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CONTENTS I f you’re a resident of Bristol or Bath it’s easy to be blasé about what brilliant places they are in which to live.
This award-winning guide illustrates one example of this,
celebrating the wonderful craftspeople creating items with
skill, dedication and – damnit – love and the traders scouring locally and globally for gifts producing as much joy in their giving as in their receiving. Across our two great cities there are also people and places providing amazing experiences, resulting in magical memories and a similarly enduring glow. This year’s *Batteries Not Included ethical Christmas
section has doubled in size, reflecting the numerous ways in which you can mark the holiday while making the world a better place for those around you and those you’ll never meet (which is rather the point of the whole shebang in the first place).
HER..................................................8 HIM...................................................12 KIDS...................................................14 HOME..................................................16 STOCKING FILLERS....................18 BLING...................................................20 NOSH....................................................23 TREATS................................................24
Support, appreciate and cherish those offering all the above.
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Merry, meaningful Christmas, readers!
Simon Fry EDITOR
CHRISTMAS CRACKERS.............4 ETHICAL CHRISTMAS...............26 DIRECTORY......................................28
The hard-working elves who brought you Batteries Not Included 2012 Editor Simon Fry Sub-editors Dave Higgitt, Tom Phillips Photographer Theo Cottle Design Sarah Clark Production Manager Cath Evans Commercial Manager Becky Davis Ad Sales Rebecca Baddiley, Adam Burrows, Eleanor Pipe, Ben Wright Production co-ordinators Emma Gorton, Sam Ulewicz, Ruth Wood Batteries Not Included was brought to you by Venue Publishing and inserted free in the November issue of Folio magazine (214), Bristol and Bath’s free monthly lifestyle magazine. Venue Publishing run go-to what’s on website www.venue.co.uk and produce a suite of essential local guides (Student Guide, Eating Out West etc). Bristol Office Bristol News & Media, Temple Way, Bristol, BS99 7HE Tel: 0117 942 8491 Fax: 0117 934 3566 Bath Office Bath News & Media, Bath, BA1 1UN Tel: 01225 429801 Fax: 01225 447602 Web: www.venue.co.uk BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED 2012 3
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CHRISTMAS CRACKERS
HOTTEST
stuff
&
BIGGEST SELLERS 5
WRITE SCHEDULING STUFF PROBLEMS?
RISE RECOMMENDS…
THE BOOKS DOING THE BIZ THIS YEAR
…WHAT OUR READERS WILL LOVE FOR CHRISTMAS 2012.
Guinness Book of Records 2013 (Guinness World Records, £9.99) ★ Settle arguments before they come to blows. Clive Burlton: Trenches to Trams the life of a Bristol Tommy (Tangent, £14.99) ★ Vivid social and military history of an extraordinary, ordinary Bristolian. Stanfords book-signing event 8 Nov 7pm, £3 in advance. Ffi: 0117 929 9966. Michael Palin: Brazil (Orion, £12.49) ★ The ex-Python heads south in his first book for five years. Emma Straub: Laura Lamont’s life in pictures (Riverhead, £17) ★ A young starlet pays the price of fame. The John Lennon Letters (Orion, £20) ★ 250 letters, postcards and notes chronologically reflecting the musician and writer’s life. Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall: Hugh’s Three Good Things on a Plate (Bloomsbury, £12.49) ★ Three is the magic number over more than 175 recipes. JK Rowling: The Casual Vacancy (Little, Brown, £8.99) ★ JK Rowling’s first book for adults. E L James: Fifty Shades of Grey (Vintage, £12.99) ★ Because everybody else has read it. Michael Chabon: Telegraph Avenue (HarperCollins, £18.99) ★ Little, old record shop threatened by big, new record shop. Eating Out West (Venue Publishing, £4.95) ★ How else are you going to know where to eat in the West? Available at most good retailers or by calling 0117 942 8491.
WHAT TO STICK ON WHEN THERE’S NOTHING ON Marley (15) (£10) ★ Fascinating insight into reggae’s biggest star. Marvel’s Avengers Assemble (12) (£18.99) ★ Because six superheroes (two of which are, more specifically, great assassins) are better than one. The Hunger Games (12) (£15) ★ Twentyfour underprivileged youth fight to death in TV spectacular. Prometheus (15) (£14) ★ Ridley Scott’s kindof prequel to ‘Alien’. Ted (15) £14 ★ Man’s inappropriate and crude childhood teddy bear comes to life. Salmon Fishing in The Yemen (13) (£10) ★ Have something ready for when granny comes to stay. Ill Manors (18) (£11.99) ★ Tell granny you’ve been flooded. The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists (U) (£17.99) ★ Aardman’s epic tale of derring-do and a dodo. Harry Potter eight film collection (12) (£36.99) ★ Because it’s quicker than Monopoly. Men in Black 3 (PG) (£10) ★ Darkly-attired gents go back to the 60s. Arthur Christmas (U) (£13.97) ★ Aardman charmer about a boy setting out to save Christmas.
Their Records of the Year will be announced on 29 November and all will be available in store and online. Rise 70 Queens Rd, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1QU, tel: 0117 929 7511, web: www.rise-music.co.uk. Sharon Van Etten: Tramp (£8 CD/£15 LP) ★ Poetic, introspective indie rock/folk from Brooklynbased singer/songwriter. Django Django: Django Django (£8/$15) ★ Mercury-nominated debut album from Scottish alt-rockers. Grimes: Visions (£8/£15) ★ Dream/synth pop from the critically acclaimed Canadian. Alt-J: An Awesome Wave (£10/£15) ★ British folktronica foursome release their debut studio album Portico Quartet: Portico Quartet (£10/£15) ★ Innovative London quartet (natch), with a jazzy sound praised by Time Out. First Aid Kit: The Lions Roar (£10/£15) ★ Swedish sisters with a sound likened to Joni Mitchell and Laura Marling. Dr. John: Locked Down (£10/£25) ★ Collaborative mean, lean, funky flavours from veteran blues, jazz, soul man. Godspeed! You Black Emperor: Allelujah... (£12/£20) ★ “A challenging, intense, evocative work, worthy of their canon,” say BBC Music of the Canadian post-rockers fourth full-lengther. Field Music: Plumb (£5/£13) ★ “They sound like ELO. In a good way, your mum could love them” reckon the NME. Tame Impala: Lonerism (£8/£18) ★ Bleakly open lyrics smothered in Fab Four-influenced psychedelia.
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Gorgeous Gifts, Jewellery & Cards
CHRISTMAS GIFTS & STOCKING FILLERS OPEN SUNDAYS DURING NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER
44a-46 Cotham Hill, Bristol, BS6 6LA Tel 0117 9239854 Open 10-6pm Mon-Sat www.soukous.co.uk BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED 2012 5
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★
★
ON A ROLE
THATS NICE! THE PRESENTS YOU DEFINITELY WON’T BE REGIFTING
Dr Who Remote Control (£59.99) ★ Up to 39 different commands of any remote-control gadget by gesture alone – however did you manage before? Ugg suede and shearling mittens (£115) ★ Now all you need is some cold weather. VW Camper Tent (£299.99) ★ Sleeps five, British military-standard waterproofing, will look wicked at Glasto 2013. Furby (£55) ★ Upgraded version of 1998 bestseller, now responds to iPhone app, still speaks Furbish. iChoc Four Bar Gift Tin (£6.95) ★ Choc gets extremely chic in chill-out caramel, wild milk, electric liquorice and go go mango flavours. Lego Batcave (£69.99) ★ “Holy Christmas presents, Batman!” The Gotham City crime-buster (in Caped Crusader and day-job Bruce Wayne garb), the boy Robin, Poison Ivy and Bane do battle underground. What on Earth? Wallbook of Sport (£14.95) ★ The Olympics from 776BC to 2012 plus stacks of sporting action in between. Over 1,000 illustrations and captions for leisurely perusal. Nixon Apollo Headphones (£90) ★ Dr who? Forget about Dre… Arcadie for iPhone (£14.99) ★ Turns your mobile into a mini amusement arcade. Barbie Collector Twilight Breaking Dawn Bella Doll (£24.97) ★ Expect to be dazzled by her beauty – but will you want to take her out of her box?
ENSURE A KICK-ASS KEYBOARD CHRISTMAS WITH THESE GAMECHANGERS Wonderbook: Book of Spells Bundle (7) PS3 (£59.97) ★ Groundbreaking, spell-making augmented reality game set to send chins floorwards. Football Manager 2013 (3) PC, Mac (£30) ★ The latest in the series, post-match clichés not included. Far Cry 3 (18) (£30) ★ Escape from a series of tropical islands and the crazed inhabitants thereon. Call of Duty: Black Ops II (18) 360, PS3, PC, Wii (£35-£45) ★ Ninth in the series, offering 3D display option for the first time. Borderlands 2 (18) 360, PS3, PC (£30) ★ Space western role-playing shooter featuring branching storylines chosen by you. Assassin’s Creed III (18) 360, PS3, PC, Wii (£39.91) ★ History ahoy for gaming set during the American Revolution. Halo 4 (16) 360, PS3, PC, Wii (£37.99) ★ Mystery, exploration and development battling an ancient evil intent on vengeance. Fifa 13 (3) 360, PS3, PC, Wii (£42) ★ A new level of on-pitch player control to capture the beautiful game’s unpredictability. 007 Legends (16) 360, PS3, PC, Wii (£39.97) ★ Relive Bond’s greatest missions in five of his films, including ‘Skyfall’. London 2012 (3) 360, PS3, PC (£25) ★ Take part in over 45 events from over 12 Olympic sports.
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HER
ISN’T SHE
lovely 5 E H E R
M A K D A Y T H I S C H R I S T M A S
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SOCKS APPEAL
Incredibly thick, pure wool socks, the ideal remedy for cold feet! Cushioned and cosy for around the house, great for wellies too. What’s more, these beauties are a splendid ethical gift, being Fair Trade. Available in women’s and men’s sizes. £14 ★ Made Fair Web: www.madefair.co.uk
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LADY IS A TRAMP
You don’t need to go to Hobo’s Manhattan showroom to buy this stylish ‘Robin’ purse – because Boutique 33 brings New York chic to Clifton Village. This heritage-hip lifestyle brand was formed in Maryland in 1991 and illustrates Boutique 33’s stocking of big name designers beside smaller individual creatives from around the world. Be there when your present is opened, and be ready to answer when they ask, “Wow! Where did you get this…?” £49 ★ Boutique 33 33 Regent Street, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4HR, tel: 0117 973 9570, web: www. boutique33.co.uk
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CHRISTMAS COUTURE
Everyone needs some lace and glamour! Here’s a classic boudoir piece that can be worn with or without stockings. The retro feel to this bustier brings us back to the 1950s and a celebration of the female form. The Couture bustier from Simone Perele is available at Aria Lingerie. £150 ★ Aria Lingerie 3 George St, Bath BA1 2EH, tel: 01225 447700, web: www. arialingerie.co.uk
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DUTTY CALLS
4 5
It’s double figures for the Dutty brand in the new year, a decade from its beginning as a club night in 2003. After evolving into a St Nicholas Market stall, owners Joh and Louisa opened the reinvented Shop Dutty on Stokes Croft in 2008. These hand-painted feather earrings by Butchi and Gosmos continue the transformational trend, being made - in Bristol - from leather offcuts from UK handbag manufacturers. £9 ★ Shop Dutty 116 Cheltenham Rd, Bristol, tel: 0117 924 9990, web: www.shopdutty.com
WINTER WANDERLUST
Every woman needs a decent clutch purse for a festive night out, and the Wanderlust clutch from iota perfectly blends chic and fun, with a bright bold jungle print - very now - and a luxurious touch of gold. £29.99
6
TURNING HEADS
Adorable just doesn’t go far enough with these knitted Snuggle Hottie owl booties. Radiating pure lovability, this wise owl is ready to be at your feet all day long! In addition to charming you with its huge sleeping eyes, floppy ears and gorgeous vibrant stripy jumper, it’ll keep your toes cosy throughout the winter. With a stylish design incorporating cuteness, vibrant colours and warm practicality, Animal Knitted Booties make the perfect alternative gift for friends, family and loved ones. £19.99 ★ Soukous 44a-46 Cotham Hill, Bristol BS6 6LA, tel: 0117 923 9854, web: www.soukous.co.uk.
★ iota 167 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8BE, tel: 0117 924 4911, web: www.iotabristol.com
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HER
CONTINUED
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TOASTY TOES
Treat your feet with these wonderfully warm reindeer slippers, £11.99, from Beast, and Seasalt Fluffies, the softest socks in the world, made from recycled bottles, £7.99. Beast are proud to take the Bristol Pound. ★ Beast 224 Cheltenham Road BS6 5QU and St Nicholas Market BS1 1HQ, tel: 0117 942 8200, 0117 927 9535, web: www.beast-clothing.com
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LONDON HAULING
With the Jubilee and Olympics, all eyes have been on the capital this year, so this bag from Futon Company is the perfect gift for Christmas 2012. The London Eye is captured neatly through intricate, tactile white stitching against a black backdrop, reminding you of our annus mirabilis every time it’s used. Lightweight yet strong, it’s ideal for carrying a hefty grocery shop or lugging a heavy load of medals. £7.95 ★ Futon Company 41 Park St, Bristol BS1 5NL, tel: 0117 922 0215, web: www.futoncompany.co.uk
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MONEYBOX LOVE
Collect your spare change in this ceramic moneybox with pretty print and charming rhyme by paper-cut artist Rob Ryan (size approximately 8x8x9cm.) Rob creates wonderfully whimsical cut-paper artworks and describes himself as a ‘realistic romantic’. If you look closely at his beautifully intricate artwork, you’ll see a delicate balance between oldfashioned charm, humour and sentimentality ★ Soma Gallery 4 Boyces Ave, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4AA, tel: 0117 973 9838, web: www.somagallery.co.uk 10 BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED 2012
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HIM it's
a
MAN’S world 5
GIVE THE BLOKE IN Y O U R L I F E S OMETHING DIFFERENT THIS CHRISTMAS
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GLADIATOR READY!
Gloucestershire CCC’s mighty Gladiators pushed the even mightier South Africa – led by the combative Alan ‘White Lightning’ Donald - close in a hard-fought match this summer. This is the shirt the players wear when they’re taking it easy – and you can wear it too. Available in sizes from small to XXL – so it doesn’t matter if you take things very easily indeed over the holidays… £20 ★ Gloucestershire CCC Shop The County Ground, Nevil Rd, Bristol BS7 9EJ, tel: 0117 910 8020, web: www. gloscricket.co.uk
GET CRACKING!
The great man himself would approve of the aesthetic of these Brunel stovepipe top hat eggcups, fired in a metallic matt glaze to symbolise heavy industry. Handmade by Clifton Village’s ace potter Jen Hamilton, a boiled egg has never looked so well presented. They make the perfect present for your little soldier (but expect dad to pull rank when he’s having soft-boiled for breakfast). £6 ★ The Village Pottery 70 Princess Victoria St, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4DD, tel: 0117 973 4343, web: www. thevillagepottery. co.uk
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STAR WARS OF WONDER
Your Christmas shopping mantra might be ‘may the force be with you’ but this could be about to change with AtBristol’s extensive range of quirky, sciencey and gorgeous gifts! The ‘must-have’ prezzie of the year is surely this jumbo radio-controlled inflatable R2-D2 (£42). It’s very cool and has a Weeble effect so if it falls over it bounces straight back up again! The At-Bristol shop also stocks a range of amazing stocking fillers and entrance is free. ★ At-Bristol Anchor Rd, Bristol BS1 5DB, tel: 0845 345 1235, web: www.at-bristol.org.uk
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★★
4
★
BEAST BEAUTS FOR YOUR BEAU Make him happy this Christmas with the three latest West Country T-shirts from Beast, £11.99 each or three for £30. The wording in full: “I bin smoovin the meerkat”; “It’s not cidre, it’s scrumpy”; “Bristol born and bred, me”. Beast are proud to take the Bristol Pound.
★ Beast 224 Cheltenham Road BS6 5QU and St Nicholas Market, BS1 1HQ tel. 0117 942 8200, 0117 927 9535, web: www.beast-clothing.com
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A G-SHOCK THANG
Make sure you don’t miss the Queen’s speech and settle all arguments as to when 2013 has officially arrived with this chunky, funky Casio G-Shock watch. Available from Harvey Nichols, at a price which won’t come as a shock at all. £85 ★ Harvey Nichols 27 Philadelphia St, Quakers Friars, Cabot Circus, Bristol, BS1 3BZ, tel: 0117 916 8888, Web: www.harveynichols.com
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GET IT COVERED
Remember when you could define your personality with the books you were reading? Before e-readers came along and meant we all presented a blank grey plastic face to the world? Well now’s your chance to personalise your e-reader with a literary classic cover and show the world you’re a creative, artistic type who wouldn’t dream of befouling their Kindle with Fifty Shades of Bad Writing. Of course, what you actually read on it is another matter… £14.99 ★ iota bristol 167 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8BE, tel: 0117 924 4911, web: www.iotabristol. com BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED 2012 13
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KIDS ENFANTS
terrific
★ E N S U R E A N I P P E R
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MARY CHRISTMAS!
N A T T Y N O E L !
How neat is this? After a visit to Windmill Hill City Farm, local artist Paula Bowles was inspired to write and illustrate Scary Mary, the story of a chicken with temper tantrums. It was published by Tiger Tales earlier this year and is currently on sale in the USA, on Amazon or direct from the lady herself. Last month Paula returned to the farm for a reading (quite what Scary Mary made of this is unclear). She’s recently been delighting Bristol schoolchildren with storytelling events and welcomes enquiries/commissions. Scary Mary, £10 ★ Paula Bowles Email: paula. bowles@gmail.com, web: www. paulabowles.co.uk
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A CUT ABOVE
This beguiling print, which will beautify any child’s bedroom, is from the very talented scalpel of artist Naomi McIndoe. She takes her inspiration from the woodland, wildlife and windows of her Worcester surroundings, but as she’s lived in seven different areas of Bristol she considers it her spiritual home. Aw, shucks! After honing her skills at the Chelsea College of Art & Design, she works freehand with no pre-drawn lines, often just following a train of thought. Each of these limited edition Starry Rabbits prints is signed and numbered one of 50. £27 ★ Mrs McIndoe web: www.mrsmcindoe. com
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ADVENT ADVENTURE
Twenty-four Penguins before Christmas is an uber hip advent calendar on sale in the uber hip bookshop in Bristol’s Arnolfini, one of Europe’s leading centres for contemporary arts. Inspired by the Jean-Luc Fromental book, 365 Penguins, a bijou little book directs children through the calendar’s impressive 3D landscape. Once the day’s door has been found, they have the fun of opening it to see what lies behind (if their parents haven’t beaten them to it). £7.99 ★ Arnolfini 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol BS1 4QA, tel: 0117 917 2300, web: www. arnolfini.org.uk
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TUESDAY, TUESDAY
The Hatley brand, as stocked by Tuesday’s Child, is all about having fun, making well designed, good quality products that are built to last. Already here is rainwear, pyjamas, backpacks (dino backpack £28.99) and lunchboxes with the clothing range arriving next season. These lovely Powell Craft rag dolls (£12.95 each) are great for stocking fillers and Christmas gifts with the range coming in many designs for girls and boys. The musical Mele jewellery box (£12.95) will bring back your childhood memories while the plain pink Mele jewellery box (£13.50) is fab for the slightly older girl ★ Tuesday’s Child 27 Walcot St, Bath BA1 5BN, tel: 01225 311992, web: www. tuesdayschildclothing.co.uk
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THE CAT’S WHISKERS!
Rag Cats are handmade in beautiful Bristol. Lovely fabrics, recycled where possible, wonderful colours, buttons, bells, ribbons and hand embroidery combine to create unique, lasting gifts to treasure for all ages. These lovingly-crafted cats, dogs and bunnies (as appealing to adults as children) can be found in the amazing spiegeltent (mirror tent) at the Magpies and I market on Bristol’s waterfront on December 8, or order online. Rag cat, £15 ★ Rag Cats Online ordering: www.etsy.com/shop/ RagCats or www. folksy.com/shops/ RagCats. Tel: 07747 021463.
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BUON NATALE
Delight your adventurous toddler with a little taste of Italian chic! These Vespaesque scooters are the most stylish ride-ons around; with no tricky pedals and four supermanoeuvrable casters, you’ve just found the perfect first Christmas prezzie… Retro Scooter in Aqua or Pink, £54.99 ★ My Small World Toy Store Little Southgate, Bath BA1 1AS, tel: 01225 938338, web: www. mysmallworld. co.uk
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HOME home COMFORTS
★ INTERIOR
SUPERIOR THE SERIOUSLY
FOR STYLISH
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SOMETHING TO TREASURE
This wooden Chinese treasure cabinet is made by traditional craftsmen, constructed without nails and finished with red lacquer. The design is based on traditional Chinese furniture yet made to suit the modern home. A striking statement in any home this Christmas. £240 ★ Museum of East Asian Art Shop 12 Bennett St, Bath, BA1 2QJ, tel: 01225 464640, web: www.meaa.org.uk
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CUSHION THE BLOW
This eye-catching cushion with luxury feather inner from the Ben the Illustrator range is perfect for Christmas, with its snow-covered evergreens and cosy, inviting homes. Evoking Greenland’s suitably cold climes, it’s just the job for comfying-up a snooze through the Queen’s speech or covering eyes if Doctor Who gets a bit scary… £35
★ Ben the Illustrator tel: 07976 186442, email: Fiona@bentheillustrator.com, web: www.bticollection.com
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WREATHED IN SMILES
Give a Christmas gift that will light the way through to the New Year. This traditional (and green) ivy wreath, festooned with festive decoration, really shows off the rich red roses and gorgeous gerbera. Edith Wilmot Florists are ‘All About The Flowers’ – creating displays from two to two hundred pounds – why not let your creativity go?! ★ Edith Wilmot 5 Carlton Court, Bristol BS9 3DE, tel: 0117 950 8589, web: www.edithwilmot.co.uk
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A REFINED AIR
Adorn your home with these exquisite – and effective – room fragrance products from Agraria, based in San Francisco. There’s no alcohol in the ‘air essence’ essential oils carry the fragrance, so while they are guaranteed to last a minimum 12 months, experience will show they last much longer. Both the air essence and candle come in two collections, original Nob Hill and the newer and more floral Santa Barbara collection. Air Essence £115.00. Candle £35.00 ★ Eton Design 108 Walcot St, Bath BA1 5BG, tel: 01225 639002, www.eton-design. com
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MIRROR, MIRROR
This lovely oval mirror is framed by a hand-painted floral design with a clear, shiny finish, reminiscent of lacquer work. Fairly traded from craftswomen in Peru. £12 ★ Made Fair Web: www.madefair.co.uk
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PRIMATE PRESENT
Looking for some unusual Christmas gift ideas? Let Stanfords inspire you with their unique range of miniature ceramic gorillas, all of which pay homage to Bristol. Prices range from £15.99 to £55.00. Don’t forget Stanfords is the south-west’s leading travel guides, maps and travel accessories specialist. They also have stunning wall maps, globes, stationery and other unique items which make beautiful gifts ★ Stanfords 29 Corn Street, Bristol BS1 1HT, tel: 0117 929 9966, email:stanfordsbristol@gmail.com, web: www.stanfords.co.uk
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STOCKING
FILLERS BUDGET beauties
5 S M I L E S ,
B I G L I T T L E
P R I C E S
★
★
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FAVOURITE THINGS FELT GOOD
Los hichis are a collection of soft art toys made out of felt. Each is original, individual and unique, handmade and sewn with all the love and patience they deserve. Bristol-based artist Vivi Cuevas, their creator, invites commissions and special designs in any size for any occasion. One thing is for sure: no matter who you are, how old you are or where you are, your hichi will make you smile! Little hichi (shown), £9.99. Big hichi £19.99
The very definition of warmth, and gorgeous to boot! These mittens are knitted from chunky pure wool and are fully fleece-lined, so the rain and wind stay out and the warmth stays in. You’ll feel like a snug bear with these on your paws! Available in a number of classic colours. £12 ★ Made Fair Web: www.madefair.co.uk
★ Vivi Cuevas web: www. vivicuevas.com
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HOMEGIRL HOOPS
Show your love for the streets – and vintage – with these Gangster Wrap earrings from Shop Dutty. Wickedly one-off, they’re made by Diss Miss Designs from vintage fabric off-cuts which means you’ll rarely find two-of-a-kind. Drop some distinction… £8 ★ Shop Dutty 116 Cheltenham Rd, Bristol, tel: 0117 924 9990, web: www.shopdutty.com
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★
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PARTY CENTRAL
Liven up your office party, pub crawl or Christmas meal with something amazing from Funtastic, a fancy-dress extravaganza tucked away in Bath’s Guildhall Market. Drop in to find fake blood, face paint, fairy wings and wigs to complete your transformation into zombie, Smurf, Tinkerbell or bewigged beauty. An extensive range of beautiful masks will bring mystery to your New Year’s Eve (£11.99-£19.99) ★ Funtastic 22-25 Guildhall Market, High St, Bath, tel: 01225 460808, web: www.funtasticonline.com
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STUMPED FOR A PRESENT?
Stocking fillers at pocket money prices are to be had at Gloucestershire CCC’s shop. Keep score with this notepad and pen (£4), keep your keys safe with this metal keyring (£4), keep out winter’s chill with this beanie hat (£6), fill the time till resumption with this Rain Never Stops Play book (£4.99) and take tea in this supporters mug (£6.50) ★ Gloucestershire CCC Shop The County Ground, Nevil Rd, Bristol BS7 9EJ, tel: 0117 910 8020, web: www.gloscricket.co.uk
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ANIMAL ATTRACTION
This 2013 calendar brings together 12 of the most beautiful artworks from Ben the Illustrator’s ‘Fluid Animals’ series. Engaging, beautiful images include a stag, fox, penguin, kingfisher, bear and orca, making for a stunning picture collection you’ll want to keep long after 2013 is through. A3, spiralbound and printed on high-quality 250gsm premium smooth paper with a board-backing. £15 ★ Ben the Illustrator tel: 07976 186442, email: Fiona@ bentheillustrator.com, web: www.bticollection.com
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BLING
EN VOGUE, IN VOGUE
TWINKLE TWINKLE
Diana Porter’s Park Street shop stocks the work of over 70 UK and international jewellery designers, such as Mounir. His exquisite pieces have been dazzling jewellery collectors since the 1980s. Making use of fair trade materials, his collections are handcrafted in London studios by highly-skilled craftsmen. His work has featured in the pages of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and Red. Pictured here: gold-plated silver necklace with pyrite beads (£48) and gold-plated hoop earrings with pyrite beads (£48) ★ Diana Porter 33 Park St, Bristol BS1 5NH, tel: 0117 909 0225, web: www. dianaporter.co.uk
5 C H R I S T M A S.
I T ’ S T I M E T O O N T H E
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B R I N G B L I N G
CHRISTMAS WRAP
A skull might not be the most Christmassy of symbols, but when it’s part of this Alexander McQueen skull wrap bracelet, available from Harvey Nichols, it makes for a stylish and striking Christmas gift (£135) ★ Harvey Nichols 27 Philadelphia St, Quakers Friars, Cabot Circus, Bristol, BS1 3BZ, tel: 0117 916 8888, web: www.harveynichols.com
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ARTISTIC ARTEMIS
This beautiful necklace has been created using freshwater silver baroque pearls and Artemis’s stunning silver bird T-bar. This piece can be made in the pearl colour of your choice (£115). Or how about a silver hammered heart (£30)? Or maybe this Angel Wing necklace, part of Artemis’s new collection. Made with finely faceted natural blue sapphires, it is finished with a gorgeous oxidised angel wing (£175) ★ Artemis 214 Gloucester Rd, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8NU, tel: 0117 924 1003, web: www.artemisbristol.co.uk
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HERALD ANGEL’S WING
Clifton Rocks stocks beautiful handmade jewellery from local and national designers such as this 18-carat goldplated silver angel wings necklace (£139). Their unique, contemporary collection is constantly updated, bringing the latest designs in store. If you’d like a truly one-off item, owner Clare Chandler makes commissions on request at her onsite workshop – and there’s still time for Christmas. Clifton Rocks is holding a Christmas shopping evening on December 6 from 5-8pm ★ Clifton Rocks 100 Queens Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1NF, tel: 0117 973 1342, web: www.cliftonrocks.co.uk
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BEST FRIENDS FOREVER
Leave your bezzies in no doubt as to your love for them with an Estella Bartlett delicate, silver-plated woven friendship bracelet from a wide range at Soukous. Starting from an amazingly reasonable £4.99, they’ll make a lovely statement for your girlfriend (and your bank statement will look pretty tidy too) ★ Soukous 44a-46 Cotham Hill, Bristol BS6 6LA, tel: 0117 923 9854, web: www.soukous.co.uk
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STAR MATERIAL
The Shining Seren (it’s Welsh for ‘star’, dontcha know?) collection has long delighted the capital’s jewellery junkies (and their online cousins). Now it’s Bristol’s turn to be allured by its lustre with a stall in Broadmead’s German Market (near Sainsbury’s) from November 9 to December 28 (10am-7pm daily). This silver and brass feather ring demonstrates wonderfully the collection’s reputation for delicate design and wearability (£39.95) ★ Shining Seren web: www. shiningseren.com
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E A T , D R I N K & B E V E R Y M E R R Y T H I S C H R I S T M A S
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HEAVENLY HEDGEROWS
The Better Food Company, Bristol’s award-winning foodie micro-chain, is delighted to introduce Heavenly Hedgerows - ‘treat-size’ jars and bottles of wild goodness, packed on the day of picking with berries collected in and around Keynsham. From Bramble Vodka and Sloe Gin to Rosehip or Hawthorn Jelly and Elderberry and Bramble Jam – delicious! Join the mailing list at www.betterfood.co.uk to enter a monthly prize draw and receive details of news and offers. November’s prize: a bottle of Heavenly Hedgerows Sloe Gin or Bramble Vodka ★ Better Food Company The Proving House, Sevier St, St Werburghs, BS2 9QS and 94 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2QX, tel: 0117 935 1725, web: www.betterfood.co.uk
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FAB FOR FOODIES
Stuck for a Christmas present? Gift vouchers are perfect for foodie family and friends. Fancy being cooked for? Then a Demuths Restaurant gift voucher is the ideal choice, or if you prefer to learn to cook and enjoy a big sit-down meal, then a day at Demuths Vegetarian Cookery School is the one. Gift vouchers can be purchased online ★ Demuths Vegetarian Cookery School web: www.demuths.co.uk / www.vegetariancookeryschool.com
APPLE OF YOUR EYE
Try a taste of the West Country with a cider gift hamper! This perfect present for the cider lover(s) in your life contains three 75cl bottles of cider (one still, one sparkling and one celebration cider) plus jars of sweet orange marmalade and wholegrain mustard - both made with Somerset cider! £25 ★ Bristol Cider Shop 7 Christmas Steps, Bristol, BS1 5BS, tel: 0117 382 1679, web: www. bristolcidershop. co.uk
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TREATS SPOILT for choice ★ ‘ E M
G I V E W H A T T H E Y R E A L LY WA N T !
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YOUNG AT HEART
Why not give a friend (male or female) one of Clifton Forever Young’s advanced professional facials with a natural peel and a skin assessment for only £50? Their unique formulas can rejuvenate and rebuild skin cells and correct ageing skin signs, provide a deep-cleanse removing follicle blockage and bacteria proliferation, reduce wrinkles, scarring and hyperpigmentation, treat sensitive skin and redness by soothing and nourishing the epidermis and revitalise and hydrate tired and stressed-looking skin. To book your one-hour appointment (in Frenchay or Whitchurch) just call – you won’t be disappointed!
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WHERE IT’S AT
At-Bristol annual membership makes a great gift idea. With prices starting from as little as £38 your loved ones can enjoy free fast-track entry to At-Bristol, discounts in the shop and café and cool membersonly events – proving science is not just for Christmas!
★ At-Bristol Anchor Rd, Bristol, BS1 5DB, tel: 0845 345 1235, web: www.at-bristol.org.uk
★ Clifton Forever Young tel: 0117 973 5559
RELAX!
Relaxation Centre gift vouchers make a perfect present for frazzled friends and family. Pamper your loved ones by giving them a day of cosy luxury and tranquility in the Centre’s beautiful Victorian house and gardens nestled in the heart of Clifton. And this Christmas they are running a truly tempting offer: spend £100 on Relaxation Centre gift vouchers in December, and get a free spa session to enjoy yourself! (Terms and conditions apply, see website for full details). Could this be the most relaxing Christmas shopping ever ★ The Relaxation Centre 9 All Saints Rd, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2JG, tel: 0117 970 6616, web: www. relaxationcentre.co.uk 24 BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED 2012
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GET ANIMATED
Spend a day in the company of an experienced animator/director creating a short animated film. Animation is a great way to express your creativity, telling lively and exciting stories bringing a character to life. After a quick, fun animation lesson, prepare to be a writer, model-maker, set designer/builder, animator, camera person and director. With the guidance of an experienced film-maker, design and make a character, write a story, draw the storyboard and make the film. Animation Days are £50 for the day; you can keep any characters you make and receive a copy of your film. Please email to buy a gift certificate or for more information ★ Animation Days email: animate2012@btinternet.com
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GOOD RING WENCESLAS
Design and create jewellery for yourself, or treat someone to a workshop as a Christmas present with a gift voucher from Alice Goldsack. Workshops range from one day to twelve-week courses and wedding ring days. Alice caters for complete beginners and the more advanced student. The rings in this photo were created by a couple on a one-day course; £65 (per person, all materials and refreshments included) ★ Alice Goldsack web: www. alicegoldsack.com
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ICE, ICE, BABY!
Treat your family and friends to ice skating gift vouchers this Christmas, skating on Bath’s brand new festive ice rink. Gift vouchers can be purchased for sessions at the magical ice rink located in Royal Victoria Park, central Bath, over the festive period from 23 November until 6 January. All ages can skate ★ Bath on Ice web: www.bathonice. com BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED 2012 25
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ETHICAL
Make a difference by celebrating Christmas the right way. This caring Christmas Advent calendar shows you where to meet Santa, get your goose, go carol singing, make your own recycled wrapping paper and lend a hand where it’s needed most.
XMAS
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Recycling isn’t new – it’s been going on in nature for four billion years, as is demonstrated brilliantly by AtBristol’s ‘Our World - No More Waste’ exhibition. Fourteen hands-on experiences should remind you to separate your wrapping paper, satsuma peel and wine bottles when clearing up on Christmas Day. Web: www.at-bristol.org.uk
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Bristol’s Caring at Christmas charity is seeking volunteers who can commit to working at least one four-hour shift over Christmas. Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn and work as part of a team are all that’s needed for you to help out, but if you’re a masseur, musician or magician you’ll find your skills extraordinarily appreciated. Web: www.caringatchristmas.org.uk
Innovative, free resource The Lightbox, in Bristol’s Galleries Shopping Centre , will inform you ‘How to have a Happy Christmas’ via two drop-in advice sessions on Saturday December 15 from 11am-4pm and Tuesday December 18 from 11am-4pm. Web: www.wearelightbox.co.uk
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Put bluntly, there’d be empty spaces at Christmas dinner tables across the world if it wasn’t for the lives saved by blood donors. For details of donation sessions across Bath and Bristol, visit www. blood.co.uk
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Minimise your carbon footprint by buying your Christmas dinner ingredients from the Better Food Company, where organic and seasonal fruit, veg and herbs come eight miles away from the Community Farm and organic meat comes from Berkeley, 19 miles away. Web: www.betterfood.
Liven up those turkey sandwiches, burgers and schnitzels by making your own chutney at a workshop staged by those lovely Windmill Hill City Farm people on Wednesday November 21 from 7-9pm. Web: www. windmillhillcityfarm. org.uk
7 10 9 Many kids hope for a bicycle under the tree come Crimbo morn; Bath Bike Workshop offers a genius scheme whereby you can trade them in when they need the next size up (the bikes, not the children!). Your money’s very well spent because…
The cattle may be lowing but ensure the price you pay for milk at Christmas – and throughout the year – is fair by visiting www. nfuonline.com and clicking on ‘who backs GB dairy’.
...funds raised at the Bath Bike Workshop help homeless charity Julian House. Web: www.bath-bikeworkshop.org.uk / www.julianhouse.org.uk
If you overdid the cream on your Christmas pud, work off the calories with a Boxing Day walk with the outgoing Bath Ramblers Group. Meet outside Royal Victoria Park’s café at 10am to drive to a four-mile stroll around Newton Lakes. Tel: 01275 839567.
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Expect the cheery parts of A Christmas Carol to be made manifest at the eleventh staging of the Wrington Dickensian Christmas Fair on Dec 14. The Joyful Spirits Community Choir and Salvation Army band will be on hand as fairgoers wander around 20 stalls. Mulled wine will help keep out the cold and if you want seconds of singing there’s carols in the Plough later on. Get involved: Web: www.wringtonsomerset.org.uk/organisations/
If something you ate over the festive period doesn’t agree with you, have your own indigestion remedy at hand. Ipsophyto arrange medicinal forages in the Bristol area; get in touch to be prepared. Web: www.ipsophyto.com
12Horfield Organic Community Orchard stage their annual wassail on Jan 19 (2-4pm). Expect merrymaking with Pigsty Morris, trees to be toasted and homemade cakes and mulled orchard juice to be on sale. Entrance is free, and while you’re there, learn of how to join and support this pioneering local food project. To find the orchard (nearest postcode BS7 8JP) walk down the lane beside 22 Kings Drive, turn left and take the first gate on the right. Tel: 0117 373 1587. Email: hocohello@gmail.com. Web: www.communityorchard.org.uk
Blessed are the soap-makers! Show your nearest and dearest how much they mean to you by making their presents. Windmill Hill City Farm is staging a bath bomb and soapmaking workshop (all ingredients provided) on Tuesday November 13 from 7-8.30pm. Web: www.windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk
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Stuck for a Christmas present idea? The Bristol School of Massage and Bodywork is running an introductory massage workshop on 1-2 December equipping you with effective massage skills to use on friends and family. Present dilemma over! Massages make ace birthday presents too (and they’re also handy for Valentine’s Day…) Web: www.bristolmassage.co.uk
If you like the idea of belting out some carols, but like even more the idea of belting them out in a beaut of a boozer, head to Clifton’s Albion. Last year saw around a dozen of The Singing Men of Bristol Cathedral (and a guy on keyboards) accompanied by the pub’s regulars in the fourth staging of a nowlegendary group singing session. Song sheets were handed out, harmonies were performed and vast quantities of hot cider were consumed. A similarly festive evening is promised in 2012 – please call the pub for date and time details. Tel: 0117 973 3522.
You can buy as much or as little as you want of a massive range of ingredients from those friendly Scoopaway people, with products in tubs making for minimum packaging. They did a roaring trade in semolina at Christmas 2006 when Nigella raved about it on her roasters. Just don’t lick your fingers… Tel: 0117 987 2199.
Expect a big ‘Ooh!’ to fill the skies over the Roman City when The One Show’s Alex Jones and Matt Baker switch on the Bath Christmas lights. The event will be broadcast live on Tuesday November 13 as part of this year’s One Show Rickshaw Challenge in aid of BBC Children in Need. Web: www. bathchristmasmarket.co.uk
Order your goose from Rare Butchers of Southville; last year’s birds came from Devon and this year’s will arrive just before Christmas. Turkeys weighing in between 10-18lbs come from Chew Magna. Tel: 0117 966 3593.
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Visit Santa Claus – in his log cabin, no less – at St Werburghs City Farm’s winter fair on Saturday 24 November (12noon-5pm). For just £3 you’ll get an afternoon featuring local craft and gift stalls, family activities, live music and food and drink vendors. A glorious year for British sport will be brought to an end with Christmas pud throwing, wellie wanging and rubber duck catching in the fair’s Field of Dreams games arena. Rain won’t stop play – that’s the spirit! Web: www.stwerburghs.org
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Hundreds of supporters sang Auld Lang Syne to encourage the heroic/insane swimmers braving the Bristol Channel for the annual Clevedon New Year’s Day swim this year. The event on 2013’s first day will be in aid of Secret World Wildlife Rescue. Go along and cheer them on! Web: www.n-somerset.org.uk & www.secretworld.org
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Treat yourself – it is Christmas - and be kind to our four-legged friends with chocolates benefitting a horse sanctuary from Cotham’s Earthbound. Tel: 0117 904 2260.
Gather a family group (two adults and up to three nippers) to make personalised cards, wrapping paper, boxes and gift tags from recycled materials at Arnos Vale’s ‘Christmas all Wrapped Up’ sessions on Sunday December 16. Advanced booking necessary. Web: www. arnosvale.org.uk
Take out a Folio subscription (or give one to a friend) to stay updated with local foodies supporting sustainable eating across Bristol and Bath in 2013.
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DIRECTORY
REMEMBER
CABOT CIRCUS
g i f t giving 5
IS NOT JUST FOR C H R I S T M A S Alice Goldsack web, www.alicegoldsack.com ★ Leading local silversmith running a range of jewellerymaking workshops from her impressive premises in central Bristol. Complete beginners to more advanced students catered for from one-day courses to a 12-week course costing £145 (silver not included). Animation Days email: animate2012@btinternet.com ★ Animation Days for adults, children and schools – please email for details. Aria Lingerie 3 George St, Bath, BA1 2EH, tel: 01225 447700, web: www.arialingerie.co.uk ★ Having opened on Bath’s George Street earlier this year, Aria are fast becoming known for their friendly and exacting service, based on a belief that each lady deserves a personal fit – be it for everyday, maternity or mastectomy. Opening hours: Mon-Thur 10am-5pm (closing 4pm on Mon), Fri and Sat 9.30am-6pm, Sundays in December only. Arnolfini 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA, tel: 0117 917 2300, web: www.arnolfini.org.uk ★ Home to one of the country’s best specialist arts bookshops, stocking over 100 magazines and periodicals on art, design, literature and film plus an excellent range of books on contemporary art and culture. Their staff can order books on request and are aces at finding the ‘hard to find’. Artemis 214 Gloucester Rd, Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 8NU, tel: 0117 924 1003, web: www.artemisbristol.co.uk ★ Artemis is a family-owned jewellery and gift shop on the Gloucester Road. It has been described by its customers as an “Aladdin’s cave of beautiful items” and all are invited in for a browse and a shop. At-Bristol Anchor Rd, Bristol, BS15DB, tel: 0845 345 1235, web: www.at-bristol.org.uk ★ At-Bristol – A World of Discovery! With hundreds of hands-on exhibits to explore, explosive live shows and a Planetarium, At-Bristol is one of the UK’s biggest and most exciting interactive science centres. You can join Morph and friends to explore the world of animation, walk through a tornado and even play with interactive critters from the Jurassic period all in a day’s play. Voted Visitor Attraction of the Year 2011 by Bristol Tourism and Hospitality, it’s also been listed as one of VisitBritain’s top 10 family attractions, and is one of The Guardian’s top 20 UK family-friendly museums. Plus enjoying your family day out is made even easier with lots of family-friendly facilities including indoor and outdoor picnic spaces, lockers and a café serving a delicious selection of locally-sourced hot and cold snacks and meals. At-Bristol’s shop is filled with fun, quirky gifts and gadgets for all the family. Whether it is
special gloves for touch-screen technology, kits for home science experiments or retro gift ideas you’re after, it’s all wrapped up in the At-Bristol shop. Bath on Ice web: www.bathonice.com ★ Create wonderful memories this Christmas ice-skating at the magical ice rink in central Bath’s Royal Victoria Park. The rink will be in place from 23 November to 6 January and all ages can take part – just ensure those not doing so are ready with the camera to capture the fun. Beast 224 Cheltenham Rd, Bristol, BS6 5QU & 29-30 The Corn Exchange, St Nicholas Market, Bristol, BS1 1HQ, tel: 0117 942 8200, web: www.beast-clothing. com & http://beastclothing.shopify.com ★ The unique Bristol-branded clothing line (celebrating its silver jubilee this year) with online shop and website alongside its lush shops. Ben the Illustrator Tel: 07976 186442, email: Fiona@ bentheillustrator.com, web: www.bticollection.com ★ The Ben the Illustrator Collection is a range of fabrics and fabric products created by Ben and Fiona O’Brien. Designed, printed and handmade in the UK, every product is manufactured using unlimited volumes of colour and love. Ben (aka Ben the Illustrator) is renowned for his affinity with nature and the world around us, encapsulating his inspiration in artwork that breathes fresh air and exhilaration. Ben believes that “good places make people feel good”, whether you’re on the coast
SHOPPING MALLS ★ If you’ve left your buying a little later than planned, head to these malls to find the convenience of bigname chains plus the charm of independent shops – usually under the same roof. SouthGate Centre Southgate St, Bath BA1 1AQ, tel: 01225 469061, web: www.southgatebath.com Cabot Circus Bristol BS2 9DA, tel: 0117 952 9360, web: www.cabotcircus.com The Mall at Cribbs Causeway Merlin Rd, Bristol BS34 5DG, tel: 0117 903 0303, web: www.mallcribbs. com The Galleries 25 Union Gallery, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3XD, tel: 0117 929 0569, web: www. galleriesbristol.co.uk Milsom Place Milsom St, Bath BA1 1BZ, tel: 01225 789040, web: www.milsomplace.co.uk
watching birds or on the couch watching TV. Fiona’s passions lie in interior and product design; with an eye for style and a heart for the home, Fiona is perfectly suited to develop Ben’s artwork into a product range adding an exclamation mark to any home. Better Food Company The Proving House, Sevier St, St Werburghs, Bristol, BS2 9QS and 94 Whiteladies Rd, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2QX, tel: 0117 935 1725, web: www. betterfood.co.uk ★ Local, organic, ethical, ‘cheffy’ foods from your favourite Bristol independent micro-chain. See website for great seasonal recipes plus news of local campaigns and events. The seasonal, mostly organic and locally-grown offerings at their St Werburghs café have been recognised by a Food for Life gold catering award. Boutique 33 33 Regent St, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4HR, tel: 0117 973 9570, web: www.boutique33.co.uk ★ Stocks big-name designers such as Masato Jones, Hauber and Amazing Women alongside smaller individual designers from around the world. Boutique 33 is also proud to include fairtrade and organic collections as well as clothing and accessories from local designers. Stock includes clothes, shoes, handbags and jewellery; many of their pieces are one-offs and only limited numbers of each piece are stocked. Located in the heart of Clifton Village, Boutique 33 is surrounded by other fantastic boutiques, shops, cafes and restaurants. Bristol Cider Shop 7 Christmas Steps, Bristol, BS1 5BS, tel: 0117 382 1679, web: www.bristolcidershop.co.uk ★ Bristol’s specialist cider shop, stocking over 80 varieties of quality draught and bottled cider from local producers. Also cider brandy, cider hampers and cider gifts, as well as cider tastings and events. Clifton Rocks 100 Queens Rd, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1NF, tel: 0117 973 1342, web: www.cliftonrocks.co.uk ★ Clifton Rocks’ unique contemporary collection features work by talented national and local designers, including pieces by the shop’s owner Clare Chandler. Clifton Rocks also has an onsite workshop, where Clare can make alterations and repairs and create one-off, handcrafted pieces after discussion and development with clients. Located just off the top of Park Street and The Triangle in central Bristol, Clifton Rocks is a friendly and relaxed environment for you to shop for beautiful and unique jewellery and also stocks a selection of handpicked vintage costume jewellery. Clifton Forever Young Tel: 0117 973 5559 ★ Skincare specialists and distributors of HL professional
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BATH CHRISTMAS MARKETS
BATH CHRISTMAS MARKETS cosmeceutical products in the UK. Their products are bursting with unique formulas to tackle skin-care conditions such as acne, scarring, wrinkles and sagging skin. They have over 300 products that can significantly improve the aesthetics of your skin whatever your concern, helping bring back that youthful, vibrant look you saw in the mirror years ago. You’ll be amazed at the new you staring back. Women and men of all ages and young people are treated. Demuths Restaurant 2 North Parade Passage, Bath, BA1 1NX, tel: 01225 446059, email: reservations@ demuths.co.uk, web: www.demuths.co.uk ★ Rachel Demuth started Demuths restaurant 25 years ago. Head chef Richard Buckley is at the helm and creating light and fresh vegetarian food. Eating at Demuths is a unique dining experience, emphasising fresh flavours and local produce. Voted the Best Vegetarian in the Bath Good Food Awards 2012. Open every day for lunch, and dinner, menus change monthly with the seasons. As well as the excellent vegetarian menu, there are plenty of vegan, wheat-free dishes and gluten-free options. Local vegetables, breads and cheeses are sourced from local suppliers.
Funtastic 22-25 Guildhall Market, High St, Bath, BA2 4AW, tel: 01225 460808, web: www.funtasticonline.com ★ For jokes, magic and gadgets plus fancy dress and tent hire service, all squeezed into their eye-popping Guildhall space. Futon Company 41 Park St, Bristol, BS1 5NL, tel: 0117 922 0215, web: www.futoncompany.co.uk ★ Futon Company first introduced the futon to Europe in 1980, and by 1995 they had become the world’s largest producer of futons. Today, their 21 retail stores throughout the UK sell everything for your sitting room, guest room and spare room, including a wide range of beds, sofa-beds, lighting, storage, textiles and many other items designed for a comfortable, space-saving, modern lifestyle. Gloucestershire CCC Shop The County Ground, Nevil Rd, Bristol, BS7 9EJ, tel: 0117 910 8020, web: www. gloscricket.co.uk ★ Neat cricket shop stocking a range of presents for the lover of the summer game in your life. Everything from attire as worn by the first team through ladies’ clothing and books to stocking fillers to delight the little ones.
Diana Porter 33 Park St, Bristol, BS1 5NH, tel: 0117 909 0225, web: www.dianaporter.co.uk ★ British contemporary jewellery designer Diana Porter creates original designs for her collection and bespoke commissions for clients. Her Bristol shop stocks her full collection as well as the work of over 70 UK and international jewellery designers; full collection available on their beautiful website.
Guildhall Market High St, Bath, BA2 4AW, tel: 01225 460808, web: www.bathguildhallmarket.co.uk ★ The market is one of the longest-running shopping venues in Bath, serving the community for around 800 years and operating from its current venue in one form or another from at least the 16th century. Within, you’ll find coffee, fancy dress, haberdashery, jewellery, organic food, traditional sweet and hardware shops and much more.
Edith Wilmot 5 Carlton Court, Bristol, BS9 3DE, tel: 0117 950 8589, web: www.edithwilmot.co.uk ★ For luxury flowers delivered nationwide, Edith Wilmot have a beautiful selection of flowers to choose from: for the eco-conscious among you, many of them are grown in the UK, and there’s an option of cellophane-free packaging. Order by 2pm and Edith Wilmot will have them there the same day.
Harvey Nichols 27 Philadelphia St, Quakers Friars, Cabot Circus, Bristol, BS1 3BZ, tel: 0117 916 8888, web: www.harveynichols.com ★ Boasts the best in designer fashion, accessories and beauty from the likes of Alexander McQueen, Dolce & Gabbana and Christian Louboutin. Award-winning Second Floor Restaurant & Bar as well as an impressive Foodmarket.
Eton Design 108 Walcot St, Bath, BA1 5BG, tel: 01225 639002, www.eton-design.com ★ Eton Design is a successful interior design practice offering an incredible range of diverse products and customised design services to both commercial and private clients with an underlying commitment to quality and ethical responsibility. Their Bath design showroom is a gateway to an impressive array of products including fabrics, trimmings, poles, finials, contemporary lighting, vintage chandeliers, furniture and bespoke carpets.
iota 167 Gloucester Rd, Bristol, BS7 8BE, tel: 0117 924 4911, web: www.iotabristol.com ★ The place where there’s a present just waiting to happen. The jam-packed shelves of delights offer inspiration for even the most challenging gift recipient. All you need to do is wander. Made Fair Web: www.madefair.co.uk ★ Original Fairtrade woollens and gifts. Their speciality: gorgeous winter accessories in wool and alpaca, all hand-knitted by women in Nepal and Peru. A friendly, ethical business offering inspiring and affordable gift ideas.
★ Turn your shopping into an experience by enjoying Bath’s beautiful Christmas markets. Bath Christmas Market 22 Nov – 9 Dec, Bath City Centre, web: www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk ★ The south west’s biggest and most beautiful Christmas shopping event with over 140 stalls. Find unique and locally handmade toys, crafts, clothing and jewellery amid the sound of carols and the tantalising aroma of roasting nuts and spices - the perfect inspiration when choosing those perfect gifts. Let the food stalls tempt you to sample cheeses, pickles, sausages and more. There are tasters of liqueurs and wines throughout the event, as well as mulled wines and ciders to buy to warm you while you browse – a great reason to leave the car at home, especially with the train station nearby. Stroll through the city centre to discover new stalls by the Carousel and at Milsom Place. With the market running for 18 days, you have plenty of time to return: why not combine your visit to Bath Christmas Market with a skate in the crisp open air with Bath on Ice? If you prefer to get out of the cold, finish your day in a cosy bar or restaurant, or warm yourself in the soothingly warm waters of Thermae Bath Spa. Everyone deserves a treat at Christmas – get yours early in Bath! BathVA Monthly Vintage & Antiques Christmas Markets Tue 13 Nov 7.30am-3pm, Sun 25 Nov 9.30am-4pm (Christmas Market), Tue 11 Dec 7.30am-3pm (Christmas Market), Green Park Station, Green Park Rd, Bath BA1 1JB, web: www.vintageandantiques.co.uk ★ A day out at these fun and free vintage and antique Christmas markets makes perfect shopping sense! Located in a former railway station, savour some warming mulled cider and the live music of Gavin Lazurus as you peruse 60 speciality, hand-picked stalls selling high quality furniture, jewellery, vintage fashion, kitchenalia, homeware and more. Green Park Station Christmas Market Nov 25-Dec 23, Green Park Station, Green Park Rd, Bath BA1 1JB, tel 01225 787910, web: www. greenparkstation.co.uk ★ Starting with the vintage market on November 25 (see above) expect a more Christmassy feel on weekends leading up to Christmas with Sunday December 2 the main event.
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treatments, floatation room, redwood sauna, headclearing eucalyptus sessions, meditation garden and plunge pool. Open seven days a week.
Shop Dutty 116 Cheltenham Rd, Bristol, BS6 5RW, tel: 0117 924 9900, web: www.shopdutty.com • Shop Dutty specialises in one-off and unique designs from the best of Bristol’s independent fashion and jewellery designers. It also boasts a massive selection of affordable 80s/90s vintage clothing and accessories, all housed in the basement beneath the shop. Shining Seren web: www.shiningseren.com ★ London jewellery stall and website featuring in Broadmead’s German Christmas Market until the end of the year.
BRISTOL CHRISTMAS MARKETS ★ These Bristol Christmas markets are bristling with brilliant gift ideas. German Christmas Market 9 Nov-29 Dec, Broadmead East & West, Merchant St South, Bristol, BS1 1UX, tel: 0117 925 7053, web: www. bristolbroadmead.co.uk ★ The fourth consecutive year of this Teutonically-themed market featuring around 65 stalls. Magpies and I Christmas Market 1 & 8 December 11am-4.30pm, Waterfront Square, Harbourside, Bristol, web: www.magpiesandi.com ★ Expect 40 stalls within the jaw-dropping spiegeltent (mirror tent) boasting underfloor heating, and more outside, selling vintage clothing, homeware, furniture, handmade crafts etc with children’s grotto, storytelling, café, bar and, hopefully, chestnut sellers and mulled wine to enhance the festivity. The tent is worthy of attendance alone – it dates back decades and has toured the world. Tobacco Factory Market 2, 9, 16 & 23 Dec, Tobacco Factory, Raleigh Rd, Bristol, tel: 0117 902 0344, web: www.tobaccofactory.com ★ Expect up to 60 stalls – up from the regular 40 – bringing a festive flavour through crafts and gifts at this popular market. Create Centre Festive Fair 30 Nov-Dec 2, 4-9pm Fri, 11am-5pm Sat, 11am-4pm Sun, CREATE Centre, Smeaton Rd, Bristol, BS1 6XN, tel: 0117 925 0505, web: www.createbristol.org ★ New for 2012 – Sunday staging – for more inspirational eco gifts, local crafts and live music. Ashton Court Christmas Food & Craft Fayre Sat 1-Sun 2 Dec, 10.30am-4.30pm, Ashton Court Estate, Bristol, BS41 9JN, tel: 0117 963 9174, web: www. ashtoncourtestate.co.uk ★ Around 35 stalls in an attractive setting offering hog roast and mulled wine to savour as you take in arts, jewellery, ceramics, crafts and prints plus local food and hampers.
Mrs McIndoe web: www.mrsmcindoe.com ★ Worcester-based artist whose skill with a scalpel takes some believing. She uses it to make greetings cards, prints and lampshades featuring intricate, magical patterns making for gifts with great meaning. Her interest in the form began at nursery, where she was drawn to the craft table’s scissors, not its pens. Much later, she used scalpels when studying Interior & Spatial Design at Chelsea College of Art & Design. Today, with paper, scalpel and cutting mat, she works freehand, and while some work is born of considerable forethought, her greatest pleasure is following a train of thought, cutting to create something from nothing; a joy clearly evident in the beautiful end product. Museum of East Asian Art Shop 12 Bennett St, Bath, BA1 2QJ, tel: 01225 464640, web: www.meaa.org.uk ★ The Museum shop sells a unique range of East Asianinspired cards, handicrafts, books, gifts and tea wares to delight all types of visitors. My Small World Toy Store Little Southgate, Bath, BA1 1AS, tel: 01225 938338, web: www.mysmallworld.co.uk ★ My Small World is Bath’s now famous store, renowned for bringing together an ever-changing collection of the most amazing toys for the under-fives. The store in Bath is an utter delight, and its reputation has spread way beyond the borders of the city; the team now ship hundreds of toy parcels nationwide from its funky website. Paula Bowles Email: paula.bowles@gmail.com, web: www.paulabowles.co.uk ★ Bristol-based illustrator/ author whose ‘Scary Mary’ book – inspired by a feisty, feathered Windmill Hill City Farm resident – is doing the business Stateside. Rag Cats Online ordering: www.etsy.com/shop/ RagCats or www.folksy.com/shops/RagCats. Tel: 07747 021463, email: ragcats@rocketmail.com Facebook: www. facebook.com/RagCats, Twitter @RagCats ★ Delightful, engaging, impeccably behaved cats, kittens, dogs and bunnies made with great care and love in Bristol. Their attention to detail is wonderful, with hand-embroidered faces and paws and ribbons, bells and buttons making for heartfelt gifts. Personalisation is invited; names, messages and dates can be incorporated (and they’ll even conjure up other animals upon request). The Relaxation Centre 9 All Saints Rd, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2JG, tel: 0117 970 6616, web: www.relaxationcentre. co.uk ★ There are lots of packages which incorporate the centre’s wonderful facilities to choose from: holistic
Soma Gallery 4 Boyces Ave, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4AA, tel: 0117 973 9838, web: www.somagallery.co.uk ★ Soma opened in Clifton Arcade in June 2004 as a shop and gallery promoting contemporary art, design and illustration. It specialises in limited edition prints by illustrators and printmakers and has several exhibitions a year. Alongside the prints Soma sells a wide range of artworks, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, magazines and books. In September 2010 Soma moved to larger, twostorey premises over the road in Boyces Avenue. The majority of the work displayed is from UK-based artists with many coming from Bristol and the South West. Soukous 44a-46 Cotham Hill, Bristol, BS6 6LA, tel: 0117 923 9854, web: ★ The independent, family-run giftware company is now in its eleventh year and specialises in innovative and beautiful gifts for all ages. Stanfords 29 Corn St, Bristol BS1 1HT, tel: 0117 929 9966, email: stanfordsbristol@gmail.com, web: www. stanfords.co.uk ★ The only map and travel store you need. With every book, map or travel gadget you can imagine, it’s easy to see why Stanfords is a leading travel specialist. This one-stop travel shop has over 150 years of experience and has helped travellers from Florence Nightingale to Michael Palin plan their journeys. Tuesday’s Child 27 Walcot St, Bath, BA1 5BN 01225 311992, web: www.tuesdayschildclothing.co.uk ★ Children’s clothing shop stocking everyday and special occasion clothing from birth to 12 years old. Brands stocked include Mayoral, Hatley, Kite, Emile et Rose and Sarah Louise (including christening). From newborn and christening gifts to baby shower wish lists, Tuesday’s Child will try and cater for all your needs. The Village Pottery 70 Princess Victoria St, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4DD, tel: 0117 973 4343, web: www. thevillagepottery.co.uk ★ There’s a great deal crammed into this family-run pottery wherein ace potter Jen Hamilton creates items combining function and form. Personal, handcrafted and unique – yet designed to be used – Jen works her magic on everything from garlic roasters to dinner services and wedding lists – she’s even kitted out a restaurant before now. Priceless memories are captured through baby-imprinting, branding making a very good impression comes through corporate gifts. If you’re after learning, Jen will teach you, but if you’re just after coffee and cake, you’ll find the freshest offerings (and a dinky garden for summer’s sun). Vivi Cuevas web: www.vivicuevas.com ★ Bristolbased artist whose adorable, irresistible hichi felt soft toy rightfully adorned this guide’s cover last year. She has recently launched her online gallery and shop, displaying her creations from 2006, including chikis, los salvajes, activistas, ai figures and balloon girls. Everything she makes is imbued with her love and vivacious personality; this is soulful, heartfelt art worthy of a wider audience. Buy a piece before she makes it big.
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