Bath Life – Issue 475

ISSUE 475 / 29 JULY – 11 AUGUST 2022 / £3

GOLDEN OLDIES

THE BATH INDIES WHO’VE STAYED THE COURSE

FLYING HIGH

DINING AT PLATE AT THE BIRD, BATH ISSUE 475 / 29 JULY – 11 AUGUST 2022 / POWERS OF PERSUASION

NEW WAVE

BEAUTIFUL BEACH ACCESSORIES

OUT OF THIS WORLD THE FASCINATING STORY OF THE HERSCHEL MUSEUM

37

TEA TOTAL

THE JOY OF AFTERNOON TEA AND CAKE

AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN BATH

THE ART OF PERSUASION THE INSIDE TRACK ON FILMING THE CLASSICS IN BATH

+

S I M P L E C O W / K U B A B I E D A / TA N V I V I R M A N I

Photographer: Egle Vasi; www.eglevasi.com; Models: Angelica Baines and Tash Kings; Makeup: Chantelle Moody Instagram @chantellemoody.makeup; Styling: Eleanor Tasker and Marianne Cantelo; Location: Avellinos Italiand deli and café, 5 Cleveland Place East, London Road, Bath; www.avellinosdelibath.co.uk

EDITOR’S LETTER

fashion (page 64); BELOW: Stay in the shade with beach accessories (page 62)

N

ot every place in the UK can boast the movie star looks that Bath has. From our glowing Georgian gorgeousness to our ravishing Roman remains, and from our seductive green spaces to our quirky cobbled loveliness – we really are a stunner of a city aren’t we? It’s no wonder tourists keep coming back for more, and then there’s the visitors who come a-calling, sigh at the sight of us, give in, and make our city their home. And now of course we have the production companies who return time after time to capture Bath’s beauty on film. The latest flirtation has been the much-talked about Netflix adaptation of Jane Austen’s Persuasion starring Dakota Johnson, as seen on our cover. Turn to page 10 for a fascinating chat with Rachel Bowers of the Bath Film Office, who shares the inside story on the logistics of blockbuster production companies filming in Bath – from application through to road closures.

Elsewhere we celebrate the continued success of some of Bath’s oldest indies – some of whom still look good more than one hundred years on (page 68). We also pay tribute to the ancient tradition of afternoon tea, which is still going strong in Bath (page 48), and there’s a delicious visit to the very contemporary and arty restaurant The Plate at The Bird, Bath over on page 46.

All this plus, starting on page 23, is the latest from the city’s art scene; our regular foodie news feed (page 43); updates from the local property market (page 81); and over on page 73 we have inspiring interviews from our thriving business community.

Enjoy, and see you in two weeks.

© LOUIS SMITH; W W W.STUDIOWHISK.CO.UK

ABOVE: Say ciao bella to summertime

SARAH MOOLLA

Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag Instagram @bathlifemag

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 5

Issue 475 / 29 July – 11 August 2022 COVER Dakota Johnson starring in the latest Netflix adaptation, Jane Austen’s Persuasion, which was filmed at various Bath locations including the Royal Crescent

61

48

BATH ON SCREEN

12 FILMING IN BATH The process behind how Bath becomes

the star of the small and silver screen

THE ARTS

23 ARTS INTRO Intricate needleworks from the 17th century

on display at the Holburne Museum

24 WHAT’S ON Theatre, music, comedy, and art in the city 34 HERSCHEL 200 10 out-of-this-world facts about Bath’s most

famous astronomer – and his remarkable sister

39 BOOKS Three different lives, three different memoirs 40 FILM Road trips, sea shanties and volcanoes – they’re all coming

up this month at The Little Theatre

FOOD&DRINK

43 FOOD & DRINK NEWS ‘Pizzas made of meat’ coming to

a delivery app near you

44 TAKE 5 Ellie Leiper AKA The Bath Landlady of The Grapes 46 RESTAURANT REVIEW Quirk with class at The Bird, Bath 48 AFTERNOON TEA In Bath, there’s an option to suit all tastes

SHOPPING

61 SHOPPING INTRO Fringe benefits for the sunshine 62 EDITOR’S CHOICE Beach day must haves 64 FASHION Bellissima summer looks

12

BUSINESS

68 OLD INDIES Bath business leaders share the secret to their

longevity in an ever-changing city

73 BATHWORKS Local business news, views, and interviews 77 BIZ Q&A Kuba Bieda of Lime Recruit on the challenging

landscape of the hospitality industry

78 BATH LIFE AWARDS Q&A Simple Cow on how doing the right

thing won them an award

PROPERTY

81 PROPERTY LEAD A Bath architecture firm is calling for more

urban green spaces in the city

82 PROPERTY NEWS Updates from the market 84 SHOWCASE An enviable Bathwick Hill situation

© NETFLIX

DEPARTMENTS 8 11 19 20 90

SPOTLIGHT Giraffes eating ice lollies? Only at Longleat INSTAS Pink sky at night Bath’s delight FLATLINE Flats’s postcard from paradise SOCIETY Carnival returns to Bath BATH LIVES Meet musician Tim Bowness

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, Ava Callow, Marianne Cantelo, Elsie Chadwick, David Flatman, Emma Ingledew, John Mather, and Matilda Walton 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 and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash. co.uk Production designer Matt Gynn matt.gynn@mediaclash.co.uk / 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. tel: 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 Banana, carrot and willow ice lollies, mmm...

Longleat

CHILL OUT The giraffes at Longleat afari ark kept cool during the heatwave thanks to some uni uely flavoured ice lollies The refreshing banana, carrot and willow ice blocks were suspended on a chain five metres above the ground for the animals to en oy The lollies are proving to be extremely popular with the animals we tend to use ingredients we know they love already and then ust free e them overnight, says Longleat s senior warden an Turner The giraffes lapped up the willow leaves t is a bit of an operation to hoist them up to the right height, but it was definitely worth the effort For more: www.longleat.co.uk

Roman Baths

SUMMER NIGHTS

Waterstones Children’s Laureate Cressida Cowell will appear at the Wild Wonder Festival

The oman Baths will stay open until pm every night until the end of August for Torchlit ummer venings The romantic atmosphere features a pop up bar beside the Great Bath selling champagne, sparkling wine and soft drinks, and the museum and shop will remain open too ummer evenings are a great opportunity to explore the oman Baths after hours and soak up the magical atmosphere around the torchlit Great Bath, says councillor evin Guy, leader of the council Admission is free for Bath and North ast omerset residents, and you can book your free tickets on the oman Baths website There ll also be special dining packages available for evening visitors ranging from pre booking a sparkling wine in advance to a glass of fi by the Great Bath followed by a three course dinner in The ump ooms For more: www.romanbaths.co.uk

Westonbirt Arboretum

HIT THE BOOKS

The Roman Baths are staying open until 10pm every night until the end of August

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

There s a brand new children s literature festival coming to estonbirt Arboretum at the end of August The ild onder Festival was created in collaboration with Gill and John cLay of vents of onder Books are ama ing, say Gill and John They not only open the doors to new worlds, introduce young readers to new people and provide a platform to explore new ideas they are the perfect way to inspire children s imaginations and to start a lifelong love of story reating this opportunity with estonbirt Arboretum and Forestry ngland is really exciting hat a brilliant setting to let creativity with words run wild and free The festival has an exciting line up including the likes of ichael orpurgo and aterstones hildren s Laureate ressida owell, as well as story time sessions and character costume appearances by The Gruffalo and Little Nutbrown are from Guess How Much I Love You. For more: www.forestryengland.uk

SPOTLIGHT

SUNSET BEAUTIFUL Those sweltering heatwave nights served up some spectacular skies…

@bestofbath

@darren_ridgway

@travelerduygu

@bath_uk

@rui_21

@dos_dedos_bath

@ahappybathonian

@julesperry81

@wanderlust_on_wheelz

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© NETFLIX

Nikki Amuka-Bird and Dakota Johnson star in the new Netflix Jane Austen adaptation Persuasion

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

FILMING IN BATH

LOCATION,

LOCATION,

LOCATION How Bath becomes the super star of the small and silver screen

By Sarah Moolla

O

nce again our fair city is playing a leading role in a new innovative Netflix drama following on from Bridgerton in which Bath is the backdrop for much of the filming we now have Persuasion starring Dakota Johnson, Nikki AmukaBird and ichard Grant, filmed on our doorstep. And it’s not just the period classics like BBC1’s Pursuit of Love or the movie The Duchess starring Keira Knightly, modern shows are heading to the city for filming as well including ITV1’s McDonald and Dodds, and BBC1’s The Trial of Christine Keeler. ere we talk to achel Bowers, the Bath Film O ce manager, to learn more about how they arrange, manage and organise Bath’s starring role in T and movies from the application process to residents’ issues and local road closures.

“The kind of dramas e e ha l ah can bring in as much as £42,000 a day into the local economy”

How does a television or film production company go about applying to shoot in Bath?

f the filming is low key and the crew already know where they want to film, they will apply for a permit via our online application process, we then send the application off to our colleagues in highways or parks or property services, depending on the location of where they want to film, for their approval Drama filming is usually a lot more involved, and they contact us first to set up location recces. Once locations are decided they may need to apply for road closures, parking, a unit base and for street furniture to be removed. So there’s usually additional recces with the production and our council colleagues to work out what can be done.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 13

© ANDY BENNET T

© NETFLIX

FILMING IN BATH

TOP: Georgian spots like the Royal Crescent are very much in demand as a location; MIDDLE: Wonka filmed by Pulteney Weir will be released December 2023;

BOTTOM: ITV1’s McDonald and Dodds explores some of Bath’s more unusual spots

How long does the application process take?

e get both factual filming and drama filming in Bath The turnaround for factual filming is usually a few days, whereas drama filming usually takes a lot longer Persuasion took three months to set up from that first initial recce What have been some of the recent productions? And what’s in the pipeline?

The film and T industry only had a relatively short break during the first ovid lockdown between arch and August and we have been busy with various productions since then Bridgerton for Netflix, Pursuit of Love, Showtrial and The Outlaws for the BB , McDonald and Dodds for T , Alex Rider for Ama on rime, several high profile fashion photoshoots as well as lots of factual and entertainment programmes in particular BB s Money For Nothing have now filmed for several series from eynsham s ecycling entre they really like it there And look out for Wonka starring Timothe halamet which will be in cinemas December Can you have more than one production filming at a time?

t really depends on the si e of the productions and where they want to film e are mindful of the impact of large scale filming in a small city like Bath which has lots of other needs to consider residents, tourists,

“McDonald and Dodds has also shown viewers the other modern side of Bath featuring pubs, clubs, the racecourse” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 15

© NETFLIX

© NETFLIX

FILMING IN BATH

ABOVE: The film code of practice ensures crews liaise and consult with residents and businesses before shooting; RIGHT: For drama applications, the process can take up to three months; BELOW: Dramas like Bridgerton have brought a boost to the local economy

What areas are heavily in demand?

Obviously for period filming it is the iconic Georgian architecture of locations such as the Royal Crescent and the Holburne Museum that are the perfect backdrop owever, there is a scene in er ua o that will show a much less featured location – viewers will have to see if they can spot it! o al a o has also shown viewers the other, more modern side of Bath featuring pubs, clubs, the racecourse, private houses and locations out of the city centre How do you clear filming and the disruption it can cause residents and retailers?

e have a film code of practice which stipulates that any crew that are going to cause potential disruption to residents or businesses needs to consult with local residents and businesses This is in the form of letter drops, meetings with residents’ associations and traders’ associations and going door to door where needed to talk through their plans Where possible and appropriate they can provide extras including alternative parking and donations to residents associations We appreciate the support and patience we receive from residents and are grateful for their understanding The orld eritage ite

e or er lo el h our h h a a ar er e ea o a a e roa lo ure 16 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

© NETFLIX

businesses, as well as the operational demands of council services, such as waste, cleansing, street works, etc t s a balancing act as filming also brings in large amounts of revenue into the city For example, the kind of dramas we ve had filming in Bath can bring in as much as , a day into the local economy when they are filming here and then there is long term inward investment you would have to be a stranger to Bath not to have noticed the impact that r er o has had on tourism and local businesses in terms of marketing opportunities, visitor events e do sometimes have to turn down filming because of event clashes or because an area has recently had filming or events t s all about working to keep filming a sustainable option for the city long term attracts interest from all over the world and helps to promote our amazing city, but we appreciate it has implications for people living here when crews do come and film Any issues with closing the streets for traffic?

We work very closely with our highways and parking services teams to manage road closures, in terms of checking requests against existing closures in the area to minimise disruption and any roadworks and scaffolding pavement works Local tra c management companies ensure the area is safely managed and we request marshals on location to help residents and passers by Because they do such extensive consultations they know ahead of the filming day if there are likely to be particular issues for any reason, for example someone moving house or access issues, and will address those accordingly Are non-disclosure agreements signed by everyone involved?

ome productions ask us to sign NDAs, some don t en uiry as confidential regardless

e always treat any

How do you deal with passers-by taking photos and videoing on their mobiles?

roductions do usually prefer to keep their filming under wraps where possible because it can be intrusive for the actors and they’d prefer people to wait for the end product, but there’s no law preventing people from taking photographs in public spaces – providing they’re not harassing anyone or taking a photo that s indecent n or ore ah l o e ou

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

“We’d take the baby – I suggested kennels but she hadn’t had her jabs”

Flats is ma-aafu kurey, not ma-aafu kurey

Postcards from the edge

W

It’s a wish you were there kind of holiday, except for the flights ithout wanting to appear deliberately smug about things, it would feel somewhat improper not to declare to you, trusted reader, from whence I tap these words. Yes, I am sipping a piña colada in the Maldives. I am beside – but not in – our private pool, and I might or might not climb down the little wooden staircase and into the ocean once I’m done. Whether I do or do not go full manatee, I indeed look forward to the sweet, gasp-inducing relief of the vicious air conditioning as I step back into our ludicrously appointed villa.

I’m having to write out on the deck as there’s a lovely bloke indoors tidying the place up a bit. Normally I’d tell him to put his feet up and not bother, as I’m here, but we have with us our little baby and she’s torn into the

place with sachets of food and Mummy’s stolen makeup to the point whereby it looks like some sort of dirty protest has taken place.

‘Ma-aafu kurey’ is how they – now we – say sorry over here, I’ve had to learn.

Originally this holiday was planned as a two-person job. Then you-know-what hit and planet Earth paused. After a couple of forced re-bookings – each of which consisted of 1,200 emails, usually notable for being either side of bank holiday long weekends and therefore painfully slow – and a baby arriving, the dates were agreed and that was that. We’d take the baby (I suggested kennels but she hadn t had her abs , and it would all be fine And it is it s lovely But apparently the flights over weren’t so tranquil.

You see, six months after we’d agreed and booked this trip for the final, non moveable time, I got a call asking me to do some work in Australia slap bang in the middle of our long-awaited mega-trip. Without boring you senseless with the details of the gig, it was one

to which I had to say yes. Firstly, I wanted to say yes, and secondly, they might not ask a second time. I got the call and told them I had to discuss options at home. Within 12 seconds I was told to ‘absolutely do it’ by the homestead think tank, and we agreed that if we couldn’t nudge the holiday back to accommodate my work, then my girlfriend would go with her mum. Fortunately (for me) they agreed to move it one more time. hat this ended up meaning was that flew here straight from Sydney (made sense…) the day after my work finished, and my girlfriend flew here to meet me from London with the baby t ll be fine, loudly a rmed over FaceTime from an Australian wine bar, ‘she’s got you all to herself for a whole day!’ So it wasn t fine The bad stuff began with the man sitting next to my girlfriend on the first flight ‘Oh god, a baby,’ he said, with no humour in his voice. ‘I literally asked to change seats to have extra legroom, and now I really wish I hadn’t.’ He made an already self-conscious mummy feel awful before they’d even taken off ad been there, d have been tempted to re-enact that aeroplane scene from the movie Commando (Google it – you’ll get it very quickly).

A delayed take off meant both a sweaty extra hour on the runway, and a horrific scramble – with a huge suitcase and a travel buggy – to make a transfer. Add to this that the baby whined the ENTIRE way. I waited excitedly at the arrivals gate in Malé, but what I saw come through those doors was like a horror movie. God, the poor things; it was like A Nightmare on Elm Street crossed with The Exorcist.

Anyway, what’s the point of this article?

Well, probably that we WON this holiday in a ra e at a big charity event three years ago. So without again wanting to sound gruesomely self satisfied, we re basically here because of my willingness to help others. It’s effectively a charity trip t s ust a shame that I’ve spent the whole holiday so far dreading the flights home David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him o T er a a a a a a a

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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

Elfie Enden, Alice Bolito, Andrew Garret, Mirabel Williams and Alex Brian

Savannah Chiswell

Bright, bold and joyful scenes of the boiling Bath Carnival weekend

© JEREMY RICHARDS

© JAMIE BELLINGER

Emily Bray, Miranda Tasko, Emilie Harris, Alexandra Bone, Emma Tasko, Sam White, Amy Herbertson, Tasha Ryland, Sam George and Becky Watts

CARNIVAL BACK WITH A BANG

After a two-year absence, Bath Carnival returned with a bang in July with a bright spectacle of music and dance in celebration of global culture, local talent and community spirit – all achieved with the support of a legion of artists and volunteers. Bath Carnival is the city’s largest free outdoor event and arts-based community project funded by sponsors and donations. If you’d like to donate to next year’s event you can do so by visiting www.localgiving.org and searching for Bath Carnival.

Photos by Beata Cosgrove Photography;

The parade was filled with spectacular costumes

www.beatacosgrovephotography.com

The Sambistas brought the rhythm

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

Ivy, Joe, Amy and Harry Allen and Laura Robinson

Shane and Peter Cashell-Xu

Sweki Bessa, Frances Thompson and Asal Eslami

Aryan Veersamy, Molly Powers and Harriet Brehme

SILVER CELEBRATIONS

Henry Pike, Tim Naylor and Anna Hall Pamela Ellison and John Freeman

Bath Academy recently celebrated its 25th birthday with a Summer Ball at the Holburne Museum. Principal Tim Naylor gave a motivational speech thanking staff and celebrating the achievements of the Academy’s current cohort of students, which includes pupils studying from GCSE to A-level, and international students studying UFP and English Language courses. Afterwards there was a disco and a special 25th anniversary cake created by The Nest Cake Caravan.

Photos by Tracy Ellis; www.bathacademy.co.uk

Anna Hall, Tracey Ellis and Ami Davie

Emma Summers and Richard Roberts Kelly Nash and Chloe Jefferies

Richard White

Colin Blackburn, Alison Watson, Vicky Kingston and Tara Wood

CULTURE TRIP

Richard Roberts

Juice and RWK Goodman recently hosted an event at Walcot House for local HR and employment professionals. Guest speaker was Rich Roberts of enRich, an employee engagement and culture specialist and Top 100 Global Employee ngagement nfluencer, who gave an insightful talk covering topics including what he considers the three key ingredients for creating an engaging culture and how the world of work has changed.

Photos by Juice Recruitment; www.juicerecruitment.com

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

ON POINT

This loan exhibition, Raised Embroidery from the 17th Century, in the Wirth Gallery at the Holburne Museum, looks at the exquisite, intricate needlework from that era. The pieces on exhibit were sewn by young, highly skilled non-professional needlewomen from wealthy households. While most women during the 17th century were expected to be competent at needlework regardless of their social status, only a privileged few were able to afford the time and the materials to make these kind of decorative embroidered pictures.

The Raised Embroidery from the 17th Century exhibition can be seen at the Holburne Museum now until 11 September; www.holburne.org

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© IAN TURNER

WHAT’S ON 30 July – 30 August

EXHIBITIONS Until 27 August

THREE POTTERS The Beaux Arts exhibition features Lara Scobie, who makes slip-cast vessels using parian clay; Mizuyo Yamashita who draws from a range of different cultural ceramics practices including English, Japanese, Roman, and Korean; and Tom Kemp, a ceramicist who creates thrown porcelain vessels decorated with swift and decisive brushstrokes. www.beauxartsbath.co.uk

Until 29 August

MATERIAL LANDSCAPE Features new works by six artistmakers including Jack Doherty, Daniel Freyne and Nancy Fuller.

Through a dedication to process, the works explore the fluid dialogue between material and maker, form and function. www.hauserwirth.com

Until 31 August

TIN CITY: METAL POSTCARDS An exhibition inspired by the Bath

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

artist Jo Nye’s love of folk art and religious iconography, along with music and film Widcombe Social Club; www.widcombesocialclub.co.uk

Until 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

Until 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 from the book of the same name include Ossie Wearing a Fairisle Sweater, and Celia in Black, drawn in Marrakesh in 1971.

Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

Pay a visit to see Bobbin the very cool donkey at Longleat during their summer programme of activities

Until 16 October

MARY FEDDEN: SIMPLE PLEASURES Over 110 paintings and works on paper, covering the career of Mary Fedden’s (1915-2012), have been drawn from private and public collections, including Tate and the Government Art Collection.

The exhibition will shed new light on the artist’s working practices by including her easel in the installation, as well some of the ‘simple pleasure’ still life objects she found inspirational. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 30 October

YOU CHOOSE This is a community-led exhibition with the pieces selected by seven local residents, Bath Spa University fashion design students, and children from Oldfield ark Junior School. The 11 displays tell their own stories about their appreciation and interpretation of the fashion works which include historic treasures such as a 1750s

man’s worsted wool banyan and an 1881 beetle wing embroidered day dress, along with designs from Kenzo, Ossie Clark, Junya atanabe and Gareth ugh This will be the last display by the fashion Museum in its current Assembly Rooms home, before it moves to the new proposed ilsom lace Quarter. www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

Until 31 December

HATCHING THE PAST: AMERICAN DINOSAUR EXPLORERS Take a rare and exciting look at the life of dinosaurs through their eggs, nests and embryos. This remarkable hands-on exhibition at the American useum offers an astounding array of dinosaur eggs and nests collected from all over the globe, with a special focus on the importance of American fossil sites in our understanding of dinosaurs. www.americanmuseum.org

Until 31 December

HERSCHEL 200 EXHIBITION

WHAT’S ON To commemorate the bicentenary of the death of Bath-based astronomer William Herschel (1738-1822), a major exhibition at his former home on New King Street and from where Uranus was discovered, to highlight the hugely important contributions he made to our understanding of space.

Turn to page 34 to learn more about the museum, the man, and his incredible, pioneering sister Caroline. www.herschelmuseum.org.uk

THEATRE / CINEMA Until 30 July

JITNEY Tinuke Craig’s acclaimed production of August Wilson’s Jitney comes to Bath direct from London’s Old Vic. A groundbreaking modern classic exploring the fragile bond between eight men as they live, love and work in a racially segregated, post-Vietnam America. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Until 6 August

THE TEMPEST Deborah Warner has opened her inaugural season as artistic director of the Ustinov Studio with an epic new production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest, starring Nicholas Woodeson as Prospero, Dickie Beau as Ariel, and Tanvi Virmani as Miranda, who tells us her Culture Club choices over on page 28.

Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

5 August

FIRE OF LOVE atia and aurice rafft loved two things — each other and volcanoes.

For two decades, the daring French volcanologist couple roamed the planet, chasing eruptions and documenting their discoveries.

Ultimately, they left a legacy that forever enriched our knowledge of the natural world. For more Little Theatre news turn to page 40.

Little Theatre; www.picturehouses.com

12 – 23 August

TOP: The story of French volcanists is told in the Fire of Love at the Little Theatre on 5 August; MIDDLE: Phaedra and Minotaur is playing at the Ustinov 12 – 23 August; ABOVE: The Arch by Henry Moore 1963/69 can be seen as part of the current Hauser & Wirth Somerset exhibition

PHAEDRA AND MINOTAUR On the day of her wedding to Theseus, Phaedra catches sight of his young son Hippolytus. She falls instantly in love. Consumed by lust and a longing for a love she knows cannot be requited, death will be her only escape. Benjamin Britten’s cantata Phaedra was written in 1975 and was to be Britten’s last vocal work. Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

17 August – 10 September

INTO THE WOODS An imaginative and delightfully playful new production of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s Into the Woods. In this production, a young girl playing with her grandfather’s toy theatre imagines an upside-down, fairy-tale world.

A baker and his wife must set out to reverse a curse which has left them childless and hunt down four magical items to lift the spell. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

CHILDREN 16 August

BRILLIANT BEASTIES The American Museum & Gardens is hosting monthly sessions for preschoolers and their carers – with songs, stories, sharing rhymes and creative activities – all celebrating the world of the wonderful animal kingdom. www.americanmuseum.org

Until 4 September

SUMMER AT LONGLEAT From indoor beaches to a birds of prey exhibition, Longleat has a whole range of extra activities along with the safari, the maze, the adventure castle, and the gorgeous parkland. www.longleat.co.uk

MUSIC 7 August

KOLOLO Based in Bristol, Kololo are pals Josh and Zeus (guitar and keys) and Danny (beats/percussion) blending vocal harmonies and trippy production to make a trio of computerised groove and alternative pop. Catch them at the Electric Bar at 2pm for free.

Komedia Bath. www.komedia.co.uk

13 August

THE DUNG BEATLES Hailed by The British Beatles Fan lub as definitely not your average Beatles band’, the band has earned high praise for its authentic musical renditions and close-harmony vocals. Chapel Arts; www.chapelarts.org

25 August

THE BILLY JOEL SONGBOOK Acclaimed singer-songwriter and pianist Elio Pace pays homage to one of the most legendary musicians, with a thrilling live show that will transport the audience through a catalogue of Billy Joel’s hits including She’s Always a Woman, An Innocent Man, Uptown Girl, Tell Her

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

WHAT’S ON About It, and We Didn’t Start the Fire.

Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

27 August

KURT VILE & THE VIOLATORS The American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and record producer best known for his solo work and as the former lead guitarist of rock band the War on Drugs is touring to promote his ninth studio album (watch my moves).

Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

FESTIVALS Until 31 July

WOMAD This legendary weekend of embracing the joys of community, friendship, diversity and tolerance is celebrating its 40th this year.

Highlights include Fatoumata Diawara’s distinctive and powerful performance to kick things off Angelique Kidjo will be performing her show-stopping reimagining of Talking Heads’ Remain in Light plus there’s performances from award-winning wordsmith Kae Tempest, ska-legends The Selector, and a whole host of outstanding worldwide talent. www.womad.co.uk

Until 13 August

GARDEN THEATRE FESTIVAL The Three Inch Fools, The Handlebards, Peoples String Foundation and Calf2Cow are back at the Holburne Museum for another season of outdoor theatre with a programme that includes The Importance of Being Earnest, Wind in the Willows, Twelfth Night and the intriguing Much Ado About Murder.

Sip a beer under a warm sunset, relax on your rolled out blanket, at Bath’s newest open-air theatre festival. www.gardentheatrefest.co.uk

4 – 7 August

VALLEY FEST The family-friendly festival has joined up with performance art collective Arcadia this year, who will bring their spectacular metal trees and flames of fire Afterburner stage to Chew Valley Lakes. The line-up is pretty hot too with Clean Bandit, Kosheen, Faithless DJ set, Roni Size feat. Dynamite MC, the Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club, Travis, and Judge Jules. www.valleyfest.co.uk

19 August – 17 September

IF OPERA 2022 SEASON IF OPERA is back with a new brand, and a new season. Kicking off with icnic rom with The lare Teal Seven, the season continues

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

with thrilling and emotional productions of La Rondine, Rita & Il segreto di Susanna, interactive family show The Man in the Moon, Dido and Aaneas with guest conductor Christian Curnyn and the Bristol Ensemble, and Tales from Chez Bullier, featuring music by Puccini, Verdi and Lehar. www.ifopera.com

COMEDY

Until 31 July

EDINBURGH FRINGE PREVIEWS SEASON A season of new stand-up material at Komedia ahead of the world’s largest comedy festival, the Edinburgh Fringe. Visiting comics include Rosie Holt and Elf Lyons Komedia Bath. www.komedia.co.uk

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. Mind you, their Boogie Night Saturdays are pretty much the bomb as well. www.facebook.com/mandalynsbath

TOP: Arcadia’s Afterburner spectacular stage will be wowing the crowds at this year’s Valley Fest 4 – 7 August; ABOVE: This wedding dress made of 30 year old newspapers by designer Sanyukta Shrestha created as part of her 2013 collection can be viewed at the Fashion Museum’s last ever Assembly Rooms exhibition

Japanese Artist

An Exhibition of Painting and Collage 9th – 21st August, 11am – 5pm

at 44AD artspace, 4 Abbey Street, Bath BA1 1NN www.44ad.net

WHAT’S ON

CULTURE CLUB …with Tanvi Virmani

© WILSON SMITH

Tanvi plays the role of Miranda in Shakespeare’s The Tempest at Bath’s Ustinov Studio in a 14-strong cast, alongside Nicholas Woodeson as Prospero. Tanvi, who just graduated from Bristol Old Vic Theatre School this summer, was chosen for the role by renowned theatre director Deborah Warner in her inaugural production as artistic director of the Ustinov Studio.

TOP: The Three Inch Fools theatre company will be performing as part of the Garden Theatre Festival at the Holburne Museum; ABOVE: The Beaux Arts exhibition features the work of Lara Scobie who makes slip-cast vessels using parian clay

Every Friday and Saturday

KROWD KEEPERS Upstairs at The Ale House on York Street every Friday and Saturday night, some of the world’s top and most innovative magicians take the stage. The intimate 35-seat venue run by resident magician Billy Kidd promises award-winning performers who have featured on the stages of Hollywood’s Magic Castle, Pen & Tellers Fool Us and Wizard Wars among others. www.krowdkeepers.com

Every Saturday

BATH FARMER’S MARKET Between 9am and 1.30pm a whole array of foodie traders from Bath and local surrounds gather together under the Green Park roof, including Bath Soft Cheese, Janifa’s Kitchen, Seven Hills Chocolate, Botanica Studios, Pullins Bakery, and the Thoroughly Wild Meat Co. www.bathfarmersmarket.co.uk

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31 July / 28 August

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

BATH VINTAGE & ANTIQUES MARKET On the last Sunday of every month the BathVA visits Green Park Station with its wide array of vintage and anti ues offerings which include offering decorative antiques, collectables, retro, furniture, fashion, jewellery, sculpture, curiosities, gardenalia, salvage, carpentry, art, and vinyl. www.vintageandantiques.co.uk

21 August

A BELLE NASH WALK WITH WILLIAM KEELING IN BATH Join the author and former foreign correspondent of the Financial Times as William Keeling takes to the streets of Georgian Bath to tell the story of the first volume of The Gay Street Chronicles, his new book about the colourful Bath councillor Belle Nash. The Toppings book voucher of £9.99 includes admission to the event and a copy of the book. www.toppingbooks.co.uk n

© HUGO GLENDINNING

OTHER

My favourite arts place in Bath Is going to be have to the Ustinov Studio! It’s where I’ve made my professional debut so it’ll always be a place that I’ll hold very dear to me.

The last great film I saw The new Marvel film, Thor: Love and Thunder. It was written and directed by Taika Waititi who is a comic genius.

A film I could watch over and again...

Eat Pray Love starring Julia Roberts – it’s the best pick-me-up movie of all time.

A painting that means something to me My dad painted Jesse, my dog! It’s framed and hung up in our house.

My lockdown boxset That classic, Friends, of course.

The book that changed my life Humans of New York by Brandon Stanton. Some inspiring, heartbreaking and jaw-dropping true-life stories in there. It’s a book that I couldn’t put down. Can’t recommend it enough.

My desert island disc It would probably be Kirk Franklin’s Hello Fear album to keep me smiling and lift my spirits up.

The first song I remember hearing Probably the songs my granddad sung. His favourite was Danny Boy. My karaoke go-to U2’s I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking for or What’s Up? by 4 Non Blondes.

Tanvi Virmani as Miranda with Nicholas Woodeson as Prospero in The Tempest

SPONSORED CONTENT

© Claudia Zalla

© Claudia Zalla

© Claudia Zalla

BATH LUXURY STAYS ARE AIRREADY A beautiful Bath mansion, managed by AIRREADY, has been selected for Airbnb global Heritage competition

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stunning Bath house has been chosen as the UK star attraction in a global competition offered by the property giant Airbnb. The winner and chosen companions will travel 19 days through idyllic countryside by rail and stay three nights in each of Airbnb’s selected five magnificent historic homes: an English mansion, a French château, a Catalan manor, a German castle and an Italian villa.

Sophie Alcock, director of Airready, who manage the chosen Bath property says, “We are delighted that one of our glorious Bath properties has been chosen as part of this fantastic campaign. To have Bath recognised as the Heritage Tour destination in the UK by Airbnb, is testament to how popular our city has remained over hundreds of years to discerning travellers. To have a house from the Airready portfolio chosen is a privilege and it has been very rewarding to deliver this campaign in partnership with Airbnb. We are enormously grateful to the owners of this great house to offer it for this competition.”

Airready are a local Bath company, who manage a portfolio of over 50, luxurious and unique Airbnbs in the city of Bath and surrounding villages. Co-owner Paul Ralph who heads up the company logistics explains

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

how attention to detail is key to delivering a truly five-star experience to guests on every property, every time.

He says, “Airready ensures that the details are never missed – plants are watered, lightbulbs are changed, everything is triple checked. We put in luxury hotel-standard linen with fluffy towels for our guests and offer a genuine 24/7 point of contact. A lot of hard work takes place behind the scenes by our wonderful team – but it is all immensely satisfying when we get the guest feedback.”

Rebecca Kemp, co-owner of Airready says, “The quality of Airbnbs has increased significantly over the last decade, and so have guest expectations. A luxury hotel experience is now just a condition of entry into this highly competitive sector. We make sure that each and every experience is five star and the houses we are privileged enough to manage are kept in impeccable order. We are lucky enough to look after some extraordinary homes and our guests’ reviews and repeat visits are testament to the quality of the houses and the experiences we deliver.”

If you wish to find out more about how Airready could help you look after your luxury holiday home then please do call Rebecca on 07906 507228; we would be delighted to talk to you. n

The Airready offering at a glance • Fully managed luxury holiday let company with years of experience • Experts on Bath and the surrounding villages • Our owners know their holiday homes are in the very best hands • We deliver outstanding cleans, freshly ironed cotton linen, large soft towels, replenishments, 24/7 communications with guests, maintenance, rubbish removal, resolutions, optimum pricing • No one beats us on our five-star reviews across the board • Experienced management of renovations and refurbishments on properties that need an upgrade Take a look at some of our properties on our Bath Luxury Stays website www.bathluxurystays.co.uk

0796 4411247; www.airready.co.uk; Find us on social  

SPONSORED CONTENT

AIRBNB HERITAGE TOUR To shine a spotlight on the resurgence of train travel in Europe, Airbnb is partnering with Interrail, an allin-one European train Pass, on its 50th anniversary to offer six friends the opportunity to embark on an epic slow travel journey connecting remarkable historic homes across the continent.

Over 19 days, up to six friends or family members will be whisked away on the ultimate bucket list adventure, a bespoke Interrail journey with overnight stays in magnificent historic homes along the way: an English mansion, a French chateau, a Catalan manor, an Italian villa and a German castle.

THE ITINERARY First stop: 31 August 3 September, Bath, UK Second stop: 3 – 6 September, Saint-Georges-sur-Cher, France Third stop: 6 – 10 September, Sant Pere de Ribes, Spain Fourth stop: 10 - 14 September, Lucca, Italy Fifth stop: 14 – 18 September, Behren-Lübchin, Germany

Please visit www.airbnb.com/airbnbheritagetour

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 31

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WILLIAM HERSCHEL (1738 – 1822) © HERSCHEL MUSEUM OF ASTRONOMY, BATH PRESERVATION TRUST

VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY

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The Herschel Museum celebrates the life and achievements of the pioneering astronomer with a new exhibition

By John Mather 34 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

o commemorate the bicentenary of the death of Bath based astronomer William erschel , Bath Preservation Trust is hosting a ma or exhibition to highlight the achievements and contributions he made to the understanding of space, which included the discovery of the planet ranus in The exhibition Herschel 200 will take place in the very same Bath building, 19 New ing treet, where illiam and his sister Caroline Herschel, lived, worked and made several important discoveries and which is now known as the erschel useum of Astronomy. Herschel 200 runs until December this year and brings together many artefacts seen for the first time to help tell the family’s remarkable story.

Claire Dixon, director of museums for Bath Preservation Trust, which runs the erschel useum of Astronomy says, The 200th anniversary of the death of William Herschel has provided us with opportunities to develop new partnerships, working with lough useum and the ercy ommunity in Bath for the first time to connect with new audiences both in the city and beyond.” To mark the occasion, here are 10 out of this world facts telling the Herschel story.

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illiam was born in to a humble family in Hanover. His father, Isaac, was bandmaster of the Hanoverian Guards, and illiam oined him in the band as an oboist and violinist when he was 14, alongside his elder brother Jacob. When the French invaded Hanover in 1757, Isaac convinced the then year old illiam to flee and seek sanctuary in England. William arrived in London as a refugee and survived for two years copying music scores, as well as teaching and performing where he could.

about stellar theory, devouring books by astronomers James Ferguson, Robert Smith and Thomas Wright. Securing a position as the organist at the Octagon Chapel in Bath in , enabled illiam to finally make a home for himself, which in turn allowed his astronomical curiosity to flourish

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The focus of William Herschel’s curiosity about the night sky set him apart from his fellow astronomers hile others confined themselves to the solar system, William sought to explore deep space. In order to do this, he realised he needed bigger telescopes to capture more light. When he discovered the mirrors he required did not exist, William went about learning how to make his own. In 1774, only a year after purchasing his mirror making equipment, William successfully assembled his first home made telescope, and was confident enough in its uality to start his first observation ournal William would go on to make bigger and bigger telescopes, and his most successful was his foot, and his largest, was an enormous foot

“18-year-old ll a e Hanover and sought sanctuary in England”

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© WELLCOME LIBR ARY, LONDON

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T

ARTS

William was also an aspiring composer.

Realising that London was already full of musicians and composers, he took up a position in charge of a small military band in Richmond, Yorkshire. It was a part time post, and allowed William the chance to compose and work as a freelance musician across the north of England. But it was a lonely existence, and illiam suffered from homesickness During his long night time ourneys on horseback, illiam took up a hobby his father had introduced him to as a child, studying the stars. He also read avidly

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illiam decided his first ma or pro ect would be to catalogue double stars. It was during this pro ect, on arch , that he came across ‘a curious either nebulous star or perhaps a comet’. It would take many more observations, and the review of astronomers across urope, to finally identify this ob ect as the planet Uranus, or ‘Georgium Sidus’ as illiam first named it, after ing George

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

ARTS

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William’s sister Caroline originally trained as his observing assistant and then became an equal partner. William would call out detailed descriptions of what he saw through his telescope and Caroline would meticulously note down all the data, consulting time pieces and star catalogues, to make the required calculations. She would also copy out and prepare the data for publication he was the fi rst woman to be paid as a professional astronomer.

“Caroline was the r o a o e paid as a professional astronomer” When William had to be away from home, Caroline took up the observing mantel herself, sweeping the night sky for unusual objects. She achieved great success in this, going on to discover eight comets and fourteen nebulae.

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William’s brother Alexander, also a professional musician in Bath, proved himself to be a fi ne mechanic and assisted William in making telescopes. Alexander remained in Bath when William and Caroline left, but he spent his summers with them in Slough, making the brass-work for William’s telescope business. Alexander also turned his hand to other gadgetry, creating an astronomical clock for Caroline to use during observing sessions, and mechanisms for William and Caroline to communicate with each other during these sessions.

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William and Caroline’s observing ‘sweeps’, supported by machinery made

by Alexander, were more accurate than any stellar observation that came before them.

They added 2,510 nebulae and star clusters to the approximately 100 previously catalogued

by French astronomer, Charles Messier.

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On 25 August this year, a commemorative stone will be unveiled in the garden of 19 New King Street, to not only mark the anniversary of William’s passing, but to also serve as a telescope platform. The stone will mark the very spot where erschel fi rst glimpsed Uranus on that clear March night in 1781 using his homemade telescope.

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Queen musician Dr Brian May CBE, Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, is the patron of the museum, taking over the role after the death of Sir Patrick Moore in 2012. The internationally acclaimed rock star, song writer, producer and animal rights campaigner, put his interest in astrophysics on hold as Queen became a global success, but in 2007 completed his PhD at Imperial College, London. Brian says of his role, “I’m honoured to follow in the footsteps of Sir Patrick, as Patron of the Herschel Museum. Patrick had a great affection for the museum, and think he felt an a nity for erschel himself, a man who, like Sir Patrick, devoted his whole life to science. It’s an inspiring place, giving a fi rst hand glimpse into the life of one of the world s fi nest astronomers, and a reminder that the dedication of one man can change the perception of the whole world.”

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10 6 36 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Visitors can download a translation of the display labels and detailed descriptions of nearly every exhibit in the museum in ten languages: Chinese implified, hinese Traditional, nglish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.

For more: www.herschelmuseum.org.uk

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BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

Making memories

Nic looks at three very different, but all very fascinating, memoirs

“Noah provides a commentary on the origins and philosophy behind apartheid”

M

y favourite type of memoir tends to be the opposite of the celebrity biography. For the most part I prefer tales of remarkable lives that I know nothing about when I begin reading.

I’ve been reading Chronicles of a Cairo Bookseller

by Nadia Wassef (Little, Brown, £14.99) in preparation for interviewing the author at the WOMAD festival (in an event that I hope doesn’t descend into two booksellers geeking out about the differences in stock control between England and Egypt, or similarly niche matters). assef set up her first Diwan bookshop with her sister and their close friend in 2002, in a bureaucratic and oppressive political and business climate where female-owned modern businesses were rare.

Diwan created a new benchmark for contemporary bookstores, reaching a highwater point of 16 branches. All of those shops were based on the characteristics of the first and stocked a fusion of titles in Arabic, English and other languages. Wassef explains the philosophy and purpose behind their stores and, through chapters titled to match the sections of the shop, she weaves in tales from everyday shop life, and of overcoming the challenges that retail, society and even revolution threw up.

The chapter titled ‘Cookbooks’ leads us on an unexpected exploration of Egyptian customs’ censorship procedures. Imports of Jamie Oliver’s early books might not seem likely contraband; until you consider how alarming a ledger announcing 20 copies of The Naked Chef might appear to a rigorous o cial We Need to Hang Out by Billy Baker (Simon & Schuster, £20) sees autobiography and investigative journalism merge. The author recounts being tasked with considering the phenomenon of loneliness, particularly amongst middle-aged men with few friends.

After briefly taking offence, Baker realises that, if he is brutally honest, he is perfect for the job.

He begins reaching out to old friends himself (some of whom had left the country without him having realised) whilst also talking to others experiencing a similar detachment. Though

his research first focusses on the impact of the pandemic, Baker discovers how ‘normal’ modern life makes it easy to disengage with our friends. Busyness, work-life balance, the obligations of family life and the security blanket of social media that keeps us in touch without really being in touch – all mean reconnecting properly is rarely prioritised.

With humour and entertaining frankness, Baker’s book is a great reminder to us all to keep our friendships well serviced.

And finally, a memoir of someone who is better known. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah (John Murray, £10.99) is a moving, insightful and relentlessly funny coming-of-age memoir from the South African born comedian who sells out huge venues for his live shows.

The title of his childhood story comes from the fact that in the year he was born it was still a crime for his black mother and white father to have sex. He was born into the dying years of South Africa’s apartheid system and his memoir consists of episodic childhood memories interspersed with snippets of history.

Noah provides a commentary on the origins and philosophy behind apartheid and picks apart its aims of sowing social division even beyond just skin colour.

Although the politics, prejudice and real poverty (the family resort to eating worms at one point) is deadly serious, Noah somehow keeps this book overwhelmingly buoyant. He recounts exploits and misadventures with friends, their obsession with music, clashes of culture and language within their friendship circle and various close police encounters.

The other stand-out character is Noah’s remarkable mother. An extraordinarily strong and single-minded woman who carves her own determined path in life, she is portrayed as strict but instilling clear values in her son.

The strength and warmth of their relationship shines through and is a real highlight of this third excellent memoir.

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 39

THE REEL THING EMMA INGLEDEW CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:

Joyride is an emotional Irish road trip movie starring Olivia Colman and newcomer Charlie Reid; The Little’s reDiscover season dedicated to Wim Wenders begins with his road trip trilogy Alice in the Cities; The Fisherman’s Friends are the real life, sea shanty group from Cornwall and this is the sequel to their fascinating story of self-discovery and tours abroad; Fire of Love is a compelling documentary about Katia and Maurice Krafft who explore volcanoes

From summer holiday discoveries to harrowing road trips, The Little will take you on a journey of movie magic this August Wim Wenders Retrospective: Alice in the Cities Screens from 31 July

This summer The Little is hosting a reDiscover season dedicated to Wim enders as part of the first retrospective for the prolific German filmmaker, screenwriter and author. It begins at the start of Wender’s acclaimed ‘road trip trilogy’ with Alice in the Cities (1974).

This fantastic film follows a German writer, hilip inter, who is saddled with a nine year old girl, Alice, after meeting her mother at a New ork airport The mother asks inter to mind Alice temporarily, yet it uickly becomes apparent that Alice will be his responsibility for longer than he expected.

Over the course of the film, the innocent friendship between hilip and Alice grows as they travel together through various European cities on a uest for Alice s grandmother

Fisherman’s Friends: One and All Release date 19 August

The Fisherman’s Friends are a real hit music group, known in ornwall for performing sea shanties in the ort saac harbour since n , they were discovered by BB DJ Johnnie alker when he was in ornwall on holiday and came across their homemade Ds alker s manager, an Brown, then travelled to ort saac and negotiated a

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

recording contract worth £1 million for them with niversal usic Group n this unlikely story was made into a hit film and now, three years later, comes the highly anticipated sequel.

Following a performance at Glastonbury, the group sets out on a divisive tour of outh Australia where they will trace their ancestors and embrace a new community, as well as discover their musical DNA

Joyride

Release date 29 July

Joyride is an emotional Irish road trip movie starring the incomparable Olivia oleman as the titular Joy The film follows Joy, a train wreck of a woman, who sets off on an adventure to give away her new-born baby.

Joined by a cheeky street urchin, they are two diamonds in the rough on the run. oleman is captivating as the central character, which is an emotional performance that deftly manages to be both funny and heartbreaking owever, who truly shines is newcomer harlie eid eid was cast in the film after a search involving , applicants and manages to hold his own against an acting legend.

This superb double act takes to the road in a wonderful oyride of a film that will make you laugh, make you cry, and make you want to book a visit to reland immediately

Fire of Love

Release 29 July

Fire of Love is an explosive new documentary with a true lava story at its core. It follows the relationship of two intrepid scientists atia and aurice rafft who died in a volcanic explosion doing the very thing that brought them together until the end – unravelling the mysteries of volcanoes by capturing some of nature’s most explosive imagery.

Director Sara Dosa tells their story masterfully, managing to make a documentary that is both informative and humorous he uses archival footage, some of which looks like it was taken straight from a es Anderson movie, and it s easy to tell why the film won best editing at the Sundance Film Festival. Narrated by iranda July Madeline’s Madeline , this great new film is magmanifcent

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

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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

FRESH MEAT

The brains behind the new-to-city Sam Weller’s pub, Max Halley and Ethan Davids, are launching a new foodie venture The armo hop brings iddlesbrough s finest parmos to Bath delicious concoctions of pork (or aubergine) schnitzels covered in a sumptuous layer of tomato sauce, béchamel and melted cheese – followed by delicious pizza toppings The armo hop will be available at home on well-known delivery apps, and you can order them in The Sam Weller’s too. As Max says: “Why should the people of Middlesbrough be the only ones to have pizzas made of meat?”

For more: e u he orl o

BEST IN SEASON VERITY GENCO dives into the global influences of wellcooked aubergine It is thought that the origins of the aubergine lie in India and China, from where travellers carried it to Europe and eventually on to America. It has many names around the world – brinjal, melongene, mad apple, garden egg, guinea squash, melanzane, but we know the glossy purple plant best as eggplant or aubergine. The globe aubergine is the most commonly used variety in the UK, but other types exist in jade green, lavender, orange, yellow, white and purple ebra stripes as well as different shapes offering an exotic visual at farmer’s markets.

It’s a plant that’s become so popular to prepare and eat over the years there are cookbooks solely devoted to the art of flavouring it Although this plant is suited to hotter climates, the aubergine is widely cultivated in Britain, but its season is short, it requires the greatest heat of our summer to thrive outdoors, making August the best month to enjoy locally grown aubergine.

Aubergine makes an appearance in cuisines from around the globe. Middle Eastern recipes are many, where the mild-tasting plant with its creamcoloured, sponge like flesh dotted with

INSET: Parmos are delicious meat concoctions

wrapped in cheese; BELOW: Ethan Davids and Max Halley are bringing the parmo to Bath

small, edible seeds is made the star of the show combined with spice blends like sumac, and rich, nutty tahini. Every year, I keep my eye out for the roundshaped Natoora variety, predominately grown in Sicily – they hit the shelves in Bath Waitrose and Super Stokes green grocers in Oldfield ark at this time of year irtually seedless, with a firm flesh rather than spongy, they are grown slowly, developing a dense, full flavour The meaty texture makes them ideal for grilling and frying. Advice from my Sicilian husband is not to get carried away with flavouring the Natoora by drowning it in a sauce. Simple does it, he says – slice into steaks, coat in egg and bread crumbs, shallow fry and enjoy dipped in mayonnaise, or sandwiched between fresh salad leaves and bread.

Make the most of aubergine season with me – I’ll be posting more recipe inspiration throughout the month of August over on my Instagram fortheflavour

GO WITH THE FLOW

Flow Bar Frome has launched a sister business: Flow On The Go. The mobile cocktail bar – a converted 1978 vintage Volkswagen campervan called Florence – serves up a curated cocktail list made by professional mixologists and a vibey light and sound system that makes her the perfect party centrepiece. Florence is available to book for a range of events from festivals and parties to weddings, corporate events and beyond. or ore o ar o u Flow Bar has hit the road in a coverted 1978 campervan called Florence

Verity Genco is a food stylist, cook, baker and a erer eh a ra or he a our here she creates recipes inspired by the seasons Cooking with spice blends makes aubergine the star of the show

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

TAKE 5

That’s very kind of you to say, and I love the Twitter community we have here in Bath and further afield from people who have loved this place in the past, often because they have met partners here or remember good times spent together with old friends.

What motivated you to start the account? ust wanted to Ellie and John Leiper, tell the story of owners of The Grapes the building’s restoration and get to know folks before we opened. It was important to separate out the business account from some of the challenges we faced and it also gives me an opportunity to get involved with my other passions like sustainability issues, our upcoming allotment on the new site at the end of Newbridge, and keep in touch with friends.

ELLIE LEIPER The Bath Landlady of Twitter shares what’s coming up at The Grapes this summer There’s always a buzz at The Grapes on Westgate Street.

The award-winning pub specialises in craft beers, local ciders, wines and spirits, live music – traditional folk and jazz on week nights, and vinyl DJs for the weekend.

Plus it offers a programme of events including theatre and life drawing, and bed and breakfast and meeting space.

Here Ellie tells us more...

You opened up The Grapes in 2019 after a lot of refurbishment, right?

To be honest the work is ongoing as this is a big building, but the initial work was pretty intense. We got the keys in April 2019 and worked for hundred days straight before the place was habitable and we moved in. Three weeks after that, we opened the doors and have continued improving things since.

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

How’s it going now?

We’ve opened all our bed and breakfast rooms and we’ve recently made repairs to the cellar floor using a master mason, whose first ob as an apprentice in the 80s was to hand strip all the paint from the façade of The Grapes.

It’s a nice circle as that will be one of his last obs before retiring What are some of the musttries behind the bar?

e re excited to be offering some great cocktails now. We’re only concentrating on the basics so we can build our staff s knowledge and they make a mean Margarita already, but we’ve now added in an excellent Bloody Mary, Old Fashioned, Negroni and of course a Cosmopolitan for all the hen parties that come in.

We are huge fans of your Twitter @TheBathLandlady...

“I love the Twitter community we have here in Bath” You’re big on sustainability at work too. What does that look like at The Grapes?

We were extremely fortunate to be able to find a premises with such history that had essentially been stripped back to its shell, even if it was olly hard work at the time All floors are now sound proofed and insulated, as is the roof. All our lighting is LED, and what kitchen equipment we have works on induction.

What are your other ongoing sustainability projects?

We are currently working with WECA (West of England

Combined Authority) to reduce our carbon footprint further by installing thermal curtains in the guest rooms and introducing more natural light into the flat roof above the bar. The council have recently signed off on these improvements, as well as an air source heat pump for our heating and hot water – although this will have to be a hybrid system so it can cope with the many demands of the building.

What happened to foodie pop-up Budo Ba? We’ve heard they have stopped trading at The Grapes... think Bud Ba may possibly be one of the longest serving pop-ups in the city. It was so lovely having the team here each weekend, serving exceptional food in the upstairs kitchen and living room, but both they and our BnB became victims of their own success. The space was too small for the ever-growing popularity of Bud and our guests were feeling a bit cheesed off not having the space to themselves.

Is this the end of your partnership with Budo Ba? No! Long-term plans are pretty exciting. Whereas we had a pretty informal partnership before with Bud chef David, we have now become business partners and are looking forward to taking over the old Beer Craft building on Argyle Street later on in the year to open Bath s first dedicated i akaya t s going to be so much fun.

What’s been your best moment so far?

Winning our Bath Life Award was definitely a high point which I didn’t think could be topped for quite some time, but a couple of weeks ago, we found out we are up against five other pubs in the country as finalists in the Best ity Pub category in the Great British ub Awards, so ve got my fingers crossed for that – and we’ll be taking the team up to Manchester in October for the ceremony.

For more: The Grapes, 14 Westgate Street, Bath; www.thegrapesbath.co.uk

Afternoon Tea at Henrietta Garden A hidden gem in the most peaceful of settings @The Roseate Villa Bath A quintessential English tea tradition with a few touches of modernity, Afternoon Tea at the Henrietta Garden is an unforgettable, charming experience. Enjoy a delightfully delicious tea, brimming with homemade treats.

Tuck into warm scones, selection of delicate finger sandwiches and moreish indulgent cakes, made by The Roseate Villa Bath fabulous bakers.

Served every day from 2pm – 5.30pm

Exclusive Offer: APEROL SPRITZ ON US

Use code #SUMMER when booking an Afternoon Tea Reserve Now:

Contact us: 01225 466329 | reception.trvb@roseatehotels.com |

@theroseatevillabath

THE PLATE RESTAURANT AT THE BIRD Sarah Moolla is flying high after an evening dining at the off the wall city centre bouti ue hotel

Q

uirky can often get it slightly wrong – words like ‘characterful’ and ‘intriguing’ cropping up in the restaurant experience would hint at confusion, too much background noise, and like the uncle with the ‘personality’, we might be avoiding next time. But The Bird, Bath which is a 29-bedroomed boutique city centre hotel, does quirk but with individuality, beguiling charm, and accomplished artfulness on its every surface – from the specially commissioned blue mosaic bird-themed china reception desk by artist Candace Bahouth to the treasure trove of contemporary art and vintage curios collected from across the globe and scattered all over the property and grounds.

It also manages to combine this heightened sense of playfulness with the elegant backdrop of Bath. Sat out on

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

the terrace taking in views of the Abbey and the Rec, and sipping on secret ingredient Bird cocktails that come in the cutest avian glass, and nibbling on nibbly bits – brown, meaty, marinated Kalamata olives and light aerated slices of Coombeshead sourdough, we get a gut feeling the worlds of the uplifting kitsch and a decent kitchen are going to collide quite beautifully.

Canadian chef Rhys Jackson (and yes, there is some Welsh heritage there) has just stepped up to the plate. In fact the night we visit, both he and the restaurant manager Lajos Borsos are newbies, with not even a fortnight under their belt One of the first things La os tells us is that he s working on the sta ng issues which we can see for ourselves – while the team are young and well meaning, the service is a little erratic. At one point I give up waiting, and go rummaging in the cutlery drawer for my own knife and fork. But in fairness I was very hungry and my steak

RESTAURANT

was winking at me to get on with it.

Part of the joy of Plate is the simplicity of the menu – for starters there s a choice of five smaller options my cro uettes are little flavour bombs of tangy goat s cheese with a hint of tru e, coated in light panko breadcrumbs, bedded down on smears of earthy beetroot pur e and offset with bitter pickled walnut salsa Delicious but a little dry as goat s cheese isn t the dewiest or stringiest of cheeses but nothing a tad more of the pur e couldn t have sorted out owever my companion s dense, lightly cured, sea fresh gravadlax, scattered with lemony, peppery capers, small soft cubes of mayo slicked new potatoes, and chunks of sharp pickled beetroot comes with not a single but e both agree its clean, ippy, esty flavours and contrasting textures make it one of the best cold starters ever tasted The big plates are straightforward, kid friendly options you might expect to see in a hotel restaurant but no less a deal for it Along with brioche bunned burgers, battered haddock, and chicken breast with asparagus salad, there s steak and lamb choices y medium rare sirloin steak is butter soft, deeply flavoursome and generously coated with a rich, spicy peppercorn sauce The triple cooked chips have that fluffy on the inside, deep fried crunch on the outside perfection, and bringing it all together is the cheery pop of sweet on the vine cherry tomatoes, and the meaty, umami depth of the portobello mushrooms y companion s main admittedly has the edge though her lamb rump is a rich burgundy in colour at its tender centre, with the browned outer crust crisped enough to hold the whispers of rosemary and studs of roasted garlic The accompanying confit of compressed sliced potato collapses with a happy, comforting, carby sigh, while adding texture and slivers of smoked saltiness come from the bacon lardons and the garden fresh pop of petit pois Both puddings hit all the high notes the mound of lightly whipped lemon parfait alongside a scoop of sharp lime sorbet, served with dollops of perfumed lavender gel on a biscuity crumbed base y companion s luxurious, almost toffee like, cr me br l e with a rich roasted coffee ice cream and flakes of toasted almonds is a grown up, gratifying, delight of a dessert All this certainly whets the appetite to see what owners an and hrista Taylor, who also own omewood in Freshford, will do with their recently ac uired Bishopstrow otel and pa over in arminster After our evening here, a little birdie tells us to expect great things n

“The o o compressed l e oao olla e ha ha o or ar h DINING DETAILS Plate Restaurant and Terrace at The Bird, 18-19 Pulteney Road, Bath BA2 4EZ. tel: 01225 580438; www.thebirdbath.co.uk Opening hours Monday & Tuesday: closed Wednesday – Saturday, 12pm-2.15pm, Sunday, 12.30pm-2.15pm.

Afternoon tea is every day, 3pm-4.30pm Dinner Sunday-Wednesday, 6pm–9pm, Thursday-Saturday, 6pm-9.30pm Owners Ian and Christa Taylor Chef Rhys Jackson Established 7 October 2020 Type of food Modern British Covers 170 Outdoor space The terrace has three dining domes, a cosy cabin and a lodge Prices Starters cost between: £3 - £8; mains: £18 - £26, Desserts £5 - £18 Disability access Yes via a ramp from the terrace Atmosphere Funky, informal, and fun

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

“The afternoon tea is very traditional”

The Manor House is a luxury 14th century hotel and golf club

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

HOW DO YOU TAKE YOUR TEA? AFTERNOON TEA

We’re taking ours in the afternoon, with a little something special…

By Elsie Chadwick

W

hile we’re all for upholding traditions – never be afraid to go your own way when it comes to an afternoon tea. From scones and finger sandwiches in the garden to cupcakes and cups of tea in the drawing room – it’s up to you whether you want to take in a round of golf before, upgrade to champagne, throw in a little sushi, pop to the spa after, or pack it all up picnic hamper style and eat al fresco.

Whatever your preference Bath has got you covered.

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

AFTERNOON TEA

THE ONE WITH A GOLF COURSE

The Manor House Hotel, Castle Combe, Wiltshire; www.exclusive.co.uk The Manor House is a luxury 14th century hotel and golf club in Castle Combe in iltshire, offering fairytale weddings, romantic nights away, ichelin starred dining, and a championship golf course.

Here the afternoon tea is very traditional and consists of a selection of finger sandwiches, a vanilla scone and a cheese scone, and an array of cakes including passionfruit cheesecake and a raspberry macaroon. Everything is made on site under the supervision of head pastry chef Luke oodward, and is accompanied with tea, coffee or a glass of idgeview nglish sparkling wine or Taittinger champagne It is served in one of the Manor House’s gorgeous lounges, either the drawing room with views over the lawns, or the hakespeare Lounge with views down towards the Bybrook river n the summer, you can also take tea on the terrace which offers panoramic views of the lawns, the river, and country house.

THE ONE WITH SUSHI

Robun, 4 Princes Buildings, George St, Bath; www.robun.co.uk obun specialises in a modern take on akiniku the art of grilling meat, seafood and vegetables over a traditional robata charcoal fire The menu also incorporates sushi and sashimi, tempura, gyoza and bao buns. This is all served alongside an unparalleled list of sake, Japanese whisky, and innovative house cocktails, so it s pretty obvious the afternoon tea here is going to be something pretty special.

Taking inspiration from across Japan, obun s afternoon tea swaps sandwiches for sushi and scones for bao buns, alongside standout dishes from the menu including yakiniku and sashimi sharing plates, plus sweet treats including miso cake and mochi ice cream

THE ONE WITH THE BIRDCAGE

TOP: Robun’s afternoon tea swaps sandwiches for sushi;

ABOVE: The Bird, Bath tea can be served with a Kaleidoscope G&Tea special

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The Bird, Bath, 18-19 Pulteney Road, Bath; www.thebirdbath.co.uk The Bird is a da ling bouti ue hotel with a totally fabulous atmosphere in the centre of Bath, with stunning views of Bath Abbey and is based around the corner from Bath ugby s ec ground t s colourful, with bold designs and statement artwork, resulting in a uni uely creative and lively atmosphere Turn to page for our review of The Bird s late restaurant Their afternoon teas consist of dainty finger sandwiches, sumptuous scones and mouth watering sweet treats, which they describe as not traditional but contemporary, and full of colour, uni ue flavours and a sprinkle of mischief.’

The full deal has unlimited tea or coffee, and there is always the option to add a glass of fi or the aleidoscope G Tea special made up of their very own aleidoscope gin and tonic and exclusive Jaywing tea, which is made for The Bird by amellia tea house t comes served on a tiered afternoon tea stand which also resembles a birdcage, and with bespoke made and designed crockery from hite orse ottery

THE ONE WITH LITERARY MAGIC

Woolley Grange, part of Luxury Family Hotels, Bradford on Avon; www.woolleygrangehotel.co.uk A uni ue concept for an afternoon tea and created in o cial partnership with the oald Dahl tory ompany, the atilda Afternoon Tea experience has been carefully crafted to celebrate the foodie moments from the magical book Matilda. On the menu is Newt Juice, Bruce Bogtrotter s hocolate ake, the runchem all sandwich selection, Break Time bread & butter (which is actually banana bread with thyme butter icing , Lavender s acroons made with lavender of course and lemon, and atilda iss oney s After chool ream Tea consisting of plain and raisin scones, strawberry am and clotted cream.

Available in the restaurant and al fresco on the terrace in the warmer months, which offer views across the gardens and the iltshire countryside, the tea also comes with Matilda-themed activity sheets.

THE ONE WITH A LITTLE EXTRA ME TIME

Apex City of Bath Hotel, James Street West, Bath; www.apexhotels.co.uk Enjoy fruit and plain scones with Tiptree jam and clotted cream, mini ictoria sponges, chocolate delice, macaroons, banoffee pie, lemon cheesecake, three finger sandwiches made with smoked salmon and chive cream cheese, ham and chutney, egg mayonnaise and rocket.

To make the afternoon extra special, you can add Lanson le Black champagne, or the house Prosecco, or even better, for just an extra £5, guests can turn their afternoon tea into a full afternoon of indulgence and get an hour session in the hotel spa with full access to the pool, sauna, and steam room.

ABOVE: The distinctive pink-flowered backdrops of Sweet Little Things lends a picturesque quality to the wares; LEFT: Roald Dahl’s Matilda is the inspiration for the tea at Woolley Grange; BOTTOM: For just an extra £5 each, guests at the Apex City of Bath Hotel can turn their afternoon tea into an afternoon at the spa

THE ONE WITH INSTAGRAM-ABILITY

Sweet Little Things, 6 Lower Borough Walls, Bath and 5 Old Bond Street, Bath; www.sltbath.co.uk The family run tearoom and bakery serves all day brunch, lunch as well as their afternoon tea which is all made on site at the Sweet Little Things Bakery The four finger sandwiches contain oronation chicken, egg mayonnaise and cress, ham and wholegrain mustard, cheddar and chilli jam, freshly baked scones, strawberry jam and clotted cream, homemade cakes, macaroons, and meringue topped with beautiful locally grown edible flowers Along with the distinctive pink flowered backdrops, live music is now playing in the new Old Bond Street store most afternoons.

“Enjoy mini Victoria sponges, chocolate delice, macaroons, a offee e le o hee e a e hree er a he www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 51

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

AFTERNOON TEA THE ONE FOUND IN A SECRET GARDEN IN A CENTRAL LOCATION

Secret Garden at DoubleTree by Hilton Bath, Walcot Street, Bath; www.emmasbarandrestaurantbath.co.uk Tucked away in a uiet corner of the restaurant, the ecret Garden is the perfect place to indulge in the most decadent of British traditions Nestled in lush foliage, this secluded space offers a leafy retreat to unwind in with one of the delicate afternoon teas, right in the heart of the city offering views across the iver Avon The sweet and savoury afternoon tea includes a selection of sandwiches, homemade scones, sweet treats and a choice of freshly brewed tea or coffee The spread also incorporates many locally sourced ingredients such as Bertinet bakery bead, Dusty Ape offee and locally made preserves and is served on contemporary floral illeroy Boch crockery Gift vouchers are also available LEFT: Flourish prides itself on using the freshest local produce for its afternoon tea platters; MIDDLE: Secret Garden at DoubleTree

by Hilton Bath is nestled in lush foliage; BOTTOM: Everything is homemade at The Roseate Villa on Henrietta Road

THE ONE WITH BERTINET BAKERY BREAD

Flourish Foodhall & Kitchen, Glenavon Farm, 331 Bath Road, Saltford; www.flourishatglenavon.co.uk Flourish prides itself on using the freshest local produce to make its afternoon tea platters ou ll get a selection of finger sandwiches made with Bertinet Bakery bread, a homemade uiche, scotch egg, and a selection of sumptuous mini cakes all made and supplied locally And it wouldn t be an afternoon tea without scones, strawberry am and idway Farm clotted cream The tea is served on two tier slate stands, savoury on the bottom and sweet on top, beautifully decorated with micro greens and edible flowers, and comes with a backdrop of fresh flowers on the reclaimed wooden tables and upbeat, cheery music playing in the background, with huge glass caf windows and doors letting in the natural light

THE ONE WITH HOMEMADE EVERYTHING

The Roseate Villa, Henrietta Road, Bathwick, Bath; www.roseatehotels.com verything here is homemade from the breads and scones through to the ams and marmalades The sweet and savoury bites include smoked applewood cheddar cheese with homemade seasonal chutney sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry am, with an extensive selection of hand blended teas from Gillards, a glass of o t handon champagne or rosecco, or an Aperol prit t can be en oyed either al fresco in the garden, or in the light and airy enrietta Bar

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

AFTERNOON TEA

THE ONE YOU CAN PICNIC

No.15 by GuestHouse, 15 Great Pulteney Street, Bath; www.guesthousehotels.co.uk No 15 by GuestHouse changes the menu seasonally to ensure the very best fresh ingredients are used, with one of the current seasonal specials being a Pimms jelly in a glass.

The bread is sourced from Hobbs House Bakery, all of the scones are baked on site, the sweet treats and cakes are made by their amazing pastry chef Gabi, and the sandwich fillings are prepared daily The afternoon tea comes with its own blend of breakfast and Earl Grey tea, a selection of Jing tea and some options from Comins. And for something special there’s a glass of Bolney Bubbly. The treats are served on a traditional stand, with custom made, pink-edged plates, and the tea comes in silver tea pots and fine china pink edged tea cups t can be taken in the elegant bar space, or if you fancied visiting one of the nearby parks to enjoy your afternoon tea, the team will pack it up for you picnic style.

THE ONE WITH FIVE STARS

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, 16 Royal Crescent, Bath; www.royalcrescent.co.uk The oyal rescent s hotel afternoon tea consists of a selection of finger sandwiches including free range chicken with Coronation mayonnaise, topside of beef, horseradish and watercress, Clarence Court egg mayonnaise and smoked salmon with chive cream cheese. Then comes the freshly made sweet scones and Bath buns, a sweet spiced bun topped with sugar and finally a selection of cakes and pastries, which currently include an exotic fruit macaroon; a dark chocolate, passionfruit and hazelnut gateaux; a summer berry and tonka bean choux bun; and an apricot and lavender tartlet. Everything is made on site by the team of pastry chefs lead by Michael Topp the head pastry chef, with an average of 400 scones a week produced during the summer months.

Alongside the afternoon tea itself, leading premium tea brand Ronnefeldt is served, as well as champagne and flights of ipsmiths gin, eyka celandic vodka, or lantation rum are offered The indulgent treat is served on traditional silver afternoon tea stands, china tea pots, and pristinely white linen clothed tables, and can be enjoyed in the Dower House restaurant, and during the summer months, in the beautiful landscaped gardens within the hotel walls.

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

ABOVE: The Royal Crescent pastry chef team lead by Michael Topp make all the delicacies of the afternoon tea on site; BELOW: Pack up your No 15 treats and enjoy al fresco

THE ONE SET IN 500 ACRES

Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, Colerne, Chippenham; www.lucknampark.co.uk The Lucknam Park afternoon tea is served on a petite fleur three tiered stand Tier number one is a selection of hand crafted sandwiches and savouries including ham and tomato, egg and cress, and smoked salmon Tier two is a choice of sweet or savoury warm homemade scones with clotted cream and homemade preserves, and tier three is a selection of dainty patisserie prepared by the pastry chef For drinks choose between leaf tea, fresh coffee, or a glass of Joseph errier champagne The afternoon tea is served in Restaurant ywel Jones, which is set in glorious acres of beautiful gardens and unspoilt parkland, with a degree scenic view And you can always upgrade your visit and use the spa s facilities or book in with the e uestrian centre

“For drinks choose between leaf tea, re h offee or a la of Joseph Perrier ha a e

ABOVE: Enjoy panoramic views with your afternoon tea at Lucknam Park;

LEFT: A miniature Eton Mess is served up with the sweet and savoury treats at Abbey Hotel Kitchen

THE ONE IN THE HEART OF THE CITY

Abbey Hotel Kitchen, 1 – 3 North Parade, Bath; www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk Located very near to ulteney Bridge and arade Gardens, in the heart of the city on the terrace in the summer month, or in the uber cool hotel ArtBar, the Abbey itchen afternoon tea comes on a traditional three tier stand and is made up of a selection of finger sandwiches, and decadent sweet treats such as homemade Battenberg and miniature ton ess, which uses omerset cream and locally grown strawberries To drink it s a choice of Tea ig teas or freshly brewed The olombian o offee, along with the extensive wine and cocktail list n

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AFTERNOON TEA

HOME IN TIME FOR TEA

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Treat yourself to the high life with a luxe-at-home high tea

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SHOPPING LIST

1. 12 Cupcake Selection Box, £37.50, www.didicakesbath.com 2. Leaf Brass Spoons Gift Set, £18.50; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk 3. Rhea Small Jug by Afroart £26, www.juliadavey.com 4. Narrow cats tray, £24, www.avenidahome.com 5. Teapot in Nordic blue, £29, www.salcombetrading.co.uk 6. We Heart Birthdays rainbow fabric bunting, £18, www.rossitersofbath.com 7. Linen navy edged napkin - set of 4, £24, www.biggiebest.co.uk 8. Lotus pink tea caddy, £7, www.teahouseemporium.co.uk 9. Strawberry & rhubarb jam £3.95, www.heavenlyhedgerows.co.uk 10. Glass cake stand, £48, www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 57

SPONSORED CONTENT

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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 uni ue art pieces, underfloor heated, and offers a walk in rainforest shower experience hat better way to connect body and mind than a private countryside retreat? Boreham Rd, Warminster BA12 9HH; 01985 804680; www.bishopstrowhotel.com

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is a medical Aesthetics clinic situated in Widcombe, Bath offering a bespoke service for all your aesthetic needs With an emphasis on ‘natural’, Dr Lucy uses Wrinkle relaxing, Dermal Fillers, rofhilo and esotherapy s to deliver outstanding natural results from anti-ageing to tweaks which enhance or disguise certain features.

10 Rossiter Road, Bath, BA2 4JP; 07887514154 www.doctorlucy.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 , 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 www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 59

Superb Quality Clothes Care Excellent Value

Wedding Clothing a Speciality Van service available

6 Monmouth Place, Bath BA1 2AU Tel 01225 311595 Parent Company established in 1975

Family business established since 1957 Large display of beds and mattresses ● Free customer parking Great customer service, just read our reviews ● Immediate delivery available A great selection of bedroom accessories from well-known brands

26-27 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EH 01225 313421 www.bedebuysltd.co.uk

SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

THROWING SHADE Take some time out in the sun and embrace the playful French Riviera style with pretty fringes to ensure your garden / beach time /park side staples will stand out from the crowd.

Fringed black and cream striped canopy, £360 and fringed deck chair, £250, from Cox & Cox; www.coxandcox.co.uk

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

RAFFIA HAT, £90 Summery hat handmade by local artisans in Madagascar for Maison N.H. Paris. rafted from ra a and then intricately woven to a cloche silhouette.

From Toast Bath, 7 Bartlett Street, Bath; www.toa.st

COASTING ALONG

LIEWOOD DANTE BEACH SET, £29 Durable, soft and long-lasting material, this easy to clean silicone beach set guarantees hours of fun activity at the beach.

From Maze, 19 Green Street, Bath; www.mazeclothing.co.uk

Make like life’s a beach and go soak up some rays

CACATOÈS RIO DE JANEIRO, £30 The candy-scented cult sandals made in Brazil have become an undeniable go-to for any summer footwear wardrobe.

Perfect for the beach, they are entirely made of recyclable plastic waste. ro Gra e a el Geor e ree ah ra ea a el o u

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

COTTON BEACH TOWEL BLUE, WAS £235 NOW £119 Dsquared cotton towel crafted in a soft towelling with the distinctive large logo along one side.

From John Anthony, 26-28 High Street, Bath; www.john-anthony.com

COMPILED BY AVA CALLOW

AN ALMOST PERFECT HOLIDAY

BY LUCY DIAMOND, £7.99 It’s time for the summer holidays, and in Cornwall Lorna’s cottages are fully booked. Maggie, Em and Olivia have planned what they hope will be the perfect getaways, but not everything goes quite to plan. ro The l el ar oo ho 43 Moorland Road, Bath; heol el ar oo ho o u

ED’S CHOICE BULLFROG BOTTLE IN BOW, £20 Enjoy hydration that stays cool with this stainless steel reusable water bottle.

From Bullfrog, 10 Kingsmead Square, Bath; www.bullfrogbottles.com

ULTRA VIOLETTE QUEEN SCREEN LUMINISING SUN SERUM SPF 50+, £36 This glow-boosting serum melts into the skin and works to add luminosity to the complexion. Antioxidant-rich kakadu plum provides a vitamin C boost to help protect skin from damaging free radicals and promote healthy looking skin.

From Space NK, 10 New Bond Street Place, Bath; www.spacenk.com

SQUARE SUNGLASSES IN DEEP TEAL, £305 Handmade in Italy the 0772V2 sunglasses boast a heavy brow line with tonal sun lenses that complement each of its semi-translucent acetate frames.

From Cutler and Gross, 9 Bridge Street, Bath; www.cutlerandgross.com

HOGLA SEAGRASS LARGE SHOPPER BAG, £50 This handwoven seagrass basket with handles has been made from sustainable Hogla seagrass, and is perfectly sized for either a local grocery shop or a trip to the beach.

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

BRUSSELS TWIRL BIKINI, TOP, £116 AND BOTTOMS £116 A signature Odabash shape with a luxe, golden ring at the bust to elevate the style, with the matching bottoms offering you a little extra coverage, courtesy of the fold over finish From The Dressing Room, 7 Quiet Street, Bath; www. dressingroombath.com

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LA DOLCE VITA

Whether you’re Roman holiday-ing or hanging out down the London Road, we’ve got some bellissima looks for you Words by Marianne Cantelo

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hether we choose to brave the airports, opt for a staycation with an excruciating petrol cost per mile, or embrace our Bath pavements and terraces this summer, we can rely on our strong traditions of making stylishhay-hey-hay while the sun shines!

IN HOLIDAY MOOD It’s endearing how we British transform with the fewest of rays, sloughing off our layers like butterflies bursting from cocoons, our subconscious fear of risk of a drenching from

an unexpected downpour adding frisson to the air, even in the sunniest climes e are different creatures in holiday mood, a little bit of a tan, a few freckles (a lobster red back) makes us riskier, more fun and more adventurous with our fashion choices.

Add to that, even if you stay at home, Cool Britannia, epitomised by pints of lager and parkas in the parklife, is getting quite a bit of competition from La Dolce Vita these days – think Aperol Spritz with statement scarves and sunglasses instead. The simple replacement of the pub picnic bench with individual chairs and smaller tables, has somehow influenced our summer home style evolution into a state that rivals our European neighbours.

CAFÉ CULTURE A lovely side effect of public health concerns is that in the UK we have adopted a café and bar culture with more outside seating, umbrellas and table service. Hurray! Have we created more opportunities for lazy people watching and some self-indulgent (but oh so fun) statement dressing, in the sunshine between the clouds? Bath’s Palladio-inspired architecture makes an incredible backdrop to this ‘guilty pleasure’ hobby, our city really feels like it’s in Italy – the hazy views of the hills, the restaurants and boutiques, the multitude of designer pooches.

VESPA READY Embracing the Dolce Vita feeling, adds the opportunity for some cinematic dressing that is perfect for the longer days – brighter colours, voluminous shapes, dramatic cuts that change and shift with the light.

1950s style dresses paired with little statement jackets to keep off

the morning chill, perfect for post o ce drinks or date night later orseted figure accentuating tops with high-waisted, ankle grazing trousers that show off statement sandals and colourful court shoes. With a sharp lightweight blazer, this look is great for the o ce, take it off and you are ready for your Vespa!

“Pattern and texture clashing is a particular Italian skill” Pattern and texture clashing is a particular Italian skill, with Gucci and Etro leading the wayuse their editorial ads to inspire you, pull together different prints by weaving colours and tones through the look, to create looks that are unique but never garish tripes and florals, paisley with flocked satin, top to toe tonal in leather, light cashmere and silk – bellissima!

INSTANT GLAMOUR f you like to float around and want to be simpler, a gorgeous Pucci or Versace-inspired kaftan or off the shoulder maxi dress is easy chic, metallic gladiator sandals upping the glamour stakes and a leather jacket draped on the shoulders for cooler evenings. Even your casual wear can have a dash of Dolce – your denim jeans paired with a capacious straw bag, a scarf tied on to make it your own and over-sized pair of sunglasses adding instant glamour. In fact, the scarf is the most Roman Holiday item of them all – for your hair, your neck, your bag, through your belt loops, it adds instant personality to any look. If you want to dip your toe in this most refreshing and delicious of vacanza styles, give it a splash now.

Marianne Cantelo is the business development project manager for Dorothy House Hospice Care.

The charity has 25 high street shops across the region selling fantastic pre-loved items which provides a large part of their income, plus it also has an online shop.

For more: www.dorothyhouse.org.uk

Photographer: Egle Vasi; www.eglevasi.com Models: Angelica Baines and Tash Kings Makeup: Chantelle Moody Instagram @chantellemoody.makeup Styling: Eleanor Tasker and Marianne Cantelo Location: Avellinos Italian deli and café, 5 Cleveland Place East, London Road, Bath; www.avellinosdelibath.co.uk

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COMPILED BY AVA CALLOW

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SHOPPING LIST

1. Bags with chains scarf in cornflower blue and coral orange, £70, Mulberry, 38 Milsom Street, Bath; www.mulberry.com 2. Hoop earrings in 14ct yellow gold, £445, Mallory 1-5 Bridge Street, Bath; www.mallory-jewellers.com 3. Kanel 9 red hair clip, £39, Found, 17 Argyle Street, Bath; www.foundbath.co.uk 4. Versace Jeans Couture macrologo baroque nylon messenger bag, was £135 now £95, John Anthony, 26-28 High Street, Bath; www.john-anthony.com 5. Tailored silk blazer, £150, from Cos, 24-26 Union Street, Bath; www.cos.com 6. Rectangle sunglasses style no.

1369, £320, Cutler and Gross, 9 Bridge Street, Bath; www.cutlerandgross.com 7. Indi & Cold linen skirt in ecru, £110, Maze, 19 Green Street, Bath, BA1 2JZ; www.mazeclothing.co.uk 8. Evissa curb chain green crystal necklace £45, www.lasourcetrading.co.uk 9. Desigual patterned layered dress, £119, Gaff Clothing, 29 Upper Borough Walls, Bath; www.gaffclothing.co.uk 10. Unworn Leopard Heeled Loafers Size 7 from Next, £18.99, Dorothy House Shop; www.dorothyhouse.shop

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SPONSORED CONTENT

MEET THE

AUCTIONEER Buying and selling with the experts

JOHN ROLFE

JOHN ROLFE AUCTIONS 01666 848398; www.johnrolfeauctions.com How long have you worked as an auctioneer?

With my dad being a legendary Bath dealer, I was forced as a child to car boot sales every Sunday. The only saving grace was the opportunity to buy old Star Wars figures with my pocket money and from then on I was hooked on collecting. In my early adult life I endured five depressing years working as a civil servant before gratefully being made redundant. In need of a proper job, I took a part-time portering role at Gardiner Houlgate 20 years ago and the rest is history!

Tell us about your most memorable sale...

Having served my apprenticeship at Gardiner Houlgate, cataloguing their regular general sale, I was promoted to head of fine art and antiques. This gave me the opportunity to curate my own sales.

Around this time we were given the instruction of an exceptional collection of Modern British Art. This was a pivotal moment in my career, being surrounded by so much energy and colour. With the help of my great friend Tony Hepworth, a well respected Modern British authority, we put to market a cracking sale of work by artists including Eric Ravilious, Mary Feddon, Ray Richardson, John Maltby. From this moment on I knew I had found my calling in Modern Art and Design.

What can you tell us about your next auction?

My next auction in September is a ‘Sale of Wonderful Things’ boasting a collection of classic cars, vintage luxury watches and handbags, silver and jewellery, and of course Modern Art and Design.

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

ALEXANDRA BOWKETT 01453 873800 info@stroudauctions.com; www.stroudauctions.co.uk

How long have you worked as an auctioneer?

I joined the family business at 18.

How do you become and auctioneer or antiques specialist?

I always loved jewellery, so I worked hard to get my diamond grading (DGA) and Gemmological (FGA) qualifications. I am also really lucky to see some really fantastic jewellery in the course of my work, which adds to my knowledge every day.

What advice would you give to an item owner who is looking to auction?

Be sure to see a qualified specialist valuer, especially for jewellery.

Do you think the auction world has changed in recent years?

Yes – the advent of online bidding opens the auction up to countless buyers across the world, not just the few who attend in person. We are selling directly to collectors which means excellent prices.

What do you specialise in?

Jewellery of all kinds!

What can you tell us about your next auction?

Stroud Auctions’ September 14th auction will feature an amazing 1100 lots of jewellery including diamonds, antique pieces, Art Deco and Victorian – something for every buyer.

SPONSORED CONTENT LEON MA

MA SAN AUCTION 01225 318587; www.masanauction.com What do you sell?

We focus on Asian art, predominately Chinese antiques.

CHARLIE DOEL

STRAKERS AUCTIONS 01249 765200; www.strakers.co.uk What area does your auction house focus in?

Selling land and property – anything from garages through to blocks of flats, including houses for renovation or building plots.

What is the biggest mistake you see made by those bidding at auction?

Getting caught up with the emotion of bidding and focusing on ‘winning’ the lot. I always advise setting a maximum limit and sticking to it.

Your top tips for a first-time bidder?

Make sure you speak with the auction team and fully understand the auction process/costs before bidding.

What can you tell us about your next auction?

Our next sale is on the 1 September and we already have a good selection of houses and cottages included.

THOMAS FORRESTER

DIRECTOR, SPECIAL AUCTION SERVICES 01635 580595; www.specialauctionservices.com How long have you worked as an auctioneer?

For over 20 years. I was approached by BBC’s Bargain Hunt then too. I still love it and have just filmed a Bargain Hunt special to mark 100 years of the BBC with Giles Brandreth and Tony Blackburn.

Tell us about your most memorable sale...

All auctions are memorable as each lot has a story. I’m lucky to have sold the most iconic and sought-after movie memorabilia including the hoverboard from Back To The Future Part II, a prototype of Luke Skywalker’s light sabre and the fedora worn by Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones in Raiders Of The Lost Ark. Recently I spent time in Cannes as the auctioneer for Eva Longoria’s Global Gift Foundation where I helped raise two million euros for her charity.

Why should people visit an auction house rather than an antique shop or fair?

Antique shops and fairs are great. Auction houses give buyers the opportunity to speak directly to a specialist and ask questions relating to a specific item or collecting area. The added bonus of auctions is that you are normally seeing the goods straight from a private property, so they are all fresh to the market. Themed auctions like the ones we do at SAS are best for collectors and dealers who want to buy specialist lots such as cameras, trains and jewellery.

What advice would you give to potential seller?

If someone has an item they are unsure on what it is, its age, origin, value, they can contact an auction house usually for a free valuation. These days with emails and phones it’s easy to send a clear photo through to the auctioneer by email. We have a Ma San Auction WhatsApp number which anyone can use to contact us and send photos conveniently.

Can you share a memorable moment?

Our most memorable sale was a collection of Chinese porcelain belonging to a local Bath family who’s father worked in Hong Kong in the mid 1980s.

He bought his collection back to Bath in the late 80s where it was displayed in the family home. There were a few pieces in that collection which we call Imperial Qing, meaning they once would have been used in the Imperial courts or palaces in China during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912).

Why should people sell through auction?

Many buyers at auction are now moving online to bid, this means bidders can register to bid live on the sale day from their own homes wherever they are in the world. In turn this has really started to increase prices on certain popular items. Especially with Chinese art, the majority of our top buyers are from China and Hong Kong and they can bid competitively online without having to be present in the auction house.

TOBY PINN MRICS CHARTERED ARTS & ANTIQUES SURVEYOR 01172 517251; www.tobypinn.co.uk

What qualifications should one look for when seeking advice on valuations of art and antiques?

Gaining a Fine Arts Valuation degree before becoming a Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Arts & Antiques Surveyor was my chosen route into this career.

Today, with more than 20 years’ experience, I specialise in providing independent certified valuations to RICS standards assisted by a variety of consultants, for works of art, antiques, jewellery, and entire collections. This can be for probate, insurance, or sale by auction.

What is your favourite part of being a fine arts valuer?

Most of my valuation work comes via solicitors and executors requiring a certified current market valuation by an RICS valuer of the contents of a home to calculate inheritance tax. Families are often daunted by the seemingly insurmountable task of dealing with the entire contents of a home at a time of loss. My greatest satisfaction is the gratitude of clients who feared the valuation would be an intrusion, but frequently find themselves on an insightful journey through the life of a loved one, gleaned through a lifetimes’ accumulation of objects and artifacts. I am always pleased to discuss your requirements, from a single item to an entire estate.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 67

© BET T Y BHANDARI; W W W.BET T YBHANDARIBR ANDPHOTOGR APHY.COM

NOT THE SAME OLD STORY e find out about the past, present and future of some of Baths oldest indies

By Sarah Moolla

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

I

INDEPENDENT BUSINESS t s not ust Bath s grand Georgian and ictorian architecture that is steeped in history but many of our indie retailers have been around for years and are still going strong ere we speak to four of our favourite old timers and ask them the secret to their longevity

1894

GEORGE BAYNTUN 23 Manvers Street, Bath; www.georgebayntun.com Edward Bayntun-Coward, owner says, y great grandfather George Bayntun founded his bookshop and bindery in Northumberland lace in Bath in e soon moved to larger premises in alcot treet now the site of the ilton otel and in moved again to our present location in anvers treet, which was formerly the ostal orting O ce e also incorporate the businesses of obert iviere, which was founded in Bath in , and George Gregory, which was also founded in Bath in , and between us we have held multiple oyal arrants ueen ary visited us fre uently during the war, and we recently hosted her grandson, The Duke of Gloucester aile elassie was also a regular visitor during his time in exile in Bath Our visitors book is crammed with famous names, and ric dle put on uite a performance in the shop hen we told him that we closed for lunch he responded hy would go shopping at lunch? That s when have my lunch e will carry on doing the things we are best at buying, binding and selling old books Twenty years ago was told that books were a thing of the past and that should shut up shop e are as busy as ever, and most of our customers are young hen the head of the gaming company inecraft sends regular orders you know there must be a future

ABOVE: TR Hayes has been a presence in Bath since 1915; RIGHT: The furniture shop pictured around the 1940s

1915

TR HAYES, 15-18 London Street, Bath; www.trhayes.co.uk Owner Richard Hayes says, “T ayes is the region s largest furniture store and has been a presence in Bath since The ayes family first established a shop in idcombe in what is now The am pub, but in the s moved to larger premises at the top of alcot treet At first it was ust one unit on the corner, but from the s onwards it expanded into the neighbouring properties, and now occupies over , s uare feet with seven floors of display space, including a large separate building across the road showcasing some ama ing contemporary collections Over the decades, T ayes has seen many changes during orld ar they contributed to the war effort by making wooden parts for the Bristol Bulldog fighter aeroplane later they did furniture removals and for many years also offered kitchens and electrical appliances These days the store is more streamlined, focussing on furniture of all types sofas, chairs, beds, mattresses, dining, lounge and bedroom furniture as well as carpets, wooden

OPPOSITE: Edward Bayntun-Coward points out that most

of the customers at his bookshop and bindery are young;

ABOVE: George Bayntun’s bookshop, which was founded in

1894, moved to its current Manvers Street premises in 1939

“We will carry on doing the things we are best at – buying, binding and selling old books”

flooring, curtains and blinds n the store you will find many well known brands including tressless, rcol, arker noll, G lan, ispring and ypnos amongst others Although proud of its local heritage, T ayes also looks to the future and has an ever growing website As people s shopping habits change, and more of us look online, ayes has adapted to this aving said that, people still appreciate being able to come in to the store to try out furniture particularly sofas and beds , and being able to offer this is fundamental to the business As a family run, independent business there have been many challenges over the last hundred years, but ayes strives to keep to its core principles of high uality products and good service opefully T ayes will still be here in Bath in another hundred years The company would like to pay tribute to my father Derek ayes, who sadly passed away on July after a long battle with cancer e devoted his life to the business and it was his energy and passion that saw T ayes grow into the large and successful business that it is today y aim is to continue his legacy for future generations

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 69

ABOVE: Tim Moss says Moss of Bath’s longevity is testament to the team who work there; RIGHT: The independent consumer electronics firm was founded in 1962

1962

MOSS OF BATH 45 St James’ Parade, Bath; www.mossofbath.co.uk Owner Tim Moss says, “Founded in 1962 and wholly owned by its three directors, Moss of Bath, which specialises in the sale, installation and servicing of consumer electronic products, including television, home cinema, hi fi and portable audio product, is still an independent family business with its roots firmly tied to Bath “Reaching 60 years in the business of consumer electronics retail is an amazing achievement and, whilst we have significantly evolved during this time, our core values have always remained the same: to hold true to our commitment to integrity, hard work and outstanding customer service “We are incredibly ambitious with a strong set of ‘family’ values and pride ourselves in being able to blend old fashioned customer care within a high tech industry Our longevity is also testament to the talented and knowledgeable individuals who work as

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

a team at Moss of Bath and, of course, to the loyalty of our customers, referral sources, brand partners, and friends “It is inevitable that cities change and evolve and as a business we happily accept that Over the past years we have seen so many changes, especially on the high street and the significant growth in online and mobile commerce means that we aim to provide an outstanding and personal experience for the increasingly informed and socially connected customer e strongly believe that having a physical store is still one of our greatest assets and see the showroom as the focus of our business

“We pride ourselves in being able to blend old fashioned customer care within a high-tech industry”

INDEPENDENT BUSINESS

1961

ABOVE: Rossiters moved into the Weavers old site on

Broad Street in 1961; BELOW: The department store has expanded significantly over the six decades

ROSSITERS OF BATH 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com Owner Peter James says, “Rossiters was set up in 1961 and was initially just a small space where they currently display the cards. The business then sold handmade jewellery and small gifts. During the next two decades the store expanded up and down Broad Street, turning itself into the emporium and the labyrinth that is the present day Rossiters.

“There are not many stores around like us and we are blessed that Bathonians seem very loyal to our brand. The compliments by new visitors are very welcome but the bedrock of our business remains trade given to us by folk in the local catchment.

“We have been around for 60 years now.

We have managed that because people that

work in the business are passionate about it That, combined with udicious financial management, is very helpful if you wish to stay around in retail for a few generations.

“There is an element of theatre to shopkeeping. Every day you throw open the doors you are not quite sure what will happen.

We are a multi-faceted business in that on our ground floor we provide all those every day essentials such as cards, kitchen products, and so forth. Then upstairs we take great delight on taking on projects to make people’s homes look beautiful and comfortable. Each project, whether large or small, is exciting.

“Bath remains an attractive city in which to trade. But as everybody knows, due to online competition, retail has become a lot harder.

This means that shops are a smaller part of the mix in the city centre. More buildings are devoted to hospitality or service type businesses, and of course some shops remain empty. This adaptation will continue and ever more creative uses for buildings will need to be explored and found as the number of shops continue to diminish. The economics of bricks and mortar retailing just do not quite stack up for many.”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 71

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

HOMESTAY HOSTS IN BATH to host both short-term and long-term students.

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

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

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It’s the city’s business

BATHWORKS THIS ISSUE >>BATH SPA SUPPORTS UKRAINE (74) >>BIZ Q&A KUBA BIEDA (77) >>BATH LIFE AWARDS SIMPLE COW (78) Storyteller Grethe Mangala Jensen performed for Bath school children

Read and learn

S

How SouthGate is encouraging children to read more outhGate has been hosting some bookish events to get local children reading. Over 250 school children from Twerton Infant School, St Michael’s Junior Church School, and St Martin’s Garden Primary School attended the event where they heard stories performed by professional storyteller Grethe Mangala Jensen.

The event was part of the Young Reader’s Programme, an award-winning initiative sponsored by SouthGate’s co-owner, British Land and run in partnership with the National Literacy Trust that aims to get children reading outside of the classroom – and even gives all the children the

chance to choose a book to take home with them.

“Reading for enjoyment is proven to support mental well-being, literacy skills, and future success. Encouraging children to enjoy reading from a young age can have a measurable impact on the rest of their lives,” says Jonathan Douglas CBE, chief executive of the National Literacy Trust. “But the sad reality is that six per cent of children across the country don’t have their own book to read at home, and many don t find reading enjoyable.

“Through the Young Readers Programme and the support of British Land, we are able to help so many more children have fun whilst reading outside the classroom, give them access to

inspiring books and access to many benefits that they may otherwise be missing out on.”

Since the programme’s launch in Bath 11 years ago, it has supported more than 2,100 school children and donated 6,400 books around the city.

Guy Henderson, centre director at SouthGate Bath, says, “Supporting local children and their families is so important to us, and the Young Readers Programme is an integral part of this.

We look forward to this brilliant initiative every year and have loved seeing children from across our community enjoy their storytelling sessions.”

For more: www.southgatebath.com MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 115 www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 73

BETTER TOGETHER

Thérapie team Liz, Tereza, Alexandra, Kerry, Yasmin and Stephanie cut the ribbon in the new SouthGate clinic

Bath Spa University has joined forces with the International University of conomics and umanities as part of a wider kraine university twinning scheme The twinning initiative launched by the ormack onsultancy Group G and niversities nternational i aims to help the estern kraine niversity continue to survive and thrive beyond the war. roposed support from Bath pa includes sharing learning resources, developing a mentoring scheme, collaborating across disciplines and facilitating exchange between students and staff at both institutions Bath pa niversity stands in solidarity with kraine, and we are delighted to partner with in this way, to provide support, and to strengthen ties of friendship and cooperation through the development of academic, cultural and personal exchanges, says David Newman, secretary of Bath Spa University.

For more: www.universitiesuk.ac.uk

FRESH FACES

IN THE FINAL London oad based efillable o has been named a finalist in the Great British ntrepreneur Awards The ero waste shop beat out over , other entrants for a place on the shortlist.

Being one of the finalists has been an incredible elevator for us,” say Stamena and Leny ilusheva, the mother daughter team behind efillable t is a recognition of the unbelievably hard work and sacrifice that is re uired to establish a young start up business, especially in such an economic climate like we are all experiencing now The Awards, in partnership with tarling Bank, will take place on November, and will see awards presented per region with categories to include Disruptor of the ear, ntrepreneur for Good, and the coveted Great British ntrepreneur of the ear or ore re lla le ho

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

Leny and Stamena Milusheva’s Refillable Co. is a finalist in the Great British Entrepreneur Awards

© FELIX RUSSELL-SAW

Bath Spa University has joined a project to share resources with Ukraine University

Two new businesses have opened their doors in SouthGate.

Aesthetic medical clinic, Thérapie Clinic and premium performance sportswear brand Castore have joined the diverse collection of shops and eateries in the city centre.

“We’re extremely pleased to welcome these two new brands to SouthGate Bath, and are pleased they have selected us as part of their expansions across the UK,” says Guy Henderson, centre director at SouthGate Bath. “We’re committed to offering our visitors a breadth of the s best brands, and I’m sure our latest additions will be very popular with those living in the city and visitors alike The new Th rapie linic is among across urope, and offers a range of accessible laser and aesthetic treatments, while in astore you ll find tailored sportswear made with the latest technology to support optimal athletic performance For more: www.therapieclinic.com / www.castore.com

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BATHWORKS Tim Beale (left) is nominated for Rugby Ambassador of the Year

Catch up with Emma Wharton Love’s Bath Life Business Surgery appearance on YouTube

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC

MAJOR PLAYERS

PARLIAMENT APPROVED

Four Bath Rugby stars are up for Parliamentary Awards. They join 20 individuals shortlisted for the Awards, which are a celebration of the ways premiership rugby clubs tackle inequality and strive for social change.

Sonny Newton Beaven and Tim Beale are nominated for Rugby Ambassador of the Year Award; Chloe Wells is up for Outstanding Achiever of the Year Award; and Amber Morgan is recognised in the

Emma Wharton Love, former director of hybrid working at the House of Commons, has joined Bath-based workplace design and build company Interaction.

“I’m delighted to be joining a creative and forward-thinking company that, not only has a real grasp of the complex issues facing organisations and employees as they settle into new ways of working, but is also so focused on the well-being of those who use their workspaces and decreasing the environmental impact of creating them,” says Emma.

Emma recently joined MediaClash’s Greg Ingham for a virtual Bath Life Business Surgery centred the future of hybrid work.

If you missed it live, catch up now on Bath Life’s YouTube channel. www.interaction.uk.com

THE GREEN TEAM The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa has become the first hotel in Bath and the South West to be awarded Green Key accreditation, the tourism industry’s leading standard for excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable operations.

“We are delighted to have been awarded The Green Key accreditation and this is testament to the hard work of our dedicated Green Team,”

© BRENDAN FOSTER PHOTOGR APHY

A TASTE OF WHAT’S TO COME

Katrina Lane has joined the team at allmanhall. Previously of Winchester College, where she was head of catering and hospitality, she joins food procurement specialist allmanhall as senior client relationship manager.

“Katrina is such an exciting addition to our team of passionate, knowledgeable and experienced experts,” says Jo Hall, a director at allmanhall. “Our clients are going to gain so much from the plethora of experiences she has had in an array of catering settings and sectors. Katrina’s joining our team underlines our ongoing commitment to supporting relationships which truly benefit our clients, at a time when many other organisations are scaling back this valued support.” www.allmanhall.co.uk

Community Volunteer of the Year Category.

All the nominees have spectacular stories of how they have changed their lives through Bath Rugby’s community programmes, like Tim (pictured above) who has transformed since playing rugby, including gaining the confidence to tag and tackle, when at first he found such things a challenge due to his sensitivities. These days he’s the captain of the Melksham Stags.

For more: www.bathrugbyfoundation.com

says general manager Lorraine Jarvie. “As a hospitality business, we inevitably impact the environment and our local community and therefore, we have a responsibility to mitigate our impact. Gaining this award was our number one goal to demonstrate to our guests, staff and to the wider hospitality industry, that we take sustainability and our CSR programme very seriously and that we will continue to do so.”

The hotel’s successful bid comes after championing of sustainability by its Green Team, led by marketing manager Mary Stringer, who laid out strategies with external sustainability consultants from Mission: Net ero The hotel s efforts include reduction strategies for energy, water and waste, supporting local conservation initiatives, sourcing local produce and suppliers, installing charging points for electric vehicles, and using biodiversity-friendly The Green Team at the Royal Crescent gardening techniques.

Hotel & Spa are celebrating their win For more: www.royalcrescent.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 75

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BATHWORKS

“THE INDUSTRY AS A WHOLE HAS BECOME A LOT MORE PROFESSIONAL, CARING, AND INCLUSIVE” sure we can find the staff needed by our clients e offer in house training for our temporary waiting and bar staff to ensure even those with no hospitality experience can get the basic skills that will allow them to work with our clients.

BIZ Q&A

Kuba Bieda

Lime Recruit’s operations manager shares some of the challenges of recruitment in a post-covid landscape

L

ime Recruit is a consultancy specialising in recruitment for catering and hospitality industries, both temporary and permanent. It works with businesses across the sector from independent restaurants and gastro pubs to high-end hotels, events venues and contract caterers. Here we find out more from the company s operations manager Kuba Bieda.

What’s your role at Lime?

As operations manager, I mostly supporting the three branches in Bath, Leamington and Stratford-uponAvon in the day-to-day running of the business, making sure our clients and candidates get the best service possible. Also, together with our directors Chris and Emma, I ensure we follow the best practices in the industry and our temporary workers are well looked after.

Have you worked here for long? ve spent my whole professional career to date with Lime. I started with the company in our Leamington Spa branch, back in 2013, as part of our casual front of house team,

working across a number of high-end hotels and events oined the o ce as a junior consultant a year later and never looked back ince then, ve worked across most of the desks in the business at some point.

What brought you to Bath?

I came here back in 2018 to open up the new branch. After running the Bath o ce three years, slightly interrupted by the global pandemic, at the end of last year I moved up to the operations manager role.

What is behind the company’s success, do you think?

Our values are the absolute key to all we do as a business and how we work.

We spent a great deal of time over the lockdown period trying to put them into words.

Talk us through those values In the end, they can be summarised by the following: we care, we add energy, we work with integrity and we work as a team. We want to make sure that every person that becomes a part of Lime, whether a member of our temp team or new consultant joining one of the o ces, buys into those and lives by them. We believe that only

by operating our company by those values we will have a long-term, sustainable business we can be proud to be part of.

As you mentioned its been a challenging time for recruitment in hospitality…

The last couple of years have indeed been an absolute rollercoaster for the industry The long lockdowns caused by the pandemic resulted in many people leaving the industry and finding obs in other sectors of the economy. This combined with the effect of Brexit caused a perfect storm, which on many occasions meant that recruitment for some roles, especially chefs, has become a near impossible task.

How has that impacted Lime?

Since reopening back in 2021 we are busier than ever, trying to support our clients during a period of unprecedented demand.

And how do you provide the support needed? hile we don t have the magic wand that would fix the structural issues that have caused the sta ng crisis, there are a few things we do to make

What about your clients themselves – what’s been your advice for them?

We work closely with many businesses advising them on how to make their vacancies more attractive for applicants – what level of salary they should offer for specific roles, what perks they should consider etc. While a lot of our clients are busy with running their businesses, we make the time to research these things.

Is there anything about the industry you find frustrating?

I dislike the common perception of hospitality as not a viable career choice t s one of the largest sectors of the UK economy, yet still, working in hospitality isn t perceived by many as having a proper ob ospitality has massively changed over last few years – the wages have gone up, companies are investing in training and well-being of their staff, the industry as a whole has become a lot more professional, caring and inclusive.

What is your favourite thing about your job?

I love that I can do something that combines my passion for hospitality and allows me to meet so many great people. Working in recruitment can be incredibly rewarding – nothing beats the feeling of finding a dream ob for a candidate you worked with for a very long time, knowing that you had a small contribution into helping their career. Also being able to visit some amazing hotels and events that we work with is definitely a perk For more: Lime Recruit, St Peters Terrace, Lower Bristol Road, Bath; www.limerecruit.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 77

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Emma Willoughby and Oliver Day of Simple Cow

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2022 Oliver Day, founder of Simple Cow, on how doing the right thing can win prizes SUSTAINABILITY WINNER SPONSORED BY

S

imple ow is about milk without the guilt and sold directly through milk stations, including one in Bath on Third Avenue in Oldfield ark t s an ethical, sustainable alternative to factory farmed dairy, built on the belief that milk can be produced in a way that s beneficial to the environment and kind to the cows Founder Oliver Day tells us what it was like to win the ustainability Bath Life Award for his business How did it feel to win the new Sustainability Bath Life Award?

ncredible y business has always been about being kind to the cows and the environment, but against all of those other companies and to be the winner was wonderful it s 78 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

not every day you get recognised for what you do day in and day out over the years.

Any reflections on the night?

f you re a finalist, don t drink so much that when you re called up you can’t string a sentence together..!

Is your Award on display?

It’s on the sideboard by the front door artly so everyone can see it and partly for unwanted guests t weighs a tonne.

Why do you think 2022 was your winning year?

ustainability was a new category, but you can t get away from animal welfare, environmental products and local produce right now To me it has just been doing the right thing and all those elements fitted perfectly into the sections of this category. ith all the media attention on how agriculture is responsible for climate change, think we have demonstrated that there is a different way of doing things; a way that actually improves the natural world

Get involved with Bath’s most exciting celebration of the year by sponsoring the Bath Life Awards. Sponsorship offers brands presence throughout the Awards’ months-long marketing campaign, networking opportunities on the Awards night itself and at the events leading up to it like the Finalists’ and Sponsors’ Reception.

Different levels of sponsorship offer different perks, but some of the benefits up for grabs include a specially dressed table for the company, a chance to hand out an Award on the big night, and exclusive association with a category of your choosing.

For more information about sponsorship contact head of partnerships Annie Kelly annie.kelly@mediaclash.co.uk and commercial director Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk

Talk us through the Simple Cow business model

e are the only dairy supplier in the Bath area that allows cows and calves to live together t s fairly standard in the dairy industry for calves to be removed from their mother shortly after birth e do things a little differently Our cows and calves get to live happily together until a more natural weaning age, meaning, you don t get your breakfast until the calves have theirs.

Was there one moment you realised you were on the right track with Simple Cow?

We have so many messages from people telling us so t s these words that keep us going e know we re doing the right thing but to hear customer praise drives us on What would you say you really love about your job?

It’s the recognition that we are giving the customers a taste of nostalgia in how their milk comes, but it is also about helping them

make simple changes in life that can greatly improve carbon footprints What are your aims right now?

Getting the milk out to more and more people it s not until people taste it that they can actually feel the difference of such a natural, high uality product What are some of the frustrations in your industry?

Agriculture, and in particular dairy, has had a lot of bad press e are often all tarred with the same brush and it can take a lot to try and educate people What do you like about working in Bath’s business community?

Bath is such a wonderful place often liken it to a large village there is a real community aspect to it that you don t find in larger cities What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever been given?

Don t give up

For more: www.simplecow.co.uk

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Gardens by the Bay in Singapore, designed by Bath-based landscape architects Grant Associates, is celebrating ten years

Architecture

GREEN LIVING Bath landscape architects mark ten years since its world-renowned green space project Grant Associates, the Bath-based landscape architects, is calling for more city spaces to be turned over to nature in order to boost biodiversity, tourism and well-being. As the globally-recognised tourist attraction Gardens by the Bay, which is a nature park spanning 101 hectares in the centre of Singapore, celebrates its 10th anniversary this week, Andrew Grant, founder of the pioneering landscape architecture practice and lead designer on the world-renowned

project, believes that it is more important than ever for biodiversity-rich green spaces to be intentionally cultivated in order to combat the climate emergency.

Andrew says, “Gardens by the Bay demonstrates the possibility of using landscapes, plants and nature to create powerful places where people can come together and be inspired. Its legacy and impact is sizeable ten years on. Its success shows how, as landscape architects, we can

positively influence and transform cityscapes into areas that add more value to people and planet, supporting human well-being and fuelling urban biodiversity.”

Grant Associates are also the designers of Singapore’s Supertrees, as well as the current Tower of London Superbloom display which can be seen until 18 September this year.

For more: www.grant-associates.uk.com

sbsdesignandbuild.com 01225 874676 info@sbsdesignandbuild.com

PROPERTY NEWS Cleveland pools

POOLING RESOURCES A £250,000 contribution towards the completion of the project to restore open-air community swimming at Cleveland Pools in Bath has been approved by Bath and North East Somerset Council. The funding will support the final stages of reopening the pools to the public, which include a pool for adults and competent swimmers and a shallower pool for children to enjoy, and the restoration of the Grade II listed buildings on the site.

Councillor Richard Samuel says, “It’s exciting that the reopening of the pools is getting closer and I’m delighted to approve this further funding to help get the pro ect finished t s the culmination of many years of hard work by everyone involved and will be a huge asset for the community.”

The £9m restoration of the country’s only surviving Georgian lido is expected to be completed this summer and will see the creation of unique open-air swimming pools heated by heat pumps in the adjacent river.

For more: www.clevelandpools.org.uk

An artist’s impression of the finished Cleveland Pools

Homewood is expanding

Expansion plans

HOMEWOOD BOUND Aaron Evans Architects have secured Green Belt full planning consent for the expansion of the historic country house hotel, Homewood Hotel and Spa, for the Kaleidoscope Collection.

The £3 million development includes six new luxury guest suites each with their own private terraces and a small meeting and events space. As part of the masterplan, new landscape planting and additional parking will also be provided The proposals are designed to be energy e cient, with heating provided by air source heat pumps and onsite renewable energy provided by discreet photovoltaic panels A new wildflower orchard with mixed, native species hedgerow and a new bat house will provide an appropriate landscape setting whilst also enhancing on-site biodiversity.

Owner of Homewood Ian Taylor says, “It is a key objective of this project to focus on sustainability and achieve a design that is sympathetic to our neighbours in the local community, by taking into full consideration, ecology, and light spill, given our location on the top of the hill. I am delighted with the final result, which marks the last piece of the jigsaw in the Homewood rejuvenation project, quickly developing as a market leading boutique hotel.”

For more: www.homewoodbath.co.uk

The Bath Property Awards take place 4 November

Bath Property Awards

MOMENTUM BUILDS Nominations are now open for the Bath Property Awards 2022. Covering the business period of July 2021 – June 2022, there are18 categories, which are free to enter and include architect, financial, contractor, rising star, residential sales agent, and residential interior designer.

The grand reveal is 20 September, with the finalists and sponsors dinner on 4 November at the Apex City of Bath Hotel. Along with entering, companies can also get involved with category and feature sponsorships.

For more: www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk

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

20

BAT HILL

Matilda Walton explores a Grade II listed property in an enviable location

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I

t’s hard to pick a favourite feature of this exquisite Bathwick Hill home. It might be the space set across four floors it offers five bedrooms, off road parking for two two cars and it even has its own wine cellar For others, it ll be the Grade II listed property’s remarkable architectural features that set it apart – part of John inch The lder s Bathwick state development circa , this, the Jacobean evival two storey gabled block, was added in by local architects ilcock and eay t features an eye catching semi circular pediment over the door with intricately crafted strapwork and an oval shaped cartouche set over a triglyph frie e, with lower moulding that sits as a drip mould over paired leaded windows on each side t all lends the house an imposing look and that s only the features you can see on approaching the heavy egg and dart moulding front door But maybe it s the location that strikes true longing into the soul The house overlooks the lush meadows of the National Trust cared for Bath kyline alk From the back garden you can stroll right out into the fields and en oy the breath taking views over the lines, curves, and

PROPERTY

spires of the cityscape. When it comes to our spectacular summer skies, there really is no better spot from which to enjoy the golden-hued evenings and pinky purple sunsets surrounded by the scent of wildflowers and the burble of birdsong. It is Bath at its most idyllic, drenched in nature and set a little apart from the city’s frenetic centre.

Inside it’s every bit as wonderful with a strong aesthetic of the period paired with all of the comforts required of a modern home. The grand arches of the entrance hall beckon home-comers through to the sitting and dining rooms, both of which are the height of cosiness with characterful fireplaces perfect for adorning with house plants and curios, and working shutters on the Georgian sash windows – particularly handy during recent weeks for protecting rooms from the worst of the heat. The dining room opens directly into the spotless kitchen, which is replete with hand-built wooden cabinetry, granite worktops, iemens dishwasher and Neff hob and double oven with more than enough space for an accomplished home cook to get creative.

The bedrooms are spread across the two upper floors, with the principal bedroom and en suite on the first along with a similar sized double bedroom and a smaller third room and the family bathroom. The other three bedrooms are at the top of the house, the largest of which features another lovely fireplace The second floor also has large cupboard (this property is spoiled for storage) and a kitchenette, which gives the option to make this floor separate accommodation if desired Come for the views, stay for the quality of living. And don’t wait, this one will be snatched up in no time.

HOUSE NUMBERS Price

£2.9m

Square foot

4,098

Bedrooms

5

Bathrooms

3

For more: Fine & Country, 36 Gay Street, Bath; www.fineandcountry.com

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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.

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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

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01225 311811; www.coopershomeappliances.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 89

BATH LIVES

“I was often in bands with people just because they had instruments” later, I’m fortunate enough to be still working with both of them.

My band No-Man was signed between 1990 and 1993 to a variety of labels. It was a

collaboration with Porcupine Tree’s Steven Wilson, and we were signed with One Little Indian in the UK, Epic 550/ Sony in the US, and Nippon Columbia in Japan. Luckily, I’ve been able to sustain a career in the music business ever since.

I’ve been exceptionally lucky to work with a number of people whose work I admired when I was growing up; from

TIM BOWNESS Musician, podcaster, and co-owner of a music company, on writing songs, Godley influences, and collaborations Tim was born and brought up in Cheshire, and prior to being a musician, he worked for the NHS with the elderly mentally infirm. He also briefly worked for the North West Water Authority, but was often writing songs when he should have been preparing bar charts.

He currently releases music through InsideOut / Sony, and his publishing is handled

by Peter Gabriel’s Box-based Real World. Tim also co-owns the online music business Burning Shed, and co-hosts a podcast with Steven Wilson called The Album Years. His next album Butterfly Mind, is out 5 August.

Music, films and books were a necessary escape from a turbulent childhood that had

its fair share of tragedy, so from a very young age, all I wanted to do was make music.

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

During primary school and sixth form college, I was very conscientious. The bit in the

Robert Fripp (King Crimson) to Ian Anderson ( Jethro Tull) to Andy Partridge (XTC) to Kevin Godley (10cc) to Jansen, Barbieri & Karn ( Japan). On my most recent album, u er , the drummer is Elbow’s Richard Jupp, whose versatile playing I’ve been a fan of for years.

As 10cc’s I’m Not In Love was the first record I ever bought,

middle was a lot less fun as I attended a strict grammar school, which still practiced physical punishment for very minor transgressions.

it was a big thrill to work with the creative titan that is Kevin Godley. And Robert Fripp is fully deserving of his reputation as one of the world’s most inventive and original guitarists. Music just flows through him

My dad used to take me to the cinema to see age inappropriate films when

Making an album usually takes me around 10 to 11 months. After ve finished

I was extremely young, which was where I fell in love with the soundtrack music of John Barry, Bernard Hermann and Ennio Morricone.

In my teens, I was often in bands with people just because they had instruments. There wasn’t

much creative common ground.

On meeting Brian Hulse and Steven Wilson, suddenly I was working with people who had similar ambitions and similar tastes to me. Many, many years

something, I tend to wait for inspiration to come again.

Frequently, I won’t write anything for around nine months. To keep active, during these periods, I often record cover versions or re record old songs that I’d never felt were good enough at the time.

I have a long-term partner called Liz who works as a

therapeutic masseur and in stress management, and we have an year old son ammy who s in his final year at primary school

When we had him we thought hard about where would be a good place for him to grow up.

After travelling around many parts of the country, we fell in love with Bath and chose to move to Bradford on Avon in 2014.

One of my biggest influences when I was growing up was Bradford on Avon-based musician, Peter Hammill. He’s

an artist of great integrity and in my professional life, I’ve worked with him on a variety of projects (many of them Italian, for some reason!) and we’ve become regular coffee and a chat chums e s as passionate and idealistic a person as his music suggested to me when I was teenager.

I spent six months in Manhattan. It had a great

energy and I loved the scale of the buildings and finding unusual, quiet parks or unexpected districts in New Jersey or the Bronx. I clearly looked like an Englishman in New York as, on more than one occasion, after I’d walk into a shop, before I opened my mouth, someone would say, ‘A cup of tea, sir?’ in the most upper crust Downton Abbey fashion.

I met comedian Al Murray at an awards ceremony in 2019, and he told me a very

touching story about a friend of his who liked my music and played it on repeat as he was dying in a hospice.

Almost every part of Bath offers something surprising,

whether it’s a beautiful building, a secret passageway, an astonishing view or a unique independent shop or four. The Bath Skyline walk is essential and offers an amazing overview of the city. Elsewhere, it’s well worth checking out Chapter 22 on Broad treet, which is a florists come caf come record shop Just what every town and city needs. n For more: www.timbowness.co.uk