The Bath Magazine August 2016 by MC Publishing Limited

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thebathmag.co.uk | ISSUE 167 | AUGUST 2016

PHILL JUPITUS TALKS ABOUT HIS BOTTOM

FROCKS OF AGES BACKSTAGE AT THE FASHION MUSEUM

THE PUMP ROOM DINING IN HISTORIC SPLENDOUR

MUSEUM PIECES DISCOVERING THE CITY’S TREASURES

INDEPENDENT TRADERS BATH’S BEST LITTLE SHOPS

THE BESPOKE

DESIGNERS MEET THE MAKERS OF BEAUTIFUL THINGS

THE CITY’S BIGGEST MONTHLY GUIDE TO LIFE AND LIVING IN BATH

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THE | CONTENTS

AUGUST 2016

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5 THINGS TO DO August’s essentials in Bath

10 MY BATH

44 ARTIST PROFILE The work of Gerry Wright

76 MUSEUMS GUIDE The best in the west

46 SUMMER ART

82 HISTORIC COSTUME

52 SAVOURING BATH

84 HEALTH & BEAUTY

Yang Ding on the East-West link

The multi-talented Phill Jupitus

56 RESTAURANT REVIEW

Art buyer Jessica Lloyd Smith

12 GUEST COLUMNIST 16 FACE THE MUSIC

18 COMPETITION WIN Win £500 to spend at Reiss 20 MEET THE MAKERS Clever people, beautiful things

24 BEST SHOPS GUIDE In praise of the independents

34 BOOKS Whatever your hobby

What’s hanging in city galleries

The delicious new guided tour

Searcy’s at The Pump Room

58 SIX OF THE BEST Celebrating the culinary stalwarts

60 FOOD HEROES Bath Farm Girls

62 WINNING WINES Angela Mount’s pick of the best

64 MOTORING

Test driving the Nissan Infiniti Q30

36 WHAT’S ON Bath’s rich cultural calendar

42 CITY HISTORY

Our industrial heritage revisited

68 BATH AT WORK

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The baddies in your make-up bag

90 CHARITY PROFILE Dorothy House at 40

92 THE WALK The byways of waterside Bath

94 MASTER JOINERS Hawker’s proud legacy

106 HAMPTON COURT Bath gardener wins medal

108 GARDENING

Our Bath in Bloom judge

111 PROPERTY The best homes to buy or rent

Neill Meneer’s portrait of the month

74 FAMILY DIARY Ideas for the school holidays

Even more great content online: thebathmag.co.uk

Backstage at the Fashion Museum

ON THE COVER Dress by Carole Waller, photograph by Andrew Farrar, model: Poppy Skillman Wilson

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Editors Letter August v2.qxp_Layout 1 22/07/2016 16:38 Page 1

SECRET BATH: get out and explore the less visited corners of Bath while the sun shines. This is the tunnel on the Kennet and Avon which leads into Sydney Gardens Photo courtesy of historian and writer Dr Andrew Swift, who is also our walks columnist

from the

EDITOR

t occurred to me mid-way through the creation of this issue that we have a theme running through it, much like letters through an old-fashioned stick of rock (can you buy Bath rock I wonder, idly?). And that theme is one of discovery, of finding new places and new people in a city we thought we knew so well. Our esteemed compiler of walks, Dr Andrew Swift, takes us on a pleasurable amble along the waterways of Bath (Page 92), inviting us to consider the city’s past as we go. Historian Catherine Pitt delves into Bath’s proud industrial heritage within the collections at the Museum of Bath at Work in Julian Road (Page 42), while Jessica Hope enjoys an exclusive backstage tour of the legions of garments stored behind the scenes at the Fashion Museum (Page 82). I took part in the latest tourist offering for Bath, in which American tour guide Jennifer Dugdale has the temerity to offer her Savouring Bath experience to locals as well as visitors. If I tell you that even this jaded old hack discovered something new on this delightful, immersive culinary walking tour, you may want to try it for yourself. I was also lucky enough to dine beneath the magnificent chandeliers of The Pump Room – although I did have a bit of a whinge about my fellow diners’ lack of sartorial elegance (Page 56). Melissa Blease had a good old chat with Phill Jupitus ahead of the comedian’s turn in Shakespeare at the Theatre Royal Bath. I’m pleased to report that she said he was every bit as warm and witty as you’d hope. She’s also been roaming the fields of Corston where they’re raising the only quinoa harvest in the region – if you want to know what quinoa looks when it’s growing, see Page 60. There’s more insider news from an alternative side to Bath from our gardening columnist Jane Moore as she was chauffeur driven in the Mayor of Bath’s car from garden to garden as part of her duties as a Bath in Bloom judge. Read about her adventures on Page 108. We’ve got a bumper harvest of things to do laid out before your feet; in our museums guide, our What’s On pages and our family diary, all filled with suggestions of things to do in the long summer holidays. And, if you’re the sort of person who’s curious about what’s inside other people’s homes you’ll enjoy our gloriously glossy interiors and property pages, which begin on Page 96, with a preview of the London Design Festival. Last but not least, we meet a handful of skilled makers of beautiful, bespoke items, from painted silk clothes to golden dancing shoes – Page 20. Enjoy your summer and we’ll be back in September with more original treats.

Georgette McCready Editor All paper used to make this magazine is taken from good sustainable sources and we encourage our suppliers to join an accredited green scheme. Magazines are now fully recyclable. By recycling magazines, you can help to reduce waste and contribute to the six million tonnes of paper already recycled by the UK paper industry each year. Please recycle this magazine, but if you are not able to participate in a recycling scheme, then why not pass your magazine on to a friend or colleague.

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EDITOR’S PICKS

PARTY TIME: Ian and Christa Taylor, owners of The Abbey Hotel, hosted a stylish party in their latest purchase – No15 Great Pulteney Street before they renovate it to create a boutique hotel. The bare walls of the historic building were adorned with delights, including these seasonal arrangements by Flowers by Passion

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has got a book collection and ❝Anyoneawho garden wants for nothing ❞ MARCUS TULLIUS CICERO

Roman philosopher 106 – 43BC

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ZEITGEIST

things to do in

August

Dress See Bathonians in all their finery for the annual spectacle of Ladies Day at Bath Races, which takes place this year on Saturday 20 August. Gates open at the beautiful Lansdown flat course from 2.30pm, while the first of the seven races begins at 5.05pm. The instruction this year is ‘dress to impress’ – and that’s aimed at the men as well as the women. We’re expecting to see some flamboyant outfits and some headturning hats. As always there are prizes for the best dressed racegoers, including the chance to win the use of a Lexus luxury car for a weekend. This will be the first Ladies Day at Bath when visitors can enjoy the new Langridge stand with its canopied roof terrace, along with new bars and eateries.

Watch Grab a bag of popcorn and a blanket as Bath prepares to enjoy alfresco film evenings this month. Giant screens are being set up behind the Holburne Museum and in Royal Victoria Park for a series of movie nights. The mini season begins on Thursday 11 August at the Holburne Museum with Romeo and Juliet, followed by The Revenant on Friday 12 August and Jurassic Park on Saturday 13. The gardens open from 7pm and the films start at 9pm, or dusk if later.

In Royal Victoria Park, Bath, hundreds of are expected to gather for the screening of classic 1980s high flying adventure romance Top Gun, starring Tom Cruise and Kelly McGillis, on Sunday 28 August from 8.30pm. There is no entrance charge but a collection will be made for the Royal United Hospital’s Forever Friends Appeal, which includes fundraising for a new cancer centre. Get there early to bag a good view. Aviators and flying suits are positively encouraged.

Visit

Admire We’re all familiar with the black metal plaques on Bath buildings marking the homes of the late, great residents – largely men. So three cheers for the new plaque which has been erected on 15 Camden Crescent to commemorate the Victorian adventurer Adela Breton. Miss Breton, who lived in the family home until her death in 1823, made her mark on the world by travelling to remote areas of Mexico to record details – with sketches and journals – of ancient Mayan frescoes. She travelled alone, apart from one manservant, across Europe and the Americas at a time when women were not expected to be solo travellers. There is currently a free, and very well laid out, exhibition on the ground floor of the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institute in Queen Square, Bath, dedicated to Adela Breton’s life and work. Her detailed recording has won her acclaim from museums and academics the world over. The plaque, which is decorated with a Mayan inspired frieze, was sponsored by superyacht designers Pascale R and Reymond and Andrew Langton, who previously lived at No 15 Camden Crescent.

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Parents looking for somewhere free and healthy to take children in the long school holidays should schedule in a visit to Bath City Farm on the hillside above Twerton. Children will love the chance to meet the animals, play on this family-friendly site and maybe lunch and drinks from the café. Parents will enjoy the fabulous far reaching – and ever changing – views from this unrivalled vantage point. The City Farm is a charity too, so donations are much appreciated.

Cheer The Rio 2016 Olympics open oﬃcially on Friday 5 August, although the first heat of the women’s football is on Wednesday 3 August. We’re going to be glued to our screens on Friday 12 August when Bath’s golden girls Helen Glover and Heather Stanning, pictured, (both trained here) defend their rowing medals and on Saturday 13 August which we’re hoping is going to be this summer’s Super Saturday, building on GB’s success at the London Games. Look out that day for Brits Laura Trott, Jessica Ennis-Hill and Mo Farah.

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ist

THE CITY THE BUZZ

Ambassador British actor Jeremy Irons has been appointed as the first ever Chancellor of Bath Spa University. His investiture will take place in the autumn.

Charities The organisers of the Vitality Bath Half Marathon have announced the main charities which will benefit from the 2017 race which takes place on Sunday 12 March. The lead charity is Cancer Research UK and the official Family Fun Run Charity is Cancer Research UK Teens & Kids.The official local charity is Dorothy House Hospice Care, which provides compassionate care and support to people with life-limiting illnesses. Last year’s race raised a record £2.1m for charities.

Walk

Sign up now for the Bath Alzheimer’s Society Memory Walk, which the charity is encouraging people to take part in with family and friends. Teams can choose to walk 2km or take a seven kilometre route round the streets of Bath. Bath’s Memory Walk is one of many taking part nationwide. It’s on Sunday 18 September, meeting at 10am on Bath Recreation ground. Participants, who are encouraged to raise a minimum of £100 a head, will be given an I’m Walking For a World Without Dementia t-shirt. Sign up at: memorywalk.org.uk or tel: 0300 330 5452.

Book of the month How Not to Disappear by Clare Furness, published in paperback by Simon and Schuster, £7.99 Hattie and Gloria are going on a road trip together. Just like Thelma and Louise in the movie. Except Gloria has dementia, teenage Hattie is pregnant and they’re going to Whitby. As Gloria says dismissively of the Hollywood version: ‘our road trip should be much more exciting than theirs.’ Bath author Clare Furness follows up the success of her debut novel, The Year of the Rat,

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My BATH

We ask Jessica Lloyd Smith, owner of online gallery Modern ArtBuyer what she’ll be doing this month What brought you to Bath? Love! I got back in touch with my art college ‘crush’ Adam on Facebook, and moved to Bath to marry him. I’ll never forget stepping off the train at Bath Spa station, seeing him for the first time in 20 years and realising instantly that I’d have to leave London and move to Bath. What are you reading? I’ve just finished Edna O’Brien’s The Little Red Chairs which was totally engrossing and deeply moving. My family often passes around books worth reading, so I have new pile that I need to work my way through. I always have an art book on the go as well so I’m currently reading one of Will Gompertz’s brilliant books too. What is on your MP3 player? My husband Adam and I get all of our music through Napster so the choice is endless, which is great as we have very eclectic tastes. My current favourites are Eska, Lapsley and Jungle with a bit of Kate Bush, Stevie Wonder and Elbow thrown in. Which café or restaurant takes your fancy? I really like Society Café. They are so chilled and friendly, and there is always a cool creative bunch of people there. It’s good for social catch ups but also great for small businesses like mine wanting to work in a buzzy environment. I’ve had some great meals at The Porter recently too. The new Circo bar is very cool. Which museum or gallery will you be visiting? The Holburne is always fantastic so I’ll be popping along to the George Stubbs exhibition there. I also want to venture over to Hauser & Wirth Somerset to see the Martin Creed show. Two world-renown artists right on our doorstep. Your passions? What hobbies or interests will you be pursuing? I enjoy making stuff – sewing, crafts and cooking. My husband bought me a voucher for The

Makery, so I think I’ll be signing up for an upholstery workshop soon. We’re also big music fans so we’ll hopefully be going to see some live bands over the summer. Bath always has plenty to choose from. Film or play? What will you be going to see this month? I have a real soft spot for the Theatre Royal in Bath. It’s wonderful how a fairly small venue can always engender such a sense of occasion. We’ve booked to see the very funny Miles Jupp in September. I’d better order our interval gin and tonics. . . What are you working on at the moment? As Modern ArtBuyer is predominantly an online gallery, I’m not tied to any one physical space which allows me good flexibility to consider a wide range of exhibition possibilities and collaborations. Consequently, I host quite a few pop-up galleries in London and the south west to showcase my artists’ work. In May, I held a pop-up gallery at home just outside Bath, which worked really well with plenty of visitors and good sales. I think visitors appreciated being able to see art in a real home setting, so I’ll be looking at doing more of those. I’ve had recent collaborations in Bath with Bath Boutique Stays and Woodhouse & Law which were good fun and enabled me to present my artists’ work to a whole new audience. I’m taking a stand at the Affordable Art Fair Bristol in early September and then again at the Affordable Art Fair Battersea, London, in late October, which should be great opportunities. I’m currently in talks with a couple of great new artists who I’m hoping to bring on board with Modern ArtBuyer, which I’m really excited about. There will be updates on the website and Twitter (@modernartbuyer) as soon as plans are finalised. n

with this warm and witty tale of an unlikely alliance between two women, the likeable Hattie and glamorous 70-something Gloria who’s not going to let her dementia get in the way of her wearing bright lipstick and heels and of drinking gin. The book explores the issue of memory loss, of making memories and of losing them. Gloria may have forgotten that she’s packed an onion in her suitcase but her recall of her youthful love affair with Sam is as vivid as if it happened yesterday. While Hattie, whose mum is marrying aimiable gym bunny Carl and whose little sister Alice suffers from an over-active

imagination, is naturally worried about her unplanned pregnancy. The author manages a fine line between humour and pathos and she has a cracking ear for realistic dialogue. The plot carries us along at speed, with an underlying sense of sadness and loss. A humane, emotionally satisfying read. GMc

We’re following, with patriotic pride @TeamGB which has almost 700,000 followers. We’re also watching the hashtags #Rio2016 and #BringOnTheGreat as the British and Northern Ireland athletes go to compete at the Olympics in Rio this month.

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THE | COLUMNIST

FROM FAR EAST TO THE WEST

OUR GUEST COLUMNIST IS YANG DING FOUNDER OF NEW SILK ROUTE, A CHINESE DIGITAL MARKETING AGENCY, WHO TALKS ABOUT THE FAST IMPROVING LINKS BETWEEN CHINA AND BUSINESSES IN BATH POPULAR DESTINATION: Bath has seen a huge rise in the numbers of Chinese visitors to the city in recent years

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attention more than the exhibitions, as the objects there transport me back to China. China, like Bath, is famed for its cuisine. I love the Thai, Italian, Indian, and even the American restaurants in Bath, but I’m yet to find a Chinese restaurant that tastes like home. I also enjoy exploring the beautiful British countryside. As a member of The National Trust, I have visited Lacock, Dyrham Park, Stourhead, Tyntesfield House, Prior Park and many others. Amongst these, Greyfield Wood is the one I love most; it is a hidden gem in High Littleton, a small village south of Bath. As it’s relatively unknown, it is always peaceful and quiet. The meandering stream and gentle waterfalls coupled with the beautiful carpet of bluebells make it feel a million miles from the city.

❝

As one of the fastest growing economies in the world, this new link will prove invaluable, as promoting UK businesses in China is often a challenge due to internet censorship

❝

grew up in Harbin, a city in North East China, nicknamed the Ice City. It hosts the famous Ice and Snow Festival, attracting hundreds and thousands of tourists from all over the world every year. My favourite childhood memory is playing basketball on the ice with my father, and sinking a half-court layup. My father, an engineer, bought me my first computer when I was just four years old. It cost him the princely sum of £30; three months of his salary at the time. The computer, a Laser 310, was very basic; in fact, it even ran on a programming language called Basic. I managed to copy out hundreds of lines of code from a book to create my first game; quite a remarkable feat for a four-year-old. In fact, I found coding the game more enjoyable than playing it, and thus, my love of programming was born. I came to the UK in 2002 as a student to study computer science at the University of Bradford. I spent four years in Bradford and gained a Master’s degree with a distinction in software engineering. Then, in 2006, I moved to Bath with my wife and quickly realised how different it is from Bradford. I loved the city so much I applied for permanent residence in 2012. I worked at a local online scientific publication called SelectScience for nearly ten years. Working in the small development team there meant I quickly gained experience in all aspects of web development. I was promoted through to IT architect, which gave me the freedom to try the latest development technologies, my favourite part of the job. When not working, I enjoy visiting the museums and galleries in Bath. My favourite is the Museum of East Asian Art in Bennett Street. Calligraphy is one of my many hobbies, so I find the elegant scrolls in the museum shop enthralling. The gift shop often holds my

In 2014, I created a public Weibo account (A hybrid of Facebook and Twitter for Chinese people) to share my experiences of Bath. I immediately gained a large following from the Chinese students of Bath and the account grew rapidly in popularity. On the back of this, I started working with VisitBath, on the Welcome China programme, and now manage its new VisitBath Weibo account. This has been a huge success and formed a new way for Chinese businesses and

potential visitors to connect with Bath. As one of the fastest growing economies in the world, this new link will prove invaluable, as promoting UK businesses in China is often a challenge due to internet censorship. Managing social media is fun, and I am privileged to hear about all the latest events happening in Bath. It also allows me to communicate with other Chinese people, both here in Bath and back in China. It can be challenging, however, as there is such a big difference between the two cultures. For instance, when reporting on events such as Glastonbury, I have to explain what the event is before I can begin to talk about the music and atmosphere. The good thing is that communicated in the right way, this sort of information is met with enthusiasm and interest from VisitBath’s Chinese audience. As well as managing Weibo, I offer marketing advice directly to the Welcome China programme partners. I help them understand what Chinese tourists expect, the best way to reach out to Chinese tourists, and how to improve any existing Chinese materials. I also help staff at VisitBath to welcome Chinese officials, such as the Vice Mayor of JiNan city Mr Tan Yanwei and the Chinese Ambassador Mr Liu Xiaoming, to the south west. We live in a golden era for UK-China relations. The landmark visit to the UK by Xi Jinping, the Chinese President last autumn yielded nearly £40 billion worth of new deals. Subsequently, the UKChina relationship has reached new heights, providing new opportunities for the British economy, which has become especially important since the result of the EU referendum was announced. I look forward to seeing how this relationship will continue to grow, and to see the positive effect that it will have on businesses in Bath. n

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FACE | THE MUSIC

‘IT’S A FUNNY OLD TIME’

Melissa Blease talks to comedian, poet, TV and radio presenter and actor Phill Jupitus ahead of his visit to Bath, about tackling Shakespeare and his favourite pieces of music

sk a selection of people what Phill Jupitus does, and it’s likely that you’ll receive a wide variety of responses. This remarkable Renaissance man of many parts started his onstage life as a punky performance poet back in the 1980s, and, by contrast, last year co-starred with fellow comedian and actor Jason Manford in a tour of Mel Brooks’ musical The Producers. You may also recognise him as long-standing team captain on BBC2’s popular musicbased quiz show Never Mind the Buzzcocks, or in the role of Edna Turnblad in the smash-hit musical Hairspray, or for being one of Radio 4’s I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue stalwarts. Phill is also a regular QI panellist, and a former BBC Radio 6 breakfast show DJ – and still, there’s more to his CV. This summer Phill’s career path follows another route entirely as he makes his Shakespearean debut as comic character Nick Bottom in a new production of the Bard’s best-loved comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by the Olivier award-winning artistic director of the Ustinov Studio Laurence Boswell and also starring members of the Royal Shakespeare Company. It promises, with the inclusion of music, dance and spectacle, to be an unforgettable celebration of Shakespeare’s 400th anniversary at the Theatre Royal Bath. So, Phill is set to represent something else to somebody else again. Is the latest incarnation of the Jupitus juxtaposition on the popular culture SatNav part of a cleverly calculated career path? “Absolutely not – that would suggest ambition or a thought process at work!” he laughs. “My career has been very reactive and I’m useless at networking anyway. If you put me in an audition situation I immediately start suggesting who would be a better person for the job.” But Phill must have auditioned for the role of Bottom the Weaver, surely? “Actually, not really. The very first time I met Laurence, I thought we were just having a chat over coffee. We talked about Shakespeare, and work, and lots of general stuff, and then he said, ‘well if you want this job, it’s yours’ – that was it, a job offer straight off the bat.” Not bad for a man who claims to be far removed from what might be called a Shakespeare aficionado. “Admittedly I did a lot more research 16 TheBATHMagazine

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before seeing Laurence again,” says Phill. “But the thing is, there are many different Bottoms to have a look at – even Benny Hill played Bottom in the late 1950s. But Laurence has a very interesting vision for my role. “It’s common to play Bottom as an idiot, but while he’s not the brightest character, he’s actually quite smart. And it’s an interesting part for a stand-up to play too, because stand-ups are really presenting an amped-up version of themselves.” Is Phill implying that his Bottom be an amped-up version of his own personality, I wonder? With Bath set to be his home for

almost a month, Phill is looking forward to exploring the city, simply being himself. “I’ve visited the Roman Baths before, and I loved suddenly finding myself underground by that big, quiet, ancient pool. The first time I saw it I burst into tears because it’s so beautiful. But I’ll make time to get to know the rest of the city too. I’ll be getting up very early, finding good places for breakfast, and taking it from there.” Look out for him about Bath over the coming month. Like Shakespeare’s fairies, Phill Jupitus wanders everywhere, sprinkling his unique kind of magic wherever he goes – this Bottom is at the top of his game

NEW DIRECTION: Phill Jupitus says his audition for Shakespeare consisted of a chat over coffee with Bath director Laurence Boswell

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FACE | THE MUSIC

HEART AND SOUL: above, Gogol Bordello and below, Billy Bragg, Elvis Costello and the Clash

PHILL’S TOP TEN TRACKS: Transglobal Underground – Drinking in Gomorrah This is my post-Brexit song choice, all about the fact that there’s a wider world out there. When I look back over my life, I think about the brilliant bars I went to, the places I hung out in, and the people I hung out with – it’s a world we shouldn’t shut ourselves off from, and it’s up to us how we shape that world.

Wagner – Mild und leise wie er lächelt (from Tristan and Isolde) I saw Emma Rice’s Kneehigh Theatre production of Tristan and Yseult at the Bristol Old Vic in 2013 and this song was part of the climax that supported a brilliant retelling of the legend. The way it builds is just extraordinary. It actually kind of physically punches me in the chest and makes my breathing go a bit weird – I can’t not cry when I hear it.

Elvis Costello – A Slow Drag with Josephine I love Elvis Costello and I couldn’t not have something by him on a top ten playlist. I tend to go and see him twice when he tours the UK, early on and then again near the end, because I love to experience the arc of his work. He’s a great entertainer, and one of my favourite people to be in the same room with.

Gogol Bordello – Baro Foro Gogol Bordello are basically a bunch of Ukrainian/Russian/New York gypsypunks – they’re like the Pogues, the

Specials and the Clash, all having a fight. The first time I saw them play live, the energy they brought on to the stage was just amazing. They looked like a band that had already done a really good gig and were doing the encore. I love their physicality, and their energy – they’re just extraordinary.

Billy Bragg – There Is Power in a Union Billy is an old friend of mine and I wouldn’t be talking to you now if it wasn’t for him, so this is a personal emotional choice. The boy walks it like he talks it, and we need more people like him in the world. Seriously, he’s one of my greatest friends.

The Clarendonians/The Tartons – Lonely Heartaches There’s something really beautiful about the structure of late 1960s / early 1970s reggae. The bounce, the feel, the silky vocals, the horns. The fact that there aren’t any machines involved – often there’s somehow a really evocative sadness going on, but at the same time, totally uplifting. This track is just lovely, for all those reasons.

Georges Brassens – Les Copains D’abord Look for the version of this song on YouTube, with Brassens playing live on a French TV show in the early 1960s. He’s such a dude, the coolest guy in the world – like Joe Strummer of the Clash kind of cool, but an old French guy in a suit. And his voice is really amazing.

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The Clash – Something About England For me, this is another song that reflects exactly where we are now. There’s this element of massive uncertainty at the moment, but when you hear a song like this, it grounds you a bit, and reminds you of the cyclical nature of what we’re going through at this funny old time.

Rilo Kiley – With Arms Outstretched This song is just beautiful. I don’t know a lot of Rilo Kiley and I need to know more, but that’s the wonderful thing about music – so much is out there, waiting for you to discover it. I used to love discovering new music when I did the radio show on Radio 6, it’s always been one of my favourite things. One day back then someone sent me a compilation album, and this track was on it – there’s just something so very gorgeous about it.

Elizeth Cardoso – E De Lei This song has a really unique bounce to it – a spirit, a vitality. It’s evocative for me too; when I was in Ipanema Beach in Brazil to film Mike Basset: England Manager back in 2002, I ate in the very room where Gilberto Gil wrote Girl from Ipanema. It’s an amazing place, there’s music playing constantly everywhere – and this track is the sound of that place. n A Midsummer Night’s Dream is at the Theatre Royal Bath, from 4 – 20 August. For tickets visit: theatreroyal.org.uk. Follow Phill on Twitter: @jupitusphillip.

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WIN £500 TO SPEND AT To celebrate the arrival of Reiss at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Swindon, one lucky reader could be in with the chance of winning a £500 gift card to be spent in store.

Since its launch in 1971, Reiss has developed a loyal fan base thanks to its heritage of exceptional quality and a reputation for producing inspirational, design-led clothing. Offering everything from fine tailoring to easy-to-wear relaxed pieces, the new store will showcase the very best of the brand’s menswear, womenswear and accessories and provide Swindon shoppers with the chance to get their hands on some of Reiss’ most desirable pieces.

At McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Swindon you can find your favourite labels with price reductions of up to 60%, all year round. To find out more go to swindondesigneroutlet.com. How to enter: Simply answer this question: In which year was Reiss founded?

Send your answer along with your full name and contact details to: competitions@thebathmagazine.co.uk. Entries can also be received by post. Send your answer with your name and contact details on a postcard to 2 Princes Buildings, George Street, Bath, BA1 2ED. Entries must be submitted by midnight on 31.08.16. Details of all entries will be kept on a database and used by Reiss for marketing purposes.

Terms & Conditions: The prize is as stated and consists of one £500 gift card to spend at the Reiss store at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Swindon. The prize is non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash or used in concessions.

Gold & Platinum Studio Handmade and Bespoke Jewellery Beautifully crafted engagement rings, wedding rings and fine jewellery designed and traditionally handmade on the premises. All types of jewellery remodelled. Efficient repair service. Established 1970

19 Northumberland Place, Bath BA1 5AR | Tel: +44 (0)1225 462 300 email: mike@goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE : www.goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk

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ADD NEW STYLE TO YOUR LATE SUMMER LOOK WIN A ÂŁ50 VOUCHER FROM DENTS' FACTORY SHOP

Here's an opportunity to add new style to your wardrobe.

Dents' Collections of stylish handbags, scarves, hats and signature gloves in luxury leathers and fabrics are sold in the finest shops and department stores in over 30 countries worldwide.

The Dents' Collections can be viewed on line at www.dents.co.uk and at their factory shop at Furnax Lane, Warminster, BA12 8PE where you will find the finest accessories for every occasion plus an exciting range of small leather goods and gift ideas. Gift vouchers are also available. Now here is a chance for eight lucky winners to each win a voucher for ÂŁ50 which can be used against the purchase of any Dents accessory in the factory shop. To win one of these prizes, all you need do is give the correct answer to the following question. In what year was Dents last granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment? Was it in:

A. 1848

B. 1934

C. 2016

Please email your answer, together with your full name and address, to: Competition@dents.co.uk Established 1777

www.dents-outlet.co.uk

The competition closes on Friday 23rd September and the first eight correct answers drawn will be notified soon after that date. For full rules and regulations, please contact the Bath Magazine. Please note that vouchers are only redeemable for Dents branded products on sale in the Dents Factory Shop and are not exchangeable for online goods or cash. All merchandise is offered subject to availability

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UNIQUE | SERVICE

BEAUTIFULLY BESPOKE Meet the makers and designers who create unique pieces for their customers

THE MILLINER

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arrie Jenkinson is an award-winning hat designer whose creations can be seen on some of the most stylish racegoers at Ascot in the UK, at the Kentucky Derby in the United States and at the Melbourne Cup in Australia. “The Australians really go for it,” she says. “They love a big, attention-seeking hat. They love to go for the biggest and brightest designs.” Carrie’s millinery business has really taken off in the five years since she set up a workshop in the shed at her Wiltshire country home. Since then her hats and fascinators have featured in Vogue five times and she’s progressed to an office: “But it’s still just me as I make all the hats myself.” If we’re heading for Ladies Day at Bath Racecourse or a wedding, should we pick our hat first or our outfit? Carrie’s

aUgUST 2016

advice is: “I would start with the outfit and then talk to me about what you’d like. If you’re nervous about wearing a big hat then a fascinator is much easier. I make all my designs really light to wear with a tiny little headband that you can wear all day. People usually send me photographs of their dress and I work from those. I can match the colours exactly, for instance a designed a headpiece for a deep red feather dress by Alexander McQueen and when you’re working with feathers you can dye them the exact shade you want.” Carrie is currently designing her autumn/winter collection, inspired by nature and has created a collection for House of Fraser which can be seen in Oxford Street. “I really enjoy making hats and fascinators for individuals. People enjoy the chance to get dressed up and my prices aren’t that high.” Visit: carrie jenkinson.co.uk.

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UNIQUE | SERVICE

THE JEWELLERY DESIGNER

ustomers who find themselves with a collection of worn but well-loved items of jewellery, can turn to designers to help them re-imagine the individual pieces. Long-established Bath jewellery designer Nicholas Wylde, who runs a shop and design studio in Northumberland Place, specialises in breathing new life into pieces which have a sentimental past, to create a new piece of contemporary jewellery designed for today and the future. Carolyn Gosland owned two old and worn diamond brooches that were no longer part of her jewellery wardrobe. She took them into the Nicholas Wylde studio where they talked about her personal style and taste, before he drew up some designs for her. Making something new from old gives the customer the chance for their own creative ideas to take form and be incorporated along with the suggestions from the in-house team of designers. Gold from the old jewellery is melted down

THE SILK ARTIST

and precious stones are extracted to form the core ingredients of something new and fresh. On seeing the finished pieces of jewellery Carolyn said: “Wow, wow, wow! Nicholas has turned two pretty but unfashionable diamond brooches into a stunning set of necklace, brooch and earrings. I’m thrilled with them all and cannot praise Nicholas and his team for their design and craftsmanship highly enough.” The team created three pieces; a multidiamond bangle consisting of a wide yellow gold hinged bangle with diamonds across the top section in white gold rubover settings and collets and set into a flow of diamonds in white gold grain settings, a multi-diamond set necklace, consisting of a centrepiece of diamonds in white gold rubover settings and collets and set amongst a flow of diamonds in white gold grain settings with a yellow gold collar, and a pair of multidiamond inter-changeable earrings, each consisting of a swirl stud earring with a central diamond in a white gold rubover setting and surrounded with smaller diamonds in grain settings. The drop section has three diamonds in white gold rubover settings and surrounded by smaller diamonds in grain settings. Nicholas Wylde and his team also enjoy designing pieces from scratch. Couples getting engaged or married can make an appointment to go and talk about their own ideas for stones and designs and see the design process right through until the day they put those rings on their fingers and begin to live their happy ever after. Visit: nicholaswylde.com.

arole Waller is a painter who specialises in painting with dye directly onto cloth to make unique silk clothing – or wearable art. You’ll never see someone else wearing an identical piece. She has perfected the art of painting onto silk, making a wearable and washable painting of great richness in mark and colour. Her current collection features the multi-layered history of Bath – looking at its stones, its archaeology and its connection to water. Her clothes – dresses, jackets, blouses and t-shirts – are contemporary, stylish and timeless and are worn by all ages for any occasion. She makes pieces to commission for special occasions such as weddings – or just to get the perfect combination of colour, cloth and style for her client. Carole’s finished pieces are lightfast and washable. A variety of techniques are sometimes used in the paintings to achieve a semi transparent effect – a unique cloth which creates shadows because of its transparency, and which shimmers with colour. She also makes large scale paintings on cloth which hang freely in space or against walls – and she also laminates the paintings between toughened glass to create panels as freestanding artworks, screens, door panels and water features. The laminated glass panels are toughened low iron glass withstanding huge extremes of temperature. They can be used indoors and outside as freestanding artworks on plinths – or incorporated into any situation where glass might be used. She has made paintings for residential and public spaces and has extensive experience working with teams of consultants, architects, interior designers and other artists on collaborative large scale projects. Carole began to make wearable art in 1986. Her work is featured in many books on contemporary textiles and is found in museums such as the V&A, private collections and contemporary galleries internationally. She has sold through Harvey Nichols, Liberty of London and Bergdorf Goodman in New York – and is now available at One Two Five gallery in Bath where you can meet her by appointment. She co-directs the space with ceramicist Gary Wood, whose art and beautiful functional pottery is also to be found there alongside a changing collection of contemporary jewellery. One Two Five Gallery celebrates its first birthday in Abbey Green on Sunday 14 August.

ART FOR THE GARDEN: silk and glass water feature installation by Carole Waller

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THE IRON DESIGNER

ronart is one of Bath’s most original artisan businesses, creating beautiful and useful wrought and cast iron items, from garden gates and drain covers to designer pieces, including the fine sign which hangs over Bartlett Street. The Larkhall studio’ owned by Andy Thearle, pictured, recently produce a pavilion for the Royal Crescent Hotel, in a small, private garden for weddings. The pergola was to be inspired by a tented pavilion that Ironart had made for Michelin star chef Frances Atkins at The Yorke Arms in Harrogate, so she could accommodate up to eight diners in the gardens. The Royal Crescent Hotel’s wedding pergola wasn’t required to be tented, but it needed to not look out of place against the Georgian buildings around it. For weddings the pergola can be wreathed in flowers and guests can enjoy a clear view of the happy couple. Visit: ironart.co.uk.

THE SHOE DESIGNER

hanii B, the designer shoe brand of Chantal Pilon, offers a bespoke service to customers who want a unique shoe for special occasions. Owner and designer, Chantal Pilon, who has a shop in Milsom Place, Bath says: “We already offer a wide range of styles, but sometimes when a customer has a special occasion, and they want a specific style to match an outfit, we suggest a bespoke pair. We have made bespoke shoes for mothers and daughters, artists, business women, musicians, for occasions such as weddings, Ascot, graduations, awards ceremonies and TV appearances.” One recent project was for a mother and daughter, Pamela and Rhianwen Dennis, who both wanted stand-out shoes for Rhianwen’s wedding this month. Chantal says they both knew of Chanii B already, and went to her as they wanted to be sure they had super comfortable shoes to wear all day. Chantal says: “Rhianwen never wanted a standard white wedding shoe. She wanted something individual and different that would show up against her dress. She chose the La Lune laser cut style, and had them created in the beautiful blue silver foil leather, which tie in with the blue dresses her bridesmaids will wear, and her silver jewellery. “Mum Pamela chose Luca, a slightly lower heel design, and went for the eye-catching multicoloured foil leather, which looks stunning. Both styles lace up with ribbons, and Pamela and Rhianwen love the fact that they can change the ribbons to create different looks after the wedding.” The big day is in August, but mother

COMFORT AND STYLE: bespoke wedding shoes made for a bride and her mother in collaboration with shoe designer Chantal Pilon, who is pictured outside her Milsom Place shop

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and daughter both love their shoes so much, they plan to wear them many times after that. The bespoke service offered at Chanii B can work in one of two ways – the first, like with Rhianwen and Pamela, involves the customer first visiting the shop to meet Chantal and discuss what they are looking for, and then trying on many pairs of shoes to find a shape and style that fits well and suits their foot. They then choose leathers from Chantal’s extensive supply of leather swatches and discuss any other customisation of the design. The factory in Portugal is briefed and they will be made in six to 12 weeks. Chantal loves the moment when the customer comes to collect their finished shoe. “It’s such a special moment – so exciting for everyone, when they unwrap their shoes, and see what we’ve created together, and slip them on. Like Rhianwen and Pamela, they are always over the moon – it’s pretty special to have your own unique shoe, especially if it’s for a significant occasion like a wedding. It can be a very emotional moment!” Chantal always autographs them and many customers also have matching bags made. The alternative option is a fully bespoke product, created from scratch. This is a more intensive design process, requiring Chantal to take a full brief, and create a new style and pattern, and sometimes even a new last. This involves Chantal working with customers on every last design detail. The overall lead time is four to six months, for obvious reasons, and payment is taken upfront. Visit chaniibshoes.com

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UNIQUE | SERVICE

THE GILDER

THE JEWELLERY DESIGNER

airy tale shoes in shimmering gold or silver and fit for a queen was the inspiration behind Somerset based Thomas & Sullivan’s unique gilded

shoes. It all began after master gilder Glenny Thomas had spent a fruitless and exhausting day in London with her daughter Charlie, who was searching for the perfect pair of wedding shoes for her big day. She wanted to find the perfect pair: glamorous and striking, yet comfortable enough to dance the night away in. On finishing the shopping expedition empty-handed, Glenny had an idea. She had spent many years training and working as a gilder and offered to gild a pair of her daughter’s shoes. Gilding is the technique of applying gold or silver leaf to a solid surface, so why not gild on to leather shoes? The resulting shoes were a huge success, with the bride and her guests. Charlie did indeed dance the night way in her beautiful yet comfortable shoes, gilded in 24-carat gold. And so Thomas & Sullivan was born, delivering clients their gilty pleasures. The service has gone on to gild all kinds of shoes, from baby’s first pair to a gentleman’s favourite cut-a-dash brogues. Visit: thomasandsullivan.com Each order is dealt with on an individual basis.

ollowing with tradition, Richard had given Helen an eternity ring on the birth of their first child. Ten years on and the setting edge had worn thin through wear, causing a diamond to fall out. Helen’s mother had recently remodelled a sentimental piece of jewellery at Jody Cory Goldsmiths and was thrilled with being able to wear something so precious to her once more. This inspired Helen to use her original ring, along with the two diamonds her mother had given her, which now represents both her children, into a ring she can wear alongside her original engagement ring and wedding ring, both of which were white gold. After discussing what Helen wanted and how she cares for her jewellery (‘I never take them off. I even wear them gardening’) Helen wanted to wear the ring every day so rubover settings were chosen. They are suitable for everyday wear while protecting the diamonds. Helen adores her new eternity ring as it holds lots of memories to treasure and represents each generation of her family. Throughout the month of August Jody Cory is offering 10% off all commissions at her studio in Abbey Church Yard. Visit: jodycory.co.uk.

GILTY PLEASURES: almost any shoe can be gilded gold or silver and the traditional gilding process can also be applied to handbags or leather belts

THE CAKE MAKER

aker Sarah-Jane Shepherd of Minky Kitten Cakes was recently invited to make a cake fit for a real princess. It was presented before Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, at celebrations to mark the 40th anniversary of Dorothy House Hospice Care. Sarah-Jane, who was a teacher before her career change into cakes, was commissioned to design and make the cake before she was then told who the guest of honour was to be. Minky Kitten (the name comes from her affectionate nickname for her three young sons, a cross between stinky and monkey) grew from Sarah-Jane making a few cup cakes for her local café. She makes around a dozen commissioned cakes each week, largely for weddings and birthdays. She talks to the customer first so the cake can be personalised, from the flavour (lemon, chocolate and carrot cake are all popular) to the sugarcraft models on top. One happy couple were recently modelled in their Glastonbury wellies and people often choose a likeness of their dog to accompany the bride and groom figures on the cake. Sarah-Jane can happily cater for gluten free cake eaters too and, as she says: “Minky Kitten Cakes are all made with love, not calories.” Visit: minkykittencakes.co.uk.

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BEST LITTLE SHOPS

TOP

of THE SHOPS

Every year The Bath Magazine pounds the pavements and checks out all the must-visit small shops around the city. From firm old favourites to well deserved newcomers, these are the little stores that make Bath one of the finest shopping experiences outside London

FLOCK BATH

MAGALLERIA

12 – 13 The Corridor, Bath, BA1 5AP Tel: 01225 442227 Web: flockbath.co.uk

22a Broad Street, Bath, BA1 5LN Tel: 01225 471586 Web: magalleria.co.uk

Flock Bath sells beautiful clothes and accessories in a lovely independent environment that is rarely found on the high street. Located in The Corridor (the world's second oldest shopping arcade) they stock a range of Italian imported fashion wear and accessories. Find something different for your wardrobe and pop in and see them today. Flock Bath are stockists of Ruby Shoo shoes and Disaster Designs accessories.

Magalleria is a unique store selling magazines, artist’s books and zines. Within a vast range of international, independent and specialist periodicals you’ll find many imports exclusive to the store. Magalleria has strong depth in art, design and interior design, fashion, lifestyle food, travel and literature. Print is not only ‘having a moment’. Magazine quality is better than ever. The elements that make up a magazine are now more carefully considered and designed to make reading a more tactile, visually seductive and pleasurable experience. Compelling content, uncoated paper stock and full-bleed photography is becoming the norm. Magalleria is packed with ideas, information and inspiration for everyone.

CLANDAR 15 Cheap Street, Bath, BA1 1NA Tel: 01225 335486 Web: clandar.co.uk Fancy an exclusive British tweed jacket, coat or suit expertly hand cut and hand tailored in England? Clandar offers its own clothing ranges, for both men and women, hand tailored by their English tailors, using British tweed, real horn buttons and linings carefully sourced by themselves. Their off the peg tweed ranges are made in tiny production runs and are only available from their Bath shop and website, offering genuine exclusivity, as well as top quality British design and fabrics. Their clothing is highly wearable and successfully combines the history and heritage of British tweed, with sharp lines and modern cuts. Made to order is also available in your choice of British tweed and lining, as is field wear. They offer accessories too in merino lambswool, British tweed and indulgent grade A Scottish cashmere – which comes from the underbelly of the cashmere goat, where the softest, finest, most luxurious cashmere fibre is found. The atmosphere is distinctly friendly and relaxed and customers are more than welcome to just come and try items on without any obligation.

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BEST LITTLE SHOPS

ROBERT WELCH 6 Broad Street, Bath, BA1 5LJ Tel: 01225 336530 Web: welch.co.uk

HOMEFRONT INTERIORS 10 Margaret's Buildings, Bath, BA1 2LP Tel: 01225 571711 Web: homefrontinteriors.co.uk Homefront Interiors opened its doors in April and in just a few months there has been a huge response from Bath locals and visitors alike. They sell an everchanging selection of interiors and homewares and try to follow an ethos of sustainability, whether that means recycled materials, fair-trade origins, smallscale handmade production, or simply showing a little love and care to vintage finds rather than replacing them with something new. It’s not just about the old, though – at Homefront they love the juxtaposition of vintage and contemporary styles, and also stock exquisite handmade work from a number of local artists, including ceramics, textiles and upholstery. Homefront is also Bath’s chosen partner for the fabulous Grand Illusions range of vintage paints, a great chalk-based paint ideal for both interiors and furniture, and tucked away underneath the shop is the perfect space for classes and workshops.

Robert Welch is well known for the exceptional design, quality and functionality of its products. With over 50 years of industry experience and award wining products from its in-house design team, this brand offers a unique range of cutlery, kitchen knives, utensils and tableware. Bath was chosen as a location for the Robert Welch Studio Shop as the city’s rich design heritage lends itself well to the company ethos. The company founder, Robert Welch (1929 – 2000) was an inspirational designer who believed that everyone should be able to use beautifully designed pieces in everyday life. Still family-run, the company is now an international brand with an extensive range of products including awardwinning signature kitchen knives and over 30 traditional and contemporary cutlery designs. Today the company’s products can be found around the world in department stores, on the tables of top restaurants, in the rooms of five star hotels and in the Robert Welch Studio Shops in Bath, Chipping Campden and Warwick.

THE FRAMING WORKSHOP 80 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BD Tel: 01225 482748 Web: theframingworkshop.com We all have drawers where you hide away Grandad’s medals or a collection of antique corkscrews, a signed rugby shirt or a child’s first shoes. Why not frame, display and enjoy the memories that these can evoke? The variety of unusual items The Framing Workshop has framed is vast and the store believes it can frame pretty much anything.

KATHERINE FRASER 74 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BD Tel: 01225 461341 Web: katherinefraser.co.uk Katherine Fraser is celebrating the end of her fourth year in Bath this month and August also sees the second anniversary of the Walcot Street store opening. Watch Katherine at work in store on her loom. This is sheer retail theatre and almost all of the accessories are created in the shop studio by Katherine and her team. Her work is known for its gorgeous colour combinations and its beautiful feel against the skin, with all the products being made from 100% natural fibres. This young ambitious talent carries a mission to take artisanal weaving into the mainstream, accessibly priced, imaginatively conceived and created with passion. Katherine also offers an in house bespoke design service, creating fabrics and products for both fashion and interiors. The store celebrates the work of other British designers too, with silver jewellery made in Dorset, clothing by Beaumont Organic and cashmere from English Weather. Weaving workshops now take place throughout the month so that you can try weaving for yourself, be it as a beginner or if you’re wanting to progress your skills further. Go in and watch a master craftswoman at work.

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BEST LITTLE SHOPS

GREAT WESTERN WINE

GOLD & PLATINUM STUDIO

Wells Road, Bath, BA2 3AP Tel: 01225 322810 Web: greatwesternwine.co.uk

19 Northumberland Place, Bath, BA1 5AR Tel: 01225 462300 Web: goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk

This stalwart of Bath is a deserved regular inclusion in our Best of Bath Guides. Great Western Wine’s shop is an Aladdin’s cave of over 1,000 of the world’s best wines and an eclectic range of rare, small batch spirits. Old-fashioned service is matched with modern, award-winning wines, as recognised by the International Wine Challenge, who voted GWW the Best Wine Merchant in south west England. A selection of wines is always open for tasting, and enthusiastic, experienced staff encourage visitors to linger and browse while helping to find the perfect wine. Prices at every level are competitive. A mail order service is also available and the same attention to detail and personal advice is available by phone, email or through the website: www.greatwesternwine.co.uk. Regular wine tasting events and dinners sell out quickly, at GWW and at some of Bath’s best restaurants which are supplied with its wines.

Traditional goldsmith and gemmologist Michael Parsons, with his highly experienced team run a very pretty shop offering a range of beautifully crafted engagement rings, wedding rings and fine designer jewellery. As well as its workshop’s own creations, pieces by other notable British and European designers are also on display – offering a superb choice to fit all budgets. Above the gallery, Michael runs the workshop where he undertakes special commissions, but also carries out repairs, and jewellery adjustments. Trading in Bath for more than 40 years, with an enviable reputation, makes a visit to the Gold and Platinum Studio an absolute pleasure and its jewellery will always be treasured.

UP TO SEVEN 6 Pulteney Bridge, Bath, BA2 4AX Tel: 01225 422333 Web: uptoseven.co.uk Have you found this beautiful shop on Pulteney Bridge? Here they make and sell lots of dresses, reversible dungarees, hand knitted woollies and of course their famous and incredibly cute hats; strawberry, Christmas pudding and now new dinosaur. They are a major stockist of Frugi, Kite and Toby Tiger, organic cotton, fairly traded clothes for babies and children and always have lots of appliqued tee shirts, dresses, hats and baby gifts and dinosaurs. If you haven’t been in, or if you are looking for a baby gift, a frock for a special occasion or comfy clothes for everyday then pop in to Up To Seven to find the perfect solution.

AVONVALE CARPETS 37 Kingsmead Street, Bath, BA1 2AA Tel: 01225 427057 Web: avonvalecarpets.co.uk Avonvale Carpets is a firm favourite in our annual Best Little Shops features, and we’re delighted to feature it again. It has served homeowners and businesses throughout the city of Bath and Wiltshire for over 40 years, providing an excellent choice of flooring, in-depth expertise and perfect fitting. An independent, family-run business, Avonvale Carpets employs its own professionally trained fitters and offers customers a great selection of quality flooring that’s truly second to none – woollens, naturals, stain resistant, vinyls and tailor made too. Pictured: Paul, Amy and Jim in the showroom.

SILVER BEAR 34B Wellsway, Bath, BA2 2AA Tel: 01225 422225 Web: silverbearjewelleryandgifts.com Owner Sheralie Robinson has been a sales agent for 13 years and has run a silver jewellery wholesale company (Smile Jewellery Ltd) for the past 15 years but decided to change her working life in order to connect more with customers. When this little shop on Bear Flat became available two and a half years ago she snapped it up and now enjoys meeting customers and having some interesting chats. Some have even become friends. Sheralie loves the community feel of the area and being able to help customers who come in looking for gifts but are not sure what to buy. As a result she receives lots of positive feedback. The shop stocks a great range of gifts for children and an ever growing men’s range, together with lots of gifts for women or the home. You will find something for every occasion and lots of customers just come in to treat themselves as there is so much to choose from. Get 10% off your purchase by presenting this feature.

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BEST LITTLE SHOPS

AVENDIA HOME 27 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BN Tel: 01225 571718 Web: avenidahome.com

MOSS OF BATH 45 St James Parade, Bath, BA1 1UQ Tel: 01225 331441 Web: mossofbath.co.uk Moss of Bath is an independent television and hi-fi retailer in the historic heart of Bath. The business specialises in providing bespoke home entertainment systems designed to meet individual needs, installed and serviced by a team of experienced and highly trained professional staff. Moss of Bath has gained an enviable reputation as specialists in modern home entertainment technology with a state of the art showroom, a hi-fi demonstration lounge and a Service Centre, all within the city centre store. Moss of Bath’s excellent reputation is built on outstanding service and repeat custom and the team is proud of the fact that so many people have been shopping with them for years. Established in the city for 53 years, the team continues to look forward to an exciting future as one of Bath’s most longstanding independent retailers.

Avenida Home is part gallery and part showroom, and provides a relaxed atmosphere in which to shop. It is located in the artisan quarter of Bath that is filled with independent craft and curio shops. The store has original Georgian windows set in Bath stone. Step through the wrought iron gate and the journey of discovery begins. The wall-towall display of exclusive home accessories includes wooden serving trays, unique placemats, designer dinnerware and luxury table linens. The designs are eclectic, contemporary, and quirky – the antithesis of massproduced homeware. It is a riot of colour, texture and pattern. It is certain to inspire your own home décor design. They select bright and beautiful items of unique homeware that will work every day or create an exquisitely set table for special occasions. The home décor pieces make amazing gifts, particularly if you are looking for unique and stylish wedding presents. This is a local family business and they offer a very personal service.

JODY CORY GOLDSMITHS

SHANNON

9 Abbey Church Yard, Bath, BA1 1LY Tel: 01225 470072 Web: jodycory.co.uk

68 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BD Tel: 01225 424222 Web: shannon-uk.com

Jody Cory Goldsmiths in Abbey Church Yard, is an independent jeweller and member of the National Association of Goldsmiths with over 25 years of experience. With Jody’s lovely creations all handmade in her workshop on the premises, what better way to mark an occasion than with a beautifully crafted and unique piece of jewellery? Friendly advice is available seven days a week from a team of highly skilled goldsmiths who create unique and extremely covetable silver, gold and platinum jewellery using personally selected rare gemstones. Old or broken treasures can be repaired or remodelled, to become exciting new pieces to be enjoyed all over again – a free design service is available. Jody also offers restringing, rhodium plating and valuations. On display too is work from other contemporary designers, providing a variety of interesting, superbly crafted jewellery from inexpensive silver pieces to diamond set engagement rings and both traditional and contemporary wedding rings to suit all tastes.

Original Scandinavian Design

Shannon occupies an old town house on Walcot Street and has possibly the best collection of real, iconic, Scandinavian designer furniture and lighting to be found outside London. And there’s nothing quite like the real thing; with an impressive line up of products from acclaimed designers such as Hans Wegner, Arne Jacobsen, and Fritz Hansen, the shop is jam-packed with furniture, fabrics, lighting and wonderful, colourful gifts from Marimekko, Klippan, Moomin, and Iittala. Owner Sue Shannon opened the shop in 2000 and has built up a superb reputation with architects and interior designers from all over the UK who rely on her knowledge to source and deliver classic pieces of timeless design and of the highest, authentic quality. Best buy this month: 2015 Limited edition summer Moomin mug Moment on the Shore.

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BEST LITTLE SHOPS

SPOTTY HERBERTS

THE BATH HAT COMPANY

5 Queen Street, Bath, BA1 1HE Tel: 01225 331834 Web: spottyherberts.com

9 – 11 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BN Tel: 01225 339009 Web: thebathhatcompany.com This lovely shop has ladies hats for all occasions. One of the specialist independent retailers which make shopping in the city such a unique and enjoyable experience. A–listed by Harper and Queens magazine, the shop is brimming with colour and stocks a huge selection of contemporary designs, along with a hint of vintage and a touch of the outrageous, all beautifully hand crafted. For the man about town, they have a fabulous collection of gentlemen's hats, colourful Trilby's, Fedora's, Donegal and Harris Tweed caps, Panama's and many more. All sizes are available.

LONDON CAMERA EXCHANGE

Times flies when your having fun and Spotty Herberts are celebrating winning two awards during the first year in their glorious Queen Street shop. Selling playful unisex clothing by UK brands such as Tootsa MacGinty, Bob & Blossom and Boys & Girls, they will be introducing five new collections for AW16. Where’s That Bear, Tapete, Panda & Ping and lovely new locals of Bath, Sleepy Doe and Bimble Shoes. Spotty Herberts stock beautifully made, thoughtful clothes that encourage kids to be kids. Also a whole heap of fun, games and new discoveries arriving all the time; simple and clever toys, treasures from around the world, locally made trinkets and keepsakes ideal for new baby gifts, treats and pocket money purchases.

13 Cheap Street, Bath BA1 1A Tel: 01225 462234 Web: lcegroup.co.uk London Camera Exchange is one of those Bath institutions where you know you will get personal and helpful service from the very knowledgable staff. The company, which has 28 branches nationwide, can trace its origins back to the original photographic studio in Guildford in the 1950’s. Each branch retains its individuality and the Bath store carries most popular camera models as well as a range of stock chosen by the manager and staff specifically to suit their clientele. There is an excellent part-exchange service so that customers can either trade up with the latest photographic equipment or choose from the selection of used items. Space is also devoted to other types of optical equipment such as binoculars and spotting scopes. Staff who really know their business – visit or contact them for the best deals in Bath.

NICHOLAS WYLDE

SILVERSHOON

12 Northumberland Place, Bath. Tel: 01225 462 826 Web: nicholaswylde.com

11 Upper Borough Walls, Bath BA1 1RG Tel: 01225 469735 Web: shoon.com

Award-winning Goldsmith Nicholas Wylde has been designing original, high quality jewellery since the early 80’s. A graduate of the prestigious School of Jewellery in Birmingham, Nicholas opened his Bath store in 1987 and has built up a superb reputation for designing outstanding pieces, from one off commissions to larger corporate orders, all hand made, with great passion, in the workshop on the premises. Following last year’s fire, the Nicholas Wylde showroom has been completely renovated and is a firm favourite along pretty Northumberland Place. For timeless designs, great service and a knowledgeable and helpful team, Nicholas Wylde is a great destination for anyone looking for a special piece of jewellery.

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Silvershoon offers a veritable feast of footwear delights.The Bath shop was Shoon’s very first shop, which opened more than 20 years ago (there are now ten branches across the south of England). It can be found on the corner of Upper Borough Walls and New Bond Street Place. Stepping into Silvershoon is akin to finding a hidden gem – stylish and comfortable footwear styles supported by friendly and knowledgeable staff. Silvershoon’s ranges are sourced from around the world – an eclectic mix of well-known and harder-to-find brands alongside some specially selected SHOON shoes. What they all have in common is the attention to detail, quality materials and, most importantly, comfort, which will leave you looking and feeling good. Mix in some well-chosen accessories such as handbags and scarves and you’ve a treat in store.

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BEST LITTLE SHOPS

THE DRESSING ROOM 7 Quiet Street, Bath BA1 2JU Tel: 01225 330563 Web: dressingroombath.co.uk Since opening in Bath in 1985, The Dressing Room has maintained its reputation as the ‘go to’ place for the finest in lingerie, beach and nightwear. While offering the most exquisite lingerie collections from the likes of Marie Jo, Aubade and Prima Donna, the shop also has a wide rande of very basic t-shirt bras and invisible briefs. Their beachwear collection features many brands, including Melissa Odabash, Maryan Mehlhorn, Gottex, Seafolly, Miraclesuit and Roidal amongst many others. The nightwear collection boasts Olivia Von Halle, Hanro Cottons, Laurence Tavernier robes, and silk gowns from Luna Di Seta and Marjolaine. With experienced and professional staff ready to help you, why not go along and have some fun?

SAVANNAH HOME

JOHN MOORE SPORTS 2 Argyle Street, Bath, BA2 4BA Tel: 01225 466341 Web: johnmooresports.co.uk Independent sports and school outfitter, family-run John Moore Sports was founded in 1912 and is well-known for its exceptional customer service. An exciting combination of heritage and cutting edge sports equipment, John Moore Sports stocks equipment and clothing for a whole host of sports. This month, they are particularly excited about their hockey, football, swimwear and Skechers ranges. Another highlight is their newly launched, free running club, JMS Run Crew – ideal for those who have already signed up for next year’s Bath Half Marathon, or simply for Parkrunners wanting to get a new PB. Their printing and embroidery service is ideal for school and teamwear, whilst also catering for corporate workwear and one-off personalised pieces. And for all of those rugby fans, why not head up the road to sister shop, JMS Rugby opposite the Guildhall? JMS Rugby is the onestop shop for players and fans, offering numerous club and international replica rugby shirts as well rugby boots, balls, protection and more.

25 Milsom Street, Bath BA1 1DG Tel: 01225 317272 Web: savannahhome.co.uk Savannah Home is a veritable treasure chest for those looking for beautiful and unusual items for the home. The shop, at the top of Milsom Street, was established to bring together the unique elements of interior design, cutting edge products and the beauty of antiques. Showing how the modern and antique can blend together to give an opulent, comfortable interior while displaying the individualism we all seek. Coupled with a very personalised service, this is a must see emporium.

WOODHOUSE & LAW 4 George's Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath Tel: 01225 428072 Web: woodhouseandlaw.co.uk Bathwick Hill is the home to Woodhouse and Law – a unique offering of a showroom and studio for both the home and the garden. As well as an extensive range of fabrics and wallpapers by well-known names such as Colefax & Fowler and Zoffany, the showroom has a hand-picked range of decorative lighting, furniture and accessories for the home. The garden showroom has a selection of items for the outdoors from hand-made Italian terracotta planters to timeless benches for your outdoor space. The in-house studio also has a design team on hand to offer friendly advice or discuss any interior or garden projects, from colour or planting schemes to the design and renovation of larger properties and gardens.

COOPERS ELECTRICAL SUPERSTORE 13 – 15 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BN Tel: 01225 311811 Coopers is a family owned business that has been trading since 1948. Back then founder Harry Cooper sold from a small shop in Mitcham South London. His son Paul joined the business in 1973 and now operates from a large showroom right in the centre of Bath. Back then Coopers sold (and repaired) lots of small appliances as well as TVs, radiograms (remember them?) washing machines and cookers. In the early days no one even dreamt of owning a dishwasher or tumble drier. Today Coopers specialises in white goods – kitchen appliances, built in and free standing, luxury and basic. Over the years Coopers has built a strong reputation – great products, fantastic friendly knowledgeable staff and highly competitive, fair prices. This is independent retailing at its best – values driven and customer focused – a real antidote to the soulless online shopping experience and for four years running, a regular entry in our best little shops of Bath list.

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BEST LITTLE SHOPS

THE SILVER SHOP

TINA ENGELL

25 Union Passage, Bath BA1 1RD Tel: 01225 464781 Web: thesilvershop.eu.com

29 Belvedere, Bath, BA1 5HR Tel: 01225 443334 Web: tinaengell.com

This little gem of a shop is one of Bath’s favourite gift and jewellery stores. A family-run and independent business, The Silver Shop has been selling beautiful jewellery and gifts since 1952. You’ll find it tucked away, yet close to the Abbey and Roman Baths. The shop is a firm favourite with visitors and residents alike and has a reputation for great customer service. With Bath’s largest selection of silver jewellery with prices ranging from £5 to £500, the staff work hard to source a wide selection of pieces with some ranges being handmade by local jewellers. With a small workshop on site The Silver Shop also offers a charm soldering service for customers. If you are looking for a gift for someone special or just to treat yourself, such as a clock or a candle, a christening gift or even a Charlie bear, it is certain to have something for you.

Is it a workshop or a shop? In Danish Goldsmith Tina Engell’s Scandinavian-style space you will find glass cabinets full of beautiful handmade jewellery, as you would expect. Perhaps more unusually, this is also Tina’s workshop, with a huge workbench illuminated by industrial lamps and covered in precious metals, stones, hammers, chisels and clamps. Tina designs and makes every piece by hand, using traditional methods. Although you can buy off the shelf, Tina often works to commission, creating unique pieces of jewellery to order. She can design and make a bespoke piece, or take inherited jewellery and refashion it. In this open-plan space the entire creative process is visible, and the results are bold and individual.

TOTAL FITNESS 3 Saracen Street, Bath, BA1 5BR Tel: 01225 444164 Web: totalfitnessbath.co.uk Total Fitness has a passion for cycling and with varied experiences within road biking, mountain biking and triathlon, can offer you the best advice possible on any aspect of cycling, running or swimming. Stocking Specialized bikes and lots of clothing, accessories, shoes, helmets, it has now introduced a new women’s specific area. The store has a large workshop offering repairs and servicing on any type of bike. If it operates on two wheels and under pedal power, Total Fitness will work on it for you.

A YARN STORY 128 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BG Tel: 01225 429239 Web: ayarnstory.co.uk A Yarn Story is a lovely wool boutique that just celebrated it’s first year on Walcot Street. Not your average yarn shop, the shelves are full of hand-dyed yarns, luxury fibres and the hard-to-find. You’ll find a beautifully curated selection of yarns from around the world as well as several proudly British brands. If the vibrant yarn colours aren’t enough to inspire you, you can browse the array books and magazines available or try on one of the many hand knit samples in the shop. They also offer a variety of classes for knitters, crocheters and spinners of all abilities. A must visit for yarn and fibre lovers.

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QUADRI 6 Milsom Place, Bath, BA1 1BZ Tel: 01225 329212 Web: quadri.co.uk Quadri is one of our favourite destinations for gift buying. It’s a well established luxury shop which specialises in strong design and high quality products for the discerning customer. In particular the focus is on fine precious jewellery, fashion jewellery, home ware and contemporary watches, with brands including Skagen, Jacob Jensen and Michel Herbelin. Find Quadri in Milsom Place, where your eye will be drawn to its stylish window displays, the ideal shop to look for someting extra special.

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BEST LITTLE SHOPS

TAKE CHARGE BIKES 1 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Road, Bath, BA2 3EH Tel: 01225 789568 Web: takechargebikes.co.uk No one would argue with the fact that switching your commute from using a car to riding a bike creates a host of benefits for both you and your surrounding environment. Governments warn the public about heart disease, high blood pressure and obesity; all of these can be avoided by getting on your bike. Exercise, even at moderate levels, helps to reduce stress and depression, as well as improving your mood and self-esteem. But could it be the idea of pedalling up all those steep hills around cities like Bath is putting people off switching to riding a bike to work? This is where the electric bike comes in. It provides all of the benefits of a regular bicycle, but with the added bonus of not arriving at work needing a shower as it helps to reduce the effort of pedalling uphill and into headwinds. You can still take exercise and lower your carbon footprint, all while saving money. Take Charge Bikes is an award-winning company with locations in Bath, Exeter, Woking and Cheltenham. They offer a wide selection of quality electric bikes from commuting bikes, tourers, leisure, folding, cargo bikes, tandems and even mountain bikes. They offer service and maintenance on all types of bikes as well as conversions in their fully equipped workshops. Anybody who is considering an electric bike is encouraged to pop along and try a demo bike. With 0% finance on offer and the cycle to work scheme, there are many options to help you purchase your electric bike affordably and comfortably. An electric bike works like a regular bicycle but with power assistance when you want it. Take charge of your life – you too can really benefit from an electric bike.

NIGEL DANDO 11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath, BA2 4AY Tel: 01225 464013 Web: nigeldando.co.uk Nigel Dando began his career after he gained a national goldsmiths diploma before going on to study gemmology at the Sir John Cass College of Art, Whitechapel. Today he sells an eclectic mic of new pre-owned and vintage jewellery, and has a particular interest in pieces from the 1920 – 1960 era. Together with ranges of contemporary silver jewellery at affordable prices, many of which are one-off pieces, the emphasis is on quality and style. Another facet of the business is the buying of gold and silver items in any form or condition. Nigel also sells investment precious metals at what he believes to be the most competitive prices in the city. Being one of the few provincial members of the London Diamond Bourse, Nigel is in daily contact with the market, which enables him to offer undeniable expertise and value. He also offers a customer repair and valuation service.

MALLORY 1 – 5 Bridge Street, Bath, BA2 4AP Tel: 01225 788800 Web: mallory-jewellers.com Mallory is renowned as Bath’s destination jeweller. Now in its fifth generation, Mallory is one of the country’s oldest family owned and run jewellers, established over 117 years ago in its original Bridge Street premises. Today Mallory boasts one of the largest in-house workshops in the UK, employing four master goldsmiths trained to the highest calibre, who create the most exquisite bespoke-made jewellery, as well as two fully accredited watchmakers and a technician, who are qualified to maintain the finest of timepieces. Inside the showroom you will find a majestic emporium of fine and contemporary jewellery, watches, and luxury gifts and accessories from the world’s most exclusive brands. The imposing frontage may look daunting, however Mallory’s offerings encompass something to suit all pockets, with international names such as Patek Philippe, Rolex, Cartier, Bulgari, Chopard, Montblanc, Tag Heuer, Longchamp, Longines, Breitling, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Georg Jensen, Fope and Mikimoto, as well as an extensive collection of jewellery designed by Mallory.

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CITY | SHOPPING

StyleTIME Mallory Jewellers in Bath offers its summer selection of the very latest watches for ladies and gents. Purchase for a special birthday, graduation gift or to add to your own collection – you’re sure to find something to catch your eye…

TAG Heuer Aquaracer Lady Following huge success using ceramic in the Formula 1 family TAG Heuer have introduced the same concept to the ladies’ Aquaracer. The Aquaracer range has always offered easy to wear style and practicality but the introduction of polished ceramic in full or mixed case options means the watch will retain its original sheen and colour even as the watch ages. Robust and waterresistant to 300 meters (it is an Aquaracer after all), this watch is a true sports model which combines elegance and charm. The extremely accurate quartz movement is housed in the 35mm case, with or without diamonds, making it a truly versatile timepiece. Model shown is priced, £1200.00

Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Rio 2016 Limited Edition In celebrating the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, Omega has launched the Seamaster Diver 300m. This 3,016 limited edition piece is the perfect way to combine a unique watch with everyday practicality. Since its introduction as the Bond watch in 1995, this model has evolved into one of the best sub £5000.00 diving watches available. Created with ceramic scratch resistant bezels, screw bracelets and the movements providing exceptional standards of mechanical accuracy through the edition of a Co-Axial escapement. This limited edition provides the opportunity for something a little different. The colours of the Olympic Rings are represented via the coloured numerals on the bezel and the wave pattern dial returns, this time inspired by the iconic mosaic of Copacabana’s sidewalk. As the official timekeeper of the games since 1932 a commemoration of the 2016 games was inevitable and with this subtle and inspired watch the message of experience and quality of the Omega brand are fully delivered. Model shown priced, £3520.00

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 31 If you want the purest, most straightforward example of what makes Rolex Rolex, then the Oyster Perpetual is surely it. This cool classic brings all of the elegance, attention to detail and robust quality you would expect from the brand, plus few of the superfluities that characterise models higher up the Rolex spectrum. Constructed from high grade 904L steel and with a water resistance of 100 meters, this model lends itself to all occasions. The introduction of new dial colours in blue, white and red grape (shown) in the 31mm size provides stylish alternatives. The Oyster Perpetual is a simply superb yet understated collection that offers incredible versatility and best of all at a fantastic price. Model shown in Red Grape, is priced £3300.00

Tudor North Flag Since its successful launch in to the Tudor range in 2015, the North Flag has surpassed all expectations in both quality and accuracy. Housing the MT5621 – Tudor’s first in house movement - it provides an approximate 70 hour power reserve and is shock and vibration resistant.The styling is not dissimilar to those of the early Tudor Ranger model dials, but the stainless steel casing provides a modern feel. Available on metal bracelet or canvas strap this is a fantastic all round watch and is exceptional value for money. Model shown priced, £2430.00

TAG Heuer Connected The new TAG Heuer Connected has catapulted the avant garde brand into the smartwatch market, launching a premium Android Wear Watch with one noticeable difference from its competitors – Swiss engineering! The new Connected combines classic TAG looks with Android Wear technology. Aesthetically it encompasses the quality features that you would expect from a traditional Carrera, with a 46mm high grade titanium case and a touch screen which is sapphire crystal. Developed in collaboration with Google and Intel, the watch features an Intel Atom processor and runs the Android Wear operating system. In terms of style and functionality, it can be personalised with multiple dial options and strap colours to compliment. Google voice command enables hands free texting as one of the many custom suite microapplications including a stopwatch/timer/alarm as standard. The other apps to be utilised are up to you. And if after two years you are tempted to switch to a nonsmartwatch version, TAG provide you with a trade in option to upgrade to a mechanical special edition Carrera for an additional £1100. Model shown, priced £1100.00

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CITY | READING

BOOKS ON NEW HOBBIES

Why not try a new interest this month? Venture to the great outdoors or learn a skill at home. Here’s our pick of some of the best guides on trying out new hobbies from independent bookshop Topping & Co

PLAYTIME

Let Your Kids Go Wild Outside by Fiona Bird, paperback, £12.99 In an age where technology has taken over our children’s attention, this book gives a new perspective on how to get the kids outdoors to enjoy nature. Fiona Bird’s brilliant book guides children through a whole host of different activities, from outdoor crafts, such as creating leaf art bunting and dream catchers, to reading animal tracks and learning the art of flower pressing. Children can also learn how to spot different birds and insects, and discover how to make a snail holiday village out of natural materials.

SUMMER AND SPICE

Summers Under The Tamarind Tree by Sumayya Usmani, hardback, £20 From traditional street food to celebration dinners; freshly baked breads to lightly spiced desserts, this cookbook takes readers through the diverse world of Pakistani food. Sumayya Usmani shares over 100 family recipes, drawing on the dishes that she grew up with. The wonderful photographs of each recipe will make your mouth begin to water, and the images of food stalls and everyday life in Pakistan gives readers a snapshot into the smells and tastes of what it’s really like to live there. This book provides simple guides to Pakistani cooking techniques, such as tenderising meat by boiling, and making your own tamarind sauce. Recipes include spicy crab, apple pakoras and Sindhi’s mutton biryani. Toppings will be holding a Tamarind Tree supper event on Friday 7 October at 8pm. Visit toppingbooks.co.uk to find out more.

THE GOOD LIFE

The New Homesteader by Bella and Nick Ivins, hardback, £19.99 Ten years ago, Bella and Nick Ivins made a life changing decision to leave the bustling city and relocate to Walnuts Farm to create a self-sufficient home farm. Learning on the job, the couple discovered how to plant a kitchen garden, keep livestock, preserve produce and maintain an orchard. Now they have created this book to inform readers on how they too can embrace the homesteader lifestyle. Learn how to keep bees and harvest honey, set up a hen house for poultry, and grow produce on different kinds of soil. Tap into your inner hunter-gatherer and discover how to forage for ingredients and learn how to make your own butter.

RIDE THE WAVES

How To Read Water by Tristan Gooley, hardback, £20 The bestselling author of The Walker’s Guide reveals his secrets to reading the rivers, steams and oceans around us. With over 700 clues, signs and patterns, readers can learn how to spot dangerous water in the pitch black, read the sea like a Viking, and forecast the weather from the waves. This is a useful guide for walkers, swimmers, anglers and sailors who are interested in learning more about the natural world. Diagrams and photographs also help to demonstrate Gooley’s instructions.

FLOWER POWER

Bunch Up! by Irene Cuzzaniti, hardback, £19.95 This is the perfect step-by-step guide for those wanting to learn how to make the perfect bouquet. Bunch Up! is separated into chapters according to the season, so readers can discover what are in bloom each month, and there are pages of guides on which flower is which, so you’ll know your poinsettia from your dahlias in no time. There’s a handy tool guide included, so you know what kind of shears, wire and floral tape may be needed for your creations. With clear photographs and directions, readers can get to grips making bunches of flowers and table decorations with ease. Learn how to make an asymmetrical bunch or a real flower crown, and discover the tricks of the trade for making your roses last longer.

CHANGING ROOMS

Creative Children’s Spaces by Ashlyn Gibson, hardback, £19.99 Creating a colourful and comfortable environment for children that is perfect for playing, doing homework and bedtime can be a diﬃcult task for parents. However, this book suggests ways to make children’s bedrooms and family space imaginative and exciting for little ones to grow up in. Using real life examples from homes across the world, from a modern London home to a rustic cabin at the edge of a forest in Poland, there is plenty to inspire readers to transform the space in their homes. Ashlyn Gibson

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guides readers through how to make the most of each room using clever storage ideas, and create bright environments with bold wallpaper patterns and artwork, unusual photo frames, and textured cushions. The emphasis is on personalising the space to suit each child, designing a place which is both productive and fun. The book also includes a list of online suppliers, Instagram profiles and bloggers readers should follow for more inspiration. Visit Topping & Co booksellers on The Paragon, Bath, BA1 5LS. Tel: 01225 428111 or visit: toppingbooks.co.uk.

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WHAT’S ON in August EVENTS ARE LISTED IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER FAMILY FILM: MISS MINOES Tuesday 2 August, 11.30am n The Edge, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath A charming family film which tells the tale of Miss Minoes, a cat who is transformed into a young woman and befriends Tibbe, a shy bumbling cub reporter for the local newspaper. Still recognised as a cat by the neighbourhood felines despite her new appearance, Miss Minoes organises them into a news-gathering service and helps Tibbe become a star reporter. Followed by free children’s activities and crafts, inspired by the film. Tickets: £8.75, £6.50 concessions. Tel: 01225 386777, visit: icia.org.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

The BBC Countryfile is at Blenheim this month

IN A GALAXY FAR, FAR AWAY Thursday 4 August, 1pm – 4pm n The American Museum, Claverton Manor, Bath The editor has a confession to make. She has never seen a Star Wars film. We’re hoping she’ll put on her cloak and pick up her light sabre to join the intergalactic fun at the American Museum where dressing up in character is very much encouraged as the very first Star Wars film, Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope is screened to coincide with this summer’s playful and nostalgic An American Toy Story exhibition. Fun for all ages.

Get ready for the Jane Austen Festival

Ali George at Chapel Arts

Rehearsals are underway for A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal Bath, with Phill Jupitus, left, as Nick Bottom

NATIONAL YOUTH JAZZ ORCHESTRA OF SCOTLAND Thursday 4 August 8pm n Wiltshire Music Centre, Ashley Road, Bradford on Avon Saxophonist Iain Bellamy and award-winning singer Liane Carrol join Scotland’s top youth jazz ensemble for a programme of big band classics. A great warm-up gig for the orchestra who play the BBC Proms the following night. Tickets: £14 / £8 concessions. Tel: 01225 860100 or visit: wiltshiremusic.org.uk. Also at the Wiltshire Music Centre this month THE WEST OF ENGLAND YOUTH ORCHESTRA Friday 26 August, 7.30pm, Saturday 27 August, 3pm The orchestra will be led by conductor Timothy Redmond and joined by violinist Matthew Trusler for a programme of Mahler, Rachmaninov and Prokofiev. Tickets: £15 / £13 family ticket, £9 under 18s and students. COUNTRYFILE LIVE Thursday 4 – Sunday 7 August, 9.30am – 6pm daily (to 5pm Sunday) n Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire The BBC brings its popular Countryfile show out on the road for the first time, giving fans the chance to meet the presenters, who incude Matt Baker , Ray Mears, Antia Rani and John Craven. There’ll be live arena shows, a Wildlife Zone, animal displays and baby animals, plus tree climbing and canoeing. Dogs on leads are welcome. Tickets: £24 in advance / £12 children. There is camping available at an extra cost. Visit: countryfilelive.com for more details. MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING Friday 5 and Saturday 6 August, 6.30pm n National Trust Dyrham Park, on the A46 north of Bath The Lord Chamberlain’s Men, a fine theatre company, mark the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, with an all-male production of his battle of the sexes comedy. The cast dress in Elizabethan costume and perform in the open air, giving an exciting and authentic feel to the experience. Tickets can be booked via: nationaltrust.org.uk.

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JON SPIERS Sunday 7 August, 5pm n Widcombe Social Club, Widcombe, Bath Legendary squeezebox player and one half of Spiers and Boden and one of the founders of the mighty Bellowhead is coming to Bath as part of Bath Folk Festival. A chance to see the melodeon maestro up close. Tickets via: bathfolkfestival.org.

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LAU Friday 12 August, 7.45pm n Komedia, Westgate Street, Bath Innovative, exciting folk band Lau – with support from Beth Porter and the Availables – will be bringing their own brand of modern folk to Bath. Tickets: £18. A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM n Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath Wednesday 3 – Saturday 20 August, times vary Starring comedian Phill Jupitus and directed by Olivier award winning director Laurence Boswell, this production will be among the hottest tickets in town. A fittingly spectacular show to mark Shakespeare’s 400th anniversary. Tickets, tel: 01225 448844. THE LIBERTINE Wednesday 31 August – Saturday 17 September, times vary Dominic Cooper plays the philandering 17th century Earl of Rochester for this West End preview. Written by award-winning Stephen Jeffreys and directed by Tony award winner Terry Johnson this wild romp through London in the 1670s looks very promising indeed. ALI GEORGE WITH SUPPORT, DEXTER SELBOY AND THE SHONKY TRIO Friday 5 August, 8pm n Chapel Arts Centre, Lower Borough Walls, Bath Songwriter Ali George is returning with a band of stellar musicians and a new CD of breath-taking material, Fallen Jewel – a long awaited album that he and his band will be performing live. He’ll be ably supported by Dexter Selboy and the Shonky Trio, one of the most unique and entertaining bands to grace the Bath and Bristol music scene. Dexter’s quick witted, darkly comic lyrics – delivered with a passionate baritone – make you want to dance and philosophise in the same instant. Tickets: £9 / £7 in advance. Bookings: chapelarts.org, tel:01225 461700. The Chapel Arts Café is open this evening, serving food and drink.

PHILIPPA GREGORY Thursday 11 August, 7.30pm for 8pm n St Swithin’s Church, The Paragon, Walcot Philippa Gregory – author of the best selling The White Queen and The Other Boleyn Girl – is one of Britain’s leading writers of historical fiction and is a consummate researcher. Her latest novel returns to the court of King Henry VIII. Three Sisters, Three Queens features Katherine of Aragon, and Henry’s sisters Margaret and Mary, chronicling the pivotal roles the three queens played in his kingdom. Early bird tickets: £8 (redeemable against the price of the book). Tickets from Topping & Co, tel: 01225 428111. PLANNING FOR PEACE: REDESIGNING BATH DURING THE FIRST WORLD WAR Until 27 November n The Museum of Bath Architecture, the Paragon, Bath A fascinating exhibition that shows paintings done in 1916 of ambitious plans for the centre of Bath, in which large public spaces would have been created. Free with entry to the museum. Entry £5.50, concessions £4.50 children £2.50. Visit: museumofbatharchitecture.org.uk. SUMMER SHOW: FEATURING YVONNE COOMBER Throughout August 10.30am – 5.30pm n Imagianation Gallery, Terrace Walk, Bath Bath’s newest art gallery is showing vibrant works for sale by south west artists from Cornwall to the Cotswolds. Inspiring new works by Yvonne Coomber (as seen on BBC’s Countryfile on 17 July) take over the Abbey gallery, while bold and exciting work by an eclectic range of artists fills the main gallery. Visit: imagianation.com. Continued page 38 THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

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WHAT’S WHAT’S || ON ON THE MAKERY OPEN DAY Sunday 14 August 10.30am – 4.30pm n 19 Union Passage, Bath The Makery is hosting an open day with a series of hands-on workshops suitable for all abilities. Choose between making a cactus pin cushion, some botanical jewellery or a geometric keyring. Places are £5 each. The shop selling craft and sewing items will also be open that day. Booking for the workshops is essential, tel: 01225 581888.

The Argyle Players present The Hound of the Baskervilles

LIVE ACTION DAY Wednesday 17 August n Haynes International Motor Museum, Sparkford, near Yeovil, Somerset A fun, adrenaline filled series of shows by the Vertical Trix Stunt Team. Performing exclusively for the first time at the museum, check out their unique mixture of stunt cars and bikes comprising of the Legend Hot Rod, a pair of Kawasaki ZX6 stunt bikes and especially for the younger spectators, Stunt Monkey. The stunt show will perform tricks involving stoppies, wheelies and burn-outs on the track area. £5 to view the show, plus normal admission. Tel: 01963 440804. Admission to the museum, with its 400 plus cars and bikes, is £13.95, £8.95 for children.

EDITOR’S PICK

Iain Bellamy at the Wiltshire Music Centre

Chain saw action at Treefest

Dominic Cooper is coming to the Theatre Royal Bath at the end of August

TREEFEST Saturday 27 to Monday 29 August, 10am – 5pm, music until 9pm on Saturday and Sunday n Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury, Gloucestershire After 22 years, 2016 will be the final ever Treefest – so this year’s last hurrah is going to be a celebration of this annual wood and tree themed event and all of the people who have made it so enjoyable. There will be more than100 exhibitors, food and live music, woodcarving, activities for families and the Timbersports show from Stihl, featuring some heavy duty chainsaw action by some expert lumberjacks. Tickets: £10 in advance, £15 on the gate, children go free. Tel: 0300 680 400.

HARVEST MOON FAMILY WORKSHOPS Wednesday 17 and Wednesday 24 August, 2pm – 4pm n The Museum of East Asian Art, Bennett Street, Bath Free drop-in summer workshops at the museum where families can learn to make Chinese lanterns and Vietnamese animal figures. Help make decorations for the annual Harvest Moon festival, to be held on Sunday 18 September. Also for the Museum of East Asian Art this month at the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institute in Queen Square, Bath LECTURE: THE EAST IS RED Friday 26 August, 7pm – 8pm Mary Ginsberg, previous curator of Chinese Collections at the British Museum will be speaking at BRLSI about the colour red in China’s political art, up to today’s more subtle presentation. In revolutionary China, red used the past to serve the present, as the political connotations of red entwined with ancient cultural symbolism: red has long stood for fire, happiness, good fortune, success and honour. Bold colours were an essential element of Chinese revolutionary folk art, socialist realism and, ubiquitously, in Cultural Revolution imagery. Please book by Friday 19 August, tickets: £6, Friends of MEAA and students, £3. Tel: 01225 464640 or visit: meaa.org.uk. THE RAILWAY CHILDREN Friday 24 and Saturday 25 August, 7pm n Avon Valley Railway, Bitton Railway Station, Bitton Chapterhouse Theatre brings E Nesbit’s classic tale to life with this open air production involving a real steam train as part of the action. Booking essential. Tickets: £22 adults, £16 children, tel: 01179 325538.

The East is Red lecture for the Museum of East Asian Art in Bath

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Lau: part of Bath Folk Festival Picture by David Angel

TEXTILE FAIR Saturday 20 August, 11am – 5pm n The American Museum, Claverton Manor, Bath This will be the third year for the textile exhibition at the museum, featuring vintage, antique and world textiles alongside yarns and makers’ supplies. Browse among the stalls set out in the museum’s beautiful grounds. Admission with gardens ticket. Continued Page 40

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WHAT’S | ON EZRA FURMAN Monday 22 August, 7.30pm n Komedia, Westgate Street, Bath Singer-songwriter Ezra Furman brings his unique brand of distinctly American poprock to Komedia, following a storming genre-fluid set at Glastonbury. Rasping vocals, infectious hooks and big sounds abound. He’s been described as of one of the most exciting acts around. Tickets: £12.50. Visit: komedia.co.uk/bath or tel: 0845 293 8480. Also at Komedia this month JEFFREY LEWIS AND LOS BOLTS Friday 26 August, 8pm Born and raised New York City dweller Jeffrey Lewis is a comic book artist and indie-rock musician, mixing captivating folk spiels with rawedged garage indie-rock and the occasional illustrated multi-media piece. Beginning with homemade cassettes in the late 90s, and moving on to touring the world with various bandmates, Jeffrey has recently released his seventh album, Jeffrey Lewis & Los Bolts: Manhattan. Tickets: £12. THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES Wednesday 24 – Saturday 27 August, 7.30pm n Tovey Hall theatre, Central United Reformed Church, Grove Street, Bath The Argyle Players present Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic thriller adapted and dramatised by Tim Kelly. Sherlock Holmes’ most spine chilling mystery finds Sir Henry heir to the vast Baskerville fortune, a legacy that comes with a family curse – death at the fangs of a horror that prowls Dartmoor. Only Holmes can stop the beast. While mysterious lights signal Baskerville Hall and the hound terrifies the countryside, suspicion falls on sinister servants, butterfly collectors, ladies in distress and escaped convicts. Who wrote the letter that summoned the hound? Is Sir Henry's romance with the lovely Kathy doomed? Is the supernatural at work? Tickets: £10 (includes programme and interval refreshments) from bathboxoffice.org.uk or tel: 01225 463362. UP LATE AT THE HOLBURNE Friday 26 August, 5 – 9pm n The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath The Holburne celebrates its 100th birthday this year and we’re invited to make a date to attend one of its regular Holburne Up Late sesssions. Explore the museum’s fine collection after hours, enjoy a drink and something to eat with friends and catch some live music too. FAMILY DAY ON THE FARM Monday 29 August from 10am n Newton Farm, Newton St Loe, Bath This will be the first time the farm has held a family open day and there’ll be entertainment for all ages, beginning with the café and farm shop which will be open from 10am. Enjoy tractor tours, agricultural/information stalls, for example grain marketing informing on what happens to the wheat, barley and maize after harvest, the life cycle of bees and how honey is made, Wildlife Trust, wool spinning, and the health benefits of quinoa, grown a mile or so down the road (see our Food Heroes feature, Page 60). Suppliers will also be doing food and drink tastings. There’ll be live music and a hog roast from noon. Tickets for the tractor tours are available in the shop. PLANNING AHEAD . . . WESTON FLOWER SHOW Saturday 3 September, 2.30pm n All Saints Centre, High Street, Weston Weston Garden Club hosts its annual family-friendly flower show, with fruit, vegetables and lots of cake. The show will be opened by BBC presenter Ali Vowles. HUG Thursday 8 – Saturday 10 September, 7pm, 8pm, 9pm n Ustinov Studio, Sawclose, Bath An immersive theatrical experience is offered, as blindfolded audience members are serenaded by a choir of singers who also hug them. Tickets: £5 / £4 concessions. Tel: 01225 448844.

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THE JANE AUSTEN FESTIVAL Friday 9 – Sunday 18 September n Various locations around Bath There’ll be dancing, dressing up in Regency costume, guided walks, talks and theatrical productions for the 2016 celebration of the life and times of great British writer Jane Austen, who lived for a while in Bath. There’ll be free readings from Sense and Sensibility in Bath Central Library daily at 2pm, from Sunday 11 September. There’s much much more besides, pick up a programme or visit: janeausten.co.uk. DAN WALSH AND JOHN DOWLING Friday 9 September, 8pm n Ring O Bells, Widcombe, Bath Two of the premier banjo players in the UK, John Dowling and Dan Walsh, pictured, have joined forces to create a duo. Built around virtuoso picking, creative harmonies and an impressive array of textures for two banjos (and some vocals from Dan) their show is sure to be eclectic and impressive. Dan Walsh was nominated for Musician Of The Year at this year’s BBC Folk Awards after a successful 2015 which saw the release of the critically acclaimed album Incidents and Accidents. John Dowling began playing the banjo at the age of 13. He won the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Awards at 18 years with his band The Black Cat Theory. At 21 he became the first person from outside the United States to win the Walnut Valley Banjo Contest in Kansas, the largest known banjo competition in America. He also he taught British stand up comedian Frank Skinner how to play the banjo. Tickets: £12 on door. WRITING COURSE Tuesday 20 September and three subsequent Tuesdays, 10am – 12.30pm n The American Museum, Claverton Manor, Bath Alex Wilson and Jude Higgins will use objects from the museum to inspire writers to find their writing voice and gain in confidence with their own style. Sessions are suitable for beginners or for writers who would welcome a boost, using fun and informal workshops. £85 for the whole course. Tel: 01225 820866 or email: workshops@americanmuseum.org.

BATH CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FESTIVAL Saturday 1 – Sunday 9 October n Various locations around Bath The tenth birthday of Britain’s best children’s literature festival features a steller line-up of brilliant and much-loved story tellers and illustrators, including astronaut Chris Hadfield, writer Michael Morpurgo, DJ turned author Simon Mayo and comedian Julian Clary. There’ll be fun story sessions for tinies, meet the author sessions, themed workshops for super fans of the likes of Dr Who and Star Wars and thought-provoking debates for young adults. Read our exclusive interview with historian Lucy Worsley, pictured, in our September issue. Pick up a programme or visit: bathfestivals.org.uk. ANGELOS AND BARRY Friday 18 November n Komedia, Westgate Street, Bath Angelos Epithemiou (BBC 2 Shooting Stars) and Barry From Watford (BBC Radio 2 Steve Wright) come to Bath on tour with the New Power Generation, in which the odd couple will be tackling global issues, including where they think corporations have got it right and wrong and the direction in which the financial sector is headed. But mostly they will be discussing the bookies, Londis, Crimewatch, whether you can claim benefits in space, whether or not Kim Jong-un cuts his own hair and how Ban Ki-moon once nearly lost The UN in a poker game. n THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

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BATH | ARCHIVE

ALL OUR WORKING DAYS Historian Catherine Pitt explores Bath’s industrial past as the Museum of Bath at Work prepares to display more from its archives

ath might be best known as a tourist city, built on the fame of the hotsprings; but there is more to this city than meets the eye. Behind the golden stone facades and away from the cobbled streets and picturesque squares, there is a hive of industry just scraping at the surface, keeping this city going; from launderettes to food and beverage distributors. Long gone are the tramlines that weaved through Edwardian Bath. The river is now filled with pleasure crafts and barges rather than working vessels. Yet glimpses of the city’s industrial past still peek through. We walk upon the Roman and medieval remnants of a working city. Recent excavations at Saw Close have uncovered the remains of an 18th century tobacco pipe factory, and although carefully recorded in the archaeological dig it will now, in the 21st century development be once again buried from view. The factories, gasworks and mills of yesteryear stand empty and are being swept aside or currently under development into offices, shops and housing. Earlier this year one more link to the city’s industrial heritage was lost, with the death of Gordon Sparrow, the last of the three Sparrow brothers, whose bright red cranes once dotted the skylines of building sites across the country. Today the industry in Bath may be more light, and a lot of it media and technological; but Bath isn’t just a city of pleasure, it’s a city with a backbone of heavy industry, engineering, manufacturing and craftsmanship. Once upon a time the areas surrounding the city’s river and canal, such as at Broad Quay and Widcombe, teemed with

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factories, machinery, and the sweat and toil of hundreds of men and women. In the Middle Ages Bath was renowned for its woollen and cloth industry – mills lined the riverside at Twerton and beyond. Broad Street was named for the yards of broad cloth that once stretched across its width from the looms of the weavers who worked there. From the 18th to 20th century Dr Oliver’s water biscuits were produced in the city centre and shipped all over the globe. Even the Georgian crescents and buildings we admire today would not have been built without Ralph Allen’s Stone Quarries nearby. The names of Cook, Carr, Fortt, Bayers, Stothert & Pitt, Harbutt, Pitman, Rotork, and Horstmann were once as familiar to people as Heinz, Coca Cola and Nike are today. Heading up Lansdown Road and turning off to Julian Road, you will find one of Bath’s hidden secrets. Located in what is the only extant 18th century real tennis court in the country, this former factory site now houses a series of fascinating collections all based on Bath’s industrial past, known as the Museum of Bath at Work. The museum owes its existence to the foresight of one man, Russell Frears. During the 1960s there were huge changes afoot in Bath, including the destruction of many rundown but historically significant buildings. Frears

was astutely aware that we were losing many of the old family businesses as time went on, especially as Bath drew further and further away from its industrial past. In 1969 Frears heard about the forthcoming closure of one of Bath’s oldest businesses – JB Bowler’s – a brass foundry, workshop and mineral water factory; and sought to buy the contents of the building before it was demolished to make way for the Avon Street car park. What was so extraordinary about JB Bowler’s was the fact that the contents had remained in situ pretty much as they had done since its doors had opened in 1872 by Jonathan Burdett Bowler (1834 – 1911). Bowler was a true entrepreneur and put his hand to pretty much anything. He was a gas fitter, brass founder, engineer, plumber, locksmith, bell hanger and a mineral and soda water manufacturer to boot. The Bowler family were not ones to throw anything away, and this meant the building was an industrial treasure trove of historical continuity when Frears came to the rescue. Frears carefully catalogued and photographed the rooms and contents and then packed it all up into storage. He set up the Bath Industrial Heritage Trust to preserve what he had found. However, it took him almost a decade to find a premise suitable for the

PRESERVED: main picture, the original bottle factory has been re-constructed in the museum, displayed along with some advertising from the Victorian era. Above, Mr JB Bowler, pictured in 1900 Below left, alphabet print blocks, which have inspired projects with local schools

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BATH | ARCHIVE

collection. Taking on the old Camden Works Factory on Julian Road the space was perfect to recreate the foundry, workshops, office, and bottling factory completely. It is these that today make up the bulk of the Museum’s exhibits. It is well worth a visit to see how an original Victorian business worked. Even the admissions desk is the old Bowler’s work counter, recycled from a Bath draper’s shop, still with brass yard rule attached. Since the foundation of the Bath Industrial Heritage Trust, and the opening of the Museum of Bath at Work in 1978, the collection has continued to expand and develop. Today the museum charts the industrial history of Bath from the Roman period to the present day. There is even a re-creation of a quarry face in the downstairs gallery, complete with original stone mining equipment. At the museum you can learn all about Bath innovators, and Bath businesses both big and small – the cranes of Stothert & Pitt and Swallow’s, the corsets of Bayers, the gasworks on Upper Bristol Road, and the craftsmanship of the cabinet makers; such as Keevil and Sons, that once dotted the city, producing not just furniture but that ubiquitous form of Georgian transport for the visitors to the spa – the sedan chair. You can even start up original 19th century mechanical equipment and there are regular demonstrations of other exhibits. Bath is a unique city, but it is also a city of many industrial and business firsts – Plasticine was invented here, shorthand was developed here by Isaac Pitman, the Anglepoise lamp was designed by George Carwardine in the city, and Bath even joined the automobile craze of the early 20th century with its very own car manufacturer, Horstmann. All of this is celebrated here and much much more. The upstairs mezzanine level is used not just for the temporary exhibits, but

as a community space that can be hired out and used for anything and everything, from concerts and book launches to youth projects and plays. Encouraging the young inventors of Bath and the future industrialists of the city, the museum is the host of the annual Bath Young Inventor of the Year competition (in collaboration with BRLSI), in the hunt for the future Bowlers’ of Bath. In fact industry and invention has yet to disappear totally, you just have to look a bit harder today. Tom Pellereau, the 2011 winner of The Apprentice on BBC One, had studied engineering at the University of Bath and went on to invent the curved nail file. Cross Manufacturing, designers of rotary valve engines and set up by Roland Cross in the 1930s, still continues in Bath to this day, as do the engineering firms of BuroHappold and BMT. So when you’re next taking a stroll around our beautiful city, just stop a while and consider that it wouldn’t exist without the hard work and toil of many of the small and large industries of the past, and present. Make your way to the Museum of Bath at Work and truly appreciate the wonders of Bath – they

INDUSTRIAL PAST: Above left, Mr and Mrs Shaw of the Bath citadel of the Salvation Army, and right, from the forthcoming Faces of Bath exhibition: the Hanstone sisters Left, baby Clutterbuck in the Faces of Bath exhibition Below, bottles from the original bottle factory in Bath, owned by Mr JB Bowler

aren’t just the in the architecture, Baths and parks; and reflect upon what the future might bring for Bath industry. The Museum of Bath at Work events: every Saturday afternoon, working demonstrations, Fridays at 1pm, the director’s ten minute talk on a mystery object from the museum, and opening on Thursday 8 September a historic photographic exhibition, Faces of Bath, some of which can be seen here for the first time. n

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THE CRICKETER’S PAINTER Lord’s cricketing museum is hosting a retrospective exhibition of work by Bath based artist Gerry Wright

n the same sporting museum where the Holy Grail of cricket, the Ashes Urn is proudly displayed, hangs a series of cricketing paintings by an artist who lived in Bath. It is a juxtaposition that artist Gerry Wright, a lifelong cricket fan, and player too, would have greatly enjoyed. Gerry Wright, who died last year after a long career as an artist, is being commemorated at Lord’s Museum, at the MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club) with a year-long exhibition of 36 of his paintings, which opened in June. Collectors of his work include celebrity cricket fans Mick Jagger, Charlie Watts Tim Rice and Michael Parkinson, and this show will undoubtably be enjoyed by the thousands who explore the museum on its daily tours. Some of them, too, will be able to enjoy Wright’s work as the pieces are all for sale. Gerry’s widow Sylvia has stayed on in the Bath townhouse that was their family home for almost 30 years. She showed me the attic studio where her husband used to work: “He painted every single day,” she says. “He had enormous energy. And, of course he loved what he was doing.” After his sudden death Sylvia found herself custodian of dozens of Gerry’s paintings. These include very personal works, such as the portraits of her made on holiday in Greece and landscapes of

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their beloved Spanish village home, but also many cricket themed pieces. These include portraits of great cricketers past and present, from WG Grace and Viv Richards to Chris Broad and Shane Warne. There are also works depicting langorous afternoons on village pitches where amateur players battle it out against a pastoral landscape, the artist’s eye as absorbed by the detail of trees, grass and skies as he is by the field of play. In addition there are action shots of cricketers in mid-shot, along with a series of close detailed studies of hands gripping a cricket ball – studies made with the knowledge of someone who has bowled many a shot himself.

Sylvia was talking to a friend, also a collector of her husband’s cricketing paintings, who had initially suggested a posthumous show in a rural Oxfordshire gallery. But then it came to the attention of Adam Chadwick, curator at Lord’s Museum, who came down to Bath and spent hours photographing the paintings. Fired with enthusiasm he invited Wright’s widow to allow Lord’s to show his work and took 60 pieces with him to London. Bathonians may well be familiar with Wright’s work. His work is full of colour and detail and vibrant with life. In 2000 he had a solo show at the Victoria Art Gallery, Summer in the City, featuring scenes painted around his adopted city of Bath. It has also been shown at galleries in London, Bristol and Bath. He and Sylvia came to Bath after 18 years in a former country inn near Devizes. The pair had originally met in London when Sylvia was a teenager. They had mingled with the art crowd in Soho, with Peter Blake and John Hoyland among their friends. In the late 60s the Wrights decided their two daughters would enjoy growing up in a more rural environment. They bought the delapidated 17-room former pub and Gerry set about renovating it while Sylvia pursued a successful career in education. As more of their artist friends – including Peter Blake – moved

GOLDEN AFTERNOONS: main picture, Cricket Match, Cockingford, Devon by Gerry Wright Inset, Horster bowler of the period Opposite page, The Gentlemen 1894 (with WG Grace in the middle) and Cricket, Lovely Cricket, which was chosen as the publicity shot for Wright’s exhibition at Lord’s Museum at Marylebone Cricket Club London

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CITY | ARTISTS

south west from London, a social circle soon grew up and Sylvia recalls happy times. In the mid 1980s Gerry harnessed his love of cricket to a labour of love. He took old black and white photographs from the Golden Age of cricket, in the years 1890 until the start of the First World War, and created vivid colour paintings from them – right down to capturing the colours of the club blazers. He teamed up with David Frith, editor of Wisden’s and cricket historian, to produce a fine coffee table book, Cricket’s Golden Summer. These works are particularly poignant when we view

the men’s steady gaze and then read about their fate during the ensuing war to end all wars. David Frith wrote at the time: “Gerry Wright evokes the spirit of the Golden Age in his own idiosyncratic style of painting, combining the two very English themes of cricket and landscape, and brings to life the leading players of that long-lost game.” Copies of that book will also be on sale at Lord’s during the exhibition. To find out more about Gerry Wright visit: gerrywright.com, or to buy his work email: sylviawright3188@yahoo.co.uk. n

Hans J. Wegner Elbow Chair, designed 1956. Dining Table, designed 1960

S annon F U R N I T U R E LT D

Contemporary Nordic furniture from Carl Hansen and Son, Fritz Hansen and Swedese. Our homewares include Marimekko, Iittala, Rorstrand, with lots of Moomin mugs, fabric and throws from Denmark, Sweden and Finland.

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ART | EXHIBITIONS

THE COLOUR OF SUMMER Take your pick from more than a dozen exhibitions taking place in Bath’s galleries during August

NICK CUDWORTH GALLERY

August Stile by Nick Cudworth

London St, top of Walcot Street, Bath. Closed on Mondays Tel: 01225 445221 Visit: nickcudworth.com SUMMER SHOW Until the end of August The summer exhibition covers a wide variety of paintings and prints of originals which reflect Nick’s interests and inspirations. It includes a signed giclee print of Wast Water in the Lake District. Other landscapes on view cover Bath city and the surrounding countryside, also the Cotswolds. A selection of Nick’s musical heroes are represented with images of Chuck Berry, Mahler, Eric Satie and Elmore James.

GALLERY NINE 9b Margarets Buildings, Bath Tel: 01225 319197 Visit: gallerynine.co.uk Open: Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5.30pm Rush Bank and Mitton by Anna Lambert

SUMMER EXHIBITION Until Wednesday 31 August The summer exhibition features British artists whose work has been influenced by their immediate surroundings. Christian Ryan, who is based in Wales, makes glass pieces that combine his love of painting, graphics, craft and architecture. Anna Lambert has developed her hand-built forms to reflect a connection with her locality in West Yorkshire and to the fragile, constantly changing environment. Robert Race’s kinetic sculptures and automata are found in many collections including the Museum of Childhood, the V&A and the Arts Council Craft Collection. Featured jewellers are Tanja Ufer and Samuel Waterhouse. Tanja won a setting up grant from the British Crafts Council, which enabled her to establish her studio in Brighton. Samuel is a self taught jeweller from Northumberland who creates contemporary jewellery with original inspiration from antiquity. The exhibition also features linoprints by Paul Cleden and Andrew Pavitt.

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EMMA ROSE

VICTORIA ART GALLERY

Upstairs at 78 Walcot Street, Bath Mon – Sat, 10am – 5pm Tel: 07885235915 / 01225 424 424 Visit: emmaroseartworks.com

By Pulteney Bridge Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm, Sunday, 1.30pm – 5pm, closed Monday

PROMISED LAND During August August brings us heady heat, foreign climes and homeland journeys. This month’s exhibition by Emma Rose has original art, limited edition prints and canvas prints that seek to capture the effects of time on the earth and brings together poetic meditations on the interplay between ground and sky – a landscape of life captured in acrylics and Indian inks.

The Promised Land by Emma Rose

A ROOM OF THEIR OWN: LOST BLOOMSBURY INTERIORS 1914 – 1930 Until 4 September Curator David Herbert reunites ceramics, furniture, textiles and paintings by Roger Fry, Vanessa Bell, Duncan Grant and others that have not been seen together for over 50 years. In 1914 the Omega Workshops brought employment by making and supplying handmade, brightly coloured items for the home, and soon the Bloomsbury Group’s work won legions of enthusiasts. Sadly, little of the interiors remain as much was destroyed, by accident or by bombing. This exhibition recreates several of those lost rooms. Lunchtime exhibition tours, every Thursday to 11 August, 12.30pm. Free to Discovery Card and ticket holders.

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nick cudworth gallery

Cleveland Pier - Sunset. Signed Giclee Print from the original oil painting

SUMMER SHOW 1 July – 31 August

A wide variety of paintings and prints by Nick that represent his interests and inspirations including landscapes and music.

5 London Street (top end of Walcot Street), Bath BA1 5BU tel 01225 445221 / 07968 047639 gallery@nickcudworth.com www.nickcudworth.com

Rock Pool by Michael Salt. Oil on canvas 24”x24”, £1,600.

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ART | EXHIBITIONS

ART AT THE HEART OF THE RUH Main corridor gallery, Royal United Hospital, Bath Open: Monday to Sunday, 8am – 8pm daily BATH SCHOOLS EXHIBITION Thursday 8 July – 13 October Art and photography by students at Beechen Cliff and Ralph Allen schools who have worked together as part of the Bath Educational Trust. Also on show is an exhibition by Bath Artists’ Studios, to mark the studios’ 20th anniversary.

DAVID SIMON CONTEMPORARY 3 – 4 Bartlett Street, Bath Tel: 01225 460189 Visit: davidsimoncontemporary.com Open: Mon – Sat, 10am – 6pm, Sunday afternoons SUMMER EXHIBITION Friday 5 – Saturday 27 August A rolling exhibition of invited painters throughout August, featuring the latest work by Victoria Gamberoni, Diana Matthews FRCA, Nick Tidnam RBA and introducing for the first time at the gallery the established painter David Brayne RWS. This exhibition features a wonderful variety of different approaches, exploring semi-figurative styles. With each of these artists’ paintings is a real feeling of the enjoyment of handling paint and an understanding of colour through subjects of still-life and landscape.

Artwork by Ellie Hawking on display at the RUH

THE MUSEUM OF EAST ASIAN ART 12 Bennett Street, Bath Visit: meaa.org.uk Open: Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday noon – 5pm RED: CULTURE, HISTORY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP Throughout August The museum has re-opened after extensive refurbishment. This exhibition explores the potency of the colour red in Chinese art.

Still Life with Geraniums by Victoria Gamberoni

The Moose by George Stubbs © The Hunterian, University of Glasgow, 2016

HOLBURNE MUSEUM Great Pulteney Street, Bath Tel: 01225 388569 Open: Daily, 10am – 5pm (11am Sundays) STUBBS AND THE WILD Until 2 October George Stubbs is perhaps best known for his paintings of horses, people and dogs, but this exhibition explores his fascination with wild animals. Stubbs reflected the interest at the time for animals from far-flung corners of the world. Many exotic animals were arriving in the country for private collections and Stubbs was invited to study and paint them. This exhibition is part of the 100th anniversary events at the Holburne, and while entry to the main galleries is free, there is a charge to see the Stubbs works. Admission is £10. There’s a two for one ticket deal on Tuesdays.

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BLUESTONE GALLERY Old Swan Yard, Devizes, Wiltshire Tel: 01380 729589 Visit: bluestonegallery.com Open 10am – 5pm, Monday to Friday, 9.30am – 5.30pm Saturday FABIAN ROSE Throughout August Since it was invented in 1816 by Scottish scientist Sir David Brewster the kaleidoscope has become a much loved childhood toy, enjoyed by generations of children. Mass production drove the quality down, but recently certain creative people are reclaiming the kaleidoscope as a work of art. One such man is Fabian Rose. His main tool is the soldering iron which he uses to apply intricate and varying patterns to the metal which is then plated in silver. This he combines with sections of Tiffany glass for the main body, and then creates wheels filled with individual panels of glass which are spun at the end of the kaleidoscope. The result looks almost like a medieval machine, works brilliantly and is a beautiful, collectable object in its own right. Prices start at around £100.

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ART | EXHIBITIONS

44AD ART SPACE

WALCOT CHAPEL

4 Abbey Street, Bath Open 10am – 6pm (Sunday 11am – 4pm)

Walcot Chapel, Walcot Gate, Bath Open: Tuesday 16 – Sunday 21 August, 10am – 6pm

ROD CRAIG: A BRUSH WITH COLOUR 29 August – 4 September

AUSTERITY Tuesday 16 – Sunday 21 August Eleven local artists were invited to respond to the idea of ‘austerity’ and have created new work for this exhibition of painting, printmaking and photography. To explore this theme, the artists took inspiration from many sources – political, economic, historical, spiritual and topographical. Subject matter ranges from landscape to literature, abstract to figurative, Orkney to Cuba. Participating artists include Paul Brokensha, Marlis Garner, Ann Hines, Sarah Targett and Mark Thomas. All work is offered for sale.

Rod Craig trained at West of England College of Art, before setting up a graphic design company which he ran for more than 30 years. Rod now concentrates fully on his painting, watercolour being his preferred medium as it is perfect for creating the fluid and energetic landscapes that have become his trademark. In the few short years since he has been painting full time, Rod has exhibited widely in the UK and had a solo show in New York. This year he has made a new home in Bath, now dividing his time between here and his studio in Oxfordshire. This is his first exhibition in Bath, which marks a fitting return to the familiar streets of his formative years.

Summer in the City by Rod Craig

BATH CONTEMPORARY 35 Gay Street, Bath Email: gallery@bathcontemporary.com Visit: bathcontemporary.com Tel: 01225 461230 Open: 10am – 5pm, Mon – Sat KERRY HARDING Monday 1 – Saturday 13 August Kerry Harding’s soft, surreal environments, inspired by the weathered Cornish landscape, contain a poetic resonance informed by an experimental curiosity of paint and process. Layering subtle texture, Harding creates atmospheric spaces of contemplation.

Lady in the Flower Print Dress by Iryna Yermolova

ONE TWO FIVE GALLERY 4 Abbey Green, Bath Open: Daily, 11am – 5pm, or by appointment. Email: carole@carolewaller.co.uk Tel: 07803 033 629

IRYNA YERMOLOVA Monday 15 – Saturday 27 August Presenting new work from the ever-popular Iryna Yermolova, including elegant figurative studies alongside vibrant still lifes. Yermolova paints with a bold yet sensitive touch, expressing her subjects through a confident use of line. An intriguing play of grounds compliments a striking use of colour often with dramatic lighting.

ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH Broad Street, Bath Open: Monday 22 – Saturday 27 August, 10am – 4pm DON’T LOSE HEART Monday 22 – Saturday 27 August In response to the refugee crisis, artist Penny Faux has taken photographs of people from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees website (with permission of UNHCR) and reinterpreted them through painting. Visitors will be invited to ‘have a heart’ – a crocheted heart, that is – and give a donation in return. The twist is that the heart’s thread will be attached to the start of the exhibition. It’s anybody’s guess whether the heart’s new owner will make it through to see all the paintings with their heart still intact or will it completely unravel? All proceeds go to UNHCR and The Red Cross.

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CELEBRATE Sunday 14 – Sunday 21 August An exhibition to celebrate the first anniversary of One Two Five Gallery at 4 Abbey Green in Bath. Showcasing Carole Waller’s collection about Bath – wearable art clothing, full of images of the city, its stones, archaeology and its connection to water. Drink from Gary Wood’s stoneware cups and eat from the new collection of bowls for food – orders being taken for sets for Christmas. Celebrate the anniversary of the opening and get in the party mood on Sunday 14 August. There will be a sale on selected pieces until Sunday 21 August.

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WE CAME, WE SAW, WE TASTED A new walking tour of Bath provides a thoroughly immersive experience, discovers Georgette McCready

ometimes it takes a newcomer to make you look at your home in a fresh way. So, rather than be offended at the idea of an American offering a walking guide tour of Bath, instead I decided to go with the flow and see what Savouring Bath, the latest experience in town, had to offer. It’s easy to be cynical and know-it-all when you’ve worked in Bath for three decades but, from the outset our friendly guide Californian Jennifer Dugdale was impressing us with her knowledge of our World Heritage City. Not only is she well versed in the history of the city but she’s keen to make us look at Bath in a new and favourable light – as a city that’s a leader in the UK’s foodie revolution. In the space of a three hour walking tour (there’s some sitting down too, don’t worry) she’s given us a Food Heroes tour to engross even the most jaded old writer. Jennifer is married to an Englishman, so she’s well versed in our eccentric ways and, with a background in luxury tourism, she ran until recently a successful foodie tour guide business in Aix-en-Provence, she knows how to keep a group of disparate people entertained. What made this more enjoyable than many other guided tours was the constant supply of delicious food and drink consumed along with the insights, as we moved from place to place. Some of the sights and tastes along the way – such as Richard Bertinet’s fabulous real bread and the metallic 52 TheBATHMagazine

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healing waters of the city spa – may be familiar to you. Others may not. During one of our many drop-ins we called in to Comins tea merchants and café in Monmouth Street where Rob Comins gave us a fascinating talk about the history of tea before inviting us to a tasting of delicious green tea, followed by hot freshly made gyoza (Chinese savoury dumplings) which teamed well with refreshing, clean tasting Rainbow Darjeeling. I for one had no idea that this peaceful eaterie was such a great destination for loose leaf tea, which Rob imports directly from the growers. The use of Skype means food and drink buyers in Bath – including Maxwell Colonna from Colonna and Smalls coffee house – can speak directly to farmers and growers all over the world and order the ingredients they require without the need of a third party. The food revolution continues down in Kingsmead Square where we squeeze into the tucked away takeaway Chai Walla run by ex Beechen Cliff School educated Niraj, who cooks up the most

amazing authentic Indian street food in this tiny space. The samosas are piping hot, crispy and spicy too. Delicious food on the move. Jennifer has clearly done her homework and interviewed all the producers on her route. She tells us about Duncan Glendinning, founder of the Thoughtful Bread Company, who not only works through the night to bake fresh bread for his customers, but also operates a bartering system, with people bringing in gooseberries, rhubarb and other fresh ingredients which he then uses in his patisserie. That’s not something you’d find out just from enjoying one of his tasty Bath buns, with their orange zesty tang, over a coffee. As an everyday customer one rarely gets the chance to personally grill the person in the café or shop about how the food is made, or where it comes from. Thanks to Jennifer teeing the experts up before our visit, we were able to expand our limited knowledge about the pedigree of Cheddar cheese, from Frenchman Philippe at Paxton and Whitfield cheese shop. And how lovely to meet a Frenchman happy to wax lyrical about British cheese. Jennifer says: “There is a really exciting food revolution going on in this city. People from outside are discovering some of the new and innovative things that are going on here. Take the Canary Gin Bar, for instance, that’s a cool bar serving that most fashionable of drinks, gin. Or visit the Bath Brewhouse where there’s a brewery in the pub. Meet the people who make the beer, find out how

SENSORY EXPERIENCE: main picture, freshly made Bath buns at the Thoughtful Bread Company, Barton Street Inset, James Hunter of soon-to-be rebranded Hunter & Sons café and bar in Milsom Place Opposite page: Chai Walla, tucked away in tiny premises overlooking Kingsmead Square, Jennifer of Savouring Bath with her fact pack, beer and cheese tasting at the newly branded Hunter and Sons, and Philippe of Paxton and Whitfield in John Street

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FOOD | TOURISM

it’s made, then enjoy a glass afterwards. And there are so many people choosing Bath as a great place to run their food or drink business, because of its reputation.” Our walk began outside Bath Abbey with a chat about Georgian Bath and how the 18th century saw a revolution in food in this country. It ended three hours later at Colonna and Hunter in Milsom Place – soon to be rebranded Hunter and Sons, where we enjoyed a craft beer and cheese tasting mini workshop in the good company of James Hunter. He talked us through the pairings of craft beers and cheese samples provided for us by Paxton and Whitfield. This is an inter-active and immersive lesson in which local cheeses go best with which

beer. James offers similar tasting workshops for groups of friends or colleagues. After three hours together the half dozen people on Jennifer’s Food Heroes tour bonded over a shared interest in food, drink and Bath. Jennifer also runs a Saturday morning guided tour in which she leads her party round the eateries of Kingsmead Square and down to meet and eat at the farmers’ market in Green Park Station. There’s no need to feel shy or awkward as Jennifer’s easy way with people puts them at their ease and brings consumers closer to the people who actually grow and make our food. Savouring Bath is also working on a tour that will take in some of the city’s historic pubs, offering people the chance to try some authentic

Bath dishes, such as Bath chaps. Tours typically consist of around ten people, cost £35 a head (to include all the food and drink tasting) and last around three hours. They’re suitable for all ages over ten, but are probably not suitable for people unable to walk very far, by the nature of the routes taken through the streets. While the tours will undoubtedly appeal to visitors to Bath, I think Savouring Bath would also interest locals keen to remind themselves that what is so great about our city isn’t just the architecture, but the people who live, work and play here. To find out more email Jennifer: hello@savouringbath.com or visit: savouringbath.com. n

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FOOD | NEWS

TITBITS

■ The Three Gables restaurant in Bradford on Avon, pictured, has added a bit of fizz to its already sparkling dining experience, by offering diners its Champagne of the Month. Vito, restaurant manager said: “We’re showcasing a new champagne each month to show the incredible range and breadth available. I’m looking forward to being able to talk to customers about the differences and qualities of each one as well as which dishes go best.” ■ The Tasting Room in Green Street, Bath has been voted among the top 50 independent drinks merchants in the UK in this year’s national competition run by Harpers Wine & Spirit and Off Licence News. Director, Will Baber, said: “It’s always great to receive positive feedback, but it is especially pleasing to get recognition of your efforts from the industry too." ■ The newly formed Kingsmead Square Traders Association is holding a mini market on Saturday 13 August from 10am – 5pm. Stalls will be selling arts and crafts, artisan chocolate and retro clothing and The Dark Horse will run a bar,while Sarah and Alice from The Best of British deli in Broad Street will be running a barbeque. ■ Hospitality Action, the charity offering a lifeline to people from the hospitality industry, is holding a Polo Day at the Beaufort Polo Club in Gloucestershire on Sunday 11 September. Six chefs with six Michelin-stars between them – including Sam Moody of The Bath Priory – will contribute towards a threecourse meal. They will be assisted by a team from Bath College, The Abbey Hotel and The Pig near Bath. The event will begin with a Taittinger Champagne reception. Guests will later watch the final of the Sidebottom Cup prior to afternoon cream tea prepared by Richard Bertinet. Visit: hospitalityaction.org.uk or email: fundraising@hospitalityaction.org.uk.

CHEFS WORK ALONGSIDE STUDENTS

Students from Bath College catering courses rubbed shoulders with professional chefs from some of the top kitchens in Bath and the Cotswolds for an industry gathering of The Chefs’ Forum held at Homewood Park. The event began with a canapé and Bottle Green cocktail reception, with food created by Homewood Park head chef Simon Addison, working alongside students from Bath College, Gloucestershire College and HIT Training. Canapés included black pudding Scotch eggs, sesame prawn toast, truffle gougeres, salmon tartare on tapioca crisp and mini shepherd’s pies. Bridget Halford, head of hospitality at Bath College said: “The Chefs’ Forum is a fantastic platform for our

HANDS-ON: students working with head chef at Homewood Park, Simon Addison students to network with local employers and secure work experience. One of my students, Connor Gale has been offered a full time job at Lucknam Park as a result of The Chefs’ Forum holding a similar event there

last September – this just shows how successful it is as an initiative.” Simon said: “The students were all fantastic. The passion and talent that they showed was brilliant. It was great to invite the colleges to Homewood Park today as we would like to encourage more young people to join our team. We have put plans in place to work more closely with the colleges here today” Simon demonstrated some dishes from his menu before guests took park in a spot of Segway racing around the grounds. The event finished with afternoon tea, accompanied by teas from Comins Tea House in Bath with Comins’ owner, Michelle Comins selecting Darjeeling, white and green tea to accompany the sweet treats.

ANYONE FOR SCHOOL DINNERS?

A lot of us have a soft spot for some of the dishes we ate at school, whether it was warm and comforting sponge with custard or a hearty steak and kidney pudding. Bailbrook House Hotel at Batheaston is tapping into that nostalgia by offering a school dinners inspired tasting menu on Saturday 24 September. The chefs are preparing a professional and delicious take on some old favourites, including Dinner Lady Broth, Spangle Boiled Sweet Sorbet and Jammie Dodger inspired petits fours. The Back to School tasting menu, with matching wines, is £50 per person. To book, tel: 01225 855100. The hotel runs a barbecue menu every Friday evening from 5.30pm – 8pm, giving people the chance to enjoy the splendour of the gardens,

with their views across to Bath. Choose from an array that includes sausages, burgers, cajun chicken, jacket potatoes, salads, vegetarian dishes and mini-desserts for £20 a head, or £25 to include a glass of wine or a pint of beer.

HAND SELECTED TEAS WIN ACCOLADE

Bath tea importer Deepali Gaskell has won accolades in the Taste of the West awards. Heritage Teas’ First Flush Organic Darjeeling tea won Gold in 2016, while its Second Flush Organic Darjeeling won

Silver last year. Deepali, who has made a study of tea and lives in Bath, sells Organic Darjeeling Tea which she selects from gardens on the higher slopes of the tea growing region of Darjeeling.

Deepali sells her tea under the brand Deepali’s Terroir. Stockists include Bath Tourism Information Centre, the Jane Austen Centre, Lucknam Park Hotel and the Bridge Tea Rooms in Bradford on Avon.

Featured in Sunday Times best places to eat for under £20

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A Cut Above... Indian Dining

Try our new lite lunch menu Longmead Gospel Hall Lower Bristol Road Bath BA2 3EB Tel: 01225 446656 info@themintroom.co.uk

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RESTAURANT | REVIEW

SEARCYS @THE PUMP ROOM The Pump Room, Bath BA1 1LZ Tel: 01225 44477

R E V I EW

A SENSE OF OCCASION

lsewhere in this issue we sing the praises of half a dozen of Bath’s best long-standing restaurants, but one venue must stand out, because of its historic and cultural significence, which surely deserves a place on our culinary bucket lists. The Pump Room dining room, with its dramatic high ceiling, huge windows and magificent, priceless glittering chandelier has remained elegantly, pristinely unchanged ever since I can remember. The crisp white tablecloths, the polished cutlery, the smart attentive waiting staff and the statue of Beau Nash presiding over all from his alcove, help to make this a setting to rival any historic tearoom in Prague or sophisticated salon in Paris. The Pump Room experience can be enjoyed for the price of a coffee. You can come in off the street, via those rumbling revolving doors, and receive the same courteous service from inhouse caterers Searcys’ staff as if you were visiting royalty. And for two months every summer tourists and locals can enjoy dinner in the evenings, as the neighbouring Roman Baths are lit by torchlight and open, until the end of August, until 10pm. We booked an early evening package to the Pump Room and Roman Baths, beginning with supper and ending with the chance to play being tourists in our home city by exploring the treasures from two centuries ago. I’ve long had my eye on that gilded head of Minerva from the original Roman temple, that would look very fine on my mantelpiece at home. Back in that dining room we were welcomed by maitre d’ Luke. His genial, professional manner has been honed after 18 years working at The Pump Room – many of the Searcys team 56 TheBATHMagazine

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have worked here for years, which reflects well on the company. Also long-serving is Jools the resident pianist, who takes the grand piano through its paces via some classics, such as Land of Hope and Glory, through some good old Beatles numbers, even some Star Wars and, delighting our table in particular, a fine rendition of the Game of Thrones theme tune. Do we clap, we wondered, looking round at our fellow diners? The answer is yes, please do clap. If you appreciate the efforts of this professional musician, then show your pleasure. Diners can choose from a set menu of £17.50 for two courses, or £22.50 for three, or go for a la carte choices. The menu is modern British, acknowledging its seasonal and regional ingredients. Starters range from £6.75 to £8.95 and main courses are £13 to £23.50. My overture was salmon, served three ways; as a light mousse, a classic smoked and some gin marinated, all served with French toast, while John’s starter was a piquant, warm crab bisque risotto topped with crispy shallots and a large crispy deep fried prawn. Sit back and enjoy the ambience, while you eat. Consider the diners who have sat within these walls over the years since the Pump Room was built in the late 18th century and, as you gaze out of the windows over the waters of the old King’s Bath, imagine the centuries of people who’ve visited this spot. Sometimes it’s good to look at our World Heritage city (one of only three in Europe – can you name the other two?*) as first-time visitors might see it. While we’re on the subject of this being a significant historic place – come on, people, couldn’t we make a bit more effort in our

appearance to dine here? I put on a frock in deference and John respectfully wore a shirt with a collar. But the guy on the next table was positively scruffy in shorts and trainers, and looking round the room, no one really matched up sartorially to the magnificent surroundings. If we’re dining out somewhere this special shouldn’t we rise to the sense of occasion? Well, that’s the whinge from the Style Police over. Our main courses were, for him, rump of tender-as-you-like Wiltshire lamb served with Cornish new potatoes and, for me, chicken breast (again perfectly cooked) with delicate tarragon infused gnocchi and summer vegetable broth containing favourites from the British garden – including peas and broad beans. We enjoyed a light, chilled bottle of Pinot Grigio with our supper. While we ate and enjoyed the music we agreed that this was an experience that we locals should make an effort to enjoy, not simply when we have people to stay. Before picking up our hand-held audio guides at the Roman Baths we couldn’t resist pudding. I was tempted by the cherry cheesecake. So pretty with its serving of dark cherries atop a pink mousse, with a scoop of frozen strawberry yogurt, while John enjoyed a single scoop of Marshfield ice cream. Searcys menu is a good ambassador for Bath. It’s British, seasonal, tasty but not heavy. There’s still enough spring in our step to enjoy our tour of the romantic torchlit Roman Baths. And don’t forget, if you’re a B&NES resident you qualify for a FREE Discovery Card which gets you into the Baths free. *The other two cities in Europe which, like Bath, have World Heritage status are Venice and the Vatican City.

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THE US DELICIO GUIDE

READ IT | AND EAT

In part two of our annual Delicious Guide The Bath Magazine uncovers the top gastronomic gems which celebrate the diverse culinary culture on offer in our city.

COMBE GROVE Brassknocker Hill, Bath Tel: 01225 834644 Online: combegrove.com

GREEN PARK BRASSERIE Green Park Station, Bath, BA1 1JB Tel: 01225 338565 Online: greenparkbrasserie.com & bathfunctionrooms.com Green Park Brasserie is an independent restaurant, bar and café and has been serving great, fresh, locally sourced food and drink since 1992. The Braz presents four evenings a week of free, live jazz to accompany dinner or drinks between Wednesday and Saturday. The modern British menu offers a wide range of dishes using Newton Farm steaks, Castlemead free range chicken, Homewood sheep’s cheese and fish from Wing of St Mawes. The Brasserie caters for larger groups with a three course set menu. There is an eclectic wine list, a wide range of spirits and draught beers including Butcombe Bitter, Pilsner Urquell and Honey’s Cider. The Braz has also teamed up with the Bath Pizza Co. and now serves a wood fired pizza and a craft beer for £10. The team also runs an elegant, flexible function venue upstairs which can serve up to 100 diners or 140 for a party.

Much loved local Chef Leigh Evans has been keeping a low profile in recent months but all in a good cause. Leigh is now heading up the kitchens at Combe Grove and has spent the last few months building his team and developing an exciting new food offering. The menus are all about big flavours and bold food. Leigh says: “Heading up the kitchen at Combe Grove is a great new challenge, our food offering is quite unique, in the restaurant you can enjoy subtle dishes full of skill and in the bar a range of favourites such as the house burger and daily selection of seasonal salads and healthy snacks, at every time of day there is great food to please every palate”. A new restaurant, swanky cocktail bar, casual dining space and stunning terrace with outdoor kitchen have been created, foodie fans can experience something very special from breakfast through to dinner on Brassknocker Hill.

DEMUTHS COOKERY SCHOOL 6 Terrace Walk, Bath, BA1 1LN Tel: 01225 427938 Online: demuths.co.uk Demuths Cookery School is based in the centre of Bath in a wonderful Georgian building, with a modern, purpose-built kitchen. The school is run by one of the UK's leading vegetarian chefs Rachel Demuth, who owned award-winning Demuths Restaurant for 26 years. She is joined by a team of experienced chef tutors who teach an exciting and varied selection of vegetarian and vegan courses for all abilities from beginner to accomplished cook. Choose from diploma courses, day courses, master classes, half-day and evening workshops. Popular courses include 20 minute suppers, Southern Indian Thali, Thai and Vietnamese, Chinese and Middle Eastern as well as courses dedicated to bread making, raw, vegan and gluten-free cookery. Courses focus on encouraging students to be confident with cookery techniques such as knife skills and using spices and herbs to flavour their dishes.

BLUE QUAILS DELI 7 Bridge Street, Bath, BA2 4AS Tel: 01225 338885 Online: bluequailsdeli.com

SIGN OF THE ANGEL Church Street, Lacock, SN15 2LB Tel: 01249 730230 Online: signoftheangel.co.uk Sign of the Angel is a 15th century coaching inn located in the historic National Trust village of Lacock. Since opening in 2014, the Angel has built a reputation for encompassing the key elements of a traditional inn to provide great tasting food and drinks, in a relaxing atmosphere. Its two AA Rosette restaurant operates on an ethos of using the best seasonal produce, from local suppliers here in the west country to ensure that the food process is traceable, and from sustainable farmers, growers and butchers. Recently awarded Sawday’s ‘Best All-Round’ pub or inn 2016/17 award, this has become the rural location in the area for a quality dining experience. Plus, the quintessential cottage garden provides a perfect location for an al fresco lunch or afternoon tea.

Blue Quails is an award-winning, stylish little deli/café recently taken over by Thomas Barker. Thomas – also a chef – is carrying on the tradition for interesting fresh and tasty food that Peter and Glenda originated with. He caters for all foodies, including vegetarians. Blue Quails’ credo is ‘small place, big heart, offering friendly service and wonderful food.’ Start the day with a full English, or tuck into eggs Benedict or scrambled egg and smoked salmon. International street food, changing daily, is on offer for lunch, with choices like Palestinian, Italian or Turkish frittatas, South African bobotie, all served with a selection of fresh, colourful salads. You’ll find six different soups daily, a great selection of homemade pies and made-to-order artisan sandwiches. Amazing cakes and sweet bites can be enjoyed with Lavazza coffee, infused teas, or hot chocolate – which has been named as the best hot chocolate in Bath.

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OF THE BEST

Great Bath institutions

Melissa Blease visits some stalwart favourite eateries in the city which have stayed the course while newcomers come and go

PEKING

The Peking in Kingsmead Square was the first restaurant to bring eat-in Cantonese, Szechuan and ‘jing cuisine to Bath. Although this smart little eaterie may have undergone several makeovers since it first opened its doors 31 years ago, the family at the helm has never given in to Pan-Asian dining trends involving bench seats and casual service, opting instead to offer a relaxing, elegant environment in which to enjoy dishes cooked to a region-specific theme. You can also order a takeaway. But really, the a la carte is where it’s at. Peking Duck is the house speciality, but if you fail to remember to book this signature dish 24 hours in advance (as required), the crispy aromatic duck is arguably the best in Bath. Set menus are good value, while I find it thrilling that the All You Can Eat option (Monday – Thursday, £20pp) is freshly cooked to order rather than served buffet style. Peking, 1 – 2 New Street, Kingsmead Square, Bath, BA1 2AF. Tel: 01225 466377 / 461750; web: pekingrestaurantbath.co.uk

THE THAI BALCONY

The Thai Balcony celebrates its 13th birthday this year. But it’s more grown-up than its teenage age would suspect, a sophisticated, glamorous first floor dining room offers authentic Thai cuisine in fine style. Lunch here is light on the waistline, the palate and the wallet (circa £7 for one dish, £8-9 for two courses) and, at the time of writing, the luxurious lobster pad thai (£18.95) is trending at the 'push the boat out' end of the menu. But pretty much everything on the a la carte, from the familiar (hot and sour soups; red, green and Penang curries) to the specialities (the black pepper lamb is highly recommended) never fail to delight, entice and satiate. Meanwhile, the restaurant’s own Mini Mart (Monmouth Street) is a one-stop shop for far eastern ingredients plus freshly prepared ready meals to-go, which is handy if you’ve neglected to book a table upstairs. Thai Balcony, Saw Close, Bath, BA1 1EN. Tel: 01225 444450; web: thai-balcony.net

FIREHOUSE ROTISSERIE

It was 1994. Mr Blobby dominated the charts, Forrest Gump gave soft-centred chocolates quasi-philosophical meaning – and the Firehouse Rotisserie opened its doors in Bath. Now, 22 years on, and Blobby is no more. We’re resigned to being left with the Toffee Penny of life’s box of chocolates, the Firehouse remains as sprightly as ever: bright, lively and popular, with reputable foundations and a family background (this restaurant comes to us courtesy of the same ownership as the Hudson Steakhouse). It’s housed in a restored Georgian townhouse, the spacious, uncluttered dining room is sturdily furnished, while an open kitchen confirms menu promises to demonstrate just how fresh your dish of the day will be. The signature rotisserie chicken dishes that give the

restaurant its name are as good as the genre gets (the Texas spice-rubbed incarnation, served with jalapeño coleslaw, particularly), the burgers are boisterous, the pizzas perfect and the salads super fresh, resulting in a taste of modern California/Pacific rim dining in li’l ole Bath. Firehouse Rotisserie, 2 John Street, Bath, BA1 2JL. Tel: 01225 482070; web: firehouserotisserie.co.uk

WOODS

When Woods opened in the late 1970s eating out was largely something that ‘other people’ did. Owners David and Claude Price offered an upmarket but informal bistro environment serving affordable food to match. Now 37 years on, the owner’s grown-up family work here, while children of regulars from the early days bring their own brood along to show them where Mummy and Daddy experienced their first taste of food with a French accent – now that’s what I call a family business. Woods is almost a diner of two halves: a continental style bar-brasserie (dark wood and lots of greenery) at the front leads to an elegantly spacious, beautifully-dressed dining room that offers an aura of calm conviviality. On the food front, a refreshingly uncomplicated approach involving well-sourced ingredients cooked with a Mediterranean ethos offers something for everybody. Change may give us new branches to explore, but continuity gives us roots. Long may Woods continue to thrive. Woods, 9 – 13 Alfred Street, Bath, BA1 2QX. Tel: 01225 314812; web: woodsrestaurant.com

THE RAJPOOT

The Rajpoot’s graceful ambience and familiar cuisine-theme has successfully defied contemporary trends and thankfully changed little over the years. There’s still even a doorman decked out in full Raj regalia waiting to welcome all those who are about to venture below Pulteney Bridge in search of an exotic supper that, regardless of the restaurant’s vintage (the Rajpoot turns 36 this year), offers one of the most authentic Indian dining experiences for miles around. But despite the restaurant’s reputation for olde-worlde charm

MARTINI RESTAURANT

and courtesy, the Rajpoot kitchen has never shied away from reinventing menus that appeal to the developing tastes of the British palate, as the fairly recently introduced lunchtime thali platters and lighter options attest to. A raft of awards including gongs for Best Restaurant in the South West at the British Curry Awards keep the flag flying for a Bath institution that’s thoughtfully moved with the times while at the same time being a local legend. The Rajpoot, 4 Argyle Street, Bath, BA2 4BA. Tel: 01225 466833/444527; web:rajpoot.com

Some restaurants are so familiar that you think you know all about them even if you’ve never crossed the threshold – especially if it’s the kind of place that’s fitted in so comfortably with its neighbourhood for so long (in this instance, 16 years) that we sort of take it for granted. But even loyal patrons of the charming George Street trattoria Martini are happy to welcome newbies, as are the restaurant's proprietors Nunzio, Franco and Luigi (authentic heritage here, then), who make all guests feel like family members. The food experience is equally cheerful: traditional, down-to-earth, realistically-priced Italian grub served in a gently buzzing ambience, perfect for parties and cosy suppers alike. A super-mellow chillax vibe prevails in a way that only a Roman Holiday can oﬀer . . . you find yourself seduced by a dolce vita experience that starts with classy cocktails and finishes after way too much vinsanto. Saluti, Martini! And happy birthday, sweet 16. Martini, 8 – 9 George Street, Bath, BA1 2EH. Tel: 01225 460818; web: martinirestaurant.co.uk

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FOOD | HEROES

RAISING A HEALTHY CROP

Melissa Blease talks to farmer Emily Addicott Sauvao of Bath Farm Girls about how she came to grow everyone’s favourite superfood

ake a look at this crop which is growing in fields near Bath. Can you identify it? Come to think of it, if you can, how do you pronounce its name? Quinoa easily knocks chorizo, paella and endive from the top of the pronunciations charts, and turns talking about bruschetta into a breeze. So, let’s settle the debate. It’s not ‘kwinoa’, nor ‘kwhynooah, it’s ‘keen-wah’ – and right now this ancient supergrain is thriving at Corston Fields Farm, just five miles west of Bath. Farmers Gerald and Ros Addicott have nurtured crops of wheat, barley and oil seed rape at Corston since 1985. In 2012, their eldest granddaughter Rosa was diagnosed as glutenintolerant. Rosa’s mum Emily Addicott Sauvao began to experiment with different wheat replacements to supplement Rosa’s diet. It was when Emily discovered quinoa that, in her own words, ‘a light bulb pinged in my head.’ And lo, the seeds of our August food hero’s business venture were sown. Emily says: “I’ve always been interested in producing a crop on my parents’ farm that we could sell directly to the public. When my personal interest in quinoa was piqued, the inspiration hit me. I did a bit of research and ran a trial crop which turned out to be really successful. I was documenting my journey on Twitter (@bathfarmgirl), and the Shropshire-based British Quinoa Company got wind of what I was doing, and asked me to become a grower for them. “Last year we produced a bumper crop of 40 tonnes of quinoa, the bulk of which went to the British Quinoa Company and then on to Pret A Manger and Waitrose. But I kept a proportion back to sell into our local community under the Bath Farm Girls brand (the other two-thirds of my company are my two little girls) and we sold our first retail pack of wholegrain quinoa to Babington House in Somerset last May.” Good stuff on many levels indeed. “Quinoa is a very versatile little grain,” Emily explains. “It’s actually classed as a vegetable – not many people know that – and it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. It’s naturally high in dietary fibre and it’s a slowly-digested carbohydrate, so you don’t get any of that ‘sugar-peak’, carb-related sluggishness after eating it. It cooks 60 TheBATHMagazine

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quickly and can be served hot or cold, it freezes really well, and it’s a great alternative to rice, pasta and couscous. Quinoa flour is also great for baking because of its high protein content; anybody who bakes with gluten-free flours will know how tricky it can be, but because quinoa flour retains a bit of elasticity, it doesn’t fall apart when baked.” It really is all things to all people – what’s not to love? Emily is rightfully proud of her achievements in being one of just a handful of farmers nurturing and promoting a crop that, until fairly recently, languished in the dusty corners of small independent health food shops. “It’s really fulfilling to have produced an end product that I can see on shop shelves, and know that I’ve nursed that crop from a tiny seed in the ground through to it being packaged up and labelled right here on the farm. And because I’ve personally managed every single grain that goes into those packages, it makes me so proud to get Tweets or Instagram-tags from customers using my quinoa in their recipes. The first time somebody did this I was out in the field driving a tractor

GLUTEN FREE: main picture, quinoa growing in the fields of the family farm at Corston near Bath Opposite page, the Bath Farm Girls aka Emily with daughters Rosa and Charlotte Far right, the finished quinoa products from the Bath Farm Girls are certified gluten free

and I burst into tears. I must have looked like a mad woman, but it was so satisfying to see someone enjoying the fruits of so much hard work.” That hard work is ongoing. Emily is hoping to develop other gluten-free crops on the farm while experimenting more with quinoa. Quinoa flakes are on the way, with further cereals, snack bars and flavoured quinoa in the experimental pipeline. Daily life on the farm, meanwhile, must go on. “Every working day is different and that’s what I love about farming. As you read this feature, we’ll have probably finished harvesting our barley and be moving on to looking after our wheat. I’ll be flat out in the fields between now and midOctober harvesting, drying grain, preparing the earth for planting, cultivating, ploughing and getting ready to plant next year’s crops. In between all that I’ll be preparing orders, answering enquiries, developing recipes – but I’ll always make sure I spend as much time with my family as possible.” So who might be our farm heroine’s own food heroes be? “I love Jamie Oliver’s passion for getting kids into good food, and putting healthy meals

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FOOD | HEROES

into schools – I’m a strong believer that if kids can be involved in the growing and preparation of food from as early as possible they’re much more likely to make healthy food choices later in life. But as we have pre-school aged children, my husband Eddie and I don’t get out much. We have, however, enjoyed the occasional celebratory meal at The Pig Hotel (at Hunstrete, near Bath), and we had a delicious roast at The Cowshed in town recently. But I like cooking for the family at home – quinoa naturally falls well into a lot of summer dishes

as you can make so many delicious salads with it. We love simply mingling it up with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, spring onions and a squeeze of lime. To accompany that, Newton Farm Shop in Newton-St-Loe have some lovely homegrown produce, and fantastic barbecueready meats. My parents live next door, so we also tuck into whatever comes out of mum’s greenhouse. The strawberries have been a hit this year but I have to wrestle the kids for them and I normally lose. I’m also bit of an ice cream addict, loving the flavours of the Chew Moo’s

range, made in Dundry.” Emily is an inspirational food hero indeed: the down-to-earth, hard-working farm girl who keeps it local, poised to be a superfood superstar. You might say ‘kwhynooah’ – I say, ‘kwhy not?’ n Bath Farm Girls / Emily Addicott Sauvao, Corston Fields Farm Partnership, Corston, Bath. Tel: 07933 832523; for information about stockists and recipe ideas visit: bathfarmgirls.com.

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THE WINE COLUMN Angela Mount, wine and food critic picks some medal winning wines for this Olympics month

he International Wine Challenge is the world’s most influential wine competition, with over 15,000 wines, from over 50 countries, submitted and judged by 400 judges. In addition to the wines, much-coveted awards are handed out to the best wine merchants, effectively the Oscars of the wine industry. For the third year running, Bath’s very own Great Western Wine has scooped the top gong for South West of England Wine Merchant of the year. The GWW team also picked up trophies and gold medals in several other highly respected competitions, including the Sommeliers Wine Awards. So it seems fitting to feature a few of their coveted gold and silver medal winners for the summer holiday season. First up is a relatively new arrival, the piercingly fresh and zesty Mohua Sauvignon Blanc 2015 which picked up an IWC gold (GWW £11.50). As with everything in life, there’s poor, decent, good and best in class; it’s no different with New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, which is still riding the crest of a wave of popularity, but there are some cut-price shockers around. But you can rest assured with this glorious delight from the Wairau Valley in Marlborough, which got an unequivocal thumbs up from the top judges. It has a crystal-clear purity of flavour, with seamless elegance; bright, intense and packed to the rafters with a combination of passion fruit and citrus zest character, with a dash of pink grapefruit. A poised and stylish thoroughbred, perfect with seafood, goats cheese and a match for Asian salads and Thai fish curries. An August wine choice wouldn’t be complete without the ubiquitous Cotes de Provençe Rose. But be careful what you choose – these tremulously pale and delicate wines are best enjoyed in their youth, so make sure you’re getting the latest vintage. The UK’s top sommeliers picked Chateau Gassier Le Pas du Moine, Cotes de Provençe 2015 (GWW £13.95) as a worthy gold medal winner. Produced on a family estate in the herb-scented hills of Provençe, this pale salmon-coloured delight seduces with its fragrant raspberry and pomegranate aromas; subtle, delicate, yet with a surprisingly deep, creamy note, it’s flavour-packed with layers of thyme, fennel and red berry fruits, with a twist of lemon. Chill right down, and enjoy with classic tuna niçoise, chargrilled prawns, charcuterie, or let it star on its own. Staying in Southern France, but moving onto red, one of my favourite producers in the Southern Rhone Valley, Domaine Brusset, picked up an International Wine Challenge Silver for its Cairanne, Côtes du Rhone Village Les Travers 2014 (GWW £13.95). This is what proper Côtes du Rhone should be about; rich and deep, both in colour and flavour, it has a beguiling warmth and softness of touch, with irresistibly bold, sweet, spicy flavours, and an incredible velvety texture. It’s bright, juicy and brimming with blackberry, allspice and wild herb character. Try with herb and garlic studded lamb, roasted vegetables, rib eye steaks, or mature Cheddar. My final pick is the IWC silver medal winning Casa da Passarella A Descoberta Tinto 2012 (GWW £10.50). I have long been a champion of Portuguese red wines, which perform well in competitions, but are still underrated by many red wine drinkers. If you haven’t made the move to Portuguese reds, but love big, bold, rich, yet soft reds, this award-winner is the way to start the journey. Produced from the same grapes used for port, it’s a dense, brooding delight, packed with dark chocolate, dried fig, and sweet blackberry fruit, overlaid with hints of black pepper, cedar and mulled wine spices. Perfect for barbecued foods, it’s also a winner with roast beef. The lovely chaps at Great Western Wine have put together a case of 12 bottles of top medal winning wines for £126. It’s also a good excuse to pop into the shop and see the recent makeover. n

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THE US DELICIO GUIDE LOOKING FOR RESTAURANT INSPIRATION? The Delicious Guide to Bath 2016 featuring all our favourite eateries is available online at our website thebathmag.co.uk

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MOTORING | TEST DRIVE

The Infiniti Q3 pictured in Bath. Image by TBM

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MOTORING | TEST DRIVE

INFINITI & BEYOND

There’s a new car on the block, and it is threatening the very heart of the premium compact segment. Dara Foley discovers the Infiniti Q30 and finds there’s no end to its ambition

ike Lexus is to Toyota, Infiniti is the luxury car division of Nissan. For many years Infiniti only really sold across North America, a popular choice for drivers wanting great build, high performance, bucket loads of luxury plus cool, advanced technology without having to bust the bank. I remember a visit to New York in 2012 and my first sighting of the imposing FX30 (now revised into the QX70 since 2014) and once identified, you suddenly realise just how abundant they were on the streets of Manhattan. In fact, since 2006 over 100,000 Infiniti’s are sold every year in the U.S. Stark contrast that across the whole of Europe fewer than 10,000 cars have been sold every year in the same period. British interest really started in 2013, the Q30 was designed in the Nissan studios in Paddington, engineered in Cranfield and manufactured at Nissan’s plant in Sunderland where 4,000 workers have been specially trained in luxury vehicle production to bring the new Q30 to market. They even have their own test track dedicated to the development of the Infiniti range. This £250 million investment heralds a new era for Nissan’s Infiniti as they look to conquer Europe and the globe with giant strides. With over 10 new UK showrooms scheduled to open during 2016 Infiniti will make its

presence felt, with familiarity, engagement and availability in every key region of the country. Infiniti Bristol recently opened to show off the range, and an impressive new showroom on their Brislington site is currently being fitted, and should be finished and fully operational by September. The Q30 is unlike anything previously produced by Infiniti. It is firmly targeted at the active compact market - fair to say that this is a very competitive segment, with the Mercedes Aclass, Audi A3 and BMW 1-series and even Volvo V40 dominating European sales, but Infiniti is not entering any bun fight without a carefully mapped strategy in place, and undoubtedly the Q30 looks like it has the capabilities to compete well. Part of the attraction must be that through Nissan’s alliance with Renault and Daimler, the Q30 inherits much of the chassis architecture, drive train and even many of the interior controls from the Benz A-class. This may not be such a bad thing as the Q30 range starts at £20,550. Although there’s a clear foundation of European pedigree, visually the Q30 makes a striking contrast to the traditional, conservative design preferences of the Germans, and since the Q30 was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2013 as a concept car, much of its looks have been maintained rather than diluted. This unique styling defies convention and its

refreshing, flowing lines and sensuous curves coupled with a sporty elevated stance will appeal not only to a younger driver but also to those who hanker after something a bit different. Most noticeable is the distinctive Infiniti grille and logo. Climb inside and the Q30 is deceptively spacious, good width, height, and legroom, and the boot really is substantial, all unexpected and compares well with other cars in this class. The interior design though is plush and tasteful, covered in complementary dark Nappa leather and Alcantara - a beautiful suede-like material often used in the fashion industry but especially in high-end automotive and yacht manufacture, it feels opulent to the touch and with neat stitching every inch of the cabin exudes the quality normally only seen in very high-end builds. Mercedes owners will recognise the switchgear, the key fob, steering wheel controls, electric seat adjustment, window and side mirror controls on the door, and the slightly odd (but you soon get used to it) parking brake below the steering wheel which are all derived from the Daimler alliance. One of the Q30's best assets is the drive, with a ride height a little higher than most luxuryhatchbacks it has a softer but supple suspension. The engineers have put great effort into the shock-absorbers; they hold the car

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taught and stable through cornering, while giving smooth cushioning against pot-holes and cobbles, a near-perfect balance for city driving. Suspension and road noise have also been subdued through the springs and lavish padding. However the Q30 has a playful side too and is responsive and fun when you throw it about a bit; the steering is light and agile and the engine (even on the standard 1.6 model) is punchy and willing. On the test car the six speed manual transmission was very agreeable. There are two petrol and two diesel engines on offer – the petrol ones are 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre turbocharged units, while the diesel options are 1.5 and 2.2 litres respectively. There’s also choice of two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, automatic or manual transmissions. The Q30 also has a good choice of trim levels, principally SE, Premium, and Sport, however each option can be enhanced further with various convenience packs. But even at the standard base specification, the SE models are generously equipped, with an audio system with six speakers, two USB ports, voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity, a radio and a CD player. Also included is a seveninch touchscreen and a rotary controller to make it all work. All Q30’s have automatic headlights, air-con, heated electrically adjustable door mirrors, a leather multifunction steering wheel, an electronic parking brake, rear parking sensors, a tyre-pressure monitoring system, and 18inch alloy wheels. One of the best add-ons is the innovative 360 degree view system, (similar to the feature on the new Rolls Royce Dawn) four cameras front, rear, and two located in the wing mirrors are merged on screen to give an allround view which is clever and particularly helpful for tight parking and helping to overcome blind spots. They also keep watch - alerting you to any moving object that might be at risk by approaching the car. With cameras and sensors comes the ability to offer automated parking and intelligent driver assistance such as forward collision warning, assisted breaking, lane departure, and blind spot warnings should a vehicle be passing in an adjacent lane. You will also have options for traffic sign recognition which will display and remind you of sign posted speed limits on the instrument panel. Other options that will be in big demand are the glass sunroof and a brilliant Bose entertainment system. Once again they are priced keenly. There’s also a first for Infiniti with the development of Active Noise Cancellation (only available currently on the 2.2d engined model) - low frequency sound-waves are emitted from the door speakers and sounddamping materials are also used to minimize noise. Infiniti says that this results in a 10 percent improvement in conversation audibility over the vehicle's leading competitor at a speed of 120 km/h (75 mph). Overall the Q30 is an impressive and very competent car, it is very well built... Nissan have a great track record in reliability as do Mercedes, where the engines and mainframe are sourced. Include all the added luxuries and devilish detail that make quality finishing affordable to 66 THEBATHMAGAZINE

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anyone looking at this market and you have a very viable alternative to the German monopoly. Further evidence of the impact on the market came with a trading update from Infiniti; just six months into 2016 and Infiniti continues to increase its presence on UK roads with new car registrations already exceeding the total recorded during the full 12 month period of 2015 and up 157% year on year... expect to see Infiniti go beyond. ■ Test car courtesy of Infiniti Bristol, 832 Bath Road, Brislington, Bristol BS4 5LQ; Tel: 0117 992 6111 infiniti.co.uk SWEEPING CURVES AND ALL TOYED UP: from the outside the styling is close to conceptual, on the inside up-to-date technology such as the 360° allround camera makes urban driving easy and controlled.

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BATH @ WORK Our series of photographic portraits by Neill Menneer shows Bath people at work. View a gallery of Bath@Work subjects at: thebathmag.co.uk

Frances Bellord Gardener

y first experience of exhibiting gardening prowess was attempting to acquire a Gardener’s Badge at Brownies. Despite carefully nurturing my nasturtiums, I had failed to tell anyone about my plans, so Brown Owl was none the wiser. I was seven. Scrolling forward a few years, I found myself graduating from a post-graduate diploma in Landscape Design, at a time of national financial crisis where jobs were scarce. After an initial panic, consisting of reading Down and Out in Paris and London and Man’s Search for Meaning, I decided that until I had to pawn my clothes to eat there was still hope. So I started my own business utilising my love of plants and interest in the built environment; Bellord Plants was born. The beneficial effects of gardening are well documented. I can vouch for the fact that a few hours of gardening can really change the way you view the world, for the better. After all, 80 per cent of the world’s population still go to plants to cure their ailments, so it makes sense to reclaim your health in the garden. Gardens are a form of self-expression, thinking about the colours, the form, the scents and the overall look of the space is part of the process. Every garden has its own atmosphere, the spirit of the place, and part of design and plantsmanship is being sensitive to this, along with reading the wishes of your client! Knowing the constraints of the garden, what the soil is like, where the sun shines and whether the site is exposed is a vital starting point to a good design. The soil in this area is mainly alkaline, so many plants, such as azaleas, rhododendrons, pieris and heathers will always look a bit sad. If you want a garden to really work then make sure you get the plants that are suited to the conditions. Within these constraints you can really start to use flair and imagination to make a beautiful space. Gardens are a work in progress, they are also an artifice. So if you get bored with something or it is getting too big, get rid of it. In this way you can make room for some plants that you really love, or one that you have spotted doing well in someone else’s garden. Sometimes less is more, a restricted palette and fewer plants might mean your space feels more relaxing. On the other hand you may have a courtyard garden where some vulgar clashing colours brings it alive. Since starting my business I have met a really interesting range of people and it is a real pleasure to help them enjoy their gardens. There have been a few disasters, like clobbering someone’s clematis and getting locked into a garden by a suspicious son-in-law. Sure, there are days when I fantasise about other career paths, especially when it has been raining for days, but on the whole I am glad I left my office job where I often felt like screaming, and stepped outside into a different career. To find out more about my work please look at: bellordplants.com. n

PORTRAIT: Neill Menneer at Spirit Photographic. Visit: capturethespirit.co.uk, tel: 01225 483151. THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

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CITY | PEOPLE

CITYNEWS News in brief

n Bath law firm Mowbray Woodwards has made two graduate appointments at its Queen Square oﬃces. Charlotte Collard joins as a paralegal in the Family Law team having graduated in law from Plymouth University. Charlotte will begin studying the Legal Practice Course in September and hopes to specialise in family law. The Commercial Law team welcomes Katharine Robinson who also joins as a paralegal. Katharine graduated from the University of Reading with the view to complete the LPC with an additional Masters qualification in law, business and management over the next two years. n CircleBath has appointed orthopaedic surgeon Mr Andrew Chambler as Clinical Chair at the hospital. Andrew, who specialises in shoulder and elbow surgery, has been a consultant surgeon at CircleBath since 2010, where he works alongside Mr Gavin Jenning and Mr Simon Gregg-Smith. They form part of a highly qualified team at Bath’s orthopaedics unit. As one of the leading surgeons in his field, Andrew is committed to furthering the understanding of advanced arthroscopic techniques and joint replacement, a pursuit he first began while working at Yeovil District Hospital. Andrew has been auditing surgical outcomes for ten years. If you require surgery on your shoulder or elbow, you can ask your GP to refer you to Mr Chambler, or one of his colleagues at the Circle hospital at Peasedown St John, for a consultation.

CROWD-FUNDING FOR FESTIVAL The popular and innovative annual Bath Film Festival, which takes place in November, has launched a crowd-funding campaign in order to bring film to a wider Bath audience. So that the festival can carry on bringing outdoor screenings, pop up cinema and cinematic events to Bath, it is crowd-funding to raise £5,000, partly for an inflatable screen which can go anywhere. In September, Bath Film Festival has two big, outdoor screenings planned. Tickets are £2 per person (only available on the night) with under 10s free. The first is pedal powered and in partnership with Curo. The Jungle Book (2016) will be screened in Springfield Park, Foxhill on Friday 2 September. There will be a free jungle mask-making workshop with DNA Arts from 4pm at Foxhill Community Centre, followed by picnicking from 7.15pm at the park. Returning to Bath City Farm the second screening will be Zootropolis on Saturday 4 September – also with a free mask-making

PORTABLE CINEMA: an inflatable screen means films can be screened almost anywhere workshop from 10am at the farm. Both films will also feature performances by The Natural Theatre Company and Desperate Men. Screenings will only be cancelled if the weather reaches Biblical proportions. Even a few pounds will be hugely welcome and will help support this great local charity. If you can help the crowd-funding, visit: bathfilmfestial.org.uk.

PROMOTING DANCE IN THE CITY The ICIA at the University of Bath has appointed Fleur Hoefkens-Lee as creative producer for Bath Dance. The organisation has, since 2011, been connecting, supporting and developing dancers in Bath, as well as cocommissioning national companies and community projects. Key examples include a listing service, cocommissioning companies such as Akram Khan to perform in Bath, and the Rosemary Lee community project, Rising, at Bath International Music

Festival. Bath Dance has also opened the doors for local dancers in Bath through the DanceSeed bursaries. Fleur will be shaping and advising the future direction of Bath Dance. Jamie Eastman, ICIA Director said: “Fleur’s experience in building and supporting dance for young people in Bath will help nourish the future of Bath Dance, bringing dance to more people and supporting professional dancers in the region. ”

CREATIVE: Fleur Hoefkens-Lee

BUSINESS IS PROUD TO PUT SOMETHING BACK Eight charities and community groups in the Bath area are sharing almost £7,000 from Bath Building Society’s Annual Charity Awards scheme. A further three organisations have received a pair of Bath Building Society hot air balloon tickets which can be used to raise funds, and one other organisation has been chosen as the Charity of the Year. Chief executive Dick Jenkins said: “The awards are very important to us and are a way for the Society to give something back to the local community. It is amazing the work some of these organisations do and the local people that they help and on such little funding.” He added: “I’m 70 THEBATHMAGAZINE

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AWARDS: Bath Building Society chief executive Dick Jenkins, front second left, joins fellow judges including the Mayor of Bath Paul Crossley and representatives from charities and groups just glad we can help.” The overall category is for the Charity of the Year and this year the judging panel chose the Bath

Samaritans. The local branch of the charity last year recieved 45,671 contacts from people wanting to talk, including by

phone, email or text, as part of its round-the-clock service run by volunteers. The other good causes given awards are: St Barnabas Church, Bath which recieved £1,500, Bath Child Contact Centre, Bath FoodCycle, Contact the Elderly, Bath which each received £1,000. The following groups each received £500; The Keep in Touch Club, Paulton, 1st Keynsham Scout Group, Keynsham, Odd Down at Play, Bath and One Community Trust, Keynsham. The following received a pair of hot air balloon tickets to raffle: We Hear You, Bath, Oldfield Park Pre-School, Bath and Headway Salisbury and South Wiltshire.

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FAMILY | EVENTS

FAMILYDIARY IDEAS FOR THINGS TO DO WITH THE CHILDREN THIS AUGUST PUPPET PEOPLE n Victoria Art Gallery Wednesday 3 August, 10.30 – 11.30am & 12 – 1pm Children get the chance to use collage to create a character from a wooden spoon. For ages three to six.

Design rockets and see how they fly at the Herschel Museum of Astronomy

FROZEN SING-ALONG Friday 19 August, 10.30am Do you want to build a snowman? Join other parents and children for a special sing-along showing of one of the most successful children’s films. Certificate PG. £5 per person. Book your place online.

Also at Victoria Art Gallery this month BOOK ENDS Friday 5 August, 10.30 – 11.30am & 12 – 1pm Design a scrap book or a sketch book. For ages six to 11. ART LIT UP Friday 19 August, 10.30 – 11.30am & 12 – 1pm Create a candle holder using model magic. For ages six to 11. DEEP BLUE SEA Wednesday 24 August, 10.30 – 11.30am & 12 – 1pm Draw imaginary creatures from the sea using pastels, pencils and pens. For ages four to 11. LEGIO n Roman Baths Monday 1 August, 10am – 1pm & 2 – 4pm Investigate the Roman army and make a shield. Also at the Roman Baths this month LITTLE BRITANNIA Monday 15 August, 10am – 1pm & 2 – 4pm Investigate life as a child in Roman times. AN AMERICAN TOY STORY n The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath Until Sunday 30 October For fans of film and toys, this exhibition takes us on a time journey from Mickey Mouse through to Frozen via Star Wars, Superman and James Bond. Take your little Spiderman and Elsa in costume and they can let off steam on the museum’s wide lawns. The cakes are good too. Visit: americanmuseum.org or tel: 01225 820866. BOWOOD HOUSE AND GROUNDS n Bowood House, Derry Hill, near Calne, Wiltshire Daily, 11am – 6pm There are acres of grounds for children to race about and one of the best adventure playgrounds in the south west, complete with pirate ship, big slides and treetop walkways. There’s also Tractor Ted’s little farm, featuring animals and diggers to sit on. Bowood also has a café and a restaurant, but you can take a picnic. For adults this is a beautiful spot in the Wiltshire countryside with a lake, picturesque follies and statues. Tickets: adults £12, pensioners £10, children five to 12 £9 and two to four-year-olds £7. A family ticket is £36.

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players aged five to 11 years. £90 per young person. Visit wiltshiremusic.org.uk to book online.

FLYING ROCKETS n The Herschel Museum of Astronomy, 19 New King Street, Bath, BA1 2BL Friday 5 August, 1 – 3pm Race through space with this fun activity at the Herschel Museum of Astronomy. Design and decorate your own intergalactic craft. Suitable for ages three – eight years. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free entry for Discovery Card holders. BATH FOLK FESTIVAL n Bath City Farm, Kelston View, Twerton, Bath Saturday 6 August, 11am – 4pm There’ll be free music from a number of folk bands, including Bath Youth Folk Band, along with a bouncy castle, face painting, dancing and free workshops. All are welcome to attend. Visit bathcityfarm.org.uk to find out more. Also at Bath City Farm this month ROOTS AND SHOOTS TODDLER GROUP Every Tuesday, 10 – 11.30am Bring your under 5s along to feed the animals, explore the farm and discover the magic of nature and gardening. Cost: £3 for one child, £4.50 for two, £6 for three. Includes a free hot drink for adults and squash for youngsters. All welcome, no need to book. LITTLE PICCOLOS n Wiltshire Music Centre, Ashley Road, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire, BA15 1DZ Monday 8 August, 11am 45 minutes of singing, moving to music, colourful props and instrument playing for two to four year olds. £6 for children, £2 adults. Also at Wiltshire Music Centre this month SUMMER STRINGS: MUSIC OLYMPICS Monday 8 – Wednesday 10 August, 9.30am – 3.30pm A fun-packed three day course for young string

FAMILY BAT WALK n Dyrham Park, near Bath Wednesday 24 August, 8 – 9pm Get the family together to explore the National Trust parkland at Dyrham and look out for bats as the sun sets. Meet in the car park beforehand. Take a torch along and wear suitable clothing for an outdoor walk. Bat detectors are provided. Admission: £5 adults, £3 children. HAND IN GLOVE n Fashion Museum Tuesday 16 August, 10.30am – 12.30pm & 1.30 – 3.30pm Children will get the chance to marvel at some of the amazing gloves on display and create a special design to take home. Included in admission price, no need to book. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Also at the Fashion Museum this month BLACK AND WHITE Tuesday 23 August, 10.30am – 12.30pm & 1.30 – 3.30pm Explore 1960s fashion design and make a twotone design fit for the swinging 60s. Included in admission price, no need to book. Children must be accompanied by an adult. THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES n The egg, Sawclose, Bath, BA1 1ET Thursday 25 – Sunday 28 August, times vary Do you dare to venture onto the murky moors after dark? Join this 30-strong young cast as they delve into the mind of the world’s greatest detective – Sherlock Holmes. 16-year-old TRB Theatre School member Milo Morris has adapted this play with mentorship from Bristol based playwright Tom Wainwright. Guided by the egg’s professional team in this first of its kind summer production. Suitable for 11 years and over. Tickets: adults £8.50 / children £7.50. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Visit: theatreroyal.org.uk or call 01225 823409 to book tickets. DESIGN A PLATE OR TABLE CENTREPIECE n No.1 Royal Crescent Friday 12 August, 11am – 1pm Be inspired by Wedgwood and Derby and design your own paper plate or have fun

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constructing a magnificent centrepiece. Find out about extravagant 18th century dining room table displays and hear stories of those indulging to excess. Free with normal admission to the museum. GO CANOEING STARTER SESSION n Bath Canoe Club, The Old Organ Factory, Cleveland Cottages, Bath Saturday 13 and 27 August, 2 – 5pm Get out into the great outdoors this summer with the whole family and try your hand at canoeing at this starter session. Adults and children (age eight and over) are welcome. Children under 14 must be accompanied on the water by an adult. All canoeing equipment will be provided but you will need your own clothing plus a lightweight anorak and trainers. You will get wet so don't wear your best clothes. £15 per person, which includes day membership and insurance. Full changing and shower facilities are available. There is no parking at the clubhouse. Booking is essential. Visit: bathcanoeclub.co.uk. PRINTMAKING FUN WORKSHOP n The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath Saturday 6 August, 10am – 12pm Organised by The Holburne’s Bronze Arts Award students and the museum’s learning officer, children aged five – 12 can tap into their creative sides and learn the art of printmaking. Booking essential. £5 per child. Visit

PUFFIN ROCK n Little Theatre Cinema, St Michael’s Place, Bath Tuesday 9 August, 11am A special showing of the award-winning animated television show Puffin Rock, exclusively for preschool children and their parents and carers. Set on an island off the coast of Ireland, Oona and Baba are joined by a close group of friends who all help them get in and out of trouble. Visit picturehouses.com.

A new take on Jack and the Beanstalk at The Pound Arts Centre holburne.org for more information. Call 01225 388568 or email learning@holburne.org to book. Also at The Holburne Museum this month SUMMER ART CAMP Monday 22 – Friday 26 August, 9am – 4pm Led by the museum’s experienced team of artists, children can take part in creative activities inspired by the museum’s collection and exhibitions. Book for just one day or for the whole week. For children aged five – 12. £38 per day, or receive a £20 discount for booking five consecutive days. Booking is essential. Call 01225 388568 or email learning@holburne.org.

TALL STORIES SUMMER SCHOOL n The Pound Arts Centre, Corsham, Wiltshire, SN13 9HX Monday 8 – Friday 12 August, 9am – 4pm Children can create and perform an imaginative story in a week, with a performance on Friday afternoon. Led by The Last Baguette Theatre Company, they’ll discover how to create theatre and scenery in a fun and friendly environment. £100 for the week per child, includes breakfast and refreshments. Age guidance: seven – 13 years. Visit: poundarts.org.uk or call 01249 701628 / 712618. Also at The Pound Arts Centre this month GARLIC THEATRE JACK AND THE BEANS TALK Tuesday 16 August, 2pm A fresh and funny retelling of the traditional story and an ideal gentle introduction to theatre for three – seven year olds. Tickets: £7 adults / £6 concessions. n

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MARVELLOUS MUSEUMS

There is so much history at your fingertips in and around Bath, which is renowned for its heritage status. The Bath Magazine guides you through the best museums in the city and surrounding area THE ROMAN BATHS Stall Street, Bath, BA1 1LZ Tel: 01225 477785 Web: romanbaths.co.uk Walk around the steaming Great Bath where people bathed nearly 2,000 years ago, see the ruins of the temple of Minerva where Roman worshippers gathered, and explore the fascinating Roman Baths museum. Until the end of August, the Roman Baths is open until 10pm every evening (last admission 9pm). The historic site takes on a magical atmosphere once the sun goes down, the crowds disappear and the flickering torches are lit around the Great Bath. Admission is free for local Discovery Card holders.

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THE FASHION MUSEUM Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath, BA1 2QH Tel: 01225 477789 Web: fashionmuseum.co.uk An inspiration for every fashion lover, the Fashion Museum is home to one of the world’s leading collections of historic and fashionable dress. You’ll see everything from sumptuous Georgian gowns to spectacular outfits by some of today’s top designers. The latest exhibition, A History of Fashion in 100 Objects, showcases 100 star pieces from the museum’s collection, from a ‘blackwork’ embroidered man’s shirt dating from the time of the Spanish Armada, to a ‘body-con’ Galaxy dress of the early 2000s. Admission is free for local Discovery Card holders.

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MUSEUMS | GUIDE

THE HOLBURNE MUSEUM Great Pulteney Street, Bath Tel: 01225 388569 Web: holburne.org The Holburne Museum is a treasure house of Old Master paintings, portrait miniatures, porcelain, Renaissance bronzes and ceramics, silver and embroidery and is particularly renowned for its 18th century British paintings. Open daily and admission to the permanent collection is free. The temporary exhibition at the museum is Stubbs and the Wild, on display until 2 October. This is an exhibition of animal portraits, grand fantasies, and exquisite prints and drawings by renowned British wildlife painter George Stubbs (1724 – 1806). Admission is £10 for adults, £9 concessions. Under 16s go free. Under 12s must be accompanied by an adult. On Tuesdays admission is two for one. Open 10am – 5pm, Monday to Saturday, and 11am – 5pm on Sundays and bank holidays.

NO. 1 ROYAL CRESCENT No. 1 Royal Crescent, Bath, BA1 2LR Tel: 01225 428126 Web: no1royalcrescent.org.uk

THE MUSEUM OF EAST ASIAN ART 12 Bennett Street, Bath, BA1 2QJ Tel: 01225 464640 Web: meaa.org.uk Incongruously placed just a stone’s throw from two of Bath’s iconic attractions, The Circus and The Royal Crescent, the Museum of East Asian Art is a sanctuary of tranquillity in a bustling World Heritage city. This is the only museum in the UK solely dedicate to arts and culture from East and South East Asia, with a collection of over 2,000 objects representing over 7,000 years of artistry and craftsmanship. The collection of Chinese art is particularly comprehensive, covering ceramics, jades, bronzes and much more. Some of the Chinese bamboo and wood carvings are among the finest found in European collections. The museum truly showcases the exquisite craftsmanship from East Asia to rival the best of European art.

Step back in time and experience life at home with the Georgians at one of the best addresses in Bath. Discover how the other half lived below stairs at No. 1 Royal Crescent and marvel at the view of the world famous Royal Crescent from the upper floors. Also learn why every dog had its day in the Servants’ Hall. Admission: adult £10, child £4, family £22. Discovery Card holders receive 50% off ticket prices. Opening times: Mondays 12 – 5pm, Tues – Sun 10.30am – 5pm (last admission 4.30pm).

TROWBRIDGE MUSEUM The Shires Shopping Centre, Court Street, Trowbridge, BA14 8AT Tel: 01225 751339 Web: trowbridgemuseum.co.uk

Discover 1,000 years of local history at Trowbridge Museum. From a medieval castle and a Magna Carta baron to the industrial story of the rise of west of England woollen cloth production, the museum explores the unique history of Wiltshire’s county town. As well as fantastic exhibits and a collection of over 20,000 objects, the museum regularly hosts original temporary exhibitions showcasing anything from the exploration of historical themes to showcasing modern artworks. There is also a programme of children’s activities and events coinciding with school holidays (most of these are free) and lots more including the famous museum mouse hunt, medieval dressing up and Ye Olde selfie booth. The museum also hosts professionally taught adult craft workshops from peg loom weaving to fine art and felting. Free admission. Open Tuesday – Friday, 10am – 4pm, and Saturday, 10am – 4.30pm.

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MUSEUMS | GUIDE

BECKFORD’S TOWER Lansdown Road, Bath, BA1 9BH Tel: 01225 460705 Web: beckfordstower.org.uk Climb the pink spiral staircase to see panoramic views of Bath’s landscape setting before discovering the treasures of one of England’s greatest collectors. Witness the gold columns shimmer in the sunlight and explore one of Britain’s architectural treasures. Admission: adult £4.50, child £2, family £10. Opening times: weekends and bank holidays until 30 October, 10.30am – 5pm.

HERSCHEL MUSEUM OF ASTRONOMY 19 New King Street, Bath, BA1 2BL Tel: 01225 446865 Web: herschelmuseum.org.uk

Visit the intimate home and exquisite Georgian garden of the famous astronomer William Herschel and his comet-chasing sister Caroline. Stand where Uranus was first seen by telescope – the first new planet discovered since Ancient times, and see the flagstones that shattered when William Herschel’s workshop exploded – with him inside. Explore the only museum which tells the story of music and science in Georgian Bath. Admission: adult £6.50, child £3.50, family £14.50. Tickets are 2-for-1 for Discovery Card holders. Opening times: Tues – Fri 2 – 5pm, weekends 1.30 – 5pm.

MUSEUM OF BATH ARCHITECTURE The Countess of Huntingdon’s Chapel, The Paragon, The Vineyards, Bath, BA1 5NA Tel: 01225 333895 Web: museumofbatharchitecture.org.uk Discover how Georgian Bath was built and get a bird’s eye view of the most famous of Georgian cities with the Bath City Model. See the variety of mallets, chisels, squares and saws that transformed the city in Jane Austen’s era, which are still used today. Admission: £5.50 adult, £2.50 children, £13 family, Discovery Card holders receive 50p off. Open Tuesday – Friday 2 – 5pm and weekends 1.30 – 5pm.

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MUSEUMS | GUIDE

THE HAYNES INTERNATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM Sparkford, Yeovil, BA22 7LH Tel: 01963 440804 Web: himm.co.uk The Haynes International Motor Museum is the UK’s largest exhibition of great cars from around the world. A living and working museum, with over 400 amazing cars and bikes from nostalgic classics of the 1950s and 60s, glorious Bentleys and Rolls Royces to exciting super cars of today, like the Jaguar XJ220. The museum will give you unrivalled access to explore, discover and experience the history, designs and technologies of motoring from around the world. Complete your day in the museum’s café, which serves meals, drinks and snacks. And don’t forget to visit the gift shop while children play in the outdoor motor themed play area. For a full list of all the 2016 events and more about the museum itself, including entry prices, visit himm.co.uk or call 01963 440804.

THE SHOE MUSEUM 40 High Street, Street, Somerset, BA16 0EQ Tel: 01458 842243 Web: the-shoe-museum.org The Shoe Museum is a great place to visit for all the family. During the summer holidays there are royal themed activities including a trail, making a crown and designing a shoe for the Queen. Visitors can

also see hundreds of shoes and boots from the Roman times to the present day. Star items include Princess Diana’s wedding slipper and a giant boot. There are also temporary exhibitions telling the story of the Clarks desert boot and a display to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death with a shoe that would have been worn during his lifetime. Open from 10am – 4.45pm, Monday to Friday. Admission is free.

AMERICAN MUSEUM IN BRITAIN Claverton Manor, Bath, BA2 7BD Tel: 01225 460503 Web: americanmuseum.org Housed in a manor house in an area of outstanding natural beauty, the American Museum is home to the finest collection of Americana outside the United States. The museum is famous for its Colonial to Civil War era period rooms, its outstanding quilt collection, inspiring folk art and Native American collections. Family backpacks enhance a family visit and there are many events throughout the year including family fun crafts during school holidays and children’s workshops. This year’s special exhibition An American Toy Story that appeals to all generations ends on 30 October. Opening hours until 30 October 2016: Tues – Sun, 12 – 5pm, café and gardens open from 10.30am. Closed Mondays, apart from bank holidays and during August. Admission: Adults £11, concessions £9.50, children (5 – 18 years) £6.50, family ticket £28.50. THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

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MUSEUMS | GUIDE

VICTORIA ART GALLERY Bridge Street, Bath, BA2 4AT Tel: 01225 477233 Web: victoriagal.org.uk The Victoria Art Gallery is Bath & North East Somerset's most popular art gallery and is situated in the heart of the historic city. Spread over two floors, the council owned collection covers three centuries of British paintings and sculptures, from Gainsborough to Constable to Sickert and Turner. Marvel at the display of 1,500 decorative art treasures, including glittering Bohemian glass and ceramics. Browse the collection of Bath images in the first floor drawer units, relax with a cup of coffee in the beautiful upstairs rotunda. There is also a lovely book, card and gift shop and there are often exhibition works of art for sale. There is an exciting temporary exhibition programme, including national touring exhibitions and major retrospectives plus school holiday activities and workshops. Upcoming exhibitions include works by Kenneth Armitage, Peter Brown, Chalkie Davies, John Eaves, Howard Hodgkin and Kaffe Fassett. The permanent collection is free of charge. The gallery is open daily from 10.30am – 5pm, including bank holidays.

WILTSHIRE MUSEUM 41 Long Street, Devizes, SN10 1NS Tel: 01380 727369 Web: wiltshiremuseum.org.uk Wiltshire Museum is just two minutes from the Market Place in Devizes and has an international reputation attracting visitors from all over the world. The archaeology collections, among the finest in Britain, present 500,000 years of Wiltshire’s Story. The award-winning displays feature gold from the time of Stonehenge, worn by

the people who worshipped inside the stone circle. It’s also a great place to visit with children as every gallery has at least one interactive activity to enjoy; including costumes and the chance to grind wheat using quern-stones. The family exhibition Fantastic Fossils is now open until early 2017. Work is also underway to build a First World War dug-out ready for a special exhibition focusing on the Battle of the Somme, which will run until November 2016. Opening times: Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday noon – 4pm. Admission: adults £5.50, concessions £4.50. Children under 16 go free (excluding school and organised groups).

BRADFORD ON AVON MUSEUM The Library, Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1BY Tel: 01225 863280 Web: bradfordonavonmuseum.co.uk

Bradford on Avon is a beautiful market town of Saxon, Medieval and Georgian buildings, only eight miles away from Bath. Bradford’s small volunteer-run museum provides a background to the rich archaeology and history of the town and its surrounding villages, from Jurassic fossils, remains of its Roman beginnings, memories of an industrial past, up to recent times. Pride of place is given to a complete old chemist shop from the town that was relocated when it closed. The pharmacists kept all the old furnishings and glittering bottles of colourful medicines with their Latin labels. During August the museum's Millennium Embroidery will be on show. Open: 10.30am – 12.30pm and 2 – 4pm Wednesday to Saturday, 2 – 4pm on Sunday and August bank holiday. Admission is free. 80 TheBATHMagazine

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BEHIND CLOSED WARDROBE DOORS

Jessica Hope delves deep into the archives of the Fashion Museum’s incredible collection on a backstage tour

way from the glass cabinets of the Fashion Museum’s displays are thousands of items hidden away from public view. Nonetheless, in order to make these pieces more accessible to everyone, the museum is now allowing small groups of the public exclusive access to go behind the scenes and see these exquisite items for themselves. From beautifully detailed Jacobean gloves to a dress worn by Queen Victoria; Regency waistcoats from the time of Jane Austen to a couture jacket worn by Vivien Leigh, the Fashion Museum in Bath has an extraordinarily vast collection at its fingertips. Holding over 100,000 items of clothing and accessories in its archives, the museum is considered to be in the top 10 fashion museums in the world. Opened in 1963, its collection demonstrates the diverse nature of fashion and people’s attitudes towards clothing over the centuries. And while you can wander around the latest exhibition – A History of Fashion in 100 Objects – the museum is also offering a special glimpse into what goes on

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behind the scenes in the archives. Backstage tours are available to groups of up to four, in which you are taken around the archives by one of the museum’s experts and shown some of the fashionable delights that are kept behind closed doors. I was lucky enough to be taken around the archives by Rosemary Harden, the museum’s curator, on a recent visit. Here I reveal just some of the wonders you will witness on one of the tours . . . After arriving at the museum and being greeted by your tour guide, you are taken through a side door, which isn’t open to the public. First stop is what used to be the flat of the museum’s caretaker in the 1960s –

you even pass the ornate doorbell at the bottom of the stairs that the museum’s workers would have once used to summon the caretaker. This flat is now one of the numerous storage areas, with every shelf, corner and box being used to house items in the collection. As Rosemary opened the tall doors to one of the storerooms, a musty smell instantly surrounded us – that kind of old smell that makes historians such as myself excited in anticipation at the treasures we are about to be presented with. As I turned around, boxes containing delicate handmade gloves dating from the 17th century and rails of 18th century waistcoats encircled us. With great care Rosemary took one of the “boxes of delight”, as she called them, and opened it to display a pair of gloves dating from the 1660s – it was just like excitedly unwrapping a present at Christmas as a child. There, under the layers of material protecting it, was a beautiful pair of cream gloves with delicate green stitching running along each seam. You could see the shape of each individual finger, which would have been carefully cut and sewn to fit

FASHION FORWARD: main image, 18th century men’s waistcoats covered in protective material with their reference cards Inset, a printed paper fan with Japanese figures in a landscape, dating from the 1880s Opposite page, clockwise from top, a garment being carefully handled, waistcoats dating from the time of Jane Austen, the museum’s experts taking a close look at a pair of centuries old gloves, and just some of the beautiful shoes in the archive

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BACKSTAGE | TOUR

the owner’s hands at the time. The gloves were so elegant and delicate – it was extraordinary to be able to see them up so close. Items such as these don’t only show how people once wore items of clothing, but by studying the small and intricate stitches and design they also reveal how they were so carefully made. This is true craftsmanship at its finest. As we turned to the waistcoats, all lined up with precision on the rail, the fine metal threads adorning each item sparkled in the light. Each waistcoat hangs on a specific style of coat hanger. Rosemary tells me the museum has around 10 different types of coat hanger so that they can find the right style to suit each item as if a piece is hung on the wrong kind of hanger, it risks changing the shape of the material and permanently damaging it. Preserving these rare items is at the forefront of what Rosemary and her colleagues strive to do at the museum. Protecting centuries-old clothing is a challenging task and minimising the risk of damage is fundamental every time the employees handle such items. There are four key areas that the museum considers vital to monitor in order to conserve the clothing – light, relative humidity (they use thermal hydrographs in each storeroom to monitor this), pests (such as moths and beetles) and handling (gloves are a necessity). On entering the next storeroom, I walked down the aisle and found myself in a world of

deep burgundy velvet, gold sequins, silver metal thread, pale pink silks, feathers and an abundance of beads. I was well and truly transported to the 1920s. No two items were the same, and each piece oozed elegance and style. It was a feast for the eyes. And while you would assume that the museum only holds couture and designer pieces, the collection does in fact include items from department stores from the 20th century. This makes the collection even more significant, as it charts the diversity of fashion over the years and allows us to observe how the top designers of the day influenced fashion on the high street. After delving into the hat boxes of couture items from the 20th century by the likes of Dior, and walking through the shoe collection from the 1930s, we came to a storeroom filled with rails of menswear from the floor to the high ceiling. In here are kept the enormous collections of clothes worn by fashion enthusiast Mark Read and art historian Sir Roy Strong – two men whose wardrobes epitomise modern fashion. After moving through the backstairs, adorned by vintage covers of Vogue, we came to the final storeroom on our tour. Large boxes of Victorian dresses and 18th century men’s jackets on hangers, covered in protective material, filled the room. Every item in the collection has a clear photograph, name and reference number attached to it, and this

reference system is fundamental for recording the museum’s catalogue of items. Every Thursday the museum allows visitors to book a space in the Study Facilities room where you can choose items from the archives and have them brought to you to see them up close. The archives are regularly used by costume designers in theatre, film and television for inspiration for their designs and to make sure they are creating the most authentic pieces possible. You don’t have to be a student or academic to book an appointment. To book email: fashion_enquiries@bathnes.gov.uk. This is a very popular service, so it is recommended you book well in advance. Backstage tours are advertised online by the Fashion Museum and Bath Box Office (bathboxoffice.org.uk), although private tours can be arranged at a time to suit visitors by emailing: fashion_enquiries@bathnes.gov.uk. There is a maximum capacity of four people per tour, and it lasts approximately an hour. Tickets are £8 per person. Attendees must be comfortable climbing stairs as there is no disabled access. To find out more, visit: fashionmuseum.co.uk or call 01225 477789. A History of Fashion in 100 Objects is on display until 1 January 2019. Admission to the museum is £8.75 for an adult, £7.75 for concessions, £6.75 for children, and free for Discovery Card holders. n Follow Jessica Hope on Twitter: @J_K_Hope.

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HEALTH | BEAUTY

PURE & SIMPLE HOW TO AVOID THE BADDIES LURKING IN YOUR MAKE-UP BAG AND BATHROOM

hen shopping for food we’ve learned to read labels and look out for unwelcome and unhealthy ingredients. But do we do the same when we’re buying health and beauty products, or do we just lather on the creams and lotions and blithely hope for the best? If you’ve ever had a bad reaction to a skin product, it might be worth swotting up on some of those much-used ingredients and finding out what possible adverse effects they can have on sensitive skin. With as many as one in 12 adults and one in five children suffering from eczema, looking at the skin products you’re using may be just as useful as looking at the contents of your larder. Here are some of those potential bad boys: MINERAL OIL This is used as an emollient, giving slip and slide to creams. But it is in fact a bi-product of petroleum oil. The skin does not absorb this well as it tends to sit on the skin, blocking rather than nourishing or hydrating the skin. Spots can be side effects as bacteria is trapped next to the skin. Natural products such as nut butter would be better. PARABENS These are chemical preservatives used in many products to stop them going bad. So if you are going paraben free you will need to bear in mind that the products will have a shorter shelflife. Products that include methylparaben, butylparaben, propylparaben, isobutylparaben, ethylparaben, and polyparaben contain parabens. There are fears that ingesting and applying to the skin could be linked to some cancers. SODIUM LAURYL SULPHATES (SLS) This is a detergent commonly used to make foam in products sich as bubble baths and toothpaste. It can dry the skin out, causing irritation and, in some people, eczema. LANOLIN Derived from sheep’s wool – but although that is natural, it can cause an allergic reaction, or eczema. It’s often found in lip balms. Look instead for lip balms which use vegetable oils. METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE (OR MI) An artificial preservative – found in many skin products including baby wipes – which may cause adverse reaction such as eczema. ARTIFICIAL FRAGRANCE AND COLOUR More commonly used ingredients which are not actually necessary but generally included to make products more appealing. But both can be harmful to sensitive skin.

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NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL The Natural Spa Factory, a Bath based beauty company which specialises in using natural ingredients, has re-packaged its Capsule Collection. It boasts that its range is: paraben, SLS, MI and MCI free, suitable for male and females, all skin types and is naturally antibacterial and anti-viral. Tweaks have been made to improve the collection, such as using violet glass in some bottles to offer protection against the harmful effects of light, prolonging the products’ life and potency. The rose honey cleanser and day cream are encased in airless pumps, without dip tubes, the evacuation of the product is almost 100%, it’s controlled and is more hygienic, with no contamination from greasy fingers or water vapour. Here are some of the goodies used in the collection: the body cream is rich in almond oil and Vitamin E and regular application can protect the skin from oxidative stress and UV sun damage. Jojoba oil is also rich in vitamin E and B - helping damage control and skin repair, perfect to soothe sunburn.

Green tea extract has a strong antioxidant effect that protects the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals. It contains methylxanthines that stimulates skin microcirculation and therefore positively influence the tone and health of the skin. Witch hazel is a natural astringent, removing grime and shrinking pores. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory, calming spots or acne. Jasmine oil has antiseptic, antibacterial, and antiviral properties from compounds such asbenzaldehyde, benzoic acid, and benzyl benzoate. Coconut oil is also rich in vitamin E, as well as proteins, essential for cellular health and tissue repair. Typical prices are: tea tree, willow leaf and menthol face mask for oily skin, £6, moisturiser, 50ml, £25. Visit the online shop: naturalspafactory.com. ASK THE EXPERTS: we’re lucky in Bath to have so many proponents of natural skin care. Staﬀ at Neal’s Yard Remedies are very helpful and its products are natural and organic. Beautician Helen Mulloy Reid at Bare Beauty salon in Combe Down is also well versed in which products are gentle on the skin and sourced from pure ingredients. Her stockists include organic skin care from Suti and Estelle and Thild.

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Removal of moles, skin tags, cysts and other skin lesions

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ADVERTORIAL | FEATURE

WHEN THE CLOCK STRIKES 10 Join the celebrations for Dorothy House Hospice Care’s 40th birthday this year by raising money and taking part in a Guinness Book of World Records attempt

y moonlight on Saturday 10 September, something magical will happen. On the stroke of 10pm, more than 1,000 women from across the region will set out on an 8km trek through the heart of Bath to raise funds for Dorothy House Hospice Care. One of our biggest fundraisers and a hugely popular event, the Midnight Walk hosted 1,000 entrants last year and raised over £120,000 towards continuing to support people with lifelimiting illnesses. This year, we’re hoping to break that record and another – for the Guinness Book of World Records. We are delighted to announce our aim to smash the current world record for the largest gathering of people wearing boas. Achieving this record will not only put a huge plume of feathers on the world record’s map – but it will also call attention to the innovative fundraising work of Dorothy House Hospice Care. Now, the event has undergone a makeover; this year we start at 10pm and Midnight has become Moonlight so, ladies, you can all get to bed a bit earlier. One of last year’s entrants, Layla Hill, said: “I want to pass on our thanks to all the organisers – we had a wonderful night. The atmosphere was brilliant and we had such fun in our outfits. It

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touched us all to be part of such a worthwhile event.” Another walker, Portia, said: “The atmosphere was buzzing. After 14,607 steps, I crossed the finish line to a huge applause and a Danish pastry! Any ladies thinking of supporting Dorothy House need look no further and sign up for this lively event – what an achievement and a great way of raising funds for such a brilliant charity.” Angie Jones-Moore is looking forward to the Moonlight Walk. She said: “I am a first time walker. My dad died from cancer almost four years ago, but it still seems like yesterday. My mum found the advice and support she got from Dorothy House really valuable. I am walking on my own at the moment, but I intend to persuade several friends to join me.” Do come and join Angie. The Moonlight Walk is open to women aged 14 or over on Saturday 10 September. Registration costs £17 and walkers are requested to pledge an additional minimum £40 sponsorship or the same amount in lieu of sponsorship. To register, or for more information, visit: bathmoonlightwalk.org.uk To find out more about Dorothy House Hospice Care, call: 01225 721480 or visit: dorothyhouse.org.uk. n

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FORTY YEARS OF CARING Dorothy House Hospice Care is marking its 40th anniversary of caring for people with life limiting conditions Georgette McCready reports on the past, present and projected future of the charity

he more you look at the work done by Dorothy House Hospice Care, the more you find out about the remarkable work this local charity has achieved over its four decades of caring for people. For 40 years Dorothy House has been synonymous with care. Most of us have known someone who has been looked after by the charity in the last months of their lives, either at the hospice itself or in their own home. The institution is much, much more than the hospice on the hill in the Wiltshire village of Winsley. It cares for 3,000 patients and their families every year – around 85 per cent of its nursing being done in the community. The charity has grown enormously since it was founded in Bath in 1976 by Prue Dufour. It currently receives 150 referrals a month, cares for ten inpatients at a time, either in the last weeks of their lives or as respite, as well as numerous day patients at its centres in Winsley, Trowbridge and Peasedown. One wonders what Prue Dufour would think to see her legacy grow and flourish to the multi-million pound organisation it is today. It costs £23,000 a day to run. It’s perhaps no surprise then to find that charismatic frontman, chief executive John Davies unapologetically talks about it as a business. He says: “Of course it has to be run as a business. Our spending has to be justified and governed. Above all it has to be sustainable. After all we can’t promise people care in six months’ time but find ourselves unable to pay our staff – our medical staff are, understandably for their specialist skills, our biggest expense.” John has a background in the army and business but even he admits: “I’ve cried more tears in this job than any other that I’ve done.” And that’s simply because so much emotion is contained within the walls of the hospice and of 90 TheBATHMagazine

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the enormity of the human emotions involved in caring for adults, of all ages, their family and friends. The Winsley site is set in beautiful gardens with far reaching views which can be enjoyed from many windows. The setting brings its own sense of tranquility and the staff do their utmost to bring feelings of safety, trust and peace to their patients and visitors. In the ten-bed unit where people come for respite or to spend their last days, nothing is too much trouble. Family members and pets come and go as the patients please, they choose what they fancy to eat and there are a host of things to do that bring a feeling of normality. The day I visit a family with children have set up a picnic on the lawns to create a memory to cherish, while, on a table in the conservatory, someone is patiently working their way through a 1,000 piece jigsaw. Dr Nigel Rawlinson has come to Dorothy House as a doctor of palliative care, from the Bristol Royal Infirmary. He says: “This is quite different from a hospital where, understandably, staff are busy treating many patients. Here is such a contrast. While we manage people’s pain we also give them a peaceful haven. When a patient is being quietly cared for there is time for one-to-one humanity. And that gives people time to talk to one another in that very human way.” Along with the attention to medical care there are other facilities – some of them surprising – like a gym, where physiotherapy sessions help people keep active. There’s a deluxe shower room in which a wheelchair can be accommodated, giving people the freedom and pleasure of a hot shower that they might not otherwise be able to manage at home. An art room holds regular sessions in which making something becomes a kind of therapy, with busy hands soothing the mind. Day visitors and nursing staff come in and

out. The 24-hour a day advice line is run from here, giving access to expert medical advice. One of the latest welcome developments is that patients’ notes can be summoned on-screen when required so all the different agencies working with the individual can see what their needs have been. In the past, patients have needed to tell their stories to many different people, so this new care package, called Your Care Your Way, provides welcome joined up, integrated communication. Dorothy House is pioneering education too. This ranges from simple, practical matters, such as teaching bereaved fathers how to cook for their families, helping teachers who are working with children whose parents are living with life limiting conditions and training GPs and healthcare professionals. You cannot look at the work of this amazing orginisation without thinking about the financial burden of treating so many people free at the point of contact. Nobody is means tested, nobody is charged and there are no time limits. John opens the door on his fundraising team’s office and tells me cheerfully that this department is challenged to raise £4.3m this year. That’s an awful lot of coffee mornings, sponsored walks and raffles. But on top of these community events there are legacies from

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CHARITY | HEROES

CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE: main picture, the tranquil setting at Winsley in Wiltshire for Dorothy House Hospice Care, inset, chief executive John Davies This page, Princess Anne has long been a supporter of the charity, centre founder Prue Dufour and volunteers at a fundraising garden fête

grateful families, sponsorship by local businesses and, not least, by the charity’s 29 shops, which John would like to see get even stronger. “I’d like them to be the John Lewis of charity shops.” He is quick to point out that Dorothy House’s services help ease the burden on the NHS. Every night a patient spends in a bed at the hospice is calculated at around £500, while that same patient in a ward at the Royal United Hospital would cost the NHS £1,200 – £1,600 a day. John also wants it put on the record that the RUH in Bath has been awarded outstanding status for its end-of-life care in a Care Quality Commission inspection. For every £1 the State gives Dorothy House, it needs to raise £4 to

continue to care for people across 700 square miles of Bath, Wiltshire and Somerset. Dorothy House is currently bidding for a major contract with Bath & North East Somerset Council which will make its services secure for another decade. Meanwhile, John is planning new strategies and campaigns, and, like any good leader, he has enormous respect for the people who make up the Dorothy House family, from the inhouse medical staff and the community carers to the dozens of volunteers who give up their time to work in the charity shops, befriend the bereaved in their homes or tend the hospice headquarters gardens. As we leave the well tended gardens

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John says: “Marjorie Coulthard was a physiotherapist working for Prue when she ran the hospice. I’m very proud, and grateful, to Marjorie and her husband Bob who run our 17-strong volunteer gardening team. We really couldn’t do what we do without our volunteers.” If you have a skill, such as retail management or coding that you’re able to lend Dorothy House as a volunteer, the charity would be happy to hear from you. It would also like to hear from anyone who would like to join the Pioneers Fund in its bid to raise £700,000 – that’s £1,000 for each of the hospice’s 700 sqaure miles. Visit: dorothyhouse.org.uk or ask a member of staff in any of its shops. n

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THE | WALK

BY THE WATERS

Andrew Swift charts a walk which gives us the chance to enjoy Bath’s canal and river network

he stretch of the River Avon below Pulteney Bridge has long been regarded as one of the jewels in Bath’s crown. Carry on downstream, though, or head up past Pulteney Bridge, and it is a different story – unloved or inaccessible, the river has for too long been something the city has chosen to turn its back on. Attitudes are slowly changing, and a Water Space Study, spearheaded by B&NES council, is looking at ways to revitalise Bath’s canal and river network. Already, the canal towpath east of Sydney Gardens has been upgraded, and further projects are planned. This month’s walk is a riverbank and towpath stroll, taking in the familiar and the unfamiliar, and demonstrating how much scenic variety can be found along Bath’s waterways. There is plenty of history, as well as wildlife habitats, monumental civil engineering – and a visit to some lost pleasure gardens. We start at the back of Pulteney Bridge – the side few visitors see – before heading past the site of Bath’s first pleasure gardens. Spring Gardens opened in 1735 and, until Pulteney Bridge was completed in 1774, were reached by ferry. They eventually closed in 1798. From there we head past North Parade Bridge, built of iron in 1836 and clad in stone in 1936, and St James’s Bridge, over which the first train linking London with Bath rumbled in 1841. We then join the canal to climb past the flight of six locks that raise it almost 20 metres. Beside the bottom lock is the old Thimble Mill which once pumped water halfway up the flight. Next comes Deep Lock, at 5.9 metres the second deepest on the canal network. It replaced 92 TheBATHMagazine

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two locks demolished when Rossiter Road was built in the 1970s. Beside the fourth lock is the chimney of another pumping station. This pumped water to the top of the flight, replenishing water lost when boats travelled through the locks. After going through a tunnel with the former offices of the canal company above it, the canal passes through Sydney Gardens in a cutting crossed by two Chinese-style bridges. Above the portals of the tunnels flanking the gardens are the carved heads of Sabrina, Spirit of the Severn, and Old Father Thames, symbolising the union of the two rivers. Leaving the second tunnel, the view of Solsbury Hill opens up ahead. Originally, the route of the canal lay further to the west, curving almost as far as the houses on the far side of the railway. It was rerouted when the railway was built. After passing the site of one of Bath’s lost stations – Hampton Row Halt, opened in 1907 and closed ten years later – we pass the site of Cremorne Pleasure Gardens, also known as the Folly, whose chequered career was brought to an end by a stray German bomb in 1942. Then it’s back across the river, via a concrete bridge replacing the original suspension bridge of 1830, to the site of Grosvenor Pleasure Gardens, an enormously ambitious enterprise which opened – although far from ready – in 1792, and closed, after a series of crises, less than ten years later. From here, we follow a tree-lined riverside walk – one of Bath’s best-kept secrets – with views across to Cleveland Pools, the country’s only surviving Georgian lido, which opened in 1817, closed in 1984, but is finally being

brought back to life. Just beyond it lies the Victorian Boating Station, still very much in business. From there, we have to turn away from the river, as, for the last two-thirds of a mile to just above Pulteney Bridge, its banks are in private hands. An anticlimax perhaps, but with plenty of pubs and cafés to drop into on the way. DIRECTIONS Heading north along Walcot Street. After passing the Hilton Hotel, turn right through the Cattle Market car park. Cross and turn right at the bottom, before going down steps and continuing along the riverside walkway. After climbing a flight of steps, carry on and turn left. After crossing Pulteney Bridge, cross and turn right down steps to the riverside walk. Spring Gardens stood where the Beazer Maze and the north end of the Recreation Ground are. After going under North Parade Bridge, look across to the end of South Parade – where steps once led down to a ferry – and St John’s Roman Catholic church, whose spire is home to peregrine falcons. After crossing the canal, turn left along the towpath. After going under two road bridges, climb the steps, cross the canal via the pavement and continue along the towpath on the other side. After 300m, carry on across a road, but, at the next road bridge, climb steps, turn right and cross the zebra crossing before continuing along the right bank of the canal. Follow the towpath as it crosses the canal at the back of the old canal company offices and go through a tunnel to emerge into Sydney Gardens. Having gone through another tunnel,

FAMILIAR AND UNFAMILIAR: main picture, the back end of Pulteney Bridge – its least photographed side Opposite, Old Father Thames above a tunnel in Sydney Gardens, Widcombe Locks and Thimble Mill in 1910 and the original suspension bridge at Grosvenor

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THE | WALK

carry on along the towpath with the railway below you on the left. The footbridge crossing the line 350m along marks the site of Hampton Row Halt. After another 50m, turn left down a path. A spring running under the path, 200m on, marks the eastern boundary of Cremorne Pleasure Gardens, which stood on the right-hand side of the path. All that now survives are bits of masonry and steps leading into the undergrowth. Turn left under the railway and, after crossing the river, turn left, go through a gate and turn left down steps to the riverside path. Grosvenor Pleasure Gardens covered the whole of the area, stretching the length of Grosvenor Place, the Georgian terrace over to your right. After 200m,

you pass the site of the swimming pool which stood at the western end of the gardens, its site now marked by willows and nettles. A little further on, look out for Cleveland Pools – the curved building with a row of doorways, largely hidden by horse chestnuts, on the opposite bank. Just past it is the Boating Station, after which, when the path forks, you need to bear right to head up to Kensington Meadows. As you bear diagonally left to follow a faint path across the grass, you will see Kensington Chapel – now converted to housing – in the row of buildings to your left. Go through a gap in the fence to the right of some gates, bear left, head up to the London Road and turn left to return to the city centre. n

FACT FILE ■ Length of walk: four miles ■ Approximate time: 2 hours ■ For more on canal and river: Queen of Waters by Kirsten Elliott, published by Akeman Press, Cleveland Pools: clevelandpools.org.uk. Water Space Study: bathnes.gov.uk/riverandcanal

■ Level of challenge: some steps, but otherwise straightforward

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PRIDE IN THEIR WORK The team of master craftsmen at Hawker Joinery are using traditional joinery to keep Bath’s buildings beautiful for future generations

top and consider how many wooden sash windows and door frames there are in Georgian Bath and you begin to fathom how busy the skilled craftsmen of the 18th century must have been to meet demand. Centuries on and you shouldn’t be able to uncover any off-the-shelf UPVC window in any of our city’s fine buildings. Which means that somewhere there are teams of experts in joinery on a rolling programme of repair and replacement, ensuring happy householders and happy architectural historians too. One of Bath’s oldest workshops has a remarkable tale to tell of a marriage between those traditional and particular skills and contemporary business models. Hawker Joinery, which runs from a busy site on the edge of the countryside at Northend, was established in 1919 and owned until recently by the Hawker family. In its early days Mr FW Hawker’s joinery workshop made wooden cabins for the cranes being built for dockyards all over the world by Stothert and Pitt. In the decades that followed Hawkers of Bath established a reputation that extended to projects at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and Bath Abbey. But despite being held in high regard, the company could have been described as behind the times in many aspects. A loyal, long-serving workforce was in need of fresh motivation. A new buyer was found for the 94 TheBATHMagazine

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company and, in the months that have followed, the fortunes of Hawker Joinery have turned around. Long serving production director David Newman and sales director, Nigel Hodges, both master joiners, were joined by commercial director Mitchell Thomas, a twentysomething joiner with experience in estimating for joinery projects. Out went piles of paperwork, in came new computers to replace the single PC and in came systems and procedures to establish efficient and transparent work flow. All 13 staff members can follow the weekly turnover and completion of projects and all are now looking forward to seeing bonuses as a result of that increase in turnover. The order books are looking very healthy, so much so that Hawker Joinery is on the lookout for more skilled joiners and carpenters to recruit. David Newman talks about a recent campaign to take on two new apprentices: “We went to Bath College and told them we were going to run a Hawker’s Got Talent day to find two new apprentices. We took our six shortlist lads for a chat over breakfast at the Fat Friar in Batheaston. We figured that a full English was a good a place to start.” The six students were each presented with a tool bag containing six tools. David, recalling his own days as a junior, said: “I was always taught you only needed six tools to build a wooden house. Then, we looked an exercise that

my colleague Nigel had done as a 15year-old apprentice, to create a wooden frame. We sent the youngsters to the benches, gave them the measurements and they got on with it.” The hawk-eyed veterans were impressed at what the students produced. This practical challenge was followed by a one-to-one chat in which the candidates were invited to bring projects they’d already made. After the day the judges reconvened and each wrote down, in order, the top two candidates they’d like to take on. They were unanimous. And so Alex Frankland and Jack Edwards were taken on to learn in very much a hands-on manner. David said: “We don’t just let them sweep up, we don’t treat them like kids. Instead we give them the chance to prove themselves, we give them a sense of selfbelief. The best pieces of work you’ll find will be those made by an apprentice anxious to prove himself.” Within weeks both apprentices found themselves proud to be carrying out skilled tasks and procedures. Siobhan Moloughney, apprentice development officer at Bath College said: “We were extremely grateful to Hawker Joinery for organising this trial and engaging so creatively with our students. The trial allowed students to work creatively to show off their skills in a working environment. The attention to detail on the day and the preparation that went into it gave the students such a positive learning

MADE TO LAST: main picture, an example of sash windows hand made at Hawker Joinery and installed in many Grade I listed homes in Bath Opposite page, Hawker’s Got Talent students with production director David Newman, including Jack Edwards, left, and Alex Frankland, fifth left, the winning apprentices Far right, an oak bespoke staircase taking shape in the workshop Visit: Hawkerjoinery.co.uk or tel: 01225 858233

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TRADITIONAL | SKILLS

experience. They gained a lot and thoroughly enjoyed the day. I followed up with the candidates after the event and they had plenty of praise for Hawker. David Newman engaged with the students prior to the trial, meeting them and talking about his experience of working with Hawker. This talk also inspired other young carpentry candidates to enter the apprenticeship route. It would be lovely to see more companies offering this sort of presentation and trial, as to see each candidate grow in confidence from start to end was a positive experience and one that should be encouraged by more employers. We have up

to 100 students studying L1, L2 and L3 carpentry at Bath College.” Staff planning meetings at Hawker Joinery are held with all present and all are invited to suggest ways to improve the running of the business. New livery has made everyone prouder of their team work, as they don their logoed shirts. On a tour of the Northend site it’s apparent that there’s a real buzz about the place that’s not simply down to the machine grinding down cuts to make wood chippings for sustainable use by a nearby farmer. It’s not all work and no play as Mitchell explained: “We’ve introduced fish and chip

Friday when we all get lunch together. It’s really popular, as you can imagine.” While the bread and butter of the business is making hard wearing, hand-crafted window and door frames, unusual commissions are also welcomed. Final touches are being put on an oak staircase, whose curves have been designed to fit neatly into a renovated historic cottage. The latest project is constructing an oldfashioned pub front and sweet shop to be used in a care home and enjoyed for nostalgic and therapeutic use by the elderly residents. As David observed, looking at the designs on paper: “We really enjoy a challenge like this.” n

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CITY | INTERIORS

LONDON CALLING Bath interior designer Clair Strong previews a selection of events and shows at next month’s spectacular London Design Festival

FREE THE MIND: Liquid Marble by Mathieu Lehanneur. All images courtesy of London Design Festival 2016, 17 – 25 September. Visit: londondesignfestival.co.uk

ondon is considered by many to be the creative capital of the world. So it makes sense that it is here that thousands of people gather every year to celebrate the power and impact of design. Over nine days – from Saturday 17 to Sunday 25 September – more than 400 events will take place all over the city at the London Design Festival. LDF has something for everyone – even the kids. From interactive installations to workshops, product launches and exhibitions, London becomes an even more creative and inspiring place to be. Now in its 14th year, LDF has grown to become one of the biggest events in the design calendar. With hundreds of events planned, it would be impossible to list them all, so here is just a very small selection of what you can expect from next month’s festival.

LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL: THE SHOWS Also known as Design Destinations, there are five shows that take place across London every year; London Design Fair, Focus/16, Design Junction, Decorex International, and 100% Design. They are arguably the biggest draw of London Design Festival, boasting crowds in the tens of thousands every year. See innovative work, creative inventions and new products from local and international designers. I am a devoted attendee of all the shows; I go to source new products and materials and preview upcoming trends. It’s always hugely inspiring. This year, expect an action-packed programme of events, including product launches, demonstrations, workshops, panels 96 TheBATHMagazine

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and Q&As. For a full list of exhibitors and events, check out the relevant show’s website.

LANDMARK PROJECT: THE SMILE The interactive installations are always an exciting part of LDF. Previous years have seen the Timber Wave, Endless Stair and the Wish List but this year, it’s all about The Smile. This urban installation was created by Alison Brooks Architects in collaboration with the American Hardwood Export Council, Arup, Merk and LDF. And it can be found on the Rootstein Hopkins Parade Ground in Chelsea. The Smile is a structure to be inhabited. Its unique shape – a long, upside down arc – creates an unfamiliar internal space to explore. The makers describe is as ‘an undulating environment, something between a landscape, an adventure playground, a bridge and a diving board’. With each end open to the air, it’s not just an internal space; The Smile also offers a new way of looking at the city. This installation is ground-breaking in a number of ways, not least because it is the first structure of its kind to be made of timber.

LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL AT THE V&A It’s only natural that the world’s leading museum of art and design curates its own selection of events for London Design Festival. As you might expect from the Victoria and Albert Museum, the programme is always diverse, creative and deeply inspiring. This year is no different. Installations for 2016 include The Green Room; a time-based mechanical installation that encourages visitor interaction, and Foil; a

mesmerising display of reflected light. The museum also offers a full schedule of lunchtime lectures, gallery talks, hands-on workshops and provocative debates. At the end of your visit, make a stop in the museum gift shop for the designer souvenirs commissioned exclusively for London Design Festival. Leading architects and designers have created their own souvenirs of London and the collectable objects are available to buy during LDF only. For a detailed overview of the full range of events taking place at the V&A, take a peek at the museum’s website.

BRIXTON DESIGN TRAIL New for 2016, Brixton will launch as LDF’s latest Design District. Under the distinctly rock ‘n’ roll theme of Rebel Rebel, Brixton Design Trail seeks to engage the local community with a series of installations, exhibitions and events. The theme pays homage to Brixton-born David Bowie; a design icon and creative force. Identifying with Bowie’s enduring spirit; Brixton Design Trail pushes the boundaries, giving resident artists, designers and organisations a platform to express their ideas. I hope this, admittedly brief, preview inspires you to pay a visit to London Design Festival this year. It’s hard to do this incredible event justice but I can assure you it is worth it. See you there! n London Design Festival, 17 – 25 September at various venues across London. Many events are free to attend. Ticketed events are managed by the host venue. Clair Strong Interior Design is a small, friendly, creative business based in London and Bath. Visit: clairstrong.co.uk.

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CITY | INTERIORS

DOORS OF PERCEPTION: enter Foil by Benjamin Hubert and Braun for the V&A

FORM AND COLOUR: Above, poured bowls by Troels Flensted at Tent London Below, the Pleasure Garden at Black Cultural Archives and right, Sagal furniture at 100% Design

ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND: you’ll find Alison Brooks Architects’ timber structure, The Smile in Chelsea on Rootstein Hopkins Parade Ground

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PROPERTY | MARKET

A GRAND

GESTURE

A pair of adjoining Georgian townhouses in one of Bath’s finest crescents provides a fantastic opportunity for its new owner to embrace the contemporary decor or revert to a more historic mood

hen asked the famous Through the Keyhole question: ‘Who lives in a house like this?’ the answer, in the case of this dazzler of a Bath home, is clearly someone with a sense of high drama and chutzpah. Take two iconic Georgian crescent townhouses, combine them into one and add some bold architectural moves, some confidently contemporary gestures and you’ve got something jawdroppingly special. Just on to the market – and not around for long we’ll wager – is 7 and 8 Lansdown Crescent, giving buyers a unique opportunity to own 14,500 square feet of prime Bath property. This crescent – often known as ‘the one with the sheep’ – has fantastic views down over the lawns at the front of the houses and across the glorious 98 TheBATHMagazine

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panorama of the city beneath. The crescent was built at the end of the 18th century to plans by John Palmer and astronomer Henry Lawson moved his observatory on to the roof of Number 7. Today, where Lawson’s telescopes once stood is now a second attic storey. The night sky in Bath may not be ideal for star gazing these days, due to light pollution, but you’d be hard put to better these views. The neighbouring houses became one home late in the 19th century, merged by owner Sir Francis Younghusband and are currently configured as one home from the first floor up, with separate basement and ground floor apartments. The new owners will also take possession of a two bedroom coach house and generous sized walled gardens. There are some mature trees and borders but enough of a blank

canvas to bring out your inner Monty Don and dream up some grand planting schemes. Let’s slip inside, behind the elegant classical exterior. If Andy Warhol went into interior design this is what he might have done, using the imposing space of the two buildings and injecting blasts of bold colour – with walls in pink and purple a red stair carpet and architectural detail picked out in bright whites. For those of a more traditional bent there’s always the option to replace the pop art decor with something more understated by Messrs Farrow & Ball. There’s a simply huge drawing room on the first floor – more than 40 feet from windows to windows – which runs from the back of the property right through to the front, the whole space filled with natural light. Everything is on a grand scale, including the fireplace

PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE: Above left the classical exterior of 7/8 Lansdown Crescent belies its contemporary interior This page, natural light floods every room and the original architectural features have been lovingly picked out Next page: spectacular far reaching views across Bath from the 4th floor and the walled gardens are among the largest of their kind in Bath

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which is at least seven feet high. This breathtaking sense of space is continued through into the dining room and adjacent kitchen/breakfast room. On paper the house has five bedrooms, but in the flesh, it’s so much more than that. Up on the second floor there’s a dramatic gallery room which is two storeys in height, has four front facing windows to make the most of the views and light, a vaulted ceiling and a spiral staircase to the third floor. An artist would surely want to take on this space as a studio, particularly for large scale projects. There are also three more bedrooms and two bathrooms on this floor. The third floor houses the library, another bedroom with en suite bathroom and a fitted dressing room, while upstairs on that extra storey up in the clouds is a vast bedroom with balconies to rear and front. The sense of space throughout the whole property is impressive. The main part of the two houses, its pair of two bedroom apartments on ground floor and basement and its coach house, also with two bedrooms (an ideal dower house for a parent or in-law, as it’s near the main house but completely separate) are on the market through Savills of Bath for offers in the region of a cool £5.75m. n

FACT FILE ■ Location: Lansdown Crescent, Bath ■ Special features: Two adjoining Georgian townhouses, classically proportioned with high ceilings and lots of natural light. There’s an extra attic storey, plus two apartments and a coach house ■ Accommodation: five bedrooms in the main property plus two in each apartment and two in the coach house ■ Guide price: £5.75m ■ Agent: Savills Bath, tel: 01225 474500

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KITCHEN CASE STUDY

FOR A KITCHEN THAT HAS THE WOW FACTOR WHAT THE CLIENTS SAY ABOUT KITCHEN DESIGNER KELLY-MARIE HICKS AT HOMEMAKER BATH “Kelly has been exceptionally helpful in enabling us to achieve our dream kitchen. Her choice of materials, colours and style are spot on. She has been prepared to spend a lot of time, listening to our views and advising us accordingly. Our kitchen, like many in Bath, is in a rather dark basement. We wanted to create a lighter, contemporary room and we are absolutely delighted with the finished product. The fitting team is excellent. Luke, John and electrician Steve went beyond the essential to make things go smoothly and efficiently. We would not hesitate to recommend Kelly at Homemaker Kitchens in Bath. We particularly like the feature shelving, beautiful glass splash backs and the Silestone worktops which create a large amount of worktop space.” A ★★★★★ design service - Mr & Mrs P - Widcombe

HOMEMAKER, 8 Pulteney Terrace, Bath BA2 4HJ. Tel: 01225 481 881 homemakerdesign@btconnect.com BEFORE

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PROPERTY | MARKET

SECRET WALLED GARDENS City or country: these homes on the market are enhanced by beautiful gardens

n invitation to take tea in the garden is a very British way to welcome people to their homes, and offers the chance for the hosts to show off their own little piece of Paradise, often created by dint of long hours spent weeding and cutting. It’s no suprise to find a country home has extensive and delightful gardens, but we’re also impressed at the number of city homes that hide green oases of calm behind their walls. Here are three homes currently on the market, one in the country the other two in Bath, all of which have delightful walled gardens.

THE CITY GARDEN This Georgian townhouse at Belmont in Lansdown is just a short hike on foot from Bath city centre and enjoys far reaching views. It makes for a very practical family-friendly home and, because of its location, there’s not so much call for the taxi of mum and dad to ferry youngsters about to their many social gatherings, as there are bus stops nearby and most of Bath can be reached on foot. The old upstairs-downstairs configuration of rooms has been modernised so on the ground floor the kitchen is at the front of the house, opening via an arch to the dining/family room. A particularly winning feature is 104 TheBATHMagazine

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that one simply opens one of the full height sash windows to step straight out into the garden. And what a lovely garden it is too. It’s over 100 feet long and walled, with views beyond. It’s been well planted with lots of climbers and has been divided into different areas, including a pond. At the far end, away from prying eyes, is a stone terrace from where you’re more likely to hear birdsong than traffic. The house itself has three reception rooms, including a fine first floor drawing room opening into a withdrawing room, five bedrooms, four bathrooms and useful storage in the basement, along with a laundry room and a study. Hamptons is the agent and the guide price is £1.75m. Tel: 01225 220216 to arrange a viewing.

GREEN OASES: above the city garden behind Belmont in Lansdown Left, the first floor drawing room at Belmont enjoys views over its gardens Right, the triple windows overlook the lawns of St James’ Square THE TOWN GARDEN The houses of St James’s Square are in one of the best spots in the city, overlooking their own oasis of green in the railed gardens they share with the birds. This area of the city has a real sense of community and there are shops nearby, while the city centre is less than a 15 minute walk away. Four years ago an entire townhouse, with an east facing garden, was completely overhauled and the end result is a tasteful, spacious home with polished wooden floors, a hand-built kitchen and an enviable library with built-in bookshelves. While this could be occupied by a single family, using all five floors, the lower ground floor could be hived off as a separate, self-contained flat. It has its own front door and is currently configured with a sitting room, two

Opposite page, left, the Italianate dining terrace at St James’s Square and right, the gardens at Summerleaze

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bedrooms, a bathroom and a carefully concealed compact kitchenette behind hinged doors, where one could imagine one’s own Jeeves mxing up some cocktails. Through the street level entrance there’s a big elegantly understated dining room which opens into the kitchen, which comes complete with gas fired Aga. Outside there’s an Italianate dining terrace, with infrared heaters and electricity. The rest of the enclosed garden is a tranquil carefully designed space of gravelled paths, mellow walls and trees for privacy and shade. Back inside, the first floor has the classic Georgian triple windowed drawing room which opens, traditionally for parties and dancing, via

wedding doors into the library. The master suite, of bedroom and palatial bathroom, is on the second floor, while there are two more bedrooms and a bathroom on the top floor. Cobb Farr is the agent and the guide price for this beautifully refurbished townhouse is £2.3m. Tel: 01225 333332 for a viewing. THE COUNTRY GARDEN Summerleaze is a classic country house, detached, full of character and surrounded by big gardens, plus two acres of paddock. It represents a fantastic opportunity for a new owner to stamp their mark on the property, modernise the house and make use of the old stone barn, outbuildings and rural location.

Summerleaze is in East Harptree, five miles from Wells and 15 miles south of Bristol. The house is tucked away down a drive, with views across open countryside. Both the sitting room and the dining room have big fireplaces and along the hall, as you make your way to the private study, are stained glass windows. This is very much a family home, with five good sized bedrooms, two bathrooms and a kitchen/breakfast room. The grounds are a real asset, with an orchard, vegetable garden, a walled garden with lawns and several sheds. The agent is Nash & Co, the guide price is £895,000 and viewings can be arranged, tel: 01225 686158. n

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A GARDEN WITH A MESSAGE Eirlys Penn meets the Bath gardener who won a silver-gilt medal at the recent Hampton Court Palace Flower Show

or chartered landscape architect Emma Bannister, the germ of an idea to design for the world’s largest flower show was sown quite by accident. A contractor had objected to her close-planting on a north Bath project: “After all,” he said sniffily, “it isn’t a show garden.” Still niggled by this remark the next day, Emma raked over it again and again on a drive to London, and then suddenly realised that creating a garden for the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 2016 would provide just the opportunity she had been looking for to help her favoured charity. A year on, with design partner Ben Donadel, she has just won a silver-gilt RHS medal for her efforts. The charity that Emma wanted to help was the National Association for Premenstrual Syndrome (NAPS), the only UK charity representing the interests of PMS sufferers. Emma’s 22year-old daughter, along with an estimated 800,000 women nationwide, has an extreme and debilitating form called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PDD). On the difficult route to diagnosis and beyond, NAPS has represented a lifeline for Emma’s family. But the small charity struggles to raise its profile: hence Emma’s motivation to help in a way that her particular skills allowed, through her first major show garden. It takes a year to bring a plan like this to fruition. Anyone can enter a garden for Hampton Court – in theory – though the reality of the application process demands professional-style layouts and 106 TheBATHMagazine

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3D images, plus the rigorous projectmanagement skills to implement those plans. This effectively rules out most amateur garden designers. As a qualified landscape architect, however, Emma had the skillset and rapidly formulated an idea which the Royal Horticultural Society duly accepted. In Emma’s garden design, Outside Inside, she proposed to include three forms of hazel to represent women, with willow structures exemplifying the hormones involved in ovulation, and an overarching structure depicting the brain and connecting the outer and inner garden areas. The outside portion – with regular native British plants – would illustrate a normal woman’s response to these hormones. Meanwhile, the inside would show a more extreme scenario, when a woman’s mental health can be threatened, and the varieties here would be distortions from the commonly occurring species: a contorted corkscrew hazel, for example, which Emma describes as the poster plant for PMS. An oval path would spiral into the garden, evoking the monthly cycle associated with ovulation, but also taking the visitor on a journey through the tortured process of suffering from and being diagnosed with PDD. To Emma’s delight, the RHS accepted her plan. Next, she had to secure sponsorship. The RHS does not want the embarrassment of 100 square metres of empty space at a flagship event so needs to know that exhibitors will deliver. Emma garnered backers and suppliers, in particular Monro Consulting and Holistic Services Insurance. The next hurdle was begging

and borrowing landscaping and plants, not least locating the specimen corkscrew hazel (corylus avellana Contorta) for the heart of the garden. The whole project almost foundered when Emma had problems finding a sufficiently robust bent steel framework to support her willow screens. Fortunately, a Harrod Horticultural catalogue happened to land on her desk, and the fruit cage manufacturer’s bespoke division saved the day. The environment from mid-June is a world away from the eventual show, full of noise and earth-moving equipment. To the thrum and fumes of diesel generators (there’s no power on site – it’s a field), Emma and her contractors and volunteers worked the long daylight midsummer hours, 7.30am to dusk. The garden’s main structural elements came from Musgrove Willows on the Somerset Levels (who supply the National Trust, Natural England and the RSPB), shaped into the bespoke structures by Jay Davey. Jay used 100 ‘wads’ (or bundles) of willow for the garden structures which took him a

MEDAL WINNER: main picture, The Inside Outside charity garden designed by Emma Bannister in situ at Hampton Court Palace Inset, looking up through the Somerset grown willow Opposite page, a delighted Emma shortly after winning her silvergilt medal, inside the structure and native British plants used in the garden PICTURES: Joe Penn

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month to complete and install, including five 12-hour days on site. Other suppliers brought in draining resin paths (Gaysha Surfacing), cobbles (Silversland Stone), bark, mulch and turf (Rolawn) and a luxury garden building (Inovar). Volunteers from Work and Retrain as a Gardener Scheme (WRAGS) planted naturally occurring species in the outer garden, such as 32 established hazels, 16 young coppiced hazels (lent by Practicality Brown), 800 ferns including lady fern, common polypody and hart’s tongue fern, and hundreds of wildflowers including wild carrot, tufted hair grass and honesty. When the wrong type of carrot showed up (a cultivar) it had to go back. And Emma

discovered during the show that she had mistakenly included a weed, thinking it was another plant. But as press day dawned on Monday 4 July, not a leaf was out of place. Just putting together a successful show garden takes deep horticultural knowledge, a design eye, project management know-how, grit and a willingness to take risks. To then win a medal at Hampton Court is a pinnacle of achievement for any ambitious career gardener. To top it off, the designer also requires a big dollop of showmanship for the event itself, dealing with press, public and perennial celebrities. Emma seems to thrive on it. BBC2 Gardeners’ World interviewed her for its Hampton Court special and as did Radio 4’s

Woman’s Hour, which has done much to spread the word about the debilitating effects of PMS and the support that is now available. Would she do it again? Right now, Emma’s very tired. The exhausting build and week-long event required enormous energy reserves. At the time of writing she was still taking the garden apart. But there’s a twinkle in Emma’s eye as she describes the excitement of the build coming together, the esprit de corps among contractors, volunteers and fellow show-gardeners, then the buzz of winning silver-gilt and all the ensuing publicity, including an endorsement from Sarah Raven. Better watch this space. n To find out more visit: pms.org.uk, Emma Bannister: ebannlandscape.com.

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JUDGEMENT DAYS

Jane Moore spends a day hobnobbing with the Mayor of Bath and judging Bath in Bloom entries

ast month saw the Hampton Court Flower Show take centre stage, horticulturally speaking, with the likes of Monty Don, Joe Swift et al gracing our screens with their take on the gardening prowess of various designers with substantial budgets and an eclectic bunch of ideas. In the same week, here in Bath I too was whizzing about pronouncing on somewhat more modest gardens although with greater longevity than the average show garden, with no less a personage than the Mayor of Bath, Paul Crossley. Quite how I got the gig is lost in the annals of the Bath in Bloom committee but I was not complaining as the flag waving limousene collected me from the front door of The Bath Priory, complete with chauffeur. Apparently one does not open a car door when there is a chauffeur as it is regarded as bad form – I hope this information may come in useful again. Anyway enough of me having ideas above my station and on with the job, which was to accompany the Mayor around the city as we judged the winners from last year to find the winner of the winners, so to speak. If you won last year you can’t enter the following year, you see, but you can still win against the other winners. Makes sense? It’s not an easy task believe me as the winners tend to be rather different, ranging from a small shop front to a hotel garden with breath-taking views. Not The Bath Priory I hasten to add – that would be a conflict of interest and would lead to all sorts of kerfuffle – although it did happen by accident one 108 TheBATHMagazine

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year and there was a bit of an ‘Oops’ when I declared my involvement. The tour was due to start with a private garden which is managed by a professional gardener except there was a communication breakdown and the gate was locked. The walls were about ten feet high so we thought we’d come back later. Next visit was to Bath Aquaglass in Walcot Street, which does a brilliant job of greening its own little corner of the street. I love the way it has colour themed all its hanging baskets in beautiful blue tones and there’s a pretty wirework bench and a corner planter of regal pelargoniums, bronze begonias and trailing plants like bacopa. Jutting out of the display are rusty rods topped with baubles of glass in stripes and swirls of different colours co-ordinating with the colours of the planting. The Mayor and I approved wholeheartedly. Walcot Street is decidedly enhanced by Bath Aquaglass. Next we moved along the street and down a little lane to Orchard Arts, home of numerous little businesses and studios, including the artist Bronwyn Williams-Ellis. Bronwyn makes lovely and very individual tiles and ceramics and has created an equally lovely and unique little courtyard garden in the centre of this little cluster of businesses. Among the eclectic selection of pots and planters are chunks of glass and marble, metalwork insects on stalks that wave gently as you brush past them and interesting bits and bobs. It seems like Bronwyn plants everything she can in a pot – there are the usual suspects such as hostas and the less usual such as olives and then there’s the downright unusual

such as a huge salvia, which I now have a few seedlings from. I bet that’s the first time the Mayoral vehicle has transported a bag of seedlings – Nick the chauffeur, a helpful chap, asked me if I was looking for a bin, not realising what was in the carrier. There were even a few tomato plants placed conveniently for the bench and table, as well as some screening for the bike stands. Around the corner was our next stop, The Star Inn. The Star is almost as famous for its glorious bedding displays as it is for its beer. Both are beautifully kept and a delight to anyone that has the good fortune to appreciate them. There is no doubting the work it takes to make such a show and the regular deadheading and attention to detail is second to none. Unfortunately it wasn’t opening time so our judgments were unswayed by any offers of bribery and corruption. The same cannot be said at our next stop. Paradise House Hotel lies on Holloway looking elegant but

BATH IN BLOOM ENTRIES: main picture, the gardens of Paradise House Hotel in Holloway, and inset, the colour co-ordinated display outside Bath Aquaglass in Walcot Street Opposite page, ceramic artist Bronwyn Williams -Ellis with judges Jane Moore and the Mayor of Bath Paul Crossley Picture courtesy of Adrian John Leeds visit: adrianjohnleeds.co.cok

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unassuming from the front until one steps out onto the lawn and is left breathless by the staggering view of the city lying in its bowl beneath you. Really it’s a wonder that the gardener – or in fact the staff – get any work done at all as you could while away hours watching the world go by from that garden. The garden is a joy – tiers of lawns and beautifully kept herbaceous borders with a wisteria covered pergola, rusty urns and a ferny, iris filled pond gurgling away in the corner. The Mayor and I rambled happily about and arrived back on the main lawn to find tea and chocolate brownies awaiting us. Readers, we

drank the tea and ate the brownies without any compunction having agreed our marks beforehand. Our next two stops could not have been more of a contrast. Ayr Street is one of those typical Oldfield Park little roads with terraces of Bath stone houses and no front gardens. Yet the residents have made the little street blossom with hanging baskets, window boxes and pots filled with plants of all shapes, sizes and colours. The power behind the passion is June Player, our current Deputy Mayor, better known to me as the lady behind the flowering of Oldfield Park Station and various other little

corners and pockets of Oldfield Park. It was no surprise to find that she’s also made her own little corner a floral joy. Long may June keep up the good work. Next came Weston Ex-Services Club with its immaculately maintained trees, strictly cut lawns and profusion of planters and hanging baskets. The club only entered the competition for the first time last year and the managers, a friendly and enthusiastic couple, were clearly bowled over to find themselves in the winners’ category this year. Finally we returned to Lansdown where the gate was unlocked and we found ourselves in an oasis of roses, lavender and hydrangeas all beautifully maintained by a professional for the elderly owner. It was a lovely spot to finish our tour and so very typical of what lies behind these many walls of Bath, I suspect. With our judging completed, I was dropped off one final time in style at the Priory. And yes, I remembered not to open my own car door! I think the Mayor will agree that we had a great little snapshot of Bath in those few hours. In all my years of gardening, it always amazes me the enthusiasm and diversity that people bring to their own little patch of the world and that’s exactly what we saw in this wonderful little city of ours. Aren’t we lucky? n Jane Moore is the award-winning gardening columnist and head gardener at the Bath Priory Hotel. She also writes for the Telegraph and can be followed on Twitter @janethegardener. The Bath in Bloom 2016 winners will recieve their awards at a gala evening early in September.

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PROPERTY | HOMEPAGE

t James is nestled in a peaceful private position in Kingsdown, approximately six miles north east of Bath. The village itself has a long established pub, a riding stables and the very fine Kingsdown Golf Course nearby. Neighbouring Bathford and Box are thriving communities with all the necessary local amenities. The detached property offers single storey open plan living with light and airy accommodation which has been newly refurbished. The internal area is some 2792 sq ft and the contemporary, linear design affords great versatility. Particular features are the well fitted Jeremy Kingston kitchen with triple Neff ovens and beautiful red titanium granite work surfaces, the spacious kitchen/dining/sitting room which has twin sets of bi-fold doors giving access to both the front and rear, and the large master bedroom with its impressive en suite bathroom. There is gas fired under floor heating throughout. The house is reached though automated timber gates and there is ample driveway parking in addition to the large integral garage. There is a lovely paved sun terrace to the front and good sized lawned gardens to the rear. Viewing is by appointment with agents Pritchards and you can enjoy an advance preview by way of their online video tour at pritchards-bath.co.uk Pritchards, 11 Quiet Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 466225

ST JAMES, KINGSDOWN NEAR BATH • Contemporary detached single storey home • Master bedroom, three further double bedrooms, all en suite • Study/bedroom five • Under floor heating throughout •Garden access from all principal rooms

Price: £1,150,000

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Lansdown A rare opportunity to purchase a spacious family home situated on a no through road which is conveniently situated within walking distance of a number of well regarded schools. No onward chain. • 4 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, 2 bathrooms & cloakroom • Well enclosed private garden • Double garage & driveway parking • Sought after location close to well regarded schools and within easy reach of the city centre • Floor area approx house 2189 sq ft/204 sq m • EPC rating: D

Guide Price: £1,075,000

Norton St Philip An extremely light & airy, completely remodelled, open plan 4 bedroom detached property located in a convenient position within this highly popular village near Bath. • 4 bedrooms, family bathroom & 2 en suites • Underfloor heating on the ground floor • Additional media room/attic room/storage area accessed by ladder approx. 334 sq ft /31 sq m • Parking & garaging • Attractive landscaped gardens • Int. floor area approx 2197 sq ft / 204 sq m (inc. garage) • EPC rating: C

Guide Price: £750,000 11 Quiet Street, Bath BA1 2LB

Tel: 01225 466 225

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pritchards-bath.co.uk

Thomas Street A beautifully presented 3 bedroom classic Georgian Grade II Listed townhouse in a popular road within easy walking distance of the centre of Bath and Bath Spa station. • 3 bedrooms, bathroom, shower room utility & cloakroom • Elegant 1st floor drawing room • Kitchen with AGA, breakfast room, dining room • Private enclosed rear garden • Internal floor area approx. 1572 sq ft / 146.1 sq m

Price: £750,000

Monkton Farleigh A charming detached house dating back to the 1600's (not Listed) in the heart of Monkton Farleigh. Beautifully presented throughout with numerous period features & good sized kitchen/breakfast room with AGA • 4 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms • Pretty gardens to the side and rear • Secure off street parking for numerous vehicles • 5 miles from Bath • Approx floor area 2000 sq ft /185.8 sq m) • EPC rating: F

Price: £595,000 11 Quiet Street, Bath BA1 2LB

Tel: 01225 466 225

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THINKING PROPERTY Peter Greatorex, managing director of The apartment Company

The sun is still shining on the property market in Bath

s a sweeping change is introduced in the Cabinet by Theresa May’s reshuffle the rest of us carry on with the norms of daily life. It is still very much business as usual in the Bath property market and we are even seeing an increase in business as we continue to be seen as a strong alternative to our capital. The pause button on the prime London property market pre Brexit has been lifted despite the messages of doom and gloom, it was reported, only this week that prime sales were up by 40% the week after the referendum. Outside the prime sales market, positivity has returned as agents are expressing an increase in demand over the last couple of weeks, as buyers are seeing opportunities. There seems to be a feeling that the decision has been made and life goes on and buyers and vendors alike are starting to make firm-buying decisions again. The strength of the London market is a great sign for Bath, we attract a large number of commuter buyers and foreign investors based on the situation in London. Bath’s apartment advantage is that we don’t rely on one type of buyer; our property market is served by many factions, therefore should one slow we tend to see growth in another thus keeping the market relatively stable.

Crafting beautiful homes In and around Bath

It is not just in sales where we have seen a growth; our lettings department continues to attract the finest properties in Bath and surrounding areas, which are let with the same speed as they are listed. We agreed more than 20 lets in June and we look to exceed this figure in July. The state of the pound has certainly attracted foreign investors looking to expand their portfolios with apartments that provide consistent yields and minimal void periods. We believe the market is there for investors with a mid to long-term goal. The saying ‘buy to wait’ rather than ‘wait to buy’ springs to mind. The property itself is an attraction but our renowned and proven effective management of their portfolio gives them continued confidence in investing in Bath. As a result, the sun is still shining on the apartment property market in Bath. For advice and guidance on selling your home, or if you are looking to find an apartment in Bath, use the specialist agent with specific expertise in the local apartment market, The Apartment Company. Tel: 01225 471144

01225 791155

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Northfields Close, Lansdown A contemporary four bedroom detached family home, finished to a high specification of design throughout, and located in the popular Lansdown area, within walking distance of a selection of highly regarded primary and secondary schools.

*An administration fee of ÂŁ420.00 inc. VAT applies.

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Bear Flat Wells Road, BA2 ÂŁ550,000

A striking period townhouse set between Bear Flat and the city centre enjoying wonderful views across the city. Accommodation offers four bedrooms, two reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, two shower rooms, bathroom, utility, front and rear gardens. Energy Efficiency Rating: E

Camden Road Dowding Road, BA1 Guide Price ÂŁ1,000,000

An impressive 1920's detached house in the heart of Larkhall village offering 3498 sq. ft. with parking and driveway. This six bedroom property has been in the same family for over 30 years and is divided into two large apartments with exciting potential to turn into a family home or maintain as is for an extended family or annex. The principle rooms are well proportioned with extensive views. Externally it has attractive front and rear gardens. Energy Efficiency Rating: C

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Bath Central Ashley Road, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 ÂŁ450,000

Three bedroom cottage on fringe of lovely market town. Well-formed layout with some ample rooms and includes level garden for those wanting decent outside space. The sitting room has a stove and leads to conservatory. The dining room opens to the kitchen with access to WC and space to park your wellingtons. The garden is a particular delight running across the back of the house and beyond with plenty of space to garden, play and entertain. Energy Efficiency Rating: D

SOLD STC

Newbridge Newbridge Hill, BA1 Guide Price ÂŁ825,000

A substantial period home that has been in the same family for over 40 years. Four double bedrooms, three reception rooms, 130' by 35'6 rear garden and a basement which is crying out for development. Packed with period features, this super home does need updating. Vendor not buying onward. Energy Efficiency Rating: F

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Hayeswood Road, Timsbury

OIEO ÂŁ900,000

RURAL SETTING

Truly Unique Opportunity to Purchase a Five Bedroom Lodge Standing in Approximately 2 Acres of Landscaped Gardens close to the Desirable Village of Timsbury. Set in Stunning Grounds and Presented in Excellent Order Benefiting from Detached Double Garage with Office and an Abundance of Additional Parking EPC - D

Local & Independent Serving Bath & Villages

Fidelis August.indd 1

01225 421000 www.fidelisinbath.co.uk

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Mark Naylor editorial august.qxp_Layout 7 19/07/2016 17:27 Page 1

Highways House, Wells Road • Substantial semidetached Victorian villa currently run as an eight bedroom B&B • Off-street parking in popular city location • Owner’s accommodation of one bedroom flat on site • Potential to convert back into single family home with space for annexe suitable for semi-independent relative

irbnb has created entrepreneurs out of many homeowners, who enjoy welcoming visitors to Bath and sharing the pleasures of living in a World Heritage City. And for those who want to take that step up from renting out a couple of rooms, the sale of thriving B&B Highways House on Wells Road, with eight en suite rooms, would make good sense. The house is a classic Victorian semi-detached villa, built in 1871, with high ceilings and large rooms. It’s a half mile walk uphill from Bath Spa station and the city centre and has plenty of off-street parking on site. There are two large reception rooms, a big kitchen/dining room – a homely environment rather than a space designed for corporate catering – a laundry room and a self-contained one bedroom flat for the owners on the lower ground floor. Highways House gets good reviews on Tripadvisor, particularly for its comfortable rooms, views over the city, freshly cooked breakfasts and welcoming staff. But this property would also make a substantial family home with some little adjustments. There is an extension at the back of the building, overlooking the back garden, which could easily be converted into a granny annexe, providing plenty of space for three generations to live happily on the same site. That, together with the lower ground floor one bedroom flat, could even accommodate two semi-independent grannies. This is a pleasant spot on the road up to Bear Flat, which has a lovely community spirit and there are good primary and secondary schools within easy reach. If the new owner decides to continue with the B&B business the fittings would be available for sale at a price to be agreed. Highways House is on the market at £1.25m.

Mark Naylor, 1 Hayes Place, Bear Flat, Bath. Tel: 01225 422224

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k Mar r o l y a N

local • trusted • independent

Midford Road

Price Guide £795,000

This property is a unique, detached residence offering generous accommodation, private position and a large and established plot, with meadowlike gardens to the front and delightful cottage garden to the rear. • Spacious detached home • Sought-after location

☎ 01225 422 224

• 5 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms • Double garage and parking

• Semi rural views • Lovely, large mature gardens

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BODHI HOUSE, Bath

ÂŁ1,475,000

Stunning detached home with panoramic views across Bath, offering a total of approx. 4074 sq. ft. including detached annex and double garage in desirable Englishcombe Lane. Comprises seven bedrooms, three en suite, two additional bathrooms, kitchen/breakfast room opening on to garden and parking. EPC Rating: B

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LAMBROOK BARN, Bath

ÂŁ795,000

Lambrook Barn is a stunning barn conversion located in the Lower Swainswick/Larkhall area of Bath. Newly converted to a high standard and with an excellent specification, the property is tucked away on a no through road with a garden that leads down to a stream, the Lam Brook. EPC Rating: TBC

N EW

Selling & Letting Bath’s finest apartments

Connaught Mansions

Offers in Excess of £480,000

Grade I listed • Georgian apartment • Second floor • Two bedrooms • Bespoke kitchen • Private gated parking space • Lift access • Approx 795 Sq ft

A beautifully presented two bedroom second floor Georgian apartment located in a highly sought after building in a prime address - Great Pulteney Street. The apartment is presented in excellent decorative order, with the advantage of a gated allocated parking space and the building itself is maintained to a very high standard.

The Academy

Offers in Excess of £395,000

Contemporary apartment • Open plan living • Two double bedrooms • Two bathrooms • Gated private parking • Approx 919 Sq ft

The Apartment Company is delighted to bring to the market this two bedroom apartment located on the site of a former school. The apartment comprises: large open plan living space incorporating sitting room, dining area and modern kitchen. The second bedroom and bathroom are located on the ground level with stairs leading up to the master bedroom with en-suite.

N EW

Bloomfield Road Period property Second floor apartment double bedrooms • Third bedroom/Study Sq ft •

Offers in Excess of £375,000 • •

Newly refurbished kitchen • Two Garage • No chain • Approx 1,163

Offering the most breathtaking views over Bath and surrounding areas this apartment is truly unique. Once in the property you will find: entrance hall, large dine in kitchen which has been newly refurbished to a very high standard, sitting room boasting views to the rear of the apartment, master bedroom with an en-suite shower room, second bedroom, third bedroom/study, family bathroom and finally a store room.

Brunswick Place

Offers in Excess of £375,000

Grade II listed • Georgian apartment • Ground floor • Stylish kitchen • Two bedrooms • Newly refurbished • Central location • Approx 637 Sq ft

Situated in a highly sought after location close to the Assembly Rooms is this newly refurbished two bedroom apartment. Accessed via the ground floor of a Georgian townhouse the apartment comprises: entrance hall, sitting room, newly refurbished kitchen with integrated appliances, mezzanine level with a sleeping area, two double bedrooms both with built in wardrobes and a contemporary shower room.

Selling & Letting Bath’s finest apartments

Beaumont House

Offers in Excess of £350,000

Period property • Second floor apartment • Two bedrooms • Stunning views High specification kitchen • Off road parking • Approx 721 Sq ft

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A stylish two bedroom second floor apartment located in a prime residential area on the Northern slopes of the city. The accommodation comprises large sitting room, superb fitted kitchen with integrated appliances and granite work surfaces, two double bedrooms and luxury bathroom. Externally there are communal grounds and an allocated parking space.

Moravian Place

Offers in Excess of £240,000

Converted church • First floor apartment • One bedroom • Stylish interior Modern kitchen • Large terrace • EPC Rating: B • Approx 431 Sq ft

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This stylish apartment is located in a former Moravian Church - one of 11 beautifully appointed apartments. Each apartment has been individually designed making the best use of space and light, being tastefully finished with stylish kitchens and bathrooms. The apartment also benefits from a private terrace, designated parking space, communal bike storage area and refuse area.

N EW

N EW Portland Place

£1,550 pcm Cavendish Place

£1,100 pcm Brunswick Place

Georgian Ground and lower ground floor Two bedrooms • Large kitchen and sitting room • Central location • Lift • Delightful terrace • Unfurnished • Agency fees £420 inc VAT • Available mid July 2016

Grade I listed Georgian apartment Second floor • One double bedroom • Prestigious address • Well presented • Spacious • Unfurnished • Agency fees £420 inc VAT • Available in August

Unique maisonette offering spacious living with outside space.

Well presented one bedroom apartment with views.

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Stunning one bedroom apartment in the heart of the city.

LE Great Pulteney Street

£995 pcm

Georgian First floor apartment Stunning interior No pets • Stylish kitchen • One bed • Views • Furnished • Centrally located • Agency fees £420 inc VAT • Available 7th September •

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£1,100 pcm Weston Lodge

£1,000 pcm St James Square

£975 pcm

Georgian First floor apartment One bedroom • Sought after location • Resident parking permit • Council Tax Band: C • Part furnished • Agency fees £420 inc VAT • Available now

Period property First floor apartment Two double Georgian Second floor apartment One bedroom • Central location • No pets • Well presented • bedrooms • Ample storage • Separate kitchen • Bright and spacious • Part furnished • Agency fees Council Tax Band: C • Unfurnished • Agency fees £420 inc VAT • Available now £420 inc VAT • Available 5th August

Superbly located apartment occupying the first floor.

Quiet and peaceful apartment with communal gardens.

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Second floor apartment offering one double bedroom.

N Chatham Row

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£895 pcm Daniel Street

£875 pcm Russel Street

£995 pcm

Georgian One double bedroom Large drawing room • Private front door • Council Tax Band: C • Centrally located • Unfurnished • Agency fees £420 inc VAT • Available 22nd June

Georgian Ground floor apartment Central location • No pets • Studio • Well presented • Council Tax Band: B • Furnished • Agency fees £420 inc VAT • Available 9th September

Georgian Top floor apartment One double bedroom • Central location • Residents parking permit • No pets • Unfurnished • Agency fees £420 inc VAT • Available 1st August

One bedroom apartment offering its own private door.

Ground floor studio apartment in a central location.

Conveniently located top floor apartment.

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FOR SALE

AN EXCEPTIONAL 5 BEDROOM CONTEMPORARY DETACHED HOUSE SHAM CASTLE LANE, BATH

Approx 3,526 sq ft luxurious accommodation including 5 receptions, stunning open-plan kitchen/dining/family room, 4 bath/showers ◆ Landscaped gardens with breathtaking views ◆ Gated block paved driveway with extensive parking plus double garage ◆ In a highly sought after location ◆ EPC – C Guide Price £2,500,00 Freehold

FOR SALE

A SUPERB DETACHED 5 BEDROOM VICTORIAN HOUSE WITHIN 3.5 MILES OF BATH BANNERDOWN, BATH

Approx 3,283 sq ft including 5 bedrooms, 3 receptions, superb kitchen/breakfast room, 3 bath/shower rooms ◆ Large terrace and pretty, well established gardens, total plot approx 0.8 acres ◆ Extensive driveway parking and double garage ◆ Elevated position with far reaching views ◆ EPC – E Guide Price £1,500,000 Freehold

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FOR SALE

A MAJESTIC GRADE II LISTED GEORGIAN HOUSE ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF BATH BATHAMPTON, BATH

Approx 6,647 sq ft including 6 bedrooms, 5 receptions, large kitchen/breakfast room, 5 bath/shower rooms, extensive wine cellar, sauna & gym ◆ Exquisite period features with an exceptionally high level of finish ◆ Large enclosed landscaped rear garden ◆ Detached contemporary studio ◆ Gravelled carriage driveway & garage ◆ Views Guide Price £3,550,000 Freehold

FOR SALE

A CHARMING 4 BEDROOM VICTORIAN TERRACED HOUSE IN A CONVENIENT LOCATION PULTENEY ROAD, BATH

Approx 2,527 sq beautifully presented accommodation over 4 storeys including contemporary open plan kitchen/dining room and 2 reception rooms, 2 bath/shower rooms and 2 cellar/workshop store rooms ◆ Landscaped front garden plus a charming enclosed courtyard garden to the rear ◆ EPC – E Guide Price £925,000 Freehold

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