Bath Life – Issue 470

THE MAKING OF NEW OLD FRIENDS

ISSUE 470 / 20 – 31 MAY 2022 / £3

OUT OF TOWNERS

DISCOVER THE CHARMS OF SALTFORD AND KEYNSHAM

CHECK IT OUT HIDDEN GEMS IN BATH’S LUXE HOTELS

MIC DROP!

ISSUE 470 / 20 – 31 MAY 2022 / BATH TIME

THE LOWDOWN ON RUGBY AND ROYALS FROM MIKE TINDALL

FIT FOR A QUEEN

MARY BERRY’S JUBILEE RECIPE SPECIALS

CROWD PLEASERS

THE DINING DELIGHTS OF RAPHAEL

ROOM VIEW WITH A

EXPLORE A BEAUTIFUL SYDNEY PLACE HOME

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Saltford and Keynsham beautiful (page 70) BELOW: Celebrate the Jubilee Mary Berry style (page 56)

W

hat’s one of the first things you do when you get to a hotel? Unpack? Look for the room service number? Examine the mini-bar? Me, I turn on the TV and see if I can find the channel showing back-to-back Come Dine With Me. Every English hotel TV seems to have this channel that doesn’t exist at home. It’s oddly comforting and an indulgence that gives me that true holiday vibe. It’s not until I’ve seen at least one amateur cook grab £1,000 off a silver platter and chuck it in the face of the losers, that can I get on with the job of being away. Of course there’s the wonderful food, spa and swimming pool options that need exploring but taking a little time to discover more about the building you’re actually staying in can be fascinating and make a trip even more memorable. Over on page 24, we learn about the hotel built on the site of a Norman castle, the hotels that champion local artists, and how the Georgians influence the colour palette of a hotel’s walls.

Elsewhere we take a little road trip to nearby Saltford and Keynsham to uncover their indie delights (page 70); on page 52 we visit the charming and elegant Raphael restaurant; we’re celebrating the Jubilee with a little delicious help from Mary Berry (page 56) and with some locally sourced patriotic-themed goodies (page 61); and on page 92 we take a wander around our cover star of a home, which is fit for a queen – Queen Charlotte in fact. On page 12 we meet someone whose met the Queen on more than one occasion, what with her being his mother-in-law and all – we have an exclusive interview with the World Cup-winning former Bath Rugby player Mike Tindall ahead of his visit to the city for his The Good, The Bad & The Rugby podcast tour.

Hope you enjoy checking it all out!

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ABOVE: Meet the indies making

SARAH MOOLLA

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Issue 470 / 20-31 May 2022 COVER 93 Sydney Place is on the market with Savills with a guide price of £1.15m (page 92)

THE BIG INTERVIEW

66

12 MIKE TINDALL We chat with the World Cup-winning former

Bath Rugby player ahead of his visit to the city

LUXURY HOTELS

24 CHECK IT OUT! From history to horse riding – there’s a whole world to explore

THE ARTS

33 ARTS INTRO The Bath Fringe Festival kicks off this month 34 WHAT’S ON Theatre, music, comedy, and art in the city 40 NEW OLD FRIENDS The Bath Life Award-winning company are returning

with an all-new production for the first time since Covid

43 BOOKS A new generation of imaginative picture books 45 CINEMA The most advertised film in motion picture history drops at

The Little this month

FOOD&DRINK

49 FOOD & DRINK NEWS What to eat at the Bradford on Avon food festival in June 50 TAKE 5 Kaskazi Back To Nature on ethical spice imports 52 RESTAURANT International influences at Raphael 56 JUBILEE RECIPES Dishes fit for royalty by Mary Berry

70

SHOPPING

61 SHOPPING INTRO Celebrate the Jubilee the traditional way –

with a big cup of tea, of course

62 EDITOR’S CHOICE Feeling patriotic in red, white and blue

LIFESTYLE

66 GARDENS Nick Woodhouse explores Steeple Ashton’s open gardens 68 BEAUTY Our reviewer gets a new do 70 KEYNSHAM AND SALTFORD Thriving and gorgeous and on Bath’s doorstep

BUSINESS

75 BATHWORKS Local business news, views, and interviews 78 BIZ Q&A Patrick Mill on Novia’s future 81 AWARDS Q&A Café winners Sugarcane Studio

PROPERTY

87 PROPERTY LEAD Fall in love with this stylish two-bed apartment in the Empire 88 PROPERTY NEWS Updates from the market 90 PROPERTY SYMPOSIUM Creating a sustainable architectural future 92 SHOWCASE An apartment with royal heritage

24

DEPARTMENTS

9 SPOTLIGHT How to celebrate the Jubilee weekend – and beyond 11 INSTAS Tourist traps 17 FLATLINE A lack of space can’t stop Flats from shopping 19 SOCIETY Launching Holloways of Ludlow 98 BATH LIVES Meet local author Zöe Somerville

Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@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 Contributors Nic Bottomley, Colm Tan, David Flatman, Emma Ingledew, Matilda Walton and Nick Woodhouse Group commercial manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Annabel North annabel.north@ mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Dan Nichols dan.nichols@mediaclash.co.uk Business Development Executive Kyra Hardy kyra.hardy@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 / Gemma Bourne gemma.bourne@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bath Life MediaClash, Carriage Court, 22 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.

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SPOTLIGHT Platinum Jubilee

PARTY FIT FOR A QUEEN This year Her Majesty The Queen will be the first British Monarch to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee, which marks 70 years of service. She has visited the local area a number of times throughout her reign, including a visit to Bath in 1973 to commemorate 1,000 years since the first king of all England, King Edgar, was crowned in Bath Abbey. The visit included a walk between Guildhall and the Abbey, where thousands of Bathonians gathered in the streets to witness the historic occasion.

From 2 – 5 June the city will down tools once again in celebration of The Queen’s Jubilee celebrations, and here are a range of ways to get involved in Bath and beyond.

2 June Leading lights At 9.30pm when the sun sets on the first day of the Jubilee celebrations, historic buildings in Bath will glow with illuminations in celebration of The Queen.

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk

ALL IMAGES © BATH IN TIME

2 – 4 June Farm fresh Celebrate in true royal style at the Royal Bath and West Show, the agricultural event that names The Queen its patron. Jubilee-themed features include floristry classes, a special Jubilee Award for cattle, a Platinum Jubilee Grand Prix for horses and Jubilee mugs for all competitors of the Pony Club Games – and many beautiful images on display of HM The Queen’s visits to the shows over the years.

For more: www.bathandwest.com 3 June Glad rags required It’s not all picnics and classical music.

The Curfew is throwing a Jubilee party until late hosted by DJ and drag performer Remy Melee. Get dressed up in your glammest, most regal royal attire – there will be prizes for best dressed – and get ready for a night of fun including a quiz, cocktails and Jubilee-themed entertainment.

For more: www.thecurfewbath.co.uk

5 June Garden party The Jubilee is taking over Bath’s parks, with events dotting most of the major spots in the city. The biggest will take place at The Royal Crescent – The Big Jubilee Picnic is on the Sunday of the celebrations and is the perfect family day out with entertainment for the kids from Super Pirates and Drum Runners as well as free face painting and an arts and crafts tent.

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk 5 June The sound of music Head down to Parade Gardens with a picnic to enjoy live music in honour of Her Maj. Local musicians will perform at the bandstand all day, with further pop-up performances across the city on New Bond Street and Kingsmead Square.

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk 25 June Sing it loud The Jubilee isn’t just for the weekend. At the end of the month Bath Abbey will host the Abbey Choirs and Melody Makers in celebration of Her Majesty The Queen. The singers will perform Handel’s four Coronation Anthems (including Zadok the Priest), and Mozart’s joyful Coronation Mass, directed by Huw Williams, the Abbey’s director of music, and accompanied by Rejoussance on historical instruments.

For more: www.bathboxoffice.org.uk Various times Read all about it The Bath Central Library is commemorating the royal milestone with a series of special events including royally-themed story times and craft events – with the library dressed as if for a big street party.

The library is also running a Big Jubilee Read, which is celebrating 70 years of the Commonwealth with 70 books that demonstrate the diversity of our communities.

For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk

from top: Queen Elizabeth II visited Bath in 1973; her visit commemorated 1,000 years since King Edgar was crowned at Bath Abbey; HM The Queen walked from Guildhall to the Abbey; crowds of Bathonians took to the streets to mark the Queen’s historic visit to the city

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SPOTLIGHT

GUEST STARRING It’s no wonder tourists flock to these must-photograph spots of the city

@assh.shots

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@mrbenreed

@pearcetaylorphotography

@rose.tintedlens

@photoo_tom

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www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 11

THE BIG INTERVIEW

MIKE DROP Mike Tindall on his time playing for Bath Rugby, why he loves this city, and Victoria Park pitch and putt

F

Words by Colm Tan

or many of us, winning a World Cup, playing for Bath Rugby, being made an MBE and marrying a princess are the stuff of dreams and enough to make anyone a little cagey or full of themselves.

Yet Mike Tindall, who won rugby’s foremost competition in 2003, received a royal honour from the Queen in 2007, and married her granddaughter, Zara Phillips, four years later, could not be less so. He’s open, funny and if you ask a direct question, he’ll happily give you an direct answer. It’s no wonder his podcast, The Good, The Bad and The Rugby with James Haskell and Alex Payne, has been such a hit with millions of listeners.

The show debuted at No.1 in the Apple podcast charts, and now, with more than three million fans (plus 20 million more online), is one of the most popular sports podcasts in the UK. The trio are taking it on a nationwide tour and here we catch up with Mike ahead of the visit to the Bath Forum on 31 May.

You played for Bath Rugby 1997/1998 – 2003/2004. Tell us about that time.

My memories of Bath are amazing. Funnily enough, it was a club that I said I’d never join because I had this sort of mentality that I never wanted to join the best club! I always wanted to join a club and make it better. But then they offered me money, so my morals just jumped out the window as an 18-year-old and I took the cash and ran! But I think it sort of shaped who I was. We won the Heineken cup in that first year which I wasn’t involved in but it inspired me. The memories of them down in Bordeaux against Brive, the stories that the boys came back with, the nights out we had and the bonding that went on off the back of that victory…

It sounds like a very special time.

It was, and it sort of set me up and taught me how to be a better rugby player and how to understand the game and be able to impact a game. The fans and the atmosphere around the Rec are very, very special. I’ve got memories that will last me a lifetime.

What about the city itself, I’ve heard you used to love a bit of mini-golf?

The old Vicky Park pitch and putt was always a favourite of ours. Ben Sturnham had a hole-in-one there, basically the worst golfer that I’ve ever seen on the planet but somehow he’s managed to have a hole-in-one and I haven’t!

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

“There’s always something to do in Bath that’s sociable whether it’s watching the cricket or the Bath Boules tournament”

Mike has still got a flat in Bath that he thinks he’ll always keep; opposite page: James Haskell, Alex Payne and Mike are taking their The Good The Bad & The Rugby podcast on tour

THE BIG INTERVIEW It’s beautiful around here isn’t it?

It is – I used to love walking through the Royal Crescent, Queen Square, that whole area, and it’s such a friendly place as well. There’s always something to do that’s sociable that generally involves either a beer or a Pimm’s, whether it’s watching the cricket or the Bath Boules tournament – that was always a yearly favourite. It’s such a fun city and then you throw in all the students and young people who sort of lift the energy there is. On Saturday during the season, the Rec’s about to explode.

It’s so busy, so energetic, so lively whether it be in the Boater pub, the cafés around Pulteney Weir, or at 3 in the morning in a kebab house! Everyone used to love a 3am Marmaris! It’s such a good city.

What about your social life in Bath, where did you go out?

It was Po Na Na back in the day was the place to be.

Depending on what night you went out it was Cadillacs as well. It was such a social town with a lot of students there. I’m not going say that rugby was still amateur back then, even though it was supposed to be professional, but it was quite amateur. When I was in the second team we played on Wednesday nights, so they became quite an important night as well.

I’ve been told you used to go to Blue Rooms with Zara back in the day. Any memories from that?

Mike and Zara Phillips, who married in 2011, enjoyed their nights out in Bath;

BELOW: Mike played centre for Bath Rugby 1997/1998 – 2003/2004

The Blue Rooms was the first sort of classy establishment; it was more of a member’s bar but we ended up having a few VERY good nights out there. In Bath you just get to know everyone so well, it’s so small that every night is good because you’ll bump into someone that you know and because they’re so passionate about rugby as well. It was quite nice to be a rugby player in that city.

Nowadays do your family get much of a chance to come back to Bath?

I’ve still got my flat in Bath, I’m not sure whether I’ll ever get rid of it.

I’ve still got so many friends from around the area, and quite a lot have just moved outside Bath to Bradford on Avon or wherever, so I do get down every now and again. I did have my brother’s stag do down there at Second Bridge but that was quite a while ago now. Some people have had their 40ths and 50ths down there, we’re getting to that age, but I don’t get down there enough.

You mentioned a few friends still living around the area, do you get a chance to drop in on any of your old teammates? David Flatman for example?

Yes, I spoke to Flats yesterday but I haven’t been down to see his new place. One of my best friends lives in Bradford on Avon who I’ve been down to see and obviously Grewy (Danny Grewcock) has now moved, he was down south of Bath and he’s now over in Bristol. So yeah, there’s people still around the area that I chat to but don’t necessarily always get down to see. It’s something I always talk about doing more of but that’s easier said than done in life.

You’re headed this way on 31 May for The Good, The Bad & The Rugby podcast tour.

How much are you looking forward to it?

Massively but it’s a bit nerve-racking at the same time as it’s something that we haven’t done before. Hask’s obviously been out on his little one-man tour and now thinks he’s the perfect comedian so we’ll put a lot of pressure on him!

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

But I think as long as we can keep the vibe of the podcast in terms of making it insightful and funny, and we’ve got guests coming in and we’ll make it about them. Every night’s going be a little bit different.

Obviously this tour is about the podcast but are you anticipating difficult questions about Zara’s family?

If someone decides to try to ask questions about that side of the family, I’ll just get Hask to quietly escort them out! But no, I’m sure things will come up, things will be talked about, but we’re pretty much an open book on the pod. That’s what we’ve always said, we don’t really put handcuffs on anything. That’s part of the appeal – normalising the strains and stresses of it all, from playing rugby to life after it. Rugby is an intense sport that has massive highs but also massive lows, whether that be leaving the game at the end of it or having to find a real-world job moving on, you’ve got to embrace those sides of it. Everything’s going to be made around having a bit of fun. So we’ll see where it goes.

What do you think the difference is going to be in front of live audiences?

We’re just working on ways of audience participation and making sure they have good fun and get involved at the same time. We’ve done a few corporate-ty type ones and we do the live podcast every now and again. I think one of the biggest we did was in Cardiff, which was 1,200 people and that went really well.

So hopefully we can replicate that on multiple evenings, and we just want people, after the last two years, to walk into a venue and walk away with a smile on their face. That’s our goal. ■ Mike Tindall, James Haskell, and Alex Payne will be bringing the tour of their podcast The Good, The Bad & The Rugby to Bath Forum on 31 May. For more: www.goodbadrugby.com / www.bathforum.co.uk

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Red House Farm, Broughton Gifford A collection of six beautifully designed homes ranging from two to four bedrooms, including five bungalows and one detached house.

01225 791155 ashford-homes.co.uk

FLAT LINE DAVID FLATMAN © BET T Y BHANDARI BR AND PHOTOGR APHY; W W W.BET T YBHANDARIBR ANDPHOTOGR APHY.COM

“I’ve now been banned from getting new televisions for the sitting room and snug”

Hey big spender Flats knows he needs to get a handle on his overspending, but instead he’s bought some lovely new handles

A

t the time of typing, we are dangerously close to having a new kitchen in our house. I describe our closeness as dangerous as it would be dangerous to think ourselves too close.

We have now had two dinner parties at home which were indeed designed to celebrate our new kitchen, but which took place in the basement in which we have been living for the last four months.

This isn’t because this builder or that joiner has let us down or miscalculated horribly, it’s because it just takes that long. The old kitchen needed pulling out (in fairness that took about an hour), and the space needed prepping.

Being a Georgian house every wall and floor is, as my builder put it, on the piss, so chippies and plasterers and sparks and plumbers and

flooring specialists have all had to do their respective bits to ensure the room was ready to accommodate our plans.

Only then, you see, can the lovely kitchen designer (Inc Studio) measure the exact dimensions of the room. And only then, you also see, can he start building cabinets to fit perfectly. It just takes time…

And the basement is nice! We’d planned to ‘give it a lick of paint’ and get it rented out (has its own entrance, see) soon after moving in, but that lick of paint became a new kitchen, a new bathroom, new carpets, full redecoration and lots of plumbing and electrical work. Oh, and we didn’t use our builder for this bit as it was all so easy. Except that, in an attempt to be as similar as possible to all those muppets on home-building TV shows who ignore the advice of the experts and manage everything themselves to save some cash, we missed loads

of things and did them in the wrong order so we’re going to have to send him down there once we’re back upstairs, spending more than the sum we ‘saved’ in the first place.

Good stuff!

Said basement is nice enough, but it is also small. And as much as I know – and am repeatedly reminded by my acutely humble and patient girlfriend – that we are lucky to have the option and lucky not to have to move out and rent another whole house, I’m properly over it now. When there are five of us and a dog down there, it’s cramped.

I now wonder if I’ll ever go down there again once the builder leaves, having corrected our mistakes. It’s a bit like Lanzarote down there: you can have a really good time but you wouldn’t rush back.

I feel like an Old English Mastiff who’s forced to sleep in a Labrador’s kennel. The basement has all I need, but just not enough of it.

What I’m doing to beat these feelings of frustration is pretend the new kitchen is ready.

I’m basically buying things and storing them in the basement which, counter-productively, is reducing further the space we have to walk and sit. This week’s big delivery was from Robert Welch. Not a plug – just a tale of selfcontrol falling away and a love of nice pans and glasses and cutlery taking over. Such was my aggression at their virtual till, I’ve now been banned from getting new televisions for the sitting room and snug. Handily – and somewhat nobly – said girlfriend hates spending money on ‘objects’, and her dismay at my love of doing just that won’t be diluted much when she sees what’s coming from Cox & Cox next week. Oh, and I decided in the middle of the night that really every door knob in the house ought to match, so went onto the Corston Architectural website and actioned that excellent plan. But I still really want those new TV’s.

She’ll come around; it’ll just take time.

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

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• Roof Replacement • Detailed Lead Work • Repairs • Flat roofing • UPVC Fascias and soffits

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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 Alyssa Ray and Eddie Twitchett

Julia Keyte and Joe Ravenhill

Daniel Lofters, Noah McClelland-Lofters and Kerry McClelland

Ian Cameron, Karen Wallis-Smith and Simon Wallis-Smith

THE INSIDE STORY

Molly Cropper and Will Moss

Holloways of Ludlow recently launched its new Milsom Street showroom with a party. The celebration of its first major store outside of London and biggest to date was also a launch for the new 2022 collections from leading interior design brands like Hay, Northern and Carl Hansen & Søn, and featured a special showcase of contemporary works by Danish artist Carsten Beck – his first in the UK. Over 100 guests visited the shop to browse its apartment-like environment with a backdrop of live music, and plenty of sparkling wine, gin cocktails and canapés to snack on.

Laura Katchburian, Michelle Alger and Cat Olley Laura Howard and George Pickup

Photos by Jessie Hudson-Myers at Soul Media; www.soul-media.co.uk

Wil Ray and Sara Horsfall

Ove Rogne, Mark Holloway and Daniel Belert

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SOCIETY

Philippa Johnston, Kathryn Aveyard and Kate Jaegar

Kathleen Graham, David Graham and Tamara Downes Will Hamilton-Davies

Carlene Clarke and Alan Clarke

Thomas Hazleton and Sophie Keogh

SUPPORT NETWORK

Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) held an evening event on 6 April for supporters at Topping & Company Booksellers. Sponsored by digital asset tracking, management and mobility specialists MiTEQ , the night was an opportunity for the CHSW team to share with supporters old and new how they have adapted their service throughout the pandemic. Paul Courtney, director of fundraising introduced the proceedings, Sarah Turnbull of the Sibling Care Team shared how storytelling helps her support siblings of poorly children and young people, and local children’s author Will Hamilton-Davies read from his book, The Shrew with the Flu and discussed his work with some of CHSW’s bereaved families.

Sheila Sparrow and Pauline Sparrow

Photos by Marcus Ahmad; www.marcusahmad.com

Tim Marshall and Miles Lloyd

Mark Gilkes, Will Hamilton-Davies and Paul Courtney 20 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

John Haynes and Vivien Simpson

CHECK IN AND CHECK THIS OUT!

Our local hotels have even more to offer than ‘just’ gorgeous five-star luxury

By Sarah Moolla

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

LUXURY HOTELS

A

bit like fly and flop, it can be tempting to simply drive and downtime when you arrive at a luxe and lovely hotel. But you can be missing out on discovering a whole world of art, beautiful gardens, the history of the place, bespoke cocktails, activities, and even events and parties. Here we explore some of our local staycation gems and learn what else they have to offer

The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa, 16 Royal Crescent, Bath; www.royalcrescent.co.uk

The Royal Crescent dates back over 250 years, and has 45 rooms and suites, an acre of hidden gardens, an award-winning on-site spa that features a 12-metre relaxation pool, a steam room, a Himalayan salt sauna, a vitality pool and a gym, and there’s the soon-to-be refurbished restaurant headed up by Martin Blake and offering all-day bar and garden menu, an evening tasting menu, and an afternoon tea menu.

Check it out: Elizabeth Montagu, founder of the Blue Stocking Society, once lived at 16 Royal Crescent and the bar is named after her.

Here you can order a Queen of the Blues cocktail created in homage to her, or ask the team for your own specially customised cocktail. You can sip this whilst you discover the art and sculpture sequestered around the hotel and grounds. The current exhibition is that of the Ukrainian artist Alina Maksimenko who has had to flee her homeland because of the war.

The hotel is also planning its own Jubilee ticketed event celebrations on Thursday 2 June with a buffet-style afternoon tea, live music, lawn games, and a magician – all set in their beautiful secluded gardens. And if it rains? They’ll simply bring the monarchy-based merriment inside.

Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, Colerne, Chippenham, Wiltshire; www.lucknampark.co.uk

The five-star country house hotel is a Palladian mansion dating from 1720 and now has 43 luxurious bedrooms including 13 suites and six country cottages all individually designed. It is set in 500 acres of listed parkland, which offers the opportunity for woodland walks in the arboretum, and beautiful gardens dotted with sculpture.

Check it out: Along with the Michelin-starred Restaurant Hywel Jones and The Brasserie which offers all day dining, Lucknam is huge on wellness. There’s an award-winning spa with 20 metre indoor swimming pool, indoor and outdoor hydrotherapy pool, eight state-ofthe-art treatment rooms, a manicure/pedicure room, post treatment relaxation, thermal cabins featuring Japanese salt, amethyst room,

“Elizabeth Montagu, founder of the Blue Stocking Society, once lived at 16 Royal Crescent”

opposite: Lucknam Park offers equestrian experiences; above: The Royal

Crescent Hotel and Spa’s bar and champagne lounge is named after Elizabeth Montagu, founder of the Blue Stocking Society

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LUXURY HOTELS

ABOVE: The exhibitions in Abbey Hotel Bath’s ArtBar are curated by local artist Emma Taylor; RIGHT: The Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel gardens were first landscaped in 1836

aromatic steam and sauna, and a social lounge with mixology bar.

Look out for two fitness suites with the latest state-of-the-art equipment and TV entertainment, an outdoor gym with range of equipment, a five-a-side football pitch, two all-weather floodlit tennis courts, and a studio for yoga and Pilates.

Lucknam Park also has its own equestrian centre with 35 horses of all sizes and capabilities so suitable for all aged guests regardless of riding ability. There’s even an Equine Connect experience which helps you ‘connect’ with your horse through observing their body language and using herd instincts. This has been proven to help alleviate stress and anxiety and is used for establishing leadership skills based on mutual respect, trust, openness and understanding, as well as improving general well-being.

Abbey Hotel Bath, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, 1-3 North Parade, Bath; www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

Abbey Hotel Bath is a boutique 4-star hotel, with 65 recently refurbished bedrooms situated very near Pulteney Weir on North Parade. It is also home to the Abbey Hotel Kitchen; a stylish cocktail bar ArtBar; and a voluted event space, The Escape. The bedrooms have been recently refurbished Check it out: There’s going to be month-long Jubilee Afternoon Tea celebration throughout June, showcasing the ‘Best of British’ sweet and savoury treats, all served alongside Her Majesty’s favourite tipple, a gin and Dubonnet cocktail. Enjoy this in the ArtBar, which is curated by local artist Emma Taylor. All artwork is for sale and benefits from its own private view evening where local media, residents and guests are invited to browse the art and meet the artist. The exhibitions don’t only support local artists but also local charities – in the last two years alone funds have been raised for RUH Forever Friends Appeal, Bath Rugby Foundation, Bath Mind and the current exhibition is operating in conjunction with Bath based photographer, Sam Gillespie to fundraise for two charities who are providing aid for war torn Ukraine.

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

Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel, Sydney Road, Bath; www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

The building in Greek revival style, believed to be the work of John Pinch the Younger, was completed in 1836. Large sums of money were spent on landscaping the seven acres of gardens with exotic trees and shrubs, an elaborate grotto, extensive conservatories and hot houses.

The luxurious 5-star accommodation currently has 131 bedrooms and suites, an indoor pool, an outdoor hydrotherapy pool, an awardwinning spa and is one of the first hotel groups in the UK to offer spa treatments to people living with and beyond cancer.

Check it out: There’s a glorious and eclectic history to this city centre hotel including in 1939, at 48 hours notice, the hotel was requisitioned by the Admiralty who used the building for planning and administration purposes throughout the war. Winston Churchill, the wartime Prime Minister, visited for high level discussions.

In 1950 it was sold to the South West Regional Hospital Board, and became The Spa Nurses’ Home for the staff of the two local hospitals.

The nurses lived in considerable luxury as the fixtures and fittings of the former hotel were included in the sale but high-running costs forced it to sell. The building you see now cost £22 million to renovate and opened to its first guests in January 1990.

“Historically the site of Manor House is a Norman castle settlement which hosted a number of Lords”

The Manor House’s gorgeous grounds and Italian gardens

“Emma’s Bar in DoubleTree

by Hilton Bath is named after the Jane Austen novel”

LUXURY HOTELS The Manor House, West Street, Castle Combe; www.exclusive.co.uk

The Manor House is a 14th century luxury hotel and golf club in Wiltshire, and part of the Exclusive Collection – the UK’s first hotel group to achieve B Corp status. The hotel has characterful rooms and suites in both the main house and mews cottages, each individually designed and furnished for a luxurious and cosy night’s sleep in the country. Along with a tennis court, there’s the championship golf course, as well as Michelin-starred restaurant and you can kick back in their cosy gastropub located in the village, The Castle Inn. Check it out: Situated in the Cotswolds village of Castle Combe, named the prettiest village in the UK last year, energising and beautiful walks are high on the list of must-do – the hotel will supply you with walking maps. Also within the grounds the Bybrook river meanders through and there are Italian gardens rising beside the main house.

Historically the land is the site of a Norman castle settlement which hosted a number of Lords, the most famous of whom was Sir John Oldcastle, the figure Shakespeare based his character of Sir John Falstaff upon in his play Henry IV in the late 16th century. It was listed as a Grade II building in 1960, and the village itself has also played host to many Hollywood blockbusters including War Horse, Stardust and Dr Dolittle.

The Bird, Bath, 18-19 Pulteney Road, Bath; www.thebirdbath.co.uk

Purchased by Ian and Christa Taylor in March 2018, The Bird, Bath is a dazzling 29-bedroom boutique hotel in the heart of Bath, with stunning views of the Abbey and is around the corner from Bath Rugby.

Known for its distinctive sense of style, bold designs and statement artwork, the hotel invokes a uniquely creative and lively atmosphere.

Check it out: The hotel is scattered with unusual and eclectic pieces of art and sculptures starting with the bird cages in the reception area.

The restaurant, Plate encapsulates a taste of Bath with authentic British dishes celebrating fresh, seasonal produce, and offers all-day dining. The ever-changing menus feature the finest ingredients from farmers and fishermen, hand-picked to create spectacular, playful dishes ideal for sharing and socialising over. Plate’s gregarious and relaxed atmosphere provides a great backdrop for the serious business of eating, and the signature bold designs and artworks make perfect conversation pieces. Plate also spills outside to the terrace into the cosy lodge and domes, served up with cracking views over the city.

DoubleTree by Hilton Bath, Walcot Street, Bath; www.hilton.com / www.emmasbarandrestaurantbath.co.uk

The hotel, which overlooks the back of beautiful Pulteney Bridge, was built in 1973 and underwent a full 10-million-pound refurbishment in 2020.

Check it out: The hotel is pet friendly and offers special amenities for guests’ four-legged family members including Marshfield doggy ice-cream, which they can enjoy in the relaunched Emma’s Café, Bar & Restaurant (named after the novel Emma by the famous one-time Bath resident Jane Austen), the outdoor terrace, or the beautiful indoor Secret Garden. The hotel also champions local artists and uses their art to adorn the spaces.

The Bird, Bath restaurant Plate offers both indoor and outdoor dining options; opposite: DoubleTree by Hilton Bath underwent a £10 million refurbishment in 2020; top: the décor at No. 15 is inspired by the powdered faces of Georgians

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 29

LUXURY HOTELS

“The history of Whatley Manor can be traced to the First World War” above: Take time to explore Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa’s 26 gardens; right: Timbrell’s was originally built in the 18th century

No.15 by GuestHouse, Bath, 15 Great Pulteney Street, Bath; www.guesthousehotels.co.uk

The Georgian former-townhouses have been a hotel for over 100 years but operating as No.15 by GuestHouse since March 2021. It has 36 bedrooms including eight in the Coach House situated behind the main house. All bedrooms boast a Dyson hair dryer, a Roberts DAB radio, Chromecast and a record player, with an extensive vinyl record library to browse, and the spa has six treatment rooms. They have pantries in the main building and Coach House, stocked with ice cream, freshly baked treats, snacks, fruit, milk and soft drinks.

Check it out: For guests arriving by train, they can arrange to be met at the station, and for the hotel’s lovely pink cargo bike to whisk away the luggage back to the hotel.

No. 15 regularly hosts calligraphy workshops, wine tastings, acoustic sessions in The Bar, wellness sessions and have many other activities with local creatives and producers in the pipeline. Creativity is a huge factor at this hotel with the works of local artists on display everywhere.

Much of the décor has been influenced by the city such as the chalky and dusty colour schemes inspired by the powdered faces of Georgians, and if you look closely at the key-holding dollhouse on reception, it is in keeping with Georgian architecture. And don’t forget to look up at the chandelier of lost earrings, put together after an appeal saw thousands of single earrings sent to the hotel.

Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa, Easton Grey, Malmesbury; www.whatleymanor.com

The luxury hotel with 23 bedrooms is set in 12 acres of beautiful English country gardens. Originally built in the 1920s as a hunting lodge, Whatley Manor now offers a choice of dining experiences including a Michelin-starred restaurant and a brasserie, a pool area with outside hydrotherapy pool and a spa offering a wide range of luxurious and holistic treatments. It also has its own cinema with Sunday cinema screenings and Jazz Sunday lunches.

Check it out: The history of Whatley Manor starts during the First World War, when the hall at Twatley became a packing station for boxes of leggings, galoshes and Red-Cross parcels destined for the Front. In 1925 a Canadian bought the estate for hunting and extended

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

it with a west wing and an ornamental garden and small park. In 1961 it was renamed Whatley and in 2000 it was bought by Marco and Alix Landolt. They spent three years restoring the Grade II buildings and transformed the surrounding 12 acres of land into 26 distinctive gardens, many of them based on the original 1920s plans.

Timbrell’s Yard, 49 St Margaret’s Street, Bradford on Avon; www.timbrellsyard.com

The main building is 18th century and was originally the home of Mr Charles Timbrell who owned the dye works next door. Now a relaxed boutique hotel, it has 17 gorgeous bedrooms ranging from contemporary mezzanine loft suites to rooms in the older wing with beams, all clad in vintage linen and freestanding cast-iron baths.

Many of the rooms have views of the river with its 13th century bridge, and the lovely honey stone buildings of Bradford on Avon beyond. Outside there is a large riverside terrace with woodburner, blankets and pretty lighting.

Check it out: A great double-height restaurant serves excellent locally focused food from executive chef Tom Blake, and the inventive menu with a great range of vegan offerings, which is all day, every day, and the ‘dine anywhere’ ethos makes it popular with families. Visiting pooches are also welcome to stay the night with their humans, and receive their own goody bag. n

BATH SPA HOTEL

Unwind in complete luxury and enjoy beautifully landscaped gardens, a fabulous spa and outstanding food. It's the ultimate destination for relaxation in a peaceful corner of timeless, glorious Bath.

Sydney Road, Bath BA2 6NS | 0344 879 9106 | www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/bath

Escape to the Cotswolds this Summer Enjoy a one-night break including a relaxing dinner in Grey’s Brasserie and full use of Aquarias Spa from £499.

Book online whatleymanor.com or call reservations on 01666 822 888

Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa Easton Grey Malmesbury SN16 0RB whatleymanor.com

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

Xxxxxxx

POOLING IDEAS

The Bath Fringe Festival starts on 27 May, bringing with it 17 glorious days of cabaret, comedy, exhibitions, films, plays, poetry, street theatre, dance, bands, walks, and workshops at venues all over the city including Komedia, The Mission Theatre, Chapel Arts Centre, Widcombe Social Club, Rondo Theatre, and Burdall’s Yard.

The creation of the poster artwork for the event’s 30th anniversary, seen here, is

by Megan Napper. It was the winning design in an annual competition run by the Fringe with Bath Spa University Art & Design students.

For more: www.bathfringe.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 33

On Repetition is the new show by Lucinda Burgess, which can be viewed at Frome’s Black Swan Arts from 4 June – 3 July

WHAT’S ON 20 May – 17 June

EXHIBITIONS

into bronze for Strong Man. www.beauxartsbath.co.uk

ELAINE PAMPHILON The artist who lives in Cambridge and Cornwall follows in the St Ives tradition of naive British painting with a beautiful selection of still life paintings and landscapes.

Adam Gallery; www.adamgallery.com

Until 5 June

Until 28 May

Until 31 May

HOPE AND HUMANITY IN THE COMMONWEALTH EXHIBITION Local artists including June Bianchi, Paul Thomas, and Rita Lazaro were asked to respond to the theme of ‘hope and humanity’ for this RUH exhibition. www.artatruh.org

Until 3 June

ANNA GILLESPIE On display at Beaux Arts Bath are two new sculptures, both of which are the artist’s eldest son, and both use the acorn as their source material, literally in the case of Quercus, then moulded and cast

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

ALINA MAKSIMENKO A solo exhibition of paintings at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

by Ukrainian artist Alina, who as a result of the war has been displaced and has had to leave everything behind in her hometown Kyiv. This exhibition and sale of her work is in support of helping Alina to re-establish herself. www.axlearts.com

Until 3 July

DRESS TO REDRESS An exhibition of the work of contemporary Anishinabe artist and visual anthropologist Dr Celeste Pedri-Spade comes to Europe for the first time. The American Museum & Gardens; www.americanmuseum.org

Until 2 July

BATH SOCIETY OF ARTISTS 117TH ANNUAL EXHIBITION This exhibition showcases the best of the region’s artistic talent and is

a must for art lovers and collectors alike, with all works for sale. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 25 July

SHADES OF GREEN In this RUH exhibition curated by Sandra Higgins, specially invited artists, intentionally diverse in their practices, were each asked to respond to the same landscape view of Englishcombe. www.artatruh.org

27 May – 18 September

LOVE LIFE: DAVID HOCKNEY DRAWINGS 1963-1977 With more than 40 of David Hockney’s drawings on loan from private collections, the new Love Life exhibition is a wonderful way to enjoy the artist’s incredible talent.

Works on display includes Ossie Wearing a Fairisle Sweater, and Celia in Black, drawn in Marrakesh in 1971.

Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

28 May – 4 September HENRY MOORE: SHARING FORM

Hauser & Wirth Somerset presents a major comprehensive exhibition of works by Henry Moore, curated

by Hannah Higham of the Henry Moore Foundation in collaboration with the artist’s daughter, Mary Moore. www.hauserwirth.com

4 June – 3 July

ON REPETITION This new show at Black Swan Arts by artist Lucinda Burgess incorporates works in steel, charred wood and glass, as well as more sculptural works using Indian Khadi paper. www.blackswanarts.org.uk

12 June

BATH CONTEMPORARY ART FAIR Since its creation last year, the Bath Life Award-winning BCAF has exhibited over 400 artists across a range of fine art, photography, sculpture, and textiles. Artists taking part in the eclectic exhibition in Green Park Station include Charles Minty, Emma Lacon and Kat Parkin. www.bcaf.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

Marc, the editor, works with Babe, his assistant, and George, his longsuffering intern. While Marc and Babe publish nonsensical articles on people’s fiascos, George is fed poisoned crumbs that make him act like a chicken for Marc’s amusement.

Rondo Theatre; www.rondotheatre.co.uk ABOVE: Bath Society Of Artists 117th Annual Exhibition is at the Victoria Art Gallery until 2 July; RIGHT: The new RUH exhibition depicts artists’ responses to the same landscape view of Englishcombe; LEFT: Currently on display at Beaux Arts Bath are two new sculptures by Anna Gillespie

THEATRE / CINEMA

Until 4 June

THE DANCE OF DEATH Alice and Edgar’s lonely relationship is sustained by taunts and recriminations and when a newcomer arrives their insular lives threaten to spin out of control even further. Stars Lindsay Duncan, Hilton McRae and Emily Bruni.

Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

31 May

LA BOHÈME The English Touring Opera present Puccini’s La bohème. Four struggling bohemians take in a young woman called Mimì on a freezing cold festive night. Love blossoms between Mimì and Rodolfo, but soon the harsh realities of their poverty begin to bite. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

8 June

FAILURE STUDIES

9 – 25 June

MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS The celebrated detective Hercule Poirot boards the legendary Orient Express, enjoying the prospect of a luxurious rail journey from Istanbul to Calais in the dead of winter. Dead being the operative word… Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

11 June

MUCH ADO ABOUT MURDER Bring your picnic and your detective skills to the beautiful gardens of the American Museum. In this original murder mystery by open-air theatre company Heartbreak Productions, five suspects will be under the spotlight and the cast will look to the audience to help solve the crime. www.americanmuseum.org

CHILDREN 31 May – 4 June

HANDA’S SURPRISE Handa travels to the next village with seven different fruits as a surprise gift for her friend Akeyo, but seven different animals have seven very different ideas. A blend of physical performance, puppetry, live music and song combine to create an intimate, magical production with fun audience participation.

The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

MUSIC 9 June

CHASE & STATUS The electronic music duo composed of Saul Milton (Chase) and Will Kennard (Status), known for their collaboration including the huge dance anthem All Goes Wrong with Tom Grennan, celebrate the release of their bold and invigorating sixth album What Came Before. Komedia Bath. www.komedia.co.uk

10 June

THE BARRICADE BOYS The Bring Him Home Tour will feature music from some of the bestloved shows from the West End and Broadway stage, including Phantom of The Opera, Miss Saigon, Jersey Boys and Les Misérables, as well as hits from some of pop and rock music’s all-time great artists such as Queen, Elton John, and The Beatles.

Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

COMEDY Every Sunday

DRAG KARAOKE AT MANDALYNS Most days of the week the welcoming and upbeat LGBTQIA+ Mandalyns bar has always got something upbeat, fun, and groovy happening, and Sunday nights are no exception. Their drag karaoke nights are in fact so darn good, Sunday is the new Saturday. www.facebook.com/mandalynsbath

5 June

THE SINGING PSYCHIC GAME SHOW & SEVEN APRONS OF WOMAN – DOUBLE BILL

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

WHAT’S ON

Edinburgh and Adelaide Fringe sell-out the Singing Psychic comes to Komedia to demonstrate her spookily accurate (if bonkers) audience readings and introduce some 1970s team games including psychic Jenga. Seven Aprons of Woman is a comedic take on the trials, tribulations and tempers of women as they examine their apron strings and those hanging on to them. Komedia Bath. www.komedia.co.uk

FESTIVALS 26 – 29 May

SHINDIG The seventh edition of Shindig returns to a new location, the 16th century Dillington House with old school festival circuit royalty and rising stars performing across Shindig’s seven stages. Big names include New York’s Grammywinning hip hop trio De La Soul and pioneering jazz funker Roy Ayers, alongside drum and bass up-andcomers, Zero & Budden, and floor fillers The Kitten Club among many others. www.shindigfestival.co.uk

27 May – 12 June

BATH FRINGE FESTIVAL The Bath Fringe is a festival of all the arts, with few rules as to what should be in or out – it’s what people want to do, and what venues in Bath they want to put on. Look out for Ma Bessie and Her Pig Foot Band on 27 May at Chapel Arts Centre, performances of The Many Lives of Nellie Bly at the Mission Theatre; and local bands performing in Parade Garden over the three weeks. More over on page 34. www.bathfringe.co.uk

27 May – 12 June

FRINGE ARTS BATH Not to be confused with the above, FaB puts art in unusual places in unexpected ways all over Bath and is back with 17 FaB days of free exhibitions and performances, and events. www.fringeartsbath.co.uk

2 – 4 June

ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOW After two years away, the Royal Bath & West Show is finally back with an extra special event celebrating the Platinum Jubilee year of its patron, HM The Queen. Alongside the Jubilee celebrations, you’ll find old favourites like the Paul Hannam Stunt Show and Pawsability Dog Agility Display, making a welcome return. www.bathandwest.com

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

ABOVE: Hands up if you love Pub in the Park coming to Bath’s Victoria Park 17 – 19 June; RIGHT: From 28 May, Hauser & Wirth Somerset is presenting an exhibition of the work of Henry Moore

2 – 5 June

VINTAGE NOSTALGIA FESTIVAL Head to Stockton Park for a funfilled weekend of live music, dance, vintage and antique shopping, classic cars, automobilia, theatre and children’s entertainment. www.vintagenostalgiafestival.co.uk

9 – 12 June

FOREST LIVE AT WESTONBIRT Forest Live promises unmissable live music in the breath-taking and beautiful location of Westonbirt Arboretum. This year performing amidst the trees are Rag’n’Bone Man, Keane, Madness, and Texas fronted by Sharleen Spiteri. www.forestryengland.uk

11 – 12 June

BRADFORD ON AVON FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL Peruse the artisan and street food markets where lip-smacking choices include Somerset Charcuterie, Godminster Cheese, or Purbeck Ice Cream through to Scout and Sage Distillery. Flip to page 49 for more on the festival. www.scrumptiousfoodfestivals.co.uk

17 – 19 June

PUB IN THE PARK We can’t get enough of Tom Kerridge’s foodie music extravaganza in Victoria Park hosted by James Martin, The Hairy Bikers, Andi Oliver, and others. Alongside foodie pop-ups from some of the country’s best

WHAT’S ON

CULTURE CLUB …with Dr Ben Garrod

Dr Ben Garrod is Professor of Evolutionary Biology at the University of East Anglia, an award-winning BBC science broadcaster, and an author. His hit interactive, fun and informative family show So You Think You Know About Dinosaurs comes to Komedia Bath on 29 May

See Texas, fronted by Sharleen Spiteri, on 9 June as part of the Forest Live At Westonbirt line up

OTHER

Starts 22 May

F1 LIVE SCREENING EVENTS AT FIVE ZEROS Follow the action of the 2022 Formula 1 season at Five Zeros’ screenings of selected rounds. Each event will be shown on a 7m x 3m display screen within the Supercar Barn and includes themed food and drink experiences. Tickets start from £50 per person or £450 for a table of 10. First screening is the Spain Formula 1 Grand Prix, followed by Monaco 29 May, Great Britain 3 July, Belgium 28 August, Italy 11 September, Singapore 2 October, and Abu Dhabi 20 November. www.fivezeros.co.uk

29 May

STEEPLE ASHTON OPEN GARDENS There are 16 gardens on display in Trowbridge, from grand

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

manor house to small cottage.

All proceeds go to the Steeple Ashton Preservation Trust to help preserve the village church. General admission is £8. Turn to page 66 for more. www.ticketsource.co.uk

31 May

THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE RUGBY The nationwide tour is the live version of the podcast with Bath Rugby and England legend Mike Tindall, fellow England star James Haskell, and former Sky Sports’ rugby presenter Alex Payne in which the trio share tales from on and off the rugby pitch.

Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

For more: www.komedia.co.uk Dr Ben Garrod is coming to Bath on 29 May to talk dinosaurs

COMING UP 30 June

ENTRECONF The region’s leading conference for entrepreneurs and partners is back. www.entreconf.com

22 – 24 July

BATH BOULES The much-loved Bath Boules tournament is back in Queen Square raising money and raising ‘oh la la’ spirits. www.bathboules.com n

© DARREN WILLIAMS

eateries and chef demos, there’s a stellar music line-up the likes of Supergrass, Natalie Imbruglia, The Sugar Hill Gang ft. Grand Master Mellie Mel, and Norman Jay. www.pubintheparkuk.com

A painting that means something to me Every painting means something to me … it’s art, that’s what art does. But if you’re going to make me pick one, then it would be one of the iconic animal paintings from the Lascaux Cave, a network of caves near Montignac, in southwestern France. They date to around 17,000 years ago and depict dozens of different species, in haunting detail.

My lockdown boxset I finally got round to watching Peaky Blinders, and it’s hard to describe just how good it is without the use of at least 12 consecutive expletives.

Best TV show ever…

The Wire. I know it’s often said, but this series was utterly groundbreaking, and besides that, was addictive and takes the viewer on one hell of a journey. Its gritty realism is only offset by the guttural dark humour.

The book that changed my life There’s a semi-autobiographical field guide called A Primate’s Memoir by Harvard academic and leading neurobiologist Professor Robert Sapolsky, from Stanford University. It is a funny, insightful, sometimes harrowing reflection of his time in East Africa living alongside a troop of wild baboons.

The book I could happily re-read I love reading books multiple times. I’ve never understood the whole ‘one time only’ phenomenon. I’m now rereading all the Mick Herron’s Slough House series, about a department of inept and mostly useless intelligence agents, who get into more than their fair share of national-level situations.

The first song I remember hearing The first time I can remember music was when I first watched the Disney film Fantasia. I must have been tiny, and I remember watching it with my grandparents. I still recall the feeling of amazing imagery linked with encapsulating music. It was magical.

My karaoke go-to Mustang Sally by Wilson Pickett. I have absolutely no idea why it is my preferred karaoke song but I always give a good go at belting it out.

Bathrooms at

© Pacific Curd Photography

No.

5

5, The Shambles, Bradford on Avon BA15 1JS 01225 309110 | info@bathroomsatno5.co.uk | www.bathbathrooms.com

If you look closely at this Crimes on the Nile photo you’ll spot a duplication of actors

MAKING FRIENDS

N

How a chance meeting in the foyer of the Theatre Royal saw love, and a theatre company, blossom

ew Old Friends is a Bath-based theatre company formed in 2008, which now consists of husband and wife team Heather Westwell and Feargus Woods Dunlop. They specialise in creating shows for casts of four who play multiple roles and have managed to re-enact everything from camel races, underwater rescues, car chases to a full ‘drawing room denouement’ with 14 characters all on stage at once using just four actors. Here, ahead of their new production, Crimes on Centre Court at Theatre Royal Bath 24 – 28 May, we find out a little more about the making of the Bath Life Award-winning New Old Friends.

How did you both meet?

We actually met in the foyer of Theatre Royal Bath, 19 December 2007. Feargus, known as Fearg, was working on a local schools’ tour for the pantomime (Aladdin that year) and Heather had written to the theatre to gain work experience as part of her Bath Spa University course. We hit it off immediately, and celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary this May. Tells us a little about the origins of New Old Friends

New Old Friends was formed by Fearg and his fellow University of Leeds graduate Josh

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

Golga. Together they wrote Mate which was the company’s debut show in 2008. It was very different in tone and style to what the company now specialises in; there was no multi-rolling, the jokes were much more edgy (largely culled from Fearg’s aborted stand-up routines) and there was little to no thought about design. All of which was to change when Josh left to pursue writing for film and Heather got involved.

“We actually met in the foyer of Theatre Royal Bath, 19 December 2007” Who does the writing, and where do you rehearse?

Fearg is the main writer but always with plenty of input and feedback from Heather.

The writing can, and does, happen almost anywhere. Crimes Camera Action was largely written in the back of the van during the Crimes on the Nile tour. We rehearse in a barn. We’ve added flooring, insulation and a fancy heating system so it’s not quite as rustic as it sounds, but when you step outside you are immediately

on a working farm which is awesome. All our previous sets, costumes and props are stored there too which is great for inspiration.

How do you manage as a couple, and working together?

We often get asked about how we balance living and working together, but it’s how we met and so we’ve never known anything other than this dynamic. It has its pros and cons but ultimately we got married because we’re really quite fond of each other and so spending so much time together is a thing we really enjoy.

How many productions have you done?

Crimes on Centre Court will be our 13th separate stage show, with a further five audio stories for our Comedy Whodunnits: For Your Ears podcast series.

What can the audience expect of Crimes on Centre Court?

It is our first all-new production since Covid, and it is wildly ambitious. It is based upon one of the audio comedy thrillers we released during lockdown on our podcast, and features live harmony singing, truly ridiculous quick changes, and multiple tennis matches played out on stage. Plus, all the usual murder and wordplay nonsense. n For more: www.newoldfriends.co.uk

© PAMEL A R AITH PHOTOGR APHY

ARTS

© PAMEL A R AITH PHOTOGR APHY © JULIAN FOXON PHOTOGR APHY

Emile Clarke in A Christmas Getaway at the Ustinov in 2021

© PAMEL A R AITH PHOTOGR APHY

Heather and Kirsty Cox at the Ustinov in Crimes, Camera, Action in March 2020

Tom Medcalfe, Dan Winter and Feargus in The Falcon’s Malteser by Anthony Horowitz

© PAMEL A R AITH PHOTOGR APHY

Swiss Family Robinson was a co-production with The Core at Corby Cube for Christmas 2019

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

BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

Picture this The art of illustrating children’s books is growing ever more popular

“Greenberg’s stunning illustrated storybook retells the myth of the Greek goddess who made the Earth”

T

he rapid improvement in imaginative children’s illustrated books is, fortunately, showing no signs of abating. Long gone are the days where non-fiction books for kids meant just dinosaurs, space and kings and queens; now you can come across illustrated factual or mythological books for young readers that are every bit as niche and intriguing as the ones that fill the adult history, science or classics shelves.

One example, not brand new, is currently adorning one of the windows at Mr B’s as author-illustrator William Grill came to paint gold and green images from its cover for us. Bandoola: The Great Elephant Rescue (Flying Eye, £15.99) is set in war-torn Myanmar and retells the true story of a heroic elephant that led more than 200 people and 50 other elephants through dense forest and up treacherous mountains into the sanctuary of North India.

The story itself is heart-warming, particularly in its descriptions of the connections between the animals and those caring for them. But it’s the illustrations that are the big winner. Just as he did in his previous books – most notably the inspired Shackleton’s Journey – Grill will switch focus and style between pages to keep the young (or adult) reader entranced. One page will be a graphic novel-style captioned close-up of the expedition planning, whilst the next will be an almost wordless double-page spread of a Myanmar mountain-scape. And only Grill can get away with including a splendidly geeky full inventory page, showing a tiny portrait of every human and elephant, which kids love to spend time investigating.

A couple of panes across from Bandoola, graphic novelist Isabel Greenberg has illustrated another of our windows with images from her latest creation, Gaia: Goddess of Earth (Bloomsbury, £14.99). Greenberg’s stunning

illustrated storybook was co-created with her sister Imogen, and retells the myth of the Greek goddess who made the Earth and the universe and all its natural wonders, only to then watch its abuse by the other gods. Needless to say, as well as the mythic tale itself, there are some obvious environmental messages underpinning this retelling and this beautiful storybook also serves as a call to arms to younger readers to protect what remains of Gaia’s planet.

Gaia, like its predecessor Athena (also Bloomsbury, £14.99) can really be enjoyed by any age from seven or so up, and thanks to the vivid illustrations is a perfect one to capture young imaginations when being read aloud.

To prove the point that all areas of grown-up interest are nowadays all covered somewhere by publishers of books for younger folk, Hidden Cities by Susana Esteban, Irene Noguer and Laura Fernandez (Welbeck, £12.99) is a brand new architectural title for ‘middle-grade’ ages and beyond which looks beneath the surface of the world’s towns and cities to show what’s really going on. From the intricate maze of tunnels of New York’s subway system to actual subterranean cities under the Australian desert, this heavily illustrated book shows how man has gone about creating such ingenious underground landscapes and how they connect to what’s above.

Some double page spreads focus on history, such as the story behind the 18 levels of tunnels that acted as safe-zones when under attack in Turkey’s Cappodocia, whilst others are more scientific – like the last entry on the engineering miracle of the Channel tunnel.

Perhaps the crucial thing about all three of these beautiful books, is that they don’t patronise the child reading them and they’re never afraid to dive into the detail to inspire some future historian, scientist, classicist or environmental campaigner!

Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; tel: 01225 331155; www.mrbsemporium.com

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

14 Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HN www.libbycarterandco.c om | Tel: 07743 393022

THE REEL THING EMMA INGLEDEW CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:

Maverick starring Tom Cruise; Jeremy Irvine and Jack Lowden in Benediction; Michelle Yeoh turns universe saving hero in Everything Everywhere All At Once; Vortex with Dario Argento as Lui and Francoise Lebrun as Elle

War poets, the multiverse, and Tom Cruise flies again at the Little Theatre this month Benediction

Release date 20 May

Benediction is a beautifully made film about the life of Siegfried Sassoon, one of Britain’s most famous war poets and anti-war advocates, who returned from World War II a decorated hero, and spent the rest of his life trying to make sense of the horrors he had seen.

The role of Sassoon is split between Jack Lowden (known for BBC’s War and Peace) and Peter Capaldi (Doctor Who), and both of them play the part masterfully. This is a film about a deeply difficult subject, and both actors truly capture Sassoon’s grief and guilt, supported by the wonderful and moving writing of Terence Davies, who also directs the film.

Vortex

Release date 20 May

Argentinian filmmaker Gaspar Noé has risen to fame as a well known provocateur. Since his 1998 debut I Stand Alone, his stylised vision has fascinated audiences and artists alike. It’s no wonder then that his latest entry Vortex, whilst more stripped back, retains his key eye and artistic visuals. Françoise Lebrun stars as a retired psychiatrist with dementia being taken care of by her husband who is a

writer with a heart condition. Her husband is played by one of Noé’s inspirations, famed writer and director Dario Argento, known for Suspiria, and The Bird With The Crystal Plummage, and brings an intriguing element to Noé’s most personal film yet.

Top Gun: Maverick Release date 27 May

Tom Cruise once again takes to the skies in this highly anticipated follow up to his 1980 hit Top Gun. ‘Highly anticipated’ barely covers the hype for this film, as it has already set records as the longestadvertised film in motion picture history due to a nearly three-year gap between its first trailer and its official release.

Fortunately, it manages to not only meet expectations, but soar above them, with early reactions calling it a perfect sequel.

Excitingly, at the insistence of Tom Cruise, there are no green screen or CGI aerial shots in the film. Instead, all shots are taken during real in-flight sequences.

This meant that much of the cast had to undergo extensive G-force training sessions to withstand the physical demands of the G-force pressures during flights.

Everything Everywhere All At Once Release date 27 May

A mind-bending multiverse movie starring Michelle Yeoh? Yes please. Yeoh stars as Evelyn Wang, whose business, marriage, and relationship with her daughter are all failing. But things are about to get a whole lot worse as cosmic chaos descends. Not only does she realise there are parallel Evelyns in the multiverse, there’s a mad fiend who wants to destroy the world, and she alone has the power to stop him. The film also stars Ke Huy Quan, aka Short Round from Indiana Jones and The Temple of Doom, in his first major role in 20 years.

Everything Everywhere All At Once has already taken America by storm, becoming the highest rated film of all time on Letterboxd, the social network for film lovers, and is receiving rave reviews from, well, pretty much everyone, everywhere, all at once.

Emma Ingledew is manager at The Little Theatre Cinema, 1–2 St Michael’s Place; www.picturehouses.co.uk

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

SPONSORED CONTENT

THINK PINK

A case study by GARDINER HASKINS showcases Becky and Noel’s newly renovated kitchen, in which they have created a wonderland of colour

B

ecky and Noel heard about Gardiner Haskins through a neighbour who’d previously had a stunning kitchen design put together by one of our designers, Alec Yull. They spoke very highly of him, convincing Becky and Noel to get in touch.

Becky and Noel had moved in the last few years, and were doing up the house as and when they could. The kitchen refit took place during the pandemic; a risky time for businesses, and Becky told us that when considering a selection of kitchen designers, some wouldn’t even talk to her.

In contrast, she was incredibly impressed with the service she received from our team at Gardiner Haskins, who took the time to help with her vision, making for a stress-free process.

The colour scheme Becky opted for was a cool, matt blend of navy blue, pale grey, and candyfloss pink. The shades are part of a Shaker-style range of kitchen by English Rose, featuring bright white countertops and a large double sink.

For dry-food storage, Becky and Noel went with a spacious, built-in pantry by Mackintosh kitchens. Once opened, it reveals a gorgeous interior of solid oak shelves, fashioned with wicker and wooden baskets 46 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

which slot satisfyingly into the spaces provided.

Conveniently, all the family’s dry food can fit behind those double doors, leaving room in the other cabinets for kitchenware.

Becky has multiple favourite features in her new kitchen. The first is the built-in bin unit on the kitchen island which includes the recycling, general and food waste. Her second favourite is the tall standing freezer by Neff, with big, spacious draws to store plenty of food.

It’s all about the little touches. For example, our designer Alec suggested a certain dishwasher because it’s very quiet when in use – ideal for an open-plan space to prevent noise disrupting enjoyment of the TV. A Quooker tap was also recommended by Alec and the fitters; it’s turned out to be well worth the money and a brilliant feature within their kitchen.

Despite the newness of the kitchen, Becky achieved the traditional look she was going for. The Smeg range cooker is striking in black and gives a classic feel. Originally, Becky asked for a gas stove; however, Alec suggested the induction hob and they were swept away by the technology. The safety aspects are also a bonus for anyone with children.

Sitting between the hob and the cooker hood is a stunning set of patchwork tiles. Becky and Noel opted for hanging lights giving off a warm,

ambient glow with undercabinet kitchen lighting to brighten the work surface below.

Becky loves the new open- plan kitchen. It creates a social environment – ideal for summer when they start having friends over. Even though she and Noel struggled to envision how the completed kitchen would look at the beginning, the artist’s impression Alec put together for them was “bang on” when compared to the final project. They said the kitchen is of excellent quality and have since recommended Gardiner Haskins to lots of people. n

To upgrade your kitchen and fill your friends with envy, book your free planning and design consultation at Gardiner Haskins Interiors kitchen showroom; see gardinerhaskins.co.uk or call us on 01179 292288.

ITALIAN MENU WITH A MODERN APPROACH EXTENSIVE WINE LIST

2 John Street, Bath, BA1 2JL 01225 482070 | bookings@laterra.co.uk www.laterra.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK S N A P S H O T S O F B AT H ’ S F O O D S C E N E

ELECTRIC DREAMS Electric Bear Brewing

There are a huge array of options at the artisan and street food market

New owner David Horner (far right) with the Electric Bear team

Company has new owners.

The popular Bath-based brewery has been acquired

by David and Mary Horner, who have lived in the city for over 20 years.

“I’ve always wanted to own a brewery and have missed out on a number of occasions over the years, so when I heard that Bath’s only craft brewery, right here on my doorstep, was available, it was too good an opportunity to miss,” says David. “Electric Bear is hugely popular amongst locals, who have queued round the block for the weekly taproom sessions and love the fun, eye-catching can designs. The brewery has so much untapped potential and an excellent brewing team, so we are very much looking forward to further developing the brand over the next few years.”

For more: www.electricbearbrewing.co.uk

Avon Food Festival. On 11 and 12 June a huge array of food and drink experiences, foodie sampling and demonstrations will take over Victory Fields with an artisan and street food market featuring the likes of Fatso Burgers, Bath Life Award-winning Somerset Chilli Company, and Scout and Sage Gin. Plus there’s the opportunity to meet the artisans and hear about how they have evolved their businesses; a pop-up pub

by FestivAles featuring a fantastic range of local and award-winning brews; and a side dish of live music, fun kids activities, a dog show, and Home@BOA, which will showcase lifestyle gifts and kitchenalia.

For more: www.scrumptiousfoodfestivals.co.uk

© SEAN CALIT Z

OH GOODIE! It’s almost time for the return of the Bradford on

Merlin and the Osip team celebrating their new status as no 1 in the UK

FAYRE & SQUARE

Meet the artisans behind the produce at the Bradford on Avon food festival

Bruton-based Osip has been named the best restaurant in the UK by SquareMeal’s UK Top 100. Using a combination of thousands of reader votes and its own expert critics, the Top 100 List is the only one of its kind to exclude restaurants in London to give ‘a true reflection of Britain’s beautifully varied dining scene’. Osip is a tiny farm-to-table restaurant helmed by renowned chef Merlin Labron-Johnson, who earned his first Michelin star at age 24 at his first restaurant, Portland, in London – and went on to be named in the Forbes 30 under 30.

“It’s a huge honour to be awarded No 1 in SquareMeal’s top 100 UK restaurants,” says Merlin. “I’m so grateful to my team, and the amazing local suppliers we work with who have been so integral to achieving this accolade. I’m really proud that this has been voted for by genuine, passionate people who love what we’re doing at Osip, so it truly does mean a lot.”

For more: www.osiprestaurant.com

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

TAKE 5 universities. Uday supports the business by handling the back office, dealing with suppliers, importation and administration.

Uday and Hetel Taylor are selling spices ethically sourced from Zanzibar

What’s the story behind the shop’s name?

Kaskazi is an old Swahili word which means the ‘north wind’.

Ancient spice traders used the winds to sail between the island of Zanzibar and Muscat in Oman, several thousand kilometres away.

These winds eventually became known as the trade winds and played a major role in establishing Zanzibar as the spice capital of the known world.

What sorts of things will we find on your shelves?

Tanzania and Zanzibar have some of the finest teas and spices that you can find anywhere on earth, however poor marketing means that most people don’t even know where Zanzibar is – let alone understand what they produce and the enormous role the island played in the history of the ancient spice trade. We decided to bring some of these fantastic products to the UK.

Over many centuries of spice farming, these families have passed down their traditional farming and processing methods to the younger generation. Their knowledge and experience, paired with the expertise of the 1001 Organic team, are central to the success of our spice initiative.

Is this a lot different from the mainstream spice industry?

Yes. Our farmers all share the same wish: the protection of the environment and a future for their families. Unlike the conventional spice industry, we encourage mixed-crop agroforestry and use only natural fertilisers and organic pesticides.

What’s the impact on the mainstream way of working?

Many farmer families in Zanzibar are living in relative poverty as the traditional spice industry does not fairly remunerate the production of high-quality spices. The industry talks of ‘full container loads’ and ‘world market prices’ instead of quality, freshness, fairness and transparency.

“Kaskazi is an old Swahili word which means ‘north wind’”

HETAL AND UDAY TAYLOR There’s a new must-visit health food shop in town…

T

here’s a newbie on Northumberland Place. Kaskazi Back to Nature is the latest health food haven in town, selling a wide selection of ethically sourced and organic teas, superfoods, spices from Tanzania and Zanzibar and a range of mouth-watering sweet treats.

Owners Uday and Hetal Taylor are here to tell us more about their new venture…

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

Kaskazi Back to Nature sounds like such a great business. Tell us a little about its background

The business is family-run with Hetal looking after the customer-facing side of the business. Hetal is no stranger to the health and wellness business, having previously owned a spa and beauty salon in Tanzania, before moving to Bath to be with their two children, who are both studying at local

And it’s all ethically sourced?

What’s your personal recommendations?

And your eco credentials..?

Everything we sell is organically grown and packed without chemicals and additives. Our packaging is also 100 per cent recyclable or compostable Our suppliers use sustainable agricultural practices such as permaculture, which help preserve native rainforests.

They sound delicious!

Why are they a more nutritious option?

Full of natural goodness with absolutely no additives, refined sugar or palm oil, our cashew butters make a delicious and healthy substitute to commercially available chocolate spreads and nut butters. Warning though – they’re highly addictive and once you start it’s impossible to stop!

We work with partners who value their communities and the environment at least as much as they do profit. Our current suppliers are social enterprises who put significant effort into growing their local communities using a combination of education and structured poverty elimination programmes.

Who are the suppliers?

We work together with more than 100 organic-certified farmer families in Zanzibar.

Our gourmet cashew butters are a huge hit with customers.

Routinely described as ‘divine’, we have several delicious rich and creamy flavours including mocha, double chocolate, cinnamon roll, white chocolate cheesecake and choco brownie crunch.

For more: Kaskazi Back to Nature, 15 Northumberland Place, Bath; www.kaskazi.shop

ETHICAL, ORGANIC SPICES, TEA AND SUPERFOODS YOUR ONE STOP SHOP

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RAPHAEL Globally influenced dining at the restaurant on Upper Borough Walls

By Lydia Tewkesbury

W

e are spoiled for choice when it comes to dinner options in Bath – perhaps a little too spoiled. Such is the variety there are a number of spots on the list that we walk past on a weekly basis, think – I really must!

– and then let more months slip by without a visit. This was my relationship with Raphael – until now.

The spot on Upper Borough Walls is a cool and intimate restaurant and wine bar with a real emphasis on the wine – the list is expansive and racks of the good stuff adorn the wall like trophies. But it’s not just for show – the staff know their stock and have a recommendation by the glass ready for every palette. You don’t need to know anything about wine – but even if you do – I recommend allowing yourself to be guided by the Raphael expertise, it will take your experience to the next level.

The menu is an eclectic amalgam of global influences – our choices incorporated Japanese, Italian, British,

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

Thai and Indian flavours artfully combined. After the bread – a sumptuous crusty loaf served with tangy goats cheese and spicy chilli butter – I started with a light and refreshing heritage tomato salad, which came with a drizzle of fresh pesto, dollops of mozzarella and a topping of crunchy, tart pickled onions. While I went for the flavours of the Med, my friend began with a distinctly Asian-infused dish of beef short rib with rice noodles and soy shiitake mushrooms – a deeply flavourful, meaty, umami match made in heaven. Onto the mains – which for me was a veganised monkfish dish. The eclectic, flavourful plate was packed with different culinary influences from around the world. Crispy tofu with Bombay potatoes, lightly cooked so they kept their bite and punchy with spices like cumin, turmeric and garam masala, and Japanese-inspired katsu coconut with a sweet finish of brown sugar and creamy coconut foam. It was, in a word, divine. You know when the meal is so good the conversation sort of falls by the wayside because you can

RESTAURANT

“A deeply flavourful, meaty, umami match made in heaven” no longer concentrate on the world outside of your plate?

That. My friend went for an equally heavenly lamb, a rump encrusted with chewy pistachios served with mash and sumptuous Sicilian-style aubergine caponata.

We were stuffed. My friend could eat no more. So I took one for the team, and ate dessert for the both of us. If there is one dessert menu favourite I can never say no to, it is salted caramel. So when I saw the Snickers with salted caramel ice cream I knew exactly what I was having. And – wow. Light, whipped, chocolatey, peanut-y mousse was the perfect bedfellow for banana (from now on, every regular Snickers needs to come with a banana chaser) and the creamy, lip-smacking salted caramel ice cream to top it all off. I ate it in tiny mouthfuls, savouring the moment.

Inside Raphael, it becomes an escape from stress, from news cycles, from the to-do list. It’s just you, a friend, food and the special kind of bonding inspired by a truly exceptional meal. n

DINING DETAILS Raphael, Gascoyne House, Upper Borough Walls, Bath, BA1 1RN; tel: 01225 480042; www.raphaelrestaurant.co.uk

Prices Starters £9 - £11, mains £18 - £30, desserts £9 - £14

Opening hours Monday – Saturday 122.30pm and 5.30-10pm; Sundays roasts 12-3.30pm

Vegetarian options Yes – it’s a small menu so not masses but there are veggie options and the ability to veganise certain dishes

Names of owners Kambiz and Ben Shayegan

Specialities At Raphael it’s really all about the wine. Let your server guide you through the over 150 bottles on the list to find the perfect match for your meal

Established 2000 Name of chefs Head chef Miles Kesterton and sous chef Tom Furnival Type of food A fresh take on modern British food with international influences Covers 46

Disabled access Yes

Atmosphere Relaxed but refined – everything about Raphael gave the feeling of treating yourself to something special. A great one for date night

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 53

5-6 Seven Dials, Saw Close, Bath BA1 1EN 01225 312341 Beau Nash House, Saw Close, Bath, UK BA1 1EU 01225 330030 | reservations@amaroneristorante.co.uk

enquiries@vinovinowinebar.co.uk www.vinovinowinebar.co.uk

www.amaroneristorante.co.uk

Gascoyne House, Upper Borough Walls, Bath BA1 1RN

34 SAW CLOSE, BATH, BA1 1EY

01225 480042 | reservations@raphaelrestaurant.co.uk

01225 311181 | ENQUIRIES@THEOVENPIZZERIA.CO.UK

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ROYAL FAYRE

W

ho better to whip up some party dishes for Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee than the queen of baking herself Dame Mary Berry. Mary, who was born and raised in Bath and attended Royal High School Bath, once described meeting the Queen at Buckingham Palace as the ‘greatest memory’ of her career. Here she has created two celebratory dishes that are fit for a queen – and not a coronation chicken in sight..!

TANTALISING UNION JACK TART WITH HONEY & BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE Serves 6

A step up from bunting, this delicious goat’s cheese tart will reign supreme at the street party Ingredients 1 pack ready to roll puff pastry 3 red peppers 4 red onions 180g soft goat’s cheese 1 egg for glaze Olive oil drizzle Honey for drizzling Green salad 6 tbsp Mary Berry’s Honey & Balsamic Vinaigrette Method 1 Preheat the oven to 180ºC. 2 Chop the red peppers and red onions into medium size chunks (approx.

3cm x 3cm). Place on a baking tray, each on its own side. Drizzle both with olive oil and the onion side with some honey too. Cook for 20-25 mins until softened.

3 Meanwhile, prepare the pastry.

Line a flat baking sheet with baking parchment and unroll the puff pastry sheet onto it. Prick all over the inside of the rectangle with a fork.

4 Then arrange the filling as you like (you can create the union jack like we did). Add the grilled peppers, onions and goat’s cheese and brush the sides of the pastry with beaten egg.

5 Bake for 15-25 minutes, until the pastry is golden and crisp.

6 Toss the salad in Mary Berry’s Honey & Balsamic Vinaigrette and serve. This is also great at room temperature.

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

RECIPE

FISH AND CHIP CELEBRATION CONES WITH BLUE CHEESE DRESSING Serves 4

Get traditional and mark 70 years of our incredible English monarch with a round of fish and chips – cod save the Queen!

Ingredients 4 large potatoes 1 cup vegetable oil for frying Sea salt (to taste) 2 cod fillets Salt /pepper (to taste) ½ cup Panko crumb ½ cup flour 2 eggs, whisked 4 tbsp Mary Berry’s Blue Cheese Dressing to serve Lemon wedges to serve Chopped chives to serve

Method 1 Peel the potatoes and cut lengthways into roughly 1cm slices. Cut each slice into fairly thick chips, rinse in cold water and pat dry with kitchen towel.

2 Heat the oil in a deep frying pan. Carefully lower the chips into the hot oil and fry for 10 minutes, or until cooked through, but not browned. Carefully remove the chips from the pan, set aside to drain on kitchen paper.

3 Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place chips on a baking tray and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until crisp and golden brown.

4 Meanwhile cut fish into strips and season well with salt and pepper. Place the flour, whisked eggs and panko crumbs in 3 separate dishes, ready to coat the fish. Start by coating the fish in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then coat the fish in the whisked eggs and finish them off

by coating in the panko breadcrumbs, making sure to really press the breadcrumbs on the fish so they get a good crust.

5 Transfer the coated fish strips onto a baking sheet. Let the fish sticks rest while you heat the oil in the deep frying pan.

6 When oil is hot, add the fish strips. Fry for 3 minutes, after which the fish strips should be nicely browned on the underside and can be flipped.

7 Flip and cook for another 3 minutes on the second side. Then remove and let them cool on a few paper towels.

8 Serve your double cooked chips and fish in paper cones, with a lemon wedge, sprinkle of chives and a drizzle of Mary Berry’s Blue Cheese Dressing.

For more: www.maryberrysfoods.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 57

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QUEEN TEA This year The Queen will become the first British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee after an amazing 70 years of service. Say cheers to Her Majesty’s historic reign with a very British big cup of tea, and over on page 9 we look at how the city is celebrating the Platinum Jubilee Central Weekend, which takes place 2 – 5 June.

God Save The Queen half pint mug by Emma Bridgewater, £22, available from Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 61

LUXURY VELVET CUSHION, £49 This beautiful cushion with a feather pad, covered in a vibrant and tactile navy velvet, is perfect for sofas, beds, and reading nooks.

From India Jane, 20 Milsom Street, Bath; www.indiajane.co.uk

ROYAL BUNTING, £18 Add the royal touch to your celebrations with colourful bunting in red, white and blue.

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

RED, WHITE & BLUE Keeping it patriotic from the inside

RANDER CERAMIC STOOL, £225 The handmade Rander ceramic stool with hand-painted red and white stripes is a unique piece that can be used both indoors and outdoors, both for extra seating or as a side table.

From OKA, 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath; www.oka.com

DISH WITH STRIPES, £4.50 Street party plates should be for life like this stunning blue sunburst-style design in navy.

From Vinegar Hill, 16 Milsom Street, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk

WHITE GEOMETRIC TABLE LAMP, £65 A stylish table lamp with a feature tapered shape and a gentle geometric surface pattern for added charm. Topped with a natural cotton shade.

From Cox & Cox; www.coxandcox.co.uk

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

EDITOR’S CHOICE MONKEY PUZZLE PATTERN RUG, £60 From Artisans and Adventurers who Fair Trade with small artisan producers in India to create ethically made and chemical-free textiles. The fabrics have been woven in small batches on handlooms, and then been block printed by hand using natural plant-based dyes.

From Homefront Interiors, 10 Margaret’s Building, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

KENTWELL CHAIR IN DESIGNERS GUILD VARESE PAPRIKA, FROM £1,326 Classic English curvy sofa with old-school bandaged arms and deeply comfy cushions, perfectly balanced on elegant wooden legs.

From Sofas & Stuff, 7 New Canal, Salisbury, www.sofasandstuff.com

WHITE HAND CARVED WOOD PANEL, £75 The beautifully intricate hand work is a lovely alternative to framed art and makes this a real talking point for any room.

From Luca & Fig, 6 Widcombe Parade, Bath; www.lucaandfig.com

BERRY TWIG, £8 Heavily laden with clusters of rich textured blue berries, each of these hedgerow-inspired sprigs contains a hidden malleable wire core within its long hand painted stem, so it can be shaped again and again.

From Neptune, One Tram Yard, Walcot Street, Bath; www.neptune.com

RUST RED LEAF MINI CUSHION BY DONNA WILSON, £31 Small but perfectly formed, this is a miniature version of Donna’s bestselling leaf shaped cushion. Made from 100 per cent lambswool, the minis are knitted in Scotland, then stuffed and hand-finished in Donna’s London studio.

From Julia Davey, 20 Wellsway, Bear Flat, Bath; www.juliadavey.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 63

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FOR THE BODY & MIND Take care of yourself inside and out

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REVITALISE SKIN CARE is an exclusive medical clinic with an ability to deliver great aesthetic results, whilst maintaining the highest standards of patient care, based on the team’s exacting levels of knowledge, professionalism and training. Prior to every treatment full consultations with patients are offered to discuss options. Key treatments include: wrinkle reduction injections, dermal fillers, nonsurgical face lifts and advanced laser hair removal.

01225 760556; www.revitaliseskincareclinic.co.uk

LITTLE LAB offer award-winning beauty classes and beauty salon treatments; they are no strangers to makeup classes. They have been teaching people how to achieve a three-to-five-minute daily routine for over eight years in their shop in Bath, and have taught 4,500 people their bespoke routine. Think of it as shy-ofmakeup mentoring aimed to give confidence. Book Live for your beauty appointments. 20 Broad Street, Bath BA1 5LN; 01225 310849; www.littlelab.co.uk

LIVELIFE HEALTH & FITNESS

brings health and fitness to your front door. Personalised, habit forming long lasting changes, in the comfort and security of your home and garden. LiveLife takes the stress from busy professionals looking to make meaningful changes, in order to live a more balanced, confident and healthy lifestyle for themselves and their family.

07858 022228; www.golivelife.co.uk/bathlife

BISHOPSTROW HOTEL & SPA

The newly designed Hot Tub Junior Suites are just one of the latest additions to Bishopstrow Hotel & Spa. Each suite sits on a private terrace surrounded by hedges, adorned with unique art pieces, underfloor-heated, and offers a walk-in rainforest shower experience. What better way to connect body and mind than a private countryside retreat? Boreham Rd, Warminster BA12 9HH; 01985 804680; www.bishopstrowhotel.com

HOMEWOOD BATH

The all-new CBD spa treatment collection at Homewood is one of the first of its kind in the area.

Including a CBD body treatment and facial, these deeply soothing experiences, combined with the natural healing properties of CBD, will increase your energy and spiritual enlightenment. Abbey Lane, Freshford, Somerset, BA2 7TB; 01225 580439; spa@homewoodbath.co.uk; www.homewoodbath.co.uk

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GARDENS

VILLAGE GREEN How Steeple Ashton’s garden open days are raising funds and bringing the community together Words by Nick Woodhouse Photos by Kathryn Sewell

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he tower of the Church of St Mary the Virgin looms high above the Wiltshire village of Steeple Ashton. Dating back to the early 15th century, when the parish was a bustling market town at the heart of the local cloth industry, the tower was once surmounted by a lofty stone spire, the second highest in the county after Salisbury Cathedral. Two lighting

meadow, orchard and pond.

Ashton House, dating back to around 1400 and sat on the village’s High Street, will be one such property opening its outdoor spaces to the event. Its gardens are the largest of the village and feature a Victorian swimming pool, now a pond, aligned perfectly to enjoy uninterrupted views onto the very church for which the event is raising funds. The owners of the property are collectors of contemporary sculpture; pieces that sit amongst its equally renowned collection of topiary.

The village is also home to the Wiltshire Guild of Spinners Weavers and Dyers, who set up a garden in their new home on moving to the village in 2010. The dye garden, sat within the grounds of the former St Mary’s School, features a fascinating collection of plants, each labelled with their name, part of plant used, and colours obtained. Highlights include madder, Japanese indigo, weld, woad, dyer’s chamomile, dyer’s greenweed, goldenrod and tansy.

Dye enthusiasts should keep a particular eye out for the much-prized Impatiens tinctoria within the garden. Originating from the tropical climes of east Africa, this perennial dyer’s busy lizzie grows surprisingly well in the sheltered gardens of the village, towering to as much as two metres when established. The tuberous perennial produces racemes of fragrant, hooded white flowers with deep red throats. You may spot soapwort too; thought to originate from the Middle East, the plant is believed to have been introduced to these shores by Franciscan and Dominican monks.

Traditionally used as a medicinal herb and natural washing detergent, the long oval leaves of this plant are still used today in the making of artisanal and homemade soaps.

This year’s event will also see the return of its ever-popular plant stall, run by village

“The village is also home to the Wiltshire Guild of Spinners Weavers and Dyers”

strikes in 1670 led to the collapse and demise of this spire, but the tower remains, adorned now on its southern side by a nineteenth century gold and aqua-blue clockface.

The clock was recently restored and regilded thanks to funds raised by the village’s popular Open Gardens Day. Due to the pandemic, it’s been three years since the last such event, and organiser Kathryn Sewell is hoping this one is going to be the biggest yet.

As many as a thousand visitors are expected at this year’s offering, held on Sunday 29 May, and including 15 open gardens throughout the village.

Kathryn, a photographer and keen gardener, moved from London’s Bethnal Green to the village with husband Robin, an art lecturer, in 2016. Their garden will be one of the 15 open to the public on the final Sunday of May. This year’s event will see six new gardens added to its roll call; a wide-ranging offering, from cottage gardens to an acre of field that features a wildflower

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

resident Gill Aldridge. Plants donated by the villagers, alongside a selection of those from The Nursery at Hilperton, are going to be particularly wide-ranging this year; succulents and carnivorous plants will be on offer, as well as the more traditional perennials and bedding plants. Floral arrangements will also be available on the day, sold from the event’s traditional wooden cart and prepared

by Petra Brown and the team at St Mary’s Flower Arrangers. For those looking for some sustenance between gardens, Pimms will be served from marquees on the lawns of Moorfield Farm. And across the road, the village hall will also be offering cream teas and home-made cakes.

To date, the event has raised more than £50,000 for ongoing repairs to the village church. Like so many of our cherished heritage buildings, the need for regular maintenance of St Mary’s is ongoing and relentless; to the north of the church sit two beautiful, but decaying, tombs likely to collapse unless they are given the attention they so desperately need. Hopefully there won’t be such a wait between this year’s open day and the next; these fundraising events are as crucial as they are captivating.

For more: Steeple Ashton Open Gardens in Trowbridge is on Sunday 29 May, 11am to 6pm. Advance tickets from TicketSource; www.ticketsource.co.uk

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

clockwise from top left: Gill Aldridge runs the plant stall; the topiary at Ashton

House; and the dovecote; the view from the house’s Victorian pond towards the tower of the Church of St Mary the Virgin; an ornamental red bridge found in the grounds; Ashton House dates back to around 1400

HEALTH & BEAUTY left to right: The 12 Trim Street

salon won a Bath Life Award this year; Sarah’s grey was beautifully coloured; the sun drenched courtyard

KEEPING IT TRIM Sarah Baker is thrilled when the Bath Life Award-winning team at 12 Trim Street sort her home hair dye disaster

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hey say that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, however, I raise you a fabulous colourist who can sort your post Covid, home hair dye, march of the grey, disaster…yep, get yourself a brilliant hairdresser and make them your bestie.

I’m off to see the aptly named 12 Trim Street Salon, hot on the heels of their Bath Life Award win. And it wasn’t difficult to see why Emily, Leyla, and team, were crowned the best beauty business in Bath in 2021.

The 12 Trim Street story is yet another Bath lockdown tale of success, Emily and Leyla having grabbed the keys to the salon only weeks away from that fateful March 2020.

This spacious courtyard salon across two floors, that also includes beauty rooms, was flushed with sunshine, the perfect spot to wait with hot tea, a generous bowl of mini eggs, and a copy of Bath Life. And I’ll fess up – I also

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

had wine, as it was a sunny Friday and close to clocking off time.

It was evident from the get-go that Emily has all the credentials and coiffuring experience required to make good of an epic and disastrous hair situation. In fact, she instinctively understood my needs, my natural colouring, face shape and ideal look.

This allowed me to relax and feel confident about the experience ahead; she was also warm, funny, and friendly and we importantly shared a love of Labradors (if like me you judge people by their pet likes!). It was like she’d been doing my hair for years.

12 Trim Street use Wella, L’Oréal and Redken brands for colouring. Emily chose L’Oréal colour being best for my hair type as Loreal INOA is kind on the scalp, good for grey coverage but also leaves the hair glossy and shiny. L’Oréal INOA is an ammonia-free

professional hair colour product that uses an oil delivery system that creates a fantastic finish with the absence of ammonia meaning there are no unpleasant lingering odours, just soft shiny hair. Emily both covered my grey (hallelujah) and softened an old harsh line of colour, by adding wispy blonde highlights. We also agreed that I should reinstate my fringe and Emily showed me a few styling alternatives too that she thought might suit me.

The 12 Trim Street rinse is also worth a special mention because not only was the scalp massage divine, and most welcome, but it was also the first time I had ever been offered hot towels to towel dry the hair. Game changer – what a delicious and simple treat that was yet but another small and excellent detail.

Emily gave me a fabulous blow-dry and given the hairdressing benchmark in Bath is sky-high, I’d call that another gem of an accolade.

As a side note I thought it fabulous to see beautiful cobbled Trim Street, part of the ancient West Gate to the city brought very much to life by not only the salon but also the Stanza Gym crew – must be something to do with the word ‘trim’… n

“Emily instinctively understood my needs”

Prices include £20 for a Fix Me Quick, balayage from £125, and the Keratin smoothing treatment, £110 For more: 12 Trim Street, 12 Trim Street, Bath; www.12trimstreet.com

A lot of the students who now work at Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park were regulars visitors as children

ESCAPE THE CITY Learn more about the beauty, buzz, and indie businesses of nearby Keynsham and Saltford

By Lydia Tewkesbury 70 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

OUT OF TOWN

left: Wild About Flowers see annual events create a buzz in the High Street; below: Word of mouth helped Flourish grow its business; bottom: Delicious Mexican dishes at Dalia Cocina

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t’s a little too easy to stay in our Bath bubble. With so many options right on the doorstep, far too many of us haven’t ventured out to properly explore to local area. Here, we make the case for Keynsham – and its smaller sibling Saltford, a mere ten minutes down the road. Locals in the know share the thriving independent businesses, culture and community only a short distance away.

KEYNSHAM

Ivy Sherwood, Wild About Flowers, 33 High Street, Keynsham; www.wild-aboutflowers.co.uk

invested in the community, and we support the local businesses and schools where we can. With our riverside location and views over the Avon Valley, we have so much beautiful countryside on our doorstep but are minutes away from the culture and vibrancy Bath and Bristol bring too.”

Kirsty Davenport, Dalia Cocina, 35 High Street, Keynsham; www.daliacocinamexican.com

“Keynsham is a really lovely place with a really lovely sense of community. With the past two years, for a new restaurant – I opened in 2018 – it was so difficult, but everyone was absolutely amazing and really wanting to support independents.

“Keynsham is so perfectly placed between Bristol and Bath, and along the rivers and canal. I love Cinnamon for a great curry, and The Wine Bar is really nice. If I need birthday presents and something nice I head to Wild About Flowers, Polkadot or Trigaci. There’s so much on our doorstep – and friendly people too.”

“The town is always growing”

“We love how connected Keynsham is to its surrounding areas, it’s a great community with established organisations offering support and entertainment for all ages. Many annual events create a great atmosphere along the High Street, with all the local businesses always getting involved from the summer music festival to monthly farmer’s market. The town is always growing – it’s an exciting place to be.

“Longwell Records is located at the opposite end of the High Street to our shop, and we love any chance we get for a visit. Owner Iain is such fun, and so knowledgeable – with just as many stories to tell as records to sell. It’s an award-winning independent record shop that we hope will also be able to resume its live performances that we’ve always enjoyed – Razorlight being a favourite.”

Doug Douglas, owner of Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park, Pixash Lane, Bath Road, Keynsham; www.avonvalleycountrypark.com

“Avon Valley opened 33 years ago by my father, John Douglas. It has remained in our family, currently run by myself and my wife, Hannah.

Originally a ‘pick your own’ farm it has evolved over the years into what is now a much-loved adventure farm park.

“We employ lots of local people and are often first jobs for students who grew up visiting us with their families, so it’s important to us to be

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“Saltford offers you the quiet community feel of a village with the cities of Bath and Bristol just a few miles away” Ivy Sherwood of Wild About Flowers is seeing exciting growth in Keynsham’s high street

A home by SBS Design and Build in Saltford

OUT OF TOWN SALTFORD

Nathan Sheppard, SBS Design and Build, 439 Bath Road, Saltford; www.sbsdesignandbuid.com

“Saltford offers you the quiet, community feel of a village with the two cities of Bath and Bristol just a few miles away.

“The staff at SBS are always keen to hold off-site meetings at The Little Coffee Shop for a latte, or a breakfast at Flourish, or an after work bite to eat from Bonzo Lounge in Keynsham.

“During the summer we have every intention of taking lunch time walks or an after-work jog along with the river and maybe end up at The Bird In Hand for refreshments.

“In lockdown we held a lot of meetings at Haywards where the service and food was excellent, and we regularly hold full team staff meetings in the function space at the New Inn where the whole team can enjoy a drink afterwards and spend some time bonding, and Golden Moments is one of the team’s favourite evenings out for our ‘staff curry night’ events.”

Matt Gregory, Gregory’s Estate Agents, 1 Market Walk, Keynsham; www.gregorysestateagent.co.uk “Saltford, a quaint village near Bath, provides a much quieter location, one which many families enjoy. The impressive and consistently performing primary school is over-subscribed almost every year due to its popularity. The countryside walks, whether you are looking for a challenging hike to Kelston Round Hill (with the obligatory stop off

above: Dalia Cocina received so much customers support through the lockdowns; inset: Congyre Farm in Keynsham is for sale with Gregory’s; below: Newbie Flourish feels so welcomed by the Saltford community

at The Cheese Shop) or a riverside walk, whilst taking well deserved rests at the numerous public houses that line the river – all are to be enjoyed direct from the village.

“The community spirit that Saltford offers is highlighted in many fundraising events that are held throughout the year. A particular highlight of ours and one that we have been directly involved with via numerous sponsorship deals, sees The Christmas Santa Dash every December.

With kids and adults alike taking to the streets of Saltford, this event never fails to raise fantastic money for the chosen charity – one that would never happen if it wasn’t for the local residents volunteering their time.”

Paul Castle, Flourish at Glenavon, Glenavon Farm, Saltford; www.flourishatglenavon.co.uk

“There’s a very strong sense of community in Saltford – everyone certainly seems to know what is going on around here. I know that we have been made to feel so welcome, and Flourish has grown immensely through positive word of mouth. It is surprising how many thriving small businesses there are, in fact we teamed up with Mobius Works and have arranged a Saltford Business Breakfast at Flourish on 25 May. We really want to support the work that the local community do for Saltford, so Flourish has given every member of our team two paid days to go and do some volunteer work. We want to help.” n

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 73

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It’s the city’s business

BATHWORKS THIS ISSUE >>STORM WINS A QUEEN’S AWARD (76) >>BIZ Q&A PATRICK MILL (78) >>AWARDS Q&A SUGARCANE STUDIO (79)

Back of the net

A new exhibition at Bath City Football Club highlights diversity and inclusion

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ath City Football Club is celebrating the diversity of its fans with a new exhibition of portraits shot by local photographer Nick Smith. The My City, My Shirt project makes up more than 30 portraits of fans sporting Bath City FC shirts at iconic locations around the city – with some featuring QR codes with bonus content from the subjects bringing their stories to life.

“These portraits, and more importantly the stories that they represent, are a great celebration of all that Bath City FC has to offer in terms of being a welcoming, friendly club that celebrates the breadth and depth of all our community. We are thrilled to be able to share it,” says Joy Saunders, Bath City FC’s community director.

My City, My Shirt is a partnership between Bath City FC and antidiscrimination organisations Fans for Diversity and Kick It Out, with support from Bath and North East Somerset Council. It launched at Bath City’s final home game of the season on 7 May, with plans to tour other venues in the city before going on permanent display at Twerton Park, where it will highlight the club’s inclusivity for all.

For more: www.bathcityfc.com

Nick Smith created the My City, My Shirt portraits to showcase the diversity of fans of Bath City FC

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BATHWORKS

Bath Spa students raised £2,000 for the DEC with a concert

BREWING UP A STORM Storm Consultancy and CiteAb, a joint venture between Storm and Bath Spa University have both received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise – the most prestigious business award in the UK. Storm, a B-Corp and one of the leading South West digital technology agencies, works with start-ups, scaleups and innovative corporations to design and develop their ideas, and, ultimately, bring them to life online.

CiteAb began as one such project – and is now a world-leading market data provider for life science suppliers, and a tool for researchers.

“To be recognised as one of the most innovative companies in the

UK through the Queen’s Award programme is fantastic,” says Storm’s CEO, David Kelly. “It is testimony to the incredible hard work and dedication that our team has put in over the years. We are also indebted to the multitude of entrepreneurial individuals and organisations who have entrusted us to bring their ideas to market and then innovate alongside them as they grow.”

Representatives from Storm and CiteAb have been invited to a ceremony at Buckingham Palace to celebrate with other winners, taking place this summer.

For more: www.stormconsultancy.co.uk

SONGS WITH MEANING Students and staff from Bath Spa University’s BA (Hons) Commercial Music course have raised over £2,000 for the Disasters Emergency Committee’s (DEC) Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal with a concert and raffle at Komedia.

The concert came together in a one-week whirlwind of organisation. Komedia helped Commercial Music student Olivia Carey organise and plan the event, which it also hosted – with the help of 30 volunteers from Bath Spa. Olivia was motivated to host the concert and raffle after receiving messages from friends in Ukraine and in Belarus – where she grew up – explaining their situations.

Olivia says, “The concert was a demonstration of the whole community coming together to create such a special event for such an important cause.”

In addition to the volunteers, local and national businesses donated amazing raffle prizes, and bands The John Martyn Project, Pentire, Tangled Oaks, Dempsey, Connor McLeod and Gracie Grinter performed.

For more: www.bathspa.ac.uk

The Storm team are celebrating royal recognition

A GREAT RECEPTION Two Bath hotels have been nominated for the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa and No.15 by GuestHouse, Bath received nods in the Large Hotel of the Year and Small Hotel of the Year categories respectively, following a rigorous selection process by hand-picked tourism industry experts.

“We are absolutely thrilled for the teams at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa and No.15 by GuestHouse, Bath who thoroughly deserve to be named in the top three hotels in their category for these prestigious national awards,” says Kathryn Davis, Visit West director of tourism. “They have already achieved so much in the local and regional awards and so we will be cheering them on when the winners are announced on 8 June.”

For more: www.visitwest.co.uk

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No.15 By GuestHouse is nominated for Small Hotel of the Year

Emma Taylor of Goughs Solicitors

© DAVID BICKERSTAFF

© NO.1 ROYAL CRESCENT – BATH PRESERVATION TRUST

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC

The Bath Preservation Trust has won four different awards for its properties including No. 1 Royal Crescent

TEAM WORK

Goughs Solicitors has announced a new charity partnership with Julia’s House children’s hospice. It provides practical and emotional support for families caring for a child with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition with services in their own home, the community or at the charity’s hospices.

“There are so many local charities that provide essential advice and support to the local community and as such it became very difficult to select only one,” says Emma Taylor, a partner at Goughs. “However, we were all in admiration of the work undertaken by Julia’s House in caring for children and families at a time when they need it the most. We really want to help them make a real difference to children across Wiltshire and Dorset.”

Goughs will take part in a range of fundraising activities throughout the partnership, starting with the Julia’s House Great Wiltshire Walk in July. www.goughs.co.uk

A NEW TIME

Novia and Wealthtime are to be unified under a single group brand Wealthtime.

The rebrand is the final stage of a strategic review following AnaCap’s purchase of both platforms last year – learn more on this from CEO Patrick Mill over on page 78.

“Since the acquisition of the Amber, Wealthtime and Novia platforms by AnaCap, our business has undergone a transformation, building on the strong foundations that were already in place across the Group,” says Patrick. “We have been preparing the ground to position the Group for what we believe is a third era for platforms, differentiating on true digitisation and deeper connectivity “These next-generation platforms will bring superior, adviser-centred technology and customisation to the market. The change the business has undergone recognises this shifting landscape and the rebrand signals our intent to be in the vanguard by enabling firms to construct their technology stack as they see fit, not as platforms dictate.”

The rebrand will come into effect in the second half of the year. www.novia-financial.co.uk

WINNER TAKES THEM ALL It’s awards season for the Bath Preservation Trust (BPT). In the past weeks, the conservation organisation scooped four different awards for its properties. At the Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards, No. 1 Royal Crescent won Gold for Small Attraction of the Year, and The Herschel Museum collected silver in the same category; then No. 1 Royal Crescent picked up a further two wins – one a Bronze for Small Attraction of the Year at the South West Tourism Awards, and, finally, History Museum of the Year at the Prestige Awards.

“We are absolutely thrilled to have had the BPT team recognised by so many different award schemes,” says Claire Dixon, director of museums for the Trust. “This is down to the hard work of every single person who helps No. 1 Royal Crescent, Herschel Museum of Astronomy, and Beckford’s Tower offer such fantastic visitor experiences. We are enormously grateful to the government’s Culture Recovery Grant as it has supported us in transforming our museums to aid our pandemic recovery.”

For more: www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk

GOOD FELLOW This month the Research Institute for the Care of Older People (RICE) has announced its first PhD student fellow and a new fellowship programme that will expand its dementia research.

The RICE Centre is an internationally recognised research and treatment centre based at the Royal United Hospital which focuses on three key areas: thinking clearly, moving well and staying strong. The RICE Centre also hosts the NHS Memory Clinic for Bath and North East Somerset.

“We are delighted to be hosting our first PhD student fellowship and that Aron will be working with us over the next three years to help us understand more about psychological distress among dementia patients,” says Tomas Welsh, medical director of The RICE Centre. “This is the beginning of a growing fellowship scheme allowing the charity to develop knowledge to help us improve care and support for those affected by dementia and other conditions of older age.”

For more: www.rice.org.uk

Melissa Hillier, Tom Welsh, and new PhD student fellow Aron Jarvis, at The RICE Centre in Bath

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

BATHWORKS

“FINANCIAL SERVICES NEEDS TO STOP LOOKING SO MUCH LIKE ME” undergone recognises this shifting landscape and the rebrand signals our intent to be in the vanguard of nextgeneration platforms.

What will this ‘third era’ look like?

We’re investing heavily in a different technology model which will enable financial adviser firms to construct their technology stack as they see fit, not as investment platforms dictate – which is how the investment platform market has operated until now.

BIZ Q&A

P

Patrick Mill

Novia’s new CEO is taking the company into a new era

atrick Mill is chief executive officer (CEO) for both of the AnaCap Group’s investment platforms – Novia and Salisbury-based Wealthtime (where he was CEO prior), and its Discretionary Fund Management business (DFM), Copia, based in London.

Hello Patrick, first things first, what does being the chief executive of Novia mean to you?

It means that the buck ultimately stops with me for how the businesses are run. I make sure that we do right by our customers, right by the financial advisers who serve them, and right by our colleagues. Core to that is leading by example and modelling the values and behaviours I believe make for a fully inclusive, thriving, profitable business.

What are the effects of this approach for clients and staff?

It that means we will continue to attract and retain customers because of our great service and we will

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

attract and retain exceptional people to work here – talent that is truly representative of the communities in Bath, Salisbury and London.

In what ways does the company engage with the community?

We set up the Novia Foundation to support projects and initiatives for the benefit of people in and around the city of Bath. The Foundation supports charitable organisations, individuals and volunteering activities across many walks of life. In addition, we sponsor Bath Rugby, the Bath Boules fundraiser, and the Bath Life Awards.

Not quite in the same league as the activities outlined above, however on taking up the CEO role at Novia, I moved to the city and I intend to be an active participant in all it has to offer!

Other than life in Bath… what attracted you to Novia?

Novia has already scaled great heights in its sector. However, it wasn’t its successes to-date that attracted me.

What really drew me to Novia is the latent potential the business has to be in the vanguard of next-generation platform development in the UK. My executive team is looking to unleash that potential and as a group we will

be bringing superior, financial advisercentred technology and customisation to the market.

You’ve announced the first big change – the name.

The rebrand to Wealthtime, which will come into effect in the second half of the year, marks a new era for both of our investment platforms. Since being acquired by private equity firm AnaCap, our business has undergone a transformation.

Why Wealthtime?

Following extensive market research on our two existing brands – Novia and Wealthtime – the brand experts advised us that Wealthtime better reflected what we actually do as a business and shows the direction in which we’re taking the business. So, we unified the two services under refreshed Wealthtime branding.

What other changes are coming with the rebrand?

We have been preparing the ground to position the business for what we believe is a third era for investment platforms, differentiating on true digitisation and deeper connectivity.

The change the business has

Where else would you like to see the industry progress?

The homogeneity of our sector.

Financial services needs to stop looking so much like me: middle-aged, heterosexual, white, and male. The lack of diversity is depriving our sector of talent, of innovative thinking, of perspective, of true representation of our customers. It should not be beyond our abilities to support whatever is needed to make sure financial services is inclusive and actively supportive of diversity across socio-economic background, education, ethnicity, gender, neurodivergence, disability, sexual orientation, and religion.

In what ways is Novia tackling these issues?

We want to take action to start to chip away at that homogeneity so that the business and our customers can start to benefit from what broad diversity has been proven to bring. It’s about listening and acting on what we’ve heard but also providing the best environment for everyone to thrive.

We’ve a long way to go yet, but I know my exec team is 100 per cent behind me in being vocal and proactive allies.

The future sounds bright. But what’s one piece of money advice we can implement today?

Get professional financial advice! Good advisers are worth every single penny of their fee.

For more: Novia Financial plc, Cambridge House, Henry Street, Bath; www.novia-financial.co.uk

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BATHWORKS

Neil Edwards and Fang-Yu Lin, co-owners of Sugarcane Studio

© SOUL MEDIA

“WE CARE ABOUT EVERY CUSTOMER THAT COMES THROUGH OUR DOOR”

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2022 How making something a little different won SUGARCANE STUDIO a Bath Life Award

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CAFÉ WINNER he little Asianinspired patisserie off Pulteney Bridge is filled with beautiful sweet treats crafted by co-owner Fang-Yu Lin and infused with flavours like matcha and yuzu. Teas are imported from Taiwan and Japan – you can’t beat a matcha or hojicha latte from Sugarcane – and they sell a selection of exquisite homewares and artworks, too.

Well done! What was it like to hear you’d won an Award?

We were extremely surprised when our name was announced – and actually, the other people on our table reacted before us!

Any reflections on the evening?

It’s great to see so many people enjoying the night, and to see so much support for Ukraine. The

whole event was really glamorous and we met some lovely people there. We certainly enjoyed a great party.

What would you say it is about Surgarcane Studio that grabbed the judges’ attention?

All the finalists this year were really diverse and they all stand out, but I think, for us, our products are something that you don’t really find anywhere else in Bath.

Where do you keep the Award?

We keep it in the shop, as we can’t stop sharing this joy with our customers and friends.

Was there a moment when you realised you were on the right track with the business?

It was during one of the lockdowns when we started our delivery service and received so many orders from people sending treats to their loved ones – it made us realise that everyone has an important part to

play to keep everything going, even if it is making patisserie.

How have recent years been?

We’ve been working so hard throughout the pandemic, and thankfully we’ve also had the good fortune to have won some awards for our products. I think that after the pandemic, people have come to appreciate independent business more than ever. We always care about local charities and have tried to work with them in the past few years. Most importantly, I think our shop isn’t just a cake shop, we care about every customer that comes through our door and it feels like a kind of community we’ve built with our shop.

What do you really love about running Sugarcane Studio?

Seeing the smiles on our customers’ faces when they really like our cakes, and I love being part of the Bathwick community – there is a nice group of local businesses

around Pulteney Bridge who are all really supportive of each other.

But the best reward is seeing people coming back to our shop week after week, so we know we are making the right things.

What’s the best part about working in Bath and being part of the local business community?

Aside from being one of the most beautiful cities in the country, Bath is a super welcoming place and people here value the local businesses enormously. People are keen to try new things and support each other here.

What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever been given?

Just carry on – don’t look at the ups and downs in one day, but focus on the long term. Appreciate all the good comments you hear – and for the bad ones, listen and learn, but don’t let them get to you.

What’s something not everybody knows about Sugarcane Studio?

All of the music we play in our shop is by Taiwanese musicians, old and new. We also have a big illustration of Taipei, the capital city of Taiwan, by an artist based in Taiwan – who is in fact originally from Bath.

For more: Sugarcane Studio, 1 Grove Street, Bathwick, Bath; www.sugarcanestudio.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 81

SPONSORED CONTENT

THE BUSINESS FOR GOOD SERIES STORM CEO and co-founder Dave Kelly on why he decided to branch out from tech and plant his own forest

“WITHIN A MONTH WE HAD RAISED £250,000 AND WERE ON OUR WAY TO BUYING LAND IN BRISTOL AND PLANTING 10,000 TREES” Dave Kelly Founder of Co-forest

O

ne of the things that attracted to me to study Business Administration at Bath’s School of Management was the breadth of opportunities. You learn about finance, economics, HR, marketing – the whole lot.

What really impressed me about Bath was the level of integration with industry, which enables you to make connections not just with your peers, but also within the business community. Even now that I’m an alumnus, the School still invites me to events such as guest lectures, and I love that I’m asked to chip in and speak to students, too. As a graduate, you know how valuable a network can be because you’ve experienced it firsthand, so it’s a no-brainer to give back to the University in some way.

In 2009 I co-founded Storm Consultancy with Adam Pope, who also studied at Bath.

Storm is an award-winning digital technology

agency based here in the city. Over the years, the business has grown from a team of two people to being an organisation with a sevenfigure revenue.

On Storm’s 10th birthday, we announced we were creating a forest to offset our carbon legacy. Co-forest was inspired by my eldest daughter, who was asking what we can do to help combat climate change. With a healthy dose of naive optimism, we decided to set an example and plant our own forest.

Immediately, our clients wanted to get involved and within a month we had raised £250,000 and were on our way to buying land in Bristol and planting 10,000 trees.

Hundreds of volunteers gave 4,000 hours of their time to make it possible, which shows what can be achieved by coming together.

Co-forest will be a lasting reminder of that. In the future, I hope my kids and grandkids will go for walks around there and think that their

father, grandfather (or great-grandfather!) was involved in creating something worthwhile.

For me, ambition is essentially your end point, your dream – but it’s meaningless unless you have the drive and desire to make it happen.

Are you a graduate of the School of Management with a story to share? Connect with us: alumni@management.bath.ac.uk

#THINKAMBITIOUS www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 83

SPONSORED CONTENT

WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO MY ESTATE IF I MAKE NO WILL? Local legal expert HELEN STARKIE explains…

T

he laws of intestacy will apply.

They are not as straightforward as you may imagine!

If you leave a spouse or civil partner:

● If there are no other relatives then your spouse or civil partner will take the whole of your residuary estate outright (on the face of it a good thing – but not necessarily. The result could be a significantly increased Inheritance Tax bill when your ‘other half’ dies – and/or leave all your joint assets available for means testing and use should he or she need care fees at any stage). ● If you do have children then your spouse or civil partner will take your personal belongings – car, furniture, jewellery etc. outright and a fixed sum of £250,000 (with interest calculated from the date of your death to the date of payment) and a life interest (in other words you will only be entitled to the income from it until you die) in one half of the balance of the rest of your estate.

The rest of the estate will be held on ‘statutory trusts’ for your children. Depending upon the way in which you and your spouse or civil partner own your home the £250,000 may include the value of your interest in it. This can result in some cases in the survivor having to sell the home in order to pay out the children’s entitlement. ● If you have no children but you do have a parent or parents, or failing them a brother or sister, or failing all of these any children of any brother or sister of yours who survives you, then your spouse or civil partner will take your personal chattels, a fixed sum of £450,000 (plus interest as above) and one half of the remaining residue (not just a life interest as in the scenario above). Again the £450,000 may include the value of your interest in your home, depending upon how your ownership is set up. The other half of your estate will be held on statutory trusts for the parent(s) or if none then for any brother(s) and/or sister(s) or if none of these survive you, then for their children.

If you leave no spouse or civil partner: ● If you have children then the whole of your residuary estate will be held on statutory trust for them. ● If you have no children but there are relatives then they will take in the following order (nobody being able to take if there is a qualifying person in a higher category) (i) parent(s) outright

“BEAR IN MIND THAT THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A ‘COMMON LAW’ WIFE OR HUSBAND” (ii) brother(s) and/or sister(s) ‘of the whole blood’ or if they have died their children on statutory trust (iii) brother(s) and/or sister(s) of the’ half blood’ or if they have died, their children on statutory trusts (iv) grandparent(s) on statutory trusts (v) uncle(s) and/or aunt(s) of the whole blood, or if they have died, their children on statutory trusts (vi) uncle(s) and/or aunt(s) of the half blood or if they have died, their children on statutory trusts.

None of these can take their interest in your residuary estate until they have reached their eighteenth birthday.

If you have no spouse, civil partner no issue and no relative falling into any of the categories listed above then your entire residuary estate will pass to the Crown or the Duchy of Lancaster or the Duke of Cornwall.

Bear in mind that there is no such thing as a ‘common law’ wife or husband – these laws only apply to formal unions. Common law partners have no entitlement at all under them.

As you see, the position is not simple. And

these are just the absolute basics. The position is made more complex still by other rules and definitions (the definition of ‘statutory trust’, for example) which relate to inheritance, the details of which are too long to include here (but some of which you can find on our website).

Of course there is a moral here. You can avoid all the problems associated with these laws by making a properly prepared Will. An appropriately qualified and experienced solicitor will ensure that you protect your assets for those whom you want to benefit and pay only as much Inheritance Tax as is absolutely necessary – often none at all. ■

Helen Starkie Solicitor 5 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2PH 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 85

PROPERTY P L A C E S T O L I V E , W O R K A N D P L AY

FROM LEFT: The home is decorated superbly; the Empire

is a Grade II building; the two-bed two-bathroomed flat is on the market with Fine & Country Bath for £525,000; beautiful views towards Parade Gardens

Residential

EMPIRE STATE OF MIND A stylish two-bedroom apartment in the Empire on Grand Parade is up for sale Housed in the Grade II listed building in the centre of Bath, a stunning-two bedroom, two-bathroom apartment with a 38ft private balcony has come onto the market with Fine & Country Bath for £525,000. But with this superbly decorated and high-spec home, you’re not just buying a beautiful property, but also a way of life, as the current owner explains.

“There is a brilliant social aspect to living in the Empire as well. Every Monday there is a coffee morning for the residents, there are some dinners throughout the year and a film club, and in the basement there is a snooker room, a gym and a craft room.

At Christmas pupils of King Edward’s

come and sing carols for us and we have a superb Christmas dinner as well. However, everyone has their own space, so you don’t have to get involved if you don’t want to.

“The Empire is in an excellent location in Orange Grove between Bath Abbey and Pulteney Bridge. It is brilliant to live right in the heart of Bath, and it is a flat walk to Waitrose and all the amazing restaurants, shops and bars of Bath, as well as the galleries, museums and theatres. The train station is also an easy walk, with trains to London currently taking 90 minutes. I will really miss this great apartment and all it has to offer.”

For more: www.fineandcountry.com

sbsdesignandbuild.com 01225 874676 info@sbsdesignandbuild.com

PROPERTY NEWS Fundraising

CRANE GANG Care workers at Midford Manor, the new care home being built on Frome Road, recently climbed its 80ft crane in aid of Dorothy House.

Despite their fear of heights, general manager, Carol Britton and commissioning manager, Jenny Mann raised £615 for the hospice, which provides palliative and endof-life care.

Carol says, “As the wind got up and I felt the ladder wobble I really didn’t know if I could do it. But fighting back my nerves I got to the top with the sheer determination of not wanting to let anyone down.”

For more: www.hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk

Carter Jonas are finding Bath properties like this Eagle House home are much in demand

Care workers Carol Britton and Jenny Mann scaled the Midford Manor crane for charity

Ace Energy will help out households signed up to the Homes For Ukraine scheme

Homes For Ukraine

GOOD ENERGY When Alan Seviour, owner of the Bath-based plumbing and heating company Ace Energy, became aware that a household needed a number of home improvements before it can take in any Ukrainian refugees, he decided to help out.

He says, “We have been told by our customers who have registered to help house Ukrainian refugees that amongst other measures they will require a gas-safety certificate for their gas appliances. This is usually only required by landlords renting out their properties and typically costs around £120.

“Whilst everyone will understand the importance of making the host home safe, it can become an obstacle for many who are already stretching their circumstances to welcome refugees. So to help, we have partnered with BANES to offer gas-safety certificates free of charge to those who have signed up for Homes For Ukraine scheme.”

For more: www.aceenergy.co.uk

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

ON THE UP David Mackenzie, partner

and head of residential at Carter Jonas in Bath, on the rising house prices in Bath “It has been recently announced that house prices in Bath are rising quicker than any other city in the UK. The average asking price for a home in Bath has jumped by 15 per cent over the past year according to Rightmove, meaning the average asking price in the city has risen to £558,000. This is a significant increase of almost £75,000 when compared with this time a year ago.

Similarly to the rest of the country, there is a very high demand for properties but minimal stock, but as we’re seeing a huge amount of prospective clients coming to Bath from London, this is what is driving up prices. As their properties in London have sold for a high amount, this demographic of buyer has more to spend and this is what is ultimately bringing house prices in Bath in line with the capital.

If a property is priced correctly, we usually see at least five different offers per property, which results in fierce competition and buyers reaching their maximum budgets.

Over the last year, we have seen most of our properties sell for between three and five per cent over the guide price.

Buyers from London and all over the UK are attracted to Bath because it is a beautiful city with character that perfectly encapsulates work, rest and play. It is highly accessible and provides excellent schooling – for example, most buyers who are young families are particularly interested in the Royal High School for girls on the north side of the river and King Edward’s School, Monkton Combe School and The Paragon School on the south side. In addition, the most popular type of property on the market are always good quality family houses, or unlisted properties in desirable locations for Grand Designs-style renovations.

We also see many buyers interested in Bath who are moving back to the UK after spending time abroad. For them, the city’s historic and English charm is what is most attractive after being away.”

For more: www.carterjonas.co.uk

Hi, my name is Rosie Marlow. Let me introduce myself.

I am an independent personal estate agent. Bath has always been my home and I have been successfully selling property in and around the city for 21 years.

I offer a personal estate agency service because estate agency is never a one size fits all. My personal service is tailored to meet your individual needs and requirements.

Being a personal estate agent means I am not tied to office hours, so I can arrange valuations, viewings and open house days whenever it is convenient for you.

I have a great passion for delivering outstanding customer service and pride myself on how I look after my clients on their journey from valuation through to completion. I will always be your one point of contact.

Rosie made moving house as least stressful as possible. Her constant energy, enthusiasm and positivity is infectious. She helped us to find just the right buyers and gave valuable advice about our new home too.

I cant rate her highly enough.

– J Prothero

Thank you to our keynote speakers Lucian Cook and Jennet Siebrits for their brilliant insights. Thank you also to all of our Sponsors: to Action Net Zero, Futureground, GA Energy and Interaction.

TOP ROW: Basil

Demeroutis (FORE Partnership), Bianca Laura Latini (Buro Happold), Cerys Williams (Sero Homes), Chad Griffiths (Principality), Chris Ambrose (Coutts); MIDDLE ROW: Helen Rumford (GA Energy), Lucinda Mitchell, First Base (Soapworks), Mike Borne (Interaction), Nick Fairham (BDP), Nick Hodges, (Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios); BOTTOM ROW: Nick James (Futureground), Pam Barbato (Action Net Zero), Pepper Barney (BiBO), Sam Goss (Barefoot Architects), Simon Peacock (JLL)

SP E CI A L RE PO R T SUSTAINABILITY AND PROPERTY

Property Symposium The recent conference saw property experts and professionals explore the rapidly-rising importance of sustainability

W

hat sort of a world do we wish to create in terms of sustainability in property? How does legislation and changing customer concerns affect property – both for commercial and residential?

And what are some best practice examples to stimulate and inspire us? All these questions were up for vigorous debate during the recent Property Symposium event, hosted

by Greg Ingham, chief executive of MediaClash, our magazine’s publisher. The conference featured keynotes, panel discussions and networking sessions and had a stellar cast of contributors, from regional operators to some of the world’s biggest real estate companies. Here are insights from the discussions…

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

INSIGHTS FROM LUCIAN COOK, HEADS OF SAVILLS’ RESIDENTIAL RESEARCH TEAM Lucian reported on the scale of the sustainability challenge for the residential property sector and discussed how hitting net zero might be achieved.

“There has been a significant reduction in carbon emissions since the mid to late 2000s, but residential is

Lucian Cook

the outlier,” said Lucian.

His analysis showed that in the UK residential is responsible for 68.1 million tonnes of carbon emissions each year, a sizeable 20 per cent of the total percentage of carbon emissions.

Improvements have been made, with new properties being brought to the market but there is still a major legacy problem with older houses, specifically because 86 per cent of older households use gas as their heat source.

How can this situation be changed?

“There is a three-pronged approach. You need to tackle energy usage, decarbonising heating sources (getting away from the gas boiler), and improving energy efficiency.

“We need to increase the investment of energy efficiency in our homes by 700 per cent.

“It’s important to note, there is no single solution to this. Looking at every individual measure – the most

recommended improvements range from simple, low-cost interventions for pre-war property houses like insulating hot water cylinders (£23) to more expensive changes like having bigger solid wall insulation (£9000).”

“If you were to implement all these suggestions from the EPC across the nation it would come to a staggering £330bn.”

In terms of policy changes that may be implemented, Lucian outlined a number of options: increasing taxes for energy is highly political and looks like an unlikely choice for now, grants and green finances can only go so far given the financial challenges, and mandatory EPC standards at point of sale are probably too draconian a choice for the government. One option that looked probable, concluded Lucian, is a phasing out of the gas boiler, through various means.

PROPERTY

LIVE PANEL SESSION ON FINANCE: SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS with Basil Demeroutis (FORE Partnership), Cerys Williams (Sero Homes), Chad Griffiths (Principality) and Chris Ambrose (Coutts) The live panel session looked at the impact of sustainability on property financing: how can property developers and financial lenders ‘afford’ looming sustainable costs on new buildings?

Cerys Williams touched on the positive impact that increased EPC ratings are having on property prices.

Her research showed that if a property had increased by two EPC bands, this resulted in an increase in the house value by 12 per cent, while an increase in three EPC bands meant an increase of over 19 per cent. All good news for the property developers and a great incentive for them to build green.

But what about for the individual?

How can they afford to buy green properties? The panellists discussed that with rapid raising costs of energy bills in the UK, the cost of living sustainably was looking more appealing to the general public.

Basil reported that in New York new laws have come into play whereby landlords are being taxed if they don’t improve the energy performance of their building.

“We can’t continue to buy and consume carbon with impunity,” said Basil.

“Things like the introduction of carbon tax in the US are to be applauded.”

Chris reported that Coutts currently has an “encouragement rather than punishment” relationship with their clients; instead of introducing taxes they have chosen to offer schemes like green mortgages and free rebate so that people can understand the financial benefits of being green.

Chad added that at Principality they also offered similar projects to encourage clients to go green; through their green development scheme – whereby they lend more and reduce their fees – they help clients with increased sustainability-related fees.

LIVE PANEL SESSION ON RETROFITTING: LEGISLATION, RESPONSIBILITIES with Helen Rumford (GA Energy), Sam Goss (Barefoot Architects) and Simon Peacock (JLL) This session focused on the impact of legislation on property, specifically around retrofitting and recasting older properties for future realities.

The panel discussed the complexities and uncertainties surrounding sustainability – and how, while there is enthusiasm from many quarters, not everything is in place to make the changes that need to be made.

“Sustainable design necessitates things which look different,” said Sam. “They might need different materials which aren’t necessarily in keeping with the surrounding context.

There is a hesitation for property developers and planners to accept that. This disruptive change to the retro fit world is not being kept up with by planning legislation – we’re seeing a wave that’s ahead of the government curve. It is causing us issues.”

So, if there are changes that need to be made with legislation, what should they be?

“A comprehensive retro fit strategy which is all encompassing,” said Sam. “The government should make rules that EPC ratings on houses should have a bare minimum of A or B to make a sale.”

Simon added that one of the issues facing the retro fit work is the sheer volume of work that needs to be done set against the shortage of contractors available at the moment. Within the context of the government’s aim for buildings to have an A, B or C rating by 2030, he cited that 86 per cent of offices in Bristol would have to be given an uplift the next eight years.

“There’s a lot of work to be done,” he concluded.

Helen added that because of this shortage of contractors, it is important for businesses to start thinking about how they might need to renovate their office building now so that we’re not all trying to do it at the same time.

INSIGHTS FROM JENNET SIEBRITS, HEAD OF UK RESEARCH AT CBRE Jennet reported on the sustainable issues for commercial real estate, identifying trends, analysing the market, and providing insight and ideas.

Jennet Siebrits

She reported that rocketing energy prices have been a key factor in making companies sit up and look to make changes in how they manage their properties in a more sustainable way.

The UK target is to reduce greenhouse gas from by 68 per cent by 2030, from its 2019 levels, and to achieve net zero by 2050.

Currently around 40 per cent of CO2 emissions come from building environments – within that number commercial accounts for 20 per cent, residential 70.

In keeping with The Paris Agreement, Jennet said that commercial property has to reduce CO2 between 2022 and 2050 by a staggering 94 per cent. The main sustainability issues surrounding commercial property are a need for a deep and wider strategic coverage of sustainable issues, tightening regulation, a need to better understand the ‘green premium’, and understanding what the right path to net zero is.

She added that there’s an even more immediate issue than sustainability for many commercial property landlords and tenants: occupancy post-pandemic and WFH. FT reported recently that return has stalled, at maybe as low as 25 per cent, definitely well below prepandemic levels.

LIVE PANEL SESSION ON VISIONARIES: THE NEW BUILT ENVIRONMENT with Mike Borne (Interaction), Nick Fairham (BDP), Nick Hodges (Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios) and Pepper Barney (BiBO Studio) The session began with the panel discussing how they encourage clients to get on board when it comes to creating a green property.

Nick said that it’s about taking clients on a journey with you. He explained that with sustainability, it’s not just about materials and carbon, it’s about the bigger picture – how sustainability impacts health and wellbeing and issues around biodiversity.

By looking at the context, you can tap into what the clients’ ambitions might be.

“WE’RE SEEING A WAVE THAT’S AHEAD OF THE GOVERNMENT CURVE”

LOOK OUT FOR THE PROPERTY AWARDS 2022!

The Property Awards are all returning to Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter later this year.

21 October Exeter Property Awards; www.exeterpropertyawards.com 4 November Bath Property Awards; www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk 18 November Cardiff Property Awards; www.cardiffpropertyawards.co.uk 25 November Bristol Property Awards; www.bristolpropertyawards.co.uk

Pepper chatted about the emphasis on regulations points. She said that with the retro fit movement, and thinking about how to decarbonise properties in general, they’re addressing the minutiae of the existing housing stock – in short, how this is affecting individuals and their budgets.

Nick Fairham finished by adding that while sustainability has its challenges it also drives innovation and creativity.

“It allows us to explore new ideas,” he said.

LIVE EXPERT PANEL SESSION SUMMARISING TODAY’S EVENT with Bianca Laura Latini (Buro Happold), Jennet Siebrits (CBRE), Nick James (Futureground) and Pam Barbato (Action Net Zero) The panel discussed some of the themes raised during the property symposium.

“The key reflection for me is thinking about the scale and pace of change that is needed – from an industry that’s arguably not good at change,” said Nick James.

“There are lots of positive things we can be doing, we’re not ‘shopping’ for technical fixes, it’s more than that. It’s a systemic change that is needed which will present both challenges and opportunity.”

Fancy watching the whole Property Symposium? Search for “Property Symposium” on YouTube. For more news on our events, head to www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 91

PROPERTY

93 SYDNEY PLACE Matilda Walton tours an apartment fit for royalty

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

A

property worthy of a queen – literally.

93 Sydney Place hosted Queen Charlotte, consort to George III when she paid a visit to the city in 1817 to ‘take in the waters’. Now a rare and beautifully restored first floor apartment, it is believed to have been used as the ballroom throughout her stay. From the imposing double doors at the entrance hall to the tall ceilings adorned with intricate cornices, you can still catch glimpses of its former life.

Just try it: channel Golda Rosheuvel’s commanding and bold imagining of the Queen in Bridgerton as you sweep through the Regency rooms, and inject a sense of power, glamour and scandal worthy of Lady Whistledown’s pages back into the place.

From the golden door and cupboard handles to the fabulous bespoke chandeliers designed for the property by the current owner, the apartment oozes luxury.

Every aspect from cornice to ceiling rose – believed to be original – have been painstakingly restored. It is, quite simply, immaculate.

There is something particularly special about the doorways in this apartment – every single one has a grandeur that makes it feel as if each person should

be announced as they walk through, as if a Georgian at a high society ball. From the assertive points of the Doric porch to the sweeping curves of the entrance to the drawing room and the 10ft wedding doors into the bedroom, each gives the sense of stepping away from the world – and into the waiting arms of luxury. And, when left thrown open, the bedroom doors offer a satisfying and dramatic front-to-back view of the apartment in its entirety.

For an apartment, it is spoiled for outside space, with a balcony that runs the width of the drawing room enjoying views across Sydney Gardens opposite, and there is live planning permission to restore a former balcony across the rear first floor, looking out across St Mary the Virgin Church, Bathwick. At the front of the apartment is perhaps its best feature, the breathtaking and envy-inspiring first floor conservatory sun room – a rare feature that lends the entire property a distinguished air from others on the impressive street.

It is the perfect spot to enjoy a morning cup of coffee, or even an evening glass of something bubbly while passers-by gaze up at what they wish they had.

The bespoke and faultlessly contemporary walnut kitchen with marble worktop has been designed with a keen eye for the proportion of the space – a must in

Georgian homes – and mirrors the curvature of the room. The entire effect is one of high impact simplicity, and one that elevates the entire space.

It’s a suitably stylish Grade II two-bedroom home in a location that was once considered the centre of fashionable life – it was the street Jane Austen called home during her time in the city. In this gorgeous apartment, with the right owner, it can be so again.

HOUSE NUMBERS Bedrooms

2

Sq ft

1,821

Price

£1.15m

For more: Savills; Edgar House, 17 George Street, Bath; www.savills.co.uk

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

• Domestic and commercial roofing specialists • Covering Bath, Bristol and the South West • Trading since 1985 Tel: 01225 421499 Email: mail@youngsroofing.co.uk www.youngsroofingbath.co.uk Braysdown Lodge, Woodborough, Peasedown St John, Bath BA2 8LN

SPONSORED CONTENT

FOR THE HOME Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for Spring

NEXUS OF BATH

WOOLF INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN create unique, client-focused contemporary

MENDIP FIREPLACES BATH

is a Bath based family business specialising in painting and decorating, plastering, tiling, sash window restoration and other property restoration. Nexus have built a reputation for the highest standards of workmanship with experience across a range of projects from listed buildings through to new builds, with a complete commitment to customer service and health and safety Tel: 01225 300414; www.nexusofbath.co.uk

and traditional interiors, valued for their individual, beautifully tailored characterful design. With 25 years of expertise delivering space planning, detailed design, procurement, art curation and project management. An award-winning practice with studios in Bath & London, WOOLF are accredited designers of historic, period, listed houses and hotels. Tel 01225 445670; woolfinterior.com

Bath’s leading fireplace, wood burner, gas fire, chimney and flue specialist. From classic to contemporary, concept to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include Chesney’s, Barbas Belfires, Hwam, Stuv and Jetmaster. Get in touch or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7HD; info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk, Tel: 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

CLAIR STRONG INTERIOR DESIGN

Clair Strong Interior Design is a boutique, creative company based in Bath, providing a wide range of services for both residential and commercial clients. Her portfolio of projects includes the design, project coordination and sourcing for some of Bath’s most beautiful residences, as well as hotels, sports clubs, offices and other commercial venues. Contact Clair on 07855 797311 or 01225 426905;

VIRTUOSO FLOORING

JENNIFER MOSSE DESIGN STUDIO

www.clairstrong.co.uk

Offering stylish, innovative flooring solutions to meet the needs of the savvy Bath homeowner. Virtuoso employ the largest team of experienced fitters in Bath.

Their dedicated team are ready to turn your dream floor into a reality. Call now for a free consultation or visit their new show room on Moorland Road.

To enquire, email info@virtuosoflooring.co.uk or call 01225 972715; www.virtuosoflooring.co.uk

BATH KITCHEN COMPANY

SCHMIDT BATH

COOPERS HOME APPLIANCES

Based in the heart of Bath and specialising in bespoke, handmade kitchens, Bath Kitchen Company become personally invested in every kitchen they design and build. It’s about attention to detail at every stage – creating a beautiful space that enhances the way you live. 7-9 North Parade Buildings, Bath BA1 1NS; Tel: 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk

Providing bespoke kitchens and made-to-measure interiors across the Bath area for more than 35 years, Schmidt Bath offers luxury solutions for the home at affordable prices. With a dedicated in-house fitting team, your project will be completed to the highest standards.

Visit their showroom to see the latest ranges and more of what they can offer. 1 Park Road, Bath BA1 3EE; Tel: 01225 337276; www.schmidt-bath.com

A bespoke, tailor-made, client-focused interior design consultancy service based in Bath. Specialising in residential interior design and providing a truly personal service adapted to each client’s needs, Jennifer’s unique style blends seamlessly between period and contemporary homes. The aim is simple – to create spaces that bring joy, reflecting her clients’ lifestyles and personalities.

Tel: 07738289189; www.jennifermosse.com

Coopers Home Appliances is an independent retailer trading continuously since 1947 and specialises in kitchen appliances. We have built an enviable reputation, delivering great products with an eye for the unusual.

Value driven and customer focused. Striving to make shopping a pleasurable and human experience – a real antidote to the soulless online shopping ‘trip’.

01225 311811; www.coopershomeappliances.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 97

BATH LIVES

PHOTO BY BEATA COSGROVE; W W W.BEATACOSGROVEPHOTOGR APHY.COM

“I look back now in horror at how casual I was” Bangkok, and another time I had an attack in the middle of the jungle at night. This was before EpiPens were easily available. I look back now in horror at how casual I was.

ZOË SOMERVILLE The Bath author on the danger of peanuts, and the tumultuousness of writing Zoë Somerville, who was brought up in Norwich, is an English teacher and taught in France, Spain, Japan, America and London before moving to the West Country. She now works as a tutor, alongside writing novels, and has two teenage children.

My parents divorced when I was ten and my sister and

I lived with our dad. We are very close to our grandmother, who is now 98.

My father and brother are Morris dancers, and my brother

is also a folk musician. I spent every Wednesday as a child in pubs in the Norfolk countryside where my dad was dancing.

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

I won a competition run by the Norfolk Fire Brigade

when I was ten to publicise the need for smoke alarms. I got to go to a special ceremony and was incredibly proud. A generation later, it’s still my only award.

When I was 19, I went to America to work on a summer camp, working in the kitchen

rather than with the kids. I had to make hundreds of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches every day. There was higher jeopardy than this sounds as I have a severe peanut allergy and had to wear special gloves.

Due to my peanut allergy, I’ve had a few alarming incidents.

I once blacked out on a street in

My debut novel, The Night of the Flood, was published in September 2020 and was inspired by my

home county, Norfolk and the devastating flood of the 1950s.

My second novel, The Marsh House is set in the same austere seascape of the Norfolk coast and is about mothers, daughters and ghosts.

Writing is such a tumultuous process. It’s hugely competitive

and exposing so I’m lucky to have the support of family and some fellow writers, especially a group of writers I met online in 2020.

We all had debuts in the fi rst year of the pandemic and bonded over our experiences.

I’m reading and re-reading some dystopian fiction

such as Station Eleven and John Wyndham. I thought Station Eleven was genius and I now want to read all of Emily St John Mandel’s books. I’ve also been reading some books from Bath’s own Persephone Books as research for my third novel.

We met the Beckham family at Wellow pony trekking centre.

We were at the café pausing for a break after a cycle ride. Mr Beckham was extremely gracious and posed for a photo with my football-mad son.

I started running in my forties,

and I re-took up yoga in my forties as well. I realised that I needed to exercise for my own sanity.

The Oldfield Park Bookshop on Moorland Road is a

wonderful local bookshop run by the loveliest bookseller I’ve ever met, Harry Wainwright.

I live between Oldfield Park and Bear Flat. I particularly love

the Two Tunnels Linear Path.

I run, walk and cycle along it and in the summer we go out to Dundas Aqueduct and along the canal path.

Lyncombe Vale is a lush, beautiful, haven of peace

tucked behind the Two Tunnels and Widcombe Hill and we love strolling down into Bath from there. Lockdown meant that we discovered every inch of our local area. ■ The Marsh House by Zoë Somerville, published by Head of Zeus [Apollo Fiction] is out now in hardback, £18.99 and available to order from all Bath indie bookshops

For more: www.zoesomerville.com