Bristol Life – Issue 373

Kings of the road

Honest admission? When I check my features list and see an area feature looming my heart tends to sink a bit. It always seems an insanely ambitious undertaking. How do you get under the skin of an entire Bristol postcode in just a few pages? Who to include, and who to leave out?

But when I get motoring on said features, they often end up being my favourites of the year. Obviously you can’t speak to everyone, but choose a few key people who’ve been on the scene for decades and it all rapidly comes together. And I learn new stuff Some of it makes its way into the feature, though a lot of it gets left out because I don’t want to get into trouble.

This time the focus is on Whiteladies Road, which seems to get better every time I write about it. To be honest, when we first launched this magazine in 2004 the bar wasn’t set stratospherically high, but all the cool new openings of recent years have turned the street once dismissively known as The Strip’ into one of our best shopping and dining destinations. And that’s even before you dive up Cotham Hill, now quite the little European café quarter, or nearby Chandos Road, whose food offering is becoming frankly ridiculous, in the best way.

Our cover stars this issue are Dom and Ben from Pazzo, who, blushing prettily, would like me to point out that the ‘Kings of the Road’ headline also embraces the many other local legends who make the area what it is today. Thought I’d better clear that up.

Speaking of all-stars, did you make it down to Bristol Seafood Week I did, and wanted to share my thoughts so you’d be all set when it returns next year. Review on page 44.

There’s plenty more good stuff inside too Charles azlewood of Paraorchestra Fran Lebowitz Not one, but two features on St Paul’s Carnival but as ever I’m cruelly curtailed by the wordcount and have run out of space. Enjoy the fag end of summer, and rejoice, for another blinding Bristol autumn is heading your way.

DERI ROBINS

Bristol Life editor

@BristolLifeMag

Issue 373 / August 2025

ON THE COVER Ben Harvey and Dom Borel of Pazzo; photo @joncraig_photos

STREET LIFE

12 STREET LIFE How ‘The Strip’ grew up, and why we all love Cotham city

ARTS

29 ART PAGE We’re finding the idea of ultimate New Yorker Fran Lebowitz in Bristol slightly surreal, but in a great way

30 WHAT’S ON It’s the pre-autumn lull

34 BRISTOL HEROES Paul’s for thought

38 BOOKS The heat’s been making everyone slightly unhinged

40 BENCHMARKS ... But luckily there are places like these in which to cool off and calm down

FOOD & FESTS

44 RESTAURANT We make that ‘like a travel review of Brigadoon’ gag again, in case you missed it the first time around. Anyway, it’s about Seafood Week

46 FOOD & DRINK We had a bit of catching up to do

53 CAFÉ SOCIETY Starlings, darling

55 WINE The names of the rosés

LIFESTYLE

56 JEWELLERY Bling it on

62 INTERIORS See inside the designers’ house

65 HEALTH & BEAUTY Pilates: not as gruelling as you might think

NETWORK

71 BUSINESS NEWS The business end of St Paul’s Carnival, and other stories

PROPERTY

82 SHOWCASE Tying in with page 12, we’re in Cotham

REGULARS

8 SPOTLIGHT

90 BRISTOL LIVES Charles Hazlewood

Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Colin Moody, Stan Cullimore, Storysmith Books, Charlie Taylor, Andy Hamilton, Bobbi Carsley 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 both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk

Jayde and Will; now that’s a joint aftershow party we’d be keen to attend

Christmas (you heard) PANTO WARS

Unless you’re minted and/or have an insatiable appetite for panto you probably only take the family to one show at Bristmas. This year, however, casting news from a couple of our major theatres may make you consider saving up for two. At Bristol Old Vic, local treasure Jayde Adams will lead a new musical based (appropriately) on Treasure Island the first time she’ll professionally tread the boards as an actor. “After years of banging on its doors, Bristol Old Vic has finally let me on stage”, she says. “I couldn’t be prouder that my debut is happening at a theatre I’ve loved my whole life. I’ve been staring at that building since I could walk, and now I get to perform in it. Stand-up always felt like a stepping stone to my real goal acting on stage. And now I’m in Treasure Island – give me a parrot and a pirate ship too? All my Christmases have come at once.”

But hang on, who’s this over at the ippodrome Costarring with EastEnders’ Charlie Brooks, it’s only Will Young, making his panto debut in Jack and the Beanstalk as The Spirit of the Beans! (Evergreen ones, presumably.) Amazingly, it’s 23 years since Will won the first season of Pop Idol, back when the concept still seemed fresh. It was famously a close-run victory over fellow finalist areth ates, who as fate would have it, just happens to be starring in Cinderella this year, down the road in Weston at The Playhouse.

New reality show idea pitch: singing competition, prize being a place in regional panto 20 years on.

Charity THE BLEAT GOES ON

Want to feel old Shaggy superstar Shaun the Sheep turns 30 this year, and to mark the milestone Aardman Animations has joined up (purl 1, plain 1) with British Wool, Campaign for Wool and Craft Forward to unveil ‘Can Ewe nit It ’; an initiative calling out fans and craft enthusiasts to submit a woolly creation for charity.

Bristol’s knitters, weavers, crocheters and all other woolly creatives are invited to get involved by crafting a 20x20cm Shaun-inspired s uare. At a public event hosted by Craft Forward in October, the s uares will be sewn together to create blankets for an unhoused person, bringing warmth and cheer to some of the most vulnerable in society.

“Shaun is a global and cultural icon, but he’s Bristol born and bred”, says Aardman. “To mark his 30th birthday we want to use his fame for good and connect the craft and innovation of our studio to the incredible organisations that use craft to uplift communities.

“Fans worldwide have produced incredible artworks and crafted creations featuring Shaun since he first appeared on our screens now we’re putting a Bristol bleat out asking the city’s craft enthusiasts to flock together, and join our global act of woolly kindness and creativity.”

To take part, download a s uare pattern at www.aard.mn CanEwe nitIt or design your own . Use real wool where possible to support UK sheep farmers. Post your 20x20 cm s uare to Craft Forward, 3 Space International ouse, Canterbury Crescent, London, SW by 30 September 2025. Share your creations using #CanEweKnitIt and tag @aardmananimations

For more: www.bristololdvic.org.uk; www.atgtickets.com

• Shaun the Sheep has won two BAFTA awards and an Emmy, and was voted the nation’s best loved BBC children’s TV character in a poll by the Radio Times

• IRL his model weighs just 100g and stands at 17cm tall.

• Bristol clay artists have used over 500 eyeballs, 300kg of clay and 10km of wire to keep Shaun’s stardom alive for three decades, creating 2000 mouth shapes for a flock of over 140 sheep, where just three seconds of animation is

THERE GOES THE

NEIGHBOURHOOD

Whiteladies Road has shaken off its reputation as ‘The Strip’ in favour of something more grown-up and genteel. Meanwhile, Cotham Hill seems to have quietly turned into a little European café quarter of its own . . . Let’s meet some of the folk who have made the changes happen

Words

by

Deri Robins

Pics pages 14-17 by @joncraig_photos

“Whiteladies may still rhyme with hades, but its hard-partying image has been replaced with something more sophisticated”

OPPOISTE: Dom Borel waits for cousin Ben to join him for our cover shoot; THISPAGE: That’s Nathan. He does the fit-out for Season + Taste, which occasionaly involves relocating trees

Few people call Whiteladies Road ‘The Strip’ these days. It’s been a while since it was known as Bristol’s ‘leisure mile’; a string of lurid superbars pulsating with Ministry of Sound remixes, packed wall-to-wall with stags dressed as chipolatas. A good time guaranteed, as long as you stayed home.

Today Whiteladies might still rhyme with hades, but its hedonistic, hard-partying image has been replaced with something a little more sophisticated. The street has got down with the Bristol zeitgeist; displays of organic produce now beckon the source-conscious into Ruby & White, Wild Oats and Better Food. The aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries mingles seductively with serious-minded coffee at caf s that worship the bean. Upmarket interiors shops rub shoulders with some of the city’s best restaurants.

And that’s even before you mosey up the side roads. On the eastern side alone there’s the mighty Cotham Hill; further up towards the Downs, Ashgrove Road leads into Chandos Road, a small backstreet improbably rich in award-winning dining destinations.

So, let’s take a tour of the manor. First up; Whiteladies. It’s a hot midweek in August, and we’ve just spent the morning traipsing up and down the street, with plans to explore its tributaries during the afternoon.

We break for lunch at Pazzo. Not just because we know that even if we put up a feeble protest, Dom Borel will feed us; it’s also because few people can offer a more comprehensive take on how this area has changed over the years than Dom and his cousin Ben Harvey.

BELOW

“It feelsreally as if the street is in the middle of a revival right now”

ABOVE: What’s not to love about Tapps? Sustainably sourced wines, creative small plates, and a soundtrack of vinyl classics

: Team FED on Abbotsford Road, just off Cotham, Hill. The coffee’s great, the cakes and pastries are beyond tempting, and the staff are smiley

ASK A LOCAL

So where are the most popular spots to eat, drink, shop and visit?

“We particularly love Pazzo and Bosco for food; plus Oskar Furniture, and the Everyman cinema” –Catrin, Papadeli

“The Clyde pub is a bit of a hidden spot – locals only, and where you’ll find us after service or days off. The landlady Maz is a true local legend” –George, Bulrush

Dom and Ben, who also own Bianchis trattoria in Montpelier, and Cotto and Pasta Ripiena in Old Street, have been on the Bristol scene since they were kids, growing up in the multi-ethnic St Werburgh’s area. They both did a fair bit of cheffy international travelling before returning to the city to open the instantly popular and feted Pasta Loco on Cotham Hill in 2016. They closed Loco in 2023, opening Pazzo on the old Bar Humbug site on Whiteladies Road soon after.

All their venues, says Dom, tap into the cousins’ personal memories of growing up in Bristol; that’s why they have yet to be tempted to join the foodie hub at the very-new-build Wapping Wharf.

“Pasta Loco was a great re-introduction to the area for us, because these roads have been quite famous for their hospitality. Ben had spent a lot of his working life here, working with Simon at Papadeli over the road, and Barney Haughton at what was Quartier Vert.

“So there’s a lot of history from us being young and running around the area, causing a bit of trouble, as young Bristolians did. But it was also a great introduction to hospitality, with this road being so lively. It had a great mixture of people, really. You had the more rough and rugged and artsy crew walking up from Montpelier, and then you had a little bit of the well-established crowd reaching over from Clifton, and Whiteladies Road was almost like the frontier of different sides of life, meeting over the table and breaking bread.

“It’s this vein which runs from the centre of Bristol all the way up to a beautiful green place leading to the Suspension Bridge. So you get people on a journey, going down for the action or going out for some fresh air, and we’re like a watering hole in the middle of it.

“It’s nice to come back and help Whiteladies Road reinvent itself after, I guess, a little bit of a war zone after Covid and Brexit and multiple closures on the road. Now there’s new life being breathed into it, with places like Condesa and Tapps in the same row as us.

“I think it has changed, a bit. Back in the day, although you did have places like Quartier Vert and whatnot, it was more of a late-night spot. The Redcliffe boys used to come up here, to places like Henry Africas, for a bit of the student party leading into the early hours of the morning – and where we now have Pazzo used to be the infamous Bar Humbug, which so many people have got incredible naughty stories from – our friends Dave and Tom from Team Love started out here together as well.

“So, it’s kind of come full circle. We’re older restaurateurs now; even our last development of the Pazzo menu circles back to traditional Italian food. We love old-school restaurants like La Campagnola because the menu is pretty much always the same; they’ve perfected what they do, and it’s just all delicious, fantastic stuff. And we think this is a kind of safe bet; you know, if it’s not broke, don’t fix it.”

“I love the concept of Tapps – the focus on music as well as sustainability. We have a great relationship with Kieran and Imo at Condesa, and we’ve known Simon at Papadeli for over 20 years” –Dom, Pazzo

“We love Spicer+Cole! They’re based in the RWA building, serving hot and cold drinks, pastries and lunch. The perfect place to meet before heading into the exhibitions” –Sarah, RWA

“Barista coffee from local independents helps to fuel our law firm. We are also really lucky to have fresh fish from Spiny Lobster, and butcher’s meat and cheese from Ruby & White on our doorstep” – Grant, AMD

ABOVE: Vegans look away now; Cappodocia, famed (though not exclusively) for its grilled meats, has opened next to top butchers Ruby & White

ASK A LOCAL

“If I need an outfit for a special occasion, I go to Rag Trade on Cotham Hill. They have a great selection of carefully curated pre-loved dresses. Knowing I’m not buying this season’s latest fashion means I’m unlikely to have a ‘same dress as someone else at the wedding’!

“I’m biased, but we opened Condesa round the corner on Whiteladies Road last year, and a guest IPA and chicken wings on the terrace is my afterwork go-to.

“I love being opposite the cinema. After years of sitting empty, Everyman have done such an excellent job with the building; it really feels like the area is in the middle of a revival right now.

“Having Ruby & White just across the road is lovely; it’s so great to have them cut something especially for you, or order in something unusual. They often join us for an after-work beer on the terrace” – Imogen, Bravas and Condesa

“We’re big fans of Papadeli, cocktail bar HMSS, and Low and Slow. It’s a great mix of independent businesses that really add flavour to the area, quite literally” –Rob, Kutchenhaus

“Spiny Lobster, Better Food, Bosco, Studio 74 gallery, Viet Kitchen” –Mel, The Met

“Papadeli, Pizzarova, Bravas, Estrella, and the Vittoria Pub – Neil, 212 Productions

“Our go-to for food is always Bravas, although Mangosteen hits the spot as well! I love looking in Rag Trade for a hidden gem and then heading across for an ice cream in Panunzio’s” –Olivia, Tapps

SO, WHAT MAKES THE AREA SPECIAL?

Having established tapas bar Bravas on Cotham Hill 13 years ago, Imogen and Kieran Waite of the Season + Taste group opened Mexican restaurant Condesa on Whiteladies Road in 2024 – part of a tasty enclave that also includes near-neighbours Tapps and Pazzo.

“This strip of Whiteladies Road is pretty iconic in the Bristol hospitality scene, and it’s been great to see it come back to life over the last few years” says Imogen. “The terraces out front are the best place to be for peoplewatching on a sunny afternoon.”

“The area appeals to people of all stages of their lives”, says Grant McCall of AMD Solicitors. “We have everything from the Downs to the restaurants, the Farmer’s Market, the gyms, the churches, the libraries, the bars and the shopping options.”

Among those flagging up the sense of community and creative spirit is Rob Cash from Kutchenhaus. “This neighbourhood is so full of energy”, he says. “There’s always something new to discover, whether it’s local art, great food spots, or simply the friendly faces that make the area feel so welcoming. It’s a place that’s constantly evolving while keeping a strong sense of character.”

Melanie Hancock from The Metropolitan feels the road has a “wonderful mix of students, families and retired folk”, and “though part of the wider city it retains a special village-like quality”.

“Locals are friendly, and there’s a strong sense of camaraderie among the businesses, creating a supportive and uplifting environment”, says Neil Roberts of 212 Productions and the Art Academy.

Everyone seems to love the newly opened Tapps, at which many wines are available on (you guessed it) tap and DJs bring the tunes from the vinyl booth; it’s also blessed with a beautiful sun trap garden out the back as well as the front terrace. Co-owner Olivia Greenwood praises “The brilliant independent businesses and the

ABOVE: Stick us down for Total Eclipse of the Heart at the Whitmore Tap bandeoke BELOW: This friendly little dude insisted on showing us his toy

European vibes in the summer, with all the outdoor seating. Cotham Hill on a busy sunny afternoon is great, but I’m also excited that where we sit on Whiteladies Road is buzzing again, with the rank of restaurants filled after many years of ups and downs.”

The Strip (sorry, old habits) has also become a mecca for the interiors-conscious. Charlie Sullivan from Tom Howley describes it as “A unique blend of creativity and community, which we’re proud to be part of.

“Here, beautiful period architecture meets a vibrant mix of independents, interior inspiration and standout food spots. What makes it truly special is its balance: it’s full of life and character, yet welcoming and easy to explore. For anyone looking to enhance their home, it’s an ideal destination – along with interiors businesses like ours, there are beautifully curated lifestyle stores and other independents.

“There’s a lovely pace and atmosphere to the street –you can spend the day browsing shops, meeting friends for lunch or picking up ingredients for something special. The street always feels lively but never overwhelming.

“We also love how accessible it is; Clifton Down train station is just around the corner, so even if you’re not driving, it’s incredibly easy to reach. It really is a place you can come to enjoy at your own pace, whether you’re visiting one of the brilliant local businesses or simply soaking up the local atmosphere. We love being part of a community which clearly values design, craft and creativity; it makes conversations in our showroom all the more inspiring.”

“Whiteladies Road has held onto its character beautifully while quietly evolving – we’ve seen a

MICHELIN CENTRAL

Cotham Hill (page 21) has a community feel like no other, but when it comes to the restaurant offering it has serious competition from Chandos Road. Here you’ll find Jan Ostle and Mary Wilson’s glorious Wilson’s, currently holding a Michelin and a Green Michelin star; Little Hollows pasta, with its new Michelin Bib Gourmand; cosy Italian restaurant and wine bar Snobby’s, and Spanish tapas bar Picaro.

One stellar arrival has been Korean restaurant Dongnae. Like Wilson’s across the street, it’s run by a husband and wife team, Duncan Robertson and Kyu Jeong Jeon. It opened last autumn, and as confidently predicted in this magazine it’s already been awarded a Bib, as well as being listed in numerous national ‘best of’ lists (see page 46).

“‘Dongnae’ means ‘neighbourhood’ in Korean”, they say. “The concept is based on the modern style of gastronomic Korean cuisine that’s currently popular in Seoul, but it’s also heavily inspired by the area, which has that genuine neighbourhood feeling – friendly, supportive, inclusive, and just a nice place to spend time in. We’ve been so welcomed here since we opened almost a year ago. We couldn’t have asked for a better street, and it helps that there’s so much other talent around – it definitely seems to be a bonus, we all focus on collaboration over competition.”

ASK A LOCAL

“Bravas is a firm favourite for incredible tapas in a relaxed setting, and Papadeli is a local gem – part deli, part cookery school. The Spiny Lobster is fantastic for fresh seafood, Better Food is great for organic groceries. while for everyday bits and bobs we often pop into Cotham Hardware” –Charlie, Tom Howley

“We love being neighbours with The Barre Fitness Studio, Bristol Artisan, and the Sally Ann charity shop” –Laura, Wild Oats

“A firm favourite of ours is The Metropolitan, right next to the gallery. We’re always in there for lunch: the best coffee and fantastic food, something we can never get enough of. After our late-night gallery shows we always take our artists there for a delicious and cosy meal” – Ellena, Studio 74

“We all focus on collaboration over competition”

“Rubicon Too does the best breakfast and all the staff are so lovely and efficient; it never lets you down. Bowl Shed is the best spot for acai bowls and smoothies to keep you going. Sean has been in business for years and his product just keeps getting better” –Mols, The Whitmore Tap

“Wilson’s. Possibly a biased choice, since Jan and Mary are friends and neighbours, but there’s a reason why everyone recommends them, and why they have a Michelin star and Michelin green star. The whole restaurant is imbued with passion and warmth, you’re just made to feel so welcome

“The Kensington Arms is a great pub and chophouse around the corner from Dongnae. It’s run by Josh Eggleton, which means you can trust there’s going to be good produce and sustainably sourced meat coming through the kitchen” –Kyu and Duncan, Dongnae

ABOVE: George Livesey at Bulrush: no Cotham tree, flower or bush is safe from his foraging; BELOW: Dongnae: we’re not sure what the green thing is – cabbage? A fish? - but we’re definitely intrigued

PHOTO BY DAVE WATTS

PHOTO BY BEN PRYOR

STREET LIFE

real return to thoughtful, curated retail experiences. While high streets everywhere face pressure from the competition of online shopping, there’s something enduring and important about being able to see and touch quality, especially with interiors. That’s part of what makes this street so special it still offers that in-person experience, with real people and passionate experts behind each business.”

“Over the past few years, the area has become noticeably more connected and upmarket, with a real shift towards supporting independent businesses and creating unique, experience-led destinations”, says Rob at Kutchenhaus. “It’s great to see a growing focus on quality, creativity, and community-driven retail that makes the neighbourhood feel both modern and personal.”

Many locals have enthused to us over the opening of new Whiteladies gallery Studio 74 (no clues as to its address). Owner Ellena Norman says she loves all the qualities we’ve mentioned above, describing the area rather charmingly as “a neighbourhood with a sunny disposition”.

WHAT’S CHANGED RECENTLY?

It’s hard to find anyone who’s not a fan of the pedestrianisation of Cotham Hill.

“It’s been an incredible change. It’s now a destination; you can get everything you need, you can eat at some of Bristol’s best restaurants, drink cocktails, craft beers and coffees, eat the best ice-cream - and obviously have your hair done at Hair at 58” – Sam, Hair at 58

“It’s been transformational. It’s something we fought very hard for. Seeing it now, busy and thriving with people, makes me so happy. This is how cities should be: people, community, and connection at the centre, with cars not always being given priority” – Imogen, Bravas

...AND WHAT WOULD MAKE THE AREA EVEN BETTER?

“I don’t think anything could make Cotham Hill better, it’s perfect as it is… oh... apart from a cheese and wine deli! That would top it off! –Sam Bell, Hair at 58

“More community-led events, a design festival, or seasonal pop-ups would be a lovely addition – a way to bring together the neighbourhood’s diverse mix of businesses and encourage even more people to explore the street on foot –Charlie Sullivan, Tom Howley

“Believe or not, more restaurants! It’s great when other places open and bring more people to these parts” – George Livesey, Bulrush

“I would love to see a few places open a little later, bringing back some of the nightlife feel to Whiteladies” – Mols, The Whitmore Tap

“A Korean deli!” – Kyu and Duncan, Dongnae

Take one sip of fino every time someone says, “We could be in Andalucia!” at Bravas, and you’ll be under the table in no time

PHOTO BY BRAVAS

THE FOLK ON THE HILL

It’s impossible to talk about Whiteladies Road without including its long, winding and fiercely independent neighbour, Cotham Hill.

“We fell in love with Cotham Hill years before we opened Bravas, and knew it was where we wanted to be”, says Imogen Waite. “We used to run around the area peering into empty shops and restaurants, looking for the ideal site. Cotham Hill has a magical combination of lovely local businesses and the best group of regulars.

“Bravas wouldn’t be Bravas without them; it’s the people who make Cotham Hill what it is. Knowing so many of the other business owners, who are all small independent operators, makes it a wonderful place to be. There have been so many moments of connection over the years that come from being in a place like Cotham Hill, where people have made their lives; whether living or working, it’s great seeing the same faces every day.”

Especially when you’ve known your neighbours for well over a decade. Bravas has been here for 13 years, while Sam Bell’s hair

salon Hair at 58 has been open for nearly 16. Sam says she feels the hill is Bristol at its best.

“It’s made up of only independent business, real people putting their heart and soul and everything they have into whatever they have; the sense of support for their neighbours is inspiring. Walking down the hill is like taking a stroll when you’re abroad, it’s got the best vibe, yet does it in true Bristol style.“

Cotham Hill meanders into Cotham Road, which is where you’ll find George Livesey’s immaculate Bulrush – until very recently, the last remaining Bristol restaurant to hold a Michelin star. “It’s such a leafy area, full of trees”, says George. “We can even forage from our road. We pick magnolia leaves from just outside the restaurant and pickle them. One time we even asked the church for rose petals from their garden – we turned them into a light vinegar which we served with plump scallops.”As you do.

Unlike Whiteladies, George feels Cotham hasn’t changed too much – “It’s stayed quite consistent over the years. Perhaps that’s why we’re still here, ten years on.”

My dealings with Howard and his team has been nothing but positive. They rented my flat with ease and made sure everything ran smoothly. The Lettings Team were just excellent. They are professional, friendly, great at their jobs, genuinely helpful and easy to deal with. I wouldn’t use anyone else.

- Bex

Howard’s Estate Agents are by far the best agency I’ve ever worked with. They have fully managed my rental property for 3 years and I’ve never had any time without a tenant. They have always listened to me and been responsive to anything that has been needed. Absolutely the best agency for landlords.

- Miss NC

I’d have no hesitation in recommending Howard Estate Agent. The Sales Team provided exemplary service from start to finish. They were pro-active, communicative, helpful and friendly and were instrumental in securing our sale. Really glad to have used Howard Estate Agents - these guys are helping to give estate agents a good name, well done.

- Miss H

Really good and personal approach to all aspects of the property market. Recently sold my flat, that they had previously rented for me. The teams’ approach takes the stress out of the whole process. Genuinely care about what they do. I’d highly recommend them in their new endeavour.

- John

WHAT NEW PLACES HAVE CAUGHT YOUR EYE?

“I’ve heard great things about Cappadocia and their grilled meats” –Dom, Pazzo

“Condesa – who wouldn’t be excited about what these guys are doing? Perfect for a margarita after a shift, or a gorgeous dinner out” – Mols, The Whitmore Tap

“It’s been very exciting recently – we’ve welcomed Condesa, Tapps, Oddshop – and it’s great to see a new art gallery open in Studio 74, we could do with more of those” – Catrin, Papadeli

“We’ve noticed a wave of new coffee shops and independent interiors boutiques opening up over the past few years; they bring fresh energy to the area and offer some great inspiration when it comes to kitchen styling and finishes. It’s exciting to be surrounded by businesses which celebrate design, detail, and a love for beautiful spaces” –Rob, Kutchenhaus

“Panunzio’s Gelato, BristoL’éclair” –Mel, The Metropolitan

“Tapps – if you haven’t been yet, I’d highly recommend a visit” –Sam, Hair at 58

“Dongnae on Chandos Road, and Condesa on Whiteladies Road – some great things coming out of both kitchens” – George, Bulrush

“Our latest favourite is Table 5— it’s a fantastic addition to the neighbourhood. We can even catch the delicious aromas drifting into our studio… It’s both a blessing and a daily temptation” – Neil, 212 Productions

“The Viet Kitchen does great food, and served us well when we were doing our re-fit” – Olivia, Tapps

“The Whiteladies Road Farmers’ Market, while not new, continues to be a fresh highlight on the local calendar –it brings a lovely crowd to the area each week” – Charlie,Tom Howley

“The buzz around new fitness and wellness spots has been great – it complements what we do and shows people are prioritising their health more than ever” – Laura, Wild Oats

“We’ve been hearing good things about Hilda’s Bakery that pops up on Whiteladies Road. Bristol has so many great bakeries that we need to suss out if it’s a contender for our favourite, Farro” – Kyu and Duncan, Dongnae

ABOVE: The force of nature that is Sam Bell at Hair at 58. I wasn’t permitted to leave the salon before she’d tidied my fringe

BELOW: Sean Martin and crew in the Condesa kitchen. Hospitality may be tough, but it’s possibly more fun than The Bear would have you believe

FUN FACTS

OK, locals, tell us something we didn’t already know

“Our upstairs client conference room has a wall mural of Whiteladies Road from the 1940s, showing how our office looked with the tram system, horse and cart, long before Clifton Down Shopping Centre” –Grant, AMD

“We have a secret roof terrace out the back of Bravas, which is an absolute sun trap. We grow loads of different herbs up there that you’ll see featured on our menu.

“I have a secret ambition to guerrilla-garden the strip down the middle of Whiteladies Road. One of these days I’m going to sneak out in the dead of night and plant it up with flowers” – Imogen, Bravas and Condesa

“We also own The Downs Cafe!” –Mel, The Met

“Cotham Hill has important ley lines which run straight down the middle. I think this is what gives us our magic and sense of special” – Sam, Hair at 58

“We’re proud to be the only printing company in the area open at midnight (by appointment). We also have a retro arcade machine in our studio with over 1000 classic games for restless customers waiting for prints. And here’s a local tip: when

MEET THE LOCALS

A snapshot of the local businesses who kindly contributed to this feature; see their websites for more

ON WHITELADIES ROAD

AMD Solicitors: Independent fullservice law firm, offering specialist legal advice; www.amdsolicitors.com

Condesa: Elevated Mexican food and drink in a super-sexy interior; www.condesabristol.co.uk

Kutchenhaus: Precisionengineered German kitchens designed and installed from the independent Bristol showroom; www.uk.kutchenhaus.com

The Metropolitan: Independent family-owned restaurant; www.metropolitanbristol.com

you grab one of Papadeli’s amazing salad boxes, ask nicely and you can mix three different options from their incredible selection – it’s a gamechanger!” – Neil, 212 Productions

“BBC’s Mistresses was filmed at Papadeli – the fictional deli owner and one of the main characters got amorous in the upstairs kitchen. It was about 15 years ago but people still remember the episode” – Catrin, Papadeli

“The building we’re in used to be a greengrocer – one of our main dining areas was the cheese room, with thick stone walls to keep the temperature cool. The place is a bit awkwardly shaped for a restaurant, but I like to think that’s part of its charm. Just before Bulrush, it was a brilliant restaurant called Juniper by Stephen Markwick” –George Livesey, Bulrush

“Our pub used to be a bank, and there are a few vault doors and safes that we can’t open – who knows what might be in there! We have recently had dart boards (Flight Club-style) installed in our upstairs games/dining room, making it ideal for a cosy date night or party booking. We do a cracking Sunday roast, have a personalised Bloody Mary station and show a lot of sports – what more could you want from a pub on a Sunday?” –

Mols, The Whitmore Tap

Papadeli: Deli and caterer with a top-floor cookery school; www.papadeli.co.uk

Pazzo: Buzzing restaurant with a kitchen led by Italian cuisine; www.pazzobristol.co.uk

RWA (Queen’s Road): Bristol’s oldest art gallery, bringing exceptional world-class historical and contemporary art; www.rwa.org.uk

Studio 74 Gallery: Representing artists from around the world, including solo shows; www. studio74contemporaryart.com

Tapps: Bar serving wine on tap and small plates; www.tappswinebar.co.uk

Tom Howley: Dream kitchens brought to life through bespoke

design, British craftsmanship and a personal approach; www.tomhowley.co.uk

Wild Oats: Bristol’s original health food store, offering wholefoods, natural remedies and advice since 1981; www.woats.co.uk

212 Productions: Specialists in high-quality giclée prints and framing, with art academy Back to the Drawing Board; www.212productions.co.uk

The Whitmore Tap: Local pub championing women’s sports, with great bar food and its own run club; www.butcombe.com

ON COTHAM HILL & ROAD

Bravas: Authentic Spanish tapas restaurant inspired by the backstreet bars of Andalucía; www.bravas.co.uk

Bulrush: Michelin-starred restaurant serving seasonal tasting menus in a cosy setting, using produce from chefproprietor George Livesey’s family farm and the best ingredients they can source; www.bulrushrestaurant.co.uk

Hair at 58: A multi-award-winning Aveda concept hair salon on Cotham Hill, celebrating its 16th birthday in September; www.hairat58.co.uk

ON CHANDOS ROAD

Dongnae Restaurant: Modern yet authentic Korean food, cooked the way it’s actually cooked in Korea, showcasing lesser-known flavours and techniques; www.dongnae.co.uk

A vibrantly dressed Ellena Norman awaits the latest visiting artist at Studio 74

PHOTO BY STUDIO 74

LUNCH FOR £19

2 small plates and a glass of wine. Wednesday - Friday, 12 until 2.30pm

Tapps Wine Bar | 87 Whiteladies Rd | BS8 2NT Follow us on instagram - tappswinebarandkitchen www.tappswinebar.co.uk | info@tappswinebar.co.uk

Our kitchen is led by Italian cuisine whilst influenced by the many cultures that have settled here in our brilliantly diverse city of Bristol, our chefs create menus with a freedom to express a multitude of flavours. PAZZO BY NAME, PAZZO BY NATURE

Pazzo 89 Whiteladies Rd BS8 2NT 0117 973 3000 hello@pazzobristol.co.uk @pazzobybianchis www.pazzobristol.co.uk

Reach the best in the west

Affluent, active and influential and just a call away

THE ARTS

SNAPSHOTS OF BRISTOL’S CULTURAL LIFE

HNEW YORK STATE OF MIND

ead to An Evening with Fran Lebowitz at Beacon next month, and ask her a question. Go on; we dare you. Make it as controversial as you like. Politics, society, art or sport; love, sex, friendship, death with Fran nothing is off the table, and her response will be smarter, wittier and saner than your question probably deserves.

An American original and a purveyor of urban cool, Fran is ‘old New York’. She’s known everyone worth knowing, and attended every party worth attending. She hung out with Mingus and Ellington; she knew the New York Dolls. She worked for Warhol.

Now aged 74, she’s mostly unimpressed with the modern world. She’s livid she can’t smoke in public. She refuses to use a mobile phone or computer; she only writes in biro. Her public image is grumpy, borderline cantankerous, but she’s too naturally funny not to sweeten the pill with humour. Against all odds, she’s become a national treasure.

Although she’s the author of some classic volumes of wit and wisdom, Fran has famously had writers’ block for 30 years; she says it’s because she has “excessive reverence for the written word”. As she explains to Martin Scorsese in the Netflix documentary Pretend

it’s a City – basically seven episodes of Fran firing uncompromising opinions at a chuckling Marty in a wood-panelled room, intercut with shots of her walking around New York – this is why she needs to do so much public speaking –to pay the rent, and buy lots and lots of books. Her publisher’s loss is the audience’s gain; in a cultural landscape filled with bland pundits and talking heads, Fran stands out as one of our most insightful social commentators. She’s appearing in just three UK cities this year, and Bristol’s one of them. Bring your A-game. At Bristol Beacon on 16 September www.bristolbeacon.org

W AT

15 August-12 September 2025

2-6 September JOURNEY TO THE CENTRE OF THE EARTH

A new comedy take on the Jules Verne classic, with two performers and no special effects budget whatsoever. Expect silly jokes, catchy tunes, ridiculous costumes, impressive* dinosaurs and lots and lots of cardboard. not actually that impressive . At Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com

10 September-11 October STARTER FOR TEN

EXHIBITIONS

Until 31 August

SKIN DEEP

Six female artists explore the body as storyteller in this exhibition of fierce and complex works by RWA Academician. At RWA, rwa.org.uk

PS WITH LOVE: PARK STREET

A bold new public art installation brings vibrant flags and banners to Park Street, Queen’s Road, The Triangle and College reen, inviting people to rediscover the stories and symbols that shape the area. bristol it entrebi o u

Until 7 September

DONALD LOCKE: RESISTANT FORMS

The first major survey exhibition of the uyanese artist, featuring ceramics evoking human and natural forms, mixed-media sculptures and more. Spike Island, spikeisland.org.uk

Until 14 September

JURASSIC IMMERSIVE

Lifelike dino encounters, immersive environments, virtual reality rides, and a variety of hands-on activities at Cribbs; jurassicimmersive.co.uk

Until 21 September

AJAMU X: FIERCE: BRISTOL

Ajamu visits cities to make photographic portraits celebrating the L BT individuals often overlooked within mainstream narratives. Last year PF commissioned him to

make 10 new portraits, adding a Bristol chapter to the ever-evolving Fierce archive; the results are on show along with images from Fierce: London and Fierce: Toronto. martinparrfoundation.org

Until 28 September

DANA AWARTANI

Dana’s work is steeped in historical and visual references from Islamic and Arab art-making, honouring traditional craft techniques. Arnolfini; arnol ni org u

SAHARA LONGE

Following her 202 exhibition Sugar, in which nudes were intimately enclosed within Symbolist imagery, Sahara returns to the clothed figure, capturing fleeting 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, examining the fluid, multifaceted world of gender across cultures, eras and personal experiences. At Bristol useum, bristolmuseums.org.uk

Until 23 November

BRISTOL PRIDE

X MARTIN PARR

The legendary photojournalist showcases a retrospective of photos taken at the annual Pride festival. Bristol useum; bristolmuseums.org.uk

6 September-4 January

RWA 172 ANNUAL OPEN

One of the ’s most prestigious open-submission exhibitions returns, welcoming artists at all stages of their careers; at RWA, rwa.org.uk

SHOWS

18-23 August

2:22 A GHOST STORY

The supernatural thriller has starred all sorts in the past; this time it’s the turn of Stacey Dooley and Kevin Clifton ippodrome, atgtickets.com

23 August

DUNE-ICAL

“Bristol’s only tongue-in-cheek indie rock retelling of Frank erbert’s sci-fi epic Dune”. You’d have thought there’d be more. At the Exchange, exchangebristol.com

26-30 August

FIDDLER ON THE ROOF

It’s 1 05 Russia once again, and Jewish milkman Tevye is expression his confusion with changing times and fatherhood via bangers such as I Were A Rich Man and Matchmaker. Bristol ippodrome, atgtickets.com

1-13 September

BAT OUT OF HELL

... back by popular demand says the poster; anyway, it’s the rockin’ good fun musical ft. eat Loaf’s greatest hits. Think a powerhouse eight-piece band on stage and sprawling multi-level platforms; ippodrome, atgtickets.com

The BO autumn season gets off to a cracking start with the return of the musical adapted from David Nicholls’ novel set at Bristol Uni. Some cast tweaks, but el iedroyc’s still in it and Adam Bregman’;s still Brian. We loved this one. bristololdvic.org.uk

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

THE GAFFE

Stand-up LOLs from some of the sharpest, funniest comedians on the circuit, at Bristol’s hottest new comedy club t egaffe o e lub o

24 August

DOGGONE FUNNY

Love dogs Like comedy ave they got the event for you Canines are not just welcome, they’re part of the show, along with dog portrait sketching, a competition for cutest human and bestie and a chillout area for dogs who went a bit too crazy the night before. At Ashton Court; ea rstbristol o u

8 September

OLGA KOCH: COMES FROM MONEY

Fan of Shiv Roy Liked White Lotus ere’s another over-privileged little white rich bitch you will love to hate; at the en; henandchicken.com

10 September

HAL CRUTTENDEN: CAN DISH IT OUT BUT CAN’T TAKE IT al is back with a new show that promises to stick it to The an’, as long as The an’ doesn’t stick it back to him.At Redgrave; redgravetheatre.com

MUSIC

For full listings see: Bristol Beacon (bristolbeacon.org); St George’s Bristol (stgeorgesbristol.co.uk); Trinity (trinitybristol.org.uk); The Louisiana (thelouisiana.net); Thekla (theklabristol.co.uk): O2 Academy (academymusicgroup.com); Bristol Folk House (bristolfolkhouse.co.uk); Electric Bristol (electricbristol.com); The Hen & Chicken (henandchicken.com); and The Gallimaufrey (thegallimaufry.co.uk)

16 August

IGLU & HARTLY

The ‘Noughties global pop rock icons (apparently) come to the Corn Exchange; guest appearances are rumoured. igluandhartlymusic.com

19 August

CASS MCCOMBS

Cass brings his quietly powerful live show to Beacon, offering an evening of raw, thoughtful songwriting from one of indie’s most respected voices. bristolbeacon.or

22 August

OCEAN COLOUR SCENE

OCS lit up the Britpop party, chalking up three Top 5 albums and a run of nine successive Top 20 singles. Catch them at Beacon; bristolbeacon.or

22-24 August

BBC PROMS

Part of Proms Across the , five concerts make up Proms Bristol this year: a collaboration between Paraorchestra and duo The Breath; a celebration of artists who have forged distinctive musical paths with Late Junction; the Danish National Vocal Ensemble (at St George’s); Tess Jackson and Britten Sinfonia, and an exploration of world-class Italian compositions with the Orchestra of WNO. bristolbeacon.org

5 September

THE REAL THING

That’s as in the real Real Thing, not a tribute act! With original vocalists Chris Amoo and Dave Smith, bringing all the soul, funk and dance to Redgrave! We can’t get by without them, no way; redgravetheatre.com

FESTIVALS

Ongoing

BRISTOL FILM FESTIVAL

The year-round fest is currently taking a break until 12 September. bristol l festi al o

23 August

R&B LOVERS SUMMER OUTDOOR FESTIVAL

Eight hours of old-school ’90s and ’00s R’n’B Anthems! Live performers! Confetti showers and glitter station! Massive giveaways! At Prospect; theprospectbuildings.com

OLD CITY SOUNDS

The family-friendly event celebrates the city’s songful soul; back-to-back entertainment from midday until late. bristolcitycentrebid.co.uk

23-24 August FORWARDS FESTIVAL

The last big outdoors bash of the summer, drawing the biggest heritage and emerging names in international music to the Downs, from Doechii to Barry Can’t Swim, Jorja Smith, Ezra Collective, Olivia Dean and more, while the Forwards Thinking strand offers a platform for social initiatives in Bristol. forwardsbristol.com

23-25 August

THE OLD DUKE JAZZ FESTIVAL

If King Street wasn't already rammed in the summer, the popular free jazz fest returns – for its 58th year, would you adam-and-eve it. theoldduke.com

30 August

BRISTOL CRAFT BREW FESTIVAL

Not to be confused with the Craft Beer Fest, so don’t go turning up at Harbourside; this similar event is at Document. craftbrewfestival.co.uk

5-7 September WINGFEST

The ‘world’s most popular chicken wing festival’ returns to Canon’s Marsh. Tickets include free fairground rides and a Wing Fest trucker hat, in case you were on the fence about going; wingfest.co.uk

6-7 September DOGFEST

Yet more canine capers (see Doggone Funny, opposite page) with lots of doggie play and doggie displays but no dogging, obviously. Ashton Court; dogfest.co.uk

7 September

ZINEZILLA ARTS FESTIVAL

Bristol’s comic, zine, illustration and animation festival melds marketplace, an animation festival and workshop at Trinity; zinezilla.co.uk n

THE CARNIVAL IS OVER

...and even if there wasn’t a full-on, bells-and-whistles parade, it was still immense Words and pics by Colin Moody

BRISTOL HEROES

2

“There were more side streets with deep reggae and dub roots, not just new harder beats drowning out all t e original a our

Carnival was good this year. I mean. it was kids-on-the shoulders, hot-yard-activations-all-over-the-area good.

With that in mind, for some of the entries this issue I’m handing the reporting over to some young heritage Jamaican-English-Indian-born reporters who were there. Because I asked myself, what would it feel like for a young person at their first carnival Take a look at pics 3 and 7.

owever, to kick things off....

1

As people flowed in all directions down the streets of St Paul’s, random encounters were possible. The man on the left danced with the woman on the right, and it might have meant something or nothing. It felt like it was easy to flow with people to the music this year. There were more side streets with deep reggae and dub roots, not just new harder beats drowning out all the original flavours. A fuller brew of music to tease and please.

2

The art of street photography I’ve been teaching for years is like music. The ebb and flow of people moving and interacting in the physical space, its notes, and on a good day, chords.

So at Carnival, the way people form up in life moments around sound systems is irresistible to me. My heroes this issue are those who showed up, who added their music to the whole spectacle. There were o cial Carnival activities and there was everything else. That’s two symphonies back-to-back, if you cared to dip in.

3

ere’s the first report from one of those young reporters I mentioned. First up Yasmin, aged 10. Her drawing alone does more to sum up the vibe than my work ever could.

4

People in the ueue for food. You are gonna see a lot of photos of people deep close to sound systems, bodies collaborating with the sounds emitted in jerky poses. For me, another deep part of it is these uiet moments where people ueue together, soaking up the sounds in uiet poses. Their fashion, hair and fragrance stood there on the street, defiant. This is me, and this is my Carnival.

4

BRISTOL HEROES

5

That’s £2 to use the toilet. And yes, I was enjoying the music and vibe so much I was dancing with the camera and the strap fell over the lens. Got that shot though. Is it even a carnival without this enterprise?

6Circomedia; kids from local primary schools connecting with the flavours of Carnival. ive it 10 years, and this energy will manifest in gorgeous riotous colour on the streets. Carnival has a garden, and it’s growing seeds.

7

Breakfast with the elders. We owe them more than dumplings, don’t we? They started Carnival, they fought against tides of discrimination. They boycotted the buses, and built whole communities that drove our culture forwards. They taught our children and cared for our elderly, they nursed the country back to health and built the road to the future we can all enjoy.

We are still discovering what we owe them.

I’ve been to towns where there are only craft beer festivities or morris dancers. It’s not the same. This is richer.

8Aria age . With the final word on Carnival this year.

Colin Moody: content creation, online images Twitter @moodycolin; Instagram @colinmoodyphotography www.colinmoodyphotography.wordpress.com

“I’ve been

to towns where there are only craft beer festivities or morris dancers. It’s not the same. This is richer”

EMILY & DAN ROSS

The heat’s been doing strange things to our friendly booksellers’ minds

Things may be very different by the time you read this column, but rest assured that while it was being written, we were in a state of discombobulation. The heatwave had not only finally penetrated the cool surface reserves of the shop’s concrete floor, but it had also gotten to us, booksellers and customers alike.

On a recent viciously hot Saturday, customers were selecting books with a strange lack of inhibition, coming up with bizarre recommendation assignments which we were only able to fulfil with the most bizarre solutions; weird answers to weird uestions in the sun-stricken pit that was our shop. So for this column, while we can’t present you with every single thing we recommended throughout the heatwave, we can

at least give you a summary of the most recent indefinably odd books we’ve had the pleasure of reading. Things are about to get unusual

Failed Summer Vacation by Heuijung Hur (trans. Paige Aniyah Morris)

This collection of short stories exists without sounding too pretentious in a space just out of reach, at the limits of the legible imagination. Settings and plots are established, the reader is given something to grasp onto, and then the stories seemingly melt in the telling.

In a future where humans no longer breathe oxygen, characters contemplate a return to the planet they abandoned. embers of a message board devoted to a controversial yet waning rock band react in strange ways to the death of one of the most prolific posters.

A man made entirely of paper demands that everyone writes him a statement, on pain of being pummelled with pieces of paper that shoot forth from his sleeves.

If you do manage to gain a foothold in these elliptical tales, the rewards are plentiful delicate human relationships, surreal imagery, sparse and declamatory prose, and a really good dog called Crocodile.

Aug 9 – Fog by

TonyInterruptor by Nicola Barker Regretfully this is the first Nicola Barker book we’ve read and given that she’s written something like 13 novels, it’s not like we haven’t had the chance . But now that we’re safely aboard the Barker bandwagon, we’re in a position to say that TonyInterruptor is the most anarchically entertaining book of the year.

Beginning with a heckling incident at an improvisational jazz gig in which the titular character asks the performers if they can describe themselves as honest’, the novel spools into a hilarious and anxiety-inducing dissection of the nature of creativity.

Kathryn Scanlan

Anyone who read athryn Scanlan’s mesmerising novel Kick The Latch will have some preparation for just how unusual this beautifully reissued older work is.

“Barker’s facility with hashing riddle-likeout

social issues with humour and invention is nothing short of virtuosic”

The cryptically titled Aug 9 – Fog has its roots in a diary the author ac uired at a public estate auction. The lower third of the diary itself was soaked and illegible, but the author -year-old Cora E Lacy and dates 1 -1 2 were clear, and Scanlan set about arranging the entries into a kind of order, decorating each page of this beautiful book with only a few lines each, hinting at and searching for threads of poignancy that the reader is left to knot together. arkly mundane poetry, odd juxtapositions and happenstantial magic combine to make an honestly uni ue reading experience, all testament to the diarist’s flair and Scanlan’s intuitive control as a storyteller.

Can improvisation ever be truly spontaneous What is the internet doing to art Why shouldn’t we stand up in public and shout The dialogue is painfully recognisable to anyone who has felt their opinions on culture carry a smidge more weight than others not us, obviously , and Barker’s facility with hashing out riddle-like social issues with humour and invention is nothing short of virtuosic.

Who knows whether the heat will return with a similar ferocity and you might be forced to endure further esoterica. Frankly speaking, we’ve already got half an eye on autumn’s myriad excuses to retire early to the sanctity of reading indoors, but if hot weather does bring out our more adventurous recommendations, perhaps we won’t pack away the desk fans uite yet.

Visit Storysmith at 36 North Street, Bedminster; www.storysmithbooks.com

BENCHMARKS ANDY HAMILTON

Andy’s journey to this issue’s bench takes him all the way back to the Middle Ages, with a short detour to 20th-century Northampton

At about the age of 14 I started to think that school was an optional suggestion rather than something I had to do. Obviously, I then failed all my exams and found myself working a host of dangerous, badly-paid jobs. I chopped off the top my thumb, breathed in stuff I shouldn’t, handled a bunch of toxic chemicals without protection and, worst of all, I dropped a load of paprika crisp flavouring on my testicles, dying them red for the best part of a fortnight.

Yet the biggest problem was the monotony of it all. In one job I had to smooth out the tomato sauce on ready-meal lasagnes for eight hours with one 15-minute break. To get through this time I developed a vivid imagination that still serves me well when I’m trying to write fiction or poetry. I can conjure other worlds around me and inhabit them. I use it when the claustrophobia of city life becomes too much. I create a woodland that stretches from Temple Meads all the way

up to Hotwells. I see hunter gatherers wandering through a real marsh at St Philips, and the M32 is a torrent of a river. I then live in a place of pastoral beauty instead of somewhere concrete, grey and anxiety-inducing.

Then, last year when I found myself wandering through an actual meadow at Broadmead, it was a strange existential moment. I felt like my imagination was somehow leaking out into reality.

It wasn’t, of course. It was an art instillation. It seems I wasn’t the only one to have this idle fantasy. Instead of weaving these thoughts and experiences into another unreality, Bristol artists Sylvia Rimat and Charli Clark made it real. It has returned this year, bringing nature back to places where it has been shut out. You can again find yourself in 13th-century Bristol, when Broadmead would have been a meadow. We all instinctively know that humans should be living in places like this and that’s what makes this a really powerful work.

But what has any of this got to do with Lockleaze and this

month’s bench? Well, like all good ideas it has spread, and now you can find Field Stories in Lockleaze, also by Charli and Sylvia, where you can gaze upon this prescient and potent notion. It comes complete with its own handcrafted one-person bench; a work of art in itself.

The audio, co-created by Lockleaze residents, tells us that

“The name Lockleaze means an animal enclosure in a field”, giving us a clue to what the place once was. We are also told, in rather dulcet inviting tones that

“I see hunter gatherers wandering through a real marsh at St Philips, and the M32 is a torrent of a river”

“The Lockleaze Neighbourhood Trust, through their Really Wild Lockleaze initiative, is working hard to bring meadows back to the neighbourhood”.

This is public art at its best, something which includes, and can be enjoyed by, the community. I can’t say enough good things about it, and I left Lockleaze with a broad smile on my face having felt like I’d been on holiday.

I’ve lived in Bristol for almost 20 years, but this is the first time I’ve spent any time in Lockleaze. On the surface it is a lot like the Eastfield estate, my stomping ground back in Northampton. A place that was once strip farms, then a country estate and now a decaying housing estate with drug problems, fly-tipping, the threat of violence and all the trappings of a neglected space. It’s been that way since the 1970s. It set the groundwork for my misspent youth. Perhaps if there had been artists around things would have been a little different. Perhaps I’d have seen Eastfield as a field, as somewhere, like Lockleaze, to dream in instead of dreaming to get away from. n

Andy Hamilton is the author of several books including New Wild Order, The First Time Forager and Booze For Free. He coaches authors, and will soon be offering nature writing for wellbeing courses. For more email him Andy@andyhamiltonauthor.com

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BRISTOL SEAFOOD WEEK

This year, it all got a bit in-tents

Words by Deri Robins

Although festival dining is, on the whole, a sociable and pleasant affair, the food can occasionally be hit and miss. It may not be up there with feeding the five thousand with a couple of loaves and fishes, but rustling up 150 five-course meals in a pop-up kitchen is still challenging, and sometimes, the sheer novelty of eating under canvas ends up doing most of the heavy lifting.

Challenging, but doable. Especially in Bristol, where many chefs possess a festival soul which responds warmly to informal, unpretentious, collaborative cookouts. Their bricks-and-mortar restaurants may be garlanded with awards, but stick them in field under a bit of tarpaulin, with a couple of grills and a handful of cheffy mates, and they’re as happy as clams.

They’ve had plenty of practice at it, too. Curated by osh Eggleton, because what food event in Bristol ever isn’t, the Eat rink Bristol Fashion festivals introduced us to fine-dining in yurts. At alley Fest osh curated a similar programme, and when Covid hit, forcing restaurants to close, what was his response Tents. Like a visiting circus, the Breaking Bread tipis run by the Eggleton and Bianchi families sprang up on the owns. They didn’t make them a cent, but they saved a lot of jobs and everybody’s sanity.

As experienced masters of the moveable feast, then, the Bristol crew was more than match-ready for this year’s Bristol Seafood Week. The festival had dipped a toe in the water briny during its 202 debut, and because everyone liked it a lot it returned this year with a more ambitious offering. In addition to events in restaurants, it put up its own mar uee, the Seafood Emporium, just behind Cargo.

Chinese kites. Large round tables under snowy linen are smart as a wedding reception, while at the far end of the tent some familiar faces are ensconced in a sizeable kitchen. ust like the guests, they all seem to be having an extremely jolly time.

DINING DETAILS

Bristol Seafood Week will return in 2026; www.bristolseafoodweek.co.uk

Prices Our feast cost £65 pp Service Jayde Adams on dessert course! Atmosphere Convivial and buzzy

This annual festival has a dual purpose, offering a midsummer boost to Bristol hospitality while celebrating sustainable fishing. You can try exclusive seafood dishes at participating restaurants, watch chefs at work in demo kitchens, enjoy live music and try fishies on little dishies from the best local and national fishmongers and oyster bars.

The 2025 event coincides with a heatwave. uring the weekend we drift around the Emporium, commiserating with cooks grilling over open fires when it’s already 30 in the shade. We learn to shuck oysters; a techni ue every self-respecting foodie should have in its skillset.

And, of course, we attend one of the feasts. We skip the first one, but live to regret it after misty-eyed friends bang on about the crab pill-pill cro uetas and seafood salpicon cooked by rising stars from Caper and Cure, Noah’s, The ensington Arms and ambas. Instead, we opt for the big one the Saturday Night Seafood Ban uet, crafted by some of the South West’s most celebrated chefs.

Beyond the entrance arch, the covered dining area is fully en f te when we arrive, with fairy lights and colourful fish banners resembling

Everything gets off to a flying fish start with snacks from The enny’s Oscar avies. Cod cheek scampi is a fish finger fit for the gods, encased in a light crumby batter on a pool of curry sauce. A slice of wild bream is served crudo-style, enlivened with crispy chilli emulsion and cooled down with cucumber and grapefruit, with a shiso cracker for subtle crunch every possible taste sensation and texture covered in a couple of bites. The more I eat cured fish the more I wonder why anyone bothers to cook it, and the ChalkStream trout with gooseberry, smoked almond and mint prepared by Root’s Rob owell does nothing to alter my opinion. I’m a massive fan of Rob’s cooking anyway, and this fresh-tasting, deceptively simple combination is my favourite dish of the night. any diners are a-buzz with anticipation for the course by Sheldon Curry, who ran the highly rated Wallfish Bistro on Princess ictoria Street at a time when the city was just starting to find its culinary feet. e wows us tonight with a showcase dish involving a hand-dived scallop baked in pastry with Bristol cream and dill; in a theatrical flourish the top half of the shell is replaced before serving. It’s not 100 free from grit, but nothing to get too fussy about. The sweetness of the sherry is a delight, while the moisture that’s been allowed to seep into the crust creates an indulgent, softer, more integrated texture. osh the boss is up next, with a course billed as a grilled whole fish’. Thankfully this does not translate as a whole fish apiece’, which would have been ridiculous, not to mention bony. Instead we’re each served a fat fillet within a rich shellfish bouillabaisse, which I guess answers the tricky uestion of what they do with all the heads, bones, trimmings, shells and other leftover bits and bobs.

Earlier in the evening a smiling annah Catley assured me that her millionaire chocolate tart with sea bass belly caramel would not taste remotely fishy, and miraculously it doesn’t; in fact the oil from the fish lends the tart such a light and silky texture that you’d wonder why people don’t use it all the time. Randomly, this course is served to us by ayde Adams, who’s turned up for the fun of the fair and volunteered as a waiter, because that’s how Bristol rolls. At the end, everyone applauds the supergroup of chefs, and the hits the decks, because obviously, at a fish fest it’s all about the bass. Boom.

Writing about a pop-up event which has now packed up and gone is like running a travel review of Brigadoon yes, I know I’ve used that joke previously in a alley Fest review, but I still find it amusing but this year’s sold-out event suggests that Bristol Seafood Week will return. There’s talk of a new, bigger venue next year the old Breaking Bread site, perhaps Cod only knows at this point, so best watch this space.

FOOD & DRINK

SUMMER OF LOVE

Food love, we mean. It’s been a minute since we ran one of these round-ups, so let’s get stuck in –starting with some awards

When Kyu Jeong Jeon and Duncan Robertson opened their Korean restaurant Dongnae on Chandos Roadlast autumn, everyone predicted that it would win every accolade going. Sure enough, when the National Restaurant Awards listed its Top 100 this year, it romped in at number 46; meanwhile, just across the street, its Michelin-garlanded neighbour Wilson’s was placed at 65th.

And now we have the Good Food Guide’s annual list of Best Local Restaurants –“neighbourhood gems, where good food and genuine hospitality go hand in hand”. Kyu Jeong and Duncan are in again, but this time for their more casual and Stokes Crofty Bokman, “A modest but wholly authentic restaurant” on Nine Tree Hill, where the hero dish tongdak wood-fire roasted chicken stuffed with sticky rice has “captured everyone’s imagination”.

Also in the Guide are a pair of new-for-2025 Bib Gourmands: Little Hollows, also on Chandos Road, with its “expertly made pasta”, and Zak Hitchman’s Other in Bedminster, “A kitsch, colourful and extremely good value” diner with a “di cult-to-define” menu. www.thegoodfoodguide.co.uk

BELOW

Sticking with the accolades, 10 Bristol pubs have made it into The Telegraph’s list of England’s top 500. Praised for having “charming character, welcoming staff, rich history and award-winning beer”are (drumroll): The Avon Packet in Southville; The Bag of Nails in Hotwells; The Barley Mow in St Philip’s; The Green Man and The Highbury Vaults, both in Kingsdown; The King’s Head on Victoria Street; The Llandoger Trow on King Street; The Nova Scotia and The Orchard Inn at Spike Island, and The Swan with Two Necks in St Jude’s. That could be a hell of a pub crawl, though it might kill you in the process.

ABOVE: Mary and Jan of serial award-winner Wilson’s and (RIGHT) a brief visual explanation of why it wins said awards

: Fellow Chandos Road superstars Dongnae

BOOKSHELF

Know your kimchi from your sauerkraut? Your kefir from your kvass If not, why not Fermented food is now an essential part of our diet it tastes good, it’s good for us and even better, we can make it ourselves with very few ingredients.

That’s the idea behind new book Ferment from Nicola Cradock and Matthew Pennington, formerly of the Ethicurean restaurant in Wrington. Their new book teaches you how to transform simple ingredients such as vegetables, fruit, milk and grains into vibrant foods and nutritious drinks, with recipes ranging from classic kimchi to beetroot and caraway sauerkraut, elderflower water kefir and peackles’.

ust grab some salt, a few jars and get started. Ferment is published by Do Books on 4 September; £11.99

Bristol’s O authentic Spanish tapas bar Bravas is marking its 13th birthday.

“We’ve always felt passionate about Bravas being more than a restaurant”, says co-owner Imogen Waite.

“We want it to feel like an institution, somewhere that belongs to Bristol; a place where people connect, share stories, and build memories.

“Over the past13 years, we’ve served around half a million guests in our cosy little bar, each one of those visits a small story of its own – after-work drinks, big birthdays, first dates.” Top tip if anyone takes you to Bravas for a first date, they’re a keeper.

To mark the anniversary the restaurant held an open party on 2 uly, with a live band and paella; the bar raised money for Bristol charity Empire Fighting Chance, with whom Bravas now works closely.

The event, says Imogen, was designed to “celebrate connection, hospitality, and what a good local bar and restaurant can mean to a community. Times are tough in hospitality, but then, they always have been. It’s an industry which demands passion, but I still can’t think of anything more rewarding to dedicate my life to. We need places that build connection more than ever.”

¡Salud! to that.

www.bravas.co.uk

Bravas: the perfect fit for the pedestrianised Cotham Hill cafe quarter

Fermenting: actually a lot simpler than we’d imagined

HOT PLATES

NEW to town

Confusion may possibly reign over the arrival of Made at Nest on North Street, given that it’s opened at the site previously occupied by the rather similarsounding Nook.

The new café, however is rather different, offering as it does the novel combination of ‘ceramics, cakes and caffeine’ a concept which has already done very well for them at their Frome site, which opened in 2022.

If you’ve ever sat with a coffee and a slice of cake and thought, “Yes, this is all very well, but I don’t know what to do with my hands”, then Made at Nest is perfect for you; here you can unleash your inner Picasso and paint a pot, bowl, mug and so forth there’s a huge choice while you’re sipping and munching. www.madeatnest.co.uk

It seems mere months ago that they opened their first Bristol branch on Baldwin Street, but now Turkish restaurant Cappadocia has already launched its second location in the city. Called Table Five, it’s moved into the former Flour & Ash site on Whiteladies Road, a building which has seen so many restaurants come and go that it should probably have revolving doors. However, so far so good after all, who can resist absolutely massive platters of mezes and grills, and more kebab variations you even knew existed? Furthermore there’s a MasterChef winner in the kitchen. If you’ve never heard of Onur Üresin, that may be because he won the 2024 Turkish version of the show.

Incidentally, the name Cappadocia comes from a region in Turkey known for its hot-air balloon rides which seems wholly appropriate for Bristol , no www.cappabristol.co.uk

If you weren’t already planning to move to Redland for the Chandos Road food scene, the arrival of Cornish seafood restaurant One Fish Street might just seal the deal. Originally based in St Ives, it shut in early January and decided to move to Bristol. Owned by chef Bradley onk, the family-run restaurant aims at the point where “relaxed, friendly service meets culinary creativity” we can see why they’ve come to Bristol. www one s street o u

New Korean street food restaurant The Bap has opened in the former, rather shortlived Crosstown Doughnuts site opposite Bristol Museum.

Though part of a small chain, it bills itself as an “independent Korean takeaway and restaurant born out of a passion for Korean cuisine”, offering “a heartfelt journey through the authentic tastes of Korea, with comforting, wholesome, and freshly prepared recipes each day.

“In Korean culture,” they say, “Bap (cooked rice) isn’t just a dish, it symbolises strength, unity, and the joy of sharing within a close-knit community. For Koreans, Bap represents life, history, and love.” Also on the menu are mandu (fried dumplings), kim ma ri (deep-fried seaweed roll), tteok-bok-ki (rice cake with spicy sauce), kimchi and more. www.thebap. co.uk

Fika café has opened in the city centre, serving its signature ‘Fikaccias’ (don’t make us explain that) along with focaccia sandwiches, jacket potatoes and salad bowls.

According to husband-and-wife founders Peyman and Pampi, Fika (it’s Swedish for ‘coffee’) embraces the philosophy of slowing down and connecting with others; it’s more than just a quick bite, then, it’s about “pausing, sharing, and savouring”. www.thefikacafe.co.uk

The Loungers Group’s new Miro Lounge has opened at the old Bocabar site at Paintworks. Original Bocabar owners Mel and Paul Eavis still run their second branch at Finzels Reach.

One of Bristol’s biggest hospitality successes, Loungers opened its first café bar on North Street in 2002 and now have

New Greek café and bar eFZin has opened in Old City, serving coffees along with sweet and savoury baked goods, including a tempting-sounding baklava cheesecake. Currently serving beer, eFZin also plans to branch out into cocktails.

Neapolitan-style pizzeria chain Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana has opened within the old Royal Bank of Scotland on Baldwin Street. It serves, you will be unamazed to hear, classic Neopolitan-style pizzas such as margherita, marinara and calabrese along with monthly specials. For full Italian authenticity they’re best taken with an Aperol out on the large terrace. Finish with a freshly made tiramisu – because you’re worth it. Possibly.

hundreds of sites across the UK; they typically open around 30 a year.

Expect the classic, cosy Loungers vibe –old-school wallpaper your nan would like, oversized vintage sofas and chairs, eclectic artwork, quirky lighting, a dash of kitsch –along with the usual relaxed all-day dining. www.thelounges.co.uk/miro

They take dough very seriously, so if you enjoy geeking out over things like flour grading and traditional baking methods, you can knock yourself out on the website. www.rudyspizza.co.uk

It’s not just the food which evokes the Mediterranean vibes, either: the café remains open until 8pm. Pre-prandial up and down Clare Street optional, but preferred. ef in offee

Sam Elliott of Pasture (as opposed to Sam Elliott of Western movie fame, though we bet he likes steak too) has opened his second Bristol venue: the rather beautiful, all-day Prime by Pasture on St Thomas Street, in the new Redcliffe Quarter.

Prime opens at 8am for coffee and ‘stacked breakfasts’, moving on to burgers, sticky wings and thick shakes throughout the day. In the evening it transforms into a lively hub, serving ‘hands-on dining and vibrant social energy’.

Liked what you ate? The on-site butchery allows you to take home top-

quality steaks, house-made sausages, bacon, and pork belly, while the deli stocks fresh ingredients and artisan products. A takeaway service is also available

Staying true to Pasture’s ethical roots, Prime champions grass-fed, ethically reared beef, sourced in partnership with Philip Warren and farms across the South West and Wales; a commitment which not only enhances the quality and taste of the food, but also supports wholeanimal butchery, ensuring sustainability and minimising waste across the group’s restaurants. www.primebypasture.com

THINKING BIGGER…

It’s been one good-news story after another for Wilson’s’ farm-to-table restaurant on Chandos Street (see page 46), and now owners Jan Ostle and Mary Wilson are planning a major refurbishment.

A £50,000 loan from the British Business Bank’s South West Investment Fund means they will be able to increase their capacity – but don’t expect drastic changes to Jan’s elegant, original cooking, which is always based on seasonal ingredients – much of it sourced at the couple’s two-acre market garden.

Instead, “Our future plans are for Wilson’s to be a stable place that provides great food, great wine, great service and great jobs, and to be part of the community,” says Jan. www.wilsonsbristol.co.uk

CLOSING

Yes, we’ve lost a few favourites this year. Still reeling from the loss of all the Sanchez Iglesias restaurants in Redcliffe – most recently, Casamia and Paco Tapas – and the last-but-one of the once-flourishing Thali Cafes, we’re sad to hear that The Clifton has announced its closure. We’re also sad but unsurprised to hear similar news from Goldbrick House – to date, nobody has seemed able to get this hugely attractive but large and unwieldy building to work.

So let’s leave this section with the familiar homily: use ‘em, or lose ‘em.

CROWDFUNDING…

Award-winning charity Migrateful runs cookery classes taught by refugees and migrants on their journey to integration. Having run classes in Bristol for the last five years, it’s just successfully crowdfunded enough cash to open its own cookery school at Windmill Hill City Farm; it’s due to open later this year. The new space will provide Bristol’s refugee and migrant community with more opportunities for social connection and income generation, as well as somewhere to host Migrateful’s cookery classes, chef training programme, and community events. See www.migrateful.org for more

Everyone loves Wangs, right? Since 2024 Sacha Watts and Sandy Or’s “beautiful, weird little universe of food, culture and community” has been bringing elevated Chinese regional cooking to Bristol, and now they’re hoping to raise cash to bring the first Cantonese charcoal oven to the city too.

The Hong Kong-style oven allows meat to be hung vertically over burning coals to create a crisp outer skin along with deeply sweet, smoky, deeply savoury flavours think traditional Cantonese dishes such as crispy pork belly.

Pledges end on 31 August and range from a dumpling masterclass with chef Emily Xin Xin Chan at £75 to ‘Eternal luck, fortune and good karma’ for a mere £8 – absolute bargain. www.crowdfunder.co.uk www.wangsnoods.com

ABOVE: Migrateful gets the thumbsup from Jamie O; BELOWANDLEFT: Wangs. Once it has its oven, maybe it’ll crowdfund to mend that hole in the plaster

CAFÉ SOCIETY STAN CULLIMORE

Henleazey like Sunday morning

Or indeed, any day between Tuesday and Saturday: Stan revisits a north Bristol favourite

Well, what do you know, dear reader

After all those happy snaps and all those long and lovely word counts, right now we are doing something we have never ever done before here in these chatty, coffeecentric columns of ours.

Before you get to fretting we’ve gone all whacked out and crazy here at CS towers, expanding our minds with one too many, sensation-pleasing cold-press soy-latte caffeine brews, relax. on’t get your filters in a twist. It’s nothing too far out or fancy,

“The way she talked, you’d have thought she’d walked through the gates of heaven and helped herself to a slice of pastry paradise”

honest. We’re just visiting another fab and groovy coffee shop, as per usual. In this case, Littleshop Pantry, up on Northumbria rive, heading into enleaze. You can’t miss it; it’s just opposite the Waitrose car park.

Point is, I said we were visiting this place, but in truth, we were actually revisiting it, since I’ve already written about this charming caf many, many moons ago. owever the thing that makes this particular visit so sweet and special to my secret soul, is that this time we went on the recommendation of an octogenarian reader.

Long story short, I bumped into her at a wedding feast recently, and weddings being what they are, we got chatting; mostly about the massive joys of a monstrously fine pastry she had eaten at this caf just days before. onestly, I have never heard anyone wax so lyrical and extensively about a raspberrytopped anish with jam inside. ery life-a rming. The way this lady talked you would have thought she’d walked through the gates of heaven and helped herself to a slice of pastry paradise. Either way, didn’t take long for me to

decide a trip was in order to track down said pastry. So we went, we walked in and we were won over. Hardly a surprise. It is one gorgeous little coffee shop, with more reasons to be cheerful than a bookshop full of banknotes. Among its many attractions are the bevy of bench tables inside, the several sunny sweet spots outside and, of course, a sensational selection of top-notch nibbles, both sweet and savoury, on offer. I could go on (and on) about just how truly excellent this place is, but sadly, that old wordcount is nipping at my heels once again. id I mention they’re dog-friendly, by the way Not the wordcounts, the caf . Rufus the dog was delighted.

So rather than wasting any more precious syllables, let me just say that it comprehensively merits a visit. Or indeed, a revisit. And as you might be able to tell from the pictures, raspberry anish pastries aren’t the only game in town. 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

Rosé. We like our angels to shout

It’s August. It’s warm. It’s been a long day. You’re in the garden. Reach for the rosé.

You’re probably thinking pale, right? That whisper of pink in a glass you can practically see through. And that’s totally fine we’ve got you covered at KASK. But we’d also love to pour you something different. Because not all rosé should be anaemic.

Barely-there blush has become the default. It’s everywhere in your feed, in every lifestyle ad, on every influencer’s holiday reel. Kylie’s sold over 21 million bottles, each one perfectly filtered to match the pastel dream.

But here’s the thing: there’s so much more to rosé than its colour. And the obsession with pale pink? It’s made us miss out on some absolute bangers.

Who do we blame?

Provence. Or more specifically, Whispering Angel, the go-to bottle for hen dos, hot tubs and Love Island. Credit where it’s due, they nailed the branding. Pale became premium. The paler, the posher. It didn’t take long for supermarkets to start rejecting great wines just for being ‘too dark’. Winemakers chasing sales changed their techniques to lighten the colour. Suddenly, pale pink became the unwritten rule.

To be fair, the association isn’t helped by the existence of Barefoot White infandel the darkest and arguably worst rosé out there. We’re not wine snobs at KASK, except when it comes to that Frankenwine. Sweet, synthetic and putrid. Hard pass.

How rosé’s made (and why it matters)

The colour and flavour of ros are both shaped by how it’s made. Here are the main methods:

• Direct pressing red grapes are gently and quickly pressed. Result: pale colour, lighter style.

• Short maceration skins soak with the juice for a few hours, giving more colour and texture.

• Saignée French for to bleed’. Some juice is siphoned off early from a red wine ferment. Deeper colour, more intensity.

• Blending red white wine mixed. Rare in still rosé, common in sparkling, including Champagne.

The Provence formula is direct pressing with pale-skinned grapes like Cinsault, picked early before they’ve ripened. That means low flavour. So to get those crowd-

pleasing strawberry notes? They’ll use lab-grown yeasts to add it back in. Yep, the flavour is factory-fitted. Some even use white grapes to water down the pink, and charcoal to bleach the colour even further. Trouble is, charcoal also strips out acidity and flavour. But hey, it looks good on the ’gram.

“We’re just not fans of stripping a our in fa our of colour”

So, are we Provence-haters? Not quite. We’re just not fans of stripping flavour in favour of colour. Taste should always come first. And to be fair, not all Provence rosé is like this. We’ve always got one we love open at KASK: a stunning organic drop from Mas de Valériole in the Camargue. It’s pale, fresh and dry but also naturally packed with strawberry, citrus and green apple aromas and flavours. No artificial hacks here.

It’s time to look beyond the blush Colour doesn’t equal quality. There’s a whole spectrum to explore coral, watermelon, raspberry. Dry and bright, lightly sparkling, even slightly sweet. From Italian Ramato-style Pinot Grigios to juicy Basque Txakoli Wines with grip, wines with attitude. Not just summer uaffers, but food-friendly stunners that beg for a second sip.

We’re hosting a rosé tasting at KASK this August with a line-up that proves it isn’t just a colour it’s a category. A deliciously diverse one at that. Here are three we’ll be pouring which will hopefully show it’s time to ditch the pale-only prejudice.

(And don’t be embarrassed to ask for ice. We wouldn’t do it ourselves because it will water down the wine but we’re not the ones drinking it.)

W Rosato ’22, Ben Walgate

We had this on a Welsh beach a hot weekend ago and it was perfect. A blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it’s textural, bright and juicy, and yes, darker in colour than supermarkets would enjoy. A mouth-watering hit of cranberry lassi (if that were a thing).

Der Elefant im Porzellanladen ’22, Pia Strehn

From the Queen of Austrian rosé, The Elephant in the China Shop has been aged in oak, creating a full-bodied, drop-dead gorgeous ros that is defiantly different, with notes of blood orange, peach, honeydew melon and bourbon vanilla, white nougat and herbs.

Pink Panda ’23, Staffelter Hof

From our favourite vineyard in the Mosel, Pink Panda is fun, funky, lip-smackingly gluggable and with distinct notes of red fruits, citrus and spice.

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

PREPARE TO DAZZLE

Four Bristol jewellers select some of their favourite sparklers, and a local watch company tells us what makes them tick

Words by Ursula Cole

Hands up if you’ve ever bought an outfit on impulse and never worn it. OK, so that appears to be all of us; you can put your hands down, now.

It’s the all-too familiar case of buy in haste, repent at leisure. After several years of being guilt-tripped by the back of the wardrobe, you bundle the unworn outfit into a bag and drop it off at your nearest St Peter’s ospice shop, where hopefully it might make someone else’s day as well as doing a bit of good.

With jewellery, though we mean the really good stuff, not costume jewellery, though that can be a lot of fun too few of us can afford to make expensive mistakes. The same goes for watches; sure, you can strap something made by Apple or Samsung to your wrist, and be able to access your entire life with the tap of a switch, but can a small dark screen compare with the romance of a beautifully crafted timepiece

Whatever your personal style, jewellery and watches are an investment pieces you may end up wearing every day of your life, and even pass down to the next generation. It’s a purchase you’ll need to consider carefully, and to inspire you on your jewellery-buying journey we spoke to four independent Bristol jewellers and a leading watch company.

DIANA PORTER

Who are you?

An independent jewellers proudly run by a small friendly team who are passionate about crafting pieces which resonate with our community.

What makes you special?

In addition to our signature designs, we offer bespoke jewellery services tailored to your uni ue needs. Whether you wish to transform a cherished heirloom into a new creation or seek jewellery which reflects your personal style, our skilled team can bring your vision to life.

What are your most popular ranges?

One of our signature creations, the Sibyl pendants affectionately

“The Sibyls are known as the ‘Bristol Necklace’ by locals”

Diana Porter’s exquisite, bespoke rings are ideal for wedding jewellery, while the Sibyls are the stuff of local legend

known as the ‘Bristol Necklace’ by locals — holds profound sentimental value for its wearers. We love hearing about the meaningful connections individuals from Bristol and beyond have forged with these pieces. They are also very versatile, suitable for everyday wear as well as special occasions, but they have also been cherished by many of our customers on their wedding day.

What’s your own current favourite in the collection?

Over the last year the team been working on an exciting new silver collection which merges our signature etching process with chunky and androgynous designs. There is a doom ring that I absolutely love! The words ‘when the heart and mind they meet’ are hidden within the band. The inscriptions are a reminder that love, learning and growing involve a combination of a dance between the heart and the mind – and I think that’s just beautiful.

FOXHILLS JEWELLERS

Who are you?

We are a family-run business offering luxury branded preloved jewellery, fine jewellery, bespoke designs, repairs, cleaning, valuations and expert advice with a personal touch.

What makes you special in the city?

Founded in Bristol city centre in 1710, Foxhills brings over 300 years of experience to every piece, making us not only one of the oldest jewellers in the UK but also one of the most trusted. It’s where quality meets history and personal service, right on your doorstep.

from Fears:

Our rich legacy inspires confidence. Our range blends a wide and unique range of fine and luxury new and pre-owned jewellery with expert services, and a level of personal service only an independent, heritage jeweller can offer.

What are your most popular ranges?

Pre‑owned luxury brand jewellery – authenticated pieces from luxury houses like Cartier, Tiffany & Co, Gucci, Bvlgari, and others are among our high-demand items. Our best sellers are Tiffany & Co – we have over 1000 preloved items for sale and we stock more of their preowned pieces than anyone else in the UK. Engagement and wedding rings, including signature pieces from premium designers such as Brown & Newirth; GIA-certified platinum solitaire and halo rings and engagement jewellery are among their most sought-after offerings. These rings reflect Foxhills’ reputation for craftsmanship, heritage, and quality materials.

What’s your own current favourite in the collection?

Boodles jewellery – it has a similar story and heritage to Foxhills.

FEARS

WATCH COMPANY

Who are you?

A British family-run luxury watch company, originally established in 1846 in Bristol, creating elegantly understated, hand built watches which blend contemporary design with over 175 years of heritage.

What makes you special in the city?

Fears combines nearly two centuries of heritage with a modern, design led approach, offering a personal and welcoming boutique experience where visitors can explore our full collection, discover exclusive pieces and enjoy expert advice. Our boutique in Clifton Arcade is also the home of our Fears ‘Boutique Editions’ and the only physical location where you can try on and purchase these exclusive watches.

What are your most popular ranges?

Among our most sought-after pieces are the Brunswick 38 Polar White, the Redcliff 39.5 Date in Pewter Grey, and the Arnos Pewter Blue – each reflecting our signature understated style and appealing to collectors and enthusiasts both locally and internationally.

Three

clockwise from left, the Brunswick 38 Copper Salmon, the Arnos Pewter Blue, and the Odyssey

A Foxhills favourite: the Tiffany & Co 16-stone Schlumberger ring

What’s your own current favourite?

At the moment, it’s the Brunswick 38 Copper Salmon – a beautifully refined watch which balances timeless design with a warm, contemporary twist.

LOXLEY JEWELLERS

Who are you?

At Loxley, we turn your stories into beautifully handcrafted bespoke jewellery, with a mix of traditional goldsmithing, cutting-edge new technologies and a whole lot of heart.

What makes you special in the city?

We’re a small but mighty team who genuinely love what we do, offering everything from bespoke designs and remodelling to careful repairs all with a relaxed, personal touch and over 25 years of experience behind every sparkle.

“Whatever your jewellerystyle,is investment”an

What are your most popular ranges?

Our bespoke engagement rings are definitely the showstoppers, but people also love our everyday fine jewellery, personalised pieces, and remodelled heirlooms that bring old treasures back to life.

What’s your own current favourite in the collection?

Right now we’re a bit obsessed with a uni ue angular lozenge-cut diamond ring that has just come out from the final stage of polishing

it’s bold but elegant, full of personality, and just the perfect example of what happens when creativity meets craftsmanship and a really lovely

CLIFTON CERAMICS & FINE JEWELLERY

Who are you?

A small shop at the top of The all, where for over 25 years we’ve been selling fine diamond and precious stone jewellery, alongside the famous Moorcroft pottery

What makes you special?

Individual new and pre-owned jewellery alongside some very interesting vintage pieces, including brooches.

What are your most popular ranges?

Our diamond and coloured stone dress rings and single-stone diamond engagement rings.

What is your own favourite from the current range?

A yellow sapphire ring and emerald pendant. n

YOU HAVE BEEN READING

Diana Porter 33 Park Street; www.dianaporter.co.uk

Foxhills Jewellers 24 High Street, Thornbury www.foxhillsjewellers.com

Fears Watch Company 4 Clifton Arcade; www.fearswatches.com

Loxley Jewellers www.loxleyjewellers.co.uk

Clifton Ceramics & Fine Jewellery 58 The Mall, Clifton www.cliftonceramics.co.uk

Two current Clifton Ceramics favourites: an emerald pendant, and a yellow sapphire and diamond dress ring

Gems in all colour of the rainbow at Loxley: from top, blue topaz, amethyst and peridot, and, of course, sparkling diamonds

PROUDLY SERVING BRISTOL FOR OVER 300 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

Discover the timeless elegance and trusted expertise of a jeweller with over three centuries of heritage. Established in 1710, we are Britain’s oldest jewellers still trading, now serving customers online and from our beautiful Thornbury store.

CONTACT US

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Restoring your treasures with expert care

GOLD BUYING

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JEWELLERY VALUATIONS

For insurance or probate, professionally certified

POST OR DROPOFF SERVICE

Send your jewellery safely or visit us in store

LUXURY BRAND PRELOVED BUYER

Sell or trade your preloved Tiffany, Cartier, Gucci & Boodles

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THE DESIGNERS’ HOUSE

Nick Woodhouse and John Law pride themselves on really getting to know their clients, delivering houses and gardens that reflect their likes and dislikes. But what happens when they design their own home?

By Kirsty Lake

THE BIG TIP

Designers Nick Woodhouse and John Law – who work across the South West, from Bristol to Devon, and range as far as London on occasion –have recently finished a very personal project: the renovation of both their home and garden. Their Victorian villa has been a labour of love for the couple over the last few years, and now features deep earthy tones and personal touches throughout. The couple moved to Bath in 2009, when both left careers in advertising to retrain and pursue their shared passion –design. Having set up Woodhouse and Law the same year, they soon opened their first showroom on Bathwick Hill, still the working hub of their business today. The showroom is now accompanied by a new studio, home to a design team of ten.

“The practice was set up to break down the traditional barriers between interior and garden design,” says Nick, “working holistically to create seamless, cohesive designs from inside to out. One thing we agreed from the outset was that there was to be no signature style –every scheme should be different, reflecting the very personal style of the clients themselves.”

With that in mind, the studio team work hard to really get to know each client, their lifestyle and day-to-day requirements. In doing so, they look each time to curate a home that reflects the individual’s experiences, interests and personality.

This also makes the job so much more fun and varied, with recent schemes ranging from monochromatic and contemporary to a country house filled with pattern and colour. “It’s perhaps thanks to this adaptability,” Nick says, “that we regularly win repeat business, and have recently started a seventh project for the same family: a contemporary new-build in the hills of Bath.”

With their own home and garden, of course, Nick and John have been able to dig deeper into their own personal style, bringing a range of tastes and influences to the project. With a team including degree-trained interior architects, the studio’s skills reach beyond those of a traditional interior designer and decorator, so they relished the opportunity to remodel the house.

A large kitchen diner was created, and physical barriers to the garden removed, bringing in views from room to room. Collectively, the changes ensure a greater sense of cohesion between all their home’s spaces, while maintaining a different offering for each room, from the light-filled kitchen diner to the cosy snug, a space drenched in a deep earthy red and the perfect spot to hide away from the world with a book or some music. (Or knock yourself out – try both at once!)

The couple love to entertain, and have a large extended family, so it was important to have a dining space big enough to accommodate bigger groups on occasion; one, too, that provided a strong contrast to the more intimate kitchen with its round table. They commissioned a Dutch furniture maker for the larger table: its heavy oak top grounds the scheme, providing a lovely contrast to a Gustavian armoire – a birthday present to John from Nick.

GET THE LOOK

Kirsty’s interiors edit for August 1. Coniston drinks trolley by Neptune, £995; www.neptune.com; 2. Minley red dining chair by Daals, £169.99 each; www.daals.co.uk; 3. Ellie table lamp by Pooky, £88; www.pooky. com; 4. Budget artwork: French Summer Garden by Debbie Barton at Indira Rose, Clifton, £195; www.indirarose.co.uk; 5. Splurge artwork: I wonder if Banksy has seen this? by Georgian Hare at Indira Rose, Clifton, £1,450; www.indirarose.co.uk

Wallpaper in this space is woven, adding warmth and texture while also creating the perfect backdrop for the couple’s collectibles and art. The salon-hang incorporates more sentimental pieces amongst the paintings; these include everything from opera glasses to ohn’s grandfather’s watercolour tablet. “When I walk through the room, I can picture my grandfather working away at the dining table, splashing paint around”, says ohn. “It’s a great way to remember him, without just hanging a photograph, and brings his infectious energy to the room.”

The fabric on the blinds not only creates a sense of fun but also perfectly frames the view through to the kitchen, and on to the garden beyond. Here, Nick took inspiration from his travels to North Africa, the far wall painted in a dusky terracotta, with multi-stem olive trees framing the outdoor log fireplace. While the garden offers areas for entertaining and dining, it’s also a very private space in which to potter and unwind.

For more: www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

Kirsty Lake is creative director at The Curator’s House; 01225 696996; www.thecuratorshouse.co.uk

A QUESTION OF BALANCE

The benefits of Pilates are widely known, but it has a reputation for being punitive. Rachel Ifans visits a new studio in Coombe ingle and discovers whether or not it’s for her

I’m one of those runners who just wants to run and views any other form of exercise with a healthy dose of side-eye. Especially ones that take place on a mat or in a sweaty gym.

However, having recently done a long race and found my core and glutes severely wanting, and now being in the eye of the menopause storm, bombarded by scare stories on social channels about waning muscle and bone density, I decided it was time to #getstrong, be a #strongmom and activate #beastmode. Only kidding. I may be putty in these algorithms’ hands, but I’ll never be a gym bunny.

Instead, I signed up for a subscription with Islandz, a Pilates studio in Coombe ingle, rolled out my dusty yoga mat and took a deep breath. olly, founder and owner of Islandz, which runs in-person groups and one-to-one Pilates sessions, as well as online live and recorded sessions and a new subscription model (£17.99 per month), advised I had a go at her tutorials for absolute beginners first.

The short sessions were good for describing how I could find a neutral spine while I was on all fours, as well as how to hold my head and legs correctly in tabletop position.

“In a class situation, I’m all over people

Can you do this? Sure you can

about their form but it’s harder to make sure people are doing it right online”, says Holly. “I want to make sure people are getting the most out of the online workouts so these tutorials are a good place to start.”

I also booked a one-off in-person session with Holly at her garden studio in BS9 as an intro. At the very start, Holly had me stand at the end of the yoga mat in my normal position.

“A lot of our troubles come from our feet”, she says. “We tip with our feet and then once your feet tip in, your ankles tip in, your knees come in, your hips go out and it’s all linked. Doing Pilates helps you understand a bit of biomechanics and gets you thinking about your posture.”

The session with Holly was more fun than I’d imagined. Part of the reason I’d never wanted to do Pilates was that, years ago, I’d stumbled across some old videos of its founder, oseph, doing some frankly brutal stuff with his subjects back in the 1900s.

“It’s moved on a lot since his day”, says Holly. “He had a saying that was something like if you do Pilates for 10 sessions, you will feel the difference; for 20 sessions, you will see the difference; and for 30 sessions, you’ll have a whole new body. That’s not what we’re trying to do anymore. I’m not trying to change anyone’s body shape; I’m just trying to make sure people are moving and that they’re strong and they’re safe.”

Since signing up to the subscription, I’ve been working my way through Holly’s online sessions, which range from five-minute sessions that are core focused to full-on Pilates classes that last about 45 minutes. I’m still on the beginner ones but there are intermediate and advanced ones to progress to.

Each session is a bit different, which keeps it fresh. While you’re working the same muscle groups each time, you’re doing it in a different way so your body is always working and you don’t get bored. And more importantly, I think I’m beginning to see benefits; I don’t feel as hunched in the shoulders and I feel like all the muscles I use for running are being lengthened and strengthened thanks to the Pilates.

“I feel that all my muscles are being lengthened and strengthened”

We moved on to some balance work –something Holly incorporates in every class because it’s so important for everyone, and particularly those of us on the upper side of 0. As running is a one-sided activity, I always thought my ankle strength was pretty good, but standing on one foot with my hands behind my head and rotating showed me there was work to do.

Although I’d love to join in Holly’s IRL sessions, it’s just much more convenient to log on when suits me. This week, I even found myself on the mat during a lunch break; whereas I never run in the middle of the day, because it involves getting very sweaty and requires a shower afterwards, and I have to be mindful of what I eat and drink beforehand, so it’s all a bit complicated, it’s easy to fit in a uick 15-minute Pilates between zoom calls with barely a hair out of place afterwards. n

For more: www.islandz.co.uk

BUSINESS MATTERS

FROM DIGITAL TO WELLNESS, BRISTOL’S B CORP COMPANIES ARE EXCELLING IN EVERY FIELD

ONE50STUDIO LIMITED ARCHITECTS, PLACEMAKERS AND CREATIVE THINKERS www.one50studio.com

What drew you to the B Corp movement?

We were drawn to the B Corporation movement as a way to strengthen our mission of putting people and planet at the heart of how we design architectural projects and nurture our practice. The B Corp framework naturally aligned with our values—designing inclusively, working sustainably, and thinking regeneratively. The certification process gave us space to reflect on our journey so far and sharpen our focus for the future, right across our practice.

What’s your ambition as a B-Corp and what are your plans for the future? As a B Corp, our ambition is to lead the way in regenerative architecture, community-led development, and climate-conscious design. We’re passionate about reusing existing buildings, delivering zero-carbon homes, and supporting social equity through affordable and supported housing. Looking ahead, we’re focused on strengthening client feedback, investing in sustainable design training for our team, and building partnerships with people and organisations who share our values - please get in touch if that’s you!

How important has becoming a B Corp been for your staff, their motivation, and their morale?

B Corp status reinforces the culture we care about—equity, well-being, and shared purpose. It’s helped us show that people matter here, and brought a strong sense of pride and motivation to the work we do every day.

LIAM HIRT

CIRCUMSTANCE DISTILLERY

www.circumstancedistillery.com

What was it that drew you to the B Corp movement?

We were one of the first companies in Bristol to join the B Corp movement, gaining our certification in 2020; Psychopomp Microdistillery and Circumstance Distillery are still the only distilleries with certifications. We had already established our credentials as an ethical and sustainable business, being certified organic and carbon neutral, but the B Corp impact assessment provided a framework all the things we were already doing and helped us identify gaps where we could do better.

What is your ambition as a B-Corp and what are your plans for the future?

We are always looking to improve, whether that’s improving the flavour in our rum or reducing the amount of energy we use. There are some areas where we know we can improve environmentally, but are currently hampered by the property we occupy. The next big move is into new premises where we can address those areas more easily.

What is the most rewarding element of being part of the B Corp movement?

I don’t know If I would call it rewarding. It’s hard work and there are always improvements that can be made. I guess knowing that we are outperforming other spirits companies in terms of sustainability and ethics is a small reward of sorts.

KAREN & NIKKI LOOM DIGITAL

www.loomdigital.co.uk

What drew you to the B Corporation movement?

We’ve always tried to make Loom a force for good so getting certified as a B Corp made sense as a next step for us. Prioritising people and the planet has always been at the core of Loom and the process of becoming a B Corp made us really look at what ‘good’ actually meant for each part of the business.

What is the most rewarding element of being part of the B Corp movement?

We’re really proud to be part of a movement pushing for positive change and display that badge of honour. As well as giving our team even more purpose, it’s also attracted new clients and employees.

How important has becoming a B Corp been for your staff, their motivation, and their morale?

Becoming a B Corp has really cemented our dedication to being a sustainable business and everyone at Loom owns initiatives to ensure we’re making a positive change - whether that’s for our team, clients, community or planet. We’ve planted trees, picked litter in our local area, supported students with work experience, offered our services to local charities and much more.

What advice would you give to founders interested in applying for B Corp certification?

It’s impossible for one or two people to do everything. We found that involving the team helped to share some of the responsibilities, as well as adding an element of team-building and fun to the process.

STEPHEN BAKER

GORAM HOMES

www.goramhomes.co.uk

What drew you to the B Corp movement?

It was a very natural fit for us. B Corp recognises companies with a shared mission to use ‘business for good’, and we’re proud to be part of only a small handful of UK developers to meet the rigorous social and environmental standards.

Here at Goram Homes we’re not solely motivated by profit. We build high levels of affordable housing for social rent and shared ownership, we aim to develop net zero carbon homes, and when we sell the homes any profit we do make is invested back to Bristol City Council.

What is your ambition as a B-Corp and what are your plans for the future?

Becoming a B Corp is just the start. There’s lots more to do, including continuing to support communities in which we build – such as our One Lockleaze skills academy, which has given free training to hundreds of people and kickstarted careers in construction.

We want to build the right homes, in the right places, in the right way. Being a B Corp gives us a framework to do this. We’ll be building 1,000 homes by April 2026, and we’re looking forward to supporting even more people along the way.

NICK STOPARD

FRANCES LUCRAFT

GRACE & GREEN

www.graceandgreen.co

What was it that drew you to the B Corp movement?

When we founded Grace & Green, we believed from day one that business should be a force for good, so the B Corp movement immediately stood out as a natural fit for our company, and to join a community of other businesses that care not just about profit, but also about people and the planet. It gave us a really clear framework to measure our impact, hold ourselves accountable, and connect with likeminded changemakers working towards a better way of doing business. We’re super-proud to have been awarded a B Corp score in 2023 of 146.5 which makes us the highest scoring organic period care brand in the world.

What is the most rewarding element of being part of the B Corp movement?

Without a doubt, it’s the sense of shared purpose. Being part of the B Corp community connects us with businesses that are pushing boundaries, challenging the status quo and showing that sustainability and ethics can sit at the heart of commercial success. It’s helped us amplify our impact and grow a purpose-led community in truly meaningful ways.

JO REID

For example, we currently donate 2% of revenue to help address period poverty across the uk.

What advice would you give to founders interested in applying for B Corp certification? Start by embedding your values into every decision, from your operations and governance to how you treat your customers and team. The certification process is pretty rigorous (and rightly so) but incredibly worthwhile. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about committing to progress and ongoing improvement. I recommend other businesses to not be afraid to reach out to other B Corps, ask questions, and embrace the learning process!

At Grace & Green, we’re proud to be a certified B Corp, offering sustainable, highperformance period care that puts people and the planet first. Readers can get 15% off our award-winning range, from organic tampons to reusable pads and cups – for personal use or when supplying a workplace. Through our Workplace Period Dignity programme, we support businesses across the UK and Bristol. Go to: graceandgreen.co or scan the QR code, and enter the code BRISTOLIFE at checkout for 15% off.

BOARDWALK PROPERTY www.boardwalkpropertyco.com

Why B Corp?

We’ve always wanted to shake up the estate agency industry. B Corp gave us a framework to do that, being a catalyst for positive change that matched our values. Scoring over 100 points, we became the only certified agency outside London, aiming to be a force for good in both the communities we serve and the industry we’re aiming to shake up.

What’s the ambition?

Put simply: to be the change we want to see in the world. We believe businesses have a responsibility to leave things better than they found them - specifically within the communities they serve, but also in the wider world around them. That belief is baked into everything we do, and the certification holds us to it.

What’s been most rewarding?

The ripple effect. We set out to improve the reputation of our industry. Becoming B Corp certified helped us make that mission official, and seeing others raise their game as a result has been hugely rewarding.

How has it impacted your team?

The biggest surprise has been how much the team embraced it. Most come from outside the industry, but they’ve taken real ownership, growing their knowledge, getting involved, and showing real pride in what we stand for. It’s created a genuine sense of purpose that comes through in how they show up every day, and how they make our clients feel about their move.

CALVIUM www.calvium.com; hello@calvium.com

What drew you to the B Corp movement?

At Calvium, our vision is to deliver digital innovation that drives meaningful impact – for society, the planet and business. Having B Corp certification gives us a powerful, globally recognised accreditation and framework to demonstrate and track our progress. It also provides our clients and partners with trusted proof of commitment to social value and sustainability: values which are shaping the future of both public and private sector leadership.

What’s the most rewarding element of being part of the B Corp movement? Seeing measured positive impact encourages further improvement – it’s a positive cycle! Also, the ethical business ecosystem is blooming, and there are more and more accredited B Corporations keen to work with each other to further embed ethical and sustainable practices into the core of the business community. We are pleased to be contributing our skills to progress this positive movement.

What advice would you give to founders interested in applying for B Corp certification?

Achieving B Corp certification has been a journey of continuous improvement, driven by time, energy, and team-wide commitment. It’s not a destination but an ongoing process of doing better. For businesses considering certification: the B Corp team is supportive, so don’t hesitate to ask questions. Be clear about your ethical purpose and stay open to progress. Re-examine all areas of your business – processes, assets, suppliers, people, and product lifecycle – for opportunities to improve. Most importantly, document everything, as evidence is required throughout.

CARNIVAL

EVERYONE LOVES IT. BUT WHY DOES IT MATTER TO BRISTOL?

HAVE YOU MET MS JONES?

As St Paul’s Carnival’s executive director, LATOYAH MCALLISTER-JONES is dedicated to building the carnival’s legacy, transforming it from a single day event into a continuous celebration throughout the year of the local community and Bristol’s African Caribbean culture

LaToyah kindly joined us for a recent Bristol Life Network Lunch, in a conversation which touched on the rationale of Carnival, its organisational challenges, why it matters and what it means to Bristol.

LaToyah begins by explaining that she was born in Hackney, in a working-class estate made up of white and Caribbean people.

“Every year during Notting ill Carnival, in my row of houses, all of the windows of the Caribbean homes would go up, and you’d hear Soca playing, and with the sun shining it was one of the one of the most joyous experiences I had as a kid”, she says.

“I went to Notting Hill Carnival for the first time when I was eight. It was such a visceral experience for me to be somewhere where the people looked like me, and there was the same kind of food that I ate in my house. The music was vibrant, everybody was happy. The experience had a lifelong impact, and it was only a few years ago that I realised that I’m probably in this job because of that experience as an eight-year-old child.

“Carnival is free at the point of access, which is its SP. Carnival is a really inclusive event; St Paul’s Carnival in particular. Our founders wanted to share their culture with the new communities that they’d come to live within. They’re all part of the Windrush generation, but it was also about inclusivity and social cohesion.

“For me, it’s also really important that African Caribbean people tell their story with their own voices; often marginalised people, their stories are fre uently told through other perspectives and through other mouths.”

From Bristol’s point of view, why is Carnival important to the city?

“It’s important for a number of reasons. Bristol’s history as a harbour city is uite contentious, and I think that Carnival is a reminder of that. For me, it’s not Black history, it’s a shared history, and I think Carnival is incredibly important as a reminder of that social cohesion point.

“On another perspective, Carnival is a really important part of the city and regional ecology. It brings .2 million into the city and the wider region; half of that is spent in the footprint so that the community benefits. All of the traders, the gardens where

people are selling chicken and red stripes, get to benefit, but the rest of it is spent in our restaurants, our pubs, our clubs, the after-parties. So everybody gets a slice of the Carnival pie.

“Another reason is that when Bristol sells itself internationally, it’s balloons, it’s Carnival: it’s why people come to our universities, why people stay, and set up families and work in your businesses and become part of the Bristol story. Carnival is an incredibly important part of that ecology.”

So does that spirit still fully exist in the same way, or has it just become more of a big street party?

“I think it depends on your perspective. uring the pandemic, Bristol St Paul’s Carnival was the only carnival that delivered brunch to its elders in the morning. One of the reasons it’s really special is that it’s still really connected to the community, and people still

“EVERYONE GETS A SLICE OF THE CARNIVAL PIE”

feel really passionate about it. Our founders are still with us, and are very much woven into the fabric of what we do, so every carnival morning starts with the brunch to thank our elders.

“A lot of the work that we do all year round is about people understanding the context of Carnival. So when you come you understand its origins, why these stories are so important to African Caribbean people, and there’s a respect for that.

“I’m second generation, so I’m uite close to the feeling of what the Caribbean represents. But my children are two generations away from that, so their connection to Carnival is very different from mine.

y generation spends uite a lot of time arguing about what’s pure carnival, but actually my job is to hand it to the next generation, and also give them the permission to allow carnival to evolve, because from the Windrush generation to my teenager at 15, their experiences have been so different in terms of how they feel received in their country.”

LaToyah first came to Bristol 10 years ago, working for homeless charities; it was through meeting the likes of Roger ri th, who was running jima radio at the time,

MAINPIC, OPPOSITE: LaToyah at the network lunch; this page, scenes from Carnival

that she realised that you could deliver social justice through the arts. It was her first step towards working for Carnival. She talks a little more about the biggest pleasures and challenges in the job.

“One of the biggest challenges of Carnival is that, of any job I’ve ever had, it’s got the widest spectrum of stakeholders that want completely opposite things. Trying to please as many of them as possible is the thing that keeps me up at night. What the police want is not what the sound systems would want. It’s not what I want. You can’t please all the people all the time.

“What I enjoy the most is seeing all of that crazy work that you do for nine, ten, months, leading up to carnival: the procession. On Carnival morning, when you get on site and you see all of the traders

“OF ALL THE JOBS I’VE HAD, CARNIVAL HAS THE WIDEST SPECTRUM OF STAKEHOLDERS WHO WANT COMPLETELY OPPOSITE THINGS”

are in their correct place, more or less everybody’s setting up, and you feel the energy that comes at the beginning of the days before the site is even filled up. There’s nothing like it.”

And it all has to be put together with a tiny core team, albeit amplified with dozens of volunteers, contributors, helpers, organisations, companies and so on?

“Yes – but when we deliver Carnival, we become a bit of a super team with Purplefish, who represent us in terms of marketing, also Trinity Arts, who we work very closely with. Carnival doesn’t exist without the community. We work with a lot of organisations, like yours, that want to provide an experience of volunteering for staff, with volunteers on the day – last Carnival I think we had 63 volunteers across the site, and we needed them.”

How does she balance the need for revenues with keeping the vibe, values and spirit – or in cruder terms, how does Carnival avoid selling out?

“I was talking to a colleague recently about who we would be prepared to take money from, and who we wouldn’t take money from. Carnival comes out of the heart of a protest, about African Caribbean people. I would never be comfortable taking money from any organisations that aren’t congruent with those values and that space.

“Sometimes I think everyone talks about morals from a higher perspective, which is really easy to do, but when it actually comes to making action on the ground, and making people’s lives better, what are we going to do? The short answer is we wouldn’t do it at any cost, but if you’re willing to bend to what we represent, then we’ll have a conversation.”

Some would argue the case for taking money from anybody, if it’s going to be converted to good.

“It’s probably not quite my stance, but I totally get that”, she says, acknowledging that while it’s important to have principles that frame how you do business, it shouldn’t be to the extent of going out of business because your morals are so lofty.

Switching it round – what’s in it for Carnival’s corporate sponsors – the Hargreaves Lansdowns, for example, or the Osborne Clarkes?

“I think there are lots of things in it for them. A lot of our supporters are interested in providing a corporate social responsibility experience to their employees via volunteering experiences.

“We work with 16 schools, and organisations interested in our secondary schools pupils can start talking to them about career choices. So linking those organisations that don’t have a foothold in the community, with our community

providing those opportunities for our young people, it helps to grow much more inclusive organisations across the city.”

For any businesses reading this feature, how would LaToyah like to see them get involved?

“I won’t pretend that it’s not sponsorship, but we don’t want just money. And what we find with our corporates is that they will be happy to support a float, or, you know, whatever, on Carnival day. But the reason why they’re involved with us is because they want that added value, which is about what happens after carnival. A careers fair. Legal surgeries around IP for the artists we work with.

“We’ve had organisations which have printed our T shirts for us. Others have printed our programmes – that’s worth six grand. That’s a lot of money to take off. It’s an effective donation. So there are lots of gifts, and your time, your expertise. You know these are things that really mean a lot to community organisations.”

For more: www.stpaulscarnival.net

LaToyah speaking at the Network Lunch at Harbour Hotel

FORMER GYMSHARK CEO STEVE HEWITT INSPIRES AT ENTRECONF

“ “ “ “ “ “ Headline

At EntreConf, Steve Hewitt – ex-CEO of Gymshark – delivered a high-energy session on Ridingthe Unicorn:BuildingaBillion-DollarBrand. He shared Gymshark’s meteoric rise: from seven staff and £4M revenue to a £500M global fitness brand. Packed with straight-talking insights, it was a masterclass in scaling fast, staying focused, and building with purpose.

I describe founders in two words: magical chaos

The key message I want everyone to take away from my talk is around flying in formation, making sure every person is aligned in an organisation

One bit of advice I wish I’d got when I was younger in my career, was understanding that vulnerability in terms of leadership is a superpower

EntreConf was a MediaClash production which ran on 18 and 19 of June at Watershed, other speakers included Christian Owens, Amy Golding and Tim Edwards. With over 300 attendees, it proved to be the best mind spa for those wanting new thinking, inspiration and great new connections.

Above are the three big ideas we’re taking away from a lively, thought-provoking session.

To get involved with our Awards at Aerospace, Bristol on 2 October please contact annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk

Scan here for Steve’s YouTube talk

Scan here for the EntreConf Awards

JOURNEY TO THE JOB

PHIL CRACKNELL

The chief information security officer at IP PERFORMANCE looks back on a career in cyber security spanning well over 35 years

Istarted out as a 19-year-old at BT, working on a multitasking operating system, which was a first of its kind in the UK”, says Phil. “Years later, I moved on to teaching over 3,000 security engineers the fundamentals of what is now cyber security in the UK, US and Europe.”

Tell us about a few career highlights to date

After various other technical security roles, I became the chief information security o cer CISO for Nomura, a apanese investment bank based in London, seeing the bank safely through the illennium Bug’ and countless cyber attacks. I then crossed over to the consulting ladder and served for two years as director of security and privacy for eloitte, before becoming the head of compliance for Skype.

In 2018, a call came to become subject-matter expert for the UK Government’s cabinet o ce; certainly one of the more challenging assignments I’ve ever done. Specifically, the mission was to develop a mechanism to audit the top 30 government departments, including 20 ministerial departments in terms of their cyber-security readiness.

How did you discover IP Performance?

As a leading network infrastructure and cyber security service provider, I joined IP Performance on a parttime basis back in 2019 when the company was looking for a virtual CISO for one of its customers, Great Western Railway. With my previous experience of rail operators and completion of the Network and Information Systems Cyber Assessment Framework, this was

perfectly timed. Alongside my role at IP Performance, I got the opportunity to work for a inistry of efence contractor who made drone boats’ for the Navy three days a week. I moved to Hamworthy in Poole where one of the threeletter special forces units was based. Being in that region allowed me to be hands-on in this CISO role and in the o ce three days a week.

Tell us about the Cyber Breach Workshop for businesses

Six years on, and my role at IP Performance has brought such personal satisfaction. We have delivered the workshop to over 150 organisations, and this is our third year as a chosen supplier to the Welsh government to provide a customised workshop for each of the 22 councils and national resilience centres. The investment in the Cyber Breach Workshop, including developers to build the emulator application, enabling real-world simulation of cyber breach scenarios, has been second-to-none.

Why should businesses care about cyber security?

The Information Commissioner’s O ce will fine an organisation more if found to be negligent in putting adequate security in place; that’s what you pay a CISO or head of security for. A CISO will demonstrate the risks to your leadership, the impact to your business, and the cost of mitigation. If you don’t have a CISO, or you don’t listen to them and take their advice, then you are on borrowed time before you face a cyber-attack. It sounds alarmist, but the facts and cases of data breaches speak for themselves.

What’s your advice when it comes to warning companies about a cyber breach?

Please don’t think it won’t happen to

“IF YOU DON’T HAVE A CISO YOU ARE ON BORROWED TIME BEFORE YOU FACE A CYBER ATTACK”

you. Brainstorm and workshop with your management team on exactly what bad things could happen. Understanding what is possible will allow you to start thinking of how you would prevent it.

Initially during a breach, the organisation will suffer some level of operational failure systems won’t boot, users can’t login, web pages will be blank, and the supply chain will break. Then the company may start to feel the pinch financially with shareholder value dropping, regulatory fines or additional services and resources that will need to be brought in. Unless you have cyber insurance, you may have to pay for this resource. I would advise every company to have expert breach handlers/responders on a retainer as part of a cyber insurance package.

When not deterring cyber criminals, how do you relax?

Alongside my daily role, I follow two of my passions the sea and fishing. Since moving to the Somerset coast with my wife, I gained my boat licence, joined the Coastguard and go fishing most weeks.

For more: www.ip-performance.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

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BRIDGING THE GAP

TRISH JOHNSON

The first female bridge master at Clifton Suspension Bridge looks at the importance of gender equality in engineering

Trish is a chartered civil engineer and fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) with over 35 years’ experience as an engineer specialising in bridges.

Having lived in Bristol all her working life, Clifton Suspension Bridge holds a special place in her heart. She says that the role of bridge master is truly varied, and it is this diversity that she loves, as she and the team work tirelessly to maintain Bristol’s most famous icon.

“The Clifton Suspension Bridge stands as one of Bristol’s most well-known landmarks and a symbol of engineering brilliance and civic pride”, she says.

“Since opening in 1864, this iconic structure has been more than just a bridge across the Avon Gorge. It’s a link between generations, a testament to innovation, resilience, and heritage that continues to inspire today. Each year, the Bridge museum attracts over 70,000 visitors to marvel at the story of Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s masterpiece.

“As the first female bridge master in its 160-year history, I’ve had the privilege of overseeing its maintenance and preservation for the past nine years. My role involves managing the day-to-day operations, supporting the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust, and ensuring this Grade-I structure continues to serve the city safely and sustainably.

“Annual awareness days such as International Women in Engineering

ay, this year on 23 une, offered a timely opportunity for us all to reflect not only on how far we’ve come but also how much there is still to achieve when it comes to meaningful gender equality; particularly within the South West’s engineering and heritage sectors.

“Despite our region’s rich legacy of innovation and infrastructure, across the UK women remain significantly under-represented in engineering roles. Change is underway to shape a future for engineering and heritage that is as inclusive as it is innovative.”

Navigating the industry

“My journey into engineering began over 35 years ago, driven by curiosity and a love for problem-solving.

of South West regional director for the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), a professional membership body that supports and represents civil engineers worldwide. In 2016, I was appointed bridge master of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, a role that allows me to combine my technical expertise with leadership and public service.”

I’ve spent much of my career in the South West, managing bridge o ces and leading major infrastructure projects, including work on the Severn Crossing. Despite having no family background in engineering, I found my path through handson experience and the support of forward-thinking employers.

“After becoming a chartered engineer and later a divisional director, I eventually took on the role

Preserving a Bristol icon “Today, I’m leading one of the largest restoration projects in the bridge’s history, focused on safeguarding its original suspension chains for the next 25 years. It’s an absolute pleasure to contribute to Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s legacy and ensure this landmark continues to inspire future generations.

“The bridge is more than a feat of engineering brilliance; it’s a living part of Bristol’s identity. It’s also a powerful platform to highlight the importance of diversity in the sector. Currently, engineering is still a largely maledominated field, with women making up just 15.7% of the workforce.

“ICE recently reported a mean gender pay gap of over 20% across its workforce. These figures reflect

“GENDER EQUALITY IN ENGINEERING ISN’T JUST ABOUT FAIRNESS, IT’S ABOUT INNOVATION”

the urgent need for targeted action through mentorship, inclusive recruitment, and visible leadership –an area I’m passionate about.”

Inspiring the next generation

“I’ve been mentoring and supporting women in STEM through the Women Like Me programme since 2023. By working with aspiring engineers across the South West, I help them navigate their careers and build confidence in their abilities.

“Progress is visible; ICE’s female membership has doubled in the last 15 years, but we must keep pushing. Representation matters. When young women see someone like them in a leadership role, it helps them build confidence in what is possible, increasing aspirations towards doors they may not have previously considered.”

A more inclusive future “Gender equality in engineering isn’t just about fairness, it’s about innovation. Diverse teams bring broader perspectives, better solutions, and stronger outcomes.

“As we face complex challenges such as climate change and infrastructure resilience, we need all the diversity of thinking and perspectives. Bristol and the wider South West are home to a vibrant engineering community, and I believe we can lead the way in creating a more inclusive, forwardthinking industry. By investing in education, mentorship, and inclusive workplace cultures, we can ensure that engineering is a career where everyone can thrive.

“I hope my story encourages others to pursue their passions, challenge expectations, and help shape the future of engineering from Bristol and beyond.”

For more: www.cliftonbridge.org.uk

SQUARE DEAL

The Square Club’s secret garden is one of our very favourite places to hold a summer reception. Big thanks to the club for hosting us, and thanks to everyone who came along!

Photos by @JonCraig_Photos

FREMANTLE ROAD

Ice-cream-coloured terraces and a sleepy, villagey air, yet with easy access to all the city’s hotspots – very few Bristol postcodes can match the appeal of Cotham

Words by Ursula Cole

When praising the colourful terraces of Bristol, most of the attention tends to be lavished on Cliftonwood and Totterdown –perhaps unfairly at the expense of, say,

Kingsdown, which more than pull their weight in the pretty-in-pastel stakes. Just looking at their elegant Grade-II Victorian facades makes you think of Swoon Gelato: mmm, pistachio, peach, raspberry – or perhaps the full Neopolitan monty? And when teamed with a jaunty striped iron awning, like the ones on this Fremantle Road row, the area is right up there with the most appealing corners in the city.

Built in 1842, number 21 (moreno cherry, we reckon) blends historic charm with a light and versatile living space. Already more than picturesque thanks to its canopy and ground-floor verandah, both of which lend the home a coastal feel that suggests a lovely day out at, say, Lyme Regis, the approach to the house is further enhanced by the leafy front garden which divides it from the street.

Stone steps lead to the front door, and on into a hallway which opens to two beautifully decorated living rooms. The period details and generous proportions make for a warm and welcoming atmosphere, while the original folding wedding doors’ offer versatility; when they’re open, the rooms are especially bright thanks to large sash windows at each end. There’s ornate cornicing and

a working fireplace for character and charm, and soft carpeting underfoot for luxury. o original wooden floorboards lie beneath We have no idea, but in houses such as these they nearly always do.

The lower ground floor is a real charmer, too, the heritage-coloured walls of the dining room setting off the restored slate flagstone flooring and another working fireplace. It’s a little early to be considering such things, but we can’t help picturing how delightful it would be to host Christmas dinner here, especially as the adjacent kitchen is e ually appealing with its neutral cabinetry, striking red tiled splashback, open shelving and garden views.

oarders rejoice; you really wont; be stuck for storage here, as there’s another built-in cupboard in the hallway, and space underneath the stairs currently put to use as a utility area.

As you head up to the top two floors, the views from the front of the house get better and better, stretching across Bristol and, on a clear day, all the way over to the edge of the Cotswolds. There are four bedrooms in all, served by a pair of shower rooms.

If you aren’t already won over by the lovely interior, and it’s hard to imagine how you wouldn’t be, the back garden will seal the deal. It’s a proper sanctuary. The lower decked area includes the cleverly concealed outdoor bathtub you never knew you needed, but now desperately want a playful and indulgent feature rarely found in the city. Two further sunny, south west-facing terraces

are beautifully planted, offering a mix of spaces for uiet coffee mornings or noisier summer evening gatherings. A door in the wall opens to a back lane.

Location wise, it’s serious box-ticker, being within easy reach of Bristol’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Being positioned between Stokes Croft and Cotham ill, some of the city’s best independent restaurants are within a fiveminute walk away you could practically roll down but admittedly not back up the hill to Bulrush, for example.

espite being so close to such urban delights, the area retains an almost sleepy backstreet feel; it’s not too fanciful to picture it back when it was largely rural a charming setting to set off a charming home.

HOUSE NUMBERS

Where? Cotham

Guide price£1,050,000

Bedrooms 4

Bath/shower rooms 2

Receptions 3

Outside Enviably lovely garden with sitting areas and hidden bathtub

Call my agent Elephant, 0117 370 0557 www.elephantlovesbristol. co.uk

BRISTOL LIVES

CHARLES HAZLEWOOD

The founder, artistic director and conductor of Paraorchestra returns to Bristol Beacon this month for a unique collaboration with The Breath, as part of the BBC Proms 2025

Charles decided he wanted a career in music when he was five years old, after joining a church choir.

“The turning point was when my voice broke”, he says. “It was like my world collapsed. I was a successful chorister; it was like my whole identity was shattered.

“I dumped all my classical buddies, stopped classical singing and jumped in a punk band from the age of 12 to 1 . When I was 15, I suddenly decide to go to a choir rehearsal, 100-strong. The choir director didn’t show, and I was so bored I decided to stand in the middle of the room to direct the choir. In that moment, I knew it was what I was meant to do.”

Some music I loved at an early age was ABBA, the organ music of JS Bach and the Japanese electronic music wizard Tomita.

If I could only listen to the work of just one composer, it would be ozart. e’s my guide, he’s my salvation. When I was at boarding school at 11, I was so unhappy, so isolated, I listened

to ozart under the covers; he saved my life.

My daughter has cerebral palsy, and I wondered why I hadn’t come across disabled musicians in any orchestras. The Paralympics were coming to London in 2012, a oncein-a-lifetime moment when the eyes of the world were on our community, to shine a light on the issue and bring about wholesale change. So I formed the first iteration of Paraorchestra; at that point around 18 astonishing musicians who identified as disabled. With a lot of screaming, shouting and shoving I managed to persuade the powers that be that we should play a leading role in the 2012 Paralympics. That was the beginning of what has been a glorious journey.

The corporate world complains about diversity, because it seems like hard work; there will be a drop in productivity, or they will have to make space’ for people who aren’t uite like them. Try and

“Bristol is somewhere where slightly unusual ideas can incubate”

the Bristol Beacon, with whom we have a relationship as an associate artist. We never grow tired of Bristol, and hope Bristol never tires of us.

think about it in a different way. If you have a diverse group of people from different backgrounds, you will ultimately have much greater productivity because the world operates much better when we are not just sitting alongside people just like us.

I was never interested in creating a ghetto for disabled musicians. I wanted to create an orchestra that was a more accurate reflection of the world, of society, if you factor in that 20% of people identify as disabled. To overlook that is to undervalue people and is a waste of talent.

The Breath are an astonishing duo whom I first saw play when they supported us at a show we were doing in anchester. Nothing prepares you for seeing them live. They are storytellers, wall-of-sound-makers, they are psychedelic so much more than a folk troupe, which is the label they are subsumed into. I find labels frustrating, limiting. I wanted to see if we could add value by collaborating with them, and we’re so excited that the Proms has given us the platform to do so.

I love Bristol for its leftfieldness, its contrarianism. It’s somewhere where slightly unusual ideas can incubate. Bristol has taken Paraorchestra to its heart, lifted it up, supported it and been delighted by it, and we have flourished, particularly with

The renovation of Bristol Beacon has changed everything. Everyone was fond of the old building, everyone played there, but we all knew it needed an overhaul. None of us was prepared for what a world-class overhaul it would be; we now have a concert hall that’s as good as any in Tokyo, Stockholm and San Francisco. It’s a remarkable space which can adapt to any kind of performance large or small, immersive. A worldclass concert hall within our community.

Any secret skills? I make banging kimchi

My most regrettable habit? I was an obsessive smoker, now I’m an obsessive vaper. I’d rather not be.

The piece of advice I’d give to my younger self would be to be yourself; don’t ever try to be like anyone else. ust rejoice in what is uni uely yours. I spent the first 10 years of my career thinking I would be better or more successful if I was a bit like someone else. There was a specific day when I realised I was never going to be better’, but I would be uni ue, I would conduct Beethoven uni uely. If I’d known that from the age of 1 , I would probably have had a smoother ride.

Paraorchestra and The Breath play Bristol Beacon on 22 August www.bristolbeacon.org