Bristol Life - Issue 303

ISSUE 303 / AUGUST 2021 / £3

FLYING COLOURS

DUCKS IN A ROW: A VISIT TO SLIMBRIDGE

DOUBLE SHOT

COFFEE + COCKTAILS (BOTH IN THE SAME PLACE!)

WATCH THIS SPACE

BRISTOL’S HOTTEST NEW VENUES

GRAND CAFÉ

ISSUE 303 / AUGUST 2021 / FLOCK TACTICS

HOW KLOSTERHAUS WON OUR HEARTS

LAND OF MANY WATERS SIR FRANK BOWLING: MODERN MASTER

EDITOR’S LETTER

I

22

Modern master

Sir Frank Bowling at Arnolfini

may not know much about art, but I know what I like; and what I’m really liking this month are Sir Frank Bowling’s vast, dreamy, colourful canvases at Arnolfini. Having spoken at length to Frank’s son, Ben Bowling, I’m even a little bit less ignorant about art than I used to be. We knew this exhibition was going to be special; to find out just how special, turn to page 22.

It’s now midsummer (you can’t get anything past us). This is traditionally the silly season in journalism, when local press, faced with the dawning realisation that not very much is happening at all, desperately dust down hoary urban legends or fill their pages with controlled experiments to see which ice-lolly melts the fastest.

We’re not experiencing that problem; in fact we’ve had the usual struggle to fit everything we wanted to cover in the magazine. For a start, there’s a typically entertaining account by Mal of a day trip to Slimbridge. There’s a chat with stand-up beyond compère, Mark Olver; a look at the seemingly endless new venues springing up across the city, and a celebration of the growing trend for all-day cafés/bars, where you can order both coffee and cocktails, or, if you really can’t decide which one to go for, have an espresso martini and have done with it.

That should take you nicely into late August, when we’ll be starting to get all the back-to-school autumn feels, and nobody will need to mention the Bristol crocodile for another twelve months.

DERI ROBINS Follow us on Twitter @BristolLifeMag Instagram @BristolLifeMag

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10 Issue 303 / August 2021 COVER Sir Frank Bowling in his studio; photo by Sacha Bowling

DAY TRIPPER

10 SLIMBRIDGE Hanging with the waders

ARTS

17 ARTS INTRO Can street art save the planet?

18 WHAT’S ON Summer stock 22 ART Sir Frank Bowling, modern master 30 COMEDY It’s that nice Mark Olver...

32 PHOTOGRAPHY Le vie en Bristol

FOOD & DRINK

36 RESTAURANT Kloster-love 40 COFFEE AND COCKTAILS Double shot 48 NEW VENUES Watch this space 53 RECIPE NEW! Regular columnist Phil Haughton 55 CAFÉ SOCIETY Admittedly not so new, but always

tasty, Stan Cullimore

SHOPPING

56 EDITOR’S CHOICE Dogs or cats? Maybe both?

59 WINDOW SHOPPING The right stripes

17

LIFESTYLE

61 HEALTH & BEAUTY Love your body

BUSINESS

63 BRISTOLWORKS White-collar Bristol

PROPERTY

71 PROPERTY NEWS Bladerunner brought you ‘off-

world’. Now Zump brings you ‘off-market’

73 JACK HEAD Remortgage to remodel?

74 SHOWCASE A home so historic and important that

even the doors have names

REGULARS

6 SPOTLIGHT 9 BRIZZOGRAM 90 BRISTOL LIVES Laura Kidd, aka Penfriend

48 Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Mal Rogers, Colin Moody, Stan Cullimore, Milly Vaughan, Jack Head, George Maguire Advertising manager Neil Snow neil.snow@mediaclash.co.uk New business manager Craig Wallberg craig.wallberg@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Jake Horwood jake.horwood@mediaclash.co.uk Production/distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah. kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager/production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@ mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bristol Life MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

We’re a West Country-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter. Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

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SPOTLIGHT Festival

HANDS HIGH WHEN WE FLY BY

It’s been a summer of compromises, with many beloved Bristol events being tweaked or cancelled altogether. Faring better than most is the Bristol Balloon Fiesta, which will be going ahead – just not as you know it.

In a new partnership with Costa Coffee, the festival will hold a Fiesta Fortnight between 2-15 August, with mass ascents, special shapes (including Stuart the Minion, shown left), and fly-bys. Hundreds of hot air balloons will take off from different locations, but there’ll be no big event for the masses at Ashton Court.

Over 700 people have responded to the Fiesta’s invitation to suggest launch locations for the balloons; keep an eye on the Fiesta’s social media channels to find out when and where the balloons will be flying.

To complement the festival, Costa Coffee will launch a Live Experience Pod in the city centre, with new Costa Express machines serving hot and iced drinks.

For more bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk

#LoveBristol

D.I.S.C.O.

Courtesy of the ever-creative Bristol City Centre BID, yet more glittering hardware has appeared across the city to celebrate the final stages of businesses reopening. This giant pink heart on King Street was the first to appear, followed by disco balls on Corn Street, St Nicholas Street, Harbourside and Frogmore Street.

The bespoke installations have been designed to send twinkling lights into Bristol’s pedestrianised and low traffic areas, both during daytime, when the glittery bits (technical term) reflect the sun, and at night, when they’re illuminated.

The balls represent the latest part of the #LoveBristol campaign that began in June last year, when large hearts were painted in parks by Upfest.

Recently, the Love Songs to the City street banners, now also illuminated, have invited us to sing along (extroverts) or hum quietly (introverts) to some of the world’s most famous love songs while we’re out in the city centre.

Each location of the #LoveBristol disco balls and Love Songs banners can be found on the Visit Bristol website, as well as a Spotify playlist to complement the lyrics on the streets.

For more bristolcitycentrebid.co.uk

Leisure

MOVE ON UP

Charity

MAN ON THE EDGE

We’re not sure we’d look quite as cheerful as Marvin Rees if we were about to step backwards off a 242ft building, so props to our mayor for helping to raise over £38,000 for St Peter’s Hospice by abseiling down Castlemead this month.

St Peter’s is the only adult hospice caring for local people with lifelimiting illnesses; the state-of-the-art centre was built with Bristolians’ support, to support Bristolians.

“The Hospice is an amazing Bristol charity, supporting people in our area when they need it the most. It’s touched the lives of hundreds of families, and it’s an honour to be able to do anything to show my support,” said Marvin.

Fancy taking on your own fundraisingchallenge? “We’ve seen so many incredible efforts over the last year or so; if you’re feeling inspired, just go for it!” says St Peter’s Hospice events fundraiser Hayley Ali. To take on your own challenge, visit stpetershospice.org

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

Through it’s imminent move to Wild Place, Bristol Zoo has an incredible opportunity to create a thoroughly modern, forward-looking, worldleading zoo for the South West, with spacious facilities, significant growth in conservation and education work, and an innovative visitor experience. To this end, they’ve appointed an award-winning team of architects, designers, engineers and environmental experts to bring the dream to life.

Pioneering landscape architects Grant Associates, whose work includes the world-famous Gardens by the Bay in Singapore, Bristol Harbourside (shown right) and the YTL Brabazon project in Filton, have been appointed lead designers and landscape architects. Throughout their work, the company aims to reconnect people with nature in insightful and distinctive ways, while addressing the global challenges of urbanisation, the climate crisis and biodiversity extinction.

The Zoo has also appointed architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, who also have an international reputation for design quality, environmental expertise and a progressive approach.

The Zoo has previously worked with both companies on the development of a new conservation research centre in Madagascar, where conservationists work to protect threatened lemurs and their habitat in the wild.

For more bristolzoo.org.uk

SPOTLIGHT

LORD OF THE WINGS

While Slimbridge (page 10) may be the ultimate twitcher’s paradise, the endless avian activity at Harbourside, in city parks, and even on suburban rooftops, guarantee that every Bristol day is a happy bird-day...

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FLOCK The rarest goose in the world, whistling ducks and six species of flamingos: MAL ROGERS hangs with the waders during a flying visit to Slimbridge

On our block, all of the guys call her flamingo...

10 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

TACTICS

DAY TRIPPER

D

ucks and geese – well, you can see them anywhere, can’t you? From farmyards to city parks, you’ll find a gaggle here, a squad there, a skein overhead.

But since 1946, Slimbridge Wetland Centre has backed these waders to pull in mega-crowds.

It’s worked out very well. You might be able to see mallards and Canada geese at the village duck pond, but Slimbridge can top that with the rarest goose in the world — the nene (originally from Hawaii), several species of flamingo, and many thousands of longdistance feathered migrants who use Slimbridge as a pit-stop.

In 2019, this extravaganza of wildfowl attracted 270,000 visitors to the Severn Estuary wetlands, and just short of a million visitors across all of the WWT’s nine centres – spread across the UK from Norfolk to Northern Ireland. As lockdown continues to ease, these numbers are expected to increase, with people eager to see the avocets, the redshanks, the ruffs.

Naturally, there’s more to the story than just allowing waders to hang out and giving them birdseed.

Peter Scott, son of Scott of the Antarctic, set up Slimbridge, in order to further research, conservation and education. But the wily Scott was sure that the centre needed to provide one other amenity – recreation. This, as it turned out, may have been the winning factor in the success of the centre.

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DAY TRIPPER The fledgling conservation movement worldwide was beginning to advance after the Second World War. The overwhelming ethos was to turn away from the Victorian idea of providing cheap thrills for the punters, and towards science. But Peter Scott realised that to survive you still needed to appeal to the public. To that end, Slimbridge focused on crowd-pleasing measures in tandem with its research programmes.

Today that philosophy remains.

The centre has an unsurpassed collection of captive wildfowl. On an average visit you can get very neighbourly with an East Indian wandering whistling duck (yes, it does both), a hooded merganser, a Russian whitefronted goose, or various plovers, turnstones, curlews and godwits – the list is as lengthy as it is impressive.

‘Captive’ can be misleading here, as the majority of birds in and around Slimbridge are not in any way prevented from clearing off whenever they want. But what they do know is that the centre dishes out generous helpings of grain every day to any winged creature that happen to be in the vicinity.

Feeding time is a hugely impressive sight.

The element of entertainment and leisure stretches to many parts of the nature reserve, which is as family-friendly as it is bird-orientated. Activities range from differentiating between the six species of flamingo, to bundling aboard a canoe safari to explore the ponds and backwaters of the reserve.

You can dress up as a frog (children only, sadly) and head for the watery playground, Welly Boot Land where splashing about is actively encouraged. The Riverlife play area provides swings and slides; again, children only. And this is all on top of the bird-spotting and duck-feeding.

On my recent visit, down a boardwalk through reed-beds, I found myself face to face with a moorhen anxious to show off her several chicks. I had a bag of approved grain with me, so myself and the mother moorhen spent a hugely enjoyable quarter of an hour feeding her young.

In truth, you’d be hard put to fit everything into one day in Slimbridge.

“A freshwater tank with a glass front allows you to watch the finest display of ducking and diving since Only Fools and Horses” Particularly when you factor in the otters, hares, amphibians, damselflies, dragonflies, frogs, toads, grass snakes, water voles and harvest mice who call this idyllic corner of Gloucester home.

To make sure you don’t miss anything, Slimbridge has just launched ‘Wetland Heroes’, a free app developed in partnership with Aardman. This cunning mix of science, imagination and ingenuity allows you to explore the full extent of the centre, particularly the lesser known areas.

Soon enough you’ll find it’s feeding time for you too. A cracking restaurant, the Kingfisher Kitchen, gives unsurpassed views across the marshes, mudflats and reed beds.

I like to think that the compiler of one of the great crossword clues of all time was sitting here enjoying a coffee and gazing out over the wetlands.

Slowly, the cryptic poser took form: “’Dis duck or ’dat duck? (5 letters)” ran the clue.

Full marks if you got the answer: ‘eider’.

Yes, you’ll see plenty of them at Slimbridge too. n A hooded merganser, ready for his close-up; top: That’s Sprout the pelican

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The Slimbridge Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre in Gloucestershire is open daily from 9.30am to 5pm, adults £10.35, children (4-16) £5.60, including Gift Aid donation; 01453 891900, wwt.org.uk

The Theatre and Aviary

SWANNING ABOUT THE SLIMBRIDGE ATTRACTIONS TASTY MUD

LORD LOVE A DUCK

Out in the estuary, many birds eschew the ready meals lovingly prepared at the centre. After all, according to a helpful information board at the Estuary Tower, a square metre of Severn mud holds the same food energy as 13 Mars Bars. The calories are in the worms and snails that live just under the surface.

Because of this rich nourishment, the Severn Estuary hereabouts is the des res of over 60,000 wading birds from curlews to cranes, and not forgetting spoonbills, wheeling flocks of lapwing and fieldfares.

In the winter, thousands of Bewick’s swans arrive from Siberia.

From the top level of the Estuary Tower you’ll be able to spot any number of these. In total there are 13 hides on the reserve; you’ll undoubtedly come across a handful of twitchers dead set on spotting a bar-tailed godwit, but you’ll also exchange glances with herons languidly fishing in the marshes.

The duck decoy apparatus – basically a big netted tunnel – is used to catch ducks, give them a health check, and attach an identification tag to see where they’re headed. The centre lavishes unimaginable care on its wildfowl, as is only proper.

The process of duck rounding-up largely depends on the herding prowess of the warden’s dog, who guides the birds into the decoy nets. You can watch it all from the nearby hide.

You’d think the ducks would rebel at being hounded into a net – even though it’s for their own good – but they don’t seem to protest that much. And the dog hugely enjoys himself. Good boy.

NOT A WILD GOOSE CHASE During the 1950s the nene (also known as the Hawaiian goose) was close to extinction due to the introduction of predators and the loss of habitat in Hawaii. With just 30 nenes left, Sir Peter Scott began to successfully breed them in captivity and release them back into the wild – the world population is now 3,000. You can find out all about it at the Mission Possible site at the centre.

DEEP DIVE INTO THE HABITATS The new Living Wetlands and Waterscapes Aviary is home to avocets, smew, egrets and many more.

Now we’re not talking an average-sized aviary here. This construction, still being developed, is so big you could get lost in its luxuriant vegetation.

The four microhabitats of the Severn are represented:

estuary, pond, reed and wooded wetland.

A freshwater tank with a glass front, like an aquarium, allows you to watch the finest display of ducking and diving since Only Fools and Horses.

BIRD BRAINS There is a wide disparity in the intelligence of birds. Members of the crow family are supremely intelligent, up there with the chimpanzees in their ability to solve problems. There are of course some intellectually disappointing birds, and we’ll not name them here.

But a handful of Slimbridge specimens rival the ravens and the jackdaws in their ability to respond to humans, and think outside the birdbox. Two free-flying pink-backed pelicans, Sprout and Sky, put on a show regularly at the Living Wetland Theatre. In the outdoor mini-amphitheatre, Sprout will fly over the crowds from his many vantage points to pick up a tasty morsel from one of the wardens; Sky seems to be noticeably shyer but does make an appearance. On a good day they get up to all sorts, including coming into the crowd and getting to know their audience up close.

NOTE 1: The limerick seems to be true – a pelican’s beak really can hold more that its belly can.

NOTE 2: Magpie geese and crown cranes also put on shows at the Living Wetland Theatre.

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t: 0117 279 0980 | m: 07956 846307 e: simon@bristolcityroofing.co.uk

www. bristolcityroofing.co.uk

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

GOOD SPRAY DAY

There’s only one thing more purely Bristol than street art, and that’s street art that actively combats pollution by sucking carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Not science fiction, but an actual thing, thanks to carbon-absorbing Graphenstone paint – demonstrated here by Jody on a pop-up canvas on Centre Promenade. The mural, commissioned by Lindeman’s Wine, whose European range has just been certified carbonneutral, is estimated to have absorbed an incredible 2.6kg of CO2.

Don’t go looking for it in the city centre now, though; the mural has now been donated to Flipside Cocktail Club on Whiteladies Road For more: jodyart.co.uk

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g

cool pics, you’d be goddamn right. americanmuseum.org

Until 3 January

ISLAND LIFE Head to Bristol Museum for this fascinating exhibition of photos showing the UK at play, protest and leisure over nearly a century. Also showing: James Barnor’s Ghanaian Modernist, and Lips Touched with Blood

by Sarah Waiswa; bristolphotofestival.org IN PROGRESS Solo exhibitions by five innovative photographers working today; Laia Abril, Hoda Afshar, Widline Cadet, Adama Jalloh and Alba Zari. Part of Bristol Photo Fest. At Royal Photographic Society, rps.org

Until 6 January

VAREKI (WHEREVER) RWA tours a selection of vibrant artworks to community venues across Bristol, as a pop-up while the gallery’s closed for refurb; rwa.org.uk

SHOWS Until 8 August

OUTLIER Bristol Old Vic’s critically acclaimed, genre-defying ‘gig theatre’ ft. the poetics of Malaika Kegode and soaring music of Jakabol has an extended on-demand run for you to enjoy at home; bristololdvic.org.uk

Until 26 August

WHAT’S ON 30 July-30 August 2021

ART

Ongoing

UPFEST Over 75 days, 75 walls are being painted by artists on the streets of Bedminster. upfest.co.uk

Until 7 August

LGBTQ+ FACES OF BRISTOL Photographer Karen Freer’s project to empower the LGBTQ+ community in Bristol, ensuring that everyone has positive representation. Tobacco Factory, and online; tobaccofactory.com

Until 29 August

CHLOE DEWE MATHEWS:

THAMES LOG From the source of the Thames to its mouth, photos capturing a range of rituals and routines at the water’s edge; at Martin Parr Foundation, martinparrfoundation.org

Until 31 August

STAYCATION Room 212 celebrates the great British holiday, with images from Bristol to Cornwall, from original paintings and prints to ceramics and jewellery. room212.co.uk

Until 5 September

VERONICA RYAN: ALONG A SPECTRUM

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

The largest solo exhibition to date by Veronica. spikeisland.org.uk

Until 26 September

FRANK BOWLING A major exhibition with one of Britain’s greatest living abstract painters; see page 22. At Arnolfini, arnolfini.org.uk

Until 31 October

VANGUARD Mega street art exhibition at M Shed celebrating the role of Bristol’s creatives in the development of UK street art, with rare works and brandnew pieces. bristolmuseums.org.uk SHOOTING STARS Rare candid snaps of the world’s most iconic stars, taken during the 1970s by Carinthia West. And yes, if you think we squeezed in an out-oftown show at the American Museum just so we could use some of the

BRISTOL SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL The bardfest returns at full strength, indoors and outdoors, with trad, experimental and quirky shows, online events and workshops, bristolshakespearefestival.org.uk

6 August

IVO GRAHAM The apologetic posh-boy stand-up brings his studiously gauche charm and crafty wit to the Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com

7 August - 2 October

THE MIX Wardrobe Ensemble launch a summer-long theatre festival in the pop-up Theatre on the Downs; drama, circus, poetry and more.

Tickets at bristololdvic.org.uk

11-12, 17-18, 25 August

CANDLELIGHT The seemingly endless series of concerts and ballets continues at Bristol Museum, this time with Beethoven, Chopin, Mozart,

WHAT’S ON ROCK’N’ROLL WALKING TOUR (SUNDAYS) Take a walk around Bristol’s iconic music venues, past and present, and hear tales of the famous bands that played them; facebook.com/ Bristolrockandrollwalkingtour

1-15 August

Until 1 August

5-8 August

BRISTOL BALLOON FIESTA Balloons will take to the skies this summer, as part of the inaugural Fiesta Flypast, but no big event at Ashton Court. More details on page 6; bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk

CINEMA REDISCOVERED Watershed’s annual film fest showcases new restorations, contemporary classics and film print rarities; screened in and around Bristol; watershed.co.uk

opposite page:

Barton Hill yoofs by Carrie Hitchcock, at Vanguard; above: A refreshing cool spell? Chris Killip at Island Life; below: Eric and George by Carinthia West

Tchaikovsky and some classic film scores, though not all on the same night. feverup.com/bristol

13 August

TEZ ILYAS Fresh from the release of his teenage memoir The Secret Diary of a British Muslim Aged 13 3/4 (we see what he did there), Tez Ilyas heads to Wardrobe to try out some new material. thewardrobetheatre.com

The theatre walks are back, from Crime & Crinolines in Clifton to Blood & Butchery in Bemmie, Bloody Blackbeard and Buccaneers in the centre, and the new The Mansion Through Time: At Home With The Smyths at Ashton Court; check website for full list and times. Good fun. showofstrength.org.uk

BRISTOL CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Sample the best of the world’s beers, both from local breweries and national and international big hitters, with local food outlets and live music from the finest local DJs; bristolcraftbeerfestival.co.uk VALLEY FEST The family-friendly, eco-conscious, foodie-heaven fest returns to put the chew in Chew Magna, with Deacon Blue, Texas and Sophie Ellis-Bextor on the main stage. valleyfest.co.uk

VOLKFEST Bristol’s grass roots VW show and camping weekend returns to Wild Country Lane; bristolvolksfest.co.uk.

FILM & FOOD FEST The Bristol leg of the new socially spacious festival: outdoor cinema with classic movies and new releases, stand-up comedy, local street food and short films from regional film makers. filmandfoodfest.com

11-30 August

MUSEUM OF THE MOON Luke Jerram’s mega 7m Moon with its 20dpi detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface finally makes it to Bristol Cathedral, with surroundsound composition by Dan Jones. bristol-cathedral.co.uk n

13-14 August

BACK TO BERLIN It’s 1989. The Berlin Wall is coming down, the world is changing rapidly, and Bernhard is sat at home in England. But not for much longer . . .

CB4 Theatre use theatre, multimedia, and ensemble movement to explore the past and interrogate the present. at Alma Tavern, almatavernandtheatre.co.uk

18-21 August

RICHARD II Somewhere between Mad Max: Fury Road, an episode of Game of Thrones and an environmental movement, Quandary Collective’s Richard II blends Shakespeare’s text with visceral movement and live electronic music. At Eastville Park Swimming Pool, eventbrite.co.uk

25 August-18 September

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST You loved the animation, you sneakily enjoyed the live movie, now marvel at the tale as old as time on stage, as Disney’s Olivier Award-winning musical invites you to be their guest at the Hippodrome; atgtickets.com

OTHER Ongoing

SHOW OF STRENGTH

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SPONSORED CONTENT

SUMMER STOCK

CLARKS VILLAGE: The perfect place to visit this summer

I

f you’re looking for a place to visit this summer, look no further than Clarks Village. Less than an hour from Bristol, the outdoor Somerset shopping outlet is the ideal visitor destination whether you’re holidaying in the area, passing through or looking for a day trip with a difference.

Located in Street, Clarks Village mixes modern shopping with the effortless calm of the countryside. You’ll be wowed at the mix of coveted brands offering discounts of up to 60% off RRP within a relaxed, outdoor environment. With award-winning landscaped gardens and wide-paved walkways, Clarks Village offers a truly unique and refreshing shopping experience.

One of Somerset’s top visitor destinations, Clarks Village opened in 1993 and was the UK’s first outlet centre. Clarks Village continues to evolve, bringing exciting new brands including Levi’s, Vans, The North Face, Hotel Chocolat, Le Creuset, Haribo, Bedeck, Barbour and Molton Brown and many more. Whether you’re looking for high fashion, homeware, beauty, footwear or sports and outdoorwear, Clarks Village is the place for you.

Children can enjoy the forest-themed adventure play park with bridges, tunnels, climbing walls and swings. Until the end of August, families can hunt for their favourite superheroes with an augmented reality trail, and over four weekends, life-size superhero statues will make a visit even more memorable. While you’re here, you can also pick up a pair of school shoes from the largest Clarks in the world.

Refuel in our cafés, late-opening restaurants and ‘grab & go’ kiosks, or take some time out in our newly redeveloped Central Square Gardens, offering a tranquil haven in the heart of the centre. Clarks Village is also one of the greenest shopping centres in the UK, with solar panels, coffee waste recycling, water fountain and refill points along with EV charging bays, and won the Green Apple award for environment and waste management. n

Visit Clarks Village in Street, under 25 minutes from the A303 or the M5, or follow the A37 onto the A39 from Bristol.

For details, visit clarksvillage.co.uk

“I believe that Frank’s visionary approach, and his use of paint and surface texture, have changed the practice of painting”

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

PIGMENT OF THE IMAGINATION A new exhibition at Arnolfini, Land of Many Waters celebrates the art of ‘modern master’ Sir Frank Bowling OBE. In an exclusive interview with Bristol Life, Ben Bowling helps to put his father’s extraordinary career into context . . .

Words by Deri Robins Photos by Lisa Whiting www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 23

THE BIG INTERVIEW

S

ir Richard Sheridan Franklin Bowling OBE RA is a Guyana-born British artist who came to England aged 19 as part of the Windrush generation – a journey he has described as ‘coming home’.

This might seem odd for someone born and brought up thousands of miles away on a small corner of the South American continent. But London is Turner’s town, as far as Frank Bowling is concerned, and the place where he became acquainted with works by Constable and Gainsborough.

In the 1950s, England was a completely different place to the one we know today. There was still national service, for one thing, and while serving in the RAF, Frank was encouraged by a friend to go to art school.

In the services he’d faced predictably entrenched racist attitudes – largely speaking, mirroring society in general.

In contrast, the art world was open-minded, accepting, and curious of new styles, new painters, new experiences.

Frank won a scholarship to the Royal College of Art in 1959 and originally trained as a figurative painter, learning about geometry and studying the science of colour. A distinctive style began to take shape. He graduated in 1962, and was awarded the silver medal in painting (a chap named David Hockney took the gold).

As it happened, Frank found that he almost became a hostage to ‘reverse racism’. As his son Ben Bowling, explains, “There’s no doubt that racism was, and still is, a problem in wider society. Alongside that, people were trying to pigeonhole Frank and his work, expecting him to paint some kind of ‘protest art’ around the postcolonial discussions happening in the early ’60s.

“But even then, as now, his main focus was on painting, not politics. Frank’s real concern is with the activity of painting itself; he’s interested in technique and materiality, not identity.” Indeed, in interviews, Frank is on record as stressing that he’s not a ‘Black artist’. “I’m an artist,” he says.

Even in the formative days of his career, abstraction had begun to appear in Frank’s work. Ben says this comes from his father’s deep knowledge and appreciation of the Old Masters, going as far as to say that abstract art really began with them.

“He’ll take you to the National Gallery or the Tate and say, ‘look at the edges of that Titian’; or, ‘look at what’s going on in Turner’s paintings’. Look at them, and you’ll see they’re works of abstraction.

“He felt constrained by the figurative work, so when he moved to New York in 1966, and encountered the colour-field painters and abstract expressionism, I think he felt liberated, that anything was possible. He was heavily influenced by New York; it was the frontline of artistic aspiration back then.”

Coming back to London in the mid-1970s brought Frank back to the English landscape tradition, to the Old Masters, but having studios in both cities gave him the best of both worlds.

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Exhibitions producer Gemma Brace with Sir Frank and Frederick Bowling at the preview

BOWLING AND BRISTOL

Frank’s first time in Bristol proved to be a key moment in the artist’s early career, as Ben Bowling explains, “Frank came to Bristol just before the Christmas of 1958. When he got here, he had no place to stay, so he rang his friend Bill Gibson. Bill found him a bed for the night, adding ‘You can’t miss it, the house is on Whiteladies Road, on Black Boy’s Hill.’ Frank said, ‘We all thought this was absolutely hilarious and collapsed with laughter’.

“Frank stayed in Bristol for around three months, until Easter 1959. It was during his time that he applied to the Royal College of Art in London.

He had enough natural talent to be able to get in without taking an exam….”

“In London he was able to connect with his painterly roots in the English landscape tradition, and in New York he was engaging with post-painterly abstraction, and the greats of American abstract painting. But in many ways, he was always doing his own thing.”

‘His own thing’ embraced a variety of techniques, and a range of influences.

“From the mid-1960s onwards, when Frank stopped using traditional oil paint and began to experiment with a broader range of materials and techniques, his practice has been one of constant experimentation. Staining, pouring, spraying, screen-printing, stitching, cropping, masking, using acrylic gel, glitter, pearlescent and fluorescent paints and unstretched, unprimed canvas.

He’s always risking things with the old procedures and constantly trying to push it over the edge, and looking for what will surprise him in the work.”

Ben says that Frank’s recognition as a ‘modern master’ has come late in the day, considering he spent six decades innovating and experimenting with new materials and techniques – and at the age of 87 he’s still doing it. He is adamant that his father’s work has had a seminal influence on the world of art. “I believe that his visionary approach and use of paint and surface texture have changed the practice of painting,” he says. n Land of Many Waters continues at Arnolfini until 26 September 2021. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 6pm, free entry.

clockwise: Pouring

over 2 Morrison Boys & 2 Map 1; Oriented Light; Ella and Her Mum Zoe’s Visit

THE SHOW

Ben Bowling

As Arnolfini’s exhibitions producer Gemma Brace explains, Land of Many Waters focuses on the last ten years of Frank’s career. The show’s title has a resonance with the Guyanese landscape that has haunted his long career; indeed, the name Guyana comes from the Amerindian for ‘land of many waters’.

Gemma is thrilled with the entire exhibition, but has her favourite pieces. “Every time I look, I see something new and am drawn to a different work,” she says. “But there are two works – Oriented Light and Penumbral Lite – that have felt particularly special to me from the moment I saw them in the studio last year. They bleed and seep and swirl, as colour washes into colour creating messy tidal lines that scatter from left to right, and both works emanate transparency. They let the light in and through; a sensation that appears to preoccupy much of Bowling’s work made last summer.”

Ben Bowling has his favourites, too.

“I love Ella and Her Mum Zoe’s Visit. It’s like an abstract version of a Turner ‘history painting’, filled with drama and light and action.

And when you get very close to the painting you can see what’s going on at the surface: the acrylic gel and drips, but also all the found objects, including a child’s woolly glove.”

Ben feels that Arnolfini has done full justice to his father’s genius.

“I arrived in Bristol and went straight from Temple Meads railway station to Arnolfini.

Walking into the first gallery I was awestruck; it actually gave me goosebumps.

“It was an emotional time for my dad, who hadn’t seen many of the works since he made them, some from more than a decade ago.

Gemma and her team have done a brilliant job in curating this exhibition. Everything about it – the hang, the interpretation, the look and feel of the show and the catalogue – is simply fantastic.”

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

CARRY ON GLAMPING The best glamping sites around for you to enjoy this summer

WIGWAM HOLIDAYS

GREAT TREGATH, CAMELFORD. CORNWALL, PL32 9TX TEL: 07745 990316 WIGWAMHOLIDAYS.COM/GREAT-TREGATH

BE WILDER CAMPS

TEL: 07738 071534; BE-WILDER.CO.UK/BOOK The Be Wilder Campsites are a new type of camping experience focused on rewilding the land and connecting with nature.

The first site is opening this summer and nestles amongst the rolling hills of the lush Somerset countryside, halfway between the vibrant towns of Frome and Bruton. Stay in one of our beautiful Tipis, Yurts or Safari Bell Tents and participate in the daily programme of workshops and activities based around ecology and wellbeing. There’s something for the whole family, including kids club, forest school, yoga and bushcraft, campfire songs and storytelling, foraging walks, pizza-making workshops, and cooking on the campfire. We have a special 15% discount exclusively for Bristol Life readers. Just add in the discount code: BEWILDBRISTOL when you book online.

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

Discover your perfect glamping holiday at Wigwam® Holidays Great Tregath. Four miles from the spectacular North Cornwall coast, framed by rural farmland, and the extinct volcano ‘Rough Tor’, Craig and Julie welcome couples, families, groups and their dogs to their luxury glamping cabins. Escape from a busy life awaits with an en-suite shower and toilet and a well-equipped kitchenette in all cabins. Outside, enjoy the use of the complimentary firebowl within a private patio with picnic bench. Two of the cabins are also available with wood-fired hot tubs as an optional extra, set alongside your cabin, for ultimate luxury and relaxation.

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For glamping with that little bit extra book a stay with us.

Whether you are looking for a family holiday or a couple’s escape we’ve got everything you need: forest walks from the park; a well-stocked shop with off-licence and take away food; full facilities including a camper’s kitchen; swimming pool and sauna; games room; tennis court; badminton lawn and outdoor table tennis. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty from which you can visit the coast and moors, head to the cities of Exeter or Taunton, sample excellent local food and drink or visit a tourist attraction. Our cosy camping pods sleep up to four, maximum three adults, and are a great alternative to camping.

BICKLEIGH, TIVERTON, EX16 8RA TEL: 07967 998684; EXEVALLEYGLAMPING.COM Somewhere between Dartmoor and Exmoor, almost midway between the beaches of Devon’s southern and northern coastlines, is Exe Valley Glamping. Book here and you’ll need to set your sat nav for the village of Bickleigh. That’s as far as four wheels will get you. After that, it’s a five-minute stroll through woodland to reach the site’s luxurious but eco-friendly, family-orientated safari lodges. With four stylish and carefully designed canvas safari tents, each accommodating six people between three bedrooms, it’s suited to those looking for comfort surrounded by nature. A magical glamping location for couples, families and friends looking to enjoy the rustic beauty of the West Country without compromising on comfort.

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THE YURT RETREAT

Wixoldbury Farm Glamping is a luxury glamping site set in a quiet secluded location on a 40-acre working farm in South Gloucestershire. Surrounded by farmland, the site has five luxury glamping pods to choose from, ranging from a shepherd hut which sleeps two up to the larger more luxury cabins. All accommodation is en-suite, with kitchen and cooking facilities.

Wixoldbury Farm is perfect for for couples looking for a romantic getaway or to enjoy local walks, and equally families wanting to enjoy outdoor farm life.

FORDS CROFT FARM, CREWKERNE TA18 7TU TEL: 07773 505671; THEYURTRETREAT.CO.UK Sitting on an idyllic organic farm backed by woodland, The Yurt Retreat offers adults-only boutique glamping. Whether you’re dreaming of a cosy bed under canvas and roaring fires, watching deer graze the woods from your treehouse windows or sharing a hot tub under the stars in your private garden we‘ve got the property for you. Located in South Somerset, near the Devon and Dorset border, we are just a 30-minute drive away from the Jurassic coast for a visit to the sea. Take a stroll to the awardwinning Lord Poulett Arms in nearby Hinton St George, or light up your firebowl and toast marshmallows. Once you relax in this romantic spot you might find it hard to leave!

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

Connect to Nature Camp in Comfort

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BEYOND COMPÈRE The host with the most is back, with a good oldfashioned comedy club night up at The Pergola Words Deri Robins Photo Ben Robins

M ark Olver, or ‘that nice Mark Olver’ as we always think of him at Bristol Life, Life, is an amiable star on the local comedy scene. He’s a bornand-bred Brislington boy, who famously once shared a house with Bristol comedians Russell Howard, John Robins and Jon Richardson; a nugget that will probably still be trotted out when they’re in their eighties.

Mark began doing stand-up in the late 1990s, soon specialising in compèring. His work has long had a community focus – at one point he taught comedy to young offenders.

In 2017 he came up with the idea for the Belly Laughs series of pop-up gigs, held in Bristol restaurants, with the twin objects of boosting trade for local hospitality and raising money for homeless charities.

During lockdown in May 2020, he took the show online with Belly Laughs at Home, Home, raising over £33k for FareShare South West, Julian Trust, Bristol Old Vic, and Great Western Air Ambulance Charity.

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And now the big guy’s back, hosting the new Comedy Clubs in the Pergola at Breaking Bread. So what’s that all about then, Mark?

For the few who don’t know you, kindly introduce yourself…

I don’t expect everyone to know me. Well, apart from people who work in fast-food places, restaurants and cinemas in Bristol.

They should definitely know who I am because I’m there enough.

“Audiences in Bristol are fun, forgiving, a bit silly” How did you first get into this biz we call show?

I loved comedy from a young age. When I graduated from uni and came back to Bristol I was at a loose end. I went to an open-mic comedy night, loved it, watched people do well and people do badly, and realised I wanted to try it. So I did. And 23 years later, I’m still trying to work it out.

It was also the gig I MCd for the first time, and I just fell in love with that part of it. And so warm-up and compèring takes up most of my time now.

When we last spoke, you were hosting Belly Laughs at Home – do you plan to

continue the Belly Laughs shows?

Absolutely! We still do some charity things with FareShare and other people who need a little comedy night. But come next January, for anyone who fancies a crazy night of food and comedy, we will absolutely be doing it again.

Can’t wait.

How did you spend lockdown?

There was no telly or comedy work. I walked a lot. I did an online panel show, some more comedy online for charity, more walking. And I worked in a care home.

How did you get involved with the Pergola at Breaking Bread?

I put out word that I wanted to do some outside comedy shows when the rules relaxed last summer. A few venues got back to me, we had lots of fun, and Breaking Bread was the one that was the most successful, selling out every week. So when they asked for me this year it made total sense.

How often are the comedy shows at The Pergola, and what format do they take?

It’s a good old-fashioned club night. Three comedians, compère. The Pergola is an amazing space for comedy. And people seem to love them; the feedback has been amazing.

Which acts have you lined up for the immediate future?

Some brilliant people. Sara Barron, who has done a bit of telly recently, and Toussaint Douglass, who you’re going to see loads of soon. Robin Morgan is MCing a lot; he’s great.

So many. I’m really excited.

COMEDY

A lot of very funny acts have come from Bristol – is there a strong comedy scene here, and if so, why do you think that is?

We have an amazing scene. One of the best. I think it’s because we have lots of time to play, experiment, and the audiences in Bristol are fun, forgiving, a bit silly. We are very lucky.

Best gig you’ve ever done?

It’s a tricky question. Best? Not sure but spending two weeks doing tv warm up in Rio for the Paralympics in 2016 was amazing.

And the worst?

I once did a gig for two people in a rough pub, and the venue was so bad that I took both audience members out for a drive in my car.

Comedy Club runs on selective dates at The Pergola; for full information see breakingbreadbristol.co.uk

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

THE MAGIC BOX These days, we take photography for granted.

One snap of a phone or camera, and the image is permanently captured. But this wasn’t always the case. Let’s pretend we’re seeing Bristol today through the lens of the very earliest photographers…

Words and pictures by Colin Moody

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BRISTOL HEROES

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ustave Le Gray has been called the most important photographer of the 19th century. Le Gray was born in 1820 near Paris, and trained there as a painter. Around 1847 he took up photography, becoming one of the most renowned pioneers of the new art. His architectural, landscape and portrait photographs, his writings, teaching and inventions were all highly influential.

Just imagine that you could go back to the dawn of photography. Paris in the 1840s, or thereabouts.

Lugging a great wooden box with a lens and some holes in it, a box of glass plates primed and ready to go, and a trailblazing pep in your step. Imagine if you could capture the world’s first street photography . . .

So, let’s pretend, just for fun, that we were one of those photography pioneers, pouring out from our homemade laboratories of light to capture modernday Bristol and the South West. Let’s just imagine how we might look through those early lenses. Colour-free, over- and undersaturated with light, defined perfect edges all blurred and bent a little out of true. Maybe we’ll see something new in that fog.

I present to you here eight wonders of our age.

Eight little worlds brought to you by the latest process called pho-to-graphy. Allowing us to capture the kind of scenes that would take painters hours of easel time, but which now, for the first time, can be caught in just a few minutes. Think what insight this might mean to the human race. So drop your tuppence in the tin on the way in, and marvel at the wonder of you.

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“It would have been a glorious hell to see the metal hammered and the sparks flying, the future marked out by the new heartbeat of the rivet makers”

As a 21st-century photographer with the whole world just a screen away, I’m amazed at this long-ago world of early photography, when people were first able to reach out and touch these precious things they called photographs. With this newfangled photography we’d be like children with a new toy, marking out our first steps in this new light. Through these magical wooden boxes we can free the whole lightness of being to soar as high as we dare.

Maybe a couple could have stood on Clevedon Pier, just like this, and their friend with a camera could have preserved them there forever. Long after their time had run away to nothing, this power stays in the photograph.

Wind that family album back as far as it will go and look at the sepia faces. They were all alive, just like we are, once. They breathed in and out just as we do, looking at this old world that right here, right now, is born into life again.

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This was Birnbeck pier. Long ago. 2015. Almost gone. Clouds of the kind you might expect in a painting of some mediaeval siege. A godless place, home only to birds.

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And here we are now, on a cusp. The big leviathans of the age are about to set sail. Brunel has been hard at work, down in our newly built docks.

If you thought the mighty ship, itself half in shadow here, was impressive, just imagine if some early French photographer had taken shots of the machines they constructed to build the thing.

I met a ship’s captain once, who remarked it would

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

BRISTOL HEROES have been a glorious hell to see the metal hammered and the sparks flying, the future marked out by the new heartbeat of the rivet makers. Alas, no pictures exist. But we do have this shot of an early steam tug about to help it out to sea.

Well. That’s a lie. This was 2015, but it felt like it might be back then, just for just a second.

And I’m imagining the hard labour that could have been captured.

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The city takes on a new feeling after dark.

It is indeed a city of two halves.

Ideas and desires awake that were not thought of earlier.

And early photography showed near-empty streets, suddenly aglow as the new lamps kept us lit, and safer than we once were.

But did the light banish our demons, or set glorious stages for them to emerge in some foggy sea-washed night, to stand tall and worry us afresh?

Or did we just go with our bicycles past all this and think about getting a kebab instead?

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“Did the light banish our demons, or set glorious stages for them to emerge in some foggy sea-washed night?”

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5

Stop. Look. And see. Don’t try to think about it too much. Be. Just be. Don’t think how you might share it on social media afterwards. This is that imperfectly perfect now.

Be in it. It’s not like anything else, it’s just now.

And you are in it.

Imagine if no one had ever stood on this spot, and captured a moment here before. In 130 years or so they will again; but they will hold the tiny camera at arm’s length, and put their chin up and see themselves on a tiny screen.

But back in the day it was mercifully less about the self, because that world out there is bigger, and deserves the bigger frame.

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Based in St Nicholas Street, Alteration Station is one of the places featured in the Old City street tour of the Where’s It To? high street project. Tony is highly regarded for his tailoring skills, and this hidden gem is like stepping back in time in the oldest area of Bristol. Now hold still, Tony. This will only take a few seconds, while I disappear behind this black cloth and my box of tricks. Look directly at the little glass window, Tony. And hold it.

We’re making a thing called a photograph….

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The exposures required to collect an image on a plate were so long that in photographs of busy street intersections, all those moving people and horses and carts, just disappeared. They were so transient in the new world of photography that they just… vanished. And yet we’ve put ourselves at the heart of the technology ever since.

So much of this world is not really about us. Those early images showed us that. But we carried on; we’ve probably only just started to discover what we can do with images. But it would serve the progress of photography to remember that we are hardly here at all, thinner even than the layer of silver crystals and chemicals that nearly captured us in the first place.

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Quite quickly, photography technology has blossomed, to the point where a

tiny piece of kit smaller than a grain of sand can now capture sharp images. But I’m still thinking about those first early humans, born onto the images back when an apple was only a fruit.

Simpler times.

In we go, and one day we will sit down next to Keanu at the motorway service station, swipe our wrist chip over the sensor and directly upload some blurry wonder, plus a vague dream, right into our head, to escape back to the early plates of existence.

Colin is available as a ‘mini-mobile PR/marketing/ social media unit’, to shoot striking street-style photographs at live events: parties, launches, promos and performances, for impactful immediate social media.

Fees start at £100 for a two-hour package. email: mrcolinmoody@gmail.com Twitter: @moodycolin; Instagram @moodycolin319

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

“This is the kind of place where you can order a shrimp cocktail without arching a post-ironic eyebrow”

KLOSTERHAUS

If top-level comfort food, served by staff at the top of their game, in opulent luxe surroundings is your thing – and it’s really hard to see why it wouldn’t be – we have just the place for you…

Words by Deri Robins 36 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

RESTAURANT

S

oon after arriving at Klosterhaus, I was struck by déjà vu. clearly signal “you simply must try the Don Julio Blanco margaritas,” and so This was nothing to do with its much-vaunted reputation for we did, choosing from another extensive menu listing ‘cocktails, wine and evoking the Mittel-European cafés of the 19th century; I may cigars’. Head sommelier Edward seemed delighted by our choice, his nods be old, but I’m not old enough to have taken the Grand Tour. of approval as we reeled off our meal order implying that we had the most No. What it recalled was my first visit to the Ivy Brasserie in exquisite taste of any customer he’d ever had the pleasure to serve. We really Clifton, at whose Kensington-honed brand of elegance I’d fully liked Edward. expected to sneer. We’re not meant to like out-of-town blow-ins Everything on the menu promises comfort food of the highest degree; you after all, especially if they’re part of a chain. don’t come to Klosterhaus to toy with a spring leaf salad. If such MittelI’d brought along a similar bag of prejudices to Klosterhaus – you could European delights as schinkenknacker, schnitzels and sauerkraut aren’t for say I’d arrived fearing the wurst – but it didn’t take long before my froideur you – though they’re such fun to pronounce that you’ll be tempted to order began to thaw. As with the Ivy, whose classy offering is not dissimilar, the them anyway – there are plenty of other options. longer I stayed at Klosterhaus, the more I found to like.

This is the kind of place where you can order a shrimp cocktail without Nobody feels more protective than I do of our independent Bristol chefs, arching a post-ironic eyebrow. Piled high in a sundae glass, a generous with their handful of covers and tiny profit margins. But as rapidly becomes shoal of meaty shrimps were tucked up nice as ninepence in a comforting clear during a visit to grand, opulent Klosterhaus, it has a totally different Marie Rose sauce with a gentle hit of chilli. Our second starter, salmon offering to a small neighbourhood bistro. It also employs dozens of local cured with gin and beetroot to a beautiful purply pink, was prettily teamed staff, which is handy enough in the current climate, with a quenelle of lemon and fennel cream and a and prides itself on inclusivity and diversity. neat pile of cucumber discs, sliced thinly enough to Inside, the décor is a showstopper: if you were read the menu through, although I didn’t try.

DINING DETAILS reaching for a lazy short-cut you’d probably describe Klosterhaus, The Friary Building, Quakers Friars, Into a classic chicken Bourguignon, executive chef it as having the wow factor. The Grade-I building, at Broadmead; 0117 452 3111; klosterhaus.co.uk Bjoern Wassmuth had snuck creamed sauerkraut one time an 18th-century Quaker’s meeting house, among the Gallic onions, mushroom and red wine; a Restaurant hours Monday-Friday midday- 2.45pm, 5.30-9.45pm; Saturday brings all the serene beauty – a lofty double-height gorgeous entente cordiale of flavours. Soft-shell crab main room, grand central staircase, tall pillars – while 11.00am-11.00pm; Sunday 11.00am-6.00pm in a brioche bun from the hot dogs menu came with a We visited Tuesday evening Klosterhaus ladles on the glamour. refreshing cabbage and fennel slaw and spicy chipotle Burnt-orange velvet stools on brass legs surround sauce. Led astray by Edward, we’d thrown caution to Prices Starters £7.50-£12; mains £11.95-£28.50; a bar of sparkling marble, glass and wood, set on the winds by ordering an extra side of Bratkartoffeln desserts £6.50-£8 a black-and-white Deco-esque floor; light fittings – sautéed spuds with wild garlic, bacon and onion; we Drinks Extensive list of cocktails; international and curved decorative arches give a further nod to didn’t need them, and you probably won’t either, but wines; beers served in glasses, mugs or steins this most stylish and sophisticated of eras. Formally we recommend that you order them anyway.

Atmosphere Elegant but relaxed dressed waiters bustle about; the service here – again, Another thing we definitely didn’t need was Service Impeccable not unlike The Ivy – has a polish and attention to pudding, but Edward was having none of that.

Veggie Not the star of the show; a few choices detail that recalls a more refined and elegant era.

Finally capitulating in full to the Mittel-European It was one of those hot June days before the arrival charm offensive, we ordered Black Forest gateaux – of the Great Deluge, the temperature still a balmy 20 degrees at 8pm. We large, bold, boozy slabs of cake, which should have been unmanageable, but were briefly seduced by the prospect of dining outside; ultimately though, thanks to a juicy cherry content and airy, delicate sponge, somehow weren’t. while the terrace has a decent stab at referencing Budapest’s Centrál If I was to single out one thing that I didn’t love about Klosterhaus it Kávéház, the view of Cabot Circus and its carrier-bag-schlepping hordes would be the music track; Mittel-Europe may do a lot of things very well, but doesn’t quite match the charm of the old Belváros-Lipótváros quarter. pop isn’t one of them. I’m not sure what I expected – Strauss? Bartók? – but Anyway, it’s nicer indoors. We settled into a comfy booth, separated there’s enough pleasant low-level noise going on for it not to be needed at all. by a glass panel from the next table, where four tiny, exquisite girls were Opened just after lockdown, Klosterhaus immediately bagged instagramming every angle of every dish while apparently eating very little. itself a Michelin Plate. It’s not the cheapest joint in town, but if you’re In stark contrast, after 12 months of lockdown deprivation, Ms A and I were looking for somewhere special to meet your muckers after a long break, on a mission to eat and drink everything that caught our eye. Most of it did. in an extravagantly glamorous room where reliably good, generously The mains and starters occupy one side of an expansive A3 piece of proportioned food is served by staff at the top of their game, treat yourself to card; on the back is a painting of a mysterious Edwardian beauty. Her eyes Klosterhaus. It’s been a rough 18 months; you’re worth it. n

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

COF COCK 40 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

+ FEE FOOD & DRINK

TAILS Exploring Bristol’s bar culture, from dawn until dusk

Words by George Maguire Photos by Ed Howell

A

lthough there’s nothing new about all-day cafébars on what we still quaintly refer to as ‘the Continent’, Britain has been slower to catch up. Today, though, a growing number of venues have grasped the advantage of offering great morning coffee along with classy cocktails, and indeed everything that comes in between.

Caffeine is all about bright ideas, focus and innovation; alcohol, the relaxation of the mind and body – the easing of the things that were brought into sharp focus by yes, you guessed it; that morning espresso.

There is a flow to it, an understanding almost; a cultural code. These drinks fuel us with creativity, revelry and spontaneity; seemingly pulling in opposite directions, though this is, of course, not the case. Just take the espresso martini, which, if the legends are true, was conjured up in the mid 1980s by a London bartender eager to fulfil the wishes of a model looking to ‘wake up’. It seems that opposites do indeed attract.

It may not be the ’80s any more, but the worlds of coffee and cocktails have carried on evolving.

It’s inevitable that Bristol should be at the vanguard, given the thriving food and drink scene, the creative and social culture and general proliferation of people doing interesting things. To take the pulse, we set off on a tour of sorts to research the interplay of these liquid essentials of modern life, and to find some delicious bevvies in the process. Amid the heady atmosphere of an England Euro football game, Ed and I spoke with coffee aficionados, latte masters, concoction infusers, owners, creatives, bakers, dreamers and more.

– George @georgethomasmaguire; Ed @edhowell

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Coffee Under Pressure (bar’s own photo)

BANK

Where’s it to? 107 Wells Road; bankbristol.com The lowdown Civilised, refined and attuned sum up the vibe at this newly opened all-day coffee house/cocktail bar founded by Dan O’Regan, an award-winning barista aiming his sights at all-things modern eating and drinking. Housed in a former bank Totterdown, the Scandi-simple room is set off a treat by 11 pieces of work by Bristolbased abstract artist Rosa Roig Fiol.

Why visit? Bank has fine-tuned some wonderful things: epic coffees,

raspberry vodka infusions, passionfruit aroma bubbles, and Canton silver needle tea. We’re keen to see what the kitchen (which should be open by the time this magazine comes out) brings to the table.

Shoutout to… Dan’s a fan of Origin Coffee, where he once trained

baristas in the dark arts, and which now provides Bank’s delicious house blends.

DARESHACK

Where’s it to? Wine Street; dareshack.com The lowdown Another venue rejecting the narrow vision of doing just one thing, Dareshack is a meeting place in many guises: a creative studio, an events space and a specialty café with an in-house bakery.

This merging of complementary fields was achieved by Adda Cohn and Gui Petrini, who’ve captured the spirit of East London within a

“Coffee is such a good opportunity to connect. It’s a powerful tool to bring people together”

FOOD & DRINK former Starbucks/Greggs site opposite Castle Park. Opening the roomof-requirement* of a space was no easy task during Covid but the team is buzzing with big plans for Dareshack… (* read your Harry Potter) Why visit? Dareshack plays with the narrative of what a coffee shop can be. To quote co-founder Gui, “coffee is such a good opportunity to connect. It’s a powerful tool to bring people together”.

Shoutout to… Ozone Roastery, with whom the duo worked closely in London, and who doubtless helped to cement their love of speciality coffee. “It’s about respecting the whole journey,” they say.

PLAYGROUND

Where’s it to? 45 St Nicholas Street; playgroundbristol.co.uk The lowdown Continuing the theme of coffee-as-recreation, Playground masterfully combines the rarely interwoven worlds of serious coffee, rum-based cocktails and all manner of board games in a tiki setting. Since opening in 2014, the place has evolved into a seriously potent bar. From the turfed floor to the swing chairs, it’s packed to the brim with a relaxed charm that infects all – and it’s a diverse bunch – that visit.

Why visit? To try the Rumstresso Martini, which really is incredible.

Also, because co-owner Fabian has designed for himself ‘the place that I would like to drink’. Lastly, because something wonderful happens when you shake pineapple juice… above: Coffee as theatre: Dark Matter is Dareshack’s iced latte made with their own vanilla syrup and activated charcoal; below: Can’t decide between coffee or cocktails? Choose She’s My Cherry Pie, Bank’s take on an espresso martini

Shoutout to… Directly opposite Playground is Old India. Fabian is also a big fan of Small Street and Full Court Press.

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

Coffee and backgammon? Don’t mind if we do, Playground Café...

COFFEE UNDER PRESSURE

Where’s it to? 76 Park Street; coffeeunderpressure.co.uk The lowdown Opened a year ago on Park Street, Coffee Under Pressure has been warmly embraced by the Bristol bean scene. The café goes out of its way to build strong relationships with locals, while living their motto, “Brewing with love, always!”

Why visit? We asked co-founder Nasos. “For us it’s about the whole

customer experience in a coffee shop,” he says. “The vibe, the mood the service and of course the coffee itself. We believe that great coffee is an affordable luxury, but also an everyday need, and this is how we treat it.

It’s not just a coffee to us. Each coffee has its own unique story, from the farm all the way to the cup.” I’m sold.

THE COCONUT TREE

Where’s it to? Byron Place, Clifton Triangle; also at 237 & 239 Cheltenham Road; thecoconut-tree.com The lowdown Coconut Tree flies the flag for Sri Lankan food, and in the process creates some dreamy ‘cocotails’.

Why visit? To try the wonderful South Asian bittersweet Sri-Presso Martini, which involves the lively ingredients of Ketel One vodka, coffee, kalua, and cardamom. Wham. Also, it’s the only place we know where you can drink cocktails, sorry, cocotails, from a green china elephant (order The Drunken Sri Lankan).

Shoutout to… “Definitely Pizzarova, Pinkmans, Molto Bueno, Boston Tea Party, Woky Ko and many more. All of them have something unique to offer.”

Shoutout to… Ceylon Arrack, a traditional Sri Lankan spirit distilled from the sap of coconuts that forms the basis of many of the signature cocotails, from which TCT donate a percentage of sales to The Elephant Transit Home run by The Department of Wildlife and Conservation in Sri Lanka.

BOCABAR

SOUTHSIDE BAR & KITCHEN

Where’s it to? Bocabar Paintworks: Paintworks, Bath Road;

Bocabar Finzels: Finzels Reach; bristol.bocabar.co.uk

The lowdown Bocabar has been trading for 15 years, and has built a

reputation in the city for smooth coffee and affable service, signature cocktails (of which there are 10) plus four of the classics, and excellent pizzas – all housed in a charismatic red brick building filled with comfy, vibrant, characterful spaces.

Why visit? For the cocktails and the laidback vibe. Top picks include

their Porcelana, a reworked espresso martini, in which rum and chocolate take centre stage; and the Long Thai Daiquiri, an Eastern Asian twist to the Cuban classic.

Shoutout to… Bocabar are proud to stock some truly stellar locals: 6 O’Clock Gin, Arbor Ales and Bristol Distilling Co.

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

Where’s it to? 172 Wells Road; southsidebristol.co.uk The lowdown A Totterdown favourite, next to the landmark copperspire church in Wells Road. A relaxed vibe, top cocktails, excellent

“It’s about the whole customer experience. We believe that great coffee is an affordable luxury and an everyday need”

FOOD & DRINK grub and really special views across the city.

The industrial/ skate-park-style interiors include a huge concrete slab of a bar, built by owner Will, and cosy seating. Dave Hazell of Casa Verde is currently running a pop-up from Southside’s kitchen serving some excellent plant-based tapas food.

Why visit? Because

THE COFFEE MERCHANTS...

Based at Avonmouth, Bristol Twenty woke up to smell the coffee early doors – in total, they’ve pooled 60 years experience in the blending and beans trade. The shop offers a large range of commercial coffees, as well as a unique blend of small-batch roasted espressos and unusual single estate coffees. They stock an extensive range of teas, too.

Coffee beans and tea leaves are sourced from round the world – many are Rainforest Alliance-certified if not triple certified with Fairtrade and The Soil Association accreditation.

A large range of barista equipment also available. bristol-twenty.co.uk/

it’s one of a kind, and the punters agree. Try to catch a sunset on the outside deck with a perfect margarita (thanks Liv!), cocktail special Lady Marmalade or Wiper & True’s Kaleidoscope.

Shoutout to… The Sundial Kitchen

Café and Harts Bakery next to Temple Meads.

BAR RIPIENA

Where’s it to? 29 Stephen Street; pastaripiena.co.uk/bar-ripiena The lowdown The ultimate wine bar from our favourite Bristol-Italian family, inspired by places they know and love in Lake Como.

Why visit? They have Italian blood, they got this. Go for the incredibly well curated wines, Italian beers, classic Negronis or Aperol Spritzes. Mop them up with artisan charcuterie, cheese and other light bites, prepared in the kitchen of Bianchis; maybe pop an espresso before you leave.

Shoutout to… “Wogan Coffee; Apertitivo & Co for spirits; Hugo’s for fruit and veg; Popti & Beast butchers, fishmongers and café; RS Wines; Nanona for Italian foods, and Mevalco for Spanish produce,” says Magda.

FARAHWAY

Where’s it to? 223 North Street, Bedminster;

farahway.co.uk

The lowdown: Coffee, cakes, cocktails and creativity. Farahway is a

cafe/bar with an artistic twist; the venue actively encourages you to be creative, and be inspired by the cafe’s décor. But if you’ve forgotten your easel, your macramé or your sketchpad, the Farahway people have craft kits in store. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, with music both inside and outside,

Why visit? Artisan classic cocktails with a twist, complete with real INSET FROM TOP: The Coconut Tree

(obv); Bar Ripiena (also obv) and Farahway (less obv) BELOW Playground Café

flowers and delicious locally roasted coffee, expertly made. “The most interesting cocktail we have is a spicy mango margarita – it’s sweet, salty and packs a punch – but the most popular is the passionfruit mojito”.

Shoutout to...Wogan Coffee and Cakesmiths. ■

www.farahway.co.uk

A SPACE FOR COFFEE, COCKTAILS AND CRAFTING A cafe/bar with a creative twist, located in the heart of Bedminster

Perfecto Coffee Machines

Perfecto Coffee provides the best coffee machine and grinder combination to give you the benefit of freshly ground coffee in every cup of coffee.

View our products online!

www.perfectocoffee.co.uk

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WATCH THIS SPACE

Just when you think you have a handle on the Bristol venue scene, along come this little lot...

E

© R AMONA CARR ARO PHOTOGR APHY

very week brings a press release about a fresh new venue opening in the city. This spring, Breaking Bread introduced us to its new Pergola tent, designed for parties, gigs and comedy. Boxpark announced a massive new food hall destined for Welshback next summer. We’ve had Outer Space all summer, down at Lloyd’s. And now, just this month, four more major additions to the Bristol leisure scene have been announced. Hold our beers, we’re going in . . .

“A live experience in VR and IRL is the future of live entertainment and human connection” 48 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

NEW VENUES PROPYARD

Lost Horizon

© R AMONA CARR ARO PHOTOGR APHY

You’ll find Propyard on Feeder Road in St Philip’s; an area that’s currently having a bit of a renaissance. The building used to be a torpedo-testing facility, and has 28,500 square feet of inside space and 42,000 outside, making it perfect for large-scale performance and other events. We particularly like the fact that you could theoretically arrive from the city centre by boat…

“This site has been many things in the past, even a secret MOD site,” says co-owner Sam Watts. “We’ve still got the old cranes that were used to move torpedoes around, and the archway where the tube used to sit for them to be tested in.”

During lockdown, Sam and his team created Feeder Studios Productions, transforming it into a city-centre cultural space. Sam’s vision includes its use as a studio for film production as well as arts and events; it’s big enough to house international exhibitions as well as large-scale film sets.

What kind of events do you plan to host? It’s going to be a

fantastic multi-purpose space. We’re looking at exhibitions from world-renowned artists, installations, music, circus and theatre.

How about the décor and vibe? For décor, think

abandoned MoD weapons factory meets Bristol’s festival scene, soon to feature an archive of props from TV and film production and work from local artists. The vibe is great; the space itself is a massive selling point. It’s full of character, and despite its size has a great buzz when it’s full of people. We’re very keen to collaborate with artists to paint the walls over the coming months, too.

It’s really a place to bring people together through art, music and food. A place where we can cultivate collaboration and just make amazing things happen.

What’s on the food and drink menus? We’re

working with Refresh West on the bar, and we’ve got some great partners on board: Holy Cow, Loki Poke, Cyprus Kitchen, Hanging and Aging Deli and Paletas. We’ve got a wide range of food on offer, from burgers and fresh Hawaiian bowls to stuffed pittas, Italian salumi and ice-lollies.

Anything else we should know? We’ve got a wicked programme of music arts and performance events coming up. Join us on socials at facebook and instagram, or check out the website to see what’s on and book a table.

39-46 Feeder Road; propyard.co.uk

LOST HORIZON

Lost Horizon HQ has been created at a former warehouse in St Jude’s, just up from Cabot Circus. It’s the first permanent site for the Shangri La team, who launched a virtual festival in July 2020.

“Nothing can replace a live experience, but by using VR we’ve found a way to fully immerse our audiences,” say CEO Robin Collings and creative director Kaye Dunnings.

“Now the time has come to go fully hybrid – a live experience in VR and IRL is the future of live entertainment and human connection.”

Lost Horizon HQ plans to host everything from live music to theatre and comedy, art workshops and exhibitions. The capacity is currently 120 inside and 100 outside, but following the lifting of restricting this will gradually increase up to 350.

Tell us about the vibe… It’s quite different to the work we’ve created at Shangri-La over the past 13 years. Although many of the same people are involved, this is something groundbreaking; we can do so much more with a semi-permanent building. We want to open up the venue for deeper engagements within our creative community, bringing emerging artists and more established names together to forge new collaborations and experiments, encompassing cutting-edge technology to push ideas forward in new directions.

Propyard. It’s really big... www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 49

NEW VENUES COOPERS HALL AT BRISTOL OLD VIC

...and the décor? The concept was inspired by our name, and bringing

This venue isn’t new; in fact quite the reverse – it dates back to 1766.

But is has been repurposed, as part of BOV’s big refurbishment; now, instead of being just a spillover mezzanine for interval-drinkers, press freeloaders or theatre students learning their lines, the elegant 18th-century room has been reclaimed by theatre designer Ti Green for the purpose originally intended: a space for dining and events. Through ‘Bristol Old Vic Presents’, the catering will be done by a series of top Bristol chefs; first up is Pizzarova, famed for its handmade sourdough pizzas, and Grano Kitchen, much loved for its homemade Italian food. Keep an eye on the website to see who’s entering stage right next.

Bristol Old Vic, King Street; bristololdvic.org.uk

What’s on the bar menu? A wide range of local beers, ales and ciders, as

our virtual venue to life – a blurring of the boundaries between the digital and real worlds in which we co-exist. Lost Horizon is a novel written in the 1930s by James Hilton, about Shangri-La, a fictional utopian monastery in the hills of Tibet. We’ve created a 360° future landscape with a beautiful vibrant glitchy sunset scene to reference this.

well as the largest tequila and mezcal selection in Bristol. We are big on rums as well, stocking a selection of 20 from around the world. Soft drinks are also really important to us, so there’s something for everyone.

You’re an art gallery, too... Yes, but we’re the opposite of a white-wall

gallery. We want people to feel they belong here, and inspire them to be creative themselves. We will always feature protest art heavily, but want to focus on diversity and inclusion, giving the space over to collectives and individuals who don’t have access to the privileged institutions of the art world. We’re here to shake things up!

Anything else? In September we will be launching our digital twin venue to add to our virtual world. People will be able to experience Lost Horizon from anywhere around the globe via a browser or in VR, and will be able to interact with the real-life audience. We also plan to use the space as a lab/ creation space for digital artists and theatre-makers when we’re not open as a venue.

1-3 Elton Street; losthorizonlive.com

THE MIX

How do you celebrate a 10th anniversary? If you’re The Wardrobe Ensemble , you build a pop-up venue and host a summer-long theatre festival. Pop-up venue The Mix, designed by Studio Three Sixty, will become The Theatre on the Downs, with the ambition to celebrate the local theatre scene, create opportunities for South West artists and provide a community-focused hub. (Is anyone else starting to think of The Wardrobe as ‘the new Kneehigh...’?)

“We started talking about this idea at the end of last summer, as we imagined what might come next for theatre,” says Hannah Smith of The Wardrobe Ensemble.

“We knew that the thing we wanted to do most was to make a new show and perform it to live audiences, and we thought that other companies in the South West might want that, too. So, we created this very ambitious project, which has had many different permutations along the way, as we tried to wrangle it into being. We are so excited (and a little bit scared) to finally announce it and make it happen.

“This is the biggest thing The Wardrobe Ensemble has ever tried to pull off, and we still need help. Please do get in touch if you feel able to support us; and if you are a South West artist with something that you think might work at The Theatre on the Downs, let us know – we are still programming the space, and want to fill it with as much exciting work as possible.” n Breaking Bread; theatreonthedowns.co.uk

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RECIPES PHIL HAUGHTON

Introducing our new recipe columnist – it’s only PHIL HAUGHTON of Better Food!

PHIL’S SICILIANINSPIRED ARANCINI “These arancini remind me of my time spent in the markets in coastal Sicily.

They’re a perfect street food; although delicious served fresh and warm, they’re also perfect for a posh picnic or served with salad for a summer starter. There are a couple of ways to make arancini, one using boiled rice. However, this version starts with a risotto, which I think offers more depth of flavour.”

Ingredients For the rice balls 1 onion, chopped finely 250g risotto rice A small pinch of saffron About 80ml dry white wine 1 litre hot vegetable stock (preferably fresh and organic, but using bouillon is fine) 30 to 40g grated parmesan 1 lemon, using both zest and juice Olive oil Oil for frying (I use Clearspring sunflower frying oil) For the filling It’s up to you. You could make a stiff bolognaise out of minced pork, but my favourite is with wild mushrooms: 150g wild or ordinary mushrooms 2 cloves garlic

1 teaspoon tomato purée 150g any good, local, flavoursome cheese Salt and pepper For coating 80g plain flour 1 or 2 free-range eggs whisked up with a fork 150g fine dried breadcrumbs Method 1 Drizzle some olive oil into a large pan over a low heat, add the onions and cook for 15 minutes or until soft but not coloured.

2 Turn the heat up to medium, add the rice and stir for a few minutes until all the rice grains are coated, then add the saffron and stir well.

3 Pour in the wine and let it bubble away for a couple of minutes, stirring regularly.

Start adding the stock, bit by bit, stirring it through the rice and allowing each amount to become absorbed before adding the next bit. Continue until the rice is cooked through – about 15 to 20 minutes. Add the grated Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice, then leave to cool while you make the filling.

4 Chop the mushroom and garlic very finely, and sauté lightly in olive oil with a little salt.

Cook until juices run a little, then add tomato purée, mix well, take off the heat and add the grated cheese.

5 To form the arancini, scoop a portion of the cooled risotto into your hand. Spoon a dessert spoon of the filling mixture into the centre and wrap the risotto around it to seal completely.

Repeat with the remaining risotto and filling.

6 To coat, place the flour, beaten eggs and breadcrumbs into separate shallow bowls. Dip each arancini ball into the flour, then the egg, and finally the crumbs, ensuring the rice is completely coated. Set aside.

7 Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed saucepan that will just cover the arancini, and place over a high heat. To test that the oil is hot enough, drop in a few breadcrumbs – if they sizzle and float, it’s ready. Carefully lower in the arancini with a slotted spoon, and deep-fry for about 8 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Using a spoon with holes, transfer to a double layer of kitchen paper to drain.

For more: betterfood.co.uk Better Food is a group of award-winning stores and cafés in Bristol that specialise in organic, local and ethical food and products. Phil is also a speaker on the subject of organic farming, and author of the book Food For Thought, in which he shares inspiring personal stories, tempting recipes, helpful tips and insightful contributions. For more: betterfood.co.uk

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

CAFÉ SOCIETY STAN CULLIMORE

Big up the West

Men of Kent (and indeed Kentish men) should look away now...

T

his week’s coffee shop of choice, is the Tincan Coffee Company on Gloucester Road, down by the old swimming baths.

It’s a fab spot. Lovely food, drink and staff, along with a ringside seat for watching the world go by. All of which are important attributes, and why I originally visited it for this column many moons ago.

The reason for this return visit, is because this time, we will dive

“Good coffee is a privilege, and the fact that we are surrounded by such high-class coffee shops here in our home town should never be taken for granted”

deeper than into mere details. Oh, yeah. Want to get all meta and meaningful, amigos.

Usually I focus on one café in each of these columns. Extolling its virtues, drinking its coffee, sometimes even singing its praises, when relevant.

However, in a break with that rather fine tradition, today I wish to discuss the whole café-society scene of Bristol coffee shops. If you are wondering what got me thinking so hard about all of this, the answer is simple. It was going on holiday.

A couple of us pootled over to Kent for a bit of an adventure recently. Along the way, I swam, we ate and the dogs disgraced themselves, as is often their wont.

We also visited a few cafés. Which is when we both realised just how spoilt we are back home, by the fine baristas of Brizzle.

The thing that opened our eyes was the humble flat white.

This particular coffee cocktail, a delicate blend of milk, espresso and heat, has been a relative newcomer to my tastebuds, but it has found a place in the heart of many a caffeine connoisseur.

Which is all very good, especially when one is in a city that understands the sanctity of hot beverages. Like Bristol does.

Trouble is, not everywhere gets it. All the cafés we visited in Kent offered flat white on their drinks

menu, which was nice. But here’s the rub. When we ordered them, three quarters turned out to be a bland, sordid milky pap. More of a sludge white. Undrinkable by civilised sorts. A beverage that made you wonder if the person who made it held a grudge against coffee drinkers. Wanting to bludgeon their tastebuds back to the dark ages.

Which brings me neatly back to Bristol and the Tincan Company.

You see, when we popped in, I noticed a couple of brand new names on the drinks chart. So I ordered one of them: the short black. When it arrived, it turned out to be a sort of shrunken Americano. And it was fab. Loved it. Brand new name, but same high standards. As always.

The lesson I learned that day is simple, dear reader. Good coffee is a privilege, not a right. The fact that we are surrounded by such awesome and high class coffee shops here in our home town should never be taken for granted.

For that way lies madness and sludgy cups of malice!

Baristas of Bristol, we salute you… n

Former Housemartins guitarist Stan is now a journalist and travel writer stancullimore.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 55

DOG, BY STEWY, £150 The next best thing to having one of these good boys slumped at your feet. Limited-edition screen print, signed and numbered by Stewy From Upfest Gallery 198 North Street upfest.co.uk

DOGS v CATS

WOODEN SAUSAGE DOG, £20 Pull-along pooches just like this have been handmade by craftspeople at the same Czech Republic toy factory since the 1940s From Midgley Green 26 Alexandra Road, Clevedon midgleygreen.com

What’s new pussycat?

Who’s a good boy then?

It’s National Cat Day on 8 August, followed by National Dog Day on the 26th . . .

ALESSI DOG BOWL, £65 Designed by Miriam Mirri, the Lulà bowl features a sky-gazing Snoopyesque hound on the lid of a solid plastic dish From Bristol Guild; bristolguildgallery.co.uk BLOOMINGVILLE BASKET, £199 Cane dog basket with removable, washable cushion cover. Maybe wait until they’ve passed the chewing stage, hey?

From Fox + Feather, 41 Gloucester Road foxandfeather.co.uk

SPRINGER SPANIEL MUG, £12.95 Take it from one who knows: this mug is far lower-maintenance than an actual Springer.

(Love you really, Bernie.)

From Pod Company, 24 The Mall thepodcompany.co.uk

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

BOTTLE OPENER, £17.95 Pop open a bottle, and turn the cap into a frisbee...

From Graham & Green, 92 Walcot Street grahamandgreen.co.uk

FOUR CERAMIC COASTERS , £22 From Hannah Turner’s Barklife series, from which 5% of all profits go towards a Sri Lankan street-dog charity From hannahturner.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE BASQUI(C)AT CARD, £2.95 From a puntastic series of cards by Niaski, celebrating the life and times of artistic felines. This one should strike a chord with street-art aficionados From Ustudio 115 Gloucester Road ustudio.design

FOUR CERAMIC CAT COASTERS , £22 The kitty-cat alternative to the dog coasters shown opposite From hannahturner.co.uk JONATHAN ADLER MUG, £32 From New York designer Adler’s Utopia range, designed in his SoHo pottery studio.

And yes, there’s a dog version, too From Harvey Nichols 27 Philadelphia Street harveynichols.com

ENAMEL PIN BROOCHES, £6.95 Made by Bristolian duo Peskimo. who combine curious details and streamlined design with a generous pinch of retro From Soma Gallery somagallery.co.uk

DONNA WILSON CAT TOY/ CUSHION, £41 Mono Cat, we’re reliably informed, loves mint humbugs and zebra crossings. OK Mono!

From Grace & Mabel 32 The Mall graceandmabel.co.uk

T-LAB CAT, 12.50 Hand-carved from a soft light wood, and handpainted. Little white dog available in this range, too From Maze 26-28 The Mall mazeclothing.co.uk

ALLEY CATZ

BY LUCAS ANTICS, £85 A trio of dodgy-looking felines cruise the streets of Bristol in this limitededition giclée print, from our Stokes Croft favourite From Upfest Gallery 198 North Street upfest.co.uk

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

WANTED We buy for cash

SCRAP GOLD & PLATINUM Simply bring your old jewellery to our showroom in Bristol or send it in to us by special delivery.

(Please give us a call for more details) On your behalf, we can also sell re-saleable, unwanted jewellery items in our windows on a sale or return basis.

Photo ID required in all circumstances.

KEMPS OF BROADMEAD 33 Union St, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 2DJ T: 0117 926 4888 | www.kempsltd.co.uk Email: kempsbroadmead@gmail.com

Weekend Maxmara dress, £285, Grace & Mabel

Datsha Stripe Knit, £165, Maze

WINDOW SHOPPING MILLY VAUGHAN Emmi skirt, £59, Fox + Feather

Weekend Maxmara Kriss Cotton Blouse, £92.50 (£185 in sale), Grace and Mabel

Standard stripe tee, £20, Fox + Feather

Munthe cardigan, £139, Grace & Mabel

Paul Smith oversized shirt, £210 (£147 in sale), Grace & Mabel

Culottes, £80, Movement Boutique

Diagonal stripe bag, £25, Fox + Feather

Bonne Maison socks, £18, Maze Maison Scotch belt, £45, Maze

Talk the line

Stripes: the easiest way to make a statement without looking like you’ve been trying

O

ooh, I do love a stripe, be it horizontal or vertical, narrow or wide, monotone or multicoloured, stripes are a timeless and understated pattern.

Whereas polka dots can be busy, and floral prints overtly feminine, stripes are more androgynous.

A simple clean stripe can make a statement, without looking like

you’ve tried too hard. And wearing them can feel comforting; the repetitive lines of fabric holding you in place, even if things around you are feeling a little wobbly.

Think of the medicinal effect of watching clean waves rolling in, the lines of a book, or a set of train tracks. Maybe a striped uniform should be mandatory for the entire nation after the past 18 months, just to get us back to

“To avoid looking like you’ve had a collision with a Breton souvenir shop or an overeager Jean Paul Gaultier sailor, wear one key piece or mix with neutrals”

feeling like we are back on those tracks again. Or is that a bit too Prison Break?

Of course, as with all things fashion, how you choose to execute your stripes lends to a different feel. I once had a lovely client who wore conservative suits but always accessorised with stripy socks. It was his jam. Every time I saw him I would steal a look to see which ones he was wearing, the red/pink ones being my favourite.

Socks aside, the Francophile or maritime tops are the quintessential staple with which you can’t go wrong, but there are other fabulous less traditional options to have fun with. A single line of colour can suggest a utilitarian feel, pinstripes speak business time, and a multicoloured block stripe can lend to a more contemporary feel.

But it’s not all plain sailing when piecing together an outfit so here are my foolproof tips for reading between the lines.

How to earn your stripes • To avoid looking like you’ve had a collision with a Breton souvenir shop or an overeager Jean Paul Gaultier sailor, either wear one key piece, or mix stripy tops with neutral bottoms (or vice versa); never both, unless a suit or dress.

• Don’t limit yourself to the classic cotton tee; try your favourite stripe on alternative fabrics.

Think silk shirts, merino jumpers, canvas shoes or tote bags.

• Warning: Approach the trouser stripe with caution! Always go for vertical lines to elongate, unless you have the lesserknown condition of endless-legsyndrome. Skirts are lots more forgiving, horizontally speaking.

Today you have earned your stripes for getting through another year of ambivalent news, so wear a stripe of honour – even if it’s just a pair of socks… or pants. ■ @millyvaughan on instagram camillapettman@mac.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 59

HEALTH & BEAUTY

ELLIE CRAWLEY

WE’RE THE SOUTH WEST’S VERY FIRST ECO-POWERED FITNESS STUDIO, and the first site in the UK to have the G516 eco-powered indoor cycling bikes from Sports Art, which harvest 74% of the energy generated during the workout and send it back to the local grid. We’re making the planet a stronger place, one spin class at a time!

Physical trainer Ellie opened ecopowered studio Feel Fit in Clifton this year, along with a complementary shop selling sustainable clothing

AFTER 19 JULY I’M MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO… Being able to see my whole family together – there’s a lot of us, and we haven’t all been together for over 18 months now.

FEEL FIT ISN’T YOUR USUAL FITNESS STUDIO, it’s a community.

It’s a fun and safe place to train; we dance, we sing, we laugh and we lift, but most of all we help you feel more confident, stronger and ready to take on anything life throws at you.

I BELIEVE THAT FITNESS SHOULD BE ACCESSIBLE TO ALL, which is why I set up Feel New, offering group fitness classes to charities in and around Bristol.

We are working with three different ones at present, and looking to work with more in the area. We also have a donation/recycling point within the store, where you can bring old or unwanted activewear for us to give to the charities. We do all this ourselves for free, but we need your help.

I GOT INTO FITNESS AT THE AGE OF 21, at a time when women were

meant to be doing aerobics, and on the treadmill, but I was in the weights area.

I started lifting weights and training because I was fed up with trying all the fad diets, and realised that learning to appreciate my body was far better than some crash 6-12 week transformation plan. Training, exercise and movement should be enjoyable; there is no single plan or style that fits all – it’s a feeling, not a look, size or shape.

IF YOU DID JUST ONE THING

to get fitter, it should be to walk a mile every day! It’s great for fitness and mindset.

THE AIM OF THE STUDIO is helping people to love their bodies, to help others find sustainable health and fitness – and if we can do that with our health then we can do it with our wardrobes, too. In January 2020 we launched our sustainable clothing brand, made from consumer waste and spent fishing nets.

These are timeless classic items you won’t throw away; 100% squat-proof, comfy and won’t let you down.

MY TOP TIP FOR STARTING A FITTER LIFESTYLE IS... Just start; there’s never a ‘right’ time, so do it for yourself, now. Slow, small changes build up to big gains and wins. At Feel Fit we focus on what you have gained, not lost; it’s not about restrictions, it’s what fitness can add to your life.

MY OWN EXERCISE REGIME IS… ... crazy! I teach five spin sessions a week and lead our run club, so that’s my cardio sorted, but I LOVE lifting heavy, so I make sure I get at least three to four 30-minute sessions in. This is my headspace and helps me deal with life!

MY GO-TO LUNCH IS… cheese.

I love cheese! I prep most my meals as I am so busy, so normally a jam-packed salad or stir-fry, possibly a jacket if I am running in the evening.

DID YOU KNOW, that only 15% of clothing is recycled? Most of it ends up in landfill – so help us to save the planet and empower more people to move by sending us your unwanted gym kit, either for us to use with our charities or to recyle.

THE SINGLE THING I’M PROUDEST OF IS... seeing people achieve things they never thought they could.

We work with a wide range of abilities and ages, and giving someone the confidence to even just be able to do a squat or walk better melts my heart every time.

For more myfeelfit.com

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

It’s the city’s business

BRISTOLWORKS clockwise from top left: Ann Hiatt, former chief of staff at Google, now a consultant and strategist;

Dale Vince, green entrepreneur, owner of Ecotricity; a still from the live EntreConf event; Chris Anderson, owner and curator of the TED conferences

WISE WORDS FROM ENTRECONF

Start me up

Insights, stimulation, provocations: EntreConf, the new conference for entrepreneurs and business thinkers, was held last month to high acclaim

T

he aim of the online conference was to inspire new business, start-ups, scale-ups and entrepreneurs with powerful business thinking. This area has always been strong for entrepreneurs, a trend which has accelerated during the pandemic (which was also reflected in the record number of new businesses entering this year’s Bristol Life Awards).

The conference featured a trio of remarkable keynote speakers. Ann Hiatt – a former chief of staff at Google, now a consultant and strategist – told us how her career began with the potential setback of the dotcom crash of 2001, when based in Seattle, which then turned into a significant opportunity with Amazon, where she worked closely with Jeff Bezos. Her inspirational talk was about seizing opportunities and always learning.

Chris Anderson, owner and curator of the TED conferences, spoke about his own entrepreneurial career, founding the media company Future, in the UK, selling it, and using the proceeds to start what became Future US. He is that rarity of a Brit succeeding in the USA and

gave deep insights into the entrepreneurial psyche. He also spoke about the many leading entrepreneurs he has known, such as Elon Musk, and their own motivations and inspirations.

The most idiosyncratic approach was taken by Dale Vince, the green entrepreneur, owner of Ecotricity and vegan-friendly Forest Green Rovers, and executive producer of the documentary Seaspiracy. Dale is very much the definition of having success on your own terms – a former traveller and eco-warrior, accredited by the UN; self-described ‘enemy of the state’, moving from outsider to a Climate Champion for the UN, and now one the leading green entrepreneurs and thinkers.

That sense of defining your own success was a key theme of the conference. For some entrepreneurs, success is relatively conventional: start with an idea, then test, build, scale and then exit, with some fabulous wealth.

And if that’s the choice, then fine.

For others, it was about being a social entrepreneur, of ecology, of doing good. Or maybe employing more

“A key part of the entrepreneurial mindset is to persuade people to come along on the journey.

There has to be fun, excitement, intrigue, communication of the dream, and just how amazing the world would be, should this idea be brought to life.” Chris Anderson, TED conferences “The fact that we need to tackle the climate crisis has been brought about in the mainstream recently, and the pandemic has alerted us to a sense that we need to focus on it in much the same way; there won’t be any social distancing measures for climate change!”

Dale Vince, green entrepreneur “There are 7bn people in the world. If there’s a one in a million chance something might happen, that’s 7k people with a chance, so why not you?” Ann Hiatt, former Google chief of staff “As entrepreneurs, you need to sell the positive what ifs... and always try to negate the negative ones. There are so many technologies and new ideas that are making big concepts possible; it’s vital to think big and constantly challenge.”

Richard Godfrey, Rocketmakers “Dream. . .” Chris Anderson.

All videos from the day are on the EntreConf YouTube channel, with all the presentations on the website. people, of giving opportunities. For others still, it was about health and wellbeing, another area which has risen sharply in importance due to the pandemic. And of course, for many, the motivation includes testing yourself and your ideas, of taking risks, the shock of the new. But whichever, being an entrepreneur is about choice.

EntreConf also featured the top 50 coolest, brightest entrepreneurial companies in the Bristol and Bath area, as chosen by a panel of experts: the EntreLeague. This eclectic mix of companies from all sectors indicates the sheer vitality and inventiveness of entrepreneurs here.

Full details on page 64 and on the EntreConf site.

Additionally, there were practical insights on funding, future technology, starting up, valuation terms sheets, IP protection, and stimulation to new thinking, as well as the unveiling of exclusive research on entrepreneurs.

There’ll be an EntreConf dinner for entrepreneurs in the autumn, ahead of EntreConf returning next summer.

The future is indeed unwritten…

For more information entreconf.com; @entre_conf

mba.bath.ac.uk

Lettings

Blog

Our team of experienced letting agents will work hard to meet your letting needs whatever they are.

Our blog keeps you up to date on what we’re working on and the services we provide to our customers.

Valuation

Sales

Free instant online valuation. Visit our website to find out how much your property is worth today.

We provide a wide range of attractive properties for sale, and a dedicated team giving tailored support.

Ashburys Estate Agents

It couldn’t be easier!

An independent estate agency located in Portishead High Street and pride ourselves on a deep understanding of the local market. As respected, local experts, here at Ashburys we prefer to take a personal approach to match our independent status.

Ashburys Estate Agents 39A High Street, Portishead, BS20 6AA

Download the “Our Properties” APP

Enter our Agent Code UBAVAZ into the app, then scan the QR code for the list of our properties.

Email: info@ashburys.co.uk Tel: 01275 818200 www.ashburys.co.uk

Open Hours Mon - Fri: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Sat/Sun: Closed

BRISTOLWORKS suitable product for you and will give you a recommendation as to why they have chosen the product. This should give you all the information you need to decide whether to proceed. If you proceed, an application is made, and if approved, funds are normally sent in about five to eight weeks.

Q&A

Please release me…

So – you’re a baby boomer, you made all the right property moves in the '80s, and you’re now mortgage-free. Should you be putting the value of your home to use, releasing equity to buy a second home, help grown-up children to get a foot on the ladder, or simply to fulfil a bucket-list dream?

Richard Jeffcock of Equity Release Partnership has sound advice on the matter

T

here are a lot of equity release products, and equity release lenders insist you receive financial advice,” says Richard.

“It's vital that you find a trusted adviser. Without one, you risk paying thousands of pounds in extra interests over the term of the plan.”

So – what’s the first step?

The first step is to contact an adviser to find out if equity release is possible.

A good adviser will not charge for a general enquiry. Some have access to a limited number of lenders, whereas some are fully independent. Most people prefer independent advisers.

What are the main advantages and disadvantages of equity release?

The advantage is you can access a tax-free cash lump sum of up to approximately 60% of the value of your property. The main disadvantage is that you reduce the amount of equity left in your property.

What kind of interest rates are incurred on the sum taken?

Interest rates are between about 2.5% and 5% depending on your age and amount borrowed. Here's a current example: A couple both aged 68 owning a property worth £400,000 and releasing £100,000. The £100,000 is on a fixed rate of interest for lifetime of the product of 2.85% with an optional repayment facility.

What are the main pitfalls to avoid?

Don't rush into it and make sure you get the right advice.

Could other options be better?

If you own another property, you could sell that and raise funds, although there may be capital gains tax to be paid. You could also consider using savings or selling possessions.

How many lenders are in the equity release market?

There are eleven lenders in the equity release market and they offer over 250 products.

If we decide to go ahead, what’s the next stage?

Your adviser will find the most

If we use the money to gift to children, will there be a tax bill?

Taxation laws are complicated, but a money gift to a relative can be exempt of tax depending on certain criteria.

It's too complicated to go into here, but your adviser can give you more detail about this.

Other than the amount released, are there any hidden costs?

Due to excellent government regulations, there aren’t any hidden costs. All costs are detailed in the illustrations and in the adviser’s recommendation.

How much is the process likely to cost in fees?

The costs are the adviser fee (between £995 and £1750 depending on the adviser). There are also solicitor’s fees of approximately £750 plus VAT. What are the pros and cons of using equity-released funds to buy a second home?

Buying a second home can incur stamp duty and other second property related charges. These fees are the same with or without equity release.

Is it still possible to access further funds later on if required?

Most products come with a ‘reserve’ facility. This feature means an amount is held in reserve which you can access in the future.

Anything else?

With interest rates pretty much at an all time low, now is as good time to consider equity release but trusted advice is a must.

For more: equityreleasepartnership.org

BRISTOLWORKS 3

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BRISTOL LIFE AWARDS The Bristol Life Awards will be held on 16 September 2021 at Ashton Gate. You can book tickets and tables with confidence: if the Government’s venue restrictions due to the pandemic mean that we cannot accommodate your booking this year, you will have the option of either a full refund; or you can defer your tickets or tables until next year’s event.

Judgement call

E

Meet this year’s Bristol Life Awards decision-makers very year, the Bristol Life Awards selects a fresh panel of judges drawn from a range of sectors in the city. They may have very different specialisms, but they have two important things in common: a passionate love of the city, and a deep knowledge of the local community.

Together they take on the unenviable task of deciding on the best of the best from an exceptional roster of finalists. In the run-up to judging day, the team will read through all the nominations put forward by the businesses on this year’s shortlist, before meeting to agree on the final winners.

Please meet, then:

1

AINE MORRIS: the ED of Bristol Food union – a new social enterprise born out of the Covid crisis to help keep Bristol fed.

2

AMY COPPOCK: ED of Coutts. Amy has been in the industry for over 20 years; she’s currently responsible for the strategy and team in the South West and Wales.

3

ANDREW SPERRING: MD of JAS Building Services. Since joining the family firm in 2016, Andrew has become the company’s strategist and leader.

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

4

CHRISTELLE PELLECUER: multi-disciplinary artist and entrepreneur Christelle is the founder and creative director of Razana Afrika; she’s also a trustee at both Arnolfini and the Tobacco Factory Theatres.

5

DAVE LEES: CEO, Bristol Airport. Dave is driving forward the future of Bristol Airport as a national leader in sustainable aviation.

6

GLYN BLAIZE: Glyn founded tech start up Northstar.ai, and is now group COO for one of Bristol’s most exciting scale ups, Amdaris.

7

MARK KELLY: MD of Ashton Gate and Bristol Sport. Mark oversees the operation and management of the stadium and two élite training facilities. He is also responsible for commercial operations for Bristol Sport.

© @JONCRAIG_PHOTOS

2

BRISTOL PROPERTY AWARDS Bristol’s dynamic property sector will also come together at Ashton Gate on 12 November 2021 for the prestigious Bristol Property Awards.

SPONSORS are closely associated to the event from here onwards with an unrivalled business marketing campaign: in print, online, social media, email and at shoulder events.

For remaining options, please contact harriette.dixon@ mediaclash.co.uk or neil.snow@ mediaclash.co.uk TICKETS Please join the waiting list and we will be in contact when tickets are available.

NOMINATIONS are flowing in – it’s easy and free to enter via the website. Please also check out our Top Tips, to make your nomination stand out.

For more: bristolpropertyawards.co.uk

8

NATASHA VOLKK: Natasha is a business development manager at law firm TLT, supporting the clean energy and real estate sectors.

9

SEB LOYN: the planning & development director of YTL is leading the team responsible for one of the most exciting regeneration projects in the country: transforming the historic former Filton Airfield into a thriving new neighbourhood for Bristol.

For more: bristollifeawards.co.uk

© EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY BRISTOL

PROPERTY BUILDING BRISTOL

MOVE ON UP

Meet Zump: a new property app launched in Bristol that unlocks ‘off-market’ homes for sale Zump: it may sound like a cut-throat propertybased board game based on gazumping – which, come to think of it, could be a world of fun. In fact it’s quite the opposite, being the name of a new app designed to make the whole house-hunting process easier for both buyers and sellers.

Zump sets out to unlock the ʻoff-market’ for buyers, allowing people to search for homes that match their specifications, even if they're not currently listed for sale. At the same time, it offers owners an easy, hassle-free way to see who might be interested in their homes.

‘Off-market’ refers to any property not currently listed on a portal or with an estate agent. Across BS postcodes, it’s estimated that there are currently over 114,000 people who are thinking about moving, but only around 3,250 houses listed on Rightmove. The number of properties a buyer can interact with on Zump, on the other hand, is 455,000.

Zump has been co-founded by Danny

Danny Gray

Gray, a former professional rugby player for Bristol Bears (then Bristol Shoguns), who’s built up considerable experience in the property industry over the last 15 years.

“In Bristol, there are around 35 potential buyers to every one available property,” says Danny. “Not only is there a lack of choice, but when you do find something of interest, the competition is ferocious.”

Zump, he says, is perfect for those who know the area they’d like to live in, but can find nothing currently for sale that ticks their boxes.

“When buyers can’t find what they’re looking for, they don’t list their own property,” says Danny. “This further reduces the ability for people to find what they want. It’s a vicious cycle that we’re here to break. We believe the ideal home is out there for everybody, and we want to help them find it.”

The app’s ‘Smart Search’ feature allows buyers to specify filters such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, value, and property type. Buyers can then go anywhere on the map, press the ‘search here’ button, and the map will drop pins on every off-market property that fits the buyer’s requirements in that location.

For homeowners, it’s an easy, hassle free opportunity to safely gauge interest in their property, which they can do simply by sharing it on the app with just a few clicks. No contracts, fees or obligations.

Giving buyers and owners the tools to create their own connections means there’s a significant time- and cost-saving, which is passed on to homeowners through a low fixed sales fee of £599 including VAT. “Think of us like Airbnb, but with your own property adviser to help and support you every step of the way,” says Danny.

“Ultimately, we want to be a global marketplace that helps millions of people to realise their home-owning dreams. Bristol is an ideal launch pad for us; it’s a sizeable city that has a real vibrancy and an open-mindedness that we think will resonate with an innovative and disruptive new brand like ours.”

For more: zump.me

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

PROPERTY JACK HEAD

I Remortgage to remodel?...

No thank you, we’re off!

“Wondering how your neighbours suddenly own a brand new VW camper van? Well, they may just have a very good mortgage advisor”

t appears that a new topic of conversation is being heatedly discussed across the dinner table in many Bristol property owners’ households.

Staycation or abroad? Cat or dog? Daddy or Chips? Remodel or retreat?

Bristol’s continued house price growth is almost as certain a bet as England going out of a major tournament on penalties (still too soon?). This is great news for homeowners, but not so much for the city’s youngsters, many of whom are fi nding it so very challenging to get their fi rst foot on the housing ladder.

Those lucky enough to own their own property, especially when they have owned it for a number of years, will almost certainly fi nd themselves in a position where they can release equity from it due to an increase in its value. This is often referred to as a remortgage.

Now, this doesn’t suit everyone.

When taking out a mortgage to buy a property, many see the end goal as being mortgage free – where you have repaid the capital amount lent to you initially, along with the interest. This will often take 30-plus years to repay, and most can’t wait to get there.

During the time you have a mortgage, the terms will be structured with an initial fi xedtime period. Those striving to be mortgage-free will tend to look for the best mortgage rate on the market and renew for a new fi xed term, keeping all the equity in the property. This usually results in lower monthly repayments, as the percentage of equity to money borrowed is lower. They are then another step closer to owning the property outright.

For those feeling more adventurous, remortgaging to release equity gives a great opportunity to generate capital.

A pot of cash in your bank

account – what a treat! But your monthly repayments may increase, and remember that interest rates are at an historically low level at present.

This cold hard cash is often used by people to remodel their current home: “Come on, lets get that new kitchen we’ve always wanted”.

Or, if you’re lucky enough, it can be used for larger remodelling, like a loft conversion or house extension.

And the great news is, spending that money on improving your home will nearly always increase its value, so when you come to sell, you get that money back where it should be: a number in your online bank account.

But there has been a recent surge in popularity by people choosing to use this money to retreat from the rat race, even if only temporarily. This year we have seen an increasing number of people contact us about our property management services, saying they are throwing caution to the wind and are moving abroad for six or 12 months, so please can we let their house out?

Another recent trend is people remortgaging their home to release equity, then buying that second home in the UK countryside that they always dreamed of. This can also be fi nancially sound, where people rent the property out as a holiday let. So now there’s another debate for the dinner table: Devon or Cornwall?

So, like me you may be wondering how most of your neighbours suddenly own a brand new VW camper van.

Well, they may just have a very good mortgage advisor.

Jack Head is the founder of Bristol agencies Boardwalk Property Co. and The Letting Game instagram: @thepropertypatron email: jack@boardwalkpropertyco.com

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

PROPERTY

“A previous owner, Richard Perceval, aided the defeat of the Spanish Armada. As a result, Nailsea Court was known as ‘the house that saved England’”

COURT FAVOURITE So steeped in history that even its doors have names, Perceval Court is enough to tempt the most dyed-in-thewool townie out of the city

By Ursula Cole

W

hile it’s still too early to predict what post-lockdown Britain will look like, one trend is definitely on the increase: more and more people are deciding to move out of the cities and into the country.

It’s easy to see the appeal.

Space-wise, you’re likely to get a lot more bang for your buck, with larger gardens, in the heart of beautiful, restorative, rural loveliness.

Obviously, this isn’t a new phenomenon – even before the pandemic, many town-dwellers found their priorities changing after starting a family; it’s amazing how quickly the Stokes Croft dawn chorus of partygoers loses its charm when you’ve spent half the night trying to talk your own tiny reveller to lie down quietly in its cot.

But lockdown, and the resultant working from home revolution, has massively accelerated the trend; based on recent research by Rightmove, almost a third of buyers in the market for a new home, and one in five first-time buyers, say they now want to live in rural areas.

Nailsea Court, then, is likely to pique a considerable amount of interest. Part of a significant Grade-I manor house set in grounds of around 6.5 acres, within green and pleasant countryside, the five-bedroomed home comes with a heady side-order of history. Wood-panelled, gabled and mullioned to the nines, the house has the highest concentration of original features you’ll ever stumble across; among its Jacobean and mediaeval treasures there’s even a secret staircase.

One of its notable previous owners was Richard Perceval, who deciphered documents that aided in defeating the Spanish Armada; as a consequence, Nailsea Court was called “The house that saved England” by Bishop Kennion. As with all the very best 16th-century homes, it’s said to have been visited by a (presumably grateful) Elizabeth I. Perceval Place is the central wing of the house, which was created when the building was sympathetically divided under the supervision of the National Trust and English Heritage.

Moseying through its venerable rooms, with their floor-toceiling oak panelling, exposed beams, carved inscriptions, stone-flagged floors, intricately carved oak doors, mediaeval

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

stained-glass windows and the kind of vast stone fireplaces that practically demand a pair of wolfhounds to be settled at the hearth, it doesn’t take an especially febrile imagination to picture a ghostly Richard Perceval scribbling away.

This is the kind of home where the rooms have names – there’s the Great Hall, the Solar, the Cole Room and the Crusoe – and yes, the fireplace in the Crusoe, which serves as the main bedroom, does indeed come from the house where Daniel Defoe first met castaway Alexander Selkirk. Even some of the doors have names, for heaven’s sake: the Bristol Door and the Nailsea Door being historically important.

Modern must-haves such as en suite bathrooms and a well-fitted kitchen make Perceval Court far more than a museum, however; indeed, it’s more reminiscent of a particularly grand country hotel.

Large gardens, both communal and private, surround the house; there’s a croquet lawn, an orchard, a stone summer house, a walled courtyard garden accessed from the kitchen, and a further gated garden.

Just how appealing is that poky little two-bed city apartment looking now?

HOUSE NUMBERS Games room, utility, cellar

Where? Chelvey Road, Nailsea Reception rooms

3

Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 4 Other rooms

Outside Private gardens, patio and enclosed courtyard Guide price

£850,000

For more: Savills Clifton, 20 The Mall, Bristol BS8 4DR; 0117 933 5800; savills.com

76 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

VALUATION COMMERCIAL AGENCY LEASE ADVISORY BUILDING CONSULTANCY

"Helpful, efficient, a first class firm made up of the best people.

They promise a lot but they deliver more, I cannot recommend them too highly."

– TG, Local Investor

VALUATION

TO LET

TO LET

Pension Fund Valuation

BUILDING CONSULTANCY Dilapidations

Probate

Commercial Surveys

Matrimonial Insurance Reinstatement Assessments

Taxation Accounting Valuation

Unit A, 28 Baldwin Street, Bristol, BS1 1NG

68 High Street, Portishead, BS20 6EH

TO LET

---------

Schedules of Condition SOLD

LEASE ADVISORY

Project Management Project Monitoring

Rent Reviews Lease Renewals Lease Regears Unit 3 St David’s Court, Clevedon, BS21 6UP

92C Whiteladies Road, Clifton, BS8 2QN

WE HAVE APPLICANTS SEARCHING FOR: High Street Retail Units | Industrial Warehouse Premises | Development Opportunities

CONTACT US FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION MARKETING APPRAISAL Valuation Ed Le Masurier Tel: 07800 635734 Ed@ETPproperty.co.uk

Lease Advisory Alastair Kimpton Tel: 07872 107689 Alastair@ETPproperty.co.uk

Building Consultancy Nick Williams Tel: 07745 133524 Nick@ETPproperty.co.uk

Commercial Agency Nathan Clark Tel: 07983 460230 Nathan@ETPproperty.co.uk

MEET THE PROPERTY AGENT Like every other area of life, Covid has affected all areas of property-buying and selling.

So, what are the new house rules?

SPONSORED CONTENT CHRIS FIRTH

RICHARD KERPNER

HAMPTONS 0117 901 5591; hamptons.co.uk What long-term impact is Covid likely to have on the property sector?

The problem of the pandemic initially was, “how do we show buyers properties when they are isolating or in lockdown?” so we very quickly adapted our business to offer a range of virtual viewing options, video tours, and the like; however now the main impact is on what types of properties are popular and in-demand. There are three key requirements most of the buyers we look after are looking for: more outside space, a place to be able to work from home, and a quieter more peaceful location, as commuting to the office has become less important. This last point was a trend that was already on the rise before Covid, but now one that we see continuing long into the future.

What advice would you give right now to someone searching for a home?

If you need to sell in order to move, then get your house on the market now. In the current market, demand is high and available properties are very low, so buyers are often missing out on properties because they are not proceedable. However, if you are nervous of doing so when you do not know where you are going to move to, choose your estate agent now and ask them to prepare the property brochure.

How long does the average transaction take?

The average time for the transaction to go through has been taking much longer, since Covid; where it once took an average 6-8 weeks, it is now 10 -12 weeks. The best thing you can do to speed up a transaction is choose your solicitor early, complete all the relevant paperwork, and speak to a financial advisor, so that once the transaction begins it will all go through quickly and smoothly.

FINE & COUNTRY CHEPSTOW 01291 629799; fineandcountry.com

Chris Firth

Richard Kerpner

ASHLEY DAY

BRISTOL PROPERTY CENTRE 0117 907 3577 bristolpropertycentre.co.uk What do you anticipate for the Bristol property market for the next 12 months?

Bristol has always been a resilient market and although I think we have challenges ahead nationally in 2022 I don’t think Bristol will see such challenges, due to the demand we are experiencing.

Do you offer virtual viewings?

Although we love to see our customers in person, we do fully embrace the technological world! We can offer viewings and valuations on Zoom, Skype or WhatsApp. What makes you different from others in your profession?

We are a local business with local people. No call centres and no being passed from pillar to post.

Deal with a local property professional from start to finish all for a great fee of 0.65%+VAT including a photographer.

How long does the average transaction take?

With high demand and high volumes of moves, speed isn’t always possible at present. We are finding sales being in excess of 16 weeks.

Why decide to put your house on the market now?

The housing market is the strongest that it’s been for the last 10 years or so with Rightmove reporting that it’s seen the highest level of activity from buyers. So, to be able to maximise your achievable selling price, now is the optimum time to sell.

What long-term impact is Covid likely to have on the property sector?

We feel the market will remain strong due to many people wanting to move away from the cities.

We are fortunate to cover beautiful areas such as Monmouthshire, Forest of Dean and Ross on Wye with idyllic countryside on the doorstep to enjoy the fresh air and outside space. Good ‘work from home’ space will also be a key point in current and future property searches.

What makes your company stand out?

As a company, ‘we value the little things that make a home’ - bringing exceptional marketing and exposure for every one of our clients’ properties, offering extensive international and national marketing at a personal level. We ensure that customer service is always key, combining market knowledge, practical experience and the latest technology to provide a unique market insight.

What advice would you give right now to someone searching for a home?

We would advise anyone looking to move to be in a proceedable position. If you are not already on the market, it is key that you do so as soon as possible, and we would be delighted to help. Please contact our team and let us look after you. Our Facebook ‘coming soon’ posts also give an insight to new properties that will be coming onto the market.

JAKE GREADY

NEXA BRISTOL 0117 363 4411; nexabristol.com

Ashley Day

Jake Gready

What are the key values of your business?

The NEXA business model is entirely customer-centric: we provide dedicated agents to our clients so that they have one point of contact throughout their property journey. This eliminates problems typically faced in estate agency. Our high-performance culture also means we only hire the best candidates in the area.

What makes you different from others in your profession?

I act as your personal agent throughout any property transaction, which creates a seamless service. With nearly 30 years of experience in the industry, I have worked on a variety property types and values, so I can confidently deliver an unrivalled service level.

What do you anticipate for the Bristol property market for the next 12 months?

One thing is for sure, looking at the number of ‘For Sale’ boards going up and turning to ‘Sold’ just as quickly, shows this market is not maintainable for the long-term, but I do expect there will be a second wave of house sellers that will flood the property market in the autumn and winter when furlough ends.

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SPONSORED CONTENT ANDREW HILL

JULIAN COOK

ASHBURYS ESTATE AGENTS 01275 818200; ashburys.co.uk What do you love about working in the property sector?

I love helping people find their forever home. The first house I sold was in 1969; the owner moved out last year and their daughter bought the house from them.

What are the key values of your business?

I don’t push people to buy a house they simply do not want. I want to be able to find my customers their dream home, and if that takes a little while then so be it.

What advice would you give right now to someone searching for a home?

Make sure you have your finances in place prior to searching for a new home. In this very competitive market it also is beneficial to have a buyer lined up for your home before searching for your new home. If you haven’t got a buyer lined up, at least make sure your chosen agent values your home.

How long does the average transaction take?

This purely is down to solicitors. If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be to choose a reputable solicitor and be prepared to push your chosen solicitor hard during the transaction, and if necessary ask your agent for help.

How do you help and support the local community?

I have been a member of the Portishead Lions club for over 50 years. We have just completed installing 30 defibrillators for the Portishead, Pill, Weston-in-Gordano and surrounding areas, raising over £90,000, which has not only funded the defibrillators but will also be enough for maintaining them for the next 10 years.

BURSTON COOK 0117 934 9977; burstoncook.co.uk

Andrew Hill

Julian Cook

NATHAN CLARK ETP 0117 973 1474 ETPproperty.co.uk

How has Covid-19 affected the commercial property market in Bristol?

Office occupiers continue to re-appraise their requirements. Big box retail has suffered, and ultimately these spaces will require repurposing or redevelopment. Start-up businesses are booming so we are seeing good demand for local retail parades, district centres and offices that offer something a little bit special.

What do you anticipate for the Bristol commercial property market for the next 12 months?

There is a shortage of good quality industrial units and we expect values to rise accordingly.

Office rents are likely to fall back slightly as more space hits the market. Retail rents in prime shopping areas will be under further pressure, but conversely we expect an increase in values for neighbourhood retail.

What are the biggest mistakes that can be made in commercial property transactions?

Common occupier mistakes include misunderstanding repairing liabilities, lease break clauses, planning permissions, or the implications of security of tenure. These can often have a greater financial impact than the rent or price.

You’d expect me to say it, but it pays to get the right advice at the outset.

80 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

What part of your work do you particularly enjoy?

Helping businesses with complicated/stressful property matters through to a successful outcome where our true value as experts can be recognised.

What common pitfalls do people make when buying or selling commercial property?

Not taking expert commercial property advice from a qualified professional specialising in this sector.

Tell us something about your company and why people contact you…

We specialise in providing all aspects of commercial property advice. We are Chartered Surveyors. We are multi-award-winning and Bristol’s most active commercial property agent.

What advice would you give someone looking to invest in property in the South West?

Identifying good commercial investments is not straightforward. Keep your requirement criteria as open as possible and be deal-led rather than by sector/location. Always take advice from an expert before buying.

How has Bristol’s commercial property market changed?

In the last five years, some 1.5 million sq ft of redundant central office space has been converted for residential use. This has helped revitalise the city centre with thousands more people living in the area, resulting in a community vibe and supporting local retail outlets and eateries. As a result, more office occupiers wish to retain a presence in BS1.

JAMES WITHALL

3SIXTY REAL ESTATE 0117 247 0120; 3sixtyrealestate.co.uk

Nathan Clark

James Withall

What advice would you give a business looking for commercial property?

Firstly, use a surveyor. Property acquisitions are costly in the short and long term and therefore, understanding the current condition and liabilities are paramount. Good pragmatic advice from the outset pre-acquisition can be fed into your legal team to renegotiate terms and/ or ensure suitable mechanisms are in place on leasehold acquisitions to mitigate future liabilities.

How should I consider dilapidation related matters?

From the outset, the current condition ideally would be recorded within any engrossed lease documentation. A properly prepared and engrossed schedule of condition can be worth its weight in gold at lease expiry. Secondly, rely upon a specialist dilapidations surveyor (not one who merely dabbles!) who will be able to mitigate overall financial exposure as a result of your leasehold exit.

What makes 3SIXTY so different?

Our reputation advising SMEs and Landlords is second to none. We understand dilapidations and have a proven track record of delivering results, mitigating financial exposure including where contested dilapidation disputes have resulted in mediation. While we deal in property matters, we appreciate that commercial property is a people business.

Buying, Selling or Letting?

Let our award winning team help.

A locally owned, independent estate agency, we pride ourselves on our knowledge of the local market and our personal service.

Buying, selling or letting:

0117 9073577 14 Chandos Road, Redland, Bristol, BS6 6PE

info@bristolpropertycentre.co.uk bristolpropertycentre.co.uk

SPONSORED CONTENT

A WINNING FORMULA An opportunity not to be missed: 65% of the new homes in the Science Building at REDLAND COURT are now sold

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or several months, Sheila and Peter Campbell watched the development of Redland Court from a distance. The lofty position of their large family home in the BS7 area provided the perfect vantage point to see just what was unfolding on this historic site.

“We love living in this area, but once our children moved out, we found ourselves in a large house with so many unused rooms. Moving was something we’d talked about, but without making any firm plans.

“We knew very early on that Redland Court was going to be special, and thought we’d go along to an open day in September 2020 just to see what was on offer. We loved it, and reserved our beautiful apartment the next day!

“It was the quickest decision we ever made.

I never thought I’d buy off-plan, but the information provided, and the quality of the finishes that we saw, gave us confidence. We didn’t look anywhere else, and as one of our neighbours said recently, opportunities like this don’t come along very often; she was so right.”

Sheila and her husband were the first people to move into Redland Court, buying a groundfloor two-bedroom apartment in the Science Building.

“Now we are finally in, and everything is just as we expected. The quality is amazing; nothing

INFORMATION • One-bed apartments from £395,000 • Two-bed apartments from £525,000 • Two-, three- and four-bed apartments and houses from £895,000-£1.5m

was too much trouble for Juniper Homes, and even though the site isn’t completely finished, the building team are so polite that it’s really not a problem. Our surrounding terrace is much larger than we’d anticipated, and we love sitting outside, watching the evening sun light up the beautiful stone of the Manor House – it feels like being on holiday in Italy”.

“After so many years in a large Victorian house, we were concerned we’d feel cramped, but absolutely not; this apartment feels so light and spacious. People step into the living room and genuinely say, wow...” n

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THE ONE AND ONLY WOODSTOCK LODGE With two dedicated parking spaces, a private entrance and eco-friendly sedum roof, this detached lateral three-bedroom home is truly contemporary and like nothing else on the development. Living space includes a spacious open-plan kitchen/ living room, and three bedrooms including a beautiful master bedroom suite (including dressing area and en-suite) and a private terrace with a fabulous outlook.

With just six superb two- and three-bed units remaining in the Science Building, book your viewing today!

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BRISTOL LIFE I 83

BRISTOL LIVES

“People need music for so many reasons: to escape, to feel understood, for comfort”

LAURA KIDD

You may know her better as Penfriend: the Bristol-based singer, songwriter and producer whose new album has been storming the music charts

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t’s not the first time that Laura’s performed and recorded under a pseudonym; in pre-Penfriend days, she worked extensively as She Makes War. So what’s the story behind the new name?

“As a child, I moved to a new city or country every three years,” she says. ”I stayed in touch with a few old school friends by letter, and added more correspondents through penpal schemes in kids’ magazines.

“As my solo career progressed, sending albums and merchandise out via mail order became a bigger part of my life. I realised that the songs themselves, as well as the items I was posting around the world, were my way of establishing that direct line of communication with people I might never meet, but with whom I have something in common.”

Penfriend’s new album, Exotic Monsters, was released in May this

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

year, reaching #24 in the official UK Album Chart and #5 in the Independent Album Chart.

Laura, bring us up to speed on your career so far

Between 2009 and 2019 I released four albums, several EPs, lots of live albums and music videos, and a project-ending collection of alternative versions of two songs from each album. I also played nearly 600 shows under the name She Makes War. In 2009 I could never have imagined that the songs I wrote sitting on the bed in my tiny studio flat would take me on such adventures and bring me into contact with so many people.

Initially, all I wanted was to try and put together a collection of my own songs after having spent a few years playing professionally in other bands (Tricky, Viv Albertine, Lil’ Chris, Alex Parks), and it all built gradually from there.

Towards the end of the project I felt strongly that it was time to steer my ship in a new direction. I no longer felt connected to the name, so I decided to launch Penfriend as a fresh new project for a new decade.

I remain very proud of the music I released in the past, but continuing to feel stuck in a label of my own creation would have been ridiculous.

launch Penfriend project The Correspondent’s Club, and my podcast series, Attention Engineer, in which I speak to fellow musicians and artists from around the world about the highs and lows of the creative life. People need music for so many reasons: to escape, to feel understood, for comfort – so as I was able to continue writing and recording as usual, I felt it would have been wrong to stop.

Please sum up the music style of Exotic Monsters

Your songs express strong opinions about social media – what’s your own experience?

Indie rock with a synth sparkle.

Tell us about some of your favourite Bristol bands/artists

Silver Stairs Of Ketchikan, Emily Breeze and National Treasure.

Which local venues do you most enjoy playing or visiting?

The Fleece, The Louisiana, SWX. What historic gig do you wish you could have been at?

I would have loved to see Cat Power in a small venue.

Was the ‘downtime’ of lockdown helpful creatively?

I work for myself, so there was no opportunity for downtime. I wrote most of Exotic Monsters in 2019 and early 2020, and recorded half the songs in 2019 and half in autumn 2020 in my home studio, The Launchpad.

I also wrote, recorded and released a song called Everything Looks Normal In The Sunshine during the first lockdown, which ended up being the first Penfriend single to come out. It felt good to be able to contribute something during such an uncertain time.

Tell us about your other lockdown projects

I stuck to my long-held plans to

Social media is how I have grown my audience over the years, but I think it’s too easy as an artist to trick yourself into thinking you’re doing something useful by having a chat online, instead of putting your energy into creating things.

It’s a left brain vs right brain thing, I think, not to mention the dopamine hit we’ve all got so addicted to.

I’m very interested in finding ways to access the wonderful aspects of social media (great people, interesting ideas) and minimise the downsides (losing 45 minutes every time I pick up my phone, getting annoyed at things that don’t concern me), and it’s a continuing journey for me.

Do you have a favourite Bristol restaurant?

The best food in Bristol can be eaten at Tapestry Brewery – Aurora Kusina serves the most incredible Filipino Street Food.

Throughout the lockdowns they offered takeaway deliveries across the city, brightening up every weekend, and now they have a food truck at Tapestry. Go go go!

For more: penfriend.rocks @penfriendrocks on social