It’s spring again and we have again, tulips from Alkmaar
We’ve gone a bit small minded this issue. And not in a negative, mean way but with more of a ‘look closely and find the joy’ vibe. It wasn’t a deliberate intention in this mega bumper issue, but on reflection maybe it’s a reaction to the volume levels being turned up elsewhere. To badly paraphrase, when they go loud, we go hush.
Our interiors feature over on page 28 explores small wonders with the help of our many talented local designers who share their ideas, inspiration and tops tips for making the most of small, forgotten spaces in our homes. Now those ‘up and over’ bookshelves have gone to the top of my ‘want’ list.
In our weddings special, we’ve 15 simple expert ideas for that ‘vow’ factor (page 74) and have coupled this (deliberate pun, yes) with locally and lovingly sourced wedding favours, each one coming it at under £10 (page 85). We’re so smitten with this editor’s choice we’re squirreling away the suggestions for future stocking fillers and more immediate necessary pick me ups. Even our property showcase on page 154 is quietly understated – all the elegance of Georgian gem without the price tag of a king’s ransom.
But over on page 25, our resident columnist David Flatman is less enamoured with the little things – slugs to be precise – invading his space and causing him big problems. So we concede not all good things come in small packages.
SARAH MOOLLA
Issue 527 / April 2025
COVER The Classic English Kitchen from the deVOL Kitchen Range, prices from £30,000; www.devolkitchens.co.uk (Turn to page 28 for our interiors feature)
INTERIORS
28 SMALL SPACES How to make the most of all of your home
THE ARTS
61 ARTS INTRO Painter Katherine Jackson at Beaux Arts
62 WHAT’S ON People to see, places to go
64 CULTURE CLUB The arty picks of Sally Ann Triplett
66 FILMS What’s big at The Little
LIFESTYLE
74 WEDDINGS Expert advice on creating the vow factor
85 SHOP LEAD Big day cookies
86 EDITOR’S CHOICE Small favours
FOOD & DRINK
93 NEWS FEED Nuggets from Bath’s foodie scene
94 RESTAURANT Barn dining at Horrell & Horrell
GARDENS
98 FLOWERS Exploring Bath’s special relationship with the tulip NETWORK
101 NETWORK LEAD How a student project created millionaires
104 NETWORK NEWS Business news, views, and interviews
107 CAREER PATH Elaine Ward of The Pilates Quarter
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ENTER STAGE RIGHT
Theatre Royal Bath is crushing it at the moment – with every production going from strength to strength. It’s currently staging a world première production featuring an astonishing cast of musical theatre royalty in Alfred Hitchcock Presents – The Musical directed by John Doyle (turn to page 38 for more). As soon that ends on 12 April, we’re hurtling into a plethora of theatrical treats which include Opera della Luna‘s production of The Mikado (13 –17 May), and ballet dance legend Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell (20 – 24 May).
At the end of June the much anticipated Ralph Fiennes season starts whereby the Tony and BAFTA award-winning actor will perform in, and direct, a selection of plays in the Main House. The prestigious and reformed London City Ballet will be performing 24 – 26 July. There’s much excitement as we prepare to welcome Lily Allen to the Ustinov end of July to play the enigmatic and destructive Hedda Gabler in a re-imagining of the Ibsen classic Hedda In August it’s another world première when a stage adaptation of P.D. James’s best-selling novel Death Comes to Pemberley comes to Bath telling the tale of love, betrayal, and intrigue in Regency England in (5 – 8 August). There’s more Regency romps when, at the height of Jane Austen season in Bath, a new production of Emma launches (11 – 20 September.)
Looking further ahead, next February Jodie Comer will be in town with her Olivier, Evening Standard, Whatsonstage and Tony Award winning performance in Susie Miller’s gripping onewoman Olivier Award winning play, Prima Facie
There’s also the great news that a fourth community venue is being built at the 219 years old site – turn to page 152 for more. For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk
CLOCKWISEFROMTOP: Jodie Comer stars in Prima Facie coming to Theatre Royal Bath in February 2026; see London City Ballet in July; Lily Allen stars in Hedda at the Ustinov; Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell runs 20 – 24 May; Opera della Luna‘s production of The Mikado is also in May; Ralph Fiennes season starts at the end of June
BY
PHOTO
JOHAN PERSSON
@rhianwirtz
@frankie.says_
POTS OF GOLD
Somewhere over the rainbow...
@rob_browne_photos
@typical_wonderland
@thebathlandlady
@hollydoudou.
@jamiebellinger
@BathCityFarm
SCENE
THE LATEST ADVENTURES IN PARTY-GOING ACROSS BATH
Bath
A GREAT RECEPTION
round finalists, sponsors and guests gathered at ouble ree by ilton ath on arch for the pre Bath Life ards net orking bash uests mingled ith old friends and ne faces, ith speeches from edia lash chief e ec reg ngham, tephanie odd and an c all from i e eros, the ards ne headline sponsor he Bath Life ards, no in its th year, as held at ath orum on arch ook out for full co erage in an upcoming issue
Photos by Narrated Frames; www.narratedframes.com
For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk
Jamie Watkins
Kelsey Shawgo
John Law and Nick Woodhouse
Lottie May and Hannah Rials
Ailsa Eaglestone and Sheila Minwa
Indianna Blunden, Kimberly Marshall, Janik Yeshim and Nishit Chotai
Iunia Tamas, Sarah Baker and Lucy Middlefell
Soham Mirashi and Yuvaraj Mani
Dan McCall
Life hosted the event at DoubleTree by Hilton Bath
Nathan Baranowski and Jeff Welch
Hem Patel
Les Redwood, Ralph Oswick and Nick Steel
Nancy Lewendon
Bradley Bailey
Katy Morrison
Abbie Long and Francesca Watson
Caroline Baxter and Will Maslin
Nicholas Fleming
Ben Tadd
Carly Hales and Melissa Anderson
THE FEST TIME
Chris and Denise Rogers, co-chairs of Bath Festivals, held their annual dinner to say thanks to the patrons. This year the venue was Homewood and around 46 guests enjoyed a champagne reception followed by a three course dinner in the Chandelier Room. There were speeches from Chris and Denise, and executive chair Richard Hall. Entertainment was provided by from Andy Burden of The Natural Theatre Company who sang and played guitar during dessert.
by Barry Savell For more: www.bathfestivals.org.uk
Yvonne Cullum and Lucia Thompson Jon and Tessa Armstrong
Andy Burden, Antoinette Downey, Morny Hay-Davison and Joe Downey
Antoinette Downey and Christa Taylor
Denise Coughlan
Chris Rogers, Sharon Savell and Mark Cadbury
Denise Coughlan and Chris Rogers
Andy Burden
Bill Keeling, Yasemin Hall, Francesca Hall and William Hobhouse
Photos
Guests enjoyed a three course dinner
Karen Stuckey, Hilary Arundale and Jenni Wagstaffe
CARTOON CAPERS
Around 140 guests were treated to a private view of the new exhibitions Mirror of Mirth and Perry Harris: Essence of Bath at Victoria Art Gallery. There was a speech by Rob Campbell, head of culture and heritage at Bath & North East Somerset Council and wine and soft drinks were sold to raise money for the Friends of the Victoria Art Gallery. Both exhibitions are ending mid-April.
Photos by Johnny Hathaway; www.onlinepictureproof.com For more: www.victoriagal.org.uk
Amy Frost and Patrizia Ribul
Matt McCabe, Ruth Malloy, Andy Gilson and Cathy Gilson
Sarah and Adam Rees-Leonard with Hector and Freddie
Jo Johnston, Colin Johnston and Mary Stringer
Lucia Grimshaw, Edward Grimshaw and Michael Rowe
Harry Ford and Yin Li
Rich Hook and Sveta Antonova
Karen Harris, Perry Harris and Jake Harris
Jane Jones and Carole Banwell
Peter Brookes, Tom Pope, Jim Riseley and Richard Wagstaffe
ON SHOW
Painter and illustrator Bonnie Hawkins brought the art work from her new, illustrated edition of Under Milk Wood to the Bath & County Club on Queens Parade in November. The wide cast of characters from Dylan Thomas’s masterpiece of language, captured in a spectacular style that mirrors the text, were on display to club members and the general public for two weeks.
For Bonnie it had been a lifelong dream to illustrate these characters: “Each drawing took me many hours to produce – I was delighted to share them with a wider audience.”
Pictures by Tim Baker For more: www.bhhawkins.com | www.bathandcountyclub.com
GOOD SPORTS
More than 100 school pupils from across Bath and North East Somerset got to experience sport at the home of Olympic, Paralympic and World champions, when they took part in two fun festivals hosted by Team Bath Tribe in February at the University of Bath's Sports Training Village. Photos by Anna Barclay; www.annaweddingphotos.com For more: www.teambath.com
Richard and Melanie Krysztopic, and Cordelia Porter Ian and Anne Lacey
Nigel Pollard
Paul Scaife and Sally Barlow
Paul Burch
Bonnie Hawkins
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An invasion of the shell-less molluscs has Flats under siege, and out of pocket
Ha ing finished the renovation of our house a couple of years ago, we had become rather too comfortable with not having to lavish money on the old place. Just as some regard such buildings – with all they’ve seen – as living things with eyes and ears and hearts, I have come to regard it as indeed an object with some personality. Sadly its personality – in an accurate reflection of our o n, of course isn’t all that you might want it to be. It has charm, it has charisma, this house, but it has a dark side. And it requires attention. Much like its human and canine inhabitants, it seems to react badly to prolonged periods ithout a ection ts lo e language, if you will, appears to be that of deeds. It wants to be pampered by plasterers, purged by plumbers, built up by masons, and made dazzling by painters.
The house made its position clear in terms not uncertain. Its cry for help by means of physical objection could not have been
“Like David Bellamy crawling through the Somerset brash, I approached and located the interloper”
(slugs gotta eat!).
Fast forward a few weeks and the three quotes we got to sort this subterranean bathroom – two of whose four walls are of course backed by wet mud – were very di erent ne as uite cheap adly our brilliant builder (Guy from Camden Mews) told us what we already knew as he read out this first number his sol es ery little, and you’ll be doing it again in a year or two.” So, the bigger numbers? They were so large that my wife and I actually laughed, as if Guy had delivered a punchline. Nope, not a gag. And these, we knew, were the best possible prices, because uy couldn’t fib to a client if you paid him a million Lira.
mistaken for anything other. “There’s a bloody slug in the shower, Daddy,” came the report from a basement-dwelling teenager. Having of course warned her to mind her language, I was sent to investigate. Like David Bellamy crawling through the Somerset brash, I approached and located the interloper. And its extended family. And most of their mates. And colleagues from work.
Most people would have seen slugs in their home shower and thought: “Yuk. Slugs in my shower!” I saw slugs and thought: “Christ. This is going to be expensive. Again.”
Anyone can gather up and carry away a phlegm of slugs, but this doesn’t solve the problem beyond the end of that one ruined shower. No, my sobbing mind moved immediately to thinking of how indeed these slimeballs had penetrated our Georgian defences and managed to achieve mass ingress. igel arage ould ha e had a field day
But I didn’t blame the slugs! They were taken care of, and laid out in the garden to ruin all of that, too, which I don’t really mind
When you consider that damp will certainly get worse – by the day – until it’s dealt with, and you remember that your family actually use this space regularly, there’s ultimately not much choice. Also, while I’ve been facetious about regarding a house as a person, there is something about a place that has been here for so much longer than we have, and has survived it all while remaining beautiful and welcoming, and wanting to do the right thing by it.
These homes are, to my mind, being made less and less appealing as purchase propositions by governments and councils and trusts being altogether too protective over them, to the extent where making them anything less than excruciatingly expensive – or even impossible – to heat and run will eventually render them empty. So rather than sell up and blame the beardies, we’ve chosen to do what we can to eventually hand on the best home we can. The building deserves it. hat tiny little sho er room is no o cially the most expensive room in our house. There ill be no family trip to find some aster sun this year, but we’ve done the right thing by the glorious old girl. Somehow, though, I still feel bad for the slugs.
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
SMALL WONDERS
Big ideas for dinky spaces
By Lydia Tewkesbury
We’ve all got that one room we don’t really know how to tackle. The small room that has potential, but all too often ends up feeling cramped and cluttered. It doesn’t have to be this way. With some careful planning, clever storage and the odd optical illusion thrown in for good measure, small spaces are transformed into stylish havens with as much allure as their more sizeable counterparts. With only a few intentional tweaks, it is possible to create a small space that is purposeful, functional and full of character. Our experts share how...
architectural“Highlighting details maximises every inch of the room”
Don’t be shy about going bold in small spaces
INTERIORS
BUILT FOR SUCCESS
One of the best tips for designing small spaces? Make the most of what you have and make every piece of furniture work hard,” says interior designer Clair Strong nstead of a co ee table in your li ing space, an ottoman will give you space to store blankets, toys or magazines. ount the on a bracket to free up shelf space and fit a narro shoe storage cupboard in the hall to avoid the clutter of piles of shoes. Use floating shel es as bedside tables to ma imise floor space in a bedroom
Dual purpose furniture is a must have for styling a small space, so invest in pieces that can double up on functionality. Jess Chandler, interior designer with Susie Watson Designs recommends Kilim footstools for e actly this purpose he says, hese are hand made using traditional techniques, the Kilim adding a splash of colour to the centre of a scheme, lifts the space and is not just a place to pop up your feet. It can be used to display books, is a handy place to put down a tea tray and if you need an additional perch for guests, the comfortable upholstery is great for that too.”
eating is another simple and e en better, functional ay to open up small rooms. “Creating seating areas with storage is ideal in small or awkward spaces,” says Lisa Stone, director of No 17 Interiors t is definitely all about ma imising e ery possible area hen you are short on space and creating the illusion of a greater space in doing so. Aesthetically it is also a very smart, neat solution, and allows opportunity to get creative by adding lovely fabrics as your seat pads and cushions.”
When your home is smaller, you need to make every nook and cranny count to ma imise your creati e opportunities, ad ises interior designer Walter Ruggiero.“Unused spaces like passageways or under the stairs spaces can also become a mini gallery or a space to sho case
BELOW: Multi-use furniture is always an asset; OPPOSITE: In a small space, make sure every piece of furniture counts; OPPOSITEABOVELEFT: this clever small bedroom design by Joel Bugg creates the feeling of space; OPPOSITEABOVERIGHT: Add shelves to create depth and space
“Make every piece of furniture work hard”
DESIGN
BY CLAIR STRONG
DESIGN BY JOEL BUGG
DESIGN
personal items like art, photos, or plants. Hanging framed artwork or photos along the walls can turn a drab, functional hallway into a visual journey.”
You can even use the décor to highlight any of the architectural points of interest, as Jamie Watkins, co-founder wallpaper and fabric designers Divine Savages, explains: “Making the most of existing features is a smart way to add character and depth to a small space without cluttering it. Highlighting architectural details, such as wallpapering within panels, exposing ceiling beams and extending wallpaper onto the ceiling draws in the eye and maximises every inch of the room. Instead of working against structural elements, embracing them turns them into stand out design moments that make a small space feel rich with personality,” he says.
These so-called, ‘dead’ spaces aren’t just for decoration either, as Lisa Stone points out: “Add cupboards and shelves, particularly to ‘dead’ spaces such as under stairs, alcoves and unused corners or walls in rooms – anything to allow us to hide away our clutter! The beauty of hanging shelves high is that they can be above lower pieces of furniture but instantly provide further storage or areas to add objects of interest.”
LESS ISN’T ALWAYS MORE
When we’re working with a small space, our instincts often tell us to shrink everything to compensate. According to the experts, this is entirely the rong tactic t feels counterintuiti e, but you’re better o prioritising furniture o er floor space
“Scale is really important when furnishing small spaces,” says Emily Fletcher at The Salcombe Trading Company. “Opt to maximise your space ith o ersi ed furniture fill the gaps for bedside tables, use tall headboards or floor to ceiling curtains
It’s not just about aesthetics, but utility, too. “Choosing an oversized sofa for a small space prioritises comfort, but also considers functionality by providing more seating,” says Fred Horlock, design director at Neptune. “Our Eliza loose cover sofa has deeper proportions hich o ers space for scatter cushions and throws, and its large single seat cushion is perfect for curling up on.”
“Scale is importantreallywhen furnishing small space”
INTERIORS
The same goes for spaces like kitchens, where the temptation rises to sacrifice storage for space on’t do it, urges Charlotte Wright, design consultant at Hobson’s Choice hen designing a kitchen for a small space, e ery millimetre counts o e er, that doesn’t mean e erything should simply be made smaller after all, our dimensions remain the same, she says t obson’s hoice, they recommend maintaining a orktop depth of mm he loss of mm of usable orkspace ill be far more noticeable than a slither of e tra floor space hen you are preparing dinner, says harlotte en better, the counter space can also o er additional storage for the placement of small electrical appliances, a ro of jars, or other utensils r e en seating, points out red orlock ake the most of the corner of your kitchen by adding in ban uette seating to create a cosy dining area and take ad antage of dead space, he says on’t forget about flooring says Vanessa Garrett, founding
director of Broadleaf Timber, as it can also be utilised to create the illusion of space caling your ood flooring to your room is a great ay to isually ma imise space narro er boards in a narro space ill make it feel bigger, as ill mi ed idths of board imilarly, smaller par uet blocks ill make a space feel more generous, especially hen laid in the classic herringbone design hich ill optically iden any space and make it feel much more generous iles can be used to similar e ect, as Neil Curtis designer at Ripples e plains hoosing big, continuous tiles made from materials like porcelain, marble, or ceramic can help isually e pand a small bathroom arge tiles reduce the isual clutter caused by grout lines and create a smooth, uninterrupted surface pting for lighter coloured tiles or those ith subtle patterns can further enhance this e ect by reflecting light and making the space feel brighter and more spacious his design choice helps the room appear more e pansi e hile maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic
Lighter colours can expand a space
“Large tiles reduce the visual clutter caused by grout lines”
WHAT’S IN STORE
“Build kitchen cupboards, wardrobes and boot room storage right up to the ceiling to maximise all the available space,” says designer Clair Strong. “You can store items you don’t need to access regularly in the top cupboards a ing floor to ceiling cupboards also a oids dust traps and can be visually more elegant in a small space, compared to breaking up the wall with a shorter cupboard. Just be aware of ceiling heights and architectural details – you wouldn’t want to hide a decorative cornice, for instance.”
Bella Pullin, founder and lead designer with No 8 Design House, agrees: “When working with compact spaces, creativity is key. Every corner, wall, and even those often-overlooked areas, like stairwells, hold untapped potential ne of the most e ecti e ays to enhance both function and aesthetics is by introducing built-in storage and high-level shel ing his simple but e ecti e storage solution makes the most of the room by dra ing the eye up ards, hich has the e ect of making a room feel taller and more expansive.
Sometimes more awkward spaces call for a bespoke storage solution. Interior designer Libby Carter recommends the ‘up and over storage unit’, hich, as the name implies, can be fitted around all sorts of household obstacles like beds, alcoves and in spaces otherwise unsuitable for ground level storage. Going bespoke allows you to choose something that doesn’t sacrifice style for function, as ibby e plains “Whether opting for classic wood panelling to complement a colonialinspired interior or sleek, minimalist finishes for a contemporary feel, bespoke craftsmanship ensures that the unit seamlessly blends with its surroundings. To enhance the space further, pairing the unit with higherbacked sofas provides a sense of comfort and structure, creating a cosy yet refined atmosphere
When it comes to small kitchens however, opt for shelving over cupboards where possible, advises Joel Bugg, owner of Joel Bugg Furniture and Spaces, as they o er storage, but also the potential for decoration (think stylish Kilner jars full of dry goods, your favourite cookery books, etc). “They even open the sense of space too,” says Joel. “If you don’t have the luxury of a window to plan your kitchen sink in front of, using shelving there instead will give depth to the area.”
The ‘up and over’ bookshelves can make a room seem bigger
“Choose furniture with gentle edges and curves”
Consider
SEE THE LIGHT
When it comes to crafting a small space with the perfect balance of style and function, it’s all about the finer details he lighting, for e ample, can make or break the feel of a room
“Smaller spaces can sometimes feel compromised by the reduced opportunity for windows, and therefore for natural light,” says John Law, creative director of interiors with Woodhouse and Law e try to embrace, rather than challenge, this ndirect light, and the shado s it casts, can tend to be more subdued, more di use, creating an air of calm that light filled rooms may not naturally ha e rchitectural features ho e er can be flattened by this more subdued light and muted shado s artificial light is key therefore to best emphasise these features his should be integral to a considered lighting scheme that also o ers layered lighting, combining all, table and spotlights
lacement is ital, too, according to Georgia Metcalfe, founder and creative director of French Bedroom n smaller spaces, opt for elegant wall lighting on a dimmer rather than a low and large pendant light which will draw attention to a lower ceiling, making the room feel smaller, she says
n addition to lighting, it pays di idends to be intentional about the flo ’ of a room, eorgia e plains
’d al ays ad ise opting for sweeping silhouettes rather than angular shapes as these can make a room feel bo y nstead, choose furniture ith gentle edges and cur es which will bring a softening touch and help guide the eye around your room e ortlessly, creating a greater sense of space ur es also promote a sense of comfort, hich is perfect for creating a elcoming and rela ed atmosphere
the shape of your furniture to help with the flow of a small room
ZONING OUT
In small spaces, creative ‘zoning’ can also be used to establish more defined areas in multi use spaces Vanessa Sayce, owner of interior design and styling business The Marmalade House explains: “As the need for our homes to become ever adaptable and have a seamless balance between free and practical space grows, we look at how using a single bold colour on one wall can designate a space with simple strokes of a paintbrush urniture can be used to similar e ect, adds interior designer Lola Swift oning defines di erent areas ithin a room, allo ing it to be more adaptable ithout feeling cluttered his as crucial in a recent refurbishment of a Victorian cottage, where a narrow galley kitchen felt restricti e due to o erhead cupboards taking up aluable space ather than retaining them, we opened up the area to create a small yet inviting breakfast nook simple bar top and bench seating transformed an unused corner into a delightful spot for morning co ee, hile intage art ork and te tured fabrics added armth and character
“A single bold colour on one wall can designate a space”
Using paint is a simple way to demarcate space
MIRROR, MIRROR
Placement of mirrors is the oldest trick in the book when it comes to creating the illusion of space – and it is that way for a reason. When utilised correctly, it really works.
irrors play a crucial role in small spaces, not only by reflecting light to create a brighter, more open feel, but also by enhancing the room’s visual appeal,” says Rachel Fisher at Holloways of Ludlow Jamie of Divine Savages agrees: “Mirrors are a game-changer in small spaces, especially when paired with a bold, patterned wallpaper. trategically placing a mirror can reflect light and pattern, creating the illusion of more space while preventing the wallpaper from feeling too overwhelming. A large mirror can visually double the room’s depth, while smaller, well-placed mirrors can highlight design details and bounce light into darker corners.
“I also think opting for antique mirrors adds character, blending seamlessly with bold wallpaper while enhancing the overall aesthetic.”
“Mirrors play a crucial role in small spaces”
Never estimate the power of mirrors to visually enhance a room
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A lot of us err on the side of caution when it comes to small spaces, keeping the colours neutral, the decor simple. Forget that, says Jamie Watkins, and go maximalist instead. “Floor-to-ceiling curtains create the illusion of height, making a small space feel grander and more expansive. When paired with a luxurious, bold-patterned wallpaper, they add depth and personality, transforming even the tiniest nook into a stylish, statement-making retreat. Long, heavy fabric such as velvet softens the boldness of the wallpaper pattern, preventing it from feeling overwhelming, while also adding texture and depth to the space. If chosen in a complementary colour or a sheer material, the curtain can frame the wallpaper like a work of art. This combination makes even a small space feel opulent, layered, and thoughtfully designed,” he says. Beds can be similarly used to make a dramatic statement, says Georgia at rench edroom air a floral or toile headboard against striped wallpaper in the same colour scheme: the vertical stripe will add the
illusion of height while providing an on-trend pattern clash and keeping the colour scheme the same will avoid the space feeling too o er helming o finish, top your bed ith crisp hite sheets and add a pair of cushions in your accent colour for grounding symmetry.”
If bold brights aren’t your thing, you can still bring a pop of colour to your space by incorporating the palette of the outdoors. “Where a space does enjoy views onto a garden, we always look too to see ho e can repeat interior colours, materials and finishes ithin the outdoor space itself, says ohn a or an instant fi , a similar connection to outdoors can be achieved by bringing in cuttings from the very beds and borders over which that room looks. Or introducing houseplants that reflect the colours, te ture and tones of those plants. Introducing free-standing, plug-in uplights to backlight such houseplants is another simple but immediate way of adding further depth, interest and drama to the room.”
“Transform even the tiniest nook into a stylish, statement- making retreat”
INTERIORS
DEEP THINKERS
“Staggering the depth of your worktops is another good option as it allows you to create small shallow areas for seating or slim cupboards, you need depth for sink and appliances and if your kitchen is long and thin a staggered worktop is the perfect solution for a little breakfast bar, as galley kitchens rarely have enough width for a kitchen table,” suggests Helen Parker, Creative director of deVOL Kitchens. “If the ceilings are high then use this space too and create high storage with tall wall cupboards, they may be harder to reach but the space can be invaluable. Keep colours to a minimum and try to stick to a calm and soft colour palette to avoid things feeling busy, it’s surprising how a limited selection of colours creates a more serene and tidy feel to a room. Finally, just get rid of bulky items and things that you don’t use, as storage is tight you should make sure everything you keep is used and useful.”
“A staggered worktop is the perfect solution for a little breakfast bar”
Work your design around the view to maximise a feeling of space
THE LIST
Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home décor needs this spring
ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY SERVICES
London Road, Bath; 01225 433511; www o sons oi e om
Joel Bugg Furniture & Spaces 01225 583520; www oe o
Kelly Marie Kitchen Interiors 8 Pulteney Ave, Bath; 01225 481881; www e marie it ens om
Kutchenhaus 5 Saracen St, Bath; 01225 634025; www t en a s o / s owroom/ at
Neptune
One Tram Yard, Walcot St, Bath; 01225 465301; www.neptune.com
WALLPAPER
Divine Savages
5 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath, BA1 2LP; 0208 798 2715; www divinesava es om
WINDOWS
Mitchell and Dickinson 0117 287 2799; www mit e anddi inson o
Timber Windows of Clifton 29 The Mall, Bristol; 0845 652 7300; www tim erwindows om
Vyoo 439 Bath Road, Saltford; 01225 874676; www v oowindows om
WORKTOPS
Hobbs Marble & Granite Radstock Rd, Midsomer Norton, Norton Radstock 01761 412934; www o smar eand ranite o
Hobsons Choice
“The devil is in the details”
Chadwicks Interior Architecture & Design consultancy is based in the South West of England founded by award winning interior architect and designer Chad Evans and offers the very best in residential and commercial interior architecture & design.
Please take a look at what we can do for you and contact us with any questions about our services. We are more than happy to book an introductory meeting to discuss your project.
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■ 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
Contact
FREE TO MOVE
Kitchens that incorporate freestanding elements into their design create a character-rich and timeless environment. Discover NEPTUNE’S new freestanding pieces, crafted to complement any kitchen
The most interesting kitchens blend fitted and freestanding cabinets, combine vintage and contemporary elements and balance colour with tranquillity.
It’s an approach that harks back to the very beginnings of Neptune’s kitchen collections, when co-founder, John SimsHilditch, designed his family kitchen featuring a freestanding dresser, chopping block and potboard for his Wiltshire home. It was this versatile, English country-style kitchen that went on to inspire the Chichester collection, which began with similar freestanding pieces, complemented with individually built cabinets.
Now, with nearly 20 years’ experience in designing and crafting solid timber kitchens, Neptune has returned to those roots, reimagining and refining traditional standalone designs. The result is a collection of freestanding furniture which integrates effortlessly with fitted kitchens, offering not only timeless style but also the freedom to move – either around the kitchen or with you from home to home. Whether it’s a neat butcher’s block maximising space in a Shakerstyle fitted Suffolk kitchen or an exposed oak Henley design that balances freestanding and built-in elements, the possibilities for flexible, beautiful kitchens are endless.
Meet the new freestanding heroes...
BOURTON ISLAND
This freestanding, marble-topped island makes a great centerpiece for those who don’t have the floor space for a more permanent statement island. Crafted from natural oak, and gently softened at each corner, its sleek, slimline design allows for effortless versatility, seamlessly adapting to the style and flow of any kitchen. Complete the look by tucking a pair of the new Tilbury’s woven bar stools underneath.
BOURTON CHOPPING BLOCK
The traditional yet refined Bourton chopping block is perfectly proportioned to add extra work surface at the end of a row of cabinetry or serve as a mini-island in a smaller kitchen. Its robust, end-grain oak surface allows you to treat it as a functional chopping board, creating a lived-in look that will enhance its enduring appeal.
SUFFOLK DOUBLE LARDER
Previously only available as part of a fitted kitchen, the Suffolk double larder is now available for the first time as a standalone design. Thanks to its pared-back, Shaker-inspired aesthetic, the cavernous, freestanding Suffolk larder will fit seamlessly into any kitchen style, showcasing quality craftsmanship and the enduring beauty of solid wood. With deep drawers, useful door racks and flexible shelving, it is a beautifully functional design, built to last a lifetime.
MEET DESIGN SEVEN
A new interior design studio based in Bristol
In the ever-evolving world of interior design, fresh talent and innovative approaches keep the industry moving forward. Enter Design Seven, a dynamic new studio based in Wick, Bristol, bringing over 30 years of combined experience to the table. With a professional yet refreshingly friendly team, Design Seven is making waves in both residential interiors and showhome design.
DESIGNING WITH HEART AND VISION
There’s something special about a new studio that moves with the confidence of an established firm. Design Seven doesn’t just design interiors –it creates spaces that transform how you feel the moment you walk in. From homes that reflect your personality to show homes that captivate buyers, its approach blends creativity with meticulous attention to detail.
“Great design isn’t just about how a space looks – it’s about how it makes you feel,” says the team at Design Seven. “Our goal is to craft interiors that are both visually stunning and perfectly suited to real life.”
WHAT MAKES DESIGN SEVEN DIFFERENT?
Design Seven balances timeless elegance with fresh innovation. Their residential work is deeply personal, ensuring your home reflects you – not just trends. With extensive showhome experience, they know how to make any space
feel instantly inviting. What sets them apart is their warm, collaborative approach. Whether working with developers, estate agents or homeowners, they listen first – then transform those conversations into spaces where every detail feels just right.
INTERIORS THAT EVOLVE WITH YOU: INSIGHTS FROM PAUL, CREATIVE DIRECTOR
“The way we live is always evolving, and great design evolves with us,” says Paul. “Today, people want more than beauty – they want homes that support wellbeing, reflect who the owners are, and adapt to change. What excites me most is how we’re blending sustainability with smart solutions, from eco-friendly materials to technology that enhances daily life.
“At Design Seven, we welcome these possibilities. Whether it’s bringing nature indoors, designing multifunctional spaces or creating interiors that feel both current and timeless, our passion is making homes you love coming back to.”
A COMPLETE INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE
From the first conversation, Design Seven stands out. With fresh ideas, a focus on sustainability, and a keen eye for emerging trends, it designs spaces that enhance everyday life. Combining expertise with a warm, down-to-earth approach, Design Seven isn’t just a name to know – it’s a team you can trust.
“ DESIGN SEVEN DOESN’T JUST DESIGN INTERIORS – IT CREATES SPACES THAT TRANSFORM HOW YOU FEEL THE MOMENT YOU WALK IN ”
Want to chat about your space? Give us a call at 01174 506 707 – we’d love to hear from you!
“Responsive, intelligent, flexible and supportive.”
“Rich is always available, with a confident manner and is well informed in current issues, it was a relief to have him on board.”
www.rtstudios.co.uk
If you are planning a full interior redesign or simply updating your space with new furnishings such as curtains, blinds, headboards or re upholstery, No.17 Interiors can help. Our interiors service tailors designs to suit every brief and budget. Find out more: 07977 271 503 | lisa@no17interiors.co.uk www.no17interiors.co.uk
& Homewares | Prints, Cards & Gifts
Sustainable & Handmade Homewares and Gifts
SHOW HOMES
Specialist furniture painting, interior styling, full day courses and bespoke homewares.
THE ARTS
SNAPSHOTS OF BATH’S CULTURAL LIFE
NEW TALENT
The new Beaux Arts exhibition, which opens on 5 April and ends 5 May, celebrates the work of artist Katherine Jackson, whose self portrait is seen here. She is a young Somerset painter who trained at Falmouth and whose bio tells us she “values observational painting as an intimate means of giving attention to her surroundings and hopes to produce images which recreate the quiet absorption she experiences while making.”
Also on display are a selection of established artists that Katherine admires including Jennifer McRae, Mark Entwisle, Charlotte Sorapure and Saeid Dai.
For more: Beaux Arts, 12 – 13 York Street, Bath; www.beauxartsbath.co.uk
WHAT’S ON
29 March –26 April
EXHIBITIONS
Until 27 April
AN UNCOMMON THREAD
This current Hauser & Wirth
Somerset collection features ten contemporary artists – Rachael ouise ailey, a oyla, 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 3 May
JONATHAN MICHAEL RAY: FIELD WORK
An exhibition about a distinct moment in time in Jonathan
Michael Ray’s life spent on an archaeological dig in Orkney. The discoveries he made there have led to a body of work rooted to the culture of its unique landscapes, history, folklore, poetry, art and music. These newly conceived works, including wall-based sculpture, assemblage, drawing, and photography are brought together here for the first time Bo Lee and Workman; www.boleeworkman.com
Until 5 May
ICONIC: PORTRAITURE FROM FRANCIS BACON TO ANDY WARHOL
Featuring major names of 20th-century art, including Francis Bacon, Peter Blake, Pauline Boty, Richard Hamilton, Gerhard Richter, and Andy Warhol, this exhibition brings rarely-seen works together to explore how artists used photography as both a source and subject matter. www.holburne.org
Until 9 May FUSION 2025
A creative collaboration between Bath Spa University (BSU) and the RUH, the exhibition Fusion 2025, on display in the Central Corridor, showcases a wide range of work including paintings, prints, textiles
and ceramics from Bath pa students, sta and alumni www.artatruh.org
Until 26 May
DIEDRICK BRACKENS: WOVEN STORIES
n his first e hibition in the , the Texan weaver threads political and personal themes into large scale vibrant tapestries that merge technical skills and influences including West African weaving, quilting from the American South and European tapestrymaking, with rich, nuanced visions of African American life and identity, while also alluding to the complicated histories of labour and migration. Holburne; ww.holburne.org
Until 15 June
THE BOTANICAL WORLD OF MARY DELANY AND GEORGIE HOPTON
The Gallery at No.1 Royal Crescent presents a unique, collaborative project curated by Ingrid Swenson, which focuses on the work of two women, Mary Delany (1700–1788) and Georgie Hopton (1967–). Connecting these two artists across the centuries is their shared passion for and knowledge of plants and specifically flo ers onnecting
Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) most definitely comes to Theatre Royal Bath 14 – 19 April
these two artists is their shared passion for and knowledge of plants and specifically flo ers, e plored with their creative skill and ability for exquisite handcrafting. www. no1royalcrescent.org.uk
Until 22 June MYTHS AND MEMORIES: RENAISSANCE MAPS
The American Museum & Gardens presents one of the finest collections of Renaissance maps in the world. 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, By reframing the way the maps have historically been shown, the viewer considers how the world was once perceived. www.americanmuseum.org
13 April / 11 May
BATH CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS FAIR
Bringing the best of contemporary and innovative art to Green Park Station, this monthly fair which runs from April until December, has showcased more than 500 artists, many of them local, since being founded in 2020, including photographers, painters, sculptors, and ceramicists. www.bcaf.co.uk
THEATRE / CINEMA
Until 12 April
ALFRED HITCHCOCK PRESENTS – THE MUSICAL
A stellar cast including Scarlett Strallen, Sally Ann Triplett (see overleaf for Sally’s Culture Club picks), Nicola Hughes, Gary Milner, and Damian Humbley tell extraordinary interwoven tales of betrayal, blackmail and homicide in the style of Alfred Hitchcock in this Theatre Royal Bath world première. www.theatreroyal.org.uk
14 – 15 April
CABIN FEVER
Fresh !nk Theatre Company a two-person show set 30,000 feet above the Atlantic in economy class. t’s unforgettable flight as e meet disruptive passengers, the cockpit pilots and bickering cabin crew. Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
14 – 19 April
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE* (*SORT OF)
Direct from its triumph in the West End where it won the Olivier Award for Best Comedy and the Evening Standard Award, this is the unique and audacious retelling of Jane Austen’s classic love story coupled with pop classics including Young Hearts Run Free, Will You Love Me Tomorrow and You’re So Vain. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
MUSIC
3 April
MADAME BUTTERFLY
Senbla presents Opera International’s award-winning Ellen Kent Production featuring the Ukrainian Opera & Ballet Theatre
FROMTOPLEFT: On 17 April
Bath Forum hosts the legend that is Anatascia; photographer Paul Grand is just one of the creatives who makes up the Bath Contemporary Artists Fair returning 13 April; the Puccini classic Madame Butterfly comes to Bath on 3 April; peruse Renaissance maps at the American Museum
Kyiv, with soloists, highly-praised chorus and full orchestra performing the Puccini classic at Bath Forum www.bathforum.co.uk
11 April
IYATRAQUARTET
Alt-folk band, iyatraQuartet, make original music rooted in ancient melodies and folk tales. Taking their name after the Hindi word for travel or pilgrimage, the band embraces this sense of journey through place and time in their music. The Living Room, Upstairs at The Grapes; www.thegrapesbath.co.uk
17 April
ANASTACIA
Anastacia’s Not That Kind tour marks an incredible 25 years since the release of her phenomenal debut album of the same name, which went to 20 in nice countries and also featured the smash hit I’m Outta Love Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk
COMEDY
Every Friday and Saturday
KROWD KEEPERS
The Ale House on York Street has a secret room where some of the orld’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 ne talent filling the bill and filling enues across the city including Markus Birdman (Rondo on 4 April); Bobby Davro (8 April at Upstairs @BathPizzaCo); Maisie Adam (Guildhall on 19
April), and Rich Hall (Komedia on 16 April). There’s also the new act competitions at the Nowhere bar starting 31 March, and look out for the Roman panto at the Roman Baths on 9 April. www.bathcomedy.com
9 April
DANIEL SINCLAIR: COMEDY HYPNOSIS SHOW
Prepare for a night of wonder and comedy as one of the UK’s top hypnotists and renowned mentalist brings you an unmissable show of breaking rules and blowing minds. Rondo: www.rondotheatre.co.uk
CHILDREN
4 - 6 April
MACBETH
Box Clever bring a physically and emotionally charged production that’ll have parents with GCSEaged children cheering (iykyk). 12+. The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
15 - 16 April
SPACE ODDITY
An intergalactic, glam rock adventure performed by Theatre Royal Bath Theatre School that reflects on messages to humanity 5+. The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
21 April
BASIL BRUSH FAMILY SHOW
As part of the Bath Comedy Festival, the fantastic fox conjures up a show full of magic, storytelling and ‘boom-boom’ jokes. Komedia; www.komediabath.co.uk
OTHER
5 April – 27 September
AUSTENS AT THE ABBEY
Explore the many fascinating connections the Austen family has to Bath Abbey through a programme of events that includes after hour tours and a Regency church service. www.bathabbey.org
Jonathan Michael Ray’s Field Work exhibition can be seen at Bo Lee and Workman until 3 May
BY
CULTURE CLUB with Sally Ann Triplett
West End and Broadway star Sally Ann Triplett can be seen in the world première stage production of Alfred Hitchcock Presents – The Musical alongside Liam Tamne and Alistair Brammer at the Theatre Royal Bath until 12 April.
A film I could watch over and over again
All About Eve. I’ve watched this film for the last 50 years and I’m trying to bring a bit of Thelma Ritter (Bette Davis’s maid) into the show with me.
Best TV show ever Friends or The Good Life. Both have fantastic ensemble acting.
My favourite binge watch House of Cards is the ultimate TV series for me. I can re-watch it and always find something new in it.
The book that changed my life A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara. It’s very long and very harrowing, but totally worth it.
The book I could happily re-read Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier always reminds me of watching the old films with my mum.
A painting I love Flaming June by Lord Frederic Leighton. I own a sketch of it.
Last live music gig I went to Ben Böhmer at Alexandra Palace (with guest singer Max Milner –my son). Ben is an amazing talent but, of course, the highlight was my son.
My desert island disc Lose Yourself by Eminem– it’s the best pick me up EVER!
The first song I remember hearing
If I had a Golden Umbrella by Alma Cogan. My mum always sang this song to me.
My karaoke go-to Islands in the Stream (with my son Max) and Hold On (with my daughter Grace). Any chance to sing with the kids.
Podcast pick
I love The Daily by the New York Times. It is so informative and, although it’s American, it has a steady, clear delivery.
For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk
Sally Ann Triplett in rehearsal for Alfred Hitchcock Presents The Musical
PHOTO
MANUEL HARLAN
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
THE REEL THING ELLIE HENDRICKS
BY
The Little springs into action this spring with penguin lessons, Trojan wars and an Oscar winning Latvian animation
La Cocina
Release date 28 March
Step into the kitchen and experience the chaos of a New York restaurant, in Alonzo Ruizpalacios’ La Cocina.
Filmed in stunning black and white, this tense and stylish feature is a trip into the world of fine dining, focusing on the chefs, aiters and aitresses that fight an uphill battle to keep things running smoothly. Raúl Briones, Rooney Mara, Anna Díaz and Laura Gómez star as a chaotic cast of workers, all just trying to get through a shift he film is a boiling saucepan of emotions waiting to explode in the kitchen, inviting obvious comparisons to hit TV shows The Bear and Boiling Point
La Cocina is a stunning, stress-inducing look behind the curtain of New York hospitality, grab a seat and dig in.
Flow
Release date 4 April
The surprise (and very well-deserved) winner of the Best Animated Feature Academy Award, Flow is a visually stunning trek through the natural orld and marks the first e er scar win from Latvia.
An independent black cat lives a comfortable
life in an abandoned house, deep in the heart of a forest hen a catastrophic flood rushes do n the valley, the cat’s world is turned upside down and he uickly finds that solitude and sur i al are not compatible. Joined by a wealth of other animals, we see the cat learn, grow and adapt to a strange new existence.
Beautifully ‘illustrated’ and full to the brim with heart and wonder, Flow is an animation like no other. Be prepared to get swept away.
The
Return
Release date 11 April
Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche star in this epic historical drama, bringing new life to an ancient tale.
dysseus alph iennes has been a ay from home for two decades, having left his ife and child in thaca to go and fight in the rojan ar fter a perilous trip back, he finds that nothing is as he left it and that those he loves are in incredible danger. This new release from director Uberto Pasolini (Nowhere Special, Still Life) is a haunting and gritty tale of a man returning home to an upturned world.
Fiennes is incredible as a battle-scarred and sunburned soldier, starring opposite a phenomenal Juliette Binoche as Penelope. This
familiar story has been completely revitalised and with legendary actors playing characters of legend, this is one to watch.
The Penguin Lessons
Release date 18 April
Set in a troubled period of Argentina’s history, the unlikely rescue of a penguin changes one classroom’s life forever…
It’s Buenos Aires in 1976 and English teacher Tom (Steve Coogan) has joined a new school. Reserved and insular, Tom has little interest in the wider world. That is, until the accidental rescue of a penguin and a new role as the bird’s unwilling protector.
Charming and comedic, The Penguin Lessons is based on the incredible true story by Tom Michell. Directed by Peter Cattaneo (The Full Monty, Military Wives), this is the heart-warming story of how one small act (and one small penguin) can have massive consequences.
Ellie Hendricks is the Little Theatre Cinema’s marketing manager. The Little Theatre Cinema, 1–2 St Michael’s Place, Bath; www.picturehouses.co.uk
CLOCKWISEFROMTOP: The Penguin Lessons stars Steve Coogan and a penguin; the Oscar-winning animation Flow; the fast paced La Cocina is filmed in black and white; Ralph Fiennes takes on the role of Odysseus in The Return
PHOTO
LUCIA FARAIG
RAISED VOICES ARE RAISING SPIRITS
VOICES FOR LIFE Bath Children’s Choir offers a space where every child can find their voice
For many of us, music is so integral a part of our daily lives that we take it for granted. Yet from school-run radio singalongs to those catchy ad jingles we just can’t get out of our heads, it’s clear that music is everywhere.
Local charity Voices for Life helps children discover the joy of music for themselves. Whether the team are leading in-school singing workshops with impressive final performances, or coaching the Bath Children’s Choir, they’re on a mission to make sure every child can find their voice.
The Voices for Life Bath Children’s Choir offers primary school aged children between the ages of 6 – 11 the chance to sing every Saturday morning in the Bath Abbey Song School, 9.30am to 10.45am (term time). Not only is it a wonderful opportunity to develop their musical skills, but also a fun way to make new friends!
Willow (aged 9), a Bath Children’s Choir member says, “I am always excited when we are doing the shows and when I look back at the photos or tell people what I have done, I am really proud. I love singing”.
Recent appearances included chorus-singing at the charity’s January Stardust concert (Jools Scott and Sue Curtis), and performing at the Friends of Oleksandriya’s Together We Stand concert, Bath Abbey.
Now, a fresh season of song comes with the start of spring, as the choir prepares to perform a brand-new Voices for Life commission at Bath Festival’s Party in the City on the 16 May.
It’s an inclusive, friendly choir with no audition or prior musical experience needed. Both children who have been involved with Voices for Life’s projects previously and those new to Voices For Life are welcome!
Parents are invited to book a free taster session for their child via the QR code. For more information on Voices for Life, visit: www.voicesforlife.org.uk
Our team of valuers will be on hand from 10am to 3pm at our purpose built auction rooms in Bathford for complimentary valuations and auction advice. Lots of parking, tea & coffee available with the team offering valuations, auction advice, and of course accepting entries into our winter and spring calendar of specialist sales.
● Prompt and free home visits and appraisals giving professional advice in all aspects
● Full collection service available –comprehensive and total house clearance work undertaken
● Global market exposure – every lot published at auctioneum.co.uk and saleroom.com
● Probate Services – one or more of our experienced valuers will visit and carry out an appraisal – whether the contents of a small terraced house, or a large country estate.
PILATES WITH A PULSE
SUNDAY STUDIO is your home for contemporary and dynamic Pilates
Welcome to Sunday Studio, a fresh, contemporary Pilates space nestled along the riverside in the heart of Bath. At Sunday Studio, every class, event, and interaction is all about moving, connecting and feeling empowered to be the best version of yourself.
Step inside, and you’ll find a beautifully bright, airy space filled with warm, glowing touches that make every session feel like a little retreat. Whether you’re here to challenge yourself or simply move and breathe, our studio is designed to be the most welcoming and encouraging place to do it.
Sunday Studio was founded by ily, a lifelong movement lover with a passion for making Pilates accessible, dynamic, and fun. Her vision? To create a space where people feel strong, supported, and truly part of something special. Rooted in deep belief in the power of movement to transform both body and mind, ily has shaped the studio into more than ust a workout spot, it’s a community where everyone is encouraged to show up exactly as they are and move in a way that feels amazing. Think low impact maximum results. You will walk about feeling stronger, brighter, and totally uplifted.
CLASSES THAT CELEBRATE MOVEMENT
At Sunday Studio, we offer a diverse range of classes to suit all levels and goals, with sessions
available seven days a week, starting as early as 6am and continuing into the evening. With five state of the art reformer machines, our intimate class sizes ensure you receive personalised guidance in a supportive, fun atmosphere. Our classes come in two main styles:
Mat classes: Sculpt, Spice, Strength, Sweat, Slow Each mat session is carefully crafted to help you build core strength, enhance flexibility, and improve balance. Whether you’re in the mood for a gentle, flowing session or the invigorating burn of a high-energy workout, our mat classes are here to help you shine and feel your best.
Reformer classes: Form, Flow, Fire
Our reformer sessions add a dynamic twist to your routine. Using our advanced equipment, you’ll refine your technique, enjoy the benefits of resistance training, and have fun while challenging yourself in small groups that offer all the personal attention you need.
“ IT’S A COMMUNITY WHERE EVERYONE IS ENCOURAGED TO SHOW UP EXACTLY AS THEY ARE AND MOVE IN A WAY THAT FEELS AMAZING.”
FLEXIBLE MEMBERSHIPS & DROP-IN BUNDLES
We believe in empowering you to design a routine that fits your lifestyle. That’s why we offer flexible monthly memberships or drop-in bundles giving you the freedom to choose unlimited access to our mat sessions, dedicated reformer classes, or a hybrid option combining both (unlimited mat classes with four reformer sessions per month).
But Sunday Studio is more than just classes, it’s a community. We’re all about connecting over post class coffee catch ups and sharing those feel good moments that make every workout a little celebration of life.
At Sunday Studio, every session is a warm invitation to join a journey toward wellness. So, come on over and experience the transformative power of community, radiant energy, and pure empowerment. Come and oin ily and the team for a class soon – we can’t wait to welcome you!
Sunday Studio Pilates, 1 Western Terrace, Victoria Bridge Road, Bath BA2 3FQ hello@sundaystudiopilates.com www.sundaystudiopilates.com
The VOW FACTOR
15 little ways to give your big day that extra ‘wow’
By Lydia Tewkesbury
Bath’s wedding experts demonstrate how a little extra attention-to-detail can go a long way towards creating those gaspinducing moments that the happy couple and guests alike will cherish forever. It’s called the ‘big day’ for a reason – here’s how to make the most of it.
BLANK CANVAS
Brides should consider more than just their make-up when it comes to their wedding day look, says Lizzie Crew, facialist at The Sculptural Face. “As an advanced facialist, I believe wedding skin is all about confidence and there are some often o erlooked ays to enhance your skin confidence and elevate your big day,” says Lizzie. “Plan ahead! You really want to plan regular facials, treatments or peels at least six months out from the big day. This will give you time to see the results you want and for your skin to settle into its new routine. Avoid making any sudden changes to your skin care or adding any more invasive treatments too close to the big day.”
According to Lizzie, a little investment in your skincare isn’t just about your looks: “It’s about being your best, most confident you on your wedding day.”
COLOUR VISION
“Colour has a way of telling a story– a quiet whisper of romance, a bold statement of joy, or a warm embrace of celebration,” advises luxury wedding planner and bohemian bridal specialist Jaymie Koo-Ven of Brides of Bohemia. “When it comes to your wedding, the right palette in the decorations and accessories can transform the day into a sensory journey, reflecting your love and spirit. By weaving rich, meaningful hues into your celebration, you create an atmosphere where every shade carries a memory waiting to unfold.”
age greens might o er a soft, grounding feel in contrast ith shades of plum, hich can add richness and drama ean hile rose o ers a blush of armth and a ection, and gold a shimmer of light, celebration and possibility. “Think about what works for you and the colours you think make the perfect marriage,” continues Jaymie. “Embrace their beauty, utilise them, and let your wedding day become a vibrant, colourful, reflection of your life together
SURPRISE THE BRIDE
“One of the most heart-warming ‘wow factors’ I’ve seen is when the groom surprises the bride with a gift of bridal jewellery on the morning of the wedding,” says Charlie Dalton-Ball with S.P. Green jewellers. “Whether it’s a delicate necklace, sparkling earrings, or a bracelet, this thoughtful gesture adds an extra layer of magic to the day and creates a memory the bride will cherish forever.”
Wedding jewellery is often overlooked in favour of dresses and rings, but according to Charlie, this is a mistake. “The right piece of jewellery can elevate the bride’s entire look,” he says. “Also heirloom pieces, like a strand of pearls or a pair of diamond studs, are a beautiful way to incorporate a ‘something borrowed’ tradition into the day.”
The backdrop in our own hometown of Bath can be picture perfect advises BPT’s Mary Stringer; INSET: Lizzie Crew suggests planning your facials for that wedding day glow
WEDDINGS
RING THE CHANGES
A wedding ring is a symbol of your love, so why not make it as unique as you are and opt for a bespoke design? “This exclusivity adds an extra layer of luxury and pride in knowing your ring is completely unique,” says Carly Cooke, brand manager at Wylde Jewellers. Customising a wedding ring also ensures that it holds deep emotional significance “You can incorporate meaningful symbols, dates, or elements that are special to you and your partner, making the ring more personal than an o the shelf option.
Working with a skilled jeweller gives you the chance to explore creative possibilities, whether it’s combining traditional styles with modern trends or experimenting with di erent aesthetics ou’re not limited by con entional choices or styles hese highly personal, one o items ill become true family heirlooms to pass on to generations to come.”
“Couples can either have matching rings or express their unique di erences and still maintain harmony, says Jody Cory, owner of Jody Cory Goldsmiths. “I think the rings are such an important component in the wedding as they symbolise the couple’s new chapter in their lives, and the tradition of e changing the rings that truly reflects the love the couple has for one another.
“The rings can be as individual as the couple are. Personal touches such as engraving or secretly set stones on the inside can be a personal touch.”
“Great
photographs need spectacular backdrops”
LEFT: Ring stack by Jody Cory; INSET: Bands by Wylde Jewellers; BELOW: Hamswell House provides a beautiful backdrop
PHOTO BY BETTY BHANDARI;
KISS AND MAKE UP
Ditch the pressure to go maximal with your wedding make-up advises make-up and hair stylist Soaf Wyatt. “I think there is a common misconception that wedding make-up needs to be thick and heavy. On the contrary, most of my brides come to me saying they don’t wear make-up on a daily basis, and so they are unsure what suits them and would prefer a softer and more natural look.”
Even when going for a natural look, if you want the best for your big day, it’s still worth turning to a professional. “Make-up artists have had training in not only face shapes and tones, but also how to ork ith di erent lighting conditions, so e can ensure your make-up not only suits you but complements your best features in all your photos too,” says Soaf.
STRIKE A POSE
some time considering how you want to sho o your nearest and dearest in the photos. “One of the most popular photo requests by far are Vanity Fairstyle bridal party group pictures,” wedding photographer Betty Bhandari. “You may have seen group portraits of famous actors taken by the likes of Annie Leibovitz. In these group portraits they position each person uniquely and in a way that complements the overall composure of the group. It’s the polar opposite of a group picture where people stand next to each other like the sardines in the tin. They are creative, unique and a fantastic way to celebrate the unique bond between the bride and groom, and their groomsmen and bridesmaids.”
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
When you’re chatting with your photographer ahead of the big day, prioritise planning those ‘wow’ moments you’ll really want to capture forever. And remember – it’s not just about the happy couple. Spend
“Great photographs need spectacular backdrops, so choose a venue with lovely gardens and fabulous views,” says Rupert Legge, owner of Hamswell House. “If the venue has a lovely garden, you have the added bonus of not ha ing to spend so much on flo ers as you are already surrounded by them.”
ABOVE: Go for informal group shots advises photographer Betty Bhandari; INSET: Soaf Wyatt’s advice is to keep make-up soft and natural
WEDDINGS
Opting to take the wedding outside doesn’t mean you need to be confined by the seasons either, according to Victoria Gray the registration officer and marketing lead at Bath Registration Service, outdoor eddings can be enjoyed year round ummer has al ays been the busiest time of year for eddings, but often the splendour of other seasons can be o erlooked he colours of autumn pro ide a spectacular backdrop, the joy of spring is enchanting, and the magic of inter is second to none ith so many beautiful parks and gardens in ath, couples are spoilt for choice
SLICE OF LIFE
first got into edding cakes hen my o n edding cake turned up made by a family friend and it as bright orange rather than the re uested pale coral, reflects Sarah Hayes, owner of So Delicious Cakes e laughed, it tasted di ine and it asn’t a big deal at the time o e er, many guests told me should ha e made my o n cake he e perience inspired arah to start her o n business, and these days she urges couples to a oid her o n mistakes edding cakes are often an o erlooked part of the day, but they play a key role in the ceremony ith the cutting of the cake he trend of the type of edding cakes has changed drastically o er the years, but the traditional cutting has al ays remained the same, and is a big picture moment o hether you’re after a traditional crisp hite a air, or something a bit more uni ue ith bright colours, te tures and shimmering metallics ot’s all possible but just make sure you plan ahead
PRESSING MATTERS
eing a edding florist, kno ho important flo ers are to enhance the style of a edding day, says Michelle Stephens, owner of The Full Press Studio hich specialises in edding flo er preser ation hrough the traditional art of pressing, these sentimental blooms can
“The right piece of jewellery can elevate the bride’s entire look”
be preser ed fore er personally collect the flo ers after the edding, meticulously arrange them in one of my many presses, and then regularly check the flo ers to ensure the best results nce the flo ers are pressed, it’s time to design in collaboration ith the bride hether that’s a large statement frame or smaller keepsakes for the family t’s about sho casing the delicate, e erlasting beauty of those flo ers that ere part of the special day to keep those memories ali e and bring joy for years to come
PICTURE THIS
y best piece of ad ice is to choose your photographer ith care, says Jen Edmondson, regional marketing manager with the Bath Spa Hotel t might sound ob ious, but remember the edding lasts for one day, your photos last fore er pend some time researching the kinds of photos you like, and make sure you ha e a con ersation ith your photographer beforehand to make sure you share a ision for documenting your big day en says, ake the time to choose a photographer that you ha e a good rapport ith and that you trust emember they’ll be ith you throughout the hole day gree on hat you’re looking for in ad ance so they can meet your e pectations
HEAVY METAL
hoosing an uncon entional metal for your edding ring is a great ay to add some o ’ factor to your day director of Ti2 Titanium Jewellery Studio recommends titanium for a modern look ts sleek and contemporary appearance adds a touch of uni ueness to your edding ring, allo ing you to stand out with a sophisticated and stylish symbol of your lo e,
ABOVE: Choose your photographer with care says Jen Edmondson of Bath Spa Hotel;
INSET: Press your bouquet as a keepsake advises Michelle Stephens, owner of The Full Press Studio
she says. “Furthermore, titanium can be combined with other metals or embellished with gemstones to create stunning designs that suit indi idual preferences lus, she notes, titanium has the added benefits of durability (we want it to last forever!), it’s better for sensitive skin (it’s hypoallergenic and biocompatible) and budget friendly.
BUBBLES DARLING
Hayley Jack owner of The Box a mobile champagne and sparkling wine bar emphasises the importance of meeting your suppliers. She says belie e that the fact finding stage is actually one of the most important jobs of a wedding supplier. I often encourage couples to meet me, should geography be on our side, as although I’m only providing the bar service, it’s really crucial that they buy into me, so they can trust me to look after their guests on the day. In addition, I make sure I have regular catch ups and conversations, very much emphasising the point that things can evolve over the process, instead of having to set things in stone from the start.”
MAKE AN ENTRANCE
“Many brides focus on the altar but forget about their arrival,” says Tereza Junkova, marketing coordinator at Hartham Park Estate. raming the aisle ith a intage door or floral arch creates a whimsical welcome, while aisle markers like candles, petals, or chair décor add charm. A personalised aisle runner can make the walk even more special.”
And make sure you don’t neglect the iconic confetti moment. “There are more options than ever when picking confetti, and what you choose can make a big di erence on the day, says
“Biodegradable white tissue paper catches the wind”
ictoria of ath egistration ce iodegradable hite tissue paper catches the ind creating a magical inds ept e ect oloured confetti ties in with a colour scheme beautifully and showcases your personality. ried flo ers create that delicate botanical flutter t is easy to lea e the confetti to the last minute, but it is worth researching which style ill create the perfect, magic moment as you take your first steps as a married couple.”
CHILD’S PLAY
Whether for your own brood or for your guests’, invest in wedding childcare if you can. “Weddings are a day of joy and celebration, but for parents with young children, they can also be stressful,” says Isabelle Passafaro, owner of Pitch Up and Play. “Managing little ones while trying to enjoy the day is a common concern, especially during important moments like the ceremony, speeches, and first dance ompanies such as itch and lay o er checked nannies so children are entertained and cared for while the grown ups enjoy the festivities.
SHINE ON
Not many people consider the state of their engagement rings before the big day, but Christina Oswin of Christina Oswin Jewellery recommends a professional cleaning service to get it looking shiny and new again for the photos. “We always clean the engagement ring before the wedding, to go next to their shiny ne bespoke fitted edding ring nd e ha e a cleaning service for any heirloom or ‘borrowed’ jewellery items you might want to wear on the day.”
LEFT: The Box brings champagne to the party; RIGHT: Bath Registration Services offers all size wedding services at the Guildhall
PHOTO
WEDDINGS
LOOKING BACK
Nothing ups the special vibes like an historic venue. Fortunately in Bath, you can’t shake a stick without hitting a building with some serious heritage. “Many of the couples we meet with have a passion for history and heritage, and, of course, the Royal Crescent is one of the most iconic historic buildings in the country,” says Mary Stringer, marketing and communications manager with the Bath Preservation Trust, which operates historic house museum No.1 Royal Crescent. “Often people tell us that, having stepped onto the Crescent and taken it in as a whole, it really takes their breath away. We love being able to take that ‘wow’ moment and build their special day around it.”
Bath Preservation Trust also operates Beckford’s Tower, a breathtaking option outside of Bath where couples can exchange vows at the very top of the tower, with sweeping views across the countryside, and afterwards take photos on its dramatic pink spiral staircase. Even better, revenue from weddings is directly reinvested back into the Tower’s museum, which seeks to educate visitors about Beckford’s life, including the source of his wealth from the transatlantic slave trade.
“Wedding cakes play a big part of the day ”
THE LOVE MATCH DIRECTORY
Bath Registration Service, The Guildhall, High Street, Bath; www.bathnes.gov.uk
Bath Spa Hotel, Sydney Road, Bathwick, Bath; www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk
The spiral staircase of Beckford Tower offers unique photo opps
LEFTTORIGHT: Brides of Bohemia; Pitch Up and Play; Hartham Park Estate; SO Delicious Cakes
SHOPPING
LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER
TAKES THE BISCUIT
A sweet treat for wedding guests to take home is always going to be a winner, and we’re slightly in love with these hand piped, iced white dress and tuxedo suit biscuits made from a small domestic kitchen in Bath.
lfie nd e iscuits as created by nnie cott in and named after her premature son. Following his birth, Annie left the corporate world and moved to here to follow her dream, devote time to her family, and find a slo er pace of life and enjoy all that this beautiful city has to o er Here’s to Annie’s continued happy ever after!
Prices start at £3.10 per biscuit and of course, as a small business, Annie needs as much noti e as ossi e www a eandme is its om
BUTTERFLYBOM SEEDBOM, £4.50
A seed bomb made in nearby Bristol containing a nectar-rich ildflo er seed mi lo ed by butterflies as ell as other pollinating insects. From Kabloom; www.kabloom.co.uk
DO US A FAVOUR
A ROMAN BATHS FRIDGE MAGNET, £4
A perfect gift to friends to remind them of your big day and our beautiful city every time they open the fridge!
From The Bath Art Shop; www.thebathartshop.co.uk
Be imaginative with little gifts for your guests with these locally sourced, and reasonably priced, wedding favour suggestions
MINI HEART GLOSSY CERAMIC TRINKET DISH, £2.95
A mini heart-shaped ceramic dish by e ondon adds to a touch of lo e to any table setting.
From Honey on The Hill, 30 Catherine Hill, Frome; www.honeyonthehill.co.uk
ST EVAL GRAPEFRUIT AND LIME T-LIGHT PACK, NINE FOR £9.60
A delightful citrus blend of uplifting grapefruit and freshly squeezed zesty lime poured at the St Eval factory on the North Coast of Cornwall. From Paprika, 8d Chelsea Road, Bath; www.paprikagifts.co.uk
ZEUS HANDMADE COLD PRESSED SOAP BY PLANTY KATE, £7.50
A locally made white clay soap with peppermint essential oil to soothe, lavandin essential oils help relieve muscles, and rosemary to refresh and tone the skin.
From Leak, 3 Larkhall Square, Bath; www.leakgifts.co.uk
HOPPED RHUBARB GIN BY THE BATH GIN COMPANY, 50ML FOR £6.75
The second addition to the Bath Distillery range, this hopped rhubarb gin is made through an infusion of locally sourced rhubarb and hole hop flo ers
From The Bath Gin Company, 2 - 3 Queen Street, Bath; www.thebathgincompany.co.uk
LAVENDER BALM BY GOOD HEALTH STUDIO, £5
ENAMEL FLAT FLOWER CANDLE HOLDER, £4.95
Cast metal candle holder with pale pink enamel finish, ith a pan shaped like a flo er to catch dripping a From Hauslife, 3 Abbeygate Street, Bath; www.hauslife.co.uk
PACK OF 3 RECYCLED PENCILS, £3.99
Leave a mark with these Vent For Change pencils made from recycled CD cases in a factory in orcestershire
Handmade pure undiluted lavender balm, made locally ith just fi e organic, natural ingredients to be used on pulse points such as temples, inside rists, and behind the ears
From Good Health Studio; www.goodhealthstudio.co.uk
ANIMAL CORK BOTTLE STOPPERS, £4.50
Crafted from metal tops with an anti ued finish to highlight the detail in the surface and includes cork stoppers hoose bet een rabbit, cat, or dog
From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk
Lucy Darby Photography
SKIN DEEP
SOAF WYATT has worked as a make-up and hair artist for over ten years, offering appointments in make-up, skincare and hair styling, as well as consultations and lessons
Following an upbringing and education in and around the Bath area, Soaf (short for Sophie) left the area to study Media Make-Up with the Open University, alongside additional courses in hair styling, barbering and special effects make-up.
She started her career as a make-up artist in film and television productions, predominantly applying special effects make-up, creating creatures and casualty effects, working on productions in Bristol, London and Wales.
Over time as her career developed she worked on video and photography advertising campaigns, applying straight make-up instead of special effects, and then later looked to settle down back in the Bath area. It was at this time she decided to step away from film and television due to the long hours and distance away from home. She revisited her skincare training and
moved forward as an events and wedding make-up and hair artist, offering a variety of appointments.
Soaf and her husband started a family in 2024 and purchased Giuseppe’s of Bath hair salon, which they run together. Soaf works part time, offering services there as well as in her client’s homes and wedding venues.
Her professional background enhances her ability for weddings and events, as it means she has worked with more face shapes, skin tones and skin types than most, which in turn makes her knowledge and skills second to none!
All the products Soaf uses are cruelty free, certified organic and chemical free. Her motto is that good skincare is the foundation for good make-up. She says, "I am so excited to be part of the community in Bath again. I absolutely love working with clients to help make them look and feel their very best. It's such a joy!"
www.soafwyatt.co.uk
@soafmua_beauty Soaf’s Tropic Weddings
Pitch Up and Play
Bespoke Childcare for Weddings & Events
Headed up by Isabella Passafaro and her incredible team of Pitch Nannies. Worried about what to do with your Mini VIPs on your special day? Pitch Up and Play are there to take all the childcare stress away whether it’s a wedding or an event. When you book with us you'll get a bunch of fun, creative and happy individuals who are fully referenced, DBS checked and absolutely love partying with Mini VIPs. www.pitchupandplay.co.uk hello@pitchupandplay.co.uk
Photo: @bubimages
GOOD FELLOW!
aj hakraborty, regional general manager at the fi e star ath pa otel, has been appointed a ello of the nstitute of ospitality one of the most prestigious titles in the hospitality, leisure and tourism sector aj’s career in hospitality spans years, beginning as a chef de partie and progressing to hold e ecuti e chef positions at hotels across ondon, including the t ancras enaissance otel and t rmin’s e took up the post of general manager at ath pa otel in ugust , before being promoted to regional general manager in anuary aj says, am incredibly proud of the hard ork, dedication and capabilities of our team, and being appointed a ello of the nstitute of ospitality ill allo me to gi e back hat the charity has gi en me, by guiding members on their path to become ello s and supporting their professional de elopment
For more: www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk
FORGING AHEAD
he orge heasant has just launched ithin artham ark, the acre estate near orsham he menu includes the orges loughman special, feta and beets accompanied by artham ark honey hich is produced by the state’s hi es, ristol eer battered fish and chips, and burgers from nearby u ton utchers att lade from ucent alo, ho o n artham ark, says, he team are thrilled to be collaborating ith the talented team from he orge heasant pect incredible interiors, a great elcome, and a menu to suit all palates, all ithin the incredible setting of artham ark his ill be the second eaterie from he orges estaurant roup ho opened he orge ern on taple ill in ristol in uly For more: www.harthamparkestate.co.uk | www.theforges.co.uk
DOUBLE WHAMMY
he ythouse itchen arden in isbury, has made history in the Michelin Guide announcements for as the only restaurant to hold both a reen ichelin tar and a ib ourmand ner iers ilburn says, dream that as four years in the making came true e are o er the moon to ha e recei ed both a reen ichelin tar and a ib ourmand e see this as the highest form of recognition of our team’s hard ork and passion for a sustainable lifestyle and look for ard to continuing hat e do so ell o ering our guests a fantastic e perience that e hope they remember for years to come
The Michelin Guide said of he ythouse itchen arden t’s a truly charming place, occupying a spot ithin a red brick former potting shed in a ictorian alled garden aid three acre garden is the lynchpin of their business, and both food and drink recipes are created so as to celebrate this homegro n produce
For more: www.pythousekitchengarden.co.uk
Bath Spa Hotel’s general manager Raj Chakraborty has been appointed a Fellow of the Institute of Hospitality
The Tisbury restaurant is committed to sustainability
The Pythouse Kitchen Garden holds both a Green Michelin Star and a Bib Gourmand
RIGHT: The new Forge & Pheasant is based at Hartham Park Estate; BELOW: Delicious Buxton Butchers’ burgers
HORRELL & HORRELL
A Sunday lunch becomes magical thanks to a touch of Hogwarts charm
By Rachel Ifans
“The rustcolouredbarn…arch-roof is like a rusticdiningHogwarts hall”
Horrell & Horrell is a lovely concept. It’s the kind of obvious idea that has you scratching your head and puzzling why it hasn’t been done before. It’s all the best bits of family dining, supper club, BYO, local produce and dining with strangers rolled into one. Yes, you read that right… dining with strangers. Anyone left of ambivert on the introvert to extrovert scale may find it hard to belie e that this is a good thing, but believe me, it is.
Local restaurateurs, Jules and Steve Horrell and their family created Horrell & Horrell back in summer 2023 and have been going all-brick-ovensblazing since then. Jules says, “I suppose if we had to describe it, it’s like coming to our house for dinner.”
So, you know, if you went to some friends for a dinner party, you might give your dietary requirements and leave the rest to them. You wouldn’t expect a menu. You’d bring a bottle and your sparkling wit (optional) and you’d leave the rest in their very capable hands. That’s what H&H is in a nutshell.
My husband and I had Sunday roast at H&H on a very blustery wet day at the end of February. It takes place in the Horrells’ back garden in a long barn that husband, handyman and chef Steve has extended and converted himself. “You’re in the converted tractor shed,” he smiled at the people at the far end of the barn, as his daughter handed us a welcome Bloody Mary. The rust-coloured arch-roof barn seats 50 people on a long continuous table and is like a rustic Hogwarts dining hall, with wicker baskets hanging from the rafters, dressers brimming ith cut flo ers and intriguing rustic knick knacks adorning the walls. And of course an incredible feast arriving like magic before your eyes.
DINING DETAILS
am from rid rganics in the illage supplies them ith any vegetables not grown on site, Nick and Tia at Wild Garden grow the salad leaves, and they use Blackmore Vale butchery for the very best beef, pork and lamb. The rump of beef we had with our roast was cooked slowly for four hours in Steve’s brick oven using the residual heat from the previous evening’s dinner service.
Open Friday and Saturday evening for dinner, and on Sundays for lunch. And at all other times for private hire
Chef Steve Horrell who started his career in food in the Cotswolds, before moving to Somerset and joining Babington House. Thereafter, he spent four years at the Chapel in Bruton, before spearheading Roth Bar & Grill in 2014 with his wife Jules
Established Summer 2023
Covers The 12metre long sharing table seats 40 guests. The barn can accommodate up to 50 guests for private hire events
Outdoor space Yes, guests can take in the kitchen garden, lawns and outdoor seating
Price Menus are a fixed price at £50pp for Sunday lunch and £65pp for dinner
Drinks A complimentary aperitif on arrival, with all other drinks being BYO, no corkage
Dietary requirements All can be catered for as long as plenty of advance notice is given
Disability access yes, accessible parking, toilets and dining space.
In a nutshell The Horrells’ passion for great food and great company shines through
Steve converted the barn a few years ago and then built the brick ovens during lockdown so they could hold family dinners. Although it’s evolved to something much bigger and more professional no , it’s still a real family a air ules e plained that, having all worked in the hospitality sector (including their son in law who is part of the team), they wanted to do something together so they trialled some pop ups in the summer of 2023.
t’s also a local a air he orrells gro a lot of their o n fruit and veg in a plot that has been home to hens, lambs, goats and pigs over the years. Goats are now persona non grata thanks to the fact that they ate everything they could get their hoofs on, including Jules’s fruit trees.
The meal itself was undoubtedly one of the best roasts we’ve ever had. A Horrells’ roast had all the best bits of Christmas dinner – the main meat, pigsin-blanket, roasties, Yorkshire pudding, carrots, green eg, stu ng, cauliflo er cheese and plentiful gra y
For me, the standouts were the slices of beef, so tender despite their generous thickness and fla oursome ith just a hint of smoke from the o en, and the cauliflo er cheese made all our mouths water with its smooth richness. For my other half, it was the roast potatoes which apparently met the high bar of his mother ho o cially makes the best ones in the world (stand back all you other mothers); crispy on the outside and buttery soft in the middle.
And he also cooed about the greatness of the gravy, another hurdle on which a whole roast can fall for that man. This one was rich and full of beefy goodness ithout o erpo ering the other fla ours on the plate he eg as scoring high fingery long, studded with cumin seeds and as sweet as the honey they were glazed in, with the hispi cabbage adding a sweet zing thanks its cider brine.
Pudding was a wonderful cake of blood orange and forced rhubarb with almond and crumble on the top with light-as-a-feather cream to dollop on top. gain, the balance as just right, a little s eetness after a hearty main course with a little acidity to bring it all together.
What made the whole event extra special was that, as well as coming away totally sated and blissed out, we’d also made pals with the couple next to us, he from taly and a firm fan of the ritish roast e preened as if e’d in ented it and she from pain, a foodie a cionado on a eekend out of ondon ho’d broken the internet’ trying to find a uni ue and interesting experience for them. Jules was right – the everyone-sittingtogether thing does work – we weaved seamlessly from conversations between us too and chit-chat with our neighbours. It’s a wonderful Sunday lunch experience made more heightened thanks to the beautiful environment, the exquisite standard of the food served, and the lovely connections made.
Bath Fashion Festival is back!
Set for the 7th and 8th of June at The Holburne Museum.
Jam packed with fashionable fun, you can expect to see an exciting fashion show, fascinating panel talks, a world class exhibition, immersive workshops, pop-up shopping, our fantastic beauty area, food and drink, and interviews with some industry icons!
Get your early bird tickets now via Eventbrite/ www.bathfashionfestival.com and follow @bathfashionfestival for more exciting updates.
TULIPMANIA
From high fashion to enduring friendship, and why the tulip is so important to our city
Words by Nick Woodhouse
With the winter almost a distant memory, so too are the early spring bulbs of the snowdrop and da odil ortunately, their successor at this time of year is louder, prouder and perhaps that bit more mischievous. Enter the tulip, seamlessly marking the transition from the promising signs of spring to the sudden eruption of summer’s perennials.
We often think of the tulip as Dutch in origin, with production of the bulb in the Netherlands currently at an all-time high of around 2 billion. It is however very much an eastern flo er, originating from a strip running from Turkey eastwards to the central Asian mountain ranges of Pamir-Alai and Tien Shan.
By the 16th century the bulb had become a fundamental part of Ottoman culture, not just amongst the elaborate gardens of the age, but also in its exquisite tiles, murals and textiles. Later that century, news arrived in Europe of the gleaming displays of tulips so coveted by the Turks. The following decades saw the bulb travel through the continent, gaining admirers and value alike. Perhaps the most bizarre period in the plant’s history was the short-lived phenomenon of ‘Tulipmania’. Experienced in Holland in the three years from 1634, the tulip became the ultimate display of wealth and success. During this feverish period, a single bulb could pass hands in Amsterdam for as much as 15 times the annual income of an average local bricklayer.
the landscape gardens so synonymous with Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. At the time, the tulip as also considered a rench flo er so fell victim to the general rejection of all things French in the aftermath of the Seven Years War.
“Bath was the recipient of 24,000 tulip and crocus bulbs; a gift from our twin city of Alkmaar”
Fortunately, the tide of fashion turned again. The very Victorian habit of collecting extended to the tulip and many large gardens would include seasonal tulip planting within their more formal parterres. Today, the Royal General Bulbgrower’s Association lists over 5,500 varieties in its international register. Here in Bath, the tulip is a symbol of friendship too. Last year, the city was the recipient of 24,000 tulip and crocus bulbs; a gift from our twin city of Alkmaar in The Netherlands. The bulbs are a special Alkmaar mix, created by one of the leading Dutch bulb suppliers, with red tulips and white crocuses reflecting the colours of the lkmaar flag Working alongside the Bath-Alkmaar Twinning Association, Bath in Bloom distributed the bulbs throughout the city to community gardening groups, schools, the RUH, Dorothy House and the local parks department.
the Baedeker raids of 1942. Exchanges and community links between the cities continue to be fostered by the Bath-Alkmaar Twinning Association to this day. As its chairman, Chris Davies, says, “Thanks to the generosity of our friends in Holland and the enthusiasm of Bath in Bloom and their supporters, we’ll have a lovely reminder of this special international city-link.”
For those of us looking to add some spring colour to our own gardens, planning ahead is advisable but not imperative. Bulbs should be planted in October and November and it’s often advised that they are done so at twice their depth. However, I prefer planting as much as double that at around 16cm. This reduces the chance of the bulb trying to reproduce and putting all its energy into o spring that are unlikely to flo er for t o to three years. Deep planting also helps anchor the bulb, so it’s less likely to get blown over and need staking. For the heavier soils experienced around some parts of the city, you can also reduce the chances of rot by planting the bulbs on a layer of horticultural grit, perhaps mixed with a touch of spent compost and bonemeal. If however you are looking for an immediate solution to those inevitable gaps in your beds and borders this spring, fear not. Nurseries and garden centres sell an ever-growing range of potted bulbs at this time of year, o ering the opportunity to add an instant burst of colour to even the smallest of corners. Perhaps we’ll be soon experiencing our own more personal Tulipmania, though thankfully this time without those eye-watering price tags.
The popularity of the tulip here was, as always, subject to the vagaries of fashion. The mid th century sa the tulip filled parterres of previous decades overlooked in favour of
hanks to a concerted planting e ort over winter, we’re able to see the resulting displays in a wealth of locations across the city, including Victoria Park, Orange Grove, Walcot Street, Henrietta Park, Sydney Gardens, Alice Park and Widcombe High Street. These displays will also mark 80 years of friendship between the twin cities this year. In 1945 Bath welcomed 50 children from the utch city, o ering a summer’s respite from the famine raging back home. A year later, Alkmaar returned the favour to children from our city which was still in shock from
For more: www.bathinbloom.org | www.bath-alkmaar.org.uk
Nick Woodhouse is the co-director of interior and garden design company Woodhouse and Law at 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk
CLOCKWISEFROMTOPLEFT: Bath in Bloom help sort the gifted bulbs ahead of planting; associated with Holland, tulips actually originated from central Asia; the beautiful city of Alkmaar in The Netherlands is twinned with Bath; it donated 24,000 bulbs to the city last year as a symbol of friendship; the results can be seen in many of our green spaces including Victoria Park, Orange Grove, Walcot Street and Henrietta Park
PHOTO BY JASON HARRIS
PHOTO BY VITYA MALY
LUX OF THE MATTER
A loyalty reward scheme founded by University of Bath graduate JAMES COURTNEY has been acquired for millions
A LOYALTY REWARD SCHEME that began as a student project at the University of Bath has transformed into a multimillion-pound success. Lux Rewards, founded by James Courtney, was recently acquired by global software company Enigmatic Smile for an undisclosed eight figure sum Lux Rewards is a leading player in the loyalty program sector, partnering with major banks, airlines, and employee benefit platforms to serve over 105 million cardholders worldwide. The idea for the company came to James in 2015 when he was a 21-year-old business student at the University of Bath. His concept, which he called ‘the air miles of the restaurant world,’ won the University’s student business plan competition. It eventually led to the creation of a dining reward app that connected
customers with high-end restaurants. He then spent the next six months of his undergraduate placement developing his start up at the University’s SET-Squared Bath Innovation Centre. Here, he took full advantage of business mentoring and local entrepreneurial networks to grow the business. “Bath and Bristol have been at the heart of Lux Rewards’ journey,” says James. “The support from the local investor community, SETsquared, and the University of Bath was crucial in getting us here. This city is an incredible place to build a business, and I’m proud to say we’ve proven that a start up from Bath can take on the world.”
There were some early moments when James faced challenges that caused him to doubt whether his inno ati e idea ould take o at all,
Co-founders Tom Munday, James Courtney and Ash Dey celebrate Lux Rewards’ acquisition
including when he invested £1,000 to host an exclusive event at a wine bar in an attempt to win over a major ristol accounting firm nly one person turned up,” he recalls. “It was the most embarrassing day of my life.”
By early 2020, Courtney had nearly given up on his business. After a Crowdcube raise provided vital funding, Covid hit, and with restaurants closing, the business was burning through over £25,000 per month. With his team on furlough, Courtney returned to his family home in Bristol, thinking the business had reached its end.
However, during the lockdown, Courtney rethought his strategy. He shifted focus away from direct consumer downloads and instead sought to partner with businesses and leverage their customer bases. his pi ot paid o in hen Lux Rewards secured a major deal with Barclaycard, which allowed the
company to grow from 1,000 users to more than 400,000 overnight. British Airways and Mastercard soon followed suit, expanding the company’s reach into the global loyalty market. Today, Lux Rewards continues to thrive, achieving four times year-on-year revenue growth.
Siobain Hone, graduate enterprise manager at the University of Bath, who supported Courtney’s student enterprise journey, expresses her pride in his success: “I am absolutely delighted to see James sell the business he started whilst he was an undergraduate – if anyone was going
“A START UP FROM BATH CAN TAKE ON THE WORLD”
to make a success of things, it was always going to be him…I’m proud to have been a small part of that journey and he has been a fantastic ambassador for Enterprise Bath.”
“Bath and Bristol have been at the heart of Lux Rewards’ journey,” says James. “The support from the local investor community, SETsquared, and the University of Bath was crucial in getting us here. This city is an incredible place to build a business, and I’m proud to say we’ve proven that a start up from Bath can take on the world.”
For now, the team is laser-focused on growing Lux Rewards under Enigmatic Smile. But is there another business on the horizon? “No plans yet,” says James, “however knowing how we work together, I’m sure this won’t be our last joint venture.”
For more: www.anniesloan.com | www.creativebath.org
5
TOP TIPS FOR START UP SUCCESS FROM THE LUX TEAM
1Meet with experienced angel investors and get their feedback before actively fundraising. Any holes they poke, make sure to fill them in with results and evidence before you start. Then you’ll be bulletproof when meeting investors in the future.
2Coming up with the idea is only 1 per cent of the journey and bringing in co-founders with complementary strengths will not only increase the chance of success but also make the journey 100x more enjoyable.
3Beware the investment hamster wheel: raise too early, raise too little, scramble to raise again - and suddenly you’re running in circles instead of running your business.
4
Don’t wait around for an acquisition to land on your lap: we deliberately set out to sell the business in 2024, and had signed heads of terms with our desired acquirer within six months.
5Be human when you sell... try and make people laugh and feel good about themselves first. Then when you do finally sell, create FOMO and pique interest, but show them that you don’t need them. Present the facts, and let them make a decision.
: Winner of EntreConf’s Fintech of the Year in 2024; James with Bish Smeir, the CEO of Enigmatic Smile; James’s University of Bath graduation; part of the SetSquared Ones to Watch team back in 2016
A HEALING SPACE
Upon meeting, Madeline Blackburn (Soul Spa & The Minerva Therapy Rooms) and Stephanie Hill (Radio Bath and The Laughter Works) recognised the need for more therapy rooms in Bath. To begin their project they needed to find a location here clients could come for tranquillity, quiet, and healing, in beautiful spaces. The pair have recently found that in The Somerset Rooms on Queen Square. he oul pa o ers sound baths, plus body,
POPPING UP
n anti ue and intage home ares pop-up shop is opening on Frome’s Catherine Hill from 17 April to 10 ay sho casing local collectors and makers. Curated by Held Home and Disparate Threads, the shop ill celebrate the beauty and craftsmanship of antique and vintage furniture and objects, presenting them as a sustainable alternative to fast furniture.
“The furniture industry generates a ast amount of aste and e ant to address this, says iranda Fitzgerald, co-founder of Disparate Threads. “We source items from a range of eras – be it vintage Casa Pupo candlesticks or a beautifully car ed d ardian chaise lounge hat e are dra n to is the uality of the materials, the craftsmanship and the patina of age, through hich items re eal their history and character
For more: Instagram @disparate.threads | Instagram @held.home
mind, and spiritual therapies, hilst he aughter orks o ers orkshops and sessions helping those dealing ith challenges such as dementia, depression, and cancer. s ell as rooms for hire, additional acti ities available include talking therapies, mindfulness courses, yoga, reiki, EMDR, tapping, EFT, CBT, family, groups, arts, book clubs, and association meetings. For more: www.thesomersetrooms.com
ON THE UP
Kate Egan-Martin and Naomi Manton have joined THRINGS’ development of land service, bringing with them more than three decades of real estate and legal experience that includes working within Top 100 law firms, local planning authorities, government departments and as in-house lawyers for national developers.
ST JOHN’S FOUNDATION has announced the appointment of Catharine Brown as its new CEO. Catharine has been serving as interim CEO since July 2024 and following a highly competitive selection process, the board of trustees unanimously decided to appoint Catharine to lead the charity into its next chapter.
FASHION MUSEUM BATH has appointed two new co-chairs to its foundation board –renowned international broadcaster Sharanjit Leyl and Philippa Simpson, director of buildings and Renewal at the Barbican Centre. It has also appointed eight trustees including Rosa Park, Martin Haigh, and Robert Yentob.
STONE KING has promoted international and crossborder lawyer Charlotte Macdonald to partner. Charlotte joined the Bath law firm as a trainee solicitor in 2013, qualifying into the firm’s trust and estates team in 2015, before moving to the international and crossborder team in 2016.
Charlotte Macdonald
Catharine Brown
Madeline Blackburn and Stephanie Hill outside The Somerset Rooms
There’s a new pop-up in Frome
Kate Egan-Martin and Naomi Manton
Sharanjit Leyl
Philippa Simpson
NEW AGENTS
WRITTEN IN THE STARS
The project ‘Herschel Museum of Astronomy – A New Museum for the 21st Century’ has received a £18,500 West of England Small Museums Grant, funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The Herschel Museum – Bath’s historic house museum dedicated to the discoveries and achievements of brother-sister duo William and Caroline Herschel – has purchased a new planetarium with the fund money, with which it intends to enhance science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning for Bath’s children.
Patrizia Ribul, director of museums at Bath Preservation Trust, says, “Inclusion is one of our cornerstone values and the planetarium has the power to inspire all ages, from all backgrounds, encouraging children all over the South West to engage with STEM.”
For more: www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk
A new paid media agency has just launched in Bath. Floresco has been created jointly by MediaClash’s founders – Jane and Greg Ingham – plus its MD, Steph Dodd, along with Dan Fallon the founder of SearchStar and two of its senior team, Harriet Barter and Sally Hunt.
“We’ve got boundless ambition for our new venture,” say Harriet and Sally, Floresco’s managing partners. “It’s all-new yet highly-experienced. Between the founding partners we have decades of understanding of how businesses communicate and the value of multi-channel creativity powered by digital marketing expertise.
“We’re data-driven, with innovation and creativity at the heart of every campaign. We’re cross-sector and have deep cross-channel understanding. And we bring fresh thinking. Customer needs evolve, media forever changes: to connect your business to new customers and to retain existing ones requires nimble creative thinking.”
SearchStar was the most successful paid media business in the South West prior to a successful sale to a US company, and a pioneer in its sector. or more www flores omedia om
ON BRAND
Luxury womenswear specialist, Sosandar has opened the doors of its brand-new store at SouthGate Bath. Located between Reiss and Oliver onas, the store o ers the full range of clothing, foot ear and accessories Founded in 2016 by Julie Lavington and Alison Hall, this is Sosandar’s si th physical store after e panding from an online only o ering last year Guy Henderson, centre director at SouthGate, says “We know how eagerly anticipated Sosandar’s opening has been by shoppers and we are delighted to welcome them to the centre.” or more www so t ate at om
Planetarium learning at the Herschel Museum of Astronomy
PHOTO BY LLOYD EVANS PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO
Welcoming clothes store Sosander to SouthGate
Sally Hunt and Harriet Barter, managing partners of the newly launched Floresco
CAREER PATH
ELAINE WARD
The
co-owner of
THE PILATES QUARTER in
Bath
reveals her
journey
from ballet dancer to business owner
Elaine Ward, originally from New Zealand, originally came to the UK alone at just 15 to attend ballet school in London. However a serious accident meant the end of a possible dancing career but she did discover Pilates through rehabilitation. She now lives in Bath with husband Phil with whom she set up The Pilates uarter in ere e find out a little more…
Tell us a little about background to your company
We opened The Pilates Quarter in 2016 and it was born out of my partnership with my husband Phil. He has studied biology, osteopathy and biomechanics and later acting. He has a strong academic understanding of the body, and training as an actor taught him about movement and
physicality. I had trained as a classical ballet dancer from a very early age so my brain is wired to experience the world through movement and watching others move.
What were you doing prior to that?
We had a very similar studio in New Zealand, so we already had some experience of owning and running a business. When we first came back to the e lived in London for a couple of years whilst we decided where we wanted to settle. Whilst we ere there hil and orked for several London studios. It was a good opportunity to see how other studios were run and also learn from other teachers.
What brought you to Bath? Ultimately, Bath made sense for our family. Phil’s family, on his father’s side, has been in Bath for
generations hen e first mo ed here, nearly a decade ago, our children had great grandparents living round the corner from us. Also the city is wonderful, the countryside is beautiful, and the schools are great.
How did you fall into the world of Pilates?
I have been doing Pilates since I was about 12. They have been using Pilates to train ballet dancers for many years now. When I attended full time ballet school in London as a teenager, there was a complete Pilates studio within the ballet school.
Did you consider becoming a dancer?
nfortunately su ered an injury in my third year. I had just been accepted to compete in a prestigious international ballet competition when I was hit by a speeding car. No longer able to train in ballet class, I spent hours in the Pilates studio at the school rehabbing my body back to fitness, the studio became like a second home.
Sounds like Pilates played a huge part of your life... My inspiration has always been the genius of the Pilates technique and how, when taught well, can transform people’s lives. As I get older, I also feel that it is really important to pass on the skills and kno ledge that ha e gained from 20 plus years of experience.
What were the early days of setting up the business like?
The early days were tough and terrifying. It was ten days before Christmas 2016 when we had completed renovations and were
“WE THOUGHT IF WE CAN GET A FEW PEOPLE IN, WE CAN AT LEAST DO A FOOD SHOP”
ready to open, people said to us ‘just open in January, have a break’, but e had literally spent everything that we had and we thought if we can get a few people in, we can at least do a food shop!
Covid and lockdowns must have hit hard?
That period was a nightmare, we must be just about the worst industry to ork in through a pandemic. We experimented a tiny bit with teaching online but to teach well you need to be in the room with someone, to properly watch them and correct faulty movement patterns.
What’s business like now?
We now see over 400 clients a eek, and e are so lucky to have an outstanding team. We train and develop teachers over a long period so it is quite a commitment, but choosing the right sort of people seems to be key ro iding secure full time employment is something I feel proud to contribute to the city.
What changes have you seen over the years?
The increase in people’s screen time and how that is literally changing bodies. I see more kyphotic posture and decreased muscle mass from new clients than before. There is also a noticeable increase in issues with hypermobility. The other change is how many of our clients are no generally orking from home, which means that the social contact that we provide really matters.
Any moment you have been particularly proud of?
o many moments e are lucky in our profession, there is so much positivity – clients tell us every day how much better they feel after a session – it’s lovely to help people feel better.
For more: The Pilates Quarter, 8 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; www.thepilatesquarter.co.uk
CREATIVE MINDS
The end of January saw the Creative Bath New Year get together at the Drawings Rooms in Union Passage. Around 80 guests enjoyed signature cocktails and a live performance from Christian on the piano.
The Creative Bath Awards nominations are now open ahead of the ceremony at Komedia on 21 May.
Photos by Narrated Frames; www.narratedframes.pic-time.com For more: www.creativebath.org
Jody Cory
Lauren Stevens, Amy Noad and Robin Warrall
Carolina Costa E Silva, Jason Smith, Jon Taylor and Jules Love
Bella Pullin and Jamie Pullin
Danie Stinchcombe and Emma Wharton Love
Kate Hall and Natasha Kidd
Philip Jansseune and Bob Mytton
Janine Solomon-Gardner and Nicholas Fleming
Elli Robinson and Lucy Stone
Richard Jones and Harry Kearns
Tom Beavan and Kate Bessant
EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS INTO LOCAL BUSINESSES
THE CITY AT WORK
MEET THE PROFESSIONALS MAKING THE CITY BUZZ
SPONSORED BY:
LEGAL
BATTENS SOLICITORS
Tell us a little about the firm…
Battens is a full service law firm, and our multi-specialist teams of lawyers provide outstanding legal advice on a wide range of issues. At Battens we focus on you, the client, to find the best legal solution. With over 300 years of experience, we are straight-talking and pragmatic. Battens Solicitors employs over 160 employees across 7 offices within Somerset and Dorset, including our Bath office.
Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement…
In 1985 Battens Solicitors
established Battens Charitable Trust (this year being its 40th anniversary), to enable grants to be made to local registered charities and for charitable purposes. In the last decade alone, the Trust has donated approximately £537,000 and counting. Beneficiaries have included hospitals, food banks, schools, youth organisations and the arts.
The Trust is administered pro bono by Battens Solicitors, and our lawyers are committed to acting as trustees to continue its good work.
In 2024 just under £40,000 was donated in support of the local community.
What makes working in Bath special?
We are very proud of the work our Bath team are doing and our increased presence in the city. This year marks our eighth year in Bath, during which time we have doubled the number of lawyers working from the office. We are going from strength to strength in offering excellent service to clients.
It never stops amazing us how vibrant and close-knit the business community is. Clients, colleagues and other professionals become friends, allowing for the development of long term relationships and a collaborative approach to client matters.
Whilst Bath is a city steeped in history, we are delighted to be a part of its future and its thriving business community.
For more: battens.co.uk
GOUGHS SOLICITORS
Nadine Stevenson, Partner
Tell us a little about the firm…
Goughs has stood the test of time and been a key feature in the legal landscape of the southwest since 1882. With 130 team members working across family law, residential and commercial property, corporate and employment matters, housebuilding & land development and will, trusts and probate, we offer our clients a wide range of services.
What is the most rewarding aspect of the firm’s work?
Work/life balance – how does the firm get this right for their staff?
Goughs are great at being flexible with staff at all levels and understand the importance of having a good work/life balance. We implemented an agile working policy which allows staff to alter their hours and also work from home. As a morning person I have thoroughly enjoyed being able to adjust my start time to finish earlier in the afternoon so I can attend personal appointments or have time to enjoy my hobby of baking. Goughs have always encouraged me to have clear boundaries between my work life and home life.
As I work in residential property, for me, the most rewarding aspect of my work is completion day. Selling or purchasing a property is a huge aspect of your life, whether it be financial or emotional and so having helped clients complete this journey is extremely rewarding.
What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?
We have a residential property team full of great experienced individuals with expertise, connections and local knowledge which allows us to give our clients the personal high-quality level of service that they deserve.
For more: nadinestevenson@goughs.co.uk; 0333 240 0023; goughs.co.uk
BLB SOLICITORS
Catherine Smith, Managing Partner
Tell us a little about the firm…
Our strong roots in Bath and West Wiltshire extend back over 60 years. We are a full service law firm with a team of 90 people offering a complete range of legal services, from transactional and advisory work to litigation, for individuals and businesses.
lients particularly praise our work in Residential and ommercial roperty, amily aw, ifetime lanning and Wills, and Business Law. Indeed, our incredible property
team was recognised at last year s Bath roperty wards, where they won both the Legal and ising Star wards. e were also shortlisted in the mployer category.
escribe life at B B
We acknowledge the demanding nature of our profession. owever, at BLB, colleague wellbeing has always been a priority, and we pride ourselves on offering a friendly, open and inviting working environment. ockdown prompted further enhancement of our wellbeing initiatives, which remain under constant review.
e are also proud of our
long history of encouraging colleagues to develop and fulfil their potential both professionally and generally. e proactively enable them to expand their roles and responsibilities and gain further ualifications. raining opportunities are provided throughout the year, and we fund external training, paid study leave and membership fees for staff wishing to gain professional ualifications. In recent years, colleagues have ualified as solicitors, chartered legal executives, licensed conveyancers and paralegals. e aim to be a career destination, not just a stepping stone, and many colleagues build lasting careers with us, contributing invaluable knowledge and expertise.
Tell us about the firm’s commitments to and policies for sustainability chieving net ero carbon is a core priority at B B. e cannot accomplish this without our colleagues support, and we have been delighted at how they have embraced and risen to this challenge, with many initiatives coming from them. or instance, we are tackling our profession s
traditionally high paper usage head on, aiming for a paperless future. his shift, powered by procedural changes and technology, boosts efficiency and security and delivers significant environmental benefits.
What makes working in Bath special?
Looking beyond the architecture, and though relatively small, the city offers a wealth of opportunities, both in business and socially. In addition to the numerous excellent dining and drinking options, Bath s thriving arts and literature scene, including numerous galleries, museums, and festivals, provides a rich cultural experience. ut simply, it s a place where individuals and businesses want to be. colleague told me that on his first day in Bath, he was greeted with, elcome to the graveyard of ambition nd in a very positive sense, that s true. nce you have experienced life in Bath, you really don’t want to leave
For more:
1 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath BA1 2DU; 01225 462871; blbsolicitors.co.uk
HELEN STARKIE SOLICITOR
Helen Starkie
What do you specialise in?
We are a niche ‘private client firm. e specialise in non-litigious work for individuals, families , farms and entrepreneurs – Complex Tax Planning, bespoke Wills, Probate, Powers of Attorney (both personal and for business owners), Court of Protection work (that is the management of the affairs of those who are unable to manage their own), Care Funding, Care Home Contracts and residential Property Work of various kinds.
What sets you apart from others in the sector?
Our ethos and our size, which enable us to get to know clients’ needs in depth. Many clients have moved to us from larger firms because they value the fact that we know and understand them (and ideally their families,
too) and their particular needs. We make time for that. Many complain that their dealings with larger firms were impersonal and they ‘never got to speak to the same person twice’. Here, they are known personally and listened to.
ame a ising tar in the irm/What plans does the firm have for
We have grown in the last year. e have super new staff in the Conveyancing and Court of Protection sectors – and Stephen Horton, a specialist Tax-Planning lawyer, already identified in the national legal press as one of the top names to watch, has come on board this January. We have other exciting plans in the offing, which, as yet, we are not at liberty to publish – but watch this space..!
For more: 01225 442353; helenstarkie.co.uk
RWK GOODMAN
Tell us a little about the firm… RWK Goodman works with businesses and individual clients in three key divisions, Commercial, Private, and Injury, providing a comprehensive range of legal services across a number of key sectors.
ith offices from Bristol to London and over 600 colleagues, we are one of the fastest growing op 100 law firms.
Last year, RWK Goodman achieved six top tier rankings in The Legal 500 UK. In the Chambers and Partners UK and Chambers High Net Worth guides to the legal profession, 40 of our lawyers were ranked and recommended across 21 practice areas.
What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?
Driven. Dedicated. Dependable. You can be sure that you’re in safe hands when you partner with our specialists. At RWK Goodman, we bring together bespoke teams from within the firm and beyond. e choose the right specialists, with the right skills, to get the right results for our clients.
very case is different. But what never changes is our commitment to our clients and their success. Whatever challenge you face, we’ve tackled it before and we’ll tackle it again.
Tell us about the firm’s commitments to When it comes to ESG (Environment, Social and Governance), we’re already making a positive difference. But we won’t stop pushing for even better.
Whether it’s improving our environment, or supporting our colleagues, clients, and communities, we are committed to acting responsibly and engaging authentically to deliver better outcomes. Our ESG commitments are part of our culture, enabling us to drive real actions, with real purpose, that have real impact. Most importantly, we hold ourselves accountable with our annual ESG Report.
hrings is an award winning law firm that has been advising private individuals, entrepreneurs, family businesses and large corporates in and around Bath for more than 300 years.
ith almost 300 staff across the firm, hrings has become a leading name for griculture, eal state, Business rowth and rivate lient law.
mbracing a one firm approach, our ueen S uare based lawyers work seamlessly with their colleagues in Bristol, ondon, Swindon, omsey, and most recently the ye alley, bringing together an enviable wealth of experience and knowledge to advise on a range of legal matters that enable our clients to grow and succeed.
What makes working in Bath special?
Bath is a beautiful place to live, work, and visit with a vibrant and historic culture that transcends the eorgina townhouse image beloved across the world.
he growing and evolving cultural offering is matched by
Bath s enviable game changing business and tech scene, with incredible new organisations launching and thriving in the city every year. e have had the pleasure of working with many of them over the years, supporting them as they go onto achieving great things.
What do you like most about the work you do?
very client is an individual, and every business or personal issue is different this makes our work interesting and fulfilling especially when you know you have helped clients on the road to success.
Tell us a little known fact about the firm hilst it s no secret we are proud of our Bath heritage, having worked tirelessly over the years to champion this city we call home, the ama ing thing is that we can trace our history back in this city for almost 250 years. s with many law firms, our name might have changed over the years, but hring has been a consistent feature of it for 140 years with eremy hring, the third generation of the eponymous family, still involved at the firm
For more: thrings.com
Luke Watson Partner and Head of Private Client Sector
Tell us a little about the firm
Stone King is a national law firm with a continuous working history in Bath for 240 years. e have a national footprint with other offices in ondon, Birmingham, ambridge, eeds and anchester. e have expertise across the education, charity social enterprise, faith, and business sectors as well as private client, offering the full range of personal services.
Tell us about the firm’s values and commitment to the community lthough we are national, Stone ing enjoys a rich history in Bath and remains committed to the city. ommunity is at the heart of what we do supporting local charities, social enterprises and small businesses, but also offer time for our staff to give back locally via corporate social responsibility initiatives.
What sets the firm apart from others in its sector? ur extensive private client
sector is made up of some of the top experts in their fields, who have spent their careers undertaking complex work across a breadth of topics, such as international cross border issues dispute resolution complex trusts and estates complex private and commercial real estate family matters and much more. his means we can assist with whatever life has in store as we help our clients to plan for the future and protect themselves and their loved ones.
For more: 01225 337599; www.stoneking.co.uk
“STONE KING ENJOYS A RICH HISTORY IN BATH AND REMAINS COMMITTED T T T COMMUNITY IS AT THE HEART OF WHAT WE DO”
LUKE WATSON
STONE KING
ACCOUNTANCY
MILSTED LANGDON
Ian Lloyd, Audit and General Practice Partner
Tell us a little about the business…
ilsted angdon is a leading independent accountancy, tax, and business advisory firm, renowned for its exceptional support to businesses and individuals in Bath and beyond. stablished over 35 years ago, we have grown to 21 partners and over 200 staff across offices in Bath, Bristol, ondon aunton and eovil.
ow has your business developed in the last months?
ur Bath office has seen significant team expansion we welcomed im erwill, udit and eneral ractice artner, in ovember, adding robust expertise to our talented pool of professionals. dditionally, mily itchell has joined us as udit anager, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge. e have also welcomed several new trainees. hese strategic team enhancements bolster our capacity to serve the diverse needs of our clients, including individuals, charities and businesses.
What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?
ilsted angdon has an excellent reputation, and it puts client care front and centre. Its whole ethos is around elping ou hrive and this applies to clients, but also to its employees. It s a place where staff are looked after and developed throughout their career.
lso, the depth of services the firm can offer clients, from and tax planning to corporate finance. or a regional practice we have a huge range of services that we can offer, and not just locally we are a member of I orldwide, a major international accounting network with contacts in 100 countries, helping our clients with international interests. he firm is very sociable, with a social committee to arrange charity initiatives and teambuilding events. e are an active part of a thriving local business community where we organise many of our own events for clients and referrers, from golf tournaments to chocolate making
MUTU ACCOUNTANCY
Tell us a little about the firm…
e are a small firm of accountants based in Bath, with a team of ten in total plus oda the dog . Based in the heart of our beautiful city, we cover a wide range of accountancy services from bookkeeping to statutory accounts, payroll, tax and business advice.
e specialise in working with start ups, consultants and not for profit organisations but service a wide range of clients from many different sectors.
What makes working in Bath special?
Bath is home to a wealth of entrepreneurial talent. e love the diverse nature of the companies in Bath, and that many of them have an ethical or not for profit focus.
e find that clients often choose us because it s great to have a local firm they can meet in person at our office in ewark orks and pick up a okoko coffee on the way . e
love bumping into our clients whilst out and about in town.
What is the most rewarding aspect of the firm’s work?
ithout doubt it is getting to know local businesses and helping them with their plans, be that to grow the business, to make it attractive to sell, to be tax efficient or to improve their cash flow.
What challenges are your clients facing?
or many of our clients pril will bring challenges due to events happening in the world as well as in the with changes to tax and ational Insurance rates. e ve been in contact with all of our clients that will be affected and are available to help them with cash flow forecasting and navigating the next few years and to remain tax efficient of course , as they are also contending with higher operating and production costs.
For more: 01225 582582; hello@mutu.uk; mutu.uk
For more: 01225 904940; advice@milstedlangdon.co.uk; www.milstedlangdon.co.uk
MOORE SCARROTT
Tell us a little about the firm
oore Scarrott is a leading firm of hartered ccountants, Business dvisors, and ax Specialists. stablished nearly 25 years ago. e operate across the South est, including our newly opened Bath office. ith a team of over 100 professionals, we deliver tailored solutions to clients in a range of sectors, including commercial, veterinary, farming and healthcare. nown for our personable approach and deep sector knowledge, we help clients grow, adapt, and thrive in ever changing market conditions.
What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?
oore Scarrott prides itself on offering a specialist, sector driven service model that combines large firm expertise with bouti ue level personal attention. e develop lasting partnerships, providing strategic advice beyond compliance. ur proactive and holistic approach means clients benefit from
financial guidance that spans tax efficiency, business growth, and succession planning.
ow does the firm get the work/life balance right for their staff?
e recognise that happy and well supported employees are the key to delivering outstanding service. lexible working arrangements and regular team building events ensure our staff can balance professional demands with personal commitments. ur focus on personal and career development empowers employees to grow their skills, embrace new opportunities, and achieve their full potential. e foster a supportive, inclusive environment where success is celebrated.
What plans does the firm have for 2025?
ur primary focus is on expanding the Bath office, building local relationships, and contributing to the thriving Bath business community. e aim to further enhance our digital services and continue investing in our team s development. By combining innovation with our trusted advisory services, we re confident 2025 will be a year of growth and opportunity.
For more: 01225 234294; moore-scarrott.co.uk
“WITH A TEAM OF OVER 100 PROFESSIONALS, WE DELIVER TAILORED SOLUTIONS TO CLIENTS IN A RANGE OF SECTORS”
PEARSON MAY
Helen Draper MMath(Hons) FCA works in the Private Client department at Pearson May’s Bath Office
Tell us a little about the business.
Pearson May is a prominent local firm of chartered accountants and chartered tax advisers, with a history dating back over 180 years. he team at earson ay encompasses 60 members of staff, including 23 chartered accountants, 13 chartered tax advisers and a number of students and trainees, located in offices in Bath, rowbridge and hippenham. ll of the partners are home grown having trained with the firm and then progressed through to owning and running the business.
e offer a variety of services to companies, partnerships, trusts and individuals, such as auditing, accounting, payroll provision, tax planning and tax compliance. e often act for multiple generations of a family, many of whom say we know their financial affairs better than themselves, and, as we also offer probate services, we can truly say that we offer a cradle to grave service.
ur clients are spread far and wide, located locally, nationally and internationally. lients often stay with us when moving away from the area and then recommend us to their friends
What makes working in Bath special?
aving grown up in a evon village, for me, Bath has the best of both worlds all the amenities of city living whilst retaining plenty of green spaces. I am very fortunate to be able to walk to work and will often vary my route to take in the pictures ue surroundings on my way to our office on reat ulteney Street.
What advice would you give to anyone considering Accountancy as a career?
ccountancy encompasses many different specialisms try to gain experience in different areas to identify what pi ues your interest. uring my university holidays, I worked in a small firm of accountants, which provided an excellent grounding before commencing my chartered training with earson ay. raining firms such as earson ay offer experience in a variety of fields, including accounts, tax and audit.
What do you specialise in?
I deal with tax compliance and tax planning for individuals, located in Bath and all over the world. his encompasses inheritance tax planning, capital gains tax planning and the preparation of tax returns.
Tell us about the firm… t a ksmoor n estment anagement e specialise in managing our clients’ in estment portfolios in a highly bespoke manner ur n estment anagers pride themsel es on building long standing relationships ith their clients, understanding their needs throughout the di erent stages of their li es and ensuring that their needs are met hether it be for the short, medium or long term
What sets Hawksmoor Investment Management apart?
t a ksmoor, e are completely focussed on the client relationship e belie e in putting the client first, rather than the process, and this is at the centre of e erything e do ll our clients are indi iduals, so that is ho e treat them e seek to bring our hard earned and e tensi e e perience to the fore in helping our clients achie e their personal goals and objecti es his re uires a highly personal ser ice and a deep commitment on our part
Tell us about your team… e are e tremely fortunate to ha e a ery e perienced person team based in e ark orks, oundry ane, ath he n estment anagers ob, ean and an, along ith ealth anager d mith, ha e been in the in estment industry collecti ely for nearly
years hey ha e seen so much throughout these years and are kno ledgeable on ho the sector ebbs and flo s constantly and are able to diligently manage the lo s, and perform significantly ith the highs, all for the benefit of their clients he n estment anagers are consistently supported by im, erena and andy dministrators
What are your predictions for 2025?
e ha e a dedicated in house research team at a ksmoor, and our hief n estment cer recently ga e his thoughts on the outlook for e are careful to ensure e in est ith aluation on our side e enter ith plenty of reasons to belie e that e can identify indi idual securities, and funds managed by talented indi iduals, to take ad antage of the many opportunities markets are currently presenting ’
For more: Unit 18, Newark Works, 2 Foundry Lane Bath BA2 3GZ; 01225 984710; hawksmoorim.co.uk
a ksmoor n estment anagement a ksmoor , a ksmoor is authorised and regulated by the inancial onduct uthority ts registered o ce is nd loor tratus ouse, mperor ay, eter usiness ark, eter, e on ith company umber
his article does not constitute an o er or in itation to any person, nor should its content be interpreted as in estment or ta ad ice he information and opinions it contains ha e been compiled or arri ed at from sources belie ed to be reliable at the time and are gi en in good faith, but no representation is made as to their accuracy, completeness or correctness ny opinion e pressed in this document, hether in general or both on the performance of indi idual securities and in a ider economic conte t, represents the ie s of a ksmoor at the time of preparation and may be subject to change ast performance is not a guide to future performance he alue of an in estment and any income from it can fall as ell as rise ou may not get back the amount you originally in ested
MI WEALTH CONSULTANCY
Maria Isaeva, Founder
Tell us about the firm’s founder…
aria is a fully ualified financial planner and a hartered inancial nalyst ith o er years industry e perience er clients come from di erent backgrounds, from entrepreneurs to professionals, she has a particular focus on female clients and their families aria adopts a goal based approach to financial planning hen clients contact her saying that they’ e been able to retire earlier than they e pected or that they feel confident about their future these are the moments that define her success as an ad iser
What are going to be the topical issues for the sector in 2025?
he utumn udget introduced se eral ta changes
impacting financial ad isers and their clients, including changes to capital gains ta and inheritance ta including transfer of pensions on death ortunately, some of these ill be phased in, gi ing ad isers and their clients time to plan and consider opportunities hich may ha e been o erlooked pre iously
For more: miwealth.co.uk
he le els and bases of ta ation, and reliefs from ta ation, can change at any time he alue of any ta relief depends on indi idual circumstances
ealth onsultancy imited is an ppointed epresentati e of and represents only t ames’s lace ealth anagement plc hich is authorised and regulated by the inancial onduct uthority for the purpose of ad ising solely on the group’s ealth management products and ser ices, more details of hich are set out on the group’s ebsite sjp co uk products he t ames’s lace artnership’ and the titles artner’ and artner ractice’ are marketing terms used to describe t ames’s lace representati es SJP Approved 26/03/2025
UNIVIDUAL
Cherie-Anne Baxter, FCIM Strategy & Marketing Director
Tell us a little about the firm
nividual is a hartered inancial lanning business like no other. hether you are looking for one off personal or business advice, or need a complete overhaul of your finances, nividual focus on increasing clients financial literacy and stability so they can organise their money, their way.
What achievement is the firm most proud of?
his year we are celebrating 25 years of business. ounded in 2000 by ohn Baxter, there isn t much we haven t seen over the years. ohn bought his daughter and son, herie nne and ewis, on board to take over the company over ten years ago. nividual has grown from strength to strength and now has a team of 6 hartered inancial lanners and 20 members of staff. inning countless awards, both locally and in the industry, the business has never focused on being the biggest but the best at what they do.
Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement… his spring we will be volunteering for ulian ouse, to better understand how to support people living on Bath s streets. e are also doing the alk of ife on 17 ay. In September we are going to do a food bank collection for enesis rust and then ovember will see us collecting hristmas resents for Southside a domestic abuse charity. auren ewman heads up all of our charity efforts and we get everyone in the company involved. e find that giving people a diverse mix of things they can get involved in really works but it also gives colleagues exposure to the diversity of people s lives and what different types of people go through.
What is the firm’s ethos and philosophy?
nividual s foundations have always been about treating people as uni ue individuals. In a non inclusive industry, nividual are trailbla ers for bespoke financial advice instead of a one si e fits all service. e are on a mission to build a business reflective of today s world that can educate people on their finances. For more: unividual.co.uk
PATENT ATTORNEY
EIP EUROPE
Tell us a little about the firm
EIP is an international IP law firm specialising in high value and complex patents. Since opening in 2000, we have grown to 200 people across seven offices in the , urope and the S. fter ondon, our second largest office is in Bath. ur team includes patent attorneys, specialist litigators and commercial I lawyers, and we combine their skills to serve our clients needs across the entire patent and wider I space. he est is full of sophisticated blue chip enterprises who often feel it necessary to go to ondon to seek legal services. here is no need Speak to us and see how we compare.
What sets apart from others in its sector?
I is uni ue in being the only patent firm with a patent practice in the S. e can handle your , uropean and
S work under one roof. odiphy is another uni ue I offering that includes expert patent attorneys and commercial I lawyers who are specialists in advising software, I and data driven businesses. odiphy focuses on I strategy development spanning patenting, copyright, and trade secret protection, negotiating and drafting commercial agreements for software development, technology transfer and I licensing, and ensuring compliance with data protection laws and open source obligations.
ow has the firm adapted to stay relevant?
lients tell us that traditional patent firms lack commercial and strategic advisors and traditional solicitor firms lack technical and deep I expertise. odiphy is one of our solutions to that criticism. ot stopping there, we have launched similar offerings specific to semiconductor, electronics and photonics mpliphy , early stage bio pharma Stratiphy , and uantum technologies uantiphy .
Creative Cupboard is a uniquely structured design agency that delivers first class communications and marketing materials to clients in a wide range of business sectors. ounded in 2023 as an offshoot to our sister company, AJ Advertising to address a gap in the communications market we have gone from strength to strength. Our eight strong studio team includes designers, artworkers, photographers and copywriters, who all bring their own distinct style and unique perspectives to every job.
ow has the firm adapted to stay relevant?
We recognised that there were plenty of businesses out there that didn’t require a full service advertising partner but did need extra input into their creative so we decided to offer our creative services as a standalone proposition. As short-term press specialists we’re used to delivering creative work at speed so we can turn
briefs around quickly and accurately, offering competitive rates without compromising on quality. The communications industry is evolving rapidly so we have invested in additional training and systems. This commitment ensures the team stay ahead of the curve when it comes to practical skills and means our work always rises to meet the challenge of evolving market demands.
What have been the highlights of the past months?
We’re incredibly proud of our work on the Yankee Candle Mother’s Day 2025 campaign. It was a detailed and extensive brief that involved everything from concept creation through to producing over a hundred differently si ed online adverts so it was a real challenge. It’s such an ama ing brand to work for that we were determined to pull out all the stops to deliver something truly special and all the hard work was definitely worth it, we’re extremely pleased with the end result and we have a very happy client too.
What’s the firm’s ethos and philosophy?
We believe that high quality creative work doesn’t need to attract a premium price
tag. hanks to our efficiently run studio we’re able to offer innovative solutions at reasonable rates. We also believe in giving our clients choice and do this through collaboration. Our team are all experts in their craft with a huge range of experience. When a client briefs Creative Cupboard, they get the whole team. We work together to provide a number of different options so
the client gets the best possible value from their spend. We always aim to deliver marketing communications materials that exceed expectations. Above all when a client chooses to work with Creative Cupboard they know they’re getting outstanding work, for a fair price and excellent servicing along the way!
For more: creativecupboard.co.uk
PIPSTER SOLUTIONS
Tell us a little about the firm
We are an award-winning consultancy specialising in bid writing and management for UK public sector contracts. We provide practical guidance and support to businesses across diverse industries, including highways, construction, healthcare, and energy. ur certified team has helped hundreds of companies secure contracts through expert bid management, writing, coordination, coaching, review, and graphic design. We assist our clients in delivering compliant, compelling, and competitive submissions that win.
ow was your company founded and who by?
Pippa Birch has been a Bid Writer and Manager for over 20 years and founded Pipster Solutions in 2012. She wanted to create a company that provided bidding services differently from others, a service where we become integrated with client teams and share success together. Pippa also wanted to create a company that cares for
its employee’s personal and professional development.
What sets the company apart from others in its sector?
Our ability to get to know and understand our clients, maintain communication, seamlessly work together, form trust and honesty, friendship and collaboratively celebrate success. We create long-term trusted partnerships that win work.
We are not ‘parachute’ bid writers, arriving to work with you and then leaving. We prefer to stay in touch, build forward pipelines, help you target the right contracts, guide you through the tender process and witness success and business growth together!
What are clients saying about working with ipster olutions?
“We realise how valuable Pipster Solutions are to our business, and that’s why we have block booked as many framework tenders as we possibly can!”
“Working with Pipster is a complete pleasure. They are such lovely people – it’s almost like it’s not a business relationship - it’s like working with friends.”
For more: pipster-solutions.co.uk
TRANSITION 15
Tell us a little about the firm
Transition 15 provides an accelerated approach to building world-class, highperformance leadership and teams, unlocking value across your business to drive sustainable success.
ow was your firm founded and who by?
rom school days at illfield, Transition 15 founder, Matt Perry has had a keen interest in and passion for people and behaviour. Interested in pursuing this, he accepted an offer to study law and psychology. However, also an eager sportsman, he grasped a chance to play rugby in South Africa.
On his return, Matt was offered an opportunity at Bath Rugby where he spent 12 years and played a key part in winning the Heineken European Cup. He also represented England, the Barbarians and the British & Irish Lions on 45 occasions learning what is required to be part of truly world-class, highperforming teams and how to successfully transition between teams.
Forced to retire through injury, att wanted to find a way to impart his unique insight and knowledge of world-class team environments to others. He trained as an executive coach delivering change management and performance
coaching programmes for clients such as Visa Europe, M&S and Nationwide.
He went on to set up Transition 15 and now leads a team of Associate Performance Coaches, sharing their expertise and insights of highperformance environments.
What is the most rewarding aspect of the firm’s work?
Each one of our team is passionate about helping individuals and teams to get the best with, for and from each other. We’re always appreciative of the opportunity to help individuals and teams connect, communicate and collaborate more effectively.
Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement
With both personal and business roots in Bath, Transition 15 is always keen to support the local community and charities close to our hearts including the Bath and Wiltshire Air Ambulance, The Bath Rugby Foundation and The Lily Foundation.
For more: transition15.com
TECH
DIGITAL WONDERLAB
About Digital Wonderlab…
Founded in 2009, Digital Wonderlab is a purpose-driven digital agency specialising in digital strategy, UX, and digital solutions. Our 15-person team works closely with organisations to enhance efficiency, design seamless digital services, and build visually beautiful websites and apps. As an Umbraco Platinum Partner, we combine strategic thinking, creative design, and technical expertise to help organisations make the most of their digital landscape. Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do – we don’t just deliver projects, we work in partnership with our clients to create real impact.
What are going to be the topical issues for the sector in 2025?
The digital world is evolving rapidly, and in 2025, businesses must take a strategic approach to technology. Organisations need to assess where they are, where they want to be, and how to get there – balancing innovation with practicality. AI, automation, and customer experience will be major priorities, alongside ensuring digital tools and services work seamlessly for users. Many businesses struggle to make the most of their existing technology, and efficiency,
service design, and accessibility will be crucial for those wanting to stay ahead.
What sets Digital Wonderlab apart from others in its sector?
We believe great digital experiences come from collaboration. Unlike agencies that simply deliver solutions, we embed ourselves in our clients’ teams, working alongside them to co-create tailored, highimpact digital products. Our focus is not just on building technology, but making it work beautifully and meaningfully – ensuring businesses can grow and adapt without unnecessary complexity.
What is the most rewarding aspect of the firm’s work?
For us, it’s about working with purpose-driven organisations to help them amplify their impact. Whether supporting charities, social enterprises, or businesses that make a real difference, we love seeing how the right digital tools can empower them to do more. As a tech-for-good company, we believe in making digital work for people and the planet.
As we move into 2025, those embracing strategic digital thinking will thrive. If you’re looking for a partner to navigate the evolving digital landscape, let’s start the conversation.
For more: digitalwonderlab.com
MARLIN COMMUNICATIONS
Tell us a little about the company…
Marlin Communications is a business communications technology company based in Bath. Established in 1998 and with just over 20 employees, we’ve been providing our clients with best-in-class unified communication collaboration solutions that increase efficiency, productivity, reduce costs and improve the bottom line, for over 25 years.
We have strategic partnerships with over 30 market-leading technology providers and deliver bespoke solutions to clients with our team of in-house Solutions Consultants and fully accredited Engineers.
What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?
Unlike many of our competitors, we pride ourselves on being fully consultative and vendor-agnostic.
This, combined with our wealth of knowledge and experience in the sector, allows us to work across the full spectrum of business communications technology. For some projects, we can even offer clients up to 100 off their initial capital expenditure with our unique approach to discounting and financial packaging.
All this means our clients can trust us to provide fully supported, cutting-edge solutions designed to fully satisfy their business needs – all wrapped up in a financial package the likes of which they may never have thought possible!
What achievements is the firm most proud of?
In 2024, Marlin Communications successfully achieved ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification. his prestigious certification underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting customers’ sensitive information and
maintaining the highest standards of data security.
In the same year, after having successfully deployed the first ever oom ontact Centre in the UK (to a wellknown Scottish law firm , we became one the few oom partners to secure all three oom p artner rogram competencies oom hone, oom ontact entre oom Contact Centre Deployment.
David Green, Channel anager, Ireland at oom said, e are delighted to name Marlin Communications as a key strategic partner. With our globally recognised communication solutions and Marlin Communications’ expertise in integrations and dedication to providing outstanding value to customers, we are looking forward to reshaping the market.”
Marlin Communications remains robustly vendoragnostic, but this achievement with one of our highest profile technology vendor-partners highlights our dedication to delivering unparalleled value and exceptional experiences consistently for our clients, building strong, long-term relationships.
For more: 0800 032 8274; info@marlincomms.co.uk; marlincomms.co.uk
ONFINITY
Tom Cannon
Tell us a little about the company
I I were established in 2014 originally part of oore Stephens to support organisations in Bath and the surrounding area with I support and solutions. he company has grown each year and now supports hundreds of businesses, charities, and schools. e are yber Security lus certified so show our dedication to yber Security, and help our clients with their own certification.
What’s the hottest topic in your industry for ?
yber Security and I. nfortunately, yber rime is constantly on the rise and getting harder to tackle which we hear about often on the news with large organisations getting attacked. There are lots of ways to prevent it and protect your organisations, a big one being multi factor authentication or make sure that is enabled on all of your accounts. e can offer most organisations a free I audit or review which would highlight any weaknesses. lease visit www.onfinity. co.uk free it audit for more information.
ow can you help with remote / hybrid working? nfinity provide cloud I
systems, s, remote desktop and oI telephones . e have helped a huge number of clients switch, during the last 5 years to be able to work from anywhere home. Some organisations have already adapted to permanently working from home, which we were e uipped to help with. e can supply a whole range of software to enable established businesses, or start ups to be fully cloud based.
Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement
e are excited to be sponsoring the Bath Boules tournament this year, after entering a team for the last ten years. e also enjoy helping a lot of local schools with their I support and cyber security.
id you know?
e have an office in the centre of Bath, and Bristol which makes us close and easy to get to for a lot of organisations. e also provide schools with I support e work with plenty of schools in B S and as far as loucester and xeter e work with various s to provide networking, devices and interactive screens.
For more: 01225 984000; onfinity.co.uk
RECRUITMENT
CMD RECRUITMENT
Dan Barfoot, Operations Manager
Tell us a little about the business...
CMD Recruitment has been trading since 2004, and with 20 staff has been supporting many businesses with their growth in this time. With an average tenure on the team of over 10 years this has meant continuity for clients and a team who understand the South est market.
Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement he business has always supported many local causes, and over the years has run charity golf days, funded childrens summer football
camps and annually support the food banks.
e tend to keep this local and rotate through the causes, as we like to give back to the local community when possible
What sets the firm apart from others in its sector? he team is what sets us apart, as we practice what we preach in that if you look after your people and they will look after you. ith over 140 years recruitment experience within the team there isn t another business that can claim this.
Tell us a little known fact about the firm actually stands for im s sons initials which is allam atthew aniel, and not the original office network of alne, elksham and evi es.
For more: cmdrecruitment.com
ASPIRE TO MOVE
Tell us a little about the firm spire to ove are a passionate and independent lettings agency that puts people first. ounded in 2019, we ve grown into a trusted name in the property rental market, known for our seamless service and community-focused approach across both Bath and Bristol. ur dedicated team works tirelessly to make the letting process as smooth and stress-free for both landlords and tenants. ith countless five star reviews, we take pride in delivering ama ing service as standard. hether you re renting out your property or searching for a new home, we re here to offer expert advice with a personal touch, every step of the way.
Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement spire to ove is deeply committed to supporting the local community through various charity initiatives. ne of our proudest moments was hosting a charity ui night, which raised an incredible £2,559 for a vital local cause. he event brought together landlords, tenants, and local businesses for a
fun filled evening of trivia, ra e pri es, and generous donations. Beyond fundraising events, we actively support local food banks, sponsor community projects, and collaborate with charities to make a meaningful impact. iving back is at the heart of what we do, reinforcing our core value of being proud to support our community.
What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?
t spire to ove, we are committed to providing every customer with a truly personal and tailored service. e go the extra mile to ensure service excellence even if that means rolling up our sleeves and attending a property ourselves to help landlords avoid unnecessary call out charges. ur friendly and knowledgeable team offers honest, expert advice to help maximise the potential of your investment, always putting your best interests first. s a local, independent agency, we work with trusted contractors to provide a seamless, cost effective service with no hidden fees. nlike many competitors, we believe property management should be allinclusive, ensuring complete transparency and value for our clients. ur passion for what we do truly sets us apart.
For more: 01225 444 333; aspiretomove.co.uk
BATH STONE PROPERTY
Tell us a little about the company…
Bath Stone Property is an independent, established estate agency operating for 30 years now with two offices covering Bath, Midsomer Norton, and all the surrounding villages of both offices. Specialising in selling and letting properties, we have a team of more than 10 experienced staff available to answer any propertyrelated uestions. s part of our lettings team, we have an in office property management team specialising in Housing and HMO legislation, ensuring all our tenancies/ landlords are compliant and ready for any upcoming changes in regulations.
Tell us about the company’s community/charity involvement.
Community is at the heart of our business; we regularly support community events, sponsoring the Bear lat rt rail, the Bear lat ssociation and Odd Down Football lub. s both our directors are mum’s with children, it is important to us, to support as many local schools as we can. We decided to donate 1% of
all fees to schools chosen by our vendors when instructing us to sell their property. Since starting the donations, we have donated over £4000.
In addition to this, our annual 12 days of Christmas advent calendar has included 24 local schools, gifting them sports resources, cooking equipment, maths, science learning aids and much more. Our current fundraising challenge is to support SueEllen by raising as much money as possible to prepare her to run the ondon arathon. ll money raised will be donated to he enesis rust.
Describe the company’s offices?
It’s important to us that our customers and clients feel welcome and at ease in our offices. he offices have been designed and furnished around being a friendly, relaxed environment. e love to see our customer and listen to their property wants and needs to enable us to have all the information to start/continue their property journey and get them moving towards their dream home. e always have tea, coffee, and biscuits at the ready!
For more: bathstoneproperty.com
CAMELLA
Melissa
Anderson,
Founder and Director
Tell us a little about your business…
Camella is an ethical, femalefounded boutique estate agency specialising in luxury marketing and providing a bespoke, personalised service. Established with a focus on kindness, integrity, and being noticeable, the firm operates from two offices in Batheaston and Bear Flat, covering Bath and its surrounding villages. With a small, dedicated team, Camella emphasises a high-touch approach to estate agency, ensuring a seamless and exceptional experience for clients.
Why are women at the heart of your business?
Many of my team members are women because I specifically seek out talented mothers who’ve taken career breaks to raise their families. I recognise their organisational skills, dedication, and empathy—qualities developed through motherhood. Flexible working is essential, allowing them to balance both work and family while contributing their expertise effectively.
Work/life balance – how does amella get this right for their staff?
At Camella, we prioritise work/life balance by ensuring our team isn’t working every weekend. e offer flexible hours and foster a supportive environment where team members help one another. We also provide paid time off for school assemblies and appointments, plus a paid day off on your birthday. s a social team, we enjoy quarterly nights out to relax and bond.
ow important are diversity and inclusivity within your business Diversity and inclusivity are vital to my business. With Sicilian and Jamaican heritage, I was raised to treat everyone equally, regardless of sex, colour, or disability. I strive to create a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and has a strong sense of belonging.
For more: 01225 255 321; camella.co.uk
CRAIG FULLER PROPERTY
Tell us a little about the firm…
Craig Fuller Property S&A Ltd (CFP) was founded by Craig Fuller on the 1st January 2025; Craig, who was previously a regional Director for Stacks Property Search since 2017, founded the company with a focus on being client, rather than territory led. CFP is a highly respected property search & Acquisition company, which identifies, negotiates and secures country houses across Bath, the Cotswolds, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Somerset for its clients. I large percentage of clients are overseas clients, including several amily offices for which Craig has acted for many years. The current team of 5 is about to increase to 6 within the next few weeks.
What is the most rewarding aspect of the firm’s work?
The relationships built with clients is certainly the most important and enjoyable part
of the business. The strength of these relationships is vital to ensuring the whole process of buying a home is effective and successful. n top of that, we get to see some of the most exceptional and stunning houses there are in and around Bath.
What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?
An eye for detail and the speed of action. Time is almost always the most important factor in any property transaction, for all sides. Being able to respond and act quickly is essential in a competitive marketplace.
What wards has the firm or members of its team won?
Craig continues to be Recommended as a country specialist by Spears500 since 2022, and the team was thrilled to win the Cotswolds Awards 2024 as the best property business in the Cotswolds.
For more: 07767211707; craigfullerproperty.co.uk
HETREED ROSS
Tell us a little about the practice...
Hetreed Ross are environmental architects, Bath based since 1997, currently 7 of us, adept at difficult consents for residential, community & commercial projects with new, existing and historic buildings; using low energy design, sustainable construction & appropriately simple services, we produce delightful buildings to exceed clients’ expectations to improve both life and planet. RIBA Chartered, Passivhaus Designers, AECB, Green Register.
Tell us about the firm’s community/charity involvement
HRA work long term with many local charities (at appropriately charitable rates!), including as Church Architects for a dozen local parishes. e ve worked with Bath ity Farm to design their new café and we’re underway with Jamies Farm 7 at Shockerwick to open later this year. Current Church projects include extension and re ordering at Peasedown St John, and an ultra modest extension to St ulians, ellow.
What is the most rewarding aspect of the firm’s work?
That’s working with clients as building USERS: a feature of the small scale projects we enjoy both for domestic clients at their homes a fulfilling, exhiliarating (and occasionally daunting!) process for us all; and for our commercial and community clients on the crucial details of their bespoke projects.
Tell us about the firm’s commitments to and policies for sustainability? e have pursued environmental solutions since we began – and some of us much longer! – and aim for all our new work to Passivhaus fabric standards, making complete sense for our clients economically as well as for comfort and planet. Upgrading existing is inevitably more complex both physically and in cost terms, with restrictions on historic buildings adding to the challenges of building sustainability, with detailed follow through on site by committed contractors an especially vital aspect of overcoming the ‘performance gap’.
For more: 01225 851860; t o .co
JACK FLOWER PROPERTY
Jack Flower
Tell us a little about the company…
Jack Flower Property is a Bespoke Estate Agency ran by me, ack lower. I offer Residential Sales, Lettings, and Property Management. As an Independent Agent, I have only a handful of clients and properties on the market at one time. his means I can offer a bespoke service tailored to you, including home staging and off market selling.
I offer professional videography, drone photography and photography in my standard package, because high quality marketing is key to securing the right buyer.
Buying, selling or investing in property can be overwhelming; I will guide you through the process step by step. ith me you’ll get total transparency and no hidden costs throughout our journey together.
What are your predictions for 2025?
I predict modest growth for the sales market this year. e have seen week on week growth in 2025 for Bath in terms of number of sales agreed and new instructions, showing that Bath is proving to be resilient. Lettings in Bath continues to see rising prices and low stock levels, so, if you are in a position to purchase a buy to let, now would be a great time.
Is Bath a good place to invest?
Bath has seen consistent capital growth in the property sector and remains not only an incredible place to live, but an incredible place to invest. House prices have risen from an average price of £528,974 (BA1, BA2) in 2020 to £648,208 (BA1, BA2), in the first three months of 2025. This represents a 22.54% increase, highlighting that Bath is a safe investment, as well as a beautiful place to call home.
For more: 07886214323; ck. o .uk.co ck o o ty ck o . .uk.co
KNIGHT FRANK
Sam Daniels, Partner, Head of Bath City Sales
Tell us a little about the firm…
Knightt Frank Bath is a leading player in Bath’s property market, specialising in prime residential sales. We combine an in-depth understanding of Bath’s unique homes with global expertise. We bring a dynamic approach, blending local insight with the firm s extensive global reach to offer a client first ethos.
ame a ising tar in the irm
Melanie, who joined the Bath office nine months ago, has quickly become a real standout. Her keen eye for detail, strong communication skills, and proactive approach have made her an invaluable team member. Melanie’s ability to forge strong client relationships and offer tailored, expert advice has already
made a significant impact in a competitive market. We are truly lucky to have her on our team, and she is undoubtedly on a path to continued success.
Tell s bout the irm’s ommunity/ harity nvolvement…
We are committed to supporting the local community. We’re proud to back Bath Rugby Foundation, empowering vulnerable children and young people in Bath and surrounding areas through sport and life skills. We also support RUHX, the official charity of the oyal nited ospital, aiding efforts to enhance healthcare across the region.
Tell s a ittle nown act bout the irm…
Knight Frank is one of the world s leading property firms and the largest privately owned global property network. Unlike many in the industry, we are structured as a private partnership, ensuring decisions are based on long-term strategy and client-focused service rather than external shareholders. Our unique partnership structure allows us to remain one of the most influential independent property consultancies, ensuring we deliver exceptional service for generations to come.
For more: 01225 325992; knightfrank.com
MEA CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANTS
Tell us a little about the firm…
Established in 1967, MEA is a team of Bath-based construction consultants providing project management and quantity surveying services for clients across both the private and public sectors. Our projects range from £500k to £50M and cover a broad spectrum of the built environment – from private homes and schools to affordable housing, offices, hotels, retail spaces, sports facilities, and historic landmarks. As trusted partners, we draw on decades of experience to provide clear, practical guidance, ensuring every project is delivered smoothly, on time, and within budget.
What makes working in Bath so special?
Having worked in and around Bath for the past 30 years, we’ve seen first hand how the city blends ambition, diversity and a thriving business community. It attracts talented, forwardthinking professionals, making it an ideal place for collaboration and new opportunities. Beyond business, Bath’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant social scene make it a fantastic place to work and live. Its’ unique mix of heritage and innovation continues to inspire us and the projects we deliver.
What plans does the firm have for ?
2025 is already shaping up to be an exciting year for MEA. We’ve just been appointed for two iconic projects in Bath that we can’t wait to announce. We are also proud and excited to once again sponsor the Winner of Winners category at the 2025 Bath Property Awards, celebrating the outstanding achievements within the industry. And we’re planning lots of team events throughout the years, including participating in the Circuit of Bath for Julian House –hopefully with drier conditions this year!
For more: The New Workshops, Beehive Yard, Bath, BA1 5BT; 01255 37793; southwest@meaconsult.co.uk; meaconsult.co.uk
“WE DRAW ON DECADES OF EXPERIENCE TO PROVIDE CLEAR, PRACTICAL GUIDANCE, ENSURING EVERY PROJECT IS DELIVERED SMOOTHLY, ON TIME, AND WITHIN BUDGET”
OTTERS HOME SEARCH
Abbie Long and Francesca Watson
Tell us a little about the company…
ounded in 2023 by chartered surveyors bbie ong and rancesca atson, tters ome Search provides a bespoke property search service in Bath and nearby areas. e match clients with homes that suit their lifestyle, balancing aesthetics with practicality.
s Bath locals with strong professional connections, we uncover exclusive properties and offer expert guidance to simplify the buying process, saving clients time, stress, and money.
What is your thos?
e are dedicated, knowledgeable, and client focused. ur approach combines professional representation, active listening, and impartial advice to ensure a seamless experience for buyers relocating or moving within Bath.
e prioritise fairness, transparency, and flexibility, securing the best outcomes while considering the emotional and logistical complexities of home buying.
What sets you apart from others in your field?
nlike estate agents, we represent buyers exclusively, offering unbiased advice and dedicated advocacy. ur independent status grants access to off market opportunities and sought after properties. everaging our network and market expertise, we secure the best homes at the right price. ur reputation is built on trust, discretion, and exceptional results.
Why Bath?
Bath s diverse property landscape, excellent schools, rich culture, and beautiful countryside make it an exceptional place to live. e are proud to help clients find their perfect home in this remarkable city.
For more: 07400 736436 / 07900 905764; hello@ottershomesearch.com; ottershomesearch.com
RENGEN HOUSE
Jo Lloyd
Tell us a little about the firm
Rengen House is a friendly, flexible space in the heart of Bath for co working, meetings, and events. stablished in ctober 2021, engen ouse is independently owned and passionate about providing a space where the diverse business community of Bath and beyond can come together. estled between ulteney Bridge and the olburne useum, it offers a range of flexible membership options for co working, from pay as you go to dedicated desks. here are also a range of meeting and event spaces available to hire for non members, as well as a regular calendar of events on offer, from networking, to sports events, to wellness workshops.
escribe the firm’s offices?
t engen ouse, our home from home environment feels comfortable rather than corporate and allows interaction with others with no pressure. It is a positive space that members look forward to coming to. he eorgian townhouse within which we are based has been beautifully restored, retaining all the charm of the building, whilst ensuring we offer our members all the modern facilities they expect from a fully e uipped office. e also have a large outside terrace, perfect for both outside working and sunny lunchbreaks.
What makes working in Bath special?
It is a joy to be a part of Bath s thriving business community. t engen ouse we see a full spectrum of businesses and individuals, from entrepreneurial start ups, to remote workers employed by national and global businesses, to some of Bath s most established employers. It is lovely to see how the local business community come together to support each other. f course, it also never gets boring working just a stone s throw from the beautiful sights, shops and food outlets that Bath has to offer
What sets the firm apart from others in its sector? engen ouse goes beyond conventional workspace offerings. ur focus is not only on providing a place to work, but ensuring that our members can benefit from social interaction, making connections and that they have an inspiring and productive environment to work from. e know that every co worker s needs are uni ue. hat s why we aim to offer the most flexible range of membership options. ll of our members also benefit from a host of valuable benefits, including unlimited hot and cold drinks, snacks and access to engen ouse events.
For more: 01225 532692; enquiries@rengenhouse.com; rengenhouse.com
ROSIE MARLOW
Rosie Marlow, Personal Estate Agent
Tell us about the firms charity an community involvement…
I walked 50km raising money for Cancer Research and completed a skydive last year for the Warminster branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society. This year I am taking part in the 100km walk raising money for Cancer Research and also completing a triathalon raising money for Action Medical Research for researching illness in young babies. I am also passionate about animals, and in my free time I work and support the Bristol and Wales cat rescue centre, dealing with sponsorship, trapping feral cats and driving cats to their new homes.
What sets the firm apart from others in its sector?
Many estate agents say that they give a ‘personal’ experience, but Rosie Marlow goes above and beyond. She knows this as her clients tell her so, describing her as ‘a legend’; ‘genuine, loyal and super efficient having ‘expertise and tenacity’ and always remaining ‘cheerful, committed and communicative’. Property selling and buying can be fraught with issues, setbacks and sometimes downright disasters, but Rosie rises to every challenge and never gives up in her quest to ensure a satisfactory conclusion is reached for all parties. This is helped by the fact our clients deal with one person from valuation to completion on their house sale or purchase. Reducing stress for her clients is something that Rosie and her team focus on at all times. They proactively keep everyone up to date - not just at key stages of the sale/purchase, but regularly throughout the process. No-one is left wondering if anything is happening, which can be very frustrating. Going above and beyond the normal
expectations of estate agents, Rosie has previously organised cleaners (so the purchasers could enjoy their family Christmas as completion was delayed to the day before Christmas Eve); often helps organise boiler services etc. if a surveyor states this is needed and she has even collected a client from a hospital appointment to ensure that completion occurred. That’s personal service. We are open seven days a week, we also offer viewings and valuation appointments out of normal office hours. e also meet all of our clients at the property on completion to hand over keys to their new home.
What is the most rewarding aspect of the firms work?
This has to be the amount of amazing feedback that we get from vendors and purchasers. We currently have over 110 ama ing five star google reviews. We mostly get told how stressful moving has been in the past and the fact there is somebody available at the end of the phone seven days a week who knows what is going on the stress is removed. It is so rewarding to know we make a huge difference when people are sometimes going through one of the most stressful periods of their lives.
For more: 01225 941008; rosie.marlow@exp.uk.com; rosiemarlow.exp.uk.com
SAVILLS BATH
Alistair Heather, Head of Savills Bath
What are going to be the topical issues for the sector in 2025?
Because of political and taxation changes, the property market endured a bumpy year last year, and some of this still needs ironing out. However, 2025 is the first in some years where we can see no obvious forks in the road to divide opinion on whether to move now or later. Sentiment among buyers and sellers is positive and with interest rates moving in the right direction, we should see a very busy year ahead.
What makes working in Bath special?
I have always wanted to work and live in the same area, and I couldn’t think of a better place to work than Bath. In many ways, it is more like a town than a city. It’s easy to get to know people and make friends, and I often bump in to clients, old and new. For me, Bath’s culture, architectural beauty and welcoming community are unrivalled anywhere else in the UK.
What wards has the firm or members of its team) won?
Last year Mia WhitbournVaughan won the Rising Star
award at the Bath Property Awards, and we were all incredibly proud of her. Mia grew up locally and went to school here in Bath. She joined Savills in 2022 as an apprentice, and thanks to her ambition, determination and clear passion for property, has moved through the ranks at great pace. It is a pleasure to see her building a name for herself as an excellent and trusty-worthy estate agent.
For more: 01225 474 500; savills.co.uk
Mia-Whitbourn-Vaughan with her Rising Star Award
SIMON LORD PROPERTY GROUP
Simon Lord
Tell us a little about the firm…
I am one of a team of independently owned and operated agents across the UK, supported by EXP, the international brokerage. I launched the business in March 2024. I am RICS ualified and work from serviced offices in Bath.
ow would you describe the difference between you and other agents? Experience; clients have the reassurance of engaging an agent who has a long-established record of high achievement in the industry and that my RICS membership binds me to a Code of Ethics.
Continuity; I offer a personal, start to finish service from valuation to key handover on moving day, I am the client’s contact. I maintain that commitment by limiting the number of houses I am trying to sell at any one time. This is a key reason why I achieve good results for my clients. ccountability as I m the one giving the advice at the outset, I then take personal responsibility for delivering on the expectations I’ve set for my client.
What awards have you won?
Before moving to Bath, my business partner and I won numerous awards for supporting charities and local schools, including a Surrey Mayor’s Award.
One of the most memorable was titled Striking the Balance awarded by the Local Authority for our employment policy, specifically that we retained our best talent through flexible working hours for our staff when they started a family.
This was in the 90’s, and was clearly regarded by the BBC as newsworthy, for I was invited to be interviewed on Radio 4 Woman’s Hour. Perhaps we were ahead of our time.
For more: 01225 941 181; simonlord.exp.uk.com
“CLIENTS HAVE THE REASSURANCE OF ENGAGING AN AGENT WHO HAS A LONGESTABLISHED RECORD OF HIGH ACHIEVEMENT IN THE INDUSTRY”
SRA ARCHITECTS
Luke Jerome
Tell us a little about the firm…
At SRA Architects, our aim is to help our clients realise their vision through our creative and open approach. We aspire to create innovative, beautiful and functional buildings which are suitable for today and for many years to come. We aim to maintain positive impacts and sustainable practice for people, planet and places through our everyday actions.
SRA Architects are a medium sized practice originally established in Bath, 1992. We comprise a dedicated team of 35, who’s creative approach, gives us the expertise and flexibility to design and manage award-winning projects across multiple disciplines and business sectors.
ow has the practice adapted to stay relevant?
As a B Corp we are now part of a global network of businesses that have committed to meeting verified high standards of social and environmental impact and have committed to accountability to balance both profit and purpose.
At SRA, we knew
we held ourselves to high standards, and were looking for a verifiable benchmark to measure ourselves against and to provide a framework for
our continued improvement in the future. In B Corp we believe we found just that.
Tell us about the firm’s commitments to and policies for sustainability?
We are all aware of the current climate and biodiversity global crises, the challenges we face and the risks of catastrophic damage to the natural world. For everyone working in construction and the built environment sector, meeting the needs of our societies within the earth’s ecological boundaries is demanding a radical shift in practice.
As signees of the ‘UK Architects Declare Climate and Biodiversity Emergency declaration’, SRA have made a firm commitment to create architecture that has a more positive impact on the world around us.
For more: 01225 827444; sra-architects.co.uk
SIMON LORD
We’re here to take make your accounts accurate, e icient, informative and compliant. Let Mutu make a di erence for you and your business.
Mutu Accountancy
Newark Works, Bath, BA2 3GZ 01225 582582 | hello@mutu.uk www.mutu.uk We are Mutu. Chartered Accountants based in the beautiful city of Bath
COULD YOUR BUSINESS WITHSTAND THE NEW FAMILY BUSINESS TAX?
It’s not just farmers who are impacted by the latest inheritance tax changes. Stephen Horton from HELEN STARKIE SOLICITOR explains…
Since October, farmers have been in the public eye a lot. You will very likely have seen the images of convoys of tractors driving through Westminster honking their horns in protest. This is all because changes to the inheritance tax rules made at the last budget will mean that, where previously a family-run farm would be completely exempt from inheritance tax on the owner’s death, that will no longer be the case from 6 April 2026.
What has been far less prevalent in the media coverage of those inheritance tax changes is that this will affect not just farms and farmers, but all privately run trading businesses.
THE CURRENT REGIME
If you own any type of business which makes its money through trade, whether that’s buying and selling goods or offering a service, anything (including farming), so long as it isn’t mostly concerned with holding investments like shares or rental properties and is not quoted on a recognised stock exchange, then, right now, you can leave that business to your children or anyone else you want to take it on, free of inheritance tax on your death.
OCTOBER BUDGET CHANGES
As of 6 April 2026, the inheritance tax picture for small businesses will be very different. Instead of being completely outside the scope of charge to inheritance tax, your family business will now be subject to tax. The first £1 million of value in the business will be able to pass tax free but anything which exceeds that could be taxed at 20 per cent.
The impact of this could be that for someone who has used up their inheritance tax nil rate band (more on those below) and who owns a £2.5 million business, their inheritance tax bill will increase by £300,000 overnight. Whilst it’s possible to pay that tax by instalments, that would mean their children finding £30,000 per year to pay to HMRC just to keep the family business going.
OTHER POTENTIAL TRAPS
There are some circumstances which could make the tax picture even worse for certain firms. One potential pitfall might be if the business owns a
“AS OF 6 APRIL 2026, THE INHERITANCE TAX PICTURE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES WILL BE VERY DIFFERENT ”
valuable asset which has not been used as part of the business for some time; it might be a piece of plant or machinery, a premises, or a cash surplus which isn’t earmarked for some future business purpose. In such a case that asset might fail to be covered by these business relief rules entirely meaning that the tax rate would double to 40 per cent.
PLANNING TO PROPERLY UTILISE AVAILABLE RELIEFS
There are further reliefs from inheritance tax which can alleviate the issue to some degree. Everyone has a nil rate band, a tax-free amount, of £325,000 to set against their estate on death. That nil rate band can be reduced if you make gifts in the seven years before death.
As well as that nil rate band, if a person has children or grandchildren and will be leaving their home to them, then another tax-free amount of £175,000 is potentially available. I wrote at length in Bath Life’s last issue about losing that if your estate exceeds £2 million.
So, it’s possible, in the right circumstances, for a person to have a tax-free threshold of £1.5 million if they have a business and are leaving
their home to their children. It’s possible then that a married couple might have £3 million between them to pass on to their children but it is vital to know that this is only possible with careful planning, it cannot happen automatically. There is a window of opportunity for anyone affected by these changes to put in place planning to maximise the availability of government approved tax reliefs to their estate and, in doing so, minimise the impact that inheritance tax will have on their children’s ability to carry on the family business.
At Helen Starkie we can help with all aspects of this careful planning and I would be more than happy to have a discussion with anyone who would like to know more.
Jacqui Bowden from Bath-based chartered accountants and tax advisers PEARSON MAY discusses the tax implications surrounding cryptoassets
M Revenue & Customs (HMRC) are continuing to send so-called ‘nudge letters’ to those individuals whom they believe may not have made full or appropriate disclosures of their taxable income and/or gains. One area that is often misunderstood is the tax implications of being invested, or having been invested, in cryptoassets. If you think this may apply to you then it is important that you tell HMRC before they get to you (in other words, don’t wait for the ‘nudge letter’!).
WHAT ARE CRYPTOASSETS AND WHEN MIGHT A TAX CHARGE ARISE ON THEM?
Cryptoassets (also referred to as ‘tokens’ or ‘cryptocurrency’, with one example being Bitcoin) are cryptographically secured digital representations of value or contractual rights that can be transferred, stored and traded electronically.
HMRC generally seeks to treat cryptoassets as a non-trading activity giving rise to a chargeable gain, chargeable to capital gains tax on an individual. The gains are calculated in the same way as a gain on shares, with tokens of the same type being pooled into their own pool.
“ THERE IS TO BE A DEDICATED SECTION ON THE 2025 TAX RETURN FOR REPORTING DISPOSALS OF CRYPTO ASSETS”
A taxable disposal of a cryptoasset generally takes place when it is:
• Sold
• Exchanged as a form of payment for good or services
• Exchanged for tokens in a different type of cryptoasset
• Gifted (subject to usual inter-spousal exemptions)
• Donated to charity and the donation is tainted
• Disposed of to charity resulting in a gain arising on the disponer.
This means that taxable gains on cryptoassets can often arise without disposal proceeds being realised from which tax liabilities can be paid. Such so-called ‘dry’ tax charges can cause financial difficulties so individuals should bear this in mind before undertaking any such transactions.
To date, HMRC generally expects that when an individual is holding cryptoassets, they are unlikely to be trading. However, as the trade in cryptoassets continues to increase, HMRC may well change their view and as ever, the tax position of the activities will depend on the facts in each particular case. If individuals or businesses purchase cryptoassets with the intention of generating profit and trading them regularly, there is bound to be an increased risk that HMRC would try to tax any profits to income tax (or corporation tax, as the case may be), rather than capital gains tax.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVEN’T DECLARED INCOME OR GAINS ON CRYPTOASSETS TO HMRC?
If you need to report income or gains on cryptoassets that relate to the 2024/25 tax year then these should be included on your tax return for that year in due course, which will usually be due for submission by 31 January 2026 (which is also the date by which any tax in relation to such income or gains should be paid). There is to be a dedicated section on the 2025 tax return for reporting disposals of crypto assets.
For any income or gains relating to the previous tax year ended 5 April 2024, there is still time to amend a previously submitted tax return for that year and you should be able to do this up to 31 January 2026 (although penalties and interest may still be payable).
For any income or gains on cryptoassets relating to earlier tax years, voluntary disclosures should be made to HMRC as soon as possible, to report such historical tax liabilities and to mitigate interest and penalties thereon. If you believe you might have undeclared income or gains in connection with cryptoassets and don’t make a voluntary disclosure before HMRC write to you, you could suffer penalties of up to 100 per cent of the unpaid tax or even face criminal prosecution. Even higher penalties potentially apply to matters involving offshore income or gains. HMRC already has access to the contact details of those trading on crypto platforms and going forward crypto platforms will need to start sharing taxpayer information with tax authorities.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you are concerned that you may have overlooked income or gains arising from these assets, or indeed any other sources of income and/ or gains. We can advise you on the most appropriate course of action, in order to bring your tax affairs up to date.
The above is for general guidance only and no action should be taken without obtaining specific advice.
Jacqui Bowden ACA Pearson May Chartered Accountants & Chartered Tax Advisers Bath, Chippenham and Trowbridge
Thirteen projects have been shortlisted for RIBA South West & Wessex Awards 2025. This includes two local projects: A House of Wood Shingle by Forgeworks Architects, is a 1950’s Bath bungalow that has had the entire exterior wrapped in a natural cedar cladding and its interior spaces reconfigured to create a highly insulated energy e cient family home nd in rome, he rchards by re ett Bizley Architects, is a new low-energy, lowcarbon purpose built house for a young family Rob Gregory, RIBA South West & Wessex jury chair and head of campus planning and design at University of Bristol, says, ith nine homes in contention this year, domestic architecture in the outh est
region remains as strong as e er his year’s shortlist showcases a wide range of projects, from stand alone ne builds, to holistic transformations of e isting properties, and discrete extensions.
“Alongside these, the jury is looking forward to visiting new workplaces, cultural venues and community housing, on a carefully choreographed journey that extends over 135 miles from the suburbs of ath, to the far reaches of West Cornwall.”
All projects shortlisted for RIBA Awards will be visited by a regional jury, and the winning projects will be announced later this spring.
For more: www.architecture.com
ABOVEANDRIGHT: The Orchards in Frome; LEFT: Bath’s house of wood shingle
Community STAGE DOORS
Theatre Royal Bath has received planning permission for Venue 4, a brand-new community studio theatre for the public on St John’s Place. Subject to a fundraising campaign, Venue 4 will be a new home for Theatre Royal Bath’s Engage, an adult participation programme that o ers a range of opportunities for local people wishing to create new shows, rehearse or perform in front of an audience.
Theatre Royal Bath director, Danny Moar says, “Theatre Royal Bath is bursting at the seams and our growing work with the community deserves a stage of its own. This project is about opening doors to a new community theatre for Bath, to anyone keen to get started in the world of performance. This creates an exciting access point into the Theatre Royal Bath operation, our sta and the ider professional eco-system. This will be a stage where everyone’s story can be told.”
For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk
Regeneration POSITIVE NEWS
A team of engineers, architects and researchers from the University of Bath has published a manifesto on ‘regenerative’ design and engineering, providing a guide to confronting the climate crisis and creating ‘net positive’ buildings, technologies and systems.
RENEW: a manifesto for regenerative design and engineering aims to demystify the regenerative concept and unites se eral e isting definitions of the idea, making a case for the approach to be widely adopted by professionals in engineering, architecture, and other disciplines as well as by government and industry decision makers.
Professor Sukumar Natarajan, director of RENEW, says “Regenerative design and engineering envisions a world where human activities restore and enhance natural systems, and create resilient, fair communities that can thrive in balance with nature, while improving standards of living.
“We need to go beyond Net Zero, to embrace ‘Net Positive’ design, construction, manufacturing or creation of goods, if e are to deli er actual benefits to society, planet and people.”
To download the manifesto for free visit the University of Bath website and search for RENEW. For more: www.bath.ac.uk
RIGHT: How the street view, interior, and the stage of Venue 4 might look
RENEW Directors Dr Juliana Calabria-Holley, Prof Sukumar Natarajan and Dr Emma Emanuelsson
EXPERT ADVICE FOR NAVIGATING THE RENTERS’ RIGHTS LEGISLATION
BATH STONE PROPERTY shares advice forlandlords worried about the changing times ahead, minimising the stress and worry of being compliant with your tenancy.
Are you ready for the Renters’ Rights Bill? There has been a lot of discussion about the Renters Rights Bill recently. The reform poses significant changes for the UK housing sectors as new reforms aim to transform renters’ rights and landlord accountability. Here’s a breakdown of key aspects and potential impacts:
ABOLISH SECTION 21 EVICTIONS
The bill seeks to remove the ability for landlords to evict tenants without a specific reason (‘no fault’ evictions). Landlords will be required to provide tenants with at least 12 months of tenancy before serving notice, even if they want to sell the property.
PERIODIC TENANCIES
All assured tenancies will become periodic, meaning there will be no fixed-term contracts, and tenants can leave with proper notice.
“ GOING THROUGH INDUSTRY CHANGES CAN BE STRESS-FREE WITH THE RIGHT EXPERTS ON YOUR SIDE”
ENHANCED TENANT SECURITY
The changes aim to provide tenants with more security and empower them to challenge poor practices and unfair rent increases without fear of eviction.
REFORMING LANDLORD POSSESSION GROUNDS
The bill will reform the grounds on which landlords can seek possession of a property, requiring increased notice periods and potentially making it more difficult for landlords to evict tenants.
NEW RULES ON RENT INCREASES
Landlords will need to follow a specific procedure for rent increases, and there will be no rent review clauses.
Going through industry changes can be stressfree with the right experts on your side. Speak to one of the Bath Stone Property team to ensure you are ready and your tenancy can continue to be fully compliant.
Bath Stone Property, Bath Branch 01225 422224
Midsomer Norton Branch 01761 360144
www.bathstoneproperty.com
lettings@bathstoneproperty.com
Sue-Ellen, lettings manager
Sarah, company director Anna, company director
’ charming to nhouse on one of ath’s lesser kno n strips of Georgian terrace, combining winning design with glorious period detail and a relati ely accessible price, too
By Paul Marland
When you think of Bath, you think eorgian fi e storeys, high ceilings, sash windows, two big rooms on each floor ighly co etable, of course, and e eryone kno s it hich is hy they come ith such significant price tags, of t o million, t o and a half, more ut hat if you can’t uite run to that, yet ha e fallen in lo e ith the idea of gracious eorgian li ing to the e tent that nothing else ill do any ay appily, there’s still a ay into this sort of lifestyle, and it just necessitates a little compromise not on si e, not on style, but on location ou’ll ha e to forget the northern slopes, the amden rescents and t ames’s uares, and look else here like ercy lace, a short,
“A pair of large housevaults a cinema room and a snug”
elegant Grade II listed Georgian terrace surrounded by similarly impressi e buildings and just a flat mile or so from central ath es, it’s on the ondon oad edged in bet een those similarly grand strips of terrace kno n as ros enor lace and ensington lace hich has its disad antages, nearly all tra c related, but ad antages too easy access out of the city at least if you’re heading east , and the ennet and on canal, lice ark and all the fun of arkhall right on your doorstep
o much of the best of eorgian ath as built around amden rescent and reat ulteney treet had just been completed, ansdo n rescent was well under way, and all along the main artery into the city from, ell, ondon the first curtains ere being put up at handsome terraces on the south side of the road, and much of the north side too ercy lace has the classic Georgian layout – more on that in a mo and is particularly handsome and lo able e ample of the breed, ith pleasing original features e ery here giant indo s, intricate fireplaces, period frescoes and
painted panels, and a particularly striking stone staircase. Set nicely back from the street and largely hidden from it by hedges, the front door opens into a gorgeous be-frescoed hallway leading to a spacious front room with a period fireplace currently used as a playroom, this could easily be converted into library, formal dining room, or whatever you fancy) and beyond that to a large, light filled sitting room ith a fantastic ie of the garden and valley beyond, framed by impressive sash windows with shutters.
oing things the ay the eorgians did though perhaps with slightly fewer servants), the kitchen/ dining room remains on the lo er ground floor, a bespoke a air ith e appliances, built in ine fridges, a large island, a generous refectory table and French doors opening out onto said 75ft garden, a charming combination of paved areas, decking, lawn and small trees, perfect for outdoor entertaining. There’s a loo and bathroom/utility down here too, and a couple of large and useful storerooms, but what really
makes this floor e tra special are the t o large vaults, housing a cinema room and a snug, and opening onto a small courtyard. The stone staircase that’s the backbone of the house leads up to the first floor, here a spacious drawing room with treetop views connects to a stylish study ith charming and beautifully preser ed painted panels of assorted e otic birds
HOUSE NUMBERS
For more, Knight Frank, 4 Wood Street, Queen Square; knightfrank.co.uk
Up again and we get to two levels of bedrooms: the second floor features a pair of these, both of good size and with the principal bedroom boasting both an en suite and views out across the Meadows to the on p again, and the third floor completes things with two additional bedrooms – each with a period fireplace and a large family bathroom ith roll top bath and rain shower.
This really is the perfect Georgian house conversion: the proportions are timeless, the details restrained but intriguing, the modern comforts blending into period detail seamlessly. Even better, you might just be able to a ord it
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 fi all stone re uirements for ne builds or e tensions he team’s heritage skills ualified stonemasons are also e pert in repairing and restoring e isting stone on listed properties in order to fulfil planning re uirements o ndar arm err e d e s am 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 ser ice 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, reflecting her clients’ lifestyles and personalities Te www.jennifermosse.com
BROADLEAF
Broadleaf are the UK’s leading manufacturer and retailer of beautiful ood flooring, ith a uni ue and unrivalled range of solid and engineered plank and par uet pen since their e tensi e ath showroom showcases the complete collection. Visit their e pert, friendly team to find inspiration, discuss your project and pick up samples. a ot 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. ort arade i din s at Te www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk
TILE & FLOOR or o er years, ile loor has been synonymous with the supply of a range of top-tier design-led materials and professional installation ser ices ur commitment to uality has forged enduring relationships with discerning homeowners overseeing their personal projects, as well as with design and construction professionals ser ing the property industry citing ne s e are no also con eniently located at hippenham Te www tileand oor co uk
CLAIR STRONG INTERIOR DESIGN
lair trong nterior esign is a bouti ue, creati e company based in Bath, providing a wide range of services for both residential and commercial clients er portfolio of projects includes the design, project coordination and sourcing for some of Bath’s most beautiful residences, as ell as hotels, sports clubs, o ces and other commercial venues. onta t air on or www clairstrong co uk
MENDIP FIREPLACES BATH
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NEIL COOK
The
creative director and novelist looks back at his childhood, and ahead to a dystopian future
By day, Neil Cook creates content campaigns for global brands, and by night he writes dystopian novels. Neil, who is originally from Warrington and now lives in Larkhall, was inspired to write his debut novel Nuncle, whilst expecting his first child and he began to think about the kind of world being left for future generations.
Nuncle follows the journey of Alice, a young girl who was raised in London and then moves to a remote farm in the Scottish Highlands. It portrays a dystopian vision of the future in which climate change has destroyed both the planet and society.
I liked the school-work, but I didn’t like school. I found the work quite easy. But raising your hand to answer a question in class marked you out as a target. At break times and lunchtimes I ran a gamut of physical bullying.
Being clever was all I had; I wasn’t particularly good at sport and, even for the NorthWest in the 70s, my family were what they called ‘hard up’. So the penny dropped early for me that, if I was going to do anything with my life, I had to get an education.
I remember writing a ghost story at primary school. I drew an illustration of a bloody dagger sticking out of the chest
“If I was going to do anything with my life, I had to get an education”
of a Tudor era nobleman in my workbook. I think they sent a letter home after that. By secondary school I was staying up late in my bedroom and riting a science fiction epic in a series of notebooks.
I did all kinds of jobs before I got into professional writing. Kitchen porter, chamber-person, barman. And I didn’t dislike any of them. Kitchen porter meant got an all you can eat bu et breakfast at the end of every shift, and being a barman speaks for itself! There’s fun to be had doing almost anything if you can just find it
I was drawn to advertising because it was a way to use my creativity and get paid. And there aren’t many financially iable ays to earn a living as a writer. But it’s also about collaborating with people to solve problems and that’s really fun when the creative sparks fly riting no els requires you to sit alone and delve deep into yourself.
I write dystopian fiction because, frankly, I find anything else trite. How can you be a writer today and not be absorbed in, and terrified by, what we’re doing to the planet? We’re walking blindly over a cli like lemmings e still act like climate catastrophe is something far in the future, and far a ay rite dystopian fiction because it’s my testament of what’s to come.
My biggest career achievement is, without doubt, completing Nuncle.
My biggest regret is that I allowed myself to be distracted by the o er of an ad ertising job in just as I found an agent for Nuncle. By the time I’d completed the second draft and returned from , the agent as no longer interested, and I had to plough on by myself.
I live in Larkhall and I love it. It’s got the soul of a village, and all the amenities a village should have – independent butcher, baker, bookshop, café, pet shop, theatre, pub, all your daily needs can be met there. Yet at the same time it’s an easy walk into Bath ‘proper’ when you want a bit more scale and variety.
Our favourite family walk is to do ‘all the crescents’. We walk up to yon ill ia ansdo n Crescent and Somerset Place, cut down to Victoria Park via the allotments, skirt the bottom of the Royal Crescent and then alk back to arkhall ia Camden Crescent. It’s a lovely circular walk that takes in some breathtaking views and the city’s unique architecture.
I have a Folio Society limited edition of The Lord of the Rings trilogy still in its plastic wrapping. It will never leave its plastic rapping hile , in flesh and blood, walk this earth.
