The Bristol Magazine November 2014

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THE

ISSuE 125

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CITY OF BRISTOL

I

NOVEMBER 2014

MAGAZINE

www.thebristolmagazine.co.uk

THE DIFFERENCE ENGINE

MEET THE CITY’S STEAMPUNKS

DECADENT

STORIES IN THE SKY

WINTER STARGAZING

FASHION

AT A PROHIBITION PARTY

DARE TO DREAM

IN PARADISE HOTEL

P L U S M U C H M O R E I N T H E C I T Y ’ S F I N E S T M O N T H LY G U I D E T O L I F E A N D L I V I N G I N B R I S T O L

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NEW REFITTED SHOWROOM OPENING IN

NOVEMBER

FINAL CLEARANCE OF ALL PREVIOUS DISPLAY SOFAS & CABINET FURNITURE

AT 65-75% OFF

We are just past Clifton Down Shopping Centre 56/60, Whiteladies Rd, BS8 2PY Mon-Sat 9.30 - 5.30/Sun 12 - 5

TEL: 01173 292746

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CONTENTS.qxp_Layout 1 24/10/2014 12:43 Page 1

THE | CONTENTS

2014

NOVEMBER

54

34

56

58 14

ZEITGEIST

27 56

16

THE CITYIST

WIN

58

PEOPLE & PARTIES

60

Snapshots from the city’s social scene

20

BARTLEBY Secondary school liberation

27

FABULOUS FASHION Opulent fabrics, sky-high heels and a touch of 1920s glamour

34

FULL STEAM AHEAD

64

40

WINING & DINING WINTER RETREAT A charming haven in the Cotswolds

66

WHAT’S IN A NAME

68

CITY UPDATES News from the city’s businesses, people and communities

70

VIRTUAL GOLF Improve your swing whatever the weather at InPlay Golf

WHAT’S ON Theatre, music, dance, comedy and more

48

DAY TRIPPER

72

ART & EXHIBITIONS

Follow the North Bristol Art Trail 6 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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NOVEMBER 2014

Andrew Swift guides us on a picturesque country walk

100 HOMES ON SHOW A house on a hill in central Bristol

102 GARDENING How to plan a front garden

105 PROPERTY

75

THE

BRI ST OL twitter@thebristolmag

ON THE COVER

Health and beauty news, product reviews

thebristolmagazine.co.uk

FREELANCE MUM Crafting and making with baby

84

The best homes in and around Bristol

FIT AND FAB

Halloween treats for all to enjoy

On show in the city’s galleries this month

54 A VIBRANT PATH

96 OUT AND ABOUT

From the fashion shoot Taloulah wears: jacket £495 Joseph, shirt £195 and trousers £195 Winser London, shoes £695 Christian Louboutin and ring £195 Alexander McQueen, all at Harvey Nichols, Cabot Circus. Photographer: Andre Regini.

FAMILY FUN

Christmas shopping in Bath

50

Ayurveda at Atelier

Warrior monks in Temple Meads

BRISTOL AT WORK Theatrical milliner Ani Townsend

DREAMS COME TRUE

Foodie news and events

Steampunk creators and makers in Bristol

38

90 TREAT YOURSELF

New Bristol event company Paradise Hotel

My Bristol, the buzz & book of the month

18

WRITTEN IN THE STARS Discover Orion in the first of this series

Five things to do this month

MAGAZINE

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Clifton

Impressive family townhouse (4,647 sq ft) on the edge of Clifton College. 3 reception rooms, open plan kitchen / dining / sitting room. 6 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms (1 ensuite), laundry room, utility.

Gardens, garage. EPC rating E.

KnightFrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com 0117 3171999

Guide price: ÂŁ2,000,000

Clifton

An immaculate penthouse apartment with stunning panoramic views and a large roof terrace.

Large drawing room, kitchen / dining area. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, store. Garage, parking.

Guide price: ÂŁ1,000,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com 0117 3171999

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Sneyd Park

Substantial detached house (3,169 sq ft) in a quiet location. 4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room. 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Detached garage, ample parking. Large level and enclosed garden.

EPC rating E.

KnightFrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com 0117 3171999

Guide price: £1,750,000

Clifton

Elegant Grade II listed period townhouse with fine views and gardens. 4 reception rooms, kitchen, utility. 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Attractive gardens to the front and rear, cellar. Potential for parking at rear.

Guide price: £940,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com 0117 3171999

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Long Ashton

A detached house (6,379 sq ft) with views of open farmland. 6 reception rooms, kitchen / breakfast room, conservatory, cellar. 7 bedrooms, 4 bath/shower rooms, billiard room, studio. Courtyard parking, gardens, outbuildings. In all about 0.5 acres.

Guide price: £1,250,000

0117 3171999

Leigh Woods

Exciting opportunity to renovate a detached Lodge within the grounds of Burwalls. Currently with 2 reception rooms and 2 bedrooms. Planning submitted to extend to 3 bedrooms. Private gardens and parking.

Communal grounds. OPEN DAYS AVAILABLE. CALL FOR DETAILS. Guide price OIEO £400,000

0117 3171999

Abbots Leigh

A superb family home (3,025 sq ft) backing on to fields. 4 reception rooms, kitchen / breakfast room, utility. 5 bedrooms, 4 bath/shower rooms (3 ensuite). Front gardens, ample parking, beautiful rear gardens with countryside views. EPC rating D. Guide price: £845,000

0117 3171999

Churchill

A spacious detached property (2,632 sq ft) with a good range of outbuildings (1,689 sq ft) and paddock, located in the heart of Churchill. 3/4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room. 3/4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 ensuite). 3 stables, garaging, garden, paddock. In all about 1.15 acres.

Guide price: £795,000

0117 3171999

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Lympsham

A detached period farmhouse with holiday accommodation and outbuildings (4,916 sq ft). 3/4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, 5/6 bedrooms (2/3 ensuite). 3 self-contained holiday lets, stable block and paddock. In all about 2.54 acres. EPC rating E. Guide price: £925,000

0117 3171999

Chew Valley

Impressive barn conversion. 2 reception rooms, kitchen / dining room, utility room. 4 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms (2 ensuite). 2 bed annexe.

Gardens, garage, home office / gym with shower room. EPC rating C. Guide price: £895,000

0117 3171999

Blackford, Nr Wedmore

A rare opportunity to acquire this attractive mixed use former Victorian school house (4,636 sq ft) situated in 0.52 acres with the potential of re-development subject to the appropriate consents being obtained.

Price on Application

0117 3171999

East Brent

A charming newly built 3 bedroomed property. Open plan kitchen/ dining room/ drawing room, study/snug, ground floor master bedroom with ensuite bath room, utility room, WC. 2 first floor double bedrooms, 2 shower rooms (1 ensuite). Extensive parking, lawn gardens.

Guide price: £495,000

0117 3171999

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N

ovember is one of my favourite months. It brings with it the first bite of winter in the crisp chill air, the crunch of frost underfoot, and the city itself seems to transform as the darker evenings draw their mantle around it.

So this issue is dedicated to the alternative side of Bristol, revealing the wonderful world that comes out under cover of night. From the sumptuous yet surreal events staged by avantgarde Paradise Hotel, to the ingenious creations of the steampunk community and the decadent glamour of our prohibition fashion shoot, everything inside is a celebration of the unconventional.

And The North Bristol Art Trail, which takes place on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November, offers the perfect opportunity to meet some talented locals in person, and support artists and craftspeople in the community. It is also the ideal time to get a head start on your Christmas shopping, and pick up some unusual and personal gifts for your nearest and dearest.

As I’ve put my first issue together, I’ve really enjoyed finding out about so many inspirational Bristolians who give the city this defining, offbeat edge, and I’m looking forward to meeting many more over the months ahead.

So grab a hot toddy, snuggle down on the sofa, and enjoy reading about all the people and places that make our city great at this time of year.

JENNY HAYES ACTING 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.

The Bristol Magazine, Bristol and Exeter House, Lower Approach, Temple Meads, Bristol BS1 6QS Telephone: 0117 974 2800 www.thebristolmagazine.co.uk Disclaimer: Whilst every reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to The Bristol 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.

Acting Editor Email:

Jenny Hayes jenny@thebristolmagazine.co.uk

Deputy Editor Email:

Georgette McCready georgette@thebristolmagazine.co.uk

Production Manager Email:

Jeff Osborne production@thebristolmagazine.co.uk

Commercial Production Email:

Lorna Harrington lorna@thebristolmagazine.co.uk

Publisher Email:

Steve Miklos steve@thebristolmagazine.co.uk

Advertising Sales

Kathy Williams Sue Parker Liz Grey Tia Williams

For advertising enquiries please contact us on: 0117 974 2800 Email: sales@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Financial Director Email:

Jane Miklos jane@thebristolmagazine.co.uk

The Bristol Magazine is published by © MC Publishing Ltd 2014.

An independent publisher.

WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK

NOVEMBER 2014

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 13

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ZEITGEIST

The top

5

things to do in NOVEMBER Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum

Magic moments

L Fab fireworks Bristol Zoo’s Family Friendly Fireworks will be back on Tuesday 4, Wednesday 5 and Thursday 6 November, adding some sparkle to Bonfire Night without scaring your little ones or their animals with loud bangs. These specially designed nights include beautiful fireworks chosen to make the event one to remember, and the on-stage compere keeps the fun and games going for visitors of all ages. Hot drinks and wintery treats are also available to keep you warm while you watch the display. Tickets: £5.50–£6.75 for adults, £4–£5.25 for children. Advance booking is essential, visit: www.bristolzoo.org.uk or tel: 0117 974 7399.

et Westonbirt transport you into a fairy-tale world as you follow the mile long trail through trees that are illuminated against the night sky, highlighting their striking structures and beautiful boughs. As well as enjoying this display, families and young visitors have the chance to stroll alongside stilt-walkers, Jack Frost, the Christmas Fairy and a giant reindeer. Children can also meet Father Christmas and receive a gift. Adding to the Christmas spirit, carols will be performed by local choirs every evening. Enchanted Christmas takes place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings from 28 November – 21 December. Visit: www.forestry.gov.uk.

Must see This month Bristol welcomes one of the world’s most celebrated living composers, Philip Glass.

Featuring music from the first decades of his career, the Philip Glass Ensemble will perform this retrospective at Colston Hall on Saturday 8 November. From Friday 7 – Monday 10 November, Colston Hall, St George’s and Watershed will also play host to Glassfest, a weekend devoted to the man himself including songs, a solo recital and films. Tickets for Philip Glass Ensemble: Retrospective: £8.50 – £30 from the box office on tel: 0844 887 1500 or visit: www.colstonhall.org.

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Get festive On Thursday 13 November, Union J will be headlining The Mall’s Christmas Charity Concert in aid of The Grand Appeal, which supports patients and families at Bristol Children’s Hospital.

As well as performing their latest hits, the band will also be switching on The Mall’s Christmas lights.

At 8pm that same evening, the Winter Wonderland will also open with its beautiful ice rink and enchanted ice castle. But remember, if you want to see Santa arrive in his sleigh you’ll have to wait until 11am on Sunday 16 November. For more details visit: www.mallcribbs.com or tel: 0117 903 0303.

‘Kaleidoscope’ mineral formation © Bernardo Cesare

Natural beauty

Winter Wonderland at The Mall

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NOVEMBER 2014

Wildlife Photographer of the Year returns to Bristol Museum & Art Gallery from Saturday 29 November – Sunday 22 February. Now in its 50th year, this internationally renowned photography exhibition allows you to encounter the rich array of wildlife on our planet by showcasing extraordinary images that celebrate the drama, beauty and splendour of the natural world. Tickets: £3 adult, £2 children and concessions. For more information visit: www.bristolmuseums.org.uk or tel: 0117 922 3571.

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ist

THE CITY THE BUZZ War Horse at Bristol Hippodrome

My BRISTOL We ask co-director of The Wardrobe Theatre, Matthew Whittle, what he’s doing this month...

Tickets now on sale...

For the National Theatre’s internationallyacclaimed production of War Horse, based on the beloved novel by Michael Morpurgo that tells the story of Joey and his progress through World War I. It is a spectacular, moving and imaginative drama, heightened by stirring music and songs.

And, at its heart, the astonishing life-size puppets bring breathing, galloping, charging horses to life on stage. War Horse will be running at Bristol Hippodrome from Wednesday 14 January to Saturday 14 February. Tickets: £16.90 – £47.90 (plus transaction fee), available from the box office on tel: 0844 871 3012 or visit: www.atgtickets.com.

Festive giveaway alert!

Get your Christmas shopping done early this year with a trip to the Festive Gift Fair, which is returning to the NEC in Birmingham from Thursday 20 – Sunday 23 November. We’ve teamed up with the fair to offer two lucky readers the opportunity to each win a pair of tickets. To be in with a chance, just let us know: Which reindeer guides Santa’s sleigh?

Please email your answer to: elaine@theconsultancy.com, with ‘The Bristol Magazine Competition’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your name, address and contact details.

For more information about the fair, visit: www.festivegiftfair.co.uk, or call The Ticket Factory on tel: 0844 581 0808.

Terms and conditions: Competition closes13/11/14 and the winner will be chosen at random. Winner will be notified by email or post. By entering this competition, you are agreeing that your details may be used for marketing purposes.

16 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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NOVEMBER 2014

What brought you to Bristol?

I first came here as a spotty faced UWE student in 2004, but quickly fell in love with the place.

What are you reading?

I’m ploughing through Wolf Hall at the moment and yes, it’s as good as everyone says.

What’s on your MP3 player?

In between listening to more podcasts than is healthy, I tap my feet regularly to Tom Waits, Elbow, Metric, Slow Club and a lot of generic 90s indie-pop.

Which café or restaurant takes your fancy?

There are so many great independents in Bristol, though I’m looking for an excuse to go to the newly opened No Man’s Grace on Chandos Road if someone wants to take me?

theatre 3 or 4 times a week! Yikes. Really looking forward to another Sally Cookson masterclass in sheer joy with 101 Dalmatians at Tobacco Factory Theatre, and also Mmm Hmmm by Verity Standen at The Brewery 18 – 30 November. Totally unique.

Which museum or gallery will you be visiting?

I don't tend to go to many museums or galleries, but I always like to check out local art at one of Made In Bristol’s markets, galleries or shops like Paper Scissors Stone.

What hobbies or interests will you be pursuing?

Note to self: Must get better at the guitar.

What local event will you be attending?

Something on Bonfire Night that includes explosions and hot cider.

Favourite watering hole?

All the pubs along King Street are amazing, but there's nothing quite like a karaoke night at The Cat And Wheel!

Favourite local walk?

You can’t beat a stroll up and down the floating harbour stopping in on a few pubs on the way.

Evening in or evening out?

Out! Always out. There's always something amazing to see or do in Bristol.

Any projects/work in progress?

We are currently knee deep in our alternative Christmas show, the adult and darkly comic Muppets Die Hard.

Film or play? What will you be going to see?

I get to the cinema 3 or 4 times a year and the

For more info visit: thewardrobetheatre.com

BOOK OF THE MONTH...

Us by David Nicholls £20, hardback (Hodder & Stoughton) If, like me, you are a fan of David Nicholls’ One Day and the bittersweet story of Emma and Dexter, then the five years we’ve had to wait for his new novel, Us, was worth every minute. Douglas Petersen, a lovable and slightly eccentric doctor of biochemistry, is planning a final family summer holiday before his son Albie leaves home for college. Unexpectedly, his wife Connie tells him she’s leaving home too... This is their story, the story of a holiday – the Grand Tour of Europe – and also of a modern marriage. Is the marriage beyond salvation? Do the sights and sounds of Europe live up to expectation?

Does the holiday bring the family closer? I’m not going to spoil it for you, but take it from me once you’ve started on this journey you won’t put the book down.

Reviewed by Kathryn Atkins of Durdham Down Bookshop. visit: www.durdhamdownbooks.co.uk or tel: 0117 973 9095

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BRISTOL | SOCIETY

PEOPLE & PARTIES Snapshots from events, parties and launches in the city

George Ferguson presents 1st prize to Michael Fouracre and Tomaso the tuba

Patric Bulmer, Stuart Lees and Hajira Khushnoud (Bristol Water)

24 Hours in Bristol Harbourside Arts Centre The winners of this inspiring photography competition were announced at a prize-giving event on Friday 10 October. Over 10,000 photographs were taken during the single 24 hour competition day, and 800 stunning images were entered. There were 80 prize-winners, 48 runners up and a number of highly commended images, which can be seen at the exhibition, plus a giant banner print-out of all 800 images. Bristol Mayor George Ferguson, event sponsors JLL and other prize sponsors presented the awards to the winning photographers at a packed gathering. 24 Hours in Bristol 2015 calendars are now available to buy from the Harbourside Arts Centre, Stanfords Bristol or by emailing megan@artventures.uk.com, £7.99.

Chloe Spalding and Alastair Kimpton

Top chef’s masterclass Bradbury’s, Bond Street To celebrate their 1st year in Bristol, Bradbury’s luxury kitchen showroom saw celebrated chef Michael Caines MBE cooking in their Miele demonstration kitchen. Guests enjoyed a selection of canapés from Michael’s latest book while watching the great man at work. These dedicated touch, test and taste experiences are free to attend, and the next one is Tuesday 25 November. There are limited places so book early.

Contact Phil on tel: 0117 941 4179, or visit: www.bradburysltd.co.uk.

Guest poets, representatives from Bristol’s Jamaican Cultural Partnership and Bristol University scholars

Michael Caines cooks up a storm at Bradbury’s

Jamaica Rising Turtle Bay, Broad Quay Throughout October the city celebrated Black History Month, and on Saturday 11 October, Turtle Bay hosted a supper for Jamaica Rising poets – including Melville Cooke, Richard Dingwall, Yashika Graham and new Jamaican Poet Laureate Professor Mervyn Morris – and collaborators. The event was a great success, supplying downtime with authentic food and warm hospitality. Turtle Bay, 8 Broad Quay, BS1 4DA. Tel: 0117 929 0209 or visit: www.turtlebay.co.uk.

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NOVEMBER 2014

Aspire

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Watch straps and batteries Stocking: Boccia, Fred Bennett and Full Spot

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aspireclifton@gmail.com

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History, Tradition & Quality - the only Kemps Jewellers since 1881 A: 9 Calton Court, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3DF W:

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www.kempsjewellers.com (online store) T:

0117 950 5090

NOVEMBER 2014

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 19

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End of the line

A

few weeks ago I discovered that a certain female comic was coming to Bristol. Now, this performer has a considerable fan base at Bartleby Towers so I went online in search of tickets. The gig being almost three months away and the comic popular but by no means a megastar, I thought the process would be straightforward and ultimately rewarding. I was wrong.

The evening was already sold out.

Somehow all the people in Bristol who liked this particular comic had already found out she was coming and had snapped up the tickets. Actually this isn’t quite right. It wasn’t necessarily fans of the comic who had bought the tickets, just those who heard about the gig before everyone else. Those early birds got the worm not because they admired its particular qualities but simply because they were early.

As you might have gathered from the slightly miffed tone of the above, this isn’t the first time this has happened. In fact I long ago acknowledged that I would never get to see a performance by anyone more popular than the house band at our local community centre, because the tickets would always be long gone before I found out they were available. For the same reason I can say, hand on heart, that I will never buy a ticket for Glastonbury Festival. I went a couple of times in my youth, when you could write off for tickets in a leisurely manner, enclosing cheque or postal order, but as of now the only way I’ll get there is by getting myself hired in some capacity. And what that capacity could possibly be I have no idea.

❝ IN TODAY’S WORLD THE FAN HAS BEEN REPLACED BY THE PERSON WITH THE BEST SYSTEM OF EMAIL ALERTS

❞

Of course there have always been early birds among the nation’s culture vultures, but in the old days it took much more effort to find out what was going on, and to buy tickets; you couldn’t simply book every interestingsounding creative happening with a single press of a button. In today’s world the fan has been replaced by the person with the best system of email alerts.

You used to start thinking about the weekend on Wednesday, have a look through the paper and maybe phone about tickets the day after. Usually, though, you could just turn up.

If a film, say, was popular, then you knew you had to get there early and stand in a queue, but at least you could still be spontaneous – go out on a whim or having discovered that your bank account was not quite as empty as you’d thought. I remember the first time I went to a cinema and was told that the film I wanted to see was sold out. But… I remember thinking, but… that’s not fair! I’m spontaneous and/or inefficient! Does that mean I can never go to the cinema again?!

I used to look at listings with some excitement, but now I avoid them, because by the time an event is listed it is too late. But so much for the problem. What about the solution? How am I proposing to succour those Bristolians who, like myself, are fed up of worm-free living, in the cultural sense?

Okay, how about this? Let’s force every venue to hold back a percentage of tickets for every event, so that genuine fans who aren’t very good at forward planning have a chance to queue up in the old way.

Is that likely to happen? No, not really, but don’t worry because there’s a Plan B, which is: look elsewhere for your cultural sustenance. Leave the big, biggish and even not-very-big names to the early birds and instead explore the unbookable, un-plan-for-able creative life of the city. Listen out for buskers, pop along to art trails and street festivals, sit in a café and watch the people go by, wander. If you hear or see something interesting, stop. Enjoy the moment. n 20 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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Our new shop is now open 47 High Street BS1 2AZ (by St. Nicholas Market)

t: 01179 636 900 • www.bristolblueglass.com

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Hand-made,beautifully crafted traditional rugs from all over the Orient.

Oriental rugs of bath at Bookbarn International

T: 01761 451764 • www.orientalrugsofbath.com

A great day out, in one location!

Bookbarn International,Wells Road, Hallatrow, Bristol BS39 6EX

bookbarn@bookbarninternational.com • T: 01761 451333 www.bookbarninternational.com

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NOVEMBER 2014

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 21

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FACE | THE MUSIC

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NOVEMBER 2014

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FACE | THE MUSIC

ALL TOGETHER NOW Jenny Hayes finds out what strikes a chord with musician and community choir master, Tom Jones

B

ristol boy Tom’s musical leanings began early. Very early, in fact, when watching a presenter make a trumpet out of cardboard tubing on Play School and deciding it was the instrument he wanted to play.

And so he did, to great success, gaining a place in the National Youth Orchestra and then going on to study at London’s prestigious Guildhall School of Music, before starting his career as a professional trumpet player.

Life on the road brought variation and excitement, but also long and erratic hours, so Tom took time out to think about how he could pursue a different route that would make him happy. “I’ve always been driven by music as a powerful force for good,” he explains. “I knew how much it helped me in my own life, so really believed it had the potential to bring about positive change in others.”

Wanting to introduce music to people as early as possible, Tom started running workshops in schools for children in difficult circumstances, helping them to express themselves in a different and more accessible way. “And that’s what inspired the name, Out There Music,” says Tom. “I was putting myself out there, trying to break down the barriers surrounding access to music and make it more inclusive.

The problem was only working with these kids on a short-term basis. What was needed was a more sustained effort that would give long-term results.” So in 2008 he started a choir that met weekly at Westbury Park School, aiming to offer children the opportunity to engage with music in an ongoing, sustainable way. What he hadn’t planned for was the number of parents who wanted to join, and by 2009 he was also running an adult choir. The Out There Music orchestra followed in 2010, and the chamber choir in 2012.

So what next? “Well, the Westbury choir now totals about 90 members, so I thought I’d start a new community choir in Totterdown,” Tom pauses. “So we set up the hall with chairs, teas, coffees and biscuits for about 20 people … and then opened the door to find a queue of over 100, stretching all the way down Wells Road,” he laughs. “It was totally overwhelming, but great. It felt like the last five years of hard work came together right then, and that my conviction was right. Music does unite people.”

Out There Music’s concerts have proved equally popular with audiences, drawing on a range of repertoire so that both musicians and listeners can recognise old favourites and experience new music that they can go on to enjoy at home. “Music is a reciprocal process,” says Tom, “so I’ve always tried to make sure we put on a show that is full of joy and energy, as we need to feel a crackle of excitement from the audience to inspire our own performance.”

And what he’s doing seems to be working, as the 100-strong audience that filled Westbury Hall in 2010 grew to sell out 500-seat St George’s earlier this year. “I’m aiming to fill the Colston Hall on our 10th birthday!” Tom isn’t joking, and with his boundless energy and enthusiasm matched by that of his musicians, I wouldn’t put it past them.

Tom’s top 10: ❶ Symphony No. 2 by Rachmaninov When I was twelve, I gained a place as 3rd trumpet in the County of Avon Schools Symphony Orchestra and at the time I was the youngest member in their history. Looking back, I consider this symphony the first piece I ever played with a ‘proper orchestra’ and it left a mark on me which has stayed to this day. We also took it on tour to America the following year and it evokes wonderful memories for me from that time in my life. ❷ Concerto for Orchestra by Bartok After a few years in C.A.S.S.O, I then gained a place in the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain and we performed this piece in the BBC Proms at The Albert Hall. There is an incredibly exposed moment for the trumpets at the beginning of the 1st movement, which in front of a sold out Albert Hall and live on the BBC, was one of the highest pressure moments of my life.

But it went well, and is a moment I look back on with immense pride. ❸ The Lark Ascending by Vaughan Williams I love Vaughan Williams. His music and this piece in particular captures much of what I love about the English countryside. I remember just before I went travelling around the world, listening to this while on the train rolling WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK

though Oxfordshire and thinking (briefly), that I didn’t want to leave after all and I'd rather stay at home. ❹ The Blower’s Daughter by Damien Rice The summer of 2003 was one to remember for me. I had just met my then girlfriend, now wife, Emily and all my best friends and brother still lived in Bristol. Throughout July and August we would regularly meet Damien Rice © Francesco up at Sea Walls on The Downs to play ultimate frisbee. The grass was yellow, burnt dry from the heat and with the sun setting and the kites flying, it was a magical time. This song will always remind me of those halcyon days. ❺ Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley More often than not, cover versions of songs do not surpass the originals they are trying to redefine. However, for me this has to be one of the finest cover versions ever recorded. I first heard it played on Radio 1 at the precise moment the first plane struck on the one year anniversary of 9/11. I was in Scotland on the shores of Loch Awe and because of where I was, when it was and accompanied by this song, it is a moment that has never left me. ❻ re:Stacks by Bon Iver One of my favourite things about Bristol is being able to walk and cycle everywhere. I love going for walks on The Downs, Ashton Court and around Clifton while listening to music on my headphones, especially on cold crisp winter days, late in the afternoon. This song always makes me think of a favourite walk of mine around the Harbourside in fading light, then over to Brandon Hill and up to the top of Cabot Tower in time for sunset. So much of what I love about Bristol, accompanied by a mesmeric song. ❼ Juicy by The Notorious B.I.G. The storytelling of Biggie Smalls on this record coupled with his incredible delivery is astounding. There is so much energy and positivity in this song from a man telling the story of his rise up out of the very challenging circumstances he was born into, to the top of the music world. Every time this comes on I just stop whatever I’m doing and listen. ❽ C Jam Blues by Wynton Marsalis and The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra This track is more representative of the LCJO and in particular, Wynton Marsalis himself. As an aspiring trumpet player growing up I idolised him, right from when my grandad showed me a video of him playing jazz while wearing a hat and I just thought he was so cool, so much so that I decided to take my grade 5 trumpet wearing a similar cap. I had a chance to meet him when he came to Bristol with the LCJO recently and for the musical genius and global star that he is, he couldn’t have been more gracious. ❾ Somewhere from West Side Story by Leonard Bernstein For me, the music from West Side Story is not only some of the finest music ever written for musical theatre, it is actually some of the finest music ever written full stop. One test of how great a song is, is if its music can stand alone without its lyrics. Another is if it still works in other arrangements for different instruments or voices. Somewhere passes both these tests with more ease than almost any others that I can think of. ❿ Flying Theme from E.T. by John Williams I think John Williams is a genius and I love much of his music, but when you study this particular piece of his and how he captures what is happening on screen, it is a piece of compositional mastery. It is famous for being the one time that a film director (Stephen Spielberg no less) adjusted his pictures to fit with John Williams’ music. The original soundtrack also showcases another of my trumpet playing heroes – Maurice Murphy, principal trumpet of the London Symphony Orchestra at the time – with his utterly unique sound and exhilarating playing, so this simply had to be on my list. n NOVEMBER 2014

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New Montblanc Showroom at Mallory Jewellers, Bath

A star is born... espite living in a digital age where most of us treasure our iPhone’s, and texting and emailing seem to have almost replaced the art of penmanship, the appreciation for beautifully crafted writing instruments still continues to grow.

The self-proclaimed “Fathers of Stylish Writing”, German manufacturer Montblanc, has remained devoted to the making of high end writing instruments for over a century and today is one of, if not the most, distinguished producers of writing instruments in the world. Recognised by its unmistakable white rounded star emblem, representative of the snowcovered peak of the Mont Blanc - the highest European mountain, which symbolises the brand’s commitment to the highest quality and finest European craftsmanship.

In 1924 Montblanc delivered its most iconic writing instrument of all time, the legendary “Meisterstück” (which translates as “Masterpiece” in German). The “Meisterstück 149” fountain pen soon became the ultimate symbol for writing culture and the style icon for perfect timeless design. Over time it has graced the hands of numerous historic figures including Barack Obama, Nelson Mandela and John F. Kennedy. This year is also a special year for the “Meisterstück” as it celebrates its 90th anniversary, which Montblanc has marked with the launch of special edition pieces with red gold plating and a commemorative “90” nib design.

Complementing the traditional “Meisterstück”, Montblanc presents a number of other stylish everyday collections, as well as limited edition pieces for its avid collectors around the world, where every piece tells its individual story.

However Montblanc is regarded not only for its beautifully made writing instruments, today its luxury offering has expanded to include exquisitely crafted leather goods, jewellery, eyewear, fragrance and more recently, timepieces.

D

Montblanc Muse Collection “Princesse Grace de Monaco” (Rollerball, Ballpoint and Fountain Pen) Montblanc Star Classique Lady Quartz Watch and Montblanc Meisterstück Tribute to the Mont Blanc Cardcase

Montblanc Extreme Document Case and Three Rings Reversible Leather Belt

Although Montblanc may be a relative newcomer to the world of horology, it translates the same meticulous approach it uses when creating fine writing instruments to its watchmaking endeavors. To date Montblanc has launched a number of distinctive collections with several of those paying homage to the brands classic style such as “The Star Collection”, however we have also seem more modern, 21st century aesthetic pieces like “The Timewalker Collection” introduced into the mix…

To explore the delights of one of the world’s finest craftsmen, visit Mallory’s new dedicated Montblanc showroom where you will find one of the largest range of Montblanc products in the UK.

1-5 Bridge Street, Bath, BA2 4AP 01225 788800 • www.mallory-jewellers.com

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Beautifully Handmade Gemstone Jewellery

www.fossildrops.com 27 St James Arcade, Broadmead, Bristol

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In a speakeasy in central Bristol, Jenny Hayes reworks 1920s elegance with a high fashion edge for party style that’s going to get you noticed

BREAK THE RULES

Models: Charlotte and Taloulah Photographer: Andre Regini www.regini.com Stylist: Harriet de Winton www.harrietdewinton.com

STRAIGHT UP: Dress £450 LK Bennett, shoes £495 Christian Louboutin both at Harvey Nichols Available at Harvey Nichols, Cabot Circus

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ADD A MIXER: Charlotte wears: dress £159 and shoes £159 both from Reiss, necklace £10 Accessorize Taloulah wears: jumpsuit £245, belt £69, shoes £195 and bag £110 all from Reiss, necklace £7 Accessorize Available at Cabot Circus

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CAUSE A STIR: dress £169 Biba at House of Fraser, necklace £10 and bangles £15 Accessorize Available at Cabot Circus

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OVER ICE: Dress £59 Label Lab at House of Fraser, cape £59 Biba at House of Fraser, necklace £15, headband £17 and bracelet £12 all Accessorize, shoes £59 Monsoon Available at Cabot Circus

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WITH A TWIST: Jacket £220 Pinko, skirt £110 Finders Keepers, shoes £225 LK Bennett all at Harvey Nichols Available at Harvey Nichols, Cabot Circus

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SHIMMER AND SHAKE: Taloulah wears: dress £180 Untold at House of Fraser, necklace £10 Accessorize Charlotte wears: dress £199 Monsoon, headband £17 Accessorize Available at Cabot Circus

Huge thanks also goes to Rose at Mustard Models, Noel Halligan and his team at Seanhanna for hair, Briony Cleverley at Shu Uemura in Harvey Nichols for makeup, our prohibition venue Milk Thistle, the Grayling PR team, and of course Cabot Circus and all retailers.

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Gold & Platinum Studio

Beautifully crafted engagement rings, wedding rings and fine jewellery designed and traditionally handmade on the premises. All types of jewellery remodelled. Efficient repair service.

Established 1970

Gold & Platinum Studio, 19 Northumberland Place, Bath BA1 5AR | Tel: +44 (0)1225 462 300 www.goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk | email: mike@goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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CITY | CREATIVES

A fantastic creation by Ian Furey-King

FULL STEAM AHEAD Hannah Stuart-Leach meets the Bristol creators and makers inspired by the city’s past and fantastically imagined future

T

hanks to its rich industrial heritage and forward-thinking, creative spirit, Bristol has become a bit of a hub for steampunks – a goggled, coggled movement envisioning a futuristic, egalitarian version of the Victorians. American science fiction author K.W. Jeter coined the term in the 1980s when he proposed the age of steam fantasy genre could be the next big thing.

As many who identify with the aesthetic attend monthly meet-ups in costume, the steampunk scene is necessarily creative, from imagining the identity of alter egos to carefully crafting apparel and accoutrements. Beryl Furey-King, who has been involved in the Bristol scene for several years explains, “Part of being interested in steampunk is having the imagination to believe in a world which is different to what we experience daily. If we are in a different world then what we wear, what we do and how we live is different and it is not possible to buy a Victorian life 'off the shelf'.

We all enjoy creativity to a different level, so you don't have to be an artist to be part of steampunk. We all share our expertise and experience it is part of being in the community.”

In tribute to this movement, this is a showcase of Bristol’s creators and an introduction to their steampunk inspired crafts.

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THE WRITER – SCOTT LEWIS wizardstowepress.com Scott is a contributing author to Airship Shape & Bristol Fashion, a collection of steampunk themed tales published in conjunction with The BristolCon Foundation. He discovered steampunk when he happened upon a video online by chap-hop musician Professor Elemental.

“In 2013 The Bristol Con Foundation was looking around for a unique theme for some stories about Bristol, and that’s where Airship Shape started. We looked into Bristol’s glory days, from the late 1700s through to the turn of the century, and discovered how much of a role engineering and ingenuity played in the city’s history. You’ve got Brunel and lots of innovation going on here, lots of social reform, lots of big questions were answered right here in Bristol.

Then we gave it a fantasy spin – what would happen if we imagined Barny Haughton leads a a Bristol where electricity had never been invented? Where Faraday had curry masterclass at the gone to the pub instead of getting on with his work?”

Square Food Foundation

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CITY | CREATIVES

THE JEWELLER – LEAH STEELE www.roguejewels.etsy.com A solicitor by day, Leah started Rogue Jewels to give her something to do whilst waiting for the phone to ring during on-call shifts. She describes her creations as ‘steampunk-lite’.

“I use copper and clockwork but also colour, light and classic styles to create jewellery that speaks to the wearer, but not for them. My favourite piece is the clockwork drop earrings. This was one of the first pieces I made and it receives a new twist every few months. No two pairs are the same because they use real vintage watch pieces. Currently the earrings feature clock parts and copper leafing, but previous incarnations have included coloured resin and even glitter.

Part of my range includes embedding photographs, pictures or text in jewellery and cufflinks to create bespoke pieces. Hearing the story behind particular pictures or quotes is wonderful; creating bespoke jewellery can be intimate and I'm honoured whenever someone confides in me. I’ve even created jewellery with a couple of words I couldn't repeat in polite company!”

Copper and clockwork earrings

THE LASER CUTTER – ANDY DINGLEY

LEATHERWORKER TRACEY SMITH

yourlaser.co.uk

www.awlsmith.co.uk

Archaeologist Tracey makes and sells traditional leatherwork at St Nicks Market every Saturday. Always attracted to the history and culture of the Victorian age, but not the social injustice, she loves steampunk’s progressive re-imagining of the period.

“My leatherwork is largely inspired by vintage and antique pieces, both for their craftsmanship and their practicality. It’s why I work only by hand, including the sewing, and use vegetable tanned leathers that look better the older they get, to keep that look and feel of traditional work.

I wouldn't say my work is typically steampunk, in that is hasn't got cogs or gears on it, or indeed anything that if you saw it out of context you would say ‘that looks steampunk’, but the vintage look of my leather goes well with steampunk outfits. With the added bonus of being able to take it the office if you wanted to as well without getting odd looks!”

Andy was a maker before steampunk existed. His latest endeavour is laser cutting business Atelier Fabry-Perot. He recently spent weeks cutting thousands of pieces for the Book Hive, Bristol Library’s 400th anniversary installation by Rusty Squid, and makes a fine range of steampunk accessories.

“I'm much more of a maker within steampunk than a character or a costumier. Lasering came about because me and my wife Rachel did setdressing for our steampunk festival, The Waltz on the Wye, and I was lucky to borrow time on a laser cutter. It took ages to learn how to use it to its best, as it's really quite hard - you're on your own burning up wood and just seeing what works.

Laser cutters are very versatile. I'm working on pieces at the moment where I sell laser-cut mechanisms to other steampunks as components: things like a lens iris or a gear mechanism that's hard to make without the laser, so that other makers can use it as part of their own work without needing a complicated workshop of their own.”

THE INVENTOR – COLIN LOW

Colin was in and out of the goth scene from the early 80s, but as he matured in years began to acquire the wardrobe of an Edwardian gentleman.

As a physicist, he naturally has an affinity for “the flashier aspects of Victorian science”, and has made inventions including the award winning Wimshurst Machine – a classic high voltage spark generator – and a show stopping period bicycle.

“The bicycle, which I took to the Frome Steampunk Extravaganza this year, took about six months to build. It grew out of my long-term passion for motorcycling. I thought it would be fun to have an Edwardian motorcycle, but there are significant logistical problems with owning that kind of antique, so I resolved to build a bicycle that evoked some of the period charm of motorcycles of that era. A very characteristic feature is the fuel tank set between two crossbars - they were called ‘flat-tankers’.

My current project is inspired by the clockwork humanoid automata of the 18th century - Scorcese captures the idea beautifully in ‘Hugo’. I bought a 70s Goblin Teasmade and I plan to add animatronic eyes, a camera to track faces, a voice and speech recognition.

I don't accept commissions... these things are a labour of love, and you can't put a This image: Colin with his handmade bicycle price on that.”

Right: The Wimshurst Machine

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CITY | CREATIVES

THE WINGMAKER – MABIN RHYS mabinrhys-fairywings.moonfruit.com Mabin has always made costumes and props, but started crafting steampunk inspired fairy wings fulltime in 2008 after finishing university.

She loves meeting with the Bristol Steampunk and Neo-Victorian League, and sharing creative ideas over tea and cake.

“For me, as a creative daydreamer, the best things about the steamfae (faeryfied steampunk) genre are the materials: brocades, taffeta, velvets, buttons, leather and lace, bustles, ruffles, brass and copper...

One of my favourite creations was a custom order for double steampunk fairy wings, they turned out just right. It is the little things I enjoy, the thought process that takes you from how would fairies camouflage themselves in a steampunk age to making lovely little clockwork flowers.”

Ian Furey-King

THE GADGET MAN – IAN FUREY-KING furey-king@blueyonder.co.uk

Ian and wife Beryl have been historical interpreters for over 15 years.

They enjoy steampunk because, as it doesn’t actually exist as an era, they are able to create costumes and equipment that are their own interpretation of Victorian. The retired D&T teacher and model maker turned actor enjoys making 3D objects.

“I have created a range of steampunk guns to wear with our outfits and for friends; I even have interest in commissioning a series of guns from the Dr Who art department. The guns are made from recycled brass bits and bobs, old toy guns and anything that looks okay. I am currently working on a steampunk bicycle and steam powered penny farthings for us to ride as dispatch riders for the Dirigible Corps. Creating gadgets etc. is all part of the fun. We are not confined by historic rules on accuracy, there is only one steampunk rule: Be Splendid.”

Mabin’s wings

SEAMSTRESS LAURA MACKRILL lauraaftermidnight.com

Blood red and black lace spats

THE MILLINER – BERYL FUREY-KING www.thimblebee.co.uk Hat maker Beryl loves discovering the construction of clothing from different eras, and putting costumes together with a modern twist for her and husband Ian. “This interest in costume led me to start making my own hats and I have now undertaken professional training through the Millinery Guild in Bristol and started Thimblebees Couture Millinery. Some of my work is on display at the Millinery Guild in St James Arcade, and I can also make custom hats to order.

Ian and I portray different characters, depending on what takes our fancy that day! We have set ourselves up as dispatch riders for the Dirigible Corps and have a suitable uniform to wear. Ian is also a member of the Royal Steam Navy and we sometimes portray time travellers and explorers and occasionally, steampunk pirates.” n

Laura has travelled the world making historical costumes for films. Now settled in Bristol, her city centre atelier Laura After Midnight takes its cue from the steampunk and vintage scenes.

“I actually set up Bristol Sewing Club to meet people when I moved here, and a load of steampunk goths came along so we just started making corsets, ruffles and bustle skirts. In teaching them, I figured out there was a gap in the market for people who wanted to make their own mini-top hats and stuff but didn’t quite know how. The kits I produce now (available in PDF format), from spats to corsets, they’re all in response to people asking me for them.

I sell a lot of spats. We’re talking hundreds! I think people don’t think they can make those, or it’s just that last component part that finishes off an outfit for not too much money. My favourite commission this year though is for two Edwardian skirts. They’re going to be so beautiful, I really can’t wait to make them.”

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The ‘Flossie’, a midi-sized hat in coffee coloured felt

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BRISTOL AT WORK Our series of photographic portraits by Charlotte Stone shows Bristol people at work

Ani Townsend of Milliners’ Guild, and theatrical milliner extraordinaire

I

trained at Wimbledon School of Art, graduating in theatre design and specialising in millinery within costume interpretation. My passion was for theatrical millinery, and I have worked freelance in this area since being a student.

Originally born and raised in Bristol, I only returned from London when the theatrical company I had just started working for lost its funding, and I was made redundant. Fortunately, I was head hunted by Welsh National Opera shortly after, so remained in Bristol. Since then, I have gained a cat, a husband, and a child, so won’t be looking to leave the city any time soon.

As resident milliner at Welsh National Opera between 2005 and 2012, I was creating hats and head-dresses for new productions and re-creating items for revivals. My experience during this time covered such diverse projects as Seven Deadly Sins, Merry Widow and Meistersinger von Nurnberg, as well as costume supervision.

I specialise in period and unusual millinery, and wirework. To me, millinery is wearable sculpture, and this side of millinery tends to be most expressed in film and theatre, where the design is often very artistically inspired. There tends to be less scope for this in everyday fashion millinery, though event millinery can be particularly sculptural; think Ascot and adventurous weddings!

In 2008 I co-founded Bristol Art Fringe with a number of other artists. We pulled together the Montpelier Art Trail as a way of showcasing the many artistic talents contained in the Montpelier area. A number of us wanted to create a shop that would provide a retail outlet for fringe members.

Although the BAF shop didn’t get much traction, the idea did galvanise me into opening Milliners’ Guild as part of a wider revamp of St James’ Arcade in Broadmead. The idea is to provide an outlet for up-and-coming UK milliners, with a particular emphasis on the local region, and sustainable millinery practices.

Since opening this time last year, I have moved to a larger unit in the arcade, and can be found in my workshop, crafting hats, most days of the week. My work now is a balance of theatrical and fashion millinery, teaching workshops, and trying to keep my website up to date. I’ve recently been working on new TV productions of Cider with Rosie and Poldark, as well a new Disney production. My work is also coming to the Hippodrome in the form of Calamity Jane and the Magic Flute. n

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For more examples of Ani’s work, or to find out more information visit: www.anitownsend.com www.charlottestonephoto.com

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WHAT’S | ON Tom Service at St George’s Bristol

CULTURE BOOK Our guide to this month’s top events in Bristol and beyond Stuffed Puppet Theatre at Tobacco Factory

Satish Kumar, Future NOW

WNO at the Bristol Hippodrome

FROM NOVEMBER 11

UNTIL NOVEMBER 10

Cass Caswell Jazz Trio & Sinead, Zerodegrees, every Wednesday, 8pm – 10.30pm

Anaïs Mitchell, The Lantern, Colston Hall, Tuesday 11 November, 8pm

Formed in 2000, the band’s punchy, inspired jazz takes audiences by storm. Embodying the excitement of Oscar Peterson and Jimmy Smith, their scintillating piano and organ numbers swing like mad, with stunning bass and drum solos liberally thrown in. Tel: 0117 925 2706 or visit: www.zerodegrees.co.uk/bristol.

Award-winning folk singer Anaïs Mitchell returns to Bristol to perform music from her new album, Xoa, and other favourites including hits from the critically acclaimed folk opera, Hades Town. Tickets: £16.13 (inc. booking fee) from the box office on tel: 0844 887 1500 or visit: www.colstonhall.org.

Afrika Eye, Watershed, Friday 7 – Sunday 9 November

War Game, Bristol Old Vic, Tuesday 11 – Saturday 22 November, evening and matinee shows

The south west’s biggest celebration of African films and culture returns to Watershed with an extended programme offering the best new feature and documentary films, director talks, debates, world music, talent awards and a marketplace selling authentic African goods and foods. For more details or to book tickets tel: 0117 927 6444 or visit www.watershed.co.uk.

Future NOW, Trinity Centre, Saturday 8 November, 10am – 5pm This conference and charity fundraiser brings leading eco and wellbeing thinkers, writers, performers and activists to Bristol to raise debate about the future and explore urgent solutions and mindful steps for sustaining the Earth. The keynote speaker is Peter Owens. Tickets: £55 advance, £65 on the door. To book visit: www.futurenow.consciousfrontiers.com.

Brunel Sinfonia Autumn Concert, Victoria Rooms, Saturday 8 November, 7.30pm Enjoy Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6, Ravels’s Pavanne, and Debussy’s La Mer in the opulent surroundings of Bristol’s Victoria Rooms. Leader: Tina Mehta, conductor: Mark Gateshill. Tickets: £15 (£12 concs), £1 under 16s, available on the door or from Opus 13 tel: 0117 923 0164 or visit: www.opus13.co.uk.

Lydbrook Brass Band, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Sunday 9 November, 4.30pm – 5.30pm Performances by internationally renowned Lydbrook Brass Band, conducted by Ian Holmes, including the premiere of Silver Rose, a new work by Liz Lane inspired by the Bristol born war poet Isaac Rosenberg and narrated by Robert Hardy CBE. The work has been specially commissioned by Bristol 2014 to commemorate the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War. Free entry but book in advance, visit: www.bristolmuseums.org.uk or tel: 0117 922 3571.

Exultate Singers, St George’s Brisol, Sunday 9 November, 7.30pm Exultate Singers is joined by The Lochrian Ensemble to perform a concert marking the 100th anniversary of the beginning of WWI. Herbert Howells’ beautiful Requiem is paired with Gerald Finzi’s intense Requiem da Camera. The choir will give an off-book performance of Howells' iconic anthem Take him, earth, for cherishing. Tickets £12 – £21 from the box office on 0845 40 24 001, or online at www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk.

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Marking one hundred years since the beginning of the First World War, War Game is a family show that pays timely and moving tribute to the young men who didn’t return from the fields of France. It is based on the book by Michael Foreman, who works as an illustrator with Michael Morpurgo, as well as creating his own stories. The book is a popular choice as an introduction to the First World War in primary schools, and tells a very personal story of a collective history. Tickets: £12 adult, £7.50 child from the box office tel: 0117 987 7877 or visit: www.bristololdvic.org.

Welsh National Opera, Bristol Hippodrome, Wednesday 12 – Saturday 15 November, performance times vary The WNO’s programme of performances starts with the drama of audience favourite Carmen on Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 November, then continues with Moses in Egypt on Friday 14, concluding with William Tell on Saturday 15. Tickets: £11.40 – £55.90 from the box office tel: 0844 871 3012 or visit: www.atgtickets.com.

Hellfire Video Club, The Cube, Friday 14 November, 8pm Celebrating the work of one of Hollywood’s favourite character actors, Elliott Gould, Hellfire will be showing Silent Partner (1978) as the main feature, followed by a second film that plays like an American ‘Politziotteschi’ flick. There will also be Hellfire DJs, projections and more in the bar. Tickets: £5/£4. For more details visit: www.cubecinema.com.

What the Frock! Comedy, The Lantern, Colston Hall, Friday 14 November, 8pm Bristol's award-winning all-female comedy show returns with Bristol's beloved Jayde Adams at the helm. Joining Jayde will be Aisling Bea and Shazia Mirza. Tickets £13 (£11 concs) from the box office on tel: 0844 887 1500 or visit: www.colstonhall.org.

Punch & Judy in Afghanistan, Tobacco Factory Theatre, Friday 14 and Saturday 15 November, 8pm By turns humorous and unsettling, Stuffed Puppet Theatre use the wit, absurdity and directness of traditional puppet theatre to discover what happens when naiveté and cynicism meet. Tickets: £13 (£9 concs) from the box office tel: 0117 902 0344 or visit: www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com.

Age recommendation 14+.

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FROM NOVEMBER 15

International Ocean Film Festival at Victoria Rooms

Bristol Makers Market, Gloucester County Cricket Ground, Saturday 15 November 11am – 4pm An opportunity to get your Christmas shopping done early, offering a unique mix of artisan stalls, handmade crafts, homemade cakes, preserves, jewellery, art, cards, and much more. The café is open all day if you need to hydrate during your day of shopping. Entry: £1 (under 16s free) and car parking is available on site.

Top Hat, Bristol Hippodrome, Tuesday 18 – Saturday 29 November, 2.30pm & 7.30pm Jerry Travers (Alan Burkitt), the famous American tap dancer, arrives in London to appear in his first West End show. Travers meets the irresistible Dale Tremont (Charlotte Gooch), the girl of his dreams, and follows her across Europe in an attempt to win her heart.

Performed by a cast of 29 and accompanied by 11 live musicians, this multi awardwinning musical comedy includes Irving Berlin classics from the movie such as Cheek to Cheek, Isn’t It a Lovely Day to be Caught in the Rain and Top Hat, White Tie and Tails.

Tickets: £25.40 – £58.40 from the box office on tel: 0844 871 3012 or visit: www.atgtickets.com.

RAF in Concert, Colston Hall, Wednesday 19 November, 7.30pm

Top Hat at Bristol Hippodrome

The RAF in Concert tour makes a welcome return to Colston Hall to celebrate the 50th anniversary of one of the UK’s greatest national icons – the Red Arrows. Concert goers can expect a programme of music to match the colour, flamboyance and entertainment provided by the world’s most exciting aerobatic display team during the past five decades.

Compered by BBC Radio Two’s Alan Dedicoat. Tickets: £17 – £23, from the box office on tel: 0844 887 1500 or visit: www.colstonhall.org.

FROM NOVEMBER 22

Bristol Phoenix Choir, St Mary Redcliffe Church, Saturday 22 November, 7.30pm A celebration of the English choral tradition: Parry, Blest Pair of Sirens, Vaughan Williams, Five Mystical Songs, Walton, Coronation Te Deum, Rutter, Gloria. With Martin Le Poidevin (baritone), Jeremy Little (percussion), Bristol Cathedral Consort, Fine Arts Brass, and David Bednall (organ). Conductor Paul Walton. Tickets £15.00 (16 and under free) from Opus 13, St Michael’s Hill. Tel: 0117 9230164 or 07775 915155, or visit: tickets@bristolphoenixchoir.org.uk.

RAF in Concert at Colston Hall

Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain, Colston Hall, Wednesday 26 November, 7.30pm The world-famous all-singing, all-plucking superstars (whose celeb fans include David Bowie and Brian Eno) return with more toe-tapping tunes and yet more ukuleles. Hear everything from Lady Gaga to Voodoo Chile in this genre-crashing show. Tickets: £20 – £25 (incl. booking fee) from the box office on tel: 0844 887 1500 or visit: www.colstonhall.org.

New Bristol Sinfonia, Victoria Rooms, Saturday 22 November, 7.30pm

Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

The 150th anniversary of the opening of Clifton Suspension Bridge is marked with the performance of Scilla Autumnalis, a new commission by Australian composer Chris Williams. The programme also contains Dvorak’s Eighth Symphony, Adams’ Short Ride in a Fast Machine and Britten’s Four Sea Interludes. Conducted by Jonathan Lo. Tickets: £5 – £15, £2 children from Ticketsource box office on tel: 0844 870 0887.

EDITOR’S PICK...

Jools Holland at Colston Hall

Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, Colston Hall, Thursday 13 & Friday 14 November, 7.30pm Jools Holland will be bringing the greatest boogiewoogie party to Colston Hall once again with his hugely popular annual autumn / winter tour. The piano master will be joined by British icon Marc Almond and his much loved Rhythm & Blues Orchestra. Tickets £38.70 (incl. booking fee) from the box office on tel: 0844 887 1500 or visit: www.colstonhall.org.

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Alice in Wonderland at Redgrave Theatre

Swallows and Amazons, Bristol Old Vic, Thursday 27 November – Saturday 17 January, evening and matinee shows This Christmas the much-loved family muscial returns after a successful national tour and run on London’s West End. Swallows and Amazons tells the story of an idyllic era, of endless summer evenings and the beauty of youthful imagination. Follow Captain John and his able crew as they set sail to Wildcat Island on an exotic adventure to encounter savages, capture dastardly pirates and defeat mortal enemies. Tickets: £5 – £30 from the box office tel: 0117 987 7877 or visit: www.bristololdvic.org.

FROM NOVEMBER 28

Carers’ Rights Day, The Vassall Centre, Friday 28 November, 10am – 3pm Carers Support Centre is organising a free event for carers where they can meet and talk to one another over a cuppa in a relaxed environment, have a private 1:1 advice session with a support worker, benefit from a massage or a lovely manicure or pedicure, join in a wellbeing workshop, focusing on mindfulness and laughter techniques, and find out how technology can help in their caring role. For further information contact Dennis Agodzo on tel: 0117 937 5623 or email: hpadmin@carerssupportcentre.org.uk.

Alice in Wonderland, Redgrave Theatre, Friday 28 November – Thursday 18 December, 2pm & 7pm Bristol Old Vic Theatre School’s family Christmas show tells the ever-popular story of Alice’s encounters with the White Rabbit, the Caterpillar, the Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts and other fabulous, timeless characters. Children and adults alike will be enchanted. Tickets: £8 – £17, book from the box office on tel: 0117 973 3955 or visit: www.oldvic.ac.uk.

Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius, Colston Hall, Saturday 29 November, 7.30pm “This is the best of me” wrote Elgar at the end of his completed The Dream of Gerontius score. Widely regarded as one of the finest of all English choral masterpieces, a dream team of renowned artists (tenor Mark Padmore in the title role, Susan Bickley, David Stout, the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and Bristol Choral Society conducted by Adrian Partington) assembles for tonight’s performance. Book online at www.bristolchoral.co.uk or from the Colston Hall box office, tel: 0844 887 1500.

Bristol Ensemble, Trinity-Henleaze URC, Saturday 29 November, 7.30pm A feast of some of the best-loved music of the Baroque period including Bach’s glorious Second and Fourth Brandenburg Concertos, seasonal excerpts from Vivaldi’s famous violin concertos The Four Seasons, performed by Bristol Ensemble’s leader Roger Huckle, and music by Handel and Telemann. Jonathan James gives a pre-concert talk at 6.45pm. Tickets £16 for adults, £5 for under 25s, from Opus 13 music shop on tel: 0117 923 0164 and from Henleaze Post Office.

The Dream of Gerontius at Colston Hall

Sci-Fi Fest, Fleet Air Arm Museum, Saturday 29 November, from 10am For an out-of-this-world family event, come and meet many of your old favourites from the world of sci-fi adventures, including Jedi knights, storm troopers, Darth Vader, R2D2, Darth Maul, a host of droids, Batman, Hell Boy, Terminator, klingons and many more from all over the galaxy. Also jetting in will be special guest celebrities from Star Wars and Doctor Who. All visitors are welcome to come dressed as a favourite sci-fi character and take part in hands-on family activities. Tickets are free with a valid museum ticket (£14 adult, £10 child) and are available online from Saturday 1 November at www.fleetairarm.com.

Made in Bristol Gift Fair, Colston Hall, Saturday 29 November, Sunday 7 December & Saturday 13 December, 10am – 4pm Bringing the best of the region’s designer-makes to the heart of the city for a festive shopping showcase of creative talent, the fair will be located over four floors filled with a vast emporium of unique handmade gifts. Free entrance. For more information visit: www.handmadeinbristol.co.uk.

Advent Reflections, St Thomas the Martyr, Sunday 30 November, 6pm

Made in Bristol Gift Fair

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The highly-acclaimed chamber choir Harmonia Sacra, under conductor Peter Leech, present their annual concert of Advent choral music in the magical acoustics of St Thomas the Martyr. A traditional mix of old and new, this year commemorates three 300th anniversaries; the births of the baroque masters Nicolo Jommelli and Gottfried Homilius, and the death of Tommaso Bai, in 1714. Includes music by the late John Tavener and Lawrence Whitehead. Tickets: £10 – £12. To book visit: www.harmoniasacra.co.uk.

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BOOK NOW FOR...

Christmas at Glos Rd Central

Fat Shirley’s, Alma Tavern Theatre, Tuesday 2 – Saturday 6 December After a three year absence from Bristol, Fat Shirley’s, A Trailer Park Opera once again brings a bluegrass musical about an American trailer park community to the city. Colourful characters paint a comedic picture in the true operatic sense focusing on love, loss, grief and betrayal. Theatre-goers are encouraged to arrive in fancy dress. Tickets: £9.50 (£8.50 concs). For more information and to book tickets visit: www.almataverntheatre.co.uk.

Shakespeare Retreat, Clifton College, Tuesday 2 – Tuesday 9 December Discover two of Shakespeare's best-loved plays on this week long literary retreat, devised by the Shakespeare Academy in partnership with Clifton College. Accommodation will be in a historic private house in Somerset, and places are limited to 35. Course fee: £2500. For more details or to book visit: www.shakespeare-academy.com or tel: 0203 290 1564.

Christmas at Glos Rd Central, Thursday 4 December, shops open until 8.30pm

Christmas at the Spiegeltent

This Christmas, to help customers shop locally, traders will be staying open late every Thursday and opening on Sundays throughout December.

To launch the extended opening hours and celebrate the festive season Glos Rd Central will be holding this lively Christmas event, during which shops and galleries such as Room 212, Paper Plane, Fig and Artemis will be keeping their doors open late to show off a huge array of Christmas goodies. Hot drinks and delicious nibbles will also be on offer throughout the evening, and if you want to keep the party going the Golden Lion will be hosting a 17 piece big band later on. For more information contact www.room212.co.uk.

Grand Opening, Christmas at the Spiegeltent, Thursday 4 December, 7pm

Christmas at the Spiegeltent 2014 opens with a bang for a night of Balkan ››

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gypsy jazz and folk from Bristol’s finest Sheelanagig, plus dub, blues, reggae and hip hop from Land of the Giants. The first of a number of highlights to take you through the festive season. Tickets: £15 visit: www.christmasspiegeltent.co.uk.

Mahler Symphony No. 9, St George’s, Saturday 6 December, 7.30pm To play Beethoven’s lyrical Romances for violin and orchestra, Bristol Concert Orchestra (conductor Stefnm Hofkes) welcomes exciting young violinist Eloisa-Fleur Thom. The main work of the concert – Mahler’s Symphony No. 9 – was described by Leonard Bernstein as “the ultimate farewell” to passion and human love, to country life and urban society, and to life itself. Yet this extraordinary and immense work remains a defiant affirmation of life. Tickets from www.bristolconcertorchestra.org.uk or from St George's, tel: 0845 402 4001.

Dick Whittington, Bristol Hippodrome, Saturday 6 December – Sunday 5 January, 2pm & 7pm The countdown is on to the ultimate tail of rags to riches, Dick Whittington – this year’s award winning spectacular family pantomime at The Bristol Hippodrome. Starring as Alice Fitzwarren and her dog will be Britain’s Got Talent winners Ashleigh and Pudsey, with Ben Faulks as Dick Whittington, Andy Ford as Idle Jack, panto dame extraordinaire Eric Potts as Sarah the Cook and X Factor’s Brenda Edwards as Fairy Bowbells. Tickets: £10 – £39.50 from the box office tel: 0844 871 3012 or visit: www.atgtickets.com.

Treefest, St Mary Redcliffe Church, Tuesday 9 – Saturday 13 December An unusual Christmas celebration is taking place in the city this year, with a display of more than 100 decorated Christmas trees organised to raise money for three local charities: Bristol Youth and Community Action, The Arc Café, and the church itself. Refreshments will be available in the church, where local choirs will also be performing carols. Entrance is free, but visitors are encouraged to make a donation. For more information tel: 0117 929 1487.

Muppets Die Hard, The White Bear, Wednesday 10 December – Friday 9 January, 8pm The Wardrobe Theatre have conspired to create a darkly comic, adult only, alternative Christmas show to serve as an antidote to the season’s usual sickly-sweet entertainment. This is the venue’s biggest and boldest show yet, and an absurd merging of Jim Henson’s puppets and the 1980s blockbuster. Tickets: £5 visit: www.thewardrobetheatre.com.

Exultate Singers, St James Priory, Thursday 11 and Saturday 13 December, 7.45pm Exultate Singers perform an exquisite programme of Christmas music, the perfect preparation for the festive season, conducted by David Ogden.

The ticket price includes interval refreshments of warm mince pies and a Christmas spiced fruit punch, together with a complimentary programme.

Tickets are £15 for adults, £13 for concessions, £5 for students in full time education and £2 for under 18s, available online from www.exultatesingers.org or from Opus 13, St Michael’s Hill, tel: 0117 923 0164.

Festive Flea Market, The Folk House, Saturday 13 November, 10am – 4pm Head down to The Folk House on Park Street to snap up some winter goodies for friends and family. Vintage clothing and accessories will be available, as well as records, books and other knick-knacks that offer something a little bit different to stuff in your stocking this year. Entry is free, for more details visit: www.bristolfolkhouse.co.uk or tel: 0117 926 2987.

Christmas at the Orangery, Bradbury Hall, Henleaze, Saturday 13 November, 10am – 5pm Head down to this charming Christmas market, where over 30 local designers will be selling unique gifts, including interior items by Hannah Redden, Bath Spa Skincare, art from Loucy Routh, and jewellery from Melanie Pike. In support of Penny Brohn Cancer Care (established 2001).

Entrance is free. For more details visit: www.christmasattheorangery.com.

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CHRISTMAS TREATS IN BATH A real ice rink and a world famous Christmas market in beautiful Georgian Bath – just a 15 minute train ride from Bristol

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ath’s Christmas Market is now one of the largest in the country, with 170 little wooden chalets filling the streets around Bath Abbey and offering all kinds of inspiration for that all-important seasonal shopping. There will be handmade and unique pieces, along with food and drink to enjoy, like the sweet little gingerbread house kits made by BickieBoo (seen here) – much of it produced in the south west. This year’s market runs daily from Thursday 27 November until Sunday 18 December and it makes for a great day out.

But don’t just visit the city’s famous annual market. While you’re in the Georgian city there is plenty more to see and do. If you’ve come on the train and alighted at Bath Spa station you could grab a coffee at Jika Jika’s little take-out in the square outside the station and maybe pick up a pastry from Bertinet’s independent French bakery to sustain you for the morning.

The Southgate shopping centre has all the main high street brands, from Topshop to Hollister and M&S to H&M. Keep the children happy by taking them to see Father Christmas in his new grotto, who will be visiting from 22 November right through until Christmas Eve. If you’re shopping for beautifully made toys for little ones do call into My Small World in Little Southgate.

Head on up through town, via Green Park Station. This is the home, on Saturdays of the Bath Farmers’ Market – the country’s oldest established farmers’ market – and a good place to pick up locally made cheese, vegetables with the earth still fresh on them and other produce such as game, bacon and pies. The undercover market will house a Countdown to Christmas nine-day series of markets, from Saturday 13 to Sunday 21 December.

We would advise that you book in advance if you’d like to take your date for a spin round Bath’s romantic open air ice rink in Royal Victoria Park.

Bath on Ice is now in its third year in the city and is very popular with skaters of all ages and abilities. There’s a new pizza chalet this year, or you could sup on a warming mulled wine in the undercover spectator gallery while the rest of the family whizz by on their skates.

While you’re up this end of Bath, near the famous Royal Crescent, you could play tourist and pop into No. 1 Royal Crescent museum, where between 24 November and 14 December the Georgian house will be elegantly dressed and decorated for Christmas. Nearby is Margarets Buildings, a little street of quirky, characterful and unusual independent shops – it’s also very photogenic. On your way back down, take time to get off the main drag. The Fashion Museum shop is a good place for gifts for stylish friends, while Topping & Co bookshop in the Paragon is heaven for anyone who enjoys books, with a very knowledgable staff who will offer you tea or coffee on less busy days.

From Topping turn right out of the shop and after a few yards descend a long, old flight of stone steps down to the street below. This is Walcot Street, where there’s a street market on Saturdays and all sorts of shops, such as The Yellow Shop for vintage clothes or Shannon for Scandanavian design, from Moomin mugs and candlesticks to cosy throws and hot water bottles with moose, reindeer and polar bear motifs.

Enjoy lunch at one of the city’s many independent eateries, such as Made

by Ben, an award-winning sandwich bar, or Yammo for authentic Italian grub.

And if you are staying in Bath into the evening, there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from within walking distance of the station. Or perhaps you’d like to book ahead and reserve seats at the historic Theatre Royal or enjoy comedy or live music at Komedia. And if you happen to be around on Wednesday 12 November at 5.30pm, there’s the switching on ceremony for the Christmas lights, which this year will be performed by Bath Rugby team.

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This Poppy Appeal we're asking people to not just commemorate the memory of the fallen, but also to focus on the future of the living.

Please give generously and wear your poppy with pride. www.britishlegion.org.uk

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The Northern Sky Stromness by David Smith RSW

Lime Tree Gallery, 84 Hotwell Road, Bristol BS8 4UB Tel 0117 929 2527

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CITYgardens

ARTS | & EXHIBITIONS

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AUTUMN SHOWS Willem de Rooij, Arnolfini, Friday 21 November – Sunday 8 February The first UK solo gallery exhibition by this groundbreaking Dutch artist features a politically-charged photographic work and a new installation that explores themes of individuality, protest and how single objects can carry multiple layers of meaning. He also explores the idea of ‘shared authorship’ in his artwork, which often includes the work of other artists, florists, photographers and uses artefacts from anthropological collections to create new layers of meaning. Here, he presents the photographic work Index: Riots, Protest, Mourning and Commemoration (as represented in newspapers, January 2000 – July 2002) and the Bouquet V installation. |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Josephine Pryde, Arnolfini, Friday 21 November – Sunday 22 Februrary These are Just Things I Say, They Are Not My Opinions is the premiere of an installation by this British artist that combines photographs with a three dimensional work – a minature train that can be ridden and will travel through Arnolfini’s first floor galleries, offering a unique way of viewing and experiencing the artist’s work. Known primarily for her photographic work, Pryde has developed a singular style of image making which responds to methods and ideas from, amongst other sources, advertising, fashion and portrait photography, which can be seen in a selection of her earlier works that will also be on display.

Galleries open Tuesday – Sunday, and Bank Holiday Mondays, 11am – 6pm. Tel: 0117 917 2300 or visit: www.arnolfini.org.uk.

Willem de Rooij at Arnolfini

Made in China: an Imperial Ming Vase, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Saturday 11 October – Sunday 4 January An empire the size of Europe. An economy at the heart of global trade.

A distinctive artistic style. Discover how and why this iconic blueand-white porcelain vase, on tour from the British Museum, represents a crucial period in China’s history. Open Monday – Friday 10am – 5pm, Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays 10am – 6pm.

Tel: 0117 922 3571 or visit: www.bristolmuseums.org.uk.

An Imperial Ming Vase Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

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Dylan at the BBC

by Jeff Phillips

Dylan at the BBC, Downstairs @ Artemis, Friday 17 October – Sunday 2 November A painting by Jeff Phillips depicting the famous Swansea ‘Kardomah Boys’ Dylan Thomas, Vernon Watkins, Alfred Janes, John Pritchard and Daniel Jones, is coming to Bristol where it can be seen for a short time at Artemis. This rare out of Wales appearance of the painting is part of the 100th anniversary celebrations of the birth of Dylan Thomas, which has seen it tour throughout Wales but only to this one venue in England. The Artemis display will be its final venue before it once more returns home to hang in Llys Glas Arts Centre, Swansea. Artemis Designer Jewellery and Gift Shop Gallery, 214 Gloucester Rd, Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 8NU. Tel: 0117 924 1003 or visit: www.artemisbristol.co.uk.

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ARTS | & EXHIBITIONS Winter gift ideas for friends and family at Coldharbour Framery & Gallery

Hugo Grenville: Soul by Soul and Silently, The Grand Palais Paris, Tuesday 25 – Sunday 30 November Congratulations to local artist Hugo Grenville, whose Soul by Soul and Silently, a six feet wide painting inspired by the unfolding tragedies in Syria, Iraq and Palestine, has been accepted for exhibition by the Société des Artistes Français at their annual Salon, the oldest and most prestigious exhibiting society in the world.

Grand Palais, 3 Avenue du Général Eisenhower, 75008 Paris. For further information about the artist, visit: www.hugogrenville.com.

Evening Light, Avon Gorge

by Abigail McDougall

This season the gallery is packed with affordable art and crafts, making it the perfect place to find that special gift. Regulars including Abigail McDougall and Jenny Urquhart provide a splash of bright colour with vibrant new prints, and there is a wide range of beautiful, individual pieces of ceramics ranging from Iris Milward’s poetry tiles to quirky clocks by Alice Gare, porcelain treasure boxes by Eleanor Bartleman, and a choice of unique pieces by Teän Kirby.

Coldharbour Framery & Gallery, 111 Coldharbour Road, Westbury Park, BS6 7SD. Tel: 0117 944 6244 or visit: www.coldharbourgallery.co.uk.

Hare by Iris Milward

The Journey Continues ...

Centrespace Gallery, Saturday 15 – Wednesday 19 November 7iD, a group of interdisciplinary artists from Bristol and North Somerset present their current explorations in photography, collagraph, contemporary textiles, painting, mixed media, sculpture, screen print and film.

The exhibition includes 2D and 3D collagraphs by Tina Hill, digital photography

by Dominic Hewitt, monoprints by Gail Mason, ceramic sculpture by Sara Parsons, textiles by Stephanie Wooster and Liz Hewitt, and work from guest artist Helen Burgess.

Centrespace Gallery, 6 Leonard Lane, BS1 1EA, visit: www.centrespacegallery.com.

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Ellen Southern: Engaged Voice, The Edwardian Cloakroom, Monday 10 – Sunday 16 November A site specific vocal sound work created and installed at the venue, exploring being in the space vocally.

Southern has generated all sound using nothing but her own voice and a recording device, seeking to draw attention to the space itself and open the ears to what it is like to be within it. Edwardian Cloakroom, Corner of Park Row and Woodland Road, Clifton. For more details visit: www.ellensouthern.co.uk. ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Judy Darley: Writing from Art, Paintworks, Wednesday 12 November 2pm – 5pm Fiction writer, tutor and journalist Judy’s creative writing process is often driven by images, particularly artwork. In this workshop, she provides a brief overview of the history of written books that were inspired by art, as well as exercises designed to help participants connect with the artwork surrounding them and then transform that connection into poetry, prose or journalism.

Tickets: £12, visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk. Carol Peace’s Studio, Unit 5.3 Paintworks, Bath Road, BS4 3EH.

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Jungle Boy

by William Duncan

Rainy Camping Trip Down the M5

by Helen Burgess

Exhibitions at The Grant Bradley Gallery, Saturday 8 – Saturday 29 November Living in a Magic Forest is a mixed media exhibition by William Duncan and Alex Rexende, drawing on their shared love of bold colours. Also on show is Passion, a solo exhibition by Sonya inspired by a love of all art and creation, and Out of South Africa from Bristol-based printmaker Bronwen Grover. GBG, Bedminster Parade, BS3 4AQ, visit: www.grantbradleygallery.co.uk.

Carol Peace Open Studio: Bristol Barcelona, Paintworks, Thursday 6 – Sunday 16 November

Carol Peace, Bug Girl with Wings

Internationally renowned sculptor Carol Peace’s work has often travelled the globe, and this exhibition of new pieces was made in and inspired by the 6 months she spent in Barcelona, solely to spend time looking, reflecting and working. Marking the end to an incredible year of solo exhibitions, the work now comes home to the artist’s studio. Open for just 10 days this is a chance to meet the artist, be invited into the studio and explore this new and unique body of scultpures. Tickets: £4 (£3 early bird), visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk. Carol Peace’s Studio, Unit 5.3 Paintworks, Bath Road, BS4 3EH. Open Monday – Saturday 9.30am – 5.30pm, Sunday 11am – 5pm. For more information visit: www.carolpeace.com.

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Shelter by Jessie Edward-Thomas

HAPPY BIRTHDAY To celebrate 150 years since the opening of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the Oxfam Bookshop in Clifton Village is holding a selling exhibition of photographic prints from Saturday 1 November until the new year. The £7 mounted prints, ideal as Christmas gifts, represent the best images of the bridge from a series of highly popular fundraising exhibitions held at the shop since 2010. The prints include contemporary colour and black-and-white photographs from local photographers Jon Leavins and award-winner Gary Newman, and sepia-toned reproductions of historical photographs. Proceeds will help raise funds for the fight against poverty and suffering. Oxfam Clifton Bookshop, 26 Princess Victoria Street, BS8 4BU. For more information tel: 0117 9467 926.

Misty Bridge

▲ Foto39, Christmas Steps Gallery, Tuesday 4 – Sunday 9 November, 10am – 6pm Foto39’s debut open-submission exhibition showcases work from selected artists that exemplifies an exceptional and diverse range of light-based media. The charity are committed to developing the contemporary arts culture in the South West by creating opportunities that enable talented artists from all over the world to exhibit and share their work. Visitors can expect to be provoked, surprised and inspired by the work on show, with imagery selected for its quality as well as its content. Visit: www.foto39.org.

Christmas Steps Gallery, 11 Christmas Steps, BS1 5BS. Tel: 07814 867 928 or visit: www.christmasstepsgallery.co.uk.

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COMMUNITY | ARTS

Temple Meads by Hilary Prosser

Adam and Eve by Jitka Palmer

Lady from Niger by Laura Roberston A painting by Jenny Ibrahim

Pink triangle earrings by Harriet St Leger

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COMMUNITY | ARTS

Follow the North Bristol Arts Trail Take a different path this November and discover the work of some of Bristol’s best local artists, and perhaps find an early Christmas present or two en route

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ow in its 13th year, the North Bristol Art Trail is the most established in the city. Showing work of a very high calibre in the run up to Christmas, it is a fantastic opportunity to buy unique gifts for friends and family direct from local artists at affordable prices (meaning you can justify buying a little something for yourself too).

From the jewellery of Katie Johnston and Harriet St Leger to the prints of Laura Robertson and David Parsons, textile art by Jo Hyam and Debby Bird, and the paintings of Huw Richards Evans and Jenny Urquhart – to name just a few of the well known artists taking part – there is always something to suit every taste, making the trail accessible and enjoyable for all.

St Andrews, Bishopston and Gloucester Road are the main hubs, but parts of Henleaze, Redland, Montpelier and Westbury Park will also take part in the trail. A whole weekend simply whizzes by in the joy of wandering from house to house seeing beautiful pieces, meeting new people and bumping into friends and neighbours en route.

Many of the artists are professionals and show their work year round in the gallery spaces at Gloucester Road Central, Fig, Artemis, Paper Plane and Room 212, but the trail gives you the opportunity to meet the artists in their own homes and studios. Community venues such as Horfield Baptist and St Michael’s church halls offer spaces for groups or artists, and St Bartholomew’s also supports live music throughout the weekend.

From the beginning of November you can get a taste of what will be on show by visiting the group exhibitions at Boston Tea Pary, Planet Pizza and Room 212. The new reception area at Southmead Hospital has also provided gallery space for artists since it opened earlier in the year.

The North Bristol Art Trail will take place on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November, with preview evenings at selected venues on the Friday before. Trail maps are delivered through most people’s doors prior to the weekend, or you can pick one up from many public venues, or download it from the website: www.northbristolartists.org.uk. So make a note in your diaries, and rest assured you’ll have Christmas shopping sorted early this year. n

Bristol Bikes and Buttons by Jenny Urquhart

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SCIENCE | ASTRONOMY

Orion Nebula – Hubble 2006 mosaic 18000 by NASA, ESA, M. Robberto and the Hubble Space Telescope Orion Treasury Project Team

WRITTEN IN THE STARS Over the next three months, Jenny Hayes is teaming up with At-Bristol Science Centre to transport you out of this world and into the cosmos beyond

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inter is upon us. The clocks have gone back, the heating is on, the mornings are crisp with the bite of frost in the air, and the evenings are drawing in. But don’t despair at the thought of these impending hours of darkness, as they bring with them the opportunity to discover a wonderful world beyond our own in the night sky above us.

This series will explore the stories behind some of our most well-loved constellations and the stars that comprise them. Initially, we will find out why the ancient Greeks immortalized Orion in their heavens, before learning about his faithful hunting dog, Canis Major, and finally why Taurus the bull stands as a stubborn and impenetrable sentry opposite him in the sky.

As fitting the giant of a man of which Greek myth tells, Orion’s constellation is one of the mightiest and most prominent in our winter sky and

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the brightness of his stars make him easy to spot even in the centre of Bristol.

Look out for the two that delineate either side of his broad shoulders, then follow them as they dip down to the three bright diamonds that sparkle in his belt, beneath which the gleaming line of his dagger descends. Finally, almost

What is a star?

A star is a ball of super-heated gas held together by the interaction of radiation at its core and the gravity that acts on it – as radiation pushes outwards, gravity pushes inward, resulting in a stable sphere. Our Sun is just one of around 200 billion stars in the Milky Way Galaxy, and there are more than 100 billion galaxies in the Universe.

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SCIENCE | ASTRONOMY

Orion the hunter

The stars of Orion

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directly beneath those on his shoulders, two final stars glint Such intergalactic lightshows are the largest explosions to in echo of the steely sinews that criss-crossed down his take place in space, and are caused when an old star with a muscular legs. high mass begins to collapse in on itself, creating pressure at Son of the sea god Poseidon and the beautiful nymph the core that eventually causes it to combust with The surface temperature of new Euryale, Orion was the most handsome of men and a magnificent and visually magical results. When this happens stars can exceed 10,000°C, skilled hunter. And it was not only animals he pursued, to Betelgeuse, the inhabitants of Earth will be treated to one meaning they emit energy in the having also a keen eye for attractive women, mortal or of the most beautiful and rare events ever to occur. There is ultraviolet part of the divine. But he met his match in Artemis, goddess of the the chance that we my even bear witness to the phenomenon electromagnetic spectrum and to hunt, who preferred her men to possess brains over brawn our eyes appear blue and white. In in our lifetime but, as with everything in stargazing, there and so rejected the advances of this dim-witted hulk. contrast old, large stars can have are no guarantees.

Furious to be spurned, Orion pledged to avenge his Rest assured, though, there are plenty of other events to temperatures as low as 3,000°C, wounded pride by slaughtering every animal on earth, and watch out for in the sky this November. n dropping them down into the in doing so destroying all that Artemis held dear. But infrared spectrum so they appear messing with a goddess is never a good idea, and wily red, hence the term ‘red giant’.

Artemis knew exactly how to defeat her foe, choosing as With huge thanks to Lee Pullen at the Planetarium for her weapon a small but deadly animal. She summoned a sharing his knowledge to make this series possible. If you scorpion from the earth and set it in pursuit of Orion, who foolishly paid it no would like to discover more about astronomy, visit the At-Bristol website for heed as it scuttled about his feet. As he raised his arm to smite a larger creature, details of all shows and upcoming events: www.at-bristol.org.uk the scorpion delivered its sting, the poison paralysing the hunter in the midst or tel: 0117 909 2000 of his massacre before spreading slowly, and fatally, through his blood stream.

Today, the legacy of this legend lives on in the cycle of the stars. The brave scorpion is remembered as the constellation Scorpius, which stands opposing Orion in the night sky. And, as Scorpius rises in the east Orion descends in the west, ducking his head in defeat.

The Northern Taurids meteor shower, active between The stars that comprise Orion are themselves as fabulous as the fable behind 19 October and 10 December but peaking on Wednesday them. On a moonless night, if you look midway down his dagger you will see 12 November, producing around 5 meteors each hour. a hazy glow that is the Orion Nebula, a stellar nursery in which new stars are forming. The nebula itself is a luminescent cloud of gas and dust that cocoons its young stars, mostly shielding them from sight. If you have a pair of The Rosetta probe’s Philae lander will attempt to touch binoculars, however, this is the time to dust them off and put them to use as down on the surface of comet 67P/Churyumovthey may just allow you a glimpse into this nebula, and with it a view of one Gerasimenko on Thursday 13 November. If successful it of the greatest celestial treasures in the winter sky. will make history as the first probe to land on a comet.

The opposite end of the stellar lifecycle is also visible within this constellation. Betelgeuse, representing Orion’s right shoulder, is one of the The Leonids meteor shower occurs in November each brightest stars at night and also one of the largest – our own Sun could fit inside year as the Earth passes through the debris left by the it one billion times over This iconic jewel in the sky is due to vanish from sight soon, astronomically speaking, having acquired the status of a red giant which Tempel-Tuttle comet. This year it peaks on Monday 17 signifies that it is in the final stages of stellar evolution (see Fascinating fact).

November to produce about 20 meteors each hour.

And, as is befitting to the mythological man it completes, Betelguese is due to go out with a bang in a spectacular supernova.

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Fascinating fact

LOOK OUT FOR...

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CREATIVE | PROFILE

PARADISE ON EARTH Jenny Hayes meets Keda Breeze, creative director of a visionary new Bristol-based events company

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tep through the looking glass and surrender to the surreal in the realm of Paradise Hotel, who specialise in producing spectacular, theatrical events laced with performing arts and circus skills. Each extravaganza is individually designed by Keda Breeze, who artfully blends her client’s needs with the opportunities afforded by the chosen venue, and then enlivens them with strokes of brilliance from her own vivid imagination to create a unique and truly remarkable evening.

“The look and feel of the space I’m working in dictates a lot,” explains Keda, “and I also try and relate each event to a reference from culture or literature to give them real depth. Often I’ll visit libraries, watch theatre, or visit one of the big London galleries to spark an initial idea, and then it will roll around my head and gradually grow into the final concept.”

It is this rare ability to weave inspirational ideas with everyday practicalities and achieve events that are seemingly effortless in their beauty, which both characterises and distinguishes the work of Paradise Hotel. And it stems from Keda herself, whose talent for producing evocative imagery and memorable experiences stems from her own training and background in performing arts.

“It was enrolling in a course at Circomedia in 2001 that initially brought me to Bristol,” she says. “I’d seen some of their students perform and just thought they were a cut above, so from that moment I knew I had to train there.”

Keda then went on to enjoy many successful years as a burlesque dancer – performing for rock stars and royalty at the height of her career – but it was behind the scenes, planning and developing shows, that she found really challenged her creativity. So in September 2012, after juggling life on both side of the curtain for a number of years, she finally hung up her heels and

focused on staging shows such as Hoochie Coochie, which earned her a reputation as one of the UK’s most talented cabaret producers.

Alongside possessing immense creative talent, Keda is a self-confessed perfectionist who continues to train in various performing arts while running her event company, so that she remains immersed in art, dance and physical theatre. In doing so she is continually developing new ideas to translate into Paradise Hotel events, choreographing performances that showcase a myriad of disciplines, including breathtaking aerial displays and acrobatics, fantastical interactive characters, flamboyant fire shows, bizarre cabaret acts, and pretty much anything else you could imagine.

Helping her develop and realise her vision is the exceptional Paradise Hotel team.

Comprising theatre set designers, costumiers, prop-makers, and lighting and sound technicians, they have worked alongside Keda since 2004 delivering dramatic, high-octane circus shows across the UK and beyond. They ensure all entertainment is carefully engineered to enhance the event space itself, pinpointing each building’s individual character and tailoring a show that will respond to it. While the large-scale productions mainly take place in arts and heritage spaces, the Paradise Hotel team can respond to any environment, understanding its unique atmosphere so that even the most intimate private celebration or Christmas party is infused with magic, and a dash of much-needed mayhem.

“Styling is key,” explains Keda, “so we have loads of fabulous props ready to use, and our in-house makers can also create bespoke pieces to suit each venue.” Performers are also styled in keeping with the theme of each event, with costumes combining quirky theatrics with haute couture fashion.

Although Paradise Hotel launched in October this year, its sister production company Maison Paradiso has been hosting offbeat public events across the

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KEDA IS A SELF-CONFESSED PERFECTIONIST WHO CONTINUES TO TRAIN IN PERFORMING ARTS SO THAT SHE REMAINS IMMERSED IN DANCE AND PHYSICAL THEATRE

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CREATIVE | PROFILE

STRANGE BEAUTY: main image, ballerina rabbits, by Oxana Mazur Fine Art Photography, copyright Paradise Hotel Above, final touches to perfect a costume,

by Jonathan Taphouse Right, an aerial hoop artist performs in a giant gilded cage, by Jonathan Taphouse

city for months. Grade I listed Kings Weston House played host to acrobats and artists whose performances cleverly highlighted the elegant spaces inside, including a rope dancer who hung perpendicular down the centre of the beautiful spiral staircase. The decadence of the party threw the opulence of the venue into fabulous relief, creating a deliciously devilish occasion, the likes of which hadn’t been seen inside those walls for many a decade.

So what can we expect next from Keda and her marvellous team? A Valentine’s masquerade ball at the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery sounds perfect. “Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is a truly magnificent Grade II Edwardian building of Baroque architecture,” enthuses Keda, “so naturally we were thrilled when we were asked to produce their first ever in-house, large scale, night time event.” Named The Nightingale and the Rose after an Oscar Wilde poem, the evening has an English wildlife theme fitting the incredible range of taxidermy that will be on show. n

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Paradise Hotel can provide you with all the expertise you need to make your event idea a reality, no matter how big or small. They can organise everything from pop up bars and restaurants, to sound systems and lighting, even in buildings that aren’t tailored for events. Visit: www.paradiseproductionco.com for more information on their services and forthcoming public spectaculars.

Tickets for the Valentine’s ball at Bristol Museum and Gallery are priced £18.95, visit: www.bristolmuseums.org.uk.

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FOOD | AND DRINK

WINING & DINING news and reviews Foodie events ■ Bristol founded Boston Tea Party Cafés have been named the Café Life Awards’ Coffee Bar Chain of the Year 2014. Beating the likes of Costa and Coffee #1, BTP were praised for the breadth of their menu (from coffee and cakes, to more substantial meals and a quality range of wines and craft beers). Along with the uniquely tailored nature of each café, BTP’s use of green energy and overall social responsibility impressed the judges and made them worthy winners. Visit: www.bostonteaparty.co.uk.

Flavour fusion

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lready people are referring to the area around Baldwin Street as Bristol's Italian Quarter, so what better place for the city’s newest Italian restaurant? Aquila (meaning eagle) only opened its doors at the end of October, and already its reputation for producing top quality cuisine is flying round town.

The restaurant offers a modern Italian menu Head chef Emilio Titillo at work and is headed up by executive chef Emilio Titillo, whose signature dishes include a Ragu Napolitano of tagliatelle with slow cooked brisket, pork ribs, onion and tomato, and a Cremoso Al Marscarpone that is an indulgent delight of sweet cream of Marscarpone cheese with shortcrust biscuits and an espresso shot.

Owner, Pete Dunford, sums up the ethos of Aquila when he says: “Our passion for great Italian food knows no bounds, and our commitment to bringing the best in fine dining to the people of Bristol is paramount. The old city is a very exciting place to be right now and has seen many changes recently. We are proud to be a part of those changes.” Aquila is located at 30 – 34 Baldwin St. For more details visit: www.aquila-restaurant.com.

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Happy Birthday Michael McCarlie at Chophouse

■ Chophouse’s newly appointed head chef, local boy Michael McCarlie, has launched an exciting menu of classic dishes with a modern twist, featuring seasonal produce from local producers.

“I have taken the concept of the traditional chophouse to heart,” McCarlie explains, “and designed a menu that features traditional British steakhouse food, but enhanced to please the modern palate.” To view the full menu visit: www.futureinns.co.uk.

■ Too early to think about Christmas? This might change your mind. Pieminister has launched two limited edition festive recipes that are perfect for feeding hoards of hungry house-guests, or as a cosy fireside supper. The mistlemoo is made with British beef, prosciutto and stilton, while the merry berry contains British turkey and bacon, with roast parsnips, sherry, red wine and cranberries. And worry not, perennial favourites christingle and deer santa are also back. That should bring a glow to your cheeks! www.pieminister.co.uk.

Luxury boutique chain Hotel du Vin is celebrating 20 years of bringing top quality food, drink and hospitality to the people of Britain. This winter, its Bristol bistro has launched a new approach to wining and dining to make great eats and treats available to customers and guests around the clock.

Among these new offerings is L'Entente Cordiale, that marries great British comfort dishes with classic French wines. Guests will enjoy one of many heartwarming classics, such as duck shepherd’s pie or sausage and mash, perfectly paired with a glass of house red or white wine, for lunch or dinner from just £14.95.

The new menu that runs alongside L'Entente Cordiale, showcases rich and bold flavours with Hotel du Vin signature favourites such as Escargots à la Bourguignonne. Root vegetable classics, including the parsnip and beetroot tarte tatin are in contrast to British classics such as fish pie with a mash and cheddar topping or haddock and chips. Plats principaux sees rich flavours like beef Bourguignon with Portobello mushrooms, shallots and smoked pancetta, perfectly coupled with bold wines like the Pinot Noir Byron. Dessert favourites include crêpes soufflés Suzette and tarte tatin with a crème Normande.

What’s more, a new bar menu is available with a focus on time of day so there is something to savour at any hour, from coffee and pastries in the morning, to Le Grand Fromage cheese selection after lunch. Most tempting sounding is the traditional afternoon tea with mixed finger sandwiches, scones with strawberry preserve and clotted cream, and a selection of cakes, breads and savouries, all for £15.50 per person.

Hotel du Vin, The Sugar House, Lewins Mead, BS1 2NU. To book tel: 0844 736 4252 or visit: www.hotelduvin.com.

Prestigious award for Cotham restaurant Flinty Red has been awarded a Bib Gourmand and Red Grapes from the Great Britain and Ireland Michelin 2015 Guide, in recognition of it offering good food at moderate prices.

There are just 155 restaurants in the UK with a Bib Gourmand, and only two in Bristol. Flinty Red has also retained the Red Grapes designation for its notable wine list. Chef and proprietor Matthew Williamson said: “We are extremely pleased to retain the Bib Gourmand. Customers like the informal menu format at Flinty Red and enjoy the opportunity to eat widely and in varying dish sizes.” Flinty Red, 34 Cotham Hill, BS6 6LA. Tel: 0117 923 8755 or visit: www.flintyred.co.uk. n

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A quality local independent Italian that's family run and well established.

WWW.PIAZZADIROMA.CO.UK 178 WHITELADIES ROAD, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 2XU OPEN 6PM TO 11PM TUESDAY TO SUNDAY (AND BANK HOLIDAY MONDAYS)

T: 0117 973 4183

FROM A ROMANTIC MEAL TO A PARTY BOOKING, YOU WILL BE WELL LOOKED AFTER

THE MENU

SPECIAL OFFERS PICTURES & REVIEWS

ON OUR FACEBOOK &WEBSITE

15% off your food bill (eat in or takeaway) You must have the voucher with you, voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, voucher must be presented before ordering drinks or food, only one voucher per group or table, management reserves the right to modify or cancel this offer at any time, applies to main menu only not specials board, please let us know that you are using the voucher at the time of booking to avoid disappointment.

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WINTER | RETREAT

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WINTER | RETREAT

REVIEW

A SLICE OF HEAVEN Jenny Hayes enjoys fine food and enchanting surroundings during an unforgettable weekend in the Cotswolds

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t was dark when we arrived at the Old Swan and Minster Mill, but the charms of this Cotswold retreat were already apparent in the discernible babble of the River Windrush that bisects the grounds, and the answering rustle of the leaves in the trees around us. Although only just over an hour away from Bristol, the hubbub of the city retreated with every breath of cool country air, softly infused with a scent of woodsmoke that warmed the crisp autumn evening with the promise of roaring log fires inside.

We were greeted at reception and shown to our room in the oldest part of the complex, the Old Swan, a coaching inn that dates back to 1455 and boasts an illustrious history that is hinted at in the names of the rooms within.

Rendered in the local golden stone and supported by vast oak beams that now bow gracefully inward with age, the building exudes traditional charm outside and in. Our room, a luxurious junior suite named after King Richard III, lay at the top of a winding wooden staircase and housed not only a romantic four-poster but also a mural of the sun that rather impressively dates back to the reign of Richard himself.

As well as being equipped with everything you could even contemplate needing, our room contained touches that showed a rare and very thoughtful inclination to go one step further to make guests smile, such as a plate of succulent fresh berries and a jar of crumbly dark-sugar fudge that was handmade by the chef that morning. And although room styles and sizes vary, with those in the modern Minster Mill building reflecting a brighter interior scheme of Scandinavian influence, this ability to surprise and delight guests with unexpected extras does not.

Perhaps characteristic of this welcoming atmosphere is the fact that the establishment is dog-friendly, an ethos instilled by the de Savary family who are themselves great animal lovers.

You need never be parted from your pooch, as rooms are available with direct outdoor access and pets are welcome to dine alongside guests in the informal bar area, encouraging diners to chat to one another in a way that rarely happens without furry friends around to leap over the usual stuffy social boundaries.

The relaxed ambience of this dining area is enhanced by the eclectic décor, which is at once both homey and elegant. Polished copper pots gleam as they catch the glow of the firelight, horse brasses shine on straps of soft leather and other curios twinkle under the soft light, so that everywhere you look there is something to steal your attention and spark conversation as you wait for your meal. And doing so is no small feat, the smells wafting out of the kitchen being so tantalising I demolished the bread basket and accompanying tapenade in greedy anticipation.

Luckily our wait was not a long one, and soon my husband was presented with his tomato and mozzarella starter while my own was placed before me.

Oh, what a joy it was! Plump scallops yielding under my knife with the merest tug of juicy resistance, the bite of salty chorizo beneath them and an inspired burst of peppery chicory marrying the two together. Our mains were equally outstanding, the steak and ale pie laid opposite me inducing some serious food envy until my own arrived, comprising salmon so succulent it slipped over my tongue like satin. This was juxtaposed with meaty little crayfish that paddled in happy abundance in the pool of tangy tomato bisque that surrounded them.

Nestled underneath were al dente green beans and roasted new potatoes with

crisp skins that cracked open to reveal insides fluffier than the pillows on the beds upstairs. A bottle of 2012 Australian Pinot Noir proved a pleasingly bright, bold and uncomplicated companion to our meal.

At that point I could have stopped, but who can resist the lure of a delicious dessert menu? Not me, so I ordered a fig and walnut mille feuille that was simply spectacular. The delicate tower of wafer thin pastry toppled under my spoon to reveal spiced fig wrapped in a velvet cloud of mascarpone. The cool pear and raspberry flavours of the accompanying sorbet were to die for. And believe me, someone would have done if they’d dared steal a bite from my plate.

It is no wonder the food is so good, as every dish is devised by celebrated international chef David Mwiti. Committed to using local produce, David’s menus change daily in accordance with the ingredients that come in fresh each morning. His hands-on approach is apparent, so much so we even saw him picking herbs in the kitchen garden one afternoon.

This garden is just one of a myriad of outdoor spaces that are as individual as the interior areas. A stroll through the 65 acres of grounds will take you past a whimsical garden temple that sits beneath weeping willows on the banks of the Windrush, beyond which a collection of beehives can be glimpsed. We enjoyed a drink in the beer garden adjacent to the Old Swan, entertained by the resident robins that chirruped in the trees and boldly bounced from table to chair around us. There is also a duck pond and chicken coops to explore, and I even experienced a distinctly Alice in Wonderland moment when unexpectedly I found myself beside a giant chess set.

Badminton, tennis and fly-fishing are all available on-site to keep both adults and older children amused, and if you have little ones there is a family room complete with blackboard walls to scribble all over (oh, and toys for the kiddies too...) Or why not indulge in a treatment at the spa? I did and spent a blissful hour under the hands of an expert therapist who soothed my weary muscles and frayed nerves with the help of indulgent YonKa products.

Throughout our stay, attentive hosts were on hand to ensure we could want for nothing.

They are unfailingly friendly and whatever your request – whether it be for an extra pot of coffee over breakfast, or to borrow racquets for a spot of tennis after lunch – you are made to feel it is no trouble at all. This gratious attitude was apparent in every member of staff we encountered, as was a welcome sparkle of wit that lent a very personal touch to our weekend, making it all the more memorable..

And with the weeks until Christmas steadily ebbing away, there’s no better time to plan a timely escape to one of the most beautiful spots in the UK. You could even take the pressure off the big day itself by joining the Old Swan’s three night Christmas House Party, or celebrate the coming of 2015 with the New Year House party packages? Don’t hesitate, these rooms will be snapped up fast. n

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...THROUGHOUT OUR STAY, ATTENTIVE HOSTS WERE ON HAND TO ENSURE WE COULD WANT FOR NOTHING

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The Old Swan and Minster Mill also has exceptional conference facilities that offer a range of spaces which can be adapted to all business needs, and is also a truly stunning setting for weddings. For more details and prices visit: www.oldswanandminstermill.com or call 01993 774 441.

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BRISTOL | HISTORY

WHAT’S IN A NAME? As part of a series of features looking at the significance and origins of place names in Bristol, Becky Elliot looks at the history of Temple Meads

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emple Meads is today synonymous with Brunel’s beautiful station, which he built in 1839–1841 to accommodate the trains that ran on his 7ft broad gauge Great Western Railway. Unfortunately, up north his rival Robert Stevenson had been building many miles of track according to his own 4ft 8in narrow gauge specifications, eclipsing the distance of that created by Brunel to such an extent that, in 1892, the latter’s system was replaced so that trains could run smoothly up and down the country.

But we need to travel back further in time to uncover the reason behind the name of this area, which means Temple Meadow. ‘Meads’ itself is Anglo Saxon for meadow, and the ‘Temple’ section harks back to the 12th century when it was home to an order of crusaders, the Knights Templar. Originally established in France in 1118 following the Christian capture of Jerusalem 19 years earlier, the role of these militiamen was to protect pilgrims travelling to the Holy city from the obstacles and bandits they would encounter en route. As their duty lay in paving the path to God, they were granted the status of a monastic order, exceptional only in the fact that they had the right to bear arms.

So how did these knights end up living in Bristol? It is likely that the contingent who settled here consisted of retired members of the order, who had fulfilled their quota of three land campaigns and two at sea and were now responsible for maintaining the day-to-day income of the Templars through agriculture and trade. Local landowner Robert de Berkeley granted them land on his Manor of Bedminster, where they built a communal hall, 28 houses and a small church, the outline of which can still be seen

inside the ruins of Temple Church. What will strike visitors is that this original structure was round, now considered an unusual shape for a church but at the time characteristic of all Templar places of worship, which were inspired by the Anastasis of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.

As with so many epochs in Bristol’s history, that of the Knights Templar most likely occurred due to its desirability as a thriving commercial port. The nearby Cotswolds supplied vast amounts of wool to the knights in Bristol (giving rise to a textile industry that endured until industrialisation in the 19th century) which they then traded abroad. Many street names that survive in the area were coined during this time, such as Tucker Street, reportedly a corruption of Toucker Street which was the name given to the district where immigrant cloth workers from Le Toque in Normandy came and settled in the 1330s.

The earliest records in which the name of neighbouring Temple Street crop up date from 1248, when a young boy was crushed under a pillory that fell on him when two Templar horses, startled by something in the street, bolted and pulled down the structure they had been tethered to. Law at that time stated that, when an inanimate object caused a death, a fine based on the valuation of the object was payable for the departed – in this case ten shillings for the horses and two shillings for the pillory. But the knights considered themselves answerable only to God, not the trifling laws of town officials, and refused to pay. Needless to say, such acts made them unpopular in the eyes both the burgesses of Bristol and the locals.

Such grievances plagued the Templars’ presence in the city until the Pope

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THE PRESENCE OF THE KNIGHTS TEMPLAR GAVE RISE TO BRISTOL’S TEXTILE INDUSTRY, WHICH ENDURED INTO THE 19TH CENTURY

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BRISTOL | HISTORY

Main image, View of a Cottage near the Dam, in Temple Meads, by Hugh O’Neil 1822 Above, Temple Meads station today Right, Temple Street, showing the Tower of Temple Church by Thomas Leeson Rowbotham, 1828

dissolved their order in 1307, due to the alarming amount of wealth it had accrued and the near tyrannical power it wielded over some of the most influential rulers of Europe. Subsequently their lands, but not their wealth, were passed on to another crusader order, the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem (Knights Hospitaller).

It was these men who controlled the Bristol land until the Reformation of the 16th century, when Henry VIII seized control of all monastic property, and they who left an enduring legacy in the area.

Temple Church, built by the Knights Hospitaller from 1390– 1460, was dedicated to St Catherine the Patron Saint of Weavers in tribute to the workers of the cloth trade that had been established by their earlier Templar counterparts. Although badly bombed during the Second World War, the ruins still boast a

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leaning tower that has drawn comparison with that in Pisa. This was a result of subsidence that occurred shortly after the church was built on marshland, without adequate foundations. It was reinforced in 1460 to prevent further damage, but Bristolians have this early example of engineering ineptitude to thank for this distinctive addition to the city skyline. n Images courtesy of Bristol Museums, Galleries and Archives.

For more information about their collections visit: www.bristolmuseums.org or tel: 0117 922 3571

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WHAT’S | NEW

Five Rivers fostering turns 25

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social enterprise with a strong local foundation has successfully helped hundreds of children over 25 years in service. Five Rivers was founded in 1989 to provide local authorities with a specialised therapeutic service for children who had been traumatised by earlier abuse.

They train and support foster carers to work with some of the most distressed youngsters in our communities, providing the children with a wide range of specialist clinical and educational support to help them thrive.

Five Rivers has celebrated 25 years with a series of roadshows around the country, which commenced with a talk from founder, Pamela McConnell about the history and importance of the organisation and why these children need and deserve to be loved and cared for by people who can rise to the challenge of being parents and educators to help turn children’s lives around.

If you would like to find out more, tel: 01858 412765 or visit: www.five-rivers.org/fostering.

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■ Clifton Ceramics & Fine Jewellery is celebrating 10 years at its premises in Clifton Village with special offers and discounts throughout November, so keep an eye on its website for upcoming news.

It stocks an extensive range of highly collectable Moorcroft pottery, beautiful Elliot Hall handpainted enamels, the popular Winstanley pottery cats from Norfolk, and a covetable selection of new and vintage fine diamond jewellery including rings, bracelets and pendants adorned with tanzanites, sapphires and other precious stones.

Browsers and collectors are always welcome to drop in and have a look at the latest pieces. The shop is open from Tuesday to Saturday, and is located at 58 The Mall, Clifton Village. Tel: 0117 373 0256 or visit: www.cliftonceramics.co.uk.

Blooming marvellous – Bristol gardeners scoop Gold Award St Peter’s Hospice in Brentry was awarded first place in the Commercial Business category of this year’s Bristol in Bloom competition.

Hospice gardener, Sarah Townsend, said: “It’s fantastic news that St Peter’s Hospice has achieved another Gold Award from Bristol in Bloom this year. All the volunteers and myself work hard to make the gardens a pleasant place for all to enjoy and we are very proud of the achievement.”

As Bristol’s only adult hospice, St Peter’s Hospice cares for more than 2,670 patients each year, as well as supporting family members. All services are provided free of charge, and the hospice relies on charitable giving. For more information about their work, visit: www.stpetershospice.org.uk.

Sporting gesture from local company ■ Venture Insurance, an independent broker in Clifton, has given its sponsorship of a Bristol Rugby player to local charity Penny Brohn Cancer Care, a gesture that has already helped raise more than £900 for the cause.

Directors at Venture Insurance already sponsor the club’s first team fly-half Matthew Morgan, so decided to donate sponsorship of second row player Ben Glynn when they won the prize in a preSimon James of Venture Insurance, Emma Smith of Penny Brohn and Ben Glynn of Bristol Rugby season draw.

Simon James, managing director at Venture Insurance, said: "It was easy to pick Penny Brohn Cancer Care as the benefactors of our win. And from touring their amazing centre and learning more about their work, we couldn't be more pleased. We’re looking forward to working with the club and the charity on further initiatives throughout the season."

For more information about Penny Brohn visit: www.pennybrohncancercare.org, for Venture Insurance visit: www.ventureins.co.uk and for Bristol Rugby Club visit: www.bristolrugby.co.uk.

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OUR YOUNG HEROES Nominations are now open for the Bristol Young Heroes Awards, which will take place on Saturday 28 March 2015.

The awards recognise the valuable contribution that young people (aged 11 – 19) make to the city – particularly those who have overcome difficult circumstances, made a difference in the lives of others, or achieved great things.

Local community groups, schools, charities and churches are invited to nominate young people for an award in the relevant category, and then a panel will choose three nominees for each award, one of whom will be the winner.

All nominees will attend the award ceremony as guests of honour. The event will take place at The Bristol Hotel and include a formal dinner and live entertainment.

To nominate a young person, or to book your tickets for this worthwhile local event visit: www.bristolyoungheroesawards.co.uk.

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INPLAY GOLF Cathedral Walk, Harbourside, BS1 5LN. Tel: 0117 922 7244, www.inplaygolf.co.uk

REVIEW

Will Dodd tackles some of the professional courses available at Bristol’s first virtual golf centre

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windy, rainy day at the beginning of October may not immediately have you thinking ‘golf’, but fortunately Bristol’s first indoor golf simulation facility may provide the answer. InPlay golf, situated on Cathedral Walk in Harbourside, provides a welcoming and relaxed environment to hone your skills, or try your hand swinging a club for the first time.

We were greeted on arrival by two of the owners Paul and Nicky Barrington and after a quick coffee to warm up they talked us through what they can offer. A total of six separate simulator bays (two of which are three-sided surround screens in a private glassed area) allow you to choose between 150 different courses worldwide, as well as a driving range, closest to the pin, and long drive options. Each bay comes with a full set of Titleist clubs, so unless you wish to bring your own set, everything is provided for you. The simulators can all be linked, allowing larger groups to play the same course, with a leaderboard showing in each of the linked bays, and the whole venue can be booked for corporate or social functions.

We started on the driving range and after hitting a few shots each, Paul talked us through the statistics that were being displayed on the screen, showing swing path, speed, face angle and a multitude of other useful data for the golf enthusiast, as well as being an excellent tool in finding the correct specifications for your clubs (a full custom club fitting service is available) and even helping you decide which ball would suit your game. After a quick closest to the pin contest, we were ready to play. As my friend and I would be generously described as ‘inconsistent’ golfers, Nicky suggested we play a few holes at Pebble Beach, one of the more forgiving courses available, and we were even able to choose our preferred weather conditions (calm and sunny please). Within the first couple of holes we had got to grips with how everything worked, and despite the impressive technology being employed, actually playing and using the simulators could not have been simpler. Placing the ball on the mat and hitting to your target, high speed cameras track the flight of your ball and extrapolate the data to accurately show you the ball sailing off down the fairway (or flying into the nearest lake) and from there

you play your approach shots, chip and even putt. Nicky also showed us the ‘mulligan’ feature, whereby you can replay a shot without penalty if you make a mess of it – needless to say this was employed rather more often than I’d like to admit. Paul and Nicky were always on hand to provide answers to any questions and check that all was going well and we had all that we needed, as well as getting a few tips from Paul if he was passing by which were greatly appreciated.

The clean modern set-up, fully licensed bar and shop, as well as the ability to practice your golf whatever the weather or time constraints should appeal to many, but the relaxed and unintimidating atmosphere of inPlay golf is where it really shines. Whether you are a serious golfer wanting to fine tune your game, looking for state of the art lessons with qualified professionals, or just wanting to have some fun with friends and family, the staff at inPlay golf will be happy to accommodate you. n

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STATISTICS DISPLAYED ON THE SCREEN SHOWED A MULTITUDE OF USEFUL DATA FOR THE GOLF ENTHUSIAST

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Prices start from £15 for a single-screen simulator at off peak times.

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FAMILY | WHAT’S ON

ACTIVITY PLANNER There’s lots of events to keep your little ones occupied this November, and they’ll all entertain the grown ups too 101 Dalmations at Tobacco Factory Theatre

Deeply Creepy at Bristol Aquarium

Deeply Creepy, Bristol Aquarium, Saturday October 25 – Sunday 2 November, from 10am Step inside the spooky sunken shipwreck and embark on a Halloween-themed voyage of discovery featuring eerie encounters with a cast of fishy fiends including awesome octopus, electric eels, wolf fish, piranhas and jellyfish.

There’s a petrifying programme of terrifying talks, frightening feeding demonstrations, weird workshops and tortuous trails to enjoy every day. There’s also over 40 amazing displays, an underwater walkthrough tunnel and giant open top tanks to explore. Come face to face with thousands of amazing sea creatures; from tropical sharks and stingrays to giant octopus and elegant seahorses. For more information tel: 0117 929 8929 or visit: www.bristolaquarium.co.uk.

Desh, M Shed, Saturday 1 November, 10am – 6pm Talks, performances and family-friendly activities to celebrate the launch of Desh, a new creative project exploring and celebrating South Asian culture in Bristol and beyond. Entry is free, just drop in. For more information tel: 0117 352 6600 or visit www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/mshed.

Desh at M Shed

Coppelia, Bristol Hippodrome, Tuesday 4 – Friday 7 November, 2pm & 7.30pm A charming, comic tale of an eccentric toymaker and his mechanical doll. Dr Coppélius, the toymaker, has created the lifelike Coppélia doll and wishes for nothing more than to bring her to life. He thinks his dream has finally come true, but he has merely been caught up in a lovers’ tiff. Love triumphs over all in this comedy of mistaken identity and the finale is a breathtaking celebration of the lovers’ marriage.

It is a heartwarming family ballet, perfect for young and old alike. Tickets: £11.90 – £48.90 from the box office on tel: 0844 871 3012 or visit: www.atgtickets.com.

Hestercombe Christmas Market, Saturday 15 November, 10am – 7pm and Sunday 16 November, 10am – 5pm Bursting with fresh ideas, this is a magical way to start your Christmas shopping. Delight in over 60 stalls with homemade and handmade gifts to tempt in a festive setting accompanied by seasonal choirs in the lavishly decorated courtyard, mince pies, mulled wine and traditional treats from the Stables Kitchen. The Hestercombe shop will also be decked with twinkling Christmas gifts. Children will love writing their letters to Father Christmas and

A BEDTIME STORY FROM BRISTOL...

Goram and Ghyston: The Bristol Giants by Oliver Rigby, illustrated by Tom Bonson The legend of Goram and Ghyston, and how the Avon Gorge was formed, has been part of our city’s folklore for hundreds of years and was once a common bedtime story. Inspired by trips to Blaise Castle and the Clifton Suspension Bridge, author Oliver found himself re-imagining the tale of the giants and thinking that it should be revived and once again told to our young Bristolians. With beautiful illustrations by talented young artist Tom Bonson, this book will set your children’s imaginations running wild around the Bristol landscape that surrounds them.

Available from Thursday 13 November in local bookshops, Waterstones and WH Smith.

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posting them in the Hestercombe post box.

Tickets: £3 online or £3.50 on the door visit: www.hestercombe.com.

Bedminster Baby & Child Fair, Sunday 16 November, 10am – 2pm Tons of products and services for little people are brought together under one roof at this lively fair. Not only is it a great opportunity to pick up gifts and products, but also a chance to try out some of the best classes and fun activities for kids in the area. There will be a huge selection of nearly new tables, selling baby and children’s items, as well as face painting and special appearances from Alice in Wonderland, the White Rabbit and the Queen of Hearts to keep the little ones amused. Refreshments and cakes also available. Tickets: £1, children free.

Limited parking available on site.

101 Dalmations, Tobacco Factory Theatre, Wednesday 26 November – Sunday 11 January Travelling Light Theatre is working with Tobacco Factory Theatres to present this wellloved children’s favourite. Told with creative storytelling, original live music and a lot of laughs, it will be warm-hearted, playful, and of course full of dalmations. Tickets: £8 – £19 (family tickets are also available) from the box office on tel: 0117 902 0344 or visit: www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com.

The Magic Elves, Bristol Old Vic, Wednesday 26 November – Saturday 3 January, various times The Bristol Old Vic Studio will be transformed into a magical winter playground, where the Magic Elves love playing, dancing and being very, very silly. But when they move into a rundown old shoe shop they get a shock. Not everyone is as happy as they are. The shoemaker has forgotten how to laugh and it’s been years since he threw shapes on the dance floor. Can the Magic Elves put a smile on his face and a spring in his step in time for the Christmas disco? Tickets: £13 adult, £7.50 child, under 2s go free. For more information or to book call the box office on tel: 0117 987 7877 or visit www.bristololdvic.org.uk.

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Osaka Range

Are you looking for new lighting for any area at the home?

Are you overwhelmed with the options available?

Can’t find the solution to your problem?

Come and see the experts to help you through the options available.

We have one of the largest displays in our freshly refitted showroom Lighting design service available.

Our showroom displays fittings from the UK, European and Worldwide sources.

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Tel: 0117 963 5943 • Fax: 0117 963 4735 Unit 2, Sheene Way, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 4TA Free Car Parking Available Email: enquiries@lightingwarehousebristol.co.uk Web: www.lightingwarehousebristol.co.uk LIGHT FITTINGS WALL LIGHTS TABLE & FLOOR LAMPS MIRRORS & GLASS FURNITURE

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Opening hours: Mon - Sat 9:00am - 5:30pm

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Mum, voiceover artist and BBC Radio Bristol presenter, Faye Dicker, meets the Bristol businesses that make family life easier...

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hen I was pregnant with my first born, Jemima, I wanted to make a gift for my unborn baby. Though I’m not a natural with a needle and thread, for some reason, I felt the urge to make her a blanket.

So my mum and I carefully chose the fabric, wadding and edging and made her a baby blanket. It was just something I had to do.

It would seem I’m not alone in this feeling. In fact, as Misty Tunks from Makey Mama explains, there was a study in 2006 that found pregnant women learn to multi-task more and use parts of their brain differently, in short be more creative. Or, as some people might call it, ‘nesting’.

For Misty it was while she was gestating her own little girl that the idea for her business, Makey Mamas, also germinated. A ‘mama in the making’ herself, she realised there was a need in pregnant women and new mums to be creative, but no service to provide for it. With a background in arts and sustainability, and a dab hand with a camera, it seemed an obvious progression for her.

Makey Mamas offers creative workshops for pregnant women and mums of young babies. So you can learn new skills and make lovely things for your bumps and babies, while relaxing with other mums. I can’t think of anything nicer. What a lovely way to spend a couple of hours, crafting away with friends, making beautiful things for your baby.

Lets face it, in the fast pace of every day life, it’s hard to shoe horn in time to be creative. With Makey Mamas, it’s made easy. Workshops range from how to photograph your pregnant bump, to natural product making – such as butters and balms. Rather wonderfully, the beeswax used in the natural products comes from Misty’s own bees.

As I’m writing, there is a little pot of lip balm sitting on my desk, which was a homemade present from Misty. It’s perfect at this time of year and I’ve reached for it several times. Every time I open it, I can’t resist sniffing up the coconut smell and the consistency is far nicer than any shop bought product – and also far less greasy.

In fact, that’s what makes these products feel even nicer – despite being a makey mama, Misty doesn’t sell any of her products, just the skills to make them. And there’s no need to worry about remembering it all, every workshop includes handouts and follow up emails, to help you practice your new found craft at home.

So with all these natural products, does this mean that Misty’s daughter has the smoothest bottom in Bristol? She likes to think so! She’s often trying out new recipes and asking people if they can guess what ingredients are in things.

Passionate about sustainability, for Misty making is a whole way of life. Plus she makes it easy for others to learn, as she holds her classes in the warm environment of Kudacan, just off the Gloucester Road, with each lasting between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on the class. They’re affordable too, with prices ranging from £15 to £25.

While I can only dream of becoming as creative as Misty is, just looking at the Makey Mamas website fills me with inspiration. I might not have picked up a needle and thread since having Jemima, but I’ll soon be making my own natural products for Suki! n

Visit: www.freelancemum.co.uk WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK

By Headmaster of Monmouth School, Dr Steven Connors

Education down to a fine science A

t Monmouth School, we pride ourselves on preparing students to make their mark in life, and the world of science is one which many of the boys will join.

Amid national concerns that science in education was failing to provide the high quality scientists we will need in the future, Monmouth School has become an innovative leader in the STEM subjects. In 2008, we established the Monmouth Science Initiative (MSI) to bridge the gap between A levels and undergraduate courses and encourage more pupils to consider a career in the sciences. The aim was to make science exciting – and after six years of going from strength to strength, we feel we are truly succeeding. MSI is a constantly evolving programme for sixth formers with high aspirations who are taking two or more science A levels. Working closely with Cardiff University, the scheme allows students to conduct experiments and carry out research which goes way beyond the A level curriculum. We have been able to extend MSI to pupils from six state schools in the Monmouth area.

With help from our sister school, Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls, the schools meet weekly to carry out complex experiments not usually tackled in school laboratories. As well as giving likeminded children the chance to learn from each other, the meetings fuel their passion for the sciences and open their eyes to different branches such as medicine, biosciences and pharmacy.

Every term, over 40 teenagers from the schools visit some of Cardiff University’s laboratories to work under the guidance of experienced staff.

MSI has been recognised as sector-leading practice in a report produced by the Welsh Assembly, proof that Monmouth School’s desire to be at the forefront of science education is a reality. Even as Monmouth School embarks on its fifth century of teaching, it remains a place where tradition and innovation combine to enthuse pupils. *The Schools are now planning to extend their bus route to cover Cribbs Causeway.

For more information, visit habs-monmouth.org, call 01600 710433 for Monmouth School or 01600 711104 for HMSG. NOVEMBER 2014

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Life is for living At Riversway Nursing Home quality of life means everything.

At Riversway Nursing Home quality of life means everything.

Our well-established, purpose-built home provides nursing care for a range of people with different physical needs, including younger people and those with dementia.

Dedicated, highly skilled staff provide a wide range of person-centred services for adults and older people with needs including general nursing care, planned respite care, end of life care and dementia care.

But no matter what care you require, we believe that every single person joins our community to continue their lifestyle and enjoy as much independence as possible.

Joining our community

Our staff are dedicated to providing high quality support for residents, their carers and relatives. Riversway’s philosophy is that people are individuals who deserve dignity, respect and person-centered care in a homely environment.

We want residents to live as full and enjoyable a life as possible, and we have our own unique lifestyle support team which works with small groups and individuals to continue their interests and hobbies.

Music and dance are always a popular activity and we have a number of regular entertainers who visit to sing a selection of popular songs. It’s not just our residents who are quickly up and dancing – the staff love the visits just as much.

Visitors to Riversway might be surprised to see our physiotherapist, Andy, putting 82 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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residents through their paces with equipment including weights, boxing gloves, pads and trampolines. This is a popular activity which fills the home with energy and laughter.

Out and about

As Riversway is sited in bustling Bristol, we make sure that we organise trips to a number of the city’s sights as often as we can. Recent visits have seen a group of residents attend the jaw-dropping Moscow State Circus which recently visited, taking in the trapeze artists and clowns.

One recent trip saw our residents take in the sights and sounds of bustling Westonsuper-Mare, and to the popular Bristol walking spot, Troopers Hill overlooking the River Avon with a great mix of history and wildlife.

Many of our residents love gardening, so Whitehall Garden Centre played host to a trip by staff and residents, who were particularly drawn to the colourful flower displays.

One of our most popular activities was an unusual visit by ZooLab, a company which specializes in educational and therapeutic sessions working with animals. Their experts brought animals including a snake, rat, hermit crab, giant African snails and millipede to see us, and they really were the stars of the show.

History was brought to life for us on a recent trip to Bitton Railway Station, an original Midland Railway station which has been painstakingly restored by volunteers to keep the flavor of a local station in its heyday.

In their own words.

Families often write with kind words for our staff – below are just a few examples.

“A heart-felt thank you for all the loving care you all gave to mum and also the fun you shared with her – you are all stars.”

“Everything you did for dad was very much appreciated. You didn’t know the real man but from the way you spoke to him and the way he responded to you I guess you got a glimpse of the man he was. Thank you.”

“A card cannot really do justice to the depth of gratitude we feel to you all. When mum came to Riversway at the age of 100 you quickly made her feel at home. Mum told me how much she appreciated you all when I phoned her each day and I know she touched the hearts of many people. At the end of her life you could not have done more to make her feel comfortable or to help and support her better…

So a peaceful end to a wonderful life. Thank you so very much.”

For further information, please contact us: Riversway Nursing Home Crews Hole Road, St George, Bristol, BS5 8GG wwww.riverswaycare.com info@riverswaycare.com Tel: 01179 555758 /riverswaycarehome @Springhill_Care

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HEALTH | & BEAUTY

NEWS IN BRIEF ■ Bristol salon McQueens will be celebrating its 25th year on Park Street this December. As well as providing top-class hairdressing to their clients over the years, salon owner Emma Choremi offers a number of other services such as Great Lengths hair extensions, which provide anyone who struggles with growing their own hair with a great alternative. In testimony to their work, the salon was awarded Best Newcomer at the Great Lengths UK Awards earlier this year, and achieved prestigious Gold status endorsement from the brand. Emma now has a reputation in Bristol as the go-to specialist for dream hair. To help celebrate this amazing win, Emma and her team are offering a free £25 voucher towards hair enhancements at each consultation, plus a goody bag of luxury hair products. And if you mention you are a reader of The Bristol Magazine, you can also enjoy an extra styling session if you book in for a colour with Leon.

To make an appointment tel: 0117 925 4864.

FIT & FAB The latest health and beauty news in the city

Products we’re loving this month...

The party season is here, so splash out on some gorgeous products that really up the glam factor...

Emma Choremi ■ Fed up with the daily bind of shaving? Had enough of painful waxing treatments? Then perhaps it’s time to consider a longer lasting method of dealing with unwanted hair. Laser hair removal is ideal for women and men looking for a permanent solution. It’s fast, efficient and predictable, which is why it is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the UK and USA today. If it is something you’d like to try or discuss, get in touch with the Quinn Clinic in Clifton, which is offering 20% off courses of laser hair removal throughout November if you book during its ‘off peak’ hours of 10am –2pm, weekdays only. Visit: www.bristollaserhairremoval.co.uk or tel: 0117 924 4592.

The Quinn Clinic

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• Perfect as an early Christmas present (to yourself) Benefit Fun-Size Flirts is filled with tempting teasers to prime, perfect and perk-up your complexion. Available from Boots, House of Fraser, Debenhams, Harvey Nichols and John Lewis, and online at: www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk, £29.50.

• Keep your skin looking divine with the new Whipped Shea Butter range from L’Occitane laboratory.

It contains shower foam, hand lotion and this light as air body cream that is easily absorbed and smells scrumptious. Available from L’Occitane, Park Street, £18.

• Make your peepers pop with new Long-Wear Gel Sparkle from Bobbi Brown, a handy little product that doubles as both shadow and liner. Exclusive to House of Fraser, £20.

• Instantly revitalise post-party skin with Neal Yard’s Frankincense Intense Concentrate. Packed full of natural ingredients and peptides, it delivers instant radiance and long-term age defying effects. Available from Neal’s Yard, Whiteladies Road, £65.

Wave goodbye to uncomfortable wires...

Let’s face it ladies, a dodgy bra can ruin your day. And more often than not it is underwire digging into your ribs that causes the most pain. But worry not, Triumph have come up with a solution with their new Magic Wire bra, which gives all the support you need without requiring wires.

Instead innovative silicon strips are used in conjunction with a built-in mesh stabiliser to keep your boobs and your mood uplifted all day long.

The lovely lingerie team at John Lewis Cribbs Causeway will be happy to measure you up and advise on which size of Magic Wire bra will be best for you. So what are you waiting for? Banish that underwire for good! To make an appointment tel: 0117 959 1100.

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HEALTH | & BEAUTY

CLEAN SLATE Rachelle Howells, manager of Beyond Beauty at Harvey Nichols Bristol, picks her must-have products for a straight-off-the-catwalk look this winter

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ake your cue from fashion’s love of minimal and opt for countless shades of grey this season, from shimmering silver to dramatic slate. Inspired by the likes of DKNY, Donna Karan, Kenneth Cole, Chloe and Ralph Lauren, the look is super chic, elegant, and as stylish as it gets... í˘ą ě?‡ ě?‹ í˘´ ě?„ ě?‚ ě?† ě?Š ě?Ž ě?… ě?ˆ ě?‰

Sisley Phyto-Kohl Perfect eye pencil, £33.50 Laura Mercier Caviar eye colour, £20.50 Laura Mercier Flawless Fluid foundation, £34 NARS eye paint, £18.50 NARS eye shadow, £18 NARS nail polish, £14.50 Radical anti-aging restorative moisturiser, £100 Tom Ford Grey Vetiver, £62 (50ml) Only Fingers + Toes nail lacquer, £16 Shu Uemura long wear drawing pencil, £17.50 La Prairie Silver Rain EDP, £102 (50ml) Benefit They’re Real mascara, £19.50

All products are available in the ground floor beauty hall at Harvey Nichols Bristol

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hair

CARLO &beauty M

MOROCCANOIL ®

Stockists

Main stockists of REDKEN

Tel: 0117 968 2663 • www.carlohairandbeauty.co.uk 6 Rockleaze Rd, Sneyd Park, Bristol BS9 1NF

Love your teeth, your Lovesmile , Love your dentist.

The Redland Road Dental Practice 89a Redland Road

Emergency, preventive, cosmetic, implants, sedation, whitening and general dentistry.

0117 924 6070 | redlanddental.co.uk WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

TALKING MEN’S HEALTH D

o you find yourself getting up at night a lot to go to the bathroom? Is the Gents the first place you look for when you visit a new restaurant or public place? The need to go to the toilet urgently or frequently isn't just another sign of getting older or something you have to ‘put up with’ according to Mr Hashim Hashim at Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital The Chesterfield.

Mr Hashim is a nationally and internationally renowned Consultant Urological Surgeon who specialises Mr Hashim Hashim in Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms including urinary incontinence and benign prostate diseases. He said: “12% of the population suffers from an overactive bladder and this increases to as much as 30% when it comes to men over the age of 65 experiencing general bladder issues”; yet it's a condition which goes largely untreated.

“In my experience, a lot of men think bladder problems are just a part of the ageing process and not something to bother their doctor with.

Others find them embarrassing to talk about and some are worried they are a sign of prostate cancer and are too nervous to go to their GP in case they get this diagnosis.”

In fact, about 75% of men will suffer from lower urinary tract symptoms such as an urgent or frequent need to pee, or incontinence, and this is usually related to the bladder. They can also suffer with difficulty in passing urine, having to wait and push to empty their bladders. This may be related to a benign enlargement of the prostate. Now this might sound worrying but all it means is the prostate has become enlarged and it can cause a blockage to the bladder, as the bladder empties. Both the bladder and prostate problems can be treated with medication.

“Needing to go to the toilet a lot - or on the flipside, struggling to go at all or experiencing pain when you do - might not sound like a serious health issue but it can considerably reduce a man's quality of life.

“Many of the patients I see have experienced problems for years before WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK

seeking help and there’s just no need for them to have been suffering in silence for so long. They should see their GPs who can often help them and if they can’t then they can be referred to a specialist in the hospital.

“If you have problems with needing to get up in the night multiple times to go to the toilet or often feel the need to rush to the bathroom long before your bladder should feel full, there's a few simple lifestyle changes you can try to ease the symptoms. Avoiding caffeine, making sure to empty your bladder fully before going out or to bed, steering clear of fizzy drinks, stopping smoking and losing weight can all help.

“If you've been experiencing problems for some time or its affecting your day-to-day life, then it's time to get medical advice and support.

“The most important thing to remember is that Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms do not mean you have cancer. While they can sometimes be a symptom of this, and it’s important to get the diagnosis quickly, more often than not they will be linked to a benign cause which can be treated with medication and most likely without surgery.”

Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital The Chesterfield is hosting a free Meet the Experts - Men's Health event on Thursday 6 November from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. The event is open to everyone and offers the chance to meet with Mr Hashim, as well as Mr Koupparis, both experts in Urology.

For more information visit www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/bristol or call 0117 911 3864.

Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital The Chesterfield, 3 Clifton Hill, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1BN Tel: 0117 911 3864 • www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/bristol NOVEMBER 2014

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THE RETREAT AT ATELIER 14 Regent Street, Clifton Village, BS8 4HG. Tel: 0117 973 4142, www.atelierclifton.co.uk

REVIEW

© Jon Pratt at Thru A Lupe Photography

Jenny Hayes tries Ayurvedic massage at Atelier’s gorgeous new spa

I

have been a fan of Atelier – owned by Bristol Hairdresser of the Year 2014, Ella Hawkey – since the salon opened earlier this year. The talented team are both incredibly creative and unfailingly good fun, ensuring I always leave with amazing hair and the rather lovely feeling that I’ve just enjoyed a much-needed catch up with friends. So when I heard Ella was opening a luxury spa below it this autumn, I was first in line to secure an appointment.

Treatments on offer at The Retreat include O.P.I manicures and pedicures, as well as a range of massages and facials using internationally renowned REN products. As typifies the ethos of Atelier, however, there is also something a little bit different on offer – Ayurvedic massage. This ancient Indian holistic therapy is still not widely available in the UK so, always eager to try something new, I booked in for the 90-minute full body marma abhyanga.

Charlotte, Atelier’s charming therapist, met me at reception and led me away from the hustle and bustle outside toward an unassuming looking door at the back of the salon. But behind that door lay another world. As we descended a dark bronze staircase softly illuminated under the warm orange glow of a cluster of oversize lightbulbs, I realised how the spa got its name. With every step downwards I felt my hectic day retreat as I became cocooned in the reassuring calm of this gorgeous subterranean space. The modern opulence that distinguishes the interior design of the salon above is reflected in the spa area, but deepened and enhanced. Swathes of white fabric roll across the ceiling and soften the distressed metallic of the dark purple walls, while film set spotlights add soft golden lighting and an extra touch of glamour.

Offering me a glass of water and a seat on an invitingly squishy velvet sofa, Charlotte then explained a little about the philosophy behind Ayurveda, and massage in particular. Designed to treat the whole person as opposed to only their symptoms, Ayurveda distinguishes three distinct constitutions, or doshas, that are found within every individual. To determine the current state of my own, Charlotte asked me to fill in a simple questionnaire that would help her identify any imbalances and tailor my massage accordingly. She subsequently summarised my exact physical, mental and emotional state with such uncanny accuracy that I knew I was in very capable hands. And I wasn’t wrong.

After leading me through to the sumptuous treatment room, she ensured I

was comfortably snuggled under a cosy faux fur blanket on the huge, heated massage bed (how could anyone not be?) before beginning the massage by pouring a soothing line of warm sesame oil down my back, which she’d chosen specifically for me due to its warming and nourishing properties. She then started working on my back, patiently unravelling the rope of knots that had held my shoulders together for the past month one by one, and I experienced a delicious little thrill as I felt each crackle and dissolve under her nimble fingers.

As Charlotte addressed each area of my body, I was struck by the variations in tempo and pressure of her strokes. As some points, her touch was firm and invigorating while at others incredibly gentle – a synthesis that fine-tuned both my body and soul in a way I’d never experienced through massage before.

This was such a powerful combination that, I have to admit, at one point I quite lost myself in the treatment. I totally forgot that I was in a room having a massage, and was instead transported to a whole new realm of sublime relaxation. It was utterly unexpected and absolutely marvellous.

How Charlotte brought me round again I’ll never know, but as the treatment drew to a close I felt gradually more alert and energised, as she’d assured me I would. And even though the massage had ended, the thoughtful and unhurried approach so characteristic of Atelier did not. Charlotte gave me five minutes to slowly come round and wrap myself in the robe provided (something I can only describe as akin to being cuddled by a cloud), before returning with a cup of herbal tea that she’d selected specifically to suit my needs.

When I finally emerged from this blissful haven, two hours after I’d arrived, Ella asked me how I was and without even thinking I replied, “I’ve never felt better.” It was the honest truth.

Readers, look no further – I’ve found Nirvana. n

❝

I FELT A DELICIOUS LITTLE THRILL EACH TIME I FELT A KNOT IN MY BACK CRACKLE AND DISSOLVE UNDER HER NIMBLE FINGERS

❞

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Sorry chaps, the Ayurvedic treatments are only available to ladies in accordance with Indian tradition, but there are a number of other massage options to indulge in so don’t feel despondent. Prices for massages start at £25 for a foot massage. The full REN retail range (and Christmas box sets) are also in stock.

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 93

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

What is Naturopathic Acupuncture?

The Naturopathic Acupuncture Course which has been taught by CNM (College of Naturopathic Medicine) for more than a decade, is now available at CNM Bristol.

What makes it special?

R

ight from the very time of its origins, around 2500 years ago in China, Acupuncture has always been part of a holistic package of healthy living. Rather than just focussing on the symptoms of disease, the Acupuncturist would always try to find out the cause.

In the West, Acupuncture is sometimes practiced outside this context, as a stand – alone technique, performed without any supporting advice on lifestyle and other supporting therapies.

This is why CNM developed “Naturopathic Acupuncture”, which we have been teaching at our London college for over 10 years and which is now offered at our Bristol college. Our students are taught to consider the causes of disease, and to educate patients in developing more healthy, sustainable lifestyles.

The ancient Chinese who developed Acupuncture placed great emphasis on the body’s own healing power. Rather than forcing out illness using strong drugs, Chinese doctors tried to stimulate the body’s own innate healing power. This approach is always followed by naturopaths too.

All CNM Acupuncture students are educated about the importance of Nutrition. Acupuncture works by treating the “qi”, or “vital force”, but if the diet is poor, the Acupuncturist has much less qi to work with. We observe that patients who follow our dietary advice tend to get well really quickly, whereas those who ignore it get better more slowly. In fact, those who do not change their diets often hit a kind of ceiling on their wellness: they cannot get beyond a certain point without dietary changes. A good diet is one of the fundamental aspects of the Naturopathic approach.

Acupuncture was developed in a very different world to ours. Our pattern of disease is therefore often quite different to that seen in ancient China. At the time Acupuncture was developed, much disease was often caused by a simple lack of basic food, and by chronic overwork. In our society, by contrast, disease is often caused by an excess of toxicity. We need, therefore, to pay particular attention to the need to detoxify the body. This is one reason why CNM has developed Naturopathic Acupuncture, in order to focus on reducing the level of toxins as part of the return to full health. In our experience, modern diseases benefit hugely from an approach which includes a method of detoxification.

So what are these toxins? They can include internally generated toxins, such as urea, or waste products of bacteria or yeasts. They can also include external toxins, such as drugs (illegal or prescription), alcohol, caffeine, food preservatives,

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Henry McGrath

pesticides, cosmetics, environmental pollutants and heavy metals.

The Naturopathic approach focuses on clearing toxins from the body, using the body’s own organs of detoxification. These organs include the lymphatic system, the skin, the kidneys, the lungs, the colon and the liver. By getting these organs to work more effectively, the body can release toxins and facilitate the return to health.

CNM’s Naturopathic approach to Acupuncture is specifically designed to combine ancient Chinese principles with the needs of today’s society, to produce maximum health benefits for all. We do not settle for getting rid of symptoms, we aim to promote a feeling of true wellness and vitality.

ABOUT THE WRITER. Bristol-based Henry McGrath is an Acupuncturist and the author of a number of books on Traditional Chinese Medicine. He is Acupuncture Course Director at CNM.

Attend a FREE CNM Open Evening in Bristol Thursday 13th November 6.30pm-8.30pm Find out about training with CNM Bristol for a career in Naturopathic Nutrition or Naturopathic Acupuncture.

Free Entry, but please reserve your place.

More details:

www.naturopathy-uk.com 01342 410 505 NOVEMBER 2014

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OUT | AND ABOUT

A COTSWOLD RAMBLE Andrew Swift guides us on a picturesque country walk, taking us through the village of Birdlip and along the celebrated Cotswold Way his walk takes in three types of Cotswold landscape – high plateau, beech wood and escarpment – and starts at Crickley Hill Country Park, where a visitor centre has displays on the archaeology and natural history of the area. The only real downside to this walk through one of the finest parts of the Cotswolds comes in the form of four busy road crossings, where care and patience are needed.

T

the hedgerow, but look across to the far hedgerow, where you will see two trees, and follow a faint track towards the one on the left. Just before you reach it, turn right through a metal gate and walk between two fences.

● Crickley Hill Country Park is signposted off the A417, four miles east of Junction 11A of the M5. After parking in the car park (SO929163), where you can enjoy the first of several superb views, go through a gate at the north end and, a few metres further on, bear right up a path. After 150 metres, you come to the access road, down which you drove earlier. For the visitor centre, turn right, otherwise carry straight on through a gate into the Scrubbs Woodland.

● Go through a five-bar gate at the end and turn right along a farm track (SO940145). After 350 metres, cross a stile by a metal gate on the left and carry on with the hedge on your left. Follow the path round the edge of the field, keeping the hedge on your left and carrying on past any gaps in it.

● Follow the path ahead indicated by waymarks, and, after heading downhill, cross a meadow, go through a gate and walk up to the road. Cross the road ahead and walk along the pavement to the left of the Air Balloon pub. Just after the entrance to the pub car park, cross left over another busy road, and follow a Gloucestershire Way signpost up a narrow path and through a kissing gate (KG) (SO934159). ● Follow the path as it winds through woods, go through a KG and head diagonally up the field to the left towards a small gate in the hedge. After going through the gate – and another just beyond it – head for the gate you can see on the far side of the next field, go through it and bear right alongside a hedge. At the end, go past a metal gate onto a lane and bear right (SO939155). ● The lane takes you past Birdlip Radio Station, established in the Second World War, and now home to security firms. After 350 metres turn left, go through a five-bar gate, passing Shab Hill Barn (now home to the Potted Game Company) on the right. Go through a metal gate and carry on across a field. After 150 metres, when the field opens out, don’t carry on alongside 96 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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● When you come to the road, cross with care, continue over a stile and carry on alongside a fence. After 200 metres, cross a stile on the left (SO928145), head to the left of the cricket club and follow an access road past a school. At the road, turn right and walk straight on, past two Give Way signs, through Birdlip village. ● Before reaching the Royal George Inn, cross to the left-hand pavement, carry on and turn left along the Stroud Road. After a few metres, cross and follow a footpath sign down a drive to the right of a Gothic-style cottage. ● After 350 metres, turn right and immediately right again to double back along the Cotswold Way (CW) (SO921142), whose waymarks you will be following back to Crickley Hill. After heading downhill, the path starts to rise. Climb steps on the right and continue up the CW. After crossing a road, the CW continues uphill, passing a disused quarry on the right. Carry on along the CW until you come to a signpost (SO922150). Bear left to follow a footpath to The Peak, and, after crossing a stile, you will come to one of the

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OUT | AND ABOUT

WATER UNDER THE BRIDGE: main image, south of Crickley Left inset, along the Cotswold Way Above, abandoned quarry Far right, the Butchers Arms at Sheepscombe

finest viewpoints on the Cotswolds, commanding a panorama stretching from the Malverns to May Hill and, on a clear day, the Brecon Beacons. ● Head back across the stile to the signpost and carry straight on, following the CW to Crickley Hill, which you can see over to your left. After 400 metres, follow a CW waymark through a gate on the left (SO926150). Carry on, with the fence on your left, along the edge of the escarpment, passing a car park up to the right, before heading up to the main road (SO933157). Carry on along the pavement to the Air Balloon pub, cross ahead and go through the gate into Crickley Hill Country Park. ● Bear left alongside the fence, and folow the CW through two gates, until you see the rampart of an iron age fort ahead. Carry on past it, before taking a turning up to the right to return to the car park. n

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FURTHER INFORMATION...

■

Distance: 6.5 miles

■

Time: 3 – 4 hours

■

Level of challenge: Generally straightforward, although with several stiles and four busy road crossings.

■

Map: OS Explorer 179

■

Refreshment stops: Seek out the Butchers Arms at Sheepscombe, four miles south-west of Birdlip, which serves food all day at weekends (www.butchers-arms.co.uk; 01452812113)

NOVEMBER 2014

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 99

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HOMES | ON SHOW

HOUSE ON THE HILL Marianne Swinkels finds a rare treasure in the busy Bristol housing market

B

y George! I’ve a question to ask. How would you like to live close to an awe-inspiring gorge spanned by Brunel’s masterpiece bridge, just a couple of metres stroll away from a gorgeous expanse of protected parkland and a mere nip-round-the-corner distance from the chic shops, trendy eateries and bars of a classy urban village?

And what would you think if, added to this, you’re in an area handsomely stocked with superb period properties, a plethora of mightily trip advised must-see tourist attractions, a high ranking university and top class schools right there on your doorstep? And what if it’s also all in easy peasy reach of the cultural and commercial centre of one of Britain’s most highly rated ‘quality of life’ cities?

Answers on a postcard please. Though if any of the above appeals and you are in the market for a dandy home in a coveted patch, don’t waste your time on such quaint niceties. Go for speed. Grab any piece of tech to hand and get in the queue to view.

Because seriously, this five storey Grade II listed townhouse is a relative rarity in Bristol’s hot property market. Its prime location says it all: Sion Hill, Clifton, 100 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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Bristol – an enviable address in one of the city’s most architecturally famous terraces.

Built almost smack in the middle of the century-long reign of a succession of King Georges, if you’re a fan of that era you’ll be in your element at number 23. For in marked contrast to George I, the Hanoverian who reluctantly took to the throne in 1720, and the largely unadmirable string of disinterested, mad, dissolute or disliked monarchs who followed on until 1830, the popular architecture of the time was all about proportion, order, stability and classicalinspired simplicity.

Grand, tall, flat-fronted Georgian houses with strong kerb appeal, strict symmetry of sash windows, doors, well proportioned rooms and strong kerbside appeal was then in vogue for folk on their uppers. And, it’s fair to say, that’s still the case today. There’s a healthy market for these good, solid properties which 18th century speculators, developers and wealthy merchants started building in earnest in the once rural hinterland of Clifton, little dreaming that in a couple of centuries these splendid homes would easily top the million plus pound mark.

It is right and proper to have a sense of history if you take the tour of this home,

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HOMES | ON SHOW

PROPERTY PROFILE Where: 23 Sion Hill, Clifton BS8 4AZ What: Grade II listed five storey Georgian townhouse neighbouring Suspension Bridge and Downs. Versatile accommodation currently arranged as four reception/living rooms, six bedrooms, three kitchens. Original features include balustrade, panelled sash windows, working fireplaces. Mature 100ft garden with ornamental pond.

Asking price: OIEO £1,100,000 Agent: Hydes of Bristol, 1 West Mall, Clifton BS8 4BH, www.hydes.co.uk Contact: Email: post@hydes.co.uk or tel: 0117 973 1516

not least because of the many fine original features it still obviously retains, including the long and elegant Georgian balustrade, the numerous panelled sash windows, doors and fireplaces throughout.

And, as four generations of the present owner’s family have lived here since 1914, the house has fundamentally escaped being internally sub-divided, partitioned, chopped about and all the other feature-ridding, character stripping goings-on seemingly inherent with splitting large homes into multiple abodes.

With 17 generous sized rooms spread across five levels, this town residence has allowed true versatility for a family living together over the years and the opportunities for re-configuration today are endless and enviable. A self-contained apartment in the attic perhaps? Or turn some of the ample ground and second floor reception rooms into bedrooms. Put some of the current six bedrooms into leisure, work or study use.

Transform the lovely basement quarters into a garden level pad. Go from the three small kitchens spread across the property to one ground floor

catering/entertaining HQ… Or just leave things as they are and thank the Georgians for doing their architectural thing so well. And enjoy picking up the baton from the current owners.

Whatever happens, as the vendors plan a seaside retirement and close the chapters on their own long and happy history here, whoever buys Sion Hill will inherit more than a snazzy postcode and the pleasure of living on one of Clifton’s oldest streets in splendid proximity to those Downs and that bridge.

Did I mention the far reaching, big sky views that sweep across the swathe of leafy gardens, out across the gorgeous Clifton skyline, across to Leigh Woods and the Ashton Court estate and on over to the distant Dundry Hills? Or that to the rear of this street fronted residence is a hiddenfrom-view secret? How would a well stocked 100ft long garden, with lawns, landscaped sanctuary, ornamental pond and flagstone sun terrace suit?

Thought so. Do send me a postcard when you move in. n

❝

DID I MENTION THE FAR REACHING, BIG SKY VIEWS OUT ACROSS THE GORGEOUS CLIFTON SKYLINE AND OVER TO ASHTON COURT?

❞

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 101

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GARDENING GARDENING

UP FRONT APPROACH Our Bristol garden design writer, Margaux Speirs explains how to achieve a pretty and practical front garden

I

s your front garden beautiful yet? This might strike you as a silly question if you think of a front garden as purely functional – perhaps for use as an off road place for the car, bike shed, or maybe even just bin storage. However a well-designed front garden can be both attractive and functional.

Here are two photos of Bristol front gardens which I especially like. The one above is in a shady spot with a large laburnum tree. The hoggin surface is made interesting and beautiful by a ring of granite setts – an expensive natural product but used in a limited way here with only about 4 square metres of stone at £60 per square metre. The evergreen shrub planting includes Fatsia japonica with its lovely big, shiny leaves, and Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ whose yellow leaves are a bright contrast against the Fatsia. The shrubs surround the car park space giving nearly as effective privacy to the house as an evergreen hedge.

The second garden, on the right, uses traditional, weathered, riven limestone laid in a random pattern –more restful to the eye than a geometric pattern. Although this is also a relatively expensive product at about £60 per square metre it looks very classy. The raised bed between the house and car parking is built from a stone which complements the material used in building the house. It has a tensioned steel growing trellis for roses. Looking out from the house this partially screens the cars from view without blocking too much light and looking from the street to the house it gives some privacy. The low planting is a limited palette – just 4 or 5 different plants – with a mix of evergreens (e.g. trailing rosemary) and perennials (e.g. erigeron).

I took these photos in October and both gardens were still looking green and lovely – imagine how much more they will enhance their respective homes in the summer months!

This is a good time to plan and plant, right up until the ground becomes frozen, and here are some suggestions as to how to give your own front garden a successful make over: • If there is space to do so, soften the building edge with foundation planting.

You need a border at least 40cm wide for the planting space to be viable (preferably 75cm or more). It will often be quite dry soil in the shadow of the house and possibly shady so pick plants that can cope with these conditions. Base the planting on evergreens, particularly along the front 102 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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edge as you don’t want to see bare soil. Hebe, hemerocallis, sarcococca, box, lavender and epimedium are all good choices.

• For trailing down a low front wall alyssum, erigeron karvinskianus, aubrieta or phlox subulata McDaniel’s Cushion look wonderful (the latter having the advantage of evergreen foliage).

• Put a trellis around the bin storage or oil tank area and grow plants up it to screen the view from the house. Ivy is an incredibly hardy climber and there is a big variety of foliage to choose from. I particularly like the hedera helix Glacier with its creamy white edges. For an instant screen you can buy the ivy already grown up a lightweight steel mesh and planted in biodegradable troughs that just slot into a trench you dig.

• Consider introducing a few pieces of topiary that will be like living sculptures in the garden – box cubes or pyramids work well for a modern house, and box balls for a more traditional house (remember though that box topiary needs cutting at least twice a year).

If your budget runs to a new driveway surface take your cue from the building materials of your own and neighbouring houses: natural stone looks great in almost any environment but you might choose sharply sawn edges for

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GARDENING

❝ A WELL DESIGNED FRONT GARDEN CAN BE BOTH ATTRACTIVE AND FUNCTIONAL

❞ a modern house and riven stone for a more traditional one. Gravel is relatively cheap but cannot be used on steeply sloping drives as it migrates. Also the little stones can get trailed into the house on people’s shoes and scratch interior floors. Concrete is cheap and the range of concrete products has improved over the years but its uniformity can make it look a bit soulless.

There is a relatively new driveway product where aggregate is bound into or bonded onto a resin base. The resultant surface is hard wearing, porous (therefore compliant with the legislation that aims to prevent drive way runoff being drained into public sewers), fairly resistant to weeds and relatively low-maintenance. I love these ‘resin bonded’ and ‘resin bound’ surfaces as they come in a huge range of colours so can suit any design scheme. The better systems are resistant to oil or petrol spillage, do not fade in UV sunlight and are capable of tolerating a wide range of temperatures. The price depends on the preparation work required, but expect to pay more than gravel or concrete pavers and a bit less than a natural stone drive. It does need to be laid by a specialist contractor, and make sure you get references as there are cowboys out there! n Margaux Speirs, a pre-registered member of the Society of Garden Designers, runs her business, Margaux Speirs Garden Design from her home in Bristol. Visit: www.margauxspeirsgardendesign.co.uk

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PLANT OF THE MONTH: Callycarpa bodinieri var. giraldii 'Profusion' (commonly called beauty berry) is a small deciduous shrub grown for its rows of lilac-violet, beadlike, tiny fruit which appear in September and October and last well beyond leaf fall. Its long, arching branches often touch the ground, giving it an elegant shape. It has small pink flowers in summer and usually good pinky-yellow autumn colour. It needs fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or dappled shade and is low maintenance. Inexpensive to buy.

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www.chippingsodburykitchens.co.uk

Over 20 years experience of designing & installing kitchens, Bathrooms and Bedrooms including all aspects of building & renovation work

BEAUTIFUL C S K B • 400 GLOUCESTER ROAD • HORFIELD • BRISTOL BS7 8TR TEL: 0117 924 6165

DESIGNS FOR LIFE!

E: sales@cs-kitchens.co.uk

Open: Monday to Friday 9am – 5.30pm. Saturday 10am – 5pm.

Custom Designed. Computer Imagery.

Total Project Management.

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BRISTOL PROPERTY | IN FOCUS

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uilt between 2013 and 2014, Windrush is a substantial family home which combines contemporary and traditional features along with superb energy efficiency systems. The house sits in a peaceful valley in the popular and vibrant community of Sandy. Windrush has been designed to an exacting specification with the intention of achieving G Level 5 of the ‘code for Sustainable Homes’.

Stone walls, clay roof tiles and oak cladding all sit naturally within the setting and solar gain has been maximised by the attention to natural light. Windows are all triple glazed and sealed log fires and renewable energy systems capitalise on the efficient design and minimise running costs. In brief the accommodation comprises: Reception hall, study, drawing room, sitting room, family room, kitchen, dining room, utility, cloakroom, gym, wine cellar and plant room. Upstairs the master bedroom has a dressing room, bathroom and balcony and there are 5 further bedroom suites and a laundry room. Outside there is a new timber framed triple car port and potential for stabling, landscaped gardens and grounds, a stone flagged sun terrace and a paddock. In all the property sits in approximately 4.8 acres and must be viewed to be appreciated.

Knight Frank, Regent House, 27A Regent Street, Clifton, Bristol. Tel: 0117 317 1999

WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK

WINDRUSH ABBOTS LEIGH • Newly completed with exacting design to achieve sustainable living • Master suite plus 5 further bedroom suites • Lower ground floor gym and wine cellar • Large landscaped gardens and grounds with potential for stabling • Popular and desirable family location

Guide Price £3,250,000 NOVEMBER 2014

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www.maggsandallen.co.uk

0117 973 4940

Commercial Agency

22 Richmond Hill, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1BA

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Fleet Street, Swindon Guide Price £725,000+

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Canford Lane, Westbury on Trym

Fairfax Street, Broadmead

Rare opportunity to lease this well presented shop approx. 530sqft in the heart of Westbury Village. Benefiting from A1 and A2 planning consent with the addition of a rear courtyard and side access. Other notable businesses nearby include Cooperative, Groupo Lounge, Parsons Bakery and Lloyds Pharmacy.

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19 Modern self-contained one bedroom flats situated in this block of 21. Situated in Swindon Town Centre and let producing approx. £114,600p.a (£89,204p.a net). The property is an ideal buy to let investment or break-up opportunity.

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£30,000PA

New Instruction. Rare opportunity to lease this large shop unit (approx. 2,800sqft) within very close proximity to Broadmead, The Galleries Shopping Mall and the City Centre. The property benefits from retail consent but would suit other uses subject to obtaining the necessary consents. Offered for let on a new full repairing and insuring lease with terms to be negotiated.

Pembroke Road, Clifton

£20,000PA

Attractive ground floor former doctors surgery of approximately 1,000sqft (gross) benefiting from private entrance to the front and rear with additional front and rear courtyards. The property is situated in a prime location on Pembroke Road in Clifton, within easy walking distance of Whiteladies Road and Clifton Village.

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Queen Square, City Centre

£33,000PA

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£115,000

Attractive freehold former dentist surgery (Approx. 544Sqft Gross) situated just off Blackboy Hill, Clifton. Benefits from own entrance and courtyard. Potential for alternative D1 uses such as Beauty Salon, Physiotherapy, Medical/Heath services etc or possibly residential (subject to consents).

Sales & Lettings FREEHOLD INVESTMENTS URGENTLY REQUIRED

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Whiteladies Road, Clifton

Commercial

Arguably one of Bristol’s most sought after addresses. These prominent offices overlook Queen Square and the City centre and have been recently refurbished to a high specification. Although open plan, the property has been partitioned to create separate private offices/ classrooms which could be removed if necessary. Approximately 2,636sqft gross square foot.

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We are experiencing high demand for:

North Street, Bedminster

£25,000PA

Spacious retail unit/showroom approx. 2,500sqft (gross internal) with additional front forecourt providing off street parking. The accommodation is mostly open plan with retail frontage situated in a popular location on North Street, Bedminster, previously occupied

by Zero G Cycles.

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Whiteladies Road, Clifton

Vacant/Tenanted Retail Premises

Blocks of Apartments

Offices in BS8, BS6 & BS9

£695,000

High Street, Shirehampton

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Fairfax St, Broadmead

£20,000PA

Secure warehouse/garage (approximately 2,500sqft) with additional front office (280sqft) and further yard (1,100sqft approx.) providing parking and access. The unit is situated in a popular location below the Fairfax Street NCP within close proximity to the Galleries, Broadmead and the City Centre. Previously occupied by a car rental company, the unit would suit a similar occupier or alternative use subject to consents.

Commercial/ Investment

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£450,000

£550,000

Attractive Grade II listed 5 storey building situated in a prime City Centre location arranged as ground floor bar with basement and 3 additional storeys above. There is potential for conversion of the upper floors to office space or residential subject to consents.

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Very well presented and deceptively spacious freehold investment arranged as a large tenanted ground floor retail unit with store room and rear access, with a 2 bedroom first floor flat and further self contained maisonette occupying the entire second and third floors.

The property is fully let producing £36,840pa. Early enquiries are recommended.

Lettings & Auctioneers Management

Maggs & Allen Commercial November.indd 1

St Stephens St, City Centre

Commercial Team: 0117 973 4940 SIM

A rare opportunity to acquire this attractive period four storey end of terrace property arranged as (approx 2,900 sqft net internal floor area) office space benefiting from roof terrace, many original features, independent accessible basement level and off street parking for 6 vehicles.

Estate Agents

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Bedminster Down Rd

Guide Price £175,000+

Commercial investment comprising an industrial estate of 4 units plus yard. Producing approx. £38,000pa. The property is to be sold on the residue of a 75 year lease with approximately 26 years remaining,

Chartered Land/New Homes Surveyors

Energy Assessors

17/10/2014 10:23

Bristol & Clifton’s premier Commercial Property Agents Keep up-to-date with our latest news and market comments at our website: www.burstoncook.co.uk 157 WHITELADIES ROAD

(0117) 934 9977

CLIFTON VILLAGE

Large retail unit of 1,750 sq ft + lower floor of 760 sq ft

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENT A SHOP IN CLIFTON VILLAGE…

*Suit other uses*

PLEASE CONTACT US TO SEE WHAT IS AVAILABLE…

EXCELLENT LOCATION

QUEEN SQUARE BS1

FOR SALE

High quality air conditioned open plan office suite of 1,568 sq ft -

ROYAL COLLONADE GREAT GEORGE STREET A spectacular listed building with parking and walled garden.

New lease – Only £13 per sq

C 3,200 sq ft NET ONLY £695,000

INVESTMENT CLIFTON

INVESTMENT FOR SALE CENTRAL BRISTOL

Mixed retail and residential investment opportunity fully let –

A new conversion of 8 high quality flats and a quality restaurant/bar

Rent £88,080 pa –

Rent £77,240 pa + potential to improve

Price on application

Price £900,000 (8.6%) BROOKLAND HALL, BS2

FOR SALE Gospel Hall with D1 consent on 0.26 acre site –

D1 / office building of 3,679 sq ft with 30 car spaces…

Potential for other uses –

New lease –

Freehold – Offers invited

Only £8.50 per sq ft

QUEENS ROAD, CLIFTON

CHANDOS ROAD – BS6 Large shop (formerly convenience store) in established neighbourhood shopping area.

Corner shop in busy main road in Clifton – New lease –

New lease (might sell).

Only £11,250 pax

(0117) 934 9977

Julian Cook FRICS

Burston Cook November.indd 1

Jayne Rixon MRICS

Charlie Kershaw MRICS

Finola Ingham

• • • • •

Sales / Lettings Acquisitions Valuations Landlord & tenant Auction Sales

• • • • •

Rent reviews Property Management Investment Sales / Purchase Development & Planning Dilapidations Advice

MRICS

20/10/2014 14:25

FOR SALE – ‘THE BARNS’

ONLY £785,000…

This stunning barn conversion in a beautiful location.

Situated in its own landscaped site, the property comprises two high quality barn conversions fitted and finished to a very high standard.

‘The Barns’ is situated in a tranquil environment approximately 1 miles from Falfield, South Gloucestershire and approximately 1.5 miles from the popular market town of Thornbury.

Approached via a gravelled driveway, each building currently benefits from office use and the larger property has recently received planning consent for use as a residential dwelling. With the buildings being presented so well, the conversion should be straightforward and thus allows a successful purchaser a fantastic opportunity to design and install their own kitchen and bathrooms to meet their own particular requirements. This would leave the smaller detached barn, which is also converted to a high standard, for other uses subject to planning.

Jayne Rixon, Director at Burston Cook comments “this really is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a spectacular barn complex, which is very sensibly priced seeking offers in the region of £785,000. We generally anticipate receiving strong interest”.

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Richard Harding Chartered Surveyors • Estate Agents • Auctioneers • Valuers

A substantial & inviting 6 bedroom Edwardian family home with an impressive overall feeling of space including a fabulous kitchen extension leading onto a 60ft x 24ft rear garden. Further benefitting from the rare advantage of both off street parking and a double garage. Fabulous location within a short level walk of Durdham Downs, Blackboy Hill and Whiteladies Road. A beautiful period home in a great location. EPC: D

REDLAND guide range £945,000 - £995,000

0117 946 6690 www.richardharding.co.uk 124 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2RP

An impressive & much loved 4 double bedroom, 4 reception room detached 1920’s period family house set within a generous plot (just under one third of an acre) with delightful gardens & ample driveway parking & garage accommodation. Offers spacious & well-proportioned rooms throughout full of light & with a most welcoming atmosphere. EPC: F

WESTBURY-ON-TRYM guide £750,000

An exceptionally well-presented 4 double bedroom (2 en suite) stone fronted semi-detached family house located on a highly sought after road with a private rear garden, off street parking & plenty of character in a highly prized road near Red Maid's School. A fabulous period home with a generous free-flowing layout, large bedrooms & much more. EPC: F

HENLEAZE guide range £715,000 - £745,000

A truly unique & exciting opportunity to re-model this fabulous period Victorian school building (currently arranged as offices) & create your perfect home. Planning consent granted for change of use from offices to a generous 4 bedroom single dwelling with south west facing gardens & plenty of parking. Excellent location: hidden away on a friendly road with a good community spirit. EPC: E

WESTBURY-ON-TRYM guide range £675,000 - £725,000

An inviting 4 bedroom (1 en suite) detached family home in desirable cul-de-sac section of this highly regarded development, with off street parking & double garage.

Well-arranged accommodation, sociable kitchen/dining/ living space accessing 39ft x 36ft level garden. EPC: D

An attractive 2/3 bedroom, 2 reception room Victorian period home in a fabulous location, full of period features including sash windows, stripped floorboards & fireplaces & further benefiting from lovely front & rear gardens. Fabulous location in the heart of Redland with the convenience of the local shops and amenities of Chandos Road & Lower Redland Road within just a couple of hundred metres. EPC: D

EXCITING RENOVATION POTENTIAL - a substantial and individual 4 double bedroom, 4 reception room period property occupying an elevated corner plot on a popular road in St Andrews, further benefiting from lawned south westerly facing rear & side gardens, off street parking & a garage.

Retaining plenty of character including several fireplaces, sash windows & high ceilings. EPC: D

The subject of much improvement, this versatile 3/4 bedroom detached property enjoys generous grounds with a 115ft x 40ft rear garden, plenty of off street parking & double car port. On the outskirts of Abbots Leigh & within 2.5 miles of Clifton Village. EPC: D

REDLAND guide £550,000

ST ANDREWS guide range £525,000 - £575,000

STOKE BISHOP guide £659,950

Professional, Reliable, Successful

ABBOTS LEIGH guide £469,950

Clifton t: 0117 923 8238 (sales) t: 0117 946 6588 (lettings) clifton@cjhole.co.uk

www.cjhole.com How has the Bristol housing market fared this Autumn as we head into winter? At time of writing I would say things have been really pretty steady. There’s no doubt that the Scottish referendum, the threat of an increase in interest rates and a looming General Election have had a part to play in the heat coming out of the early 2014 market. Both Halifax and Nationwide experts report a drop in house price growth already and business analysts say that may be reflected further in 2015 (see articles in Telegraph, Independent and Guardian - Oct, 2014) That said, here in Bristol things on the ground remain steady. We have a vibrant and mobile housing and rental

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sector with industries like Aerospace, the Universities and media operations like the BBC all fuelling supply and demand whatever the economic climate. If you need or want to sell or rent in Bristol at the moment, you can do so knowing that this is neither an inflated market, nor a dramatically falling one. It is a good time to make sensible decisions based on the practicalities and shape of your personal circumstances rather than what might be going on in the local housing market. In my view that is always a good place to be.

Howard Davis M.N.A.E.A Managing Director - CJ Hole Clifton

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Redland

Clifton

Clifton

A superior Redland property offering a generous interior over four floors. Plenty of original character remains throughout. There are 6 bedrooms; 3 reception rooms; kitchen/breakfast room; bathroom; wc and 2 en-suite shower rooms. The location is second to none with the popular Redland Green School just along the road, The Downs, Whiteladies Road and Gloucester Road all only a short distance away.

EPC rating E.

A hidden gem! This four storey architect designed home is hidden away behind Whiteladies Road. On the ground floor; spacious kitchen/breakfast room; utility area and cupboard; cloakroom; first floor sitting room; on the second floor two bedrooms and bathroom; the top floor has the Master bedroom with en-suite shower room and large roof balcony with stunning Clifton views.

EPC rating B.

An exceptional three bedroom Penthouse apartment offering a generous and stylish interior. Breath-taking views over the city are enjoyed from the extensive private terrace and living rooms from the front. This particular apartment occupies the top floor which adds to its privacy. The lift gives direct access to the lower ground level where there are two secure parking spaces using a stacker system.

EPC rating D.

£825,000

£550,000

£595,000

Sneyd Park

Wraxall

Abbots Leigh

This spacious maisonette is set in stunning grounds with communal swimming pool plus saunas. The property consists; lounge/ diner; breakfast room; kitchen; three double bedrooms; en-suite to master bedroom; main bathroom; separate wc. There is a garage plus an allocated parking space. Offered for sale with no onward chain this lovely apartment has a great deal to offer.

EPC rating E.

A large 1920’s detached house set in a good sized plot on the edge of the National Trusts Tyntesfield Estate. The house is well presented throughout with impressive views. The ground floor comprises; 35ft reception with windows on three sides; kitchen/breakfast room; utility room; wc; dining room and second reception. The first floor has five double bedrooms; bathroom and two en-suite bathrooms. EPC rating E.

A truly stunning contemporary detached property which is ready to move straight in to. This property is set in a rural location in approx 1/3 of an acre plot. Ground floor: open plan living area; fitted kitchen; three bedrooms; bathroom plus shower room. On the first floor two further bedrooms plus Jack & Jill bathroom. There is a garage; parking for several cars; large rear garden.

EPC rating E.

£300,000

CJ Hole Clifton Nov.indd 1

£735,000

£595,000

16/10/2014 15:48

Westbury-on-Trym

Westbury-on-Trym

Coombe Dingle

A substantial and well cared for 1930’s five bedroom family home arranged over three levels and positioned within close proximity of Elmlea Infant and Junior School. and the Bristol Free School. The ground floor offers three individual reception rooms, kitchen/diner and access to a 30m westerly facing garden which fans out to rear. EPC E.

Superbly presented and extended semidetached family home with three family-sized bedrooms, two receptions; living room with bay and fireplace and dining room with views and access to garden and contemporary bathroom. Positioned within close proximity to Elmlea Infant and Junior School. EPC E.

An extensive and impressive halls-adjoining family home offering flexible accommodation.

The property briefly comprises kitchen/ breakfast room, three receptions and four bedrooms, one with en-suite and a delightful family garden boasting views to the east and south. Within one mile of one of the Sunday Times top ten rated primary schools in the country. EPC D.

Price Guide £600,000

£550,000

£450,000

Westbury Park

Henleaze

Henleaze

A fantastic opportunity to purchase this five bedroom Edwardian family home within walking distance of Durdham Down. The ground floor offers two receptions; living room with bay window and period style fireplace and dining room with level access to a westerly facing garden. There is also a kitchen/diner and downstairs WC/utility area. Awaiting EPC.

A three storey Edwardian family home in prestigious position and conveniently located with four double bedrooms, bathroom and shower room. The ground floor offers two receptions, additional ground floor office and kitchen/diner providing access to a south westerly lawned garden with private driveway. EPC F.

A renovated three bedroom dormer bungalow positioned in St Margarets Drive.

The property offers two receptions with French doors onto a private garden, modern kitchen, spacious modern bathroom, en-suite to master bedroom and garage and car port.

Positioned within close proximity to Henleaze Infant and Junior School. EPC D.

£635,000

Price Guide £625,000

Price Guide £465,000

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Cotham

£235,000 Redland

£299,995 St Andrews

£315,000

Two double bedroom ground floor flat ideally located for Gloucester Road, BRI, City centre and the University. Sizable open plan lounge/kitchen/diner with dual aspect and French doors opening to the communal garden. Two double bedrooms with en-suite shower room to the master and built in wardrobe.

Further benefits include secure allocated off street parking.

A unique and characterful converted period coach house situated in a quiet back road in Redland with light and airy 26’ living room, two double bedrooms with fitted storage and contemporary bathroom with white suite. The living accommodation comprises a good sized open plan room with 12 ‘Velux’ roof lights, stained glass windows, wooden floors and freestanding kitchen with stainless steel range.

Two double bedroom garden flat on a sought after road in St Andrews. Lounge with a feature fireplace and sash window, separate kitchen with space for a dining table, and French doors leading to the garden, and main bathroom with an ensuite shower room to the master. Benefits private entrance off road parking and is offered to the market with no onward chain.

Energy rating - TBC

Energy rating - D

Energy rating - C

t. 0117 946 6007

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Clifton

£350,000 Redland

£399,995 Clifton

£410,000

Two double bedroom garden flat with allocated off street parking space to rear. Benefits enclosed private garden, communal front garden, and gas central heating. Interior presents entrance hall, spacious lounge/diner, separate kitchen, two double, modern bathroom, and separate utility room. No onward chain.

Stunning hall floor apartment set in this stunning tree lined cul-de-sac close to the Durdham Downs with the benefit of an allocated off street parking space. Comprises a 18’ x 17’ living room to the rear, separate fitted kitchen with windows to two sides, bathroom and two double bedrooms, the master bedroom measuring 22’8 long.

A newly built semi-detached two bedroom mews house situated within an exclusive walled development. 26’ x 17’ living space, bespoke glacier white kitchen and sliding doors to terrace. Master bedroom with en-suite shower room situated on the first floor. To the ground floor is the entrance hall, second bedroom and bathroom. Benefits one space in a shared double garage and a 10 year building warranty.

Energy rating - D

Energy rating - D

Energy rating - TBC

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£550,000 Westbury Park

£570,000 Clifton

£850,000

An impressive four storey, six bedroom, 3 bathroom, Victorian house currently used as a student HMO with tenants in place until Summer 2015. Generating an income of £2,500pcm (£30,000 per annum), giving a 5.4% return at the current asking price. Further benefits include; great views, quiet cul-de-sac location, residence parking scheme, current HMO licence, and no onward chain.

Four double bedroom, three reception, mid-terrace Victorian house presented over three floors. Benefits include single garage accessible through the south westerly aspect landscaped rear garden and back lane. This attractive property retains many period features and benefits from being located within the Redland Green School and Westbury Park School catchment areas.

Five storey Georgian home set in this hidden location overlooking communal gardens to the front and far reaching views to the South from the rear. Benefits from a car port and many period features including period fireplaces, working shutters and a first floor balcony. There is flexible accommodation that can be used in a variety of ways. The top two floors consist of four double bedrooms and the lower ground floor could either be two more bedrooms or further reception room.

Energy rating - E

Energy rating - TBC

Energy rating - TBC

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£750,000 Stoke Bishop

Nestled in a private development of two substantial houses accessed by a private lane from Falcondale Road and the corner of Stoke Lane. Built in the late 1970’s and offering exceptional square footage and flexible accommodation throughout. The extensive grounds add the potential to extend further (with the necessary planning permissions and consents). With a central hallway running through and 5 bedrooms. t. 0117 962 1973 Energy rating - TBC

£475,000 Westbury on Trym

Nestled in a prime Stoke bishop cul-de-sac is this beautifully renovated and extended family home. Lovingly restored by its current owners incorporating original features; such as original style panelling to the hallway. A beautifully maintained and well planned private garden lays to the rear, and partial views over the River Avon stretch to the front. The kitchen breakfast room is a perfect places to sit and look out over the garden.

Energy rating - D t. 0117 962 1973

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Energy rating - E

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Henbury

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£365,000 Henleaze

This beautifully presented bay fronted semi-detached family home occupies a position equidistant from Westbury on Trym village, Gloucester Road and Henleaze high street. Lovely views to the front add to the sense of light and space throughout.

Convenient public transport links and local amenities are in close proximity. With three bedrooms two reception rooms, one of which is extended; along with the kitchen; to the rear.

Energy rating - F t. 0117 962 1973

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£459,950

Situated in a prime Westbury on Trym cul-de-sac, this extended Three/Four bedroom family home is ideally placed in close proximity to both highly rated ‘Westbury on Trym C of E’ and ‘The Bristol Free’ Schools. A cleverly mapped out extension adds exceptional square footage and flexibility to the already spacious accommodation. The elevated position, and the double story bay front, provide stunning views across Bristol. t. 0117 962 1973 Energy rating - D

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£409,950 Henleaze

Lovingly restored by its current owners incorporating original features and cleverly contrasting and complimenting the historic with the modern, such as a contemporary kitchen and oak flooring. A beautifully maintained and well planned private garden lays to the rear. The kitchen dining room is open plan and is a perfect place to sit and look out over the garden.

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Westbury on Trym

www.oceanhome.co.uk

£189,950 Henbury

£195,000

Located moments from the shops and cafés of Henleaze high street, Ocean are delighted to bring to the market this purpose built two bedroom, first floor retirement property in good decorative order throughout, the property comprises two good size bedrooms, a bright south west facing living room leading through a glass door into a well-appointed kitchen with plenty of surface space and cupboards.

Energy rating - C t. 0117 962 1973

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£179,950 Henleaze

£162,000

Built in 2010 by Barratt Homes this three bedroom semidetached family home is nestled in a tranquil backwater of Henbury. Well presented throughout with three bedrooms, garage, open plan kitchen dining room and separate living room. Ideal purchase for young professionals and families alike. Close to local amenities, motorway and public transport links. The property has a South Westerly garden mainly laid to lawn with patio and a gate to rear leading to the garage.

Presented in a ‘Shabby Chic’ style this three bedroom home is well proportioned and ideal for young professionals or families alike. Located conveniently for local shops and public transport and motorway networks. An open plan kitchen dining room is the main focal point and at the heart of the home, providing a perfect entertaining space. The double doors to the garden; that is just shy of being 60 foot in length; can also be accessed by a passage way to the side of the house.

Conveniently located near the downs and walking distance to both both Henleaze high street and Westbury on Trym village this light and spacious apartment is ideal for young professionals and buy to let investors alike. Perfect for commuters looking for a Bristol base. Originally a grand period house that has since been converted into apartment’s, this flat occupies the top floor allowing enviable views from the living room.

Energy rating - B

Energy rating - D

Energy rating -D

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

The Grange, Siston Court £695,000

A charming Grade II Listed home nestled within the Tudor Manor of Siston Court.

• 4 Double Bedrooms • Beautiful Grade II Listed Gothic Home • Large Kitchen/Diner • 3 Reception Rooms • Conservatory • Barn (with potential for development – subject to planning).

Netherwood, Almondsbury £730,000

An outstanding 1930s detached property in an elevated position refurbished and extended by the current owners with garage, parking and landscaped gardens.

• Entrance hall • sitting room • garden room • kitchen/dining room • utility room • 4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • extensive landscaped gardens including patio and raised deck • abundance of parking • incorporating triple carport • garaging and wonderful open country views. EPC Rating: E

Hamptons Bristol

Sales. 0117 322 6362 | bristol@hamptons-int.com

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Tyndalls Court, Clifton £425,000

Wonderfully bright and spacious apartment offering flexible living.

• Entrance hall • 3 double bedrooms • reception room • kitchen • family bathroom • separate WC • balconies front and back • communal gardens • 2 storage cupboards • utility cupboard. EPC Rating: D

Durdham Park, Redland £950,000

Substantial Edwardian house with generous rear garden, garaging and parking.

• Entrance hall • drawing room • kitchen/breakfast room • dining room • 6 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • 67 ft rear garden with summer house • large double garage and parking space both behind security gates • close to the Durdham Downs & Whiteladies Road. EPC Rating: D

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STONE | SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE

GUIDE PRICE ÂŁ700,000

A stunning attached country house with gardens, stables and paddock; well-placed for access to Bristol and the M5. Two beautiful reception rooms, conservatory, family kitchen. Utility room. Five bedrooms, three bath / shower rooms (one en-suite). Cloakroom. In all circa 3440 sq. ft. Charming gardens, stables and fenced paddock. Double garage & generous parking with gated drive. Further land available by sep. neg. EPC rating: E.

Fine & Country Bristol 147 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2QT Tel: 0117 946 1946 Email: bristol@fineandcountry.com bristol.fineandcountry.co.uk

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WESTBURY-ON-TRYM | BRISTOL

POA

An exquisite detached family house, situated in the middle of generous fully enclosed gardens; complete with gated driveway, twin covered carport and an outdoor heated swimming pool. Family kitchen, drawing room, sitting room, conservatory. Utility room. Master bedroom suite, guest bedroom suite.

Four further bedrooms. Family bathroom & separate shower room. Superb fully enclosed gardens, outdoor pool and excellent parking. EPC Pending.

fineandcountry.com

Clifton - Guide Price £425,000

A lovely Victorian converted two bedroom Mews house situated in a peaceful tucked away position in central Clifton. Sympathetically and stylishly refurbished approximately six years ago by the current owners using high quality fixtures and fittings. EPC- D

Redland - £269,960

A great opportunity indeed to purchase this lovely top floor 2 Bedroom flat which is located in this sought after road in Redland. 42d is located on the top floor of this handsome building and offers well laid out and proportioned accommodation which is well presented. EPC - D

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Redland - £650,000

A lovely townhouse situated in a tucked away location in central Redland. Accommodation arranged over four floors with four bedrooms, bathroom and en suite, two receptions and lovely kitchen and utility area on the lower floor. Rear garden and off street parking. EPC - TBC

Clifton - £355,000

A wonderful opportunity to buy a superb garden flat in this hugely popular road, just off Whiteladies Rd. A particularly roomy flat which offers two large bedrooms with real oak flooring, one with en-suite. With a completely separate, third room for additional storage. EPC - D

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Hotwells - £375,000

An absolutely charming 3 bed Victorian terrace house located in the popular and very convenient Hotwells area of the city, moments from the city centre and harbour. There are many period features including stripped pine doors and floorboards, original fireplaces and stained glass. EPC - D

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Clifton Wood - £485,000

A very stylish and deceptive town house offering bright accommodation arranged over 3 floors and located in popular Clifton Wood. The top floor is flooded with light and has 2 really good size double bedrooms which span the width of the house. EPC - D

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Stoke Bishop - Guide Price £700,000

Stunning detached family house within walking distance of Elmlea Schools & the local shops on Stoke Lane & Druid Hill. Lovely open plan kitchen/dining/family area opening onto a level (SW) facing garden. Five bedrooms (2 en suites) & family bathroom. Garage & parking. EPC rating D

Westbury-on-Trym - £585,000 Belle Vue Lodge is a combination of 2 Victorian properties, the original cottage formerly a ‘oneup, one-down’ gardener’s lodge on the edge of the Belle Vue Estate. Outside is an attractive courtyard garden which is ideal for entertaining friends & family. EPC rating F.

Westbury-on-Trym - £585,000 An absolutely wonderful 4-bedroom family house, over 1500 sq/ft and ideally suited to growing families or downsizers. Offering a level walk to Stoke Lane shops and the highly reputed Elmlea School within close proximity. Fastidiously refurbished by its current owners. EPC rating D.

Westbury-on-Trym - Guide Price £635,000

A 1920’s chalet style detached home that has been completely refurbished throughout in recent years. Located in this highly popular district, well set back from the road & is within a very large plot where the rear garden alone is around 150’ in length. EPC rating D.

Stoke Bishop - £475,000

Sneyd Park - £395,000

A refurbished 1930’s detached bungalow completed to a high standard and offering versatile and spacious accommodation. The bungalow sits within its own plot set well back from the road with ample off street parking and manageable gardens. No onward chain. EPC rating C.

We are delighted to offer this late 19th century detached cottage in the Avenue, a truly beautiful leafy road & literally only 2 minutes’ walk from Durham Downs. The property is generally in excellent condition, blending old period charm with modern contemporary styling. EPC rating E.

Leese & Nagle November.indd 2

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Stoke Bishop - Guide Price £700,000

Stunning detached family house within walking distance of Elmlea Schools & the local shops on Stoke Lane & Druid Hill. Lovely open plan kitchen/dining/family area opening onto a level (SW) facing garden. Five bedrooms (2 en suites) & family bathroom. Garage & parking. EPC rating D

Westbury-on-Trym - £585,000 Belle Vue Lodge is a combination of 2 Victorian properties, the original cottage formerly a ‘oneup, one-down’ gardener’s lodge on the edge of the Belle Vue Estate. Outside is an attractive courtyard garden which is ideal for entertaining friends & family. EPC rating F.

Westbury-on-Trym - £585,000 An absolutely wonderful 4-bedroom family house, over 1500 sq/ft and ideally suited to growing families or downsizers. Offering a level walk to Stoke Lane shops and the highly reputed Elmlea School within close proximity. Fastidiously refurbished by its current owners. EPC rating D.

Westbury-on-Trym - Guide Price £635,000

A 1920’s chalet style detached home that has been completely refurbished throughout in recent years. Located in this highly popular district, well set back from the road & is within a very large plot where the rear garden alone is around 150’ in length. EPC rating D.

Stoke Bishop - £475,000

Sneyd Park - £395,000

A refurbished 1930’s detached bungalow completed to a high standard and offering versatile and spacious accommodation. The bungalow sits within its own plot set well back from the road with ample off street parking and manageable gardens. No onward chain. EPC rating C.

We are delighted to offer this late 19th century detached cottage in the Avenue, a truly beautiful leafy road & literally only 2 minutes’ walk from Durham Downs. The property is generally in excellent condition, blending old period charm with modern contemporary styling. EPC rating E.

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