Bath Life – issue 326

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 326 / 11 – 25 NOVEMBER 2016 / £3

@BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

FIVE A DAY ISSUE 326 / 11 – 25 NOVEMBER 2016 / IN GOOD TASTE

DISCOVER THE CITY’S VEGAN HOTSPOTS

BEAUTIFUL

BLENDS MEET THE SPECIALIST MAKERS AND SERVERS IN BATH

SNUGGLE UP

YOUR WINTER FASHION FASHION FIX

PRE-THEATRE FEASTS AT THE GARRICK’S HEAD

PANTONE PALETTE

THE WARM EXOTIC SHADE TO LOVE

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 326 / 11 – 25 NOVEMBER 2016

All in good taste

37

DRINK UP

Get to know the city’s new bars, well-established breweries and its most surprising cocktail concoctions

Whether it’s a glamorous bar that’s on the cusp of opening in the city, or a well-established nano brewery which is trying something new (think habanero chilliinfused ales and liquid black forest gateaux flavours), we’ve visited a huge selection in this issue to make your tipple adventuring easier. As the fiercely independent drinks scene takes another great leap forward, turn to page 37 and find out which hotspot has a lobster bisque cocktail garnished with a raw prawn on its menu, what bar owner likens his business to an “old, haunted, dusty mansion”, and who’s bringing a little punk to the world of wine. We’ve also tracked down a handful of other specialists in Bath to chat about their tasting nights, cocktail masterclasses and why ye olde mead is back in fashion.

Talking about tastes that are on trend, as it’s World Vegan Month, we sneak a peek at the ever more conspicuous meat-free culture in Bath, and are surprised by what we find (page 78). There is an abundance of restaurants, cafés, takeaways and shops covering plant-based cuisines from Indian and Italian, right through to Nepalese, and the overriding conclusion amongst the folks we asked was that it’s easier than ever to make explosively flavoursome vegan dishes (even carnivore Chris Staines – the executive head chef at Abbey Hotel – agrees).

As ever, there’s a lot more than that packed into this issue; we’ve got a winter fashion fix (page 94), a multitude of miniatures (page 91) and a spot of pretheatre dining (page 66) too.

Enjoy…

Lisa Evans, Editor Follow us on Twitter: @BathLifeMag Follow us on Instagram:@bathlifemag

ECCO Bath 2 Bath Street BA1 1SA 01225 311846 eccoshoesuk.com

PHOTO CREDIT: WWW.BIBICO.CO.UK

FEATURES / ISSUE 326 / 11 – 25 NOVEMBER 2016

94

FASHION

Gentle silhouettes, soft palettes and simple shapes are wafting in and winning us over this season

130 Bath Lives

Meet Colette Dartford who knows about the science of wine making and the art of novel writing

REGULARS / ISSUE 326 / 11 – 25 NOVEMBER 2016 M E E T T H E T EAM

THE ARTS

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

47 Arts intro A look at Psyche II by Jane Emberson, part of Modern ArtBuyer’s pop up gallery

Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: David Flatman, Jennifer Jennings Wright, Nic Bottomley and Ben Franks 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

61 Bookshelf Mr B’s Nic Bottomley reviews a spine-tingling selection of the best books out now

63 Film Jennifer Jennings Wright looks at The Little’s latest film shows

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

FOOD 66 Restaurant The Garrick’s Head is ahead of the game for imaginative and satisfying choices

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

76 Wine time Ben Franks checks out The Chequers tasting menu

78 Restaurant We’re living on the veg with this vegan restaurant special

87 Food & drink news The Scallop Shell expands, new tenants for old pubs and The Tasting Rooms is tops

SHOPPING 91 Shopping intro Big love for little art, with Yuta Segawa’s mini ceramics

78

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.

BUSINESS

DEPARTMENTS

107 Business insider

11 18 29

News, views and interviews from the region’s professionals

PROPERT Y

92 Editor’s choice

118 Property showcase

You’ll be as keen as mustard on this season’s in-shade

Take a look around the splendid West Lawn House in Rode

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 A Lavender Sour cocktail at one of Bath’s newest bars – Bar 15 at boutique hotel No.15 Great Pulteney. Image by Paolo Ferla.

Turn to page 37 for the feature

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BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES

It’s going to be a right laugh when these two come to town

It’s a royal study at the Abbey

UNIVERSITY

A CELEBRATION OF LEARNING It is 50 years since the University of Bath was granted university status in 1966 by Royal Charter, signed by Her Majesty the Queen, so it was only fitting her son Prince Edward was in town to help kick off the year-long programme of 50th anniversary events. The Earl of Wessex, who is also the university’s chancellor, joined staff, students, alumni and invited guests at Bath Abbey on 25 October and enjoyed a range of performances, music and dance, including that performed by architecture student Jasmin Reeve.

For more: www.bath.ac.uk

Jasmin dances at Bath Abbey

ENTERTAINMENT

COMIC TIMING As part of their one nighter bill, the Theatre Royal Bath is playing host to two comedy legends. First up is Russell Brand scheduled to perform his new stand up show Exposed! on 20 November, in which the controversial and charismatic comic explores the media, politics, sex, fatherhood and death. “I’ll also be asking the questions, ‘What is real? Who are we?

What is the solution? And where did this baby come from?’” says Russell, who last

performed at Theatre Royal, to a sell-out audience, in September 2012.

Then on 4 December, Ricky Gervais, who shot to fame playing David Brent in his self-penned award-winning series The Office, is live with an exclusive warm-up gig for his forthcoming tour. The Glastonburystyle demand for his tickets, which sold out in record time, was so high, the theatre’s website temporarily crashed.

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

SPOTLIGHT

FUNDRAISER

HIGHEST BIDDERS Bath Abbey will hold its first ever auction on 23 November, to support a fundraising appeal for their Footprint project.

More than 30 lots will be on offer from a whole host of contemporary artists who have donated their artworks, including Richard Burel, Lydia Corbett, Nick Cudworth and Peter Brown, while Richard Twose has offered to paint a specially commissioned private portrait for the highest bidder.

The works will go on view in the Abbey

from 21 – 23 November, prior to the auction and range from £80 to £11,000, with the most expensive lot on offer being Nick Cudworth’s Collonades I, a large oil on canvas of Bath Abbey’s famous West facade.

The Footprint project. which is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, is one the country’s most significant church project to transform the Abbey, including repair the historic building’s collapsing floor.

For more: www.bathabbey.org

Clockwise: Bath Abbey by Richard Burel; Colonnade I by Nick Cudworth; Peter Brown’s Summer Morning over Widcombe from Beechen Cliff

Chair of Bath Festivals John Cullum has announced a new multi-arts event for next year

THE ARTS

ART BEAT A brand new exciting multi-arts festival has been launched for next year, called The Bath Festival.

“Leading thinkers, writers and musicians will perform with the most gifted new talent emerging on the global stage,” explains John Cullum, chair of Bath Festivals.

“Over 11 days in May, we will be creating a more visible arts festival building on Bath’s heritage of successful music and literature festivals. The event will have an accessible and vibrant programme that embraces the wider performing arts, with broad appeal for our city, both engaging the wider community and our valued visitors.”

Activities for the new flagship city celebration will include a Festival Village, with pop-up performances and free music.

For more: www.bathfestivals.org.uk 12 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Adventures in party-going

Duncan and Philippa Nash

SCENE

www.morganbrinkhurstconsultancy.co.uk

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

Owen Mason and Rachel Hotham

LUCKY SEVENT Y Independent solicitors Mowbray Woodwards celebrated their 70th anniversary at The Holburne Museum Garden CafĂŠ on 6 October.

Along with a toast from Guy Woodward whose father started the firm originally, guests enjoyed music from string quartet Arcosanti Music, and canapĂŠs from The Abbey Hotel.

Photos by Peter Travers www.petertravers.co.uk

Patrick Mears, Cecil Weir and Neil Vinnicombe Ian Lloyd, David Whitworth and Dave Powell

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

Gemma Buxton, Jo Stevens and Sophie Brooks

Hemin Woodward, Tracey Smith and Max Woodward

Jennifer Clarke, Elizabeth Metcalfe, Samantha Taylor and Carol Lynch Simon Calvert-Jones, Guy Woodward, Angela Calvert-Jones and Irene Woodward

SOCIETY www.morganbrinkhurstconsultancy.co.uk

GOODNESS SAKE

Susumu Kayashima, Paul Crossley, Iida Shinichi and Kaoru Jacques

Over 100 guests, including Iida Shinichi from the Embassy of Japan, spent an evening at The Holburne Museum, Bath,$ last month to help celebrate World Sake Day. The event, hosted by VisitBath in association with Bath Beppu Friendship Association, had seven samples of sake available to taste including sparkling and plum.

Photos by Paola Ferla www.ferlapaolo.com

Negako Mereweather

David James and Yoshitake Rie Harriet Dahan-Bouchard and Zoe Raftopoulou

Scarlett Young and Alex Daniels

Seiko Masuda

Louise Hurst and Mark Bishop 20 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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

SOCIETY www.morganbrinkhurstconsultancy.co.uk

OUT FOR THE COUNT

Sarah Ellis, Laura Green and Sarah Thornber

Bath-based chartered accountancy firm Monahans continued to celebrate their tenth birthday in style, when 100 guests recently attended a party at The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel to enjoy champagne, canapĂŠs and a string quartet.

Photos by Chris Wakefield www.crescent-photography.com

Jan Robertson and Simon Tombs

Angus Sheppard, Alison Holdoway and Alistair Holdoway

Marilyn Quiggin and Sandie Moore June Player and Martin Longmore

Jil Robson, Tony Morrell and Stephanie Hurst Mark Kirkman and Richard Brooks

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

Greg Ingham and Peter Hook

SOCIETY

www.morganbrinkhurstconsultancy.co.uk

ALL ABOUT THE BASS Legendary bassist Peter Hook was in town recently to promote his autobiography Substance: Inside New Order. He was interviewed

by Creative Bath’s Greg Ingham, at Christ Church, Julian Road in an event organised by Topping & Company Booksellers, about his fascinating and often controversial, musical and personal life.

Photos by Adam Carter www.adamcarterphoto.com

Anna Judson and Manon Duhamol

Sarah and Mark Chadwick

Eleanor Harris and Andrew Binnell

HELPING OUT Localgiving recently met at The Guild Co Working Hub to discuss and act upon ways to improve support for local charities in B&NES. Speakers included Marcelle Speller OBE, Julie Poll from Business in the Community, James Carlin from Localgiving and Sally Harris from Bath Welcomes Refugees.

Photos by Chris Wakefield www.crescent-photography.com

Fiona Bell, Stephen Pavelin and Penny Hay

Michelle Rochester and Sally Harris

James Carlin and Michael Auton

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

Marcelle Speller, Nicky Tew and Paul Myers

SOCIETY www.morganbrinkhurstconsultancy.co.uk

AWARD WINNING

Mitchell Thomas

A seminar on how to win a Bath Life Award was held recently at the Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel. Previous winners, Marcus Whittington of Bath Boutique Stays and John Law from the interior and garden designers Woodhouse & Law, presented their top tips and advice.

Turn to page 114 for our insider’s guide to making a successful Bath Life Award nominations.

Photos by Philip Field www.philipfield.com

Jo Stevens and Jilly Edwards

Zulekha Afzal and Celia Adams

Marcus Whittington and John Law

PICTURE PERFECT Guests filled 44AD Gallery for the opening of Catherine Beale’s solo exhibition, Body of Water, recently. The first of the two white cube rooms contained Catherine’s Bath landscapes in luminous watercolour. In the second hung recent portrait commissions.

Guests enjoyed glasses of prosecco and music from the gypsy-jazz trio Las Tordas.

Photos by George Howard www.georgehoward.photography

Mark and Michelle Charlwood, and Catherine Beale

Amanda Brown and Jane Spragg

Phil Beale, Simon Inger and David Konig Don and Jennifer Howard

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

SULIS MASONRY STONE SPECIALISTS & GENERAL BUILDERS

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

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

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

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

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A MAN’S WORLD

DAVID FLATMAN

PARTY TIME Flats is already getting a taste of the upcoming party season, and he’s feeling excited for the next Bath Life Awards…

L

ast week I boarded the train from Bath to travel, as I do most weeks, to host a swanky little event in London. The venue was the Gherkin building and the views, had it not been night time, would have been impressive. Now, I’m not part of the swankiness, in truth, I’m more a witness to it as I work to make the event flow.

Though I do very much enjoy this role, most of these evenings blend into one Merlot-scented, tight-collared, raucous blur in my mind, such is their general similarity.

This one, though, was different. I once held an event of my own in London and, rather than just inviting rich people whose business cards I’d cynically collected over the years (though I did invite them - I’m not silly), I invited some of my favourite people from Bath. As I sent their invites, I joked that this offer was there to give them all a chance to leave BA1 and BA2 for once and that a day in the big city would be thoroughly exciting for them all. The truth was that I wanted, on what was a big day for me, to be surrounded by people I liked and loved in order that my laughs would be genuine, not corporate, and also so that when we hit the town that night I could buy rounds of cider, not champagne.

This Gherkin event was definitely swanky. It was a benefit dinner for two charities put on by Gethin Jenkins, the legendary Welsh rugby player. There was some big wedge in the room, which came in handy when I began the charity auction, but they weren’t just men in suits. They were Gethin’s mates. His favourite drinking buddies

were also in attendance (I think I might have qualified for this elite crew by three o’clock the next morning), as well as folks he’d met along the way and who had helped him, or been kind to him in some way. This wasn’t a guest list compiled solely on financial clout, but with thanks and celebration as themes, and it was uniquely fabulous.

There were tarmacers there, and a bloke from Melksham who played five-a-side with Gethin as a kid. The chaps from Brogue Trader in Cardiff (and Bath) were there, and everyone who works there is simply excellent company, especially as today becomes tomorrow. I saw the next morning that a new appointment had been added to my phone’s calendar for next week: ‘Collect new shoes.’ Oh dear, I wonder how many pairs I ordered...

In short, it was a great night that served two lovely functions: selfishly, it added some variety to my working life that I hadn’t known I’d needed, and it also made me look forward more than ever to the next Bath Life Awards. I attend so many big lunches and dinners (I know, my slender figure remains a miracle) that it would seem reasonable to feel less than excited by more of the same. But there’s something special about laughing, drinking, and embarrassing yourself in front of people whose company you cherish. The views from The Assembly Rooms are crap, but the same could be said of the Gherkin by night, to be frank. I bet we can beat 3am, though...

BUT THERE’S SOMETHING SPECIAL ABOUT LAUGHING, DRINKING, AND EMBARRASSING YOURSELF IN FRONT OF PEOPLE WHOSE COMPANY YOU CHERISH

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

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GREAT GIFT IDEAS

LIGHTING

ENTERTAINMENT

REAL ICE RINK & SANTA’S GROTTO Lacock, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2LZ Tel: 01249 730204 Norton Lane, Whitchurch, Bristol BS14 0BT Tel: 01275 832296 www.whitehallgardencentre.co.uk

SPECIALIST

DRINKS

PHOTO BY PAOLO FERLA

The Pulteney Muse cocktail – made with tequila and dark rum – at Bar 15 in No.15 Great Pulteney boutique hotel

We tour some of the city’s best microbreweries, cocktail bars, and spirit specialists to find out what’s new in the drinks world

w

By L I SA E VA NS www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 37

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W

hether it’s below a residential home on Poet’s Corner, or inside a pub on the edge of the city centre, there are modern nano breweries and distilleries dotted all over Bath. We went to discover their distinctive, crafty offerings – from habanero chilli ale to liquid black forest gateaux stout. We also took a very sophisticated bar crawl around the best speciality drink hotspots, and visited four which are just about to open. Read on to uncover the bold, the daring and the curious – lobster bisque cocktails, anyone?

BARS AND PUBS Bar 15

www.no15greatpulteney.co.uk

The Canary Gin Bar on cobbled Queen Street, Bath

Après Ski Bar

An annual festive treat, the snow-topped, pop-up, chalet-style bar will open again on 24 November outside Abbey Hotel on North Parade, Bath.

“It offers an authentic alpine experience, with white fur throws and soft, blinking lights creating a wonderful ambient glow,” says general manager Andrew Foulkes. “You’ll find Christmas-themed cocktails, mulled specialities, plus playful madeto-share options served inside ski boot- and Christmas pudding-shaped vessels.”

Don’t miss: The return of their giant snow globe, which you can step inside. www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

The Canary Gin Bar

On Bath’s cobbled Queen Street you’ll find a veritable gin palace at the home of The Bath Gin Company. Within this remarkable Georgian building you’ll discover, over five floors, a singular and portentous gin experience. The space has a moody, artistic and playful interior, and, since opening in 2012, it now holds around 190 different gins from around the world, has two bars, a distillery and a premium gin shop.

Their favourite drink hotspots: The Dark Horse and Electric Bear Brewing Co. www.thebathgincompany.co.uk 38 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO BY PAOLO FERLA

After much anticipation, No.15 Great Pulteney boutique hotel, owned by Ian and Christa Taylor and Jonathan Walker, will open in early December. Inside you’ll find Bar 15, a “dramatic, elegant and joyfully-intriguing” space, according to Andrea Pintore, head of food and liquor, which makes a very modern statement in its classical, Georgian surrounds.

“Bar 15 is unlike any other Bath venue,” he says. “We’re serving up creative liquid libations alongside the carefully crafted classics. We have very different cocktails served in intriguing vessels, unusual wines from across the globe and a great selection of local beers and spirits.”

As for the décor of the bar, well that’s still a surprise, but expect to be wowed by gorgeous feature lighting, contemporary art, sink-into seating and plenty of talking points.

For something different, try: The Lobster Fashion cocktail – lobster bisque, vodka and infused tonic – served with a marinated raw prawn.

BAR 15 AT NO.15 GREAT PULTENEY

PINK LADY Ingredients: 40ml Sipsmith sloe gin 20ml Campari 35ml jasmine tea 20ml rhubarb syrup Method: Pour all the ingredients into a Boston tin and shake gently over ice, then double strain into a martini glass.

PHOTO BY EMILY COLES

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The Dark Horse

“It’s like the old, haunted, dusty mansion of your eccentric and well-travelled uncle who has a weird squint when he smokes his pipe.” That’s how Louis Lewis-Smith describes his pub on Kingsmead Square in which most of the furniture is from his own flat or from local antique dealers.

“The bar and its collection of rarities is constantly evolving,” he adds of the ‘friendly, unpretentious and grown-up’ space. Drawing on the authentic vibes, they also make all their own syrups, cordials, shrubs and clear ice blocks and always use local ingredients.

Did you know: The bar was built by Louis’ own hands over 102 consecutive days. During that time, he calculates he drank 408 cans of cider.

Louis’ top drinking spots: King William, The Garrick’s Head and The Bell Inn www.darkhorsebar.co.uk

St James Wine Vaults

Jennifer Rice serving at the eclectic St James Wine Vaults on St James Street, Bath

It’s been a watering hole since around 1793 and now revolves around landlord Neil Whiting’s vision: a traditional, friendly pub at the heart of Bath’s community which encompasses his love of music, art and wine. “It’s a vibrant pub offering a warm welcome to everyone who passes over our threshold,” he says. “A place where people can enjoy the cosy environment and take in the décor of musical instruments and Beatles memorabilia.

It offers The Cellar for musicians and The Gallery for artists to show their work, poetry or theatre.”

Did you know: Their weekly pub quiz has raised over £70,000 for local causes.

For something different, try: The warming Glenrothes malt whisky, which combines oaky vanilla and ripe black cherries. www.stjameswinevaults.co.uk

IT’S LIKE THE OLD, HAUNTED,

DUSTY MANSION OF YOUR ECCENTRIC AND WELLTRAVELLED

UNCLE

DRINKS

CHAMPAGNE AND COCKTAIL BARS The Copper Bar

At the 18th century Combe Grove hotel on Bath’s Brassknocker Hill, you’ll find the The Copper Bar. It launched in the summer and is described by bar manager Shane Turner as ‘a beacon of style and design’.“It’s rather special,” he adds. “It has a shiny copper bar top, stunning views over the Limpley Stoke valley, wow-factor cocktails and delicious food from chef Leigh Evans.” With the aim of making their drinks menu extra special, the staff make their own bitters, liqueurs, cordials, vermouth and gin. They also have a dedicated martini menu, velvet upholstery and myriad taxidermy and contemporary art to gaze at.

Flavour of the moment: A hot buttered rum or a basil daiquiri.

Don’t miss: Monthly live music sessions including Christmas carol singing on 21 December. www.combegrove.com

The Montagu Bar

Inside the AA, 5 Red Star-status Royal Crescent

The ArtBar and Après Ski Bar at Abbey Hotel on North Parade

Hotel you’ll find The Montagu Bar & Champagne Lounge which has a calming décor and a relaxing yet social ambience.

“We offer pretty much any drink that you could desire, from wines and champagnes to cocktails,” says master mixologist Orlando Garcia. “Guests can also draw on the expertise of our expert head sommelier to find out all that there is to know.”

They recommend: The martini flight, which consists of three Grey Goose cocktails. www.royalcrescent.co.uk

ArtBar

The first thing you’ll probably notice about the Abbey Hotel’s ArtBar is its bespoke, design-led space with walls of modern artwork and a chandelier-style installation formed of classic cocktail glasses. But you’ll quickly become interested in their drinks menu too, which includes over 25 cocktail styles, 20 gins and 66 other spirits.

One to try: The Umeshu Brace cocktail, with plum bitters, brandy, brown sugar and champagne. www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

Sub 13 Bar

“We opened with the aim of bringing Londonstyle cocktails to our home city,” says owner Alex Miller. “Since then we’ve evolved into a destination for drinks and partying, regularly welcoming thousands every week.”

It’s a basement bar on Edgar Buildings, so think subdued lighting, candlelight, leather seating and exposed Bath stone. There’s also a fully-heated terrace which can be enjoyed all year round.

One to try: A Hazelnut Russian, a twist on the White Russian using hazelnut liqueurs.

Their other favourite bar: “The Common Room, worthy winners of a Bath Life award last year.” www.sub13.net

Roman Baths Kitchen

Tucked between the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey with unrivalled views of the architecture, the champagne, cocktail and coffee bar inside the converted Georgian townhouse, is a great spot in which to watch the world go by according to w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 39

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restaurant manager Jon Wilson. “It also boasts a large terrace unlike any other in town,” he says.

They’ve recently launched a new cosmopolitan lounge bar in one of their private dining rooms, too, which will provide “more space for drinks or a private bar for celebrations.” On top of that you’ll find cocktail masterclasses for groups of 10 or more.

Did you know: They stock their very own Searcys wine and champagne which is blended and bottled exclusively by Searcys sommeliers.

They recommend: Cinnamon and pear bellinis or winter fruit mojitos. www.romanbathssearcys.co.uk

Circo

PHOTO BY EMILY COLES

After five years on South Parade, Circo was moved to George Street in April. With a modern feel and a cool, relaxed vibe, Circo specialises in handcrafted cocktails – our favourites being the mint chocolate martini or the caramel swizzle.

“It’s a great place to unwind with hidden little seating areas, artwork and a real fire,” says general manager Paul Newson. “No one needs to rush to free up a seat as our cocktails are best enjoyed when sipped and savoured.”

Don’t miss: The acoustic nights on Tuesdays and the Cuban nights every Wednesday.

Their other favourite hangouts: Vino Vino, Confessional Bar and Juno.

You’ll find Harry’s beers at The Royal Crescent Hotel and at Green Park Station’s Wolf Wines and Bath Pizza Company.

Did you know: “We’ve taken a literary angle on our beers, our two core brews are called Paradise Lost and The Tempest.”

Harry’s favourite drink hotspots: Independent Spirit and Chapter One.

www.circobar.co.uk

BREWERIES

Albion Brewing Company

The independent, modern brewery, which started in April this year in Poet’s Corner, Bath, specialises in producing small batches of beer for the local market. “Being so small gives us the chance to be flexible and very creative,” says owner Harry Speller. “Our beers tend to be a fusion of different styles from around the world.”

www.albionbrewing.co.uk

Kettlesmith Brewing Company

The microbrewery, based in Bradford on Avon, started up earlier this year and aims to create an ‘explorative and artistic’ range of beers in cask, keg and bottle for local pubs, restaurants and shops including Bath’s The Griffin Inn, The Raven and Gascoyne place.

Owners Antony and Caroline Field originally intended to open a brewery in California where they lived for 12 years but ended up moving back to the UK. “We believe beer deserves a place at the dinner table and should be taken as seriously as wine when pairing with food,” says Antony.

One to try: ‘Recline’ – a beer that has dark Belgian candy and molasses in it.

What’s new: “We’ve started holding monthly open days where people can visit the brewery and drink on site.

Above: dramatic cocktail-making at Roman Baths Kitchen; below, left: owners of Kettlesmith Brewing Company Antony and Caroline Field

CIRCO

THE SLOE SOUTHSIDE Ingredients: 25ml Sipsmith Sloe Gin 25ml Chambord 20ml lime juice 10ml sugar syrup Mint Method: Shake all ingredients and serve together in a martini glass with a mint leaf garnish.

www.kettlesmithbrewing.com

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

The contemporary microbrewer’s story began last year when owners Chris and Jacqueline Lewis found the space on Brassmill Lane, Newbridge, where they went on to build their brewery. “At the time, we were one of Bath’s first craft beer breweries, and we are still the largest brewery based in Bath,” says Chris. “It’s found its way into the hearts of the locals who love to stop by the w

PHOTO BY PAOLO FERLA

PHOTO BY AARON PARSONS

Electric Bear Brewing Co.

SPECIALIST

taproom on a weekend to sample beers direct from the source and fill up their growlers.”

Their most popular brew to date is the Cherry Blackout – a chocolate-cherry stout that they describe as liquid black forest gateaux.

Favourite drinks spots: “Fire and Brew, opening this month in the old Giant Party Shop.

We’ll be showcasing our own products there soon.” www.electricbearbrewing.com

James Street Brewery

General manager Lucas Van Rensburg deems the brewery located at The Bath Brew House to be the pub’s unique selling point. The space was previously known as The Metropolitan before being renovated and redesigned in 2013, the layout incorporating a fully functioning micro brewery. “There aren’t many brew pubs around and we offer people the chance to see how beer is made,” he says. “Our brewery is glass-fronted so you can see the equipment on display and on brew days you can see exactly what is going on.”

They recommend: A rich porter called Ostiarius with chocolate and coffee notes.

Did you know: Since opening, they’ve served nearly 800 different beer types.

Chapter One

This fiercely independent freehouse, owned by Michael and Emma Heap, took over the London Road pub, which was formerly known as The Hive, last December. The owners’ primary passion is beer, so, naturally, that’s at the heart of the pub.

The focal point is their digital tap list (the only screen in the building) where the constantly rotating list of mainly local craft beers on tap are boldly featured.

Their favourite drinks spots: Hunter & Sons and Bath based nano-brewery Hubris Id. www.chapteronebath.co.uk

The Tasting Room

At the specialist merchants, owned by Will Baber, you’ll find boutique and high quality wines and spirits from around the world, as well as an extensive tasting programme. They originally opened in 2002, importing directly from the wine growers and selling solely to hotels and restaurants around the country. They then opened a shop in 2004 and relocated to Green Street in 2011, where they still reside. The space is essentially a shop in which you can sit and w

THE COPPER BAR AT COMBE GROVE

DARK MANHATTAN Ingredients: Ice 50ml whisky 25ml amaro 25 ml cognac 1-2 dashes of orange bitters Twist of orange peel Method: Place the ice in a cocktail shaker, add the whisky, amaro, cognac and bitters. Strain the drink into a glass, adding the peel to serve.

PHOTO BY JESPER MATTIAS

www.thebathbrewhouse.com

WINE, BEER AND SPIRIT SPECIALISTS PHOTO BY PAOLO FERLA

DRINKS

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

SPECIALIST

DRINKS Head brewster, Anna Schwaeble at James Street Brewery, Bath

THERE AREN’’T MANY BREW PUBS AROUND AND WE OFFER PEOPLE THE CHANCE TO SEE HOW BEER IS

MADE

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 43

DRINKS

SPECIALIST

Hunter & Sons

“Our concept is to serve speciality coffee and craft beer in a unique environment,” explains owner James Hunter. “It’s not like going down the pub but is not quite sitting in a sleepy café. Beer and coffee are products that are generally seen as commodities. When you start to pick apart the processes involved, it’s easy to see where quality can be improved along the chain. We embrace roasters and brewers that strive to do just that.”

Their building in Milsom Place is flooded with natural light and is minimalist, yet interesting, in its design.

Flavours of the month: Mead – an old style of honey wine – on tap; and an IPA brewed with habanero chilli.

A favourite drinking spot: Corkage.

ARTBAR AT ABBEY HOTEL

THE WHITLEY NEIL CLASSIC Ingredients: 50ml Whitley Neil gin Fever Tree tonic to taste 1 physalis A few juniper berries 1 cinnamon stick Method: Add the gin to a large glass, followed by the tonic. To serve, add the fruits and spices to enhance the distinctive flavours of the gin.

www.hunter-sons.co.uk

Specialising mainly in whiskeys – with over 100 different types from across the globe – this new cosy bar, which is situated on Bath’s Lilliput Court and is set to open this month, is a classic and debonair venue where “patrons can ask questions, try new things and make friends,” says manager Callum Rixson.

As for the look, think smoking room within one of Bath’s iconic vault structures, exposed Bath stone, vintage whisky advertisements and some taxidermy for good measure.

Callum Siddons, head barman at Circo, Bath

drink in amongst the stock.

Flavour of the moment: Full-bodied reds such as the Northern Italian Amarone, and rich, fruity white ports. www.tastingroom.co.uk

Wolf Wine

“A customer once said we were bringing a little punk to the world of wine,” says owner Samuel Shaw. “I like that analogy. We’re all about breaking with traditions. We’re a wine shop that champions small production, craft wine from all over the world – from natural Prosecco and Czech wines, to an Austrian orange wine – that don’t necessarily adhere to the rules and regulations.”

Sam aims to both, bring people wines from grapes and regions that they may never have heard of before, and to help people step out of their comfort zones.

For a winter warmer, try: “The stonking big red, The Boxer – pure fruity decadence.”

Laurie Ketchen, manager at Independent Spirit on Terrace Walk

www.wolfwine.co.uk

From cocktail masterclasses and regular tasting events to specialist single malts from independent bottlers, over 350 craft beers from all around the world, lots of rum and a wall of gin, there’s a lot to discover at the shop on Terrace Walk.

The three words that Chris Scullion, who owns the business with Christian Morrish, would use to describe it are: ‘personable’ and ‘expert’, which makes sense as the staff are all former bartenders who specialise in different fields.

For winter, they recommend: Sweet stouts, spiced rums and warming barrel-aged spirits.

For something different, try: ArtBrew’s Christmas tree beer – a beer that has a Christmas tree in it. www.independentspiritofbath.co.uk 44 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO BY EMILY COLES

Independent Spirit

PHOTO BY PAOLO FERLA

The Hideout Bar

Buy our award winning Bellringer... in a box!

36 pints of award winning Abbey Ales Bellringer for £65

FREE D E L I V E RY TO YOUR DOOR

Cocktails for the curious Comfortable and elegant, Bar 15 makes a very beautiful, very modern statement in its classical Georgian surrounds and becomes the focus of No.15 after dark. A meeting place for Bath’s fashionable society, and locals and visitors alike, we’re serving up creative liquid libations alongside the carefully-crafted classics.

No.15 Great Pulteney

Available at abbeyales.co.uk or 01225 444 437

www.no15greatpulteney.co.uk

XV

Music/theatre/film/more

PAINTED LOVE

Online art gallery and consultancy Modern ArtBuyer, run by Bath-based Jessica Lloyd-Smith, is hosting a weekend Open House Pop-up Gallery in Limpley Stoke, 26 –27 November.

It features an exciting collection of artworks by established and emerging artists from across the UK, with a number of artists from Bath and the South West including this Psyche II

by Jane Emberson who says, “The two

simple elements of shape and colour form the basis for all my work. They provide an endless source of fascination and means of self expression.”

Other works for sale include original paintings, limited edition prints and digital art, hanging in situ and ready to take away. In addition, hand-made jewellery and hand-painted silk scarves from UK-based, art-led craftsmen will be showcased.

The Modern ArtBuyer’s Open House can be viewed at Sylvan Lodge, 1 Cliffe Drive, Limpley Stoke, Bath BA2 7FY, from 26 – 27 November; www.modernartbuyer.com

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

12 November - 10 December

Mishaka Shubaly, who can count Johnny Depp amongst his fans, plays Widcombe’s Ring O Bells on 15 November; Iranian-born comedian Shappi Khorsandi addresses her love for her adopted homeland at the Wiltshire Music Centre; Horrible Histories Barmy Britain helps the past come alive with fun sketches at the Theatre Royal Bath

Exhibitions UNTIL 19 NOVEMBER

BLACK SWAN ARTS OPEN The 14th Black Swan Arts Open in Frome showcases a wealth of local and exciting talent from both established and emerging artists. Black Swan Arts; www.blackswan.org.uk.org

UNTIL 20 NOVEMBER

UNTIL 26 NOVEMBER

UNTIL 24 NOVEMBER

UNTIL 27 NOVEMBER

FALL A carefully curated collection of beautiful mixed media work to usher in the autumn, including Patricia Volk’s sculpture, jewellery from Holly Belsher, Bath-inspired clothing by Carole Waller and ceramics by Gary Wood. One Two Five Gallery; www.onetwofivegallery.co.uk

GEORGE TUTE A solo exhibition of paintings, many of which have a surreal and dreamlike aura, by Bristolbased artist George Tute, feature alongside his figurative ceramic sculptures and his commercially successful woodblock prints.

Bath Contemporary; www.bathcontemporary.com

UNTIL 19 NOVEMBER

SEBASTIÃO SALGADO Sebastião Salgado has recently completed Genesis, a profound and ambitious eight-yearphotojournalism project, which is being seen as a visual tribute to our fragile planet. Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution; www.brlsi.org

CELIA COOK This latest show from the Larkhall-based artist will feature a series of dynamic abstract woodblock monoprints, which were made at the Ink on Paper Press in Wiltshire. Adam Gallery; www.adamgallery.com

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

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 29 NOVEMBER

LYDIA CORBETT: LA DANSE DE LA VIE Coinciding with a major exhibition of portraiture by Pablo Picasso at London’s National Portrait Gallery, this exhibition shows the paintings and a selection of ceramics by one of his muses, Lydia Corbett, or Sylvette David, as she was then known, who inspired 40 of his paintings. David Simon Contemporary; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com UNTIL 30 NOVEMBER

YOU ARE WHAT YOU WEAR Nick Cudworth’s exhibition of paintings and prints centred around his collection of hats and shoes, including the humorous

W H AT ’ S O N

Carnival of Soles and Head in the Clouds. Nick Cudworth Gallery; www.nickcudworth.co.uk UNTIL 30 NOVEMBER

SUSANNA LISLE Susanna Lisle’s new paintings combine geometry and pattern as a metaphor for the experience of the natural world.

Together they reflect and evoke the rhythm and mystery of the landscape; its tangibility and elusiveness is recalled over and over again. Lane House Arts; www.lanehousearts.co.uk UNTIL 8 DECEMBER

MY KIND OF VISION This mesmorising collection of 21 new oil paintings by Ronald F. Smith, who has turned 70 this year, are his response to landscape and seascape of his travels, and is his fourth solo exhibition with the Edgar Modern. Edgar Modern; www.edgarmodern.com

UNTIL 11 DECEMBER

DAILY DELIGHTS OF GEORGIAN BATH Using Thomas Rowlandson’s famous 1798 satirical etchings, The Comforts Of Bath, as inspiration, the more decadent side of Bath is celebrated in this enjoyably different exhibition, which includes a gilted cricket cage. No. 1 Royal Crescent; www. no1royalcrescent.org.uk UNTIL 12 JANUARY 2017

SCI-ART SYNERGY Scientists have used creative works to show their research in a new light and these exciting collaborations include visual interpretations of quantum dynamics, genetics and the cosmos. Art at the Heart of the RUH; www.artatruh.org UNTIL 22 JANUARY 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. The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org UNTIL 12 FEBRUARY 2017

RED – CULTURE, HISTORY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP This exhibition explores the many different aspects of this bold primary colour in Chinese

ARTS

culture, from the materials used to produce the shade, to the symbolism of the colour, and the rapid advancement of red wares during the Ming dynasty.

Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk UNTIL 12 MARCH 2017

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 UNTIL 1 JANUARY 2019

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 huge, groundbreaking moments in history, as well as more personal stories. Fashion Museum; www.fashionmuseum.co.uk 14 – 20 NOVEMBER

FIND ANOTHER BATH This exciting exhibition also celebrates the launch of a new art book, which draws together the creative talents of some 40 local artists and writers from the city, who together present creative aspects of Bath’s often forgotten or neglected history, including our contribution to industry. 44AD; www.44ad.net

Top to bottom; Get surreal with George Tute’s exhibition at Bath Contemporary; Ronald F. Smith’s beautiful Eight Flowers is on display at Edgar Modern 3 DECEMBER – 19 FEBRUARY 2017

18 NOVEMBER – 9 JANUARY

WINTER WONDERLAND Tis the season to get arty with the Rostra Gallery, who are exhibiting a seasonally-inspired collection of affordable prints, ceramics, sculpture, jewellery and cards. Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk 19 NOVEMBER - 5 MARCH 2017

DJORDJE OZBOLT: THE GRAND DETOUR By ‘invading’ the grounds of the museum the artist creates new, works from old collections and leads us to discover exciting fresh perspectives on the past.

The Holburne; Museum; www.holburne.org

PETER BROWN: A BATH PAINTER’S TRAVELS This exhibition features over 100 new oil paintings and drawings

by Bath-based artist Peter Brown, commonly known as ‘Pete the Street’ for his habit of painting his home-city outdoors in all weathers. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Plays/Shows UNTIL 17 DECEMBER

TROUBLE IN MIND Trouble In Mind, which stars the Olivier and Evening Standard Award nominated Tanya Moodie, smartly satirises the whitedominated theatre scene of the

time, with knowing humour and richly drawn characters and £19.50. Ustinov Studio; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 14 – 19 NOVEMBER

ROCKY HORROR SHOW Bursting at the fishnet seams with timeless classics, including Sweet Transvestite, Damn it Janet, and of course, the pelvicthrusting Time Warp, Richard O’Brien’s genuinely classic Rocky Horror Show is a nonstop fun and slightly naughty party. £37.50- £15. Theatre Royal; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 16 – 19 NOVEMBER

DON’T DRESS FOR DINNER Platform 8 return to The Mission Theatre with this 

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ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

ballsy and boulevard comedy.

When Jacqueline decides to visit her mother for a few days, her husband Bernard sees an opportunity for a cosy weekend with his mistress, with disastrous results. £12.

The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk 17 NOVEMBER

JERRY SADOWITZ The comedian, magician and psychopath takes to the stage with his unique combination of comedy, card tricks, and slightly scary hatred. 8pm, £19.50.

Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 18 NOVEMBER

ANGELOS & BARRY Angelos Epithemiou and Barry From Watford come together to discuss how to succeed in business, Crimewatch, if you can claim social benefits in space, and how Ban Ki Moon once nearly lost The UN in a poker game. 8pm, £15. Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 20 NOVEMBER

RUSSELL BRAND – EXPOSED The controversial, charismatic and properly funny comic explores themes ranging from media, politics, sex, fatherhood and death. See more on page 11.

7.30pm, £27.50. Theatre Royal; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 22 & 23 NOVEMBER

RUSSELL HOWARD West country funnyman and international superstar showcases brand new material ahead of the inevitable sell-out tour. 7.30pm, £15. Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 27 NOVEMBER

SHAPPI KHORSANDI Shappi is celebrating the 40th anniversary of her arrival in Britain from Iran with a tour in which she reclaims patriotism and sends a love letter to her adopted land – all delivered with a deliciously mischievous charm. 8pm, £15. Wiltshire Music Centre, www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk

1 DECEMBER

BONBON CABARET A scintillating array of talent in a variety show format including Tina Turner Tea Lady and

That sweet transvestite from transexual Transylvania, Dr Frank N. Furter, asks if we want to do the time warp again at the Theatre Royal Bath when Richard O’Brien’s comedy and musical classic Rocky Horror Show comes to town

Marty Skiver. 8pm, £14.

Widcombe Social Club; www.widcombesocialclub.co.uk

UNTIL 19 NOVEMBER

Music

BATH MOZARTFEST Over the past 26 years Bath Mozartfest has built an enviable reputation for artistic excellence in chamber and orchestral music. In its annual nine-day, 16-concert festival, it presents the finest classical music performed by a wide variety of world-renowned, classical artists. For more information on all concerts, venues and prices, please visit www.bathmozartfest.org.uk

15 NOVEMBER

15 NOVEMBER

4 DECEMBER

RICKY GERVAIS AND GUESTS – WORK IN PROGRESS New material from the old master and The Office creator comes to Bath for one night only. See more on page 11. 7.30pm, £20. Theatre Royal; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

MISHKA SHUBALY The musician, best-selling author and storyteller calls his work a “collection of depressing, alcoholic, nihilistic songs”, while celebrity fan Johnny Depp insists Mishka is “forever a favourite – sublime!” Why don’t you go along and judge for yourselves. 8pm, £12.50. Ring O Bells; www.ringobellswidcombe.co.uk 16 NOVEMBER

THE WAVE PICTURES Fresh from touring alongside Wilko Johnson, London based trio The Wave Pictures returns with their brand new album Bamboo Diner in The Rain, a bluesy, boozy love letter to the guitar.

7pm, £12. Komedia, www.komedia.co.uk

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

SHARON SHANNON This button accordion player from Co Clare, Ireland has recorded and toured with everyone from U2’s Bono to Sinead O’Connor and Steve Earle to The Pogue’s Shane MacGowan. 8pm, £18. Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org

23 NOVEMBER

BUSCH TRIO Three international prizewinning young soloists, the Busch Trio who has emerged as one of the leading piano trios among the new generation, perform Haydn, Beethoven and Tchaikovsky. 6.30pm, £18.

Wiltshire Music Centre. www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk

24 NOVEMBER

TURIN BRAKES Considered one of the finest indie bands of the last decade, Turin Brakes have sold over a million records to date and continue their journey with this Property Tour.

7pm, £20. Komedia, www.komedia.co.uk 29 NOVEMBER

LIGHT UP A LIFE Bath Camerata donates its services once again to Dorothy House for an annual service of consolation, remembrance and reflective candlelight in Bath Abbey.

6pm, free. Bath Abbey; www.bathabbey.org

Family fun 12 NOVEMBER

HORRIBLE HISTORIES BARMY BRITAIN From battling Boudicca to grooving with Queen Victoria, taking in Dick Turpin, Henry VIII and the plague along the way, this special production of Barmy Britain, uses talented actors and stunning 3D Bogglevision, to ensure historical figures and events come alive. No wonder this has become the longest running children’s show in West End history. £24.50-£10.50.

Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 

nick cudworth gallery

COME AND MEET Frederick Augustus the cat..............at

OLD BANK ANTIQUES CENTRE 16-17 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath BA1 6AD

Tel. 01225 338813

The largest antiques retailer in Bath & voted in the top 50 antiques shops in Britain, by the Independent on Sunday

Carnival of Soles Oil on Canvas and Prints

YOU ARE WHAT YOU WEAR 1 – 30 November

A selection of paintings and prints centred around the artists collection of shoes and hats

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

No, he’s not stuffed...

Maybe even find time to look at some antiques... we’ve got everything from 17th century furniture to 1970s retro and kitchenalia, spread through lots of showrooms.

We’re on the A4, London Road, near Morrisons.

About 15 minutes walk from the bottom of Walcot Street.

We’re open 10-6 Monday to Saturday. 11-5 on Sunday.

We have our own parking at the rear, accessed via Bedford Street.

alexatmontague@aol.com / www.oldbankantiquescentre.com

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

UNTIL 2 JANUARY 2017

FESTIVAL OF LIGHT AND AN EDWARDIAN CHRISTMAS IN LONGLEAT HOUSE Throughout the festive season of 2016, Longleat will be continuing their celebrations fit for a king by hosting a display of huge lanterns. Alongside the extravagant outdoor spectacles; Longleat prestigious Elizabethan stately home will be dressed in traditional Edwardian festive décor, plus listen out for the Amazing Singing Christmas Tree. Included in general admission prices. For more details, please visit www.longleat.co.uk 18 NOVEMBER – 3 JANUARY 2017

BATH ON ICE Blade runners get ready to experience ice skating in the centre of the city when Bath’s festive outdoor real ice rink and Glow in the Dark Mini Golf return to Royal Victoria Park, along with an indoor fully-licensed bar and café. £7.25/£8.75. Royal Victoria Park; www.bathonice.com

Room in Kilver Court Designer Village. Find fine wines for dining, whisky for reclining and everything in between!

5.30pm-8pm, free. Kilver Court Designer Village; www.kilvercourt.com

24 NOVEMBER – 18 DECEMBER

18 – 19 NOVEMBER

8 DECEMBER – 15 JANUARY 2017

18 – 20 NOVEMBER

CHRISTMAS TREASURES A celebration of traditional toys and games from American history, with each of the museum’s period rooms embracing festive fun by showing a different seasonal pastime. American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org ROBIN HOOD Action packed, fast paced and fantastically funny, this year’s egg Christmas show brings to life the legend of Nottingham’s much-loved outlaw, who brings with him daring deeds, a cast of four Merry men and a female ska band. £18/£12. the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Other 17 NOVEMBER

THE GREAT HOUSE LATE NIGHT SHOPPING EVENT, WITH KILVER COURT AND BATH LIFE A special event with mulled wine, seasonal entertainment, jolly activities and great shopping offers at The Christmas

WIDCOMBE CRAFT FAIR More than fifty local makers have got together for the tenth Widcombe Craft Fair to offer cards, ceramics, jewellery, textiles and artworks in time for seasonal shopping. For more details, please visit www.widcombecraftfair.com WALCOT WINTERFEST The amazing artisans, makers and businesses of Walcot have pooled their talents and organised three days of light displays, music, open studios, scavenger hunts, delicious food and much, much more. For more details visit their page on www.facebook.com

Top to bottom: Turin Brakes bring their indie sound to Komedia 24 November; Vikki Yeates is one of the artists bringing her talents to the Widcombe Craft Fair

23 – 24 NOVEMBER 19 NOVEMBER

BATTLE OF THE SOMME COMMEMORATION In remembrance of those who served during the 141 days of the Somme, 100 years ago, this special commemoration includes a selection of readings, including one by Ben Howlett MP, and music from The Bath Male Choir.

6pm. St Michael’s Church; www.stmichaelsbath.org.uk

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

BOWOOD HOUSE CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA During the three-day special event, visitors can browse gift stalls, enjoy the Sculpture Gallery, meander through the Orangery and also take in the Robert Adam interiors and impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and tapestries. Prices start from £8.

Bowood House; www.bowood.org

24 NOVEMBER – 11 DECEMBER

BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET With over 170 chalets lining the streets surrounding the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey, no wonder this is considered a shopper’s paradise. There’s also food in The Lodge, Santa’s grotto, the outdoor ice rink and nearby carol services. For more information, please visit www. bathchristmasmarket.co.uk

AFTER 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS

IS HAVING A MASSIVE

CLEARANCE

SALE We will be closing temporarily in the new year for an exciting refurbishment and will reopen as a unique and fabulous jewellery shop.

EVERYTHING MUST GO Stock up on Christmas decorations, Jellycat toys, Burleigh China, mugs, candle holders, clocks, chimes and hundreds of stocking fillers *Jewellery not included

23 BROCK STREET BATH BA1 2LW WWW.ALEXANDRAMAY.COM 01225 465 094

S H O P P I N G adve r t i s i ng feat u r e

CHristmas is coming...

A visit to Bristol Shopping Quarter should be on your list this Christmas!

B

roadmead, The Arcade, Cabot Circus and The Galleries are home to 500 shops, cafes and restaurants.

Bristol Shopping Quarter has the biggest and best selection of shops in the South West, including designer brands, high-street fashion and over 90 fabulous independent stores.

This year’s Christmas Light Switch-On will take place on Friday 11 November. The festivities will begin with activities in The Galleries from around 4pm. Later, a gospel choir will sing festive favourites before joining Santa to lead a procession through Broadmead to Cabot Circus where the evening will culminate with a spectacular laser light show and the big switch-on itself.

The event coincides with the opening of Bristol’s Christmas Market. Visitors can expect a magical winter atmosphere as they explore over 40 wooden chalet-style stalls full of unique gift ideas such as original homemade crafts and authentic German food and drink.

New for this year is the Jägerbarn bar and beer garden. Bristol’s Christmas Market will be open every day right up to Christmas Eve. Additionally, the popular Local Christmas Market, offering handmade gifts with a Bristol twist and Fairtrade products, will run 54 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

from Friday 2 December until 23 December.

To coincide with the opening, Southmead Hospital Charity will be bringing their December Buskathon to Broadmead with a variety of great acts performing between 3pm and 6pm. Cllr Helen Holland will officially open the market at 5pm.

There will be a beautiful Christmas tree on the ground floor of The Galleries this year and families will be able to visit Santa for free each Saturday during December and every day between 17-24 December. He’s looking forward to meeting lots of Bristol’s children and finding out what they want for Christmas.

The Galleries has welcomed several new shops recently including Julian Charles and Jack Wills, as well as Boswells Coffee Shop, which is located on the ground floor. To find out more visit www.galleriesbristol.co.uk.

The Arcade, home to several new independent shops, will be busy too over the festive season with visits from Santa and much more. For further information about The Arcade’s Christmas events visit www.thearcadebristol.com.

Getting to Bristol Shopping Quarter couldn’t be easier. Affordable parking is located at The Galleries and Cabot Circus, and Bristol City Centre is easily accessible by car, bus,

and park and ride. Bristol Shopmobility, on the ground floor of Cabot Circus car park, provides daily or long-term hire of scooters and wheelchairs, making shopping in Bristol Shopping Quarter accessible for all (users of this service may take advantage of up to five hours free parking in the Cabot Circus car park when they hire equipment).

Many of the 500 stores will be offering late night shopping over the Christmas period but please check with your favourites before you visit.

For further information visit www.bristolshoppingquarter.co.uk or find @bristolshopping on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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

FINE JEWELLERY AT ALDRIDGES Included in our November 29th sale: A superb Liberty Black Opal & Diamond brooch, an equally impressive pair of earrings & an important pair of Diamond & Emerald earrings.

We are now accepting suitable entries of Silver, Jewellery, Ceramics & Glass, Paintings, Works-of-Art, Clocks, & Antique Furniture for this & all future sales.

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

a d vertising feat u re d e s i g n s e r v i c e s

Bespoke wedding stationery and branding in Bath Designer and photographer Philip Field can ensure your special day is reflected in every single detail, right from the start...

H

aving tied the knot last March in an idyllic evening ceremony at The Roman Baths, Philip Field knows first hand the joy weddings bring.

However, this wasn’t Philip’s first foray into the wonderful world of weddings as, for the past six years, bespoke wedding branding, stationery and websites have formed part of his graphic design and photography business.

After attending numerous weddings of friends and family, Philip realised that many couples were looking for a truly unique way to represent their big day but didn’t know how to go about it.

“As a graphic designer, I’m used to creating branding, printed material and brochures for businesses. The real enjoyment for weddings is the personal involvement with the couple. Getting to know them, understanding their vision and then translating these ideas into reality is what I really love. From the engagement party invites through to their thank you cards, everything is tailor made and bespoke to the couple.”

Philip is also an experienced award-winning photographer, shooting for Bath Life, recognised as an Associate of The Royal Photographic Society and with an international client list including Sir Richard Branson.

“The beauty of both designing and photographing for a couple’s wedding is, that by the time the wedding day arrives, we have formed such a great relationship, which allows me to capture them at their most relaxed and happy.

“everything is tailor made and bespoke to the couple”

I want couples to think of me as their friend, not as ‘the photographer’. It also means I’m around to make sure the displays and branding are exactly as we imagined.”

Philip’s clients also agree.

“We used Phil to design our wedding stationary prior to our big day, and after the event he designed our wedding album. He came up with some fantastic ideas and designs for our invites and we were delighted with our choice. Phil has been an absolute pleasure to work with. He is incredibly professional, timely, attentive and accommodating – his works truly speaks for itself.” Michelle C “Phil designed all the stationary for our wedding including invites, place names, thank you cards, order of service and the table plan.

He personally branded it for us giving us our own unique logo that we were able to use on everything. Phil is really friendly and approachable; he took our ideas and turned them into really high quality work that everyone commented on. Phil was also amazing value for money, he worked to our budget, as he was able to manage all the print runs himself.

I'd highly recommend him to anyone looking for a personal touch to what they want to create.” Nicola L “We were thrilled with our bespoke wedding stationery. Philip really has an eye

for detail, making the design process flawless!

Thank you!” Sam B Packages start from £500, and can include, but are not limited to: l Bespoke branding l Engagement party invites l Save the date cards l Invites l Order of service l Seating / table plans l On the day signage and displays l Thank you cards l Professional photography l Wedding albums l Framing and print of images l Personal website with RSVP and gift list facility In case you’re wondering, Philip’s wife was very happy with the wedding stationery and website he created for their own big day!

07538 075784 pf@philipfield.com www.philipfield.com

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

The Pavilion Suites at Wadswick Green The Pavilion Suites at Wadswick Green are selling fast!

The last few remaining suites are ready and will be available for an exclusive preview from Monday 14th November. Make your appointment now and receive a complimentary cream tea on us at The Greenhouse.

Find your zest for life at Wadswick Green, a new way of living for people over 60. To book your visit please call the team on 01225 584 500. We’d love to hear from you.

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The Pavilion | Wadswick Green | Corsham | SN13 9RD

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Choose from a wide selection of treatments and packages and beautiful products from ESPA. Our bespoke spa gift vouchers, created by our resident spa Beauty Therapist, make the ideal christmas presents for your family and friends.

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Find out more at www.foresttohome.com william@foresttohome.com

BOOKS

ARTS

a good thing rather than a source of tension.

This refreshing and enjoyable approach to fiction in the stars makes a welcome change from the standard dystopian fare – SpaceSnuggle could become a boom genre!

The equivalent soft-edge of crime-writing’s blade – so-called “cosy crime” - is certainly experiencing a new heyday. The British Library has been carving its way through the archives and re-releasing some superb (and some best left unrevived) 20th century crime novels. There has also been a trend of the literary estates of some of the great early crime writers commissioning modern authors to resurrect their great characters.

SPACE-SNUGGLE COULD BECOME A BOOM GENRE!

MODERN MAKE-BELIEVE From ‘cosy sci-fi’ to perturbing whodunnits, this week the spotlight is on the spine-tingling and the fascinating

By N IC BO T T OM L E Y

I

sat on stage this week – well, you can’t really call it a stage at Mr B’s, it’s more a couple of much-loved well-lit armchairs facing a very close audience. Anyway, I sat on “stage” this week with young Americanfiction novelist Becky Chambers. I was quizzing her about her short and fascinating career to date, which has taken her from a crowdfunded, self-publishing effort to being the featured author on Simon Mayo’s Radio 2 book club. I asked her how she felt about the fact that her two space operas to date had been labelled by some as “cosy sci-fi”. She told me that she accepted it gladly because her character-led intergalactic novels are definitely more positive and joyful than many in the genre.

By the end of the interview we’d rebranded Chambers’ sub-genre as “Space Snuggle”, for better alliteration, but – whatever the name – all were agreed that the distinctive element was that upbeat feel to the world she’d created. In her first book, set in the Galactic Commons, The Long Way to a Small

Angry Planet (Hodder, £7.99) Rosemary joins the crew of a dilapidated spacecraft called The Wayfarer on a mission to create a hyperspace tunnel to a far-away planet.

The plot that revolves around that mission is secondary to the community of mismatched characters (of many different alien species), which functions with a warm and tolerant cosmopolitanism, often lacking on Earth.

Those themes continue in the second book of what could become an epic series. A Closed and Common Orbit (Hodder, £14.99) is not a sequel per se but does pick up the story (and backstory) of two characters from the first book, including Lovelace the former AI of The Wayfarer now illegally rebooted into a body kit. Chambers brilliantly imagines the challenges that Lovelace faces in switching from an omnipresent camera-based view of the world to the cone-vision of a human-like kit. She also carries on building up a world with many comparisons and allegories to our own, but in which a mix of species with different defining characteristics and approaches to life invariably seems

Anthony Horowitz did the latter with House of Silk, a revival of Sherlock Holmes, and that’s clearly inspired him to break out on his own in this area as his new book The Magpie Murders (Orion, £18.99) is pretty much a pastiche of the whole cosy crime genre. Not content with creating a detective solving whodunnits in rural England, Horowitz adds a layer of intrigue by turning the spotlight on a troubled fictional author of such crime capers and his literary agent who has just received the author’s most perturbing draft to date.

Finally, it’s not just genre fiction that combine excellent writing and cosiness.

Take, The Reader on the 6.27 by Jean-Paul Didierlaurent (Macmillan, £8.99) which is the tale of a book addict (and we love those) who, on the train home from his factory each day, reads the books he’s supposed to have pulped. It’s a plot rather reminiscent of the Czech classic Too Loud a Solitude by Bohumil Hrabal (Abacus, £8.99) but here the hero finds companionship amongst his fellow passengers and one of the books he reads threatens to reignite his unsatisfactory life.

Whether in space, in the mortuary or on the rails, it seems there’s still very much a place for buoyant modern fiction.

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

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

FILM

ARTS

Clockwise, from left: Tom Hanks plays a pilot in Sully; The Innocents is based on a true story about pregnant Benedictine nuns; in Nocturnal Animals, actress Amy Adams plays a woman haunted by her ex-husband’s violent novel; prepare for a magical night with Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

January 2009. The Airbus A320 hits a flock of geese three minutes after take-off disabling what is believed to be both engines and pilot Sully (Tom Hanks) decides to ditch the plane on the river, without any fatalities, and is consequently hailed as a hero. Meanwhile however, an investigation is soon underway that threatens to destroy his career and reputation. We are expecting this one to really take-off and be a runway, oops, runaway, success.

THEY DOCUMENT NOT JUST THE GLORIES OF THE RAILWAY BUT ALSO THE CHANGING WORLD OF THE 20TH CENTURY

WINTER WONDERS From stories based on remarkable true stories to tales full of wonderment and wizardry, here are the films not to miss at the Little this month...

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

W

e are well and truly into cosyville and the most magical time of year for cinemagoing. Warm auditoria, the whiff of mulled wine and a damp dog to share it with if you’re lucky.

Talking of stinky animals, continuing at the Little is Nocturnal Animals from director Tom Ford (A Single Man), although it actually has less to do with owls and badgers but rather more to do with art gallery owner Susan (Amy Adams) haunted by her ex-husband’s (Jake Gyllenhaal) violent novel. With each page she reads, the novel becomes a film within a film about a family road trip which turns violent and deadly.

With a super cast, also featuring Aaron Taylor-Johnson (twit twoo) and Isla Fisher (Mrs Baron Cohen), it’s a grit-filled feast for the senses, so come with a hearty appetite.

My next film isn’t the easiest one to watch and far from entertaining in the typical sense of the word, however, hopefully cinema teaches us to go outside of our

comfort zone – a bit like the Quality Street effect, you take the orange creams with the toffee pennies. The Innocents is based on a remarkable true story about a young French doctor who, whilst treating WWII survivors in Poland, discovers several pregnant Benedictine nuns who have been assaulted and raped by Soviet soldiers. It’s well made and highly poignant.

If you’re not sure where to find them, try the Little for a magic night of wonderment and wizardry. Forget Harry Potter, he’s so in the future, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is where it’s at nowadays. British wizard Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) arrives at America’s Magical Congress with a briefcase containing various extraordinary creatures. Carelessness causes them to escape and mayhem ensues in Manhattan.

And so begins the retrieval of the fantastic beasts. You may as well get into it as this is the first instalment in a whole new fantasy film franchise.

Sully is the latest offering directed and produced by Clint Eastwood. Many people, like me, will be surprised at the full story of Sullenberger’s emergency landing of a passenger jet on the Hudson River in

Just a very brief mention of a film we’re hoping will be at the Little – A Street Cat Named Bob. Based on the bestselling book, we witness the friendship and warmth between James, a recovering drug addict and busker, and Bob, the stray ginger cat.

Purrfect for a cosy evening viewing, we have a feline it’ll be a big hit.

A couple of events to mention before I go.

I know it’s only November, but it’s never too early for a truly festive celebration. André Rieu: Christmas with André (19 November) is a 90-minute previously unseen recorded Christmas concert packed with jollity and all the seasonal favourites. As a treat, exclusive to cinema audiences, André will be inviting his fans to his home town for a live intimate tour of Maastricht’s magical Christmas highlights, as well as participating in a Q&A where the King of Waltz himself will answer questions submitted by cinema audiences.

Finally, we offer you a chance to go back to a time when travelling by rail was comfortable, punctual and even a touch romantic (thinking Brief Encounter).

Railways on Film is a rare collection of archive films charting the history of the UK’s railways and the heady freedom offered by train travel. Immensely evocative and nostalgic they document not just the glories of the railway but also the changing world of the 20th century. Toot toot for now!

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

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

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

• Located in Wiltshire between Bath and Chippenham.

CreSTed approved.

• Fully qualified specialist teachers with maximum class size of eight - reducing to one-to-one as required.

Co-educational Day and boarding 11 to 18 year olds Outstanding location near Bath Non-selective admissions policy GCSEs A Levels and US Advanced Placement exams offered Scholarships and Forces Bursary available

Book a School Tour at ashwickehall.sabis.net

For more information contact Admissions: 01225 891841 admissions@ashwicke.sabis.net www.ashwickehall.sabis.net

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

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Garrick’s Head Neighbour to the Theatre Royal Bath, this pre-show dining hotspot knocks spots off our pub-grub expectations and wows us with a seriously inventive à la carte offering. Images by Simon Mealing

By L I SA E VA NS

‘‘T

hat’s the three-minute warning, ladies; you’ll have plenty of time to take your seats if you wander over now.”

That’s Jason, the assistant manager at the Garrick’s Head, letting his pre-show diners know that the Theatre Royal Bath’s bell has just chimed next door, indicating the imminent start of a performance.

Thanks to its convenient city centre location, the Garrick’s Head is a popular choice for theatre-goers (the pub was once an inn for actors playing at the theatre and is now frequented by cast and crew alike) and with acts such as Ricky Gervais and Russell Brand coming this year, and with the Christmas pantomime on its way, the restaurant is likely to be even livelier and more effervescent in the coming months.

If truth be told, tonight we’re expecting a comforting, classic pub meal, but what’s served not only goes way above expectation, but side-steps it and astonishes us with its idiosyncratic style. The surprises come early. First to the table is an unanticipated board of amuse bouche in the form of shots of delicately smoked red pepper consommé decorated with basil oil, Somerset Brie beignets and pressed ham hock terrine.

The array of à la carte starters on offer is concise yet expertly thought-out, and out-of-the-ordinary ingredients are ulitised in unusual combinations – from pan-fried quail with scotch egg, parsley sponge and popcorn, to Kafir lime-soused mackerel with burnt onion, kohlrabi and wasabi mayonnaise.

My first course is (literally) an explosion of flavours. When I saw it detailed on the menu as ‘confit heritage tomato’, it didn’t jump out at me as a choice that would shock and thrill me; a tomato is a tomato, I thought.

Even when it’s served it looks inoffensive and safe, but as soon as the knife goes in, it’s a different story. The plump tomato gently erupts, and out oozes a sensationally feisty garlic and basil-infused mousse made with double cream.

It creeps lava-like over hand-broken shards of marbled balsamic meringue, which is intensely sweet and tangy, and flows over the tomato’s toasted pearl barley and baby basil bed. My comrade goes for the wild duck ham, which is home-cured, smoked and served blushed in the middle with a crispy skin. The scattered walnuts and poached damson dressing bring it up a further notch.

IT CREEPS,

LAVALIKE, OVER

HAND-BROKEN SHARDS OF

MARBLED BALSAMIC MERINGUE

Simon Mealing, who has worked as a chef for 17 years and has previously done stints at The Chequers, The Marlborough Tavern, Combe Grove, Homewood Park and with the Michelin-starred Sam Moody at The Bath Priory, started at the Garrick’s Head earlier this year. He and his team use some considerable technical ability to create amazing dishes, and they do so with style and flair.

The curious choice of mains Simon offers is exciting and far from the standard options you’re used to seeing in pubs (although, if pub grub’s your bag, they’ve got a menu dedicated to that too, complete with fish and chips, pies and burgers). Among the selections, trompette mushrooms and pickled blackberries adorn new-season grouse; roast salsify, game chips and quince accompany a pheasant hot pot; and the herb-crusted wild roe venison comes ornamented with saffron-pressed potatoes and scorched shallots.

But I opt for the risotto. The simplest option of them all, you may think. But this rich, velvety, cheesy rice dish is packed with an extraordinary roar of flavours thanks to the winter truffle, Jerusalem artichoke, and cobnuts which permeate it, and it’s topped with diaphanous parmesan crisps, shaved truffle and vibrantly fresh pea shoots. For my dining partner, it’s a temptingly thick-cut pan-fried hake fillet with tempura oysters, hay-baked celeriac, wilted kale and a light, zingy lemon emulsion.

This course is enjoyed with a one of their recommended New World wines – the Casa Azul sauvignon blanc from Chile – just one of the choices from the 11-page drinks menu which includes a range of local ales, ciders and imported beers and over 50 whiskeys.

By the time this review comes out, the new set menu will be ready (the restaurant changes them every month) and this will feature yet more weird and wonderful creations – including sautéed duck liver with ginger bread, jugged hare with clapshot (Orkney mash), and Cornish ray fish with pommes Anna; plus, don’t forget the peculiar garnishes of bloody Mary gel, endive and black garlic puree.

For our dessert, although the à la carte options look entirely appealing (think caramelised fig tart and apple bavoir), we go off the beaten track to the restaurant’s pub menu and sample a tower of Eton mess and a mammoth chocolate brownie with ice cream and chocolate sauce.

It’s this range of stylish and informal foodie styles to suit the mood of your visit – be it a romantic evening for two, a special celebration with the family, or, of course, a tipple and a quick bite before heading next door – which makes the restaurant so inviting and inclusive. It calls to both the adventurous and the traditional, and in the candlelit glow of this friendly, comfortable and welcoming restaurant, there couldn’t be a more pleasant setting to enjoy it in.

DINING DETAILS Garrick’s Head, 7 and 8 St Johns Place, Bath; 01225 318368; www.garricksheadpub.com Prices À la carte menu: starters £6.45 – £7.25; mains £14.95 – £18.95; dessert: £5.50 – £9 Wine list A huge choice, and the staff are more than happy to recommend glasses to complement your meal Service/atmosphere Welcoming and chatty and the surrounds are simple and unfussy, complete with monochrome artworks and chalkboards on the walls

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 67

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 THE BATH PRIORY Weston Rd, Bath; 01225 331922; www.thebathpriory.co.uk Michelin starred fine dining overlooking hotels award-winning gardens THE BEAUFORT 1 Beaufort, London Road, Bath; 01225 422033; www.thebeaufortbath.com Family run restaurant in the heart of Larkhall cooking creative, seasonal food CIRCUS RESTAURANT 34 Brock Street, Bath; 01225 466020; www.thecircusrestaurant.co.uk Voted number four in the UK in The Times “20 secret restaurants that foodies love” 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

www.cafelucca.co.uk Stylish contemporary café situated at The Loft on Bartlett Street offering a Mediterranean inspired menu with barista coffee and sumptuous homemade cakes GREEN BIRD CAFÉ 11 Margaret's Buildings, Bath; 01225 487846; www.greenbirdcafe.co.uk Independently run cafe located between the Circus & Royal Crescent 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

CALIFORNIAN THE FIREHOUSE ROTISSERIE 2 John St, Bath; 01225 482070; www.firehouserotisserie.co.uk Californian and Tex-Mex dishes, prepared over a wood-fired grill in a rustic setting

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 CURFEW 11 Cleveland Pl, Bath; 01225 313747 www.thecurfewbath.co.uk Friendly central pub under new ownership.

Bar food with locally sourced ingredients 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

FRENCH

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

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

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

THE MARLBOROUGH TAVERN 35 Marlborough Buildings; 01225 423731; www.marlborough-tavern.com Award winning gastropub using seasonal local produce

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

WOODS 9-13 Alfred St, Bath; 01225 314812; www.woodsrestaurant.com One of Bath’s oldest restaurants serving French influenced British cuisine

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

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

GASTROPUBS

INDIAN

GPT SMOKEHOUSE 44-45 Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 429509; www.gptbath.com “Dude Food” menu cooked with authentic handmade American hot smoker

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

CAFÉS & COFFEE SHOPS

KING WILLIAM 36 Thomas St, Bath; 01225 428096; www.kingwilliampub.com Pub with an upstairs dining room

THE MINT ROOM Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 446656; www.themintroom.co.uk Award winning contemporary Indian fine dining

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

CAFÉ LUCCA 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; 01225 335394; 68 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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

ITALIAN MARTINI RESTAURANT 8-9 George St, Bath; 01225 460818; www.martinirestaurant.co.uk Traditional Italian food served in a cosy atmosphere 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 REAL ITALIAN PIZZA CO 16 York St, Bath; 01225 330121; www.realitalianpizza.co.uk Family owned pizzeria. Wood fired pizza with fresh authentic ingredients

STEAK HOUSES

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

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

HUDSON STEAKHOUSE 14 London St, Bath; 01225 332323; www.hudsonsteakhouse.co.uk Award winning steakhouse in listed building specialising in prime aged steaks and delicious starters with a fusion twist

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

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

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS 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 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 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 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 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 LAMB ON THE STRAND 99 The Strand, Semington, Trowbridge BA14 6LL; 01380 870263; www.thelambonthestrand.co.uk Classic British menus and real ales in a family-run pub and restaurant, plus a garden with kids' playground 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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 69

HUDSON

Best Restaurant Bath Life Awards Recommended by

STEAKHOUSE

Restaurant of the Year

Delicious Prime Dry Aged Steaks and Fresh Seafood 14 London St (top of Walcot St) Bath BA1 5BU 01225 332323 www.hudsonbars.co.uk Open from 5pm to 10.30pm, Mon to Sat Early evening special 5pm to 7pm, Mon to Fri Try the new Flat Iron steak with Bearnaise sauce, crispy French fries and a glass of good wine for just £15.95.

Served Mon to Fri from 5.00 to 7.00

Ponte Vecchio

Cocktail Bar • Events • Parties Open 7 days a week

The best Italian restaurant at the best location...

Ristorante & Bar

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

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

01225 424800 • info@pontevecchiobath.com find us on

www.pontevecchiobath.com

Spring Gardens, Under Pulteney Bridge BA2 6PW

Our three course festive menu £25

New Christmas Menu for 2016 2 courses £30, 3 courses £35.

To Begin Trio of Turkey Tikka

Somerset Turkey tikka served three ways, with fresh mango and avocado salad

Kashmiri Lamb Chops

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

www.biddestonearms.co.uk

Baby Wiltshire lamb chops marinated in a traditional Kashmiri spiced marinade, grilled in the charcoal tandoor and served with red onion salsa and mint chutney

Spiced Scottish salmon

Grilled salmon fillet, marinated with mustard, saffron and caraway seeds, served with onion and tomato chutney

Harabhara Kebab (V)

A vegetarian kebab, cooked on the plancha, made from potato, home-prepared Paneer, spinach and peas, served with mint chutney and tomato chutney

To Follow Turkey La Zawab

The Mint Room's spiced roast Somerset turkey, made to our chef's special recipe, served on a bed of mixed peppers and onion in a creamy sauce (spicing is mild to medium, according to guests' tastes)

Rogan Ponje

A northern Indian dish of tender Wiltshire lamb shanks, simmered in a rich tomato and onion sauce, served with chargrilled, masala-spiced purple sprouting broccoli

Chennai Halibut

Pan-fried halibut, cooked in a southern Indian style, with coconut milk, mustard seeds and red chillies and grilled cherry tomatoes

A choice of naan breads and saffron rice will be served with each main course

Desserts Traditional Indian caramelised Rice Pudding with a saffron-infused cream sauce Christmas pudding served with cinnamon custard Chocolate Goulab Jamum with vanilla ice cream Vegan and vegetarian options also available. Book early to avoid disappointment.

Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EB Tel: 01225 446656 12-16 Clifton Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1AF Tel: 01173 291300 Email: info@themintroom.co.uk www.themintroom.co.uk

fa

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

LET THE FEASTING COMMENCE Tis the season to eat, drink and be merry, the planning of which is made all easier with the help of our handy guide to 12 of the best local eateries around

THE DOG & FOX INN

Ashley Road, Bradford on Avon BA15 1RT; 01225 862137; www.dogandfoxinn.co.uk The Dog and Fox is a charming dog friendly country pub on the edge of Bradford on Avon (it is less than 1 mile from the centre of town) with large gardens and a carpark. It has welcoming staff, a good selection of drinks, delicious food and, when the weather is cold, roaring fires in both bars.

The pub has a well-deserved reputation for its well-kept ales, ciders, lagers and carefully selected, reasonably-priced wines. As for the food, a light menu of cooked food and/or sandwiches are available every lunchtime and more substantial home-cooked sustenance is presented in the evenings from Wednesday through to Saturday. It is advisable to book for the traditional Sunday lunches

as they are very popular and space is limited.

The Dog and Fox hosts regular events including tasting evenings and charity quiz nights. There is also a large room available which can be booked to host meetings and events such as parties, receptions and christenings. The pub is the perfect venue for most occasions including Christmas where a traditional Christmas menu is available. Please get in touch for more information.

THE GARDEN

CASCARA CAFÉ BATH 3 Upper Borough Walls, Bath BA1 1RG; 07475 924010

As we celebrate our first Christmas in Bath, Cascara continues to offer speciality coffee, fresh juices and homemade cakes in the heart of the city. All of our cakes are gluten-free and suitable for celiacs. Vegan options are also available. We aim to provide healthy yet delicious offerings in a relaxed, welcoming and dog-friendly setting.

HON FUSION

25 Claverton Buildings, Bath BA2 4LD; 01225 446020; www.honfusion.com Located in Widcombe, near Bath Spa train station, Hon Fusion offers a range dishes including Sichuan Chef’s specials and a traditional Hong Kong clay pot curry.

Enjoy authentic Malaysian and Cantonese cuisine, whilst sampling their selection of Asian beers. An extensive vegetarian menu, which includes sizzling tofu and clay pot spicy aubergine, is also available.

The enthusiastic and attentive staff at Hon Fusion look forward to welcoming guests.

66 Fore Street, Trowbridge BA14 8HQ; 01225 767511; www.thegardenuk.co.uk Celebrate Christmas at The Garden in the centre of Trowbridge with a two or three course homemade lunch or dinner costing just £17.95 for two, and £22.95 for three courses.

For starters, why not try our homemade chicken liver paté with onion marmalade, or hot spiced tomato soup? For main, roast breast of turkey with all the trimmings or herb crusted salmon fillet served with pan roast potatoes and seasonal veg. And for dessert, opt for a traditional Christmas pudding or try our homemade strawberry cheesecake. These are just a few of our dishes, pop into the restaurant to see the full menu.

We are proud to use only the finest locally sourced, totally delicious ingredients; served in our beautifully designed, festive Garden setting.

Come and be enchanted and satisfied with delicious food and festive drinks this winter.

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r e s ta u r a n t s a d v e r ti s i n g feat u r e

Bistro La Barrique

31 Barton Street, Bath BA1 1HG; 01225 463861; www.bistrolabarrique.co.uk Enjoy the best authentic French bistro cuisine in one of Bath’s bestloved, independent family-owned restaurants just yards from Theatre Royal Bath. It's informal, relaxing and a great place for Christmas celebrations. They can give parties of 30-36, exclusive use of the restaurant.

With renowned chef/patron Michel Lemoine at the helm, choose from delicious ‘petits plats’ (French tapas) with many vegetarian options. The

The New Inn

WOOLLEY GRANGE HOTEL

Lower Westwood, Bradford on Avon BA15 2AE; 01225 863123; info@thenewinnwestwood.co.uk www.thenewinnwestwood.co.uk

Woolley Green, Bradford on Avon BA15 1TX; 01225 864705; www.woolleygrangehotel.co.uk

The New Inn offers a comfortable, welcoming and friendly atmosphere, where both drinkers and diners are embraced in this dog-friendly family pub.

On offer, you will find delicious food and a great selection of wines, beers, ciders and ales, all that can be enjoyed in front of the warming open fires.

Located in the village of Westwood, a few minutes from the centre of Bradford on Avon and seven miles from Bath.

For December, we will be offering a Christmas set menu for parties of eight and above, as well as our à la carte menu.

the fox and hounds

9 High Street, Colerne SN14 8DB; 01225 744847; www.foxandhoundscolerne.co.uk Come and join Mr Fox at The Fox and Hounds in the heart of the picturesque village of Colerne, eight miles from Bath, where you will be guaranteed a warm welcome.

A family friendly pub with substantial parking and a regular events list, The Fox and Hounds offers a locally sourced menu available seven days a week, washed down with an extensive range of ales.

There will be a full Christmas menu available and “The Den” function room is available for Christmas parties.

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

extensive wine list offers many options by the glass. Lunchtime and pre-theatre menu choices cost £10.95 and £12.95. Check out the menus on the website, where you can also subscribe to the Bistro's latest offers and updates.

It has a Certificate of Excellence and over 750 'excellent' and 'very good' reviews from TripAdvisor; and been nominated by AA Gill from The Sunday Times as one of the top three of best sharing-plate restaurants in the UK. The restaurant is open Monday to Saturday for lunch (12pm-2.30pm) and for dinner Monday to Thursday (5.30pm-10pm) and Friday to Saturday (5.30pm-10.30pm).

At Woolley Grange Hotel, the menus have been created by the chef to reflect the best seasonal produce, much of it taken from the kitchen garden. It is also open for morning coffee with mince pies, lunch, festive afternoon tea and supper, and their two private dining rooms are perfect for a pre-Christmas get together with friends, family or colleagues. The Woolley Bears Den is their OFSTED children’s club which is ideal for your little ones once they get too fidgety for the meal table... so you can enjoy your puds in peace!

To book or for information on events, please call and ask for Vicky, or email events@woolleygrangehotel.co.uk

a d v e r ti s i n g feat u r e r e s ta u r a n t s

the lamb on the strand

99 The Strand, Semington, Trowbridge BA14 6LL; 01380 870263; www.thelambonthestrand.co.uk

caribbean kitchen

1 Grove Street, Bath BA2 6PJ; 01225 920360; www.caribbeankitchenbath.co.uk

Caribbean Kitchen is a family-run takeaway serving high quality, home cooked Caribbean dishes. Having been open for over two years, they have gone from strength to strength and became a finalist in Bath Good Food Awards.

Lunch is available from 11.30am – 3.00pm where a variety of dishes are on offer such as salad or rice wraps (with a filling choice of: jerk chicken, BBQ pulled pork, chicken curry or honey chicken), Jamaican patties and a range of cakes flavoured Caribbean spice and Jamaican ginger or coconut and lime.

Evening meals are on offer from 5pm – 10.30pm. Traditional plates such as goat curry, jerk chicken, ackee and saltfish, jerk pork belly and red snapper served with rice 'n' peas are all on the menu. Meal deals are also available, ask for details.

As well as providing meals to residents and shoppers in Bath, the Caribbean Kitchen can also cater for outside events and business lunches. Delivery is available for both lunch and dinner, just give us a call.

So why not try something a bit different this Christmas? Get together with friends and enjoy some amazing, fresh, home-cooked Caribbean dishes. The Kitchen can cater for dinner parties no matter the size. For more details please call 01225 920360 or email enquiries@caribbeankitchenbath.co.uk.

Woods restaurant 9-13 Alfred St. Bath BA1 2QX; 01225 314812; www.woodsrestaurant.com

Woods occupies the spacious ground floor of five Georgian town houses in a quiet cul de sac opposite the Assembly Rooms. With its Georgian elegance and warm informal atmosphere, Woods has created an enviable reputation as one of Bath's best independent restaurants.

David Price and his French wife Claude have owned Woods since 1979, making

The Lamb on the Strand is a family run restaurant and pub offering excellent food and drink in a cosy, relaxed atmosphere. Combining local, seasonal fare with creative cooking and impeccable service, The Lamb on the Strand promises to deliver a wonderful festive experience. Their Christmas party menu features citrus-cured, locally caught trout, Wiltshire roast turkey and port poached pears. Two courses for dinner costs £22.95, and three courses for dinner costs £26.95, with supplements required for their popular Friday Night Dance Night. The Lamb on the Strand looks forward to welcoming you this festive season.

Burgers and Barrels

2 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EH; 01225 313030; www.burgersnbarrels.co.uk Burgers and Barrels' mission is to make great burgers and serve the best cocktails.

They are proud to introduce their newest addition to the legendary burger menu: The Silence of the Lambs, which joins favourites such as the Django, 12 Monkeys, Immortals and The Gotham – all of which are cooked fresh to order and make use of locally produced ingredients. Cocktails are created, mixed and served by Ronnie, Ahmed and their team, along with a range of lagers and ciders. The restaurant offers seating opposite the bar and in the atmospheric and stylish back room, and look out for takeaways with a delivery service coming soon.

it a truly family run business offering the finest British cooking with a French accent and competitive prices, delivered with a truly personal service.

Woods is now taking bookings for Christmas with the festive menu offering starters such as, blue cheese and walnut salad or pickled herring fillets, and mains including traditional turkey with a stuffing of pork and sage, venison casserole and wild mushroom, onion and tarragon nut roast. Desserts include traditional Christmas pudding and chocolate and brandy ice parfait.

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FOOD & DRINK

BEN FRANKS Wine exper t

AUTUMN’S WINNING WINE FLIGHT Our expert wine columnist, Ben Franks, visits THE CHEQUERS to try out new head chef Rupert Taylor’s offerings, and the accompanying tipples

G

etting the wine flight right is one of the culinary world’s most difficult challenges.

Inevitably, it requires a tasting menu of exceptional food alongside a range of wines that complement and contrast a whole variety of tastes. It’s about surprising the guests who don’t drink white wine into seeing a wine like Chardonnay as the best tipple of the night. It’s about creating that perfect moment between a sticky sweet wine and a creamy, rich pudding.

Usually, a task like a wine flight needs two key ingredients: a brilliant chef and a talented sommelier. So when I was invited to taste the wine flight at The Chequers, alongside their new weekday tasting menu, it was interesting to learn that their chef Rupert Taylor – while undoubtedly brilliant – was new, and that the role of sommelier was a combined effort of the gastropub’s staff.

If I had any fears of a poor show, they were quickly shrugged off by the introduction of a sparkling English wine to start. Ridgeview Bloomsbury Brut, from Sussex, is one of those wines with an unmistakable style. Full bodied, great depth and Champagne-like in style

THE CHARCOAL SHAVINGS MET WITH THE OILINESS OF THE WINE 76 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

with dominant Chardonnay and a back bone of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. It matched perfectly with a snack portion of ham hock and whipped liver parfait.

After a high standard start the next match in the starters was a Bordeaux Sauvignon Blanc from Domaine du Grand Mayne. It was paired well with the sweetness of the carrot three-ways and goats’ cheese roulade.

However, the issue with Bordeaux white is it’s always got a kick of alcohol, floating somewhere between 12 and 13.5 per cent.

Sauvignon undoubtedly suits goats’ cheese like peas in a pod but a lighter style from Loire would have been perfection.

Nonetheless, the next few matches worked beautifully. The savoury and full-bodied Hermit Crab Viognier from D’Arenburg sat next to a scallop and butternut squash starter gorgeously. Our server, Jai, called the match “kooky, which is what The Chequers is all about”, and it worked. The charcoal shavings met with the oiliness of the wine, while the

sweet red pepper and chorizo shards needed the Crab’s savoury appeal.

The highlight of the evening was the stone bass fish main alongside a crisp and chalky bottle of Domaine Bernard Defaix’s Chablis.

A beautiful wine with notes of crisp grapefruit, butter and greengages. It was a star next to the bass, squid, terrine and butter sauce. Heaven.

It goes without saying that the bottle of New Zealand Pinot Noir we had – the black label Yealands Estate – was layered, full of strawberry and cherry fruit, warm and satisfying. It had to be amazing as the only red wine on the tasting flight, but by golly it’s a smart wine. It worked a treat with the chef’s venison loin.

We wrapped up with two sweet courses – a green apple and sheeps’ curd mousse with oats, honey and sorrel, and a banana bavarois with brown bread ice cream. The first was paired with the very sweet but ultra-fresh Secua Chardonnay dulce, which tastes like hard boiled apple sweets. Moreish and a top match but perhaps for those with more of a sweet tooth. To end with the bavarois we were served a double Kahlua coffee liqueur.

I may be a wino who secretly desired a rich Sauternes or sweet cherry Beaujolais but nevertheless the Kahlua rounded off a stunning meal.

So hats off to The Chequers. No sommelier and a brand new chef have pulled off a class tasting menu and wine flight. Well worth a taste.

More wine lover news and events at www. benfrankswine.com or follow @BenFranksWine on Twitter

TASTING ROOM SPECIALIST WINE AND SPIRITS Shop and Bar

Voted in the top 50 of the UK's Best Independent Drinks Merchants 6 Green Street, Bath BA1 2JY | 01225 483 070 www.tastingroom.co.uk

FOOD

VEGAN HOTSPOTS

LOVE VEGAN As November is World Vegan Month, we’ve rounded up the (dairy-free) crème de la crème of meatless menus and animal-friendly fare that Bath restaurants, shops and cookery schools have to offer

By L I SA E VA NS

Chioggia beetroot slivers with aged cashew purée and beetroot vierge at Bath’s Acorn Vegetarian Kitchen

W

hen it comes to vegan and vegetarian dishes, Bath’s got herbivores covered.

There are more obvious veggiefocused places like Beyond the Kale – an organic juice bar with a selected range of whole foods and fresh fruit and vegetables – in Green Park Station, to spots you may not know have fully comprehensive vegan offerings, such as Lucknam Park just outside the city. We’ve hand-picked the restaurants, cafés, takeaways and shops covering cuisines from Indian and Italian, right through to Nepalese, which either specialise in vegan-only food or have a substantial meat-free offering on their menus…

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VEGAN HOTSPOTS

FOOD

DEMUTHS

The cookery school is run by Rachel Demuth, one of the UK’s leading vegetarian chefs. Rachel explains more…

Does the school concentrate on both vegan and vegetarian dishes?

We specialise in teaching people with lots of different dietary requirements – from dairy- and gluten-free, to vegan.

PHOTO BY ROB WICKS EAT PICTURES

Is veganism becoming more prominent?

Plant-based diets are in vogue and restaurants are having to become more creative with their menus.

Above: Kimchi stew with tofu and vegetables at Demuths; below: Aloo Dum at Yak Yeti Yak

WE WOULDN’T

DESCRIBE OUR FOOD AS ‘MEAT-FREE’, JUST AS GRILLSTOCK WOULDN’T DESCRIBE THEIRS AS ‘VEGETABLEFREE’

ACORN VEGETARIAN KITCHEN

At the plant-based restaurant, head chef Steven Yates (who previously worked at The Bath Priory) serves modern dishes. Owner Richard Buckley tells us more...

How would you describe the menu?

Plants are the centre of our offering but we wouldn’t describe our food as ‘meat-free’, just as somewhere like Grillstock wouldn’t describe theirs as ‘vegetable-free’.

What dishes can you recommend?

I like warming dishes, such as Vietnamese pho or Korean kimchi.

6 Terrace Walk, Bath; www.demuths.co.uk

HARVEST NATURAL FOODS

Open since 1971, the speciality shop stocks a vast amount of vegan goods. The shop’s Suzannah Puddephatt elaborates…

What can people find in the shop?

Everything is vegetarian, vegan or suitable for specialist diets, such as gluten-, nut- and soy-free.

Is there demand for vegan options?

People are becoming much more aware of vegan options and the benefits to both their health and the environment.

Is it difficult to make vegan food exciting?

There are so many alternatives hitting the market that preparing interesting plant-based meals is really simple and flavoursome.

37 Walcot Street, Bath; www.harvest-bath.coop w

Is it ever testing to come up with imaginative vegan offerings?

Only if you think food should revolve around a central piece of protein in a meal.

We’re ordering: Calabrese broccoli and confit Jersey Royals.

2 North Parade Passage, Bath; www.acornvegetariankitchen.co.uk

CHAI WALLA

The independent Indian street food-style take away offers only vegan and vegetarian options.

Owner, Niraj Gadher elaborates...

What can people expect?

Every vegetarian option we have can be made vegan – from the falafel wraps and samosa chaat to the chana daal.

Why are vegan options important to you?

Being vegan myself, we want to make our food as delicious as possible without doing any harm to the environment.

We’re ordering: The onion bhaji wrap.

42 Monmouth Street, Bath

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Independent Contemporary Restaurant Bath 4 Saville Row | Bath | BA1 2QP 01225 780055 | hello@henrysrestaurantbath.com

www.henrysrestaurantbath.com

VEGAN HOTSPOTS

FOOD

plants which vary in colour, flavour and texture.

The combinations are endless.

15 New Bond Street; www.bloomsburystore.com

GREEN PARK BRASSERIE AND BATH PIZZA CO

PHOTO BY PALAIMA PHOTOGRAPHY

Bath Pizza Co is run by father and son Andrew and Alex, who have been running sister business the Green Park Brasserie since 1992 Describe your vegan offering...

At Bath Pizza Co, our popular wood-fired vegan Marinara is special as our customers make it their own with a choice of toppings. And, at the Brasserie, we offer fresh soup, three-bean chilli, falafel and salads.

Above: open sandwiches at Metropolitan Café on New Bond Street

AS A SELFCONFESSED CARNIVORE, I INITIALLY HAD A

PROBLEM CREATING VEGAN DISHES AS THEY

ALWAYS FELT UNFINISHED

YAK YETI YAK

Half of the menu at the family-run Nepalese restaurant is suitable for vegans. Owners Sera and Sarah Gurung tell us more…

Why do you have such an extensive vegan offering?

In Nepal, most people follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, only eating meat at feasts or special occasions. Dairy is also a luxury few can afford to eat regularly.

Recommend a dish...

Pumpkin and pepper flavoured with herbs we would forage for in the jungle if we were in Nepal.

Why do you serve a vegan range?

It makes environmental sense, it’s good for our health and it tastes good.

Green Park Station, Bath; www.greenparkbrasserie.com

ALLIUM RESTAURANT

Chris Staines, the executive head chef, tells us about the exciting plant-based dishes on offer…

In what way has your vegan offering changed of late?

In order to meet the demands of the changing food scene, we feel it’s hugely important to offer varied options to keep our guests excited.

What do you recommend right now?

The polenta and shiitake mushrooms fritters, with smoked aubergine and balsamic onions.

Is it problematic to come up with creative vegan offerings?

As a self-confessed carnivore, I initially had a problem creating vegan dishes as they always felt unfinished. However, as we’ve developed more dishes, I relish the challenge.

North Parade, Bath; www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

What’s in the pipeline?

We are soon opening a take away café in Kingsmead Square, which will be called Phat Yaks.

12 Pierrepont Street, Bath; www.yakyetiyak.co.uk

METROPOLITAN CAFÉ

Open for 17 years, this Bath café specialises in healthy and balanced food. Manager Monika Nesciadinaite elaborates…

Describe your vegan offering...

Sandwiches, wraps and soups as well as scrumptious salads and frittatas, not to mention to-die-for cakes.

Why do you place importance on a meatfree offering?

Ours is the first and longest-standing vegetarian café in Bath. It’s truly wonderful to observe a change in a definition of what a good lunch is.

Is it challenging to produce inventive everchanging vegan offerings?

Quite the opposite. There are so many different

DOUGH

Based in Bath and owned by Emiliano Tunno and Massimo Nucaro, this is a pizzeria in which you can choose your own healthy toppings and dough.

Massimo tells us more…

What are your most popular vegan dishes?

Our vegan and gluten-free pizzas. We have a really good vegan cheese too.

Is veganism becoming more prominent?

It was rarely acknowledged, let alone catered for, 10 years ago. In recent years, the breadth of choice continues to grow.

Do healthy options play a big part on your menu in general?

Nearly all of our doughs have health-giving properties – hemp has omega 3 and 6; kamut provides up to 40 per cent more protein than traditional wheat; and tumeric has antiinflammatory properties.

14-16 The Corridor; www.doughpizzarestaurant.co.uk w

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FOOD

VEGAN HOTSPOTS

CHAPEL ARTS CAFÉ

Chef Jake Metcalfe (who previously worked at Acorn) prepares the café’s fare. Owners Mark and Lily Heather explain…

What can people expect?

Dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus.

Why is it important to you to offer exciting vegan meals?

Nutrition, sustainability and animal welfare.

We’re ordering: The warm salad of Romanesco, roast tofu and quinoa, with a ginger, garlic and chilli dressing.

St. James’ Memorial Hall, Lower Borough Walls, Bath, www.chapelarts.org

HENRY’S

Alongside its classic menu, the restaurant also celebrates sustainable vegan food. Owner and head chef Henry Scott explains more…

Why do you think it’s important to offer meat-free options?

As vegetarianism and veganism grow in popularity, it’s essential to offer seasonallychanging dishes that put the finest plant ingredients at the centre, without sacrificing taste or experience.

We’re ordering: The aubergine caponata with sesame crackers.

4 Saville Row, Bath; www.henrysrestaurantbath.com

THE GREEN ROCKET

Its aim is to provide unpretentious vegetarian and vegan food in an informal setting What to expect: Lunch, evening supper, light bites, sweet treats and breakfast as well as organic juices, wines and beers.

We’re ordering: Indonesian rice croquettes with satay sauce and homemade tempeh.

1 Pierrepont Street, Bath; www.thegreenrocket.co.uk

THE MINT ROOM

Moe Rahman, owner of the Indian fine-dining restaurant considers their meat-free offering to be equally as important as the rest of the menu What are you recommending right now?

Our nawabi tarkari biryani is made with seasonal vegetables and basmati rice under a shortcrust pastry lid.

Why is it important to offer exciting vegan options?

It’s a traditional part of Indian culture, so its easy to offer a wide selection of creative dishes. Some of our most popular dishes are vegetable-based.

Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath; www.themintroom.co.uk

R E C I PE F I L E

VEGAN THAI SWEET POTATO AND SPINACH CURRY (Serves two) Our editor tried and tested this recipe from Riverford Bath, so she knows it’s good. The fresh, organic ingredients were delivered straight to her door in one of Riverford’s super-savvy recipe boxes. Ideal for busy people looking for healthy, meat-free meal ideas Ingredients 30g coriander (finely chop the stalks) 1 onion (finely sliced) Oil for frying 150g jasmine rice Salt 1 star anise 1 large garlic clove (peeled and finely chopped) 25g fresh ginger (peeled and finely grated) 1 fresh chilli (chopped) 1 sweet potato (peeled and diced) 1 stick lemongrass (bashed, so it splits) 1 sachet of Thai red curry paste 1 tin coconut milk 200g baby spinach 50g roasted & salted cashews (roughly chopped) 1 lime

Method: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan, add the onion and fry on a low heat for 10 mins.

Meanwhile, rinse the rice, put it into a pan, add 500ml of water, a pinch of salt and the star anise. Bring to the boil, cover and cook for 10 mins, then remove from the heat and keep covered. Add the coriander stalks, garlic, ginger, chilli and curry paste to the onion. Fry for 1 min then add the sweet potato, lemongrass and coconut milk. Season, bring to a low boil, cover and cook for 15 mins. Stir in the spinach, add lime juice and season.

Remove the star anise from the rice and stir most of the coriander leaves into the curry. Serve scattered with cashews and the extra coriander leaves. www.riverford.co.uk

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

OUR NAWABI TARKARI BIRYANI IS MADE WITH

SEASONAL

VEGETABLES AND

BASMATI

RICE UNDER A SHORTCRUST PASTRY LID

CHEZ DOMINIQUE Modern French Dining in Bath 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

chezdominique.co.uk 15 Argyle Street, Bath, BA2 4BQ 01225 463482

Christmas Celebration Menu Available from th 26 Nov – 24th Dec 2 courses £22 3 courses £27

New Year’s Eve 4 courses Fizz on arrival £55 per person

EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY

& Top Lane, Whitley, Wiltshire SN12 8QX 01225 704966 T f @peartreewhitley

www.peartreewhitley.co.uk

Buffet in the bar 2 courses £15 per person From 9.30pm Bookings only

WINNER WATERING HOLE

2 Saville Row, Bath BA1 2QP info@commonroombath.co.uk 01225 425550

COMMONROOMBATH.CO.UK

WE'RE NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR CHRISTMAS PARTIES! Our upstairs bar, available for private hire, has it’s own bar, big screen TV and fantastic staff to help make your event a success. Christmas made easy!

To book, please contact Dan or Emily.

The Curfew Tel 01225 313747 11 Cleveland Place West, Bath BA1 5DG www.thecurfewbath.co.uk

We’re casting our nets wider in 2017 – expansion to a second deck is on the horizon Follow our voyage @thescallopshell

Quality food • Great location • Free delivery

Order your sushi takeaway online and get it delivered* www.bathsushi.co.uk HAVE A HANDMADE CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR

01225 330508 3 Victoria Buildings, Bath BA2 3EH

WE ARE NOW SERVING MULLED WINE & MULLED CIDER OVER THE CHRISTMAS PERIOD

*minimum order £25

WWW.SANFRANCISCOFUDGE.CO.UK TEL: 01225 425714

6 CHURCH STREET, ABBEY GREEN, BATH BA1 1NL

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

CHEERS TO US!

He sells scallop shells from the seashores

Two former Bath Ales pub managers, James Prangell and James King, have joined forces to create a business, as three popular Bath Ales pubs become tenanted outlets.

From 1 November, the newly formed Prangell & King Pub Co, started to operate The Swan, The Hop Pole and The Salamander.

“When we heard Bath Ales were looking for tenants for these pubs, we jumped at the opportunity to take them on,” says James Prangell.

“Having previously been general manager at The Swan and James at The Wellington and The Salamander, we understand what the customers want and we are more than capable of delivering it to them.

“These are wonderful pubs and our customers can expect the same great level of service with top quality food and drink.”

For more: www.bathales.com

Pint pullers James and James have pulled together

CASTING HIS NET WIDER The Scallop Shell has announced it will be expanding its restaurant.

The Monmouth Place seafood eaterie owned by Garry Rosser is opening a second floor in early 2017, which will have an additional 60 seats and an outside terrace.

“The new level will also house a brand new pebbled shellfish display

featuring the best of the season’s catch from UK waters, where diners can choose their own seafood platter cooked to order,” explains Garry. “Plus we will have a new window into our potato room so if you’re dining with us, you will be able to see us making our chips on a daily basis.”

For more: www.thescallopshell.co.uk

IN GREAT TASTE

Award winning Will is talking Italian

As Christmas nears, collective thoughts are turning to the drinks cabinet and there’s award-winning advice on hand to help us gather our thoughts and make the right decisions.

The Tasting Rooms in Green Street, Bath, was recently voted one of the UK’s Top 50 Independent Drinks Merchants 2016 and has been listed as one of the top 10 things to do in Bath by VisitBath.

“It’s always great to receive positive feedback, but it is especially pleasing to get recognition of your efforts from the industry too,” says director Will Baber. “To be included amongst the top 50 independent drinks merchants in the whole of the UK is a fantastic result by itself, but even better following the news that we are considered in the top 10 of Bath activities.”

And Will’s tipple tips for Christmas? “We will heavily feature wines from Italy this year, as I have fallen in love once again with the diversity of these wines.” See more on page 37.

For more: www.tastingroom.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 87

FREE ESTIMATES FULL INSTALLATION AND CAD DESIGN SERVICE 1,400 SQFT SHOWROOM WITH FULL DISPLAYS Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 2AD Tel: 01761 419114 Email: enquiries@firenza.co.uk Web: www.firenzaltd.co.uk Opening hours: Mon 12pm - 5pm Tues - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 3pm

Raven Cleaning YOUR LOCAL CLEANING SERVICE LARKHALL BATH Professional Carpet Cleaning End of Tenancy Clean Kitchen and Bathroom Deep Clean

07711 970 931 enquiries@ravencleaning.co.uk

www.ravencleaning.co.uk

LOLA SWIFT

POP-UP SHOP BATH GIFTS ACCESSORIES INTERIORS INDULGE IN AN ECLECTIC FUSION OF PATTERN AND COLOUR, A FEAST OF DESIGNER BUYS AND UNDISCOVERED ARTISANS OPEN 1 NOVEMBER UNTIL 29 DECEMBER 28 MILSOM STREET, BATH SHOP HOURS MON-SAT 10AM-5.30PM SUN 11AM-4PM WWW.LOLASWIFT.CO.UK

Fashion/gifts/stores/more

SMALL WORLD

If you’ve scrolled through your social feeds recently, you may have noticed the obsession with all things miniature – whether it’s a tiny batch of doughnuts cooked in a thimble-sized fryer or a minimalist microhome which is only big enough for two people – we are currently mesmerised and enamoured with the petite adorableness of it at all. Enthusiasts are creating tiny worlds online for their hundreds of thousands of followers to see (no, we’re not joking, take a look at @tanaka_tatsuya on Instagram if you don’t believe us).

David Simon, of Bath’s David Simon Contemporary, is currently offering mini ceramics by Japanese ceramicist Yuta Segawa. He explains that, often, minute details can make as much of an impression as statement pieces and focal points.

“There is a certain sophisticated novelty about the

miniature object, which is fascinating,” says David.

“With miniatures like Yuta Segawa’s that are so perfect, there is the awe of how the artist overcame the challenges of working on such a small scale. In each piece, he builds the most beautiful shape and applies glazes that have a wonderful depth.”

And these fine-art ceramic pieces, all of which are hand-thrown, fired and glazed, using a choice of five hundred original glazes, are the definition of miniature. They all measure less than six centimetres in height, and some are smaller than a fingernail.

“Miniature pottery relates to the issue of the relationship between artists’ bodies and their works,” says Yuta, who lives and works in London. “It is a challenge to test the limits of what a human body can make on such a small scale.”

There are currently a selection of 200 Yuta Segawa vessels available to purchase for under £30 per piece at David Simon Contemporary on Bartlett Street throughout November and December. There will also be a solo ceramics exhibition at the gallery from 2 – 24 December www.davidsimoncontemporary.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 91

SHOPPING

ED’S CHOICE 2

1

PANTONE PALETTE

3

AN EXOTIC ADDITION TO THE PANTONE COLOUR COLLECTION, SPICY MUSTARD IS A RICHER AND WARMER YELLOW THAN SEEN IN PREVIOUS SEASONS AND CAN ADD A SPLASH OF UPLIFTING VIBRANCY TO YOUR HOME AND WARDROBE

5

4

1. DRESSED TO KILL

2. SKIN DEEP

3. ANIMAL INSTINCTS

4. PILLOW TALK

5. BRUSH STROKES

Nice Things tunic, £89 This golden garment would look great with cropped trousers or with opaque tights and flats for a sixties feel From Found, 17 Argyle Street, Bath; www.foundbath.co.uk

Elemis Biotec skincare gift set, £89 Scientifically proven to re-boot skin’s performance, the Elemis Skin Energy Secrets range promises a thriving, vibrant and freshly revived complexion From Green Street House, 14 Green Street, Bath; www.greenstreethouse.co.uk

Elephant mini plate, £10 Whether single or as the full collection, these contemporary glazed porcelain animal plates are both decorative and functional delightful pieces From Avenida Home, 27 Walcot Street, Bath; www.avenidahome.com

Lux & Bloom cushion, £98 Add a touch of luxe to your living room with this striking new Rosabunda design feather cushion From Verve, 15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; www.verveliving.uk

Golden Walk artwork, £950 Boo Mallinson’s abstract paintings act as a visual diary and a way of recording her everyday walks and journeys through varying landscapes From Bath Contemporary, 35 Gay Street, Bath; available on an enquiry-only basis; www.bathcontemporary.com

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8

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10

6. BUTTON UP

7. PICTURE PERFECT

8.ABSOLUTELY FLOORLESS

9. WHAT’S THE SCOOP?

10. SITTING PRETTY

Painted shirt dress, £365 With its splashes of vibrant colour, this original shirt dress is hand-painted by local artist Carole Waller and is available at her own independent gallery in Bath From One Two Five Gallery, 4 Abbey Green, Bath; www. onetwofivegallery.co.uk

Bath print, £45 Designed, and personalised on request, by Bath artist Amanda Brown, this piece, with its delicate accent colours, makes for a real talking point (and will also be available as a tea towel this month) From Flamingo, 7 Widcombe Parade, Bath; www.flamingobath.co.uk

Zamira Hex rug, from £195 Mustard and grey make a bold statement and add a touch of sunshine to brighten any space in the colder months From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen. co.uk

Condiment spoons, £36 for six As they’re hand-crafted from real bamboo, each of these spoons is unique and their colourings vary from piece to piece – ideal for showing off at dinner parties From OKA, 26-27 Milsom Street; www.oka.com

Libra chair, £399.99 With its retro styling and curved shell-style back, this comfortable-looking seat would be a distinctive addition to the home From Vinegar Hill, 16 Milsom Street, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 93 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 69

SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

SOFTLY SOFTLY

By L I SA E VA NS This winter, it’s all about butter-soft fabrics, ethereal colour ways and gentle prints, with, of course, a few exceptions…

W

ith heatwave season a distant memory, the search for those dream winter cover-ups, snuggly accessories and furry trims, is well and truly on. This season focuses on touchable, graceful textiles and, thankfully, it’s not all gothic and gloomy. Soft greys, blushing pinks, mauves and earthy tones mingle with pops of enchanting jewel tones, and the prevailing prints are mostly subdued – although animal prints still made their mark on the runways of Prada, Moschino and Dior.

There’s a lean towards a lack of detail; fastenings, zips and buttons are minimal and fussy finishes are out, in favour of clean, streamlined shapes with zero interruptions. The sharkskin grey palette has been brought to the forefront, teaming triumphantly with both bright and muted shades, and, of course, there’s the flip side of the softlysoftly approach too, with welcome shots of colour, fiery reds, sharp shoulders, corsetted waists, oversized streetwear, inter-galactic shine and puffy volume gaining fashion ground. So be daring, explore the trends and get ready to rock both explosive and gentle silhouettes this winter.

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

Diamond Foulard shirt dress, £139; Noah shoe, £275; from Toast, 7 Bartlett Street, Bath; www.toa.st

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1. French nch Connection Adeline Trouser, £70, from Maze, 19 Green Street, Bath; www.mazeclothing.co.uk; 2. Alexa grey cord dress, £69, from Bibico, 9A Bartlett Street, Bath; www.bibico.co.uk; 3. Lollia jumper, £275, available at Grace & Mabel, 7 Broad Street, Bath; www.graceandmabel.co.uk; 4. Merino and cashmere shawl, £200, from Katherine Fraser, 74 Walcot Street, Bath; www.katherinefraser.co.uk; 5. Pina woven aubergine/choc bag, £225, from Franchetti Bond, 5 Upper Borough Walls, Bath; www.franchettibond.co.uk; 6. Cashmere and sheepskin beanie, £119, from Brora, 6 Bridge Street, Bath; www.brora.co.uk; 7. Whistles single-breasted coat, £225, available at Kilver Court, Kilver Street, Shepton Mallet; www.kilvercourt.com; 8. Aria necklace, £38, from Treaty Jewellery, 2 Hetling Court, Bath; www.treatyjewellery.com; 9. Livre boots, £225, from Chanii B, 9 Milsom Place, Bath; www.chaniibshoes.com; 10. Ocelot faux fur huff, £28, from Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 95

Want to work at Bath's biggest and best independent salon?

We're currently looking for a new apprentice!

Call 01225 420611 for more information

SMARTY DRY CLEANING

Join the partnership CircleHealth is an employee co-owned partnership where putting patients first is at the heart of our credo.

We’re looking to recruit even more high-quality staff to complement our current teams at our Bath hospital: INPATIENTS Surgical nurses who are committed to providing an excellent standard of nursing care within a fast-paced, surgical ward environment.

THEATRES Theatre staff, nurses and operating department practitioners (ODPs) within our impressive four-theatre suite.

TRAINED BANK STAFF FOR ALL AREAS Excellent rates of pay, excellent working environment and proactive supportive team.

This an exciting time to join CircleBath. Nursing is a rewarding job, so we want you to feel rewarded.

We offer great benefits, which include: • 27 days annual leave • free parking • private medical insurance • subsidised meals • free tea, coffee and fruit • mentorship, preceptorships and professional training courses

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01225 444666

01225 862964

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www.smartyofbradford.co.uk

If you are an adult registered nurse or ODP who is passionate about providing an excellent standard of nursing care, then we’d love to meet you!

If you would like more information, please contact tony.glover@circlepartnership.co.uk or visit circlehealth.co.uk/about-circle/career-opportunities

Countdown to Christmas

Neom Nourishing Massage

It’s time to rehydrate and nourish your skin to protect it from the harshness of the winter ahead, and we have a selection of promotions to help.

Warm Paraffin Wax Treatment

Deeply moisturising for healthier looking skin. 1 hour treatment for either hands or feet. Normally £40, this month only £30

Float away with a soothing back, neck and shoulder massage using essential oils. 45 mins normally £38, this month only £28.50

Spa Aromatique Body Relaxation Treatment

Relieve tension and relax your muscles to the tips of your toes. 60 mins normally £75, this month only £54

5 Old King Street, Bath BA1 2JW

Catiovital Lift Facial

Cleansing, nourishing and facial contouring all in one luxurious facial.

1 hour 15 mins normally £72, this month only £54

Tel: 01225 310014

www.bathbeautycentre.co.uk

NEW

INTIMATE BOUTIQUE SALON SITUATED IN THE HEART OF BATH ADVANCED SKINCARE, BODY TREATMENTS AND ESSENTIAL BEAUTY MAINTENANCE HANDS Manicures, Shellac & Gelish, natural nail extensions FEET

Mini & luxury pedicures, Shellac & Gelish

FACE

Facials, eye treatments, make up

BODY

Massage, spray tan, waxing treatments

MEN

Waxing, facials, manicures, pedicures

SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON OUR TREATMENTS AND PRICES

MK BEAUTY B AT H

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20% OFF when booking a treatment over £30

1 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath BA1 2LP monika@mkbeautybath.co.uk • 01225 466609 • www.mkbeautybath.co.uk

team breakthrough health and performance

Mon 10am 7pm

Tues 1pm 6pm back health 7pm

Weds 10am 7pm

Thurs 11am 1pm back health 7pm

Fri 10am 4.30pm

Sat 9am

Personal Training Small Group Sessions Join a class or call to arrange your own group with friends or family

team breakthrough health and performance

Unit 2, The Ley Business Park Box, Wiltshire SN13 8EH enquires@teambreakthrough.co.uk Tel: 01225 743 801 www.teambreakthrough.co.uk

DOCTOR-LED COSMETIC MEDICAL CLINIC

Intense Pulsed Light for Permanent Hair Reduction Stretch Mark and Scar Reduction Acne Treatments Fractional Laser Resurfacing Photorejuvenation to reduce Facial Redness and Rosacea Agera Skin Peels and Microdermabrasion Dermal Fillers Mole and Skin Tag Removal Leg Thread Vein Treatment Anti- wrinkle Injections Dermafrac Micro-Needling

AMPLE FREE PARKING

DOCTOR-LED CLINIC

10% DISCO UNT WITH T HIS ADVER T

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

The Halo Clinic at Hathaway Medical Centre, Middlefield Road, Chippenham SN14 6GT www.thehaloclinic.co.uk • info@thehaloclinic.co.uk • 01249 454545

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

MIND THE GAPS Many people are now opting for a more permanent solution to missing or failing teeth, with dental implants being one of the most successful and effective options

B

ath Spa Dentistry, a cosmetic dental practice in the heart of the city of Bath, who has been providing this treatment for many years, answers some frequently asked questions about dental implants...

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are the next best thing to your natural teeth; they are permanent replacements for failing or missing tooth roots. The dental implant is a titanium screw that replaces the tooth root and can be used to replace single teeth, several teeth or form the basis of a complete reconstruction.

For many people with missing or failing teeth, dental implants can restore natural oral function, appearance and confidence.

How do dental implants work?

The dental implant is placed into the jawbone, in the space once occupied by a tooth root.

Once fitted a natural healing process occurs and during this time the implant fuses to the bone, a process called osseointegration. At this stage, a post can then be connected to the implant and a porcelain crown (or crowns) are constructed making either single tooth or complete mouth restorations possible.

What are the advantages of dental implants?

There are many advantages of dental implants, as an alternative to dentures and bridges.

Patients feel more comfortable and confident, with an improved quality of life.

Eating with dental implants is significantly easier than with dentures and people can

Single Implant to replace a missing tooth

Alison Adams, Treatment Co-orinator at Bath Spa Dentistry

Dermot McNulty, Clinical Director

“WITHOUT DOUBT HAVING DENTAL IMPLANTS HAS HAD A HUGE EFFECT ON MY WELL BEING AND SELF ESTEEM” enjoy meals without gum pain. With the ability to chew at least 80 per cent as efficient as with natural teeth – foods that were previously avoided can be enjoyed. Speech is often much improved with dental implants and there is no worry about dentures slipping, or even dropping.

Dental implants actually stimulate bone growth. The bone grows around the implant to support it, as it would with natural teeth roots. Improved chewing ability means that you are able to eat harder foods such as carrots and apples, which can have significant nutritional benefits.

What are the success rates of dental implants?

The success of dental implants is dependent on the quality and quantity of bone available at the implant placement site as well as the expertise of the implant dentist. The implant procedure is well established and well tested – Dermot McNulty, owner and Clinical Director at Bath Spa Dentistry – has over 25 years experience in dental implant dentistry.

What should I do if I am considering dental implants treatment?

With so many different options available, and many dentists offering a range of different implant types and brands, it is important to speak to a dentist that you trust to find out what options are available. Everyone is different and there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution to failing or missing teeth.

If you would like to have an initial no obligation chat with our Treatment Co-ordinator Alison at Bath Spa Dentistry, please get in touch today.

We are happy to answer any questions you may have, and guide you through what to expect if you are considering dental implants as an option.

Bath Spa Dentistry 19a James Street West Bath BA1 2BT 01225 464346 reception@bathspadentistry.com www.bathspadentistry.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 101

get gorgeous this christmas Eyelash/brow tint & shape £20 Essie Gel Couture manicure £25 Elemis Biotec facial (all) £70 Beaubronz spray tan £25

NEW! Russian 3D lashes

day spa for men and women 14 green street, bath BA1 2JZ tel: 01225 426000 www.greenstreethouse.com No two offers can be used at the same time. Offer expires 31 December 2016.

Professional studio Families Portraits Events Weddings

8 beatacosgrovephotography@gmail.com @BeataCosgrove f BeataCosgrovePhotographer www.beatacosgrovephotography.com

Demo rides available

0% finance*

LAUNDRY AND IRONING SERVICES

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ELECTRIC BIKE SPECIALISTS SALES - SERVICE - HIRE

2016 bike sale now on!

Whichever your riding style, Take Charge Bikes have the electric bike to suit you.

PICK-UP AND DELIVERY AVAILABLE Cyclescheme store partner 1 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EH 01225 789568 info@takechargebikes.co.uk www.takechargebikes.co.uk * Finance on full price bikes only

www.sparklingmatters.com/laundry-and-ironing Tel: 01225 292141 | Mob: 07977563167 info@sparklingmatters.com

Carol Spalding, Sophie May and the staff at Clarkson’s Independent Funeral Directors would like to invite you, your family and friends, to join them for their annual

Sunday 4 December 2016, 3pm St John the Evangelist Upper Bristol Road, Lower Weston, Bath Led by Rev. Clive Garrett

PLEASE JOIN US AFTERWARDS FOR REFRESHMENTS In remembrance of those we have lost, 'in memory' tags are placed on our Christmas tree during the service. If you are unable to come, but would like us to place one on your behalf, please call us or email contact@clarksonsfuneraldirectors.com.

7 Windsor Place, Upper Bristol Road, Bath BA1 3DF For further details please call 01225 426822

This year we will be supporting RUH Forever Friends Appeal One in three people are affected by Cancer. The RUH are building what they believe will be the best cancer centre for a district general hospital in the UK. This cancer centre will be a state of the art building, taking a holistic approach that is designed to produce a highly beneficial healing.

Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions

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

PHOTO BY PETER TRAVERS

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

The Roman Baths is awash with success

TOURISM

COUNTING ON THE TOURIST TRADE The Roman Baths events bring the international tourists flooding in Tourism continues to beat at the heart of Bath’s economy with this summer season seeing record numbers attracted to the Roman Baths torchlit evenings.

There were more than 40,000 evening visitors during July and August, up from just under 33,000 in 2015 and 29,000 in 2014.

Patrick Anketell-Jones, cabinet member for economic development at Bath & North East Somerset Council, says, “We are delighted with the success of Torchlit Summer Evenings. Late opening at the Roman Baths contributes to Bath’s evening economy, as well as encouraging overnight stays in the city, and reducing crowding during the daytime.”

The historic site, which is currently undergoing a multi-million pound redevelopment to transform its accessibility and help preserve it for the next 100 years and is free to Bath resident Discovery Card holders, has also confirmed its status as one of the best attractions in the South West by being named Large Attraction of the Year and Best International Visitor Experience at the Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards held at Hilton Cadbury House Hotel near Congresbury, on 19 October.

“More than a million people visit the Roman Baths every year and, of these, 40 per cent come from overseas,” explains Patrick. “This award reflects the huge efforts made by staff to ensure that our visitors from around the world receive an outstanding welcome.”

The introduction of four new language audioguides – Dutch, Korean, Polish and Portuguese – bringing the total number available to 12, has helped monitor changing trends in visitors to the Roman Baths.

The biggest change in recent years has been an increase in the use of Mandarin audioguides, which has grown from 12,800 visitors in 2005, when they were first introduced, to 84,700 in 2015. This represents more than eight per cent of total visitors. Mandarin-speaking visitors to the Roman Baths now outnumber French, which until seven years ago, was the most widely spoken language.

In addition, printed information leaflets are available in more than 30 different languages, and these have also helped identify emerging overseas visitor trends. For example, Russian was introduced in 2010 and Russian visitation peaked at 15,800 in 2013.

For more: www.romanbaths.co.uk

“THE BOXER PRINCE NASEEM HAMED TURNED UP, AND ASKED ME TO TAKE HIM BACKSTAGE TO MEET MICHAEL JACKSON” Who brought a Sheffield boxer and an international superstar together? Find out on page 108

1MILLION THE BIG NUMBER

How many people visit the Roman Baths every year.

See more opposite

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

BUSINESS INSIDER

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

DAVID JAMES Meeting Michael Jackson, watching Bath City FC, and a childhood eating sweets – we catch up with Visit Bath’s chief executive David James to talk about his memories…

Tell us a bit about your childhood?

I was born in Oldham, Lancashire and moved to Yorkshire at the age of 10. My father was MD of a sweet factory so I spent most weekends and school holidays working in the factory, and eating sweets.

What was the hardest job you’ve ever done?

I spent a summer holiday as a steel erector’s assistant.

I worked on steel girders up to 20 – 30 meters high, without a safety harness, tightening bolts, handing over tools and passing cups of tea.

How did you progress into working with Visit Bath?

Following a career in beer, I moved into leisure management working with Sheffield Arena, Nottingham Arena and the Science Museum in Birmingham. After that, I took up the post of CEO for the Peak District, and set up the areas first Official Tourist Board.

Who has inspired you throughout your career?

My father, who left school at 14 in order to earn money to feed the family after his dad died in World War I. He went on to become an MD of a very large confectionary company, which was bought out by Cadbury’s just before he retired. His secret mantra is work hard, play hard; be honest, always have a smile and enjoy life to the full.

What plans does Visit Bath have?

Our primary task is to grow the visitor economy, which in turn brings in more cash to the area. Our plans include new promotional campaigns, overseas marketing, supporting more conference tourism and the delivery of top quality events, such as the Christmas Market.

David encourages people to visit Bath

I DID WANT TO BE A CRICKETER WHEN I WAS YOUNGER BUT TURNED OUT I COULD NEITHER BAT WELL OR BOWL IN A STRAIGHT LINE

What is the one thing that might improve Bath?

Probably a 21st century rugby stadium to meet the demands of the supporters and the club.

Where do you love to visit?

My favourite holiday destination is Marco Island in Florida, it’s a magical place, especially in the winter.

You share a name with a famous footballer.

Do you like the sport?

I played football for the English Universities at semi pro level and still play with a group of old dads on a Friday night. I also enjoy watching Bath City at Twerton Park and my son plays for the Bath City Football Academy under 18s. I did want to be a cricketer when I was younger but turned out I could neither bat well or bowl in a straight line.

Have you encountered many celebrities in your line of work?

Yes, many, especially having worked at two arenas but my most memorable encounter was when the boxer Prince Naseem Hamed turned up at Don Valley Stadium in Sheffield and asked me to take him back stage to meet Michael Jackson. Much to my astonishment not only had Michael heard of Prince Naseem but he also asked for the boxer’s number, which he wrote on his hand.

For more: www.visitbath.co.uk

SPONSORED BY:

BUSINESS INSIDER

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC

BATH RUGBY NEWS Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters • The Movember Foundation has teamed up with Premiership Rugby including Bath Rugby to create Move Like A Pro, a programme to help fans get active and lead a healthier lifestyle.

The Foundation, which has funded over 1,200 men’s health programmes around the world, focusing primarily on prostate cancer, testicular cancer and suicide prevention, urges Bath Rugby fans to join Bath Rugby players and become Mo Bros or Mo Sistas with a number of activities which include growing a moustache in November.

The wise Kara, Tim and Helen join Stone King

WE THREE KINGS Law firm Stone King has taken on 14 more solicitors and support staff in Bath including Helen Tucker who joins as a partner in the independent schools team, Tim Roche the new head of IT, and Kara Gosden, a commercial property solicitor. www.stoneking.co.uk

LAW SPEAK As part of its university graduate training scheme, property consultancy Carter Jonas has welcomed Georgia Georgieva, who speaks Bulgarian, English, German and Russian, to the company. www.carterjonas.co.uk

KEEP IT LOCAL One of the latest successful community purchases has been the Packhorse in Southstoke. “As well as preserving a valuable community resource, our research tells us having a good pub in your locality can add up to 10 per cent on to the value of your home,” says Simon Wells, a hotels director at Colliers International. www.colliers.com

Lee Sumsion, Matt Banahan, Warren Hunt and Paul Ealey

• The recent 2016 Bath Rugby Shirt Sponsors’ Dinner was held at Graze in Bath and attended by more than 130 people including players, coaches, and shirt sponsors.

The evening on 11 October began with a reception, where guests were treated to Pol Roger Champagne and canapés and was followed by a talk from business development director Matt Powell.

Bath Rugby captain Guy Mercer hosted a Captain’s Pub Quiz, which challenged guests’ expertise on a number of topics, including Bath Rugby Trivia, plus there was a live caption competition and a Q&A panel featuring Kahn Fotuali’i, Kane Palma Newport and Tabai Matson.

For more: www.bathrugby.com

BATH RUGBY CAPTAIN GUY MERCER HOSTED A CAPTAIN’S PUB QUIZ

For more: www.movember.com

They like to move it, move it

Coming fixtures: 11 November, 7.05pm, Anglo Welsh Cup, away against Scarlets 18 November, 7.45pm, Aviva Premiership, home against Bristol Rugby

SPONSORED BY:

BUSINESS INSIDER

BREAKING NEWS

Edward Taylor, far left, with the Framecraft team Alex, Fiona and Colette

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

GOT SOME VERVE Michelle Aitken and Jacqui Edmiston took the plunge to launch their furniture and art styling store Verve Living one year ago, and have been loving every minute of it.

“We’d tested the waters the year before by taking a pop-up space on Broad Street and the reaction was so positive, we went for the London Road store,” explains Jacqui. “We chose it, not only because the space here is amazing, but also the area is slowly but surely transforming into Bath’s artisanal quarter.

“We knew a lot of people thought it could be considered foolhardy to opt for a shop, but we believe many want to touch and feel items before they buy.”

And with Kylie Minogue and Massive Attack’s Daddy G among their many visitors, looks like the pair were right to hold their nerve.

MIchelle and Jacqui weren’t nervous about Verve

For more: www.verveliving.uk

RUN THE WORLD Peter Blake, managing director of the architect’s group CMS Group, recently competed in the World Triathlon Championships in Cozumel, Mexico, coming a respectable 30, out of 81 competitors.

“I’ve been training since January to prepare for the level of competition and the intense heat, with the help the heat chamber at the University of Bath,” explains Peter, whose Corsham-based firm specialises in property design.

“The whole experience was incredible, made even more so when we saw the concluding World Championship decider when Alistair Brownlee helped his brother Jonny, who was close to falling unconscious, cross the finish line in second place. Such a dramatic and emotional moment, which has really helped highlight what an amazing event the World Triathlon is.”

Triathlon champ Peter still found time to win on the coconut shy

For more: www.cms-group.co

THEY’VE BEEN FRAMED The Green Park Station framers Framecraft, are about to celebrate 25 years of picture perfect trading.

The family-run business was started by Rod Taylor, who, on retiring from the RAF, set up shop on a market stall in the station on 25 December 1991. He then went on to acquire 2 Green Park Station, and the company, which he ran with wife Jennifer, was later passed onto his son Edward and daughter-in-law Rachel.

“Our customers love to engage with us in lovely long chats, enquiring not only about my parents, but also about our children and other members of our family and staff that they have got to know over the years.

“That’s the great thing about picture framing, the process of choosing the frames often allows for lots of fascinating conversations and interactions. So we get to really know our customer base, to an extent where they become good friends.”

For more: www.framecraftonline.com

CHILD’S PLAY

Abbie Olds and Nicole Fitzsimons get ready to child mind while the parents get fit

Students at Bath College are combining their talents to open a brand new crèche and gym facility.

Organised by level 2 childcare and sport students, the new project will allow parents to drop off their children at the crèche and visit the college gym. The gym, which is open to the public for the first time, will have sports students on hand to assist with training advice.

“We place a strong emphasis on

employability skills,” explains Kate Hobbs, interim head of department for sport, leisure and care.

“The gym and the crèche will provide students with another opportunity to experience a real working environment, supporting many aspects of their programme of study.”

For more: www.bathcollege.ac.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 111

BATH LIFE BUSINESS CLUB

ROSSITERS

SPONSORED BY:

BUSINESS INSIDER

Peter and Ann-Marie prepare to answer the Bath Life Business Club questions

I

t’s a favourite Bath department store with five floors of awardwinning, design-led, ever-evolving necessities, accessories and luxuries – from Matthew Williamson sofas and gorgeous gifts to pet accessories, linen, china and tableware. The Bath Life Business Club recently caught up with Rossiters’ owners – husband and wife team, Peter and Ann-Marie James, over lunch at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa to get the lowdown on their fascinating story and how they’ve managed to keep their Broad Street store, which was originally founded in 1961 by Anne and Michael Rossiter, at the heart of Bath’s indie retail scene…

In the beginning Peter: The same day I was due to have corned beef and mash with my mother, something appeared on my desk inviting me to pitch for Rossiters. Turns out it was her favourite store and she insisted I went for it. Several other companies were in talks for it including the General Trading Store and Liberty. I visited the shop, bought a Dualit toaster from a lovely lady called Elaine, who is still with us, and then bought the store in 1999.

Ann-Marie: After university, I was working for Marks & Spencers as a buyer, and was eventually responsible for 25 per cent of their womenswear range. I was offered the directorship of one of their biggest manufacturers, which gave me an incredible insight into the world of suppliers, keeping a factory filled and also the fashion industry.

When I was pregnant with our second child and ready to do something which involved a little less commuting and long distance travel, Peter suggested I help him run this department store called Rossiters he’d just bought. I said I’d do it for two years – 16 years later I’m still there, and I absolutely love it.

About the shop…

P: Bath is a good place to trade and we are a Bath-centric business. We are amazed and delighted at how our sales have held up, both our furniture and the ground floor accessories, 112 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO BY DERRYN VRANCH

The Bath Life Business Club caught up with Rossiters owners, husband and wife team, Peter and Ann-Marie James, over lunch at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

in the face of increasing competition from the internet and other bricks and mortar retailers.

AM: You could spend Saturday mornings trawling online but that does become a bit joyless. Rossiters is a destination store – people come because Bath’s a wonderful place to spend a day and Rossiters is somewhere you can visit with friends or family and enjoy the pleasure of shopping together for fun.

The Rossiters shoppers P: Anecdotally, they are 90 per cent women except when it’s for furniture, and then it’s mainly couples. 80 per cent come from within a 25-minute drive time. Our trade tends not to be touristy but we do see a lot of the UK minibreakers, who are in a relaxed purchasing mood.

Christmas time AM: As with more and more retailers, the last three months of the year are critical. We do 49 per cent of our business on the ground floor in those eight to nine weeks.

P: It would be easy to see the Bath Christmas market as our competition. However, it brings huge volumes of visitors and we definitely see an uplift in sales as many of those visiting make a point of visiting our store too.

The internet effect P: The core of what we are really about is merchandise in a lovely environment with friendly, knowledgeable and down-to-earth staff. We have new things coming in all the time and that is hard to translate into a satisfactory transactional website. We are approaching the issue of a web presence in a more nuanced way.

AM: It fascinates me that so many of the businesses ecommerce, which started purely online, and are seemingly, rapidly and very

successfully, growing that way, are looking for a high street presence. And we’ve already got this amazing five-storey store and an expertise in how to create retail theatre in a bricks and mortar environment. It’s so easy to be distracted by what your competitors are doing, when the key is to stay focused on what you do best and your own business goals.

Events at Rossiters AM: We have the Rossiters Kitchen Club with guest speakers, chefs and different themes. For us, it’s about making people feel like they are part of your community. Years ago, Rossiters had a coffee shop, and this is something we are considering re-introducing.

Finally, on being a husband and wife working team AM: We have both been in corporate life and know how to go into business mode, which means we tend not to have arguments.

P: Ann-Marie is the creative side; she’s the core of it, the marketing and the brand. I do the operations, the finance and the property – which translates as I spend most of my time arguing about prices!

FRESH THINKING OVER A FINE LUNCH

The Bath Life Business Club is a select group of senior business people. It features a leading speaker – for example, Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis – and a damn fine two-course lunch. The next meeting is on 28 November 2016 – if you’d like to join, please contact Stephanie Dodd (Stephanie.Dodd@ mediaclash.co.uk). These events sell out quickly, so look out for the emails...

The Bath Life Business Club is sponsored

by Bishop Fleming

SPONSORED BY:

BUSINESS INSIDER

HOW TO WIN A BATH LIFE AWARD SPECIAL

AND THEY’RE OFF…!

W

inning a Bath Life Award can transform your business, put it on the map and confirm its successful status, and nominations are happening right now, via the Bath Life Awards website, as well as news, tables for the prestigious event are being snapped up fast.

“Demand is running some way ahead of last year – when we had nearly 100 people on the waiting list,” says event manager Steph Dodd.

Any local company or organisation can enter the awards and the categories are: Arts, Business Services, Café/Coffee Shop, Charity, Cocktail/Bar, Creative, Education, Event, Gastropub, Hair & Beauty, Health, Interiors, Legal & Financial, Leisure & Tourism, New Business, Property, Restaurant, Retailer and Tech & Innovation, plus a Platinum Award for the single best category winner on the night.

3

Awards are open to all The awards are free to enter and can be won by any company: first timers, previous winners, advertisers, non-advertisers. If you’re in the area and have had a strong performance in one of our categories, then you can win.

Please note: for the new business category, companies need to have begun no earlier than 1 July 2015. Please give your starting date.

it’s often more persuasive if customers say that. Give examples. The more specific the better. And please make sure all testimonials are from 2016. And please don’t just say, “Check out TripAdvisor” (or similar). Do the legwork yourself and include or quote the best examples in your submission. (Besides, there are usually some ropey critiques on TripAdvisor, even on the best regarded places!)

4

9

Make sure you qualify Winners need to be based in the Bath area.

There’s not a precise geographical definition (no tape measures here!). But if you’re close enough and much of your business is here, then you’ll be in. If in doubt – ask us! You can enter any category into which your business fits. So you might be both a new business and a best restaurant. Or creative and event. You decide: it’s free.

5

Here are our top 12 insider tips to a successful nomination...

Avoid empty claims Saying, “We’re the best in Bath” lacks context. So say why you’re the best. What marks you out? What are the key strengths of your company?

1

6

Take time on your nomination Please don’t sell your company short by leaving it to the last day. There will have been ample time between the nominations opening and the closing date to marshal your most effective case. Use that lead-in time to gather your thoughts and position your company’s success in 2016 persuasively. What truly marks out 2016 for you? What have you done or achieved that is so much better than you’d expected, or had done last year, or is better than your competitors?

2

Give measures of success Saying “We’ve had a great year” really isn’t enough. Everyone says that. The judges will want to know more precisely what has been great. For example, are sales up? Have you taken on more people? Or entered a new business area, launched a new product or opened up another outlet? Or increased marketing successfully? Or acquired a company? Or won an award? Anything which makes it clear that your success is based on something tangible.

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

PHOTO BY PAOLO FERLA

Bath Life Awards have properly kicked off – with nominations now open, the Associates Tables expected to sell out shortly and there’s another new sponsor unveiled. Plus our insider tips to making your nomination count

Make sure your website is in order The judges will look carefully at your nomination, of course. But we encourage them to visit the Finalists where possible and in all cases to look at your websites. So make sure yours is in good shape. For example, if your last entry in “News” was in February, then that doesn’t suggest you’re particularly active in marketing yourself. Similarly, broken links or typos or fuzzy pics or anything which you know isn’t good enough will undermine your pitch.

Polish it up! There’s time. (And MediaClash’s web team can help, by the way.)

7

If you’re using social media, then be active Imagine a pitch which says, “We’ve successfully used social media to build our customer base” – and then the reality that you’ve tweeted only twice since the summer. Again, judges will be looking at any and all aspects of your business.

8

Testimonials: gather them from customers It’s one thing for you to say you’re great. But

Put yourself in the shoes of the judges The awards are decided by our independent judges. They’ll look at your nomination, visit your website and maybe even visit your business. And then they – and they alone – will decide. The judges will be faced with a number of finalists in each category. Imagine what it’d be like wading through a big pack of info!

Make it easy for them. Write clearly with key points. Please don’t let it be a bit of a ramble about your life in business! Try to create some empathy with those judging you. Emotion is fine. If it really would mean the world to you to win this award – then say so.

10

Use Twitter to build support for your bid If you know you’ll be entering for the awards, then stick it out there on Twitter, making sure you tag @BathLifeAwards. You’re likely to gain some comments you can use in your nomination. But please do not lobby the judges, either on Twitter or elsewhere: it’ll be counter-productive.

11

Enjoy the nomination process This is one of the very few opportunities in professional life to tell people about just how and why your business or organisation is exceptional. We all work so hard, all believe so hard in what we do. So enjoy the chance to assemble your arguments and to say EXACTLY why you are great!

12

Keep 23 February clear…

Just imagine how great it would feel to win a Bath Life Award…

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

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BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH LIFE AWARDS

BEST GASTRO PUB Sponsored by

THE LONGS ARMS Liz Allcock, the proprietor of the South Wraxall gastropub and wife of fellow proprietor and chef Rob Allcock, talks slimy food, caring about her business and how happiness is key

PHOTO BY PAOLO FERLA

How did you celebrate your Bath Life Award?

We were all so thrilled with the achievement and celebrated with lots of champagne. Our award now has pride of place in the bar for all to see.

What do you think makes The Longs Arms stand out from its competitors?

We are a relatively small team but our passion and dedication is immense; we genuinely care about what we do.

How did you get into doing what you do?

I blame my husband, Rob. He is chef/proprietor at The Longs, and it has been our dream to have our own pub so that he can do what he does best – cook fantastic food.

How much has your Bradford on Avon location helped your business?

We took over The Longs nearly seven years ago and have created a thriving village pub. We are so lucky that South Wraxall is a fabulous village and has a great community spirit.

What do you love about your job, and what have you learned?

Our customers – they are, on the whole, totally wonderful, and a delight to get to know. I have learnt that people are very different, and that’s a good thing.

Describe your ideal meal?

Roast beef on a Sunday.

What’s the worst meal you’ve ever had?

The most disgusting meal was a vegetarian dish whilst in Hong Kong – weird slimy fungus stuff with lots of beans and pulses. Followed closely by the first meal Rob ever cooked for me, but I can’t really talk about that!

Any foods you don’t like?

Goats’ cheese – it stinks.

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

Liz Allcock (left), of The Longs Arms, collects the award for Best Gastro Pub

THE MOST DISGUSTING MEAL I EVER HAD WAS A VEGETARIAN DISH WHILST IN HONG KONG – WEIRD SLIMY FUNGUS STUFF WITH LOTS OF BEANS AND PULSES

Have you cooked for any celebrities?

We’ve had lots of celebrity visitors at The Longs, but can’t name names. However Rob cooked for Paul McCartney a few years ago.

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

Have your eyes wide open, and be honest with yourself at all times. It’s a very hard job to be in but it’s a real joy to make people happy.

Any exciting news to share?

We’ve maintained our Michelin Bib Gourmand for four consecutive years, and have been listed as a Best New Entry in the Waitrose Good Food Guide 2017. Both fabulous achievements that we are very proud of.

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

Happiness is the key.

Who are your business heroes?

My dad has always taught me to work hard, and follow my dreams. He is a true believer that you can make things happen if you really want to. Also my husband has passion like I have never seen before, and he never gives up. Rob inspires me every day.

For more: www.thelongsarms.com

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

PASTURES 118 LIFELIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 112 II BATH CLIFTON I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

NEW

PROPERTY

West Lawn House, a relatively recent build in Rode near Bath, has both a Georgian edge and a thoroughly modern update

By E V E LY N GR E E N

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 119 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 113

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

B

uilt in the grounds of a former manor house which was also the site of a tropical bird centre, West Lawn House is an impressive sight to behold. Situated on the edge of the popular and sought after village of Rode, which is about nine miles to the south of Bath, the property is approached through imposing wrought iron electric gates and then via a long private gravel drive which sweeps around to reveal a very striking and handsome house. Although the build was completed in 2013 by its current owners, it’s distinctly Georgian in style and is complete with the grandeur you’ would expect while retaining a 21st century twist. It’s a beautifully presented, large yet manageable modern home – the layout suiting both formal entertaining and relaxed family living – which stands proudly in almost 10 acres of stunningly landscaped gardens and grounds.

Passing through a stylish stone portico, the entrance hall is welcoming and lies at the heart of the house, with the main reception rooms flowing naturally from here, and an attention-grabbing, architect-designed solid oak staircase rising to the first floor.

The bespoke, handmade kitchen and breakfast room is a fantastic open-plan space adorned with exquisitely crafted oak units, solid granite work surfaces and includes an electric five-door AGA, integral Sub-Zero fridge and a separate walk-in larder. Overlooking the rear garden, this large room is perfect for energetic, bustling family life and leads to the rear hallway with the essential utility and laundry room and provides direct access to the triple garage, one section of which has been converted into a gym. The substantial family room and stylish dining room are also easily accessible from the kitchen.

The more formal drawing room and library lie on the other side of the hallway. Both rooms are generously sized and enjoy charming views of the gardens and the drawing 120 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise, from top left: the expertly designed gardens are mostly laid to lawn; the spacious living room currently has a soft, cool look; the open plan kitchen/ breakfast room flows seamlessly and has a separate walk-in larder; one of the six immaculate bedrooms

HOUSE NUMBERS

7,214

square foot of space

6

bedrooms

£2.95M price

9.7

acres of land

1

Triple garage

room has an eye-catching focal point in the form of a open fire, and there are doors out to the garden and rear terrace.

There is underfloor heating throughout the house, along with a surround sound system on the ground floor and selected first floor rooms.

Head upstairs and you’ll find it offers an equally exciting space as the lower floor, with six expansive, immaculate and neatly arranged bedrooms. The master bedroom suite has a large fitted dressing room and well-appointed en suite bathroom lying at the centre of the house with a commanding view of the garden. The five further bedrooms are all a good size, and have views of the gardens as well. Three have en suite bathrooms and there is a separate family bathroom as well.

The integral garage is accessed from the main drive and leads to the side of the house and there’s separate accommodation – with a private entrance, bedroom with en suite bathroom, sitting room and kitchen – above the garage which would be perfect for staff or guests.

The front of the house faces north whilst the rear is almost due south. French doors lead from the family room to the terrace, perfect for alfresco dining, and is an excellent sun trap. Nearby there is a greenhouse with a new kitchen garden, and the expertly designed gardens are mostly laid to lawn interspersed with mature trees and attractive flower beds giving plenty of depth and colour. A pretty stream flows at the end of the garden and there are also two small paddocks and a barn which are perfect for livestock.

Awash with space, West Lawn House an immensely elegant, traditional-looking home with contemporary touches and personality aplenty. All it needs is your own furniture and your personal touch for you to call it ‘home’.

Knight Frank, 4 Wood Street, Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2JQ; 01225 685214; www.knightfrank.co.uk

The public has voted in the first ever Bradford-on-Avon Business awards and the results are in…

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It's one smug business owner and team that make the magic happen.

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NEW YORK CHIC living AVAILABLE IN BATH

House hunters in Bath wanting to make the most of living in their own top floor pad, which has the added bonus of coming with lots of extra space should head to Crest Nicholson’s Bath Riverside

T

hat’s because availability includes a superb, two-bedroom duplex apartment in the Leopold House phase - currently the only property of its kind at the development and in the whole of Bath.

Becoming popular in downtown Manhattan, New York at the beginning of the last century, duplex apartments usually make up the top two floors of a building.

Appealing to those looking for something chic, contemporary and with plenty of space, duplexes are normally defined as top-floor penthouses with two floors, connected by an inner staircase.

Christine Hamilton, sales advisor, explains, “This is a wonderful opportunity for someone wanting a new apartment but which has the added incentive of being on two levels.

“Having two floors makes an apartment feel more like a house and psychologically, there is still something special about going up and down the stairs. In addition, being on the top floor is good from a security point of view with access restricted through the resident’s only entrance.

“Another advantage of a duplex is the privacy it brings. Some people like being able to separate the private bedroom space away from their living space and this is why they are the perfect solution for those wanting this type of home.”

It’s not just the space inside that will appeal to potential house hunters, but the extra outside space a duplex provides. With the balcony on the fourth floor and terrace on the fifth floor, this particular duplex is no exception.

Christine continues, “Outdoor space in central Bath is hard to come by, so to have

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

your own private balcony and terrace is a wonderful way to take in the magnificent views across the rooftops of the world heritage city.”

The two-bedroom duplex currently available at the popular development certainly makes the most of its fourth and fifth floor position.

The lower floor comprises the two bedrooms, all accessed off the hall with the master bedroom being en suite and having built in wardrobes and a dressing area.

The second bedroom is also en suite, while those wanting to enjoy the outside terrace can do so via both the master and the second bedroom.

Stairs move from the hall up to the main open plan living space. Comprising kitchen, dining and living areas, there is also a handy shower room. Access to the terrace is through double doors extending further the amount of room available.

Floor-to-ceiling windows make the property light and sunny adding to the sense of space, while the high-end specification increases the property’s exclusive nature.

Anyone considering buying in Bath will also be interested to note that an increasing number of buyers at the multi award-winning development have said one of the main reasons for moving was because it provides

an easy, level walk into the heart of the world heritage city.

Choosing between the pedestrian towpath or along Upper Bristol Road via the newly refurbished Victoria Bridge, residents can walk to the centre in about 15 minutes including Bath Spa train station.

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

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B AT H L I V E S

Q&A

T

his former government worker was inspired to write a novel when she moved to California for a time. Since then she has switched careers to write full time from her home in the Royal Crescent. Colette has been shortlisted for the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award and signed by a top London literary agent. Here we catch up with her to find out more about her current and upcoming novels...

What inspired your love of the written word?

I moved to California’s Napa Valley which was such an idyllic place, and it inspired me to write a novel. I have no formal training in creative writing but I worked with a San Francisco literary consultant and an early draft was shortlisted for the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award. When it comes to who inspires me, it’s every writer who never gave up and eventually got a book deal.

What’s your background?

I’m a researcher by profession. I worked for the government agency that funds higher education and then for a research consultancy in Bath.

What’s the best bit about your job?

Now that I’m a full-time author I can work to my own schedule and am effectively my own boss.

And the most challenging?

Trying to shut out the world and lose myself in the characters and stories I’m creating.

How many books have you had published?

My debut novel was published in e-book this time last year, and in paperback this July. My second novel is being published in spring 2017.

What’s the current book about?

Learning to Speak American is based on the premise that if you couldn’t be happy in Napa Valley (where it’s set), then maybe you couldn’t be happy anywhere.

Is there any truth in it from your own life?

Only the setting, and the experience of buying and renovating a rundown old house. Everything else is fiction.

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

I live in the Royal Crescent with my husband, Trevor, and my two small dogs. I’ve lived in Bath for 23 years on and off. I lived in California and London for a while, but always come back to Bath. I have three children and wanted them to grow up in a small, safe city with good schools and where there was lots to do. The stunning architecture, the fact I walk everywhere, all

COLETTE DARTFORD Local author, Colette, talks oenology, indie bookshops and how living in California compares to life on the Royal Crescent the wonderful National Trust places, the many cultural festivals and the abundance of cafés and restaurants are just a few of the reasons I love the city.

Is your work inspired by your surroundings?

Absolutely. Learning to Speak American is set in the Napa Valley where I owned a home. My second novel, An Unsuitable Marriage, is set in a fictional Somerset village (I lived in Priston for five years when I first moved to the West Country), and my work-in-progress is set in the Languedoc area of France.

What’s your favourite shop, pub and restaurant in Bath?

I love Mr B’s and Topping – we are so fortunate to have independent bookshops in the city. My favourite restaurant would have to be The Porter and though I’m not much of a pub-goer, The Marlborough Tavern is my local and does good food.

Share a favourite spot in the city…

My favourite view is from my apartment, which overlooks Victoria Park. I also love the garden of The Royal Crescent Hotel.

Most treasured possession?

A box of family photographs spanning several generations. When my siblings visit we spend hours poring over them and sharing memories.

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

What are you reading at the moment?

Heroes of The Frontier by Dave Eggers.

What are your biggest personal and professional achievements so far?

Being signed by a top London literary agent, getting a two-book deal with a publishing house, And being awarded a first-class honours degree, watching my son get married and seeing my novel in print for the very first time.

Any advice for aspiring authors?

Get professional feedback on your work and act upon it. As for making a living, most writers don’t make enough to live on... so don’t give up the day job.

Surprise us…

I took a course in viticulture and oenology, which is the science and study of grapes and wine, while living in California and discovered I have a very good palate.

Learning to Speak American

by Colette Dartford (Twenty7, £7.99) is out now. Her second novel, An Unsuitable Marriage, will be published in 2017.

To find out more, visit www. colettedartford.com

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No.

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