If you only had one hour to give an outof-town friend an idea of what makes Bristol, Bristol, you wouldn’t take them up to the Suspension Bridge or on a whistlestop tour of the street art.
You’d take them down to the harbour. Maybe give them a bit of old chat about its maritime history, both the good and the bad stuff. You might even pontificate for a bit – I know I always do – about why ports are the most interesting cities to live in, possessing a diverse, multi-ethnic populace created by centuries of comings and goings. While Bristol is no longer a hub of global shipping, I firmly believe the culture this nurtured lingers on; in this city, all are welcome.
The purpose of the harbour may have changed but it’s just as vital to the city. The postindustrial wasteland of the 1970s waterfront has been transformed, its old warehouses and sheds repurposed as hospitality and cultural destinations – a vibrant, mixed-use community, still a little rough round the edges, perhaps, but we like it that way.
The timing of our features on the harbour turned out to be perfect, with final plans for Wapping Wharf North having just been approved. Feel sad to see the blue shipping containers go? They were never built for permanence, and after speaking to developer Stuart Hatton of Umberslade, and hearing the views of some of the traders, we’re reassured.
I say ‘features’, not ‘feature’ – that’s right, the harbourside is so good we wrote about it twice. Incidentally, we’ve chosen to spell it with the lower case ‘h’. Many long-term harbour folk dislike the trendier new capitalised H, and I think I get it.
Anchors away, I’ll see you in May.
DERI ROBINS
Trains and boats and cranes – and what’s happening with the shipping containers, again?
Bristol Life editor @BristolLifeMag
Issue 381 / April 2026
ON THE COVER Team Gambas, by @joncraig_photos
HARBOURSIDE
8 ON THE WATERFRONT Wharf zone
18 CARGO Here is the shipping news
ARTS
25 BRISTOL LIFE LOVES Lily at the Beacon
26 WHAT’S ON The sap of the cultural scene is rising
34 THEATRE A show all kids should probably see
38 BRISTOL HEROES All we are saying, is give dogs a chance
FOOD & FESTS
44 RESTAURANT Bristol’s favourite prawn stars
49 CAFÉ SOCIETY The latest caff to make the Cut
51 WINE Puglia scrumptiousness
LIFESTYLE
52 ED’S CHOICE Vanilla, but not in a boring way
56 INTERIORS Your very own great escape
BUSINESS
73 NETWORK Cracking charity, lad, and the latest news from Brabazon
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
TV
GONE GIRL
Bristol-filmed dramas are two-a-penny these days, but the latest, ITV’s new thriller Gone, is worth a few hours of your time.
Here’s the premise. Buttoned-up headmaster Michael Polly (David Morrissey)’s wife has disappeared. He’s the obvious suspect, but Det Annie Cassidy (Eve Myles) becomes increasingly unconvinced that he’s her man . . .
The series was filmed in and around the city in 2025, with production at The Bottle Yard Studios, and unlike many Bristolshot dramas it doesn’t pretend to be anywhere else. In fact, just in case we forget where we are, a new shot of the Suspension Bridge pops up very five minutes, but given that most of the action is ostensibly set in Abbot’s Leigh this most predictable of Bristol boxtickers is semi-justified.
Bristol Film Office facilitated shooting at locations which include a café on Queen Square Avenue, a restaurant on Queen’s Road, Downside School and Berkeley Square, but don’t go trying to report your lost property at ‘Redland Police Station’, because that’s not a thing, and you’ll only confuse the students at the union bar.
Myles and Morrissey are at their absolute best, which is saying a lot, and even if the twist does become fairly obvious by episode five it doesn’t detract from the fun in the least. www.filmbristol.co.uk
Conservation THIS COUNTRY
Bristol Youth Orchestra have worked with countryside charity CPRE to create a one-night musical tribute to the landscapes of England. Called Concert for the Countryside, it takes place at Bristol Beacon on Sunday 29 March and marks a century of campaigning to protect our rural heritage through a programme inspired by the natural world, including works by Vaughan Williams, Elgar and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor.
As the music unfolds, film footage of Britain’s countryside, from the 1920s to today, will roll behind the orchestra, charting everything from rural traditions to modern environmental challenges.
After the concert, the musicians and volunteers will plant 100 native trees on publicly accessible land in Lower Chew Forest. This new Centenary Woodland Grove will contribute to biodiversity while supporting the CPRE’s wider Hedgerow Heroes restoration campaign. More at www.bristolbeacon.org
Bristol Zoo WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE
Bristol Zoo Project is about to open one of the most highly anticipated habitats at its new site.
On 1 April, the Zoo will unveil the African Forest, a new woodland enclosure designed to house some of the world’s most endangered animals. The star residents are the zoo’s Western Lowland gorillas, who will return to public view for the first time since Bristol Zoo Gardens shut its old Clifton site in 2022.
The apes will be housed beneath a natural tree canopy in surroundings designed to echo the forests of Equatorial Guinea, where Bristol’s conservation teams help to protect gorillas in the wild. And they won’t be alone; the habitat will also be home to cherry-crowned mangabeys (another endangered primate) making this one of the first mixed environments of its kind in a UK zoo. There are also slender-snouted crocodiles, African grey parrots rescued from the wildlife trade, and a display of threatened West African freshwater fish.
The opening will also pay tribute to Jock, the troop’s much-loved silverback, who died shortly after moving to the site. www.bristolzoo.org.uk/visit/african-forest
The spirit of Jock lives on in the new enclosure
Gone: putting the suspense into the Suspension Bridge (or vice versa)
Now Grade-II-listed, just four of the working 1950s electric cranes outside M Shed remain from the original 40. They can, on occasion, be persuaded to dance
SEA CHANGE
Bristol: city of seafarers, adventurers and pirates – and of engineering geniuses who tamed a wild, tidal estuary and created a safe harbour. Its heyday as a working dockyard may be past, but that same Bristol ingenuity has resurfaced once again to create of the most successful waterfront regenerations in the UK
Words by DERI ROBINS
Photos by ALEXANDER JAMES
Not all cities have a wide stretch of water at their heart – they may have a river, if they’re lucky, or a network of canals, but not a proper, honest-to-goodness harbour. But Bristol has, and it’s impossible to imagine the place without it.
It may have resembled a derelict dockland graveyard in the mid-1970s, but today it’s the city’s leisure go-to. It’s the perfect circuit for a run or an easy-likeSunday-morning amble. It’s the bit we always show off to visiting friends.
It’s also a reminder of why Bristol flourished in the first place. We are indivisible from our maritime history, an industry that brought big ships sailing right into the city centre: this created on the one hand a quality that’s unique to ports, an outward, open-minded spirit borne of constant comings and goings. On the other hand it left a permanent sense of civic shame over the part it played in the slave trade.
Whereas some cities have razed their nautical heritage to the ground, much of Bristol’s has been preserved through a mostly successful regeneration programme, with many of the old sheds and warehouses repurposed as restaurants and cultural centres. The water’s still teeming, too; it’s just that now the craft are mostly made up of cheerful little yellow ferries, barges, heritage M Shed vessels on harbour trips, and the tireless watersport brigade with their SUPs and rowing boats.
Technically the floating harbour extends from Junction Lock in the west to Netham Lock in the east, but for the purpose of this feature we’ll take a tour of the central part, from Cascade Steps to Underfalll Yard.
FIRST, WHAT MAKES THE HARBOUR SO SPECIAL?
“There’s a reason why people love the seaside, where air, land and water meet. Well, by the harbour that happens too, but with the added layers of colourful houses scattered right up to the sky. The views come in layers, and in the summer it’s a perfect place to find a pontoon and chill.”
Colin Moody, photographer and Hotwells resident
“For us at ss Great Britain, right at the heart of it all, the harbourside is in our DNA. The historic dry dock where the ship rests is as central to her tale as the original iron hull you can now walk beneath.”
Kate Chaffey, ss Great Britain
“For me, it’s the mix of energy and ease. You’ve got the water, the light, the movement, but it never feels too polished or overdone. The harbour still has a bit of grit and character, which is part of Bristol’s charm.”
Dan O’Regan, Lapin
“The harbourside has a quiet kind of magic. Colourful sunsets reflecting on the water, boats drifting slowly past and the gentle rhythm of the river create an atmosphere that feels both calm and alive. It’s one of those places where the city naturally slows down and people gather. On warm evenings it almost feels Mediterranean: relaxed, social and beautifully atmospheric”
Irena Luzyanina, New Moon on the Quay.
“To me what makes Bristol’s harbourside so special is that it always reflects the mood of the wider city. The atmosphere of the harbour
ON THE WATERFRONT
changes with the rhythms of daily life and seasons and so always reflects what Bristol itself is feeling at that moment. As a natural route through the city you can always feel the movement of people along the water.”
Ruby, Bristol Packet
AND YOUR FAVOURITE ASPECT ABOUT THE PLACE?
“Beyond being the ultimate dog-watching spot, being by the water gives you a real slice of what makes Bristol, Bristol. The harbourside is a wonderful crossroads where everyone piles in: commuters zipping past on bikes, artists scouting inspiration, joggers taking the scenic route. Some use the water’s edge as a pit stop, grabbing a coffee, catching their breath, or simply soaking up the views. Wander a little further and you’ll find people drifting between museums, galleries and staples of heritage, such as our very own site. And for anyone meandering from the city centre toward Spike Island, the harbourside becomes an idyllic detour.”
Kate Chaffey, ss Great Britain
“Is it OK to say our terrace? I just love the fact that we’re a level up, so slightly away from the busyness below, but still able to watch the action. I love the view up Gaol Ferry Steps, and the goldfinches in the trees.”
Tess Lidstone, Box-E
“The number of cultural venues: We the Curious, Arnolfini, M Shed and Spike Island, and, of course, Watershed. Also, the vibrant food and drink scene, bringing lots of smaller independents to the area.”
Laura Knight, Watershed
“Its public nature; the quay walls are free for everyone to enjoy. On summer evenings local musicians set up their instruments and perform for passers-by. These activities create a sense of community, and this shared use is what makes the quayside a special place.”
Ruby, Bristol Packet
“Bristol’s maritime history gave it a quality that’s unique to ports: an outward, open- minded spirit, borne of constant comings and goings”
John Cabot left Bristol on The Matthew in 1947 and proceeded to ‘discover’ North America. He looks like he wishes he hadn’t bothered
WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU SEEN DOWN THE YEARS?
“More fairy lights! Just when you thought the area had reached peakfairy light, more arrived. To be clear: I am here for this.”
Tess Lidstone, Box-E
“I’ve seen the harbourside change massively over the years – mostly for the positive. I started working there at The Olive Shed when I was about 19 years old, when it was quite literally a storage shed surrounded by industrial buildings. You had to access it by an old dirt track. Looking back now, I actually loved its grittiness.”
Josh Eggleton, Salt & Malt and Root
“One of the most positive changes in recent years has been the introduction of reed beds at Capricorn Quay. The harbour area lacks natural green spaces, so these provide an important habitat and safe space for wildlife on the water. Passengers on our boat trips particularly enjoy passing this area, as it offers close-up views of the wildlife.”
Ruby, Bristol Packet
“The growth of Wapping Wharf has been transformative for neighbouring businesses and organisations. It’s brought a brilliant independent food and social scene right to our doorstep, drawing in a younger, more local crowd to this end of the harbour.”
Kate Chaffey, ss Great Britain
“The biggest positive has been watching Wapping Wharf mature without losing its identity. It’s become one of the best showcases
for independent hospitality and retail in Bristol, and that’s a huge achievement. Looking ahead, the next phase of development feels like a major turning point. Change always brings nerves, but it also brings opportunity, and I think there’s every chance to build on what makes this area special, if it’s done thoughtfully.”
Dan O’Regan, Lapin
TELL US ABOUT A FEW FAVOURITE PLACES
“Gambas is a real favourite; it feels lively, generous and consistently good. Root and Mokoko are brilliant to have nearby too, and New Cut Coffee really adds to the rhythm of the area. That’s the joy of Wapping Wharf: you can wander a short distance and find great food, coffee and independent businesses all around you, which is part of what makes it feel more like a neighbourhood than a food quarter. We’re also really proud to be neighbours with The Watershed.”
Lauren Poole, No 1 Harbourside
“I find it very difficult to walk past Gambas without going in for the awesome pil pil prawns! Also, Arnolfini is always on my route whenever I’m walking about, along with cocktails at The Architect, and obviously I love catching a film at Watershed whenever I can.”
Laura Knight, Watershed
“The team has been known to grab a hearty toastie or salad from Emmeline, the café at Spike Island – also a great opportunity to check out its latest (free!) art exhibitions. When the weather’s good, you’ll find us at Coffee Club at Hanover Place, basking in the sunshine close to Banksy’s Girl with a Pearl Earring. And for a Monday morning pick-meup, we indulge in Mokoko’s croissants which are genuinely as big as your head. And I must give a shout out to our amazing gift shop here at ss Great Britain. We have an incredible retail team who hand-select gorgeous items.”
Kate Chaffey, ss Great Britain
The 19th-century Fairbairn steam crane is the oldest surviving one of its kind in Britain, and a Scheduled Ancient Monument
“The harbour still has a bit of grit and character, which is part of Bristol’s charm”
“Brunel’s Buttery – it seems to traverse everything in terms of character and people. Love their bacon sandwiches and big mugs of tea. Also you can get Bristol Beer Factory beers at either side of the water, at Junction or Arnolfini’s Harbourside Café-Bar. Best spots for a pint with a view.
Josh Eggleton, Salt & Malt, Root, Bristol Beer
“Greenshank. Located in a quieter part of the harbour, this floating bar offers a unique place to relax and watch the world go by. Because it’s only open from May to September, it feels a bit like summer itself –something you want to enjoy as much as possible while it lasts.”
Ruby, Bristol Packet
“Although our side of the harbour has traditionally been a little quieter than the opposite bank, in summer something special happens. With terraces open, music drifting outside and the water only a few steps away, the atmosphere feels like a small corner of Ibiza.”
Irena Luzyanina , New Moon on the Quay.
AND WHAT WOULD MAKE THE AREA EVEN BETTER?
“Better connections across the harbour. If you’re on the opposite side of the water it can still be quite a long walk around to reach us. A pedestrian bridge or a later-running ferry would link both sides in just a few minutes and bring the whole waterfront closer together.”
Irena Luzyanina, New Moon on the Quay.
“More of the same, done carefully. Protecting the independent DNA of the area is the main thing. That’s what people come for, and what gives it its identity. Good public realm matters too; more greenery, better weather protection, more places to sit and linger, and making sure the area stays easy and enjoyable to move through.”
Dan O’Regan, Lapin
“Like many city centres, the challenge is keeping it welcoming and independent rather than overly polished or uniform. Bristol’s character comes from its individuality, so protecting space for independent venues and local creativity is key.”
Lauren Poole, No 1 Harbourside
“Wapping Wharf has all the classic village shops, so it needs a post office to round it off. I really miss Hayley’s lovely flower shop, too.”
Tess Lidstone, Box-E
“More green space! As beautiful as the waterside is, it is still dominated by concrete, so extra greenery would make the area even better. At Bristol Packet we keep several flower beds around our office, showing how much even small pockets of nature can enhance the harbour.”
Ruby, Bristol Packet
TELL US A FUN FACT
“The harbour discreetly flushes itself like a giant toilet. The harbour looks calm, but beneath the surface there’s a clever Victorian system keeping it ticking over.”
Kate Chaffey, ss Great Britain
“There used to be powerboat racing in Bristol Docks right up until 1990, with boats racing through the narrow course reaching speeds of more than 100mph. That’s crazy!”
Amelia Hodge, Pure Yoga
“In the 1400s, William Canynges the Younger was Bristol’s most successful merchant. Will had a fleet of nine ships crewed by 800 sailors – about a fifth of the entire adult male population of Bristol.”
Matthew Price, photographer and tour guide
“An area in Manhattan, New York, called Bristol Basin, was built from stone and bricks from Bristol homes destroyed during the Second World War. Enterprising Bristolians sold the rubble as ship ballast for journeys to the US. When the ships arrived in Manhattan, the debris was offloaded into the East River, creating land that became Bristol Basin. It’s amazing to think part of Bristol lives on across the Atlantic!”
Ruby, Bristol Packet
ART & CULTURE
Harbourside punches way above its weight when it comes to its concentration of cultural centres.
Indie cinema Watershed has just been voted by Time Out as one of the top 100 cinemas in the world. As well as its adventurous programming it hosts festivals such as Cinema Rediscovered, Queer Eye and Encounters.
Did you know?: It was the UK’s first true media centre, opening in 1982.
Arnolfini hosts big contemporary art exhibitions along with performance, dance, film and music events.
Did you know? The first version of the gallery was opened in 1961 above a Clifton bookshop by three artists, all aged under 25, who contributed just £100 each to secure the lease.
A museum dedicated to the story of Bristol, M Shed on Princes Wharf opened in 2011 within a repurposed 1950s transit shed, replacing what was formerly the Industrial Museum.
Did you know?: The M stands for its original location in the dockside, not for ‘museum’. Its attractions include the world’s oldest surviving steam tug, The Mayflower, and the only working electric cranes of their kind in England.
Home to over 70 artists, Spike Island shows free contemporary art exhibitions featuring painting, sculpture, film, and installation.
Did you know?: It only became an ‘island’ in the early 1800s due to engineering, and then ceased to be a true one during World War II.
The Architecture Centre (now Design West) on Narrow Quay in Bristol has rotating, free exhibitions focused on urban design. Did you know?: It was created in 1996 as a ‘riposte’ to the closure of the city’s architectural school, keeping debate alive.
The ss Great Britain and adjacent Brunel Museum offers a chance to explore Brunel’s legendary steamship and historic dockyard. Today the hull is kept in a glass-enclosed, dehumidified dry dock to prevent rust.
Did you know?: Upon its 1843 launch, the ship was called ‘The greatest experiment since the Creation’.
We the Curious is an award-winning science museum with 200+ playful interactive exhibits and the UK’s only public 3D Planetarium, Did you know?: it was the first science centre in the world to declare a climate emergency, and has made a pledge to become carbon neutral by 2030.
Currently rebuilding after the fire in 2023, Underfall Yard allows you to explore the story of the Floating Harbour through hands-on displays. It’s also still a working boatyard.
Did you know?:The ‘Human Accumulator’ explains hydraulic power in just two minutes, as visitors enter the accumulator drum to act as 80 tonnes of scrap metal.
ALL HANDS ON DECK
Few events capture the Bristol spirit quite like HARBOUR FESTIVAL. From 17-19 July this year the harbourside will once again fill with music, boats and crowds lining the quays as one of Bristol’s longest-running celebrations takes over the waterfront.
But beyond the live acts and street food stalls, the Harbour Festival also has more than five decades of stories, oddities and memorable moments behind it.
IT ALL STARTED WITH A FIGHT FOR THE HARBOUR
The first festival took place in 1971, during a heated debate about the future of Bristol’s docks. What began partly as a campaign to save the harbour has grown into the city’s biggest free festival.
ITS MOST FIERCELY CONTESTED SPORTING EVENT IS…
… the Cardboard Boat Race. Teams launch homemade vessels made entirely from cardboard onto the harbour and attempt to make it to the finish line. Some find success, others flounder, everyone cheers.
MADE IN BRISTOL
The Harbour View main stage flies the
flag for Bristol music. The Made in Bristol takeover on Sunday shines a spotlight on the city’s homegrown heroes, giving festivalgoers the chance to catch some of their favourite local acts in one place.
WHEN THE BOAT COMES IN
Historic tall ships have long been part of the Harbour Festival. Galeón Andalucía visited last year, following in the wake of Rene, Iris and Kaskelot – not forgetting Bristol’s own tall ship, The Matthew.
EAT, DRINK BRISTOL
What could be better than sippin’ at the dock of a bay? While dining at the harbourside has become synonymous with Cargo (see page 18) there are dozens of other dining and drinking options. New Moon on the Quay serves seasonal tapas; the recently reopened Olive Shed is the city’s OG Mediterranean tapas destination; Riverstation and Harbour House have two of the nicest terraces in the city; No I Harbourside offers casual dining right next to the busy harbour; Rick’s Café serves cocktails with bygone-age charm; Grain Barge offers the ultimate nautical experience of dinner on a boat; Pump House in Hotwells serves sophisticated gastropub fare, and Adelina Yard on Welsh Back is one of the best restaurants in the city. Classic pubs such as Nova Scotia give a sense of old, seafaring Bristol,and along with The Shakespeare, The Ostrich and The Cottage offer lovely waterfront views, while on a sunny day you can’t beat al-frescoing at Arnolfini café bar.
THE HARBOUR IS EVERYTHING
NOT EVERY VOYAGE GOES TO PLAN
In 1996, when the festival hosted the first International Festival of the Sea, the sail training ship Royalist ran aground while navigating the Avon Gorge. It was later refloated without damage.
This year’s festival stretches along the waterfront from Thekla to Underfall Yard, with activity popping up at harbourside favourites including M Shed, Cascade Steps, the ss Great Britain and Brunel Square. From dockside performances to floating spectacles, the harbour itself will become the festival’s biggest stage.
www.bristolharbourfestival.co.uk
Sun is in the sky, oh why oh why would you wanna be anywhere else? Arnolfini Café-Bar
HERE IS THE SHIPPING NEWS
When the blue containers of CARGO first docked at Wapping Wharf they changed the face of Harbourside. So, what does the future hold?
PHOTO BY CHRIS HILL
If you look at old pictures of Harbourside – not even 100 years ago, try 10 – it’s just plain weird to see the gap where Cargo 1 and 2 now stand. Remember when this was just a gravel pit? A scruffy cut-through, where the prison used to be?
Of course, Cargo, the converted shipping containers which now house some of Bristol’s best independent restaurants, cafés, bars and shops – is only part of Umberslade’s Wapping Wharf development. There’s also Gaol Ferry Steps, and the handsome apartment blocks.
But it’s the cheerful blue containers, fairylit after dark, that have really come to symbolise the spirit of the Wharf, elevating it way above its new-build waterfront neighbours. In what has been a patchy regeneration of the docklands, Wapping Wharf is the place to be.
In creating Cargo – it’s technically CARGO, but endless caps look a bit shouty in a feature – Umberslade MD Stuart Hatton had a flash of savvy intuition. To impress indie-conscious Bristol, all the units would be let to small, local businesses. Many of the tenants were start-ups, tentatively testing the water. Some had evolved from festival vans and pop-ups. Others were building on existing branches in the city.
Cargo 1 opened in October 2016, and was such a hit that Cargo 2 followed in May 2017, with a further extension in November.
While many of the shops and restaurants have remained the same, a fluid philosophy keeps things fresh. One of the first to open in Cargo 1 was Josh Eggleton, who closed Chicken Shed almost overnight when he realised that the high-grade chicken he was committed to using didn’t lend itself to deepfrying; instead, he opened the excellent plantfocused Root which has gone on to spawn branches in Wells and Bath.
Every year, the offering becomes more eclectic and quirky, and now it’s all set to change again, with Umberslade having permission to build the final phase: Wapping Wharf North. The plans include 245 sustainable new homes, shops, restaurants, takeaways and workspaces, a market hall selling groceries in a continental-style covered market named Cargo Hall, and landscaped public spaces occupying 30% of the site, providing more natural habitat for wildlife to improve biodiversity.
Although the containers are fun, colourful and appealing, they were never intended to last. The permanent bricks-and-mortar build of Wapping Wharf North, on the other hand, will secure the future of the independent businesses and create a go-to leisure destination on the waterfront.
Of course, the final stage has not been without its critics – what in Bristol ever is? – so let’s hear directly from Stuart and some of the traders to see what they think of it all.
CARGO: never knowingly under-fairylit
PHOTOS BY JON CRAIG
“The original vision for Wapping Wharf was to create a new neighbourhood where people who live and work would have places to eat, drink, shop and relax on their doorstep; to nurture a real community”, says Stuart.
“At the same time, the unique location between the harbour and Gaol Ferry Bridge which connects it to south Bristol, meant we had an opportunity to establish it as a visitor destination in its own right. From the outset, we wanted it to have real character, and feel like it was part of Bristol, not just an identikit development you could see all over the country. This is why we’ve always focused on nurturing independent businesses, which give it so much character.”
At what point did Cargo appear as part of the development, and what inspired it?
Once we’d finished the apartments in the first phase of Wapping Wharf, and built Gaol Ferry Steps to create a route through the site, it was clear we needed a ‘meanwhile’ use for the vacant space at the bottom of the Steps before the next phases of the development were rolled out. On a trip to New York we visited the Highline and got the idea for Cargo. They were using shipping containers in inventive ways and we thought these could provide the right dockside aesthetic and create ideal bases for independent businesses, particularly in the food and drink sectors for which Bristol is renowned. We also knew there were large numbers of people crossing Gaol Ferry Bridge
every day, and that this would help provide a steady stream of potential customers. Of course it was a risk, but that’s what you have to do to make things happen.
Have you been surprised by Cargo’s massive popularity?
In a word – yes! We do work hard to curate the mix of tenants, so they complement each other, and we fill what we think are gaps in the overall offering, but it’s the businesses themselves that have made it so popular.
Have the shipping containers been a victim of their own success – so popular that people don’t want to see them go?
As I said, I believe it’s what’s in the containers that make them so special, and we plan to take as many of these businesses into the new building as possible. The containers themselves are just steel boxes, but every tenant has fitted them out in their own unique way, we plan to keep that quirky, individual aesthetic in Wapping Wharf North.
How will you capture that same indie vibe in the permanent structure?
The last thing we want to do is to lose the Wapping Wharf vibe, and we’re confident we won’t. For a start, we’ll continue to focus on having independent businesses in the building, and we’ve been working hard with our existing tenants to make sure it’s going to provide what they need. They will have the
WHAT DO THE CARGO TRADERS THINK ABOUT THE PLANS?
“Umberslade has taken the essence of who we are and put it into a new building. There’s still that strong connection between the businesses, the lovely walkways to encourage people to wander, the greenery, the pedestrianisation and the views. The plans have a lot of the Cargo personality in them.”
Tess Lidstone, Box-E
“The containers made it really easy to start a new business, but it’s what’s inside them that’s important. With the revised plans, the look and feel of the shipping containers will be instilled into the new building.”
Josh Eggleton, Root and Salt & Malt
“Wapping Wharf is great at the moment but the new development will take it up several levels and give us the chance to create landmark Bristol restaurants.”
Imogen Waite, Cargo Cantina and Gambas
“The new proposals are exciting. I really like the tall building with the market hall underneath – it’s so nice that everyone will be in the same place. Nothing will be done to detract from the essence of Cargo.”
Rozzy Turner, Clifton Seafood
The hanging gardens of Wapping Wharf
SO WHAT HAS WAPPING WHARF EVER DONE FOR US?
“It offers a pedestrianised area by the water, full of great independent places to eat, drink, shop, and just hang out.”
Tess, Box-E
“Really championing independent businesses without a chain in sight.”
Imogen Waite, Cargo Cantina and Gambas
“Wapping Wharf feels new and very historic at the same time. You’re working in a modern independent quarter, but you’re doing it on Bristol’s floating harbour, surrounded by so much of the city’s trading and maritime history. On a business level, I think what people sometimes don’t realise is how much these Cargo units changed Bristol’s restaurant scene. They lowered the barrier to entry for independents and gave small operators a genuine chance to build something special. That’s had a much bigger impact on the city’s food culture than people might realise.”
Dan O’Regan, Lapin
opportunity to make their space their own, and recreate their indie vibe, but in a building that works much better for them.
One of the things I’m most excited about is the opportunity to make the most of the waterside location – just imagine sitting on one of the terraces having a drink or meal, watching the sun go down over the water.
What steps will be taken to ensure that everyone survives the building process?
We’re working very closely with our businesses to make sure that the relocation, which is likely to take a couple of years, is as smooth as possible and done at a time of year when trade is generally quiet. Since we own all the retail space, we share the fortunes of our tenants – their success is our success, so it’s in all our interests to make this work.
Anything else you’d like to tell us?
This is a very tough time for hospitality and retail, and while the businesses at Wapping Wharf are doing better than many, they still need your support. So do come on down and take advantage of what’s on offer here and see why it’s such a special place for Bristol. n
For more www.wappingwharfnorth.co.uk
“The last thing we want to do is lose the independent vibe, and we’re confident we won’t”
Clifton Village, 9 The Mall, Bristol, BS8 4DP
THE ARTS
SNAPSHOTS OF BRISTOL’S CULTURAL LIFE
TWords and pics by Deri Robins
THE EX FILES
he truth is out there. Lily Allen may have described her confessional 2025 album West End Girl as ‘autofiction’, but we all knew the context: her open marriage to Stranger Things actor David Harbour had soured, and she’s never been the kind of girl to wash her dirty linen in private.
If ever an album lent itself to a live theatrical show it was this one, although a few reviewers claimed to feel shortchanged. Lily didn’t appear at all in the first half, they pouted; it was just a cello-accompanied karaoke session. When she did appear, she didn’t engage with the audience. And where were all the backlist bangers?
But the clue is in the title: ‘Lily Allen performs West End Girl’. She promises to sing the tracks, the whole tracks and nothing but the tracks, and that’s what she does. It’s an inventive, half-gig, half-theatre show filled with moody, intimate soul-searching; belting out LDN and yelling “Hello Bristol!” would totally break the spell.
The Beacon audience seems quite happy to sing along to the on-screen lyrics while it awaits its diva, greeting her rapturously when she emerges between emerald curtains at the start of the second half. As title track West End Girl yields to Ruminating these gradually pull back to reveal a stylised, cinematic set, all filmy drapes and pink shag (appropriately). Lily is the only figure on stage, and like the sets, her outfits evolve as the narrative unfolds. A ’60s-chic twinset is cast off; a fur-edged negligee donned. A black-leather frock is revenge-dressing at its most intentional. The Lily she shows us is elegant and alluring, but also vulnerable; when Relapse finds her toying with a strip of pills you think fleetingly of Amy, and Judy, and Edith, and all those other brilliant, damaged, mistreated women. With misogyny being more under scrutiny than ever before her timing is impeccable, and we, her celebratory femme-centric congregation, radiate a protective indignation. Many of us
have followed this girl since she was 21; we know how easily things could spiral.
Lily’s always possessed an alchemical talent for turning break-up trauma into musical gold, sugaring witty, caustic lyrics (ever since Smile, her sense of humour seems to have been a safety net) with incongruously sweet and hooky pop tunes. As she takes us from wronged-wife paranoia to outrage and the final Fruityloop catharsis – “It’s not me, it’s you” – she delivers the songs beautifully; she may not have the most powerful voice in the world, but it’s a clear and pretty one, and the Beacon acoustics do the rest. Toxic love has never felt so much fun as we all sing along gustily to one of the most candid marital post-mortems ever recorded. Shortchanged? It’s one of the best 55 minutes I’ve spent so far this year.
Lily Allen played West End Girl at Bristol Beacon on 17 March; www.bristolbeacon.org
WHAT’S ON
27 March24 April 2026
EXHIBITIONS
Until 19 April
COSMOS: THE ART OF OBSERVING SPACE
A major art and science exhibition celebrating our enduring fascination with space, bringing together contemporary and historic artists. At RWA, rwa.org.uk
Until 26 April
WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR
The NHM’s exhibition of nature photos at Bristol Museum, here for one more month. bristolmuseums.org.uk
Until 3 May
OLUKEMI LIJADU: FEEDBACK
The largest solo exhibition to date by the Nigerian-British artist, filmmaker and DJ; Spike Island, spikeisland.org.uk
PHILLIP LAI
A major solo exhibition of work by the KLite artist, bringing together a body of sculptural commissions that continue his exploration of the material world; Spike Island, spikeisland.org.uk
Until 24 May
THE LAST RESORT
To honour Martin Parr, MPF
gallery is holding an exhibition of Martin’s classic seaside shots of New Brighton, evoking the resilient spirit of ’80s northern England; martinparrfoundation.org
MOUNIRA AL SOLH: A LAND AS BIG AS HER SKIN
A major new solo exhibition from Mounira, including her acclaimed Venice Biennale pavilion installation
A Dance with her Myth which takes visitors on a journey from Middle Eastern mythology to contemporary times. Arnolfini, arnolfini.org.uk
1 April-28 June
OCEAN PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR
If Wildlife Photographer of the Year at Bristol Museum has left you wanting more, try this; it’s at the ss Great Britain, appropriately enough. ssgreatbritain.org
SHOWS
Until 27 March THE CITY FOR INCURABLE WOMEN
The outrageous (and true) tale of medical misogyny about patients demonstrating ‘hysteria’ onstage in 19th-century Paris; at The Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com
Until 28 March
MACBETH
TFT’s artistic director Heidi Vaughan brings her signature collaboration, humanity and emotional depth to the Scottish play. Full of darkness and madness though Macbeth is, Heidi’s direction seeks out the spark of resilience, leaving audiences provoked, moved, and unexpectedly uplifted. tobaccofactorytheatres.com
THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED)
The Reduced Shakespeare Company brings a revised and updated romp through all 37 of Will’s play, with a few sonnets thrown in too; BOV; bristololdvic.org.uk
Until 10 May
THE GREATEST SHOWMAN: THE MUSICAL
Another ‘first’ for the Hippodrome. In Bristol this is ‘the UK première’; for London it’s a ‘West-End tryout’, either way, it sold out instantly, so returns only. atgtickets.com
31 March-4 April
THE BOY AT THE BACK OF THE CLASS
At BOV; see p 34. bristololdvic.org.uk
7-8 April
STAMPIN’ IN THE GRAVEYARD
ROSE is an AI chatbot who gives advice for the end of the world, powered by a black box of memories from people whose worlds have already ended. Tonight, ROSE unboxes her training data of human memories (and fabricates some in true AI fashion), to learn about the woman who created her, in an immersive headphone experience fusing physical theatre and live music at Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com
11-18 April
THE PLOUGH AND THE STARS
Bristol School of Acting take on Seán O’Casey’s masterpiece exploring the 1916 Easter Rising in Ireland through a modern lens, where national pain and collective rage erupt in a hellish dream, where distant heroes are pitched against survivors trapped in the crossfire of history. At Bristol Old Vic; bristololdvic.org.uk
21-25 April
THE WOMAN IN BLACK
Steely nerves are required to watch Susan Hill’s famously chilling ghost story. Come along to Bristol Old Vic if you think you’re hard enough; bristololdvic.org.uk
The cast of The Greatest Showman have just seen the queue for return tickets
22-23 April
ALAS! POOR YORICK
Picture The Two Ronnies as the gravediggers in Hamlet, re-written by Beckett, and you’ll be close to Ridiculusmus’s existential clown piece: a beautiful, moving meditation on work, faith and existence, at TFT, tobaccofactorytheatres.com
COMEDY & CABARET
Ongoing CLOSER EACH DAY
The world’s longest-running improvised comedy soap continues to froth away at The 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: thegaffecomedyclub.com
27 March
HOLLY SPILLAR: TALL CHILD
Armed with nothing but a loop pedal and her ever-growing rage, Holly is looking for the catharsis only art made by low-income people, working two bad jobs on minimum wage can provide, at Alma Tavern; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk
29 March
PHIL ELLIS: BATH MAT
Taskmaster star Phil is going on his first full national stand-up tour. bringing all the LOLs, profound silliness, carefully crafted gags and constant surprises to The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
MICHELLE DE SWARTE: THE AFTERS
Michelle brings some brutally honest oversharing about life before social media, trying to scrape the barrel of youth, how to know when too much filler is too much, breaking down the cost difference of ‘party powder’ to powdered greens, whether tarot card readers replace actual therapy and when is a good time to pregame perimenopause. Basically she’s here to share all the fu•k ups, so you don’t have to. BOV; bristololdvic.org.uk
30 March
MARIO ADRION
Whether he’s unpacking European
stereotypes, revisiting his American Idol moment or diving into the chaos of modern dating, the former model – a German living in the US –brings his energetic, honest stand-up to Bristol Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
2 April
PEDRO LEANDRO: SOFT ANIMAL
If the whole world told Pedro: “You are the greatest comedian that has ever lived. In fact, you transcend that label. You are a raconteur. An artist. And we actually like that you’re gay”, would that be enough? He reckons it wouldn’t hurt. Alma Tavern; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk
SIMON EVANS IS STARING AT THE SUN
With growing evidence that we are living in a computer simulation –and a pretty glitchy one at that – and the approaching watershed of the AI Singularity looming like a weirdly pixelated cumulo-nimbus on the horizon, the veteran stand-up is squinting at an uncertain future, and revisiting the blue remembered hills of his youth, at Redgrave; redgravetheatre.com
5 April
THE LOST CABARET
Clowns, but not the scary kind; the Bristol collaboration is back at Wardrobe with big ideas, big experiments and hopefully big laughs. thewardrobetheatre.com
7 April
KATE BUTCH: CHOOSE YOUR OWN CABARET
Following her Wuthering Shites tour (bet she wished she’d kept that one for this year) the star of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, Celebrity Mastermind, The Power of Parker, and at least three episodes of Crimewatch is back. You, the audience, get to select each song, each joke, and maybe even what she wears, at Redgrave; redgravetheatre.com
9 April
GARY DELANEY:
GARY ON LAUGHING
It’ll be fun, says Gary. Don’t bring the kids, or people who like to get their knickers in a twist. Do wear a TENA pad or dark trouser; at Redgrave; redgravetheatre.com
RIOT ACT
‘Bristol’s Madcap Open Mic Cabaret Clubnight’ comes to The Mount Without with ‘A Night of the Living Legends’ – and that’s
top: Actress, comedian, model, whatever Michelle de Swarte comes to BOV middle: Cat in a hat: it’s James bottom: Cat without a hat: it’s Ms Burns
not hyperpbole because they’ve scored Dylan Moran as a headliner. headfirstbristol.co.uk
DAVID ELMS DESCRIBES A ROOM
After sold-out runs at Edinburgh and the Soho Theatre, the cult hit show is on its first UK tour. “Surely one of the most original and artistic comedy shows”, says Chortle, and after a quick YouTube of David’s past work, we’re sold; at Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com
SEÁN BURKE: YOUR MAN
Living with the French, having a pacemaker and achieving a level of internet fame that leaves fans screaming “Sorry, where do I know you from?” – all this and more will be covered in a show of tight gags and the occasional silly voice from the Irish stand-up, at Alma Tavern; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk
10 April
OZZY ALGAR: SPEED QUEEN
Enter the Speed Queen, the last launderette on the Isle of Wight, where ancient washerwoman Pet divines the fates of her customers through their dirty laundry, and a story unfolds of an island ill at ease. Part folklore, part black comedy, with original music and sharp character work, at Alma Tavern; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk
16 April
JUDI LOVE: ALL ABOUT THE LOVE
Let’s be real – adulting? It’s no joke! Judi has dedicated her life to service: as a friend, parent, in the workplace, on TV, or at home, all with a bit of humour, which has been a life saviour. She has learned one key thing: it’s all about the Love… Bristol Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
17 April
LAURA RAMOSO: THE CALM DOWN TOUR
The Canadian stand-up who has turned characters like German Mom, Italian Dad and Chiara into internet stars comes to Bristol Beacon. She’s funny. bristolbeacon.org
18 April
VIDURA BANDARA RAJAPAKSA: THE PARADISE GOTHIC TOUR
With trademark deadpan delivery and postcolonial insight, Vidura skewers corporate tech culture, spiritual burnout, and the strange
comedy of simply trying to stay human in a world run by numbers, at Bristol Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
19
April
SUZI RUFFELL: THE JUGGLE
It’s hard to be good all the time. A good mother, a good daughter, a good partner, a good friend, a good person. To be ambitious but not ruthless; a success but not a sell-out. A gentle parent but not a pushover. To be smashing life and make it look easy. Suzi is exhausted and she hasn’t even started. This is both a stand-up show and a support group, at BOV; see page 30. bristololdvic.org.uk
21 April
JOHN MULANEY: MISTER WHATEVER
The four-time Emmy and Critics Choice-winning comedian, writer and actor brings his sharp wit and singular storytelling to the Beacon stage; bristolbeacon.org
23 April
CHRIS RAMSEY: HERE MAN!
It’s the co-host of the wildly popular podcast Shagged. Married. Annoyed with his trademark big LOLs, relatable chaos, and the kind of stories that make you nudge the person next to you and say, “That’s us”. Bristol Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
24 April
NURSE JOHN: THE SHORTSTAFFED TOUR
A real-life nurse turned accidental internet sensation, John’s built a global following with his sharp, heartfelt takes on the highs, lows and utter chaos of working in healthcare and the service industry. Expect cathartic laughter at Bristol Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
MUSIC
For more events 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); Prospect Building (theprospectbuilding.com) and Gallimaufry (thegallimaufry.co.uk)
27 March
FAIRPORT CONVENTION
They practically invented British folkrock, they’ve won loads of awards,
and they’re on their way to Bristol Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
MISTY IN ROOTS
The reggae legends celebrate 50 years in the biz we call show with a gig in Lantern Hall and the reissue of their classic debut Live at the Counter Eurovision, one of the greatest live reggae albums ever recorded. At Bristol Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
RONI SIZE & LTJ BUKEM
Two titans come together. Bristol’s Roni cemented his legacy with the groundbreaking album New Forms, propelling drum ’n’ bass onto the global stage, while LTJ, the innovator behind Logical Progression, brings his jazz-fused, atmospheric sound that shaped the genre. At Prospect Building: theprospectbuilding.com
28 March
JAMES
Come Home, Sit Down and maybe even Get Laid when the Manc rockers come to O2; academymusicgroup.com
ANNIE MAC
Annie brings another of her Before
Midnight dance events to Prospect – because getting your eight hours at night is cool. theprospectbuilding.com
29 March
PIANO DAY
Returning to Beacon; tickling the ivories this year are Poppy Ackroyd, one of the UK’s most inventive pianist-composers, Icelandic composer Snorri Hallgrímsson, and Charlie Hooper-Williams, pairing new solo pieces with generative live visuals. bristolbeacon.org
1 April
HOLLY HUMBERSTONE
The lass with the Phoebe Bridgers sound, Harry Potteresque name and wardrobe nicked from Kate Bush brings her intimate, ‘dark, wonky’ alt-pop, raw, diary-entry songwriting and confessional, vulnerable lyrics to Electric; electricbristol.com
3 April
HAPPY MONDAYS
The band crashed out of Salford in the 1980s and rewired British music forever. Fusing funk, acid house and indie swagger, Shaun, Bez and co.
above: Blue, planning a Fly By to Beacon below: Heathcliff, it’s me, it’s Holly Humberstone
became the unruly heart of the Madchester scene; their groove-heavy sound is still as infectious as ever, so come and grab a piece of it at Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
J.I.D
The Grammy-nominated Atlanta rapper brings his lightning flow and critically acclaimed back catalogue to Prospect; theprospectbuilding.com
10 April
TOE
Tokyo’s instrumental quartet brings its intricate, emotionally charged soundscapes to Prospect; theprospectbuilding.com
10 & 22 April
BRISTOL BEACON 2026 ORCHESTRAL SEASON
Bristol Beacon continues its diverse array of performances by orchestras from the UK and beyond. Spanish Galicia Symphony Orchestra are in on 10 April, and London Symphony Orchestra & London Symphony Chorus on the 22nd; bristolbeacon.org
11 April
TORI AMOS: IN TIMES OF DRAGONS
No, Tori hasn’t gone all Khalessi on us, but she is performing her new live show featuring music from her forthcoming (and 18th) album along with highlights from her 35-year career, at Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
OUTER TOWN
Bristol’s multi-venue extravaganza is returning for the fifth year to support independent venues and artists in Old Market; outertownfest.com
15 April CAT BURNS
The London singer-songwriter brings her gospel and pop influenced guitar-led indie music back to O2; academymusicgroup.com
Can’t wait for Chris Nolan’s The Odyssey? How about his 2014 Interstellar at The Planetarium for now? Bristol Film Fest
18 April DAY FEVER
One of the country’s biggest daytime discos is back to get us partying again, at O2; academymusicgroup.com
19-20 April
BLUE
Simon, Duncan, Antony and Lee are on their 25th anniversary tour, performing the hits that defined an era – don’t pretend you’re too cool to know them – along with new material from upcoming album Reflections. Two nights at Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
20 April THE FUREYS
It’s another of those farewell tours that always seem to wash up at Beacon; saying goodbye to us this time are the Irish traditional music legends bristolbeacon.org
22-26 April
BRISTOL NEW MUSIC
Returning for its sixth edition for five nights and days of rolling concerts, performances, audiovisual works and installations in exhibition spaces, venues, concert halls and unusual locations; bristolnewmusic.org
OTHER
Ongoing
BRISTOL FILM FESTIVAL
The usual eclectic selection of classic and popular movies; look out this month for some atmospheric space ones at the Planetarium, bristolfilmfestival.com
Until 12 April
THE EVERYWORLD SEASON
A season celebrating the visionary work of father/daughter duo, Andrew and Eden Kötting, stretching from Undershed to the cinema. watershed.co.uk
16 April
NT LIVE: ALL MY SONS
A little touch of the South Bank as Redgrave screens the acclaimed production of the Arthur Miller play with Bryan Cranston and Marianne Jean-Baptiste; redgravetheatre.com
23-26 April
FORBIDDEN WORLDS
The festival celebrating classic fantasy, action, science-fiction and horror films returns to Megascreen; forbiddenworldsfilmfestival.co.uk n
CULTURE CLUB with Suzi Ruffell
Suzi brings her new confessional show The Juggle to Bristol Old Vic this April. It is, we’re told, both a stand-up show and a support group.
A film I could watch over and over again
Pitch Perfect. I think in my dream life I would be in the Barden Bellas.
A painting that means something to me
My wife got me a painted plate from Haus of Lucy with all of Brighton’s landmarks on it. It sits in the lounge and I love it.
Best TV show ever… This is hard… maybe This Is Us. I love how it jumps back and forward it time and how you grow to love different versions of the characters. Its a bit weepy but I do love a cry.
My favourite binge watch Anything with a troubled female detective, preferably played by Suranne Jones.
The book that changed my life
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo made me want to write more. I read it on holiday and got sunburnt because I couldn’t put it down.
The book I could happily re-read Little Women. It was my nan’s favourite, and she passed that love onto me. It is a bit weepy – is there a theme here? Is this a Q&A or a cry for help? You decide
My desert island disc Hearts Content by Brandi Carlisle. Last night, me, my wife and our little girl sang it at the top of our lungs while driving home.
A character you’d love to play Madame T in Les Mis, but to be honest anything in a West End musical, mainly for the musicalobsessed teenager I used to be. It would be nice for her.
My dance floor/karaoke banger 9 to 5 by Dolly Parton. It’s actually pretty easy and you get the fun of doing Dolly’s accent.
Podcast pick
How to Fail with Elizabeth Day. It’s fascinating and hopeful.
Best app
Block Blast. I play to disassociate (see not above about cry for help).
Guilty pleasure Kitchen Disco, but I don’t actually feel guilty about it.
The Juggle, Bristol Old Vic on 19 April ; www.bristololdvic.org.uk
EXPERIENCE BRISTOL
Bristol’s attractions share what makes them special — where art, heritage, innovation and natural beauty come together across the city.
BRISTOL PACKET BOAT TRIPS
WAPPING WHARF, GAS FERRY ROAD, BRISTOL, BS1 6UN
TEL: 01179268157
WWW.BRISTOLPACKET.CO.UK
This spring, discover the fascinating history and vibrant contemporary culture of Bristol’s Floating Harbour aboard Bristol’s original City Dock Tour. This classic 45-minute cruise journeys through the heart of the harbour, with expert commentary bringing the city’s rich maritime past to life. Sail past renowned landmarks including the ss Great Britain, Cabot Tower and Hotwells. Ideal for visitors and locals alike, this tour offers a fresh perspective on Bristol’s connection to the water. This trip runs every weekend, daily throughout school holidays, and daily from May to September. Tickets are available online from three months in advance.
WAKE THE TIGER
127 ALBERT ROAD, ST. PHILIPS, BRISTOL, BS2 0YA
EMAIL: INFO@WAKETHETIGER.COM
WWW.WAKETHETIGER.COM
Wake The Tiger is the UK’s largest immersive art experience, based in St Philip’s, Bristol. Perfect for families, friends, dates, school trips, and curious explorers of all ages. Discover over 40 interactive spaces across two extraordinary levels in this awardwinning attraction. Embark on a self-guided journey through breathtaking installations designed to spark creativity. With no time limits, revisit your favourite spaces, explore, slide, play, and interact. Uncover the story behind this intricate alternate world and leave feeling inspired.
Book early and save 20% on tickets, plus under 5s go free!
Based in St Philip’s, The Mothership is a vibrant hub where Bristol’s creative energy meets bouldering. It’s a brilliant way to quieten the mind; focusing on the next move makes it as much a workout for the brain as the body. Their £11 Bouldering Inductions are the perfect start, including a 30-minute coached tour and a free second visit. Specific sessions for adults and families are available to book online, but you’re also welcome to just drop in whenever you fancy. It’s the ideal way to find a new passion this Easter.
Adventure Bristol’s award-winning ropes course in Ashton Court is a firm favourite for all ages! Enjoy stunning views as you zip through the trees in the beautiful Ashton Court Estate. With three levels in the high ropes course, a dedicated party area, and access to a pizza oven for afterwards, it’s perfect for children, adults, families, schools, groups, and team away days. They also offer a range of other exciting group activities, as well as a popular holiday club for children.
A Bristol Life Awards finalist and ranked No. 1 on TripAdvisor for 2026. Book online today!
For a truly unique Easter outing, head to The Church in St Werburghs. This historic landmark offers a mix of ancient architecture and modern adventure. Their Roped Tasters are a fantastic one-off experience, letting you try bouldering, traditional roped climbing and auto-belays (where you can climb safely without a partner). With dedicated slots for kids, adults and families, it’s a proper community space where everyone is welcome. These popular sessions are booking up fast, so secure your spot online to experience one of Bristol’s most iconic settings for yourself. Ask about £3 kids sessions!
SS GREAT BRITAIN
GREAT WESTERN DOCKYARD, GAS FERRY RD, BRISTOL BS1 6TY. TEL: 0117 926 0680
WWW.SSGREATBRITAIN.ORG
Step aboard Brunel’s SS Great Britain, Bristol’s most iconic attraction and a pioneering feat of Victorian engineering. Beautifully restored, this historic steamship offers an immersive journey through time, from luxurious first-class cabins to the working life below deck. Set within its original dry dock, the ship is brought vividly to life with interactive exhibits and costumed characters. Visitors can explore the dockyard museum, discover Brunel’s genius, and experience the sights, sounds and even smells of life at sea. Perfect for families, history lovers and curious minds alike, the SS Great Britain promises a memorable day out in the heart of Bristol.
CLASS ACT
The Olivier-nominated The Boy at the Back of the Class is about to visit Bristol Old Vic. Take the kids. If you don’t have any, borrow some. (Ask first.)
Words by URSULA COLE
It’s a timely tale. After learning that new boy Ahmet has fled war-torn Syria, his classmates have ‘the Greatest Idea in the World’ – a magnificent plan to reunite him with his family.
The Olivier-nominated family show has been likened to ‘A children’s Play for Today’. We asked Nick Ahad, who adapted the book from Onjali Q Raú’s award-winning novel, to tell us more.
“It’s about a little boy who comes from Syria and joins a classroom in the UK, where a group of young people become his friends and help him find his family. No spoilers, but in that brilliant, beautiful, innocent way that children have they come up with what they think is the most obvious and simple solution.
“It’s thrilling, it’s exciting and I think it’s also surprisingly funny. I’ve managed to jimmy in as many jokes – including terrible dad jokes – as I possibly can. That said, what we’ve discovered from the previous tour is that it’s also really moving. Even I’m moved by this play, and I wrote it; from the rehearsals to every time I see it on stage, I’m in floods of tears every time.”
What made you want to adapt the novel?
The story is really important and so hugehearted. And it’s a story that tackles possibly the biggest question that faces us as a society, which is: “How do we want to treat people who need our help?” The book does that magnificently and it’s an honour to have been trusted to tell this story on stage.
What was the main challenge for you?
It was a really difficult thing to adapt, because the hero of the story doesn’t speak any English. How do you possibly put that on stage? And then there are the practical elements of a story where you have a football match, and travel on the Underground. Designer Lily Arnold and director Monique Touko came up with a very smart way to achieve this.
Did you find you had any common ground with Onjali?
Loads. Onjali is Bangladeshi and so am I. We’re forever being told that people with our background are low performers at school, so to have Onjali write a bestselling book that kids are reading and loving in schools is really inspiring. We’ve also shared many experiences as people of colour living in the UK today. A lot of that informed the book, and ultimately the story that we both wanted to tell on stage.
Is the story just as timely now than when the book was first published in 2018? It’s really sad that it feels more urgent now than ever. What we’ve seen over the two years since we first toured the show is a ramping-up of the hostility and the danger that people like Ahmet face. I’m really sad that we are where we are, but I’m also really hopeful that this story will in some ways help to change some minds.
What was the reaction to the first tour?
We were really proud of how well it was received. We knew we had something special, but it was only when we got it in front of audiences that we realised just how moving people were going to find it. There’s not been any major changes since then, but I’ve done some rewriting of the little bits that maybe didn’t work quite as well as we hoped; I tried to make the ending even more emotional, but realised that probably wasn’t possible.
Do you feel it’s important that children are taught to understand why people become refugees?
Absolutely. Refugees and asylum-seekers have become the bogie man, thanks to the stories that we’re told, but this story shifts that narrative. It asks young people: “Have you actually met anyone who’s been through this?” When young people do meet refugees or asylum-seekers they discover that they’re just human beings like them.
How are touring productions and regional theatre crucial to the arts?
This is a drum that I can’t bang loudly enough. The reason I’m a playwright, a theatre critic and an arts presenter is because I got to see the RSC at my local theatre, the Bradford Alhambra, when I was eight. Without shows coming to the venues where people live outside of London we won’t have a future generation of artists, because until you can see it you can’t believe that you can be it.
What is the importance of children’s theatre in particular?
Kids respond in the most extraordinary way.
They tell you if the play is any good. The fact that the children were behaving as if our production was a pantomime when we first saw it with an audience, and they were out of their seats and booing the baddies, makes you realise how honest they are as an audience. It’s an incredibly powerful thing to show children a story on stage, particularly one where they can see themselves up there.
What have you learned about theatremaking from your job as a reviewer?
People often query how I can be both a critic and a playwright, but I’ve seen well over 1,000 plays and shows so I think I’m incredibly wellplaced to know what works on stage. Kenneth Tynan once said that a critic is someone who knows the way but can’t drive the car. I like to think that I’ve taken a few driving lessons.
What do you hope children and their families take away from seeing the play? I hope they go away feeling hopeful. We live in a really scary, dangerous time where we’re told to concentrate on the things that separate us, but I hope they leave this in a really hopeful place where they’re thinking about the things that connect us, as well as thinking that we can change the world and have the power to make things better. n
The Boy at the Back of the Class plays Bristol Old Vic 31 March-4 April www.bristololdvic.org.uk
from left: Sasha Desouza-Wilcock as Alexa and Serkan Avlik as Ahmet; below: Nick Ahad
with peace of mind
Spring Wellness Care Package
A little extra care, when it matters most
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For the first six weeks, new permanent residents will receive:
♥ Complimentary Hairdressing
♥ Complimentary Chiropody Care
A thoughtful addition to our person-centred approach, helping residents feel well-caredfor, comfortable, and refreshed throughout the spring months. ♥ Warm, Friendly Environment ♥ Engaging Activity Programme ♥ Purpose-Built, Modern Facilities ♥ Nutritious and Well-balanced Meals
BARK LIFE
Imagine humans are gone. Now, dogs rule
Words and pics by Colin Moody
BRISTOL HEROES
recently sent an email to Deri, the editor of this wonderful magazine.
“You know what”, I said. “With big babies taking us to war I’d like to do a Heroes about dogs. Because humans have behaved so badly recently, maybe we don’t deserve to be in the next Heroes…”
3 2 4
I1
Yeah, it was on a lazy Sunday afternoon, and I’d just finished reading the papers about the war in Iran and I just thought, what if we only lived in a world of dogs?
Bear with me. I’m no super dog fan, if anything I’m a cat person, but I wanted to imagine dogs running things instead. Maybe AI took us out and left the world to our canine buddies. So let’s go there. Maybe we can work on the script to pitch to Hollywood later, documentary-style.
So here’s our first duo, in their self-propelling cycle transport as they move around Bedminster on paw patrol. I’m thinking dog cops. The one on the right, that’s the long-serving one; the rookie is on the left. Bit nervous. Not sure it’s really adapted to a world without humans. Doesn’t want to say it, but kind of misses them.
2This, this, the indignity that was thrust on their kind, generational humiliation. It has to end, the rule of humanity, they had been so cruel to each other, the planet, and to their best friend… dogkind.
Posters 8ft high of these atrocities fly from dog central to remind caninekind of what they endured
3
This dog can run faster, see further, smell 50 times better than you, it will stay by your side, loyally, and do whatever you ask. But please don’t make him wear a…. ahh, too late.
Dog training college teaches young pups this is how it was. This was the terror of living with this obsolete species. All was amusement.
Diabolical.
4
Now freed from the cages, now in charge, dog world is a place of sniffing, running, scrabbling and love.
There are no longer wars. The only reality TV is when the pack looks into a puddle and sees its own reflection. All dogs are happy and free.
It’s a utopia and it’s beautiful.
Soon as they can figure out how to open dog food tins it’s gonna be an amazing place for a long long time.
5Just in case any humans survived, dog patrols head out on the last dregs in the tank on one last search, making sure the streets are safe.
“Soon as they can figure out how to open dog food tins it’s gonna be an amazing place for a long long time.”
BRISTOL HEROES
8 5
6They remember how it was.
Dance for the ball, jump up for the ball, go get the ball from the harbour and bring it back.
Over and over and over.
Well, it’s done now. We dance to our own rules. We decide when we want to chase the ball, and jump, and all that, which is often, very often – god, we love that ball – but not you!
We only cared for the ball.
7
And so much of the time you seemed to spend so many hours worrying about, and moving about, little pieces of paper.
Oh, foolish humans. There was always so much more going on, but you just never could see the real meaning of life.
Never mind, that’s all gone now, and every day is walkies, and bum-sniffing, and all that good stuff. Oh, foolish humans
8This portrait hangs in the halls of the Canine Ministry of Justice as a reminder of what dogkind had to endure over the years.
And as global temperatures balance out due to the end of fossil-fuel burning, and dogs across the world unite in peace, the hope is that human trait of big-dog energy (not a term all dogs sit pretty with) is gone for good, one person dropping everyone in the dog house (again they are not happy about that term either) and the world turns smoother now on four legs.
“You seemed to spend so many hours moving about little pieces of paper. Oh, foolish humans”
How AI Personalisation is Changing Advertising A
I is both the biggest challenge and the biggest opportunity for many industries in 2026. And it’s no different for advertising. Over the past couple of years, AI has ripped up the rule book on advertising, completely changing how we approach campaigns. And the ground continues to move beneath our feet. Competition is intensifying across an increasingly fragmented ad landscape, with new players constantly entering the market (TikTok and ChatGPT in recent years). As a result, costs are increasing, and audiences are becoming fatigued by repetition. Where increasing your spend used to yield better results, that is no longer the case.
AI AD BOOM
But it’s not all doom and gloom. The advertising industry is booming, growing around 11% in 2025. Performance is still there to be found, driven by the possibilities of AI-powered
personalisation and a move away from the one-size-fits-all campaigns. Instead of serving the same ad to thousands, platforms now use realtime signals like browsing behaviour, conversion data, and engagement history to dynamically match messages to individuals. The result - in theory - is advertising that is tailored and helpful rather than intrusive, with budgets naturally flowing toward the people most likely to convert.
A HUMAN TOUCH
This isn’t about humans giving the advertising reins over to AI. Not yet, anyway. It’s about changing how
businesses think about their role in an ad campaign.
More and more, success depends on feeding platforms the right raw materials: creative variants to test, clean data, and accurate conversion signals. This is the lifeblood of ad campaigns in 2026, and when you get the foundations right, AI can take you to new heights.
If you’re still holding firm on AI, now’s the time to let go. The direction is set; personalisation and efficiency are the factors that influence success, and you can’t possibly win against the machines.
If you’re not already making a move, it’s a conversation you need to have sooner rather than later. If you want to have it with us, just reach out below.
FREE AI ADVERTISING AUDIT
We’ll review your current advertising campaigns and provide a short report highlighting opportunities to improve performance through AI-driven personalisation.
Scan the QR code to request your free audit.
BRANDS THAT TRUST US
GAMBAS
The small plates come with big flavours at this authentic Spanish seafood restaurant down at the harbour
Words by Deri Robins Room and terrace photos by Louis Smith
It’s not my first Gambas rodeo. I’ve probably visited this restaurant more often than any other in the city, and constantly recommend it to anybody who asks me about Bristol’s dining hotspots. I’ve had no complaints yet, and would be astonished if I did.
I come here so frequently that when we’re brought a plate of tortillitas de camerones I know the recipe’s been tweaked. “They taste even better than usual”, I exclaim, amazed. “We’ve changed the prawns”, admits our server. “Bigger ones?” “They are”, she agrees. OK, maybe I eat here a bit too often.
Here’s the background. Gambas is part of Bristol’s Season+Taste group, which began its culinary journey at Bravas on Cotham Hill, added Cantina and Gambas in Cargo and more recently, Condesa on Whiteladies Road. A couple of other ventures have been opened and closed along the way too, but then the key to playing the hospitality game is always knowing when to raise or fold.
If you’ve never been – or even if you have, it makes no difference to the location – Gambas occupies an enviable spot in Cargo 2, a first-floor corner site with a wraparound outdoor terrace which projects far enough beyond the bulk of M Shed to soak up the harbour views; it’s heated, making it cosy all year round. This is the Bristol Riviera writ large, an authentic seafood tapas bar right on the waterfront, with a dining room that looks the part; there may be no oversized jamons swinging overhead, but the high stools arranged along a curved marble counter beautifully evoke Valencia’s Mercado Central.
in a smoky ajo blanco sauce. By this stage I’ve also made a start on the first of two wonderful cocktails I try tonight. I can’t quite decide which I prefer, the blood-orange Tequila Dorado, its sweetness tempered by a dash of grapefruit, or the aperitivo of the month, the Dove, which infuses the tequila with rhubarb. I decide it may be the Dove. I order up another one just to be sure.
Next up is a big sharing dish of arroz al horno, a classic Valencian recipe that’s sometimes overshadowed by its close cousin, paella. The rice is squidink black, making the fresh, silky chunks of cod look all the more brilliantly white; it’s toasty and scrape-the-pan moreish. We duly scrape.
We chat to our server about the ethics of eating octopus, which we now know, unfortunately, are as friendly as a labrador and probably brighter. If your conscience is bothering you, be soothed by the knowledge that these beasts have multiplied so much in the oceans that they’re eating everything else in sight. and must be culled. Think of them as the deer of the cephalopod world. Served here on mash, they’re meltingly tender and brinily delicious. Oh well, it’s not like we’ve never eaten Bambi, after all.
DINING DETAILS
Gambas, Unit 12, Cargo 2, 0117 934 9256 www.gambasbristol.co.uk
Gambas also owns a space next door, the PDR, or the Private Dining Room as it likes to be known on formal occasions, which can be hired for events. All sorts of tasty thing happen here, from bespoke Spanish feasts curated by head chef Gustavo Benet (also from Valencia) to wine evenings with guest vintners in the house.
Service Charming and knowledgeable Atmosphere Downtown Valencia vibes
But let’s get back to the tortillitas, those delectably crispy, prawny fritters which originated in Andalucia. I’d say that they always transport me back to the caleta bar in Cadiz, except for the fact that the ones at Gambas are better. Because that’s the key takeaway about the cooking here: yes, it’s authentic, it will bring all the holiday vibes, but it’s considerably more varied and refined than anything you’ll find in a standard Spanish tapas joint, with the bonus that nobody here will spray you with a water gun or wave a banner suggesting you Go Home.
Gustavo constantly changes things up, mixing seasonal specials into the classic tortillas, patatas bravas and gildas menu. There are losses along the way – they’ve removed our favourite aubergine in molasses, but who knows? Maybe if we whine loudly enough they’ll reintroduce them.
Dishes are sent out of the kitchen when they’re good and ready, and our tortillitas are rapidly succeeded by purple sprouted broccoli, al dente
Luckily even Pixar would struggle to anthropomorphise a prawn, which is great news for us because Gambas’ ones are fat, sweet and juicy, cooked pil-pil style in piping-hot garkicky oil. Do not miss this dish, and make sure you’re dining with someone who understands the acceptability of dipping bread into a communal serving bowl.
Slices of the air-dried tuna called mojama are firm and almost meaty, with the kind of intense savouriness the word umami might have been invented for. A cuttlefish stew could have come out of the very best kind of home kitchen, while a radiccio salad cavorting crunchily with apple and almond is topped with soft goats’ cheese. We use the slightly bitter leaves as a scoop, like taco shells. Leave room for pudding, and choose the Goxua. The description ‘Basque-inspired almond and caramel sponge cake’ does not even begin to do it justice. It is creamy. It is slightly salty. It is beyond indulgent. It takes a simple tarta de Santiago and drowns in PX sabayon, lemon cream and butterscotch sauce, before topping with torched Valencia almonds. You will dream about this dish for months to come. Regular consumption of it will turn your Zoe spikes into a relief map of the Andes, and require you to replace your entire wardrobe with capacious kaftans, but it will be worth it. Gambas is versatile. You can pop in for just a couple of tapas and a glass of sherry, if you like, and leave with change from 25 quid, but if you stop there you have a lot more restraint than me. Despite the fact that we consumed so much food we had to be squeezed back out of the door I still found room to wish we’d also ordered the calcots. But then that’s the thing about Gambas; there’s always going to be FOMO over some missed dish or other. That’s just how the tortillita crumbles.
FOOD & DRINK
TASTY TIDBITS FROM THE BRISTOL FOOD SCENE
One long-empty site is gathering dust, a big-name hospitality group is plotting a pop-up, a terrace that seemed doomed gets a reprieve, a Michelin-starred chef eyes up Clifton, and a couple of independent food businesses prepare to bring toasties and Filipino comfort food to the container kingdom of Wapping Wharf…
BRAVO, BRAVAS
Much rejoicing among the Cotham Hill set after the council voted to allow the outdoor terrace at BRAVAS to remain in place. The seating area, created during the pandemic when outdoor dining became a lifeline for hospitality, had been under threat after planning officers recommended refusing permission. Concerns had been raised about emergency vehicle
THE SPICE IS RIGHT
access, but once Avon Fire and Rescue withdrew its objections and public support flooded in, the committee gave the terrace the thumbs-up.
Councillor Ani Townsend described the drawn-out debate as baffling given the clear support from residents. “Frankly, it’s wild that it has taken this long to get to this point”, she told the meeting. Well, yes. www.bravas.co.uk
Anyone missing their fix of Indian fine-dining since The Mint Room closed will be happy to know that chef Aktar Islam, the man behind Birmingham’s two-Michelin-starred Opheem, is preparing to open new restaurant Kush on the same site on Clifton Road.
Opheem is known for reimagining Indian cuisine through a modern lens, blending traditional flavours with contemporary techniques and a strong focus on British ingredients. The new Bristol restaurant is expected to follow a similar philosophy, exploring how South Asian food and culture have evolved in Britain over generations.
In the run-up to the opening, the team has also hinted at a series of preview supper clubs that will give diners a first taste of the concept (Aktar, our email is on page 4...)
Thought the face looked familiar? Over the years Aktar has appeared on numerous TV programmes including The F Word, Saturday Morning Kitchen and The One Show www.kushbristol.co.uk
THE PLOT THICKENS
An empty site that’s been gathering dust for years could soon spring back to life, with developers looking at plans for a temporary pop-up restaurant on the plot between Clifton Down Road, Boyce’s Avenue and King’s Road.
Perhaps unsurprisingly the chaps behind it are Josh Eggleton and his Pony Group, who never seem happy unless they have a tent to cook in.
If the Clifton pop-up goes ahead, it could also offer other occasional uses for the space, including food markets or community events.
In other Pony news, siblings Josh and Holly will celebrate the group’s 20th anniversary this year with an archive takeover of their à la carte menu, a perry made in collaboration with neighbours Wilding Cider, and their first cookbook, which combines a collection of The Pony’s signature modern British classics over the years, a celebration of the produce and producers of Somerset and stories and anecdotes from the past. More anon... www.theponychewvalley.co.uk
Eggleton sibs Holly and Josh
NEW TO THE WHARF
Wapping Wharf has recently welcomed two new food businesses to its indie community.
Toastie Queens takes over the former Sushi and the Seven Lucky Gods shop unit. Run by Shaz and Deb, the venture is an evolution of their Totterdown café, which started life as Rock Choc Café in late 2024 before leaning fully into the world of toasted sandwiches.
The pair say the idea for opening a food business was hatched over a couple of gins – a decision many of us can probably relate to – and the concept has grown steadily ever since. The menu revolves around inventive toasties alongside milkshakes, coffee, ice cream and sweet treats.
Next door, family-run Asian fusion Rice & Shine brings Filipino flavours to the development. The team began as a street-food stall before making the leap to a permanent kitchen. Their dishes lean towards comforting, slow-cooked favourites such as bulalo broth, beef stews and spicy pork belly. Yum. @toastiequeens; @riceandshinebristol
Rice & Shine
AMUSES BOUCHES
So much news to rip through, so little space, apologies for the brevity…
Tapas restaurant GAMBAS has begun hosting regular monthly wine-focused evenings featuring specially selected, spotlighted wines paired with snacks. Look out too for the Gambas Wine Series dinners featuring collaborations with wineries, such as the recent event with Gregory Perez of Mengoba in Bierzo, paired with five-course menus inspired by regional Spanish cuisine. www.gambas bristol.co.uk
Caper & Cure’s boozy li’l sis CARMEN STREET WINE has over 150 wines to try, with a focus on low intervention European wines, celebrating both classic and emerging producers. Fancy subscribing to a regular box? You’ll get three top-pick bottles each month with tasting notes and the story behind them; there’s 10% off the bill for new subscribers. www.carmenstreetwine.co.uk
PSYCHOPOMP MICRODISTILLERY has reopened its cosy on-site cocktail bar after a six-year hiatus. Expect classic drinks made using the distillery’s own spirits, plus tasting events and cocktail workshops. www.microdistillery.co.uk
BRISTOL BEER FACTORY celebrated International Women’s Day with limitededition beer Cowgirl Supernova; part of the proceeds will support local charities. The brewery is also continuing
BOXHALL FINALLY SCRAPPED
Remember all the talk back in the early 2020s about how London group Boxpark was going to sweep in and transform the old O and M sheds on Welsh Back into an all-day food hall? Yeah, well that’s not happening now.
The scheme has run into endless obstacles, from construction delays to the collapse of contractors working on the project. There was also controversy around a barge called Ebenhaezer, which the council bought for £1.4 million as part of the development, which was later deemed unsafe and ultimately scrapped. With the project now cancelled, the future of the historic sheds is once again up for debate. Suggestions from locals have ranged from arts venues and museums to music spaces, markets or community hubs – or, of course, the dreaded ‘more student flats’.
CRAVING SEAFOOD?
Devon restaurant Crave will soon be bringing its relaxed seafood-focused concept to Whiteladies Road, specifically at the site formerly occupied by Haus Bar.
work on its new taproom at the Old Brewery development near Ashton Gate, which should open once final preparations are complete. www.bristolbeer factory.co.uk
Coming this spring, new Stokes Croft venture THE BOOKCELLAR plans to pair books with carefully chosen wines and coffee. The concept is simple: browse, read, sip and chat. www.bookcellar.uk
Seafood restaurant NOAH’S finished second in the 2026 UK Fish & Chip Restaurant of the Year category, while LITTLE HOLLOWS PASTA has been shortlisted for Best Restaurant in the South of England at the UK Italian Awards. www. noahsbristol. co.uk
Finally, Little Hollows’ neighbour WILSON’S has been named the best restaurant in the UK by SquareMeal, who praised for its “sustainability credentials and worldclass cooking”. www wilsonsbristol.co.uk
When Sameer Shetty launched the first Crave in Exeter in 2024 it quickly built a following for its informal atmosphere and flavour-driven dishes. New opening Crave @ 52 will place greater emphasis on sharing plates and seafood, accompanied by a cocktail bar.
And in another chefs-on-TV story, Crave’s Tom Lodge is set to appear in the new ITV2 cooking series The Heat, where chefs travel to Barcelona to work under acclaimed chef Jean-Christophe Novelli.
Crave @ 52 is expected to open sometime this spring. www.craverestaurant.co.uk
CAFÉ SOCIETY STAN CULLIMORE
With
so many Bristol cafés to choose from, does this one make the Cut for Stan?
For this issue’s lovely little coffee shop of choice, the CS crew once again headed down to the harbourside. Sippin’ on the dock of a bay, if you like.
It’s a beautiful place to be, a superb spot to stroll and an endless source of satisfaction.
To be honest, I find it hard to drag myself away from such loveliness right here on our doorstep. So I don’t.
Either way, on this particular day, at that particular time, we were heading down to a place we’d wandered past many times, but somehow never frequented. Not really sure why not, but somehow this exceedingly lovely little café had never pinged on our coffee-shop radar.
In case the pics aren’t a dead giveaway, though it’s pretty hard
“Where would we be without a bit of quirk in our quill when it comes to coffee-loving?”
to imagine how there could be any confusion, I’m talking about New Cut Coffee. It was first opened in 2021 by a pair of coffee fiends, Jack Hudspith and Kate Evans, who had both worked at the lauded Small Street Espresso, and spent six months creating their own house blend. It bills itself as ‘Bristol’s best damn coffee shop’, and who can resist a nod to Twin Peaks?
It’s hard to miss. Just look out for the colourful sign above a modest doorway in an anonymous, industrial looking unit, at the end of Wapping Wharf, just opposite where The Matthew moors up when it’s not taking folk on creamtea trips up the harbour.
The moment we walked inside we felt wrapped in a warm and welcoming embrace. And that included the dogs. We came, we saw and were most contented. Made me feel rather sorry it had taken so long for us to visit.
It has a cosy yet spacious feel, the staff are lovely and the customers a pleasing mix of the usual cosy-café clientele. A sprinkling of keyboard tappers, some parents out with kids, a few grandparents with grandkids and some dogwalkers accompanied by their furry companions, because naturally the whole place is dog- friendly. Friendly to all, in fact.
Talking of which, the coffee was so tasty we bought ourselves a bag of their beans, roasted by Colonna Coffee, to take home with us. It’s a new tradition of the CS crew. Rather than go in search of a bottle of wine when we find somewhere lovely, we buy coffee beans instead. A bag costs about the same as a good bottle of plonk, and you as you grind your way through it you can relive the magical moments over and over again, all in the comfort of your own home. Most marvellous.
Talking of which (again), our in-house coffee connoisseur, a lady who likes her flat-whites skinny, discovered the café only has whole milk to hand, which seems to be a thing with some coffee shops these days. Not sure if it’s stock control, a distrust of milk-skimming or just a choice.
Either way, our fussy maestro got them to do her favourite trick at times like these. Mix the milk half-and-half with water before heating it up and adding it to the shot. Ah, where would we be without a bit of quirk in our quill, when it comes to coffee loving? n
www.newcutcoffee.com
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 Granddad
CHARLIE TAYLOR KASK WINE
Puglia: Italy’s sun-soaked reinvention
When people think of Italian wine, their minds usually travel north. Piemonte for Nebbiolo and Barolo. Veneto for Prosecco, Soave and Amarone. Maybe Tuscany for Sangiovese and Montepulciano.
But let your eyes drift down the map to the heel of Italy’s boot and you’ll find one of the country’s most fascinating wine regions quietly reinventing itself: Puglia.
For decades, Puglia (or Apulia) was the workhorse of Italian wine. The region’s sunny, fertile land, easily accessible from the sea, was traded and fought over by civilisation after civilisation. Greeks, Romans, Goths, Saracens, Byzantines and Normans all passed through. Later came the Aragonese, Spanish, Austrians, Bourbons and French.
Even after Italian unification in 1860, the pattern continued. Investors from the north moved south to acquire land and extract its natural riches, wine included. By the 20th century, vast flat vineyards and dependable sunshine had attracted industrial winemakers. The region produced enormous quantities of dark, high-alcohol wine that were shipped north and across Europe
to strengthen lighter blends. Volume mattered far more than individuality. But over the past 30 years something changed. Old vineyards, limestone soils and a new generation of winemakers have shifted the focus from bulk production towards wines with a real sense of place.
Climate plays a huge role in this.
Summers are long and hot, winters mild, and rainfall scarce. The intense sunshine produces grapes packed with sugar, which in turn leads to generous alcohol levels. The balance comes from Puglia’s limestone soils, which help preserve freshness and structure so the wines never feel overly heavy.
Petrera, the second generation of the family’s winemakers. The word loosely translates to ‘lady killer’. According to family legend, Filippo lived to the grand age of 98, starting each day with half a litre of Primitivo and half a litre of fresh milk, living, as the family say, between Bacchus and Venus.
“At the heel of Italy’s boot you’ll find one of the most fascinating wine regions, reinventingquietlyitself”
Today the winery blends tradition with modern thinking. It runs entirely on solar energy, yet still holds onto a few charming old habits: Italian folk music is played in the cellar, believed to stimulate microbial activity and supposedly help the wine taste even better.
The winemaker Sylvia trains her vines using the ancient Apulian alberello system. Instead of being tied to wires, each vine grows as a freestanding bush close to the ground. A thick canopy of leaves shields the grapes from the fiercest sunlight, and each day she trims the foliage to allow just enough light through for even ripening.
If red is your thing, also seek out Nero di Troia and Susumaniello, but don’t ignore the growing number of whites including L’Archetipo’s Fiano, perfect alongside the seafood-rich cuisine found along Puglia’s coastline.
Then there’s rosato. The region produces around 40% of Italy’s rosé, and the style is quite different from the pale blushes of Provence. Deeper in colour and fuller in flavour, with real structure, just as comfortable alongside orecchiette with cime di rapa or fresh burrata as they are on a sunny beach.
Primitivo is perhaps the best example of the region’s revival. Currently pouring at KASK is a brilliant example from the famed winery Fatalone. Rich, velvety and full-bodied, it shows classic Primitivo notes of plum, cherry and sweet tobacco. ‘Il Fatalone’ was the nickname of Filippo
Arguably Puglia’s second great red grape is Negroamaro. My current favourite, Alese by Tempo al Vino, is rich and slightly sweet with notes of blackberry, plum, black cherry and a touch of chocolate and coffee.
Producing wine in such a hot climate isn’t straightforward, and the lengths growers go to protect their grapes can be remarkable.
My top tip? Go. The wine alone is worth the trip, but there’s more to fall in love with: whitewashed hill towns, long sandy beaches and some of the best food I’ve eaten anywhere in Italy. Failing that, pop into KASK instead. We’ll happily pour you a glass.
Visit KASK Wine at 51 North Street and KASK² at 243 Cheltenham Road 07522 198081; www.kaskwine.co.uk
WHITER SHADE of PALE
BLOOMINGVILLE
FLOWERPOT, £30
The sculpted face is ever so slightly reminiscent of a Jonathan Adler, no? From Fig 1, Unit 9, Gaol Ferry Steps www.fig1.co.uk
FAUX STANDING SHELL, £45
If Pantone decides its 2027 colour of the year is bronze, this china shell is available in that too From Cox & Cox www.coxandcox.co.uk
Pantone’s colour for 2026 is Cloud Dancer. It’s a kind of vanilla white, which depending on your POV evokes quiet luxury and mindful simplicity, or really makes you fancy a Mr Whippy
IMOLA ARMCHAIR, £4,949
The classic design is by Henrik Pedersen, the material is vanilla-coloured leather, and obviously it swivels. Despite the hefty price tag, a Blofeld monocle and strokeable Persian cat is not included From Bo Concept 76-78 Whiteladies Road www.boconcept.com
CERAMIC BOWL, £10
Perfect for soup, cereal or snacks, to mix with other items from the range, or indeed anything else you have in the house From Mon Pote 217a North Street www.monpote.co.uk
CERAMIC VASE, £43
Thrown on the wheel by Bristol’s Village Pottery, which reuses recycled clay from the making process From Prior Shop 136 Church Road, Redfield www.priorshop.uk
COSTA NOVA PORTUGAL
FAUX FUR SOFT CHAIR, £295
Made from soft teddy faux-fur, it’s a cosy cross between a beanbag and an armchair. Ideal for movie marathons or quiet hours with a book
From Cox & Cox; www.coxandcox.co.uk
BLOOMINGVILLE STONEWARE VASE, £52.50
Style simply with a few delicate stems, fresh or dried; or just leave it as it is to do its own thing
From Fox + Feather 41 Gloucester Road www.foxandfeather.co.uk
FLOS BELLHOP BATTERY TABLE LAMP, £POA
Made in Italy, from an original 2018 design by Edward Barber & Jay Osgerby, this streamlined, portable lamp has a dimmable function and is fully rechargeable
From Oskar Furniture 47 Whiteladies Road www.oskarfurniture.co.uk
KINTO SLOW COFFEE
2-CUP BREWER, £22
Place above a coffee jug, spoon the ground coffee into a paper filter and slowly pour in hot water for the perfect cup of joe; no expensive, space-taking machine required
From U Studio, 115 Gloucester Road www.ustudio.shop
STRUCTURE RUG, £549
Minimal and handtufted by Indian craftsmen, in sustainable New Zealand wool From Bo Concept 76-78 Whiteladies Road www.boconcept.com
STROMSHAGA WALL BOX, £23
The classic design and gently undulating edges lend it a genuine oldfashioned feel; everyone will assume it’s vintage From Mon Pote 217a North Street www.monpote.co.uk
SPRING REFRESH
Refresh your space this season with PARK FURNISHERS, Bristol’s trusted destination for stylish, comfortable living for over 55 years.
For over 55 years, Park Furnishers has been helping the people of Bristol create stylish, welcoming homes. With expertly curated collections, decades of experience and a reputation for quality, we have become a trusted destination for homeowners looking to transform their interiors. Bristol homes choose Park Furnishers because we make it easy to design spaces that feel both comfortable and personal. This spring, it’s all about bringing brightness, warmth, and a sense of renewal into every corner of your home.
COMFORTABLE LUXURY TO SETTLE INTO
The living room is the heart of any home, and it’s the perfect place to start your seasonal refresh. The At The Helm Savannah leather sofa blends timeless elegance with luxurious comfort. Crafted in soft, supple leather that matures beautifully over time, it offers a welcoming spot to relax, unwind, or catch up with loved ones. Its sleek, contemporary lines suit a variety of interiors, making it a versatile choice that feels effortlessly stylish while inviting you to sink in and enjoy the comfort it provides.
“THE LIVING ROOM IS THE HEART OF ANY HOME”
DINING WITH WARMTH AND STYLE
From the lounge, the eye naturally moves to the dining space, where longer spring evenings invite family gatherings and leisurely meals. The Casa Devon round dining table brings a fresh, modern touch to any dining area. Its round design encourages conversation, while the durable, beautifully finished surface is perfect for everything from casual breakfasts to celebratory dinners. With its warm, natural tones, the table blends seamlessly into both contemporary and classic interiors, helping to create a space that is light, welcoming, and ready for spring entertaining.
ADDING COLOUR AND PERSONALITY
Spring is also a time to embrace energy, colour, and playful design. The Orla Kiely Ivy fabric corner sofa is a perfect example of how a statement piece can transform a room. Its generous corner shape makes it ideal for relaxing with the family or hosting friends, while the distinctive mid-century inspired pattern brings personality and charm. Layered with neutral accents or paired with complementary cushions, it introduces a joyful, spring-ready vibe that balances comfort with style, proving that your home can feel both vibrant and serene.
Visit us at Eastgate Retail Park, BS5 6XX, or explore our collections online to see how easy it is to give your home a fresh seasonal look and join generations of homeowners who have trusted us to bring comfort, style, and quality into their homes for more than five decades. It’s clear why Bristol homes have continued to choose Park Furnishers.
ESCAPE ROOMS
It’s a mad, mad world out there, and the sanctuary of our homes has never been more important. Of course, whether this takes the form of bold, crazy maximalism, a cosiness of chintz or something with the calm, pared-back simplicity of a Greek fisherman’s cottage is entirely up to you
Words by Deri Robins
Taking the notion of an escape room to the max is Cole & Sons Fornasetti range (Bracey Interiors). Go on, we dare you
INTERIORS
For some folk, the perfect escape from the madding crowd is a home filled with calming neutrals and minimal clutter. For others it’s rooms bursting with warmth, colour and creativity. Whatever your style, it should be your own personal refuge – somewhere that sparks happiness and spells relaxation.
1THE MAX FACTOR
When it comes to escapism, nothing succeeds like excess. We’re talking maximalism here: crazy, bold, unafraid, English Eccentric, with its clash of colours and patterns. Think Emerald Fennel’s Saltburn, with its rulebreaking mix of the classical and the frankly unhinged (maybe not so much her Wuthering Heights,
though. Nobody – no, not even Jacob Elordi, if he’s being honest – wants walls resembling Margot Robbie’s skin.)
“At Divine Savages we’ve always believed that interiors should be transportive”, says Jamie Watkins. “Our homes are our all-important safe haven, our oasis of calm. But calm doesn’t have to mean neutral or minimal. For us, escape is about storytelling and creating spaces that feel evocative and a little bit daring.
“Maximalism, when done well, is a powerful form of escapism. Rich patterns, expressive colour and unexpected detail can instantly shift the mood of a room and, in turn, the mood of the people in it. The key is personality – a home should reflect its owners and tell their story. Wallpaper has the power to do this in a way that paint simply can’t, and that, to us, is the greatest luxury of all.”
“Some of our clients are looking to make their schemes feel richer, with more texture, pattern and stronger use of colour
in a bid to add a sense of fun to their homes”, says John Law of Woodhouse & Law. “This definitely makes our job even more exciting, as we have so many newfound, fun opportunities to use individual trims or unusual finishes in our projects.
“Passementerie is definitely key to this; think fringing on cushions and heavy adornments on window treatments. While this maximalism can often be a polarising aesthetic, this more whimsical approach to the design of our homes feels different to previous evolutions – less throwaway and with a greater emphasis than ever before on
1natural materials, sustainability, and craftsmanship.”
“An ‘escape room’ could be somewhere where you can get away from the challenges of the world and find yourself somewhere fun, colourful and creative, with maybe a humorous personality”, says Alison Bracey of Bracey Interiors.
“If this is what you’re looking for then look no further than Cole & Son’s new Baobab collection. Inspired by South African Ardmore Pottery, it’s a fanciful and joyous collection bursting with life, guaranteed to brighten any interior.”
“Interiors are embracing joyful colour and patterns”, says Catrin of Park Furnishers. “Few brands capture this spirit better than Orla Kiely’s mid-centuryinspired prints and playful palettes; perfect for adding energy and individuality to your home, proving that your escape space can be vibrant as well as relaxing.”
top: Alison Bracey loves Cole & Son’s fanciful Baobab collection inset: Orla Kiely mid-century joy at Park Furnishers left: Divine Savages know that a dash of maximalism can enhance even an otherwise restrained room
Transport yourself to the inner walls of a sprawling riad with Mind the Gap’s ‘Tales of Maghreb’ Erfoud wallpaper (Bracey Interiors)
2
THE ARMCHAIR TOURIST
To take the idea of getting it away from it all to its logical conclusion, how about a décor that embraces faraway lands?
“At Arte, we are always exploring new ways to bring innovation to walls”, says Philip Desart. “This might be achieved through a large-scale panoramic that opens a window onto a distant landscape, or a detailed pictorial motif that captures the imagination.”
Stefan Ormenisan of Mind the Gap says people are increasingly finding inspiration in travel, art and culture – “Moving away from soulless beige interiors, and embracing pattern and colour, bringing layers of decoration into their homes like never before.”
“This immersive technique softens the boundaries of a room and allows the colour to fully envelop the space, resulting in an environment which feels cohesive, inviting and wonderfully atmospheric.” 3 2
3DO THE BRIGHT THING
“There’s a strong appetite for colours that spark happiness and joy”, says Ruth Mottershead of Little Greene.
“Energetic, uplifting shades bring a sense of optimism to interiors, while a charming playful pink instantly lifts the mood of a space. Even a small flash of a vibrant colour can introduce personality and positivity, creating a room that feels full of character.
“One of the most effective ways to enhance a sense of sanctuary and an escape from the outside world is through an enveloping colour-drenching or doubledrenching approach, painting walls, woodwork and ceilings in the same or closely related tones.
top: We’re sure we’d sleep better in this idyllic woodland: Rebel Walls right: Raw Tomatillo and Au Lait combine in this uplifting Farrow & Ball-painted hallway
INTERIORS
4
EARTH TO BRISTOL
The biophilic trend, and a demand for warm, earthy colours drawn from nature, is going nowhere fast.
“If you’re looking for a room with slightly more colour, take a look at the latest Designers Guild Collection, Palette Provencale which is inspired by the South of France and features wonderful handdrawn floral designs”, suggests Alison Bracey. “With their calm tranquil colours they can help you create a real garden sanctuary.”
“The recent embracing of the deep, earthy tones within the home is testament not just to this, but also to our yearning to reconnect with nature”, says John of Woodhouse and Law.
“It’s perhaps no surprise then that this movement has been accompanied by an embracing of biophilic design too, connecting us to nature and the outside.
“Integrating natural elements, with their rich diversity of life, shapes and colours, is fast gaining a dedicated following for its ability to greatly improve our wellbeing and creativity. As such, we’ve seen a growing number of pieces made from natural stone and wood coming to the fore this year, often with curved lines and soft shapes to instil a more natural, organic feel to a scheme.
“This extends far beyond fabrics and papers; a chair might offer rounded smooth finishes, while lighting might introduce the same through steam-bent wood or hand-blown glass.”
“Colour has an extraordinary ability to transform the atmosphere of a space, and shape how we feel within it, creating rooms that can energise and uplift, or provide a calming, cocooning retreat”, says Ruth of Little Greene.
“We have seen a growing desire to surround ourselves with comforting, nurturing colours that create a sense of tranquillity. This has led to deeper, warmer tones and rich earthy neutrals which feel reassuring and restful being incorporated into enveloping design schemes, where comfort and a sense of sanctuary are key.
“Greens in particular offer an effortless way to create a nurturing sanctuary, helping to recreate the sense of wellbeing we experience outdoors, creating tranquil, positive spaces that feel balanced and deeply comforting.”
top and left: Earthy colours from Little Greene ground rooms in nature; double drenching dials up the effect below: Local collab! Woodhouse & Law used Divine Savages fabric for this botanical headboard
5
PUTTING ON THE CHINTZ
“We are children of the 1980s”, says Jamie Watkins, “a time when chintz saw its biggest revival to date, and so we grew up with kitsch patterned walls and bold floral carpets all around us.
“These floral memories now instil a heavy dose of what we affectionately call ‘nana
nostalgia’; we even named a wallpaper collection after it. We like vibrant and blousy bloomemblazoned velvet cushions piled on our sofa; we illuminate darker corners with statement lampshades boasting luscious leaves and flamboyant flowers. Accessorising with florals is a simple way of brightening up any home and is inspired by Mother Nature herself.”
6
SLIP INTO NEUTRAL
So, with all the buzz around strong colours and patterns, has pale and interesting had its day? That’ll be a hard no from our experts.
“An ‘escape room’ can be a place of sanctuary, somewhere calming and restful to take you away from the challenges of the world”, says Alison Bracey.
The sentiment is echoed by Lucy Thorn and Karley Coles of Gardiner Haskins: “As the outside world feels increasingly busy and unpredictable, home is no longer simply a place we return to at the end of the day; it can become a space where we can decompress, reset, and reconnect with ourselves and the people around us.
“Interiors now serve not just a practical purpose, but a psychological one as well. For many, this means calm minimalism, soft palettes, and uncluttered spaces that allow the mind to slow down.”
7AND IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT LIVING ROOMS AND BEDROOMS
“Bathrooms quietly bookend our days”, say Lucy and Karley of Gardiner Haskins. “Often the first room we step into each morning and the last before we go to sleep. Because of this, the design and atmosphere of a bathroom can have a powerful effect on our mood and mindset.”
“With everything going on in the world, it’s no surprise that people are looking to their homes as a place to switch off”, says Isobel of HUSK. “A big part
top: Indulge all your Arcadian fantasies with Wild Wild Woods by Divine Savages right: Bespoke kitchen fronts by HUSK opposite: Calm minimalism, soft palettes, and uncluttered spaces allow the mind to slow down; paint by Little Greene
INTERIORS
of that is rethinking the kitchen space. Bristol homes are often full of character already, so the goal isn’t to erase that but to build on it. We’re seeing people mix standard cabinetry with custom pantries, islands, or cabinetry that makes the space work better. Ultimately, the idea of an ‘escape room’ at home isn’t about creating a perfect interior, it’s about making spaces that feel lived in, welcoming and genuinely yours.”
8
DON’T BE AFRAID TO CATCH FEELS
“Textural fabrics are a wonderful way of creating interest and character without being too demanding on the eye”, says Alison Bracey. Philip Desart of Arte agrees. “Textured options, such as our embossed 3D suede collections, provide a cocooning and embracing effect that feels both welcoming and secure, while grasscloth designs add warmth, tactility, and subtle texture.”
“Escape can also mean comfort”, says Jamie Watkins. “We’re seeing a desire for rooms that feel restorative – spaces
layered with tactile fabrics, ambient lighting and designs which invite you to pause.”
“Texture and the importance of natural light take centre stage”, says Emily Mould of Romo.
“Sheers and semi-sheers add depth and dimension to interiors, allowing spaces to feel soft, layered and effortlessly curated, while subtle tonal variations and irregular, chunky yarns bring a relaxed yet considered aesthetic.”
9
GROUND CONTROL
Ian Tomlinson of Chaunceys Timber
Flooring is seeing a big shift towards warmer tones and natural materials that help transform the home into a genuine retreat.
“As earthy tones and tactile textures continue to dominate interior design, warm wood floors have become a key feature in creating calming spaces and bringing a sense of comfort and sophistication.
“Honeyed oak tones, midbrowns and deeper smoked finishes are becoming increasingly popular, as they help anchor a
8
space and make it feel more intimate, while darker floors work particularly well when creating sanctuary spaces within the home. They provide a strong foundation for layered interiors, allowing everything from soft textiles and natural linens to bolder colours and decorative pieces to stand out beautifully, while balancing brighter rooms by adding warmth and depth without overwhelming the scheme.
“There is also increasing awareness around sustainability and responsible sourcing; people are naturally drawn to materials that feel authentic and long lasting, and timber flooring delivers on both counts.”
10AND FOR THE ULTIMATE ESCAPE… ... head for the garden.
“At Little Green Rooms, we believe that a modern escape shouldn’t be a podcast on your commute or an expensive holiday booking. It should be available and close by, for when you really need it, every day”, says Chris Tozer, whose company creates enviable garden retreats.
“In a troubling world, the best “Escape Room” isn’t one you’re locked into. It’s the one that allows you to lock out the noise, reclaim your focus, and realiSe that sometimes, the best way to get your head in the game is to get yourself out of the house.” n
10
Nobody does greater escapes than Rebel Walls; top: Add depth with semi-sheers: Romo
Maximalist way before anyone had coined the term: Charleston Farmhouse. Paint guru Annie Sloan has collaborated with the museum to create three paint colours, so now you can channel your inner Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant at home
CASE STUDY: A BRIGHTER, SMARTER KITCHEN
How Carrie and Tim discovered their perfect kitchen at GARDINER HASKINS, combining thoughtful design, clever storage and Neff’s Slide&Hide® ovens.
When Carrie and Tim first visited the Gardiner Haskins showroom, they were researching ovens. By the time they left, they had discovered the kitchen they had been looking for.
Their previous kitchen had worked hard for more than twenty years, so they knew exactly what worked – and what didn’t. As the units began to look tired, and with no plans to move, the couple decided it was time to invest in a new space that would feel lighter, more practical and better suited to everyday life.
C arrie was keen for a brighter, fresher design that made better use of the room while increasing storage and keeping worktops clear.
“ We knew this would be a big project for us, so we took time to look around at everything on offer”, she says. “We spoke to several suppliers and had some rough plans drawn up, but nothing felt quite right.”
O ne feature quickly made it onto their ‘must-have’ list: Neff’s popular Slide&Hide® ovens. As part of their research, Carrie and Tim visited the Gardiner Haskins showroom to see the ovens in person, where they began talking with kitchen designer Alec Yull.
“Alec talked us through the ovens in depth, before the conversation moved on to our other ideas”, Carrie recalls. “When I spotted the Stoneham Latitude Inscribe cabinets, I thought they were perfect. I’d been looking for something simple, clean and modern, but not completely flat. These have subtle detailing and a bit of character, and I loved the colours.”
After visiting their home to assess the space, Alec proposed several thoughtful changes to the layout. As you enter the kitchen, glass display shelving now balances the cabinetry opposite, helping the room feel more open and airy. Charging points hidden inside a cupboard keep phones and tablets off the worktops, while the old electric cooker has been replaced with a sleek induction hob and deep drawers beneath.
T he utility room door was rehung to open outwards, creating space for an extra larder unit. The fridge-freezer was also repositioned, allowing room for a striking bank of three eye-level ovens, framed by built-in storage that reaches right up to the ceiling.
“That part of the kitchen really added the wow-factor”, says Carrie. “It works brilliantly too. The ovens include microwave, steam and air fryer options, so I don’t need extra appliances cluttering the worktops.”
The couple had previously enjoyed the convenience of a boiling water tap, and Alec recommended upgrading to a Quooker tap
that also dispenses chilled and sparkling water.
“I was keen on the fizzy water function”, says Tim. “That’s probably my favourite part of the kitchen.”
A lthough Carrie loved the cabinetry style, she initially felt unsure about colours and worried the space might feel too dark. Alec suggested a two-tone scheme combining soft green with a warm neutral, paired with offwhite quartz worktops that brighten the room and complement the existing flooring.
“Alec really knows his stuff”, says Carrie. “After my old black worktops, these make the whole kitchen feel so much lighter.”
W ith the design finalised, Alec worked closely with Gardiner Haskins’ installation team to bring everything together.
“Everyone on the team was friendly and professional,” says Carrie. “They minimised disruption and the quality of the finish is excellent.”
The finished kitchen combines clever design with practical details, from discreetly positioned wall sockets to tailored storage for spices, recycling and taller household items.
Want to design your dream kitchen with Gardiner Haskins Interiors? Visit the showroom in Straight Street, Bristol, BS2 0FQ or visit their website www.gardinerhaskins.co.uk/kitchens
DESIGN WITH MEANING
Interior designer MARTA ROSSATO creates distinctive interiors where spatial clarity, materials and craftsmanship express identity while supporting atmosphere and everyday living.
Ahome is never just a place.
Corners hold possibilities, rooms become invitations.
It is a story shaped by how architecture and light interact and by what colours, textures and objects reveal about our personality. At Marta Rossato Interiors, I guide spaces to reflect the rhythms, aspirations, and stories of those who live in them, creating homes that feel curated and poetic at the same time.
The beautiful film Sentimental Value by Joachim Trier begins with a fascinating question: “What if our homes had feelings?” In the opening scenes, the house of the Borg family seems almost alive. Its wooden floors, walls and windows witness joy, tension, memory. Watching it, we sense how profoundly spaces hold the stories of our lives.
Imagine a home that reflects values, supports wellbeing and enjoyment, speaking craftsmanship and effortless living.
DESIGN AS EXPRESSION
At Marta Rossato Interiors this is the way I approach design. Materials, light, colours and textures are the vocabulary through which I let a home express itself.
Through these lenses, interiors become more than a backdrop and details do more than beautifully decorate a space. They
support life’s transitions and give significance to daily rituals, creating the meaning and the atmosphere that transform a house into a home.
A DISTINCTIVE APPROACH
Marta Rossato Interiors is a boutique interior design studio based in Bristol and rooted in Italian elegance with projects across the South West and Italy. I often work with individuals who see their homes as an extension of who they are. They value individuality and are drawn to spaces that feel connected, authentic and distinctive. For them, I create homes that evolve naturally with their lives, expressive and unexpected, calm and deeply personal, never styled or trend-led.
Curated spatial planning plays a fundamental role in achieving this balance. Storage, circulation and flow are seamlessly integrated
into the design so that rooms feel open and intuitive while remaining elegant and timeless. Function becomes almost invisible, allowing the atmosphere of the space to take centre stage.
PROCESS & PHILOSOPHY
Spaces with depth. Materials with meaning. Beauty that is grounded in function and integrity.
My practice is rooted in a guiding belief: redefining luxury living, guided by the value behind every choice. By collaborating with skilled artisans and carefully selected suppliers, I always prioritise quality over quantity and creativity over unnecessary consumption, helping my clients to invest in design that adds true value to their daily lives and to their property.
Curated interior design relies on a solid system to bring it to life. A signature process ensures I can orchestrate all the complexity behind the scenes, bringing clarity to your vision, confidence to your decisions and smoothness in the execution. We can work on one room or an entire property, depending on the level of support you require.
Every project begins with asking the right questions and listening to what the answers reveal. We always start with an informal chat.
JUNE 17-18, WATERSHED
MINDSPA FOR ENTREPRENEURS
Stimulation awaits
NETWORK
KERB APPEAL
YOU’LL KNOW THEM FROM THEIR TRAILS AND MERCHANDISE. NOW READ THE INCREDIBLE STORY BEHIND THE GRAND APPEAL
Internationally known Bristol Children’s Hospital charity The Grand Appeal has raised approaching £100 million, and counting, says co-founder NICOLA MASTERS. Not bad, lad!
Words by Paul Marland Photographer Jon Craig; www.joncraig.co.uk
Bristol’s celebrated The Grand Appeal, headlined by those local heroes, Wallace and Gromit, began way back in 1995, when the city’s old Children’s Hospital, at the top of St. Michael’s Hill, became simply too difficult to use. Could a replacement be built? Back then the Tories were moving aside for Blair, and although some sort of PFI financing deal was mooted, many started wondering if the city itself couldn’t raise the £10million required.
With Great Ormond Street’s 1980s Wishing Well Appeal as inspiration, the founders, including Nicola Masters, the current director, created a little pyjama-clad character to be their mascot, and toddled off to Aardman Animation on Gas Ferry Road to see if they might help bring him to life.
The guys hummed, they hawed, and eventually came back saying sorry, we just haven’t the time. “Well, of course they hadn’t,” Nicola says now. “A Close Shave was just coming out, and they were Oscar-winners. But then they said, why don’t you use Wallace and Gromit instead? We absolutely bit their hands off! It’s our 30th year this year, and I thank our lucky stars for Aardman every day.”
Nicola used to work at Marks & Spencer, then went into merchant banking, though the fit was never quite right. But charity work suits her. “We actually raised £12million,” she says, “and the new hospital opened six years later, at
which point we had to reformulate the business and create a new model that would work for us moving forward. The hospital was opened by HRH Prince Charles, as he was then; he was absolutely charming, as you can imagine, and said: would you like an event at Highgrove? Just like our incredible stroke of luck in 1995, when Nick, Pete, and Dave offered us Wallace and Gromit, that absolutely blew us away.”
Just before Covid the guys had started to notice a new need for something similarly innovative and new. Children come to Bristol Children’s Hospital from across the South West and South Wales, and are often there for a long time, surrounded by beeps, alarms, monitors, strip lights going on at 4:00am…
“But then you come to the end of some really acute treatment, and find that you’ve become quite institutionalised,” Nicola says. “You’ve got used to not having to do things for yourself. You and your family need to know that you can operate on your own without doctors and nurses on call the whole time. So we set our sights on a new development, the first of its kind
“I THANK OUR LUCKY STARS FOR AARDMAN EVERY DAY”
in the UK, called a Patient Hotel, specifically for Bristol Children’s Hospital. We bought a site, not far from St. Michael’s Hospital, and put a budget together: we needed to raise £2 million for a brand new facility, purpose-designed for patients and their families so that they can move out of hospital and into an en-suite bedroom together. There’ll be communal kitchens and a therapy space on site, and beautiful gardens to exercise in…”
Then, of course, the pandemic got in the way. Construction costs went through the roof. “So now the Patient Hotel will cost £4 million, but we’ve raised the money, we’ve got planning permission, and we’re starting on site in the next couple of months. And if all goes to plan, we’ll open early 2028.”
One thing Nicola’s adamant about is that they remain entirely their own thing, and not just an outfit designed to do the bidding of the NHS. “Our job is to advance children’s healthcare. We look for projects to fund which are far from run-of-the-mill. We have two pillars: one is arts, music and play; the other is innovation in children’s healthcare. What can we do to take it forward? It’s our job to push the NHS, so we turn down requests for anything some other children’s hospital has already done. We’re looking to do things differently.”
And though there is a “very small” fund to
left: Nicole Masters: working with Dreamworks, and still dreaming big dreams
support children’s hospitals and hospices around the UK, nearly everything has to be in Bristol. “Our Children’s Hospital was the first purpose-built institution of its type in the UK, and that’s great: we like that, because it’s innovation. And now we’re going to raise the bar again with the Patient Hotel. As a charity we should be pushing the NHS. We shouldn’t just be funding a piece of equipment they’ve already got in Glasgow.”
Much of this relies, of course, on their phenomenal money-raising machine, powered by an increasing number of IP partnerships – but always spearheaded by that with Aardman. “We’ve got relationships throughout Aardman at various different levels but often it’s me, as director of the charity, and Sean Clarke as their MD. But Nick Park comes to the hospital sometimes, and Pete Lord you’ll see on ITV or BBC Points West, talking on our behalf. Nick, Pete and Dave Sproxton are all patrons; it blows me away how generous they are.
“And then there’s Nick, who never asks for anything but opens up his little black book to us every few years when we do a Trail. This year, for instance, he approached Paul McCartney, who agreed to codesign a Yellow Submarine sculpture for us. Every sculpture that goes out on the streets has a minimum of five contracts behind it, and sometimes 10 – this year, for instance, we did a Woody to go with the earlier Buzz Lightyear Gromit, and though we don’t pay Pixar – or anybody – a fee, they do all hold us to the highest standards – and rightly so. We’ve Madagascar, Star , Poppy from Trolls… and always respect their IP.”
But in the spirit of Aardman, The Grand Appeal’s appeal is as much to do with local partners as it is international household names. “Rolls Royce, for instance, have sponsored us through all four Trails now, and Gardner Haskins had a fantastic artist called Marnie, who Cuckoo! Gromit, with a working clock in it, and this year we had a Gromit made completely of topiary. So you have to add interest, constantly keep moving forward.”
For more: www.grandappeal.org.uk
An exceptional ground floor garden apartment in the
of Clifton
Offering beautifully
With three generous bedrooms, three bathrooms, useful basement storage and utility space, a private garden and detached garden room, this rare chainfree home is just moments from the cafés, boutiques, and charm of the village, with potential for off-street parking, subject to consent.
ORIGINAL THINKING
The Government is investing £25 million in the area’s creative industries
Creative businesses and freelancers in the West of England are in line for major government support to help them innovate, up-skill and attract private investment.
The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority is one of six UK regions with strengths in creative industries to have been awarded £25 million as part of the Government’s Creative Places Growth Fund.
“CREATIVITY
HAS NO POSTCODE”
The landmark allocation comes just after the West of England’s new Growth Strategy named the sector as one of its five key growth areas for the next ten years. Since 2015, almost 18,500 jobs were created in the creative industries in the West – the most of any English region, including London. The West’s new Growth Strategy targets 28 per cent growth across its overall economy in the coming decade, a third more than the one before.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy revealed that the fund will be split equally across these regions to drive growth, innovation and investment, and will empower regional Mayors to support creative professionals, businesses and young people in their communities with access to finance, mentoring and networking opportunities to help them connect with investors and
skills programmes. She says, “Creativity has no postcode – whether it’s a musician in Bristol, a filmmaker in Bath, or a video games developer in South Gloucestershire.
“We know that it is not one size fits all. That’s why we are committed to growing our creative industries in every corner of the nation as part of our Creative Industries Sector Plan, and hope that this devolved funding will be just what these regions need to make their creative industries the best that they can be.”
Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, adds, “Creativity is at the heart of the West’s identity and our economy, from Oscarwinning animators to our worldfamous festivals and so much more. With this £25 million investment from the government, we can help
businesses grow and create more opportunities for local people.”
This funding will grow the already booming creative industries of the West of England - including film and TV, music and createch.
The UK’s third largest production hub, the West of England is a global centre for natural history film making and a film tourism hotspot. The new arena at the Brabazon site, the former home of Concorde in Filton Airfield, also presents a major opportunity to elevate the region’s music sector (see page 79).
For more: www.westofengland-ca.gov.uk
Brabazon: how it’s going; inset: Helen Godwin, mayor of the West of England and culture secretary Lisa Nandy
AVIVA
Bristol’s £1bn arena gets its name
Bristol’s long-awaited 20,000-capacity indoor arena at Brabazon – the centrepiece of the major redevelopment of the former aerospace site where the Concorde jets were built – has announced that it will be called Aviva Arena when it opens in 2028.
The naming rights deal between YTL Live, the operator behind the venue, and insurance giant Aviva marks a significant milestone for what is set to become the largest live entertainment venue in the West of England.
The developers predict that the project could contribute around £1 billion to the regional economy during its first decade, while the construction phase alone is expected to create more than 2,000 jobs.
“THE ARENA COULD CONTRIBUTE AROUND £1 BILLION TO THE REGIONAL ECONOMY DURING ITS FIRST DECADE”
Once the arena is operational, a further 500 permanent roles are anticipated across venue operations, events and hospitality.
When it opens its doors, Aviva Arena is expected to host more than 120 events a year, attracting around 1.4 million visitors annually and positioning Bristol as a key destination on the international touring circuit, capable of hosting the world’s biggest music acts alongside sporting events, comedy tours and major entertainment productions.
The arena will sit at the heart of the YTL Arena Bristol development, an entertainment complex built inside the enormous Brabazon Hangars. The vast historic structures will be transformed into a modern venue featuring not only the arena itself but also conference and exhibition facilities designed to attract largescale events.
To mark the naming announcement, singer-songwriter Tom Grennan performed a special set beneath the wings of Concorde at Aerospace Bristol, celebrating the project’s aviation heritage and its future as a cultural hub.
Supporters of the development say the arena will play a key role in Bristol’s continuing evolution
as a creative city. The venue is being designed specifically for large touring productions, with extensive backstage areas, multiple dressing rooms and one of the largest service yards in Europe capable of handling dozens of touring trucks.
Transport connections will also be strengthened as part of the wider Brabazon New Town redevelopment. A new railway station planned nearby is expected to make the arena easily accessible from across the region and beyond, helping to draw audiences from across the South West and Wales.
Sustainability is also central to the project. The arena is planned as a fully electric venue, reflecting the growing focus across the live entertainment industry on reducing environmental impact while accommodating increasingly large touring productions.
For Aviva, the partnership expands its portfolio of major cultural sponsorships. The company already lends its name to Aviva Stadium in Dublin and Aviva Studios in Manchester, linking the Bristol venue to a wider network of prominent sports and arts destinations.
For Bristol itself, the arena represents something even bigger – a statement of intent. Long overshadowed by venues in London, Birmingham and Manchester, the city is now positioning itself firmly on the map for global entertainment.
When Aviva Arena finally opens in 2028, Bristol will not just have a new venue. It will have a stage capable of hosting the world.
For more www.avivaarena.co.uk
Dame Amanda Blanc, Aviva; Tom Grennan; Sir Francis Yeoh, YTL Corporation, and Helen Godwin, West of England Mayor
left: The YTL Live entertainment complex will house Aviva Arena (right) in the central hangar
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Retirement planning is something many of us know we should address - yet it’s easy to delay until ‘later’. Between careers, family life and constant headlines about markets and tax rules, financial decisions can feel complex.
Tim O’Loughlin, a Bristol-based financial planner and Principal at Cleeve Financial Planning, explains why structured planning matters.
Why is retirement planning particularly important in your 50s and 60s?
People are living longer, which is positivebut retirement could last 25 to 30 years or more. The key question is how to structure your finances to support the lifestyle you want over that time.
Many people have pensions from different employers, ISAs, property or business interests. Without a joined-up plan, it can be difficult to see how everything fits together.
Retirement planning isn’t simply about stopping work. It’s about defining what you want the next stage of life to look like and building a flexible framework to support it. Reviewing your position can bring clarity and confidence about the years ahead.
Why might professional advice be valuable in today’s climate?
Over recent years we’ve seen significant change - pension freedoms, evolving tax allowances, interest rate shifts and market volatility. Even financially confident individuals can find it challenging to stay on top of developments. Our role is to provide structure and perspective. When markets fluctuate, it’s natural to feel concerned. A clear long-term strategy can help people remain focused on their objectives rather than reacting to short-term events.
HOW SECURE IS YOUR FUTURE?
We also look at how pensions, investments and tax planning work together in a coordinated way, aligned with wider goals such as retirement income or supporting family members. Major decisions - retiring, selling a business or downsizing - are rarely purely financial. Having a professional to explain options and implications can help bring reassurance at important moments.
“ RETIREMENT PLANNING ISN’T ABOUT SIMPLY STOPPING WORK”
Where should someone start?
Start with a conversation. A structured discussion with a qualified adviser can help you understand your current position and consider next steps.
The end of the tax year is often a useful time to review your finances. Many allowances operate on a tax-year basis, so taking stock before 5 April can help ensure your plans remain aligned with your longer-term objectives.
At Cleeve Financial Planning, we offer an initial meeting without obligation - an opportunity to discuss your goals in a straightforward way.
The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.
The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and are generally dependent on individual circumstances.
For more information, visit cleevefinancialplanning.co.uk
Cleeve Financial Planning is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website http://www. sjp.co.uk/products.
The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Cleeve Financial Planning is a trading name of Cleeve FP Limited. SJP Approved [03/26]
EXECUTORS: TO ACT OR NOT TO ACT
Laura Webber of AMD SOLICITORS can advise you...
When someone makes a will they should have appointed an executor or multiple executors. The role of an executor is to administer someone’s estate to ensure their assets are distributed in accordance with their wishes. As you might imagine, the duties involved impose important responsibilities on the appointed executor(s), which can be time-consuming and stressful. In addition to this, executors can be personally liable if their duties are not carried out properly.
So what are your options as an executor?
ACT AND INSTRUCT A SOLICITOR
The estate administration process can take many months, have unexpected complications and is often an emotionally difficult process, particularly if the executor has lost a close family member or friend. Instructing a solicitor to assist with the estate administration can provide an executor with comfort in the knowledge that while they are still responsible for the estate, an experienced professional is dealing with the day to day work for them, as well as the often complex probate applications.
CHOOSE NOT TO ACT
If you do not want to act as executor, you can choose to renounce your appointment. This means that you give up your right to act as executor. This is done by way of a Deed of Renunciation. However, it is important to note that if an executor has taken steps to deal with
the estate or has ‘intermeddled’ they will not be able to renounce.
CHOOSE NOT TO ACT, FOR NOW
If you do not want to give up your power to act completely, you can choose to reserve your power. This can be useful if, for example, an executor lives abroad and it may not be practical for them to act, but they would like to keep the option to act in the future. The other appointed executor(s) would carry on dealing with the day-to-day running of the estate and would apply for probate. If the executor with power reserved wanted to step back in at a later stage, they would need to apply to the Probate Registry for a ‘doublegrant’ to be issued.
APPOINT AN ATTORNEY
If there is only one executor and they do not want to act but know someone who would, they could appoint them as their attorney for the proposes of dealing with the estate administration.
An appointed executor may be more than happy to act, or may have been completely unaware the deceased appointed them an executor. Whatever the circumstances, the executor has various options to consider and is not necessarily bound to act. If you require advice regarding your appointment as executor under a deceased’s will our probate team is available to assist. Please contact us on 0117 962 1205, by email to info@ amdsolicitors.com or through our website www.amdsolicitors.com. n
“ THE ROLE OF AN EXECUTOR IS TO ADMINISTER SOMEONE’S ESTATE TO ENSURE THEIR ASSETS ARE DISTRIBUTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THEIR WISHES”
100 Henleaze Road, Henleaze, BS9 4JZ
15 The Mall, Clifton, BS8 4DS
139 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, BS8 2PL
2 Station Road, Shirehampton, BS11 9TT www.amdsolicitors.com
THE RECTORY
A historic rosy-red brick property set in over two acres of glorious, peaceful gardens: who wouldn’t want to call this place home?
Words by Ursula Cole
This house may not be in Granchester (it’s in Oldbury-on-Severn), but it is an old vicarage (or at least a rectory, and we’re not ones to quibble), and there’s something about its tranquil, bucolic nature that has us wondering whether the church clock still stands at ten to three, and if there’s honey still for tea.
That’s not to say it’s stuck in the past. This is a magnificent home which effortlessly blends period elegance with modern country living, set within over two acres of beautifully landscaped grounds.
Approaching it along the gated gravel driveway you’re immediately struck by the air of both grandeur and privacy, and as you step through the porch into the entrance hall the building’s heritage comes to life. Original flooring, alcoves, and high ceilings whisper stories of the past, while light streams in through the large sash windows.
Each of the main living spaces has its own personality: the formal drawing room, the laidback sitting room and the gracious dining room, each with its own ornamental fireplace and views across the gardens.
The kitchen, with its central Aga and wonderful Welsh slate floors,, evokes a true sense of countryside homeliness and is perfectly complemented by a utility room, boot room, and a plate room which makes an ideal traditional pantry.
Outside, the grounds are at least as delightful. The meticulously maintained gardens include a lavenderbordered Victorian tennis court, restored to its original location, a well-established orchard, and a heated outdoor swimming pool. There’s also a detached garage, hayloft, and stabling potential set around a charming courtyard, offering scope for further development.
Unsurprisingly, the charming village of Oldburyon-Severn is situated along the banks of the River Severn, surrounded by rolling fields, winding lanes, and an abundance of wildlife. A tight-knit community
flourishes here, supported by a well -regarded primary school, a thriving village shop, an excellent local pub, a church and a village hall.
Let’s finish by quoting the current owners.
“Leaving London, we longed for somewhere that felt like home the moment we arrived”, they say. “We had almost given up when we drove up to The Rectory. The silence was the first thing we noticed: profound, enveloping. A hawk hovered over the garden, and we just knew this was a house with soul. Its symmetry and grace, the generous proportions of every room, the sash windows with original glass catching the light, the view to the Cotswolds and over the old church wall – it felt timeless. A home that had stood for generations, solid and true.
“We shall miss everything about The Rectory: sitting on the south-facing doorstep enjoying the first scent of cut grass in spring; writing books at the kitchen table; watching light move across the rooms. This is more than a house, it is a refuge; a rare, magical home that truly becomes part of you.”
Maybe our Rupert Brooke allusion wasn’t so fanciful after all.
HOUSE NUMBERS
Where? Oldbury-on-Severn
Guide price: £1.5m
Bedrooms: 5
Receptions: 3
Bath/shower rooms: 3
Outside: 2.02 acres of gardens, garage, outdoor swimming pool, astroturf tennis court ,garage, hayloft, and stabling
Call my agent:
Fine & Country www.fineandcountry.co.uk
MEET THE PROPERTY EXPERT
Buying or selling? For a smooth and successful outcome, give these folk a call . . .
SCOTT HILTON
FOUNDER & DIRECTOR, BOX PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
0117 450 5286 www.boxpropertymanagement.co.uk
What do you enjoy most about working in the Bristol property market?
We enjoy creating and maintaining safe, well-presented homes for people across the city. Bristol is a vibrant and growing place, and it’s rewarding to play a role in improving the standard of housing here. Meeting new clients who bring different challenges for us to solve is something we really enjoy. It keeps our work interesting and pushes us to constantly improve. Receiving positive feedback from tenants and landlords about our service and attention to detail is also incredibly rewarding.
What advice would you give to someone who is questioning their current managing agent?
We would advise anyone in that position to take a step back and assess the value of the service they’re receiving for the fee they’re paying. Ask yourself a few key questions:
• Are your emails and calls returned within 24 hours?
• Do you have a dedicated property manager who knows your property needs?
• Are you receiving a personal and professional service?
• Is your agent flexible and proactive?
If the answer to any of these is no, it may be time to explore other options and find an agent who delivers the level of service you should expect.
Why should readers choose to work with you?
We aim to offer a service that truly stands out in the Bristol market. By combining a fresh, modern approach with strong local knowledge, we’re able to adapt quickly to changes in the property market.
CHARLOTTE STRANG
DIRECTOR & FOUNDER, STRANG & CO 07816 891 660 www.strangandco.com
What sets your business apart within the Bristol market?
Bristol has many estate agents but relatively few buying agents. Strang & Co is independent of any agency, enabling us to search the entire market with a particular focus on off-market opportunities.
Our professional background and experience enable us to identify strong opportunities, negotiate effectively, and guide each purchase through to a successful completion.
What advice would you give to someone buying this year?
Be as financially prepared as possible before commencing your search. This may include arranging a mortgage in principle or ensuring you are in a fully proceedable position – for example, not needing to sell another property before moving forward. Sellers will often favour a buyer who is immediately proceedable over a slightly higher offer from someone whose finances are not yet in place.
It is also important to research the property, its location, and comparable sales so that you have a clear understanding of its likely market value before making an offer. Finally, be prepared to act decisively when the right property arises, as well-prepared buyers who can move quickly often have a significant advantage in competitive markets.
AMY PROCTOR MRICS
REGIONAL PARTNER, GARRINGTON PROPERTY FINDERS
0117 214 0165
www.garringtonsouthwest.co.uk
WILLIAM SWINBURN
MANAGING DIRECTOR, BY DESIGN
0117 427 2346
www.bydesignhomes.com
What gives your business a distinct edge in Bristol?
By Design offers a personal, thoughtful and highly consistent approach to estate agency. Exceptional presentation and intelligent representation sit at the heart of what we do. Every stage of our clients’ journey is handled by one trusted senior professional throughout, creating continuity, accountability and a far more bespoke experience. With clearer communication and a deeper understanding of both the property and the client’s circumstances, we are able to provide stronger representation and create the best possible foundation for an exceptional result.
What is your view of the Bristol property market over the next 12 months?
Bristol remains one of the most desirable places to live in the country, and demand continues to outweigh supply. For that reason, the market remains resilient and full of opportunity. In several recent sales, strong
What do you personally specialise in?
As a property finder, I represent my clients in the search for their ideal home across Bristol and Somerset, saving them valuable time and money along the way. I use my relationships and network to access offmarket opportunities and have strategies to uncover homes that never reach the open market. On a practical level, I liaise with estate agents, attend viewings and carry out detailed due diligence, then oversee the transaction through to completion so clients go through the process fully informed.
What sets your business apart within the Bristol market?
I’m proud to be part of Garrington, the UK’s largest buying agency. With national reach, strong relationships and proprietary tools that uncover homes others may miss, we combine the resources of a leading firm with genuine local expertise built over 30 years of advising buyers. Having lived and worked in Bristol for many years, I bring detailed knowledge of its neighbourhoods, planning landscape and lifestyle.
What advice would you give to someone buying this year?
The market has been steady in recent months, but activity is starting to pick up as we head into spring. My advice is to focus on the location, layout and long-term suitability. The best houses are often agreed quickly, and before they go to market, so being well prepared and clear on your priorities is key.
Why should readers choose to work with you?
A recent client told me,“I don’t know what I would have done without you” and that captures it perfectly. Much of my value happens behind the scenes: getting access to properties before anyone else, using my contact base, uncovering important details and driving the process to completion. I recently secured a house against seven other buyers; having a property finder demonstrated to the seller that my client was committed and motivated.
competition between buyers has enabled us to achieve results comfortably above asking price. While the wider economic backdrop will always have an influence, beautifully presented homes in Bristol continue to attract strong interest and inspire buyer confidence.
What advice would you offer someone preparing to sell successfully?
Start early and think carefully about presentation. Buyers often make decisions within moments of stepping through the door, based on how a property makes them feel. The strongest campaigns usually begin well before a home officially comes to market. Just as importantly, invest in the agent, not simply the agency or the name above the door. Ask who will be your main point of contact and who will actually be showing your home. All too often, the person you meet at the outset is not the one who remains closely involved as the sale progresses.
We recommend carefully considered improvements, whether that means bringing in a decorator, refining presentation or, in some cases, using a professional stager. Presenting a home in its best possible light can increase interest, encourage stronger competition and ultimately improve the final result achieved.
For further information, or to get in touch, scan the QR code
What makes your business different from others in the city?
RUPERT OLIVER DIRECTOR,
RUPERT OLIVER PROPERTY AGENTS
0117 452 3555
www.rupertoliver.co.uk
What do you enjoy most about working in the property industry?
Undoubtably houses and people; or ‘people & places’ I suppose is how you could summarise it. Every front door on every terrace in Bristol opens to a different interior – condition, style, layout etc– and coupled with that, every client has a different set of triggers, or reasons, as to why they wish to move.
Marrying these two key aspects together – the personal and the property – is a dark art, honed over decades of experience but as enjoyable today as it was when I started in the business 29 years ago.
What sets your business apart within the Bristol market?
I think it is a combination of our experience, expertise and dedication to a particular set
We are estate agents who also own and operate across the construction industry, and this gives us and our clients a unique leverage compared to traditional estate agents. Having the in-house expertise in property development helps us provide an integrated service where we are able to offer a tailored package to our clients including design, build and renovations. Clients generally view estate agents with construction expertise as more reliable, since they can back their promises with in-house resources and practical knowledge.
Tell us something about your business and why readers should contact you?
Choosing the right estate agent is vital in Bristol’s competitive property market. Airsat Real Estate combines local expertise with personalised service, ensuring clients make informed decisions. Our team understands market trends and the unique character of each area, tailoring solutions to meet diverse needs. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, investor or a landlord, we prioritise transparent communication, integrity, and client success. Offering end-to-end services, from appraisals to closing, we collaborate with trusted professionals to streamline the process. Committed to Bristol’s growth, Airsat actively supports the community through sustainable practices and local partnerships. Trust Airsat Real Estate for a seamless, reliable experience.
of properties; not just price but certainly at the ‘quality’ end of the market. As a team we represent properties between £500k and £5m, in a wide and diverse area, but each is special in its own unique way.
I call it the ‘want not need’ market: ie you might ‘want’ a penthouse flat – but you don’t ‘need’ one. My job is to sell you the fact that you do!
What do you personally specialise in?
Since cutting my teeth in south west London in 1997 (I moved to Bristol in 2001) I have unashamedly drifted to the top end of the market and I suspect that is, individually at least, what I am best known for. Since the start of 2023, and despite everything the market has thrown at us since then, I have accounted for 72% of completed sales in Clifton north of £2.5m. We also hold the ceiling price record for both a Bristol town house, and the ceiling price record for a Bristol apartment.
We work hard for our clients and always strive to achieve the very best for them that we can.
LILI OLIVER DIRECTOR, OLIVER ROTH PROPERTY CONSULTANTS
0791 7855 098; www.oliverroth.co.uk
What do you specialise in?
I am a buying agent working with retained clients to help them find and acquire their perfect new home. I act solely for buyers.
While many of my clients are relocating to Bristol, both nationally and internationally, I also represent a number of Bristol-based clients. Finding that dream home is timeconsuming and so often stressful; my role is to make the process efficient, seamless, and even enjoyable.
Having lived in Bristol through all the key stages of adult life, from graduate to raising a family, I understand the factors that matter most to buyers at these different stages. To me, it’s important that buying agents are not seen as acting only at the top end of the market: having independent, strategic advice as a buyer, to balance the guidance selling agents provide to their clients, is just as relevant to the first-time buyer as it is to the resizer or downsizer navigating their next move.
With two school-aged children, family searches are always a particular favourite of mine. While for every buyer it’s about so much more than just the house, for families I especially enjoy advising on the many additional considerations I’m well placed to support with: how homes need to adapt as children grow older, insights into local schools, managing often hellish commutes, access to green space, and, of course, proximity to the very best nearby pizza.
BRISTOL & CLIFTON’S PREMIER COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AGENTS
Keep up-to-date with our latest news, deals, testimonials and market comment at our website: www.burstoncook.co.uk
St Mary’s Way, BS35
TO LET – £14,500 PAX
1,832 sq ft (170.19 sq m)
An exciting opportunity for a first floor office at The St Mary’s Centre in Thornbury amongst various national and independent occupiers. Ample customer and staff parking on site.
Barrs Court Road, BS30 FOR SALE –
£795,000 exc
8,554 sq ft (794.67 sq m)
A freehold site of circa 0.55 acres, comprising an office building, two industrial buildings and further storage buildings. To suit owner occupier, developer, or investor.
Denmark Street, BS1 TO LET – From £10,000 pax
283 –1,167 sq ft (26.29 -108.41 sq m)
Two units, available over ground floor. Ideal for professional use, beauty, hair, retail etc. New lease terms available.
West Street, Bedminster FOR SALE / TO LET
916 sq ft (85.10 sq m)
An excellent opportunity to acquire a new build commercial unit, offering ground floor open plan accommodation in shell condition, ready for own bespoke fit out. Suitable for a variety of uses within Class E.
High Street, Staple Hill, BS16 TO LET
645 sq ft (59.92 sq m)
An exceptional unit available to let or for sale on a popular pitch offering open plan sales with rear kitchenette, storage and W.C. Quoting £13,000.
Park Stret, BS1
2,107 sq ft (195.74 sq m)
A prime retail unit with a bright frontage, offering sales space to the front with rear changing room facilities. The basement offers ample storage space and a single W.C. New flexible lease available.
Westfield Park, Redland, BS6 TO LET – £23.00 psf
1,521 sq ft (141.3 sq m)
A contemporary office located just off Whiteladies Road. Due to be refurbished to a high standard with 3 onsite car parking spaces.
Gloucester Road, BS7 FOR SALE – POA
Fully let, mixed use investment opportunity on a fantastic retail pitch and popular location on Gloucester Road. Comprising three retail units, three residential flats, a four-bedroom HMO plus MOT/car repair garage with yard.
Thornbury Industrial Estate, BS35 TO LET – POA
3,493 sq ft (324.5 sq m)
A modern industrial unit located on Thornbury Industrial Estate providing large open industrial space at ground floor. There are 4 car parking spaces to the front of the unit plus yard space in front of the loading door.
Clothier Road, BS4
TO LET - £47,350 PAX
4,987 sq ft (463.29 sq m)
A well located industrial unit benefitting from car parking to the front and yard space to the rear. The unit also benefits from office accommodation with welfare facilities.
Julian Cook
BRISTOL LIVES
JED HARTLEY
Valley Fest is back this year; let’s meet the guy in charge of curating the Regeneration Area, a space dedicated to big ideas about how we care for our soils, rivers, food systems and communities
Jed grew up helping his dad at festivals before moving on to organising folk and punk gigs with friends. “I enjoy being a part of a group that makes things happen”, he says. “I also love the unexpected situations you find in events work. A few weeks ago I was researching people utilising fungus to improve our water quality; last week I had to move giant giraffe heads into an old munitions bunker on the coast of South Wales. Next week, who knows what I’ll be doing?”
Tell us about the Regeneration Stage
The idea is to discuss the many awe-inspiring ways people are pushing back against the degradation of our soils, rivers, land, food systems, and have a banging time while doing it. Luke Hasell, the founder of Valley Fest, is a regenerative, organic farmer himself, and is very passionate about these subjects, so it’s great to work alongside him on this.
Are there any special talks or sessions you think people really shouldn’t miss?
I think Catalyst Culture on Friday afternoon will be a really exciting panel, discussing people who’ve seen an issue and gone out and done something about it. Also, Hunt for the Shadow Wolf on Saturday afternoon with Derek Gow, the UK’s first beaverbreeding pioneer, a maverick rewilder who’s now looking into the history of wolves and whether we might do the same with them. This will be one of those witty and insightful talks people will discuss for a while, I’m sure.
We hear you live in the woods. How did that come about?
And how’s the Wi-Fi out there? Ahh it’s terrible. The WiFi, not the woods. The woods are just as they’re meant to be. Full of life and a kind of perfect chaos that modern life is missing sometimes. How did it come about? We spent years living in a van and were desperate for some privacy and a bit of space.
“I enjoy being part of a group that makes things happen”
What’s the best thing about living so close to nature?
Seeing the seasons change around you week by week, and the animals (a goldcrest tapping at the window) gives a real sense of nature. Of course, sometimes you’re battling with the elements and classic British weather!
Does that way of living influence how you think about regeneration and the future? The other way around. Thinking regeneratively feeds into how we live daily. How we garden, cook, and spend more ethically.
Where else have you lived?
We lived up in Bishopston and down in Stokes Croft back in the day. I loved its independence and the cosy geography of it. Hilly cities allow you to get perspective, even if that perspective is sometimes just, “I need to fix my bike”. Also the variety of music that would spill out onto the streets some nights, walking from the Canteen, up under the Arches, on to the Blue Lagoon and the Gallimaufry (The Prom, back then) and the incredible food.
Share a favourite spot
Probably that green strip from the allotments above the City Farm in St Werburghs, on to Purdown and Stoke Park Estate. It’s lush to see those wide open spaces as you come up to them. Sometimes I’d stop by Better Food on the way back, tell myself I was getting veg but grab a cake or two as well…
Where would you take someone visiting the city for the first time? Hidden gems only please!
Hidden gems; I thought the internet had done away with
those! Base Social Centre in Easton: you can go down and get your bike fixed, pick up enough knowledge to help others as well as getting stuck in yourself, and they also have wicked Food & Folk nights. Maybe a walk up Snuff Mills in the day. It’s a way out of the centre but you might see a kingfisher; that’s a proper special thing to see in a city.
What do you do when you’re not curating festival stages?
I hike with my partner. We did the West Highland Way last year, wild camping all the way. I also make horrendous acoustic noise with guitars, violin and clarinet. Whenever I play, my goal is to make someone think ‘I could do that much better’ and hopefully pick up an instrument themselves. It’s encouragement disguised as horror, but don’t worry I promise I won’t be playing at the festival.
What acts are you looking forward to at Valley Fest?
On Friday we have Fossilheads playing in the evening – climateconscious cabaret (‘putting the ooh in existential doom!’); and the inimitable Clayton Blizzard – he’s folk-punk hip-hop, and genuinely up there with the best Bristol bands I’ve seen live.
What do you hope people will leave the Regeneration Stage thinking or feeling?
I’d like people to leave with an idea of some of the incredible, innovative and positive projects that are tackling our ongoing environmental crises as well as some unique ways that they can be involved.
Valley Fest returns 30 July-2 August www.valleyfest.co.uk
