Bath Life – Issue 526

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2025 PREVIEW SPECIAL

SHOW OF STRENGTH

The powerful work of Toufic Beyhum comes to Bath’s Roseberry Studios

+ Annie Sloan on 35 years of being the Queen of Paint Easter holiday activities, with extra bounce!

Sartorial advice for red carpet moments

The Mint Room’s enticing new tasting menu

An insider’s guide to Bradford on Avon

The life and times of Mary Shelley in Bath

My children are past the age where I can organise their Easter activities for them. One is in Brighton claiming to be studying (not sure if watching all 1,122 episode of the Japanese TV show One Piece, counts towards their finals, as impressi e as that is) and the other is travelling SE Asia and seems to have forgotten how to use his phone, the same one that was surgically grafted onto his hand.

But one of the things I am very grateful for, having had the privilege of raising a family in Bath, is just how many fun, fabulous and even free activities there are here. Thanks to the Resident’s Card – the Roman Baths, Victoria Art Gallery, and even the Fashion Museum of old, were always on the itinerary. There were walks down the Linear Way, walks up Alexandra Park, and walks around Westonbirt Arboretum. School holidays planned themselves – a homemade meal deal, the promise of sweets at some point, and the offer of taking along a pal or two – meant the reluctance, the rows and the sibling bickering was kept to a manageable, stay-sane, level.

So it was with a twinge of sadness and nostalgia I read the brilliant Easter activities guide over on page 40. For about a minute. Then there was the brightening realisation that I can now do a lot of these activities any old time I want. True I won’t be sharp elbowing small children out of my way so can find all the prizes at the American Museum’s Easter Egg trail, but I can wander their gardens and collections in peace. And Mummy’s homemade meal deal may just house a Chai Wallah samosa, a Good Day Café blondie, and a piccolo of red wine…

SARAH MOOLLA

BY

Issue

526

/ Mid-March 2025

COVER he oufic eyhum photography e hibition coming to Roseberry Road Studios. Flip to page 35 for more; www.tbeyhumphotos.com

OUT OF TOWN

24 BRADFORD ON AVON In praise of our picturesque neighbour

THE ARTS

35 ARTS INTRO The powerful imagery of oufic eyhum

36 WHAT’S ON People to see, places to go

40 EASTER ACTIVITIES For little bunnies and their grown ups

45 BOOKS r looks at books e ploring resilience

48 MARY SHELLEY he author s troubled life in ath

FOOD & DRINK

52 RESTAURANT Mint Room’s new tasting menu

56 NEWS FEED uggets from ath s foodie scene

LIFESTYLE

63 SHOP LEAD Mother’s Day inspo

64 EDITOR’S CHOICE Say it with a statement vase

EDUCATION

69 SCHOOL GUIDE ictoria ond talks school readiness

BATH LIFE AWARDS PREVIEW

75 20 YEARS OF BLA e look forward, and we look back

NETWORK

91 NETWORK LEAD he remarkable story of nnie loan

96 NETWORK NEWS usiness news, iews, and inter iews

99 CAREER PATH ophie ndrews of tudios

PROPERTY

105 PROPERTY LEAD housing plans

106 PROPERTY NEWS he latest from the market

108 SHOWCASE ew builds in o

DEPARTMENTS

13 SPOTLIGHT he return of the ath alf, with a new name 15 INSTABATH #Puddlegram – it’s a thing

SCENE ello party people

FLATLINE Treasure or trash? 114 BATH LIVES eet rofessor onne ewkes

Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robinsderi.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Victoria Bond, Nic Bottomley, Marianne Cantelo, Elsie Chadwick, David Flatman, Shelley Hughes, Paul Marland, and John Mather Commercial director Pat White pat. white@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Annabel North annabel.north@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Dan Nichols dan.nichols@mediaclash. co.uk Business development executive Ruby Coburn ruby.coburn@mediaclash.co.uk Marketing manager and events executive Olivia Amey Production and distribution manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Matt Gynn matt.gynn@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Gemma Bourne Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bath Life MediaClash, Media House, 1 Widcombe Parade, Bath, BA2 4JT. tel: 01225 475800; www.mediaclash.co.uk. Instagram @TheMediaClash ©All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash. We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath and Bristol. Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO

CHRIS DAW

Bath Half

MAKE MINE A HALF!

The Bath Half returns on 16 March with a new name, a new start, and has a new aturday offering et ath alf, which is now organised by ondon arathon ents, has a split start – beginning at the ictoria belisk in ictoria ark and ending on oyal enue he fast flat route of miles is also the o cial trial race for the orld oad unning hampionships alf arathon, to be held in an Diego this summer he s best distance runners will be targeting the ualifying time to earn their spot in the team o catch the start of the elite runners make sure you re there at am he aturday offering has been rebranded as the et ath iles presented by ath ollege, and is a free, family friendly series of one mile e ents, including a family wa e that is open to all round , participants are e pected with the charities benefiting to include the l heimer s ociety, ancer esearch , and n money raised from participants through ath alf s fundraising partner nthuse was more than , with gift aid, and this only represents a portion of the final amount For more: www.bathhalf.co.uk

One hand in your pocket – we like your style Jerome

The 2024 Bath Half male winner Omar Ahmed coming in at 1:04:42

He did it!

Two’s company

Bath crowds giving it their allShe’s flying along

And they’re off

That over the line feeling

QUIET REFLECTION

While we mortals avoid the puddles, these marvellous photographers see a photo opp

@ahappybathonian

@bristolexplorer

@carabath

@oliverbock

The exhibition was entitled BSU One HundredPortraits

SCENE

THE LATEST ADVENTURES IN PARTY-GOING ACROSS BATH

FACE TIME

Bath Spa University (BSU) recently held an exhibition featuring one hundred portraits.It was the result of a collaboration between BSU’s communications and brand development team, with colleagues and students from theBA photography team who captured a unique snapshot of the people who live, work and study at BSU.

James Arthur Allen, senior lecturer in photography, and BSU One HundredPortraits projectlead, said, “For each of the 100portraits, we’ve documented the person, but also captured the story of who they are.”

For more: www.bathspa.ac.uk

Naomi Wood

Amethyst Biggs, Kat Blake, Lucy Stone, Corrina Mackenzie and Matt Francis Bryanna Knight

Sue Rigby

Ayesha Chawdhry Manek

Mo Hassan and Zoe Agbana

Darren Barnfield and Niklas Aare

James Arthur Allen

Silvia Chavushogh

Femi Lawal

HERO HELP

The Rugby for Heroes Charity dinner was recently held at the Roman Baths & Pump Rooms Bath. Attended by patron Mike Tindall MBE and actor Julian Lewis-Jones, who is an ambassador, the event was also sponsored by Watches of Bath, The Bath Clinic, Sepoy Club Restaurant and Radio Bath.

The local charity works with the rugby community to raise funds and awareness in support of military personnel who are making the transition to civilian life and the charity assists with personal and financial support.

Photos by Darius Jéan; www.dariusjean.com For more: www.rugbyforheroes.org.uk

Guests enjoying the reception around the Roman Baths

James and Lois Mercer with Mike Tindall

Yury Revich

Actor Julian Lewis Jones second from left, the Rugby for Heroes ambassador, with trustees and guests

Sepoy Club guests

Steve Fountain

Chivenor Military Ladies Choir

Mike Tindall with Emma and Andrew Summers

Stephanie Hill

The Sepoy Club Bath with Mike Tindall

WOMEN AT WORK

Michelle de Klerk founder of The Women’s Chapter, along with Rebecca Morley, founder of Third House and lead for The Women’s Chapter West, hosted a signature charity lunch at Bybrook restaurant at The Manor House for women in business. The event, which was attended by around 60 guests, helped raise funds for the King’s Trust Women Supporting Women and Hospitality Action, and featured keynote speaker Jo Fairley, co-founder of Green & Black’s.

by Suzy Slemen; www.suzyslemen.com For more: www.womenschapter.com

Around

Gerri Hansen, Rachel Davies, Rebecca Morley and Becca Meadows

60 guests attended the The Women’s Chapter charity event

Camilla Collins and Robyn Blackmore

Charlotte Keen and Lauren Couch

Kirstie Garrett, Jo Fairley and Jacqui Ponde

Donna Maneva

Jo Fairley was a keynote speaker

Photos

Atifa Ismailmiya-Balding and Michelle de Klerk

Lisa Smallpiece and Cathy Homer

Natalie Binstead-Wey and Jane Roques-Shaw

Tia Grazette, Rebecca Morley and Lisa Franklin

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FLAT LINE DAVID FLATMAN

The finer things

One

person’s aspirational treasures are liable to be metaphorically trashed by another

As a dynamic young thruster living the London life a couple of decades ago, I decided to buy myself a car that I couldn t afford know, it s all a little tragic and predictable, but I was – and am – an obsessive in this area, so I did it anyway. And all on the advice of my father: “You can always sell it, mate.” A damn good point, so in I went.

Anyway, the car was totally adored and regret none of the financial sting that flicked around and nipped me on the wallet pocket on my backside when I chose to upgrade it to an even posher one a while later. In fact I regret none of the money I’ve lost on cars over the years. Not because I have so much that it doesn’t matter, but because I’ve loved e ery one of said ehicles su ciently that what I remember of the experiences is never anything to do with the practicalities of it all.

I was once pulling said motor out of my garage in London and had to inch it past a delivery man’s van. He’d blocked my path as he was only going to be a second – no problems there – but then his van had refused to start. I had to get to work, so there we were, shimmying and revving, to-me-to-you, when he decided to take a phone call and stop directing me. “Oi!” I ventured, “any danger?” And his reply never left me: “It’s only a piece of metal, fella!”

It wasn’t, though. It was mine and I loved it and I’d paid my own actual money for it. I think I probably said something unedifying at this point, made it out scratchless, and chopped off into the bowels of not yet trendy Hackney.

All of this brings me loosely and indirectly to the question in my mind around which this column is supposedly based: would you actually want to live on the Royal Crescent?

“It’s only a piece of metal, fella!”

You see, there’s a standard Bath answer here, which is that there are too many tourists wandering along there every day taking pictures and generally occupying the space. And while there is some validity to this the default observation, I think that more people say it than actually mean it. It’s like the van driver describing my beloved car in such dismissive terms, in that it’s easy to dismiss as undesirable something that you will likely never be able to obtain.

Far too much time on many dog walks has been spent weighing up the pros and cons of Royal Crescent living, and my conclusion is that of course you’d bloody well have a house there if you could. Mega location, superconvenient for pints and pizzas, tons of room to swing your luxurious Persian cats around, fascinating and glamorous provenance, and utterly, utterly beautiful. Though I do reckon I’d have one at the far end, though, as lots of the touristy types seem to get bored by about half way round, so by living beyond the hotel you’d accidentally photobomb fewer shots from your kitchen window, hopefully fully clothed.

Was this subject worth a whole page of your time? No, probably not. Next week we’ll cover what I’d do if I won the Euromillions, so that’s something to look forward to. In the meantime, until that windfall drops, all I need is for someone to flog me their house on the Cres’ at mates rates. After all, it’s only bricks and mortar, fella…

David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on X/Twitter @davidflatman and Insta @dflatman

BY

The town is more than just a pretty face

PHOTO

ELLIE MCCALLUM PHOTOGRAPHY

Want to know how to experience the best of our next door neighbour, Bradford on Avon? Ask those who truly know. The residents, the retailers and business owners who live, love and work in the town open up their little black book of BoA and share their thoughts, top tips, secret spots and must-do recommendations.

“Rich in history and architecture, Bradford on Avon is small enough to walk everywhere yet has many benefits of larger towns. It has excellent bus and railway links – Bath is just a short train ride away – and the River Avon and the canal provide plenty of opportunities to walk or cycle and explore the area,” says the independent search agent Jenna Travers. “The town is not a museum (although it does have one), it lives and breathes and has a vibrant community spirit and with its two primary schools and one secondary

school there are plenty of families living here and plenty more who would like to. This is a town that has managed to keep its identity in a changing world, yet one that looks to the future with confidence

Shops: In the centre of town the Shambles, on the site of medieval market stalls, is home to an eclectic selection of independent shops and businesses that cater for everyone, including Meat@The Shambles, The Bolthole café, and a greengrocers. Previous, a design-led life store from nearby Corsham has moved in, as well as a fresh, new bakery, Pipit, close by on Silver treet ittle ituals coffee shop is further up Silver Street and, up Market Street, there is The Cheese Shop and a new venture in Pottery Palette. Vitality Spa is the place to go to relax and be pampered and dogs are not forgotten with their own special café, the Doghouse, which ser es coffee and all things canine, including grooming! The Barber Lounge provides the same service for humans.

“To walk around Bradford on Avon is to walk alongside history”

Walks: To walk around Bradford on Avon is to walk alongside history and the town is justly proud of its architecture. No visit would be complete without going to the parish church, Holy Trinity, at the heart of the town alongside the Saxon Chapel. Across the river is the Tithe Barn, a 14th century stone barn with a wonderful cruck roof. It is at the heart of Barton Farm, between the river and the canal and where the delightful Little Barn café can also be found – a real treat serving Turkish food, with artists’ studios nearby and children’s play areas.

Coming soon: Look out for The Old Wharf Bakery, a canal-side modern eating space which is opening later this spring. Sarah Pettitt, joint owner of the bakery tells me that in this pictures ue space the bakery will ser e coffee, delicious baked goods, breakfast and supper. It’s a wonderful spot next to the canal. To have a fresh modern eating space there is going to be really exciting for the community and visitors alike.

“I grew up in Bradford on Avon and I’m still discovering things I love about it,” says Sarah Milbur, managing director of Prism Jewellery Design who are pioneers in titanium jewellery design. “I love the iconic Bath stone old weaving cottages that span across the hill and it has great community events in the summer such as the duck race, the Bradford Roots festival and the weekly town market.”

Eats: Try Ravello for great Italian food and service. The Thai Barn has really yummy Thai cuisine, and Little Rituals has wonderful coffee and sourdough sandwiches in a gorgeous setting of plant and flowers he ittle arn next to the Tithe Barn does great Turkish pastries and brunch. The Tithe Barn is a must see of course, and provides refuge on too hot a day!

Arts: The Wiltshire Music Centre is the best venue for sit down gigs, attracting some very talented artists and The Three Horseshoes is the best place for free gigs.

Shops: Piha sells lovely gifts, including our earrings. I’m a big fan of The Cheese Shop and Christine’s Sustainable Supermarket. Explore: St Mary’s Chapel (also known as St Mary Tory) is a tiny old chapel on the hill with great views and Sladesbrook Park is best park in town, and where we take our daughter.

There’s lots of lovely walks to choose from

PHOTO BY TERESA FABIAN

“BoA has a lovely sense of community,’ says Jo Reardon marketing and publicity manager of the notfor-profit charitable organisation If Opera. “It’s a small town where you quickly become familiar with local faces and there’s always a friendly welcome in the shops and businesses he recent floods highlighted the strong sense of community here, where locals rallied to help local businesses and the town came together to support them howe er they could. I’ve lived here for 13 years and the warmth of the community is something e always valued.”

Arts: I’m biased, of course, but If Opera’s annual festi al in ugust is a highlight – talent from across the UK descends on our sleepy little town for two weeks every summer to produce the most ama ing, original opera performances his year is shaping up to be really special – we ll be based just outside radford on on in ingfield, with brilliant performances and a brand-new restaurant in conjunction with omewood ath m also keeping an eye out for when the Creative Makers Markets can return to the t argaret s all after flooding repairs for beautiful gifts and homewares from local makers.

“Big enough to be lively, small enough to feel like home”

Shops: he hambles is my fa ourite shopping spot. Most weekends I’ll call into the butchers and greengrocers – both independently run with brilliant produce. Ex Libris is a fantastic bookshop, new and second-hand books on e ery subject you can imagine, and re ious has unusual and beautiful gifts and homewares mi ed in with intage finds

Hidden gem: The museum above the library is a treasure tro e worth seeking out – it comes with a complete preservation of The Christopher Shop, a pharmacy established in and packed with genuine anti ue lotions and potions.

“Bradford on Avon is uni ue and big enough to be lively, small enough to feel like home,” says Teresa Fabian owner of the Bradford on Avon Holiday Cottage. “With family-friendly events all year round, it is a welcoming place for all ages

Eats: For cosy pub ibes, lo e he eorge, Timbrells Yard, and The Castle Inn. I combine a dog walk with grabbing a coffee or lunch at ild erb afe in olt, artley Farm in Winsley, or Little Barn near the Tithe Barn. In town, ittle ituals and eraki are my coffee favourites, while Ravellos for Italian and Thai Barn for Thai food are must-tries. Do not miss

Bunch of Grapes, a Michelin Guide-listed bistro with Parisian charm and a fantastic weekend bakery.

Arts: f pera hosts summer ja picnics and operas in stunning settings he radfordians

Dramatic Society puts on incredible plays in the historic Tithe Barn each summer. Seasonal highlights include the hristmas ights switch-on, the local Green Man Festival, and the Food and Drink Festival.

Explore: tand up paddleboarding on the ri er is great fun, just be careful of the swans

The 14th-century Tithe Barn is one of the largest medie al barns in the country he own ridge has a uirky prison cell, while t ary ory, a small church on a pilgrim trail, offers stunning iews o er the town

Shops: Christine’s Sustainable Supermarket is great for organic produce, y the ay has lo ely cards and gifts, and the Doghouse is a treat for my two Cavaliers.

ABOVE: The picturesque Church Farm, the original home of If Opera; BELOW: Bath stone former weaving cottages span across the hill

PHOTO BY MERRYN RYLES

PHOTO BY SAVILLS

OUT OF TOWN

“The community spirit of this town was witnessed during the recent floods of o ember, says Marni Poole operations manager of Dible & Roy Interiors, a family run business dedicated all things interior design any businesses like ours suffered and the residents rushed to help, forming human chains to sa e our stock and helping with the clear up operation

Eats: ou can t beat imbrell s ard for an indulgent, special meal, cooked to an incredibly high standard, and using local produce hey also offer a lo ely coffee and cake selection for uick bites and are open in the e enings with a superb cocktail menu

Arts: he ithe arn orkshops are a great place to meet some of the many local artists and browse their work for sale such as ceramics, oil paintings, glassware, jewellery and more ary ceramics and ac ueline drawing also offer classes and art e periences he est iltshire usic entre deli ers a huge programme of music and performance e ents from both local artists and from around the world

It’s a small town with a big heart and true community spirit

BY

Explore: ur nglo a on hurch is belie ed to date back to the th entury and is a lo ely e ample of the style of small worship spaces of the time he medie al ithe arn with its beautiful wooden beams, is a triumph of sympathetic restoration and e okes a tangible sense of our past hese buildings are both free to isit

Shops: he Doghouse is a ha en for the many dog owners in the town including myself with my collie a hristine s ustainable upermarket is the hub for all organic, fairtrade, ethically and locally sourced products.

Hidden gem: he tumble nn is a small friendly traditional pub that s perfect for a uiet drink here s no screens or music, but it does ha e board games and a great selection of local ales and ciders

Bradford on Avon

Massage’s owner and lead therapist Lindsay Furness says, he best thing about radford on on is the community it s a beautiful little town with a big heart he people here are so friendly and welcoming

“Bradford on Avon has a thriving arts scene”

e are lucky enough to li e on a house boat on the ennet and on canal which runs through o he canal has a ibrant and di erse community which feels ery welcomed in radford on on t brings a beautiful bohemian edge into the mi adding to radford on on s uni ue eclectic culture

Eats: ereki, a sweet little reek cafe across the road does the most ama ing goats cheese bakes and orange cake For lunch on the go often grab a pi a slice from the local bakery ipit dri led with chilli oil – yum

Arts: e also often enjoy li e performances in amb ard stand out e ent from last year was f pera treating us to a stunning afternoon of entertainment.

Walks: here are so many lo ely walks around radford on on, but one of our fa ourites is along the ennet and on canal up to oncliff with a pitstop in the beautiful rossguns pub

Shops: e are so proud of all our independent retailers here really is so much to e plore and rafted irrors, is my absolute fa ourite – a uni ue and rustic treasure tro e of mirrors, home wear and furniture t s an interior designers dream with so many uirky pieces, it s an eclectic mi of intage, industrial, shabby chic and modern design lo e e ploring in there heir ethos for sustainability, restoration, and up cycling, means there is always something new and uni ue to look at econd and ose is great for clothing ou get some really lo ely pieces in there and m all about sustainable affordable fashion y he ay gift shop on il er treet is my absolute go to for any little presents –e erything in there is beautiful

Francesca Watson property buying agent and co-founder of Otters Home Search says, radford on on is known for its strong community feel, with a mi of families, retirees, and creati es calling it home

Housing ranges from historic townhouses to modern de elopments, with a ibrant high street supporting independent businesses

Eats: weetpea at he ea ing hed is a must isit, offering delightful homemade cakes, seasonal dishes, and a bright and airy atmosphere by the ri er he outdoor terrace comes into its own in good weather For a more refined dining e perience, check out the la carte or tasting menus at the unch of rapes on il er treet

Outdoors: For those who lo e the great outdoors, he ennet and on anal is perfect for a scenic walk or a leisurely bike ride earby, arton Farm ountry ark offers pictures ue picnic spots and ri erside strolls, essential refreshments from ittle arn and hidden rope swings in the trees between the ri er and canal f you re into sports, umberwell ark olf lub pro ides e cellent courses, while radford on on oat lub offers the chance to take to the water with rowing and canoeing clubs

Hidden gem: aybe not a hidden gem anymore but Fi e ero upercars t is an incredible showroom, e ent space and merican diner that features a collection of lu ury and rare supercars ar enthusiasts will lo e the chance to get up close with some of the most stunning ehicles in the world

PHOTO

CHRIS DAW

• Womenswear

• Accessories

• Bath + Beauty

• Vintage TWO DESIGN-LED

• Jewellery

• Homewares

• Man Gifts

• Toys + Kids

• Stationery

Marianne Cartwright-Hignett, the owner and manager of Iford Manor, a rural di ersified estate, with a restaurant, caf , gardens and miles of footpaths through the working farm, says, eryone in o is ery friendly and welcoming, often with a lo e for nature, arts and music t s full of independent shops and history– it is a wonderful place

Eats: s a mum to two, energetic young boys, spend a lot of time in the fantastic playground by the ithe arn on o he ittle arn caf near there is brilliant beautiful space with fantastic hot chocolate, a friendly welcome and yummy food for tummies of all si es

Arts: he acclaimed rchestra of the ge of nlightenment perform regularly at the wonderful iltshire usic entre and ha e been a patron of the since before left ondon to mo e to ford t is such a treat to see them play here o is also full of festi als throughout the year, from the community orchard wassail in anuary, reen an Festi al in ay, our own a Festi al at ford, and the legendary annual o duck race

Walks: Don t miss a walk along the canal from the ithe arn to the stunning oncliff, a truly special place and best reached on foot t s simply beautiful, full of architecture and history with no through road just the

a ueduct and railway ake time whilst there to enjoy your surroundings, and refuel, with refreshments at the ross uns temporarily closed or o ea arden

Shops: For interiors, Dible oy is our go to therwise, the joy of shopping in o is e ploring its many independent shops, each carefully curated by their owner, whilst e ploring he hambles, amb ard and il er treet

Hidden gem: elcombe ourt – look out for their charity openings for a chance to e perience their special gardens

Jo Lewis, lettings negotiator and property manager with estate agents

Cobb Farr, says, radford on on is a ery inclusi e town with a range of housing for all From young families to retired residents, there are e ents and clubs to suit all

Eats: ituals af is situated in a great, central location with a good atmosphere and ser ing e cellent coffee, fresh sandwiches and you can pick up a bunch of flower or plant whilst you are there he unch of rapes has a great selection of cocktails, ery good food, atmosphere and helpful staff obb Farr held their hristmas party there last year

Walks and sports: huge selection of dog

walks are a ailable along the ennet and on anal, the i er on and the surrounding countryside he radford on on oat lub also caters for all le els of rowers and canoeists here are regular e ents held at the arton Farm ountry ark he large rubber calender machine he ron Duke, situated in ingston oad, hails back to the town s wool industry – it s great to be able to see some of the original machinery

Hidden gem: t ary ory, dating back to the th century, the church is still a functioning place of worship but often o erlooked by locals and tourists as a place of interest t sits on one of radford on on highest points with no ehicular access and thus offers, peace, tran uillity and the most wonderful iews across the town

Nathan Baranowski CEO of the digital impact agency

Digital Wonderlab says, ith our o ce based in the heart of radford on on, we e had plenty of time to e plore what makes this town so special ne of the things we lo e most is the weekly market, where we can pick up fresh, local produce right on our doorstep he food stalls ne er disappoint, and among the team, there s a particular fondness for the pies hether you re grabbing a uick bite or stocking up for the weekend, it s a great way to support local businesses

Sports: ur o ce paddleboards are well used in the summer months, offering some rela ing time on the water taking in the beautiful surroundings

Walks: eing surrounded by countryside means we make the most of the outdoors, whether it s a lunchtime stroll or something more ad enturous e re also lucky to ha e lots of o ce dogs, and they lo e a lunchtime walk along the towpath just as much as we do hether it s a uick stretch of the legs or a longer wander to on liff, there are plenty of walks to enjoy

Hidden gem: hen it comes to unwinding, one of our fa ourite spots has to be ettlesmith rewery ap oom ucked away ne t to the canal, it s a small but brilliant microbrewery few of us ha e taken the scenic walk down there on a summer day to enjoy a well earned pint, and it s become a bit of a team fa ourite f you re in the area, it s definitely worth a isit

“It’s full of independent shops and history”

Riverside strolls with four legged friends is a big part of BoA life

PHOTO BY TERESA FABIAN

Jackie Allan is director of Piha which stocks clothing made from as natural as possible materials to compliment the earth, was originally a surf and ski wear shop when it first opened in 2008.

Eats: There are lots of fantastic restaurants in Bradford on Avon and I have been to all of them over the 27 years of living here. You can’t beat Il Fiume for fresh food and good value. Next to Piha in Lamb Yard is Pablos – sitting outside with a glass of wine, buffalo cauliflower and crispy pork belly tapas is just wonderful. Avon Spice has recently moved to a restaurant on the river, renamed River Spice, and has the best Indian food for miles. When I meet up with my dad, we go to the Bolthole in the Shambles for tea and cake. The cakes are home baked and enormous, and the service is excellent.

Arts: Our home grown Bradfordians do not disappoint each year with their productions often performing in the Tithe Barn. We have music events in Lamb Yard three times a year and our fabulous annual Green Man Festival, this year on 10 May, brings thousands of people to the town to watch over 40 troops of dancers performing all over the town. The Three Horseshoes is a must for music and their summer music festival is exotic and provocative.

Sports: We have our fabulous rugby club, our Bradford on Avon FC and well used tennis courts. Our bowling club is well subscribed and our swimming pool has so many activities for all ages.

Shops: Made in Bradford on Avon is a gallery of local artists works in Lamb Yard. Ex Libris is a treasure trove of books with its hidden barn in the Shambles. The Granary shop is full of great gifts and furniture. I also run a monthly market in Lamb Yard that runs April to December on the first Friday of the month which is full of artisan produce such as art, jewellery, soft furnishing, fudge, jams, plants, cakes, and wood work. n

THE INSIDER’S BOA ADDRESS BOOK

Avoncliff; www.avoncliff.co.uk

The Barber Lounge; www.thebarberloungeboa.com

Belcombe Court; www.belcombe.com

The Bolthole; www.theboltholeboa.com

Bradford on Avon Boat Club; www.boabc.org.uk

Bradford on Avon Museum; www.bradfordonavonmuseum.co.uk

Bradford on Avon Holiday Cottage; Instagram: @bradfordonavonholidaycottage

Bradford on Avon Massage; www.bradfordonavonmassage.co.uk

Bradford on Avon Rugby FC; www.bradfordonavonrfc.rfu.club

The Bridge Tea Rooms; www.thebridgetearooms.co.uk

The Bunch of Grapes; www.thebunchofgrapes.com

Carina B Couture; www.carinabcouture.com

The Castle Inn; www.thecastleinnboa.co.uk

The Cheese Shop; www.cheese-shop.co.uk

Christine’s Sustainable Supermarket; Facebook @ ChristinesSustainableSupermarketBOA Cobb Farr, 37 Market St; www.cobbfarr.com

Creative Makers Markets; Instagram @creative.makers.market

Cross Guns; Facebook @CrossGunsAvoncliff

Cumberwell Park Golf Club; www.cumberwellpark.com

Dible & Roy Interiors; www.dibleandroy.co.uk

Digital Wonderlab; www.digitalwonderlab.com

Doghouse; www.doghouse.co.uk

Ex Libris; tel: 01225 863595

Five Zero Supercars; www.fivezeros.co.uk

The George; www.thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk

The Granary; www.thegranaryboa.com Green Man Festival; www.boagreenmanfest.org

Hand Crafted Mirrors; www.handcraftedmirrors.co.uk

Hartley Farm; www.hartley-farm.co.uk

If Opera; www.ifopera.com

Iford Manor Estate; www.ifordmanor.co.uk

Il Fiume Ristorante Italiano; www.ilfiume.co.uk

Jenna Travers Property Search; www.jennatravers.com

Kettlesmith Brewery & Tap Room; www.kettlesmithbrewing.com

Lamb Yard Events; Facebook @lambyard

Little Barn; www.littlebarnboa.com

Little Rituals; www.little-rituals.co.uk

Made in Bradford on Avon; www.madeinbradfordonavon.co.uk

No.10 Tea Gardens; www.avonclifftea.com

Otters Home Search; www.ottershomesearch.com

Pablos Tapas; www. pablostapas.com

Piha; www.piha.co.uk

Pipit Bakery; Instagram @pipitbakery

Pottery Palette; www.potterypalette.co.uk

Previous Homewares; www.previoushomewares.co.uk

Ravello; www.ravelloboa.co.uk

River Spice; www.riverspiceboa.co.uk

Second Hand Rose; www.secondhandroseroundabout.co.uk

The Stumble Inn; Facebook @stumbleinnboa

Sweetpea at The Weaving Shed; www.sweetpeacatering.co.uk

Thai Barn; www.thaibarn.co.uk

The Three Horseshoes; tel: 01225 865876

Tithe Barn; www.english-heritage.org.uk

Timbrell’s Yard; www.timbrellsyard.com

Vitality Spa; www.vitalitydayspa.co.uk

Wild Herb Cafe; www.glovefactorystudios.com

Wiltshire Music Centre; www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk

The Cheese Shop is a big BoA favourite

PHOTO BY COLIN RAYNER PHOTOGRAPHY

Bradford on Avon has its own Green Man festival in May

PHOTO BY CHRIS DAW

APRIL

2nd April – Puccini La Bohème

3rd April – Puccini Madama Butter y

5th April – Money for Nothing: Europe’s #1 Dire Straits Tribute Show

8th April – Bath Philharmonia & Benjamin Grosvenor

9th April – Karen Hauer & Gorka Marquez: Speakeasy

10th April – Sounds of the 60’s Live

11th April – Henning Wehn: Acid Wehn

12th April – Sweet and Sour: The Ultimate Tribute to Sabrina Carpenter & Olivia Rodrigo

14th April – Andy and the Odd Socks

16th April – The Bootleg Beatles

17th April – Anastacia

23rd April – The Musical Box: Genesis Live

24th April – Toots and the Maytals feat. Leba Hibbert

25th April – A Tribute to the Carpenters

26th April – The Fulltone Orchestra: Latin Escapades

30th April – Razorlight

9th April Money for Nothing: Europe’s #1 Dire Straits Tribute Show 5th April

April

Puccini La Bohème 2nd April

Sweet and Sour: The Ultimate Tribute to Sabrina Carpenter & Olivia Rodrigo 12th April

Toots and the Maytals feat. Leba Hibbert 24th April

Karen Hauer & Gorka Marquez: Speakeasy

THE ARTS

SNAPSHOTS OF BATH’S CULTURAL LIFE

POWER ON

From 13 March until 30 March the acclaimed and internationally celebrated work of Toufic Beyhum can be seen at Bath’s Roseberry Studios. Born in war-torn Beirut in 1974, Toufic was exiled to London as a child of war, amd now divides his time between the UK and Namibia

A visualist from a young age, he first showed an interest in photography at the age of 1 , later refining his skills at the Heatherley School of Fine Art and Somerset College of Arts and Technology. He has been photographing ever since.

His career as a creative has taken him across the globe, further enriching his visual lexicon and grounding his photography in an exploration of identity, heritage, and the interplay of cultures. His frames are not passive but demand interaction, compelling observers to lend their own rendition, making the work as much about the viewer as it is about the subject.

Discover the photography of Toufic Beyhum at Roseberry Road Studios, 13 – 30 March; www.roseberryroadstudios.com

WHAT’S ON

7 March –5 April

EXHIBITIONS

Until 19 March

TWIN CITIES

Berdoulat hosts the debut exhibition of Roger Barnard which showcases the streetscapes of two cities: Bath and Paris. Barnard’s signature uid style captures the essence of urban life and explores the interplay between spontaneity and tranquillity. www.berdoulat.co.uk

Until 13 April

ESSENCE OF BATH

Perry Harris, the Bath-centric artist focuses on cartoons of the city and watercolours of favourite local landscapes in an exhibition that complements the Victoria Art Gallery’s Mirror of Mirth collection running at the same time which features the work of late 18th century artist satirists Thomas Rowlandson and John Nixon. www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 27 April

AN UNCOMMON THREAD

This current Hauser & Wirth Somerset collection features ten contemporary artists – Rachael Louise Bailey, Max Boyla, KV Duong, Charlotte Edey, Nour Jaouda, Lindsey Mendick, Jack

O’Brien, Nengi Omuku, Tai Shani and Georg Wilson – with an exhibition highlighting the transformative power of unconventional mediums in evoking personal and collective memories. www.hauserwirth.com

Until 27 April

I HAVE MORE SOULS THAN ONE

Bath born Joshua Donkor is a painter of Ghanaian and British heritage who now lives in London. His art currently on display at The Holburne touches on themes of memory, nostalgia, family dynamics and diaspora with cultural identity central to the work. www.holburne.org

Until 5 May

ICONIC: PORTRAITURE FROM FRANCIS BACON TO ANDY WARHOL

This unique Holburne exhibition brings rarely-seen works together including that of Peter Blake, Pauline Boty, Richard Hamilton, and Gerhard Richter, to explore the ways artists are inspired by photography. www.holburne.org

Until 9 May

FUSION 2025

A creative collaboration between

Bath Spa University (BSU) and the RUH, the exhibition showcases a wide range of work including paintings, prints, textiles and ceramics from Bath Spa students, sta and alumni .www.artatruh.org

Until 26 May

DIEDRICK BRACKENS: WOVEN STORIES

The large-scale, hand-crafted tapestries by the Texan artist include West African weaving, quilting from the American South and European tapestry-making. They present a rich, nuanced visions of African American life and identity, while also alluding to the complicated histories of labour and migration. www.holburne.org

Until 22 June

MYTHS AND MEMORIES: RENAISSANCE MAPS

The American Museum & Gardens presents one of the finest collections of Renaissance maps in the world, reframing the way the maps have historically been shown. The curation of more than 40 maps demonstrates a range of perspectives and forms on the historical documents, as well as highlighting their incredible artistry. www.americanmuseum.org

15 March – 15 June

THE BOTANICAL WORLD OF MARY DELANY AND GEORGIE HOPTON

The Gallery at No.1 Royal Crescent presents a unique, collaborative project focused on the work of two women artists, Mary Delany (1700–1788) and Georgie Hopton (1967–) curated by Ingrid Swenson. Connecting these two artists is their shared passion for and knowledge of plants and specifically owers. www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk

THEATRE / CINEMA

12 – 15 March

THE UNFRIEND ritten by Steven Mo at and performed by Platform 8 at the Rondo, this tells the darkly comedic tale of the American holiday friend who turns up out of the blue to stay with a couple she’s just met on a cruise. www.rondotheatre.co.uk

18 – 19 March

THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY

A remarkable adaptation of the Oscar Wilde’s classic at the Ustinov featuring unique puppetry and a

Hannah White is just one of the performers playing the 7 Hills Spring Sessions, which takes over three days around the city

FROMTOPLEFT: A plethora of funny people including Maisie Adam are heading our way for the Bath Comedy Festival which starts 31 March; the exhibition of Joshua Donkor continues at the Holburne until 27 April; La Bohème that tells the tragic tale of the doomed, consumptive Mimi and her love for a penniless writer comes to Bath Forum on 2 April; the work of Roger Barnard can be seen at the Twin Cities exhibition at Berdoulat until 19 March

MUSIC

21 – 23 March

THE 7 HILLS: SPRING SESSIONS

An incredible line-up of music across three days curated by Matt Owens featuring 110 bands including The Magic Numbers, Thea Gilmore, Beth Rowley, The Korgis, Hannah White and Scott Laven, performing at six venues such as Bath Brew House, and the Apex Hotel. www.the7hills.com

29 March

FLAMENCO EXPRESS

powerful original soundtrack telling the story of the young man who never aged. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

20 – 22 March

BIRDWATCHING

Friends Amelia, Poppy and Lauren are wild camping but as the forest darkens around them, tensions are, and a watchful presence seems to takes hold in this folk horror tale. Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

22 March – 12 April

ALFRED HITCHCOCK PRESENTS – THE MUSICAL

A stellar cast including Scarlett Strallen, Sally Ann Triplett, Nicola Hughes, Gary Milner, and Damian Humbley tell extraordinary interwoven tales of betrayal, blackmail and homicide in the style of Alfred Hitchcock in this world première at the Theatre Royal. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Flamenco Express perform at Chapel Arts with a new cargo of raw, heart-wrenching amenco –with sizzling soloist La Joaquina, guitar virtuoso Chris Clavo, the massive vocal presence of Antonio El Pola; plus the riveting talent of new guest, Kuky Santiago, king of Cádiz. www.chapelarts.org

14 March

ULTIMATE RNB

Komedia hosts a full sevenpiece live band featuring session musicians and vocalists that have played with some stone-cold legends including Jocelyn Brown, Mica Paris, and Soul to Soul. Expect legendary RnB classics such as En Vogue, Lauryn Hill, Sisqo, Next, TLC, and Boyz II Men. www.komediabath.co.uk

2 April

LA BOHÈME

Senbla presents Opera International’s award-winning Ellen Kent Production featuring the Ukrainian Opera & Ballet Theatre Kyiv, with soloists, highlypraised chorus and full orchestra performing the Puccini classic at Bath Forum. www.bathforum.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk

COMEDY

Every Friday and Saturday KROWD KEEPERS

The Ale House on York Street has a secret room where some of the world’s finest magicians perform, hosted by resident conjurer Billy Kidd when she’s in town, and who promises us no rabbits or top hats. www.krowdkeepers.com

31 March – 21 April

THE BATH COMEDY FESTIVAL

It’s back bigger, better and funnier than with a whole host of top stand-up names and new talent filling the bill and filling venues across the city including Bobby Davro (8 April at Upstairs @ BathPizzaCo), Markus Birdman (Rondo on 4 April), Maisie Adam (Guildhall on 19 April), Rich Hall (Komedia on 16 April), and with the new act competitions at the Nowhere bar starting 31 March. Look out for the Roman pantomime at the Roman Baths on 9 April www.bathcomedy.com

CHILDREN

13 – 19 March

SANDSCAPES

Sandscape is a silent theatrical piece, performed by Kininso Koncepts Production direct from Nigeria. It embraces the beauty and essence of nature by exploring the texture, weight, and breath of sand on various materials. Suitable 2 – 7 years. The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

OTHER

10 – 29 March

CURIOUS MINDS: A FESTIVAL TO IGNITE IDEAS

A packed programme of podcasts events, talks, music, writing workshops, and the new Movie at the Museum series put together by the Bath Arts Collective. Highlights include Robert Beckford and Shawn Sobers at BRSLI talking about the Beckford legacy; The 7 Hills Spring Sessions; and Mary Shelley’s in Bath (turn to page 48 for more). www.batharts.co.uk

CULTURE CLUB with Michael Maloney

Michael Maloney stars as the celebrated Belgium sleuth Hercule Poirot in Murder on the Orient Express playing at the Theatre Royal Bath from 11 – 15 March. Michael’s extensive TV and film credits include Belfast, Notes on a Scandal, Truly Madly Deeply, The Iron Lady, Young Victoria, The Trial of Christine Keeler, and The Crown

The last great film I saw The Holdovers directed by Alexander Payne and starring Paul Giamatti. But I think you can’t see a bad film. Something always happens to you, even if it’s only sitting still!

A film I could watch over and over again

The Last Samurai, a shining example of total commitment from all involved.

A painting that means something to me

Flaming June by Lord Frederic Leighton. A painting linked with a time of youthful romance and infinite inspiration.

Best TV show ever… Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip created by Aaron Sorkin – a tribute to live comedy television.

My TV guilty pleasure Queer Eye For The Straight Guy,

PHOTO BY JAY BROOKS

any series, any era. Gentlemen, please come do my kitchen!

The book that changed my life The Hobbit at the of age ten. Even if I was in hot water, I could genuinely get lost in that world.

Last live music gig Latitude Festival last year on the Saturday, I especially loved The Vaccines and Waxahatchee.

My desert island disc Hymn To Freedom by the Canadian jazz pianist and composer Oscar Peterson.

The first single I bought and the first song I remember hearing Twist and Shout by The Beatles, later on Hello, I Love You by The Doors. That’s the one where your old life ends and the new one begins!

My karaoke go-to I recently sang Wrecking Ball by Miley Cyrus at karaoke and made no concession to the actual tune. Very proud.

My podcast pick I’m in a podcast drama called Night Games by Craig Warner. He’s a brilliant writer. It’s available on all things.

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Michael Maloney is proud of his Wrecking Ball rendition

The latest collection by RUH’s Art in the Heart is a collaboration with Bath Spa University

A hidden-away venue above the streets of Bath, The Drawing Rooms is a 3-storey Georgian Townhouse o ering a decadent home from home for those looking for a friendly grown-up crowd- with great cocktails, wine & legendary live piano sessions.

DECADENT COCKTAILS

LIVE PIANO FRI & SAT COCKTAIL MASTERCLASSES KARAOKE ROOM PRIVATE HIRE ROOMS

The Drawing Rooms is open Wednesday –Saturday evenings until late and we welcome locals and visitors alike. We recommend prior booking for our busy weekend piano bar at tdrbath.club/bookings

UPPER FLOORS, BEAU NASH HOUSE, 19 UNION PASSAGE, BATH, BA1 1RD 01225 580552 hello@thedrawingrooms.co www.thedrawingrooms.co Thu 6pm to 11pm | Fri & Sat 5pm to late

THEDRAWINGROOMSBATH

HOP TO IT

FUN ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY THIS EASTER

Let’s get ready to shell-abrate the Easter holidays with a basket full of activities perfect for little bunnies. Whether you’re searching for egg-citing games, creative crafts, or egg-cellent outdoor adventures, this cracking feature has lots of ideas that will have kids hopping with joy.

1ANIMAL MAGIC

5 April

Spring Fayre at Bath City Farm; www.bathcityfarm.org.uk

The 37 acre working farm, that’s also a charity supporting people with a mental health challenge, hosts its annual Spring Fayre. The full day of fun includes animal feeding, face painting, games, teddy tombola and live music. There’s also the farm’s plant and farm produce shop to browse before leaving.

2CRACK ON

5 – 21 April

Easter egg hunt, Dyrham Park; www.nationaltrust.org.uk

The Easter trail will take place around the beautiful parkland and includes ten activity stations including games and fun challenges.

3CURIOUSER & CURIOUSER

5 – 21 April

Alice in Wonderland, American Museum & Gardens; www. americanmuseum.org

The perfect family day out for the spring school holidays – jump through the looking glass into the world of Wonderland. the white rabbit and discover a giant garden trail and Easter toy prize. Along with the Easter egg search in the museum, there’s tea parties, climband-slide play, creative

activities, and a woodland walk. Go dressed an Easter costume for fun photo opportunities.

4FLOWER POWER

5 – 21 April

Make fab florals at No.1 Royal Crescent; www. no1royalcrescent. org.uk

Decorate your house for Easter with a bold and bright paper flower wreath with a colourful and creative papercraft session. The event is inspired by the new exhibition at The Gallery at No.1 Royal Crescent, The botanical world of Mary Delany and Georgie Hopton – a domestic arrangement

3

5ON IT LIKE AN EASTER BONNET

5 – 22 April

The Great Easter Hat Hunt, The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

Explore the museum galleries and gardens through and creative activities, and look out for Easter bonnet inspiration along the way. On the morning of 15 April there’s a drop in, free to attend, Fan-tastic Paper Fashion workshop with the opportunity to create paper outfits inspired by the museum s collection of silk and paper fans.

4

COOK-AHOOP!

7 – 10 April & 14 – 17 April

Free lessons at Bath Croquet Club; www. bathcroquet. com

Based at the Bath Recreation

7MODEL BEHAVIOUR

12 April

6

Ground the croquet club has launched an academy for 11-18 year olds and, for an opening shot at the game, they’re holding free, four day, introductory sessions. All equipment is provided –just bring a packed lunch and enthusiasm to learn a new sport.

Scale model making workshop at Museum of Bath Architecture; www. museumofbatharchitecture.org.uk

Create your own Georgian doorway façade, modelled on Bath’s famous Paragon with model maker and artist Jess Wright. The workshop will explore the methods and techniques used by model makers to create your own unique 1:20 scale doorway. Suitable for 16 and above with all materials included and no experience necessary. 5

Alice in Follow

EASTER DAYS OUT

11THROWING SHADE

15 – 17 April

erfect ro le Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Use your shadow to draw a profile and make a silhouette the way residents and city visitors did in the 18th century.

8WATER FEATURES

12 April

World Heritage Day, various Bath venues; www. bathworldheritage.org.uk

9GO EXPLORE

14 – 17 April

Eggs-citing discoveries at the Roman Baths; www.romanbaths.co.uk

Celebrate Bath’s World Heritage status with this year’s event exploring the theme ‘Water is best’ with many of our landmark organisations taking part including Bath Abbey, Bath Preservation Trust, the National Trust, and Victoria Art Gallery. There’s a packed programme of free events throughout the day such as how to use watercolours to create a special artwork, learning about the history of the Romans who ‘tamed’ the springs, and the Mayor of Bath’s Honorary Guides will lead guided tours around the Spa Quarter, including a visit to the Abbey plant room.

In the 19th-century excavation of the Great Bath, a complete teal’s egg was found in the mud. To mark the occasion, decorate your own paper egg at the Roman Bath’s craft activities.

10WALKIES!

Until 31 May

Forest Walkies with Wallace & Gromit at Westonbirt Arboretum; www.forestryengland.uk

This is one where pooch can come too and help take on dog-tastic challenges – with everyone’s favourite BAFTA winning dog and owner duo for company. Simply download

the route on the OS Maps app before you go, pick up a cracking activity pack when you arrive and set off for a fun packed forest trail experience, solving crossword clues along the way. .

12ROLL UP ROLL UP!

17 – 27 April or s rc s . or sc rc s.co

Since 2014 Fennells Farm in troud has been home to iffords Circus, and this is where the magic is conjured up before going on a nationwide tour over summer. The village green

10

show brings together acrobats, jugglers, horses, musicians, and dancers, along with ponies, dogs, clowns and comedy to transport the audience into a nostalgic world of entertainment in a slick and dazzling production that would rival any West End show.

13LATER ON 18 – 21 April

Easter Lates at

The Roman Baths; www.romanbaths.co.uk

The Roman Baths will stay open late over the Easter weekend giving visitors a chance to enjoy

the pop-up bar and see the Great ath illuminated by flickering torchlight.

14BOOM BOOM!

21 April

Basil Brush Family Fun Show, Komedia Bath; www.komediabath.co.uk

With the loyal Mr Martin by his side and thanks to the Bath Comedy Festival, the fantastic fox brings his unique brand

of magic and laughter, storytelling and jokes to the Komedia. Basil is celebrating an incredible 50 years in the biz and is inviting hid guests to come and say hello, have their photo taken, and share the worst joke they know. After this kid-friendly event, Basil goes Live & Unleashed for an adults only, no-holds-barred version! n

ONGOING

All year round fun

Bee Happy Glass Designs; www.beehappy glassdesigns.co.uk

Suzanne Baginski offers hands on fused glass workshops at her Bath base. Suitable for those absolute beginners from aged 9+ as well as those with some experience. Courses start at £25 with a whole range of creative options from dreamcatchers to coasters and from garden stakes to flower lanterns.

Splasherist; www.splasherist.com

Splasherist based on Weston’s High Street offers a variety of one-of-a-kind experiences, where imaginations can run wild and rules be forgotten. Its studios are designed to allow would be artists to splash, spray and pour paint their own way and to their heart’s content, to create something truly beautiful. There’s even VIP spaces with the option to play music and bring your own food and drink.

South Wilts Ski Club; www.southwiltsski.com

Thanks to the indoor infinity revolving ski slope there’s literally a level for everyone at this centre in Bapton that’s open seven days a week 9am to 6pm. From the novice who wants to learn the basics of skiing or snowboarding, to the intermediates putting in some pre-holiday practice, as well for the expert to finesse their technique using video analysis and Carv technology.

Fused glass workshops & products

Handmade | Contemporary | Vibrant

To make one of the above items or choose from a selection of other workshops on the website, please call Suzanne on 01225 428506 or email suzanne@beehappyglassdesigns.co.uk

www.beehappyglassdesigns.co.uk

BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

Stories of war, resilience and the strength of the human spirit

“A book’s ability to show us the true devastation of war, upheaval or loss”

When the world is hitting peak levels of dysfunction and every fresh sliver of global news is more incomprehensible than the last, fiction has two crucial cards up its sleeves. The first ace is escapism – a book’s ability to take us far from the real world to a calmer, kinder, funnier place. The second is the ace of understanding – to show us the true devastation of war, upheaval or loss, but also how the human spirit finds a way to piece itself back together.

I promise to dole out escapism next time – but today I want to share three books that showcase resilience quite brilliantly.

Dancing on Knives by locally-based Joanne Rush (Honno, £9.99) is a quiet and beautifully told novel which follows Laura, a young Bosnian woman who we meet working in a university library in Cambridge, just as she falls in love with Adam, a student.

Fast forward and the couple are married and when Adam’s foreign o ce job leads to a sensitive posting in Serbia, Laura follows him to the Balkans. But wounds she carries from the past make this a reluctant trip. We learn of the traumatic death of her mother who was killed when Laura was just nine – and that she and her grandfather were forced to abandon the besieged Sarajevo before they could lay her mother to rest.

These are the ghosts from the past that Laura has buried deep – and they are soon joined by actual ghosts (if you see what I mean). Strangers appear to Laura, telling their stories and sharing the common connection that they too lost their lives in the siege of Sarajevo.

Dancing on Knives is a poetic narrative of one woman’s need for retribution and grief and, ultimately, an uplifting exploration of a journey to healing and moving on.

Further West, Freedom is a Feast by Alejandro Puyana (Little, Brown, £25) is a multi-generational tale, set in Venezuela. Part of the novel begins in the 196 ’s where Stanislavo is deep in the jungle with fellow leftist idealists plotting revolution. Intense friendships are formed, Stanislavo falls in love with a like-minded nurse, and plans are formed to further the “cause”.

In 21st century Caracas, Maria, a gentle housemaid is struggling to make ends meet. Her life turns upside down when her young son is shot at an anti-Chavez march. Ten years later, he’s incarcerated in a violent prison and Maria is fighting the system for news.

Maria and Stanislavo’s stories are destined to intertwine, and through them we see what happens when loyalty to political cause is pitched against loyalty in love. With gorgeous prose and fully-realised memorable characters Freedom is a Feast spotlights the long impact of political turmoil and revolution and considers what happens when disillusionment kicks-in and deeply-held beliefs begin to falter.

Lastly, there’s Forgotten by Sunday by Valerie Perrin (Europa, £9.99). 21-year-old Justine, a nurse at a retirement home, forms a bond with Helene, a longstanding resident living in the past. Justine writes down the life story that Helene shares, from which emerges a complex wartime love story packed with betrayal. In the process Justine is forced to confront secrets from within her own family.

This mysterious emotional novel is packed with storylines peppered with unexpected revelations. Like all of these books – it’s thought-provoking and boasts great storytelling. The perfect mix.

Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; www.mrbsemporium.com

POSITIVE EXPRESSION

VOICES FOR LIFE starstruck by BBC Newsround visit to Bath concert!

Voices for Life was delighted to welcome BBC Newsround to its January Stardust Concert in Bath Abbey, which featured a chorus of 200 children from six local primary schools and the Voices for Life Bath Children’s Choir.

The BBC’s visit came ahead of Children’s Mental Health Week (3 – 9 February), an initiative set up by children’s mental health charity Place2Be to raise awareness of issues surrounding children and young people’s wellbeing.

Investigating singing’s positive impact on children’s happiness for a Children’s Mental Health Week bulletin, the Newsround team were drawn to Stardust’s innovative wellbeing focus. The flagship musical work was written by composer Jools Scott and librettist Sue Curtis, and teaches children how to cope with unhelpful ‘feeling planets’ such as anger and fear en route to their ‘happy planet’ Zarg.

Speaking in the Newsround interview, one young soloist at the concert said,"Singing is really good for my mental health, because it takes my mind away from other things. And it's a great way to express your feeling and emotions".

The positive impact on children participating in Voices for Life’s projects is significant: in 2024, 75 per cent showed increased confidence, while 70 per cent improved their ability to build healthy relationships with their peers.

Besides the BBC, Voices for Life was also delighted to see Deputy Lieutenant of Somerset Edward Bayntun-Coward (one of the charity’s ambassadors) and High Sheriff of Somerset, Robert Beckley, among the 500 audience members.

Schools participating in the project included Castle Primary School, St Mary’s Primary School, St Michael’s Junior School, St Martin’s Garden School, Roundhill Primary School and St Keyna Primary School. The children were joined by

The BBC Newsround Bulletin is available at: www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/articles/cd0j3x275dzo For more information on Voices for Life, visit: www.voicesforlife.org.uk

soloists from Stagecoach Bath, musical director Pete Harrison, narrator John Telfer (The Archers) and the Bristol Ensemble. A Makaton sign language accompaniment was provided thanks to Norland College. n

Photo by Martin Tompkins Photography and Video

EXPERT ADVICE FOR A STRESS-FREE KITCHEN RENOVATION

HOBSON’S CHOICE shares essential tips to help you plan, minimise disruption, and avoid feeling overwhelmed during your kitchen renovation

Akitchen renovation is an exciting opportunity to create a space tailored to your needs. However, with countless decisions to make, the process can feel overwhelming. To ensure a smooth journey, Richard Keyes, head of kitchen design at Hobson’s Choice, shares expert advice on how to navigate the process with confidence and ease.

PLAN AHEAD FOR SUCCESS

Great kitchen design starts long before installation. Reflect on what works in your current kitchen and what needs improvement. “Many homeowners tolerate inconveniences simply because they’ve always been there,” says Richard. “A renovation is your chance to fix them.”

Time is also a crucial factor. Rushing the process can lead to unnecessary stress and missed opportunities. Richard recommends allowing at least six months for the entire project: two months for design, 8-12 weeks for product lead times, and 1-4 weeks for installation. “Start with functionality – layout and flow should come first. Once that’s perfected, selecting materials and finishes becomes far easier.”

MINIMISE DISRUPTION

A kitchen renovation inevitably brings noise, dust, and the temporary loss of a cooking space. Planning ahead can help reduce disruption. “Setting up an alternative cooking and cleaning area is essential,” Richard advises. Washing up manually takes longer than using a dishwasher, so small adjustments to your routine can make a big difference. For some homeowners, temporarily moving out may be a good option, whether staying with family or taking a short holiday. “A trusted team will manage the process while keeping you informed,” says Richard. If staying home, professionals will take measures to minimise mess, but a completely dustfree environment is impossible. Choosing an experienced team ensures they respect and protect your home throughout.

DELEGATE TO EXPERTS

Decision fatigue can set in quickly during a renovation. Richard suggests working with professionals who can handle coordination, scheduling, and problem-solving. “Your designer should take responsibility for managing trades, ensuring deadlines are met, and resolving any issues that arise.”

Making key decisions in advance – such as kitchen layout, lighting, and electrical sockets – allows you to step back and let the project unfold with confidence. “The best way to reduce stress is to plan meticulously and trust in the expertise of your chosen professionals.”

A kitchen renovation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With thoughtful planning, a clear timeline, and the right team, you can transform your space into a beautiful and functional kitchen that will last for years to come. n

For expert guidance and a seamless renovation experience, contact Hobson’s Choice today.

Hobson’s Choice, London Road, Bath, BA1 6AJ www.hobsonschoice.co.uk email: info@hobsonschoice.co.uk tel: 01225 433511

CREATING an AUTHOR

Exploring the traumas that Mary Shelley experienced whilst living in Bath

By Fiona Sampson

While we celebrate 250 years of Jane Austen, it’s worth remembering that Bath was the temporary home of another literary giant, Mary Shelley. Fiona Sampson has written a book specially dedicated to the Frankenstein author’s time here in her new book Mary Shelley in Bath, published by Manderley Press. he is also speaking about her findings at the ath oyal iterary and cientific nstitution on arch as part of the Curious Minds Festival.

Strictly speaking, of course, it wasn’t Mary Shelley who arri ed in ath on eptember , but ary Wollstonecraft Godwin. The nineteen-year-old who alighted in the city that Tuesday afternoon wasn’t yet the wife of Percy Bysshe Shelley, the up-and-coming poet and heir to a baronetcy nstead, she was his unmarried partner, and the mother of his third surviving child William.

As she searched for lodgings, Mary was not alone. With her was the nine month-old William, his nursemaid Elise Duvillard and her stepsister, Claire Clairmont, and it was for Claire’s sake they were in Bath. A few months Mary’s junior and also unmarried, Claire was pregnant by Lord Byron; who was refusing to have anything to do with her. Claire’s pregnancy was forcing the stepsisters to retreat from the gossipy centre of things in London.

The writer we celebrate as Mary Shelley, pioneering woman and author of the first science fiction no el, Frankenstein , as well as the first dystopian fiction, The Last Man , li ed from to ut in all her life, the four months she was to spend in Bath would prove among the most important. For now, though, she was simply being a responsible sibling in a family crisis.

“Suicide had now been added to the family quota of social shame”

The accommodation Mary found, at 5 Abbey Churchyard, was in a district busy with the coaching inns so necessary for the resort’s prosperity. The rooms were right in the centre of the social action, and the perfect address for people watching, next door to the famous ump oom, where in alids and holidaying socialites congregated to take the waters, see and be seen. Appropriately enough, they were above ‘Meyler’s irculating ibrary and eading ooms hey also offered a glorious close up of the bbey s est Front, where angels clamber up and down Jacob’s Ladder between heaven and earth: a proverb about aspiration and moral effort that could ser e as a motto for ary s Frankenstein nce she had settled laire elsewhere, at ew ond Street, she set to work on a ghost story. She was writing in response to a challenge. Three months earlier, in Geneva, Byron and his house guests had relieved the unseasonal gloom by discussing what Mary’s Dr Frankenstein would call ‘the causes of life.’ Fresh-minted atheists, they wanted to reframe the hristian idea of a di ine spark t was a fashionable topic. Experimental science, newly popular, was being disseminated by public lectures, including those ary would attend at ath s precursor to its oyal

OPPOSITE: The novelist painted by Richard Rothwell circa 1831-1840; ABOVE: Mary’s lodgings would have looked out over the Abbey; BELOW: The commemorative plaque that now marks what was 5 Abbey Churchyard where Mary lived; INSET: An early edition of her famous novel that was partly written in Bath

ARTS

iterary and cientific nstitution in ueen uare fter the illa house party had read a collection of erman Schauer-roman, or shudder stories, called Phantasmagoriana, yron proposed they each write a ghost story, which sowed the seeds of what would become ary s second book

t bbey hurchyard, she started to de our fiction robably taking ad antage of the lending library downstairs, she read Gulliver’s Travels to Don Quixote, ichardson to ousseau, and alter cott to ady aroline amb s recently published roman clef about yron, Glenarvon he and ercy e en read Paradise Lost, from which she would take the epigraph to Frankenstein e know this was research, not sheer book wormery, because ary would soon decide to enlarge her original ghost story into a more saleable no el length ary didn t forget the science her fiction needed, either, whi ing through umphrey Da y s Introduction to Chemistry at the end of ctober

ary s journal entries were clipped to the point of code on ctober, she recorded simply, etter from Fanny, and, on ctober, n the e ening a ery alarming letter comes from Fanny uch is concealed here hat ctober was the ery e ening ary s other sister, her elder half sister Fanny mlay, killed herself in a wansea hotel he had tra elled alone from ondon to the embarkation port for reland he was following in the footsteps of a pair of maternal aunts who first offered her a Dublin teaching post, then withdrew it because of her younger sister s se ual reputation ur ary had a lot to feel responsible for then and suicide had now been added to the family uota of social shame et ary noted only the worst account miserable day wo letters from apa uy mourning er letters were similarly rehearsed n December she recorded news of the death of arriet helley er lo er s wife had drowned herself in the erpentine lake in yde ark ust twenty one and hea ily pregnant, arriet had, like ary, run away at si teen with ercy despite his reputation hen she was abandoned, her family refused to take her back, lea ing her with no means of support ary wrote up the outcome with her habitual bre ity n ondon, marriage takes place on the th December wo deaths and a wedding, in a life changing tangle ut, back in ath, uphea als kept coming n anuary , laire ga e birth to yron s daughter, e entually to be named llegra on anuary, when illiam turned one, she noted, with a rare burst of feeling ow many changes ha e occurred during this little year may the ensuing one be more peaceful othing is so painful to the human mind as a great and sudden change, as she would write in Frankenstein wo days after illiam s birthday, ary was home in ondon he strange, haunted passage in ath was o er ut she brought back with her the major part of what would become, when it was published anonymously on anuary , the book for which she is most remembered

Extract from The Causes of a Life by Fiona Sampson: from the introduction to Mary Shelley in Bath, £18.99, published by Manderley Press; www.manderleypress.com

“The strange, haunted passage in Bath was over”

TOP: The poet Percy Bysshe Shelley was Mary’s married lover whose wife Harriet later died by drowning herself; MIDDLE: Meyler’s Circulating Library and Reading Rooms was a short stroll from where Mary resided; BOTTOM: Stepsister Claire Clairmont came to Bath with Mary, and pregnant with Lord Byron’s child who was born in 1817

MINT ROOM

It’s movie star magic with a touch of masala at the Bath favourite

By Rachel Ifans

“The tender chicken was marinaded in fenugreek and had a beautiful depth of avour

My other half and I had an absolute treat of an evening at the Mint Room the day after Valentine’s night, the evening when Bath’s more discerning, and let’s be honest, older couples take to the city’s restaurants to celebrate the fact they are no longer romantic enough to put up with love-bird gimmicks. Also the Mint Room holds a special place in my heart with its wonderful home deliveries making those horrid lockdown days a tad more bearable.

We have been invited to try out the new tasting menu entitled a Modern Indian Journey and promises to take diners on a voyage through di erent locations in India and marry traditional foodie inspirations with the contemporary style on which The Mint Room prides itself.

We settled into our white-leather booth. I love the Mint Room’s glittering décor and there’s something so movie star about sliding into a banquette. Things get even more A list when we are given an Incognito cocktail each. It looked a bit like a Guinness in a fancy glass but in fact, the liquid black magic was darker than the famous pint and the mix of spiced rum, cardamon, fresh lime, ginger beer and activated charcoal (who knew?) much lighter and sweeter. “It’s very good for the skin!” beamed our waiter, and we beamed back feeling a warm glow immediately.

Next up, our starter. A Kasoori chicken tikka from the Punjab region in the north, an area synonymous with robust and tasty dishes and a hotspot for BBQ fans. The tender chicken was marinaded in fenugreek and had a beautiful depth of avour. e were surprised by the addition of a carrot chutney but the sizeable chunks of veg were perfect with the rich plum sauce, providing sweetness against the smoky.

DINING DETAILS

The Mint Room, Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EB. Tel: 01225 446656; www.themintroom.co.uk

Then moving south on our journey came Imli Wali Machli. This dish comes from Kerala and is built around salmon and tamarind, a spice which is used widely in the region and is good for the stomach. In Mint Room tradition though, it’s about way more than fish and seasoning. The succulent salmon was perfectly cooked, and it went perfectly with the rich sweet fig compote and green apple chutney.

Open Monday – Saturday 5.30pm –11.00pm, Sunday 5.30pm – 9.30pm

Food served Modern Indian with a touch of the classical

Cover: 75 in the main restaurant dining area

Outdoor space A rooftop bar currently undergoing a revamp Specialities Dhaka beef boti kebab, Khubani paneer tikka, Mangalorean gassi, neel giri monk fish, Malabari ghee roast chicken, and smoked masala lamb ribs

Prices Tasting menu starts at is £55 per head, starters £9 - £14; mains £15

- £25; desserts £7 - £9

Our seven-course menu started in the north of the country with a Banarasi aloo tikki chaat. Chaat is a popular street food in India, and the inspo for this one came from the famous ancient city of Varanasi. The dish was a delicious combination of avours and textures, from the squidge of pea and potato patty to the bite of the chickpea bed and the umami pleasure of the yoghurt and smoky sauce. The dry spice avour of the dish had really woken up our taste buds and we both moved to a crisp white wine from Italy to complement and not drown out the rich avours.

Disability access Yes

In a nutshell Gorgeous Indian cuisine served with a touch of luxe

Sometimes a tasting menu, especially if it involves heat, can mean spice overload, but not so with the Mint Room’s o ering; due to the myriad gently balanced herbs and spices, each course felt fresh and exciting and anticipating the next.

Our main course was a lamb rarrah ghost, a rich Mughlai dish which is served on special occasions. The Welsh lamb was tender and tasty, and came with keema masala sauce, wilted spinach, pickled carrot and rogan jus.

Side dishes included thoran, another Keralan speciality which sees the green veg sauteed with mustard seeds and curry leaf; dal makhani, a Punjab dish where the black lentils are slow-cooked for 12 hours; sa ron and pea pilau rice; and triangular slices of oozy garlic-butter naan.

As we finished o the evening with a blood orange and cardamon chocolate brownie, we marvelled at the Mint Room’s popularity. It’s been a buzz and ablaze with people, parties, chatter and joy all night. “It’s always been something of a destination restaurant,” said our waiter when we asked if this was a load of post-Valentine diners like ourselves. “Most of the people here are from out of town, and come to Bath specifically to eat here.” With menus evolving like the one we enjoyed, it’s not surprising really that the love for the Mint Room is a forever expanding thing.

FOOD & DRINK

HAVE FUN AND SAY CHEESE!

he ath est Food Drink Festi al is returning – arch with talks, tours and tastings, along with a starter of a big helping of cheese aking place at he ath est howground in hepton allet, the festi al will host the th edition of the prestigious ritish rish heese wards on arch ringing together farmers, producers and pur eyors from across the outh est, the Food Drink Festi al will be built around the British & Irish Cheese Awards judging arena isitors will ha e the chance to iew hundreds of cheeses from across the UK and Ireland, and sample some of the pre ious trophy winners hroughout the weekend, the Farmhouse itchen tage is hosting e pert guests, the ath est team Railway will be open, and the Kids Zone will keep little foodies entertained with cooking workshops, plus of course there will be a sea of wonderful food and drink stands showcasing the region s best in real ales, craft beer, cider, jam, gelato, cheese, chocolate, and more For more: www.bathandwest.com

CHEERS!

The Roman Baths & Pump Room will continue their successful partnership with caterers Searcys, who has been awarded a new fi e year contract following a competiti e tender process led by Bath & North East Somerset Council.

aul ackson, managing director at earcys, says, e are incredibly proud to ha e been reappointed as the preferred caterer for the historic ump oom, which reflects the dedication and hard work of our team t s also a pri ilege to ha e team members with us for o er years, contributing to a total of years of combined ser ice across our ath employees ur food and be erage manager Dean atthews is the longest ser ing employee at Bath and in fact across the whole of Searcys. e look forward to a bustling summer season at he ump oom, along with e citing inno ations planned for to commemorate ane usten s th birthday and beyond For more: www.searcys.co.uk

The big cheeses are gathering for the British & Irish Cheese Awards on 21 March

Take it to the Kids’ Zone

The art of chutney choosing at The Bath & West Food & Drink Festival; INSET: All board!

Searcy’s celebrates its continued partnership with Bath’s Pump Rooms

DINING EXPERIENCE

ath D is launching the first e er ath estaurant eek, with sponsorship from talian beer, ngelo oretti and with ospitality ction as its chosen charity partner ath estaurant eek, which was de eloped by le eters, director at ath i a o and reen ark rasserie, will run from – ay and is a brand new nine day e ent designed to celebrate the incredible array of restaurants, caf s and bars in the city nd to highlight the upcoming e ent there is a waiters race happening on pril outside the oyal rescent ore details will be confirmed nearer the time but it is e pected many enues will use the opportunity to showcase their offerings with tasting menus, new dishes, signature cocktails, lunchtime opening hours, and special offers ark ewis, chief e ecuti e at ospitality ction, says, ath estaurant eek is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the city s culinary scene, and we re honoured to be the chosen charity for its ery first edition his e citing e ent will not only celebrate ath s incredible culinary talent but will also help raise ital funds ospitality ction he waiters race promises to be a thrilling highlight, and we can t wait to see who wins For more: www.bathrestaurantweek.com

FANTASTIC START

n a remarkable achie ement for omerset s dining scene, riar at umber ne ruton, led by am omas, has been awarded a ichelin ib ourmand – just four months after opening he Michelin Guide says of riar, t s the kind of place that warms your heart, run with a genuine friendliness and enthusiasm that s mirrored by the bright, fresh cooking that can t help but put a smile on your face his recognition follows an already impressi e run for riar, with the restaurant shortlisted for both hef to atch and ew estaurant of the ear in Good Food Guide wards in February and the restaurant has also been included in uaremeal s op am says, t riar, we focus on letting incredible ingredients speak for themsel es, working closely with local farms and suppliers to create dishes that feel both comforting and e citing e re o er the moon to ha e been awarded a ib ourmand in this year s Michelin Guide announcement ib ourmand represents good uality, good alue cooking, and it s a joy to ha e met those criteria in such a short time For more: www.numberonebruton.com

Briar at Number One Bruton has been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand; INSET: Head chef Sam Lomas

Green Park Brasserie’s director Alex Peters developed Bath Restaurant Week with Bath BID

Bath Pizza Co will be part of the brand new nine day event

INN BRISTOL AIRPORT

Holiday Inn Bristol Airport has officially reopened following a complete & extensive refurbishment, offering a contemporary hotel experience just minutes from Bristol Airport and North Somerset.

4-star hotel boasts 80 guest rooms, including 24 Premium rooms, 4 accessible rooms with roll-in showers and 18 connecting rooms.

 Airport Shuttle*

 Business Media Lounge 24/7

EXPERIENCE A FANTASTIC FOODIE FUSION

BARDACIOUS is Bath’s newest culinary gem which blends Mexican and Californian flavours

Bardacious, a new independent restaurant in Bath, is making waves with its fusion fare and fun, approachable vibe. Positioning itself as offering dishes frequently found among California’s coastal communities, Bardacious seamlessly blends fresh, flavour-packed dishes, premium cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere. The mix of Mexicaninspired cuisine along with a complement of American classics is quickly becoming a local favourite. With three founders – Steve, Dasha, and Adam – Bardacious brings a family-run touch to the city’s dining scene, aiming to offer a vibrant, premium casual dining experience for all.

The inspiration behind Bardacious’s menu is personal. Steve, a serial entrepreneur from the USA with a background in private equity, grew up with a deep connection to Mexican food via his family. “My mother’s family once owned the country’s largest silver mines prior to the Mexican Revolution”, says Steve. “With an American father and a from-scratch cook Mexican mother, Bardacious is rooted in my upbringing and the amazingly fresh dishes I learned to love living in Newport Beach, California in my twenties.”

With a menu featuring Mexican staples, like tacos and churros, alongside Californianinspired salads and grilled dishes – not to mention their already legendary burgers – and using locally sourced ingredients, Bardacious

ensures freshness is at the core of every dish. “We make as much as possible from scratch to maintain flavour and integrity,” explains Adam, the operational leader. “The costs of modern hospitality mean that sadly few UK restaurants cook dishes fully on site using truly fresh ingredients. Here at Bardacious, freshness, sustainability and championing local suppliers is at the core of our ethos.”

The cocktails at Bardacious are equally exceptional, featuring a signature range made with Uxmal Tequila – a unique small-batch Tequila brand distilled in Mexico especially for Bardacious. A central bar provides a social space where guests can enjoy craft cocktails or sample a unique tequila flight, learning about the spirit’s rich history while enjoying Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo options.

The restaurant’s design takes inspiration from the laid-back California beach vibe, creating a relaxed environment. “Our goal is to create an experience, not just a meal,” explains Dasha, co-owner and the design force behind much of the menu and decor. “As well as delivering exceptional food and drinks, it’s important for us to ensure all our guests receive a warm welcome and attentive, American style service from our friendly team. Whether its families (kids eat free), pet owners, business lunches or a night out with friends, Bardacious is a place for everyone.”

Weekends are especially lively with DJ-spun music and large groups celebrating life milestones.

With plans to expand to other cities and abroad, Bardacious is focused on organic growth that preserves its standards. “We’re focused on perfecting the offering in Bath for Bath” says Adam. “Only then will we look to open further restaurants. Maintaining quality, authenticity and a high level of service is the key to local and long-term success.” n

“ THE MIX OF MEXICANINSPIRED CUISINE ALONG WITH A COMPLEMENT OF AMERICAN CLASSICS IS QUICKLY BECOMING A LOCAL FAVOURITE”

Founders Steve, Dasha and Adam welcome you to Bardacious

LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

ALL ABOUT THE VASE

Forget flowers – they ll be wilting and shedding before you can say appy other s Day on arch o think beautiful receptacle instead e lo e these aged inc ennu ases, each one hand finished to ensure indi iduality and create that rustic look hey are also from the fair traders kuku, who work with artisans throughout the world focussing on helping promote handmade techni ues and traditional skills

Aged zinc Bennu vases, prices start at £40, available from Homefront Interiors, 10 Margaret’s Building, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

SLIP DECORATED STONEWARE

BY LOUISE MCNIFF, £200

ouise c iff creates prints and produces hand built ceramics in her studio, situated on the edge of the Derbyshire eak District sing techni ues which draw on her background as a printmaker, ouise etches sgra to lines into the leather hard clay with handmade tools

From Gallery Nine, 9b Margaret Buildings Bath; www.galleryninebath.com

DD FLOWERS

A statement vase is the perfect way to say lo e you this other s Day

BLUE TIERED GLASS

VASE, £55

n an opulent cornflower blue, each large glass ase is hand crafted and entirely uni ue Featuring ribbed detailing and a spotted base to add unusual te ture to any space.

From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

TWO TONE TEXTURED VASE,

£60

all and elegant in stature, this bottle shaped vase is crafted from ceramic for a rustic and rela ed finish ntricate te tural detailing surrounds the ase and pairs with a two-tone neutral scheme that delicately blends from a darker beige to a bright white, making it ideal for a neutral and pared back interior.

From Cox & Cox; www.coxandcox.co.uk

CELADON AND RED GLOBE VASE BY CHRIS KEENAN, £275

The artist spent six weeks as artist-in-residence at the Mashiko useum of eramic rt in apan working with local clays and gla es, and was in ited to fire work in the salt gla e and noborigama kilns of omoo Hamada.

From Beaux Arts Bath, 12-13 York Street, Bath; www.beauxartsbath.co.uk

PACAYA DECORATIVE VASE,

£295

With its wide brim and two-tone green and red design, this ase looks almost olcanic ence the name: Pacaya is a uatemalan olcano which is thought to ha e erupted o er , years ago t s handmade and hand-painted with a reactive gla e, which means that the colouring of each piece will be slightly different From OKA, 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath; www.oka.com

RADER PORCELAIN POETRY SMALL VASE, £15.30

Pure, elegant and poetic at the same time. This handmade vase made of debossed and partially glazed porcelain is a beautiful and timeless gift. rom a ri a i ts d he sea oad ath www a ri agi ts o

LAVINGTON VASE, £95

The round Lavington vase is crafted from hardwearing stoneware by skilled artisans in Portugal and moulded into a striking wavy ripple design. The reactive glaze is hand-applied, creating touches of fla blue, neutrals, and browns that develop during the kiln-drying process. This vase looks just as beautiful standing on its own as it does holding a small posy of flowers rom e t ne ne Tram ard a ot treet ath www ne t ne om

MOOOI DELFT BLUE MODEL 3, £490

FELIX AMATA VASE BY AMATA BENEDICT, £990

Glazed ceramic Amata Benedict are an artistic partnership working collaboratively in sculpture, ceramics, textiles and furniture. A practice based on the prolific principles of an talian renaissance ‘bottega’ workshop – from appliqué to ceramics, sculptures in bronze, steel and wood. rom o and treet ro treet ath www ho andstreet om

The Delft Model 3 by Moooi is more than just a vase; it's a timeless work of art that beckons us to embrace history, craftsmanship, and the enduring beauty of Delft Blue ceramics. rom o owa s o d ow i som treet ath www ho owa sofl d ow om

SMALL CONCRETE PLANTER, £20

This rustic concrete-look planter is the perfect way to bring life to plants, a contemporary contrast to the traditional ceramic and porcelain planters. From The Cotswold Company Bath, 12 Northgate Street, ath www otswo d o om

FASHION

ALL CONQUERING

Winning accessories for that Bath Life Awards red carpet moment

Just like that, swathes of crocuses push their way through the sodden hard ground of Royal Victoria Park, carpeting the sparse and weary grass, heralding the arrival of rejuvenating newness with a joyous, if temporal, glamour and giddiness. The red carpet season is itself a giddy and glamorous human demarcation between old and new. Celebrating the successes of the year before, honouring the immortals of creati ity, music and film, who dress extravagantly and frivolously, a prophecy of the fashion for the year ahead.

There aren’t many opportunities to indulge ourselves in these dressing up rituals, just some deeply ingrained almost religious need in our consciousness, to participate. Our fascination with celebrity has replaced our interest in

By Marianne Cantelo

the whims of the old gods and so we seek to emulate them with our own awards ceremonies, including the upcoming Bath Life Awards, sacrificing our thoughts on the altar of dresses and accessories as we revere our peers for their more earthly efforts in business.

And why not embrace a paganlike enchantment with nature and take full inspiration from the crocuses while accessorising your celebratory night new gown or tuxedo? A structured evening box bag with a rich shiny patina mimics the petals of the first bulbs, or if you prefer subtle te ture to shiny snappiness, pouch bags in velvet, faux fur or damask reference fuzzy catkins and the soft

inner cases of leaves.

“Adorn your hair with a headband scattered with snowdrop-like pearls”

SHOPPING LIST

Take a newly sprouted leaf out of Princess Diana, Anne Hathaway or Scarlett Johannson’s book and adorn your hair with a headband scattered with snowdrop-like pearls or a frosty diamond tiara. Juxtaposed against an elegantly simple sheath, or 1950s Dior style dress in black, the bewitching contrast of the lengthening, almost too bright days, with still inky cold nights. If you suit warmer tones, consider an artificial laurel wreath with bronzed or golden leaves, like the sun rising on the hedgerows.

This season designers imbue a romantic fairytale spirit with shoes like glass slippers, or melting ice. The foot is worshipped for its own beauty, as close to bare as can be, daringly e posed to the elements – a fitting foil for a more opulent, voluminous dress, an elegant alternative to actual red carpet nudity.

1. Elara demi halo headdress by Vivi Embellish, £455, from Perfect Day Bridal Shop, 45 Walcot Street, Bath; www.perfectdaybridal.net

2. The Fiona shoulder bag – metallic heart edition, £80, from Anthropologie, 1 – 4 New Bond Street, Bath; www.anthropologie.com

3. Keloca leather sandals by Chie Mihara, were £310, now £217, from Grace & Mabel, 3 George Street, Bath; www.graceandmabel.co.uk

In contrast with these airy ethereal shoes, are sandals and heels that seem to have burst from the ground itself – creeper-like laces encircling and climbing up the legs, grounding frothier dresses and transparent silks, voiles and tulle. These ornaments are hardly warming in our still fresh climate, so consider embracing the trend for richly coloured hosiery and dare to not be bare, with your evening wear. Choose a sophisticated, monochromatic approach with legs almost merging into your skirts, reminiscent of stems and shooting leaves, ake like a bird and fly, sporting feathers in which to nestle, or swoop about while dancing at the afterparty. Dramatic clutches with sprouting plumes are perfect for peacocking and sharp stilettos softened with downy edging around the toe or ankle, a good choice for more bashful hens who are almost too demure to be true.

But also consider, how will you make your entrance on the red carpet, with the likelihood of intemperate weather? Invest in a Traitors’ style evening cloak with a high impact lining, your dress bursting out like a daffodil trumpet, skirts and cape nodding and swaying gracefully amongst the inevitable raindrops, as they add temporary jewels to your attire.

Photography: Egle Vasi; www.eglevasi.com

Model: Instagram @Isobellachick

Clothes: Preloved sourced from Dorothy House charity shops; www.dorothyhouse.org.uk

Styling: Eleanor Tasker and Marianne Cantelo Make Up: Louise Meade

SCHOOL GUIDE VICTORIA BOND

Absolute beginners

What does being schoolready really mean?

Arecent report by an early years charity found that pupils in reception class are losing, on average, a third of their learning time each day due to teachers needing to support children who are not school ready ne in four school starters this academic year were not toilet trained.

So what does school-readiness really mean? Some parents take the term literally, thinking of it as a sort of shopping list for what a child needs to attend school (i.e. shiny shoes, lunch bo or e en what they need to know in terms of basic letters or numbers. However, being schoolready refers to the set of skills, behaviours and attitudes that help a child successfully transition into school life and set them up

to learn. These include physical (holding a pen or sitting still), social following basic rules and routines , emotional e pressing preferences and co operating , cogniti e being able to focus on a task for a short period and independent self care eating and going to the toilet by themselves).

t s a list that isn t really a list, and it s important not to worry if there is a de elopment bo or two that isn t ticked by the time you are packing the bookbag for them and tissues for you on the first day of term eachers recognise that being school-ready is a ery broad band taff are professionally trained to recognise and support each child from their different starting points, says mma ewry a former primary school headteacher who now runs an education consultancy

SCHOOL STARTING AGE UK V EUROPE

Our children start school in the September after they turn four and are among the youngest in Europe to enter formal education and be expected to sit still and learn. Countries including Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Norway and Finland (often cited as an exemplar in modern teaching), hold off formal education until the age of six. Some children don’t even fully develop 20/20 vision until they are five so we are expecting A LOT of our littlest human beings.

specialising in early years n fact, the uni ueness of the children is often the fa ourite part of the job f you ha e any concerns, share these with the class teacher who will then support your child to do well and learn at their own pace.” Once they enter the classroom, school starters also get the opportunity to learn from some of the best teachers on the planet – their peers. Nothing like a little healthy copying to kickstart their school-ready skills.

one fine motor skills with Play-Doh and crayons”

Reception pupils are also measured for some elements of school readiness during informal, one-to-one classroom-based checks in the first si weeks of school. These were introduced in eptember and focus on early maths, communication, language and literacy skills. There is no pass or fail and these are absolutely not, as one Mumsnet forum branded the eception Baseline Assessments recently, intelligent tests for four year olds.” The data is used as a starting point to measure progress by the end of ear s such, it s more of a test for the school than for the child and no family needs to worry about how their child will perform o, what should you focus on if your child is due to start

school this year? Preparing our children through active play and relishing the final free range months is vital. Think about ways to develop their ability to task risks, ask questions, take turns and vocalise choices. Talk, sing, dance, jump, and point at things and say, ook at that brown doggy for no other reason than you are communicating and sharing knowledge. Hone fine motor skills with Play-Doh and crayons; boost gross motor skills with a trip to a local climbing frame

Do relish reading together but don t forget spending small amounts of time apart to prepare them for being separated from you fi e days a week is educational too. Oh, and make elcro your best friend in terms of shoe straps and buttonless tops that will quickly increase their sense of independence and – no – will not mean they head off to university wearing daps. Slow everything down and you will see school readiness is full to the brim of magic

Victoria Bond is the founder and CEO of School Guide, an easy-to-use website that helps parents explore the best schools in the area, including catchment maps and parent reviews. For more: www.schoolguide.co.uk

Mum! I’m school ready!

MEET THE TEACHER

It’s a world of rewarding experiences and igniting imaginations for our local educationalists

SINEAD DUIGNAN

ROYAL HIGH SCHOOL BATH, GDST

An independent day and boarding school for girls aged 3-18 in Bath. We are part of the Girls’ Days School Trust network of 26 schools across the UK. 01225 313877; www.royalhighbath.gdst.net

Why is teaching science in an all-girls school important, and how does it help empower students to challenge stereotypes and pursue careers in STEM?

Although there is no significant difference in ability between boys and girls in mathematics

and science, women remain underrepresented among STEM graduates worldwide. At Royal High School Bath, we challenge our students to step out of their comfort zones and encourage them to be brave and take risks. For example, students regularly participate in local, national, and GDST-wide competitions, gaining invaluable experience and exposure.

I have first-hand experience teaching in both co-educational and girls-only schools, and I have seen how girls in an all-girls environment are more likely to put themselves forward, ask questions when unsure, and challenge their thinking to deepen their knowledge. These skills are invaluable in STEM, where confidence, curiosity, and resilience are key to success. By fostering a supportive and empowering learning environment, we help our students develop the skills and mindset needed to thrive in STEM careers and beyond.

What are some of the exciting things coming up at your school?

Beyond these key events, Science Week offers many other interactive activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire future scientists. It’s a week filled with learning, discovery, and excitement for all!

What advice would you give your ten year-old self?

Don’t be afraid to be yourself. Try new things –you don’t need to be good at something to give it a go! Every experience, whether successful or not, helps you grow and discover what you enjoy. Be confident in your abilities and believe in what you can achieve. Most importantly, seek out opportunities that will benefit you in the future – whether it’s learning a new skill, making new friends, or stepping outside your comfort zone. You never know where those experiences might lead!

Science Week is a significant event at Royal High School Bath – it is packed with engaging and inspiring activities for students and provides an incredible opportunity for them to explore various aspects of science through hands-on experiences. Highlights include the GDST essay writing competition, where students showcase their scientific knowledge and creativity, and the Royal High Bath Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, which encourages students to capture stunning images of nature and wildlife. Students put their knowledge to the test in the House Science Quiz, a fun and competitive event that challenges their understanding of scientific concepts. One of the most thrilling highlights is the liquid nitrogen demonstration, which reveals the fascinating effects of extreme cold on various materials.

ALEX SMITH DEPUTY HEAD (ACADEMIC),

KING EDWARD’S SENIOR SCHOOL, BATH 01225 464313; www.kesbath.com

Describe your typical day I get to come into work with my own young children, talking about their upcoming day, whether it is a trip to The Roman Baths in the junior school or the Paddington themed storytelling in the pre-prep. The pupils here are so engaged and I always enjoy the classes I have (I hope they read this and know it is true!) along with spending time with dedicated heads of department on strategy regarding our curriculum, digital learning, pastoral care and more.

What extra-curricular activities are you involved in?

Having been lucky enough to play a decent level of racket sports, I enjoy coaching badminton at lunchtime or jogging around Bath with the running club. There is so much on here at KES that I have often liked simply poking my head into some music, drama or e-sports, and everything in between.

What do you find most satisfying about the job?

To work in a school where pupils will come out of lessons eager to converse more about the subject is a real joy. I gave an assembly on Terry Pratchett and had whole swathes of people come to speak to me about their own love of reading. Life is about finding your tribe and I feel I have found it in KES.

MR ALEX HOPKINS

HEAD OF PREP SCHOOL –ST MARGARET’S PREP, CALNE 01249 857220; www.stmargaretsprep.org.uk

Describe your typical day:

My day is a whirlwind of energy, enthusiasm, and endless curiosity! It all kicks off at the school entrance, where I greet smiling (sometimes sleepy!) faces and chat with parents. Morning assembly is my chance to set the tone for the day – sharing stories, celebrating achievements, and maybe even cracking a joke or two. Once the lessons begin I’m on the move – popping into classrooms, chatting with teachers, and catching glimpses of exciting lessons. No two days are the same; one moment, I’m discussing phonics with the littlest learners or engaging in messy play with the children in nursery, and the next, I’m deep in a debate with Year 6 about history or science (in between lots of meetings!). Lunchtime is a special time to sit with the children and discuss a variety of topics over a delicious lunch in our dining hall. Afternoons are filled with more meetings, planning school events, and dreaming up new ways to make learning even more exciting. As the end of the day beckons, I wave students off, knowing tomorrow brings another adventure.

SAMI KNIGHT EARLY YEARS CO-ORDINATOR AND RECEPTION TEACHER

KING EDWARD’S PRE-PREP AND NURSERY 01225 421681; www.kesbath.com

What is it like working in the reception class at King Edward’s pre-prep?

What is your schools ethos?

I am so lucky to be working as a part of a team of dedicated and creative early years practitioners. Reception is an amazing place to work and share the joy of learning with all our children. The whole team exudes a passion for providing the best learning environment and experiences both indoors and out. It is our daily mission, from the moment the children skip into class until the moment they leave at the end of the day, to nurture their development and to provide an irresistible learning experience. Our children thrive and grow in confidence and independence with the many opportunities to explore. Each day is an adventure. No one day is the same, but every day is full of giggles and excitement. Before we know it, the day has gone by in a flash, but we never worry. Tomorrow is always a new adventure!

Describe your teaching style…

I would describe myself as a devoted and creative early years teacher, with a passion for robust curriculum development and enrichment. I advocate the importance of children getting outside and taking advantage of everything we have to offer in nature and at school. If there is a puddle, jump in it, add paint to it, scoop up and explore what’s in the puddle.

Our ethos centres on providing a holistic and balanced education, deeply rooted in strong values. We aim to ‘Inspire Excellence’ by nurturing each child’s unique potential through four key pillars: Igniting Interests, Nurturing Individuality, Fostering Exploration, and Realising Potential. We believe education is about more than academic achievement; it’s about fostering respect, understanding, and self-awareness. Our supportive and engaging environment encourages pupils to grow in independence, self-esteem, and confidence, equipping them with essential ‘soft skills’ for life. By embracing our shared school values, we create an atmosphere where children feel secure to take risks, understand that making mistakes is part of learning, and are inspired to achieve their very best. This approach ensures that our pupils leave St Margaret’s as confident, independent, and thoughtful young people, well-prepared to face future challenges.

What is in place to help with students mental health at your school?

We place a strong emphasis on supporting students’ mental health and well-being. Our pastoral care is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that every child feels safe, valued,

and supported. We have a dedicated pastoral team, including class teachers and teaching assistants, who provide daily emotional support and guidance. Our small class sizes allow us to know each child individually, making it easier to identify when they may need extra support. A key part of our pastoral care is our ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant), who works with children needing extra emotional support. Through tailored sessions, our ELSA helps pupils develop resilience, self-confidence, and coping strategies for managing emotions, friendships, and challenges they may face. Mindfulness and well-being activities are embedded into the curriculum, and we encourage open conversations about mental health through PSHE lessons, assemblies, and workshops. By fostering a nurturing environment, we equip our students with resilience, confidence, and strategies to manage their mental wellbeing both in school and beyond.

Alex Smith

Sami Knight

HENRY PIKE

CRESCENT TUITION

01225 457050; www.crescenttuition.co.uk

What are the qualities of a good teacher?

A good teacher at Crescent Tuition is knowledgeable, adaptable, and very passionate about their subject. They’re all subject specialists who ensure students get the most from one-to-one work, tailoring their tuition to each individual student’s needs and ambitions.

What do you like about teaching in Bath?

Bath is a melting pot of students from around the world, so I am lucky to work with a variety of students, both local and international. It is probably the most beautiful city in the world and is a fantastic hub for education -–I feel very fortunate to live and work here.

How is technology changing tuition?

We integrate technology into many of our tutoring services, including using AI as a supportive tool for student learning, whilst always ensuring that personal connection comes first in all our work.

MRS KAREN RANDALL DIRECTOR OF PERFORMING

ARTS, DOWNSIDE SCHOOL

01761 235100; www.downside.co.uk

What do you enjoy most about teaching music?  I love the buzz of a classroom of pupils fully engaged in practical music making who are happy and confident to take risks and be creative! I also really enjoy getting into the analysis of set works with my GCSE and A level pupils. It is really rewarding to open their eyes to a world of music beyond their own Spotify playlists and performance experience!

What are a few of the teaching moments you are most proud of?

There are so many... the lightbulb moments when you see a pupil suddenly get something or the pride in seeing a pupil perform in front of their peers for the first time having been too nervous to before. Or seeing sixth form pupils be inspired to choose to study music in higher education. But music teaching is more than what goes on in the classroom; compering my first house singing competition at Downside this year with a theatre full of pupils supporting each other and the hard work and efforts of all involved was amazing, but also being the musical director of a school production of Les Misérables and the power of a chorus of over 80 pupils singing One Day More, would be a highlight. Memorable and magical!

What exciting things are coming up at the school?

Our production of Oliver! takes place from the 20-22 March. Pupils have been working on this wonderful show since September, and we are very excited about how it is all coming together. We have collaborated with pupils from St Vigor and St John School in Chilcompton, who are playing the roles of the workhouse children and the younger members of Fagin’s Gang. It has been fantastic to see how our Downside pupils have taken to working alongside these younger pupils.

MR ANDREW GORDON-BROWN

HEADMASTER AND PRINCIPAL OF THE FOUNDATION, KINGSWOOD SCHOOL 01225 734460; www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk

How has the school changed since you were appointed head?

Now in my fifth year as headmaster, it has been exciting to see Kingswood grow across all areas -– nursery, prep, and senior – following significant capital investment to expand our capacity. While the school has grown and we continue to seek improvements for our pupils, our core belief in the power of holistic education remains unchanged, positively impacting the lives of our young people.

What advice would you give your 10 year-old self? I would advise my younger self not to worry about what others think or compare myself to others. Instead, follow my passions and have the courage to stand by my beliefs. I loved music, singing, and drama but was too ‘cool’ to embrace them. Now I see that it was actually uncool not to pursue what I loved. And of course, I’d tell myself to buy shares in Apple!

What do you find most satisfying about the job?

Leading a school and being surrounded by bright, compassionate, enthusiastic young people is immensely satisfying. I never stop learning from their diverse activities. A real highlight is seeing school leavers on A-level results day, marching toward their first-choice destinations, ready to change the world. A tongue-in-cheek answer would be ‘school lunch’ – our chefs make sure we’re spoiled with delicious food every day, proving that a school marches on its stomach!

ANNE WAKEFIELD

ST MARY’S CALNE

01249 857200; www.stmaryscalne.org

What is your school ethos?

St Mary’s Calne is an exceptional boarding and day school where our motto, Calne Girls Can and Calne Girls Do, is so true. With excellent boarding, an outstanding co-curricular programme, and inspiring teachers, courage, compassion, and kindness are at the heart of our warm community.

Our pupils are ambitious for themselves and each other achieving outstanding GCSE and A-Level results (second in South West in 2025 Sunday Times Parent Power), opening doors to top universities in the UK and abroad, as well as exciting careers ahead. And it’s not just me saying this, in a recent independent survey of parents, 99 per cent said their daughter is happy at Calne, and 94 per cent said the quality of teaching is good or very good.

While around 80 per cent of our girls board, the school is also a popular choice for local families seeking an outstanding day school where their daughters will fully engage in the vibrant life of a full boarding school programme.

There are incredible opportunities for our pupils in sport, music, art, and drama, all supported by outstanding facilities – a sports complex with a gym, swimming pool and dance studio, full-size astro pitch, professional theatre, Sixth Form Centre, and an award-winning library with stunning views of the apple orchard. Visit and experience for yourself what makes St Mary’s so special. A warm welcome awaits you!

Henry Pike

Mr Andrew Gordon-Brown

Mrs Karen Randall

Anne Wakefield

CLAIRE CHAMPION

INNOVATE LEAD, MONKTON COMBE SCHOOL

01225 721100; www.monktoncombeschool.com

How has teaching changed since you joined Monkton?

Over my seven years at Monkton, we’ve transitioned from the international primary curriculum to Innovate. – a bespoke curriculum that encourages creativity, independence, and deeper thinking. My background in early years made me realise that while we encourage creativity in young children and at university, there’s often a gap in between where learning becomes too prescribed. At Monkton Prep, Innovate now brings learning to life – blending history, geography, and science with hands-on experiences in social anthropology, architecture, and engineering.

How does Monkton differ from other schools?

At Monkton, every child is truly known. We don’t just teach, we inspire. The Innovate Curriculum encourages pupils to be ambitious in their own way, to explore their interests, and to think critically. It’s a place where individuality is nurtured, and that makes all the difference.

What do you most enjoy about teaching?

For me, the most rewarding part of teaching is seeing children grow and change. Being part of their journey— watching them make mistakes, improve, and take pride in their successes is a privilege. I love those moments when pupils surprise me by thinking independently and taking control of their own learning. It shows they feel confident to be themselves, and that’s what truly matters. A classroom full of children who want to be there, who are excited by lessons and eager to innovate, is a joy to be part of.

MISS ISOBEL COOMBE

ST MARK’S SCHOOL, BATH

01225 312661; www.st-marks.org.uk

What do you like the most about teaching in Bath? I have to say how rich it is in history and culture. It is just bursting with stories from the past. From beautiful Georgian architecture like The Circus, to the tales of the people who lived here, I could not wish for a better city to work in as a history teacher. It is so enriching to be able to use this city as a microcosm of different periods of British history. Students gain so much from this too as they recognise landmarks, and as someone who didn’t grow up here, they even teach me about them as well. We are also really lucky to work in collaboration with the MNSP Trust schools in Bath (Hayesfield and Beechen Cliff) to ensure that the curriculum we deliver is rich and exciting.

What advice would you share with a newly qualified teacher?

As someone who is fairly new to teaching, I have acquired brilliant advice from colleagues and friends alike. One of the best tips I have received is to have fun with your teaching and to experiment with new ideas and activities in your classroom. Even if it doesn’t go how you expected, you will be able to reflect on it and become a more successful practitioner. Your colleagues are your rock in this profession, so lean on them for help and advice too, and observe as much as you possibly can.

ADAM IZZARD

HEAD OF BOARDING AND RUGBY, STONAR SCHOOL

01225 701740; www.stonarschool.com

What exciting things are coming up at the school?

We are striving to become a destination for aspiring rugby players, offering top-level coaching and a supportive high-performance environment, alongside a strong academic education. We have recently launched our brand new ‘Rugby Excellence Programme’ – kicking off with a training session from Bath’s very own Tom Dunn – and it is rapidly establishing a strong rugby culture at the school.

What is your schools ethos?

We believe our pupils should truly enjoy their school experience, which is especially important for our boarders. We want them to achieve great things, but recognise that achievement shouldn’t come at the expense of their well-being. Instead, we want our pupils to achieve with joy.

Describe your teaching style

My teaching style is built around fostering a growth mindset, encouraging resilience, confidence, and a genuine love for learning. I emphasise the importance of embracing challenges and seeing mistakes as valuable learning opportunities, understanding that abilities are developed through effort and persistence. As head of boarding, my priority is to create a safe, supportive, and enriching community where each pupil feels valued and empowered.

KATY WHYTE HEAD OF GIRLS’ GAMES, THE PARAGON SCHOOL, BATH 01225 310837; www.paragonschool.co.uk

Where did you begin your career?

I started my career in 2011 while training as a full-time pentathlete at the University of Bath. The Paragon School needed extra support in the sports department, so I joined for one afternoon a week. It was a fantastic experience, and when I retired in 2012, the school supported me through my PGCE. A year later, I became head of girls’ games and haven’t looked back. I love the school and am proud to have been here for 12 years.

What do you find most satisfying about the job?

Seeing each child progress in sports is incredibly rewarding. I teach students from pre-school through to Year 6, helping them develop skills in a variety of sports. It’s amazing to recall their first attempts at a skill and then see them perform with confidence today.

Describe your typical day

Every day is different, which I love. I might be in the pool with reception blowing bubbles, in the hall demonstrating a shoulder roll in a Year 3 parkour lesson, or teaching our oldest Year 6 children how to use a reverse sweep on the hockey astro.

Are there any upcoming open events at your school?

Yes, the Paragon will be holding its Spring Open Morning on Friday 21 March.

Claire Champion

Adam Izzard

Miss Isobel Coombe

Katy Whyte

…AND WE’RE BACK!

The Bath Life Awards 20th anniversary is almost upon us. Prepare to celebrate…

AWARDS

When: The Bath Life Awards 2025 take place on Thursday 27 March.

Where: The Bath Forum, with the afterparty at Sub 13.

Categories: There are 23 Award categories ready to be won.

Tickets: Last ones available on our website now, our fastest-selling Awards with huge demand.

Over the past 20 years, the Bath Life Awards have become a cherished institution, shining a spotlight on the brilliance, innovation, and dedication of those who make Bath such a remarkable

place to live, work, and visit. This evening is not only a celebration of the past but also a look ahead to the future — one that promises continued growth, creativity, and success for the city we hold dear.

The judging process is laborious as always; with each nomination examined, analysed, and discussed until we are left with simply the best.

And a new set of impartial judges chosen afresh each year determines who the worthy winners are, selected by the Bath Life team from a variety of local industries; you can read more about them on the page over from

this one. On page 87, you will also discover all about this year s ama ing finalists

We are delighted to share this moment with you, as we come together to honour those who have shaped the fabric of Bath’s exceptional business and cultural scene. Let’s raise our glasses to 20 years of achievement, when everyone is dressed up and ready to party in the Bath Forum.

CJ Prop Hire has provided the classic Hollywoodstyle Bath Life illuminated lettering for all those Insta-or-it-didn’t-happen moments. We’ll also be enjoying dinner, which is served at tables exquisitely decorated with centrepieces from The Forum. The bold and brilliant Bath Stonemasons create the Awards themselves, while Chew Valley Distillery are providing drinks for deser ing winners fter we re finished For the o cial wards afterparty, we go to ub f you can’t make it then you will miss you, and make sure you check out our social media platforms to be a part of the night and share the BLA love. See you on 27 March! For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

Hello! I’m Hem Patel, owner of Bespoke Getaways

I have lived and worked in SE Asia for 20 years, and travelled extensively to discover amazing places, and hidden gems which only locals know. Since returning to Bath, I have launched Bespoke Getaways to offer a highly personalised, luxury travel company.

Using my expert and intimate knowledge of the region, I work with you to craft your own trip of a lifetime, creating an itinerary that is perfectly tailored to you,

My trips will provide a wonderfully, deeper and immersive experience of the places you visit.

From planning your trip to accompanying you as your personal tour guide, I’ll be with you every step of the way, ensuring a stress-free and hasslefree experience from beginning to end.

My customers love the trips and personal service I provide. Check out their testimonials on my website.

For further details visit: www.bespokegetaways.co.uk

07541 513570 | admin@bespokegetaways.co.uk

THAILAND

THE JUDGES WILL DECIDE…

Every year, there’s a fresh panel of impeccably impartial and independent judges for the Bath Life Awards. It’s a diverse and knowledgeable group from a wide variety of sectors and sizes of business. They, and they alone, decide who the winners will be…

DEBBIE BOULTON, Managing director at Richardson Swift

Debbie has over 25 years’ experience, mostly in the Bath market, and is valued for her straightforward approach, and loves to work with growing, aspirational businesses – particularly, on strategic planning and providing FD services to businesses. Debbie became MD of Richardson Swift in January 2022.

MICHELLE POW, Business Development Manager at University of Bath School of Management

Michelle develops partnerships with organisations across employability, projects, research, and executive education. Her notable achievements include founding “Business @ Breakfast,” a popular business network offering workshops and micro-training in business.

JADE PARFITT, Founder of Bath Fashion Festival

Jade started out as a model aged just 15 and went on to work for some of the biggest names in the business such as Versace and Mulberry. She went on to become the lead presenter for Vogue online covering major events including The Met Ball. She recently launched the hugely successful Bath Fashion Festival.

ROBERT CAMPBELL, Head of Culture and Heritage at Bath and North East Somerset Council

Robert is an empathetic leader delivering exceptional outcomes in fast-based, budget sensitive environments across museums, historic properties, landscapes and World Heritage Sites. His current role oversees the operation of the world-famous Roman Baths and the development of a new Fashion Museum in the city.

MARIANNE CARTWRIGHT-HIGNETT, Owner of Iford Manor

During the past 55 years the Cartwright-Hignett family, have lovingly restored the garden, saving the buildings therein, finishing the Oriental Garden area designed by John Hignett and redesigning areas of the garden as they age, 100 years after Peto’s original plantings.

SAM DANIELS, PARTNER AT KNIGHT FRANK

Sam has over 13 years of experience in the property industry. Having sold over £550 million worth of property in and around the city, he’s a proud Bathonian that specialises in best-in-class residential sales, blending deep local expertise with a global perspective.

ARRON WHAN, General manager of The Bell Inn Arron has been the general manager of The Bell Inn, which is renowned as the UK’s largest community owned pub and music venue, for the past 10+ years. Previously he has been manager at Bullingdon in Oxford as well as Embargo and Allied Domecq in the 90’s and 2000’s, in a hospitality career that spans decades.

MICHAEL MUSGRAVE, General manager of Apex City of Bath Hotel

Michael is a passionate hospitality professional with the guest experience always in mind that is dedicated to working alongside his team, leading from the front, engaging at all levels and ensuring the best from everyone. In September 2024 he was appointed as the new chair of the Bath BID board.

VICTORIA CRANWELL, Partner and head of residential property for Bath and Bradford on Avon at BLB Solicitors

Victoria trained and qualified in London and has considerable experience acting for high-net-worth clients on freehold and leasehold sales and purchases in the capital. Her commercial experience includes acting for private lenders, high street banks, borrowers, and investors.

TOTAL RECALL!

Four perspectives on why the Bath Life Awards has been such a success for 20 glorious years

David Flatman, former Bath and England player, leading rugby broadcaster, Bath Life columnist and at fe ar s ost nsta ra flat an y first few Bath Life wards e periences were as a punter – as opposed to a co host – and my primary recollections are laughing and drinking a lot, and knowing almost e eryone in the room Fab times e been a judge and that was fascinating, and rather more in ol ed than d predicted t was fun but it was formal the process was rigorous and the con ersation lo ely h, and we had unlimited snacks, which enjoyed y best memories in ol e taking the p ss out of uke rady from a ills while on the mic ainly because lo e him and know that he hates it, which makes it all the more sweet h and enjoyed comparing Da id ewton to oris ohnson always say that, with ara indall being a good mate and an actual royal, anyone who speaks posher than her is faking it ence ewton and ohnson always enjoy the most demonstrably o erjoyed winners he ones who scream and shout as if they truly didn t e pect it s look back, think they e all been women, so perhaps the men of ath need to engage with their emotions a bit more readily part from the wards themsel es, it s a massi e party t s an annual opportunity to ha e a drink or a hug or a catch up with people you really like, but whom you ne er get round to seeing otherwise t s a dinner party for a few hundred wicked people

“It’s a dinner party for a few hundred wicked people”

e e er ea of arket n for r n s solicitors; www.thrings.com

he Bath Life wards ha e been a highlight of my year for nearly two decades – an unmissable night of glit , glamour, and incredible recognition for our city s ibrant business community attended my first in its early years and ha e rarely missed one since, whether as a guest, a judge, or e en a winner

he energy in the room is always electric, but a personal standout moment was winning two awards – one for hrings and one for e et t cancer charity

eyond the celebrations, the wards showcase ath s talent, and inno ation, bringing businesses together in a way that strengthens our whole community ere s to more years

ABOVE: David Flatman, BLA host extraordinaire; RIGHT: Lizzie Heffer shining at the Awards

PHOTO BY FUTURE PROOF

PHOTO BY FUTURE

Tim Whelehan co-owner of Sub 13, the cocktail bar cl b an terrace set o er t ree floors on ar l n s .s b1 .net

“I’ve been to the Bath Life Awards every year since 2012 – as a winner fi e times and nominee se eral more times e e also sponsored categories, the after party and my business partner le iller was once memorably a judge t has to be one of the greatest nights of ath social calendar but also its humbling to hear so many inspirational stories from brilliant ath businesses he e ent is not just that it s an iconic party you re getting to mi with all sorts of people from the business, charitable and public sector e had so many insightful encounters at the wards o er the year, both professionally and personally y most memorable moment has to be winning the best bar category for the fifth time in , the roar and the lo e in the room was unforgettable

at te at fe s co erc al rector . e aclas .co. k

“I have been to 18 Bath Life wards, the first one being in , and always as a guest, albeit a working guest t s an e ent ll ne er e er tire of t the start of the e ening, and e ery year, as the guests arri e and the collecti e e citement starts to build, feel a shi er run down my spine it s a bu that is both palpable and infectious t always feels such a pri ilege for myself and the Bath Life team to be a part of the night lo e the mi of organisations, all from ery different sectors, being in ol ed this ariety creates its own special energy on the e ening t s also heart warming to see how supporti e all the finalists are of each other he Bath Life wards are a true reflection of how tight knit and friendly the city s business community really is

BATH

LIFE AWARDS

WOODHOUSE & LAW

HOMES & INTERIORS WINNER

SPONSORED

BY

Nick oodhouse who co founded the interior and garden design with his partner ohn aw, shares why the after show is one of the important parts of the Bath Life wards

You’ve been a part of the Bath Life Awards for several years now since 2013.Why is that?

The Bath Life wards are such an institution in our city, one of the few that really brings together so many people from e ery type of business imaginable e lo ed to get in ol ed and to see who we might meet along the way

How do you find the process of entering?

t was really nice to get the team in ol ed before we put our nomination together, asking e eryone what their highlight of the year was ome were moments of silliness in the studio, others were proud milestones for all the team

You attended with your team, but did you get a chance to network as well?

e were joined on our table by the lo ely om and amie of Di ine a ages t was great to get to know them, and the other ama ing finalists in our category, better

Any other highlights from last year? t was so good to learn about the ama ing initiati es in ath that might otherwise not get the recognition they so rightly deser e n a time of saddening stories in the daily headlines, it was wonderful to hear stories from projects like he ath afe us and hare epair, and charities such as e et t lo ed hearing about all the different ways they helped those with cancer feel less scared and more supported he figures were also fascinating – had no idea that omedia had organised o er e ents at its ath enue, just in the one year

Any advice for this year’s nominees? ake sure you go to the after party hat s when the ner ous part is o er for e eryone and you can really get the con ersations started

For more: www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk| www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

The Woodhouse & Law team celebrating last year

Tim Whelehan, centre, celebrating as a winner

Pat White, on the right, after-partying at Sub 13

ARTS & CREATIVE

Sponsored by Bath Spa University

• Bath Arts Collective

• Bath Carnival

• The Holburne Museum

• The Museum of East Asian Art

• Natural Theatre Company

• The Orchestra Of Everything Foundation

• The Production Garden

• Theatre Royal Bath

• Victoria Art Gallery

• Voices for Life

BAR

Sponsored by Alliance Wales & West

• The Architect

• Bardacious

• Boom Battle Bar Bath

• The Bradley Hare

• The Griffin Inn

• Ludo Sports Bar & Kitchen

• The Ram & Widcombe Deli

• Sub 13

BUSINESS SERVICES

Sponsored by Bath Spa Hotel

• Attinger Jack

• Bath Office Co.

Bath Life Awards 2025 Finalists

• Genesis Trust

• I Can and I Am

• Mentoring Plus and Off The Record

• ReMind UK

• Share and Repair

• Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance Charity

CIVIC

Sponsored by Truespeed

• 1st Impressions

• Bath Carnival

• Bath Community Kitchen

• The Bath Independent

• Bath Women’s Fund

• Komedia Bath

• Winsley House Place Project by Dorothy House

FINANCIAL

Sponsored by Apex City of Bath Hotel

• Bath Building Society

• Gooding Accounts

• Hartsfield

• Lucra Mortgages

• Milstead Langdon

• Unividual

• Windsor Hill Mortgages

HAIR & BEAUTY

and Scientific Institution

• Cobb Farr

• The Holburne Museum

• Inspecs

• The Jane Austen Centre

• Mayden

• Natural Theatre Company

• Price of Bath

• The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

• RUHX

• Sub 13

• Wraxall Builders

• Cobb Farr

• Joint Living

• Nook of Bath

• Otters Home Search

• Rosie Marlow Personal Estate Agent

• SBS Design & Build

• Williams & White

• Wraxall Builders

RESTAURANT

Sponsored by Savills

• Baba’s Mezze

• Bandook

• Bardacious

• Bikano’s Indian Cuisine

• Flute

• Future Ambition Civic Agreement

• Kingswood School

• Radio Bath

• The Rotary Club

• Welcome Ambassadors (by Bath BID, Bath Business Improvement District)

EDUCATION

Sponsored by The Forum, Bath

• Baskerville School of Gymnastics

• Bath Spa University

• Fosse Way Explorer Scouts

• Inspiring Kids

• Kingswood School

• Languages United

• Eat PR & Marketing

• Ebonstone

• Emberson Synergy

• Mostly Media

• The Studio in Bath

• TCN UK/Newark Works

• Team Eleven

• Transition 15

• Varn

CAFE

• Coret Coffee and Wine

• The Green Bird Cafe

• Longfellow’s Café, Fosse Way School

• Newton Farm Cafe

CHARITY

• Peasedown St John Beavers, Cubs and Scouts Troop

• Todo el Mundo

EMPLOYER

Sponsored by Bath Rugby

Sponsored by CREATIVE BATH

• Broad Street Studio

• Dudes n Dolls Beauty

• Toni & Guy Bath

• Townhouse Clinic

• Zara Morgan Hairdressing

HEALTH & WELLBEING

• The Barre Fitness Studio

• Clinical Prevention and Rehabilitation (CP+R)

• Hybrid Health

• Obsidian Cheer and Dance

• The Pilates Quarter

• RUHX

LEISURE & TOURISM

• The SHE Collective

Sponsored by Robun

• Airready

• Bath Abbey

• Bath Box Office

• The Holburne Museum

• In & Beyond Bath

• The Jane Austen Centre

• Lady’s Wood Shooting School

• The Museum of East Asian Art

• The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

• Victoria Art Gallery

NEW BUSINESS

Sponsored by Aspire to Move

• The Mint Room

• Robun

• The Sepoy Club

RETAILER

Sponsored by Zara

Perry Hairdressing

• Broad Street Studio

• Bullfrog

• Flavour Head

• Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights

• Portman Boutiques

SMALL BUSINESS

Sponsored by Minuteman Press, Bath

• Bespoke Family

• Divine Savages

• Hybrid Health

• Joel Bugg Furniture & Spaces

• Somnus Scientific

• Teen Yoga Foundation

• Vitality Day Spa

HOMES & INTERIORS

• Bath Spa University

• Catering Services International

• Dialect

• Digital Wonderlab

• Gooding Accounts

Sponsored by Stone King

• Bath Cats and Dogs Home

• Bath and North East Somerset Carers Centre

• Bath Rugby Foundation

• Dorothy House Hospice Care

• GreenSmart Services

• Mayden

• The Salocin Group

• Unividual

EVENT

Sponsored by DoubleTree by Hilton, Bath

• Bath Carnival

Sponsored by Bath Life

• Berkeley Place

• Divine Savages

• Greenaway Architecture

• Joel Bugg Furniture & Spaces

• Kelly Marie Kitchens

• Kutchenhaus Kitchens Bath

• Libby Carter & Co

• Morrison Studios Chartered Architects

• Virtuoso Flooring

• Vyoo

• Bath Comedy Festival

• Bath Festival of Nature

• BathMUN Society

• Curious Minds

• FilmBath

• Fireworks on the Rec, Rotary Club of Bath

• Walter Ruggiero Design

• Woodhouse and Law

LEGENDS

Sponsored by

Boom Battle Bar

• Bath Building Society

• Bath Royal Literary

• Bath Arts Collective

• Bardacious

• The Barre Fitness Studio

• Bespoke Getaways

• Camella Estate Agents

• Cordiality

• Herring and Groves Services

• The Melter

• Otters Home Search

• Root Spice

• The Sepoy Club

• Zero Dry Time – Bath

PEOPLE SERVICES

• Bespoke Family

• Catering Services International

• Ruth Moody Coaching

• Transition 15

PROPERTY

Sponsored by

• Kelly Marie Kitchens

• MH Tyres Bath

• Mode Consult

• Nick Hems Style

• Sense Risk Solutions

• Townhouse Clinic

SUSTAINABILITY

Sponsored by EntreConf

• Aequus Construction

• Bath Garden Design

• Chapter 2 Architects

• Clean Break Group

• DRIFT Energy

• GA Energy

• Hetreed Ross Architects

• Price of Bath

TECHNOLOGY

Sponsored by Omoda at Platinum

• Apollo Technology

Bath Property Awards

• Aequus Construction

• Arena Global Management

• Aspire To Move

• Bath Stone Property

• Camella Estate Agents

• Digital Wonderlab

• DRIFT Energy

• Mayden

• Rocketmakers

• SmartBear

• Storm Consultancy

• Truespeed

ANNIE

THE QUEEN OF COLOUR

ANNIE SLOAN CBE on her colourful 35 years in the world of paint that began with some yoghurt, some pigment and a kitchen table

Words by Shelley Hughes Portrait picture by Betty Bhandari

The phenomenal Annie Sloan transformed the world of furniture painting with the creation of her revolutionary Chalk Paint

in 1990, which is now sold in 62 countries and can be used on surfaces, furniture, fabric and used even for art. Annie, who lives in Oxford which is where her factory, studios and o ces are based, has sold more than two million books worldwide and is about to release her 28th interiors and décor book. She also publishes The Colourist, a bi-annual bookazine which features interviews with fellow creatives, paint projects and a look at the furniture, homes and places that Annie loves and draws inspiration from.

As part of the Creative Bath programme of events, Annie, who was awarded a CBE last year, recently visited the Little Theatre to talk with MediaClash’s Stephanie Dodd about her incredible 35 year Chalk Paint journey…

Tell us about your early life. I was born in Sydney and lived in Australia until I was ten. My father came from Scotland and my mother came from Fiji, so it’s something I’m rather proud of.

And were you influenced by art at a young age?

Yes. My father was a journalist and had a huge interest in art and literature, and our house was just full of art. All prints, of course.

Who were your earliest influences?

I recall loving the French painter Gauguin because of his traditionally ‘wrong’ colours together. I think for a child those are so wonderful because they were all about colour and story… I used to spend hours just looking, and you could really do some storytelling with these paintings.

Annie is celebrating 35 years since she created her Chalk Paint; INSET: The paint is now sold in 62 countries

: Annie wanted to create a paint that worked on any number of surfaces; RIGHT: Art was and still is a major influence in her life and work; INSET: Découpage projects are the focus of many of Annie’s creative and inspiring tutorials

Did your love for the arts change after leaving Australia for the UK?

I came to England when I was ten, and I just think I’ve always thought I was an artist, right from the beginning, in some way or another. I did go to art school eventually; I was at Croydon Art School in the days when it was very much about the colourists, the colour painters, before I went to Reading University.

How did you find the style of art school?

I think we were all very conceptual and we did performance arts. I was in a performance art band and it was all about personality—about expressing yourself and less about painting. I found myself gravitating more towards artists who made use of texture, painters like Maurice Lewis and Ben Nicholson.

“I HAD THREE YOUNG CHILDREN AT THE TIME, SO I WANTED THE PAINT TO BE DRY BY THE TIME THEY FINISHED SCHOOL”

It seems you weren’t doing much painting yourself while at art school, what made you still decide to pursue it later?

Really, the thing that I love has always been painting, but you’re right I didn’t do much of it when I was at art school. It was until I left school and was asking myself ‘What am I going to do?’, and I thought ‘I’m going to do what I love’ and what do I love? I love paint and colour.

Why did you decide you needed to make your own paint?

Well, there wasn’t really much out there at that time. There was artist paints like acrylics, which can be very hard and plasticky to work with, and other artist paints were expensive, I couldn’t paint a piece of furniture with those. I didn’t like the fact that when I would go to a paint shop, they would say this paint is only for bathrooms, and you’d have to buy all sorts of di erent paints.

What were you looking for?

I wanted a paint a bit like art paint that I could do everything with, that I could make lovely textures or washes with. I knew I wanted it to dry uickly and be very exible – this was 1990 and I had three young children at the time, so I wanted it to be dry by the time they finished school. That was what I wanted but I couldn’t find it

Once Chalk Paint was launched, you started doing the tutorials and upcycling…

Yes, I was always experimenting and seeing what I could do with them. I was doing lots of teaching and thinking of the sort of shops that I would sell my paint in. I love the community that has come about in that time. It is incredibly rewarding. When I made the paint and wrote the books, I was trying to say that everybody’s creative. There’s always something you can do.

You’ve also written many books, including the The Complete Book of Decorative Paint Techniques—widely considered the industry Bible on the subject published in 1990, and magazines. So along with art, you’re obviously a fan of the written word...

es, I love writing books. I do find it amazing, it’s a beautiful thing to do. I’ve just written another one this year, so another is coming out very soon.

Your success has been exceptional. Was there a point you foresaw that?

You sound like you were really focused on what you wanted...

I often am, yes. Occasionally I’m wishy-washy about some things but I have a very good idea about what I want and why I want it. I believe that everybody can be creative and I wanted to make a paint that everybody and anybody could use. I had no idea it would evolve into this incredible creative community across the world.

So where did you start with the creation of your own paint?

I started on my kitchen table with some low fat yoghurt and pigment. I put it on the wall and, well, it’s probably still there. I couldn’t make the best paint ever I can assure you! But it was paint and then I made paint out of egg yolk as well. You can really make paint out of anything!

What about the manufacturing of the paint?

I found a factory in Belgium and the people we met in this factory were very keen on making paint with me. They were a small, independent family company, which was important to me, you know, those are the people that listen to you because they can see what you’re doing. They’ve got a love for it as well. We did eventually move it to Oxford because as we expanded, it was much better for me to be able to control it which was, and still is very important.

No, not at all. I thought it was a good idea, obviously I could see that much, but I didn’t realise the extent it would all happen. Because now Chalk Paint is in 62 countries, and every country’s slightly di erent with thousands of stockists who sell our paint.

Sounds like that CBE you received in 2023 was very much deserved…

It was probably the biggest shock of my life! My husband read it to me and we both thought that the word CB was a mistake, I still find it extraordinary. I received it at Windsor Castle from Princess Anne.

Finally, tell us a little about your Oxfam collaboration…

We’ve done a lot of collaborations with other companies, but I think the nicest one we did was bringing out a Chalk Paint colour with Oxfam called Lem Lem in 2017. It is in support of women in Ethiopia. I took inspiration from the rolling fields of soft green allium plants I saw whilst exploring the farms and the communities supported by Oxfam’s Ethiopian Seed Project. The name Lem Lem means to ourish in Amharic, the farmers taught it to me and I thought it was the perfect name for the new colour because like the Seed Project itself it represents hope.

For more: www.anniesloan.com | www.creativebath.org

LEFT

FRESH THINKING

OVER A FINE LUNCH

Unique social business occasion: live interview with Claire Smith, Buro Happold JOIN US Tuesday 8 April from 12pm

Around 70 people were at the Little Theatre last November to see Creative Bath interview paint legend Annie Sloan.

Photos by Betty Bhandari; www.bettybhandaribrandphotography.com

Annie outside the Little

Hannah Lee, Tom Kennedy and Jamie Watkins

The talk covered what inspires Annie

Michelle Armitage, Abby Hechavarria and Hannah Redden

The legendary paint is now 35 years old

Stephanie Dodd, Annie Sloane and Holly Glover

John Law, Nick Woodhouse and Rebecca Morgan

Annie shares insights into her life

The Little Theatre was the scene for the interview

YULE LOVE THIS NEWS!

Following the success of 2024’s Bath Christmas Market the dates for this year’s event have been confirmed, 27 November to 14 December.

Last year 180 chalets showcased more than 23 traders, 8 per cent of whom are based in the South est. orty per cent of the 8 traders signed up for the first time are based

in Bath and the surrounding areas, attracting hundreds of thousands of annual visitors.

BAN S councillor Paul Roper says, e’re excited to be able to confirm the 2 2 dates already – the 2 thanniversary of the event – so that residents, international visitors and traders can plan their return For more: www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk

The Abney & Baker team celebrate their Best Workplace In Healthcare recognition

CARE GIVERS

The local home care company Abney Baker has been rankedNumber 1 on Great Place to ork’s 2 24 UK Best orkplaces in Healthcare. The recognition highlights a commitment to providing an exceptional workplace culture and putting its team members first and was the sixth award the company was awarded in 2 24. Ian illis, founder and C , says, It just great care to our clients but also an outstanding, supportive environment for our team. For more: www.abneyandbaker.com

ON THE UP

Bath has a new event venue in ROYAL VICTORIA PARK following an agreement between local business owner Simon Smith and B&NES council that was brokered Stone King’s head of real estate Caroline Taylor. Simon runs a host of ventures in the city, including the ice rink and beach bar and plans to keep running these attractions as well as bring new events to the park. www.stoneking.co.uk

THRINGS legal director Anna Patterson and associate Zhenja Cann, based in the firm’s Wiltshire and Bristol offices respectively, now offer a unique approach to help couples who are separating, having completed the training through national body, Resolution. Couples looking to part amicably now have extended support through its One Couple One Lawyer service. www.thrings.com

In a new review published in January’s The Good Schools Guide (GSG) has declared KING EDWARD’S SCHOOL “Bath’s Academic A-Team”. The report goes onto say, “‘Pupil voice is celebrated, and school council brings about real change” and also that KES is “a welcoming and accepting” school. www.kesbath.com

Anna Patterson and Zhenja Cann of Thrings

Bath Christmas Market is returning 27 November 27 to 14 December

Simon Smith and Caroline Taylor

Praise for KES Bath

STAR ATTRACTIONS

Bath’s Heritage Attractions recently celebrated success at the Bristol, Bath & Somerset Tourism Awards. The Roman Baths & Pump Room, Victoria Art Gallery, and Bath World Heritage Centre all earned accolades. These included The Roman Baths & Pump Room that scooped Gold in the Active & Learning Experience category for the Unearthing Aquae Sulis – Life in a Roman Town activity; Searcys at The Pump Room Restaurant were awarded Gold for Café/Tearoom of the Year; and the Victoria Art Gallery: The Wonderful World of the Ladybird Book Artists exhibition won Bronze for Tourism Event of the Year.

Robert Campbell, head of heritage services, says, “To win across so many of our sites is a testament to the uality of experience we o er. I’m particularly proud to see our exceptional learning programme acknowledged as one of the best in the region.”

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk

AT THE HEAD

Bath Spa University has a new vice-chancellor, Professor Georgina Andrews, who was previously the deputy vice-chancellor and provost at BSU.

Professor Andrews succeeded Professor Sue Rigby on 1 January who is now principal and vice-chancellor of Edinburgh Napier University after seven years at BSU.

Georgina says, “It is an honour and a privilege to have been appointed to lead Bath Spa University as the vice-chancellor, at such an

exciting time in its history. The BSU community of learners is inclusive, collaborative and vibrant.

“We are rooted in the world heritage city of Bath, but our talented students and sta are also based at our site in London, and our valued partners support diverse cohorts of learners across the UK and overseas.

Under my leadership, we will raise our profile and ambition as we claim our rightful position as a confident, successful, professionally creative university for the future.”

For more: www.bathspa.ac.u

BUSINESS DIARY

17 MARCH

Bath Life Network Lunch at Walcot House with Roger Saul of Sharpham Park–sponsored by Milsted Langdon; www.mediaclash.co.uk

20 MARCH

Bristol Life Awards 2025 at Ashton Gate Stadium; www.mediaclash.co.uk

24 MARCH

EntreConf dinner with Margaret Hefferman at The Square Club, Berkeley Square, Bristol; www.entreconf.com

27 MARCH

Bath Life Awards at the Bath Forum; www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

8 APRIL

Bath Life Network Lunch at Walcot House with Claire Smith of Buro Happold; www.mediaclash.co.uk

21 MAY

Creative Bath Awards at Komedia; www.creativebath.org

18 & 19 JUNE

EntreConf at The Watershed, Bristol; www.entreconf.com

3 – 6 JULY

Bath Boules at Queen Square; www.bathboules.com

Professor Georgina Andrews is the new vice chancellor of Bath Spa University

The multi-award winning Bath Heritage Attractions team

Former Mulberry founder Roger Saul is being interviewed at the next Bath Life Network Lunch

PATH

SOPHIE ANDREWS CAREER

The founder of BA1 Studios on learning to love working for herself

Sophie Andrews set up BA1 Studios in September 2023 with a focus on providing a personal and approachable service, elevating independent businesses, bringing their unique brand story, products or ser ice to life t offers a range of different marketing ser ices including photography, branding, website design, email marketing and consultancy. Here we learn more about Sophie’s motivation and inspiration to set up on her own.

How did you fall into the world of marketing?

From an early age I’ve always been career driven, but with much more of a creative focus. ne of my first part time jobs was admin support, which I did alongside studying, but I was fortunate enough to be sat in the same o ce as some marketing

team members. I used this opportunity to absorb as much information as possible, teaching myself how to use various platforms and from this, I was offered my first marketing role at 18.

What would you say you learned from that first job?

In my previous role, I was in the position of reaching out to arious marketing agencies on behalf of the company worked for. Surprisingly, I found the process uite di cult, e en with a decent budget. It was challenging to find an agency that was approachable, non patronising, and genuinely passionate about becoming a true extension of the business.

Sounds like this was a catalyst to going it alone... fter some reflection, and with the economy in a tough

spot, I realised there was an opportunity to offer marketing services tailored to businesses that might not have the big corporate budgets, don’t want the commitment of hiring full time staff, or simply need fle ible ad hoc marketing support hese businesses could range from start ups and independents, to larger businesses just lacking internal marketing resources

What were those early days of BA1 Studios like?

In all honesty, really lonely –there were a lot of tears! It was essentially a ery different work dynamic for me – from years of working as part of a busy team in a fast paced o ce, to then working from home on my own, and being responsible for every part of the business. I’m a huge people person, and a lot of the projects worked on at the start involved only meeting people virtually, so that was an adjustment

How were these overcome?

As the business started to grow, had more in person projects and meetings and I realised how important these were, both to the business and to me as a person. found my new work routine and the best places for coffee and began to really love it. From there I started building great relationships with new clients, as well as developing my lovely team of freelance creatives, and found a real confidence in the work was doing and the ser ices we were providing.

Would you say being Bathbased helps your business?

I am from Bath and I love it here he city s small close knit community means word of mouth has been a key dri er for us. Bath is home to a mix of

“ I FOUND A REAL CONFIDENCE IN THE WORK I WAS DOING”

thriving independent businesses, from newly launched ventures to those that have been here for years. Additionally, we’ve had the privilege of collaborating with talented local creatives, which has e panded our networking opportunities and allowed us to further support the local community.

How might you describe your key clientele?

ur key clientele are independent businesses that are all shapes and sizes, across different industries hese specific clients know they need marketing support either on a retainer basis or for a specific project, yet don’t want the commitment of recruiting someone in house e are the next best thing; saving business owners/management time, bringing a fresh perspective and becoming a natural extension to their business.

Tell us a little about the people you work with… I’m at the heart of the business, project managing and helping businesses adopt a more strategic approach to their marketing then ha e a handpicked team of talented freelance creatives around me, such as; photographers, videographers, graphic designers, branding specialists, digital marketing experts and more. Each creative offers a different style of work, allowing us to pro ide a best in class service for our clients, and the fle ibility to fit to different budget sizes.

Finally, how have you developed professionally and personally?

think most business owners can relate when I say that the line between personal and professional often blurs. In the last year, I have realised how important it is to incorporate the more personal side into the day to day running of the business, being as authentic as possible has attracted like minded clients and creatives. It’s true when they say that being you is your USP!

For more: www.ba1studios.co.uk

NEW BUSINESS THINKING

University of Bath, School of Management alumnus PHILIPPA KINDON on career development, collaborations, and building networks

Istarted my BSc Business degree at the University of Bath, School of Management in 1996. The o ering of two six-month placements really stood out to me. Getting workplace experience and a degree whilst spending time on a friendly campus in a beautiful city was great and I made lifelong friends. After graduating, I also completed my PhD at the School.

I now work in business development at Mayden, a local health tech company that designs and builds digital technology for community and mental health services. We recently expanded into neurodiversity support services, leveraging 25 years of expertise in adult Talking Therapies and children and young people’s mental health. Quite a lot of what I do includes building knowledge on

“ ONE OF THE STUDENTS WE WORKED WITH FIVE YEARS AGO DEVELOPED A MODEL TO HELP US BETTER UNDERSTAND OUR CUSTOMER JOURNEY, WHICH WE STILL USE TODAY ”

potential new markets, so connections between Mayden and the School of Management are really helpful.

We’ve partnered with the School on several occasions because it has a great reputation, they’re easy to work with and you know the students have a strong skill set. Plus, quite a few of the Mayden team have connections with the University, so it’s a great way to build on our network.

We’ve worked with the School in a variety of ways. e’ve o ered placements, employed graduates and collaborated on Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, to name a few. Currently, the MBA students are doing their ‘Change in Action’ project with us. They’ve looked at our market strategy and o ered some great recommendations.

e also o er MSc summer projects. ne of the students we worked with five years ago developed a model to help us better understand our customer journey, which we still use today. What’s great about these projects is how the students can spend time collating in-depth information, using both academic and practical knowledge, that we don’t always have the time to do ourselves.

My advice to anyone thinking about o ering a project to School of Management students is to speak to the School about what outcomes

you want from your project. We’ve had in-depth projects like the KTPs and more light-touch ones like our current one with the MBAs and each has been valuable in its own way.

To me, ambition means believing that you can make a positive di erence in the world, by doing all you can to achieve success, reach your potential, and amplify others looking to do the same.

A quote that expresses this well is: “Great leaders do not create followers; they create more leaders”. This was originally said by Tom Peters, a great management thinker whom I remember first learning about as a student all those years ago, yet it still feels relevant today.

Interested in providing a project to University of Bath, School of Management students? Email sompart erships bath.ac.u to fi d out more.

WIN THE ULTIMATE MOTHER’S DAY EXPERIENCE

Make this Mother’s Day extra special with a luxury experience, courtesy of BATH RUGBY and KALEIDOSCOPE GROUP

A LUXURY RUGBY AND SPA EXPERIENCE WITH BATH RUGBY AND KALEIDOSCOPE GROUP

Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and why settle for flowers and chocolates? Show Mum just how much she means to you by treating her to an experience she won’t forget, courtesy of Bath Rugby and Kaleidoscope Group.

This year, we’ve teamed up to offer a prize that combines the excitement of sell-out crowds and top-tier rugby with the ultimate relaxation at one of the region’s finest retreats. We are

giving you the chance to win two general admission tickets for Bath Rugby’s sell-out fixture against Harlequins on Saturday 29 March (kick-off 15:05), a luxury and wellness spa day for two at Homewood Spa and a bottle of Pol Roger Champagne to celebrate the occasion.

LUXURY & WELLNESS AT HOMEWOOD SPA

Unwind to the max with a luxury spa experience, including a 60-minute treatment, use of the spa facilities, and a two-course lunch or afternoon tea. Discover the sensory delights of the hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, heated outdoor pool, hot tub and relaxation areas, along with a 60-minute treatment of your choice.

BATH RUGBY V HARLEQUINS

The visit of Harlequins always promises to be a fiercely competitive fixture. Currently sitting just outside the play-offs in the Gallagher Premiership, Harlequins have been a formidable opponent for the Blue, Black and White in recent years, and this year will be no exception. Looking ahead to this month’s showdown against Billy Millard’s side at a sold-out Rec, the Blue, Black and White will be aiming to carry

on their winning run of Premiership form in this thrilling contest.

HOW TO ENTER:

Entering is simple! Visit our website (www. bathrugby.com/win-the-ultimate-mothersday-experience) and fill out your details for the chance to win this incredible Mother’s Day experience. Be sure to check out the full Terms and Conditions on the site, where you’ll find all the information you need. The competition closes at 23:59 on Sunday 23 March 2025.

Visit our website to enter www.bathrugby.com/win-the-ultimatemothers-day-package

Jake Farrell

Independent Estate Agent

I’m your local experienced agent and I offer FREE property valuations. I grew up in the local area so I know it well. Coupled with my experience, I really understand what it takes to securing a buyer and ensuring a successful sale in a bustling property market. I cover postcodes including BA1, BA2, BA14, BA13, SN10, SN12. All areas I have worked in and sold property before. If you would like to know more, pick up the phone and call me for a chat, or text/WhatsApp me at any time as I’m more than happy to help!

Why Choose me?

You will have a super personalised service. You'll have a 1-1 agent throughout from valuation to completion. I have a support team in place who handle viewing requests through to conducting viewings if needed. Throughout, I will be here for you. No pillar to post with different office negotiators.

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Development

NEW HOMES PROPOSED

lans to de elop almost energy e cient city centre homes to support ath orth ast omerset ouncil s commitment to building a mi of housing solutions, as part of its ambitious conomic trategy, ha e been shared for consultation

reser ed matters application has been made by the council s wholly owned de elopment company e uus onstruction imited for hase of thewider ath uays orth comprehensi e mi ed use de elopment site in orn treet he site already has the benefit of an e tant outline planning permission for the erection

of dwellings in two residential apartment blocks with associated work he application seeks appro al for the reser ed matters of access layout landscaping scale and appearance pursuant to the outline planning permission and aims to deli er one and two bedroom apartments pro iding energy e cient city centre homes in a design that is sensiti e to its heritage and landscape conte t ouncillor att c abe, cabinet member for built en ironment, housing and sustainable de elopment says, e uus s planning application is part of a mi of housing options that will help us di ersify housing supply

locally and include open market, affordable and social housing right across uilding these homes as the first phase of ath uays orth will help support further in estment for affordable homes in later phases his supports the council s commitment set out in its conomic trategy to de elop a housing offer that is accessible and attracti e to all, ensuring our housing stock meets the needs of different resident groups

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk

Ham Green, Holt, Wiltshire, BA14 6PX

Tel: 01225 308541 • info@formosakbb.co.uk formosakbb.co.uk

What Bath Quays North’s six and seven plots might look like

Architecture IN TALKS

Bath Preservation Trust has introduced a new programme of events which have been developed with the support of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Bristol and Bath.

The monthly talks, which started on arch and finish in o ember, are held at the Museum of Bath Architecture on the Paragon, include industry experts exploring themes such as urban rewilding, regenerative design, adaptive reuse, creative engagement, sustainable landscapes and planting. The aim of the programme is to share insights and projects from leading designers and architects which demonstrate best practice, sustainable development and design excellence.

Alex Sherman, CEO at Bath Preservation Trust, says, “This brilliant new programme of talks, generously sponsored by RIBA, showcases some exemplary projects and urban design from across the UK.”

For more: www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk | www. architecture.com

Hermitage Mews in South London by Gbolade Design Studio who will be speaking on 7 May about designing a sustainable future

Event

HOME TRUTHS

Savills Bath is hosting a unique, free-to-attend event called Home Truths, exploring what the local residential property market might have in store this year.

Taking place on 3 April at Farleigh House, experts will be sharing their insights on the trends that will shape the market in and around Bath in the months ahead. Guests will have the opportunity to ask questions and enjoy drinks and canapés, all within the beautiful surroundings of the country house based in Farleigh Hungerford.

Head of Savills Bath, Alistair Heather, says, “Home Truths will look beyond the headlines and give our local community the opportunity to find out what s really happening in the residential market.

“Along with our local sales and lettings experts, we are delighted to welcome Savills head of residential research and a guest speaker from F pri ate finance o, if you are thinking of making a move this year, please join us to help you to get the best out of the market.”

To register for the event, that runs 6.60pm to 8.30pm, please email bath@savills.com

For more: www.savills.co.uk

Savills is hosting a free event to discuss Bath’s housing trends

arm and e cient, tasteful and considered, there s a lot to be said for a uality new build, and when they re in a location as endearing as this one, well, we just had to take a look

By Paul Marland

Here s something a little different for a property showcase: not a single highly covetable home, perhaps some tastefully restored eorgian townhouse or striking architect designed glass and steel e tra agan a arbie s Dreamhouse but with a little less fuchsia and a lot more taupe , but instead an entire de elopment, with a fab location – in the pretty illage of o , just se en miles down the north east of ath – with the bijou ybrook bubbling past and eter abriel s eal orld tudios right on your doorstep

ld imberyard comprises sustainable two , three and four bedroom homes designed by award winning architects and put together by iltshire based tonewood omes, specialists in both distincti e new houses and high end barn con ersions across the south west ith the water flowing gently nearby, di ided from the houses by grass and trees, and ample parking tucked away in the corners, they re both

“How green are Prettythey? bloomin’ green, comes the answer”

away from the igh treet and ondon oad, but just a short walk to shops, sports fields, gyms, surgeries, post o ces, nurseries and schools nd there are great pubs and caf s here too he uarryman s rms, he irdhouse, he orthey rms, and on and on

n the outside, they re awash with slate, brick and endless wood, surrounded by thoughtful landscaping and largely pa ed rear gardens nd on the inside, these houses are all calming neutrals, contemporary handleless kitchens, brushed stainless steel fittings and air source heat pumps

o, which style takes your fancy he two bedroom ew houses from k are mostly open plan on the ground floor, home to a generous m m kitchen li ing dining room along with hall, stairs, utility and loo , with two bedrooms and a family bathroom abo e lightly bigger are the spen two bed apartments from k , all on one floor with the big difference being that one bedroom has an en suite and the main li ing space is yet larger than the ew s, running to m all told

Going up in size again, the three-bedroom Willow houses (from £550k) have just a shared family bathroom on the upper floor, but the open plan living space downstairs is bigger again (8.3m x 6.1m), while the grandest offerings – the four bedroom aks from k – are spread o er three floors plus garage, with bedrooms on the ground and top floors the pair up here both have en suites) sandwiching a large openplan kitchen dining li ing floor he smaller options are leasehold, the larger freehold, and with the Willows you get the choice of either.

Stonewood makes a big deal of the entire de elopment s green credentials – de rigour these days, of course. But just how green are they, you might find yourself asking cynically, perhaps, but not without reason. Well, pretty bloomin’ green, comes the answer energy e cient mechanical extraction ventilation) systems draw out moisture more effecti ely than e tractor fans walls and airtight double gla ed windows are specifically designed for

HOUSE NUMBERS

Prices From £375,000-£850,000

Bedrooms From 2 to 4

Bathrooms and loos From 2 to 3

For more Stonewood Homes, Castle Combe, Chippenham; www.stonewood homes.co.uk

heat conser ation carefully chosen building materials like the F certified timber frames and eco-friendly insulation) lower the carbon footprints while solar panels seamlessly embedded into the slate-tiled roofs do that – and sa e you money too aturally, there are charging points e erywhere

lso making life easy, a couple of effortless options for getting rid of your e isting property either tonewood will buy it off you at an independently alued price art change, they call this or through mooth o e they ll get less in ol ed, but still help you sell it.

retty tempting, hey o is a dream – as well as Bath, there’s Chippenham nearby, Corsham right on your doorstep, and all around is the Cotswolds Area of utstanding atural eauty – and li ing in a just secluded-enough, up-to-the-minute and well-thoughtthrough home like this has so much to be said for it, not least if you’re done with the drafts and upkeep of period properties. Worth thinking about, anyway…

Chadwicks Interior Architecture & Design consultancy is based in the South West of England founded by award winning interior architect and designer Chad Evans, offering the very best in residential and commercial interior architecture and design.

Please take a look at what we can do for you and contact us with any questions about our services, to discuss your project and book an introductory meeting.

Our areas of expertise

Interior Architecture | Interior Design

Branded Environment Design

Listed Building Interiors | Bespoke Design

■ An exceptional residential and commercial design service

■ Decades of top-tier experience

■ An agile and passionate consultancy

■ Focused personal service, with only a select few projects live at any given time

■ Work independently or alongside your project team

■ Cost-effectiveness with lower overheads than larger rms

■ Only one point of contact throughout the project

07307 429048

chad@chadwicksdesign.co.uk www.chadwicksdesign.co.uk

“The devil is in the details”

FOR THE HOME

Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for Spring

SANDRIDGE

STONE is a local craft-skills business specialising in all aspects of building and restoring local Bath Stone properties. It can supply and fix all stone re uirements for new builds or extensions. The team’s heritage skills ualified stonemasons are also expert in repairing and restoring existing stone on listed properties in order to fulfil planning re uirements. Bou dary arm Berryfie d e sham Te www.sandridgestone.co.uk

JENNIFER MOSSE DESIGN STUDIO

A bespoke, tailor-made, client-focused interior design consultancy service based in Bath. Specialising in residential interior design and providing a truly personal service adapted to each client’s needs, ennifer’s uni ue style blends seamlessly between period and contemporary homes. The aim is simple – to create spaces that bring joy, re ecting her clients’ lifestyles and personalities. Te www.jennifermosse.com

BROADLEAF

Broadleaf are the UK’s leading manufacturer and retailer of beautiful wood ooring, with a uni ue and unrivalled range of solid and engineered plank and par uet. pen since 2 22 their extensive Bath showroom showcases the complete collection. Visit their expert, friendly team to find inspiration, discuss your project and pick up samples. a cot t www.broadleaftimber.com

BATH KITCHEN COMPANY

Based in the heart of Bath and specialising in bespoke, handmade kitchens, Bath Kitchen Company become personally invested in every kitchen they design and build. It’s about attention to detail at every stage – creating a beautiful space that enhances the way you live. orth arade Bui di gs Bath B Te www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk

TILE & FLOOR or over years, Tile loor has been synonymous with the supply of a range of top-tier design-led materials and professional installation services. ur commitment to uality has forged enduring relationships with discerning homeowners overseeing their personal projects, as well as with design and construction professionals serving the property industry. xciting news e are now also conveniently located at Chippenham M4. Te www.tileandfloor.co.uk

CLAIR STRONG INTERIOR DESIGN

Clair Strong Interior Design is a bouti ue, creative company based in Bath, providing a wide range of services for both residential and commercial clients. Her portfolio of projects includes the design, project coordination and sourcing for some of Bath’s most beautiful residences, as well as hotels, sports clubs, o ces and other commercial venues. o tact air o or www.clairstrong.co.uk

MENDIP FIREPLACES BATH

Bath’s leading fireplace, wood burner, gas fire, chimney and ue specialist. rom classic to contemporary, concept to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include Chesneys, Barbas Bellfire, estfire, Stovax, Gazco and Hunter. Get in touch or visit the showroom. e dip irep aces o to ombe Bath B D i fo me dipfirep acesbath.co.u Te ; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

BONITI Situated on the outskirts of Bath, Boniti presents an extensive array of top-notch interior and exterior products. erings include natural stone and timber ooring, Everhot Range Cookers, as well as porcelain and decorative tiles. Providing exceptional installation and restoration services, Boniti pride themselves on delivering a friendly and personalised experience, with customer satisfaction at the heart of it all. Du sdow Bar est itt eto i tshire Te www.boniti.com

NEXUS OF BATH is a Bath based family business specialising in painting and decorating, plastering, tiling, sash window restoration and other property restoration. Nexus have built a reputation for the highest standards of workmanship with experience across a range of projects from listed buildings through to new builds, with a complete commitment to customer service and health and safety Te ; www.nexusofbath.co.uk

YVONNE

JEWKES

The Professor of Criminology at the University of Bath on designing prisons and finding freedom through friendship

Yvonne Jewkes is Professor of Criminology at the University of Bath, and helps to design prisons to be rehabilitative, rather than punitive. She is also a creative writing teacher and runs Freedom to Write with fellow author Andy West. Together they host workshops and retreats, and are writers-in-residence at two prisons, HMP Grendon and HMP Rye Hill.

Yvonne, who moved to Bath a year ago, recently published a memoir called An Architecture of Hope, telling the story of her professional career and personal life, which she will be discussing at this month’s Curious Minds Festival on 19 March, along with the topic of whether prisons should be beautiful. She is also running a writing workshop on 15 March.

I endured rather than enjoyed school. I was an underachiever – bright and curious, but easily bored by the regimentation of education. English was the only subject I excelled in.

After studying for a degree in English and a Masters in Mass Communications Research, I did a PhD at the institute of Criminology at Cambridge. I was interested in the role of media in prisons. In-cell television was being introduced, which meant that prisoners were being locked up for longer and prisons were quieter and more orderly because TVs were confiscated for bad beha iour rison staff referred to tele ision as the ‘electronic babysitter’.

Prison design combines my interests in architecture, interior design,

“My life has taken many unexpected and enriching turns since those dark times”

environmental psychology and criminal justice. The first project worked on was the design of a new maximumsecurity prison in New Zealand, which was meant to be a progressive, healing place, but ended up a supermax that is the opposite of those things. I tell the story in my book – it was a chastening experience.

An Architecture of Hope explores the idea that confinement comes in many guises. I write about the breakdown of a 25-year relationship and what it’s like to find yourself single in mid life To compound the turmoil, my ex-partner left me with a house he’d dismantled. It was a restoration project, but it turned out he was better at destruction than reconstruction.

The project overwhelmed him and he bailed out, leaving me with the chaos of a house with missing walls, floors and ceilings. He later did something even worse. Freedom comes in different guises too, though, and my book tells how I took on the challenge of the renovation and found freedom in friendship, travel, and turning my house into a home. I hope that readers will find inspiration in it y life has taken many unexpected and enriching turns since those dark times.

Renovating that house in Cheltenham felt like taming a monster. I did more in 18 months than my ex-partner had managed in 11 years. But, actually, writing the book about that period of my life was an even greater achievement. I dug deep to write about my personal life,

but it was very cathartic. I’m not one to look back with regret –I always look forward.

I now live in Larkhall. It has everything you could want, from an independent theatre to a hardware store. It’s got a great deli and farmshop too. I love it because it has retained its village feel, yet is only 25 minutes’ walk from the centre of Bath.

I’m currently writing a book with my friend Nick who is in prison. It’s about his life – how he became a prolific criminal to fund his heroin addiction, spent 20 years in prison, did a criminology degree, found a talent for writing and painting, and is now turning his life around. He will be released later this year and our book will chart his journey, and the ways in which our stories intertwine.

My most prized possession is a cyanotype that Nick made while in Grendon prison, which sits beside my bed. It shows light coming through the bars of his cell window and seems symbolic of hope, enlightenment and new starts. Perhaps it will become the cover of our book…

An Architecture Of Hope: Reimagining the prison, restoring a house, rebuilding myself by Yvonne Jewkes, Scribe Publications, £18.99; www.scribepublications.co.uk

For more: www.freedomtowrite.co.uk | www.batharts.co.uk

PHOTO BY ASHLEY J. BOURNE