tickle your tastebuds. Lavender and Blueberry Fizz, anyone?

After icking through the list, I just couldn’t resist asking for an Earl Grey tonic to go with my ciabatta pastrami sandwich. ave to say they were both outstanding.

The sandwich was a beautifully balanced melange of meaty pickled goodness, while the Earl Grey Tonic came on strong with non-alcoholic cocktail vibes. Like an Old Fashioned, but without the whisky. y coffee companion was equally enchanted with her ham and cheese croissant and coffee combo.

In fact, it was all so perfectly gorgeous we went back for seconds. A baked Basque cheesecake, which was superb, and a Cherry Blossom Iced Matcha, which was quite simply, divine. Loved it.

After all this eating and drinking excitement, we got chatting to the lovely folks who run the place. There’s quite a lot to talk about; the new owners of this top-notch coffee, cake and snackeria café, dealing in speciality coffees, delicate matcha and exotic whatnots also have a comedy club called The Gaffe, Bristol’s ome of Comedy in their stable, along with the esteemed arbour ouse and The Granary restaurants.

And if that wasn’t enough action to keep them busy, they are also in the process of opening up an in-house bakery, so they can expand their range of baked goodies. Phew!

So if you are ever in that part of town, in need of great coffee, exotic beverages or a brunchable feast that takes your tongue to party town, I can thoroughly recommend this place. It’s a real gem.

( ave to say, the comedy club sounds rather good too.) 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

CHARLIE TAYLOR KASK WINE

When it comes to wine, England isn’t France, and it shouldn’t pretend to be

If you’d asked someone 30 years ago to name a decent English wine, you’d probably have been met with a raised eyebrow, as if you’d just suggested planting an olive grove in Doncaster.

Fifteen years ago, ‘in-the-know’ types might’ve name-dropped a few sparkling wines from Sussex, Hampshire or Kent. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier (the grapes of Champagne) were taking root on our chalky soils and beating actual Champagne in blind tastings. They earned spots on Michelin-starred list, and gave nglish fizz a serious glow-up.

But ‘Champagne, but cheaper’? Is that how we want to be known? When you’re a young wine region, it’s tempting to look sideways – to Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne – and try to play their game. But England isn’t France. And it shouldn’t pretend to be.

To really earn its stripes, English wine had to move beyond bubbles. Thankfully, that’s exactly what’s happening. Over the past decade, we’ve become one of the most exciting, experimental and slightly chaotic corners of the wine world.

Yes, 76% of our 8.4 million bottle production is still sparkling, and the three Champagne grapes still dominate. But there’s a shift. A new energy. A movement towards wines that speak in our own accent.

We’re seeing more still wines, made from grapes like Bacchus, Ortega, Madeleine Angevine, and Solaris. Never heard of them? Us neither, before we started diving into English wine. These aren’t knock-offs. They’re originals. Wines with citrus zip, elder ower lift, hedgerow aromatics and a salty, coastal edge. Not pretending to be Sancerre or Chablis. Just being proudly, brilliantly English.

Let’s be like all Brits and talk about the weather.

Making wine in England is, well, character-building. Frost in May. Rain during harvest. Sunshine on Tuesdays only. If you want a predictable vintage, look elsewhere. Trying to make organic or low-intervention wine here is a full-time test of nerves. Mildew thrives in our damp climate, but your sustainable ethos means you can’t use synthetic sprays. Vines need serious care. Yields are lower. Risks are higher.

I once chatted to a winemaker just outside Bristol who lost nearly an entire vintage because of a torrential July. The grapes swelled from the rain and burst. A big commercial producer would have

picked early and fi ed it all in the lab using their petri-dish catalogue of chemicals and additives. But low-intervention winemakers can’t (and won’t) do that. They have to wait. Hope. Pray the weather changes.

And while we’re talking about challenges, land prices, labour costs, and small-scale production mean English wines aren’t exactly cheap. But when you taste a good one? You get it. That price tag? That’s the cost of someone doing it the hard way, in a country that isn’t exactly built for winemaking.

A growing number of English winemakers are taking the lowintervention route. That means wild fermentations, no added yeasts, little (or no) sulphur and cutting out the chemicals.

“Making wine in England is, well, character building”

It’s risky –this climate doesn’t always cooperate – but when it works, the results are alive. Textured. Wild. Properly memorable.

The next wave of English wine isn’t about beating Champagne in blind tastings and treating yourself at a Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s not about perfection – it’s about personality. Producers with muddy boots and strong opinions. Wines that feel a bit wild. A bit raw. A glass that makes you stop and go ‘Oh, that’s interesting’. The kind of thing you pour for your mates and say, “This one’s from Leicestershire…no, really!”

There’s something pretty magical about knocking back a glass made with love and care just a couple of hours from your doorstep.

Wine with a personality. Not polished to death, not trying to mimic Bordeaux or Burgundy. A bit unpredictable. A bit eccentric. Full of charm. Isn’t that English?

Three to try now:

Beltain, Limeburn Hill

From just down the road in Chew Valley, this orange Pet Nat (a form of sparkling wine) is fresh and alive with notes of elder ower and hedgerow that take you straight into the English countryside.

Dream House ’23 Titch Hill

The grapes for this wine are taken from vineyards in London, Wiltshire and East Sussex, with the wine made by Alex and Sam who met while studying winemaking at Plumpton in 2018. An easy-drinking white, this blend of Bacchus, Auxerroia, Chardonnay and Ortega also brings an elder ower note but this time accompanied by lemon peel, Bramley apple and meadow herbs.

The Ancestral Red ’21, Matt Gregory

Matt wasn’t looking to purchase a vineyard when he called a local Leicestershire farmed in 2019 to see if he had some fruit available to make a bit of wine. But we’re glad he did, as he now makes a selection with bags of personality. This sparkling red evokes sloe, red berries and rosehip – the English autumn in a glass.

KASK will be hosting an English wine tasting on 18 June, just before English Wine Week (21-29 June).

But don’t just drink it one week a year –KASK has a full section of their bottle list dedicated to it

Visit KASK Wine at 51 North Street 07522 198081; www.kaskwine.co.uk

LIFELONG SUPPORT

CCS ADOPTION finds families for children who need them and supports them for life

CCS Adoption is a Voluntary Adoption Agency (VAA) and an independent charity that has been matching families with children in need since 1904.

Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, CCS is one of only three VAAs in the UK to achieve this recognition five times in a row.

CCS’s work is similar to that of regional adoption agencies, but CCS can access a larger pool of children from across the country, ensuring the right match between children and families. Additionally, CCS provides lifelong adoption support to all adopted children and their families living in the South West, including areas such as Bristol, South Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire.

CCS Adoption takes pride in being a positive and supportive agency for LGBTQ+ adopters across the South West. In the last five years, 40% of CCS adopters have come from the LGBTQ+ community. One LGBTQ+ adopter shared their experience, saying, “Throughout our whole adoption process, CCS Adoption was

incredibly supportive. The staff went out of their way to help our children settle into our family and provided specialised services and ongoing support post-adoption. We truly couldn’t have asked for a better team of dedicated people.”

Adoption is a journey, and CCS understands that families need support at every step. So, once adopted, families will not be on their own. CCS’s extensive adoption support programme guides families throughout their entire journey. Families can access support from their social worker, the bespoke therapy service, as well as groups, courses, workshops, and social events catering to all ages and stages of adoption.

Building relationships with peers who share similar experiences can create a strong support network for both adoptive parents and children. For children, these peer relationships are essential for developing a sense of identity and belonging. For parents, they can offer a lifelong support network which provides opportunities to share challenges and strategies for navigating complex parenting issues.

As a registered charity, it is funded by local authority fees to find families for children who need them. However, much of the ongoing

support given to adoptive families or adoptees is not statutorily funded, and CCS Adoption is committed to raising vital charitable funds to continue to provide that lifelong support.

If you feel you can and would like to support them, you can donate on the website or contact fundraising@ccsadoption.org.

If you are considering adoption or are ready to take the next step, CCS hosts monthly free online information events where their expert adoption team will explain the process and answer any questions you may have. You will also have the chance to hear from their adopters and learn about their experiences. n

Get in touch with the team to book a place at advice@ccsadoption.org or 0117 935 0005.

To learn more about CCS Adoption, visit www.ccsadoption.org/

ROKA CANFIELD BAG, £64.95

Made using recycled bottles; weatherresistant, durable and sleek, with a very practical wide opening, a secret back panel pocket and a laptop sleeve

From Bristol Museum Shop, Queen s Road www.bristolmuseums.org.uk

ILSE JACOBSEN FLIP FLOPS, £35

If the colour wasn’t already summer on a stick, the thongs are decorated with glitter

From Grace & Mabel, 18 The Mall www.graceandmabel.co.uk

GOOD DAY SUNSHINE

This selection is brought to you by the colour yellow: the most cheerful, summery hue in the spectrum

STELLA NOVA HALIA LUE DRESS, £139.30 (FROM £199)

The pale yellow gingham is giving us nostalgic schoolday vibes; if only our uniform had been this cute

From Grace & Mabel, 18 The Mall www.graceandmabel.co.uk

GOLD AND YELLOW SAPPHIRE

EAR STUDS, £550

Double yellow: vivid yellow sapphires set in 9ct Fairtrade gold From Diana Porter, 33 Park Street www.dianaporter.co.uk

AREAWARE CUBEBOT ROBOT PUZZLE, £29

UStudio have excellent desk toys. This little chap is inspired by Japanese Shinto Kumi-ki puzzles and can be positioned in dozens of poses

From U Studio, 115 Gloucester Road; www.ustudio.shop

THE SPEZIA, £135

OK, so you’ve picked the frame colour (great choice); now you just have to decide whether you want them polarised, and/or made to prescription, and which 14 different lens tint to choose From Jimmy Fairly, 90 Park Street; www.jimmyfairly.com

HAMILTON DINING CHAIR, £349

Designed by Morten Georgsen, the organic shape offers cocooning comfort while a slim waist offers e ible sitting comfort

From Bo Concept, 76-78 Whiteladies Road www.boconcept.com

ANNI

LU DAISY FLOWER NECKLACE, £160

The sweetest collection of beaded glass owers on 18kt gold, interpersed with freshwater pearls. rom ar e ichols hiladelphia treet har e nichols com

GIVENCHY

‘HUBERT OBJECTS’ COTTON T-SHIRT, £490

SELF-PORTRAIT

X CHRISTOPHER KANE MINI SKIRT, £400

BUBBLE MATT

HAIRCLAW

£7.50

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The print re ects founder ubert de Givenchy’s enthusiasm for art: along with the stag and dog there’s a classical sculpture rom ar e ichols hiladelphia treet har e nichols com

LIEWOOD RIVER RAIN BOOTS, £POA

Just as happy trampling muddy festival fields as dashing to the shops on a drizzly Brizzly day rom a e lothing, - he all ma eclothing co u

In Self- ortrait’s first esidency collection, Christopher Kane studs his micro-mini with sparkling crystals and trims it with ru ed lace –pretty and playful. rom ar e ichols hiladelphia treet har e nichols com

IB LAURSEN ENAMEL BUTTER BOX, £26

This pretty pastel-yellow enamel butter box echoes the utilitarian elements found in practical yet contemporary home decor rom on ote, a orth treet monpote co u

LEITMOTIV ‘HOOD’ TABLE LAMP, £58

Traditional meets contemporary; sure to brighten up your room in more ways than one. From Fig 1, Unit 9, Gaol Ferry Steps g co u

SCHOOL GUIDE VICTORIA BOND

Question time

What do parents need to ask when visiting a school in 2025?

Anyone who has sat on a tiny plastic chair at a primary school parents’ evening will know that, on the face of it, classrooms don’t look much different. But the way our children are learning – both inside and outside school – is changing faster than a playground exit at 4pm on a Friday.

So, the questions we ask when visiting a prospective school need to move with the times.

Firstly, old-school Qs still need As: what are the class sizes/range of exam subjects/schools clubs/ post-school destinations? It’s also always good to take one or two cross-examination topics that you won’t find answers to on the website. What do you actually do if a child falls behind? How much homework do you really give?

Post-Covid, parents are more up to speed on checking SEN provision and levels of pastoral support. Even if extra help doesn’t feel relevant right now, ask what’s on offer. But what else do we need to know when it comes to nailing

our children’s education as the world, and specifically the world of work, changes?

TECH – TO BOT OR NOT?

The debate on the proposed bill for a blanket ban on smartphones in schools has just been postponed to July. This means schools will have a range of individual policies including ‘allowed but used only at breaks’ to a gate-to-gate system (phones are off from the point pupils enter). Some schools even offer sealable pouches or lockers.

Find out current rules and, importantly, sanctions. It’s also worth checking www. smartphonefreechildhood.co.uk, which is working on a school tra c-light system for parents.

Also ask about the school’s position on the use of AI, including ChatGPT especially, when it comes to homework. Don’t shy away from those who actively encourage its use as a tool. It’s brilliant; and the best schools will help our children embrace the power of the bot.

PROGRESS – A TO Z, NOT JUST A*

Schools are now judged by a range of measures; not just pieces of paper with grades on. The way teaching staff adds value to a pupil’s journey is key. Do check the school’s progress score (usually on a point scale with a national and local average by comparison) and ask it to identify its most successful methods for bringing its pupils on.

S P A C E

Finally, this word serves as a visual reminder to mind the gaps when researching a potential school. Not gaps in knowledge; but how important are break time periods in the school day?

“Ask about the school’s position on the use of AI”

FUTURE-PROOF LEARNING

There’s a fantastic YouTube clip of the CEO of LinkedIn, Ryan Roslansky, talking about being asked by his teenage daughter what she should study when the future of the job market is so uncertain.

He says, “Learning how to learn is the most important skill that matters right now. Whatever new tools come out; just learn them.” Ask the school about super and extra curricular opportunities which extend and stretch knowledge beyond textbooks. A fancy range doesn’t matter; it’s about a core willingness to foster a e ibility among pupils – all pupils – to try new things.

Research by UCL has shown that secondary school pupils have 65 minutes less breaktime per week than in 1995, with some schools offering as little as 35 minutes for lunch. School breaks have been squeezed so teachers have more time to get through the national curriculum and limit poor playground behaviour. Does the school see rest as productive? Space in the day offers vital interaction with peers, the opportunity to develop social skills and gives developing brains the chance to assimilate learning. oung grey stuff matters.

Victoria Bond is the founder and CEO of School Guide, an easy-to-use website that helps parents explore the best schools in the area, including catchment maps and parent reviews For more: www.schoolguide.co.uk

Put schools to the test with a few of your own questions

Bruno Oliveira, University of Bath

Steve Hewitt, Gymshark

Christian Owens, Paddle

Zara Nanu, WorkVue & Gapsquare

Amy Golding, Steven Bartlett Private Office

Madelaine Thomas, Image Angel

Alex Lloyd, Burges Salmon

James Courtney, LUX Rewards

WE LIKE THE WAY YOU WORK IT NETWORK

THE FACE OF THE MODERN OFFICE

WE CAN WORK IT OUT

DeskLodge – one of the most creative work spaces around

We work to live, not live to work – but thanks to the fresh, imaginative approach of modern workspace design, there’s far less reason to balk at hours spent in the office

Words by Ursula Cole

Nobody on their deathbed has ever uttered the words, “I wish I’d spent more time in the o ce .

That said, over the past decade or so the o ce landscape has changed enormously, with many companies now pushing traditional workspace boundaries, offering benefits that range from free exercise classes to wacky working environments.

Furthermore, following the postCovid work-from-home revolution, there’s been a boom in the spacefor-hire sector, with a lot of people welcoming the structure, support and camaraderie that goes with a shared working environment. Here are some of the options out there.

DESKLODGE

Funky, award-winning coworking spaces in Redcliffe and Beacon Tower

“At DeskLodge, we believe great work starts with the right space, says managing director Jamie Ellis. “That’s why we’ve created a mix of vibrant open-plan co-working zones, focus-friendly quiet areas, and fully serviced private o ces, all designed to e around the way you work. Whether you’re ying solo or growing a team, there’s a space with your name on it.

Any special facilities or USPs?

Loads! From plug-and-play meeting rooms with video conference kit and superfast Wi-Fi, to our legendary themed zones (yes, we have a hobbit hole), everything is built to spark ideas and make work wonderful. We go beyond desks and coffee we create energising environments in which people love to work.

Does any particular sector work out of your offices?

We’re proud to be home to a buzzing mix of businesses, from tech innovators and creative teams to coaches and consultants, freelancers and start-ups. That variety is part of the magic, creating natural networking opportunities

“OUR LEGENDARY THEMED ZONES INCLUDE A HOBBIT HOLE”

and a diverse, dynamic vibe which fuels fresh thinking.

How important is after-hours socialising?

Massively. We’re big believers that some of the best ideas happen over coffee or pastries. ur regular socials, wellness events, community lunches and pop-up perks help members connect, unwind, and collaborate. It’s about building community, not just renting space.

Anything else?

DeskLodge isn’t just where you work, it’s where your best work happens. We make every workday feel extraordinary, with a smile, a spring in our step, and a space that just works. www.desklodge.com

FLEXICO

Serviced offices in Stoke Gifford. Flexico is all about ‘connect and go’ – your workspace, your terms. Everything you need, and nothing that you don’t, from long-term agreements to meeting rooms which are bookable by the hour.

Here’s commercial development manager Emily Carmichael:

Any special facilities or USPs?

Our Flexico team is our best USP! We provide top customer service and look after your o ce space so your business can focus on growing. We have bright, airy external o ces with free parking and ample landscaped grounds outside; we also have a small breakout space and our own Pilates studio onsite.

Does any particular sector work out of your offices?

A multitude of different businesses work here including tech companies, defence, medical and recruitment clients.

How important is after-hours socialising?

We feel connecting with other people and businesses is important inside and outside of the working day. We encourage this by spending time with our clients and conducting events onsite to help them learn about each other and build relationships.

Anything else?

We offer competitive pricing and everything you need to set up a new business or relocate a wellestablished enterprise. e ico co

FUTURE LEAP

Bright, airy, open-plan coworking space within a restored Old Chapel on Oakfield Road

“We are a co-working space with a thriving community of likeminded professionals, offering desk hire, from hot-desk to permanent, private o ce rental and meeting room hire for four to 40 people , says marketing and communications manager Steph Barnes. “We have the fully serviced Media Studios,

Two-legged and four-legged colleagues at Square Works

including a recording room, podcast studio and green-screen film studio.

“Our spaces are designed for remote workers looking to feel part of something, and have somewhere to ‘come in to’; small teams who want to work together a few days a week; expanding teams who want a stable base from which to grow their business; businesses downsizing their physical o ce spaces but wanting to offer connection points to their team, and podcasters establishing their mark and seeking a more professional set up.”

Any special facilities or USPs?

A huge benefit to our co-workers is access to the Future Leap Sustainable Business Network, offering invaluable opportunities to connect with key contacts working in the Bristol sustainability scene.

ur co-workers also have a free networking lunch once a month (food provided) to facilitate introductions and spark conversations. There are quiet plant-filled breakout areas, private call booths, bike storage and shower facilities, and asunny gardenfor a moment of calm during the day.

Does any particular sector work out of your offices?

Yes! Future Leap is a lynchpin in the Bristol sustainability sector. ur co-working space is certified carbonneutral and is home to our consultancy team who work with other businesses to measure, manage and reduce their carbon emissions.

How important is after-hours socialising?

Facilitating connection with others is at the heart of our mission, and crucial to enable progress in responding to the climate crisis. It is only through collaboration and everyone doing all they can, all at once, that will enable that response to meet the scale of the challenge.

Anything else?

We also have a number of clients registered with our ‘virtual o ce’ service – register your business to a public address, have your post sent to a manned o ce and utilise a location right in the heart of Bristol www.futureleap.co.uk

OREGA BRISTOL

Modern, flexible workspaces on Colston Avenue, without the headaches of traditional leases.

“The workspaces are designed to boost productivity, run by first-class teams and powered by supercharged technology”, says marketing manager Ella Hanley. “We provide tailor-made solutions to fit your business needs, including a mix of private and collaborative spaces.”

Any special facilities or USPs?

es, we offer a range of standout features including a first-class concièrge service, collaboration spaces, private phone booths, and unlimited barista-style coffee. In

addition, we provide more space per person than the industry norm, ensuring a premium and comfortable working environment. We also offer shower and changing facilities along with car parking and cycle storage.

Does any particular sector work out of your offices?

We support a broad range of sectors, ranging from recruitment to business services or legal and real estate. Orega attracts everyone from SMEs to larger corporate occupiers, offering high-quality, professional workspaces with a welcoming community feel.

How important is after-hours socialising?

We believe socialising is important for building the community and encouraging collaboration. We host monthly centre events where customers can network and socialise with other businesses, ranging from happy hours to charity-led initiatives

and seasonal events. We support the local community by hosting regular pop-ups from Bristol businesses, giving them a platform to connect with our customers and offer exclusive discounts and promotions.

Anything else?

We also have 25 locations across the UK, giving our customers access to over 80 meeting rooms nationwide. ur hospitality-led service ensures every customer enjoys a seamless experience, whether based in a serviced o ce, dropping in for a one-hour meeting, or collecting post as a virtual o ce user. www.orega.com

ORIGIN WORKSPACE

A carefully curated mix of open plan co-working areas, private offices, meeting rooms, and quiet zones, set in Clifton’s Berkeley Square

“Whether you’re a remote worker needing a hot desk, a growing business seeking a e ible o ce, or a team wanting a professional base in central Bristol, our space adapts

ABOVE: DeskLodge; LEFT: Media Studios at Future Leap; INSET: Orega

to your needs, with oor-to-ceiling windows bringing in natural light, and many areas en oying panoramic views over Brandon ill and the city skyline , says marketing manager alvinder aur.

Any special facilities or USPs?

We believe in going beyond ust providing a desk. ur members have access to a gym and wellness studio, a rooftop terrace, secure bike storage, showers, and barista-quality coffee. What really sets rigin apart, though, is our commitment to community. We offer a rich programme of events, from networking breakfasts to wellness sessions, all curated to help our members connect, grow and en oy e periences from fellow Bristol independents. As an independent business ourselves, championing others in the local community is at the heart of what we do.

Is there any particular sector that works out of your offices?

While we welcome businesses from all sectors, there’s a particularly strong presence of creative professionals and tech innovators. rigin is a hub for individuals and

“ORIGIN IS MORE THAN JUST A WORKSPACE; IT’S A PLATFORM FOR GROWTH”

teams who are driven, collaborative, and value working in an inspiring and well-connected environment.

How important is after-hours socialising?

We know that the best ideas often come from spontaneous conversations, which is why we encourage socialising both during the working day and after hours. ur lounge and event spaces are designed to bring people together, and our regular social events, from Thursday appy our to wellness walks and charity challenges, create natural opportunities for members to connect beyond their to-do lists.

Anything else?

At rigin, we’re more than ust a workspace we’re a platform for growth, whether you’re an individual, a small team, or a growing business. As summer approaches, we’re making the most of our stunning roof terraces, perfect for outdoor working or winding down after a meeting. www.originworkspace.co.uk

SQUARE WORKS

Bristol’s only high-end serviced offices and co-working space with a private members’ club, in Berkeley Square

We have a wide range of spaces available, from large serviced o ces to dedicated desk areas , says marketing manager annah Graham. We have a number of lounges and breakout spaces, and a range of meeting rooms, phone

booths and presentation spaces. embers can choose between multiple hot-desking areas, whether seeking a quiet space to power through their to-do lists, or a lively and collaborative area to inspire ideas and encourage connections.

Spaces are available to both members and non-members, and are all equipped with video conferencing systems, anasonic TVs and complimentary refreshments, with the option of having food from the awardwinning Square itchen delivered to your desk.

ur recent e pansion into an additional Georgian town house on Berkeley Square introduced five new oors of lu urious o ces, meeting rooms, and a state-of-theart fitness suite to our portfolio.

Any special facilities or USPs?

We are the only e ible workspace with a private members’ club in Bristol. stablished in 1 0 as Bristol’s first private members’ club for creatives, The Square Club is now a vibrant and established club, with a network of over 1200 members.

The Square Club is home to a boutique lounge, the Square itchen restaurant, ower eck cocktail bar and the fully heated and covered outdoor Secret Garden. It’s also part of the Sonato Alliance, which means members can access the highest quality members’ clubs across the globe at no e tra cost.

How important is after-hours socialising?

rom the friendly welcome our members en oy every morning, to the lively’ parties that continue into the night, we encourage connections that go beyond the traditional work environment

We have an e tensive events calendar, offering everything from seasonal soirées to business development seminars. ur regular’ drinks event brings together members from all around the building, and our seasonal parties offer the chance to unwind and socialise over cocktails and food from Square itchen.

Anything else?

Square Works is part of uarter, an independent hospitality group with over 0 years of e perience in Bristol. This e pertise has allowed us to pioneer a co-working space that feels like a home for individuals and businesses of all sizes, with fivestar hotel-like service integrated into the everyday.

This year we’ve been recognised for our impact on the co-working industry, including winning Bristol’s Best Workspace at the Bristol roperty Awards, Co-working Space rovider of the ear at the Corporate ivewire Innovation and cellence Awards, and Best CoWorking nvironment 2025 at the S News nterprise Awards. www.squareworksbristol.com

Origin: is it too early to leave the desk for rooftop cocktails yet?

LIFESTYLE AND LEGACY

A vision for Bristol: DESIGN SEVEN tell us about their

involvement with Brabazon

At the heart of one of the South West’s most exciting new neighbourhoods, a show home quietly tells a bigger story.

For Design Seven, this project wasn’t just about interiors, but about identity, community, and the future of how we live.

A SHOW HOME WITH SOUL

Brabazon, the landmark project by YTL Developments to transform the former Filton Airfield, is a bold vision for a community fit for modern lifestyles. The team has recently launched the second phase of new homes at Brabazon, known as The Heritage District, located next door to the incredible collections of the Aerospace Bristol museum.

Design Seven was invited to bring its signature design approach to a new show home within The Heritage District, and is proud to be part of this visionary project. The Coanda is a brand new two-bedroom house which is larger than many three-bedroom homes built by national developers. The brief was to create a carefully curated space which blends Bristol character with contemporary living, while showcasing the sense of space and generous room dimensions.

From bespoke joinery to hand-painted murals and local artwork, every detail of the design was chosen with purpose. Framed pieces pay tribute to the city’s landmarks – the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the historic harbour – while a handpainted canvas of the old airfield hangars nods to the site’s extraordinary past.

One standout feature is the dual home office. In many standard new homes, the study is an afterthought: a small box room, cramped for space. Not at Brabazon.

The larger room dimensions allowed the team to create a fully functional workspace for not just one, but two people to work from home. Designed to suit different working styles, each side of the room has its own colour scheme and identity. The aim was to create a space which feels personal, purposeful, and comfortable –enabling flexible modern lifestyles where two people may require dedicated workspaces.

BRABAZON: A PLACE WHICH CHANGES EVERYTHING

Filton Airfield has long been part of Bristol’s story. Once home to World War II Hurricanes and the birthplace of Concorde, it is now being reimagined as a dynamic new district and one of the most sustainable and connected neighbourhoods in the South West.

Approximately 300 homes are now completed and occupied, with a further 100 low-carbon homes well underway in The Heritage District. Designed by award-winning architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, these distinctive red and white brick homes are set along leafy ‘living streets’ and powered entirely by greener energy, with solar panels, EV charging points, and airsource heat pumps included as standard.

They are also located less than a fiveminute walk from Bristol’s newest train station, currently under construction at Brabazon, which will connect the neighbourhood to Bristol

Temple Meads in under 15 minutes when it opens next year.

With a heritage trail, new schools, a community hub and extensive green space, this is a place designed for the long term.

ALIGNED IN VISION AND VALUES

YTL Developments and Design Seven share a clear belief: great design should balance beauty with practicality – and always serve the people who live with it. As Brabazon continues to take shape, the homes within it are doing more than providing places to live. They are telling stories, reflecting identities, and setting a new standard for modern city living. For Design Seven, it has been a privilege to help bring that vision to life. n

12B Greenway Farm, Bath Road, Wick, Bristol, BS30 5RL; info@designseven.co.uk; www.designseven.co.uk;  design7interiors

1 Fairlawn Avenue, Patchway, Bristol, BS34 4AB; 0330 1234 207; www.brabazon.co.uk;  Brabazonbristol

Emailhomesales@brabazon.co.ukfor home enquiries or info@brabazon.co.uk for general enquiries

www.mediaclash.co.uk

FRESH THINKING OVER A FINE LUNCH

Unique social business occasion: live interview with Tristan Hogg, Pieminister Tuesday 16 Sept at Harbour Hotel Bristol

QUAKE UP

It’s all-change at Quakers Friars. Investor and manager Hammerson’s plans for the transformation of the quarter has been given the go-ahead, and is set to introduce more accessible and interactive public spaces alongside new cultural amenities and landscaped public areas as an active part of the city centre’s ongoing transformation.

The proposed development encompasses several listed buildings and focuses on five specific zones, namely uakers Square, Cloister Square, Philadelphia Square, Quakers Lane, and Narrow Weir Lane.

Plans include investment in the historic Friary Building, which dates back to the Dominican Friary founded in the 13th century, with the ambition for new cultural uses and a focus for a e ible exchange space for community and creative events. The adjacent retail units will also be transformed and bring the potential for more services, such as healthcare and workspaces, adding to the already strong dining and food offer which includes the

COME TOGETHER

Three separate Bristol business improvement districts (BIDs) have announced plans to combine into a single organisation.

eaders from Bristol City Centre, edcliffe Temple, and Broadmead BID have proposed a consolidated approach which will be decided in a ballot; if it goes ahead the new BID will begin in November.

The plan is to invest 18 million over five years to foster “A more vibrant, inclusive and resilient city centre , while unifying e ciency, consolidating services, and amplifying impact across Bristol’s central areas by pooling resources citywide.

Supported by businesses, Visit West, the Local Visitor Economy Partnership, and Bristol City Council, the new model emphasises placemaking, public safety, sustainability, and business promotion.

“This is a pivotal moment for Bristol”, said Vicky Lee, director of Bristol City Centre BID.

“The opportunity to combine our resources and ambitions under one BI offers not only value for businesses but the chance to elevate the city’s national profile. This isn’t ust about e ciency, it’s about vision, delivery and pride in our place.”

recently opened Six by Nico.

Adaptable event spaces will be integrated into the public domain, along with the introduction of public art, the creation of natural and public spaces, outdoor areas for dining and informal seating.

According to the application, the initiative aims to Cultivate a more welcoming, unified environment that encourages interaction and enriches the overall visitor experience”. www.hammerson.com

THE TIGER AND THE WOLF

The proposed BID hopes to generate up to £3.8 million annually from over 1,000 businesses. Focused on safe and supported communities and sustainable and green initiatives, the BID aims to enhance public spaces, support climate action, and address homelessness, ensuring Bristol’s continued evolution as a vibrant and resilient city centre. www.bristolcitycentrebid.co.uk

Following a copyright infringement dispute, local ‘amazement park’ Wake the Tiger and US attraction Meow Wolf have reached a mutually agreeable solution out of court. To quote a joint statement, “Wake The Tiger recently met with Meow Wolf to have an open and constructive discussion regarding some visual similarities between works in our respective exhibitions.

“Both organisations approached this with mutual respect and a shared commitment to artistic integrity. Wake The Tiger listened to Meow Wolf’s concerns, and in the spirit of collaboration, reached an amicable solution, including making adjustments in the Wake the Tiger exhibition.

“The dialogue has been a valuable opportunity to reinforce the principles of respect, artistic exchange, and collaboration that both of our collectives uphold. We deeply value the work that each contributes to the creative community and remain committed to pushing forward on our distinct artistic paths. We appreciate the positive engagement between us and look forward to fostering a constructive and supportive relationship in the future.”

www.wakethetiger.com

SPECIAL AGENT

TOM LACK

As Boardwalk’s creative director explains, this B Corp- certified estate agency is changing the way people sell their homes in Bristol

The fact that Boardwalk has a creative director among its relatively small team says a lot about the company’s priorities.

The man in the role is Tom Lack. Tom explains that when the company was founded 10 years ago, its mission was simple: to change how people feel about estate agents.

“We saw there was a real disconnect – especially in Bristol, where agents ust didn’t re ect the spirit or creativity of the city”, he says. “That original idea is still at the heart of what we do – and it’s been encouraging to see others start to up their game.”

You describe Boardwalk as ‘lifestyle-focused’– how does this translate into practice?

We want selling your home to feel exciting, not exhausting. A lot of our clients are drawn to Bristol for its character and independence, and we try to re ect that in how we work. We focus on the story behind the home – the memories people have made there, and the life someone else could imagine living in it.

We also became a certified B Corp last month, with a score of 101; our

highest marks were in community and culture, which felt especially meaningful. Last year, we gave 5 of our profits back to Bristol through things like arts trails, local commissions and a brilliant schools competition we ran with Aardman.

It’s all connected – the more we invest in our communities, the stronger they become. And the stronger they are, the easier homes are to sell within them.

Tell us about your HomeWorks service, and what it offers

There’s a rumour we style every home we sell – we’d love to take the credit, but honestly, it’s mostly down to our brilliant homeowners. HomeWorks is there for people who want a bit of support, whether that’s styling advice, help with staging, or even renting their home out for photo or video shoots. It’s about making the most of a space, and adding value wherever we can.

Is there a Boardwalk ‘type’ of property?

Not really – if you live in Bristol (or want to), you’re a potential client. Yes, we love good design and inspiring spaces, but it’s never just about the aesthetic. Not every home

we sell ends up on our Instagram feed, but every client gets the same level of care and attention. When someone says, “We just want a Boardwalk home”, it means a lot. It shows that what we’re doing and how we’re doing it is resonating.

How do you stay ahead of property trends?

We’re happily postcode-agnostic. While some agents stick to one neighbourhood, we work across the city, because buyers rarely limit themselves to just one spot. Most people are looking for a certain kind of lifestyle, and that can be found in lots of different areas, whether that’s Bedminster, St George or orfield. Working citywide also means we’ve got a good sense of how pricing is shifting, so we can keep our valuations realistic and wellinformed.

Are there any particular challenges faced by your sector at the moment?

efinitely. The housing crisis is very real, with not enough homes being built, and many of the new ones missing the mark in terms of quality and liveability. We’re not claiming we’ve got all the answers, but we do

“WHILE WE MIGHT NOT HAVE THE BUDGETS THE BIG GUYS DO, WE DO KNOW THIS CITY INSIDE OUT”

believe we can play a positive role in the places we work. That’s what B Corp is about for us showing up, doing the right thing, and staying accountable.

What marketing strategies have been most effective for acquiring new clients?

We’re still a small, independent team, and while we might not have the budgets the big guys do, we do know this city inside out.

We try to connect with people in a way that feels genuine, through storytelling, collaboration and creativity. We’re really clear about who we are and what we care about.

From day one, we’ve been aware that one of the biggest hurdles is the reputation of estate agents as a whole. So we’ve focused on building something people feel good about recommending, even if they’re not moving right now. That kind of trust doesn’t come from one big campaign; it’s the result of lots of little decisions made well.

What role does sustainability play in your business practices?

Sustainability’s a big word, but we try to live it, not just talk about it. ur B Corp certification holds us to a high standard across the board, from how we treat our team, to how we support our city, to how we think about the future.

It’s not about box-ticking; it’s about being thoughtful in the day-today, and making sure our impact is a positive one.

Share a few favourite testimonials

“They are a lovely bunch of people who act with integrity and their approach to marketing was a breath of fresh air.”

“A far cry from the stereotypical image of estate agents as untrustworthy and slimy!”

For more www.boardwalkpropertyco.com

THE HOME FRONT

CHARLOTTE HALE

Charlotte worked in the new homes sector for over 15 years before joining Acorn as regional sales manager in 2015

Iwas drawn to Acorn’s designled, sustainable approach, and the chance to work on meaningful, characterful developments”, says Charlotte. “I love being part of a team that’s genuinely passionate about creating beautiful homes and vibrant communities.”

Can you give us some context about Acorn: when was it founded, and what was the main idea behind the company?

Acorn Property Group started in London in 1995, with just three employees. The aim has always been to build beautiful homes that would stand the test of time, using the highest quality materials for the most sustainable outcome.

This year we celebrate 30 years of Acorn! We now have a strong presence across the South West, with o ces in Bristol, Cardiff, eter and Cornwall. Our developments follow our ‘ ifferent by esign’ ethos, so each is unique, but the objective of sustainability is kept consistent across the board.

Tell us more about that ‘Different by Design’ ethos In a nutshell, our developments

are individually designed and built to the highest quality as a positive contribution to the surrounding community.

Our portfolio is broad, so whatever you’re looking for, from city apartments to rural family homes, coastal retreats or somewhere to spend your retirement, we’ve built it. We also take on thoughtful redevelopments of e isting buildings. You might recognise a couple of our Bristol refurbished sites, such as Brandon ard, along the harbourside opposite the ss Great Britain

One of your latest projects is Bucklands Place. Can you tell us about this, and what makes it special?

Bucklands lace is a collection of 1 three- and four-bedroom homes in the thriving town of Nailsea, priced between 5 , 5- 5,000. ach is stunningly finished and predicted an C rating of A with features such as solar V panels and V charging infrastructure. We’ve even incorporated biodiversity-enhancing landscaping. And, being just a 10-minute walk from the train station, the homes couldn’t be better located to stay connected to Bristol.

Who is the development mostly aimed at?

We have a variety of house types available to suit a range of lifestyles, perfect for growing families, professionals and downsizers. Nailsea offers a balance between suburban living with that e tra space and more involved community, with easy accessibility to the city for work, leisure, or maybe even pro imity to relatives. This diversity of residents makes for a full, thriving community and we see Bucklands lace becoming just that.

With Bristol house prices rising, is Nailsea destined to be a hotspot?

It definitely is, with a thriving high street and access to highly-rated schools, there is little Nailsea doesn’t offer. If you’re moving out of the city but still want that easy access to the lifestyle with great amenities on your doorstep as well, investing in a home in Nailsea just makes sense, and I would do it before everyone else catches on, too!

Why else do you think Nailsea is a great place to live?

It has rural charm with modern convenience. The town centre is full

“INVESTING IN A HOME IN NAILSEA JUST MAKES SENSE, AND I WOULD DO IT BEFORE EVERYONE ELSE CATCHES ON, TOO!”

of independent local businesses and there are also so many green spaces. Backwell ake and Nature eserve is a short walk from the development, and if you want to hop in the car Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is just down the road for a brilliant day out.

What are the benefits of a newbuild home?

New-build homes are an investment for the future. They are more energye cient, which means you can en oy lower running costs. Our homes give peace of mind, as they come with a 10-year warranty and are built to the latest standards with the highest quality materials. No need for renovations or deep-cleaning either, as a new home is move-in ready. What sets us apart is that Acorn homes are bespoke, and designed so that every feature enhances your living e perience.

What does Acorn offer to make buying easier?

Our Assisted Move scheme is available on most developments, including Bucklands lace, Acorn will help you to sell your e isting home and with Assisted Move Plus, contribute £9000 towards your moving costs*. However, our sales teams’ quality service makes a big impact. Moving can be stressful, but our teams work closely with our buyers, gaining awareness of their needs to ease the process. It’s that personal touch that we feel is really important.

*T&Cs are detailed in full on the Acorn website.

For more www.acornpropertygroup.org

WELCOME TO THE MINDSPA

EntreConf, the conference for new business thinkers, returns to Watershed on 18-19 June. Uniquely powerful insights and valuable connections await attendees

Where do you get ideas to help develop your company? Interested in new business thinking? Enjoy hearing from entrepreneurs? Keen to be around smart thinkers with different perspectives? And want to make enduring, helpful connections from a few hundred leading business people? Then it might just be worth popping along to EntreConf, the entrepreneurs’ event returning to Watershed on 18-19 June.

There’ll be sessions on the ‘next big thing’; female entrepreneurs; AI, including exclusive research; entrepreneurs’ tales; the leverage effect of brands and networks; and preparing a business for exit.

There’s also a special EntreConf Dinner on the night of 18 June, with 60 entrepreneurs assembling to hear the inside story of major local success story

LUX Rewards, started at the University of Bath, and sold by founder James Courtney for an eight-figure sum. It’s quite the tale.

There’s also a major new feature this year: the EntreConf itchCase, in which five companies pitch their business and a panel of experts gives live feedback on pitch content. The aim is to provide valuable insights to all companies attending. All businesses and entrepreneurs have to sell – to employees, clients and potentially funders or even those buying the company. So what expert insights might help you?

Whether for deep connections or lightbulb-moment insights, EntreConf is set to be the business event of the year.

Let’s take a look at some of the stellar EntreConf speakers:

Amy Golding, UK’s youngest female to run a $100m business, now boss of all of Steven Bartlett’s commercial activities, talking about building teams.

Christian Owens who founded Paddle in his teens: its value when he sold before he was 30 was £1.1bn.

Eleanor Thatcher of Thatchers Cider talking about next-generational entrepreneurialism.

Furqan, founder of Sora Aviation, electric vertical take-off planes, on operating in a hot sector and seeking to raise a cool $1 billion.

“ENTRECONF IS SET TO BE THE BUSINESS EVENT OF THE YEAR”

is about to scale significantly.

Giovanna Laudisio of cleantech startup Naturbeads, which has raised £7.8m and is seeking to raise a further £60m in all.

Steve Hewitt, chief exec of Gymshark on the challenges of scaling it from £5m to £500m sales.

Tim Edwards, revealing the full story of selling a significant part of his games media business, Network N.

For more: www.entreconf.com

Gilly Ridley Whittle, founder of women’s apparel business Peachaus which has already had £2m investment and

JUNE 18-19

WATERSHED

NEW BUSINESS THINKING

ENTRECONF AT A GLANCE

WHAT: Two-day conference for entrepreneurs, advisers and new-business thinkers WHEN & WHERE: 18-19 June at Watershed HOW: Delegate passes via the website COMMERCIAL PARTNERS: Led by headline partner Burges Salmon, plus: Ambitious, Bath Spa University, Isio, Lombard Odier, Mytton Williams, University of Bath School of Management, Albert Goodman, Digital Wonderlab, Foresight Group, Link Stone Advisory, Square Works & Evelyn Partners. PLUS: EntreConf will feature the grand reveal of EntreConf Awards finalists. FOR MORE: www.entreconf.com

Bruno Oliveira, University of Bath

Steve Hewitt, Gymshark

Christian Owens, Paddle

Agatha Yerbury, Revflo

Amy Golding, Steven Bartlett’s Private Office

Madelaine Thomas, Image Angel

Lloyd, Burges Salmon

James Courtney, LUX Rewards

ROYAL YORK CRESCENT

It’s one of the most prestigious rows in the city. Fancy owning a slice?

Words by Ursula Cole

Where to begin with Royal York Crescent? Let’s start with its muchvaunted reputation as the longest residential crescent in Europe.

Admittedly this fact is always delivered rather vaguely, it never seems conclusive. but we can say without fear of contradiction that it’s certainly the longest in Bristol.

It’s also one of the prettiest rows in Clifton, which is saying a lot given the hot competition in this classic Georgian enclave. It’s a magnet for visiting photographers, who simply adore crouching down in front of its red pillarbox to grab a classic shot for the ’gram.

Location-wise it’s impossible to beat, being in the heart of the Village with all its boujie independent shops, cafés and restaurants (for more of those see page 8). It’s an easy walk down to the harbour, though admittedly a slightly more punitive schlepp on the way back up. Need a more bucolic hit? Leigh Woods across the Suspension Bridge, the Downs and Ashton Court are all accessible.

Then there’s the history. Built during 1791-1820, the oldest part of the crescent is listed as Grade-II*, the ‘newer’ bit being Grade-II. It’s had its fair share of famous residents over the centuries, too; author Angela Carter lived at number 38 for most of the 1960s, and many of her books are avoured with the sights, smells and tastes of mid-20th-century Clifton.

It’s also one of Bristol’s priciest streets, with the vast majority of the buildings having been converted into apartments – still not cheap, mind – meaning that a whole town house here is a rarity. Indeed, number 30, the one with the lovely jade front door, is just one of two undivided houses. It’s been beautifully refurbished by its current owners to create an e ceptional family home, with fi tures and fittings presenting a checklist of top brand there are new Ripples bathrooms, shower rooms and cloakrooms; a Harvey Jones kitchen with a Lacanche range cooker; Corot limestone and Tozzetto tiles.

The approach feels pleasingly exclusive, as you walk along the The Promenade – the raised pedestrianised

walkway that, through a quirk of the site’s elevation, takes you to the front door, itself set back at the end of a private railed walkway.

Inside, it’s a very sizeable home. From the hallway the original balustraded staircase curves up to the top oors, while to the right doors open into the everyday heart of the home: the 18ft sitting room with its tall, shuttered twin sash windows, and the delightful kitchen/diner, serviced by a separate laundry at the back.

The first oor, in classic Georgian style, contains a suitably grand 23ft drawing room at the front, with triple sash windows opening to a canopied balcony. Linked by wedding doors to a dining room, the two rooms are unified in style by a matching pair of marble fireplaces; together they offer the most elegant space for entertaining. There’s a study at the back, which like the dining room overlooks the garden.

ive double bedrooms occupy the top two oor, three of them having their own bath or shower rooms; the master is particularly splendid with its Ripples bath and shower en-suite. There’s a sixth bedroom at lowerground level too, along with a games room, kitchen and bathroom – but of course the deployment of rooms is up to the owner. Typically for a house of this size and era, the entire lower oor has its own separate entrance, offering the potential of independent accommodation for guests, staff, relatives or even a small business. Should you choose to keep it all to yourself, it offers direct access to the Mediterranean-style front courtyard, covered garages/ workshops and the full-height basement rooms below.

The very private rear garden is another delight. Thoughtfully landscaped to provide year-round colour

and form, it’s walled on all sides, has deep planted borders and large architectural copper planters.

From a lovely breakfast terrace, a cobbled path meanders to the far end where a paved dining space catches much of the day’s sun; there’s also a charming reclaimed stone trough and water feature. A private entrance leads to a quiet, barely used back lane leading directly to Princess Victoria Street.

HOUSE NUMBERS

Where? Clifton Village

Guide price £3.25m

Bedrooms 6

Bath/shower rooms 5

Receptions 5

Anything else? Fabulous views

Outside Private rear garden, courtyard, canopied terrace

Call my agent Knight Frank 0117 317 1999 www.knightfrank.co.uk

Crescent dwellers also have the use of a communal garden stretching for almost the full length of the terrace – mostly lawned, with mature borders, specimen trees and informal outdoor dining tables, chairs and benches dotted throughout, it’s a beautifully quiet space in the heart of the Village, and one of the best communal gardens in the area, hosting residents-only events as well as opening up as part of the Clifton Open Garden Squares Weekend. Somehow, however, even these outdoor spaces pale in significance ne t to what must surely be the house’s most fabulous asset of all –that wonderful, canopied first- oor terrace, offering views for days, taking in the city below, the harbourside, South Bristol and the country hills beyond. Name us a better private location in the city for a sundowner; we’ll wait.

BACKWELL HOUSE – JUST 15 MINUTES DRIVE FROM

he main living accommodation is principally arranged over two floors and would ideally suit a growing family.

The ground floor provides 4 beautiful reception rooms plus conservatory and kitchen/utility around a stunning central staircase leading to the first floor which provides 7 ensuite bedrooms, each with beautiful views over the grounds.

The second floor currently provides a further 2 ensuite bedrooms, which could be readily adapted for other uses within this family home. The property

Burston Cook: Julian@burstoncook.co.uk

Tom@burstoncook.co.uk

0117 934 9977

Knight Frank

also benefits from a good sized basement, partially fitted out and ideal for a variety of ancillary uses.

The house is approached via a sweeping driveway and sits within approximately 13 acres, comprising front lawn, a rear private garden and surrounding paddocks. There is an outdoor swimming pool which can be readily recommissioned along with a former tennis court.

In addition, further outbuildings and three estate cottages can be purchased subject to separate negotiation.

robin.engley@knightfrank.com

sarah.ka.brown@knightfrank.com 0117 317 1996

BRISTOL & CLIFTON’S PREMIER COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AGENTS

Keep up-to-date with our latest news, deals, testimonials and market comment at our website: www.burstoncook.co.uk

Clothier Road, BS4

TO LET - £47,350 PAX

4,987 sq ft (463.29 sq m)

A well located industrial unit benefitting from car parking to the front and yard space to the rear. The unit also benefits from office accommodation with welfare facilities.

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.

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.

Whitefriars, BS1 TO LET – £17.50 psf

5,554 sq ft (515.97 sq m)

Providing modern, yet affordable office accommodation, which is fully fitted with meeting rooms, a/c and large break out area/ kitchen and an onsite gym and coffee shop!

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.

Park Street Avenue, BS1 TO LET - Quoting £40,000 pax

1,106 sq ft (102.75 sq m)

An exceptional venue located just off Park Street spread over ground, basement and mezzanine. The premises benefits from late night licensing and is a proven trading location.

East Street, Bedminster TO LET – POA

4,025 sq ft (373.93 sq m)

Large retail unit to let, with strong passing footfall on East Street. Class E-suitable for a variety of commercial uses.

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.

Berkeley Square, BS8 FOR SALE – POA

4,015 sq ft (372.99 sq m)

A fabulous opportunity to create a magnificent family home in the upper terrace of Clifton’s renowned Berkeley Square, with ample parking. Suits investors seeking to benefit from high levels of income currently produced within the property.

Coronation Road, BS3

REDUCED SALE PRICE

10,713 sq ft (995.26 sq m)

An impressive, detached freehold building prominently located and providing open-plan accommodation with excellent on-site car parking. The property could be suitable for a range of uses STP.

ROSEANNA ANDERSON & JOSHUA BEN-TOVIM

At the renovated Mount Without, the co-founders of Impermanence have created a new home for dance

Once nomadic, Josh and Roseanna’s dance company Impermanence now has its own bricks-and-mortar home, at the beautifully refurbished The Mount Without.

Josh and Roseanna have spent the last five years transforming the historic church, along with Norman outledge, who renovated the building, and Michele Midwinter, who runs the events business. Here, they plan to welcome touring dance shows along with staging their own productions, along with

community events, while trying to revive what’s been lost in Bristol’s dance scene over the past decade.

How did you originally meet? We met while training at the Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance. We were paired for the classical ballet partnering class (pas de deu ) because we’re both tall, and we’ve been dancing together ever since.

How did you first get into dance?

Roseanna: I grew up in Australia and started dancing when I was two – my older sisters went to ballet classes and I watched from

the door. I was so desperate to join in that they let me start si months early. I moved to Germany by myself when I was 15 to study dance, and then to the UK the year after.

Josh: I went to a comprehensive school in She eld, where a dance studio was suddenly built, and dance lessons popped up. aving lots of Alike symptoms I gravitated to it instantly, the relief of somewhere to move around and be creative was into icating. I think it’s such a shame that so many schools have lost their dance departments recently.

“People gasp when they come into The Mount Without for the first time”

What was the first dance you remember seeing?

R: I remember going to see a Russian ballet company do Swan Lake in my home town. It was so completely mesmerising, I was completely swept up in the music. I also remember watching the film Priscilla Queen of the Desert and thinking, that looks fun

Can you sum up your style of dance?

It’s a mi of contemporary dance, mime, ballet, lip-syncing and cabaret. Our work often draws on historical source materials such as paintings, books, photographs or poems.

Who have been your biggest creative inspirations?

Pina Bausch, Tracy Chapman, Crystal Pite, David Bowie, Bertolt Brecht, Frederick Chopin, Franz Schubert, Jasmina Cibic, Sylvia Plath, Jean-Michel Basquait.

How and when did you form Impermanence, and why did you give it that name?

We formed Impermanence in 2011, as a group of graduates from the Rambert School who wanted to e periment with creating a company where the dancers were also the choreographers. We called it Impermanence because of the ephemeral nature of live performance.

BRISTOL LIVES

What are the company’s main aims for The Mount Without?

We want to turn it into an internationally recognised centre for dance. We also want to create loads more great shows and support the artists we love.

As well as your stage work we think there have been some film projects too?

Yes, that’s right. We made our first film in 2018, based on a pacifist satire of World War I. This led to a BBC commission to make Blast, a short film based on an obscure group of artists 100 years ago. We’ve since been commissioned by Birmingham Royal Ballet to create Empty Stage, a love letter to the arts industry workers during lockdown, and the London Symphony Orchestra to create Feral, adapting environmentalist George onbiot’s book. We hope to make a feature film at some point in the not-too-distant future, too.

Tell us all about The Mount Without – what makes it so special?

It’s ust one of the most beautiful buildings in Bristol people still gasp when they come in for the first time. Norman has restored the building so sensitively and it’s ust situated on this very special corner of the city, an auspicious crossroads. And now we have our theatre in there, the future feels really exciting.

It’s a multi-purpose venue, so presumably you need to move chairs and the stage when you’re not performing?

Yes, that’s right; it’s a really clever design. Whenever the space is needed for weddings or other events we can pack away the seating bank, chairs and stage into one corner of the building –it’s like real-life Tetris.

What are you working on right now?

We’re making a new show, Venus 2.0 which tells the true story of suffragette-turned-fascist ary Richardson. We’re taking that up to the dinburgh estival ringe

“The Bristol dance sector is historically under-resourced”

PHOTO B STEVE RUSSELL

and then on a national tour in the autumn.

Tell us a bit about your community programme

Every month we run our social club. It’s a lunchtime cabaret for older people, aimed at combating isolation and loneliness. We make sandwiches for everyone, hand out a glass of prosecco and book some really fun performers. People love it, and so do we.

We’re going to be starting lots more classes in 202 , and also offering more platforms for emerging artists.

How healthy is the Bristol dance scene, and what are your ambitions for it?

The Bristol dance sector is historically under-resourced. There are lots of brilliant people here but the city ust hasn’t had the funding or the infrastructure to make good on that.

We’re trying to lay down a regular pulse of programming, putting on a different show each month, and we believe The ount Without can become a really special part of the national dance ecology.

Where do you live, and what’s great about your neighbourhood?

We live on St Michael’s Hill, which we love. The incredible views of Bristol, the magical University gardens, the Christmas Steps Arts Quarter, and ust being right in the heart of the city.

Share a few favourite places ost orizon for a boogie. The Open Arms for a drink. Cedar press for some food. The Cube for a film.

As well as the obvious, do you have any other secret skills?

J: I’m actually a very good whistler!

And what’s your most regrettable habit?

R: Consistently being over optimistic about how quickly I can get somewhere.

Confess a guilty pleasure

R: ar too much chocolate.

J: I’ll second that.

For more: www.impermanence.co.uk

PHOTO BY CRIS PUGH