Bath Life - issue 321

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property @BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 321 / 2 – 16 SEPTEMBER 2016 / £3

ISSUE 321 / 2 – 16 SEPTEMBER 2016 / CIT Y HOTSPOTS

F A B U L O U S

OUR PICK OF THE CITY’S BEST BITS RIGHT NOW F A M O U S F A C E S AT B AT H C H I L D R E N ’ S L I T E R AT U R E F E S T I VA L

E D U C AT I N G B AT H : T H E C I T Y ’ S TOP SCHOOLS

T O P I TA L I A N FEASTING JOINTS

DOMINIC COOPER’S DARK SIDE

L A D I E S ’ D AY 2 0 1 6 IN PICTURES

INTO THE BLUE: AU T U M N ’S M O O DY H U E S

PHOTO BY HELEN GRAINGER (@HELENLUCYLOVES VIA @IGERSBATH)

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 321 / 2 – 16 SEPTEMBER 2016

Best of Bath

CITY HOTSPOTS

We all know how vibrant, exciting and downright brilliant Bath is, but, even so, it’s nice to remind ourselves from time to time just how exceptional the city is. So, in this week’s issue, we’ve dedicated seven pages to all of its most fabulous parts – from the historic, timeless hotspots, to the inspired business and independent boutiques that make the city tick (page 30).

Elsewhere, Dominic Cooper (you know, that actor from multi-million pound blockbusters like Mamma Mia! and Captain America) tells us about his dark and twisted side, which he’ll reveal at the Theatre Royal Bath this month when he stars in The Libertine (page 50). And, on a similar, starstudded note, we catch up with the founders of Bath Children’s Literature Festival who give us the lowdown on the big names visiting the city next month which include David Walliams, Julian Clary and Clare Balding (page 54).

That’s not all, we’ve also been trying out the interesting ingredients – think sea urchins and music paper bread – that are being served up by head chefs in the city’s top Italian restaurants right now (page 66); eaten our way through 15 small-plates at The Richmond Arms (page 60); visited an old rectory which has been converted into a stunning home (page 124); and shopped for moody autumn shades to celebrate the season ahead. Enjoy...

Bath, how do we love thee?

Let us count the ways...

Lisa Evans, Editor Follow us on Twitter: @BathLifeMag

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Follow us on Instagram:@bathlifemag

BONITI

NATURAL STONE FLOORING

TIMBER FLOORING

PLEASE SEND ENQUIRIES TO SHOWROOM@BONITI.COM 01225 892 200 WWW.BONITI.COM

EVERHOT RANGE COOKERS

GARDEN FURNITURE

FEATURES / ISSUE 321 / 2 - 16 SEPTEMBER 2016

Making meals the Mediterranean way at Aió Sardinia

66

TASTE TEST

We find Bath’s Italian restaurants go way beyond the usual run-of-the-pepper-mill pizza and pasta offerings

76

Education special Learn a thing or two about our outstanding local schools

REGULARS / ISSUE 321 / 2 - 16 SEPTEMBER 2016 M E ET T H E T EAM

THE ARTS

Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk

41 Arts intro A celebration of the life of sculptor Kenneth Armitage

Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: David Flatman, Roy Newport and @IgersBath on Instagram Senior advertising manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Justine Walker justine.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Sales executive Sophie Speakman sophie.speakman@mediaclash.co.uk

42 What’s on Time to update the events diary

50 Star interview Dominic Cooper talks debauchery at the Theatre Royal

54 Literature The 10th Bath Children’s Literature Festival comes to town

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Christina West christina.west@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Charlie Pinder charlie.pinder@mediaclash.co.uk

FOOD 60 Restaurant Hands up if you love The Richmond Arms? Ours are raised.

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Steve Hawkins steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk

70 Food & drink news Bath goes nuts, Frome gets cheesy and students learn to cook

SHOPPING

Bath Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash

95 Shopping The international range Santoro Retail has its one and only store right here on Milsom Street

96 Editor’s choice Blue-sky thinking for gorgeous accessories

LIFEST YLE 101 Health and beauty The Beyond Beauty salon totally nail it

© All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

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About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury.

We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag).

Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help.

Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

BUSINESS

PROPERT Y

DEPARTMENTS

113 Business insider

124 Property showcase

13 16 25 138

The latest news, views and interviews from Bath’s professionals

We’re knock, knock, knocking on the Beaven’s door with this showstopper

Spotlight Society A man’s world Bath lives

On the cover A rare view of empty Bath Street on a quiet early morning before the crowds descend upon it.

Photograph by Roy Newport.

See page 30 for the feature

Steve considers his Wiggy Stardust look

BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES

Marc’s stunning fashion shoot at Cleveland Pools

MUSIC

DIAMOND GUYS When a group of 12 Bath and Bristolbased musician friends talked about putting on a fun, low-key gig to celebrate their mutual love of David Bowie, they had no idea just how far their collective thinking would get them.

“When Bowie died earlier this year we knew we had to do something,” explains Steve Evans, who has staged shows at the Royal Festival Hall and is providing the lead vocals. “But the project really began to escalate when a friend of ours passed away leaving the children without parents; this was a way of raising money and paying our respects.”

The Bowie Collective, as they are called, will play at Komedia on 23 September featuring legendary classics such as Space Oddity and Let’s Dance along with video projections. “The most fun bit for me was working with the Shepperton Wig Company to help me become Bowie on the outside. We’ve all got our sights set on performing the best tribute to Bowie on the planet.”

For more: www.komedia.co.uk

T050

HERITAGE WEEK

POOLS WIN Although the Cleveland Pools in Bathwick have not reopened, they recently became the magnificent backdrop for a shoot by fashion and music photographer Marc Aitken. Marc, who lives in Bath and has worked with artists including Noel Gallagher and Goldfrapp, explains, “The idea was ‘a crack in time’”. The model represents the present and the mysterious figure in the archway is Captain Evans, who ran the pools in the 1800s, who would be thrown into the pools in just a top hat and a cape and would mysteriously

appear on the opposite bank fully clothed in formal attire reading the paper. Staging the actual shoot was a formidable undertaking as the boat had to be lifted over a fence from the river. Add in smoke machines, dry ice, football stadium floodlights and getting the model in and out of the boat in heels, and you have the makings of quite a day.”

The latest restoration plans for the pools, which are the oldest in the country, can be visited as part of the Heritage Open Days in Bath from 8 – 11 September.

For more:www.clevelandpools.org.uk

SPOTLIGHT

TOURISM

GUIDES ON PARADE

The Bath Parade Guides play tourist at the Pump Rooms

Bath Parade Guides celebrated 40 years of providing professional guided walks and tours in and around Bath with a dinner at the Pump Rooms.

“It was a great opportunity for all of us to get together and mark the occasion,” explains Bath Parade Guide Sue Norris. “It was also a fun chance to have our own photo taken like a tourist!”

The group of 14, who are all trained, examined and registered with the Institute of Tourist Guiding which awards the highly acclaimed Blue Badge, can provide tours in English, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, German and Dutch as well as theme them in subjects including film locations, architecture, religion and music.

For more: www.bathparadeguides.co.uk

Paul is raising money for the charity that helps him

CHARITY

MEMORY WALK

Somerset Open Studios is back, bigger, brighter and more beautiful than ever and runs from 17 September – 2 October. This year the evnt stretches all over the county, with more than 300 artists taking part in the trail.

“Disciplines range from stone-carving and metalwork to textiles, wood, jewellery, furniture, glass and mixed media,” explains artist Fiona Campbell whose large sculptural work created with Nick Weaver, which won gold and best artisan garden at Chelsea Flower Show this year, will be on display in Cranmore, near Frome.

“Visitors will get the chance to meet the artist face-to-face in their studio, home or temporary work space, browse and buy, or place a personal commission for a special piece.”

Bath will be holding its first ever Memory Walk for the Alzheimer’s Society on 18 September, and two of the walkers taking part are Tracey and Paul Seymour. The couple from Midsomer Norton, who have been married for 33 years, know all too well the effects of living with dementia.

“When Paul was diagnosed with youngonset Alzheimer’s two years ago, it came as total shock as he was only 54, and, like a lot of people, I thought it only affected the elderly,” explains Tracey. “With the help of Alzheimer’s Society, we are adjusting to life and Paul is determined to continue working as a labourer as we still have a mortgage to pay.”

The event hopes to bring together 2,500 walkers, starting at Bath Recreation Ground, with all the money raised going towards providing vital care and support services for people currently living with dementia, and also funding research projects to ultimately find a cure.

For more: www.somersetartworks.org.uk

For more: www.memorywalk.org.uk

ART TRAIL

ART OF THE MATTER

Fiona Campbell and Nick Weaver’s garden sculpture

Adventures in party-going

Emma Chapman and Emily Ceurvorst

SCENE

Helen Smith and Gemma Oldacre

AC ROS S B AT H , O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

ON THE RIGHT TRACK Despite the slightly blustery weather, Ladies’ Day at Bath Racecourse was a wonderful celebration of racing tips meeting style tips on 20 August. Attended by over 5,000 fashion favourite racegoers, Mary Heron was first past the post winning the Best Dressed Lady award.

Photos by Derryn Vranch www.derrynvranch.com

The crowd enjoy the race

Georgie Dodwell, Laura Birkett and Sophie Cruise

Antonia Lilley, Lorelle Ayrton, Maggie Joslin, and Georgia Courtenay

Ella Massey, Karla Dowding and Naomi Coates

16 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Carla Punton, Lucy Smart, Rory Davies and Victoria Davies

SOCIETY

Gemma Bolton, Katherine O’Brian and Joanne Sheeran

PHOTO BY PAOLO FERLA

Bethany Caley, Jessica Hall, Matthew Crouch, Emily Hobbis, Lucy Gray and Morgan Taylor

Pippa Russell and Mary Heron Steve Oliver

Georgina Clifford, Kim Harris and Ella Flint

Lynne Evans, Zoe Powney and Emma Makepeace

Jason Paddam and Kate Liamzinaite Viv Caddick, Zoe Kelly and Jodie Caddick

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

TEAM PLAYERS

Emilia Paget. Olly Paget, Ellen Turner and Alex Paget

Creative Bath organised a fun day on 14 August at Monkton Combe playing fields to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 1966 World Cup with friendly football tournaments, waterslides and a bouncy castle.

Winners were the Brew House team, playing as Brewzil. Voodoo Q provided the food, and Honey’s Midford Cider, the post-match drinks.

Michael Freya and Katie Godfrey

Photos by Beata Cosgrove www.beatacosgrovephotography.com

The participating 14 football teams

Chris Curwen

David Reid, Giles White and Sarah White

18 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Darren Gay, Brian Bishop, Mark Vipond and Kant Mann

SOCIETY

MARKET FORCES Kingsmead Square’s newly formed Traders Association came together on 13 August to host a bustling, busy and vibrant Summer Mini Market, which was packed with gorgeous goodies for sale and happy customers. The Best of British Deli served up a delicious BBQ, while The Dark Horse served Pimm’s, punch and cold beer.

Judith Nash Damien and Mike Sawyer

Photos by Jeni Meade www.jeni-meade-photography.com

Alice Bowyer, Sarah Greenwell and Cat Nickless

Sareeka Linton, Milanda Surdonja and Himalee Tailor Ivana Balgova and Martin Nosek

Louis Lewis-Smith Emma Savage

Alan Bennett and Sam Shannon

20 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SOCIETY

BUSINESS MATTERS The Federation of Small Businesses Bath Branch, which promotes small businesses nationally and locally, held their Annual Summer Social event for members, non-members and VIP guests at the Adventure Cafe recently. Prosecco, sparkling cranberry mocktails and mini pizzas were served and the guest speaker was Ben Howlett MP.

Graham Harrison and Isabel Saiz

John Lyddy and Ian Brown

Photos by Angela MacAusland

Anita Jaynes, Kate Keenan and Sian Swift Ben Howlett, Angela MacAusland and Tim Newark

Dariusz Szymanczuk, Naomi Summers and James Currant

Steve Haines, Lisa Weeks and Simon Roberts

Justin Hayes and Joan Hayes Peter Hayes, Nick and Jenny Cudworth, Carole Waller and Gary Wood

22 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Modern Furniture.

Designed over decades Find out more at www.foresttohome.comÂ

A MAN’S WORLD

DAVID FLATMAN

SUMMER MELTDOWN Flats ditches the rose-tinted specs and tells us what really happens during ‘perfect’ summer holidays…

Y

ou know those people who relentlessly post impossibly happy pictures of themselves and their perfect family units but who are, in reality, every bit as knackered and ill-tempered as the rest of us? Well, on holiday, I am that reprehensible git.

I mean, not every picture I post on social media or nauseatingly blissful reply to a ‘how’s your holiday’ enquiry is fake, but I do tend to leave out the more imperfect sections of what was, overall, an admittedly decent trip.

I didn’t think to show Twitter much of the 48-hour period I spent wheezing and snorting as my pathetically aggressive strain of hay fever gripped me like the influenza of the 18th century. Nor did I reach for my phone to photographically document what 4.45am in South Devon looked like as our kids rose, with a holiday-induced excitement that lasted the entire bloody trip, and decided they wanted to play dollies.

These brutally early mornings meant that this was a holiday on which we did not sleep. Visions of late night wine binges with nearby friends were annihilated as we did our best, with kids finally washed and snoring, to stay awake for a particular Olympic event before crumbling into bed. These timings also meant that, by about 10am every day, either Mrs F or I were in mortal need of some kip, but were instead battling to get out of he house for yet another day on the beach with 15 other people, all of whom were patiently waiting for us to arrive.

Then, the worst bit. The infant meltdown. Kids need sleep. Ours

don’t get it, no matter what we try. So, after a whole day going nuts in the sea with their mates, their heads go. Like, properly go. I even went online one night and searched for ‘how to tranquillise children,’ before realising I was likely making computer alarms beep and scream at New Scotland Yard, and subsequently logging off.

But we dug in and did have some tremendous fun. One of the best bits was going to drop anchor for the first time at a little beach in our new boat (which we can barely control) and realising the anchor was not in fact attached to anything. Good stuff. Cue a crash course in how to drive a boat for Mrs F and cue me scrambling and fiddling with ropes and chains and anchors while shrieking at my poor wife to avoid the clearly visible rocks three yards from our spinning propeller. Add to this traumatic scene the actual sailing competition that was happening all around us, and the stress was quadrupled. So unenjoyable was this situation that the old man in the little sailing boat who shouted an utterly impolite and unnecessary ‘move!’ as we floated all flustered was told exactly where he ought next to steer his boat. It turns out my wife can intimidate other men, too.

After all this realness, though, we will look back and laugh. Well, at most of it. But we’ll only laugh once we’ve caught up on some sleep so it’s time to offload our perfect, cute, academically gifted, kind, modelpretty kids and hit the hay. What a holiday. Perfectly exhausting.

IT TURNS OUT MY WIFE CAN INTIMIDATE OTHER MEN, TOO

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

Fabulous

FIFTY There are so many more that we could fit on this list, but here are a mere 50 reasons why we love Bath – from the microbreweries and taste tours to the city’s Escape Rooms and street performers

By L I SA E VA NS

PHOTO BY LLOYD EVANS (@ALKA.LLOYD ON INSTAGRAM)

BEST OF B AT H

1TOWER TOURS

Go behind the scenes and look at the Bath Abbey from a very different perspective on a Tower Tour; you’ll visit the ringing and bell chambers, stand on top of the vaulted ceiling, sit behind the clock face and, once up on the roof, you’ll have a spectacular vantage point over the city.

SIX TOURS 2…ANOTHER TO TRY …

B AT H G HO S T T O U RS Luring the brave via the city’s most historic buildings, guides will take you through the darkened streets while regaling you with eerie, true and unexplainable tales.

S IG N AT U R E B AT H T OURS Forget the ‘obvious’ hotspots, if you fancy a tour that takes you off the beaten track, then try this one out for size. Plus, you’re professionally photographed along the way and you take home your own bespoke souvenir photo book.

F R A N KE N S T E IN IN B AT H To mark the 200th anniversary of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, a special nightly theatrical walking tour of Bath, where much of the novel was written, is being held until 30 September.

B AT H S KY L I N E Trek through history, from an Iron Age hill fort to 18th-century follies, and stroll through hidden valleys, woodlands and patchworks of small meadows, all rich in wildlife.

B I Z A R R E B AT H On this comedy trail, experience mysteries, thrills, and surprises that stretch the traditional image of the city. Less historical, more hysterical.

S AV O U R IN G B AT H Try a taste-tour of Bath and discover its food heroes and local flavours. w The city’s theatrical Frankenstein in Bath walking tour

The glorious view from the top of Bath Abbey

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 31

BEST OF B AT H

3CLEVELAND POOLS

The country’s only surviving Georgian lido, in Bathwick, is being restored to its former glory to give future generations the chance to bathe with the elements – there’s just the small matter of raising enough money for the project to get under way (see page 13 for more).

STREETS IN THE 4QUIET EARLY MORNINGS

Bath may be a bustling tourist city, but if you wake up early enough to find the pavements bare, it’s a beautiful sight.

Would Bath really be Bath without the sounds of jazz, opera and acoustics adding vibrancy to the city centre?

6BATH RUGBY AT THE REC

For fans, there’s no better way to spend a Friday night than at the Rec under the lights.

We’re looking forward to seeing how the team gets on under the leadership of Todd Blackadder (see page 115 for more).

ARTISTS AND 7STREET PERFORMERS

Whether it’s Peter Brown (or, as most of us know him, Pete the Street) out in all weathers with his easel and paints capturing his latest city scene, or a freakishly still living statue, you can’t walk from one end of town to the other without seeing something distinctly arty.

PHOTO BY ROY NEWPORT

5BUSKERS

8GEORGE BAYNTUN

Above: A suave Bath busker lightening the mood on Union Street; Below: all-weather painter of street scenes and city landscapes, Peter Brown

On Manvers Street lies one of the world’s most famous bookshops which specialises in fine bindings, first and illustrated editions, and antiquarian and unusual books.

…ANOTHER THREE 9 HEROICALLY INDEPENDENT

BOOKSTORES TO TRY …

• Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath • Mr B's Emporium of Reading Delights • The Oldfield Park Bookshop

10THE CHEQUERS BATH

Keep your eyes peeled for the next supper club this side of Christmas at The Chequers with new head chef Rupert Taylor who previously worked at Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck.

11BATH ESCAPE ROOMS PHOTO BY ROY NEWPORT

Using nothing but your logic and imagination, and racing against the clock, you must escape through a series of locked doors, uncover clues and solve puzzles in this interactive experience on Princes Street.

32 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

FACES OF WALCOT 12THE STREET

The artisan quarter of Walcot Street is home to over 30 comic, realistic and mythical faces, which have been hand-carved in Bath stone. Some of the faces were first installed over 30 years ago, with new faces of living local characters being added as part of an art project to encourage visitors to the area. w

BEST OF B AT H

13

ARCHITECTURAL GEMS

Too many to mention here; three of our favourites, though, are The Circus, Bath Abbey and Pulteney Bridge.

14BATH CITY FARM 15BATH RACECOURSE A great day out with the kids.

With its new grandstand and multimillion pound refurbishment, the racecourse is now one of the smartest smaller racecourses in the country with some stunning event facilities.

16HOT AIR BALLOONS

They’re an integral and beautiful part of the Bath landscape between March and October.

A stunning sunset over one of our favourite architectural gems, Pulteney Bridge

17HASSLACHER’S

They began in 2011 as a small start-up based on Gay Street (where they remain to this day) and now the business, which specialises in solid hot chocolate, sells to high-end national retailers as well as to independents in Bath. After appearing on BBC’s Dragons’ Den, their sales went up by 1000 per cent and in their second year they shipped over 60 tons of hot chocolate.

...ANOTHER THREE 18 SWEET TREATS TO TRY… A L I T T L E P I E C E & L OV E From bespoke vinyl album replicas to gaming consoles, all made out of chocolate may we add, this Bath indie business in Combe Down melds innovation and deliciousness seamlessly.

CHARLOT TE BRUNSWICK Inspired by 18th century creations, this chocolatier on Church Street stocks high-end chocolates, and each box comes with a short story explaining its origin and back story, which is nicely tied in with the local history.

PHOTO BY GEORGE WOODFORD (@MUTINYONTHEBOUNTY ON INSTAGRAM)

S A N F R A N C I S C O F U D G E FAC T O R Y At the independent, family-run business on Church Street, you’ll find wall-to-wall fudge in more flavours than imaginable – from pistachio, chilli, and white chocolate pavlova, to cherry brandy and Irish cream – which they handmake in Bath every single day.

34 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

BEST OF B AT H

19SCHOOLS 20FLAB DESIGN

Parents are spoilt for choice (see page 76 for more).

Damien Sawyer, the owner of the business, hand-makes his personalised 3D wall art and cards which will be at this year’s Bath Christmas Market.

…ANOTHER SIX 21 ARTISTIC TYPES WE ADMIRE…

23MICROBREWERIES

As well as the likes of Bath Ales and Abbey Ales, there’s the artisan craft beer specialist Electric Bear Brewing Co. on Brassmill Lane; and The Bath Brew House (a pub which brews its own produce) on James Street West.

THEATRE 24NATURAL COMPANY

Based in Bath, the company has been making people laugh in nearly 80 countries for 45 years with their unique style of visual comedy and delightfully absurd walkabout, interactive street theatre.

25LITTLE THEATRE CINEMA The 1930s style venue on St Michael’s Place is full of character and is the perfect picturehouse at which to catch a premiere.

…ANOTHER 13 26 ENTERTAINMENT VENUES TO TRY… • • • • • • •

Komedia Theatre Royal Bath The egg Rondo Theatre Ustinov Studio Kilter Theatre The Forum, Bath

• • • • • •

Iford Manor Bath Pavilion The Nest Moles Chapel Arts Centre The Mission Theatre

28SHINE AND SPARKLE PHOTO BY SALLY BENNETT (@SALLYSAW THIS ON INSTAGRAM)

A passing horse and carriage, or a crowd dressed in Regency clothing seems quite normal here.

The Bath Half Marathon is one of the biggest of its kind in the country, and, for 2017, it’s being sponsored by Bath Life magazine.

The jewellery stores in the city are true treasure troves. There are the eye-catching costume pieces at Alexandra May on Brock Street; the ethically sourced items at Treaty on Hetling Court; and luxury brands at Mallory.

You’ll often see the designers and makers in store at places such as Bill Skinner, where craftsman Bill can often be found sat in the sun working outside his boutique on Northumberland Place; at Jody Cory Goldsmiths where Jody works from her studio on Abbey Churchyard; and at Nicholas Wylde on Northumberland Place, you’ll see the man himself designing his nationally recognised works.

29MENU GORDON JONES PHOTO BY ALICE ROBERTON

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THOSE ‘ONLY IN BATH’ MOMENTS

27BATH HALF

Above: ‘Naturals’ from the Natural Theatre Company painting the city red, blue and yellow on Walcot Street. Below: a hot air balloon taking flight over Bath Abbey; gold tooling rolls used for decorating covers at George Bayntun; a pale blue Nissan Figaro on the quiet Northampton Street

PHOTO BY ELLA GITSHAM (ELLABONBELLA_X ON INSTAGRAM)

• Illustrator Benjamin Rothery • Matt and Anna Rees at Speckled Wood who produce laser-cut decorations • Paper sculptor Jessica Palmer • Andy Thearle of Ironart who creates ornamental metalwork • Comic book artist Jennie Gyllblad • Sugar & Sloth’s Anita Perry who creates whimsical illustrations for cards, mugs and gifts from her cottage on the outskirts of Bath

You need to be a fan of surprises to enjoy your experience at this restaurant on Wellsway.

You don’t get to see the menu or wine list, you just sit back and let Gordon bring you his experimental creations.

SIX FOODIE 30…ANOTHER HOTSPOTS TO TRY… • Hunter & Sons • The Foodie Bugle Shop (which is moving to Abbey Green in late September)

• Best of British • Same Same But Different • Corkage • Green Bird Cafe

31THE SOCIAL SIDE

The city has a strong social media presence connecting residents and businesses alike. Take a peek at @IgersBath on Instagram and at @BathIndieChat on Twitter. w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 35

BEST OF B AT H

33STEPPING OUT

Starring Amanda Holden, Angela Griffin and Tamzin Outhwaite at Theatre Royal Bath from 12-22 October.

34TASTE OF BATH

At the hyper-local online hamper company shop, founded by Bath’s Helen Rich, you’ll find exceptional, artisanal produce sourced within 10 miles of Bath.

The famous, award-winning toy store is renowned for its mix of wooden toys and games which blend the traditional with a contemporary edge.

As well as at the city’s most decorous annual sporting event, the Bath Boules, enthusiasts can often be seen showing off their petanque skills at Queen Square.

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THE GREAT BATH FEAST (1-9 OCTOBER)

The city will yet again be brought together to experience a vast array of gastronomic delights.

38

Right now at the museum, which is home to a world-class collection of contemporary and historical fashionable garments, you can catch the History of Fashion in 100 Objects exhibition.

…ANOTHER SIX FESTIVALS AND FAIRS TO TRY…

• • • •

Great Artisan Feast Festival – 17 September The Jane Austen Festival – 9-18 September V Is For Vinyl Record Fair – 1 October Bath Children’s Literature Festival – 1-9 October (see page 54 for more) • Bath Film Festival – 3-13 November • Bath Mozart Festival – 11-19 November

39ANTIQUES

We love hunting for one-of-a-kind pieces, and Bath isn’t short of eclectic shops offering rare and extraordinary items. We love Old Bank Antiques Centre; Off the Wall Antiques; The Small Shop; Michael & Jo Saffell; and Jonathan Potter Maps, to name a few.

40GARDENS

From Henrietta Park to the Botanical Gardens at Royal Victoria Park, Bath is host to many a manicured, open area, all worth visiting during any season.

36 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

42VINTAGE FASHION

Head to Instant Vintage on George Street or The Yellowshop on Walcot Street for some great finds.

43AFTER DARK

From chic cocktail bars like Circo, Sub 13, The Dark Horse and Canary Gin Bar, to brand new independent bar and kitchen Juno in SouthGate, there are plenty of places to wet your whistle.

CHRISTMAS 44BATH MARKET

We adore this festive shopping experience which is running this year from 24 November to 11 December.

PHOTO CREDIT VISITBATH

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BOULES

41FASHION MUSEUM, BATH

Above: the pool and fountain at Henrietta Park – an oasis of peace and calm. Below: The Circus against a beautiful blue sky; a busy market at Green Park Station; a healthy breakfast at The Foodie Bugle Shop

PHOTO CREDIT JASON INGRAM

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MY SMALL WORLD

PHOTO CREDIT CAITLLIN TURNER (@CAITLINFTURNER ON INSTAGRAM)

The independents are a vibrant part of Bath’s make-up; there are far too many great ones to mention on these pages, but here are just a few we love: Magalleria on Broad Street, which sells magazines, artist’s books and zines; Independent Spirit of Bath on Terrace Walk, which combines over 25 years of experience in the cocktail and specialist drinks world; and organic cold-pressed juice specialists The Juice Collective on Lansdown Mews.

PHOTO BY ANDREW STEVENS (@ANDYSTEVENS01 ON INSTAGRAM)

32UNIQUE BUSINESSES

FIVE 45…ANOTHER MARKETS TO TRY… • • • • •

Bath Guildhall Market Vintage & Antiques Market Bath Farmers’ Market Kingsmead Square quarterly markets Bath Artisan Market

46GLASS BLOWING 47TAKING THE WATERS

This is a must-try at Bath Aqua Glass on Walcot Street.

The natural thermal waters have always been one of Bath’s main draws. If you’d prefer to avoid the crowds, we’d recommended an exclusive experience at the Cross Bath. w

new holt showroom now open

Pietra

Wood & Stone

Wiltshire Showroom & Head Office 400 Ham Green, Holt, Wiltshire BA14 6PX 01225 783 527 London Showroom 198 Wandsworth Bridge Rd, Fulham SW6 2UE 0207 610 6111 Opening Hours Monday - Friday 9am - 5.30pm Saturday 9am - 5pm Email info@pietrawoodandstone.com Website www.pietrawoodandstone.com

BEST OF B AT H

PHOTO BY ROY NEWPORT

The picturesque riverbank location of BuroHappold, Bath

HOWARD 48RUSSELL AT KOMEDIA

On 22 and 23 November, the comedian will be bringing his tour warm-up shows to the city.

49THE TOUR OF BRITAIN

Which will visit Bath (or has already visited, depending on when you read this) for its first ever stage finish of the race on September 8.

50WATERWAYS

From the River Avon, the human history of which can be traced to the Roman era over 2000 years ago, to the gentle curves of the Georgian Kennet & Avon Canal.

38 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SULIS MASONRY STONE SPECIALISTS & GENERAL BUILDERS

GENERAL BUILDERS We provide a wide range of general building services including bay window installations and property extensions for customers in Bath and the surrounding areas.

SPECIALIST STONEMASONS Specialist stonemasons in stone masonry and architectural masonry. Including ornamental stonework, stone fireplaces, stone cleaning, walling and supply.

EXTENSIONS & NEW BUILDS We are fully conversant in all of the local conservation areas and are available to offer advice during the planning and design of your extension or new build project.

FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING NEEDS T: 01225 445405 M: 07775 698299 E: info@sulismasonry.co.uk

www.sulismasonry.co.uk

Music/theatre/film/more

BRONZE AGE Kenneth Armitage, who was head of sculpture at Bath Academy of Art, is the focus of a new major retrospective exhibition at Victoria Art Gallery, which will mark the centenary of his birth. It features over 65 works including sculptures in bronze and plaster of single figures, as well as groups, arms, legs and trees, together with paintings and drawings from all phases of his illustrious career. This bronze piece called People In The Wind, featuring four linked figures leaning forwards, was created in Corsham in 1950. It signals a new, anti-monumental, expressionist approach that was gathering pace at the time, and demonstrates Armitage’s preoccupation with the human shape with broad, flattened bodies, pinheads and sprouting, stick-like limbs, combined with an interest in vertical and horizontal structure.

People in The Wind is part of the Kenneth Armitage 1916-2002 centenary sculpture exhibition at Victoria Art Gallery, which can be viewed from 10 September – 27 November; www.victoriagal.org.uk

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3 September – 1 October

The award-winning performer Jo Harman brings her fine soul blues sounds to Chapel Arts; comedian, actor and presenter Miles Jupp takes to the stage in a freshly-ironed shirt at Theatre Royal Bath with his Songs of Freedom tour; quirky, talented American singer/songwriter Dean Friedman is appearing at The Mission Theatre

Exhibitions UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER

BATH SKYLINES An exhibition of originals and giclée prints by local artist Nick Cudworth. Featuring many images that inspired Nick during walks along The Bath Skyline and also observing views looking from within the city. These include views from the artist’s roof garden above the gallery at the top of Walcot Street.

Attention is paid to the changing light and colours created by the time of day and the seasons. The Nick Cudworth Gallery; www. nickcudworth.co.uk UNTIL 1 OCTOBER

THE REMARKABLE MISS BRETON Produced in collaboration with Bristol Museum and Art Gallery,

this exhibition celebrates the life and works of Victorian archeologist, artist, explorer and Bathonian Adela Breton, who is best known for her watercolour copies of the wall paintings of Mexican temples, which have been an invaluable contribution to archaeological records. Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution; www.brlsi.org UNTIL 2 OCTOBER

STUBBS AND THE WILD A haunting exhibition of animal portraits, grand fantasies, exquisite prints and drawings by renowned British 18th-century wildlife painter George Stubbs. He managed to beautifully encapsulate the uneasy relationship between the domestic and the exotic in polite Georgian society. Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

42 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

UNTIL 13 OCTOBER

1ST WORLD WAR ACTS OF KINDNESS This exhibition, funded by the Heritage Lottery, reflects upon the day-to-day life at the Bath War Hospital and offers the opportunity to explore the concept of compassionate community support and the comfort that this brought to recovering soldiers, as well as insight into how such relationships support treatment and wellbeing. RUH Bath; www.artatruh.org UNTIL 13 OCTOBER

12 X 12 SILENT AUCTION To mark the 20th anniversary of Bath Artists’ Studios (BAS), the Studios are collaborating with Art at the Heart and have located the popular Sealed Auction of 12”x 12” works by BAS artists in the RUH’s central

corridor. The successful bidders will be announced in October and all proceeds will be donated to the work of both charity organisations. Combe Park, Royal United Hospital; www.artatruh.org UNTIL 30 OCTOBER

ON THE WILD SIDE BY SIMON KING Longleat plays host to worldrenowned TV wildlife presenter, photographer and cameraman Simon King’s latest exhibition.

King has been concealing himself throughout Longleat’s animal paddocks during the winter, capturing unique images of the animals inside their world, from a never-seen-before perspective. To complement the safari park’s 50th anniversary celebrations, the exhibition will be included in the entrance fee.

Longleat; www.longleat.co.uk

W H AT ’ S O N UNTIL 27 NOVEMBER

PLANNING FOR PEACE While Great Britain was in the middle of the First World War, architect Robert Atkinson designed an extraordinary project to redevelop the city of Bath. His incredible neverbuilt designs, which included an amphitheatre, a huge war memorial and a concert hall, are explored in this fascinating exhibition. Were they really going to demolish the beautiful Georgian buildings, or was it all a ruse to distract people from the misery of war? Museum of Bath Architecture; www. museumofbatharchitecture.org. uk UNTIL 11 DECEMBER

DAILY DELIGHTS OF GEORGIAN BATH Using Thomas Rowlandson’s famous 1798 satirical etchings, The Comforts Of Bath, as inspiration, the more decadent side of Bath is celebrated in the Daily Delights of Georgian Bath exhibition. It explores the rich amusements Bath had to offer such as dinners with 20 different dishes and card games where £10,000 could be lost in one sitting. There is also a collection of exquisite and expensive trinkets visitors often treated themselves to in the city’s ‘toyshops’, including a tiny ivory cage used for keeping a pet cricket. No. 1 Royal Crescent; www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk UNTIL 12 FEBRUARY 2017

RED – CULTURE, HISTORY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP Have you ever wondered why red is so prevalent in Asian culture? This exhibition explores the many different aspects of this bold primary colour in Chinese culture, from the materials used to produce the shade, to the symbolism of the colour, and the rapid advancement of red wares during the Ming dynasty.

Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk UNTIL 1 JANUARY 2018

A HISTORY OF FASHION IN 100 OBJECTS The Fashion Museum presents 100 ‘star’ objects that illustrate a history of fashion from the 1600s to the present day, referencing moments in history, as well as more personal stories.

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See an intricately embroidered waistcoat worked in coloured silks and glittering metal thread worn by an aristocratic woman from Shakespeare’s time, then fast forward 300 years and see a beautiful appliqué embroidered jacket by Paris couturier Lucien Lelong, worn by Gone With The Wind actress Vivien Leigh in 1948; Fashion Museum; www.fashionmuseum.co.uk 3 SEPTEMBER – 10 OCTOBER

URBAN ART Rostra Gallery’s new exhibition explores how city life influences the art world and is a fantastic source of inspiration for many artists. Dan Baldwin, Clare Halifax, Sean Alexander and Anna Marrow have created paintings and screen prints that celebrate urban architecture, everyday materials, street art and graffiti. Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk 5 – 17 SEPTEMBER

PETER FORD Printmaker Peter Ford works uniquely, in that he incorporates paper pulp as a significant part of his practice, often creating remarkable 3D impressions revealing the hidden beauty of everyday objects and forming images of sophisticated pattern and shape. Bath Contemporary; www.bathcontemporary.com 6 – 11 SEPTEMBER

MAKING A MARK In her solo exhibition, the artist Beryl Desmond explores structure and space in the landscape through energetic and expressive mark making, along with an exciting colour palette.

44AD; www.44ad.net 9 SEPTEMBER – 1 OCTOBER

SHOWTIME AT THE CIRCUS Roll up for a humorous, lively, thrilling and at times melancholy exhibition of paintings, marquetry constructions and ceramics by three different artists – Bridget Moore and Steven Hubbard and Claire Loder. David Simon Contemporary; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com

The film Like Nothing Else is showing as part of The Ocean Film Festival at Komedia; Catch Edinburgh-triumphing The Freckles Effect at The Roper Theatre

drawings from all phases of Armitage’s career. See page 41 for more. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk 15 – 18 SEPTEMBER

CATHERINE BEALE This exhibition by Bath artist Catherine Beale perfectly demonstrates why her distinctive technique of ‘gravity painted’ cascading watercolours creates atmospheric and hypnotic paintings. 44AD; www.44ad.net

Plays/Shows

appetite for excess. Full of flair and wit, The Libertine is a wild romp through 1670s hedonistic London. See page 50 for our exclusive interview. £36.50-£15.

Bath Theatre Royal; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 6 – 10 SEPTEMBER

THE RIVER This is a haunting and mesmerising play by Jez Butterworth about a fisherman and his elusive lover. After each performance, the audience will be invited to join the cast for an informal discussion. 7.30pm.

The Mission Theatre; £12; www.missiontheatre.co.uk

UNTIL 17 SEPTEMBER 10 SEPTEMBER – 27 NOVEMBER

KENNETH ARMITAGE This major, retrospective exhibition features over 65 sculptures in bronze and plaster together with paintings and

THE LIBERTINE Dominic Cooper stars in the tale of the true story of John Wilmot, the second Earl of Rochester – a charismatic poet, playwright and rake with an

8 – 10 SEPTEMBER

HUG Hug is a unique examination of the power of the human voice as members of the audience are blindfolded, hugged by a singer w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 43

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W H AT ’ S O N

and Judy, arts and crafts and picnic baskets also available from the buffet. Bring a teddy bear and children can travel free on the steam and diesel hauled trains. £7.50/£5.50.

Avon Valley Railway; www.avonvalleyrailway.org

to experience the performance through sound, breath and the vibrations of the body. £5. the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 8 – 10 SEPTEMBER

THE FRECKLES EFFECT A Bath-made musical which performed at the Edinburgh fringe this August before coming back home to The Roper Theatre. The young and talented cast which includes an ex-lead from Matilda, the junior world tap-dancing champion and a royal ballet junior, tells the tale of a hard-to-place foster child who challenges the deep-rooted sensibilities of a conservative town with her outspoken honesty and feisty spirit. The Roper Theatre, Hayesfield School. £10.50. www.frecklesthemusical.co.uk

24 SEPTEMBER

CREATE: STORIES Led by dancer and educator Laura Street, Create: Stories is an interactive workshop designed to fire the imagination and inspire the creation of exciting new worlds to explore. These sessions incorporate music and movement, and with a different story each month, our little (and big) storytellers will bring the characters to life. Suitable for ages 5-8 years old. 10.30am-11.30am, £5/£3. The Edge Arts; www.edgearts.org

18 SEPTEMBER

MILES JUPP Miles Jupp (stand-up comedian, actor, writer, thinker, father, husband, worrier, fool, star of Rev. and host of The News Quiz) hits the road for his Songs of Freedom tour in a freshly-ironed shirt and some robust trousers and tries to make some bloody sense of it all. 7.30pm, £20. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 19 – 14 SEPTEMBER

THE SHAKESPEARE REVUE Shakespeare meets showbiz in this glittering cabaretstyle musical which was originally produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company and had a hugely successful West End run. The enchanting and entertaining collection of witty music and skits, includes songs and sketches by the late Victoria Wood, Alan Bennett, Maureen Lipman, Monty Python, Noël Coward, Cole Porter and Fry & Laurie. £32.50-£16.50. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

24 – 25 SEPTEMBER Dan Baldwin’s Cyclone screenprint can be seen at the Rostra Gallery as part of their powerful street and urban art inspired exhibition

and has been applauded as ‘the finest female soul blues vocalist in the UK, with ‘a beautiful voice that leaves you speechless.’

7.30pm, £15. Chapel Arts; www.chapelarts.org 23 SEPTEMBER

THE BOWIE COLLECTIVE From Space Oddity to Let’s Dance, this is a rare treat for Bowiefanatics as well as the Bowiecurious, as a locally-based group of talented artists get together to celebrate the legendary sounds and vision of the late David Bowie. 7.30pm, £15.

Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 23 SEPTEMBER

Music

DEAN FRIEDMAN The talented American singer/ songwriter with Billboard hits and a special relationship with British band Half Man, Half Biscuit, brings his multi-faceted, lyrically adept New York quirky sounds to Bath. 8pm, £25.

The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk

18 SEPTEMBER

24 SEPTEMBER

JO HARMAN Devonshire-raised Jo Harman is an award winning vocalist who has performed with both Patti Smith and Joan Baez

BATH PHILHARMONIA Vaughan Williams’ pastoral oboe concerto was written during the years of World War II. A poignant and beautiful piece,

44 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

it reflects on a time before war.

Ravel’s La Tombeau de Couperin is inspired by friends lost in the Great War, yet is full of wit and charm. The concert concludes with Mozart’s bright and monumental Jupiter’ Symphony.

A stunning treat with Jason Thornton as conductor and Victoria Braun on oboe, 7.30pm £25. Wiltshire Music Centre; www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk

Family fun

LIVING HERITAGE’S GAME AND COUNTRY FAIR The annual event returns a for weekend celebration of rural life with added attractions alongside established favourites. Native and more exotic birds of prey star in the Falconry Village; the Craft Village features both contemporary and traditional arts and crafts; the ‘Food Glorious Food’ section lines up chefs’ demonstrations and regional producers; and the ‘World of Dogs’ element rolls out with working dog contests and fun dog show in the main arena. £13/£4.

Bowood House & Gardens; www.bowood.org

16 – 18 SEPTEMBER

SKY SAFARI Longleat hosts two mass ascensions of fifty hot air balloons from their lawn for two glorious days. One will take place in the morning and another in the early evening.

During the day, many of the balloons will be beautifying the sky above Longleat’s 900 acres of parkland with individual tethered ascents. For more information on times and pricing visit www.longleat.co.uk 18 SEPTEMBER

TEDDY BEARS PICNIC Avon Valley Railway is where the teddies can be found, along with balloon modelling, Punch

1 – 9 OCTOBER

BATH CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FESTIVAL The Festival, which is the largest dedicated children’s book festival in Europe, and presents over 80 public, ticketed events and an extensive programme of events in school is celebrating its 10th birthday. Among the illustrious literary lineup attending are David Walliams, Liz Pichon, astronaut Chris Hadfield, Chris Riddell, Michael Morpurgo, Olympic cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, Malorie Blackman and Simon Mayo.

Turn to page 54 for our round-up special. For more information about pricing and venues, please visit www.bathfestivals.org.uk w

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Other UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER

FRANKENSTEIN IN BATH It may have started in Geneva, but most of Frankenstein was actually written in Bath by Mary Shelley 200 years ago. This nightly walk takes you to all the unmarked places that tell Mary’s fascinating tales including that of her half sister’s suicide and the chilling secrets she was desperate to hide. 7.30pm, £8, cash only. The tour starts and ends at Rebecca’s Fountain, Bath Abbey; www. showofstrength.org.uk 7 SEPTEMBER

OCEAN FILM FESTIVAL This extraordinary collection of short films document the beauty and power of the ocean, and celebrate the divers, surfers, swimmers and oceanographers who live for the sea’s salt spray, who chase the crests of waves and who marvel at the mysteries of the big blue. 7.30pm, £13.

Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 8 SEPTEMBER

TOUR OF BRITAIN Stage five of Britain’s cycling’s premier road event, which will begin in Aberdare, finishes in Bath having crossed South Wales and Gloucestershire and will be shown live on ITV4 and around the world. For more information and details visit www.tourofbritain.co.uk 8 – 11 SEPTEMBER

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS Learn more about Bath’s fantastic heritage as venues across the district open their doors in a celebration of history, architecture and culture. The four-day events include a tour of No. 4 The Circus with the opportunity to admire the restored Georgian garden and the chance to look around Fairfield House, the former home of the Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie. For more information and details visit, www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Area Flower Clubs on the theme of ‘Ancient & Modern’. There will also be fun floral sessions for kids along with delicious food, stalls and shopping. £9.

The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens; www.bishopspalace.org.uk 9 – 18 SEPTEMBER

JANE AUSTEN FESTIVAL The 16th annual Jane Austen Festival kicks off with the spectacular Grand Regency Costumed Promenade with over 500 participants. Other events include theatrical walks, informative talks, Austen-styled workshops, minibus tours all over the city and day trips further afield exploring the legacy of the great author. For more information visit www. janeaustenfestivalbath.co.uk 10 SEPTEMBER

BATH MOONLIGHT WALK Previously named Bath Midnight Walk this is the same much-loved 8km sponsored circular tour of the city, starting and ending at SouthGate, which raises funds for Dorothy House Hospice Care. For more information and details visit www.dorothyhouse.org.uk 13 SEPTEMBER

BEN TAYLOR Lucknam Park chef Ben Taylor will give a cookery demonstration in the Theatre Royal Bath’s 1805 Rooms and will demonstrate how to cook smoked venison loin with mushroom risotto and squash puree, followed by a Q&A about cooking techniques. 12pm, £15. www.theatreroyal.org.uk 15 SEPTEMBER

PRACTICE Practice gives artists and audiences the opportunity to come together to test new and innovative contemporary performance in development.

Four extracts of work in progress are followed by a lively exchange of views that aims to open up the making process and contribute to the development of the work. 7pm, £5. The Edge Arts; www.edgearts.org

9 – 11 SEPTEMBER

FLORAL ART SHOW The Bishop’s Palace will host the South West Floral Art Show for the very first time with stunning displays from 40 South West

17 SEPTEMBER

THE GREAT ARTISAN FEAST FESTIVAL The team behind Bath Street Food who triumphed at last

46 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The Tour of Britain zips through Bath on 8 September; Children can Create Stories with musical inspiration at The Edge Arts centre on 24 September

year’s Christmas Market, are returning to the city and taking over Queen Square for The Great Artisan Feast Festival. The all-day feasting celebration will be jam-packed with everything foodie from local artisan producers and street food stalls to live entertainment and cookery demonstrations. For more information and details visit www.bathstreetfood.com

23 SEPTEMBER

ANTIQUES VALUATION DAY Lowden Garden Centre is hosting an Antiques Valuation Day with Bargain Hunt and Flog It‘s Kate Bliss to raise money for Cancer Research UK, where visitors can obtain professional valuations of their antiques for a fee of £3 per item or £5 for two. 10am-3pm.

Lowden Garden Centre; www. lowdengardencentre.com

18 SEPTEMBER

MEMORY WALK This is Bath’s first ever Memory Walk, which is the Alzheimer’s Society’s flagship fundraiser.

More than 2,500 walkers are expected to join the event at Bath Recreation Grounds with the aim of raising £150,000. All the money raised from the event goes towards providing vital care and support services for people living with dementia now and funding research projects to ultimately find a cure. For more information and details, visit www.memorywalk.org.uk

24 – 25 SEPTEMBER

THE BATH FOOD FESTIVAL This festival feasting village at Bath Racecourse is a first and will feature the very best quality food and drink from up to 50 stallholders, including regional produce from local producers such as gourmet burgers, retro ice creams and artisan beers. There are also cookery demonstrations, storytelling, face-painting and garden games. 10am-5pm, £10/£5. www. fantasticbritishfoodfestivals. com

The South West’s Premier Wedding Exhibition Wedding World hosts one of the largest and most glamorous Wedding Exhibitions in the South West, next event will take place on...

Sunday 11th September 2016 11am to 3pm at The Edge, University of Bath, Claverton Down Professionally choreographed fashion shows – 12 and 2pm A variety of wedding Suppliers, Services & Experts / Live Entertainment Free parking

For free tickets visit: www.weddingworldexhibitions.co.uk

adve r tisin g featu r e A R T

Good Breeding Artist joanne cope refuses to follow the herd with her bold and original paintings of livestock

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ath-based artist Joanne Cope’s subject matter is the first thing that will grab your attention when her new solo show opens in Milsom Street from 19 September. Cope has been building herself a well deserved reputation for creating beautiful and memorable images of cattle.

Her paintings are bold and impressive portraits of boisterous bulls and soft contemplating cows. She makes use of sizable canvases to capture with maximum impact, the scale, splendour and character of these magnificent animals. Despite her single subject matter, there is surprising variety in her work, including a range of breeds, compositions and colour palettes. She believes, “Each breed is an artwork in itself.

I could dedicate a whole show to Charolais alone”. So with dozens of farms in fairly close proximity, Joanne has little difficulty finding reference to spark her enthusiasm.

Joanne’s portraits have strong, graphic compositions as a result of her early training in Visual Communication and Design. She uses special oil paints made from pigment and alkyd resin, which speeds up drying time and creates greater translucency and luminosity. Once a painting is near to completion, Joanne applies several thin layers of glaze to unify colour before the painting is finally varnished.

Commitments in New Zealand, a handful of trips there and back, and a number of overseas commissions have made this last year a busy one for Cope. While in New Zealand, Joanne spent time reconnecting to her farming background. Her mum, aunts and uncles were ‘of the land’: dairy and beef farmers, pig and deer hunters – even gold miners. She enjoyed many childhood farming holidays, where she was obliged to help with milking, sheep shearing and hay baling.

Joanne’s love of drawing and painting cattle was born from this and from the stunning scenery surrounding them.

Back here in the West Country and other parts of the UK there are a plethora of subjects and similar

“A lot of my paintings are inspired by the landscape and my experience of the cows in that particular place” breath-taking backdrops for Joanne to draw inspiration from. Even though you don’t immediately think of landscape when you look at her paintings, she says, “It’s important to remember the connection between cattle and the landscape. A lot of my paintings are inspired by the landscape and my experience of the cows in that particular place.”

After more than a decade of paying homage to her bovine models she has certainly honed her craft. Lately Joanne has also produced energetic studies of stags and hares – some of these will also be included in the exhibition alongside the cattle. Not a show to be missed.

Cattle Paintings by Joanne Cope September 19 – October 2 28 Milsom St, Bath BA1 1G Tel: 01225 322 962 or 07958 703 438 www.joannecope.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 49

It’s a

really complex, confused,

dark character to immerse yourself in

wicked fun He’s perhaps best known for his roles in films such as Mamma Mia! and The History Boys, but a major revival of Stephen Jeffreys’ The Libertine at the Theatre Royal Bath brings out Dominic Cooper’s dark, twisted and utterly debauched side

By L I SA E VA NS

ONE TO ONE

R

aucous, intrigued and excited – that’s how Dominic Cooper describes his most memorable theatre audience, and it was Bath’s.

“From what I can remember, the Theatre Royal Bath audience was one of the best I’ve ever come across,” says the actor who’s known for his roles in films such as The History Boys, Captain America and Mamma Mia! as well the title role in the acclaimed new series, Preacher.

“It didn’t feel as if they were there out of some obligation to feign culturalism, they were just up for some fun. I’m eager to come back now; the city’s so beautiful, I just love the place.

“I filmed there and remember it being breathtaking,” adds Dominic, referring to scenes within The Duchess, which he featured in alongside Keira Knightley. “I could never tire of Bath.”

The last time he was on stage here was when he appeared in Mark Ravenhill’s Mother Clap’s Molly House in 2001, and his return this month is due to his starring role in the indecently entertaining tale of excess The Libertine, which shows in the city before its eagerly anticipated run in the West End. “By the way they reacted to that particular play [Mother Clap’s Molly House] I think this show is going to go down tremendously well with the Bath crowd,” he says. “With the theatre itself, I remember it being very big but also very intimate. I have a great feeling about us starting out in Bath before the West End and gaining confidence with an allembracing audience.”

In The Libertine, Dominic will play legendary rogue John Wilmot, the Second Earl of Rochester, who he’s been obsessing about since securing the role.

“As soon as I knew I’d got the part, the character and how to play him, was always in the back of my mind,” he says. “Even when I was in the middle of filming for Preacher I was concentrating on it.”

He hasn’t been on stage for seven years but says he’s getting back into the swing of things with surprising ease.

“I had all that fear beforehand, but the stage is where it all began for me,” he says. “That’s what I went to drama school for. It’s odd but quite comfortable. It feels like home and it feels natural rather than terrifying. When I was given this part, my confidence was lacking and I faced it with trepidation, but I needn’t have; it’s actually so much fun and it’s a great play to be starting back with as QUICK-FIRE ROUND Best career moment so far? Every time I get the call to say ‘You’ve got the job’. It’s the same feeling of elation now as when I got my first call after coming out of drama school – getting a job in the Lyttelton Theatre at the National, then taking it to Bath.

Best personal life moment? I probably haven’t had it yet; it’s still to come. Let’s say the very fact I’m not

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it’s given me the opportunity to be bold and brave due to the nature of the character.”

The Stephen Jeffreys’ play, directed by multi-award winner Terry Johnson, is based on true events and tells the story of Dominic’s character, John Wilmot – a poet, playwright and close friend of King Charles II, with a notorious appetite for excess and debauchery. It’s a lively, witty and sexually charged romp through seventeenth century London which Dominic says is “fulfilling and terribly enjoyable to be a part of.”

“It’s so different to behave in the way Rochester does,” he says.

“To enjoy the danger and the threat and how he relishes that. It’s a really complex, confused, dark character to immerse yourself in.

He was his own worst enemy; his intellect caused complications.”

And Dominic’s adamant that there are no similarities between him and this “extraordinarily narcissistic” character.

“There’s nothing about him that I relate to on a personal level,” he says.

“There’s this wonderful speech at the beginning where he talks about the fact that he must not be ignored. We are the centre of our parents’ universe, I suppose, up to a certain age, and there’s a horrible moment of discovery when you realise you’re not the centre of the world. But it’s clear that Rochester hasn’t ever quite had that realisation.”

But seeing someone behave so badly is one of the reasons Dominic thinks audiences are drawn in.

“We do enjoy watching that kind of thing, don’t we?” he says. “And the truth is he did behave like that; it’s not a made-up story. There are still terrible people who feel they can behave in any way they like and treat people with such disdain and such a lack of love.

“I was talking to Stephen Jeffreys about the time Rochester left a very young man for dead, and the death was part of his making, really,” he adds.

“Rochester fled the scene, hid in the East End of London and became a quack doctor. He got the servants of the house to create medicines that were apparently made from coal and urine and administered them to patients.

“That’s a real lack of care and he messed up people’s lives for pleasure and fun. It’s hard to find many redeeming qualities in him. I want the audience to like him, to enjoy him, and relish his absurdity, but if you really do analyse the man and take him apart, he’s not particularly pleasant. I’m hoping Bath will enjoy seeing his many sides.”

Dominic Cooper stars in The Libertine by Stephen Jeffreys, from now until 17 September at the Theatre Royal Bath.

For more and to book see www.theatreroyal.org.uk

keeled over in my bed and can actually wake up every day is as good as I need things to be.

Have you ever doubted yourself as an actor?

You have moments in drama school where you’re thinking ‘What on earth’s going on here?’ Your friends are at university, and living a very different life, while you’re pretending to be various strains of wind or animals. You have moments of questioning

it and so the moment when it all makes sense – as I have felt again with this play – is such a rewarding sensation to have.

Where would we find you when you’re not working? Playing tennis or football.

What’s your guilty pleasure? I love hoovering the house from top to bottom; it’s pretty therapeutic.

Life motto: Life is a cabaret, old chum.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 51

Philosophy for living Free 4 week course starts September 2016 The aim of philosophy is to set people free; free from pressure and free from worry; free to grow, free to be themselves. So it seems fitting that a philosophy course should be free. This four session mini-course, called Philosophy for Living, looks at life and its meaning, the world and its causes and applying mindfulness to every moment. Based on the classic philosophies of East and West, it invites us to see life as a place to test the words of the wise. Feel free to join us.

For those who wish to extend this introduction, a further 6 week course follows on immediately, cost ÂŁ36 (concessions available).

BATH When? Tuesdays at 7.15pm starting 27th Sept 2016 Where? 30 Milsom St, Bath, BA1 1DG BRISTOL When? Thursdays at 7.15pm starting 29th Sept 2016 Where? Charnwood House, 30 Cotham Park, Bristol, BS6 6BU

If you would like to know more or to register please contact: Email: bathandbristolphilosophy@gmail.com Or call: 07873 230651 Bath and Bristol School of Philosophy: branch of The Fellowship of the School of Economic Science.

Registered Educational Charity 313115 Charity number 313115

www.bathandbristolphilosophy.org

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Stories of people, places and events well told...

The Historical Association (Patron: HM The Queen) was founded in 1906 for people who want to understand how the past has shaped our present.

The Bath Branch of the Historical Association organises high-quality lectures, visits and special events.

Interested?

Visit www.historybath.org or call Mike Short, 01225 812945

Visit Wadswick Green, Wiltshire’s exciting new lifestyle village where you can find your zest for life.

Last few remaining Courtyard Apartments in Rowan Lane and Birch Close and One-Bed Penthouse Suites at the Pavilion available now.

Our show apartment is open 7 days a week Call us for a chat on 01225 584500

Wadswick Green welcomes you to Women’s Week, from 26th – 30th September it’s all about the ladies. Kick back and relax with your girlfriends and enjoy a variety of special events including twilight spa parties, an evening of live jazz, a fashion show and much more.

For more information about all of the events taking place during Women’s Week visit our website www.wadswickgreen.co.uk or call 01225 585880.

Booking early is recommended.

THE

GREENHOUSE The Greenhouse Restaurant is open every day from 9am-11pm Monday to Saturday and 10am-8pm (last orders at 6pm) on Sundays

You can reserve a table at any time by calling us on 01225 585880 or book online at www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk

CHILDREN’S CHOICE

WORD on the STREET As it’s the Bath Children’s Literature Festival’s 10th birthday this year, celebrations in the city will include a stellar line-up of some of the world’s biggest authors and illustrators – from David Walliams to Julian Clary.

Here, the festival’s founders tell us about a handful of their favourites...

By E V E LY N GR E E N

W

ith 100 events up its sleeve, the Bath Children’s Literature Festival will delight its young audience on this, its 10th anniversary, when it brings some of the most revered international authors, illustrators, characters and professional storytellers to the city next month.

“During the past 10 years, the festival has seen over 2,500 events and a staggering quarter of a million kids and families attending from a demographic range of 50,000 miles,” says Gill McLay, who is the founder and artistic director of the festival alongside her husband John. “That’s the equivalent of flying around the globe twice!”

John adds: “To mark this special occasion, we want to create a legacy that will inspire children to read, write, draw and develop their creativity. We have so many events for children to participate in such as The Big Bath Read, which encourages children to read and discuss the book Hamish and the Worldstoppers written by Danny Wallace. We also have an array of creative writing masterclasses; a journalism workshop; and a poetry workshop with a performance poet.”

Here are just a handful of the big names on the way to Bath…

LIZ PICHON

DAVID WALLIAMS

Well-known broadcaster, author and national treasure Clare will entertain and inspire with her talk about her very first book, The Racehorse Who Wouldn’t Gallop. The story is, Clare brings to life Charlie Bass – a horse-mad 10-year-old who dreams of owning her own pony. So when she accidentally manages to buy a racehorse, Charlie is thrilled; there’s just one problem – he won’t gallop.

One of the biggest names in children’s books, the actor and comedian, who has sold over 10 million books in the UK alone, is coming to the festival for the first time. The event, which will open the festival, will be a celebration of The World of David Walliams, with a talk about his career and some of his most popular books.

1 October, at The Forum, Bath 54 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The best-selling author and illustrator will take the audience into the world of Tom Gates. Play the caramel wafer trick and hear music from Tom’s band, Dogzombies, as Liz reads, doodles and demonstrates how to draw in her Tom Gates style.

Opposite, clockwise from top left: Olympic champ Chris Hoy; national treasure Clare Balding; best-selling author Liz Pichon; comedian David Walliams; Professor Stephen Hawking with his daughter Lucy

1 October, at The Forum, Bath

LUCY HAWKING

Explore the universe in an interactive session based on Lucy’s books which she co-wrote with her father, the world-famous cosmologist Professor Stephen Hawking.

1 October, at the Guildhall, Bath

OLI WHITE

Join the YouTube sensation, who has 3.2 million subscribers, as he discusses his debut novel Generation Next, a funny coming-of-age story about friendship, family and first love.

1 October, at The Forum, Bath

CHRIS HOY

The former professional cyclist and six-time Olympic gold medal winner will introduce his new series of books for young readers entitled Flying Fergus. Join Chris, co-author Joanna Nadin and illustrator Clare Elsom as they talk about the inspiration behind the books, with live drawing.

2 October, at the Guildhall, Bath

CLARE BALDING

2 October, at the Guildhall, Bath w

WE WANT TO

CREATE A LEGACY THAT WILL

INSPIRE CHILDREN TO READ, WRITE, DRAW AND

DEVELOP THEIR CREATIVITY

CHILDREN’S CHOICE

Clockwise from top left: wildlife champion Chris Packham; astronaut Chris Hadfield; comedian Julian Clary; radio presenter Simon Mayo; former children’s laureate Michael Morpurgo

MICHAEL MORPURGO

Former children’s laureate Michael will share the enchanting inspiration for his books, including his latest novel, An Eagle in the Snow, which is an extraordinary story of the man who could have stopped World War Two before it began.

8 October, at the Guildhall, Bath

COLONEL CHRIS HADFIELD

The Canadian astronaut will launch his new book, The Darkest Dark, at the festival. He’ll talk about how he conquered his fear of the dark as a child and then went on to become commander of the International Space Station.

8 October, at The Forum, Bath

MALORIE BLACKMAN AND SIMON MAYO

On Young Adult (YA) Day, former children’s laureate and celebrated YA author, Malorie, comes to the festival for an exclusive ‘in conversation’ event with radio presenter and author Simon, in which they will discuss their books.

8 October, at The Forum, Bath

CHRIS RIDDELL

The author of much-loved books such as Ottoline and the Goth Girl series, will give a talk about his role as the current children’s laureate and will answer questions from his young fans through live drawing.

8 October, at The Forum, Bath

JULIAN CLARY

The comedian, entertainer and writer will team up with illustrator David Roberts to introduce their brand new book in the series, The Bolds to the Rescue, about a family of hyenas living in an ordinary suburban street. The event will be packed with readings in Julian’s unique style, live drawing from David and lots of laughter.

8 October, at the Guildhall, Bath

CHRIS PACKHAM

The TV presenter and wildlife champion will share his passion for the natural world in this very special event in which he’ll recall many beastly stories as well as talk about his first book, Amazing Animal Journeys.

9 October, at the Guildhall, Bath

The Bath Children’s Literature Festival runs from 1 – 9 October. For more and to book, visit www.bathfestivals.org.uk 56 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Explore another language and culture Part-time courses for the general public Specialising in teaching languages to a wide spectrum of adult learners, our courses for the general public are open to everyone and there is no formal entry requirement.

Why study with us?

• We offer a wide range of foreign languages from beginner through to advanced levels • Our courses aim to develop all four language skills: speaking, reading, writing and listening • Our tutors are all qualified language teachers who are experienced and committed • We offer a friendly approach to learning • Classes are held at the University of Bath campus or in Bath city centre

The courses • Our Autumn Term classes start week commencing 3 October 2016 • Language courses generally run for 11 weeks. Students can choose to study for one term only or can enrol for the continuation of the course • We offer daytime, lunchtime and evening classes, which take place once a week • Choose from a range of languages including: Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish

How to enrol

Online Visit our website www.bath.ac.uk/flc/general-public/ courses/index.html and apply online by following the link from the course you have selected.

By telephone Please call 01225 383991

Foreign Languages Centre

Daytime, lunchtime and evening foreign language classes Foreign Languages Centre www.bath.ac.uk/flc flc@bath.ac.uk 01225 383991

Crafting beautiful homes in stunning locations Bath | Somerset | Wiltshire | Cotswolds | Dorset

01225 791155 ashford-homes.co.uk

Send us postcard a from here

pop in for a coffee and chat at your new independent travel agent 21-22 the corridor, bath ba1 5ap www.ctheworld.co.uk | bath@ctheworld.co.uk | 01225 418100

60 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

The Richmond Arms There’s plenty of life – and a very decent small-plate offering – in this characterful, historic Georgian terrace tucked away on a residential road

By L I SA E VA NS

F

resh, local, organic, homemade. Much like the hackneyed ‘wellness’ and ‘healthy living’ hashtags on Instagram, these buzzwords have become so overused and commonplace that they don’t have a lot of, if any, impact on me. But when a chef-patron donning his whites personally visits your table to tell you that his loyal customers have just dropped off the batches of foraged samphire and redcurrants for today’s menu, and the fact that, from his own back gate, he can see the greengrocers from which he buys his veg, the buzzwords hit you like they did when the locally grown-and-sold stuff was still a relative novelty.

The chef-in-question, Jeremy Johnson, is the owner of The Richmond Arms in Bath, and his customers, he says, do this in exchange for a couple of on-the-house coffees and some good banter – the latter evidently comes in abundance, as we are soon to find out.

There was a pub quiz at the restaurant last night, so the chipper manager casually recounts some of the questions to a guest. The restaurant is cosy enough that some of the diners overhear and begin to pitch in with guesses, and the atmosphere begins to vibrate with positivity.

Outside, the south-facing beer garden is peppered with sunlounging folk nattering away; perched at the bar are those who have popped in solo just to enjoy glasses of red and a read of their books in a hassle-free environment; and the tables are packed with visitors enjoying many a sharing-plate.

“That’s the mentality here,” says Jeremy. “There’s always a lively spirit and the small dishes we serve are designed to be shared to further enhance that feeling.”

After returning from a three-year stay in New Zealand where he studied at Le Cordon Bleu and obtained a grand diploma in French cuisine and patisserie, he took over The Richmond Arms last December. He was previously a chartered surveyor and has only been cooking professionally for the last 18 months after deciding to retrain.

“I worked in both fine dining and more laid-back restaurants in New Zealand and noticed a change in appetite from formal to informal with sharing plates providing a more social experience,” says Jeremy. “I was very much into this ethos, hence my style now.”

A STAR DISH IS THE TENDER PORK AND PARMESAN MEATBALLS

SLATHERED IN A COMFORTING ARRABBIATA CREAM

It might be under new ownership, but this beautiful little pub restaurant has been nestled in the Richmond Place Georgian terrace since around 1790. It’s just a mile away from the city centre, but manages to retain a country feel with its distressed wood tables, rustic pendant lighting and hearty, memorable dishes accompanied by a vast selection of complementary wines.

“Ben Franks, one of Bath’s wine experts [and a Bath Life columnist] said it was one of the best wine lists he’d ever seen,” says Jeremy. “Many of them are hand-selected from South America, New Zealand and Europe. And, obviously, everything is chosen with the food in mind.”

Jeremy decides that, to get the full experience, we should definitely eat our way through the entire menu. And he isn’t joking. Round, by moreish round, he brings out a Europeaninspired combination of 15 dishes, the focus being more on what’s in season and contrasting textures, rather than sticking to one particular theme or region. There’s the Spanish-style patatas bravas mingled with hot olives; crispy, charred potato skins filled with oozy camembert; Welsh samphire served beneath mackerel fishcakes; creamy smoked salmon and fennel compote; and a freshly prepared scotch duck egg.

Beautiful flavours aside, what strikes me is the thought that’s gone into the styling. Obviously you come to expect some level of neatness at a restaurant, but this is different, kooky, even. The vegetable risotto, for example, is served stuffed inside a hollowed-out fat, round courgette that sits upright on the plate with a little courgette hat that you lift off – Halloween pumpkin-style – to reveal the piping-hot, velvety rice dotted with cherry tomatoes which are warmed through until just about to burst.

Then there are the mighty, meaty dishes. Where do I start?

I can’t not mention the crumbed lamb’s liver, or the petite shoulder of veal pie with suet pastry, but a star dish is the tender pork and parmesan meatballs slathered in a comforting arrabbiata cream. They are accompanied by a manchego cheese and pumpkin seed salad, and pasta tossed in homemade (there’s that word again) punchy pesto.

To finish, a subtly flavoured golden pastry-encrusted custard tart studded with plump, sweet redcurrants and served with a shot of double cream. What Jeremy does, he does lovingly.

The little touches, such as the mint-infused water, the candles burning inside miniature teacups, the oil-drizzled focaccia which has been made in-house, and the freshly cut lush flowers (from Eades on Julian Road, the same place as Jeremy gets his veggies) on each table, let you know that every aspect is well thought-through. And, most importantly, we learnt that a male hedgehog is called a boar, and its young, a hoglet. We’ll definitely be heading to their next pub quiz night, sounds like a hoot.

DINING DETAILS The Richmond Arms, 7 Richmond Place, Bath; 01225 316725; www.therichmondarmsbath.com Prices The menus – and therefore the prices – change daily.

When we visited, the small plates ranged between £6 and £14, and desserts were between £4.50 and £7.95 Disabled access Good Vegetarian choice Extensive Wine list Large and hand-selected by the owner Service/atmosphere Attentive and personal with a community village vibe

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 61

D I N I N G A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

DINING in BATH Bath Life’s selection of the best places to eat out in Bath and the surrounding area

BRITISH

CAFÉS & COFFEE SHOPS

ALLIUM BATH, THE ABBEY HOTEL 1 N Parade, Bath; 01225 809469; www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk/allium Stylish fine art themed modern British cuisine within the elegant Abbey Hotel

HUNTER AND SONS Milsom Place, Milsom St, Bath; 07821 975033; www.hunter-sons.co.uk Speciality coffee, craft beer and kitchen

THE BATH PRIORY Weston Rd, Bath; 01225 331922; www.thebathpriory.co.uk Michelin starred fine dining overlooking hotels award-winning gardens

GREEN BIRD CAFÉ 11 Margaret's Buildings, Bath; 01225 487846; www.greenbirdcafe.co.uk Independently run cafe located between the Circus & Royal Crescent

CLAYTONS KITCHEN, THE PORTER 15a George St, Bath; 01225 585100; www.theporter.co.uk Stylish modern British cooking from Rob Clayton

THE KINGSMEAD KITCHEN 1 Kingsmead St, Kingsmead Square, Bath; 01225 329002; www.fieldfireandfeast.co.uk Laid-back, modern cafe-bar open daily from 8am until 6pm for breakfast, brunch, lunch and tea using own farm produce

THE DOWER HOUSE, ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL 16 Royal Crescent, Bath; 01225 823333; www.royalcrescent.co.uk/dining AA 3 rosette fine dining at one of Bath’s most iconic locations

ST JAMES CAFÉ 5- 6 St James St, St James Square, Bath; 01225 336106 Recently refurbished café and deli

JOHANN LAFER, THE GAINSBOROUGH Beau St, Bath; 01225 358888; www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk Menus inspired by Johann Lafer’s “Dining Without Borders” philosophy

WILD CAFÉ 10a Queen St, Bath; 01225 448673; www.wildcafe.co.uk Corner eatery with food made from local produce and organic ingredients

THE HARE AND HOUNDS Lansdown Rd, Avon, Bath; 01225 482682; www.hareandhoundsbath.com Airy, relaxed spot with modern British gastropub menu, extensive wine list and scenic outdoor seats THE LOCKSBROOK INN 103 Locksbrook Rd, Bath; 01225 427119; www.thelocksbrookinn.com Recently opened canal side gastropub in Bath, open every day for drinks, brunch, coffee, lunch, evening meals and grazing in between THE MARLBOROUGH TAVERN 35 Marlborough Buildings; 01225 423731; www.marlborough-tavern.com Award winning gastropub using seasonal local produce

INDIAN THE EASTERN EYE 8a Quiet St, Bath; 01225 422323; www.easterneye.com Classic traditional Bengali cuisine in grand Georgian interior space

FRENCH

THE MINT ROOM Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 446656; www.themintroom.co.uk Creative and classic Indian cuisine in a contemporary setting

LE BISTROT PIERRE Princes Buildings, 4 George St, Bath; 01225 321840; www.lebistrotpierre.co.uk/bath Regional French dishes

RAJPOOT 4 Argyle St, Bath; 01225 466833; www.rajpoot.com Award-winning Indian fine dining at Bath institution

GASTROPUBS

ITALIAN

THE RICHMOND ARMS 7 Richmond Place, Bath; 01225 316725; www.therichmondarmsbath.com Hearty dishes with menu changing on a daily basis

PONTE VECCHIO Spring Gardens Rd, Bath; 01225 466833; www.pontevecchiobath.com Fantastic central location next to Pulteney Bridge

HENRYS 4 Saville Row, Bath; 01225 780055; www.henrysrestaurantbath.com Imaginative modern dining offering a classic menu and also full vegetarian and vegan menus

THE CHEQUERS 50 Rivers St, Bath; 01225 360017; www.thechequersbath.com Inventive British food served in a welcoming pub atmosphere close to the Royal Crescent

MARTINI RESTAURANT 8-9 George St, Bath; 01225 460818; www.martinirestaurant.co.uk Traditional Italian cooking in cosy atmospheric restaurant

MENU GORDON JONES 2 Wellsway, Bath; 01225 480871; www.menugordonjones.co.uk Multi award winning fine dining with constantly changing surprise tasting menu

HALL AND WOODHOUSE 1 Old King St, Bath; 01225 469259; www.hall-woodhousebath.co.uk Chic bar and British restaurant with a modern vintage vibe

YAMMO 66 Walcot St, Bath; 01225 330236; www.yammo.co.uk Neapolitan street food, pizzas, burgers, tapas and cocktails

THE OLIVE TREE RESTAURANT, THE QUEENSBERRY HOTEL Russell St, Bath; 01225 447928; www.thequeensberry.co.uk One of Bath’s longest established restaurants, overseen by Chris Cleghorn with 3 AA rosettes CIRCUS CAFÉ & RESTAURANT 34 Brock St, Bath; 01225 466020; www.thecircuscafeandrestaurant.co.uk All-day restaurant serving seasonal, local produce next to Bath’s iconic Georgian Circus

62 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E D I N I N G

JOYA 6 Newmarket Row, Bath; 01225 460240; www.joyarestaurant.co.uk Family-run ristorante situated opposite Bath's famous Pulteney Bridge

REAL ITALIAN PIZZA CO 16 York St, Bath; 01225 330121; www.realitalianpizza.co.uk Family owned pizzeria. Wood fired pizza with fresh authentic ingredients

SOTTO SOTTO 10 N Parade, Bath; 01225 330236; www.sottosotto.co.uk Classic Italian menu with a contemporary twist in candlelit vaulted cellars

STEAK HOUSES

PIZZA DOUGH The Corridor, Bath; 01225 443686; www.doughpizzarestaurant.co.uk World class pizza from Massimo Nucaro THE OVEN 21 Westgate St, Bath; 01225 311181; www.theovenpizzeria.co.uk Neapolitan artisan pizza using local and Italian imported produce

THE COWSHED 5 Bladud Buildings, The Paragon; 01225 433633; www.cowshedrestaurants.com/bath Steaks sourced from specialist butcher Ruby and White along with a range of vegetarian and fish dishes THE HERD 12a Argyle St, Bath; 01225 316583; www.theherdrestaurant.co.uk Locally sourced meat of the finest provenance alongside a simple, seasonal menu

TAPAS

OLÉ TAPAS 1 John Street, Bath; 01225 466440; www.oletapas.co.uk Charming, authentic Spanish tapas – one of Bath’s best kept secrets MADRID 5 Chapel Row, Bath; 01225 423417; www.madrid-tapas-bath.com Bringing a taste of Madrid to Bath – traditional Spanish tapas with a modern twist

THAI THAI BY THE WEIR 16 Argyle St, Bath; 01225 444834; www.thaibytheweir.co.uk Restaurant overlooking the weir, serving a classic Thai menu KOH THAI TAPAS 36 Broad St, Bath; 01225 311232; www.koh-thai.co.uk Award winning small Thai tapas plates and cocktails

OUTSIDE of BATH BRITISH THE FIELD KITCHEN 1 Brook Ln, Holt BA14 6RL; 01225 784081; www.glovefactorystudios.com/kitchen Serving fresh seasonal dishes within the Glove Factory Studios THE GREENHOUSE RESTAURANT The Pavilion, Wadswick Green, Corsham SN13 9RD; 01225 585880; www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk Smart, stylish and relaxed new dining destination

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS

Park restaurant and more informal dining at the stylish contemporary brasserie at 5 star country house hotel THE PIG Hunstrete House, Hunstrete, Pensford, Bath BS39 4NS; 01761 490490; www.thepighotel.com/near-bath Part of the acclaimed Pig group, country house hotel and restaurant with food sourced from Kitchen garden

GASTROPUBS BIDDESTONE ARMS Biddestone, Wilts SN14 7DG; 01249 714377; www.biddestonearms.co.uk Whitewashed country pub with upmarket, robust British fare in a beautiful Cotswold stone village

WIDBROOK GRANGE HOTELS Trowbridge Rd, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1UH; 01225 864750; www.widbrookgrange.co.uk Modern farmhouse cuisine, locally sourced and freshly prepared

BUNCH OF GRAPES 14 Silver St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1JY; 01225 938088; www.thebunchofgrapes.com Bar and restaurant inspired by the village bistros of South West France

LUCKNAM PARK Colerne, Wilts, SN14 8AZ; 01225 742777; www.lucknampark.co.uk Michelin Star fine dining at the renowned

THE PEAR TREE INN Top Ln, Whitely, Wilts; SN12 8QX; 01225 704966; www.peartreewhitley.co.uk An elegant revamped country inn with an

acclaimed restaurant and contemporary rustic-chic bedrooms THE LONGS ARMS Upper South Wraxall, Wilts, BA15 2SB; 01225 864450; www.thelongsarms.com Award winning modern British food and cask ales in country inn THE THREE DAGGERS 47 Westbury Rd, Edington, Wilts BA13 4PG; 01380 830940; www.threedaggers.co.uk Pub restaurant using local seasonal produce, luxury B&B accommodation, farm shop full and microbrewery

FARM SHOPS MEADGATE FARM SHOP Weekesley Ln, Timsbury, BA2 0NH; 01761 470089; www.meadgatefarmshop.co.uk Shop and café selling local produce

THAI THAI BARN 9-10 St Margaret's St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1DA; 01225 866443; www.thaibarn.co.uk Open for 18 years specialising in royal Thai cuisine

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 63

FOR B OOK IN GS PHON E

0 1 225 4436 86

S P E C I A L I T Y P I Z Z E R I A N OW O P E N I N T H E CO R R I DO R , B AT H The only Italian pizzeria that lets you choose your dough, from traditional sourdough to hemp, gluten free, kamut and more

D O U G H P I Z Z A R E S TA U R A N T. C O . U K

&

GUYERS HOUSE HOTEL & RESTAURANT All that you would expect of an English country house Guyers House Hotel & Restaurant is a charming, privately owned four star, 2 AA Rosette country house hotel surrounded by its own outstanding gardens at Corsham, 8 miles east of Bath.

The hotel has 37 en-suite bedrooms, elegant dining and sitting rooms, a panelled Bar and an award-winning restaurant of real distinction.

We will do our very best to make your stay as friendly, enjoyable and comfortable as possible.

“The buildings and grounds were stunning and the food was exceptional. Recommended to anyone wanting a nice relaxing break.�

For more information visit our website www.guyershouse.com or call us on 01249

713399

Emily Luff Digital & graphic design

Mambo Italiano With menus serving up the likes of sea urchin linguine, and goat layered with music paper bread, here’s our serving of seven of the best Italian restaurants in the city‌

66 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

TESTING, TESTING MARTINI RESTAURANT

and whitebait.

What else: They cater for weddings and can take their mobile wood-fired oven with them wherever they go.

Did you know: The building used to be a pub and served the cattle market. “We have photos of animals waiting outside the building, and, under the floors, there are still bits and pieces, which were used for draft beer,” says Ellen.

Proudly run by Italians, this authentic restaurant has just celebrated its 16th year.

They say: “Here, customers can experience ‘the dolce vita’ and a convivial ambiance,” says co-owner Nunzio Mola, who runs the ship alongside Franco Pidala and head chef Luigi Lino.

We’re ordering the...Linguini pasta with sea urchins, prawns and samphire; and the grouse for our secondi piatti.

66 Walcot Street, Bath; www.yammo.co.uk

8-9 George Street, Bath; www.martinirestaurant.co.uk

NONNA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

JOYA When it opened six years ago, the restaurant was called the Real Italian Bar and Kitchen, changing to Joya after two years.

They say: “We wanted to recreate the flavours of the Italian region where I spent my childhood,” says Francesca Addabbo, who owns Joya with Timothy Coffey. “It focuses on the beautiful region of Puglia.”

We’re ordering the...Panzerottini di Puglia – parcels of dough with a mozzarella and tomato filling, deep fried until crispy.

Did you know? “Years ago, when the restaurant was a B&B, an Italian family was occupying a room,” says Francesca. “The dad was a firework specialist and the fireworks in his room caught fire and his wife and son were killed. My parents now live in that same apartment. At times they feel a presence that they can’t explain.”

300 YEARS AGO, THE BUILDING WAS USED AS A COAL CELLAR

39 Gay Street, Bath; www.nonnasitalianrestaurant.co.uk

AIÓ SARDINIA Last month, they celebrated their seventh year in business, and owners Mauro Matta and Salvatore Cuomo still base their Sardinian menu on family traditions and recipes.

They say: “MasterChef judge Gregg Wallace recently visited and was pleased with his dish, and MasterChef winner Ping Coombes has been our customer for years.”

We’re ordering the...Goat, layered with music paper bread, mint and pecorino.

6 New Market Row, Bath; www.joyarestaurant.co.uk

AMARONE Owned by the Shayegan family, the independent restaurant opened earlier this year.

They say: “Being a family-owned restaurant, we really care about our customers and offer them a friendly welcome,” says co-owner Jane Shayegan.

We’re ordering the...Cacciucco – a fish stew in a spicy tomato sauce.

Did you know? “The restaurant is situated in a Grade-II listed building, which was the home of Richard Beau Nash – the Master of Ceremonies for Bath, who played a leading role in making Bath the most fashionable resort in 18th century England,” says Jane.

7 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath; www.aiorestaurant.co.uk

SOTTO SOTTO

Beau Nash House, Saw Close, Bath; amaroneristorante.co.uk

YAMMO! This family-run street-food kitchen and pizzeria, which opened three years ago, is inspired by the cuisine of Naples.

They say: “Our restaurant stands out because Italians come here to eat,” says owner Ellen Potter. “It’s not mainstream; it’s like the real Napoli– cosy, friendly and unpretentious.”

We’re ordering the...Seafood cuoppo – a cone stuffed with shell-on prawns, calamari, monkfish

Both of Italian heritage, Angelo and Laura Tallo named their restaurant after the Italian word for grandmother, as they admire the traditional food their nonnas used to cook.

They say: “Everything is freshly made from scratch,” says Laura. “Plus, as we are a small restaurant, you will always be welcomed by a familiar face.”

We’re ordering the...Tagliata di manzo – panseared beef slices served with rocket, parmesan and a balsamic glaze dressing. And the homemade apple pie ice cream for dessert.

Did you know? They’ve hosted many a celebrity guest including Paloma Faith and Noel Edmonds.

Opposite page, clockwise from top left: seafood kebab at Aió Sardinia; antipasto platter at Joya; pizza ready for the wood-fired oven at Yammo!; seafood platter at Martini Restaurant This page, from top: the barrel-vaulted interior of Sotto Sotto; spaghetti frutti di mare at Amarone; calamari ripieni at Nonna’s

Directors Antonio Abategiovanni, Carlo Battaglia and Riccardo Abategiovanni run the restaurant which, last year, was voted as the seventh best restaurant in the UK on the Yelp top 100 list.

They say: “We are proud that we have a regional cuisine offering,” says Antonio. “The main characteristic of our cuisine is simplicity. We rely on the quality of our ingredients rather than on elaborate preparation.”

We’re ordering the...Capesante con crema – seared scallops with aubergine and cream of buffalo mozzarella – and the Filetto di manzo con crocchette di dolcelatte, because the strong flavour of the dolcelatte cheese perfectly matches with the fillet steak.

Did you know? 300 years ago, the building was used as a coal cellar.

10 North Parade, Bath; www.sottosotto.co.uk

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St. James’s Café ~ Deli

TRADITIONAL ITALIAN DINING The Italian restaurant run by Italians Deservedly regarded as the best of it's type in the city, at Martini Ristorante you and your family are Italian during your visit!

Recently refurbished NOW OPEN

CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN

Open daily from 8am • Closed Sundays

5/6 St James's St, Bath BA1 2TW Phone: 01225 336106

8/9 George Street, Bath BA1 2EH Tel: 01225 460818 reservations@martinirestaurant.co.uk www.martinirestaurant.co.uk

Ponte Vecchio

Cocktail Bar • Events • Parties Open 7 days a week

The best Italian restaurant at the best location...

Ristorante & Bar

CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN • FROM SMALL GROUPS TO LARGE PARTIES, WE CATER FOR ANY OCCASION

Ponte Vecchio Restaurant is set in one of Bath’s most scenic eating locations – next to the world famous Pulteney Bridge and overlooking the River Avon.

01225 424800 • info@pontevecchiobath.com find us on

www.pontevecchiobath.com

Spring Gardens, Under Pulteney Bridge BA2 6PW

FOOD & DRINK W H AT ’ S M A K I N G T H E G O U R M E T N E W S I N B AT H

Lydia teaches students the basics

FEED YOUR SKIN The right goods help Liz look this good

Beauty guru and organic farmer Liz Earle is coming to Bath’s Waterstones on 12 September to talk about her new book Skin, which explores the you-are-whatyou-eat philosophy, alongside delivering a six-week wellbeing plan to achieving great health and good looks.

“I believe what you put in your body is just as important for your skin as what you put on it, explains Liz. “You should care for and nourish your skin from the inside out.

“The book includes 80 delicious and easy recipes using ingredients like salmon, fennel and quinoa. My other top skin-friendly foods are almonds, avocados, grass-fed beef, organic brown rice, organic eggs, oily fish, green leafy vegetables, yoghurt, seeds – especially pumpkin and sunflower – and dark chocolate that is minimum 80 per cent cocoa solids.”

For more: www.waterstones.com

NUTS ABOUT BATH It could be a case of Bath residents gathering nuts in May, and lots of other times of the year, thanks to an innovative project by Transition Bath’s Food Group.

The environmental charity has transformed a Smallcombe field alongside the National Trust’s famous Bath Skyline by planting 37 nut trees, including almonds, sweet chestnuts and walnuts for the local community to forage for free.

Virginia Williamson, convenor of the group explains, “Our aim is to promote a low-carbon, self-reliant community in the face of declining natural resources, so we wanted this new local amenity to be sustainable and organic.”

For more: www.transitionbath.org

No more hotpots for Sean

Virginia is happy to be nutty

FRESHERS’ FARE Gone are the days when students existed solely on a term-time diet of Pot Noodles, beans on toast and cider. Demuths are running vegetarian cookery courses especially aimed at 10-16 year olds.

“Having a teenage son who is about to start university, the idea of teaching students how to budget, shop and cook well is very important to me,” explains Lydia Downey who runs the course.

“When I was a student I only had two cookbooks The Cranks Recipe Book and An Invitation To Italian Cooking by Antonio Carluccio, but they were my saviours, and I cooked a lot of pasta, rice and stews.

Spicy food was a huge favourite too, so vegetable curries and lentil dhals featured a lot as they were so cheap to make, and a big pot would last for days.”

For more: www.demuths.co.uk

CORONATION CHEESE

Former Coronation Street star Sean Wilson is making a special appearance at the Frome Agricultural & Cheese Show on 10 September.

The actor, who played Martin Platt for 20 years, is now a chef and founder of The Saddleworth Cheese Company, and will be competing in a celebrity cheese-off alongside the South African former Formula One driver Jody Scheckter, who owns the biggest herd of buffalo in Europe and produces his own buffalo mozzarella cheese.

Josh Eggleton of Great British Menu fame, who runs Chew Magna’s Pony & Trap pub is judging the proceedings and explains, “They will be given the challenge of creating cheese-based dishes and the best one wins. Jody will also be bringing a baby buffalo to the show.”

For more: www.fromecheeseshow.co.uk

70 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Larkhall Butchers Best Butcher

BATH GOOD FOOD AWARDS WINNER – THIRD YEAR RUNNING

STOCK UP FOR YOUR SUMMER BBQ 1 LAMBRIDGE BUILDINGS | LARKHALL | BATH | BA1 6RS E info@larkhallbutchers.co.uk T 01225 313 987 www.larkhallbutchers.co.uk

16 Kingsmead Square, Bath BA1 2AE Tel: 01225 463442 Mob: 07957628509

There is a new way to eat noodles...

Choose different kinds of meat or seafood with over 20 different flavours (curry, soup, or sauce).

Make your own perfect meal!

Plus over 30 kinds of traditional Chinese side dishes, a variety of soft drinks, Bubble Tea and Herbal Tea.

Open 11am – 11pm 7 days a week Free delivery on any order over £12 after 6pm, within 3 miles

WINNER

best seafood

Our brand new menu is now available to view on our website Now featuring on the Waitrose Good Food Guide 2016 Lunchtime and early dinner menu ยฃ15 (including Saturday lunch)

ITALIAN AND SARDINIAN SPECIALITIES 7 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath Tel: 01225 443900 Email: info@aiorestaurant.co.uk Online: www.aiorestaurant.co.uk Aiรณ Sardinia Restaurant & Bar

newly refurbished...

Widbrook Grange Restaurant Modern farmhouse cooking from our award winning chef in an elegant grade 2 listed farmhouse, now completely re designed Also open to non residents for dinner

To see what all the fuss is about and to book a table call 01225 864750 or email stay@widbrookgrange.co.uk www.widbrookgrange.co.uk

Widbrook Grange Hotel Bradford on Avon BA15 1UH widbrookgrangehotel @widbrookgrange

@AioRestaurant

Xxxxxx

SCHOOLS of THOUGHT “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all,” said Aristotle. Turns out the Greek philosopher, metaphysical scholar and scientist may have been on to something….

By SA R A H MOOL l A

76 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

E D U C AT I O N SPECIAL

W

hile we all recognise that knowledge is acquired through the delivery of core subjects in a classroom environment, hands up who remembers when the flame was lit for a true passion in a more off-beat subject? Was it maybe on a field trip, singing in the choir, the winning goal, a poetry competition, the debating society, computer coding club or a trip to the theatre?

Often it is these, off-the-wall schooling moments that define us, inspire us and shape our paths as adults. And when we look at schools a second time around for our children, what we see in Bath and the surrounding areas is an astounding and outstanding selection of schools enlightened in the imaginative and innovative motivation of their pupils.

As Sarah Dawson, deputy head academic of Kingswood School explains, “We believe passionately that any worthwhile education will be made up of far more than preparation for examinations. Kingswood has never subscribed to the Dickensian Mr Gradgrind ‘Hard Times’ approach, and instead recognises the importance of igniting passions and encouraging independence.” Alongside a raft of clubs and activities, the school also values the importance of embracing global concerns. Sarah continues, “Ocean Awareness, Amnesty International and events for chosen charities are incredible learning opportunities.”

Amanda Woods director of marketing and admissions of Ashwicke Hall School, which is also a Gold Centre for the Duke of Edinburgh

Award, has seen the impact the very popular debating club has had. “The last topic was human cloning where students discussed both sides of the argument, considered the evidence and then voted. These activities can be seen to develop important and vital characteristics such as confidence in public speaking, listening and reasoning skills and diplomacy.”

Establishing links with local industry and businesses is another avenue explored by schools looking to reinforce curriculum activity as Principal Colin Cattanach of Bath Studio School explains, “We specialise in creative media and business, and have cultivated links with more than 50 employers to allow the opportunity for hands-on experience.”

And through such direct practice, direct results are evident. “Our design technology team work closely with the James Dyson Foundation,” says w

Clockwise from left: The entrance to Kingswood School makes a stunning first impression; a love of nature can nurture learning at St Margaret’s Preparatory School; get the chemistry right with an injection of inspiration, and being taught science at school can become a delight

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 77

E D U C AT I O N SPECIAL

Hayesfield Girls’ School and Mixed Sixth Form headteacher Emma Yates. “Their engineers come into school regularly to inspire our young women.

Recently three of our students have each gained prestigious Arkwright scholarships – which come with financial support for A Levels and degree courses at university and personal professional mentors – which were awarded for their academic success in engineering.”

Last year, King Edward’s School’s commitment to academic enrichment opportunities was demonstrated by an art and photography trip to Venice, their musicians performing alongside the Bath Philharmonia, drama pupils taking a show to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and a trip to Kenya to work on community projects as well as a school newspaper, a creative writing club, a school-produced novel and a music album for charity. “Projecting on canvas, taking part in a play, or performing with an orchestra or band can frequently help pupils gain a greater understanding of who they are, or what they can achieve,” comments headmaster Martin Boden.

Churchfields, the Village School, utilises the stunning local countryside to develop their 78 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

outdoor, out-of-classroom learning provisions as the headmaster Simon Futcher explains, “At our Forest School, the pupils learn new skills using their environment. This helps develop both a ‘can-do’ approach to life and the courage to take on new challenges.”

It is this constantly-evolving, well rounded and almost holistic approach to education that keeps our local schools distinguished and celebrated, not only in achieving high-grade academic results, but also producing the bright, happy and accomplished young people who are emerging from their schools.

“Education is no longer just about the exam board,” says Prior Park College’s academic deputy head Tom Simons. “It encompasses the academic of course, but equally must encompass the practical, moral and spiritual aspects of life. It is about the whole person.”

Karen Cordon headmistress of St Margaret’s Preparatory School, in Calne, agrees. “Children are not computers or robots that can be programmed according to our wishes; they have hearts and souls, as well as brains. What is the purpose of the best academic education, if it fails w to prepare them for life?”

Clockwise from top left: The right school can put a spring in the step of any pupil; a good education like that at King Edward’s gets to the art of the matter; Haysfield dance group work in perfect harmony to achieve great results; the right guidance at Ashwicke leads to a love of all learning

WHAT IS THE

PURPOSE OF THE BEST ACADEMIC EDUCATION, IF IT FAILS TO PREPARE THEM FOR

LIFE?

E D U C AT I O N SPECIAL YOU HAVE BEEN READING

Good sports at St Margaret’s

ASHWICKE HALL SCHOOL

Ashwicke Hall, Marshfield, Wiltshire SN14 8AG 01225 891841; www.ashwickehallschool.sabis.net Ages 11-18; Co-ed; Boarding and Day ASPIRE ACADEMY (THE LINK CENTRE)

Frome Road, Bath BA2 5RF 01225 832212; www.thelinkschool.org.uk Ages: 4-16; Co-ed BATH ACADEMY

27 Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HX 01225 334577; www.bathacademy.co.uk Ages: 16+; Co-ed; Boarding and Day THE BATH STUDIO SCHOOL

Frome Road, Bath BA2 5RF; 01225 831933; www.thebathstudioschool.org.uk Ages: 14-19; Co-ed BEECHEN CLIFF

Alexandra Park, Bath BA2 4RE 01225 480466; www.beechencliff.org.uk Ages: 11-18; Boys; Boarding and Day BRUTON SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

Sunny Hill, Bruton BA10 0NT 01749 814400; www.brutonschool.co.uk Ages: 3-18; Girls; Boarding and Day CALDER HOUSE SCHOOL

Thickwood Lane, Colerne, Chippenham SN14 8BN 01225 742329; www.calderhouseschool.co.uk Ages: 7–13; Co-ed: Day

MOORLANDS JUNIOR SCHOOL

ST BRENDAN’S COLLEGE

Chantry Mead Road, Bath, BA2 2DE 01225 421912; www.moorlandsfederation.org Ages: 4-11; Co-ed; Day

Broomhill Road, Brislington, Bristol BS4 5RQ 0117 977 7766; www.stbrn.ac.uk Ages: 16-18; Co-ed; Day

OLDFIELD PARK INFANT SCHOOL

ST GREGORY’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE

Dorset Close, Bath, BA2 3RF 01225 422903; www.oldfieldparkinfants.co.uk Ages: 4-7; Co-ed; Day

Combe Hay Lane, Bath BA2 8PA 01225 832873; www.st-gregorys.org.uk Ages: 11-18; Co-ed

OLDFIELD PARK JUNIOR SCHOOL

ST MARGARETS PREP SCHOOL

Lymore Terrace, Bath BA2 2JL; 01225 423477; www.oldfieldparkjuniorschool.com Ages: 7-11; Co-ed; Day

63 Curzon Street, Calne SN11 0DF 01249 857220; www.stmargaretsprep.org.uk Ages: 3 -11; Co-ed and Day ST MARTIN’S GARDEN PRIMARY SCHOOL

OLDFIELD SCHOOL CHURCHFIELDS, THE VILLAGE SCHOOL

Bradford Road, Atworth, Melksham SN12 8HY 01225 703026 www.churchfields.wilts.sch.uk Ages: 4–11; Co-ed

Kelston Road, Bath, BA1 9AB 01225 423582; www.oldfieldschool.com Ages: 11-18; Co-ed; Day

ST. MARK’S COE SECONDARY SCHOOL THE PARAGON SCHOOL

West Lavington, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 4HE 01380 814500; www.dauntseys.org Ages: 11-18; Co-ed; Boarding and Day

Lyncombe House, Lyncombe Vale, Bath BA2 4LT; 01225 310837; www.paragonschool.co.uk Ages: 3-11; Co-ed; Day

HAYESFIELD GIRLS’ SCHOOL

PRIOR PARK COLLEGE

DAUNTSEY’S SCHOOL

Brougham Hayes Campus & Upper Oldfield Park Campus; 01225 426151; www.hayesfield.com Ages: 11-18; Girls & Mixed Sixth Form; Day

Prior Park College, Ralph Allen Drive, Bath, BA2 5AH; 01225 835353; www.priorparkcollege.com Ages: 11-18; Co-ed; Boarding & Day

KING EDWARD’S SCHOOL

RALPH ALLEN SCHOOL

King Edward’s Senior School & Sixth Form, North Road, Bath BA2 6HU 01225 464313; www.kesbath.com Ages: 3-18; Co-ed; Day

Claverton Down Road, Bath BA2 7AD 01225 832936; www.ralphallen.bathnes.sch.uk Ages: 11-18; Co-ed; Day THE ROYAL HIGH SCHOOL

Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5RG 01225 734200; www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk Ages: 3-18; Co-ed; Boarding and Day

Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5SZ; 01225 313877; www.royalhighbath.gdst.net Ages: 3-18; Girls; Boarding and Day

MONKTON COMBE

ST ANDREW’S CE PRIMARY SCHOOL

KINGSWOOD SCHOOL

Monkton Senior School, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7HG; 01225 721137; www.monktoncombeschool.com Ages: 2-19; Co-ed; Boarding and Day 80 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Lympsham Green, Odd Down, Bath BA2 2UN; 01225 832112; www.stmartinsgarden.org.uk Ages: 3-11; Co-ed; Day

Northampton Street, Bath BA1 2SN; 01225 310135; www.standrewsprimarybath.com Ages: 3-11; Co-ed; Day

Baytree Road, Larkhall, Bath BA1 6ND 01225 312661; www.st-marks.org.uk Ages: 11-18; Co-ed; Day STONAR SCHOOL

Cottles Park, Atworth, Wiltshire, SN12 8NT; 01225 701740; www.stonarschool.com Girls 2-18 and Boys 2-12; Boarding and Day ST SAVIOUR’S CE JUNIOR SCHOOL

Eldon Place, Larkhall, Bath BA1 6TG 01225 310137; www.stsaviours-jun.co.uk Ages: 3-11; Co-ed; Day THE TUTOR DOCTOR

www.tutordoctorbath.co.uk 0333 800 1543 WELLSWAY SCHOOL

Chandag Road, Keynsham, Bristol BS31 1PH; 0117 986 4751; www.wellswayschool.com Ages: 11-18; Co-ed WESTONBIRT SCHOOL

Tetbury GL8 8QG; 01666 880333; www.westonbirt.org; Age 11-18; Girls; Boarding and Day

Starting School in September 2017?

We'd love to see you at one of our

OPEN DAYS 10a

No a m-2p m ppo nece intmen t ssar y.

Wednesday 5th October 2016

Atworth

Monkton Farleigh Friday 7th October 2016

We love our nurturing school and you will too!

All are welcome to visit to see it in action…

We look forward to meeting you.

Headteacher: Mr Simon Futcher Bradford Road, Atworth, Wiltshire, SN12 8HY Tel: 01225 703026 Email: admin@churchfields.wilts.sch.uk www.churchfields.wilts.sch.uk

Trusted In-Home Tutoring

One-to-one tutoring, at home, in and around Bath Free in-home educational consultation Expert, screened, well-matched tutors 60 day money back guarantee

Tailor-made, flexible programme, for every student • Primary and secondary • All subjects • Gifted and talented • Common entrance exam (11+ and 13+) • Organisation and study skills through our unique Academic Game Plan

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“Amazing success” in returning pupils to mainstream education (Good Schools Guide) • Co-educational day school for pupils aged 6-13 with dyslexia and other specific learning/language difficulties.

• Located in Wiltshire between Bath and Chippenham.

CreSTed approved.

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Solution Revolution is experienced and qualiďŹ ed to provide support to clients to achieve their best hopes whatever their issue might be.

tel 07788711493 email taragrettonsolutions@gmail.com www.solutionrevolution.co.uk

BARTLETT STREET

ANTIQUES

Offering a diversity and quality of stock to rival London’s Bond Street or the Portobello Road.

For the most comprehensive collection of quality Antiques, Jewellery, Fine Silver, Vintage Collectables and Fine Art outside of London with in-house working Goldsmiths.

Over 70 specialist dealers showing on stands and displaying in showcases.

#BartlettStreetQuarter Bartlett Street Antiques Centre 8 Bartlett Street Bath BA1 2QZ • Email: bartlettstreet@yahoo.co.uk Open 10am - 4.30pm Monday to Saturday, closed Sundays and Public Holidays

To contact individual dealers by telephone please use our website:

www.bartlettstreetantiquescentre.com

Fashion/gifts/stores/more

KOOKY CARRIERS

There’s only one Santoro Retail store in the world, and we have it right here in Bath.

Although the award-winning design house is internationally renowned, owners Lucio and Meera Santoro decided that the perfect spot in which to open their very first home, gift and fashion shop was in this city, and they did so less than a year ago. Alongside their range of stationary, children’s clothing, and beautiful homeware collections based around their love of art, colour and creativity, are ladies’ fashion accessories including one-off unique pieces and unusual retro items. The adorable own-brand handbags have especially caught our eye.

Each bag – whether it’s an embossed clutch or an old-school, weekend satchel – is handfinished meaning that each is different, with varying colourings and details.

Hand-finished bags, from £25 to £120, available at Santoro Retail, 32 Milsom Street, Bath; www.santoro-london.com

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2

1

3

OUT of the BLUE

4

ACCORDING TO PANTONE, THIS SEASON’S COLOUR PALETTE IS LED BY THE BLUE FAMILY, SO SAY HELLO TO AUTUMN’S HOTTEST HUE: RIVERSIDE

5

1. PACK UP YOUR TROUBLES

X-Bag Holdall, £85 Meet your perfect, oceanblue travel companion; a great choice for taking with you on lazy weekend get-aways this autumn From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

2. MAKES SCENTS

3. SUITS YOU, SIR

4. SWEET ENOUGH

5. THAT’S A WRAP

Reed diffuser, £19.99 English rosemary, patchouli and cold-pressed Italian bergamot combine to create this diffuser’s invigorating fragrance which will fill your rooms From Vinegar Hill, 16 Milsom Street, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk

Suited Pug Tapestry Cushion, £24.99 If you love dogs and haven’t yet visited the new Pug & Puffin store in Bath, then we suggest you take a trip, pronto From Pug & Puffin, 7 Northumberland Place, Bath; pugandpuffin.co.uk

Folklore sugar pot, £11.95 Spruce up your kitchen with this Wild & Wolf sweet sugar bowl, featuring a navy design by Nina Jarema From Bloomsbury, 15 New Bond Street, Bath; www.bloomsburystore.com

Alpaca blanket, £49 A soft, wonderfully textured, electric-blue throw to snuggle up in come the chillier autumn nights From Grasse, 3 Argyle Street, Bath; www.grasse.me.uk

96 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE

6

SHOPPING

7

8

9

10

6. THIS OLD THING

7. BLUE IS THE COLOUR

8. SHOE ENVY

9. INTO THE BLUE

10. DRESS TO IMPRESS

Vintage cupboard, £895 This old, painted pine cupboard would be wellplaced in a rustic, countrylook kitchen From Pencil Tree, 5 Cleveland Terrace, Bath; www.penciltree.co.uk

Harvest Moon screen print, £85 A curious fox is startled by the sudden swoop of a ghostly barn owl in this nine-colour silkscreen print

by Sally Elford From Rostra Gallery, 5 George Street, Bath; www.rostragallery.co.uk

Eva court shoe, £55 We love this edgy, vintageinspired jacquard design

by Ruby Shoo – a great alternative to black for those who are brave enough From Flock Bath, 12-13 The Corridor, Bath; www.kaniki.co.uk

Valenta glassware range, from £550 Using the century-old techniques of glass blowing, Anna Torfs creates contemporary pieces such as these cylindrical vases From Hall & Woodhouse, 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill; www. woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

Denim shirt dress, £65 Who says you can’t wear frocks come autumn?

This classic, transitional shirtdress would look fantastic with a chunky scarf and a pair of suede boots From Bibico, 9A Bartlett Street, Bath; www.bibico.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 97 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 69

Handcrafted fine kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms We offer a completely bespoke service that includes design and fitting, along with a full range of standard products. Our local team of tradesmen cover all aspects of plumbing, electrical, plastering and decorating services.

Visit our showroom located in the centre of Devizes. Open every weekday 9.30am - 5pm and Saturday 10am - 4pm.

11/12 Northgate Street Devizes Wiltshire SN10 1JL Tel: 01380 721772 www.devizesfinekitchens.com

Devizes fine kitchens

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H E A LT H A N D BEAUTY

Beyond Beauty’s bright and vibrant interior

Squoval Shellac manicure in Cake Pop

BEYOND BEAUTY Ditch the stress and call in the experts at this one-stop beautification salon who are on hand to offer utmost relaxation and a friendly chat

By E V E LY N GR E E N

O

ceanic blue is the colour of the moment, so my manicurist, Ruby – who’s donning the pastel hue on her own fingernails – at Beyond Beauty tells me. I’m a summer-weather fan but an autumn-fashion girl, so pretty brights have never appealed to me. Summer’s officially over (sigh) later this month, so, on the positive, at least that means I can get the deep cherry, plum and burgundy hues on soon.

I’m here at the salon for a spot of Shellac – described to be a ‘revolution’ in nail wear, drying instantly with a long-wear finish. Manicures – from Bio Sculpture Gel, which can last up to a month, to Minx Nail Armour, the go-to brand for those who love statement patterns, metallic or intricate 3D designs – are one of the salon’s most popular treatments. But the place is also well known for its tailored offerings.

There are options which are specifically intended for men, such as the male manicure with a matte polish finish, or the Vitru for Men facial, which aims to remove signs of fatigue and stress; and then there are the pamper packages, be it for those who want to come in solo to indulge in top-to-toe bliss; or a bride-to-be and her brood of hens in need

I’M LEFT WITH IMPOSSIBLY NEAT, SUPER GLOSSY SQUOVAL-SHAPED TALONS

of a bespoke package along with some free bubbly. The salon can be booked exclusively by large parties and, Ruby tells me, they also cater for younger groups, such as six-yearolds who can have glitter tattoos and sparkly hairdos while they eat cake.

On the more adult side of things, there are indulgent offerings like hot stone massages, their bestselling facial – the Dermalogia Skin Treatment, gorgeous body exfoliation, and heavenly Indian head massages. There are also the more health-focussed, holistic treats such as reflexology, thermal auricular therapy (known as Hopi Ear Candles) and, dare we say it, colonic cleansing massage.

It all seems wonderfully contemporary and relaxed here, without being in the least bit pretentious. Inside it’s elegant, comfortable and adorned with pink accents, vintage-look touches and feature walls decorated with nature-inspired designs. To encourage the hassle-free vibe, the place is filled with soothing candles and lanterns, but the overall feeling isn’t tranquillity, it’s affability. This is not one of those salons in which everyone speaks in hushed voices, pretending to be serene; the ladies here are vibrant, with beaming smiles and they keep the conversation flowing with their loyal customers. They know people by name here, they even have a regular that comes in every couple of weeks to have her nails done and tells the girls to ‘do what they fancy’.

“She offers herself as our guinea pig,” says Ruby. “We’d never used our green polish before, so she let us try that out on her to see what it looked like this week; green isn’t usually at the top of people’s list.”

Neither emerald nor avocado is on my agenda, so I opt, after probably a little too long a decision process – not that I felt at all rushed – for a shade outside of my comfort zone in a bid to heed Ruby’s advice on pastel tones. It’s cake pop pink for me – it’s not as garish or childlike as it sounds – it’s a subtle, neutral tone, but still nowhere near as deep and dark as I usually like. At least I look semi summery, I suppose.

My toes are tended to first and Ruby precision-paints a couple of coats on, curing each under the glow of a portable UV lamp in 30-second bursts. I’m in one of the private treatment rooms, on a bed strewn with pillows, for this – a lovely little treat. For the manicure part, I’m moved to the main salon area, so that there’s a table to rest my hands on. After some serious cuticle attention and three Shellac coats, I’m left with impossibly neat, super glossy squoval-shaped talons which, if you avoid all washing up – which I gladly intend to do – stay put for a good couple of weeks. It’s just the pick-me-up my nails were crying out for.

As I reluctantly gather my things to leave, I’m feeling totally relaxed and soiréeready for a glamorous business launch I’m attending this evening, but I’m already making a mental note to try their Body Glow exfoliation and brushing technique which is finished with a hot mitt cleanse, because everyone needs a little bit of me-time now and then.

Shellac file and polish for fingers and toes, £20 each; Beyond Beauty, 8 Chelsea Road, Bath, 01225 338838; www.beyondbeautybath.com

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E H E A LT H C A R E

MIND YOUR BACK! TEAM BREAKTHROUGH have a team of dedicated therapists and coaches who are experts in diagnosing, advising, helping manage and eradicating back pain and problems of all kinds

B

ox based Team Breakthrough have cemented their reputation as pioneers of health and fitness, physical therapy and personal training in the region. They have a world class facility, a vastly experienced team, and combine aspects of different therapies in a way that gives their customers a complete result. This is truly a unique offering.

One of the most frequent breakthroughs that they help clients with is to manage and eliminate back pain. Since Dave Wilby founded the company 13 years ago they have strived to learn from the very best therapists and coaches the world has to offer and bring that back for the benefit of the people of Bath with thousands of happy customers.

Neuromuscular therapist Sabrina Page is the latest addition to this high flying team. Having been trained by internationally acclaimed physical therapists in America alongside the guidance of Team Breakthrough's own Dave Wilby. She is in a fantastic position to explain and eradicate your back pain.

“For many of you back pain is not something you have to live with. The body is a complex thing and we believe you have to look at the big picture before zooming in on the details of the problem. This is why we would perform a full biomechanical analysis prior to addressing the issue,” explains Sabrina. “Perhaps your pelvis is out of alignment due to muscular, fascial or structural imbalances. Maybe you have segmental instability in the spine. Often we find clients have muscles such as the glutes, hamstrings and lower abdominals that are

Above demonstrates a common set of imbalances that is regularly seen at breakthrough HQ

Sabrina carrying out an assessment

switched off or inactive. This is making other muscles work harder every time you move.”

“The problem may be driven by something elsewhere in the body. Is your neck out of alignment which is holding you back from a full result? We would always check your atlas as that could be a neurological drive behind your problem. Do you have leg length discrepancies that could be making everything else operate differently?”

Whatever your back pain is caused by, there is a very high chance Sabrina will identify it.

“We see patterns down here at the facility and it seems to be a modern day problem where people spend too much time seated or inactive.

This often results in tightness through the hip flexor (psoas) muscles along with the external rotator muscles of the hip (piriformis). With these in a shortened position it leaves the lower back in a very vulnerable position. We often see Sacroilliac locking, fascet joint locking or even disc problems as a result. We can help with all of these.”

So many different possibilities I hear you say!

Well, the first step is to call Team Breakthrough and book an assessment with Sabrina. She can explain the rest from there and decide wether you need hands on physical therapy

in the treatment room or specific corrective strengthening exercises on the gym floor. With this team behind you, you don’t have to settle for being in pain. No more muscle spasm, no more sciatic pain, no more constant aching in the lower back. Team Breakthrough work with people of all ages and backgrounds.

Give them a call on 01225 743801 and tell them what Breakthrough they can help you with. Alternatively contact enquiries@ teambreakthrough.co.uk or visit the website at www.teambreakthrough.co.uk.

Team Breakthrough Unit 2,The Ley Business Park Box, Wiltshire SN13 8EH 01225 743 801 enquiries@teambreakthrough.co.uk www.teambreakthrough.co.uk

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H E A LT H A N D F I T N E S S A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

WHY YOUR CHILD SHOULD START GYMNASTICS

Your child will learn so much by taking part in gymnastics from a young age – and we don’t just mean how to execute the perfect forward roll

N

owadays, there is so much choice of activities for your child, it can feel a little overwhelming. Here’s how weekly gymnastic classes could help your child to develop into a well-balanced, confident and conscientious individual.

In a gymnastic class, your child will have to listen to and follow instructions. They will learn to move around a circuit completing different tasks, and to check on the instruction cards if they forget the next skill. Gymnasts will gain confidence when they are able to achieve the set task.

Gymnastics improves fitness, strength, flexibility and co-ordination Gymnastics builds an excellent foundation for a fit and healthy future, helping your child to obtain a strong core, sense of balance, awareness of their body and flexibility. Your child will benefit from their gymnastic background as the core skills can be easily transferred to other sports and will help them lead an active lifestyle.

Gymnastics teaches courage, self-discipline and patience Gymnastics can be scary and takes children out of their comfort zone each time they try something they are not familiar or confident with. Gymnasts very quickly learn to get back up and try again, and that perfection is not achieved first time. By practicing a skill over and over, children learn selfdiscipline, resilience, and how to overcome fear and accomplish things that scare them.

Gymnastics helps teach children how to follow directions

Gymnastics helps to develop social skills Children will meet and get to know people

of different backgrounds and cultures in their gymnastic class. Gymnasts will work as part of a group, helping to form bonds which often extend beyond the gymnasium.

At Baskervilles, we offer structured, planned and progressive gymnastic classes for children as young as 18 months. We will help your child to develop into a well-rounded individual, and you can feel confident that you have made the right decision in choosing Gymnastics at Baskervilles.

01225 330001; info@baskervillesgym.co.uk www.baskervillesgym.co.uk

Are you stuck in a beauty rut?

We can help design a regime just for you to suit your budget and the time you have available.

Our extensive range of treatments include: • Facials to suit any skin type from teenage acne to the most up-to-date anti-ageing treatments • Relaxing Massage to intensive Deep Tissue Massage • OPI Gel Nails • Eyelash Lift • IPL Hair Removal Receive • Plus all the essentials

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/11/16

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Tel: 01225 310014

www.bathbeautycentre.co.uk

ad v erti s i n g feature h e a lt h a n d f i t n e s s

Life Long Learning One of life's most important lessons is how to take care of your body, mind and self, and taking time out with Bath Iyengar Yoga Centre could be the start of a new improved focus and future A sustainable approach to wellness with Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar Yoga offers you a great opportunity to gain health and maintain it through out your whole life. It’s an approach to living rooted in ancient tradition but totally relevant to modern life. Through asanas (postures) you learn to connect with all parts of your body, mind and self. Iyengar Yoga is adaptable to meet your changing needs as you mature and age. This enables you to alleviate or cure health issues as they arise, improve your well being and lead a healthier and more integrated life.

Top teachers at Bath Iyengar Yoga Centre

Many who come to BIYC testify to its huge and continuing contribution to improving their lives.

Directors Kirsten (just back from a teaching sabbatical in Bermuda) and Richard are the most highly qualified experts in the region - with almost 60 years’ dedicated Iyengar Yoga teaching experience. They train and assess Iyengar teachers at all levels and are in demand to teach around the world as well as in the UK. They lead a well-qualified teaching team so you can be sure of authentic teaching in the hands of specialists whichever class you choose. Classes are tailored to meet

“You never stop benefiting from the advantages yoga gives you”

your personal needs and help you tackle the challenges of modern life at times to suit your busy schedule.

What you learn

You never stop benefiting from the advantages yoga gives you – improved posture, freedom of movement, toned muscles, healthy organs, steady nerves. Life skills such as how to relax and gain a balanced and serene emotional and mental state, all become more accessible through Iyengar yoga practice. As a philosophy in action yoga can take you to the deepest levels of self-knowledge and self-determination.

Find out more

Enrol on a yoga foundation course – this will give you a basic and safe introduction to yoga postures, including a taste of yoga philosophy (why we do what we do) and relaxation (we all need that). The courses last for six hours, spread over four sessions in a small group (maximum eight). The next course is on Wednesday evenings 6.00 – 7.30pm, 14 September – 5 October. If you already practise yoga there are four further levels to choose from, see the website for details.

A peaceful haven in the heart of Bath

As a dedicated yoga facility, the Iyengar Centre offers a serene atmosphere, suitable for yoga practice. The Centre combines beautiful Georgian architecture with contemporary touches. The studios are fully equipped (no need to carry any kit), changing facilities spacious and there is even a pretty secluded garden for you to enjoy. You can book classes online and manage your booking 24/7.

BATH IYENGAR YOGA CENTRE

14 Charlotte Street, BA1 2JP 01225 319699 office@bath-iyengar-yoga.com www.bath-iyengar-yoga.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 105

Bath’s leading marble & Granite co. for over 30 years Free no obligation site survey for quotation purposes

• Sinks and taps now available at competitive prices • Kitchen worktops • Bathrooms • Fireplaces • Flooring • Natural stone tiles & memorials • Bespoke templating and fitting service Office and Showroom open 8am - 5pm Monday to Friday and Saturday 9am - 1pm Tel: 01761 412934 • Fax: 01761 417068 • hobbsmarblegranite@btinternet.com Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton, Bath, BA3 2AA • www.hobbsmarbleandgranite.co.uk

a d v e r ti s in g f e at u r e g a r d e n i n g

GLORIOUS GARDEN UPGRADE Here’s a fantastic garden renovation sent to us by garden designer, Peter Reader Brief: The client’s brief was to update the garden design and introduce more interest into the main garden space by using different levels, rendered walls and new low maintenance planting, whilst retaining the feeling of openness.

Before: The majority of the garden was laid with ageing artificial turf. The wooden deck, steps and the fences were rotting away and needed to be replaced. Two of the fences were covered with ivy, which the client didn’t really like, however they did appreciate the way it softened the boundary’s appearance.

They wanted to replace the collapsing fencing and to have some new climbers, although as the garden is quite small, they didn’t want to feel too enclosed.

What was done: The old rotting wooden deck and steps were removed and replaced with natural stone. All three fences were replaced with Jacksons Horizontal Hit and Miss fencing, which works well in the space

because it provides privacy, but the gaps between the boards allow some light and air through, so it still feels open and not restrictive, and there’s the added benefit of Jacksons Fencing being guaranteed against rot and insect attack for 25 years, so it will be looking great for many years.

New climbers have been planted to reduce any starkness as their foliage and flowers soften the lines perfectly. In the area around the raised seating, the fence has been clad with Jacksons Venetian panels, so this keeps up the horizontal motif and defines the seating area as a distinct space within the garden.

developed a new flowerbed in its place.

Go to www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/bathlocal where you can find out more about these and our other products.

Have you used Jacksons products in a garden makeover that you think we should feature? We’d love to hear from you.

• louise@jacksons-fencing.co.uk

Thanks to Peter for sharing this fantastic project with us (please visit www.readerlandscapes.com) and www.belderbos.co.uk who worked on the garden construction.

Conclusion: The clients are delighted with their new garden, and are looking forward to seeing it mature over the next few years. An interesting footnote to the story is that at first the neighbours were unsure about whether to agree to the fence change and wanted the ivy left in place on their side. However, once they saw the new Jacksons fences they were delighted and have removed all the ivy and

Win a Jacksons Log Store...

To enter the free prize draw and be in with a chance to win a Jacksons Log Store, simply log on to your dedicated page, address below, and follow the easy instructions on how to enter.

The draw closes on 30 November 2016.

To enter go to: www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk/bathlocal

For info on any of Jacksons products or brochures, please call 0800 0966151 to talk to your local Jacksons Fencing Centre

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 107

Host Families Needed Hosting international students in your home is a very rewarding experience and provides a valuable extra source of income. The high standards we require are rewarded with good rates of pay, usually ÂŁ35 per night, per student.

The students we represent (typically 13-18 y/o) require good quality, caring, welcoming, full board, host family accommodation for short periods (from 2 to 21 nights).

We put a lot of time and effort into matching the right students with the right host families and we provide excellent communications and 24/7 support.

If you would like to find out more about hosting students please contact us for further information.

Tel: 01225 423327 Email: mail@crownguardians.co.uk www.crownguardians.co.uk 12a Crescent Lane, Bath, BA1 2PU

Successful, well-established year-round language school in the centre of Bath requires

HOMESTAY HOSTS IN BATH to host both short-term and long-term students.

We teach adults and teenagers, and need both single and twin-room accommodation.

For further details, including rates of payment, please contact our Accommodation Manager: Sarah Wringer, KIE Bath, 5 Trim Street, Bath, BA1 1HB Direct Line (01225) 473502, Email: sarah.wringer@kaplan.com

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E V E T E R I N A RY C A R E

JOIN THE CLUB!

Did you know that a dog is considered to be a senior citizen at around seven years and a cat at 10?

D

ue to advances in veterinary medicine our pets are now living longer. This is helped by more accessible tests to monitor organ function, and the advances in the care that can be given following detection of abnormal results, along with advances in specialist nutrition.

As with humans, our pets needs change as they grow older but as we see them everyday, subtle changes may be harder to spot, and, unfortunately they aren’t able to tell us.

Your pet may show certain indications of underlying problems such as drinking more, losing weight and being less active and by spotting potential problems earlier we may be able to help slow down, or temporarily halt, the progression of certain diseases.

These signs might indicate conditions such as arthritis, reduced kidney function or even diabetes. Unfortunately outward signs of age related diseases may not be seen until the later stages, at which time there may already be significant loss of organ function, and it may be unable to be reversed.

At Bath Vets we want to be able to help you spot these potential problems early on and to help you keep your pet as healthy as possible through their old age. We offer free Club 8+ nurse clinics at some of our branches and

can help provide advice on diet and lifestyle changes, check the heart, test urine and look for any changes such as lumps, loss of weight or dental problems. They will also be able to provide advice on potential simple lifestyle changes which may help, for example if your pet is losing weight they may suggest switching to a senior diet or if your pet is showing signs of arthritis a change of bedding or even giving a joint supplement. If necessary, your pet may be referred to a vet if further checks or tests are required.

For members of our Pet Health Club, detection and treatment of potential problems is even cheaper and easier, with a free annual urine test, twice yearly health checks and 20 per cent off certain lifestyle medications included as standard. For a small additional monthly fee members can upgrade to become a Platinum Pet Health Club member and receive an additional annual dry eye test, an annual wellness blood test as well as £25 a year off any dental work.

During a vet health check it was highlighted that Mitsy, a 14 year old cat, was drinking and urinating more. A simple blood test showed early signs that her kidneys were showing age-related function loss. Luckily, Mitsy was a Platinum Pet Health Club member so this health check and blood test were both

included in the plan.

To help prevent further loss of kidney function Mitsy was prescribed with medication which would cost £45 a month and a special diet which would cost £50 a month. As a PHC member she saves £9 a month on her medication and £12.50 on her special diet, a total monthly saving of £21.50 all for a monthly charge of £15! On top of this she also receives her annual vaccinations, flea and worming treatment.

To make a Club 8+ nurse clinic appointment or to find out more about the Pet Health Club please contact your local surgery or call 01225 832521. Further details can also be found at www.bathvetgroup.co.uk/pet-health-club.

Bath Veterinary Group Rosemary Lodge, Wellsway, Bath BA2 5RL 01225 832521 www.bathvetgroup.co.uk

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E H E A LT H C A R E

AN INCREASING NEED TO LOOK AFTER YOUR KNEES A marked rise in sporting related injuries has resulted in technological advances in knee surgery

P

ioneering knee surgery is always developing, and 2016 has so far been a big year for Circle hospital with the launch of the biological knee service, designed to treat people's damaged knees. Our specialists are using cutting-edge soft tissue techniques and cell-based therapies.

The specialist Knee Unit at CircleBath hospital is concentrating on new technologies to preserve the natural knee, and some of these pioneering surgical techniques are available to patients today, where clinically appropriate.

Many people injure their meniscus or ‘footballer’s cartilage’, which is a rubbery shock absorber in the knee. Some meniscal tears can be repaired, but the current treatment for most tears is to remove the torn part, as the meniscus cannot easily heal. Removing a piece of meniscus can lead to earlier arthritis, so the team are now inserting scaffolds to allow the meniscus to regenerate, and are using transplant menisci. Implantation of a scaffold for partial replacement of the meniscus of the knee aims to support the body’s own physiological pathways for healing by providing a threedimensional matrix for cell adhesion and vascular ingrowth, when attached to the vascular portion of the meniscus. In the short term, the procedure aims to restore the loadbearing and shock absorbing functions of the damaged meniscus, contributing to pain relief and restoring functional mobility.

The holy grail of knee surgery is to re-grow articular cartilage. Articular cartilage is the slippery gristle that covers the weight bearing surface of joints, allowing the joints to move smoothly. Normal articular cartilage surfaces moving over one another are more slippery than two ice cubes rubbing together.

The problem is articular cartilage doesn’t

“THE FUTURE OF THIS TYPE OF TECHNOLOGY IS VERY PROMISING”

Neil Bradbury guides a patient through pioneering techniques in knee surgery

easily re-grow when damaged, so Circle's knee specialists are launching cutting-edge technology called chondrocyte transplantation to take a small number of normal cartilage cells out of the knee and grow them in a laboratory before re-implanting in the knee.

Mr Neil Bradbury is experienced in the use of this pioneering surgery. Early results have been encouraging. The future of this type of technology is very promising, and companies all over the world are looking to improve this and similar techniques. The team of specialist consultant orthopaedic knee surgeons at CircleBath have refined the treatment of complex ligament injuries, and are now able to reconstruct or repair most of the ligaments around the knee through keyhole surgery. This has made a huge difference to a patient’s recovery when combined with specialist physiotherapy. Knee surgery has a very high success rate and is a constructive branch of medicine, so most people are very satisfied with the results.

CircleBath’s Knee Unit brings together leading specialist knee surgeons, including Neil Bradbury, Umer Butt, Sandor Csernus,

Paul Latimer, Ben Lankester and David Shardlow. CircleBath hospital has developed a reputation for pioneering healthcare. For more information about knee surgery, please go to circlebath.co.uk or call 01761 422288.

CircleBath hospital is a recognised centre of excellence for knee surgery, and has some of the most technically advanced diagnostics available in the world today.

To find out more about how to be referred to the Knee Unit email enquiries@circlebath.co.uk or call 01761 422288 www.circlebath.co.uk

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Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions

B AT H G E T S S ER I O US

PHOTO BY OSCAR RUSSELL (@OSCAR.RUSSELL ON INSTAGRAM, VIA @IGERSBATH

The city of Bath is alive with highly skilled talent

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

WORK FORCE

THE BIGGER PICTURE New research reveals Bath to be one of the UK’s most highly skilled cities

B

ath has emerged as one of the UK’s skills hotspots in new research, ranking just behind the academic powerhouses of Oxford and Cambridge and above London.

Nearly 60 per cent of the city’s workforce is classified as highly skilled, ranking it fourth in a national table compiled from Office for National Statistics data.

The total number of highly skilled workers – those in roles such as accountants, lawyers, doctors, nurses and teachers – in the city is 27,800. Only Oxford, Cambridge and Brighton perform better, according to the figures from NatWest’s Regional Economic Tracker.

The report also shows that the South West as a whole is outperforming almost other UK regions in attracting and developing highly skilled workers.

“People often assume Bath to be just a tourist economy, but these figures underline the exciting

growth taking place in Bath and the wider West of England. We have a flourishing services sector and rapidly expanding tech and creative sectors too,” says Bath’s MP Ben Howlett. “The future that lies ahead for our skilled sectors is also bright. The council continues to make progress with new enterprise schemes like the Innovation Quays that will provide thousands of new highly paid jobs and capacity for business growth.”

Councillor Patrick Anketell-Jones also welcomes the news, “Retaining high value jobs in Bath is one of our foremost aims. Bath is a compact city that lends itself to new and emerging business sectors whose success grows from opportunities to network face-to-face.

“The city’s unique beauty and its lifestyle offer a quality of life difficult to find elsewhere in the UK.” For more: www.natwest.contentlive.co.uk

“I’M SCARED OF HEIGHTS BUT HAVE STILL JUMPED SOLO OUT OF A PLANE AT 4,000 FEET” Which local business director has taken a leap of faith despite his fears?

Find out on page 118

27,800 THE BIG NUMBER

The number of highly skilled workers in Bath, helping make it one of the UK’s top spots for business growth Find out more opposite

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 113

BUSINESS INSIDER

ONE TO WATCH

PONTE VECCHIO Naples-born Dani Quaglietta, manager of the Ponte Vecchio restaurant found next to Pulteney Bridge, talks about working his way up the food chain, cooking as a religion and dancing ‘til dawn

Tell us a little bit about your background…

I was born in Naples, 33 years ago. And while my family is full of teachers, lawyers, writers and doctors, we all have one thing in common – we love to cook. It is like a religion for us.

Did you always want to work with food?

When I was a child, I actually wanted to be a footballer. It didn’t quite pan out that way, but I did come to England to study with the FA and became a football coach. In 2011 I was coaching over 120 children locally and was nominated Midsomer Norton sport coach of the year.

What other jobs have you had?

While I was still at school I was selling phone contracts in Naples, which taught me a lot about direct dealing with customers. However, the toughest job I have ever had, both physically and psychologically, was when I was in the army for three years.

How did you progress into working with Ponte Vecchio?

When I arrived in Bath 11 years ago, I couldn’t speak English and I’d never worked in a restaurant before. I started as a kitchen porter then a runner, waiter and onwards and upwards until I opened Yammo! I then moved on and also took a travel break before joining the Ponte Vecchio family.

What have been the high points of your career?

With Yammo! we won many awards but the one with Bath Life was unbelievable – customers then seemed to recognise us even in the street! Other all-time favourite moments have been when one of my little football players scores a goal in a match – that is an unbeatable sensation!

Who has inspired you throughout your career?

Both my parents (who I sadly lost four years ago) inspired me, but especially my mother, who was an incredible cook. Also, my grandfather used to say, “Whatever you do in your life, do it properly or don’t bother,” which has always stayed with me.

What are some of the factors that make Ponte Vecchio unique?

There is a harmony with the team that seems to be reflected in the great way we deliver. We also have a 114 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

wonderful location by the river, live music, a cocktail bar and the capacity to host a decent size party. Being an independent, we like to treat our customers like people, not numbers, and make them feel at home.

What is your favourite meal?

This changes depending on the time of year, but if I had to pick one it would be a thick-cut, meltingly tender Fiorentina steak with fresh truffle, dauphinoise potatoes, organic rocket and a great bottle of Italian red.

What do you love about Bath?

There is an unrivalled quality of life in Bath, and even though it is a small city, it is growing day by day with new and exciting food options.

Where do you like to wine and dine on a Bath night out?

There’s such a fantastic choice – but for the wine part I enjoy Sub 13, The Common Room and my local pub The Pig and Fiddle, especially when there’s live music. For the dine part – The Fox for a decent Sunday roast, Abbey Hotel’s Allium, Acorn Vegetarian Kitchen and the always inventive Menu Gordon Jones.

What might surprise us about you?

I’m a big fan of house music. I love to go to festivals or a great party and dance until the sun comes up.

For more: www.pontevecchiobath.com

Dani tried his hand at phones and football before finding food

MY FAMILY LOVE TO COOK. IT IS LIKE A RELIGION FOR US

BUSINESS INSIDER

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC

New dynamic duo Todd and Tabai talk tactics

Andy Blackwell is on the board of the AoR

REFLEX ACTION Andy Blackwell has been elected to the board of the Association of Reflexologists.

Andy, who previously worked in IT and was in the RAF, became a member of the AoR after graduating, and since early 2013 he has started up and led the Bath, Bristol & Somerset Area Group. www.aor.org.uk

HOUSE MOVE Leading West Country estate agent, Hunter French has moved from its Market Street office base in Devizes, where it has been situated for the past four years, to new premises on St John’s Street, Devizes. “The relocation is the culmination of an exciting year for Hunter French,” says director John Robinson. “The business continues to go from strength to strength and the new space now offers us the perfect space for further growth and development.” www.hunterfrench.co.uk

A SOUND BUSINESS After 15 years of trading in Avon Street, Bath, the Sony Store is moving to Westover Road, Bournemouth.

Relocation, they say, was made necessary with the arrival of the new Travelodge hotel. Ranjit Mankoo, who has managed the business since its start says, “We wish to thank all our customers and reassure them that should any existing or future customers require support, we will be available locally and can be contacted on either 07970 674622 or by email.” rsm@sonybath.co.uk

BATH RUGBY NEWS Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters Bath Rugby have appointed former All Black captain Todd Blackadder, who is one of the most highly regarded coaches in world rugby, as director of rugby.

He has been in charge of the Super Rugby franchise the Canterbury Crusaders since 2009, taking them to four Super Rugby semi-finals and two finals in that time. They have played some of the most attractive rugby in the competition under his stewardship, making the play-offs in all but one season. “I’m really looking forward to joining Bath – they are an ambitious club, with some very talented players,” says Todd. “They play attacking rugby, and have a clear vision of where they want to be.” Joining him is head coach Tabai Matson, who coached Fiji’s backs at

THEY ARE AN AMBITIOUS CLUB, WITH SOME VERY TALENTED PLAYERS

2015 Rugby World Cup and worked with Todd at the Crusaders for three years.

“Todd and Tabai bring a wealth of experience and provide a great fit for the club in terms of what we want to achieve on the pitch, the way we want to play and our desire to develop home-grown talent,” says the club’s managing director Tarquin McDonald. “They are both excited about the opportunity to help shape the club’s future and they will work very well alongside our current first-team coaches.”

The duo will be supported by first-team coaches Toby Booth and Darren Edwards, plus former club captain Stuart Hooper.

Coming fixtures: 3 September, 3:30pm, Aviva Premiership away game against Northampton Saints 10 September, 3pm, Aviva Premiership home game against Newcastle Falcons

For more: www.bathrugby.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 115

Call Monahans Financial Services now on 01225 472800 Lennox House, 3 Pierrepont Street, Bath BA1 1LB www.monahans-fsl.co.uk

With Monahans Financial Services you’re in safe hands.

Our Family Wealth Transfer Advice can help to ensure your wealth is passed on through the generations to those you care about the most.

BUSINESS INSIDER

BREAKING NEWS

Insights from Marcus Whittington

FANTASTIC FOUR Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing or important local business stories right now

BOXING CLEVER Two friends and self-confessed book geeks have teamed up to deliver teen literature through the letter boxes of young adults.

Libby Harris and Kate Morris-Double, who both studied at Bath Spa University and met whilst working at Bath’s awardwinning independent bookshop Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, are about to launch the Book Box Club, a monthly book subscription box and online book group for readers of fiction. “Each month we’ll be sending our members one new, specially selected book release, which will be a surprise, along with some beautiful bookish goodies and an invite to a members-only online book group where subscribers can

The shelf life of Libby and Kate

AWARDS SEMINAR SELLS OUT

volunteers, have helped improve the outdoor facilities at the respite centre for the charity Hop, Skip and Jump in Bristol.

As well as raising an impressive £1,885, the team pooled their resources and skills by painting, clearing, weeding, grass-cutting and planting the previously overgrown and unsafe areas along with providing a new shed for storage, interactive games and brightly-coloured planters.

“We are over the moon with the transformation and all the support we have received from Woodhouse & Law,” says the centre’s supervisor Stacey Moxham.

Bath Life Awards 2017 planning continues apace with a sell-out business seminar at The Gainsborough Bath Spa later this month – and an inventive piece of new Awards sponsorship.

Over 30 Bath businesses are due at the How to Win A Bath Life Award Seminar on 19 September. It will feature insights from the Awards team plus from former Awards judges John Law of Woodhouse & Law and Marcus Whittington of Bath Boutique Stays.

For possible late cancellations, please contact Steph Dodd at Bath Life Awards.

Latest sponsorship is an inventive move by Homelets, which will now be a special feature sponsor on the night. It indicates the clever and innovative ways that Bath businesses are finding to be associated with the Awards.

Other opportunities include Champagne Reception and AfterShow Party, plus the new shoulder event: Finalists’ reception on 2 February.

Current sponsors include: the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa (Headline) plus category sponsors Bath Rugby, Stone King, Novia, Tile & Flooring, Fidelius, Savills, Bluefin, Apex Hotels, Bath Audi, First Bus, Minuteman and Bath VW. For sponsorship enquiries, please contact pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk

For more:www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk; @BathLifeAwards

discuss the book of the month with each other and the author.”

For more: www.bookboxclub.com

JUMP FOR JOY Bath-based interior and garden designers Woodhouse & Law, along with a Ground Force-style team of friends, family and

Charity team work with Woodhouse & Law

SUPER NOVIA Novia’s brand new recruitment initiative targeting school-leavers to enter the world of finance, has proven to be right on the money.

“I have been able to increase my knowledge on a range of investment products through a three-month training programme by learning from the people around me,” explains trainee Jack Painter. “I have studied for professional qualifications, fully funded by the company, whilst I work.”

Providing an alternative route to the traditional university path is seen as a positive way of developing core skills like working in

teams, communication skills and problem solving. “Building a successful career is not only about obtaining qualifications, it also encompasses the attitudes and aptitudes that a candidate can bring to the job,” explains head of human resources Haylie Carr. “From day one our trainees here at Novia are put through a three-month in-house training programme that enables them to undertake a fully contributory role within the company with real client work and responsibilities.”

For more: www.novia-financial.co.uk

Back row: Vergel Esposo, James Norton, Beth Cohen, Sophie Haswell, Jack Painter and Rebecca Shadrick; Front row: Nick Raine, Haylie Carr and Bill Vasilieff

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WINNER’S PROFILE

BATH LIFE AWARDS

NEW BUSINESS WINNER Sponsored by

Ed Hodges is the director of Joining Forces Training, which delivers training programmes to help inspire and develop young people. Here he shares the secrets of his success, his love of Bath Rugby and his fear of heights What was it like the night you won a Bath Life Award?

We were up against some fantastic businesses so we didn’t expect to win, so when we did it was totally awesome. We celebrated that night and then, as a huge thank you, I took the team out for a slap-up meal. The award is now in pride of place in our office.

PHOTO BY PAOLO FERLA

JOINING FORCES TRAINING

Ed Hodges (third left) with Keiron Long, Tim Wannell and David Warwick

Any news to share, or exciting projects in the pipeline?

We are hoping to open our own outdoor activity centre in the next two years so we can tailor what is on offer to the young people taking part in the NCS programme and also widen our reach to give all age groups a chance to get involved.

How would you describe Joining Forces Training?

One of the schools we worked with likened JFT to being a puppy, because we’re outdoorsy, enthusiastic and have a waggy tail. I love that description. Every single person who works for us goes above and beyond, because they love what they do.

What were you like as a teenager?

I was always very active; if it was an outdoor sport, I wanted to take part. I played rugby for my school and skied as much as possible. I was also a geeky entrepreneur, never passing up an opportunity to make use of my skills in a mini business venture.

How did you get into doing what you do?

I had an 11-year career in the army starting as a tank commander and leaving when I was a major, so on paper there weren’t many transferable skills. But I wanted to use what I’d learnt about inspiring, developing and challenging people to try and give something back.

Has the business developed as you’d hoped?

So far we are on track with our initial business plan, but where it has it exceeded our expectations is in the supportive relationships we have built with schools, the local community and, most importantly, the young people we work with.

What do you aim to achieve in the next couple of years?

In our first year we delivered to 385 young people, this year it will be 555, and I want to be enhancing the lives of 1000 16 to 17 year olds in the Bath area by 2018.

Do you think being an active part of the community is important in business?

It’s a crucial part of our business; we work with local schools to give pupils a chance to take part in the Government-funded National Citizenship Service (NCS).

NCS is a three-week program with one week residential adventure training, one week of life skills and one week working on a social action project where our 16 to 17 year 118 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

olds work in the community to enhance local ventures and charities.

What do you love most about being in Bath?

I’ve had a season ticket to watch Bath Rugby for three years now, and an afternoon at the Rec is one of the highlights of living here.

I WANT TO BE ENHANCING THE LIVES OF 1000 16 TO 17 YEAR OLDS IN THE BATH AREA BY 2018

What do you do when you’re not working?

I’ve got a three-year-old daughter and nine-month-old son, so they take up most of my free time. But when I can, I also love cycling, skiing and kite surfing.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Think big and go for it.

Who are your business heroes?

The inventor, industrial designer and founder of the Dyson company Sir James Dyson, and the entrepreneur, philanthropist and hotel owner Andrew Brownsword.

Tell us something that might surprise us…

I’m scared of heights but have still jumped solo out of a plane at 4,000 feet. I love to kitesurf even though I’m secretly terrified of the open sea.

For more: www.joiningforcestraining.co.uk

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CHANGES TO DIVIDEND AND SAVINGS INCOME Jacqui Bowden from PEARSON MAY clearly outlines the impact the personal saving allowance changes will have on taxpayers and their pockets

T

he changes to dividends and savings income from 6 April 2016 hit the BBC headlines as ‘New Savings Allowance to boost income for millions from April’ but there are some winners and some losers.

The changes could have a significant impact for a number of taxpayers and depending on individual circumstances, some taxpayers may find that they need to prepare a tax return for the first time, others may notice an increase in their tax bill as a result, whilst some will see theirs fall.

Savings

Banks, building societies and National Savings are no longer required to deduct basic rate income tax at source from interest paid to savers and interest will now be paid gross.

In addition, a new Personal Savings Allowance (PSA) has been introduced. For basic rate taxpayers this is £1,000, and for higher rate taxpayers, £500. Additional rate taxpayers will not be entitled to a PSA. To illustrate the potential implications of these changes, let’s consider some examples.

Jessica is a basic rate taxpayer with pension and interest income. She receives around £1,600 in interest into her bank account (net) each year. Previously the interest will have already had £400 of tax deducted at source.

“the changes will affect taxpayers in a number of ways”

In 2016/17 the interest Jessica receives will be £2,000 since the bank will not deduct any tax. Of this, £1,000 will be covered by the PSA and £200 income tax will be payable on the remainder. HMRC will most likely try to collect this tax via Jessica’s tax code.

Lizzie is an additional rate taxpayer with self-employment income and interest on her savings of typically £10,000 gross per annum.

Previously, Lizzie paid an additional £2,500 of tax on her interest (taxable at 45 per cent of which 20 per cent was deducted at source).

Now, no tax will be deducted at source and Lizzie will notice an increase of £2,000 in her tax payable after the end of the year.

Dividends

A new dividend allowance of £5,000 has also been introduced from 6 April 2016 for UK resident individuals, and dividend tax credits have disappeared. Dividends received above this level will be treated as the highest band of income and taxed as follows:

2016/17. HMRC have indicated that they may issue a ‘Simple Assessment’ to taxpayers in this position but the detail on this has yet to be confirmed.

Alistair is a higher rate taxpayer with significant pension income and dividend income each year of £5,000. Prior to 2016/17, Alistair will have had a tax liability of £1,250 on his dividend income but for 2016/17 he will not have a tax liability on the dividends at all.

As illustrated above the changes will affect taxpayers in a number of different ways. Those affected will need to consider their individual circumstances and we would be happy to provide assistance on how their tax liability for 2016/17 may be affected.

The above is for general guidance only and no action should be taken without obtaining specific advice.

Jacqui Bowden BSc(Hons) ACA

l 7.5 per cent basic rate taxpayers l 32.5 per cent higher rate taxpayers l 38.1 per cent additional rate taxpayers Mo is a basic rate taxpayer with employment income of £30,000 and dividend income of around £10,000 pa. Mo will not have had a tax liability on his dividend income in 2015/16 In 2016/17, Mo will have a tax liability of £375 on his dividend income.

Individuals in this circumstance may need to complete a Tax Return for the first time in

- Celebrating 175 Years -

37 Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DA 01225 460491 mail@pearsonmay.co.uk www.pearsonmay.co.uk

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

THE OLD RECTORY 124 LIFELIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 112 II BATH CLIFTON I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

Packed with personality, charm and reminders of its past (including ancient, carved graffiti), it’s easy to fall for this beautiful and historic home in Hilperton

By E V E LY N GR E E N Photo g raphy by PE T E R T R AV E R S www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 125 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 113

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

H

aving relocated the headquarters of their company, Prezola, to central Bath earlier this year, husband and wife Dom and Ali Beaven are following suit themselves.

After almost four years, they’ll be moving out of their family home in Hilperton and will be aiming to find a home within striking distance of Queen Square where their wedding gift list registry is now based.

They’ll be sad to leave their current home, though, which is packed with beautiful, and some surprisingly unique, features and sits in a quiet, peaceful area overlooking lush open countryside.

“The house has a lovely relaxed air to it and it’s a really comfortable place to be, whatever the season,” says Dom. “It’s an escape. Plus, with two teenagers in the house, there’s bags of space for everyone to do their own thing but also later meet up for meals in the kitchen.”

Snuggled at the end of a long private driveway, the detached house, which was built in late 1700s, is brimming with history; it’s a former rectory, and the room that now houses the kitchen was the Sunday school room.

“The Bath stone canopy over the back door is covered with ancient carved graffiti,” says Dom. “Presumably this was done by naughty boys and girls who were sent outside for misbehaving, and the doorbell is over 200 years old and still works perfectly well today.”

Last year, the couple restored the place from top to bottom, vamping up the “dated and tired” look, while being sensitive to the intact period features that laid within – from the fireplaces, working shutters, flagstones and floorboards throughout, to the architraves, joinery and those incredible floor-to-ceiling Georgian sash windows.

“Parts of the house hadn’t been touched at all,” says Dom. “So the floor plan has been tweaked to take advantage of the views, windows and access to the gardens.”

126 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise, from left: a beautifully appointed reception room; the Scandi-chic living room; double doors leading out to the manicured gardens; the newly refurbished kitchen

HOUSE NUMBERS

4,321

square foot of space

4-5

reception rooms

£1.25M price

6

bedrooms

1

acre of mature gardens

They chose to decorate in a way that’s relaxed and natural, playing to, and enhancing, the original features. There’s an abundance of minimalistic white, grey and stone tones, along with polished floors and splashes of colour through artwork, furniture and accessories, which can all be changed easily.

The accommodation on the ground floor comprises a reception hall, sitting room, dining room, cloakroom, and store, which is located in the former service wing of the house. But Dom’s two favourite rooms on this floor are the spacious double drawing room, which, he says, is equally great for “entertaining in, or for vegging out in front of one of the two fires,” and the kitchen, in which modern additions have been tied in with the original features, such as the limestone hearth and marble worktops. The kitchen then leads straight out into the enclosed, mature gardens which wrap all the way around the house.

“Facing south, the main elevations overlook open farmland which is a real treat and means you really could be anywhere,” says Dom. “The trees are the main event and the garden really is like a private arboretum with some amazing, huge specimens. Although it’s an acre, it feels like more due to the retained original landscape design which breaks the space into ‘rooms’ and distinct areas. Some parts are left completely wild (not good for OCD gardeners) while some areas are manicured.”

There are two staircases to the upper floor where the master suite and dressing room plus a further five bedrooms enjoy fine aspects over the gardens and the views beyond.

For many, just the sound of the address ‘The Old Rectory’, would be enough to seal the deal, and yet, the style, substance and unique old touches of the house can easily outweigh its surface draw. Just ask Dom.

Cobb Farr, 35 Brock Street, The Circus, Bath BA1 2LN; 01225 333332; www.cobbfarr.com

Red Lion Quarry Off Frome Road, Odd Down, Bath Prices from £335,000 to £365,000

Staple Hill North East Bristol Prices from £189,950 to £249,950

An exciting opportunity to acquire one of 14 brand new homes in this bold and contemporarily styled development by successful local developers Crossman Homes.

A choice of 10 apartments (including a superb three bedroom penthouse) situated in a brand new elegant four storey building situated just of this bustling high street between Downend and Fishponds.

A choice of three bedroom and four bedroom modern townhouses.

Elegant interiors with fitted kitchens, bathrooms and luxurious en-suite shower rooms to master bedrooms. Tucked away enclosed development close to local shops with gardens and allocated parking.

Now under construction, build completion anticipated Autumn 2016.

Two bedrooms, bathroom and living room with fitted kitchenette, Double glazed, Gas CH and allocated – parking space. Excellent access to transport links and city centre. Ideal for FTB for investors. Build completion anticipated October 2016.

T: 01225 471116 crossmanhomes.co.uk

COMING EARLY 2017 FOUR NEW LUXURY HOMES Box Road, Bathford, Bath Four individually designed luxury detached properties. Available Early 2017.

T: 01225 325857

timbennettandassociates.co.uk

Beechwood House, Winsley. Guide Price £1,300,000.

A substantial village home in good grounds in the heart of ever popular Winsley near Bath & Bradford-on-Avon. Beechwood House is a well-proportioned village home set in about 4 acres of grounds approached along a winding drive from the lane near the heart of “old” Winsley village. The welcoming entrance/dining hall sets the scene for the rest of the accommodation rather well, being comfortably proportioned. The Impressive drawing room with fireplace, dual aspect & access to the sun terrace is the principle reception room.

Adjoining this we find an attractive garden room. The kitchen diner & open plan family room may well be the heart of the home. We also find a utility & cloakroom. Upstairs are four bedrooms. The grounds are lawned with a spectacular variety of trees providing shady spots & sunny glades in equal measure. There is ample parking, double garage & detached studio out building.

Tel: 01225 866747 27 Market Street, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, BA15 1LL email: info@jeremyjenkins.co.uk • website: www.jeremyjenkins.co.uk

Netherby Cottage, Box. Guide Price £525,000.

Netherby Cottage is a handsome Grade II village home. A detached home bang in the middle of Box. The ground floor offers a procession of rooms from the cottage style kitchen dining room, through a separate second reception to the sitting room with wood burner.

The utilities are tucked away at the rear of the house. Upstairs there are lots of interconnecting rooms some are bedrooms, two are hobby rooms plus attic spaces. The cottage garden is at the rear; private, landscaped, part terraced with patios and lawns and a useful store. There is on street parking outside the cottage.

Gable House, Bradford-on-Avon.

Guide Price £595,000.

A charming period home in this prize spot. Lots of character over three floors, pretty garden & parking complete the picture. Gable House is on the western fringes of town. The ground floor is surprisingly large. We find an entrance hall which leads to the kitchen and then the study. Take another route and we find the dining room, the sitting room with fireplace and beams. Lastly there is the smart bathroom. The first floor has the main bedroom and a shower room. Upstairs again we find two further bedrooms. Externally is a pretty and off street parking!

Tel: 01225 866747 27 Market Street, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, BA15 1LL email: info@jeremyjenkins.co.uk • website: www.jeremyjenkins.co.uk

THE APARTMENT COMPANY Selling & Letting Bath’s finest apartments

Duke Street

Offers in Excess of £650,000

Grade II listed • Georgian • Ground & Lower ground floor • Three double bedrooms • Private courtyard • City Centre • Approx 1615 Sq ft

We are delighted to bring to market this deceptively large and well positioned garden maisonette situated on a pedestrianised street in the heart of the city. The apartment is accessed via the ground floor level, where you will find a large hallway, with double two bedrooms and family bathroom. Stairs then lead down to the lower level where you will find the spacious fitted kitchen with ample dining space and the well appointed drawing room with views over the courtyard. The lower level of the apartment has been sympathetically refurbished to include a third bedroom with en suite, a separate dining room and French doors opening to a delightful courtyard which is perfect for alfresco dining.

Great Pulteney Street

Offers in Excess of £550,000

Grade I listed • Georgian • Top floor • Lateral conversion • Contemporary kitchen • Three bedrooms • Prestigious address • Approx 1,213 Sq Ft

Situated in the renowned Great Pulteney Street we are offering a unique laterally converted apartment boasting three double bedrooms.

Occupying the whole of the top floor the apartment comprises: entrance hall which leads to the rooms at the front of the property including spacious sitting room and contemporary fitted kitchen. Two of the bedrooms are located at the rear of the property, with the master bedroom in the middle of the apartment with an en suite. Finally there is a study area and a large family bathroom.

Sales: 01225 471144

abrd

Henrietta Street

Offers in Excess of £425,000

Grade I listed • Georgian apartment • Two double bedrooms • Second floor • Central location • Recently refurbished • Approx 756 Sq ft

Located just minutes away from the historic City of Bath, boasting a variety of restaurants, bespoke shopping and beautiful attractions is this stunning two bedroom apartment. Accessed via the second floor, you will find, an entrance hall with built in cupboards, spacious sitting room with space for dining, large kitchen with integrated appliances, two double bedrooms and finally a luxury bathroom. With its superb and tastefully finished decor this apartment is definitely one not to miss and we anticipate a great deal of interest in this property.

Marlborough Buildings

Offers in Excess of £345,000

Grade II Listed • Georgian • Second floor apartment • One double bedroom • Stunning views • Prestigious location • Approx 544 Sq Ft

Adjacent to the famous Royal Crescent sits a grand row of Georgian Townhouses which forms Marlborough Buildings. A stones throw away from all the City has to offer including, bespoke shopping, award winning restaurants and of course all the historic attractions, this apartment is a gem. The property is accessed via the second floor of a laterally converted building, where you will find a good sized entrance hall with storage cupboards, sitting room boasting views over the well manicured allotments and park beyond, a well equipped Mark Wilkinson kitchen, double bedroom with large wardrobes and finally a modern bathroom.

Lettings: 01225 303870

abrd

P R O P E R T Y A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

WHAT CAN TEAM GB TEACH YOU ABOUT SELLING YOUR HOME?

W

Peter Greatorex at THE APARTMENT COMPANY discusses how the athletes can influence you when it comes to putting your property on the market

ere you gripped by Olympic fever? We certainly were hooked, the inspiring athletes pushing themselves and their bodies to the extreme to have a chance of winning a medal. A place where one wobble, a slight error in judgment and a tenth of a second can mean the difference between a being on the podium or not. But what can these athletes teach you about selling your home?

Dedication When our athletes talk about their journey, they tell stories of years of hard work, sacrifices and complete dedication to their next goal. Selling a home requires dedication, it is the time to transform your property so it can be the best version of itself when the photographs are taken and viewings begin.

Trust Our athletes don’t get to the top of their game on their own, it takes a whole team of people who trust and believe in each other. As an athlete trusts their coach, you should trust the estate agent you choose to always have your property’s best interest as their priority.

If you’re dedicated, trust your estate agent, prepare your property to perfection, listen and react to feedback, you too will be a champion and your gold medal will be a successful sale.

Let The Apartment Company be part your selling success story.

Preparation The athletes look at every single detail of their performance and see if they is a way they can improve. Look at your apartment through the eyes of a buyer and not as your home.

Listening and acting on feedback To improve you have to listen and act on the feedback given to you. Any feedback we give you will be in the best interest for your apartment; therefore acting on our feedback could actually increase the value of the offers you receive.

For more advice visit our blog at www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk/newssearch.aspx Sales: 01225 471144 Lettings: 01225 303870 www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk

T 01225 474 591

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B AT H L I V E S

Q&A

O

Below: Mantra feather pendant necklace; Life’s Journey bangles

n top of owning designer jewellery stores in the city, Jo Stroud has founded her own jewellery brand called Mantra. As her Fabulous store is soon to move out of its long-established home in SouthGate, Jo tells us about the exciting upcoming pans for the business.

We hear there are changes coming up with your Fabulous designer jewellery store?

Yes, a lot! I established it 11 years ago and we now stock over 30 brands and designers. I have shops in Bath, Leamington Spa and Solihull, and there are some big changes happening with the Bath store. We have decided that SouthGate isn’t quite the right location for us. It’s a great part of the city, and I love its vibrancy, but it’s a little too ‘young’ in terms of the customer base. So we are planning to move Fabulous next year, to a different part of the city. Our Pandora store will stay in SouthGate, though.

Can we expect any special events to coincide with the move?

We are holding some pop-up events between this month and Christmas at the Abbey Hotel and at the new luxury boutique hotel, No.15 Great Pulteney, to bring Fabulous to a wider audience.

JO STROUD The owner of Fabulous designer jewellery store and Pandora Bath talks sharks, life mottos and being a dinner lady

You’ve recently founded your own jewellery brand, too. Tell us about it…

It’s called Mantra; it’s an inspirational jewellery brand. So I have become a designer-maker as well as a retailer, which is hugely exciting.

What’s your personal mantra in life?

I have so many. Here are just a few: ‘go confidently in the direction of your dreams and live the life you have imagined’ and ‘change your thoughts and you change your world’.

Can we expect any other ranges from you in the near future?

We’re launching Life’s Journey this month, a beautiful sterling silver collection that celebrates your individual journey through life; as well as adding several new lines to our Mantra collection.

Who inspires you?

Diana Nyad. I watched a lot of TED talks when I trained for the London Marathon earlier this year, and heard Diana talk about being the first person to swim across the shark-infested waters between Cuba and Florida. What inspired me was that she attempted it five times in her life, finally succeeding at the age of 64. She never gave up, and that level of dedication is truly inspiring to me.

Have you always been involved in jewellery?

No, I worked in book retail for seven years, then I moved into marketing for the next seven, working with clients like BMW and Aston Martin. There came a point I decided it was time to launch my own business, so I set up Fabulous in 2005.

What are the best and most challenging parts of the job?

I love creating our own brands and designs, and writing the stories around them, but the high street is a tough place to be right now, so you have to be continually looking for solutions and opportunities.

Your most treasured possession?

An old black and white photo of my dad in the 1950s; he passed away last year, so I keep a digital copy of this photo on my iPhone in case the original ever gets lost.

Surprise us…

My first job was as a school dinner lady. I was hopeless; I gave away all the strawberries to the first sitting, so the unlucky kids on the second sitting had no dessert.

Finest hour (so far)?

Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Fabulous last year; being made one of the ‘Hot 100’ in the jewellery industry last year; and launching our own collections of jewellery.

138 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Any hidden talents?

I hanker after making a living through my writing one day.

What do you love most about Bath?

For me, it’s the sheer beauty of the city. I love its history, art and architecture. It’s easy to feel inspired, uplifted and creative here because of the beauty all around you.

Your favourite shop, pub and restaurant in Bath?

I love Rossiters as there is so much to explore in there; the ArtBar at the Abbey Hotel is my favourite watering hole; and Hudson Steakhouse is, without question, the best place for a steak.

Favourite view in the city?

I looked around the new No.15 Great Pulteney boutique hotel recently, and that has some lovely vistas across the city.

The ideal place to while away the day in Bath?

Two years ago, my team and I did a 30-mile charity walk along the River Avon from Bath to Bristol, and back, for Breast Cancer Now. I saw how lovely the countryside around Bath is, and it’s become a favourite spot.

See www.fabulouscollections.co.uk and www. mantrajewellery.co.uk for more