Bath Life – issue 369 by MediaClash

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property @BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 369 / 6 – 20 JULY 2018/ £3

CARNIVAL CULTURE ISSUE 369 / 6 – 20 JULY 2018 / BATH BOULES SPECIAL

COLOURFUL BUYS INSPIRED BY BATH CARNIVAL

SHOP SMALL CELEBRATING INDEPENDENT RETAILER MONTH

PLAY IT BOULE

9 PAGES OF BATH BOULES COVERAGE

SPARKLE & SHINE BATHROOM DESIGN IDEAS

MAKE A

SCENE BATH-BASED DIRECTOR OTTO BATHURST TALKS PEAKY BLINDERS, JAMIE FOXX, AND HIS NEW FILM

EDITOR’S LETTER

W ABOVE, Fine stationer and letterpress printer Meticulous Ink is all about bespoke and unique creations (page 34); LEFT, We’re inspired by carnival colours on page 74

e’re all about supporting independent businesses here at Bath Life magazine. Being an independent ourselves, operating out of one office, in Bath, it only seems right that we champion other local businesses. And, as July is Independent Retailer Month, we’d like to encourage everyone to indulge themselves by shopping at the array of eclectic, vibrant and very cool indie boutiques on our doorstep. We’ve dedicated 10 pages of this issue to the crucial components of our thriving community: Bath’s indies – which include a shop that sells antique walking sticks made of human thigh bones; one with an owner who, at her kitchen table, makes every single piece she sells; and one which has to be built and disassembled every day (page 34). We also have a huge Bath Boules photo album for you, starting on page 14, which not only showcases the tournament – something of an institution around these parts – but shines a spotlight on many of the Bath Boules Week events: from the Creative Bath Awards bash, to the evening with Glastonbury legend Michael Eavis. Elsewhere, we chat with Otto Bathurst – who you’ll have already spotted on our front cover – a Bathbased film and TV director who’s worked on the likes of Peaky Blinders and Black Mirror. On page 54, he talks about his first feature film, Robin Hood, due out later this year, which stars Jamie Foxx and Jamie Dornan. See you in a fortnight...

LISA EVANS Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag Instagram @bathlifemag

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OPEN NOW Saw Close Bath BA1 1EY 01225 308 990 Know your limits! For more information go to: BeGambleAware.org â&#x20AC;&#x201C; DrinkAware.co.uk

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Come for the Action, Stay for the Fun!

Issue 369 / 6 – 20 July 2018 Cover Bath-based director Otto Bathurst

the arts

47 ARTS INTRO Be moo-ved by Joanne Cope’s love of

animals and her new exhibition of cattle paintings

48 WHAT’S ON Time to update the events diary 54 the big interview Meet Otto Bathurst, the

Bath-based director making a name in the industry

59 theatre Take a look back at the history of the courtesy of Ripples

small-scale but super successful Ustinov Studio

61 BOOKS Vicariously stay in the majestic hotels of the

world with Nic Bottomley’s latest reading recs

food&DRINK

62 RESTAURANT Italian restaurant De Gustibus

serves us a pink pasta dish worthy of all three courses

67 TAKE 5 Sam Shaw uncorks the ideas behind Wolf

Wine – his relaxed and refreshing local wine outlet

68 Food & DrINK news A rare rioja goes to auction

at The Herschel Museum; extra AA rosettes for The White Horse Inn; terrace dining at The Scallop Shell

shopping

34 INDIES Explore and support Bath’s local shops 73 intro Celebrate sparkle and imperfections with

artist Sonya Rothwell’s diamond-inspired collection

74 editor’s choice Viva la fiesta – we handpick an

courtesy of Portman Bath

array of vibrant buys inspired by the Bath Carnival

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Issue 369 / 6 – 20 July 2018

LIFESTYLE

106 lives Author of two bestsellers Hannah Richell

talks living in Bradford on Avon, twisty and emotional tales, and what she’d change if she owned Bath

Business

79 business insider Who’s moving, shaking,

inventing and innovating this issue?

Property

89 BATHROOMS Gleam our advice before your next

bathroom makeover, and make it a real design splash

94 GARDENS Take a stroll around the special but little-

known gardens that are right on our doorstep

97 showcase The gorgeous Granby House comes

with so many extras – an orangery, cinema room, wine cellar and gym – you might never want to leave

departments 11 spotlight 14 society 31 a man’s world

14 © Charlotte Emery

Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Editor Lauren Scott lauren.Scott@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 Editor’s Photo Bonnie Rose Contributors David Flatman, Matt Bielby Anna O’Callaghan, Nick Woodhouse and Nic Bottomley Group Advertising Manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Advertising Manager Justine Walker justine.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Account Manager Annabel North annabel.north@mediaclash.co.uk Sales Executive Polly Jackson polly.jackson@mediaclash. co.uk Production/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 Chief Executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@ mediaclash.co.uk Bath Life MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash. 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

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spotlight Bath Carnival

Outdoor Shakespeare

Song and magic Festival season is upon us, and that also means the return of open-air theatre – which you can enjoy in the grounds of Dyrham Park this summer. The Lord Chamberlain’s Men will be performing the spellbinding story of Shakespeare’s The Tempest on 3 and 4 August at the sublime National Trust property. The play, thought to be one of Shakespeare’s last, combines tragedy, romantic comedy and a heavy dusting of music and magic. The Lord Chamberlain’s Men are one of the UK’s premier open-air touring theatre companies; with an allmale cast, in the open air and in full Elizabethan costume, they present authentic productions of Shakespeare’s plays as they would have been originally performed. For the last few years, these outdoor shows have been sellouts, so capacity has been increased for this summer. Grab a ticket quick (they start at £9.50), bring a picnic, settle back and let yourself be enchanted by such stuff as dreams are made on. For more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

This year’s Bath Carnival is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to see the city transformed by colour, movement and music. The stage is set and the streets are being prepared for the huge free spectacle on 21 July. The theme for the vibrant annual event is ‘Carnival Culture’, and this year the procession will be a musical extravaganza (or so we’ve been told), with over 200 Samba drummers, up-tempo New Orleans-style brass bands and steel pan band floats. Running from 3pm – 5.30pm, hundreds of community groups are currently rehearsing hard for their collaborative performance, which will fuse Afro-Brazilian dance styles alongside professional dancers. There’ll also be stilt walkers and mini sound systems to add to the tropical street party atmosphere. A Party in the Park will be taking place at Sydney Gardens all day (10am – 10pm), featuring

Theatre as you like it – outside

Bath’s biggest party world music, a hidden Chill Field and kids’ area. A week before the festival day itself, between 16 – 20 July, free drop-in workshops (open to anyone and everyone) are being held at Green Park Station. Locals are invited to join the Carnival’s team of artists and add the final touches to the enormous collection of costumes, puppets, structures and installations for the final event. “Each evening we’ll be hosting a specific carnival arts workshop in dance, costume or drumming, but, with limited spaces available, you need to signup through the website ASAP,” says organiser Stuart Matson. There’s still time to register to be part of the carnival culture; to join the procession, hire a costume or just volunteer at the energetic event. For more: www.bathcarnival.co.uk

Shake your tail feathers at the Carnival

Theatre Royal

Royal meet

HRH visiting the egg in 2009

Royal honour has been renewed for the Theatre Royal Bath, as Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall has announced she’ll be extending her Patronage for another term. Paul Heal is chairman of the Theatre Royal Bath, and spoke of his great pride at the royal nod, “The Duchess is a keen supporter of the arts and we are thrilled to announce her continued support, as the team work to build on the impressive achievements of Bath’s historic theatre.” In 2009, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall helped launch a fundraising appeal for the Theatre Royal’s first major refurbishment of the Main House for 30 years. Her patronage will help support all of the theatre’s endeavours, and hopefully safeguard its future for years to come. For more: www.theatreroyal.co.uk

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spotlight Fire up your muscles for Dragon Boat Racing

Boat race

CALLING ALL DRAGONS

After a hugely successful event last year, the Bath Dragon Boat Challenge is back, bigger and even better for 2018, and will take place on 9 September. Get a team together, have fun and raise money for one of two amazing charities. So what’s involved? “Crews of up to 11 people sit in pairs in large canoe-like vessels fitted with ornately carved dragons’ heads and tails,” explains this year’s organiser, Simon Scott. “They paddle to compete in timed races on the Bath Riverside,” “It doesn’t matter about fitness, ability, or previous canoe-type experience. Dragon Boat Racing is an allinclusive event, with the primary aim of raising money by having fun and messing around on the water.” Many local companies from Bath took part last year, raising over £22,000. This year you can secure your boat for £500, which will go towards charities: MountainWay (which helps veterans with PTSD) and Designability (which aids those with long-term health conditions). Simon adds: “As well as raising funds for the community, it’s a great way for the family to come and spend the day.” For more: email dragon@mountainway.org

Liam serves up a strong return

Women’s institute

Modern women

If you thought that the Women’s Institute was only for ladies over a certain age, think again. Minerva WI Bath is a thoroughly modern day group, which meets every third Thursday of the month (usually at Bath’s Percy Centre) for planned activities, a catch up, and some form of food and drink. This year, the fun and social meets have featured ‘design your own tote bag’, mindfulness, a vintage shopping night at Yellow Shop in Bath, Zumba and a guest speaker on Superfoods. President Emma Davies says, “The WI strapline is ‘Inspiring Women’ and that’s certainly something we want to do, by offering educational and fun meetings for the modern woman and using the wonderful talent of Bath businesses for guest spots.” Interested in joining a taster session? Up next is a flower crowns craft night on 19 July, 7.30 – 9.30pm. For more: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: @MinervaWIBath

Sports talent

WIMBLEDON WILD CARD

Get involved in the modern Minerva WI meetings

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

Team Bath are renowned for their high performance sporting acamedy. Their latest triumph comes in the game of tennis, and player Liam Broady who was handed a wildcard into the main draw for the men’s singles and doubles at Wimbledon 2018. Liam (who is ranked 168th in the world) is coached by Dave Sammel and Ian MacDonald at the Sports Training Village. This year marks his third appearance at the championships, and by the time this issue hits print, we hope Liam will have already stormed through his first round... For more: www.teambath.com/tennis

SCENE T H E L AT E S T A DV E N T U R E S I N PA R T Y- GO I N G AC ROSS BAT H Cognisees have the next throw The Incredi-Boules and Edit. team go head to head

Going the distance Le Archus team

BEST OF THE BOULES

Bath Boules is something of an institution around these parts, bringing our community closer together for a fun-filled party, which raises great sums for local charities. Once more this year, the Boules tournament on 15 – 17 June was the highlight of Bath Boules Week, with teams turning up from Bath’s businesses and beyond in matching outfits and competitive spirit. For three days there was a closed-road street food market, along with bars, music, raffle, a bouncy castle, face painting and a certain je ne sais quoi only the Boules could bring. To all who played, participated (or just tucked into a street food snack), and to the main sponsors Royds Withy King, we raise a toast to raising money for good causes. Time to get practising your technique for next year… Continued until page 28. Photos on pages 14-15 by Andy Lloyd; www.andylloyd.photography

Marking le terrain

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Sports massages were on hand

Taking the point

SOCIETY

Down the line Boule one of three

In le throwing cercle

Un mÃ¨tre Put your Boules in the air

Success for team Incredi-Boules

Part of team OJO The Chase de Vere team

Taking a break for hay-bale lounging

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SOCIETY

PHOTOS BY ROY NEWPORT

Members of Bath League de Petanque

May the boules be with you...

Independent West House Association players A Watson Financial player gets in the swing of things

The Archus team

DoodleMaths calculate the next move Ready for a revolution?

The Revcontent team Boules supporters looking trĂ¨s chic

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The Cobb Farr team

SOCIETY

PHOTOS BY ROY NEWPORT

Fun in florals

Century Casino team

Richardson Swift players discuss tactics

The Sub 13 team Event director Steph Dodd

Henryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s players and friends The HomeLets Bath team

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

Mood music

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SOCIETY

PHOTOS BY BEN ROBINS

Gravity-defying skills Le Archus team let loose

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios compete

Le Grand Mascot â&#x20AC;&#x201C; le coq massif

Frequenting le bar The Andrew Brownsword Hotels team

What are the scores on the doors? Great British sun prevails

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

Furry friends can Boule, too Eat, drink and be merry

SOCIETY

PHOTOS BY LLOYD EVANS

Hard to walk pasta the Italian Food Hall stall

We Mexican’t decide what’s for lunch... Hog in a box from Smokey Joe’s

Welcome one, welcome all

From the Aaron Evans architects team Str-eat pizza

Come on, ref Tourists get a photo opp

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Street food of all flavours

Off-piste

SOCIETY

The Creative Collective, Startup winners Lucy Jane, Young Creative winner

Moon Architect + Builder, Architect and Building winners

Mytton Williams, Designer winners

CREATIVE BATH AWARDS BASH

On 14 June, the Creative Bath Awards and Summer Party took place in the heart of Bath’s Queen Square. Over 500 creatives from all walks of life came together to celebrate the talent and diversity of Bath, and creativity was most certainly the winner. Surrounded by entertainment at the Summer Party, the Awards were a celebration of the excellence Bath brings both locally and on a global scale. The evening was a feast for the senses, with creative wonder at every turn (think acrobats, Morris dancers and samba bands), and even the weather held out. Proceeds from the delicious food and drinks on oﬀer all went to the Bath Boules Trust, with every penny beneﬁting deserving Bath charities. Win-win. www.creativebathawards.org Photography by Sam at Soul Media; www.soul-media.co.uk

Bath Art Fair, Art winner Amy Barrett, Student winner

Kilter Theatre, Live Performance winners

New Old Friends, Writer winners

Rocketmakers, Innovation winner © IAN JEFFREYS AT SOMETHING BLUE PHOTOGRAPHY

And the results are in...

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SOCIETY

We like big stripes and we cannot lie What’s for dessert?

Flats takes a break from the barbie

Flats’ meaty ‘chef d’oeuvre’ The chef hat stays on out of the kicthen

FED BY FLATS

‘Your Wildest Friday Night Dinner Party!’ was a sit-down dinner event like no other at the Bath Boules this year – all in a dressed marquee, and featuring rugby star (and Bath Life columnist) David Flatman as executive chef. There were platters of gorgeous food from French Kitchen, ﬂowing bottles of wine and live feeds of the celeb cooking – he didn’t burn a thing. Along with interviews, rugby entertainment, and a live band and dancing afterwards, Flats’ celebrity barbecue was an unmissable (unless you weren’t there, of course) evening. The event was generously sponsored by Savills and all the meat was donated by Larkhall Butchers to maximise charity funds for the Bath Boules trust. Bon appétit, we say. Photos by Ben Robins; www.benrobinsphotography.com

The Friday night party gets underway

Front man for the 45s

The interview mic roams the tent Flats’ barbecue skills go down a treat

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Party band the 45s

SOCIETY

Greg Ingham kicks off the meal with an intro speech

Guests chatter among courses

SURPRISE IN THE SQUARE

A fungi soup, of sorts

Gordon gets tastebuds a-tingling

Crumbs magazine presents... Menu Gordon Jones in Queen Square. The award-winning chef concocted a sell-out foodie feast: a fourcourse surprise menu created exclusively for the event. It was also the ﬁrst time that chef Gordon Jones had brought his restaurant to town. Menu Gordon Jones donated all their food – dishes included a mushroom mousse soup and summer fruit pud – and time, to raise as much as possible for the Bath Boules Trust. To top it oﬀ, every aspect of the delicious meal was also eco-friendly and recyclable. Photos by Ben Robins; www.benrobinsphotography.com

Dough-nut run out of room for dessert

The Hawker Joinery team, sponsors of the evening

Clips from Glastonbury peppered the interview

Framing up for a marquee selfie Michael is presented with his hand-made pyramid award

EVE OF EAVIS

In what will forever be remembered as (possibly) just the best, most moving, and most inspirational mini-Glasto event of the Boules Week so far, an Evening with Eavis was held on 12 June in the centre of the city. The founder of Glastonbury Michael Eavis was talking in association with Creative Bath in the Boules marquee in Queen Square, and in this Glastofallow year, it was the nearest you’d get to being at the festival. It was a wonderful celebration of Michael and the festival, interspersed with music and clips, and a showing of the acclaimed Julien Temple Glastonbury ﬁlm. The ﬁnal highlight was a standing ovation for Michael at the end, as he was presented with a special handmade Glasto award – made from stone from Worthy Farm itself and commissioned from the artist who made last year’s Creative Bath Awards. 28 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Photos by Grant Pollard; www.grantpollardphotography.com

Annie Moss spotted in Boules-worthy striped attire

A Man’s World David Flatman

Hot dogs Flats’ hounds enjoy a sunbathe, and he’s not going to let anything spoil his old boys’ fun

“Walk on by, Postie, summer’s here and the lads are tanning”

think that the one of the postmen who delivers to my house might well have got back to base last week and described our interaction as a ‘run-in’. I definitely would not describe it as such, but I can just about see his point. It concerns my dogs and his safety, both of which we both were – and are – keen to protect. But it created an unusual situation. I was outside tending to the garden (picking up dog poo) and, due to the sunny weather, was fabulously topless. Well, just topless. As I listened to another quite brilliant Mick Herron audiobook on my nerdy Bluetooth headphones, something entered my peripheral vision. It was said postie. He was talking to me and, although I of course couldn’t hear him, I could see that he was walking a bit funny; kind of like one of those wildlife documentary presenters who, in a bid to snatch just a morsel of Sir David Attenborough’s market share, are forced to sneak up on potentially angry alpha gorillas in the bushes. “You ok, mate?” I offered, decauliflowering my slimline aural devices. “Are they here?” he asked, surprisingly firmly. “Who’s that then, Chief ?” “The dogs,” he replied. “The bloke that lives here’s always leaving his dogs out and they’re a nightmare.” Now, you thought I’d merely mentioned my glistening toplessness to put you off your supper, didn’t you? No, I mentioned it because – presumably due to my build and haircut – this chap assumed it couldn’t possibly be me who owned this non-football-hooliganlooking home. “They’d be my dogs, Chief,” was the sentence he probably didn’t want to hear, partly as it was beautifully awkward, but mainly as I concede that I do look potentially aggressive while sweating and conducting manual work.

I shan’t bore you with the entire conversation, but here’s the gist: my dogs will both run towards anyone who walks onto my drive. One of them will bark and snarl, though won’t bite. Postmen don’t like that, and neither would I, frankly. So, I was told in no uncertain terms that if the dogs are out he won’t come in with my post. My reply was what threw him: “Don’t blame you. If the gates are shut, the dogs are likely out. It’s sunny, it’s their garden, and you guys come at different times every day. I personally think it’s unreasonable to lock them away all day while we await our post. So feel free, should said gates be shut, to walk on by. No problem. I don’t want you to be scared, so you have my permission to keep the odd day’s post if you are. I understand entirely.” It was an odd standoff between two agreeing adults. I was – and am – on his side, but I just won’t ban my dogs from sunbathing in their old age. Eventually I’ll get a postbox installed, but for now I remain blissfully happy to miss the odd day of junk and bills for the sake of old Gus, the deaf, mainly blind bull terrier. I realise this might meet with some disapproving tuts, but I think everyone really ought to relax. Walk on by, Postie, summer’s here and the lads are tanning.

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

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Together & Sunspell

Independent Retailer Month

opposite, Find shelves of Parisian artisan homeware at Nam; � above, concept store East of Home is about buying less but buying well

he death of the independent shop – which, with online and chain shopping on the rise, could be a possibility in years to come – would be a disaster for Bath. It’s the wonderful array of small businesses which help make our city vibrate with creativity, so read on to discover the unusual, one-off and eclectic items – from camel saddle stools, to antique walking sticks made from human thigh bones – waiting to be discovered in the city, and meet the people who design, create and handpick these products themselves, especially for the Bath customer.

A bit of everything The Small Shop

Although it’s very little, you’ll be amazed at what you’ll find inside this shop of curiosities. “It was originally opened after my mother in law died and left a house full of interesting and bizarre items, and it has just carried on from there,” says Anna Woodhead, who runs the shop with the help of her partner, son and father in law. “We sell art, antiques, fossils and many interesting things.” Most unusual items: “Fossilised poo; a naturally mummified rat; a collar for an Indian sacred cow, with a compartment concealing a prayer scroll; and a Victorian medicine bottle with its original label. An elderly gentleman brought in his grandfather’s wooden leg, as he

“It’s about buying less but buying well”

was concerned it might be thrown away when he died, and a Victorian walking stick made from a human thigh bone.” Why go indie? “Everyone should shop at independents for the chance to pick up one-off, specialist finds. Also, it helps the environment by reducing the need for large delivery vehicles.” 11 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; www.thesmallshopbath.co.uk

East of Home

Owner Felicity Chuter works with sustainable, design-led brands to create pop-ups regularly in the concept store. This month, Indian clothing label Runaway Bicycle – for which every piece is made via a handloom – is being showcased. “My passion is for buying in a more thoughtful way,” she says. “It’s about buying less but buying well, not investing in fast fashion but taking the time to think about where and how things are made. I think of EoH more as an exhibition space; it’s a way to show people how amazing non high street shopping can be.” Why shop indie? “The way we shop has changed radically in the last decade. In a world that has moved online, we’ve seen a resurgence for physical shops, places where you can see, touch, smell and be inspired. It’s a more personal way of shopping.” 144 Walcot Street, Bath; www.eastofhome.com

Boho Medina

Handcrafted leather goods and Moroccan artisan items aplenty can be found at this city centre stall, run by Monya Hamdia and her husband; you’ll also find them at the Bath Artisan Market on the first Saturday of the month. Most popular items right now: Leather bags and backpacks, and camel saddle stools. Fun fact: The stall has to be built and taken apart every day. Why shop independent? “Products have become too manufactured

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Independent Retailer Month and generic on the high street, and the same trend-following styles are carried everywhere,” says Monya. “There’s a huge sense of satisfaction in knowing that you are one of the few people who have just purchased a certain item.” Find the stall next to Roman Baths Shop, Sundays – Wednesdays; www.bohomedina.com Here you’ll find unique gifts for all ages, as well as homeware, greetings cards, and locally made creations. Fun fact: Leak is in the converted public toilets in Larkhall. They still maintain a free public toilet on site for the community, which is open within shop hours and has a separate entrance. Stand-out items of the moment: Bamboo reusable coffee cups and Moroccan-inspired baskets and pots. Why go indie? “Independents offer a personal and sociable experience that chains are unable to give due to their size,” says Lucinda Niel, who owns the shop with long-time friend Kirstie Clarke. “Shopping independently supports the local community, helping to keep it strong. We stock around 15 local makers’ products, again helping to create community bonds and inspire shoppers.” Why should keen online shoppers visit you instead?

“We provide a fun and interactive experience that you don’t get from online shopping. You can smell the candles, touch the plants, feel the products and chat to the lovely locals.” 3 Larkhall Square, Bath

Article

Lee Niel Photography

Leak

Visit the shop for artisanal home décor, own-made botanical candles, creative floristry and seasonal scents. You’ll find Leak in the converted public toilets in Larkhall, of all places Most popular items right now: Houseplants and ferns, and the first commercial range of Celadon Ceramics by a final year Bath Spa University student. What’s new: “We’ve just launched exclusive perfume brand Parterre, which features ingredients from their Dorset flower farm.” Why shop at independents? “For the expertise, the higher quality product offering, and for the social benefits of feeling part of the area in which you live. The mission at most chains is to have ever increasing profit margins to feed their corporate shareholders; with indies, the shareholders are the customers.” 3 Bartlett Street, Bath; www.articlebath.com

“Without independent shops, we would be poorer as a society”

Rossiters of Bath

At this family-owned lifestyle store, expect to see furniture, fashion, accessories, toys and gifts along with an interior design and a wedding list service. “It’s Bath’s answer to Liberty,” says co-owner Ann-Marie James. “It’s the four-floor lifestyle store flying the flag for independent retail in Bath. Circa 57 years and still winning national awards and attracting thousands of customers every year.” Most popular items right now: Picnic, garden, al fresco and outdoor ranges. “People are really embracing the ‘no excuse for single use’ responsible approach to eating and drinking on the go and we have selected the most attractive ranges of drinks bottles and ecofriendly cups in support of this.” What’s new: “We’re collaborating with Mulberry on a sofa collection; a range of House of Hackney accessories will be coming up soon; and we have just become the Bath stockists for Annie Sloan Chalk Paint.” Why should we shop in independents? “The shops should give people the feeling that they’ve discovered something special, as opposed to cloned styles at the retail giants. Our product edit is specifically tailored to the Bath customer, with no compromise. Also, shops enhance the aesthetic appeal of a neighbourhood, and, in turn, this will enhance the value of your property.” 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

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Homeware, furniture and electrics Homefront Interiors

Here you’ll find handpicked homeware, cards and prints from mainly local artists and makers, as well as furniture and accessories made from recycled or reclaimed materials, and vintage finds. Hot products: Eco-friendly chalk paint from Grand Illusions, and locally made cards and prints from Ruth Thorp Studio. Why buy indie? “Because you’re contributing to maintaining the diverse and interesting mix of shops available in the area,” says owner Vanessa Clark. “Without support, many of these small shops would simply close and the local high street would cease to be able to offer those special places where you can find something different or original.” 10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

Moss of Bath

A television and hi-fi retailer specialising in providing, installing and servicing bespoke home entertainment systems. “We offer a solutionbased sales model, selling a solution that solves the customer’s problem, rather than simply selling a product,” says Annie Moss, who runs the business with her husband, Tim. “A face-to-face interaction allows us to ask the right questions in order to determine exactly what the client needs. This reinforces why traditional retail is still the best platform.” Most popular items: “With a fantastic summer of sport ahead, the

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Independent Retailer Month most popular items are definitely the 2018 range of OLED/QLED 4K high-definition televisions.” Why shop at independents? “We aim to offer a level of service that delights the customer, builds loyalty and generates brand value. Providing exceptional service is our single most important core value and is at the centre of everything we do.” 45 St James’ Parade, Bath; www.mossofbath.co.uk

Silcox Son & Wicks

Described by many as a ‘rabbit warren’, this seven-floor, family-run shop offers furniture items including beds, sofas and accessories for the home. Fun fact: The business was founded in 1900 and has been trading from the same shop ever since. What’s new: The huge annual summer sale – in which everything in the store is reduced – is on until the end of August. Why chose indie? “It’s nice to know the people you buy from,” says co-owner Charlie Wicks. “Often customers will bring me ideas of things they want to buy, and I’ll see it at a show and buy it; this is a level of personal service that a chain is simply unable to achieve. Also, trying a bed or sofa before you buy it is amazing. A lot of online stores offer a money-back guarantee if you don’t like something. We think, why not try it first? Then you know you like it and you don’t have to mess around with getting it sent back.” 5-7 New Street, Bath; www.silcox.co.uk

Honey Willow’s owner designs and makes jewellery, from her kitchen table

Nām

Here you’ll find beautiful objects for the home, made by mainly Parisian artisans, alongside hand-poured scented candles, hand-rolled Japanese incense, and decorative antiques. Standout products: Astier de Villatte ceramics, made in Paris from black terracotta with a signature white glaze, which take around five months from order to delivery; and the perfume-scented candles from Villa Médicis. Feedback: “I love when this little shop is described as a room,” says owner Sharan Kaur. “It carries a sort of intimacy which often spills over to the wonderful people who walk through the door and the conversations we have about our products, their homes and lives.” Why shop independent? “They reflect the style and story of the owner – an almost tangible energy of love, passion and hard work. Without them we would be poorer as a society. Chains can sometimes feel robotic.” 22C New Bond Street, Bath; www.namstore.co.uk

The Bath Framer

Whether it be an oil painting, a piece of memorabilia or an object, this business provides a bespoke personal framing service to enhance and safeguard your items and art for years to come. Most popular items: “Framing-wise, our slim, coloured frames are very popular at the moment,” says owner Kelly Ann Perry. “They are bold and fun, but the colour and finish on the wood is quite soft, so they don’t overwhelm an artwork. In the shop, the Blackwing pencils are always popular and are extremely satisfying to use.”

“Our product edit is specifically tailored to the Bath customer, with no compromise”

Fun fact: “A ghost sign is painted onto the stonework above the shop,

which reads: The Walcot Fruit & Potato Stores, so once upon a time, that’s what the shop would have been used for.” How do you inspire people to shop at independents? “We support the ‘Just a Card’ campaign, which encourages people to value and support independent shops, artists and makers by reinforcing the message that all purchases, however small – even ‘just a card’ – are vital to the prosperity and survival of small businesses. Without independents, our city would be soulless.” 6 & 7 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; www.thebathpictureframer.co.uk

Honey Willow

At the moment, the Bath-based jewellery business is online only, but owner Rhiannon Hamilton is currently in the process of securing a premises in the city, so will be opening a retail venue at the end of summer. All of Honey Willow’s products are designed, handmade, packaged and dispatched by Rhiannon and her team, in Bath. “I still predominantly work from my kitchen table, at home in Widcombe,” she says. “We’re hoping to join Walcot Street very soon.” What to expect: Expressive jewellery that celebrates milestone events. “Our interlocking rings necklaces are our signature. We make them as milestone birthday necklaces, with a ring to celebrate each decade; we once made a 100th birthday necklace, with 10 rings for 10 decades.” Fun fact: The business is named after the owner’s daughters. Why is indie best? “Our customers very much appreciate that what they buy from us has been handmade just for them, in Bath.” www.honeywillow.com

Jody Cory Goldsmiths

Expect handmade designer jewellery here, alongside repairs, commissions and remodelling at the in-house workshop. What’s popular? “Remodelling sentimental jewellery is very popular,” says owner Jody Cory. “And one of the most popular designer ranges is Alex Monroe’s iconic Bee necklaces. One of our most eyecatching pieces is a stunning peacock feather necklace and earring set – 18ct white gold, set with chalcedony, green garnet and diamonds.” The building: “It is mentioned in a Jane Austen novel and it featured in the BBC series Pie in the Sky.” 9 Abbey Churchyard, Bath; www.jodycory.co.uk

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The Framing Workshop has been trading as an independent family run business on Walcot Street for over 28 years. We treasure you, our client, and spend time helping you to find the best way to display and protect your cherished objects, artworks and memorabilia. Creativity and respect for each artwork are core to what we do. Every picture tells a story. Come and share yours.

80 WALCOT STREET, BATH, BA1 5BD | TEL: 01225 482748 www.theframingworkshop.com framing@theframingworkshop.com

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INDEPENDENT RETAILER MONTH

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT, Parterre

fragrances at Article; a real skull from The Small Shop; House of Hackney cobra lampstand from Rossiters; bee cushion from Rossiters; Lawlita bangle

AWAX UK

The couple-run business’s focus is on handmade and sustainably produced leather and canvas bags, aprons and accessories. There’s no physical shop yet, but you’ll often see the products at local markets, and online. “Our story goes back to when we, as a couple, were living in Argentina and met an incredible artisan bag business owner in an independent market in Buenos Aires,” says Sophie Wilson, who owns the business with partner Francisco Cavill. “We fell in love with the product, the idea, the passion that he put into each bag, and we thought it was time to bring his products to the European market. Our business is based on a fair-trade relationship and connects two continents and two stories.” Why should we all shop at independents? “To support Bath’s charming independent scene and prevent losing it in the future.” www.awaxuk.com

Broad Street Studio

Come here for high-end body piercings and designer body jewellery. “One of the most fun parts of being a piercer is the changing trends,” says owner Mike Hill. “It always keeps what we do fresh and exciting.” What’s hot: “At the moment, we’re doing a lot of daith and septum piercings; the two piercings that never seem to go out of fashion would be helix and nostril.” Standout products: Solid gold and Swarovski crystal body jewellery. Why shop indie? “Independents are the heart of this city. When I moved to Bath, the biggest draw was the vast array of independent shops, salons, restaurants and cafés. You name it, Bath had it. It makes me sad to have seen so many of my peers have to close during the time I’ve been here, so please support them.” 26 Broad Street, Bath; www.broadstreetstudio.co.uk

Lawlita

This new indie business oﬀers silver jewellery, including simple stacking bands, rings, stud earrings, and bangles – all handmade by owner Kate Lawley at her little studio in Box. At the moment, the business is online only, but Kate is planning to launch her ranges in local boutiques soon. Most popular: “Our mix-and-match ball and bar studs and the triangle or knot rings are favourites,” says Kate, who set up the business after completing a jewellery-making course at Bath College last year. Why go indie? “Smaller independents have more personality and add variety; creating my own pieces certainly allows me to appreciate the time and hard work that goes into handmade items and understand the naturally higher price tag.” www.lawlitainspired.com

Number Twenty Six Hair

The hair salon, which opened in March, specialises in creative cuts and colours, and head stylist Katy Vass has over 12 years’ experience managing and working in top salons.

“They travel to tea plantations all over the world to experience tea production ﬁrst hand” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 41

Independent Retailer Month Flock Bath

Owner Marcus Warden opened a women’s fashion and accessories store after years of travelling, and now imports clothing and accessories from as far as Asia, Africa and Italy. What’s hot? “Our Ruby Shoo vintage styled shoes and a lovely colour range of linen dresses and tunics are popular,” says Marcus. “Our printed cardigans and jumpers are designed in-house and are great sellers.” Fun fact: “Our shop dates back to Georgian days,” says Marcus. “Originally a jewellery shop, we still have the original cooking range still in place in the cellar.” Why are independent shops important? They are the lifeblood of the city; chains lack atmosphere and soul. While the internet has its place, people are realising the importance of maintaining a healthy city centre. Social interaction and a great customer experience cannot be found online.” 12-13 The Corridor, Bath; www.flockbath.co.uk

Sisi & May

The women’s clothing and accessories boutique stocks unique labels sourced from around the world. What’s popular? “The Dea Kudibal silk range is always a favourite,” says owner Emma Mandell-Lynn. “And the Ibiza Goddess dress is a standout product.” What do you love about indies? “They keep the high street interesting, providing inspiration and exclusivity, keeping things current and fresh and exciting. I’d recommend to anyone buying from chains to come and buy from independents who work hard to curate a handpicked collection of beautiful pieces that are a delight to experience first hand.” 9a Bartlett Street, Bath; www.sisiandmay.com

Portman Bath

Here you’ll find Italian leather jackets designed in-house, as well as fashion and Italian handbag collections, and the Nickie Portman handmade collection of jewellery above, Homefront Interiors specialise in vintage finds and accessories made from recycled materials; which is designed using semi precious stones and fresh opposite, clockwise from top left, An AWAX UK handmade leather bag; Broad Street Studio body water pearls. jewellery; The Small Shop’s diverse offering What’s popular: “Our Milano leather jackets in exciting colours, such as orange, yellow, olive, white, turquoise and red,” says owner Nickie Portman. Most popular services: Low-maintenance subtle colour to enhance the face shape, as well as hair tinsel, braid updos, and beard styling. Did you know: They supply sizes from 4 – 24 and can make special orders, as they manufacture their own collection. What’s new: In the coming months, they’ll be looking to open seven days a week. Fun fact: “We have recently had Gok Wan contact us to ask us to participate in a fashion event. We are also launching Portman London Why should people shop in independents? “Local shopping is a UK which is very exciting – launched by my daughter, Jess Portman.” much nicer experience and doesn’t have to be expensive. Shop around 28 Milsom Street, Bath; www.portmanbath.co.uk and you can find such a vast range offered, especially in Bath. First Floor, 26 Broad Street, Bath; www.26hair.co.uk

Radiance Wellbeing

You’ll discover a complete range of holistic therapies, facial, massage, and body treatments at this couple-run business, owned by Roger Morrad and Emma Hopwood. “We’re the only couple who own and operate this type of business in Bath, with both of us involved in the delivery of treatments,” says Roger. Fun fact: The building is 480 years old. What’s popular: The Radiance Refresh Collection – an organic, vegan, range – designed by the owners. What else? The official company secretary is a springer spaniel called Cadbury. He accepts tickles as currency. Why shop indie? “Independents have a mix of head and heart. We’ll make decisions that are the right thing to do – sometimes not the most profitable.” 2 New Bond Street Place, Bath; www.radiancewellbeing.co.uk

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

kids

Spotty Herberts

At this shop for children, discover unisex clothing for 0 –10-years-olds, all chosen for their quality and dedication to ethical and sustainable production, alongside clever toys and accessories. Most popular? “Sonny Angels just fly out the door,” says owner Kate Austin. “They are tiny Japanese collectable dolls. New for SS18 is Swedish clothing brand Mini Rodini. Created by an illustrator

“You’ll be amazed at what you’ll find inside this shop of curiosities”

Chris Wakefield

indies

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

Independent Retailer Month Tasting Room

A fine wine and spirit merchant – offering tutored tastings – with a café/bar specialising in boutique and artisan produce. Most popular items: Gin and Italian wine. What’s on: A tequila and mezcal tasting on 12 July; and a masterclass of gins, vermouth and spirits on 19 July. Why go indie? “You’ll get personal service to find the exact product you need, either as a present or for your own personal enjoyment,” says owner Will Baber. “By visiting local shops, you’re able to obtain the expertise of the business, and, in our case, be able to taste the product before you purchase.” Tasting Room, 6 Green Street; www.tastingroom.co.uk

Artistic creations Meticulous Ink

This Bea Baranowska Illustration features shops on London Road, Bath

The fine stationer and letterpress printer offers their own brand of stationery alongside design and print services. “Bespoke printing gives us our time to shine,” says founder Athena Cauley-Yu. “We work closely with clients to create unique and rather beautiful invitations.” Interesting fact: Each of their Heidelberg printing presses weighs over a ton. To get the presses into the building, they had to dismantle them and cut a block out of the door frame. What’s new: They are creating new calligraphy and hand-lettering kits, which are being launched this summer. Why go indie? “They are generally more interesting. I really like that you can get to know the owners and employees, and they get to know you, too. A tactile experience is key for us; we print with texture, so a hands-on offering is essential.” 134 Walcot Street, Bath; www.meticulousink.com

Flamingo

as ‘a tribute to all children’, this is a brand that is setting an example and leading the way in thoughtful production. Their collections are surprising, uplifting, funny and immensely appealing to children and adults alike.” Why shop at indies? “They bring a town to life. They are destinations, they create memorable experiences and they make marks on your mental maps.” 5 Queen Street, Bath; www.spottyherberts.com

The art, card and gift shop offers unique work plus a bespoke service on artwork, cards and doormats. The majority of the offering is Bath-themed or features flamingos. What’s popular: The bespoke service to turn your photos into art. These artworks are designed and made by Amanda Brown – who owns the business alongside her husband, Simon – and are covered in resin to give a high-gloss finish. What do indies offer? “Originality and individuality,” says Amanda. “The great thing about them is they are run by people, not boards.” Flamingo, 7 Widcombe Parade, Bath; www.flamingobath.co.uk

Food and drink

Bea Baranowska Illustration

Teahouse Emporium

Run by married couple Tim and Lenka Stoneham, the shop sells over 160 loose-leaf teas and herbal tisanes, freshly roasted coffees, and accessories – including bone china mugs, created by Tim. Most popular products: The Assam Mangalam black tea from India, as well as turmeric and mandarin green tea, and new tea blends created by Lenka exclusively for the Teahouse. What else? Every year, Tim and Lenka travel to tea plantations all over the world to experience tea production first hand. Lenka then shares her knowledge in monthly tea-tasting workshops. Why shop here? “You’ll experience our teas for yourself, see the quality and smell the freshness,” says Lenka. “We are also happy for you to fill up your own tea tins – so, for the modern eco-conscious person, we are the place to come for tea! 22a New Bond Street, Bath; www.teahouseemporium.co.uk 44 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Bath-based Bea Baranowska’s colourful and charming illustrations become cards, prints and other products, all themed around wildlife, architecture and the natural world. “I work from my cottage studio just outside Bath,” she says. “It’s organised chaos, with all my market materials kept in there, too.” The shop is primarily online, but you’ll regularly see Bea’s items at both the Bath Artisan Market and the Frome Independent. What’s popular: “The print that sells best is one featuring my whale illustration, which has found its way into homes as far as the USA. I offer bespoke illustrations of wedding venues which have also been popular; people love to have a one-of-a kind gift for their special day.” Why would you encourage indie shopping? “There is a great story behind each product, whereas something mass-produced will often lack character and charm.” www.beabaranowska.com

clockwise, from top: A Yarn Story’s walls of wool; something fishy at Rostra Gallery; Nourish proves vegan food isn’t dull; Graham and Green shot glasses

Derryn Vr anch

Indie love Local independent shop owners spread the love and tell us about their favourite small businesses

“A Yarn Story has the most beautiful wool around, and Corkage and King William pub do incredible food.” Athena Cauley-Yu at Meticulous Ink “I like The Fig Store for homewares; Nourish for beautiful food; and Melanie Giles for hair and beauty.” Kelly Ann Perry at The Bath Framer

“Grace & Mabel, Little Lab, The Fine Cheese Co., and Picnic are my favourites.” Ann-Marie James at Rossiters of Bath “I love Mr B’s Emporium, Phylosophie, Noya’s Kitchen, and The Scallop Shell.” Sharan Kaur at Nam “We love the tapas at Pintxo; and I’m a regular at Zara Perry Hairdressing.” Amanda Brown at Flamingo “We love The Colombian Company for great coffee, and My Small World whenever we need a present for the little ones.” Sophie Wilson at AWAX UK “We regularly eat in Green Bird Cafe and Society Café, and we buy flowers at Flowers of Bath.” Annie Moss at Moss of Bath “Green Street House and The Thoughtful Bread Company are both great.” Will Baber at Tasting Room

“I get my coffee from The Bath Coffee Company, but anybody running an independent deserves a mention.” Charlie Wicks at Silcox Son & Wicks “I love to eat at Olé Tapas and pick up home pieces at Graham and Green.” Emma Mandell-Lynn at Sisi & May “We love Chez Dominique for a nice lunch; Grace & Ted for a new summer wardrobe; The Brow Place for obvious reasons; and Comins Tea for a morning brew.” Emma Hopwood at Radiance Wellbeing

and Larkhall Farm Shop.” Lucinda Niel at Leak

“I’m a big fan of Found, Number Three Hairdressing and Cafe Lucca.” Lucy Simon at Article

“Harvest the health food shop, and Rostra Gallery.” Bea Baranowska at Bea Baranowska Illustration

“My faves are The Hideout for their cocktails; and Bath Holistic for her massage skills.” Katy Vass at Number Twenty Six Hair

“Mokoko Coffee and Whole Bagel are fab.” Lenka Stoneham at Teahouse Emporium

Pete Helme Photogr aphy

“The best coffee in town is at Rosarios; there’s great Nepalese food at Yak Yeti Yak; and The Yellow Shop and the Bath Guildhall Market are other favourites.” Marcus Warden at Flock “Gardenalia, Verve, Old Bank Antiques, Avenida, Castle Farm Cafe, and Wild cafe.” Anna Woodhead at The Small Shop “We go to Larkhall Butchers, the new Beaufort bookshop, Ma Cuisine, Goodies Delicatessen,

“I love watching the dogs visit Pug & Puffin, and I’m a fan of The Suite nail and hair salon.” Jody Cory at Jody Cory Goldsmiths “Boho is fantastic, as is Cascara.” Kate Lawley at Lawlita “Widcombe Deli and The Cakery by day, and the White Hart and Ring O’Bells in the evening. The Pump Shed on the canal is a favourite spot for ice cream, and I’ve been going to Nick Brain Hairdressing for years.” n Rhiannon Hamilton at Honey Willow

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 45

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THE ARTS S N A P S H O T S O F B AT H ’ S C U LT U R A L L I F E

Cattle Paintings by Joanne Cope is on show between 17 – 29 July at 25 Milsom Street, Bath. For more: www.joannecope.com

HERE AND COW If you’re an animal lover, Joanne Cope’s new exhibition (displaying 20 paintings of bovine beauties) is sure to lighten your moo-d. Joanne is a local artist, having moved to Bath in 2006, but she was born in Auckland, and spent much of her early life immersed in rural environments. This is where the physical beauty of cattle – their colours and textures and contrast against the landscape – inspired her passion for painting. Joanne’s work emerges organically, and she often feels compelled to capture a particular animal once she’s seen it. “After I have considered the composition, I use coloured pencils, acrylics and watercolours to create working drawings on artists’ paper,” she says. She then scales up her sketches onto a full-size canvas, and combines fast-drying alkyd paints, traditional oils and colour glazes for the final painting. Most of the cattle are painted as close to life-size as possible, so you really get an idea of their size, strength and raw power. “Every year, I rent an empty retail space off B&NES (this year it’s at the top of Milsom Street),” she says. “I plan the layout and hang the show myself.” Joanne will be on hand to talk about her artworks for much of the exhibition. You can expect gentle paintings of cows set within abstractions of their natural habitats; the backgrounds of texture and tone enrich the beauty of the composition but don’t clutter it. “A painting is finished when I feel joy looking at it, and there are no areas left that I feel like I have to adjust,” she says.

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

What’s on 7 July – 5 August

NASS festival will be making a noise at the Bath & West Showground

exhibitions Until 15 July

the chemistry of bronze An exhibition that celebrates bronze sculptures and showcases the bronze process itself, with artefacts, tools, videos, pictures and demonstrations. Black Swan Arts, Frome; www.blackswanarts.org.uk

Until 30 July

A NEW HORIZON New painted works from Ben Lowe and Myles Oxenford are being shown together. The display is a range of landscapes, Cornish coasts and still-life compositions in oils. David Simon Contemporary; www.davidsimoncontemporary.com

Until 31 July

SUMMER EXHIBITION With an emphasis on the sultry summer, Emma Rose's newest

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

paintings zing with warm life – the highlight painting is Sunkissed. Her unique work is a mix of Indian inks and acrylics with gold, copper and silver leaf. Emma Rose Gallery; www.emmaroseartworks.com

exhibition includes limited edition prints, original paintings, sculpture, ceramics, papercut and jewellery – to suit all budgets. Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk

Until 2 August

A CELEBRATION OF FLOWERS Fabric designer Kaffe Fassett returns to Bath with a vibrant exhibition inspired by his love of flowers. An installation of 40 coloured quilts, needlepoints and large-scale works will transform the gallery. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

rps international photography exhibition Winning and shortlisted images on show from the Royal Photography Society’s 160th annual photography competition. A whole variety of genres will be covered, with cuttingedge prints being shown alongside traditional work. Art at the Heart of the RUH, Central Gallery; www.axlearts.com

Until 31 August

SUMMER EXHIBITION An annual showcase of works from Rostra Gallery’s most talented artists, including Helen Burgess, Clare Halifax and Glynn Macey. The

Until 2 September

Until 16 September

PRIZED POSSESSIONS Dutch 17-century paintings by some of the finest masters of the ‘Golden Age’ (from National Trust collections around the country) are displayed together for the first time. The collection includes a recently rediscovered self-portrait of

Rembrandt, along with local gems from Dyrham Park. £9/£10; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org.

Until 28 October

SIDE BY SIDE 2018 marks the 100th anniversary of America’s first major military engagement in the First World War. This exhibition uncovers the relationship between the US and Europe, as well as reflecting on those who went into battle and those who stayed at home. Various prices; The American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org

Until 28 October

THE BECKFORD WOMEN An exhibition that explores the lives, loves and loss of the women who influenced – and were influenced by – William Beckford. Various times and prices; Beckford’s Tower; www.beckfordstower.org.uk

what’s on Until 12 November

A quest for wellness Beijing-based artist Zhang Yanzi takes a look at healing and wellbeing from the Chinese tradition, with large-scale installations, paintings and more. It should appeal to those with a curiosity about the human body, the human condition, medicine and healing. The Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk

Until 1 January 2019

wonder women of space A free exhibition celebrating the wonder women who are changing the way we see the world and beyond. The museum talks to leading female astrophysicists, astronomers and engineers to find out what inspires them. Herschel Museum of Astronomy; www.herschelmuseum.org.uk above, Sunkissed at Emma Rose Gallery left, Natalie Merchant chooses Bath's Komedia for her latest tour below, Church Cove, Gunwallow by Myles Oxenford at David Simon Contemporary

17 – 29 July

CATTLE PAINTINGS Local artist Joanne Cope displays 20 of her most recent paintings, which are inspired by, and feature, the physical beauty of cattle. Each work has been lovingly rendered on a large-format canvas using traditional oils and colour glazes. 25 Milsom Street, Bath; www.joannecope.com For more, see previous page

Plays/Shows Until 7 July

DUSTY A new musical, premiering in Bath, which charts the life of one of Britain’s most successful and enduringly popular singers. The script comes from BAFTA-nominated writer Jonathan Harvey, and West End star Katherine Kingsley plays the lead role. Various times and prices; Main House; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Until 21 July

HENRY V Bristol’s most innovative theatre company, Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory, launch their brand new production. The intimate theatre space will make a thrilling venue in which to experience the drama of the Battle of Agincourt. Ben Hall stars as Henry V. Various times and prices; Ustinov Studio; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Until 30 July

EDINBURGH FRINGE PREVIEW SEASON Catch some of the very finest rising-star Edinburgh Fringe acts in Bath before they become household names. Comedians include Tony

Law, Phil Nichol, Bethany Black, Lucy Porter and Angela Barnes. £8; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

18 July – 4 August

AN IDEAL HUSBAND Edward Fox, Freddie Fox, Susan Hampshire, Nathaniel Parker, Frances Barber and Sally Bretton star in Oscar Wilde’s glittering comedy. Set in London in 1895, this drama about political corruption, blackmail, scandalloving journalists and the pitfalls of holding public figures to higher standards than the rest of us. Various times and prices; Main House, Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

31 July

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Chapterhouse Theatre Company has joined with Bath Racecourse to present Shakespeare’s best-loved romantic comedy. Be whisked away on a thrilling journey to the most magical of forests and meet star-crossed lovers, playful fairies and hilarious travelling players. 6pm; £10 – £46; Bath Racecourse; www.bath-racecourse.co.uk

3 – 4 August

THE TEMPEST Dyrham Park is hosting an open-air production of Shakespeare's The Tempest in its grounds. Touring company The Lord Chamberlain's Men will be performing the spellbinding story, which combines tragedy, romantic comedy and a heavy dusting of music and magic. 6.30pm; £9.50 – £16; Dyrham Park; www.nationaltrust.org.uk. For more, see page 11

Music Until 8 July

NASS FESTIVAL The UK’s only action sports and music festival, showcasing a diverse selection of acts across seven stages and international skate and BMX competitions. Line-up highlights include Run DMC and Dizzee Rascal, as well as many local street artists. From£39; Royal Bath & West Showground; www.nassfestival.com

Until 4 August

iford arts An internationally renowned opera and jazz festival held at an intimate venue where captivating opera performances and informal proms are performed in unique spaces.

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

What’s on This year will be its 25th anniversary. Various times and prices; Iford Manor, Iford, Bradford on Avon; www.ifordarts.org.uk

11 July

POP UP OPERA An innovative touring opera company, which aims to broaden the appeal of opera and to challenge the way opera is performed. Sit back and enjoy two one-act comedies in which actresses battle it out to be the prima donna, and a pair of lovers tease and test their feelings for each other. These gems showcase Mozart’s gorgeous music and sense of playfulness, with two lively and engaging stories to delight you either side of an interval. 7pm; £20; The Assembly Rooms; www.bathvenues.co.uk

16 July

NATALIE MERCHANT The American singer-songwriter brings her summer tour to Bath, more than three decades after her first UK concert with 10,000 Maniacs. This will be a unique opportunity to see the celebrated singer play towns and cities chosen by Natalie herself, and those not usually included on her tours. Her long-time guitarist Erik Della Penna joins, who has been playing with her for 20 years. 7.30pm; £32.50; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

20 July

KITTY MACFARLANE Kitty’s lyrics combine honest snapshots of everyday humanity with the bigger questions that connect minds and voices – all driven by her finger-picked guitar. The Somersetbased singer and songwriter has supported sets for Seth Lakeman, and recently appeared as a theme-tune on BBC Radio 4. 7.30pm; £12; Arts Cafe, Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

21 – 22 July

A BOUNDLESS SUMMER Concert-goers are invited to picnic among beautiful, rolling landscapes at the magnificent Bowood House, and enjoy the performances of legendary Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra on 21 July, with Katherine Jenkins performing on 22 July. Local bands will also be taking part, chosen from an exciting new competition called Boundless Breaking.Various times and prices; Bowood House, Chippenham; www.boundlesssummer.co.uk

3 August

CATFISH Not to be confused with Catfish and the Bottlemen, these British

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

Blues Award winners have carved a reputation for themselves as an excellent live band. They’ve got a phenomenal front man in 22-yearold guitarist and vocalist Matt Long, and will be performing original material from their new album Broken Man, which was entirely crowdfunded. 7.30pm; £10; Arts Cafe, Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

Family

20 July – 24 August

THE FANTASTICAL MULTIMEDIA POP-UP This project presents three zones to experience artistic, scientific, fun, thought-provoking and interactive encounters. Step in to the digital laboratory, find out how we’ll be using 3D printers in the future, become a character in a video game and be part of a live gaming experiment. Andrew Brownsword Gallery, The Edge; www.edgearts.org

21 July

BATH CARNIVAL Watch Bath’s streets come to life again with the sights and sounds of the Carnival – this year’s theme is carnival culture. As well as fantastic live bands, you’ll find food and drinks stalls and interactive workshops. Explore the colourful traditions and fascinating cultures behind three distinct styles of Carnival; Rio Carnival, The Caribbean Islands and New Orlean’s Mardi Gras. Around the city; www.bathcarnival.co.uk

Other Until 15 July

FROME FESTIVAL Frome’s biggest celebration of the arts for 17 years, with close to 200 events featuring an eclectic mix of opera, pop, choral, jazz and folk music, plus theatre, workshops, exhibitions, films, walks and talks. Highlights include the legendary Leo Sayer, JLS’s Aston Merrygold, comedian Tom Allen and singer Badly Drawn Boy. Various locations in Frome; www.fromefestival.co.uk

Until 31 August

torchlit summmer eves The historic Roman Baths will be staying open late (until 10pm) during the summer months. Expect the site to take on a magical atmosphere once the daylight fades and the flickering torches are lit around the Great Bath. Various times and prices (free

above, Urban arts and beats at NASS festival left, Jasper Fforde is interviewed at Bath Central United Reformed Church below, Catfish play the blues at Komedia

nick cudworth gallery

Getting Under My Skin Oil on canvas

JULY EXHIBITION

An exhibition of paintings and prints by Nick that reflect his interest in a variety of subjects including portraits, still life and landscape.

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

What’s on to Discovery Card Holders); The Roman Baths; www.romanbaths.co.uk

Until 10 September

minerva’s owls bath sculpture trail A public art sculpture trail of 100 individually decorated owl sculptures and a number of smaller owlets will be appearing around the city. Each will have a technological beacon integrated into them so that followers of the trail can find all the owls as well as learn all about the artists and projects that’ve been responsible for decorating them. Various locations; www.minervasowls.org

7 July

INDEPENDENCE DAY WEEKEND Time to celebrate the birth of a nation. Learn about life in 1776, and celebrate the glamour, glitz and razzmatazz of the USA. Normal admission applies. The American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org

7 July

YOGA TO OVERCOME CHALLENGES Bestselling author and yoga philosopher, Simon Haas, returns to Bath for a transformative yoga workshop, exploring how the teachings of yoga can be used to overcome anxiety and depression. Tickets include the class and an Ayurvedic lunch. 11.30pm – 3pm; £15; Priston Village Hall; www.simonhaas.com

11 July

Quiz for Book Lovers Know your Shakespeare from your Steinbeck? Pit your wits against fellow bibliophiles at the first ever Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights' charity quiz. Expect bookish questions aplenty and enjoy a burger and beer offer. The winning team members will get a three-month Mr B’s reading subscription, and all proceeds will go to Bath Welcomes Refugees. 7.30pm; £15; Boston Tea Party Alfred Street; www. mrbsemporium.com

18 July

AN EVENING WITH MATT HAIG How can we stay sane on a planet that makes us mad? After years of struggling with anxiety, best-selling author Matt Haig introduces his new book Notes on a Nervous Planet, a personal and vital look at how to feel happy, human and whole in the 21st century. Sure to be a fascinating and engaging talk. 8pm; £7 – £12.99; St Swithin's Church; www.toppingbooks.co.uk

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18 July

WILDLIFE WALK A special opportunity to see Prior Park in the early morning tranquillity, on a walk around the garden that explores nature through the season. Themes will include bird song, wildflowers, insects and fungi. 9am; £5; Prior Park Landscape Garden; www.nationaltrust.org.uk

19 July

FLOWER CROWNS CRAFT NIGHT with Minerva WI Every third Thursday of the month, the modern Minerva WI Bath group meet for planned activities and a catch up. This session will involve creating a beautiful flower crown. 7.30pm – 9.30pm; £4.50; The Percy Centre, Bath; for more, see page 12

26 July

Tim Parks on Consciousness Five years ago, in a chance conversation, author Tim Parks came across a radical new theory of consciousness that undercut our existing understanding. His new book Out of My Head tells the gripping, personal and often surprisingly funny story of his quest to discover more about this topic. Expect an eye-opening and insightful evening into how the mind works. 8pm; £7 – £16.99; Topping & Company Booksellers, Bath; www.toppingbooks.co.uk

27 July

V V Rouleaux's first birthday party The top trimmings shop is celebrating its first birthday with cake, fizz and craft workshops, plus a surprise gift for the first 20 customers. The modern haberdashery will be completely decorated for the occasion, and visitors can learn how to make tassels and ribbon roses from V V’s experts. 9.30am – 5.30pm; V V Rouleaux, Bath; www.vvrouleaux.com

31 July

a talk WITH JASPER FFORDE The king of inventive fiction and creator of the best-selling Thursday Next series is back with a brand new Ffordian world. Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights' staff chat to Jasper about his richly imagined new book Early Riser two days ahead of official publication, as well as the horrors of winter, genre blending and literary detectives. 7pm; £5; Bath Central United Reformed Church; www.mrbsemporium.com n

above, Crooked Crescent at the Rostra Gallery left, Tim Parks talks consciousness at Topping & Company Booksellers below, Kitty Macfarlane brings her folk fingerpickin’ to Bath

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the big interview

The film industry is notoriously difficult to get into, but one man who’s done it – and whose star is rising fast – is Bathbased Otto Bathurst. He’s made great TV, like Black Mirror and Peaky Blinders, and his first feature film is due later this year. “That first job in the industry is the hardest to get,” he says. “Once you’re in, though, it’s totally up to you how far your dedication and your commitment carries you…” Words by Matt Bielby Portraits by Anna Barclay www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 55

the big interview

tto Bathurst has directed plenty of TV – episodes of Teachers, Hustle, Black Mirror and the first few Peaky Blinders – and he’s just completed his first feature film, so you’re about to hear more about him. A bold reimagining of Robin Hood, it stars Jamie Dornan as Will Scarlet, Jamie Foxx as Little John, and Taron Egerton as Robin, and is out in November. To give aspiring film-makers a leg up, Otto’s involved in a number of initiatives. There’s a film festival called connect. film – this year it ran on 30 June – which brings together the South West and Wales industry. And then there’s the IMDb Script to Screen Awards, which he helps judge. Many people would love to work in film, but it can seem a closed shop…

Yes, and the whole film industry understands how hard it is to get in. So you can’t be too pushy, can’t ask too many questions or seek too much support. People understand you’re passionate, and really want the job – and that there are 20 other people right behind you! So try any route, and – if you know people who are already involved – knock on their doors. And make short films, too…?

Yes, make films, write scripts, do anything that gives you a reason to get into a film-maker’s office. Ultimately, filmmakers and scriptwriters – and this is really important to remember – are the product; without them there is no industry. So don’t be shy, and don’t allow the industry to bend you out of shape. How would you describe your own approach?

For me, it’s always a question of, what’s the point? What are we bringing to this story? It doesn’t have to be a heavy-handed thing, but story simply for story’s sake doesn’t interest me. I think of it as Trojan horse filmmaking. What truth can we reveal? A film has to be entertaining, because that’s how you get your audience – but, once you’ve got them, how do you inspire them? And how do you know if you’ve succeeded or not?

What I really like is watching the near-finished film with other people, as there’s something very strange that happens then. You feel like you are seeing it for the first time – and that can reveal all sorts of issues with the

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structure of the story. It puts you in a space where you suddenly go, ‘Oh my god, that makes no sense at all’.

Many people first heard of you through that Black Mirror episode with the Prime Minister and a pig…

Black Mirror was a really fun job, because it came to me as an out-and-out comedy – but we didn’t film it like that. Instead, we chose to play it straight, so it had resonance. We made it quickly, in just four months, and I enjoyed trying to bring the magic out in so little time. When we did our press screening for that episode, we got to the big moment of the public watching the Prime Minister and the pig on TV, and the room changed; everyone realised that they had a part to play in it.We have to take responsibility for the world we’ve created – we watch the news, we feed the social media beast… We are demanding the supply that we then get fed. There’s a story that you deliberately didn’t call ‘cut’, letting Rory Kinnear – the actor playing the PM – get perilously close to the business end of the pig…

the big interview

Oh, I’m not the sort of director who’d let the camera go on rolling longer than is necessary, or have actors do more than is needed. We all know that there are directors like that, however. The pig wandered off after the second take, once it had worked out where the food was! You famously directed the first episodes of Peaky Blinders, giving pre-war Brum a mythic glamour…

I had no interest in making a historically accurate drama, or in rewinding the clock and telling the audience what it was actually like in 1919. Instead, I was passionate that the story should feel as contemporary as possible, so it resonated with a modern audience. You’ve recently been filming your first big feature film, a new version of Robin Hood…

I’d never made a movie before, or a project of that scale. Would any other business be able to behave that irresponsibly, that carelessly, and with such rampant waste? It’s just an insane world of excess! For the first six months of pre-production, our script was very broken, but eventually – four weeks before we started filming – we managed to bring in a new writer. By then, the building blocks were in place – the sets had been built, and I’d planned all the set pieces – so we were rewriting huge swathes of the movie during filming. Then we got to the editing suite and re-jiggled it again.

Otto on the panel at Komedia for the IMDb Script to Screen Awards; his new imagining of Robin Hood arrives in cinemas on 21 November

How much did you feel you had to remain true to the spirit of these tales…?

When I first got offered the film, I turned it down. Why make another Robin Hood? But then I thought about it, and realised it wasn’t just a fairy tale about a man who stole gold from the rich and gave it to the poor. No, the reason the tale has stood for 800 years is because it resonates. A man – or woman – standing up to oppression and corruption is a story everyone wants to hear, and needed to be told, perhaps now more than ever. We see Robin returning from the war as a broken man, drinking and disillusioned as he realises he’d taken part in an unjust cause against his brothers, recognising that the Saracens are people like him. Marion, played by Eve Hewson, is key, as it is through her that Robin sees the truth. Tim Minchin’s version of Tuck is also an exciting revision; he’s a brilliantly smart and subversive man who sees the toxicity of the organisation he works for. And, in Ben Mendelsohn’s Sheriff of Nottingham, it is not hard to recognise many of our current world leaders. So each of us could become a Robin Hood?

He had no special powers; he was just a man who, inspired by the vision, wisdom and strength of an extraordinary woman, saw beyond his own bubble and realised the scale of abuse of the people by the ruling powers and organised religions. And so, with the support of others, he decided to do something about it. It’s not hard to see the similarities to the world we live in. This was why we consciously decided to mess with historical accuracy, and uproot it from a specific time period. We needed a modern audience to recognise this world, so the clothes, design and action all – very intentionally – have modern flavours to them. It’s not meant to wind back time; this is a film that delivers a whole lot of fun, and also asks a few questions about where we are at.

“You mention Bath and people think of Jane Austen. Unless you are making a show like that, film companies tend not to consider it”

You’re involved in the IMDb Script to Screen Awards. How can people get involved?

The awards are organised with FilmBath, which runs a festival each November, and were held at Komedia in June. And they were amazing; choosing a winner from the five shortlisted scripts was a genuine challenge. The idea is simple, really: just ask the public to submit scripts, with the winner receiving £5,000 to make their film over the summer; they also get £1,000 of hire kit. This year’s winner was Theo Watkins from Bristol, who wrote a script called Service, set in a supermarket. He drew on his experiences working in one himself, but the story took us in a direction no one could have imagined. Along with my fellow panellists – Col Needham, the CEO of IMDb; Kate Leys, a script and story editor; and screenwriter and playwright Alice Birch – I was blown away by the standard of entries. Make sure you catch Theo’s finished film at November’s FilmBath Festival. Tell us a bit about you and Bath.

I like that you can be in the heart of the city one minute, and then – a few minutes later – out in the countryside. I love cooking for myself, but the one restaurant I do always go to is The Mint Room; the food is perfection. My favourite shop is probably Kitchens, though I’m also a big fan of Found. Finally, why isn’t Bath seen more in film and TV?

I’ve used Bath a couple of times, and it’s a great place to film. But you mention Bath to people and they always say it’s a lovely place, but immediately think of the Georgian aspects and whole Jane Austen thing. Unless you’re making a show like that, film companies tend not consider it – though I think that’s changing. Not only is the Film Office here brilliant, but London is pricing itself out of the market. In the Robin Hood film, there’s only one tiny scene in the forest. We scanned all over Eastern Europe, looking for a big, mature forest, and finally settled on somewhere in France. Then, ironically, when I got back to Bath I went for a walk on Bathampton Downs and discovered the perfect location! n For more, www.connect.film; filmbath.org.uk

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ANNA O’CALLAGHAN THEATRE ABOVE: Ustinov Studio is small but perfectly formed; RIGHT: Sir Peter at his dramatic best

Set the scene

What was once a stable block is now the most successful small-scale producing theatre in the country. Here we take a look back at the history of the Ustinov Studio and its namesake, Sir Peter Ustinov

’ve worked at the Theatre Royal Bath long enough to remember the days when the buildings which we now call the Ustinov Studio were a stable block (but not quite long enough to remember horses actually being there). In the mid 1980s, plans were first mooted to convert the space into a studio theatre and that’s when the legendary actor, writer and raconteur, who gave his name to the theatre, got involved. In 1989, Sir Peter Ustinov travelled from his home in Switzerland to give the first ever performance of his unique one-man show to help raise funds for the project. An Evening with Peter Ustinov (soon to become Sir Peter) went on to be performed all over the world. I can still see him sitting on scaffolding in the nascent auditorium, surrounded by members of our youth theatre, chatting in his relaxed way. That first Ustinov Studio was little more than a black box accessed by a single staircase and with no dressing rooms, so performers had to run along the pavement, sometimes in the pouring rain, to get to the studio’s stage from the Main House. It was in 1997 – after further fundraising

“Performers had to run along the pavement, sometimes in the pouring rain, to get to the stage”

and a substantial gift from the National Lottery – that the Ustinov Studio was turned into the stylish state-of-the art facility it is today. Sir Peter returned to host a gala evening, A Grand Knight Out, Sir Peter Ustinov and Friends, with Tim Pigott-Smith and a host of glittering guests including Alan Bates, Dinsdale Landen, Frank Middlemass, Michael Denison and Dulcie Gray. A decorous beginning, perhaps, for what was to become such a force of exhilarating theatre. In 2011, Laurence Boswell became the Ustinov’s artistic director. Since then, every season seems to bring further extraordinary productions – thrilling and provocative, funny and heart-rending, from contemporary German plays to a French-Canadian season, from the ﬁn-de-siècle to the Spanish golden age. The Ustinov Studio is now the most successful small-scale producing theatre in the country and its deserved reputation has attracted leading directors and numerous wellknown performers to Bath. When Kenneth Cranham received the 2016 Olivier Award for Best Actor for his wonderful tour-de-force performance in Florian Zeller’s The Father, this show had begun in the Ustinov Studio. Laurence is currently reﬁning A Season of Contemporary American Drama for production in the Ustinov towards the end of this year and next spring. These are powerful, thought-provoking works written by men and women who combine humour with big ideas and emotions. I can’t wait to see them in performance. Before then, there’s the prospect of another production in the Ustinov, which I think is going to be something very special. Switzerland – great title – is an often hilarious psychological thriller written

by Australian playwright Joanna MurraySmith. The scenario is this: it’s 1995, and in the Swiss Alps the eminent novelist Patricia Highsmith lives life as a reclusive alcoholic with a penchant for cats, cigarettes and antique weaponry. She opens the door to an unexpected knock to find a young man who has been sent by her New York publisher to try to persuade the terrifying writer to deliver one final instalment of her best-selling series featuring master manipulator (the Talented Mr) Tom Ripley. But her unexpected guest isn’t quite what he seems, and a cat and mouse game of wit and words ensues. I’ve read the script for this (although not Patricia Highsmith’s novels… yet) and not only did it make me laugh out loud, it is exceptionally well written and genuinely gripping. You certainly don’t need to know anything about Highsmith – except that she will be played by the awardwinning Phyllis Logan, who is best known as unflappable housekeeper Mrs Hughes in Downton Abbey and who was last in Bath as Monica, the long suffering secretary in Noël Coward’s Present Laughter. It’s hard to think of a more contrasting role. Patricia Highsmith and Peter Ustinov were actually neighbours in the Swiss Alps. She visited his house in 1992 when the two of them were interviewed for German Vogue. Now Switzerland comes to Bath and reunites the two of them. I’d love to know what the illustrious duo made of the Ustinov Studio. I think they’d be overwhelmed. ■ Anna O’Callaghan, Marketing Manager, Theatre Royal Bath, Sawclose; 01225 448844; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

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w w w. t h e s u i t e b at h . c o . u k 01225

331231

@thesuitebath 35

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S t r e e t,

Bath,

BA 1

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NIC BOTTOMLEY BOOKS

Within the walls This week, the focus is on just two books, which allow you to explore and vicariously stay in the majestic hotels of the world

“It might leave you bereft when you close the ﬁnal page”

novel comes around once in a while which you can recommend with absolute confidence, knowing that the vast majority of readers will enjoy it and that many will come back to thank you for the recommendation. In other words, a reader’s joy and a bookseller’s dream. All the Light We Cannot See, by Anthony Doerr, was one such book; Any Human Heart, by William Boyd, was another – both fictitious but with mid 20th-century backdrops and characters that don’t leave you alone just because you’ve stopped reading them. And now there is the stupendous A Gentleman in Moscow, by Amor Towles, (Cornerstone, £8.99). Again, the setting is historical – but less than a century back as the novel begins a few years after the Russian Revolution. In the opening pages, things are looking bleak for our hero Count Alexander Rostov. It’s 1922 and he’s standing trial as an aristocrat and therefore very much a presumed enemy of the new state. However, a seemingly prorevolutionary poem that he had authored back in 1913 is cited in his defence and proves enough to commute a near certain death sentence to one of a life under house arrest. The house in question is Moscow’s grandest hotel, The Hotel Metropol, but when Count Rostov is led back there from the tribunal – under the clear understanding that he will be shot if he ever sets foot outside the building – he finds his capacious suite has been exchanged for a modest garret. The lengthy remainder of the novel follows Rostov’s incredibly rich and varied life, all lived within the walls of the hotel. We watch Rostov make unlikely connections and friendships – with the waiting staff of the Boyarsky (the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant) the barman of the Shalyapin cocktail bar, and most touchingly of all with the nine-year-old Nina who brings out the rebellious and inquisitive child in Rostov as they observe meetings from secret balconies and sneak into long-forgotten store-rooms together. The myriad of different rooms and spaces within the hotel make what should be a very limiting backdrop surprisingly enticing. Furthermore, thanks to the streams of guests coming through the revolving doors and connecting to one degree or another with Count Rostov, we surreptitiously get a window on the tumultuous changes going on in the Russia that

lies beyond the hotel’s doors. Some of society’s changes pass the Count by thanks to his very limited world, but others – like the egalitarian decision to remove all labels from all wines in the hotel’s famous cellars – hit him hard and make him wonder what is to become of the country he loves. In Count Rostov we have a hero of great depth and humanity and almost limitless reserves of charm. The humour in the book somehow owes comparison to Wodehouse at times – especially the scene in which Rostov finds himself secretly racing his young friend up the hotel’s many floors. But, in a way, that comparison does the book a disservice because while Rostov has the sly wit and engaging manner of a Wodehouse hero, there is none of the predictability or absurdity in the plot, and, in truth, the humour is just a small percentage of its lure. This book is also packed with emotion, with human and national drama, with love stories of many different types, with pathos and with twists in plot and scenes of high tension that you simply wouldn’t think possible of a novel entirely confined to a hotel. I read A Gentleman in Moscow as part of a 10-book spree whilst helping judge the Independent Bookshop Week Award – an award whose shortlist is selected by the nation’s indie bookshops. The others on the shortlist deserve some time too, but this book, which, needless to say, scooped the prize, is deserving of almost all of the limelight so I will save those others for another column. But where do you go after A Gentleman in Moscow? It’s one of those books that might leave you bereft when you close the final page. If that’s the case, then Rooms with a View by Adrian Mourby (Icon, £8.99) will allow you to extend your stay in the majestic hotels of the world. This book, subtitled The Secret Life of Grand Hotels gives a manager, bellhop, receptionist eye-view of legendary residences from Delhi’s Imperial Hotel to the Plaza in New York and Raffles in Singapore. This book adds credence to some of the odd goings-on and unlikely encounters that seemingly really do take place in these privileged places. Perhaps it’s not all in Mr Towles’ incredible imagination. 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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De Gustibus

You’ll find carefully poised, prettily plated comfort food with a modern twist at this independent Italian restaurant on Gay Street By Lisa Evans; photos by Paolo Ferla

t has always fascinated me to think about what age you suddenly start to worry about what other people think of you. One day you’re dressed as Cinderella, singing loudly in the supermarket, staring for uncomfortably long periods at anyone that catches your eye, and the next you want the floor to swallow you if you trip in the street or accidentally wear non-matching shoes to work, because someone definitely saw and is definitely laughing at you. The self-consciousness cloud descended upon me at Italian restaurant De Gustibus just recently, and I wanted to be four years old again (that’s my best guess at when the embarrassment switch flips) just so that I could order the same dish for starter, main and dessert. But, being an adult, I stuck to tiresome social norms.

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The dish in question was pink pasta – an apt colour for my inner child’s Disney princess – and I only ordered it as a small starter because, of course, before I’d tried it, I had no idea how good it would be. The worst thing is, the dish wasn’t even on the starter menu in the first place; it was a main that the chef was happy to offer me in a smaller portion if the heavily meatbased appetisers didn’t catch my (very vegetarian) eye. Allow me to daydream for a beat about said dish… The shock of cerise, silky spaghetti – which is homemade in the open kitchen, as all the pastas here are – is infused with fresh beetroot and is served simply, with a gorgonzola fondue sauce. It is both comforting and vivid, and the sweetness of the beetroot is complemented perfectly by the salty, creamy sauce which, although made of a strong

restaurant

blue cheese, is surprisingly mild, with just the slightest tang. This light and bright dish, paired with a crisp glass of fine-bubbled Italian champagne, is summer on a table for me, and come winter will be barrier to cold days and despondency (if it’s still on the menu, which it better be). Carbs and formaggio held hands and danced together, but they dashed away quickly, leaving a glass slipper behind for me to rediscover them one day soon. The end. Ok, ok, I’ll tell you about the other dishes if I have to (they were all great, by the way, I’m just bitter). The hubby orders prettily plated smoked seabass tartare to start; it’s arranged in a circular puck and is served with ginger mayo and a huge rice waffle, which is the consistency of a thin prawn cracker. We both decide on risotto for main. Mine comes with porcini mushrooms and truffle oil – a simple dish full of simple virtues – and his, a special for the day, is a thyme and parmesan version, topped with a long-cooked, boisterous lamb ragù. But, before that, a surprise dish is delivered – lasgana – which the Italian head chef and owner, Marco Palazzo, insists we try. It’s not your usual dense, saucy brick, it’s a cylindrical tower layered with beef and pork mince between crispy-at-the-edges pasta circles, with a grana padano crust, and béchamel at the side. There’s a modern twist on pretty much every dish here, including my dessert, which is a rich and satiating whimsy of a thing. The perfectly smooth chocolate sphere holds inside it a marbled treasure of mascarpone and espresso-soaked ladyfingers, so it’s essentially a tiramisu, or it could also be described as the word “bliss” fashioned from ingredients. His choice is the deconstructed Sicilian cannolo waffle with ricotta ice cream and orange and cinnamon jelly, which is decent too. This is imaginative, carefully sculpted food which still remains hearty and satisfying, and although they’ve only been open for nine months, the elegant and charming De Gustibus – in the building that was formerly Nonna’s Italian – is getting so busy that they’re currently decorating their lower floor as an overflow area. When you visit, just promise yourself that you’ll order whatever you want, and don’t pay attention to who’s watching. n

“Carbs and formaggio held hands and danced together”

Dining details De Gustibus, 39 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2NT; 01225 446768; www.degustibusbath.co.uk Prices Starters £7.50 – £10; pasta £11.75 – £14.95; main courses £8 – £23.50; dessert £4.50 – £8.50 Vegetarian choice There are several options on the main menu which you can have as starters, and many of the dishes can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request Wine The choice is simple and straightforward but the wines are chosen to complement the food and represent the dishes’ origin Service/ atmosphere Attentive/ elegant, comfortable and romantic

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

DINING IN BATH Bath Life’s selection of the best places to eat out in Bath and the surrounding area BRITISH THE BATH PRIORY Weston Road, Bath; 01225 331922; www.thebathpriory.co.uk Delicious fine dining overlooking the hotel's award-winning gardens CIRCUS RESTAURANT 34 Brock Street, Bath; 01225 466020; www.thecircusrestaurant.co.uk Voted number four in the UK in The Times's “20 secret restaurants that foodies love” CLIFTON SAUSAGE 5 Bladud Buildings, Bath; 01225 433633; www.cliftonsausage.co.uk Upmarket sausage and mash restaurant and bar, plus a beautiful terrace CORKAGE 132 Walcot St, Bath; 01225 422577 Chapel Row, Bath; 01225 423417 www.corkagebath.com Award-winning small plates restaurant and wine specialist THE DOWER HOUSE, ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL 16 Royal Crescent, Bath; 01225 823333; www.royalcrescent.co.uk/dining AA 3 rosette fine dining at one of Bath’s most iconic locations HENRY'S 4 Saville Row, Bath; 01225 780055; www.henrysrestaurantbath.com Imaginative modern dining offering a classic menu and also full vegetarian and vegan menus DAN MOON AT THE GAINSBOROUGH RESTAURANT Beau St, Bath; 01225 358888; www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk Creativity meets delicious food with this talented chef MENU GORDON JONES 2 Wellsway, Bath; 01225 480871; www.menugordonjones.co.uk Multi award-winning fine dining with a constantly changing surprise tasting menu THE OLIVE TREE RESTAURANT, THE QUEENSBERRY HOTEL Russell St, Bath; 01225 447928; www.thequeensberry.co.uk One of Bath’s longest established restaurants, overseen by Chris Cleghorn with 3 AA rosettes 64 MEDIACLASH.CO.UK

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

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

CAFÉS & COFFEE SHOPS

THE GARRICKS HEAD 7-8 St John's Rd, Bath; 01225 318368; www.garricksheadpub.com City centre pub and dining room next to the Theatre Royal Bath

CAFÉ LUCCA 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; 01225 335394; www.cafelucca.co.uk Stylish contemporary café situated at The Loft on Bartlett Street; offering a Mediterranean inspired menu with barista coffee and sumptuous homemade cakes DARCY’S 34 Gay St, Bath; 01225 425308 www.facebook.com/darcysbath Independent café/newsagent in Bath. Serving breakfast and lunch, coffee and cake daily GREEN BIRD CAFÉ 11 Margaret's Buildings, Bath; 01225 487846; www.greenbirdcafe.co.uk Independently-run café located between the Circus and Royal Crescent THE KINGSMEAD KITCHEN 1 Kingsmead St, Kingsmead Square, Bath; 01225 329002; www.fieldfireandfeast.co.uk Laid-back, modern café-bar open daily from 8am until 6pm for breakfast, brunch, lunch and tea using farm produce

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

GASTROPUBS GPT SMOKEHOUSE 44-45 Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 429509; www.gptbath.com 'Dude Food' menu cooked with an authentic handmade American hot smoker KING WILLIAM 36 Thomas St, Bath; 01225 428096; www.kingwilliampub.com Pub with an upstairs dining room serving a modern British menu based on West Country produce

THE HARE AND HOUNDS Lansdown Road, Avon, Bath; 01225 482682; www.hareandhoundsbath.com Airy, relaxed spot with modern British gastropub menu, extensive wine list and scenic outdoor area THE LOCKSBROOK INN 103 Locksbrook Rd, Bath; 01225 427119; www.thelocksbrookinn.com Canalside gastropub in Bath, open every day for drinks, brunch, coffee, lunch, evening meals and grazing in between THE MARLBOROUGH TAVERN 35 Marlborough Buildings; 01225 423731; www.marlborough-tavern.com Award-winning gastropub using seasonal local produce THE NEW INN 24 Monmouth Place, Bath; 01225 442944; www.newinnbath.co.uk Burgers and bar snacks with cask and craft ale and beers THE RICHMOND ARMS 7 Richmond Place, Bath; 01225 316725; www.therichmondarmsbath.com Hearty dishes with menu changing on a daily basis

INDIAN THE EASTERN EYE 8a Quiet St, Bath; 01225 422323; www.easterneye.com Classic traditional Bengali cuisine in a grand Georgian interior space THE MINT ROOM Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 446656; www.themintroom.co.uk Award-winning contemporary Indian fine dining

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ITALIAN CAFFÈ CARUSO 3 Trim Bridge, Bath; 01225 426735 www.caffecarusobath.co.uk Independent restaurant with authentic Italian dishes SOTTO SOTTO 10 North Parade, Bath 01225 330236; www.sottosotto.co.uk Classic Italian menu with a contemporary twist in candlelit vaulted cellars

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

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

TAPAS

STEAKHOUSES

THAI

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

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

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

TAPAS REVOLUTION 20A St Lawrence St, Bath; 01225 312917 www.tapasrevolution.com/bath Authentic Spanish tapas plus an outside terrace

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

OUTSIDE OF BATH BRITISH NO. 10 TEA GARDENS Avoncliff, Westwood, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 2HD; 01225 853361 www.avonclifftea.com An independent tea garden located next to the picturesque aqueduct at Avoncliff THE GARDEN 15-17 The Bridge, Chippenham, SN15 1HA 01249 465672; www.thegardenuk.co.uk Relaxed dining using British produce

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS LUCKNAM PARK Colerne, Wilts, SN14 8AZ 01225 742777; www.lucknampark.co.uk Michelin-starred fine dining at the renowned Park restaurant, and more informal dining at the stylish contemporary brasserie at this five star country house hotel WIDBROOK GRANGE HOTEL Trowbridge Road, Bradford on Avon BA15 1UH; 01225 864750; www.widbrookgrange.co.uk

Modern farmhouse cuisine, locally sourced and freshly prepared

GASTROPUBS TIMBRELL'S YARD 49 St Margaret's St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1DE; 01225 869492 timbrellsyard.com Timbrell's Yard is a rejuvenated Coaching Inn, in beautiful Bradford-On-Avon, Wiltshire, with excellent dining and luxurious accommodation THE GEORGE AT WOOLLEY 67 Woolley St, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1AQ; 01225 865650; www.thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk Lovingly refurbished gastropub from awardwinning team HOMEWOOD PARK Abbey Lane, Freshford, Bath BA2 7TB 01225 723731; www.homewoodpark. co.uk Luxury hotel with two rosette restaurant and spa

THE LONGS ARMS Upper South Wraxall, Wilts, BA15 2SB; 01225 864450; www.thelongsarms.com Award-winning modern British food and cask ales in country inn THE PEAR TREE INN Top Lane, Whitely, Wilts, SN12 8QX; 01225 704966; www.peartreewhitley.co.uk An elegant revamped country inn with an acclaimed restaurant and contemporary rustic-chic bedrooms THE WHEELWRIGHTS ARMS Church Lane, Monkton Combe, BA2 7HB 01225 722287; www.wheelwrightsarms.co.uk Pub featuring modern takes on British classics, plus understated, individually decorated guestrooms

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

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food & drink Wolf Wine celebrates the dreamers, the artists and the wine makers with flair. The independent wine shop based in a wooden hub at Green Park Station is bringing craft wines from all over the world to the centre of Bath...

Hey Sam. Tell us more about Wolf Wine… We’re a shop that specialises in high-quality small-production wines from around the world. We aim to make the world of wine more accessible while broadening people’s winey horizons. How long have you been in business? We had our second birthday party at the end of May – much wine and beer was consumed and a great time had by all.

Amongst the bottles at Green Park Station

take 5 If you’re not a wine connoisseur but want to broaden your horizons without snobbery, where do you go? Meet Sam Shaw – the owner of Wolf Wine, who’s on a journey to make wine more accessible

What wines do you stock? Our selection changes all the time. Once a line has sold out, that’s it until it comes back into the country or they make it again; if they make it again. Is it all sold by the bottle? There is a wine refill station where you can come and refill your bottle with high-quality table wine, just like they do in Europe. And we’ve just launched our bar nights every Friday, offering wine by the glass and bottle as well as craft beer on tap (our tap machine is my new favourite toy). So it isn’t just wine you sell? Nope. We have lots of beer, cider, spirits and even coffee, as well as Wolf Wine merch and a few other things, too. Where did the idea for Wolf Wine come from? I went into the wine trade straight out of uni; I received my qualifications but started to get bored of the world of UK wine. Every time I walked into a wine shop (looking the way I do) I’d get pointed towards the craft beer corner, or I’d get a disparaging look and be confronted with a selection that is the same in every other wine shop: boring. I wanted to create the sweetshop of wine shops – with zero snobbery and a collection that was akin to the ever-evolving myriad of craft beers.

How about the name? I’ve always had an affinity for wolves. And everyone likes a bit of alliteration... Green Park must be a great spot for the shop? It has its challenges, as does anywhere, but there are some great things happening here, and slowly but surely it’s becoming a destination and hub for some really cool businesses. How and where do you find your selection of wines? We use a host of different importers and distributors as well as going to the vineyards and wineries directly. We just saw your Wine and Grind event advertised. We’re intrigued… We have a great relationship with the girls at Girls Who Grind Coffee, which is an awesome new local roaster that exclusively sources their coffee from growers and others that support women in the coffee industry. We drink a lot of wine and a lot of coffee, so it was only logical to try and pair the two. We aimed to pair the flavour profiles of their single-origin coffees with a selection of our wines – it wasn’t scientific and we’d never done it before, but it was great fun and there were some very interesting results. We see you’ve got some regular tastings, too? We do at least one tasting at the shop each month – usually on the last Friday or Saturday. Each month has a different theme, and Wolf Wine has a very relaxed attitude. We want everyone to have fun and not to get distracted by long words or feel in any way intimidated. If you want to get technical, we’re always happy to geek out with you, but basically it’s just a lovely bunch of people drinking some great wine and maybe learning a bit in the process. What’s your favourite tipple of choice, then? That’s an impossible question – it depends on my mood. If pushed, I’d say my favourite grape variety is Pinot Noir... will that do? For more: www.wolfwine.co.uk

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food & drink news Listen to Bath’s seagulls and get lost in the coastal vibe…

OUTTA THIS WORLD The Herschel Museum of Astronomy is inviting

bids to own a rare and fruity Spanish wine: the Herschel-Planck Ontañón Rioja. This stylish bottle – said to have cherry and berryfruit undertones – was originally made to celebrate the launch of the Herschel and Planck space telescopes created by Leticia Perez Cuevas, the granddaughter of a famous Spanish winemaker. She went on to develop the world’s most powerful infrared telescope, and then asked her family to dedicate their Reserve 2004 vintage to the telescope’s successful launch in 2009. The Herschel Museum has located two of the last remaining bottles, and it’ll be auctioning them off to the general public and wine connoisseurs alike (to raise funds for conservation). If you’re interested in making a silent bid, you can do it online or on paper in the museum. Bids are being taken for the Herschel bottle, the Planck bottle, or both together. The auction closes on 24 December this year and the winning bidders will be notified in early 2019. For more: www.herschelmuseum.org.uk

FISH YOU WERE HERE If you can’t eat fish and chips by the seaside, where’s the next best place? Well, The Scallop Shell’s outdoor space isn’t a bad choice at all. The restaurant and seafood grill on Monmouth Place in Bath – which received its first AA Rosette earlier this year – is delighted to open its newly-finished bar and terrace. “If we’re full, our customers can sit, relax and have a drink in the comfortable surroundings of our first-floor bar,” says Garry Rosser, who is both chef and owner. “We have just introduced an extended drinks offering and a weekly changing cocktail, which is perfect for all the warmer weather we’ve been having.” The alfresco terrace, complete with nautical décor and a secluded feel, seats up to 22, and is already proving popular with diners. “It’s easy to imagine you’re by the coast rather than the centre of the city,” adds Garry. The terrace will be open until the end of British summertime and is covered and heated for those days when it’s not so warm.

For more: www.thescallopshell.co.uk

Grow the roses

The Herschel Reserva has been aging to perfection in oak barrels

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Achieving one AA Rosette is a huge achievement, but The White Horse Inn (restaurant) at Compton Bassett has just been bestowed with its second after a recent inspection by the AA. This isn’t the only cause for celebration, either, as the traditional pub has also retained a four Gold Star award for its bed and breakfast offerings, alongside continued recommendation in the Michelin Restaurant Guide. General manager Kristian Goodwin and head chef Roger Hawkshaw are (of course) delighted to have achieved this recognition. “Well done to our truly lovely and hard working team,” say the pair. “Super proud of them all. We are very excited for more changes coming to The White Horse Inn during 2018.” The White Horse dates back to the 1700s and became an Inn in the 1860s. Today, it’s a traditional pub at its best, and also one of the

last few remaining free houses in Wiltshire. With gardens and a paddock hosting its resident pets – pigs, sheep and geese – we’d say that the extra rosette is as good an excuse as any to visit the delightful country family dwelling for dining – and petting. For more: www.whitehorse-comptonbassett.co.uk

Just a short drive from Bath…

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Let Airsorted help pay for your summer holiday AIRSORTED is taking the hassle out of Airbnb hosting for Bath homeowners

ave you ever considered letting out your home on Airbnb while you’re on holiday to earn some extra income, but the thought of managing bookings, meeting guests and arranging the cleaning afterwards has put you off? Or, are you already hosting and hating the hassle of it? Then a management service could be the perfect solution. Airsorted, the world’s largest host management service, has opened a new South West office to bring its hassle-free hosting service to homeowners across the city making it even easier to generate extra income throughout the year – it could even cover the cost of your holidays and weekends away. Airsorted’s South West team directly handle the management of properties to provide a 24-hour hassle-free hosting solution. The team create and market listings on travel websites including Airbnb, Booking.com and HomeAway, provide hotel-quality linen for every guest,

Airsorted team: Sarah Shorrock, Will Caiger and Christina Sinclair

ensure the highest standard of cleaning, manage all guest communications and use their property management expertise to ensure the correct pricing strategy for every listing. Offering a 24/7 hosting platform, Airsorted amalgamates and services all bookings to a property on behalf of the owner for a small percentage of the property’s earnings. Airsorted’s Bristol City Manager, William Caiger says: “We are finding more and more people are renting out their homes when they’re not in use to help generate extra income and help fund their lifestyle. “A host’s involvement in the day-to-day running of their listed property is decided by the host themselves – we can be in touch as much or as little as they like, and our South West team are available 24/7 on our host support line. This commitment is why our hosts trust us to ensure their property is profitable and well-managed. We look forward to hearing from Bath homeowners who are looking to make some extra income on a flexible basis, and those looking for a consistent, manageable solution for their property portfolio.” If you are a Bath-based host already, or are new to home sharing and interested in hosting in Bath, Airsorted would love to hear from you. Call us or visit the website. ■

0117 325152 www.airsorted.co.uk/bath

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN AIRSORTED’S ‘HASSLE-FREE’ HOSTING SERVICE?

Listing creation – professional photography and search optimisation Price optimisation – specialised technology and local knowledge help us to set the perfect price Professional cleaning – arrangement of professional cleaning paid for by your staying guests Hotel quality linens – beds made to a hotel standard with towels and linen laundered offsite Guest vetting – a strict screening of guests using both online and offline verification checks 24 hr check-in – peace of mind for your guests as they can check-in anytime Account management – one point of contact for all your queries Property maintenance – highly skilled professionals on call Guest communications – prompt responses to your guests Replenishment – monitoring and restocking of necessary items

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SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

Crazy Diamond Giclée print, from £195 for a small size (16” x 16”) ranging to £1,095 for an extra large (40” x 40”). From Gallery Beautiful, The Courts, The Walk, Holt, Bradford On Avon; www.gallerybeautiful.com

FACE IS A PICTURE

From tuxedos and gowns to wallpaper and cushions, every design you see at Gallery Beautiful is created by owner and fine artist Sonya Rothwell. Her luxury art, fashion and interiors emporium showcases painted and limited-edition collections. This Crazy Diamond giclée print caught our eye especially. It weaves entangled figures with dancing lines and kaleidoscopic colour. “I strip my subjects bare, leaving behind only their essence,” says Sonya. “I love that only imperfect diamonds are colourful; inspired by phosphorescent people in my life that sparkle, Crazy Diamonds celebrates our imperfection, our darkness and light, our multifarious, complex, colourful and brilliant individuality. Amid our positivity, passion and exuberance there’s balance – our light is countered, after all there is a ‘dark side of the moon’. Human nature is complex and imperfect; we have many facets. To emphasis this equilibrium, I blended warm, soft hues with cold, acidic colours that merge, forming grey areas and blurred boundaries. The paint meanders like rivers forging their way, as we do. Melding tones collect in murky pools of dirty shades tinged with fluorescence and brilliant light.” Visits to the showroom, situated within the elegant drawing rooms of a stunning Grade-II listed National Trust manor house, are by appointment only.

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FLORAL HEADPIECE, £70 These made-toorder headpieces are created by local artist milliner Vashti Elvine Mayne at her diningroom table. As well as ﬂoral designs, popular headdresses include rockabilly, oriental, and mermaid styles From The Headonista, Larkhall, Bath; www. theheadonista.etsy.com

GLASS DOOR KNOBS, £2.95 EACH Dress up your wardrobes, cabinets or kitchen cupboards with these jewel-like glass door knobs From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www. grahamandgreen.co.uk

CARNIVAL COLOUR

Inspired by Bath Carnival – which will arrive in the city on 21 July – here we’ve hunted down local shops’ most vibrant buys

AQUARIUS OMBRE CRYSTAL BRACELET, £325 Based on the play of light reﬂected from the translucent surface of the sea at sunset, this Simon Harrison bracelet features marquise crystal stones to represent the rippled surface of the sea From Alexandra May, 23 Brock Street, Bath; www.alexandramay.com

CHICHIRIKA, £280 This eight-colour, varnished screen print was created by contemporary British artist Maria Rivans, who is known for her surrealism-meets-popart aesthetic suffused with vivid colour From Modern Artbuyer, 1 Cliffe Drive, Limpley Stoke, near Bath; www.modernartbuyer.com MARGUERITE BLOUSE, £149 With its open peplum sleeves, frilled neckline, floral details and eye-catching hue, this Baum und Pferdgarten blouse will put you in the mood to party From Grace & Mabel, 3 George Street, Bath; www.graceandmabel.co.uk

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ED’S CHOICE POM POM TASSEL, £4.95 Attach this 12cmlong tassel to your handbag or basket bag as a playful ﬁnishing touch, or use them as a colourful tie-backs on curtains From V V Rouleaux, 9 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath; www.vvrouleaux.coms

GLITTER LASHES, £7.95 A lifelong appreciation of wacky colours, sparkle and patterned loveliness, pushed Bath’s Robyn McBryde into founding her online venture. She hand-makes glittery false eyelashes and face gems and restores vintage clothing and accessories From viav (vintageisavirtue), Bath; www.vintageisavirtue.blogspot.com

LUMIERE PUMPS, £175 In blue striped patent, this ballerina pump is perfect for running around in, come rain or shine From Chanii B, 9 Milsom Place, Bath; www.chaniibshoes.com

RAINBOW NECKLACE, £72 This electroformed titanium rainbow quartz cluster was handmade by local maker Leah Jarosy at her home studio in Box. Her raw crystal jewellery designs are all one-oﬀs From Eden & After, Box, Wiltshire; www. edenandafter.etsy.com

CLARINS SOS PRIMER, £26.50 EACH Prime for perfection with this fresh-feeling, ﬂawless-eﬀect formula that brightens the complexion and boosts radiance From FrontlineStyle, 4 -5 Monmouth Street, Bath; www.frontlinestyle.co.uk

NAIL VARNISHES, £11 EACH Artistic Colour Revolution varnishes come in carnival-ready punchy, summery hues; perfect for complementing outﬁts if you’re not an accessories fan From Green Street House, 14 Green Street, Bath; www.greenstreethouse.co.uk

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A picturesque bridge crosses the canal at Bathampton. It was built for the horse and cart in 1805 – now 4,500+ vehicles cross it a day, many to avoid central Bath.

We need to raise £10k to take our community-led design for a new foot and cycle bridge through the Planning process.

Image – engineers

If your business has a corporate social responsibility fund, or you wish to make a private donation, please visit our website to learn more and get in touch. www.bathamptonconkercrossing.com

@conkercrossing E: Bathamptonconkercrossing@gmail.com

Building with integrity

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Feeling hot hot hot

You’ll find useful advice, tips and support at BATH VET SURGERIES

s we enjoy the warmer days during the spring and summer, we need to make sure we look after our pets to prevent problems such as overheating, heatstroke and flystrike.

DOGS

Any hot environment can cause heatstroke, but 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/poor coordination • Vomiting • Collapse Some types of dog are more prone to heatstroke, such as very old or young dogs, dogs with thick, heavy coats or dogs with very short flat faces like pugs and bulldog types. Dogs with certain diseases or on some types of medication are also more at risk.

CATS In spite of their reputation as desert animals, cats do not tolerate heat any better than people. Cats only pant or sweat through their foot pads in order 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 Rabbits and guinea pigs can also suffer from heatstroke due to their size and being unable to escape their hot hutches. 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. This is especially applicable for dogs with airway diseases and breeds with shortened faces (e.g., the Pug, Bulldog, Shi Tzu). Also, while traveling in cars, make sure that the dog is well ventilated by placing it 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 of the sides. Always seek veterinary attention if you have any concerns or worries that your pet has become overheated or is suffering from heatstroke, as help is always at hand. ■ – Words by Lisa Walters RVN of Chapel Vets

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

OUR CLINICS: • Rosemary Lodge Hospital Wellsway, Bath, BA2 5RL 01225 832521 • Bath Cat Clinic 4 Beaufort East, London Road, BA1 6QD 01225 312061 • Chapel Veterinary Surgery Forest Road, Melksham, SN12 7AA 01225 702427 • Marshfield Veterinary Surgery 57 High Street, Marshfield, SN14 8LR 01225 891171 • Oldfield Park Veterinary Surgery 4 Third Avenue, Oldfield Park, BA2 3NY 01225 423652 • Peasedown Veterinary Surgery, 46 Bath Road, Peasedown St John, BA2 8DL 01761 435673 • Saltford Veterinary Surgery 478B Bath Road, Saltford, BS31 3DJ 01225 872002 • Station Road Veterinary Surgery Lower Weston, BA1 3DY 01225 428921 • Park Road Vets 11 Park Road, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 1BX 0117 9339 933

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businessinsider b at h g e t s s e r i o u s

Quote of the issue

“being in Bath is part of our core DNA. this is our community”

Rocketmakers prepare to move to their new office, page 86

The Big Number

£50M

Gifting is big business, see below

Productive pair Bath couple Dom and Ali Beaven have grown their modern wedding gift list service to become the UK’s number one

above, Founders of Prezola Ali and Dom Beaven take time out for tea

aking on big high street retailers (and even bigger online giants) is no mean business feat, but that’s what Bath-based couple Dom and Ali Beaven have done with their premium wedding gift list site Prezola.com. Six years on from selling their beloved family home and Land Rover (and starting the company from their kitchen table) the entrepreueners have seen Prezola become the UK’s favourite gift list service – even bigger than John Lewis, which has dominated the lucrative market for decades. At Prezola, couples can create stylish, modern wedding gift lists, for family and friends to choose from. There are more than 50,000

products by 500 premium brands, including The White Company, Graham and Green and Jo Malone. More than 1M gifts have been sold so far, with designer items, quirkier options – such as a vinyl record by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong – and fun experience days. “Growth has come predominantly through recommendation as happy couples spread the word,” says Ali. The idea came in 2012 after Ali was struggling to compile an online present list and internet geek Dom realised there was a gap in the market. The wedding sector has moved on, but Prezola were one of the first e-commerce sites. “Challenging the market

dominance of retail giants such as John Lewis and Debenhams was not for the faint-hearted,” says Dom. Having gone from zero to £10M in five years, Prezola is predicted to grow by 50 per cent more this year, supported by a local team of 50, who are based at the firm’s headquarters in Bath, Somerset and a distribution centre in Wiltshire. The two have been married for 23 years, but each has different roles. Dom is CEO, and responsible for the commercial and tech side, while Ali is the creative director, in charge on product selection and promotion. “Ali focuses on consumers and ethics. We don’t use plastics, our packaging is 100 per cent recycled, and our warehouse is energy efficient,” Dom adds. What now for the dynamic duo? The Beaven’s plan to grow turnover to £50M in 2021. And Ali herself is nominated for PwC’s Private Business Woman of the Year. She jokes: “If all else fails, I think I deserve an award for working with my husband for this long.” The pairing does seem to be working... For more: www.prezola.com

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BUSINESS INSIDER FAR LEFT, Welcome to Walcot street; LEFT, Putting Ian in the picture

conservation and museum-quality products and techniques. Where does a job begin? It starts with the customer, listening to them, and creating ideas and options to guide them the to the best way to display their work. What was your first job? I cleaned cars at a large car dealership for around £79 a week.

ONE TO WATCH

IAN PITTMAN talks framing pictures, paintings, prints and many an interesting object... The Framing Workshop in Bath’s artisan quarter of Walcot Street has been helping customers to present and preserve their pictures and precious keepsakes for nearly 30 years. As a member of the Fine Art Trade Guild, you know their mix of machinery and handmade craftsmanship is up to the job. We talk to owner Ian to find out the bigger picture…

Hi there, Ian. Tell us more about The Framing Workshop... It’s as the name says. We have the skills and knowledge to take on any framing work, from a simple

“I HAVE BEEN DOING THIS FOR SO LONG, I HAD QUITE FORGOTTEN THERE WERE OTHER JOBS I COULD BE DOING...”

certificate for the office, to delicate fabrics framed for a museum. With over 800 frames, 120 mount boards and eight different glazing options, there is something in store to suit every job. With hand-finished painting, gilding and staining, we can create almost any frame style. How long have you been doing what you do? I have been a framer for 30 years – 23 of them spent here at the workshop in Bath. What services do you offer? From replacing a piece of broken glass to a full frame restoration, we frame anything. Just bring what you have to the workshop and we’ll find a way of framing it in a way that will give many years of pleasure. We never turn any job away. What unusual things have people asked you to frame? We’ve framed a tarantula skin and a carved grain of rice – it needed magnifying glass so that it could be seen. What makes you stand out from your competitors? Our experience and knowledge. We know how to frame and preserve works of art for the future with

If you could do any other job, what would it be? I have been doing this for so long now (and enjoying it) I had quite forgotten there were other jobs I could be doing. However, I did once think about being a cartographer… What are the best aspects of your daily job? Talking to the customers, hearing the stories behind their treasured items, then creating a frame so that it can be displayed and enjoyed for many years to come. What do you like best about working in Bath? It’s a beautiful city with a lot of interesting places and people. Even at its busiest, it’s not overwhelming. What are your business plans for the future? To keep doing what we do best, by making high-quality frames and looking to improve or add to our skills. We’re currently working on a range of bespoke marquetry frames. And your non-business plans… With four wonderful and lively children, the plan is to just enjoy life as it comes... www.theframingworkshop.com

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BUSINESS INSIDER

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

Attwood returns to Bath’s second row

BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY From networking breakfasts to invaluable evening courses, make a note of the courses and classes that will help your business flourish 11 JULY NETWORKING FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS Connect with other young and ambitious individuals with a keen interest in business. Find peer support to develop your start-up. 6.30pm; The Bath Brew House www.yena.co.uk 18 JULY BATH LIFE BUSINESS CLUB The chance to hear Jonathan Stapleton – general manager of The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa – share his insights into running one of Bath’s finest and most iconic establishments. As usual for the club, expect fresh thinking over a fine lunch. £60; 12pm; The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa www.bathlifebusinessclub.com

Rugby player Dave Attwood has been described as both a master of the set piece and arguably the best scrummaging second row in the country. Bath Rugby is delighted to welcome him back to the team for the 2018/19 season, in what will be his seventh season campaign in the Blue, Black and White (he has one year left on his contract at The Rec). The second rower has spent the last four months of the season on loan to French side Toulon, where he impressed many during his nine appearances for the three-time European Champions – both in the French Top14 league and the Champions Cup. The 31-year-old, who has previously represented his home team Bristol and Gloucester, has made 136 appearances for Bath. Todd Blackadder, director of rugby at the Club says, “We’re really looking forward to welcoming Dave

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back for pre-season training. He is a huge asset to the squad, and we’re excited to have him with us ready for the new season. “There were discussions with Toulon, but we always wanted to bring [Dave] back to Bath. He showed during his short stint there his qualities as a player, but we also know what leadership qualities he brings on and off the field, too. “Supporters know that, at his best, there aren’t many better players in his position”, Todd continues. “His return will be almost like a new signing for us. With the likes of Dave, Roko (Semesa Rokoduguni), Sam Underhill and Francois Louw all fit and raring to go, we go into the campaign in a great position.” Now that the former England lock has returned from his loan spell with Toulon, he’ll be joining up with the rest of the squad for training at Farleigh House. For more: www.bathrugby.com

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC

19 – 20 JULY RIBA ADVANCED CONSERVATION A two-day course for developing your conservation specialism, with an emphasis on conservation in practice, group discussions, exercises, and diverse case studies to demonstrate the full range of core skills needed. From £345; 10am; Location TBC www.architecture.com 20 JULY GDPR CPD GDPR requires every business to evolve the way it handles personal information, and this seminar will help you identify what the areas of risk are, and practical steps you will need to take to stay compliant. From £78; 10am; Widcombe Social Club www.eventbrite.co.uk 16 AUGUST STRATEGY AND BUSINESS By the end of this free workshop, you’ll have a clear business plan, a set of short-, medium- and long-term objectives and the confidence and motivation to move them forward. 9am – 5pm; Bath and County Club www.eventbrite.co.uk

Amanda Loran

FINE FINANCIER

Legal specialist Stone King is delighted to welcome Amanda Loran as the financial officer for its Bath offices in Queen Square. As the former finance director at Veale Wasbrough Vizards (another law firm with offices in Bristol and beyond) Amanda comes with 20 years of industry expertise. She’s already taken on responsibility for all aspects of Stone King’s financial management, which also means supporting its national growth. “Amanda’s experience speaks for itself and we are delighted to have her on board,” says Steven Greenwood, managing partner at Stone King. “At Stone King over recent years we have been gradually growing our presence nationally in an organic way, retaining our strong people-focused firm values and ethos. “Amanda will be invaluable in ensuring we maintain this growth in a sustainable way to offer our full range of specialist services across the country.”

TRAINEE TO TOP TECH DOG

One of the South West’s leading firms of accountants, Milsted Langdon (with offices in both Bath and Bristol), has re-appointed one of its former trainees as general director. Rober Rawle rejoins the practice after collecting more than 20 years’ experience in the industry. After starting in Milsted Langdon’s Taunton office in the mid-90s, he moved to Bishop Fleming in Bristol where he thrived and progressed. He’ll be bringing experience within the property, manufacturing and tech sectors, among others. “I am very excited to be working with the excellent team at Milsted Langdon again,” says Robert. “They continue to be a significant influence both in the region (of Bath and Bristol) and wider afield in our profession.”

business insider

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

Ashford Homes’ new HQ is in the making

all the hard work and investment overseas is really paying dividends.” Lovehoney even won the Queen’s Award For Enterprise a few years ago, due to their strong global growth, and this has only snowballed to their further success. “An endorsement from the palace really helps to gain recognition and sales outside the UK.” For more: www.lovehoney.co.uk

NEW HOME FOR HOMEBUILDERS

Carry on up the Avon…

GET UP, STAND UP

Bath’s first adventure company Original Wild has announced a raft of new events in and around the city centre this summer, all designed to get you active and outside. The activities include stand-up paddleboarding, raft-building, canoeing, kayaking, climbing and abseiling, as well as the Bath team challenge. “We’re passionate about enabling people to experience the outdoors,” says Kyle Worgan, director (and ex Royal Marine). “You can experience high-quality adventures led by outdoors experts – fun activities to do in Bath whether you are an individual, group or corporate team.” The Original Wild adventure experts provide a myriad of team training days or simply fun experiences. The company also offers First Aid at Work training, and is a keen supporter of – and activities provider to – charities such as the Bath Rugby Foundation. Using the latest equipment, the team doesn’t compromise on quality, safety (or fun), and plenty of keen locals and businesses have already enjoyed their first escapades paddling up the River Avon. Fancy having a go yourself ? Upcoming ‘Try Stand-up Paddleboarding’ evening sessions are being held on 18, 19 and 21 July, with many more dates to come. For more: www.originalwild.com

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GLOBAL GROWTH

Lovehoney might be a Bath-based firm, but you can now see their adult products all over the world thanks to a soar in overseas sales – up by 47 per cent last year to be exact. This huge rise has earned the firm a place on the Sunday Times list of the UK’s fastest growing exporters (ranked 103rd in the ninth annual HSBC International Track 200 table). Lovehoney has been busy launching its US, Australian, French and German websites, and has benefitted from the popularity of Fifty Shades of Grey, for which it holds the license of the official pleasure products. “It is wonderful to again make the Sunday Times list,” says Richard Longhurst, co-owner. “We have made international expansion a key element of our growth strategy and

Local award-winning developer Ashford Homes started out 25 years ago with just four people. Having grown to a 30-strong team, though, they’ve now outgrown their current Melksham building and are breaking ground with a purpose-built, state-ofthe-art new headquarters in Bradford on Avon. The company is known for building high-spec, high-quality homes, and the new premises certainly won’t disappoint. The contemporary building will be made traditionally using natural, locally sourced materials, but will incorporate some fancy technology, too – think photovoltaic solar panels on the roof, and air source heat pumps, to make for a very economic workspace. Inside, there’ll be doublestorey glazing, open-plan offices and a specialist sales suite. Ashford’s staff are excited to use the new facilities (especially the nonwork recreation areas), which feature a highly anticipated games room with gym equipment and, of course, shower facilities for the “athletes”. For more: www.ashford-homes.co.uk

Richard Longhurst and Neal Slateford

Enjoy monthly shopping at twilight

IN THE TWILIGHT ZONE

The streets of Bath are being brought to life this summer and autumn with a series of events that celebrate the city’s vibrant evening scene. The first Bath at Twilight was held on 21 June, and, following its success, it will be returning on the third Thursday of the month until October – why not pop along to the next one on 19 July? Bath at Twilight – which has been created by the brains behind the city’s award-winning Bath Christmas Market – will feature a summer market, late-night shopping and a range of entertainment. Expect a showcase of different aspects of Bath’s modern culture in Union Street from 12pm – 8pm, along with fair-trade crafts and produce from local businesses and artisans (of which we’re sure there are many). “We are delighted to be working with the BID to create a bespoke evening market for Bath at Twilight,” says CEO of Visit Bath, David James. “We hope that visitors and residents will make the most of the city this summer, enjoying a more tranquil pace and the fabulous range of eateries on offer.” While the shops open later than usual, treat yourself to a little retail therapy, or simply rediscover the best of Bath at your leisure under the romantic light of dusk… n For more: www.visitbath.co.uk

BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2018

Rocketmakers design and launch tech for startups. Here, CEO Richard Godfrey tells us more about their innovative team... So how did it feel to win two Bath Life Awards? How did you celebrate? And where are your awards now? We’ve been working extremely hard now for 10 years, so to get that sort of recognition meant a huge amount to us. Apart from celebrating on the evening, we’ve made sure the rest of the team have been able to celebrate, too. The two trophies have pride of place in our oﬃce and we’re building a special space for them (and our Queen’s Award for Enterprise) in our new oﬃce at 20 Manvers Street.

TECHNOLOGY/ INNOVATION WINNER SPONSORED BY

PLATINUM WINNER SPONSORED BY

What makes Rocketmakers stand out from its competitors? Everything we do is in-house, and we work very closely with each of our clients to ensure that we make their company and/or product as amazing as possible. We love working on ‘for good’ projects which will improve people’s lives, whether it’s community volunteering projects, fair-trade travel or food redistribution to charities. So being part of the local community is important to you? It’s absolutely essential. We recently made the decision to move to a new larger oﬃce and had the opportunity to move to Bristol. When we all sat down and discussed our options with the team we realised that being in Bath is part of our core DNA – this is our community and we want to continue being actively involved in it. What do you love most about being based in Bath? Aside from it being one of the most beautiful cities in the UK, there’s a brilliant network of tech startups and creatives who are keen to help each other, and we’re also just a 12-minute train ride to everything that’s happening on the Bristol tech scene.

What’s the atmosphere in the office like? Friendly and relaxed. There is no big management hierarchy, and we have a culture that focuses on the quality of work we deliver. Our working hours are ﬂexible, so our team choose to come in when they work best and to ﬁt their other interests. Clients often join us for our Friday team breakfast.

Reach for the stars…

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And when you’re not working? Social activities range from our infamous monthly get-togethers, to baking events and BBQs. A lot of the team also have pet projects they work on, helping them to keep on top of new tech and developing their skills.

How did you get into doing what you do? After long careers in big companies like Deloitte, Microsoft, The BBC and London Underground, we wanted to create our own software company that we’d be proud of. How has the businecss grown since it started? It started with just three of us in a small room in the Bath Innovation Centre and we’re now up to 19 full-time – with more growth planned for the next year. Best part of your job? Working with innovative and enthusiastic people who want to improve things with new ideas. Who are your business heroes? As Rocketmakers is our name... Elon Musk from SpaceX and Tesla, Jeﬀ Bezos from Blue Origin and Amazon, and then Richard Branson from Virgin Galactic. What has been your proudest (business) moment to date? Other than the Platinum Bath Life Award? It would have to be receiving the Queen’s Award for Enterprise Innovation in April this year, that recognised the incredible work we’ve done with the English Institute of Sport to support many of the GB teams who won medals in Rio. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given? Just do it. Any exciting news to share? We’re moving to a new oﬃce right by Bath Spa station, which we’re designing from the ground up. We’re also raising funds to help the next big startups grow, helping Bath University make racing cars with Augmented Reality, working with big local companies who want to move as quickly as start-ups do… oh, and helping our top athletes compete at the top of their game in Tokyo.

For more: www.rocketmakers.com

SERVICES GUIDE STONE SPECIALIST

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

GUIDE to SERVICES

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

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in the

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Bathrooms

Making a splash Don’t be swayed by purely practical needs. Let’s renovate the bathroom with relaxation and pampering in mind…

fter a long, hard day, what could be more blissful than a steamy shower or long, hot soak in the tub? Here, we’re looking at the bathroom as more than just a place to get clean. Who’s to say you can’t recreate the feel of a luxury spa or hotel in your own home? Whether you’re looking for a full-on revamp, a shiny new suite or some colour scheme ideas, make sure your bathroom makeover goes to plan – whatever its size. In the hands of the local professionals, designing your dream wash space needn’t be daunting. Get ready to enjoy those bubbles…

Make a statement with a geometric bath and basin from Ripples

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Bathrooms

they’ll also bring in unique personal touches. Looks aside, it’s good to get an idea of the size and space of fittings in the flesh (this is hard to grasp online) by making a trip to the local stores. “When planning the dream bathroom, there are so many different styles, finishes and colours to choose from,” says Tom Northway, an expert at Total Bathrooms in Bath. Their showroom on Brassmill Lane has plenty of displays ready to wow. “If you already have an idea of what you like and don’t like, we help to make suggestions for the correct sizes,” he adds. “We also offer free site surveys, and can plan rooms with our state of the art CAD software.” above Unique brassware finishes at Total Bathrooms; above right Displays to inspire at Escape; opposite A walk-in wet space created by Ripples

Planning makes perfect Designing the perfect wash room requires some thought, but where do you begin? Molly Whitefield is a designer for Escape Bathrooms & Kitchen in Frome, and she recommends bringing together a visual checklist of what appeals to you before heading in to a showroom. “Start by looking for inspiration from magazines or online, and look into different trends to discover the looks you like and dislike,” she says. Once you’ve pulled together some of your favourite ideas – Pinterest and Instagram are great sources for this – it’s then time to call in a specialist for some specific pointers on space. “When I design a bathroom, I really need to understand the lifestyle of my customers, and that’s why it’s important to visit their homes first,” says Neil Curtis, who’s a designer at Ripples’ Bath-based showroom. He’ll ask key questions to build up an understanding of your lifestyle, finding out what you need from your bathroom (as well as what you want). “If a customer has children, then I would suggest low-line baths. Or, perhaps, if they like a selection of beauty products in their bathrooms, I’d be talking to them about storage solutions that work in the space they have.” A good designer can make the most of the space available, but

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Let there be light Small bathrooms appear even in otherwise expansive properties – perhaps you need to beautify a guest bathroom or hall water closet. Fortunately, the experts have many clever ideas for making compact spaces feel bigger. “Large mirrors, cut to size and used carefully, make a huge difference to the perception of space and light,” shares Kim Mercer at Ripples, whose luxury showroom is based on London Road. Kim also suggests the careful use of illumination to brighten up a space. “Lighting is a very useful feature, especially with the technological advances in LED tape. Tiny strips of light can be mounted under basins or shelves, giving the appearance of items floating in space.” Low-level mood lighting is sure to make for an ambient soak… just make sure your choices are bathroom rated (so that water can’t seep in).

“Large mirrors, cut to size and used carefully, make a huge difference to the perception of space and light”

After the fitting When your bathroom is finished… treat yourself to a luxury soak with The Somerset Toiletry Company Hi Sakina. Tell us more about what you do… The Somerset Toiletry Company has been passionately creating exquisite body care since 1999 – all completely paraben- and SLS-free. Everything we do is tested in-house as we are strongly against animal cruelty. Our designs range from innovative to traditional to contemporary, and we have won a variety of design and business awards, including The Queen’s Award for Enterprise. Chairman of The Somerset Toiletry Co, Sakina Buoy

Do you make and design locally? We design, formulate and distribute our products from Clutton, a village on the

outskirts of Bath. We manufacture all over the world, but our premium collections are made in the UK. Look out for our new line ‘The Beauty of Bath’, coming in early 2019. We’ve just finished off our luxury new bathroom…. what can you recommend for the first pampering soak? If you are in need of relaxation, then try our new Naturally European Bath Soak, which offers aromatic bath salts with natural extracts. It’s easy to create a spa-at-home experience... just let the minerals dissolve to release delightful fragrances. Sounds dreamy. Where can we find your goodies in Bath? We’re stocked by Prior Park, French Grey, Rossiters of Bath, The Pump Room and Bath Abbey Shop – to name a few. www.thesomersettoiletryco.co.uk

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Bathrooms On the tiles With so many bathroom wall coverings to choose from… Ripples share the tiling trends of the moment @TheFrugalit y

Modern Metro The classic metro tile still certainly has its place in the bathroom – we’re talking slim metro tiles in an array of gorgeous shades, from pastels that please to vibrant colours that pop. Hexagons If a square tile is just a little too predictable, it’s time to introduce you to the hexagonal tile, which works well in mosaic form or as an encaustic tile. The statement of the hexagonal tile stands out against the everyday shapes of a bathroom.

Stylish minimalism from the ‘Memento’ collection at Bathrooms at No.5

Invest in quality When a stunning new bathroom is being fitted, every item you choose needs to fall in line with the style and finish of the main design. If there’s one thing the experts all agree on, it’s the importance of investing in quality. As specialist suppliers in Bath, Bradford on Avon, Somerset and Wiltshire area, Bathrooms at No.5 are well placed to advise on the best choice of taps and showers. Lois Griffin is their interior specialist, “To add that wow factor, use special finish brassware, or choose a bespoke coursing option. If you have the space, a free standing bath is always a great showstopper.” No.5 use Villeroy & Boch fittings, with the promise that these will bring an air of exclusive elegance to your retreat bath. “Villeroy & Boch are world leaders in the production and engineering of porcelain and ceramic products. Their stunning new range, Finion, has a wide offering of finishes including black and gold, which makes for a particularly striking pair,” says Lois. “Team this with some special finish brassware or a subtle dark metallic tile and the result is particularly impressive.” But what about those of us wanting something more classic? “My personal favourite is the Axor Montreaux range. It’s based on early 20th-century design and inspired by the legendary Montreaux spa resort of Lake Geneva. It embodies the charm and sophistication of this era but brings it forward to the 21st century with timeless design and elegance.” feature the shower A wet room can be a sleek upgrade to your existing bathroom, creating a setting that’s both functional and stylish. If you’re holding on to your bath purely for resale reasons, then it might be worth splashing out for a full wet room. We asked the advice of Tom Northway at Total Bathrooms, who are regular suppliers of wet and steam rooms in and around Bath. “Wet room glass panels look fantastic, but they can cost more than a standard shower room as a lot goes on behind the scenes,” he says. Extras include underfloor heating and wall heating (yes really)

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Accidental patterns It’s time to get creative with your grout – yes, really. Ask your designer to create an unusual shape with different coloured grout lines. A simple white tile will look completely different with a dark grey grout as contrast, taking it from classic to industrial. Patterned Go for a monochrome palette and add colour in the shape of accessories in your bathroom (gold brassware would look great here). Or, take the plunge and

Ripples’ Lily Pad tiles in the shower of lifestyle blogger, The Frugality

add a vibrant patterned tile in your main bathroom. Herringbone tiles Chic and classic, herringbone is a great way of drawing attention to a particular area in a bathroom. Opt for a muted shade for grown-up sophisticated styling and team it with wood accents where possible.

to dry up moisture, give off a low level heat and heat your tiles. “It feels very comforting under foot in winter and keeps the floor dry, as well as reducing damp in the room.” Thanks to heated floors and walls your room will remain warm through the seasons. Luxury redefined. Finishing touches and trends Some bathroom styles will always be ‘in’, but this year is, apparently, all about brave and bold design. “Whether it’s a statement tile feature in your shower, a fabric bath or a concrete basin, now is the time to embrace that show-stopping piece that you’ve got your heart set on,” says Ripples’ Kim Mercer. “Live for the moment and create a bathroom that suits you, allows your personality to shine and shows off your creativity.” “Bathrooms are awash with black accents,” she adds. “Take a chance on matt black, and trade in your chrome tap for a chic black mixer to introduce an industrial vibe to your cloakroom. Or, take the plunge with a shower door with black accents and add furniture with matt black legs to really stand out against neutral tiles.” If this approach sounds a bit extreme, bubblegum hues are also on trend. Kim again: “Combine soft and delicate pink colours with fresh and relaxing shades of blue and soft greens.” Once the fitters have left, don’t forget to add the final touches to your bathroom – doors and handles, blinds, shutters, accessories and paint. If a complete bathroom overhaul is in the pipeline, make a real statement to reflect your personality. This is your space to relax, after all… n

gardens

Hide and seek Here we take a closer look at just one of the green idylls on The Hidden Gardens of Bath tour – a collection of intimate visits to special gardens that are on our doorstep but are little known Words and photos by Nick Woodhouse

rewery House almost floats above the village of Southstoke. On the day I’m visiting, the afternoon sun is winning an everevolving battle of wills with the hazy candy floss clouds. It happens to be the summer solstice today, and it makes me wish all

days were this long. Fortunately, amid my daydreaming, there is more industrious work afoot. John Brook is inspecting his table of recently propagated plants while his wife, Ursula, tends to the veranda of their house. They have just had their annual open garden day and, in doing so, have raised much-needed funds for cancer charities both here in Bath and further afield. I suspect they are unlikely to rest on their laurels, though. John works on their garden daily; it has become a labour of love since the couple bought the property in 1984, having moved from London. Little remains of the brewery itself, apart from the under-archways that once stored its beer barrels. Sat above these archways the gardens to the front of the house enjoy views to the Westbury White Horse and beyond. Rosa filipes ‘Kiftsgate’ meanders its way into the canopy of the garden’s mature trees and to its unexpected gem: a second higher level with a wilder, more relaxed feel. The outdoor space looks very different to how the couple found it over three decades ago. Trees such as Ginkgo biloba now accompany the well-established mulberry while the former swimming pool has been turned into a pond, now teaming with wildlife. Norfolk reeds flank the pond

and a floating island meanders without a care past the dragonflies. I discover that the island is made from a car roof sitting on a layer of polystyrene. Planted with marginal plants, it is pulled in by rope for ease of weeding. Like the welding on the ornamental bridge over the pond, the island was made by John himself. The garden is a full-time job for John, who occasionally might pop back to the house for a cup of tea. It is fully organic, which partially explains the abundance of nature here; bees hover diligently over the vast array of roses which pop up among drifts of lesser-known perennials; and it’s walled, so each elevation is also home to an adornment of roses and clematis. The garden is in fact one of 15 that Bathbased Helen Hughesdon features in her collection of garden tours in and around Bath. Helen started the series of green visits five years ago following a dream culture course where participants were encouraged to write 100 dreams of the things they would like to see happen or to do in their lives. From this, The Hidden Gardens of Bath was born; a collection of intimate tours of gardens that are on our doorstep but are little known. As Helen says, “Bath has some truly magnificent houses and hotels but they are usually seen only from the front. Behind, lie hidden gems waiting to be discovered – innovative design, creative planting, historical features, stunning views.” As a child, Helen’s family home had a large garden, but with little time on their hands, her parents found it somewhat of a chore. Helen, a Bath resident since 1980, only really began to find time to fully indulge her passion in gardens when her own three children had flown the nest. Now a grandmother of nine,

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she views her age as an adventure rather than a limitation. She recently ran the London Marathon and is determined to be the fastest female runner in her age for any distance. This determination shines through in her ever-growing business. She has run tours for visitors from as far afield as Australia, China and the USA and her tours are featured in the top 10 things to do in Bath by The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel. The gardens vary in size, from a small space in Weston comprising entirely of container planting, to a 3.5-acre garden in Widcombe. While shorter tours include a cream tea or full afternoon tea, day tours also include a two-course meal prepared by Helen herself. On one such tour, a visitor suggested that Helen might have the best job in the world. She found it hard to disagree, “I aim to provide not just a tour but an experience,” she says. “Each garden has a story to tell and I hope that as visitors journey through them and meet the hard-working and passionate owners, they will be inspired to dream a little and find the story inside of them.” And surely we all need to dream once in a while. The Hidden Gardens of Bath www.thehiddengardensofbath.co.uk 01225 442788

Nick Woodhouse is the co-director of interior and garden design company Woodhouse & Law on 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath; 01225 428072; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

opposite, Helen Hughesdon;

this page, Brewery House gardens

A PLACETO CALL HOME

PROPERTY A PL ACE TO C ALL HOME

GRANBY HOUSE This stylishly refurbished detached country house on the market in Bradford on Avon is complete with a pool, cinema and animalﬁlled paddocks. Let’s take a closer look… By Evelyn Green

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PROPERTY

h, we can picture it now, the perfect summer Saturday at Granby House: a morning sweat in the well-equipped gym before enjoying breakfast in the orangery, followed by a day of sunbathing, and leisurely swims in the outdoor pool. Then, back upstairs, we’d select a comfortable outfit from the spacious double dressing rooms and, by the time 5 o’clock rolled around, we’d head down to the wine cellar to choose a wonderfully evolved classic bottle before cooking a meal in the urban-look kitchen and enjoying a candlelit dinner on the roof terrace, or in the dining room – complete with a swanky bar. We’d later catch a flick in the cinema room, and then, before bed, we’d cuddle in the sitting room – either one of the main ones or the one on the first floor attached to the master bedroom, no biggie – and undoubtedly go on to have the soundest night’s sleep of our lives. For someone, somewhere, all of this – not necessarily in that order – will be reality soon, only it won’t just be weekend, it will be for the foreseeable future, because Granby House is on the market, and some lucky so and so is going to be its new owner. Originally commissioned by quarry master Isaac Jones, Granby House was built at the turn of the 20th century. The exquisite home has been completely and stylishly refurbished by the current owners and offers pristine accommodation arranged over three floors. You approach the detached property via grand stone pillared gates, which give way to a sweeping gravel

driveway that leads up to the house. The welcoming and spacious entrance hall leads to the magnificent principal reception rooms; there’s an impressive L-shaped drawing room with a marble fireplace and views across the fabulous gardens – but we’ll get to those later. The large kitchen/breakfast room has been opened up and fitted with a huge Lacanche range cooker, bespoke handmade kitchen units and an exceptional handmade pewter-covered kitchen table from France – this forms a focal point for eating and socialising. A door from the kitchen leads to a pantry area and down to the wine cellar and vaults. Lying at the heart of the house is a large dining hall with ample space for entertaining, and a door out to the rear courtyard. The owners have also added a bespoke pewter-covered bar. To one side is a boot room and a space that many would covet: a cinema room. And to the other side is a cosy sitting room with double doors opening out to the more recently added orangery, which also benefits from direct access to the rear courtyard. An attached wing is currently arranged to provide a gym and home office with two showers and a link to the laundry/utility room. It could easily be occupied as a selfcontained ground floor annex if you so wished, though. Upstairs, the generous landing area provides a real sense of space and links to all the first floor bedrooms. The master bedroom suite occupies the best position with a southwest-facing bay maximising the natural light. Complementing the main bedroom is a double dressing room, a bathroom and a separate shower room, as well as a private sitting room or extra bedroom, which would be ideal as a nursery.

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PROPERTY

Two large bedrooms, with en suite bathrooms, have doors out to a roof terrace, while a further guest bedroom has an en suite shower room. The sixth bedroom is on the second floor, with a shower room and ample storage within the eaves. And although that’s the final bedroom of the house, it’s not the final bedroom in the property. A cottage leads off the rear courtyard, you see. It’s a self-contained living space – ideal for guests, or even for grandparents to live in – which boasts two double bedrooms, a spacious sitting room, a kitchen, two shower rooms and its own area of garden. There’s also an assortment of outbuildings, including a pool house, a summer house and stables. We promised you we’d come back to those glorious, secluded gardens, didn’t we? And here we are. The house sits in picturesque grounds of just over 11 and a half acres, encompassing specimen trees, wisteria walkways, established flower beds and ornamental fish ponds. To the front of the property is a large gravel parking/ turning area, which leads around the side of the house via a stone archway to a double car port. But the best parts, we think, are the hard tennis court, swimming pool and the lush paddocks – the latter which are let out to a local farmer at the moment, so the current owners wake up to the sight of grazing sheep each morning. Fluffy ovines aren’t the only sight you’ll see from the windows, though. As the house is situated on the edge of the historic market town Bradford on Avon, in the village of Westwood, it enjoys an idyllic rural setting surrounded by countryside. Bath’s only around eight miles away, however; so it’s easy enough to get to the city. From the future owner, wherever and whoever you are, we ask but one favour: please invite us over to live out a dream lazy Saturday, just once, won’t you?

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House numbers Square foot of space 10,168 Bedrooms

Price

£3.25 m

Gardens

11.57 acres

Extras An orangery, a cinema room, a gym, a double dressing room, a roof terrace, a swimming pool, a pool house and summerhouse, a wine cellar, paddocks and a self-contained cottage Knight Frank, 4 Wood Street, Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2JQ; 01225 685246; www.knightfrank.co.uk

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A spot of entertainment

A free outdoor cinema in Bath will be screening the family favourite 101 Dalmatians

aking place on Friday 27 July at Bath Riverside, fans of the film, which features Glenn Close, are being invited to pop along where they will be able to set up a picnic, sit back and enjoy the movie. Starting at 7.30pm, those interested can make their way to Victoria Bridge Gardens, which is just off Victoria Bridge Road and next to the iconic Victoria Bridge that spans the River Avon. Leigh Pitts, marketing manager at Crest Nicholson says: “When work started to regenerate the derelict Stothert & Pitt Engineer and Founders, part of the vision was to include acres of public space which could be used for events just like this, so it’s great that we’re making the most of what is the city’s newest outdoor performance area. “A lot has happened since Crest Nicholson

“Set in the fabulous Victoria Bridge Gardens area, this amphitheatre-style setting provides the perfect location for an open air cinema” started work here and it’s a brilliant example of how the local community is able to make the most of a space that only a few years ago was really run down. There’s no way we could have held any performances here before now and we’re delighted to now be able to set this up for people to enjoy. “Set in the fabulous Victoria Bridge Gardens area, this amphitheatre-style setting provides

the perfect location for an open air cinema. “One of our designated charities this year is the Bath Cats & Dogs Home, so it seems appropriate to show 101 Dalmatians. There will be food and drink available, with any voluntary contributions being given to the charity. “We hope the weather will shine down on us and that lots of people come along and enjoy the film. It really is fantastic family viewing and it’ll be great to see plenty of mums, dads and kids here on the day.” Those interested can arrive from 6pm, Friday 27 July 2018 on Victoria Bridge Road. n

For further information please call 01225 463 517 or visit www. crestnicholson.com/bathriverside The marketing suite on Victoria Bridge Road is open daily from 10 am to 5pm. mediaclash.co.uk 105

Bath LIVES

“I was lucky to work with Stephen King and Jodi Picoult” you really feel it’s ready, pitch it to agents with a clear idea of what it is and who it’s aimed at. My favourite authors are… Maggie O’Farrell and Sarah Winman. Both write compelling stories, with beauty and truth at their hearts.

Hannah Richell Hannah is the author of two international bestsellers, and, last month, her third book, The Peacock Summer, was released... I used to work in publishing and the film industry… I devised marketing campaigns and was lucky to work with some exciting brands and authors, such as Stephen King, Jodi Picoult, Twilight and Universal Pictures. The trigger for me to take my writing seriously was...having my first child. While on maternity leave, I wanted to do something to keep my brain ticking over. The idea for my first novel, Secrets of the Tides, was inspired by memories of childhood holidays. I was excited by the idea; I grabbed every spare moment I could to write. The novel was picked up for the Richard and Judy Book Club… It felt like real validation for all the hard work. Plus, it was thrilling to know that Richard

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and Judy (whom I had bunked many a uni lecture to watch), had read and liked my book. My new book, The Peacock Summer is… a twisty and emotional tale of an illicit 1950s love affair and its far-reaching consequences, set in a fading English manor. I’ve seen reviews for the book… drawing comparisons with Kate Morton’s books, which is incredibly flattering. The top tip I would give any aspiring author would be... to perfect that initial submission, show your drafts to trusted readers, give your manuscript time to breathe, and keep reworking it. Be brutal in the editing process and then, when

It’s fantastic working for myself… and having the freedom to pick up my laptop and work from any location I fancy. I get paid to spend my time daydreaming, and when readers get in touch to tell you that they enjoyed your books it really is the icing on the cake. The downside is the loneliness. I moved back to the UK recently, after 12 years in Australia… I live just outside Bath in Bradford on Avon. I fell in love with BoA, and chose to live here as it’s close to my mother. I am relishing the incredible history and beauty of Bath… I’m not sure I’ll ever tire of its cobbled streets and incredible architecture. The sight of those crescent terraces and chimney pots against the sky always stops me in my tracks. Places I can’t go past without popping in include… Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights for books; Colonna & Smalls for a flat white; Pintxo’s courtyard garden for rosé; and The Dark Horse for a late-night cocktail. My favourite local view is… Looking down the hill from the top of Prior Park.

If I owned Bath… I’d make it traffic-free so pedestrians could roam the streets free from the roar of car engines and pollution. My biggest achievement was… Getting the phone call from my agent to tell me that the first publisher’s offer was in after 24 hours on submission, and learning that the novel was going to auction. My books have been translated into 19 languages – this still astounds me! My husband, Matt, died in 2014... He was surfing with a friend in Sydney and got into trouble. It’s taken a long time to process the tragedy, but moving back to the UK has allowed me and my two children to find a new balance to our lives. I had been writing The Peacock Summer when he died… I had to put the novel to one side for a time to focus on the kids. It’s hard to write fiction when you feel empty inside, but, gradually, I found my way back to the novel. Rediscovering my creativity has proved to be a great release. n

The Peacock Summer, published by Orion Fiction, was launched at Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights in Bath in June. It will also be available to buy at other independent bookstores and Waterstones. For more, visit www. hannahrichell.com