The Bath Magazine July 2016 by MC Publishing Limited

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thebathmag.co.uk | ISSUE 166 | JULY 2016 £3.95 where sold

A JOLLY GOOD SUMMER

LEAN IN FOR A FUN–PACKED JULY

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

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THE | CONTENTS

JULY 2016

74 8

5 THINGS TO DO The go-to list for July in Bath

10 MY BATH

44 SIX OF THE BEST For outdoor summer treats

81 LOVE THE LIDO The south west’s best outdoor pools

46 THE DELICIOUS GUIDE

84 HEALTH & BEAUTY

54 RESTAURANT REVIEW

90 THE WALK

American Richard Wendorf

Six of the best magazines

56 FOOD HEROES

The Bath Airbnb hosts

58 THE WINE COLUMN

Dan Whiting of the Bath Holiday Co.

12 GUEST COLUMNIST 18 A STYLISH READ

20 HOME FROM HOME 24 FACE THE MUSIC Photographer, actor and front-of-house host Alan Cassé

26 WHAT’S ON Bath’s cultural calendar

34 BATH AT WORK Neill Menneer’s portrait of the month

36 ART

Our 2016 round-up of Bath’s top eateries

The Gainsborough, Bath

Top sandwich designer Made by Ben

Angela Mount’s summer favourites

60 A TASTE OF BATH Food producers visit Westminster

64 MOTORING

Driving Bentley’s Bentayga

42 CITY HISTORY

When Richard Beau Nash ruled Bath’s party scene

Even more great content online: thebathmag.co.uk 4 TheBATHMagazine

JULY 2016

Exploring Langridge

92 HOME STYLE Designer Clair Strong goes alfresco with outdoor furniture and party accessories

96 CITY HOUSES A stylish 21st century home

102 GARDENING The wizards of Oz

105 PROPERTY The best homes to buy or rent

70 RIVER BLADES Spotlight on Minerva Rowing Club

72 STAR LINE-UP

What the city galleries are showing

The scents of summer

Preview: Bath kids literature festival

74 SUMMER FUN GUIDE Ideas for the school holidays

ON THE COVER

Team work: synchronised swimmers dive into summer

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Pavilioned in splendour: what a fabulous addition to the garden this would make. Frome RajTent.com, four metre pavilion from £1,700

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from the

EDITOR

EDITOR’S PICKS TAKE THE PLUNGE: it’s high summer and time to find some flattering swimwear. Loving this Esther Williams inspired polka dot halter neck. £68 plus £3 posting from: forluna.com

hen the sun comes out to play we Brits go a bit crazy. We adopt often highly unflattering clothing, sprawl in ungainly manner on the grass in parks and gardens and sit outside cafés and restaurants watching the world go by, while fancying ourselves as part of café society. Daft we may be, but let’s hope that July actually offers us enough sunshine to indulge that holiday mood. We’ve embraced that joie de vivre in this issue. There are suggestions for stylish magazines to read in the sun, places to take the children to keep them entertained over the school holidays (see our summer fun gude, from Page 74) and lots of eateries where we can enjoy some delicious food and drink – whether alfresco or under shelter (from Page 44). As a city that relies on tourism for our bread and butter we thought now was a good time to feature some of the people working in that world. Jessica Hope spoke to some of the property owners turned entrepreneurs who rent their homes out on Airbnb. You can read about their experiences on Page 20. A group of food and drink producers did their bit to put Bath produce on the national stage when they took the Taste of Bath roadshow to the Houses of Parliament recently. See how they got on on Page 60. Our food hero of the month is already feted in the foodie world, having held the title Sandwich Designer of the Year. Melissa Blease talks to Ben, as in Made by Ben, about his life, loves and loaves on Page 56. If you’re, like me, someone who came to Bath as an adult, settled and never wants to leave, you’ll enjoy our Face the Music subject, Alan Casse (Page 24) who talks passionately about how coming to Bath changed his life irrevocably. Another relative newcomer is Professor Richard Wendorf, director of the American Museum in Bath, our guest columnist, writing eloquently about how he views British life and the Brits at work and play, Page 12. With the Rio Olympics just weeks away, we take a trip down to the River Avon (Page 70) and talk to members of the Minerva Rowing Club, where Olympian rower Helen Glover began her triumphant career. It may inspire you too to take to the water . . . There’s more besides, including art, gardening, the monthly walk, beautiful interiors, scents for summer and a trip back in time for the heyday of Bath’s Masters of Ceremonies (Page 42). We’re also previewing this autumn’s starstudded line-up for the tenth anniversary of the Bath Children’s Literature Festival, on Page 72. I hope you find your place in the sun to enjoy it all.

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

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STEP BACK IN TIME: throughout July and August the Roman Baths will be open until 10pm nightly. This gives us the chance to walk on the 2,000 year old paving stones by torchlight and get a real sense of what life must have been like in Bath in Roman times. Admission is free to local residents who hold a Discovery Card. There’s also a package which comprises a three course dinner at the Roman Baths Kitchen and Roman Baths entry for £39.50 a head.

❝

TWIN TALENTS: clever wordsmith Bath writer Stephen Curtis began the tale of a genius cat while he was working in a call centre many years ago. The Thinking Cat is a talking cat, naturally, and a bit of an entrepreneur. But falling on hard times he befriends a nineyear-old boy who’s never had a cat before. This delightful rhyming tale has been illustrated by Bath artist Jessica Palmer and will be available from the beginning of July.

Change will not come if we wait for some other person, or if we wait for some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek. BARACK OBAMA 44TH PRESIDENT OF UNITED STATES

❞

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ZEITGEIST

July

things to do in

Dance

Stand-up Lucy Porter

Laugh You can save yourself the return train fare to Edinburgh – £169 last time we looked – by checking out some of the best comedy before the festival. Yes, right here in Bath. Komedia in Westgate Street has lined up an impressive array of male and female comedians for three weeks of preview shows, as the acts test out their material ahead of Edinburgh. From 4 July right through to 27 July there’ll be the chance to flex your laughter muscles. Names to watch out for in Bath include Seann Walsh, Lucy Porter, Naz Osmanoglu, Andrew Hunter Murray, Jasper Cromwell-Jones and Luke Kempner – check out his fabulous one-man impression sketch The Only Way is Downton on YouTube.

Play School’s out this month (Tuesday 19 July for Bath and North East Somerset schools) and the long summer beckons. Make this the season to try something new, whether it be tackling the famous Bath Skyline walk, getting the bikes out of the shed to venture through the Two Tunnels route in Bath, or launching yourself down a zip wire. Pictured is the zip wire at Mill on the Brue adventure centre at Bruton in Somerset which runs outdoor adventure days for active children. We’ve got lots more ideas of things to do with your children during the school holidays. Turn to our comprehensive Summer Fun guide, which begins on Page 74.

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It’s party time in Bath this month as the community led Bath Carnival prepares to fill the city with Brazilian Carnival style music, colour and fun. Preparations have been underway for months to make this an occasion for all ages and all areas of the city. On Saturday 16 July, Parade Gardens will be filled with families enjoying carnival events. Schools and community groups have been busy designing and making Rio carnival inspired costumes, which will form part of a colourful procession through the city. Be prepared for some spontaneous dancing in the streets. For more information about exact times and specific happenings visit: bathcarnival.co.uk.

Book The famous red chair of the Bath Children’s Literature Festival is going to be sat in by some of the of the biggest names in children’s books. Tickets go on sale from Monday 4 July for the festival, which runs from Saturday 1 to Sunday 9 October. Among the best sellers are comedian turned children’s writer David Walliams, Canadian astronaut, Colonel Chris Hadfield and Michael Morpurgo who’ll be talking about his latest novel An Eagle in the Snow, a tale about a man who could have stopped World War Two before it began. There’ll be visits from historian Lucy Worsley, who’s written a novel for children set in Tudor times and from broadcaster and horse racing expert Clare Balding, who has penned the sort of book that she’d have liked to read as a pony-mad child. You can see highlights from this year’s festival – celebrating its tenth birthday – on Page 72. For details on how to buy tickets visitbathfestivals.org, or pick up one of the brightly coloured paper programmes with the distinctive red chair on the cover.

Walk This summer is an ideal time to get out and about to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the birth of the great gardener, Lancelot Capability Brown by exploring some of the landscapes that he created. Bath Spa University’s Newton Park campus was designed by him, and is home to a lakeside walk, woods, rolling fields and the remains of a castle. You can also admire his work at Dyrham, Longleat, Prior Park, Badminton, Bowood and Blenheim. For more details about where to see Capability’s work visit: capabilitybrown.org.

The grounds of Blenheim Palace were designed by Capability Brown

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THE CITY THE BUZZ

Winners Public voting has seen two Bath businesses win their categories in the Muddy Stilettos website awards. Frontline Style, pictured, came first in the regional search for the best hair salon and best day spa categories, while Spotty Herberts shop won the best children’s business category.

In the picture

This extraordinary photograph was taken by one of the world’s leading photographers, Sebastiao Salgado, from his eight year long project to capture undiscovered locations all around the world. PhotoBath, a not-for-profit group, has been offered the chance to show Salgado’s black and white Genesis collection in the city this November. The collective needs to raise £2,500 towards the cost of framing and publicity. People have until the end of July to contribute. Pledge support at: kickstarter.com/projects/1123529072/ salgado-exhibition-in-bath or visit PhotoBath on Facebook.

Book of the month A History of the World in 500 Walks by Sarah Baxter, published in hardback by Aurum Press, £20 Travel writer Sarah Baxter, who lives in Bath, has compiled a beautiful and fascinating book which explores history through a series of walks all over the world. Sarah believes that to walk the landscape is the closest we can get to travelling back in time. The 500 walks span time and geographical distance, from the Appalachian trail through what are arguably the world’s oldest mountains

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My BATH

We ask Dan Whiting, co-owner of The Bath Holiday Company what he’ll be doing this month

Picture: courtesy of Mirella Jane Photography

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What brought you to Bath? I was born and bred in Bath, attending a local school. I have only recently returned to the city, having first moved to New York, where I met my wife Natasha, who coincidentally is also a Bathonian. We then did our stint in London for a number of years and are now back in glorious Bath – there is so much going on. What are you reading? I’m reading Bill Bryson’s The Road to Little Dribbling which is the follow up to his Notes from a Small Island. It’s great to see Britain through the eyes of a foreign travel writer and he adds a lot of humour. What are you listening to? I love music and live events so don’t like to tie myself to any one genre. Currently listening a lot to Birdy’s new album Beautiful Lies but can’t wait to see The Swingers at WOMAD festival on 29 July and Circo in George Street on 15 July – their electro swing music/spectacle is infectious; it’s actually impossible not to get up and dance! Which museums or galleries take your fancy? I harbour a secret desire to be a tour guide; I love history and Bath has it in abundance – lift your eyes as you walk the streets, there is so much more to see. I intend to go to the original Theatre Royal and Masonic Museum. It looks fascinating. What local outdoor event or activity will you be doing or visiting? Having just returned from Thailand for our honeymoon I am excited about the Bath Thai Festival in Royal Victoria Park over the weekend of 2/3 July. I have also recently discovered the Two Tunnels Greenway, the disused railway track that has been made into a cycle/walk way. The route takes you from Bath city centre through two tunnels (the name may have given that one away . . .) out to Tucking Mill. You can then loop

around using the canal path back into Bath – a delightful experience. Which café or restaurant takes your fancy? I am passionate about all the independents we have in Bath and could happily sit all day drinking coffee at the likes of The Green Bird Café or Society Café, but in terms of restaurants The Beaufort on London Road is my current favourite, run by the Tack Brothers (the talented chaps behind The Green Park Tavern aka GPT). The roasts are to die for. Film or play? I am a regular cinema-goer and adore the charming Little Theatre cinema. I’m about to say goodbye to my street cred and admit I think the next film we are going to see is Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie! With regards to plays I can’t wait for the immersive theatre experience Far Fetched Theatre is producing which will hit Bath this summer, adapted from the brilliant American novel The Phantom Toll Booth. What’s your latest project? Having worked in the world of technology and customer services on a corporate scale, I am now working in the family business The Bath Holiday Company. It’s an exciting time as we are looking to expand the number of holiday lets, or more commonly now Airbnb properties, we manage for people in and around Bath. Excuse the pun but it’s no cottage industry and it’s been great for us to draw on my technical experience to deliver the best returns for our homeowners and give our guests the best experience of Bath possible. Reputation is everything and building on the company’s trusted name allows us to take the stress out of property and booking management for homeowners. It’s lovely working with my mother Katie and it is great to be able to promote something you are proud of – Bath. Visit: holiday-lets.com

in the eastern United States, through to the Jubilee Walkway in London, mapped out as recently as 1977, this collection explores mankind’s long walk through time. Some, such as Hadrian’s Wall, Offa’s Dyke or the South West Coastal path, may be familiar to many of us, while a rugged trek and camping trip to the summit of Mount Olympus in Greece, or into the heart of the ancient red city of Petra in Jordan, may be more ambitious. Indeed, some of these walks are adventures of a lifetime. Most of us, for instance, are unlikely to visit Easter Island and see the mysterious stone heads, but this, along with some of the other

more far-flung walks, make fascinating reading. Well informed and intelligently written, along with some fine photography and loads of facts and useful data about the terrain, this book would make a fine gift for the adventurous at heart, whether an armchair explorer or an intrepid traveller. GMc

On 15 July it’s St Swithin’s Day, when folklore says if it rains that day, it continues to rain for 40 days and 40 nights. We’re following @BBCweather which gives local and national short and long range forecasts, along with reminding us how lucky we are with UK weather by sharing news of droughts, floods and heatwaves happening in diﬀerent parts of the world.

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THE | COLUMNIST

AN AMERICAN IN BATH

few weeks ago I marched over to the Guildhall in Bath, affirmed my allegiance to crown and country, became a dual citizen, and thereby relinquished my peculiar status as a ‘highly skilled migrant’ in the eyes of the Home Office. The entire process takes at least six years. It is tiresome, frustrating, and expensive – but rather easier than qualifying for a British driver’s licence. High time, I thought, to take stock of my experience here and to reflect on the ways in which this country has changed (or stayed the same) since I lived here as a student at Oxford over 40 years ago. It is no secret that I love living in Bath. I have a wide circle of friends and I enjoy entertaining on both a large and a more intimate scale. The cultural amenities are remarkable for such a small city, and for someone who is a scholar of England in the 18th century, the architecture and design of the city are a constant delight. I also love working at the American Museum, which offers such a different perspective on our shared Anglo-American cultural history – and represents an attractive alternative to Roman and Georgian splendour. I cherish the manor house, the gardens and grounds, and the amazing views. And having now served as the director for over six years, I have a first-rate team of colleagues, many of whom I have either hired or promoted (or both). And because London is reached so easily, I have no regrets at having forsaken my native Chicago or my adopted home of Boston. My club, the Athenaeum, offers the unusual sight of ‘the brainy boys and girls’ disporting themselves in quite sumptuous neoclassical grandeur. The Athenaeum and the London Library are my homes away from home, supplemented by the Society of Antiquaries, the Pilgrims, and the Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars. There is always much to do – often too much to do – when I visit London, and the cultural side of my life is augmented by the enticements of Jermyn Street or by my tailor near Marble Arch. Many of the institutions for which Britain is so celebrated abroad have, in my opinion, only

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THE VIEW FROM HERE: Professor Richard Wendorf is director at the American Museum at Claverton, Bath improved during the past several decades. Someone recently wrote that the British remain pre-eminent at soldiering, tailoring, character acting – and vomiting in public. Yes, this is a much less polite society than the one I knew in the 1970s, and the rudeness is now endemic, not just the effect of the country attracting and absorbing millions of tourists and immigrants. When well-dressed men and women allow a door to slam in my face – and then superficially apologise – I tell them not to worry, that I’ve lived in England for over five years and that I’ve gotten used to the rudeness. And what I observe on the pavement I sense even more strongly when I drive my car about town. For all of the regulation that has been imposed on modern society here – especially in the abundance of traffic signs and bizarrely painted roads – we still seem to have spawned generations of horn-heavy drivers who have made a competitive sport of getting from A to B before you do.

❝

I trust that there will always be an England, one in which half of the women are (or were) named Liz, Sarah, Emma, or Sue

❝

RICHARD WENDORF DIRECTOR OF THE AMERICAN MUSEUM IN BRITAIN REFLECTS ON HIS SIX YEARS OF LIVING AND WORKING IN ENGLAND

But the public drinking, the behaviour at sporting events, and the expanded girth of John Bull are not unique to the British Isles; these are ubiquitous social factors across the continent – and not least in America. Proper grammar is in decline, some fret (but then it’s always perceived as being in decline; that’s the nature of an organic language). When I was a student at Oxford, the most significant social marker was whether one had taken a university degree. Given the expansion of higher education, that distinction has become much less relevant. The real divisions are between north and south and between those who

attended private school and those who did not. This has become, moreover, a very expensive nation in which to live: the taxes are high, the deductions allowed are small, the cost of living is sometimes shocking – and the state of philanthropic giving deserves an entire essay of its own. Many of the things that I most enjoy in my new home have never changed, I’m happy to say: Sunday roast dinner (12:45pm until 4pm), the dry sense of humour, the resignation to recent or impending disaster, the habit of teasing rather than praising, and – perhaps most noticeable to an American scholar – the seriousness with which writers and artists are treated in Britain. Yes, we have become something of a celebrity society peopled by footballers and television personalities; but the amount of coverage given to literature and the arts remains unusually high. I cannot imagine an American television network even mentioning the winners of various literary awards, let alone devoting live coverage to the announcement of something akin to the Costa and Booker prize winners each year. The New Yorker magazine used to run a small notice at the bottom of the page entitled There Will Always Be An England. Most of the notices reproduced there focused on English men and women giving artificial respiration to injured hedgehogs. I trust that there will always be an England, one in which half of the women are (or were) named Liz, Sarah, Emma, or Sue, and in which the men are (or were) given names that you will never come across in the United States: Simon, Rupert, Robin, Nigel, Adrian, Julian, Anthony, Ian, Colin, Miles, Giles, Florian, Finbar, Gareth, Noel, Maximilian, Peregrine, and Valerian (okay, the last two are dukes, but still . . .). When I meet people, the first question I am almost always asked is how the American Museum is faring. For the past year I have only been asked one question: ‘What do you make of Donald Trump?’ That, too, would take an entire essay to answer. In the meantime, just continue asking me about my wonderful museum. n

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THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

July 2016

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INDULGE YOURSELF WITH OUR SUMMER STYLE SHOW! RARE HANDBAGS, BESPOKE SHOES, AMAZING DIAMONDS

Ladies, come join us for a luxurious free exhibition show with champagne, chocolates and a feast for the eyes ...

BATH SHOWROOM 12 Northumberland Place 18 – 23 JULY This summer we’re bringing the fabulous to town with a very special event showcasing a collection of stunning vintage collectible designer handbags, gorgeous hand-made shoes and, of course, dazzling diamonds! Nicholas has brought together all these elements that ladies love for a week-long exhibition at both our Bath and Bristol branches. Come along to see a colourful collection of vintage bags, designer shoes and our own unique ranges of sumptuous diamond jewellery while you enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbly from Nicholas’ own branded champagne, supplied by www.greatwesternwine.co.uk and a delicious chocolate by www.charlottebrunswick.com

VINTAGE COLLECTABLE DESIGNER HAND BAGS These bags are vintage cool from such iconic names as Hermes, Chanel & Louis Vuitton. And for the collectors among you, all are available to buy! Come along and be stunned by these unique vintage bags – including an Ostrich-skin Dior bag screen-used by Sarah Jessica Parker in the 2008 movie ‘Sex in the City’! In collaboration with www.luxdluxvintage.com

FABULOUS HAND-MADE SHOES If you have lovely bags you must have lovely shoes to compliment and these bespoke designer shoes certainly fit the bill! In collaboration with www.chaniibshoes.com

See more online thebathmag.co.uk

Steve Miklos steve@thebathmagazine.co.uk

Editor Tel: Email:

Georgette McCready 01225 424592 georgette@thebathmagazine.co.uk

Financial Director Email:

Jane Miklos jane@thebathmagazine.co.uk

Production Manager Email:

Jeff Osborne production@thebathmagazine.co.uk

Web Editor/Production Jessica Hope Email: jessica@thebathmagazine.co.uk Contact the Advertising Sales team tel: 01225 424499 Advertising Sales Email:

Liz Grey liz@thebathmagazine.co.uk

Advertising Sales Email:

Jake Horwood jake@thebathmagazine.co.uk

The Bath Magazine and The Bristol Magazine are published by MC Publishing Ltd. An independent publisher.

The Bath Magazine is distributed free every month to more than 20,000 homes and businesses throughout Bath and the surrounding area. We also have special distribution units in the following city centre stores and coffee shops

‘WOW–WORTHY’ DIAMONDS From our unique Wylde Flower Diamond ® to our extensive ranges of gorgeous jewellery, the ‘Wylde Effect’ has been weaving its magic for nearly 30 years! For this event, along with the Wylde Flower Diamond®, Nicholas has put together a selection of fabulous diamonds with fancy cuts, including horse’s head, rare colours and gems with stunning sparkle.

To attend one of these unique and special events, please book your place by calling the Bath showroom on 01225 462826 or by emailing: bath@nicholaswylde.com

2 Princes Buildings, George Street, Bath BA1 2ED Telephone: 01225 424499. Fax: 01225 426677 thebathmag.co.uk © MC Publishing Ltd 2016

Nicholas Wylde, Goldsmith & Jeweller, 12 Northumberland Place, Bath BA1 5AR n

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Disclaimer: Whilst every reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to The Bath Magazine, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to such material. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the authors. This publication is copyright and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers.

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SUMMER | SHOPPING

SUMMER

SPARKLE

Make a statement with your outfit this summer with a sparkling piece of jewellery

18ct yellow gold circle pendant resplendent with fire opals and diamonds, £2,625, exclusive to Nicholas Wylde, 12 Northumberland Place, Bath BA1 5AR. Tel: 01225 462826, visit: nicholaswylde.com

Magenta and orange cube earrings, £42, Quadri, 16 Milsom Place, Milsom Street, Bath BA1 1BZ. Tel: 01225 329212, visit: quadri.co.uk

Silver cup bracelet set with blue topaz and green amethysts, £1600, Tina Engell, 29 Belvedere, Bath BA1 5HR. Tel: 01225 443334, visit: tinaengell.com

9ct rose gold ring, £875, Jody Cory Goldsmiths, 9 Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1 1LY. Tel: 01225 460072, visit: jodycory.co.uk

18ct white gold diamond and pear shaped morganite drop earrings, £2,750, Mallory, 1-5 Bridge Street, Bath, BA2 4AP. Tel: 01225 788800, visit: mallory-jewellers.com

Sapphire and ruby bangles, £350, Gold and Platinum Studio, 19 Northumberland Place, Bath BA1 5AR. Tel: 01225 462300, visit: goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk

Amethyst paisley pendant, £25, Pia, 3 Union Street, Bath, BA1 1RP. Tel: 01225 789399, web: piajewellery.com Orangutan floral crystal ring, £55, Bill Skinner, Northumberland Place, Bath, BA1 5AR. Tel: 01225 448823, visit: billskinnerstudio.com

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LIGHTING SPECIALIST

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THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

July 2016

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CITY | READING

MAGAZINES FOR THE BEACH

With such an array of unusual, intelligent and inspirational reads on offer, specialist magazines are fast becoming the next big thing. We visited independent magazine store Magalleria to find the best ones to take on our summer holidays

CAREER CHANGER

Lagom, £10 A surfboard maker from Brooklyn, an art director-come-track bike racer, and a restaurant owner serving customers insects – these are just some of the fascinating people featured in the latest issue of Lagom. This quarterly magazine, which is published in Bristol, celebrates the stories of inspirational people from a whole range of different career backgrounds, including hotels, crafts, restaurants and interiors. There are also sections for readers to tap into their creative sides with guides on how to get crafty and a selection of recipes, including how to make the best rum cocktails.

FASHION FORWARD

System, £7 Those looking for an insightful magazine about the fashion industry, System may just be your best bet. Full of intelligent articles, interviews with the best in the business and fashion photography at its finest, System reveals the world of fashion from a different perspective compared to more mainstream fashion magazines. Marco Bizzarri and Alessandro Michele, CEO and creative director of Gucci, grace the cover of the most recent issue as part of their joint interview, which offers an enlightening take on how they have made such a success in the fashion world. The magazine, which is published twice a year, is not simply about clothes and accessories; it’s focuses on how the industry works, how history has influenced what we’re wearing today, and includes essays about current issues – one stand out opinion piece in the latest issue is titled Lipstick Feminism.

A ROOM WITH A VIEW

Openhouse, £13 Published twice a year, Openhouse lets readers into the homes of some of the most creative people across the world. Featuring intuitive interviews and beautifully shot photographs of the interiors of these people’s homes, this magazine reveals the most exciting style trends occurring around the globe. The magazine’s slogan is ‘the life we share’, and oh do they certainly do that. Interviewees open up their homes so you can discover new places, learn about new activities and hobbies taking place in the featured cities and maybe even visit these hidden gems. Plus, with features on food trends, art and design, you’ll come back from holiday feeling inspired to transform your home.

ONE FOR THE KIDS

The Caterpillar, £4 This beautifully illustrated magazine will keep the children occupied on long car journeys or in between playing on the beach this summer. Aimed at children aged around seven to 11, The Caterpillar is full of poems, art and short stories, and it even features a doodle page. The likes of Michael Morpurgo, Dennis Lee and Janet Wong have had their work featured in the magazine, which is the perfect size to slip into a child’s backpack. There’s even a ‘This magazine belongs to’ section for the child to personalise.

TECHNO

Offscreen, £13 Delving into the ever-growing world of technology, Offscreen reveals the stories, successes and failures of those who have built their businesses through the web, apps and other tech devices. The magazine brings readers the latest news from the online world and keeps you up to date with the latest gadgets. The most recent issue includes interviews with Airbnb co-founder Joe Gebbia about how technology has changed the way people travel, and Professor Robin Hunicke on how to make a successful indie game. Thinking about starting up a digital business or an app? Offscreen, which is printed quarterly, might have some handy tips to help you get your project off the ground.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Gather Journal, £14 This is a food magazine like no other. Filled with delicious recipes and superb food photography, you’ll probably end up wanting to make everything in Gather Journal. Each magazine follows a specific theme, with the summer issue being a homage to the 1970s. Each chapter focuses on areas that defined the decade, including television, music, film and even David Bowie, which makes us all nostalgic. Alongside these features are recipes influenced by these themes, such as rhubarb grapefruit syllabub with spiked meringues and the six o’clock news cocktail. There are even music recommendations to accompany each recipe, so you know what to have as your soundtrack to your dinner

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party. Gather Journal has already been recognised for its creative approach to food writing and, despite this only being its ninth edition, has already been the winner of a James Beard Award, the Six Society of Publication Designers Gold Medals, and the Art Directors Club Award. Magalleria holds all of the back issues of the magazine so readers can collect them all.

Visit Magalleria at 22a Broad Street, Bath BA1 5LN. Web: magalleria.co.uk, tel: 01225 471586, twitter: @MagalleriaBath.

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SUMMER SALE

NOW BUZZING

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

Contemporary interior furniture and lighting from Carl Hansen and Son, and Fritz Hansenand Swedese. Homewares from Marimekko, Iittala and Arabia with fabrics, and throws from Finland and Sweden.

68 Walcot Street Bath BA1 5BD 01225 424222 www.shannon-uk.com THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

JULY 2016

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DON’T GO THERE – LIVE THERE

Jessica Hope peers through the doors of some of Bath’s Airbnb properties and speaks to the hosts about opening their homes to visitors from all across the world

ourists who come to Bath have the chance to experience life in one of its historic homes, thanks to the Airbnb scheme. From luxurious flats in some of the world’s most famous architectural crescents to unusual treehouses, country manors to converted barns; you could say visitors are rather spoiled for choice when they visit. With more than 300 properties in and around the city already signed up, tourists can get a snapshot of what it is really like to live in this Georgian city. In the last few years, Airbnb has taken the world by storm. Despite being founded in San Francisco only eight years ago, the holiday lettings company is now estimated to be worth more than $25.5 billion, according to fortune.com. With over two million properties listed in more than 34,000 cities across the world, travellers are swapping hotels for city centre apartments, restaurant breakfasts for poached eggs in bed, and noisy hotel guests for peace and tranquility. There are also great benefits for those putting their properties on Airbnb. If you decide to go on holiday for a few weeks, you can let out your property and make some money while you’re hundreds of miles away, relaxing on a

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sun lounger. Or, for those looking for a bit more of an income, users can rent out their properties all year long. It’s flexible, and that’s one of the key reasons why it’s become so popular. In reaction to the increase in popularity of holiday letting sites, the government recently changed the law so that those who rent out their homes can now receive up to £7,500 before being taxed, and they can also rent out a room for up to 90 days a year without needing to secure planning permission. We spoke to property owners in and around Bath and asked them about why they let out their homes and found out what it’s really like to be a host on Airbnb. BARRY AND BRENDA GOODWIN Bassett Coach House and studio, Claverton After retiring in 2013, Barry Goodwin and his wife Brenda headed off on what he calls their ‘senior gap year’, travelling the world and spending the remainder of their air miles. After coming home to a large empty house in Claverton, just outside Bath, the couple decided to put the house on the market and buy a smaller property. Their house soon received plenty of

viewings and a couple of offers, but Barry and Brenda hadn’t found a property that seemed ideal for them to move to. “Then someone came to view the house and said in passing that if he owned this house he would run Airbnb from it. That caught my interest as our youngest son had recently used the service in Copenhagen and raved about it”, says Barry. “The following morning I logged onto the site, opened an account and created a profile.” It was as simple as that. Soon after signing up, the couple were inundated with enquiries from people all acround the world, so they decided to take their property off the market and see how running it as an Airbnb property would go. That was nearly two years ago, and they haven’t looked back since. Barry and Brenda first bought their property in Claverton 16 years ago as a family home. “We never dreamt that we would be doing anything like Airbnb from it,’ says Barry. “However, the house is a lovely listed building in an area of outstanding natural beauty, so why not use that asset to drive some additional income? What a great idea for us and thousands of other owners

ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY: main picture, the exterior of Bassett Coach House in Claverton

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around the world.” Barry and Brenda let out both the main house and the annexe to visitors. Bassett Coach House includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a large lounge area, kitchen and games room. The two-story annexe is used as the Bassett studio, perfect for a couple and one child. The couple live in the main house in a private area away from the guests. Situated in such a peaceful and picturesque area just outside Bath, it’s unsurprising that they have had so much interest in their property. The views over Conkwell woods always impress guests, Barry tells me. And with direct access to the Kennet and Avon canal towpath, the Dundas Aqueduct and Canal Visitor centre, visitors can enjoy a relaxing day on the water. It’s those extra little touches make the Airbnb experience for guests that little bit better than staying in a hotel. Brenda always bakes a loaf of bread and makes homemade jam for guests, which always goes down well in the reviews, and Barry enjoys telling visitors about the

local area and its vast history. So why use Airbnb? Alongside being an additional source of income, Barry says it’s the flexibility of the website that helps them run their business so smoothly. “We block out our diary when we want to go away on holiday. You can literally switch it on and off to suit your lifestyle.” The website also makes it easy to deal with the money side of things too. “Airbnb handle all transactions and the day after your guests check in, the money is paid into your bank.” As hosts you too can meet some fascinating people from all corners of the world. One of Barry’s highlights of hosting was when a family from Spain came to stay and taught him how to make the perfect Spanish omelette. After receiving such positive comments from guests, Barry and Brenda now stay in Airbnb properties when they go on holiday. From a ski apartment in Chamonix to a beautiful flat in Mayfair, each property they’ve stayed in is unique and allows them a different experience than staying in hotel chains.

THROUGH THE KEYHOLE: Above, left, the Moroccan style bar in The Grovernor’s property, right, the modern living room in The Vaults, and below, the canal which runs close to Bassett Coach House, Claverton

To find out more about Bassett Coach House and studio, visit: airbnb.co.uk/rooms/3491511. JO TRAFFORD The Vaults and The Governor’s, city centre Jo Trafford and his family, who are based in Cape Town, South Africa, began searching for a property a few years ago that they could use when visiting their friends and family in Bath, which they could also rent out as a holiday letting throughout the rest of the year. After purchasing their first property, The Vaults, in Bath in 2014, Jo and his wife Lucy saw an opportunity to set up their own holiday accommodation business – hiplets.com – where they could provide guests with high quality places to stay in great locations on their travels. After renovating the property, making the accommodation seem both homely and stylish, perfect for adults and children, Jo began advertising the property on Airbnb. “It seemed to offer a good source of rental income when we were not using the property for ourselves. It allowed us flexibility, without being tied into the high holiday rental fees of your standard holiday rental companies,” Jo says. And using Airbnb seemed to help Jo and Lucy further when they purchased their second property in Bath, The Governor’s – a beautifully renovated townhouse, five minutes from the city centre, which can sleep up to ten people. Ideal for a large group of friends, the hidden gem of this property is the inhouse bar, designed in an opulent Moroccan style. You can even add a bottle of Champagne to your booking, so you wouldn’t even need to head out to a bar for a drink. It’s these little touches that make the holiday rental experience that extra special, according to Jo. “For travellers, Airbnb does let you find more unusual places to stay than your average hotel or

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hostel. I think travellers these days are attracted to ways of travelling that allow them to discover hidden gems,” he says. One aspect that holiday letting sites like Airbnb have over hotels is its childfriendly nature. Many families prefer the homely feel of a property, with bedrooms decorated especially for children, cots and high chairs available and some properties even provide toys, games and children’s DVDs. For Jo and Lucy, they use Airbnb properties frequently on their travels, not only because it’s a trustworthy platform, but because they find it easier and better when travelling with their young children. You’d expect running a business in Bath all the way from South Africa would be a difficult task, but for Jo and Lucy having a trusted team based in Bath behind the properties has really helped them. “We are lucky that we have such a great team on the ground, from our management team to the cleaners, all are great and ensure things run smoothly,” Jo says.

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To find out more about the properties featured on Hiplets, visit: hiplets.com. BECKY GROBLER Great Pulteney Street, city centre After her youngest child started school, Becky Grobler wanted to find the ideal job that she could fit around school hours. After meeting a friend who enthused about using Airbnb to market her holiday home in Bath, in January 2013 Becky looked into the possibility of renting out her property on the site, and it has gone from strength to strength for her ever since. The townhouse on Great Pulteney Street has been in Becky’s family for over 70 years and is separated into five rental properties – two long-term flats and three holiday rentals that she advertises on Airbnb. The ground floor apartment, The Artpad, is an elegant Georgian home with modern touches. With its highcorniced ceilings, marriage doors and large bay windows, you can easily imagine how this property may have

looked in its Georgian heyday. Also featuring a modern kitchen, welldesigned furnishings, super king size bed and cosy private balcony, guests can live in luxury during their stay in Bath. The location is ideal for those wanting to be as close to the city centre as you can get. With the Holburne Museum just along the road, cafés and restaurants on your doorstep, The Rec close by and the shops just around the corner, these holiday rentals are perfect for those looking to live like a local. What makes Becky’s Airbnb properties even more special is that you can even buy the artwork on the walls and take a little piece of your stay home with you. Becky, a primary school teacher who specialises in art, strives to support local artists by offering them space to exhibit their work in the properties. Over the past few years, she has sold many pieces on behalf of local artists to her guests. If you’re a local artist and would like to have your work exhibited, then visit 62gps.co.uk to find details on how to contact Becky. After running these properties for a few years now, is there anything Becky has changed in her business strategy? “Yes, loads! I change various things on a daily basis, i.e. prices, marketing ideas, website updates. Even updates in the apartments – changing furniture, artwork and generally keeping an eye on them to make sure we always offer a high standard. It's important to us that our spaces are welcoming, relaxing and spotlessly clean.” And with more and more visitors looking for self-catering accommodation in Bath, hosts are constantly learning new things to keep their properties up to date with what their guests are looking for. Becky says: “It's vital to keep up to date with my competitors so I am always keeping a sneaky eye on the current market trends. Holiday lets in Bath have increased hugely since we joined four years ago, but we still

GEORGIAN GLAMOUR: Above, the bedroom and kitchen in The Artpad, Great Pulteney Street, and below, the cosy balcony

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INSIDE | AIRBNB manage to retain many of our loyal, lovely guests, so we must be doing something right.” To find out more about this property, visit: 62gps.co.uk. GAIL AND TONY SMITH Stowford Mill House, Wingfield, Wiltshire Set near the historic village of Wingfield, nine miles from Bath, you’d expect to see characters from period dramas such as Cranford tottering around, not holiday makers looking for a country retreat. Gail and Tony Smith’s property isn’t your average holiday letting. Stowford Mill House is an early 18th century property based on Stowford Manor Farm in Wiltshire. Surrounded by pots of lavender and colourful hanging baskets, you can just imagine sitting back in the large garden, enjoying a pot of tea in the sunshine, and listening to the Frome river trickling past at the end of the garden. You can even go for a paddle with the local wild swimming club, which is the oldest in the country, if that takes your fancy. And when the weather turns grey, visitors can tuck into a glorious cream tea on the farm, or snuggle up in front of the roaring open fire in the sitting room, after a long country walk. With Bradford On Avon and Farleigh Castle nearby and Bath and Longleat a short drive away, this is an idyllic spot

for those wanting to explore the countryside while staying in a unique location. After having such positive experiences of using Airbnb on their travels in South Africa, Norway, France and the UK, in 2015 Gail and Tony decided to try using it with their already very successful bed and breakfast business that they have been running for the past eight years. Rather than letting out a few rooms, groups can instead rent out the whole property, which is ideal for large parties as the house can sleep up to ten people. Having the option of letting the entire property on Airbnb does have its benefits, according to Gail. “It provides us with the opportunity to have a break”, she says. Usually the couple work straight through April to October without having very much time off, so by having a group of people renting out the house for a week, for example, it allows Gail and Tony to take time off from their usual bed and breakfast duties. Of course there are still risks in opening up your home to strangers when using holiday rental sites, and there have been a number of horror stories about hosts returning to their properties in shock at what they have found. However, these are rare cases indeed. As Gail says: “There are risks as it is your own home, but the fact that

each guest receives a review hopefully ensures some degree of security.” Airbnb runs a tight review system, for both the hosts and guests, and if there are misrepresentations then accounts can be suspended. Stowford Manor Farm is also a wedding venue, with a marriage licence and large barn perfect for a couple looking for country themed nuptials. Gail and Tony’s property is perfect for those wishing to stay overnight near the wedding venue. To find out more about the property, visit: airbnb.co.uk/rooms/6081418. n

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COUNTRY RETREAT: Above, the exterior of Stowford Mill House

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FACE | THE MUSIC

THIS CITY CHANGED MY LIFE Georgette McCready talks to photographer, actor and frontof-house manager for many of Bath’s festivals, Alan Cassé

he next time you hand your ticket over at an event in Bath, or are shown to your seat in one of the city’s many venues, take a look at the person who’s helped you out. The chances are it may well be Alan Cassé, who has been a steward for the Bath Literature and Music Festivals for over a decade and for the Comedy Festival for the past four years. Distinctive for his range of quirky jackets and collection of hats, Alan is also a man who has played many parts. If you haven’t spotted Alan with his army of volunteers at the city’s festivals, making sure that audiences are settled and comfortable, you may have seen him on the touchlines of various sporting events in the Bath and Bristol area, taking photographs of the action for newspapers, or even in the photographers’ reserved space at the front of gigs, snapping away at the likes of Tina Turner, Pink Floyd and Fleetwood Mac. Or you may have seen him in a variety of costumes playing a role with Next Stage or Playing Up theatre companies. We begin Alan’s story in Rainham, Kent, where he spent the first half of his life. This Man of Kent, then working for Seeboard Electricity, spent the first half of his life in the south east. He – like so many before him – came to Bath, fell in love and now considers himself an adopted Bathonian, having spent the past 30 years here. Alan puts it eloquently and succinctly: “I was a football and lager guy. Bath has made me a rugby and real ale man. Actually, it’s given me an awful lot more than that. If I hadn’t come to Bath I might never have gone on stage and acted, I might never have learned to love theatre and classical music. This city changed my life.” Alan pays tribute to his late wife Bridget who introduced him to literature, theatre and classical music. Already a keen actress Bridget introduced Alan into acting and the camaraderie of staging productions. The pair performed with the Next Stage theatre company and led youth groups to award-winning standards in the Mid Somerset Music Festival. When Bridget tragically died Alan set up a memorial award in her name which is awarded annually to a member for excellence in youth theatre. Alan is a man who’s always kept himself busy. Even though he held down a full-time job he spent evenings and 24 TheBATHMagazine

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weekends as a freelance writer and photographer for The Bath Chronicle. He and a workmate, Tony Hobbs, set up a sports and showbiz photographic agency, Avon Press. Newspapers in the north of England paid the two photographers to attend matches in the south west and, literally hand over their films to the newspapers’ visiting reporters. One of the most memorable sporting fixtures Alan worked on was when the mighty Liverpool FC were drawn against Bristol Rovers in 1992. Rovers were using the Twerton ground as their home at the time and the bemused Liverpool fans arrived to find a football ground very different from Anfield.

Alan recalls that day:“I remember there being a real buzz, with crowds of around 10,000. There were all these Scousers queuing up outside the Twerton chippy. They just couldn’t get their heads round that Bath was such a rugby city. It was a very well behaved crowd.” Incidentally the home crowd that day was rewarded with a one-all draw against Liverpool. In his words Alan ‘blagged’ his way to be an official photographer for various gigs. “The photographers are let out front for literally the first three numbers, around ten minutes. The first gig I did was Tina Turner and I was just so in awe I kept looking up at her and forgot for a bit what I was there for. The other guys

ADOPTED BATHONIAN: Alan Cassé – his jacket is by Evil Uncle and is part of Alan’s collection

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took film after film, I only used one roll. Can you imagine? Well, I certainly learnt from that experience.” He was delighted to find himself close to one of his ultimate heroes, David Bowie on both his Glass Spider and Sound and Vision tours. He’s proud of the pictures he took which were published in magazines and newspapers. About 15 years ago Alan started volunteering as a steward for Bath Festivals. I asked him what rewards this role offered. “You get to see concerts or, in the case of the literature festival, talks for free. You get to see some events that maybe you wouldn’t have paid for but which turn out to be fascinating. And you’re part of a team, whether you’re selling programmes, manning exits or acting as an usher. Alan has now risen to the ranks of freelance front of house manager, one of several managers employed by Bath Festivals to co-ordinate volunteer stewards for each event. He has great affection for Bath Comedy Festival, running the front of house team as a volunteer and recruiting his own stewards: “They have to be resilient and prepared for anything.” Alan has supported Comedy Festival director Nick Steel for four years. “It’s a great festival, getting bigger and better every year. Nick and Ralph Oswick do a great job and it’s interesting to watch new talent come through and grow in confidence.” Having stewarded for 40 Comedy Festival events in just ten days, would Alan fancy having a go at stand-up? “I’d love to but I am too scared. I like acting, you’re part of a team and I know someone will come to my rescue if I freeze. I admire anyone who can get up and do stand-up enormously.” We’ll be able to see Alan in Playing Up’s production of Restoration comedy The Beaux Stratagem by George Farquhar at the Rondo theatre, Larkhall in November.

ALAN’S TOP TEN TRACKS: The Beatles – A Hard Day’s Night It was the 1960s and at the age of ten, growing up in the Medway towns, I was becoming aware of music. The Beatles were big for me and my peers so I had to chose one of theirs and this is a double A-side with Things We Said Today.

David Bowie – Space Oddity David Bowie is one of my musical heroes, ever since the days of Ziggy Stardust. I saw him perform and photographed him twice – at Cardiff Arms Park in 1987 on his Glass Spider tour and in 1990 on his Sound and Vision tour. Bowie made people feel they could do anything. Because as a boy I and my friends were totally into the moon landing of 1969, I had to choose this song of Bowie’s.

PRECIOUS MOMENTS: left to right, Alan’s photograph of Tina Turner in concert, centre he appeared on stage at the Minack open air theatre in Cornwall in a Next Stage production of The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and right, one of Alan’s pictures from a David Bowie concert Insert, his treasured ticket from 1986 when he saw Queen at Wembley Stadium – it was to be Freddie Mercury’s last British concert

Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody What a genius band, and Freddie Mercury was the best frontman. I was lucky to witness Freddie’s last British concert at Wembley. He came on into the spotlight and started playing the piano, opening this number and was gradually joined by the other band members. It was mesmerising and still sends shivers down my spine.

T Rex – Jeepster

Vivaldi – Four Seasons

Marc Bolan, the lead singer with T Rex, typified the glam rock era that I was immersed in. I had long hair, paisley shirts, platform boots and tank tops, all of which I remember with affection. The album Electric Warrior is one of my favourites.

Until the late 90s I knew virtually nothing about classical music. I am eternally grateful to my late wife Bridget who encouraged me to listen. We saw Red Priest give a performance of the Four Seasons in a theatrical way that was visually and audibly thrilling.

Simon and Garfunkel – Bridge Over Troubled Water

Mozart – Requiem

This was a total departure from the rock music of the early 70s era, but Simon and Garfunkel had a big effect on me, with their poetic, lyrical, orchestrated and harmonised music. Bridge Over Troubled Water is one of my top albums and I know every word of every song.

Dire Straits – Money for Nothing Moving on to the 80s, another influential band with a great frontman, Mark Knoppfler. Their music was clever and different and their album Brothers in Arms is a classic.

Michael Jackson – Billy Jean I had the good fortune to see him perform live at Wembley – what an exciting performer he was. Whenever I listen to that iconic album Thriller it takes me back to when I was a youth worker in Kent. The kids we were working with used to love to play this and danced to it all the time.

I love so much of his work but I’ve chosen this because it reminds me of a Next Stage production of Amadeus that we took to the open air Minack theatre on the cliffs in Cornwall. It was a very dramatic scene in which we all came solemnly on, wearing black cloaks and rolled the wrapped body of Mozart into a pauper’s grave – it looked as though he was being buried at sea. This music was being played at the time. It still gives me goosebumps when I play it now.

Van Morrison – Have I Told You Lately That I Love You? I have to admit that Van Morrison wasn’t on my radar for many years. But when I met Valerie, my partner, in 2011, she introduced me to his work. I was in charge of front of house when he played the Forum in Bath a couple of years ago. I’d like to choose this track, with its wonderful words, as a reminder to tell Valerie that I love her, every day. n THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

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WHAT’S ON in July EVENTS ARE LISTED IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER THE TEMPEST Monday 4 – Saturday 9 July n Lackham House near Lacock, Wiltshire Shakespeare Live presents outdoor theatre with a magical production of The Tempest, set in 16th century Corfu. Prospero’s magical island will be filled with music, strange spirits, evil plots and comedy. Tickets for the covered stand, from £10, visit: shakespearelive.com or tel: 07780 938107.

EDITOR’S PICK Joanna Eden’s tribite to Joni Mitchell at Chapel Arts

Dominic Cooper at The Theatre Royal

Phill Jupitus at the Theatre Royal

The Amadeus Orchestra at Wiltshire Music Centre

Bath Philharmonia invites the people of Bath to celebrate the life of Brian Roper with a concert at the Forum featuring The Planets and an out-of-this-world film show 26 TheBATHMagazine

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THE REMAINS OF TOM LEHRER Wednesday 20 July, 8pm n The Rondo theatre, St Saviour’s Road, Larkhall, Bath American satirical singer Tom Lehrer is best known for his acerbic lyrics and sayings –‘It is sobering to consider that when Mozart was my age he had already been dead for a year.’ If songs such as Poisoning Pigeons in the Park make you guﬀaw with laughter, while at the same time feeling you shouldn’t really find this funny, then Adam Kay’s stroll through the Lehrer songbook could be just the slightly depraved tonic you need. Tickets: £14 / £12 concessions. Visit: ticketsource.co.uk. JAZZ FACTORY SHOWCASE Monday 4 July, 8pm n Wiltshire Music Centre, Ashley Road, Bradford on Avon Jazz Factory – one of Wiltshire Music Centre’s longest running and most successful regular workshops – showcases the results of its dynamic weekly get-togethers in a pair of stellar concerts. An impressive blend of young jazz talent, eminent veterans and the finest of guest performers, these showcases represent bold contemporary jazz and the early jazz canon. Free, booking not required. Tel: 01225 860100 or visit: wiltshiremusic.org.uk. Also at the Wiltshire Music Centre this month THE AMADEUS ORCHESTRA Thursday 21 July, 7.30pm The Amadeus Orchestra is one of the world’s foremost training orchestras for young professionals. They will be joined by international cellist Raphael Wallfisch to perform Finzi’s Cello Concerto. Pianist Malcolm Forbes-Peckham will be the soloist in Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue under the direction of Philip Mackenzie who conducts Stravinsky’s ravishing score Petrouchka. Tickets: £25 (under 18s £10). PRESENT LAUGHTER Until Saturday 9 July, times vary n Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath The summer season at the Theatre Royal opens with Noël Coward’s sparkling comedy Present Laughter, directed by Stephen Unwin and starring Samuel West and Phyllis Logan. For ticket details visit: theatreroyal.org.uk, or tel: 01225 448844. Also at the Theatre Royal this month WHILE THE SUN SHINES Wednesday 13 – Saturday 30 July, times vary Terence Rattigan’s fast-paced farce was a big West End hit in the 1940s and this latest revival is directed by Christopher Luscombe, whose credits include The Madness of George III and Spamalot. Among the cast is Michael Cochrane, known for many roles not least for playing Oliver Sterling in The Archers. A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Wednesday 3 – Saturday 20 August, times vary We suspect that tickets for this production, starring comedian Phill Jupitus and directed by Olivier award winning director Laurence Boswell, will be snapped up like hot cakes. It promises to be a fittingly spectacular show to mark Shakespeare’s 400th anniversary. THE LIBERTINE Wednesday 31 August – Saturday 17 September, times vary We’re giving you the heads-up on this show, which stars the smouldering talents of Dominic Cooper playing the philandering 17th century Earl of Rochester, as we think tickets will be hot, hot, hot – not least as this is a

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West End preview. Written by awardwinning Stephen Jeffreys and directed by Tony award winner Terry Johnson this wild romp through London in the 1670s looks very promising indeed. MILES JUPP Sunday 18 September, 7.30pm Mild-mannered, middle class and a natural born worrier, Miles Jupp, pictured, brings his articulate musings on everything from regrets to astronauts on his Songs of Freedom tour. CHARLOTTE HOBSON Monday 4 July, 7.45pm for 8pm n Topping & Co bookshop, The Paragon, Bath The Vanishing Futurist is the debut novel by award-winning writer Charlotte Hobson. When 22-year-old Gerty Freely travels to Russia to work as a governess in early 1914, she has no idea of the vast political upheavals ahead, nor how her fate will be shaped by them. Charlotte Hobson’s first book about her time in Russia, Black Earth City, won a Somerset Maugham Award and was shortlisted for the Duff Cooper Prize and the Thomas Cook Travel Book Award. Also at Topping & Co this month JILL DAWSON ON PATRICIA HIGHSMITH Tuesday 5 July, 7.45pm The Crime Writer, the new novel from Jill Dawson, explores the mystery and intrigue in the life of Patricia Highsmith, the woman behind such creations as Carol and Mr Ripley. The story is set in 1964, and sees Highsmith in a cottage in Suffolk, to concentrate on her writing and escape her fans, as well as a stalker. She has another motive too – a romance with a married lover in London. This is a tour de force from the Orange Prize-shortlisted Dawson – a perfect portrait of Patricia Highsmith and a riveting tale of duplicity, madness and murder. Tickets: £6 / £7. ADRIAN TINNISWOOD Thursday 7 July, 7.45pm In The Long Weekend, Adrian Tinniswood uncovers the truth about English country houses between the wars. Drawing on hundreds of memoirs, unpublished letters and diaries and eye-witness testimonies of belted earls and unhappy heiresses and bullying butlers, This book gives a voice to the people who inhabited this world. Tickets: £6 / £7. PETER LOVESEY: CRIME WALK AROUND BATH Sunday 24 July, 10am Following the release of his new novel, Another One Goes Tonight, Peter Lovesey will be leading a walk around Bath, home of his creation, Peter Diamond. Lovesey’s knowledge of Bath’s history, especially its untold and darker tales, is extensive, matched only by his enthusiasm. Meet at the bookshop for a walk lasting approximately 90 minutes followed by coffee, tea and cake at the shop. Tickets: £10. MUNDY CRUISING AND SEABOURN LUNCHEON Wednesday 6 July, 12pm Bath Priory, Weston Road, Bath Leading luxury cruise retailer Mundy Cruising together with the luxury small ship cruise line Seabourn is returning to the Priory. Mundy Cruising has been providing first class service for 45 years. At this lunch there is the opportunity to learn more about Seabourn’s ultra-luxury hospitality, all-inclusive service and International Yacht Club ambience. Enjoy a reception, followed by a presentation from Seabourn about the 2016 and 2017 programme. This will be followed by lunch, providing ample time to discuss holiday needs. Tickets: £40, includes a glass of Prosecco and canapés, a Michelin star three course lunch with a glass of wine, coffee and petits fours. To book, tel: 01225 331922. SPECIALIST VALUATION DAY Thursday 7 July, 10am – 2pm n The Lansdown Grove Hotel, Lansdown Road, Bath A team of specialists from Lockdales will be on hand to offer free valuations on a range of items from stamp and coin collections to books, maps and medals. No appointment necessary. THE BARBER OF SEVILLE Thursday 7 July, gates open 5.30pm, opera begins at 7pm n The grounds of Prior Park College, Bath Continued page 28 THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

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Professional Garden Opera Company presents Rossini’s humorous masterpiece The Barber of Seville, sung in English. This is a delightful way to spend an evening, picnicing in the grounds of Prior Park College before enjoying an alfresco production. All profits go to Julian House charity which works in the Bath area for vulnerable people. Tickets: £38 (under 16s £20) from Bath Box Office, tel: 01225 463362 or email: cathya@julianhouse.org.uk. CONCERT FOR THE PEOPLE OF BATH Friday 8 July, 7.30pm n The Forum, Southgate, Bath Bath Philharmonia, the city’s professional orchestra, is one of many bodies in Bath to have received support from the late philanthropist and businessman Brian Roper. This concert offers us all the chance to say thank you for all the support that he and his family have given over many years. International pianist Stephen Hough is joining Bath Philharmonia and there’ll be special film footage from space on a big screen as the orchestra plays Holst’s The Planets. Also on the programme for this one-off concert is Rachmaninov’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. Tickets from £20 (under 16s £5) from Bath Box Office, tel: 01225 463362. BENEDICTINE BATH FESTIVAL Friday 8 – Monday 18 July n Various venues, including Bath Abbey and St John’s Hospital, Bath Discover over 1,000 years of Benedictine history and heritage in the city. Rare books and manuscripts go on show, while the Mayor of Bath’s Tourist Guides will be offering daily walking tours. There’ll be a series of church services and a fun family friendly event, offering the chance to find about what people ate in medieval Bath. Most events are free, but booking for some is essential. There is a charge for the Twilight Tours of Bath Abbey (£5) and a £10 charge for the tour of Downside but it includes lunch. For full programme details visit: downside.co.uk. CHARITY CONCERTS Saturday 9 July 7.30pm and Sunday 10 July, 4pm n St Michael’s Church, Broad Street, Bath Bath based Chamber choir, Capella Nova, will perform Magnificat, a celebration of 500 years of English church music on 9 July, conducted by Tony Shield with music by Purcell, Tallis and Byrd. Tickets: £12 from Bath Box Office or on the door. Visit: cappellanova.org.uk. Proceeds in aid of the Genesis Trust charity which works with vulnerable people. The 40 strong Festival Chorale Oregon are putting on a free concert on 10 July at St. Michael’s with a retiring collection for the Genesis Trust. Now on a European tour the choir is led by music director Dr Solveig Holmquist. Visit: festivalchorale.org. KING PORTER STOMP Saturday 9 July, 8pm n Chapel Arts Centre, Lower Borough Walls, Bath Expect an all encompassing live show, complete with afro funk horn lines, dub reggae rhythms, harmonious hooks and conscious rhymes. This Brighton based outfit has been acclaimed by the Independent as ‘energising – a blast.’ Tickets: £10 (£12 on the door).Visit: chapelarts.org or tel: 01225 461700. Also at Chapel Arts this month JOANNA EDEN’S JONI AND ME SHOW Friday 22 July, 8pm Joanna Eden could read music before she could write. As a huge fan of Joni Mitchell this is a celebration of her heroine’s work. Joanna, who has supported Jamie Cullum, Ronan Keating and the Buena Vista Social Club, will be joined by pianist Chris Ingham and bass guitarist Lewis Andrews. Tickets: £12 (£14 on the door). HATTIE BRIGGS BAND Saturday 23 July, 8pm This Stroud based singer-songwriter appeared at Cambridge Folk Festival and Cheltenham Jazz Festival last year, which led to an appearance as featured artist on Sky Arts TV. Her music crosses genres including pop, folk, soul and blues. Tickets: £12 (£14 on the door). 28 TheBATHMagazine

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WHAT’S WHAT’S || ON ON MADAME BUTTERFLY Friday 8 and Saturday 9 July, 7.30pm n The Rondo theatre, St Saviour’s Road, Larkhall, Bath Bath Opera company presents Puccini’s classic and emotionally heartrending tale of the Japanese girl who gave up all for love. This production is being sung in English, making it more accessible. Tickets: £14, £12 concessions. Tel: 0333 666 3366.

The Lord Chamberlain’s Men coming to Dyrham in August

English Civil War re-enactment in Bradford on Avon

CREATIVE WORKSHOPS Saturday 9 July (ceramics) and Saturday 16 July (screenprinting), both 10am – 1pm n Verve Living shop, London Road, Bath Classes in all sorts of hands-on activities are on offer, run by the artists and designer makers whose work is showcased in the shop. On 9 July, it’s contemporary ceramics with local ceramicist Hans Borgonjon and on 16 Julit’s an introduction to screen printing with acclaimed printmaker Sarah Targett. A maximum of six people per class. From £45 to £50 for a three hour session, including materials and refreshments. Visit: verveliving.uk/classes.

EDITOR’S PICK THE BATTLE OF BRADFORD ON AVON Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 July, 10am – 5pm n The town bridge, Tithe Barn and Barton Farm Country Park Two armies comprising more than 400 people will descend on the Wiltshire town over the weekend to recreate English Civil War battles from July 1643. Re-enactors will set up authentic encampments in the town and there’ll be the chance to learn about life in the 17th century, meet participants and watch some loud and lively skirmishes. See the King’s army clash with the Roundheads in a unique slice of living history. Elf Lyons at the Ring O Bells

Raise the roof for the Queen at St Mary’s Bathwick on Saturday 16 July

THE BATH BIG SING Sunday 10 July, 3pm n Royal Victoria Park, below the Royal Crescent, Bath More than 1,000 singers from some 30 choirs across the west country have been sponsored to learn the same set of inspiring songs. They’ll be singing together in front the Royal Cresecent and hope to raise over £60,000 to help some of the poorest people in Ethiopia gain access to clean water and sanitation. Support them by listening, take a chair, a picnic (no barbecues please) and enjoy this al fresco concert. SUDDENLY LAST SUMMER Tuesday 12 – Saturday 16 July 8pm n The Mission theatre, Corn Street, Bath Next Stage company presents Tennessee Williams’ claustrophobic tale of a troubled daughter who witnessed her cousin’s death under mysterious circumstances. Tickets: £12/ £10 concessions. Tel: 01225 428600. Also at the Mission theatre this month NOT ABOUT HEROES Monday 18 – Wednesday 20 July, 7.30pm A century on from the Battle of the Somme, playwright Stephen MacDonald is inspired by original letters and poems to recreate the friendship between Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon. Threedumb Theatre brings this drama to Bath as part of a national tour. Tickets: £11/ £9 concessions. GULLIVER’S TRAVELS Thursday 21 – Friday 22 July, 7.30pm A new adventurous adaptation of Jonathan Swift’s strange tales of Lemuel Gulliver, suitable for children and adults. Tickets: £13/ £8 concessions.

Inspired by Sassoon at The Mission Theatre

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Hattie Briggs at Chapel Arts

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THE BRISTOL BOOKFAIR Friday 15, 1pm – 7pm, and Saturday 16 July, 10am – 4.30pm n The Passenger Shed by Bristol Temple Meads Station, Bristol The Bristol Book Fair returns to The Passenger Shed for its second year, bringing together dealers from all over the UK. Whether you are a keen reader looking to expand your collection, or a seasoned collector looking for one elusive title to complete your library, the fair is worth a visit. Highlights include a unique copy of Treasure Island, bound in the bindery of George Bayntun of Bath. Free entry with a ticket downloaded from the website: bristolbookfair.com, or £2 on the door. Hot and cold food and drinks, cakes, snacks, and a licensed bar. Continued Page 32

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WHAT’S | ON BRADFORD ON AVON MINI BOOK FESTIVAL Friday 15 and Saturday 16 July n Bradford on Avon public library On Friday from 4.30pm, children can register for the Summer Reading Challenge and make fantastic flying things. From 7.15pm there is a Book Tasting event, for anyone interested in reading or writing books for young people to meet the festival authors and illustrators. The weekend line-up includes special guests John McLay, artistic director of Bath Children’s Literature Festival and illustrator, Martin Brown, pictured, to introduce their stories about Harry and his horse, Oats, including the latest The Night-time Knight. There’s a knightly fancy dress competition and a prize of an original illustration. There are lots more events besides, all free but places must be reserved. Visit: boambf.wordpress.com. Call the library: 01225 863280 to reserve free tickets. MUSIC FOR ROYAL OCCASIONS Saturday 16 July, workshops from 2pm, concert at 5pm n St Mary’s Church, Bathwick What a lovely way to celebrate Her Majesty’s 90th birthday, with dozens of voices raised in song. Join the church choir from 2pm for a singing workhop, followed by convivial tea at 5pm then a public concert featuring favourite pieces such as Zadok the Priest. To join the workshop (£5 per place) call: 01225 447450 or email: office@bathwickparishes.org.uk. BLACKOUT Thursday 21 – Saturday 23 July 8pm n Ustinov Studio, Sawclose, Bath This is a theatrical experience like no other. The audience will enter a darkened auditorium before putting on blindfolds and listen as three stories unfold. Sounds will include the human voice, music and sound effects. The unseen artists include recent participants of an acting for radio course at the Ustinov. Tickets: £10 / £7 concessions, tel: 01225 448844. Coming up at the Ustinov HUG Thursday 8 – Saturday 10 September, 7pm, 8pm, 9pm Another immersive experience is offered, as blindfolded audience members are serenaded by a choir of singers who also hug them. Tickets: £5 / £4 concessions. BATH COMEDY FESTIVAL PRE-EDINBURGH NIGHTS Wednesday 27 July, 7pm n Ring o Bells, Widcombe Tamar has become nervous about leaving the house. She is convinced there must be more to life than dodging hipsters, envying gym girls and keeping body hair under control. Following the success of All By My Selfie, comedy-songwriter Tamar returns with Get Ugly. Pay £5, or what you feel. Also at the Ring O Bells Wednesday 27 July, 8.30pm Elf Lyons uses a blend of storytelling, surrealism and brutal honesty in Pelican to pull apart her love/hate relationship with her mother, to explore the fear of turning into your mother, and the pressures to have it all as a young woman. £5, or pay what you feel. Thursday 28 July, 8.30pm Neil McFarlane: Sightseeing With A Hangover. Neil has visited a number of strange and foreign cities to do stand-up. Along the way he’s picked up stories, met interesting people and seen some sights, usually an hour before his flight leaves. £5, or pay what you feel. PLANNING AHEAD . . . MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING Friday 5 and Saturday 6 August, 6.30pm n National Trust Dyrham Park, on the A46 north of Bath The Lord Chamberlain’s Men, a fine theatre company, mark the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, with an all-male production of his battle of the sexes comedy. The cast dress in Elizabethan costume and perform in the open air, giving an exciting and authentic air to the experience. Tickets can be booked via: nationaltrust.org.uk. n 32 TheBATHMagazine

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Valley Fest, which takes place at Chew Valley 2 – 4 September

SUMMER OF FESTIVALS

t’s a cracking summer for festival fun, kicking off with the Frome Festival, which runs from 1 – 10 July, and offers a wonderful mixed bag of cultural events for all ages, from playful and creative workshops to mighty organ recitals and gigs from some international names. This year the Somerset town plays host to one of pop’s finest bassists, Bruce Hoxton, who’s headlining with From the Jam: the Public Gets What the Public Wants, at the Cheese and Grain on Friday 8 July, and to the mighty Pee Wee Ellis and his band, who’ll be blowing the roof off the Merlin Theatre on Sunday 10 July. There’ll be the chance to take your ukulele to the Cheese and Grain for a ukulele workshop for all abilities on Monday 4 July, while Viv Groskop, known to Bathonians as the outgoing artistic director of the Bath Literature Festival, hones her stand-up skills before her appearance at the Edinburgh Festival with her Good Life-homage Be More Margo, on Thursday 7 July. There are guided walks, talks about a variety of topics, art and history exhibitions and more, to be found at: fromefestival.co.uk. Over in Wiltshire another festival is growing annually as more families and campers discover the pleasures to be found on Jamie’s Farm. The charity, based just outside Box, holds its annual Cock and Bull Festival to help raise funds to host troubled inner-city teenagers, which is at the core of its work. This year’s festival – with a capacity of just 500 people – takes place over the weekend of Friday 22 to Sunday 24 July. Its delights include a kids talent show and the chance for under 11s to spend time dreaming up their own utopia. There’s camping, cider and music, with top acts including festival circuit favourite, singer-songwriter Beans on Toast. On the Wiltshire/Dorset borders is the much bigger but no less family friendly Larmer Tree Festival, which runs from Wednesday 13 to Sunday 17 July. Bath’s own jazz star Jamie Cullum headlines on the opening night, supported by another homegrown singer-songwriter Gabrielle Aplin. Also appearing over the Larmer weekend are the Stranglers, Tom Odell, Caro Emerald and punk poet John Cooper Clarke. The festival has an award for the best festival toilets. Just a 15 minute train ride from Bath is the Bristol Harbour Festival which takes place over the weekend of Friday 15 to Sunday 17 July. The festival spills out across the city centre as thousands flock to attend and enjoy live music, markets and entertainment. On Friday 15 July there’s a concert by Echo and the Bunnymen and former Haircut 100 frontman Nick Heywood, for which you’ll need to buy tickets. The Iford Arts summer season of opera in the cloisters set in beautiful Italianate gardens near Bradford on Avon has got under way and most of the performances have sold out. At the time of writing there were just a few for Mozart’s The Magic Flute on Friday 7 and Saturday 8 July. If you can get tickets (they start at £118) this is a magical evening, beginning with picnics on the lawns and followed by an intimate performance experience. Looking ahead, the annual Bristol Balloon Fiesta weekend takes place from Thursday 11 to Sunday 14 August, promising spectacular sights as hot air balloons fill the skies over Bristol. There’ll be fun down on the farm at Valley Fest at Chew Valley, where festival-goers will be able to enjoy live music from acts including Emily Portman, Craig Charles and The Blockheads over the weekend of Friday 2 to Sunday 4 September. Finally, tickets are on sale for the Upton Cheyney Chilli Festival, which takes place over the weekend of 3 and 4 September. There’ll be much merriment, music and, naturally, a chilli eating contest. n

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Piano for sale

Beautiful handcrafted Blüthner piano for sale

Manufactured in 1973. Has been tuned regularly. Selling for £4,500.

Contact Mrs Sally Eustace for more details. Tel: 01225 833751

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

Edward Leigh-Wood

Founder of Swainwick Explorers

came to Bath in August 2000 with my wife Rachel and our young boys, returning to her family home in Upper Swainswick, which is blessed with a large, beautiful garden which became our family playground. I had left a career in teaching in London and continued to teach supply, but I found I really enjoyed looking after my boys while Rachel worked part time in London. Memories of my younger days ensured we spent lots of time outdoors, especially on a bike and trailer. I grew up with a wonderful communal garden through my garden gate in London in the 1970s, together with grandmothers in Kent and Hampshire where I had a very happy childhood, playing with cousins, climbing trees, discovering the hay stacks, the smell of straw bales and Cheddar sandwiches while sitting in long grass. In London, there were friends . . . you just went into their gardens to find them. Later on I spent hours exploring the city on my bike. (Rachel turned up to our second date on a bike, I was sold from then on). I loved sailing my small boat at Bembridge on the Isle of Wight, enjoying the freedom, the open sea, wind and the possibilities of sailing away around the island. I once took a boat and rowed out to collect my Dad who had finished his race (I was seven at the time). Freedom for children to explore, unfettered, unadulterated, is really important. It is fairly impossible in our society unless you live on a small private island or up a happy cul-de-sac. For us, a catalyst for change came in 2002 when our third son was born. Rachel gave up her job and we had a time of thinking what to do next. Friends had commented on our patience and novel parenting style and suggested we looked after their children too. In combination with looking after our young boys, we started to develop what we called Swainswick Explorers. We registered as childminders and qualified as playworkers. Our way was to offer children fun opportunities, risk, adventure, clear boundaries, time outside and to model caring and helpful behaviour. Trying different types of trips during the holidays we soon realised that the simplest was the best. A journey into the countryside, in a small group, with no agenda other than to have fun and enough time and provisions was a perfect recipe for a memorable adventure. A memory seed planted. Now 16 years later Rachel and I have a great team of creative people and Garden-Swainswick has become a DIY paradise of children’s play. We can’t stop developing new opportunities for children, teenagers and adults to explore, play and learn. We now have three teenage boys, integral to the origins of Explorers. They, and others in their cohort, who grew up exploring with us, are now leading young people themselves as part of our Outdoor Adventures programme for 11 – 15 year olds. To adventure further afield, we are developing a couple of holidays for young people, biking in Germany and a trekking experience in Greece for next year. This summer our boys are returning to a school in Uganda where they will be volunteering, decorating a new dormitory for which they’ve fundraised since their first visit. They are like ‘arrows in my quiver’, quoting from Proverbs in the Bible. We love our work and have a great group of loyal parents and families who support us and entrust us with their children. I particularly enjoy building relationships, seeing people grow and making structures for the garden, the latest of these being a climbing gym and a hot bath. Look at our website for more information about outdoor play, our preschool, after school and holiday clubs, retreats for adults and craft bonanzas. Our next open day is in October. We love to learn, to learn to love! n Swainswick Explorers, visit: playingoutdoors.org.

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

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ART | EXHIBITIONS

CITY’S CULTURAL LEGACY Take your pick from more than a dozen exhibitions taking place in Bath’s galleries during July VICTORIA ART GALLERY By Pulteney Bridge Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm, Sunday, 1.30pm – 5pm, closed Monday

GARDEN SCULPTURE The garden of 165 Newbridge Hill, Bath SCULPTURE TO ENHANCE A GARDEN Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 July, 11am – 5pm Three local sculptors showcase their sculpture. Wander round the garden at leisure and enjoy tea and homemade cake or scones and cream on the terrace. Entrance £3. Proceeds from the refreshments to The Peggy Dodd Centre in Bath, which cares for those suffering from memory loss. Visit: thehiddengardensofbath.co.uk or contact: helen@thehiddengardensofbath.co.uk.

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

Lion on a Rock from the Schorr collection HOLBURNE MUSEUM Great Pulteney Street, Bath Tel: 01225 388569 Open: Daily, 10am – 5pm (11am Sundays) STUBBS AND THE WILD Until 2 October George Stubbs is perhaps best known for his paintings of horses, people and dogs, but this exhibition explores his fascination with wild animals. Stubbs (1724 – 1806) reflected the interest at the time for animals from farflung corners of the world. Many exotic animals were arriving in the country for private collections and Stubbs was invited to study and paint them. This exhibition is part of the 100th anniversary events at the Holburne, and while entry to the main galleries is free, there is a charge to see the Stubbs works. Admission is £10. There’s a two for one ticket deal on Tuesdays.

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Red Anemones and a Cup by Lynn Cartlidge DAVID SIMON CONTEMPORARY 3 – 4 Bartlett Street, Bath Tel: 01225 460189 Visit: davidsimoncontemporary.com Open: Mon – Sat, 10am – 6pm, Sunday afternoons IN SEARCH OF CORNISH LIGHT Friday 1 – Saturday 30 July This exhibition by four painters who have all, at some point of their career, migrated to Cornwall captures the essence of light and effect of coastal atmosphere that continues to inspire so many artists. The four are; Lynne Cartlidge, Julia Cooper, Myles Oxenford and Michael Rees. There will also be ceramics by Emily Kriste Wilcox, returning asa professional artist to the city where she graduated with first class honours from Bath Spa University.

Avebury 1 (detail) by Ian Scott Massie BLUESTONE GALLERY Old Swan Yard, Devizes, Wiltshire Open 10am – 5pm, Monday to Saturday

PLACES OF PILGRIMAGE BY IAN SCOTT MASSIE Saturday 16 – Saturday 30 July This is the fourth showing of a touring exhibition by Yorkshire artist Ian Scott Massie about special places people visit for artistic, spiritual or other reasons. Ian has spent the last two years travelling Britain portraying and writing about places as diverse as Dylan Thomas’ boathouse, King Arthur’s castle at Tintagel, and Avebury. Ian has created new work of the Devizes area for this exhibition. A beautiful book including Ian’s writing and pictures has been published for the exhibition.

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nick cudworth gallery

Let’s Go - Oil on Linen and Signed Giclee Print

SUMMER SHOW 1 July – 31 August A wide variety of paintings and prints by Nick that represent his interests and inspirations including landscapes and music.

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

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ART | EXHIBITIONS

TOURING EXHIBITION FOR DOROTHY HOUSE Dorothy House Hospice, Winsley Visit the Dorothy House Facebook page, DottyHouse or the website: dorothyhouse.org.uk for venues and dates 40TH BIRTHDAY SHOW Throughout July Dorothy House Hospice Care has an exhibition and film to mark the hospice’s 40th birthday. Princess Anne, the Princess Royal opened the exhibition during her visit to Dorothy House in Winsley – although this picture, which is part of the exhibition, shows her in 2012. The exhibition features photographs from the history of Dorothy House and celebrates the pioneering care, education programmes and fundraising work of the hospice today. The touring exhibition will be open to the public and will be visiting 15 locations across Somerset and Wiltshire staying for two to three days at each place.

Wast Water by Nick Cudworth NICK CUDWORTH GALLERY London St, top of Walcot Street, Bath. Closed on Mondays Tel: 01225 445221 Visit: nickcudworth.com SUMMER SHOW Friday 1 July – end of August The July exhibition by Nick Cudworth is called Summer Show. It covers a wide variety of paintings and prints of originals which reflect Nick’s interests and inspirations. It includes a signed giclee print of Wast Water in the Lake District. Other landscapes on view cover Bath city and the surrounding countryside, also the Cotswolds. A selection of Nick’s musical heroes are represented with images of Chuck Berry, Mahler, Eric Satie and Elmore James. THE MUSEUM OF EAST ASIAN ART 12 Bennett Street, Bath Visit: meaa.org.uk Open: Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday noon – 5pm

18th century red lacquer peach-shaped box Prehistory by Ruth Piper LANE HOUSE ARTS 5 Nelson Place East, Bath BA1 5DA Tel: 07767 498403 Visit: lanehousearts.co.uk LAND OF PLENTY Until 30 July New paintings by Ruth Piper. Central to these paintings is the notion of transition and transformation that link to a strong sense of place both physical and psychological. The title Land of Plenty was inspired by the complexities of an existential nostalgia for the tranquility and simplicity of another world. Because the conditions of true happiness and contentment are fugitive and fleeting and depend on a consciously edited viewpoint of reality we are compelled to live life on the edge, forever in the gap between the surface and the underworld and the superficiality of first encounters with only a vague sense of what lies beneath.

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RED: CULTURE, HISTORY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP Throughout July The museum has re-opened after extensive refurbishment, its delicate permanent collection having been given a fresh display layout. This show explores the potency of the colour red in Chinese art.

GALLERY NINE 9b Margarets Buildings, Bath Tel: 01225 319197 Visit: gallerynine.co.uk Open: Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5.30pm SUMMER EXHIBITION Friday 1 July – Wednesday 31 August The summer exhibition features British artists whose work has been influenced by their immediate surroundings. Christian Ryan, who is based in Wales, makes glass pieces that combine his love of painting, graphics, craft and architecture. Anna Lambert has developed her hand-built forms to reflect a connection with her locality in West Yorkshire and to the fragile, constantly changing environment. Robert Race’s kinetic sculptures and automata are found in many collections including the Museum of Childhood, the V&A and the Arts Council Craft Collection. Featured jewellers are Tanja Ufer and Samuel Waterhouse. Tanja won a setting up grant from the British Crafts Council, which enabled her to establish her

Fragments by Christian Ryan studio in Brighton. Samuel is a self taught jeweller from Northumberland who creates contemporary jewellery with original inspiration from antiquity. The exhibition also features linoprints by Paul Cleden and Andrew Pavitt.

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ART | EXHIBITIONS 44AD ART SPACE 4 Abbey Street, Bath Open 12pm – 6pm (Sunday 1pm – 4pm)

UNCONFORMITIES 44AD Art Space, 4 Abbey Street, Bath, open noon – 6pm, Sunday, 1pm – 4pm Bath artist Susan Griffith-Jones graduated from Bath Spa University in 2011 in a career change, having worked at the University of Bath for more than 30 years. She produces large oil paintings inspired by Scotland and the Bahamas, where she grew up, Italy and France, which she visits regularly, reflecting how colour can evoke memories of places. She has also been making smaller, more free flowing and spontaneous, acrylic works on paper that are to do with the interaction of colours, though also with their roots in landscape. Her work has found homes in London, Oxford, Cambridge, Italy and the USA.

TULIP: CHARITY ART SALE AND AT THE CROSSROADS From noon Friday 8 – Sunday 10 July There are two exhibitions at 44AD to raise funds for Dorothy House. For Tulip artists and celebrities drew or painted pictures of tulips for the show. Gallery owner Katie O’Brien has been busy collecting contributions from visiting and local celebs, who include top British designer Paul Smith. She bumped into Julian Barratt, (aka Howard Moon from The Mighty Boosh), pictured with his tulip, and his partner comedy actress Julia Davis and they both donated a tulip. At the Crossroads is an exhibition by local artist Brian Rusher. A couple of years ago Brian Rush came to something of a crossroads in his life and gave much of his artwork to Dorothy House. This exhibition comprises

mixed media creations mainly in acrylics, pastels and collage. Some key pieces will carry a reserve, but the majority of the pieces will sell for what the buyer feels it is worth. ONE TWO FIVE GALLERY 4 Abbey Green, Bath Open: Wednesday – Sunday, 11am – 5pm, or by appointment. Email: carole@carolewaller.co.uk Tel: 07803 033 629

EMMA ROSE Upstairs at 78 Walcot Street, Bath Mon – Sat, 10am – 5pm Tel: 07885235915 / 01225 424 424 Visit: emmaroseartworks.com FRESHFORD FANCY Until 23 July Emma Rose shows a collection of original art, limited edition prints and canvas prints at The Galleries in Freshford. A sense of whimsy and wonderment suffuse the beautiful studies of landscapes, local and imagined. ART AT THE HEART OF THE RUH Main corridor gallery, Royal United Hospital, Bath Open: Monday to Sunday, 8am – 8pm daily BATH SCHOOLS EXHIBITION Thursday 8 July – 13 October Art and photography by students at Beechen Cliff and Ralph Allen schools who have worked together as part of the Bath Educational Trust. Also on show is an exhibition by Bath Artists’ Studio, to mark the studios’ 20th anniversary.

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Textiles from Stitch by Stitch

STITCH BY STITCH Thursday 7 – 31 July These beautiful contemporary handmade textiles from India and Nepal are the brainchild and design of Graham Hollick. Stitch by Stitch is a London textile design company, working with small groups of artisans in the remote Kutch region of Gujarat, India, and Nepal. Its collection of contemporary interior textiles is inspired by many trips to these areas. Stitch by Stitch reinterprets traditional embroidery and quilt-making skills, and commissions hand woven wools and Kala cotton fabrics from weavers, spinners and cotton growers in Kutch. A fresh, modern collection of cushions, rugs, blankets and quilts is the result, all made with fair trade principles.

BATH CONTEMPORARY 35 Gay Street, Bath Email: gallery@bathcontemporary.com Visit: bathcontemporary.com Tel: 01225 461230 Open: 10am – 5pm, Mon – Sat IAN EDWARDS Monday 4 – Saturday 16 July Presenting figurative sculpture of dramatic strength and movement, expressing the determination of human endeavour, alongside Edwards’ beautifully powerful new wildlife studies. DEREK BALMER Road to Cordoba by Derek Balmer Monday 18 – Saturday 30 July In celebration of colour and the exuberant character of the Mediterranean, the gallery presents vibrant new works from Derek Balmer PPRWA. This highly respected artist will also be delivering an evening talk on his career on Thursday 21 July. Please call the gallery to secure a seat, booking essential.

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LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU

Historian Catherine Pitt takes us back in time to the heyday of Bath’s Masters of Ceremonies

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Mr Plomer was dragged out of the Assembly Room by his nose, while it was said that the ‘women were more violent than the men’

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magine yourself arriving in Bath 250 years ago, being greeted by the peal of the Bath Abbey bells. At your lodgings you would have been visited by a fine dressed gentleman in a large white fur hat who, upon his assessment of you would lighten your pockets of a ‘subscription fee.’ This fee not only paid for the bells that had greeted you but allowed you to visit the balls, gambling rooms, gardens and libraries; as well as drink and bathe in the waters of the city. The following day you would head to the Pump Room and there you would enter your name into a vast public register confirming your presence, and your payment. Your entry into the Bath Season had begun . . . That fine dressed gentleman who welcomed you to Bath was known as the Master of Ceremonies (MC). His job was to be a jack of all trades – organiser, matchmaker, trend-setter, diplomat, and even enforcer. Bath in the 17th century was a small town with a growing reputation for the curative properties of its mineral waters. As visitor numbers grew, so did the demand for entertainment. A bowling green was sited near what is now known as Orange Grove, and was used for country dances. However this was of little use in inclement weather. It wasn’t until the late 17th century that the Duke of Beaufort, visiting the city, took it upon himself to organise small dances for his friends at the Guildhall, but these affairs were very exclusive. By the 1700s it appears that the organisation of public entertainment in Bath had become the unofficial role of a man called Captain Webster. The entertainment Webster provided was limited but consisted of a series of balls at the Guildhall for half a guinea a head, plus gaming facilities. Webster made his money through the ball entry fees and from the gaming tables; however gambling was to be his downfall, and he was killed in a duel caused by rivalry at the tables. It was to Webster’s Bath that Beau – real name Richard – Nash made his first visit to the city, hot-footing it from London after an unsuccessful spell in the army. He made friends with Webster and became his unofficial deputy. On Webster’s death in 1704, Nash slipped easily into the gap that Webster had left. With his knowledge of those visiting the city, the acquaintances he had made in London, and his natural charm, Nash was soon to make himself indispensable. He even created a distinctive look of brightly coloured clothes, sash, badge of office and a white fur hat so that he was easily identifiable in crowds. Legend has it that Nash gained public favour after diffusing a threat made to the city of Bath by Dr Radcliffe, physician to Prince George of Denmark. The doctor had threatened to poison the springs with a toad, but Nash calmed the people’s fears claiming he could neutralise the

toad’s poison with music and set about raising money for an orchestra to play at the baths. This was so popular that new visitors flocked to the city.

As Bath’s first officially recorded Master of Ceremonies, Nash set about creating more entertainment for visitors. Nash persuaded Thomas Harrison to build a room for dancing to the east of The Grove, which would specifically be used for public entertainment (Lower Rooms, 1708 – 1820). He cleaned up the streets, improved the roads and lighting, set a regular tariff for lodgings, created the first Pump Room to enable shelter for the drinkers, and proposed a set of Bath Rules which visitors would adhere to, including sections on dress and behaviour. To fund the entertainment provided, Nash proposed visitors would pay subscriptions, collected by people known as Touters and which were recorded in a ledger on public display in the Pump Room.

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BATH | ARCHIVE

London was where the rigours of society and social standing were to be observed, but in Bath it was more relaxed. Within his Rules Nash included a section on not excluding or insulting anyone of a differing status to one’s own, allowing merchants’ sons and daughters to rub shoulders with lords and ladies. Bath’s company in the 18th century was made up of “people of every degree, condition and occupation of life, if well dressed and well behaved.” Nash made it his duty to know all who came to the city to partake in the pleasures he provided. He would personally visit everyone who arrived, which meant that Nash could seamlessly introduce people to each other, as well as play matchmaker. His reign lasted for 57 years as the undisputed King of Bath, yet Bath was not the only place to have a MC, although it was the first in England to do so. Other spa towns followed suit, and Nash held his position in Bath concurrently with the role of MC in Tunbridge Wells in Kent. The differing social seasons between resorts often allowed the MCs such flexibility to have dual positions. Nash’s role had been self-appointed and self-funded (as Webster’s had been) from the gambling tables. Future MCs of Bath were never to have such freedom. After Nash’s death in 1761 people began to question how he had survived with no visible income. On finding out that money was skimmed from the subscriptions and gambling, subscription holders decided that if the position of MC was to remain it was to be controlled, with a salary taken from the money raised from the benefit balls and the actual job of MC granted via election by the subscribers. Gentlemen who had previously served in the army were preferred as it was believed they had the authority to control the crowds.

HOST WITH THE MOST: main picture, Master of Ceremonies Captain Wade, known as the Bath Adonis, painted by Thomas Gainsborough, which hangs in the Assembly Rooms Above, the Assembly Rooms where merchants’ sons and daughters were able to rub shoulders with lords and ladies Top right, Bath’s most successful Master of Ceremonies Beau Nash, painted by William Hoare

By the late 18th century Bath was so fashionable a city and popular that a new Assembly Room, known as the Upper Rooms (1771), was built, near John Wood’s brand new Circus and Royal Crescent. With these competing privately owned rooms it soon made sense to appoint a MC to oversee each building. The position of MC of the Lower Rooms more than often led to election of the Upper Rooms after tenure, as can be seen with James King, Richard Tyson and James Heaviside. Among the MCs succeeding Nash was Irish author, Samuel Derrick in 1764. Although he based his look on Nash, donning the familiar white fur hat, and giving William Herschel a place in the Pump Room band, Derrick did not live up to his predecessor’s reputation. “Matters went from bad to worse, until at last, when a certain party was given, a woman of fashion was omitted, because Mr Derrick had forgotten her existence” (Edith Sitwell). After Derrick’s reign ended in 1769 there was a much fought contest for the position, between Major Brereton, Derrick’s Deputy, and Mr Plomer, MC in Bristol. The competition became so fraught that a violent fight ensued and the Riot Act had to be read three times to the crowds. Mr Plomer was dragged out of the Assembly Room by his nose, while it was said that “the women were more violent than the men.” In the end a Captain William Wade was elected on consensus as a suitable compromise. Captain Wade, otherwise known as the Bath Adonis, was forced to retire from his position after living up to his nickname. He was named in the divorce proceedings of Elizabeth Eustasia Campbell, wife of John Hooke Campbell. Wade may have lost the role of MC in Bath; however he did go on to marry Elizabeth and continued as MC in Brighton, a position he had held during his Bath tenure. By the turn of the 19th century

seaside resorts such as Brighton, were growing in popularity, and spa towns such as Bath were losing their appeal. As the number of visitors dwindled, consequently so did the subscriptions and entertainment, and thus the need for a MC. By 1805 the Lower Rooms had become unfashionable and poor attendance made sustaining two MCs financially impossible. In 1820 the Lower Rooms burnt down and all entertainment transferred to the Upper Rooms. Recreation was also no longer as public as it once had been. People now preferred to entertain their friends and visitors in the comfort of their own homes or lodgings. The exclusivity of society that had been so abhorrent to Nash had reared its head again by the mid-19th century. There was little room now for the public displays of frivolity and the mixing of social classes that once had been. The role of MC continued in a much reduced capacity through the 19th century in Bath. In 1902 the role was taken up for the last time by former thrice Mayor of Bath, Major Charles Simpson until his death, and the start of the First World War, in 1914. After that, the mantle was never taken up again, although James King MC has been immortalised in Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey and in Charles Dickens’ The Pickwick Papers where Dickens writes of the fictitious MC, Angelo Cyrus Bantum Esquire. It has been argued that Nash singlehandedly increased the popularity, size and fortunes of the city with his reorganisation and control of society and entertainment. It is certainly true that no man who took on the MC role after him could live up to his reputation, merely continue the status quo. Beau Nash had set the bar high and although his legacy continued no one matched or surpassed his influence. n

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OF THE BEST

Venues for summer days

Melissa Blease goes a-roaming to find farm shops, pub gardens and village venues all promising a little extra something for family outings

THE BOATER

Heading down to The Boater when the sun comes out to play may not be an entirely novel prospect – most of us are well aware of just how busy the pub’s weir-side garden gets when the weather’s right (or there’s a Bath Rugby home game going on). But on Saturday 9 July, the pub’s inaugural Film Festival offers us a new reason to take a seat in the garden. Paying tribute to three legends who left the party way too early, the Remember the Greats triple-bill film festival will celebrate three much-loved icons of popular culture as we remember them best, in three of their best-loved roles; David Bowie as the Goblin King in Labyrinth, Alan Rickman as Hans Gruber in Die Hard and Prince as The Kid in Purple Rain. Ah, this promises to be a night to remember. On a quieter note, The Boater’s monthly alfresco acoustic sessions continue, with Steve Ferbrache crooning a selection of summery tunes on Saturday 16 July. Float on. . . The Boater, 9 Argyle Street, Bath BA2 4BQ. Tel 01225 464 211; web: boaterbath.co.uk.

BIANCO ROSSO PIZZA

If the community-owned Galleries shop and café in Freshford isn’t delightful enough to earn a mention in its own right for its locally-sourced food at realistic prices, Vito Albergo’s Bianco Rosso Pizza pop-up venture which occupies the car park on Wednesday and Friday evenings is another reason to turn Freshford Lane into a SatNav sensation. Vito is the kind of foodie find that glossy lifestyle magazines travel miles to discover but he’s right on our doorstep, specialising in amazing, authentic Italian creations in one of the prettiest spots for miles around, to eat there or take away. You can also find him this month collaborating with the Electric Bear Brewery at its HQ on Brassmill Lane, Bath on Saturday 9 July and firing up the ovens at Wellow Village Hall every Monday, Beckington Village Hall every Tuesday, the King William pub in Combe Down every Thursday and at Freshford on Wednesdays and Fridays. Bianco Rosso Pizza, Freshford Lane, Freshford BA2 7UR. Tel: 07872 335120.

HARTLEY FARM

It may seem a little odd to begin a recommendation singing the praises of an event you may have missed, but we attended the first Summer Session at Hartley Farm (at Winsley, near Bradford on Avon) last month and that’s made us keen to urge you to visit the next one, taking place on Friday 29 July. The £20pp ticket price includes a two-course, Mediterranean-themed supper served sizzling from the farm’s Big Green Egg barbecue and suitably laid-back live music to make sure the party goes with a gentle swing. A bar specialising in artisan beers and local tipples will include a selection from the farm's in-house microbrewery Willy Good Ales to add to that Friday Feeling. It’s also well worth mentioning

here that Neston Farm (under the same ownership as Hartley – on the A365 near Atworth between Melksham and Box) is hosting a family-friendly, day-long food festival on Sunday 17 July. Hartley Farm, Winsley (near Bradford on Avon), BA15 2JB. Tel: 01225 864948.

CASTLE FARM CAFÉ

The brainchild of a collaboration between the clever chef Richard Buckley (of Acorn Vegetarian Kitchen, North Parade) and the lovely Castle Farm Organic folk, Castle Farm Café – which opened last month on Midford Road near Bath – deserves its place on the Six of the Best location recommendations. Imagine a friendly, welcoming refreshment pitstop specialising in healthy, hearty “food for the soul” that’s home to a gaggle of happy chickens that have been saved from battery farm hell, the Shed Shop selling organic produce and homemade chutneys, jams and more. Plus there’s a proper pizza oven. So, prepare to walk right into the beautiful, bucolic reality. The views from the patio are amazing and, at a risk of sounding corny, you really will feel like a long-lost member of the Castle Farm Café family from the moment you set foot on their territory. Castle Farm Café, Midford Road, Bath BA2 7BU. Tel: 07799 904627. Web: castlefarmcafe.co.uk.

COFFEE @ CAMDEN BURGER NIGHTS While we’re very well served down ‘in town’ for excellent burgers, there’s one burger night experience up on one of Bath’s famous hills that deserves us making the trek up the slopes on grounds of charm, price and location. Coffee @ Camden – known to many as cupcake HQ – fires up the grill on a regular basis (roughly fortnightly) and rustles up a menu of burgers from Classic to Kiwi by way of The Don, the Cheese and the Veggie Stack, all served with salad in a toasted brioche bun for around the price of a large glass of wine in many a city bar. But here’s the really good bit: from the front,

Coffee @ Camden looks like just a café Out back, however, a spacious, patio offers swoonsome views right across Bath and its leafy surrounding hills. Simply put, this is one of the most gorgeous spots in which to indulge your burger craving. Take the kids? Absolutely. They will be welcome and can tuck into a burger, chips, a drink and ice cream for £4.95 from 4pm. We’re in! Coffee @ Camden, 2 Claremont Terrace, Camden, Bath BA1 6EH; follow Coffee @ Camden on Twitter: @SarararaCoffee for forthcoming burger night dates.

WHITE ROW FARM SUMMER NIGHT FESTIVAL Picture courtesy of Chris Bailey

We sang the praises of White Row Farm on these very pages back in May. But if you've yet to take our advice and pay this glorious little foodie haven a visit, this month is the time to do it. On Saturday 9 July, farmers Steve and Heather Tucker’s Summer Night Festival is designed to celebrate all that is wonderful about their farm’s food and drink culture . . . and, of course, that setting. Lounge around on hay bales, grab yourself a locally sourced, freshly created feast (we're planning on indulging ourselves at the seafood barbecue, but the hog roast is looking particularly appealing too), choose an appropriate beverage from a selection of local craft beers, wines and ciders, including the very popular Stoney Bonk by Honey’s Midford Cider. Tap your toes to the beat of live music from local bands . . . and chillax. Do make time to treat yourself to a bit of foodie retail therapy from the deli before you leave – and to say hello to the farm animals while you’re there. White Row Farm Shop, Beckington, Somerset BA11 6TN. Web: whiterowfarm.co.uk.

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THE US DELICIO GUIDE

In our annual Delicious Guide The Bath Magazine uncovers the top gastronomic gems which celebrate the diverse culinary culture on offer in our city. Famed for their popularity, service and superb food, we hope you will enjoy our selection for 2016. After all, the best restaurants are the ones we love to visit again and again. Read it, tweet it, but most of all go and eat it... This guide is also available online at thebathmag.co.uk

THE ROMAN BATHS KITCHEN

MA CUISINE

Abbey Churchyard, Bath, BA1 1LY Tel: 01225 477877 Online: romanbathkitchen.co.uk

3 – 4 St Saviour's Road, Larkhall, Bath, BA1 6RT Tel: 01225 312959 Online: macuisine.co.uk

Brigitte and Christophe Lacroix, who have ran this family business since 2012, will welcome you into their store in the heart of Larkhall village, a friendly neighbourhood in Bath where locals pop into the shop for a coffee and chat about food, ingredients and French cooking. From Ma Cuisine's kitchen, Christophe Lacroix (former chef/owner of Pinch of Salt and Le Petit Cochon) creates authentic, gourmet French meals using local British ingredients wherever possible, with no additives, no preservatives, no colourings. All meals, including all stocks and sauces, are handmade in small batches in Ma Cuisine's beloved kitchen and then fast-frozen to retain all of their freshness, goodness and flavour. As they are frozen, they are ready to pop in the oven or microwave so you can enjoy all the classic flavours of France without all the effort. Ma Cuisine's Gourmet French Meals are also available to buy online for a free local delivery and national shipping.

MARTINI RESTAURANT

Situated on Bath’s iconic Abbey square, the Roman Baths Kitchen is a townhouse restaurant perfectly positioned for a stop-off between sightseeing and shopping; whether it’s an early morning coffee, a light lunch or dinner with friends. Voted this year as one of the top three modern-British restaurants, Searcys’ head chef Ross Shaw presents a menu that is unfussy but full of flavour, with an emphasis on using local, seasonal ingredients wherever possible. Try the beer battered cod with triple cooked chips and homemade tartare sauce, or the new lamb koftas with warm pitta, pea and mint salad, hummus and harissa yoghurt. Step inside and you will be pleasantly surprised by how big the dining space is, stretching over three floors with a main bar and three private dining rooms. The dining rooms vary in size, each one with its own style and quirky features. From the floor-to-ceiling wine case in the aptly named Winery, to the feature fireplace and banquet seating in the Lounge; the rooms are great for family celebrations, cocktail masterclasses and even wedding breakfasts. And then there is the terrace – a sunny haven with unrivalled views of Bath Abbey and the Pump Room, ideal for alfresco dining and soaking up some city atmosphere.

8-9 George Street, Bath BA1 2EH Tel: 01225 460818 Online: martinirestaurant.co.uk

The Italian restaurant run by Italians. Located at the top end of Bath, Martini is surprisingly large inside, with several different size rooms that make it perfect for large parties, families or an intimate meal for two. Run by Nunzio, Franco and chef Luigi, this lively establishment has the cheerful bustle of a busy restaurant but having that warmth and friendliness that can only achieved by being established over many years. Judging by the familiar greetings from staff, many customers are regulars – what better testament can a restaurant have to the quality of its food and service? The menu is full of regional specialities, with plenty of choice for vegetarians. A large variety of fresh fish is delivered daily and alongside the traditional favorites of pizza & pasta. A good tip is to save a little room as a delicious range of homemade desserts is particularly hard to resist. Wash it down with one (or two bottles) from a fine selection of regional Italian wine vintages. From Monday to Friday, the very popular ‘expresso’ lunch and pre-theatre menus offer two courses for £9.95 and three for £11.95. Exceptional service and a warm ambience perfectly complement the wonderful choice of food and wine on offer – all the ingredients needed for a great meal out.

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LA PERLA 12A North Parade, Bath BA2 4AL Tel: 01225 463626 Online: la-perla.co.uk

GUYERS HOUSE RESTAURANT & BRASSERIE

Welcome to La Perla Restaurante Y Tapas, a small Spanish corner right in your neighborhood. Tapas is an Andalucian mentality, an Iberian way of life. The art of living simply without pretense is the essence of Tapeo. The key to it all is simplicity and pure ingredients, shockingly delicious because of the minimal process. "Vamos de tapeo", "vamos a tapear ". - Tapear means to hang out, sharing a moment along with bites of food. A verb even exists for the art of the tapas lifestyle. It is joyful, it is casual, it is an improvisation. How many of you really know what Spanish food is all about? Tapas and sangria might be holiday staples but when looking for somewhere for dinner, Spanish food doesn't seem to be the first thing that springs to mind. La Perla has changed all that, and in doing so has leaped right to the top of the list of must-visit places in Bath. From start to finish, you're sure to enjoy unparalleled tapas, paella and sangria. At La Perla they celebrate the romance of real Iberian dining, they absolutely love what they do and openly invite everyone to come along and discover this newfangled taste of Spain

Guyers House Restaurant, Guyers Lane, Pickwick, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 OPS Tel: 01249 7013399 Online: guyershouse.com Described as “A Wiltshire wonder” in the Tatler Restaurant Guide, Guyers Restaurant has, in a short time, gained two AA rosettes and taken its place as one of the most delightful and friendly fine dining restaurants in the west. The ‘wonder’ comes from the flavours conjured by Head Chef Matt Gillard from his inviting menu of modern British and traditional dishes, with many seasonal ingredients from Guyers’ own kitchen garden. Now Guyers has also added a Brasserie for relaxed lunching and dining that is quick, comfortable and delicious. Open for lunch and dinner.

GREAT WESTERN WINE Wells Road, Bath BA2 3AP Tel: 01225 322810 Online: greatwesternwine.co.uk Great Western Wine’s shop is an Aladdin’s cave of over 1,000 of the world’s most delicious wines, plus an eclectic range of rare, small batch spirits. We love its good old-fashioned service, which is matched with modern, award-winning wines, as recognised by the International Wine Challenge, which voted GWW the Best Wine Merchant in south west England. A selection of wines is always open for tasting, and enthusiastic, experienced staff encourage visitors to linger and browse while helping to find the perfect wine. Prices at every level are competitive and a very good mail order service is also available, with the same attention to detail and personal advice by phone, email or through their website. GWW regularly hosts extremely popular wine tasting events and dinners. These sell out quickly so it’s a good idea to join the mailing list. And if you can’t make it to the tasters, you can enjoy GWW’s wines in many of Bath’s best restaurants - as featured in our Delicious Guide 2016.

GREEN PARK STATION

Green Park Road, Bath BA1 1JB Tel: 01225 787912 Online: greenparkstation.co.uk Green Park Station is home to some of the most popular monthly markets in the South West, and an array of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. Alongside Green Park Brasserie, the regular markets have a growing street food scene. With a variety of delicious hot and cold food available, including vegetarian, vegan and dairy/gluten free options, there really is something for everyone. You can visit the Thai Hut for sizzling BBQ skewers and creamy vegetable curry, The Express Café for incredible lamb and mint burgers, and Beyond the Kale for toasted sweet chilli and falafel wraps. Start-up business Manna From Avon, launching in July, will add street food from the East into the mix, lovingly re-created In Bath by two aspiring foodies. As if that wasn’t enough, the station is now a regular home to both the Bath Pizza Co and The Pizza Bike, and the smell of fresh pizzas as you walk through the station is divine! Bath Farmers’ Market provides ingredients for budding chefs everywhere by hand-picking a unique collection of traders providing fresh organic produce from within 40 miles of Bath. Taste buds tingling? Then make Green Park Station your destination and eat local.

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LE BISTROT PIERRE 4A Princes Buildings, George Street, Bath BA1 2ED Tel:01225 321840 Online: lebistrotpierre.co.uk

Bistrot Pierre’s ‘raison d’etre’ is great value French cooking and seasonal menus. They like to combine French bistrot classics such as steak-frites, boeuf bourguignon and tarte au citron with their own take on regional favourites like tarte flambée, Bouillabaisse and pâté de campagne. The relaxed and friendly bistrot is the place to go for any occasion. All dishes are freshly prepared by their chefs, using a mix of artisan produce and carefully sourced ingredients. Open seven-days-a-week serving lunch, dinner and breakfast at weekends. Their Prix fixe lunch is proving popular and offers great value 1 course £9.50, 2 courses £10.95 and 3 courses £12.95. You’ll find plenty of gluten-free dishes as well as a child-friendly menu on offer to help make your experience in the bistrot enjoyable for all. Bistrot Pierre also host special events each month, so there’s always a reason to celebrate over a great meal and good company.

FIREHOUSE ROTISSERIE

THE CHEQUERS

2 St John Street, Bath BA1 2JL Tel: 01225 482070 Online: firehouserotisserie.co.uk

50 Rivers Street, Bath BA1 2QA Tel: 01225 360017 Online: thechequersbath.com

Firehouse Rotisserie has been one of the most popular independent restaurants in Bath for 20 years. Voted by Channel 4 as one of the top five American restaurants in the UK, it has been recommended by GQ, Tatler, and The Daily Mail. It is the only genuine rotisserie restaurant in this part of the country, boasting a blend of authentic Californian and south western American flavours using ancho, guajillo, chipotle and pasilla chiles as well as more familiar herbs and spices. In addition to its delicious free range rotisserie chicken, the Firehouse is known for its range of exciting and luxurious gourmet brick fired pizzas, and classic American Deli burgers. Located on a quiet street just off the main shopping area, the buzzy, cosy and relaxed atmosphere has a bustling open kitchen where diners can watch the food being cooked to order.

Situated on Rivers Street, a short walk from The Circus and The Royal Crescent, The Chequers is a beautiful little gastropub that serves seriously good food. It manages to pull off that rare feat – delivering top quality restaurant standard dishes, in the convivial atmosphere of a friendly pub. The quality of the cooking has put The Chequers firmly on the map for serious foodies, attracted by the imaginative menu and friendly service. Traditionalists though will be glad to hear that the pub also caters for them with a selection of beautifully crafted down to earth pub classics. Diners can choose to eat either downstairs in the traditional bar area or in the upstairs restaurant which features a window into the kitchen where they can follow the chefs hard at work. The Chequers offers a tasting menu experience and has private dining & meeting room facilities available. They have an impressive & accessible list of well kept wines and serve local ales and ciders. Add in a generous dollop of friendly & professional service and you can see why it’s such a popular destination.

THE OLIVE TREE Queensberry Hotel, Russel Street, Bath BA1 2QF Tel: 01225 447928 Online: olivetreetbath.co.uk Proud to be one of Bath's longest established independent restaurants, The 3 AA Rosette Olive Tree, nestled in the basement of The Queensberry Hotel continues to receive rapturous praise from guests and locals alike. This contemporary British restaurant offers deformalised fine dining under the direction of award winning Head Chef, Chris Cleghorn, from the heart of the West Country. Chris honed his superior cooking skills as the protégé of a trio of world-renowned Michelin Star chefs, (Heston Blumenthal, Michael Caines and Adam Simmonds), and is tipped for a star himself by The Times’ Tom Cheshire. Using a combination of classical flavours with modern cooking techniques, Chris creates his own unique style, crafting menus that showcase the very best of British. Only the finest seasonal ingredients from the highest quality local artisan producers are selected, which helped The Olive Tree win Gold in the 2014 Taste of The West Awards. With good food comes good wine – The Olive Tree’s wine list brings together an eclectic balance of the traditional and the new, the serious and the fun. As a result accolades include the prestigious ‘AA England and overall Wine Award 2014/2015’ at the AA Hospitality Awards. Embracing the quirkiness of the hotel and Old Q Bar, the new look restaurant has a warm, opulent feel, bringing a relaxed elegance that complements the quality and style of food.

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THE KING WILLIAM

THE CIRCUS CAFÉ & RESTAURANT 34 Brock Street, Bath BA1 2LN Tel: 01225 466020 Online: thecircuscafeandrestaurant.co.uk

36 Thomas Street, Bath BA1 5NN Tel: 01225 428096 Online: kingwilliampub.com Situated just fifteen minutes walk from Bath’s Abbey, the King William is a destination for lovers of good pubs and great food. The kitchen is open everyday for lunch and dinner and it’s a good idea to book as this cosy little Georgian eatery is a favourite for locals and visitors alike. The bar is well stocked with locally brewed cask ales, over thirty craft beers, Somerset ciders and an extensive and excellent wine list. Coffee is freshly ground and tea is served in warmed pots. Cooking at the King William is about respect for the amazing ingredients, menus are and always have been, seasonal, local and fresh and at £15 for two courses, the weekday lunch offer is not to be missed.Two first floor dining rooms offer a more intimate setting for private dining, special occasions or as one of Bath’s most romantic dinner venues. Now in its twelfth year the King William continues as it began, a showcase of quality produce from Somerset and the south west.

CLOISTERS Bailbrook House Hotel, Eveleigh Avenue, London Road West, Bath BA1 7DJ Tel: 01225 855100 Online: bailbrookhouse.co.uk Cloisters Restaurant at Bailbrook House Hotel has two prestigious and much coveted AA Rosettes for the quality of its food and service. The hotel was completely refurbished in 2013 and ever since has been winning awards and making friends, building up a fine reputation for really great food, a splendid wine list, and superb service. The restaurant itself is an architectural gem, set in the basement, with a honey-mellowed, Bath Stone, vaulted ceiling, it opens out into the cloisters overlooking the beautiful grounds, and is possibly one of the chicest spa city dining rooms to be found. The seasonal A La Carte menu is particularly well conceived for fine dining, but the dinner Table d’ hote menu offers a brilliant option for those on a budget. Bailbrook House is on the up, up, up, and there’s quite a buzz around the place. If you have not been for a while then it deserves a visit.

This is one of Bath’s very best and a well loved entry in our Delicious Guide each year. A small, very busy, much admired, family-run restaurant, The Circus Restaurant is one of Bath’s sparkling culinary gems, serving seasonal, locally sourced, freshly cooked, English food. It has a carefully chosen wine list, and the exceptionally welcoming and charming staff all radiate enthusiasm for working there. Set in a fine Georgian house in a prime position – between The Circus and The Royal Crescent, you will find sensible and honest prices, and you’ll leave feeling that you will want to return very soon. Voted number four in the United Kingdom in The Times 20 Secret Restaurants That Foodies Love. Open Monday to Saturday - 10am to midnight (Closed Sunday). Booking is advised.

THE PUMP ROOM RESTAURANT Stall Street, Bath, BA1 1LZ Tel: 01225 444477 Online: romanbathssearcys.co.uk With its Corinthian columns, crystal chandelier and resident trio there couldn’t be a more refined dining experience in town. But the Pump Room has so much more to offer than just its signature afternoon tea. Opening at 9.30am, there’s a fine-tuned breakfast menu offering everything from eggs benedict and breakfast bloomers, to the ever-popular cheese scones and the Bath Bun. The tea menu itself deserves a mention with 16 speciality loose-leaf teas, including a very special chocolate tea. Lunch of course is a more lavish but not necessarily expensive affair, with a seasonal-changing a la carte menu and a monthly set menu for £17.50 for two courses, or £22.50 for three courses. Afternoon tea is the big draw at the Pump Room, and with tea packages now available from noon onwards there’s even more opportunity to enjoy this favourite pastime. Evenings at the Pump Room are usually reserved for private events or celebrations, but for two months only (July and August) the doors are open into the evening, allowing visitors to experience this grand venue by candelight, whilst being serenaded by live music. Late tea is available until 6pm and dinner from 6pm – close.

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HUDSON STEAKHOUSE

YAMMO! 66 Walcot Street Bath BA1 5BD Tel: 01225 938328 Online: yammo.co.uk

14 London Street, Bath BA1 5BU Tel: 01225 332323 Online: hudsonsteakhouse.co.uk

For a welcome that’s as warm as the Neapolitan sunshine, pop into this friendly, independent on Walcot Street. The restaurant may be small but it’s made a big impression since it opened a couple of years ago, winning local and national awards for its food and its service. Enjoy hearty, homemade Italian food at its best, from classic pizzas and hamburgers to fresh seafood and veggie dishes such as aubergine balls with pine nuts. Yammo! – which means ‘Let’s go!’ in Dani’s native Neapolitan dialect – prides itself on using the finest ingredients, many of them locally sourced and on making as much as possible inhouse, like the pizza dough which is made daily to a secret recipe and won the Margherita category in last year’s Pizza Chef of the Year contest in London. Yammo has a relaxed atmosphere, making it popular with families as well as couples and groups of friends. It also runs an award-winning takeaway service.

THE BEAUFORT Hudson steak house has been serving the people of Bath the best steaks for a decade now, offering its diners prime dry aged steaks, starters with a fusion influence and classic dishes, all served in a sympathetic conversion of a once notorious Victorian pub. Owner Richard Fenton took on this run down building and has created a destination that has consistently won best restaurant awards locally and nationally. The bar serves exceptional cocktails, premium beers and world wines under sparkling chandeliers, while the upstairs grill room has an open kitchen and looks out over Hedgemead Park. Top local hotels often like to send their customers to Hudson, so it’s advisable to book. We recommend the Monday to Friday early evening special from 5pm to 7pm, which features an eight ounce Flat Iron steak with frites and a glass of wine for £15.95.

1, Beaufort, London Road, Bath, BA1 6QB. Tel: 01225 422033 Online: thebeaufortbath.com The Beaufort is a little gem situated on the edge of town. It is a friendly neighbourhood restaurant that just won best newcomer at this year’s Bath Good Food Awards. This is a family run restaurant serving high quality locally sourced food. The co-owner and head chef Jack Scarterfield has a real love of food which comes across in his cooking. It is rare to find a place with great food, daily specials, sharing plates or just somewhere to enjoy a glass of wine in the charming courtyard. There are lots of imaginative vegetarian options and food intolerances are also well catered for.

THE HARE & HOUNDS Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5TJ Tel: 01225 482682 Online: hareandhoundsbath.com The Hare & Hounds enjoys a stunning location high on Lansdown Hill with glorious views over the Bath countryside. Open from 8:30am every day for breakfast, The Hare & Hounds serves home cooked seasonal food all day, every day. The smart interior features wooden floors, panels, tables and chairs - and food is very much the focus. You might start with chargrilled asparagus, prosciutto ham, mozzarella & rocket, followed by slow cooked pork belly with ham hock croquette, celeriac, apple & pickled fennel. A dark chocolate brownie, salted caramel sauce & chocolate ice cream makes a tempting finale. On summer days, customers can enjoy lunch on the large terrace; on winter evenings, the open fire creates a cosy atmosphere and the attentive but relaxed service really shines. There’s a separate menu for children and large garden that’s a big draw in the summertime. The Hare & Hounds sits only a mile from town but feels like a world away in beautiful countryside. Its location is perfect for visitors heading to or from the M4 motorway to the north of Bath. Well worth a visit for the views but certainly stay for the friendly service and fabulous food.

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AQUA 88 Walcot Street Bath BA1 5BD Tel: 01225 471371 Online: aqua-restaurant.com

THE GARRICK’S HEAD 7-8 Saint John’s Place, Bath BA1 1ET Tel: 01225 318368 Online: garricksheadpub.com

Aqua, set in a former church house, offers a spectacular dining experience. It is a family run, independent business that has been operating in Bath since 2007. Aqua provides its guests with a great selection of dishes, thoughtfully chosen to explore the different Italian cuisines but with a unique Anglo touch. With dishes such as fritto misto, pork cheeks, veal Milanese and rabbit ragout, they will wow your senses. Aqua has a great variety of food available, with weekly specials that change according to the seasons. There is also an affordable set lunch and early dinner menu, with two courses for £10.95 and 2-4-1 Bellinis every day. So whether you are wanting an informal catch up with friends or to celebrate a special occasion then Aqua is the place for you.

CAFÉ LUCCA 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath BA1 2QZ Tel: 01225 335394 Online: cafelucca.co.uk

Cafe Lucca revives and relaxes in equal measure. It serves wonderful food in a welcoming environment, offering freshly ground coffee and a light breakfast in the mornings, lunch from a selection of fresh, brightly coloured salads and bruschetta and panini, or for afternoon tea, an array of tempting cakes. This is the perfect place for catching up with friends, or as a respite from shopping and is one of Bath’s favourite places to see people and be seen. Deliciously fresh, modern Italian style/Mediterranean food is served in the elegant and spacious surroundings of The Loft. All the fresh produce and Italian products are from small local family suppliers. Situated in a traffic free street in ‘Bath’s Boutique Quarter’, the restaurant is just two minutes’ walk from Milsom Street and the Fashion Museum. And when the sun shines there are tables outside from where one can watch the world stroll by.

Former home to Beau Nash, the Garrick’s Head is a grand building with stately proportions. Open everyday from noon onwards, lunch and dinner are served in the bar, on the terrace or in the dining room. Menus are full of fresh seasonal ingredients and the style is modern British. The bar menu features pub classics prepared with respect and using the best regional ingredients, while the pre-theatre and a la carte menus are more fine dining in style. With a reputation for its well kept ales and ciders the Garrick’s also has a comprehensive wine and spirits list, with over 20 wines by the glass and 50 whiskies. Outside the terrace catches early afternoon and late evening sun and is the perfect location to sit back, watch the hustle and bustle of Bath go by and enjoy a bite to eat or a glass of something delicious from the bar.

THE DELICIOUS GUIDE

THE MARLBOROUGH TAVERN 35 Marlborough Buildings, Bath BA1 2LY Tel: 01225 423731 Online: marlborough-tavern.com

Look out for our special window sticker, which we have issued to all our Delicious entries listed here.

Located a stone’s throw from The Royal Crescent, The Marlborough Tavern combines the atmosphere of a local pub with the food quality of a top restaurant, making it a firm favourite for locals and visitors to Bath alike. The menu is essentially English in character, and uses local produce to create great tasting, simple dishes where the quality of the produce speaks for itself. The Marlborough has held 2 AA rosettes for food quality since 2009, and the pub features in both The Good Food Guide & Michelin Guide. Sundays are especially busy, with groups of friends and families enjoying the friendly pub atmosphere and legendary roasts. The Marlborough Tavern’s reputation for good food is matched by the service: friendly and attentive without ever being intrusive. The wine list is extensive, as is the selection of local ales – and the bar staff mix a mean cocktail too. Outside, The Marlborough boasts what is arguably Bath’s finest pub garden – a walled courtyard space that’s just perfect for summertime lunching and drinking with good friends.

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THE MINT ROOM Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EB Tel: 01225 446656 Online: themintroom.co.uk

THE LOCKSBROOK INN 103 Locksbrook Road, Bath BA1 3EN Tel: 01225 427119 Online: thelocksbrookinn.com

The Locksbrook Inn is a beautifully restored gastropub located beside the canal with extensive outside garden space. With plenty of decking and an outdoor bar, this is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of prosecco or a pint during the warm evenings. The menu comprises small plates, sharing platters, healthy, colourful salads, hand-tossed pizette, homemade burgers and classic dishes. Weekend brunch and Sunday lunches are also served. Enjoy salt and pepper squid and pan-fried scallops to start, or share a charcuterie board before tucking into a crisp and rustic nine-inch pizette with spicy salami and cherry tomatoes. You won’t be able to say no to a dessert with the likes of deconstructed banoffee pies and gooey cherry brownies gracing the menu. The Locksbrook Inn is open seven days a week for drinks, lunch, evening meals, grazing in between and brunch at the weekend. Children and dogs are welcome.

GPT SMOKEHOUSE The Mint room is a modern, spacious Indian restaurant located a short stroll from the centre of town and Victoria Park, with a mission to redefine Indian cuisine. It is a subtly chic, welcoming haven of upper-crust foodie fabulousness when compared to the old style curry house experience. Starters rank amongst the most exciting preludes likely to be encountered in an Indian restaurant in Bath, while mains can only be described as positively stellar, a sentiment aided and abetted by the kind of artful presentation that’s almost criminal to disturb. Competent, confident and audaciously inspirational, the chefs here are masters of the art of contemporary Indian cookery at its very best, leading us to conclude that this ostensibly unlikely gastro hotspot is well worthy of glorious acclaim. Open daily, lunch is served from 12-2pm and dinner 6-11pm (11.30 Fri/Sat)

THE DELICIOUS GUIDE ALSO SERVED ONLINE AT THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

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44 - 45 Lower Bristol Road, Bath, BA2 3BD Tel: 01225 429509 Online: gptbath.com The GPT is an independent family restaurant run by two local brothers. If you’re looking for a drink or hungry for a hearty meal, there is something for everyone. The GPT gives a friendly welcome to all with daily vegetarian specials as well as authentic smoked food cooked on an all American smoker – there’s even an outdoor BBQ on hot days this summer. All meats are from local award-winning suppliers and are at least free range. Extensive drinks options available including draught ale and local ipa’s. The GPT has a newly refurbished events space available with private loos and baby changing facilities with a licence till 3am and a capacity of up to 200 people if needed.

THE BATH PRIORY Weston Road, Bath, BA1 2XT Tel: 01225 331922 Online: thebathpriory.co.uk Nestled within four acres of mature award-winning gardens and spacious terraces, The Bath Priory sets itself apart as a peaceful haven in a bustling city. Located just a short walk through Royal Victoria Park to Bath’s city centre and it is proud to hold the city’s only Michelin Star for its exceptional cuisine, welcoming guests as if to a private home. At the heart of the hotel is an intimate dining area with magnificent views across the beautiful gardens. Executive Chef, Sam Moody, offers a memorable culinary experience with a focus on fresh local produce, flavour and balance to create exciting, modern British cuisine. The Bath Priory has its own kitchen garden where experimentation and collaboration between chef and gardener allows for the freshest ingredients to bring depth of flavour and character to Sam’s food. Expect to see dishes such as local rabbit, crispy smoked ham hock, pease pudding and mustard jus; pan fried Brixham sea bass, parsnip and ginger purée; chicken and vanilla jus roti and set buttermilk cream, sherry roasted figs and honeycomb.

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RESTAURANT | REVIEW

THE GAINSBOROUGH Beau Street, Bath BA1 1QY Tel: 01225 358888

R E V I EW

CLEVER CULINARY TRICKS

ho doesn’t love a bargain, a twofor-one, a half price deal, a BOGOF? And when that deal comes from a five-star establishment which has rave reviews on Tripadvisor, that’s an offer it’s hard to resist. I had been, like many locals, a bit sceptical about the new Gainsborough Hotel, viewing it warily as a venue aimed firmly at wooing the international market. But, within minutes of arriving in the restaurant for a weekend celebratory lunch (birthdays may come with monotonous regularity at my age but they still need acknowledging) it was clear that many of the helpful, friendly staff are local, while just a few tables away was a well known Bath Tweeter enjoying a meal with his family. Other diners on this day also sounded local. The restaurant is officially called Johann Lafer at the Gainsborough, although its Dining Without Borders ethos is delivered on a daily basis by Somerset’s own head chef Daniel Moon. I’ve eaten and been impressed by Dan’s culinary mastery before, but would his standards be as high when required to provide the two-for-one three course lunches for £29.50 for two, I wondered? We read the menu while enjoying a civilised gin and tonic in the chic bar – ‘very London hotel’ we agreed as we enthused about the choice of gins selected for us by the barman. He hadn’t any Bath Gin but the Portobello Road London gin, actually made there was very good, dry and junipery. The set menu offers a choice of three starters, mains and puddings, all of them featuring local and seasonal ingredients. The roast tomato soup with Thai basil pesto and homemade ricotta sounded refreshing and 54 TheBATHMagazine

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summery but we both fancied smoked salmon with salad niçoise. If this dish is on the menu when you visit, do order it. The staff are clearly well trained, managing the tightrope between attentive and relaxed. They bring the plates out covered in domes before performing the Big Reveal at the table. Each portion of smoked salmon was covered in a small glass dome, which when removed with a suitably theatrical flourish, released a swirl of aromatic smoke. It’s the sort of clever sensory trick that you’d expect at Bristol’s Michelin-starred Casamia, a pleasure for eye, nose and palate. Accompanying the fillet of perfect pink salmon was a nice twist on a niçoise salad, executed with a pretty little quail’s egg. The perfect starter, appetising and impressive. We spent time speculating whether the fish had already been smoked before being topped with the glass dome, or whether the smoke in the dome had subtly done the job – and, indeed, how the devil did they get the smoke into the dome in the first place? I guess, like the Magicians’ Circle, top chefs are sworn to secrecy on some aspects of their art. We toasted our good fortune with a crisp chilled Touraine Sauvignon Blanc from favoured holiday destination, the Loire Valley, and sampled the tasty, miniature, still warm loaves of different breads. The dining room at the Gainsborough is formal, it’s the sort of place you’d want to dress up for, but, again, the staff don’t make you feel out of place if your handbag is more high street than designer label. I always notice whether there is music playing in a restaurant and during our visit there was slightly irritating

piano lift music. But that was the only bum note in our whole five-star experience. I learned later that the hotel has a partnership with Bath College to offer apprenticeships, which is a positive, inclusive project. Back at our table our main courses continued to impress. Set off by a plain black plate was a crisp-skinned loin of cod on a pretty pool of fennel bisque, poured on at the point of serving, accompanied by two rich, creamy yet light portions of crab cannelloni. John’s mushroom risotto was also a masterclass in simple ingredients professionally executed, creamy with earthy fungi. My dish is topped with native samphire, while the risotto had a soft poached warm quail’s egg atop the rice. We’d signed up for three courses, but you could opt for two at £22.50 for two people. We finished with a plate of local artisan cheese and chutney, for him, which I shamelessly raided for a piece of award-winning Bath Soft Cheese. My pud was a gorgeous dark chocolate ganache, served with banana ice cream, a slice of dried banana and some playful salted caramel popcorn. An excellent finale to an excellent lunch. Long may Mr Moon’s talents continue to shine on this fine spot. The Gainsborough’s special lunchtime offer runs right through until the end of August, so if you haven’t ventured inside the hotel this will give you the perfect excuse. It’s a truly magnificent building and in the reception hall you can marvel at the shine on the Roman coins, part of the Beau Street Hoard discovered while the hotel was being restored. The rest are in the British Museum, but this little piece of history remains firmly part of Bath. n

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Your Food, Our Passion

Lite Lunch Menu To Begin: Chicken Chatt Diced grilled chicken with a rocket salad, mint sauce, tamarind sauce, fresh pomegranate & chatt massala

Seasonal Vegetable Chatt Samosa and onion bhaji chopped in little pieces served with a mixed, leaf salad, along with mix raitha, mint sauce, tamarind sauce, fresh pomegranate & chatt massala

To Follow: Lite Chicken Tikka Massala Served with saffron rice

Seasonal Veg Grilled seasonal veg served with makhani sauce and saffron rice

Super Food Chicken Wrap Paratha bread with free range grilled chicken with manuka honey & rocket salad tomato chutney

Super Food Vegetable Wrap Paratha bread with grilled seasonal veg & paneer with rocket salad and tomato chutney

Drinks Indian Drink - Nimbo Panni, or Glass of Wine (125ml) Please inform us of any intolerances or allergies you may have

Longmead Gospel Hall Lower Bristol Road Bath BA2 3EB Tel: 01225 446656 info@themintroom.co.uk

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FOOD | HEROES

THE SANDWICH SHOWMAN Melissa Blease talks to Ben Sibbald, the man who has raised sandwich making into an awardwinning artform

ade By Ben: three tasty little words that are synonymous with all manner of delicious flavours to all kinds of Bathonians. You may, for example, love this vibrant, long-established little Walcot Street cafe, takeaway and deli for its range of imaginative and superlative sandwiches (have you tried the Smokin’ Goat?) that have earned the eponymous owner Ben Sibbald multiple awards. Or, you may make the connection with pies, for Ben’s homemade creations are undoubtedly among the best in Bath. Then again, for you, Made By Ben might be all about the pick-me-up and ease-me-into-the-day Easy José coffee. Or the homemade cakes? Or, specifically, those brownies – last time I visited, huge chunks from a freshlybaked slab on a Toblerone theme were proving to be so popular that there was almost a riot as customers jostled to squeeze into the tiny shop. Having said that, some people were queuing up simply for a warm, melty slice of quiche. Meanwhile, the man responsible for the Made By magic and mayhem was dancing around behind the counter, cheerfully discussing his love of dogs with a woman wearing what appeared to be a kangaroo outfit. This month’s food hero is nothing if not versatile – and his path to local hero status didn’t even start until he’d proved his worth as a showman of a very different kind. Ben originally trained as a ballet dancer before undertaking a musical theatre course at a performing arts college in London. He says: “As it happened, however, I wasn’t cut out for the traditional West End theatre scene. Cabaret was more my thing. All types of dance in one hit and a lifestyle that I took full advantage of.” That travelling lifestyle meant that Ben could choose which cities took his fancy. After three years touring in Europe he got a job as a principal dancer at the Moulin Rouge and spent nine years in Paris before globe-trotting again, this time as a model. Ballet, cabaret, pin-up – how on earth did Ben then find his way into food? “One of the things I most loved about travelling was the food I sampled in so many different countries. But when I eventually came back home to Bath, another wonderful chapter in my life began.” Now that his dancing days are behind 56 TheBATHMagazine

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him, Ben lives in a quiet village just outside Tetbury with his family, who he adores. But every day he hits the road again, heading for his Walcot Street HQ. “I started Made By Ben to fulfil my love of cooking,” says Ben. “It was a reasonably low risk endeavour, and the plan was to spend three years building the business before expanding to larger premises. But Walcot Street is full of free-thinking, hard working individuals with the grit and determination to make their independent businesses successful; I love being part of that sense of community, so I’m still here.” Ben keeps his suppliers list as local as possible. “Every day, I take fresh inspiration from all the different local produce I buy. Richard Bertinet has supplied me with fantastic bread since day one, and to use any other bread would be a compromise. I buy all my main ingredients directly from the producers, and all my salad and vegetables from Eades greengrocer – the loyal relationship I have with all these people guarantees I keep on loving what

A WARM WALCOT WELCOME: main picture, Ben Sibbald outside his deli and café Inset, Ben’s range of richly stuffed pies are great for parties

I do.” And what Ben does, he does exceptionally well. What’s the secret of his sandwich success? “Great, wellbalanced ingredients between two pieces of lovely bread and that’s it,” he says. “The sandwich that won me the National Sandwich Designer of the year back in 2015 was essentially just cheese and pickle – but darn, it was good cheese, and good pickle!” But there’s still much more to Made

Opposite page, tempting savoury treats and cakes are lined up on the counter at Made By Ben and labelled lovingly by hand

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FOOD | HEROES by Ben than those beautiful butties. He teaches young people to cook (“the mess they make – their enthusiasm rocks my world”). He’s got plans for a cookery book in the pipeline: “The first cookbook from any cook is the one that has all the love, passion and reason in it – I can’t wait to get started!” His outside catering services have earned cult status on the party scene. But seeing as we’re dealing with a food hero who clearly doesn’t adhere to any form of conventional protocol, it comes as no surprise to learn that Ben doesn’t offer set catering menus. Instead, he designs the food around his clients, from simple oven-ready meals for family gatherings to posh canapés, back-stage festival catering, picnics, weddings and all kinds of buffets. “Creating buffets has to be one of my favourite activities,” he says. “I like to put lots of different tastes together, but again keep it simple: Valley Smokehouse smoked salmon served with a sour cream, lime, dill and caper dip; smoked duck breast with a fresh sour plum and ginger sauce; British charcuterie; homemade quiches, tortillas and salads – and cheese boards using a range of exceptional cheeses from Westcombe Dairy served with homemade cheese biscuits, Bertinet breads, fruit, walnuts and my own spiced pear chutney.” Wow – party on indeed! So who was the personal food hero that nurtured Ben’s foodie ambitions? “Without a doubt, my father and the TV chef Keith Floyd. My father travelled a lot on business and brought all manner of weird and wonderful foods home for us to try: dried shrimp from China; biltong; sauerkraut; spices

and fruit from all over the world – the list goes on. It was was all non-existent in England at the time, and magical when I was a child. Dad’s philosophy was simple: try it once and dismiss it if you don’t like it, but remember that we are the only creatures on this earth that have the opportunity to eat whatever we like. “Keith Floyd was a performer of the highest order, teaching us about food that was uncomplicated, fresh and fun. Sadly, neither dad nor Keith are with us anymore, but they were both great human beings, and very important to me and what I do today.” Can he define the key that unlocked his infectious and seemingly unbounded enthusiasm for life? “I’m not sure I could say that there is a secret to my success – if indeed, you could call it a success. Like all independent business owners, I’ve experienced wobbly times.

“But a strong work ethic, pure bloody mindedness and a ‘whatever it takes’ attitude have pulled me through the stormy moments. I’m so lucky to have built a loyal, like-minded customer base who are happy to try whatever I’ve taken a fancy to cooking on any given day. Trust is so important in a customer relationship, and I love the challenge of suggestions of what they might like me to make for them too – I’m proud of my customers. And I’m proud of the fact I am still here. I don’t follow any trends or try and compete with the competition. I arrogantly cook what I enjoy and try and turn a buck from it – and I’m loving every moment of the ride.” Next time you visit Walcot Street, let Made By Ben make your day. n Made By Ben, Web: madebyben.com

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THE WINE COLUMN Angela Mount, wine and food critic picks summery favourites to enjoy come rain or shine

ith characteristic British tenacity we embrace the spirit of summer regardless of the weather and catch every opportunity to emulate the lifestyle of warmer climes. Be it the enticing aromas of wild herbs, ripe olives, the sweetest of tomatoes, and the freshest of seafood from the Mediterranean, or the spicier, cumin, lime zest, chilli and cardamom-infused flavours of Easterninspired marinades, we love the allure of barbecues and alfresco eating. The mood is lifted, spirits are high, and there is a feeling of wellbeing. The wines we drink need to fit the mood. Here’s my pick of a few summery wines, which should be spot on, regardless of what the weather throws at us. Riva Rosé Brut Prestige Provence, France (Great Western Wine £12.95) What a fun little sparkler. Mix the magic of a southern French rosé, with a few bubbles, and you have the essence of summer. Look no further for the perfect alfresco fizz. It’s an effervescent bundle of ripe, summer fruit flavours, packed to bursting point with perfumed raspberry and strawberry scents, it has a deliciously creamy, yet zesty freshness. Refreshing, crisp, clean – summer in a glass. The perfect aperitif, or lazy weekend afternoon tipple, it will also party prettily with salads, chargrilled prawns and strawberries. Howard Park Mount Barker Riesling 2014, Western Australia (GWW £15.95) Riesling – a hero, but still misunderstood by too many. It’s amazing; it has many personalities; and it’s my favourite. Riesling is chameleon-like in the way it can change, adapt, and adopt different guises, depending on where and how it’s grown. It’s also fascinating in terms of the depth of scents, flavours and characteristics which it can display. This one is from the respected Howard Park, one of Western Australia’s leading stars. Smell it and wafts of freshly-grated lime zest, acacia honey, and meadow flowers rise from the glass. Then taste its tangy, zesty, mouthwatering flavours; bursting with zingy lime, and crunchy apple. Summery and refreshingly dry, this will be a hit with barbecued chicken and pork infused with Indian and Asian spices. Great with the freshest of Vietnamese noodle salads or Thai curries. Chateau Sainte Marguerite, Grande Reserve 2015, Côtes de Provence, France (GWW £15.95) We can’t get enough of Côtes de Provence rosé, with sales rocketing right across the country. But be careful which of these hauntingly pale, bone dry pinks you choose. Like any other wine, where it’s made, how it’s made and by whom it’s made makes a huge amount of difference. Here we have class in a glass, in the form of a lovingly-crafted, super-pale rosé, which exudes elegance and finesse. Its scented, fresh raspberry, and gentle citrus character will transport you to the sun-drenched beaches of the Riviera. To recreate this effect at home, select a bottle of this beauty and enjoy with the freshest of seared tuna niçoise salads, chargrilled prawns, or a colourful platter of roasted Provençal vegetables. Le Nogare Bardolino Bertani 2015, Veneto, Italy (GWW £11.50) Pure cherry fruit, perfumed. No oak; just freshness and juiciness. This is a perfect light summer red. Bardolino went out of fashion about ten years ago, largely based on poor quality, cheap, watered-down versions, but the very best from this region, bordering the shores of Lake Garda, have never faltered and are leading the charge back to our hearts and minds. Bertani is one of the leading producers in the area; this gentle, sweet cherry and plum fruit-drenched red is the essence of summer. Top tip, stick the bottle in the fridge for half an hour. Lightly chilled, it’s perfect with platters of charcuterie, pasta dishes, and chargrilled chicken. n

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• Instore Butchery serving locally sourced meat • Gold award winning café serving breakfast, lunch and afternoon teas • Shop stocked full of delicious locally produced food and drink and our own range of home produced cakes, salads, award winning pasties, ready meals and desserts We look forward to welcoming you soon

Farleigh Road Farm Shop, Farleigh Road, Norton St Philip, Bath, BA2 7NG Tel: 01225 720006 Email: hello@farleighroadfarmshop.co.uk Web: farleighroadfarmshop.co.uk Facebook: Farleighroadfarmshop Twitter: @FarleighRoad

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9 th July – Drink to Summer goes POP! Sparkling & Champagne Tasting 16 th July – Drink to Summer – ‘What We’re Drinking’ 11am – 5pm / No ticket required / just turn up and taste

OFFICIAL WINE PARTNER OF BATH RUGBY

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MPs TUCK IN TO BATH GOODIES Sal Godfrey joined the Bath food and drink producers of Taste of Bath who took their wares to the Palace of Westminster to put the west country’s finest on the world stage

few months ago, as we stood in the busy buzzing taproom of Electric Bear draining frosty bottles of beer, Helen Rich (the onewoman powerhouse behind Taste of Bath) mentioned to me that she and Ben Howlett MP were cooking up a plan to take Bath’s best independent food producers on a road trip to Westminster. Helen asked me if I’d come along and document the experience. On Wednesday 8 June, eight representatives from Bath’s food and drink producers community assembled in the Jubilee Room at the Palace of Westminster and set out their wares for the Taste of Bath roadshow, hosted by Bath MP Ben Howlett. On hand to provide the drinks were Honey Midford Cider, showcasing Stoney Bonk and its classic sparkling cider, Electric Bear Brewing, with a selection of artisan beers, the Bath Gin Company, home of the beautiful and enigmatic Gin Austen, and Round Hill Roastery, with the incredible perfume of fresh coffee, which brought MPs and Westminster staff in their droves. To soak up the booze, the Bath Soft Cheese Company brought along a selection, including a few hefty wheels of award-winning Bath Blue, while the Somerset Hotsauce Company offered tasters of fiery potions made with a top secret blend of herbs and spices. And for dessert, Meg’s Cottage brought samples of their homemade fudge and Choc on Choc showed off its chocolate work with chocolate cheese platters and chocolate biscuits (that’s ‘biscuits’ made 60 TheBATHMagazine

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entirely of chocolate, not your usual digestives). Finally, Helen was there to represent the rest of the Taste of Bath producers, including such firm local (and national) favourites as Heavenly Hedgerows, Yuyo Drinks, and Henny & Joe’s Chai. She was joined by David James, chief executive of Bath Tourism Plus – there to fly the flag for the city. As is the way with these things, we weren’t entirely sure how many people to expect, but it wasn’t long before the Jubilee Room was straining at the seams. More than 300 people of all sorts turned up, from civil servants and Members of Parliament to bloggers and journalists, all enticed by the promise of Bath’s incredible food scene, handily transported to London for their delight and delectation. Reactions were great all around – Doug at The Somerset Hotsauce Company told me: “At one point I thought I might run out of samples. Everyone was really positive, enjoyed the food and had a great time.” As Helen later said: “It was such a relaxed affair with lots of laughter and banter and we received so much positive feedback on our produce and our city. People across the UK are unaware of the fabulous foodie credentials of Bath and Ben Howlett MP’s showcase enabled us to shine a light on the city’s incredible foodie scene.” Among the throng were a few famous faces – I spotted Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Liz Truss tucking into some Bath Blue and MP Ian Paisley tasting the fabulous range from Electric Bear Brewing. Doug

of Somerset Sauce, who had a handy position right opposite the door, swears he saw Boris Johnson stick his head in and then rush away, although I’m unable to personally confirm that rumour. Also present was David Evennett, Minister for Tourism. Although David Cameron didn’t find time to visit us (to be fair, there was an emergency vote going on in the house, regarding the extension of the deadline for EU referendum voter registration), he was there in spirit – it seems he’s a big fan of Choc On Choc, which had a great picture of him at its stand showing off a special limited edition chocolate bar with his face on the front. Last year, Choc On Choc created bars featuring the faces of the main party leaders and got customers to vote for their favourite candidate by purchasing accordingly (Dave won, with 42% of the vote). All in all, the event was a fantastic

WEST COUNTRY ROADSHOW: main picture, Gerard Krow of Honey Midford Cider with Elizabeth Truss, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and Bath MP Ben Howlett Inset, Elizabeth Truss samples Bath Gin Opposite page, MP Peter Bottomley tucks in, organiser Helen Rich of Taste of Bath with MP Ben Howlett, and the crowds sampling Bath food and drink in the Jubilee Room, Westminster

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success for Bath’s talented independent food and drink producers, and it was great to highlight a side of Bath that not everyone knows about. Ben Howlett MP told me: “I really enjoyed welcoming so many Bath local producers to Parliament allowing us to join together in showing off how much Bath has to offer. It is a fantastic city, yet many people I spoke to only thought of it as a spa town, not realising how much more it has to offer. I want to thank all the amazing producers who gave up their time to come and show off their tasty produce, alongside Helen Rich from Taste of Bath and David James from Bath Tourism Plus.

The Secretary of State was very impressed with what the city has to offer as were all other visitors. I look forward to running a similar event next year, giving Bath a national stage.” Helen’s determined to make sure it doesn’t stop there: “We hope this is the start of a local food revolution. On the back of this amazing day in Parliament, Taste of Bath is working with Visit Bath, Bath BID and the local council to make local food more accessible to the people of Bath.” If there’s one thing this event has proved, it’s that when it comes to promoting brilliant local food, Helen is unstoppable.

Helen now has plans to roll out the Taste of brand. She already delivers crates of delicious Bath produce to visitors, locals and businesses and now plans to celebrate the food and drink of other areas. Next year, look out for Taste of reaching another city, while within five years she’s planning on having an online store for ten cities, making the best of local produce available across the UK. Sal Godfrey runs @BathIndieChat on Twitter. Independent businesses are invited to join the weekly Twitter sessions and share their thoughts for an hour from 9pm on Mondays, using the hashtag #bathindiechat. n

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CITY | PEOPLE

CITYNEWS News in brief

n Simon Barbato, pictured, founder and CEO of Bath-based brand, digital and marketing agency Mr B & Friends, has been named the Institute of Directors (IoD) South West regional Director of the Year. Simon founded Mr B & Friends ten years ago. It has doubled in staff in the last three years and now employs 36 people in its Palace Yard Mews offices, looking after clients ranging from SSE plc, Principality Building Society and the Intercontinental Hotel Group. Mr B and Friends is involved in a number of charities and community activities and offers a number of paid internships to help young people develop their experience of the creative, marketing and digital communications industry. n Independent business owners in Bath are being invited to attend a forum, organised by Bath Tourism Plus, to come up with some positive projects to raise their profile in the city. The talkin session is being held at 6pm on Wednesday 6 July at Green Park Brasserie, Green Park Station, Bath. All independent businesses are welcome – but the emphasis is about bringing good ideas that can be put into action, rather than focussing on the negative aspects of running a restaurant, café, shop or B&B in the city. For more information contact: leslie_redwood@bathtourism.co.uk. n A furniture design workshop has recently relocated from London to Dyrham near Bath. The Design Works produces a range of furniture products and bespoke projects for residential and commercial clients. David Warren, founder of the business, said : “Our connections to the west country run deep, so it made perfect sense to move and we’re looking forward to working with new customers in and around Bath.” The workshop is in Chapel Lane, Dyrham and appointments with David to discuss future projects can be made through the website: thedesign.works or by email: workshop@thedesign.works. n At a time when being stressed about work is almost considered normal, meditation is an effective means of finding a quiet mind and easing unwanted anxiety. The Yoga Healing Foundation is running a useful two-day Learn to Meditate course over the weekend of Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 July. The course, which will be held in the peaceful surroundings of Dorothy House hospice care at Winsley near Bradford on Avon, is suitable for beginners. Places cost £80 for two days (from 9.30am until 4.30pm). To book call: 0746 409 1965 or visit: traditionalyoga.co.uk.

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CELEBRITIES LEND CHARITIES A HAND

GOOD CAUSES: actor Anthony Head is patron of Focus Counselling in Bath and Game of Thrones actress Maisie Williams, third from right, joined organisers and special guests at the Assembly Rooms to raise funds for the NSPCC Actors Anthony Head and Maisie Williams have both generously given their time to help charities in Bath raise much needed funds. Anthony Head, best known for his role in long-running series Buffy the Vampire Slayer, offered to take afternoon tea for two as an auction lot offered at a fashion show in aid of Focus Counselling. The counselling service, which uses St Michael’s Church in Broad Street, raised around £1,500 from the event, with all the money going towards subsidising counselling for those in the community who cannot normally afford to pay the full amount. Game of Thrones actress Maisie Williams, lent her support to the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) by attending a summer ball at the Assembly Rooms. She was joined by around 200 guests, with MC duties carried out by BBC presenter Imogen Sellers and an auction presided over by Homes Under the Hammer presenter Martin Roberts. The ball raised thousands of pounds for the NSPCC and Childline, now in its 30th year of taking calls from distressed children and young people.

Another charity, the Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford on Avon, which runs programmes for children and young people in Wiltshire and Bath, benefitted from an open garden event, with a gardening question and answer session and a concert. Film and TV director Paul Weiland opened his Belcombe Court garden for the event and 150 guests were joined by award-winning garden designer Cleve West. A total of £5,000 was raised for the music centre. Clare Jack, Wiltshire Music Centre’s executive director, said: “We are very grateful to Mr and Mrs Weiland for opening their beautiful garden and to Brewin Dolphin, our Spring Summer Season sponsors, who generously supported the event. All funds raised will help us to deliver creative and musical opportunities for young people. This includes exciting workshops in schools, performances for young artists, our regional Youth Orchestras and our monthly Zone Club for learning disabled young adults, plus much more. The centre is a charity and we have to fundraise for all of our projects, so this will make a considerable difference.”

ROYAL VISIT MARKS 40 YEARS OF HOSPICE CARE Dorothy House Hospice Care welcomed the Princess Royal to its Winsley site as part of its 40th anniversary celebrations. This was Princess Anne’s seventh visit to the hospice, her first just a year after the charity began at its original home in Bath. Since the hospice was founded it has cared for 45,000 patients, carers and their families. It currently cares for 900 people daily, at the hospice and in patients’ own homes. As part of the royal visit patients, volunteers and staff were presented to Princess Anne and she kindly agreed to open the 40th anniversary exhibition of photographs, which will tour the region over the coming weeks. John Davies, chief executive at Dorothy House, said: “We were honoured to welcome HRH the Princess Royal to Dorothy House to celebrate 40 years of palliative and end of life care. She is a great advocate of the hospice and her visit provides a fantastic opportunity

WELCOME: mother and daughter Michelle and Imogen Russell, family of a former patient who was cared for at the hospice, presented the Princess Royal with a bouquet of flowers for us to reach out to more people across our 700 square mile region.” He extended thanks to all those who make Dorothy House the special place it is.

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The Bentley Bentayga at Silverstone. Image by TBM

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THE BENTLEY BENTAYGA When it comes to SUVs, there’s none finer than the new Bentayga, Dara Foley discovers Bentley’s new 4 x 4 is top of the class.

ccording to industry analysts, the global market for sports utility vehicles (SUVs) is booming, with sales expected to top 20 million units by 2020. SUVs offer consumers a combination of safe, comfortable and luxurious motoring options, as well as the a sense of power, presence and the idea that offroad ability is handy when it comes to making our way along our terribly pot-holed streets. Added to that, the appeal has increased not only due to recent reductions in fuel costs but also higher aspirations with new-found social mobility across all emerging markets worldwide. As demand increases, the major manufacturers seize the opportunity to bring bigger, better, faster and more opulent models to the cavalcade. At the top end of what has become affectionately known as the ‘Chelsea Tractor’ market, Land Rover, with its Range Rover variants, Mercedes with its GLS, Porsche (Cayenne), BMW (Xs), Audi (Qs) and Volvo (XC) series have all been in high demand, and are a lifestyle choice for motorists wanting a badge with status and quality. So when Crewebased Bentley Motors introduced the Bentayga to create a super-luxury element to the SUV segment late last year, the game of big car oneupmanship changed overnight, and Bentley has just top-trumped them all. It’s reported to have invested over £800 million in its development – with new facilities creating new jobs – and it is the biggest in the manufacturer’s history. So far

it seems like a shrewd move. The reviews are excellent, and all cars are sold-out for the first year of production. The Queen was one of the first to place an order, and as far as endorsements go, being fit for royalty is not a bad place to start. Bentley calls this “the fastest, most powerful, most luxurious and most exclusive SUV in the world” and while Rolls Royce is in advanced development of its own SUV, until then, it seems there really is no other car that can compare to the Bentayga. With an entry price of just over £160,000, although Bentley will expect most sales will be in excess of £200,000 with optional extras – the Bentayga will mostly appeal to current Bentley owners, who, perhaps with a Continental, Spur or Mulsanne in their garage, are also likely to have one of those other SUVs for everyday use. They can now be seriously tempted by the choice to upgrade to the badge they most cherish. Indeed the Bentayga is like nothing ever produced in Crewe. At a recent test drive at Silverstone, I was fortunate enough to spend some quality time with one, and found this car to be as supreme off-road (or on some very unkempt country roads) as it is fast on the track. At the same event, I switched from the McLaren 570 to the Bentayga, and on the long straight at the Stowe Complex, only the track professional driver could really exploit any difference; and was surprised at just how fast the Bentley was. This is an incredible feat of

engineering, considering it is over 5 meters long and weighs a solid 2.5 tonnes. The 6-litre W12 power plant of an engine can generate 600hp and propel the Bentayga to a blistering 060mph in 4 seconds, and then on to a top speed of 187mph. While being whisper-quiet inside, it is a velvety smooth ride and handles with complete assurance, but performs like the best sports car. This is mainly due to Bentley’s superb adaptive air suspension system – even on track corners there is very little roll. There are four standard ride settings for road – ‘Bentley Drive’ for everyday comfort, ‘Sport’ to activate a stiffer suspension and liven the twin turbo chargers, ‘Comfort’ which gives a dreamy ride, absorbing cobblestones as if they are non-existent and ‘Custom’... just in case there’s something they’ve not thought of. The all-terrain specifications give four more preset drive modes, two specifically for off-road – the mud and trail and sand modes – while the others give improved performance on dirt, gravel, snow, ice and even wet grass. All drive modes can be enhanced further by the added advantage of four ride heights. The big attraction with the Bentayga is its styling, undeniably Bentley DNA: the diamond hatched grille and the trademark build quality which is all there, but in a muscular, bold body design that sets the range apart. A few years ago, there was much speculation as to what the Bentayga would look like, with a lot of early Photoshop mash-ups on the web. Most took the

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Optional extras: If the standard Breitling simply won’t do, then a diamond and solid gold Tourbillon will add around £150,000 and, for those who like to picnic, the £22,000 Linley Hamper by Mulliner is an absolute must.

‘pimp my Q7’ route but, thankfully, they had it all wrong, and while 4x4’s may all, by definition, have visual similarities, Bentley has brought its own exquisite styling to create a stately, fearless and very beautiful car. Inside, every inch is sumptuous, with quilted, hand-stitched leather, fine fittings and devilish detail throughout. The padding is deep and deluxe and any outside noise or vibration seems far distant. Even the rumble of the giant 22-inch tyres is perfectly muted. The simplest things are a real joy too, robust trumpet-style valves that control the air vents, knobs – that require turning – have precision-milled edges, and buttons – that require pushing – give a deep, affirmative click to let you know if they’re on or off. The two front seats are super plush, and multi-adjustable – heated or cooled if needed – and the back massage makes a long journey a spa-like experience. However, this is a utility vehicle too, therefore the boot needs to be as expansive as other SUVs’ – in the test car, there was a fetching Linley Hamper set by Mulliner (an optional accessory at £22,000 and essential utility) but plenty of space also for a pair of Purdey’s, a bag of Callaways, and a full shop of Waitrosia. As standard finishing touches go, a small ‘old-school’ analogue clock sits unassumingly in the centre of the dash, bearing the name Breitling – chosen perhaps because of a winged emblem, similar to Bentley’s famous Flying B. Just another one of the well-considered adornments that make the Bentayga a true delight. The Breitling clock is also upgradable, a masterpiece decorated with diamonds and machined from solid gold, the Tourbillon version is likely to add £150,000 to the price! The big feature in 2016 across all prestige cars is the continuation of advanced technology convenience, and the Bentayga has it all, in various specifications. The ‘touring specification’, as on our test model, is packed with new features to make you feel safe and in control on all journeys. Each feature has been created to make long drives easier, automatically adjusting and warning you if there is a potential problem. So if you lose concentration on the motorway, Lane Assist uses cameras and sensors to ‘lock-on’ to the white lane lines and when in operation, automatically adjusts the steering... Yes, it is driving itself. While the Adaptive Cruise Control is not a new feature, the long-range sensors that measure a specified time gap with the car in front are. In a step towards fully automated driving, it includes Stop & Go, Dynamic Distance Monitor, Corner Speed Assist and Speed Limit Assist. The Stop & Go function brings you to a controlled halt if the traffic ahead stops and then restarts when the traffic moves within three seconds. Traffic Assist 66 THEBATHMAGAZINE

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combines Lane Assist and the ACC into play together when you are in slow-moving heavy traffic. Bentley Safeguard Plus includes a system which will intervene if there is the potential for a frontal collision, preparing Bentayga for a full, safe emergency stop if required. And then there’s Advanced Night Vision, which uses thermal imaging technology to alert you to any warm-bodied potential hazard ahead. The Head-Up Display makes driving even safer, projecting key information on to the inside of the windscreen, so you can keep your eyes on the road for more of the time. Despite all this seemingly complicated tech, controlling it is very simple and the touchscreen LCD makes everything easy to understand – which is probably the greatest testament to clever, intuitive design. For entertainment, the option to include a 20-speaker system by British hi-fi manufacturer Naim Audio, will add £6,300 to the price matrix. As you might imagine, the running costs and fuel consumption will be high, at an average 19.9 mpg, but not too many Bentley customers will worry about that, as it will still be cheaper for four adults to enjoy a return trip to London by Bentley in ultimate style (on one full tank) than a single first class return by train. Overall, the Bentley Bentayga is the epitome of elegance and quality – quite simply a wonderful car that makes for the most compelling luxury product. And globally there will be no shortage of purchasers wanting the very best. Should you be fortunate with your investments, win the lottery, or merely do rather well in life, then this has to be one of the finest things for one to enjoy. ■ Test car courtesy of Rybrook Specialist Cars Bristol, The Laurels, Cribbs Causeway Centre, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol BS10 7TT; Tel: 0117 203 3990 rybrook.co.uk

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PROPERTY... AND VEHICLES? Do you hold UK property? Our July 2015 article highlighted the increasing complexity of the UK’s property tax system, and covered a few significant changes that had been announced at that time. This article briefly revisits some of those changes and highlights another, having had time to consider the potential impact.

he general theme with property is that you have always had to consider all taxes separately, as different rules apply for each. For example, is VAT or stamp duty payable on the purchase? Will VAT be due on any future rental streams and what is the impact on VAT recoverability? How will income and future gains be taxed? Are you intending to hold the property long term, or sell it on quickly, and if so how is the gain taxed?

We have been appraising the tax effect for some clients and have found in certain instances, particularly high borrowings clients, that their forecast income tax liabilities will increase substantially (some fivefold).

If you own, or are about to acquire property, and need advice on your specific circumstances, please contact Jon Miles on 01225 325580 or jm@richardsonswift.co.uk to arrange an initial discussion.

The changes do not at present affect furnished holiday let operations nor corporate entities. Therefore, the choice or change of investment vehicle is critical.

Jon Miles

Capital Gains Tax So – which vehicle? Once the various taxes have been considered, the question of what “vehicle” should hold the property arises e.g. personally, through a company etc? It has always been important to ensure that this question is properly addressed at the outset, firstly to ensure it is commercially appropriate, and then to make it as tax efficient as possible throughout ownership, and when the venture comes to an end. Also, unwinding the structure is likely to be messy and have a tax cost. Following the changes that we highlighted last July, coupled with the phased in restrictions ahead for buy-to-let investors (see below), there is now even more to think about before deciding which vehicle to use. We can only touch on the issues here, but suffice it to say that each situation will be different depending on your individual circumstances.

Eventual sales of properties are of course subjected to tax. For individuals the main rate of tax applying on gains made on residential property is 28%. It is important to realise that tax is now due on gains made even if the individual owner is not living or based in the UK. In fact, the timeline for reporting and paying any tax is far more restrictive than for those living and based here. It will also be important to consider the calculation of the gain and making sure that you make the most beneficial claims for costs and reliefs. This is an area that we are constantly advising clients on, particularly as these transactions are coming under ever more intense scrutiny from H M Revenue and Customs.

www.richardsonswift.co.uk 11 Laura Place, Bath BA2 4BL T: 01225 325 580

For example, if you can demonstrate that you own a substantial property “business” rather than mere passive letting of one or two properties, there may be beneficial tax reliefs for transferring your portfolio into a company, but you also need to consider how much of the annual rental profits you intend to reinvest. You then need to bear in mind the Annual tax on enveloped dwellings (“ATED”) which we mentioned last July. Very broadly, residential properties worth more than £500,000 are now within this regime to some degree, including property investors who, although should not have tax to pay, are likely to have to file nil returns within a tight timescale.

Buy to let interest At present full income tax relief is normally available for interest on a loan taken out in connection with an individual’s buy-to-let property. With effect from next April interest relief will be progressively restricted so that by 2020 onwards there will only be a basic rate tax reducer available.

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The Big Move - Living Together By Madison Fowler, Sharp Family Law – Bath and Bristol Solicitors. Producing Resolution not Prolonging Conflict

Chris had worked tirelessly to save up a deposit for his new house – a three-bedroomed place where he hoped to raise a family one day. His girlfriend could contribute only a quarter of the deposit, but agreed to share mortgage payments with him. Rachel had lived in her flat for three years, after purchasing it using an inheritance from her grandparents. She wanted her boyfriend to move in and he offered to pay all the bills in lieu of rent. In the midst of the house-warming parties and decorating plans, it may not seem like the time to consider what might happen if you were to break up. But in fact, it can be a good conversation to have before the big move. There are six million cohabiting couples in the UK, but many have no idea that under current laws in England and Wales, they have no automatic rights or protections when they break up. This is the case no matter how long they have been together. When it comes to housing, cohabitees are reliant on land and trust law to sort out any disputes over the family home. But because these laws were never designed for the specific needs of cohabiting couples, the outcome is often uncertain. With this in mind, it can stave off future conflict, and legal costs, if the couple’s intentions regarding the property are clearly recorded.

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This is where a Cohabitation Agreement comes in. A cohabitation agreement can be tailored to meet the specific needs of a couple, by recording details as to: • who owns what • who will pay the mortgage and other household expenses • what should happen to assets and property if you separate • your intentions as to any future property or assets

It was a big conversation for all four of them, but it gave them each a feeling of certainty and security once it was done. Our solicitors at Sharp Family Law in Bath & Bristol can advise and assist you to handle the discussion sensitively, and then formalise your agreement taking into account you and your partner’s wishes, contributions and long-term plans. Then you can start planning the house-warming! Madison Fowler

❝

it was a big conversation for all four of them, but it gave them each a feeling of certainty and security once it was done

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his year, Chris and Rachel each made a big, exciting decision – to move in with their respective partners for the first time.

After seeking advice from family lawyers, Chris arranged a declaration of trust to reflect his and his girlfriend’s initial contributions to their new home, and a cohabitation agreement to set out how they would share mortgage payments and bills. Rachel chose to arrange a cohabitation agreement with her boyfriend, protecting her ownership of the flat and agreeing that he would pay the household bills.

Clare Webb

sharp F A M I LY L A W Sharp Family Law: Helping clients to reach solutions 5, Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2PH, UK email: info@sharpfamilylaw.com m: 07798 606 740 t: 01225 448955 website: www.sharpfamilylaw.com

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ocl A C C O U N TA N C Y

141 Englishcombe Lane, Bath BA2 2EL Tel: 01225 445507

www.oclaccountancy.com

Don’t let the date of your company’s year end add to your cashflow problems! There are a couple of small but useful hints of which company owners are often unaware: • the ability to change the date of a company’s financial year end, and • the ability to change its VAT return dates. Corporation tax is payable nine months and a day after the end of the company’s accounting period and given that many companies have 31st March as their year end, the tax is payable by 1st January – a bad time for many businesses which are seasonal or simply suffer poor cashflow over the Christmas period. Changing the year end date, and so payment date, can be a good cashflow management idea – and it’s easy and quick to do. For example, choose 31st May for the year end and payment will become 1st March. Changing the VAT reporting / payment dates can be useful when, for example, the annual corporation tax payment date falls alongside a VAT payment date.You can change the VAT reporting dates and therefore stagger payment timing – and again, it’s easy to do.

For tax saving tips contact us – call Marie Maggs, Mike Wilcox or Hannah Bratten on 01225 445507 for a no-obligation meeting. We look forward to meeting you - and see our website for more, including FREE download guides.

What our clients say:

“Thank you for your excellent customer service, OCL has been one of the best things we have done as a business” “For us, in our 30 years experience, OCL Accountancy is the best fit we have found”

Boost your profits - Reduce your tax Maximise your wealth

Call Marie Maggs, Mike Wilcox or Hannah Bratten on 01225 445507 to arrange a no-obligation meeting THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

JULY 2016

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A SPORT FOR ALL

Georgette McCready visits a stretch of the River Avon in Bath where Olympic success for Team GB has seen a rise in women taking up the sport of rowing

magine strolling along beside the River Avon early one morning in midsummer and a team of four rows swiftly past, their boat like a slim white arrow skimming along, their oars perfectly in time with each other slicing cleanly through the water. Look more closely at the crew and the chances are they may not be the public schoolboys that you might assume – indeed you’re just as likely to find a group of forty or fiftysomething women wielding the blades. Since Heather Stanning and Helen Glover took the first ever Olympic gold for British women rowers four years ago there has been a rise in the number of women taking up the sport. I visited the Minerva Rowing Club at Newbridge, where one-time PE teacher Helen Glover began her rowing career, to find out the sport is undergoing change. There, in the neatly stacked racks of lightweight boats, is a yellow craft named Thermae. It is the boat that was built for Helen and that club members get a vicarious thrill from training in. All eyes at Minerva – as indeed many in Bath – will be on Helen and her teammate Heather as they prepare for the women’s rowing finals in Rio, due to take place on Friday 12 August. The club was founded in 1914 as the Bath Ladies Boat Club and it would interesting to see what those original members made of today’s rowers, who age from 13-year-olds to veterans in their 70s who still scoop the awards at regattas. Two of Minerva’s most experienced oarsmen, president and 70 TheBATHMagazine

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Olympic gold medal winner Arnold Cooke and German born Klaus Riekemann, also an Olympian rower, are both great role models for younger rowers. A commentator was recently heard at a regatta saying: “You think you’re in with a chance of winning a race, then you learn that you’ve been drawn against Arnold Cooke and you know you don’t stand a chance.” At the recent British Rowing Masters competition in Nottingham Arnold and Klaus won four out of the four races they entered. Arnold in a single and then Arnold and Klaus in a pair, in a double, in a coxed four and a coxless four. Back on the banks of the Avon, a group of women is carrying their boat down to the edge of the water. They are newly graduated from the club’s rolling Learn to Scull programme and after five weekly sessions they’re growing in confidence. They’ve been coached by professional Yuk-Ching, a cheery and encouraging woman whose professional services have been funded by Bath and North East Somerset Council, keen to see more women taking up sport. Ching says: “They’re like my fledglings. I look after them and then I let them fly.” As she talks the crew of four are carefully taking their seats in the sporty looking boat, steadying themselves with their blades. Within minutes the boat is making its way smoothly out to the open water. The Newbridge club is lucky to have four kilometres of river to row on, between Twerton at its eastern reach to Saltford at the western end. Chairman Jane Giddins feels she is

fairly typical of the current crop of Minerva rowers. “I rowed many years ago at university, but then stopped. It was only after my children grew up and a shoulder injury put paid to my tennis playing that I went back to rowing. It hadn’t really occurred to me before. When we were growing up rowing wasn’t even an Olympic sport. What do most people think of when they think of rowing? It’s a short, sharp fierce battle between crews of young, let’s be honest, posh boys. And there’s an awful lot more to the sport than that. In America, Canada and France, rowing is a sport that’s enjoyed by middle aged women and I’d like to think it will be the same here in the UK. “It’s ideal. It’s non contact, it’s low impact and it’s incredibly good for strong legs and glutes, core strength and a good cardio workout. There’s also something very measured about rowing. It is very technical and controlled, a bit like tai-chi or yoga on water. I love to go out on the water, it’s very calming. You concentrate on what you’re doing, you’re exercising out in the fresh air. A kingfisher might fly by, and you’re in such beautiful surroundings.” Minerva began the mid-week beginners’ classes as the weekend sessions were very busy, but not so many people used the boats during the week and it was decided this was a good way to run taster sessions. The women I spoke to as they set out in a four said they had learned a great deal from the course, but they were aware that they still have a lot more to

DASHING BLADES: main picture, Minerva in action on the River Avon Opposite, Arnold Cooke and Klaus Riekemann with their gold medals won at the recent British Rowing Masters, and right, the latest group of beginners to finish the Learn to Scull course, with coach Ching

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learn. They had clearly bonded as a group and were enjoying each other’s company. Jane said: “One of the great things about the sport is that it’s very sociable. We have people from all different backgrounds, of all ages. As you can see from these ladies, getting a couple of young men from the university squad to help them carry the boat down to the water, everybody mixes in. When we go away to regattas there’s a great sense of camaraderie.” I spoke to club member Laura Cowen who had just come off the water after an early

morning scull along the river. “It’s so much nicer than working out in a gym,” she said. “And because the club is largely run by volunteers we’re able to keep the costs down. Members get the use of these wonderful boats, expert coaching, use of our new shower and toilet block which was opened by none other than TV sports broadcaster John Inverdale, and, of course, this fabulous setting. Membership is £23 a month and our subs help pay for new boats. “We have just acquired a new eights boat,

which cost £20,000, with some funding from Sport England.” Minerva is also always looking for coaches and coxes. The next Learn to Scull five-week courses run on Thursday mornings for two hours from 11.30am. The next one runs from 28 July to 25 August and the last one of the season is from 8 September to 6 October. To join one of those courses contact: sculling@minervabathrc.org.uk There are also weekend sessions for learning to row from the end of July. Contact: chairman@minervabathrc.org.uk to book. n

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CITY | OF | FESTIVALS

ALL-STAR LINE-UP FOR FAMILIES It was ten years ago when a couple, passionate about children and books launched a new event. Georgette McCready looks at the success of Bath Children’s Literature Festival, now the largest of its kind in the country

decade ago I sat, notebook and pen in hand, as an enthusiastic couple came to tell us that they were about to launch a fresh festival in Bath, centred on children and children’s books. We chatted about their extensive knowledge of the publishing world and of some of the authors and illustrators they knew who would happily come to Bath to share their love of getting young people excited about reading. As John and Gill McLay – for it was they with this plan for a children’s literature festival – left our offices a colleague and I looked at each other and wondered, cynically, whether this was going to be a five minute wonder. It’s a good job I didn’t promise to eat my hat or I’d be choking on my cream wool beret as the McLays triumphantly announce the programme for the 2016 Bath Children’s Literature Festival, which runs from 1 – 9 October. The couple, who live in Bath with their children, are still as passionate and genuinely delighted with the festival as they’ve ever been. As Gill revealed some of the big name authors who are coming to the south west this October her eyes were bright with excitement. This year the festival is running without the sponsorship of the Daily Telegraph, but instead has teamed up with children’s newspaper First News. She said: “All we really need to make it a great festival are families and children. It’s going to be such a great 72 THEBATHMAGAZINE

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tenth anniversary.” Here are some of the highlights: l David Walliams, whose children’s books have won him legions of fans, is coming to the Forum, where he’ll talk about his career and his popular books. l Canadian astronaut Colonel Chris Hadfield will launch his new book, The Darkest Dark and talk about how he became an astronaut. l Former children’s laureate author Malorie Blackman will be in conversation with radio presenter and author Simon Mayo in which they will discuss their books and young adult literature. l War Horse creator and familyfavourite Michael Morpurgo will be back in Bath talking about his latest book. l Chris Riddell, author of the Goth Girl series, will give a talk about his role as the current children’s laureate and answer questions from his young fans – through live drawing. l Team GB’s most successful Olympic athlete and cyclist, Chris Hoy, will introduce his new series of books for young readers, Flying Fergus. l TV presenter and wildlife champion Chris Packham will recall many animal stories as well as talk about his first book, Amazing Animal Journeys. l Broadcaster and author Clare Balding will talk about her first book for children, The Racehorse Who Wouldn’t Gallop. l Comedian, entertainer and writer

THE BIG BATH KIDS READ: from top left, David Walliams, Chris Hoy, Clare Balding and Julian Clary Second row, Simon Mayo, Malorie Blackman, Lucy Worsley and Michael Morpurgo Below, Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man

Julian Clary will team up with illustrator David Roberts to introduce their new book in The Bolds series. l Historian and author Lucy Worsley will bring Tudor times to life with her novel Eliza Rose. The book explores the life of Katherine Howard and Henry VIII’s court through the eyes of the maid of honour, Eliza Rose. l Illustrator Axel Scheffler will do live drawing and storytelling based on family favourites such as Stick Man and Superworm. l The Dragon’s Dentist by Tom Morris, adapted from the book by festival artistic director John McLay, will be brought to life as a play at the Mission Theatre by Next Stage production. l The Kids Big Bath Read returns. The book under review will be Hamish by Danny Wallace and illustrated by Jamie Littler. l A series of masterclasses offering popup book making, Doctor Who story writing, collage making and tips on how to become a journalist. Look out for events, activities and competitions to celebrate the 10th anniversary, including the arrival of the CBeebies Radio Bus. It looks as if the mighty McLays have done it again and are poised for another season of entertaining, enthralling and inspiring young readers. Tickets for some of these events will sell out fast. Keep in touch with what’s going on via the Bath Festivals Facebook page and on Twitter @Bathfestivals. n

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Jason

“HOW LONG IS THIS GOING TO GO ON FOR? TILL HE’S 18?” ALC–UK is a quick and effective program that helps those with dyslexia. Here, Christine reveals how the ALC–UK program helped her son overcome his challenges

ccording to Jason’s mother Christine: “If we got through a school day without Jason being disruptive that was a plus point basically. Then it was flagged up that he had ADHD, so he was put on medication.” “But when I used to mention homework he would literally jump over the sofas. When they say ‘climbing the wall’s’ – he was virtually doing that. He’d do one sentence and say he needed a reward or something. It was very, very difficult.” “It affected the social side of things, because he doesn’t know when to back down. On sports days he’d always run to be front of the queue. He couldn’t stand still in the queue at passport control, couldn’t understand that you’ve got to wait your turn. So you are on edge because you are thinking: ‘how’s he going to behave?’” “Being on medication meant that he didn’t sleep very well and he never used to get hungry until about 10.30 – 11pm and then when we were trying to get him to bed he’d want a cooked meal,” she says exasperatedly. “However on the second day of starting the ALC program we noticed that Jason was calmer and he wasn’t as argumentative when we asked

him to go to bed. In fact he took himself up to bed and went to sleep, because he was tired – that’s never happened before.” “So his new ability to sleep will be a huge thing for us, because if people don’t get their sleep it leads to all sorts of problems,” says Christine. “His appetite since we’ve started the program is unbelievable; it’s like he is making up for lost

time. We’ve never seen him eat so well. Before he’d just say ‘I’m not hungry’.” “I used to think: ‘how long is this going to go on for? Till he’s 18?’ So he’s off the medication and I really want to keep him off it,” she emphatically explains. “So to think that it could be more normal has just got to be good for everyone!” With its unique two week program, ALC–UK can address challenges associated with dyslexia, such as spelling, handwriting, concentration, reading, memory, anxiety, confidence, headaches, understanding and vision. Book your summer holiday program now at alc-uk.com, or call 01935 403260 to find out more. n

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THE GUIDE TO SUMMER FUN

With the school holidays just around the corner, The Bath Magazine has created a go-to guide for fun for all the family this summer

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AMERICAN MUSEUM IN BRITAIN Claverton Manor, Bath, BA2 7BD Tel: 01225 460503 Web: americanmuseum.org Set in a manor house in an area of outstanding natural beauty, the American Museum is home to the finest collection of Americana outside the United States. The museum is famous for its Colonial to Civil War era period rooms, its outstanding quilt collection, inspiring folk art and Native American collections. Family backpacks enhance a family visit and there are many events throughout the year including family fun crafts during local school holidays and children’s workshops. This year’s special exhibition An American Toy Story that appeals to all generations ends on 30 October. Opening hours (until 30 October 2016): Tues – Sun, 12 – 5pm, café and gardens open from 10.30am. Admission prices: adults £11, over 60s and students £9.50, children (five – 18 years) £6.50, family ticket £28.50.

BOWOOD HOUSE & GARDENS

LADY LENA CANAL CRUISES

Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 0LZ Tel: 01249 812102 Web: bowood.org

The Kennet and Avon Canal Tel: 01225 834250 Web: ladylena.co.uk

Bowood House and Gardens is the perfect place for a family visit, with something for everyone. There’s an adrenalin fuelled adventure playground for the under 12s, with its life-size pirate ship and aerial walkways, thrilling slides (as pictured left) and perhaps the most famous and popular of all – the space dive with an exhilarating 19 foot vertical drop! A hop, skip and a jump away is Tractor Ted’s Little Farm with a barn full of friendly farm animals. The whole family can relax in 100 acres of beautiful parkland, designed by Capability Brown. Or visit Bowood House, home of the Marquis and Marchioness of Lansdowne. Open daily until 31 October, 11am to 5.30pm. Tickets: adults £12, senior citizen £10, junior (five – 12 years) £9, infant (two – four years) £7, family ticket (two adults and two children) £36.

The Lady Lena is a Victorian electric launch available for private charter on the historic Kennet and Avon canal, between Bath and Bradford on Avon, and is believed to be the oldest electric river launch in existence. The boat can take between two to ten people, the trips being two – five hours depending on your choice. The Lady Lena can pick you up from either Bathampton or Bath, where you will be welcomed with a glass of Champagne or sparkling elderflower. Then sit back, relax and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the beautiful surroundings. You can have a cream tea on board, or there are caterers available to provide customers with an assortment of refreshments. You can also bring your own picnic. This is the perfect way to spend a sunny day with all the family or celebrating a birthday. Prices start from £100.

MUSEUM OF EAST ASIAN ART 12 Bennett Street, Bath, BA1 2QJ Tel: 01225 464640 Web: meaa.org.uk

Have you ever wondered why the colour red is so important in Asian culture? The Museum of East Asian Art’s new exhibition Red – Culture, History and Craftsmanship explores the many different aspects of the colour red in Chinese culture, and reveals the rapid advancement of red wares during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). The Red exhibition is part of the museum’s re-launch programme following a short closure. A total of 588 objects are now on display, including 261 objects which have not been displayed in the past four years. These objects span a history of over 7,000 years – from the oldest originating from around 6,000 BC to the most recently made in 1998. Join the museum’s curator, Nicole Chiang, at the relaunch event on Friday 29 July for a brief tour to discover the new permanent display, which is presented in four interesting themes. Admission: £6, £3 for friends of MEAA and students, free for Discovery Card holders.

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THE FASHION MUSEUM Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath, BA1 2QH Tel: 01225 477789 Web: fashionmuseum.co.uk The Fashion Museum is home to one of the world’s leading collections of historic and fashionable dress. You’ll see everything from sumptuous Georgian gowns to spectacular outfits by some of today’s top designers. Look out for a series of fun, fashion-themed events for families over the summer holidays. Tickets: adults £8.75, concessions £7.75, children £6.75, family £27. Opening hours: 10.30am – 5pm between March and October. Free to Discovery Card holders.

WELLS CATHEDRAL Cathedral Green, Wells, BA5 2UE Tel: 01749 674483 Web: wellscathedral.org.uk

BATH AREA PLAY PROJECT Odd Down Community Centre, Bath, BA2 2TL Tel: 01225 832479 Web: bapp.org.uk Bath Area Play Project is a local registered charity facilitating a range of play opportunities for children and young people across the Bath area since 1979. The charity’s organisers are a friendly bunch who work hard to support and enable thousands of children to have a fantastic time during the long summer holidays. This summer the project has the fully inclusive SOFA16 programme for young people aged 12+ years from 20 July to 12 August, holiday playschemes for disabled children aged five – 19 years from 20 July to 12 August, and free community playdays and family sessions from 25 July to 19 August. Children today have far less freedom to play independently, explore their community and meet peers outside of school. Research has shown that play supports children to develop resilience and improve mental and emotional well-being. If you would like to volunteer or donate to the charity, then visit bapp.org.uk for more information.

In the heart of medieval Wells and easily reached by car and public transport, visitors to the cathedral are welcome every day of the year. Family trails and holiday workshops will be available throughout the summer including badgemaking and learning about saints (10 August), and soap carving and mason’s marks (24 August) – no booking required. Or join a free scheduled daily tour with one of the cathedral’s enthusiastic cathedral guides, available every day (except Sundays). The cathedral also runs free window walks and embroideries tours on most Saturdays and Wednesdays (April – October) from 11.15am. A different theme is offered each month. And why not make a day of it and visit the popular Wells Market which also takes place every Wednesday and Saturday? Opening Times: April – September, 7am – 7pm. Donations are welcome on entry. There may be a small separate charge for family workshops to cover cost of materials.

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WILD EDGE ADVENTURE Brassknocker Hill, Bath, BA2 7HS Tel: 01225 290904 Web: wildedge.co.uk Wild Edge Adventure is holding archery taster sessions for families during the month of July on four Saturday mornings at Combe Grove Hotel in Bath. Refreshments will be available for those taking part. Sessions will be one hour long and there will be three sessions available per day. The minimum age is eight years and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Each session is £15 per person. Visit wildedge.co.uk for more details on how to book your spot – places are limited.

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THE GOLFING HOLE Spectrum, Mead Way, Swindon, SN5 7UT Tel: 01793 524646 Web: thegolfinghole.com The Golfing Hole is one of Swindon’s newest leisure attractions. Established in July 2014, The Golfing Hole is an 18-hole indoor adventure themed golf course designed to fit in well with Swindon’s industrial background. The course features a range of different holes to test your putting skills, and after your round you can enjoy some drinks and food, maybe play a game of pool, air hockey or table football. It’s a great place to celebrate a birthday, enjoy a night out with friends, or for some family fun. It also holds corporate events, or stag and hen parties. No need to book, just turn up and play. During the summer holidays the attraction is open from 10am daily. Minimum age: four years. Please note The Golfing Hole is located on the first floor via a staircase and a lift is not available. Follow The Golfing Hole on Facebook: facebook.com/GolfingHole, and on Twitter: @GolfingHole.

THE HELICOPTER MUSEUM Locking Moor Road, Weston-super-Mare, BS24 8PP Tel: 01934 635227 Web: helicoptermuseum.co.uk

The Helicopter Museum is home to the largest collection of helicopters in the world. The museum's unique collection features two aircraft from the Queen's Royal Flight, a Russian Anti-Tank Hind Gunship in addition to the current world speed record holder. Other highlights include the quirky helicopter-boat, a massive 37 passenger helicopter and a group of aircraft from the Vietnam War. Open cockpit days are held regularly, as well as a host of events aimed at all ages. Treat yourself to a helicopter experience flight on selected days, or enjoy the children’s play helicopter and play area in the sunshine. Weston-super-Mare’s largest indoor attraction also provides an onsite café and gift shop for all its visitors. Suitable for the whole family in all weathers. Opening hours: 10am – 4.30pm. Tickets: £7 adults, concessions £6, child £4.50.

WILTSHIRE MUSIC CENTRE Ashley Road, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire, BA15 1DZ Tel: 01225 860100 Web: wiltshiremusic.org.uk

STOURHEAD Near Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6QF Tel: 01747 841152 Web: nationaltrust.org.uk/stourhead

Throughout the school summer holidays Wiltshire Music Centre is dedicating a month to creative and musical activities for children and young people. Children can take part in a whole week dedicated to singing, acting and dancing, before putting on a new mystery musical to family and friends at the end of the week. There’s sensory classes for little ones aged 0 – 12 months, where they can sing, play and get creative, and there are a variety of craft classes throughout the month for children of all ages to learn how to make giant paper flowers, a bumble bee hat and beautiful collages. Young musicians will also be able to display their talents by taking part in the summer strings Image: NTI/John Millar music olympics and the folk and roots summer school. Visit wiltshiremusic.org.uk to book. Every Friday in August get outdoors and closer The centre will also be putting on children’s to nature with wild family fun at Forest Fridays movie nights, with the 1940 Disney classic (11am - 3pm) at Stourhead. Bring the family, a Fantasia, Inside Out and a sing-along special of picnic, and enjoy a range of wild adventures led Frozen being shown in August. by bushcraft expert Greg, who will be sharing outdoor skills and teaching the art of fire lighting and camouflage. Talented artists the Whispering Woodfolk will be bringing the woods to life with workshops on trapeze, stone carving and storytelling, and the Stourhead tree climbing team will be offering you a chance to climb some wonderful red oaks in the garden. Each Forest Friday event will end with an enchanting aerial performance in the trees, capturing the magic of the forest and offering a glimpse into another world. To enjoy Forest Friday there is a cost of £5 per child, plus normal admission to the house and gardens. Tree climbing has an additional cost of £2.50 per climb on a first come first serve basis; adults are more than welcome to have a go at climbing too. The whole family can also delve into the history of Stourhead by visiting the country house and discover more about the Hoare family who lived there. Admission: £15.60 adults, £7.90 children, free for National Trust members.

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THE ROMAN BATHS Stall Street, Bath, BA1 1LZ Tel: 01225 477785 Web: romanbaths.co.uk Walk around the steaming great bath where people bathed nearly 2,000 years ago, see the ruins of the temple of Minerva, and explore the fascinating museum. Every evening in July and August, the Roman Baths will stay open until 10pm for a season of torchlit summer evenings. Tickets for adults in July and August are £15.50, concessions £13.25, children £9.50, family tickets (two adults and up to four children) are £44. Free to Bath and North East Somerset residents with a Discovery Card. Opening hours in July and August: 9am – 9pm (exit 10pm).

THE HOLBURNE MUSEUM Great Pulteney Street, Bath, BA2 4DB Tel: 01225 388569 Web: holburne.org

Enjoy free creative animal art activities and display your work in the Holburne’s Sackler Gallery this summer. Follow the trail of the mouse lemurs which have escaped from the current Stubbs exhibition, and small pictures of these beautifully observed little creatures will be placed around the museum for families to find. Stubbs and the Wild (25 June – 2 October 2016) is an exhibition of animal portraits, grand fantasies and exquisite prints and drawings by renowned wildlife painter George Stubbs (1724 – 1806). Admission £10, includes free audio guide. Two tickets for £10 on Tuesdays. Children under 16 get free admission.

LONGLEAT Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW Tel: 01985 844400 Web: longleat.co.uk This summer experience the rhythm of the savannah as Longleat presents a season of live celebrations in honour of the Safari Park’s 50th anniversary, taking place from 23 July – 4 September. The park will be filled with traditional African performances and Longleat’s first ever parade will create an un-missable end of day finale. Other events this year include the all-new Sky Safari (16 – 18 September) which will feature more than 50 hot air balloons, including Longleat’s own ‘flying lion’, taking to the skies in a mass ascent along with a spectacular musical night glow on the Saturday night. Plus, don’t miss exploring Longleat House to discover more about its four centuries of history. Book online to save up to 15% on tickets at longleat.co.uk.

MILL ON THE BRUE Trendle Farm, Bruton, Somerset, BA10 0BA Tel: 01749 812307 Web: millonthebrue.co.uk Zip wires, assault courses, grass toboggans, canoeing, high ropes, archery, raft building and sailing down the River Brue, tunnelling, giant water slide, and a climbing wall – these are just some of the exciting activities children aged seven – 12 can experience at Mill on the Brue Outdoor Activity Centre. There will be three themed days every week – army, pirates and olympics – plus two days of the best of the outdoor activities. Available Mondays to Fridays, 8.30am 5.30pm during the summer holidays from Monday 18 July. £57 per person for the day or £258 for a weekly ticket. Includes drinks, snacks and two course lunch. Booking is essential. Tel: 01749 812307 or email: info@millonthebrue.co.uk.

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FLEET AIR ARM MUSEUM RNAS Yeovilton, Ilchester, BA22 8HT Tel: 01935 840565 Web: fleetairarm.com The Fleet Air Arm Museum is Europe’s largest naval aviation collection and is a day out guaranteed to thrill the entire family. Go on board the world famous Concorde, step inside a rescue helicopter and immerse yourself in the aircraft carrier experience. As well as the exciting exhibits inside the museum we will also be holding search and rescue make and take and camouflaged themed family workshops running from 1 – 26 August, 1.30 – 3.30pm. So if you’re looking for a fun filled family day out, the Fleet Air Arm Museum is an all-weather attraction. Book online now to save 20%, fleetairarm.com. Tickets: adults £16, children £12, concession £14.

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CHEDDAR GORGE & CAVES Cheddar, Somerset, BS27 3QF Tel: 01934 742343 Web: cheddargorge.co.uk

CURTAIN UP West Wing Theatre, Hayesfield School, Upper Oldfield Park, Bath, BA2 3LA Tel: 07974014490 Web: curtainup.org.uk

Curtain Up Theatre School is known throughout the Bath area for producing spectacular “Show in a Week” summer schools. During the junior week this summer, 25 – 29 July, children will create a production of Aladdin Jr. The following week, 1 – 5 August, seniors will create Spamalot, Young@Part. The school rehearses in the West Wing Theatre at Hayesfield School all week and families are invited to watch the free show at the end of the week. No experience is necessary to take part. Price: £140 per child, sibling discounts available. To find out more, visit: curtainup.org.uk.

Discover the landscape of Cheddar Gorge this summer. Whether looking up at the towering cliffs, or down from the cliff-top, walk across the Mendip Hills and beyond, and see why Cheddar Gorge is considered one of the natural wonders of Britain. Explore Gough’s Cave and Cox’s Cave with their stunning stalactite formations and awe inspiring chambers. Discover Cheddar Man, Britain’s oldest complete skeleton, and learn about our ancestors. Don’t forget to check out the Dreamhunters the Adventures of Early Man experience, which is new to 2016. Based deep within the magical and mysterious chambers of Cox’s Cave Dreamhunters makes full use of a dramatic natural setting to tell the story of how our ancestors overcame ancient fears, and fierce predators, and made the tools and weapons needed to build shelters and hunt to protect the tribe. Book online to save up to 15% at cheddargorge.co.uk.

VICTORIA ART GALLERY Bridge Street, Bath, BA2 4AT Tel: 01225 477233 Web: victoriagal.org.uk Explore the gallery’s outstanding collection of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts. The current major exhibition A Room of their own: lost Bloomsbury Interiors 1914-1930 will recreate interiors by the famous Bloomsbury Group (11 June – 4 September). Plus, there’s a host of free events for families over the summer holidays. Open daily between 10.30am – 5pm. Entry to the gallery is free, however there is a charge for large temporary exhibitions.

FREEDOG

KIDZ ABOUT Spectrum, Mead Way, Swindon, SN5 7UT Tel: 01793 524646 Web: kidzabout.com Kidz About has been established since 2005, providing quality indoor play from birth to 12 years. For four to 12 year olds, the centre has climbing apparatus, a red spiral slide, a green astra slide and a blue drop slide. Check out the newly installed equipment, which has doubled the amount of space to play. The centre also boasts an activity assault course bouncy castle and a football pitch. Kidz About has a separate toddler area for under fours (or up to 3ft, whichever comes first), and a separate area for babies who are not quite mobile yet. There’s also a full café area serving drinks and hot and cold food. Opening times: Monday – Friday 9.30am – 5.30pm (during the summer holidays), Saturday 10am – 6pm, Sunday 10am – 5.30pm. Children under 12 months go free with each full paying child, valid all day everyday. Follow Kidz About on Facebook: facebook.com/kidzabout.

Unit 2a-2a Templegate Park, Mead Street, Totterdown, Bristol, BS3 4RP Tel: 0117 2034888 Web: freedog.com/bristol A new addition to Bristol, Freedog is far more than your standard trampoline park. Providing exhilarating fun for all ages, you can also choose from a range of additional activities including wall running, trapeze, and making your way across the slack line. See if you can get through the laser maze without breaking the beams. Perhaps a parents versus kids game of dodgeball is in order? Whatever activity you choose you can be sure all of you will get a great workout.

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OUT & ABOUT

IN LOVE WITH THE LIDO Make the most of summer with a day out at one of the west country’s outdoor swimming spots

undraising is underway to reopen Bath’s glorious historic baths, the Cleveland Pools, with much anticipation of enjoying outdoor swimming again in the city in future. Cleveland Pools, which have been closed to swimmers for years, are now subject to a vigorous restoration campaign which needs to raise £600,000 in cash and pledges by November. To date the total stands at £238,500 and the army of volunteers who are behind the campaign are asking for Bathonians and enthusiastic outdoor swimmers to get in touch and pledge money to realise the dream to restore these historic baths, which are the oldest in the country. To help, contact appeal board chair, Kim De Morgan at kim@clevelandpools.org.uk. Meanwhile, we have to travel a bit further afield to find an open air swimming spot. Some lidos are open throughout the year for hardy open air swimmers, others are only open for the summer. We advise you to phone and check opening times before visiting any of the lidos on our list. Here’s a pick of our favourite outdoor swimming spots: SANDFORD PARKS LIDO, CHELTENHAM Sandford Parks Lido in the spa town of Cheltenham was built in 1935 and is one of the largest outdoor swimming pools in the UK. It retains its quirky period charm with features such as the 80 TheBATHMagazine

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cascade fountain and slides. The lido consists of a 50 metre heated outdoor pool where two lanes are reserved most days, a children’s pool with a slide, paddling pool, playground and poolside café. There’s plenty of space in the four acres of gardens to spread out towels, put up parasols and enjoy picnics. The main pool, which is the only officially measured 50 metre outdoor pool in the country, varies in depth from 0.9m in the shallow end to 2m in the deep end of the pool. All the pools are heated to over 70°F (21°C). Included on the site is also children’s play equipment, table tennis and basketball (bats and balls can be hired from the reception). There’s a large car park and your admission ticket allows you to stay all day poolside. Please call or check the website for opening times. Keynsham Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. GL53 7PU. Tel: 01242 524430, visit: sandfordparkslido.org.uk

PORTISHEAD OPEN AIR POOL Portishead Open Air Pool is a 33m heated outdoor pool at the Lakegrounds in popular Portishead, with views of the Bristol Channel from the sun terraces. On a hot summer’s day this is as near as we’ll get to the Riviera, as the sun sparkles on the pool and the channel beyond. There’s a paddling pool for toddlers, a separate lane in the main pool for serious swimmers, and after a dip, you can dry off on the terraces. This is a great place for posing, if you’ve a mind and there’s a community-run cafe for snacks and hot and cold drinks. The pool was saved by public appeal, making it an inspiration for our own lido restoration in Bath.This summer it is hosting a series of evening swims by moonlight – the next one is on Saturday 16 July. Check the website for opening hours. The Esplanade, Portishead BS20 7HD. Tel: 01275 843 454, visit: portisheadopenairpool.org.uk or follow on Twitter @PortisheadLido. CIRENCESTER OPEN AIR POOL This is another Victorian legacy, a town pool which opened in 1869. It offers the chance to swim in natural spring water heated to an average 27°C (80°F). There is a 28-metre main pool with a slide, separate children’s paddling pool, separate male and female changing rooms with hot showers, sunbathing patio and snacks from the tuck shop, although picnics are also welcomed. Open from May to September each year

WATER BABIES: main picture, Portishead Open Air Pool Inset, vintage style women’s swimming cap: aliexpress.com Opposite page, main picture, Cheltenham’s 1930s Sandford Parks Lido, top right, Greenpank in Street and below right Wivey Pool in Wiveliscombe Inset, the Victorian vibe at Clifton Lido, Bristol

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OUT & ABOUT

the pool offers facilities for families, parents and babies as well as serious swimmers. Whether it’s for a family day out, an aerobic swim or a long sunbathe followed by a dip, Cirencester Open Air Pool is a top place to go on a sunny day. Cecily Hill, Cirencester GL7 2EF 01285. Tel: 01285 653947, visit: cirenopenair.co.uk. HUISH EPISCOPI OUTDOOR POOL The 25-metre, five lane outdoor heated swimming pool is open until early September and is attached to Huish Leisure Centre at Langport in Somerset. The pool is supervised by qualified lifeguards providing a safe environment and there are separate male and female changing areas with showers and toilets. Check the timetable before visiting as the pool is used by schools and clubs, so public sessions are limited. Wincanton Road, Langport, Somerset TA10 9SS. Tel: 01458 251055. WOTTON OUTDOOR POOL The Wotton outdoor pool is 18m long, by 6m wide and the depths go from 1m to just over 2m and with the water heated to 28-30°C, it makes for a very pleasant swim indeed. A referendum was held in the town to save this popular community site and the townspeople voted overwhelmingly in favour of paying a little more council tax to keep it going. In colder weather, a retractable roof pulled over the pool and drawn back for open air swimming when the weather is fine. There are separate male and female changing rooms, toilets and hot showers and a municipal car park close by. Please check opening information on the website. Symm Lane, Wotton under Edge, Gloucestershire GL12 7BD. Tel: 01453 842086, visit: wottonpool.co.uk. CLIFTON LIDO, BRISTOL Tucked away in the heart of Clifton, this refurbished Victorian outdoor heated pool reopened in December 2008 and features not only the pool, but a sauna, outdoor hot tub, steam room, spa treatments, restaurant and bar. The pool is open throughout the year and is heated to 22-25°C. It is largely a members only

spa (£58 a month), but non-members are welcome Monday – Friday between 1pm and 4pm, for £20 for three hours use of the facilities. The lido combines contemporary chic with Victorian heritage – the poolside changing facilities feature fun stripy coloured curtains and wooden cubicles. But when you make that self-conscious walk from changing to swim in the pool there’s very much the feeling that the diners behind the glass are able to check you out. This is very much a stylish place for grownups to come to relax and unwind. Oakfield Place, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2BJ. Tel: 0117 933 9530, visit: lidobristol.com.

ideally located opposite Clark’s Village, you can park in the pay and display there. The season ends on 11 September. Wilfrid Road, Street, Somerset BA16 OEU. Tel: 01458 442468, visit: greenbankpool.co.uk. WIVEY POOL, SOMERSET Wiveliscombe open air pool is a heated open air facility with lane swimming and inflatable fun sessions with music. It can be found in the far corner of the recreation ground in Wiveliscombe and offers changing facilities and a new sundeck and eating area. It has been open from May to September since 1927. Culverhay Lane, Wiveliscombe, Somerset. Tel: 01984 624720. BATHURST OPEN AIR POOL Given as a present to Lydney by the Bathurst family in 1920, Bathurst swimming pool is considered to be one of Gloucestershire’s best kept secrets. This 38-metre outdoor pool (fully supervised by qualified lifeguards) in the Forest of Dean is run by volunteers and open during the summer. There’s a shop selling refreshments, an area for picnics and sunbathing and toilets. Open daily until 3 September with free parking. High Street, Lydney, Gloucestershire GL15 5DY. Tel: 01594 842625.

GREENBANK POOL, STREET Greenbank Pool was granted to the local people thanks to a trust set up on behalf of Alice Clark who wanted Street’s women and girls to be able to learn to swim. The men already swam naked in the River Brue, apparently. The pool opened in 1937 and still retains a lovely old-fashioned air, with some of the reassuringly traditional rules too, such as no bombing, ducking, splashing or heavy petting. There’s a large main pool and a semi-circular children’s pool which are both heated, and a splash area with a slide, fountains and water jets. There are lawns for sunbathing or picnicking and you’ll find hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and sweets. The pool has a small car park; alternatively, being

FARLEIGH AND DISTRICT SWIMMING CLUB Not strictly a lido, the swimming club, founded in 1932, is one of the oldest wild swimming clubs in the country. It offers swimming in the silky waters of the River Frome at Farleigh Hungerford, with entry to the water just above an old stone weir. The waters get very deep (eight feet) quite quickly so people are advised to only swim when other swimmers are present. There’s also a wooden diving platform with ropes for the more daring to hurl themselves from. There’s plenty of parking in nearby meadows, there’s an open air changing stall and a Portaloo, but plenty of space on the sloping field to picnic. Dogs are not permitted. Membership is payable on arrival, if the gate is manned by a volunteer. It’s £10 a year for adults. n

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SUMMER | SHOPPING

ON THE

BEACH

Whether you’re caravanning in Devon, at the Lido or supping cocktails in an all-inclusive Caribbean resort, you’ll want to dress to impress Le Specs Halfmoon Magic women’s sunglasses, £42, Magpie and Bear, 7 Green Street, Bath BA1 2JY, magpieandbear.com

STAY COOL: floppy hat, £10, from River Island

Large beach tote, £27.50, from White Stuff

RETRO STYLE: Petal swim cap, £13, from simplyswim.com

MAKE A SPLASH: Melissa Odabash underwired Tuscany swimsuit, available in black or red, £197 from The Dressing Room, Quiet St, Bath

SAND AND SURF: above, swimwear by Australian active brand Cenote swimwear (top £35, bottom £16, plus shipping)

COVER UP: pretty pink peach Melba wrap, £22, from Accessorize

TUTTI FRUTTI: bra top and high waist brief, £22 and £16, from Next

Plage Exotique Kiwi beach towel, £99, Yves Delorme, 11 Milsom Place, Bath BA1 1BZ

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HEALTH | BEAUTY

SCENTS

o f SUMMER WE’VE SNIFFED OUT SIX OF THE BEST FRAGRANCES FOR LONG, HOT LAZY DAYS AND WARM SUMMER NIGHTS

hat smells can transport you instantly back to a golden summer of your youth? Is it the green tangy scent of the newly mown school playing field where you got green stains on your white shirt? Or perhaps it’s that oily, thick amber-coloured sun tan oil, Ambre Solaire that was rubbed on to sandy shoulders at the beach. There are many things that can evoke that long-lost holiday mood. It might be a freshly sliced lemon, a perfectly ripe melon or overblown roses hanging from a pergola. Even the wet smell that comes off a garden just after heavy summer rain can prompt a deep sense of nostalgia and belonging to another time and place. The clever perfumiers understand the visceral power of smell and are never ceasing to conjure up new recipes to recreate an afternoon nap in a holiday villa, the sense of excitement as a Champagne cork is popped, or the cosy purity of newly laundered clothes. We did a quick tour of Bath’s beauty counters to pick some of the best fragrances with summer in mind. AN ENGLISH GARDEN Chiswick based artist and wallpaper designer Marthe Armitage has created some delightful artwork, evoking the charms of a warm English summer afternoon, for Jo Malone’s latest limited edition collection. Named in her honour the Marthe Armitage collection is inspired by fragrances including romantic roses, blossom and just-ripe English garden tomatoes. Set of four soaps, £30, Green Tomato Leaf candle, £44 and Nectarine Blossom and Honey bath oil, £56 – from the Jo Malone shop in New Bond Street, Bath.

EVOCATIVE Acqua di Parma’s Blue Mediterraneo is bottled in distinctive blue glass which echoes the deep shades of the Mediterranean sea. The latest fragrance, suitable for men and women, ia Cedro di Taormina. It is woody and warm with fresh notes of citrus and basil. £61 for 150ml at Space NK in New Bond Street. FLOWER AND FRUIT Imagine you are enjoying a light nap on a sunny day beneath the shade of a pear tree in a citrus garden in a glorious villa in Rome – that’s where the perfumiers at Guerlain would like to transport you with this seasonal scent. One of the long-lasting eau de toilette Aqua Allegoria collection, Pera Granita is £47 for 100ml, available at Jollys.

ITALIAN ADVENTURE Guerlain’s Terracotta Le Parfum was originally created as a limited edition but was so popular it’s been brought back. With warm notes, it’s ideal to wear after a day at the beach or by the pool, dabbed on to sun-kissed skin to create a carefree holiday mood. It’s £49 for 100ml from Jollys.

NATURALLY INSPIRED The Clean Reserve brand prides itself on being as ecologically and humanely kind as possible, using recycled packaging, sourcing ingredients carefully and paying fair wages to its international workers. Warm Cotton smells as deliciously clean and fresh as newly washed laundry just off the garden washing line – without any of the chemical detergent after-smell. Staff at Space NK admit this is their current go-to tester on hot days. Warm Cotton would be perfectly matched with Clean Reserve’s Rain, an uplifting mix of refreshing bergamot, white flowers and patchouli. Both are available in store at £79 for 100ml.

SENSE OF OCCASION Zarko Perfume is a relatively new Danish perfume house, created in 2014, and new to Space NK. Pink Molecule is its newest addition, designed to appeal to a youthful spirit of exuberance and style. An extrovert of a perfume it is fruity and flowery, with a hint of pink Champagne. £75 for 100ml at Space NK, Bath.

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ADVERTORIAL | FEATURE

BONKERS BUBBLES AND MOONLIGHT MAGIC Join the celebrations for Dorothy House Hospice Care’s 40th birthday this year by raising money in two fantastic events which are fun for all the family

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four – 16, and £25 for adults aged 17 and over. All paying participants will receive a T-shirt and medal. There is no minimum sponsorship required but, as always, we’d love you to raise as much as you can to help us fund vital patient care. Saturday 10 September is our famed womenonly sponsored 8km walk in the heart of Bath – but with a facelift. For nine years the Midnight Walk has been our biggest fundraiser, it hosted over 1,000 entrants last year and raised over £120,000 towards continuing to support people with life-limiting illnesses.

❝

Imagine dancing through a rainbow latte

❝

orothy House Hospice Care celebrates a very special birthday this year as the hospice turns 40! To mark the occasion we have two unmissable events planned that you’ll want to be part of. Whether you prefer soaking in the sunshine or a night under the stars, we’ve got it covered. Sunday 31 July marks a special day as we launch our most thrilling fundraiser – the Bubble Rush! Taking place at the circuit at Castle Combe, near Chippenham, this 5km fun run, walk or stroll will lather participants with luxurious creamy bubbles in different colours at the giant bubble stations. Imagine dancing through a rainbow latte! The Bubble Village will supply live entertainment, children’s activities, food and a pre-Rush warm-up. There are no age restrictions and the circuit is child friendly and suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs and prams. Taking part in the inaugural Bubble Rush is Fran Kuzemka. “I’m attending with my sister, Briony Bishop, and our four children. My mother-in-law, Mary Kuzemka, passed away at Dorothy House almost two years ago. My children remember the last time they saw their granny at Dorothy House with fond memories. “When the Bubble Rush event was advertised we thought it was the perfect chance for our children to have some fun and learn about raising money for charity, all in memory of someone we love.” Entry to the Bubble Rush is free for children aged three and under, £7.50 for children aged

This year, as the walk marks a big birthday – 10 years since 500 women started out on a midnight walk around Winsley and Bradford on Avon – the event has had a makeover and we are delighted to unveil the Moonlight Walk. Rather than starting at midnight, the walk will begin at 10pm so everyone can get to bed a little bit earlier. The walk is open to women aged 14 or over. Registration costs £17 and walkers are requested to pledge an additional minimum £40 sponsorship or a donation in lieu of sponsorship.

Barbara Thomson is taking part in the Moonlight Walk for the first time. “I am doing this with my daughter and granddaughter, in a team called Pink Ladies. We are walking in memory of Cedric Thomas, our dad and granddad. September 10 would have been his 70th birthday.” Both events will be an incredible opportunity to support your local hospice and make history as we celebrate this very special year. To find out more about these events, call: 01225 721480 or visit: dorothyhouse.org.uk. n

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THE | WALK

ASO NEAR AND YET SO FAR Walking through the hamlet of Langridge is like stepping back in time says Andrew Swift as he visits this delightful rural spot

n 1940, Arthur Mee wrote that ‘there is no more delightful experience for an Englishman than to be lost in some of the lanes around Bath, and if it is in the valley by the Gloucester Road it is all the better . . . When we come to Langridge there is nothing about us but the lovely group made by the barn, the farmhouse, and the church. Dull would he be of soul who could pass by a sight so touching in its tenderness.’ Mee is not the only writer to have waxed lyrical about Langridge. Mrs Wheatcroft, who wrote a series of ‘picturesque village rambles round Bath’ in the 1890s, thought that Gainsborough ‘must have painted some of his celebrated landscapes’ here, adding that, ‘were it not for the fertility of the hill sides, we might imagine ourselves in one of the beautiful glens which diversify the scenery of Cumberland and Lancashire.’ Even the generally restrained Rev John Collinson, in his encyclopaedic survey of the history and antiquities of Somerset, described Langridge as ‘situated three miles north from the city of Bath, on the eastern declivity of Lansdown, with a rich and beautiful vale below.’ It is extraordinary how a place so close to Bath can still seem so remote, and is so little known. Walking the grass-grown lanes of this hidden valley is to take a trip back in time. Few of the houses you pass are later than the 17th century, and some are considerably older. If all these superlatives have sparked your interest, then this month’s walk – an undemanding five-mile hike through unspoilt countryside – is worth checking out. It starts on Lansdown, near the monument to Sir Bevil Grenville, who died – along with hundreds of others – at the English Civil War battle fought on 5 July 1643. From the battlefields, a track through woods and fields, leads to a green lane running gently downhill. Branching off it to follow the Cotswold Way, we pass from Somerset into Gloucestershire and enjoy a splendid view of one of the most famous landmarks around Bath – the caterpillar of trees stretched across the horizon which is one of the favourite subjects of Bath artist Nick Cudworth and featured in this magazine. After passing a group of cottages clustered round a ford, we climb past 17th century Torney’s Court Farmhouse and back into Somerset before following a lane down through the hamlet of Tadwick. After more 17th century 90 TheBATHMagazine

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buildings comes something more recent – a ruined hut and the remains of what looks like an anti-aircraft emplacement connected with the nearby Second World War airfield at Charmy Down. From there, we cut across a field and head up another lane to Langridge, where – as when Arthur Mee visited – there is just a tiny church, Court Farm, and a brook burbling along below. St Mary Magdalene Church dates from Norman times, and received an honourable mention in the Domesday Book, but is no larger now than it was then. Hemmed in by rolling hills, this really is a place that time forgot. Much of the church is Norman, although the apse at its east end was added by Major Davis (of Empire Hotel fame) in 1872. Along with memorials to members of the Blathwayt family, the church’s treasures include a 13th-century carving of the Madonna and Child. Sadly, one of its greatest treasures, a medieval brass depicting Elizabeth Walsche, with a small dog at her feet, was stolen in 2002. Court Farm next door dates from the 14th century, although, given how long ago this valley has been settled, it may

stand on the site of a much older building. Roman coins of the 4th century have been discovered in the churchyard, and, while there is no clue as to who left them there or why, the valley they looked out upon still appears much the same today. From here, all that remains is a gentle climb up a green lane embowered by high-banked trees to return to the starting point. DIRECTIONS To get to the starting point, drive north from Bath up Lansdown Road. Threequarters of a mile after passing the main entrance to Bath Racecourse, just past signs warning you to slow down, pull into a lay-by on the right (ST721702). Take the path leading towards the Lansdown Monument and continue along a path curving through woodland. Cross a stepped stile, carry on beside a wall, cross another stepped stile at the end and carry on downhill. After going through a seven-bar gate, continue down a green lane for 350 metres, before turning left to follow a Cotswold Way sign through a gate. (ST730703). Head down a field, go through a kissing gate

NATURALLY INSPIRING: main picture, the Caterpillar, as this line of trees is affectionately known Opposite page, an ancient green lane below Lansdown and St Mary Magdalene church at Langridge

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THE | WALK

and continue in the same direction, passing a bench ideally placed to take in the view. Carry on through a pair of gates, heading towards a group of houses. At the bottom, when you come to a metalled track, turn left across a cattle grid and bear right along a rough track (ST734709). Follow the track as it bears right through a gate and continue as it curves uphill, ignoring a gate on the left. Go through a gateway and head diagonally across a field towards a waymark post between a lone tree and a large barn in the far corner. Follow the waymark past a high fence, and go through a handgate, passing Torneys Court Farm. Carry on through another handgate and head

up to a KG. Turn right along a drive and right again when you come to a lane (ST741706). After 850m, just past Walnut Lodge, go through a KG on the right. Head diagonally down the field to another KG and turn right along a lane. After 250m, a lane branches off right by Tyning Cottage (ST742695). Although this is the way back, before turning up it carry on for 250m to Langridge church and Court Farm. From there, retrace your steps and turn up the lane. After 500m, turn left by an old barn and carry on up a green lane, passing the turning to the Cotswold Way you took earlier, and carry on to return to the starting point. n

FACT FILE ■ Length of walk: five miles ■ Approximate time: 3 hours ■ Map: OS Explorer 155 ■ Refreshment stops: None ■ Level of challenge: mostly on lanes and well-marked tracks, although a few sections may be muddy

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Interiors June.qxp_Layout 1 22/06/2016 10:19 Page 1

LET’S TAKE THIS OUTSIDE Crack open the Pimms, light the barbie and pull out the parasols – summer’s here and Bath interior designer Clair Strong has some great tips for making your garden soirées even more special

CONSIDER YOURSELF AT HOME: throw a few cushions around those hard garden chairs – these are from Raj Tent Club

Find your place in the sun: parasol, table and chairs from Raj Tent Club, online shop: rajtentclub.com

LIGHT THE WAY

If you want the fun to continue late into the evening, you’ll need light. The right kind of lighting is important: you want it to be practical – keeping guests safe from trip hazards, allowing them to see their food, etc – but atmospheric. Candles, string lights and lanterns are all great options for adding a little flair to your affair. A combination of all three is ideal: string lights for an overhead glow, candles in gorgeous Scandi-style votives from Shannon, and lanterns lighting the paths. And, this is personal preference, but I usually opt for solar lights, they’re far more economical and can be safer than electric lights. But for something really special, a fire pit is a real crowd-pleaser, providing light and warmth on cool summer evenings. Gather round, toast some marshmallows and reminisce about the good old days. I like the Skagerak Helios Fire Bowl, available at Salcombe Trading; its smaller size makes it suitable for any garden or terrace.

Skagerak Helios fire bowl from Salcombe Trading, Broad Street, Bath

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Black by Design Sirius LED Aura lantern from black-by-design.co.uk

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SUMMER | TRENDS

SET THE SCENE

The great thing about a garden party is that you don’t need to go all-out decorating. The garden itself does the hard work for you. If it’s a really special occasion – a birthday or anniversary party for example – and you want to decorate, keep it simple. I like a playful, tropical vibe in the garden. Especially for more relaxed gatherings. Think pineapple garlands strung between trees, quirky flamingo lawn ornaments and, if kids are present, maybe even a piñata. If you’re throwing an outdoor dinner party and want to keep things tasteful, opt for linen table cloths and candles in glass votives. Add a few fresh cuttings from the garden in glass vases and lay the table before everyone arrives. For a really sophisticated touch, create place settings for each guest.

Cocktail cart in rose gold from Sisters Guild

Melamine plates by Rice DK at Sisters Guild, web: sisters guild.com

BE SEATED

MADECOM Catania lounge set, web: MADE.com

Too little seating and some guests will be left standing all evening, too spread out and people will find it difficult to mingle. The idea is to create a comfortable, relaxed vibe that encourages guests to linger. A casual party calls for blankets, cushions and bean bags for guests to lounge on, festival style. I like Fatboy’s all-weather bean bags available at TR Hayes; they’re huge, comfortable and virtually indestructible. They come in a great range of colours too. If Fat Boy cushions from TR Hayes, Walcot lounging on the grass isn’t your style, consider still-casual-but-classy outdoor sofas and chairs. Arrange them in groups around low tables to give a cosy, intimate feel to your party. I love MADE.com’s outdoor furniture; it boasts some unique, ultra-stylish designs.

DINING OUT

Keeping guests well-fed and watered is your most important job as host. I usually provide the food, soft drinks and a large pitcher or two of Pimms but ask guests to BYOB. This takes some of the pressure – and cost – off you. A garden party might not be the best place to use your finest china, but you can still show-off your stylish side. Forgo the paper plates, and opt for functional melamine instead. Rice DK (from sistersguild.com) offers beautiful melamine tableware in chic floral prints. As for that pitcher of Pimms, you can’t go wrong with the Grace and Glory drinks dispenser. Made from glass, it has a tap for serving and will hold up to 8½ litres of your favourite cocktail. It’s the little details that will make your party one to remember. Just don’t forget the cocktail umbrellas! Sophie Allport Limited Pheasant printpicnic accessories, web: sophieallport.com

Drinks dispenser by Grace and Glory, web: graceandgloryhome.co.uk

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CITY | INTERIORS

Interior

NOTES A TOUCH OF ART

ANKOLE HORNS These horns are a sustainable bi-product of the beef industry, and by purchasing them directly from farmers, you can create revenue for the rural communities where income is limited. The horns are then hand-crafted into jewellery and homeware items in a small Ugandan workshop that currently employs over 25 staff.

Is it interior design or is it art? Channel some artistic licence for interior inspiration

PULLMAN EDITIONS designs striking original limited-edition posters that capture the enduring appeal of Art Deco. Their newly-commissioned posters feature glamorous winter sports and summer resorts around the world, as well as the world’s greatest historic automobiles. Evoking memories of holidays and special occasions, their modern take on the Art Deco classics provides an affordable way to decorate your home and also make super original gifts. There are over 100 designs available to view and buy online at www.pullmaneditions.com. Priced at £395 each.

Exclusive to Boniti, visit their showroom at Dunsdon Barn, West Littleton, (nr J18 M4) SN14 8JA. Tel: 01225 892200

MAISON D’OBJETS

STITCH BY STITCH An exhibition by this London based textile design company runs from 7 – 31 July at the One Two Five Gallery in Bath. Many beautiful textiles can be found and purchased. Here are hand woven Desi cushion covers in indigo wool, RRP £115, and one in red wool RRP £108, both measure 60 x 40 cms and were hand embroidered in Kutch, India. One Two Five Gallery, 4 Abbey Green, Bath, BA1 1NW. Open: Weds – Sun; 11am-5pm

THE BATH FRAMER

ORIGINAL ART ON A BUDGET

Exclusive to The Bath Framer, these vintage, limited edition magazine prints can be beautifully framed to create evocative pieces of wall art. Inspired and original, they will add interest to any home. A selection are available mounted at £50.

If you’re looking to buy original, affordable art online from talented independent artists, then visit Artgallery.co.uk which has a huge range of art listed according to your budget. The categories start from under £50. Shown here is Blue Hydrangea by Natalie Toplass, oil on canvas priced at £1500

The Bath Framer 7 Walcot Buildings London Road Bath, BA1 6AD Tel: 01225 920210

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This room set features bespoke oak table by Dan Askham made to order, prices start at £325. Original artworks by Melanie Deegan (horse head, £525) and Andrea Wright (nude and abstract £295 - £ 625), votive holders in concrete by Warwick Borsay, £20, and cushions from Lux and Bloom, £75 -£150. All artists and makers are west country based and are only available at VERVE Living, 15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath, BA1 6AD

Artgallery.co.uk

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SECRET OASIS IN HEART OF THE CITY We take a tour round one of Bath’s best equipped homes, set in a superb secluded spot close to the city centre

ake a look at this über modern, über stylish contemporary house and see if you can place it on the Bath landscape. I only recognised it by its distinctive green living roof that I have glimpsed from round a corner while scurrying past on my daily city ramblings. Alexander House is very cleverly tucked away in surprisingly quiet grounds not far from the River Avon, close to the very heart of Bath. You could be picking up some organic rocket and a bottle of prosecco from Waitrose within just a 15 minute stroll of the house. What’s more, the property has its own parking and – most coveted in our historic city – a double garage too. In fact Alexander House ticks pretty much every box for what you’d want in a modern home. Indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room? Check. Home cinema and a games room? Check. Loads of space for entertaining family and friends? Check. The approach to the property is via a cul-de-sac off London Road. Electronic gates quietly allow access to extensive grounds. Surrounding mature trees really help make this feel like an oasis of green. Beyond the trees on the river side are Kensington Meadows, an open space enjoyed by many locals. The house was designed in conjunction with two architectural practices by the current owner who wanted to create a large home with a 96 TheBATHMagazine

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small carbon footprint. This was achieved in a number of ways, beginning with the demolition of an old building on the site, its Bath stone recycled into the new build. The living roof, planted with low maintenance sedum, will help keep the house cool in summer and warm in winter and can reduce surface run-off rainwater, which is especially useful during the heavy downpours we now experience. The house has also been divided into two distinct areas, with a heat recovery system that is separate for the lower part of the home, which could be described as the pleasure zone. The first floor is dedicated to the needs of family life. The living rooms and kitchen flow through each other and all are generously proportioned. There’s a fabulously sleek kitchen with a central island, with built-in features including no fewer than four ovens (steam, main, warming and microwave), a superb large larder fridge, a Nespresso coffee machine, clever recycling units and the option to use gas ringed or induction hobs, full length glass sliding doors open easily out onto the balcony overlooking the garden which is perfect for grabbing a coffee in the morning sun. There’s an indoor breakfast bar for chillier mornings. The drawing room is pretty impressive with the sunlight bouncing off the polished floor through more floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and windows, which look out into the trees

DESIGN FOR MODERN LIVING: main picture, Alexander House is tucked away near the River Avon, just a few yards from one of Bath’s busiest thoroughfare

and down into the gardens. At the touch of a button a feature gas fire springs into life and a wall containing a tropical fish tank divides the sitting room from the dining room. The house has six bedrooms with three en suites and a family bathroom. Everywhere is immaculately designed and presented, like a top city hotel with every facility a five star establishment would offer. You can just picture Diptyque candles looking very fine in the bathrooms, alongside rolls of freshly laundered towels. And like a hotel there’s a discreet laundry chute straight down to the laundry room. And so down to the pleasure zone. There’s a tranquil pool, 25ft 9 long and the pool room has sliding doors out to

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BATH | PROPERTY

the terrace. Next door are the sauna and steam room, while the gym is a gentle reminder through the glass that you ought to go and burn some calories. Kids of all ages will love the games room, so large that there’s space for table football, a ping pong table and a billiards table. Thoughtfully a second kitchen and bar has been provided, either for the youngsters’ pizza and mocktail sleepovers, or for the adults’ Mexican nights with fajitas and cocktails. There’s also a snug for when it’s just a couple of you and you want to cosy up. Although you could be at the Odeon multi-plex within a half hour’s walk, there’s no need to go out when you’ve got your own home cinema. This one is complete with red curtained walls and red authentic tip-up cinema seats that have been re-upholstered. A pair of cloakrooms complete this indoor playground. So, we’ve done rest and play. Now to look at the work spaces. There’s a handy

NATURAL LIGHT: clockwise from top, the kitchen opens out onto a balcony, sunlight pours through the big windows in the drawing room, the indoor swimming pool, and the master bedroom suite

store for whatever equipment your business might require, plus that double garage. There’s a study on the ground floor – handy if a parent is trying to write a paper or go through emails while the kids are running riot in the background. But if you want real concentration and peace and quiet, head on up to the top of the house, where, reached by a flight of stairs, is an office, a real captain’s nest. Up here on the second floor, separate from the rest of the house, you feel you’re on top of the world, with an eye on your own enclosed kingdom, via the big panoramic windows. As the house is fitted with surround sound throughout, the theatrical possibilities for high drama are endless. Alexander House is a very special home for someone who has an eye for design, a conscience concerned with climate change and a heart for making family and friends happy. n

FACT FILE ■ Location: Alexander House, Percy Place, Bath ■ Special features: Environmentally friendly, gated property, extensive gardens, double garage, spa complex and gym, home cinema, CCTV surveillance system, balcony, heat recovery system, central vacuum system ■ Accommodation: six bedrooms, three en suite, one family bathroom, drawing room, two kitchens, dining room, laundry, two studies, bar ■ Floorspace: 6,500 sq feet ■ Guide price: £2.95m ■ Agents: Cobb Farr, tel: 01225 333332 and Knight Frank: 01255 325999

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KITCHEN CASE STUDY

FOR A KITCHEN THAT HAS THE WOW FACTOR WHAT THE CLIENTS SAY ABOUT KELLY-MARIE HICKS AT HOMEMAKER BATH 'I wanted the wow factor kitchen and Kelly gave me that! My kitchen is amazing!' ‘One of the many great things about Kelly is that she takes the stress out of the whole process. She takes care of EVERYTHING and the quality is OUTSTANDING from the design through to post installation. Her installation team offer a really high quality service;the quality of the finish is excellent and they clean up after themselves! I could not fault them. Kelly is so great to work with and was the only designer out of many that really listened to my ideas, and translated them into a beautiful, stylish kitchen that is a joy to use. She has an unerring eye for style and design coupled with infinite patience. I have no hesitation in recommended Kelly!’ A ★★★★★ design service - Helen, Bath

HOMEMAKER,

BEFORE

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

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GARDEN | NOTES

WIZARDS OF OZ Open a tinny and start planting Australian to go with a barbecue summer, says Jane Moore hopefully

ver since I started studying horticulture it’s always amazed me what a wealth – a world even – of plants we can grow in our tiny corner of the globe. When you first begin in gardening it’s enough to learn getting your head around the names of plants let alone learning where they come from. Yet once you start to think about where these plants grow naturally and what sorts of conditions they like it can inform your gardening success no end. Plus it’s this world of plants that connects gardeners across the globe as I was reminded only the other day when an Aussie journalist came to look around the Priory garden. Chris, a Kiwi by birth but a naturalized Australian, having lived in Sydney for 30 years, was here doing features on Jane Austen, Capability Brown and various other things for Australian Homes and Gardens magazine. “We love all things historical,” said Chris as we sauntered around in the sunshine. “Period houses and classical English gardens are hugely popular probably because they are so very different to the Australian style.” Australia itself has a brutally dry and arid climate in places, while other areas are much lusher and damper – home to the tree ferns we Brits classically associate with Australia, especially Dicksonia. 102 TheBATHMagazine

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“Our style is more laid back, scrubby, shrubby and dry with no lawns or lush foliage unless you’re in the damper parts of the country,” says Chris. “It’s a challenging environment for plants and they have to be tough to thrive.” That means there are rather a lot of useful, not to mention dramatic, plants for us to play with in our gardens. Plants that are particularly robust and drought tolerant once they’ve got their roots down into the ground. Besides the tree fern, you’ll be familiar with a few more, particularly the blue leaves and flaky bark of eucalyptus trees, strappy leafed phormiums in all colours of the rainbow and the dainty leaves of a million varieties of pittosporum. Ah, but pittosporum are from New Zealand, I hear you muttering, and so they are or more precisely they are probably Gondwanan in origin; that vast continent that predates Australasia and eastern Asia and indeed some parts of Africa. So please let’s not split hairs. Less familiar is the Southern beech or nothofagus, which is too big for most of our gardens but possibly one of the most beautiful trees I know and one of the most ancient, fossilised remains having been found in the Antarctic. More manageable are the lovely bottlebrush bushes, the pretty Grevillea and my personal spiky plant of choice the silver astelia, which seems a good place to start our plant profiles. Astelia chathamica is most widely

available, sometimes sold as the variety Silver Spear, though knowledgeable growers say this is one and the same, with quite a lot of variability. It forms large clumps of long, arching, silver sword-like leaves. They are ridged, with a sharp definite point, and have a white underside. Some people find it doesn’t get through the winter but I’ve never had any trouble at The Priory where it has withstood temperatures between minus 5C and minus 10C and coped with snow several times. You could always grow it in a pot and overwinter it in a cold greenhouse or conservatory. Callistemon, or bottlebrushes, make great garden plants with spectacular flowers for a sheltered sunny spot. They are mostly found in the more temperate regions of Australia, especially along the east coast and can tolerate or even thrive in damp conditions, yet most are very hardy and will tolerate drought and need little maintenance. They grow well in a wide variety of soils, but need full sun to produce the best flowers. We have two at The Priory – a red and a yellow – both in warm sheltered spots and both doing very well in their third and fifth years. So far, so good . . . Dicksonia is the most abundant tree fern in South Eastern Australia. It grows happily in acid, neutral and alkaline soils in semi-shade. The key is that it strongly resents drought or dryness at the roots, and does best in moist soil, rich in leafy organic matter and heavily and regularly mulched and watered. In

GLOBAL THINKING: main picture, the popular tree fern, Dicksonia Opposite page, left to right, astelia Silver Spear, the red flowered bottlebrush bush and the tightly furled buds of a tree fern

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GARDEN | NOTES

winter it is best to wrap the trunk and leave old fronds on the plant in order to protect the trunk from cold and desiccation. Under plant with other ferns and woodland plants for a cloud forest corner. Much as I love eucalyptus trees they are not for the faint-hearted as they tend to get big and are notoriously brittle. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also not easy to plant in a classic garden and look better with modern houses with lots of glass and strong lines. Having said all that smaller specimens look great in pots and, if you want to plant one in the ground, you can always coppice it for bigger, bluer leaves. My favourites are E. gunnii, the classic

eucalyptus, which gets big but with beautiful bark and the Snow Gum which is smaller with patchwork bark and grey-green leaves. Grevillea is one of those little known plants which is pretty without being a showstopper. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s evergreen which is always a plus, with a loose, spreading, graceful habit, but a well behaved one at only a metre or so tall. It looks rather like rosemary with long deep green leaves but the flowers are a rich rose-red, strangely sticky and sort of curled like a spring and are borne in dense clusters on the tips of the branches from late winter through to late summer. These would definitely provide a talking point for a well drained, sheltered spot.

My garden would be sadly lacking without a handful of pittosporum providing evergreen interest, some lovely dainty variegated foliage and the best clipped purple ball I know in the form of Tom Thumb. Use this and the aptly named Golf Ball instead of box for a change and the taller growing shrubs such as Silver Queen are unbeatable for evergreen structure as well as making a brilliant backdrop to flowering herbaceous and roses. n Jane Moore is the award-winning gardening columnist and head gardener at the Bath Priory Hotel. She also writes for the Telegraph and can be followed on Twitter @janethegardener.

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the directory Electricians

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PROPERTY | HOMEPAGE

avendish Crescent was designed by John Pinch for builder William Broom between 1817 and 1830. It comprised 11 houses of equal size and today still retains its architectural uniformity which is enhanced by canopied front entrances and ornate iron first floor balconies. During the 20th century most of the houses were divided to create apartments, leaving Number 2 as a rare opportunity to acquire a complete Grade II listed town house. There are spectacular views over the Approach Golf Course and the city beyond. The extremely elegant and well proportioned accommodation is laid out over five floors and comprises: Five double bedrooms, four of which are en suite and there is an additional shower room and cloakroom. Drawing room and withdrawing room. Handmade kitchen leading to dining room. Lower ground floor which is ideal as a self contained apartment or home office. To the rear, there are very pretty walled, paved gardens with an attractive terrace for dining as well as access to the south facing communal gardens. Residents’ parking is in place. This is a wonderfully stylish property in a Georgian terrace which is off the tourist track and viewing is a must. Contact agents Pritchards for further details.

2 CAVENDISH CRESCENT BATH • Complete Georgian Townhouse • Five bedrooms • Four en suite bath/shower rooms & additional shower room • Self contained lower ground floor • Walled rear garden & south facing communal gardens • Residents parking

Price: £2,650,000 Pritchards, 11 Quiet Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 466225

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North Road A rare opportunity to purchase a 4 bedroom detached family home which is being offered for sale for the first time since being built. The property benefits from gas central heating, UPVc double glazing, double garage and scope to extend (subject to the necessary permissions). • 4 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, bathroom & cloakroom • Gardens to side and rear • Large undercroft/storage room. Utility area (rear section of garage) • Double garage & driveway parking • Less than a mile from the city centre • Floor area approximately: 1917 sq ft/178 sq m • EPC rating D

Guide Price: £925,000

Laverton A handsome double fronted GII Listed detached house commanding wonderful countryside views. Dating back to the 17th Century, retaining a wealth of charm & character with large, particularly beautiful gardens. • 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en suite) & further en suite shower room • Sitting room, dining room, study, kitchen & breakfast room • Extensive cellarage • Double garage & driveway parking • Beautiful large, south facing gardens bordering onto Duchy of Cornwall farmland (lower section currently rented from the Duchy) • Currently run as an established Bed & Breakfast • Internal area including garage: 3599 sq ft/334 sq m

Guide Price: £925,000 11 Quiet Street, Bath BA1 2LB

Tel: 01225 466 225

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Hilperton A well presented 4 bedroom detached bungalow set in an elevated rural position with approximately 3.56 acres of gardens, grounds & paddocks as well as a menage and a detached barn (housing 3 stables). • 4 bedrooms, sitting room, family room with pleasant outlook • Bathroom, shower room, utility and loft room/office • Set in grounds of approximately 3.56 acres. Menage • EPC rating D • Int. area of house approx. 1881 sq ft/174.8 sq m • Barn floor area approx. 1701 sq ft/158 sq m

Guide Price: £695,000

Camerton A charming spacious double fronted Grade II Listed detached period house dating back to the 1700’s and standing in large attractive mature gardens enjoying wonderful open country views. On the market for the first time in nearly 40 years. • 4 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/diner • Ground floor bathroom, 1st floor cloakroom • Large garage & substantial parking • Impressive gardens with well stocked vegetable patch • Internal floor area approximately: 3087 sq ft/287 sq m • Plenty of storage throughout including a large easily accessible attic space

Guide Price: £650,000 11 Quiet Street, Bath BA1 2LB

Tel: 01225 466 225

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THINKING PROPERTY Peter Greatorex, managing director of The apartment Company

Buyers are choosing their heart over budget

Crafting beautiful homes In and around Bath

01225 79115 5

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hen it comes to keeping within a strict budget and ‘thinking with your head’, it seems that we throw the rule book out the window when we are looking to buy a property. Two recent pieces of research confirm our findings that when it comes to buying a property, buyers are thinking with their hearts and are willing to pay over and above the asking price to secure the property of their dreams. One of the many factors fuelling this trend is the lack of properties on the market and the abundance of buyers. One of the pieces of research was undertaken by the property portal Zoopla, Lawrence Hall, a spokesman for property website, said: “Buying a property is a significant financial commitment, and all house hunters want to find a home that they love, so it's understandably a process often fraught with emotion. In a competitive property market where stock is low, demand is high, prices are rising and interest rates are at a historical low, it's hardly surprising to see original budget levels creeping up.” We would never encourage any buyer to spend over their budget, a home is a financial commitment and you need to look at the long-term pressure of paying your mortgage. It is essential that you seek advice from a mortgage provider before you look to commit to purchasing a property so you know your figures and maximum budget. Yet, in a study commissioned by Online Mortgage Advisor it found that more than half of the 2000 homebuyers questioned (who had purchased a property within the last 12 months) had spent at least 10% more than they had initially intended. So why are buyers wishing to spend more? The most common reason is that they simply fell in love with a property. We are certainly seeing that buyers in Bath are looking at buying a property for the future, where in the past they may have been thinking of the next step on the ladder. This focus on the long-term means that buyers are seeking a property that will provide them with what they need for many years to come, for example, the space they need for when they start to have a family. It is therefore, essential that your home appeals to buyers hearts and is beautifully presented. We are lucky that our properties in Bath are full of period features, spacious rooms, and attractive locations. According to the research key features that buyers are seeking are fireplaces, nice neighbours, beautiful décor and original features. With our desire for traditional values, we long to know our neighbours and feel part of the community in which we live. As such, It is important that you inform your estate agent, not just about your property but also your neighbours and what is happening in your local community. We operate differently when it comes to valuing a property for sale a sale price is not an exact figure, which is why we offer our vendors a price range strategy. This strategy alone is not effective without the work of our experienced negotiators, it is important to us to build a relationship with each vendor to understand their situation and needs moving forward, from this we are able to negotiate the best possible price for them and their property. If you are looking to achieve the best possible purchase price for your apartment it is essential that you present every area of your home beautifully, not forgetting your outside or communal spaces. For advice and guidance on selling your home, or if you are looking to find an apartment in Bath, use the specialist agent with specific expertise in the local apartment market, The Apartment Company. Tel: 01225 471144

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Wellow Farmhouse, Bath

ÂŁ3750.00pcm

Beautifully and lovingly restored farm house located in the heart of Wellow, a Hamlet of fine and handsome properties with a most definite and established community spirit. This property comprises four bedrooms and four receptions with the Harvey Jones kitchen being the focal area of this home. Stylish and contemporary dĂŠcor flows through the entire property of which is in a pristine condition. The landscaped gardens can be enjoyed by all the family with an element of fun being the sunken trampoline. Considerate amount of parking completes this enviable property. EPC E Available 27 August 2016

Bath Office

Lettings 01225 458546 | Sales. 01225 459817

Hamptons Letting July.indd 1

22/06/2016 13:18

Longmead Terrace, Riverside Arranged over four floors, this light and contemporary 3 bedroom new-build property in the popular Riverside development is presented in the most immaculate condition, creating a wonderful home. Located a short level walk from Bath city centre, the property enjoys convenient access to Bath Spa Train Station and Bristol.

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

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NASH & CO

Newbridge Hill, Bath

£875,000 Morris Lane, Batheaston

● Over 2,600 square feet • Victorian, 6 bed, house ● 3 reception rooms • A wealth of period features ● en-suite master bedroom • Ornate and level rear gardens ● Off-street parking

A substantial Victorian semi-detached family house located in the highly desirable residential area of Newbridge on the North West side of the world heritage city of Bath. This property has been lovingly restored by the present owners and includes many of its original features including some attractive exterior wall mouldings at the front of the house, which are unique to the house and the adjoining semi. Accommodation includes: Large and open plan living room and reception area, dining room, breakfast room, kitchen, 5 double bedrooms, 1 large single bedroom, two bathrooms, and en-suite. The property also benefits from family sized rear garden and off-street parking to the front.

Yomede Park, Newbridge

● 5 bedroom, detached, family home ● Beautiful, large and well-kept garden ● Large sitting room with sliding doors to rear sun deck ● Fantastic extended kitchen/diner ● Off-street parking

A beautifully presented and spacious detached family home on Morris Lane. Offering over 1800 square feet of versatile accommodation comprised of: 3 double bedrooms with two slightly smaller rooms in the loft, en-suite, large bright and airy living room, extended modern kitchen/diner, utility room, family bathroom, and office. One of the best features of the property is the extensive - and mainly level - rear garden which benefits further from a raised sun deck at the back of the house, which offers beautiful rural views towards Bathford. The front of the house offers ample parking space, and the generous front garden space could be further landscaped.

£750,000 Fairfield Ave, Fairfield Park £449,950

● Colonial style detached residence with views towards Newton St. Loe ● Generous and versatile accommodation ● 4 Bedrooms ● South facing elevated position ● Off-street parking for several cars

Tucked away in a quiet secluded cul-de-sac with lovely views, this beautifully presented 1920’s, 4 bedroom detached property offers generous accommodation over two floors. The house has two en -suite shower rooms and a family bathroom. The en suite master bedroom has a dressing room and patio doors to a balcony the width of the room overlooking the rear garden. Other accommodation includes two light and airy reception rooms with south facing bay windows. The kitchen has a partially glazed roof with French doors opening on to the garden, there is also a separate utility room. A spacious hallway looks up on to a galleried landing providing access to the master bedroom. There are large established gardens to the front and rear with flowering and fruit trees.

enquiries@nashandcobath.co.uk 2 Princes Buildings, George Street, Bath, BA1 2ED

£750,000

● 1960s, semi-detached property ● 4 bedrooms: 3 doubles (1 with en-suite) and a single ● Garden to the rear ● No chain ● Front to back living room ● Popular Fairfield Park location

This 1960s, four bedroom, semi-detached property is perfect for families looking to upsize or upgrade. The house offers almost 1,200 square foot of accommodation including: front to back living room, study, kitchen, utility area, 3 double bedrooms (one of which has an en-suite), single bedroom, and family bathroom. Externally, there are front and rear gardens whilst there is also a detached garage with further parking bay. The house is currently being rented and the tenants are moving on so the property is to be offered without any onward chain. Fairfield Park is located in a popular residential position within close proximity of Bath city centre. A large selection of shops, schools, bus services and other facilities can be found within reach.

www.nashandcobath.co.uk Tel: 01225 444 800

.co.uk

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Stanton Drew, Bristol

Guide Price £750,000

A recently completed, sleek, executive detached family home set in a generous plot. The property offers beautifully balanced, high quality accommodation spread over three floors in a quiet, desirable location. • Three Reception Rooms • Five Double Bedrooms • Two Bathrooms & Two En-Suites • High Quality Kitchen & Utility Room • Detached Garage, Parking & Gardens • 3044 Sq Ft of Accommodation

Combe Park, Bath

Guide Price £400,000

A stunning first floor Victorian apartment found in the desirable location of Combe Park, to the west of Bath city centre. Set within a large semi-detached house the apartment offers well proportioned, light, modern accommodation throughout. • Large Living Room • High Specification Kitchen • Two Double Bedrooms • Modern Bathroom • 1029 Sq Ft of Accommodation • EPC Rating E

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Bear Flat Entry Hill Park, BA2 ÂŁ595,000

A fabulous detached property with double garage. The sitting room occupies the front of the property with a full width window. An opening leads into an exceptional garden room with vaulted ceiling. The kitchen/ dining room features a German kitchen. The utility leads from the kitchen. The first floor master suite offers an en-suite shower room plus a dressing room. There are two further bedrooms plus a bathroom suite. The gardens wrap around the property. Energy Efficiency Rating: B

Camden Road Chilton Road, BA1 ÂŁ550,000

A charming, three bedroom period terraced house tucked away down a pedestrian lane at the end of the popular Chilton Road. Recently refurbished to a high standard in an excellent Camden location. To the front of the property is a patio area with a decked seating platform and fantastic views towards Bath city centre and Bath Abbey. Steps take you down to a further garden area with lawn and sizeable garden shed.On street parking available on Chilton Road and Upper East Hayes. Energy Efficiency Rating: Awaiting

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Bath Central Manor Close, BA2 £875,000

A terrace of three individual cottages being sold together as one single freehold. Situated in the heart of Freshford Village the cottages are all well-presented throughout. Currently used as holiday lets the homes offer spacious accommodation across two floors. Gas central heating and two parking spaces each. Energy Efficiency Rating: D

Newbridge Bellifants, BA2 £725,000

On the edge of Farmborough village, and with rural views to three sides, this detached home has space to spare! Four double bedrooms (master with en-suite,walk-in wardrobe and balcony), 37’2 by 13’7 kitchen/dining/living room, snug, office, two garages and impressive gardens. Absolutely stunning! Energy Efficiency Rating: E

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Sold subject to contract

Warminster Road, Bathampton • 3 bedroom, detached property • Additional bedroom 4/garden room • Generous outdoor space • Sought-after location close to Bath • Large garage and parking for 3 vehicles • Early viewing essential • Asking price: £535,000

he hottest properties on the market in Bath right now aren’t necessarily classic Georgian homes. Instead buyers are snapping up the chance to buy good quality detached bungalows in the city. In recent weeks Mark Naylor have sold four bungalows incredibly quickly – one on Warminster Road in Bathampton within 48 hours of going on the market. The others were at Wellsway, Bloomfield Road and Bathampton, all fetching prices in excess of £500,000. So what is the appeal of the bungalow to current buyers? Generally speaking you can get more for your money, in that a detached bungalow has a larger property footprint than traditional terraced or semi detached homes. A wrap-around garden sets the house back from the kerbside, gives the family more open space and quite often more privacy too. These four properties also all have parking, a much sought after asset in Bath, and all but one have a garage too. Well-built single storey homes appeal to modern families. These properties generally have large rooms and flexible space that can be adapted according to whether more bedrooms, reception rooms, or bathrooms are desired. Quite often bungalows are blessed with lots of natural light and lend themselves to cool, contemporary furniture and fittings. What’s more, a bungalow isn’t generally listed, so owners have more freedom to make structural changes to the property. Mark Naylor said: “Savvy buyers realise that good quality, detached bungalows are a good, practical purchase. They offer larger than average square foot of accommodation and good sized gardens with space for all that families require, from outdoor entertaining to the kids’ trampoline, or for Mum and Dad’s hot tub.”

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

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k Mar r o l y a N

local • trusted • independent

Carlingcott

Price Guide £525,000

The 19th century house offers more than meets the eye, with an attached ground floor annexe and a separate coach house, which has potential for future use as a workshop, office or as holiday accommodation (subject to the necessary consents). • Beautiful country home • Separate coach house

☎ 01225 422 224

• 3 double bedrooms • Driveway parking

• Ground floor annexe • Attractive village location

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Belmont

Guide Price £1,750,000

Belmont is a handsome Grade II Listed terrace. The situation is extremely popular due to its elevation on the high pavement of Lansdown Road, a short walk from Milsom Street. This desirable location close to Bath’s most famous landmarks including The Circus and The Assembly Rooms is also popular due to its far reaching views. The beautifully proportioned rooms retain fine period detail including a stunning full height bay window in the first floor drawing room. A further feature is the ground floor kitchen opening into the dining area leading out to the beautiful garden. EPC: Listed

• • • • • •

Bath Office

Sales. 01225 459817 | Lettings. 01225 458546

5 Bedrooms 3 Reception Rooms 4 Bathrooms Ground Floor Kitchen Walled Garden Wonderful Far Reaching Views

Rivers Street Mews

Guide Price £895,000

Located in a quiet gated courtyard is a stunning Grade II Listed Mews House. Each of the three bedrooms are complemented by en-suite facilities with the benefit of kitchen/dining room, first floor reception room, fantastic terrace, studio and parking, this fine house makes an ideal “Lock & Leave”. EPC: Listed

Alfred Street

Guide Price £550,000

This smart and contemporary two bedroom apartment offers stylish accommodation within a Grade II Listed Georgian terrace. Located in prime central Bath, this apartment has no onward chain and would make an ideal home, second home or rental investment. EPC: Listed

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THE CHEQUERS, Box

ÂŁ875,000

The Chequers is a historically significant and characterful property that occupies a prominent position right in the heart of the charming Wiltshire village of Box, close to the city of Bath. The earliest part of the property is thought to date back to Tudor times, but reputedly there has been an inn on the site as far back as the 13th century. Offering five bedrooms with a self-contained one bedroom apartment and a self-contained studio. Rear garden. EPC Rating: E

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Selling & Letting Bath’s finest apartments

Northanger Court Modern building • Ground floor apartment • Three bedrooms Communal garden • Lift • Approx 965 Sq Ft

OIEO £595,000 •

Family bathroom & en suite

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Allocated undercover parking

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This delightful three bedroom apartment is sure to please. Situated on the ground floor of this secure well organised building it offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy City living. Comprising: sitting room, kitchen with dining area, master bedroom with en suite, two further bedrooms and a family bathroom. The sitting room and all the remaining rooms have pretty views. The communal garden is perfect for outside relaxing and leads down to the river. There is a secure communal garage with a private space for this apartment. Close to all the amenities, shopping and entertainment this property should not be missed! Open day: Saturday 25th June. Call to book your appointment.

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Lansdown House

OIEO £540,000

Victorian Building • Ground Floor • Two double bedrooms • South facing private terrace • Communal garden • Allocated parking • Easy access to M4 motorway • Approx 743 Sq ft Nestled on the Northern slopes of Bath is this delightful two bedroom garden apartment with a stunning private terrace. The property benefits from a South facing aspect and enjoys plenty of light, comprising; large drawing room with fireplace housing a working gas fire, two good sized double bedrooms one leading to the terrace, kitchen and a bathroom. The Terrace is accessed via french windows from the drawing room and steps from here lead into a beautiful mature and well maintained communal garden. The property also boasts two allocated parking spaces. We would highly recommend viewing as these apartments are hard to find.

Russell Street

OIEO £430,000

Grade II • Georgian • Central location • Third floor • Well presented building • Gas central heating • Residents parking permit • Approx 714 Sq ft A beautifully presented two bedroom Georgian apartment located in a prime position in central Bath close to the Assembly Rooms and The Circus. The property has a delightful bright sitting room with a charming outlook, a dine in kitchen with room for a table, two good sized double bedrooms one with an en suite and a family bathroom. A charming apartment with excellent space that we believe will have strong appeal to buyers. Close to all the amenities, restaurants and historic attractions, viewing is highly recommended – one not to miss.

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Paragon

AY M IN LD SO

Selling & Letting Bath’s finest apartments

OIEO £290,000 Henrietta Street

OIEO £375,000 Dale House

OIEO £295,000

Grade I Listed Lower ground floor One bedroom, Open plan • Excellent location • Approx. 615 Sq Ft

Grade I Listed Georgian apartment First floor Two Period property Second floor apartment • Two double bedrooms • Well presented • City Centre • double bedrooms • Open plan kitchen/sitting room • Approx 744 Sq Ft Contemporary • Garage • Approx 735 Sq Ft

Bright and contemporary one bedroom apartment

Two bedroom first floor apartment in fabulous location

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Modern apartment enjoying superb countryside views

•

JU IN LD SO

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Albion Place

OIEO £230,000 Old Orchard Street OIEO £250,000 Northanger Court

OIEO £540,000

Georgian style First Floor apartment One bedroom • Well presented • Fabulous views • Approx 410 Sq Ft

Period property Ground floor One bedroom Newly refurbished • Central location • Communal courtyard • Approx 354 Sq ft

Modern building Second floor apartment • Three bedrooms • Sitting room with dining area • Allocated garage parking • Communal Garden • Lift • Approx 950 Sq Ft

A modern stylish one bedroom apartment with secure parking

Centrally located one bedroom apartment

Spacious second floor apartment with views

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E N

N SO

SO LD

JU N IN SO LD St Patricks Court

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OIEO £335,000 Newbridge Road

OIEO £185,000 Widcombe Crescent OIEO £300,000

Modern building • Third floor apartment • Two double bedrooms • South facing balcony • Short walk from City • Garage • Visitors parking • Approx 742 Sq ft • Unfurnished

Victorian property • First floor apartment • Spacious sitting room • Separate kitchen • Double bedroom • Period features • Approx 352 Sq Ft

Georgian apartment • Grade I listed • Second floor, Fabulous views • Large sitting room • Immaculately presented

Quiet and well located apartment with stunning balcony

First floor double bedroom apartment

One bedroom apartment with stunning views over Bath

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LE T

EW N

LE T Portland Place

£1,550 pcm Cavendish Crescent

£1,295 pcm Marlborough Buildings £1,250 pcm Georgian • Unfurnished • Two bedrooms • Parking Space Zone 7 • Grade II listed • Council Tax Band C

Conveniently situated and spacious three double bedroom Georgian apartment.

Impressive luxury Two bedroom Garden Apartment

Two bedroom apartment adjacent to the famous Royal Crescent.

T LE

LE London Street

Georgian • Furnished • Two double bedrooms • Communal vault, Courtyard area • Council Tax Band D • No pets • Agency fees £420 inc vat • Available Aug 9th 2016

Georgian • Furnished • Three bedrooms • Spacious accommodation • Period apartment • Georgian apartment • Gas heating • Council Tax Band: D

£1,200 pcm Southgate House

£1,150 pcm Kingston Road

£1,350 pcm

Period property • Unfurnished • Three Double Bedrooms • New Fitted Kitche • New Bathroom and Shower Room • Council Tax Band: B

Two bedroom, furnished apartment over three levels with roof terrace.

Stylish apartment is only a 5 minute walk from Bath Spa railway station.

Newly renovated three bedroom courtyard apartment.

£1,150 pcm Weston Lodge

EW N Walcot Parade

Modern building • Unfurnished • Two Bedrooms, Open Plan Sitting Room/Kitchen • Maintained Communal Outdoor Landscaped Garden • Council Tax Band: C

NL EW T

Period property • Furnished • Two Double Bedrooms • Decked Roof Terrace • Permit Parking • Council Tax Band: C

£1,100 pcm Druids Garth

£1,100 pcm

Grade II listed • Two bedrooms • Allocated covered parking • No pets • Agency Fees £420 inc VAT • Council Tax Band C • Available 8th June 2016

Georgian • Unfurnished • Two Double Bedrooms, Allocated Parking Space • No pets, Maintained Communal Gardens • Council Tax Band: D • Agency Fees £420 inc VAT • Available Now

Period property • Unfurnished • Two Bedrooms, Fabulous Views • Well maintained Communal Gardens • Agency Fees £420 inc VAT • Council Tax Band: C • Available Now

A spacious and well-proportioned apartment with fabulous views towards Bath.

Nestled in the quaint village of Weston, is this beautiful Georgian House.

Located in the highly desirable Bathampton village, with easy access to the City.

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Savills Bath Edgar House, 17 George Street, Bath BA1 2EN

01225 282979 bath@savills.com

nTheMarket.com

FOR SALE

A UNIQUE COMBINATION OF TWO GRADE I LISTED CRESCENT HOUSES SITUATED AT THE HEART OF AN ICONIC ADDRESS LANSDOWN CRESCENT, BATH In all approx 14,500 sq ft lateral accommodation of magnificent proportions and many original architectural features spanning two houses including a double reception room, beautiful dining room, library, double height gallery, kitchen/breakfast room, 5 bedrooms, numerous basement rooms, store rooms and vaults ◆ Two bedroom ground floor apartment, two bedroom basement apartment and a 2 bedroom coach house ◆ Breathtaking views over Bath and surrounding hills provides the feel of a ‘country house in town’ away from the city centre ◆ Extensive walled rear gardens ◆ Garaging and parking Price on application

Buying or selling this sum

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mmer. Talk to Savills.

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