Bath Life - Issue 341

Dining/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property @BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 341 / 9 – 23 JUNE 2017 / MAGIC AND MAYHEM

Small talk

THE COLOURFUL WORLD OF CHILDREN’S SHOPS

ISSUE 341 / 9 – 23 JUNE 2017 / £3

Best of Bath ARCHITECTS PINPOINT THEIR FAVOURITE SPOTS

Fascinating & frivolous AN AUTHOR’S LOCAL DISCOVERIES

Out of town TAKE A ROAD TRIP TO CORSHAM

IN GOOD TASTE WE REVIEW ONE OF THE CIT Y’S NEWEST ITALIAN RESTAURANTS

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EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 341 / 9 – 23 JUNE 2017

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LITTLE WONDERS

From Bath-made childrenswear to the latest toys, here’s what’s new in the world of tots

All the small things On the day this issue hits the city, the Bath Boules – the city’s much-loved charity institution – will be in full swing. Our Bath Life team is ready to play, and our photographers are ready to snap away and capture the family fun – make sure you smile and wave!

Speaking of families, as you’ll have already seen on our front cover, one of our main talking points in this issue is children’s shops. So, whether it’s designer fashion for tots, eclectic toys, or child-friendly foodie treats you’re looking for, we’ve rummaged through some of the best local businesses for kids, to find out what’s popular right now (page 80).

Elsewhere, we’ve been speaking to some of the city’s leading design experts and architects – including the internationally renowned Robert Adam – who have been shining a spotlight on the forgotten, hidden details of Bath, including a risk-focused Brutalist playground, a subterranean Saxon installation and a box in which criminal suspects were held on the street (page 26).

In this issue, we’ve also taken a road trip to Corsham – a place which positively vibrates with history, possesses a present that’s rich in culture, and is, thanks to its muster of peacocks which roam freely, extremely colourful – (page 96); we’ve taken a look around the home of The Salcombe Trading Company’s owner in Norton St Philip (page 130); and we’ve met a local tour guide who shares some of the most surprising facts about the city which made it into his new compendium, The Little Book of Bath (page 130).

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

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FEATURES / ISSUE 341 / 9 – 23 JUNE 2017

Turner Prize winners Assemble (Joe Halligan and Jane Hall) and artist Simon Terrill pose with their installation The Brutalist Playground, which comes to Bath this month

26

FINER FEATURES

Twelve of Bath’s prominent architects reveal hidden and forgotten features in our city

130 Bath Lives

We talk to the author of The Little Book of Bath, Mike Dean

REGULARS / ISSUE 341 / 9 – 23 JUNE 2017

THE ARTS 47 Arts intro The Addams Family make a comeback at the Theatre Royal

48 What’s on A jam-packed lineup of plays, festivals, exhibitions and more

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M E ET T H E T EAM Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Jenny Oldaker, Safia Yallaoui, Steve Jarratt, David Flatman, Jennifer Jennings Wright and Nic Bottomley Group 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 Michael Stevens michael.stevens@mediaclash.co.uk

61 Bookshelf We look into the books that help children conquer their fears

63 Film

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Matt Gynn matt.gynn@mediaclash.co.uk

We review some of the more sinister films that are out now

FOOD 64 Restaurant

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

We venture into the world of Italian tapas at Piattino

75 Food & drink news A new Spanish tapas restaurant and No.15’s head chef

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

SHOPPING

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

77 Shopping intro Celebrate British Flowers Week in style with wild vessels

78 Editor’s choice Inspired by Bath Bike, we hunt for two-wheeled treasures

80 Shops for kids The best children’s shops in Bath for clothes, toys and more

LIFEST YLE 88 Car review We try out the newly released Volvo estate car

96 Out of town We showcase some of the quirky shops and cafes

BUSINESS

PROPERT Y 118 Showcase An ancient mill house goes through an extreme transformation

107 Business insider

DEPARTMENTS

News, advice and opinions from the region’s professionals

11 14 23

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 James Hunter, owner of Hunter & Sons on Milsom Place, poses with one of Bath’s cutest babies who, here, is modelling Sleepy Doe’s loungewear.

Photograph by Ash James

On-screen lovers Ali MacGraw and Ryan O’Neal

BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES

Driving Miss Daisy starring Siân Phillips and Derek Griffiths

THEATRE

HOLLYWOOD LEGENDS Bath is due to welcome two of 1970’s biggest screen icons this September as they perform in a new play at the Theatre Royal Bath.

Ali MacGraw and Ryan O’Neal are famous for starring in the 1970 blockbuster hit Love Story about two people from different backgrounds who fall in love, before a terrible tragedy strikes. Both have starred in many films and TV shows since then and are regarded as one of the most famous on-screen couples.

It’s thought of as one of the best romantic films of all time, and now the famous duo are bringing their new play Love Letters to Theatre Royal from 11 June – 16 September.

Directed by Gregory Mosher, A.R. Gurney’s playwright depicts an enduring romance about first loves and second chances. The show has

enjoyed a critically acclaimed Broadway run and a sell-out US tour; now it comes to Bath for eight performances at the start of its UK leg.

Love Letters is one of three new shows that have just been announced at the Theatre Royal this year. Other acclaimed shows due to take to the stage this autumn include a brand new staging of Alfred Uhry’s award-winning drama Driving Miss Daisy starring Siân Phillips and Derek Griffiths from 6 – 9 September, and, for one night only, West End star Elaine Paige will perform in concert on 15 October. This very special concert promises an unmissable evening as Elaine performs some of her favourite songs and many of the hits that made her a global star.

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

West End icon Elaine Paige returns for one night

SPOTLIGHT

Ben Howlett getting involved in Pathways to Wellbeing

HEALTH

MENTAL HEALTH AWARNESS WEEK Conservative Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Bath, Ben Howlett, celebrated Mental Health Awareness Week with a visit to the Pathways to Wellbeing Exhibition at The Holburne Museum.

Pathways to Wellbeing is a Big Lotteryfunded project promoting positive mental health and wellbeing through engagement with museums. It is a creative project which works to support people who have experienced mental health issues, social isolation and homelessness.

After visiting the exhibition, Ben said, “I am pleased that improvements to mental health provisions are high up on the Government’s agenda. Those suffering from a mental health problem do not just need support through the health system, but also need support in the workplace and at school.

One in four people in the UK suffer from mental health problems and it can often be difficult to seek out help.

“As someone who has spoken out about my own mental health issues in the past, I want to use Mental Health Awareness Week to encourage anyone that is experiencing a problem to speak out and get some help.

There are excellent services available in Bath and no one should have to suffer in silence.”

For more: www.mentalhealth.org.uk

Excited students tell the Earl about their work

ROYAL VISIT

WELCOME, EARL OF WESSEX The University of Bath recently welcomed HRH The Earl of Wessex, also the University’s chancellor, as he came to meet aspiring young engineers and tour the University’s automotive research facilities.

The Earl was introduced to the university’s student racing car team, Team Bath Racing, which is made up of undergraduate engineering students who compete annually at a number of national and international events as part of the renowned Formula Student competition.

Team Bath Racing has been the UK’s top ranked team for three consecutive years and last season, became the first British team to win a Formula Student event anywhere in the world. As a result, they have risen to fifth out of 630 competing teams from universities across the globe. The students took the opportunity to show the chancellor their racing car and discussed their expectations for this year’s competition.

A number of other student teams also presented their projects to the chancellor including the university’s electric racing

car team, Team Bath Racing Electric, their human powered submarine racing team, and Team Bath Drones who will enter one of the leading competitions, the IMechE Unmanned Aircraft Systems Challenge.

As part of his tour, the Earl also visited the university’s Centre for Low Emission Vehicle Research where he was given a demonstration of how the university evaluates vehicle emissions under real-world driving conditions, using its high-tech state of the art equipment.

Professor Gary Hawley said, “Our engineering students really appreciated being able to explain to the chancellor about the national competitions they compete in and to demonstrate their projects. The chancellor was able to experience the intensity of the work that our architecture students are engaged in, and our state-of-the art vehicle facility provided the chancellor with an insight into ground-breaking research being carried out to produce cleaner and less polluting car engines.”

For more: www.bath.ac.uk

Adventures in party-going

Alex Reardon and Ros Trotman

SCENE

Anna Arakcheeva and Leanne Barrington

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

RACE TO THE FINISH To celebrate the start of a new racing season at Bath Racecourse, 50 people gathered for a networking evening.

It gave local businesses a chance to connect with long-term supporters of the racecourse. As the sun descended over the racecourse’s new redevelopment, guests enjoyed the view whilst dining on freshly made canapÊs and drinking champagne.

Sian Swift, Liz Hutchings and John White Fiona Carlyon and Emma Perry

Photos by Guy Traynor www.guytraynorphoto.com

Neil Halliday and Jessica Halliday

Sam Dennis and Hannah Cook

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

Annie Moss and Anita Jaynes

Paula Church, Belinda Bradley and Carol Heneghan

SOCIETY

AWARDS SEASON

Jan Warrington, Mike Warrington and Graham Street

The Bath Pavilion was recently transformed for the Bath Rugby Annual Awards, hosted by none other than our columnist David Flatman – ex Bath and England rugby star. Around 400 people turned up to the event, including rugby fans who had bought tickets and therefore had the chance to mingle with their favourite players during the ceremony. Nine awards were presented throughout the night and guests enjoyed a fabulous three-course meal with champagne.

Photos taken by Mervyn Clingan at Taking Pictures www.takingpictures.com

Stuart Hooper and Francois Louw

Silmiya Hendricks and Kahn Kahn Fotuali’i

Nathan Catt and Paul Baines

Zach Mercer and Tabai Matson Chris Cook and Rob Sandall

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

SOCIETY

CHATTERBOXES To celebrate the first anniversary of the #bathindiechat community, a party was hosted at Hunter & Sons, to which 60 people were invited. Most of the attendees had never met in person but had been communicating online via #bathindiechat on Twitter, which has gained over 3,000 followers in the last 12 months. Local produce was served from the likes of New Macdonald’s Farm and Bath Farm Girls, and a stunning cake was made by Beth Al-Rikabi – known as The Free Range Chef.

Naomi Miller and Emma Boatman Sal Godfrey

Photos by Bonnie Rose Photography www.bonnie-rose.co.uk

Becky Fox, Clare Kingswell and Liam Baxter

Sarah Ball, Alex Sykes and George Eddy

THE LOOK ON THEIR T YPEFACES Erik Spiekermann, a worldleading authority on typography and design, gave a special presentation at Creative Bath’s most recent event at Komedia.

A staggering 400 people attended, and as Spiekermann is famous for creating some of the world’s most notable typefaces including the Nokia font, the audience learnt some valuable lessons in how to create and use fonts in design.

Lucy Morter and Frankie Tuck Erik Spiekermann

Photos by Sam Short at Soul Media www.soul-media.co.uk

Maya Moksha and Kate Fawcett

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

Oli Hudson and Mark Wyatt

SOCIETY Beth Heley, Beth Chippindall, Nicky Banks and Juliana Markeson

HOUSEWARMING PART Y Some of Bath’s leading movers and shakers gathered recently to toast the city’s new classical homes development at Holburne Park. Leaders from the city’s business and property sectors got a chance to meet the Holburne Park developers and project team, and find out more about how plans to create a new community on the edge of Bath are taking shape. The reception was held at the Park’s eye-catching Marketing Pavilion, designed to demonstrate the quality and style of the buildings being created.

Jack King and Giles Harling James Greenland, George Cardale, Ed Gunnery and Francis Firmstone

Photos by Philip Field www.philipfield.com

Councillor Peter Turner, Alastair Gibson and Jacqueline Turner

LET’S BE-GIN Bang & Olufsen, iconic Danish TV and sound system retailer, partnered with The Bath Gin Botanicals Laboratory for a night with a difference. Guests enjoyed speciality G&Ts while dancing the night away with music from the likes of Miles Davis, Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington.

Guests also got the chance to listen to a talk on gin from the distillers themselves.

Photos by Philip Shone www.philipshone.wixsite.com/ photography

Linda Ogden, Victoria Ogden and Graham Ogden

Emma Wyatt and Jenny Noad 20 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Toby Radnedge-Eddleston and Olivia Marks

Lynne Grossett and Roland Grossett

A MAN’S WORLD

DAVID FLATMAN

GLASS HALF FULL This week, Flats tries out Corkage – an independent fine wine shop, wine bar and small plates venue on Walcot Street

O

nce or twice, in years long passed, I produced a couple of restaurant reviews for this most loveable of magazines.

Admittedly, these reviews often came about when a new place opened that I particularly liked the look of, so it suited all of us. Or so I thought. It was during a recent, late-night event that, with some cheap red wine having taken hold, I was told in no uncertain terms why said reviews had dried up for me.

“I thought they were ok,” I said when the subject was introduced. “They were,” said my nameless accuser. “Except that they barely ever mentioned any actual food.” Ah, yes. I do now recall one or two of these reviews being followed up the next morning by emails asking for details of what we’d eaten for every course, and for photographs of said grub. Truthfully, I cannot remember ever knowing – just 12 hours later – what I’d eaten. Nor did I ever manage to produce any photographic evidence that any meal had even taken place. But I knew if it had been tasty or not, and – more importantly, I reckon – I knew whether or not it was fun.

Anyway, because I’m a rebel (also because this article is being filed so late that your editor will have no time to request a replacement), I’ve decided to review a restaurant. And it’s Corkage. I’m not terribly fussed if this place has already been reviewed in these glossy-yetrecycled pages, because I’m not going to do what seems, these days, to be deemed a ‘proper’ job.

Firstly, the bit I didn’t like: parking. I’ll explain this in a bit. This little meal out for five was in the diary for a few weeks, and I hadn’t a clue where this place was. Having Googled it, I realised I must have

driven past it many times, never having noticed the sign. No matter, I thought, Walcot Street has plenty of room for cars so we’re quids in.

And it did! Oh, it did.

My initial impression was, well, that this is a small restaurant. Very small. Small enough that, as we stood by the bar for our first drink, my (admittedly substantial) hind quarters were all but on the plate of one unfortunate diner. Not to worry, as it turned out to be local businessman and former Bath Rugby player Jamie Dellow. A lovely man, I was consoled by the knowledge that Jamie had seen much, much worse in his time.

So, we sat, and were read the dishes of the evening – a mixture of veggie, fishy, or meaty tapas, I guess. Naturally, we ordered a couple of everything. As we waited, more delicious wine arrived. And, having been instructed to leave my car where it was for the night and to get a taxi home, I piled in. God it was gorgeous. Every single glass I loved, and the glasses kept on coming. I’ve no idea what any of them were (my reviewing skills do, on reflection, seem somewhat limited), but they were fabulous. And the food.

Goodness me, the food. Every single dish was mouthwatering.

The next day, I got back to a parking ticket. Of course I did. 8am just wasn’t happening after a night in Corkage. I also committed to doing my bit to ensure this utterly adorable, high quality, perfectly sized restaurant stays open forever. We’re going back this Saturday night and I cannot wait. And no, I won’t be taking my camera.

MY HIND QUARTERS WERE ALL BUT ON THE PLATE OF ONE UNFORTUNATE DINER

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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Twelve of the city’s most influential architects and design experts share their favourite forgotten, overlooked or hidden details in the city…

By L I SA E VA NS

A glimpse of The Brutalist Playground architectural installation which is coming to the University of Bath 26 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

THE BRUTALIST PLAYGROUND BY ASSEMBLE AND SIMON TERRILL INSTALLATION. PHOTO TAKEN AT S1 ARTSPACE, SHEFFIELD, 2016. PHOTOGRAPHY: ALUN BULL © RIBA

FINER FEATURES

ARCHITECTS

B

ath is famous for its many beguiling highlights, but we’ve asked a handful of local architects to go beyond the ‘obvious’ and tell us about their favourite, often unnoticed, spots. From a post-war era Brutalist playground, to a richly layered historic tapestry that lies beneath our streets, read on to discover the treasures of the city which won’t be on the everyday sightseeing tour of Bath…

PLAY AND RISK

This season, Bath will celebrate the legacy of Alison and Peter Smithson – architects who are synonymous with the term ‘Brutalism’ and designed a clutch of buildings at the University of Bath including The Edge theatre. As part of the celebration, The Edge will present The Brutalist Playground – an architectural installation which invites people of all ages to come and play, the Brutalist way.

The surreal landscape of post-war play is a work from Turner Prize winners Assemble and Simon Terrill, commissioned by The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and explores the abstract concrete playgrounds that were designed as part of housing estates, but which no longer exist.

“Assemble and Simon have added a brand new piece to the exhibition, especially for Bath, which imagines the kind of playground item the Smithsons might have installed,” says Jamie Eastman, director of arts at the University of Bath. “The Smithsons absolutely adored Bath, and the Museum of Bath Architecture have an

Top to bottom: Jamie Eastman, director of arts at the University of Bath; Nick Shipp of Nick Shipp Architects; Robert Adam, the man behind Bath’s Holburne Park

exhibition depicting their relationship with the city on at the same time as The Brutalist Playground, which I very much recommend.

Championed by urban planners, Brutalist playgrounds were supposed to offer a safe and considered place for children’s play while giving free range to the imagination, actively moving away from the toy-land whimsy found in conventional playground design. And in this unique project, which runs from 27 June – 9 September, the artists raise questions over design for play, with a focus on the element of risk.

“The risk relates to the fact that Brutalist structures are unlikely to be made today,” says Jamie. “A concrete slide, for instance, with little in the way of softness underfoot would likely not pass health and safety rigour (the exhibition is made of coloured foam, as a counterpoint to the rather brutal flavour of the originals, though).”

CLASSIC YET CONTEMPORARY

When it comes to classical and traditional architecture, one of the major figures to mention is Robert Adam – a pioneer of contextual urban design, a designer of furniture, an author and a scholar. Known internationally, Robert is the designer behind one of Bath’s newest developments in the making, Holburne Park in Landsdown, a project he visits regularly. Here, looking at Bath as a whole, he tells us his thoughts on the look and feel of the city.

“Bath is famous for its spa-town architecture,” he says. “But a closer look reveals a more complex picture. From the Georgian building boom onwards, the classical tradition continued but, in keeping with the architecture of each time, varied greatly but still remained classical. w

TO PROMOTE BUILDINGS THAT ARE DELIBERATELY DIFFERENT IN BATH, JUST BECAUSE THEY ARE DIFFERENT, IS A CRIME

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ARCHITECTS

“This is the great lesson to be learnt that is often overlooked: Bath is a classical town not just a Georgian town and there is a unity in the classical tradition,” he adds. “This unity, as with many places, is enhanced by the consistent use of the same material. Bath is particularly fortunate in this respect, having an easily carved and continually available stone that weathers well.”

Having said this, the traditional or classical architect can also see the value in bringing the ‘modern’ to Bath.

“There is an idea that to be modern you have to be deliberately different,” he says. “This is a misreading of history. True, some things were different in all periods, but out of this has come the idea that to be ‘of your time’ you have to be different in a glaring way that that could never have been done at any other time. According to this idea, if you are not obviously in-your-face different you are not ‘of your time’ and so are ‘betraying history’ itself.

“So, it’s not a matter of taste but a matter of right and wrong,” he adds. “This pernicious idea has been responsible for the destruction of the character thousands of historic cities since it took hold after the Second World War. To allow and, worse still, promote buildings that are deliberately different in Bath, just because they are different, is a crime. It is perfectly possible to create modern buildings that are wholly and recognisably classical as well as recognisably ‘of their time’, much as classical Victorian buildings are visibly Victorian and classical 1930s buildings are clearly of their time. If it is right and wrong we are after, it is immoral to deliberately destroy the identity of a place when people take this as part of their own identity.”

CONTEMPLATIVE SPACES

“As architects working in Bath, we should be particularly interested in creating sensory experiences and interactions with the eclectic nature of buildings we design,” says Nick Shipp of the city’s Nick Shipp Architects. “Creating places

I SUDDENLY NOTICED A MAJESTIC VISION OF ROME UNFOLDING IN FRONT MY EYES

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

Top to bottom: DKA’s Adrian Abbs; Ellie Risius at Hetreed Ross Architects and Ellie’s favourite architectural detail in Bath: a leadclad window on Walcot Street

where building users, or even passers-by, are intrigued by the sense of space, is a skill that the British architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott possessed.

As the designer of structures such as Liverpool Cathedral, Bankside and (partly) Battersea Power Stations and the red telephone box, he was as versatile as he was brilliant.

“The Church of Our Lady & St Alphege, located in Oldfield Park, was constructed in 1929,” he adds. “Designed by Scott in a Romanesque style, it draws inspiration from his preceding visit to Rome and was particularly influenced by Santa Maria in Cosmedin.”

Nick comments that, externally, the church has well-proportioned forms, a circular oculus window and a ‘loggia’ forming a porch to the entrance at street level, and the simplicity of openings is continued around the other elevations with narrow high-level windows along the depth of the nave.

“The use of Bath stone for both the exterior and interior ensures a continuity with context,” he says. “The building’s surprise is discovered in a cloister evocative of its Italian origins. And a sculpture of the architect himself on one of the internal column’s capitals, is the only sculpture of Scott in existence.”

Ian Darlington, an architect at Bath’s CaSA

ARCHITECTS

service hatches and back doors, a lead-clad bay window perches like a jewel,” she says. “Flanked asymmetrically either side by slim-framed metal windows, the composition is eclectically balanced, and thoughtfully retained remnants of an old hoist and stone corbels are an intriguing trace of the building’s history.”

Ellie says she was fascinated to learn this seemingly contemporary elevation is in fact the renovation of an old school gymnasium dating from the early 20th Century.

“It is a great example of minimal and sensitive intervention transforming a tired building into something fresh and contemporary while retaining its historical narrative.”

Like Ellie, the lead architect at DKA, Adrian Abbs, chooses a particularly ‘different’ window as one of his favourite details in the city.

“The bay window on the ground floor of 10 Edward Street – which I walk past most days when journeying between DKA’s studio on Sydney Buildings and the city centre – always catches my attention,” he says. “Perhaps it’s the contradictory nature of post-Georgian intervention that draws me to it. On one hand it’s an intrusion on the otherwise perfect regularity of the Georgian terraces of the area that Bath is famous for, yet on the other hand it is an object of beauty in its own right, with its finely crafted stone details and intricately carved timber fascia above and supports below.

“It represents architecture from another era that is rarely seen in Bath,” he adds. “When craftsmanship still provided some fine details, but when our Georgian history was not as cherished as it is now.”

Architects agrees that the Church of Our Lady and St Alphege is an awe-inspiring design.

“I first discovered this wonderful building on a summer evening whilst cycling home along the Two Tunnels Greenway path,” he says. “Through the soft rays of dappled evening light spilling between the branches of the Cypress trees next to the path, I suddenly noticed a majestic vision of Rome unfolding in front my eyes.

“As noted by Scott, the monolithic Bath Stone walls of this simple Basilica are unlike many of the smooth, regularly coursed, Ashlar stone facades so evident around the city of Bath,” he adds. “Installed unworked directly from a local quarry near Box, the stones’ rough shapes and uneven patterns create a softer texture that relieve the severity of its simple form.

“At key locations, the minimal external form is broken by much finer detail, creating a greater sense of wonder as one explores the building.

Internally, the mixture of roughly carved stone walls towering above the finely decorated columns is continued to great effect, creating a wonderfully simple contemplative space.”

STREET FURNITURE

GLASS CURIOS

It’s not just entire buildings that catch the eye of the city’s design experts, but sometimes it’s single features such as a rear bay window on The Paragon, in the case of Ellie Risius at Hetreed Ross Architects Ltd in Bath, is enough to capture the imagination.

“Midway along Walcot Street, at the top of the looming, soot-blackened retaining wall, amid

Top to bottom: The Natural Theatre Company’s Pothead caryatid and Conehead gargoyle on Widcombe Hill; Ian Darlington of Bath’s CaSA Architects; Kevin Murphy at Aaron Evans Architects

Successful modern examples of architecture in Bath are sometimes difficult to find, reckons Andy Brown, architectural director at design and build company Moon in Bath.

“One of the more recent additions that we think is very successful is the range of street furniture that has been installed over the past few years including bike stands, benches and street signs,” he says. “All of these are unashamedly modern but sit discretely in the historic surroundings, linked by their shared attention to detail and use of high-quality, crafted materials. This is a great example of how contemporary interventions can be made in the sensitive context of Bath.”

Richard Mather-Jones, architect at Bath’s Nash Partnership agrees that overlooked elements in the streetscape add to the city enormously.

“One example is the rooftop advertising by J. Ellett Smith & Plumber on Princes Street,” he says. “The iron signage is a whimsical example of some of the many ghost signs around Bath. The signs offer an evocative glimpse into a slice of Bath’s history that is perhaps all too easily being scrubbed from view. They serve as a reminder that the buildings of Bath are not solely defined by one era but that the city has a much more colourful past.” w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 29

ARCHITECTS

EYES IN THE CITY

Clockwise, from top left: a rooftop ghost sign on Princes Street; The City Watchman’s Sentry Box on Norfolk Crescent; Josh Wyles of Bath’s Designscape Architects; Richard Mather-Jones of Nash Partnership

IT IS SOMETHING THAT IS NOT LOUD UNTIL YOU NOTICE IT, AT WHICH POINT IT

SCREAMS

“The Natural Theatre Company has been making people laugh for over 40 years,” says Kevin Murphy, the managing director at Bath’s Aaron Evans Architects. “Combining a unique style of visual comedy with an impeccable eye for detail, they produce a delightfully absurd kind of walkabout entertainment.”

So, how exactly does this humour link with the city’s architecture?

“When the Natural Theatre Company first purchased the Widcombe Institute nearly 20 years ago, it was to Aaron Evans they turned for advice about the practicalities of converting the old Sunday school into their new headquarters,” explains Kevin. “Since then, the practice has carried out a number of interventions that maximise the use of space within. However, most of this work goes unseen by the general public with the exception of the Pothead caryatid and the Conehead gargoyle keeping a watchful eye on passers-by on Widcombe Hill.

“Based on two well-loved, and occasionally feared, Natural Theatre characters, these two pieces of sculpture reflect the quirky nature of the building occupiers.”

The caryatid and gargoyle were carved from stone by trainee stonemasons from Bath College, and Kevin thinks they illustrate how architecture can possess humour whilst also reflecting the character and craftsmanship of those involved in the project.

THE UNEXPECTED EVERYDAY

Josh Wyles, architectural assistant at Bath’s Designscape Architects says there is a special joy in the unexpected, and that the element of surprise seems to add a layer of excitement to our appreciation of an object. Doing the weekly shop is certainly a time when expectation levels for architectural splendour are modest to say the least, but there is at least one exception, as far as Josh is concerned. w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 31

ARCHITECTS

“Few of our major supermarket chains have embraced built extravagance, opting instead for the architectural economy of the ‘big shed’ and preferring the fabric to provide a neutral backdrop for the array of consumables,” he says.

“But Lidl on Lower Bristol Road does not toe the line in this regard. Most customers will embark on the usual horizontal panning of the aisles: carrots, potatoes, cruciform terrazzo column, mushrooms… pause… reverse the trolley.

“The column elegantly tapers inwards from a wide base, rising to about two metres in height before terminating in a chamfered top and a mechanical socket, sprouting five tubular steel members,” adds Josh. “The shape of the column is exquisite, immediately bringing to mind the Mies Van Der Rohe’s Barcelona Pavilion. It is something that is not loud until you notice it, at which point it screams. And the Lidl building itself is certainly one of historical interest to Bath – worthy enough for Grade-II listed status.”

AFTER-DARK WONDERS

When an object is both beautiful and has a story behind it, it gathers interest, and that’s the case with The City Watchman’s Sentry Box on Norfolk Crescent according to architect Claire Miller at Bath’s SRA Architects.

“On moving to Bath some years ago to study architecture, I lived in a flat on Norfolk Crescent overlooking the green in front of it,” says Claire.

“Sitting on the corner of the green is a cylindrical stone structure that is Grade-II listed.”

It wasn’t until recently that Claire came across the structure’s relevance as a Watchman’s Sentry Box. She says the societal relevance of the box is what has made it so special to her.

“Watchmen were introduced to provide a safe presence to unlit streets at night – in order to dispel the fear of danger and reprimand those who threatened to cause harm,” she says. “The form of this box is based on the Monument of Lysicrates in Athens. Unlike the lavish decoration of the original monument, Bath’s Watchman’s Sentry Box has an appearance to reflect its modest purpose.

“The plain pilastered drum is capped with a shallow dome, with a ring of circular medallions on the frieze providing the only decoration. The 32 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise, from top left: a bay window on Edward Street; the Church of Our Lady & St Alphege in Oldfield Park; Andy Brown of Moon; Joel Smith of CMS Group; Claire Miller at SRA Architects

watchman would have stepped into the Box through the low timber door set into the drum’s curved face.

“Boxes and huts offered shelter for the watchmen and provided a holding place for suspects who had been picked up during the night,” explains Claire. “What makes the box so special is its cultural importance, as it marks a snapshot of social history in Bath following a change in how and when people socialised. It became increasingly difficult to watch the streets at night, and eventually the role of the watchman was replaced by the introduction of the police force. As a result, the box on Norfolk Crescent, which has stood for over 200 years, became redundant only 30 years after its construction.”

HIDDEN HISTORY

Joel Smith, director at CMS Group in Corsham thinks one of the more intimate and yet overlooked features in Bath is a small gate hidden beneath the streets near the Guildhall.

“Named the Lud Gate, but better known as the East Gate, it is believed to have been developed during the Saxon Period,” explains Joel. “It is the sole survivor of the four gates leading into the city, and was subsequently rebuilt during the Medieval and Georgian periods.”

He goes on to point out that Bath has a richly layered historic tapestry beneath its buildings and streets, the majority of which have gone unnoticed by the thousands of residents and tourists above for hundreds of years, and will probably remain so for evermore.

“The archaeological works that have uncovered much of this history, like the ancient Roman Baths, allow the paying public to experience how people lived and worked here, centred around the volcanic springs,” he says. “To some extent, it’s the commercialisation of these remains that allow them to be preserved and available to all.

“But there are also those wonderful treasures in Bath that allow you to walk through a piece of its history at no expense, and one of those is the small Lud Gate beneath a modern street which remains perfectly preserved. It’s available to see for those who know of its existence, and that is why it remains as one of my favourite features of the city.”

A r c h i t e c t s a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

Celebrating the creation of an icon

getting the conversation going in the city of Bath. Join in and find out about upcoming events.

May - October 2017 www.architectureis.org.uk | twitter: @archit_is | insta: archit_is

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Music/theatre/film/more

THE ADDAMS FAMILY

Created by American cartoonist Charles Addams, The Addams Family began life in 1938 as a series of single-panel gags in The New Yorker. The family’s gruesome antics proved successful enough to prompt a TV show, which ran for 64 episodes between 1964 and 1966, plus three movies in the 1990s. The musical adaptation first appeared on Broadway on 2010, with Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth in the lead roles, and ran for more than 700 performances. The UK tour stars Samantha Womack as Morticia, Cameron Blakely as Gomez and Les Dennis as Uncle Fester, with a story based on Addams’ original cartoons by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice of Jersey Boys fame. The finger-clicking musical numbers are courtesy of Andrew Lippa, who received a Tony Award nomination for his work on the show.

The Addams Family begins a five-day run at the Theatre Royal on 13 June, with tickets costing £23-£39. Visit www.theatreroyal.org.uk for more

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

10 June – 8 July

Don’t miss award-winning singer and Radio 2 presenter Clare Teal at Iford Festival on 7 July; Artist Emma Rose, sculptress Rachel Stormonth and ceramicist Rebecca Wordsworth showcase their intriguing art works at Emma’s Wellow studio; Sebastian Faulks’ emotive tale of love and loss at The Mission Theatre from 27 June to 1 July

Exhibitions U N TI L 1 1 JUNE

FRINGE ARTS BATH FaB17 offers 17 days of free exhibitions and events while they take over unexpected spaces and transform empty shops to fire the imagination with art from every part of the spectrum. For more information please visit www.fringeartsbath.co.uk U N TI L 1 1 JUNE

ALTERNATIVE REALITIES A group exhibition of six local artists – Kit Glaisyer, Ellie Preston, Jon Adam, Paul Newman, Kate Genevieve and Dan Bendel – which includes painting, sculpture, installation and video, with each piece

evoking mystical visions of alternative realities. Garden Flat Gallery, 48 Great Pulteney Street; www.kitglaisyer.com U N TI L 2 4 JU N E

RICK KIRBY: FACE TO FACE Welded steel figures elegantly convey grace, balance and movement with a watchful, theatrical presence. Featured in the gardens and stately homes of many private collectors, Kirby’s work is internationally renowned and publicly sited across the UK, most notably outside St Thomas’s Hospital opposite the Houses of Parliament in London and on the banks of the River Thames in Fulham Reach. Bath Contemporary; www.bathcontemporary.com

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

UNTIL 30 J UNE

TAKING THE HIGH ROAD Whilst travelling around Scotland last autumn, Nick Cudworth was inspired by the magnificent dramatic scenes of mountainous peaks, lakes and seascapes. Here he showcases his collection of paintings and prints from the Scottish Highlands. Nick Cudworth Gallery; www.nickcudworth.com UNTIL 30 J UNE

POSTCARDS FROM THE ARTIST Acclaimed Royal Academician Barbara RAE RA, will be showcasing her highly charged colourful paintings depicting the changing patterns of weather and the landscape. These works, even on a small scale, have a very

powerful dramatic impact and a distinct style that the artist has developed over the years. Adam Gallery; www.adamgallery.com UNTIL 1 J U LY

ABSTRACTION & COLOUR This joint exhibition features the work of John Croft CBE and Howard Jeffs RE, two artists whose work is all about colour field abstraction. Croft’s geometric paintings can be enjoyed as much for their pure abstract qualities as for their vibrant interpretations of landscapes or seascapes, while Jeff’s linocut prints explore his fascination with the circle as a fixed and powerful shape.

Accompanying this exhibition is a collection of dynamic, three-dimensional sculptures

by Edward Willis. David

W H AT ’ S O N

Simon Contemporary; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com

innovative. American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org

UNTI L 2 J ULY

U N TI L 2 9 OCTO BER

HONG LING: SELECTED Hong Ling is a contemporary Chinese artist whose work unites the distinct yet delicate essence of traditional Chinese landscape painting with technical precision, ambitious breadth of scale and subject. Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk UNTI L 1 2 JULY

FIND ANOTHER BATH This diverse collection of work includes music, photography, painting and print, and celebrates Bath’s less well-known industrial history. Art at the Heart of the RUH; www.artatruh.org UNTI L 1 2 JULY

SWILL South West Illustrators, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, is a group of illustration artists based mainly around the Bath and Bristol area. This exhibition features the work of 15 members and includes stamp design, street artworks and printmaking. Art at the Heart of the RUH; www.artatruh.org UNTI L 1 5 JULY

BATH SOCIETY OF ARTISTS ANNUAL OPEN This popular annual exhibition showcases the region’s best artistic talent. While the artwork is on display, the public can vote for their favourite exhibit, with the overall winner receiving £500. Victoria Art Gallery; www. victoriagal.org.uk

1920’S JAZZ AGE: FASHION & PHOTOGRAPHS With over 150 garments, this stunning selection of sportswear, printed day dresses, fringed flapper dresses, beaded evening wear, velvet capes, and silk pyjamas, reveals the glamour, excess, frivolity and modernity of the decade. American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org U N TI L 1 0 D E C EMBER

JUBILATE A celebration of music and science in 18th century Bath, with a fascinating collection exploring the 250th anniversary of William Herschel being appointed director of music in our city. Free, Herschel Museum of Astronomy; www.herschelmuseum.org.uk U N TI L 1 JA NUAR Y 2018

LACE IN FASHION From rare, fine luxury garments worn by royals and the aristocracy, to machine-made items for more everyday, and practical use, this exhibition showcases over 50 lace pieces, some dating from the time of Shakespeare. Fashion Museum; www.fashionmuseum.co.uk U N TI L 1 JA NUAR Y 2019

A HISTORY OF FASHION IN 100 OBJECTS The Fashion Museum presents 100 ‘star’ objects that illustrate a fascinating history of fashion from the 1600s through to the present day. Fashion Museum; www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

UNTI L 5 AUG US T

IFORD ARTS FESTIVAL The internationally renowned Iford Arts Festival takes place in the exquisite Peto Garden of Iford Manor, and includes intimate opera performances sung in English and staged in-the-round in the miniature Italianate cloister. Iford Manor, Bradford on Avon; www.ifordarts.org.uk UNTI L 2 9 O C T O B E R

JOYCE PETSCHEK: BREAKING THE PATTERN Bargello needlework is a beautiful flame-stitch pattern and the artist Joyce Petschek has created a captivating body of work that is colourful, inspiring and

ARTS

1 0 JU N E – 2 8 AUG UST

THE SUMMER EXHIBITION: PAST & PRESENT This summer, the Rostra Gallery reaches new heights with its largest exhibition yet. The new exhibition features artists from the gallery’s impressive 20-year collection and highlights the best artwork and artists of past and present. Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk 2 3 JU N E – 1 O C TO BER

TAPESTRY HERE AND NOW Celebrating the vibrancy of modern tapestry, this all-day exhibition showcases the work of more than 20 artists from as

Mother by Victoria Topping is one of the spectacular pieces displayed at the Rostra Gallery’s Summer Exhibition, which celebrates 20 years of the best artwork

far afield as Australia, Norway, Latvia, Japan and the US. As well as revealing the skill of the craft, the show also explores the themes of the tapestries: our response to nature and the urban environment, and how pieces tell personal and political stories.

The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org 26 J UNE – 8 J ULY

FEATURED ARTIST: KEIRON LEACH Appearing for the first time at Bath Contemporary, Keiron Leach kicks of the gallery’s summer programme with his collection of intricately detailed ink and wash images. Based in North Devon, Keiron takes inspiration from the rugged terrain and ever-changing light, which is reflected in his dramatic, emotive landscapes that are so popular. Bath Contemporary; www.bathcontemporary.com

27 J UNE – 9 S EP T EM B ER

THE BRUTALIST PLAYGROUND Edge Arts presents an exhibition that’s part sculpture, part architectural installation, by Turner prize winners Assemble and Simon Terrill, who were commissioned by The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). The artists have created an interactive installation exploring the stark designs of post-war playgrounds. See page 26 for more. 11am-5pm. The Edge, University of Bath; www.edgearts.org 30 J UNE – 1 J U LY

EMMA ROSE ART WORKS Artist Emma Rose, sculptress Rachel Stormonth Darling and ceramicist Rebecca Wordsworth have woven together a beautiful Studio Salon in the depths of the countryside, only six miles from the centre of Bath. Bronze w

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

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

him to live a life of vice and evil.

The play involves puppetry and an original soundtrack to recount the intriguing tale. 7.30pm, £10.

The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk

and resin sculptures of animals, delicate porcelain and gold vases, and objects along with paintings and prints of landscapes – real and imagined – all exhibited in the idyllic setting of Emma Rose’s Wellow studio. Emma was recently invited to be the wild card on Sky Arts’ Landscape Artist of the Year and is in the final of Creative Bath’s Arts Awards.

11am-5pm. Knight’s Barn, Wellow; www.emmaroseartworks.com

Music 11 J UNE – 2 7 AU G U S T

FROME JAZZ CLUB Every Sunday evening from June to August, the Frome Jazz Club will be hosting a different jazz band. The season includes seven dates and features some loved and renowned musicians, including Kevin Figes, Jake McMurchie, Nathan Mansfield, Nick Malcolm and Terry Quinney.

7pm - 9.30pm, Free. Frome Jazz Club, The Cornerhouse, Christchurch Street East, Frome.

Plays/Shows 13 – 1 7 J UNE

THE ADDAMS FAMILY: THE MUSICAL COMEDY Everyone’s favourite kooky family are now on stage in the UK premiere of this spectacular musical comedy from the writers of multi award-winning hit musical Jersey Boys, with music and lyrics by Tony Awardnominated Andrew Lippa.

Starring Samantha Womack as Morticia and Les Dennis. See page 47 for more. £23-£39.

Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 16 JUNE

THE BOWIE COLLECTIVE Following last year’s sell-out shows, The Bowie Collective is back with a full-blown theatrical feast. Starring Steve Evans as David Bowie, you’ll be treated to hits including Space Oddity and Let’s Dance. A 12-piece band, including a string section, puts the muscle behind a charismatic and eerily authentic Bowie performance set against a big sparkling multi-media backdrop.

The show has gained praise from Rick Wakeman, piano player on the original Bowie classics such as Life On Mars. 7.30pm, £22. Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk 27 JUNE – 1 JULY

BIRDSONG BY SEBASTIAN FAULKS Sebastian Faulks’ emotive saga follows the tempestuous affair between a British officer and the French woman he meets in Amiens in 1910. Their love is rekindled with the outbreak of war, when he finds himself back in France, about to lead his men at the Battle of the Somme.

The haunting story is told using flashbacks, juxtaposing

16 JUNE

It’s set to be a glamorous evening at Komedia when The Ministry of Burlesque comes to town, featuring circus and cabaret to delight and entertain on 30 June

the lovers’ idyllic pre-war existence with the horrors of the battlefield. 7.30pm, £12.

The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk 3 0 JU N E

THE MINISTRY OF BURLESQUE: CABARET Fusing the wild, weird and witty traditions of circus, cabaret and burlesque, Ministry of Burlesque Cabaret unfolds as a bold and daring new-variety experience.

Enjoy a myriad of musical comedy masters, provocative prima donnas, glittering enigmatic exotic dancers and astonishing feats of human grace – all balanced on an ultracontemporary knife-edge. With over 15 years of experience leading the vanguard of the genre, Ministry of Burlesque hand-pick and curate with both modern flair and old soul to deliver an authentic, electrifying evening of exceptional entertainment that will leave you utterly inspired.

8pm. £17/£10, Meal Deal £27.50, VIP ticket £46. Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

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

6 J ULY

HANCOCK AND CO. Impressionist James Hurn makes a welcome return to Bath’s 200-year-old theatre (and ex-Catholic Chapel). This unique show features a solo performance

by James who brilliantly mimics the voices of Tony Hancock, Sid James, Kenneth Williams and even Hattie Jacques while reproducing a classic Galton and Simpson radio episode. For this latest show he’s added two new radio scripts that he’s written himself. 7.30pm, £14.

The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk 8 J ULY

THE PICTURE OF DORAN GRAY Oscar Wilde’s only novel caused outrage upon its initial publication back in 1890, due to its depictions of decadence and allusions to homosexuality. The eponymous Gray is a handsome young man who makes a Faustian pact to stay forever young while his portrait ages, thus releasing

VOCAL WORKS GOSPEL CHOIR: GOSPEL ROCKS This uplifting and high-energy concert features soulful versions of classic rock tunes by one of the UK’s leading gospel and soul choirs. Expect an evening of rich harmonies and virtuoso soloists including songs by the likes of Queen, Aerosmith, U2, The Eagles and Bon Jovi. 7pm, £15.

Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 1 JULY

BATH BACH CHOIR’S BIG 70TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT Exactly 70 years on from its first public performance, Bath Bach Choir will perform two of the greatest works of the choral repertoire: Bach’s Magnificat, Mary’s song of praise, composed on Christmas Day 1723, and Great Mass in C minor, which was composed for a special occasion in Salzburg in 1783, although never finished. With a double choir and two solo sopranos, it promises to be an evening full of grandeur and Italianate excess.

7.30pm, £12-£30. Bath Abbey; www.bathbachchoir.org.uk 15 JULY

STEVE HARLEY & COCKNEY REBEL With classic tracks like Here Comes The Sun and Make Me Smile (Come Up & See Me), Steve Harley’s career spans 11 albums and four decades. The lovable w

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

Glenfidden Oil on Canvas

TAKING THE HIGH ROADS An exhibition of paintings and prints

No, he’s not stuffed...

1 – 30 June

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.

Whilst travelling round the Highlands of Scotland last Autumn Nick was inspired by the magnificent drama of the landscapes and seascapes

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

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

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ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

Cockney Rebel interrupts his extensive fundraising work to deliver an evening of fun archetypal pop and rock. 8pm, £27.50. Cheese & Grain; www.cheeseandgrain.com

Family fun U N TI L 2 5 JUNE

FESTIVAL OF NATURE The UK’s biggest free celebration of the natural world starts in Bristol, winds down the River Avon through Keynsham and ends in Bath. The varied and illuminating events include a travelling cinema in a campervan, talks and workshops all over the city, and an all-day free family wildlife party on 25 June in Parade Gardens. For more information, please visit www.festivalofnature.org 17 JUNE

FRIENDS OF MARKSBURY SCHOOL AND CORSTON FIELDS FESTIVAL In order to raise £20,000 towards IT infrastructure upgrades, the PTA is hosting a fun festival in Corston Fields, a quinoa farm behind the Wheatsheaf pub.

With a village fete vibe, expect lots of fun and games, including splat the rat, tin can alley, welly wanging, ring the bull, croquet, quoits, plus tombolas and raffles. There’s also a free circus workshop and tractor rides.

11am-5pm, £2.50. Corston Fields; www.corstonfieldsfestival.org 18 JUNE

JAPAN FESTIVAL With the aim of attracting at least 300 attendees, the festival has additional activities planned this year including Japanese arts and crafts, traditional Taiko drumming, Japanese games for kids, Japanese calligraphy (Shodo), kimono-wearing, tea ceremony demonstrations, Japanese martial arts (Kendo/ Karate), oriental snacks and much more. 12pm-4.30pm, Free.

Museum of East Asian Art; www. meaa.org.uk 8 JULY

THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS Kenneth Grahame’s evergreen tales of the riverbank are adapted here by award-winning theatre company Box Tale Soup. Relive

the antics of Mole, Ratty, Badger and the gregarious, car-loving Toad as they attempt to recapture Toad Hall from the weasels and stoats of the Wild Wood.

Charming entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. 2pm-4pm, £8. The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk

IMAGE CREDIT: THE BRUTALIST PLAYGROUND BY ASSEMBLE AND SIMON TERRILL. INSTALLATION PHOTO TAKEN AT S1 ARTSPACE, SHEFFIELD, 2016. PHOTOGRAPHY ALUN BULL RIBA

Other 3 – 1 8 JU N E

BLUE SKY FESTIVAL The festival is a joyous, warm, quirky celebration of the arts featuring performances, exhibitions and workshops.

One of the stars of the festival is TV personality Lucy Porter who will bring her hilarious stand-up comedy show of heartfelt personal revelations and incisive culture observations. The Pickwick Painters will showcase their work, the blockbuster hit La La Land will be screened and there will be a host of other performances, live music and comedy shows. The festival is held at various locations in Corsham. To find out more, visit www.blueskyfestival.org.uk 1 4 JU N E

CHOCOLATE TASTING WITH VERVE Calling all chocolate lovers Indie interiors store Verve are giving their love of all things individually crafted a different twist this June. They invite you to come and discover the world of fine artisanal chocolate, with Bathbased Tracy Chapman, one of the world’s first certified chocolate tasters. She will be on hand to take you on a tasting journey and to introduce you to chocolate as you’ve never experienced it before. Free. Verve Living; www.verveliving.uk 1 7 JU N E – 3 1 AUG UST

TORCHLIT EVENINGS AT THE ROMAN BATHS Experience a magical torchlit tour of the Roman Baths, where you’ll see the ancient spa brought to dazzling life under rows of flaming torches. For a more complete evening, the special twilight ticket includes a threecourse dinner at the Roman Baths Kitchen. Or for an even bigger treat, there are packages that include a four-course meal

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

Top to bottom: Turner prize winners Assemble and Simon Terrill present their part sculpture hybrid at The Edge; Trees on River Bank ink and wash by Keiron Leach

at the glamorous Pump Room Restaurant and an evening at the Thermae Bath Spa. £15.50 £84.50. Last entry 9pm.

The Roman Baths; www.romanbaths.co.uk 25 J UNE

DOROTHY HOUSE BUBBLE RUSH 5K Get ready to run, jog or walk your way along the 5km route through a sea of colourful bubbles at the world-renowned Castle Combe

Circuit. The fun and foamy circuit will take you through four “bubble stations” where highpowered foam cannons will blow out 30 cubic metres a minute of bright, frothy bubbles. There are no age restrictions and the route is child friendly. It’s not a race, just a fun day out and there will also be food, live entertainment and lots of children’s activities.

11am - 3pm. Castle Combe Circuit, Chippenham; www.dorothyhouse.org.uk

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

THE HEAT IS ON R W KNIGHT & SON are local heating specialists with over 40 years of experience

O

ur stove business started in the summer of 1974, when Dick Knight bought a Jotul stove from Norway to heat his draughty, damp farm house. This improved the feel of the whole house and made him enthuse to anyone and everyone as to how good the stove was. This coincided with the oil crisis and Dutch Elm disease. Dick slowly did less farming and diversified into selling stoves.

Now over 40 years on, Dick’s son Henry runs the business. We have chosen to work with a carefully selected number of leading manufacturers so customers can have confidence that the products supplied will be a benefit to their homes and give many years of reliable service.

What we do Retail and wholesale supply of contemporary and traditional wood, gas and electric stoves, from leading manufacturers. We have over 100 on display, many working and in fire place settings. We also sell stove spares and glass, accessories, baskets, patio heaters, outdoor fires,

flues, chimneys and cleaning equipment. We offer extensive product and installation knowledge and a showroom in a country setting.

Charity open days Friday 7th and Saturday 8th July, 9-5 To celebrate our 43rd anniversary we have chosen three charities: Macmillan, Great Western Air Ambulance and Mind. These organisations have helped staff members, family and friends of ours at R W Knight & Son and the money raised will be distributed between them.

• Complimentary refreshments will be served on both days • 10% of the value of all sales during the event will be donated to charity, and 5% of stove sales within the following four weeks (with a voucher collected from the open days) • Free fuel and stove welcome pack for customers who purchase a stove • Charity raffle, charity auction and guess how many stoves sold in 43 years (closest wins prizes) • Chat to the manufacturers and pick up tips on how to use your stove more economically.

Castle Farm, Marshfield, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 8HU. Our showroom is four miles from junction 18 of the M4, between Bristol, Bath and Chippenham; Tel: 01225 891469 Website: www.knight-stoves.co.uk Email: enquiries@knight-stoves.co.uk

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10 York Street, Bath BA1 1NH 01225 447920 leatherchairs.co.uk

BOOKS

ARTS

WE LEARN THE POWER OF THAT HOLY GRAIL OF WORDS, ‘SORRY’, BUT NOT BEFORE WE’VE HAD A LOT OF FUN ALONG THE WAY

SMALL PRINT This week, we discover the children’s books which brilliantly tackle tricky emotions, family life and monsters under the bed

By N IC BO T T OM L E Y

I

must admit that when I’m reaching for a book to read to pre-schoolers, I tend to avoid the ones that have a life lesson careering through them like a juggernaut. Of course there’s nothing wrong with a little learning by example as the book’s character feels their way through life, but often the message is spoon-fed in such an obvious manner that the book omits the crucial bit – the story.

One author who is proving herself incredibly adept at striking the perfect balance, though, is Ame Dyckman.

In some prior issue of Bath Life, now lingering deep in your recycling bin (or your leather-bound collector’s binder), I gave a rave review to Dyckman’s last book, Wolfie the Bunny. That story struck the perfect balance between comedy and behavioural messaging around welcoming in new family members (even if you’re a rabbit and the incoming sibling is a wolf ). Now the paperback of Dyckman’s follow-up Horrible Bear! (Andersen Press, £6.99) is out in which

we learn the power of that holy grail of words, ‘sorry’, but not before we’ve had a lot of fun along the way.

The oversized bear in the title gets extremely cross when he is rudely awoken by a little girl stomping into his cave to get her kite. But of course that’s not how she sees it – all she can focus on, as her tantrum builds, is that the ‘horrible bear’ broke her kite! Never mind ‘horrible bear’, ‘horribly familiar’ springs to mind. And, just like real life, the cliff-hanger is whether or not either of these aggrieved players is ever going to utter a game-changing apology.

Another commonly encountered stumbling block of young lives was tackled brilliantly and subversively by Cressida Cowell long before she turned her pen to dragon training. In Emily Brown and the Thing, she introduced us to a little girl (and her loyal bunny, Stanley) who are truly excellent at getting to sleep each night. Until that is, a crying monster out on the window ledge keeps them awake one evening with

his tears’ giant splashes.

It soon emerges that the monster has lost his cuddly outside – he probably dropped it in the deep, dark woods. Fortunately, fearless Emily is on hand to lead him off on the first of several high-adrenalin adventures that prove necessary in order to reassure the monster (AKA ‘The Thing’) that he’s no longer scared and that he can now drop off to sleep. And once he’s tucked safely up beneath Emily’s bed – where all friendly monsters should reside – that’s exactly what he does.

Of course, there are occasions where a more up-front discussion of tricky emotions is needed. A Book of Feelings by Amanda McCardie and illustrated by the wonderful Salvatore Rubbino (Walker, £11.99) is a book for just those moments as it weaves its way through the labyrinth of feelings that are encountered in the everyday life of a child.

Taking Sam, Kate and Fuzzy Bean the dog as our guides, we begin with a reminder that, most of the time, if we’re lucky, day-to-day life with our families makes us feel happy.

But then there are those trickier moments – when we feel embarrassed or shy or nervous, or perhaps just angry or when tears come (and they seem to come for a confusing number of different reasons). By reading about Sam and Kate going through those moments, we get to see that everyone experiences the same range of feelings, even the ‘squirmy, scribbly ones’ but that if everyone supports one another and listens at those moments, the good feelings can soon win out again.

And to be honest, as long as the good feelings keep winning – and as long as there’s a lot of laughter – then youngsters will enjoy reading almost any book they share with us, and will learn a little about life along the way.

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

Furniture – Styling – Art – Accessories

FONTHILL garden centre A family run business that’s been growing since 1967.

SUMMER EVENT We d 1 4 J u n e 6 - 9 p m See website for details

BATH ROAD, BITTON, BRISTOL 0117 932 3110 OPEN MON-SAT 8.30-5.30 SUN 10.30-4.30 ver veliving.uk 15 Walcot Buildings. London Rd. BA1 6AD 07785 332536 | 07712 467347

www.fonthill-lakeside.com

Laundry Services Tailored repairs and alterations Suede and Leather Cleaning

20% off curtain cleaning Van service available 6 Monmouth Place, Bath BA1 2AU Tel 01225 311595

FILM

ARTS

Rachel Weisz has the title role in the adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s My Cousin Rachel; Alone in Berlin is the tense story of how a couple dared to try to organise resistance against the Nazis; Hampstead stars Brendan Gleeson and Diane Keaton; Brian Cox plays the cigar-chomping PM in Churchill

super cameo in Mindhorn). So, do park yourself in front of this fabulous garden of delights and don’t beat about the bush neither.

Brendan Gleeson pops up again as one half of the leading couple in Alone in Berlin, the tense story of how a couple in wartime Berlin

IT IS AN INSPIRING STORY OF WHAT PEOPLE CAN DO IN THE MOST THREATENING OF CIRCUMSTANCES

DARKEST DAYS The sun finally breaking through the clouds isn’t reason enough to keep you out of a darkened cinema; there are just too many sinister, twisted movies to miss at the moment…

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

A

s I write this, beams of sunshine streak their blessed way across the square outside the cinema, guided tours bustle past the Cross Bath, and the merry tunes of sunkissed buskers drift in on the heated air… until I shut the window so I can blooming well concentrate on writing. Yes, summer is on its way back hereabouts, which is often the cue for quiet times in arthouse cinema, but, I’m glad to say, there’s lots coming up I can heartily recommend, from adventures on Hampstead Heath to wartime woes. But first, something’s brewing out on the Cornish moors.

The pen of Daphne du Maurier has produced more cinematic gems than most.

Hitchcock famously was rather keen and made three corkers from her books, of which The Birds is for me a real high flier. Every right to crow about that one, Daphne had. Another fab adaptation was the uber-creepy Don’t Look Now, which has put me off ever going to Venice. Especially if it means accompanying murderous short individuals sporting red coats.

Now along comes My Cousin Rachel, which has plenty of the gothy dread that DdM was famous for. Rachel Weisz is the woman in the title role, and she happens to be based on the subject of a portrait hanging in Antony House in Cornwall, which I have visited once or

twice and can recommend heartily. Anyway, I digress. The story’s all about the somewhat sinister Rachel, cousin to Philip and wife to Ambrose, Philip’s guardian. Ambrose is not a well man and regularly takes off for foreign climes to seek a cure. Ambrose’s letters start to get decidedly darker as time goes by, until the poor chap passes away, apparently from a brain tumour. Did Rachel play a part in the death? And what is behind her return to the family estate now? You’ll have to watch and see.

Excellent performances and a terrific Rebeccalike atmos combine to make this Cornish cracker a decidedly moreish treat.

More heathland-set drama now, albeit more of an urban character. Hampstead stars Brendan Gleeson as a chap living out on the famous London patch of wilderness, an area much loved by countless naturalists and, er, outdoor sports enthusiasts. An American widow falls for Mr G’s beardy charm and together they take on developers keen on trashing this corner of Eden in pursuit of dosh. But hang on, who’s this, playing the widow? Only blinking Diane Keaton, that’s who. Such is the rarity of a performance from this movie goddess, especially in a British film, that this is worth seeing for this reason alone. Luckily, this is a great story, well told with some splendid nuggets of talent popping up, including Leslie Manville and Simon Callow (who had such a

dared to try to organise resistance against the Nazis. Emma Thompson plays his wife and Daniel Bruhl the dogged German investigator trying anything but his wurst to nail the pair, while nurturing a sneaking respect for their courage and ingenuity. Based on the novel Every Man Dies Alone, which was, in turn, based on actual Gestapo files, this has an authenticity and grimness that grips from the off. Most of all, it’s an inspiring story of what people can do in the most threatening of circumstances.

Do we really want another film about the greatest ever Briton and/or talking dog with insurance expertise? Oh yes. Especially when it’s starring Brian Cox as the cigar-chomping PM who saw us through this nation’s darkest days with a rock solid assurance and neverdimming optimism. Or did he? That’s the nub of what Churchill is all about – it takes a look at what doubts and fears plagued our secretly depressive leader in the build up to the D-Day landings, and how he depended on Clemmie (played by Miranda Richardson) for so much of his ability to get the job done, or even just to get through the day. Today, in an era when everything is open to scrutiny and all is ceaselessly publicised, it’s hard to imagine how he managed to present to Britain, to Germany and to the world, a dogged persona somewhat at odds with the fragile individual within. It is this vulnerability that makes his story all the more inspiring: if he could do it, perhaps the rest of us can steel ourselves to meet the odd challenge too.

Never, never, never give up, is what Mr Churchill was fond of saying, and I’m minded to agree. Apart from when you’ve gone past your word total, at which point it’s best to consider calling it a day 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

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

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Piattino This Italian restaurant’s small plate offering – put together by a talented 20-year-old head chef – teams with live music and a diverse wine list to grab your attention

By L I SA E VA NS

I

f I had to choose a single dish on the menu at Piattino which sums up the eatery, it would be the guancia di maiale. That’s fall-apart pork cheek, which has the depth of flavour that can only come from slow-cooking – for 14 hours in this case – in a rich Sangiovese wine reduction.

It comes smothered in a smoky, tangy barbeque sauce, is teamed with chestnut halves and a golden croquette of Caerphilly cheese, for local flair, and is crowned with an edible purple flower.

To me, it represents everything Piattino is, all presented beautifully on a single plate: it’s authentically Italian with a British twist, it only offers top-quality ingredients, it’s as far from cookie-cutter high street as you can get, and it’s thoughtfully presented with a fun, lively edge.

Even though we’re visiting on one of their quieter evenings, the energy and excitement in the venue (formerly home to Sardinian joint Aió) is palpable, and jazz and blues artists play here regularly in the secondary dining area at the back of the restaurant. The atmosphere it exudes isn’t an accident; the aim for the eatery – as envisioned by co-owners Daniele Quaglietta, Andrea Lamanna and Carmine Manfredi – was for it to be a space in which diners felt comfortable in engaging in enriching conversation and conviviality while experiencing the very best that Italian culture and cuisine has to offer.

For today, we’re sat in the first dining area at the front of the restaurant which is flooded with light and space, and although there’s no musicians’ stage in this room, it’s clear when you step through the door that music is an intrinsic part of the offering. If the decorative saxophones and guitars don’t give the game away, then the wall mural dedicated to the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Freddie Mercury and Jim Morrison will make it clear.

Another main focus here is the wine bar. It specialises in Italian wines but also extends beyond the borders into new world options – all from small vineyards – and customers are encouraged to come along just for a few drinks, and maybe some nibbles, such as individual meats and cheeses, if a whole Italian feast isn’t on the cards.

Piattino, after all, translates to ‘small plates’ and there are a lot of them on the menu – even the pizzas (or ‘pizzettes’), made using their own Neopolitan-style dough,

IT’S AUTHENTICALLY

ITALIAN WITH A BRITISH TWIST AND IS AS FAR FROM COOKIECUTTER HIGH STREET AS YOU CAN GET

come in a personalised portions so that you can try several other dishes without becoming overwhelmed by carbs.

A selection of freshly baked Bertinet Bakery breads with oil and balsamic vinegar imported from Italy are first to arrive to our table. This is served along with burratina – a buttery, delicate cheese made from mozzarella and cream – which is scattered with pistachios and sundried tomatoes and topped with a risotto rice crisp.

Then comes the spiedino, a very generous small plate indeed, which consists of hunks of nicely charred pork sausage, fillet steak, free-range chicken and grilled vegetables suspended on a skewer over a bed of fried courgette and pastella. Next out are three crumb-coated aubergine balls stuffed with pine nuts, sundried tomatoes and basil, as well as a portion of homemade, soothing gnocchi served with crispy pancetta, cream, rocket and olive pesto.

As soon as there’s space on the table, out come the I pazzarelli – four mini deep-fried dough parcels which are puffed up like doughnuts, blistered at the edges and topped with tomato sauce and fragments of aged parmesan. And finally it’s the turn of the tofu mousse-filled champignon mushrooms which rest on a rich, sweet stewlike bed of slow-cooked cherry tomatoes and onions which has such intensity and such conviction that you’ll be glad you saved a pazzarelli to dredge through the remainder. All of this becomes even more impressive when you learn that the head chef, Giuseppe Curci, is only 20 years of age.

Despite having no room for dessert, we power through and order three. The first is the icing sugar-dusted crostatine del bosco, three mini tarts filled with pasticcera cream and fresh fruits; the second is the crostatine della passione, yet another three tarts, this time packed with pistachio mousse, passion fruit cream, and white chocolate; and, my favourite dish of the entire evening, the tiramisu with coffee crumble and amaretto liqueur. Daniele suggests that we enjoy these with a glass of the opulent recioto della valpolicella wine as its classic notes of plum and raspberry and its edge of spice and cocoa would pair perfectly with the desserts’ rich flavour combinations. He was spot-on.

You could effortlessly while away an entire evening grazing your way through the menu in a leisurely fashion here, and in a month or so you’ll have another reason to give your hours to Piattino when their quaint back garden will be open. There, you can go al fresco and soak up the rays of the day, but, having said that, you can do that already in their bistro-style area out front which overlooks Milsom Street. Do you really need any more motivation to book a table? We didn’t think so.

DINING DETAILS Piattino, 7 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath, BA1 2EE; 01225 443900; www.piattinobath.com Prices Small plates and sharing platters range from £2.30 – £14.60; desserts £3.30 – £5.80 Drinks Being a wine bar, Piattino offers an extensive list of classic and new world wines ranging from £17.50 to £50 a bottle Service/atmosphere A laid-back yet fun restaurant and bar, which puts an emphasis on the experience

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

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

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

BRITISH 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” CLIFTON SAUSAGE 5 Bladud Buildings, Bath; 01225 433633; www.cliftonsausage.co.uk Upmarket sausage and mash restaurant and bar newly opened in Bath 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 HENRYS 4 Saville Row, Bath; 01225 780055; www.henrysrestaurantbath.com Imaginative modern dining offering a classic menu and also full vegetarian and vegan menus JOHANN LAFER, THE GAINSBOROUGH Beau St, Bath; 01225 358888; www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk Menus inspired by Johann Lafer’s “Dining Without Borders” philosophy MENU GORDON JONES 2 Wellsway, Bath; 01225 480871; www.menugordonjones.co.uk Multi award winning fine dining with constantly changing surprise tasting menu THE OLIVE TREE RESTAURANT, THE QUEENSBERRY HOTEL Russell St, Bath; 01225 447928; www.thequeensberry.co.uk One of Bath’s longest established restaurants, overseen by Chris Cleghorn with 3 AA rosettes 66 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

WOODS 9-13 Alfred St, Bath; 01225 314812 www.woodsrestaurant.com legendary Bath dining institution serving French influenced British cuisine

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

CAFÉS & COFFEE SHOPS

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

CAFÉ LUCCA 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; 01225 335394; 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 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 LOCKSBROOK INN 103 Locksbrook Rd, Bath; 01225 427119; www.thelocksbrookinn.com Recently opened canal side gastropub in Bath, open every day for drinks, brunch, coffee, lunch, evening meals and grazing in between THE MARLBOROUGH TAVERN 35 Marlborough Buildings; 01225 423731; www.marlborough-tavern.com Award winning gastropub using seasonal local produce THE NEW INN 24 Monmouth Place, Bath; 01225 442944; www.newinnbath.co.uk Burgers and bar snacks with cask and craft ale and beers

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

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

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

KING WILLIAM 36 Thomas St, Bath; 01225 428096; www.kingwilliampub.com Pub with an upstairs dining room serving a modern British menu based on west country produce

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

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

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

ITALIAN

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

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

STEAK HOUSES

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

PIZZA

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

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

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

KOH THAI TAPAS 36 Broad St, Bath 01225 311232; www.koh-thai.co.uk Award winning small Thai tapas plates and cocktails

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

TAPAS

THAI BY THE WEIR 16 Argyle St, Bath 01225 444834; www.thaibytheweir.co.uk Restaurant overlooking the weir, serving a classic Thai menu

TAPAS REVOLUTION 20A St Lawrence St, Bath; 01225 312917 www.tapasrevolution.com/bath Newly opened authentic Spanish Tapas

THAI

OUTSIDE of BATH BRITISH 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 GEORGE AT WOOLLEY 67 Woolley St, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1AQ; 01225 865650; www.thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk Recently refurbished gastropub from award winning team HOMEWOOD PARK Abbey Lane, Freshford, Bath BA2 7TB 01225 723731; www.homewoodpark.co.uk Luxury hotel with two rosette restaurant and spa 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 Lane, Whitely, Wilts, SN12 8QX; 01225 704966; www.peartreewhitley.co.uk An elegant revamped country inn with an acclaimed restaurant and contemporary rustic-chic bedrooms THE WHEELWRIGHTS ARMS Church Lane, Monkton Combe, BA2 7HB; 01225 722287; www.wheelwrightsarms.co.uk Pub featuring modern takes on British classics, plus understated, individually decorated guestrooms

FARM SHOPS ALLINGTON FARM SHOP Allington Bar Farm, Allington, Chippenham SN14 6LJ; 01249 658112; www.allingtonfarmshop.co.uk Shop and Café selling local produce

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

Enjoy Bath’s finest & freshest local produce delivered to your door.

By bike. For free.

THREE

BAGS

FULL

– IT’S BETTER BY BIKE

www.threebagsfulldelivery.co.uk | 07415 841841

Fortune Inn

Chinese Restaurant & Traditional Pub

Chinese

cuis

ine Serve fo od all d ay Lunch Sp Chines ecial e Tapas Openin gh 12pm-1 our 1pm

INDEPENDENTLY OWNED FOR OVER 30 YEARS. THIS COSY CAFE HAS BEEN A FAVOURITE OF LOCALS AND VISITORS ALIKE. The Courtyard Cafe is situated just a stone’s throw away from Bath Abbey in the historic Lilliput Court.

Superior Chinese, Szechuan & Authentic Chinese Cuisine within a fully air conditioned restaurant near the heart of Wiltshire market town, Chippenham.

Function room available with capacity for up to 50 people

The home made food is hearty and chef Kirsty’s cakes are quite moorish, making this cafe a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or a quick stop for a little something sweet.

115 Sheldon Road, Chippenham, SN14 ODA 01249 661382 | www.fortuneinn.co

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

The creator of Tapas Revolution Omar Allibhoy

Dan Miles has been cracking in the kitchen

NO.15 SHOWS OFF NEW CHEF

For more: www.tapasrevolution.com

For more: www.no15greatpulteney.co.uk

PHOTO BY MARTIN POOLE

book in September of last year.

Dishes at the new Bath restaurant will be freshly prepared in-house by a team of Spanish chefs using ingredients sourced from some of the best artisan producers across Spain.

Omar wants to bring a new dining experience to Bath, he said of his new venture, “I think Bath diners will like our tapas bar concept. We bring the bar element, the café element and the restaurant altogether.”

No.15 Great Pulteney, Bath’s newest boutique hotel, recently announced the appointment of Dan Miles as head chef.

The 29-year-old brings his infectious enthusiasm for great-tasting, simple food and locally sourced ingredients to the hotel, fresh from his most recent role as sous chef at The Gainsborough Bath Spa. Dan said about his new role, “I am thrilled to join the team at No.15. The hotel is one of the most exciting openings in Bath and the quirky yet relaxed atmosphere has so much to inspire new and exciting developments in the kitchen. I’m looking forward to creating simple, accessible, family-style sharing dishes that people really want to eat, using the best quality seasonal ingredients.”

In his role at No.15, Dan will look to bring touches of Bath’s rich history and its great loves, particularly rugby, into his dishes. The offering you can expect at the hotel restaurant include dishes such as beer battered Cornish plaice with crushed minted peas, tartare sauce and triple-cooked chips; ricotta gnocchi with spring vegetables and crème fraîche; and homemade sweet treats such as custard creams and peanut brittle.

IT’S A REVOLUTION Tapas Revolution in SouthGate finally opened its doors on 1 June, bringing authentic Spanish tapas to Bath.

Owner and celebrity chef Omar Allibhoy is originally from Madrid and has opened six restaurants in the UK. On top of managing his restaurants, Omar regularly appears on TV shows including Saturday Kitchen, Sunday Brunch and This Morning. His first cookbook Tapas Revolution was the fastest selling Spanish cookbook of 2013, and he published his follow-up recipe

Fashion/gifts/stores/more

PICK OF THE BUNCH

From 19 to 25 June, British Flowers Week will sweep the nation as we celebrate the UK flower industry and all the beautiful blooms we grow here.

Last month, people from around the world travelled to the internationally renowned Chelsea Flower Show to be inspired by nature’s own art, and this month British Flowers Week takes the baton to showcase the best of independent florists and locally-grown, fresh-cut flowers.

So after you’ve gone out to purchase some lovely buds to mark the occasion, you’ll need somewhere to put them, and we think these fun, quirky ceramic animal vases make for the ideal vessels.

Each adorable creature is carefully crafted and hand painted to become a lovable accessory for your home, no matter whether your décor is rustic, shabby chic or ultra modern.

One of these vases on your table or mantelpiece is sure to stand out and become a conversationstarter for anyone who walks through your front door.

From £48 at Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

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

3 2

1

The CYCLE of LIFE 4

WHETHER YOU WERE ONE OF THE THOUSANDS OF SPECTATORS INSPIRED BY THE TOUR SERIES IN BATH LAST MONTH, OR IF YOU’RE TAKING PART IN BATH BIKE ON 2 JULY OR BIKE WEEK STARTING 10 JUNE, HERE ARE A FEW ITEMS FOR THOSE WHO LOVE TO BE ON TWO WHEELS…

5

1. OH, CHARMING

2. BE-SPOKE

3. BALANCING ACT

4. STAG, YOU’RE IT

5. ENJOY THE RIDE

Bicycle charm, £48 Mirabelle founder Veronique Henry embraces the ethos that jewellery has the power to uplift the spirits and elevate moods From Anthropologie, 1-4 New Bond Street, Bath; www.anthropologie.com

Greeting card, £3.50 A colourful and beautiful range of Wildflower Illustration Co’s delicately hand-drawn card designs are available at The Foodie Bugle in Bath From The Foodie Bugle Shop, 2 Abbey Street, Bath; www. thefoodiebugleshop.com

Mindful Thoughts for Cyclists book, £5.99 Cycling is about more than competitive racing, lycra, and physical endurance; it’s about joy, and spiritual enrichment according to author Nick Moore From Vinegar Hill, 16 Milsom Street, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk

Penny-farthing tea towel, £12 From the new Dapper Deer collection comes this quintessentially British penny-farthing design which is sure to be a hit with bicycle enthusiasts From Avenida Home, 27 Walcot Street, Bath; www.avenidahome.com

Shaard personalised charms, £2.50 each Choose from the full alphabet of silver-plated, hand-stamped miniature charms to customise a piece of jewellery From French Grey Interiors, 1 Burton Street, Bath, www. frenchgreyinteriors.co.uk

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

ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING

7

8

6

9

10

6. ROLL UP

7. LOVE HANDLES

8. FAST TRACK

9. QUICK FIX

10. BUILT FOR TWO

Circus Bear on a Bike print, £15 Perfect for a baby’s room, this Petra Boase artwork, with its sweet design and florescent colours, is from a limited edition of 100 signed and numbered prints From Spotty Herberts, 5 Queen Street, Bath; www.spottyherberts.com

Ride My Bike necklace, £12.99 Make a statement with this silver necklace featuring a tiny vintage bike. Great for layering with other necklaces, or wear with a plain tee From Mistral, 20 New Bond Street, Bath; www.mistral-online.com

Garmin Edge 520 GPS computer, £249.99 With automatic uploads, live tracking, smart notifications and savvy social media sharing, this GPS device is for serious bike-nuts From Johns Bikes, 82-84 Walcot Street, Bath; www.johnsbikes.co.uk

On Your Bike repair kit, £15 Presented in a retroinspired tin, this kit includes tyre levers, a multi-function bike tool and a wrench among other handy knick-knacks From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

Fruity Scooty notebook, £4.50 Record notes, ideas and thoughts on the go in this charismatic, quirky and colour-popping notebook From Santoro London, 32 Milsom Street, Bath; www.santoro-london.com

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CHILD’S PLAY Whether it’s designer fashion for tots, eclectic toys, or child-friendly foodie treats you’re looking for, we’ve rummaged through some of the best Bathbased shops for children, to find out what’s popular right now…

By L I SA E VA NS

Family-run boutique Minimis offers sophisticated fashion for children

KIDS

SHOPPING

What are your most popular items?

For boys, it’s classic T-shirts from the likes of Hilfiger, Gant and Hackett; and for girls, dresses from both Carrément Beau and Billieblush.

Share a surprising shop story…

We stock a T-shirts with the slogan ‘Darth Vader is my Father’ on. We came to realise through talking to our customer that she was purchasing one to be dispatched to the son of the actor who plays Darth Vader in Star Wars, which was very exciting indeed. www.minimis.co.uk

SLEEPY DOE

The Bath-based business specialises in sleep and loungewear for babies, children and mothers.

Although they have over 40 stockists worldwide – including Bath’s Spotty Herberts – founder Sophie Woodrow says the focus is hyper local

PHOTO BY ASH JAMES

Is staying local important to you?

Yes. Our products are designed in Bath and ethically manufactured in the U.K. My partner, Dan, even cycles around Bath delivering the local orders – this helps us stick to our focus of being as eco and ethical as possible.

I

t’s always exciting discovering a new children’s boutique out of the realms of the high street. So here are a handful of our favourites – from an international, yet Bath-based, PJ specialist who transports deliveries in the city on a push bike, to a magical toy shop where you’ll find grass on the floor and trees growing through the ceiling

Above: Bath-based Sleepy Doe specialises in loungewear for babies, children and mothers; below: a Bath blogger has launched her first range of products, called Meals and Makes, which combine food and creativity

MINIMIS CLOTHING LTD

The online, family-run boutique, based near Bath, offers sophisticated fashion for children aged 2-10.

Owner Anni Dahl Bush tells us more Why did you set up the business?

We realised, as our own children grew up, that finding stylish, good-quality clothing at competitive prices was difficult. We felt there was a defined gap for an age-appropriate, fashionbased kids clothing business.

How would you describe the clothing?

The look is ‘kids with swagger’ – real stand-out, statement pieces. We want to create the ultimate ‘mini me’ look for the style-conscious parent.

From high-fashion French designers to traditional British brands, we’ve carefully selected clothing lines specifically to create a unique store.

MY PARTNER

CYCLES

What’s the most important thing a child’s clothing brand should offer?

To be transparent about where the clothes are made. Being a small independent business, it’s hard to compete with high street prices and their constant promotions. Disposable clothes are often made from cotton grown using pesticides which damage the ecosystem, on top of toxic dyes being used which damage both the planet and workers’ health. There’s something very reassuring about putting your child to bed for the night in a product that’s been ethically made, is super soft against their skin and knowing you’re supporting your city’s family-run businesses.

Describe your designs…

They’re timeless, with subtle details that last season upon season without being over-designed or trend-driven. I also don’t separate genders within the ranges and I think it’s important to offer unisex options. www.sleepydoe.com w

AROUND DELIVERING THE LOCAL ORDERS

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KIDS

SANTORO LONDON

Set up in 1985 by Lucio and Meera Santoro as a London design house, Santoro’s first ever physical shop is in Bath. At the store, you’ll find collections for women, children and the home. Company director Goddie Quaye tells us more What products for children do you specialise in?

For over three decades, Santoro has designed and created beautiful things for adults and children to cherish. Our products range from beautiful fashion items and quirky stationery essentials to eclectic gift pieces and beautiful 3D paper art and greeting cards.

Tell us about your most unusual item...

Our Gorjuss Dolls are a real treasured item for kids and big kids (or ‘adults’ as they are more commonly labelled). We have devoted collectors across the entire Gorjuss collection.

What’s the most important consideration in designing products for young people?

We start off by creating unique collections – fusing our love of art with our flair for fashion.

Aside from the safety and practicality, the biggest thing for us is to put the ‘fun’ into functionality.

The original artworks will inspire young minds – so much so that our customers remain loyal to the brands right into adulthood.

Above: The aim at Spotty Herberts is for kids to feel comfortable to explore and enjoy; left: Santoro London’s designs range from paper art to stationary

What sets you apart from other companies in the same line of business?

Working with original artworks brings a whole different depth and sentimentality to our pieces.

It’s this approach that means our unique appeal transcends age, culture and background.

32 Milsom Street, Bath; www.santoro-london.com

ROSSITERS OF BATH

The family-owned, design-led department store, run by Peter and Ann-Marie James, is complete with a popular children’s department. Here, AnnMarie discusses the magic of toys Your children’s department sits right at the heart of your ground floor, tell us about what it offers…

It’s filled with wonderful things, whether you’re looking for a soft toy for a toddler or a water gun for a teen. We love wonderful traditional toys which encourage imaginative play, so there is a huge emphasis on natural materials like wood, especially for younger children. We also have a great range of retro and garden toys, and plenty for those who love tricks and pranks.

What makes your offering stand out?

Its expansive range and its emphasis on w 82 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Call (01225) 666 226 | Email: info@minimis.co.uk | Web: www.minimis.co.uk

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also stock items by nationally known designers including Lizzie Shirt, Funky Feet, Frugi and Knicky Knitwear.

What are your most popular items?

Our famous strawberry hats and Christmas pudding hats.

What are the most important aspects when it comes to children’s clothing?

Comfort and fun.

6 Pulteney Bridge, Bath; www.uptoseven.co.uk

SPOTTY HERBERTS

At this shop on one of Bath’s oldest cobbled streets, you’ll find British-brand children’s clothing plus toys and treasures from around the world. Kate Austin, who co-owns the store with Emily Ingram, tells us more

traditional toys. You will find a huge number of cross-generational classics that allow parents, teens and younger children to interact.

Above: At Rossiters of Bath, there is a focus on traditional toys which encourage imaginative play; below: Sleepy Doe’s subtle designs aim to be timeless rather than trend-driven

What’s your most popular item right now?

Kids love to tease, so our jokes and magic tricks always prove popular. Whoopee cushions sell out almost as fast as we can get them, and rude noise machines, finger guillotines and fake blood are all well-liked. Our fun toiletries are also very popular for girls – perfect for a pyjama party.

What about your most impressive item?

Everyone stops to cuddle our Jellycat Really Big Bunny. He’s bigger than many toddlers, but they all love him.

What elements comprise the ideal toy?

Toy ranges should be about fun and entertainment, so not everything needs to have a lesson attached to it. Play does have a major role in a child’s development, but gifts for kids should shout ‘treat’ not ‘chore’.

38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

UP TO SEVEN/ WALCOT WOOLLIES

In 1985, Walcot Woollies was established by Mary Dawson, an internationally renowned knitwear designer, to sell the items she made in her studio behind the shop in Walcot Street. In 2008, Walcot Woollies moved to a new shop and became Up to Seven which sells clothes for little ones. Mary tells us more

PLAY DOES HAVE A MAJOR ROLE IN

A CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT, BUT GIFTS FOR KIDS SHOULD

What are your most popular items?

We sell many gifts for newborns – teeny tiny T-shirts by Tootsa MacGinty, super soft rompers

by Bath-based Sleepy Doe, and natural rubber teethers and bath toys by Oli & Carol.

What sets your shop apart?

An absolute passion and enthusiasm for everything we do, and of course, the children who visit Spotty Herberts are extremely important to us. We know many of their names and remember details about their loves and pet hates. As it’s a shop for children, we want kids to feel really comfortable and at home here, as if they were visiting their favourite room in an exciting house.

What’s the best reaction you’ve had to one of your products…

We often hear lovely stories of children who just ‘won’t wear anything but the top, the dress or the shorts from Spotty Herberts’. One of our favourite customers has a sweater by Tootsa MacGinty.

Her mum tells us she has only recently agreed to wear anything but her ‘cloudy’ jumper. It had to be sneaked away and washed in time for the next day. She wore it solidly for around four months.

5 Queen Street, Bath; www.spottyherberts.com w

SHOUT

‘TREAT’ NOT ‘CHORE’

What sets your business apart from other children’s clothing shops?

Many of our clothes are designed and made in our studio workshop in Walcot Street and cannot be found elsewhere. We make dresses, reversible dungarees, knitwear and many more items. We www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 85

SHOPPING

KIDS

MY SMALL WORLD TOY STORE Owner Dawn Burden describes the magic of her shop which is filled to the brim with sturdy, cool and timeless toys

What can customers expect of your store?

It’s probably not like any other toy shop you’ve wandered into – every shelf and cubbyhole is filled with amazing discoveries. You’ll find toys from your childhood rubbing shoulders with new creations from exciting European toy designers.

It’s not just a shop, it’s an experience. From the grass on the floor to the trees growing through the ceiling, just strolling through the doors brings out your inner child.

What are your most popular offerings?

Our party service has become popular as people are on the hunt for special gift ideas. We’ll happily pack your little bags for you, and we loan out beautiful melamine beakers, plates and cake stands for free, too, so you don’t have to spend a fortune on disposable stuff.

What’s your most impressive item?

We’ve become famous for our amazing hot air balloons, but the incredible wooden treehouse in the window might just be the most Instagrammed item in the shop.

What makes a great toy shop?

As many opportunities as possible for families to discover and play together. Family life is always under a time pressure, that’s why we want your experiences with us to be as easy and stress-free as possible.

19-21 St Lawrence Street, SouthGate, Bath; www.mysmallworld.co.uk

CAMOMILE KIDS

The store specialises in quality used children’s goods, such as clothes, shoes, toys and books.

Jennifer Jennings-Wright, who co-owns the store with Natsuko Stroud, tells us more What makes your shop different?

Our tagline is ‘browse away as the children play’.

We recognise the difficulty of trying to shop with young children in tow and we’re happy to ease that pressure, that’s why we also offer an opportunity for children to play with the toys or read in-store, giving their parents a chance to look around in peace.

Have you encountered any heart-warming stories at the shop?

Funnily enough, an old, loved, battered toy lion was sitting on the shelf when we purchased the business. We kept it on the shelf, and about six months after opening, a young child came in with her mum and pointed at it. It was a very special lion which she had lost months before and had been looking for it ever since. Needless to say, both mum and child were thrilled, a scenario I’m sure a lot of parents can relate to.

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

Above: traditional toys rub shoulders with modern European designs at My Small World Toy Store

FROM THE GRASS ON THE FLOOR TO THE TREES GROWING THROUGH THE

CEILING,

JUST STROLLING THROUGH THE

DOORS

BRINGS OUT YOUR

INNER CHILD

What’s the best thing about working in a child-centred business?

It’s so satisfying to see so many items recycled.

Children wear and use things for such a short time, and quality brands go on forever, often going through several sets of children. Having run the business for years now, we’ve seen children go through the different stages and growing up. It really is a privilege to witness.

1 Combe Road, Bath, www.camomileclothes.vpweb.co.uk

MEALS AND MAKES

Bath blogger Kate Gordon-Brown has launched her first range of products which combine food and creativity to encourage kids to develop a love of cooking and nutrition and to banish fussy eating.

Kate tells us more What’s your story?

I am a mum of young twins, living in Bath. I have worked in the foodie industry for over 10 years and have a passion for good food and a taste for adventure. My blog combines ideas for family, cooking and creative play.

You’ve just launched a new product line for children, tell us about it…

It’s a selection of handmade activity kits for kids.

All of the ‘everything included’ kits have a fun, foodie theme, encouraging food positivity and giving parents emergency entertainment for their little ones. These packs are inexpensive, colourful and easy to use, making them ideal gifts.

What’s in the kits?

There are three ranges: Grow me; Colour me; and Sew me. Children can grow their own mini herb garden on their windowsill and turn the crop into a tasty meal; they can colour-in recipe pages; or maybe sew their own ice cream design. www.mealsandmakes.com

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CAR REVIEW

SCANDI MODERN The new V90 isn’t quite the load hauler that Volvos once were, but it’s still amongst the classiest of estate cars. Best of all, perhaps, it’s not German – and not as high as a Transit van

By M AT T BI E L BY

V

olvo is very much on a roll at the moment, and the new V90 is a stylish and likeable car that appeals to both head and heart: head, as it’s spacious, economical, well-made, well-priced, and heaves with safety kit, and heart, in that its sleek, minimalist cabin is a masterclass in Scandinavian chic. Long before huge SUVs stole the hearts of well-heeled middle England, Volvo estates – often in mustard, usually with a golden retriever in the back – were the sensible family workhorse of choice, and the V90 makes a great case for swerving the now-standard 4x4 for something a little more traditional.

Back in the day, big Volvos were styled along the lines of a shoebox – basically, a big yellow rectangle – but the first thing you notice about the V90 is that this is a much sleeker beast, with a surprisingly low roofline and a sharply raked rear screen. It makes 88 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 56 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

this car much sexier than Lovejoy’s old wardrobe-carrier, though it simultaneously robs it of the ultimate load hauling kudos that used to be Volvo’s birthright. Equivalent offerings from Audi, BMW and (especially) Mercedes actually beat it for volume, though they don’t necessarily have the Volvo’s low boot lip, usefully rectangular load space and touch-of-a-button folding rear seats: all actually more useful day-to-day than a few extra cubic litres. Still, that the V90 cedes supremacy here is a shame.

Beyond this, though, the big Volvo barely puts a wheel wrong.

SWEDE DREAMS

For a start there are the engines. Time was, such a big car would almost certainly have had a 3.0 litre V6 or similar, but Volvo has a commitment to much smaller 2.0 turbocharged four-cylinder options, which are surprisingly punchy as well as economical,

CAR REVIEW

Cool ‘Thor’s hammer’ headlights, sleek lines and a clean Scandi interior make this big Volvo most pleasing inside and out

with especially refined diesel variants (by far the most popular options). Indeed, only the smooth but occasionally dithery eight-speed automatic gearbox lets things down a little.

Though handling isn’t quite as engaging as you’d get with the likes of BMW, the Volvo is never less than relaxed and pleasant to drive, and comes so crammed with useful features and smart thinking that it seems on a constant low-key mission to impress. This is a supremely quiet cruiser, but with power when you need it: you get a composed ride most of the time, and there’s no wind noise (and little road noise either).

Inside, seats and leg space are excellent for four – even if the guys in front have their seats pushed back – and still pretty good with five, while visibility is top-notch everywhere except to the direct rear (don’t worry, reversing sensors are standard). An almost tablet-sized portrait infotainment screen makes controlling the car’s many functions reasonably intuitive, while the 560 litre boot is – like we say – big but not classleading, growing to 1,526 with the 60/40 split rear seats folded seamlessly flat. The airy interior is all soft curves, brilliant materials and just-so design: it’s like being inside a quality Scandinavian box set, but without all that messy killing.

Where the car makes an undeniable case for itself is in its generous equipment, great

build quality, and sense of restrained style, not to mention its endless safety features, from a standard emergency braking system designed to recognise large animals (plus people, cyclists, whatever you got) to a function that automatically steers you back into your motorway lane should you wander. Using it all, you initially get alarming moments where the car’s bells and whistles kick off over something close, but non-threatening, on crowded city streets, but after a few hours with it we could already feel the car turning us into safer, more careful drivers.

The last Volvo we tried – the excellent XC90 SUV, more expensive than the V90 but a genuine rival – shares many underpinnings with this car (as, of course, does the less iconic S90 saloon), and the fact that there’s a mildly jacked up 4x4 Cross Country version of the V90 also blurs the lines between the company’s various offerings.

This, though, might just be our everyday choice: good to drive, great to be in, handsomebut-understated, and quietly very clever indeed.

It’s not so much the automative equivalent of that overplayed term ‘hyyge’ – though it did leave us with warm and cosy feelings – so much as its newer, cooler cousin, ‘lagom’. That’s the Swedish term for ‘just right’.

More info: www.volvocarsbristol.co.uk

IT’S ALL SOFT CURVES, BRILLIANT MATERIALS AND JUST-SO DESIGN

AT A GLANCE Volvo V90 Prices: From £35,865 on the road, rising to well over £50k for the most expensive models loaded with options. Under the bonnet: Three (surprisingly small) 2.0-litre, four-cylinder options: the entry level two-wheel-drive D4 diesel (187bhp), the more potent four-wheel-drive D5 diesel (232bhp), and a rarer 320bhp T6 petrol for the Cross Country Pro models. All come with an 8-speed auto. Equipment specs: Entry level Momentum spec is pretty generous (you still get heated leather seats and an electric tailgate, for instance), but posher trim levels include the sporty R-Design and the luxury Inscription spec, both loaded with kit. Performance: Even the slowest version will do 140mph, and though the popular D5 doesn’t improve on that much, it will get to 60mph in a nippy 6.9 seconds. Theoretically, the D4 manages an impressive combined fuel economy figure of 62.8mpg (think more like 50mpg in real life usage). In a nutshell: A handsome, classy and well-priced alternative to premium German estate cars or the ubiquitous 4x4 SUV, and packed with original thinking and cool features. Dealer: City Motors, Castle Court, St Philips Causeway, Bristol BS4 3AX; 0117 332 2566; www.carcogroup.co.uk

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D E N T I S T S a d v e r ti s i n g feat u r e

Meet the dentist We catch up with some of the best dentists in Bath who provide a variety of dental treatments with a dazzling smile.

Dr Paul Vivian

Dave Stone

Widcombe Dental Practice 01225 317681 www.widcombe dentalpractice.co.uk

Avon House Dental Practice 01179 862992 www.avonhousedentalpractice. co.uk

Did you always want to be a dentist?

Absolutely! I am from a family of dentists, my grandfather, father, uncle and aunt were and are all dentists so it was the natural step for me.

What would surprise us about you?

I can juggle seven balls and have done the odd bit of fire breathing! The hand-to-eye coordination and manual dexterity of juggling sharpens my skills in my day job, but I wouldn’t recommend fire breathing as being very good for your teeth! I don’t do much clowning around but I do enjoy a good sense of humour and think that this can break down some of the anxieties that are often associated with visiting the dentist.

What’s your favourite sweet thing?

Crème Brulee – I really enjoy a well made Crème Brulee.

As an avid cook I have consciously decided not to learn how to make them otherwise I’d be eating them every day!

How do you spend your time at work?

The majority of my day is spent performing checkups, treatments, and Invisalign teeth straightening consultations. If I get a few minutes spare, then I like to relax and prepare with a good cup of tea (no sugar of course!)

When did you last visit the dentist?

Earlier this year - I have my checkups with my Aunt in Oxfordshire and usually try and coincide it with a lovely weekend trip away.

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

Describe your ideal day.

Commuting to work along the Two Tunnels and Bristol-Bath cycle path and completing a ‘smile makeover’ in time for someone’s special day. My ideal day would be finished off by visiting one of Bath’s many restaurants.

Were you good at brushing your teeth as a child?

I was a pretty stubborn child but tooth brushing was well drummed into me from quite a young age. This is obviously something I have passed on to my children, as they say, old habits die hard.

Dermot McNulty

Bath Spa Dentistry 01225 464346 www.bathspadentistry.com

How long have you been involved in dentistry?

I qualified in 1982 and have been practising implant dentistry since 1987, taking referrals from other dentists since 1995 when I set up Bath Spa Dentistry.

What does your typical day look like?

Every day is different, I could be in surgery all day, giving a new smile to a patient with a complete set of new fixed teeth, and the next I could be teaching, either my own implant courses in Bath or as a Course Director for the Royal College of Surgeons in London, Diploma in Implantology course.

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a dentist?

Meeting my patients, working with my team and helping people with their dental problems, and transforming people’s lives but also helping other dentists move forward in implant dentistry through teaching.

Describe your ideal day.

I enjoy clinical dentistry and I have chosen to involve myself predominantly in reconstructive dentistry using dental implants.

It has become a fast moving and innovative area of dentistry which can really change lives.

Lesley Lazzari

The Corsham Dental Practice 01249 715906 www.corshamdentalpractice. co.uk What is it that you specialise in?

I have a special interest in Adult Orthodontics, particularly straightening teeth using clear braces.

Recently I was awarded gold provider status for the popular Invisalign clear aligner system.

What is the best part of your job?

Seeing the positive change to someone’s confidence as their smile is transformed.

Many times patients come to me saying that they never smile because they don’t like their teeth which I find really sad as I smile a lot!

So being able to give patients a confident, beautiful smile in a very non-invasive way, is incredibly rewarding.

I also love being able to combine my artistic flair with science.

What is your favourite sweet thing?

Being born and brought up on the island of Jersey, it has got to be a large scoop of toffee fudge ice cream made from fresh Jersey milk!

It brings back many happy memories for me too.

a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e D E N T I S T S

Paul HR Wilson

Bath Dental Clinic 01225 333848 www.bathdentalclinic.co.uk

IAN BELLAMY

Aquae Sulis Dental 01225 339767 www.aquaesulisdental.co.uk

Chris Park

Little Dental Co @ Larkhall Dental Rooms; 01225 431231 www.littledental.co.uk

Circus House Dental & Implant Centre; 01225 952362 www.bathsmile.co.uk

How would you best define modern dentistry?

Dentistry has changed dramatically over the 20 years since I qualified. We are in the era of regeneration of damaged oral tissues. At Bath Dental Clinic we can now regrow lost bone, gum tissue and even stimulate damaged dental pulps. We also have the facility to image tissues using 3-Dimensional CT scanning and 3D printing is on the way. Dentistry is now about improving quality of life.

How would you best define modern dentistry?

Modern dentistry is the ability to use the latest technical advances to benefit our patients - from bioactive materials that help to repair teeth, to 3D imaging. These techniques allow us to make a major impact on our patients’ lives by restoring their teeth to give a natural, healthy appearance.

How would you define modern dentistry?

For anyone who has not had any dental work it’s a combination of education, prevention and minimal intervention. For those who have already had dental treatment the focus shifts towards function, preservation and longevity. We have some incredibly skilled clinicians and technicians, all of whom have a plethora of new materials with which to work.

This enables us to be ahead of the game with the ever increasing aesthetic demands that you rightly place upon us.

Did you always want to be a dentist?

I attended a dental technician course after I finished school and this triggered my interest in dentistry.

What have been your career highlights so far?

I have two highlights. One has been opening Bath Dental Clinic. It has been the culmination of 20 years of postgraduate training, and I have assembled a remarkable team who are patient-focused and strive for excellence.

Our clinic has been carefully planned to be a calm and inviting place, where state-ofthe-art specialist dental care is delivered. The second has been publishing a textbook with my mentor, the late Professor Crispian Scully CBE, who sadly passed away recently. The textbook is used by dental undergraduates in the UK and worldwide.

What might we be surprised to learn about you?

To reduce my carbon footprint, I sold my car and bought a folding bike. I commute to Bath Dental Clinic by bike and I use it for travelling within Oxford where I am a part-time consultant at The John Radcliffe Hospital.

What makes your practice different?

In addition to the latest dental techniques, we put our patients’ interests first. This involves taking time to find out what our patients want, to explain all of their options and to deliver care in the most considerate way.

Why are some people scared of going to the dentist?

Despite the innovations in dentistry, people are still having bad experiences.

This can be traced back to treatment they received as children but repeated bad experiences only negatively reinforce these fears. We want to try to end this cycle with gentle care.

Do you just offer dentistry at the practice?

An exciting development is that we’re now offering Facial Aesthetic treatments with our Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner.

This fits well with some of the other treatments that we provide.

What might we be surprised to find out about you?

I have always had a sweet tooth and, as a result, was scared of going to the dentist as a child. It was far from ideal at the time but now helps me empathise with my patients.

What excites you most about your job?

I have recently partnered up with an amazing charity, ‘Teeth Team’, to help reduce the number of children requiring hospital admissions for teeth extractions. I look forward to working in conjunction with some of Bath’s junior schools to ensure that those most in need receive assistance from an early age.

George Mexias

What do you enjoy most about your job?

One of the things I enjoy most in dentistry is how it is always evolving and how traditional technique merges with new modern developments. I always want to stay up to date, and advance my skills in new techniques mainly related with implantology.

What are you like as a patient?

Terrible, but luckily I have several close colleagues who I can call on should I need treatment; I know I must be the worst patient of their day!

Describe your ideal day?

A mix of surgery, consultation and final treatment appointments. About 90% of my work is dental implants, and I enjoy this surgery. It’s also rewarding that my patients are always surprised at how straightforward the process is.

Did your mum ever have to tell you to brush your teeth?

She still does when I visit her.

What might we be surprised to learn about you?

I recently acquired my private pilot’s license and I love to spend my spare time in various small airports around the UK. Next year I hope to be able to fly myself to Greece.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 93

GIVE US A CALL ON 01225 447600 www.bathsmile.co.uk

WHY CHOOSE CIRCUS HOUSE DENTAL & IMPLANT CENTRE FOR YOUR DENTAL IMPLANT TREATMENT? ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Free implant consultation Discount for multiple implants Treatment by George Mexias from start to finish Clear and complete options explained including non implant options Our practice is dedicated to implant dentistry Only use Straumann® and Nobel Biocare® dental implants Evening and weekend appointments available Inhouse 3D imaging CT scanner Same day teeth – All-on-4® treatment available from £9000 per arch

Single Tooth Dental Implants fro m £1500

CALL TODAY FOR THE MOST COMPETITIVE PRICES IN THE AREA

Circus House | Bennett Street | Bath | BA1 2EX Email: info@circusdental.co.uk

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

GETTING BATH SMILING BATH DENTAL CLINIC is Bath's newest specialist-only dental practice

L

ed by Consultant in Restorative Dentistry, Paul HR Wilson FDS (RestDent), we offer bespoke and gentle specialist dental care in a relaxed clinical environment. Treatments include specialist dentistry, dental implants, root canal treatment, cosmetic dentistry, dentures, crowns, bridges, oro-facial pain, TMD, occlusal problems, and we are happy to offer second opinions. You can rest assured that we offer the highest level of care. Our lead consultant, Paul HR Wilson, is listed on the Restorative Dentistry, Endodontics & Prosthodontics specialist lists of the General Dental Council. Patients can be referred by their own dentist or self-refer for care.

Bath Dental Clinic, Catharine Cottage, 21 Catharine Place, Bath BA1 2PS Tel: 01225 333848; bathdentalclinic.co.uk

Would you like to work in Media Sales?

We are always looking to hear from talented individuals who would like to work for MediaClash, presenting advertising opportunities and marketing solutions across our portfolio of fantastic local titles. We are a growing business and anticipate there being various opportunities over the next few months.

If you would like to join our continuing success story please email your CV to steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk or give us a call anytime on 01225 475800 for a chat about the company, our magazines and available positions.

www.mediaclash.co.uk

OUT OF TOWN

Magnificent Corsham Court, a focal point of the town, dates back to 1582

CAPTIVATING CORSHAM An easy jaunt from Bath, the town of Corsham resonates with history while enjoying a present that’s rich in culture, buzzing with quirky shops and innovative eateries You’ll find rather exotic residents roaming the streets

By J E N N Y OL DA K E R Photo g raphy by DE R RY N V R A NC H The variety of small businesses in Corsham adds to the area’s vibrancy

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

P

icturesque Corsham is a quintessentially English idyll in many ways, yet it is also home to some striking residents that lend the destination a decidedly exotic appeal: there are few other neighbourhoods in the UK where you can wander the streets alongside freely roaming peacocks. These electric blue beauties are a regular sight around the town – evidently having decided that their original base at Corsham Court doesn’t offer sufficient space in which to strut their stuff.

These feathered citizens aren’t the only thing that gives this fascinating town its charm. Blessed with a multitude of independent shops, a thriving cultural scene, innovative eateries and fabulous architecture – not to mention picture-perfect surrounding countryside – there is plenty to enjoy here for visitors and residents alike.

OUT OF TOWN

Laura Larkin, the managing director at HF Lettings says independent businesses are the lifeblood of the town

Chelsie Ball, owner of Amelie says she’s privileged to have such beauty on her doorstep

ARTS AND CRAFTS

From the 14th-century, Corsham represented an important hub for the wool industry as Flemish weavers settled here (there’s a row of 17th-century houses on the high street that are still known as the ‘Flemish Cottages’).

That ‘makers’ tradition is still having an influence on the town today; take All The Pretty Things, for example, which owner Helen Way says has been described by customers as ‘an Aladdin’s cave for crafters’.

“We have a wide selection of yarn for knitting and crochet, craft books and craft kits from various designers including our own local artist from Box, Emma Leith,” says Helen. “We run parties, workshops and courses for children and grownups in our dedicated workroom and we have the most gorgeous tearoom upstairs, The Peacock Tearoom, selling fine teas and homemade cakes.”

The ‘arty’ feel of Corsham is something that many of the business people we spoke to in the area allude to. Nicola White, the owner of Previous Homewares, for instance, adores the atmosphere of the town and says it complements her varied creative interests.

Nicola, who has a background as a senior lecturer in cultural studies at University of the Arts London and is a published author, opened her business in 2015 where she sources unusual antiques.

“Currently, we have a 19th-century desk from Eton College, complete with graffiti, the Eton Crest and an antiquated fire drill notice, which suggests that boys crawl on all fours with a hanky stuffed in their mouth,” she says. “We also always have a collection of mid-century original oil paintings as well as a range of design-led new items – from nightwear, scarves and leather bags to ceramics, candles and jewellery.”

EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

This pretty town punches well above its weight in terms of creative activity, with a vibrant cultural scene. This is in no small degree thanks to The Pound arts centre, an active hub for all forms of creative arts including theatre, comedy, music, talks, visual arts, family performances, workshops, annual festivals and an education and outreach programme.

“We were once a school house and we get visitors telling us they used to be students here,” says Sarah Callan, marketing officer at The Pound. “Some travel back from far off places to visit Corsham and their old haunts and pop in to see what’s happened to their old institution. They are always pleased to know that it is thriving as an arts centre for everyone locally to access.”

You’ll find an impressive smattering of festivals taking place throughout the year, a forthcoming highlight being the Blue Sky Festival which runs between 13-18 June.

“It’s a joyous, warm, quirky festival of the arts featuring theatre, comedy and music performances, exhibitions and workshops that are sure to leave you with that summer-time feeling,” says Sarah. “There are free activities too – look out for Wild Weekend in The Pound and on Corsham High Street – and a number of performances are suitable for all the family.”

Another event to scribble into your diary is the Magic and Mayhem Festival (9-12 November) as well as the town’s inaugural Taste of Corsham Food Festival on 17 June.

“We are certainly looking forward to Corsham’s food festival,” says proprietor of The Corsham Bookshop, Janet Brakspear. “We will be having two cookery events in the shop in the week preceding: Annie Grey will be talking about Queen Victoria’s eating habits from her new book The Greedy Queen, and we will be welcoming Charlotte Pike to talk about her book Smoked.

“I love living in Corsham,” adds Janet. “It is a friendly place with a quirky feel. Equally, we are not in an isolated ‘little England’ bubble, we have the military here as well as good, fast connections with London and Bristol, so we are not frozen in aspic.” w

IT’S THOUGHT THAT THE 10TH-

CENTURY RULER KING ETHELRED KEPT A HOUSE ON THE SITE OF CORSHAM COURT

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 97

OUT OF TOWN

Frances Tristram and her daughter, Anna Mestre, own Camomile Cafe where children can play and make as much noise as they want

FAMED SPOTS

Corsham is located just a few miles northeast of Bath, and although far smaller than the spa city, it lays claim to an impressively rich history. There has been a settlement here since AngloSaxon times and it’s thought that the 10th-century ruler King Ethelred kept a house on the site of what is now Corsham Court.

Magnificent Corsham Court, dating back to 1582, provides an iconic focal point for the town. This historic house also boasts spectacular Capability Brown-designed grounds – both house and garden are well worth a wander. This landmark is one of the many Corsham sights that you may recognise from the big (and small) screen, having featured in several period dramas including The Remains of the Day and the BBC’s Tess of the d’Urbervilles. The town is a firm favourite with location scouts too – most recently its streets have been reimagined as those of 18th-century Truro for BBC’s Poldark.

“Corsham Court was reputedly part of the inspiration for PG Wodehouse’s Blandings,” says The Corsham Bookshop’s Janet Brakspear. “And the Queen, before she was crowned, was said to have stayed at The Methuen Arms on High Street when she was visiting Prince Philip and he was stationed at Royal Arthur.”

Janet Brakspear, the proprietor of Corsham Bookshop which will be hosting some exciting events this month

independent florists, Bebeco for beautiful baby items and, our favourite business, V.L.P. – a family-run authentic Italian restaurant.”

Frances’s children’s activity cafe, which she runs with her daughter Anna Mestre is, she believes, unique in what it offers.

“It was born from a conversation about where to take small children where you could really relax and enjoy a meal or a hot drink and a cake while the children played, and not be judged should one of them make a little more noise than would be acceptable in ‘normal’ coffee shops,” she says. “From there, we developed our idea and we now provide a safe place with lots of fun toys placed around the cafe area for small people to discover and enjoy, including a ball pool and a baby corner.

“Upstairs we have a therapy room where our hypnobirthing, pregnancy relaxation, mum and baby massage, and yoga with baby and toddler sessions are held,” she adds. “And we have a chaos room where we hold regular sessions for messy play for small people.”

Favourite shops of Nicola White at Previous Homewares include Mother & Wild and The Deli At Corsham, while Chelsie Ball, the owner of Amelie, says that Naturally Nature is one of the best as far as she’s concerned.

“The owner of Naturally Nature, Jo, is a highly trained complementary therapist,” says Chelsie, whose own shop, Amelie, specialises in jewellery, handbags, accessories and clothing. “In her treatment room she offers aromatherapy, reflexology, Bach flower remedies and so much more. I also love The Corsham Bookshop, it’s such a fantastic asset to the town, as is All The Pretty Things.

“Having grown up in Corsham, it felt like the perfect place to start my business – which came about through a passion for style and fashion, and a love of beautiful things,” she adds. “I feel very privileged to have such beauty right on my doorstep.”

A short journey from Bath, Corsham is a captivating destination for anyone seeking an easy break from city life. Today its historic streets buzz with activity (not to mention the odd peacock) and exude a friendly but relaxed vibe, offering plenty to keep any visitor well occupied… and no doubt very keen to return. w

ITS STREETS HAVE BEEN

REIMAGINED AS THOSE OF 18TH-CENTURY

INDIE VIBES

TRURO FOR BBC’S POLDARK

Laura Larkin, the managing director at HF Lettings says one of her favourite aspects of Corsham is the variety of interesting businesses – from coffee shops such as Grounded, which is housed inside a converted chapel, to Theodora’s Flowers which has been trading in the town for 18 years. “It’s a very vibrant Wiltshire market town with many independent businesses, ancient buildings, excellent schools and peacocks all making a very unique town with something here to interest everyone,” says Laura who is currently celebrating 10 years in business at HF Lettings, which she explains is the only independent, stand-alone letting agent in Corsham.

Frances Tristram, co-owner of Camomile Cafe adds, “The majority of shops in Corsham are independent retailers with only the Co-Op, Boots and The Factory Shop owned by big companies, making this a great place to visit. Walk around the town and find little treasures like Green Ginger for your organic and freefrom products, Past Times who stock amazing gifts, two great 98 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Craft Emporium & Tea Room An Aladdin’s cave for crafters with the delightful addition of our in-house Peacock Tearoom. Come and browse, get inspired, be creative and enjoy a delicious barista coffee, some home baked goodies, a light lunch and some crafting.

We look forward to seeing you!

Yarn Felting Craft Kits

Haberdashery Ribbon Workshops Parties

51 -53 High Street, Corsham Wiltshire, SN13 OEZ Tele: 01247 712708

SH N O EW P C N O O F W FE O E PE N

Facebook.com/alltheprettythings.co.uk | Twitter: ATPTCorsham Instagram: ATPTCorsham | Email: sales@alltheprettythings.co.uk www.alltheprettythings.co.uk

SOFT FURNISHING SERVICE

WE PROVIDE • FREE Measuring Service

Including: Curtains, bespoke bedding, head boards, •WE Room Design with Mood Boards bespoke head boards, SERVICE PROVIDE SOFT FURNISHING •• CAD and Elevations commercial projects. We have our own local curtain SOFT FURNISHING SERVICE WEPlans PROVIDE FREE Measuring Service Including: Curtains, and bespoke bedding, headclients boards, making workrooms, facilities to provide with a full • Lighting, Lamps and Shades Including: Curtains, bespoke bedding, bespoke head • Room Design Mood • Room Design withwith Mood Boards bespoke head boards, design service.

• Bespoke Curtains and Blinds boards, Commercial own local curtain • CAD Boards Plans and Elevations commercial projects. Weprojects. have ourWe ownhave localour curtain Our suppliers are: Romo, Harlequin, William Yeoward, Fabrics Wallpapers makingworkrooms, workrooms, facilities to provide • CADand Plans making andand facilities to provide clientsclients with a with full a full•• Lighting, Lampsand andElevations Shades Sanderson, Casadeco, designservice. service.

• Lighting, andand Shades • Fitting ServiceLamps for Poles Tracks design • Bespoke Curtains and Blinds Wilman, Villa Nova, GP & J Baker, Marvic, Warwick, • Bespoke Blinds • Blinds - RollerCurtains - Verticleand - Skylight Oursuppliers suppliers are: Our Harlequin, suppliers William are: Romo, Harlequin, Our are: Romo, Yeoward, • Fabrics and Wallpapers Blendworth, Anna French, Thaibut, The Real Paintbox Co., • Fabrics Wallpapers andand Wood Flooring Sanderson,Casadeco, Casadeco, Wilman, Villa Nova, GP & J Baker, •• Carpets Sanderson, Fitting Service for Poles and Tracks Lewis & Wood, James Brindley.

• Fitting Service for Poles Marvic, Villa Warwick, Blendworth, French, Thaibut, • Upholstery Service Wilman, Nova, GP & J Baker, Anna Marvic, Warwick, • Blinds Roller Verticle - Skylight and Tracks The Real Paintbox Co., Lewis & Wood, James Brindley.

Blendworth, Anna French, Thaibut, The Real Paintbox Co., • Carpets Wood- Flooring • Blindsand - Roller Vertical Lewis & Wood, James Brindley.

SkylightService • Upholstery UPHOLSTERY SERVICE UPHOLSTERY SERVICE • Carpets and Wood Flooring If you have a favourite sofa or chair in need of refurbishment, If you a favourite sofa or chair in need of refurbishment, • Upholstery Service we canhave also provide an upholstering service.

UPHOLSTERY SERVICE we can also provide an upholstering service.

• FREE Measuring Service If you have a favourite sofa or chair in need of refurbishment, we can also provide an upholstering service.

T: 01249 716445 F: 01249 714833 E: perfectrooms@btconnect.com W: www.perfectrooms.co.uk

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM Leafield Stoneyard Corsham | Wiltshire | SN13 9RS Tel: 01225 816400

Rudloe-stone.com

Image of Hazelberry Manor Fireplace and Distressed White Limestone Flagstones

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

www.peartreewhitley.co.uk

OUT OF TOWN

DIRECTORY Our recommendation of businesses to visit in Corsham

SHOPS

All The Pretty Things 55D High Street, Corsham, SN13 0EZ 01249 712708 www.alltheprettythings.co.uk Bebeco 57 High Street, Corsham, SN13 0EZ 01249 714441 www.bebeco.co.uk Coppins of Corsham 1 Church Street, Corsham, SN13 0BY 01249 715404 www.coppinsofcorsham.co.uk The Corsham Bookshop 16 Martingate, High Street, Corsham SN13 0HL 01249 715988 The Deli at Corsham 18 High Street, Corsham, SN13 0ES 01249 716091 www.thedeliatcorsham.co.uk Perfect Rooms Silver Street, Gastard, SN13 9PY 01249 716445 www.perfectrooms.co.uk Previous Homewares 54 High Street, Corsham, SN13 0HF 01249 712367 www.previoushomewares.co.uk

Peacocks aren’t the only colourful characters in Corsham

The Hare and Hounds 48 Pickwick Road, Corsham, SN13 0HY 01249 701106 www.publeisure.co.uk/hare-hounds The Imperial Garden 23 High Street, Corsham, SN13 0ES 01249 701688

Whitehall Garden Centre Corsham Road, SN15 2LZ 01249 730204 www.whitehallgardencentre.co.uk

The Methuen Arms 2 High Street, Corsham, SN13 0HB 01249 717060 www.themethuenarms.com

RESTAURANTS

La Piccola Italia 21 Pickwick Road, Corsham, SN13 9BG www.la-piccolaitalia.co.uk

Cafe Grounded The Old Chapel, Pickwick Road, Corsham SN13 0HL; 01249 715555 www.cafegrounded.co.uk The Flemish Weaver 63 High Street, Corsham, SN13 0EZ 01249 701929 www.flemishweaver.co.uk The Greenhouse The Pavillion, Wadswick Green Corsham SN13 9RD; 01225 585880 www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk

The Pear Tree Top Lane, Whitley, SN12 8QX 01225 704966 www.peartreewhitley.co.uk

BUSINESSES AND SERVICES Corsham Court Church Street, Corsham, SN13 0BZ 01249 712214 www.corsham-court.co.uk

Corsham Tourist Information Centre Arnold House, 31 High Street, Corsham, SN13 0EZ; 01249 714660 www.corsham.gov.uk/visit/informationcentre. php Criterion Auctioneers Jaggards House, Jaggards Lane, Neston, Corsham, SN13 9SF; 01225 439830 www.criterionauctioneers.com Goughs Solicitors 23 Pickwick Road, Corsham, SN13 9BH 01249 712193; www.goughs.co.uk Little Willow Day Nursery Stokes Road, Corsham, SN13 9AA 01249 701444; www.daynurseryinbath.co.uk Pound Arts Centre 31 Pound Pill, Corsham, SN13 9HX 01249 701628; www.poundarts.org.uk Rudloe Stoneworks Leafield Stoneyard, Potley Lane, Corsham SN13 9RS 01225 816400 www.rudloe-stone.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 101

Are you looking for a lettings agency to care for your property?

Based on expertise and trust, we make letting your home a positive experience.

“We are experts in Bath, Corsham and South Cotswolds locations and are proud to work in such a wonderful part of the country” Laura Larkin Founder & MD

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What our customers say...

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54 High Street | Corsham | Wiltshire | SN13 0HF T: 01249 712367 www.previoushomewares.co.uk | nicola@previoushomewares.co.uk

BO VI OK SI YO TN U OW R

Little Willows Day Nursery invites you for a tour of their new day nursery

NOW OPEN for viewings and bookings for 2017/18 For more information please check our website

www.littlewillowsdaynursery.co.uk Little Willows Day Nursery Stokes Road, Corsham SN13 9AA T: 01249 701444 E: corsham@littlewillowsdaynursery.co.uk

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Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions

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

An artist’s depiction of what Bath Quays South will look like

ECONOMY

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

Bath Quays South, a site that has been derelict for almost half a century, will finally be developed as the council have gained planning consent to completely recreate the area Bath & North East Somerset Council are planning to create a huge innovation and digital campus to provide workspace for creative businesses in affordable short-let commercial units, a new Grade A office building and two other buildings for residential or specialist office use including a small area of retail space.

Work on the development will start this summer and it is hoped it will bring economic growth to the city. John Wilkinson, divisional director of Community Regeneration said, “At the heart of the new Bath Quays Central Business District, the development is linked to the council’s economic strategy which sets out plans to bring new jobs to the city by encouraging the growth of local companies and inspiring business chiefs to bring their businesses here.”

Ian Bell, executive director of Bath Chamber of Commerce and The Initiative in B&NES, supported the planning application for Bath Quays South. He said he is well aware of the pressing need for suitable office space in the city for growing local businesses and attracting new investors. He commented, “I am delighted to see this development taking an important step towards its fruition. We have waited far too long to see a successful

scheme on Bath Quays South.

There is widespread concern among the business community that a lack of modern office space in the city will damage the local economy. This development will not only do something to help with that, but it will underline the fact that the council is determined to address the issue in a positive way.”

Another exciting development for the city is the proposed Pioneer Building. The new Pioneer Building aims to support entrepreneurs who have grown out of the Bath University SETsquared Innovation Centre and The Guild Hub. As their businesses grow, they will be able to move into the flexible and adaptive accommodation that will be available. The facility will offer the perfect conditions for rapid growth, allowing businesses to move through the building as their team numbers increase.

Bath Quays South will also involve the completion of flood defense and river walls, new public spaces and landscaping. It is hoped the work will be completed by the end of 2018.

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk

“IT’S GREAT FOR PEOPLE WHO DON’T LIKE THE GYM” What’s the new fitness craze sweeping Bath?

Turn to page 111 to find out

£300,000 THE BIG NUMBER

The amount of government funding granted to an adoption charity in Bath See page 111 for more information

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

BUSINESS INSIDER

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

KAREN SANDFORD Partner of Synergy Construction and Property Consultants LLP talks careers and construction Tell us a bit about your background...

I originally come from Salisbury where I lived and went to school. I left after A-levels to go to Salford University to study Quantity Surveying. A brief period working in London followed, before I moved north again to work in Gateshead and then Leeds. Twenty years later, I’ve returned to the South West to live and work in Bath.

What did you want to be when you were little?

I loved anything to do with cars, so a racing driver or Top Gear presenter would have been my ideal career.

What was your first job?

I worked in a quantity surveying practice for the princely sum of £50 per week during the school holidays. I managed to negotiate that up from zero!

How did you progress into working with Synergy?

I spent nearly 20 years working for a construction consultancy practice in Leeds and having recently moved to the Bath area I was looking for a company who shared the same ethos as me in terms of exceptional client service. I knew when I met the partners at Synergy that the company was a good fit and what should have been a difficult decision became extremely easy.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your work?

In addition to delivering successful projects, I relish seeing the staff around me develop. Not just in terms of qualifications, but also personally. So much of business these days is about relationships, so personal development is crucial to success.

Who has inspired or influenced you throughout your career?

I was very fortunate to meet Julie Fawcett (currently Facilities Management Director at Travis Perkins plc) through the Women in Property mentoring scheme.

I will be eternally grateful to her for her support and advice over the last few years. One thing I have come to realise is that no matter what stage of your career you are at, having someone to talk to who is prepared to listen makes a huge difference to your confidence and decision-making.

What has been your proudest moment professionally?

Becoming a partner in a business. It’s what I always aimed for.

Any scary or testing moments?

Not really, I tend to take everything in my stride.

What makes your business stand out from all of your competitors?

Synergy has a reputation for going the extra mile, reflected in the high volume of repeat business they 108 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

receive. I feel their people-centered philosophy is particularly unique and focuses on the benefit of employee engagement and the positive effect it has not only on the staff, but on the business as well.

Karen is happy she has found a company who shares her ethos

How does Synergy intend to grow? What plans does it have?

We are looking to increase our offering in the South West. With my experience in a range of commercial projects, major regeneration schemes, retail and infrastructure, I’ve joined the Bath team to assist with their existing commercial work in the area as well as developing exciting new opportunities.

What construction are you most impressed by?

The Colosseum in Rome. How they managed to build such a structure so long ago is beyond me.

What building would you love to get the chance to see?

Not a building but a structure, the Millau Viaduct, it’s stunning and located in beautiful countryside.

Have you ever had a client ask the impossible?

Many times, but there is always a way to get there. You just need to think outside the box.

What is your favourite (lesser-known) building in Bath and why?

Not so much a building but the beautiful view as you look down Bath Street where our offices are. With the columns on both sides and the Cross Bath at the end, it is an impressive sight. Although just off the very busy Stall Street and opposite The Pump Room, it seems to be missed by many tourists.

Describe your ideal day...

With my friends, drinking champagne with the sun shining on us. I don’t mind where we are in the world.

Anything about you that might surprise us?

I love hitting a golf ball. Having not played for years, I recently picked up my clubs again. I need a bit of practice though before anyone challenges me!

For more: www.synergyllp.co.uk

I RELISH SEEING THE STAFF AROUND ME DEVELOP

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC

BATH RUGBY NEWS Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters

Above: partners of Epoch

FINANCIAL FINALISTS

Bath-based Epoch Wealth Management has been shortlisted to compete for the title of Adviser Firm of the Year at the Money Marketing Awards of 2017.

Shortlisted firms undergo intensive judging by industry experts on a range of measures including client service, turnover and profits, and technological innovation. www.epochwm.co.uk

PEDAL POWER

Paul Stuart, CEO of Send a Cow, cycled over 50 miles from Sidcot to Dursley, to help raise money for the British Cattle Veterinary Association.

Send a Cow works with farming families in some of the poorest parts of Africa to help them grow their own food and escape poverty for good. www.sendacow.org

ROPING THEM IN

Bathroom specialist Roper Rhodes won two top awards last month at the third annual Plumbing & Heating Group (PHG) Awards.

As well as scooping the coveted Overall Supplier of the Year Award, Bath-based Roper Rhodes also won the Innovation Award. www.roperrhodes.co.uk

June sees the start of the epic British and Irish Lions Tour to New Zealand, but you can get a taste of the famous rivalry here in Bath, at the pre-British and Irish Lions versus New Zealand test match quiz.

The much-anticipated event takes place on 15 June at Bath Racecourse and the aim is to raise money for the Bath Rugby Foundation, which helps underprivileged children to get quality education, access to fitness activities and personal development workshops.

Club President David Trick will be quizmaster for the evening, which will see several rounds including sport, general knowledge and pot luck. He said of the event, “The Lions tour is set to be the highlight of the summer, and we have a couple of famous ex Lions and ex All Blacks here in Bath so we thought what better way to

Bath Rugby Club president David Trick

warm up for the big event than by hosting a quiz?

We’ll have a team of ex Lions including Gareth Chilcott, and a team of Kiwis headed up by Tabai Matson. It will be a brilliant event with food, drinks and entertainment and all of the proceeds will go to the Bath Rugby Foundation.”

The evening will include a raffle and an auction with one-of-a-kind prizes up for grabs, including a British and Irish Lions shirt signed by three Bath Lions, Anthony Watson, Jonathan Joseph and Taulupe Faletau.

As part of the evening, guests will also enjoy a twocourse meal and the chance to hear the Lions’ and Kiwis’ thoughts on the impending test series.

For more: www.bathrugbyfoundation.com

BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY Xxxxx From city centre conferences to networking breakfasts, make a note of these dates and make them work for you 1 9 JU N E

27 J UNE

Simon Wear, founder and CEO of Shift Active Media, will be sharing his business expertise.

Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. £50.

12am – 2.30pm. www.bathlifebusinessclub.com

Business coach Peter Rolliston will be hosting an ActionCOACH business strategy workshop entitled Get your Business Working, to improve your marketing, sales promotion and profits. Abbey Hotel, North Parade. Free. 10am – 12pm.

2 0 JU N E

CIPD, who champion for better working lives, will hold their summer social with Professor Veronica Hope Hailey. University of Bath. Free for members or £25.

5.30pm. www.cipd.co.uk

5 J ULY

YENA – the network for young entrepreneurs and ambitious professionals – will be holding its next networking meetup at the

Bath Brew House. Entry is free so go along, socialise and be inspired by likeminded individuals. 7pm. www.yena.co.uk 6 AUG US T

Companies will compete in the Bath World Cup at Monkton Combe School Sports Ground.

Proceeds go to Creative Bath and the Bath Boules Trust. Team ticket is £250 plus VAT, 10.30am. www.creativebath.org

OFFICE SUPPLIES OFFICE FURNITURE OFFICE MACHINES

DELIVERIES TO YOUR DOOR...

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TEL: 01249 444777 EMAIL: SALES@WOODSOFFICE.CO.UK WWW.WOODSOFFICE.CO.UK

Woods the stationers

OUR SHOP HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED IN BATH FOR OVER 200 YEARS

Come in for all your day to day and gift stationery

12 Old Bond Street, Bath Tel: 01225 445 347

Air Conditioning

Refrigeration

Plumbing & Heating

Electrical

Renewables

w: www.ianhobbs.com t: 01225 444171 e: info@ianhobbs.com /ianhobbstech @ianhobbstech

BUSINESS INSIDER

BREAKING NEWS

FANTASTIC FOUR

Dedicated teachers at Bath Spa

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

VITAL FUNDING

The hardworking team at The Centre

A business adviser based in Bath has helped an adoption support charity get over £300,000 of government funding so it can extend its services of lifelong support for adopted families.

Richard Tidswell, of Business Doctors, used his experience in business development to help secure a grant for The Centre for Adoption Support and Education. He said,

“This is a charity close to my heart as I was adopted at birth. I’ve experienced the impact a loving family can make.”

The funding from the Department of Education will now enable The Centre, a sister charity of CCS Adoption, to increase access to therapeutic services. They offer workshops, courses, activities and social events to help promote attachment, long after the children have been placed.

Centre manager Emma Simpson said, “We will now be able to provide therapy more widely, which can help address issues such as abuse, neglect and trauma in early childhood. This then helps children to better form attachments with their family members and friends.”

two specially designed poles similar to cross country skiing.

Sarah Lillywhite will run the one hour classes in Bath on Mondays and Thursdays at 10am.

To commemorate their 70th year of training teachers all over the South West, Bath Spa University’s Institute for Education have released a book titled Back to School.

The book, which is exclusively available at Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath, is an inspiring journey through the history of teacher training at Bath Spa, featuring new interviews with teacher training alumni.

Professor Kate Reynolds, dean of Bath Spa University’s Institute for Education, said, “The book features an insightful look back at how education at Bath Spa became the Institute that it is today.

It celebrates those who have chosen to join that most wonderful profession being a teacher. The book tells the stories of ordinary student teachers who went on to make a difference to hundreds of children and young people. It is a book which shows how a small group of women and men, and one woman in particular Mary Dawson, established a teacher training college in Bath following the devastation of the Second World War.” The Institute for Education, based at the university’s Newton Park campus near Newton St Loe, is known for its long history of teacher training and excellent education research.

For more: www.bristolnordicwalking.co.uk

For more: www.bathspa.ac.uk

For more: www.adoptionsupportcentre.org

JUST KEEP WALKING An award-winning Nordic walking company has launched its fitness classes in Bath.

Bristol Nordic Walking, which recently won best health business in the Bristol Life Awards, has become so successful that founder Vicky Welsh decided to expand its reach. She said, “Royal Victoria Park offers the perfect venue for Nordic walking fitness. It’s great for people who don’t like the gym, or for those who worry that they aren’t fit enough to join the usual fitness classes.

In these new classes you’ll be able to start from almost any fitness level and improve slowly and steadily, at your own pace. That’s the ideal way to keep motivated and get fit.”

Nordic walking is one of the fastest growing fitness activities in the UK and uses

Ethiopian farmers processing taro

TEACHER TRAINING

What’s that coming over the hill?

ON THE MOOOVE Bath-based charity, Send a Cow, has received a prestigious award for innovation.

The charity, which works with smallholder farmers in some of Africa’s poorest regions, were joint winners of the award at a ceremony in London organised by BOND, the membership body for international development organisations working in the UK. Send a Cow was recognised for its Taro Project which focused on improving the shelf-life and usability of taro, a starchy root vegetable widely

eaten in the south of Ethiopia. Working hand-inhand with local farmers, Send a Cow staff trained them to process fresh taro into chips and flour.

Head of programmes, Gemma Porter said, “Our Ethiopian staff put a huge amount of work into this project and the results have been incredible. It’s amazing to think that because of their ingenuity, hundreds of farming families can now eat well and lift themselves out of poverty.

For more: www.sendacow.org

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

BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2017

EVENT WINNER Sponsored by

BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET Mick Heath, event manager for the Bath Christmas Market, tells us what goes into planning the much-loved Christmas event, how it stays ahead of the competition and what he loves to sample from the market every year…

So how did it feel to win a Bath Life Award? How did you celebrate and where is your award now?

As a team, we were absolutely thrilled and honoured to be part of the outstanding group of entrants. Winning our category was the icing on the cake! We may have had a few (too many) drinks in town and the award sits proudly in our office.

What do you think makes Bath Christmas Market stand out from other markets in the UK? Bath Christmas Market is the largest, most magical Christmas market in the South West. Visitors give us such complimentary feedback. They love the atmosphere and the buzz the event creates and also they love the quality, the range of stalls and the products made by our wonderful local artisans and craft makers. That’s why so many visitors return year after year and we know we are getting things right.

How did you get into this career?

I have worked in the events industry for a number of years and I was previously the site and production manager for Bath Christmas Market so I already know this event very well indeed.

Has it met or exceeded your initial plans and expectations? And if so how?

The event has a life of its own so it’s not until all the stallholders are ready and open and the public arrives that all the hard work and planning comes into effect properly. You can’t plan for people’s reactions; you can only hope that the buzz and atmosphere of the market exceeds everyone’s expectations. It does mine, every time.

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

Mick Heath, Vicky Bunt and Lynsay Redwood from Bath Christmas Market

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

Absolutely. Working with residents, community groups and stakeholders is an important part of what we do. This year, we are actively trying to engage more with the community by introducing more family focused activities and by encouraging visitors to explore more of what Bath has to offer by spreading footfall to other areas in the city. We hugely appreciate the support we receive in making this event the success that it is.

What do you love most about your job?

Two things: helping small independent local businesses – our short-term lets area is full of small artisans and craft makers that receive vital funds to launch and raise their businesses to the next platform. And... Christmas puddings!

How difficult has it been coordinating such a huge event? What changes have you seen since it first came about?

As a team we are very experienced at delivering large outdoor events. The Christmas of 2001 was the inaugural year for Bath Christmas Market and there were only a few chalets and the event operated for just four days. Now in its 17th year, Bath Christmas Market has grown into one of the most popular Christmas markets in the UK. Have there been any tricky times?

It’s a market leader in the execution of Christmas markets so it’s a challenge staying ahead of the competition as many towns and cities are seeing the benefits that the event can bring and are introducing their own Christmas markets. Adverse weather is our main enemy but thankfully we have only had to close early once in 16 years due to an almost tropical storm hitting the area.

What do you aim to achieve in the next couple of years on a personal level, and also for the market?

On a personal level I would like to spend more time on my creative interests and spend more time with family and friends. I would like to see Bath Christmas Market as part of a comprehensive ‘Bath at Christmas’ offering.

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

Be prepared to think festive everyday throughout the year and don’t take things to heart when things don’t always go to plan.

What has been your own personal favourite item bought from the Bath Christmas Market?

There is so much to choose from but I especially love buying a little festive tipple from the local gin producers who participate in the event.

What do you love most about Bath?

I love the architecture plus all the unique indie cafes and shops, and of course you will not find a better bun anywhere else in the whole country.

Who are your business heroes?

I think anyone who commits to running a business and puts their all into it is a hero.

It’s not all about the million-pound industries, at the heart of the UK are thousands of hard-working independent business owners who take a risk on something they believe passionately about.

Tell us something surprising...

I’m a qualified miller!

For more: www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH LIFE BUSINESS CLUB

Lord Ian Charter MacLaurin, Peter Gradwell and Sian Pirone

LORD MACLAURIN From management trainee to a seat in the House of Lords, Ian Charter MacLaurin has enjoyed a long and varied career, working at Tesco for 40 years (Chairman for 12) before joining Vodafone at the start of the telecom revolution in the 1990s. Speaking at the Bath Life Business Club, he had some sage advice to pass on to today’s generation of entrepreneurs and businesspeople

M

acLaurin already had a decent job when he first met Jack Cohen, the founder of high street grocers, Tesco. Having left the RAF, he was earning £900 a year – a considerable amount in 1959. But a chance encounter with the retailer, followed by the “amazing” offer of £1,000 a year and a company car, saw MacLaurin join Tesco as its first management trainee.

At the time, Tesco had 700 “really crappy” stores, he admits; small and decidedly downmarket. Starting in the warehouse, he worked

Lord Ian Charter MacLaurin

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

his way up, running increasingly larger stores as the business progressed.

Fast forward to 1977, MacLaurin highlights his decision to stop issuing Green Shield Stamps as the catalyst for a major change in Tesco. “That was my decision,” he says. “It was quite clear that the UK customers didn’t want stamps any more. We were spending £20 million a year on them.” With the help of a non-executive director, he defeated the board, six votes to five – upsetting Cohen who, as the company’s owner, had never lost a vote in his life.

I THINK EMAIL IS A DISASTER FOR BUSINESSES This key decision was the stimulus for other changes within Tesco’s stores. “Over the Queen’s jubilee weekend in 1977 we closed nearly 1,000 stores, explains MacLaurin. “We whitewashed all the windows on Saturday night and we made a promise, that come Wednesday you’re going to have a much better deal than you’ve ever had before. No stamps, no nothing… new Tesco. All the other retailers on the high street wanted to spike us, so they all came out on the Tuesday night with their adverts. Then we came out on Wednesday and said, sorry, it’s Thursday. So we then knew what everybody else was doing in retail – all the prices, everything else. We opened on the Thursday and we absolutely skinned them.”

MacLaurin – a refreshingly down-to-earth character – believes the company’s success during this period was due to two key factors, “The quality of the merchandise that we sold and what people wanted.” He goes on to explain how he instigated daily focus groups,

asking consumers what they wanted from their shopping experience. “They said we want flat, free car parking. We want loos. We want wines and spirits… We then had a list of 20 or 25 things that we had to incorporate into the designs of our new stores. And price, which is all over the place now, was never ever more than half-way up that list.”

He was also instrumental in shifting sweets away from the checkout – a move that initially cost the company £20 million, but garnered much praise and plenty of column inches in the daily newspapers.

Clearly a people person, MacLaurin advises the lunch guests to listen to their customers, listen to their suppliers and to know and understand their staff. And by the same token he also warns about the dangers of technology, “I am a great unbeliever in email,” he states emphatically. “I think email is a disaster for businesses. You can’t get personality from an email. If you’re going to run a team of people and you’re right at the top of it, don’t email. Ban the emails, talk to people, get the personalities of people, get a team of people all working together.”

For more: www.bathlifebusinessclub.com

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 19 June with Simon Wear and 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

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

REGENCY OFFICES After a decade of top service REGENCY OFFICES have established themselves as the best in the business

R

egency Offices has been offering fully serviced offices in central Bath for 10 years this month. Managing Director, Tony Williams, says, “Without any doubt the 10 years that I have been running Regency Offices have been the most enjoyable of my career, it is so exciting and rewarding to see businesses of all kinds flourish and to be able to give new and established businesses the chance to work in an office without committing to a long lease and with no unexpected bills.”

We are looking forward to continuing to serve the Bath business community with flexible, allinclusive office space from just £250 per month, inclusive of business rates, all utilities, cleaning,

waste collection, office furniture, all building maintenance tea and coffee. To find out more, visit www.regencyoffices.com and see all of the offices we currently have available in our 10 central Bath locations.

In the last 12 months we have invested in the business significantly and this investment has included installing super fast leased line internet services in all our buildings. Our tenants are delighted with the fantastic speeds we are now achieving, which of course is making them even more productive!

38 Degrees, who are in our new building at 5 Lower Borough Walls, are one of 20 businesses to join Regency in the last 6 months, and they have given us a big thumbs-up!

Regency Offices is delighted to invite all current and previous tenants to its 10th Anniversary Garden Party at 23 Gay St on Wednesday 21st June 5.30–8pm for Champagne & Canapes!

If you would like to attend the event please RSVP by emailing: info@regencyoffices.com

Tony Williams, Colino Violante, and George Driver outside new premises in Lower Borough Walls

“We rang Colino at Regency Offices on Wednesday 17th of May and by Monday morning all 12 of us were sat at our desks in our delightful new offices. Our main base is London, however we are working on a short term project in Bath. What a fantastic service, we cannot praise the Regency staff highly enough!” said Lia Loewenthal of 38 Degrees.

Tony Williams; 01225 326400 3 Princes St, Bath BA1 1HL info@regencyoffices.com www.regencyoffices.com

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

THE MILL HOUSE

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

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

This 167-year-old former mill house, owned by a rather successful Bath business woman, has had an extreme makeover to bring it into the present day while still retaining its best bits

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

I

f you’ve so much as window-shopped at The Salcombe Trading Company on Broad Street, Bath, you’ll know that it offers a distinctive and eclectic mix of furniture and accessories for the home and garden, with a focus on timeless, Scandinavian design. So it won’t come as a surprise that Michelle Sames, one half of the team behind the concept, has a beautiful home herself, and it’s just gone on the market.

The Mill House – which is actually a former mill house that dates back to 1850 – has undergone an extensive highquality renovation (as featured in Country Homes magazine) to sympathetically restore it to its former glory while adding modern flourishes throughout. No expense has been spared to incorporate state-of-the-art technology whilst retaining the home’s traditional features, such as working fireplaces, beams, deep oak sills and window seats. The effect provides flexible family accommodation for modern country living.

Coming straight into the split-level entrance hall and boot room, there are Welsh slate cobbles and Italian limestone flooring throughout, an open fire with the original lintel, a bespoke oak staircase and French doors onto the garden, as well as underfloor heating. Entering the drawing room – which was originally the miller’s cottage – you’ll be greeted with a formal but very comfortable double aspect space with a woodburning stove set in a Bath stone surround, a floor-to-ceiling bespoke library wall, a Crucial Trading British wool carpet and French doors leading out to the pond and the meadow beyond.

This, according to Michelle, is the best place to sit and watch the sunset.

Enter then into a spectacular open-plan beamed kitchen/ dining room, a fabulous entertaining space featuring bespoke cabinetry (hand-built by Fired Earth, a neighbouring shop of The Salcombe Trading Company on Broad Street), a granitetopped island with an inset sink and boiling tap, a whisper-quiet dishwasher and a drinks fridge. There are also double dressers as well as a five-oven electric Aga. The kitchen leads through to a coordinating pantry with integrated Liebherr bio refrigeration units, full-height pull-out larders and a second butler sink.

A stable door to the outside takes you out to the al fresco 120 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise, from top left: This property was once used as a mill house; the living room’s countryside views; charming bedrooms; the traditional but modern kitchen

HOUSE NUMBERS

3,458

square foot of space

5

bedrooms

£1.85M price

3

bath/shower rooms

5

acres of outdoor space

1

double garage

dining area, greenhouse and herb garden. There is also a gated entrance here linking the garden to the lane, handy for unloading the shopping into the pantry or putting the refuse out. Opposite the pantry there is a second boot room, also accessible from the garden via a handmade oak door.

A couple of solid oak steps lead down into the family room – a bright and airy contemporary addition to the old mill, offering feature windows with bespoke shutters, and French doors opening on to the front garden. A separate area is designated as a study or drinks-serving area as required.

On the first floor, the master bedroom wing is a lovely private space with stunning views across the countryside. There is a separate dressing room and Fired Earth wet room with twin basins, handmade shutters, heated towel rail, a feature beam and under floor heating, too. And bedroom number two is a very a charming double-aspect guest room, with feature beams and additional dressing area.

Luxury abounds in the family bathroom and wet room where there is a feature roll-top nickel bath with standpipes, a walk-in monsoon shower, a stone basin on a hand-painted washstand, marble tiles, bespoke shutters and separate WC. The second floor has three further bedrooms, perfect for a large family, plus another expertly styled bathroom with an oversized bath, granite surrounds and a double basin.

Step outside and let the five acres of exceptionally peaceful and tranquil woodlands and gardens enchant you. The front garden features a pond with fountain, bordered by mature trees and attractive cottage garden plants, and the rear features formal box hedging with climbing roses, espaliered fruit trees and a bespoke greenhouse, workshop and log store.

With all of that, plus the fact that the location – on the outskirts of the popular and charming village of Norton St Philip – is rather convenient (with the village amenities just a short walk away and with Bath a mere seven miles away) this threestorey property is a unique find which is sure to be snapped up soon.

Savills Bath, Edgar House, 17 George Street, Bath, BA1 2EN; 01225 474550; www.savills.co.uk

Exceptional apartment in Lansdown A modern, stylish and beautifully presented ground floor apartment, offering stunning views and wonderful outdoor space in this much sort after area.

Equus House

offers in excess of £700,000

A beautiful two bedroom apartment, occupying one of Lansdown’s premium positions on Bath’s popular Northern slopes. This stunning contemporary accommodation has been finished to the highest standards and boasts a large open plan living area which offers an immediate feeling of space and airiness. Large French doors lead onto a slate covered patio area and large garden with stunning uninterrupted views stretching to the Solsbury hills. With two good sized double bedrooms, one with large en-suite, contemporary kitchen, family bathroom and benefitting from private secure parking, this accommodation must be viewed to be fully appreciated. Viewing is highly recommended.

Bespoke architectural design · Contemporary finish · Stunning uninterrupted views · Two double bedrooms · Secure gated driveway · Private parking · 1367 Sq ft · EPC Rating: B

SALES

01225 471 14 4

LETTINGS

01225 303 870

sales@theapartmentcompany.co.uk

A stylish recently refurbished apartment in the heart of the city A modern, immaculately presented three bedroom apartment. Centrally located just a short walk to local shops, restaurants and local amenities.

Milsom Apartment

per calendar month £1,700

This fabulous apartment located in the trendy Milsom Place development is the perfect property to enjoy all of the city’s facilities. Sharing an entrance with just two other apartments this first floor property boasts a spacious open plan kitchen/ sitting room with oak floors and a bespoke kitchen. The master bedroom benefits from a well-appointed en-suite shower room, there are two further bedrooms and a master bathroom. Having recently undergone a superb refurbishment this property would make an ideal home viewings are highly recommended.

Three Bedrooms · First Floor · Beautifully refurbished · Bespoke kitchen · Central Location · Furnished · Tenant fees apply

www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk

Vernon Terrace, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath Prices from £195,000 Ideal for FTB or investors 4 new built apartments by prestigious local developers Crossman Homes in this popular location within a miles' level walk of the city centre Two ground floor garden apartments (a one bedroom (£195,000) and a two bedroom unit (£255,000) plus a further two 1st and 2nd floor two bedroom maisonettes (£269,000 and £285,000).

Build completion scheduled for Summer 2017.

T: 01225 471116 crossmanhomes.co.uk

T: 01225 325857

timbennettandassociates.co.uk

a d vertising feat u re p r o p e r t y

External image is a CGI. Interior images are indicative only

CROWNING GLORY

Royal View crowns launch with flurry of sales, says crest nicholson

A

stunning edition to Bath’s skyline has captured the imagination of house hunters looking for a new property close to the city centre.

Including a unique collection of luxurious apartments, Royal View is the exciting new phase at Crest Nicholson’s Bath Riverside.

Launched in early spring, the sales team have already released additional properties to cope with the high levels of interest from those keen to get the pick of the plots, with one of the exclusive penthouses already sold.

Located next to the historic Victoria Bridge, Royal View comprises 45 apartments including eight one-bedroom, 34 twobedroom and three stunning penthouses.

Built predominantly from Bath Stone, thoughtfully considered features capture the distinctive character of the city’s Georgian

“Providing spectacular views out across the city, residents will be able to take in and enjoy renowned settings”

past, safeguarding its place within Bath’s historic landscape.

Incorporating a series of soft curves, the eight-storey building has been designed to blend effortlessly with its landscape and waterside setting.

Providing spectacular views out across the city, residents will be able to take in and enjoy renowned settings such as the Royal Crescent and Royal Victoria Park.

Those wanting to know what life could be like at Bath Riverside, can also take a look around a new show apartment that has just opened its doors.

Including new style designs, on-trend colours and the most up-to-date textures, it provides house hunters with a superb idea of the lifestyle so many people are already enjoying in the heart of the world heritage city – and what they can expect should they buy one of the new properties currently for sale.

Christine Hamilton, sales advisor at the development said, “There was a lot of interest when we released Royal View and that has remained ever since.The curved nature of the design has been a real talking point and is unlike anything that has ever been seen in the Bath skyline before.

“To help house hunters visualise what to expect the show apartment provides a really fantastic idea of what the interiors will be like.”

See Bath From A New Perspective Those wanting to be part of this unique and iconic new building are now being advised to contact the sales team to book an appointment, where the team will take potential buyers to the top of the building so they can see for themselves the views from what has already become a major talking point with the city’s house hunters.

Christine added, “Royal View is a superb addition to both Bath Riverside and the city of Bath. With the building work progressing well we are hoping to start moving people into their new apartments this Autumn.”

To register interest for Royal View please contact the sales and marketing team on 01225 463517 or visit www.crestnicholson.com/bathriverside The marketing suite on Victoria Bridge Road is open daily from 10 am to 5pm.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 125

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

THE POWER OF PR

M

THE APARTMENT COMPANY advises how Public Relations has helped them reach national exposure

ost independent estate agents in our area rely on local and online advertising only to promote their homes for sale. Yes, these are essential elements of the marketing mix, but buyers come from afar, not just locally, so properties need to be marketed nationally too, to ensure they are seen by as many people as possible.

In today’s market, Public Relations (PR) plays a vital role in helping us to achieve national exposure, yet it's often left on the wayside by small estate agents. Understanding its value, we maximise every opportunity we can to secure multiple viewings and the best price for our sellers with our unique PR service, so that we can target the national press and their individual websites. Often mentioned in property articles within the likes of the Daily Telegraph, Evening Standard, Country Life and The Times, this widespread exposure ensures we are not just marketing homes on a local level, but targeting the lucrative London and International markets on

a national level too.

Articles could be about the Bath property market, listed homes or an individual apartment steeped in history. Our PR consultant, who has worked for some of the world’s best property companies, chats with us regularly to find the good PR hooks of our apartments and our area.

She also talks to key property journalists daily to find out what they are writing about as well as suggest ideas on behalf of The Apartment Company.

The results have been phenomenal. One of our homes on Walcot Parade for example has already been in The Guardian and the Daily Telegraph. In addition, a recent mention in The Times for a home on Henrietta Street led to several enquiries from London and overseas buyers. We then sold the apartment well in excess of the guide.

PR is such a powerful marketing tool, promoting apartments in a much more subtle way than advertising does. Unlike advertising it’s free, and it’s far more valuable to prospective

buyers who value reading something which has been written by a journalist over a property advertisement composed by an estate agent.

As an independent estate agent, this additional service is very unique for our area and further enhances our marketing offering for our clients.

For more information about how we can help promote your apartment to the widest possible audience via PR, please do get in touch.

For more advice visit our blog at www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk/newssearch.aspx Sales: 01225 471144 Lettings: 01225 303870 www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk

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

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

Over

20 years'

in experience ty er p ro p the sector

Professional property finders ...with a personal touch

Are you fed up with those long drives every weekend to view properties – only to find they are not what you expected... or maybe you just don't have time to look?

We can help!

bath &country property finders

• Takes the stress out of house-hunting • Saves you time, effort and money • Provides an independent and unbiased service • Doesn't charge a registration fee We act exclusively for you in the search and acquisition of property.

Call us for an informal chat on 01225 571620 www.bathandcountry.co.uk

THE LACOCK PLANTER FINE CARPENTRY & STYLISH DESIGN www.thelacockplanter.co.uk T 01249 652139 M 07984 167 360

SERVICES GUIDE

ALLERGY TESTING

ALLERGY TESTING

GUIDE to SERVICES in the CITY

Feeling unwell? May I help you?

ARE YOU FIT INSIDE AND OUT?

uk co. st. yte erg all w. ww

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL THE BATH LIFE TEAM ON 01225 475800 STONE SPECIALISTS

Headaches & migraine, tiredness & fatigue, weight problems, eczema or other skin problems, asthma, catarrh & sinus congestion, IBS & digestive disorders, anxiety & depression.

If you suffer with any of the above complaints, an hour’s test could change your life!

For your nearest tester please contact Cindy on 07747 800097 or 01934 824056, or email allergytesting@churchviews.co.uk

Now testing at Lansdown Clinic, Bath BA1 5EE www.allergytest.co.uk

STONE SPECIALISTS

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

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

www.bathstonemasons.co.uk

JEWELLERY

Nigel Dando DAVIS MASONRY & CONSTRUCTION Natural stone specialist Bath stone restoration Walling Re-pointing

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

Nigel Dando

t: 07910 621 316 e: jack_fb_123@hotmail.co.uk

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B AT H L I V E S

Q&A

L

ocal tour guide Mike, who lives in Keynsham, has just published his first book, The Little Book of Bath – a compendium of fascinating, frivolous and bizarre historical facts about the city. Here he tells us the most unusual titbits of information he discovered when doing his indepth research…

I was inspired to write The Little Book of Bath as I work as a professional tour guide in the city and in the West Country….

Although I had never before written anything for publication, when The History Press approached Parade Guides to enquire whether anyone might be prepared to write a book about the city, I decided to have a go.

I spent all of 18 months researching Bath’s incredible history…

I used books and archive material and also picked the brains of many of my knowledgeable guiding colleagues.

Some of the most impressive, unusual and shocking facts about Bath include…

The first and only therapeutic salt cave in Britain was created in a house in the city in 2007, but was unsuccessful and lasted for only a year; the murderer John Straffen, who became the longest-serving prisoner in British legal history, abducted his first child victim from a house in Bath; and, although most people know that Bath is the only location in the UK that has hot springs, it is less known that none of the other springs in Britain qualify as ‘hot’ because the temperature of the water is below blood heat.

While writing this book, the thing that surprised me most was…

The realisation that we can’t be absolutely sure where Beau Nash is buried (even though his memorial is in Bath Abbey), since only his funeral was paid for, and not his burial.

Some fun facts about Bath include...

The city has its own local currency, known as the Bath Oliver; there are 14 places in the USA named after Bath; Plasticine was invented in Bath by an art teacher named William Harbutt; Sir John Harington invented the first example of a flushing toilet (hence the term ‘John’) which he installed in his manor at Kelston, near Bath.

MIKE DEAN The author and West Country tour guide talks Bath’s own currency, famous historic visitors to the city – including Lord Nelson and Charles Dickens – and some of the most surprising facts about Bath Famous historic visitors include...

Lord Nelson, who is said to have stayed at the building which is now The Crystal Palace on Abbey Green; and Charles Dickens, who stopped at an inn at what is now the Saracens Head on Broad Street.

It’s fantastic being a tour guide because…

I’ve always had a passion for discovering new things. As well as working independently (as all Blue Badge guides do) I am a member of Bath Parade Guides, a long-established co-operative of Blue Badge guides in the city. We specialise in coach and walking tours anywhere in the West Country. I wasn’t always a guide though, I’m a retired primary school teacher.

Bath is a beautiful city with a long and fascinating history…

My favourite shop for browsing is Rossiters of Bath; The Raven is an excellent pub; and Hand’s Georgian Tearoom and The Bath Bun are really good for traditional home-cooked food.

My favourite overall spot is Beechen Cliff, overlooking the city…

Rome is built on seven hills, and Bath is surrounded by seven hills – Beechen Cliff is one of those. It was immortalised by Jane Austen in

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

Northanger Abbey as the place where Catherine Morland takes her walk with Tilneys.

My most treasured possessions are…

My father’s World War II medals.

My hidden talent is…

I make a really mean bread pudding!

My biggest achievements professionally is…

Getting The Little Book of Bath published.

A memory that will stick with me forever is…

Looking down into the Grand Canyon early on the morning of my 70th birthday.

My perfect weekend in Bath would include…

An overnight stay at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, spending some time in the Thermae Bath Spa, and walking to Bathampton for lunch at the George Inn.

The Little Book of Bath was published in the spring and is available to buy now; www.thehistorypress.co.uk