23 minute read
A GHOSTLY STORY
The haunting of the Royal Crescent
Every Christmastide deserves a good ghost story. So we asked Dr Lynch of Bath Ghost Tours to tell us one associated with Bath (he knows them all, being deceased), based on the real-life narrative of two famous star-crossed lovers
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Bath has, as everyone knows, a rich and varied history, dating back before the Romans ever set foot upon this land. It is a history full of stories of passion, romance, intrigue, deception and life. But like most cities and towns where life has been lived to the full, Bath can also boast a very rich collection of ghost stories, legends and paranormal sightings. It is a city which for centuries has drawn the attentions of the living, and similarly it has retained the attentions of the dead!
All hauntings have a story behind them, a reason, if you will, for why a certain phenomenon has been reported. For the majority of hauntings, the origin will be a history of great violence, sadness or desperation which is attached to a certain location. The obvious example of this is a house in which a particularly violent murder or desperate suicide has occurred, and Bath has quite a few of those. However, not all hauntings are so grim, and as we are getting close to Christmas, it seems only fitting that I share with you one of Bath’s most warming of ghost stories.
There is a house, on the Royal Crescent no less, which was the location of a famous elopement during March 1772, when the street itself was almost brand new and, as it is today, a most sought-after address. A plaque is fitted on the outside of number 11, briefly mentioning that this is the former address of the famed beauty and soprano of Bath, Elizabeth Linley. She stole away under the cover of darkness one night, wrapped up against the cold in a carriage to France with her young lover, Richard Brinsley Sheridan. Reputedly, the couple were secretly married and soon returned. Elizabeth was just 17 and was acting against her father’s wishes. Sheridan himself wasn’t much older and was similarly acting without his family’s blessing. Upon returning to England, the young lovers had to part, both being in their minority, without money, and most tellingly because Elizabeth’s father refused the suit of the young Sheridan. After she threatened suicide, Elizabeth’s father relented, and they were officially married in London in 1773 and went on to have a son, Thomas.
The haunting connected with this famous elopement is reported by the occurrence of two different phenomena. Firstly, the spirit of Elizabeth herself has been heard singing while descending the stairs of number 11, beautiful perhaps, but no less highly disturbing to encounter. Secondly and more dramatically are the reports of the sight and sounds, of four dapple-grey horses leading at speed a carriage clattering upon the cobblestones of the Royal Crescent during the dead of night.
These hauntings are reported to be associated with the elopement –so are they therefore just moments of romantic happiness, fragmentary elements of youthful passion which have been somehow imprinted upon the very stones of the Crescent? Well, dear readers, the answer is both ‘yes’ and of course ‘no’. These phenomena are indeed the replaying of tiny moments within the intense passions of our young lovers, but it is the depths of the later despair and tragedy attached to the lives and deaths of this famous couple, which has caused this particular haunting.
Before her famous elopement, Elizabeth already had quite the reputation as a highly spirited young woman, a great beauty whose charms and looks had brought her the attentions of many would-be suitors, most of which were unwelcome. At just 17, she had already been engaged by her father to a wealthy gentleman who was 44 years her senior. From this unromantic arrangement, she had managed to extricate herself, only to be pursued most vehemently by a friend of the family, one Captain Mathews. Despite already being married at the time, Mathews was most insistent and dogged in his advances towards the beautiful Miss Linley, and it is from this aggressive admirer, as well as fear of any further engagements arranged by her father, that led Elizabeth to take matters into her own hands in 1772.
Captain Mathews, however, was not a man to be so easily rejected. He published a most scathing letter in a widely circulated newspaper, insulting the character and reputations of both Linley and Sheridan. Indeed, upon returning to England, Sheridan was forced to defend both their reputations by agreeing to fight Mathews in a duel in London. To the surprise of all, Sheridan was the victor in this duel, mostly due to the dubious tactic employed, of immediately rushing his opponent. Mathews, despite the defeat, but true to his nature, demanded a second duel shortly after, this time to be held just outside Bath itself, upon Kingsdown. This time Mathews was ready for any dubious tactics, and it was Sheridan who was left defeated and badly wounded. This personal experience became the background for Sheridan’s most successful of plays, The Rivals. After risking his life twice, and more importantly, their parents finally agreeing to the match, Richard and Elizabeth were at last allowed to officially marry.
The Sheridans should have been happy,
BELOW: Portrait of Richard Brinsley Sheridan (1758–1810) by John Hoppner BELOW: Portrait of Miss Elizabeth Linley (1754–1792) [later Mrs Richard Brinsley Sheridan] by Thomas Gainsborough
The spirits of Richard and Elizabeth are ultimately playing out their elopement ...in a desperate attempt to right their own wrongs ❝
but in many ways, they were products and victims of their own time. Richard became a successful playwright, owned a theatre in London, and even enjoyed a parliamentary career. Elizabeth still performed occasionally for a healthy fee, travelled widely with her husband, and they had their love and their son. However, love is not always enough. Elizabeth preferred a quiet family existence, whereas Richard was in truth a rake and a gambler, who preferred the noise and life of London. Both had affairs, and they soon fell into the practice of largely living apart from each other. It was from one of these affairs that Elizabeth fell pregnant again, to Lord Edward Fitzgerald. She gave birth to a daughter, but there were complications. Elizabeth never fully recovered from the difficult pregnancy and being of a weak constitution, as well as now suffering from tuberculosis, she sadly died shortly after, at just 38 years old. We are told that Sheridan nursed Elizabeth throughout her illness and even adopted the child that was not his, and was subsequently broken by his wife’s early and tragic death.
Ill-fortune continued to plague the family. Elizabeth’s daughter died very early, a mere year after her mother, Sheridan’s London theatre burnt to the ground and Sheridan himself soon fell into a downward spiral of heavy drinking and gambling. He died himself in 1816, and despite such a glittering career his last years were spent in abject misery and poverty.
The lives and subsequent deaths of Richard and Elizabeth make for a great story in itself; indeed several of Sheridan’s plays are largely based upon their own experiences. Their passionate love for each other was intense, and unconstrained by convention or time. However, the combined elements of intense despair and deep regret has denied their spirits any rest. They return to the scene of the Royal Crescent, time and time again, creating a re-enactment of a moment when life and love held so much promise.
The spirits of Richard and Elizabeth are ultimately playing out their elopement from the Crescent in a desperate attempt to right their own wrongs, a venture that is doomed to failure, and it’s a fate we must all be wary of. However if you find yourself unable to sleep on a cold winter’s night, take a walk to the Royal Crescent, and if you’re lucky, very lucky, their carriage might just pass you by. But, dear readers, please don’t get in! n
Bath Ghost Tours offer ghost walks in the city of Bath. Led by Dr Lynch, Mrs Needles and Mrs Cruncher (all deceased), the tours are a mixture of fun, theatrics, historical fact and paranormal experiments. Tours run at 8pm from outside the Abbey, from midMarch to December every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night and also on Wednesday and Sunday from June to October. Private ghost tours can be booked throughout the year for private parties. bathghosttours.com
’Tis the season...
The festive season is upon us so let’s express our love and appreciation to those who have been in our thoughts all year. Here’s a wondersome show of gift inspiration from the finest local ateliers, stores and online retailers
TEXTILE ART BY CAROLE WALLER
Highly acclaimed Bath based textile artist, Carole Waller sells her designs and painted fabrics at top stores across the globe. Her online shop features her painted clothing, accessories and so many gorgeous things.
Shown here is ‘Glider’ handpainted green and orange silk scarf, £65.
Carole was Inspired by watching paragliders floating over the English landscape of Herefordshire and Worcestershire on the Malvern Hills. Painted on silk crepe de chine with a lovely drape in greys, aqua, greens, pink, and a touch of yellow – with a big orange/red swoop of colour all along the scarf.
Wash by hand, shake out and hang carefully to dry or gentle tumble dry – and iron very slightly damp for easiest results. Measures : 143cm/55″ by 34cm/13.5″ Worn with a unique handprinted aluminium cuff, £65, by Annie Beardsley/Carole Waller which can be found on the WallerandWood Gallery website: www. carolewaller.co.uk
IT ALL STARTS WITH THE BAUBLES
Loving the images on our front cover? Well, it’s conceived using some of the lovely decorative baubles from one of our favourite retailers, Graham & Green. Shown here: Moon and star bauble, £5.95; antique gold Moon face decoration, £9.75; and blue globe decoration, £5.95. Plenty more to enjoy too. Graham & Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BG www.grahamandgreen.co.uk
A CHIC, SLOW FASHION SWEATSHIRT
From Bath based embellishment studio See+QUIN this 'Bow' sweatshirt in black with silver has all the necessary classic vibes we love plus a magical twinkle. Fairwear sweatshirt made of 100% GOTS organic cotton and recycled materials. This is slow fashion at its best –created to order by an artisan embroidery house in the UK, £88. Also available in cream with gold. Christmas delivery closes Sunday 5 Dec. Shop the range at www.seeandquin.co.uk/shop
BULLFROG FOR BETTER BOTTLES AND SO MUCH MORE
Ever since the launch of Bath based Bullfrog’s first ultra-slick 500ml water bottles in 2020, the daily mission has been to eradicate the use of harmful plastic and instead opt for high quality reusable stainless steel bottles. Since then, they’ve never stopped evolving, now with two ranges of sustainable coffee cups as well as a superb range of recycled material products and apparel. Visit the shop at: 10 Kingsmead Square, Bath BA1 2AB or shop online www: bullfrogbottles.com
ARTISAN CRAFTS & DECORATIONS
Artisan Homeware is an independent Bristol-based homewares store bringing traditional craftsmanship to contemporary interiors. Alongside beautiful handmade stoneware from Poland, a new textile collection designed by Anna Lisa Smith (Libertys of London, Tate Edit Series) brings timeless design to luxuriously thick Merino blankets and cushions woven on traditional jacquard looms in West Yorkshire. Ceramics from £9.95 - £130 and shown here: Alex blanket in sea holly blue (200x140cm) £225. Visit the Christmas shop at: www.artisanhomeware.co.uk
ARTIST DESIGNS AT GALLERY NINE
Beautifully made by textile artist, Katie Mawson, this linen scarf £85, is just one of the fantastic items by many talented artists and designers whose work is on show and available to buy at Bath’s contemporary arts & crafts gallery, Gallery Nine –Well worth a visit.
Gallery Nine, 9B Margaret Buildings, Bath. www.gallerynine.co.uk
STARS FROM THE EAST
Oriental Rugs of Bath is home to an eclectic collection of authentically handcrafted rugs, kilims and furnishings from the Middle and Far East. Visit the showroom to discover a fine range of cushions and beautifully handwoven rugs. This kilim cushion is a limited edition but a fine example of a vast range, it will last for years and add a touch of eastern magic to any room. Bookbarn International, Hallatrow Business Park, Hallatrow, Bristol. www. orientalrugsofbath.com
‘TIS GREAT FUN BLOWING BAUBLES EMILY DENNYS CERAMICS
See a wonderful selection of beautiful handmade lamps, vases and wall panels all made by local ceramicist Emily Dennys. Prices range £12-£250. Visit Emily’s website to see more of her wonderful pieces. Web: emilydennysshop.com
Buy someone special a gift they won’t be expecting – a glass blowing experience at Bath Aqua Glass. They could craft their own bauble, enrol on a stained glass course or enjoy a half day session with an expert glassblower. They’ll keep everything they make. Prices start from £22.50. Gift vouchers available. Head to www.bathaquaglass.com for all the details.
SERVING SUGGESTION
A visit to Bath’s top interior design and styling showroom, Woodhouse & Law is a must for inspired and stylish gift ideas. We love this ‘Algarve’ set of six acacia wood spoons, just £39. Visit Woodhouse & Law, 4 Georges Place, Bath BA2 4EN
FINE GIFTS IN MINIATURE
Nigel Dando’s shop has a wonderful range of new and antique collectible items. We love these silver and enamel, hand-scuplted miniatures by Saterno of Italy and also spotted a fine Signet ring. Nigel will arrange a crest stamp or initials engraved if needed. Nigel Dando, 11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath.
BERRY CHRISTMAS KIDS
Hats off to Up to Seven! Designed and handmade at their workshop in Bath, these adorable, roll-edged hats are all knitted in anti-tickle wool, and can be machine washed at 30 degrees. Available in five sizes (and also in navy), they are priced at just £16, making them the perfect gift. They can be matched with Up to Seven’s beautiful handmade cardigans, baby shoes and mittens. Up to Seven, 6 Pulteney Bridge, Bath. www.uptoseven.co.uk
PRINT IS READ
If you subscribe to our weekly newsletter then you’ll be very familiar with Daniel McCabe’s regular review of some of the coolest and inspired magazine reads he sells at his excellent shop, Magalleria. Magalleria is a unique store selling one of the largest collections of international, independent and niche magazines in Europe. It imports magazines, journals and zines from all over the world, with many exclusive to its range. Perfect for gifting and finding new and delightful reads this is the place to pick up a gift card and let the print lover find their magazine nirvana. Magalleria, 5 Upper Borough Walls, Bath BA1 1RG www.magalleria.co.uk
THE OPTICS ARE THE BEST
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Discover the magic at the London Camera Exchange trusted by enthusiasts and professionals who want the very best in optical gear. For example... hot on the scene is the oustanding Sony a7 IV mirrorless digital camera. The body has been designed from the ground up to create the definitive full frame hybrid in Sony’s mirrorless E-mount range. Now a completely new 33 megapixel full-frame sensor inside a new body design, incorporating both stills image and 4k (50p PAL) movie technology from their flagship Alpha 1 and A7S III cameras. The A7 IV Body and FE 28-70, F3.5 kit lens shown, pre-order now, £2,599.99.
London Camera Exchange Bath, 13 Cheap Street, Bath BA1 1NB www.lcegroup.co.uk
DELIGHTFUL HANDMADE JEWELLERY BY CAMI-LOU
Camilla Frayling is a jewellery designer and maker from Bath with over ten years experience. Camilla now runs her own small business, Cami-Lou Jewellery Designs where she uses precious metals, semi-precious and precious gemstones creating fabulous, interesting pieces with beautiful textures and lovely detail. Shown here, The Sterling silver and 9ct gold loop necklace with the small 9ct gold bead at the top of the tassel is £55, while the one on the right with alarge 9ct gold bead at the top of the tassel is £60. See more on Instagram: camilou_jewellerydesigns or visit her online shop at: www.camiloujewellery.co.uk
SANTA’S SECRET AGENTS
Written by two local authors, the new children’s Christmas book, Santa’s Secret Agents invites children to go on the ride of their lives as they attempt to spot all of Santa’s highly trained crack(er) team of all-seeing elves. £9.99. Find it at all good book shops and in Bath at: Mr B’s Emporium, 13-15 John Street, Bath BA1 2JL. www.mrbsemporium.com
INSPIRATIONAL WALL ART
If you're looking to transform a restaurant wall, office, cafe, school, large exterior high street facade or a child's bedroom, a mural is a brilliant thing to go for - they bring spaces to life and create a very tailored personal visual impact. Are you wanting to create the right first impression, create a calming environment or encourage your customers to visit again? If so, Bath-based muralist, illustrator and designer Emma Taylor is an experienced mural artist with past clients stretching across the UK. Although she's based in Bath she's happy to travel. She's happy to take on private or corpoarte projects, indoor or outdoor and works closely with each client ensuring they end up with a truly unique and customised mural design that will transform their space. Emma can be contacted on 077912 81122 and to see examples of her work go to Instagram: @emma_taylor_art or visit her website: www.emmataylorart.com
SUNNIER SHADES
Established in 1979, Ellis and Killpartrick is one of the south west's leading independent opticians, and as well as a loyal following of patients the shop boasts a fabulous display of designer sunglasses from the most desirable brands. How about these Chopard sunglasses £465, featuring a classic black acetate frame with beautiful green and white stones, highlighted by gold detail on the temples, reflecting the luxury of Chopard Jewellery. With so many elegant designs in both sunglasses and in the optical collection Ellis and Killpartrick are well worth a visit. 18 New Bond Street, Bath. www.ellisandkillpartrick.com
GRIPPING READS
Two new books from Bath-based author, Christopher Joll. Black Ice (£15.00) tells the extraordinary story of doubleamputee and Afghanistan veteran, Corie Mapp, who went on to become the winner of the para bobsleigh World Cup. The Imperial Impresario (£25.00) takes a wholly new look at Napoleon’s tangible legacy and reveals some extraordinary facts about its present-day values. Both books available from: www.nineelmsbooks.co.uk
HOMEFRONT FOR INSPIRED GIFTING
Homefront Interiors in Margaret's Buildings is one of Bath’s most appealing independent shops offering a carefully curated treasure trove of beautiful sustainable living and artisanal homeware products from local artists and makers. This gorgeous set of four Nkuku Anara etched cocktail glasses ( £46.50) will help get any party started in style and are just one of the many beautiful things from an impressive, varied and covetable range. Homefront, 10 Margaret's Buildings, Bath. www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk
BREAKFAST LIKE A KING...
...or Queen. Shown here is a stylish flower vase by Asprey, £165 and a lovely, big-hearted toast rack, made in 1912, £525. The perfect way to start any day. Visit Beau Nash, Bath’s specialist antique silver shop to see these and an ever impressive range of beautiful and interesting artifacts to treasure and enjoy.
31 Brock Street, Bath. www.beaunashbath.com
ART PRINTS OF BATH
Custom prints of original paintings by local artist David Ringsell will give you a different perspective on the striking classic architecture of the city. Unframed Giclée custom prints can be ordered in three sizes: A2 - £120, A3 - £90, A4 - £75. The beautiful pieces come with narrow white border. The full gallery of David’s artwork and all the contact and ordering information can be found at: www.real-images.com
FINE STATIONERY AND FRAMES
The Bath Framer, owned by Kelly, is a friendly boutique picture framers that has a beautifully quirky front-of-house and a workshop, stacked with all kinds of frames. It’s a joy to visit not only to see beautiful print and frames but also to watch how frames are created. As well as a bespoke framing service, there’s an whole selection of unique cards, gift wrap and some very interesting traditional Brass stationery (shown above) –a perfect gift for a maker or creator with prices starting from £15. Brass stationery, prices starting from £15. 14–15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath BA1 6AD www.thebathpictureframer.co.uk
GLOVELY GIFT IDEAS FROM DENTS
Celebrate the season with stylish Dents’ gloves, gifts and head turning accessories. Whether it be winter essentials or a special gift for a loved one, you will discover a dazzling selection of gloves, accessories, gifts, handbags and much, much, more at: Dents Factory Shop, Furnax Lane, Warminster. www.dents.co.uk
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
The sensual fluid shape of the Cobra candleholder is undoubtedly one of Georg Jensen’s most recognisable and iconic designs. This set of three candlesticks – small (160mm), medium (200mm) and large (240mm) –form a beautiful natural group that, like a cobra, seem to sway this way and that. Made from stainless steel with a mirror-polished finish, the three candlesticks are durable, weighty and stable. £175 for three. Mallory, 1-5 Bridge Street , Bath. www. mallory-jewellers.com
LUX AND BLOOM LUXURY SCARVES AND ACCESSORIES
Pure Silk Skinny Scarves, £69 each. Lux & Bloom is an independent Bath-based, luxury British brand creating fabrics and wallpapers with distinctive hand-drawn botanical designs inspired by the wild beauty of nature. Founded by fine artist, Louise Rushford, each design starts as a hand-painted illustration and has its own unique, irregular character and beauty. The scarves stand out as extraordinarily gorgeous –as are all of the brand’s products. See more on the website: www.luxandbloom.com
THE DRESSING ROOM FOR A BEAUTIFULLY FITTING GIFT
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, Empreinte, Prima Donna and shown here a gorgeous bra and knickers set (£175 ) from the AW range by Lise Charmel.
The shop also has a wide range of basic t-shirt bras and invisible briefs. The beachwear collection features many brands, including: Melissa Odabash, Maryan Mehlhorn, Gottex, Seafolly and Miraclesuit among many others. The nightwear collection boasts Olivia Von Halle, Hanro, 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?
7 Quiet Street, Bath BA1 2JU www. dressingroombath.co.uk
WRAPPED UP FOR CHRISTMAS
The Natural Blanket Company is based in Bath and all products are sourced and woven in the British Isles with a strong belief in supporting British manufacturers and artisan producers. The blanket (below) is called Rosebay and it is made from Merino lambswool, is super soft and priced at £120 (200cm x 145cm). See the full range at: www.thenaturalblanket.co.uk Instagram: # the_natural_blanket
BRINg a SplaSH OF cOlOUR INTO YOUR lIFE.
Milk Jug by Hanne Rysgaard, £48. MADE IN BRISTOL GIFT FAIRS spotlight over 200 makers across 2 gift-packed weekends in December: 04 + 05 Dec, 11 + 12 Dec. Web: madeinbristolgiftfair.co.uk
aDOpT aN aNIMal
Wild Place Project’s new bear, zebra, giraffe and ring-tailed lemur adoption packs make a perfect present and help support conservation work, £30. www.wildplace.org.uk
FaMIlY TIES BY ScRagg DESIgNS
KNIcKERS BORN FROM NaTURE
Introducing Bedstraw + Madder, a new British label making super soft organic cotton knickers. Zero Chemicals. 100% plant dyes. Ethical, sustainable and generally very very good for everyone –we love these pretty knickers and they don’t cost the Earth! Prices from £11. Web: bedstrawandmadder.com
Fine artist Michelle Scragg creates so many beautiful pieces; her breathtaking paintings, posters and designs are a joy to see and all celebrate bold, playful colours which has become her statement style. Michelle also works her designs into clothing, scarves and ties. Shown here is a silk bow tie, £45 and long silk tie, £67. If you love colour find out about Michelle’s work and see more of her delightful art online at: www.michellescragg.com
a glOWINg gIFT FOR FRESH SKIN
The ‘let it glow kit ' is the a perfect gift set to introduce people to medical grade skincare. Take exfoliation and hydration to the new level for beautiful bright , hydrated winter skin. Containing a full size enzymatic peel , full size aqua infusion mask ( previously available for in salon treatments only) and a sample recovery balm and a Alumier headband. The kit includes the Enzymatic Peel and Aqua Infusion Mask and retails for £127.50.
Dr Zoe Haines of Fresh Faced Medical Aesthetics is delighted to introduce this limited edition kit which allows you to give a salon grade facial in your own home. Get bright , fresh skin ready for the party season! Find out more and buy online at: www.freshfacedmedicalaesthetics.co.uk
SUSaNNaH WaY cONTEMpORaRY JEWEllERY
Having worked with a number of the west country’s top goldsmiths and jewellers, Susannah Way now creates her own range of contemporary jewellery. Primarily working in silver her designs are charming and inspired. We love these sterling silver, holly stud earrings with a check pattern for understated Christmas glamour, £25, and this lovely sterling silver gem shape bracelet. The perfect gift for a loved one, £265 and made locally by a top designer. Visit her Etsy online shop (SusannahWayJewellery) or find more details at: www.swayjewellery.com
THE MINISTRY OF QUIZZES
The Ministry of Quizzes is the must-buy gift book for quiz solvers and puzzlers, from David Gentle, author of On the Tip of My Tongue. Perfect for fans of the GCHQ Puzzle Book, Bletchley Park Brainteasers, and The Ordnance Survey Puzzle Book. £12.99 Available online and from Toppings and Mr B’s as well as all good bookshops.
CREATE YOUR OWN SPA AT HOME Gift an at-home spa experience with these professional-grade skin tools. Prices range from £14.99 - £69.99. Use code: BRISTOLBATH15 for 15% off at Web: skinabode.co.uk
