Samantha Harvey on her 2024 Booker Prize‐winning novel Orbital, a powerful meditation from space on the ordinary and the spectacular
WHEN ALI MET PHIL
Journalist Ali Vowles talks to new University of Bath
Vice Chancellor
Phil Taylor
GUTSY SCIENCE
Epidemiologist and Dr. Tim Spector on healthy eating for the microbiome
NEW YEAR FORECAST
What’s ahead in the city? Read 10 commentaries from different sectors of Bath
BEST FOOD FORWARD
We’ve all the top food and drink trends for 2025, from bespoke butters to black garlic
FROM THE EDITOR
What’s occurring this year? Well no crystal balls are required because we’ve got 10 specialist commentaries from different sectors in the city on page 34 – from food and retail to property and leadership, advice ranges from leaning into what you’re best at and how businesses should never stand still, to the value of breathing deeply and the power of laughter.
There’s more looking forward on page 44 as Melissa Blease discovers what’s in and what’s out in the food world. Basically, fig leaves and seaweed caviar will be popping up everywhere, whereas recipe deconstructions and cocktails served in jars are absolute no-nos. Adding to the food debate is genetics professor and pioneer in nutrition and gut microbiome research Tim Spector who took time out to explain to me the intricate workings of the microbiome (that’s the large community of microbes that live in our gut, skin and body). Tim is coming to Bath Forum on 28 January to talk about transforming everyday meals into gut-friendly, health-promoting experiences. See page 40.
I know someone who is starting the year with a zing, and that’s 2024 Booker Prize winner and senior lecturer at Bath Spa University Samantha Harvey. It was fascinating talking to her about her novel Orbital (the shortest ever book to have won) – and discovering how this descriptive meditation touching on the multiple themes of humanity, the meaning of life and climate change encompasses both the mundane and the spectacular, as six astronauts on the International Space Station revolve around the Earth (see page 18). Another thoughtprovoking interview on page 64 sees local journalist and presenter Ali Vowles meeting Phil Taylor the Vice Chancellor at the University of Bath, asking him about his first six months in post and what the future holds.
January also brings wedding plans after all those holiday proposals ending with a ‘Yes!’, and we’ve got plenty of ideas on offer on page 49, along with a recreation of the *perfect day* from The Royal Crescent Hotel. There’s also a Jane Austen lookalike on page 60, in honour of 2025 being the 250th anniversary of her birth.
Conclusion – what’s not to look forward to?
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Clockwise from top left: Martin Shaw at Theatre Royal Bath from 16–25 January; Viggo Venn at Komedia on 8 February; Giovanna Fletcher at Theatre Royal Bath from 18–22 February; James Martin at Bath Forum on 4 March; Harry Hill at Theatre Royal Bath on 9 March; Lucy Worsley at Bath Forum on 27 May; Chris McCausland at Bath Forum on 31 May; Ralph Fiennes at Bath Theatre Royal from 27 June –19 July; Robbie Williams at The Royal Crescent on 13 and 14 June; and Lily Allen at Bath Theatre Royal from 25 July – 23 August
City updates
LEADERSHIP EVENT
Tuesday 21 January sees the first of this year’s free quarterly leadership development events run by Bath Unlimited and Bath Bridge, where participants will engage with the major leadership challenges ahead and have the chance to network with other Bath professionals. Sarah Williment from Farleigh Performance will be joined by Alison Sturgess-Durden, Director at Bath-based business Mayden, in an interactive session, to explore how, as leaders, we can navigate the challenges while enabling those we lead to deliver high performance.
Future events include Work Matters (celebrating International Women’s Day) on 4 March, Exploring AI and AI Governance for Leaders on 17 June and Creating and Leading Inclusive Cultures on 14 October.
Showcasing dynamic, successful, world-class businesses in Bath, Bath Unlimited aims to boost economic confidence locally and to promote the city as a location for inward investment. There are currently 27 businesses profiled, including most recently the Canned Wine Group and animation studio Complete Control. Bath Bridge exists to bridge divides in B&NES, with a current focus on the digital divide supporting digitally excluded communities. It also runs the Bath Future Talent Programme on an annual basis – a leadership development programme for local leaders.
Your Leadership Future in 2025, 21 January, 5.30pm, Newark Works, 2 Foundry Lane, Bath; ticketsource.co.uk; bathunlimited.org
INAUGURAL ANNUAL CONFERENCE: EMPOWERING WOMEN LEADERS
Join the inaugural BANES WLN Conference exploring the empowerment of women leaders in our region. The BANES WLN Conference is an opportunity to connect, to be inspired and empowered; a space to collaborate, learn and develop. The event is organised and hosted by Hannah Wilson, Leadership Development Consultant, Coach and Trainer and Director of Diverse Educators. The network is now 250+ strong so it is an opportunity to develop in-person connections with peers and roles models. Speakers include Ali Bailey, Professor Susan Durbin, Annie Legge, Sadia Ghazanfar, Renée Jacobs and Emma Beeston. Monday 27 January, 9am-4.30pm at Apex Hotel Bath. Tickets: from £125+VAT
REBALANCE BATH
ReBalance Bath is bringing back its Festival of Wellbeing to the city, running from 30 January – 16 February, bringing a roster of diverse events to stimulate mind, body and spirit.
The format, similar to the 2024 festival, will also include a partnership with Bath Arts Collective, who offer a vibrant programme of events, a ReBalance Wellbeing Day on 2 February at Green Park Station with a selection of fitness and mindfulness taster sessions led by a handpicked team of local wellness experts and a wellbeing and vegan market. You can also choose from laughter yoga sessions in the Roman Baths to meditation in Bath Abbey, rooftop pool Aquasana at Thermae Bath Spa and tours of The Pig near Bath’s kitchen gardens, with many tickets available at accessible prices of less than £20. Speakers include lifestyle entrepreneur Millie Mackintosh, James Gwinnett, author of Ready, Set, Life, and Nicola MacDonald, a resilience coach specialising in parenting, technology addiction and mindfulness. Festival curators have made a special effort to include several events focusing on men’s mental health and wellbeing as well as financial wellbeing, thanks to support from headline sponsor Unividual. Tickets are on sale now via Bath BID’s Welcome to Bath website and events are being added all the time. welcometobath.co.uk/rebalance-bath-2025
FINAL STAGES FOR ORTHOPAEDIC CENTRE
The new Sulis Elective Orthopaedic Centre is entering its final build stages, as the team readies the new wing for its launch. The last stages of preparation see the hospital reveal its sustainability plans, including a sustainable travel plan activated across the site.
The Sulis Elective Orthopaedic Centre is the most environmentally friendly building yet to be built at Sulis Hospital. Solar and ground source heat pumps have been installed, which significantly reduce energy consumption while lowering carbon emissions. The building also incorporates low embodied carbon materials.
Sulis Hospital has been part of the RUH family since 2021 and helps to increase capacity whilst decreasing waiting lists. It is the first fully operational private hospital in the UK where 100% of the shares are owned by an NHS Trust. The Centre will create the capacity for an extra 3,750 non-emergency orthopaedic NHS patients across Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire as well as the wider South West region each year, allowing people to have the surgery they need. sulishospital.com
Rachel Powell meditation
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THINGS TO DO IN JANUARY
Feel the groove
The Andy Burden Band, appearing in the Electric Bar at Komedia on 19 January, presents joyful, uplifting and varied songs for those who love upbeat rhythms, singalong choruses and great musicianship. Andy has been playing since the beginning of time, but is now with a band of musicians who have always been trying to find each other! The fun of playing together oozes off the stage as they perform songs that are an eclectic mix of Muddy Waters, Bob Dylan, David Bowie, The Temptations, The Waterboys, The Lumineers and REM. 19 January, 2-4pm, Komedia Bath; komediabath.co.uk
Be inspired
The Gainsborough Bath Spa welcomes Eleanor Mills for January’s Phenomenal Women talk. Mills is a campaigner, company founder, bestsellingauthor and award-winning editor. Her book Much More to Come: Lessons on the Mayhem and Magnificence of Midlife, published in August 2024, is a Times bestseller and she is also the founder of noon.org.uk – a community to help midlife women through pinch points and inspire them to embrace their next act. Tickets £15 from eventbrite.co.uk, and include prosecco and canapés.
Featuring major names of 20th-century art including Francis Bacon, Peter Blake, Pauline Boty, Richard Hamilton, Gerhard Richter and Andy Warhol, Iconic: Portraiture from Francis Bacon to Andy Warhol brings rarely seen works together to explore the ways artists are inspired by photography. Focusing on the mid-20th century when many artists began to use photographs as sources for paintings, the exhibition reflects on the potency of the media and the construction of celebrity.
Opens 24 January, The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath; holburne.org
Delve into perfume creation
Perfume Making Workshops
Parterre not only make their own highly praised eau de parfums, but they also run experiences and workshops, including Make your Own Perfume sessions. During one of these workshops you will be encouraged to rediscover scents you love, and also sample some more unusual fragrant oils.
You will explore the art of blending, learn some theory and have plenty of fun. Then, under expert guidance, you will design and blend your own perfume to take home. There will be lots of sniffing along the way!
Various dates 10 January – 28 March; Parterre Fragrances, 14 Margaret's Buildings, Bath BA1 6LP; parterrefragrances.com
Rejuvenate yourself
Combe Grove, the 70-acre Estate in Bath, is a restful and restorative place for a metabolic health reset. Join them for a series of metabolic health retreats and webinars throughout January. Combe Grove at Home, a transformative 12week online Metabolic Health programme, will launch on 20 January. The final registration date is 10 January. The Metabolic Health Retreat will take place from 27 January – 2 February, alongside complimentary webinars including A New Year of Metabolic Health
Wellbeing on 2 January, Symptoms of Prediabetes on 10 January, Navigating Menopause on 23 January, and Mastering Nutrition for Metabolic Health on 30 January. Book via combegrove.com
Meet Elisabeth Murray, who has recently moved to Bath as the new Senior Curator of Fashion Museum Bath, having previously worked as a curator at the V&A.
How long have you lived in Bath? I moved to Bath in the summer of 2024 – it’s great to get to live in such a beautiful part of the world. The Fashion Museum and its re-development is first and foremost for the residents of BANES, and for me it was essential to immerse myself in the community to understand how the Museum can best serve everyone.
What associations do you have with The Fashion Museum? I have very fond memories of visiting the Museum. Its Collection is designated by Arts Council England as one of outstanding national significance and it was fantastic to see so many beautiful and important pieces on display. There is incredible expertise within the Fashion Museum team, and so it was particularly interesting to see what temporary exhibitions were programmed, and the curatorial approach taken. It’s now a pleasure to get to work with the team behind the shows.
You previously worked as a curator at the V&A. How did this develop your interest in fashion history? I moved to the V&A from Hampton Court and Kensington Palace, where I had worked in the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection. At the V&A I was based in the Textiles and Fashion section and worked across the collection, on gallery displays, learning projects, and on two major exhibitions Africa Fashion and Naomi: In Fashion. It was inspiring to work with so many talented fashion creatives. It was also wonderful to be surrounded by so many colleagues with a textile and fashion specialism.
Why did you decide to work as a curator? I always liked history, and knew I wanted a career in that area. I particularly loved fashion history but thought it was too niche to actually be able to focus on! Little did I know… At this point I had no idea ‘curator’ was even a job – that is one of the reasons I’m so keen to make the different jobs in museums visible, so everyone knows the potential careers open to them. For me, I was lucky
that I did some work experience at a historic house and spent time working with their fashion collection (a polite phrase for some clothes in the trunk in the attic). It was great and I’ve never really looked back.
What are your work priorities for 2025?
The priority for me is familiarising myself with the Collection which contains over 100,000 objects, ranging from haute couture and ready-towear to home dressmaking and high-street fashion. The Collection also has archival material such as fashion publications, photography and designer archives, as well as unique objects such as the only known dress worn by Queen Charlotte housed in a museum collection. Getting to know this vast collection, immersing myself in the local community and getting to know my Fashion Museum colleagues are all key priorities. As you can imagine, I’ve only just begun to scratch the surface!
What sort of care is required for the collection?
Fashion objects, like all items in museum collections, require carefully controlled environmental conditions – such as precise temperature, relative humidity and light levels – to ensure they stay in good condition. Our team monitor and care for the collection at our temporary home at Dents Glovemakers in Warminster. A major priority is the continual cataloguing of the collection, working to expand the knowledge held and recorded about each piece. We also want to make sure everything gets photographed, which is no small task. It may sound quite ephemeral, but good documentation is fundamental to the care of the collection, and the research will all feed into the new Museum.
Do you have a favourite outfit from the collection? I have so many favourites, and they change daily. A piece I find hugely powerful is a menswear ensemble designed by Bianca Saunders for The Missing Thread: Untold Stories of Black British Fashion exhibition at Somerset House in 2023, recently acquired as part of our Dress of the Year programme. Saunder’s look was a celebration of the work of Trinidadian textile artist Althea McNish (1924-2020), one of the first designers of AfricanCaribbean descent to receive international recognition. It marks the work of two incredible creatives and is a powerful reminder of the role fashion plays in sparking and mediating conversation.
The Fashion Museum Bath is temporarily closed for a major transformation to create an eminent new Fashion Museum located in the Old Post Office building in the city centre. For more details, visit fashionmusuem.co.uk
Dress, patchwork, worn by Janet Dorothea Tuke (19071985), England, 1940s.
Happy New Year! But it’s none of that nonsense for The League of Pessimists who want to stay firmly placed in the past and thoroughly disapprove of any newfangled ideas and having fun in any form. They want to keep things with a seriously serious undertone for the new year. And advocate absolutely no smiling.
Dear Bath Magazine
Why, oh why, oh why does the City of Bath have to follow the modern trends and endure the process of accepting a new year? Why, oh why, oh why should we lay down and allow the year of 2025 to be foisted upon us? What on earth is wrong with the past? What on earth is wrong with keeping the old year? What on earth is wrong with staying in 2024? Do you realise that a ‘4’ in my handwriting looks far better than a ‘5’?
Talking of the numeral ‘4’… why didn’t we stay in the 1940s? –things were so much better then – you could leave your front door unlocked, everyone said ‘good morning’ and the butcher had a pencil behind his ear. I admit that World War II was a challenge, but we kept a stiff upper lip, we would ‘make do and mend’ and we would listen to Vera Lynn. Modern music is all boom boom, bang bang and you can’t hear the lyrics.
These days things are far too relaxed, and far too frivolous. It is unacceptable for so many people to wander around with childish grins on their faces. This is why we fully support the National No Smiling Day movement. We urge you all to join in our silent protest
when the day comes around in the next few months. We aim to stop people thinking things are funny and generally undermining the seriousness of causes such as being serious. Stop this nonsense now! Laugh? You must be joking!
It is not just smiling that needs to be ended. It is the new year resolution of The League of Pessimists to identify and stop other things immediately.
A selection of things we want stopped urgently:
Oat milk – if I want porridge, I will cook porridge; Pig in Blanket crisps – oh do grow up;
Websites that prevent you creating a password that you can remember. I am sorry I don’t want a password made of letters, numbers and squiggles in random orders when the name of my dog, Alfie, is secure enough;
Small plates in restaurants. This is a silly thing with not enough space for meat and two veg;
Food served on slates or chunks of wood. Plates! Plates please… but no small plates, obviously;
In Bath, there need to be more roads blocked off to stop traffic driving near my house;
Oldfield Park Station should become a Tube Station and run Elizabeth Line trains;
The Christmas Market makes Bath too busy, so let’s move it to February;
Widcombe has a ‘Courtesy Street’ – we think there should be courtesy streets everywhere as this this sounds like a very nice thing. However no-one actually knows what a Courtesy Street is;
The Theatre Royal and The Rondo Theatre should only programme serious plays. And Komedia should change its name straight away.
I hope you can see that we are the only people talking real sense and telling things as they really are… We are facing up to important truths. If we don’t act now, the city of Bath will become full of people smiling and welcoming people with open arms, which will only encourage people to enjoy themselves, which is not the purpose of the city.
Do come and join us – we will greet you with a grimace.
Yours unsmilingly, The League of Pessimists n naturaltheatre.co.uk
Chinese blue and white porcelain ‘Boys’ bowl, Kangxi period (1662-1722).
£7800 incl. premium A Chinese Longquan celadon porcelain ewer and cover, Song/Yuan dynasty.
rose
century.
Nyonya ware famille
enamel porcelain bowl, 19/20th
PEAK PERFORMANCE
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Kids’ 100% Cotton. T-Shirt with Logo. £55-£59
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A stellar win
The recently announced winner of The Booker Prize 2024 was Samantha Harvey for her novel Orbital. In the words of Guardian reviewer Stephanie Merritt, “Reading Orbital is a dizzying experience; she evokes the texture of daily life in the space station and pans out to sweeping, lyrical descriptions of the natural world, underpinning both with profound questions about our place in the cosmos. It is an extraordinary achievement, containing multitudes.” Emma Clegg talks to Samantha about this seismic yet tender book, as the author adjusts to a changing landscape...
Six astronauts rotate around the Earth in the International Space Station (ISS). They are there to do vital work, but slowly they begin to wonder: what is life without Earth? What is Earth without humanity? This is the concept of Orbital, the novel by Samantha Harvey, announced as the 2024 winner of The Booker Prize in November last year. Since its inception in 1969, the prize has celebrated exceptional fiction, with the judges’ choice of book each year representing the best longform work of fiction written in English and published in the UK and Ireland.
A review by Alexandra Harris in The Guardian praises the novel’s vast, breathtaking scope and its descriptive charge: “From up here, 250 miles above the surface, Japan is a wisp. The Philippines appear ‘scarily frail’. Though the views are on a planetary scale, the object of their mesmerised observation is as intricate as a Fabergé egg… The astronauts who turn and turn through Samantha Harvey’s finely crafted meditation on the Earth, beauty and human aspiration are in the process of understanding themselves in new ways, too.”
Samantha, who teaches creative writing at postgraduate level and is a PhD supervisor at Bath Spa University, explains that her initial motivation wasn’t to write about a space station. “It was to write about the Earth from space, to try to find a vantage point from which to write a kind of pastoral novel.”
For an earthly being who was not an astronaut, watching live stream videos of the Earth from the ISS was the way into this unparalleled endeavour. “I thought, ‘well, that’s such an extraordinary view. And there is so much I feel when I see those images in that video footage – I wonder if I could put that into words?’ So then I started writing.”
Samantha explains that the obvious focus was the space station. “And that, in itself, became more and more interesting as a stage setting, and the idea of pastoral became more poignant and personal. The ISS itself is in its dying days, and in some senses it’s a bit of a rattling relic, because it’s been hurtling around Earth for 25 years, and it encapsulates a sense of an era of (at least attempts at) peaceful cooperation between Russia and the West, and internationally. And the more I looked into it, the more I thought there’s a nostalgia built into that view of the Earth from this space station. You’re looking at the Earth as a damaged system, but also an extraordinarily beautiful planet, and looking from a place that embodies an era that is now in the rear view mirror.”
Was this choice of subject ambitious, given the fact that Samantha leads a low-tech life, without social media accounts or a mobile phone? “I think people find it strange that I haven’t got a mobile phone and yet I’ve written about space, as if these two things are incompatible, but they’re not. Part of this novel was a form of escapism for me. I feel like I was born in the wrong century in some ways – while I love modern
Photograph by David Parry
comforts, I find the world very noisy. I want to get away from the clamour of it. And escaping into space to write the novel comes from that same impulse to get away, to be somewhere quiet. And when I finished writing it, I felt a sense of loss that I don’t normally feel when I finish writing a novel.”
Samantha’s research was enmeshed in the novel’s creation, drawing from resources such as the NASA and the European Space Agency websites, and documents detailing life aboard the ISS. “The research continued all the way through. I love research, and I see it completely continuous with fiction writing – they are feeding one another all the time. Often a piece of research comes along that takes you in a direction you never expected, and that opens this new creative door, so the two things are in harmony with one another.
It’s about the contradictions of repetition and mundaneness against the extraordinariness and majesty of their environment. You know, Africa happens beneath them while they’re vacuuming
“Then, of course, there are the images, the video footage, the photographs – those were the things that I returned to every day, and I wrote from those, because visual imagery is the bedrock of the novel, and I wanted it to feel like a painting.”
One of the most striking features of Orbital is its lack of plot. The novel is divided into 16 chapters, reflecting the 16 revolutions of the space station around Earth over 24 hours. Samantha explains, “It is free of plot, and I always wanted that to be the case. I wanted to write this book in a free, impulsive way, partly because my last book [The Shapeless Unease, 2020] was an account of my insomnia and was written in a completely instinctive way, to the point where it has no narrative architecture. I knew that I couldn’t really do that with a novel, but I wanted to bring across some of that free, instinctive writing that just allows the prose to go wherever it wants to go, just like water flowing.”
Samantha continues, “That was always my intention, and because the book is set over one typical day on the space station, there isn’t any plot, thank goodness. I mean, no astronaut wants there to be a plot! So I wanted to convey that sense of this as a domestic environment.”
The novel offsets the everyday routines of the space station with the magnificent scale of the encompassing ‘landscape’: “It’s a mundane environment: they are doing a lot of housekeeping, they’re doing experiments, and they live by a regimented schedule, and I wanted to get that across in the rhythms of the book, so that while nothing happens, also everything happens. It’s about the contradictions of repetition and mundaneness against the extraordinariness and majesty of their environment. You know, Africa happens beneath them while they’re vacuuming.”
Samantha has always been drawn to using the structure and form of a novel to articulate something fundamental about what is being written that you can’t actually say in words. “Somehow it doesn’t come across powerfully enough if you say it, but if you include it in the structure, then you can articulate it all the more powerfully. That was part of the rationale for setting Orbital over one day, so I could bake into the structure of the novel the sense of the strangeness of time, that in one 24 hour period, the ISS has been around the Earth 16 times.”
Part of this experimentation with language sees her challenging herself around the written structure. “I’m really interested in fiction in writing narratives that don’t depend on conflict. It’s always easier to write something that has conflict in it, because it is a great generator of drama. But what is it to write a narrative that is propulsive and has momentum and makes the reader want to turn the page, but which doesn’t depend on conflict? To keep the whole thing feeling like it’s moving forward, even though ‘nothing’ is happening?”
Samantha’s mastery of the written form has a strong resonance in Bath, where she teaches as a Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing on the MA and as a PhD supervisor at Bath Spa University. There was even a time in the 2000s when she worked at the Herschel Museum, where she was inspired by the scientific discovery of Uranus. “I was very interested in the Herschels and their story, the incredible discovery of Uranus from the back garden, and the fact that it doubled the size of the known Solar System at the time, and the whole endeavour of discovery and scientific progress. Who knows, I’m sure it had some effect on my latest novel, but it wasn’t a direct one!”
At Bath Spa University she finds teaching postgraduates particularly rewarding: “It’s the lovely end of teaching. At postgraduate level there is no level of crowd control – everyone is there every week, and they always do their work. They are so motivated and come to the course with really powerful dreams. It’s always felt like an enormous privilege to work with those people as students, with such interesting, intelligent, brilliant people.”
Teaching also serves as a reflection of her own growth as a writer: “I find that teaching is an interesting mirror for me to see where I am as a writer, which is reflected in the advice I give my students. I frequently think, ‘is something I said 10 years ago true for me anymore?’ Often I’ve changed the way I see something, and so I try to update my teaching practice to reflect that.”
In the short time since she won The Booker Prize, Samantha’s life and perspective has shifted. “In some ways, it hasn’t changed at all, because I have a daily life to go about, and you still find yourself vacuuming and washing up. But in other ways, it’s a fundamental change, because it moves the dial on my work, on my career. I was busy anyway, but it has ramped up another gear, and I’m thinking ahead to how 2025 might look. But the biggest change is that I feel a huge liberation, a huge release of a pressure that I didn’t exactly know was there. This is the ultimate affirmation in the literary world, an enormous validation that even your own sabotaging self can’t undermine.”
Might a trip to space ever be a reality for Samantha? It seems not. “I get travel sick if I sit in the back of a car so I can’t imagine what I’d be like in space – I’d be such a liability and they would probably throw me overboard.” n samanthaharvey.co.uk
Orbital by Samantha Harvey, Vintage Publishing, £9.99
“In an unforgettable year for fiction, a book about a wounded world. Sometimes you encounter a book and cannot work out how this miraculous event has happened. As judges we were determined to find a book that moved us, a book that had capaciousness and resonance, that we are compelled to share. We wanted everything.”
Edmund de Waal, Chair of judges, The Booker Prize 2024
FIVE MINUTES WITH...
David Hill MBE
Renowned for his fine musicianship, David Hill is a widely respected choral and orchestral conductor, and Musical Director of The Bach Choir. This month he is coming to direct Bath Bach Choir's annual Choral Workshop here in Bath – a fabulous day of studying Bach Cantatas, further enhanced by visiting soloists, and open to all. Ahead of his visit, he answers some musical and Bath‐related questions.
Q. What’s special for you about the Bach Cantata Cycle?
To this day, Bach’s artistic vision to create a cantata for every liturgical occasion is a monumental gift to humanity, and Cantata 75 is one of the opening works in this gargantuan task. The cantatas are a major part of the treasure chest of music he wrote for worship: imagine going to church and hearing his genius week by week? Nothing and no-one has surpassed this feat. I am ashamed to say I have never performed Cantata 75 and I am looking forward to working on it over the New Year in preparation for the workshop.
Q. Why do you like making music in Bath?
Anyone who lives in or close to Bath will realise how fortunate they are to reside in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. I am constantly fascinated by the beauty of its architecture, its history and its strong culture of making music. People in the south west are incredibly friendly and there are great places for refreshment including many fine pubs! It is a favourite place for me and always will be.
Q. What is your connection with the Bath Bach Choir?
Ever since I gave an organ recital in Bath Abbey around 50 years ago – yikes! – it is a place I have been lucky to visit from time to time. I am honoured to be associated with the Bath Bach Choir as its President: another fine group of singers acknowledging the iconic figure of J S Bach.
Q. What do you get out of running workshops of just a few hours with a group of singers who you haven’t worked with before?
It is always a joy to see the commitment and enthusiasm people have for joining together in workshops. Choral conductor David Willcocks once told me that the greatest thrill is knowing that it will sound considerably better at the end than when it started! I really enjoy the training aspect, alongside the educational points along the way. During weekly concert rehearsals there isn’t usually time to develop all the strands of interest, so a fun day together really changes the dynamic.
Q. What do you want to leave singers with at the end of the day?
The feeling that they have had fun, and have felt the day to be productive, educational and exhausting! Coming together and singing great music is food in itself and something we can all share.
Q. Are you hopeful for the future of choral music (especially in a city like Bath with its many choirs of all shapes and sizes)?
I am hopeful. The issues facing music in schools need urgently addressing. Singing and playing instruments should not be ignored by
head teachers who aren’t interested or don’t see the importance of music as an education for life. Where it works it is superb; those who don’t see this need to be turned around. There are still more people singing in the UK on a weekly basis than are attending football matches! Covid had a very damaging effect on so many things, including singing, but we are climbing out of that and the sun is shining in the distance. In Bath, I am aware of the many choirs and choices which exist for singers. I think strong leadership and innovative programming are essential for choirs to thrive in a very competitive environment. Education is key to being understood and respected as an arts organisation alongside understanding what diversity means in the community in which you live. We need to reach out to those who have not felt able to join choirs but who would like to. It’s a difficult task, but one we must all undertake.
Q. How do you see choral music linking to younger generations?
If youngsters have had a connection with music – and this is why my earlier point about schools is so important – they will connect to the world of arts in all its richness. The London Bach Choir now has 140 singers below forty and a large number in their twenties. This is progress, alongside seeing an increasingly younger audience attend our annual St Matthew Passion at the Royal Festival Hall. All arts organisations need to become savvy about connecting to the younger generation, especially through social media.
Q. How might it be possible to encourage new audiences? Through communicating more directly to those we want to attract; it is all in the marketing and programming. I firmly believe the audiences are there; we have to reach out to them – it won’t happen in the opposite direction. n
Bath Bach Choir Choral Workshop with David Hill, 25 January, 9.30am–4pm, St Swithin’s Church, The Paragon, Bath. Tickets: £22, £10 for musicians under 30.
What’s on
MUSIC AT GREEN PARK BRASSERIE
n Green Park Brasserie, Green Park Road
Enjoy live jazz/funk/soul/swing at Green Park Brasserie on Weds and Thurs from 6.30–8.45pm and Fri and Sat from 6.30–9.45pm. Music includes dynamic duos, modern trios and a Hot Club style quintet. You can also watch the world go by with 2 for £15 cocktails 7 days a week on the 2 terraces located at the old railway station. greenparkbrasserie.com
LIGHT OF STARS EXHIBITION
Until 11 January, 10am-5pm n Bath Abbey
The Light of Stars is an installation, a vast constellation of love and light, held within the centre of the Abbey. The Light of Stars contains up to 103 individual stars of different sizes and geometries, all surrounding the largest, central star, that represents Christ never dimmed. bathabbey.org
SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS
Until 12 January
n Theatre Royal Bath, Saw Close Mirror, mirror on the wall… What’s the greatest pantomime of them all? Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs at Bath Theatre Royal of course... Olivia Birchenough joins Bath favourites Jon Monie and Nick Wilton. Tickets £9–£42.50. theatreroyal.org.uk
U3A: FANNY BURNEY: LIFE IMITATING ART
9 January, 10.30am–11.30am
n The Pavilion, North Parade Road
The talk will focus on the life of Fanny Burney who resided in Bath and was a popular writer of the 18th century, and Jane Austen’s favourite writer. Her first long visit to Bath was in 1780 shortly after the publication of her first novel, Evelina. Marie-Louise Luxemburg is a writer and family
historian. Doors open at 9.45am for coffee. Free for members, and a donation of £5 for non-members. u3ainbath.uk
NEW YEAR CONCERT – A CEREMONY OF CAROLS 2025
11 January, 7pm
n Bath Abbey
Welcome the New Year with a magical evening of enchanting music sung by the Bath Abbey Girls’ Choir accompanied by the harp. Music includes Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten and the medley of popular Christmas melodies Dancing Day arranged by Sir John Rutter. With Peace On Earth by Errollyn Wallen and Britten’s A New Year Carol, this will be an evening to brighten up the dark days of January. Tickets from £18/under 16s half price. bathboxoffice.org.uk
ALDRIDGE’S OF BATH AUCTION
14 January, 10am (viewing Sat 11 Jan)
n Online
Decorative and household sale, including Victorian, Edwardian, 20th-century and modern household furniture and furnishings, decorative china and glass, pictures and prints, mirrors and rugs. aldridgesofbath.com
ANGRY BOATER: DEEP COMEDY FROM SHALLOW WATERS
15 January, 8pm
n Komedia, 22–23 Westgate Street, Bath
Joel Sanders – the former Las Vegas Comedian who swapped the city for a calm life on the UK’s waterways – floats into Bath. He gave it all up to live on a canal boat and 16 years later, he’s still floating
around, never knowing where the next mooring will be. Angry Boater is about what life is really like as a nomad on the UK’s archaic and unpredictable waterways. Electric Bar, £18. komediabath.co.uk
CINDERELLA
16-19 January, 2pm and 7.30pm
n The Rondo
Cinderella is beautiful, kind and loved by everyone, except for her evil stepmother and wicked stepsisters, whose fashion sense is as loud as they are. On the other side of the kingdom lives the dashing Prince Charming… Will an encounter, a ball, and a touch of magic change Cinderella and the Prince’s fortunes forever? Come and see! Presented by Bath Drama. £14/£12/£10. rondotheatre.co.uk
JANUARY NUTRITION RESET WORKSHOP
17 January, 10am–4pm
n Just Wild Barn, North Hill Farm, Pagans Hill, Chew Stoke, Bristol BS40 8UH
This wellness event is a collaboration between local doctor and nutritionist Alice and Bristol-based chef Ali. The day includes talks on nutrition and how to incorporate nutritious foods and healthy habits into every day. Includes a cooking demo, a fermentation workshop and a delicious lunch by Ali. The day is set in Just Wild Barn, a tranquil rural retreat between Bath and Bristol. Tickets £90.
To book contact alice@dralicemayornutrition.co.uk justwildbarn.com
January Nutrition Reset Workshop, Just Wild Barn
MARTIN HARLEY
17 January, 8pm–10.30pm n Chapel Arts, 9 Lower Borough Walls
Martin Harley has been making music and touring the world for over two decades. His sound has never been more down to earth. Exploring roots, blues and slide guitar in a style The Guardian referred to as ‘Spellbinding’, Harley has released nine albums to date, four recorded on home soil and four across the Atlantic in Texas and Nashville. Tickets £18.50/£20. chapelarts.org
HELEN PICTON: WHY WAIT FOR SPRING?
22 January, 7.30pm–9pm n University of Bath Gardening Club, Room 1 Level 1, East Building, East Car Park, University of Bath, Claverton Down Helen, owner of Old Court Nurseries reminds us that there is much to appreciate in our gardens during the winter, talking about the plants needed for a perfect winter garden, and one that can inspire and encourage action. Open to all, annual membership £25, visitors £8. ubgc.org
SLEEPING BEAUTY
22-25 January, Wed-Fri 7.30pm, Sat 1pm and 5pm n St Philip & St James Church, Odd Down, Bath BA2 2QF
Family pantomime by St Philip & St James Church Drama Group. This show is packed full of music, dance, larger-than-life characters and a few surprises, so not to be missed! Tickets £10 adults and OAPs, £6 children (under 18) excl. booking fee. ticketsource.co.uk/spsjdrama or call 01225 835228 (Mon-Fri 9-1pm and 2-5pm).
AN EVENING OF (VERY) OLD RADIO WITH PAUL KERENSA
24 January, 7.30pm n Bath Abbey
Comedian, writer and broadcast historian Paul Kerensa brings his stand-up history show that informs, educates and entertains about the BBC’s origins. Hear about the first firsts of broadcasting, and the unheralded pioneers, including unsung first female wireless innovators. All wrapped in a fun tale, with real 1920s radio and gramophone player! Tickets from £8. bathboxoffice.org.uk
I CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S NOT BUDDY
25 January, 8pm–10.30pm n Chapel Arts, St.James's Memorial Hall, Lower Borough Walls, Bath Buddy Holly & The Crickets are brought back to life as they looked and sounded on their first tour of the UK in 1958 by the outstanding Spencer J & the Copy-Cat Crickets. This is a non-stop rock ‘n’ roll concert from the fifties with songs such as Peggy Sue, That’ll Be The Day, La Bamba, and Shake Rattle & Roll. Tickets £20/£22. chapelarts.org
AQUASANA IN THE ROOFTOP POOL
26 January, 8am (and also 1 Feb and 15 Feb, as part of ReBalance Bath Festival) n Thermae Bath Spa, Hot Bath Street, Bath Explore mind, body and soul with Bex Bridgford for a morning of Aquasana in the Rooftop Pool followed by a Thermae Welcome two-hour spa session. Aquasana includes classic yoga postures combined with gentle tai chi and invigorating karate moves in the spa’s mineral-enriched waters. This class harnesses the healing properties of the waters, leaving you feeling cleansed, and rejuvenated. £50. eventbrite.co.uk
WEDDING & CELEBRATIONS
OPEN DAY
26 January, 11am–3pm n Bailbrook House Hotel, Eveleigh Avenue, London Road West, Bath Held in the beautiful Mansion House this open day is the perfect event to help you collect inspiration and information for your celebration. The team will be on hand to answer any questions and to discuss your requirements. handpickedhotels.co.uk/bailbrookhouse
BANES WLN INAUGURAL ANNUAL CONFERENCE: EMPOWERING WOMEN LEADERS
27 January, 9am-4.30pm
EVENTS AT BRLSI
JOHN THOMSON: THROUGH CHINA WITH A CAMERA
6 January, 7.30pm–9pm
Deborah Ireland introduces the China recorded through the lens of John Thomson, one of the great figures in the history of photography. £3-£6.
SECRET BATH: THE CITY’S HIDDEN SIGHTS
8 January, 7.30pm–9pm
Bath is known for its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture. But what of other periods of history, its industrial heritage, and green spaces? Karen Warren‘s Secret Bath uncover some lesser-known sights. £3-£6.
CAMERA VISION: AN INTRODUCTION TO CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY
9 January, 7pm–9pm
A six-part Creative Photography Workshop with Benedict Brain and refine your artistic approach to photography. £80-£100.
WHAT HAS THE NATIONAL LOTTERY DONE FOR BATH?
15 January, 7.30pm–9pm
Caroline Kay looks at the way the National Lottery has shaped heritage funding nationwide and in the Bath area. What would we have done without it? £3-£6.
THE STATE OF SCIENCE IN 19TH-CENTURY ENGLAND
18 January, 2.30pm–4pm
Professor Frank James revisits the opening address to the BRLSI given by Sir George Smith Gibbes on 21 January 1825, which considered the state of science at that time in England, especially Bath. £4-£8.
n BRLSI, 16 Queen Square, Bath brlsi.org
n Apex City of Bath Hotel, James Street West, Bath BA1 2DA
Here is an opportunity to connect, to be inspired and to be empowered; a space to collaborate, learn and develop. WLN’s 250+ strong network is an opportunity to develop in-person connections with peers and roles models. This is an inclusive event for existing and aspiring women leaders in all sectors, from the region, and beyond. Hosted by Hannah Wilson, founder of BANES WLN. Early bird ticket: £125+VAT/ full ticket £150+VAT). eventbrite.co.uk
Martin Harley at Chapel Arts
WEDDING OPEN EVENING
30 January, 7pm-9pm n Roman Baths & Pump Room
Meet the team at the multi award-winning Roman Baths & Pump Room and see how the venue might look on your own wedding day. The caterer, Searcys, will be on hand with chilled fizz and nibbles, and you’ll be able to meet handpicked suppliers. Light refreshments available. bathvenues.co.uk/wedding-open-evening
ELAINE DELMAR
31 January, 7.30pm n Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford on Avon Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn – British jazz singer Elaine Delmar has been compared to all the greats – and with good reason. Daughter of acclaimed jazz trumpeter Leslie “Jiver” Hutchinson, Elaine’s an accomplished jazz singer and performer and she’s coming to Bradford on Avon with a very special evening showcasing her acclaimed interpretations of the Great American Songbook. Expect music from the likes of Jerome Kern, Cole Porter, Rodgers & Hart, George Gershwin, and Stephen Sondheim. £24/£13 U18s + students. wiltshiremusic.org.uk
LOOKING AHEAD
GUIDO SANT’ANNA & BATH PHILHARMONIA
14 February 7.30pm
n Bath Forum
A Concert for Valentine’s Day full of brooding musical romanticism, fabled love, passion and heartbreak featuring internationally acclaimed Brazilian violinist Guido Sant’Anna performing Johannes Brahms’ Violin Concerto. Tickets £37.50/£32.50/£27.50/£5. bathboxoffice.org.uk
MILLIE MACKINOSH – BAD DRUNK
1 February, 7.30pm–9.30pm
n The Apex City of Bath Millie Mackintosh went alcohol free after observing the impact drinking alcohol was having on her health and wellbeing. More than two years into her sober journey, Millie shares her experience, from the events that led her to stop drinking through to the positive effects of being alcoholfree. Part of the ReBalance Bath Festival, organised by the Bath Arts Collective. batharts.co.uk; welcometobath.co.uk n
U3A: THE GHOSTS OF PASSCHENDAELE
6 February, 10.30am–11.30am n The Pavilion, North Parade Road
Author Frederick Petford shares the fascinating history behind his novel The Ghosts of Passchendaele, taking in the formation of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission during the Great War, and the remarkable survival of witchcraft in the Cotswolds. Doors 9.45am for coffee. Free members/£5 nonmembers. u3ainbath.uk n
JANUARY EVENTS AT THE BATH & COUNTY CLUB
• INDIAN THEMED EVENING
Friday 10th January, 6 for 6.30pm.
A Selection of different plates to enjoy. £30. Bar open, soft drinks & coffee available.
• SUNDAY CARVERY & COFFEE
Sunday 12th January, 12.30 for 1pm. Friends welcome. £29.
• TALK by Jacqueline Burrows
Friday 17th January, 6 for 6:30pm
“The Big Bang Theory History of the Bath and County Club that you may not know” followed by 2-course supper. £27.
• FILM EVENING WITH INTERVAL BUFFET
Tuesday 21st January, 5:30 for 6pm Showing “Becoming Jane” £20 for film and Buffet.
• BURNS NIGHT
Friday 24th Jan. 6.30 for 7 pm.
3 courses: Haggis, Neeps & Tatties & a dram of Whiskey. Black Tie or Tartan. £50.
Event Venue: Queens Parade, Bath BA1 2NJ. Booking Essential. Email: secretary@bathandcountyclub.com or Tel 01225 423732.
Arts & exhibitions
Jennifer Anderson, throughout January, Beaux Arts, 12-13 York Street, Bath
In their winter Exhibition Beaux Arts are showcasing the work of Jennifer Anderson, featured recently on Sky’s Portrait Artist of the Year. Painters on show include Akash Bhatt, Alex Callaway, Graham Dean, Nathan Ford, Mark Johnston, Melissa Franklin Sanchez. Beautiful Limoges porcelain ceramics are by Chris Keenan and ceramic sculptures by Nick Mackman beauxartsbath.co.uk
8 Holland Street: Salon, until 25 January, 23 Brock Street, Bath
‘8 Holland Street: Salon’ reimagines the classical salon format, showcasing a diverse range of 20th century and contemporary artworks across a variety of mediums and themes. The display presents over 350 works, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the salon-style arrangement and inviting engagement with each piece while considering its relationship to the whole. The exhibition encapsulates the spirit of creativity and exploration that defines 8 Holland Street, positioning it as a space where art can thrive in all its diverse forms. Art is also on exhibition at their flagship gallery in St James’s Park, London. 8hollandstreet.com
Iconic: Portraiture from Francis Bacon to Andy Warhol, 24 January –5 May, The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath
Featuring major names of 20th-century art including Francis Bacon, Peter Blake, Pauline Boty, Richard Hamilton, Gerhard Richter and Andy Warhol, the exhibition brings rarely seen works from private collections together with loans from major institutions to explore the ways artists used photography as a source and as subject matter, reflecting on the potency of the media and the construction of celebrity. holburne.org
The end of last year saw the transformation of the beautiful and newly redecorated shared space of The Empire hallway. The Empire, a Grade II-listed building constructed in 1901 as a grand hotel, now houses 43 luxury flats. Its traditional interior with its grand, late Victorian period features has always previously been complemented by traditional paintings and portraits. After the redecoration of the hallway last year all this changed when art consultant Sandra Higgins, in collaboration with the residents of The Empire, brought in a new selection of wallmounted artwork by nine contemporary artists who she represents. The selection of work will be refreshed every two months, enabling all residents and invited guests to participate in a stimulating art dialogue.
The current selection, which is in place until the end of January, features the work of artists Lynn Baxter, Brian Baxter, Louisa Burnett-Hall, Belinda Crozier, Sammy Dent, Maxine Foster, Fiona McIntyre, Ruth Piper and Mary Romer and the 10 artworks on show include abstract paintings, figurative landscapes, prints, watercolours and collage/mixed media. Sandra says, “The juxtaposition of contemporary art set within the splendour of the foyer and main hall is tremendously exciting.” Many of the artists are featured in the online gallery at sandrahiggins.art.
Viewing is by appointment only by contacting Sandra Higgins at sandra@sandrahiggins.com sandrahiggins.art
Clockwise, from top left: artwork by Belinda Crozier, Lyn Baxter, Mary Romer and Brian Baxter
Sandra Higgins Art Project, The Empire, Grand Parade, Bath
Artwork by Louisa Burnett-Hall
Sister, Oil on canvas by Jennifer Anderson
Mark Elliott Smith – Crescendo, 7–31 January, Sandra Higgins Art, Milsom Place, 41 Milsom Street, Bath BA1 1DN
Great art should be socially, emotionally and culturally liberating, dynamic and exciting, while visually and distinctively appealing. This exhibition of the work of Mark Elliott Smith, like much of his work, epitomises this dream. In Smith’s paintings, the painted, often pure white background creates a space from which the imagery can arise. There is a rhythm and symmetry tied in with the apparent chaotic nature in the work. Almost synaesthetically, counterpoint, timbre and melody can be heard while viewing the paintings, in the contrasts of colour, hue and tone. There is a figurative, dance-like aspect in the work, each painting forming a composition, a dance in motion, shapes making patterns in space, such as in ceremonial dance with costumes and flying colours. Private view 7 January, 6pm-8pm. sandrahiggins.art
Remembered / Imagined?
13 January – 15 March, The Galleries, Freshford Lane, Freshford BA2 7UR
Taking colour for a dance rather than 'a line for a walk’ is one aspect of Gail Mason’s work, where speed and gesture combined with periods of reflection and careful editing result in paintings that allow the viewer a space for daydreaming. Offering a sense of perspective, inviting reflection, and celebrating the restorative and hopeful aspects of our world. Gail’s work is characterised by exuberant gestural paintings of semi-abstract landscapes. It looks to nature to inspire and delight, creating fictive environments and revelling in colour, which is used to set the emotional tone. Gail is a multi award-winning artist, and exhibits widely. galleriesshop.co.uk gailmason.co.uk; Instagram @gailmason1
The Battle Of All Possibilities Great And Small In The Eye Of A Needle, acrylic on canvas, 160 x 160 cm
Ripple,
acrylic on cotton rag paper, 76 x 56cm
Bath Art Fair
children and a team of friends who make up the ‘green fairies’ who help the artists unload and set up, and ensure the fair runs smoothly.
Somerset artist Alce Harfield initially set up the Bath Art Fair in a field by a farm shop just outside Bath. Now it runs twice a year at Bath Pavilion – Alce explains what makes the fair special and introduces two unique collaborations that strengthen its offering to artists.
With experience as an artist of selling her work across the country at art fairs for 20 years, and frustrated that there wasn’t one close to home, Alce decided to remedy this by setting up Bath Art Fair. Her 20 years’ experience in selling put her in a unique position to help other artists keen to represent themselves and their work. In the organisation of the fairs Alce specialises in ‘hand holding’, offering advice to new artists on everything from how to present their work to what to show – and everything in between.
Alce fell in love with the concept of an art fair when she saw the advantages she gained from being able to chat face to face with her customers in a relaxed environment. She discovered that from a customer’s point of view there is nothing more special than learning about the techniques and inspiration direct from the creator.
Now in its ninth year Alce says, “It’s been a massively steep learning curve – going from painting pretty pictures to running an art fair and the pressure of up to 90 other artists’ success on my shoulders. I’ve had to learn about negotiating with venues and stand and lighting contractors, and organising insurance, advertising and promotion, all of which I handle personally. I’m immensely proud that my artists return year on year and of the reviews we’ve had from both artists and customers. I put this down to the personal touch I offer and the fact that I treat my artists as my customers. We are also the first art fair in the country to have a strong ‘green policy’, using only use eco paper bubble wrap and recycling our banners into usable tote bags.
During the weekend of the fair Alce is joined by her husband and two
Throughout the years Alce has donated original paintings of Glastonbury Festival and has raised over £10,000 for local charities including Children’s World, Dorothy House Hospice and Bath Welcomes Refugees (who are being supported by the fair in February 2025).
Alce says, “On the surface the Bath Art Fair looks like a ‘one woman band’ but its success is due to its collaborations with local women such as Lucy Housley and Becca Luger who bring their own special skill sets to the table.” alceharfield.com
The next Bath Art Fair takes place at Bath Pavilion, 23–25 February 2025. For tickets and a preview of artists visit bathartfair.co.uk
Lucy Housley, social media expert
Lucy brings over 12 years of expertise in brand marketing and social media management to the Bath Art Fair team. Using her experience in Meta Advertising and organic social media strategies, Lucy manages the event’s social platforms, targeting the right audiences to drive engagement, raise awareness, and increase footfall.
During 2024, content produced to promote the two Bath Art Fairs in February and September reached over 75,000 people on social media, and the artists involved in turn reported a boost in their own social media following, so crucial for independent artists.
Lucy loves to support small and medium-sized organisations, delivering impactful results through creative communication and strategic planning. She is a unique contact for small businesses looking for extra support during events or for project-based work.
Becca Luger, film-maker
Becca has always loved the creative scene in the West Country with its many interesting artists and creatives.
“As a film-maker I love being able to showcase the work of artists, to tell the story of their craft and to bring all of those rich details to life. I’ve worked with creatives including textile artists, print-makers and ceramicists who have commissioned me to make short films either for their website or as part of an exhibition, or to document a public art project. Each one has offered a fascinating insight into our rich creative landscape. I’m now looking forward to partnering with the Bath Art Fair in February to showcase some of the artists and their work.”
beccaluger.co.uk; Instagram: @beccaluger
Wendy Calder Ceramics, still of film by Becca Luger Bath Art Fair customers
Artist Claire Henley with a customer
Alce and the Green Fairies
Lots to discover for every collector at Winter Fine Art Auction at Lawrences Fine Art Auctioneers
Lawrences Fine Art Auctioneers located in Crewkerne, Somerset is excited to announce its next sale in its busy auction calendar – The Winter Fine Art Auction. The sale goes under the hammer between Tuesday 15th and 16th January at its Crewkerne Saleroom.
With such a diverse auction, there is so much for the collector to see and add to their own collection from fine silver, pictures and decorative arts to ceramics, fine jewellery and furniture and everything in between, this three-day auction is one not to be missed.
One of the standout lots in the ceramics section is a Martin Brothers Grotesque bird. The ‘Wally’ bird jars are some of the most sought-after and distinctive pieces of Martinware. Produced by Robert Wallace Martin, a member of the Martin Brothers pottery in London, these creations stand out for their unusual and often grotesque designs. The Martin Brothers, known for their unique and often whimsical approach to pottery, created these jars from around the 1880s onward. The ‘Wally’ birds, in particular, are characterised by their rough, handformed shapes, often resembling birds but with a strong human influence.
was one of the three Ancient Military Orders bestowed by the Portuguese Monarchs. Dissolved in 1910 with the fall of the Portuguese monarchy, it was revived in 1917 within the Portuguese Republic, headed by the President of Portugal, as a decoration in recognition of outstanding service to the state.
There is plenty for the connoisseur of paintings. Six exceptional works from a private collection in Dorset show the late owner’s breadth of taste: Three highlights from this collection comprises superb oils by Eugene Boudin (1824-1898), the French master of beach scenes, marines and skies. Having trained under Jean Francois Millet, his love of painting outdoors led to his encouraging a young Claude Monet to do likewise. Boudin exhibited with the Impressionists in their first exhibition in 1874 and he is considered to be the vital transitional figure between the Romanticism of Corot and ‘La Vie Moderne’ as shown by the Impressionists. The three pictures, depicting boats and bustling life at Deauville, Trouville and on the River Touques range from £12000-18000 to £25000-35000 apiece.
Robert Wallace Martin’s skill in creating these works, combining artistic flair with a touch of the macabre, led to their high regard among collectors of antique ceramics today. This example is dated for 1891, and despite some damages it is still expected to make £3000-5000 in our January Fine Art Sale.
Notable pieces in the jewellery section include a fine diamond three stone ring that has an auction estimate of £15,000-20,000, a late Georgian/early Victorian suite of topaz jewellery with an auction estimate of £4000 - £6000 and a 19th century neck badge of the Portuguese Order of Christ that has an estimate of £50008000. The Order of Christ was created in the early 14th century for surviving knights of the Knights Templar, which had been disbanded in 1312. It was secularized in 1789 and
So if seeing all these fine lots in the auction wants you to find out more, you can see all these fine lots and more at lawrences.co.uk.
If you have an item or collection and would like to know its value, please get in touch for a free, no obligation valuation.
T. 01460 73041
E. enquiries@lawrences.co.uk
The Linen Yard, South Street, Crewkerne TA18 8AB
2025 Bath welcomes
Yikes, it’s January! There’s magic in new beginnings (so they say), but this month can be a tough one to embrace as you crawl your way out of the end‐of‐year revelries and find yourself face to face with real life (without any twinkling lights) and the expectations of a new year. Don’t fret, however, as 2025 in Bath is already shaping up – here are 10 forward‐looking commentaries from different sectors of the city.
Within Bath’s vibrant business and third sectors resides a wealth of leadership talent. As our world becomes ever more uncertain, we must double down on investing in our people – as our most important asset, they will be the orchestrators that shape our future.
Last year marked a milestone for us, as the largest cohort of leaders since the programme’s inception in 2016 participated in the Bath Future Talent Programme. This leadership development programme, created by Bath Bridge – a local community interest company – remains a source of immense pride for me as Programme Director. I firmly believe that investing in current and future leaders has never been more critical.
In a world growing increasingly complex, the challenges ahead demand a new kind of leadership. The signs for the year ahead points towards turbulence across all sectors, with organisations potentially facing workforce reductions, restructuring, and adapting to the
“Crucially leaders will need to embrace complexity and uncertainty, understanding that not all problems have definitive solutions.”
transformative impact of AI. These changes are a compelling case for us to rethink the future of work. Leaders of tomorrow must adopt a more adaptive, human-centred approach to foster inclusive cultures where every individual can thrive.
Crucially, leaders will need to embrace complexity and uncertainty, understanding that not all problems have definitive solutions. Leadership today requires cultivating comfort with the discomfort of ‘not knowing’ and shifting from rigid, planned outcomes to emergent, responsive strategies.
This year’s Future Talent Programme will aim to equip leaders with broader perspectives, enabling them to navigate complexity, balance diverse viewpoints, and appreciate that leadership is no longer a one-size-fits-all endeavour. Together, we’ll prepare them to lead with agility and humanity. bathbridge.co.uk/bath-future-talent-programme
andDirector of CamellaE Agent
“2025 promises stability and a strong start, with buyer demand buoyed by the potential for further interest rate cuts”
The Bath property market in 2024 truly was a story of two halves. The year started on a high, with buyer demand surging and sales agreed up by 20% between January and March compared to the same period in 2023. However, in March, mortgage rates crept higher, with the average five-year rate hitting 4.84%.
Spring and summer brought mixed results. April and May saw increased buyer activity, driven by the excitement of sporting events and a looming election. Yet challenges persisted, particularly the lengthy time from sales agreed to completion, averaging 154 days (five months). By June, while buyer activity remained up year-onyear, election uncertainty led to fewer new properties entering the market.
Post-election, optimism returned. August saw the Bank of England deliver its first interest rate cut, followed by another in November. The average two-year fixed mortgage dropped from 6.86% in July 2023 to 5.09% by November 2024. This spurred a late-year bounce, as buyers rush to complete purchases before stamp duty changes due in April 2025.
Looking ahead, 2025 promises stability and a strong start, with buyer demand buoyed by the potential for further interest rate cuts. However, factors such as global conflicts, economic uncertainty, and inflation will undoubtedly shape the market.
Bath remains resilient, and with solid fundamentals, and the year ahead looks optimistic for both buyers and sellers.
Melissa Anderson launched Camella in March 2023 on Batheaston High Street and has recently opened a second branch in Bear Flat. camella.co.uk
“While hospitality continues to feel cost pressures, this motivates me to improve what we do and the experience our guests receive.”
Food and drink in Bath continues to go from strength to strength. There are more openings creating healthy competition and a diverse market – all offering customers great choice and value. Encouraging all independent businesses to thrive is crucial as this adds to the retail mix that makes our city a fantastic place to live, work and visit – please support them.
In 2025, Bath celebrates the 250th birthday of its most famous former resident, author Jane Austen, with a range of events, activities, exhibitions, shows, experiences, and hotel packages to mark the occasion. There are also two summer balls and a December ball, offering the opportunity to dress up to the Regency nines. visitbath.co.uk
This year will be another significant one for Bath Pizza Co and Green Park Brasserie, which marks 33 years of trade for us. However, business is tougher than ever and while hospitality continues to feel cost pressures, this motivates me to improve what we do and the experience our guests receive. That could be anything from enjoying our award-winning pizza, drinking cocktails in the sunshine on the terrace or soaking up our live music and buzzing atmosphere inside the restaurant.
Last year we merged our two menus and opened our new speakeasy bar and kitchen Upstairs, behind the red curtain. We’re really excited to see where this year takes us as we create more jobs and contribute economic growth.
As an independent business I feel a deep sense of custodianship to our premises and the city which is why we’ll be supporting some fantastic festivals, events and campaigns throughout the year for the city. I hope to announce some of these shortly. In my role as a Board Director at Bath BID I’m working on Bath Restaurant Week (this May), which will celebrate food and drink in the city and will offer some mouthwatering moments... keep your eyes peeled. bathpizzaco.com; greenparkbrasserie.com
Food & beverage
Looking back on 2024 makes me reflect on a year that was filled with growth, lessons, and opportunities in my hypnotherapy practice. The year was both rewarding and challenging, as I’ve worked with many clients to help them reduce anxiety, build confidence, and embrace lasting change. It’s been a privilege to witness their journeys and be a part of their transformation.
One of the highlights of 2024 was completing my Integral Eye Movement Therapy (IEMT) training. This has proven to be an incredibly valuable addition to my practice, providing clients with an effective way to address anxiety, trauma, and limiting beliefs. Additionally, I continued focusing on integrating breathwork into hypnotherapy sessions. After completing a CPD (Continuing Professional Development) course, I’ve seen how powerful breathing techniques can aid relaxation and facilitate deeper emotional release. This experience has inspired me to take the next step in my professional development, training to become a fully qualified Breathwork Coach in January 2025. This new skill will enhance my ability to help clients achieve balance and resilience. Looking ahead, 2025 brings exciting possibilities but also challenges. Like many, I face anxieties about managing time,
balancing work and training, and ensuring I continue providing the best support to my clients. However, I remain committed to stepping into these challenges with the same mindset I encourage in others: having a belief in progress as well as the courage to grow.
Here’s to a year of breathing deeply and stepping boldly into the future!
hypnotherapyandhealth.co.uk
“I’ve seen how powerful breathing techniques can aid relaxation and facilitate deeper emotional release.”
DBusiness to Business support
ecember was a challenging month for Bath with storms and practical challenges making it difficult to maintain the welcome that we would normally wish to offer visitors and residents. Nevertheless, here at Bath Business Improvement District (BID), we continue to dedicate ourselves to making the city cleaner, safer and more welcoming with our team of Rangers, Marshals and Welcome Ambassadors – do say hello if you see them out and about.
A highlight of 2024 was an invitation to the RHS Britain in Bloom awards with the inspirational volunteers of Bath in Bloom, where we won overall and in our category. Next year Bath BID will represent the South West in the BID category. Surprisingly the RHS judges aren’t only interested in hanging baskets, looking for a combination of community, environment and horticulture. We start our campaign with Love our City Week from Valentine’s Day onwards. Look out for our team joining in with a super spring clean.
On a more serious note, the national picture for high streets and retail is a changing one. In Bath, alongside the experiences on offer, we are fortunate to have a mix of favourite national chains alongside unique independents. If you have one resolution left for the New Year, make it to cherish our wonderful shops and restaurants in the city centre. There have been lots of new arrivals this year which is a great reason to come and visit your city. bathbid.co.uk
“If you have one resolution left for the New Year, make it to cherish our wonderful shops and restaurants in the city centre.”
I’m a stand up comedian and I produce comedy shows and festivals with my events company, Pop-Up Comedy, in the Bath and Frome area, including Rode Comedy Festival which is entering its sixth year.
I’m writing this while backstage at the panto I’m performing in Leicester, wearing a costume that is louder than Brian Blessed with a megaphone. Panto might be all about “he’s behind you!” But the Bath comedy scene is very much “it’s all ahead of you”.
Is there an award for best segue? It would be nice to be nominated. Just like Bath Komedia has been nominated several times for ‘best comedy venue in the south west’. Look out, I’ve segued again.
Bath has superb comedy nights: Bath Forum, Komedia, The Jesters and Rondo Theatre, plus the annual Bath Comedy Festival. This year is bringing some big names. The Forum will have John Bishop, Chris McCausland, Jason Manford, Sara Pascoe, and a four-night run from the magnificent Greg Davies. Komedia will have Milton Jones, Jenny Eclair, Lou Sanders, Myra Dubois, and The Rondo will have Harriet Kemsley and Spencer Jones. Most of these previewed their shows with us at our Pop-Up Comedy events recently, and I can confirm they will not disappoint!
Komedia on a Saturday night brings some of the UK’s finest professional stand-ups to Bath, and a new grass roots comedy club
‘The Jesters’ is offering great value shows showcasing up-andcoming acts. A night out filled with laughs is easily found in Bath.
I’ll end on a quote: ‘Laughter makes the good times gooder and the bad times better but has done nothing for my grammar’.
That’s my entry to the best quote competition. Fingers crossed it does better than my segues. Popupcomedy.org @jarredchristmascomedian
Wellbeing
Al Herbert, Chi ef Executive
L“The seismic changes and the substantial tax increases brought about by the Autumn 2024 budget have left many concerned about how this will impact them.”
LrCoopers H ome Applianc Le
“We maintain the upbeat philosophy that the business should never stand still, whatever the market conditions”
ast year was a challenging one for retailers in the city. The first part of the year was very slow, with people concerned about the economic conditions and the rise in living costs. It wasn’t until September that buyers started to come back more significantly, and in most cases I believe this was because they were not prepared to put off any longer the improvements and upgrades they wanted for their homes. To a degree, as a retailer of premium kitchen appliances and electrical products, our business was less affected than some, as the premium goods market tends to be more robust.
We also maintain the upbeat philosophy that the business should never stand still, whatever the market conditions, and we have continued to actively develop our products and our services and to be nimble and maximise opportunities. The upturn in sales in the autumn has thankfully continued since and we are feeling positive about 2025.
The new year also brings a significant new collaborative retail project for us because we have joined forces with Ben Argent Kitchens and Boniti Flooring at Dunsdon Barn (Dunsdown Lane, West Littleton), creating a showroom, which launches formally on 2 January, in a single space that will host a trio of luxury lifestyle brands in kitchens, flooring and appliances. This expansion has created three new full-time jobs for us, and the Coopers team will be moving around between both sites, so they can get to know the different people and ways of selling.
Coopers in Walcot Street continues to bring in new and interesting brands and we are now the main agent for Aga, Everhot and La Cornue, also all available in the Dunsdon Barn showroom. We know that next year won’t be plain sailing but we will continue to work hard to identify new opportunities as we have always done. coopershomeappliances.com; dunsdonbarn.com
ast year, significant legal changes in the UK in 2024 brought a stronger focus on workers’ rights and workplace protections.
Flexible working became a right from the first day of employment, carers gained a statutory entitlement to one week of unpaid leave annually, and maternity, adoption and shared parental leave saw extended redundancy protections.
dwood, Mo gers Drewett
The National Living Wage also increased to £11.44 per hour for workers aged 21 and over and employers were mandated to ensure fair distribution of customer tips. A statutory duty to prevent workplace sexual harassment was introduced, with penalties for non-compliance. This will continue into 2025 as more Employment Law tightening is predicted. There were also significant changes in the Renters Rights Bill affecting renters and landlords alike – including the proposed abolition of no fault section 21 evictions – and these are proposed to become law towards the end of 2025.
The seismic changes and the substantial tax increases brought about by the Autumn 2024 budget have left many concerned about how this will impact them and Mogers Drewett will continue to provide advice to both private and corporate customers throughout 2025. The company is also across its four offices increasing both its digital engagement and networking events this year to help people and businesses inform themselves and adapt around the big changes ahead. mogersdrewett.com
Image courtesy of Visit West
Coopers
IDr C Stephens, Di rector, TheH
am delighted to report that 2024 was a bumper year for the Holburne with record-breaking audiences and innovative and far-reaching learning and engagement activities at the museum and beyond. The coming year promises to be equally exciting; we have an amazing range, as we pursue our mission to bring great art to Bath, with major figures like J.M.W. Turner, Francis Bacon and Andy Warhol alongside contemporary artists from around the world, from Los Angeles to Oldfield Park. Most importantly, in the summer we will be unveiling a reconfigured lower ground floor with a new gallery of Renaissance treasures of international importance. Although one of our key values is relevance, sometimes one can’t but feel helpless in the face of the seemingly unrelenting bad news of recent times, with war and unconscionable suffering in so many places combined with the rise of an intolerant far right. But art can offer solace and catharsis as it transcends any one time to explore and reflect upon our existence and our relationship with the natural world. With creativity, it embodies the liberal, humanitarian values of tolerance and understanding and that is why, of all the things we do, I am most proud of our work with local schools, helping to ensure creativity remains a key part of young people’s development - surely a sound investment for the future. holburne.org
“Art can offer solace and catharsis as it transcends any one time to explore and reflect upon our existence and our relationship with the natural world”
Impressions in Watercolour: Turner and his Contemporaries exhibition, 23 May – 31 August 2025, at the Holburne Museum
e Museu m
“Education is changing more rapidly at the moment than at any other time I can remember”
Having just joined Royal High School Bath GDST as Head, I’m embracing its defining ethos of girls first with no limitations on what they can achieve. My previous role was as head of a girls’ school in the North of England, and my focus has always been about happily empowering students to be everything they want to be, an approach underpinned with kindness and care. I love being in my school and living this reality. It’s palpable. I want every student to have every opportunity to achieve, preparing them for a future without limits.
Education is changing more rapidly at the moment than at any other time I can remember. It’s not just AI or the changing nature of the future job market we are all doing our best to prepare students for. It’s also a post pandemic hangover of anxiety and a skills gaps that is silently traumatising huge numbers of school-age children, on top of a financial pressure of VAT being applied to school fees. However, this is the time when it’s most important to lean into what we are best at. And in the girls’ school that I lead this is all about warmth, sisterhood and nurturing, combined with academic rigour.
The evidence showcasing the transformative power of single-sex schooling stands out. Girls’ schools have consistently proven to be supportive environments that empower young women, from their earliest years to their launch into adulthood, enabling them to become the architects of their futures. I live and breathe this every day in school. We need to offer our young people an education that is not only rooted in tradition but is also forwardthinking and relevant for the 21st century – that is what 2025 will all be about for me.
Given all the volatility in the world at the moment, the wider community of the network of GDST schools provides reassurance, resilience and creativity. Together, we remain steadfast in our dedication to excellence and to providing outstanding value for families. It is a truly exciting time to be a girl, and Royal High Bath is proud to lead the way in shaping their futures.
royalhighbath.gdst.net n
‘New year sale!’
Secrets of the microbiome
Professor Tim Spector has presented his work on the unexplained missing link between genetics and disease – the human microbiome – to worldwide audiences. His appearance in Bath this month, in conversation with presenter Gaby Roslin, will give fascinating insights into transforming everyday meals into gut‐friendly, health‐promoting experiences, says Emma Clegg.
When you talk to an awardwinning epidemiologist, doctor and science writer who is working on t he relationship between nutrition, the gut microbiome and health, then asking what he had for breakfast is all par for the course.
Tim Spector told me on the day I spoke to him that he had eaten breakfast at midday, when he had an M&S Food X ZOE Gut Shot with a handful of berries. He passes it off as a snatched ‘breakfast on the go’, but it has impact because the gut shot is packed with over fivebillion live cultures from 14 strains of bacteria, and is high in fibre. It’s also produced by ZOE, the science and nutrition company that Tim co-founded in 2017.
Tim is a Professor of Epidemiology at King’s College London. Recognised for his impactful work during the pandemic, he has been at the forefront of groundbreaking discussions on health and diet. His research emphasises the importance of gut health, the benefits of eating a variety of plants weekly, and how diet can influence health even more than genetics.
For Tim it all started with his work at King’s College on the world’s largest identical twins study, TwinsUK. “I became interested in genetics in about 1992, thinking that it was really the main driver of everything. From that point I didn’t find any differences between identical twins until a moment in 2011 when we measured the microbiome for the first time. When we got the first results, we saw how different the gut microbes were in identical twins, which was the first thing we'd ever found different in twins that we couldn’t explain. So this was definitely a eureka moment, because if identical twins had different microbes, it could explain why they get different diseases.”
As he continued his research, there were two key findings. Firstly that genes only play a small part in which microbes you’ve got. Secondly that there are links between metabolic diseases such as obesity and having poor gut health and low gut microbial diversity.
After Tim set up ZOE in 2017 with cofounders Jonathan Wolf and George Hadjigeorgiou, they used it to help them
understand individual responses to food in the real world by enabling scientific research at an unprecedented scale with remote trials conducted by people in their homes. Then during the pandemic, Tim used community science and an app to understand the symptoms of Covid-19 in millions of people, for which he received an OBE. after more studies the team refocused their efforts around personalised health. “By combining our latest science with the results of thousands of our members’ at-home tests, ZOE now has a programme that helps people make smarter food choices for their long-term health”, says Tim.
We chose recipes that showcased more diverse plants, more colour, more fermented foods and more plant protein. We also wanted them to be easy to cook
Tim is the author of bestselling books such as The Diet Myth (2020), Spoon-Fed (2022), and Food for Life: Your Guide to the New Science of Eating Well (2024). His latest book The Food for Life Cookbook (2024) provides a guide to a healthy life with food, featuring 100 recipes created in collaboration with ZOE’s nutritionists. The approach focuses on abundance rather than restriction, helping people make practical, enjoyable food choices to boost energy, longevity and overall health.
The 100 recipes are designed to fit with the six principles of the ZOE approach: to eat 30 plants a week; to eat the rainbow; to use a variety of plant-based proteins; to think quality, not calories; to minimise ultra-processed foods; to incorporate fermented foods; and also to introduce time-restricted eating, which allows your gut time to rest.
“Following the six principles we wanted to share, we chose recipes that showcased more
diverse plants, more colour, more fermented foods and more plant protein. We also wanted the recipes to be easy to cook, not expensive, and attractive both to look at and to taste”, says Tim.
Thirty plants a week might feel unachievable, but in fact this includes vegetables, fruits, grains, nuts, seeds, herbs and spices, so it isn’t hard to achieve if you are cooking regular healthy meals – and a single ‘plant’ can be as simple as a sprinkling of herbs or a handful of seeds.
“We are fairly liberal in what we count as a plant, because every one has different chemicals. We know that our microbes are super fussy, so just a slight change in the diet and a slightly different plant, even in the same family, will feed a whole new set of microbes. That’s why this diversity is important”, says Tim.
Avoiding highly processed foods underpins the food philosophy. Tim explains, “We used to think it was the amount of fat and sugar in highly processed foods that were bad and everything else was fine. And that’s what the food companies wanted us to think, because then they could reformulate it and fiddle around with the chemicals to get less fat or less sugar. But it turns out that’s only one bit of the picture – the other is that the food is soft and
The Food for Life Cookbook: 100+ recipes created with ZOE, by Tim Spector, Jonathan Cape, £28, with photography by Issy Croker
Above: The lasagne in Tim’s latest book is based on his mother Juno’s lasagne, with key ingredients swapped out. “We swapped the pasta for wholewheat pasta, the bechamel sauce for a white bean sauce and the meat for lentils and miso.”
baby-like, you don’t have to chew it, you can eat it two or three times as fast as normal food, it doesn’t contain fibre or any other nutrients, and it also contains many chemicals which are harmful to your gut microbes.”
When it comes to meat, Tim says that processed meat should absolutely be avoided: “I have meat once or twice a month. There’s no doubt that processed meats are harmful for your health – hams, salami and most sausages are highly processed, so you need to limit your intake. Eating a small amount of high-quality meat is what we should be aiming for, and we shouldn’t be having meat with every meal.
“We’ve just done a study comparing vegans, vegetarians and meat-eaters, and it shows that actually the healthiest people with the most diverse microbes are those that eat a small amount of meat, but they also have a ton of vegetables and plants in their diet – that’s because meat provides some diversity. I would say that eating meat in moderation is probably the best way to do it.”
Advancing technology has dramatically informed Tim’s research around gut microbes, and has also exposed the rudimentary studies of the past. “Twenty years ago we were only looking at 1% of all the microbes that exist in our guts, and that’s why we didn’t really have a full picture of what we were seeing, because we focused on the ones that cause disease. The others we misnamed, calling them ‘commensals’ [an organism that benefits from another organism without harming or benefitting it], and they were just ignored. It’s only in the last five to ten years that this has really scaled up.
“This area shows science evolving at speed and depth; what’s exciting for me is that I’ve now been able to connect the dots between my scientific work, my personal discoveries in how
to eat to feel good and my long-term mission to share this knowledge widely.”
There is plenty more to investigate about the gut microbiome, however, asserts Tim. “We have just scraped the surface really, and have found that it takes really big numbers to make meaningful discoveries, a bit like genetics. We used to think we could get useful results by testing a few hundred people, but it turns out that you need to be dealing with hundreds of thousands of people, because everyone is so different.”
The production of food is also very much on Tim’s agenda. “Nowadays we need to look at food through three lenses: health, ethics and environment. And there’s no doubt that the
most important decision you can make for the planet is through your food, not not through whether you drive a car or not.
“My book is an education through recipes about how people can eat more healthily. There's nothing quite like a picture in a book to demonstrate this, and at the same time you can see how easy it is, with recipes that have so much more fibre and protein than more traditional options.” n
Presenter Gaby Roslin will be in conversation with Professor Tim Spector on 28 January at The Forum at 7.30pm–8.30pm. bathfestivals.org.uk
Roasted Aubergine Traybake
FROM TIM SPECTOR’S FOOD FOR LIFE COOKBOOK
Traybakes are so simple to make, but the garnishes here make it look like a showstopper and bring the plant score up to 13, giving you plenty of polyphenols and a boost of fibre. The best entertaining recipes require very little active time in the kitchen, and this one fits the brief. Prepare the tray for baking in advance and pop it in the oven for 40 minutes before you plan to serve.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Ingredients (serves 4)
• 2 x 400g tins chickpeas, drained and patted dry
• 350g cherry tomatoes
• 2 peppers, cut into 2cm chunks
• 200g halloumi, cut into 1cm cubes
• 3 garlic cloves, unpeeled
• 2½ tsp ground cumin
• 1½ tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp chilli powder
• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 aubergines, halved
• 3 tbsp tahini
• 180ml kefir
• 2 tsp sumac
• 20g coriander, roughly chopped
• 4 spring onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp pomegranate seeds
• Juice of lime
• Salt and black pepper
Top-ups
Sauerkraut
Swaps
Firm tofu for halloumi
Plant-based yoghurt for kefir
Method
10-15g fibre 13 plants
FROM THE BACK TO BASICS CHAPTER:
“The diversity of plant species in our diet is more crucial for gut health than the specific type of diet we follow (vegan, pescatarian, carnivore, etc.). Consuming a variety of about 30 different plant species each week emerges as a key strategy for nurturing a healthy gut microbiome and, by extension, overall wellbeing.”
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/400°F/gas 6 and line two large baking trays with baking parchment.
2. Put the chickpeas, tomatoes, peppers, halloumi and garlic cloves on one tray with three-quarters each of the cumin, ground coriander and chilli powder. Season with salt and pepper and drizzle with 3 tablespoons of the olive oil. Toss to coat.
3. Cut each aubergine in half lengthways and score a 2cm deep criss-cross pattern into the flesh of each one. Sprinkle with the remaining ground spices and drizzle with the remaining olive oil, season and place on the other baking tray. Place both trays in the oven for 40 minutes.
4. Mix the tahini, kefir and sumac in a bowl and season. When the vegetables are ready, squeeze the garlic from their skins into the sauce, mash them in and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the chickpeas, halloumi and veg to a serving dish and stir in three-quarters of the fresh coriander. Place the aubergine halves on top and scatter with the remaining coriander, spring onions, pomegranate seeds, lime juice and the sauce.
This and the recipe opposite are extracted from The Food for Life Cookbook by Tim Spector (Jonathan Cape, £28). All photography by Issy Croker.
Pecan Chocolate Cookies
FROM TIM SPECTOR’S FOOD FOR LIFE COOKBOOK
These cookies are a ZOE favourite on Instagram. They’re a great alternative to UPF snacks, as they’re really easy to make and require minimal ingredients. The nuts and olive oil help moderate your blood sugar response, but you can also add other fillings such as spiced oats and raisins.
Preparation time: 10 minutes (plus 15 minutes standing time for the flax egg)
Cook time: 10-12 minutes
Ingredients (makes 12 cookies)
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
• 3 tbsp light brown sugar
• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 200g ground almonds
• 50g pecan nuts, roughly chopped
• 80g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa solids), roughly chopped
fibre 4 plants
Reset your health at Combe Grove
BY DR REBECCA HISCUTT PHD RD
Programmes Manager, Combe Grove Centre for Metabolic Health
Reset your health at Combe Grove, your local centre for Metabolic Health on our 70 acre estate here in Bath. We offer eight Programmes that deliver medically measurable results developed by leading medical, nutritional and movement specialists here at Combe Grove. The 5 Roots of Metabolic Health™ form the foundation of each of our programmes.
Imbalanced Metabolic Health affects up to 93% of adults with common symptoms including fatigue, hunger and cravings, weight gain, poor sleep, aches and pains.
These symptoms often coincide with an increasing number of accompanying health conditions and medications.
Our Metabolic Health Programmes are designed to help you restore and reset your Metabolic balance. Metabolic Health improvements, often rapid and dramatic, can transform your life.
“The Metabolic Reset Retreat, with a 48-week follow-up, addresses, both medically and holistically, the epidemic of obesity and consequent ill health that assails our population. I am no longer pre-diabetic, my blood pressure is normal; I have lost 1.5 stone in weight and I am full of energy. I'm no longer going to medicate my way out of ill health. I'm back in business.” Fiona Duncan, The Telegraph
Reset your health
• Pinch of salt Swap Pumpkin or sunflower seeds for pecan nuts
Method
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/350°F/gas 4 and line a baking tray with baking parchment. To make the flax egg, mix the ground flaxseed with 4 tablespoons of water and set aside for 15 minutes.
2. Mix the brown sugar, olive oil and flax egg together. Add the ground almonds, pecan nuts, chocolate and salt and mix again.
3. Shape into 12 tight balls and flatten slightly into cookies about 1cm thick (it helps if you do this with damp hands). Bake for 10–12 minutes until tinged golden brown at the edges, then leave to cool completely on the tray. Store in an airtight container.
Local Membership provides comprehensive metabolic health checks to those living within 15 miles together with a personalised Five Root plan. Members use our gym, studios, tennis courts, over 70 classes a week, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, saunas, steam room and grounds. 30% discount for NHS.
Our immersive Metabolic Programmes include a year’s membership and 6 night residential stay to enable sustained and significant health improvements. These include, Menopause, Metabolic Health, Prediabetes and Type 2, Insulin optimisation for Type 1 Diabetes and conquering Food Addiction.
Combe Grove At Home is our online programme delivering the same high quality education from the comfort of your own home, alongside a small group of 20 like minded individuals and dedicated support from your personalised Metabolic Health Coach. Our next cohort starts 20th January 2025.
Dive deeper into your health for 2025 at Combe Grove.
Melissa Blease tucks into the top food and drink trends you can expect to see piled high on your plates and filling your glasses in 2025
caviar, Japanese 7 spice and Welsh rarebit
The UK’s ongoing cost of living crisis combined with turbulent political upheaval and the climate emergency continue to dominate the headlines at the start of 2025 –and food world, both on the domestic front and out-andabout, is adapting accordingly. While fads, fashions and trends should never be at the forefront of our agenda when it comes to what – and how – we eat, myriad influences dictate both conscious and unconscious decisions; you can dispute that statement, but I bet you’re not eating a Vesta curry of Findus Crispy Pancakes followed by Arctic Roll or a slice of Black Forest Gateau for dinner… are you?
So! What are the key factors and ingredients that will guide us through a year of food and drink, 2025 style – and which fickle fads are yesterday’s news? These are our predictions...
Waste not, want not
Cutting back on waste will maintain high-priority status on the 2025 menu-agenda. According to the Soil Association, it’s estimated that a whopping 9.5 million tonnes of food is wasted or binned in the UK, the majority being generated by production and processing plants at various stages of the food supply chain. But this statistic is falling year-on-year as we become both more ingredient- and packaging/processing-savvy; as food writer and development chef Luke Churchill says, “Consumers are, today, less inclined to buy highly processed, over-packaged plantbased alternatives and would rather purchase foods where the provenance of the ingredients is traceable and seen as more ‘natural.’ ”
As a result, the rise in consumers who make more use of fresh, seasonal, locally sourced vegetables is expected to increase in 2025 (buzzword: cottagecore), and a stronger focus on grains, pulses and legumes as the hero ingredient in at-home dishes combined with clever use of – and even planning for – leftovers (buzzword: ‘culinary upcycling’) is the way forward.
Meat the Reducitarians
According to a 2024 YouGov survey, 13% of Britons now identify as flexitarian (increasingly referred to, in ‘hip’ parlance, as ‘reducitarian’) compared to just 7% the previous summer, and Waitrose is just one of the big supermarkets who report that searches for ‘plant-based’, ‘meatand/or dairy-free’ and plain old ‘vegetarian’ have increased by 115% yearon-year – that’s an almost direct correlation with the rising cost of meat in the UK, and figures are expected to continue soaring throughout 2025. Meanwhile, a 2024 Oxford University study indicated that switching just one red meat meal for a plant-based alternative every week has the potential to slash the UK’s carbon footprint by an impressive 50 million tonnes – and your wallet will certainly thank you for the change too.
In, out, shake it all about: what’s hot for 2025?
Newstalgia: Classic British comfort food dishes, reimagined yet again to revitalise jaded palates – think, fish and chip pie, fruit-laden Yorkshire puddings, sausage and mash burgers, savoury donuts/cheesecakes, walnut ‘meatballs’.
Shichimi Togarashi (aka Japanese 7 Spice): Sweet, smoky, a little bit citrusy… and addictive in the best possible way.
Seaweed caviar: A sustainable, affordable, plant-based alternative to caviar (typically made from unfertilised fish eggs) created from dried seaweed or kelp, a type of algae.
Embered food: Meat, vegetables or fish cooked directly on the embers or coals of a fire, bolder than a barbecue and all about theatre, theatre, theatre.
Foraged/heritage/indigenous UK herbs: Lovage, yarrow, cowslip, meadowsweet, woodruff, lemon balm, lavender, borage – the English country hedgerow is the ‘new’ herb garden.
Bespoke butters: Handmade, flavoured butters often made with different kinds of dairy (or non-dairy) produce (goat’s butter; raw butter; buffalo butter; and plant-based butters).
Soy sauce: Umami back-flavour to the max in savoury and sweet dishes.
Fig leaves: Sweet, floral and mildly citrus/coconut-y in flavour, fig leaves will pop up on menus/in recipes everywhere, from wrappings for baked fish and cheese to an ingredient in oils, dressings and cocktail syrups by way of panna cottas, ice creams, custards and compotes.
Rarebit: The classic combination of hot cheese, ale, mustard and Worcestershire sauce, usually served on toast and thought to have originated in Wales in the early 1700s, is having its catwalk moment, popping up in pickles, mash, pies, croquettas, tacos, donuts, cool canapes and more.
Black garlic: Aged, fermented garlic resulting in a soft, sweet, umami-rich flavour bomb that adds depth, flavour and complexity to all manner of dishes.
Ripples: From a revival of traditional rippled ice creams (raspberry, strawberry, peach, etc) to thick ribbons of flavour semi-stirred through purees, soups and sauces, the ripple will make menu waves this year.
Trends pictured opposite (left to right, top to bottom): black garlic, borage, raspberry ripple ice cream, seaweed
Cold-pressed juices
On the way out: what we’re saying ‘good riddance’ to...
Towering, fully-loaded, stacked and/or dirty burgers, fries, sides, etc: Ugly, unmanageable and ostentatiously over-indulgent! 2025 is all about ‘clean’.
Deconstructions: Trifles, Cottage and Shepherd’s Pies, cheesecakes, salsas, crumbles, pizzas… they were all constructed for very good reason; in 2025, chefs will stop taking them apart.
Street Food sections on restaurant menus: If you’re not eating it in the street, you’re not eating Street Food.
Bowl food: We’ve all started to realise that it’s just food, served in a bowl. A Poke Bowl? That doesn’t mean anything. A Buddha Bowl? Same.
Violent menu descriptions: Traditional culinary terms such as mashed, marinated, blanched, barbecued and minced will replace words such as smashed, smacked, burnt, scalded and pounded all-kinds-of-everything, sending, rightly sending them all back to the boxing ring.
Over-lit dining rooms: Massive filaments inside what appear to be goldfish bowls, spotlights with an ‘interrogation room’ vibe and canteen-style striplights are being turned off in restaurants everywhere as subtle backlighting comes back into (soft!) focus.
Caramelised biscuits: They peaked too fast in 2024 to stay fashionable; the social media-generated backlash (“too sweet”; “just… sickly!”; “oh please, don’t add them to anything else!”) has begun…
Cocktails served in jars: kilner jars, jam jars, sweetie jars et al are swiftly being removed from behind bars… and put back in the pantry.
All You Can Eat buffets: They disappeared in the postpandemic world and don’t seem to be making a return.
Cash! According to an autumn 2024 Morning Advertiser survey, 89% of restaurant, pub, café and coffee shop customers in the UK now use cards or contactless payments. Meanwhile, 43% of hospitality operators in London don’t give customers the option anymore; cashfree, it seems, is the new king.
Convenience Chic
What the air fryer started, a whole host of ‘revolutionary’ kitchen gadgets will run with in 2025. The Crockpot – a heady combination of energy-efficient slow cooker, pressure cooker and super-speedy oven (“roast a whole chicken/rustle up a curry in 30 minutes!”, etc) – leads the way, with chic, sleek electric/gas-powered barbecues set to replace that rickety old drum-onwheels thing that’s been rusting away in your back garden for years and instant pizza ovens, smokers and tandooris transforming our summertime menus. Will we, this time next year, be getting rid of our traditional/ conventional ovens altogether? It could happen…
And to drink with that…?
In 2024, those aged between 28-43 demonstrated a distinct shift towards non-alcoholic beverages than in previous years, with ‘fashionable’ cold-pressed fruit juices, prebiotic and vitamin-supplemented sodas and alcohol-free seltzer/sparkling drinks proving to a big hit with Millenials. But across the board, our thirst for alcohol will, it seems, continue to decrease. Roughly 20% of the UK population is now thought to be completely teetotal, and the keen interest in craft mocktails and ‘wellbeing’ drinks (coconut, birch and ‘balanced’ waters; matcha tea; manuka honey-infused elixirs, etc) is thought to continue throughout 2025. Meanwhile, alcohol-free alternatives to wine and beer are popping up on Set and Tasting Menus in restaurants, and even supermarket meal deals are cashing in on the soft drinks action.
For those who whine about not drinking wine, the demand for high-end, small format and environmentally sustainable canned wine is on the increase, with companies such as the Bristol-based Nania’s Vineyard, a drinks company born out of, and inspired by, its small urban vineyard on an allotment in central Bristol, at the vanguard of a wine revolution. n
Will towering gourmet burgers become a thing of the past?
The caramelised biscuit is banished
Lower & lighter wines
Recommendations by Tom Bleathman from the Great Wine Company
After a holiday packed full of celebration and cheer, it’s now 2025 and new year’s resolutions are in full swing. Instead of giving up one of life’s few pleasures, wine, this month consider options that have naturally lower alcohol levels. All these great lower and lighter wines are available from The Great Wine Company. greatwine.co.uk
QL Flowers Vinho Verde 2023 Quinta da Lixa 10.5%
For many, Vinho Verde is a simple drink consumed while relaxing on a sunbed in the Algarve. Quinta da Lixa is a real step up from this – at 10.5% this Vinho Verde is full of green apple, melon and white peach. Crisp, mineral and with a slight spritz, this wine is a great example of an easy-sipping house wine and it’s only £10.50 a bottle.
Argeo Prosecco Brut, Ruggeri 11%
Often forgotten about as a lower alcohol wine, prosecco often hovers around 10.5-11%. This example is by one of the top winemakers in the prosecco region, Ruggeri, producing wines that are fantastically drinkable. The Argeo is complex with flavours of stone fruit, lemon and white flowers and at only 11%, you can have another glass! £16.65
Carignan, Pays de l'Hérault, Les Archères 12.5%
With climate change, finding reds that are below 13% which still have body and texture is proving tougher than ever. This Carignan is made from old vine around 80 years old produces a lovely cherry/ruby-red colour and is full of berry fruit intensity on the nose with hints of vanilla. This is a full-flavoured easy-drinking classic of the Languedoc and at £11.10 a bottle, it’s a bargain. n
Discover the Art of Harmony: Align Your Space, Transform Your Life
Are you seeking calm amidst the chaos? Longing to create a sanctuary where you can relax, recharge, and rediscover balance? The art of creating harmonious spaces is a pathway to deep serenity and personal transformation, blending the energy of your environment with your inner self.
At the heart of this practice lies the belief that your surroundings reflect your life. When your space is aligned, you begin to feel centered, empowered, and at peace. Imagine walking into your home or office and feeling embraced and supported, every corner inspires relaxation and every element supports balance and clarity. Through thoughtful arrangement, intentional design, and an understanding of energy flow, you can create spaces that promote calm, reduce stress, and inspire focus. It’s not just about the physical space, either—your personal state of relaxation and mindfulness plays a vital role. When you practice meditation and embrace stillness, you radiate positive energy that enhances your environment, creating a beautiful synergy between your inner world and outer surroundings.
Experience the Benefits of a Harmonious Space: Create Calm: Design an environment that soothes the soul and quiets the mind.
Enhance Relaxation: Clear unnecessary clutter and invite natural flow for true tranquillity..
Reduce Stress: Align energy to feel grounded, focused, and in control.
Meditation: Transform your space into a personal retreat for daily reflection and self-care.
Radiate Positive Energy: Use mindfulness to uplift your environment, making it a source of joy and inspiration.
Heidi’s consultations are more than just about improving your space—they’re a journey to self-discovery and empowerment. Together, we’ll uncover the blocks in your environment and align it with your intentions, so you can experience the serenity and vitality you deserve.
Step into a life of balance, where your space supports your dreams and nourishes your soul. Discover how intentional design and mindful relaxation can create harmony between you and your surroundings, forming a foundation for true well-being..
Heidi will be giving talks during Bath’s ReBalance Wellness Festival
Fun with Feng Shui Thursday February 6th at Bath Natural Remedies to book call 01225 466944
Deep Dive into Relaxation date TBC at The Centre for Metabolic Health booking through the ReBalance Wellness Festival website.
When in Bath, iconic architecture and landscapes are round every corner. What better way to make the wedding of your dreams than to tap into the city's picture perfect potential?
We go behind the scenes at The Royal Crescent Hotel as the team re‐create the ceremony, the atmosphere and the emotion of nuptials that will mark the time and the place forever.
With additional thanks to the team at Woodhouse & Law
Your Dream Wedding in Bath’s Most Iconic Venues
Bath offers a unique blend of history, elegance, and flexibility, making it the perfect backdrop for your wedding day. With breathtaking surroundings and award-winning venues, couples can tailor their celebrations to match any vision, whether it’s an intimate gathering or a grand affair.
Imagine exchanging your vows against the torch-lit, historic beauty of the Roman Baths. This iconic landmark, set around Britain’s only naturally hot spring, creates an extraordinary atmosphere for couples looking for a wedding that will truly stand out. Guests can marvel at the magical setting as you say “I do” on the ancient Roman paving alongside the waters, before celebrating in the atmospheric Pump Room or the enclosed Terrace. Few venues offer such a combination of romance, grandeur, and history.
For those dreaming of a natural setting, Bath’s Heritage Parks offer stunning options that embrace the beauty of the outdoors. The Temple of Minerva, nestled within the Botanical Gardens, is ideal for any season, with its charming indoor space warmed by underfloor heating and its surrounding lawns providing ample room for marquees, drinks receptions, and even festival-style celebrations. Whether you picture a relaxed summer wedding with wood-fired pizza and lawn games or a winter ceremony adorned with candles and mulled wine, this space allows you to create a wedding as unique as your love story.
In the heart of Bath, Parade Gardens delivers unrivaled riverside charm, where manicured lawns and vibrant floral displays meet the timeless beauty of the Pulteney Bridge. Couples can host their ceremony in the elegant Edwardian Bandstand or under the colonnades, followed by drinks receptions surrounded by one of Bath’s most iconic settings. With its vintage charm and pictureperfect views, it’s a location where memories—and photographs—will be truly unforgettable.
If refined Georgian interiors are more your style, the Guildhall offers a stunning combination of history and flexibility. Known for its fine rooms and elegant staircases, this venue provides the grandeur befitting a timeless celebration. Rarely do venues of this calibre allow couples the freedom to choose their own caterers and suppliers, ensuring every detail reflects their vision. Located near the river and manicured gardens, it offers exceptional opportunities for wedding photographs, making it a picture-perfect choice from day to evening.
From historic landmarks to serene gardens and regal interiors, Bath’s unique venues promise an unforgettable wedding experience, perfectly supported by teams dedicated to making your day as seamless as it is beautiful. Whatever your style, the charm of this timeless city will ensure your wedding is truly one of a kind.
For more details, visit bathvenues.co.uk
Make a date: upcoming Wedding fairs and events
Bath’s historic Venues
Thursday, 30 January 2025, from 7pm to 9pm.
The Roman Baths and Pump Room will be hosting a special open evening wedding showcase. Pre-registration is essential. For details visit: bathvenues.co.uk
Royal Crescent Hotel
Sunday 2 March 2025
One of the most beautiful wedding venues in Bath, The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa offers an exceptional and luxurious setting for your special day. Meet the events team who will be on hand to answer all your questions and help plan the perfect wedding. Contact the events team to register or find out more about the wedding showcase at: royalcrescent.co.uk
Bailbrook House Hotel
Sunday 26 January 2025 from 11am to 3pm.
Held in the beautiful Bailbrook House, the open day is the perfect event to help you collect inspiration and information for your celebration. The Bailbrook House team and other wedding suppliers will be on hand to answer any questions and to discuss your requirements. Register your interest at: handpickedhotels.co.uk/bailbrookhouse
Bath’s historic Venues
Sunday, 16 February 2025 from 10:30am to 2:30pm
Visit the ceremony suite at The Guildhall in Bath for this special wedding showcase hosted by the Bath Registration Service. For details visit: bathvenues.co.uk
Photography, left to right, courtesy of: Emma Jane, Rich Howman, Greg Shingler
Are you making plans to tie the knot? Our little guide to local wedding‐based businesses is full of great ideas and all the folk who can help make your big day something very special.
Thomas Fortin
Everyone is looking to add personalized touches to their wedding to make their special day unique and Bath-based menswear company Thomas Fortin offers couples the chance to create their own printed bespoke wedding accessories. Perfect as groomsman gifts, these unique-to-you pieces will add something special to your wedding day! We can even print women’s silk scarves and twillies. Use the online store as a starting point for designs or create your own printed pattern from scratch. Thomas Fortin is a British company that pride themselves on quality products made and produced in England.
thomasfortin.com; info@thomasfortin.com
Hamswell House
The romantic orangery and gardens of award-winning Hamswell House make the ultimate setting for your wedding. You will be surrounded by 50 acres of gardens and private land with breathtaking panoramic views over the Hamswell valley. Yours will be the only marquee wedding held that weekend, so it is truly, exclusively yours. And you will have access to the marquee the day before for set-up and styling. The venue is situated in the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near Bath. No corkage charge.
Hamswell, Bath BA1 9DG
Tel: 07710 727 773; Web: hamswellhouse.co.uk
Betty Bhandari Photography
Betty Bhandari is a Bath based wedding & portrait photographer who works across the South-West of the UK. She takes candid and creative documentary wedding photos with the perfect blend of natural and dramatic! Her main emphasis is on creating a very relaxed atmosphere for the couple and guests, while creating contemporary and timeless portraits that are cherished for years and decades. She has 12 years of experience and hundreds of weddings under her belt. Betty also works as a personal brand photography and editorial portrait photographer, with work published across major magazines.
Luxury Pop-Up Accommodation In Bath, Bristol and Surrounding Areas. Siesta Fiesta Bell Tents offer boutique, luxury pop ‐up accommodation for weddings, events, festivals, birthdays, and special occasions. The beautifully crafted bell tents are not only perfect for creating warm, home from home, magical spaces for you and your guests but also, the dreamiest back drop to your wedding, whether it’s a romantic honeymoon suite, cozy guest Bell Tents, or stylish lounge Bell Tents and children's play tents. Tailored to your vision, they offer both bare and fully furnished options, enhanced with thoughtful touches and the option of luxury breakfast grazing boards delivered right to your Bell Tent door. They’ll take care of the setup and pack down, allowing you to fully enjoy every moment.
Siesta Fiesta – Turning Moments into Memories.
Web: siestafiesta.co.uk
City Tailors
City Tailors of Bath have the expertise to not only alter your wedding dress to perfection but also to re-style it to your requirements or perhaps even in ways you never thought possible. A wedding dress re-style can involve a change to the neckline, adding sleeves, re-shaping the train or adding lace or embellishment. Off the peg or made to measure bridesmaid’s dresses can also be altered or embellished to suit all your bridesmaids perfectly. The skill and experience of the team can also be applied to the groom and menswear to ensure a perfect fit on the big day. For many women, their wedding dress is the most beautiful garment they will ever own. After the special day, why not ask the talented tailors and dressmakers to turn your dress into something new and exciting such as a stunning cocktail dress or evening gown, an elegant blouse or even a gorgeous and unique skirt?
The south west’s leading designer jeweller, award-winning Nicholas Wylde has been designing original, high-quality jewellery since first opening his Bath store in 1987. He has built up a reputation for designing outstanding pieces; from one-off commissions to large. corporate orders – all handmade, with great passion, in the workshop on the premises. An added cool factor: Nicholas Wylde offers his own patented diamond cut, the dazzling Wylde Flower Diamond®, with more cut facets than a brilliant cut diamond for that extra-special sparkle. You won’t find this gemstone anywhere else in the world. With one of the largest collections of wedding rings in the South West, Wylde Jewellers is a perfect destination for anyone looking for their dream wedding jewellery.
The Bath Hat Company has been a reputable provider of exeptional hats for the past three decades and has an extensive collection that will cater for every occasion. The bespoke hats are crafted with meticulous care and attention to detail by a team of skilled artisans and are designed to make you stand out from the crowd. For women, their range of white and off-white pieces are the perfect bridal accessory, with options available for guests and bridal parties. For men, there is a diverse range of styles, ideal for any celebration. The shop also provides professional hat-stretching services to guarantee a perfect and comfortable fit.
For the finest wedding jewellery, wedding bands and engagement rings, visit Jody Cory Goldsmiths. The independent jeweller is a member of the National Association of Goldsmiths and has more than 25 years’ experience. From her shop and workshop in the Abbey Churchyard, Jody and her team create beautiful, unique pieces that are the perfect way to mark your special day. Friendly advice is available seven days a week from the team of highly skilled goldsmiths, working in extremely covetable silver, gold and platinum, and using specially selected rare gemstones. Old and broken treasures can be repaired or remodelled to become that ‘something old’ or ‘something new’; free design servcies are also available. Among a range of pieces, the skillfully crafted handmade jewellery includes diamond‐ set engagement rings and wedding rings in traditional and contemporary styles to suit all tastes.
9 Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1 1LY
Tel: 01225 460072; Web: jodycory.co.uk
Visit our website to browse our 2025 Wedding Guide online! Or if you offer a service or are a wedding venue, then why not get in touch to add your business.
Complete
Tailoring Service for Ladies & Gentlemen
Alterations & repairs on all garments from suits to uniforms, wedding to prom dresses, designer and vintage clothing
Made to measure suits, shirts and separates and bespoke tailoring for ladies and gentlemen
Free fitting service
Open Monday – Saturday 9am to 6pm
Find out more at: citytailors.co.uk
First Floor, 25 Milsom Street, Bath, BA1 1DG
Tel: 01225 920 263 / 07798 897 459
Email: info@citytailors.co.uk
Portrait of Bath
Theresa Roche, actress, tour guide and presenter
Theresa Roche’s career portfolio includes multiple roles as an actress, singer, dancer, presenter and costumed tour guide. After completing a history degree, she trained as an actress and then as a solicitor. But she says it is the performing arts that have always been her guiding star.
In theatre Theresa’s roles include the Queen in Snow White, Princess Thaisa in Pericles and Catherine Earnshaw in Wuthering Heights. Her film work includes a specialist line in evil characters in horror movies, such as The House of Screaming Death (2015) and Morgana Le Fay in the 2011 Merlin’s Myth documentary. She has also appeared in on-line commercials. Her ballroom and Latin dancing has been featured on the BBC and Sky TV national news and she was a Tudor wedding dancer in The Other Boleyn Girl (2008). Theresa also plays characters in comedy dining shows, playing Sybil in Fawlty Towers and in multi-roles playing Edith, Helga and Michelle in ’Allo ’Allo. In 2010 she wrote a play that was performed in two London theatres.
Theresa debuted on stage as a dancer aged four and has lived in Bristol for over 25 years. She is a familiar face in Bath, where her theatrical persona has an appropriately Regency stamp in her work as a costumed Jane Austen Tour Guide for Bath-based ECT Travel. She is also a costumed host at The Gainsborough Bath Spa hotel’s History & Heritage afternoon teas where guests can ask questions about the history of Bath and learn about the language of the fan, how ladies transmitted their secret messages across the ballrooms – these messages ranged from “desirous of acquaintance” and “meet me outside” to “I love you”. This for Theresa offers the perfect pairing of her two big loves: history and Jane Austen. “I adore Jane Austen and always have done,” she declares, and her knowledge both of the writer’s life and books and of the period is extensive, allowing her to capture her Regency characters in full colour. The impact is enhanced further by Theresa’s collection of Regency-style outfits – the one she is wearing here was made for a programme called The Iron Duke about the Duke of Wellington and is a replica of the Empress Josephine’s court gown.
The 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, 2025, will see Theresa at her busiest as she appears in Regency costume at events planned throughout the year. This includes experiences organised by ECT Travel and The Gainsborough Bath Spa, where Theresa will be hosting visits within Bath to the places where Jane lived, as well as other locations with Austen associations such as Lacock village, where the 1995 Pride and Prejudice was filmed, and Chawton Cottage in Hampshire.
thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk; ecttravel.com
Main photograph taken at The Gainsborough Bath Spa by Joe Short, an award-winning photographer based in Bath. joeshort.com
Bath education & training
LOCAL SCHOOLS AND COURSE UPDATES
NEW VICE CHANCELLOR FOR BATH SPA
Professor Georgina Andrews has been announced as the new Vice Chancellor of Bath Spa University. Professor Andrews is currently the Deputy Vice Chancellor and Provost of Bath Spa University. She will succeed Professor Sue Rigby on 1 January 2025, after seven years at BSU.
Professor Andrews has considerable senior leadership experience and a record of engaging stakeholders to deliver successful outcomes. She has a background in law and has led two distinctive and successful Business Schools. Georgina is passionate about breaking down barriers to higher education and the role of universities as anchor institutions in their communities and catalysts for inclusive growth.
Professor Becky Schaaf will take up the role of interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Bath Spa University in January, supporting Professor Georgina Andrews as Vice Chancellor. bathspa.ac.uk
TOP 10 FOR KINGSWOOD
Kingswood School in Bath has again been recognised as a Top 10 school in the south west region of the Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2025. This ranking – based on the performance of A-levels and GCSEs – cements Kingswood’s position as the best performing 11-18 co-educational day and boarding school in the region.
The Parent Power guide recognises high-achieving academic results on a school-by-school basis. This summer saw Kingswood’s A-level cohort achieve outstanding results with 81% of all exams graded A*, A or B. At GCSE, 63% of grades were 7 to 9 (Equivalent of A/A*); 41% of grades were 8 and 9; and four pupils achieved an incredible set of 10 9s. kingswood.bath.sch.uk
HEAD RECRUITMENT
Ms Heidi-Jayne Boyes has been appointed as the new Head of Royal High School Bath, GDST, taking up her post in January. Heidi joins the school from Wakefield Girls’ High School where she is in her seventh year of headship, and has successfully led the school through an exciting transformation to become one of Yorkshire’s outstanding girls’ schools. royalhighbath.gdst.net
In more school news, Monkton Combe School has appointed Bradley Salisbury, current Head of Dean Close School, Cheltenham, as Chris Wheeler’s successor from January 2026. Bradley has had overall responsibility for the leadership and management of Dean Close School since 2015. Prior to that he was the Senior Deputy Head at Dean Close School, Housemaster and Head of RS at Wells Cathedral School, Head of RS and Head of Middle School at Bristol Cathedral School. monktoncombeschool.com
PRIOR PARK SCHOOL FEES PLAN
The Paragon School and Prior Park College have announced their fees for the academic year commencing September 2025 and have confirmed there will be ‘no inflationary increase to our gross fees.’ They are the first schools in Bath to publish 2025/26 fees.
Both schools belong to the Prior Park Educational Trust, whose Board of Trustees decided to make the announcement early to assist families with budget planning following the government’s decision to apply VAT on independent school fees from January 2025. Whilst VAT will be applied to the headline fees from January, the Trust is looking at what, if any, further transitional VAT relief can be offered from September 2025.
The Trust will be applying a 10% commercial award to each pupil’s fees from January 2025, as well as having already made an amendment to the annual billing profile to reflect the delivery of education in each term. This, in real terms, will amount to an increase of just 4.8% to fees for the 2024/25 academic year. priorparkcollege.com; paragonschool.co.uk
What the Inheritance Tax reforms mean for you and how you can optimise your legacy
In October, Labour introduced several reforms to Inheritance Tax (IHT), including:
• Extending the freeze on nil-rate bands until 2030
• Subjecting pensions to IHT from 2027
• Adjusting Business and Agricultural Reliefs
Reviewing your estate plan now could help you navigate these reforms.
With the nil-rate bands frozen, it’s important to maximise tax efficiency
An additional allowance called the “residence nil-rate band” offers up to £175,000 in IHT relief if you leave your primary residence to direct descendants.
Combined with the regular nil-rate band, these allowances enable you to pass on up to £500,000 tax-free and up to £1 million if you’re married.
Giving gifts while you’re alive could be tax-efficient
Giving gifts while you’re alive can be an effective way of reducing your IHT liability.
Each tax year, you have an “annual exemption” that allows you to give gifts up to a certain amount without the value being added to your estate.
Assets held in trusts will usually still be exempt from IHT
Assets placed in trust are generally no longer considered part of your estate for IHT purposes, provided the transfer meets specific conditions.
It’s a good idea to consult a financial planner before establishing one.
We are Independent Financial Advisers who specialise in retirement planning and estate planning
Get in touch
If you would like a review of your pensions and investments and whether you are on track to achieve your financial goals, please contact us for a free consultation.
0117 959 6499
info@perennialwealth.co.uk
Trym Lodge, 1 Henbury Road, Bristol, UK, BS9 3HQ
Ali Vowles meets Phil Taylor
Professor Phil Taylor is a globally recognised researcher and industrial expert in energy systems, with over 30 years of experience in both industry and academia. Local journalist and presenter Ali Vowles visits Phil at the University campus in Claverton Down to get his perspective after his first few months as Vice‐ Chancellor and President.
I’ve already got one connection to Bath, Ali. I was born in Rome!” Phil Taylor, greets me with a warm handshake, a big smile and a refreshingly open manner. I’m not sure you’d get this kind of welcome in all universities from a relatively new Vice Chancellor and President!
Not surprisingly after just six months in the post at the University of Bath he has a hectic diary. On the day I met him he’d already had breakfast with some early bird students, met the Mayor of Bath, and after our chat he had several more meetings. He was then catching a train to London to be welcomed as a new Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.
With a background in engineering and renewable energy systems –he designed the grid connection for the UK’s first offshore wind farm – he has worked in both industry and universities for all of his career.
Phil moved to the West Country with his wife and three daughters during the pandemic, to work for the University of Bristol as the Pro Vice Chancellor for Research and Enterprise. Rishi Sunak put him in charge of a £250 million project, building the UK’s largest AI supercomputer. He and his team were given just nine months to pull it off – which they did! The facility can now be used for research by every university in the country.
Phil says “After two years in Italy, my parents came back to the North East. Living in such a friendly place for most of my life means I like people! As a result I’m a bit of an open book. But I’m not afraid to be decisive in my new job leading the University of Bath. There was a period of time here when we lacked confidence as an institution. Moving forward we need to take managed risks and be resolute, to deliver more for our staff, our students and the city. Collaboration with other partners is key. You get a broader diversity of ideas, you can share facilities and with big projects you can share risk.”
So what challenges face the 54-year-old in the years ahead? He says going forward he wants the University of Bath to be truly global, carrying out research to tackle the difficulties that the world faces. He also wants to make sure that the institution has solid foundations for the future. And in a tough, financially difficult time, he thinks it’s more important than ever to encourage a diverse student base, with a range of backgrounds.
“Both my parents were unemployed when I went to university. I was lucky. I got a grant from the government. Without it I couldn’t have gone. I know how difficult it is. We’re lucky here to have a fantastic global alumni community who are generous with their ideas and
Rishi Sunak put [Phil] in charge of a £250 million project building the UK’s largest AI supercomputer. He and his team were given just nine months to pull it off –which they did!
networks, but also donate funds for scholarships and bursaries.”
But he acknowledges that it’s still far from easy. Universities are not -for-profit organisations. So although fees rose recently after an eight -year freeze, in the same week the National Insurance contributions rose too. As Bath’s second biggest employer, it left the university around a million pounds a year worse off.
Moving forward we [the university] need to take managed risks and be resolute, to deliver more for our staff, our students and the city
Undaunted the VC said “I guess that’s my job, to try and lead the organisation so that we are still pursuing those aspirational goals, but in a way that is financially and environmentally sustainable.”
As a resident and former reporter I know that things like the rise in student accommodation can get full time residents riled. There is also a perception in some quarters that the university stands aloof on the hills above the city. It’s something that the new VC fully acknowledges.
“I know we need to get better at communicating what we add. I think we also need to talk more about how a thriving university can lead to a thriving city, and how a thriving city helps support a thriving university. We need to shout about things like the sports training village that is used by lots of school kids and the talks and cultural events that we put on in the area. Thousands of students volunteer in the community each year. We know we’ve got a great reputation here and a great brand – we need to shout about it.”
The University is in the top ten per cent of universities in the world and is eighth in the world for sports-related research and education.
“Both these statistics are fantastic”, says Phil, “especially for a relatively young university. It’s one of the key areas of distinction that we need to build on and do more of. I recently met some of the 30 Olympians and Paralympians who brought back 17 medals to Bath. They are so inspirational.”
Our time together was nearly up – but in a rugby city one more important question. Is he a round ball or an oval ball fan?
“My team is Middlesbrough FC, where I’m from, so while I didn’t grow up a rugby fan I have enjoyed watching it at The Rec. I played football to quite a high standard and did a lot of sports, including running. When I can I’ve also been watching Bath City FC at Twerton. And I got to talk to film director, Bath City fan and club director Ken Loach on the terraces. He is one of my heroes. How wonderful is that?” n
The University of Bath: bath.ac.uk Instagram: ali_vowles
Bathonian bookshelf
We love bigging up our city, and this month we’re shining a light on some of its co‐celebrators. Here are five Bath‐related books for you to get your teeth into in 2025...
Calling all Jane Austen and Bridgerton fans!
Miss Phoebe Fairfax dreams of being being as as free as her four brothers. When she discovers she is to be wed to a repungnant earl, she decides to embark on a real adventure. Phoebe finds herself in a duel with the Somerset Highwayman, before being rescued by an arrogant bachelor Viscount Damerel, the most irritatingly handsome man Phoebe has ever set eyes upon...
The Mismatch of the Season Michelle Kenney, publishing in January, is a Regency romance with a contemporary feminist approach set in Bath. It asks what it means to be a heroine in any age and is suitable for readers of Jane Austen and Julia Quinn. harpercollins.co.uk
A novel of revenge and redemption
As Jack Mayhew’s life begins to unravel and memories of his tumultuous past resurface, all seems lost. In a moment of despair, he collapses into the sea off Amalfi, surrendering to his fate.
During his early years, Jack’s self-doubt fuels both his ambition and his weakness for women. By adulthood, he has suffered at the hands of three people. As his business crumbles, driven by anger, Jack embarks on a journey of revenge and redemption. Success in the corporate world follows, but so does tragedy... Set in between Bath, Bristol, Cheltenham and Worcestershire in the 1960s and 1980s, Three Down by Richard Phillips, published by The Book Guild Publishing, portrays Jack’s tumultuous life from childhood to adulthood. bookguild.co.uk
Picture perfect
Paul J Gooch, a passionate photographer from Bath, has recently self-published a photobook called The City of Bath: Enduring Structures and Transient Lives. The photobook is a celebration of the heritage of Bath's classical architecture and also features the transient people who live, work and socialise in the City of Bath, often using long or multiple exposures. Paul was awarded an Associate Distinction by the Royal Photographic Society for an earlier version of the book, and it includes a section with historical images of Bath alongside Paul’s own images made in the current day. The book concludes with a section on sustainability and conservation. Available from pauljgooch.com at a price of £36, as well as from Topping & Company Booksellers in York Street and le fou de bassan in Green Street.
Discovering histories
It’s not immediately apparent that Bath and Bradford on Avon were formed by industry, first medieval cloth making followed by a host of Industrial Revolution enterprises and then on to an engineering tradition that still thrives. Walks to Works 2 by Paul Fisher is a fresh take on two old river towns that have been defined by industry every bit as much as by the established Roman and Georgian heritage way of seeing them.
Published by Smallish Books, Walks to Works 2 is available in Bath’s best bookshops. paulfisher95@googlemail.com
The Post Office Scandal
Author of The Great Post Office Scandal, Nick Wallis is writing a new book to be released in 2025: The Great Post Office Cover-Up. Acting as a companion to the first book, and using transcripts, interviews, and documents, Wallis will tell the story from inside the Post Office, Fujitsu and the Government, while also referring to developments over the last three years. You can pre-order the book from Bath Publishing’s cintopress.co.uk, currently available at a reduced price as a £15 (plus P&P) signed limited edition hardback and a £10 (plus P&P) paperback; 5% of proceeds will be donated to the Horizon Scandal Fund.
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Elemis Pro-Collagen Rose Marine Cream
Rejuvenate the complexion with the Elemis Pro-Collagen
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Marine Cream, a moisturiser that works to firm, soothe and hydrate the skin. Developed in celebration of the 20th year since the launch of Elemis’ Pro-Collagen Marine Cream, this product features the same benefits alongside a soothing rose aromatic. £95, available from spacenk.com
The Beauty Edit
After weeks of eating, drinking and merrymaking to your heart’s content, there’s no better time for a little TLC than the New Year. We’ve put together a selection of our wellness winners, so that you can recreate the restorative spa treatment from home and stave off those January blues...
Homework Earth Glass Candle
Le Lift Pro Retexturising AHA Peel
The Retexturising AHA Peel was inspired by CHANEL spa treatments and professional facial peels. Combined with Melipona enzymatic ingredient, and highly concentrated (5%) AHAs, which act as chemical exfoliants, help remove dead skin cells and stimulate the skin's natural reviving cycle. Its fan-shaped brush applicator, inspired by professional tools, allows for even, precise application to the face. £165, available from chanel.com
With top notes of Fir needle and Elemi, middle notes of rose, geranium, cardamom, clove bud and black pepper, and base notes of musk, chinese cedar and patchouli, this candle thinks of Earth as stability. The meeting point of moderation and balance, nature and nurture, the element that makes you feel grounded, at home with youself and others. £35, available from anthropologie.com
Aesop Geranium Leaf Body Balm
Aesop’s body balm contains a rich blend of nourishing nut oils, skin-softening ingredients and geranium leaf and citrus extracts to provide exceptional hydration. £31, available from aesop.com
Jo Malone London Red Roses
Bath
Oil
Elevate your daily routine with decadent Red Roses Bath Oil. With sweet almond and jojoba oil, the formula transforms into milky bubbles, and scents and softens skin. Fill your bathroom with this romantic, floral fragrance. £54, available from jomalone.co.uk
L’Occitane Verbena Shower Gel
A shower gel with an irresistible and invigorating scent that will transform your shower into a genuine moment of pleasure. Formulated with aromatic verbena extract from Provence, this soothing body wash is loved equally by men and women. Each squeeze of this fragranced shower gel releases the crisp, citrusy scent of L'OCCITANE verbena. the revitalising scent of Provence. £17.50, available from loccitane.com
IPremium Intraocular Lenses in Cataract and Lens Surgery:
An Interview with Consultant Ophthalmologist Adam Ross
n the evolving field of cataract and lens surgery, premium intraocular lenses (IOLs) have revolutionized how patients experience vision correction. We sat down with consultant ophthalmologist Adam Ross to discuss these advanced options, including toric, trifocal/spiral, and extended depth/enhanced monovision lenses.
Thank you for joining us. To start, could you briefly explain the role of intraocular lenses in cataract surgery?
Absolutely. In cataract surgery, the natural lens of the eye, which has become cloudy, is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This lens restores clarity to vision and can be tailored to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Premium IOLs go a step further by offering additional benefits, such as reducing the need for glasses and providing enhanced visual quality.
What are premium IOLs, and how do they differ from standard lenses?
Standard monofocal lenses correct vision at a single distance, usually either near or far, so patients often need glasses for other tasks. Premium IOLs, on the other hand, are designed to improve focus at multiple distances or correct specific vision issues like astigmatism. Options like toric, trifocal, and EMV lenses are tailored to individual needs and lifestyles, significantly enhancing visual outcomes.
Let’s delve into the different types. Could you tell us about toric lenses and their benefits?
Toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) are specialized lenses used to correct astigmatism in patients undergoing cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, causing distorted or blurry vision. Toric IOLs are available in monofocal, multifocal, trifocal and EMV designs, and their use depends on the patient's visual needs and lifestyle.
How do trifocal/spiral lenses stand out compared to other multifocal lenses?
These lenses allow patients to focus at three distinct ranges: near, intermediate, and far. This means activities like reading, working on a computer, and driving can all be done reducing the dependency on glasses. The design of newer trifocal/spiral lenses reduces the visual disturbances—such as halos or glare—that were more common with earlier multifocal IOLs. However, a careful examination and discussion about the pros and cons of these lenses is essential on an individual basis.
You also mentioned extended monofocal lenses, or EMV lenses. What makes them unique?
These lenses, bridge the gap between traditional monofocals and multifocal lenses. They provide a greater range of vision than monofocals without the compromises in visual quality sometimes associated with multifocal lenses.
How do you determine which lens is best for a patient?
It’s a personalised process. We start by evaluating the patient’s eye health, including the presence of astigmatism or other refractive errors. We then discuss their lifestyle, hobbies, and expectations. For example, someone who frequently reads or works at a computer might prefer trifocal lenses, while a patient who drives a lot and values distance clarity might lean toward Extended Depth or EMV lenses. If astigmatism is a factor, a toric lens can be incorporated into the plan.
Are there any risks associated with these advanced lenses?
Premium IOLs are generally very safe, but as with any surgery, there are potential
risks, including infection or lens misalignment. Additionally, some patients may notice halos, glare, or difficulty with night vision, particularly with trifocal lenses, though these symptoms often improve over time. Careful preoperative assessments and discussions can mitigate these risks by ensuring the chosen lens suits the patient’s eyes and lifestyle.
Lastly, what advice would you give to someone considering cataract or lens replacement surgery with premium IOLs?
Do your research and have an open discussion with your surgeon. Understanding the options, the benefits, and any potential trade-offs is key. Make sure your choice aligns with your visual needs and lifestyle. With the right lens, cataract surgery can transform your vision and enhance your quality of life.
Premium intraocular lenses have ushered in a new era of vision correction, offering patients a range of customized solutions. With the expertise of specialists like Dr. Adam Ross, patients can navigate their options confidently and achieve outstanding visual outcomes. ■
Mr Adam Ross
MBChB, FRCOphth, FHEA, PGC Med Ed, MBA Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
To make an appointment contact: 01225 220 295 Email: office@theeyeunit.co.uk www.theeyeunit.co.uk
Walking the boundaries
Anyone who is a resident of Bath will have perambulated these walkways many times, but how many of them understand the significance of the carved inscriptions of SMP, WP or SPPP on the building walls? Andrew Swift unravels the mystery.
It’s remarkable how a few letters carved on a wall can open a doorway into a lost world. Take those enigmatic inscriptions such as SMP, WP or SPPP which can be found chiselled into various buildings around Bath. They mark the boundaries of three of the city’s parishes – St Michael’s, Walcot and St Peter & St Paul (otherwise known as the Abbey) – and date back to the days when parishes were important administrative units. Householders in each parish paid rates for such things as cleaning and lighting the streets, enforcing law and order, and providing poor relief, so it was essential to know where the boundaries lay. In rural areas, boundary stones were erected at key points, while in cities wall markers served a similar function. Each parish then organised an annual perambulation of its boundaries, accompanied by ‘beating of the bounds’, so that everyone knew knew precisely where they ran.
Municipal reforms in the 1830s saw parishes stripped of most of their civic responsibilities. They were relieved of the rest of them by the Local Government Act of 1894, but by then accurate maps had long rendered perambulations and boundary markers obsolete. In Bath, though, markers survive as part of the city’s historic streetscape. As for perambulations, although they died out as an annual ritual before the end of the 18th century, old habits died hard in Bath, as elsewhere, and there were sporadic attempts to revive them.
Perambulations of the boundaries of Bathwick parish were made in 1832, 1850 and 1869; of Lyncombe & Widcombe in 1817, 1844 and 1865; and of Walcot in 1816, 1828, 1848 and 1863. These were occasions that lived long in the memory, and were more like carnivals than reverential processions, with bands and banners, the firing of cannon, and
free food and drink for all. As the boundaries of each of the city’s parishes either followed or crossed the Avon, they also generally included a trip on a gaily bedecked barge.
In 1817, this led to tragedy, when a perambulation of the Abbey parish, along with that of St James, which adjoined it to the south, arrived at the Dolemeads, where a boat was waiting to carry the crowds across to South Parade. They were in such high spirits that far too many tried to scramble on board, and the boat capsized. Thirty people were thrown into the river, and six drowned. Not surprisingly, this was last perambulation of the Abbey parish.
Elsewhere, ever more elaborate perambulations continued, with some hair-raising exploits. On the perambulation of Walcot in 1863, three men were appointed to stick to the boundary no matter what, leaving the rest to seek less ambitious alternatives when obstacles were encountered. This not only saw them scrambling through hedges and walking along walls, but also climbing over the roof of a house on the Paragon – four storeys at the front but six at the back – although how they achieved this is not recorded.
One parish that does not seem to have staged one of these mass 19thcentury perambulations is St Michael’s. The survival of most of its boundary markers, however, means that it is a fairly straightforward proposition to rectify this omission and undertake a modern day circuit of the parish. No scrambling over buildings is required, no boats need to be chartered, and –rather more disappointingly – food and drink are not provided, although there are plenty of opportunities to obtain refreshments en route.
The starting point is, naturally, St Michael’s church – or to give it its full name, St Michael’s without the Walls. From here, a short walk along
The site of the former penitentiary in Walcot Street
Upper Borough Walls
Trim Street
Northgate Street, looking towards St Michael’s Church, c. 1905
Northgate Street leads to the first boundary marker – St.M.P. – on the left, above New Saville Row barber’s. This is where the North Gate crossed the street, and once through it you were in the parish of St Peter & St Paul.
A right turn along along Upper Borough Walls leads to the next marker – S.P.P.P. – on the wall of Stone King on the right. A few metres further on, between Brad Abrahams and Cascara is another set of markers –S’.M.P.S’.P.P.
Although this may suggest you are crossing back into St Michael’s parish, it is less straightforward than that. As its name suggests, Upper Borough Walls follows the line of the walkway within the city walls. When the walls – which the parish boundary followed – were demolished, buildings arose in their place, with their front walls built on the foundations. This meant that, while the street was in the Abbey parish, the buildings on the north side were in St Michael’s parish. This doubtless caused no end of confusion, hence the need for two sets of markers.
Further sets appear further along – on the east and west corners of Trim Bridge, and at the end of Upper Borough Walls, where a right turn leads us back into St Michael’s parish. Take the next right along Trim Street and turn left under St John’s Arch. The next set of markers – over the entrance to the Gin Bar – indicates that you are now entering Walcot parish – WP – or, as the marker opposite, over the door of No 10a, has it, WTP.
At the end of Queen Street, turn right along Quiet Street. Above the entrance to the Dressing Room (No 7) on the right, another WTP marker indicates you are crossing from Walcot back into St Michael’s. Turn left up Milsom Street and right at the top along George Street. Here, the boundary between St Michael’s and Walcot runs along the centre of the road, and continues along Bladud Buildings and The Paragon.
When you come to 27 The Paragon, look up to see a set of markers indicating that this is where the boundary between the two parishes turns
east. It was here that the fearless Walcotians of 1863 clambered over the roof to follow it. An easier alternative is to carry on past Walcot Church before doubling back along Walcot Street to the Bell, where a small St M P marker, painted white, heralds your return to St Michael’s. From here, the boundary runs along the middle of the street for 60 metres, before turning east, where a final marker can be found at ground level on the former Penitentiary. When it reaches the river, the boundary turns to follow it south for the last quarter of a mile, but, as no boat is available, you will have to make do with heading back along Walcot Street to St Michael’s. n
Andrew Swift has written books such as On Foot in Bath: Fifteen Walks around a World Heritage City (akemanpress.com).
Above: Beating the bounds of Bathwick Parish, 1832
Courtesy Bath Record Office
Meet Mocha Mousse
Pantone’s colour of the year for 2025 is PANTONE 17‐1230 Mocha Mousse, a warming brown hue imbued with richness, which nurtures us (so Pantone says) with its suggestion of the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee. Here’s a taste of the Mocha Mousse experience...
Sustainable Konduru Medium Natural Jute Table Lamp, Laura James, £59.99, laura-james.co.uk
Smeg Two Slice Toaster in Rose Gold, Coopers, £189.95 coopersappliances.com
Bergen Rust Decor Matt Stone Effect Porcelain, Mandarin Stone £47.50m2 mandarinstone.com
Gallery Direct Albany Leather Chair, Brown, John Lewis, £549; johnlewis.com
Old Havana Cereal Bowl, Anthropologie, £14; anthropologie.com
Josie Rectangular Pink Cushion, Graham & Green, £58; grahamandgreen.co.uk
Rare Thos. Moser Dining Table
Thos. Moser is a small American company specialising in high end handmade furniture. When the final handwork on a piece of Thos. Moser furniture is complete, it’s signed by the craftsperson who brought it to life. This table was manufactured in 2004 and is in the style of Arts and Crafts Movement with additional Japanese influence. It is unmarked. The wood is American Cherry, the auburn hue is rich and warm. It sits between 4 to 12 people (two leaves included).
£3,500 ono
01225 832324 | 07528787413
Branching out
At this time of year, the garden lies mostly dormant and its bare bones are revealed, writes Elly West, who explains how this makes it easier to decide on any structural changes, and why midwinter is actually the opportune moment to consider adding a tree to your plot.
My house is opposite a huge oak tree, and as I sit in my upstairs office looking out of the window and across the road, I realise how much I appreciate the view, constantly changing with the weather and the seasons.
Oaks are the best trees for biodiversity in the UK, according to the Woodland Trust, with mature specimens supporting around 2,300 wildlife species (not including the multitude of bacteria and other microorganisms).
While we may not have the space, or the patience, in our gardens for an oak, even the smallest plot can benefit from a tree, to add height and structure, plus a sense of permanence. My front garden at home is not large, but has five trees in total: two Japanese maples, a potted lollipop bay, an amelanchier and a magnolia, all earning their keep and providing their separate interest all year round.
At this time of year, the garden lies mostly dormant and its bare bones are revealed, making it easier to decide on any structural changes. When everything has died back, you can plan ahead and see where height is needed, perhaps to provide extra screening or a focal point, and it’s a good time to think about features that aren’t working, and what to remove or add. Trees can also be found at bargain prices during the dormant season, when they may well be sold root-balled or bare-root at a fraction of the cost of their potted counterparts.
A tree makes a great addition aesthetically, providing vertical interest all year round. Trees can frame a view, divide sections of the garden and blur the boundaries, creating the illusion of a larger space. Evergreens provide permanent structure and greenery, while deciduous trees often bring blossom and berries, plus changing foliage colours. Many trees, such as eucalyptus, silver birch or paperbark maple, also have the benefit of interesting and/or colourful bark.
Trees are great for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, squirrels, bees, caterpillars, moths and butterflies, plus they provide a good spot to hang bird feeders. They can also help our own physical and mental health, improving air quality and reducing noise pollution, and generally adding to the outdoor serenity that we look for in our gardens.
Which tree is right for me?
When choosing a new tree for the garden, perhaps the first consideration is its size and overall form. Although you can always cut back trees that get too large, it’s far better to choose one that is suited to the space to avoid too much maintenance. Trees with airy canopies, such as rowan (Sorbus), crab apples and hawthorn are good in smaller spaces as they filter the light, rather than becoming too dense and dominating the garden. The autumn cherry, Prunus x subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’ is another favourite of mine, producing semi-double, pink-tinged or white flowers from November to March, when not much else is flowering.
Deciduous trees are generally more interesting in terms of seasonal change, but may lose their appeal in winter when the branches are bare. If you want a tree for privacy or to screen an eyesore, then an evergreen option might be better. Photinia ‘Red Robin’ is a popular choice, with attractive leaves that turn from red to glossy green, or try Portuguese laurel, which has slim dark-green leaves and reddish stems. Both of these are easily pruned and trained to different shapes, such as a lollipop or pleached (clear stem, topped with a rectangular framework giving a contemporary look that’s good for adding extra height above a wall or fence). In a sunny and sheltered spot, an olive tree is an attractive evergreen choice, although slow growing. Holly is quick-growing if you don’t mind the prickles, while varieties of pittosporum, such as Pittosporum tobira and P. tenuifolium, although generally considered
evergreen shrubs rather than trees, can grow to several metres in a sheltered spot, and are easy to shape and train to suit the space.
Trees offer scope for ‘layers’ of planting, combined with bulbs, and lowgrowing perennials and shrubs around their base. I love a bit of a woodland theme, underplanting trees with hellebores, ferns and pachysandra, plus bluebells and snowdrops. Smaller trees can be grown in pots, then moved around to suit the season, or to change your garden layout. Japanese maples are a good choice for containers, providing a focal point on a patio or terrace.
A new tree is an investment that could be in your garden for many years to come, so it’s worth taking the trouble to give it the best start. The perfect time to plant is from autumn to spring, as long as the ground isn’t waterlogged or frozen. Dig a large planting hole, as deep as the tree’s root-ball, but three-times as wide, breaking up the soil and loosening it in the bottom of the hole. Soak the root-ball thoroughly before planting, and gently loosen the roots to encourage them to grow out into their new space. Make sure the tree is planted at the same height as it was in the pot and no deeper, then refill the hole and firm the soil with your heel to get rid of air pockets.
Larger trees will need staking, and you may also want to add a tree guard if rabbits or deer are likely to be a problem. Finally soak the area with water, add a layer of mulch, and keep watering regularly during dry spells for at least the first year while it gets established.
Ashton Court is a great place to see ancient trees, with the largest cluster of veteran oaks in the country outside of Windsor Great Park. It is home to the renowned Domesday Oak, very much coming to the end of its life, but estimated to be at least 800 years old. If you’re choosing a tree for your garden, Chew Valley Trees has an excellent website
Plant of the month: Amelanchier
The snowy mesipilus, more formally known as Amelanchier lamarckii, is one of my absolute favourite trees for a small garden. It’s at its show-stopping best in spring, when the starshaped pure-white flowers emerge in combination with the new small bronze leaves, that later turn green. It has a beautiful multi-stem form, and is fairly compact, so needs minimal pruning, which can spoil the shape. Purple-black fruits appear in summer through to autumn, and it also offers vibrant autumn colour. The berries are edible and can be used to make preserves, or as an alternative in sloe gin.
Amelanchier will grow in most soils and locations, but prefers a sunny spot for the best autumn colour. Underplant with spring bulbs such as Narcissus ‘Tete-a-tete’ and fritillaries for an elegant spring display.
(chewvalleytrees.co.uk) that will help you select the right tree for your space. The RHS website (rhs.org.uk) is another good starting point. n ellyswellies.co.uk
It’s so much easier to spend time with loved ones when we all live closer together. Family events, quality time with the grandchildren or simply having the peace of mind of being close by are just a few of the benefits. Pemberley Place offers a selection of new 1 and 2 bedroom apartments for sale exclusively to buyers over 55. Each low maintenance apartment benefits from contemporary style fixtures and fittings, a balcony or terrace, and a range of onsite communal facilities designed to make life comfortable and enjoyable. And visiting couldn’t be easier –Pemberley Place is conveniently located on Beckford Drive, off Lansdown Road, a short drive to the north of Bath city centre.
Pemberley Place has been designed for independent living with optional support should you ever need it. And, with a range of affordable purchasing options available, buying an apartment here could be a lot more affordable than you might think. Pemberley Place is brought to you by Anchor, England’s largest not-for-profit specialist provider of homes for people over 55 with more than 60 years of experience in the sector. For more information visit www.anchornewhomes.org.uk
Wharfedale House is a substantial 5-bedroom bay fronted Victorian family home, one of 6 in a handsome terrace, quietly set back from the road and conveniently within 5 minutes level walk of Bath city centre, Bath Spa Railway Station and the excellent local amenities in nearby Widcombe Village. This impressive property is presented in excellent decorative order throughout and offers spacious and flexible accommodation arranged over 5 floors and retains a wealth of period detail which blends beautifully with lovely contemporary finishes.
The property is set back from the road with an attractive parterre, gated ornamental garden to the front and a pretty courtyard garden, lined with a magnificent mature vine tree to the rear. In addition, there is rear gated access and a single garage available to purchase by separate negotiation.
The property is entered through an attractive hallway with solid Maple parquet flooring and doors to all ground floor rooms. To the front, with a lovely bay window overlooking the garden, there is a generous reception room that is currently being used as an office. To the rear there is a cosy family room/snug which could also be used as a further bedroom. The large and impressive well fitted kitchen / dining room is at the back of the property and conveniently leads to the courtyard garden at the rear. In addition, there is a single garage to the rear
Cobb Farr, 35 Brock Street, The Circus, Bath; Tel: 01225 333332 37 Market Street, Bradford on Avon; Tel: 01225 866111
• 2 large basement storage rooms with potential to conver
• A wealth of handsome period details
OIEO £1,250,000
Woolverton, Nr Bath
£750,000
A handsome semi-detached Grade II listed property, oozing character and charm with retained period features and beautiful mature gardens.
• Grade II listed property property
• 5 bedrooms
• 3 reception rooms
• Beautifully landscaped gardens
• Ample driveway parking
Bathwick Street, Bath
£1,250,000
A beautifully appointed and elegantly proportioned 5 bedroom
Grade II listed Georgian townhouse with a self contained 1 bedroom apartment and a lovely walled garden, within 5 minutes level walk of the city centre.
• Beautifully appointed accommodation
• 5/6 bedrooms, 2/3 reception rooms
• Open plan kitchen and dining room
• Separate one bedroom apartment which can be accessed from the house
01225 333332 | 01225 866111
Steeple Ashton, Wiltshire
Leigh Road, Bradford on Avon
The UK Property Market: Looking ahead to why presentation, value, and quality matter in 2025
As we approach the end of the year, it's always an opportune time to reflect on the property market's journey over the last twelve months and look at what lies ahead. At Peter Greatorex Unique Homes, my team and I have closely monitored shifts in market dynamics, helping buyers and sellers navigate this ever-changing landscape and I believe this year has set the stage for significant developments in the UK property market in 2025. Drawing on market insights and analysis, here’s our views on the current state of the market and what the year ahead holds.
This year, the UK property market demonstrated remarkable resilience. Despite challenging conditions early on, driven by lingering inflationary pressures and higher borrowing costs, there was a steady recovery. Activity remained slightly below pre-pandemic levels, yet it inched closer to the monthly averages of 2017-2019. Mortgage approvals for house purchases surged by 42% year-on-year in October, showing growing confidence among buyers.
According to Zoopla, sales agreed by the end of the year were up 19% compared to 2023, and buyer demand was 25% higher year-onyear. As a result, annual house price inflation rose to 1.5% by October, marking a sharp improvement from the -1.2% seen in 2023.
For buyers, 2024’s activity highlights the importance of acting decisively. With increased buyer activity and limited time to take advantage of current stamp duty rates (set to increase in April 2025),
competition is intensifying. Locking in a mortgage deal now could save significant costs, as rates are stable but not guaranteed to fall further in the near future.
Sellers, meanwhile, should capitalise on the current momentum in the market. While a healthy supply of homes for sale has driven more transactions, presenting your property effectively remains essential. Buyers, particularly in competitive prime markets like Bath, are increasingly focused on value, energy efficiency, and quality. Given the high cost of materials and renovations, we are seeing a shift in preference towards 'turn-key' properties, homes that are ready to move into rather than those requiring significant work.
Looking ahead, the market’s growth is expected to continue into 2025, albeit at a measured pace. Zoopla forecasts a 2.5% rise in house prices, alongside a 5% increase in transaction volumes, reaching 1.15 million sales. Despite uncertainties surrounding mortgage rate movements, lenders are expected to adapt with innovative affordability assessments, further boosting buyer confidence.
For buyers, preparation is key. Secure financing, understand your priorities, and move swiftly to void stamp duty changes. Sellers should focus on creating a standout listing by presenting well maintained properties, highlighting any unique selling points or those which are particularly resonating with buyers in your area. This could be close proximity to popular amenities and transport links or it could be particular improvements which have been made to your home. In addition, from April as more buyers hit the thresholds triggering higher stamp duty, sellers will need to factor this into their pricing strategies.
In today’s market, it’s about using innovative, targeted strategies to ensure your home reaches serious, motivated buyers in a proceedable position. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of opportunity, and we’re here to help you make the most of it.
For more information on how we can help you buy, sell, or explore off-market options, feel free to reach out to our team at Peter Greatorex Unique Homes. We’re here to help you secure your next home.
Peter Greatorex. Managing Director of Peter Greatorex Unique Homes
barn, situated
plot
of the picturesque village of Beckington. This handsome property boasts 4105 sq ft of internal accommodation spread over three floors in the main house. Along with private driveway parking, walled gardens and barn ripe for conversion STPP.
Victoria Bridge Road
Peter Greatorex Sarah White
Clesham
Peter Greatorex Sarah White
Clesham
Grosvenor Place • Guide Price £650,000
An elegant Grade I listed three-bedroom apartment. Living room, kitchen/diner, three bedrooms, study, two bathrooms. Views. 1526sq ft. No onward chain.
An exquisite Grade II Listed Georgian residence with three reception rooms, four double bedrooms and two bathrooms. Gardens and a garage. 2687sqft. Tax band F.
Broughton Gifford • Guide Price £675,000
A beautifully modernised family home. Kitchen/breakfast room, living room, conservatory, three beds, two ensuites, bathroom, attic room. Gardens, parking. 1901sq ft. EPC rating D.
Catharine Place • Guide Price £600,000
A stunning two-bedroom first floor apartment forming part of a splendid Grade II Listed building, currently being used as an Airbnb (with permission).
Lansdown • Offers in excess of £525,000
A charming Grade II Listed property. Living room, kitchen/diner, two bedrooms, bathroom. Courtyard garden. Tax band D. No onward chain. 1023sq ft.
Pera Place • Guide Price £595,000.
A beautifully presented family home. Living/dining/kitchen/breakfast room, three bedrooms, bathroom. Terraced garden. EPC rating E. No onward chain. 1246sq ft.
