Bath Life – Issue 374

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property @BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 374 / 14 –28 SEPTEMBER 2018 / £3

ISSUE 374 / 14 –28 SEPTEMBER 2018 / CORRIDORS OF POWER

MEMORY LANE

LIVE AND LEARN

A SPOTLIGHT ON THE CITY’S SCHOOLS

HOST WITH THE MOST

DERMOT O’LEARY ON HIS UPCOMING VISIT

CHANGE OF SCENE NEW-BUILDS MAKING AN IMPACT

LEAF IT OUT

LOCAL LOVE FOR NEW VEGGIE CAFÉ

THE PASSAGEWAYS THAT ADD TO BATH’S UNIQUENESS

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE Discover Bath’s eclectic

passageways (page 32);

BELOW It’s Sleeptember, so get

some shut-eye (page 82)

A

side from when I go on holiday, I’m in Bath pretty much seven days a week; and it’s wonderful that, even after years of living and working here, I still come across truck-loads of new information about it every day. In my opinion, Bath’s the least boring place in the world, but, then, I am biased, obviously.

One of my favourite regular features to write in the magazine is our Street Life section, in which we turn our focus to a certain area of the city, and really get under the skin of it, chat to the traders, hear from locals, and piece together its history, and what we discover is always intriguing.

My chosen ‘area’ this week is the maze of little pedestrian lanes – comprising Union Passage, Northumberland Place, New Bond Street Place and The Corridor. Turn to page 32 to hear about: its IRA bombing; its cock-fighting ring; which building belongs to the Grand Old Duke of York; which of the lanes had a river running through it, handy for washing away unspeakables flung from windows above; its famous shoppers, including Star Wars’ George Lucas; and how The Corridor set an example for the rest of the world.

We’ve got a lot more besides in this issue, though, including the discussion of gender in Bath’s schools (page 86); the residential new-builds in the city (page 130); a blast of freshness from new veggie joint Rooted (page 66); and interviews with Dermot O’Leary – who’s coming to the Bath Children’s Literature this month (page 146) – and Jackie Herring, the director of Bath’s annual Jane Austen Festival, which starts the day this issue hits the city – 14 September – and will run for 10 days (page 56).

Enjoy!

LISA EVANS Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag Instagram @bathlifemag

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 3

Issue 374 / 14- 28 September 2018 COVER The Corridor, by Chris Daw. For more, see page 32

STREET LIFE

32 THE LANES Discover the stories from the

retailers in the tucked-away lanes of Bath

THE ARTS

43 ARTS INTRO Celebrated modern sculptor Auguste

Rodin at the Holburne Museum

44 WHAT’S ON All the events in and around Bath 56 THE BIG INTERVIEW Meet Jackie Herring,

director of the Jane Austen Festival

65 FILM The best movies coming to our screens

this autumn

FOOD&DRINK

130

56

66 RESTAURANT Bath’s latest vegetarian offering 71 TRY 5 Cheeses, cured meats and continental pastries

at Bath’s top delis

72 FOOD & DRINK NEWS Local cuisine in the

headlines this month

77 WINE The low-down on the forthcoming Great

Western Wine tasting evening

SHOPPING

81 INTRO Gary Wood’s eye-catching Torso collection 82 EDITOR’S CHOICE Must-have items to help you

get your beauty sleep

65 © HARRY COOPER

82

66

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Issue 374 / 14- 28 September 2018

EDUCATION

86 EDUCATION Bath’s schools talk innovation and

the future

LIFESTYLE

104 GREAT ESCAPES The gorgeous properties you

could own on the coastline

146 LIVES TV favourite Dermot O’Leary on his

love for Bath

BUSINESS

109 BUSINESS INSIDER News, views and interviews

from the region’s professionals

PROPERTY

121 SHOWCASE Take a peek inside The Old Rectory 130 CHANGING FACE The developers and residential

new-builds giving Bath a makeover

DEPARTMENTS

9 SPOTLIGHT 14 SOCIETY 25 A MAN’S WORLD

146

© R AY BURMINSTON

86

121

Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Editor Harriet Noble harriet.noble@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, Sophie Claire McLeod and Angela Mount 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

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

© VISIT BATH

SPOTLIGHT Semesa Rokoduguni and Jamie Roberts enjoying a cuppa in Visit Bath’s new film

Cinema

FILMS AL FRESCO The Royal Crescent will screen a variety of film classics this September as part of The Luna Cinema’s 10th anniversary.

The cinema will be located in the grounds of the building so that audiences can watch their chosen film under a starry sky.

The line-up includes the hit musical The Greatest Showman, starring Hugh Jackman; Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone; and the high school romance Grease.

For those who fancy something

to nibble on, there will be hot food for sale, and drinks can purchased at the Luna bar.

Audiences are welcome to bring their own picnic, too.

George Wood, founder of The Luna Cinema, says, “We are really excited to be celebrating our 10th anniversary with our biggest season of open-air cinema to date – it certainly feels as if the line-up of films and venues for the coming season is our strongest ever.”

For more: www.thelunacinema.com

Celebrating Bath

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!

An enraptured audience at The Royal Crescent

“So, you think you know Bath? Think again…” This is the question that Visit Bath pose in their new film that casts the city in a new light.

A star-studded cast, including four Olympians, four Bath Rugby players and a comedian, together with a range of appearances from other well-known Bath faces, all combine to tell a vibrant story which brings the city to life and challenges the more traditional perceptions of the city.

Neil Priscott, head of marketing at Visit Bath said: “In making this film, Visit Bath hopes to surprise and delight viewers and challenge them to think about the city in a different way. It is an energetic and entertaining film which captures the variety that Bath has to offer the visitor who wants to stay and explore.”

For more: visitbath.co.uk/think-you-know-bath to view the film

Family day out

© CHRIS DAWSON

WHAT A HOOT

All owls present and correct!

Owl fans will be given one last chance to see all 82 owl and owlet sculptures at the Minerva’s Owls of Bath Hoot Farewell Weekend on 29-30 September.

The wise old creatures will be on display at the Bath Recreation Ground, where Olympic gold medal winner Amy Williams MBE will be unveiling her own owlet design, while illustrator Martin Brown will be giving away a set of his Horrible Histories books.

Megan Witty, organiser of the Minerva’s Owls of Bath event, says, “The Hoot Farewell will be a great chance for people to see all the owls in one location, plus a couple of surprise additions to the flock before they fly off to the charity auction. Based on our previous King Bladud’s Pigs and Lions of Bath preview weekends, we are expecting around 15,000 owl fans to descend on The Rec for this fun weekend of owlery, which will be a hoot for owl fans of all ages.”

For more: www.minervasowls.org

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SPOTLIGHT Property

LONDON DESCENDS

Bath property is becoming a desirable option for those wishing to leave London and its extortionate house prices. A recent report from property agents Hamptons International reported that in the first half of 2018, a staggering 42 per cent of all homes in B&NES were bought

by Londoners.

Hamptons also reported that the average Home Sweet Home London-leaver buying in the south-west of England paid nearly £550,000 for a home.

A large proportion of the Londoners moving down to the West Country, as well as those wanting to retire in the area, are people who are still working in London and continue to commute long distance to the capital or even stay in London for a few days a week.

Another nearby location that has experienced an increase in London buyers is East Dorset, where former Londoners now make up 25 per cent of the homebuyers in the region.

For more: www.hamptons.co.uk © HAMPTONS

ROYAL COLLECTION TRUST / © HER MAJEST Y QUEEN ELIZ ABETH II 2018

Frock worn by the Queen Mother

Fashion

The Fashion Museum Bath will host a series of Twilight Talks this Autumn, where expert speakers will talk about fashion-related subjects ranging from royal attire to the history of fabrics.

Royals going under the fashion microscope will be Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother (1900-2002), and perhaps one of the most glamorous royals of all time, Her Royal Highness The Princess Margaret (1930-2002).

Style lovers will also be able to enjoy talks from British couturier Jon Moore, who will discuss his rise to Royal couturier at Hardy Amies and designer for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Councillor Paul Myers, cabinet member for economic and community regeneration, says, “These talks are a wonderful opportunity for local people to hear speakers from national institutions such as the V&A, The Royal Collection, and the Museum of London. We look forward to welcoming these experts to Bath for what should be a fascinating series of evening events.”

For more: www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

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© GWA AC

FASHION TALKS

GWAAC heroes at work

Charity

CHARITY GETS A LIFT

Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) has received £300,000 from the HELP Appeal to fund the helipad at the new air base in Almondsbury. This significant contribution to the charity will enable them to continue providing their life-saving service.

GWAAC provides the Critical Care and Air Ambulance service to 2.1 million people across the counties of Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire, North Somerset and surrounding areas. The GWAAC crew attend on average five incidents every day.

The new air base will provide the charity with stability for the foreseeable future. GWAAC need to raise £1.25 million to buy the air base. The recent donation from HELP will see them edge closer to their target.

For more: www.greatwesternairambulance.com and www.buyourbase.co.uk

THE TALBOT CLINIC The Talbot Clinic is pleased to announce the new partnership between: Mr Toby R Talbot, Restorative Dental Specialist and Mr Serryth Colbert, Oral Maxillo-Facial Plastic Surgeon.

The new partnership of Talbot and Colbert is dedicated to all face and neck procedures.

We offer a comprehensive approach, encompassing a wide range of cosmetic and restorative procedures, surgical as well as nonsurgical. Whether the need is for a beautiful smile, facial rejuvenation or a stronger profile, we are presenting clients with the opportunity to receive specialist treatment in a caring and professional environment. All under one roof. Talbot & Colbert will be offering the following treatments:

NON-SURGICAL PROCEDURES – REJUVENATING COSMETIC TREATMENTS • Wrinkle reducing treatment to restore a fresh and youthful appearance (Botulinum toxin) • Lip and cheek enhancement (Hyaluronic acid) Injectable gel fillers • Rejuvenation of hands and feet (Hyaluronic acid) Injectable gel fillers • Facial rejuvenation and volume loss due to age, lifestyle and weightloss (Hyaluronic acid Injectable gel fillers

COSMETIC SURGICAL PROCEDURES • Facelift (lower, mid and full face lifts) • Browlift • Blepharoplasty (correction of droopy and hooded eyelids, upper and lower) • Cheek implants (loss of volume, facial symmetry) • Chin implants (correction of shape and profile) • Rhinoplasty (correcting size, shape and function) • Necklift (correction of neck banding and excessive skin) • Removal of moles and skintags • Scar removal (unsightly birthmarks, scars and blemishes)

RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY PROCEDURES • Endodontics (treating infected and/or decaying teeth) • Periodontics (Treating gum disease) • Prosthodontics (Replacement of missing teeth), Dentures, bridgework or implant supported prostheses. Fixed or removable.

• Titanium Implants (permanently fixed implants replacing one or more lost teeth) • Porcelain veneers and overlays

RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGICAL PROCEDURES • Surgical intervention and reconstruction due to skin cancer

ORTHODONTICS • Invisalign – Invisible and removable tray based aligner system to correct teeth position and bite Engagement with a client necessitates complete understanding and trust. We undertake a structured consultation encompassing a full medical assessment, whether the need be

cosmetic or restorative in nature. Our services are tailored to each individual client, based on their unique requirements and needs. This approach forms the philosophy that underpins our practice.

Patients first. Always.

MR SERRYTH COLBERT

Consultant Oral Maxillo-Facial Plastic Surgeon

MB BCH BAO, BDS, MSC (Oxon), MFDS (Eng), MRCS (Irl), MRCS (Edin), FRCS (OMFS), FFD (Irl) Serryth qualified in medicine at the National University of Ireland in Galway and straight afterwards he qualified in dentistry at University College Cork in Ireland. He was appointed a NHS Consultant in the Department of Facial Surgery at the Royal United Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in 2015 where he currently serves as Clinical Director.

For consultations with Toby or Serryth please call 01225 426 222 or book online www.talbotcinic.co.uk 24 Emergency Practice. Part of

. Because We Care

The Talbot Clinic, Tasburgh House, Warminster Road, BA2 6SH. Phone 01225 426 222. Company reg. no. 02853023

The Guildhall Your idea, our venue, the event of the year

Maybe you have attended a wedding in our grand Banqueting Room, or had the joy of registering your child’s birth in our Georgian building. But were you aware that the Guildhall has hosted book talks, gin festivals and film screenings to name a few of our diverse events?

The Guildhall has four picturesque rooms, is only a ten minute walk from the Bath Spa train station and is the only heritage venue in Bath where you can select a caterer of your choice.

If you are searching for a venue to hold your unique event then come to the High Street for a new experience.

To book a viewing or to find out more contact Sara Brooks, Events Manager, at sara_brooks@bathnes.gov.uk • 01225 477442

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

Georgia Dowling, Chris Hart and Sue Bush

Della Oliver and Anne Gesell Andy Clarke and Dan Fallon

Kevin Staff, Steve James, Isabella Newman, Edward Chudleigh and Yi Yuan

PARTY GAMES

Laura Driffield, Gemma Bailey, Elaine Sosna, Andrew White, Sarah Matthews and Caroline Reid Mary Stringer, Jayne Christie, Michael Kitney and Dave Dixon

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

Creative Bath hosted their Summer Social at Victoria Park’s Bath on the Beach on a wonderfully balmy evening, proving there is still a bit of summer left to be squeezed out of 2018. Guests were treated to a delicious, neon-coloured cocktail on arrival and got stuck into fresh Mexican food and exotic beverages from the friendly team at the Carribean-themed bar. Popular drinks included a most refreshing number called The Copper Thief.

Bath-based professionals took the opportunity to mingle, chill in the hammocks, compete in a tense game of Jenga, or play a very civilised game of Boules.

Photos by Harriet Noble

Nick Davis and Ed Grattan

Elysia Paterson and Antoni Costa Steve James

SOCIETY

Party-goers talking business ideas

Guests mingling at the EON party

All smiles and vino

Mary stringer, Faith Toynbee, Alison Garcia Levy and Angela MacAusland

UP ON THE ROOF

The Ivy Bath Brasserie, on Milsom Street, recently hosted the Summer Party for the Event Organisers Network (EON).

Attended by 80 guests, it was a perfect summer’s evening for EON guests to enjoy the roof terrace and Baldwin room, sipping on Ivy Champagne and gorging on the most delicious canapés.

The community of event planners and organisers get together once a month in different venues across Bath and Bristol to have a catch up, exchange ideas, and refer business to one another, and then deliver better events as a result.

EON founder and event organiser Franco de la Croix-Vaubois says, “The Ivy really delivered a great event. It was fantastic: top service, attentive staff, some of the best canapés I have had, great attention to detail and a wonderful summer vibe.”

Jeremy Fraser and Carol Walshingham

Photos by Liam Macauleyp

Robyn Lush One happy chappie

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Mel Rodrigues and Franco de la Croix-Vaubois

SOCIETY

Polly Gough, Tim Edwardes and Catherine Arnold

© KARENA DORLEY-BROWN

Jason Dorley-Brown and Neal Slateford

Clover Kayne and Kitty Mundy

BACK TOGETHER

A reunion party was held recently held at Moles, for friends and others that frequented Bath’s famous music venue back in the ’80s and early ’90s. Organised by painter and photographer Jason Dorley-Brown and Neal Slateford (Lovehoney owner and former Moles DJ) the party, says Jason, was, “a celebration of our shared history in the city that helped mould us into the adults we are today.

“We decided to raise funds for two charities that have been of personal comfort and support to myself and Neal – Dorothy House and Macmillan Cancer Support. So far, we have raised £1,300 but hope to add to that amount with the sale of images created to promote the party, and pics of attendees and others from the ’80s in Bath.”

Photos by Roy Newport

Nickie Portman and Debbie Hicks Sachi Taylor, Ruthy Smythe and Gaby Moore

Jen Stephens, Heidi Stephens and Emma Stephens

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Emma Davis Kane, Sarah Hoult and Richard Hoult

Darren Pennington and Clare Sparkly

Erica Lynall Dixon, Tracie Hope, Rachel Russell and Jane Challinor

SOCIETY

Alan Harbour and James Bunden

Gail Kalk, Robert Kalk and Boo the dog

Joanne Brooks and Nerys Evans

THE RIVER WILD

Kayleigh Burch-Brodie, Jo Sumnall and Bertie the dog

Riverside restaurant Timbrell’s Yard recently opened their doors for the annual summer holiday party, where Bradford on Avon residents (and dogs) enjoyed a night of drinks, food and merriment.

There was an abundance of tasty street food from executive chef Tom Blake, formerly head chef at River Cottage, and his team: smoked pork shoulder slider with spicy slaw; burgers with Barbers cheddar and bacon ketchup; grilled aubergine and pumpkin satay sliders; Cornish sardines with chermoula, coriander and mayo; and falafel.

Joining the party were Camden Brewery who provided Hells lager and ales. Other tipples that proved a hit were Brockmans Gin & Tonic, Timbrell’s cocktails and Orchard Pig Reveller Cider.

Matt Pacey of Camden Town Brewery

Photos by Jeni Meade

Sian Price, Ruth Stringer, Clive Stringer, Sue Blundell, Shaun Blundell and Steve Price

All smiles at the bar Timbrell Yard’s staff, Henry Gray, James Braithwaite, Tom Blake and Klaudia Briddon

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Rob Totham

Sarah Jones sand Tim Jones

SOCIETY

Residents relaxing at Roseate villa

Ravi Birdy and Esmond Murray

DOWN AT THE VILLA Local residents were invited to Roseate Villa for the annual summer party where executive director Ravi Birdy, and general manager of the hotel, Caroline Browning, were on hand to speak to party-goers about future plans for the hotel.

Although the party was inside, in the elegant drawing room of the hotel no less, the drinks were purely summery, with beer and Pimm’s being served alongside Champagne and canapés.

Photos by Alistair Taylor

Hanging out with the stag

You can never have enough Pimm’s

Deep in thought

HIP HIP HOORAY

Bath bar Sub 13 celebrated their 14th birthday in great style by throwing a massive end-ofsummer party. Guests enjoyed colourful cocktails on the terrace, while those with the moves danced to old-school classics.

Photos by Roy Newport

Ready to party What a smiley bunch

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Tim Whelehan and Alex Miller

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A MAN’S WORLD DAVID FLATMAN

Clothes make the man

© TAKING PICTURES

When it comes to choosing outfits, Flats swears it’s more problematic for blokes than women…

“I think we all agree that being male is incredibly difficult”

E

xisting in a world where donning a dinner suit and bow tie is a pretty common occurrence, I hear a lot from women about how easy it is for chaps to look the part. And I agree that, at black tie events, this is unarguably the case. However, when considering your average – less formal – evening out, I think it’s harder for blokes than lots of people presume.

They key is to look good without looking like you’ve tried too hard. This, though, must never translate into literally not trying. It’s like those blokes you see with messy, just-rolled-out-ofbed hair on their way to work in the mornings. We all know that these funky lids have been styled in front of actual mirrors and with the help of fistfuls of wax (or whatever it is they use these days. Somehow I’m out of touch in this area). These pseudocasual types are fooling nobody.

It’s the same with that look that sees jeans tucked scraggily into the tops of worn-looking boots with not-properly-done-up laces.

It’s a popular approach, but I’m not having it. After all, we’re not living on the front of a calendar of sex-god firemen. We’re going down the pub. So just do your shoes up, lad, and make your jeans look smart.

I went to a posh pub recently – not in Bath – that permitted neither trainers nor blue denim jeans. This I found odd.

Outlawing actual running trainers might seem reasonable enough, but the no-jeans ruling made the place seem a little pretentious.

You see, we were all wearing jeans. We’d been at a lovely all-day event and, in said jeans, tailored jackets and shirts, and smart, properly done-up shoes, we looked lovely. While I concede that well-fitted clothing can only do so much when the physique beneath isn’t perhaps quite what

it was, nobody could have claimed that we didn’t look sufficiently spiffing as a gaggle.

What made this place seem even more pretentious was that, during the process of not allowing us to take our pre-booked table for dinner, the manager spotted that one of the group was what you might call ‘known,’ in that she was off the telly. She, too, wore blue denim jeans and, if you can believe it, some sneaker pumps.

Admittedly, they were Jimmy Choo pumps with funny spikes on and they were all shiny – and grim, to be honest – but they were trainers nonetheless. But, because she was famous, we were welcomed in with open arms and disingenuous, off-white grins.

I recall a pub in my home town putting up a notice that said: ‘No Burberry. No baseball caps. No Reebok Classics’. This seemed fair at the time as most Friday nights involved some lads wearing all three of these items head butting someone and turning their white shoes red. But no jeans? I ask you.

Overstyle your hair and you look silly. Understyle it and you haven’t bothered. Make those jeans too tight and you want to be in a boyband and can’t walk up stairs. Too baggy and you’re MC Hammer. Women, though, can just go for it. Full make-up, light, cool dresses. Easy. I know that putting your face on every day must be both boring and time consuming, but at least you know where you stand. Add to this that a girlfriend of mine recently told me that childbirth was indeed less painful than major shoulder surgery, and I think we will all agree that being male is incredibly difficult.

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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 25

STREET LIFE

MAZE OF GLORIES

We chat to the retailers in the tucked-away lanes of Bath – from Northumberland Place to The Corridor. Explore and get lost in – maybe even literally – this maze of delights with us…

T

By Lisa Evans Photos by Chris Daw

he Corridor, which opened in 1825, followed in the footsteps of the fashionable shopping arcades of Paris and London’s Burlington Arcade, becoming one of the world’s first examples of an indoor, covered shopping arcade. Thousands of people and local dignitaries attended the opening of the arcade, which was designed and built by local architect Henry Edmund Goodridge – son of a successful Bath builder, James Goodridge.

On its completion in 1825, the residents of Bath could see how The Corridor showcased Goodridge’s neo-classical influences. This is all according to The Corridor’s official website (www.thecorridorbath.co.uk).

The Grade-II listed arcade – originally called Goodridge’s Corridor – featured, at the high street end, a Doric colonnade and arch with marble columns. A musician’s gallery with a wrought iron balustrade and gilt lions’ heads and garlands were inserted in the centre of the

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

In Northumberland Place, get a pooch photo shoot and a turmeric-base pizza, among plenty of other quirky treats

“The Corridor became one of the world’s first examples of shopping arcades”

The entrance to one of the world’s first covered shopping arcades

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STREET LIFE arcade, making it one of the most attractive of its kind in the world, and put Bath at the forefront of the modern shopping experience.

Apparently, no one could run, whistle, sing, or carry large parcels through The Corridor during trading hours, such were the rules of the time, and there was even a Corridor Constable in place to enforce this.

Next to The Corridor is a maze of interconnecting retail-dominated side lanes, including Union Passage, Northumberland Place and New Bond Street Place; take a look inside them, and The Corridor, here...

LOOKING GOOD

The lanes have the potential to become “the jewellery quarter” of Bath, according to Nicholas Wylde, the director of Nicholas Wylde Goldsmiths on Northumberland Place, and we can see why, what with the likes of The Silver Shop, Gold & Platinum Studio, Crystals, Jody Cory Goldsmiths, and Prezzi around these parts.

“Since I came to Bath at the age of 20, my dream was to have my own business,” says Nicholas Wylde. “At the age of 23 I had developed a great desire to open in the lanes, but no one took me seriously at my young age.

My determination kept me knocking on the door of the commercial agent every Friday, on my day off from work, for four solid months.

They eventually gave in, giving me one day to come up with a business plan. Then, 48 hours later, I secured the spot. That was over 30 years ago.”

Ros Mason, estate manager at Crystals – where you’ll find museum-quality mineral and fossil specimens alongside their extensive ranges of handmade jewellery – strongly believes in the importance of keeping Bath’s pedestrianised and historically rich lanes alive. “Interesting paving slabs, flowers, pigeons, beautiful and highly varied window displays and signage all contribute to Northumberland Place’s delightful atmosphere; we see a long-term future for our shop.”

As for places that can kit you out with a new wardrobe, head to the likes of independent fashion and accessories boutique Flock, with its eight-metre shop front, where you’ll find Italian linen and knitwear, as well as labels such as Ruby Shoo and Disaster Design.

Get yourself inside Popclub Vintage for reworked streetwear, focusing on youth trends, and inspired by the out-of-the-ordinary.

“There’s a bustling, safe, friendly vibe that makes the place enchanting” 34 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

They don’t get cooler than Will Cotterill at Popclub Vintage

Megan Lilley at Flock, where you’ll find pretty unusual labels

Sophie Tippett doing what she does best, at Phylosophie

WHAT CAME BEFORE?

IMAGE COURTESY OF MAVEN GALLERY

What were the current shop spaces used for in the past?

“We haven’t been able to figure out what was here before The Silver Shop. The shop was established in 1952, a year before the Queen’s coronation, making it one of the oldest shops in Bath.”

Guy Douglas, the owner of The Silver Shop “We believe our business space was a hairdressing salon and an opticians in the past.”

James Eacott at C the World “It was a gallery for years.”

Emiliano Tunno at Dough

“Just before we moved in, it was a menswear shop called Old Guys Rule.”

Lisha Wu at Tealith “I know that it was once a kite shop, but it was a sandwich shop before I took over.”

Rosario Bavetta at Rosarios Cafe “This space was once a linen shop called Cologne & Cotton.”

Jo Harrod Bertinet at Bertinet Bakery Artist Irene Marsh’s take on Northumberland Place. Her work can be seen at Maven Gallery

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 35

STREET LIFE

Cake with a smile, from Sarah Lauder of Bertinet Bakery

“We operate seven days a week, 52 weeks of the year, only closing on Christmas Day”

“I’ve heard that if you walk up all four floors of Popclub Vintage and make a purchase, you’ll have a happy and healthy life,” jests Scott Bartram, Popclub’s co-owner. “Now festival season is completed, the plan is to open a second shop. We spent many years travelling the UK with one-day pop-up shops, fairs and festivals, so having the shop is amazing; we see the space as a constant art project.”

You can even find fashionable accessories for pets at Pug & Puffin, as well as in-housedesigned coasters, mugs and cushions for pet lovers. Don’t leave without snapping a picture of your pooch in the photo booth.

Hair salon Phylosophie, and beauty and wellness businesses like Neal’s Yard Remedies, Radiance Wellbeing, and X-cellent Nails & Beauty complete the ‘looking good’ package.

BIG EATS

There’s a celebrity among the lanes in the form of Richard Bertinet – the city’s best-known baker – who offers sourdoughs, specialist viennoiserie, pastries and cakes from his spot on New Bond Street Place. And there’s plenty more tasty treats in the maze, too; there are sweet delights at Ben’s Cookies and La

WHAT’S MISSING?

If traders could add anything to the area, what would it be?

“A gin shop next door would be very welcome!”

Nicholas Wylde at Nicholas Wylde Goldsmiths

Rosario Bavetta, of Rosarios, makes his own blend coffee

Kai Phillips at Crystals, where you’ll find museumquality mineral specimens and jewellery

“It would be great to see an organic supermarket here.”

Lisha Wu at Tealith “We love photography, and, although you can leave your camera film with us and it gets sent to Photographique in Bristol (a good film-developing company), it would be great to have a photography shop on our doorstep.”

Adrian Campbell-Howard at Society Café “We’d love to see a deli nearby.”

James Eacott at C the World “We’d like a cocktail bar in the area.”

Emiliano Tunno at Dough “Personally, I’d love a craft ale micro pub to open up. Purely for selfish reasons.”

Scott Bartram at Popclub Vintage

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 37

STREET LIFE

“Where else could you buy a pizza, a dog collar, a sofa and a unicorn charm all within minutes of each other”

Guy Douglas, at The Silver Shop, found a trap door in his shop that stretches out underneath Union Street

FEEL AT HOME

For the household, stop off at Sofa.com and Feather & Black, and find room-beautifying creations at new art space Maven Gallery, on Northumberland Place.

“We exhibit three main artists at present,” says Joshua Bright, sales director at the gallery.

“We’re renovating an upstairs exhibition space that independent artists will be able to hire to hold shows of their own. Our artists include Irene Marsh, whose incredible watercolours of Bath feature depictions of Northumberland Place [pictured on page 35].”

WHY THEY LOVE IT…

The business owners we spoke to pretty much all agree that the reason they chose to open their shops here was because of the off-thebeaten-path feel to the location and the eclectic company they’d be entering into.

“I’ve always thought of the lanes as being similar to Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books,” says Adrian Campbell-Howard, the owner of Society Café. “There are some really interesting shops; the sort of independent shops which all have a passion for what they do; shops you only find by exploring and getting away from the high street.”

“It’s full of local characters,” adds Rosario Bavetta, proprietor of Rosarios Cafe. “There’s a bustling, safe, friendly vibe that makes the place enchanting. I chose this as my business space because it was a small and cosy venue; I just had a good feeling about it.

James Eacott, marketing manager at The

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

PHOTO COURTESY OF PUG & PUFFIN

Croissanterie, and lunch or dinner at Greek restaurant Jars Meze, at pizza place Dough, and at small Italian café Rosarios.

Stop for a pint at “Bath’s smallest pub”, Coeur De Lion, people-watch while sipping on a speciality flat white at Society Café, and, at Tealith, partake in an authentic bubble tea – co-owner Lisha Wu says one of their most popular toppings is tapioca, “A lot of people are skeptical to even try it, as the name reminds them of bad pudding memories. But, trust us, our recipe is nothing like that.”

Seriously, get down to Pug & Puffin if you’re a pet lover

DID YOU KNOW…

“There used to be a small stream running down the middle of Union Street – like the one in Silver Street in Frome – handy for washing away the slops flung from upstairs windows (then, not now!).

Guy Douglas at The Silver Shop “William Friese-Greene began work with John Arthur Roebuck Rudge to develop the Chronophotographic camera, which was able to take up to 10 photographs per second using perforate

celluloid film. In 1875, you would have found, at No 7 The Corridor, William’s photographic studio.” www.thecorridorbath. co.uk “The Corridor is one of the oldest retail arcades, dating back to 1825, and was the site of an IRA bombing in 1974.”

James Eacott at C the World “We’ve had some wellknown faces in the shop, including Joan Collins, Noel Edmonds, Anne Hathaway and George Lucas; George bought some silver star necklaces

for staff in his latest film!”

Guy Douglas at The Silver Shop “We offer our own blend Italian coffee.”

Rosario Bavetta at Rosarios Cafe “The original architecture of The Corridor’s high street entrance, with its marble columns and stained-glass sign, makes it one of the city’s most Instagrammed places. It had a few famous traders in its day, including J Breeze Esq. who ran an advert in 1849 to tell Bathonians of his invention of hair dye.”

Emiliano Tunno at Dough

© PAOLO FERL A

STREET LIFE

It’s all about that base at Dough

PHOTO COURTESY OF SOCIET Y CAFÉ

“I’ve always thought of the lanes as being similar to Diagon Alley in Harry Potter,” Corridor’s travel company C the World, adds that the like-minded neighbouring businesses were a huge draw for them to open here, as was the historical aspect of the area.

Sip a speciality coffee while you people-watch at Society Café

DID YOU KNOW…

“Union Passage was once called Cock Lane because there was an inn where cock-fighting took place. Once the poor birds had moved out, the name raised too many sniggers, and it was changed to Union Passage.”

Guy Douglas at The Silver Shop

“There’s a basement under our shop, which stretches out beneath Union Passage. It was last accessed through a trap door in 2001 by my father. The stairs had rotted away but there was an old stove down there and beautiful flagstones.”

Guy Douglas at The Silver Shop

“We operate seven days a week, 52 weeks of the year, only closing on Christmas Day.” Jo Harrod Bertinet at Bertinet Bakery

“Because our shop space was initially a jewellers, the floor lifts up on the first floor to reveal glass window lights that would have provided more light for the jeweller.”

Marcus Warden at Flock

“The area has had the same layout since Medieval times, which is why the lanes are so narrow. Also, Jane Austen described Union Passage as ‘this interesting passageway’, and she would have visited the area many times.”

Lisha Wu at Tealith

“There’s a rumour that Northumberland Place is actually the oldest street in Bath.

Apparently, the coat of arms on the building next to me belongs to the Grand Old Duke of York. I have heard from the tour guides that he owned the building but never lived in it.”

Rosario Bavetta at Rosarios Cafe “The shop manager is an actual pug.”

Jenny Wiscombe at Pug & Puffin

SOMETHING DIFFERENT

As far as Jody Cory at Jody Cory Goldsmiths is concerned, the stand-out aspect of the lanes is their thriving independent, artisan boutiques, restaurants and cafés, making it a one-stop spot for shoppers. Pug & Puffin’s Jenny Wiscombe agrees, saying there’s no point in coming to Bath if all you’re going to do is visit chain stores, which you can see in any other city, come for the tucked-away quirks instead.

Guy Douglas, the owner of The Silver Shop adds, “Due to its medieval layout, the area is full of small units, so it attracts indies and offers one of the richest concentrations of businesses in Bath. Where else could you buy a pizza, a dog collar, a sofa and a unicorn charm all within minutes of each other?”

“When we first arrived in 2016, The Corridor was really quiet, but as lots of new and interesting businesses opened up here, it’s now really busy, which is great,” says Emiliano Tunno, co-owner of Dough. “We’re lucky as we have two entrances – one on Northumberland Place and one in The Corridor – we just love the feel of the space.”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 41

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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

THINK PIECE

Widely considered as the progenitor of modern sculpture, Auguste Rodin was a radical and innovative artist who challenged the rules. A n exhibition at The Holborne Museum – Rodin: Rethinking The Fragment, on tour from The British Museum – looks at how, after studying the fragments of ancient Greece and Rome, he turned the limbless, headless torso into a new art form, rooted in the idea that a fragment – an incomplete figure or even an isolated hand – could be a work of art in its own right.

The Thinker (pictured), one of the French sculptor’s best-known and most memorable pieces (often, of course, used as an image to represent philosophy – but is he deep in thought, or mourning?), takes centre stage in what is sure to be another fascinating insight into the great man’s oeuvre.

Rodin: Rethinking The Fragment is at The Holborne Museum, Bath, from 2 November – 27 January 2019.

For more: www.holburne.org

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

WHAT’S ON 15 September – 14 October

Artist Peter Brown will be exhibiting at the RUH

EXHIBITIONS

Mon-Sun 8am-8pm; Art at the Heart of the RUH; www.artatruh.org

MODERN ARTBUYER POP-UP Featuring an inspiring selection of contemporary paintings and prints from modern ArtBuyer’s roster of artists, including Plum Neasmith, Maria Rivans, Bonnie and Clyde, Paul Minott, Rebecca King.

Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm; 23 Milsom Place; www.modernartbuyer.com

Until 6 October

LYNNE CARTLIDGE RCA: AUTUMN LIGHT Better known for her flower and still life studies, Cartlidge’s new body of work focuses on the quality and pattern of autumnal light in the city.

Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Axle Arts; www.axlearts.com

Until 26 September

Until 6 October

Until 16 September

FUNDRAISING AUCTION Bath Artists’ Studios (BAS) and Art at the Heart (AATH) are teaming up once again to stage a new art auction featuring up to 50 selected works, including pieces from Bathbased artists Peter Brown and Nick Cudworth. Proceeds from the auction (50 per cent of all sales made) will contribute to the work of two charitable arts organisations.

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

VOLKHARDT MÜLLER – THE PLANTATION Multimedia artist Volkhardt Müller is known for his interest in landscape and how it informs our cultural identity. Expect video, mixed media and print in this picturesque and sublime exhibition which explores the plantation forests of Devon; Mon-Sat 10am-4pm; Black Swan Arts; www.blackswanarts.co.uk

Until 13 October

VISIONS OF SCIENCE Works from UK artists that reflect, represent, capture or depict modernday scientific phenomena, as studied by academics at the University’s Faculty of Science. Tues-Sat 11am5pm; Andrew Brownsword Gallery; The Edge; www.edgearts.org

Until 21 October

BATH TO BAGHDAD An eclectic collection of art formed

by Ellen Tanner following her journey to the Middle East in the 1890s, including luxurious textiles, delicate carved woodwork, elaborate metalwork and more, on display for the first time following a major conservation project.

Open daily10am-5pm; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

Until 28 October

SIDE BY SIDE: AMERICA

AND WORLD WAR I Marking the 100th anniversary of America’s first major military engagement, this exhibition uncovers the relationship between the US and Europe, reflecting on those who went into battle and those who stayed at home. 10am-5pm; various prices, The American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org

Until 28 October

THE BECKFORD WOMEN Exhibition exploring the lives of the women who influenced – and were influenced by – art collector, author, builder and all-round English eccentric William Beckford.

Various times, Beckford’s Tower; www.beckfordstower.org.uk

Until 28 October

FACE TO FACE WITH ANGELA CONNER Exhibition of intimate work by

© HUGO GLENDENNING

WHAT’S ON

ABOVE: Jonathan Pryce and Eileen Atkins star in The Height of the Storm LEFT: Pieces at the Bath to Bagdad exhibition at the Holburne Museum BELOW: Police Dog Hogan will be playing at Komedia

celebrated sculptor Angela Conner, promoting Anglo-American understanding. Subjects include the British royal family, actor Sir Laurence Olivier, James Bond writer Ian Fleming and American president Abraham Lincoln, among others.

10am-5pm, The American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org

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 truly inspires them. 1-5pm weekdays, 10am5pm weekends, various prices, Herschel Museum of Astronomy; www.herschelmuseum.org.uk

Until 12 November

5 October

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.

Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun noon-5pm, £5 adults, £4 seniors, The Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk

Until 25 November

‘HUMAN NATURE’ TRAIL A sculpture trail in the beautiful inner gardens will see 10 striking pieces of art from a disparate group of sculptors, including pieces by Lynn Chadwick, one of the giants of 20th-century sculpture, and Jon Buck, RWA and a Fellow of the Royal Society of British Sculptors.

Open daily, 10am-4pm; price included in standard admission, the Bishops’s Palace, Wells; www.bishopspalace.org.uk

Until 25 November

MAKING ART MATTER Showcasing the graphic works and illustrations of Bath-based artists (also husband and wife) Clifford and Rosemary Ellis, whose artistic partnership spanned more than five decades. The pair loved bright and bold design, and their imagery reveals an overwhelming interest in, and love of, the British countryside.

10.30am-5pm, £4.50 (concs available), Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 30 November

THE ART OF THE CIRCLE Featuring work by artists Howard Jeffs, Stephen Magrath and Kirsten Murphy, using the shape of the circle as a connecting theme. The natural circles of the sun and moon have always been observed in our history, and this collection uses the fixed, powerful shape to display a range of prints. Circle Bath Hospital; www.artatruh.org

Until 1 January 2019

WONDER WOMEN OF SPACE A free exhibition celebrating the

AN ARTIST’S ADVENTURE IN RURAL CHINA – CHINESE FOLK MEDICINE While staying at Kunming Botanical Gardens, a chance encounter with an ethnobotanist led Caroline Frances-King to spend six months painting herbs used as natural health remedies. In this illustrated talk, Caroline will talk about how her interest in botanical art took her to China and some of the challenges she faced there.

7pm-8pm, Public £6; Friends/Students £4, Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk

10-22 October

IMPRESSIONS OF WATER Water is a key feature in the landscapes of both Bath and its twin town Alkmaar (the Netherlands) thus making it the natural choice for a theme in this exhibition. The display of prints will showcase the artists’ interpretation of water and will be enhanced by illustrative quotations, in poetry and prose.

Mon-Sat 10am-4pm; Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution; www.bathartistprintmakers.co.uk

11-14 October

ATMOSPHERICS: CATHERINE BEALE Award-winning Bath-based painter Catherine Beale’s solo exhibition celebrates the power of modern pigments and dramatic weather over our city. This luminous exhibition also features new portraits from the Society of Women Artists exhibition at London’s Mall Galleries. 10am6pm; 44AD artspace; www.44ad.net

FAMILY

Until 16 September

SKY SAFARI The spectacular Sky Safari is returning and this year it promises to be bigger than ever. Over 150 balloons of all shapes, sizes and colours will be taking to the skies above Longleat to ensure stunning views. Stay to the evening to enjoy the Night Glows event, which will see the balloons floating up into a

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

WHAT’S ON night sky, firing their burners to an amazing soundtrack.

Included with a Day Ticket, Longleat; www.longleat.co.uk

22-23 September

changes forever after searing revelations emerge.

Various times; Ustinov studio; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

WILTSHIRE GAME AND COUNTRY FAIR Fishing, falconry and ferret-racing are just some of the activities on offer for children at the country Fair at Bowood House. There will be a Food Glorious Food area with delicious food halls, cookery demonstrations a real ale bar for the grown-ups.

Various prices, Bowood House, Calne; www.wiltshiregameandcountryfair.co.uk

MUSIC

28 September-7 October

21 September

BATH CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FESTIVAL The largest dedicated children’s literature festival in Europe is back.

David Walliams, Lauren Child, Dermot O’leary and a whole host of children’s authors will be visiting Bath to inspire young readers.

Various times & locations; www.bathfestivals.org.uk

PLAYS/SHOWS 18-29 September

THE HEIGHT OF THE STORM Opening in Bath immediately prior to the West End, Florian Zeller’s compelling family drama – a searing exploration of love, compassion and the fragility of life – stars Jonathan Pryce and Eileen Atkins, two of the greatest British actors of their generation.Various times; Main House, Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

26-29 September

ARCADIA Described as the “greatest play of our age” (The Independent), Tom Stoppard’s imperious tour de force dances back and forth across the centuries, exploring time, truth, love, literature – and the disruptive influence of sex on all other things we know about life. Presented by the award-winning Bath Operatic and Dramatic Society. 7.30pm; £10, Rondo Theatre; www.rondotheatre.co.uk

3 October-3 November

IN PRAISE OF LOVE Robert Lindsay and Tara Fitzgerald star in Terence Rattigan’s last play, a powerful drama about marriage and the hidden truths and veiled emotions that lie within it. Set over the course of two evenings, married couple Sebastian and Lydia’s, relationship fundamentally

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

19 September

BILL RYDER-JONES Formerly guitarist with The Coral, now a fully-fledged troubadour under his own steam, with nods to Super Furry Animals, Richard Hawley and Noel Gallagher.

8pm; £15; Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org OAS-IS & STEREOIRONICS Oas-is is a UK tribute to Manchester’s finest rock band.

They will be belting out all the classics, with appropriate swagger.

StereoIronics have been rocking the UK for over 15 years and will be performing the extensive back catalogue with live extras from the popular Welsh band. A double bill to please any Indie nostalgic. 8pm-11pm; £13; Cheese & Grain, Frome; www. cheeseandgrain.com

23 September

MA POLAINE’S GREAT DECLINE That’s the best moniker ever. This blues and roots duo, with Beth Packer’s beguiling voice described as “a young Billie Holiday gatecrashing a Tom Waits Swordfishtrombones recording session”, are destined for great things. Check out their wonderful album, The Outsider, released earlier this year.

Free entry; The Bell; www.thebellinnbath.co.uk

28 September

THE URBAN VOODOO MACHINE A melting pot of mariachi horns, bourbon-soaked blues, punkabilly and country, sounding, says Classic Rock mag, like “Tom Waits, Nick Cave and Dick Dale enjoying a burlesque all-nighter with Ennio Morricone.” So that’ll be one not to miss, then.

8pm; £12-£14; Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org

5 October

POLICE DOG HOGAN This high-energy and eclectic eight-piece band, combining fiddle, trumpet, mandolin, drums and guitars with four-part harmonies will have toes tapping with their fusion of

ABOVE: Catherine Beale Illuminations at 44AD artspace LEFT: Volkhardt Müller’s art at Black Swan Arts BELOW: Olive Webb In the Depths at the Impressions of Water Exhibition

nick cudworth gallery

Brunel in Bath Oil on canvas also giclee print 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 TOP: Chainsaw carving at the Wiltshire Game and Country Show TV chef Gregg Wallace is just one of the speakers at the Achieve event BELOW: Part of the ‘Human Nature’ trail at Bishop’s Palace

country, pop, folk, and rocking urban bluegrass. Exuberant.

7pm; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

COMEDY 18 September

BRING YOUR OWN BABY The UK’s premier baby friendly comedy club is coming to Bath.

Comedy stars from the circuit and TV will be entertaining mums and dads, while the babies will be having a jolly time, too, with the games and toys provided.

Doors open 11.15am, show starts 12pm; prices vary, Komedia Bath; www.komedia.co.uk

20 September

DYLAN MORAN Return of the BAFTA and Perrier Award-winning “Oscar Wilde of comedy” with his new tour, Dr Cosmos, looking at love, politics, misery and the everyday absurdities of life, delivered with typically deadpan panache.

Doors 6.30pm; £25; Komedia Bath; www.komedia.co.uk

22 September

JAMALI MADDIX As seen on Live At The Apollo, the critically acclaimed comedian promises brutally honest and unflinching material on the state of society, along with personal tales of hate and moral confrontation from his travels around the world.

8pm; £12-14; Rondo Theatre; www.rondotheatre.co.uk

OTHER

Until 23 September

JANE AUSTEN FESTIVAL The annual festival returns with more Austen-related fun. Visit Austen’s old haunts, learn about the dos and dont’s of regency etiquette, attend a dance workshop, have lunch at Longbourn, and go to a ball.

Make sure to turn out and watch the Grand Regency Costumed Charity Promenade which sees 600 or more ladies and gents walking through the streets of Bath in period costume. A must for Austen fans (See page 56 for more details).

Various locations in and around Bath, tickets on sale at Bath Box Office; www.janeaustenfestivalbath.co.uk

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

17 September

WINE TASTING- OFF THE BEATEN TRACK Those keen to improve their palate and become something of a connoisseur may wish to head to the wine tasting evening where a selection of sumptuous wines will be selected and presented, with a focus on well-known grape varieties but from lesser known wine regions.

7.30pm-9.30pm, £20 in advance, Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org/events

22 September

KITCHEN CONFIDENCE: A BEGINNERS’ CLASS Fun, hands-on class designed to help you prepare a range of simple family suppers. Attendees will learn how to cook a roast chicken with five different twists and perfect a fish chowder. Class includes lunch and wine and lots of recipe ideas.

10am, £170, The Bertinet Kitchen; www.thebertinetkitchen.com

22-23 September

1940S WEEKEND The 1904s weekend kicks off with vintage vehicles and re-enactor displays, music from Jayne Darling and the Cats Pyjamas and the chance to meet ‘Winston Churchill’ and ‘King George VI.’ Steam train rides are also taking place throughout the day and attendees can enjoy a free vintage bus ride from Keynsham.

Avon Valley Railway, Bitton station; www.avonvalleyrailway.org

23 September

CIRCUIT OF BATH WALK Now in its 17th year, this spectacular sponsored walk, traversing Bath’s bucolic surrounds, is one of Julian House’s most popular fundraising events, with over 500 people taking part last year.

Various points in and around Bath; www.julianhouse.org.uk

13-14 October

ACHIEVE A unique line-up of celebrity and industry expert will be giving talks on all things health, wealth and happiness. Speakers include Martin Roberts, Greg Wallace, Helen Lederer, and Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards. Visitors will also be able to sign up to interactive workshops.

Brunel’s Old Station (The Passenger Shed), Bristol; www.achieve.co.uk ■

© GALLERY PANGOLIN

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City of arcades

When did you last explore Cardiff? The city’s seven unique Victorian and Edwardian Arcades have been attracting shoppers for over a century

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isiting Cardiff’s arcades couldn’t be easier, just an hour from Bath or 50 minutes from Bristol by train. Set in the heart of the city and a short walk from the railway station, the arcades contain over 100 independent stores, eateries and bars making it easy to see why Cardiff is known as the City of Arcades.

Built between 1858 and 1921, the arcades were originally home to Cardiff’s fortune tellers and apothecaries before becoming the bright and airy shopping malls of the Victorian and Edwardian era. As you walk through the different arcades, you’ll notice the varying architectural styles; from the stunning hand-painted gothic style floors of Duke Street arcade, which links Cardiff Castle to the High Street; to the balconies and arches of Castle Arcade.

Escape the hustle and bustle and remember how great shopping can be as you wander through each arcade.

Start the day with breakfast at one of the many independent cafés, such as Waterloo Tea, recently voted the Cardiffian’s favourite arcadebased business, in Wyndham Arcade. Alongside a breakfast menu including smashed avocado and Turkish eggs, they also serve a range of over 60 teas sourced from India, China, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and Japan.

Housing some of Cardiff’s unique clothing stores, fashion lovers will find everything from the vintage styles of Princes and Paupers and Sobeys Vintage, through to more contemporary designs at boutique designer store Dot Clothing, alongside big names like Pretty Green and Fred Perry.

Brides-to-be are spoilt for choice, with several bridal stores and jewellers including Perfection Bridal and contemporary jewellers Brooklinde Designer Goldsmiths. Grooms-to-be should head to Hawkes Essentials to find their perfect

The shops in Morgan Arcade

Castle Arcade exterior and interior

“BUILT BETWEEN 1858 AND 1921, THE ARCADES WERE ORIGINALLY HOME TO CARDIFF’S FORTUNE TELLERS AND APOTHECARIES” suit, with The Brogue Trader providing the dancing shoes, whilst the mother-of-the-bride and bridesmaids will enjoy a glass of prosecco at Nine Yards.

Lunch is an international affair, with American style subs and hoagies at New York Deli, Italian pasta and pizza at Café Minuet or Viennese pastries and open sandwiches at Wally’s Delicatessen and Kaffeehaus. Vegans will love the plant-based options at Crumbs café serving up everything from brunch through to dinner.

Stroll through the many specialist shops, stocking everything from art supplies at The Pen and Paper and board games at Rules of Play through to music store PMT and Cuban cigar shop Havana House. Take in a piece of Cardiff’s history with a visit to Spillers Records, the oldest record store in the world.

You can easily make a weekend of it by staying at Hotel Indigo which is situated in Dominions Arcade. It combines traditional and contemporary Welsh aesthetics to create the perfect place to stay. Dine at the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill, located on the hotel’s top floor, before finishing off the evening with a bespoke cocktail at Gin & Juice in Castle Arcade. ■

Still need help planning your visit? Go to www.thecityofarcades.com to explore the full list of businesses and hear from some of the owners themselves.Share your stories, photos and memories with FOR Cardiff by using #cityofarcades and see Cardiff from a new angle. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 53

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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ots of families, business travellers and property owners are benefiting from earning additional income from their homes but without the hassle of doing it themselves thanks to Airsorted, a dedicated host management service in Bath.

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

Is Jane Austen just for girls? What was her romantic life really like?

And did the writer love or hate Bath anyway?

To find out, we caught up with Jackie Herring, director of Bath’s annual Jane Austen Festival – running for 10 days from 14 September, and now in its 18th year – and cheerleader for all things Jane…

Words by Matt Bielby

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

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urrey lass Jackie Herring has been in Bath for over 30 years now, has long been fascinated by 18th century history – she’s currently working towards a Masters – and adores art. She also helped run the Jane Austen Centre on Gay Street for years. With a husband and son both into hockey in a big way, it’s always chaos in her house come September, with both the annual Jane Austen Festival, which she curates, and the hockey season starting at the same time.

“For a short while,” she says, “our house is filled with both stinky goalkeeper kit and sweetly perfumed period costumes.”

How did you first get into Jane Austen?

I was 16, and my best friend and I had been swapping books; she handed me Pride and Prejudice, saying, ‘It’s better than Jilly Cooper!’

And she was right. I was hooked, and still remember coming to the end of P&P and feeling disappointed that I’d never be able to read it for the first time again. Until then, I don’t think I’d ever felt that way about a book – and I’m not sure I have since.

What’s so good about Austen, then?

In my collection of memorabilia, I have a tea-towel with ‘Keep calm and read Jane Austen’ on it – and it’s so true!

P.D. James saw a similar one when visiting the Jane Austen Centre, and said that she’d done just that during the war.

For Austen to have become, and remained, such a beloved author despite only producing six novels is phenomenal.

Personally, I put it down to her wit. Her books are very funny, with a lovely flow to her writing – the words tumble off the page in a very pleasing manner – and her characters are very strong too. They’re all utterly believable, and somehow timeless. Her writing is extremely clever, especially for someone supposedly lacking in education. Through Professor John Mullan’s discussions on Austen at the festival, I’ve come to appreciate just how superb she was technically.

On a day like this one, the Regency dedication to hats, helmets and bonnets really comes into its own

What would you say to someone who sees Jane Austen as a bit of romance fiction cliché?

Austen isn’t for everyone; certainly, more women than men enjoy her work. For most people, though, I’d say Pride and Prejudice is the best place to start, full of wonderful scenes – Mr Bennet’s teasing of his wife; Mr Collins’ proposal; Lady Catherine’s confrontation with Lizzy… After that, it doesn’t matter which order you read them in, but if you want to go in order of publication, it’s Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, Emma, and finally Northanger Abbey & Persuasion.

So is Pride & Prejudice your favourite novel?

I love them all – and my favourite is usually the one I’ve just re-read, most recently Persuasion. I’ve read them all several times, and find them old friends who give comfort in times of upset. These days, I also like listening to them on audio, which is really relaxing. Each time you find something new. I collect old editions too, and have quite a few of various ages – including a 1st edition of Northanger Abbey & Persuasion.

What do you think of the adaptations and spin-offs?

I tend not to read many spin-offs of Austen, though there are a couple of exceptions – mostly by authors who’ve set the action at the Jane Austen Festival, so I have to read those! I would, however, recommend Jo Baker’s Longbourn – Pride and Prejudice from the servants’ point of view; a terrific read.

Of the film and TV adaptations, the BBC’s 1995 version of Pride and Prejudice is still the best – it had the advantage of being a series, and thus could incorporate more of the book – but their version of Persuasion, with Kieran Hinds and Amanda Root the same year, is also good. I love Emma Thompson and Ang Lee’s film version of Sense and Sensibility – the 2008 BBC version was excellent too – and

another favourite is the Gwyneth Paltrow Emma. I’m not, unfortunately, keen on any of the Mansfield Park or Northanger Abbey adaptations, though the 2016 film Love and Friendship – based on the epistolary novel, Lady Susan – is great fun, as are some of the films inspired by Austen, like Bride and Prejudice (great dancing!) and, of course, the Bridget Jones series.

Tell us about the two novels set, partially, in Bath.

“Her books are very funny, with a lovely flow to her writing”

Northanger Abbey – actually the first novel written – was sold to a publisher who failed to print it; it was later retrieved, and published posthumously with Persuasion, Austen’s last complete novel. Together, these two are known as the Bath novels, and not only mention places that still exist today, but are also strong on the manners and habits of the 18th century. For someone visiting or living in Bath, particularly if you’re interested in history, they’re another ideal starting point, as you can literally follow in Austen’s footsteps.

What was the first Jane Austen Festival like?

It was the idea of David Baldock of the Jane Austen Centre back in 2001, and was held over a weekend at the Centre in Gay Street. No-one, apart from the staff and a few performers, wore costume, and it wasn’t until 2004, and the first Promenade, that the public began dressing up.

And it’s been getting bigger ever year?

After that first weekend, the festival was extended to 10 days, and it’s been that length ever since. At first, I was working

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THE BIG INTERVIEW behind the scenes, then took over in 2008 as festival director.

It’s a great job, and there have been many memorable moments over the years. We got a Guinness World Record in 2009 for the largest gathering of people dressed in Regency costume – 409 in the Ballroom at the Assembly Rooms – and, in 2011, the MasterChef contestants made lunch for all the Promenaders.

Tell us a bit about the costumes…

Regency costume is quite easy to wear, and flattering for everyone as it has a high waist line and comes down to the ankle. I don’t pretend to be someone else when in costume, but I do become more ladylike. I’ll never cross my arms or put my hands on my hips, for instance, though there’s no getting away from using a mobile phone. Most of my costumes have been specifically made for me – my mother used to be a dressmaker – and the gloves and stockings can be purchased online, while modern ballet pumps make suitable footwear.

It sounds like it could take over your life…

It’s true that I find myself spending more time looking for Regency-style jewellery than any other sort! We have a Fayre in the Guildhall on the first Saturday of the festival, where essential items like hats can be purchased, and I’m lucky that my friend, Felicite, makes historic wigs, and lends me one to wear for the masked ball each year. On other occasions I either wear a hat or, when indoors, a turban I made out of a recycled summer bonnet. I particularly like the long-sleeved jackets, known as Spencers, and the full-length Pelisse coats. People spend all year making them, and accumulate numerous outfits over the years – men as well as women – and the tailoring is often magnificent. It’s amazing what the more magnificent headdresses can be made of, too.

Yeah, about the men’s outfits…

They’re a little more difficult to put together. Men need a jacket with a stand-up collar, a hat, a floppy shirt, tight-fitting trousers and shoes with buckles. No matter how complicated or otherwise the costume, though, the most important thing is that you’ve made an effort. There’s one gorgeous little dog, who brings his owner along, who wears lots of outfits, too.

Jackie sports one of her friend Felicite’s amazing historic wigs at the Masked Ball

So, fess up. Did Jane Austen really hate Bath? Some tour guides delight in telling us she didn’t take to it…

She once wrote, “It will be two years tomorrow since we left Bath for Clifton, with what happy feelings of escape,” which many have mistakenly interpreted as her not liking the city. The thing was, Austen’s family situation after the death of her father, Rev George Austen, was precarious, and they had little money – Jane, her sister Cassandra and their mother had to rely on her brothers for income. It was not a happy time: they were grieving and had to move lodgings a few times before leaving the city. At other times, though, she liked it. She used the city in two of her novels, enjoyed staying with her brother in Bath, and liked attending the theatre and concerts. It was from her excellent knowledge of the city that she was able to use that familiarity in the books.

So, what will this year’s festival be like?

It celebrates the novel Persuasion which, though published in December 1817, was printed with the date of 1818. Apart from the Promenade – of course! – my particular favourite events would include the dance classes at the Assembly Rooms, Box Tale Soup’s theatrical production of Northanger Abbey, and the public readings of Persuasion in Waterstones.

Then there’s also the Masked Ball; opera singer Rosie Lomas singing at The Holburne; Chamber Opera Chicago’s production of Persuasion: A Musical Drama; and a very special – and brand new – finale provided by the Natural Theatre Company, called Darcy’s Ball. All in all there are over 80 events, and we expect to sell over 3,500 tickets to people who’ll have come from as far afield as Nova Scotia, Russia and France. Around 380 have signed up for the Parade too, and will be joined by the re-enactment group of the 33rd Foot, who are camping at The Holburne.

Any dreams for future festivals?

We’ve had some lovely guests and receive great support from Adrian Lukis – who played Mr Wickham in the BBC’s famous version of Pride and Prejudice – but, of course, the dream guests would be the likes of Colin Firth or Emma Thompson. I’ve always wanted to hold a concert and fireworks party at Sydney Gardens, too, similar to the one

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Jane attended to celebrate King George III’s birthday in 1799. As 2020 will be the 20th anniversary of the festival, I’m hoping we can have it in the programme then.

Finally, if we could have interviewed Jane Austen herself for this piece, what should we have asked her?

“Austen is an enigma.

There are a few facts about her life”

Austen is an enigma. There are a few facts about her life but, unfortunately, intimate details are missing, as many letters to friends and family were destroyed or edited by her niece and sister. And only six novels were completed, with Sanditon – which was named by a family member – never completed.

It would certainly be interesting to know what she had in mind for that story, and it would also be intriguing to know if the rumours about her being fond of Tom Lefroy were true.

Plus, did she ever meet a potential suitor in Devon…? n The Jane Austen Festival runs from 14 – 23 September.

Programmes and tickets available at Bath Box Office or at www.janeaustenfestivalbath.co.uk

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FILM

FROM FAR LEFT:

You probably shouldn’t watch Little Stranger on your own; Michael Caine leads a stellar cast in King of Thieves; The Wife has already been tipped for an Oscar nomination

Fall flicks

As we head into autumn, the Little have some lovely films to snuggle up with, as well as a horror to chill you to your bones…

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irst up, we have heist film King of Thieves. With a stellar cast – including Michael Gambon, Jim Broadbent and Ray Winstone, and led by Michael Caine – it tells the incredible true story of the 2015 Hatton Garden heist. Taking a closer look at the diamond heist and the aftermath compared to 2017’s The Hatton Garden Job of the same subject, this film has great comical moments balanced perfectly with the factual truths of the story.

After a family bereavement, career criminal Brian Reader (Caine) reconnects with an old acquaintance, Basil (Charlie Cox), who has a plan to rob the vaults.

Basil needs Brian and his seasoned cohorts to pull off the heist. But as the crime continues, the police slowly build up their case.

Up next, we have Little Stranger, a mournful ghost story set in post-war Britain. Domhnall Gleeson plays Faraday, a young doctor who is very different from the other relaxed, worldly, mannered medics. Faraday finds himself back in the village where he grew up, and his first house-call is to Hundreds Hall mansion. A maid servant, Betty (Liv Hill), is complaining of terrible stomach pains, but after Faraday’s no-nonsense examination, he declares she is either lying or exaggerating,

but could it be something darker?

Later, Faraday meets with an old family friend, Rod Ayers (Will Poulter), a former RAF pilot who was severely burnt in combat. He grumpily complains about his home deteriorating, as does his mother and sister. All three of them seem to slowly be going mad in their own ways, driven to the brink by something within the house.

Faraday’s obsessed with a childhood memory of attending a party at Hundreds Hall, accidentally breaking a picture frame and being caught by Rod and his adored sister, Suki, who died eight years later of diphtheria.

It is this obsession that haunts him and causes him to experience some supernatural occurrences.

Little Stranger shows how the tensions and rigidities of the English class system create the atmosphere of denial, incubating the horror; a stratum of society that holds on to the past is ripe for haunting. This is an elegant, sinister tale that you shouldn’t watch alone.

Lastly, we have the intelligent and sophisticated The Wife, starring Glenn Close and Jonathan Pryce as the Castlemans; we follow them to Sweden for Joe (Pryce) to collect his Nobel Prize. While on the flight, however, they’re approached by a stalker-fan that wants Joe to cooperate with his wartsand-all biography that he’s writing about

“It reflects the power of women and is tipped for an Oscar nomination”

him. Joe contemptuously declines, but Joan (Close) is much more diplomatic with her response. This key moment is when things start to fall apart for the Castlemans.

The film flashes back periodically to the ’50s and ’60s, showing a young Joan taking a creative writing class with the young professor Joe Castleman, who’s already married. After flirting with him and submitting outrageously seductive short stories to his class, the two start their affair, and later, of course, Joan becomes wife number two. It’s because of this that Joan is permanently suspicious of Joe’s wandering, quite rightly, with Joe continuing to stray up until the Nobel Prize ceremony.

We’re shown Joan’s struggles as a young ambitious female writer, being told she’ll never be taken seriously, with sexism being rife in the literature business. It further highlights the tensions in her and Joe’s relationship, perfectly portrayed by Close and Pryce.

Already being hailed as one of Close’s best performances, her portrayal as the pushed-aside woman draws us into the heart of a heroine who’s not going to take it anymore. This drama certainly reflects the power of women, and it’s already tipped for an Oscar nomination.

Sophie-Claire McLeod is duty and marketing manager at The Little Theatre, 1–2 St Michael’s Place; 01225 466822;

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ROOTED CAFE Expect no meat and no preaching at this creative new opening, which is already flourishing Words by Lisa Evans, images by Harry Cooper

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he last time I became irate over a vegetable was when I was about four years old and didn’t want to eat my broccoli. I’m incensed again today, at Rooted Cafe, but this time I am fighting for my share of greens.

I’ve stopped being polite and am shamefully grabbing as much of the lemon- and chilli salt-dressed cavolo nero ‘crackling’ appetiser as I can. My husband and I are both yanking the plate away from each other, and words are starting to get heated, “Hang on, you just took two whole strips, and I’ve only had a little piece so far,” I lie, and he flings the crisp Italian kale down in grievous offence. “Fine, have it all.”

The atmosphere feels as tense as it does during a game of Monopoly, and we realise we should rethink our mezze sharing board order.

We feign happy families when Rooted’s owner, Nick Peters, comes over for a chat. A vegetarian himself, Nick, who like anyone who hasn’t been living in outer space for the past decade, has been aware of the resurgence of the veg-forward menu, and how people – especially students, many of whom happen to reside in this area – are consciously cutting down on meat. He opened his family-run vegetarian diner last

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month – after starting with The Grocer on Locksbrook – and says he’s astonished by how much love it’s getting already.

“There are over a hundred bums on seats during Sunday lunch alone,” he says. “It helps that we live on this road, and many of our customers are our supportive neighbours.

Everything here is sourced from local farms and suppliers; there’s no chemicals, no artificial junk. Just flavour.”

It boasts impressive environmental credentials, too; the furniture and décor in the trendy space was built by hand from recycled wood, and food waste is composted through local farms. The vibe and look reminds me of a super-hip Brighton café; vegetables decorate the windowsill, there are rainbow-coloured benches, and lightbulbs in jars hang from the ceiling. As for the menu (the entirety of which can be made vegan), it features wholesome dishes such as earth bowls, spaghetti squash, and sourdough pizzas.

The kitchen is headed up by Nick’s daughter’s partner, Sam Lewis – keeping it in the family – who was previously at The Bathwick Boatman. He and his team put effort into each flavour; restaurants serving meat are often guilty of treating plant-based ingredients as the supporting actors or cameo walk-ons rather than as the stars of the show, but here, every element is the centre of attention and of equal worth.

RESTAURANT

The hubby’s choice is the Korean BBQ hotdog, topped with tempura spring onions, chilli mayo and kimchi, and spiked with the strident nip of cucumber pickles and more than a tingle of ghost pepper hot sauce.

I go for the Jack stack, a brioche burger piled with the glistening meatiness of jerk BBQ jackfruit – which has a similar consistency to pulled pork. Inside, there’s also grilled cheddar which crisps up at the edges, a blob of guacamole, crunch and creaminess from red cabbage slaw, crispiness from onion rings and sweetness from flame-grilled pineapple.

We have a round of sweet potato fries, too. I’ve never printed the word OMG in a review before, but it’s needed here.

This is the dirtiest clean eating around; you’ll hold your arms aloft in jubilation at the knowledge you’re absorbing actual nutrients while you indulge in something that tastes so naughty.

Burgers and hotdogs are obviously ‘everyday’ grub, but, oh lordy, they’re insanely good. Simple stuff becomes sophisticated here, and people walking by outside are staring through the big windows with FOMO (sorry, I’ve opened the internet slang box now). My one negative, is that everything is served on too-small boards; so if your towering burger topples, or your hotdog falls apart as you take a bite, it’s all going to land on the table. Oh well.

For pud, mine’s a rich, hot hazelnut and praline brownie which comes with dreamy clouds of coconut cream, a jammy sauce, summer berries and almond brittle; and his is a hedgerow berry sundae with sticky granola and fresh fruit.

Rooted manages to avoid all the clichés of vegetarian eating – no dry nut roasts here – and doesn’t preach, and my husband – who has been to hundreds of reviews with me over the years, and who is a proper carnivore – says this is his favourite restaurant yet. Just like Jerry had Dorothy at ‘hello’, Rooted had us at cavolo nero; so try it, because YOLO (sorry, had to be done).n

“This is the dirtiest clean eating around”

DINING DETAILS Rooted Café, 20 Newbridge Road, Bath, BA1 3JX; 01225 425161; www.rootedcafe.co.uk In a nutshell A fresh new vegetarian joint that can make anything on its menu vegan We ate Korean hotdog, jackfruit burger, sweet potato fries, hazelnut and praline brownie, berry sundae Prices Starters £6; mains £8.25 – £12.95; desserts £5.95 Drinks There are suggested cocktails, and a very concise wine list Service/atmosphere Creative, trendy and bustling What else? There’s a a dynamic focus on seasonality, local sourcing and the environment Good to know We’ve heard it’s a favourite of a few Bath Rugby players

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

A piece of Eight Welcome to EIGHT, a hotel that’s big on the little things…

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orth Parade Passage is one of Bath’s most atmospheric and intriguing spots – an unassuming, cobbled street where the layers of history are writ large. It may be best known as the site of Bath’s oldest house, but Sally Lunn’s will soon have a new neighbour as townhouse hotel, Eight, prepares to open its doors.

With just eight rooms, this small, independent hotel has the homely feel of a private townhouse. And with so few other guests, service promises to be personal and intuitive.

This is a place where you are invited to settle in and relax into the rhythm of Bath living.

A LONG HISTORY Located on one of the city’s oldest streets, Eight has been carefully restored to blend new and old, the modern and medieval. Parts of the staircase date from when the building belonged to the Abbey, which can be seen from the back windows, beyond the rooftops of Ralph Allen’s house – another local landmark.

The building’s roots can also be seen in the softly-lit cellar bar. Today it’s a place for latenight cocktails, but the original stone walls first housed the Abbey refectory, where the monks once dined.

EIGHT ROOMS While its story dates back to the 14th century, Eight’s interiors are thoroughly up-to-date. The eight rooms are set in the Georgian addition to the original building, beautifully renovated to create a timeless yet contemporary look. Original features such as stone fireplaces stand alongside carefully selected furnishings and up-to-theminute creature comforts.

EIGHT DISHES As well as eight rooms, the hotel houses a restaurant serving an ever-changing menu of eight dishes. Each one of these small plates uses the best ingredients available right now from Britain’s fields, forests and coast. Eight recommends a selection of two, three or four dishes for dinner, paired with a glass or bottle from the extensive wine list.

AS UNIQUE A STAY AS THE CITY ITSELF

The Eight restaurant serves an ever-changing menu

Tucked away in the old town, Eight puts guests just a few twists and turns from sites such as the Roman Baths, Pump Rooms and Abbey.

And, as a member of Bath’s thriving collection of independent businesses, your hosts at Eight will always be ready with recommendations for their favourite local shops and galleries, cafés

and restaurants.

Whether you’ve come from afar or are seeking a weekend escape on your doorstep, Eight captures all that is unique and special about staying in Bath. After all, where else can you dine on the site of a medieval refectory, moments from the Roman Baths, drinking vintage wine while eating this morning’s catch? Eight is truly one of a kind. n Room rates start from £125 per night.

Restaurant is open from Tuesday to Sunday, evenings only. Call 01225 724111 or email info@eightinbath.co.uk for more details. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 69

Rooted Cafe and Supper Rooms Vegetarian & Vegan • Family Run • Community Based • Sustainable Open 8:30am–8:30pm daily (9am–4pm Sundays) 20 Newbridge Road, Bath, BA1 3JX rootedcafebath

rootedcafeandsupperrooms

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DELIGHTFUL DELIS For the best cheeses, cured meats and continental pastries, these guys have got you covered

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BLUE QUAILS DELI Since opening in 2011, this award-winning, family-run café/deli on Bridge Street has really established itself as one of the city’s go-to pit stops. As well as all manner of soups, quiches, frittatas, cakes and coffee, they do a mean chicken curry, and have one of the best salad bars around. Their indulgent hot chocolate is always right on the money too. www.bluequailsdeli.com

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THE FINE CHEESE CO. Artisan cheese specialists for 20 years, what this lot don’t know about cheese really isn’t worth knowing. With over 100 handmade British varieties, discovering your new favourite cheese is half the fun – check out the Devon Oke, a hard but creamy cows’ milk cheese made to the original 17th-century recipe. There’s also a well-stocked deli and the lovely café, with all manner of savoury and sweet treats, is a real gem. www.finecheese.co.uk

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THE ITALIAN FOOD HALL This small speciality food shop and deli sources top-notch artisan produce straight from Italy, and it’s a real foodie treasure trove of cured meats, cheeses, Italian cakes and pastries etc. They also run Italian language classes over supper – a great idea – as well as cookery and wine workshops. And, as if this

authentic Italian deli in Bath wasn’t enough, there’s also Avellinos on London Road, where you can get burrata from Puglia, and ice cream from Turin, among plenty of other goodies. www.theitalianfoodhall.com; @AvellinosDeli

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CHANDOS DELI One of our favourite haunts (and not only because it’s only a two-minute walk from the office), Chandos has a fantastic array of local and imported fare – fresh bread, oils, preserves etc – but also a lunch menu offering everything from savoury tarts and artisan sausage rolls, to delectable sweet potato and goats’ cheese scotch eggs. Fancy a tipple?

They also have a great selection of carefully chosen wines by the glass. Chin chin. www.chandosdeli.com

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GUILDHALL DELI Located at Bath’s Guildhall Market, this local institution sells an eclectic selection of lunchtime and takeaway snacks, including meaty specialities such as ham hocks, chitterlings and Bath chaps, alongside olives, antipasti, pies and pakoras, with plenty for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free eaters to pick at. And their scotch eggs – particularly the more-ish black pudding chilli one – are the business. n www.theguildhalldeli.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK NEWS

© TOPPING & COMPANY BOOKSELLERS OF BATH

Yotam Ottolenghi will be cooking up a storm

PRETTY IN PINK WELCOME TO BATH’S latest tearoom Sweet

Little Things. The eaterie is happily situated in the centre of town, on Lower Borough Walls, and specialises in afternoon tea and cakes, as well as serving up breakfast, lunch, ice cream and milkshakes.

A family-owned business, Sweet Little Things is run by a winning mother-anddaughter team, Fiona and Natalie Bonnici, who also own Bath’s Café au Lait. As well as as the sweet treats on offer, it is the décor that is most striking about the new spot. Think cool and dreamy, with vintage pink and an Instagram-friendly arch of flowers.

On starting up the new business, Fiona Bonnici says, “We realised there was a market for a vintage tearoom with a very modern twist.”

For more: www.facebook.com/SLTbath

FOODIE HEROES

The oh-so-pretty tea room

For aspiring culinary geniuses, Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath is hosting a multitude of events which will see some much-loved foodie experts coming to Bath over the next few months.

Renowned chef Yotam Ottolenghi will be talking about his new cookbook Ottolenghi Simple, which has 140 brand-new dishes that are beautiful, tasty and promise to be hassle-free.

Bake Off judge and trendy glasses wearer, Prue Leith will also be in town to chat about Prue, her first book in 25 years. The evening promises to be full of warmth, wit and laughter as Prue will be revealing funny stories about her life on and off screen as well as her favourite recipes.

Other foodie legends speaking at Topping events includes Gil Mellor, Niki Segnit, Rosemary Shrager, Anna Del Conte.

For more: www.toppingbooks.co.uk

MILK IT

© SWEET LIT TLE THINGS

Following more than 65 days of judging, the

results of the food awards Great Taste 2018 have been released, with many producers in the South West now celebrating.

One such winner was local Ivy House Farm in Frome, who were awarded a Great Taste 3-star for its “full bodied” unhomogenised Organic Jersey Whole Milk, which “tastes just like milk used to and should taste.”

Out of a record-breaking 12,634 products to be judged in 2018, 4,653 were awarded a highly prized Great Taste accolade, and a remarkable 451 are based in the South West.

The panel of judges this year included; MasterChef 2018 champion, Kenny Tutt, chef and food writer, Elly Curshen.

For more www.gff.co.uk

Got milk?

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

Pleased to be recommended in The Michelin Guide 2018 CHRISTMAS MENUS AVAILABLE ONLINE AND AT THE PUB

Christmas Day Lunch, New Year's Eve Dinner, Fireworks, Dancing

The

Guildhall Delicatessen

Situated in Bath’s famous indoor market

We now stock a wide range of vegan, vegetarian and meat based products as well as delicious cakes and Bath Buns. Ideal for lunches, picnics or any time snacks. Come and order your picnic and collect it when you need it. We can even cater for small business lunches.

Our range includes: Vegan, lamb or chicken samosas, veggie or meat pasties, bhajis, vegan or pork sausage rolls and veggie or pork scotch eggs. We also and stock a range of speciality scotch eggs, pork pies and vegetarian quiches. Why not add a Lovely juice drink to your picnic.

Open Mon - Sat, 9.30 - 17.00

8 Guildhall Market, Bath BA2 4AW • Tel: 01225 427195 email: guildhall-deli@hotmail.co.uk twitter: @GuildhallDeli

CAFE KITCHEN Welcome to our special, awardwinning café - a great place to meet friends, hold events and to give back to your community.

The cafe provides young people with special needs a unique opportunity to gain work experience and training.

Open Monday to Friday 8am–4pm Saturday 8am–12pm Available for private hire: Please call Amelia on 01225 838070 or email amelia.hartley@threeways.co.uk Located @ 180 Frome Road, Odd Down, BA2 5RF

Celebrate WITH US

HILTON BATH CITY Where Christmas comes together Whether you choose to celebrate with a formal sit-down dinner or an informal party with sharing platters, we’ll help you craft your perfect Christmas.

FESTIVE CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHT NEW YEAR’S EVE ★ PRIVATE PARTIES FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA

FOR MORE INFORMATION Contact the Christmas team on 01225 788450 or email karen.watts@hilton.com

Would you like to work in Media Sales?

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

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

Fresh Italian Products • Filled Ciabattas & Paninis Freshly Ground Coffee • Fresh Italian Deli and Produce Customer Orders Welcome

Many Brands including Balocco, Levoni, Negrini, Pasta Di Casa Mia, Mulino Bianco, Barilla, De Cecco, Riscossa, Voiello 5 Cleveland Place East, London Road, Bath BA1 5DJ

01225 470194

www.mediaclash.co.uk

WINE

IN GOOD TASTE The Great Western Wine tasting evening is coming up at Bath Assembly Rooms; here’s what you can look forward to this year…

By Angela Mount

S

eptember and October are funny old months, with polarising effects; some people love the last hazy sunshine of Indian summers, and others are sad that it heralds the harshness of winter, and the premature signs of Christmas panic.

But here’s some news to cheer us at the end of October: Great Western Wine will host its outrageously popular annual Portfolio Tasting at the glittering Assembly Rooms. It may only be September when you read this, but book early – these tickets sell out fast.

Wine tastings are ten a penny, but not this one; this one’s a showcase of some truly amazing wines and spirits. With over 150 on show, it’s one not to be missed. If you haven’t been before, it’s very relaxed, as you wander from table to table. My tip? Don’t go for the tried-and-tested; this is the perfect opportunity to explore and experiment with something new.

If you want to learn, Tristan Darby of the Great Wine School will be hosting tastings; and I will be running ‘wine walks’; if you’re confused about where to start, book in half an hour with me, tell me your

“The perfect opportunity to explore and experiment”

style preferences, and I’ll take you on a whistle-stop tour of discovery.

So what’s on show? Wine wise, there’s the chance to chat to wine producers from Spain, Argentina, South Africa, California and New Zealand, to name but a few. Interested in organic? Try Urlar’s organic Sauvignon blanc (£13.95), it’s zesty and limedrenched, produced by a Scottish couple in New Zealand; it’s not only organic, but biodynamic. For a similarly crisp white, from Spain, as an alternative to Sauvignon blanc, try Ramon Bilbao Rueda Verdejo (£11.25). While you’re there, taste my favourite red, from their range, the rich, soft, and moreish Rioja Vinedos de Altura (£14.50), with its floral hints and velvety smoothness.

Flying straight in from South Africa, California and Argentina respectively, will be the winemakers from Thelema, Cannonball and Penaflor, on hand to beguile with stories of their wineries. Delight in Thelema’s top-notch but ridiculously good-value Sutherland Sauvignon blanc (£11.95), or the enchantingly perfumed, Burgundian style Sutherland Pinot Noir (£17.95). Californian wines are making a comeback, with elegant, fragrant styles; the awardwinning Cannonball Merlot (£16.95) will seduce you with its polished black fruit and cocoa spice style.

Moving south to Argentina, the mesmerising La Mascota Unanime (£17.50), which has more golds in its trophy cabinet than Mo Farah, will be on show – bursting with brooding depth – as well as some lesserknown grape varieties, such as Estacion 1883 Bonarda (£11.95), soft, voluptuous and an interesting change from Malbec.

For those eager to pick up on latest trends, there’ll be the first appearance of the newest arrivals, a range of Greek wines. No final details yet, all will be revealed on the night.

Great Western Wine has a jaw-dropping 180 gins in their range. The team from Cornish-based Tarquins (£30) will be there, pouring samples of this fragranced, citrusy and exotically spiced new gin. Also present will be the guys behind the highly distinctive Pink Pepper gin (£40) with its powerful, yet fragrant character, produced from hand-picked Spanish peppercorns.

Does the emerging trend for rum rock your boat? You won’t find newer than the irresistibly smooth varieties from Rum Java (£35) with their decadent combination of rum, coffee and chocolate. And, to finish, there’ll also be local cheeses and charcuterie to try, wine and chocolate pairings, and a whole host of other goodies to tantalise your taste buds.

So banish the autumn blues, book your ticket, and you’ll find that Christmas will come early on 25 October. See you there. ■

The Portfolio Tasting will be held on 25 October from 5.30pm at Bath Assembly Rooms. For more, visit www.greatwesternwine.co.uk

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

We VALUE

WE SELL

WE BUY

jewellery, silver, fine art and period furnishings

the unusual and unbelievable.

Extraordinary furnishings and beautiful objects for the discerning

gold, silver, jewellery, fine art and period pieces at highly competitive rates

Now taking enquiries: 01225 430170 info@altitudeandattitude.co.uk www.altitudeandattitude.co.uk Come and see us: 2 Nelson Place East , Bath, BA1 5DA Friday and Saturday 10am – 5pm or by appointment

PRE LOVED MENSWEAR NEARLY NEW FASHION FOR DISCERNING MEN WITH GOOD TASTE

CHAPS – please send us your old preloved clothing and accessories: we will sell them on a 50/50 basis

37 Silver St, Bradford on Avon

T: 01225 684688

SHOPPING

© CHRIS DAW

LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

BODY OF WORK

Bath-based artist Gary Wood’s Torso collection features painted, crafted stoneware which aims to capture associations made with the human form while suggesting movement in stillness and a sense of quiet vitality.

A strong source of inspiration for these works is Gary’s keen interest in contemporary dance and, in particular, the work of the esteemed German choreographer Pina Bausch.

From £150 – £1,500, available at Waller&Wood, 4 Abbey Green, Bath; www.wallerandwood.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 81

CUSHIONS, £49 The Eclectic range from Hay will add a beautiful touch of tonal Danish design to your bedroom From Hay, 36-38 Milsom Street, Bath; www.hay.dk

DREAM A LITTLE DREAM

Sleeptember’s an actual thing, don’t cha know? An excuse to sleep in? We’ll take it. Here’s our pick of sleep-themed luxuries to treat yourself to...

THIS BOOK WILL MAKE YOU SLEEP, £8.99 We all go through patches when we find it hard to drop off. Break negative sleep patterns with this read From Vinegar Hill, 16 Milsom Street, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk

DREAMCATCHER, £150 Handmade by Box-based Jacqui Jarosy, this driftwood boho dreamcatcher is a delicate, gorgeously tactile piece From Jacqui Jarosy; www.jacquijarosy.etsy.com

HYPNOS BED SETS, FROM £835 We spend a third of our lives asleep, so your bed is an important part of your life. Find a range of form-meets-function beauties at TR Hayes From TR Hayes, 15-18 London Street, Walcot, Bath; www.trhayes.co.uk

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

ALESSI MUG, £19 Wind down at night time with a cup of something comforting served in this bone china, heart-shaped mug From Quadri of Bath,16 Milsom Place, Milsom Street, Bath; www.quadri.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE

COZYLIVING BLANKET, FROM £79 All the way from Copenhagen, these pastel throws are equal parts snuggly and stylish The Loft, 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; www. theloftbath.com

EYE MASKS, £5.95 EACH At her kitchen table, Alice Pascoe, who lives near Lansdown, makes these masks on her sewing machine From SimplyWishes; www.etsy. com/shop/SimplyWishes

ELEMIS NIGHT CREAM, £49 This hydrating and restoring cream-oil boosts repair and renewal at night From Radiance Wellbeing, 2 New Bond Street Place, Bath; www.radiancewellbeing.co.uk ALSO HOME WAFFLE ROBES, £56 EACH The Lys Collection of bath robes mean you can travel from bath to bed in lightweight comfort. Tactile by nature, these robes evoke a relaxed feel you won't want to end From Kilver Court, Kilver Street, Shepton Mallet; www.kilvercourt.com

CAMBERWELL BEDFRAME, £1,349 (FOR A DOUBLE) Distinctive and bold in nature, Camberwell is designed to project a super luxe, contemporary, inviting look which demands attention From Silcox Son & Wicks, 5-7 New Street, Bath; www.silcox.co.uk

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EDUCATION SPECIAL

Students in the classroom at Stonar School

ONWARDS & UPWARDS Whether it is the ever-changing face of technology, the ongoing discussions about gender roles, or Brexit looming, times are changing for the education sector.

So how are schools adapting?

By Harriet Noble 86 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

EDUCATION SPECIAL

N

ow perhaps more than ever, schools are having to look ahead and embrace an ever-evolving landscape, while ensuring their students are given a nourishing environment where they are able to fulfil their potential in a progressive and happy environment.

We spoke to seven schools in Bath to find out how they are doing it.

Tim Naylor, principle BATH ACADEMY

As a school, what sets you apart?

We are unique among schools and colleges in Bath by adding significant value to the life chances of young people, providing alternative pathways for those who need flexibility. For example, we provide re-sit courses for students who need more expert teaching and support to progress to the best universities. In 2017, we came top of the government league table for A Level progress of all schools in B&NES. How are you innovating?

We are currently investing in expertise and resources to support our students with special educational needs (particularly dyslexia) as our very small group-teaching, flexibility, and careful attention to the needs of individual students lends itself well to enabling students move from a felt minus to a felt plus. To achieve this, we have recently expanded across Queen Square into Chapel Row to offer all our students a new, fresh space in which to learn, relax, and study in.

How are you embracing technology?

This year we have installed brand-new digital white boards in almost all of our Pupils studying outside at Bath Academy

classrooms to enable our teachers to utilise every online resource available to them.

Apps such as Kahoot and TED-ED are used to engage students and enhance their learning experience, but our methods rely more on highquality, personalised teaching rather than technological gimmicks.

Life through a lens: students at Paragon School

With the ongoing discussion about gender bias, how do you address sexism and in lessons?

As we have both transgender students and teachers, this topic is discussed very openly in the college, both inside and outside the classroom.

Recently, some of our students did an impressive presentation on this topic in front of their peers, highlighting gender inequality all over the world, which prompted some interesting discussions.

Andrew Harvey, headmaster THE PARAGON SCHOOL

As a school, what sets you apart/makes you different?

We are fortunate to be located in the most beautiful environment where we can make the most of our extensive grounds for learning and playing. We have a genuine and passionate focus on ensuring we imbue pupils with skills as well as knowledge which will set them up for life.

How are you innovating?

The introduction of philosophy as a discreet lesson has had a fundamental impact on children’s learning at The Paragon. Pupils are better now at expressing their ideas and listening to others in class.

How are you embracing technology?

The use of technology is an integral part of our pupils’ learning experience and is incorporated in lessons across the curriculum.

Lessons are enhanced by the use of smart TVs, iPads and our well-resourced IT suite. Our expectations of what pupils can achieve using this technology are high, and the results they produce demonstrate this. Coding and control technology are part of our broad and dynamic ICT syllabus.

Career education has never been more important. How do you prepare young people for the future of work?

We must never forget that, as educators, we are preparing pupils for many jobs that do not yet exist. Too many schools focus on short-term goals to the detriment of pupils they purport to serve. At The Paragon, we encourage children to become independent learners, to selfevaluate their work, to persevere when they find something difficult, and to be excellent team players – skills that are essential, regardless of the employment landscape of the future.

“As we have both transgender students and teachers, this topic is discussed very openly” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 87

EDUCATION SPECIAL Mr Martin Boden, headmaster KING EDWARD’S SCHOOL

Design for life at King Edward’s School

What’s your learning ethos?

We provide a distinctive and stimulating learning environment for adventurous minds, where each child is encouraged to strive for excellence and acquire a lifelong passion for knowledge and discovery.

The ISI inspection report highlighted that: “The success of the school lies in the strength of the ethos which permeates it from the Early Years Foundation Stage to the sixth form.”

What makes you different?

The Sunday Times’ Parent Power survey places King Edward’s in the top five performing schools in the South West, and this consistent academic success is underpinned by pastoral care which was rated excellent by the ISI inspection and noted as being a particular strength of the school. In addition, KES provides a breadth of co-curricular opportunities with over 100 clubs and societies on offer to pupils.

With the ongoing discussion about gender bias, how do you address sexism and stereotypes in lessons?

Challenging gender bias and stereotypes is incorporated in teaching – for example, in history lessons, through recent teaching about women’s suffrage and drawing on examples of female leadership. The school encourages the pupil voice through its Socrates, debating society, covering current news and opinion on gender and stereotyping, allowing pupils to explore these debates among each other.

With female staff in leadership positions within the school, including to support pupils in their choice to study STEM subjects at A Level and beyond at university, pupils have excellent female role models.

Pupils are not confined to ‘traditional stereotypes’ and they are encouraged to

Sixth Form Centre, ensuring it is an inspiring space for young adults, similar to what they might expect to find in higher education, and also creating further classrooms, designed to be a stimulating environment for learning.

Dr Sally Divall, headmistress STONAR SCHOOL Briefly, what’s your learning ethos?

We strive to provide an inspirational learningcentred environment where every student is encouraged to understand how to learn as well as to achieve the highest possible results. We aim to inspire a love of learning and of intellectual challenge with practical work, questioning and debating as well as events such as Dragon’s Den, mock elections and Stonar seminars. Our Curiosity Room also provides a source of inspiration, excitement and enquiry from pupils.

“We are preparing our pupils for life in a globalised world” believe that all opportunities are open to them. Currently 40 per cent of girls’ A Level entries are for STEM subjects, and many go on to study sciences successfully at university, including in the fields of medicine and veterinary science.

How are you innovating?

It will be ‘curtains up’ at King Edward’s this autumn for a brand-new, professionally equipped Drama Centre, which will provide opportunities for pupils to work creatively and collaboratively within and beyond the curriculum. This will provide a wonderful new home to this thriving department.

In addition, the school will be extending the

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

As a school, what sets you apart?

We are part of an international group of schools and are preparing our pupils for life in a globalised world. Connections and collaborations with our sister schools across Europe are a very routine part of school life, exposing our pupils to regular opportunities to work alongside pupils of other nationalities and cultures.

We have a world-class equestrian centre and interested pupils are able to study for equestrian qualifications and develop their riding to a high level, alongside their academic work.

Are you embracing technology?

Our focus is always on understanding and using technology appropriately. We want our pupils to embrace and use the educational power of technology, evaluating when and where to use it effectively, while avoiding pitfalls that come from over-dependence on the internet.

How do you address sexism and stereotypes in lessons?

Having gone through the process of moving to co-education over the past few years, we have been very aware of the dangers of gender stereotyping and have reviewed our curriculum to eliminate bias; we are committed to equal opportunities for all pupils. As a physicist, I have experienced working in an environment that sometimes suffered, usually unconsciously, from gender stereotyping, and I am determined to avoid this in school.

Mr. James Murphy-O’Connor, headmaster PRIOR PARK COLLEGE As a school, what sets you apart?

Set in a beautiful location, with 600 pupils, we are an incredibly strong community in which everyone plays their part and each and every one of our individual students is known. We aim to provide pastoral care of an encouraging, supportive and disciplined nature, thus providing an education of the whole person. As a result, we are known to produce well-rounded, interesting and ambitious young people.

EDUCATION SPECIAL How are you innovating?

As a school we are always innovating. Most recently, we have developed a new curriculum to ensure that it is future-proof, aiming to build skills which will be welcomed in the 21st-century workplace. Enterprise education is also both explicit and implicitly taught at Prior, so that students are not afraid to think creatively and work collaboratively in all subjects. To further support this, every child at the school is part of an enterprise scheme or enterprise programme, and 2018 also saw the College appoint its first Entrepreneur in Residence.

What part does technology have to play in learning?

We embrace technology across the curriculum, to deliver education through new means and to enhance more traditional methods of teaching. We have just appointed our first head of digital learning this academic year, and our design and technology department has recently been recognised as a Centre of Excellence, in recognition for the exemplary standard of work the pupils produce using laser processing and 3D-printing technologies. Only 14 other schools in the UK have achieved this status.

What impact will Brexit have on education and the recruitment of teachers?

Prior Park College is part of the Prior Park Schools Foundation, which also includes The Paragon Junior School in Bath and Prior Park School in Gibraltar. While Brexit is something we need to keep a close eye on, to date we have been lucky to see little impact at any of our schools.

In fact, we are delighted to welcome pupils from many different countries to Prior Park College’s boarding community this year, including a number of students from European countries such as France, Germany, Spain and Poland. I firmly believe that if a school’s name is good, then it will continue to attract the students.

Simon Morris, headmaster KINGSWOOD SCHOOL

How are you innovating and how are you embracing technology in learning?

We recently opened our new innovation area at Kingswood Prep. Science, engineering, technology, programming and robotics are skills that will hold our children in good stead for life. Encouraging a spirit of enquiry while sitting alongside more traditional skills such as a love of reading, we believe we are giving our children a real opportunity to go above and beyond normal curricular areas.

Equipping young children with the technical skills for a changing work place is important.

We’re confident that our children can be at the forefront of technological change, but also have those traditional skills in abundance.

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

TOP: Green fingers at Kingswood School; BOTTOM: Techy whizzes at Prior Park College

Blowing your own trumpet at St. Margaret’s Preparatory School

How are you dealing with sexism and stereotypes in lessons?

We are all aware of the gender bias of subjects such as science and engineering, and, with our new facilities, we will foster a love of these areas across all the children at our school. If we can excite and engage them at a young age, there will be no stopping them.

Career education has never been more important – how do you prepare young people for the future of work?

Our children head into a future of artificial

help any school or organisation. The current uncertainty over Brexit is still very much a question mark for what might take place over the next 18 months. We do know that the greatest gift you can give your children is a first-class education and opportunity well beyond what is a ‘norm’.

Mrs Karen E Cordon, headmistress ST MARGARET’S PREPARATORY SCHOOL As a school, what sets you apart?

St Margaret’s is such a vibrant school. So much happens here because we allow it to. Our pupils are not restricted in their choices or ‘instructed’ as to what their interests ought to be. They are not compelled to forsake what they love, for what is expedient. What sets us apart is that so much is ‘allowed’ to happen. No one would dispute the fullness of our days, but, among the scurry and the rush, we also make time for reflection, quiet and our community.

“The political climate at present does not help any school” intelligence and huge technological change.

Communication, project leadership, entrepreneurship, teamwork, resilience, people skills, including empathy and understanding will be hugely important, alongside a host of other skills. Selfconfidence, being comfortable in your own skin, and having a real belief in what you can achieve are so important.

What impact will Brexit have on education and the recruitment of teachers at your school?

The political climate at present does not

How are you embracing technology in learning?

As a recognised Lead School for computing, we have always been at the forefront of technological advances, both in the classroom and in the wider aspects of school life.

Children, from a very young age, enjoy the thrill of working with ‘gadgets’; consequently, building and programming robots, alongside constructing a PC from scratch, are projects in which pupils here can expect to participate. For the new school year, drone technology is being implemented throughout the curriculum.

How do you address sexism?

St Margaret’s is not in a bubble - we want children to develop their own views, in order to confront potential challenges and not build a defence mechanism to pretend to avoid them. Opportunities exist across the school for boys and girls to enjoy all aspects of school life; within a culture of respect, everyone is encouraged to be proud of themselves and each other and to celebrate similarities as well as differences.

What impact will Brexit have, both on education and the recruitment of teachers at your school?

Trying to second-guess the answer to this is almost impossible. The children will remain at the heart of everything we do, and the quality of the educational provision will never be compromised.

However, I have a real concern that the recruitment and retention crisis which we are currently experiencing may not be addressed if Brexit results in reduced levels of investment in education.

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

DIRECTORY Kingswood School

EDUCATION DIRECTORY

Bath Life’s guide to schools in Bath and the surrounding area SCHOOLS

Aspire Academy

(The Link Centre) Frome Road, Bath, BA2 5RF 01225 832212; www.thelinkschool.org.uk Ages: 4-16; Co-ed Bath Academy

27 Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2HX 01225 334577; www.bathacademy.co.uk Ages: 16+; Co-ed; Boarding; Day The Bath Studio School

Frome Road, Bath, BA2 5RF; 01225 831933; www.thebathstudioschool.org.uk Ages: 14-19; Co-ed Beechen Cliff

Alexandra Park, Bath, BA2 4RE 01225 480466; www.beechencliff.org.uk Ages: 11-18; Boys; Mixed sixth form Bruton School for Girls

Sunny Hill, Bruton, BA10 0NT 01749 814400; www.brutonschool.co.uk Ages: 3-18; Girls; Boarding; Day Calder House School

Thickwood Lane, Colerne, Chippenham , SN14 8BN; 01225 742329; www.calderhouseschool.co.uk Ages: 7–13; Co-ed: Day Churchfields, The Village School

Bradford Road, Atworth, Melksham, SN12 8HY 01225 703026; www.churchfields.wilts.sch.uk Ages: 4–11; Co-ed Hayesfield Girls’ School

Brougham Hayes Campus & Upper Oldfield Park Campus; Bath, BA2 3LA 01225 426151;

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

www.hayesfield.com Ages: 11-18; Girls; Mixed sixth form; Day King Edward’s School

King Edward’s Senior School & Sixth Form, North Road, Bath, BA2 6HU 01225 464313; www.kesbath.com Ages: 3-18; Co-ed; Day Kingswood School

Lansdown Road, Bath, BA1 5RG 01225 734200; www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk Ages: 3-18; Co-ed; Boarding; Day Monkton Combe

Monkton Senior School, Monkton Combe, Bath, BA2 7HG; 01225 721137; www.monktoncombeschool.com Ages: 2-19; Co-ed; Boarding; Day Moorlands Junior School

Chantry Mead Road, Bath, BA2 2DE; 01225 421912; www.moorlandsfederation.org Ages: 4-11; Co-ed; Day Oldfield Park Infant School

Dorset Close, Bath, BA2 3RF 01225 422903; www.oldfieldparkinfants.co.uk Ages: 4-7; Co-ed; Day Oldfield Park Junior School

Lymore Terrace, Bath BA2 2JL; 01225 423477; www.oldfieldpark juniorschool.com Ages: 7-11; Co-ed; Day Oldfield School

Kelston Road, Bath, BA1 9AB 01225 423582; www.oldfieldschool.com Ages: 11-18; Co-ed; Day The Paragon School

Lyncombe House, Lyncombe Vale, Bath, BA2 4LT; 01225 310837;

www.paragonschool.co.uk Ages: 3-11; Co-ed; Day Prior Park College

Prior Park College, Ralph Allen Drive, Bath, BA2 5AH; 01225 835353; www.priorparkcollege.com Ages: 11-18; Co-ed; Boarding; Day Ralph Lauren School

Claverton Down Road, Bath BA2 7AD; 01225 832936; www.ralphallen.bathnes.sch.uk Ages: 11-18; Co-ed; Day The Royal High School

Lansdown Road, Bath, BA1 5SZ; 01225 313877; www.royalhighbath.gdst.net Ages: 3-18; Girls; Boarding; Day St Andrew’s CE Primary School

Northampton Street, Bath, BA1 2SN; 01225 310135; www.standrewsprimarybath.com Ages: 3-11; Co-ed; Day St Gregory’s Catholic College

Combe Hay Lane, Bath, BA2 8PA 01225 832873; www.st-gregorys.org.uk Ages: 11-18; Co-ed St Margaret’s Prep School

63 Curzon Street, Calne, SN11 0DF; 01249 857220; www.stmargaretsprep.org.uk Ages: 3-11; Co-ed and Day St Martin’s Garden Primary School

Lympsham Green, Odd Down, Bath BA2 2UN; 01225 832112 www.stmartinsgarden.org.uk Ages: 3-11; Co-ed; Day

St. Mark’s CoE Secondary School

Baytree Road, Larkhall, Bath BA1 6ND; 01225 312661; www.st-marks.org.uk Ages: 11-18; Co-ed; Day Stonar School

Cottles Park, Atworth, Wiltshire, SN12 8NT; 01225 701740; www.stonarschool.com Ages: Girls 2-18, and Boys 2-12; Boarding;Day St Saviour’s CE Junior School

Eldon Place, Larkhall, Bath BA1 6TG; 01225 310137 www.stsaviours-jun.co.uk Ages: 3-11; Co-ed; Day Wellsway School

Chandag Road, Keynsham, Bristol BS31 1PH; 0117 986 4751; www.wellswayschool.com Ages: 11-18; Co-ed.

OTHER EDUCATIONAL SERVICES Home School Tutoring

www.homeschooltutoring.co.uk 01225 590033 Kaplan

www.kaplaninternational.com 01225 448840 Kip McGrath Tutoring

www.kipmcgrath.co.uk 01225 335510 Little Piccolos

www.littlepiccolos.co.uk Wicked Weather Watch

www.wickedweatherwatch.org.uk 07811 265156.

Need inspiration to bring climate change into your KS1 / KS2 cold environment topics?

Want to link up with an Arctic explorer?

If so, join us for a hands-on CPD workshop!

20th September 2018 | 9.30am-12.30pm Royal High Junior School Bath Register at: www.wickedweatherwatch.org.uk

Supportive tuition for all Home-School Tutoring, Bath offers tutors for primary and secondary aged students, as well as language teachers for adults. All tutors are DBS-checked, fully qualified teachers with a passion for their subjects.

We are skilled at helping children who may need support in their learning and/or encouragement to regain confidence in their ability.

Discover something new!

Join us for a free taster class Monday mornings: The Percy Centre, Bath Friday mornings: The Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon Get in touch to ďŹ nd out more ella@littlepiccolos.co.uk • www.littlepiccolos.co.uk f LittlePiccolos

For further information, please contact Lucy Billington: lucy.billington@homeschooltutoring.co.uk Phone: 01225 590033 / 07860 118477 www.homeschooltutoring.co.uk/ location/bath-tutors/

Reach the best in the west Affluent, active and influential and just a call away

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Successful, well-established year-round language school in the centre of Bath requires

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We teach adults and teenagers, and need both single and twin-room accommodation.

For further details, including rates of payment, please contact our Accommodation Manager: Sarah Wringer, KIE Bath, 5 Trim Street, Bath, BA1 1HB Direct Line (01225) 473502, Email: sarah.wringer@kaplan.com

A BEACH RETREAT

Dreaming of escaping the city bustle and investing in a coastal bolthole?

Melissa Stewart finds out how you can own your own little piece of Devon...

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

GREAT ESCAPES

F

or many of us, when we think of Devon we think of the wilds of Dartmoor, the city buzz of Exeter or the yachting glamour of the South Hams. The rugged North Devon coastline rarely gets a look-in, unless you’re a surfer, that is, in which case you’ll have been raving for years about the fabulous swell and first-class beaches.

Yes, North Devon may not be as sophisticated as its southern sister but it’s chilled, friendly and full of charm. No place more so perhaps than the coastal village of Woolacombe. With a population of just 1,000 in the winter, it rockets in the summertime as families flock to the “best beach in the world” – a title bestowed by TripAdvisor users in 2016

And it’s not just tourists who are being drawn to Woolacombe Bay either; it’s currently undergoing something of a property renaissance too, as developers move in and bring it slap bang into the 21st century.

The crumbling Victorian hotels and villas are gradually being replaced with slick and contemporary properties more befitting of today’s modern lifestyles.

One such development is Byron; 57 luxury apartments in the heart of Woolacombe.

Many of the beachside apartments offer sparkling sea views, which you can enjoy – G&T in hand – from your own Juliet balcony.

Byron is divided into five premium buildings, each named after a different North Devon beach, and offers residents secure on-site parking and a 24-hour concierge service. Facilities include a residents-only leisure suite with a private swimming pool, a fully equipped gym and a sauna.

“Whether you’re looking for a family holiday home or a furnished holiday let investment, Byron offers luxury at its best with its wonderfully high-spec apartments, panoramic views and in-house facilities,” says Sheila Sawyer, co-director of Blast Properties Limited, the site developers.

The apartments come in a range of sizes and prices, depending on the specification.

Prices range from £385,000 for a two-bed

“This isn’t another tacky seaside resort full of amusement arcades” – and soak up its cool seaside vibe.

Rest assured, however, this isn’t another tacky seaside resort full of kiss-me-quick hats and amusement arcades. Hipster adrenaline junkies head here to surf, paddleboard, horseride and hike the South West Coast Path, while the less adventurous among us can enjoy sunset strolls on the beach, day trips to nearby Lundy Island or a visit to Restaurant Noel Corston – a tucked-away gem offering some of Devon’s finest local produce.

DID YOU KNOW...

If you buy a furnished holiday let, rather than a buy-to-let property, you can claim capital allowances on all the furnishings and fittings? In fact, the average capital allowance fixture claim on a furnished holiday let means your rental profits could be tax-free for up to the first five years.

Property tax specialists Stanley Tax Associates carried out a recent review of the Byron development at Woolacombe Bay and estimate that owners could claim as much as 27 per cent of the buying price in capital allowances. For example, if you bought a three-bed apartment for £558,500, you could claim £149,678 (on a projected capital allowance of 26.8 per cent), giving you a cash saving of £67,355.

apartment without a sea view, to £879,000 for a three-bed penthouse with a sea view and outdoor living space. All are available fully furnished and equipped to the buyer’s bespoke requirements, so that they can simply pick up the keys and move in, or start letting, straightaway.

“We’ve been working with the best local interior designers to create sleek, spacious, state-of-the-art living spaces, which capitalise on the abundant natural light and seaside setting,” says Sheila. “Owners can, of course, employ their own interior designers, but our services are available if they want the ease of a ready-to-move-into apartment and a stress-free experience.”

The Byron complex will also incorporate a new restaurant headed up by Devon-born chef Graham Brundle. Graham comes with pedigree, having trained at The Ritz before going on to work for Richard Branson on Necker Island and as head chef for the King of Jordan. Now he’s coming home to Woolacombe with Brundle’s Bar and Restaurant, due to open this autumn. He says, “There will be a very affluent clientele here – you only have to look at properties in the area to see that. Byron is in a great location and will offer something really new and exciting.”

The second phase of the development is now complete, with 14 luxury apartments now available to buy.

To find out more go to www.byronwoolacombe.co.uk or to arrange a viewing call Webbers on 01271 863 091, or Knight Frank on 01392 423 111

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Meet the architect

These architects tell us what inspires and motivates them – and what it takes to be successful SOPHIE COSGROVE

ANDREW BROWN

CMS GROUP

ARCHITECTURAL DIRECTOR, MOON

01249 701333; www.cms-group.co

0117 973 3284; www.moonarchitectandbuilder.co.uk How long have you been an architect?

I have just recently qualified, and am very happy to have finished the extensive academic process. However, conversely, the compelling thing about being an architect is that it entails being ‘jack of all trades’ and so an architect’s education never truly ends.

What’s the most important quality required to be a successful architect?

Versatility. Particularly when working in a multi-faceted practice such as CMS, with a diverse portfolio of projects in terms of scale, sector and procurement.

Architects have to be adaptable to endlessly changing situations through all aspects of the building process, which fortunately is also what keeps the job exciting.

Sophie Cosgrove

Where are your offices based?

CMS Architects is part of a multi-disciplinary practice based in the small town of Corsham, Wiltshire. We undertake projects across the country and are looking forward to celebrating our 30th anniversary this November.

Andrew Brown

FIONA SMITH

ASSOCIATE, SRA ARCHITECTS

What’s the most important quality required to be a successful architect?

I think that the most important quality is that you have a wide range of qualities! One of the great things about being an architect is that your day-to-day life is so varied. You have to be creative and be able to design beautiful buildings, but have the technical knowledge and practical ability to detail these so they stand up and keep the water out. You have to be able to talk to clients about how different materials and colours will sit together equally as comfortably as explaining a detail to a builder on site up to their knees in mud.

What areas of architecture do you specialise in?

At Moon we work almost exclusively on residential projects, although we do also complete a couple of commercial projects each year. Before joining Moon, as well as designing houses I worked on a wide range of different building types from art galleries and museums to bars and restaurants.

How long has your practice being established for?

Moon has been established for just over 15 years and in that time have completed more than 250 projects.

DOUGAL ANDERSON

01225 827444; www.sra-architects.co.uk

STRIDE TREGLOWN How long have you been an architect?

Eight years. I studied at the University of Dundee and became chartered in 2010. Since this time I have worked at various architectural practices in Scotland, the Middle East, and throughout the South West. I joined SRA Architects in 2015 and was promoted to associate last year.

How do you feel the practice invests in their female future leaders?

The practice listens and responds quickly to all aspiring leaders. Leadership roles are in recognition of our achievements and experience within the profession no matter what our role or gender. We have a number of opportunities in place that support flexible working and the practice looks to provide whatever support it feasibly can to those returning to work after having a child, and indeed everyone with caring commitments.

What area of architecture do you specialise in?

I have worked in various sectors of the profession throughout my career; however I most enjoy focusing on the commercial sector. I am currently working on various office and light industrial developments throughout the South West and London.

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

01225 466173; stridetreglown.com What’s the most important quality required to be a successful architect?

The ability to understand a setting and context, and respond sensitively is key.

What are the particular challenges of being an architect in Bath?

Bath’s unique quality is both its delight and its challenge; its World Heritage status means it is crucial to think in terms of the impact a new building may make in visual, cultural, social and economic terms. Our Bath office is well-placed to consider this impact – we are immersed in our city and its culture and have a deep collective understanding of its identity.

Fiona Smith

Which individual project have you most enjoyed working on?

An arts centre building for the Royal High School in Bath. We designed a very modern building, but enhanced it by picking up rhythms from many of the surrounding listed structures.

What areas of architecture do you specialise in?

I work on a range of building types – many with challenging sites. I relish developing designs which respond to their context.

Dougal Anderson

Stride Treglown is an employee-owned practice with nine UK offices, including a Bath office established for over 30 years. stridetreglown.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

JONATHAN HETREED

BEN SMITH

01225 851860; www.hetreedross.com

01225 851122; www.batterhamsmitharchitects.co.uk

What areas of architecture do you specialize in?

Bespoke environmental design for residential, community, education and commercial clients. We relish meeting clients’ challenges - and exceeding their expectations.

How long has your practice been established for?

We set up Batterham Smith Architects just over a year ago and it was the result of several of us from our former firm, Batterham Matthews Architects deciding that a smaller practice would enable us to pursue more interesting and creative projects.

DIRECTOR, BATTERHAM SMITH ARCHITECTS

HETREED ROSS ARCHITECTS

What are the most rewarding aspects of the job?

Achieving that close fit between brief, design and construction where a project begins to ‘sing’ – it’s a team effort for us at HRA, other consultants, contractor and of course our clients: for a good client preparing a brief is just the start of an evolution through many decisions and an understanding and appreciation of work on site.

What are the most rewarding aspects of the job?

Working in a small practice you face many different and unexpected challenges every day. One day we might be sorting out a waterproofing construction detail, the next negotiating the principles of development on a site with a planning officer.

Jonathan Hetreed

What are your green and environmental credentials?

I have been pursuing environmental design in architecture since the 1970s – so that helps, as does building experience: having done the work oneself lends positive perspective with builders now. Although our clients cover a broad spectrum, the majority recognise the virtues of our bespoke environmental approach and that experience stands us in good stead; Amanda in our practice qualified last year as a Passivhaus Designer and has been grappling with designing her own passivhaus - as well as with our clients’ projects.

Ben Smith

What advice would you give to an architect at the beginning of their career?

Although it sometimes feels like we are working on a conveyor belt with the tools, and regulations continually changing in front of us, the fundamentals of architecture remain the same. To elevate every project that we work on and add value to that project. Whether that be through creating an unexpected connection to the landscape, finding a way to unlock a site that no-one previously thought would be able to get planning or through introducing some artistry where no-one else will, a young architect needs to be adaptable and multi skilled, very open to ideas and resilient.

ALEX BELL

VICKI SMITH

01225 465701; www.dka.co.uk

07912 747 920; www.vassarchitects.co.uk

What’s the most important quality required to be a successful architect?

Architects must to be good communicators – we should only ever be listening (to our clients) or capturing our ideas somehow; on technical drawings, in presentations, in reports or specifications.

Architects need to be able to communicate with a range of technical and non-technical people at different stages of the design.

How long have you been an architect?

I qualified 12 years ago.

DIRECTOR, DKA

What areas of architecture do you specialise in?

DKA is a general commercial practice where skills are often transferable between sectors of work. This has sustained the practice over many years and kept it fresh; projects in motor retail dating back over 20 years led to high-tech automotive commissions in Formula One, which led to aviation R&D projects which culminated in our first rail project in 2018.

What are the misconceptions about being an architect?

Architects should be good all-rounders and feel equally proficient with a pencil or a spreadsheet. We are problem solvers at heart; design is an iterative process that balances imagination with the constraints of a site or building type. To create a design for your client requires empathy as well as imagination.

VASS ARCHITECTS

What areas of architecture do you specialise in?

I started off my career working on large scale University buildings but changed direction to specialise in the residential sector as I found it more personal and fulfilling.

Since setting up the practice we’ve gone from extensions and conversions to building new homes integrating architecture and the surrounding landscape as a whole.

We’re keen to harmonise the new with the old which is always prevalent in Bath.

Alex Bell

What are the most rewarding aspects of the job?

Changing a house to a home. I like meeting new people and hearing their ideas for how they’d like to improve their house. We then put together schemes that often have solutions they hadn’t considered. Designing a new or reworked home that exceeds the client’s original expectations and meets their budget is probably the most rewarding part of the job, it’s great to have played a part in making someone feel happy in their new space.

Vicki Smith

What are the misconceptions about being an architect?

We all either wear corduroy jackets or just black. Our homes are immaculate visions with lots of glazing and a cool staircase. It’s not so; we all have lives, and mess and a long list of DIY jobs just like everyone else! www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 107

ADVERTISING FEATURE

KEVIN MURPHY

MANAGING DIRECTOR, AARON EVANS ARCHITECTS

MATTHEW BOLLEN

01225 466234; kevinm@aaronevans.com www.aaronevans.com

01225 460427 www.bba-architects.co.uk

How long have you being an architect?

I moved to Bath to study architecture at the University in 1982. I joined Aaron Evans in 1994 and have over 30 years’ professional experience. This year we are celebrating 40 years in practice.

What’s the most important quality required to be a successful architect?

Understanding the brief/client and their aspirations along with their requirements. Giving clients their options and involving them in the design process.

What are the most rewarding aspects of the job?

No two projects are the same. Working as an architect in Bath keeps me on my toes, my thinking fresh and encourages innovation; learning through experience is a lifelong process. I have a great team and enjoy working with a wide range of interesting clients, consultants and contractors.

How many people work in your practice?

We have a mixture of architects, planners, technicians/ technologists, part 1 and 2 students and a great supporting administration team. At present we have 23 working within the practice.

BBA ARCHITECTS LTD

Kevin Murphy

What are the misconceptions about being an architect?

Architects and designers don’t just design or provide solutions but they manage and give technical support.

We don’t all wear black roll neck jumpers!

What areas of architecture do you specialize in?

My work includes residential, education, retail and commercial sectors. I specialise in complex, challenging projects, large and small, that require creativity and lateral thinking, both designing new buildings and working with historic buildings.

What advice would you give to an architect at the beginning of their career?

Gain as much experience as possible, whether through asking questions or reading, never be afraid to sketch or give your peers or clients your ideas. You are continually learning.

What sets you apart from other architects?

Clients enjoy working with us. We are client focused, experienced and tenacious. We offer a bespoke, tailor made approach to the design and delivery of every project and aim to exceed our clients’ expectations.

Matthew Bollen

PHILIP MITCHELL

DANIEL LUGSDEN

ASSOCIATE, AARON EVANS ARCHITECTS

PARTNER, NASH PARTNERSHIP 01225 442424; www.nashpartnership.com

How long have you being an architect?

I feel like I’ve been an architect all my life... My mum suggested it when I was very young as I was good at maths and drawing. To be honest, I didn’t really know what it was - I just had such trust in my parents I went with it! I’ve never considered much else (other than a brief spell in the forces before university, to see what other routes might test me physically and mentally!).

01225 466234 philipm@aaronevans.com www.aaronevans.com How long have you being an architect?

I completed my studies and professional qualifications in 1992 so in short, a long time! Having said that, from 1999–2012 I was a business manager in a design company and did my own developments, so I’ve enjoyed some variety in my career.

Daniel Lugsden

What are the most rewarding aspects of the job?

There is a lot of hard work that goes into each project but seeing a beautiful end product is always ample reward.

What’s the most important quality for a successful architect Motivation, motivation, motivation. Like anything in life, you get out what you put in - you need to be committed to constantly challenging yourself to upskill and be at the heart of the project and what it’s about. You need to care.

What areas of architecture do you specialize in?

High-end residential, for both private individuals and developers alongside complex education projects.

What has been your proudest professional moment?

Proudest/scariest/most exciting all at once: becoming an equity partner of a practice I had worked at for many years which I felt was doing a good thing with good people at its heart. That and telling my parents!

What sets you apart from other architects?

Last year a developer client embarrassed me with an abundance of compliments so I must be doing something right! n

Philip Mitchell

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BUSINESSINSIDER B AT H G E T S S E R I O U S

Quote of the issue

©STEPHANIE SANDALL, BET TER THAN BERTHA

“I WAS A TEAM PLAYER DOING ALL I COULD TO GET THOSE AROUND ME OVER THE LINE TO SCORE TRIES. THIS IS MIRRORED IN WHAT I ENJOY DOING IN BUSINESS”

THE FUTURE’S BRIGHT TEDx is coming to Bath for the first time – for inspiring talks on a ‘light up the future’ theme

T

EDx Bath has announced details of Bath’s first TEDx conference, and the theme is ‘light up the future.’ Taking place at Bath Abbey on 29 September, the event will involve 12 talks from leading speakers on a broad range of topics concerning the future of Bath, including social welfare, mobility, mental health, and the role and character of Bath as a city.

The theme will lend itself to discussions about what will brighten our future, how we can change our communities and our own lives, and how to adapt and better ourselves and our technologies. TEDx Bath will be exploring this theme with inspiring speakers and engagement from an exciting and diverse range of groups

and societies across Bath.

A brand new initiative, TEDx Bath has been set up as part of the global TED organisation, and aims to share ideas and issues that relate to the Bath community. Its activities are being coordinated by local volunteers who are united by a desire to share ideas and encourage positive change.

Lead organiser Rhodora Baguilat says, “TEDx Bath is for everyone and anyone who is interested and enthusiastic about ideas for the future of Bath and its community, both now and in future. We hope people from all backgrounds and walks of life in Bath will come together and join us at our first event to share and explore new ideas.”

TEDx Bath 2018 is now open for ticket registrations.

For more: www.tedxbath.co.uk

Rugby legend Alix Popham chatting business on page 110

The Big Number FAR LEFT: TEDx Bath illustrations

by Stephanie Sandall ABOVE: Architect Piers Taylor is one of the speakers at TEDx Bath

61,000 That’s the number of people who annually turn up to the rugby match ‘The Clash’

WHO ARE THE SPEAKERS? • Prof Andrew Brewerton, principal & chief executive, Plymouth College of Art • Andrew Grant, founder and director of Grant Associates • Philip Raby, director FilmBath • William Heath, social entrepreneur • Joy Nazzari, managing director and co-founder of dn&co • Claire Henwood, MakeLunch (Bath) co-founder and coordinator

• Piers Taylor, architect • Dominique Thompson, GP and director of Buzz Consulting • Penny Hay, director of research, 5x5x5=creativity, senior lecturer in arts education, Bath Spa University • Adam Reynolds, chair of Cycle Bath/transport policy advisor • Jake Curtis, Jamie’s Farm • Dr Rob Wortham, teaching fellow, University of Bath

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 115

BUSINESS INSIDER

ONE TO WATCH

Sporting legend Alix Popham tells us about the inspiration behind his new company HUB XV, where the worlds of sport and business collide to form vibrant workspaces Alix Popham at Bath Racecourse, one of HUB XV’s venues

professionals and small businesses a world-class working environment and business community.

This all came together for us at the start of the summer at Bath Racecourse, HUB XV’s first venue.

Can you tell us about your business background?

After retiring from first-class rugby, I became business development director at Amplified Business Content before co-founding the Entrepreneur Wales Awards.

I’ve developed a global network of relationships through rugby to help ignite high-level enterprise partnerships across multiple industries and sectors. This has resulted in putting together a board at the head of HUB XV. What sets HUB XV apart?

There are two very good reasons.

Firstly, our unique sporting heritage creates a very strong and supportive business community that will help members achieve their goals and access special deals and discounts.

We offer beautiful working environments that put the wowfactor into every working day – places that buzz with a vibrancy that inspires members to perform to the best of their ability.

In a nutshell, what does HUB XV do?

We turn sports clubs into business hubs by turning underused hospitality areas in sports stadia into premium collaborative workspace.

Our business community includes professional athletes who bring elite performance behaviours and open up great networking opportunities for our members.

Based in world-class sports stadia, HUB XV puts standard co-working venues in the shade. At Bath Racecourse, we have a stunning

environment where members can connect with like-minded professionals and thrive within a supportive working community.

When and why did you start it?

The co-working concept has spread rapidly since its emergence in the early 00s, with the number of community workspaces growing by 3,800 per cent globally over the last seven years. HUB XV taps into this efficient way to drive business, but takes it one step further. Our rich sporting heritage enables us to give

Co-working is at the heart of what you do – what’s your co-working ethos?

Our approach is underpinned by core values of teamwork, honesty and excellence. Again, the sporting element within HUB XV means we know what can be achieved when elite individuals work together.

What sort of benefits can HUB XV members expect?

Besides a stunning place to work and connect with like-minded individuals, members will have access to two monthly business seminars led by high-profile figures

from the worlds of sport and enterprise.

Most interesting aspects of your job?

As a professional sports person, I was a team player doing all I could to get those around me over the line to score tries. This is mirrored in what I enjoy doing in business – connecting people and lifting others higher so that they can achieve their own goals.

Favourite part of the city?

Bath is a beautiful city, but the surrounding countryside is stunning, with views that just add to the region’s appeal as a great place to do business. The location is perfect, which make it quick and hassle-free to get to.

What sort of events do you have coming up?

We’ve got our launch event coming up on 20 September. Welsh opera singer and Radio Wales DJ Wynne Evans will be hosting together with legends from the world of sport in a very special curtain-raiser to HUB XV. Further down the line, business seminars will be held from 6-9pm on the first Tuesday and third Thursday of every month.

Surprise us with a little-known fact about yourself...

I was honoured to meet Nelson Mandela prior to playing for Wales against South Africa back in 2004 in Pretoria. However, my match was cut short when my temple clashed with another player’s knee. I just remember waking up in hospital with nurses kissing my hand because it had touched Nelson Mandela.

www.hubxv.com

OFFICE SUPPLIES OFFICE FURNITURE OFFICE MACHINES

DELIVERIES TO YOUR DOOR...

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

Woods the stationers

OUR SHOP HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED IN BATH FOR OVER 200 YEARS

Come in for all your day to day and gift stationery

12 Old Bond Street, Bath Tel: 01225 445 347

BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH RUGBY NEWS

BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY From networking breakfasts to invaluable evening courses, make a note of the courses and classes that will help your business flourish

Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters

18 SEPTEMBER HOW TO MANAGE WELL-BEING FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS Rocket-powered tips to help you better manage, motivate and lead, with proactive well-being strategies to help you get the very best out of your organisation and your people. www.manage-and-thrive.co.uk

© PATRICK KHACHFE/ONSIDE IMAGES

Eager rugby fans at The Clash match

One of the biggest sporting and entertainment events makes a welcome return next year, which will see age-old rivals, Bath Rugby and the Bristol Bears, take each other on in ‘The Clash.’

Now in its third year, the Battle of the West Country between Bath and Bristol is taking place at Twickenham Stadium on Saturday 6th April 2019. In previous years, The Clash has seen more than 61,000 fans attend.

Those attending can expect entertainment in the West Fan Village, live music, local food and drink stalls, Q&As with the rugby players and a pre-match show, as

well as the big match.

“Next year, The Clash sees us battle Bristol Bears for the South West – it’s an event you will not want to miss,” says Bath Rugby’s marketing director, Vicki Smith. “We’re looking forward to turning HQ blue, black and white for another unforgettable day.”

Todd Blackadder, Bath Rugby director of rugby, added, “Seeing Twickenham full of Bath Rugby supporters is something the team and I will never forget. It’s an incredibly special event and we cannot wait to get back on the hallowed turf next April.”

Tickets are now available to the public: www.bathrugby.com

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

Senior promotions for Ruth and Wayne at Dorothy House Hospice Care

19 SEPTEMBER LEGAL ADVICE Law firm Stone King is holding a community coffee morning with the theme 'understanding your options for long-term care.’

The session is part of a series of free and informative sessions with solicitor Sarah Clarke, from the trusts and estates team, answering questions. Refreshments will be provided.

BRLSI in Queen Square; www.stoneking.co.uk 20 SEPTEMBER GET FIT FOR BUSINESS Informal speed-networking event for businesses, organised by Bath Chamber of Commerce – increase your network, promote your business, share knowledge and experience, and enjoy a quality breakfast in unique surroundings, to boot. www.businesswest.co.uk 27 SEPTEMBER BUSINESS ESSENTIALS FOR NEW BUSINESSES This practical one-day workshop provides essential tools and information for setting up and running your new business. Key topics include understanding your customers, marketing your business, creating the right image, tax issues for start-ups, action planning and more. www.coolventures.co.uk 28 SEPTEMBER INSPIRE BUSINESS BREAKFAST Network over a delicious breakfast at Cumberwell Park in Bradford on Avon, and listen to inspiring speaker Charlotte Marshall-Reynolds – founder of Arctic travel specialists, TravelBee – talk about her company’s growth and success. www.inspirebiz.co.uk

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC SHINE ON Dorothy House Hospice Care has just appointed Wayne de Leeuw the joint role of director of patient, family services and deputy chief executive of Dorothy House, and Ruth Gretton has been promoted to director of nursing.

Wayne was previously executive clinical lead for community services at the hospice, and Ruth’s prior role was executive clinical lead inpatient services at Dorothy House.

Wayne says, “This is an exciting and challenging time to be working in hospice care. The model that has sustained us over the past several years needs to be reviewed, and new partnerships, alliances and financial contracts forged to ensure people continue to receive outstanding end-of-life care and support.

“Our new strategy, due to be launched in the autumn, provides the perfect platform for this work.”

The hospice provides free palliative care to patients, their families and carers across B&NES, Wiltshire and Somerset.

For more: www.dorothyhouse.org.uk ONE FOR THE ROYDS UK Top 100 law firm, Royds Withy King, has been accepted as a corporate partner of the Institute of Legacy Management (ILM).

The firm, which has two offices in Bath, is one of only 12 other firms of solicitors selected in the country.

Partner Samantha O’Sullivan says, “This demonstrates ILM’s confidence in the expertise of our lawyers in the charities and not-forprofit team, and our dedication to supporting our clients.”

For more: www.roydswithyking.com

Call Monahans Wealth Management on 01225 472800 Lennox House, 3 Pierrepont Street, Bath BA1 1LB www.monahans-wm.co.uk

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FANTASTIC FOUR

© GYM MARINE

© ANDY LLOYD

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

“Aside from being our natural choice for locating the shop due to our roots here, Bath is perfectly placed for companies like ours in the luxury industry due to the easy transport links, its world heritage status and the popularity of the city as a weekend and holiday destination for people all over the world.

We are excited to be planning a national roll-out of concept stores, under the brand name ‘Gym. Design’, with Bath as our HQ.”

For more: www.gymmarine.com

GRAND DESIGNS

New to the city is Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors, a gym design firm that specialises in designing fitness spaces for luxury homes and superyachts. Located on Broad Street, their work also extends to commercial gym design. The company has been operating for four years, and is now the recognised expert for gym design and outfitting worldwide.

The founder of Gym Marine – Edward Thomas – is Bath born and bred and has lived in the city for many years.

“This year, we have chosen to open our first shop in Bath to attract more domestic customers who want to investigate integrating gym equipment into their homes,” says Edward Thomas.

TOP: The GymPool Spa at Gym Marine; ABOVE: The Royal Crescent; BELOW:

Steven Greenwood, managing partner at Stone King LLP; TOP RIGHT: David Gledhill and Greg Ingham at the Boules Reception at Framptons

© STONE KING LLP

STYLE IT OUT

The Bath Property Awards will be held on 23 November at the Apex Hotel, hosted by TV property show star Martin Roberts, and will celebrate all aspects of the dynamic property market – from residential to commercial, from lettings to new-builds, from civic buildings to bold reimaginings.

If you want to nominate your company for the Bath Property Awards, the deadline is 4 October at midday. Finalists will be revealed at midday on 9 October by email.

The awards are open to anyone interested or working in the property scene in Bath, whether you’re an agent, developer, architect, designer or property-focused financial and legal company.

“It’s been inspiring to see the volume of nominations flowing in for the first-ever Bath Property Awards,” says Steph Dodd, event director at the event’s organiser, MediaClash.

“If you’ve not entered yet, there’s still time – but you’ll need to act swiftly as the deadline is fast approaching.”

For more: www.bathpropertyawards. co.uk/To join the bill of sponsors and to benefit from the awards, contact Rosanna Hood rosanna.hood@mediaclash.co.uk

THE VERDICT IS IN

Bath law firm Stone King LLP has been shortlisted for the Large Law Firm of the Year in the Law Society’s Excellence Awards 2018.

This is the first year The Law Society will award the accolade and it will mark the 12th Excellence

Awards, which aim to celebrate excellence across the profession and champion the work of solicitors across England and Wales.

Managing Partner Steven Greenwood says, “Stone King LLP are delighted to have been shortlisted for this accolade, especially as it is the first year it is being awarded. Stone King are national leaders in the education and charity sectors, and we continually strive to deliver the best service for our clients. We are now looking forward to the awards.”

The law firm dates back to 1785 in Bath, and also has offices in Birmingham, Cambridge, Leeds and London.

The national firm is one of 10 to be shortlisted in this category. Award winners will be chosen by a panel of expert judges and announced on 17 October at a ceremony in Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane, London.

BOULES–EYE

Record sums have been raised for local charities by this year’s Bath Boules. Some £50,364 will be dispersed to Bath charities by the trustees in the coming months.

The first £20K has already been allocated to the following: First Steps Bath, Jessie May, Stratton House MHA, RICE Dorothy House, Julian House, Off the Record, Age UK and Golden Oldies.

At the Boules Reception, held at Framptons, a packed crowd of charities, sponsors and teams heard from headline sponsors Royds Withy King, the Boules Trustees and the event organisers, MediaClash.

Event director Steph Dodd says, “The Boules is great for Bath: an amazing combination of fun, fund-raising, socialising and networking, with the merest soupçon of the simplest sport ever. It unites thousands of residents, hundreds of businesses and dozens of charities; the civic, commercial and the social good.”

Dates have been set for next year: 13-16 June, with team tickets on sale at midday, March 13.

For more: www.bathboules.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 115

BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2018

Co-founder of DOODLEMATHS Tom Minor tells us about the growth of the educational app, and plans to go global So, how did it feel to win a Bath Life Award?

It was a genuine surprise! The education category was fiercely contested. But since many of us are former teachers, we were over the moon.

EDUCATION WINNER SPONSORED BY

How did you celebrate?

Immediately, there was a rather exuberant spraying of champagne across our table in the Assembly Rooms! Later the following week, we went for drinks with the team and Bluefuse Systems (our technology partners) at Framptons.

Where is your award now?

We have a matching pair – we won the award for Technology and Innovation in 2017 – they are very visibly on display as you walk in to our offices.

Why do you think you won?

We are a Bath company which has a significant local impact (over half the primary schools in Bath use DoodleMaths) and also, increasingly, a global reach. In the last year, we have educated thousands of children in the UK, but also agreed contracts in Australia, US, Nigeria and Brazil.

As a company, what sets you apart?

For a technology company, we have a really strong connection to our customers – we personally speak to hundreds every week.

What do you love most about your job?

© JENI MEADE

I’m excited by what we could achieve with DoodleMaths, particularly in more disadvantaged communities.

The winning team: Co-founders Tom Minor and Nicola Chilman

and canal towpaths into town. I’d probably give you a different answer in the winter, though.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

“Always do what you say you’re going to do.”

Business heroes?

I’ve just read Richard Branson’s autobiography. He has consistently built successful businesses through great branding, customer service and team culture. Now he’s concentrating on giving back.

Future plans? Any news to share, or exciting projects in the pipeline?

September sees the release of DoodleEnglish, and, in October, we will start work with the Breteau Foundation, using DoodleMaths to educate children in Columbia, South Africa and Lebanon.

Tell us something about yourself or the company that might surprise us…

My co-founder, Nicola Chilman, is also my wife. We were both local teachers before starting DoodleMaths – Nicola taught at Clarendon College in Trowbridge, and I taught at Writhlington School in Radstock.

What do you love most about working in Bath?

Right now, I’d say my commute. I live in Bathford, so my journey to work involves a gentle cycle along the river

For more: www.doodlemaths.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Inspiring young lives Bath-based charity MENTORING PLUS trains and supports adult volunteers to mentor children and young people across Bath & NE Somerset. Mentors and mentees meet up once a week to head out and about, have fun and chat – and the charity has a constant need for new volunteers Having been mentored herself, Ebonie now volunteers her own time to peer-mentor younger girls at regular Mentoring Plus activity sessions

A mentor can inspire a young person to be who they really are

Y

oung people are referred to the charity when they’re facing significant challenges in education, at home or with their peers. One young person who can explain first-hand how important mentoring was for them is 17-year old Ebonie.

“When I was first mentored, my main challenge was school,” she says. “I never attended school in year 9 for about 9 months.

When I was there I was always being sent out of lessons, getting into arguments with teachers, and I was excluded multiple times.”

Ebonie was matched with a positive, energetic female mentor who had faced her own challenges in her teens, and the two developed a great rapport. “In my mentoring sessions, we would go to different cafés every week and talk about whatever. I mainly talked about school because that was what I struggled the most with.”

Mentoring is not just about dealing with problems, but also pursuing the child’s positive interests and connecting with clubs, venues and opportunities that might inspire them for the future.

Ebonie and her mentor shared an interest in the arts, theatre and fashion, and planned two trips to London during their year together.

“One was to visit a fashion museum and the other was to visit the ASOS studios, which 118 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

was amazing” explains Ebonie. “A mentor can inspire a young person to be who they really are and give them a big confidence boost for a wide range of different skills,” Ebonie has now completed a college course and is considering apprenticeships.

She’s passionate and articulate about the needs of young people, helping to lead both the charity’s Youth Reps advocacy group, campaigning to get young voices heard by decision-makers, and the Girls’ Group, where she peer-mentors younger girls to have more confidence. “I want more youth services, and more support in schools. We need more

“EBONIE HAS NOW COMPLETED A COLLEGE COURSE AND IS CONSIDERING APPRENTICESHIPS”

people to listen to us,” she says.

That includes more adult volunteer mentors, of course. Her message to anyone considering mentoring? “First of all, do it because YOU want to do it! Do it because you care, and do it because you want to help a young person succeed. You won’t realise the impact it actually has on a young person and even yourself until you’ve done it!” ■ Could you inspire a young life like Ebonie’s? Adult mentors can be any age and need no previous experience; full training and support is given. Volunteers commit to two days’ training and a full year of regular weekly mentoring (allowing for holidays), in school hours for primary mentees or after school hours for secondary. Mentoring expenses and travel are paid. For more information and a no-obligation chat, please call Mentoring Plus on 01225 429694 or see www.mentoringplus. net/volunteer

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

Oriel Lodge A highly rated residential care home, specialising in dementia care for the elderly. With local, friendly management and staff, Oriel Lodge prides itself on the quality of service it provides all its residents.

Oriel Lodge has several amenities including an in-house chef who provides high quality meals. It also has a conservatory with spectacular views of Bath, provides regular activities centred around its residents’ lives, and has a quiet area for residents.

Please call us to talk about your needs, or arrange a visit.

Oriel Gardens, Swainswick, Bath BA1 7AS info@oriellodge.com • 01225 310 301 • www.oriellodge.com

A PLACETO CALL HOME

PROPERTY A PL ACE TO C ALL HOME

THE OLD RECTORY

Take a look inside this handsome and historic former rectory set in a delightful village close to Bath

By Evelyn Green www.mediaclash.co.uk MEDIACLASH.CO.UK I BATH LIFE I 121 141

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

PROPERTY

A

part from its name and when it was built (the late 17th century if you’re wondering), there’s nothing old about The Old Rectory in Claverton. The house is certainly not in need of a modern update; internally the arrangement is superb, as the property has been the subject of meticulous refurbishment, with all enhancements having been executed with serious style.

Obviously we know, and you know, that whoever buys this house is not going to receive it fully furnished, but we can’t not talk about the décor here; it showcases what can be done with the space; it’s like a real-life Pinterest board. Quirky chandeliers dangle from ceilings, modern art is scattered everywhere you look, contemporary, creative fixtures and furnishings beautify every nook and cranny, and although there’s a bounty of beautiful items, all the while the look remains clean and uncluttered.

Although the current owners will likely take everything with them when they move out, certain

elements of the home will be handed over to the new owner, such as its wonderfully large windows; its fine oak floors; its original restored fireplaces; and its many architectural details, like the ceiling mouldings and panelled doors, typical of the period the home was built.

The new owner will also get to make use of its cosy alcoves, such as the one in the lounge – an ideal spot for a squashy sofa on which to curl up with your favourite book – and the one in the bedroom in front of a window, where the current owner has placed a vanity table and mirrors.

In the kitchen, the arched doorways make an artistic statement either side of the wall-width ovens and cabinets; that’s probably our favourite room; or is it the elegant drawing room? Or the dining room with incredible views over the garden and across to the Limpley Stoke valley? Or the games room featuring a log-burning stove and a snooker table? Or the master bedroom and its mosaic-tiled en suite? There’s too much choice – even the central two-storey porch, which has a date stone over the wide plank front door, is a space we’d be happy to spend our lives in.

Outside, the house offers incredibly attractive elevations, with large stone mullion windows and a trio of gables, the central one (curvilinear) in a Dutch style. A gravel parking area with an electronic gate makes parking easy, and the large formal garden with established yew hedges and copse provides a lovely setting.

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PROPERTY

There is mature woodland – complete with a treehouse – at the base of the garden, giving privacy to the property. Beautifully maintained to an exceptional standard, the grounds have been thoughtfully landscaped, with blooming flowers and a vegetable garden with raised beds.

Just when you thought that was it, there’s also an attractive and productive kitchen garden, a pretty bothy – which could become a quaint play room – two stone outbuildings offering useful storage space, a cellar and workshop underneath the house, and there’s even a Rectory Cottage – a two-bedroom self-contained annexe.

The situation is just as delightful as the house; Claverton is a historic manorial settlement close to the southern side of Bath. Nestled between Claverton Manor and Warleigh Manor in undulating countryside, the valley was the subject of landscaping and grand planning during the 17th and 18th centuries, the legacy of which is enjoyed today.

We’re big fans of the charm and weathered good looks of The Old Rectory, but it’s all that comes with this most appealing village house that really steals our hearts.

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

HOUSE NUMBERS Square footage

6,832

Bedrooms

9

Bathrooms/cloakrooms Price Where

5 POA

Claverton

What else? A two-bedroom selfcontained cottage, outbuildings, a cellar, a games room, a treehouse Savills Bath, Edgar House, 17 George Street, Bath BA1 2EN; 01225 474 500; www.savills.co.uk

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Why many buyers are looking to reconnect with the river

W

Peter Greatorex from the APARTMENT COMPANY explains…

ith the sun beating down, the warm weather is shining a new light on what our city has to offer.

Our waters have been attracting people to Bath for centuries, but it’s not just the healing powers that appeal, rather the works being undertaken to help us reconnect with the river.

As the city has grown, we have kind of turned our back on the River Avon. Now, thanks to the Bath Quays Waterside project, this is changing. I don’t know if you have ventured down to the river lately, but take a stroll and see the beauty in this often overlooked part of our landscape.

We are already seeing a number of new and dynamic developments taking advantage of the changing scenery, and according to Bath and North East Somerset Council this change could potentially generate 3,400 new homes and 9,000 new jobs.

The river is now being seen as an inspiring place to live close to, especially with the associated health benefits of living near the water.

THE AIR THAT YOU BREATHE Fresh air that has been exposed to water helps your body absorb oxygen, due to it being charged with negative ions. Fresh air is known to be good for the mind, body and soul.

rejuvenated every morning.

With many developments already in construction and more in the pipeline, it is no surprise to us at The Apartment Company that we are seeing an increased demand from buyers and investors wishing to focus their property search along the river.

Let us show you how Bath is once again reconnecting with the river and the lifestyle opportunities river living can offer you. ■

FEELING HAPPIER People who live close to water tend to be happier, this could be because, as scientists have discovered, looking at water fills your brain with the ‘feel good’ hormone, dopamine, and can send you into a meditative state known as ‘Blue Mind’.

GENERAL WELLBEING Living near water is also known to strengthen your immune system and help fight off illness; these lucky people tend to sleep deeper and feel

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

AJ Removals Removals - Storage - Shipping - Packing

Tel: 01225 404060

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www.ajremovalsbath.co.uk

CHANGE OF SCENE Here’s our pick of the residential new-builds and developers making the biggest impact on the city…

By Lisa Evans

Hope House is a modern development, yet aims to encapsulate the Georgian grandeur of its surrounds

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

PROPERTY

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ake a virtual site tour of a handful of the city’s new and impressive domestic developments which are springing up all over the place, and decide which side of the fence you sit on when it comes to whether Bath has room for modern builds or if it should be frozen in time to maintain its Georgian heritage.

HOPE HOUSE Bernice McKenna, regional sales manager at Acorn Property Group Tell us about the developer/builder…

“Acorn Property Group is an independent development and regeneration company that has, for over 20 years, created a range of residential-led refurbishment and new-build schemes. We specialise in bespoke developments to meet the local community’s needs.”

What is your recent local project?

“Hope House is our first development – featuring 58 luxury apartments and houses – in Bath, and we are excited to be creating such an exclusive and prestigious development, in keeping with this beautiful

city. It is modern, yet encapsulates the Georgian grandeur of its surrounds and embraces a relaxed country-like lifestyle and feeling of living in the grounds of a stately home.”

What stage is the development at?

“Construction started last year, and many of the houses and apartments are out of the ground and are taking shape nicely; restoration works are also progressing well on the Grade-II listed building, with completion anticipated for spring 2019.”

What are Hope House’s special features?

“It’s nestled within six acres of private parkland, complete with grand formal lawn and tennis court. Each home is characterised by a sumptuous and sophisticated specification and they all enjoy the convenience of allocated parking and a dedicated concierge service.”

What did the site used to be?

“It was the former Bath Royal High Junior School, where ‘Queen of baking’ Mary Berry once attended. The original Hope House building was built in 1781.”

What do you think are the best developments in the city?

“Somerset Place is a good example of an authentic classic Georgian crescent which has been revived and rejuvenated.” www.hopehouse.org.uk

“Enjoy the convenience of a dedicated concierge service” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 131

property Bath Riverside Marcus Evans, sales and marketing director

Rengen Developments Iestyn Lewis, CEO

“Bath Riverside is a £600M project which is contributing over 2,000 new homes to Bath’s housing market. It’s located on the waterside, on the former Stothert & Pitt Founders and Engineers; the site, which had remained derelict for over 25 years, was granted planning in late 2010.”

“The redevelopment of the Widcombe Social Club, the former Radway Service Station at Wellsway, the renovation of the Labour Exchange on James Street West, and the new headquarters for the Bath Sea Cadets and Piccadilly Place.”

Tell us about it…

Tell us about your recent Bath projects…

Who is the developer/ builder?

What’s the most current project?

What stage is the development at?

Tell us about more about the company…

“Crest Nicholson Regeneration. Both buildings were designed by renowned architects Studio Egret West. The soft edges and stunning curvature mimics the movement of the river, while historic materials blend with contemporary elements and pioneering design.”

“Construction started in 2011. Since then, over 400 homes have been sold on the open market. The development is about 40 per cent complete; when it’s finished, Crest Nicholson will have regenerated 44 acres of land that had remained untouched for decades, making use of land that better reflects the needs of a modern, forward-thinking city.”

How does it look?

“Regarded as being one of the most ambitious regeneration projects in the UK, the site is now being turned into a beautiful new development offering an extensive variety of property types, all displaying superb architectural flair. Currently, the build programme has resulted in the completion of the landmark building called Royal View, which comprises an elegant collection of one- and two-bedroom waterside apartments. Its sister building, Sovereign Point, is now well under construction.”

What are its special features?

“It’s one of the very few residential developments in the city that offers its residents direct access to the river, while also being close to the centre.”

What do you feel it’s added to the city?

“Architecturally, Bath Riverside offers something completely different, and has transformed Bath’s city skyline.” www.crestnicholson.com

“The company is currently behind plans to renovate the Belvoir Castle Pub on Lower Bristol Road, creating a large community room, new skittle alley and providing fully accessible toilets. The scheme will also include 10 one-bedroom apartments suitable for first-time buyers.”

“Rengen is a multi-disciplinary property developer, which focuses on brownfield sites in the South West.”

Is Bath an easy place in which to do this type of work?

“It has its own unique set of circumstances – with half the city being built on a hill, and the other half being subject to the spring water restrictions. No building in Bath is particularly straightforward to deliver, but that’s part of the unique nature of the city.”

How do you think Bath has changed over the years?

“The most progressive aspect for me is the significant reuse of surplus brownfield land. The prime residential market in Bath has changed beyond recognition, with selling price per square foot trebling in certain circumstances. There was almost a non-existent student accommodation market in Bath, which now has been transformed with the introduction of bespoke student blocks throughout the city.”

What are your favourite developments in the city?

“The Exchange on James Street West, Hope House, Fitzroy House, The Spa, Ensleigh South, and The Holburne Museum.” www.rengendevelopments.com

“It’s important to respect Bath’s architectural heritage, but we must not become a Georgian theme park”

Bath Riverside has been regarded as one of the most ambitious regeneration projects in the UK

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 133

PROPERTY ENSLEIGH Sue Scholfield, sales and marketing director at Linden Homes Western Tell us about the Ensleigh development…

“Set in an elevated position in the attractive Lansdown area of Bath, Ensleigh is an exclusive collection of three-, four- and five-bedroom homes, just minutes from Bath’s city centre. Homes are currently available, from £447,995 – £965,995.

“This is our flagship development in Bath, and its homes are situated near beautiful countryside and the racecourse. There are also several good schools for all ages close by, and it boasts easy access to the M4 and M5. When complete, the development will comprise 125 new homes, including a shop.”

What stage is the development at?

“Work started in 2016, and is due to be completed in 2020.”

Who’s the developer?

“Linden Homes. Building approximately 3,000 homes annually and committed to the redevelopment of brownfield sites, Linden Homes is the housebuilding division of Galliford Try, one of the UK’s leading housebuilding and construction companies.”

What do you think the city could do better?

“We need pioneering ways to recycle without large bins outside our front doors.” www.lindenhomes.co.uk

HOLBURNE PARK Francis Firmstone, director of Hardrock Developments Tell us about Holburne Park…

“We’re creating a new neighbourhood off Warminster Road, which offers a rare opportunity to own a brand-new, but classically designed, home in Bath. Set in a picturesque parkland location, bordering the Kennet and Avon canal, the neighbourhood has been created by Robert Adam, the acclaimed architect who’s responsible for the Duchy of Cornwall’s Poundbury.

“With expansive views of Bath’s skyline, the location of the new homes is very special; it’s within easy walking distance to the city centre while being surrounded by greenery and wide-open countryside.”

At what stage is the development?

“It was previously MOD land.”

“Work started two years ago and will take a couple more years to complete. Over 90 per cent of homes in the first release are now sold.

“We have recently started construction of the second phase, which includes larger homes for families. In 2019, we will start building apartments, providing lateral living, which is very hard to find in Bath.”

How do you feel you’ve improved the city?

Who is the developer/ builder?

What did the site used to be?

“We’ve created quality homes, as well as large areas of green space; there are also designated ‘food-growing areas’ for residents to utilise.”

What has been your favourite addition to Bath?

“The introduction of the Thermae Bath Spa celebrates the city’s rich heritage. I also love The Circle, it’s simply stunning, and the Crest development on the waterside has been done well.”

And what are your least favourite?

“It does frustrate me when parking hasn’t been considered, as it does lead to bigger problems.”

“Hardrock Developments Ltd.”

What did the sites used to be?

“The site was a key part of the Ministry of Defence infrastructure.”

How has Bath altered over the years, as you see it?

“I’ve enjoyed seeing numerous improvements to the city over the past decade. Prior to that, it felt rather stuck in aspic, and was a hard place to do things. Recent improvements range from relatively small but high-impact things like the cleaning of the soot-blackened buildings on The Paragon to big changes like a new casino.” www.holburnepark.co.uk

“I’ve enjoyed seeing improvements to the city over the past decade.

Prior to that, it felt stuck in aspic”

The Ensleigh development is just minutes from the city centre

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 135

property

“The city desperately needs more affordable housing”

Woodstock Homes are within what was previously the grounds of the historic Georgian mansion of Chewton Court

Kersfield David Newton, CEO

If you had the power, what would you do to the city?

“We’ve invested over £70M into residential projects in Bath in the last three years, that will create over 100 new homes. Most of the sites we have developed were regeneration opportunities where we have turned derelict or dilapidated buildings into vibrant new communities. We have also contributed very significant sums to provide much-needed affordable housing.”

Andrews Land & New Homes James Read, land and development manager, Andrews Land & New Homes

What has Kersfield added to the city?

How Bath has changed over the years?

“There has been more regeneration in Bath than at any other time since the 1970s, mainly owing to the release of the Riverside development, the Hope House site, and three former MOD sites.

“The council has put forward its place-making plans which include Bath Quays and over 50 other sites, that will regenerate most of the neglected or poorly utilised parts of the city. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the quality of the regeneration in Bath is much higher than most other cities.”

Do you think the ‘modern’ has a place in Bath?

“Improve the traffic and transport problems. We need to stop cars using Bath as a through-route to other places.” www.kersfield.co.uk

Tell us about your recent local project…

“Woodstock Homes (one of Andrews Land & New Homes’ clients) has delivered a development on the market called Chewton Court, between Bath and Keynsham, bringing new-home living to the countryside around Bath.”

What are your project’s special features?

“With new developments, both externals and interiors are equally important. Unlike a lot of new-builds, we have a lot of space, being based in the river Avon Valley, with large gardens rolling down to views across Bath’s greenbelt. The interiors include wood-burning stoves, oak staircases and doors, and underfloor heating.”

“It’s important that developers respect Bath’s architectural heritage, but we must also not become a Georgian theme park. There is definitely room for contemporary architecture.”

What did the site used to be?

What do you think the city needs more of?

How do you feel you’ve improved the city?

“The city desperately needs more affordable housing so that we retain more of our talented students and young families who have been priced out of the city.”

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

“They are within what was previously the grounds of the historic Georgian mansion of Chewton Court.”

“We’ve given the option of a very high-spec luxury new development in a countryside environment of great natural beauty that’s a short journey from the centre of Bath.” n www.andrewsonline.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Why pragmatism on prices is key to a successful sale UK house prices have grown by 1.3% so far this year and, following two consecutive months of modest growth in June and July, there is a feeling that house prices are beginning to stagnate

M

ore homes came to market in June this year than at any time since August 2013 and we have been surprised to see that there has been a small rise in new buyer enquiries as well . While this has yet to translate into rising market activity – transactions continue to be lower this year than last – there are signs of some positive movement.

Indicators of strength within the economy prompted the MPC to increase the base rate to 0.75 per cent. With so many home owners on fixed rate mortgages, the effect of the rise has yet to be felt. Ultimately however, we expect annual mortgages to increase by £137 for the average household, putting pressure on the many whose earnings have shown little movement in the last couple of years.

Prime property values outside of the capital have shown little movement over the past year and while some parts of the country have seen modest price rises, the regional prime market on the whole remains price sensitive. This is very much a reflection of the economic and political backdrop, which continues to cast uncertainty across business and consumer markets. The prospect of future increases in interest rates, alongside the burden of stamp duty and lack of impetus from the weak London market are all playing a role in the softening of prices of properties worth more than £1 million.

As one of the country’s most desirable cities, Bath has performed incredibly well over the

“BATH HAS PERFORMED INCREDIBLY WELL OVER THE PAST FIVE YEARS, WITH GROWING DEMAND FOR HIGH-QUALITY URBAN LIVING FUELLING ROBUST PRICE GROWTH OF 20 PER CENT SINCE 2013”

SOLD UPPER LANSDOWN MEWS, BATH

SOLD GAY STREET, BATH

past five years, with growing demand for highquality urban living fuelling robust price growth of 20 per cent since 2013. The average price per square foot in the city is now £420 – nearly a third more than the average across the south of the country. Growth has been more subdued recently and while property in the city remains popular and the market resilient, pragmatism on price is essential, in particularly when taking into account that there is increasing competition amongst sellers.

We have seen the level of price adjustments to align buyer and seller expectations steadily increase since 2013 and this is expected to continue. The good news is that realistically priced property in Bath continues to sell well.

Competitive bidding is key to a successful sale and around a third of Savills sales in Bath still receive offers from three or more bidding parties, outperforming London by some 10 per cent. Again, this comes down to sensible pricing to generate interest.

FOR SALE RUSSELL STREET, BATH

FOR SALE SYDNEY ROAD, BATH

The prevailing market conditions are expected to continue for as long as there remains uncertainty over Brexit. The strength of the market then will be largely dictated by the economic impact of the final deal and based on the current state of play, negotiations may go down to the wire, which would have a knock-on effect on the spring market. On this basis we would advise those in the market to act now to secure a sale.

Savills Bath offers its clients a full appreciation of the market, based on in-depth specialist research and sound local knowledge. If you are thinking of buying or selling in Bath, contact our team of experts. n

Luke Brady; 01225 474501 lbrady@savills.com; savills.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 139

JUST VISITING

© R AY BURMINSTON

“I have done two Bath Half Marathons; I love the city”

DERMOT O’LEARY Ahead of his visit to Bath Children’s Literature Festival this month, Dermot O’Leary talks Harry Potter, Irish fairy tales at bedtime, and The X Factor…

Bath Children’s Literature Festival – Europe’s largest dedicated children’s literature festival – takes place this month, and you can expect a world-class line-up to thrill young book lovers.

Putting fun and laughter first, the festival is a chance for kids to meet the creators of their literary heroes, see illustrations come to life and fuel their imaginations.

Big names include David Walliams, Lauren Child, Tom Fletcher, Philip Pullman, Michael Morpurgo, Nadiya Hussain, Harry Hill, Anton Du Beke, and Dermot O’Leary.

At the ‘purrfect’ event with Dermot – one of the UK’s best-loved broadcasters, and The X Factor and BBC

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

Radio 2 presenter – hear all about Toto the Ninja Cat and the Incredible Cheese Heist, the second book in Dermot’s animal escapade series for animal-loving children. The book’s hero is the real-life Toto, who was rescued as a kitten by Dermot and his wife I’ve been to Bath before...

I have done two Bath Half Marathons; I love the city.

I hope to write more children’s books… the Toto

books in particular. I’ve loved writing the first two.

What’s new with me is… I’m

presenting the current series of The X Factor.

I have lots of bookrelated memories from my childhood… Both my

parents are big readers. My dad is great, he’s a born storyteller and he used to tell us old Irish fairy tales. I read Fantastic Mr Fox

by Roald Dahl independently when I was about six years old, and it got me hooked on reading.

I file To Kill a Mockingbird under ‘the one that stayed with me from school’. Atticus Finch is one of the greatest literary characters ever. His compassion and insight made an indelible mark on my younger self.

If I could go back and give my 10-year-old self some words of wisdom, they’d be… turn up

on time, and be nice to people.

I don’t have a life motto, per se… but I do like Toto’s moto:

“Purrs, paws and claws” [We’re not sure what that means either, but we like all those things].

Of all the books in the world, the one I wish I’d written is…

well, actually, that’s a hard one to answer; there are so many incredible ones. Sticking with

children’s books, I’d have to say Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling. I – along with millions of others – was hooked from the moment I first read it. I saw Harry Potter and the Cursed Child play recently, and it was fantastic. J.K. Rowling has created such an immersive world that kids (and adults) will enjoy for generations. n Toto the Ninja Cat and the Incredible Cheese Heist by Dermot O’Leary (illustrated by Nick East), publishes in paperback, £6.99, on 20 September, from Hodder Children’s Books. Dermot will be appearing with Nick East at the Guildhall, as part of the Bath Children’s Literature Festival, on 30 September. The festival will run from 28 September –7 October.

For more and to book tickets, visit www. bathfestivals. org.uk

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