April'15 issue

cotswold

preview April 2015

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CHOCOHOLICS

artisan treats for easter

springtime features

cada art & antique fair | cheltenham jazz national gardens scheme open days spring grand sale at sudeley castle stratford-upon-avon literary festival

INTERVIEWS & BUSINESS PROFILES

nick deverell-smith | will hadland | mel james church street townhouse | whichford pottery

Cotswold preview APRIL 15 YOUR ESSENTIAL monthly GUIDE TO the cotswolds1

design inspiration Malthouse Lane Long Compton Warwickshire CV36 5JL Tel: 01608 684455 Email: info@hutchinsonfurniture.co.uk

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APRIL 15 Cotswold preview www.hutchinsonfurniture.co.uk

welcome …to the April issue of Cotswold Preview.

The year’s festivals got off to a flying start last month and in April the momentum continues. In this issue, we highlight no fewer than eight festivals across the region, spanning music, literature, comedy, gardens and… motorbikes. Without wanting to choose a ’favourite child’, two do merit particular attention because of their national/international stature. Firstly, Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival, now in its eight year, which has become one of the UK’s most significant literary events (Saturday 25 April to Sunday 3 May); and secondly, Cheltenham Jazz Festival, which presents six days of world-class classic and contemporary jazz, blues, soul and pop (Wednesday 29 April to Monday 4 May). Editorial features about both of these can be found in our ever-expanding What’s On section.

In no particular order of favouritism, other festivals we recommend this month include Bath Comedy Festival (running until Monday 6 April); Prescott Bike Festival (Sunday 12); Chipping Norton Literary Festival, fondly known as ChipLitFest (Thursday 23 to Sunday 26); and Cheltenham Poetry Festival (Monday 20 April to Sunday 3 May).

If you enjoy the finer things in life, don’t miss CADA’s annual Art & Antique Fair which takes place at Blenheim Palace (Thursday 16 to Sunday 19). It is held in the palace’s beautiful Orangery – a fitting setting for 29 dealers’ exquisite collections.

Another event offering a hugely fun day of browsing and shopping is Sudeley Castle’s Spring Grand Sale (Thursday 23 to Sunday 26), where you can find an eclectic, albeit much more grounded, range of home accessories as well as fashion, gifts and food and drink from many niche brands.

As always, we would love to hear from you if there is anything you think we should know (and promote) about new and exciting happenings in your part of the Cotswolds. All our contact details can be found on page 6.

We wish you a very indulgent Easter…

The Cotswold Preview team

family matters feature… SCHOOLS IN HARMONY

Schools inharmony

property feature… SPRING 2015 PROPERTY COMMENT

We examine the approaches taken by leading Cotswold schools to keep music relevant for the next generation…

Spring 2015 Property comment

Warwick School

A springtime analysis of this year’s Cotswold housing market by the area’s leading estate agents and property specialists…

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

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Church Cottage, Shilton, Oxfordshire: currently on the market with Jackson-Stops & Staff, Burford

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Cover image: Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe: Church Circle & Wing © Kim Gibbon

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contents APRIL 15

in this issue...

69 what’s on

93

12

april diary

45

what’s on features

56

exhibition in the spotlight

60

april listings

88

highlighted charity event

local highlights 90

news & events

property & home 98

property feature: spring 2015 property comment

105 highlighted properties 120 editor’s choice: interiors 122 gardens feature: NGS new gardens for 2015 128 garden design tips: Andrew Jordan

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APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

Refurbishment & Renovation Bespoke Kitchens & Joinery Fine Interiors & Bathrooms New Build Design Home Accessories STYLE AND SUBSTANCE

After 6 very successful years in Chipping Campden, Symes is now under new management, moving to Stow-on-the-Wold this Spring and opening a new showroom in Surrey this Summer.

Specialising in bespoke kitchens and joinery, fine interiors and renovation works, we are dedicated to your vision of creating a beautiful home.

Offering full design services, we compliment this by also providing a complete design and build option.

Whether you are wishing to add a bespoke kitchen to your home or undertake building and interior works, we will not only create the look you want, but deliver your project with the greatest attention to detail, efficiency and professionalism.

For a complete and comprehensive tailored solution to your property needs please contact us

New Surrey Showroom Opening Summer 2015 New Stow-on-the-Wold Showroom Opening Spring 2015 High Street, Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire, GL55 6HB info@symesinteriors.co.uk www.symesinteriors.co.uk 01386 841060

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

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contents april 15

160 family matters 136 editor’s choice: children’s selection 138 school reports 139 family matters feature: schools in harmony 146 legal comment: Withy King

style & lifestyle 159

150 editor’s choice: fashion & beauty 151 style feature: turning heads 154 editor’s choice: food & drink 156 chef profile: Nick Deverell-Smith 158 inn profile: The Church Street Townhouse 160 food & drink feature: a passion for chocolate 164 recommended books by: Octavia’s Bookshop 166 the preview interview: Will Hadland 171 specialist business profile: Whichford Pottery 174 new business profile: Contenta Therapies 176 my cotswolds: Keith Beckingham

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150 APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

CO-EDUCATIONAL | BOARDING AND DAY | 100 ACRES

Location. Location. Location: green meadow, glassy river, those dreaming spires… and ‘wow’ facilities

Mini Open Mornings most Saturdays Main Open Day: Saturday 16th May Contact the Registrar: registrar@stedwardsoxford.org Tel: 01865 319200

TATLER SCHOOLS GUIDE Cotswold preview APRIL 15

www.stedwardsoxford.org

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WHAT’S ON FEATURE: CADA ART & ANTIQUE FAIR Régate à Henley by Jacques Emile Blanche, presented by Trinity House Paintings at the CADA Art & Antique Fair

Cotswold

PREVIEW Contributing Writer Sally Bult editorial@guidemedia.co.uk Sales Manager, North Cotswolds Susannah Gardiner susannah@guidemedia.co.uk Sales Manager, Oxfordshire Cotswolds Sarah Ellison sarah@guidemedia.co.uk Sales Manager, Central & South Cotswolds Lucy Dowie lucy@guidemedia.co.uk Design & Production Eve Bodniece eve@guidemedia.co.uk

Thursday 16 – Sunday 19 April

Editor’s Choice… INTERIORS

We love this Fresco Secco wallpaper by Zoffany which is part of its Constantina Damask collection. The damask is printed with translucent metallic inks to give a modern interpretation of the time-worn plaster of ancient frescos. It is pictured here in Bronze. In the same collection, another of our favourites is the Elena pattern which again has been distressed to give it an antique feel. This design comes as both a wallpaper and a silk mix fabric. To order samples or for local stockist details, visit zoffany.com

Cotswold Preview is published by:

The fourth annual CADA Fair returns to the elegant setting of Blenheim Palace, showcasing top quality art and antiques from 29 exhibitors…

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Cotswold preview APRIL 15

Editor’s Choice

Our monthly selection of useful and beautiful designs for the home…

One of the best kept secrets in Broadway is Sue Parkinson’s Home store which is tucked away in Kennel Lane, off the High Street.

As with its sister store of fashion and accessories, it is a great place to find beautifully crafted and stylish pieces. The current edit includes this Dania onion box, in teak, by Skagerak (£59) which would work just as well for storing towels or magazines. Sue Parkinson Home: 01386 858375 / WR12 7DJ / sue-parkinson.com

Managing Editor & Director Eleanor Chadwick eleanor@guidemedia.co.uk With many thanks to Preview’s Advisory Panel

The Cotswolds Art & Antique Dealers’ Association Fair at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock

Another of our favourite sources for home accessories is MASH (‘Modern Accessories, Stylish Home’) in Chipping Norton, which has a particularly good selection of retro and country designs. New season stock is now in store. Mash Lifestyle: 01608 644669 / OX7 5AD / mashlifestyle.com

This year, British textile company James Hare celebrates its 150th anniversary and it has introduced a new fabrics collection to mark the occasion. One of the most luxurious of these designs is Diamond Bouquet, pictured here, which was inspired by a diamond brooch given by the company’s founder to his wife at the start of the 20th century. It features sprays of flowers picked out in lavish metallic embroidery on a satin ground.

Three colourways are available, RRP £150 per metre. For local stockist details, visit james-hare.com

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APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

Guide Media Ltd. Registered office: 2 Westgate, Shipton-under-Wychwood, Oxfordshire OX7 6DG tel: 01993 833239 www.guidemedia.co.uk A cloud pruned hedge

GARDEN DESIGN TIPS

Any comments should be directed to the publisher in writing to the above address.

10 Improvements to Your Garden Gardens are an extension of our living space but they often end up the poor relation of houses when it comes to money spent on improvements. However, thoughtful

landscaping canTURNING improve your enjoyment of your home as well as luring potential style feature…

HEADS buyers if you decide to move. Indeed, research has shown that a well kept and well designed outdoor space can add 10–15% to a property’s sale price. Here, professional garden designer Andrew Jordan suggests ten ways to give your garden some extra wow factor…

Cotswold Preview is designed to celebrate the best of what’s on and what’s new across the Cotswolds.

We aim to inform and inspire our readers through the highest standards of journalism and design and to work closely with our advertisers to maximise their opportunity for response.

heads

turning 128

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APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

As the saying goes, hair is your crowning glory.

Or at least it should be!

If you are considering refreshing your style this spring, here are some useful tips from hair expert Tabitha James Kraan, founder of TJK Organic Hairdressing in Stow-on-the-Wold…

© All rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced without the written permission of Guide Media. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any material supplied for publication or to edit such material prior to publication. All material is sent at the owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, Guide Media will not accept liability for loss or damage. The opinions expressed in this publication are the views of the individual authors. Guide Media suggests that further guidance is taken before acting on any information given and, in particular, strongly advises viewing any property prior to financial decisions. Cotswold Preview ISSN:2044 9267 Please recycle this magazine when you have finished with it.

by Andrew Jordan

Tabitha James Kraan styling a model

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exploring stow-on-the-wold light bites: the cotswold shortlist express beauty treatments henrietta spencer-churchill on georgian style JULY– AUGUST 13 Cotswold preview

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS DIARY

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EVENTS DIARY

what’s on

What’s on diary 12 What’s on features 45 Exhibition in the spotlight 56 What’s on listings 60 Highlighted charity event 88 Cotswold preview APRIL 15

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Exhibitions & Auctions

The Albion Gallery

Campden Gallery

Unearthed: Riches of the Romans and Anglo-Saxons at Banbury Museum Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Saving Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath 0º00 Navigation at The Edge Building, University of Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Bath: Buildings in Landscape at Museum of Bath Architecture, Bath Bath Open Studios at RUH (Royal United Hospital), Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Francis Hamel exhibition at Brian Sinfield Gallery, Burford Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Canaletto: Celebrating Britain at Compton Verney Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth Martha Ford, Charlotte Miller & Louise Sanders exhibitions at Prema, Uley

Performing Arts Twelve Angry Men at Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Harvest at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Satin ’n’ Steel at Everyman Studio Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm The History Boys at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7pm The Jew of Malta at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

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Events Bath Comedy Festival 2015 at venues across the city The Best of Me film showing at Barnsley House Cinema, Barnsley Family Cooking course at The Bertinet Kitchen, Bath Theatre tour at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham Family woodland walk at Buscot and Coleshill Estates Spring flowers at Lacock Abbey Guided Walk at Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury

APRIL

wednesday

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*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Francis Hamel exhibition at Brian Sinfield Gallery, Burford Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Canaletto: Celebrating Britain at Compton Verney A Dog a Day at Pound Arts, Corsham 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Present Tense at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth Martha Ford, Charlotte Miller & Louise Sanders exhibitions at Prema, Uley

The John Davies Gallery

Herschel Museum of Astronomy

Performing Arts Twelve Angry Men at Theatre Royal, Bath, 8pm The Harvest at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Richard Herring: Lord of the Dance Settee at Komedia, Bath, 8pm The Neil Diamond Story at Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:3pm Satin ’n’ Steel at Everyman Studio Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm The History Boys at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm And 5, 6, 7, 8! at The Playhouse, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Captain Flinn & The Pirate Dinosaurs at Royal Spa Centre & Town Hall, 2:30pm Royal Academy of Music: Bach & Messaien at Malmesbury Abbey, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Jew of Malta at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events Bath Comedy Festival 2015 at venues across the city Wild film showing at The Theatre, Chipping Norton Spring flowers at Lacock Abbey

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APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

thursday

13

Exhibitions & Auctions

Theatre Royal, Bath

The Stour Gallery

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Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Francis Hamel exhibition at Brian Sinfield Gallery, Burford Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Canaletto: Celebrating Britain at Compton Verney A Dog a Day at Pound Arts, Corsham 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Present Tense at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth Martha Ford, Charlotte Miller & Louise Sanders exhibitions at Prema, Uley Keeping up Appearances at Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

Performing Arts Twelve Angry Men at Theatre Royal, Bath, 8pm The Harvest at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm The History Boys at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm And 5, 6, 7, 8! at The Playhouse, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Voodoo Vegas live music at The Assembly, Leamington Spa, 7pm Devotional concert: Allegri & Bach at Malmesbury Abbey, 6:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Jew of Malta at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm The Trilogy at The Dream Factory, Warwick, 3pm

Events Craft Fair at National Herb Centre, near Banbury Bath Comedy Festival 2015 at venues across the city Easter Adventure Quest at Kenilworth Castle Guided Walk at Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury

APRIL friday

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*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Unearthed: Riches of the Romans and Anglo-Saxons at Banbury Museum Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Saving Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Barry Sykes: Sociable Hermit at The Edge Building, University of Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Francis Hamel exhibition at Brian Sinfield Gallery, Burford Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth Martha Ford, Charlotte Miller & Louise Sanders exhibitions at Prema, Uley

Little Buckland Gallery

Performing Arts Twelve Angry Men at Theatre Royal, Bath, 8pm The Harvest at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Macbeth at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 7:30pm Martha Reeves and the Vandellas at Cheltenham Town Hall, 7:30pm The History Boys at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Charlie and Lola at Parabola Arts Centre, Cheltenham, 4:30pm The Rat Pack live music at The Theatre, Chipping Norton, 7:45pm And 5, 6, 7, 8! at The Playhouse, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Four Parts Guitar live music at The Assembly, Leamington Spa, 7pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Jew of Malta at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm The Ship Band at The Subscription Rooms, Stroud, 8pm The Trilogy at The Dream Factory, Warwick, 3pm

Events Craft Fair at National Herb Centre, near Banbury Bath Comedy Festival 2015 at venues across the city Easter Adventure Quest at Kenilworth Castle Hot Air ballooning over Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury

Court Barn

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APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

saturday

15

Exhibitions & Auctions

Herschel Museum of Astronomy

Campden Gallery

Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Saving Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Beckford’s Biographers at Beckford’s Tower, Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Bath: Buildings in Landscape at Museum of Bath Architecture, Bath Bath Open Studios at RUH (Royal United Hospital), Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Canaletto: Celebrating Britain at Compton Verney 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth Martha Ford, Charlotte Miller & Louise Sanders exhibitions at Prema, Uley Keeping up Appearances at Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

Performing Arts Macbeth at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 7:30pm Charlie and Lola at Parabola Arts Centre, Cheltenham, 1:30pm Dinosaur Zoo at Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, 2pm

Events

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Craft Fair at National Herb Centre, near Banbury Bath Comedy Festival 2015 at venues across the city Tulips at The Courts Garden, Bradford-on-Avon Shaun the Sheep film showing at Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry Hatter’s Tea Party at Gloucester Guildhall Easter Adventure Quest at Kenilworth Castle Spring flowers at Lacock Abbey Guided Walk at Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury

APRIL sunday

16

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Saving Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Barry Sykes: Sociable Hermit at The Edge Building, University of Bath Beckford’s Biographers at Beckford’s Tower, Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Bath: Buildings in Landscape at Museum of Bath Architecture, Bath Bath Open Studios at RUH (Royal United Hospital), Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester A Dog a Day at Pound Arts, Corsham Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Martha Ford, Charlotte Miller & Louise Sanders exhibitions at Prema, Uley

The John Davies Gallery

Pound Arts

Performing Arts The Harvest at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm My Friend Mole at The Egg, Theatre Royal, Bath, 11:30am Macbeth at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 7:30pm Journey of a Turtle at Cheltenham Town Hall, 2:30pm Charlie and Lola at Parabola Arts Centre, Cheltenham, 11am Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Jew of Malta at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events Craft Fair at National Herb Centre, near Banbury Bath Comedy Festival 2015 at venues across the city Tulips at The Courts Garden, Bradford-on-Avon Easter Adventure Quest at Kenilworth Castle Spring Craft Fayre at Stoneleigh Abbey, Kenilworth Spring flowers at Lacock Abbey Seasonal Foraging cookery course at Thyme at Southrop Manor Guided Walk at Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury

6

APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

monday

17

Exhibitions & Auctions

The John Davies Gallery

The Wilson

Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Barry Sykes: Sociable Hermit at The Edge Building, University of Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Canaletto: Celebrating Britain at Compton Verney A Dog a Day at Pound Arts, Corsham 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth Martha Ford, Charlotte Miller & Louise Sanders exhibitions at Prema, Uley

Performing Arts A Mad World My Masters at Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Harvest at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Macbeth at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 7:30pm Lunchtime recital at Cheltenham Town Hall, 1:05pm Gloucester Gang Show 2015 at Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:15pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Snail and The Whale at Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, 4:30pm

7

Events Tulips at The Courts Garden, Bradford-on-Avon Artist’s talk at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Testament of Youth film showing at The Theatre, Chipping Norton Spring flowers at Lacock Abbey Blood Guts and Gore talk at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Madam Renard’s Mini-Fringe Festival at The Phoenix Theatre, Swindon

APRIL

tuesday

18

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Barry Sykes: Sociable Hermit at The Edge Building, University of Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Present Tense at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth Martha Ford, Charlotte Miller & Louise Sanders exhibitions at Prema, Uley Keeping up Appearances at Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

The Albion Gallery

Campden Gallery

Performing Arts A Mad World My Masters at Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Harvest at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Tweedy’s House of Fun at Cheltenham Town Hall, 2:30pm Gloucester Gang Show 2015 at Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:15pm ETO: The Siege of Calais at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Stacey Kent live music at Royal Spa Centre & Town Hall, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm

Events Art and Conversation lunch with Nick Nelson at Barnsley House Making Space for Islam talk at Holburne Museum, Bath Fifty Shades of Grey film showing at The Theatre, Chipping Norton Archaeological Illustration workshop at Corinium Museum, Cirencester A Day in the Woods – Hedgerow Harvest at Stourhead, near Mere Guided Walk at Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury

8

APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

wednesday

19

Exhibitions & Auctions

Little Buckland Gallery

Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Present Tense at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth Martha Ford, Charlotte Miller & Louise Sanders exhibitions at Prema, Uley Keeping up Appearances at Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

Performing Arts Court Barn

9

A Mad World My Masters at Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Harvest at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Barb Jungr live music at Cheltenham Town Hall, 8pm Gloucester Gang Show 2015 at Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:15pm ETO: Wild Man of West Indies at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Arms & The Man at The Playhouse, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Hamlet! at The Bear Pit, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Showstoppers at Royal Spa Centre & Town Hall, Leamington Spa, 2:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm A Black Country Night Out at Stratford ArtsHouse, 7:30pm

Events The Iron Necklace: Giles Waterfield talk at Holburne Museum, Bath Into the Woods film showing at The Theatre, Chipping Norton Julius Zebra: Gary Northfield book signing at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Martin Hughes-Games talk at Royal Spa Centre & Town Hall Blood Guts and Gore talk at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon

APRIL

thursday

20

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Barry Sykes: Sociable Hermit at The Edge Building, University of Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Present Tense at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth Martha Ford, Charlotte Miller & Louise Sanders exhibitions at Prema, Uley Keeping up Appearances at Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

Performing Arts Up in the Attic at The Egg, Theatre Royal, Bath, 11:30am The Harvest at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Rock ’n’ Roll Paradise at Cheltenham Town Hall, 7:30pm A Feast of Stories at Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm ETO: La Bohème at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Arms & The Man at The Playhouse, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Jay Rayner: My Dining Hell at Pound Arts, Corsham, 7:30pm Hamlet! at The Bear Pit, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Jan Vaisey & Ian Harvey live music at The Subscription Rooms, Stroud, 8:15pm

Events Spring wild flower walk at Dyrham Park, near Bath An evening with Sunny Ormonde at Everyman Studio Theatre, Cheltenham The Second Best Marigold Hotel film showing at The Theatre, Chipping Norton

The John Davies Gallery

Theatre Royal, Bath

10 APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

friday

21

Exhibitions & Auctions

Campden Gallery

Octavia’s Bookshop

11

Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Barry Sykes: Sociable Hermit at The Edge Building, University of Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Present Tense at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth Martha Ford, Charlotte Miller & Louise Sanders exhibitions at Prema, Uley

Performing Arts A Mad World My Masters at Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Harvest at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Fred’s House live music at Chapel Arts, Centre, Bath, 7:30pm Gloucester Gang Show 2015 at Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:15pm ETO: La Bohème at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Arms & The Man at The Playhouse, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Royal Marines Association Concert Band at Gloucester Cathedral, 7pm Hamlet! at The Bear Pit, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events Departure Points writing workshop at Holburne Museum, Bath Antique & Collectables Valuation Day at Burford Garden Company Watercolour workshop at The Wilson, Cheltenham Portrait Masterclass with Jacob Sutton at Wetpaint Gallery, Cirencester Christine Roberts & Katherine Kirkland at Octavia’s Bookshop, Cirencester

APRIL

saturday

22

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Bath: Buildings in Landscape at Museum of Bath Architecture, Bath Bath Open Studios at RUH (Royal United Hospital), Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Canaletto: Celebrating Britain at Compton Verney 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth Martha Ford, Charlotte Miller & Louise Sanders exhibitions at Prema, Uley

John Noott Galleries at Broadway Modern

Victoria Art Gallery

Performing Arts Royal Flush at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 8pm Tree Fu Tom at Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, 3:30pm

Events Tulips in Bloom! at Upton House, Banbury Meet the Artist talk and workshop at Holburne Museum, Bath Tulips at The Courts Garden, Bradford-on-Avon Prescott Bike Festival at Prescott Hill, near Cheltenham Open afternoon at Coleshill Mill Still Alice film showing at Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry Spring flowers at Lacock Abbey Vintage Tea Shop charity event at Stourhead, near Mere Madam Renard’s Mini-Fringe Festival at The Town Hall, Swindon Guided Walk at Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury Hands on Clay workshop at Waterperry Gardens, near Wheatley

12 APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

sunday

23

Exhibitions & Auctions

Little Buckland Gallery

The Wilson

Saving Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Barry Sykes: Sociable Hermit at The Edge Building, University of Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Bath: Buildings in Landscape at Museum of Bath Architecture, Bath Bath Open Studios at RUH (Royal United Hospital), Bath Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge

Performing Arts And Then There Were None at Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Carly Smallman live music at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 8pm Blood Brothers at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Sex and Suburbia at Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, 7:30pm

Events

13

Tulips in Bloom! at Upton House, Banbury Tulips at The Courts Garden, Bradford-on-Avon Lemur Feeding talk at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Acrylics and Mixed Media workshop at New Brewery Arts, Cirenceseter Still Alice film showing at Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry Spring park walk at Dyrham Park, near Bath Spring flowers at Lacock Abbey Crane talk at WWT Slimbridge Stratford Town Walk starts at riverside fountain opposite RSC Theatre Madam Renard’s Mini-Fringe Festival at The Victoria, Swindon Beginners’ Photography workshop at Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury

APRIL

monday

24

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Barry Sykes: Sociable Hermit at The Edge Building, University of Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth

The John Davies Gallery

Campden Gallery

Performing Arts And Then There Were None at Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Tenant of Wildfell Hall at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 8pm Lunchtime recital at Cheltenham Town Hall, 1:05pm Blood Brothers at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Toyah and The Humans live music at Gloucester Guildhall, 7:30pm The Pajama Game at Royal Spa Centre & Town Hall, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm House of Ghosts at Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, 7:30pm

Events Tulips in Bloom! at Upton House, near Banbury Gardens Open Day at Barnsley House, Barnsley Tulips at The Courts Garden, Bradford-on-Avon Acrylics and Mixed Media workshop at New Brewery Arts, Cirenceseter Grow Your Own Cut Flowers workshop at Hidcote Manor Spring flowers at Lacock Abbey Madam Renard’s Mini-Fringe Festival at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

14 APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

tuesday

25

Exhibitions & Auctions

John Noott Galleries at Broadway Modern

Campden Gallery

Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Barry Sykes: Sociable Hermit at The Edge Building, University of Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Present Tense at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts The Stour Gallery

15

And Then There Were None at Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Happiness at The Edge Building, University of Bath, 7:30pm Milton Jones live comedy at Cheltenham Town Hall, 7:30pm Blood Brothers at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Duke Special live music at Gloucester Guildhall, 7:30pm The Pajama Game at Royal Spa Centre & Town Hall, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Twitchett’s Live at The Subscription Rooms, Stroud, 7:30pm Piano Recital at Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, 1:05pm Gary Delaney live comedy at Swindon Arts Centre, 8pm

Events Tulips in Bloom! at Upton House, near Banbury If I Stay film showing at Barnsley House Cinema, Barnsley Mixed Media Fishing Boats workshop at New Brewery Arts, Cirenceseter Fish – an Introduction cookery course at Thyme at Southrop Manor Guided Walk at Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury Home Barista: Espresso course at Ue Coffee Roasters, Witney

APRIL

wednesday

26

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Barry Sykes: Sociable Hermit at The Edge Building, University of Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham The Russian Show at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts

CADA Fair

Little Buckland Gallery

And Then There Were None at Theatre Royal, Bath, 8pm Outside Mullingar at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Steve Dan Mills live music at Chapel Arts Centre, Bath, 7:30pm The Hard Problem NT screening at Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, 7pm Blood Brothers at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Carousel at The Theatre, Chipping Norton, 7:30pm The Hard Problem, NT live screening at Gloucester Guildhall, 6:45pm The Pajama Game at Royal Spa Centre & Town Hall, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Your Musical Memories at The Subscription Rooms, Stroud, 2:30pm

Events Advanced Retreating talk at The Edge Building, University of Bath Wedding Dresses 1775–2014 talk at American Museum in Britain, Bath Artist’s talk at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Your status is ‘Blessed’ talk with Lindsey Taylor at Cheltenham Town Hall What We Did on Our Holiday film showing at Whatley Manor, Malmesbury CADA Fair at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock

16 APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

thursday

27

Exhibitions & Auctions Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Russian Evolution 2015 at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth

CADA Fair

Performing Arts

The Paragon Gallery

17

And Then There Were None at Theatre Royal, Bath, 8pm Outside Mullingar at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Benjamin Folke Thomas Band at Chapel Arts Centre, Bath, 7:30pm Simon & Garfunkel at Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Orchestra of the Swan at Cheltenham Town Hall, 7:30pm Carousel at The Theatre, Chipping Norton, 7:30pm Blood Brothers at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Ladies Godiva at The Playhouse, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Kevin Bridges live comedy at Sundial Theatre, Cirencester, 8pm Shaun of the Dead LIVE at Gloucester Guildhall, 7:30pm The Pajama Game at Royal Spa Centre & Town Hall, 7:30pm Frank: Just another Brother at The Bear Pit, Stratford-upon-Avon, 8pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events To Kill a Songbird murder mystery evening at Bampton Village Hall Figures in Collage workshop at New Brewery Arts, Cirenceseter BBC Gardens Illustrated Spring Festival at Malmesbury Abbey Dare to Dabble: Batik workshop at Nature in Art, Twigworth CADA Fair at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock Wild garlic season at Newark Park, Wotton-under-Edge The annual Wootton Ted-style talk at Wootton Village Hall

APRIL friday

28

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Russian Evolution 2015 at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Present Tense at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts

The Wilson

Campden Gallery

Declan Zapala live music at The Acoustic Café, Aston Pottery, 7:15pm And Then There Were None at Theatre Royal, Bath, 8pm Outside Mullingar at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Oye Santana at Chapel Arts Centre, Bath, 7:30pm Blood Brothers at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Carousel at The Theatre, Chipping Norton, 7:30pm Shaun of the Dead LIVE at Gloucester Guildhall, 7:30pm Hazel O’Connor live music at Sundial Theatre, Cirencester, 7:30pm Frank: Just Another Brother at The Bear Pit, Stratford-upon-Avon, 8pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events Daffodil Society National Show 2015 at Coughton Court, Alcester To Kill a Songbird murder mystery evening at Bampton Village Hall Night time Glow in the Park run in Bath city centre Dry Stone Walling course at Dyrham Park, near Bath BBC Gardens Illustrated Spring Festival at Malmesbury Abbey Painting with Chromacolour course at Nature in Art, Twigworth Willow Garden Structures workshop at Waterperry Gardens, Wheatley CADA Fair at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock

18 APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

saturday

29

Exhibitions & Auctions

Campden Gallery

Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Barry Sykes: Sociable Hermit at The Edge Building, University of Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Nicola Slattery: Human Nature at the Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Art Forms in Nature and Fabric of Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts The Albion Gallery

Meet the Real Maggie Thatcher at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 8pm Mariachi Tequila live music at American Museum in Britain, Bath, 2pm Maddy Prior live music at Tithe Barn, Bishop’s Cleeve, 7:45pm The Forget-Me-Not Concert at Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm The Hard Problem screening at The Theatre, Chipping Norton, 7:45pm Renaissance live music at The Assembly, Leamington Spa, 7pm Ivan the Terrible live screening at Royal Spa Centre & Town Hall, 4pm Ray Quinn live music at Stratford ArtsHouse, 7:30pm Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde at The Subscription Rooms, Stroud, 7:30pm Mr Love & Justice and Friends live music at Swindon Library, 3:15pm

Events

19

Daffodil Society National Show 2015 at Coughton Court, Alcester Tulips in Bloom! at Upton House, near Banbury Artist’s talk at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Creating Perfect Sugar Roses workshop at Farncombe Estate, Broadway Fritillary Sunday in Ducklington Dry Stone Walling course at Dyrham Park, near Bath Fixtures at Stratford Racecourse Painting with Chromacolour course at Nature in Art, Twigworth Stained Glass Applique workshop at Waterperry Gardens, near Wheatley CADA Fair at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock

APRIL sunday

30

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Bath: Buildings in Landscape at Museum of Bath Architecture, Bath Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath Toro! at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Russian Evolution 2015 at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Infestation at Pound Arts, Corsham 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge Nicola Slattery: Human Nature at the Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon

Gallery Pangolin

Performing Arts Dear Lupin at Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Outside Mullingar at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Sophia Walker: Can't Care, Won't Care at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 8pm Rebecca at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Coull Quartet at Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, 7:15pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7pm

Fosse Gallery

Events Tulips in Bloom! at Upton House, near Banbury Lunch with Margie Hoffnung at Barnsley House, Barnsley Going Modern and Being British talk at Holburne Museum, Bath Wine Tasting – More Prizewinning Wines at Chapel Arts Centre, Bath The Medici and their Artists talk at Blockley Decorative and Fine Art Society Tulips at The Courts Garden, Bradford-on-Avon Lemur Feeding talk at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Still Alice film showing at The Theatre, Chipping Norton X + Y film showing at Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry Spring park walk at Dyrham Park, near Bath Spring flowers at Lacock Abbey Stratford Town Walk starts at riverside fountain opposite RSC Theatre

20 APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

monday

31

Exhibitions & Auctions

Fosse Gallery

Nature in Art

Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Russian Evolution 2015 at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Toro! at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Enchanted by Spring at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Canaletto: Celebrating Britain at Compton Verney Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Nicola Slattery: Human Nature at the Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Nocturnal Encounters at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts Dear Lupin at Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Outside Mullingar at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm The Croutons live music at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 8pm Lunchtime recital at Cheltenham Town Hall, 1:05pm Rebecca at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Rock ’n’ Roll Politics at The Theatre, Chipping Norton, 7:45pm Derek Ryan live music at Sundial Theatre, Cirencester, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Orchestra of the Swan at Stratford ArtsHouse, 7:30pm

Events

21

Tulips in Bloom! at Upton House, near Banbury Tulips at The Courts Garden, Bradford-on-Avon Second World War walk at Buscott and Coleshill Estates Attila Marcel film showing at Pound Arts, Corsham Spring flowers at Lacock Abbey Spring Styling Floristry course at Rococo Gardens, Painswick Life Drawing drop-in workshop at Stroud Valley Artspace, Stroud Guided Walk at Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury Theology Forum at Tewkesbury Abbey

APRIL

tuesday

32

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Russian Evolution 2015 at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Toro! at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Emerging British Artists at Chorley’s, Prinknash Abbey Park, Cranham 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge Nicola Slattery: Human Nature at the Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Nocturnal Encounters at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Chorley’s

Performing Arts Dear Lupin at Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Outside Mullingar at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7pm Safe at The Edge Building, University of Bath, 7:30pm Lee Nelson live comedy at Cheltenham Town Hall, 7:30pm Hugless Douglas at Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, 10:30am A Strange Wild Song at The Theatre, Chipping Norton, 7:45pm Rebecca at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm The George Gershwin Songbook at Everyman Studio Theatre, 7:45pm The Real Thing at Loft Theatre, Leamington Spa, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Enchanted April at Swindon Arts Centre, 7:30pm There Goes The Bride at Arc Theatre, Trowbridge, 7:30pm

Events Jigsaw Festival 2015 charity event at Coughton Court, Alcester Speech and Silence, Word and Image talk at The Wilson, Cheltenham Cheltenham Poetry Festival at venues across the town Seasonal Spanish cookery course at Thyme at Southrop Manor Home Barista: Filter Coffee course at Ue Coffee Roasters, Witney

The Paragon Gallery

22 APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

wednesday

33

Exhibitions & Auctions Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Russian Evolution 2015 at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Toro! at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Emerging British Artists at Chorley’s, Prinknash Abbey Park, Cranham 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Nicola Slattery: Human Nature at the Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Nocturnal Encounters at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Chorley’s

Performing Arts

Gallery Pangolin

23

Dear Lupin at Theatre Royal, Bath, 8pm Outside Mullingar at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm I Am Kloot live music at Komedia, Bath, 7pm Parnassius Piano Duo recital at Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham, 8pm Rebecca at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm The George Gershwin Songbook at Everyman Studio Theatre, 7:45pm Music Lab: Open Mic Night at Gloucester Guildhall, 7:30pm The Real Thing at Loft Theatre, Leamington Spa, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Jew of Malta at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm 4 Parts Guitar live music at The Subscription Rooms, Stroud, 8pm There Goes The Bride at Arc Theatre, Trowbridge, 7:30pm As You Like It at Playbox Theatre, Warwick, 7:30pm

Events Jigsaw Festival 2015 charity event at Coughton Court, Alcester Cheltenham Poetry Festival at venues across the town Chipping Norton Literary Festival at venues across the town Flora and Fauna: Wildflower Wonders workshop at Lydiard Park, Swindon Shakespeare’s Birthday celebrations in Stratford-upon-Avon Spring Grand Sale at Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe

APRIL

tursday

34

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Toro! at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Russian Evolution 2015 at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Emerging British Artists at Chorley’s, Prinknash Abbey Park, Cranham 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Nicola Slattery: Human Nature at the Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Nocturnal Encounters at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Fosse Gallery

Performing Arts Dear Lupin at Theatre Royal, Bath, 8pm Outside Mullingar at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Snake Davis Band live music at Chapel Arts Centre, Bath, 7:30pm Port Isaac’s Fisherman’s Friends at Cheltenham Town Hall, 7:30pm Rebecca at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm The George Gershwin Songbook at Everyman Studio Theatre, 7:45pm Jay Rayner live comedy at Sundial Theatre, Cirencester, 8pm The Real Thing at Loft Theatre, Leamington Spa, 7:30pm The Best of The Eagles at Royal Spa Centre & Town Hall, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Jew of Malta at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Stroud Out Loud at The Subscription Rooms, Stroud, 7:30pm There Goes The Bride at Arc Theatre, Trowbridge, 7:30pm Macbeth at Playbox Theatre, Warwick, 7:30pm

Campden Gallery

Events Jigsaw Festival 2015 charity event at Coughton Court, Alcester Cheltenham Poetry Festival at venues across the town Dominic Riley talk at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Chipping Norton Literary Festival at venues across the town Antique & General auction at Moore Allen Cirencester Saleroom Wild Walks at Stourhead, near Mere Shakespeare’s Birthday celebrations in Stratford-upon-Avon Spring Grand Sale at Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe

24 APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

friday

35

Exhibitions & Auctions

Fosse Gallery

Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Toro! at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Russian Evolution 2015 at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Food For Thought at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Infestation at Pound Arts, Corsham Emerging British Artists at Chorley’s, Prinknash Abbey Park, Cranham Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Nicola Slattery: Human Nature at the Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon

Performing Arts Dear Lupin at Theatre Royal, Bath, 8pm Outside Mullingar at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Love, Love, Love at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 7:30pm The Superskas live music at Chapel Arts Centre, Bath, 7:30pm Rebecca at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm A Chorus of Disapproval at The Playhouse, Cheltenham, 7:45pm The Real Thing at Loft Theatre, Leamington Spa, 7:30pm Matt Forde live comedy at Royal Spa Centre & Town Hall, 8pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Jew of Malta at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Francesca Martinez at Stratford ArtsHouse, 4:45pm There Goes The Bride at Arc Theatre, Trowbridge, 7:30pm

The Paragon Gallery

Events

25

Cheltenham Poetry Festival at venues across the town Chipping Norton Literary Festival at venues across the town Lottie Prentice book signing at Octavia’s Bookshop, Cirencester The Imitation Game film showing at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Pottery Workshops at Whichford Pottery, near Shipston-on-Stour Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival at venues across the town Shakespeare’s Birthday celebrations in Stratford-upon-Avon Intorudtion to Bee Keeping workshop at Waterperry Gardens, near Wheatley Spring Grand Sale at Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe

APRIL

Saturday

36

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Beckford’s Biographers at Beckford’s Tower, Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Bath: Buildings in Landscape at Museum of Bath Architecture, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden Camera and Clay at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Food For Thought at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Emerging British Artists at Chorley’s, Prinknash Abbey Park, Cranham 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Nocturnal Encounters at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival

Performing Arts Love, Love, Love at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 7:30pm Ken Nicol live music at Chapel Arts Centre, Bath, 7:30pm The Commodores live music at Cheltenham Town Hall, 7:30pm A Chorus of Disapproval at The Playhouse, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Uriah Heep live music at The Assembly, Leamington Spa, 7pm The Battle of The Bands at Royal Spa Centre & Town Hall, 7:30pm The Jew of Malta at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7pm

The Albion Gallery

Events Wild Garlic Fortnight at Prior Park, Bath Cheltenham Poetry Festival at venues across the town Chipping Norton Literary Festival at venues across the town St George’s Weekend at Kenilworth Castle Shakespeare’s Marathon in Stratford-upon-Avon town centre Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival at venues across the town Shakespeare’s Birthday celebrations in Stratford-upon-Avon Guided Walk at Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury Spring Grand Sale at Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe

26 APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

sunday

37

Exhibitions & Auctions

Gallery Pangolin

Bring me Laughter at Banbury Museum Mark Boulos: Mythology at The Edge Building, University of Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Bath: Buildings in Landscape at Museum of Bath Architecture, Bath Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath Toro! at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Russian Evolution 2015 at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Platinum: Master Prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham Camera and Clay at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Food For Thought at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Nicola Slattery: Human Nature at the Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Timeless at Lansdown Gallery, Stroud

Performing Arts Corinium Museum

Outside Mullingar at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Love, Love, Love at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 7:30pm Paul Merton live comedy at Cheltenham Town Hall, 7:30pm To Kill a Mocking Bird at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm A Chorus of Disapproval at The Playhouse, Cheltenham, 7:45pm The Fureys live music at The Theatre, Chipping Norton, 7:45pm The Real Thing at Loft Theatre, Leamington Spa, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events

27

Wild Garlic Fortnight at Prior Park, Bath Tulips at The Courts Garden, Bradford-on-Avon Cheltenham Poetry Festival at venues across the town Representations of Birds in the Corinium Museum afternoon talk, Cirencester Woman in Gold film showing at Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry Spring park walk at Dyrham Park, near Bath St George’s Weekend at Kenilworth Castle Spring flowers at Lacock Abbey Otter talk at WWT Slimbridge Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival at venues across the town Wotton-under-Edge Arts Festival

APRIL

monday

38

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Bring me Laughter at Banbury Museum Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Mark Boulos: Mythology at The Edge Building, University of Bath Toro! at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Russian Evolution 2015 at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Food For Thought at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester Canaletto: Celebrating Britain at Compton Verney Infestation at Pound Arts, Corsham 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge Nicola Slattery: Human Nature at the Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold Timeless at Lansdown Gallery, Stroud Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Nocturnal Encounters at Nature in Art, Twigworth

The Paragon Gallery

Everyman Theatre

Performing Arts Outside Mullingar at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Love, Love, Love at Rondo Theatre, Bath, 7:30pm Lunchtime recital at Cheltenham Town Hall, 1:05pm To Kill a Mocking Bird at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm A Chorus of Disapproval at The Playhouse, Cheltenham, 7:45pm The Real Thing at Loft Theatre, Leamington Spa, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Fosse Gallery

Events Wild Garlic Fortnight at Prior Park, Bath Nicholas Rena In Conversation at Holburne Museum, Bath Tulips at The Courts Garden, Bradford-on-Avon Cheltenham Poetry Festival at venues across the town Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour at Cheltenham Town Hall Suite Française film showing at The Theatre, Chipping Norton Spring flowers at Lacock Abbey Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival at venues across the town Life Drawing drop-in workshop at Stroud Valley Artspace, Stroud Wotton-under-Edge Arts Festival

28 APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

tuesday

39

Exhibitions & Auctions

The Albion Gallery

Bring me Laughter at Banbury Museum Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Mark Boulos: Mythology at The Edge Building, University of Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum, Bath Toro! at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Russian Evolution 2015 at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Food For Thought at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Infestation at Pound Arts, Corsham 21 Years, 21 Icons at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour Art from the Forest of Dean at WWT Slimbridge Nicola Slattery: Human Nature at the Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Timeless at Lansdown Gallery, Stroud Echoes in Enamel at Museum in the Park, Stroud Nocturnal Encounters at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts The Paragon Gallery

29

Outside Mullingar at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm Howlers at the Hall comedy club at Cheltenham Town Hall, 8:30pm To Kill a Mocking Bird at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm A Chorus of Disapproval at The Playhouse, Cheltenham, 7:45pm The Real Thing at Loft Theatre, Leamington Spa, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Jew of Malta at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Rich Hall live comedy at Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, 8pm Macbeth at Playbox Theatre, Warwick, 7:30pm

Events Wild Garlic Fortnight at Prior Park, Bath Cheltenham Poetry Festival at venues across the town Cheltenham Jazz Festival at venues across the town Suite Française film showing at The Theatre, Chipping Norton Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival at venues across the town Guided Walk at Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury Wotton-under-Edge Arts Festival

APRIL

wednesday

40

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON Diary Exhibitions & Auctions Bring me Laughter at Banbury Museum Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Mark Boulos: Mythology at The Edge Building, University of Bath Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath Russian Evolution 2015 at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham Still Small Voice at The Wilson, Cheltenham Toro! at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Camera and Clay at The Gallery @ The Guild, Chipping Campden Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton Food For Thought at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Spring Exhibition at Wold Galleries, Moreton-in-Marsh Nicola Slattery: Human Nature at the Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Timeless at Lansdown Gallery, Stroud Nocturnal Encounters at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Nature in Art

Performing Arts Outside Mullingar at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:45pm This Moment Now at The Edge Building, University of Bath, 7:30pm Celebrating Frank Brown concert at Holburne Museum, Bath, 7pm A Tribute to Woody Guthrie at American Museum in Britain, Bath, 7:30pm The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at Cheltenham Town Hall, 7:30pm Don Q at The Theatre, Chipping Norton, 7:45pm A View from the Bridge NT screening at Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, 7pm To Kill a Mocking Bird at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm A Chorus of Disapproval at The Playhouse, Cheltenham, 7:45pm The Real Thing at Loft Theatre, Leamington Spa, 7:30pm Death of a Salesman at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Jew of Malta at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Safe at Arc Theatre, Trowbridge, 7:30pm

Corinium Museum

Events Wild Garlic Fortnight at Prior Park, Bath Cheltenham Poetry Festival at venues across the town Cheltenham Jazz Festival at venues across the town John Smith talk The Roman Military at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Eat To Be Healthy cookery course at Daylesford Organic, Kingham Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival at venues across the town Hospitality Action: Highgrove Garden tour & lunch at Calcot Manor, Tetbury Wotton-under-Edge Arts Festival

30 APRIL

*For contact details please see pages 41–43. The full What’s On Listings start on page 60.

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

thursday

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CONTACT DETAILS A handy reference guide to the galleries, museums, National Trust properties, theatres, concert halls, hotels, visitor attractions and all other Cotswold venues mentioned in our diary pages…

American Museum in Britain: 01225 460503 / BA2 7BD / americanmuseum.org Anne Hathaway’s Cottage: 01789 201806 / CV37 6QW / shakespeare.org.uk Arc Theatre: 0845 299 0476 / BA14 0ES / arctheatre.org.uk The Assembly, Leamington Spa: 0844 854 1358 / CV31 3NF / leamingtonassembly.com Avebury Manor and Garden: 01672 539153 / SN8 1RF / nationaltrust.org.uk/avebury Bacon Theatre: 01242 258002 / GL51 6HE / bacontheatre.co.uk Bath Abbey: 01225 422462 / BA1 1LT / bathabbey.org Bath Assembly Rooms: 01225 477173 / BA1 2QH / nationaltrust.org.uk/bath-assembly-rooms Bath Racecourse: 01225 424609 / BA1 9BU / bath-racecourse.co.uk Banbury Museum: 01295 753752 / OX16 2PQ / cherwell.gov.uk/museum Bampton Classical Opera: 01993 851876 / bamptonopera.org

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Barnsley House: 01285 740000 / GL7 5EE / barnsleyhouse.com Barnsley Herb Garden: 07773 687493 / GL7 5EE / herbsforhealing.net Bath Guildhall: 01225 461593 / BA2 4AW Batsford Arboretum: 01386 701441 / GL56 9AB / batsarb.co.uk Beckford’s Tower: 01225 460705 / BA1 2LR / beckfordstower.org.uk The Bertinet Kitchen: 01225 445531 / BA1 2QR / thebertinetkitchen.com Blockley Decorative and Fine Art Society: GL56 9BY / blockleydfas.org Bridge House Theatre (BHT): 01926 776438 / CV34 6PP / bridgehousetheatre.co.uk Buckland Manor: 01386 852626 / WR12 7LY / bucklandmanor.co.uk Building of Bath Collection: 01225 333895 / BA1 5NA / buildingofbathcollection.org.uk Buscot Estate: 01793 762209 / nationaltrust.org.uk Cotswold Art and Antique Dealers’ Association: 07831 850544 / cotswolds-antiques-art.com

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S on diary: Contact Details

Calcot Manor: 01666 890391 / GL8 8YJ / calcotmanor.co.uk Campden Gallery: 01386 841555 / GL55 6AG / campdengallery.co.uk Chapel Arts Centre: 01225 461700 / BA1 1QR / chapelarts.org Charlecote Park: 01789 470277 / CV35 9ER / nationaltrust.org.uk/charlecote-park Chastleton House: 01494 755560 / GL56 0SU / nationaltrust.org.uk/chastleton-house-and-garden Chedworth Roman Villa: 01242 890256 / GL54 3LJ / nationaltrust.org.uk/chedworth-roman-villa Cheltenham Town Hall: 01242 521621 / GL52 1QA / cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk Chorley’s Auctioneers & Valuers: 01452 344499 / GL4 8EU / www.chorleys.com Cirencester Philharmonia: cirencesterphil.co.uk The Coach House: 01367 850216 / GL7 3RB / thecoach-house.com Compton Verney: 01926 645500 / CV35 9HZ / comptonverney.org.uk Corinium Museum: 01285 655611 / GL7 2BX / coriniummuseum.org Cotswold House Hotel: 01386 840330 / GL55 6AN / cotswoldhouse.com Cotswold Wildlife Park: 01993 823006 / OX18 4JP / cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk Coughton Court: 01789 400777 / B49 5JA / coughtoncourt.co.uk The Courts Garden: 01225 782875 / BA14 6RR/ nationaltrust.org.uk/courts-garden Dean Forest Railway and Museum: 01594 845840 / GL15 4ET / deanforestrailway.co.uk Dean Heritage Centre: 01594 822170 / GL14 2UB / deanheritagecentre.com Dormy House: 01386 852711 / WR12 7LF / dormyhouse.co.uk Dursley Operatic & Dramatic Society: 07890 203318 / GL11 4JB / the-dods.com Dyrham Park: 0117 937 2501 / SN14 8ER / nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park Everyman Theatre: 01242 572573 / GL50 1HQ / everymantheatre.org.uk Farncombe Estate, Broadway: 0333 456 8580 / WR12 7LJ / farncombecourses.co.uk The Fashion Museum: 01225 477789 / BA1 2QH / museumofcostume.co.uk The Forum, Bath: 01225 443114 / BA1 1UG / bathforum.co.uk The Fosse Gallery: 01451 831319 / GL54 1AF / fossegallery.com The Gallery @ The Guild: 07870 417144 / GL55 6DS / thegalleryattheguild.co.uk

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Gallery Pangolin: 01453 889765 / GL6 8NT / gallery-pangolin.com Gloucester Cathedral: 01452 528095 / GL1 2LX / gloucestercathedral.org.uk Gloucester Guildhall: 01452 503050 / GL1 1NS / gloucester.gov.uk/guildhall Green Park Station: BA1 2DR Gordon Russell Design Museum: 01386 854695 / WR12 7AP / gordonrussellmuseum.org Hall’s Croft: 01789 204016 / CV37 6BG / shakespeare.org.uk Harvey Nichols, Bristol: 0117 916 8888 / BS1 3BZ / harveynichols.com The Heritage Motor Centre: 01926 641188 / CV35 0BJ / heritage-motor-centre.co.uk Herschel Museum of Astronomy: 01225 446865 / BA1 2BL / herschelmuseum.org.uk Hidcote Manor: 01386 438333 / GL55 6LR / nationaltrust.org.uk/hidcote Holburne Museum: 01225 388588 / BA2 4DB / holburne.org The John Davies Gallery: 01608 652255 / GL56 9NQ / johndaviesgallery.com John Noott Galleries at Broadway Modern: 01386 858436 / WR12 7AA / john-noott.com Kelmscott Manor: 01367 253348 / GL7 3HJ / kelmscottmanor.org.uk Kenilworth Castle: 01926 748900 / CV8 1NE / english-heritage.org.uk Komedia: 0845 293 8480 / BA1 1EP / komedia.co.uk Lacock Abbey: 01249 730459 / SN15 2LG / nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum: 01926 742700 / CV32 4AA / warwickdc.gov.uk Little Buckland Gallery: 01386 853739 / WR12 7JH / littlebucklandgallery.co.uk Lodge Park: 01451 844130 / GL54 3PP / nationaltrust.org.uk/lodge-park-and-sherborne-estate Loft Theatre: 0844 493 4938 / CV31 3AA / loft-theatre.co.uk The Lord Leycester Hospital: 01926 491422 / CV34 4BH / lordleycester.com Lower Slaughter Manor: 01451 820456 / GL54 2HP / lowerslaughter.co.uk Lucknam Park: 01225 742777 / SN14 8AZ / lucknampark.co.uk Lydiard House: 01793 770401 / SN5 3PA / lydiardpark.org.uk MAD Museum: 01926 865831 / CV37 6EF / themadmuseum.co.uk Malmesbury Abbey: 01666 826666 / SN16 0AA / malmesburyabbey.info 4

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WHAT’S on diary: Contact Details

Mary Arden’s Farm: 01789 204016 / CV37 9HH / shakespeare.org.uk Meantime: 07866 814776 / GL50 4EF / meantime.org.uk Museum in the Park: 01453 763394 / GL5 4AF / museuminthepark.org.uk Nash’s House and New Place: 01789 292325 / CV37 6EP / shakespeare.org.uk National Herb Centre: 01295 690999 / OX17 1DF / herbcentre.co.uk Nature in Art: 01452 731422 / GL2 9PA / nature-in-art.org.uk New Brewery Arts: 01285 657181 / GL7 1JL / newbreweryarts.org.uk Newark Park: 01453 842644 / GL12 7PZ / nationaltrust.org.uk/newark-park National Gardens Scheme (NGS): ngs.org.uk No.1 Royal Crescent: 01225 428126 / BA1 2LR / bath-preservation-trust.org.uk Noel Arms Hotel: 01386 840317 / GL55 6AT / noelarmshotel.com Old Mill Gallery: 01380 724550 / SN10 5SF / oldmillarts.co.uk The Oxfordshire Museum: 01993 811456 / OX20 1SN / oxfordshire.gov.uk Parabola Arts Centre: 01242 707338 / GL50 3AA / parabolaartscentre.co.uk The Paragon Gallery: 01242 233391 / GL50 1SW / paragongallery.co.uk Pittville Pump Room: 01242 521621 / GL52 3JE / cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk Playbox Theatre: 01926 419555 / CV34 6LE / playboxtheatre.com The Playhouse, Cheltenham: 01242 522852 / GL53 7HG / cheltplayhouse.org.uk Pound Arts: 01249 701628 / SN13 9HX / poundarts.org.uk Prema: 01453 860703 / GL11 5SS / prema.org.uk Priory Park: 01225 833422 / BA2 5AH / nationaltrust.org.uk/prior-park Rondo Theatre: 01225 444003 / BA1 6RT / rondotheatre.co.uk Rousham House: 01869 347 110 / OX25 4QU / rousham.org Royal Pump Rooms, Leamington Spa: 01926 742762 / CV32 4AA / warwickdc.gov.uk/royalpumprooms Royal Spa Centre: 01926 334418 / CV32 4AT / warwickdc.gov.uk/royalspacentre RSC Swan Theatre: 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk RSC Theatre: 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk RUH (Royal United Hospital): 01225 824987 / BA1 3NG / ruh.nhs.uk/art Shakespeare’s Birthplace: 01789 204016 / CV37 6QW / shakespeare.org.uk

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Slimbridge Wetland Centre: 01453 891900 / GL2 7BT / wwt.org.uk Snowshill Manor and Garden: 01386 842814 / WR12 7JU / nationaltrust.org.uk/snowshill-manor Stoneleigh Abbey: 01926 858535 / CV8 2LF / stoneleighabbey.org The Stour Gallery: 01608 664411 / CV36 4AJ / thestourgallery.co.uk Stourhead: 01747 841152 / BA12 6QD / nationaltrust.org.uk/stourhead Stratford Racecourse: 01789 267949 / CV37 9SE / stratfordracecourse.net Stratford ArtsHouse: 01789 207100 / CV37 6LU / stratfordartshouse.co.uk Stroud Valley Artspace: 01453 751440 / GL5 2HA / sva.org.uk The Subscription Rooms: 01453 760999 / GL5 1AE / subscriptionrooms.org.uk Sundial Theatre: 01285 654228 / GL7 1XA / sundial-theatre.co.uk Swindon Arts Centre: 01793 614837 / SN1 4BJ / swindon.gov.uk Swindon Museum and Art Gallery: 01793 466556 / SN1 4BA / swindon.gov.uk Tewkesbury Abbey: 01684 850959 / GL20 5RZ / tewkesburyabbey.org.uk The Theatre, Chipping Norton: 01608 642350 / OX7 5NL / chippingnortontheatre.co.uk Theatre Royal, Bath: 01225 448844 / BA1 1ET / theatreroyal.org.uk Three Counties Showground: 01684 584900 / WR13 6NW / threecounties.co.uk Thyme at Southrop Manor: 01367 850174 / GL7 3NX / thymeatsouthrop.co.uk Under the Edge Arts (UTEA): 07791 323869 / GL12 7HW / utea.org.uk Upton House: 01295 670266 / OX15 6HT / nationaltrust.org.uk/upton-house Victoria Art Gallery: 01225 477233 / BA2 4AT / victoriagal.org.uk Warwick Arts Centre: 024 7652 4524 / CV4 7AL / warwickartscentre.co.uk Warwick Racecourse: 0844 579 3013 / CV34 6HN / warwickracecourse.co.uk Waterperry Gardens: 01844 339226 / OX33 1JZ / waterperrygardens.co.uk Westbury Court Garden: 01452 760429 / GL14 1PD / nationaltrust.org.uk/westbury-court-garden Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa: 01666 822888 / SN16 0RB / whatleymanor.com The Wilson: GL50 3JT / 01242 237431 / cheltenhammuseum.org.uk Wootton Village Hall: woottontalks.co.uk Wyvern Theatre: 01793 524481 / SN1 1QN / wyverntheatre.org.uk

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S on feature: CADA art & antique Fair Régate à Henley by Jacques Emile Blanche, presented by Trinity House Paintings at the CADA Art & Antique Fair

Thursday 16 – Sunday 19 April

The Cotswolds Art & Antique Dealers’ Association Fair at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock The fourth annual CADA Fair returns to the elegant setting of Blenheim Palace, showcasing top quality art and antiques from 29 exhibitors…

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Since its inaugural event in 2012, the Cotswolds Art & Antique Dealers’ Association (CADA) Fair has become known as one of the UK’s leading fine art and antiques fairs, featuring top tier exhibitors and exhibits. As previously, this year’s fair is being held in The Orangery at Blenheim Palace, overlooking the palace’s magnificent formal gardens.

The charm of this fair is that it provides a unique opportunity to discover exceptional and quirky pieces from CADA-accredited dealers throughout the Cotswolds, without having to travel the length and breadth of the area. The very best of every discipline within fine art and antiques is showcased: furniture, pictures, silver, early needlework, antique boxes, sculpture, clocks and barometers, carpets and textiles, jewellery, Oriental and English ceramics, garden ornaments and many other decorative objects. All works are for sale, with prices ranging up to £100,000.

A CADA newcomer at the 2015 fair is Delomosne & Son, from Chippenham, specialising in English and Irish 18 th & 19 th century glass and porcelain. Among this dealer’s stock is a rare pair of English ship’s decanters engraved with armorial badges bearing the motto deo juvante, c.1800.

Also new this year are five guest dealers, all members of the British Antique Dealers’ Association (BADA), who have been invited by CADA to show alongside its own 24 members to complement the many disciplines of the fair.

The guest exhibitors are Peter Bunting Antiques, specialising in antique oak furniture, portraits and tapestries; Mary Cooke Antiques, dealing in antique silver and collectors’ items; Joanna Booth, specialising in early sculpture, tapestries and Old Master Drawings; Timothy Millett, dealing in historical medals; and Cynthia Walmsley, a specialist in portrait miniatures.

Highlights within the fair include an oil painting, presented by Witney Antiques, of Anne Barlow, the eldest daughter of Simon, 1st Viscount Harcourt. The work is attributed to Godfrey Kneller, the leading portrait painter of the 18th century, and the picture is listed as being hung in the librar y at Nuneham Courtenay, Oxfordshire, from the early 18th century until 1993.

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APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S on feature: CADA art & antique Fair

Opposite page, from top: Hampton Antiques’ collection of Art Deco cocktail shakers and 1950s Dunhill lighters; a fine octagonal tortoiseshell tea caddy, c.1820, from Hampton Antiques; a rare English delftware pottery blue dash portrait charger of Queen Anne, c.1700, presented by John Howard at Heritage This page, from top: Absolute Toppers by George Derville Rowlandson, presented by John Noott Galleries; The Town Hall and North & South Bridge Street, Banbury, Oxon by William Frederick Austin, presented by Newman Fine Art

More highlights include antique boxes, such as an octagonal tortoiseshell tea caddy, c.1820 (pictured left), and an exquisite amboyna silver gilt vanity box, c.1854, both from Hampton Antiques. Hampton’s stand is also a good source for Art Deco cocktail shakers and 1950s Dunhill lighters. From Legge Carpets, one of the finest antique carpets is a Suzani from Uzbekistan from the late 19th century, a silk embroidery on hand woven linen.

For collectors of ceramics, there is a very good early Prattware large model of a spotted cat, c.1800, along with a fine 18 th century Derby porcelain large figure of Britannia, both presented

by Andrew Dando. Chairman of CADA, John Howard, is the leading specialist dealer in 18 th and 19th century British pottery, and he has sourced a rare English delftware pottery blue dash charger

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with the royal portrait of Queen Anne with the initials A R, along with an excellent provenance.

Hall-Bakker Decorative Arts specialises in a wide range of post-1860s design such as an Art Nouveau Galle cameo vase of seule fleur form and an Arts & Crafts sea green glass vinaigrette

by James Powell & Sons, c.1907.

Paintings are well represented, too. Among the works on its stand, John Noott Galleries is presenting a themed display of dogs of all shapes, sizes and breeds. Lovers of marine art will enjoy Frigate Getting Underway, signed and dated 1854 by William Joy (1803 –1866), from Stuart Boyd Fine Art. The Kyffin Gallery is showing an oil on canvas of Polperro, Cornwall, by the Dutch artist Hendrik Jan Wolter (1873–1952) who was a passionate advocate of plein air paintings and is known particularly for his harbour scenes.4

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WHAT’S on feature: CADA art & antique Fair Left: Victorian diamond and enamel serpent bangle, c.1870, presented by Howards Jewellers Below: Rudyard Kipling No.2 original etching by William Strang, printed by the artist’s son David Strang, presented

by Elizabeth Harvey-Lee

Régate à Henley, an oil on panel painted by Jacques Emile Blanche (1861–1942) in 1920, can be found on Trinity House Paintings’ stand.

Sarah Colegrave, who deals in 19 th & 20th century pictures, is bringing Arriving at the Ball, an oil

by Cyrus Cincinnato Cuneo (1879–1916), and a watercolour of the UK’s very first sex symbol and golden girl of the 1930s, Frances Day, painted by Robert Stewart Sherriffs (1906 –1960).

Elizabeth Harvey-Lee, a specialist print dealer, is bringing an original etching from 1898 of Rudyard Kipling by William Strang RA, an admirer of Kipling who etched several portraits of him.

And among the many watercolours with Newman Fine Art is one of interest to local residents: The Town Hall and North & South Bridge Street, Banbury, Oxon by William Frederick Austin (1833 – 1899), signed and dated 1863.

Howards Jewellers of Stratford is taking two stands: one creating a sparkling display of jewellery including a stunning Victorian diamond and enamel serpent bangle, c.1870; the other presenting a broad selection of silver. For horology enthusiaists, Tobias Birch of Montpellier Clocks has a couple of stunning highlights including a rare and very small English rosewood mantel clock, c.1830, and a fine and rare longcase regulator of the best ’Mudge & Dutton’ quality, c.1790.

Garden design is on offer from Architectural Heritage, which has a huge range of antique

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statuary such as a pair of decorative wrought iron garden gates from c.1900, a late 19th century sundial and a stained and painted glass window from c.1860 illustrating the ’Arms of England’ – the armorial bearings of Richard I or Coeur de Lion.

This year’s fair is helping to raise money for the Winston Churchill Memorial Window, a new stained glass window designed by Emma Blount for the south side of St Martin’s Church in Bladon.

As the church is the last resting place of Sir Winston Churchill, it is visited by thousands of people each year. 2015 has a particular significance, since this year marks the 50th anniversary of Churchill’s death.

The CADA Fair is open from 10am–5:30pm daily. A complimentary invitation to the fair, available from CADA’s website, www.thecada.org, admits two to the fair and the palace grounds.

Cotswolds Art & Antique Dealers’ Association Fair: 07831 850544 / 07855 443913 / OX20 1PP / cadafair.com

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S on feature: emerging british artists at chorley’s

Aria by Tom Hoar

­Wednesday 22 – Sunday 26 April

‘Emerging British Artists’ exhibition at Chorley’s saleroom, Prinknash Abbey Park

Don’t miss this selling exhibition of works by a select group of up-and-coming British artists…

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WHAT’S on feature: emerging british artists at chorley’s

Dot to Spot by Guy Allen

Chorley’s saleroom in the grounds of Prinknash Abbey is well known for hosting fine art and antique auctions, offering for sale fine Georgian and Victorian furniture, paintings, silver and ceramics.

However, this month the auctioneers are also presenting a Spring exhibition of contemporary art in a largely representational style, entitled Emerging British Artists.

One of the young artists whose work is on display is Tom Hoar, who has worked as Artist-inResidence for the Household Cavalry and whose portfolio includes a collection of lively paintings depicting the colourful world of Giffords Circus.

Another featured artist who uses equestrian subjects is Guy Allen. He brings a contemporary approach to the traditional art of etching and one of his accolades is that his work has been accepted

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by the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition for the last two years.

Bronzes by Georgiana Anstruther, who was classically trained in Italy, add a three dimensional aspect to the exhibition. Anstruther’s sculptures of animals and figures place particular emphasis on patination techniques.

The exhibition is open daily from 10am–4pm, with entry free of charge. Prices of works on display range from £50–£3,000 offering an excellent opportunity to find a painting or sculpture from these promising artists, early in their careers.

Selected items from Chorley’s upcoming auction of antiques will also be on view around the saleroom.

Chorley’s, Prinknash Abbey Park, near Cheltenham: 01452 344499 / GL4 8EU / chorleys.com

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

© Sigrid Estrada

WHAT’S on feature: Chipping Norton Literary Festival

Lee Child

Thursday 23 – Sunday 26 April

Chipping Norton Literary Festival Now in its fourth year, the 2015 festival features a distinguished line-up of authors from a wide range of genres including fiction, biography, politics and sport…

This literary festival’s special appeal is its intimate scale, with venues such as The Theatre, the Town Hall, the Methodist Hall and the 16 th century pub The Chequers, hosting talks by well known literary figures in ‘up close and personal’ settings.

Headline speakers at this year’s festival include Lee Child, the British thriller writer and creator of Jack Reacher, who is in conversation with fellow crime writer and festival patron Matt Billingham on Saturday 25 (10am–11am). This talk is followed by an event with Julie Cohen, who is interviewing Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan about their popular book club as well as their own novels (Saturday 25, 12noon–1pm).

The four day line-up also includes talks by crime writer M.C. Beaton; bestselling author S.J. Watson; comedy writer, actress and novelist Helen Lederer; and The Times’ Chief Sports Correspondent, Matt Dickinson. Fans of political

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writing have the opportunity to hear from John Crace, Polly Toynbee and Baroness Trumpington, who is talking about her bestselling memoir Coming Up Trumps.

As well as these literary talks, the festival hosts creative writing workshops, performance poetry and a literary quiz. A photography exhibition, Writers, Not Writing, commissioned from local photographer Jane Stillwell, offers a window into the lives of authors away from their desks.

Children are well catered for, with talks by renowned children’s authors including John Dougherty, Peter Horacek, Tamsyn Murray and Joe Craig, as well as film animation workshops.

The festival is held in partnership with The Theatre, Chipping Norton, and Jaffé & Neale Bookshop and Cafe.

Chipping Norton Literary Festival: 01608 642350 / chiplitfest.com

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Dame Harriet Walter

Saturday 25 April – Sunday 3 May

2015 Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival at Stratford ArtsHouse

Set in the home town of the world’s greatest writer, this is one of the UK’s most respected literary festivals, attracting thousands of people who share a love of books, writing and reading…

The Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival, now in its eighth year, has become a major player in the UK’s literary calendar. It is known for presenting a high profile programme of debates, author events, workshops, current affairs and events for children.

More than 80 events showcase the diversity of literature, embracing a wide variety of topics ranging from politics, world affairs and business to gardening, creative writing and fiction. Guest speakers each year include Literary Laureates,

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Sunday Times Bestseller authors, biographers of celebrated characters, screenwriters, illustrators, comedians, adventurers, chefs, news presenters and business leaders.

In 2015, the speaker line-up includes four Dames: the actress Dame Harriet Walter, best selling author Dame Jacqueline Wilson, historical biographer Dame Antonia Fraser and web supremo Dame Wendy Hall, who gives this year’s Big Issue Lecture exploring the future impact of the internet on communication and creativity.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

© Caroline Forbes

WHAT’S on feature: Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival

Paul Merton

These four women lead a programme that also features comedian Paul Merton, political spin doctor Alistair Campbell, novelists Alexander McCall Smith and Adele Parks, Waterstones Book of the Year winner Jessie Burton and Sunday Times correspondent Christina Lamb.

With the General Election taking place just days after the festival finishes, politics is high on this year’s agenda. There are events with The Guardian’s John Crace, journalist Sam Delaney, former Observer editor Will Hutton and Tory grandees Lord Waldergrave and Lord Hurd. There is also a timely panel discussion about political satire.

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Christina Lamb © Christopher Phipps

© Idil Sukan

Alastair Campbell

Richard Davenport-Hines

Historian Tracy Borman, author of a highly acclaimed book on Thomas Cromwell, is giving her expert angle on the current passion for all things Tudor. Charlotte Green looks back on her career in Radio 4 and a panel including The Archers’ Jill Archer discusses the impact of the Women’s Institute, which is celebrating its centenary this year. To add some levity to proceedings, there are insights into comedy with Helen Lederer and the award winning Francesca Martinez.

For the first time, the festival is combining music and words in two of its events: Dame Harriet Walter reads The Waste Land, with a musical 4

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WHAT’S on feature: Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival

The festival’s events include a tribute to the late Felix Dennis

Jaqueline Wilson

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accompaniment, to mark the 50 th anniversary of the death of TS Eliot, and the acclaimed pianist Lucy Parham partners with RSC actor Simon Russell Beale in a performance of Debussy’s work and readings from his diaries.

Those who love to sing can also join in with BBC1’s The Voice coach Juliet Russell to rehearse and perform in one day the winning lyrics in the festival’s Song for Stratford Competition.

For 2015, the festival has partnered with The Guardian Masterclasses to offer writers a series of workshops tutored by leading names in fiction and non-fiction including Mavis Cheek, Dreda Say Mitchell and memoir writer Sally Cline. The programme also includes free ’New Voices’ events for debut writers to showcase their work.

“We are really excited by this year’s line-up which is packed with great themes and events,” says programme director Annie Ashworth. “We are touching on subjects as diverse as surviving teenagers and research for crime writing, the power of poetry to heal and the life of Maynard Keynes.”

The festival is at the heart of the community and it promotes many innovative projects. For example, each year aspiring poets and authors of all ages are invited to submit a piece of their work for inclusion in a themed, published Festival Book, the jacket of which is selected from designs by a local art college students.

Running alongside the main events is a Children’s Programme which reaches out to over 2,000 young people from around 20 schools in the region. As always, the festival finishes with its annual Children’s Day (Sunday 3 May) which features an impressive selection of authors and illustrators. Guests include Percy The Park Keeper creator Nick Butterworth, illustrator Chris Riddell and writing partners Sarah McIntyre and Philip Reeve. There is a puppet show written by Michael Rosen and workshop activities such as comic bookmaking and storytelling.

This year, the festival’s events are being held in the newly refurbished Stratford ArtsHouse in the town centre. Tickets for all events should be booked in advance and, due to high demand, early booking is recommended.

Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival: 01789 207100 / CV37 6LU / stratfordliteraryfestival.co.uk

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S on feature: Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2015

Wednesday 29 April – Monday 4 May

Clare Teal

Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2015 This popular annual festival returns to Cheltenham with a bold programme featuring a host of established stars and emerging talent…

This year’s Cheltenham Jazz Festival presents six days of classic and contemporary jazz, blues, soul and pop. The line-up includes high profile artists such as singer-songwriter Rumer, Dutch superstar Caro Emerald, experimental producer and composer Squarepusher, queen of soul Martha Reeves, DJ and broadcaster Gilles Peterson, former Dr Feelgood guitarist Wilko Johnson, Californian blues-rocker Beth Hart and jazz singer and broadcaster Clare Teal.

The festival is hosted in a tented village in Cheltenham’s Montpellier Gardens which features the Big Top, the Jazz Arena, the Take Five Tent (featuring talks, workshops and family activities) and a food, drink and market area. Shows are also held at various venues around the town.

Jamie Cullum is once again the festival’s Guest Director. As well as having handpicked a selection of events for the programme, he is performing with the trailblazing US band Medeski, Martin & Wood. Other high profile acts on the bill are John Scofield, whose collaboration with German pianist Pablo Held’s trio is currently receiving rave reviews; master ngoni player Bassekou Kouyate; Lee Konitz’s new quintet, featuring virtuoso trumpeter Dave Douglas; and legendary African drummer Tony Allen.

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Justifying its reputation as one of the most forward-thinking festivals in Europe, a varied collection of the next generation of global jazz stars are represented. These include the AngloFrench trio In Bed With; Swiss trombonist and composer Samuel Blaser; Spanish singer and multi-instrumentalist Andrea Motis; and European trio Phronesis, whose Pitch Black project is being per formed in total darkness. Per formances encompass unique collaborations, special commissions and debut UK appearances.

Top UK talent is also appearing on the bill, such as Hackney Colliery Band; the Mercurynominated piano trio GoGo Penguin; Neil Cowley Trio; the Rachael Cohen Quartet featuring Phil Robson; soul diva Natalie William; and the Julian Arguelles Septet, a band formed especially for the festival.

Festival Director Ian George says, “Jazz legends, stars of tomorrow, groundbreaking international acts and local emerging talent all once again populate a Cheltenham Jazz Festival programme that reflects the incredible breadth and diversity of the genre.”

Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2015: 0844 880 8094 / cheltenhamfestivals.com

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Seville Fair by Dennis Syrett

Saturday 11 – Sunday 26 April

Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries at Broadway Modern, Broadway A group exhibition by members of the Royal Society of British Artists including David Sawyer, Dennis Syrett, Nicholas Verrall and the society’s President, James Horton…

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Exhibition in the Spotlight

Venice Delivery by Nicholas Verrall

The Society of British Artists was founded in 1823 by a group of 27 painters under the Presidency of Thomas Heaphy. Artists at the time were the equivalent of the celebrity stars of today, fêted by the aristocracy and royalty and collected by powerful industrialists. The elite among them were sometimes granted membership of the Royal Academy, but as membership of that organisation was limited to 50, including sculptors, printmakers

La Tristesse, The Piazzetta, Venice by David Sawyer

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and architects as well as painters, the election of a new Academician was dependent upon the death or resignation of an incumbent.

The birth of another society was inevitable and the SBA’s new galleries, designed by the fashionable Regency architect John Nash, were created in Suffolk Street only a short distance from the Royal Academy in Somerset House.

Early progress was hindered by financial problems caused by the innovative design of the roof, which began to collapse not long after the galleries were opened. However, the Society’s numbers finally reached 50 half a century after it was established.

The Society received a boost to its prestige in Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee Year of 1887 when, under the leadership of James McNeill Whistler, it won the right to use the prefix ’Royal’.

Whistler also raised the profile of the Society by setting standards of acceptance, which attracted the attention of London’s fashionable set as well as leading artists such as Monet and Alfred Stevens, both of whom became Honorary Members.

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Exhibition in the Spotlight

Morning Mist Tuscany by Nicholas Verrall

In the years that followed, the Society attracted many painters and sculptors of note including Walter Sickert, LS Lowry, Henry Moore, Peter Greenham, Sir Roger de Grey, Carel Weight and Colin Hayes. Under the present leadership of president James Horton, whose work is included in this exhibition at John Noott Galleries, it continues to pursue artistic excellence.

Aside from the Society’s annual exhibition held at Mall Galleries (its more recent London home), it also holds a programme of exhibitions at selected galleries across the UK. These additional exhibitions help to keep the organisation in the public eye and reinforce its values, as well as providing the opportunity for work by the Society’s members to be seen collectively.

John Noott Galleries at Broadway Modern is open Monday to Saturday, from 9:30am–1pm and 2pm–5pm, and on Sunday, from 11am–5pm. Wine will be ser ved on

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Saturday 11 April to celebrate the opening of this exhibition. If you are unable to visit the galler y, the entire exhibition can also be viewed online at www.john-noott.com.

Artists whose work is included in the exhibition: • • • • • • • • • •

Chris Aggs David Brammeld Judith Gardner Carole Griffin Julian Halsby Ann Heat James Horton Anna Lever Arthur Lockwood John Martin

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Christopher Miers Ronald Morgan David Sawyer Julia Sorrell Tessa SpencerPryse Dennis Syrett Jacqueline Taber Nick Tidnam Nicholas Verrall Valerie Warren John Wilkinson Anne Wright Anthony Yates

John Noott Galleries at Broadway Modern: 01386 858969 / bm@john-noott.com / WR12 7AA

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

www.fossegallery.com Fosse Gallery Fine Art, The Manor House, The Square, Stow-on-the-Wold, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 1AF 01451 831319 mail @ fossegallery.com

Human Nature by Nicola Slattery Private View : Sunday 19th April 2015 11.00am - 4.00pm, exhibition continues until 9th May Riding Free, acrylic on wood panel, 28 x 40 inches

Fosse ad 2-3-15 half page ad AW.indd 1

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Food For Thought Exhibition British Museum Collaboration

25 April - 5 July Explore food in Roman Britain and the wider Roman World Free Entry

Head of a mule, part of a bronze couch-end, Roman, 1st century BC–AD 1st century Š Trustees of the British Museum

www.coriniummuseum.org

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Exhibitions &AApriluctions from Wednesday 1 Susan Stockwell: Sea-Markings at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk The internationally acclaimed artist Susan Stockwell has created the largest installation ever to have been commissioned by the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). Her suspended sail installation takes over the public spaces of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and opens alongside an exhibition of her new artworks in the RSC’s exhibition space, the PACCAR Room.

Stockwell has been Artist-in-Residence at the RSC since September 2014, immersing herself within all areas of the theatre. The installation and exhibition are inspired by this year’s summer season productions of Othello and The Merchant of Venice, drawing on the themes of trade, identity and diversity. Stockwell uses materials from the everyday and the domestic, from manufacturing and industry, and her work is held in public and private collections around the world. The exhibition continues until 6 September.

Sail Away by Susan Stockwell at RSC’s PACCAR Room

until Saturday 4 Unearthed: Riches of the Romans and AngloSaxons at Banbury Museum 01295 753752 / OX16 2PQ / banburymuseum.org Explore archaeological treasures of the first millennium AD that have been unearthed in Oxfordshire. In this family friendly interactive exhibition, discover the stories they tell us and find out what connects Bicester with the Colosseum in Rome. until Saturday 11

from Friday 3 Talwin Morris and the Glasgow Style at Court Barn, Chipping Campden 01386 841951 / GL55 6JE / courtbarn.org.uk An exhibition celebrating the work of Talwin Morris, art director from 1893 of the Glasgow publishers Blackie and Son. He became a friend of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his contemporaries, and distinctive elements of the Glasgow Style are reflected in Morris’ work.

The exhibition runs until 17 May.

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Talwin Morris exhibition at Court Barn

A Dog a Day at Pound Arts, Corsham 01249 701628 / SN13 9HX / poundarts.org.uk In February 2103, Sally Muir set out to make a dog portrait every day for a year. At the end of those 365 days, she saw no reason to stop and has since amassed a huge range of drawings, prints and paintings capturing the spirit of the dogs she meets each day.

A Dog a Day is a selling exhibition which includes all these characters.

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WHAT’S ON: Exhibitions & Auctions Saturday 11 – Sunday 26 Royal Society of British Artists exhibition at John Noott Galleries at Broadway Modern, Broadway 01386 858969 / WR12 7AA / john-noott.com A group exhibition by members of the Royal Society of British Artists including David Sawyer, Arthur Lockwood, Dennis Syrett, Ann Heat, Anna Lever, Tessa Spencer-Pryse, Valerie Warren, Judith Gardner, David Brameld, Christopher Miers, Jacqueline Taber and the society’s President, James Horton. The gallery is open Monday to Saturday, from 9:30am–1pm and 2pm–5pm, and on Sunday, from 11am–5pm. For further details, see our Exhibition in the Spotlight on pages 56–58. until Sunday 12 Martha Ford, Charlotte Miller and Louise Sanders exhibitions at Prema, Uley 01453 860703 / GL11 5SS / prema.org.uk These contrasting exhibitions feature the work of three contemporary British artists. Martha Ford’s illustrations display striking compositions, often including tiny human habitats or characters in isolated, mysterious and sometimes slightly bleak landscapes. She creates rich colour palettes, patterns and handmade textures using traditional materials such as acrylic, gouache, pencils, ink and watercolour, to which she then applies digital painting techniques to adapt her

Quinces on Red by Chris Aggs at John Noott Galleries at Broadway Modern

images. Charlotte Miller is a Bournemouth-based ceramicist who creates handmade sculptures and tableware inspired by animals within domestic settings. Her anthropomorphic budgie sculptures are both endearing and nostalgic whilst her quirky tableware is a tribute to English eccentric kitsch.

Louise Sanders is inspired by pattern and colour, and her current work explores the contradictions between idealized holiday destinations and the reality of a place. Her interest in reflection has led her to develop a striking and characteristic use of gloss on aluminium.

A Tale of Two Rivers by Richard Thorn at The John Davies Gallery

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until Wednesday 15 Richard Thorn exhibition at The John Davies Gallery, Moreton-in-Marsh 01608 652255 / GL56 9NQ / johndaviesgallery.com This exhibition is entitled The Teign Valley and Two Rivers and features works by the contemporary British painter Richard Thorn. The artist was born in Devon and has lived most of his life in this county so these paintings draw on the landscapes with which he is so familiar. Thorn is 4

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inspired by nature and he constantly strives to capture its fleeting forms in his work. He comments, “If I have captured the ’spirit’ of a scene and conveyed it to the viewer, then I have succeeded in my task as an artist.” The gallery is open Monday to Saturday, from 9:30am–5pm. until Friday 17 Bath Open Studios at RUH (Royal United Hospital), Bath 01225 824987 / BA1 3NG / ruh.nhs.uk/art In anticipation of the four Open Art Trails (Bear Flat, Larkhall, Newbridge and Widcombe) which are taking place in May, a selection of wallhung pieces are on show in the hospital’s central corridors. The exhibition has been brought together

by Bath Open Studios in collaboration with the Art at the Heart Team at the RUH. It features around 100 works including paintings, mixed media, prints, mosaics and photography. from Friday 17 Russian Evolution 2015: an exhibition of contemporary Russian art at The Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham 01242 233391 / GL50 1SW / paragongallery.co.uk Following its highly successful 2014 Russian show, Cheltenham’s Paragon Gallery is exhibiting the work of ten Russian painters. This exhibition includes new pieces from resident artists Iryna Yermolova, Sabir and Svetlana Gadzhiev, Katya

Julie Brook exhibition at Little Buckland Gallery

Gridneva, Boris Anikin and Alexei Basanov, who are joined by new artists: Sergei Ovcharuk, known for his vibrant impressionist paintings, Olga Simonova, Sasha Larionova, Olga Oreshnikov and Kirill Gorodetsky. Contemporary Russian painting has grown enormously in popularity in the West and in Britain in particular, with its once highly idiosyncratic attributes bending to Western tastes. The exhibition continues until 2 May and there is a Private View from 6pm on Thursday 16 April. Please contact the gallery for invitations.

until Saturday 18 Present Tense: Contemporary British Painting & Photography from The Swindon Collection at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery 01793 466556 / SN1 4BA / swindon.gov.uk Present Tense showcases contemporary painting and photography produced since the 1990s and challenges the idea that contemporary art is elitist or incomprehensible. Starting with the fall of the Berlin Wall and looking at history and society, it investigates the way artists continue to react to the world around them and create new realities. Featured works include Steven Pippin’s Turner Prize nominated series Walking Naked (Laundromat Locomotion); Robert Priseman’s Home series, a group of six small and elaborately framed paintings showing houses where notorious crimes have taken place; Returning The Kiss by Kirill Gorodetsky at The Paragon Gallery

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WHAT’S ON: Exhibitions & Auctions and Magnus Quaife’s 1969 and Other Myths, recently presented to Swindon Museum by the Contemporary Art Society. Through painting and photography, the exhibition examines how everyday life, place, memory and repetition influence contemporary British art. until Sunday 19 Julie Brook: Made, Unmade at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway 01386 853739 / WR12 7JH / littlebucklandgallery.co.uk Julie Brook is an innovative British artist who is currently shortlisted for the Daiwa Foundation Art Prize 2015. Over the past 20+ years, she has lived and worked in a succession of wild and remote landscapes, creating sculptures, paintings, drawings and films. Her studio is based on the Isle of Skye but she has recently worked in different parts of the desert in Central and South West Libya (2008–09), Syria (2010) and North West Namibia (2011–12). Her responses to the land are about realignment of material and shifts in scale and

how these influence our perception of space.

This exhibition, entitled Made, Unmade, presents her carefully sequenced film, photographs and works on paper. It is an immersive experience that draws the audience into the desert to watch as the landscape is redrawn. Brook is at the gallery, in conversation with sculptor and installation artist Angela Palmer on Tuesday 7 April at 6pm; with printmaker Tricia Henry and artist Maxine Relon, with poetry by Michael Henry, on Thursday 16 at 6pm; and with Portugese film director Victor Gonçalves on Sunday 19 at 2:30pm. To book a free place at any of these events, please contact arabella@littlebucklandgallery.co.uk. The gallery is open daily throughout the exhibition. until Sunday 19 Between the Lines at Corinium Museum, Cirencester 01285 655611 / GL7 2BX / coriniummuseum.org Between the Lines is the latest exhibition by East Anglian Stitch Textiles, featuring works based on the artists’ response to the centenary of the First World War. Each of the group’s 12 artists4

The National Gallery Masterpiece Tour

Sponsored by

Canaletto’s A Regatta on the Grand Canal Victoria Art Gallery 7 March – 3 May

Victoria Art Gallery By Pulteney Bridge Bath BA2 4AT Tel 01225 477232 www.victoriagal.org.uk Tue to Sat 10.00 – 5.00pm Sun 1.30 – 5.00

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Canaletto, A Regatta on the Grand Canal (detail) © The National Gallery, London.

Bequeathed by Lord Revelstoke, 1929.

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WHAT’S ON: Exhibitions & Auctions so he captured the microcosmic aesthetic of his specimens and revealed the underlying structures of nature, which had until then remained unexplored.

Brown Hen by Nicola Slattery at Fosse Gallery

has explored the 1914–18 conflict, depicting themes which range from life on the Western Front and the role of women in the war, to its effects on the landscape and nature. As with all E.A.S.T. exhibitions, it encompasses a wide range of textile techniques. All works are for sale. until Sunday 19 Karl Blossfeldt: Art Forms in Nature at Nature in Art, Twigworth 01452 731422 / GL2 9PA / nature-in-art.org.uk Karl Blossfeldt: Art Forms in Nature presents an original portfolio of 40 photogravures from 1932, edited by the artist and published in the year of his death. The exhibition presents an opportunity to witness an exemplary set of Blossfeldt’s signature close-up images of plants and flora. Blossfeldt (1865–1932) is regarded as one of the defining photographers of the 20th century.

During his career, which included 6,000 photographs, he developed homemade cameras and lenses which enabled him to magnify his subjects by up to 30 times. In doing

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from Sunday 19 Nicola Slattery: Human Nature at the Fosse Gallery, Stow-on-the-Wold GL54 1AF / 01451 831319 / fossegallery.com An important solo exhibition of work by the well known figurative artist Nicola Slattery.

The exhibition is entitled Human Nature and features her most recent paintings. Slattery paints with acrylic on wood or makes prints using the drypoint and collagraph technique, creating figurative narrative images from imagination. Her paintings are in public, private and corporate collections around the world and have been included in many selected exhibitions, such as the New English Art Club, Royal Society of British Artists and the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition. The Fosse Gallery is open Monday to Saturday, from 10:30am–5pm. from Monday 20 Toro! at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford 01453 889765 / GL6 8NT / gallery-pangolin.com Sculpture and works on paper exploring and celebrating this formidable beast, including4

No.67 Cortesano by Marcus James at Gallery Pangolin

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Julie Brook Made, Unmade

Julie Brook is a British artist who for twenty and more years has roamed, lived and sculpted in a succession of uninhabited and remote landscapes in Scotland and further afield. More recently she has been working in the deserts of Libya and North West Namibia.

Made, unmade is an exquisite filmic account of the work she has created, alongside drawings and photographic works.

Julie will be ‘In Conversation’ at Little Buckland Gallery on: • •

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28 March – 19 April 2015, 11am – 4pm daily

Tue 7 April 6pm with artist, Angela Palmer Thu 16 April 6pm with printmaker, Tricia Henry and artist, Maxine Relton, with poetry by Michael Henry Sun 19 April 2.30pm with Portugese film director, Victor Gonçalves

Please book a place for any of the conversations: call 01386 853739 or arabella@littlebucklandgallery.co.uk Little Buckland Gallery Little Buckland, Broadway WR12 7JH Further details: littlebucklandgallery.co.uk Little Buckland Made Show Cots Preview ad.indd 1

03/03/2015 14:47

Fine art gallery located in the heart of the Cotswolds.

Displaying paintings and sculpture from leading British artists.

Spring Exhibition now on with great new work from Mike Bernard, Judith Bridgland and Helen Tabor.

Find out more at www.albiongallery.co.uk/exhibitions

27 High Street Chipping Norton OX7 5AD @albiongallery

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a series of life-size drawings by Marcus James. The gallery is open Monday to Friday, from 10am–6pm, and on Saturday, from 10am–1pm. from Tuesday 21 Nocturnal Encounters at Nature in Art, Twigworth 01452 731422 / GL2 9PA / nature-in-art.org.uk An exhibition of works by Colin SeePaynton, one of the world’s most revered printmakers. His wood engravings are based on meticulous observation of the natural world, inventing complex compositions that link species and their habitats.

Wednesday 22 – Sunday 26 Emerging British Artists at Chorley’s saleroom, Prinknash Abbey Park, near Cheltenham 01452 344499 / GL4 8EU / chorleys.com Chorley’s saleroom in the grounds of Prinknash Abbey is well known for hosting fine art and antique auctions, but this month it is also presenting a selling exhibition of contemporary art entitled Emerging British Artists. Three upand-coming British artists whose paintings and sculptures are on display are Tom Hoar, Guy Allen and Georgiana Anstruther, all of whom work in a largely representational style. The exhibition is

Camel by Georgiana Anstruther at Chorley’s

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Hare and Moonshadows

by Colin See-Paynton at Nature in Art

open daily from 10am–4pm, with entry free of charge. Prices of works on display range from £50– £3,000. For further details, see our What’s On feature on pages 49–50. from Friday 24 Mark Boulos: Echo at ICIA, Bath 01225 386777 / BA2 7AY / icia.org.uk In Echo, a video art installation, viewers encounter a ghostly ’reflection’ of themselves that moves and speaks as they do in real time, but is transposed upon a documentary background of an urban landscape. As the viewer continues to observe their doppelgänger, time is desynchronised and spatial perspective is distorted, to unsettling effect.

Developed in collaboration with leading cognitive neuroscientist Olaf Blanke, Echo continues the artist’s exploration of selfhood and otherness. from Saturday 25 Bring me Laughter: cartoons and caricatures from the collection of George & Pat Walker at Banbury Museum 01295 753752 / OX16 2PQ / banburymuseum.org A rare chance to see original artwork by many of the leading cartoonists and caricaturists of the 20th century including Anton, H.M. Bateman, Disney Studio, Giles, Max Beerbohm, Ronald Searle and Trog. This is the first opportunity to see

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WHAT’S ON: Exhibitions & Auctions the collection exhibited outside London. The show continues until 4 July.

© Trustees of the British Museum

from Saturday 25 Food For Thought at the Corinium Museum, Cirencester 01285 655611 / GL7 2BX / coriniummuseum.org This high profile exhibition explores everything that recent research has discovered about food in Roman Britain and the wider Roman world: the utensils used, how people prepared their food and what evidence we have for these practices. The exhibition brings together unique objects, some rarely on display to the public, from Cirencester as well as Silchester and across the Roman Empire including Pompeii, Rome, Athens and Tunisia. The exhibition also showcases artist Miranda Creswell’s Chop Marks, landscape drawings made with graphite on kitchen chopping boards. Corinium Museum Director, Amanda Hart, comments, “This is such a wonderful opportunity for the Museum to showcase a number of objects from a national museum that would otherwise not be seen by the public. We are so delighted to be partnering with the British Museum and UK Universities on this exciting exhibition.” It is curated by Dr Zena Kamash, Dr Erica Rowan, Dan Stansbie, Dr Lisa Lodwick and the Corinium Museum. The project team is also running a series of talks and hands-on workshops in conjunction with the exhibition, which continues until 5 July. Entry to the exhibition is free.

The museum is open Monday to Saturday, from 10am–4pm, and on Sunday, from 2pm–4pm.

Bacchus head at Corinium Museum

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Chestnutting by Kurt Jackson at Campden Gallery

until Sunday 26 Kurt Jackson: Foraging at Campden Gallery, Chipping Campden 01386 841555 / GL55 6AG / campdengallery.co.uk Jackson’s new collection of paintings is inspired by foraging. Richard Mabey has written an introduction to the exhibition and comments, “Why not leave wild food utterly to the birds and the slugs? My initial pleas are almost sensual and indulgent: interest, experience and, even on a small scale, adventure. Many wild foods are delicacies, most of them are still abundant and all of them are free. They require none of the rather tedious attention demanded by garden plants, and possess the additional attraction of having to be found.” until Sunday 26 Echoes in Enamel: From the Kitchen to the Factory at Museum in the Park, Stroud 01453 763394 / GL5 4AF / museuminthepark.org.uk This foyer showcase exhibition is the first instalment in artist Sue Brown’s World War One commemorative project, Echoes in Enamel. Brown is taking inspiration from collections items relating to World War One and using them to create new art works. This part of the project sees her interpretations of the museum’s photographs of female munitions workers at TH & J Daniels4

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in 1918. The resultant works are displayed alongside original artefacts and the museum hopes that the display will help the stories of these women come to life and encourage visitors to engage with the collections in a new way. from Monday 27 Timeless at Lansdown Gallery, Stroud 01453 767576 / GL5 1BB / landsdownhall.org 10 local artists explore the art of black and white photography. Each artist has been invited to show four pieces in black and white that represent them, their style and their approach to photography.

Confirmed exhibitors include Jonny Barratt, Sylvain Guenot, Ruth Davey, Fred Chance, James Kriszyk, Jessica Jackson and Lauren Seatter. There is also an interactive element to the exhibition, making it a fun opportunity for visitors to learn about, explore and participate in the art of black and white photography. The gallery is open daily, from 10am–5pm, and the exhibition continues until 3 May. throughout April Hatched, Matched, Dispatched – & Patched! at American Museum in Britain, Bath 01225 460503 / BA2 7BD / americanmuseum.org This exhibition brings together rare and historic textiles, such as quilts and costumes, that

commemorate family milestones. Among the quilts on display are examples made in response to a marriage or birth; others are mourning quilts, some dating from the American Civil War. Another textile treasure on display is a tablecloth from 1945, embroidered with the names of friends and colleagues of an American soldier who took part in the D-Day landings. His British fiancée stopped embroidering the cloth when she heard that he had died in combat: the stitched decoration remains unfinished, with the needle still pinned to the cloth. The exhibition also focuses on what was traditionally worn to mark these types of family milestones, with antique mourning garments, bridal gowns and christening robes. One of the costumes featured is the wedding dress worn in 1887 by Agnes Lucy Hughes, the first mother-inlaw of Wallis Simpson. The exhibition continues until 1 November. throughout April Bath: Buildings in Landscape at Museum of Bath Architecture, Bath 01225 333895 / BA1 5NA / museumofbatharchitecture.org.uk Historic views from the collections of Bath Preservation Trust and Bath Central Library explore the city and its setting. Standard admission charges apply. The exhibition continues until 26 November.

Bathscape – Beechen Cliff at Museum of Bath Architecture

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WHAT’S ON: Exhibitions & Auctions John, the gravitas of Duncan Grant, the Pop Art invention of Richard Hamilton and the intensity of Lucian Freud.

A Regatta on the Grand Canal by Canaletto

throughout April Being Caroline – A Second Self at Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Bath 01225 446865 / BA1 2BL / herschelmuseum.org.uk This exhibition explores the remarkable life of astronomer Caroline Herschel: her education, her singing career, her struggle to be a proper housekeeper for her brother, her reluctant forays into the social life of Bath and her extraordinary career as astronomer. It has been extended until Monday 18 May by popular demand. Herschel’s was the ultimate Cinderella story: she was rescued from a life of neglect and drudgery at home not by a handsome prince but by the kindness of her elder brother William. Disfigured by smallpox as a child, her father cautioned her ’against all thoughts of marrying’. In a more positive vein, it was also her father who introduced Caroline to the magic of stargazing. Standard admission charges apply. throughout April Gwen John to Lucian Freud at Holburne Museum, Bath 01225 388588 / BA2 4DB / holburne.org The Holburne Museum presents 32 Modern British art works specially selected by contemporary artist Dexter Dalwood. Linked by the theme of ’Home and The World’, this exhibition juxtaposes a confident sense of national identity with a yearning for exploration. Varied artistic approaches reveal the changing landscape of 20th century art: the boldness of Vanessa Bell, the introversion of Gwen

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throughout April Canaletto’s ’A Regatta on the Grand Canal’ and Beryl Cook: Intimate Relations at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath 01225 477233 / BA2 4AT / victoriagal.org.uk The Victoria Art Gallery, run by Bath & North East Somerset Council, is hosting one of the world’s most famous masterpieces: Canaletto’s A Regatta on the Grand Canal until 3 May. This was painted in c.1740 and depicts the annual carnival regatta in Venice. The much loved work is on tour from the National Gallery Collection in London and is travelling around the UK as the second painting in its Masterpiece Tour. The Victoria Art Gallery is displaying a selection of Bath views alongside A Regatta on the Grand Canal, looking at Canaletto’s influence on British art and the 18th century enthusiasm for view painting.

Running concurrently, Intimate Relations 4

EXHIBITION

Richard THORN

March 28th - April 18th 9.30am to 5.00pm except Sundays

t: (0)1608652255 info@johndaviesgallery.com www.johndaviesgallery.com The Old Dairy Plant - Moreton-in-Marsh - GL56 9NQ Catalogue on request £15 (inc.p&p)

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is a major retrospective exhibition devoted to Beryl Cook (1926–2008), one of Britain’s best loved artists. From working as a pub landlady to her emergence as a self-taught artist, Cook become one of the great social commentators of our time.

This exhibition displays more than 50 oil paintings encompassing her entire painting career, from her first painting, Hangover, painted in 1962 to Tommy Dancing, one of the last paintings completed before her death in May 2008. While her subject matter of ordinary people enjoying themselves remained fairly constant throughout her career, the exhibition highlights her development from the angular Art Deco inspired early work to the fuller, more rounded later works. It is co-curated by the Victoria Art Gallery and the Alexander Gallery, the Bath based publishers of Cook’s limited edition prints. A number of paintings recently discovered within her extended family are also being shown in public for the first time. The gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am–5pm, and on Sunday, from 1:30pm–5pm. throughout April Still Small Voice: British Biblical Art in a Secular Age (1850–2014) at The Wilson, Cheltenham 01242 237431 / GL50 3JT / cheltenhammuseum.org.uk This major exhibition at The Wilson, Cheltenham’s recently extended art gallery and museum, features works by 14 of the 20th century’s most eminent artists. All of the works on display are from the

Still Small Voice at The Wilson

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Ahmanson Collection, on loan from California. The exhibition, which is being shown for the first time in the UK, represents an exceptional opportunity to view 36 works by British artists who explored the role of Christianity in visual art throughout the century.

It explores a diverse range of media, including paintings, drawings, prints, and sculpture, by some of this country’s most important and best loved 20th century artists such as Stanley Spencer, Eric Gill, Jacob Epstein, Barbara Hepworth, Edward Burra and Graham Sutherland. The gallery is open daily from 9:30am–5:15pm and admission is free.

The exhibition continues until 3 May. throughout April Platinum: master prints from 31 Studio at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham 01249 730459 / SN15 2LG / nationaltrust.org.uk Striking, unusual and famous images feature in this exhibition that celebrates the work of the master print makers ’31 Studio’. This collection of special platinum prints include important and sometimes iconic images shot by renowned photographers over the last 150 years. Made by Paul and Max Caffell, the platinum developing process brings out even more of the subtlety of the negative and creates the richest and most permanent of photographic images. Featured photographers include Alvin Langdon Coburn, Bill Brandt, Bryan Adams, David Bailey, Frederick Evans, Jacques Henri Lartigue, Linda McCartney and Martin Parr. throughout April Spring Exhibition at The Albion Gallery, Chipping Norton OX7 5AD / 01608 238020 / albiongallery.co.uk The Albion Gallery, which specialises in contemporary British art, celebrates its first birthday next month. It has already made a name for itself in the local area and further afield, with owners Steven and John always happy to talk about the art and artists over a cup of coffee. The gallery’s Spring Exhibition features celebrated artists such as Mike Bernard, Judith

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WHAT’S ON: Exhibitions & Auctions him document a series of new building works and projects. His commissions reflected the newfound wealth and assurance of the British nation: the houses, bridges, churches and castles he recorded marked out Britain as the new Venice and conveyed a sense of self-confidence as Britons sought cultural inspiration not just from the Mediterranean but also from their own history.

This is the first time that these paintings have been gathered together. Admission charges apply.

Merlin’s Cave, Tintagel Castle

by Judith Bridgland at The Albion Gallery

Bridgland and Helen Tabor. The Albion Gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday, from 10am– 5:30pm, and on Sunday, from 11am–5pm. throughout April Biennial Art Paper Fibre at New Brewery Arts, Cirencester 01285 657181 / GL7 1JL / newbreweryarts.org.uk The French Association Chaîne de Papier presents an exhibition of handmade 2D and 3D sculptural works exploring themes of transformation, metamorphosis and profound memory. The exhibition shows that paper art can be an environmentally friendly fine art form. Artists can communicate ideas, philosophies, emotions and ideals using basic natural plant fibres and recycled materials. throughout April Canaletto: Celebrating Britain at Compton Verney 01926 645500 / CV35 9HZ / comptonverney.org.uk This important exhibition features paintings and drawings which Canaletto created between 1746 and 1755, when he chose to celebrate the latest achievements of British architecture and engineering. Collectively, these paintings illustrate Canaletto’s nine year stay in Britain which saw

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throughout April Early Spring Exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston on Stour 01608 664411 / CV36 4AJ / thestourgallery.co.uk This exhibition at The Stour Gallery features Simon Pooley with selected gallery artists working in Cornwall. This is the eighth exhibition of Pooley’s work to be shown here and reflects the gallery’s particular emphasis on Cornish and West Country work, especially from the Penwith and Newlyn Societies. As a former architect, Pooley knows what can be visually dispensed with whilst ensuring that the structure of a painting still holds.

His ability to capture ’the remembered’, whether landscape or seascape, the juxtapositions of colour and form, or the incidents of time and place, make him one of the few contemporary painters whose work is never formulaic. The gallery is open Monday to Saturday (closed Thursday), from 10am–5:30pm.

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Passed the Ancient Pine

by Simon Pooley at The Stour Gallery

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Performing AApril rts Thursday 2 Richard Herring live comedy at Komedia, Bath 0845 293 8480 / BA1 1EP / komedia.co.uk After covering weighty issues like death, love, religion and spam javelins, ’The King of Edinburgh’ is in a frivolous mood with his show, Lord Of The Dance Settee. Suitable for ages 16+.

Thursday 2 Michael Messer, Manish Pingle and Gurdain Rayatt live music at Pound Arts, Corsham 01249 701628 / SN13 9HX / poundarts.org.uk Virtuoso slide and steel guitarists Michael Messer and Manish Pingle come together to present a musical exploration of eastern and western sounds. Formed in 2013 after meeting at a festival in Mumbai, the duo seamlessly blend Delta blues with Hindustani classical music. Here, they perform alongside the tabla player Gurdain Rayatt.

Twelve Angry Men at Theatre Royal, Bath

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Thursday 2 String concert at Malmesbury Abbey 01666 826666 / SN16 0AA / malmesburyabbey.info Four musicians from The Royal Academy of Music, London, perform unaccompanied suites

by J.S. Bach for violin and cello and then Olivier Messaien’s Quartet for the End of Time. until Saturday 4 Twelve Angry Men at Theatre Royal, Bath 01225 448844 / BA1 1ET / theatreroyal.org.uk This powerful new production of Reginald Rose’s courtroom thriller, Twelve Angry Men, arrives in Bath following a record breaking West End run.

Inside a locked jury room, a jury has murder on their minds and a life in their hands as they decide the fate of a young delinquent accused of killing his father. But what appears to be an open and shut case soon becomes a huge dilemma as prejudices and preconceived ideas about the accused, the trial and each other turn the tables right up until the climax. Tom Conti, who is best known for starring roles in films such as Merry Christmas Mr Lawrence and Shirley Valentine, reprises the role of juror number 8.

Wednesday 8 Stacey Kent live music at Royal Spa Centre & Town Hall, Leamington Spa CV32 4AT / 01926 334418 / warwickdc.gov.uk/royalspacentre The American singer Stacey Kent brings her new album, The Changing Lights, to Royal Leamington Spa. This album places Kent’s love for Brazilian music centre-stage, featuring Bossa Nova classics like How Insensitive alongside originals by the songwriting team of Jim Tomlinson and the acclaimed novelist Kazuo Ishiguro. So far, The Changing Lights tour has seen Kent perform in nearly 30 countries on five continents, and her limited number of UK tour

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WHAT’S ON: Performing Arts escalate into total mayhem. This comedy by Pavel Pryazhko, translated by Sasha Dugdale, has been described as a ’phenomenon’ of Russian New Writing. Pryazhko’s plays have been staged in Russia, Belarus, Ukraine and all over Eastern Europe, and he has gained something of a cult following. Absurd, fearless and funny, he examines every area of post-Soviet life with a merciless eye.

Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre

dates provide a rare opportunity for British fans to hear her performing live in concert.

Thursday 9 – Saturday 11 Hamlet! at The Bear Pit Theatre, Stratfordupon-Avon 01789 403416 / CV37 6LU / thebearpit.org.uk CoIn Theatre Company’s Hamlet! examines human nature through the lens of Shakespeare’s rough black humour, and introduces a clown stunt in a new take on the classic play. The international cast invites you to join an incredible fight against responsibility, guilt and morality.

How can we deal with these terms? As the first line of the play says, we have to ask of our characters: “Who’s there?” until Saturday 11 The Harvest at Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal, Bath 01225 448844 / BA1 1ET / theatreroyal.org.uk It’s harvest time and Egor, Valerii, Ira and Lubya are enjoying some hard graft in the orchard, picking apples and packing them into boxes. But, as the day progresses, what begin as tiny problems

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from Saturday 11 Love’s Sacrifice at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratfordupon-Avon 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk Struck by love at first sight, the Duke of Pavia has married the beautiful Bianca. But he’s not the only one who loves her. Unknown to him, his best friend Fernando has also fallen for Bianca and with each day that passes he finds it harder to conceal his true feelings. While the Duke is unaware of his friend’s dilemma, his sister soon realises what is happening. Racked with jealousy by her own desire for Fernando, she begins to manipulate her brother, encouraging him to act against his friend.

With echoes of Shakespeare’s Othello, John Ford’s rarely performed play is a thrilling revenge tragedy powered by the destructive force of unrequited love.

Monday 12 – Saturday 18 Blood Brothers at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham 01242 572573 / GL50 1HQ / everymantheatre.org.uk Written by Willy Russell, the award winning musical Blood Brothers tells the moving tale of twins who are separated at birth and grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. The score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and Tell Me It’s Not True. This production stars Marti Pellow as The Narrator and Maureen Nolan in the iconic role of Mrs Johnstone.

Tuesday 14 Toyah and The Humans at Gloucester Guildhall 01452 503050 / GL1 1NS / gloucester.gov.uk/guildhall The Humans are an innovative, contemporary rock band comprising Toyah Willcox, Bill Rieflin4

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Thursday 16 – Saturday 18 Carousel at The Theatre, Chipping Norton 01608 642350 / OX7 5NL / chippingnortontheatre.co.uk The Chipping Norton Amateur Operatic Society returns to The Theatre with this Rodgers and Hammerstein favourite. The score includes classic songs such as If I Loved You, Mister Snow, June is Bustin’ Out All Over and You’ll Never Walk Alone.

The story revolves around carousel barker Billy Bigelow, whose romance with millworker Julie Jordan comes at the price of both their jobs. He attempts a robbery to provide for Julie and their unborn child; after it goes wrong, he is given a chance to make things right.

Friday 17 Ladies GoDiva live music at The Playhouse, Cheltenham 01242 522852 / GL53 7HG / cheltplayhouse.org.uk Ladies GoDiva are an outstanding triumvirate in the mould of Fascinating Aida: glamorous ’old school’ divas with big voices and even bigger personalities. Performing original songs penned

by Helen Goldwyn, the trio love to have fun and mix a modern sound with a vintage feel.

Toyah at Gloucester Guildhall

and Chris Wong. The group was formed in 2007 after Willcox was invited by the Estonian ambassador to tour Estonia. Experimental yet accessible, the band reflects the distinctly different musical backgrounds and life experiences of its members: its music has been described as ’Tori Amos meets Trent Reznor’. The current tour sees the first UK live performances of material from last year’s Strange Tales album which was met with praise from fans old and new. Over 14s only.

Thursday 16 The ELO Experience at Wyvern Theatre, Swindon 01793 524481 / SN1 1QN / wyverntheatre.org.uk 40 years on and the music of Jeff Lynne and the Electric Light Orchestra is still regularly played on radio stations around the world. The Mr Blue Sky tour stops at Swindon for one night only, performing these enduring songs.

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Saturday 18 Declan Zapala live music at The Acoustic Café, Aston Pottery, near Bampton OX18 2BT / 01993 852031 / astonpottery.co.uk After graduating with distinction from the Royal College of Music, Declan Zapala has become established as a leading figure in crossover percussive/classical guitar. His YouTube video of his composition Crystal received close to a quarter of a million views when it went viral at the end of 2013, and his video of Broken Rhapsody was championed by many of his peers on social media sites.

Saturday 18 Hazel O’Connor live music at Sundial Theatre, Cirencester 01285 654228 / GL7 1XA / sundial-theatre.co.uk A very special evening with award winning singersongwriter Hazel O’Connor, joined here by Clare

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WHAT’S ON: Performing Arts Hirst (Bellestars, Communards, David Bowie) on sax and Sarah Fisher (Eurythmics) on keyboards.

Expect a soulful exploration of O’Connor’s portfolio, the old and the new.

Saturday 18 Sean Taylor live music at Under the Edge Arts Centre, Wotton under Edge 07791 323869 / GL12 7HW / utea.org.uk Sean Taylor is one of the hottest new names in the UK blues/acoustic scene, frequently compared with John Martyn and Tom Waits. The past couple of years has seen his profile rocket, with UK and European tours and festival performances at Glastonbury, Cambridge Folk Festival, Celtic Connections and many others. He has toured Holland, Switzerland, Australia, France and Ireland, and has opened for artists such as John Fogerty, Neville Brothers, Tony Joe White and Eric Bibb.

Sunday 19 Maddy Prior live music at the Tithe Barn, Bishop’s Cleeve 0844 576 2210 / GL52 8LU / cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk A legend of British music, Maddy Prior has built her career on exploring various musical avenues. Her latest album, 3 For Joy, is no exception. Together with new musical partners Giles Lewin (Carnival Band) and young accordion player Hannah James, Prior performs the music of England, the British Isles and Eastern Europe, all delivered in her own unique style.

Sunday 19 The Forget-Me-Not Concert at Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham 01242 258002 / GL51 6HE / bacontheatre.co.uk A gala evening of entertainment, featuring artists from the world of opera, musical theatre, dance and television as well as the pupils of Dean Close School and the Choristers of Tewkesbury Abbey. This is the third Forget-Me-Not Concert following previous events in St. George’s Chapel Windsor and the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre in Guildford. So far, £34,000 has been raised for the Alzheimer’s Society.

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Sunday 19 Renaissance live music at The Assembly, Leamington Spa 0844 854 1358 / CV31 3NF / leamingtonassembly.com Renaissance is best known for the 1978 hit Northern Lights and the classic albums Scheherazade and Turn Of The Cards. Last year, the band released Symphony Of Light which was dedicated to its guitarist Michael Dunford, who died in 2012. Renaissance is still led by Annie Haslam and its music, although termed ’progressive rock’, actually encompasses classical, folk and jazz as well as rock.

Sunday 19 Ray Quinn live music at Stratford ArtsHouse, Stratford-upon-Avon 01789 207100 / CV37 6LU / stratfordartshouse.co.uk Ray Quinn’s platinum selling 2007 album, My Way Back, made him the youngest artist ever4

Ray Quinn at Stratford ArtsHouse

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to have an album release without releasing a single. After this, Quinn took a break from the music scene to pursue a career in musical theatre. Following a successful run in many musicals, both touring and in the West End, he is now back with a brand new album encompassing well known classics as well as original tracks written by Linda Lewis. All tracks are sung in Quinn’s trademark swing style.

Wednesday 22 Lee Nelson live comedy at Cheltenham Town Hall 0844 576 2210 / GL52 1QA / cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk The highly rated comedian Lee Nelson is back with a brand new show: Suited and Booted. Suitable for age 16+.

Wednesday 22 A Strange Wild Song at The Theatre, Chipping Norton 01608 642350 / OX7 5NL / chippingnortontheatre.co.uk A touching story about finding light in the darkest of places. In northern France in the Second World War, three children encounter a lost American soldier. When the soldier’s camera is unearthed decades later, his grandson searches for meaning through the photographs inside. He discovers a

A Strange Wild Song at The Theatre, Chipping Norton

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Lee Nelson at Cheltenham Town Hall

surreal world of childhood and imagination, as fragments of a half-developed war explode into the present day. Critically acclaimed Rhum and Clay present a darkly comic story told in a visually unique and highly inventive style.

Wednesday 22 – Saturday 25 There Goes The Bride at Arc Theatre, Trowbridge 0845 299 0476 / BA14 0ES /arctheatre.org.uk It’s the morning of Judy Westerby’s wedding when unfortunately her harassed advertising executive father Tim gets a nasty bang on the head. The whole family is then caught up in the confusion of Tim’s concussion which is not helped by the arrival of the prospective father in law from Australia. Will the wedding be abandoned or will Tim be fit to lead his daughter down the aisle? from Wednesday 22 The Real Thing at Loft Theatre, Leamington Spa 0844 493 4938 / CV31 3AA / loft-theatre.co.uk An intelligent and witty play

by Tom Stoppard about love, addressing a big idea: what,

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WHAT’S ON: Performing Arts in art or life, is ’the real thing’? Charlotte is an actress who has been appearing in a play about marriage, written by her playwright husband, Henry. Max, her leading man, is also married to an actress, Annie, who is a political activist. Both marriages are on the point of collapse because Henry and Annie have fallen in love. But... is it the real thing?

Thursday 23 Parnassius Piano Duo at Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham 0844 576 2210 / GL52 3JE / cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk Simon Callaghan and Hiroaki Takenouchi met in 2003 at the Royal College of Music and have developed a thriving duo partnership. Their programme here includes Clementi’s Duet in E flat op.14 no.3, Brahms’ Variations on a Theme of Schumann op.23, Ravel’s Ma mère l’oya (Mother Goose) and Schubert’s Sonata in C D812, Grand Duo. The concert is part of the 2014 –15 Cheltenham Chamber Music Series.

George Fenton, and 1948, composer Ann Carbutt); The Merchant of Venice (1987, composer Guy Woolfenden); and Henry IV (2014/15, composer Paul Englishby). Rufus Wainwright’s setting of Shakespeare’s Sonnet 29 is also part of the programme as is music from the forthcoming summer season, interspersed with speeches and extracts from Shakespeare performed by actors who have a close association with the RSC. The concert is directed by Ryan McBryde. from Monday 27 To Kill A Mockingbird at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham 01242 572573 / GL50 1HQ / everymantheatre.org.uk Set in the USA’s deep South, Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize winning novel sees racial injustice envelop a small town community. Through courage and compassion, lawyer Atticus Finch seeks the truth, and his feisty daughter, Scout – a young girl 4

Saturday 25 CoCo and the Butterfields at Prema, Uley 01453 860703 / GL11 5SS / prema.org.uk CoCo and the Butterfields sprang to life in September 2011 as a humble folk trio but nowadays can be more accurately described as a five-strong explosion onto the UK music scene.

Their ascent spans early days spent busking in their hometown of Canterbury to headlining Rome’s largest unsigned music festival. The lineup comprises voice, guitar, violin, double bass, banjo and beatbox: in combination, the sound is inimitable and radiates energy.

Sunday 26 Shakespeare’s Birthday concert at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) is celebrating Shakespeare’s 451st birthday with a special ’Birthday Bash’ concert at 4pm.

This features music written for previous RSC productions including Henry V (1951, composer Leslie Bridgewater); Othello (1999, composer

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To Kill a Mockingbird at Everyman Theatre

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Death of a Salesman at Royal Shakespeare Theatre

on the cusp of adulthood – brings new hope to a neighbourhood in turmoil. This enchanting production from London’s award winning Regent’s Park Theatre captures the warmth and poignancy of this classic tale.

Thursday 30 The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra performs Tchaikovsky at Cheltenham Town Hall 0844 576 2210 / GL52 1QA / cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk This all-Tchaikovsky concert features two of the composer’s most popular works, the Piano Concerto No.1 in B flat minor, Op.23, and Symphony No.6 in B minor, Pathétique, Op.74.

Russian pianist Nikolai Rubinstein considered the Piano Concerto No.1 “bad, trivial and vulgar”, but most now relish its deep Romanticism, with its sweeping opening, soulful second movement and thrilling finale. It is played here by the highly regarded pianist Martin Roscoe. The evening concludes with Tchaikovsky’s last and greatest symphony, the Pathétique, which he named for the word’s true meaning, pathos. Garry Walker conducts the renowned Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

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throughout April Death of a Salesman at Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratfordupon-Avon 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk Arthur Miller’s 1949 play, Death of a Salesman, is considered one of the greatest American tragedies ever written. In the land of the free, each man is in charge of his own destiny. Willy Loman knows and cherishes this truth.

After a life of honest hard work, it’s Willy’s birthright to retire with his loving wife and watch his two athletic, handsome sons continue his legacy. Yet as old age begins to take hold and retirement beckons, Willy’s dream seems further away than ever.

Decades of graft have somehow failed to translate into wealth and his eldest son refuses to follow the path his father has chosen for him. As actions buried in his past re-surface, Willy struggles to reconcile his long cherished dream with the life he has actually lived. This RSC production celebrates the centenary of Miller’s birth. Antony Sher and Alex Hassell play Willy Loman and his son Biff and Harriet Walter is Willy’s loyal wife Linda.

Hot air ballooning over Westonbirt Arboretum

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WHAT’S ON: Performing arts / events

Events April Wednesday 1 Family Cooking course at The Bertinet Kitchen, Bath 01225 445531 / BA1 2QR / thebertinetkitchen.com A half-day (10am–1pm), hands-on, family cooking workshop at which you can spend some quality time with your child (age 7–17) whilst you both learn some new tricks-of-thetrade in the kitchen. Extra child places are available and the course isn’t limited to parents: grannies, aunts, uncles or older siblings are also welcome. The format of the course is the same as in The Bertinet Kitchen’s adult classes, with a practical cookery session followed by lunch (without the wine). The price per two family members is £190.

Saturday 4 Hot Air Ballooning over Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury 0117 947 1050 / GL8 8QS / ballooning-network.co.uk A morning hot air balloon flight is due to head over Westonbirt, providing an amazing view of the arboretum from the air. The flight lasts for approximately one hour, with the whole outing expected to take between three and four hours.

Other locations and dates (from March to October) are also available. until Monday 6 Bath Comedy Festival 2015 bathcomedy.com Bath Comedy Festival, now in its seventh year, continues with its programme of international comedy and cabaret. Participants include Terry Jones, Arthur Smith, Fred Macaulay, Bec Hill, Marcel Lucont, Danny Buckler, John Moloney, Kirsty Newton and Jess Robinson.

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Paxford Point-to-Point

Monday 6 Paxford Point-to-Point GL55 6XS / northcotswoldhunt.co.uk/point-to-point Easter Monday marks the ever popular North Cotswold Hunt Point-to-Point at Bank Farm in Paxford. Gates open at 10:30am and there’s everything for a fun family day out: the racing, a hound parade, food and drink stalls and country trade stands.

Monday 6 Spring Craft Fayre at Stoneleigh Abbey, Kenilworth 01926 858535 / CV8 2LF / stoneleighabbey.org This event takes place in the Riding School at Stoneleigh Abbey, from 10am–4pm, and stalls include crafts, cards and bric-a-brac. Admission to the fayre is free or a grounds charge applies if you would also like to explore the gardens.

Saturday 11 Making 100 Paper Sculptures workshop at Atelier Textile Studio, Stroud 01453 765248 / GL5 2HT / atelierstroud.co.uk / sitselect.org This one day workshop (10am–4pm) is led by Fionna Hesketh. Participants can explore and extend ideas, creating small ’sculptures’ using paper and card as the sole medium. You are invited to bring your own image/object as inspiration4

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for a starting point. Please also bring your own cutting mat if you have one and anything that can be used as a tool for mark-making.

Paper and card are provided. Places are £55 per person, with tea/coffee provided.

Saturday 11 Christine Roberts and Katherine Kirkland book signing at Octavia’s Bookshop, Cirencester 01285 650677 / GL7 2AA / octaviasbookshop.co.uk The author and illustrator of The Very Shy Picture Book are at Octavia’s Bookshop for readings, signings and activities for the under 6s, from 11am onwards.

Sunday 12 Prescott Bike Festival at Prescott Hill Climb, near Cheltenham 07005 968687 / GL52 9RD / prescottbikefestival.co.uk Often hailed as the ’Start of the Season’ motorcycle festival, this is an essential day out for all motorcycling enthusiasts. The 2015 festival features large displays of historic, modern and race bikes, plus a Paddock Specials Show ’n’ Tell area, motorcycle manufacturers, dealer zone, motorcycle clubs, demo areas, passenger ride experiences, live music, stunt show and hundreds of trade stands. Unlike a static bike show, Prescott

Book signing at Octavia’s Bookshop

gives you the unique opportunity to get up close to lots of bikes and watch them run the historic hill climb course. Gates open at 8:30am, track starts at 10am and the festival continues until 5pm.

Advance tickets are available online. All proceeds from the event go to The Nationwide Association of Blood Bikes and Severn Freewheelers.

Sunday 12 Open afternoon at Coleshill Watermill, near Swindon 01793 762209 / SN6 7PT / nationaltrust.org.uk Have you ever wondered exactly how grain is turned into flour? You can visit the restored

Prescott Bike Festival at Prescott Hill Climb

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WHAT’S ON: EVENTS working mill at Coleshill on this open afternoon to find out more. You can also buy flour to take home with you along with a recipe leaflet to help you rustle up homemade loaves, biscuits or cakes. Admission charges apply or entry is free for National Trust members.

Tuesday 14 NGS Garden Open Day at Barnsley House, near Cirencester 01285 740000 / GL7 5EE / barnsleyhouse.com The famous gardens at Barnsley House were designed by the late Rosemary Verey and feature a Laburnum walk, knot garden, temple and potager. Entry is £5 per person with all money collected on the day going to the charities supported by the National Gardens Scheme.

Thursday 16 – Sunday 19 The Cotswolds Art & Antique Dealers’ Association Fair at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock OX20 1TA / 07831 850 544 / cadafair.com The CADA Fair returns to the elegant setting of Blenheim Palace for the fourth annual event. This year, 29 exhibitors are taking part, showcasing the very best of fine art and antiques spanning furniture, carpets and textiles, ceramics, clocks and barometers, silver, jewellery, paintings and sculpture, garden ornaments and many other decorative objects. For further details, see our What’s On feature on pages 45–48.

Friday 17 TED-style Talk at Wootton Village Hall, near Woodstock woottontalks.co.uk TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) is a global set of conferences under the slogan ’ideas worth spreading’. Speakers are given a maximum of 18 minutes to present their ideas in the most innovative and engaging ways they can. TED was founded in 1984 as a one-off event and its annual conference began in 1990, in Monterey, California. TED events are now held throughout the U.S. and in Europe and Asia, offering live streaming of the talks. They address a wide range

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of topics within the research and practice of science and culture – and there are over 1,000 talks on the TED website. Past presenters include Bill Clinton, Jane Goodall, Al Gore, Richard Dawkins, Bill Gates, Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin, and many Nobel prizewinners.

For the second Wootton TED-style evening, three speakers present talks on a wide range of topics: Trudie Lang, who is Professor of Global Health Research within the Nuffield Department of Medicine at Oxford University and Director of the Global Health Network, talks on a topic entitled From malaria to ebola: difficult research in difficult places. Arthur Stockwin, who is a world authority on Japanese affairs, takes as his topic Will Japan and China go to war? And Jonathon Reynolds, who is a leading international expert in the study of the retail sector and Associate Professor in Retail Marketing at the Saïd Business School, Oxford, presents a talk entitled I shop therefore I am: why we need shops. This event is highly recommended.

Friday 17 & Saturday 18 To Kill a Songbird murder mystery evenings at Bampton Village Hall 01993 851876 / bamptonopera.org These murder mystery evenings are in aid of two Bampton institutions: the library and Bampton Classical Opera.

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Polperro, Cornwall by Hendrik Jan Wolter, presented by Kyffin Gallery at CADA Fair

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Bubble Zone, Lollypop Land, Fluorescent Park, the Twilight zone and the Rainbow Road.

The party starts at 7pm when the sun goes down. The event is not just about running – it’s all about the ’glow’, so runners are advised to come suitably prepared with head torches, glow sticks and high visibility clothing. Registration is required.

Glow in the Park after-dark run in Royal Victoria Park

Friday 17 & Saturday 18 Gardens Illustrated Festival, Malmesbury gardensfestival.com Taking place on the evening of Friday 17 and all day on Saturday 18, this inaugural Gardens Illustrated Festival features a programme of talks, garden tours and photography and garden art workshops. You can buy plants, garden furniture and many other gardening products from some of the country’s finest nurseries and specialist suppliers. Guest experts at the festival include Dan Pearson, Alys Fowler and Sarah Raven.

Saturday 18 Glow in the Park after-dark run in Royal Victoria Park, Bath BA1 2LZ / glowinthepark.co.uk Glow in the Park runs are a series of after-dark 5km fun runs, offering a safe environment to experience the thrill of night running. Following the success of Glow in the Park at Bath Racecourse last year, the event returns to the city but this time at Royal Victoria Park. This is a bigger venue, with capacity for 5,000 fun runners of all ages.

Participants can run, jog, walk or even dance their way around the park, through music and light shows in the Glow Course. Other zones include the Time Tunnel Glow Zone, the Retro Zone, the UV

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Saturday 18 Classic Virgins experience day at Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon 01926 641188 / CV35 0BJ / heritage-motor-centre.co.uk This day is designed to encourage and support potential British classic car owners. Experts deliver guidance on the theory of classic car ownership such as car club support, rallies and social activities, facilities required, finance, insurance and how to choose your classic.

A hands-on workshop then focuses on the basics of looking after classic cars (lubrication, ignition

Classic Virgins experience day at Heritage Motor Centre

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WHAT’S ON: EVENTS and fuel maintenance) and the afternoon is spent being driven in classic cars on the open road.

Saturday 18 Willow Garden Structures workshop at Waterperry Gardens, near Wheatley 01844 339226 / OX33 1JZ / waterperrygardens.co.uk You can learn how to use natural willow stems to create structures such as plant supports, trellises and ornamental hurdles.

The workshop is led by willow-weaving expert Helen Lomberg. During the day, you should be able to complete two or three structures to take home to your garden. The workshop runs from 10am–4:30pm and places are £125 per person. Advance booking is required.

Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 Daffodil Society National Show 2015 at Coughton Court, Alcester 01789 400777 / B49 5JA / nationaltrust.org.uk The Daffodil Society returns to Coughton Court for its National Show, with hundreds of exhibits, new varieties and experts on hand to answer questions.

You can also see the rare Throckmorton daffodils in the award winning Throckmorton family gardens.

Sunday 19 Creating Perfect Sugar Roses workshop at Farncombe Estate, near Broadway 0333 456 8580 / WR12 7LJ / farncombecourses.co.uk This class teaches you the skills to create lifelike sugar roses, including veining, distressing, shading and layering of petals. The workshop runs from 9:30am–4:30pm and is suitable for students of all levels of experience. Places are £129 per person.

Sunday 19 Fritillary Sunday, Ducklington 01993 776625 / OX29 7UT The snake’s head fritillary (Fritillaria meleagris) grows in abundance in a 10 acre meadow near St Bartholomew’s Church in Ducklington. On one day each year, the meadow is open to the general

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Waterperry Gardens

public so that you can see the fritillaries at the height of their flowering season. There is also a plant stall and refreshments are available in the village hall.

Sunday 19 Fixtures at Stratford Racecourse, Stratford-upon-Avon 01789 267949 / CV37 9SE / stratfordracecourse.net Stratford Racecourse is one of the country’s leading small summer jumps racecourses. Each year, it plays host to 18 fixtures between March and October. On race days, visitors can picnic in the centre of the course whilst enjoying the racing. There is free admission for under 18s as well as free children’s entertainment at most of the summer meetings.

Monday 20 Wine Tasting: More Prizewinning Wines at Chapel Arts Centre, Bath 01225 461700 / BA1 1QR / chapelarts.org Wines’ prizes are awarded by small groups of experienced wine professionals after blind tastings. Notes and scores are compared and then the winners emerge. These competitions help consumers and also keep producers on4

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their toes. This tasting features only prizewinning wines, some from lesser known producers and some from well known brands. You start with a sparkling wine and finish with something sweet, with several whites and reds in between. The event runs from 7:30pm–9:30pm and tickets (in advance) are £18.

Monday 20 The Medici and their Artists talk at Blockley Decorative and Fine Art Society, near Moretonin-Marsh GL56 9BY / blockleydfas.org As patrons, the Medici family played a key role in the development of Florentine renaissance art. They used art to express their wealth, power, piety and civic pride, but were also discerning and innovative patrons and collectors, often forming close relationships with the artists they employed. This lecture, given by Dr Paula Nuttall, looks at the works they commissioned, including Brunelleschi’s San Lorenzo, Fra Angelico’s frescos at San Marco, and the magnificent Medici Palace, with its glittering Chapel of the Magi by Benozzo Gozzoli. Dr Nuttall lectures for the Courtauld Institute, Christie’s Education, the Art Fund, the National Gallery and NADFAS. Tuesday 21 Spring Styling floristry course at Painswick Rococo Garden, Painswick 01452 813204 / GL6 6TH / rococogarden.org.uk This day course is led by professional florist

Spring Grand Sale at Sudeley Castle

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Sabine Darrall. Following a walk around the gardens, she discusses colour, texture, balance and form whilst demonstrating the best techniques for designing and constructing floral compositions.

You then create two designs and a series of vignettes. Places are £150 per person to include all flowers, materials and refreshments. Early booking is recommended since places are limited: email school@sabinedarrall.co.uk. from Wednesday 22 Cheltenham Poetry Festival 01242 522852 / cheltenhampoetryfest.co.uk The fifth Cheltenham Poetry Festival takes as its theme the environment and the natural world.

The programme spans comedy, hip hop, bands, drama and children’s workshops as well as readings by internationally acclaimed poets such as Sean O’Brien, Claire Trevien, Tim Liardet, Martyn Crucefix, Stephen James, Charles Bennett, Jo Bell and Wendy Klein. The festival continues until Sunday 3 May. Thursday 23 – Sunday 26 Spring Grand Sale at Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe 01242 604244 / GL54 5JD / sudeleycastle.co.uk The Spring Grand Sale is now in its 18th year at Sudeley Castle. It is set in a luxurious marquee and is a great place to find furniture for indoors and out, decorative accessories, gifts and a selection of fashion. The event helps raise funds for the charity Against Breast Cancer. There is free entry for children aged under 16. For further details, see our Highlighted Charity Event on page 88.

Thursday 23 – Sunday 26 Chipping Norton Literary Festival 01608 642350 / chiplitfest.com The four day line-up also includes talks by crime writer M.C. Beaton; bestselling author S.J. Watson; comedy writer, actress and novelist Helen Lederer; and The Times’ Chief Sports Correspondent, Matt Dickinson.

For further details, see our What’s On feature on page 51.

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WHAT’S ON: EVENTS Thursday 23 – Sunday 26 Shakespeare’s Birthday celebrations at venues in Stratford-upon-Avon shakespeare.org.uk Stratford’s tradition of marking the bard’s birthday (23 April) dates back more than 100 years. The annual celebrations bring together residents and visitors with people from the worlds of diplomacy, theatre, literature and academia in a vibrant mix of pageantry and performance. Saturday’s events include a grand Birthday Procession through the town, finishing with the laying of flowers on Shakespeare’s grave at Holy Trinity Church. You can also enjoy free street entertainment and special activities at venues across the town, including the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, the RSC and many local businesses. from Friday 24 Wotton Arts Festival, Wotton under Edge wottonartsfestival.org.uk The festival’s aim is to encourage artistic talent, both local and from further afield. As a family

friendly festival, it encompasses events such as circus skills workshops for children, professional recitals, schools’ concerts, theatrical productions, an art exhibition by local artists and film and photographic projects. As always, it opens on Saturday 25 April with the traditional St George’s Day toast.

Saturday 25 Lottie Prentice book signing at Octavia’s Bookshop, Cirencester 01285 650677 / GL7 2AA / octaviasbookshop.co.uk A fun event for 0–7 year olds to mark the launch of A Tale of Ted, the debut book by three-day event rider Lottie Prentice. She is at the bookshop signing books on the day and there are special A Tale of Ted party bags for every child. Prentice teamed up with friend and artist Lorna Gray to produce this beautifully written and illustrated book. A Tale of Ted features Prentice’s star horse Ted (competed as Father Jerry), a beautiful grey horse who loves to gallop and jump big fences. He is also very,4

OLD WORLD WINE EVENING T H U R SDAY 21 S T M AY

Hosted by Francesco Corpas of La Rioja Alta, in association with Armit Wines.

Take a guided tour through an exquisite selection of the finest Spanish wines, paired with a bespoke six-course tasting menu.

£ 95.0 0 PE R PE R S ON To book your place, please call 01451 493 310 or visit www.lowerslaughter.co.uk for more information

Lower Slaughter Manor, Lower Slaughter, Gloucestershire GL54 2HP Tel: 01451 493 310 | info@lowerslaughter.co.uk | w w w.lowerslaughter.co.uk

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Alexander McCall Smith at Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival

very naughty. He regularly bites the farrier and terrifies the vet, and his antics don’t stop there…

Join Rhino the Jack Russell, Barney the owl and the sheep next door, and discover what happens when Ted begins his naughtiest act yet.

Saturday 25 Pottery Workshop at Whichford Pottery, near Shipston-on-Stour CV36 5PG / 01608 684416 / whichfordpottery.com Whichford regularly holds pottery workshops which are designed to be fun as well as educational, with no experience necessary. You work in small groups and are taught throwing and hand-building techniques by two of Whichford’s highly skilled potters.

The workshop runs from 9am–1:30pm and places are £75 per person, to include all tuition, materials, firing, tea/ coffee and homemade cake. Advance booking is required (early booking is recommended as places are limited to 10). The drying and firing of your creations take approximately six weeks.

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from Saturday 25 Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival 01789 470185 / stratlitfest.co.uk There is nothing like a dame, and this year’s Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival is hosting events featuring no fewer than four: actress Dame Harriet Walter, best selling author Dame Jacqueline Wilson, historical biographer Dame Antonia Fraser and web supremo Dame Wendy Hall. These four women lead a programme that includes comedian Paul Merton, political spin doctor Alastair Campbell, novelists Alexander McCall Smith and Adele Parks, and Sunday Times correspondent Christina Lamb. With the General Election taking place just after the festival closes, its programme gets political with The Guardian’s John Crace, journalist Sam Delaney and former Observer editor Will Hutton. Tory grandees Lord Waldegrave and Lord Hurd talk about the lure of politics and there is also a timely panel discussion about political satire. For the first time, the festival is also combining music and words in two events: Dame Harriet Walter reads The Waste Land, with musical accompaniment, to mark the 50th anniversary of the death of T.S. Eliot; and the acclaimed pianist Lucy Parham partners with RSC actor Simon Russell Beale in a performance of Debussy’s music and readings from his diaries.

The festival finishes with its annual Children’s Day on Sunday 3 May, which features a stellar line-up of authors and illustrators. For further details, see our What’s On feature on pages 52–54.

Pottery workshop at Whichford Pottery

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WHAT’S ON: EVENTS Sunday 26 Shakespeare Marathon and Half Marathon, Stratford-upon-Avon shakespearemarathon.org.uk This year’s Marathon and Half Marathon start at Church Street, in the centre of the town, at 9am.

The events raise funds for local charities including the Shakespeare Hospice, Stratford Samaritans, Lifespace and ESH Works.

Tuesday 28 Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour at Cheltenham Town Hall 0844 576 2210 / GL52 1QA / cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk The world’s most prestigious mountain film festival is currently touring the UK and is in Cheltenham for one night only. This year’s selection of short films from the world’s leading adventure film makers is exhilarating and thought provoking – a must-see for anyone with a spirit of adventure. from Wednesday 29 Cheltenham Jazz Festival 0844 880 8094 / cheltenhamfestivals.com Directed by Jamie Cullum, Cheltenham Jazz Festival brings world class musicians to the town each year. Recent artists have included Roberta Flack, Van Morrison, Candi Staton and Robert Cray but as well as headlining international jazz legends, it also supports emerging names. The carnival atmosphere always makes it feel like the perfect start to summer, with a tented festival village in Cheltenham’s Montpellier Gardens and shows at various venues around the town. Festival highlights in 2015 include performances by Caro Emerald, Gregory Porter and Wilko Johnson. The festival continues until Monday 4 May. For further details, see our What’s On feature on page 55. throughout April Tulips at The Courts Garden, Bradford-on-Avon 01225 782875 / BA14 6RR / nationaltrust.org.uk The Courts Garden’s tulip collection spans pure white varieties such as ’White Triumphator’ to the deep, velvety purple-black of ’Black Hero’. There is a self-led trail around the garden and you can also get some useful tips about growing tulips from the head gardener.

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highlighted charity EVENT: Spring Grand Sale at Sudeley Castle

Thursday 23 – Sunday 26 April

Spring Grand Sale at Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe This is a great place to find accessories for your home and garden as well as clothing, gifts and speciality foods whilst helping to raise funds for the charity Against Breast Cancer…

Now in its 18th year at Sudeley Castle (GL54 5JD), the Spring Grand Sale is set in a luxurious marquee where you can browse and buy furniture for indoors and out, decorative accessories, fashion, gifts and food and drink from many niche brands. This year’s event features more than 140 exhibitors from across the UK, including several from the Cotswolds.

Unusual finds for your home include the new and vintage accessories from Laurie & Jules; Lucy Goes To Lapland’s limited edition cushions; ’shabby chic’ home furnishings from Garden Art & Design; and Crumble Cottage’s handmade bunting. For outdoors, Bramblecrest has an excellent selection of garden furniture and Luca’s Garden provides garden accessories.

You can find gorgeously soft and comfortable Spun Bamboo® T-shirts and socks from BambooClothes.com, plus lightweight jerseys from Fig Cashmere and Goose. For younger children, Crash Bang Kids has an interesting selection of beach toys as well as sunsafe swimwear. And the gap year kits from Intelligent Pelican are a great idea for older ones in your brood.

Luxury foods at the event include chutneys, preserves and sauces from The Carved Angel and award winning savoury and sweet pies by Lime Tree Pantry Foods. For something with more of a kick to it, look out for the smartly packaged range of flavoured vodkas by Brittains Vodka; or, from closer to home, the handmade premium liqueurs from Gibson’s Organic Liqueurs.

As well as providing a fun day out, the Spring Grand Sale helps raise funds for the charity Against Breast Cancer, which is based in Abingdon.

The charity was set up by Dr Anthony Leathem and his wife Patricia to fund pioneering clinical research with the aim of developing a vaccine against breast cancer. Its national Diet & Lifestyle Study of breast cancer survivors involves over 3,300 women in 57 hospitals across the UK and is now the largest study of its kind in the world.

Tickets to the Spring Grand Sale can be bought online (£5 per person), or by calling 01829 270714 (£7), or on the door (£9). There is free entry for children aged under 16.

For more details about Against Breast Cancer, call 01235 534211 or visit againstbreastcancer.org.uk Against Breast Cancer: registered charity number 1121258

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local highlights

Bath 90 Cheltenham 91 Cirencester 92 North cotswolds 93 Oxfordshire cotswolds 94 South cotswolds 95 Stratford-upon-Avon 96 Cotswold preview APRIL 15

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local HIGHLIGHTS

Bath

&surrounding towns and villages…

tales from the Cowshed We’ve been hearing great things about The Cowshed restaurant which opened in Bath late last year after a major renovation project. As with the flagship Cowshed restaurant in Bristol, there’s a strong commitment to locally sourced ingredients with all meats coming from the company’s own Bristol based butchery company, Ruby & White, and poultry from Radstock. The Cowshed’s mantra is “simple things done well” and the menus offer early bird options, dishes to share and a good old Sunday roast. There is also a dish of the day served with tea or coffee for £10. Highly recommended.

The Cowshed: 01225 433633 / BA1 5LS / cowshedrestaurants.com Wedding Dresses from 1775–2014 Edwina Ehrman, Curator of Fashion and Textiles at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, is at the American Museum in Britain (at Claverton Manor, near Bath) on Thursday 16 April to discuss key pieces from its recent Wedding Dresses 1775–2014 exhibition. She also explores the history of the wedding dress in Britain. The talk starts at 6:30pm and tickets are £7 per person. American Museum: 01225 820868 / BA2 7BD / americanmuseum.org

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Egg Hunt to celebrate 10 years of the egg It‘s Easter and everyone loves an egg hunt so the children‘s auditorium – the egg – at Bath’s Theatre Royal theatre is celebrating its 10th birthday with an egg hunt around the city centre. Until 11 April, you can pick up a free map from the theatre or Bath’s Visitor Centre (or print one off from online) to help you find the 25 decorated eggs which have been hidden.

There’s also an extra, golden egg which isn’t marked on the map...

The egg: 01225 823409 / BA1 1ET/ theatreroyal.org.uk

Canaletto in Bath Don’t miss a rare opportunity to see one of Canaletto’s most iconic works, currently in Bath on loan from London’s National Gallery.

Dating from around 1740, A Regatta on the Grand Canal depicts Venice’s annual carnival gondola race observed by thousands of figures. The painting displays all of Canaletto’s characteristic bravura and brilliance, and is at the Victoria Art Gallery as part of the National Gallery’s Masterpiece Tour of the UK. It remains on view in Bath until 3 May. Victoria Art Gallery: 01225 477233 / BA2 4AT / victoriagal.org.uk

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local HIGHLIGHTS

Cheltenham

&surrounding towns and villages…

Lost in the Willows at Sudeley Castle Wednesday 1 April sees the opening of Sudeley Castle’s new family attraction, Lost in the Willows, which includes a living willow maze.

It is based on the classic children’s novel The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame and consists of a series of interconnected areas where children can run free and have adventures finding the burrows of Badger, Ratty and Mole. It also includes a wildflower meadow, a small orchard, a dipping pond and a free play area, so there’s plenty for children to explore. The area has been developed by Sudeley in partnership with the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust. Sudeley Castle: 01242 602308 / GL54 5JD / sudeleycastle.co.uk

Tudor evening at Gloucester Folk Museum On Wednesday 25 April, head to Gloucester Folk Museum to be transported back in time to the days of Henry VIII, with an evening of Tudor food, games and trails. Tickets are £5 for adults. Gloucester Folk Museum: 01452 396868 / GL1 2PG

Prescott Bike Festival Calling all motorbike enthusiasts: Prescott Bike Festival takes place on Sunday 12 April at Prescott Hill Climb, near Gotherington.

This annual event is one of the UK’s finest gatherings of rare race bikes and throughout the day you can see (and hear) them as they ’run’ the hill. Four times World Superbike Champion Carl Fogarty is at this year’s event, plus there are test rides, exhibitors and a stunt show. The day runs from 8:30am–5pm.

Advance tickets are £12 for adults. Prescott Bike Festival: GL52 9RD / prescottbikefestival.com

May Hill Poetry Competition May Hill, near Newent, is a Gloucestershire landmark which famously inspired Edward Thomas to write his poem Words. 2015 marks 100 years since the poem was composed, so to mark the occasion the National Trust is holding a May Hill inspired poetry competition.

The closing date for entries is 1 May: please email jean.hume@nationaltrust.org.uk for full details.

May Hill: 01452 814213 / GL17 / nationaltrust.org.uk

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local HIGHLIGHTS

Cirencester

&surrounding towns and villages…

Made By Bob’S ‘Final Fridays’ On the last Friday of each month, diners at Made by Bob in Cirencester’s Cornhall are treated to a set menu based on cuisine from around the world.

Having already covered Thailand and Spain, in April (Friday 24) it is the turn of Italy. Dishes include Vincigrassi: open lasagne with cep, prosciutto and truffle.

Canapes are served from 7:30pm with dinner at 8pm. Early booking is recommended. Made by Bob: 01285 641818 / GL7 2NY / foodmadebybob.com

Bibury Court parties Now no longer a hotel, the very lovely Bibury Court is available on an exclusive hire basis for house parties or weddings. New this spring, The Hayloft is also available as a one bedroom luxury self-catering apartment.

It is set above the Coach House in the manor house’s rose garden and can be booked for a minimum two night stay. Perfect for a romantic weekend away. Bibury Court: 01285 740337 / GL7 5NT / biburycourt.com

Low Carbs, More Veg Cookery Class The modern diet tends to be riddled with simple carbohydrates which are broken down by the body into sugar, resulting in weight gain. If you are trying to cut down on your carbs, why not book a place on The Organic Farm Shop’s cookery class on Friday 17 April (10am–2:30pm). This hands-on class shows you how to use a range of vegetables to create dishes that are low in carbohydrates but high in flavour and protein. Places are £65 per person, including lunch. The Organic Farm Shop, near Cirencester: 01285 640441 / GL7 5HF / theorganicfarmshop.co.uk

Jay Rayner at the Sundial Theatre, Cirencester Recently voted the best food and drink journalist in Britain, Jay Rayner brings his show My Dining Hell to the Sundial Theatre on Friday 24 April, from 8pm. In this, he takes a lighthearted look at our love affair with lousy reviews and bad restaurants. Tickets are £15 per person. Sundial Theatre, Cirencester College: 01285 654228 / GL7 1XA / sundial-theatre.co.uk

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Cirencester International Organ Festival Naji Hakim, one of the world’s leading concert organists and improvisers, opens the 2015 Cirencester International Organ Festival which runs from Saturday 18 to Saturday 25 April. This takes place at the Church of St. John the Baptist in Cirencester’s Market Place and tickets to events are available online or on the door.

Cirencester Organ Festival: GL7 2PE / cirencesterorganfestival.co.uk

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local HIGHLIGHTS

North Cotswolds

including Broadway, Chipping Campden, Moreton-in-Marsh & Stow-on-the-Wold…

Grow your Own Cut Flowers Hidcote, the National Trust’s famous Arts and Crafts garden near Chipping Campden, provides the perfect backdrop for a cut flower workshop on Tuesday 14 April, from 9:30am. With expert guidance from one of Hidcote’s senior gardeners, you can learn how to grow flowers to cut for your house. Places are £45, including lunch. Advance booking is required.

Hidcote Manor: 01386 438333 / GL55 6LR / nationaltrust.org.uk

New Memorial in Moreton A war memorial has been unveiled in Moreton-in-Marsh to commemorate all of the town’s men who lost their lives in conflicts of the early 20th century. The stone memorial was designed by Moreton resident Adam Wood and is adjacent to the RAF graves at Moreton’s Top Cemetery.

Foxhill Manor, near Broadway Foxhill Manor, Dormy House Hotel’s ‘little sister’ property, can now be booked on a room by room basis as well as for exclusive use house parties. The Grade II listed Arts and Crafts country home was recently fully refurbished and offers luxurious accommodation in a contemporary style. Bedrooms are priced from £295 per night, with canine friends welcome.

Foxhill Manor: 01386 852711 / WR12 7LJ / foxhillmanor.com

Paxford Point-to-Point Easter Monday (6 April) brings the ever popular North Cotswold Hunt Point-to-Point. This is held at Bank Farm in Paxford (GL55 6XS).

Gates open at 10:30am and there’s everything on site for a fun family day out: food stalls, a parade of hounds and country trade stands.

The racing puts the horses through their paces with 18 jumps over the three mile course. For further details, visit northcotswoldhunt.co.uk

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local HIGHLIGHTS

Oxfordshire Cotswolds

including Banbury, Burford, Chipping Norton & Woodstock…

The Chicken Shed at the Wild Rabbit If you have a special occasion to celebrate with family or friends, The Chicken Shed at The Wild Rabbit in Kingham is ideal for private parties. This self-contained outbuilding is vastly more stylish than the name might suggest and comes with its own dedicated team of staff. The Wild Rabbit: 01608 658389 / OX7 6YA / thewildrabbit.co.uk

The Kingham Plough The Kingham Plough, set in the heart of the village of Kingham, has recently reopened following a full refurbishment of its bedrooms and kitchen. The inn’s six en suite bedrooms have all been individually styled and make the ideal Cotswold base for couples, families with children and visitors with dogs. The Kingham Plough: 01608 658327 / OX7 6YD / kinghamplough.co.uk CADA art & antique Fair Don’t miss The Cotswolds Art and Antique Dealers’ Association Fair which is at Blenheim Palace, in Woodstock, from Thursday 16 to Saturday 18 April. This annual fair provides a wonderful opportunity to browse and buy fine art and antiques presented by 29 expert dealers. CADA Fair: cadafair.com

Chipping Norton Literary Festival There are more than 50 events on the programme at this year’s ChipLitFest which runs from Thursday 23 to Sunday 26 April.

High profile speakers include Sheila Hancock, SJ Watson, David Baddiel and Helen Lederer. Chipping Norton Literary Festival: 01608 642350 / chiplitfest.com

SPRING EXHIBITION AT THE ALBION GALLERY, CHIPPING NORTON Don’t miss your chance to see The Albion Gallery’s spring exhibition which runs until Friday 1 May, featuring celebrated British artists such as Mike Bernard, Judith Bridgland and Helen Tabor. This fine art gallery opened just last year on Chipping Norton’s High Street and specialises in contemporary British art. A programme of exhibitions is held throughout the year and owners Steven and John are keen to make their gallery both relaxing and inspiring to visit, so you can always be sure of a warm welcome.

If you would like more details about any of the art on display, expect a friendly chat over a coffee.

The Albion Gallery: 01608 238020 / OX7 5AD / albiongallery.co.uk

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local HIGHLIGHTS

South Cotswolds

including Malmesbury, Nailsworth, Stroud & Tetbury…

Goods Shed Folk Festival Tetbury Rail Lands Regeneration Trust (TRLRT) is a charity which is working to bring Tetbury’s former GWR railway station into action as a new community arts and entertainment space. Carol services, art exhibitions and live music have all been enjoyed to date and a Folk Festival in the Goods Shed is planned for Friday 24 and Saturday 25 April.

More details can be found online. TRLRT: tetburyraillands.com Westonbirt House Open Day and Gardens Rebuilt on the site of an Elizabeth manor house by Robert Staynor Holford in the mid-19th century, Westonbirt House is a fine example of high Victorian architecture. It is now occupied by Westonbirt School, but the Grade I listed property is open to the public on Sunday 12 April, from 11am–5pm. No booking is required but visitors should report to reception. The £8 admission charge includes refreshments and a guided tour of the house and garden.

Holford Trust: 01666 881373 / GL8 8QG / holfordtrust.com

CoCo and the Butterfields CoCo and the Butterfields is currently one of the UK’s hottest up-and-coming bands, admired for its energetic live performances. The five-strong group includes the unusual combination of guitar, violin, double bass, banjo and beatbox, making for an inimitable sound.

You can see the band live at Prema, in Uley, on Saturday 25 April from 8pm.

Tickets are £12 in advance or £15 on the door. Prema: 01453 860703 / GL11 5SS / prema.org.uk

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Great coffee in Stroud The café and bar Socialight which opened on Stroud’s High Street late last year has already become a popular destination. It is owned by Kelly Pitt who wanted to create a venue where people can hang out and enjoy really good coffee, based on her own experience while travelling in South America. The open-plan space serves homemade food and is open Monday to Saturday, from 9am–5pm, with occasional evening events.

Socialight: 01453 750897 / GL5 1AS

Stroud Shop news Stroud’s Brilliant Disguise owners, Simon Powell and Jane Mahoney-Wightman, are set to open a new store called The Shoe Box in the old Toy Shop premises on the town’s High Street. There is a special launch evening on Thursday 16 April, from 6pm, when you can view the new shoe brands, enjoy some refreshments and take advantage of discounts on the night. The Toy Shop, meanwhile, has moved to a larger space on Union Street, doubling its stock. The Shoe Box: 01453 757707 / GL5 1AN

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local HIGHLIGHTS

Stratford-upon-Avon

& South Warwickshire…

Stratford Literary Festival Celebrating its 8 th year in 2015, The Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival has become known as one of the most significant events of its kind in the UK, offering an interesting mix of debate, ideas, celebrity author events, workshops and humour. This year, it runs from Saturday 25 April until Saturday 2 May and participants include Dame Jacqueline Wilson, Paul Merton, Dame Antonia Fraser (pictured), Helen Lederer and Baron Hurd of Westwell.

A programme of education events in local schools also takes place involving favourite authors, poets and illustrators. For further details see our What’s On feature on pages 52–54.

Stratford Literary Festival: 01789 207100 / stratfordliteraryfestival.co.uk

Springtime at Charlecote Park Charlecote Park is a grand Elizabeth house near Stratfordupon-Avon which has been in the Lucy family for over 900 years. The house opens to the public on Thursdays to Tuesdays and the park, garden, restaurant and shop are open seven days a week. April is a lovely time to visit: you can enjoy the display of spring bulbs in the parterre, try your hand at croquet and see fallow deer roaming the parkland. Charlecote Park: 01789 470277 / CV35 9ER / nationaltrust.org.uk Royal Shakespeare Company Birthday Bash On Sunday 26 April, from 4pm, you can join a celebration at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre to mark the bard’s 451st birthday, with a host of actors and musicians performing extracts from some of his most celebrated works. Tickets are from £16. Royal Shakespeare Company: 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk

Stratford Marathon Even if you’re not taking part, you can soak up the atmosphere of the Stratford Marathon and Half Marathon which take place on Sunday 26 April.

The events start in Church Street at 9am. For full race details, visit shakespearemarathon.org.uk

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property&home

Property feature: spring 2015 property comment Highlighted properties Editor’s Choice: interiors Gardens feature: ngs new gardens for 2015 Gardens design tips: 10 Improvements to your garden Cotswold preview APRIL 15

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Spring 2015 Property comment

Church Cottage, Shilton, Oxfordshire:‫‏‬currently on the market with Jackson-Stops & Staff, Burford

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property feature… spring 2015 property comment

A springtime analysis of this year’s Cotswold housing market by the area’s leading estate agents and property specialists…

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It may be in the blood, but there is certainly something that makes us Brits obsess about three things in particular. These are, of course, the weather, especially in relation to sports matches and our gardens; schools (and competitive parenting in general); and property prices, which are related to our second obsessive interest in terms of catchment areas. Without these topics of national interest, whatever would we talk about at dinner parties?

At the start of 2015, following some of the most far-reaching property market reforms for many years and with the country still easing out of recession – and with a general election of the horizon – property is an even hotter topic than usual. With this in mind, we asked 10 of the Cotswolds’ leading estate agents and property experts to summarise their view of the current property market and their projections for the year ahead. These professional opinions are presented on the following pages…

Nic Mills County Homesearch Cotswolds, Hereford & South Worcestershire, North Wiltshire: 01285 656310 / county-homesearch.com “Uncertainty always precedes a general election, tending to slow the desire to move, and never more so than this year where the whole parameters of market forces are changing. The revamp of Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) has encouraged movement in the mainstream whilst providing a hurdle into the upper end. However, the proposed Mansion Tax could be a red herring and the long overdue revamp of the Council Tax may be the likely way forward. On top of gently rising prices with mortgage applications still difficult to secure, first time buyers are now facing competition from the OAPs who wish to utilise and further fund their pension. The overall situation is reinforcing ‘Generation Rent’ to continue for the time being, with a distinct landlord’s market. Interestingly, we are now noticing more quality properties becoming available to rent where before they would have been offered for sale, thereby reducing the available stock for purchase. It is times like these that trigger enquiries from frustrated cash buyers requiring assistance, which often provide an excellent opportunity to negotiate on the successful property purchase of a hidden gem.”

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property feature… spring 2015 property comment

Simon Merton Strutt & Parker, Moreton-in-Marsh 01608 650502 / GL56 0LH / struttandparker.com “The market in the Cotswolds shot up in January as we saw a spike in activity following the Christmas break. We also saw an increase in the number of buyers registering compared to the same period last year.

Those houses that came to the market in January have already found buyers, demonstrating that there is a market and that buyers want to get on despite the impending election and some negative market comment.

There is a shortage of stock and there are some good buyers about. The Cotswolds is one of the country’s major property hot-spots: demand for property of all sizes continues to outstrip supply.”

Rupert SturgiS Knight Frank, Cirencester 01285 659771 / knightfrank.co.uk “The momentum and confidence in the regional property market hasn’t faltered and 2015 has got off to a screaming start. Knight Frank Cirencester arranged over 60 viewings in the first 10 days of the year and we have arranged sales on every type of property including a farm, country house, village houses and some delightful cottages. Inspections are at an unprecedented high. The whole team have been looking at many wonderful properties which may well come to the market in 2015. There are no signs that the forthcoming election is dampening market ardours, so we are confident that this optimistic trend will continue.”

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Paul Oughton Moore Allen & Innocent 01285 648118 / GL7 1QD / mooreallen.co.uk “Rental demand across the Cotswolds remains brisk.

Despite rental property numbers also on the rise, for those properties that are correctly priced and well-presented, rent levels remain supported. Looking forward, there are several positive factors that we believe will provide support and growth within the rental market in 2015. It has been a trend in recent months that more tenants are looking to renew at their current homes which, combined with a stronger sales market, is likely to see a reduction in available rental stock particularly within the core rental market.

As one of the largest and most experienced letting agents within the area, the firm expects that the preference for good quality three and four bedroom family housing in key locations – such as those with access to good schools and transport links – will continue, with existing demand supplemented by those relocating to the area and perhaps temporarily renting before buying.

The confidence within the market together with very competitive mortgage rates has also seen the resurgence of investor landlords either looking to enter the market or to expand their portfolios.”

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property feature… spring 2015 property comment William Leschallas Jackson-Stops & Staff 01993 822661 / OX18 4QJ / jackson-stops.co.uk “2015 started with the busiest time we’ve had for a number of years: having been open over the holiday period we had offers on three different properties by lunchtime on the first normal working day in 2015! However, the market remains unpredictable as it has been for a few years now. Activity remained until February when sellers started to be anxious about putting their property on the market. There are some excellent buyers about in the Cotswolds just waiting to pounce when the right property comes up and at the right price, but buyers are still very choosey and price sensitive. It is always possible to find a reason not to put your house on the market but my advice is to take the opportunity now. Spring is in the air and more stock will appear, giving buyers more choice. As ever, the Cotswolds remains a lovely area in which to live and this will always be the case.”

Sam Butler Butler Sherborn 01451 830731 / GL54 1AQ / butlersherborn.co.uk “We Brits are quite good at finding reasons for not doing something, especially when it comes to moving home. Any excuse can be found to defer the decision, whether it’s the change in Stamp Duty or the forthcoming election, but we would suggest that’s neither logical nor sensible. We actually think the change to Stamp Duty brought in by the Chancellor in the Autumn Statement 2014 is a good thing when taken in the round. Now that it is stepped, it is a much fairer system for all and will greatly help the first time buyer. The general election in May could potentially bring about a seismic shift in the political landscape – or not! But whichever party secures power, our view is that they will not want to change very much on property, at least in the short to medium term.

Meanwhile, life goes on.”

Soffi Searle Searles Property Consultancy 07887 888686 / searlespc.co.uk “Another positive year has passed for Searles Property Consultancy, a licensed ARLA Agent dedicated to lettings in the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire and North Wiltshire. For the past 12 months, the lettings market has continued on trend as previously. Now, after the usual slow start to the year in January and February, I have found that this year the spring weather has not yet impacted on instructions – the daffodils are late to show and with a Budget in March and a general election in May, landlords are approaching the year cautiously. But last year, the steady flow of instructions generally had success so that tenants and landlords have been happy with the letting process. I look forward to 2015 with the usual optimism and hopefully activity will continue for the area now that we are forecast good weather and growth in the economy, supporting businesses and job opportunities.”

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APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

Stephen Wolfenden 01386 438414

Nic Mills 01285 656310

WE FIND HOMES FOR OUR CLIENTS WHATEVER THE MARKET Whether you are looking to buy or rent, we have the expertise, reputation and experience to seek out the property you want. Using our knowledge and network of contacts, we can source properties of genuine interest, giving you the advantage.

Please call for an informal discussion on how we can best help. Or visit our websites

RELOCATION

www.county-homesearch.com

WITHOUT COMPLICATION

The Cotwolds, Herefordshire, South Worcestershire and North Wiltshire

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

GL O

L

EA

BA

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THE ASSOCIATION O F R E LO C AT I O N PROFESSIONALS

®

★ EURA★ GL

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Contact Nic Mills, nicmills@county-homesearch.com +44(0)1285 656310 or 07795 576142

Oxfordshire, Rural Berkshire, South Warwickshire and Northamptonshire

L Q U A LI T Y

S

2008-2014

Contact Stephen Wolfenden, oxfordshire@county-homesearch.com +44(0)1386 438414 or 07836 369681 The Property Ombudsman

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property feature… spring 2015 property comment

Gabrielle mallard Sheldon Bosley, Stratford-upon-Avon 01789 292310 / CV37 6LN / sheldonbosley.co.uk “One of the biggest changes in the property market of 2014, which will have an ongoing effect through 2015, was the change in the Stamp Duty tax. Previously, homebuyers paid Stamp Duty on the entire purchase price of a residential property. Now, a progressive structure equates to no Stamp Duty payable up to £125,000 and 2% payable up to £250,000, 5% on the portion up to £925,000, 10% on the portion up to £1.5 million and 12% on the remainder over that amount. This reform has been warmly welcomed by the vast majority of buyers and sellers and we feel that it has helped the market move forward. The previous system was regarded as unfair and was resented, with many buyers seeking to negotiate around these thresholds. This change means that we shall see many more transactions creeping over the £250,000 mark during this year. Hopefully it will also help to bring first time buyers back to the market. In brief, 2015 has got off to a brisk start but there is still a great shortage of property at all levels.”

Amy Seager Hamptons, Stroud 01453 751666 / GL52AD / hamptons.co.uk “Somewhat unexpectedly, the 2015 housing market set off at roaring pace from the word go, both for the Stroud office and our 85 strong network of branches. Throughout the months of January and February, demand among buyers has been strong with the Stroud branch reporting a 10% uplift in the number of new buyers registering compared to the same period last year. As a company, we actually registered our second highest number of applicants in the last eight years. Such strong statistics have resulted in the Stroud branch and wider Hamptons network achieving fantastic results for our clients including the return of competitive bidding in some cases.”

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Sam Trounson Strutt & Parker, Cirencester 01285 653101 / GL7 2PP / struttandparker.com “The market in the Cotswolds continues to be resilient. We have been invited out to see a great deal of houses since the beginning of January and have a very healthy pipeline of properties coming to the market in the coming weeks.

We have been extremely active in January and February, which have traditionally been quieter months and there is definitely an appetite to transact property. The market certainly remains price sensitive but there are plenty of buyers out there and realistic vendors. The focus though is still on family properties rather than a country residence and although around 50% of our buyers traditionally come from London, we are seeing plenty of buyers coming from all regions of the country.”

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

highlighted property

Cleeve House

A striking and substantial Cotswold stone detached home, constructed in 1933 to an Arts and Crafts design. It is set in 2.2 acres and enjoys panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.

Location: Cleeve Prior Accommodation: Fabulous living room, large dining room, garden room, breakfast kitchen, utility room, six bedrooms, two bathrooms and wine cellar.

Outside: Garage and gardens, in all about 2.2 acres.

Price: ÂŁ975,000 (01789) 292310 Tel: 01789 292310 (01608) 661666 Email: stratford@sheldonbosley.co.uk Sheldon Bosley Birmingham Post template_Dec13_Layout 1 12/12/2013 10:34 Page 1

Market Place, Shipston-on-Stour

www.sheldonbosley.co.uk

Planning & Architectural

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

Residential Lettings

Commercial Property

Residential Sales

Rural Land Agency

Surveys & Valuations

for sale

58 Ely Street, Stratford upon Avon

Chartered Surveyors

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for sale

58 Ely Street, Stratford upon Avon

(01789) 292310 Market Place, Shipston-on-Stour

(01608) 661666 www.sheldonbosley.co.uk Planning & Architectural

Residential Lettings

Commercial Property

Residential Sales

Rural Land Agency

Surveys & Valuations

Chartered Surveyors

heldon Bosley Birmingham Post template_Dec13_Layout 1 12/12/2013 10:34 Page 1

for sale

58 Ely Street, Stratford upon Avon

(01789) 292310 Market Place, Shipston-on-Stour

(01608) 661666 www.sheldonbosley.co.uk Planning & Architectural

Residential Lettings

Commercial Property

Residential Sales

Rural Land Agency

Surveys & Valuations

Chartered Surveyors

Dorsington, Warwickshire

Lower Brailes, Warwickshire

A beautifully appointed Edwardian country farmhouse set in most attractive gardens and grounds of 3¾ acres (1.53Ha) with paddock and lovely views.

A lovely character stone built four bedroom family house in an attractive courtyard setting together with a well landscaped garden and delightful outlook towards Brailes Hill.

EPC Rating: Band E

EPC Rating: Band D

Guide Price £895,000

*Apply Shipston Office

Shipston-on-Stour, Warwickshire Residential Sales Gilly Stapleton BA. ALA

Gabrielle Mallard MNAEA

Philip Jones FNAEA

pjones@sheldonbosley.co.uk

gstapleton@sheldonbosley.co.uk

gmallard@sheldonbosley.co.uk

A delightfully situated and well presented, modern dormer style detached family house set in a quiet private drive only a short walk from the town centre.

EPC Rating: Band D

Guide Price £625,000

Commercial Property Oxhill, Warwickshire Liz Smith MNAEA

sjames@sheldonbosley.co.uk

Surveys & Valuations Simon Wilkinson MRICS NAEA

swilkinson@sheldonbosley.co.uk

A well situated modern three bedroom chalet style detached village house with scope for further extension/ refurbishment and set in good sized gardens in a quiet cul de sac enjoying attractive countryside view.

*Apply Shipston Office

Offers over £375,000

Gilly Stapleton BA. ALA

gstapleton@sheldonbosley.co.uk

*Apply Shipston Office

Commercial Property

Residential Sales gmallard@sheldonbosley.co.uk 106

Suzanne James BSc MRICS

lsmith@sheldonbosley.co.uk

EPC Rating: Band F

Guide Price £385,000

Gabrielle Mallard MNAEA

*Apply Shipston Office

Philip Jones FNAEA

pjones@sheldonbosley.co.uk

Liz Smith MNAEA

lsmith@sheldonbosley.co.uk

Suzanne James BSc MRICS

Surveys & Valuations Simon Wilkinson MRICS NAEA

swilkinson@sheldonbosley.co.uk sjames@sheldonbosley.co.uk APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

for sale

58 Ely Street, Stratford upon Avon

(01789) 292310 Market Place, Shipston-on-Stour

(01608) 661666 www.sheldonbosley.co.uk Planning & Architectural

Residential Lettings

Commercial Property

Residential Sales

Rural Land Agency

Surveys & Valuations

Chartered Surveyors

Residential Sales

Rural Land Agency

Surveys & Valuations

Chartered Surveyors

Sheldon Bosley Birmingham Post template_Dec13_Layout 1 12/12/2013 10:34 Page 1

for sale

58 Ely Street, Stratford upon Avon

(01789) 292310 Market Place, Shipston-on-Stour

(01608) 661666 www.sheldonbosley.co.uk Planning & Architectural

Residential Lettings

Commercial Property

Wytheburn, Luddington

29 Quineys Road, Shottery

A lovely five bedroom family home with stunning views to the front, good sized gardens to the rear, garage and parking for several cars to the front.

A well presented four bedroom family home with beautifully laid rear gardens and garage set in a much sought after location.

Breakfast kitchen, dining room, lounge, utility area & cloakroom, five bedrooms, office, bathroom, en-suite wet room, gardens, garage and parking.

Living room, conservatory, dining room, breakfast kitchen, utility room, shower room, four bedrooms, bathroom, garage, garden.

Guide Price £535,000

Guide Price £830,000

Redlea, Tiddington Gabrielle Mallard MNAEA

*Apply Stratford Office

Surveys & Valuations Property 4 West Street,Commercial Stratford-upon-Avon

Residential Sales

Gilly Stapleton BA. ALA

Philip Jones FNAEA

A well presented, four bedroom property with off road parking, set in the much sought after village of Tiddington.

gmallard@sheldonbosley.co.uk

gstapleton@sheldonbosley.co.uk

*Apply Stratford Office

pjones@sheldonbosley.co.uk

Liz Smith MNAEA

Suzanne James BSc MRICS

Simon Wilkinson MRICS NAEA

sjames@sheldonbosley.co.uk A two bedroom extended Victorian cottage swilkinson@sheldonbosley.co.uk conveniently located n the heart of 'Old Town'.

lsmith@sheldonbosley.co.uk

Two reception rooms, cloakroom, spacious kitchen/ dining room, utility room, ground floor shower room, four bedrooms, en-suite wet room, family bathroom, garden, off road parking.

Living/dining room, fitted kitchen, cellar/reception room/bedroom, two bedrooms, bathroom, garden, central heating.

Guide Price £450,000

Asking Price £450,000

*Apply Stratford Office

Commercial Property

Residential Sales Gabrielle Mallard MNAEA

Gilly Stapleton BA. ALA

gstapleton@sheldonbosley.co.uk Cotswold preview APRIL 15

gmallard@sheldonbosley.co.uk

Philip Jones FNAEA

pjones@sheldonbosley.co.uk

Liz Smith MNAEA

lsmith@sheldonbosley.co.uk

Suzanne James BSc MRICS

sjames@sheldonbosley.co.uk

*Apply Stratford Office

Surveys & Valuations Simon Wilkinson MRICS NAEA

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swilkinson@sheldonbosley.co.uk

jackson-stops.co.uk

Hanover House, Burford A handsome Grade II Listed town house in Burford's most sought after street.

Entrance Porch, Inner Hall, Drawing Room, Study, Sitting Room, Dining Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room with Larder, Laundry/Cloakroom,Cellar,MasterBedroomwithBuiltinWardrobes,3FurtherBedrooms,BathroomandShowerRoom.

Inner Courtyard, Walled Courtyard Garden.

Guide price: ÂŁ1,400,000

108 People Property Places

Burford

01993 822661 APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

jackson-stops.co.uk

Middle Farm, Ramsden A characterful village house with gardens and adjoining paddock. In all about 1.45 acres.

Reception Hall, Sitting Room, Library, Study/Studio/Playroom, Vaulted Family Room/Dining Room, Conservatory, Utility Room, Bedroom Suite with Bathroom and Dressing Room, Guest Bedroom with En-Suite Shower Room, 2 Further Bedrooms, Dressing Room/5th Bedroom, Shower Room. Garage and Parking.

Guide price: ÂŁ 1,350,000

People Property Places Cotswold preview APRIL 15

Burford

01993 822661 109

Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

Cox Hill Farm, ASHTON KEYNES, WILTSHIRE

£775,000

An impressive, recently refurbished Cotswold stone farmhouse, enjoying views of the surrounding rural location. Set in 1.26 acres combining gardens and paddocks. The beautifully presented accommodation blends many character features with light, spacious and flexible rooms. Further enhanced by the potential offered by the detached Cotswold stone barn with planning permission for residential use.

4 Bedrooms · 5 Reception Rooms · Kitchen/Breakfast Room · 2 Bath/Shower Rooms · Utility Contact: Teresa Davis, Cirencester

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mooreallen.co.uk

Cirencester 01285 648100 Lechlade 01367 252541 APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

Brooke House,

THE WALLED GARDEN, EWEN, GLOUCESTERSHIRE

£945,000

An impressive mature detached house set back along a private driveway within the heart of this most sought after village and offering further potential to extend (subject to planning). Enjoying delightful private, south facing landscaped gardens of approximately one acre, bound in part by hand crafted Cotswold stone walls.

4 Bedrooms · 3 Reception Rooms · Kitchen/Breakfast Room · Bathroom · Cloakroom · Double Garage Contact: Nicola Collins, Cirencester

mooreallen.co.uk

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

Cirencester 01285 648100

Lechlade 01367 252541 111

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struttandparker.com

Middle Lypiatt | Gloucestershire

Quintessential country living, beautifully created in rural tranquility Entrance hall | Inner hall | Drawing room/dining room | Kitchen/breakfast room | Utility room | 5 Bedrooms (all with en suite bath/shower rooms) | 2 Barns (one with planning consent) | Garage | Stables | Manège | Workshop | Gardens and grounds | About 18.4 acres Guide Price £3,250,000

Cirencester 01285 653101

sam.trounson@struttandparker.com

50 offices across England and Scotland, including 10 offices in Central London 112 APRIL01865 15 Cotswold preview Cirencester 01285 653101 | Moreton-in-Marsh 01608 650502 | Oxford 366660

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Ready Token | Gloucestershire

A stunning Cotswold country house with wonderful views across the land 3 Reception rooms | Kitchen/breakfast room | Boot room | 5 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms (3 en suite) | 2 Attic bedrooms | 2 Bedroom cottage | Stable block | Garaging | Studio | Indoor swimming pool | Gardens | Pasture | EPC ratings House E, Cottage D | About 57 acres

Cirencester 01285 653101

sam.trounson@struttandparker.com

Joint Agents: Butler Sherborn 01285 883740

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Trip the Daisy

Savills has the Cotswolds covered.

A much admired 17th century village house together with an annexe and a separate cottage.

Location: Idstone, Oxfordshire Accommodation: Drawing room, dining room, sitting room, kitchen/ breakfast room, laundry, garden room, cloakroom, cellar, four bedrooms and three bath/shower rooms.

Outside: Guest annexe with bedroom, bathroom, sauna and store, cottage with kitchen/breakfast room, bedroom and bathroom, barn

ment

style carport and store, private parking and walled garden, in all about 0.66 acres.

Guide price: ÂŁ1,495,000 Tel: 01285 627550 Email: acoaker@savills.com

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highlighted property

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highlighted property

Westonbirt

A substantial, charmingly refurbished period farmhouse in a rural situation.

Location: Gloucestershire Accommodation: Large AGA kitchen, large drawing room with open fire, large dining room with open fire, large sitting room with open fire, study, two cloakrooms, domestic offices, master bedroom and dressing room with en suite bathroom, two guest bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, six further bedrooms and four further bathrooms.

Outside: Pretty gardens with terrace and lovely views. Garage and parking. Two bedroom staff cottage. EPC exempt.

Situation: Unfurnished Price: £6500 pcm Tel: 07887 888686 Email: soffisearle@btinternet.com

Elkstone

SEARLES Property Consultancy LTD

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SEARLES Property Consultancy LTD

A very spacious refurbished first floor Coach House conversion in the grounds of a larger house set in a very rural, unspoiled valley.

Location: Gloucestershire Accommodation: Large sitting room with open fire and dining area, new kitchen, master bedroom with ensuite bathroom, double bedroom, study/dressing room/single bedroom and family shower room.

Outside: Parking and storage. EPC Band E. Situation: Unfurnished Price: £1300 pcm Tel: 07887 888686 Email: soffisearle@btinternet.com Tenant Reference Fee: £45 Company Reference Fee: £60 Tenant Admin Fee: £100

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

BROADSWORD security services

APPsolutely Connected Broadsword’s NEW line of intruder alarms

JUST A FEW BENEFITS ARE: Remote maintenance and customer support Our in-house engineers can carry out remote servicing, fault diagnostics and customer programming changes iPhone, iPad and Android APP offering • ability to set and unset • system status • event viewer • receive notifications such as; Intruder Alarm activation, medical alert, Fire Alarm Activation • Automation; open gates, switch on lights, unlock doors… the list goes on.

View your intruder alarm cameras

Sounds Expensive? Why not call us, you just might be surprised!

Call now on 01608 641670 for a FREE and Confidential site survey.

Broadsword Security Services 5 Essex House, Cromwell Business Park, Chipping Oxon OX7APRIL 5SR 15 CotswoldNorton, preview

phone: 01608 641670 email: sales@broadswordsecurity.com visit: www.broadswordsecurity.com

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highlighted property

Covert Cottage

A beautifully presented and most stylish small country house with special gardens close to Chipping Campden.

Location: Saintbury, Gloucestershire Accommodation: Reception hall/study, hall/garden room, kitchen/breakfast room, dining room, drawing room, sitting room and four bedrooms, all with en suite bathrooms.

Outside: Garden designed by John Brookes with paved terrace and lawns, summer house, two carports, workshop and store with wc.

Guide price: ÂŁ1,500,000 Tel: 01451 832832 Email: stow@smithsgore.co.uk

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APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

Cotswolds premier destination centre located in Stroud for Vintage, Retro, Curios and interior pieces from a variety of era's to suit an array of styles.

Open 7 days a week: Mon–Sat 10am–4pm and Sun/Bank Holidays 11am–3pm Salmon Springs, Painswick Road, (A46), Stroud, GL6 6NU www.malthouseemporium.com

Property of a Gentleman We offer a diverse range of thoughtfully chosen vintage pieces and contemporary home wares, both classic and innovative.

In a nutshell, if we don’t love it, we don’t sell it.

We welcome your visit to our in-house cafés,

Café 53 in Tetbury & The Canteen in Nailsworth Days Mill, Old Market, Nailsworth, GL6 0DU T: 01453 833123 53 Long Street, Tetbury, GL8 8AA T:01666 503667 E:hello@domestic-science-home.co.uk W:www.domestic-science-home.co.uk

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

Antiques and Collectables for the Edwardian Gent in the 21st Century 7 North St, Winchcombe, Cheltenham, Glos GL54 5LH Tel:01242 609 556 email:info@propertyofagentleman.co.uk Opening Hours: Thurs/Fri/Sat 10am—6pm, Sundays 10am—1pm © Steve Ullathorne photography | tel: 07961380969

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Editor’s Choice… Interiors

We love this Fresco Secco wallpaper by Zoffany which is part of its Constantina Damask collection. The damask is printed with translucent metallic inks to give a modern interpretation of the time-worn plaster of ancient frescos. It is pictured here in Bronze. In the same collection, another of our favourites is the Elena pattern which again has been distressed to give it an antique feel. This design comes as both a wallpaper and a silk mix fabric. To order samples or for local stockist details, visit zoffany.com

Editor’s Choice

Our monthly selection of useful and beautiful designs for the home…

One of the best kept secrets in Broadway is Sue Parkinson’s Home store which is tucked away in Kennel Lane, off the High Street.

As with its sister store of fashion and accessories, it is a great place to find beautifully crafted and stylish pieces. The current edit includes this Dania onion box, in teak, by Skagerak (£59) which would work just as well for storing towels or magazines. Sue Parkinson Home: 01386 858375 / WR12 7DJ / sue-parkinson.com

Another of our favourite sources for home accessories is MASH (‘Modern Accessories, Stylish Home’) in Chipping Norton, which has a particularly good selection of retro and country designs. New season stock is now in store. Mash Lifestyle: 01608 644669 / OX7 5AD / mashlifestyle.com

This year, British textile company James Hare celebrates its 150th anniversary and it has introduced a new fabrics collection to mark the occasion. One of the most luxurious of these designs is Diamond Bouquet, pictured here, which was inspired by a diamond brooch given by the company’s founder to his wife at the start of the 20th century. It features sprays of flowers picked out in lavish metallic embroidery on a satin ground.

Three colourways are available, RRP £150 per metre. For local stockist details, visit james-hare.com

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APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

GREENWAY ANTIQUES of Witney

Home & Gifts

ESCAPE to the

COUNTRY

For your town or country home and gardens

Black Jack Street CIRENCESTER 01285 650308 OPEN 7 DAYS

open: Mon–Sat 9:30am–5:30pm 90 Corn Street, Witney, OX28 6BU t: 01993 705026 w: greenwayantiques.com

Kendrick Street STROUD 01453 764399

Piper Chatfield Fine Furniture Stylish and unusual contemporary furniture, antiques, accessories and lighting in Stow-on-the-Wold’s vibrant new Lifestyle Store Open Tuesday to Saturday 10.00 to 17.30, Sunday 11.00 to 16.00 (Closed Monday) 1 Digbeth Court, Digbeth Street, Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire, GL54 1BN www.piperchatfield.co.uk 01451 833892

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NGS

New gardens for2015

Aston Pottery, near Bampton

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APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

gardens feature… ngs new gardens for 2015

Since 1927, the National Gardens Scheme has raised money for charity by organising public open days at English and Welsh gardens “of quality, character and interest”. On the following pages, we highlight the 12 Cotswold gardens which are holding NGS open days for the first time this year…

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gardens feature… ngs new gardens for 2015 Open: Saturday 23 & Sunday 24 May, from 2pm–5pm. Individual visitors and groups (maximum size 40) are also welcome by arrangement from March to September.

Aston Pottery

Aston Pottery Aston, near Bampton, OX18 2BT The gardens set around the pottery, gift shop and café feature four stunning borders which are in flower throughout the spring, summer and into autumn. Features include a multilayered, traditional perennial border; a long, doublebordered hornbeam walk with summerhouse; and a 50 metre hot bank with phlox, kniphofia and canna lilies running five metres deep.

Open: Sunday 30 August, from 12 noon–5pm.

Aylworth Manor Aylworth, near Cheltenham, GL54 3AH This is a rural garden nestled in a hamlet in a quiet valley directly on the Windrush Way. It has developed to maturity over the last 12 years and features a mixture of attractive herbaceous borders, shrubs, trees and ponds.

Open: Sunday 31 May, from 2pm–5:30pm.

Visitors are also welcome by arrangement during May and June.

Bush House Wigginton Road, South Newington, near Banbury, OX15 4JR Set within a larger plot, a two acre garden has been created here over the past four years. This includes herbaceous borders, ponds and a stream, a terrace leading to a walled parterre framed by roses and wisteria, an orchard and a vine-covered wrought iron trellis. There are also kitchen gardens, a greenhouse and fruit cage which provide organically grown produce.

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Caversfield House Caversfield, near Bicester, OX27 8TQ This large garden of approximately 30 acres is managed organically. It includes mixed borders, wild flower areas, a lake and wetland. Some wonderful old trees and the lake were inherited by the current owners who believe they date back to Victorian times.

Open: Sunday 14 June, from 1pm–6pm.

Field Cottage Fritwell Road, Fewcott, near Bicester, OX27 7NZ A one acre organic garden with perennial borders and specimen bushes and trees. Ecofriendly techniques which are employed here to encourage wildlife include a green roof, primarily of sedum, which counterbalances emissions from the main house’s heating system. A wildlife pond and wild flower bund complement the ecofriendly ethos.

Open: Thursday 25 & Friday 26 June, from 10:30am–3pm.

Loders Gate Fairford Road, Downington, near Lechlade, GL7 3DL Loders Gate is a plant lover’s haven of 1.5 acres. The front garden has long, deep 4

Alyworth Manor

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

From uninspired to inspirational - we transform both large and small gardens to suit your style and budget. All our garden layouts are individual, to complement the character of your home. We can create an outdoor space which can be enjoyed, nurtured and developed for many years to come.

www.susandunstall.com susan@susandunstall.com +44 07879 842 934

Cotswold preview APRIL 15

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borders of herbaceous plants, ornamental grasses and yew hedging and there is also a walled garden to the rear of the house. Beyond that are two wildlife ponds, a small wooded area, a greenhouse, lawns, mature trees, a rose garden and long herbaceous and shrub borders.

Open: Wednesday 17 June and Wednesday 16 September, from 1pm–4:30pm.

The Manor Little Compton, near Moreton-inMarsh, GL56 0RZ Four acres of gardens surround this 16 th century manor house (not open) which is set in a beautiful location in the village of Little Compton. Visitors can enjoy the many garden rooms, the long herbaceous borders, deer walk, Japanese garden, flower garden, arboretum and specimen trees.

Open: Saturday 18 July, from 2pm–5pm.

Nailsworth Gardens off Chestnut Hill, Nailsworth, GL6 0RN This opening includes two gardens on a steep hill, featuring completely different designs,

Nailsworth Gardens

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Loders Gate

features and planting.

Open: Sunday 21 June, from 1pm–6pm.

Old Swan & Minster Mill Old Minster Lovell, near Witney, OX29 0RN The hotel is set in 65 acres of picturesque gardens, located beside the River Windrush.

The grounds comprise formal gardens, a kitchen garden that supplies the inn, and 40 acres of wild flower meadows which were created in 2011. An apiary which sits amongst the wild flowers supplies the hotel with honey.

Open: Friday 29 May and Friday 26 June, from 2pm–5pm.

Seend Head House Seend, near Melksham, SN12 6PP The 18th century house stands in a 13 acre plot which is currently under renovation. Three year old flowerbeds are colour themed and have a mix of shrubs and herbaceous planting.

There is a young orchard and you can stroll through the field where trees are gradually being planted to create parkland. There are also extensive lawns sloping down to the river.

Open: Sunday 9 August, from 2pm–5pm.

APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

gardens feature… ngs new gardens for 2015 White House Chapel Lane, Mickleton, near Chipping Campden, GL55 6SD An Arts and Crafts inspired cottage garden encircles the house and is arranged in a series of informal rooms. It includes a rose garden, holly-pop walk, sunken terrace and a collection of topiary faces originally established by the artist Richard Sorrell.

The garden has been designed to offer peaceful sitting areas from which to enjoy the plants or simply relax.

Open: Saturday 6, Sunday 7 & Sunday 14 June, from 11am–4pm.

Wortley House Wortley, near Wotton-Under-Edge, GL12 7QP This diverse garden of over 20 acres has been created through the last 30 years by the current owners and includes a walled garden, pleached lime avenues, nut walk, potager, ponds, Italian garden, shrubberies and wild flower meadows.

Follies, urns and statues have been strategically

Seend Head House

placed throughout, creating wonderful vistas.

Open: Tuesday 23 June, from 2pm–5pm.

Pre-booking is essential: please call the owners on 01483 211535.

Full details of all gardens participating in the 2015 National Gardens Scheme are listed in the NGS Yellow Book as well as online at ngs.org.uk

Hendy Curzon.co.uk Town & Country Gardens

Turning Visions into Reality Landscape Contractors Tel: 01285 654766 Tel. 01993 886915

info@hendycurzon.co.uk Cotswold preview APRIL 15

www.estatesandgardens.co.uk Baunton Lane, Cirencester, Glos. GL7 7BG

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A cloud pruned hedge

GARDEN DESIGN TIPS

by Andrew Jordan

10 Improvements To Your Garden Gardens are an extension of our living space but they often end up the poor relation of houses when it comes to money spent on improvements. However, thoughtful landscaping can improve your enjoyment of your home as well as luring potential buyers if you decide to move. Indeed, research has shown that a well kept and well designed outdoor space can add 10–15% to a property’s sale price. Here, professional garden designer Andrew Jordan suggests ten ways to give your garden some extra wow factor…

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1.

garden design tips… 10 Improvements To Your Garden

Boundaries Solid but ugly boundaries such as walls or sturdy fences can be clad, for example using trellis planted with climbers. Dramatic combinations can be made by painting the wall or fence in one colour and training over it a clematis or rose in a contrasting colour. For a more contemporary feel, panels of hornbeam (available from specialist nurseries) can be used. Charred timber fences (use a blow torch and a strong wire brush for rubbing back) have a lovely finish or, alternatively, you could spray fencing a deep graphite grey colour.

2.

Views Garden boundaries are also linked to views. If you enjoy a good view, for example toward rolling hills or a church spire, you may want to enhance this through framing. You could plant small trees or large shrubs either side of the view, or make ’windows’ through existing hedges.

If the budget allows, you could build a moon gate – a circular opening in a garden wall. My advice when it comes to a bad view is not to try to entirely block it, as this can actually draw attention to it.

Instead, fade it out through softening by planting shrubs or small trees.

A pleached laurel hedge

3.

Trees & shrubs Another inexpensive way to create a new look in your garden is to manage existing shrubs and trees. In my own garden, I had an old Portuguese laurel hedge which I didn’t particularly like. I set about cutting all the lower branches, leaving clear stems. Not only did this improve the overall appearance but it also opened up space underneath for additional planting. By exposing the underlying structure and lifting the canopies of trees and shrubs, a wonderful and mysterious world is revealed. This is a good idea especially in small and narrow spaces. Another option is to prune shrubs and hedges into more interesting shapes, for example cloud pruning. This then provides something eye-catching throughout the seasons.

Views of the landscape beyond this garden

4.

Pots & containers Pots and containers add value to your outside space and are a practical way of decorating roofs, decks and balconies as well 4

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Weathered decking

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garden design tips… 10 Improvements To Your Garden

Wall-mounted water feature

as the moreusual ground level areas. “The bigger the better” is the rule of thumb, since plants need a lot of root space, water and stability from the wind. A larger size also helps to minimise how much human effort is required to keep them going. Tired terracotta pots can easily be updated with a lick of paint, making them attractive centrepieces. And the right pot, for example an old oil jar, provides a sculptural element within your garden even without any planting.

fire pit or hot tub invariably helps to extend the use of a garden into the evenings and throughout the seasons.

6.

Paving A good quality outdoor floor, such as decking or natural stone paving, can add value as well as style to your outdoor space. Strengthen4

5.

Entertaining area To make your garden a true extension of your home, include something functional. This could be a paved entertaining area with space for a dining table and chairs. You might also consider building an outdoor ’kitchen’. For example, pizza ovens are easy to build and can be used as a woodfired fireplace even if you aren’t cooking. Alternatively, a sunken

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Stone water trough

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Experience

Aston Pottery

EAT

SHOP

EXPLORE

EXPERIENCE

Working Pottery

Gardens

Shopping

Country Café

Our pottery is designed and made on-site using 300 year old mould-making and slip-casting techniques for teapot and jug production.

It is hand-decorated by our team of specialist painters.

Come and have a tour of the pottery and see for yourself how it is all done.

One of the gardens is planned within a hornbeam walk and planted in a contemporary double border fashion. The second is a more traditional cottage style border by a Cotswold wall.

These will be full of colour from May onwards. Come and be inspired!

Our fabulous new showroom displays all our pottery patterns under one roof – 140 in total – some over 20 years old and still going strong. Also on display are a carefully selected range of contemporary gifts for family and friends including jewellery, bags, textiles and much, much more.

Take a break in our spacious Country Café, which serves a wide variety of delicious food, cooked daily in our kitchen using traditional Oxfordshire recipes. Taste our stunning savoury pies and flans – try our sweet homemade biscuits and some of the best cakes you will ever taste!

Opening Hours 7 days a week, Monday to Saturday 9am–5pm and Sundays and Bank Holidays 10.30am–5pm We are a 5 minute drive from Witney on the B4449 between Standlake and Bampton.

Aston Pottery, Kingsway Farm, Bampton Road, Aston, Oxfordshire OX18 2BT

Visit us on Facebook to see our latest designs and displays: www.facebook.com/AstonPottery

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www.astonpottery.co.uk or call 01993 852031 131

garden design tips… 10 Improvements To Your Garden out or leave it to age naturally to blend with the landscape. A less expensive option could be to convert an existing shed or to buy a basic shed then dress it up to suit your requirements.

8.

A sunken fire pit

the link between the inside and outside by using a similar flooring, material or colour choice. In a small space, paving in the same material as the surrounding walls gives a unified look. It is important to bear in mind that some materials, such as smooth precast pavers, become slippery in rain and snow whilst others, like brick, provide a good foothold. And if you have to contend with uneven ground, you could use gravel to avoid enormous amounts of levelling.

7.

Garden structures Creating shelter from the sun, wind or rain can allow your garden to be used regardless of the weather. A pergola planted with climbers provides dappled shade but little protection from driving rain. By contrast, a gazebo or summerhouse offers protection from all weathers and there are many different shapes and sizes from which to choose.

You can either paint the structure to make it stand

9.

Water Every garden, no matter its size, should have a water feature. It can provide a focal point and place to relax with the sound of running water. If space is an issue, you could install a water plaque, or convert one of the many stone troughs which are readily available in the Cotswolds. A water feature has the added benefit of encouraging wildlife into your garden.

Lighting Lighting in any form can improve your garden, extending its usefulness into the evening.

Strategically placed lights enable you to eat, read or simply potter about outside on warm spring and autumn evenings. If you can see your garden from inside your home, you also get to enjoy a night-time view all year round. From spotlights to tea lights or oversized lanterns, stylish decorative lighting needn’t cost the earth.

10.First impressions count, so don’t neglect The front garden

your front garden. One of the easiest ways to keep it tidy and well presented is to plant slow-growing plants that don’t need much maintenance. You could also include a statement gate or some architectural planting such as topiary to wow any visitors.

Andrew Jordan is an RHS award winning garden designer based near Cirencester. He works on a wide range of garden design projects, from contemporary to more traditional, and from courtyard and city gardens to large rural and country gardens. His garden design practice encompasses all areas of design such as creative consultancy, outline design, master plans, water features, lighting design and planting plans. Project monitoring and garden maintenance advice are also available. For more details, call 01285 810756 or visit andrewjordangardendesign.com

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www.aquastonepf.co.uk tel:01666 841155 info@aquastonepf.co.uk

Beautifully Unique Natural Finishes Specialists in providing unique, natural interior and exterior finishes for swimming pools and wet areas.

Finishes include natural stone, ceramics, mosaics, resin bound flooring and PebbleTec®, the worlds most trusted premium finish.

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A leading Prep School with Day, Weekly, Flexible and Full Boarding opportunities for girls and boys aged 3–13

Saturday 9th May 2015 @ 10.00am

Whole School Open Day

Bank Holiday Monday 4 May 2015, 9.30am – 4.30pm

No appointment necessary.

Alternatively, for a private visit, please contact our Registrar, Katherine Cox, on 01684 544108 or by email to registrar@thedowns.malcol.org www.thedownsmalvern.org.uk

To reserve a place contact the Admissions Office Email: admissions@tudorhallschool.com Telephone: 01295 756284 @TudorHallSchool

/TudorHallSchool www.tudorhallschool.com

A registered charity Reg No 1042783

DAY & BOARDING BOYS and GIRLS AGES 3-18

At Sibford School we respect every pupil and seek to create a passion for life-long learning.

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Friday 1 May from 9.45am

An outstanding day and boarding school for students aged 11–18

for further information call Elspeth on 01295 781203 or email:egregory@sibfordschool.co.uk.

Burford School

Sibford School, Sibford Ferris, Banbury OX15 5QL Telephone 01295 781203

www.burford.oxon.sch.uk admin.4040@burford.oxon.sch.uk | 01993 823303

www.sibfordschool.co.uk 134

Founded 1571

Cheltenham Road, Burford, Oxfordshire OX18 4PL

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family matters

Editor’s choice: children’s selection School reports Family matters feature: schools in harmony Legal comment: withy king Cotswold preview APRIL 15

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In and around Stratford-upon-Avon, the Shakespeare family homes have lots of children’s activities lined up for the Easter holidays. For example, there is a new family activity tent at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage; at Mary Arden’s Farm, children can have a go at archery, egg painting and Tudor games; and at Shakespeare’s Birthplace, they can dress up to perform in five minute plays with Shakespeare Aloud!, a professional acting troupe. For full details of opening times and ticket prices, visit shakespeare.org.uk

Editor’s Choice

Family friendly recommendations for the Easter holidays…

Already popular in the USA, Little Passports’ monthly travel packages are now available in the UK. The concept is simple and appealing: you choose a subscription for your little one(s) and then they receive a package by post each month, including souvenirs, luggage tags and stickers. Guaranteed to broaden horizons – just don’t expect to get away with holidays in Cornwall again.

For details, visit littlepassports.com

Dyrham Park, the National Trust property near Bath, recently opened a natural outdoor play area for children and a new trail for families to follow through the property’s parkland. The play area is in a wooded area known as Hollow Ways, not far from the house. It features a fun range of wooden structures such as a giant see-saw, balancing beams and stepping stones – ideal for burning off some of that Easter egg fuelled energy. Dyrham Park: 0117 937 2501 / SN14 8ER / nationaltrust.org.uk

For an active day out, we can also personally recommend Far Peak Climbing Centre (formerly Wild Rock), near Northleach.

Little ones can practice scaling its indoor walls as well as its new 15m outdoor climbing tower. Far Peak: wildrockclimbing.co.uk

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Editor’s Choice… children’s selection We love these cute chocolate bunnies in woolly jumpers – part of Carluccio’s range of seasonal treats. To mark Easter, the restaurant chain is also hosting biscuit decorating classes for children, followed by all-important taste tests. Locally, these are being held on Tuesday 7 April in Stratford-upon-Avon (9:30am), Bath and Bicester (both 10:30am) and Leamington Spa (4pm). Places are £10 per child. All children must be accompanied by an adult, but you are encouraged to relax over a coffee while they get creative (messy). For further details, visit carluccios.com

The National Trust’s Woodchester Park, near Stonehouse, is hosting its first Easter egg hunt this year, with bird themed trails leading families through the woods and play-trail to a chocolate reward. You can follow the trails from 11am–2pm between Monday 30 March and Monday 6 April.

Woodchester Park: 01452 814213 / GL10 3TS / nationaltrust.org.uk

Berkeley Castle re-opens for 2015 on Wednesday 1 April and launches straight into a week full of events called ‘Dragons at Easter’. These include a dragon hunt through the castle and grounds, themed arts and crafts, workshops and – on Easter Sunday and Monday – the chance to join in a Chinese dragon parade.

Berkeley Castle: 01453 512999 / GL13 9BH / berkeley-castle.com

Over Easter, Heritage Motor Centre is hosting Shaun the Sheep: The Movie automotive adventures, allowing junior visitors to star in their own movie trailer and help write the opening of a sequel. Family Craft days on Thursday 2 and 9 April (10:30am–3pm) also feature Shaun inspired crafts and teach the basics of animation. And for young Lego fanatics, Lego Technic on Tuesday 7 April (10am–3pm) is a chance to build and speed-test their own designs. All activities are free of charge but normal admission charges apply. Heritage Motor Centre: 01926 641188 / CV35 0BJ / heritage-motor-centre.co.uk

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school reports

s c h o o l

r e p o rt s

We celebrate local schools’ recent milestones and successes as well as upcoming highlights…

Abingdon School, Abingdon 01235 521563 / OX14 1DE / abingdon.org.uk A tale of friendly rivalry between two sixth formers at Abingdon School: Michael Dewar (pictured right) and Theo Brophy Clews (pictured left), recently faced each other in an England versus Scotland U18 rugby international.

Michael was making his international debut and started at open-side for Scotland. Theo had been selected to captain the English team and on the day led them to a 39–27 victory. He was also awarded Man of the Match.

Dauntsey’s School, near Devizes 01380 814500 / SN10 4HE / dauntseys.org Congratulations go to Dauntsey’s School cheerleading team, The Dauntsey’s Dynamites, following their win at the Legacy Cheerleading and Dance Southern Regional Competition. The team of 29 cheerleaders had travelled to Crystal Palace to compete against other groups from across the region. Kirsty Glynn, the school’s Head of Dance commented, “The girls were thrilled to be awarded first place in their division. The judges were very impressed with the team’s performances and this is a testament to the hard work they have put in and the progress they have made over the last 12 months.” The team now goes on to compete in the National rounds of the competition in June.

Sibford School, near Banbury 01295 781200 / OX15 5QL / sibfordschool.co.uk On the eve of World Book Day in March, the author and broadcaster Simon Mayo visited Sibford School to chat to students about his book trilogy Itch, Itch Rocks and Itchcraft. Sibford pupils from Years 5 to 9 as well as pupils from other local primary schools were present to hear Mayo speak about his character Itchingham Lofte, a 14 year old boy who collects elements. Sibford student Sophie Hills said afterwards, “The talk was really inspiring. Not only did we learn about his stories but he also taught us a lot about the different elements in the periodic table.”

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family matters feature‌ schools in harmony

Schools inharmony We examine the approaches taken by leading Cotswold schools to keep music relevant for the next generation‌

Warwick School

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’’

Airthrie School: Young Voices 2015

Beaudesert Park School

For me, the best thing about music is performing. I love everything about it – the rush of adrenaline, the butterflies in my stomach and the enjoyment it brings.

I’m grateful to be at a school which offers so many opportunities to perform…

’’

The Downs Malvern

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St Edward’s School, Oxford

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family matters feature… schools in harmony

Burford School

The Cotswold School

The King’s School, Gloucester

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In an age when the arts face ever-tightening budgets, music seems to be battling to retain its status in public life. Happily, though, it remains a vital component in many schools, with the subject spanning music theory and group activities as well as individual instrumental tuition.

The discipline of learning a musical instrument at school is often considered the first step towards a lifetime interest in music. Pupils now have the advantage of being able to choose from a wide range of instruments, including the traditional choices such as piano, violin and flute, as well as more exotic options – harp, anyone? One of the key benefits of learning to play an instrument is that it teaches pupils from an early age the rewards of perseverance. The opportunity to play in a chamber group or orchestra also helps foster team work.

Fiona Hudson, Head of Music at Sibford School, near Banbury, underlines the broader importance of music in the school’s curriculum: “As an integral part of culture, both past and present, music helps pupils to understand themselves and relate to others, forging important links between home, school and the wider world.”

Karen Taylor, Director of Music at Beaudesert Park School in Minchinhampton, feels passionately about the emotional benefits of music. She explains, “I believe music can be a powerful force for good in children’s lives. It can help children to connect, relax, learn and express themselves as well – whether they’re making their own music, watching professional musicians or simply humming along to a tune.” Music can provide lots of4

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A workshop with Evelyn Glennie at Dauntsey’s School

Warwick School

Sibford School

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social opportunities, too, leading in many cases to life-long friendships.

At Airthrie School, in Cheltenham, well over a third of pupils learn to play an instrument.

The Headmaster, David Lloyd, as a professional musician himself, is keen to highlight the latest research into the increase in cognitive development that results from learning an instrument. Vocal and instrumental activities help promote a pupil’s independent learning, self-discipline, hand-eye co-ordination and attention to detail. The art of performance is key, too: this builds strength of character and confidence and helps with all areas of presentation. From the performer’s perspective, this sentiment is echoed by Sydonie Brewis, a sixth form pupil at Sibford School. She says, “For me, the best thing about music is performing. I love everything about it – the rush of adrenaline, the butterflies in my stomach and the enjoyment it brings. I’m grateful to be at a school which offers so many opportunities to perform.”

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family matters feature… schools in harmony

Tudor Hall School

Mr Frankcom, Head of Music at Burford School, says, “As we have a large and varied range of musical events throughout the year, our challenge is not how to encourage students to get involved and take part but how to adequately showcase the large number of students who want to perform.” In early 2014, the Director of the County Music Service in Oxfordshire asked Burford School if it would become a musical hub for the area because of the outstanding music already taking place there and the school’s desire to share that expertise and enthusiasm with others. The Burford Institute of Music was established to harness the talent, experience and facilities of the school, and to develop outstanding opportunities for those with an interest in and a commitment to music. Through this scheme, seven local primary schools have taken up the opportunity to send students to Burford School for individual music tuition followed by the chance to play in an ensemble.

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The opportunity to enjoy and sample music at an early age is fostered by many schools throughout the region. For example, at Warwick School, every boy entering Year 7 receives a free music lesson. Simon Hogg, the school’s Director of Music (Performance) says, “Boys are encouraged to fulfil their academic and musical potential, a gift they can enjoy for the rest of their lives. We put music at the heart of every boy’s social, intellectual and spiritual development.” Sunday Lendis, a musically talented Year 11 pupil at The Cotswold School, in Bourton-on-the-Water, says, “Here, the music department is very encouraging to younger students as soon as they come to the school, to get everyone engaged from the beginning.”

Much of the music being performed in schools such as The Cotswold School is student led. Students often form their own bands – from jazz to rock – and regularly perform at school events and at private functions. Fiona Hudson of Sibford School adds, “We encourage4

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music making in any genre and it is often student led.

For example, last year one of our students appeared at the NEC in Birmingham as part of the Open Mic UK competition.”

For the most committed performers, taking part in music making outside school can involve auditioning for regional or national orchestras and choirs. These hold regular rehearsals which help improve technical skills and broaden repertoire as well as being very sociable and fun (just ask members about their tours).

A major development in schools’ approach to music education is their use of technology. One of the great advances over the past several years has been in the range of music software and hardware available, allowing pupils to develop their musical understanding and creativity. John Pennington, Director of Music at King’s, Gloucester, says, “We are lucky to have a music lab of PCs all running the latest Sibelius 7.5 score writing software. This enables pupils at GCSE and A level to compose using a wide range of orchestral and popular sounds to create their compositions. Their ideas can be recorded into fully notated scores and edited easily. The final product can be played back with virtual sounding instruments and then downloaded. We also use a large variety of music based websites which we access as part of our curriculum, for example ear-training sites to help with Aural. These resources really aid our pupils in developing their musical knowledge, alongside the more traditional music tuition on offer at the school.”

Burford School

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Alex Tester, Director of Music at St Edward’s School, Oxford, agrees. He says, “The biggest rise for us is in music technology: it’s wonderful to see pupils taking a lead in productions in our professional theatre or in our studio, and amazing to see the creativity put into their own composition work. But it’s interesting to see that most of the pupils still also enjoy taking a traditional instrument to a high level. They understand the links between being a performing musician and a recording engineer, and how both skills are important in the musical world these days. One informs the other.”

At Beaudesert Park School, iPads are used in tandem with GarageBand app, a music composition programme. Karen Taylor says, “Most children are super-fast at picking up on new technologies and GarageBand means we can use iPads like musical instruments to accompany our own music and record it.” The current crop of singer-songwriters in the media spotlight seems to be inspiring a new generation of multi-talented musicians, too. Ms Taylor adds, “We’re definitely seeing a surge of boys and girls keen to learn the acoustic guitar so that they can play and sing along at the same time!”

At The Downs, Malvern, there is a dedicated music technology suite within the music school where pupils can access training software used to reinforce skills and techniques introduced within the lessons. Additionally, the school takes the lead in encouraging its pupils’ musical appreciation by organising workshops and outings to hear professional musicians perform.

A recent trip was to Cheltenham’s Pittville Pump Room where pupils in Year 6 took part in a Gamelan workshop to support their study of music from Indonesia.

At Burford School, too, pupils participate in music workshops as well as performing with students from The Royal College of Music in the annual season of Lenthall Concerts. At Tudor Hall, the girls regularly go to see musical productions such at The Lion King, The Sound of Music and Wicked. Alex Tester, of St Edward’s, Oxford, comments, “Having the university colleges, the Sheldonian, the Holywell and various concert and theatre venues on our doorstep here in Oxford makes it easy to support pupils’ music with trips

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family matters feature… schools in harmony to see major performances, both by the university and by world-class visiting performers. Once again, it’s a case of finding the right thing to inspire the right pupil. We also regularly go further afield, particularly in regular trips to Garsington Opera and the Royal Opera House. Performance wise, we’ve enjoyed links with the English Chamber Orchestra and the South Bank Sinfonia, and have performed at Cadogan Hall, the Royal Albert Hall and St John’s, Smith Square. We continue to be ambitious: it’s amazing what pupils can achieve if you give them the opportunities to shine.”

Dauntsey’s School, near Devizes, often has external musicians coming in to talk to pupils and a particular highlight last year was a workshop led by the acclaimed percussionist Evelyn Glennie. In the past academic year, the school also held 33 music competitions, concerts, recitals or masterclasses.

We certainly believe that music should be encouraged at every stage of a pupil’s schooling.

At the individual level, the importance of this is underlined by the comment made by a current Year 8 pupil at The Downs, Malvern. When asked what he likes most about the school’s music department, he replied, “The time you spend there is magical – it’s easy to get lost in the music.” With this kind of endorsement, it’s clear that music is safe in the hands of the next generation.

Contact details: Airthrie School: 01242 512837 / GL50 2NY / airthrie-school.co.uk Beaudesert Park School: 01453 832072 / GL6 9AF / beaudesert.gloucs.sch.uk Burford School: 01993 823303 / OX18 4PL / burford.oxon.sch.uk Dauntsey’s School: 01380 814500 / SN10 4HE / dauntseys.org Sibford School: 01295 781200 / OX15 5QL / sibfordschool.co.uk St Edward’s School, Oxford: 01865 319204 / OX2 7NN / stedwardsoxford.org The Cotswold School: 01451 820554 / GL54 2BD / cotswold.gloucs.sch.uk The Downs, Malvern: 01684 544100 / WR13 6EY / thedownsmalvern.org.uk The King’s School, Gloucester: 01452 337337 / GL1 2BG / thekingsschool.co.uk Tudor Hall School: 01295 263434 / OX16 9UR / tudorhallschool.com Warwick School: 01926 776400 / CV34 6PP / warwickschool.org

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Every day is open day

Small class sizes, individual learning and superb facilities lead to life-changing opportunities and excellent results. Daily mini bus service available.

Wycliffe Nursery, Preparatory, Senior School & Sixth Form Co-educational day and boarding school for 2 – 18 years To find out more, or to arrange a visit please contact: Charlotte Phillips (Senior) on 01453 820412 or Wendy Robertson (Preparatory) on 01453 820471.

Stonehouse, Gloucestershire GL10 2JQ Twitter @WycliffeCollege

www.wycliffe.co.uk 145

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Lawyers ahead of the curve Lawyers ahead ofcurve the curve Lawyers ahead of the APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

23/05/2014

legal comment

Lawyers ahead of the curve

23/05/2014 16:07:05

Helping your child onto the property ladder

Anne Battson, Partner, Withy King

As spring approaches, with house prices continuing to rise and the market heating up again, many first-time buyers are still unable to get a foot on the housing ladder. Despite stamp duty reforms and various incentives, many people are unable to afford their own home and are turning to their parents for help…

Anne Battson, a partner in the residential property team at Oxford law firm Withy King, provides food for thought to those thinking of making a financial contribution towards buying a property.

best but if your daughter needs to borrow from a ‘High Street’ lender, it is likely that the lender will not agree to your second mortgage.

Gift Any gift will have to be disclosed to the lender your daughter selects for a mortgage.

Invest If you would like to invest in your daughter’s property, there are two options: 1. Full co-ownership – if you co-own the property and your daughter requires a mortgage, you will be a party to that mortgage and therefore jointly liable for it.

2. A share in the beneficial interest – if you simply wish to have a share in the sale proceeds then your daughter will own the property on trust for you and herself in shares that you specify. These shares are usually recorded in a document which will also cover what might happen if one party wants to sell and how any decrease in value would be shared.

Loan If you decide to lend money you will want it properly secured. A formal mortgage would be

Whichever investment option you choose, Capital Gains Tax may be payable on your share of the property on a re-sale.

Q: My daughter would like to buy her first home and I would like to help her out financially but wonder how best to do it. What are the main issues to consider?

A: You will need to decide whether you would like to gift, loan or invest the money. Each decision has different implications which you will need to explore properly.

For advice on any residential property issue or help with your conveyancing, please contact Anne Battson at Withy King on 01865 792300 or email anne.battson@withyking.co.uk

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APRIL 15 Cotswold preview

style&lifestyle

Editor’s choice: fashion & beauty Style feature: turning heads Editor’s choice: food & drink Chef profile: nick deverell-smith Inn profile: the church street townhouse Food & drink feature: a passion for chocolate Recommended books by: octavia’s bookshop The preview interview: will hadland Specialist business profile: whichford pottery New business profile: contenta therapies My cotswolds: keith beckingham Cotswold preview APRIL 15

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Editor’s Choice… Fashion & Beauty

Angelo Caroli, also known as King of Vintage, is the Italian founder of A.N.G.E.L.O. – Europe’s largest archive of vintage fashion. This spring, A.N.G.E.L.O. is set to tour the UK for the first time with a series of pop-ups showcasing the vintage fashion collections, alongside a curated Timeless Style exhibition which celebrates fashion and style through the ages. At Swindon Designer Outlet, it forms the basis for a vintage fashion festival running from Thursday 30 April until Sunday 17 May. There are special VIP events on the weekend of 2–3 May including a ‘swap area’ where you can bring your own vintage items to have them evaluated, with an option to exchange them for A.N.G.E.L.O. vintage items of the same value. For further details, visit mcarthurglengroup.com

Editor’s Choice

Our selection of spring’s top style and beauty news…

Best known for its naturally fragranced candles, the Wiltshire based company True Grace has just launched True Being toiletries. As scent is very strongly associated with memory and emotion, the science behind the range is that specific fragrances can have a very uplifting effect.

These scents were inspired by the English countryside, with names such as Rose Absolute and Seashore, so if you’re a country-loving type, one of them may get your neural receptors firing. For local stockist details, visit truegrace.co.uk

The term ‘facelift in a bottle’ is applied rather freely to skincare products these days, so when we heard about Environ’s latest Revival Masque (£49.95 / 50ml) – which is promoted using these very words – it had to work hard to prove itself.

Reporting back, we have to admit that we are impressed. As with all Environ’s vitamin-rich formulations, it contains enough active ingredients (in this case, Asiatic, Lactic and Mandelic acids) to make a visible difference to the skin.

Call 020 8450 2020 for local stockist details.

One of our favourite shops in Nailsworth, James Lear of Arundel, has started stocking a fabulous range of British made, soft grain leather bags for men. It includes this Satchel (£75) as well as a roomy Weekend bag (£160) and the best selling Messenger bag (ideal for laptops, £99.95). James Lear of Arundel: 01453 835941 / GL6 0BL / jamesleararundel.co.uk

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style feature‌ turning heads

heads

turning As the saying goes, hair is your crowning glory.

Or at least it should be!

If you are considering refreshing your style this spring, here are some useful tips from hair expert Tabitha James Kraan, founder of TJK Organic Hairdressing in Stow-on-the-Wold‌

Tabitha James Kraan styling a model

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A consultation with your hairdresser is always the first step in updating your hairstyle. They can see how you wear your hair, look at the shape of your face and your skin tone, and determine how much time you are willing to spend on maintenance.

Here are some professional tips for ways to update your look for the new spring season.

PONY TAIL One of the strongest trends from London Fashion Week SS’15 catwalks is the pony tail, which is a versatile, wearable style that’s easy to create for any occasion. Current trends have a hint of geisha by sculpting the pony tail loosely on the back of the head or by going for a knot with string or ribbon, clearing the shoulders.

The pony tail can also be worn low down on the nape and plaited as seen at New York fashion week. This look was inspired by the 1950s popart movement.

For a twist on the traditional pony, wear it fastened all the way down, tying elastics at equal intervals. Puff each section out by teasing with your fingers as you go to add texture.

One of the best ways to show off a gorgeous ombre colour is with a sleek centre-parted pony tail

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brought forward over one shoulder. Or for a playful ’90s inspired look, leave a few strands of your hair loose from a low ponytail or bun.

Braided styles were also big on the SS’15 catwalks and are a great way to keep hair off your face on hot beach holidays.

FRINGE Play hide and seek with an eye-skimming fringe, with soft longer layers around the face for an on-trend ’70s inspired look. Fringes in general are a great way to update your look.

COLOUR As the weather improves, honey hues go perfectly with sun-kissed skin and glossy lips: wear you hair in a centre-parting for a fuss free, ethereal look.

Platinum blonde locks may be prone to showing up roots, but don’t feel you have to hide them – slick hair back into a low chignon to show off the contrast in colours. Experiment too with plaits and braids to give sunny locks an edgier feel. ’Sombre’ is the new ombre, so rather than bleaching your tips, work with your natural tones to cleverly colour your hair, creating a soft grown-in flow from your natural to coloured hair.

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style feature… turning heads A porcelain complexion is flattered by lightening hair to a blonde with red undertones, and rich caramel-brown shades also add warmth to fair complexions.

Mousy shades come alive in the summertime, as the sun picks up both the natural highlights and lowlights. If you can’t wait, add some soft baby-lights to your look for a luxe colour. Or, if you are tired of being too light, try our Watercolour to take your hair back to a truly natural hue and combine that with subtle baby-lights.

Tabitha James Kraan Organic Hairdressing salon in Stow-on-the-Wold A rich red-brown gives the illusion of body, so is great for fine hair types. If you to the swept-over side using a curling wand and are thinking of going red, you might alternatively brush through to give a soft finish. light to ease yourself in with a pretty strawberry• Loose waves are best worn with a slightly offblonde shade. centre relaxed parting for a real model-off-duty A final tip when it comes to hair colour: look: curl hair in different directions around a organic colouring allows you to play with the tones wand to avoid uniform waves. without compromising your hair condition. You • Don’t be afraid of a severe side-parting: team can also treat your hair to a gloss treatment (we with nude eyes and strong red lips for a superrecommend our in-salon Organic Watercolour) to chic look. This is a great style for growing out create richer hues or deepen your tones and to add mid-length locks but can work really well on a serious boost of shine. And using TJK scented short hair, too. Try John Masters Styling Gel hair oil once a week helps keep the gloss and applied to dry hair, smoothed with the hands varnish those tones. and combed flat.

• Push loose, uneven waves back behind your STYLE IDEAS ears for a laid back look. Apply a little styling • An angled side-parted style, as spotted on the product to your fingertips and gently rub Chloé catwalk, is always pretty: add soft waves throughout sections of your hair to add texture.

Create soft, asymmetric waves in your hair by plaiting random sections of toweldried hair and leaving to dry overnight.

• Add waves to long glossy locks, and keep them off your face with a simple halo braid.

If you are not sure what to do with your locks, contact the experts for a free consultation!

Tabitha James Kraan

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Tabitha James Kraan Organic Hairdressing: 01451 831999 / GL54 1AA / tabithajameskraan.co.uk

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Editor’s Choice… FOOD & DRINK Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa, near Malmesbury, is hosting three special lunch events over the Easter weekend (3–6 April): a Good Friday Fish Lunch, Easter Sunday Lunch and Easter Monday Lunch.

Non-residents as well as hotel guests are welcome and can choose one, two or three courses from the à la carte menu in the brasserie, Le Mazot. If you have been very good during Lent, why not treat yourself to drinks in the hotel bar before lunch.

Afterwards, you are invited to relax in one of the hotel’s lounges or take time to explore the lovely gardens and grounds. Three courses in Le Mazot brasserie cost around £35 per person, with wines by the glass from £5.70. Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa: 01666 822888 / SN16 0RB / whatleymanor.com

Editor’s Choice

Foodie treats for Easter plus news of the latest restaurant awards…

With the greater good in mind, we have been applying ourselves to a hot cross bun taste test. Having now sampled a waist-expanding range from bakeries across the Cotswolds, we have two clear favourites: Hobbs House Bakery’s, which are very fruity and well spiced (£3.75 / six) and Daylesford Organic’s, made using spelt flour (£3.99 / four).

To make amends, our next taste test – after Easter – is of vegetable juices. Hobbs House Bakery in Chipping Sodbury, Nailsworth and Tetbury: hobbshousebakery.co.uk; Daylesford Organic Farmshop, near Kingham: daylesford.com

On the topic of Daylesford Organic, congratulations are due: it was recently named joint winner of the Sustainable Restaurant of the Year award for 2015. This recognises Daylesford’s ethos of sustainable farming and food at its two London cafés as well as at its Farmshop in the Cotswolds.

For full details about the awards, visit awards2015.thesra.org

On a recent visit to Cheltenham Farmers’ Market, we discovered Fair & Square’s moreishly good chocolate brownies, made using Fairtrade cocoa. They are available at other local farmers’ markets too: see fairtradebrownies.co.uk for details.

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wine warehouse

Great value wines for all occasions.

Helpful and friendly staff - always happy to offer advice and recommendations.

No minimum purchase

Near Chipping Camden

3

Bin Ends at The Bear of Rodborough Hotel (On the left as you enter the car park) Rodborough Common, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 5DE Tel: 01453 873786 Email: enquiries@binendsatthebear.co.uk

www.binendsatthebear.co.uk 10am - 8pm Monday - Saturday, 11am - 4pm Sunday, closed bank holidays

Life’s too short to drink bad wine

3 times North Cotswold Pub of the Year winner, 4 times runner up Two rosettes for food, 5 ensuite B&B rooms Open all day, every day Now brewing three of our own craft ales Ebrington, nr Chipping Campden Gloucestershire GL55 6NH

telephone: 01386 593 223 www.yubbinns.com

STEVEN FLETCHER

Tel: 01993 772123

www.blenheimfinewines.com 07775 938742

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14 Langdale Court, Witney, Oxon, OX28 6FG

www.clockworkshop.co.uk

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CHEF PROFILE

Nick Deverell-Smith The Churchill Arms in Paxford, near Chipping Campden, recently re-opened after a complete refurbishment. The new owner and head chef, Nick Deverell-Smith, has spent his career working in world-class Michelin starred kitchens and now brings this depth of experience to his own establishment.

Here, Nick tells us a little more about his background and his plans for The Churchill Arms…

Please could you tell us a little about your background and what first inspired you to become a chef?

I am a Warwickshire boy, originally from Henley in Arden and I went to school in Warwick when I was nine. It was at around this time, or even before, that I knew that cooking was in my heart. As an eight year old, I was baking cakes and making the family evening meals. This passion grew and I progressed from there.

Where and with whom did you train?

I began my career at Simpsons in Kennelworth under Andreas Antona. During my time there, the restaurant won its first Michelin star. From there I went on to Mallory Court to work under Simon Haigh where I rose to junior sous. Whilst at Mallory Court in 2006, I entered the Gordon Ramsay Scholarship and was the runner-up. As a result of this I was given the opportunity to work at Ramsay Holdings in London (restaurants including Petrus and Royal Hospital Road). I then worked for Marco Pierre White at his Stamford Bridge operation. After that, and after a great deal of persistence to get the job, I spent the

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most formative years of my career working with Eric Chavot at his two Michelin star restaurant at The Capitol Hotel in Knightsbridge. Working alongside Chavot opened my eyes to the scope and finesse of cooking, and I was then sent by him to oversee Chalet Blanc in Montgenevre. By this time, I knew I wanted to become a restaurateur so decided to move to The Soho House group in order to learn about the commercial side of the business from those who do it best. I worked at various sites as a head chef or senior sous chef including Dean Street Townhouse.

What is your favourite aspect of being a chef?

My answer to this question has changed as my career has progressed but the underlying reason remains the same: to see the joy on someone’s face when they experience something I’ve created.

What influences your cooking style?

My classical training underpins everything I do but now I seek to simplify and bring together flavours which work, keeping an eye on seasonality and working closely with my suppliers to deliver dynamic menu items.

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chef profile… Nick Deverell-Smith

The pub’s cosy interior

The Churchill Arms in Paxford

When and why did you decide to move back to the Cotswolds?

The Churchill Arms in Paxford is a pub which was always a family favourite when I was growing up, so when it became available last May the time felt right for me to return.

What have you found to be the main challenges in relaunching The Churchill Arms?

We have tried (and succeeded I think!) in giving the villagers a great local pub but the main challenge as a chef has been to re-establish the reputation of the Churchill’s food after the legacy left by Sonya Kidney.

Please can you give us some examples of what’s on your menu at the moment?

We do a wonderful free-standing chicken and mushroom pie, a pork T-bone with poached apple and crackling and a beautifully light smoked haddock soufflé with chive butter sauce.

Do you enjoy cooking at home and, if so, what do you like to make?

I love cooking for friends and family. I recently cooked a haunch of venison with truffle macaroni which went down an absolute storm!

If there was one person in the world for whom you could cook, who would it be and what would you cook for them?

It would be my eldest brother Paul, who passed away two years ago. We would sit at table 4 (the

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A dish on the menu at The Churchill Arms

table where we would sit as a family), share a Beef Wellington and a few bottles of Barolo. He would certainly have liked that.

If you hadn’t chosen to become a chef, what else would you have liked to be?

Definitely something creative, perhaps a photographer.

From the restaurant’s menu at the moment, please choose your favourite dish and tell us why you would recommend it.

It has to be my chicken pie for its full flavour (which comes from poaching the chickens in their own stock), the depth of texture from the different mushrooms and the crisp pastry. It is a work of art, though I say so myself!

The Churchill Arms, Paxford: 01386 593159 / GL55 6XH / churchillarms.co

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INN PROFILE

The Church Street Townhouse

This boutique hotel with an all-day bistro, two bars and 12 luxury en suite bedrooms is set in an historic building right in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon…

Housed in a 400 year old, Grade II listed building, The Church Street Townhouse provides a central base from which to enjoy Stratford-upon-Avon’s history and culture. It is located just a minute’s walk from the bustling town centre and two minutes from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

The building is of great architectural interest and consists of two distinct styles. To the rear, the rooms on all three floors date back to 1600, featuring typically low, beamed ceilings; the rooms at the front of the building were added more recently – in 1768 – and have the telltale high ceilings and sash windows of that period. The oak staircase was also built during the Georgian extension, along with the roof lantern at the top of the stairwell. In 1840, the façade of the building then underwent a facelift: the top was castellated and the ogee windows were created, all in the gothic style that was the fashion of the day.

16 Church Street was originally built for a burgess called John Sadler but the building

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has, over the years, been home to a family of wealthy lawyers, the Town Clerk and the Clerk of the Peace for Warwickshire. Before the site was re-developed in 2009, it had become commercial premises and housed a dental practice on the ground floor and an accountancy firm on the top two floors.

After a huge programme of refurbishment, the doors to The Church Street Townhouse opened in July 2010. The building work successful retained the property’s period charm, with all rooms featuring lovely architectural details and some quirky fittings such as an 18th century bread oven in the Library Bar. The way in which the original structure has been stylishly updated is now one of The Townhouse’s main appeals.

The boutique hotel offers fine dining, two cosy bars and a dozen luxurious bedrooms. If you love old world atmosphere, room three is the pick of the rooms with its heavily beamed ceiling and roll top bath. The Townhouse’s rooms vary in size,

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inn profile… The Church Street Townhouse

view and price but all have en suite bathrooms and superking beds for a good night’s rest.

Of the two bars, the Library Bar provides the ideal venue for an intimate drink, with comfortable armchairs and homely bookshelves, whilst the Blue Bar is lighter and airier, enjoying views across the street to the ancient black and white half-timbered buildings for which the area is famous. The bars offer a wide selection of wines, whiskies, craft beers, Champagnes and soft drinks as well as a menu of tasty, fast bar snacks.

On weekdays, the piano in the Blue Bar is played for an hour or so by music students from the King Edward VI School opposite the hotel, which was the school William Shakespeare attended.

The hotel also has a Sunday night music club from 8pm to 10pm, with various bands playing acoustic sets, and a very popular Champagne Happy Hour at 5pm on Fridays, offering house Champagne at £20 a bottle and Prosecco at £15 a bottle.

Head chef Andrew Taylor and his team pride themselves on using fresh and seasonal ingredients for the bar and bistro menus and work closely with local suppliers. Food is served in the dining room and both bars from 8am to 11am and 12 noon to 10pm, and non-residents as well as guests are welcome.

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Since The Church Street Townhouse is so close to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, it is the ideal destination for an early meal before performances. Pre-theatre diners can choose from either the special set menu or the à la carte menu. Signature dishes on the bistro menu include oat-crusted calves liver with smoked garlic mash, spinach and fairground onions and, for the carnivore, sirloin steaks served from the grill.

Gluten free options are also a speciality and a range of gluten free beers is available.

The Church Street Townhouse is open seven days a week. For non-residents, its hours are 8am–11pm on Sunday to Thursday and 8am–12pm on Friday and Saturday.

The Church Street Townhouse: 01789 262222 / CV37 6HB / churchstreettownhouse.com

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A passion

FOR chocolate

Benjamin Chocolatier

With Easter treats in mind, we profile four of the Cotswolds’ top chocolatiers and discover what makes their creations stand out from the crowd…

As the saying goes, “Once you consume chocolate, chocolate will consume you.” Chocolate has held us under its spell for thousands of years, certainly since the South Americans started harvesting the cacao bean back in 1900 BC. By the 20th century, it had become a popular staple worldwide and was, for example, included in the rations of United States soldiers during the Second World War. Its appeal, aside from the immediate sweetness of taste, is due to the fact that cocoa

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solids are one of the richest sources of flavanol antioxidants. These are known to affect serotonin levels in the brain, resulting in a somewhat addictive feel-good factor. Sounds familiar? It is not surprising then that chocolate is produced and consumed by the bucket-load around the world.

In the UK, the last 10 years have seen a large increase in the number of ’boutique’ chocolatiers who hand make their creations using premium couverture. At the other end of the

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food & drink feature… a passion for chocolate scale, large brands such as Cadbury’s and Nestle still dominate, with high street retailers such as Thorntons, Chococo and Hotel Chocolat taking the middle ground and prestige labels like Green and Black’s, Montezuma’s, Prestat, Charbonnel et Walker, Divine and Godiva all widely available through delis and supermarkets. With so much chocolate on offer, what is the difference between these large-scale chocolate makers and the artisan chocolatiers?

Ben Axford, founder of Benjamin Chocolatiers, explains: “Chocolatiers generally produce chocolates in small batches with a high degree of human skill involved as opposed to the mechanised chocolate production used by most large-scale chocolate retailers. In addition to this, a chocolatier is more likely to be focused on the quality of the chocolate and its origin. Working with small batches allows the chocolatier to bring individuality and subtle nuances to the chocolate that would be unachievable in large-scale mechanised production.”

One of the world’s most famous chocoholics, author Roald Dahl, once said, “If I were a headmaster, I would get rid of the history teacher and get a chocolate teacher instead.” Here, we highlight four of our favourite local ’chocolate teachers’: LICK THE SPOON 01225 811125 / lickthespoon.co.uk Founded in 2006 by husband and wife team Diana and Matthew Short, Lick the Spoon has won Taste of the West’s Best Chocolate award a record three times in a row. The company’s chocolates are made by hand at its chocolate factory in Corsham, near Chippenham. Ingredients used include locally sourced organic Jersey cream and Raise Trade chocolate from Chocolat Madagascar.

This small-scale Madagascan chocolate maker works in partnership with a cooperative of growers to turn their cocoa beans into couverture. The resulting chocolate is as fresh as possible since the beans haven’t been transported around the world in vast shipping containers. Using a single origin chocolate also provides a distinctive flavour, comparable to selecting a fine wine from a certain region.

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Lick the Spoon supplies its chocolates to luxury stores and independent retailers and also sells through its own website. It is renowned for its very visual Easter eggs, for example making bespoke Fabergé style eggs for Harrods last year.

For 2015, Lick the Spoon’s new Luxury Easter Egg box contains a secret drawer which can be opened to reveal a selection of fresh chocolates. The range includes a milk chocolate filigree egg with salted caramels, a dark chocolate filigree egg with Champagne truffles, a milk chocolate honeycomb egg with honeycomb chocolate squares and a dark chocolate chilli egg with Aztec gold chilli and lime chocolates. For children, a new creature has joined the company’s Easter globe collection in the form of a Pixel Monster to accompany the Easter Chick, Easter Bunny, Spring Lamb and Piggy Wig. DOBLE AND BIGNALL 01242 679656 / dobleandbignall.co.uk Using raw cocoa beans, Simon Doble and Margie Bignall create their small batch chocolate, Bean to Bar, at premises just outside Cheltenham.

Not just chocolatiers, they are chocolate makers, undertaking the whole process ’from bean to bar’. Bignall explains how they became interested in chocolate production: “I heard an article on Radio 4 in June 2013 with Mott Green, the founder of The Grenada Chocolate Company.

He was talking about the poor conditions that many cocoa farmers live in and about his vision for micro-chocolate makers around the world using fairly traded cocoa beans to create artisan bean-tobar chocolate.4 An Easter creation by Lick the Spoon

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few months.” Doble and Bignall chocolates are available through regional stockists (full details are available online) and through its own website.

Doble and Bignall

He believed that any town that could support a micro-brewery could also support a micro-chocolate maker, because as many people like chocolate as beer – if not more! We were fascinated by the idea and tried making a batch of chocolate in a small, granite grinding machine and it tasted good: we were hooked. Our first bar of chocolate sold in April 2014 and we now have nearly 30 stockists.

The fascination and delight of transforming a small, brown bean into a delicious bar of chocolate never loses its ability to get us up in the morning.”

Doble and Bignall’s aim is to introduce people to a new chocolate experience: the pure flavour of individual varieties of cocoa beans, with flavours ranging from a typical ’chocolatey’ to fruit and nut, citrus, leather, tobacco and even tropical fruits. They use fairly traded, high quality ingredients and have control of the complete process, from the tropics to Gloucestershire. Bignall adds, “We are one of only about 10 small batch, bean-to-bar chocolate makers in the country.

Each chocolate we make has its own flavour profile and there are so many cocoa bean varieties out there that the possibilities are almost endless. Our next launch is a coffeeinfused dark chocolate, using coffee beans from a local company, and we will be bringing out a higher cocoa solids dark chocolate and a new cocoa bean in the next

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LOWRY’S ESPRESSO BAR AND CHOCOLATIER GL52 8RN / lowrysespresso.co.uk Dave and Catherine Elford opened Lowr y’s Espresso Bar and Chocolatier in Bishops Cleeve, near Cheltenham, last year. Making a career change from working in education, the pair now serve coffees, homemade cakes, sandwiches and, of course, chocolate, from their espresso bar in Tarlings Yard.

Dave Elford has a passion for making fresh chocolate entirely by hand in small batches, with natural flavours and no artificial preservatives. As the chocolates are so fresh, they are best eaten within two to three weeks (if you can make them last that long). He likes to develop fresh truffles, pralines and bars with exotic flavours and infusions, using quality couverture with a cocoa content rule of 30% minimum for milk chocolate and 60% minimum for dark chocolate products.

He comments, “We have been in business since April 2014. When looking for somewhere to set up premises, we wanted a space with room for expansion as we had a vision of starting a

Chocolates from Lowry’s Espresso Bar and Chocolatier

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food & drink feature… a passion for chocolate chocolate workshop as an extension to our coffee shop business. And why chocolate? Well, simply because we love it! I currently produce a small range of chocolate goodies ranging from caramel filled moulded chocolates to fresh cream truffles, all using fine couverture. For Easter, I have tried my hand at producing some milk chocolate eggs and small packs of Easter Bunnies, which I am making to order. We also run very popular 90 minute truffle making workshops upstairs in our ’Chocolate Attic’.”

BENJAMIN CHOCOLATIER 01242 253862 / benjaminchocolatier.co.uk Cheltenham resident Ben Axford claims to have chocolate running through his veins. This is the result of spending most of his childhood in Brussels and raiding his parents’ stash of luxury chocolate. But a law degree, headhunting, a cheese and wine business, and getting to the final of Masterchef all came before he finally decided “to stop pinching other people’s chocolate” and make some of his own.

Axford’s company was the UK’s first artisan chocolatier to use vintage chocolate – that is, chocolate made with the best cocoa beans from a single year’s harvest, typically from a single plantation. He uses this to handcraft a range of filled chocolates with flavours such as passionfruit and basil, chilli truffles and salted caramel. He says, “When I started my private dining business on the back of the Masterchef success, I made chocolates as petit fours. Lots of my customers commented on them so it occurred to me that I should be making and selling them to a wider audience. For our ganaches and truffles, I developed a method of making them without adding cream or butter, which is the traditional way. This method allows the true flavour of the chocolate and the caramel, spices, fruit or herbs we use to really shine through. Proof that we’d developed something delicious came in the form of a coveted Academy of Chocolate Award just three months after launching. The award was for our Muscovado Salted Caramel, which has become our bestselling line.”

Axford also offers a tasting club, classes and even a bespoke chocolate service, creating a personalised chocolate flavour for that special

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From top: Salted Pecan Praline Bark; Cocoa Nib Bark; and Peanut & Pretzel Bark, all by Benjamin Chocolatier

person or celebration. As the company has only been established for two years, he hasn’t yet entered the Easter market with traditional offerings, but this year he has created Easter pods which he describes as, “just like Easter eggs but in the shape of a cocoa pod”.

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Books recommended by…

Octavia’s Bookshop

The award winning Octavia’s Bookshop, on Black Jack Street in Cirencester, stocks childhood favourites and beautiful reference books as well as all the latest best sellers. Here, Octavia Karavla, the shop’s owner, presents her personal selection of titles with an Easter (or chocolate) theme…

The Chocolate Money Mystery by Alexander McCall Smith For 6-8 year olds, £4.99, paperback We read this book with my 6–7 year olds book group and it was a resounding success: they absolutely loved it, as did I! It is a brilliantly funny mystery adventure with well trained mountain dogs, crazy criminals, yummy chocolate and a family of Cluedo loving detectives.

When God was a Rabbit by Sarah Winman £7.99, paperback When God was a Rabbit is a novel about growing up, friendship, love and loss that will make you laugh and cry. Elly, her brother Joe, her friend Jenny Penny and a talking rabbit called God are all captivating characters. This is a great book for fans of David Nicholl’s One Day as it follows the eccentric family over 40 years from Essex to Cornwall to New York. My favourite funny bits are the Jubilee street party and the school nativity play.

Ultimate Chocolate Recipes by Green and Black’s Organic £16.99, hardback An irresistibly indulgent cookbook entirely based around chocolate, with cakes, cookies, cupcakes and cheesecakes all inspired by Green and Black’s newest and fanciest organic chocolate flavours. A musthave for all chocoholics.

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books recommended by… Octavia’s Bookshop Chocolat by Joanne Harris £7.99, paperback You may have watched the film, which stars the delicious Johnny Depp as an Irish water gypsy, but have you read the book? This is a truly lovely story of a women and her daughter who arrive in a remote village in France and open a chocolate shop opposite the church. The shop, and the mystical stranger who owns it, will change the lives of this small community forever. It is a story of religion and belief of passion and pleasure but most of all it is a celebration of love and chocolate!

Peter Rabbit’s Easter Egg Hunt For 0-5 year olds (lift-the-flap), £8.99 This is a beautiful, traditional book with a twist. We follow that cheeky rabbit Peter as he searches for Easter eggs and meets our favourite Beatrix Potter characters on his way.

Will Mr McGregor find him in his garden again and will Jemima find her ducklings? With surprises under flaps to find and pull-outs and pop-ups, this is a lovely interactive Easter book for little ones.

The Usborne Children’s Book of Baking Cakes £9.99, spiral bound This book is perfect to get children enjoying baking with simple, well illustrated directions. It is divided into sections for big cakes, small cakes and tray cakes and it also provides some lovely ways in which to turn your creations into gifts with jars, ribbons and decorations.

Hare and the Easter Eggs by Alison Uttley For 3-6 year olds, £5.99, hardback This book would make a wonderful Easter present. Enchanting illustrations and a delightful story invite you to share with Hare, Little Grey Rabbit and Squirrel as they celebrate their first Easter. A charming, nostalgic book that will be treasured for generations.

Room full of Chocolate by Jane Elson For 9-13 year olds, £6.99, paperback Grace’s world is turned upside down when her mother becomes extremely ill and she is sent away to live on her grumpy grandfather’s remote Yorkshire farm. A new school means new problems and she soon becomes the victim of bullying. When she meets rainbow-girl Megan and her potbellied pig Claude, things start looking up – until Easter, that is, when she misses her mum the most and decides she needs to go back to London to see her. This involves a plan that includes chocolate, Claude the pig and a mistaken identity. A lovely book about courage and friendship.

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the Preview interview… Will Hadland

the

PREVIEWinterview

Will Hadland Having learnt his trade in local apprenticeships, last year Will Hadland took over the reins at bespoke furniture maker Hutchinson Furniture and Interiors, based in Long Compton. Here, he talks to Sally Bult about his Cotswold upbringing, choice of career and future plans for the company…

Where were you born and brought up?

I was brought up in Armscote then, after school, in Shipston, so I’m very much a local lad. I now live in Chipping Norton and I love it there.

Please could you tell us about your professional background?

I was brought up in the country so when I wasn’t at school, I was often to be found working on the farm. My father is an architect and I loved watching him work – in those days, everything was hand-drawn. I decided that architecture was what I really wanted to do when I left school.

However, a spell of work experience at Robotham Architects in Warwick showed me that it just wasn’t for me: I didn’t like working indoors in an

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office environment and I wanted to do something more physical and use my hands! Luckily, I was offered an apprenticeship with Nicholas Wood Ltd in Alderminster, making furniture.

As an old fashioned cabinet making business, it was in its prime when I started, so I learnt a lot and ended up working there for eight years.

During my time at Nicholas Wood Ltd I was able to get involved with workshop management and the business side of things, and this is where my interest for business arose. I then became self employed for a year and sub-contracted out to a number of companies, including Hutchinson Furniture & Interiors.

I developed a great working relationship with the company’s founders, Mark and Vanessa4

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Will Hadland (centre) with some of the team at Hutchinson Furniture & Interiors

Hutchinson, and they offered me a job as a machinist. I worked my way up to become workshop manager and I also worked as Vanessa’s project manager. Last year, when Mark and Vanessa decided they wanted to do something else, they offered me the chance to take over the company. Since then, I’ve done an AutoCAD course and now I’m designing and managing: back in an office after all!

A bespoke kitchen by Hutchinson Furniture & Interiors

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Have you made any changes to the company since taking the helm?

In terms of what we are making, no: the business was already running well. However, I intend to put my mark on it over the next two to three years.

Working in the workshop as an employee before taking over the company did give me some ’undercover’ insights, so I’ve been able to tweak certain things to let us work more efficiently and to work out what’s right for people. For example, we are now keeping all of our furniture fitting ‘in house’. So now our cabinet makers can also fit

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the Preview interview… Will Hadland

Bedroom furniture by Hutchinson Furniture & Interiors

Dining furniture by Hutchinson Furniture & Interiors

the furniture themselves, giving them control over the whole process. It also puts the workshop in direct contact with our customers, which I think is important.

A recent change at the showroom is that interior design company Twist Interiors joined us at the end of last year. I had worked together with Alison Green, Twist’s director, on projects in the past and we decided that it would increase footfall to the showroom if her company had a presence here. We help each other with leads but we still work independently as two separate companies.

Do you plan to change the company name?

I feel no reason to change the name: Hutchinson has a good reputation and is well established, especially in London where about 60% of our work is generated. We are currently developing our local Cotswolds market and do travel widely all over the country. We are lucky to work with quite a few interior designers and architects who recommend us.

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What do you love most about what you do?

I enjoy the problem solving, both in design and general management. It’s also really satisfying to have enough work to be able to employ people.

I had to make a decision at Christmas since I was splitting my time between the workshop and the showroom, but I found I was worrying about whichever place I wasn’t working! So I decided that I should be in the showroom full time and I recently employed Simon as my replacement in the workshop. I do miss the time I used to spend over there but I feel that the new set-up works well, with two of us in the showroom and four in the workshop, just as it was in Mark and Vanessa’s time. It is a very exciting time for me whilst also being quite daunting, with the responsibility for employees always at the back of my mind.

We source all our local timber – usually oak – and we have a great relationship with nearby farmers. If a tree comes down, we’ll go and collect it. I love that my role is so diverse: sometimes I’m designing and at other times I’m tramping across a field to look at a tree! It’s also exciting to be introducing new designs. For example, we are looking at developing a bespoke gun cabinet to go in the back of cars. The plan is to design and build one and take it around during the shooting season to get customer feedback and go from there. Hopefully we’ll have one ready in time for the Moreton Show this September.

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the Preview interview… Will Hadland What is the best thing about living in the Cotswolds?

Every time I go away and then come home, I arrive back and think, “We are so lucky to live in such a lovely place.” Some of the villages around here are simply stunning. I do like London but wouldn’t want to live there.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Some weeks I may work 60 hours so I’m not sure how much spare time I have these days! I like mountain biking and The Chequers in Chipping Norton is my local pub. I also go to The Fleece in Bretforton – that’s always been a favourite of mine. I’m a summer person and I enjoy taking my vintage campervan around the country: I’ll have to see how much time I have this summer and whether I’ll be able to get away.

Will Hadland planting a young tree

Garden furniture by Hutchinson Furniture & Interiors

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What are your future plans for Hutchinson Furniture & Interiors?

I just want us to carry on working as we are. I don’t want us to become any bigger as we are currently at full capacity in the workshop: I’d like to keep it like that. As a company, we are able to offer everything from outdoor furniture to a full home renovation, not simply all the joinery but bathrooms and kitchens too. There aren’t many companies left that can do what we do, for example making kitchens like ours with solid drawers, dovetail joints and everything made to order.

In terms of promoting the company, we have a few networking events planned for this summer and we intend to continue sponsoring the Moreton Show. It’s a really important event, mostly in terms of supporting the community and for the social occasion rather than for marketing. We’ll also be attending the Grand Designs Show in Birmingham and possibly this year’s CLA Game Fair.

I find it really interesting meeting each customer, visiting their home and learning about their style and taste, then interpreting that into a design and actually seeing the creation take shape. Each job is different, so there’s never a dull moment.

Hutchinson Furniture & Interiors: 01608 684455 / CV36 5JL / hutchinsonfurniture.co.uk

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specialist business profile… Whichford Pottery

Jim Keeling, co-founder of Whichford Pottery

Whichford Pottery Based near Shipston on Stour, Whichford Pottery is world renowned for its range of English flowerpots and it is the largest hand-making pottery in Europe.

Above all, it prides itself on a tradition of high quality design and production, using hand-thrown and hand-pressed methods…

Jim Keeling along with his wife Dominique established Whichford Pottery in 1976. Having had a fascination with clay from an early age, Jim spent the early 1970s as an apprentice for Harris and Son in Wrecclesham after graduating from Cambridge University with a degree in Archaeology and History. Since another of his passions is gardening, he found that he was able to combine the two making flowerpots.

As he puts it, “I’ve always liked doing things with my hands. I learnt to throw at school but really finetuned my technique during my apprenticeships. On my first day of making flowerpots, I managed to

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throw 120 pots; by the time I left, I was throwing 1,200 pots. It’s something I like doing and found that I’m good at it.”

At Whichford, Jim’s priority has always been to produce the best quality flowerpots, all made by hand and mostly on a traditional potter’s wheel.

Production skills at the pottery have now been honed for almost 40 years and the original team of two apprentices has grown to encompass 20 highly trained potters who work alongside Jim. His philosophy for the business remains to employ a person rather than a machine, wherever possible.

One member of staff has been at Whichford 4

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© Lynda Dyer

A selection of Whichford’s flowerpots

for 35 years and the atmosphere within the pottery is one of harmonious calm. Visitors to the pottery, who are encouraged to tour the building and chat with the potters as they work, often remark on this.

Everything at Whichford is done in-house to give total control during the making process.

In order to have the best clay possible and to produce exactly the right colour and consistency for making Whichford’s unique terracotta pots, it is prepared on site using a mixture of three clays, mostly sourced from Blockley but also from Staffordshire and Suffolk. These three different colours and textures are blended and refined in a time consuming ritual which involves sieving, washing, blending and ageing.

Every day, the pottery’s ’chief clay magicians’, Richard and Brian, prepare trolleys of fresh clay in this way.

When it comes to hand-throwing the flowerpots, the techniques used at Whichford have been passed on through five generations of master potters and designs range from simple

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Victorian longtoms to vast, ornate urns. Once the pots have been formed, some are decorated by the thrower on the wheel using bands or coloured slips and roulettes. Others are decorated the following day using sprigged decoration or embossed shapes. Some pots are further enhanced by painting on coloured slips to highlight the detail.

Various parts can also be added to the pots: clay strips of basketwork, handles or lugs. Some of the more ornate designs and garden features are made entirely by coiling and beating clay into a plaster mould which has been designed and cast in-house.

Once a pot is finished, it is given the Whichford stamp and its own catalogue code and left to dry.

The pottery’s servicing team nurtures the pots through the drying and kiln-firing processes, which take an average of three weeks per pot. One of Whichford’s key selling points is its flowerpots’ ten year frostproof guarantee, which can be given because of the pottery’s specific clay recipe.

Keen gardeners form the core of Whichford’s domestic market. Customers can buy direct from the pottery or via its catalogue or online.

Whichford also runs a programme of special talks, events and pottery workshops: throwing a pot is fascinating to watch and seemingly effortless but anyone who has had a go will tell you that it is much, much harder than it looks!

The company has exhibited at Chelsea Flower Show for over 20 years and has won many awards for its trendsetting displays and innovative plantings. Additionally, the pottery

Adam Keeling handcrafting a large flowerpot

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specialist business profile… Whichford Pottery works on a variety of projects which extend beyond flowerpots. For example, in 2011, when local potter Russell Collins retired, Whichford took over his business of producing crockery for the catering industry and his grandson Tom joined Whichford as an apprentice.

Pottery has also been commissioned by high profile designers and organisations such as English Heritage, Blenheim Palace, National Trust, Kew Gardens, Longborough Festival Opera House and many others in UK and abroad.

Bespoke projects include chimney pots for listed buildings, special tiles and conceptual sculptural works. Most recently, the pottery produced more than 97,000 ceramic poppies for the acclaimed Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red installation at The Tower of London, which marked the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War. In 2007, The Octagon Gallery was built at the pottery and it has since become a showcase for British craftsmanship, including pottery by Jim and Dominique.

Last year, another development at Whichford Pottery was the opening of The Straw Kitchen café in a formerly dilapidated barn on the site, and this is now a popular destination with both locals and visitors.

Jim and Dominique have five children and the family has always been very interlinked with the pottery. Their eldest son, Adam, has now returned to Whichford as senior thrower in charge of production following his own pottery career in Europe. Their daughter Maia runs the café with her partner, and younger daughter Tio manages Sales and Marketing for the business.

Jim is happy to have the younger generation involved so that he can give more of his time to external projects. Currently, these include the development of research kilns in conjunction with Oxford University and top Japanese potters from Bizen. The kilns will be situated in Wytham Woods, near Oxford. Jim has also published several books and lectures regularly in Japan.

He is passionate about inspiring people to appreciate quality and craftsmanship, and he feels that society is in danger of losing the

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The Octagon Gallery at Whichford Pottery

knowledge of how to make things. In his view, the demand for the cheapest solution is ultimately damaging our fragile economic framework. As he says, “If society can’t provide jobs because everything we are buying is coming from overseas, then we will produce a society in crisis. We’ll become too cerebral – unable to do things and no longer in touch.” He particularly enjoys his export relationship with Japan because he feels that the Japanese market still appreciates the link between quality and price.

Whichford is constantly evolving new designs which not only maintain interest for the potters but also sustain and develop the brand. Jim says with a smile that the Japanese have an expression: “A potter is an egg until he’s 50”. This reflects the fact that there is always so much to learn about traditional pottery methods and that being a master potter is an ongoing process.

It is this passion for the traditional methods and artistic integrity which makes Whichford’s pots so special. Whenever you see the maker’s stamp, you can be sure that the pot has been lovingly hand-crafted from start to finish.

Whichford Pottery is open seven days a week: Monday to Friday from 9am–5pm, Saturdays from 10am–5pm and Sundays from 11am–4pm.

Throughout the Easter weekend (3–6 April), the pottery’s opening hours are 10am–5pm. From Friday 10 to Sunday 12 April, Whichford is also open from 10am–5pm each day for its Half Price Seconds Sale.

Whichford Pottery, near Shipston on Stour: 01608 684416 / CV36 5PG / whichfordpottery.com

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Mel James

Contenta Therapies Based in Highnam, near Gloucester, Contenta Therapies was opened by Mel James late last year to provide non-invasive treatments, such as bio-facelifts and body sculpting, which help boost the confidence of both men and women…

“I’m not a beautician and I’m not a doctor,” Contenta Therapies owner Mel James declares, as she clarifies that her role is as a therapist providing a series of aesthetic treatments to encourage and promote self-confidence in her clients. The range of treatments which Mel has chosen to provide at the clinic are all underpinned by her own gentle, honest approach. This is a reflection of her genuine desire to help people face their issues and this, in turn, is based upon personal insight and experience.

Mel joined the Royal Air Force when she was 26 years old but at the end of basic training she injured her hip quite severely. After battling on for five years, she finally discovered that she had a labrum tear on her hip which she had unwittingly been damaging over the years through her day to day activities. The RAF was very supportive and Mel worked hard at rehab, to the extent that she was fit enough to be deployed to the Falklands for four

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months. However, surgery in 2011 stabilised her hip but made the pain less predictable. Mel found it increasingly hard to sustain her position in the RAF and in July 2014 she was medically discharged.

Wondering what to do next with her life, Mel took some time to reassess. She describes her thoughts: “I realised that I couldn’t sit or stand for too long. I had previously worked as a manager for Wetherspoons and Beefeater but I wasn’t sure that I’d be able to do something like that again.

So I analysed what I wanted and what I needed.

Essentially, I still need to do a couple of hours each day on exercise and rehab, so my career had to allow flexible working hours and not be too physical.”

At the same time, Mel’s mission to find ways of easing her hip pain led her to research a number of treatments. As she gained expertise in this field, she continued to look at suitable career options. The potential compatibility of

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new business profile… Contenta Therapies her research and a career led her to start her own company, Contenta Therapies. In essence, the clinic’s range of treatments offer Mel a way of using technology rather than physical strength to bring relief and confidence to others.

Contenta offers three broad types of therapy: Inch Loss Treatments, Facial Treatments and Photon Light Therapy. Inch Loss uses cryolipolysis [a method of freezing and destroying fat cells] as a way of achieving permanent fat removal, together with radio frequency treatments which help to tighten the skin after weight loss. The process takes about 12 weeks for results to show. For a quicker result, Mel recommends Lipo Cavitation Sculpting, which uses ultrasound for fat reduction.

But as someone who has herself battled with weight gain, Mel does not endorse instant gratification.

Instead, she sees Inch Loss as a stepping stone to long term body confidence. She says, “I see fat removal as a confidence boost. It’s easier to eat healthier meals if you feel better about yourself.

I am a farmer’s daughter and have always been very physically active and eaten well, and now because of my injury I can’t be as active. It can be very disheartening and so I understand how people often get depressed. We have all got issues, but it doesn’t have to stop you doing things.”

Non-invasive ’face lifts’ are another confidence booster, but again work towards the goal of long term benefit. The face is the only part of the body where skin is attached to the muscle, so with the effects of age and gravity it naturally begins to subside. In the non-invasive facial treatment offered at Contenta, the Micro current mimics the body’s natural electrical current and retrains facial muscles to return to their correct position, lifting up the whole ’scaffolding’ of the face, stimulating skin cells and softening wrinkles.

Contenta’s third type of aesthetic treatment, Photo Light Therapy, is designed to benefit anyone with skin conditions such as acne, rosacea and skin congestion. The United Nations has designated 2015 the Year of Light and Light-based Technologies, and in January, a consortium of scientific bodies met to discuss measures to raise awareness of how light based technologies can provide a huge range of medical solutions. Mel is particularly keen to explore the use of light based

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therapies. For example, she is currently looking at purchasing a red light bed which can be used to ameliorate chronic pain. Eventually, she would like to run a support group for chronic pain sufferers.

She says, “It is very unlikely that you’re going to find only one thing that solves this type of long term pain. What you need is a group of tools: for example, I use rehab, exercise, red light therapy, occasional pain relief and sports massage as a way of handling my own hip pain.

It’s also a matter of mind and body together. I would like to get complementary practitioners to come and talk to the group and, if appropriate, offer a mini treatment so that everyone can get some ideas on what might help their pain without outlaying vast amounts of money.”

As a member of the British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology, Mel has extensively researched anatomy and physiology and investigated complementary treatments. Now, with her knowledge of the latest treatments and the benefit that each may present, she intends to produce some videos to show clients exactly how they work.

In terms of her vision for Contenta Therapies, Mel hopes to take on at least one member of staff, since she can’t work full time herself, but she does not want the business to become too big or to offer too many treatments. As she says, “Contenta Therapies is about making people feel comfortable. People who come to me are often in pain or feeling negative about themselves.

I just want to help them feel relaxed.”

Contenta Therapies: 01452 346441 / GL2 8DN / contentatherapies.co.uk

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My Cotswolds… Keith Beckingham

MY COTSWOLDS

Keith and Hélène Beckingham and their Westie

Keith Beckingham In March, the Cheltenham institution Musical Instruments, also known as the Cheltenham Piano Centre, sadly called time on a 50 year history of selling and repairing musical instruments. Its General Manager, Keith Beckingham, tells us about his favourite spots in the Cotswolds and how he plans to spend his retirement…

Where do you live in the Cotswolds and how long have you been there?

My wife Hélène and I (and our little Westie) live near Burford. We moved there from North Buckinghamshire in 2002 when I first became involved with Musical Instruments (Cheltenham) Ltd. What advice would you give to someone new to the area?

Get out of the car and walk!

What do you love most about living here?

There’s an amazing choice of activities and pastimes, from country walks and antique hunting to theatres and concerts, plus the joy of discovering craftspeople who actually make things with their hands. Also, I never tire of the scenery.

Do you have a favourite Cotswold town or village?

I’m torn between Burford and Cirencester.

Where would you recommend going for a meal?

We like The Lamb Inn, in Burford, where we can take our dog whilst we enjoy a bar meal. There’s also Keith’s in Cirencester, for magical coffee and croissants. We enjoy light lunches in the newly

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refurbished Kings Head in Cirencester, and the New England Coffee Company in Stow-on-the-Wold serves wonderful coffee and cakes.

What places or activities would you recommend within the Cotswolds?

Take out a season ticket with the Cotswold Wildlife Park. For dog owners, the good news is that dogs are allowed in most areas.

When you retire, how will you spend your time?

I perform concerts on vintage theatre organs around the country and abroad. I’m also planning to write about my life in the music world as well as a book on dog friendly hotels. Any sponsors out there?

What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?

Buy the best instrument you (or your parents) can afford and practice, practice and practice.

Remember, amateurs practice until they get it right; professionals practice until they can’t get it wrong.

If you could live anywhere else in the world, where would it be and why?

It would be just outside Sydney, overlooking the Hawkesbury River.

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Everything bespoke and of the highest quality.

We can plan, design and install your kitchen to your individual requirements.

We can also modernize your existing kitchen by replacing the doors and worktop.

Please contact us or call in to discuss your ideas.

9 Ventura Park, Carterton. Oxon OX18 1AD Tel/Fax: 01993 841755 & 01451 820055 Mobile: 07950 292195 Email: info@goosejoinery.co.uk www.goosejoinery.co.uk 12

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