Dining/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 342 / 23 JUNE – 7 JULY 2017 / £3
BOU H T
ES
CTU
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IN
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CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY
BA
@BathLifeMag
ISSUE 342 / 23 JUNE – 7 JULY 2017 / SUN TRAPS
CARNIVAL COLOUR/ FRESH INTERIORS/ INDIE SHOPPING/ SUMMER BEAUTY
EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 342 / 23 JUNE – 7 JULY 2017
82 OUT ’N’ ABOUT
The best views, menus and atmospheres of the city’s al fresco dining spots
So that we can make the most of the glorious weather we’ve been having, we’ve dedicated much of this issue to getting outside in Bath and beyond. As such, we’ve been exploring a medley of our favourite open-air eateries – think rustic retreats, sun-trap courtyards and people-watching hotspots. The city’s best-known bread-maker, Richard Bertinet, is responsible for our freshly baked front cover, and on page 82 he talks about the joys of al fresco dining in the city. July also marks the beginning of Independent Retailer Month, which is as good an excuse as any to champion a snapshot of our brilliant indies, such a vibrant and important part of the fabric of our city, in a bid to encourage you to shop local. Turn to page 40 to discover more than 50 of the very best small businesses – from a lingerie boutique to a specialist magazine shop – which inject colour and personality into Bath. As I write this, I’m blissfully reminiscing about the Bath Boules – the one weekend of the year that everyone can let their hair down, indulge in a tipple or two and get seriously competitive, all for a great charitable cause. In this issue, there are six pages of photos from the event for you to flip through and relive the merriment, starting on page 16. See you in two weeks when we’ll share all the snaps from our annual Bath Life Summer Party! Lisa Evans, Editor Follow us on Twitter: @BathLifeMag Follow us on Instagram:@bathlifemag
FEATURES / ISSUE 342 / 23 JUNE – 7 JULY 2017
We love to shop at local businesses such as Rossiters of Bath
40
INDIE LOVE
We showcase 53 of Bath’s best independent shops, in light of the upcoming Independent Retailer Month
146 Bath Lives
We speak to co-founder of Forest of Imagination Andrew Grant
REGULARS / ISSUE 342 / 23 JUNE – 7 JULY 2017
THE ARTS 61 Arts intro The big Bath Carnival comes back to the city in July
62 What’s on A look at Bath’s best shows, gigs, art 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 Safia Yallaoui, David Flatman, Angela Mount, Steve Jarratt, Nic Bottomley and Elie Gould 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
73 Bookshelf Indie shop-keeping is the subject of our book selection
FOOD 74 Restaurant
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 tried the new Royal Crescent anniversary dinner at The Dower House
82 Al fresco We scour the city for the best outdoor dining spots
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
93 Wine Pretty in pink, we’ve got the perfect wine for sunny days
Bath Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash
99 Food & drink news An American burger place arrives and Apex Hotel expands their new team
© All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.
SHOPPING 102 Editor’s choice Inspired by Bath Carnival, we search for colourful additions to your home and wardrobe
105 Try 5
124 Financial
We ask local salons for their best beauty tips for summer
We speak to six of the leading financial figures in Bath for insight, advice and tips
BUSINESS
PROPERT Y
113 Business insider
136 Showcase
News, advice and opinions from the region’s professionals
A Georgian townhouse becomes a trendy home
DEPARTMENTS 9 16 35 37
Spotlight Society A man’s world Girl about town
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 Richard Bertinet freshly baked these tasty words at his kitchen on St Andrew’s Terrace, Bath. Photo by Beata Cosgrove
BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES
FASHION
DRESS OF THE YEAR
The feminine but edgy look caught the eye of British Vogue
The Fashion Museum have announced the Dress of the Year 2016, chosen especially by Kate Phelan of British Vogue. The selection that won the coveted title comprises two ensembles from Autumn/Winter 2016 by internationally renowned designer Jonathan Anderson. One of them is a womenswear ensemble for the Spanish luxury fashion house Loewe, where Anderson holds the position of creative director; the other is a menswear ensemble from the designer’s eponymous label, JW Anderson. Kate Phelan, senior contributing editor at British Vogue and global creative director of Topshop, said, “It has been an honour to be asked by the Fashion Museum Bath to select the Dress of the Year 2016. I chose a look from Loewe womenswear and a complementary look from JW Anderson menswear, both under the creative direction of Jonathan Anderson, because his collections are intelligent and represent a new world of fashion and style, reflecting the future ahead in our ever changing world.” The womenswear look is a cream mohair tweed asymmetric fringed dress, worn with a gold leaf Napa leather bustier/corset. The ensemble is accessorised with coiled wire and coin bracelets and a tan leather bag. The menswear look is a cream, chunky, oversized cardigan, worn with ribbed knit trousers, a white shirt with metallic button detail, bright red Velcro-tabbed, boxingstyle trainer boots and a Perspex choker. The selection by Kate Phelan marks the 100th anniversary of British Vogue, which first appeared in Britain in 1916. For more: www.fashionmuseum.co.uk
SPOTLIGHT
King George V’s visit to soldiers in 1917
Love 2 Cycle Sportif took place alongside the competitive Tour Series in Bath on its last day
SPORT
HISTORY
REMEMBERING THE FALLEN A community project to mark the First World War centenary has been awarded vital funding from The Heritage Lottery Fund. Bath & North East Somerset Council have been given £7,100 to put towards the project, called A Century’s Memories, which is part of the council’s commemoration of the iconic centenary. The centenary runs until 2018 and involves small groups of people generously
sharing family memories and stories of the First World War passed down through the generations. Conservative Councillor Patrick Anketell-Jones, cabinet member for Economic Development, says, “Personal stories, photos and keepsakes are a powerful way of understanding what life was like in 1914-18. Older people will have memories of their parents and grandparents talking to them about service
in combat or on the home front. It is very important that we share and treasure these unique stories, the last connections to a world of 100 years ago.” The project will also involve young people and volunteers, who will learn how to research local history and record interviews with the participants. The stories will be gathered into an illustrated book in 2018. For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk/ ww1centenary | www.hlf.org.uk
IT’S A CYCLE OF LOVE The first ever Love 2 Cycle Sportif in Bath and North East Somerset took place last month, with thousands of spectators flooding to the city. Cyclists of all abilities were encouraged to take part in the noncompetitive organised bike ride which took riders along a 33-mile or 71-mile route, depending on which they entered. Known to many people as the hashtag #love2cyclesportive, the ride started at Royal Avenue in Bath and went through the Somer and Chew Valleys, towns and villages including Keynsham, Midsomer Norton, Radstock, and many more. Although it was a non-competitive race, it was organised as part of the Tour Series which included a women’s and a men’s race. Bath was the last stop on the Tour Series, which made the event even more special. Olympic gold medalist Dani King was appointed ambassador. For more: www.tourseries.co.uk
BONITI NATURAL STONE FLOORING | EVERHOT RANGE COOKERS TIMBER FLOORING | GARDEN FURNITURE
WWW.BONITI.COM | 01225 892 200 | SHOWROOM@BONITI.COM
Adventures in party-going
scene Acros s B AT H , o n e s h i n d i g at a t i m e
LET THE BOULES BEGIN The much-loved Bath Boules came back to the city for three days in June – this time bigger and better than ever before – bringing its welcoming French vibe and lots of fun. More than 250 Bath companies contributed and 192 went head-to-head in the Boules tournament while raising bucket loads of money for local charities in the process. Thousands of people flocked to Queen Square over the long weekend to root for their team mates, devour delicious street food, and enjoy live entertainment and activities for all the family. Even before the games kicked off, everyone had that Friday (or Thursday, rather) feeling when the excitement started early with the Creative Bath shindig: the Awards plus Summer Party. Actually, it all began on the Wednesday, with a 15th birthday party for Lovehoney. We take our berets off to all those who came, saw and sponsored, including headline sponsor Royds Withy King. Merci, mes amis, for making this mini French festival in the heart of Bath yet another one to remember. The organisers are hoping to beat last year’s record of over £41K raised for local charities, as part of a new four-year target to hit £250K in all.
Photo by Chris Daw
Photos by Chris Daw, Derryn Vranch, Rich Howman, Rich Morris, Tim Woolf and Becky Rogers www.chrisdawphotography.com; www.derrynvranch.com; www.richhowman.com; www.richmorrisphotography.com; www.woolfandrogersphotography.com
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B AT H B O U L E S 2017
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Ph o t o s b y C H R I S DAW Bath Holiday Rentals: Robert Kelly, Alexa Boisey, Marcus Pope, Sara Painter and Ray Attock
You wouldn’t want to play fetch with this ball, buddy!
Cheryl Norman and Mark Norman
Bath Property Lettings: David Marquiss, Clemmie Cornwell, Emma Simmonds, Nathalie Thompson and Jon Sweeting
Royds Withy King: Charlotte Webb, Chris Kane, Laura Wilson, James Worrall, Lydia Excell, Dave Wilcox and Emma Robson
It’s a long shot
The festival vibe was alive and kickin’
Mogers Drewitt: Lucy Cotterell, Tom Webb, Emily Eccles, Sean Russell, Louise Howman, Orlando Beckett, David Hill and Lucy Hill
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B AT H B O U L E S 2017
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We’re livin’ la vida loca!
“By Jove, I almost had it!”
A Jane Austen-esque trio of gentlemen
Team Bath Academy
Fantasy Faces The Cleveland Pools team give it their best shot Xxxxxxx Team Prezola looked pretty in pink
You’re under arrest for having too much fun!
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B AT H B O U L E S 2017
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Ph o t o s b y R I C H H OW M A N Food plus friends equals fun
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Fantasy Faces did some amazing face painting for the kids
That’s the Hawaiian spirit
“Wake me up when it’s my turn”
The happiest sailors around
“We’re having such a Boule, aren’t we, darling?”
There was plenty of Pimm’s for everyone Cool and the Gang 20 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
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B AT H B O U L E S 2017
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Ph o t o s b y R I C H M O R R I S Beckford James having a blast
The bars proved popular throughout the weekend
Lovehoney was one of the event’s sponsors
The activity and play areas proved popular The Deloitte team raise a glass
The Volunteer Centre team The teams had a big crowd to please
The Half Moon Bay team
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B AT H B O U L E S 2017
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Maria Arvanitaki Team Mentoring Plus
Lots of prizes to be won
John Slater
It was a close call
The Graham and Green team
Demi Reid
The Bath Birds team
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Lee and Alex – Claude the Butler
SOCIETY
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CREATIVIT Y’S THE WINNER – ALWAYS
Stride Treglown come out victorious in the Architect and Building category
Body-painting, secret cinema, fire art, a theatre bus, art installations, bands, performance art and even a contortionist featured at the triumphant first Creative Bath Awards in Queen Square. The sold-out event had 310 people in the Boules marquee plus over 250 more at the Summer Party in the square during the evening. The winners were: Living Map (which also won the overall ACE Award), Ready, Anthem Publishing, The Guild, Stride Treglown, New Old Friends, Blispa, Shift Active Media, Art at the Heart, Bath Cake Company, Luke Taylor, 44AD, Mytton Williams, Kaleidoscope Collection, Suited & Booted, Show of Strength, We Are Reach and Paolo Ferla Photography. The Awards were sponsored by Bath Spa Uni and the Award itself was made by design student, Ross Bennett after a competition at the uni. “It was an incredible evening: a superb, high profile way to celebrate diverse creative excellence in Bath,” said chairman, Greg Ingham. Creative Bath brings together creative, tech and cultural professionals and students to promote the sector. www.creativebath.org Photos by Chris Daw www.chrisdawphotography.com
Jon Monie, Dave Dixon and Greg Ingham on stage
Suited & Booted pick up the Film, TV and Video award
Svetlana Antonova, Katie O’Brien and Craig Jenkins from 44AD win the Creative Arts Organisation award Boss Morris dancers
Chloe O’Connell, Helen Rich, Richard Godfrey and Kendall Miller
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SOCIETY
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www.netitude.co.uk Tom Lewis and The Guild team collect their award for best Creative Space
Paolo Ferla wins the Photography award
Hundreds of people attended the event
Jamma de Samba entertained everyone
Jake Xu from Ready wins the Marketing Campaign award
Harriet Gallon, Jesse Loughborough, Jo Menneer, Emilie Giotti
Morris dancers keep everyone entertained
Hannah Lee and Bob Mytton of Mytton Williams collect their award for best Designer
David Jackson and Nathan Ditum from We Are Reach pick up the New Creative Business award
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SOCIETY
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LOVE NEVER GROWS OLD
Gary Ayckbourn, Trish Murray, Mark Ayckbourn, Migual Capilla and Kate Hodgson-Egan
This month, MediaClash organised a summer party on behalf of Lovehoney who were celebrating their 15th birthday. Around 350 guests attended this private event in Queen Square where famous local band the Wurzels played some of their muchloved songs, and everyone enjoyed the fun-at-the-fair carnival theme as there were myriad games including the coconut shy, skittles and hook-a-duck. Not to mention a tarot card reader, a candy floss cart and even a bucking rodeo sheep. Photos by Paolo Ferla www.ferlapaolo.com
Lucy Bailache, Tomas Wilk, Sarah Lang and Jim Primrose
Laura Wood, Jade Bawa and Jane Bowles
Sammi Cole and Jess Wilde
Miles Bellerby, Tracey Cox, Sean O’Brien and Jules Stenson Tracey Muoio, Katy Boyce and Lucy Hood
Lovehoney founders Richard Longhurst and Neal Slateford
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Sebastian Gonzalez and Kerin De Francis
SOCIETY
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FOR THE CHILDREN
Nicola Finlay, Lucy Wallis and Emma Robbins
The Roman Baths was turned into a venue for a recent celebratory event hosted by local charity Children’s Hospice South West who marked their 10th anniversary. The evening was well attended by prominent members of the Bath community including Deputy Mayor, Councillor June Player, and TV personality Martin Roberts as well as local families who have first-hand experience of the service CHSW provides. Photos by Beata Cosgrove www.beatacosgrovephotography.com
Emily Mitchard and Emma McKeown
Pippa Russell, Martin Roberts and Leonie Spencer Carol England and John Palmer
Fiona Finlay and Diluki Kevitiyagala
Jasmine Walkes and Laura Knight
Beth Windess and Sarah Evans Sue Wright and Derek Merkl
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SOCIETY
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BUILDING TRUST
Joanna Robinson and Jonathan Walker
Last month, the Bath Preservation Trust launched an easy-to-read book giving guidance on how to make changes to listed buildings in Bath, called Making Changes. Guests who were invited to the launch of the book at No.15 Great Pulteney were given a free copy and a chance to network among their fellow architects, lawyers, business people and estate agents.
Thomas Sheppard, Andrew Vines and Caroline Kay
Photos by Jeni Meade www.jeni-meade-photography.com
Emma Wyatt and Carl Parker
A FAMILY AFFAIR
Mark Wiltshire and James Dean
Wendy Tippett and Andrew Kenyon
To celebrate the opening of a new exhibition showing the work of the late Ian Fraser, Bath Contemporary hosted a special evening where guests got to meet Fraser’s youngest son Alex and talk to him about his father’s work. Around 60 guests sipped Prosecco whilst they admired the oil paintings and prints on show. Photos by Claire Norrish www.clairenorrish.com George Duncan and Natalie Duncan Aliyah Owen and Jane Lorimer
Bruce Keeling and Lisa Monteith
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Kim, Ellie, Poppy and Alex Fraser
A MAN’S WORLD
DAVID FLATMAN
HAVING A COOKOUT Even if he has to perch alone at his 20-seater garden table while his family glare on disappointedly, Flats’ passion for al fresco dining can’t be broken
I
f pushed during a counselling session, I’d probably say that al fresco dining is the primary point of conflict in my marriage. Yes, the traditional, passive aggressive atmosphere surrounding the unloading of the dishwasher remains, as does the deliberate clanging while washing up the other’s kitchen mess. But the lack of use given to our garden furniture is the issue that has chewed its way furthest into my barbequed brain. The first table was too small, so I had a huge one made from whole scaffolding planks. And guess what? Buying 20 individual chairs to go round it was too expensive, so I had benches made from those same planks. Too cumbersome now though, aren’t they. Obviously, sitting on the patio and looking out over a beautiful garden and view isn’t sufficiently atmospheric for Mrs F, so I had installed some outdoor speakers in order that, via my iPhone, we can listen to some gangster rap while eating ribs. Ah, that’s the thing. Mrs F also largely dislikes barbeques. I mean, who on bloody earth doesn’t love a barbie? I remain convinced that she used to love them but, ever since I became more and more interested in calling outdoor cooking an interest, she has gone right off the idea. I’m taking it personally. So, furniture built, music sorted, sympathetic requests for food taken, surely we were all set to become that adventurous, outdoorsy family that has others admiring them from their Facebook accounts. But no. Once it became clear that I was willing to do whatever it took to make al fresco mealtimes more appealing, Mrs F went large. “Our garden’s too windy,” she said, “And you can’t deny that.” “Yes I can,” I countered. “I am standing in our garden right now and there is no wind. None.
Zero.” “Oh shut up,” she concluded. So with a house move on the cards, I’m having to be realistic about whatever outdoor dining area we might create. Mrs F wants a small area, because what’s the point of a big one as we never use them? And I want a bigger area in order that our friends won’t have to sit on the floor next summer. I love cooking outside, and gladly spend all day nipping out to check charcoal or wood pellet levels on an all-day cook. Were it up to me, my family would join me out there, sharing my passion and staying together as a unit. The children, though, have been brainwashed. You see, Mummy rules this house, and Daddy is firmly second in the pecking order (I blame Peppa Pig, seriously). This means that the minute Mrs F rolls her eyes at my hoisting another slab of meat from the fridge, both of my daughters instantly hate all barbequed food. As it happens, they both love it, but the loyalty to their mother proves too strong for them to admit it. It’s an interesting dynamic, and one that perhaps ought to shape my plans for our very own central Bath al fresco experience. Thing is, though, it isn’t. I’m a dreamer, and my plans remain grand (well, we’re talking about a tin and timber shack here, but still). No, I refuse to give ground when it comes to the outdoor eating thing. I will have my fire pit, and I will have my collection of grills. And I’ll enjoy the whole thing, even if I’m sitting alone, being glared at in a disappointed way by six beady, female eyes.
I MEAN, WHO ON BLOODY EARTH DOESN’T LOVE A BARBIE?
David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on Twitter @davidflatman
GIRL ABOUT TOWN
PHILIPPA MAY
CLOSE TO HOME
EVERYTHING HAS A BACKSTORY; SOMETIMES IT’S NICE TO KNOW WHERE THINGS COME FROM AND WHO MADE THEM IN THE FIRST PLACE
Philippa May shares her favourite independent shops in Bath, especially those which specialise in one-off pieces with a history behind them
T
he saying goes that your home is your castle, so when it comes to decorating it, I think you should treat your choices carefully, ensuring that your personality and charm is reflected in the pieces that you choose, and that the pieces are from somewhere that embodies your values too. Everything has a backstory; sometimes it’s nice to know where things come from and who made them in the first place. When it comes to interior design, for me, sourcing unique items that feel personal is the key to success. Although I do love a certain Swedish brand for easy basics, Bath is full of wonderful treasure troves to explore, and nothing will give you the same satisfaction as wandering the city and finding something brand new every time. From vintage items to contemporary designs, Bath’s independent shops have something for everyone. In the same way that each of us embraces an individual style for our wardrobe, we also like to have an individual style for our homes, and so finding shops that live life outside of the box and hit back at the everhomogenising high street, means you can always find something wonderful and personal. I’m fortunate enough to live up the road from a fantastic shop called Homefront Interiors. As soon as the bright, neon sign was placed on the pavement of Margaret’s Buildings, I knew the shop was going to be a great new find for me. With a wonderful sustainable angle of sourcing only pieces with a history, you’ll find an Aladdin’s cave here. Every item has that story I’m telling you about: fairtrade origins, small-scale handmade production runs, or vintage and
recycled finds to get excited about. You never know quite what you’ll find; the way it has been thoughtfully curated with such personality is one of the reasons I love Bath and its many incredible independents. Margaret’s Buildings is one of my favourite haunts on a sunny weekend and I would say it’s probably one of Bath’s loveliest spots – a picturesque street lined with indie shops such as Homefront and Uber, with coffee stops and breakfast spots such as The Green Bird Cafe keeping you from ever needing to venture down into the centre of town if the mood doesn’t strike you. This thriving pedestrian street never fails to put a smile on my face; it almost makes you feel like you’re in a separate, special al fresco town altogether, especially with the wonderful scents of the carefully potted public herbs. Bath has become a city full of special districts all with something unique to offer. You have Kingsmead Square for Parisian-style outdoor dining, and Walcot Street’s artisan quarter where you’ll find a selection of small businesses such as Sam’s Kitchen, Meticulous Ink (who do amazing calligraphy classes) or Johns Bikes. But my go-to for a weekend treat is The Fig Store – a tranquil and rustic shop absolutely oozing charm, and housing beautifully neutral linens, woven baskets and homeware with proper character – perfect for a Georgian home. Most of their furniture items are one-offs, and their handpicked tableware always has me melting with excitement. With the weather getting ever brighter, I might have to hide my wallet... Philippa May is an interiors enthusiast and the designer and brand creative manager for accessories label Abbott Lyon. Follow her on Instagram @_philippamay_
Evening Champagne Cruises Come and join us and take advantage of our unique offering, Sally Narrowboats is the only company that offer this unique service on this part of the Kennet and Avon canal, offering our guests a wonderful summers evening enjoying a champagne cruise. The starting point is from our marina in Bradford–on-Avon where we will take you Eastwards towards Semington. On arrival guests will be offered a glass of champagne served in lead crystal flutes, or a soft alternative for the non drinkers. Then you can settle back into the cushions with your fellow guests whilst your skipper takes you for an unforgettable, relaxing cruise with only the sounds of the gently lapping water, birdsong and your laughter to hear. Your skipper will gently take you through the winding waterways of the canal where you will moor up for a short break where you will be offered more champagne and some luxury canapés before turning around to head back to Bradford on Avon arriving back at our marina for approximately 9pm. £27.50 per person
Bath is full of nooks, crannies, passages and streets filled with effervescent independent shops to explore
Loving local As July is Independent Retailer Month, and as Bath is so choc-full of small, local businesses, here we talk to, and about, 53 of the best indie shops, apps and networks in the city‌ By L I SA E VA NS 40 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
SHOPPING
“Be a leader, not a sheep”
B
ath is one of the best shopping destinations in the UK, and that is helped, to a rather large degree, by its fabulous independent retailers who offer unique items as well as passion and enthusiasm for their livelihoods. As Independent Retailer Month runs throughout July, we thought this would be a brilliant opportunity to get into the heart of the community chatter and catch up with some of the best indie community champions on our doorstep. “Independent businesses are incredibly important in attracting visitors to Bath and making the city a first-class shopping destination,” says David James, chief executive for Visit Bath. “As part of our on-going marketing strategy, Visit Bath are working in partnership with the Bath Business Improvement District [BID] to support independent retailers in the city during Independent Retailer Month. The aim is to highlight Bath’s unique and vibrant retail offer to residents as well as visitors, encouraging them to support the local economy.” Read on to get to know the people behind Bath’s small businesses and why they think indies can only continue to thrive and grow by providing special experiences to shoppers.
KEEPING THE LOVE LOCAL IS DEFINITELY
The quote above is a message that Tessa Brand, managing director at The Dressing Room – a lingerie, beach and nightwear shop on Quiet Street, Bath – wants to spread to shoppers who mainly spend their money in chain stores. She says that for independent shops to keep thriving, customers must keep coming through the doors. “Who wants to be a clothing clone of every other person?” says Tessa, who bought the business 14 years ago. “Find something different and fabulous! “Smaller, local businesses bring something different to the the city which, in turn, encourages shoppers to visit Bath from other parts of the country because people don’t always want to look the same, have the same, or see the same,” she adds. “When customers walk into my shop, more often than not, they are greeted with a, ‘Good morning Mrs Smith,’ – we know them. It’s much more personal than walking into a chain store. Your custom is truly appreciated.” Heidi Laughton, the owner of Gallery & Barrow – a new art gallery on Walcot Street – agrees that the personal touch offered at unique and individual businesses can’t be beaten. “For us, being an independent gallery means we have the opportunity to get to know all of the artists whose work we show, on an intimate level,” she says. “All our pieces are one-offs.” The effort that goes into selecting items, specifically chosen for the Bath market, is one aspect of indie shops that Ann-Marie James, the buying director at Rossiters of Bath – a furniture, homeware and gifts emporium on Broad Street – says makes them stand out. “Independents work hard to provide good value for their customers as they are aware that they need to be competitive, so you can be confident that they have done a lot of groundwork seeking out the best products on your behalf,” she says. “Independents know their local market extremely well and so their edit will suit you as they’ve had you in mind when putting it together – we don’t ever have to appeal to the mass market.”
GOOD KARMA
Above: My Small World Toy Store’s aim is to find well-designed, interesting and durable playthings for children; right: At Homefront Interiors, you’ll stumble upon an eclectic mix of homeware pieces
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SHOPPING
“People often risk everything”
Vanessa Clark, the owner of Homefront Interiors on Margaret’s Buildings, shares the above comment with us to spread awareness that independent shop owners such as her put their whole hearts into their business. “We all like to live in nice cities with interesting shops, but the people who run the businesses often risked everything to open them,” says Vanessa, whose business specialises in eclectic home interior pieces. “With the growth of online shopping, it has become harder and harder for independents to compete.” But Dawn Burden, the director of My Small World Toy Store in SouthGate says that there’s an immense silver, or, rather, gold, lining for the indie shops as far as high street competition goes, as she explains, “Independents can only continue to thrive and grow by providing unique experiences to shoppers. More than anything else, indies provide a point of difference – they deliver colour, diversity and originality to what might otherwise become an increasingly bland offering.” A common theme among indie shops is a family link within the businesses, whether the shop was passed down through generations or whether family members all work together under one
WE DON’T EVER HAVE TO
APPEAL TO THE MASS MARKET
roof, so there’s often a lot to lose, but so much to gain, as Edward Taylor, the managing director of Framecraft, a picture framers in Green Park Station, elaborates on. “My father set up this business after leaving the RAF in 1991 and we signed the lease for our first Green Park Station shop on Christmas Day that year,” says Edward, at whose shop everything from the original Titanic schematics, to Olympic gold medals have been framed. “Ten years later, we acquired the adjoining shop, which is now our party products shop; this was run by my mother. I took over from my father, and my wife joined me. We have also had a number of dedicated and long-serving staff members who have helped us over the years to continue to make this business a success.” Even when the employees aren’t blood relations, small businesses help you feel part of it, reckons James Hughes, head of business at shoe shop Loake Bath on Green Street. “We are all made to feel part of the family,” he says, commenting that the customers, in a way, are too. “Shoppers are not supporting a big multinational with share holders, they’re supporting families and individuals who care about what you are buying.”
Rossiters of Bath on Broad Street has gone from a small shop to the thriving four-floor emporium it is today
42 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
All change Business as usual The Framing Workshop— The Next 2 8 Y e a r s i n W a l c o t St r e e t
T
wenty eight years ago Martin Tracy, along with his partner Julia, started their own business, The Framing Workshop, in what was then a rapidly changing Walcot Street. Walcot continues to evolve and it was with this in mind that Martin and Julia began to think about the future of their business and how it would continue to serve their clients, Walcot’s community, the city and their long standing, loyal and experienced staff.
Over the past eighteen months or so, a plan has evolved that will ensure the longevity of The Framing Workshop. Martin explains, “ As we approached an age when we were having to think about our future, along with that of our all consuming business, I was determined to safe guard and maintain our existing integrities. The most significant of these has been the seeking of options for continuity and a solution in providing us with the confidence that our clients, together with our staff will continue to be looked after in the same way. We were therefore delighted when Ian and Hannah Pittman, who between them have over twenty five years of experience working at The Framing Workshop, took over the business as their own”. Ian and Hannah are delighted to be continuing The Framing Workshop with the same traditional values of customer service, high quality materials and creativity - still as a truly independent, family run business. Ian says, “Martin has set the standard of the reliable high-quality service for which The Framing Workshop is known. We are excited to be taking The Framing Workshop into its next 28 years with the wonderful, dedicated staff”.
80 WALCOT STREET, BATH BA1 5BD TEL : 01225 482748 www.theframingworkshop.com framing@theframingworkshop.com
known for its variety of independents on the high street, and Robert Welch is proud to be part of a vibrant area close to the artisan Walcot Street. You really receive a personal service when you shop in independents. “Whenever we can, we work with partners in the independent community,” adds Rosalind, who is looking forward to the Bath shop’s fifth anniversary this October. “We also try to support Visit Bath initiatives like The Great Bath Feast and Bath in Fashion.”
Photo by Jesper Mattias
“So much more than just a transaction”
“Although we are an international business…”
We thought it would be interesting to pose the question of indie shopping to brands with a handful of UK shops or even an international presence, such as homeware store OKA, which has 14 sites, and kitchen and dining retailer Robert Welch Designs, which has two studio shops along with a presence in over 200 independent cook shops and department stores. “As a small city, the quality and diversity of independent businesses is outstanding, and we all try to support and encourage each other,” says Alison Sutton, the store manager at OKA Bath on Milsom Street. “Indies are as important as larger businesses to the Bath BID and they are very supportive in terms of creating events. There is a Twitter group called @bathindiechat which does an excellent job of gaining exposure for independent retailers, getting us talking and recommending each other, and the Bath Business Women’s Association [BBWA], of which I am a member, is a fantastic opportunity for local women in business to get together and network with each other. “Having interesting independents is a real draw for tourists who love to come to Bath to shop in more well-known stores,” adds Alison, who will be celebrating OKA’s 18th birthday this year. “But also to explore Bath’s small treasures, which add variety to the high street that in a lot of cases is a unique offering unavailable elsewhere. If you value diversity, then supporting local retailers is essential. Without you they won’t be here.” Rosalind Butt, the manager of the Robert Welch Designs studio shop on Broad Street, adds, “Although we are an international business, we provide a very personal approach in store. Bath is 44 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Above: find specialist magazines, zines and quirky art books at Magalleria; below: hunt for classic, contemporary, couture and vintage jewellery pieces at Alexandra May; opposite page, top: the artwork at Gallery & Barrow is mainly by Bath artists; below: Rossiters’ range is aimed wholly at the local market, never for the masses
This motto was given to us by Michelle Aitken, a joint partner of homeware shop Verve on London Road, who adds that it’s not just about having customers coming in, buying something, then leaving, but creating a whole experience for the consumers that they may not receive in much larger stores. “That’s a huge advantage of shopping at an independent,” she says. “You will usually get a warm welcome, along with evidence of a real passion for whatever the shop owner does or sells. It’s about a personal touch, reflected in a willingness to share and to help – in other words, great customer service that isn’t all about selling.” And Alexandra May, the founder and owner of her eponymous jewellery shop on Brock Street, which has been running for 20 years and has just been completely refurbished, says she has one piece of advice for shoppers who want to support the indies. “Think outside the box!” she says. “Shopping shouldn’t simply be about instant gratification. You can support small traders, have great conversations and come away with an exclusive item.”
“We help each other”
People don’t always want to look the same,
have the same, or see the
same
This comment comes from Calvin O’Keefe, the store manager at Johns Bikes – which has been running since 1976 – on Walcot Street, who says the community spirit between independent business owners is unmistakable.
SHOPPING
“Independent Retailer Month is so important”
Throughout July, Bath will celebrate the annual campaign that is Independent Retailer Month by offering discounts and hosting events throughout the city. Verve, for example, will be offering free mini styling sessions to those struggling with a home décor dilemma; Rossiters of Bath are doing promotions in their kitchen and furniture departments; Magalleria will be running special offers; Loake Bath will open later on Thursday evenings throughout the month; and Homefront Interiors will offer a prize draw for customers signing up to their monthly newsletter. “Being a Bath indie store is a badge we wear with immense pride,” says Dawn Burden at My Small World. “But what we want more than anything else is to encourage everyone we meet during Independent Retailer Month to make a conscious choice to shop with indies during this special month – for everything from coffee, to clothes to fruit and veg. We know that when people choose to do this they suddenly become aware of a whole vibrant community they might only have been partially aware existed. People have told us they feel less invisible and far more connected to the community and the city. “Shopping becomes richer, warmer and far more enjoyable because human connection from people who care about what they do is an unbeatable daily experience. It’s why we’ll be “We’re on Walcot Street, which is full to bursting with independent traders,” he says. “We tend to help each other via Twitter retweets to keep the area busy; the more people who come see them will visit us too!” Daniel McCabe, the co-owner of Magalleria on Broad Street, agrees that, in spite of being busy, local indies always work together and support each other. “Bath is a small city that invites its visitors to wander around on foot,” says Daniel, who runs his specialist magazines shop with Susan Greenwood. “The opportunity to find quirky and niche shops is a real bonus for visitors, and we provide an excuse to delve into the upper reaches of the city, way beyond the tourist gathering spots. “Silvana at the The Foodie Bugle on Abbey Street is a force of nature promoting Bath as a destination for independent shoppers,” he adds. “The nature of our business means we have to engage with and advise our customers, and, when asked, always recommend other indie hubs such as Walcot Street and Bartlett Street.” James Hughes at Loake Bath comments that he takes pride in walking his customers to other shops, introducing them to the shop keepers, and knowing they’ll be well looked after. And AnnMarie James at Rossiters thinks the local retailers’ network is ever-growing in momentum, and much more attention is being paid to the role that independents play in the community. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 45
encouraging people to give the new Pixie app [a Bath independent shops loyalty scheme app] a try this month, as it opens up a whole new world you might never have known existed.” One of the most wide-spread events taking place in the city during July, and continuing until the end of August, is the Nicholas Wylde Treasure Hunt – organised in collaboration with Visit Bath. Jewelled treasures have been hidden in secret retail locations around the city, ready to be tracked down by contestants who must solve location clues. The competition involves 35 other independent retailers in Bath – including the likes of Yum Yum Thai, Moss of Bath, Taste of Bath, and Chanii B – which Nicholas, an award-winning independent jeweller with his own patented diamond, explains allows for cross-promotion for all while flying the flag for indie shops. “It offers people the chance to win a stunning prize package which is £10k in value,” says Nicholas, whose shop is on Northumberland Place, and who is celebrating 30 years in business, which he says proves that independent retailers can not only survive but flourish. “So far, over 3,000 people from all over the country have registered online to participate; this is driving visitors to the city and increasing awareness of other indie traders.”
PHOTO BY GEORGIE - THE BATHONIAN
SHOPPING
Verve specialises in original, contemporary and vintage decorative items for the home
INDIE LOVE Here, Bath shop owners name their favourite independent shops which they encourage you to try out during Independent Retailer Week: Michelle Aitken at Verve: “We have some great neighbours including The Small Shop, The Bath Framer and Pencil Tree, and, for a fashion splurge, we love Grace & Mabel, The Loft, and Found.” Alexandra May: “It’s so hard to choose! The Salcombe Trading Company, The Green Bird Cafe, Uber, and Shannon.” Heidi Laughton at Gallery & Barrow: “We love Minerva Art Supplies, Meltone Gallery, Katherine Fraser, and The Framing workshop.” James Hughes at Loake Bath: “I love Grace & Ted, and Havana House with Kelvin and his cigars.”
Staff at Robert Welch Designs’ studio shop in Bath work with partners in the independent community as often as they can
Find high-end lingerie, beach and nightwear at The Dressing Room
Ann-Marie James at Rossiters: “I’m a big fan of LittleLAB – whose approach to makeup is particularly innovative – and Magalleria, as I’m a sucker for style magazines.” Johns Bikes: “Sam’s Kitchen, and Vintage ’n’ Rare Guitars are great.” Tessa Brand at The Dressing Room: “I adore Bath Guildhall Market, and Mallory (my daughter calls me Maggie – short for Magpie – due to my love of everything sparkly).”
“Making a change”
Alexandra May, who lives above her shop, explains the local community is working hard to change the way indies are viewed, “It’s incredibly hard work running your own business as well as trying to hold your own against the larger chains, so its wonderful when there is a strong, unified support network of independent traders.” If Michelle Aitken at Verve had the power to help small businesses become even more visible, she would urge the policies of the authorities to do more to recognise the value of a thriving independent sector that inspires creativity and entrepreneurship and celebrates local talent. This, she says, would include: investing in better promotion and sign-posting so that visitors know where to find all the lovely nooks and crannies, and developing a rent structure that encourages independent businesses rather than puts them off. For her, it’s all about celebrating what is unique and special about this beautiful city and the people who work here. “It sometimes feels as if the most attention independent shops are getting is when they close down,” adds Tessa Brand at The Dressing Room. “This, in my mind, is largely due to the rates which seem disproportionate to the premises on offer and needs to be addressed by the landlords before beautiful Bath ends up looking like any other high street across the country. Let’s keep the indies alive!” And Emma Savage, the co-owner of luxury designer shop Grace & Ted on Kingsmead Square, concludes, “When we shop with independent businesses, the money is going straight back into Bath’s economy. Keeping the love local is definitely good karma.” BATH LIFE INDIE SHOPPING DEALS FOR JULY
Dawn Burden at My Small World: “Didicakes, Olé Tapas, Mr B’s Emporium, Article, and Grasse.” Daniel McCabe at Magalleria: “Running Bath, and Not Just Pets.” Vanessa Clark at Homefront Interiors: “I’d choose Crystals, Heavens Bazaar, and Vintage to Vogue.” 46 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Get a 20 per cent discount on items at Alexandra May on Brock Street when you bring this Bath Life article into the shop. Receive 10 per cent store credit back on any bike when you mention Bath Life at Johns Bikes on Walcot Street. Terms and conditions apply.
ÂŁ10 voucher to spend instore Name:
email:
Offer valid instore only until 31.08.17
SHOPPING
DIRECTORY Local businesses primed to help
Fashion
Cutler and Gross 9 Bridge Street, Bath; 01225 428427; www.cutlerandgross.com The Dressing Room 7 Quiet Street, Bath; 01225 330563; www.dressingroombath.com John Anthony 26-28 High Street, Bath 01225 424066; www.john-anthony.com Loake 15 Green Street, Bath; 01225 428081; www.loake.co.uk One Two Five Gallery 4 Abbey Green, Bath; 07803 033629; www.onetwofivegallery.co.uk
Jewellery
Alexandra May 23 Brock Street, Bath; 01225 465094; www.alexandramay.com Bill Skinner 15 Northumberland Place, Bath; 01959 526254; www.billskinnerstudio.co.uk Gold and Platinum Studio 19 Northumberland Place, Bath 01225 462300; www.goldandplatinumstudio. co.uk
Nigel Dando 11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath 01225 464013; www.nigeldando.co.uk
Rossiters 38-41 Broad Street, Bath 01225 462227; www.rossitersofbath.com
Interiors
Silcox Son and Wicks 5-7 New Street, Bath 01225 463933; www.silcox.co.uk
The Curtain Exchange 11 Widcombe Hill, Bath 01225 422078; www.thecurtainexchange.co.uk Dible and Roy Bridge House, Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon; 01225 862320; www.dibleandroy.co.uk Digger and Mojo Unit A, Nursery Farm, Woodborough, Pewsey; 01672 851510; www.diggerandmojo.com
Verve Living 15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; 07785 332536; ww.verveliving.uk Woodhouse and Law 4 Georges Place, Bath 01225 428072; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk
Framing
The Fig Store 76 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 428031; www.thefigstore.com
The Bath Framer 7 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; 01225 920210; www.thebathpictureframer.co.uk
Graham and Green 92 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 418300; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk
Framecraft Bath Green Park Station, Bath; 01225 447072; www.framecraft.com
Haliden Oriental Carpets 98 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 469240; www.haliden.com
The Framing Workshop 80 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 482748; www.theframingworkshop.com
Homefront 10 Margarets Buildings, Bath; 01225 571711; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk
Food
Jody Cory 9, Abbey Churchyard, Bath; 01225 460072; www.jodycory.co.uk
OKA 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath; 01225 443074; www.oka.com
Mallory 1-5 Bridge Street; 01225 788800; www.mallory-jewellers.com
Old Bank Antiques 16 & 17 Walcot Buildings, Bath; 01225 338813; www.oldbankantiquescentre.com
Nicholas Wylde 12 Northumberland Place, Bath; 01225 462826; www.nicholaswylde.com
Pefect Rooms Silver Street, Gastard, Corsham; 01249 716445; www.perfectrooms.co.uk
48 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Guildhall Deli 55-57 Guildhall Market, Bath 01225 427195; www.theguildhalldeli.co.uk Robert Welch 6 Broad Street, Bath 01225 336530 www.robertwelch.com The Tasting Room 6 Green St, Bath; 01225 483070; www.tastingroom.co.uk
Childrens
My Small World 19-21 St Lawrence Street,
SouthGate, Bath; 01225 312943; www.mysmallworld.co.uk Spotty Herberts 5 Queen Street, Bath 01225 331834; www.spottyherberts.com Up to Seven Northgate Street, Bath, 01225 422333; www.uptoseven.co.uk
Other
Ace Optics and Cameras 16 Green Street, Bath; 01225 466364; www.aceoptics.co.uk London Camera Exchange 13 Cheap Street, Bath; 01225 462234; www.lcegroup.co.uk Magalleria 22A Broad Street, Bath; 01225 471586; www.magalleria.co.uk Moss of Bath 45 St James’s Parade, Bath; 01225 331441; www.mossofbath.co.uk Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights 14-15 John Street, Bath 01225 331155; www.mrbsemporium.com Natural Spa Factory Foxcote Ave, Peasedown St John; 01225 582888; www.naturalspafactory.com Take Charge Bikes 1 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Road, Bath; 01225 789568; www.takechargebikes.co.uk Woods The Stationers 12 Old Bond Street, Bath; 01225 445347; www.woodsthestationers.co.uk
T R A N S P O R T A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E
BATH’S OLDEST BIKE SHOP, BUT NEWEST CYCLE IDEAS Cycling options for everyone at JOHN’S BIKES on Walcot Street New Technology – eBikes Popularity of electric motor assisted eBikes is on the rise. They take the strain away, letting you arrive cool and fresh – whether you're commuting or just looking for a fun alternative to getting around town. eBikes give you the feeling that you’re almost always riding downhill, and great antidote to Bath’s vehicle congestion, parking scarcity and expense. Lyle from Bath’s oldest cycle shop, John’s Bikes, explained, “We have taken great care in picking which eBikes to stock, with quality our #1 priority. We’re delighted to sell Europe’s leading eBike brand, Kalkhoff, with its assurance of German engineering quality. Plus, now these bikes are available on a tax-free cycle to work scheme” Innovation in Cycle-to-Work A new kind of cycle to work scheme with no
upper price limit has recently appointed John's Bikes Bath as premier dealer – the Green Commute Initiative. No need to be constrained by the £1,000 max spend of other schemes. You still save up to 42% on the price, but now there's no final payment either. Lyle commented, “No limit on what you can spend means it is perfect for e-bikes, but all normal bikes still qualify too. So, more price flexibility to get the bike and accessories you really want.” We still love pedal power John’s Bikes has Bath’s largest range of bikes, parts, clothing and accessories. So, whether it’s a family leisure ride on the flat Bath to Bristol railway path, out with mates for a road rampage or the adrenaline rush of a mountain bike descent, get out, be healthy and enjoy the longer summer days.
July Offer To mark Independent Retailer Month, mention “Bath Life” in store and get 10% store credit back with any bike sale (e.g. £100 to spend in store with £1000 bike). For T&Cs see: johnsbikes.co.uk/website-terms.
John’s Bikes 82-84 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BD 01225 581 666 www.johnsbikes.co.uk
advertising feature s h o p p i n g
Shop local and rediscover your city This summer, support your local retailers and you’ll be surprised at what you might find
B
ath’s compact nature, pedestrianfriendly streets and profusion of independent and individual businesses make this city a top spot for shopping. And yet in this age of convenience it can be all too easy to update your wardrobe, order a gift or even furnish your home without leaving the house. With July’s Independent Retailer Month just around the corner we want you to get out there and rediscover those wonderful, individual and unique businesses that make this city so special. Running down the central spine of Bath is Milsom Street, Bath’s most fashionable street. As well as Jollys, the UK’s oldest department store, you’ll find all manner of independent names. Browse beautiful homewares in Vinegar Hill, shop for scarves, jewellery and gifts in French Grey, discover contemporary and vintage furnishings in Brissi and pop into Milsom Place to peruse the fabulous designer shoes in Chanii B. Venture around the corner to find Quiet Street Antiques, Kitchens and Paxton & Whitfield – the award-winning purveyors of artisan cheese. The city’s central area is a charming warren of alleyways including Union Passage,
“The city’s central area is a charming warren of alleyways” Northumberland Place and the Corridor – one of the first examples of an indoor shopping arcade. Follow the cobbled walkways to discover bespoke jewellery at Nicholas Wylde, unique gifts at The Silver Shop, stylish fashions in Flock Bath and all manner of crafts, haberdashery and more at The Makery. Running parallel to Milsom Street, Broad Street is where you’ll find the award-winning independent department store Rossiters, as well as quirky fashions at Grace & Mabel, elegant British cutlery by Robert Welch and eclectic furniture at The Salcombe Trading Company. Continue north along the Paragon to spend an indulgent hour at the book-lover’s haven, Topping & Co Booksellers. The city’s Artisan Quarter can be found along Walcot Street. Blow your own bauble at Bath Aqua Glass, admire the plush furnishings and accessories at Graham
& Green and stroll further north to London Road to find all you need to style your home at Verve Living and TR Hayes. Bath’s individuality lies in its charming mix of old and new, balancing artisan chic with antique elegance and complementing contemporary style with quirky design. By supporting your local independent retailers this July you’ll not only discover an exciting new way to shop but also help keep this city unique and iconic. Visit Bath, in partnership with Bath Business Improvement District, supports Independent Retailer Month.
Business Improvement District www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 51
Laundry Services Tailored repairs and alterations Suede and Leather Cleaning
2 Suits Dry Cleaned for only £20
Digger & Mojo WOODBOROUGH
ANTIQUES, INTERIORS & GIFTS
We also restore antiques and update your furniture to order in our new Woodborough workshop
MENDING • PAINTING • REUPHOLSTERY
Van service available 6 Monmouth Place, Bath BA1 2AU Tel 01225 311595
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 11am – 5pm Digger & Mojo, Woodborough Yard SN9 5PF (Behind the wonderful sticks & stones café) 01672 851510 www.diggerandmojo.com
cutler and gr o ss feature
metal gurus A combination of British design and traditional Italian craftsmanship makes cutler and gross eyewear a rich fusion of fashion and function, to be admired and aspired to…
W
hat is it about glasses with tinted lenses? The summer season is almost upon us, and from festivals to city breaks, British luxury eyewear brand Cutler and Gross celebrates by adding to its capsule precious metal collection with two new, fresh styles. The timeless yet effortless appeal of the aviator takes its inspiration from the vintage 0740 frame and the flight cool navigator features a new, modern lens shape, both available in an array of washed out pastel colours. The collection features 12 frames across the two styles - the 1266 aviator and 1247 navigator - both made from stainless steel, either in silver with palladium plating or in gold with real gold plating. The frames feature a double metal bridge and adjustable hypo-allergenic, ceramic nose pads. Available in both optical and sunglass
options, they come in exquisite sunshine ready new colourways and feature a modern flat lens with 100% UV400 protection. The frames will be available at Cutler and Gross stores, online and at selected stockists worldwide from late June 2017, priced from £375 - £435.
About Cutler and Gross
Founded in 1969, British luxury eyewear brand Cutler and Gross combines the finest Italian craftsmanship with irrefutably cool style. Since its establishment in fashion’s halcyon days, the brand’s signature creativity has been applied to sunglasses and optical frames with their trademark numbered designs and absence of an ostentatious logo. The bold, individual style of Cutler and Gross has attracted some of the most prestigious names in the industry for collaborations — from design houses such as Erdem, Comme Des Garcons and Maison
Martin Margiela, to creative icons including Victoria Beckham, Roksanda Ilincic and Bella Freud, as well as limited edition launches such as Jay-Z for Barney’s New York. Considered bastions of iconic eyewear, opticals and sunglasses designed by the brand have been worn by some of the most recognisable faces of the last four decades. Brand fans include the legendary David Hockney, Grace Jones, Sir Elton John and Madonna, as well as influential artists and style leaders from Rihanna, Alicia Keys and Erykah Badu to Kate Moss and Manolo Blahnik.
Visit Cutler and Gross at 9 Bridge St, Bath, BA2 4AS www.cutlerandgross.com @cutlerandgross
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 53
F R A M I N G A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E
FRAMECRAFT RISES TO THE CHALLENGE FRAMECRAFT BATH LTD’S burgeoning reputation for taking on the most difficult framing projects was put to the test recently when a customer brought in a 1.8 metre by 1.5 metre cashmere rug
F
ramecraft owner, Ed Taylor, says that because of the size and weight of the rug the specification required great structural strength in the frame and glass. The customer also asked that only conservation grade framing materials should be used. The cashmere rug was hand stitched all round onto an acid free canvas background to stop it sagging under its own weight and in such a way that it could be easily removed if necessary in the future. Ed sourced an amazing 4.4mm laminated glass with 99% UV protection to prevent colour fade and a special non-reflective coating which makes the glass virtually invisible. The glass was also floated clear of the rug using a deep fillet which matched the frame rim. Ed’s team clearly rose to the challenge and, using all their expertise and experience, planned
and produced this magnificent end product, much to the delight of a very satisfied customer. Other recent interesting projects have included large volumes of frames for commercial premises at short notice; and several frames in excess of 8x5ft which were specifically sourced from three different countries. We continue to achieve and exceed our customers’ expectations. One of Bath’s longest running picture framers, Framecraft Bath Ltd is a family business which was established in 1991 and continues at its Green Park Station location. Framecraft is also a member of the Fine art Trade Guild and Ed Taylor is a Guild Commended Framer. Our website has over 3500 ready made frame options, a huge selection of mirrors, and helium balloons are available alongside our greetings cards at our second unit in Green Park Station.
Interiors & Homewares Handmade Reclaimed Vintage Finds Chalk Paint Workshops
10 Margaret's Buildings, Bath BA1 2LP homefrontinteriors.co.uk T: 01225 571711 E: info@homefrontinteriors.co.uk Paint Workshops | Lampshade Making | Memory Box Making
2-3 Green Park Station, Green Park Road, Bath BA1 1JB 01225 447 072 www.framecraftonline.com
F u r n i t u re - A r t - S t y li n g - A c c e ssori e s
ve r ve li vi n g . u k 15 Walcot Buildings . London Rd. BA1 6AD 07785 332536 | 07712 467347
T H E C U R TA I N E X C H A N G E For the best dressed windows
IN BATH
11 Widcombe Parade, Bath, BA2 4JT | Tel: 01225 422078 | Email: curtainexchange@live.co.uk www.curtainexchangebath.co.uk
N I G H T W E A R & B E A C H T H E
F I N E S T
I N
L I N G E R I E ,
7 Quiet Street Bath BA1 2JU T: 01225 330563 E: info@dressingroombath.com www.dressingroombath.com
NOW OPEN
AS A FABULOUS AND UNIQUE JEWELLERY SHOP
POP IN AND SEE FOR YOURSELF 23 BROCK STREET BATH BA1 2LW WWW.ALEXANDRAMAY.COM 01225 465 094
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My Small World Little Southgate, Bath Tel. 01225 938338
6 Green Street, Bath BA1 2JY | 01225 483 070 www.tastingroom.co.uk
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The
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Situated in Bath’s famous indoor market er
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We stock a wide range of vegan, vegetarian and meat based products as well as delicious cakes and Bath Buns. Ideal for lunches, any time snacks or picnics. Come and order your food and collect it when you need it. We can even cater for small business lunches. Our range includes: Vegan, lamb or chicken samosas, veggie or meat pasties, bhajis, vegan or pork sausage rolls and veggie or pork scotch eggs. We also stock a range of speciality scotch eggs, pies and vegetarian quiches. Why not add a Lovely juice drink to your lunch time selection.
Open Mon - Sat, 9.30 - 17.00
8 Guildhall Market, Bath BA2 4AW • Tel: 01225 427195 email: guildhall-deli@hotmail.co.uk twitter: @GuildhallDeli
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01225 791155 ashford-homes.co.uk
5-day cooking lesson tours to Cinque Terre with professional and award-winning chefs “Before the big day� tours to the picturesque Lake Garda region For more information, visit our website www.doriatour.com
Music/theatre/film/more
BATH CARNIVAL
Bath Carnival will be bringing the streets of Bath to life this year on 15 July with its theme of Colourful Creatures. Everyone is invited to get dressed up as their favourite or imaginary creature and join in with the festivities, and if you need help making your costume there will be free workshops in Green Park Station in the run-up to the carnival. As part of the iconic event, there will be Samba bands, Mardi Gras brass and Caribbean steel pan drummers, mini-sound systems and lots of dancers parading through the city.
On the opening day in Sydney Gardens, the Smerins Anti-Social Club, a 10-piece line-up, will be headlining the show by performing tracks from their new album Jelly Deals. As well as live music, entertainment, a Super Pirates children’s play zone and dance and drumming workshops, this year’s Sydney Gardens party will feature a mouth-watering selection of independent food and drink traders hand-picked by Ash Bailey from local drinks company Henny & Joes. Food and fun – the best combination.
The carnival starts at 10am in Sydney Gardens and runs ‘til late. An after party will be held at Moles from 10pm and tickets cost £6 in advance. Visit www.bathcarnival.co.uk for more
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24 June – 22 July
Komedia will present the best rising stars in standup, including Angela Barnes, for its Edinburgh Fringe Previews; David Haig stars in the award-winning drama Racing Demon at Theatre Royal Bath; Lady Deirdre Dyson will be ‘In Conversation’ to discuss the inspiration behind her magnificent artistic carpets, at The Holburne Museum
Exhibitions U N TI L 3 0 JUNE
TAKING THE HIGH ROAD While travelling around Scotland last autumn, Nick Cudworth was inspired by the magnificent dramatic scenes of mountainous peaks, lakes and seascapes. Here he showcases a collection of paintings and prints from the beautiful Scottish Highlands. Nick Cudworth Gallery; www.nickcudworth.com U N TI L 3 0 JUNE
POSTCARDS FROM THE ARTIST AT ADAM GALLERY 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 distinct style, which the artist has developed over many years and has honed well. Adam Gallery; www.adamgallery.com U N TI L 1 JU 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
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by Edward Willis. David Simon Contemporary; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com
of a monumental humpbacked mountain rising in the landscape. 48 Great Pulteney Street, Bath; www.kitglaisyer.com
UNTIL 2 J ULY
JAMES URSELL AND KIT GLAISYER James Ursell is a guest artist at the Garden Flat Gallery from 24 to 25 June and 1 to 2 July, showing alongside resident artist Kit Glaisyer. The latest series of paintings by James Ursell have a colour palette reminiscent of the Vorticists’ early 20thcentury work, along with a fuzzy focus on the real and imagined, crepuscular and strange. Inspired by his (mis)rememberings of the Herefordshire borders, of “Places and times that, like it or not, stick in the mind and resonate”. His subjects are highly evocative; like a burst of birds in flight, or the presence and force
UNTIL 12 J U LY
FIND ANOTHER BATH This diverse collection of works 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 UNTIL 15 J U LY
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
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
U N TI L 2 9 OCTO BER
1920S 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
UNTI L 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 extremely impressive 20-year collection and highlights the best artwork of past and present. Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk
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 2 6 JU N E – 8 J ULY
TAPESTRY HERE AND NOW Celebrating the vibrancy of modern tapestry, this all-day exhibition showcases the work of more than 20 artists from as far afield as Australia, Latvia 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 interesting personal and political stories. The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org
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 aweinspiring dramatic, emotive landscapes. Bath Contemporary; www.bathcontemporary.com
UNTI L 2 9 O C T O B E R
2 7 JU N E – 9 SEP TEMBER
UNTI L 1 O C TO 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 eyecatching, colourful and innovative. American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org
THE BRUTALIST PLAYGROUND Edge Arts presents an exhibition that’s part sculpture, part architectural installation, by Turner prize winners Assemble & Simon Terrill, and that was commissioned by The Royal Institute of British Architects
Tim Carroll’s Caryatids is showcased at the Bath Society of Artists Annual Open
(RIBA). The artists have used archival materials, drawings and photographs from RIBA’s collections to create an interactive installation exploring the stark designs of post-war playgrounds. The Edge, University of Bath; www.edgearts.org
Rose’s Wellow studio. Emma was recently invited to be the wild card on Sky Arts’ Landscape Artist of the Year and reached the final of Creative Bath’s Arts Awards. Knight’s Barn, Wellow; www.emmaroseartworks.com 7 J ULY – 5 AU G U S T
30 J UNE – 1 J ULY
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 and resin sculptures of animals, delicate porcelain and gold vases, and objects along with paintings and prints of landscapes, real and imagined, are all exhibited in the idyllic setting of Emma
DAVID SIMON CONTEMPORARY This exhibition titled Floribundance Absolute showcases the work of Parastoo Ganjei and Chloë Holt. The inspirational finesse of these two female artists’ work spans continents and histories, expressing their love of the natural objects of choice to paint, through texture, intensity and a stylishly limited palette of depth and tone, over quantity of colours. From England, to the Royal Palaces of
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two and a quarter million copies. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
Brunei, collectors are responding to the emotion compelling you when you are standing in front of Holt’s and Ganjei’s paintings. The techniques both artists employ are complicated and thoughtful, resulting in the type of work which draws you back again and again to notice more each time, and really marvel at the work. David Simon Contemporary; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com
Music UNTIL 27 AU G U S T
SEBASTIAN WARD TURNER LANDSCAPES Sebastian Ward Turner, a young local artist, will be exhibiting his new work at The West Barn in Bradford on Avon. The exhibition entitled Viewpoint will be showcasing his oil paintings of landscapes and seascapes, inspired by some of the greatest impressionist and romantic painters of the 19th and 20thcentury. Near The Tithe Barn in Wiltshire; www.sebastianwardturner.com
Plays/Shows U N TI L 8 J ULY
RACING DEMON David Hare’s richly intelligent, funny and gripping drama received all four major Best Play Awards when it opened at the National Theatre in 1990 and has since been a hit all over the world. The story sees four clergymen seek to make sense of their mission in inner-city London whilst facing their own personal crises. David Haig plays Lionel Espy, a cleric whose faith is wavering as his parishioners dwindle; there’s tabloid-hounded gay vicar Harry Henderson; ‘Streaky’ Bacon, a genial reverend with a taste for tequila, and a charismatic young curate Tony Ferris. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
PHOTO BY ROSE CALLAHAN
14 – 1 6 J ULY
Jazz singer Hailey Tuck is set to mesmerise the audience at Iford Arts Festival
– all balanced on a contemporary knife-edge. There’s no doubt this will be an 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 5 – 2 6 JU LY
EDINBURGH FRINGE PREVIEWS AT KOMEDIA For the fourth year running, Komedia Bath is proud to present the very best rising stars in stand-up with a whole month of Edinburgh Fringe Previews. Kicking off the opening night of the previews season is Larry Dean – an award-winning comedian and writer. Other comics who will feature include Mike Bubbins, Pippa Evans, Marlon Davis and many more. Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 6 JU LY
30 JUNE
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
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
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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 AT MISSION THEATRE 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 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 11 – 15 J ULY
SAND IN THE SANDWICHES Following an acclaimed sell-out run at Chichester Festival Theatre, Edward Fox returns to Bath with his acclaimed portrayal of John Betjeman, poet laureate and one of the best loved poets of the 20thcentury. Sand in the Sandwiches celebrates a man famous not only for light verse and laughter, but for his passions, his sense of purpose and his unforgettable poetry. When his Collected Poems came out in 1958 they made publishing history and have since sold over
FROME JAZZ CLUB Every Sunday evening, the Frome Jazz Club will be hosting a different jazz band. The season includes seven dates, and features a number of 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. Tel: 01373 472 042 30 J UNE
BRIAN ROPER CONCERT Bath Philharmonia presents a concert dedicated to the memory of local philanthropist Brian Roper; a concert that encourages future generations to develop their own love of classical music. International renowned pianist Peter Donohoe performs Rachmaninov’s Third Piano Concerto in a programme of exotic orchestrations including Stravinsky’s Firebird and Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. 7.30pm, £25-£35. The Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk 1 J ULY
BATH BACH CHOIR’S BIG 70TH ANNIVERSARY 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 for Vespers on Christmas Day 1723 in St Thomas’s Leipzig, 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 J ULY
STEVE HARLEY & COCKNEY REBEL PLAY FROME With classic tracks like Here Comes The Sun and Make Me Smile (Come Up & See Me), Steve Harley’s career spans 11 albums
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and four decades. The lovable Cockney Rebel interrupts his extensive fundraising work to deliver a fun evening of archetypal pop and rock. 8pm, £27.50. Cheese & Grain; www.cheeseandgrain.com
and the gregarious, car-loving Toad as they attempt to recapture Toad Hall from the weasels and stoats of the Wild Wood. Lovely and charming entertainment for the whole family. 2pm-4pm, £8. The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk
15 JULY
A CELEBRATION OF FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS Europe’s No.1 tribute group Bye Bye Baby is more than your average tribute band. They deliver a full theatre show covering the journey of the Four Seasons from the very beginning up until the disco era and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It’s a musical journey through the sounds of one of the most successful bands of all time. 8pm10.30pm, £20. Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org
Family fun 1 JULY
INDEPENDENCE DAY FAIR AND BBQ Roll up, roll up, for the American Museum’s Independence Day Fair! Expect outdoor fun for all the family: classic fairground games, bouncy castle, craft activities, lip-smacking food from Spitfire BBQ, and live music throughout the afternoon. 10.30am-5pm, Price included with gardens admission (£7 per adult, £4.50 per child); www.americanmuseum.org 6 JULY
THE THIRD POLICEMAN BY FLANN O’BRIEN In the open air and under the stars, Miracle Theatre ventures into a world somewhere between Alice in Wonderland and Father Ted, where the earth is not round but sausage-shaped; where eccentric policemen fall in love with bicycles and you can visit eternity via a rickety lift, hidden beside a lane in the heart of rural Ireland. Bring folding chairs and a picnic. 7.30pm, £14/ £12. Wellow Recreation Ground; www.bathboxoffice.org 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
1 5 JU LY
BRADFORD ON AVON MINI BOOK FESTIVAL A celebration of children’s reading, bringing award winners and bestselling authors Gill Lewis and David Solomons to a tiny library. There’ll also be new books from Maudie Smith and Angie Morgan, editorial surgeries for hopeful writers from an editor at Chicken House Books, crime writing workshops, and mysteries galore for all ages. Children from four to 12 years of age can sign up for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. To reserve your free tickets,call the library on 01225 863 280. Bradford on Avon Library; boambf. wordpress.com
Other
Top to bottom: Bye Bye Baby tribute band will perform hits from several eras at Chapel Arts Centre; the Masonic Hall will host a Q&A on illustrator Chris Riddell
U N TI L 3 1 AU GUST
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 three-course dinner at the Roman Baths Kitchen. Or for an even bigger treat, there are packages that include a fourcourse meal at the glamorous Pump Room Restaurant and an evening at the Thermae Bath Spa. £15.50-£84.50. Last entry will be at 9pm. The Roman Baths; www.romanbaths.co.uk 2 8 JU N E
IN THIS CORNER OF THE WORLD [12A] This award-winning animated film follows a young girl named Suzu Urano, who in 1944 moves to the small town of Kure in Hiroshima where she marries Shusaku Hojo, a young clerk who works at the local naval base. In 1945, intense bombings by the US military finally reach Kure, with devastating effect and Suzu’s life is changed irrevocably. 8.45pm. The Little Theatre Cinema; www.picturehouses.com
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30 J UNE
IN CONVERSATION Join artist and carpet designer Lady Deirdre Dyson ‘In Conversation’ with Adrian Tinniswood to discover the inspirations behind her magnificent carpets, and the processes involved in translating her painted designs into woven form. The evening will reveal how an engagement with the natural world, materials and techniques, in addition to longstanding relationships with Nepalese communities, combine to produce the unique carpets. 7pm, £10 or free to Contemporary members. The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org 4 J ULY
KOMEDIA, BATH FILM FESTIVAL, THE TRANSITION NETWORK & CREATIVE BATH The network for creative, tech and cultural businesses, organisations and individuals — are teaming up to host a special screening of Tomorrow (Demain), a film by Cyril Dion and Mélanie Laurent. The evening will also feature a Q&A panel chaired by Rob Hopkins, Creator of the Transition Network, to explore how the
positives drawn from the film can have a real impact on life in Bath. It is a hugely positive and inspirational community-funded film, that explores creative solutions to the crises that humanity faces. Already viewed by over 1.5 million people in France alone, and winner of Best Documentary at the Cesar Awards (the French Oscars), Tomorrow has been hugely impactful and this will be the first independent screening of the film in the city of Bath. 7pm, £3. Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 10 J ULY
CHRIS RIDDELL Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights will be hosting a very special event with the Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell. Chris will join in with a live drawing Q&A event at Bath’s Masonic Hall. Go along with your questions at the ready and Chris will grant your answers via his distinctive line drawings. You could win your own live portrait session with Chris, who’ll create your caricature for you right then and there. 4.30pm, £6. The Masonic Hall, Old Orchard St; www.mrbsemporium.com
A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E C H A R I T Y
SATURDAY NIGHT DIVAS The Bath Moonlight Walk is DOROTHY HOUSE’S biggest annual fundraiser and last year it attracted almost 800 entrants who raised over £95,000 towards caring for people with life-limiting illnesses
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his year, Dorothy House Hospice Care’s Bath Moonlight Walk will be held on Saturday 9th September, with support from top athlete, Paralympic Swimming Champion, Stephanie Millward and Jo Muir, Modern Pentathlete and sports ambassador for Dorothy House. The womenonly sponsored 8km Moonlight Walk, now in its eleventh year, is an unmissable fundraising event for so many local women and starts from the SouthGate Shopping Centre in Bath at 10pm. This year’s theme for the Bath Moonlight Walk is ‘Saturday Night Diva’ and aims to bring women together to celebrate life with their friends, mothers, daughters, aunts, grandmas and sisters and to champion all those women affected by, or instrumental in, end of life care in the community. Walkers are invited to dress in their best glittery disco gear to celebrate the vital work of Dorothy House and share a great night out. The Walk is open to women, aged 14 and over, and takes in the stunning sights of the vibrant city of Bath. There’s a lot of fun planned before the walk with a raffle competition to win a Mulberry handbag, free giveaways and fabulous merchandise available from 8.30pm. Butlers in the Buff will be making another appearance this year and there’ll be a fun warm-up session with music based on the ‘Saturday Night Diva’ theme of course. Yvonne Jamieson from Trowbridge who won the Mulberry handbag prize at the 2016 Bath Moonlight Walk said, “I did my first Moonlight Walk last year with my daughters in remembrance of my sister, Edwina Abrook,
“THIS YEAR’S THEME FOR THE BATH MOONLIGHT WALK IS ‘SATURDAY NIGHT DIVA’ AND AIMS TO BRING WOMEN TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE LIFE” who died in Summer 2016. We enjoyed the whole event. The atmosphere was great, the doughnuts were delicious (the Butlers in the Buff handing them out were pretty good too!) and the marshals were encouraging and cheerful. Finally, a huge thank you for the beautiful Mulberry bag, I shall treasure it always.” Standard registration costs £20 but there is an Early Bird offer of £15 available until 14th July, and all entrants receive an exclusive T-shirt before the event. Walkers are invited
to pledge a minimum of £40 sponsorship or make a donation in lieu of sponsorship. Why not accessorise your Bath Moonlight Walk “Saturday Night Diva” T-shirt with glittery disco gear or put together your own retro, disco outfit? For excellent upcycling and to help the Hospice fund vital patient care, look for your nearest Dorothy House charity shop at www.dorothyhouse.org.uk/shops/ to find a vintage bargain to wear.
If you think you’d like to join in the fun, find out more at www.bathmoonlightwalk.org.uk
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THE LACOCK PLANTER FINE CARPENTRY & STYLISH DESIGN www.thelacockplanter.co.uk T 01249 652139 M 07984 167 360
Suppliers of contemporary and traditional wood, solid fuel, gas and electric stoves, from leading manufacturers. We have over 100 on display, many working and in fire place settings. Also 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 only 4 miles from M4 junction 18, near Bath.
7-8 JULY
CHARITY 9AM - 5PM
open days
During our open days we will have complimentary refreshments, a raffle, an auction and donate 10% of all money taken to the charities below.
FREE ESTIMATES • FULL INSTALLATION AND CAD DESIGN SERVICE 1,400 SQ FT SHOWROOM WITH FULL DISPLAYS
Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 2AD
Castle Farm, Marshfield, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN14 8HU 01225 891469 www.knight-stoves.co.uk
Opening hours: Mon 12pm - 5pm Tues - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 3pm T: 01761 419114 E: enquiries@firenzaltd.co.uk www.firenzaltd.co.uk
L A N S D OW N G O L F C LU B MEMBERSHIP AND GREEN FEE DEALS AVAILABLE NOW! Wanting to hold your special event or wedding in Bath? Look no further than Lansdown Golf Club. We have the experience and versatility to ensure your day is a perfect one. 01225 425 007
info@lansdowngolfclub.co.uk
Lansdown, Bath, BA1 9BT
W W W . L A N S D OW N G O L F C LU B .C O . U K
BOOKS
ARTS
as he writes his sometimes funny, always nostalgic short essays about the emotive qualities of books and why we become so attached to them – the smells, the borrowing, the memories of plots and reading locations. This might be being published in the middle of summer, but make a note now as it’s going to prove the perfect stocking-filler for book obsessives come (say it quietly) Christmas.
THERE ARE MANY BOOKS THAT EXTOL THE VIRTUES OF GREAT RETAIL
COMMUNITY SPIRIT This week’s focus is on reads which highlight the joy of indie shop-keeping By N IC BO T T OM L E Y
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he Bath Life editor always informs me of this fine publication’s focus of the week, but often that information is uncannily synchronised with the moment that my internal guilt gauge is beginning to sky rocket because I haven’t yet given my article any thought. Even if I’m in urgent need of inspiration though, I often choose to turn a blind eye to the magazine’s spotlight which might be ‘bridal wear’ or ‘the property market’, say. No-one wants to read a column about the great estate agents in literature – that is some dark, dark reading matter and I refuse to be the one to bring it to you. This week, however, Bath Life’s principal theme cannot, and must not, be ignored. Independent retail – a subject to which I can warm without notice. There are many books that extol the virtues of great retail very directly and visually and can act as real inspiration for those thinking of setting up their own business. Take The Shopkeepers by Robert Klanten (Gestalten, £40) which offers up character studies of dozens of very different and inspiring retail businesses
thriving amidst our increasingly digital economy. Whether it’s a minimalist Berlin liquorice shop, a chi-chi lime-green Dutch reinvention of the laundromat, or a quaint treasure-trove button shop in New York, these incredible businesses are unified only by their knockout design, strong visual identities and seemingly endless supply of hipster sales assistants. There have been many great books over the years that celebrate my own favourite brand of indie shop-keeping. The most thought-provoking in recent years is Jorge Carrion’s Bookshops – a globetrotting and often very personal essay on the importance of the bookshop told through visits to legendary locations such as New York’s The Strand Bookstore and Shakespeare and Co. in Paris. (Quercus, £16.99). Even more hot off the press is Daniel Gray’s Scribbles in the Margins (Bloomsbury, £9.99) in which the joy of the browse and the sight of endless shelves (whether in store, library or carefully arranged by whatever method you choose in your own home) are just a couple of the many topics covered. Gray also moves far beyond the retail sphere
Neither of these recent efforts, though, can hold a candle to the cultural benchmark of independent bookshops; indeed of all independent retail. No, not Meg Ryan’s place in You’ve Got Mail, though you’re right, that is up there. I’m thinking of 84 Charing Cross Road (Little Brown, £7.99) or, more precisely, Messrs Marks & Co. at that address. In this classic piece of memoir, the author recounts a 20-year course of correspondence with antiquarian book-buyer Frank Doel who posts books out to Helen in New York. The book is told entirely in the transatlantic letters between the two of them as they wax lyrical about books sent, and to be sent, and the gifts that soon start flowing the other way. On one level it’s a touching story of a friendship between two people who have never met (and who wouldn’t have come across one another were it not for books) and on another it’s a homage to the power of any good shop to recommend the right book and to create community. But there’s a third angle to it as well. My colleague Ed believes 84 Charing Cross Road should be handed out in all retail establishments as required training for customer service. And he’s right. Any independent retailer who can emulate Frank Doel’s natural and entirely genuine approach – regarding each interaction as a chance to create a friendship rather than secure a customer – will be on the high street for a long time to come.
Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; 01225 331155; www.mrbsemporium.com
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R E S TA U R A N T
FOOD
The Dower House Bath is currently celebrating the Royal Crescent’s 250-year anniversary, and, as The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is at the heart of the magnificent, sweeping landmark, the chef has created a special menu at the restaurant, The Dower House, in honour of the milestone By L I SA E VA NS
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ith the aim of taking its guests on a gastronomic journey through the last two and a half centuries, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is marking the Royal Crescent’s 250 milestone anniversary year with a very
special foodie offering. We were lucky enough to be among the first to be invited to the five-star hotel’s three AA Rosette restaurant, The Dower House, to receive a private tasting of the carefully curated six-course RC250 Taittinger Tasting Menu which utilises ingredients that were relevant in the past and still hold authentic relevance today. Befitting of this milestone year, the menu, which celebrates the changing flavour concepts of bygone eras, has been expertly matched with wines and Champagnes selected by the hotel’s head sommelier, Jean-Marc Leitao, to offer a unique experience of culinary excellence and dishes that champion British cuisine. To create it, executive head chef David Campbell explored the dramatic changes in the sourcing and cooking techniques of food over the past 200 years, and he used his findings as the inspiration for the courses, reimagining them for the 21st century palette. The experience begins with a gentle and comforting cucumber consommé with Earl Grey tea-cured salmon (or cucumber for vegetarians), combined with lime, rapeseed and nasturtium leaf. Paired with a Taittinger Brut Reserve, the subtle flavours of the dish are carefully balanced with the wonderful acidity of the Champagne, toasting the anniversary in style. The art of modernising historic dishes is showcased in the ‘Bath Chaps’ course – a regional speciality which uses the meat from the lower half of the pigs’ cheeks – that the chef gives a present-day spin to. He retains the flavours associated with Bath Chaps, but uses 65-day dry-aged pork – including crispy cheek and smoked loin – and teams it
THIS IS THE
PERFECT CLOSING CURTAIN
TO A MENU THAT HAS
FEATURED JUST ONCE IN 250 YEARS
with English mustard, pickled shallots and garden herbs, finishing it in a contemporary style. I opt for the vegetarian version of the dish which combines Somerset goats’ curd with Old English tomatoes, garden marjoram and an onion seed crisp. Both dishes are complemented perfectly by the full-bodied, red berry sweetness of Taittinger Rosé. Up next is the Cornish mackerel tartare and ceviche with gentleman’s relish, English sorrel and a dusting of leek ash – a decorative addition which demonstrates the changing cooking techniques which have enabled chefs across the globe to transform ingredients into edible works of art – and perfectly captures the essence of British cooking. This – along with my vegetarian option of slow-cooked duck egg, garden peas, mushrooms, and shavings of English truffle – is paired with the Picpoul de Pinet which JeanMarc says is enjoying a huge resurgence of late. When the first foundation stone of John Wood the Younger’s world-famous Royal Crescent was laid on 19 May 1767, regularly consuming meat would have been a luxury of the rich, and prior to the invention of refrigeration, the meat would have been heavily salted for preservation. Chef Campbell wanted to use this technique of salting to create his baby-pink salt marsh lamb dish, which uses the seasoning to delicately balance the flavours of the garden pea and bacon accompaniments while retaining elements of the traditional method of preservation. It’s completed with mint sauce and lamb broth, the commanding flavours of which are further deepened by a glass of silky, spicy Rioja Crianza. The focus of the meat-free version of this dish, served with the same black fruit-aroma tipple, is singed, roasted cauliflower teamed with fat, soaked raisins, curried quinoa, golden-at-the-edges feta cheese and a sharp drizzle of lemon. To cleanse the palette, the gracefully deconstructed gooseberry and elderflower crumble represents a British favourite that has stood the test of time, with various versions of the classic crumble remaining a household favourite today. And the main dessert is Eve’s Pudding, with Somerset apples and salted caramel, which the chef has reinvented to create a dish with flavours reminiscent of the late 17th-century apple sponge but with a modern twist. Enjoyed with a glass of soft and mellow Taittinger Nocturne, this is the perfect closing curtain to a menu that has featured just once in 250 years.
DINING DETAILS The Dower House, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, 16 Royal Crescent, Bath, BA1 2LS; www.royalcrescent.co.uk Availability The RC250 Taittinger Tasting Menu is available until October 2017 Prices The tasting menu is £125 per person and includes six courses paired with wines Wine list The tasting menu has been expertly matched with wine and Taittinger Champagne selected by the hotel’s head sommelier Service/atmosphere Passionate and enthusiastic yet refined
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 75
Set in the picturesque Southern Cotswolds village of Sherston, The Rattlebone is a classic English country pub oozing character out of every nook and cranny. It even has a ghost, the 11th century Saxon warrior John Rattlebones. We have two gardens, three Boules pistes and a vibrant and fun atmosphere. We are also close to Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury and other Cotswolds attractions so are a great destination for days out. What we are really famous for is our fantastic locally sourced country bistro cuisine, our great food nights (spit roast lamb anyone?) and our second to none service. We would love to see you at the pub soon!
Current Food Promotions Mon–Fri Lunchtimes & 6-7pm: Prix Fixe Menu – Two Courses For £12
Monday – Gourmet Burgers Tuesdays – Fish & Chips Wednesdays – Steak Night – Two 8oz Rumps, Chips, Salad & Bottle of House Wine £29.95 Sundays – Hand Crafted Pizzas
À La Carte Menu Served Monday to Saturday 12-2.30pm & 6-9.30pm Starters
Mains
Homemade soup of the day (please see our specials boards for details) £5.75
Seared calves liver, parsnip mash, savoy cabbage & crispy bacon served with a black peppercorn sauce £13.50
Café de Paris bread £4.75
Pan fried fillet of sea bass served with a prawn & dill risotto topped with spinach & fresh parmesan £13.25
Beetroot & mozzarella arancini with parmesan crisps, a julienne of vegetables & beetroot essence (v) £6.75/ £12.75 Spicy potted octopus with chilli & garlic oil sherry vinegar, served w/ crusty bread £6.75 Herb crusted goat’s cheese balls with smoked tomato salsa & basil croutons (v) £6.75/£12.50 Ballontine of free range chicken leg with pistachio, spinach & sage £6.75 Grilled field mushrooms with garlic & parsley on toasted focaccia, served with a rocket & balsamic glaze (v) £6.50/£12.50 Sharing Platters For Two Mixed fish platter with tuna, smoked mackerel, prawns & smoked salmon & a selection of warm breads £14.50 Mixed charcuterie with mixed salamis, pancetta, parma ham with sunblush tomatoes, onion marmalade & warm breads £14.50 Baked camembert fondue studded with garlic & rosemary served with onion marmalade, chilli jam & warm breads £13.95 (v) A selection of breads, olives, olive oil & balsamic vinegar £5.95 (v) (We do offer a gluten free bread option)
The Rattlebone chicken Kiev with fries, rocket, confit of garlic & garlic butter £12.95 Slow braised acorn fed Iberico pork belly, roasted red peppers & chorizo, creamy mash, fine beans & pancetta (gf) £13.50 A rich ragu of local venison in red wine & thyme, tossed in pappardelle pasta, parsley & fresh parmesan £11.50 Goan fish curry (spicy coconut based curry) with fragrant rice & crusty chilli bread (gf) £12.95 Roasted vegetable orzo pasta with crispy Valencia almonds, dried apricots & feta cheese (v) £10.95 Beetroot & sweet potato salad served with sun blush tomatoes, red onion & herb salad (v) (gf) £10.95 The famous Rattlebone burger with skinny fries, crispy onion rings & relish £10.50 (Add bacon or cheese for 75p) Pie of the day (please see our specials boards), new potatoes & fresh vegetables £10.95 28 day aged Aberdeen Angus steaks with roasted tomatoes & field mushrooms & hand cut chips 10oz rump £19.50, 10oz sirloin £22.75 Optional sauces – Café de Paris butter, black pepper sauce or garlic butter £1.95
Sides
Hand cut chips or skinny fries £3.50, cheesy chips £4 Mixed vegetables £3, green salad £2.50, mushrooms £3
The Rattlebone Inn, Church Street, Sherston, Wiltshire, SN160lR 01666840871 www.therattlebone.co.uk eat@therattlebone.co.uk
One of the most welcoming and attentive stays in Bath Located just a 10 minute walk from the heart of the historic city of Bath and nestled in seven acres of landscaped gardens is the 18th Century Georgian building of the �ive-star luxury hotel, The Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel.
Our food is quite simply outstanding, awarded with two AA rosettes for excellent quality and Service in The Vellore Restaurant. From our award winning breakfast to delicious evening service, it’s an experience you wouldn’t want to miss.
Indulge yourself on a retreat from the stresses and strains of everyday life and sample one of the most sensuous and healing spas in Bath. We have a hidden haven of refreshing spa treatments, ready to wash away your tension in our state of the art spa. For details on Packages available please contact us on 01225 476828 or email sales.bathspa@macdonald-hotels.co.uk
M A C D O N A L D B AT H S PA H O T E L
Sydney Road, Bath BA2 6JF 01225 444 424 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk
ad v ertising feature D I N I N G
UNCOVER A HIDDEN GEM IN BATH Eagerly anticipated as the second of Jamie Oliver’s ground-breaking Italian restaurants when it opened in 2008, Jamie’s Italian Bath approaches its 10th birthday with optimism and a dynamic new team at the helm. Photographs by Ella Miller
A
recent refurbishment has given a new lease of life to Jamie’s Italian, especially on sunny days when one of the city’s best kept secrets – a suntrap roof terrace – offers the perfect spot for enjoying the new summer menu al fresco style. The new menu reflects Jamie Oliver’s long-standing commitment to impeccable sourcing and his passion for beautiful seasonal ingredients. The recipes are created with an eye on what’s fresh and healthy, but not forgetting the restaurant’s Italian heritage, inspired by Jamie’s mentor, Gennaro Contaldo, and pasta is freshly made on site, every day – using the Italian Godfather’s own recipe. A selection of hand-made sourdough pizzas was recently introduced to the menu after hundreds of requests from customers. By partnering with artisan producers in the UK and Italy, every pizza is topped with fantastic, lovingly sourced ingredients, including Westcombe Jacks cheese from Westcombe Dairy in Somerset and charcuterie from Cobble Lane Cured in London. The best quality at an affordable price makes these pizzas a highly competitive new addition to Bath’s established pizza scene. And if you’re a parent, you’ll love the hugely popular kids’ menu. It’s been created by Jamie to
look amazing and taste great and, most importantly, every dish on the kids’ menu packs a super-healthy punch. Check out Organic mini spaghetti & meatballs – served with secret-seven vegetable sauce that looks like a simple tomato sauce but is cram-packed full of goodness! Recent years have seen the number of restaurants in Bath explode and Jamie’s Italian has evolved to survive, and ultimately, to thrive. Led by new General Manager – and proud ambassador – Ashley Kirwan who’s grown with the company after starting as a bartender, there’s a lot going on to keep the restaurant firmly on the map as a must-visit dining destination. Tucked away in Milsom Place, Jamie’s Italian is still a hidden gem for some, but it’s accessible for all and you’ll be
“The restaurant continues to make its own pasta fresh, on site, every day” looked after by a friendly team who know – and love – their stuff. The restaurant takes bookings every day for lunch and dinner, as well as being open for passers by. Whether you’re grabbing a quick and healthy lunch, need a well-deserved midshop pit stop, fancy a glass of pre-theatre fizz or you’re planning a dinner or Sunday lunch for the family, Jamie’s Italian has something for everyone. Needless to say, Jamie’s Italian and Jamie’s Deli – it’s little sister next door – are well worth tracking down. Receive a complimentary bottle of wine when dining at Jamie’s Italian Bath – simply quote Bath Life when booking. Ts&Cs apply, please visit jamiesitalian.com/terms for more information.
Jamie’s Italian, Bath, 10 Milsom Place Bath BA1 1BZ; 01225 432 340
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FOOD AND DRINK
AL FRESCO
Bath is full of cafés, pubs and restaurants that let you take it outside, so here is our guide to 17 of the best al fresco suntraps in the city and beyond By L I SA E VA NS
I
The menu: “For breakfast, we have a range of viennoiserie including our famous almond croissant, and bacon and cheese croissant,” says Richard. “We also offer pasties, croque monsieur, and possibly the best sausage rolls you will ever try for lunch, plus cakes and pastries – including our butter salted caramel brownies – for when you just fancy something sweet.”
f you want your summertime dishes to be served with a healthy side of vitamin D, luckily, the local area is awash with al fresco dining spots – from a best-keptsecret terrace, to a peaceful space in the middle of flower fields – that will satisfy your cravings.
THE BERTINET BAKERY CAFÉ
What’s outside? Bath doesn’t get much more spectacular than when it’s dappled with the golden light of summer. Nor when there is the promise of outdoor breakfast, lunch and snacks at the café belonging to Richard Bertinet – the city’s bestknown baker (who, as it happens, freshly baked this feature’s headline, and the one on our front cover). “As it’s situated near the train and bus stations, the café’s as busy and bustling as you would expect, and it’s a great place to grab a bite to eat on your way through,” says French chef and baker Richard, who you’ll often spot in Bath, either at his café, bakery shops or cookery school in the city.
Did you know: “Until about six years ago, The Vaults [where the café is based] were buried underneath the car park,” says Richard. “They were built by Brunel originally and returned to their former splendour as part of the SouthGate development.”
Look out over swathes of purple at Somerset Lavender’s café – 20 minutes from Bath
The Castle Inn is an ideal place to enjoy a cool glass of white with friends
What’s new? The business has recently launched its sliced tin sourdough, both in its own shops and in Waitrose. The Vaults, 2 Brunel Square, Bath; www.bertinet.com
MILSOM PLACE
Why step outside? An all-summer-long al fresco fiesta has begun at Milsom Place where you will discover a distinctly continental vibe. Bask in the sunshine and enjoy fabulous food right in the heart of the city. The feast of flavours includes French specialities at Côte Brasserie, a cosmopolitan taste and atmosphere at CAU – direct from Buenos Aires – and Italian delights at Carluccio’s and Jamie’s Italian. The terrace at Jamie’s is a well-kept secret providing a show-stopping view of the city. From Jamie’s, we’re ordering: Primavera ravioli – buffalo ricotta and black pepper pasta parcels in a lemon butter sauce – or Jamie’s Octopus Ravioli which comes complete with octopus and squid ink pasta parcels in a rich shellfish and tomato sauce, topped with handpicked Cornish crab. 1-2 Milsom Street, Bath; www.milsom.place.co.uk
82 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
The Wheelwrights Arms
Why go outside? With a spectacular view over the valley, the Michelin Guide-listed Wheelwrights Arms is surrounded by picturesque hills on the edge of Bath. “We are in the country and it’s very peaceful here,” says owner David Munn. “The garden has 80 covers and the European-style menu, which changes every two weeks, is prepared by our head chef Darren Sharp who has worked in gastropubs and small hotels.” Why go inside? “The Wheelwrights began as a ‘Wheelwrights’ in 1750 and became a pub in 1860,” says David. “Since then, it has added rooms and was completely upgraded in 2006 to what it is today – a four-star country inn with luxury bedrooms.” We’re ordering: The potted crab with fennel and apple salad; Wiltshire pork chops with butterbeans; and the whisky and Coke sticky toffee pudding. Don’t miss: The jazz and ‘Bar B Q’ evenings in August featuring Dr Zebo’s Wheezy Club. Church Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath; www.wheelwrightsarms.co.uk
Take in the stunning views over the valley at the Michelin Guide-listed Wheelwrights Arms
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AL FRESCO
TIMBRELL’S YARD
In the sunshine: In the courtyard of Timbrell’s Yard, diners can look out over the River Avon and the medieval arched bridge while admiring theHoly Trinity Church and the buildings of Bradford on Avon. “Timbrell’s mixes traditional features with contemporary design and vintage finds,” says general manager Henry Gray. “This combination is reflected in the courtyard with its country flooring, galvanised planters and mellow fencing. You’ll often find pop-up bars and live DJs on warm evenings and bank holiday weekends.” The food: “The kitchen is overseen by Tom Blake, former executive chef at River Cottage,” says Henry. “Think innovative, fresh, seasonal produce showcasing the very best that the West Country has to offer.” The history: “It was once an 18th-century dye factory,” says Henry. “The Grade-II listed building was the family home to the owner, Charles Timbrell, and a copy of an early 19th-century painting, showing the yard as it was then, hangs in the restaurant.”
THE CLIFTON SAUSAGE
BATH
DOESN’T GET MUCH
MORE
SPECTACULAR THAN WHEN IT’S
DAPPLED WITH THE GOLDEN LIGHT OF
SUMMER
What makes the outdoor area special? Overlooking the paragon, the pavement bistro area at the front of the restaurant makes for the perfect people-watching spot, and, at the back, you’ll find a terrace which boasts some of the best views of Bath and the surrounding countryside. “The terrace has a peaceful vibe, with wisteria tumbling over the fencing,” says sales and marketing manager Lauren Clarke. “The views are incredible – and can also be enjoyed from the upstairs glass conservatory – and special touches include a herb garden, blankets for when it’s cold, and parasols for shade.” The menu: Of course, the appellation already gives this away, but in addition to sausages, you’ll find classic British cooking, which is overseen by head chef and owner Simon Quarrie. As for the drinks, there’s a two-for-one cocktail offering here every day until 7pm, along with a broad list of beers, ciders and ale. We’re ordering: The ‘Ben Tapuai’ fundraising dish. The Clifton Sausage are shirt sponsors of Bath Rugby’s Ben Tapuai, and £1 from each sale goes to the Bath Rugby Foundation.
Don’t miss: “Our big gathering on 27 August,” says Henry. “There’ll be food stalls, cocktails, Balearic beats, smoked meats and vegan treats.”
Don’t miss: The Casa Rojo wine-tasting dinner on 14 July, or the bottomless brunch on the first Saturday of every month.
49 St.Margaret’s Street, Bradford on Avon; www.timbrellsyard.com
5 Bladud Buildings, The Paragon, Bath; www.cliftonsausage.co.uk
Indulge in an open-air meal at Timbrell’s Yard where Tom Blake, formerly of River Cottage, is head chef
84 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
AL FRESCO
FOOD AND DRINK
The background: “The Empire was designed by the famous Bath architect Major Charles Edward Davis, and was originally used as a hotel before being acquired by the Royal Naval Command during World War II,” explains Ed. “Since then, it has been redeveloped into luxury accommodation and independent eateries.” The Empire, Grand Parade, Bath; www.framptonsbar.co.uk
THE GARRICK’S HEAD
Eating outside: “Our terrace is great for early afternoon sun and late afternoon shade,” says owner proprietor Amanda Digney. “The vibe is relaxed and busy and it’s an ideal spot to sit and watch theatre-goers and cast coming and going. And the restaurant’s floral displays bring a little oasis of colour to the heart of the city.” The dishes: The bar menu offers pub classics, and the à la carte choice is modern in style. “Our head chef, Simon Mealing, keeps his dishes uncluttered and presents each plate with abundant flair,” says Amanda. “We also have one of the largest collections of single malt whiskies in the city, with over 50 to choose from. “We take being a public house very seriously and apply the same attention to detail to the bar as to the food.” Vertiginous views from the terrace at Clifton Sausage, Bath
The background: “Garrick was a great friend of Beau Nash who lived in the building that is now The Garrick’s Head,” says Amanda. “Perhaps Beau w
ABBEY HOTEL
Why go outside? Every year, between April and September, the team at the Abbey Hotel transforms part of Bath’s North Parade into an outdoor terrace complete with Mediterranean olive trees, vibrant wildflowers, comfy armchairs, heat lamps and flickering candles, all set against the backdrop of buttery Georgian stone. What’s new? Terrace Takeovers offer the opportunity to meet the visionaries behind some of the UK’s best independent drinks companies including Lyme Bay Winery and Chase Distillery, with tasting sessions and food-pairing evenings. North Parade, Bath; www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk
FRAMPTONS CAFÉ BAR & KITCHEN
What views can diners expect? “The restaurant is in such an iconic building – The Empire on the Grand Parade – which is situated next to the Old East Gate and Pulteney Bridge, overlooking the weir and the Bath Rugby ground,” says co-owner Ed McAdam. The food: The modern British menu, created by head chef Nora Joo-Kovacs, has an emphasis on ingredients sourced from local, artisan suppliers. “The most unique element of our drinks offer is our Krušovice Czech tank beer,” says Ed. “This pilsner-style lager is the premium royal beer of the Czech Republic dating back to 1581.”
Choose from the modern al fresco menu at Framptons Café Bar & Kitchen while you overlook the weir
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Nash and David Garrick shared a good story of gambling shenanigans over a glass of fine wine while watching Georgian society pass by from the area that is now the Garrick’s Head terrace?” Don’t miss: The Strawberries and Pimm’s on the Terrace event which runs throughout the Wimbledon fortnight; and the Festival Fun event in August. 7-8 St John’s Place, Bath; www.garricksheadpub.com
THE GREEN BIRD CAFE
What’s outside? The cafe has two outside spaces to sit and relax in, as co-owner Claire Hunton explains, “Guests can sit at the front on the pedestrianised Margaret’s Buildings and people-watch in pretty, peaceful surroundings. And, to the rear, there is an enclosed courtyard in which you’ll find part of the exterior wall of St Margaret’s Chapel which was bombed during the Bath Blitz. The menu: Think salads, tarts, soups and open sandwiches alongside seasonal specials such as asparagus on toasted Bertinet sourdough with poached egg and parmesan shavings. The co-owner Henry Hunton has previously worked with Michael Caines at Gidleigh Park, and Rick Stein’s restaurant in Padstow.
Above: Expect a colour explosion at The Garrick’s Head; below: The Green Bird Cafe offers a quaint courtyard to relax in
To drink: “For a cafe, we have a great wine list,” says Claire. “We have recently increased our retail range meaning you can pick up a bottle on your way home or drink in the cafe.” We’re treating ourselves to: The Jude’s Ice Cream range, especially the Brown Butter Pecan, and the Gin & Tonic options. What’s new? In June, the cafe will host pop-up nights with Bath chef Tony Casey. With interest from many other chefs, keep your eyes peeled for more of these in future months. 11 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.greenbirdcafe.co.uk
SOMERSET LAVENDER
Why go outside? Discover the wonders of lavender and enjoy the sight of the fields in full bloom. Wander through the five acres of lavender fields and absorb the sight of more than 50,000 butterfly-attracting plants before relaxing in the café’s lawned outdoor area. “We’re only nine miles from Bath,” says Somerset Lavender farmer Judith Green. “Wander around the beautiful fields and then sit for a while in the café to take in yet more stunning views of lavender fields.” The menu: “Our food is home-grown – see the salad in the flower and vegetable garden, and taste it in the café,” says Judith. We’re ordering: The goats’ cheese and lavender quiche, and the lavender shortbread. Horsepond Farm, Faulkland, Somerset; www.somersetlavender.co.uk 86 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
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FOOD AND DRINK
AL FRESCO
THE GREENHOUSE RESTAURANT
Why go al fresco? “There’s plenty of outdoor space,” says restaurant manager Georgina Bradbury. “Our sunny pavilion terrace offers seating to the front, back and along the side of the restaurant; with a relaxed vibe it’s ideal for dining al fresco at any time of the day. The terrace is a total suntrap, but for those times when it’s a little chilly we have blankets and heat lamps ready.” We’re ordering: Dishes such as chorizo and morcilla, deep-fried calamari, and spicy lamb meatballs from the Tapas on the Terrace menu. And we’d maybe indulge in their 2-4-1 cocktail deal, which runs every Friday evening. The background: “The Greenhouse is located at the site of the former HMS Royal Arthur Naval College where The Duke of Edinburgh was once a student,” says Georgina. “It’s now been transformed into a vibrant lifestyle village.”
THE CASTLE INN
THE
TERRACE
HAS A PEACEFUL VIBE, WITH
WISTERIA
TUMBLING OVER THE
FENCING
Don’t miss: The strawberries, cream and Pimm’s offer during Wimbledon in July. Wadswick Green, Corsham, www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk
Why go al fresco? Outside the beautiful Georgian building in which The Castle Inn lies, there’s a large flagstone terrace and lawn, perfect for picnic blankets and for the kids to play on. “The terrace has enough seating for 50 guests with wooden tables, canvas umbrellas, plant pots and fairy lights,” says operations manager Tori Hill. “It’s the ideal place to enjoy a glass of rosé.” We’re ordering: Eggs benedict for brunch, moules marinière for lunch, and honey-glazed Wiltshire ham, duck eggs, triple-cooked chips and piccalilli for dinner. Mount Pleasant, Bradford on Avon, www.flatcappers.co.uk
THE PEAR TREE
What’s outside? “Our wisteria-covered front garden is fabulous for summer evenings,” says general manager and director Jackie Cosens. “We have four cottage-style areas plus picnic blankets and deck chairs. Our Pear Tree Orchard, which our restaurant overlooks, has a patio area as well as an espalier pear tree hedge border, and the rear garden has a large lawn and vegetable garden – which you’ll see the chefs popping out to – and a greenhouse. You also have views across the fields.” The food: The head chef, Adrian Jenkins, who is also joint director of The Pear Tree, has 25 years’ experience working in local kitchens and pubs – from Three Daggers to Hall & Woodhouse – and whips up what Jackie describes as modern, imaginative dishes. The background: The outside rooms were converted from a cattle shed and the original building is 17th-century. After closing for a few years, The Pear Tree opened with a new look 18 months ago. Don’t miss: Comedy night on 6 July. Top Lane, Whitley; www.peartreewhitley.co.uk
THE SAN FRANCISCO FUDGE FACTORY
Why go outside? With an array of tables outside her shop on Church Street, owner Maureen explains, “You can enjoy a wonderful view of the Bath Abbey while you are sipping on some champagne that we sell by the glass, or nibbling on our handmade fudge – which makes us unique in Bath.”
Nautical, beachy accents await at The Pear Tree in Whitley
88 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Why go inside? Walls of sweet treats await you inside the shop – which dates back to the 17th-century – and you can also spot the makers in action. “We cook something handmade every day,” says Maureen. “You can watch our fudge, peanut brittle or caramel apples being made on the premises. We also serve hot and cold drinks and handmade milkshakes made from Marshfield Ice Cream.” 6 Church Street, Abbey Green, Bath; www.sanfranciscofudge.co.uk
Fabulous Al Fresco dining in a beautiful setting Plenty of garden seating for al fresco dining and drinks with friends or family in our large family garden with patio and our new “Tranquility Gardens” looking over to Downside Abbey. We are in a position which gives us spectacular sunsets most evenings in summer months especially.
A 17th Century Somerset Country Retreat Luxury 5 Star accommodation | Restaurant listed by Michelin | Extensive Gardens & Grounds Steeped in history, in the village of Holcombe, is our 10 bedroom 5* Country Inn Hotel, Award winning Restaurant and Tranquility gardens. Perfect for a hideaway south of Bath and ideally situated to explore Somerset’s finest landmarks including Wells, Cheddar Gorge, Wookey Hole, Longleat, Bath and Bristol.
Our menus change regularly, we use homegrown produce from our kitchen garden and locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. Pretty much everything is made in-house - Breads, Pasta, Ice cream, smoked & cured meats & fish. We are pleased to offer flavoursome vegetarian dishes and Vegan options are available by arrangement.
Visit us: The Holcombe Inn Stratton Road Holcombe Somerset BA3 5EB | Call: 01761 232478 Email: bookings@holcombeinn.co.uk | Online: www.holcombeinn.co.uk
Piattino means “small plate” in Italian. where we truly believe in the perfect combination between food, wine and music. All run by our independent family and a great team.
Piattino! Sounds good! Available for private events. • 7 Edgar Buildings • George Street • • Bath • BA1 2EE • • 01225 443900 •
www.piattinobath.com
café · bar · restaurant
For Parties & Receptions
B
onghy Bo offers a wedding reception venue with a difference. Situated in the hidden courtyard garden of Upper Borough Walls, this cafe and restaurant makes an ideal venue for private functions set in a secluded place in the heart of Bath. Bonghy Bo can comfortably accommodate 50 to 100 guests with either a small band or a DJ for entertainment. The flexible buffet menu can be changed to meet your specific tastes and budget and can be accompanied by Prosecco, Champagne or a selection of wines. Even if you have already booked your special day, Bonghy Bo makes an inspired choice for Hen parties. Drop in for a chat and ask to view the photos in order to see the success of past events! To organise a memorable special occasion, please ask for Katharine, who will be happy to discuss all of your requirements. Opening hours: Mon 9.30am-6.30pm Tues-Sat 9.30am-9.30pm 2-3 Barton Court (behind Anthropologie & White Stuff), Upper Borough Walls, Bath, BA1 1RZ
T. 01225 462276 www.bonghy-bo.co.uk
Sun 10.30am-6.30pm
Late licence for private parties
Top Lane, Whitley, Wiltshire SN12 8QX 01225 704966 T f @peartreewhitley
www.peartreewhitley.co.uk
WINE
FOOD & DRINK
THE SIGHT OF PINK WINE IMMEDIATELY CONJURES UP THE THOUGHT OF HOLIDAYS
ANGELA MOUNT Wine exper t
ROSÉ-TINTED GLASSES Chilled pretty pink wine is a summer staple according to Angela Mount. Here are a few of her favourite suggestions…
T
here are things in life that evoke a strong sense of place and season, and, for summer, near the top of the list must be the salty, ozone-fresh tang of the sea, the soothing sound of waves lapping a sun-drenched beach, the incessant chirping of crickets on a warm Mediterranean evening, the exhilarating, cooling splash of a clean dive into a glitteringly azure pool – the list goes on. We’ll ignore the smell of diesel and hot tarmac on the M5 to Cornwall for the purposes of this piece. Memories, perceptions, associations – all buried for eternity in our brains and senses. And for me, the sight of a chilled glass of tremulously pale pink wine, with tiny beads of condensation shimmering down the sides – and of course the aroma and taste, as you take that first, welcome sip – immediately conjures up the thought of holidays and downtime. Is the scene now set in your mind? Regardless of where you’re reading this, and even if our lovely city is downcast beneath leaden skies, in a familiar deluge of rain, let me transport you to sunshine and relaxation for just a few minutes, and encourage you pick up a few bottles of wine, of the pink variety, to enjoy this evening, whatever our maverick weather pattern may throw at us. We wine writers harp on about how rosé isn’t just for Summer, and I’m one of them (I happen to think that rosé is about as good as it gets with Middle Eastern food, and also a great deal of Asian food, all year round) – but, you can’t get away from the fact, that it always seems to taste just that bit better in the sunshine. Enough of mindfulness exercises, now that I’ve hopefully transported you to a happy place, here’s what will be chilling in my fridge, of the pink vinous variety, this summer…. Whilst there are some fabulous rosé wines from the New World, I’m sticking to a European theme this month. Firstly, let’s talk about the contentious subject of which shade of pink. Rosé wine has been done no favours by the presence of lurid, neon-pink
hued, cloyingly sweet wines from big brands, which dominate supermarket shelves – and therefore the perception is that, the deeper the colour, the sweeter the wine. That’s not strictly true, as the colour is all down to how long the winemaker leaves the grape juice on the grape skins to soak up the colour. But the style ‘du jour’ is definitely pale, driven primarily, by the recent phenomenal success of ‘Riviera Rosé’, more properly known as Cotes de Provence. Last year, in the UK, we drank over 12 million cases of pretty pink wines, with Provence Rosé at the top of the pile.
Chateau Gassier ‘Le Pas du Moine’ Cotes de Provence 2016 (GWW £13.95), is the wine that transports me back to the lavender fields, sleepy villages, and chic beach restaurants of Provence, although Great Western Wine have an enviably wide selection of other options also. With its ethereal pale peach colour, and entrancingly gentle flavours of wild strawberries, pomegranates, and wild Provencal herbs, this award-winning wine from a family-run estate, pretty much sums up summer in a bottle; and even more so in an impressive magnum (big bottle) for £29.50, which can’t fail to impress guests and imbue the feel-good factor. Simply add tuna niçoise, and you have the Riviera on your doorstep. Staying with the ethereally pale, onion-skin
theme, one of my long-standing favourites is a delicately- scented pink from Sicily, Planeta Rosé 2016 (GWW £10.95), from the island’s leading wine producer. Gossamer-pale in hue, with a pretty floral label, it epitomises the perfect summer aperitif. The colour and lightness of this wine belies its origin and proves that, with care, the hot, southern Mediterranean isn’t all about rich, voluptuous reds. Fresh, fragrant, with pink grapefruit, lemon peel, and gentle red berry flavours, chill it right down and enjoy with a platter of antipasti, or the freshest of seafood. It’s my go-to picnic pink. Moving on to Spain, I recently discovered the deliciously fruity Sierxra Cantabria Rioja Rosado 2016 (GWW £10.95). Bone dry, and seductively perfumed, it has a similarly pale colour, but a bit more oomph and weight than many. I recently had the enviable task of matching wines to the delicately spiced and fragrant dishes created by local Iranian cookery school teacher Simi Rezzai-Ghassemi, and this emerged the star. The bright, raspberry and wild herb-stashed, super-fresh style makes it a brilliant food wine with juicy prawns, grilled salmon, middle-eastern dishes, and tapas. And finally, to prove my point about colour, a dry rosé with a much bolder pink colour, and an equally bold, funky, graffiti-inspired label. The appropriately named Mas Amor Rosado 2016 (GWW £10.95) (meaning more love), is bright and breezy, packed to the brim with succulent raspberry and all manner of red berry fruits. Bursting with character, this one’s the pink of choice for barbecues, chargrilled prawns and piri-piri chicken. And there you have it - your summer rosé collection has arrived. Enjoy. Angela Mount is a Bath-based wine writer, presenter and international judge who had her taste buds insured for £10 million during her tenure as one of the country’s leading supermarket wine buyers. She works with wine producers, chefs and distributors, including local wine merchant Great Western Wine. Wells Road, Bath; www.greatwesternwine.co.uk
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 93
A cut above...
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We take pride in serving great quality, honest food you want to eat
Silver Street, Bradford on Avon 01225 863111 | info@fatfowl.com
www.fatfowl.com
Quality food • Great location • Free delivery
Join us for our Tour of India menu Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EB Tel: 01225 446656 12-16 Clifton Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1AF Tel: 01173 291300 Email: info@themintroom.co.uk www.themintroom.co.uk
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Fortune Inn
Chinese Restaurant & Traditional Pub
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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
115 Sheldon Road, Chippenham, SN14 ODA 01249 661382 | www.fortuneinn.co
a d ve r tisi n g featu r e f o o d
Cocktails with a crunch Raise a glass to adventurous snacking: Burts Chips lead the way in the savoury crisp cocktail trend.
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risps and a pint is a tried and tested snacking occasion in the UK, but Burts Chips are encouraging Brits to think outside the crisp packet and enhance their snacking with the latest trend: savoury crisp cocktails. The artisan hand-cooked crisp company has created six ‘Burtender’ crisp cocktail recipes which are available on its website and across social media for fans to try out. You’ll never look at a humble packet of crisps in the same way again. Experts in adventurous snacking, Burts Chips know that a good cocktail is the same as a good snack – it has to have the right balance of ingredients and textures to be satisfying. Burts have teamed up with an expert mixologist who has selectively combined great cocktail ingredients with Burts’ distinct hand-cooked crisp flavours to ensure each cocktail carries its signature big bold taste. There is a drink for all palates and preferences – from the joining of two classics with Burts’ Vintage Cheddar & Spring Onion martini, to a margarita sprinkled with Burts’ Sea Salt & Crushed Peppercorns crisps atop a sea salt foam, and Burts’ Smoked Crispy Bacon Manhattan. For the first time, the crisps aren’t just the wingman to your favourite drink; these adventurous cocktails put crisps centre stage, where they belong! Take a sip of this new cocktail trend by making one of the Burtender crisp cocktails yourself…
Crisp lovers should visit burtschips. com for the full recipes and for more information on where to buy Burts Chips nationwide
Vintage Cheddar & Spring Onion
The Burtini
50ml gin 10ml dry vermouth 3 - 4 slices of spring onion muddled Method: Shake and double strain into a chilled martini glass Serve with cube of mature cheddar on a stick Enjoy with Burts Chips’ Vintage Cheddar & Spring Onion crisps Tasting notes: Initial aroma of spring onion, clean and wet on the palate, gin wash, then rising bite of spring onion and vermouth. Strong onion aftertaste, dependent on level of spring onion in drink. If you’re feeling a little indulgent, serve with blanched almonds fried in melted butter, or Hollandaise sauce.
Devon Roast Beef
Burts Smoky Mary
50ml smoked potato vodka 200ml spiced tomato juice 1/2 bar spoon grated horseradish Method: Shake and strain into ice-filled long glass and garnish with celery stick and a Burts Chips’ Devon Roast Beef crisp Tasting notes: Rich spiced tomato nose, pleasant heat on lips, then intense smoke warmth, zesty bitterness and heat towards the end of the mouth. Tomato lingers.
Smoked Crispy Bacon
Burts Bacon Manhattan
50ml four-day bacon infused bourbon 10ml sweet vermouth 5ml dry vermouth 2 dash angostura bitter 5ml cherry syrup from jar Method: Stir until ice-cold, strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with cherry on a stick and Burts Chips’ Smoked Crispy Bacon crisp on rim of glass Tasting notes: Strong bacon aroma, mellowed with the sweetness of the vermouth and strong flavours of bourbon. Cherry sweetness comes through on the finish.
Sea Salt & Crushed Peppercorns
Burts Peppered Margarita
50ml tequila 15ml agave nectar 25ml fresh lime juice Method: Shake, strain into rocks glass Top with sea salt foam and sprinkle with crumbled Burts Chips’ Sea Salt & Crushed Peppercorns crisps Tasting notes: Sweet and light salt foam, acidic and bitter, meets a sweet challenge from the agave nectar and strong tequila. The salt battles with the margarita, leaving a well-balanced finish. Moreish.
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 97
Come and meet these two crab smashers 1 liliput Court, Bath, BA1 1ND • hideoutbath.co.uk • info@hideoutbath.co.uk
Breakfast • Lunch • Coffee • Cake • Wine 11 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath, BA1 2LP 01225 487846 • www.greenbirdcafe.co.uk
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 restaurant definitely has that American vibe
Ben Abercrombie has just joined the Apex hotel team
APEX HOTEL APPOINTS CHEF Bath’s newest hotel is starting to take on a flavour of its own with the appointment of a new head chef. Award-winner Ben Abercrombie, aged 26, has recently joined the team at the Apex City of Bath Hotel and is confident that his creative approach will win over the city’s discerning clientele. South Somerset-born Ben began his career as a chef de parti at The Seahorse Restaurant in Dartmouth working with acclaimed chef Mitch Tonks before moving to work with Mark Hix at HIX in Soho as a sous chef. Ben then took on the role of executive head chef at The Queen’s Arms in Corton Denham, Somerset, where he gained and retained 2 AA rosettes along with numerous other awards. General manager Tim O’Sullivan said he was delighted to welcome Ben on board as another member of the senior team, “Ben is a young and exciting talent, whose passion and energy for delivering freshly prepared high quality food, fits perfectly with what we want to deliver at Apex City of Bath. I’m really excited to have Ben on the team and I’m looking forward to sharing his food with our guests and the local people of Bath.” The 177-room Apex City of Bath Hotel is due to open this August and will be the largest hotel in the city. For more: www.apexhotels.co.uk
A SMASH HIT Smashburger, one of the fastest growing restaurant concepts in the US, has recently opened in Bath city centre. It’s the fourth UK restaurant from the chain, and claims to stand out from the other burger joints thanks to their ‘smash’ method of cooking, whereby 100 per cent British Red Tractor Assured beef is hand-formed into a meatball and then smashed onto a hot, buttered grill, sealing in all the juices and flavour. Other tasty options include chicken breast sandwiches and an avocado and garlic grilled portobello cup vegetarian burger as well as freshly prepared salads and irresistible sides like the garlic
and rosemary Smash fries, that can be enjoyed by dining in or taking away. A wide range of drink options are available including a Coca Cola Freestyle touch-screen soda fountain containing over 100 different fizzy combinations from brands including Coca Cola, Fanta, Dr. Pepper, Sprite and Powerade. Craft beers, wines and creamy, handspun shakes made with HäagenDazs ice cream will also be available. The restaurant will be open seven days a week, bringing a slice of New York’s trendy meatpacking district to the streets of Bath. For more: www.smashburger.co.uk
The Castle Inn a beautiful family pub at the top of the hill, overlooking Bradford on Avon. Recently refurbished, to celebrate our 10th birthday, we have two relaxing dining areas and bar, a large garden with plenty of seating and four luxury guest rooms. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, great wine, local ales and ciders. Open all day, children and dogs welcome.
www.flatcappers.co.uk The Castle Inn, Mount Pleasant, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1SJ 01225 865 657 • thecastle@flatcappers.co.uk
LIGHT LUNCH menu throughout the summer MONTHLY taster menus FOR INFO ON OUR LATEST EVENTS, SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST
When you find out that Bath's indie restaurants just got cheaper...
LIVE JAZZ on the first and third Tuesday of the month
www.citymunch.ch
Sebastien’s Bistro 2 Bridge Yard, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1EJ Tel: 01225 938284 info@sebastiens.co.uk www.sebastiens.co.uk
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FESTIVAL FEVER
WITH SUMMER COMES THE SEASON FOR FESTIVALS, OUTDOOR EVENTS AND ALL THINGS FUN AND FLAMBOYANT – NOT LEAST THE BATH CARNIVAL ON 15 JULY. INSPIRED BY THE VIBRANT PROCESSION, WE’VE SEARCHED THROUGH BATH’S SHOPS FOR COLOURFUL ITEMS WHICH WILL INJECT A SPOT OF LIVELINESS INTO YOUR WARDROBE AND HOME
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1. BY THE SEASIDE
2. CONTAIN YOUR
3. SERVICE PLEASE
4. BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL
5. MEN IN BLUE
Starfish cushion cover, £45 Bath-based designer Helen Baker has launched her debut collection of outdoorinspired designs which have been made in the UK using eco-friendly pigments and natural fabrics From Helen Baker; www.helenbaker.com
EXCITEMENT
Jardiniere melamine platter, £26 Possessing panache for floral compositions like the blooms gracing this vibrant platter, artist Lulie Wallace’s daring colour combinations set apart each of her dinnerware pieces From Anthropologie, 1-4 New Bond Street, Bath; www.anthropologie.com
‘Jude’ shoe, £135 This season’s flatform brogue has a touch of the espadrille, with a layer of natural rope on the sole. Stand out from the crowd with a pair in this stunning Italian leather From Seven Boot Lane, 23 Milsom Place, Bath; www.sevenbootlane.com
Floral T-shirt, £70 Guys, make a statement with this stylish crew neck J Lindeberg top with its all-over lookat-me printed design From John Anthony, 26-28 High Street, Bath; www.john-anthony.com
Illustrated jars, from £15 These detailed, handdecorated jars, created by Bath artist Sarah Hawkins, feature depictions of striking cities such as Bath, Milan and Paris From Hawkins Illustrator, available on Esty and from www.sarahhawkins.co.uk
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SHOPPING
ED’S CHOICE
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6. SHAKE YOUR TAIL FEATHER
7. HANG LOOSE
8.HEART TO HEART
9. CREATIVI-TEA
10. UNDER COVER
Klevering clip-on bird, £8 for three Whether they perch on curtains, lampshades or houseplants, dot these tropical birds around the home to jazz up and enliven forgotten corners From Grace & Mabel, 7 Broad Street, Bath; www. graceandmabel.co.uk
Peach tassel necklace, £29.95 Brighten up any outfit in an understated way with this unusual, beaded necklace – available in eight different punchy colours From Franchetti Bond, 5 Upper Borough Walls, Bath; www.franchettibond.co.uk
‘1204’ watermelon sunglasses, £330 This playful, heartshaped pair of Italianmade sunnies feature an oversized design and give off a retro vibe From Cutler and Gross, 9 Bridge street, Bath; www.cutlerandgross.com
Florya mugs, £38 for a set of four These charming, handdecorated mugs – which are ideally sized for an after-dinner cup of coffee – will make a very fitting end to your dinner party feast From OKA, 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath; www.oka.com
Pierre Frey fabrics, from £108 per metre These tutti frutti fabrics will bring a touch of eccentricity and a dash of vitality into the home From Woodhouse & Law, 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath; www.woodhouseandlaw. co.uk
www.mediaclash.co.ukI CLIFTON I BATH LIFE www.mediaclash.co.uk LIFE I I 103 69
Winner of Best Hair Salon and Best Day Spa in Somerset 2016
The NEW CACI Synergy is coming to Frontlinestyle in Bath and Wells! The new CACI Synergy system combines the functionality of the two best-selling systems, the CACI Ultra and the CACI Ultimate and introduces pioneering S.P.E.D microcurrent therapy. The dual action of simultaneous LED and microcurrent energy stimulates tissue regeneration and helps the production of collagen providing faster, more visible and longer lasting anti ageing results.
Book your FREE consultation online www.frontlinestyle.co.uk. 4/5 Monmouth Street, Bath, BA12AJ T 01225 478478 E bath@frontlinestyle.co.uk 11 Broad Street, Wells, BA5 2DJ T 01749 672225 E wells@frontlinestyle.co.uk
TESTING, TESTING
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LET IT GLOW Summer is officially here, so if you fancy a beauty refresh for the new season, here are five local salons, along with top tips from their owners, to try out.. 1. LittleLAB With a focus on airbrush makeup, makeup workshops and nail treatments, the modern-look LittleLAB salon has what the director, Katherine Spreadbury, describes as a very different offering to your standard salon, “It’s about express, highquality beauty – just nails, makeup and eyebrows. Everybody at LittleLAB is a makeup artist, and Loretta Balfour – the former head of Estée Lauder was a mentor here.” Katherine’s beauty essential is natural lash extensions as, with these applied, she can complete her makeup look in just three minutes. Top trend: “Gone are chrome nails, and the latest craze seems to be coloured French in multiple colours.
2. Green Street House One product to add to your at-home pampering collection this summer is a facial oil. According to the owner of Green Street House, Betsi Hughes, oils will hydrate, plump and nourish skin. And Betsi’s favourite in-salon facial treatment is the Biotec Firm-a-Lift facial – a blend of massage and galvanic technology for a contoured complexion. Her salon specialises in treatments for both face and body, but you’ll also find a large, apothecary-style retail shop there. which not only sells lotions and potions from brands such as Elemis and Ren, but also a range of robes, slippers, scarves and jewellery. What’s new? SVS (Speed, Volume, Style) eyelash extensions.
20 Broad Street, Bath; www.littlelab.co.uk
14 Green Street, Bath; www.greenstreethouse.co.uk
3. Frontlinestyle When it comes to hair at this multi award-winning salon and day spa, they offer advice about scalp disorders, and are specialists in wigs, with a private room. And, as for beauty, Frontlinestyle’s managing director Frances Urwin recommends the CACI Synergy facial – a non-surgical toning technique – and Intense Pulsed Light which provides permanent hair reduction. What else? You’ll earn spa points when you buy Clarins products here.
4. Beyond Beauty From a wide treatment menu, Ellie Redwood, Beyond Beauty’s owner, says nail treatments are particularly popular at the salon. “We have found that chrome, glitter and nail art are definitely the most wanted and trending nail fashion at the moment,” she says. Beyond Beauty have also recently opened a new beauty room in Larkhall offering a vast range of beauty treatments. What’s new? Ellie has recently qualified as a beautician teacher.
4/5 Monmouth Street, Bath; www.frontlinestyle.co.uk
Chelsea Road, Bath; www.beyondbeautybath.com
5. The Orangery Laser & Beauty Clinic Specialising in clinical and medical treatments, some of the most popular options here include cryotherapy and injectables. A personal favourite of Lynnsay Jane Dulley, the clinic’s manager, is the Guinot Hydradermie signature treatment, “It deep cleanses, rehydrates and regenerates the complexion.” What’s the aim? “To stay ahead of new developments in the beauty industry.”
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Kingsmead Street, Bath; www.theorangery laserandbeautybath.co.uk
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New beauty room NOW OPEN at Naughty but Nice Hair Salon, Larkhall
£5 OFF ANY TREATMENT
Choose from a range of relaxing and reinvigorating treatments. Cut out this voucher and bring it with you to your appointment to receive £5 off!* * Valid until 31st July 2017
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eyond Beauty
Call 07786798146 to book an appointment 2 Upper Lambridge St, Larkhall, Bath BA1 6RY
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Beach Ready... Hollywood hot wax £30 Lash/brow tint & shape £22 Mini Mani and Pedi £40 Beaubronz Spray Tan £30 Quote this ad when booking. No two offers can be used together.
green street house, 14 green street, bath BA1 2JZ
Tel :01225 426000
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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E V E T E R I N A RY C A R E
HEATSTROKE AND OUR FURRY FRIENDS As the weather gets warmer during the summer, we need to look after our pets to prevent problems such as overheating, heatstroke and flystrike DOGS
All hot environments can cause heatstroke! The most common causes are leaving a dog in a car on a hot day or forgetting to provide shade to an animal kept outdoors. Signs of heatstroke include: Heavy panting Drooling excessively Lethargy/Lack of coordination Vomiting Collapse Certain types of dog are more prone to heatstroke, such as, dogs with thick, heavy coats or dogs with very short, flat faces such as pugs and bulldog types. Dogs with certain diseases or on some types of medication are also more at risk.
CATS
Cats do not tolerate heat and can overheat quickly. Cats pant or sweat through their foot pads to get rid of excess heat, whereas dogs eliminate heat by panting. Signs of heatstroke include: Restless behaviour Panting Drooling Excessive grooming
Redness of the tongue and mouth Vomiting Lethargy
SMALL FURRIES
Due to their size and being unable to escape their hot hutches, rabbits and guinea pigs can also suffer from heatstroke. Signs of heatstroke include: Reddening of the ears Panting Lethargy Salivating Weakness/ slow movement Acting confused Convulsions Treatment and Prevention If your pet is displaying any signs of heatstroke, move them to a cool, shaded area and douse them with cool (not cold) water, to avoid shock. If possible, you can also use wet towels or place him/her in the breeze of a fan and allow them to drink small amounts of cool water. Heat stroke can be prevented by taking caution not to expose your pet to hot and humid conditions. While traveling in cars, make sure that the dog is well ventilated by placing him/her in a wired cage or in an open basket, and never leave
your dog in a car with the windows closed, even if the car is parked in the shade. When outdoors, always make sure your pet is in a well-ventilated area with access to plenty of water and shady spots. Walk dogs early in the morning and late at night away from the hottest part of the days. Put hutches in shaded areas and cover with well-ventilated material to prevent flies entering the hutches. Freeze some water bottles and leave them out for your rabbit or guinea pig. They enjoy laying in the cooled air around these bottles and may even lick some condensation off the sides. Always seek veterinary attention if you have any concerns or worries that your pet has become overheated or is suffering from heatstroke. For enquiries or to book an appointment contact Bath Vets on 01225 832 521.
Rosemary Lodge, Wellsway, Bath BA2 5RL 01225 832 521; www.bathvetgroup.co.uk f Bath.Vet.Group
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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E L E G A L F O C U S
BE CAREFUL HOW YOU GIVE HELEN STARKIE discusses the pitfalls of giving to avoid care costs
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hung parliament – and we shall have to wait to see what will come of manifesto promises and threats! One manifesto ‘hot potato’ which has attracted a good deal of comment in the press in recent weeks is what is to be the future of care funding for the elderly and I am sure I am not the only professional who has been contacted in the run up to the election by clients asking what they can do to divest themselves of assets which might, at the end of the day, be absorbed in care fees. The average annual cost of educating a child at a private boarding school in England is currently £32,000. The average cost of residential care for the elderly is the same – and it is £43,000 for residential nursing care. School fees are generally paid by someone earning an income. Care fees for the elderly tend to be paid from much lower income and involve eating into their capital. There is state support for care fees but that is means tested and local authorities will not offer any support until the value of a person’s assets (including the value of their home if they do not share it with a spouse or other qualifying relative) falls below £23,250. So, if you want to pass on assets to members
“THERE IS A VARIETY OF LEGITIMATE REASONS FOR, AND WAYS IN WHICH YOU CAN PASS ASSETS ON TO YOUR FAMILY” of your family rather than have them depleted in care costs, should you need care in later life, what can you do? Well, there is no one simple answer; the options entirely depend upon your personal circumstances and the value of all of your assets. There is a variety of legitimate reasons for, and ways in which you can pass assets on to your family in order to mitigate Inheritance Tax liabilities – so if your estate is sufficiently substantial you can, with appropriate advice from your solicitor, make gifts during your lifetime in order to do that and the exercise will incidentally legitimately reduce the value of your assets for care funding means-testing. But if your reason for disposing of assets is solely to guard against care costs then you need to
be very careful indeed! Gifting – or otherwise disposing of – assets with the object of avoiding care costs is defined in the Care Act 2014 as a ‘deliberate deprivation of assets’ and if a local authority can prove that a person has deliberately deprived him or herself of an asset, they may means test them as if that asset were still owned by them. ‘Disposal’ of an asset for these purposes might include a sale of the asset for less than its real value, the transfer of the title to a house to someone else, cash gifts out of character with previous spending, or reduction of capital by disproportionate spending – e.g. on gambling. I have come across clients whose estates are unlikely ever to be liable to Inheritance Tax, who have been persuaded by unregulated advisers to transfer assets – including their home – into a trust, labelled an ‘Asset Protection Trust’. The bad news is that such a transfer will almost certainly be seen by the authorities as a deliberate deprivation and not only will the client still be means tested as if they still own the property, in all probability they will also have paid a good deal in costs to set up the trust arrangement in the first place! The situation regarding these trusts is different if they are set up for genuine Inheritance Tax planning reasons or if the trust is set up in the Will of one spouse who subsequently dies and whose surviving spouse then needs care. Contrary to popular belief there is no fixed time beyond which a local authority can investigate disposals – and in light of recent savage cutbacks in their budgets authorities are under intense pressure to investigate cases which in previous years they may not have looked at. All this is not to say that you cannot make gifts at all during your lifetime, but the golden rule is to take proper advice from a qualified and regulated professional on what safe options are open to you.
Helen Starkie Solicitor 5 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2PH 01225 442 353 www.helenstarkie.co.uk
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 111
Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions
B AT H G E T S S ER I O US Tim Lambert is helping businesses to grow
Dominic Day is rugby player turned marketing director
STRATEGIES
TACKLING A NEW INDUSTRY When a rugby player partnered with a businessman, a new company arose Ex-Bath Rugby player Dominic Day has made a career move few fans would have expected, as he has become a business partner to Tim Lambert whose new sales, marketing and consultancy business is working to change Bath for the better. Tim is the managing director of Haydart, a small company which launched in November 2016 with a view to shaking up how consultancy currently operates. They strongly believe in staff empowerment and flexibility, utilising all of the modern communication tools available. Tim’s business partner Dominic is an international professional rugby player and works as marketing director for Haydart. After completing his degree at Cardiff, Dominic went full time in professional rugby, playing 120 games for Scarlets over seven years before joining Bath in 2012. He went on to play 110 games for Bath, and during his last year there he was selected to play for Wales in the 2015 Rugby World Cup. He explained his recent career change and said, “Knowing that unfortunately rugby will not last forever, I have been looking for something to push on with post-rugby. I met Tim during my playing days at Bath and we shared similar interests. When the opportunity came to work together I was delighted. “At the moment, while I am playing, I will input as much as I can whilst working around my rugby commitments. But it can give a welcome distraction and something to get my teeth into.” The focus of Haydart is to help businesses to grow in a
variety of ways. They advise and support in several areas. Firstly, they deal with growth capital by connecting businesses with the right funding partners through their large network of finance connections. Secondly, they outsource sales for smaller firms who may not be in a position to take on a full time sales director; they do this by outsourcing the work to themselves. They also work in third party sales, which helps larger firms who may want external output on their sales and marketing strategy or an individual campaign. One of their other main tasks is to help foreign firms looking to launch a business or product in the UK, and one of Dominic’s roles is to use his sporting and business connections to find the right speaker for any type of event. They are currently working on a range of schemes, mostly for Bath-based businesses. One of their biggest projects is helping a luxury property developer raise a multimillion-pound equity and debt financing to take the business to the next level, which will be concluding later this summer. They are also working with Paragon Structures in Bath to develop their full sales and marketing strategy as they grow their sports centre projects in the UK. Far from limiting themselves to only working with large businesses, they are working on smaller projects too in an effort to help Bath thrive even more than it already does. For more: www.haydart.co.uk
QUOTE OF THE ISSUE
“IT BECAME A PLACE OF REFUGE FROM THE HUSTLE OF THE SHOW” How did a bunch of balloons become an immersive attraction at the Chelsea Flower Show? Turn to page 117 to find out
5,000 THE BIG NUMBER
How many years an ancient practise has existed which is now helping children in Bath See page 118 for more information
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 113
BUSINESS INSIDER
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
JACQUI EDMISTON AND MICHELLE AITKEN Founding partners of Verve Living tell us all about their love for interiors Tell us a bit about your background... JE: I’m a bit nomadic; I was born just south of Manchester, but moved when I was eight to South Africa and have since lived all over the place. By far the longest I’ve lived anywhere is Singapore, where I stayed for over 17 years. I returned from there to the UK and settled in Bath nearly six years ago. MA: My dad was in the army so I also feel I have no roots as such. Places I’ve called home are London (15 years) and Bath (15 years). What did you want to be when you were little? JE: An air stewardess – though, in truth, that was much more about travelling the world than a burning desire to wait on people. MA: Me too. I always loved the uniform. What was your first job? JE: Selling advertising space on a business magazine based in London. Not very exciting, but great training and a wonderful team of people. MA: An account exec at WCRS which is now some global agency whose name I’ve lost track of. My career in advertising really was the most fun you can have with your clothes on. The switch to being an interior stylist was a gradual one following my move to Bath, as, although the creative and people skills translated easily, I had to earn my stripes all over again. How did Verve Living first come about? JE: From a desire to showcase interiors that reflect the way real people actually live; so old and new pieces placed together, creatively curated and stylishly presented. We’d already tested this theory out in a pop-up shop the year before we opened Verve, and it seemed to resonate with people, so we decided to finetune the offering and take the plunge. We also wanted to champion local artists and makers and have tried hard to make sure we only source in Britain: that’s a hard ask at times but it’s important to us. What do you feel are the most rewarding aspects of your work? JE & MA: Meeting and chatting to the people that come into Verve. We’re obviously biased but we do have some lovely customers, many of whom really ‘get’ what we’re trying to do with Verve – whether that’s ethos, space, products, or all three. And that’s especially satisfying. How do you stay motivated? JE: Funnily enough, I don’t find it hard to stay 114 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
motivated, I think because it’s our business and ultimately the buck stops with us. I never imagined I’d have my own business and am surprised at how rewarding it has been. MA: Agreed. I was self-employed prior to Verve and loved it, but setting up a ‘proper’ business has been uber stimulating. I think if you enjoy what you do, motivation really isn’t an issue.
Michelle and Jacqui had a variety of jobs before deciding to run a business
What makes your business stand out from others? MA: It sounds a bit clichéd, but we really wanted to create something that was more than just another interiors shop. Right from the word go it’s been as much about the Verve ‘experience’ as the products we sell: so as well as a light, airy, uncluttered space, unique products and great customer service, we have run workshops and regular events and are always looking at new ways of encouraging creativity. What future plans do you have for Verve? JE: Being a small business (there’s just the two of us) we take one step at a time and try not get too ahead of ourselves. We are planning to do more events, are actively looking at some exciting collaborations and are constantly looking to improve what we offer. What was the proudest moment for the company? JE: Without a doubt, opening the doors in September 2015. After all the months of hard work, it felt so good! MA: That was a great moment, but I think I felt most proud at our first anniversary party: the great turnout, the positive commentary and the fact that people truly seemed to feel we were offering something different. Anything about you that might surprise us? JE: I have a love of all things ABBA, and a tendency to dance embarrassingly to anything from the 80s. MA: I’m just your regular gal with a man, kids, dog, and a love of creativity in all its many glorious forms. For more: www.verveliving.uk
IT’S BEEN AS MUCH ABOUT THE VERVE ‘EXPERIENCE’ AS THE PRODUCTS WE SELL
MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC
BATH RUGBY NEWS Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters
Tonia Lovell
BOARD OF APPROVAL Bath Building Society Group have appointed Tonia Lovell, a chartered secretary, as executive board member. During the last nine years Tonia’s role has developed and grown, and in 2011 she became a member of the Senior Management Team. www.bathbuildingsociety.co.uk
THE BIG 40 The Hobsons Choice Swindon showroom hosted the biggest party in the company’s history to mark their 40th anniversary in style. Over 220 invited guests attended the newly renovated flagship kitchen, bathroom and interiors showroom to celebrate. www.hobsonschoice.uk.com
NEW LEASE OF LIGHT Edmundson Electrical have just opened a new premises on Maltings Industrial Estate. Their previous site on Locksbrook estate is no longer operating and their new home is more fit for purpose. They specialise in selling lighting and wiring accessories to electricians and the public, and will be celebrating their new move with an open day at the end of July. www.edmundson-electrical. co.uk
Bath Rugby Foundation want you to be a part of their running team for the 2018 Vitality Bath Half. Whether you’re a seasoned half marathon runner or want to start pounding the pavement, there’s no better place to start, they say, than at the Vitality Bath Half, which is suitable for all abilities. Running as part of the Bath Rugby team means you will help to raise money for the foundation and you will also get all of this included: limited edition Bath Rugby Foundation running vests, hot showers in the Bath Rugby players’ changing rooms, pre- and post-race massages, food and drinks, goody bags, secure bag storage throughout the day, and a training and nutrition plan
You’ll not only raise money for charity but you’re sure to have a lot of fun
with tips on how to perform at your best. They will provide you with the tools you need to get the most out of your fundraising efforts, and Bath Rugby Foundation ask that you raise £250 for their charitable causes. If you’d like to join the team you have two options – you can sign up as an own place runner, or a charity place runner and once you’ve signed up you need to email Halena.Coury@bathrugby.com to receive your information and support pack. Good luck to everyone who enters, and let the training begin! For more: www.bathrugbyfoundation.com | www.bathhalf.co.uk
BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY From city centre conferences to networking breakfasts, make a note of these dates and make them work for you 2 7 JU N E
Business coach Peter Rolliston will be hosting an ActionCOACH business strategy workshop entitled Get your Business Working. With the lure of increasing your profits by 61 per cent in 12 months, the two-hour session will cover all manner of strategies. Abbey Hotel, North Parade. Free. 10am-12pm.
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Go along and experience an evening of art over informal networking at The Royal High School Bath Art Show 2017. Lansdown Road, Bath. £10.50£15.50. 6pm-8pm.
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This session is hosted by Cool Ventures and will provide 12 hours of free support to businesses in the Council area. Bath and County Club. www.coolventures.co.uk/bathnes
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YENA – the network for young entrepreneurs and ambitious professionals – will be holding its next networking meetup at the 4 JU LY Bath Brew House. Entry is free so Join Bath Chamber of Commerce go along, socialise and be inspired and Visit Bath for the next by like-minded individuals. 7pm. Networking and Nibbles Event. www.yena.co.uk
6 AUG U S T
Companies will compete in the Bath World Cup at Monkton Combe School Sports Ground. Any proceeds go to Creative Bath and the Bath Boules Trust. Team ticket is £250 plus VAT. 10.30am. www.creativebath.org
Successful, well-established year-round language school in the centre of Bath requires
HOMESTAY HOSTS IN BATH to host both short-term and long-term students. We teach adults and teenagers, and need both single and twin-room accommodation. For further details, including rates of payment, please contact our Accommodation Manager: Sarah Wringer, KIE Bath, 5 Trim Street, Bath, BA1 1HB Direct Line (01225) 473502, Email: sarah.wringer@kaplan.com
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DELIVERIES TO YOUR DOOR... 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
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BUSINESS INSIDER BREAKING NEWS
FANTASTIC FOUR Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing or important local business stories right now
AN EXTRAORDIN-AIRY SIGHT Bath-based balloon styling company, Riot Balloons, had their very own unique installation exhibited at the recent Chelsea Flower Show. The company, who provide balloon installations for events such as weddings and photoshoots, were commissioned by the Royal Horticultural Society to Fiona MacOwen and Catharine Chenery
create something new for ‘the tunnel’ — a 20 metre passageway between key areas of the show. Over the course of a week, the team of 12 produced a huge balloon and foliage canopy, nicknamed the Chelsea Jungle, incorporating audio and light to make it truly immersive. Fiona MacOwen co-designed and produced the canopy with Catharine Chenery of Catharine Chenery Garden and Botanical Design. Fiona, creative director of Riot Balloons says, “Visitor response was overwhelmingly positive and it became a place of refuge from the hustle of the show — which was exactly our intention.”
Hill House, on the northern slopes of Bath, has won a prestigious architectural RIBA South West Award from the Royal Institute of British Architects. The house, designed by city-based architects Mike Keys and Anne Claxton, was one of 14 awardwinning projects in the South West. Chairman of the judges, Chris Dyson of Chris Dyson Architects says, “We admired the sophisticated elegant simplicity of the plan, and the subtle massing for a large family house within a conservation area. Modernism of this quality is rare within the centre of Bath and should be encouraged.” RIBA South West Awards recognise examples of innovative new architecture in the region.
Unprecedented support for next year’s Bath Life Awards means that a remarkable 20 sponsors are already in place – and there are virtually no categories left. Leading the way once more is Headline Sponsor, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa along with its brand partner, Taittinger. Bristol Airport sponsors the Platinum Award again. New this year is an Environmental Award from first-time sponsor, the Bath BID. Also new is a Rising Star award, sponsored by SoVisionIT, for a key young talent. The other main sponsors are: Savills, Novia, Bath Rugby, Apex Hotels, Bluefin, Minuteman, Tile & Flooring, First Bus, Kersfield, Bryers, Clifton Marquee Company, Fidelius, Bath Audi, Hawker Joinery, Stone King, Homelets, Bath VW, Circo and Enlightened. “It is absolutely superb how Bath businesses are supporting the Bath Life Awards – and this far out! We are talking with other potential commercial partners about any remaining options,” says event eanager Steph Dodd. “And it’s great to have the backing of the Bath BID. It’s strategically so important to Bath and we are delighted to have an Environmental Award for the first time.” A limited number of Silver Sponsorships, which include a table for eight, will go on sale in August. The Awards have sold out for several years some months ahead of the grand night. In 2017, tickets weren’t even put on general sale, due to the support from sponsors and extraordinary demand from Finalists. Once more, the Bath Life Awards will be held at the Assembly Rooms. “We’re capped at exactly 500 people and could easily sell another 100. But it’s the spiritual home of the Awards and we will be delighted to return there on 1 March,” adds Steph. The new Awards site will be live shortly. A free “How to Win a Bath Life Award” seminar will be held in September and nominations open in November. The Awards are judged by a panel of independent judges, newly chosen each year.
For more: www.architecture.com
For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk
For more: www.riotballoons.co.uk | www.catherinechenery.co.uk
THE AWARD-WINNING HOUSE ON THE HILL The modern simplicity caught the eyes of the RIBA judges
BATH LIFE AWARDS: NEARLY SOLD OUT
TROPIC LIKE IT’S HOT Natural Spa Factory, which was established in Bath in 2009, supplies some of world’s most prestigious spas, boutique hotels and independent retailers with its skin care products, and it has now extended its international partnerships with spas in both the Maldives and Malta. Working exclusively with esKape Spa, due to open in September at the Kandima Resort, Maldives, and augmenting Malta’s Heaven Day Spa’s long-established treatment offering, Natural Spa Factory will supply a selection of bespoke,
tailored treatments using botanical ingredients. Kandima Spa’s collection of 28 treatments, many of which are conducted ‘al fresco’ for an immersive experience, are all inspired by the breath-taking island location. The spa director at Kandima Maldives says, “As we say, ‘to esKape to the spa is like heaven on earth’ and we’re thrilled to have Natural Spa factory supporting us on our journey.”
An al fresco spa treatment at the Kandima Resort in the Maldives is now on our bucket list
For more: www:naturalspafactory.com
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BUSINESS INSIDER
BATH LIFE AWARDS 2017
HEALTH WINNER Sponsored by
YOGADOO Lucy Aston, founder of YOGADOO wasn’t always a full-time yogi. Once upon a time she had a career in PR and even a job as a BBC journalist, but some important life events made her want to teach yoga to spread its physical and mental health benefits… So how did it feel to win a Bath Life Award? How did you celebrate? Because YOGADOO is a very young business, and because of the quality of the other finalist businesses, we were genuinely overwhelmed when we saw the YOGADOO logo flash up on the screen to announce we had won. When a panel of strangers, who are all incredible business people in their own right, grant you a little bit of recognition for what you have achieved, then suddenly you start to think that you might be doing something right. We were all thrilled but our son was particularly proud, and took the trophy to school for ‘show and tell’ in his class. We went for a family meal to celebrate. What makes YOGADOO unique? There isn’t another company like us. YOGADOO is quite different to other yoga businesses as the lion’s share of the yogis stepping foot on our mats are under 16 years old. We are working in over 35 schools in the area, teaching children from reception through to teenagers taking their GCSEs. Our teachers are qualified to teach yoga and mindfulness to youngsters and give them a fun and engaging introduction to yoga which arms them with ways to regulate their emotions, relax and learn about their bodies. How did you get into this career? I’ve practiced yoga for 20 years, starting at university when studying for a law degree. I’ve continued to use yoga throughout my life to find a bit of calm and grounding whilst working as a BBC journalist and a PR director. I call yoga my ‘ctrl alt del’ button – the perfect way to reset. It was our eightyear-old son Freddie’s idea that I should start an after-school club at his primary school. At that time, I was working as a PR director in Bath so on my one day off a week 118 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Lucy Aston at the Bath Life Awards
I started to teach at his school. But it wasn’t until I was staying in Paris for my teacher training during the weekend of the 2015 terror attacks, which really affected me, that I realised life is short and precious and I wanted to do something more meaningful with my life. That is when YOGADOO was born; I gave my notice in on my PR job, and went from there! Why do you have a particular passion for teaching young people and children? Children are growing up in a very different world to the one where us parents and grandparents grew up. They lead much busier lives and have many more distractions than we ever did. There are also many more youngsters with mental health problems, which concerns me. I really do feel if children and young people can find ways to become more resilient and self-regulate their emotions and feelings, it will stand them in good stead as they grow up. Maybe a 5000-year-old practice is exactly what we need in this modern age; it’s back to basics. What advice would you give someone looking to teach yoga? Think really carefully about why you would like to teach yoga. If you have a well-developed practice then that’s certainly a good start but the reality of turning a hobby or passion into a career can be tricky. But that’s not to say don’t do it. Do your research on teacher training, make sure your course is accredited, and go for it, but consider all the time it takes to plan lessons, marketing and running the business itself for you to become a success. What do you feel are the benefits of doing yoga regularly? The benefits are endless and it is only once you start regular yoga practice and then stop that you’ll realise what you take from it. For me personally, it helps relieve my back problems,
after rowing for three years at university and years of a desk job; I have sciatica and that is triggered if I stop practicing yoga for any length of time – with yoga, the symptoms completely disappear. So it can help you to strengthen your back, release tension from throughout your body, improve your posture, and lengthen and tone your muscles. But those are just some of the benefits to your physical health, for me yoga is equally, if not more, about helping to improve your mental health. Because you are focusing on yourself and your breath, it helps to calm, soothe and clear your mind. It is scientifically proven to help relieve stress, anxiety and depression and it’s a wonderfully powerful tool. What’s your favourite yoga pose and why? It’s really hard to say as I love them all for different reasons and it will depend on how I’m feeling, and what mood I’m in. But I would probably say ‘downward dog’ – just because it’s a measure of my mood. It’s a pose with benefits for all-over your body, from your ankles and heels all the way up your back into your neck and shoulders. Because I run, my hamstrings can be tight so it is perfect for stretching them. Any news to share, or exciting projects in the pipeline? So much has happened in our first year already. We’ve just opened our first pop-up yoga studio at Newton farm in Newton St Loe called the Yoga Barn which is very exciting; we’re running children’s yoga workshops at weekends and in the holidays, in such a beautiful setting overlooking the farm. We are also hoping to add adult classes to the Yoga Barn timetable very soon. Over the next few months we are working with several Bath charities on some really interesting projects, using yoga as therapy with young people. For more: www.yogadoo.co.uk
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 OPENS NEW FULLY SERVICED OFFICES IN SOUTHGATE, BATH Just a short walk from Bath railway, bus stations and bustling Southgate you’ll find the newest offices from local business REGENCY OFFICES
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he building in Lower Borough Walls, houses nine fabulous offices and has been redecorated with new carpets throughout. It’s ready now for companies to move straight in. There’s a shower available for use for those who like to get some exercise on the way to work or in their lunch hour! Tony Williams, Regency Offices’ MD says, “We are delighted to be opening new offices in Bath. Our aim as a company is to give new, small and growing businesses, as well as those larger ones seeking a representative office in Bath, the chance to work in an office without
committing to a long lease, we have made our terms as flexible as possible.” Contracts are renewable on a three-monthly basis and rent starts at just £250 per month and is inclusive of business rates, all utilities, cleaning, waste collection, office furniture, all building maintenance, tea and coffee. 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 is making them even more productive!
Lee Armitage of Intelligent Plans and Examinations says . . . . “We first joined Regency in March 2016 and have just relocated to another one of their Bath buildings for more space. Tony, Colino and the team unfailingly cater for our every need and nothing is ever too much trouble. We can get on and run our business whilst they take care of our accommodation requirements, all at a reasonable cost compared to other providers.”
Amazing umbrellas just around the corner from the new offices
For more information, and to see all the offices we have available visit our website or call Tony or Colino on 01225 326400. 3 Princes Street, Bath BA1 1HL info@regencyoffices.com www.regencyoffices.com
Bath’s leading marble & Granite co. for over 30 years Free no obligation site survey for quotation purposes
• Sinks and taps now available at competitive prices • Kitchen worktops • Bathrooms • Fireplaces • Flooring • Natural stone tiles & memorials • Bespoke templating and fitting service Office and Showroom open 8am - 5pm Monday to Friday and Saturday 9am - 1pm Tel: 01761 412934 • Fax: 01761 417068 • hobbsmarblegranite@btinternet.com Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton, Bath, BA3 2AA • www.hobbsmarbleandgranite.co.uk
a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e I T S P E C I A L I S T S
Meet the IT SPECIALIST We meet some of the best ‘techies’ in town who can help your business with everything from preventing cyber attacks to finding the best software for your needs.
ADAM morris
mark adams
Avagio; 01249 654 871 www.avagio.co.uk
The IT Guy mark@iamtheitguy.co.uk
What sets you apart from other companies? We benchmark our customer satisfaction ratings across other UK IT support companies. There are lots of ways of measuring customer service, but we believe customer satisfaction feedback is the most important, as ultimately it is the customers’ perception of the service that is most important. We routinely come top of the leader board month after month with an overall rating of around 99% which is exceptional. Most rewarding aspects of the job? Being thanked by our clients after a high profile scare like the NHS Wannacry news story, for ensuring all their systems are protected. A core component of our service includes an innovative software and services solution called SleepEasy which does exactly what it says on the tin! None of our SleepEasy clients had to worry about a thing.
What sets The IT Guy apart from other companies? I’m not going to lie here, the main selling point for us is our competitive pricing along with the excellent customer service that we provide. The combination of those two factors have seen us grow by 150% in the last year! We work with all sorts of industries ranging from a 1 PC company to over 100 PCs and they all receive the same high level of service from us. By simplifying your IT solutions we can often enhance the way you work and also save you money. This makes for a very happy customer and that is what drives us!
If you could give one bit of advice what would it be? We would recommend that all businesses looking to grow adopt a strategic mentality with IT and work with their IT teams to develop a comprehensive technology roadmap.
Most rewarding aspects of the job? Without doubt it would be helping people. It’s what we do all day. Resolving a niggling issue that is holding somebody back from that deadline, or coming up with a solution which could save somebody hours of work. Customers are grateful when we save the day and it’s a very rewarding feeling. MAC or PC? PC! Though my business partner would say MAC.
Tom Cannon
Rob Phelps
Moore Stephens 01225 486100 tom.cannon@ moorestephens.com www.msbit.co.uk
Netzen rob@netzensolutions.com
What are the top three tips that could help prevent a cyber-attack? 1. Change your passwords as regularly as possible and do not use the same password for everything 2. Make sure that your antivirus software is installed and up to date 3. Make sure that your backup is working correctly on a daily basis. What is the most interesting project you have worked on? During the last 12 months the one that stands out for me would be where we provided fully managed Wi-Fi coverage for a luxury hotel and golf club just outside of Bath, with admin and guest portal across 42 bedrooms, wedding function & conference rooms, the bars and outdoor areas. What makes you different from the rest? We look to recycle equipment that may no longer be required by businesses and find schools that might not quite have the budget for new equipment and are willing to use recycled PCs.
What sets you apart from other IT companies? We don’t just provide IT support, we work with businesses to try and help them thrive on the web. We are frequently launching new websites and promoting them with our search engine optimisation techniques that help them to get a strong position on Google. If you could give one bit of advice what would it be? Budget for increasing IT costs as software vendors (like Microsoft) are changing to subscription based billing models. As fibre and faster internet services are now becoming more common, software vendors are utilising the cloud to provide services that will incur monthly or annual subscription charges. What will be the biggest IT challenges for businesses moving forward? Based on recent events I would have to say the threat posed by cyber criminals. With large organisations like the NHS falling victim to Ransomware attacks, it is a wakeup call to business owners that network security has to be taken seriously and significant investment should be made in recovery.
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I T S P E C I A L I S T S adve r tising featu r e
Rob Morgan
Protel Communications Ltd 01179 864 777 www.protelcomms.co.uk How long have you been established? January 2018 will be our 30th birthday! What services do your company offer? We offer IP, digital and cloud telephone solutions to a diverse range of clients from start-up businesses through to multi-national companies, along with competitive line rental and call costs. Network and fibre optic cabling is also a part of our portfolio. This includes design, installation and relocations to your existing infrastructure. What will be the biggest telecoms challenges for businesses moving forward? The transition from traditional lines to SIP Trunks. Since the announcement that the ISDN 2 service will cease in 2025 and along with the increase of homeworkers, the broadband infrastructure needs to be sufficient and resilient enough to support the emerging technologies. Most rewarding aspects of the job? Ensuring that we’ve fully understood and delivered our clients brief and provided them with the service they deserve. The majority of our clients have been with us for many years and we strive to keep them up to date with new applications which may benefit their company.
Nick Townsend soVision IT www.sovisionit.com
What makes soVision IT different from other IT providers? Our clients benefit from services that take the headache out of their IT. We have been providing this service for over 30 years to local schools, businesses and government agencies. Our services include: • Managed Services • Cloud & Hosting • Connectivity & Broadband • Design & Development What are my chances of being hacked? In today’s world without the right protection the chances are very high. Here at soVision IT, we aim to build robust layers of protection at every level, varying from end user education through to Application Control Policies. How can businesses save money on their IT? soVision IT work to ensure our clients are strategically investing in the right infrastructure that delivers cost-effective and efficient IT services. A stable and reliable infrastructure is important to businesses. We utilise technology such as virtualisation to ensure our clients get the most from their investment. Once we fully understand the customers’ requirements and budget, we will work to ensure we deliver the right solution.
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david webster
Verhoef Training davidw@verhoef-training. co.uk www.verhoef-training.co.uk What sets you apart from other companies? From its specialist beginnings supporting IBM Mainframes, we now provide over 250 courses supporting five operating systems, six databases and innumerable other courses for programming languages, systems analysis, DevOps, networking, security testing, project management and IT Auditing. Pretty much everything used by corporate IT infrastructures. There are only a handful of companies worldwide that can provide the technical environments required for the breadth and technical depth of the courses we deliver. What misconceptions are there about IT support? That it is easy, that it is intuitive and that it is better for consumers in this country if our companies outsource their support offshore. It may be cheaper now but it will be costly in the long term. Most rewarding aspects of the job? Without doubt the user experience. There is nothing more rewarding that a 10/10 course evaluation score; especially when we know the technical complexity of the subject. To have overcome the challenges of sourcing materials, environment and expertise for esoteric topics like say, Parallel Sysplex Implementation and Administration, does give you quite a buzz.
william wood
Datasharp Integrated Communications 4 Bath Business Park, Bath, BA2 8SG wwood@datasharp-ic.co.uk 08000 328274 What services do your company offer? I wish there was a simple way to summarise, but it’s pretty much everything to do with business communications, whether supplying a modern VoIP phone system, video conferencing, internet connectivity, network security or business mobile phones. Ultimately, it’s about us understanding what your business goals are, whether saving money, securing against the latest threats, saving travel time via use of video conferencing. What sets you apart from other comms companies? We’ve got a superb technology suite in our Bath office, allowing us to demonstrate everything we provide. There’s easily 30 different systems and platforms in there, covering all the different aspects of what we do, allowing customers to get hands-on with the technology and understand the differences between vendors before making a decision. What does a typical Datasharp client look like? We have customers ranging from 25 users in a single office to 1,500 users spanning multiple sites across the globe. Generally, they want to partner with someone they can trust to advise and support systems critical to the business.
a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e I T S P E C I A L I S T S
durgan cooper Cetsat 0800 195 3838 www.cetsat.com
Deep Blue Sky 01225 444 674 www.deepbluesky.com
Gildas jones
Dial a Geek Ltd 0117 369 4335 www.dialageek.co.uk
james eades
What sets you apart from other IT companies? We are fortunate, the companies we work with see technology as an enabler. Our client base is diverse. Regardless of size we appreciate their willingness to innovate. We offer a 24-hour global helpdesk coupled with the ability to put local support on-site here, and in London. We specialise in delivering robust infrastructure and business continuity. These days it’s not just about taking the stress out of IT but delivering a transparent quality service.
What services do your company offer? We specialise in business automation and digital transformation solutions that drive innovation, change and efficiency in SMEs. What will be the biggest challenge for businesses in the next five years? Well, to be honest, if you think that your business will be recognisable in five years time then you’re kidding yourself. According to a recent Gartner survey, 2017 is the year 20% of all market leaders will lose their dominant position to a company founded after the year 2000, because of a lack of digital advantage. Business leaders will struggle to set a strategy that maximises their potential revenue in the digital economy. To be competitive and effective businesses must start to digitise and automate their processes, using machine learning to drive the organisation forward into the future. If you could give one bit of advice what would it be? “Culture eats strategy for breakfast”. Digital transformation requires businesses to think and lead differently. Be brave! Company-wide engagement and clear direction will be vital to business success. It’s never been more important to recruit creative thinkers and active innovators.
Aren’t all IT companies basically the same? We strive to be better. We don’t believe in a one-sizefits-all approach to IT support because no two businesses are exactly alike, so the service you receive will be the best for your business.
How long have you been established for? We’re celebrating 18 years this month! It’s hard to believe that when we started there was no broadband, very few businesses had a website and Windows 98 had only just been released.
What services do your company offer? Everything you need to help and support your business - from consultations to nittygritty tech solutions.
What sets you apart from other companies? Everything we do is on a 30 day term – no long-term contracts at all – and we still have customers who began working with us in the late 90s. We’re people-focused and our customers tell us that we’re different to other IT companies they’ve used in the way we don’t talk tech.
What are the misconceptions of IT support? More often than not IT support is only focused on after a negative event like the recent global WannaCry malware attack. Business leaders are becoming aware that technology is a boardroom issue, not just the domain of the IT provider. ‘Techies’ are the unsung heroes of business. Give your techies love, they save the day more often than you appreciate! What areas of IT do you specialise in? Our main line of business is providing professionally managed IT services to companies with between 10 to 200 staff. We can build and support IT systems all under one roof.
jim morrison
Systemagic 01225 426 800 www.systemagic.co.uk
What is the biggest misconception about IT support? Business owners often think their business is too small to need outsourced IT support, but as your business grows so will your tech requirements, and things like network security, cloud computing, and VoIP systems will become a necessity. What makes you smile when you’re at work? Quite a lot! There’s usually someone (trying) to be funny in the office. We also get some fantastic testimonials, but seeing clients’ businesses grow is definitely the most rewarding part of the job. Do I need to sign up to a contract to benefit from your support? If you’re not ready to sign up for a support plan, you can still use our pay-as-you-go IT support.
What will be the biggest IT challenges for businesses moving forward? There will be two big areas that businesses need to focus on in the coming year – and both seem boring and unnecessary to most business owners but are absolutely essential. GDPR is coming in to play in 2018, and will introduce a lot of new rules around how businesses of all sizes handle, store and protect data. Security is also key now and there will be a move towards ensuring all business networks have adequate security both on internal and mobile devices. We’re running seminars for clients on both of these subjects to help educate and create plans.
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 123
money TAlks To find out why our region’s professional financial services are rated so highly, we speak to six of the industry’s leading figures
Tom Annear
communicators. Many are also very experienced in the profession and are very highly qualified. All these attributes mean that our clients get the very best advice from a firm that’s empathetic, wellresourced and ideally placed to deploy the right solution for them.
Head of business development and marketing at Epoch Wealth Management for four years How would you describe what your company offers? Epoch is a financial planning firm. We help clients attain financial autonomy through educating and engaging them in what can be a pretty daunting, if not dull, process. Under the bonnet, we’re an IFA like many others. However, the way we provide our advice, the people, the technology, expertise and processes we employ means that taking advice from us is a beneficial experience for many clients. What are the key benefits to your clients? Clients are not numbers. They get the time they deserve with an adviser, not the time the adviser can spare them. Clients have access to at least three people at Epoch who know their situation intimately. We employ people who are expert 124 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
What is the biggest mistake people make when looking to invest for their future? Many people come to us fixated on the minutiae, for example, “Why has this fund performed badly this year?”. The process we go through with them educates them to re-frame the question so it becomes “What does this fund performing badly this year mean in terms of achieving my life aims?”. Ultimately, the relative performance of funds should concern clients less than what that performance means in terms of when they can retire or sell their business, for example.
Tom Annear
What one piece of advice would you give to people looking to retire early? Make sure that you know what the threats are to
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES people moving out of cash savings and into investments, but that’s not the way customer behaviour works. People realise that interest rates are low because there is general concern about the health of the economy and that always makes people a little more cautious. A lot of people hold money in Building Societies for rainy days when the washing machine or boiler breaks down and don’t want all their money locked up where they can’t readily access it. For more: www.bathbuildingsociety.co.uk
Alice Riley
Trainee financial planner at Beckford James for nine months
you achieving that goal. Life will always change in ways that you can’t plan for and you need to have a plan which is flexible enough to change with you. And by “plan”, I don’t mean “pension product”. I mean that the aggregation and interaction of all your resources, combined with all the possible things that’ll happen along the way need to be identified and quantified where possible. Only then can you see the threats and opportunities to being able to retire early.
Above: Dick Jenkins; below: Alice Riley
For more: www.epochwm.co.uk
Dick Jenkins
Chief executive of Bath Building Society for 14 years How would you describe what your company offers? Bath Building Society does what it says on the tin. It’s a Building Society headquartered in Bath, so we offer mortgages and savings accounts, and we also run a property letting agency called Bath Property Lettings. What makes your services different to other companies’? We provide mortgages to people who are creditworthy but not well served by the bigger lenders and people, so, rather than computers, we make the lending decisions. On the savings side, we offer a more personal service than our competitors because we are focused on Bath.
IT’S A GREAT
FEELING WHEN COMMON SENSE WINS OUT OVER BANKING
Tell us about your role My role at Beckford James is very diverse but has provided a great opportunity to enhance my skills managing and advising clients. I am very fortunate that I am not only supported through my CII diploma but receive regular internal guidance and direction throughout my training. Beckford James is one of few companies offering graduate training schemes for advisers, as well as having an administrative apprenticeship scheme. How would you describe what your company offers? Beckford James are chartered, independent financial planners which is not only a title highly regarded within our profession but something that I’m very proud to highlight when speaking with clients. Being independent ultimately benefits our clients since they receive tailored solutions that not only adhere to their objectives but have been put together upon review of the whole of the market. We also place emphasis on modelling financial plans, so that clients can be confident that all their needs will be addressed.
CONVENTIONS
The most rewarding aspect of your job? I love it when we help people to realise their dreams. In the mortgage area we have had many people tell us that we have helped them where others couldn’t. It’s a great feeling when common sense wins out over banking conventions. How has the investment industry (and people’s investment habits) changed over the last few years? Oddly, you would have expected that ultra-low interest rates over recent years would have seen www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 125
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES What makes your services stand out? What makes us different is the fact that we start with even a basic level of planning for the client, meaning the consideration of specific financial products comes much later in the process. Many advisers and firms start at a product level with a client, which misses the big picture. What one piece of advice would you give to people looking to retire early? Speak with a financial planner! The time window considered as retirement is continually extending with many likely to live increasingly longer on average. Consider whether all of your retirement will be healthy and the impact ill health or longterm care could have on your financial position. At Beckford James we utilize cash flow modelling software, where appropriate. This can identify any shortfall between the client’s income requirement and income expectations at a particular time period or in the event of a change of situations.
your hands on the money at the wrong time when investments are doing badly. So, if you have other money to fall back on, you can weather any shortterm investment storm as long as you can afford to leave the investment untouched. Any personal career highlights? I have had a really exciting few years where I have been recognised as one of the top financial planners in the country by the finance industry, winning many national awards in 2015 and 2016 including Financial Adviser of the Year at the Growth Investor Awards 2016, and Retirement & Later Life Specialist at the Personal Finance Awards 2016. This has led to me becoming one of the country’s leading commentators on pensions and retirement in the national press especially in The Times, Telegraph, Mail on Sunday, Financial Times and BBC. Above: Jonothan McColgan; below: Simon Ewings
How would you describe what your company offers? We provide independent financial advice to both individuals and businesses. The main areas of our advice are around wealth management – which typically involves both the construction of, and ongoing management, of an investment portfolio, and financial planning, which relates more to devising an overall financial plan tailored to clients’ goals and aspirations.
For more: www.beckfordjames.com
Jonothan McColgan
Director and chartered financial planner at Combined Financial Strategies for nine years
Can your briefly describe the benefits of your Chartered Financial Planner status? The Chartered Financial Planner professional title is the gold standard within the financial services industry and creates the benchmark for professional excellence and integrity. To become a Chartered Financial Planner you must satisfy rigorous criteria relating to professional qualifications and abide by a Code of Ethics. What one piece of advice would you give to people looking to invest? An investment is for life, not just for Christmas. You should only invest from a position of strength, where you can afford to put the money away for a very long time. Risk is needing to get 126 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Simon Ewings
Managing director at Monahans Financial Services for six years
Tell us a fun fact about yourself! When I have the time, one of my favourite hobbies outside work is baking. Although I’m unlikely to win The Great British Bake Off anytime soon, my fellow colleagues at Beckford James seem to have approved of my bakes so far.
How would you describe what your company offers? Many of our clients have a particular focus on when and how they can afford to retire. We help you to understand what you are going to need your money for and ensure that you take all the right steps to plan for the worst case scenarios. This will allow you to get on with living your life in the knowledge that you have made the right financial plans for your future. We offer independent financial advice that pulls together all of your financial affairs covering investments, retirement and tax planning.
For more: www.cfsorg.com
AN
INVESTMENT IS FOR LIFE NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES What makes your services different to other companies’? Monahans Financial Services is part of the Monahans group of companies, which offers other services such as accountancy and tax advice. Therefore, clients of Monahans are able to access a multitude of services ‘under the one roof’. This means we are able to provide a complete financial advice service without having to refer clients to other, unconnected companies for different aspects of their financial planning requirements. In addition, Monahans Financial Services is also a Chartered Financial Planning firm – a title only awarded by the Chartered Insurance Institute to those financial advisory business that can demonstrate the highest levels of professionalism.
The most satisfying part of your job? The most rewarding aspect is that we are able to innovate and create strategies and solutions that deliver institutional best practice to our clients and their advisers. We are not constrained by having our own funds to push. We also get a lot of encouragement and support from the leading lights of index investing, which is helpful when you are going against the grain of high-cost, more established managers.
Your personal career highlights? It would have to be that I’m one of the youngest people in the UK to obtain the Chartered Financial Adviser qualification. Also, becoming managing director of Monahans Financial Services in 2013 aged 35. Oh – and reaching the quarter finals of the Bath Boules last year! How has the Brexit vote affected the services you offer? We have made some adjustments to how and where we recommend clients invest their wealth, not just as a result of the Brexit vote, but this did have an influence on our thinking and advice. Tell us a fun fact about yourself... I am a fitness fanatic and love music – but according to my children, I am a terrible dancer.
Top: Jonathan Wheeler; above: Henry Cobbe
Financial planner at Chase de Vere for 15 years
Henry Cobbe
Head of Copia Capital Management for seven months — the Discretionary Fund Management arm of Novia Financial
What are the key benefits to your clients? It’s simple, clients get to keep more of what’s theirs. When people talk about fees, they compare it to assets (for example some managers might charge 1.5 per cent on assets). The secret is not to compare fees to assets but fees to returns. If long-run returns are 3 per cent, then 1.5 per cent fees means the manager gets half of all your portfolio’s growth. So by keeping fees down, there’s more scope to focus on what matters – getting the financial planning right (you can lose more from poor tax planning than any investment decision) and holding on to your returns. 128 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
For more: www.copia-capital.co.uk
Jonathan Wheeler
For more: www.monahans-fsl.co.uk
How would you describe what your company offers? We are offering an institutional-style approach to investing – focusing on getting the asset allocation right, and keeping costs down – but making it available to all. We call this an ‘actively passive’ approach.
What’s the most important piece of advice Copia gives to investment advisors? Focus on the desired client outcome and the client need. Investment is just part of the story on how to get there.
YOU CAN LOSE MORE FROM POOR TAX PLANNING THAN ANY INVESTMENT DECISION
How would you describe what your company offers? It’s a wholly independent financial planning service helping clients to meet their future goals. What makes your services different to other companies? Independence. We have no financial products of our own to sell, so each client benefits from a truly tailor-made approach. What are the key benefits to your clients? Expertise and care; I want my clients to rest assured knowing their future plans are being carefully considered and planned for. Service; life changes and so meeting or chatting over the phone regularly ensures I can plan accordingly which offers peace of mind. The most rewarding aspect of your job? Clients putting all of their trust in you to help them to make some really big decisions that will ultimately benefit not only them but also their family members. For more: www.chasedevere.co.uk
Plan a more rewarding financial future with Chase de Vere
As one of the country’s leading independent financial advisers, people regularly seek our advice on their investments, insurance, pensions and many other vital financial matters. We believe that’s because our advice is completely independent, and tailored to them. We do not offer one-size-fits-all solutions. Call 0345 300 6256 to arrange a complimentary initial consultation. 11 Seven Dials | Sawclose | Bath | BA1 1EN
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MetaMedia specialises in raising the proďŹ le of companies and individuals through coaching, training and video production 1 Park Villas, Upper Bristol Road, Bath BA1 3AN
01225 332857
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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E F I N A N C E
WHAT DOES YOUR RETIREMENT MEAN TO YOU?
Is it travel, relaxation, more time with the grandchildren? Or are you worried? COMBINED FINANCIAL STRATEGIES are here to advise
C
hanges to pension legislation have created fantastic opportunities for retirement planning. Not only are there attractive tax advantages, but also increasingly flexible ways you can access your pension pots. However, many of our clients initially approached us because they were concerned about all these options and the impact they could have on when, and how, they could afford to retire. As independent financial advisers, Combined Financial Strategies will pull together all of your financial affairs covering investments, retirement and tax planning to help you to understand what you will need, when you will need it and what you need to do now. So, when the time for retirement arrives, you will have a clear plan that will allow you to get on with living your life in the knowledge that you have made the right financial decisions for your future, just like Rob and Brenda...
RETIREMENT CASE STUDY
As Rob and Brenda approached retirement they were keen to ensure they maximised their income and made the most tax efficient use of the assets they had accumulated. Rob and Brenda held a number of pensions, assets and buy-to-let properties they planned to use to fund their retirement. They were however not too sure what all their assets could deliver in terms of income and how long it would fund their retirement for. They were recommended to Combined Financial Strategies by their solicitor when they were updating their wills.
OUR APPROACH
After our initial meeting, we sat down with Rob and Brenda and agreed some goals around their lifestyle in retirement before drawing up a cash flow forecast which focused on their long term retirement plans. This helped demonstrate how different levels of income impacted the amount of legacy they may leave their family.
THE OUTCOME
The result was that Rob and Brenda could take their dream six-month round the world holiday
by utilising some of Rob’s tax free cash from his pension plans. By reassigning some of their assets both can take a retirement income of over £20,000 and remain basic rate tax payers. With their immediate and long term needs taken care of, we were also able demonstrate how much they could afford to earmark for helping their children out financially. By working with their solicitor we were able to restructure their wills, pensions and investments which could save the family up to £200,000 in inheritance tax. Rob and Brenda now have annual meetings with us where we update and review their lifetime cash flow forecast and financial plan, providing them with financial peace of mind, to live the life they want, secure in the knowledge that they won’t run out of money. Did you know that our Director, Jonothan McColgan is currently Financial Adviser of the Year? Jonothan McColgan (Chartered and Independent Financial Planner) has been recognised as one of the top financial planners in the country by the finance industry winning many awards in 2015 and 2016 including Financial Adviser of the Year at the Growth Investor Awards 2016 & Retirement & Later Life
Specialist at the Personal Finance Awards 2016. He is also one of the country’s leading commentators on pensions and retirement in the national press. You will frequently find his commentary in The Times, Telegraph, Mail on Sunday, Financial Times and BBC.
Combined Financial Strategies Ltd 38 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2NT 01225 471 462; jonothan@cfsorg.com www.cfsorg.com “Combined Financial Strategies Ltd is an appointed representative of The Whitechurch Network Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Tax Strategies, Will Writing & Buy to Lets are not regulated by the FCA. Pensions are long term investments that will fluctuate and can go down in value. Your eventual income will depend upon the value of the fund, future interests rates and tax legislation at retirement.”
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F I N A N C E A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E
SILVER LINING WATSON FINANCIAL LTD Director Martin Watson reaches 25 year trading milestone
I
t’s gone by in a flash! 25 years has passed in a heartbeat. Change has been a constant during this time, whether in the form of regulation, education or proposition. In some ways though, nothing has changed at all. A good reputation is as important today as cutting edge financial solutions. An explanation to simplify what seems complex over a cup of tea goes a long way. Over time, trust equals delivery over expectation. The market is constantly evolving: Platforms, Wraps, Discretionary Fund Managers, Model Portfolios, D.I.Y Self Select investment, stock broking, decision tree pathways and passive algorithmic tracking mechanisms. Where do you start? In our diverse financial world there’s plenty of room for all of them. But when it
comes to the important financial decisions, our experience tells us that clients want face to face advice for accountability and peace of mind. So, at 25 years my course is set. Clearly I’m in it for the long term, that’s why we are investing in more support staff to provide support to our advisers and deliver that long term familiarity to our clients. Indeed our trading future has just been strengthened with our advisor network, Caerus Financial, having recently been acquired by Intrinsic, Old Mutual Wealth. Another journey begins…"
Watson Financial, 3 Fountain Buildings, Bath, BA1 5DU 01225 789 880 www.watsonfinancial.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.
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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E F I N A N C E
INHERITANCE TAX AND THE FAMILY HOME – THE RESIDENCE NIL RATE BAND The introduction of a new Residence Nil Rate Band was announced in the Summer Budget of 2015 and has now come into effect, from 6 April 2017, as Nick Oliver of PEARSON MAY explains
I
ndividuals may wish to review their Wills and consider the tax planning opportunities which might arise from the introduction of the RNRB. By April 2020, certain individuals could potentially see a reduction in their Inheritance Tax bill of up to £140,000.
Nil Rate Band
Each individual is entitled to an Inheritance Tax ‘Nil Rate Band’ (NRB) on their death of £325,000 (the NRB will be frozen at this level until April 2021). If the value of an individual’s estate on their death is less than that sum, no IHT is payable. If married couples have their wills written so that all their assets on death are passed to the surviving spouse then on the death of the second spouse they can benefit from their widow/widower’s NRB as well, meaning that the value of their estate would have to be more than £650,000 before any IHT is payable.
Nick Oliver, a Partner at Pearson May
“SOMETIMES THE COMPANY IS GIVEN THE RIGHT TO BUY THE SHARES OF THE DEPARTING SHAREHOLDER”
Residence Nil Rate Band (RNRB)
The new RNRB gives an additional nil rate band on death but differs from the basic NRB in that it can only be applied to the value of residential property inherited by direct descendants on an individual’s death. The RNRB will eventually be set at a level of £175,000 per individual but is being ‘phased in’ over four years starting at £100,000 for deaths on or after 6 April 2017. The maximum amount will then increase over the next three tax years to a maximum of £175,000 for 2020/21 onwards. Like the NRB, the RNRB can be transferred between spouses if it is not used in whole or in part when the first spouse dies, even if the first death occurred before 6 April 2017. Therefore, where a death occurs in 2017/18, the combination of the NRB and the RNRB will enable an individual to claim relief of up to £425,000. By 2020/21 it will be £500,000.
Conditions To Be Met
The RNRB is set against the value of a residence passing to qualifying beneficiaries. The residence does not necessarily have to be the property in which the individual lives when they die but it must have been occupied by them as their ‘residence’ at some point and included in their estate at death. If more than one property meets these criteria, the personal representatives of the deceased will be able to choose to which property the RNRB should be applied. The RNRB will not be available for buy-to-let properties or holiday homes etc. if the individual had never lived in these as his/her actual residence. Qualifying beneficiaries are one or more direct descendants e.g. children (including step-
children, adopted children or foster children), grandchildren etc. It should also be noted that, for properties which actually exceed the value of the RNRB, any unused NRB will still be available to cover the excess.
Downsizing
The original family home doesn’t need to be owned at death to qualify for the RNRB. Downsizing provisions have been put in place recognising the fact that many people move to a smaller home or into residential care.
Can the RNRB be lost?
For estates valued at over £2m (after deducting any liabilities but before reliefs and exemptions), the RNRB will be gradually reduced by £1 for every £2 that the value of the estate exceeds £2m. Careful tax planning can help to mitigate the effect of this. Existing ownership arrangements including joint tenancy and the use of discretionary trusts can potentially jeopardise the entitlement to be in the RNRB. It may be possible, with careful planning, to avoid losing out on this potentially valuable relief. It makes sense to keep wills under review to cater for changing circumstances. Tax planning exercises should also be carried out to ensure that based on current circumstances, reliefs are being preserved. Each individual’s circumstances are different and specific advice is essential. Please contact us if you would like to discuss anything further. The above is for general guidance only and no action should be taken without obtaining specific advice.
37 Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DA 01225 460491 mail@pearsonmay.co.uk www.pearsonmay.co.uk
PROPERTY
SHOWCASE
136 LIFELIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 112 II BATH CLIFTON I www.mediaclash.co.uk
SHOWCASE
PROPERTY
FUNKY FRESH With its wonderfully eclectic features and vibrant colour scheme, this recently renovated townhouse has been turned into a quirky and modern family home By SA F I A YA L L AOU I Photo s by PE T E H E L M E
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 137 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 113
PROPERTY
SHOWCASE
H
aving walked past 4 Alexander Buildings on London Road many a time, we could have only have imagined what fabulousness greeted the owners every day when they stepped through the front door, but what lies on the other side is a colourful feast for the eyes we couldn’t have dreamt of. This recently renovated five-floor house is much bigger than the outside would have you believe – with three bathrooms, four bedrooms, four reception rooms and a private garden/dining area that would be fitting for the grandest of parties. You enter the early 19th-century house at ground floor level via a gated garden. As you step through the front door, you forget the road and are drawn through to the spacious, light-filled formal drawing room with full-height window overlooking the mature Italianate garden and the rolling green landscape beyond. An original marble fireplace with gas fire makes this a cosy place to sit in the winter as well as the summer. A generous study also sits on this floor, offering a quiet space to work from home. As you sweep up the cantilevered stone stairs while holding onto the original walnut handrail, you can really feel the history of the property and imagine you might meet the original owner of the house, Ms Bennett, floating down the stairs in her Georgian finery. On the first floor, there is a beautiful spacious bedroom with a period fireplace and two fitted wardrobes, and the large south-facing window overlooks incredible views along with the vast 100-foot-long garden. At the front is another generous double bedroom with a period fireplace, and also on this floor is the handcrafted family bathroom. On the top floor, you’ll find two further large double bedrooms. The stunning master bedroom has a cleverly 138 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Clockwise, from top left: even from the outside, the property ‘pops’ with colour; the spacious kitchen has two islands; the flamingo-pink theme runs into the living room
HOUSE NUMBERS
3,377
square foot of space
4
bedrooms
£1.195M price
4
reception rooms
1
mile from the city centre
concealed built-in ensuite shower room and wardrobes running the length of one wall. It too has a period fireplace and utterly outstanding vistas from the large south-facing window. There is yet another generous double bedroom at the front with period fireplace and an original built-in wardrobe. Stairs lead down from the ground floor entrance hall to the lower ground floor where you’ll find the stunning kitchen and dining room. The tasteful, contemporary German kitchen is fully equipped with Neff appliances and a Quooker boiling water tap. The layout is unusual; two islands with a galley kitchen in the middle means it is a kitchen for cooking in and includes a seating area at the end of one island so that family can sit and talk while you cook. Double doors lead onto the balcony which overlooks the terrace and garden below. A built-in bench makes this a lovely place for a morning coffee. Stairs lead down from the balcony onto the terrace and to the impressive basement room which is currently used as the family room/playroom. The wonderful outdoor dining area is another gem of this house, and there is even some comfy sofa seating next to a show-stopping outdoor fireplace. The garden is split into two levels and, fittingly for this quirky house, you’ll find some ornate flamingos on the steps leading to a further sun terrace, and, through the rose-covered pergola, you’ll find a children’s play area with a playhouse and sunk-in trampoline. Though this is a family home, it has a fun and funkyfresh feel to it, so there’s no doubt that it will be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Tepilo, 16-18 Monument Street, London EC3R 8AJ; 0203 750 9011; www.tepilo.com
Box Road, Bathford, Nr. Bath Prices from £945,000
Vernon Terrace, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath Prices from £195,000
A luxury development of only four contemporary detached villas in this tucked away cul de sac situated on the North Eastern outskirts of Georgian Bath.
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
4 bedrooms (one with GF master bedroom) plus study/bedroom 5, Fitted kitchen breakfast room, separate utility room, large living/ family room, ground floor cloak room, Garage, parking and garden. Summer 2017.
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
Over
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in experience ty er p ro p the sector
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Pat White 01225 475800
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STONE SPECIALISTS
NORTON MASONRY LTD Stonework Specialists & General Builders
Repairs, Restoration Alteration of Stone Buildings New Build Stone Cleaning Stone Carving Fireplaces
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Tel: 01225 462688 / 07968 697091 Email: Julian@bathstonemasons.co.uk
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Nigel Dando 11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AY Tel/Fax: 01225 464013 www.nigeldando.co.uk
PLUMBING A family run business, installing, servicing and repairing boilers and heating systems in Bath for 25 years. Landlords Gas Safety Inspections also undertaken
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B AT H L I V E S
Q&A
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eturning to Bath for the fourth consecutive year, Forest of Imagination 2017 – which will run in parallel with the inaugural International Festival of Childhood – will aim to connect people with nature in all kinds of ways. This year’s event is being held at Bushey Norwood, the National Trust-owned meadows behind the University of Bath, and its organisers are working in partnership with The National Trust to transform the Iron Age landscape into a kaleidoscope of playful installations, art trails and workshops, with an emphasis on activities for children. Here, Andrew Grant, who co-founded the Forest of Imagination in 2014 with Penny Hay – a senior lecturer at Bath Spa University – and others, tells us what to expect... For those who have never been before, I’d describe the Forest of Imagination as… An event which creates a playful transformation of parts of the city for a few days each year. It combines art and play with science and nature and features work by international artists alongside the imagination of local artists, designers, students and schoolchildren. What sets this event apart from the other local festivals is… It’s a free and truly collaborative creative production by multiple local businesses, universities and schools. We deliberately choose a different location and theme each year to place a focus on the incredibly varied character of the city and its place in the world. We have an exciting link with another festival this year… Forest of Imagination 2017 is linked to the inaugural International Festival of Childhood at Edge Arts, University of Bath, on 29 June – 2 July. The Forest of Imagination will run in parallel with this important conference with installations and activities located within the Edge building and in Bushey Norwood, a National Trust meadow. We want to create an engaging and thoughtprovoking experience for all ages… But the emphasis will be on children and their connection with the natural environment. The project reinforces a renewed interest in the countryside around the city through the Bathscape project, and highlights the importance of engaging people with the experience outdoor play.
Penny Hay and Andrew Grant, co-founders of Forest of Imagination
ANDREW GRANT The co-founder of Forest of Imagination on having his project featured on David Attenborough’s Planet Earth II, the importance of outdoor play, and coming face-to-face with a wild fossa Some of the highlights this year include… ‘Aerocene’ – an air-fuelled sculpture by the globally acclaimed artist Tomas Saraceno – which allows participants to take aerial photographs and videos and to collect atmospheric data; 3D soundscapes by musician Martyn Ware, and an augmented reality ‘Giant Ant’ experience created by artist Anthony Head. As well as being a co-founder of the Forest of Imagination, I am a landscape architect and director of Grant Associates… My best moment, professionally speaking, was when Grant Associates won the Gardens by the Bay international design competition. This set in place a sequence of life-changing experiences linked to the Gardens that still keep coming (most recently we saw the project featured on David Attenborough’s Planet Earth II). I live in the wonderful world of Widcombe… I haven’t been there long but it really has a strong community spirit and you feel like you are living in the countryside. I moved to Bath almost 30 years ago; in that time, I have lived in Lower Weston, Camden Crescent, Great Pulteney Street and now on the south side of the river. The pleasures of living and working here are… Walking to work through a landscape and city of world-class quality and beauty; having the very best art, food, drink and shopping within a 15-minute walk from home; and knowing I share the city with people and organisations that are helping shape a better world.
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My favourite shop to pop into in Bath is… John Anthony, from which I have built up a collection of Vivienne Westwood clothes. In my opinion, the best local view is… The one from Camden Crescent – it’s pretty hard to beat with its fantastic panorama of the city centre and wooded skyline. When the mist sits on the valley floor, it is quite magical. The ideal spot to while away the hours at is… Pulteney Bridge and weir, which capture the history and spirit of the city. The primal sound and movement of the river over the weir, the delicate architecture of the bridge and the landscape backdrop of the Rec and wooded skyline beyond condenses the very essence of Bath. My most treasured possession is… A carved temple lion from Bali that I bought for myself on my 50th birthday. It is richly carved and wonderfully bizarre. A memory that will never leave me is… Waking up in the middle of the Kirindy Forest Reserve in Madagascar and opening the door of my hut to come face to face with a fossa and thinking I was dead meat. Fortunately, it took fright at my morning appearance and ran off. The Forest of Imagination runs from 29 June – 2 July. For more, visit www.forestofimagination.org.uk
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