Bath Life – Issue 398 by MediaClash

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property @BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 398 / 16 AUGUST - 30 AUGUST 2019 / £3

PLUS

ISSUE 398 / 16 AUGUST - 30 AUGUST 2019 / WEDDING SURVIVAL GUIDE

BROAD STREET TOWNHOUSE GOODBODY WELLNESS THE GRIFFIN ROSSITERS AND

SOME CREEPY ’70S PUPPETS

KICK-START YOUR WEDDING n DRESS LIKE A GODDESS n EAT LIKE A KING

n LIVE LIKE LORD AND LADY MUCK

IT’S OUR TO-DIE-FOR GUIDE TO MARRIAGE IN 2019

Redefining Style Our brand new practice is back open for business in the same location

Brad Abrahams Optometry, 2 Upper Borough Walls, Bath BA1 1RG T: 01225 444321 E: team@bradabrahams.uk.com www.bradabrahams.uk.com

EDITOR’S LETTER

This issue, we’re all about the happily ever after... BELOW: Check out this botanically-themed jar on p.72

ack in the day, everyone used to get married once, and that was it. And I don’t just mean they paired off for life – “she’s your lobster,” and all that Phoebe from Friends stuff, sweet though it is. I mean that when they got married – whether it was for the first time or, like Elizabeth Taylor, the eighth – they just did it once. (Don’t worry, some more topical references will be along in a moment.) Not so these days, of course. For instance, Karlie Kloss (Mammon-friendly model, and one-time Taylor Swift girl squad NCO) and Joshua Kushner (less reptilian and doll-like sibling to the more famous lost, haunted White House troubler) enjoyed two weddings within the same year: one a proper do (in upstate New York; the bride wore Dior) and the other a whopping great party on a Wyoming ranch eight months later, with people like Orlando Bloom and Katy Perry in attendance. Then there’s Queen in the North

Sophie Turner and her pop rocker hubby Joe Jonas of the Jonas Brothers, who had a quickie Las Vegas ceremony this summer, then a “doing it right” fairy tale bash at a French chateau, with Soph’s Game of Thrones sister Maisie Williams as maid of honour, and the couple’s mini-direwolf of a dog, Porky Basquiat, as groomsman. Porky, of course, wore a full-on DJ, complete with bow-tie.* What’s the point of all this? Well, not so long ago, back in another life, I used to edit Vow, a rather fine – though ultimately not hugely successful – wedding magazine for the West Country, and though that only ceased publication a year or so ago, nobody was talking about having a ‘second wedding’ back then. (Unless there was a divorce in the meantime, of course.) It shows just how quickly the wedding world is changing, and that the trends we celebrate this issue may not be quite the same as the ones we talked about a year ago, or will talk about again in the summer of 2020. Find out all about a very specific moment in marriage – doing the deed, 2019-style – on page 27, and as you do so think on this: are these celebs (and we’re talking the proper ones, not the Celebs Go Dating crowd) doing it twice because it’s spontaneous and fun and they can afford it, or simply because it gives them two bites at the Instagram cherry? I hate to be cynical (oh, who am I kidding? I love it), but in these cases I can’t help myself. Whatever you do, make sure no one has any reason to feel cynical about your wedding. See, told you I’d treat you to some more topical references eventually! *

MATT BIELBY

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

Issue 398 / 16 – 30 August 2019 Cover Photo by Betty Bhandari

cover feature

27 weddings A guide to being a stylish, happy

bride (or groom), circa 2019

LIFESTYLE

25 inside story Prep your decor for winter 114 Lives One-time Bathonian Marisa Calin on her

very first film, to premiere at The Little Theatre

the arts

47 ARTS INTRO Delving into the hidden arts scene

of 1970s New York

48 WHAT’S ON Ways to spend summer in the city 61 BOOKS Nic takes us to the mountain top 63 Film Tales of men struggling as time flies by

food&DRINK

65 Food & DrINK news Save the world, drink gin 66 try 5 Bath’s most exciting new takeaway in an age 68 RESTAURANT Getting steeped in history (and

cocktails) at The Griffin

shopping

71 intro Cool ceramics inspired by the coast 72 editor’s choice Florally minded 74 broad street We take a tour of one of Bath’s

most vibrant (but easy to overlook) streets, home to a plethora of intriguing indies

Business

95 bath works Education, AI, Bath Property

Awards, oh my! It’s our newly redesigned (and mildly rethought) business news section

property

105 showcase Expertly renovated, effortlessly cool

departments

9 spotlight 15 Society 23 a man’s world

Editor Matt Bielby matt.bielby@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Editor Lydia Tewkesbury lydia.tewkesbury@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 Damon Charles Contributors Nic Bottomley, David Flatman, Philippa May, Paul Marland, Sophie-Claire McLeod and Matilda Walton Group Advertising Manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Advertising Manager Justine Walker justine.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Advertising Manager Polly Jackson polly.jackson@mediaclash.co.uk Account Manager Annabel North annabel.north@mediaclash. co.uk Sales Executive Louis Grey louis.grey@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). 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

spotlight TedxBath

the city and the City

Roger Deakins: genius cinematographer and snappy dresser

We’re slowly learning more about TEDxBath 2019, to be held in September at The Holburne Museum. This ideas-sharing series of short lectures – we’d call it a ‘conference’, but that sounds too boring – will see ten speakers tackle the nicely wide theme ‘Echoes of the City’. Not every speaker has been confirmed yet, but those announced so far include 18-year-old Frances Fox of the UK Student Climate Network and motivational speaker James Shone of I Can and I Am.

“As Bath’s first art gallery, we’ve always been about exploring the importance of creativity and imagination, especially in relation to our city in the past and present,” says Chris Stephens, director of The Holburne. “We’re deeply committed to engaging with the pressing themes and issues of today and are delighted to work with TEDxBath in their presentation of a diverse range of ideas about Bath and the relationship of its past and its future.” For more: www.tedxbath.co.uk

Well-deserved gongs

And the honorary doctorate goes to… Oscar-winning cinematographer Roger Deakins (Blade Runner 2049, The Big Lebowski, Skyfall) returned to Bath Spa University (where he studied ages back, when it was known as Bath College of Art) to receive an Honorary Doctorate of Letters from Bath Spa’s vice-chancellor, Professor Susan Rigby. “I’m incredibly honoured,” he said afterwards. “Meeting students and seeing their commitment to pursuing their passions is inspiring, reminding me of where it all began for me. To be a part of Bath Spa University’s creative and innovative community is a great privilege.” For more: www.bathspa.ac.uk

Patrick Haines with his latest seat: perhaps not as comfortable as it looks

The Holburne hosts the next TEDxBath

Art installation

TAKE A SEAT

Or maybe don’t. (It’s a priceless piece of art, don’tcha know.) Bath-based artist Patrick Haines – the guy behind the Herschel Chairs on the Bath Riverside – has unveiled his new piece for the Crest Nicholson development’s Elizabeth Park. This bronze sculpture of a two-seat chair – or perhaps a mini-sofa? – is a tribute to Leonard Jenyns, a Victorian clergyman and naturalist who was an unsung hero of modern science, turning down a chance to sail on HMS Beagle so that his colleague, Charles Darwin – you may have heard of him – could go instead. Jenyns was a longtime Bath resident who moved to the city in 1850 because of his wife’s ill health; he’s these days buried in Lansdown cemetery. Patrick says of the work: “I liked the idea of creating a space where the public can sit and notice references to the characters around them, footprints left in a poetical space where two people who changed the world came together.” For more: www.crestnicholson.com

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spotlight

You know what? The kids are alright

Mental health

into the blue

A new mental Professor health app could Paul, app reduce the risk of inventor self-harm among its users, according to research. The app, called BlueIce, has been created by Professor Paul Stallard of the University of Bath, and has now been added to the NHS app library, where it will be prescribed alongside traditional faceto-face therapies. The app has three parts: mood monitoring, where young people can record how they are feeling; mood-lifting, where users are automatically redirected to mindfulness guides and opportunities to challenge destructive thoughts when they record a low mood; and routing to emergency numbers in the event that they’re necessary. When Professor Stallard and the team analysed the app’s impact, they found that, after just 12 weeks, users aged 12-17 had actually reduced their self-harming. For more: www.bath.ac.uk The question is, did whoever was on the back stop pedalling at any point and make the other do all the work?

Anniversary ball

Grab your dancing shoes

Off The Record’s 25th Anniversary Ball is coming up this October – so you’ve got plenty of time to choose your outfit. The bash is a great chance to have a drink and a dance and support this local charity, one that works with young people in BANES on issues revolving around emotional and mental wellbeing. These guys offer counselling, listening support and coaching, youth participation, advocacy and specialist groups, as well as support for care leavers and LGBT+ youth. Tickets to the ball cost £65 and include a three-course dinner with wine, plus entertainment and music by Dave Mitchell Soul Band, who always bring high energy. Off The Record is also keen to speak to local companies and organisations who might be interested in sponsoring the event, ensuring even more money goes to where it’s needed the most – providing these extensive free services for young people. For more: www.offtherecord-banes.co.uk

Charity

Tandem madness

Here at Bath Life we love hearing about people doing mad things for charity, and it doesn’t get much madder than cycling up a mountain on a tandem bike. Will Trick and Dave Bowler took on Mont Vontoux in a 24-hour tandem ride from hell (we assume), in which they climbed up the Tour De France mountain four times to raise funds for Bath Rugby Foundation. The daring duo set out at 4am on Monday and finished their final grueling series of climbs just after 2am on Tuesday. In total they cycled over 100km and climbed 20,500 feet. So far they’ve raised over £8,000 – and donations are still open, if you can spare a few pennies. For more: www.bathrugbyfoundation.com

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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 Grant Carpenter and Kayleigh Bryant The Thrings table: Charlottte Dooling, Anna Christie, Ruth Irvine and Bill Thomas

The Deloitte Table: Laura Purvis and Abbey Freeman

WRACK YOUR BRAINS

The 20th anniversary of the epic Brain of Bath quiz took place in the Assembly Rooms back in July. Journo, broadcaster and Daily Mail columnist Bel Mooney took the helm as quiz master, keeping an eye on the 17 rowdy teams fighting it out to be crowned winner of this notoriously tough quiz, featuring such unusual elements as a frankly baffling smells round. After many tricky questions a very close top three emerged, with less than 10 points between them – and eventually Feilden Clegg emerged as victors. MediaClash came eighth. We’d rather not talk about it. But it’s not all fun and games – the quiz is in support of Julian House, and in addition to wracking their brains, competitors emptied out their purses, with £440 raised by the raffle and an additional £735 from the auction, which included a range of fab lots like a balloon flight with Bath Balloons, two tickets to a Bath Rugby home match and, the main event, a rather fine Mulberry handbag. www.julianhouse.org.uk; photos by Anna Barclay

Gemma Scrine, Andy Richmond and Susan Brennand

The winners: Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios

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SOCIETY

Jamie Barrow, Britain’s fastest snowboarder, giving his speech about #BeMoreFLY

Food from Goodness Grazers

Andy Watson and Chris WalkerHebborn, the Olympic swimmer and FLY instructor

FIRST LOVE

A brand new boutique gym, FLY Fitness, has opened on Bath Street. They held a swish launch event at the gym, with a few friends invited down to celebrate with owners Richard Campbell, Lucy Sutton and Tessa Campbell. In the run-up to the launch, FLY – which stands for First Love Yourself – ran a competition to gift a 12-month membership to three special people from Bath, who either entered or were nominated for overcoming some sort of adversity, be that to do with their physical or mental health, or a lack of ﬁnances and support. Jamie Barrow, Britain’s fastest snowboarder, was on hand to announce the winners of the campaign, known as #BeMoreFLY, and he gave some rather sweet speeches about the three very deserving membership recipients: Eddie Ilic, Rachel Stannard and Nicki Cawthorne. www.flyfitness.co.uk; photos by Polly Jackson

Kenton Simons, Jade Lau and Nerys Evans Milly Jackson, Wes Hosie and Lucy Sutton

Rachel Stannard, Eddie Ilic, George Redman, Megan Kilbane and Nicki Cawthorne (Rachel, Eddie and Nicki were all winners of #BeMoreFLY) Tony Piarson, David Boules and Bryony Campbell

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Richard Campbell, Danny Wring and Alex Leaman

Richard Campbell, Lucy Sutton and Tessa Campbell, co-owners and founders

SOCIETY

Victoria Barnett, Tom Boyce and Helen Gregory Caroline Entwistle and Jonathan Langdon

Ross Jones, Anna Arakcheeva and Maria Waters

ON THE MOVE

Ian Lloyd and Louise Grendon

Milsted Langdon recently moved to a brand new office on Queen Street. The top accountancy firm celebrated the jump to a much larger Bath office space by inviting friends and colleagues down to see the new place, catch up with the team and enjoy a few sneaky drinks and canapés – after all, what’s a work do without drinks and canapes? www.milsted-langdon.co.uk; photos by Gareth Hoskins

Duncan Battishill, Rachel Hotham and Andrew Jordan

Carl Powell and Sami Attia Mark Lucas and Racheal Verinder

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Charlie White and Jessica Bent

Dan Kenyon and Tim Brooksbank

SOCIETY

Ken and Vera Barnes Hans Metger and Ellis Reed

BLOSSOMING INTO SUMMER

The Ivy has just celebrated the launch of their summer-long collaboration with The House of Suntory. The restaurant marked the start of the new partnership with the Japanese craft spirits company with a gorgeous ﬂoral display – surely familiar to anyone who has walked down Milsom Street of late – spilling out from the doorway and taking over the terrace for guests and passers by to enjoy. The brasserie’s guests were treated to a sneaky try of the exclusive limited edition cocktails made with The House of Suntory’s spirits. They included Southern Elegance, a blend of Haku Vodka, passionfruit sherbert, Laurent Perrier Rosé, pineapple cordial and Ivy Champagne; and Toki Thyme, which mixed Toki Whisky, yuzu and honey, ginger and Jasmine cordial, smoked with lemon thyme. www.theivybrasserie.com; photos by Paolo Ferla

Sarah Hannoford and Nathan Johnson Charlie Carr Smith and Emily Zwolinski of House of Suntory

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Benice Hampton, Dave Walker and Karen Walker Dom Johns and Jack King

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A MAN’S WORLD DAVID FLATMAN

Once upon a time at the fest

Flats has (whisper it) never really got on with Glastonbury. But has that put him off festivals? Not a bit of it…

“I’m claiming it for the ‘Down to Earth Bloke’ section of my CV”

s mentioned eons ago in these pages, I have done Glastonbury twice and not really enjoyed it. Having relied solely on warm cider from quickto-sag cardboard cups to provide any chemical buzz, the sun and the dehydration and the loo situation made the whole thing rather unpleasant. I realise I may be the only human alive who admits to not adoring Glasto – I also realise that lots of intelligent people either dishonestly say they love it to appear grounded and rounded, or convince themselves post-event that it was amazing – but it was enough to put me off festivals for life. Until this summer; that is, when I’ve done three. Admittedly Smoked and Uncut at The Pig Hotel was only a one-day affair – and it rained apocalyptically throughout – but I took four kids there, so I’m claiming it for the ‘Down to Earth Bloke’ section of my CV. It was wet but it was fun. And I took my daughters to Camp Bestival, which was as ferociously sunny and hot as The Pig was sodden, and offered us an unforgettable experience. The music, the food, the camping, the sugar crashes and homicidal seven year olds, the sitting around with mates chewing the fat and having our faces glittered by the kiddies, all made it a brilliant, brilliant time. Festi-faith almost restored. Then came Wilderness. With a similar vibe to Bestival, it was easy to navigate and lots of kiddies were running around having good times along with the grown ups. But there were plenty of kids, too, who looked utterly shattered and broken, but were being forced to stay lively in order that Mummy and Daddy could watch Robyn (a crushingly underwhelming set, in this writer’s view) on Saturday night, but to each their own. The place was very clean, the vibe very friendly and overall

I found it definitely a pleasant festival experience. Maybe, then, smaller festivals are the way to go. To this end, it got me thinking about parties and, if it took your fancy, weddings. Everybody loves a good wedding, but the best bit is always the second half of the reception, once everyone’s gotten a little loose and all the formal stuff is ticked off. So why not accelerate directly to that point? Imagine not having to wear hot suits and ties, and being able to bounce and flit around, festival-style, instead of sitting in position and having your conversational prospects clipped to the designed boy-girl-boy-girl square of guests around your allotted seat. You’d literally never get separated from those with whom you most wanted to chat and drink. You’d need a decent speaker system for the speeches, but any festival organiser has that equipment in the glove box (except those who ran Wilderness – Groove Armada’s long-awaited set was repeatedly blighted by faulty kit), and you’d probably need a swanky ‘open’ tent with flappy sides in case of rain but, to my mind, it would be so much cooler for its looseness and its wood-fired barbecues and its lack of a seating plan. All that’s needed is for someone to please make this happen and then invite me along. Oh, and I only do VIP camping, by the way. See? Grounded.

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

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inside story philippa may

Prep school Summer’s at its peak, but it’s a rather rainy peak, so Philippa’s gone back indoors again. Inevitably, she’s started prepping decor updates for the coming winter…

“Regardless of what kind of home you have, the devil really is in the detail”

t feels as though the end of summer is looming around the corner, and – as depressing as it is – all good things have to come to an end. Although I love the sun and lazing on the Crescent with dusk drinks, there’s a part of me also looking forward to spending more time at home in the evenings as they start to darken and we begin to prepare for Christmas. In the summer, we spend so many evenings out, enjoying the last of the sunshine after a day locked in at work, that the house gets very little attention. This coming month, in fact, it needs the opposite of a spring clean – an autumn pep up to prepare it for the hibernation that is sure to ensue when the weather gets grim. Regardless of what kind of home you have, the devil really is in the detail, and it’s the little, carefully thought out additions that make you love hanging out in your own space. If you don’t know where to start, I’ve put together a few recommendations for prepping your house for the impending hibernation period, to make sure that it’s not just comfortably cosy, but stylish too.

Go bold in small rooms

There’s a big misconception that to make a room feel bigger you should paint it white: wrong. Don’t be afraid to go dark in a small room; it will make it feel larger whilst also keeping it cosy.

Graphic prints can have a major impact and look fantastic in a small bathroom, especially when accompanied by a freestanding tub (you know you’ll be soaking in there all winter…). Try Farrow & Ball’s dark and dynamic Tourbillon wallpaper (seen in the picture above) for an elegant Art Deco appeal that would pair well with their Railings paint for a standout loo guests will admire, and you’ll happily settle into with a good book and candle.

Invest in the anchor of the room

If you’re thinking of splashing some cash to prepare the house for imminent seasonal guests, don’t go wild with lots of little trinkets. You should be building up accessories with meaning throughout the year, so instead invest in rejuvenating the focus of the room, a single object that will get the most use or give the most pleasure. If it’s a bedroom, focus on the bed: new bedspreads always refresh a tired room (excuse the pun), and Feather & Black, a more recent interiors addition to Bath, have some gorgeous linen sheets to layer for the rustic look. Don’t forget to go heavy on a big throw for the cold weather – it’ll save you on heating bills. If you’re going all out, Brissi have just introduced a new Velvet Chantal bedframe that would look perfect piled with linen and velvet textures.

DIRECTORY

Farrow & Ball, 124-126 Walcot Street; www.farrow-ball.com Feather & Black, 10 Northumberland Place; www.featherandblack.com Brissi, 38 Milsom Street; www.brissi.com Looking Glass of Bath, 93-95 Walcot Street; www.lookinglassofbath.co.uk

Maximise the limited daylight with big mirrors

We all know what happens when the days begin to get shorter again, so make sure you’re saving for a big investment mirror to keep as much of that light bouncing around as possible. I recently picked up a bargain floor-to-ceiling mirror for our new dressing room, and already the space feels so bright, despite the window being relatively small. Mirrors also make the room feel a lot larger too, perfect if you don’t want to feel boxed up. Looking Glass of Bath have a treasure trove to discover, and if you can’t find anything perfect they’ll make you up something to your exact spec – their bespoke solid brass edged pieces are next on my list; bold, beautiful and local. As such, they’re a perfect investment. Philippa May is head of marketing for the Bath-based accessory label Abbott Lyon. Follow her on Instagram @_ philippamay_ www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 25

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2019 wedding guide

Thank goodness, summer is back

(and we’re in the mood to get married)

Welcome to Bath Life’s 2019 wedding guide, starring some (but by no means all!) of our favourite dressmakers, venues and more…

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 27

WEDDINGS

the dress

Empire of passion In Bradford on Avon, the South West’s wedding capital, sits Carina Baverstock Couture, born of a passion for fashion and promoting British bridal gowns with a vengeance

‘Tulisa’ dress by Caroline Castigliano

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his shop is my baby,” says Carina Baverstock, who’s been offering the most striking selection of high end gowns from her boutique in Bradford on Avon for nine years now. “It was born through a passion for fashion, and my feeling that we needed somewhere selling truly luxurious bridalwear in our area. Our ethos is simple – quality fabrics and exceptionally cut dresses, beautifully fitted by our in-house, couture-level seamstresses.” Her mum had always owned high end fashion boutiques, and Carina started helping her out age seven. Nothing, though, excited her quite like the “understated glamour, effortless elegance, beautiful tailoring and quiet perfection” of the best couture bridal wear. “When I meet a bride for the first time, I love to get to know her,” Carina says. “I like to know her taste, her style, her aspirations, then to help her achieve the look she wants – while always, of course, retaining the real ‘her’. We’re one of the very few boutiques to only stock British designers, with all our gowns handmade in the UK. I really feel we offer the crème de la crème of British design, and this time of year is especially exciting, as all the new collections start arriving. Whether it’s Caroline Castigliano’s utterly feminine full lace dresses with delicate detail, or Suzanne Neville’s contemporary, clean cut pieces in smooth Italian crepe, there’s something for every taste – and at every price point. Soft willowy tulles by David Fielden really work for festival brides, while stylish Dior-inspired dresses by Sassi Holford sit perfectly in country landscapes.” And as for current trends? “Sleeves are still hugely popular, and lace – especially intriguing 3D lace – is now loved again, having had a rest for a couple of years. The biggest trend, though? Femininity!” But of course. It’s not a cookie-cutter sort of femininity, though, as these days every bride wants to look unique. “Well,” says Carina, “she certainly wants her look to be remembered. So if she wants to be a magical nymph in a wood, we can do that – I’d recommend starting with David Fielden’s ‘Peaseblossom’. Or if she wants to be the understated siren in seductive body-moulding crepe, perhaps go with Suzanne Neville’s ‘Venus’.” And if you were getting married next year? “I would love, love, love Suzanne Neville’s ‘Petunia’, with its chic, sophisticated lines – and I would have booked it by now, as next year is looking particularly manic! It must be the magical 2020 date, but it’s attracted just so many weddings.”

clockwise from top left: Suzanne Neville’s ‘Venus’; ‘Peaseblossom’ by David Fielden, worn by real-life Carina Baverstock bride Hannah; Sassi Holford’s ‘Matilda’

Prices run £2,000-£4,000 (ex-display dresses from £800); www.carinabcouture.com

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weddings the dress

Accentuate the positive And, yes, Catherine Miller eliminates the negative, too

C Alison’s pieces are cut to fit and to flatter

the dress

That Seventies Glow The Seventies are back! (Or did they ever go away?) Not according to Alison Miles…

t Alison Miles Couture in Oldfield Park they create custom dresses inspired by Dior, Givenchy and more. “This is a wonderful time to be involved in wedding fashion,” Alison says. “The current trend for all things ’70s – well, the best bits anyway! – means the boho look is still going strong, with flower crowns, glam rock and fringe details. Colour highlights – especially greens and bon bon shades – are hugely popular too, and there’s still a strong emphasis on texture with dotty tulles, pleating and feathers all on trend.” Blimey! That’s a lot to take in. “Oh, that’s not all. Even bows are back – eeek!” Alison’s been creating beautiful bespoke bridal and occasion wear for 35 years now; her work tends to be timeless and classical, using exquisite fabrics. “I love to work with my customers to design a piece that’s cut to flatter and fits perfectly,” she says, “and the great thing about a bespoke wedding gown is that there are no limits.” None? “I’ve made white ones, black ones, and all colours in between. It doesn’t even have to be a dress, so I’ve made jumpsuits, tulle capes… Really, everything is possible. In the safe hands of an experienced designer, you can relax in the knowledge that the creation will be exactly as you dreamed it would be.” www.alisonmiles.com

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

atherine Miller designs and makes bridal gowns and occasion wear in silks and French laces from her base in Lower Weston – the first one she ever made was for her Sindy doll, aged eight – and tries to take a relaxed approach to her work. “Stressing is very negative and achieves so little,” she says, “and I hope that my relaxed, assured and positive approach comes across to any potential client. A pushy approach is abhorrent to most – me included! – so I’m very laid back.” Catherine doesn’t create collections but instead makes each dress from scratch, modifying her style to match an individual. “I consider personality, shape and size,” she says, “and always focus on the positive attributes of each woman. What’s supposed to be in fashion won’t always suit the person who’s come to see me, and any important garment – be it wedding gown or cocktail dress – should first and foremost be a reflection of that individual. I’ve had the good fortune to have worked with some inspirational and intuitive women over the years, so I’ve made everything from a red wedding gown – emulating an hibiscus flower! – to a tangerine-coloured, sculptured confection. But although there have been many less traditional dresses, I’ve created more traditionally elegant ones too. They’ve all been beautiful, though, and have expressed the style of each client.” And if you were to get married yourself next year? “I’d choose a column dress with a small kick train in a duchesse silk satin or silk zibeline and French Chantilly corded lace.” Sounds amazing! “Well, it would certainly say something about me – my friends would concur with that! – but it wouldn’t be for everybody. In fact, I’ve a family member getting married next year, and she’ll be wearing something entirely different, as her size, shape and personality dictate.” Catherine’s dresses begin at £1,200, and rise according to the complexity of the design, and the types of silk and lace involved; she does, however, work as much as she can within the budget of each bride. www.silkspecialistcatherinemiller.co.uk

Catherine began by dressing her Sindy dolls and went from there

ALISON MILES co u t u r e

Contemporary and Traditional Wedding Gowns individually designed and made to measure in the most beautiful silks Bespoke Vintage Brooch Bouquets Enquiries/appointments 01225 336805 Email: alison@alisonmiles.co.uk www.alisonmiles.com

WEDDINGS JEWELLERY

SHIMMER AND SHINE We’re lucky enough to have a number of world class businesses in Bath, and the jeweller Mallory is one of them

allory, one of Britain’s great jewellers, has been at the heart of Bath since 1898, and is still owned and run by the same family, now in their ﬁfth generation. They’ve one of the largest in-house jewellery workshops in the South West here – it runs above the famous Bridge Street premises, with its Patek Philippe and Rolex watches, Chopard bangles and Faberge pendants in the window – where highly skilled goldsmiths craft exquisite pieces. “Pearls are a popular choice for brides,” says director Katie Vander Woerd, “as they bring an understated glamour that complements any style of bridal gown. Some brides also like to add a touch of blue for luck, using aquamarines or sapphire gemstones – usually paired with diamonds, for extra vivacity.” Right now, the guys at Mallory are seeing more and more requests for bespoke designs, with brides wanting to own a unique piece of jewellery. “This could be a one-oﬀ piece created for the special day,” says Katie, “or perhaps an incorporation of ‘old and new’ by remodelling an heirloom piece into a more wearable, modern item of jewellery. The focal point of any bride’s wedding day will undoubtably be her dress, but by adding the right jewellery she can really take the ensemble to the next level. We’d generally advise that you choose your bridal jewellery only after deciding on the style of dress, so if you have an ornate neckline, the bride may like to opt for a pair of drop earrings instead of a necklace. And with a simpler style, a statement piece might be more desirable.” www.mallory-jewellers.com

Mallory pieces come in all sizes and styles but have one thing in common: they’re each exquisite

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

STATIONERY

HOUSE OF CARDS Bespoke should mean bespoke, say the guys at Card and Light

t Card and Light, run by husband and wife duo Madeleine and Philip Field in Lower Weston, they create wedding stationery packages like few others; there are no templates or pre-made off-the-shelf designs on offer here, but instead each couple will get a personal design service devoted to producing truly unique wedding stationery, from save the date cards to laser-cut wedding folders, as well as invitations, place names, seating plans, order of service booklets and on-the-day signage. Bath’s own Eboni Beckford-Chambers – the England netball gold medallist and one-time Bath Life cover star – is a fan, picking for herself a copper foiled stationery package. “Our floral logo is simply beautiful,” she says, “and our guests were blown away by the bespoke folder we sent out, each containing their own personalised and copper foiled invites and inserts. Although my husband and I knew we were after something special, we’d not anticipated how stunning our wedding stationery would be.” www.cardandlight.co.uk

STYLING

FLY ME TO THE MOON At Simon Gerrard’s Crescent Moon they create wedding venues with a feeling of fantasy

imon Gerrard started Crescent Moon almost 20 years ago now; he has a background in set and stage design, and spent much of the ’90s touring with bands. “I create interiors that are theatrical and beautiful,” he says. “They’re the sort of fantasy landscapes that single events allow for, whereas regular interior design does not. We do this using lighting and furniture that’s in itself beautiful; we don’t just create the impression of something – it has a depth and quality to it.” Many couples approach Simon with a theme already in mind, which he then runs with to create a complete look for them, including all the lighting, draping, furniture, bars, dance floor area and staging. “A wedding could have a 1920s theme,” he says, “or a couple might want us to build a hanging garden, or reproduce the venue where they first met.” Others, however, will want to put together a look themselves, hiring single pieces to help – perhaps a vintage chandelier or a faux blossom tree. “The ‘outside-in’ theme is still very strong,” Simon says, “with interiors based around vines and foliage. From next year we’ll be offering giant wrought iron chandeliers with vines of flowers growing all around them to step up this look, creating interiors that really are a work of art.” In fact, this year it’s all been about chandeliers of every shape, size, and style, while for 2020 enquiries about faux blossom trees – both

Who doesn’t love a magical indoor forest?

tabletop-size and, well, tree-size – are really ramping up. “Ours are made with real wood and only use silk flowers, much better than the fibreglass ones you sometimes find. A few years ago, couples seemed to want interiors that were otherworldly, all white, or luxurious – with lots of rich draping – but this season the fashion’s been for theatrical woodland foliage and flowers. Next year looks likely to continue that theme, but with the foliage becoming even more floral, like colourful vines in a rainforest.” How much does all this cost? That’s a ‘how long is a piece of string?’ question, but it averages out at £3,000-£4,000, Simon says. www.crescent-moon.co.uk

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WEDDINGS Venue

Magic kingdom Grittleton House is both magical and massive; it’s the closest thing to getting married at Hogwarts

e’ve had an amazing three years,” says Emma Horrex, wedding co-ordinator at Grittleton House, just beyond Castle Combe north of Bath, which was operating as a school as recently as 2016. “The place has been transformed, and the weddings we now deliver are to such a high standard that we, as a family and a team, are so proud. Our next goal is to be the best and most talked about venue in the South West – and beyond.” Wow, ambitious, eh? But by no means impossible. Grittleton House is a Grade II* Victorian manor, originally built by the Neeld family as their home, as somewhere to display their paintings and statues, and as a great party destination. For the last 60 years, though, it’s been home to the Shipp family, who recently transformed it into a full time wedding and events venue. “With its beautiful interiors, outstanding architectural features and stunning gardens and grounds – not to mention the master bedroom, new for 2019 – it will take your breath away,” Emma says. “The house is yours for the duration of your stay, whether that’s for the day or a full-on weekend. It’s perfect for the most intimate or grandest of occasions.” This is the sort of place where everyone hangs around in the drawing room, sipping fizz as they get ready, or wanders about the place in their dressing gowns and slippers. “People say they feel comfortable, relaxed and at home here, despite the grandeur all around.” Pricing is completely transparent and on their website – perhaps budget from £4,000-£6,000 for a day – and, as the house is so special looking anyway, you can spend as much or as little as you like dressing it up; from the breath-taking formal Italian gardens and extensive woodlands to the stone arches and sweeping double staircase of the house itself, there’s certainly no shortage of photo opportunities.

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

We love an owl as ringbearer, and have you ever seen a more owlfriendly location than this?

“We love it when a wedding reflects a couples’ personalities,” Emma says, “so we once had the groom and ushers parachute in, while another couple and their guests all grew pumpkins to decorate their wedding. There have been dogs – and owls! – as ring bearers, a horse as the special guest, and the most theatrical flash mob cropping up throughout dinner. Some of the best moments are simple, though – I’m thinking of the look on the father of the bride’s face as he sees his daughter for the first time, or that magical first married kiss.” www.grittletonhouse.co.uk

EVENT STYLING AND PRODUCTION Chandeliers, blossom trees, table centres, furniture, lighting and props

View our stock:

www.crescent-moon.co.uk

SMARTY DRY CLEANING

GRAND OPENING EVENING 14th September 7–9pm

MON, WEDS, FRI, EACH EVENING COLLECTION & DELIVERY FREE OF CHARGE* *Subject to terms and conditions

Smarty, Bath 11 River Street Place, Julian Road, Bath, BA1 2RS

Smarty, Bradford on Avon Elms Cross Shopping Centre (next door to Sainsbury’s), BA15 2AZ

01225 444666

01225 862964

www.smartydrycleaning.co.uk

Prosecco and Canapés Please come and see the new salon £5 off with any booking made on the night

Caroline our newly qualified hairdresser will be building her clientele at 20% off. A great deal for the next 3 months only. 2 Upper Lambridge Street, Larkhall, Bath BA1 6RY Tel: 01225 462108 Vanessa Meyers Hairdressing

With no neighbours, you can party all night. (Well, can you see any?)

Venue

All yours Where d’you wanna get hitched? There are almost too many places to choose from at Orchardleigh

here are actually two venues on the Orchardleigh Estate – Orchardleigh House and Elmhay Park – and couples are granted exclusive use of each, being encouraged to treat them as if they were their own. Orchardleigh House itself dates back to the 1800s, but was derelict when it was bought by its current owner, Chris Vincent, some 20 years back; he’s since had his work cut out for him restoring it to its former glory, and now runs the place as a venue with his partner, Heather – who was actually born here, and has lived at Orchardleigh her entire life. The next wedding that will take place here? Theirs, of course. This is certainly a venue with a flair for the dramatic. Chris can fly couples in for their big entrance by helicopter, or Heather can carry them by horse-drawn carriage, while there are now no fewer than five places in the grounds to say ‘I do’, including a pair of new outdoor ceremony areas. (Should you pick the 12th century, moat-surrounded chapel, proceedings will have to be lit by romantic candlelight, as there’s no electricity there.) Got lots of friends? That shouldn’t be a worry, as they can cater for up to 165 at the main house (and 300 at Elmhay Park); you can stay the night before or after the wedding in the recently renovated Orchardleigh Castle too (actually a 19th century gatehouse, complete with hot tubs and private gardens and sleeping 12, built in a mockMedieval style), but the guys are currently also renovating the Grade II* listed Palladium boathouse on the lake which, once complete, will be exclusively reserved for couples to use as a luxurious retreat. Sounds great, doesn’t it? “Partying till dawn is no problem,” Chris says, “as we don’t have any neighbours, so we’ll keep the celebrations going until the newlyweds ask us to call it a night. (I particularly liked the inflatable sumo wrestling we had on the croquet lawn recently – great fun!) With over 500 acres to choose from, the photo options are endless, but I particularly like it down by the lake, or hidden away in the arboretum.” Hire starts from £1,350, and wedding packages run from £3,750 – as ever, you’ll get the best value if you can opt for a mid-week date. www.orchardleight.net

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

WEDDINGS Venue

My own private river Priston Mill is one of Bath’s most popular wedding venues, and with good reason

Bride Jess, groom Chris, and the sunniest of days down the Mill

riston Mill is amongst Bath’s best known wedding venues, and it’s incredibly versatile too, with a pair of totally separate options on the same site: the Watermill, which can hold 50-130 people, and The Tythe Barn for 70-200. Once a working farm, these guys got into the wedding game almost 20 years ago, after successfully opening up for school trips, offering tours of The Watermill – they’ve turned each mechanism into a display – and activities in the surrounding countryside. “Guests will always remember good food, good music and a well-stocked bar,” says their Olivia Coleman, “so these are areas I’d suggest indulging in, perhaps saving a few pennies by making a lot of the decorations yourselves. Both our venues are so beautiful as they are, very little is needed.” They’ve got lovely gardens for photographs too – although, if the weather is unkind, the simple exposed brick walls here make a popular alternative backdrop – and they’re surrounded by the most beautiful countryside, if couples are feeling brave. “If they go for a climb over the stream they’ll be able to get that perfect twilight shot,” Olivia says. “We once had a bride who was a dog walker, so had two of her own dogs walk down the aisle with the ushers and bridesmaids. They had little flower crowns on, so it looked amazing.” What’s the cost? Priston Mill can start from as little as £975, depending on the time of week and year. www.pristonmill.co.uk

“Both our venues are so beautiful as they are, very little is needed” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 37

WEDDINGS

Venue

Grange days

Fancy getting your pictures taken astride an old tractor? Woolley Grange is the place

oolley Grange is an old Jacobean manor house, surrounded by 14 acres of beautiful gardens, out at Bradford on Avon. Originally a clothier’s country estate, it was converted into a top-notch hotel some 30 years ago. “We may be luxury, but we’re not at all snooty,” says their Caroline Mackay. “Being a family friendly hotel, we understand the needs of all age groups, and even have an Ofsted registered nursery on site, alongside our Elemis spa and 2AA Rosette restaurant, which serves delicious food, much of it freshly grown in the garden.” For non-exclusive use, a smaller wedding of 40 people fits the venue nicely, but if you take the entire 26-bedroom hotel that can grow considerably. The guys here pride themselves on a relaxed informality designed to sooth pre-wedding jitters, and take their time to tailor a wedding to suit each couple. The best place for pictures? A classic favourite is right outside the front of the hotel, but there’s a cool old vintage tractor – often surrounded by chickens – for more rustic shots and, if the weather is inclement, then in front of the fire in the drawing room is good. “We recently had a really intimate wedding at Woolley, where each attendee had a personal role in the ceremony,” Caroline says. “One escorted the bride, another was best man, a third played guitar, a fourth read a poem, and someone made a speech. It was obvious that the couple had chosen a small, select group of people who really added meaning to their life, so the marriage was not just about the couple but all the family and friends who supported them too. It really brought a tear to our eyes.” www.woolleygrangehotel.co.uk

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

“The guys here pride themselves on a relaxed informality designed to sooth pre-wedding jitters”

WE’VE MOVED! Find us at our new location in Keynsham

Our fleet of VW California Ocean campers provide off grid warmth & comfort during Autumn nights

info@sunkissedcampers.co.uk 01225 330106 x b a @sunkissedvwhire www.sunkissedcampers.co.uk

Bath’s ﬁnest bespoke tailoring, dressmaking and alterations service We cater for all types of tailoring including made to measure and bespoke hand made suits for both men and women to bridal alterations

Lottie is a Mercedes Benz T1 Ice Cream Van, born in Dusseldorf in 1986 and then converted in Crewe by Cummins. She has been lovingly restored, she is unique and is loved wherever she goes. Lottie is willing to come to special events in Bath with award winning luxury organic ice cream locally sourced from Marshﬁeld Farm near Bath. We have a selection of waﬄe cones, toppings and sauces. Contact us for further details and a quote for your special event.

25 Milsom Street, Bath, BA1 1DG t: 01225 920 263 info@citytailors.co.uk www.citytailors.co.uk

07596 703324  shistondavies@gmail.com hours by arrangement

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 childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 â&#x20AC;˘ 01225 477442

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

FLOATING THROUGH THE DARKNESS It’s New York in the 1970s. No more than 18 people are perched on stools in a darkened room, there by invitation or word of mouth only. They’re waiting for Robert Anton and his ‘actors’ – tiny puppets with hands the size of fingernails – to emerge from the black. One of the best-kept secrets of the New York theatre scene, the late artist Robert Anton spent his life creating theatre in miniature. His painstakingly sculpted, vividly realised actors told stories inspired by scenes Anton would spy at Verdi Square Park, close to his 44 West 70th Street apartment. Anti-heroes, bohemian monsters, fantastic creatures and the glamorous dancing skeleton of Josephine Baker populated his strange and whimsical world, and, Anton often said, would take

control of the stories themselves, surprising him during the performance. But Anton was more than just their puppeteer – he played an active role in his stories too. From one actor attempting to climb into the cave of his mouth to another seeming to fall in love with his hand, he was always much more than a mere master of the strings. Right now you have the chance to see Anton’s extraordinary collection of work on display in the UK for the first time at The Andrew Brownsword Gallery at The Edge; it’s worth the trip, for sure. The Theatre of Robert Anton is at The Andrew Brownsword Gallery, Edge Arts, University of Bath; Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm; www.edgearts.org

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Become a tree champion at Westonbirt Arboretum

WHAT’S ON 16 August – 15 September

EXHIBITIONS Until 30 August

MICK LINDBERG: SEW THE SEEDS Female figures and flowers tell a story in these remarkable textile-based works. Mick says: “The seed of this show was planted a long time ago, and has slowly germinated. I like to think that I have opened the gate to a garden of endless imagination, where time and place is of no importance, and flowers grow wild in strange places. There are no borders to this realm where the very essence of nature lives.” Mon-Sat (closed Wednesday and Sunday), 10am-6pm; free; David Simon Contemporary, Castle Cary; www.davidsimoncontemporary.com

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

Until 1 September

LISTEN Experience art through your lug holes with a full season of sonic events in and around Black Swan Arts in Frome. Feast your ears on musical exhibitions, installations, workshops and performances, as well as ‘sound walks’ – quite diﬀerent, we are assured, from regular walks – and a ‘listening hub’. Black Swan Arts, Frome; www.listensoundart.co.uk

Until 14 September

THE THEATRE OF ROBERT ANTON Robert Anton made creepy ﬁgurines that he then had star in plays he’d written for them. Inspired by the people he watched in the park near

his New York apartment, Anton told fantastical stories about the anti-heroes, monsters, fantastical creatures and witches that populated his meticulously sculpted miniature NY. (Want to know more? Then turn back to the page before this one!) Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm; free; The Edge; www.edgearts.org

Until 15 September

A TALE OF TWO CITIES Bernard Ollis’ paintings are known for their depictions of major cities, among them Bath (his birthplace) and Paris. This exhibition brings the two of them together in unconventional yet enjoyable ways. Mon-Sun, 10:30am-5pm; included in admission fee; Victoria Art Gallery, Bath; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 15 September

WAR AND RUMOURS OF WAR Drawn largely from The Hepworth Wakeﬁeld’s collection of 1940s British works, get ready to feel a sense of déjà vu at the austerity and idealism that permeated the age. Mon-Sun, 10.30am-5pm; normal admission applies; Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 1 October

BONKERS BUT BRILLIANT! We all know looking silly in the name of art is hardly a recent phenomenon, but there’s still something delightful about this exhibition showing a community of artists doing just that. The decades’ worth of archived footage, photos

what’s on

and documents on show here provide real creative inspiration. Mon-Sun, 10.30am-5pm; free with entry to the museum; The Museum of Bath at Work; www.bath-at-work.org.uk

Until 14 October

NEW VIEWS ON FAMILIAR PLACES David Ringsell paints with the hope of making the viewer see a place with fresh eyes. He combines acrylic paint, pen and pencil to create landscapes that represent the many facets of life in our city. (C’mon, we can all surely get behind that!) Various times; free; The Claremont Community Centre; www.real-images.com/ artists-background.php

Until 10 November above:

Stephen Mangan and Kara Tointon star in The Man in the White Suit, originally a 1951 Ealing Studios film with Alec Guinness left: Catch ‘Itchy’ by Ele Nash in the Combe Down Arts Trail below: Judging veg is serious business at The Wellow Flower Show

EAST ASIAN LIFE This fascinating exhibition remembers the originally utilitarian functions of many of the objects in the museum. Though now viewed as beautiful pieces of art, plenty were once simple, everyday tools. Tues-Sat 10am-7pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm; various prices; Museum of East Asian Art, next to The Circus; www.meaa.org.uk

13-18 August

A SENSE OF PLACE Eleven local artists have created an exhibition responding to the idea of ‘a sense of place’. Using a variety of mediums, each of the works demonstrates a different interpretation of the theme. 10am-6pm; free; Walcot Chapel

20 August – 1 September

TATTERSETT COLLECTIVE ART EXHIBITION Enjoy a range of work from the Tattersett Collective, a diverse group of nine artists that mostly work in oil paint and who formed at The Norfolk Painting School. These guy are all about producing great work (not just landscapes but street scenes, portraits and more) and supporting each other. Mon-Sun, 10am-5pm; 44AD Artspace; www.44ad.net

PLAYS/SHOWS 22-25 August

ARABIAN NIGHTS The Theatre Royal’s Summer Company presents an engaging look not only at the Aladdins and Sinbads of the world, but at the hope and triumph that their stories represent. Various times and prices; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

27-31 August

THE LIFE I LEAD Late actor David Tomlinson, best known as Mr Banks in Mary Poppins, was a man defined by both adventure and heartbreak – some of it public, and quite a lot of it not. This one-man show from comedian Miles Jupp sheds new light on Tomlinson, sharing both comedic and deeply sad moments from his life and career. It’s written by James Kettle, and directed by Selina Cadell. Tue-Sat 7:30pm, matinees Wed and Sat 2.30pm; prices vary; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

From 6 September

THE MAN IN THE WHITE SUIT Imagine this: that you’d invented a fabric that never gets dirty and never wears out. Well, that’s exactly what Sidney Stratton (Stephen Mangan) does in The Man in the White Suit. If you think that wouldn’t cause too many problems, you’d be wrong. Poor old Sid quickly finds his life getting very complicated, as manufacturers and trade unions come after him, terrified by what his invention might mean for their jobs. This fast-moving comedy is a new stage adaptation of the famous film, and reunites Mangan with his Jeeves and Wooster partner Sean Foley, so you know it’s going to be good. Mon-Sat 7.30pm, matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2.30pm; various prices; Theatre Royal; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

MUSIC 22 August

MA BESSIE AND HER PIGFOOT BAND Since 2015, Julia Titus has been bringing the songs of Bessie Smith and others to audiences born too late to catch ‘the Empress of the Blues’ the first time around. Backed by her Pig Foot band – guitarist Matt Foster, saxophonist Chuck Lloyd and percussionist Andy Wilkin – Ma Bessie takes us back 90 years. 8pm; £13; Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org

24 August

A THOUSAND YEARS OF BAROQUE The Oxford Bach Soloists bring us a night of music from Handel, Bach and Scarlatti – three of the biggest names from the Baroque era – directed by Tom Hammond-Davies. 7:30pm; £20/£5 concessions; St Michael’s Without; bathboxoffice.org.uk

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What’s on 14 September

THE HUMAN LEAGUE The 1980s chart-toppers will be taking to the stage at Bath Racecourse after a packed day of racing. These stalwarts of the age of lopsided hair and shop girl chic will be playing all their crowdpleasing favourites – don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes. Races 1pm-5.35pm; Human League 6-8pm approx.; general admission £35; www.bath-racecourse.co.uk/

FAMILY

Until 18 August

CARTERS STEAM FAIR The popular travelling funfair will be spending not one but two full weeks in Royal Victoria Park. With a range of vintage rides dating from the 1890s to the 1960s, there’s something for all the family to enjoy here. Entry is free, but rides and games take tokens costing 50p each. 11am-7pm; free entry/£2-3 per ride; Royal Victoria Park; www.carterssteamfair.co.uk

Until 1 September

TOGAS AND TUNICS Ever wondered how you’d look in ancient Roman attire? (You are now we’ve said it, aren’t you?) Come down to the Roman Baths on any given August weekend to discover how the Romans dressed, and perhaps try on a toga or three. 10am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-4pm; included in admission fees; Roman Baths; www.romanbaths.co.uk

Until 2 September

TREE CHAMPIONS Westonbirt Aboretum is the place to go to keep the little ’uns active and outside this summer holiday. Their Tree Champions programme sees kids get into the Arboretum absolutely free until 2 September, with the trail designed to pit families against one another to find the recording-breaking trees they have here, run as far as a seed travels and complete the hula hoop challenge. They’ve also got a whole bunch of fun workshops; find out more on the website. Mon-Fri 10.30am-4pm; Adult £10, kids go free until 2 September; www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt-thenational-arboretum

Until 8 September

LAUREN CHILD: THE ART OF ILLUSTRATION The Waterstones Children’s

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

Laureate, known for Charlie and Lola and Clarice Bean, is displaying her artwork at The Holburne. Child’s deceptively simple work has become nothing short of iconic at this point, and kids and grown ups alike will enjoy this collection of artwork from her latest books, in addition to some pieces based on reworked fairy tales and classic bedtime stories. Mon-Sun, 10am-5pm; general admission £12.50; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

Various dates throughout August

SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES The Victoria Art Gallery is another place with a range of fun activities to keep the kids occupied throughout their time off school. From creating street scenes using reflections to exploring the various bugs in the museum’s ceramics collection, there’s plenty here to get all those young creative juices flowing. Various dates and times; price included with admission; Victoria Art Gallery, Bath; www.victoriagal.org.uk

21 August

ROCK THE TOTS SUMMER PARTY An hour of music, puppets, percussion and stories – just ideal stuff for any would-be rock stars under the age of five, we reckon. 11am-12pm; £7 per child/£3 adults; Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford on Avon; www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk

OTHER

Until 30 August

LANDING ON THE MOON Can you believe it’s been 50 years since man first landed on the moon? Of course you can. It was ages ago. Regardless, we might as well celebrate this epic human achievement with some lunar-themed fun at the ace Herschel Museum of Astronomy. Weekdays 1pm-5pm, weekends 10am-5pm; free with admission to the Herschel Museum of Astronomy; www.herschelmuseum.org.uk

Until 31 August

TORCHLIT SUMMER EVENINGS This summer, the Roman Baths are once again throwing open their doors long into the evenings. Take a stroll around the torch-lit baths for a romantic evening, Roman style. Mon-Sun, 9am-10pm (last entrance 9pm); prices vary; Roman Baths; www.romanbaths.co.uk

above: Step back in time at Carters Steam Fair left: Craig King’s interpretation of ‘A Sense of Place’ below: It’s party time at Super Cider Saturday

What’s on Until 30 August

BONNETS AND BICORNS Fancy yourself a bit of a dandy? Get yourself a makeover, Georgian style, with a piece of elegant headwear. Make yourself a bonnet or bicorn (one of those Napoleon/pirate hat type things) to take home with you. Bonus points for wearing it around the city for a day. Mon-Sun, 10am-5pm; free with admission to No.1 Royal Crescent; drop-in activity in the Servants’ Hall at No.1 Royal Crescent; www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk

Weekends until 31 August

SUMMER SPIRALS The 154 step spiralling staircase at Beckford’s Tower is opening for the summer – it makes us breathless just thinking about it! The view, we’re promised, is worth the epic climb. 10.30am-5pm (last entry 4.30pm), weekends and bank holidays; free with regular admission; Beckford’s Tower; www.beckfordstower.org.uk

17 August

SUPER CIDER SATURDAY A proper day out at the races followed by a glass of cider and a performance from legendary Somerset band The Wurzels. C’mon, could it possibly get any more West Country than this? 2pm-10pm; various prices; Bath Racecourse; www.bath-racecourse.co.uk

18 August

CLASSIC CAR & MOTORCYCLE SHOW One for the petrolheads – a variety of vintage, classic and modern classic vehicles will take over the lawns at Bowood House. Featuring private exhibitors and club stands from Rollin’ Classic Cars and Wessex MG Club, amongst many others. 10am-4pm; prices vary; Bowood House and Gardens; www.bowood.org

25 August

GIANT FLEA MARKET Come and browse a wide range of vintage items, some of them very hard to find indeed, at over 250 stalls. 9:30am-4pm; £4.50 per adult; Bath and West Showground; www.bathandwestshowground.com

29 August

FORK TO FORK GARDEN TOUR Jane Moore, head gardener at the Bath Priory, offers a tour of the hotel’s summer gardens and kitchen. Get a glimpse into how the hotel’s acclaimed food is prepared, and learn some expert gardening tips before enjoying a threecourse seasonal lunch and a glass of house wine. (Don’t mind if we do.) 10:30am-2:30pm; £55; The Bath Priory; www.thebathpriory.co.uk

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

31 August

THE WELLOW FLOWER SHOW A Magic Circle certified magician, a Shetland pony display, and – of course – all those flowers, make up only a few of the entertainments on offer at the Wellow Flower Show. Donkey rides, archery, beer tent and BBQ – with locally made organic ice creams to top it all off – will send off the show’s 70th anniversary in style. 1pm-5pm; adult entry £3, children under 16 free; Wellow Playing Fields, BA2 8QA; www.bathnes.gov.uk/events

5 September

SHARED INTERESTS OF KOREA AND THE UK Catch South Korean Ambassador HE Enna Park’s forthcoming talk for the University of the Third Age in Bath, covering the history of the Republic of Korea, before providing some context and nuance to recent political developments. You know, all that stuff on the news. 9.45am coffee, 10.30am lecture begins; free for members, £2 for non-members; Pavilion, Bath; www.u3ainbath.org.uk

7-8 September

COMBE DOWN ART TRAIL Follow the trail of red paper lanterns to 15 open art venues. Local artists are throwing wide the doors of their homes and studios for you to have a nose around – and you never know what treasures you might find. (Make sure to bring cash – it’s doubtful you’ll leave empty handed.) 10am-5pm; free; Combe Down; www.cdarttrail.com

15 September

ST ALPHEGE’S FLOWER FESTIVAL Pop down to St Alphege’s – a characterful hidden gem of the city – to see this beautiful building filled with flowers bursting into bloom. This year’s theme is ‘The Titles of Mary’, and in addition to the flower show, Dr Giles Mercer will be on hand providing guided tours explaining the history of the church. 1pm; free; Church of Our Lady & St Alphege, Bath; www.saintalphege.org.uk n

above:

below:

A blast from the past: the mighty Human League Search for buried treasure at The Giant Flea Market

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