Bath Life – issue 324

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 324 / 14 – 28 OCTOBER 2016 / £3

@BathLifeMag

SPECIAL ISSUE

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 324 / 14 – 28 OCTOBER 2016 / BATH AT WORK

READ OUR LIPS WE CHAT TO BATH’S COOLEST ARTIST, TIM DADDIO

MODERN MEN OF BATH

+ 14

MORE GUYS MAKING THIS CITY ROCK WORK IT THE CITY'S FUNKIEST OFFICE SPACES POT LUCK TRY YOUR HAND AT A CERAMICS WORKSHOP MEATY RESTAURANTS ARE RAISING THE STEAKS HOMME-AGE TO GENTS’ ACCESSORIES

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 324 / 14 – 28 OCTOBER 2016

Bath DJ Martin Badder performing at Womad festival

36

MODERN MEN

There’s plenty for Bath chaps to enjoy in this issue

PHOTO BY WWW.TOMSMITHPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

Cometh the hour…

With its brilliant womenswear and accessory boutiques and status as one of the UK’s hen party capitals, Bath is often viewed as a city for the ladies, so we’ve decided to redress the balance by focusing this issue on some of the most talented, cool and remarkable gents inspiring us right now. So flip straight to page 36 to get to know 15 Bath blokes – from a foodie who’s worked alongside some of the world’s best chefs, and a digital pin-up artist, to a London Fashion Week hairdresser and a very popular Bath Rugby player.

We’ve also been visiting five of the city’s best steakhouses (page 70), shopping for the fellas (page 80) and chatting to David Flatman about what it means to be a ‘proper man’ in the modern world – spoiler alert, there’s no such thing – (page 29).

Even our gorgeous Somerset Place apartment could potentially be the ultimate bachelor pad – turn to page 108 to see If you agree.

Elsewhere, we look inside eight of the most fascinating business interiors in the city (page 88), get to grips with a ceramics workshop (page 56) and discover the new-season Lurdes Bergadà collection at Blue at The Loft (page 79).

Enjoy…

Lisa Evans, Editor Follow us on Twitter: @BathLifeMag 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 324 / ISSUE 324 / 14 – 28 OCTOBER 2016

88

OFFICE AFFAIRS

Work it baby! Fall in love with local firms, breaking the mold and making their offices, beautiful spaces to work

122 Bath lives

We catch up with local boy Tim Moss of Moss of Bath

REGULARS / ISSUE 324 / 14 – 28 OCTOBER 2016 M E ET T H E T EAM

THE ARTS

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

47 Arts intro Take time to reflect on The Holburne Museum’s Silver: Light and Shade exhibition

Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Assistant editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Emma Bond, David Flatman, Nic Bottomley and Jennifer Jennings 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 Sales executive Alana Medforth alana.medforth@mediaclash.co.uk

48 What’s on Time to update the events diary

56 Meet the maker Elisabeth Barry drives us potty in a good way

61 Bookshelf Nic Bottomley looks at books with unisex appeal

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

63 Film Jennifer Jennings Wright previews the latest Little Theatre screenings

FOOD

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

64 Restaurant We’re charmed by Bath’s Charm Oriental Bar and Restaurant

70 Try 5 steaks Become a steak holder with our round-up of five of the best steakhouses in the city

77 Food & drink news We serve up the latest on Sumayya Usmani, winning ales and a coffee bar sale

SHOPPING 79 Shopping intro Lurdes Bergadà brings her urban chic clothing brand to Bath thanks to Blue at The Loft

80 Editor’s choice Our homme-age of men’s accessories and gifts

56

Bath Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

LIFEST YLE

PROPERT Y

86 Travel

108 Property showcase

We take the high road, all the way up to Scotland

Where Georgian splendour meets contemporary style

BUSINESS

DEPARTMENTS

99 Business insider

13 16 29

The latest news, views and interviews from the region’s professionals

Spotlight Society A man’s world

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

On the cover Tim Daddio’s art work is part of our celebration of the talented men from Bath.

See the feature on page 36

BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES

A beautiful hotel where the staff are stars

Lydia with her beloved mother who passed away in August

BATH HALF

RUNNING FOR MUM While there are many good reasons to take part in the Vitality Bath Half Marathon, which takes place on 12 March, raising money for a recently-deceased loved one has to be one of the most poignant ones, as well as a major motivating factor.

Bath resident Lydia Storr-Meddings explains, “I have chosen to run for Dorothy House in memory of my mother who was diagnosed with stage 4 endometrial cancer in September 2015, and passed away 6 August this year.”

Lydia, who was living in South Africa at the time, moved back with her wife Rachael to look after her mother. “Over the following 10 months, my mother also received valuable support and help from Dorothy House, whose nurses visited her at home, at times on a daily basis.

I would like to repay Dorothy House in anyway I can, as the comfort, support and help given was so gratefully received.”

For more: www.bathhalf.co.uk

WINNING HOTEL

STAR STUDDED The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa has just been awarded the AA’s most prestigious hotel rating, the five red star award. The news was announced at the AA Hospitality Awards in London on 26 September.

General manager Jonathan Stapleton explains, “We’re delighted to be one of only five hotels to receive the AA’s five red star award. This year has seen the opening of our newly revamped The Spa & Bath

House, as well as our beautiful Walled Wedding Garden so we can’t imagine a more appropriate time to be recognised.

We also have the 250th anniversary of The Royal Crescent coming up in 2017 so there’s a lot to celebrate.”

Turn to page 106 for our interview with The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa’s marketing manager Sarah Moon.

For more: www.royalcrescent.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT

BATH LIFE AWARDS

PHOTO BY CHRIS WAKEFIELD

JUST THE TICKET

Secure your tickets for the best show in town

Tickets for the Bath Life awards are much-coveted and always sell-out, with usually about 100 on the waiting list hoping to secure a place. There’s a physical maximum of 500 in the Assembly Rooms, with availability further curtailed by the record-breaking number of sponsors this year.

So a new plan for 2017 has been unveiled by the ceremony’s organisers, as event manager Steph Dodd explains, “A maximum of eight associate tables will go on sale on 8 November via the website – first come, first served. The only remaining tables will be available for sponsors and finalists.

“No single tickets will be

on open sale in the ballroom, though they will be available in the tea room. An allocation is being held back for finalists in January. In the highly unlikely event that any remain, there’ll go on open sale in February.

“Every year demand for tickets significantly exceeds supply – as shown by the ever-rising waiting list.

And several of our finalists either couldn’t get tickets or couldn’t have as many as they wanted for their teams.

“So there will be limited ‘open’ ticket sales and an extra provision for finalists.

We do have a limited number of sponsorships available interested companies will have to move fast though.”

The decision to allocate more tickets for finalists makes the Grand Finalists’ Reveal day of 17 January even more important.

And this year, the big day has a perfectly paired sponsor: SearchStar.

Steph says, “The Grand Reveal is always a big event, when every nominee discovers if they’ve made it as a finalist, so we’re delighted to have intelligent search company SearchStar for our partners - on the site, on reveal emails and on Twitter.

“Also,” adds Steph, “don’t forget, nominations for the Awards open on 1 November.

For more: Twitter:BathLifeAwards www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

Violin practice pays off for local student Seren Nickson

MUSIC COMPETITION

MAKE A NOTE Bath Young Musician of the Year 2016 is about to return with five high achieving young musicians competing for the prestigious title in the Pump Rooms, Bath on 8 November.

Amongst the finalists is Hayesfield Girls’ School student Seren Nickson.

Seren plays violin with the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain and says, “A career highpoint was performing Holst’s Planets at the Proms, as well as solo concerto opportunities with orchestra, chamber music scholarships and Junior Guildhall each Saturday, where I am able to immerse myself in my obsession.”

The Mid-Somerset Festival, which organises the competition along with the Bath Young Actor of the Year Awards is one of the oldest festivals in the UK. Founded in 1902, it has run continuously for 114 years, even through both World Wars, and has been based in Bath for 64 years.

For more: www.midsomersetfestival.org.uk

FESTIVAL NEWS

MOVING FURTHER AFIELD

Flora and Josh’s fest is among the best

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

It may have been her first festival but Flora Blathwayt, a former pupil at Prior Park Collge, is up for two festival awards, along with co-founder Josh Beauchamp.

The independent music and arts Samphire Festival, which took place in July at Exmoor National Park, has been nominated by the National Outdoor Events Association for PR Campaign of the Year

Award, and Small Festival of the Year Award.

Flora, who will find if she’s won on 24 November at a ceremony held at Bath’s Pump Rooms, says, “We’re delighted – Samphire got off to a fantastic first year with brilliant performances and we’re already planning next year’s event which will take place 7 – 9 July.”

For more: www.samphirefestival.com

Adventures in party-going

Adrian Barkley, Jill Marles and Charlotte Hanna

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

DESIGN CLASSIC

Anna Traylor, Adrian Barkley and Emma Collins

Guests gather to listen to speeches

Award-winning Bath-based design agency Mytton Williams celebrated 20 successful years with 80 clients and friends at the Holburne Museum on 9 September. Champagne, local ale and canapĂŠs were served, followed by live jazz music from Tom Berge Trio and speeches from creative directors, Bob Mytton and Sophie Williams.

Photos by Beth Newman www.soul-media.co.uk

Dickie Berge, Sophie Peogh and Kate Berge

Jonathan Walker, Christa Taylor, Caroline Browning, Jean-Luc Bouchereau, Ian Taylor and Hazel Walker Xxxxx 16 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Hannah Lee, Ed Robin, Carl Godfrey, Sophie Williams, Bob Mytton, James Fishlock and Sophie Eyles

SOCIETY Amanda Turner, Margaret Favager, Jack King, Rachel Clarkson-Short and Charles Everitt

MEAT AND GREET Leading estate agents, property developers and builders gathered on 15 September for an Italian-themed event, which began with a drinks and charcuterie reception amongst the hobsons|choice bulthaup kitchen displays. Peter Milton, owner of Larkhall Butchers, also conducted a sausagemaking competition, which was won by architect David Hadfield.

Photos by Adam Carter www.adamcarterphoto.com

Steven Shepard, Richard Carter and Matthew Blower

Graham Craig, Peter Milton and Clive Hathaway Caroline Tyler, Tony Perry and Deborah Perry

Peter Milton advises on the art of sausage-making

Frankie Watson, David Hadfield and Naomi Pound

Rupert Hart, Euan Woodman and David Mackenzie

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

TIM WOOD LIMITED DESIGNERS & MAKERS OF FINE BESPOKE LUXURY KITCHENS, BEDROOMS, BATHROOMS & FURNITURE BATH LONDON WORLDWIDE • 01225 703313 www.timwood.com

SOCIETY Alison Hockenhull and Robin Sturges

INDEPENDENT DRINKING To mark 10 years of independent trading in Bath, Marty Grant, owner of the award-winning restaurant and bar Gascoyne Place, hosted a party for 120 guests on 12 September. Welcome drinks, nibbles and live music from the electro swing trio The Swingersband, ensured the happy celebrations went on well into the night.

Photos by Beata Cosgrove www.beatacosgrovephotography.com

Julia and Simon Emery Lindsay Udall and Rosie Buck Jonathan and Gillian Sanders

Tony and Wendy Pidgeon Martin and Alison Watson Anastasia Agliardi, Jean Pierre Auge and Brigitte Touret

Serra and David Kerrigan

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SOCIETY

MONEY MATTERS Simon Ewings, managing director of Monahans Independent Financial Advisors, held a drinks and canapÊs reception at the Georgian manor house, Hartham Park, Corsham on 15 September to thank the company’s clients and update them on the growth in business.

Photos by Beata Cosgrove www.beatacosgrovephotography.com

Richard Davies, Denise Davies, Sue Roberts and Alan Roberts

Simon Ewings and Steve Missen Janet Neale and David Neale

Roger Quiggin and Marilyn Quiggin

Tilly Pottinger and Andrew Pottinger

Bob Luckett and David Rawstrone

Samantha Young and Laura Randall

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

Ian Knowles, Jane Knowles, Sylvia Gibson and Terry Gibson

SOCIETY

BREAKING RECORDS Bath’s Hall and Woodhouse bar and restaurant was the venue for a breakfast reception on 15 September to hear the exciting announcement that this year’s Bath Boules, which was backed by more than 500 companies, had raised a record-breaking £41,424 for local Bath charities.

Richard Hall, Jo Common and Paul Crossley

Grenville Jones and Jacqueline Bennett

Photos by Beata Cosgrove www.beatacosgrovephotography.com

Maggie King and Kat Lazenby

Nigel Harris, Deborah Steele and Tony Husband

A TALL STORY

Karen and John O’Connor

Elizabeth Whitehouse

The specialist womenwear shop, Long Tall Sally on Broad Street, celebrated its 40th birthday in store on 10 September. The event was attended by 150 guests, who marked the ruby anniversary with Bucks Fizz, cupcakes, shortbreads and sandwiches courtesy of Best of British, also based on Broad Street.

Photos by Ellen Peters www.ellenpeters.co.uk

Jess Dayman-Johns

Brenda Parry 24 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SOCIETY

WISH YOU WELL

Ian Byworth, Shirley Reynolds, Sue Barrow and Carl McMurtry

To mark the first birthday of the Curo & Sirona Wellbeing House in Bloomfield Road, Bath, which provides a retreat for people experiencing emotional distress, the organisation held a tea and cake afternoon on 16 September, with previous clients visiting and sharing their experiences.

Jenny Milsom, Harriet Bosnell, Paul Wilson, Catherine Moule, Mo Kingston, Mandy Barrett and Mike Williams

Photos by Beata Cosgrove www.beatacosgrovephotography.com

Ali Binns, Anne-Marie Rose and Mandy Barret

Julie Rivers, Mo Kingston and Catherine Moule

AN INSIDE LOOK Interior designer and founder of Latham Interiors Sarah Latham, officially launched her specialist Georgian and Regency interior design practice in Guinea Lane, Bath on 15 September with a select party attended by 35 friends and guests. Drinks were supplied by Great Western Wine and Bath Ales, and accompanied by canapés from Blue Quails Deli, which included smoked salmon blinis with caviar and crème fraîche.

Sally-Anne Watts and Kitty Lambah

Clare Lovering and Katie Lovering

Photos by Adam Carter www.adamcarterphoto.com

Lucy Robinson, Vicky Nind, Sarah Latham, Kellie Marsh and Charlie Salter

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

A MAN’S WORLD

DAVID FLATMAN

MACHO, MACHO MAN Flats muses over what it means to be a ‘proper bloke’ in the modern world...

T

his is the blokey issue of Bath Life, so I want to talk about being a bloke. In the interests of honesty and openness, I’ll admit that I’ve always regarded myself as a ‘proper man’.

Whatever a proper man is, that’s what I am. I mean, there’s the thick neck, the sufficiently deep voice, the natural spoken volume of an alpha male, and there’s the background in what is essentially a combat sport. So, all pretty macho.

On and off, I’ve always lifted heavy weights in gyms, grunting all the while. I’ve always – whether financially justifiable or not – driven smart cars.

I love to eat large pieces of red meat and, when gifted some alone time with the iPad, spend my time scrolling through horsepower comparisons on power tools. In short, I tick a lot of dated, stereotypical boxes.

However, something that this man has learnt from the women in his life is that very few of the habits and behaviours listed above have anything to do with being a man (what I would like to say here is that one of the greatest men I know is a vegan, as that would prove my point beautifully. I know two vegan lads and they’re both absolute wetters. I fully expect that these contemporaries of mine are the inconvenient exception to the rule, though).

I guess that a lot of the learning a man does comes with age, and through large experiences like marriage, the birth of children, and enduring friendships. To this end, I expect there’s a huge amount left to learn. To this point, though, I’ve found the real feelings of manliness do not indeed come from the fancy cars or the clanging of dumb bells. Instead, they flood one’s system when practicing familial

loyalty, when offering primary care to unknowing children, and when pulling one’s weight domestically.

None of these activities are necessarily glamorous, or even visible.

In truth, much of being what I regard a good man is mundane. But it is the relief offered to the person more often laden with such tasks that should be the reward. That, and the enriched sense of fulfilment when compared to the perhaps traditional, though outdated, role of ‘money provider’ that so many of us undertake through either an automatic sense of duty, or through some real, natural drive. Whatever, my view is that simply working hard and sending the cash home isn’t enough. It’s not enough for the people around you, it’s not enough for you, either.

Please, do not read this as a sermon from a father of the year candidate – God no. Mrs F will, I imagine, spit her herbal tea all over her pashmina as she reads this stuff. I am a long way away from being a proper bloke, truth be told. Too often I put my carnivorous desires or my need to sweat in a gym full of other grunting apes first. But I’m learning. I’m learning that real men can be gentle, and selfless. A real man must be driven and ambitious, of course, but he must also encourage those traits in others, knowing that he can’t do it all. After all, there are chores to do at home. And with that, I’m off to mow the lawn (I market this as a job I undertake for the good of the family – nobody is buying it).

Man up, guys.

I’VE ALWAYS LIFTED HEAVY WEIGHTS IN GYMS, GRUNTING ALL THE WHILE

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

Digital artist Tim Daddio’s work is known for its 1950s edge

I’m inspired by cinema and pin-up. My work is nostalgic and familiar with a contemporary twist

wise guys From a Bath Rugby player and a musician who’s supported Ronnie Wood and The Stone Roses, to a culinary master who’s worked alongside some of the world’s best chefs, and a London Fashion Week hairdresser, these are the talented, cool, and remarkable Bath gents inspiring us right now…

By L I SA E VA NS

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

B AT H CHAPS THE DIGITAL ILLUSTRATOR

Do you think Bath is a good city for men?

It’s a stylish city for men; the culture is really interesting and the sport atmosphere is great.

TIM DADDIO

Influenced by the 1950s, he uses digital technology to create his works Tell us about your artistic beginnings…

I studied at Bath Spa University and have since had my artwork on The Bath Fringe programme and The Naked Guide to Bath.

THE COFFEE CONNOISSEUR

SAM MACCUAIG

Previously at Bath’s Hunter & Sons, Sam now owns Second Sip Tell us a little about what you do...

I’ve launched my food and drink business, Second Sip, with my business partner. We organise pop-ups, run catering, and do wine and beer pairings. I also run the South West distribution for Union Hand Roasted Coffee.

Describe your work…

I’m inspired by cinema and pin-up. My work is a modern take on classic imagery – nostalgic and familiar with a contemporary twist.

What are your mediums?

Inspired by Rear Window, I’ve created elaborate photo montages of Bath buildings.

I photographed models behind a life-sized Georgian window that I’d built out of cardboard, which I then blended into a composite shot, of, say, The Circus. I also use a digital airbrush technique that is the embodiment of the kind of ‘50s glossy American iconography I’m influenced by.

Is Bath a good city for men?

It offers so much. You can find me eating at Aió or drinking at the Garrick’s Head.

THE SPORTSMAN

LEROY HOUSTON

What’s your background?

I started at Costa, went on to London’s Drink, Shop & Do and then became a barista at Bath’s Society Café, and then at Hunter & Sons.

What surprises can coffee offer?

It’s not unusual to find coffees that taste of blackcurrants, lavender, strawberries or chocolate.

Above, top: Sam MacCuaig of coffee company Second Sip; above: Bath Rugby’s Leroy Houston is back in the game; below: Room in a Wild Hotel artwork by Bath’s Tim Daddio

What makes for an interesting accompaniment to coffee?

It’s a case of the specific coffee. A perfect example of this is Amsterdam’s Scandinavian Embassy which pairs up all sorts, such as a smoked oyster served with a chilled Kenyan. w

Even though it’s only for a short-term re-signing, he’s back at Bath Rugby How does it feel to be back at Bath Rugby?

With the support system here at Farleigh House and the fantastic supporters Bath has, I feel like I never left.

What are the best bits about returning?

The top-level rugby. I’m equally very happy to be back playing with some top blokes.

Share a great career moment…

Winning a Super Rugby title with the Queensland Reds before coming to Europe was something special. More recently, I was overwhelmed with the reception I had against Worcester for my first game back at Bath.

What are your ambitions?

I left Bath Rugby last year to sign a Super Rugby contract because I have a long-term ambition to get in the Wallabies squad.

What are your thoughts on the sport scene in Bath?

Bath’s a really special place, the city lives for rugby. That’s what encourages the boys to give their all every match day. The Rec’s a beautiful stadium, I don’t think there’s any other ground like it.

Where would we find you on your day off?

In a coffee shop or in Nando’s with Matt Banahan. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 37

B AT H CHAPS What are the best things about being a modern man in Bath?

There’s a real love for go-getters here, with a lot of small businesses and a huge support from the community.

THE MULTI-TASKERS

STU JOLLEY AND SIMON MAUDSLEY

They are the founder (Stu) and director (Simon) of Bath-based male grooming brand Wingman – which specialises in multi-use products What’s the story of Wingman’s beginnings?

Stu: The lightbulb moment came on a surf trip in France. Rifling through my bag, I was struck by the lack of male grooming products that aligned with my lifestyle. Wingman was born out of this frustration and I set out to create an authentic brand that serves the needs of the modern man.

Is Bath a city suited to men?

Stu: Yes, it’s great; there’s decent food and good coffee shops and bars.

Simon: I’m a rugby man and this city just lives and breathes the sport.

Above: Wingman’s Stu and Simon take a well-earned break; below: ‘Bob’ Kann and his contemporary architectural artworks

Where would we find you on a day off?

Stu: I’m involved with local touch rugby, a great way to escape working 24 hours a day.

Simon: Probably at CrossFit Bath where I do my best impressions of working out.

Who are the most inspiring people you’ve met?

Stu: Richard Branson, he went on to mention Wingman at a press conference later that day.

THE ARCHITECT

ROBERT JOSEPH KANN

He’s just launched his first gallery, Pitch26, on Church Street, Bath What inspired your love for art?

Seeing Phil Nibbelink (the Disney artist) drawing live when I was five, hooked me onto art. I created artwork throughout the nine-year process to becoming a qualified architect.

And you’ve recently set up your first gallery…

Yes, in a beautiful city like Bath I thought contemporary architectural artwork would be an interesting way to portray our city’s streetscapes.

What’s new with you?

Simon: We are launching another health and beauty brand in 2017, which is top secret at the moment.

What’s your favourite building in the city?

Ralph Allen’s Townhouse – a hidden gem.

What do you think of the arts scene here?

There is an amazing wealth of talent. It’s strange that for such an old city there’s this huge undercurrent of modern creativity.

IT’S STRANGE THAT FOR SUCH AN OLD CITY THERE’S THIS HUGE UNDERCURRENT OF MODERN CREATIVITY 38 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO BY IMAGIANATION PRINTS

Where in Bath would we find you when you’re not in the studio?

Drinking at The Bath Brew House, shopping at Grace & Ted or having my mind blown by Paul’s amazing magic skills at Sleight Bar Bath.

How do you rate Bath as a city for men?

The women are beautiful, there’s a pub every two metres and you can have a proper Turkish shave.

THE HAIR GURU

ZAC FENNELL

Director of Artizan Bartlett Street Let us in on your past…

I’ve been a hairdresser for 18 years and I also work for Aveda. I’ve worked on some great projects such as styling at London Fashion Week and the Baftas. w

B AT H CHAPS What can diners expect from you at The Chequers?

I’ll celebrate the changing seasons and showcase the South West’s best produce. Expect fresh, exciting flavours, literally giving diners food for thought.

What are your ambitions?

I’d love to bring a Michelin star to The Chequers.

How do you spend your days off?

It’s all about my family. We go to Bath City Farm, or the amazing parks in Bath. I’m also learning to play the ukulele and I’m pretty good on a snowboard.

What’s your favourite thing about Bath?

The rugby is very special to me; it brings a unique energy to the city.

THE BOOK BUFF

SABER KHAN

Manager at Bath’s Topping & Company Booksellers on The Paragon How did you get into the world of books?

I worked for WHSmith, Waterstones and a London independent bookseller before I came to Bath to help open the Bath branch of Topping.

What was your latest show?

I led a team for Sabinna’s London Spring/Summer 2017 collection, which was featured in Vogue.

Have you worked with high-profile clients?

I styled hair for Olympic Team GB, for Lily Allen’s new clothing line, and for Bath and England rugby players.

How do you spend a day off?

I like eating cake at Café Lucca and sipping on espresso martinis in Sub 13. When it comes to shopping, Mo in Gaff is amazing, he’ll put you in something you won’t find anywhere else.

How would you rate Bath as a city for men?

It’s got all I need. I love Bath Rugby, the restaurants and the cycle routes and gyms. Blue on Bartlett Street has a new men’s section which I love, too.

THE FOOD WHIZZ

RUPERT TAYLOR

Formerly at Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck, Rupert’s the new head chef at The Chequers, Bath What’s your background?

I trained under Gary Jones (Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons) which took me to The Royal Crescent Hotel, Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck, and Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen. I was also in charge of five fine dining restaurants aboard a cruise ship and ran my pub called the Swan in Swineford.

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

Above: Sam of Wolf Wine likes to break old fashioned stereotypes; below: Artizan’s Zac Fennell at London Fashion Week; Topping’s Saber Khan

How long ago was that?

I’m one of two original Bath team members from over nine years ago. We have three branches – Ely, St Andrews and Bath. Each bookshop is run individually to reflect the tastes of the cities.

Share some highlights of Topping’s Bath Autumn Book Festival...

Buzz Aldrin came recently, and we have another astronaut coming on 28 October – Mike Massimino.

I’m looking forward to meeting Mark Frost on 18 November – he co-created Twin Peaks.

Best career moment?

I spent 16 hours with author George R. R. Martin just before Game of Thrones came out.

How do you rate Bath as a place for men?

It’s a good city for men and women – there’s a lot on culturally. I’d perhaps like there to be more scope for live music.

THE MUSICIAN

MARTIN BADDER

The music producer and DJ has supported the likes of The Stone Roses and Ronnie Wood We hear you lead a double life?

I’m a private investment manager but I also produce dance music, I dj and I play keyboard in my band and for other artists.

Share some musical highlights…

I’ve supported The Stone Roses and Ronnie Wood (Mick Jagger turned up that night and jumped on stage) and played piano in Vienna with Midge Ure.

B AT H CHAPS I’ve also performed at Glastonbury, The Isle of Wight Festival and Womad.

What’s your background?

I signed my first major record deal with London Records and a publishing deal with EMI when I was a teenager. My bands include Countermine, Elektralux and Swingers.

What are your ambitions?

I’ll be launching my own record label and I’m also developing a clothing brand with CrossFit athlete Alec Harwood.

Do you think Bath is a good city for men?

It’s a shame a lot of the independent men’s clothes shops have gone. However, The Kooples and Magpie & Bear always come up trumps. I’ve just found a new barber in The Corridor called Moda.

They use fire to trim your hair.

I’VE SUPPORTED THE STONE ROSES AND RONNIE WOOD AND PLAYED PIANO IN VIENNA WITH MIDGE URE Below: Jim Campbell co-founder independent chocolate makers, Hasslacher’s; Bath’s Martin Badder performing at Womad festival

SAMUEL JAMES SHAW

Founder of Wolf Wine in Green Park Station Where does your love of wine stem from?

We used to have Italian family gatherings at my grandparents’ house. They got us on the watereddown wine from an early age. It’s a strong memory because of the way it brought everyone together.

JAMES MORTIMER

From his home studio on The Circus, the Kenneth Armitage Prize-winner’s creations have been chosen

by Jethro Tull frontman Ian Anderson, and The Ivy How would you describe your artistic style?

All art is sexual. I usually paint figures in the nude, but nudity isn’t necessarily salacious. Art should aim to tweak people’s noses.

We hear you have an artistic lineage…

The well-known artist in the family is the neoclassical, 18th century painter John Hamilton Mortimer.

What have been your finest moments so far?

Ian Anderson visited my studio a couple of months ago after seeing my stuff in The Jackdaw. He later acquired my Crocodile Landscape painting. w

PHOTO BY WWW.TOMSMITHPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

Tell us about Wolf Wine...

The dream was to have a wine shop that broke old fashioned stereotypes and stocked new and exciting wines that were natural and small-production.

What do you think about the bar scene in Bath?

I favour Circo, Hunter & Sons, and The Dark Horse.

There are also some really interesting brewers locally such as Albion Brewing Company and Kettlesmith Brewing.

How do you spend your free time?

Having an 18-month-old daughter, you’ll probably find me in child-friendly places such as Boston Tea Party. I also love the Little Theatre Cinema and shopping at Kitchens Cookshop, HAY and Found.

THE SCULPTOR

THE CRAFT WINE SPECIALIST

What’s in the pipeline?

We don’t make wine yet, but there may be a few collaborations coming up. And maybe we’ll get a vineyard later down the line. The next step is establishing our events and tastings at the shop.

How do you find working as a husband-andwife duo?

We set up in business so that Anna and I could pool our talents. We already had the workshop equipment from my other business – in particular the laser cutter – and we wanted to use it for more creative purposes and Speckled Wood was born.

Is Bath a good city for men?

With great places for beer, brunch and wine, there’s not much else a man needs. On the fashion side of things, I love Zucci and Loake.

THE MODEL-MAKER

MATT REES

He runs Claverton-based businesses 3DCreate and Speckled Wood What do you specialise in?

I divide my time between being a model-maker for architecture, production and theatre design for my company 3DCreate, and running Speckled Wood with my wife, Anna, making artwork, decorations and jewellery. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 41

B AT H CHAPS

THE FASHION AFICIONADO

JAMES HUGHES

Head of business at Loake Shoemakers, Green Street What does fashion mean to you?

It’s all about ensuring the gentlemen of Bath are provided with a fantastic selection of handmade English shoes and a place to unwind and chew the fat with a beer in hand.

What’s the characteristic Bath ‘look’?

Tweed, chinos and loafers is an undeniable Bath classic. Along with the growing hipster scene supported by the increasing number of students, the male fashion scene in the city has become more diverse.

What’s new with the business?

We’ve just had our first birthday in the city and were pleased to announce our continued partnership with Bath Rugby as their official footwear supplier.

PHOTO BY JESSIE MYERS

What do you think of the dress sense among Bath’s gents?

It’s a work in progress; there are some fantastic places for men to add to their wardrobe, such as Grace & Ted with their new menswear department.

Outside of work, what are your hobbies?

I’m a bit of plane geek and would love to achieve my private pilot’s licence.

NUDITY ISN’T NECESSARILY SALACIOUS. ART SHOULD AIM TO TWEAK PEOPLE’S NOSES

THE CHOCOLATE CONNOISSEUR

What happened when you appeared on the TV show Dragons’ Den? It was a fantastic experience; Hasslacher’s got 15 minutes of fame and sales went up by 1,000 per cent.

Co-founder of independent chocolate company Hasslacher’s, the headquarters of which are on Gay Street, Bath

GERARD COLES

Above: artist James Mortimer at his home-studio in The Circus; below: James Hughes of Loake; Gerard Coles of Honey’s Midford Cider

JIM CAMPBELL

Where can we find your products?

We have a hot chocolate trike that pops up on Milsom Street from autumn onwards. Our products are also sold in the likes of Waitrose, Marks & Spencer, Made by Ben and Harvest.

Why does the chocolate tradition in Regency Bath influence Hasslacher’s?

There was a period up until 1750 when chocolate was all the rage and Bath was one of the epicentres of consumption with its wealthy visitors. We are bridging the gap between a tradition in the UK that goes back to Georgian Britain and one that’s alive and well today.

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

Partner at Honey’s Midford Cider in Midford, Bath How did you first get involved with Honey’s Midford?

I’m married to a farmer’s daughter whose father bought a 200-year-old cider press and planted a few apple trees. It’s still a family business which makes cider purely from apples, milled and pressed on the farm.

PHOTO BY PORTRAIT COLLECTIVE/AARON PARSONS PHOTOGRAPHY

Tell us about your business…

I founded Hasslacher’s in 2011 with Simon Hasslacher and Reuben Maltby. The idea came when I was drinking ‘solid’ hot chocolate in Colombia. The flavour was superior to anything available on the UK market. We approached one of the largest chocolate producers in South America with the idea of contract packing in the UK, and we became their largest European customer.

THE ACCIDENTAL CIDER MAKER

What do you make of the drinks scene in Bath?

It’s vibrant with a lot of like-minded local producers making waves in the national and international markets.

Where would we find you on a day off?

I’m split between being part of the community team reviving the Packhorse Pub (we’ve just raised enough money to buy it) and setting up a new neighbourhood-focused craft pizza, beer and cider bar on Moorland road with a couple of friends, including Chris Lewis of Electric Bear Brewery.

What are your favourite shops in the city?

I can always find something I need in the specialist alcohol store, Independent Spirit.

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

a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e s t y l e

Tailored to you Ben and Mehmet Aydin established City Tailors in Bath six years ago and are now the tailors of choice across Bristol and Bath

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ocated in the heart of the city, City Tailors provides a range of quality bespoke tailoring, clothing alteration and re-styling services for both men and women. So, whether it is shortening a pair of trousers, creating a customised garment for you, altering a skirt or a wedding dress, we can do all. Our reputation is built on our professionalism, dedication,

attention to detail and true passion for craft. You can expect the highest quality of workmanship and timely service at a reasonable price here.

Using only the finest materials, all our bespoke tailoring and alteration is carried out in-house by our own skilled, highly experienced tailors and dressmakers. Casual or formal, contemporary fashion or classic cut, whatever suits your need, you can be assured of great results when selecting City Tailors. We also pride ourselves on providing good and practical advice for your tailoring needs.

Owners Ben and Mehmet Aydin

Special Occasions

Whether you're planning to go out for some fine dining, attend a formal occasion or a wedding party, or even want to get married yourself, all you'll need is a special outfit. We can design and create that special outfit for you with unique details reflecting your personality and the event.

For all your tailoring needs, pop in or request an appointment to meet with us and we will take care of your sartorial expectations.

25 Milsom Street, Bath BA1 1DG 01225 920263; info@citytailors.co.uk www.citytailors.co.uk

Music/theatre/film/more

SILVER SERVICE The Holburne Museum’s Silver: Light and Shade exhibition brings together historic and contemporary silver masterpieces to tell a new story about the texture, form and colour of this precious metal, such as Aqua-Poesy VII by Hiroshi Suzuki (2003), borrowed from The Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths collection.

This vase, which is part of a series, is hammer-raised in fine silver from a flat sheet of metal, using waves of undulating curves on the surface, which catch the light and simulate movement. Suzuki usually works in Britannia silver, which contains virtually no copper and therefore has very little strength and would be unable to withstand daily wear and tear.

In other words, you wouldn’t be chucking your daffs in this.

Silver: Light and Shade exhibition can be seen at The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath from 22 October – 22 January 2017; www.holburne.org

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 47

15 October - 12 November

Joe Fox, a former busker and talent on the rise who features heavily on A$AP Rocky’s new album performs at Komedia on 26 October; Catherine Twomey’s You’re Actin’ Crazy! can be seen as part of the Sci-Art Synergy exhibition at Heart of The RUH; Catch ragtime funsters The FB Pocket Orchestra at the Igloo on 20 October

Exhibitions U N TI L 1 9 O C T O B ER

SANDRA PORTER: SYMBIOSIS A striking exhibition of prints, drawings, collages and paintings, celebrating the artist’s investigations into exploring the symbiotic relationship of stripes, grids and intersecting graphic patterns. The Gallery at Dauntsey’s; www.dauntseys.org U N TI L 2 9 O C T O B ER

MALCOLM ASHMAN AND INGER KARTHUM This beautiful collaboration between British painter Malcolm Ashman and Norwegian digital printmaker Inger Karthum presents notions of memory melded with shared experience.

Bath Contemporary; www.bathcontemporary.com

U N TI L 2 9 OCTO BER

AUTUMN GLORY A collection of Nick Cudworth’s paintings and prints reflecting his fascination in the seasonal changing light and colours of the countryside foliage. The Nick Cudworth Gallery; www.nickcudworth.co.uk

paints with an immediate and direct approach, creating a rich tapestry of colour and luminosity of light. This exhibition features her latest paintings of still life subjects and landscapes of the Scottish Inner Hebrides. David Simon Contemporary; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com

U N TI L 3 1 OCTO BER

UNTIL 27 NO VEMBER

designed an extraordinary project to redevelop the city of Bath. His incredible never-built designs, which included an amphitheatre, and a concert hall, are explored in this exhibition. Museum of Bath Architecture; www. museumofbatharchitecture.org.uk UNTIL 11 DECEM B ER

MOMENTS IN TIME Capturing character, humour and life, Sara Ingleby-MacKenzie’s bronze sculptures, some of which are patinated in striking colours, portray the female figure in everyday activities. David Simon Contemporary; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com

KENNETH ARMITAGE This major, retrospective exhibition features over 65 sculptures in bronze and plaster together with paintings and drawings from all phases of Armitage’s career. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk UNTIL 27 NO VEMBER

U N TI L 3 1 OCTO BER

STUDIO TO SHORE Working with raw pigment mixed with oil onto canvas, Jackie Philip

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

PLANNING FOR PEACE While Great Britain was in the middle of the First World War, architect Robert Atkinson

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. No. 1 Royal Crescent; www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk

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ARTS

1 9 OCTOBE R – 20 NO VEMBER UNTI L 1 2 F E B RUA RY 2 0 1 7

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

UNTI L 1 2 M ARC H 2 0 1 7

DRAWN TO THE LAND This ongoing and exploratory project by award-winning documentary photographer, Sophie Gerrard takes an intimate look at the contemporary Scottish landscape, through a series of fascinating photographs of female farmers. Fox Talbot Museum, Lacock Abbey; www.nationaltrust.org.uk UNTI L 1 J ANUARY 2 0 1 9

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.

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

FALL A carefully curated collection of mixed media work to usher in the autumn including Patricia Volk’s sculpture, jewellery from Holly Belsher, clothing by Carole Waller and ceramics by Gary Wood.

One Two Five Gallery; www.onetwofivegallery.co.uk 2 1 OCTOBE R - 19 NO VEMBER

BLACK SWAN ARTS OPEN The 14th Black Swan Arts Open in Frome promises to showcase a wealth of local talent from established and emerging artists.

The shortlisted works, which will be displayed in the main gallery, have the chance of winning a series of impressive prizes. Black Swan Arts; www.blackswan.org.uk.org 2 1 OCTOBE R – 1 2 JA N UA RY 2017

SCI-ART SYNERGY When art meets science the results can astound as this exhibition proves. Scientists are using art to show their work in a new light and these exciting collaborations include visual interpretations of quantum dynamics, nanotechnology, genetics, the cosmos and the diseases of old age.

Art at the Heart of the RUH; www.artatruh.org 2 2 OCTOBE R – 2 2 JA N UA RY 2017

SILVER: LIGHT AND SHADE This exhibition brings together historic and contemporary silver masterpieces to tell a new story about the texture, form and colour of this extraordinary and precious metal. For more see page 47. The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org 2 9 OCTOBE R – 9 NO VEMBER

1 5 O C TO B E R – 14 N OV E MBE R

POP! Rostra Gallery’s new exhibition brings a burst of colour to the autumn months with a nod to one of the most exciting art movements that emerged in the 1950s. POP! will showcase new and archive works by artists that were instrumental during the 1950s Pop Art period, as well as artists working today that have been inspired by the groundbreaking work from this time. Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk

Top to bottom: View Gary Wood’s painted stoneware Bridge at One Two Five Gallery; Passing through by Kay Lewis-Bell is part of Black Swan Arts Open

BATH ARTIST PRINTMAKERS A vibrant and diverse exhibition of work produced by members of Bath Artist Printmakers, with etchings, aquatints, linocuts, monoprints and collagraphs, displayed together with the tools, materials and methods used. BRLSI; www.brlsi.org

greatest photographer. Sebastião Salgado is a social documentary photojournalist and has recently completed Genesis, a profound and ambitious eight-year-project, which is being seen as a visual tribute to our fragile planet. Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution; www.brlsi.org

1 1 – 1 9 N OV EMBER

Plays/Shows

SEBASTIÃO SALGADO Local collective PhotoBath have been working with the BRLSI to create this unique opportunity to see a selection of black and white images from one of the world’s

UNTIL 22 O C TO BER

STEPPING OUT Amanda Holden heads one of the starriest casts ever to have

stepped out on the Theatre Royal’s stage, and includes Angela Griffin, Tracy-Ann Oberman, Tamzin Outhwaite and Nicola Stephenson. This heart-warming comedy charts the lives of seven women and one man, each attempting to tap dance their troubles away at a weekly dancing class £40-£29. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk UNTIL 5 NO V EM B ER

HALF LIFE Patrick was once a mathematician and codebreaker. Clara is a beautiful innocent with a fading w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 49

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memory. Will their adult children be able to come to terms with their own feelings as the romance between their ageing parents, in a nursing home, blossoms? £19.50.

Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 21 – 2 2 O C TO B E R

THE CIRCUS OF HORRORS This ‘Never-ending Nightmare’ spectacular features an amazing amalgamation of bizarre, brave and beautiful acts all woven into an Alice in Horrorland-type story, performed with a forked tongue firmly in each cheek. £20.

Wookey Hole; www.wookey.co.uk 25 & 2 6 O C TO B E R

LITTLE FRANKENSTEIN In a story inspired by Mary Shelley’s gothic novel, puppeteer Frank Stein creates a trusting and happy puppet that will change his life forever. Running as part of the Horror Season at the egg, with a packed programme of activities including a Halloween Theatre Sleepover and Scream Screen. For more information and prices, please visit www.theatreroyal.org.uk

from the prog rock pioneers’ 1973 album Selling England by the Pound.

Original and replica costumes, props and lighting bring Genesis’s eccentric performances back to life again with giant sunflowers, bat wings, gladiators and double necked guitars. 7pm, £32.50. The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk 28 O C TO B ER

26 O C T O B E R

JET SET GO! A delightfully inventive, witty and slightly bitchy musical about cabin crew and pilots – there’s the new air hostess finding her feet, the fiery stewardess flying high on love and arrogant co-pilots. 7.30pm, £10. The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk 29 O C T O B E R

THE NEXT STEP WILD RHYTHM TOUR (STEP 2) The Next Step is a hugely popular Canadian teen TV show and they’re bringing their sell-out tour with incredible, hi-energy dances to the Bath stage. 6pm, prices from £28.50. Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk 1 NOVEMBER

INSTRUCTIONS FOR AMERICAN SERVICEMEN IN BRITAIN The Americans see the Brits as a strange race. Get ready to judge for yourself in a night of joyous laughter as a crack team of experts – The Real MacGuffins & Fol Espoir – attempt to explain the rules of British life, featuring everything from cricket, warm beer and ha’pennies to Sunday afternoons in the country. 7.15pm,

Wookey Hole is the spooky setting for the spectacular Circus of Horrors show; Instructions for American Servicemen in Britain is on at Widcombe Social Club

£12. Widombe Social Club; www.widcombesocialclub.co.uk 6 N OV E MBE R

JASON BYRNE IS PROPPED UP Jason is bringing his warmth and generous stagecraft to town, with ridiculously silly props including giant ducks, rubber hands, owls, big wooden pegs and amazing magic stunts. 6.30pm, £17.50.

Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

Music 2 0 OCTOBE R

THE SMYTHS After a successful 11 years and over 500 shows, this acclaimed band are seasoned performers who redefine the word ‘tribute’ and instead present the music with love, passion and dedication to honour and respect the original band, The Smiths.

7pm, £12. Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

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

20 O C TO BER

THE FB POCKET ORCHESTRA Blues, ragtime, hot jazz, songs and dances from long ago; working backwards from the 1930s, the FB Pocket Orchestra explores a repertoire that formed the embryo of what is now known as popular music. 7pm, free. Igloo; www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk 26 O C TO BER

JOE FOX Joe Fox is a mysterious singer/ songwriter, managing to keep a surprisingly low profile, but we do know the former busker appears on A$AP Rocky’s new album a staggeringly impressive five times. And that’s good enough for us. 9pm, £3. Komedia, www.komedia.co.uk

BATH PHILHARMONIA The mighty Klais Organ of Bath Abbey is about to go under wraps for several years as part of the Abbey Footprint Project, but before that happens, organ soloist Shean Bowers is joining Bath Phil to perform a series of atmospheric, virtuoso and powerful pieces. 7pm; £25-£15.

Bath Abbey; www.bathabbey.org 29 O C TO B ER

VENETIAN VESPERS A re-creation of Vespers, with music by Monteverdi, his contemporaries, and authentic strings, sackbuts and continuo with the Bath Bach Choir. 7.30pm, £15/£10. Prior Park Chapel; www.bathbachchoir.org.uk 9 NO VEM B ER

THE ZOMBIES Since topping the US charts in 1964 with their debut single, the timeless She’s Not There, The Zombies are still giving audiences what they want after five decades.

6.30pm, £22.50. Komedia, www.komedia.co.uk

28 O C TO BER

THE MUSICAL BOX Licensed and supported by Genesis and Peter Gabriel, The Musical Box recreate the legendary show featuring music

11 – 19 NO V EM B ER

BATH MOZART FEST Over the past 26 years Bath Mozartfest has built an enviable reputation for artistic excellence w

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in chamber and orchestral music. In its annual nine-day, 16-concert, festival it presents the finest classical music performed by world-renowned artists. For information on all concerts, venues and prices, please visit www.bathmozartfest.org.uk

Family fun 22 O C T O B E R

BATH GEEK FEST As we all know, geek is the new chic and this is a fine celebration of all things geeky in the An American Toy Story exhibition.

There are special guests, stalls, talks, and lots more from the world of comics, TV, films, games, YouTube, and toys. 11am-5pm.

Price included with gardens admission. American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org 22 – 3 0 O C TO B E R

MUSEUMS WEEK This October half-term, visitors to Bath’s museums can enjoy events for all ages and interests, including making a Roman bookmark at the Roman Baths, an outdoor fossil hunt at Radstock Museum and free tastings at Sally Lunn’s Buns.

For more information visit www.bathmuseumsweek.co.uk 24 – 2 8 O C TO B E R

ANIMAL ART TRAIL Part of a whole series of drop-in activities by Victoria Art Gallery for children and includes Trolltastic, Magnificent Masks and Plasticine Pets. The Animal Art Trail invites participants to find the animals hiding in the gallery. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Little Frankenstein is a new twist on the old favourite tale of man makes puppet / man makes monster and is part of the Horror Season special the Theatre Royal Bath are running to celebrate Halloween

Scrapstore for an array of creepy crafts. Fancy dress welcome.

Drop-in, booking not necessary, recommended age 3+. 1pm-4pm, price included with gardens only admission. American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org 2 9 OCTOBE R

THE GINGERBREAD MAN A pair of bakers get a shock when their delicious gingerbread man jumps off the baking tray and runs off down the road. Who will get their hands, paws or claws on him first? 11am & 1pm, £10/£6, The Edge, University of Bath; www.edgearts.org

Other 1 8 OCTOBE R

25 O C T O B E R

FALCONRY DEMONSTRATION Ray Prior is one of the leading falconers in the country, with a wide selection of beautiful birds.

This is a wonderful chance to see his owls, eagles, hawks, and falcons swoop over the museum grounds. 12.30pm & 2.30pm, price included with gardens admission. American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org 27 O C T O B E R

HAPPY HALLOWEEN! What better place to celebrate Halloween than at the American Museum? Join Wiltshire

MARCUS SEDGWICK Ponder the power and beauty of snow with writer Marcus Sedgwick and his latest book Snow. There’s also music from The Bookshop Band and a buffet-style dinner with wine included. 7pm, £14. Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights; www.mrbsemporium.com 1 9 OCTOBE R

SIR TONY ROBINSON The Blackadder actor, TimeTeam presenter and author will sign copies of his autobiography No Cunning Plan, which charts his stellar 50-years-and-counting career. 12.30pm, £20 for book and voucher which admits two people.

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

Topping & Company Booksellers; www.toppingbooks.co.uk 19 O C TO BER

TRACEY THORN The Everything But The Girl singer and songwriter, and reluctant popstar, joins Nic Bottomley, owner of Mr B’s and Bath Life columnist, to share stories from her witty new book, Naked in the Albert Hall: The Inside Story of Singing. 7pm, £9.

Wiltshire Music Centre; www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk 21 O C TO BER

RUH BIG BAKE SALE Channel 4’s The Fabulous Baker Brothers, Tom and Henry are on board as Official Ambassadors for Ted’s Big Bake Off and visiting the RUH to officially open the RUH Big Bake Sale, which marks the close of the fundraising week across the area. For more information, please visit www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk

27 O C TO B ER

BABIES Pop Up Docs is a touring cinema in Bath bringing documentaries to new audiences in unusual places.

Babies, being shown in the New Oriel Hall in Larkhall, documents the first two years of four children living in Namibia, Mongolia, San Francisco and Tokyo. New Oriel Hall, Brookleaze Buildings, Larkhall. 11am & 2.30pm, £7.50. www.popupdocs.com 1 NO VEM B ER

CREATIVE BATH: BUSINESS BREAKFAST The Creative Bath Business Breakfasts provide an important forum for senior-level discussion about current opportunities and challenges in the creative sector. Along with the monthly opportunity for networking, there are round table discussions.

8am-10am, £10. Igloo, The Abbey Hotel; www.creativebath.org 3 – 13 NO V EM B ER

26 & 27 O C TO BER

AMERICAN GHOST TOURS Visit the museum’s evocative Period Rooms for a sinister and chilling journey through some of the darkest chapters of American history, starting in colonial Massachusetts at the height of the Salem witch trials. Not suitable for children. 6.30pm, £15. American Musuem; www.americanmuseum.org

BATH FILM FESTIVAL The festival has renewed its fast-spreading championship of women in film by including even more F-Rated screenings in this 11-day programme of new-to-view and classic features, documentaries and shorts that will be screened all over the city, including at the Odeon multiplex, Komedia and Chapel Arts.

For more information visit www.bathfilmfestival.org.uk

ABOVE AND BEYOND An exhibition commemorating Corsham’s Red Cross Hospital and how the town took it to their hearts

CORSHAM TOWN HALL 22-30 October 2016 9.30am-4.30pm

FREE ENTRY

Plus - Music, drama, family history workshops, ‘Knitting for the Troops’, a unique installation by local yarn-bombing artist Emma Leith featuring poppies both in the Town Hall and through the town centre, and lots more.

VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR FULL DETAILS OF THE PROGRAMME OF EVENTS In support of:

www.corsham.gov.uk towncouncil@corsham.gov.uk 01249 702130

nick cudworth gallery Auctioneers of Fine Art & Chattels Phoenix House, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 9ES Tel: 01225 462830 Fax: 01225 446077

SOLD FOR ÂŁ23,000 An early Islamic silver vase, 11" high.

Next Specialist Antiques Auction: Tuesday 29 November 2016 We are now accepting suitable entries of Silver, Jewellery, Ceramics & Glass, Paintings, Works-of-Art, Clocks and Antique Furniture for this and all future sales.

For further information, please contact us on: 01225 462830 www.aldridgesofbath.com

Westonbirt Arboretum

AUTUMN GLORY 1 – 29 October

A variety of paintings and prints of Autumn foliage featuring paintings set in Henrietta Park and Westonbirt Arboretum.

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

Pot luck Working purely in porcelain, Elisabeth Barry creates handmade tableware and jewellery from her eponymous studio in Claverton. Lisa Evans was invited to her ceramics workshop to try her hand at ‘throwing’…

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pparently it’s a brilliant effort for my first attempt, or perhaps that’s just Elisabeth Barry using her comforting and encouraging words to make me feel better about the claggy, wonky mess of a pot I’ve just made.

This is my first ever attempt at ‘throwing’ – the process of pottery-making on a spinning wheel – at a workshop run by Elisabeth Barry. Ahead of visiting the Claverton studio, I was enthusiastic, but not prepared for how maddeningly addictive I’d find it. There’s a curious, meditative calm in getting your hands on a pound of cold porcelain, smacking into shape, sluicing it with water and slipping your fingers around it as it turns.

We’re taught how to create the perfect cylinder which rises like a tower between cupped, forceful palms, and how to, with two fingers, make a well in the centre and smooth out the inside while drawing the walls up to form a neat vessel. But the best thing about all this is that Elisabeth doesn’t make the class a serious affair; we’re all a little giggly because of the obvious innuendos, and she doesn’t ignore them either, she even laughs at our Ghost references, which she’s likely to have heard a hundred times. It’s fun, although slightly 56 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

frustrating watching her make faultless formations in seconds without so much as looking at what she’s doing.

“There’s a bit of a wobble on that one,” she says with sympathetic eyes.

A ‘wobble’ in pottery is the equivalent of Bake Off’s feared ‘soggy bottom’, but she shows me how to counteract it and gives it a graceful squeeze here, a trim with a scalpel there, turning something lumpen into a thing of beauty as I pedal the wheel and sit proudly, pretending I’m doing all the work.

For an untidy-at-heart person (with a neat freak partner who tells me off ) it’s rather liberating to make a great muddy mess and come home with powdery streaks up to my elbows and clay matted through my hair.

Enough about my experience, though, meet Elisabeth…

What led you down the creative path?

Learning to throw pots was a long-held ambition. I went to classes where I was enchanted by the process. I particularly loved porcelain as a medium, with its rich creaminess when soft, and its smooth, white surface when fired. I was accepted onto a ceramics diploma course at London’s City Lit college, where I had opportunities to find my style.

I often feel like Professor Snape, but I don’t have a dungeon yet

MEET THE MAKER

There’s evidence of creativity wherever you look in Elisabeth’s pottery studio

And how would you describe your style at the moment?

Simple, sculptural, quiet, smooth and tactile.

I aim for pieces to be unique, not uniform. I’m struck by how often people find a particular piece that speaks to them.

Are you a bit of a perfectionist?

It’s important in ceramics to appreciate the imperfections. In fact, in Japanese ceramics, the philosophy of Wabi-Sabi means ‘worship the flaw’. In life, I think I am drawn to things that are a bit quirky, wonky or unappreciated.

Talk us through the creations you make…

My signature pieces, I suppose, are the churns.

They are like little vases in the shape of milk bottles and ink wells. I love seeing each one emerge from the spinning lump of clay and ending up with its own personality – tall and elegant, short and squat, textured or smooth.

I purposefully don’t make two the same. I love that people are choosing something unique that no one else will own.

Tell us about the workshops you run…

I mainly do lessons for individuals or pairs, but occasionally I run events for teams of up to five people. The lessons last up to three hours – long enough for someone to make a few pots.

I then finish and fire the pots so they can be taken home.

And you make jewellery too?

Yes, my necklaces feature one or more ceramic circles, which begin life as pot thrown on the wheel. When the pot has hardened slightly, I use a scalpel tool to slice a ring off the pot as it spins. I fire it, diamond-polish each circle and then glaze part of it to create the design. The circles are hung on silver chains, coloured silk cords or leather.

What is your process?

To make a finished piece takes several days in total. In the workshop I’ll have some pieces which are drying, others going into or coming out of the kiln for their first firing and some waiting to be glazed or polished. I part-glaze many of the pieces in blue, green, grey or black and I have a recipe for each which involves mixing together elements like Cornish stone, bentonite and copper carbonate. I often feel like Harry Potter’s Professor Snape, but I don’t have a dungeon yet.

Why did you choose to settle your workshop in Bath?

I moved to Bath when I met my husband three years ago. He’s everything to me; I call him the wind beneath my wheel. After a chance conversation at the Bath Artisan Market with Matt and Anna from Speckled Wood, they told me about a space that was available next to them at Manor Farm in Claverton.

Where can people find your products?

I hold open studio sale events throughout the year, the next one will be in time for Christmas.

I also sell on my website and I’m usually at The Frome Independent, a market on the first Sunday of each month. I do a few bigger shows throughout the year which is how I met my great friends from Midgely Green. They are the curators of some magnificent artisan-made items and sell some of my pieces which I make exclusively for them.

For more information, or to book a workshop, visit www.elisabethbarry.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 57

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BOOKS

ARTS

me great wanderlust joy looking at Mears’ own epic travels and it’s certainly enough to inspire a less ambitious (by which I mean guided and largely hotel-based) exploration of that landscape.

A HANDSOME LANDSCAPE TOME WHICH INSPIRES YOU TO GET YOUR HANDS DIRTY

HE SAID, SHE SAID This week, discover a gender blending selection of books that can be enjoyed by men and women alike

By N IC BO T T OM L E Y

I

f I were to talk about a book on the shop floor as being a “title that a woman might enjoy” or “something for a blokey bloke”, the only element of doubt would be whether the first verbal smack-down I’d receive would come from one of my fellow booksellers or from a customer. And whoever got there first, would be right.

But of course publishers are still publishing books geared very much to one gender or another, and, in part, that’s because they know that, as we enter gifting season, some customers will be seeking recommendations for relatives such as the “typical man”. Usually a bookseller will try and find out a little more about the gift recipient before offering a suggestion, but if the fact that they’re a quintessential chap is all there is to go on, then what are you left with?

Well, in 2016 the “typical man” tends to be obsessed with bikes and the outdoors and have an assured knack for self-sufficiency, from animal husbandry to whittling. This could of course leave those of us with the knot-tying talents of a three-year-old feeling somewhat inadequate, were we not so enlightened as to be able to simply shrug it off.

Perhaps the epitome of modern huntergatherer man is Ray Mears, and for years now he’s been releasing books connected to his TV appearances showing us how to chew up and spit out all the discomfort nature can throw at us. Mears’ brand new book marks a change though because it is such a work of beauty and so full of inspirational content that it has a much broader appeal than previous efforts.

Out on the Land: Bushcraft Skills from the Northern Forest (Bloomsbury, £25) is a handsome landscape tome which inspires you to get your hands dirty and cold, right from the cover shot of a glowing tent pitched in a snowy forest lit by a wisp of Aurora Borealis.

The book’s photography is incredible throughout as Mears introduces us to the wildlife and indigenous folk of the northern forests, to the stark seasonal differences of the extreme North and to the skills those spending time in that environment had best employ to survive and make the most of it.

If I was even a smidgen competent at remote adventuring then it would have me renting my sledge and huskies right away. As I’m not, well it won’t turn me into a snowshoeing Scandi-wanderer but it will give

With Poldark back on the screen, one perhaps predictable new addition to the ever growing “man skills” publishing craze is The Scything Handbook by Ian Miller (Filbert Press, £14.99). This stunning clothbound grey and mustard (it’s better than that sounds) book has the potential to be a fantastic offbeat gift for any gardener or smallholder who has grass or flower meadows to maintain and who’d like to learn how to do it in a more traditional and pleasing way than through the high-pitched whirring of the modern strimmer. This book wouldn’t work if it had come out of a large publishing house hoping to cash-in on modern trends – but that it isn’t the case at all. Filbert Press have only five books to their name to date and each is in the field of sustainable gardening, which makes this a genuine expert guide to a skill that’s making a comeback.

A real 21st century man will take a broader approach to his hobbies of course. Take knitting for example. Two years ago, a cult classic book – funny, yet also entirely serious – from the 1970s was reissued with great success. The Manly Art of Knitting by Dave Fougner (Gingko, £12) acts as practical guide to knitting basics, complete with patterns and projects to try. The basic skills taught overlap significantly with what you might find in many more conventional guides, but the end products (it’s all hammocks, saddle blankets and dog baskets) are brilliantly targeted to that resurgent outdoorsy male audience.

Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; 01225 331155; www.mrbsemporium.com

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FILM

ARTS

Clockwise from top left: Daniel Radcliffe plays a corpse in new film Swiss Army Man; if you’re brave enough, head to a screening of The Wicker Man; I, Daniel Blake is Bath’s Ken Loach’s new offering; enjoy John Osbourne’s modern classic The Entertainer

charm is its simplicity, old-fashioned love and affection, and of course the power to, once again, reduce me to a blubbering wreck.

ONE HAS A PROTAGONIST CALLED MANNY. YOU COULDN’T MAKE IT UP...

BOYS TO MEN

From Daniel Radcliffe’s newest role, to the latest offering from Bath’s very own Ken Loach, these are the films to catch at the Little this month

By J E N N I F E R J E N N I NGS W R IGH T

C

alling all chaps; as luck would have it, we have lots of boysy films coming up at the Little.

A couple even have ‘man’ in the title, and one has a protagonist called Manny.

You couldn’t make it up...

My first film, Swiss Army Man, is a somewhat surreal dramcom starring Paul Dano and Daniel Radcliffe. Hank (Dano) stranded on a deserted island, is desperate to the point of suicide. Until he meets the aforementioned Manny (Radcliffe), a flatulent corpse, washed up on the shore.

Hank is dead relieved and the two become firm friends, only to discover that his newfound companion cannot only talk but has myriad supernatural powers that he can take full advantage of. It’s bonkers, emotionally charged, and really rather good fun.

We’re also very happy to be showing the latest offering from Bath’s very own Ken Loach. I, Daniel Blake is Ken’s second Palme d’Or winner, the first being The Wind that

Shakes the Barley in 2006. A sombre film on benefit culture, it hits home the realities of hardship as the titular character endeavours to overcome the red tape involved in getting sickness benefit. Fifty-nine-year-old Daniel Blake has worked as a carpenter for most of his life before suffering a heart attack, and now needs outside help. On his quest for welfare, he meets a single mother also in need of state intervention and the two of them discover the joys of bureaucracy at its worst. It’s not easy viewing but an important film not to missed nonetheless.

From one of my favourite books by Raymond Briggs, and probably the first read to make me bawl like a baby, is the adaptation of Ethel and Ernest, a story of ordinary people in extraordinary times. A real cradle-to-grave story, it’s the tale of Mr Brigg’s parents – how they met, their first house, living through WW2 together and the birth of their only child, Raymond.

In fabulous hand-drawn animation, it’s as though the book has popped into life. Its

A quick mention for a very special showing of The Wicker Man (1973) on 28 October. The screening will take place at Castle Farm Café, Midford, and tickets, available from the café will include pizzas from the fired oven.

Another chap for whom things get a bit too hot is Don Giovanni, live from the Met Opera on 22 October. Mozart’s perennial crowd pleaser is always worth catching, but this production in particular is a belter with Simon Keenlyside making his Met role debut as the unrepentant seducer.

Finally, enjoy John Osborne’s modern classic, The Entertainer, set against the backdrop of post-war Britain, from Branagh Theatre Live on 27 October. Kenneth himself plays music-hall act Archie Rice, a performer who has seen better days but who refuses to give up his obsolete showbiz style.

I have a few more column inches, so just time to tell you about a couple of absolute corking showings coming your way in November. The first, Napoleon, is the 1927 epic (six hours long – inverse proportion to the size of the man himself ) silent French film, directed by Abel Gance. Waterlooser you’ll be if you don’t get yourself a ticket.

The second is The Battle of the Somme, a 1916 British documentary and propaganda film depicting the preliminaries and early days of the battle. Around 20 million people in Britain watched the film in the first six weeks of exhibition. Come on, we can beat that, no problem.

The Little Theatre, 1-2 St Michael’s Place 01225 466822; www.picturehouses.co.uk

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

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Charm Oriental Bar and Restaurant At this relaxed yet buoyant Thai restaurant, the flavours are so complex and graceful that they deserve your full attention

By L I SA E VA NS

H

aving taken over from Panasia in May, this beautiful, and still fairly new, Thai restaurant is huddled amongst the terraced buildings of Bath’s George Street, with plenty to keep your eyes entertained before you eat. Gold mosaic and sparkling, sequin-adorned walls vie with cushioned patchwork quilt-style walls for your attention, tasselled lanterns hang from the ceiling and tables are topped with glass that covers individual compartments, each containing a gold leaf.

We’d heard good things about their drinks offering and so decide to order a pan tea red ocean – a traditional Thai iced tea mixed with gin and fresh lime, topped with rose liquor – which tastes of summer holidays and is a fantastic way to kick things off. On to the menu, and our tough decisions are lifted when our waiter suggests a selection of chef’s recommendations. We willingly accept.

The ethos here is to order as many dishes as you want and then share them; the chef must have thought we needed a little fattening up, as here come five generous starters between two of us. There are delicate Hanoi rice paper rolls stuffed with vegetables and slippery coils of thin vermicelli; crispy fried chicken dumplings; grilled, glazed, splintering pork marinated in fresh, exotic herbs and toasted spices; crackling shitake spring rolls; and prawn tempura in a light batter, all served with an array of zingy dipping sauces, from sweet chilli to liquorice-dark ginger sake, all hot and sour loveliness.

Up next is a chuchee red curry in which neat, thick slices of grilled aubergine resembling sushi – cooked until spoonable - are spaced evenly on the plate, half submerged

IT STARTS AS A TEXTURAL

THING BEFORE CLOUTING YOU WITH A HIT OF FIRE AND A SERIOUSLY SAVOURY INTENT

in a powerfully deep-flavoured yet creamy sauce. It’s garnished with kaffir lime leaves, invigorating greens and chopped red chillies and is topped with crinkly skinned tablets of caramelised fried tofu. It starts as a textural thing – soothingly soft, crunchy and velvety – before clouting you with a hit of fire and a seriously savoury intent.

Served alongside the curry is an attractive-looking dish named pla pad prik khing – deep fried tilapia fillets tossed in a secret-recipe spicy, fragrant curry paste, the ingredients of which the chef politely refuses reveal. There are ethereal wafts of lemongrass and tingles of chilli within the layers of complex, fresh, aromatic flavours, but not so strong that they overpower the pearly fleshed fish, which still holds its own.

To complement the dishes is a side of pad Thai in which ribbons of fried rice noodles, with just a hint of bite, are mixed with plump, juicy prawns, tamarind sauce, beansprouts and a dusting of ground peanuts, as well as a bowl of Thai sticky rice.

The dessert menu mainly consists of samey Mövenpick ice cream flavours (not that we mind the lack of choice at this point, having already wildly overeaten) save for two authentic-sounding dishes – the banana fritter, and the taro and warm sticky rice. We opt for the latter, to share, and it comes nestled in a banana leaf and is served with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a scoop of ice cream – a perfectly comforting way to end the meal, though it doesn’t stand out amongst the mouth-watering dishes we’d already made our way through earlier in the evening.

The funky restaurant, which doesn’t have an empty seat even on this weekday evening, certainly stays true to its cultural influences while tickling and intriguing the taste buds with bold, playful, flavours from the Far East.

The dishes have a look-at-me brilliance and have such a vibrancy of flavours, you can almost hear them vibrating on the plates. It’s just a shame we couldn’t have ordered more (our waistbands wouldn’t allow it) which is why we’re looking forward to returning to try the Phuket-inspired sweet and crispy mussels, the duck in black bean sauce and the drunken noodles ( just for the name alone).

DINING DETAILS Charm Oriental Bar and Restaurant, 2 George Street, Bath, BA1 2EH, 01225 481 001; www.charmthaiuk.com Prices starters: £2.95 - £7.95; mains: £7.95 - £15.50; desserts: £2 - £4.95 Vegetarian choice almost all mains have a meat-free option Wine list a good amount of options alongside a popular and tempting cocktail offering Service/atmosphere warm and charismatic

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 65

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

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

THE BEAUFORT 1 Beaufort, London Road, Bath; 01225 422033; www.thebeaufortbath.com Family run restaurant in the heart of Larkhall cooking creative, seasonal food

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

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

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

FRENCH

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

GASTROPUBS

JOHANN LAFER, THE GAINSBOROUGH Beau St, Bath; 01225 358888; www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk Menus inspired by Johann Lafer’s “Dining Without Borders” philosophy MENU GORDON JONES 2 Wellsway, Bath; 01225 480871; www.menugordonjones.co.uk Multi award winning fine dining with constantly changing surprise tasting menu 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 66 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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

GPT SMOKEHOUSE 44-45 Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 429509; www.gptbath.com “Dude Food” menu cooked with authentic handmade American hot smoker KING WILLIAM 36 Thomas St, Bath; 01225 428096; www.kingwilliampub.com Pub with an upstairs dining room serving a modern British menu based on west country produce 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 THE GARRICKS HEAD 7-8 St John's Rd, City Centre, Bath; 01225 318368; www.garricksheadpub.com

City centre pub and dining room next to Theatre Royal 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 area 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 THE RICHMOND ARMS 7 Richmond Place, Bath; 01225 316725; www.therichmondarmsbath.com Hearty dishes with menu changing on a daily basis

INDIAN THE EASTERN EYE 8a Quiet St, Bath; 01225 422323; www.easterneye.com Classic traditional Bengali cuisine in grand Georgian interior space 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 RAJPOOT 4 Argyle St, Bath; 01225 466833; www.rajpoot.com Award-winning Indian fine dining at Bath institution

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

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

MARTINI RESTAURANT 8-9 George St, Bath; 01225 460818; www.martinirestaurant.co.uk Traditional Italian food served in a cosy atmosphere

DOUGH The Corridor, Bath; 01225 443686; www.doughpizzarestaurant.co.uk World class pizza from Massimo Nucaro

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

THE OVEN 21 Westgate St, Bath; 01225 311181; www.theovenpizzeria.co.uk Neapolitan artisan pizza using local and Italian imported produce

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

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

MOROCCAN

STEAK HOUSES

TAGINE ZHOR 1a North Parade, Bath; 01225 466437; www.taginezhor.co.uk Bath’s only Moroccan restaurant serving authentic cuisine in atmospheric surroundings

THE HERD 12a Argyle St, Bath; 01225 316583; www.theherdrestaurant.co.uk Locally sourced meat of the finest provenance alongside a simple, seasonal menu

PIZZA

TAPAS

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 OLÉ TAPAS 1 John Street, Bath; 01225 466440; www.oletapas.co.uk Charming, authentic Spanish tapas – one of Bath’s best kept secrets

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

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

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

GASTROPUBS

THE GREENHOUSE RESTAURANT The Pavilion, Wadswick Green, Corsham SN13 9RD; 01225 585880; www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk Smart, stylish and relaxed new dining destination

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

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS

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 Park restaurant and more informal dining at the stylish contemporary brasserie at 5 star country house hotel

THE FOX AT BROUGHTON GIFFORD The Street, Broughton Gifford, Wilts,

SN12 8PW; 01225 782949; www.thefox-broughtongifford.co.uk Famous for Sunday Lunches using own produce and wide range of beers and wines 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 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

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

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Our three course festive menu £25

The Green, Biddestone, Nr Chippenham, Wiltshire SN14 7DG Tel: 01249 714377

www.biddestonearms.co.uk

Quality food • Great location • Free delivery

Our new website is now LIVE! Please use the code: ILOVESUSHI to get 10% discount. www.bathsushi.co.uk 01225 330508

Delicious new menu now available!

Experience real Moroccan food cooked and served in a distinctive and traditional manner together with genuine warm hospitality in absolute beautiful Moroccan surroundings.

Arabic and Fresh Mint Tea and Baklava Shisha Pipe • Bazaar Shop CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN

REAL MOROCCAN CUISINE 1A North Parade Bath, BA11LF Reservations: 01225 839822 Enquiries: 01225 466437 www.taginezhor.co.uk

1

RAISING the STEAKS We did some digging into Bath’s best steak joints (tough job) to make sure you’ll never sit through a sub-standard chop again 1. CAU When Cau was opened in Milsom Place at the start of the year, the vision for the restaurant was one which captured the spirit of Buenos Aires. “If we could replicate that vitality, passion and sense of fun, we knew CAU would be a place people would want to spend time,” says general manager Alexandre Mondou. “Our menu is a melting pot of comfort food inspired by Italy and Spain alongside the jewel in Argentina’s crown, its beef.”

The eatery, which covers two floors and is complete with a terrace and walled courtyard, has a modern décor painted with blue-sky scenery and balances playfulness with outstanding steaks, which are either cooked on an open grill or in a charcoal oven. Head chef Dimitrios Akritidis recommends the 500g Asado de Chorizo – a sirloin steak marinated in smoked paprika, aji molido, garlic and parsley (£34.95).

What makes your steak offering special? Our beef is Aberdeen Angus from Argentina and is only grass fed.

The cattle walk on average 200km a year which means the meat is very low in saturated fat yet high in vitamins and iron.

2. Miller & Carter “Beef is a labour of love here,” says Richard Shardelow, the general manger of Miller and Carter on Milsom Street. “We put everything into pursuing the perfect steak, from the field to the butcher’s block to the grill, so only the finest, most flavoursome cuts make your plate.”

And the perfect steak as far as 2 Richard is concerned is reared on handpicked British and Irish farms to provide the optimum succulence and flavour, wet or dry-aged for at least 30 days and then hand-cut by their own, expert butchers ready for their specially trained chefs to season and grill them.

Having opened three years ago, the restaurant has 12 cuts to choose from, including its impressive 30-ounce long bone Tomahawk, at £49.95, and perhaps also try their handmade steak burgers and their smoked barbeque ribs.

What else: An exciting new menu for October.

www.caurestaurants.com

www.millerandcarter.co.uk

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

TESTING, TESTING

3. The Herd Expect juicy cuts of 28-day matured hunks of locally sourced, top cuts of chargrilled meat at The Herd on Argyle Street.

You’ll find a no-nonsense menu offering Aberdeen Angus and Hereford Cross prepared by specialist butcher and head chef Marco Incerto, formerly of Bath’s Joya.

“The best steak is a combination of the best available cut of meat and a top-notch chef to cook it to perfection,” says Francesca Addabbo, who owns the restaurant alongside Timothy Coffey.

The owners’ first shop was The Real Italian Ice Cream Company, and since then they’ve successfully run The Real Italian Pizza Company and Joya, followed by The Herd in 2013.

The most popular dish: The sharing platter for two (eightounce ribeye, eight-ounce sirloin, four-ounce fillet) at £48.95.

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www.theherdrestaurant.co.uk

4. Hudson Steakhouse Having been open for 12 years, this London Street steakhouse knows its way around seriously thick, prime, dry-aged beef. A relaxed and stylish restaurant in a former Victorian inn, Hudson’s meat is chosen at Smithfield and Staffordshire and is aged by its local beef expert Tom Ody at Terry & Son butchers in Bath. Prepared by chef Mike Beckingham – previously of the Michelin-starred Moody Goose – and Mark Baily who was formerly at Bath’s Moon and Sixpence, the steaks range in price up to a 10-ounce fillet, which costs £35. The seasonal menu also serves seafood, pork and free-range chicken.

“The perfect steak is well soused, dry-aged for at least 30 days, and is British,” says owner Richard Fenton who also runs Firehouse Rotisserie on John Street and Bartlett Street’s Café Lucca. “It comes well seasoned with a caramelised sear on each side and a juicy, tender inside.”

Richard’s choice: “Our flat iron early evening special at £15.95 with a glass of wine is very tasty.”

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www.hudsonsteakhouse.co.uk

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5. Graze Bath The Brunel Square restaurant, which opened in 2012, is something of a flagship for Bath Ales and is double the size of any of its other pubs. Expect a particular emphasis on dry-aged, rare-breed steaks – from flat iron and ribeye to T-bone and chateaubriand – cooked in a Josper charcoal oven by head chef Ben Green.

Respect for ingredients is crucial to Ben who believes the more you understand about the animal and the meat itself, the better the steak will be.

“Graze’s exceptional location sets it aside from other eateries in the city,” he says.

“Nestled above the arches of Bath’s original 19th century railway station, floor-toceiling windows offer panoramic views.”

What’s new for autumn? A range of burgers, including a venison version served with cranberry-ketchup and roasted onions. www.bathales.com

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Shop • Cafe • Plants Now taking Christmas bookings

Shop... for all of your fresh fruit, vegetables, bread, plants and more Cafe... Sit back, relax and enjoy the atmosphere with a fine cup of coffee or an afternoon tea. We also serve breakfast and light bites for those feeling a little peckish and roast dinners are now available on Mondays!

Plants... We sell beautiful seasonal plants and flowers which can be found in and around the Farm Shop.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

free wi-fi

Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm 10am - 4pm Sundays and Bank Holidays

Weekesley Ln, Timsbury, Bath, BA2 0NH 01761 470089 info@meadgatefarmshop.co.uk www.meadgatefarmshop.co.uk

Quality food freshly prepared for you

RICHMOND ARMS A country pub in the city

Book your Christmas Party today!

Fine coffee • Homemade cakes • Sharing platters Small plates • Fresh & locally sourced menu Hand picked wines • Local cask ales

99 The Strand, Semington, Trowbridge, BA14 6LL

01225 316725 7 RICHMOND PLACE, BATH BA1 5PZ

WWW.THERICHMONDARMSBATH.COM

Friday Night Disco Nights Dinner & Disco t 01380 870263

e restaurant@lambonthestrand.co.uk www.thelambonthestrand.co.uk

THURSDAY 27TH OCTOBER Lunch with Orton Jewellery We have invited local bespoke jewellers Christine and Lee from Orton’s Jewellery for an interesting talk on the history of diamonds.

Luncheon Club, 12.00pm with lunch at 12.30pm: £29.50 per person including a three-course lunch and a glass of wine LUNCH FROM 1ST DECEMBER Two course £20.50 Three Courses £25.00 (Christmas crackers included) SEASONAL CHRISTMAS DINNER 1ST DECEMBER Three Courses £35.00 (Wednesday – Friday) Three courses £38.00 (Saturday) NEW YEAR’S EVE Celebration Venetian themed Gala Dinner Aperitif and canapés from 7.30pm, dinner at 8pm. Five courses £95.00 Early bookings recommended!

St Margaret’s Street, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1DA 01225 781666 | thethreegables.com | info@thethreegables.com TheThreeGables

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SPECIAL EVENTS

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At The Three Gables, we offer accomplished cooking at affordable prices: a modern menu with Mediterranean influences, using fine local produce with classic techniques.

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THE THREE GABLES

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AT THE GREENHOUSE IT’S

CHRISTMAS TIME

Join us at The Greenhouse Restaurant this Christmas and enjoy the festive party season in a relaxed and stylish setting, the perfect destination to share in the celebrations with your family, friends and colleagues too.

We’ll be offering a 2 or 3 course festive fayre (£20pp for 2 courses or £24pp for 3 courses) available for lunch and dinner from 28 November – 24 December.

We’ll also be open on Christmas Day for a gourmet dining experience and again on Boxing Day for classic brunch and gastro pub lunch dishes.

For more information visit www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk FESTIVE OPENING HOURS CHRISTMAS EVE open for lunch and dinner, normal opening hours CHRISTMAS DAY open 11am - 5pm BOXING DAY open 11am - 6pm 27 TO 30 DECEMBER normal opening hours NEW YEAR’S EVE normal opening hours - ‘til late NEW YEAR’S DAY 11am - 6pm

Booking during the festive period is essential

WADSWICK GREEN WELCOMES YOU TO THEIR

WINTE

R CRAFT FAIR

FREE AND ENTRY PARK ING TO T CRAF HE T FAIR

FRIDAY 11 NOV 12PM – 8PM & SATURDAY 12 NOV 10AM – 3PM

Join us for the ultimate marquee shopping experience – quality locally handmade products and a chance to win some fabulous prizes from our charity raffle in support of Dorothy House Hospice Care.

Get the girls together for a spot of ‘late night’ Friday shopping and visit the Wadswick Green Spa to make your evening extra special by enjoying a twilight pamper session for just £35pp. Booking is essential – 01225 583030.

Invite all of the family on Saturday to our luxury marquee for tasty treats and more. Or enjoy a spot of lunch, delicious warm drinks and food served by The Greenhouse Restaurant.

The Greenhouse Restaurant is open Mon-Sat from 9am-11pm and Sun 10am-8pm (last orders at 6pm).

You can reserve a table at any time by calling us on 01225 585880 or book online at www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk THE GREENHOUSE RESTAURANT THE PAVILLION | WADSWICK GREEN | CORSHAM SN13 9RD

Milsom Place, Bath BA1 1BZ Mon - Sat Sun

09:00 - 23:00 10:00 - 18:00

@Hunter_Sons

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

PHOTO BY DERRYN VRANCH

ELECTRIC DREAMS

J The Electric Bear Brewing Co team, from left, Jack Delaney, Guillermo Alvarez, Jacqueline Lewis, Chris Lewis, Ryan Reed and Matt Lauder

Electric Bear Brewing Co. have had triple success at the World Beer Awards 2016. Their craft ale Mochachocolata Ya Ya!, Heisenberg and Samurye, all of which were brewed in Bath, were each awarded best in their category by a panel of international judges.

“To say we’re over the moon with these awards is an understatement,” says founder Chris Lewis. “When we set up the brewery we knew we were ambitious and wanted to win awards for our beers but to actually achieve this in such a short time frame is a testament to everyone who’s involved in the Electric Bear team.”

More than 1,500 beers types of beer from 30 countries, competed in the prestigious awards, which took place at the end of August.

For more: www.electricbearbrewing.com

HARVEST TIME The Community Farm is sending out an open invitation to join them for a hands-on harvest experience.

The award-winning organic vegetable box delivery service, which ploughs all of its profits back into learning experiences and activities for adults and children, wants visitors of all ages to help pick crops including squash, leeks and kale. “It’s a good way for local people to mark the changing of the seasons and feel closer to the land,” says Ped Asgarian, the farm’s managing director.

“And it’s also a great chance for local people to sample the delicious homegrown organic produce.” The next Community Farmer Days are 22 October and 12 November.

For more: www.thecommunityfarm.co.uk

Smashing pumpkins

The spice is right with Sumayya Usmani

SPICE GIRL

Sumayya Usmani is coming to Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath on 29 October to promote her book Summers Under the Tamarind Tree, which is a celebration of contemporary Pakistani recipes. “I began food writing on my own website, while I practiced as a solicitor in London and Karachi, before becoming a full-time food writer in 2011,” explains Sumayya. “My mother, grandmothers and aunts cooked by ‘andaza’, which means estimation. They taught me the importance of breathing in aromas, sensing when it needs an added touch of something – I was always encouraged never to be a slave to a recipe, but use it as your guide to create authentic flavour.”

For more: www.toppingbooks.co.uk

NAILING IT

Mike, Wendy and Emily nail it with the help of chartered company secretary Paul Dolan

Time Out, the classic 1950s-style coffee bar found in the Guildhall Market, has a new owner and the deal was carried out in true historical market style. Mike Watts and Wendy Race sold the bar to Emily Peacock and conducted the sale on the famous 18th-century pillar, The Nail. This was where all buying and selling between market traders and suppliers traditionally happened, giving rise to the phrase ‘pay on the nail’.

Wendy, who along with Mike still owns the two Funtastic! Party shops in the Guildhall Market, says, “We will really miss the social side of Time Out, but we are so pleased that it’s now in the safe hands of Emily.”

For more: www.bathguildhallmarket.co.uk

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

Experience the magic of Christmas with family and friends at TRH The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall’s private estate in Tetbury, Gloucestershire

C H R I S TM A S S HOPPI NG & C H A M PA G N E Wednesday to Sunday each week from 23rd November to 16th December Lose yourself in Christmas cheer with a gift fair brimming with artisan wares. Enjoy complimentary champagne and options for lunch or afternoon tea Tickets from £3.50

HIGHGROVE CHRISTMAS BL ACK TIE DINNER Saturday 17th December Start your Christmas celebrations in style with a magical evening of delicious food and wine served with the splendour of Highgrove, including entertainment and an after dinner auction £99.95 per person

F E S T I V E FA M I LY BR U NC H O R L U N C H W I T H S A N TA Sunday 18th December An enchanting experience to receive a gift from Santa and his reindeer, including a delicious brunch or Sunday lunch served in the beautiful setting of the Orchard Room Tickets from £15

Tickets must be booked in advance and are strictly limited.

Please visit www.highgrovegardens.com or call customer services on 0333 222 4555 to book

Fashion/gifts/stores/more

URBAN CHIC Lurdes Bergadà began making her own clothes with only the ambition of dressing up in her own style. It wasn’t long until others began to show interest in what she was wearing. And it was around that revelation that she decided to make a career in fashion design in the early 1970s.

“We are proud to be the only UK stockists of Barcelona-based, cuttingedge designer brand Lurdes Bergadà,” says the owner of Blue at The Loft, Bath, Suzanne Temple. “The style is one we’d describe as urban-chic, well-priced and sophisticated in a casual way; it has a unique and individual flair that you won’t find on the high street.”

For the autumn/winter collection, expect streamlined trench coats, asymmetric jackets, midi tunics, textured shirts, voluminous bubble skirts, drop-crotch trousers and cropped military jackets, all in a deep colour palette featuring forest green, brushed indigo and charcoal grey.

The Lurdes Bergadà range is available at Blue at The Loft, 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; www.bluewomensclothing.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 79

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1. THAT’S A WRAP

2. SIP IT

3. FACE TIME

4. SUITS YOU

5. LEATHER LUXE

Check scarf, £28 This classic tartan Barbour accessory will keep you warm, in style and offers a touch of subtle detail From John Anthony, 26-28 High Street, Bath; www.john-anthony.com

Daines & Hathaway hip flasks, from £40 Quintessentially English, they’re the perfect takealong to sporting events, picnics or bracing country walks From The Foodie Bugle Shop, 2 Abbey Street, Bath; www. thefoodiebugleshop.com

Rosendahl, Picto watch, £115 Sometimes it’s the simple things that are the best, and this classy, modern Danish design proves that From Quadri, 16 Milsom Place, Milsom Street, Bath; www.quadri.co.uk

Tweed jacket, £229 With its classic fit and timeless design, this luxury British jacket would suit any gent’s wardrobe From Charles Tyrwhitt, 15 Old Bond Street, Bath; www.ctshirts.com

The Amsterdam ‘Bond’ Chair, £1,495 As seen in Spectre – and sat in by Daniel Craig’s James Bond – this 007 chair is as slick as they come From Leather Chairs of Bath, 10 York Street, Bath; www.leatherchairs.co.uk

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

SHOPPING

ED’S CHOICE

6

7

TOP BLOKES

OUR ‘HOMME-AGE’ TO THE GENTS – A SPOT OF SELF-GIFTING NEVER HURT ANYONE… 8

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6. FLORAL FANCY

7. MONEY BAGS

8. BUCKLE UP

9. DAILY GRIND

10. MADE FOR WALKING

Liberty print shirt, £115 For the fashionably flamboyant, this nifty number, with its bold, floral designs, is a fabulous pick for the new season From Brora, 6 Bridge Street, Bath; www.brora.co.uk

Leather wallet, £34.95 From the Wild and Wolf collection comes this ‘Fortune favours the brave’ embossed wallet with handsome felt accents From Bloomsbury, 15 New Bond Street, Bath; www. bloomsburystore.com

Gucci belt, £95 Finished with a signature double G buckle, this is an understated and stylish way to dress up an outfit From Grace & Ted, 10 Kingsmead Square, Bath; www.graceandted.co.uk

Bernard & Samuel mugs, £10 each These novelty cups, with their glorious beards, add a friendly face to your coffee in the morning From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

Tracht und Country shoe, £88 Super comfortable and hard-wearing, these sidelacing shoes are a perfect guilt-free purchase From Uber, 6 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.uberview.co.uk

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Relax, Rejuvenate, & Revitalise #

25% DISCOUNT on all treatments over ÂŁ35

Monday - Wednesday from 5 September - 23 November 2016 Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion

day spa for men and women 14 green street, bath BA1 2JZ tel: 01225 426000 www.greenstreethouse.com

ad v e r tisi n g feat u r e h e a lt h a n d f i t n e s s

all gain, no pain!

Dave Wilby, the founder and CEO of Team Breakthrough explains how his groundbreaking approach to personal training and therapy has been keeping his clients in peak condition and pain-free for over 14 years

T

eam Breakthrough has developed quite a reputation for physical transformations in the past few years, but Dave Wilby is keen to stress that how clients look is only half of the battle. Feeling great and being healthy are just as important.

When you walk through to door at Team Breakthrough the first thing you see is a large, amazingly well equipped, light airy gym. The next thing you notice is that everyone using the equipment is being supervised by their own personal trainer.

And it is this key difference that sets Team Breakthrough apart from the many other fitness businesses in the area.

“When you take on a programme at Team Breakthrough you are not just doing it yourself.

You have the support of a highly-skilled and experienced expert team to help, guide and encourage you,” explains Dave.

“Everyone here really cares about their individual clients and takes a personal pride in helping them achieve their goals. These can be fat loss, improved body shape, confidence

“One of our great strengths is the therapy team”

issues, and in many cases chronic pain.”

The Team Breakthrough experience begins with an assessment by your assigned trainer.

Initially it is all pretty standard stuff: height, weight, body fat, but then things get a bit more in depth.

Dave is a qualified neuromuscular therapist and he likes to (literally) get to grips with his clients’ potential injury problems before starting them in the gym.

“One of our great strengths is the therapy team,” says Dave. “A lot of the people who come to us are in pain. We get clients with everything from serious spinal conditions to niggling sports injuries “We have a wide range of skills we can offer and we put together programmes based on their needs, be it physical therapy followed by exercise to increase muscle strength and mobility, or weight loss.

“We specialise in clients who don’t like gyms, so the environment and ethos is very important as well. We aim to get them fit, healthy and pain-free but we want them to enjoy doing it.”

Appointments are scheduled around the client’s needs and if you prefer to workout with other people there are also group training sessions available most weekday mornings and evenings as well as Saturday morning.

There is no membership fee and all training and therapy sessions are offered on an hourly rate.

Dave Wilby, founder and CEO of Team Breakthrough

team breakthrough

Special Offer for readers GET 15% OFF your first month's personal training* *Valid for new clients only.

One voucher per customer.

For use before 14 December 2016.

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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 85

AYR FORCE ANNA BRITTEN flies from Exeter as far north as she’s ever been

G R E AT ESCAPES attentive staff. A cinema and rooftop terrace are in the pipeline. The hotel also bears the Relais & Chateaux mark of approval, which makes it a magnet for the international clientele, many of whom are researching their Scottish ancestry (and doubtless praying it involves a pile like this).

Our junior suite, one of 17 regal bedrooms, surveys the Irish Sea, and within it rocky islet Ailsa Craig from whence, we learn, the world’s curling stones are hewn. Carpets are plush, bed is four poster, a huge bathroom seems to be around 70% marble. Wow.

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Clockwise from left: Glenapp’s plush dining room; the clear night skies are popular with stargazers; views towards Ailsa Craig and Northern Ireland; Glenapp is one of Scotland’s most romantic castles; the bedrooms are the height of oldschool, period luxury; through big gates and up a long drive appears the pretty main entrance

ormally, when it comes to aviation-based travel, my first thoughts are of heading south. I suspect yours might be, too. But since Flybe brought back direct flights between Exeter and Glasgow a year ago, the charm of the far north of the UK has become temptingly tangible.

Integral to that charm are the thousands of castles scattered across Scotland, of which Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire is a strikingly beautiful example. Confession: I’d never been to Scotland. But the sheer luxury of this place lured me there.

On the one-hour-and-45 minute drive from Glasgow, and in moody, typically Nordic weather, the landscape is tranquil yet packed with geological drama, and seemingly unchanged for millennia. I’m reminded of the bit in Adrian Mole’s Diary when he writes an ode to the Scottish countryside that is almost entirely composed of the words ‘majestic’ and ‘majesty’. I now entirely sympathise.

Built in 1870 in the baronial style, Glenapp is at the end of a long, winding drive – and through gates that yield only once your right to be there has been established via the intercom, making you feel a bit Kanye.

All glowing sandstone turret and towers, amid glorious Gertrude Jekyll and Robert Lorimer gardens, the former seat of the Earl of Inchcape (now owned by asset management company founder Paul Szkiler), has been spectacularly restored over many years. It oozes reliable, old-fashioned, slightly strait-laced, period luxury: antiques, ornate cornicing, dark wood paneling, gently

After drinks in the main lounge, on one of the most-plumped-up sofas my derrière’s ever enjoyed, our six-course dinner in the hushed, crimson, chandeliered dining room is textbook linen-and-crystal fine dining. Head chef Tyron Ellul certainly has an overflowing local larder to delve into: we dine on roe deer from the Glenapp Estate itself, chicken paupiette, banana soufflé, and a spread of exceptionally good regional cheeses.

Practically all fruit and veg is grown on the estate. Breakfast the next morning is equally impressive (and features, inevitably, haggis).

And attractions beyond the castle walls?

To be honest, Glenapp is the sort of place you take root in for the duration of your stay.

Long baths, pots of tea before the fire, gentle strolls around the 40 acre grounds, reading 200 pages of War & Peace... you get the picture. But, if you must, nearby attractions include several world-class golf courses (including Donald Trump’s Turnberry) and plenty of distraction for the non-golfer in the form of more castles, gardens, forests, boat trips (Glenapp has its own eight-seater rib that you can charter to the Mull of Kintyre and elsewhere), and quaint villages.

Glenapp’s ace team – special mention for manager John Orr – will stop at nothing to make your trip special. On clear nights they’ll organise stargazing sessions under blankets on sunloungers, and once conspired with an American guest for pipers to serenade his wife beneath the window on her birthday.

All in all, Glenapp is one of the most luxurious, and – yes, ‘majestic’ – places I’ve ever had the privilege of staying in. “Haste ye back” insist the road signs around here.

That’d be nae bother, I think.

TRAVEL DETAILS FlyBe flies direct from Exeter Airport to Glasgow International between five and seven times a week, depending on the season. Flights cost from £34.99.

Rooms at Glenapp Castle Hotel cost from £236 (early booking) for two people for one night.

Glenapp Castle Hotel, Ballantrae, Ayrshire, Scotland KA26 0NZ; 01465 831212; glenappcastle.com

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Office design experts Interaction helped develop Curo new grand designs

OFFICE AFFAIRS These stylish, good looking and uber cool workspaces are working hard at stealing our hearts

By SA R A H MOOL L A

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

COOL OFFICES

The DKA studio enjoy a Kennet and Avon canal location

WE LOVE THIS

LAYOUT BECAUSE IT MEANS THAT WE ALL LEARN FROM EACH OTHER, ALMOST BY OSMOSIS

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ot all offices are created equal. Some make you love them more. From plants, art and office bars (yes, we’re looking longingly at you Interaction) to pops of colour, outdoor space and open-plan kitchens, more and more companies, whether they be small digital start-ups or established old-school businesses, are looking up from their desks and changing what they see. Brand reflection, customer experience and caring about staff morale are just a few of the reasons cited for renovating and revamping their surrounds. Here, eight locally-based companies, talk us through their wonderful workspaces...

CURO GROUP

Housing association and house-builder DONNA WARR | HEAD OF COLLEAGUE EXPERIENCE Social housing providers like Curo are having to act more commercially and we see ourselves at the forefront of shaking off the traditional image that’s been associated with the sector in the past.

One of our core values at Curo is openness, so making every floor open plan, with no closed doors, was the first obvious change to make.

We created an open, central reception space with no barriers between customers and colleagues.

There’s a relaxed lounge area for customers with sofas, free wi-fi, coffee, iPads and a kids’ den with an Xbox. The atmosphere is energetic

and fun, and feels instantly welcoming from the moment you see the ‘Come on in’ sign outside the building.

Creative spaces and open plan offices have led to better team working and, with no barriers, closed doors or separate offices, everyone feels more connected across the business. People can work flexibly with hot-desking, quiet spaces and areas to collaborate formally and informally. www.curo-group.co.uk

DKA

Architects designing commercial buildings and interiors DAVID MUNDAY | PRACTICE MANAGER Our studio inhabits a former Malt House on the Kennet and Avon canal. We are currently refurbishing the studio, which is very exciting in terms of both the design and the construction.

The trouble with having a studio of designers present while plans are drawn up, and then subsequently during the construction phase, is that everyone has a really good idea of how to improve something. As architects, we really love white and grey – it goes with everything – it’s clean and fresh, and means you can introduce accent colours to create interest.

We have large images of completed projects on the walls with testimonials from our clients, just to inspire us but the best part is the view from our windows of the canal and our beautiful city beyond. As we are situated right on the canal, there have been many amusing conversations about designing a bridge, or even having a canal w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 89

COOL OFFICES boat meeting space… maybe one day!

It is an open plan environment where everyone sits together. We love this layout because it means that we all learn from each other, almost by osmosis. www.dka.co.uk

GLOVE FACTORY STUDIOS

A workspace hub for start-ups, creative entrepreneurs and independent professionals PHILIPPA KINDON | GENERAL MANAGER Creative and like-minded business people want to connect, create, network and realise business ideas. We wanted to create a space that facilitated the growth of contemporary businesses and we find that a bright light industrial aesthetic is both appealing and creative.

The studios are focused around an open garden courtyard, which leads onto a seating terrace and then into 32 acres of parkland fields, with two small lakes. The whole reason for being here is to bring an urban workspace concept to a landscape setting, with good access links to Bath, Bristol and London.

Little Lightbulb, who have been studio holders since September 2015 say, “Most workspaces are, well, just that – a place to work and get through yet another Monday. The reason the Glove Factory is different is ultimately ‘the brand’. And we don’t just mean the cliché ‘look and feel’, but everything from the brilliant staff, idyllic scenery through to the pioneering companies that make up the studio holders. Here you feel like you’re really part of an exciting movement.” www.glovefactorystudios.com

HOMELETS

Residential lettings and property management MARCUS ARUNDELL | MANAGING DIRECTOR We opted for neutral tones alongside our core brand colour palette, with modern desking, and fixtures and fittings. Fabrics were kept to a minimum besides seating areas, again colour coordinated, with our illuminated window displays showcasing properties round the clock.

Wall graphics and pictures of the city add to the sense of location around the offices, with lots of greenery used wherever possible.

Our aim was to create a user-friendly, purposebuilt space to showcase our brand within the city.

Respecting the past but most certainly engaging with the times and indeed the future.

Clients and the public expect a service industry such as ours to deliver the very best across the board, therefore this transcends into the environment in which we work and entertain our customer base.

With the use of bright colours, plenty of natural and artificial light and greenery, we aim to provide a healthy environment that encourages our team to work best together. www.homeletsbath.co.uk 90 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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Above: Homelets uses wall graphics of the city in their décor; Far left: Two lakes and 32 acres of parkland surround the Glove Factory Studios

HERE YOU FEEL LIKE YOU’RE REALLY PART OF AN EXCITING MOVEMENT

After 4 years in the Chelsea Design Quarter we are back in Bath !

10 York Street, Bath BA1 1NH leatherchairs.co.uk

Creative workplace designers Interaction have their own city centre bar

INTERACTION

Creative workplace design and build experts Dieter Wood | managing director We wanted to open the space up as much as possible, to make it feel light and spacious and not as you would expect a basement to feel. It was a big change, when we moved, to a hot desking environment. It allows staff the freedom to work at a desk, in a meeting room, quiet area, design bench and also allows different teams and staff to collaborate as and when required.

Storage has been planned around a column so it is not obvious, and below the design bench there is deep storage for samples, presentation boards, portfolios, etc.

We found two more vaults as we were knocking walls down, which allowed us to incorporate the bar and toilets.

The layout works very well for us as we have designed a variety of spaces to allow teams to function for both formal and informal Interaction meetings.

It is very much a team space. The gym, breakout area / design bench, and bar area are all great for work relations and staff morale.

The Volt bar is used every Friday as a social event for whoever is in the office. www.interaction.uk.com

ORX

Financial services association Alison Easto | sales and marketing officer The previous offices were quite run down, very dark, came with temporary furniture that was mismatched and not comfortable and provided no communal space. It did not allow staff to openly communicate with each other.

We used the design firm Interaction, and now 92 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The Guild’s style is “funky, eclectic and a riot of colour”

our offices and meeting rooms are all glass walled to promote openness and give the working area a light and spacious feel.

One element that really shows the move towards encouraging interaction and communication amongst staff are the desk pedestals. As well as being a set of drawers, they all have cushions on top and so can be easily pulled out from under the desk to use as a temporary seat when talking to colleagues.

The reactions have been extremely positive.

ORX has members from over 90 of the world’s leading financial institutions who recently visited the new Bath offices for our conference, and all were impressed with the professional yet friendly and open feel of the office. www.orx.org

RACS GROUP

Leading payroll providers in the temporary recruitment and contractor sector Andrew Pinnell | marketing director The growth of the business dictated that we were looking for a large, predominantly openplan space that could accommodate up to 100 plus desks, meeting rooms, break-out areas and a staff socialising area including a fullyfunctional canteen.

RACS Group’s unique brand identity is extensively incorporated into all facets of the interior design with avatars of staff and sectors adorning many of the walls and glass manifestations. Other wall areas take the form of an art-gallery with framed advertisements, advertorials and PR coverage hung symmetrically to create a contemporary record of the company’s history and growth.

In terms of furniture and accessories, we

RACS Group’s unique brand identity

is extensively incorporated into all facets of the interior

design

COOL OFFICES

ORX used Interaction to help create a light and spacious feel

selected products from leading office suppliers including snow-white desking systems from Elite, intimate alcove sofas by Vitra, Haworth task chairs and computer monitor arms by Humanscale.

There is a full-size branded snooker table, a dartboard and table tennis table in the chill-out area, plus a free coffee machine in the canteen.

We also have a bike museum, with a collection of over 100 Raleigh Choppers and Grifters! www.racsgroup.com

THE GUILD

The RACS workers can chill out with table tennis, snooker, darts and the Pink Panther

Creative and tech co-working space TOM LEWIS | GUILD FOUNDER Our style is funky, eclectic and a riot of colour. We are blessed with being in the most amazing Grade I listed building right in the centre of town, and we’ve worked hard to celebrate the heritage of the space, alongside some very provocative touches, like our Simon Spillsbury mural.

The Guild was designed to appeal to freelancers who have graduated from working out of local coffee shops, and to provide an environment which gave the same sense of sociability and community, but with a more professional twist.

People tell us that their productivity hugely increases while they are here, and that the other people they meet, the relationships and the ventures they form together, make the cost of membership a valuable investment. Part of that is because of the atmosphere – it’s such a lovely place to come and work, or even just hang out.

The co-working industry is still young, and we’re all still learning about best practice. It looks very different now to how it did back in 2013, and we are constantly looking to update and improve the member experience. www.theguildhub.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 93

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E W O R K S PA C E D E S I G N

A GUIDE TO CREATING A GREAT PLACE TO WORK As Bath provides a hub for thriving businesses, more companies are aiming to give their staff a workplace to improve morale and foster creativity

B

ath-based workplace design and build specialist Interaction have been helping businesses create inspirational workplaces to support wellbeing and productivity for over 24 years. Here Interaction provide an insight into some of the elements that help create a great place to work.

LOOKING BEYOND AESTHETIC

Often a great workplace looks great, but it has to be great to function to it’s best ability.

Aesthetic is invariably important, but how a workspace looks should not be a sole driver in the design. A balance between function and aesthetic must be struck as the two go together naturally. The value of having an office that looks amazing is irrefutable, but it also has to meet the needs of employees to work. The whole point of an office is to bring people together, to work towards a collective goal, aid collaboration and reinforce a culture and experience. This ultimately adds value and enhances your business; and if it looks great, then that’s an added bonus.

GETTING OVER THE GOOGLE EFFECT

Many people still look to Google as the champion and founder of the creative office. As a result people endeavour to create and reflect that quintessential environment. This approach is often misconceived, the focus shouldn’t be

on replicating an office environment. It’s more important to introspectively analyse the needs and culture of your company, and then create a workplace to reflect this. However, there’s a reason Google and other companies have exciting facilities in their office. Putting a bar or gym into an office is not done for the sake of it. These features can encourage collaboration, sociability and exercise; it’s crucial for employees to embrace them into the company culture to get out the most value.

GRAPPLING WITH CHANGE

Change is constant in the workplace and offices are not just offices anymore. Mobility and flexibility are key components of the modern workplace as people can work from anywhere.

Nevertheless offices aren’t redundant, they are critical to bring people together as a collective force. It’s imperative that offices are designed to meet the needs of a mobile workforce, and for the attitudinal shift of the new generations.

GENERATIONAL ADAPTATION

Millennials (people born between 1981-1997) are becoming a substantial part of today’s workforce and will play an even bigger role in the future. This generation place value on being self reliant, lifestyle centred and expect more from the modern workplace. This means creating a workplace with flexibility to allow people to work their way, having different spaces for different tasks is essential. Adapting

and future proofing your office means that attracting and retaining the talent Millennial’s have to offer becomes an easier task.

IN ESSENCE

Providing a great place to work that supports wellbeing and productivity isn’t easy, but a simple reevaluation is a good way to start, whether relocating or simply improving an existing workplace. The future of Bath looks bright with the up-and-coming developments such as Manvers Street, South Quays, Pinesgate and many more coming through. These developments provide an exciting opportunity for expanding businesses to remain in Bath and improve their workplace or move into the city.

Bath houses many successful businesses and will continue to do so in the future.

Images: new workplaces for Gresham, Sift Digital and CPI Books created by Interaction

www.interaction.uk.com; 01225 485 600

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 95

Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions

B AT H G E T S S ER I O US SPONSORED BY:

The success of the Big Bath City bid is a fantastic result for the club, the fans and the community

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

“I GOT TO COLLECT SNAILS IN A BUCKET IN THE GARDEN, FOR 10P A SNAIL”

BIG BATH CITY BID

IT’S A WIN WIN SITUATION Big Bath City Bid achieves its goal and secures more than £300,000 to become a community-run asset Local businesses, the community and fans have come together, shown their support for Bath City Football Club and succeeded in raising £300,000 in order to turn it into a community-owned asset, similar to that of European giants FC Barcelona. This means The Bath City FC Supporters’ Society will now take a majority stake in the club and control how it’s run.

The Big Bath City Bid was launched in August 2016 with the aim of increasing the society’s stake in the club to more than 50 per cent, making it the largest shareholder. The crowdfunding scheme reached its target two days before the deadline, and eventually raised close to £350,000.

The bid, which was backed by Manchester United legend Eric Cantona and film director Ken Loach, will put the club on a sounder financial footing. Also six new directors, who will be held accountable by the fans, will be appointed to run the club.

The changes mean the club can wipe out its debts and gain access to new finance, which will secure its medium

term future, and start planning the work for partial ground redevelopment.

“The Big Bath City Bid has been driven by a passionate group of supporters of the club and also those who believe we can make a difference via sport in the local community,” says Nick Blofeld, a former chief executive of Bath Rugby, who is due to be elected as club chairman. “We all want the best for the club and have a vision for taking Bath City FC forward as a real community asset. If we can improve performance both on and off the pitch, then this is a very exciting time.

“The effort put in by a wide group of people to get support and encourage people to buy shares has been extraordinary, and thanks must go to all those individuals, businesses and organisations who have responded by listening to us or reading about us and who have generously contributed.” www.bigbathcitybid.org.uk

We’re sure this entrepreneur isn’t tea-sing us with her first job recollections. Find out who it is on page 100

300k THE BIG NUMBER

The amount raised by individuals, businesses and organisations to secure the future of Bath City FC Find out more opposite

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 99

BUSINESS INSIDER

ONE TO WATCH

TEA LAB COMPANY We take time out (over a cuppa) with identical twins Katie Mitchell and Anna Mitchell, who shared the vision that healthy teas and great taste should go hand in hand, and together went on to found the Tea Lab Company…

Tell us a bit about your background….

Anna: We were born in Scottsdale, Arizona to adventurous parents, and from the age of seven we lived in Barbados. Our school was a brightly painted chattel house and we have fond memories of green monkeys playing amongst us at break time.

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

Katie: I wanted to take care of orphaned pandas in China.

A: Always something creative – mum called me ‘mini Picasso’ because I refused to colour within the lines.

with an intuitive connection, which makes working together a breeze.

A: Con – it’s not a 9-5 job, so it’s sometimes difficult to switch off. An episode of Friends helps though.

What plans does Tea Lab have?

We love interior design and have an older sister who is an architect, so we plan to have her on board to help us design our dream, our first store...

What was your first job?

K: Looking after our house rabbit Oreo. He lived to be 12 and had a pampered life.

A: I was allergic to Oreo, so I got to collect snails in a bucket in the garden, for 10p a snail.

What’s the best tea and biscuits combo?

K: It’s got to be Hob Nobs with our Dream Catcher rooibos, cinnamon and vanilla tea.

A: For me, it’s Brick Lane, our chai spice tea, with a shortbread or two.

What brought you to Britain?

A: We came to the UK for our high school years and university. We both studied graphic design at Loughborough University – we did try hard to go to different universities!

Are you fussy about your cups of tea at other people’s houses?

K: I do prefer loose leaf but really I am just happy they are making it for me.

How did Tea Lab come about?

K: A family passion for tea, travel and health, along with our varied cultural upbringing meant we were very open to new tastes, ideas and experimentation. Mum has a background in science education and so we collaborated!

What is it about tea that you love?

A: Its health benefits, versatility and endless creative potential.

K: Visiting tea plantations and exploring the different cultural aspects of tea drinking and introducing that in Tea Lab. What makes your business stand out from your competitors?

A: Tea Lab offers customers a full sensory experience; a no-nonsense approach to the health benefits of teas and suggests how loose leaf teas can be infused in creative, healthy, fun and unusual ways.

What are the pros and cons of working with family?

K: Pro – we are identical twins with different skills, but 100 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

It’s tea for two and two for tea with the Tea Lab Company founders and twins, Katie and Anna Mitchell

How would you make the perfect brew?

A: My perfect brew is our Rise and Shine green tea with lemon grass – it has a lovely lemony aroma to wake me up, and only takes one to two minutes at 80C. Describe your ideal Bath day.

K: A dog walk up to Alexandra Park’s viewpoint, then along the Bath skyline heading into town and rounding off the day with a twilight session and dinner at the Thermae Bath Spa. Where else do you like to eat and drink in Bath?

K: In town, it would be Colonna & Small’s, or Society Café. Evening drinks at Hall and Woodhouse on the roof or, if I fancy somewhere a bit more snug, the Opium bar near Grove Street.

Which of you is the older twin?

A: I am one minute older, and it was so close to midnight, we were almost born on different days.

www.tealab.co.uk

WE ARE IDENTICAL TWINS WITH DIFFERENT SKILLS, BUT WITH AN INTUITIVE CONNECTION

SPONSORED BY:

BUSINESS INSIDER

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC

BATH RUGBY NEWS Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters Plans your holidays with Steve and Giles

WELL TRAVELLED C the World, the independent South West travel agents, have just opened a branch in The Corridor, Bath. Travel experts Steve Giles and Julie Pymm explain, “We offer tailor made holidays based on years of experience.” www.ctheworld.co.uk

GONE FISHING

• The club’s partnership with Dyson, their title partner since July 2014, has been extended for a further two years. “Bath Rugby and Dyson have enjoyed a very strong relationship these past two seasons, one which we’re delighted to be continuing with over the coming two seasons,” says Tarquin McDonald, managing director of Bath Rugby. “Dyson have been a joy to work with, and this partnership extension serves to emphasise the value of our work together at an especially exciting time for Bath Rugby.”

Matt Banahan applauds the Dyson sponsorship news

Supplier in 2014,” says Tim Sett, Mercedes-Benz of Bath’s head of business. “As a business, we’re right behind the club in every sense and to have our logo displayed in the thick of the action on the players’ shorts is absolutely fantastic.” Matt Powell, business development director of Bath Rugby, adds, “We consider Mercedes-Benz of Bath to be very much part of the team here at Bath Rugby and their ongoing support to the Club and our players is invaluable. Mercedes-Benz is a brand that is recognised worldwide so we’re delighted to continue our successful association with them.”

Weird Fish, the always on-trend clothing store, is celebrating ten successful years in The Corridor, Bath at the end of this month. Area manager Trudi Simpson says, “Between 21–23 October we will be thanking our lovely customers with discounts and giveaways.” www.weirdfish.co.uk

SPEAK ABOUT BESPOKE Tim Wood of Tim Wood Ltd will be appearing at the NEC Birmingham 19–23 October, as an ‘Ask The Expert’ as part of the Grand Designs Live show. Tim, who specialises in bespoke kitchens, explains, “I’m joining a pool of housing experts, all offering visitors the opportunity to discuss their plans for free.” www.timwood.com

A short way to go round the Benz

• The long and the short of it is Mercedes-Benz of Bath’s partnership with Bath Rugby continues to go from strength to strength in this 2016/17 season. For the third year running, Mercedes-Benz of Bath is the club’s official vehicle supplier and its logo will appear on the players’ matchday shorts during the season to mark its status.

As part of the exclusive tie-up, the Peasedown St Johnbased retailer will display cars on The Rec Ground, and provide special offers to season ticket holders.

“We’re proud to maintain a long-standing relationship with Bath Rugby, which began several years ago but has been cemented by our appointment as Official Vehicle

For more: www.bathrugby.com

Coming fixtures: 15 October, 3pm, European Challenge Cup away game against Pau 20 October, 7.45pm, European Challenge Cup home against Bristol Rugby 30 October, 3pm, Aviva Premiership away against Exeter Chiefs

SPONSORED BY:

BUSINESS INSIDER

CHARITY SPECIAL

From left to right: Duncan Glendinning from Thoughtful Bread Company, Volunteer Centre’s David Faulkner, The Business Exchange’s Anita Jaynes, volunteer Simon Brand, Business in the Community’s Julie Poll and Lucy Beattie from Bath College

GIVING BACK Our pick of Bath’s businesses and organisations working to help the community, fundraise and support good causes Genesis Trust offer support to the vulnerable

OFFERING A LIFELINE Genesis Trust is urging local people to donate just £1 to help fund the relocation of the Lifeline Centre.

Its current drop-in centre is based in Bath Abbey, and is open five afternoons a week, helping the most vulnerable members of the community, including those with addictions, serious mental health problems and those who are sleeping rough.

Genesis CEO Paul Solly explains, “The charity needs £10,000 to ensure that the centre, which has been based in the vaults of Bath Abbey for four years, can relocate to its new home by Christmas.

“The Quakers in Bath have offered part of the Friends Meeting House to Lifeline as a new base, but over £30,000 worth of building work is needed to upgrade the building to make it usable.”

For more: www.neighbourly.com/genesistrust

READY EDDIE GO! Artizan hairdresser Eddie Ilic likes to jump to it, all in the name of charity and for his grandmother, Daphne Stonehouse.

The stylist has recently completed his second tandem skydive from 15,000 feet for Pancreatic Cancer Action, and has every intention of doing it next year, and every year.

“My nan died of pancreatic cancer 10 years ago,” explains Eddie, who has worked for the Bartlett Street salon for four years.

“I was really close to her and when she first became ill, we thought she would recover but in fact she had one of the most aggressive types of cancer. She was diagnosed on 22 June and died 19 July. I miss her every day, and doing the jumps is my way of, both celebrating her life, and also raising money for a good cause.”

For more: www.justgiving. com/fundraising/ eddieskyjump

It’s a hairraising experience for Eddie

SOUP-ER IDEA Detroit Soup, which is a concept for crowdfunding dinners that raise money for community projects, has arrived in Bath.

“It’s a simple idea,” explains Julie Poll, business connector for BANES. “You pay a small entry fee in return for a bowl of soup – and the chance to hear local people pitch ideas to help your community. While the soup is served, voting takes place and the pool of money is invested in the winning idea.

“Bath Soup Project is an opportunity to develop partnerships for local communities and businesses, and it will be exciting to hear new ideas.”

The first event takes place 3 November at The Shrubbery Restaurant at Bath City College at 6pm. Places can be reserved beforehand via www.eventbrite.com and the £5 paid on the door.

For more: www.vol-centre.org.uk

BACK OF THE NETBALL!

Sean McDonough, Megan Asquith, Paige Reed, Rachel Shaw, Eboni Beckford-Chambers, Mia Ritchie, Gemma Harwood and David Hill

Mogers Drewett, has signed an agreement to become Team Bath Netball’s education partner. The local law firm will fund a number of school workshops where members of Team Bath Netball visit local schools to run education sessions covering healthy lifestyles, nutritional hints and tips, and to practise netball skills.

“As a business we have a policy of funding local initiatives that promote

active and healthy lifestyles within the communities in which we operate, and this project is a great example of how we do that in practice,” says managing director Steven Treharne.

“Netball is a fun, inclusive sport that has a growing following, and we are sure the education programmes will be popular with the schoolchildren.”

For more: www.md-solicitors.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 103

WINNER’S PROFILE

BATH LIFE AWARDS

LEISURE & TOURISM WINNER Sponsored by

THE ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL & SPA

What did it mean to your team to win a Bath Life Award? And where is the Award now?

It was a real boost for the team to see all of their hard work and determination rewarded with this great accolade. The hotel really has been put back on the map since it was purchased by Topland in 2012, and to have this recognised with a Bath Life Award was superb. The award is now proudly displayed in our hotel reception.

We are often asked by our international guests what the ‘column’ is for, and its great to be able to explain we won it at a ceremony that celebrates all that is great about Bath.

What do you think makes The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa stand out from its competitors?

First and foremost, it is undoubtedly our unique and spectacular location of the famous Royal Crescent; it is a privilege to be situated here. Secondly, the hotel’s true sense of homeliness, which is created not only by the hotel’s beautiful décor, but also by the wonderful team.

Thirdly, I would say the one acre of tranquil gardens that we have at the hotel, as it is so rare to find in a city centre hotel.

How did you get into doing what you do?

After my A levels I went to work for Bath Rugby to gain some experience of the workplace and I realised that it was the business side of things that I really enjoyed, so I went on to study business management in the evenings at Bath College. I wrote to every hotel in Bath and started as a receptionist at Homewood Park and ended up as their operations manager. I then had two beautiful children Amelie aged five and Jack, four, and came back to the hotel industry to use the marketing skills I gained whilst studying and the hotel experience from my previous role.

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

This was our main reason for becoming headline sponsors of The Bath Life Awards, we really wanted to throw ourselves into the heart of the business community, and felt that this was a great way to do so.

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

PHOTO BY PAOLO FERLA

Marketing manager Sarah Moon may love Bali and The Maldives, but there can be no doubting her heart belongs to The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, as she explains here…

Sarah Moon, third left, is joined by Taittinger’s Kevin McKee, head concierge Mark Hanks, executive head chef David Campbell, general manager Jonathan Stapleton and Spa & Bath House manager Anette Hall

I WOULD HAVE BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER, AFTERNOON TEA AND A COCKTAIL AT THE ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL & SPA, THERE’S HONESTLY NO REASON TO LEAVE THE BUILDING

What advice would you give someone looking to go into this sector?

I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to build a career that is both diverse and dynamic - and to anyone who has a love of working with people, like I do. But I would also remind them that the hospitality industry is not for the faint hearted. It is an extremely rewarding career, but requires hard work and dedication.

Aside from your own, what is the best hotel you’ve ever stayed in?

There are so many fantastic hotels around the world but I would have to say I particularly love LUX* South Ari Atoll in the Maldives – it’s a very different offering to The Royal Crescent in one way but has the same level of second-to-none care.

Where would you go in Bath for breakfast, lunch, dinner and then a drink?

I would have breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea and a cocktail at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa of course, there’s honestly no reason to leave the building.

Where else in the world do you like?

I love Bali. I went there on honeymoon and it has to be one of the most beautiful countries I have ever visited.

Stunning beaches and amazing hospitality, they know how to treat every guest like a VIP. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

“Remember that you cannot be all things to all people”, and “Do not try to please everyone or you could end up pleasing no one.”

Any interesting celebrity guest stories?

We pride ourselves on our guest discretion, so unfortunately this is one that I cannot answer!

For more: www.royalcrescent.co.uk

On the move...

Regency Offices has moved its Bath Head Office from 2 Wood St to 3 Princes St, Bath BA1 1HL, just around the corner from the Francis Hotel.

We also operate our business address service from 3 Princes St where we have a great meeting room facility with 46 inch TV.

Av ai la bl e

no w!

SMARTY DRY CLEANING

We have added 23 Gay St & 29 Monmouth St to our portfolio of buildings and are letting these buildings on a floor by floor basis, with each floor being approx 500 sq ft. We have installed leased lines at these locations, which we can split securely between clients.

They provide internet up and down speeds of 100MB.

Need an office?

We have six offices available in Bristol at 3 Portwall Lane, BS1 6NB, just a 5 minute walk from Bristol Temple Meads Rail station.

Available from ÂŁ175 per desk per month

FREE COLLECTION DELIVERY SERVICE Subject to terms and conditions

As ever we remain the most flexible provider of office space in Bath & Bristol

Smarty, Bradford on Avon Elms Cross Shopping Centre (next door to Sainsbury’s), BA15 2AZ

Call Sharmella Kirby or Tony Williams Bath : 01225 326400 | Bristol : 0117 2034070 info@regencyoffices.com

01225 444666

01225 862964

www.smartydrycleaning.co.uk

www.smartyofbradford.co.uk

www.regencyoffices.com

Smarty, Bath 11 River Street Place, Julian Road, Bath, BA1 2RS

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

108 LIFELIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 112 II BATH CLIFTON I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

MODERN SPLENDOUR

From the 18th century, step into the 21st with Somerset Place’s Georgianmeets-contemporary maisonettes

By E V E LY N GR E E N

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 109 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 113

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

W

hen one thinks of Bath, what usually comes to mind is a serene, landmark Georgian crescent; a gently curved façade of composed, very English, grandeur. And it’s these classical proportions, golden Bath stone, iron railings, and an air of palatial elegance which you’ll find at Somerset Place. But behind the graceful and inviting veneer – which has been faithfully and expertly restored – lie 20 maisonettes, lateral apartments and complete townhouses, all offering a perfect combination of period sophistication and contemporary comforts.

Venture inside any of them and you’ll find within them, attractively proportioned living spaces with modern services and sumptuous finishes. Each of the maisonettes – of which there are still six still on the market – have been individually designed, with distinctive characters all of their own and each representing a piece of history. They are united by a shared emphasis upon luxury living and design approach that makes the most of the south-facing views over Bath, as well as the sense of scale, proportion and light that you would expect from such a prestigious address.

Just a short walk from the heart of the city, the area is a parade of majestic Grade-I listed properties on their own quiet road, and is part of the reason for Bath’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its frontage was designed

by John Eveleigh, one of Bath’s most distinguished Georgian architects, and it was built in stages between 1790 and 1820.

The first houses to be built were the central pair, which were crowned with an imposing pediment. The crescent then grew out with buildings staggered to accommodate its curve and to ensure that the gardens were parallel to the houses.

Situated near the western end of the sinuous Lansdown Crescent, a location which offers unrivalled views of the city from the south-facing slope of Lansdown Hill, there’s a choice of ground floor spaces that open onto scenic gardens and upper floor areas – serviced by dedicated lifts – with 110 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise, from top left: Beautifully appointed bedrooms; Contemporary drawing rooms look out over the city of Bath; Airy and exquisitely detailed kitchen-dining rooms; En-suite bathrooms include luxury feature baths

HOUSE NUMBERS

1,7061,858

square foot of space

3

bedrooms

£1.7M1.86M price

1

maisonette garden or roof terrace

1

dedicated concierge

their own roof terraces.

The main reception rooms of the apartments take their inspiration from the rich scale and proportion of the original Georgian townhouses. Drawing rooms look out over the city of Bath, and benefit from a wealth of natural light pouring in through the sequence of large sash windows.

Ceilings are high and the sense of proportion is welcoming, while elegant skirting boards and cornicing add to the period-meets-contemporary feel of the main living spaces.

Statement marble fireplaces lend a focal point to the sitting rooms, while broad oak floorboards add warm textures and a timeless sense of sophistication.

The more contemporary character of the apartments is best expressed through the intelligent design of the generously proportioned, airy and exquisitely detailed kitchen-dining rooms, which recognise the preference for more informal and adaptable spaces for cooking, eating and entertaining. Oak floors contrast with the lacquered finish of Italian-made units and the kitchen islands, all defined by clean lines and modern symmetry.

Continuing the theme of sophisticated luxury, the beautifully appointed master suites are alluring private retreats, full of warmth and character. You’ll find substantial provisions of wardrobes and storage and an easy flow through to the en-suite bathrooms which include feature baths and walk-in showers.

When it comes to the finishing touches to this perfect picture, one understated feature of the crescent is the wide pavement that spans its length, separating the houses from the road, and the only traffic coming and going is that of the neighbours as it’s a no-through road, helping to create a sense of privacy. Private parking is also available as Somerset Place is served by a dedicated concierge – could anyone want for more?

Savills Bath, Edgar House, 17 George Street, Bath, BA1 2EN; 01225 474 500; www.savills.co.uk

Wine Street, Bradford-on-Avon. Guide Price ÂŁ600,000 An attractive period home with character, views, pretty garden & parking in popular Wine Street. This semi-detached character home would seem to tick all the boxes for the discerning BOA house hunter. Wine Street is a sought after location & the elevated position ensures views to the south and west out of town. There is attractive accommodation especially on the ground floor. The kitchen dining room will surely be the heart of the home, an ideal space for gathering with friends & family to cook, eat, drink, chat

or while away the time with the views for company. The sitting room is more formal & boasts a handsome fireplace. The study also has a sweet little fireplace this time with a wood burner to ward off the winter chill. Unusually there is a utility and cloakroom too.

Upstairs are three bedrooms and a well-proportioned bathroom; all three bedrooms enjoy the views and two have fireplaces. The pretty gardens are designed to be low maintenance and bask in a sunny south west aspect. There is a garage & good driveway parking.

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

DON’T MISS OUT! STAMP DUTY PAID ON

STUNNING PENTHOUSE APARTMENTS...

P R O P E R T Y ad v ertisin g feature

BATH COUPLE’S SMOOTH MOVE TO NEW LIFESTYLE DOWN BY THE RIVER With their children all grown up and moved out of the family home, the catalyst was provided for one Bath couple to consider a fresh start and buy somewhere that better suited their lifestyle

A

lthough the decision to move was a difficult one for Paddy and Elizabeth Doyle, having lived in their Widcombe home for 23 years, ongoing maintenance of the property and a garden that needed constant attention were factors that made them look at more modern properties.

An additional factor to move on was the fact that the couple lived on top of the big hill in the popular part of Bath, as they wanted a slightly easier walk to enjoy all the attractions that the world heritage city has to offer.

It’s resulted in the Doyles buying a brand new, four-bedroom, four-storey townhouse at Bath Riverside, Crest Nicholson’s flagship development on the banks of the River Avon.

Their new home forms part of the Elizabeth Parade phase, where the couple are now making the most of the ease at which they can walk into Bath and fact that they’re not having to spend an inordinate amount of time tending a garden!

Paddy Doyle says, “We’ve been well aware of Bath Riverside ever since work started. We also know some friends who have also moved here so were naturally interested to take a look once we decided that it was time for a move.

“The fact that the development provides a level walk into the city was an important factor in our decision to buy here as we enjoy making the most of Bath’s many attractions.

“Plus, for once, the chance to move into

“We’d recommend others who are considering moving to look at Bath Riverside”

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

Paddy and Elizabeth Doyle are extremely happy with their new home

something new was an exciting prospect.”

Having looked at the plans the couple set their sights on Elizabeth Parade, a phase which directly overlooks the river. They also took advantage of using Crest Nicholson’s Smooth Move package.

Perfect for those who want to take out the stresses and strains normally associated with selling property, using Smooth Move helped secure their property of choice.

Paddy adds, “We were pleasantly surprised by the size of the property and had no problems getting all our belongings in. We’d recommend others who are considering moving to look at Bath Riverside.”

Mary Timlin, sales and marketing director explains, “Using Smooth Move not only helps secure a brand new property but gets people into their new home with the minimum of fuss while removing the stress of moving house.

“It’s a great way to secure the home of your dreams and makes the whole process of selling and buying so much easier.”

Savills Bath Edgar House, 17 George Street, Bath, Somerset BA1 2EN 01225 474591; GHarling@savills.com www.savills.co.uk

Red Lion Quarry Frome Road, Odd Down, Bath £365,000 Price Guide ‘ONLY THREE REMAINING’ third & final phase of this exclusive tucked away brand new development by local developers Crossman Homes situated on the South western corner of Bath.

A choice of five ‘south facing units’ (TWO NOW RESERVED!) Four beds (including GF study/ bed 4), large kitchen/diner & elegant FF living room. Generous & stylish interiors with modern bathrooms & en-suite shower room to master.

Pkg to front & split level garden to rear. Build completion November 2016.

Broad Street, Staple Hill, Bristol Prices from £176,950 JUST RELEASED! Choice of apartments in an elegant newly built four storey building situated just off this bustling high street in north eastern Bristol between Downend & Fishponds.

Choice of seven properties situated on the first & second floors. Each comprising two beds, bathroom & living room with fitted kitchenette, DG, Gas CH & allocated pkg space plus attractive balconies to rear units. Excellent access to transport links & Bristol city centre. Ideal for FTB’s or investors. Prices from £176,950 to £189,950. THREE RESERVED ALREADY.

T: 01225 471116 crossmanhomes.co.uk

Woodford, Berkeley, South Gloucestershire Prices from £515,000 COMING SOON! Four brand new contemporary styled detached barn type houses in this exclusive development of six elegant professional homes within five miles of Thornbury.

Four beds (with en-suites to master & guest rooms). Spacious dual aspect living room, dining room, stunning fitted kitchen/breakfast room & separate utility. Vaulted ceilings to FF. Bold, confident yet reassuringly traditional.

Now under construction build completion Spring 2017.

T: 01225 325857

timbennettandassociates.co.uk

Completely restore your cast iron or pressed steel bath to its former glory Cost Effective bath restoration & renovation Resurfacing We are able to completely resurface metal baths Scratch & Abrasion Repairs on acrylic baths & shower trays Chemical Cleaning remove lime scale from the top surface of your bath, basin or WC 18 years experience, covers the South West

Corinium Bath Renovations 01285 658615 Cirencester info@coriniumbathrenovations.co.uk www.coriniumbathrenovations.co.uk

DOVETAIL PROPERTIES GO TO GREAT LENGTHS TO FIND THE RIGHT PROPERTIES FOR TENANTS AND THE RIGHT TENANTS FOR LANDLORDS.

• Independent Lettings and Investment Specialist Based in the Heart of the City • Sarah Dedakis – Fellow Member of ARLA (Association of Residential Letting Agents) • Committed to providing a personable and tailored service

“This was the fourth time we rented an accommodation in UK and undoubtedly you were better than all the other agents we dealt with. Prompt and professional. Best wishes to you all and your company!” Debjyoti Paul, Tenant

As an ARLA licensed member we are qualified and compliant for the reassurance of our clients and tenants alike.

9 Margaret's Buildings, Bath BA1 2LP 01225 446399 www.dovetailproperties.co.uk

a d v ertising feat u re p r o p e r t y

BATH PENTHOUSES QUALIFY FOR HELP TO BUY

Beautiful, city centre penthouses aren't just the preserve of the rich, the famous and the high-rollers...

H

ouse hunters in Bath wanting a modern penthouse might be interested to know that a selection of brand new top floor pads are currently available in the city which qualify for the government’s Help to Buy initiative.

It means those wanting to take in the rooftops, parks and distinctive Georgian architecture that have made Bath famous across the world, will be able to do so without having to break the bank.

News on the availability of these luxurious penthouses comes from Crest Nicholson’s Bath Riverside, the impressive new development located on the south banks of the River Avon and in close proximity to the city centre.

Priced from £525,000 they come in well under the upper Help to Buy limit of £600,000.

It means those interested will now be able to get the keys to a whole new way of life with just a five per cent deposit and mortgage of 75 per cent.

The remaining 20 per cent of property’s value comes in the form the equity loan from the government that has no charges or loan fees for the first five years.

For the property priced at £525,000 it equates to a deposit of £26,250 and mortgage of £393,750. The Help to Buy loan will then come in at £105,000.

Christine Hamilton, sales advisor at Crest Nicholson says, “This is great news for those considering a move to a top floor apartment.

“When it was launched it seemed that house hunters weren’t too sure on how the scheme worked, particularly the equity loan element, so were a bit reluctant to use it.

“Since then however, those looking to move can now see that buying a new property under the scheme makes a lot of sense.”

“a stunning collection of top floor properties” With spacious and airy lounge/dining area symbolises what penthouse living is all about, while the space is flooded with natural light helped by the floor to ceiling windows that also provide one of the best panoramic views anywhere in Bath.

The decked terrace is also a fantastic place to enjoy the views further while soaking up the sun or enjoying a bit of al fresco dining.

Christine adds, “Living in a penthouse apartment is all about the lifestyle and anyone wanting to make the most of what Bath has to offer while enjoying all the trappings a penthouse apartment can bring should get in touch.

“Once here house hunters will be taken up to the top floor where they will be able to appreciate the high quality finish, views and location of the development.

“The penthouses are a stunning collection of top floor properties that are unlike anything else available in the whole of Bath.

“Help to Buy has opened up the development for more people and is great news for those wanting a penthouse in close proximity to Bath city centre.”

For further information please call 01225 463 517 or visit www.crestnicholson.com/bathriverside The marketing suite on Victoria Bridge Road is open daily from 10am to 5pm

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 119

SERVICES GUIDE

Luxury & local

GUIDE to SERVICES

The most sophisticated audience is just a call away

✆ 01225 475800

in the

ROOFING

CITY TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL THE BATH LIFE TEAM ON 01225 475800

2

d 197

lishe

Estab

D R Vowles & Son Ltd are highly reputable roofing contractors based in Bath, Somerset. We provide premier roofing services for residential, commercial and industrial clients with properties throughout the south west.

For more information please call Liz today

01225 425232

Upper Weston Farm, Weston, BATH BA1 4HL

drvowlesandson.co.uk GARDENING

Richard Brook POND & AQUATIC SYSTEMS

DESIGN � CONSTRUCTION CLEANING MAINTENANCE BLANKET WEED SOLUTIONS AND MORE T: 07834 973945 E: richard.brook9@btinternet.com

WWW.PONDANDAQUATICSYSTEMS.CO.UK JEWELLERY

To advertise here call ✆ 01225 475800

Nigel Dando WE BUY Gold, Silver & Platinum in any form or condition.

Nigel Dando 11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AY Tel/Fax: 01225 464013 www.nigeldando.co.uk

STONE SPECIALISTS

Repairs, Restoration Alteration of Stone Buildings New Build Stone Cleaning Stone Carving Fireplaces

Tel: 01225 462688 / 07968 697091 Email: Julian@bathstonemasons.co.uk

www.bathstonemasons.co.uk

B AT H L I V E S

Q&A

I

ndependent television and hi-fi retailer Moss of Bath, which specialises in bespoke home entertainment systems, has been running in the city for more than five decades. We catch up with Tim Moss, its managing director, who tells us about his life and work in the city…

Moss of Bath is still going strong after 54 years, what’s your background in the business?

I left school at 16 and went straight to working full time with my father at the original Moss of Bath shop in Combe Down. I studied carpentry and cabinet making at Bath Tech, skills which have often come in useful. Later I returned to college to complete a marketing diploma. I feel immensely proud, as a second generation family business, that I have successfully driven the business forward and that Moss of Bath is still going strong after all these years. I still enjoy the buzz of a busy shop and I genuinely love meeting and talking to customers.

What are the best and most challenging bits of the job?

The diversity is the answer to both! On any one day I could be in wellies wearing hi vis workwear up a ladder and on a building site, and the next day, suited and booted for a client meeting.

Where do you call home and what are the pleasures of living in Bath?

I’ve lived in Bath all my life. I’m an authentic ‘Bath Bun’. Born in the RUH, I went to Weston All Saints and Culverhay school and now live in Monkton Farleigh with my wife Annie. We have two children, Laura and Fin, and a labradoodle called Murphy. Bath is a truly beautiful, unique and vibrant city. I never tire of it.

What are your favourite shops, restaurants and bars in the city?

I endeavour to support the many independent retailers and eateries in Bath wherever possible.

So, in no particular order: Mr B’s for a good book, Society Café for a great coffee; Picnic Coffee for a sublime bacon buttie; Allium for a perfect business lunch; Nicholas Wylde for something sparkly; The Whole Bagel for...a whole bagel; The Marmalade House for hand-painted furniture; Loake for exceptional shoes and Found for my socks. To be honest, I could go on; we are blessed to have so many superb indie businesses in our city.

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

TIM MOSS The managing director of Moss of Bath talks indie businesses, walking his daughter down the aisle and his secret fascination with trees...

Share a favourite view…

The one from Brown’s Folly looking towards Bath, particularly on a cold and crisp morning with an early mist nestled in the valley. Kingsmead Square is also a great place to just sit and people-watch.

What’s your most treasured possession?

I‘ve never really been into possessions’, but it would be an old carpentry tool kit inherited from my grandfather.

be as supportive as possible to local, independent businesses.

How do you like to spend a day off?

I enjoy painting with watercolours, although I’m exceedingly average. Local artist Steve Hall is an excellent tutor and runs workshops and courses nearby.

What are your biggest achievements professionally?

Each one of the many local and national business awards that Moss of Bath have received feels like an enormous pat on the back and are hugely motivating for the whole team.

What would you change about Bath if you owned it for a day?

I would start by creating more traffic-free areas around the city especially in Milsom Street, Kingsmead Square, Queen Square and Bog Island. This would hopefully provide a more pleasant pedestrian experience; an opportunity for cafés and bars to serve outside and for new street food start-ups. Also, in an effort to revitalise the underused River Avon, I would establish river taxis from the Newbridge Park & Ride, Batheaston and the new Nicholson waterfront housing development, to provide tourist and locals alike an alternative route into the centre.

How about personal moments?

Having both of my children, obviously. Walking Laura down the aisle at her wedding two years ago which, by the way, we organised to

www.mossofbath.co.uk

Surprise us…

I have a fascination with trees. I would like to be able to identify every native species. I even have an app on my phone that recognises leaves.

your local Villeroy & Boch stockists 5 The Shambles, Bradford on Avon BA15 1JS | 01225 309110 www.bathroomsatno5.co.uk