RELIVE THE GLORY DAYS OF ’70S HOLLYWOOD AT CINEMA REDISCOVERED
As a dorky teenager, I spent much of my free time in the darkened auditorium of my local Odeon; I could have been a mushroom instead of an editor. I didn’t realise it then, but these were glory days for film fans. n era when auteur directors were considered mainstream; when studios weren’t scared to invest in screenplays which didn’t feature superheroes, and cinema chains weren’t terrified of anything that came with subtitles.
If that has you feeling nostalgic, or if you’re just a little bit weary of MCU domination – and yes, I know there are some great alternatives out there, as long as you have access to indie cinemas, which Bristol, of course, does – you’ll give a sigh of relief when this year’s Cinema Rediscovered rolls around this month, with a fresh crop of restored classic movies along with obscure ones you never realised you needed to watch.
It’s not just screenings, either; there are plenty of panels and discussions, one of them being The Chinatown Dilemma. Chinatown is critically acclaimed as one of the best films of the s, if not of all time, but along with all of Polanski’s output it will always be tarnished by the director’s rape conviction. Can we – should we – separate the art from the artist? The panel explores the ethical and moral questions opened up by the inclusion of the film in this year’s festival.
f you’re still too con icted, just go and see lain Delon as the ice-cool assassin in Le Samouraï. The crime thriller is said to have inspired corsese, Tarantino, the Coens, Edgar Wright and many others – but then French cinema was often way ahead of the Hollywood pack.
If this was the Bristol Film Fest, of course, the movies would come ready-paired with a suitable cocktail, but as it isn’t we’ve come up with a sixpage selection of cooler shakers for you to mix yourself. There are plenty more delights in this issue too, as per usual, but I’ve run out of column space, also as per usual – so best just get icking.
Bristol Life editor @BristolLifeMag
Before Scorsese, Tarantino and the brothers Coen came Alain Delon in Le Samouraï
ON THE COVER
Jack’s back, along with a bunch of other classics and curios at Cinema Rediscovered; see page 28
14 WHAT’S ON It may be midsummer, but it’s not as sleepy out there as you might imagine 28 CINEMA Seven pages of cine-wonderment; you’re welcome
36 BRISTOL HEROES Summer in the city 41 BOOKS Beach reads, Storysmith style
FOOD & DRINK
44 RESTAURANT Have you met Mr Jones? 46 FOOD AND DRINK NEWS Edible Bristol 50 COCKTAILS The shakers gonna shake, shake, shake, shake, shake
59 CAFÉ SOCIETY It’s a Top Ten rating from Stan
LIFESTYLE
62 ED’S CHOICE All white now (baby) 64 INTERIORS A far cry from IKEA
BUSINESS
67 NETWORK Starring a very special interview with Aardman MD Sean Clarke
PROPERTY
80 SHOWCASE ou’ll never suffer from neighbour nuisance again
Zannah Chisholm
Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Colin Moody, Stan Cullimore, Storysmith Books, Kirsty Lake Commercial manager Neil Snow neil.snow@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Craig Wallberg craig.wallberg@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Tony Robinson tony.robinson@mediaclash.co.uk Production/distribution manager 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
Not entirely unexpectedly, given the time of year, this issue’s Spotlight is 99% balloons + Harbourside
SO WRONG, IT’S RIGHT
rong rousers ay – rand ppeal’s annual fundraiser, which encourages everyone to wear ludicrous legwear to raise funds for ristol hildren’s ospital – officially took place on une this year.
s an extra bit of wackiness on the day, a particularly silly pair of cheesy giant trousers were suspended from the allace romit moon rocket balloon, piloted by xclusive allooning across the city.
ncidentally, while rong rousers ay itself may have been and gone, you can get involved all year round see www.grandappeal.org.uk
Exhibition EYES ON THE SKIES
e’ll all have cricks in our neck by mid ugust, but if a summer’s worth of ga ing up at colourful gasbags oating across the sky still isn’t enough for you, head to erospace ristol later this month for their new exhibition Look Up!
n partnership with ameron alloons., the exhibition sets out to discover how ristol became the home of hot air ballooning in the , from the maiden voyage of the Bristol Belle, – ritain’s first modern hot air balloon– up to the present day annual alloon iesta.
ou’ll be able to see the original envelope and burner from the Bristol Belle, along with a half balloon, basket and burner displayed alongside the last oncorde ever to y there are objects from rbiter , the balloon that made the first non stop around the world balloon ight, and loads of activities including a chance to design your own hot air balloon using the ky ketcher app the best designs will be selected by the experts at ameron alloons.
et the gift shop’s worth a look, too.
From 24 July-1 September; the Big Balloon Weekend, a special weekend of ballooning-related activities, runs 3-4 August; www.aerospacebristol.org.
No, you weren’t drunk, this actually happened
Heritage YARD TIMES
More positive news from Underfall Yard, as it continues to recover from its major fire last year. ewly released artist images show how the ig hed and workshops could look once rebuilt the plans by lec rench rchitects are designed to preserve the historic fabric of the buildings while bringing them up to modern standards, returning the site to a fully functioning working boatyard as soon as is practical.
ll new materials used in the repair and rebuild will be appropriate to the historic context, complementing those which already exist throughout the ard. everal historical assets have also been retained for re use, including cast iron columns, bargeboard bricks, downpipes and guttering.
he first part of the recovery is complete, with the walkway having reopened along with the visitor centre and caf . he shipyard has remained open to its businesses as much as possible since the fire, with the team working hard to provide alternative workshop space to those that need it, where available. he planning application has been submitted to ristol ity ouncil. eanwhile you can donate on the ust iving page at recovery underfallyard.co.uk – or just visit the heritage centre and cafe, all proceeds are directed back into the charity. ook out, too, for the new outdoor market, with up to stalls from makers, craftspeople and artisan producers, due to open on uly. www.underfallyard.co.uk
OFFICIALLY, LUSH
According to a new survey by outdoor gear retailers Millets, Bristol is England’s most ecofriendly region, scoring 9.27 out of a possible 10.
The survey praised the city’s proximity to lush countryside, its parks and gardens (on average, 4.5 parks per 1000-metre radius) and the support it offers to sustainable travel. Then there are the scenic cycling paths, walking trails, and the nature reserves, from nationally important salt marshes to wetland wildflower grassland and ancient woodlands. Finally, clinching the deal is Bristol’s annual emissions rate of 6.9 per km2 – to put it in context, that’s exactly half of Liverpool’s, which came in at number two on the list.
So that’s nice.
www.millets.co.uk/blog/eco-friendly-destinations
Plans for the Big Shed and workshops; the visitor centre and café have already reopened
Beat the evil algorithms! Follow us on instagram and tag us with your pics: @bristollifemag
SPRAY FOR BS3
It’s been another fabulous year for Upfest, and everyone’s insta-captures have brightened up our feed no end. Big thanks to David Chan, aka @david.multicapture, for tagging us – we love how David’s photos feature all the artists in situ, so we invited him to curate this issue’s Brizzogram for us.
Artist: Mister Samo @mister.samo
Artist: Caryn Koh @carynbearkoh
Artist: EPOD @epod3000
Artist: Mau Mau @maumauart
Artist: Jody @jody_artist
Artist: SEPC @sepc_
Artist: Liam Bononi @liambononi
Artist: Audrey Kawasaki @audkawa
Artist: Katie Scott @katiescott_creative
Artist: Megan Oldhues @oldhues
Artist: Andy Council @andycouncil
Artist: Tymon De Laat @tymondelaat OPPOSITE PAGE Artist: Inkie @inkiegraffiti
Inkie
WET WET WET
If it can happen on water, it will happen on water at Bristol Harbour Festival this month. But of course, that’s only part of the story…
Words by Ursula Cole
In 1971, the main aim of Bristol’s first Harbour Festival was to demonstrate how valuable the docks were to the city, and how essential it was to scrap plans to fill them in. We owe those organisers a lot. This first festival was, unsurprisingly, almost exclusively about boats, but since then it’s grown into a huge summer shindig which takes over much of the city centre for a free, three-day party of music, dance, circus, food, daredevil waterfront stunts, and, oh yeah, boats.
Thought you knew what to expect? While many of the highlights are much the same each year, there are a few tweaks for 2024 you may not be aware of. From the familiar to the fresh, the niche to the everpopular, here are 10 reasons to come along and get your nautical kicks between 19-21 July.
1Come for the boats . . .
Well, obviously; they’re still at the heart of the festival. Closing the event on Sunday will be the parade of sails, representing the wide variety of craft and activities which define Harbourside: the paddle boarders, sailing boats, ferries, gig clubs, social rowers, marine schools, kayakers and the lottery-winworthy gin palaces.
Look out for festival favourite Pyronaut, who’ll be demonstrating her powerful water cannons once again. Originally named Bristol Phoenix II, she was built in 1934 by Charles Hill & Sons at Albion Dockyard, as a specialised form of fireboat known as a fire float.
HARBOUR FESTIVAL
3Come for the dancing
The Dance Tent is back at Queen Square, this year programmed by Trinity Bristol and Movema, with dance troupes from LA Dance, Bristol Ballroom, Gerry’s Attic, RSVP Bhangra Drummers and more shaking their booty, from belly dancing to street-style, ballroom to Bhangra.
2…Including Thekla
Bristol’s famous gig boat turned 40 this year, and her weekend line-up is set to be a big, bold celebration which includes the signature silent disco on the top deck. She’s also spreading the musical joy onto dry land; Piratitude will be closing the boat down on Saturday with its rowdy, roofraising folk-rock sea shanties, while the 789s perform catchy covers of classics at end of play on Sunday evening.
4Come for the tall tales
The new Expression Stage will be hosting spoken-word events: a diverse mix of poetry and storytelling, along with talks from leaders from Bristol’s music industry. It’s your go-to spot for a dose of creativity and inspiration.
5Come for the sky- high thrills
James Prestwood returns with his flyboarding stunts; he’s
Fringe benefits
You don’t need to travel to Edinburgh this summer; the new Fringe Festival sees local businesses, cafés, bars and cultural hotspots getting in on the action beyond the official festival grounds, with many corners and side streets enlivened by music, dance parties and more, across multiple venues.
keeping this year’s fancy-dress outfit under wraps, but you know he’ll be bringing all the classic tunes and daring dives.
6Come for the circus
The Family Playground takes over College Green again, with Bristol circus institution Cirque Bijou bringing their flips and tricks over a weekend of thrilling acrobatics, trapeze, aerial displays, interactive workshops and performances from some of the city’s top circus schools and groups.
7Come for that sinking feeling
The cardboard boat race is the most highly anticipated sporting event of the fest, with hundreds cheering on those brave souls attempting to sail their homemade carboard craft. Dressing up is key; who can forget last year’s Fab Four in their (ultimately doomed) Yellow Submarine? Head to Prince Street Bridge good and early to bag the best spot; the fun starts on 12.40 on Sunday.
8Come for the tunes
Expect the best in back-to-back music at Harbour View (ie, Lloyd’s) from local and international talent including Eva Lazarus, She’s Got Brass, Grove and The Beatles Dub Club, with programming from industry heavyweights Greenpeace, Global Local and a Made In Bristol Sunday curated by Proud and Swans Events.
9Come for the food
There’s always tasty food; new for this year is Josh Eggelton’s Seafood Festival, which runs run during the week leading up to the Bristol Harbour Festival. More on page 49.
10Come
for the dragons
A fearsome new addition to this year’s On The Water programme is Dragon Boat Racing with the Bristol Empire Dragons. If you fancy channelling your inner Daenerys Targaryen you’ll also be able to take part in training sessions (NB pic left doesn’t show the actual boats, but you get the general idea). n 8
IN THE ZONE
Planning on joining the 250k or so revellers over the 19-21 July weekend? We don’t want you to get lost, so here are the main zones
LLOYD’S AMPHITHEATRE
The musical heart of the fest, the Harbour View stage at Lloyd’s brings the best back-to-back acts, from local to national and international talent.
QUEEN SQUARE
Welcoming all communities, Bristol Rising and the Dance Tent present emerging artists, from grassroots music and dance institutions.
MILLENNIUM SQUARE
The site of the Expressions Stage, with spoken word, talks, panel discussions, etc.
ON THE WATER
Every kind of craft and waterbased activity you can think of.
COLLEGE GREEN
The fest’s family playground, with street-style circus performances. www.bristolharbourfestival.co.uk
WHAT’S ON
5-26 July 2024
EXHIBITIONS
Until 11 August
VALDA JACKSON: MISS POLLY
A thought-provoking exhibition featuring spoken word, text, sculpture and painting which delves into the realms of neurological research and the concept of the unfinished brain’ a poignant aspect of alda’s work is in uenced by experiences of Generation Windrush children. RWA, rwa.org.uk
WINDRUSH: PORTRAITS OF A PIONEERING GENERATION
Ten portraits of remarkable Caribbean-British individuals by ten leading artists a powerful reminder of personal resilience, determination and the positive impact of diversity across ritain. At RWA, rwa.org.uk
Until 1 September
THE HAY WAIN
The Constable masterpiece at ristol useum rt allery is at the centre of an exhibition exploring landscape through art bristolmuseums.org.uk
Until 8 September
DONALD RODNEY: VISCERAL CANKER
Major exhibition of the late British artist, whose work is known for being
incisive, acerbic and evocative in its analysis of the prejudices and injustices surrounding racial identity. Spike Island, www.spikeisland.org.uk
Until 29 September
ADÉBAYO BOLAJI: PRAISE OF BEAUTY
Enter the kaleidoscopic and multidisciplinary world of d bayo, whose solo exhibition explores and uestions notions of beauty through painting, sculpture, film and writing. t rnolfini. arnolfini or u
NENGI OMUKU: THE DANCE OF PEOPLE AND THE NATURAL WORLD
ourney into the lush landscapes of Nigerian artist Nengi Omuku, whose human figures blend seamlessly with nature, exploring the relationship between individual and collective thought, belonging, and psychological spaces that transcend traditional Western landscape painting. t rnolfini. arnolfini or u
11 July-28 September
I’M COM’UN HOME IN THE MORN’UN
Elaine Constantine presents her dynamic and full colour photos of the Northern Soul scene of the s at artin arr oundation martinparrfoundation.org
16 July-8 August
COUNTRY
A group Aboriginal art exhibition exploring the connection each artist has with their homeland and culture at oe allery, coegallery.com
SHOWS
Until 6 July
A CHILD OF SCIENCE
ew play charting the events which led to one of the most remarkable medical breakthroughs of our time: the creation of . ecognisable physogs om elton and eg ellamy, and director atthew unster, bring box office allure. t bristololdvic.org.uk
PLAYER KINGS
hopefully recovered an c ellen plays alstaff in a new version of hakespeare’s Henry IV Parts I and II, adapted by award winning writer and director obert cke one of the theatrical highlights of the year, at Bristol Hippodrome, atgtickets.com
9-13 July
SOME DEMON am’s and her life’s about to start. oe’s something and hers never did. hey don’t have much in common just a shared love of ’ s New Wave and an eating disorder. Bristol Old Vic, bristololdvic.org.uk
10-11 July
LITTLE(ISH) WOMEN
xploring ouisa ay lcott’s story in a bold and contemporary new light, combining classic literature and ’ s ’ s female pop artists in a heartfelt celebration of sisterhood and stories lma avern heatre almatavernandtheatre.co.uk
10 July-11 August
ALADDIN
ou’ve seen the isney animation, you may well have seen the live action movie now get ready to enter A Whole New World when the stage musical comes to Bristol Hippodrome. atgtickets.com
12 July-11 August
THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE COYOTE UGLY
Enter an untamed, lawless frontier – a parched landscape of bloody violence, passionate romance and line-dancing, where the heroes are good, the villains are bad and the guy you slept with last night is so ugly you’d rather gnaw your own arm off than wake him. he classic ardrobe comedy mash up rides again: thewardrobetheatre.com
12-14 July
THE NAMES, THE NAMES
A one-act show of scenes, songs and souvenirs from the legendary
Bristol Old Vic production Up The Feeder, Down The Mouth, together with previously unheard dockers’ stories; presented by John Telfer, Kate McNab and Ross Harvey at Alma Tavern; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk
12 July
RUSH: A JOYOUS JAMAICAN JOURNEY
The story of how reggae arrived with the Windrush Generation and evolved through the decades to take the world by storm. Written and narrated by comedian John Simmit, and featuring ska, rocksteady, calypso, gospel, lovers rock, dancehall and, of course, reggae: get ready to dance to the music of esmond ekker, immy liff, ob Marley and many, others, all played live by the JA Reggae Band. At Bristol Old Vic, bristololdvic.org.uk
22-23 July
DOT, THE FAUN AND THE ELFIN CHILD
We’re back in the summer of the pandemic and Dot’s daughter is driving her nuts as she deals with home education along with her own midlife crisis. Her daughter has her own issues. Then a faun statue appears in their garden... A playful and poignant new show from DotDotDotTheatre, at Alma Tavern; almatavernandtheatre.co.uk
16-18 July
UNCANNY: I KNOW WHAT I SAW
Don’t believe in ghosts? Bring an
open mind as Danny Robbins and team relate and debate tales of contemporary (possible) hauntings, at the (possibly) haunted Bristol Old Vic. bristololdvic.org.uk
COMEDY
Ongoing
CLOSER EACH DAY
All the drama of Succession. The grit of EastEnders. The rumpy-pumpy of Sex Education. Not remotely like Responder; the world’s longestrunning improvised comedy soap continues to bubble away at The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
Until 5 July
SARAH MILLICAN: LATE BLOOMER
When Sarah was little, she wouldn’t say boo to a goose. Quiet at school, not many mates, no boobs until she was 16. Now, she’s loud, with good friends, a cracking rack and goosebooing all over the shop. Come along, laugh at her, with her, beside her; at Beacon, bristolbeacon.org
7 July
STEVE BUGEJA: SELF DOUBT (I THINK)
The u erin creator/star is touring again, and this time he’s discussing babies, eye tests and that time he went on holiday with 20 women. At The Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
9 July
SOFIE HAGEN: WILL I EVER HAVE SEX AGAIN?
Part-memoir, part-exploration, as ofie attempts to figure out why she hasn’t had sex in over 3,000 days; at Bristol Old Vic, bristololdvic.org.uk
11 July
HUGE DAVIES & DAN WYE
It’s Edinburgh preview season again: come along to check out Huge, with his surreal material and customised keyboard; and Dan, exploring the power and joy in your identity and the reality of it being taken away by someone with four Brit awards. At Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com
12 July
MIRIAM MARGOLYES: OH MIRIAM! LIVE
More juicy stories from Miriam’s eventful life and career, from the time she declared her love to Vanessa Redgrave to being fed cockroaches by Steve Buscemi; from Graham Norton’s sofa to Alan Cumming’s camper van; at Bristol Beacon; bristolbeacon.org
TOPTOBOTTOM A whole new world: Disney’s Aladdin comes to Hippodrome; he’s still The Man: Van at Forest Live; no, not a Beyoncé tribute act, but the return of The Good, the Bad and the Coyote Ugly at Wardrobe
13 July
RICHARD HERRING
CAN I HAVE MY BALL BACK?
Richard has survived testicular cancer – an illness which, for a comedian who’d done a whole show on male genitalia and written a book about toxic masculinity, felt like a cruel trick of fate. He’s back talking bollocks and answering the question on everyone’s lips: is a severed gonad in a jar a fitting pri e to bring in for Taskmaster? Bristol Old Vic, bristololdvic.org.uk
14 July
IVO GRAHAM & MAT EWINS
Another pre-Edinburgh preview pair. umbling a ute, combusting over a Cork accent, scaring Diane from The Traitors with a T-shirt of her face: what awaits Ivo next? Matt presides over a smorgasbord of daring challenges, offering cash in an effort to discover the most danger defying people in the audience. At Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com
15 July
OLGA KOCH & JENNY COLLIER
Olga’s Russian. Her new show is called Comes from Money, and she’s finally addressing that particular elephant in the room. Jenny’s Welsh, and riffing about her post ovid glow down and a legal battle about how rude she is. Both are trialling new material pre-Edinburgh at Wardrobe; thewardrobetheatre.com
19 July
GARRY STARR: CLASSIC PENGUINS
Garry’s saving literature by performing every Penguin Classic novel ever written in an hour. Mostly naked, but with ippers. ontains nudity and audience participation,” warns the blurb; we’re not sure which to be frightened of most. At Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com
21 July
SARA BARRON & LOU WALL
Chicago-born Sara is one of the fastest-rising comedians of her generation; Lou is fuelled entirely by delusion, tequila and the girls’ group chat, on a journey from the pits of personal hell to comic stardom. Pre-Edinburgh tryout, at Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com
22 July
LARRY DEAN & BRENNAN REECE
Larry’s trying some new jokes. Meanwhile, everything’s going perfectly for cheeky Northern gobshite Brennan, until he gets fired for telling a joke. nly joking. et more pre dinburgh shi le at Wardrobe, thewardrobetheatre.com
GIGS
Ongoing
BRISTOL BEACON
With daily gigs, encompassing orchestral, folk, world, indie, ja
TOPTOBOTTOM: Yes, we definitely want you, baby: Human League at the big Bristol Pride party; it’s a Barbie world for Katie Scott over at Weston Wallz; Richard wants his ball back at BOV
and less easily classifiable shi le for full programme see bristolbeacon.org
ST GEORGE’S BRISTOL
lassical, world, folk, talks, more, at t eorge’s stgeorgesbristol.co.uk
5-12 July
FOREST LIVE
pen air gigs at estonbirt rboretum, with an eclectic line up of acts playing against the forest setting. regory orter’s in for uly, nne arie on the th, he orrs on the th, an orrison on the th. oing out with the ultimate party on uly it’s ile odgers with guest star ophie llis extor sounds cracking. forestlive.com
19 July
UBUNYE
fun cultural mash up imagine, if you can (must admit we can’t, but it sounds promising a sonic force uniting glorious isig i traditional ulu harmony singing, vibrant afro pop and dynamic ja . otham arish hurch cothamparishchurch.org
8 July
GLADYS KNIGHT: THE FAREWELL TOUR
et another last chance saloon to hear a legend at eacon, as ladys brings her powerful soul help her make it through the night, why don’t you bristolbeacon.org
26 July
JON HOPKINS
he electronic artist, producer and classically trained composer, whose solo and collaborative works have received widespread acclaim and awards, comes to ristol eacon bristolbeacon.org
FESTIVALS
Ongoing
BRISTOL FILM FESTIVAL
he year round fest with the something for everyone remit. ook out for the lifton ummer creenings in he all ardens between uly. ristolfilm esti al com
Until 13 July
BRISTOL PRIDE
he usual fortnight of rainbow coloured treats, culminating in ride ay, where s legends he uman eague are headlining the party at the owns bristolpride.co.uk
Until 14 July
QUEER FILM FESTIVAL repare for tears of joy and heartbreak, conversations started, s, beard bars, dancing and empowerment the cine offshoot of ride is back bristolpride.co.uk
19-21 July
HARBOUR FESTIVAL
he free extravagan a returns to arbourside with family activities music, circus, food markets, on water stunts and, oh yeah, boats more on page . bristolharbourfestival.co.uk
19-28 July
WESTON WALLZ
he annual pfest goes to event, with plenty of ristol faves along with pfest rtist for , ister amo upfest.co.uk
24-28 July
CINEMA REDISCOVERED he ’s leading festival of classic cinema and film restorations returns to venues in and around ristol big feature on page . watershed.co.uk
OTHER
Ongoing, until October SHOW OF STRENGTH he walking tours return for , with the new for ary rant tour joining walks about pirates, smugglers and other themes showofstrength.org.uk
BRISTOL TRANSATLANTIC SLAVERY WALK
he walk on the slave trade and its impact on ristol, from the harbour, to the city centre, ueen uare and ing treet bristoltours.co.uk
6-7 July
BRISTOL TATTOO CONVENTION
t shton ate tadium, with over of the finest tattoo artists from around the globe maybe get inked while you’re there skiddle.com
26-28 July
FEAST ON
op restaurants and traders showcase their signature dishes at this new food event up on the owns skiddle.com n
SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER
Enjoy unforgettable family days out over the holidays, with these top venues and activities
Adventure Bristol has been providing fun-filled climbing activities since launching its Leap of Faith site at Bristol Zoo Project in 2014. Last year it expanded its offer with the opening of an exciting new Tree Tops high-ropes course set in the beautiful Ashton Court woodland. Adventure Bristol founder, Chris Ireson, says: “The course has been designed for anyone looking for a fun day out. Three different routes offer an exciting array of fun walkways, leaps, jumps and treezips, with an exhilarating zipwire to finish.” Now rated by TripAdvisor as Bristol’s No 1 outdoor activity, they hope to welcome their 10,000th visitor later this month.
NATIONAL TRUST: TYNTESFIELD
WRAXALL, BRISTOL, NORTH SOMERSET, BS48 1PA
TEL: 01275 461900
WWW.NATIONALTRUST.ORG.UK/TYNTESFIELD
Tyntesfield has a summer jam-packed with activities and experiences perfect for families. Their six-week itinerary is full of fun ways to play, including Victorian games, camping stations and a game trail that takes you across the estate. There are also three play areas to choose from across Tyntesfield for those who want to play at their own pace. For those who want to kick back, enjoy the sunshine, and take beautiful pictures, Tyntesfield offers a varied landscape to enjoy the summer weather in, with over 540 acres of parkland, woodland and gardens packed with flowers in full bloom to enjoy.
LITTLE TOWN ADVENTURES
27 BEACH ROAD, WESTON-SUPER-MARE, BS23 1AY
TEL: 01934 311 839
WWW.LITTLETOWNADVENTURES.CO.UK
Little Town Adventures: where theatre meets play. Come to our mini-recreation of Weston-super-Mare, with lights, music and lots of surprises on the way. It’s a new two-hour immersive experience in which children become part of the story and are set off into a world of imaginative play, before coming back together for the grand finale. Our two-storey town has so much to explore, carefully crafted to encourage role play, creativity and problem-solving in kids aged 1-10, and big kids too. A one-of-a-kind experience, not to be missed.
NATIONAL TRUST: DYRHAM PARK
DYRHAM PARK, SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE, SN14 8HY
TEL: 0117 9372501
WWW.NATIONALTRUST.ORG.UK/DYRHAM-PARK
From 20 July to 3 September, Summer of Play is running with a wide range of active and creative activities for all the family in the great outdoors, including a ‘Dyrham decathlon’ challenge. Up at Old Lodge in the parkland there’s a play area for youngsters to explore as well as an ice-cream kiosk and a café. Stride out across the 270-acre deer park with views right over to Wales, or pop into the Baroque house that’s brimming with 17th-century stories. Pick a spot in the orchard for a picnic or wander through the garden. Dyrham Park is open daily from 10am to 5pm.
PHOTO: NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES/JAMES DOBSON
PHOTO: NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES/JAMES DOBSON
THE CLIMBING ACADEMY
THE CHURCH, MINA ROAD, ST WERBURGH’S, BRISTOL, BS2 9YQ TEL: 01179 413 489
WWW.THECLIMBINGACADEMY.COM
Inspired by Olympic climbing? Experience the thrill at The Church in St Werburgh’s! This converted church offers an atmospheric adventure for all ages (6+) and abilities. No strength or experience needed – just bring your curiosity. Choose from kids-only, family, or adult taster sessions. Our friendly, expert instructors will guide you up roped walls, ensuring a safe and exhilarating experience. The Climbing Academy also offers summer fun at The Mothership in Bristol and The Arc in Chippenham. Discover a new passion, challenge yourself and create unforgettable memories. Book your taster session today and feel the rush of reaching the top!
WAKE THE TIGER
WAKE THE TIGER, 127 ALBERT RD, BRISTOL, BS2 0YA
WWW.WAKETHETIGER.COM
Wake The Tiger is the UK’s largest immersive art experience and the world’s first Amazement Park. Based in Bristol, this award-winning, family visitor attraction is fun for all ages. Step through a portal into the alternate world of Meridia, where you arrive in an abandoned research facility. Through this selfguided tour, you will discover 40 unique spaces showcasing the wild experiments the Meridians carried out in order to try and solve the environmental and societal problems of their world. With discounted family tickets available and Adult-only evenings with no kids allowed on selected Fridays, there is something to amaze everyone this Summer.
THE WAVE
THE WAVE, WASHINGPOOL FARM, EASTER COMPTON, BS35 5RE
EMAIL: HELLO@THEWAVE.COM
WWW.THEWAVE.COM
The Wave is a slice of the ocean, inland near Bristol. Offering perfect, guaranteed waves for surfers of all abilities, it’s the perfect place to learn to surf this summer. But The Wave is more than just surfing; with free parking and free entry, families can spend a day at The Wave with or without getting wet. The play park and skate ramp will keep kids of all ages entertained for hours, and the shoreline café and restaurant offer breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, great-tasting coffee and a fully licenced bar. It’s a must-visit this holiday.
WEST COUNTRY WATER PARK
WEST COUNTRY WATER PARK, THE LANE, TRENCH LANE, BRISTOL, BS36 1RY
TEL: 01454 538 538
WWW.WESTCOUNTRYWATERPARK.CO.UK
Welcome to our waterside haven, just 15 minutes from Bristol City Centre! Jump into fun-filled activities like open water swimming, paddleboarding, the Aqua Park our on-water inflatable obstacle, or windsurfing. After your adventures, relax at our café, where you can savour delicious meals, refreshing drinks, and a friendly atmosphere. Our menu features delightful waterside coffees and lunches. Perfect for unwinding by the water, our cosy café is the ideal spot to enjoy good cheer and beautiful views. Whether you’re seeking excitement or relaxation, we offer the perfect escape. Waste time wisely this summer and join us to create unforgettable memories by the water!
CINE QUA NON
Step away from the multiplex: Cinema Rediscovered is back this month with a fresh batch of classic renovations, rediscoveries and curios
Words by Deri Robins
Films ain’t what they used to be. Actually, that’s not remotely true – outstanding new ones are being made all the time, as international film festivals go to show. It’s just the industry around them that’s changed.
Studios are far more risk-averse than they were half a century ago. Got a brilliant idea for a movie? Unless your pitch involves a mutant superhero or two, you’ll probably need independent financing to get it off the ground. Even if it does get made, and goes on to receive a 20-minute standing ovation at Cannes, if it smacks too much of the art house and/or has, god forbid, subtitles, you’re unlikely to see it at your local multiplex. Luckily, Bristol has some great indie cinemas, notably Watershed, to redress the balance.
Maybe that’s why it’s such a special treat when Cinema Rediscovered rolls around again, giving us our annual chance to see new restorations of classic movies up on the big screen along with a bunch of obscure films you never knew existed. omplementing the screenings are talks, Q&As (some with movie-making notables), workshops, cinema-themed walks and even a quiz; you can see the full programme at the Watershed website, but below are just a few of the events which call out to our cine-geeky little hearts.
REDEFINING COOL
lain elon so beautiful that filmgoers would have ocked to see him recite the Paris phone book. In fact, he starred in several outstanding movies, some of which were streets ahead of Hollywood.
Take the 1960 Ripley adaptation Plein Soleil, for example, made 39 years before Minghella’s The Talented Mr Ripley. Or sprawling family crime epic Rocco and his Brothers (same year), thought to have in uenced
M. Delon plays it cool in Le Samourai
“Le Samouraï defined cinematic cool, and inspired films by TarantinoScorsese, and many others”
CINEMA
another sprawling, almost-three-hour family crime epic. Or the breezy 1930s-set gangster movie Borsalino (1970), in which Alain bounced charismatically off fellow rench pin up ean aul elmondo, beating Newman and Redford in The Sting by several years.
erhaps his most famous and memorable role, however, was the impassive assassin ef ostello in ean ierre elville’s neo noir thriller Le Samouraï – a performance which redefined cinematic cool and is credited with inspiring films by corsese, arantino, ohn oo, dgar right and the oen rothers. ome to inema ediscovered and see, admire, swoon, whatever, at the new restoration by ath and the riterion ollection at ’ mmagine itrovata.
PUT THE BLAME ON MAME
ow regarded as a supreme example of film noir, harles idor’s Gilda originally received a lukewarm reception from critics. t took their more discerning rench contemporaries to point out that the film was an important part of a new postwar American genre; moodier, darker, more cynical, pessimistic and sexually frank than ever before, shot in a style reminiscent of erman expressionism. hiaroscuro Rita Hayworth sometimes appears in virtual darkness.
Unlike many noir heroines, and despite her memorably sultry performance of Put the Blame on Mame, ilda is no femme fatale she’s more of a pawn trapped between two competitive men. ove and hate are inextricably linked hate you so much that would destroy myself to take you down with me, ilda spits at len ord’s ohnny given the film’s prevailing themes of lust, possessiveness and cruelty, it somehow feels appropriate that the actress was later to state, ruefully, that very
man knew went to bed with ilda and woke up with me. inema ediscovered presents a restoration of Gilda, following its international premi re at this year’s annes lassics, along with a look at ita ayworth’s che uered life and career it also marks years of olumbia ictures.
LONE STAR STATE OF MIND
ot a estern fan ine, but don’t skip past this one, because not only was it written, edited, and directed by ohn ayles but stars a young atthew c onaughey. urthermore, instead of being your standard High Noon style frontierfest, the scar nominated Lone Star is a neo estern mystery set in a small exan town, examining the resentments and secrets which distort relationships between individuals, generations and whole communities. any regard it as a high point of s independent cinema, as well as one of ayles’ best films. inema ediscovered is showing the premi re of the new digital restoration, which has been supervised both by ohn ayles and director of photography tuart ryburgh. ayles will also be supporting the event with an online contribution.
OUT OF THEIR DEPTH
hey were rightly celebrated as great movies in their own right when they first came out in the mid s, but it’s only in hindsight that we can grasp how accurately they tapped into the zeitgeist. he unifying theme in Scandal and Lies in the New Hollywood is the way in which public certainties about American values were being eroded by revelations about corruption, scandal and lies, including around the ietnam ar, the brutality of merican troops and atergate. n
“Despite her sultry rendition of Put the Blame on Mame, Gilda is no femme fatale”
Gilda in all her restored 4K glory
18 years before playing True Detective’s Rust Cohle, Matthew McConaughey was Sherrif Buddy Wade in Lone Star; Marlowe fails to crack his toughest case; forget it Jake, it’s Chinatown
CINEMA
“The Trilogy is far from straightforward autobiography; the films are not so much social realism as poetic realism”
cinema, this led to the traditional hero of the classic studio era being replaced by protagonists who, while they thought they were in control, found themselves increasingly out of their depth.
hree of the films are receiving a th anniversary screening ydney Pollack’s The Parallax View, Francis Ford Coppola’s The Conversation, and a premi re of the new mm print of oman olanski’s Chinatown – part of the ’s prints project, and courtesy of its national film archive. Don’t say, “Polanski should be cancelled”; do say, “Come along to The Chinatown Dilemma, a panel exploring the ethical and moral questions opened up by the inclusion of the director’s work”.
Others in the strand include Arthur Penn’s Night Moves and ydney
Pollack’s Three Days of The Condor (both . h, and always thought Bogart was the ultimate Philip Marlowe? Well, he probably was, but it doesn’t make lliott ould’s take on handler’s sardonic in The Long Goodbye any less cherishable. Go and see it for Gould’s mumbling, melancholic, perma smoking performance, obert ltman’s satirical, naturalistic direction, the loungy ja score – and, of course, for the pre-and post-credits scene in which Marlowe tries to fool his cat into eating an inferior brand of food. We’ve all been there.
POETIC REALISM
The Bill Douglas Trilogy is regarded as one of the greatest cinematic achievements of the s. hot in startling, bleak monochrome, the powerful My Childhood ( , My Ain Folk ( and My Way Home ( are woven together through the fictional journey of amie, growing up in a poverty-stricken postwar mining village, at the mercy of brutal, loveless surroundings and the relatives and neighbours responsible for his welfare.
owever, rather than being ultimately depressing, the films present a journey of recovery and catharsis amie is a survivor, bold and curious, and his story is ultimately redemptive. As Bill’s friend and fellow film ephemera collector eter ewell has said, the Trilogy is “far from straightforward autobiography his films are not so much social realism as poetic realism”.
The Trilogy is presented in partnership with The Bill Douglas Cinema Museum at the University of Exeter; also showing is Bill Douglas: My Best Friend ( , a new documentary about the friendship between ill and eter ewell. he festival is also hoping to show lost’ ueer film Il Mare by iuseppe atroni riffi, in a mm archive print from ineteca i ologna the film was an important inspiration for ill.
UP WHERE HE BELONGS
This year’s programme also includes a timely celebration of the largely overlooked Bristol director J LEE THOMPSON
There isn’t an official blue pla ue at the estbury on rym house where he was born. ocal newspaper archives contain next to nothing about him. is impressive coup, aged just , for becoming the youngest playwright to get a est nd run went unreported hereabouts. is name only occasionally appears in lists of famous ristolians. et ee hompson ( ugust – ugust earned almost as many major accolades as much more famous ritish film directors such as lfred itchcock, avid ean, ichael owell and arol eed, in a career which saw him helming features. t’s good news, then, that long overdue ristol appreciation is about to come hompson’s way with new k restorations of two of his early films – The Weak and The Wicked ( and No Trees in The Street ( –premi ring at atershed as part of inema ediscovered.
ut the uestion remains why is hompson less well known in his home city than others of a similar vintage who achieved screen or scripting fame – eg ristol educated lynis ohns, sometime lifton resident eborah err, former Western Daily Press journalist om toppard, ristol ni alumnus avid icholls, ristol rammar chool old boy eter ichols, or the still globally iconic ary rant ne reason could be his film choices, says inema ediscovered founder ark osgrove. here was a time in the s when ee hompson was the unsurpassed master of issue based, social realist ritish dramas, e had a special air for bringing out the best in female actors, including the trio who appear in the films we’re showing – iana ors, lynis ohns and ylvia ims. hese earned him
prestigious salutes from , the erlin nternational ilm estival and annes.
ut while he made several commercial and critically acclaimed films in other styles, including The Guns of Navarone, which received seven scar nominations and catapulted him to ollywood, he never uite established himself as an auteur with a style of his own. nstead, he became known for being reliable, liked by actors and studios, a safe pair of hands for genre films with broad audience appeal, but attracting little critical acclaim.
hat said, hompson did get to work with some of th century cinema’s best known names auren acall, ac ueline isset, harles ronson, ul rynner, ony urtis, ock udson, eborah err, hirley ac aine, ohn ills, ayley ills, obert itchum, avid iven, regory eck, and mar harif.
often revisited themes aired in the two films being shown at inema ediscovered desperation arising from circumstance, the temptations of crime, moral dilemmas – all seemingly at odds with his apparently genteel ristol upbringing as the only son of a lifton ollege and ambridge educated engineer and the daughter of a retired ieutenant olonel.
hompson is in danger of being forgotten now, but he directed some of the best ritish films of the s and early ’ s, making him richly deserving of a inema ediscovered showcase, and a ristolian of whom the city can be proud, says ark osgrove. ome and see what we’ve all been missing at atershed The Weak and The Wicked and No Trees in The Street are showing on uly. n www.watershed.co.uk/cinema-rediscovered
CLOCKWISE: UK cinema’s most underrated blonde bombshell, banged up with Mrs Banks!: Diana Dors and Glynis Johns in The Weak and the Wicked; La Dors on set with JLT for another social issue-based drama, Yield to the Night (1956); unofficial plaque affixed to JLT’s first home at 3 Westbury Road by Mark Cosgrove and Andrew Kelly during Bristol’s 1996 celebrations of the centenary of cinema
And just to show how eclectic this festival is, look out for:.
• A 50th anniversary screening of the newly restored Paris Texas, directed by Wim Wenders, fresh from its première at Cannes Classics. The festival hopes that Wenders might attend, online if not in person.
• The English première of new documentary Pouring Water on Troubled Oil, by Bristol lecturer Dr Nariman Massoumi about a little-known trip Dylan Thomas made to Iran in 1951, with a view to his writing a propaganda film for an oil company.
• True Love – the UK première of Nancy Savoca’s newly restored 1989 Sundance winner – a bittersweet comedy about getting cold feet at the altar, which helped to kick off the American independent wave of the 1990s.
• Taiwanese director Edward Yang’s Mahjong (1996), screening alongside A Confucian Confusion (1994).
• Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors (1965) – Sergei Parajanov’s masterpiece of Ukrainian poetic cinema.
• An 80th birthday tribute to the pioneering African-American filmmaker Charles Burnett, featuring a screening of his longlost feature The Annihilation of Fish (1999
• To mark the 100th anniversary of Bristol Archives there’s a showing of 650 Years in 65 Minutes, about the history of the city, with a talk by its director and screenings of a selection of Bristol films held in the archives.
• Also…. Queer Cinema From the Eastern Bloc; Brazil’s first horror film, At Midnight I’ll Take Your Soul (1964); a rare 35mm showing of The Student Nurses (1970) by Stephanie Rothman, the first woman to direct a Roger Corman production.
Just don’t expect to see anything from the MCU. www.watershed.co.uk/cinema-rediscovered
HOT TOWN, SUMMER IN THE CITY
Welcoming in the Bristol solstice – no sarsen stones required
Words and pics by Colin Moody
BRISTOL HEROES
3 2
AS TICK FOLLOWS TOCK follows tick follows tock, summer in Bristol has rolled around. Summer stretches out before you like a big stretchy-out thing. Bristol puts on its ski goggles, and observes and picks its places to play.
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ou may find yourself drinking beer made by giants on the harbour wall outside the rnolfini. r you may find yourself dancing like a pagan in the golden sunshine, seeing ancient promise in the faces of your friends some take their journey to the fields, while some can find it at the bar’s edge with the right company wherever your sweetspot is, find it. his guy has. e took off the goggles, and there was another pair of sunglasses on underneath.
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I’ve been shooting the Bristol summer across the city for years, and it always starts, not with tunics around old rocks stacked on top of each other, but in another altogether rumbly jumbly way, at Love Saves the Day. Here, that moment when summer opens its arms, the power of the sun bringing life to our world, embraced by the open arms of the crowd by the rail, because they know Mike of The Streets is going to do his thing and come over the separation between his world and theirs, and sing in the mosh pit.
Welcome Mike, come on in…
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Summer is a golden land of opportunity in Bristol. Let’s say you run an Afghan community cafe on Stapleton Road, just say that’s you, and when people pass by your corner some just walk, some saunter, but some dump lots of building waste. What to do? There is, of course, the council hotline on y tippers, for sure, or if you are that way inclined you can grab a saw, repurpose the nails left behind and start bashing that waste into a series of planters for some salvaged olive trees and assorted growing things.
It’s summer in Bristol when the can-do people come out and make a difference. ot just that sending endless letters to ity all thing that just pile up angst; nope, hands-on; it’s always been a hands-on city.
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ummer is when stuff happens. eld back by the fro en winter, charged up by the spring, summer is the 100m sprint race in all directions.
All sorts can happen. I spent some time with the student camp outside the University, angry about the investments being made above them, and of course I respect their wishes not to have their faces photographed. Barricades and baklava. We talked a lot. Lessons don’t just happen behind walls.
BRISTOL HEROES
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n the summer you can stretch your wings and find your tribe. t might just be me, but don’t see so many people wearing masks through life on our streets. s ristol the city not just of sanctuary, and so many things, is it not also the city of realness
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ob and amish. amish is the dog. ummer is the time to do things outdoors. ob took the time to brush amish, and they were loving it.
o if you want to groom your omanian rescue dog on the ping pong table on orth treet, you blooming can
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eston super are. here is no more land once you get past the pier it’s the end of the est.
’m seeing a lot of empty units, as they call them, all over the place. ummer might be the summer of the pop up. on’t we need to do something with all these empty spaces e’ve got lending libraries, swap shops, and other ideas that benefit the many, not just the few. aybe we can lead the way forwards, spend a bit of time with a volunteers’ group and build back a better future for our high street
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n summer in ristol you will find art on the walls, and people in front of those walls making art. ound every corner the fabric of our lives is being remade, recreated, fixed, made better, by teams of hopefuls. ou might be at the bar with a pint in your hand one minute, and find yourself spitting bars the next.
ummer is when we redefine this shared metropolis into a place not just of living, but of healing and hope for a better future for us all. often wonder what that wall of Daily Mail reading, it’s always someone else’s fault thinkspeak outside our liberal city really feels about us as they look in and see us at play from their cul de sac patios e are not just a headline, we are a book of many pages, and you never know how the story is going to end. hat’s summer in ristol. et’s get started.
We may have 99 problems, but the beach-read ain’t one
Beach read season is upon us! But you know what we’re like. While we can always get behind any effort to lie motionless in a hot climate, moving only to turn a page or upend a cocktail into our thirsty gullets, we find it trickier to show enthusiasm for more conventional beach read material. Our natural compulsion for decidedly un-relaxing books kind-of gets in the way, so our summer reading recommendations tend towards the niche – although no less engrossing – end of the spectrum. If there’s a little rectangular gap in your suitcase that needs filling, and you’re willing to forego the usual crop of thrillers and romances, we have just the thing…
I Will Crash by Rebecca Watson
If you read Rebecca Watson’s debut novel little scratch (deliberate lower case), then you may already be familiar with the way her text literally skids and crawls across the page, different columns and rows depicting different internal thoughts and external noise, but somehow still making it an eminently readable experience. With her follow-up, I Will Crash, Watson has created something equally as immersive and discombobulating, a visual treat on the page that relates an emotionally devastating story of a woman defined in part by the male figures in her life – a deeply troubled brother, a supportive but ineffectual boyfriend, a dad unwilling to engage – as she comes to terms with trauma in real time.
It’s thrilling, addictive, it might also pulverise your heart.
What Is Mine by José Henrique Bortoluci (trans. Rahul Bery)
The plight of a Brazilian truck driver might not be the most conventional starting point for scintillating memoir, but this slim and searching work makes its unusual focus a massive virtue. Blurring boundaries between memoir and history and cultural enquiry in a totally seamless way, what threads What is Mine together is a series of interviews with Didi, the author’s father, who drove trucks in Brazil over a tumultuous half-century of dictatorship, but who, in a lot of ways, has very little to show for it and little to no inheritance for his children: no diaries, no photos, no money. But what results in this book is an analysis of capitalism, colonialism, Brazilian history, illness, family and masculinity.
“Being sensation-the thirsty little book gremlins that we are, we will always be attracted to a title that promises – of all things – a massacre”jelly
obviously we will always be attracted to a title that promises –of all things – a jelly massacre. We also understand that not everyone is like us, and we’re here to reassure you that this delightful Korean curio is so much more than its sensational title and striking cover art. Spinning through different viewpoints of the same titular gelatinous disaster (including –delightfully – that of a stray cat who has made the now-abandoned theme park their home), themes of social inequality emerge, lopsided family units reach breaking point, all seemingly exhibiting a version of the same desire: to stick together, somehow. A hugely weird and entertaining thrill-ride.
The New Seoul Park Jelly Massacre by Cho Yeeun (trans. Yewon Jung)
Hey, what’s more appropriate holiday reading than a novel that takes place in a theme park? And being the sensation-thirsty little book gremlins that we are,
Well, we did warn you. Our logic is that if you’re holidaying correctly, surely you’ll be relaxed enough to handle anything, right? Frankly, if the thought of a holiday spent analysing the fallout of a gelatinous theme park disaster isn’t sufficiently relaxing to you, then we recommend consulting a milder bookshop.
Visit Storysmith at 36 North Street, Bedminster BS3 1JD 0117 953 7961 www.storysmithbooks.com
START LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE
Begin your therapy journey with Bath psychotherapist and counsellor
LUCIE COLLINS
Life can be wonderful with excitement, joy and contentment. It also brings disappointment, loss, rejection, endings and beginnings we don’t choose or wish for, powerlessness, lack of success, grief and trauma. Navigating such experiences can be at best confusing and bewildering and worse can lead to hopelessness and despair.
Whatever your story holds, my practice offers a respectful, confidential, kind, non judgemental space for your therapeutic journey.
Suffering can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression, stress, issues with relationships, health, and lack of general ability to function. It can be a lonely and desperate place to be but there is a way through and a way forward.
I have faith in the individual’s ability to transcend adversity. It is within us to rebuild, stabilise the mind and soothe the heart. Often it is too difficult to navigate and manage doing so on our own.
Therapy facilitates the journey to find our unique sense of what that means for each of us. No matter what you have experienced and suffered, I am here to support you.
I am an experienced integrative psychotherapist and counsellor. I have a practice in Bath and Bristol. I offer both face-to-face and remote psychotherapy and counselling for either open-ended or time-limited practice, welcoming clients of every gender, sexuality, ethnicity, race, religion, disability and background.
The saying ‘life is short’ can be reeled off as a platitude, but it is true that we don’t have forever to make the most of this life. That being the case it has to be worth finding how to live the best life we can.
“ I HAVE FAITH IN THE INDIVIDUAL’S ABILITY TO TRANSCEND ADVERSITY. IT IS WITHIN US TO REBUILD, STABILISE THE MIND AND SOOTHE THE HEART ”
As a therapist I have the privilege to witness my clients navigate their journey to what is their unique authentic life; authenticity enables us to recognise and nurture the requirements for that ‘best’ life. I work as an integrative therapist. Integrative Therapy draws upon the schools of evidence based psychotherapeutic approaches. It allows me the opportunity to be creative and offer my clients what will support them.
My practice in Bath offers a calm and refreshing therapy room set in a delightful
garden close to the city centre. In Bristol I am fortunate to share delightful designated therapy rooms in the heart of Clifton.
I am an accredited member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society, the Prince’s Trust in Therapeutic Counselling Services. Beginning therapy can feel frightening and daunting but it should also feel hopeful. Finding the right therapist can enable you to start the journey. I would be very happy to hear from you by email or phone. n
It’s silly season once again in the press. Fresh sightings of the Bristol crocodile are recorded, and only the sub-optimal temperatures prevent editors from sending cub reporters out to fry eggs on car bonnets. Even at Bristol Life we’re liable to go a bit rogue at this time of year, so instead of kicking our heels while waiting for the next big foodie thing to happen – apropos, will Boxhall ever open? – we stage a daring breakout from our usual BS boundaries and hop on the train to Bath.
The food scene here may not be spoken about in the same hushed tones as Bristol’s, but it does hold a perfectly respectable Michelin star, a couple of Bibs and several other mentions in the 2024 Guide. Among those listed is Menu ordon ones, the inspectors praising its punchy avour combinations and playful elements” and “relaxed, cheerful feel”. But to be honest, what really lures us over is an excuse for a catch-up with Chef.
ewind. e first knew ordon as the head chef at the oyal rescent otel, where his punky anffshire attitude stood out against the formal surroundings like a graff tag on the walls of the National Gallery. At the end of one tasting menu, which went on so long we practically had to beg him to stop, he and the great sommelier Jean Luc joined us at the table. He always struck us as a chef who would only be happy running his own restaurant, and after a stint at The Green House in Bournemouth he did just that, returning to Bath in 2012 to open Menu Gordon Jones – not in the city centre, but in suburban Bear Flat.
don’t expect veggie alternatives. Our meal begins with a ‘bag of bread and cup of soup’ – part starter, part amuse-bouche. Freshly-baked brioche comes with umami tastic red dulse seaweed and tru e butter for the slathering, with crisp cauli ower pakoras, a little pot of cauli mousse and a jug of erusalem artichoke syrup. here’s loads going on, and it’s only the first course. unk your pakoras in the soup”, suggests Chef, who also serves at table, “though as long as you pay your bill at the end, I don’t care what the hell you do”. ndian and sian in uences are peppered throughout, and a second course of Cornish sea bass tart comes with a piquant Szechuan carrot salad, sweetand-sour popcorn and smoked caviar. The menu turns out to be heavily seafood-focused that night, and course three is a memorable dish of poached octopus with Isle of Wight tomatoes and home-made (everything’s homemade confit sausage in hollandaise altogether, creamy, sweet, savoury and crunchy, with cool cucumber mouli and a tangle of dried prawns. juicy, fresh and aky fillet of ornish gunard has a subtle pepperiness due to its watercress poaching; it comes with summery asparagus and peas, in a foamy ‘sauce’ (his parenthesis).
DINING DETAILS
Menu Gordon Jones, 2 Wellsway, Bath; 01225 480871; menugordonjones.co.uk
Opening hours Lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday; booking essential
Prices Tasting menu, £102 pp; with wine flight, £187
“A fashionable restaurant in the unfashionable backwaters of Bath”, reads the MGJ Instagram page. If the locals bristled at this description of their ’hood it didn’t prevent them from embracing the jewel that had landed in its unfashionable midst. We’d visited too, of course, and loved it. While Gordon’s cooking is always creative and quirky it’s grounded by a pragmatic Scottish upbringing in which money was always tight, everyone grew their own veg, and cooked meals from scratch. Long before it became fashionable, an emphasis on seasonal produce, learned from his mother, shaped his attitude to food.
Drinks Be surprised
Veggie alternatives? No
Service Friendly, professional, entertaining
Atmsophere Busy and buzzy
We’d also been guests at Bristol’s daftest food event of 2017. At Dine in the Sky, the kitchen crew served us a four-course meal at a table hoisted 100ft above Millennium Square; how the people below weren’t speared by a falling fork or brained by an in uencer’s phone is a miracle. ordon was one of the chefs taking part, and even under those ridiculous conditions he served us some of the most memorable dishes we’d had that year.
Want to see what success looks like? Peep through the windows of MGJ on a Friday night. When we arrive, the room is packed. We note and admire the recent changes; Gordon’s especially proud of his new bespoke stained-glass door, in which he’s depicted among loaves, fishes, and a satanic goat.
In place of an à-la-carte there’s a surprise tasting menu; certain food allergies can be accommodated, if you consult the kitchen in advance, but
Then it’s on to the only meat course, to which the name ‘lamb taco’ doesn’t even begin to do justice. It’s a Ryland sheep, says Gordon. “A rare-breed, nice white tight curly fur, tastes much better dead.” The shoulder is cooked to a state of melting tenderness in spiced yoghurt, tandoori-style; there’s baba ganoush, and golden raisins. “Maybe with this one you’re on the back of a camel, somewhere in the... bloody... Bristol.”
There’s a nutty Basque Ossau Iraty cheese served with half a fig. it back, feet up on the table, down in one. It’s like a punch in the face, but from cheese. Cheese f**ks me up, but this is the one I always eat.”
he first of our two pudding courses is roast apricot topped with marigold sorbet under a little parmier hat ry the sorbet first, it’s interesting; do whatever you want with the rest”. Finally, a golden raisin rice pudding, pineapple curd, cardamom parfait, cashew nut brittle, and –pointing at a filigree circular rim resembling something from the ook of Kells – “whatever the hell that is on top”.
he patter, of course, is part of the act. go by the bullshit ba es brains’ scenario, because it adds to the experience and no-one knows what’s going on , he says, but don’t be fooled ordon ones knows exactly what’s going on. very dish piles in a bunch of contrasting ingredients, in uences and avours by rights it should be a culinary train crash, a magpie’s nest of a menu, except that everything here is combined with preternatural skill and air, each mouthful as harmonious as it is complex and intriguing.
f he’s done his job, says ordon, ou’ll leave with the sweat dripping off your brow, wondering what the hell just happened . ou’ll definitely leave with a smile well fed, intrigued, impressed, and thoroughly entertained. n the mood for dinner and a show? At MGJ, you’re guaranteed both in one.
FOOD & DRINK
A TASTE OF BRISTOL’S FOOD SCENE
THE CREAMERY
Fancy a foodie away day with a difference he ewt in omerset may have the very thing.
heir new dairy and restaurant he reamery has just opened within astle ary’s restored dwardian railway station buildings, with a menu featuring soft cheese and yoghurt made using traditional methods from milk from he ewt’s own herd of water buffalo. he place is steeped in history. he original ilk actory was built by brothers rideaux in local farmers would deliver churns of milk to be made into cheese at the factory, to be sold at the newly accessible ondon markets via the railway line.
oor to ceiling glass wall gives diners a front row seat into the cheesemaking process, with curved windows inspired by the original architecture. istoric imperfections have been celebrated, with careful attention to detail combining with he ewt’s trademark air a chandelier of milk bottles hangs above the open kitchen, for example, and a water station made from wooden pails is suspended from a traditional pulley system.
he glass entrance frames a historic central chimney which has been reconstructed brick by brick – a key feature throughout the building. herever you stand, whether on the glass walkway, in the shop or restaurant, a view into the cheesemaking process is front and centre, while a fully accessible modern take on a birdcage lift serves every oor.
THE ART OF CHEESEMAKING
t fell into disrepair when the business was sold, but has now been restored with a traditional engineered and detailed brick extension to match the factory. he ewt has reimagined he reamery with opulent post dwardian railway travel in mind while celebrating its rich legacy as a dairy. he cheesemaking process at its heart harks back to a belle po ue of industrial invention, intellectual and artistic creativity and global wanderlust a time when travelling the world was a thrilling new possibility. his idea is referenced by the olden ge of ravel’ theme, which combines style with more modern touches.
eading up cheese production is he ewt’s master cheesemaker, argaretha an am, who learned the art from her grandmother as a child. long with an assistant and apprentice, argaretha is looking forward to showcasing her passion for artisanal cheesemaking. ignature products will include yoghurt, hang op (a curd cheese similar to labneh , a halloumi style cheese, feta style cheese and mo arella, served in the restaurant and sold in the shop.
ithin the onsite dairy, cheesemaking workshops will take place throughout the year so visitors can witness the journey from buffalo milk to finished cheese, gaining expert insight into the art of stretching, developing and shaping mo arella. www.thenewtinsomerset.com/TheCreamery
t’s just opened its first bricks and mortar site on loucester oad, but you may remember caf and deli LONELY MOUTH from pop ups at , the olunteer avern in t ude’s and he lough in aston. n the former urra premises, ristol’s first listening caf ’ specialises in apanese and orean soul food – small plates such as karaage, tofu, gimmari, donburi rice bowls and ramen dishes.
’ve always wanted a venue of my own where can showcase the things love, introduce people to new food and experiences and showcase the talents of my beautiful friends using their art, pottery, music, says owner livia axwell ates. hink apanese caf deli, records, coffees, matcha and more – the more’ including decks where customers can play their own vinyl. he name is a translation of the apanese concept of kuchisabishii’ hen you’re not hungry, but you eat because your mouth is lonely’. ard relate.
@lonelymouthuk
t’s all change at the former ew oon apas site heck out FISH TALES from uly, where chef promises an innovative take on seafood dining, drawing on the finest and freshest produce. n case you’ve missed the ocean theme of the menu, vibrant new murals by artists alcolm olding adorn the walls. fishtalesrestaurant ar
nce again, an and ary stle’s edlands bistro WILSONS is the only ristol restaurant listed in the ational estaurant wards op . t the ceremony on une, ilsons was listed as number – the second year in a row the small ichelin reen tar restaurant has been included. ilsons ristol co u
BOSCO lifton’s back fter many years of closure –though its second branch has been thriving on hiteladies oad – the egent treet pi eria has opened in a timely way for summer, with a newly refurbed interior and – the fun bit – an outside bar at which you can perch on tall pavement chairs and pretend you’re at a counter in the ed.
oscopi eria co u
BRISTOL SEAFOOD WEEK (15 -21 July), a new festival designed to celebrate sustainable fish and the local food scene, is brought to you this month by Josh Eggleton of The Pony in collaboration with Bristol Harbour Festival.
During the festival, restaurants at Wapping Wharf, including Salt & Malt, Root, Box-E and Olive Shed, will form the heart of the hub, while well-known places across the city – those from the Bianchis group and Nadu, among others – will also be getting involved, either by creating a special dish on their menu, hosting seafood nights and cooking classes or curating a week-long seafood inspired menu.
“Bristol Seafood Week is all about highlighting the brilliant chefs and restaurants we have in the city, and inviting us to try new types of fish, and reassess our supply chains,” says Josh. “As a city based on the harbour with access to the incredible produce of the South West, we are perfectly placed to showcase the importance of protecting and preserving the ocean, sourcing more fish from local waters.”
Follow its progress at @bristolseafoodweek
Wilsons, endlessly winning hearts, minds and awards
ONE SWALLOW DOESN’T MAKE A SUMMER, BUT SEVERAL CAN –ESPECIALLY WHEN SERVED WITH ICE AND A TWIST
*And that’s the only Taylor Swift nod you’ll get from us
We can’t think of a single summer occasion which isn't 100% improved by something cold and delicious in a glass.
Most of us already have our own go-to libation – you’d certainly have your work cut out persuading us to order anything other than a frozen margarita – but if you fancy a change, why not give one, a few or all of these a whirl?
If you don't happen to have the exact ingredients, just get creative and taste as you go along; it doesn't need to be an exact science. Alternatively, call into the bars and let the experts do all the hard work – cocktail bar crawl, anyone?
SPIRITED
196 North Street
www.spiritedbristol.com
Kelpie
This cool little number comes from bar manager Francesca Marino, whose current menu is inspired by spirits from folklore around the world; the Kelpie, if you didn’t know, is a British shape-shifting water spirit. As well as a bar, Spirited is also a shop and will be able to supply all the liquor you need, as well as many of those featured in our other recipes.
40ml Psychopomp Woden gin
40ml pink grapefruit shrub
20ml ginger syrup
20ml lemon juice
Shake all ingredients and finestrain into an ice-filled glass. Top with Prosecco, or soda if you’re feeling less boozy, and garnish with a pink grapefruit slice.
GAMBAS
Unit 12, Cargo 2 www.gambasbristol.co.uk
Miel Picante
The name means ‘spicy honey’ in Spanish, says mixologist Ander Mendive. Add as much hot sauce and paprika as you can take!
Put the tequila, manzanilla, hot sauce, honey syrup, freshly squeezed lime juice and pinch of smoked spicy paprika into a shaker. Add some ice and shake for a few seconds. Pour into a high ball glass full of ice, and decorate with a fresh chilli pepper.
BRAVAS
7 Cotham Hill www.bravas.co.uk
Negroni Blanco
Made by Fabia Selwood-Miller. “Gin Bravas is made by the local Psychopomp micro-distillery and developed by our team. You can use any gin, or buy Gin Bravas from us at Bravas or from Psychopomp.”
35ml Gin Bravas
12.5ml Cocchi
25ml white vermouth
Build over ice and stir well. Serve in a frozen rocks glass, on ice garnished with an orange twist.
CONDESA
83 Whiteladies Road www.condesabristol.co.uk
Canteritos
Made by Georgie Russon. “We first tried this on the side of a motorway in Mexico, and have been wanting to recreate it ever since!”
35ml Reposado tequila
10ml Cointreau
25ml homemade grapefruit syrup
1 whole lime
1 whole orange Pink peppercorn sherbet
Lime the side of the glass and roll in pink peppercorn sherbet. Add all ingredients into the glass, and give it a stir. Add ice and top with soda water.
CAPER AND CURE
108A Stokes Croft www.caperandcure.co.uk
The Standard Cure
“A boozy, refreshing, livener,” says owner Giles Coram. Not a gin-lover? "Swap out for a good mezcal or tequila blanco.”
1 inch cucumber
25ml lime juice (roughly half a lime)
4-5 mint leaves
A dash of sugar syrup, 50ml Stolichnaya vodka
25ml Hendricks gin
Peel and roughly cut the cucumber and place in a cocktail shaker; add lime juice. Clap the mint leaves in your hands to release the fragrance, tear once, and add to the shaker. Muddle ingredients together and then add sugar syrup, vodka and gin (or mezcal/tequila).
Shake well over ice, sieve into a chilled coupe, and garnish with a thin slice of cucumber.
THE GRANARY
32 Welsh Back www.granarybristol.com
Hugo Spritz
This summer’s hit cocktail, mixed for your delectation by Anna del Vescovo.
Drinking in? “Pair with Granary’s firegrilled chicken with oregano, garlic and chilli marinade and blackened courgettes with crispy chilli oil, garlic and hung yoghurt,” they say.
20ml Bristol Distilling Co Gin 77
20ml elderflower syrup
120ml Prosecco
25ml soda
Handful of mint 1 lime wedge, to garnish
Fill a wine glass with ice. Pour gin and elderflower syrup directly over the ice and then add a few mint leaves and a slice of lime. Top off the glass with chilled Prosecco and soda. Briefly stir and enjoy immediately!
THE OLD MARKET ASSEMBLY
25 West Street; www.oldmarketassembly.co.uk
Tequila Rainbow
Mixologist Iggy has created this one especially for Bristol Pride; for every cocktail bought, they’ll donate £1 to Pride.
50ml tequila
15ml blue curacao
25ml orange juice
25ml grenadine
Dash of lime
Carefully build this one over ice, adding one ingredient at a time. Start with tequila, followed by the orange juice and lime. Then finish with the blue curaçao to create your perfect rainbow!
From mixologist Phelan Fryer. “Keeping in line with our Spanish/Bristol roots, we have a selection of Bristolian cocktails named Gert Lush, Cheers Drive and Alright Me Babber – all made with spirits from the Bristol Spirits Collective," says co-owner Ali.
37.5 ml Bristol Tropical gin
25ml passion fruit purée
25ml pineapple juice
12.5ml freshly squeezed lime juice
PASTURE x BRISTOL BALLOON FIESTA 2 Portwall Lane; www.pasturerestaurant.com
Fiesta Grande Spritz
If you’ve been paying any kind of attention to these pages you will know that Pasture is catering the VIP area at this year’s Balloon Fiesta, so we challenged bar manager Tomas Johanna to invent a suitably quaffable drink.
“This spiritz is very refreshing and packed with very light, fruity flavours. After a day of hot-air ballooning, there's nothing better than a glass of bubbly! Pairs perfectly with olives, fruit or some lovely cheesecake or scones.”
25ml Ramsbury Single Estate gin
25ml Rose El Bandarra vermut
20ml cucumber syrup
3 dash rose petal water
15ml strawberry and elderflower cordial
25ml soda water
75ml sparkling wine
10ml agave syrup
Ginger beer
Lime wedge or wheel Mint sprig
Add ingredients to a shaker. Shake and doublestrain into a highball glass. Add ice and top with ginger beer. Add a lime wedge or wheel and a mint sprig to garnish.
Add all ingredients apart from the soda and sparkling wine to a shaker. Shake all your ingredients with ice and strain into a glass filled with ice. Add soda water and wine. Garnish with a fresh strawberry or rose petal.
60ml local roasted espresso (Bar44 uses Extract Coffee)
Stir down in a mixing glass with ice.
THE RAVEN
30 Clare Street; www.theravenbristol.com
Carnival
Mixed by Embrek Bauson. “This drink exemplifies The Raven’s theme of combining tropical drinks with New Orleans classic cocktails,” says GM Dave. “The higher proof of Evan Williams and Rittenhouse helps to maintain the boozy presence of the drink as it contends with the juices."
35ml Evan Williams bourbon
15ml Rittenhouse rye
15ml Amaro Nonino
15ml Aperol
15ml cinnamon syrup
25ml peach purée
25ml pineapple juice
25ml fresh lemon juice
2 dash angostura
bitters
2 dash peach bitters
Add all ingredients to a shaking tin. Add cubed ice to the tin, seal tins and shake hard. Singlestrain into a decent-sized glass (The Raven uses a pineapple glass, but any tumbler should do), then add cubed ice and garnish with a pineapple leaf, half a pineapple slice, and a stick of cinnamon.
For the coffee cloud floated on top of the drink:
1 cup instant coffee powder
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup drinking chocolate (Bar44 uses El Baro delice)
Add the coffee, sugar, water and chocolate powder to a mixing bowl. Mix with a hand whisk for five to seven minutes, or until it turns into a mousse consistency. Spoon two heaped tablespoons of coffee air on top of the drink. Garnish with grated chocolate.
RICK’S BAR
The Bristol Hotel, Narrow Quay www.doylecollection.com
Talk a Little Treason
Rick’s Bar is inspired by the club in classic Hollywood movie Casablanca, where Humphrey Bogart’s Rick fields an uneasy mixed clientèle of German soldiers, émigrés and members of the French resistance – which we feel makes the name of this cocktail totally perfect. You’ll probably find yourself bursting into the Marseilleise after one sip.
40ml vida mezcal
20ml Remy Martin 1738
30m marmalade syrup
15ml lime juice
Half-dash foamer
Double-shake in a shaker with ice, then double-strain into a highball glass with an ice cube. Garnish with a dehydrated orange. Pretend you're Ingrid Bergman.
THE HIDEAWAY 63 Shirehampton Road www.thehideawaybs9.com
English Garden
“Our Steve W is an absolute gem of a cocktail maker!” says The Hideaway, proudly
50ml gin
25ml St Germain elderflower liqueur
75ml apple juice
50ml English sparkling wine
10ml lime juice
3 sprigs of mint
Cucumber ribbons
Shake all the ingredients except the cucumber, sparkling wine and one sprig of mint with ice, and strain into a tall glass lined with cucumber ribbons and filled with ice. Top off with the sparkling wine, and add your final sprig of mint.
KASK
51 North Street; www.kaskwine.co.uk
Garden Negroni
“This cocktail is similar to one we had in Venice, made from Select Aperitivo –an aperitif created in the city during the 1920s," says Charlie Taylor.
"It's less sweet and more complex than Aperol, fruitier and softer than Campari, and our GM Kev figured it would be good in a Negroni. It’s also great as a spritz – add 100ml Cava and a splash of soda water, stir and enjoy all afternoon long.”
25ml Psychopomp Woden gin
25ml Select Aperitivo
25ml Rastignac Pineau Des Charentes.
Fill a large tumbler with ice. Add gin, aperitivo and Pineau Des Charentes. Give it a quick stir and garnish with a thick wedge of orange.
NO.1 HARBOURSIDE
I Canon’s Road www.no1harbourside.co.uk
Spicy Margarita
"Perfect for the beginning, middle and the end of an evening!” says mixologist Sara. Amen to that!
50 ml tequila blanco
25ml lime juice
25ml Cointreau
3 dashes tabasco
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice, and shake.
Mix a handful of chilli flakes with a teaspoon of salt on a plate. Press the rim of a coupe glass into your salt mix.
Strain the shaken margarita into the glass – if you like, garnish with a wedge of lime.
OUT-OF-THIS-WORLD CHRISTMAS PARTY
GIANT PLANETARY CEILING INSTALLATIONS
3 ZONES, BAR, DINING AND DISCO
NEON LIGHTS
FUTURISTIC PERFORMERS
FOSTERS EVENTS CATERING LTD OFFER TWO OR THREE COURSE DINNER OPTIONS
FROM 29TH NOVEMBER TO 21ST DECEMBER
CAFÉ SOCIETY STAN CULLIMORE
Everything in the Orchard’s lovely
Ever wondered what it takes to make a Café Society Top Ten?
Ithe first place we’d gone for a stroll round to see how it was getting on these days. Turns out it’s doing really well right now. When we arrived the sun was shining, the air was filled with the sound of children playing and everywhere you looked, proud parents were pushing prams down treelined pathways. In short, it was pretty close to heaven. Park life paradise.
cornucopia of sweet baked carbs, and the staff behind the counter were smiling souls, every single one. If all of that wasn’t enough, there was also a bakery hidden away upstairs.
t’s not often that, after just one single visit from Café Society, a place slides right onto our special, superexclusive, slightly secret [Note to Stan: this page will be read by up to 70k people – Ed.]
Top Ten Best Bristol Cafés Ever list. But that is exactly what happened when we visited this issue’s coffee shop of choice, he rchard offee o.
Run by Joel Viljoen, the Orchard Café is found on Clouds Hill Road, heading out of town, not too far from St George’s Park. In fact, the park is what took us there in
“We found ourselves in a world of wonderment and joy, where everything was exactly as we hoped it would be”
The only thing that could possibly make the world an even better place, we decided, was if we could find ourselves a nice cup of coffee. hich is when the internet came to our rescue. We did a bit of searching, and with a few finger taps found something which looked tantalisingly tasty.
So, we left the park, took a one-minute wander along the road, and found ourselves standing outside a converted chapel with some rather cheery signs hanging up. Going inside presented us with one of those rare moments which make life so good. You know the sort, I’m sure. Those magic moments when the clouds part, the skies clear and the only sound to be heard is the sound of your heart singing fit to burst. n short, we found ourselves in a world of wonderment and joy, where everything was exactly as we hoped it would be.
The décor was delicious, the counter was filled with a
So we took a table, gave Rufus the dog a drink and made short work of both savoury and sweet snacks. ery nice, too. offees came, and my café companion, who had ordered a rather complicated spin on a at white, decided that, with hindsight, a cortado was called for.
Long story short, when I went to order one, the smiling soul behind the counter gave it to us on the house. efinitely going above and beyond in my book. Customer service made in heaven, guaranteeing that we’d return, sharpish.
All of which is why this place slid into our Top Ten with such speed. The ambience is relaxed and enticing, the menu is full to bursting with hipster treats, the staff are superb and it’s right next door to a fantastic park. In truth, I’m a tiny bit in love with the place. Expect you will be too, if you pop along. n
theorchar co eeco
Former The Housemartins guitarist Stan is now a journalist and travel writer; @stancullimore on instagram Google up Stan’s daily substack blog: Diary of an Urban Grandad
BLONDIE COTTON T-SHIRT, £45
One way, or another, we’re gonna getcha, getcha, getcha our hands on this graphic tee with its metallic touches
From Mint Velvet, 44 Regent Street; www.mintvelvet.co.uk
WHITE DIAMANTE BALLET PUMPS, £109
Bang-on-trend Mary Janes with a pointed toe and all-over diamanté detail
From Mint Velvet, 44 Regent Street; www.mintvelvet.co.uk
WHITE HEAT
Fashion magazines say that white is currently hot. We say, when was it ever not?
FLORAL LACE MINI-DRESS COVER-UP, £89
The prettiest, throw-it-on, beach-to-bar holiday cover-up – or even a stay-at-home summer dressing gown, we don’t care if you don't From Mint Velvet, 44 Regent Street; www.mintvelvet.co.uk
BALENCIAGA CRUSH QUILTED LEATHER WALLET, £1,120
(FROM £1,600)
Quilted and crinkled, and more of a small bag than a wallet; in the sale, if that helps to clinch the deal
From Harvey Nichols, 27 Philadelphia Street www.harveynichols.com
VERONICA BEARD BELL SHIRT DRESS, £385
Sleeveless, preppy and polished for the summer, made from stretch-cotton poplin, this fresh white frock is worked with attering ruching across the skirt and has a playfully ared hem
TULSA LEATHER WESTERN BOOTS, £114 (FROM £190)
VEJA V-10 LEATHER TRAINERS, £130
“The V-10 model made out of ecological and sustainable materials stands for 10 ans d’amour,” they say, Frenchily, though as it happens these kicks are made in Brazil From Grace & Mabel, 32 The Mall www.graceandmabel.co.uk
From Harvey Nichols, 27 Philadelphia Street; www.harveynichols.com
Whether you’re still crushing on Daisy Jones, channelling Beyoncé or just want to look boujiee at a festival (ideally not a muddy one), white cowboy boots are summer on a stick From Fox + Feather, 41 Gloucester Road; www.foxandfeather.co.uk
JACQUEMUS LA CHEMISE
BAHIA SHIRT, £405
Embrace this alluring French-chic take on a classic, with its wide collar and a plunging neckline which drapes into a pleated knot effect waist
MUNTHE MINT SHIRT, £199
want to do white, but need pattern – how about this organic cotton blend shirt with its oversi e pocket and charming art print
From Grace & Mabel, 32 The Mall www.graceandmabel.co.uk
From Harvey Nichols, 27 Philadelphia Street; www.harveynichols.com
leather
in the London studio; to add edge to head-to-toe neutrals, or pair with classic denim and a simple tee
From Harvey Nichols, 27 Philadelphia Street www.harveynichols.com
THE WIND SUNGLASSES, £135
Retro, chic and oversized; guaranteed to go with every outfit and all face shapes
From Jimmy Fairly, 90 Park Street www.jimmyfairly.co.uk
INDI & COLD SKIRT, £150
An easy way to do the balletcore trend; just team with a simple sleeveless tee or bodysuit, and add ballet ats. n cool linen, elasticated for comfort
From Maze Clothing, 26-28 The Mall; www.mazeclothing.co.uk
The crochet top detail is so pretty, while the loose ared bottom skims atteringly
www.mintvelvet.co.uk
White
beret handcrafted
From Mint Velvet, 44 Regent Street
WHERE THE WOOD IS LOVELY, DARK AND DEEP
A change of pace for this issue’s interiors, as we sit down for a talk with Alex Ratcliffe of Konk Furniture, Bristol-based maker of beautiful pieces that are the very antithesis of throwaway culture
By Kirsty Lake
This Yuki desk in American black walnut is built around a simple, smooth curve, making it simultaneously both classic and modern – timeless, in other words. The desk itself is from £2,195, and the drawers below, standing on three little round legs, are from £1,905. Of course, the drawers would also make the perfect bedside table…
INTERIORS
INTO THE WOODS
Favourite items from the Konk katalogue…
1. Yume day bed in oak, £1,765
The name means ‘dream’ in Japanese, and the gentle curves and minimalist design are sure to bring on the calm; it’s seen here, of course, without the dedicated cylindrical foam bolster cushion and foam mattress.
2. Søm table in oak, from £3,929 With hand-cut splines to create a striking tabletop and an exposed sliding dovetail joint, the glorious Waney Edge oak of the top is paired with contrasting dark legs in either American black walnut or what Alex calls ‘oak with an intense black stain’.
When buying furniture you want it to be beautiful, yes, and sturdy. You want it to be pleasing to use, and – ideally – impressive too, something to get guests cooing. And there are other factors to consider, not least how sustainable it is. When you see a really exotic piece of wood, where did it come from? Can you be sure? We’re destroying the rain forests, and for what?
At Konk, a multidisciplinary design studio and workshop that won a Bristol Life award for Homes and Interiors three years back, they make bespoke pieces for both homes and offices, and all to four strict rules. First up, they have to last a lifetime; these guys are no fans of the throwaway. Two, everything’s handmade to order, so there’s no wasted wood or excess stock. Three, they only use timber from approved, sustainable forests. And last but not least, they’re desperate to give back more than they take. To that end, and in partnership with charity One Tree Planted, the guys plant a tree for each item sold.
It’s all the brainchild of architecture graduate Alex atcliffe, who one day decided that he didn’t want to be an architect after all, and instead has built up one of the South West’s leading furniture makers, employing over full time staff at a ristol workshop.
“Konk started in my mum’s garage about eight years ago,” Alex says. “Within a year we’d moved workshops three times, and have continued to grow year on year ever since. The interiors industry in ristol is actually extremely strong. ot only are there plenty of talented furniture makers around, but potters, weavers, interior designers and a whole host of skilled craftsmen. t’s important to support ristol’s craft industry, I always say – get away from the large brands and shop local.”
Konk doesn’t just make freestanding pieces, but can provide bespoke fitted furniture, which they’ll install themselves. This could be a shelving system, a kitchen, office workstations, or anything else you can think of there are all sorts of inspirational examples on the website. And though there are standard designs they make again and again, they’re happy to give virtually anything a go, working from as little as a customer sketch and description.
“I think good work comes from consuming as many different sources of design and culture as you can, Alex says. “Art galleries, books, music, Instagram, films and television are all filled in some way with inspiration, whether consciously noticed at the time or not. o be honest, find it hard to ever directly link a new design to one single in uence. ut what do think we do well is combine quality with simplicity.
e’re hopefully offering craft and bespoke furniture making at a reasonably affordable price point, which is an important USP. Coming from a background in architecture has, I think, helped ground me in terms of making the most of the materials available, while keeping the structures fairly simple.”
nd you can see this in the pieces, for sure. othing is cheap here, exactly, but you can buy their smaller desks and tables for under a grand.
ut how, wondered, do they ensure that each piece still feels luxurious and special, while maintaining such simplicity of form? Turns out, it’s all to do with the (happily non exotic materials.
“The key is starting with quality timber,” Alex says. “We pretty much exclusively use oak and black merican walnut. hen finished to a really high standard by a skilled team, the material itself is elevated above cheaper alternatives. What really sets us apart is that we can customise any of our products to suit the room it’s going into. Whether that’s just a simple change of size or colour, or designing something completely bespoke, it’s our ability to tailor furniture to the clients’ needs that gives us a real edge over off the shelf’ furniture.
It sounds exciting, but also fraught with potential confusion. How, as a layperson, do you go about designing a decent piece of furniture?
“Sometimes a client might have a very clear vision, and we’re simply there to work out the joints and details, lex says. ut on other occasions, they’ll put their trust in us to come up with something, which is exciting – but also involves narrowing down near infinite possibilities.
Kirsty Lake is creative director at The Curator’s House 01225 696996 www.thecuratorshouse.co.uk
CAUGHT MY EYE
Kirsty’s interiors edit for July
1. Skipper pendant by Tom Raffield, in ash, £295; tomraffield.com
2. Finn Juhl Japan Sofa 2 by Holloways of Ludlow, £3,675; hollowaysofludlow.com
3. Kayia acacia wood mirror by Nkuku, £325; nkuku.com
4. Acacia Mezzaluna set by Pro Cook, £19.99 (was £29); procook.co.uk
Approver: Quilter Financial Planning Solutions Limited. June 2024.
NETWORK
SUCCESSION
FEATS OF CLAY
Aardman Animations is one of Bristol’s greatest success stories. Founded in a spirit of fairness, creativity and independence, it moved to an employee-ownership model in 2018 in order to protect its legacy. In a special Network Lunch with Aardman’s MD Sean Clarke, we learned exactly why that decision was made
Main photo by @joncraig_photos
EVERYONE’S HEARD OF AARDMAN We’ve all seen its award winning films and shows, telling ourselves we’re just watching them with the kids’. e also know about its association with the rand ppeal charity, with whom ardman has raised over m for ristol’s hildren’s ospital.
ts origin story is legendary. ardman was created by eter ord and avid proxton, who first began bringing clay characters to life when they were schoolfriends. n , still teenagers, they published their first sketch featuring a character named orph the sketch was called Aardman, and the rest is history. uch later, they were joined by genius animator ick ark, who’s created so many of ardman’s memorable films.
s the studio approached its year anniversary in , the uestion arose of how best to ensure
LEFT: Nick Park with Space Oddi-tea by Carys Ink: the Gromit Unleashed trails have made millions for the Grand Appeal, with a new trail coming in 2025; MIDDLE: A recent collaboration with another local legend: the ad for Thatchers; BOTTOM: Aardman kindly made us a special Morph to celebrate our 20th anniversary
Then, around the time that Pete and Dave were taking “a really inspirational model of futureproofing the independence of the studio by selling to employees,” ean became . o was moving from sales and marketing of art and licensing to effectively running the whole show a big change for him
“I think there was a little bit of impostor syndrome, he says. ave was the cameraman and ete the creative director essentially, they were filmmakers. was known as the T-shirts and marketing guy so it was uite a leap. thought, the creatives in the business will probably worry.
its legacy after avid and eter stepped back. n ovember that year, they decided to transition the company into employee ownership. Aardman was – in simple terms –sold to ardman itself.
ete and ave sold of their shares to a trust set up specially to hold those shares for the benefit of the Aardman employees – or partners, as they are now called.
he rust is managed by ardman’s managing director and long term employee Sean Clarke – our speaker at the etwork lunch in ay.
ean tells us that he came to Aardman after a stint with another fairly well known animation studio.
n around the mid ’ s saw a job ad to work for the Walt Disney ompany, he says. t was uite a new role, in which you approached different companies and negotiated for them to use your characters in return for achieving a royalty.
hen was approached by Aardman to help to set up their own rights division. his grew into a team of 30, handling rights from licencing to content distribution to live events and theme parks.
“AARDMAN WAS – IN SIMPLE TERMS –SOLD TO AARDMAN ITSELF”
“First and foremost it was about listening and trying to build an empathy with people in production, to understand what they did and how they functioned. did a lot of drop-ins, where teams of 20 people could come and talk about whatever they wanted.
“And then there was a lot of action. restructured the studio. think my marketing background helped me communicate effectively why the media landscape was changing and how we needed to change with it. ecause we’re employee owned, there’s a very open, transparent communication.
ean acknowledges that the alternative to the employee buyout would have made the owners a lot wealthier – “but it would also have killed that uni ue culture . ny new owners would have sliced and diced the studio and moved us to a country where it’s a lot cheaper to do what we do” – in other words, goodbye, as erry ane.
o who is an ardman person’ ho makes a great fit think –would hope – that most people leave their egos at the door if they want to work at the studio. hat is also key is a can do spirit the entertainment industry is very volatile, so you need to be able to cope with all the stresses and strains. e’ve done a lot of work around what our vision is, what our purpose is. n any company there’s a balance to be struck between the creative freedom, the opportunity, the licence to think freely with commercial values.
So how do they square that circle, so that creativity isn’t subordinated to commercial demands?
“I think it’s down to really communicating to everyone that they have to work in harmony. We have to do things in a way that’s profitable to enable people to have a job. I think we’ve always striven not let the tail wag the dog. We don’t follow trends.
ooking back to when we first pitched Wallace & Gromit – it was uni ue, it was the first time anyone had done a half-hour format in our industry. You can imagine how the pitch went down: its set in postwar 1950s, the dog doesn’t speak…
“Another case was Shaun the Sheep. We were told we wouldn’t be able to make it work, because the characters need to speak. We proved them wrong; 200 episodes later, it’s 30% of our business, with theme parks in Japan, China. It was our highest rated film, our biggest success, and we’ve now done a second one.
“So I think if you have that real belief in what you do, and
“WE’VE ALWAYS STRIVEN NOT LET THE TAIL WAG THE DOG. WE DON’T FOLLOW TRENDS”
most importantly connect to the audience, then all the commercial profit, the merchandise etc, will follow. Certainly for us, anyway, not being too contrived is essential to the integrity of the company, and that’s what the founders wanted to futureproof, so everyone can still believe in it.”
The philosophy extends to the brands with whom Aardman decides to work. “It’s something on which you’re always trying to walk the line, especially in an employeeowned company.
“If you take countries like Saudi Arabia – they’re investing billions into film and . ou have to square doing business there in terms of human rights and everything else; it’s a constant evaluation. But I think we’re able to achieve it, in that we’re not answerable to any outside suits who have invested purely for money. We’re answerable to the people who work there; the rule of thumb I always follow is, can I stand up in front of the studio and tell them why we’ve done it?
“We used to make commercials for oil companies, but that stopped a number of years ago. If you walk away from your values it affects how you pitch and work with the green industry. We do a lot of work through Shaun. encouraging kids to eat vegetables, etc; you have to be authentic if you want to do these kind of partnerships.”
LEFT: They were told a non-speaking lead character would never work: Shaun the Sheep BELOW: Sean the MD
and you’d lose that real pioneering creative spirit we have. So that was the choice they ended up making.”
When it came to the employee buyout, says Sean, “Dave was leading the charge on building an effective succession plan for the business. He did a lot of research, and Pete was very comfortable with what he was suggesting. It really was about how the studio was approaching 50 years; how do you protect all you’ve achieved; how do you protect that independence, that creative integrity?
“They knew they could sell the studio, but knew what would happen if they did. The brands would be made in a different techni ue in a different country
AARDMAN AND BRISTOL
Today, Aardman has about 500 people on the payroll, about 60% of them being freelance, with 75% of the shares held in trust. Sean reports to a group of trustees who oversee that trust.
“The trustees are not involved in the day-to-day running of the business; they have more of a governance kind of role.
“When the business was sold, Dave and Pete signed what we call the guiding principles of how the studio should be run, the values of the studio, and that’s the light that Aardman is held up against – the conscience of the business is a structure for the company.”
For more: www.aardman.com
Co-founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton first moved to Bristol in 1976 for their first professional production and never left. The business HQ is at Gas Ferry Road with studios at Aztec West.,
Aardman is now so deeply rooted in the city that it has become part of the studio’s DNA. Pete and Dave always embraced the notion of being supportive to the city, and one of Aardman’s greatest achievements is their involvement in Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal, the official Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity, which has raised in excess of £70 million since 1995. The charity has organised countless fundraising initiatives including hugely successful charity art trails.
“We live and breathe the values which underpin our creative processes and culture – integrity, excellence, humour, independence, collaboration and openness,” they say. “We are committed to providing a workplace where people and ideas can truly thrive, and strive to have a positive impact on our local community.”
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REWARDING INNOVATION
The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation CIHT (SW) annual awards were held last month at Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel. The ceremony celebrated innovative and pioneering transportation projects, and the chosen charity was Coexist Community Kitchen based in Easton. Photos: @JonCraig_Photos
Joelle Locko, Lucy Pullin, Carla Greaves and Jackie Genova
Mel Williams, Caroline Spurr and Luke Farley
Emma Tucker, Kerry Jones, Jon Fellingham and Craig Gowan
Rabul Patal, David Clegg, Bailey Hooper, Graham Smith, Stephen Webb, Emma Browne and Joseph Rose
Tom Metcalfe, Bethany Taylor, Richard Sweet and Laurence Oakes-Ash
Sean Boon, Dominika Mackiewicz, Gary Turner and John Skentelbery
Harry Norman, Yara Al-Hamdan, Dunstan Westbury, Jogesh Patel, Daniel Giles and Pete Salvin
James Meredith, Nik Bowyer, Hannah Clark, Becky Millington and Jamie Hulland
Andrew Rowett, Jacob Cook, James Padgham, Alex Russel and Chris Salmon
Philip Heseltine, Rachel Phillips, Dan Brazier (magician), Karen McShane (president) and Karl Wright
NEW AT THE TOP
After 11 years as director of RWA, Alison Bevan stepped down from the post in June –and as the gallery enters a new chapter it has introduced the two new individuals who will shape its future
Ren and George
Helen Renwick, known as Ren, comes in as new director, officially assuming her role in mid-July. Having an impressive background as a charity CEO, and with extensive experience in both the subsidised and commercial sectors of the arts, Ren’s leadership style is characterised by approachability and boundless energy; she is driven by the conviction that art has the capacity to empower, connect and
COMING UP…
Bristol Property Awards Launch – 18 July bristolpropertyawards.co.uk
Bristol Life Network Lunch with YTL Developments – 17 September mediaclash.co.uk/bristollifenetworklunch
EntreConf Awards – 26 September entreconf.com/awards-home
SUPPORTING ROLE
Bristol Old Vic has launched a new corporate partnership programme, with local law firm named as its first three year member.
The corporate partnership programme offers companies a bespoke, mutually beneficial relationship with the theatre. enefits include unique training and skills development for corporate teams, and preferential access to space and theatre experiences, in exchange for investment in and alignment with Bristol Old Vic’s extensive community and engagement projects.
VWV’s investment will provide support for Bristol Old Vic’s creative programme of activity for young people, enabling bursaries for them to access initiatives such as YoungSixSix, Young Company:City and Made in Bristol.
“Our new corporate partnership programme is rooted in building relationships with commercial organisations which share values similar to Bristol
enrich individuals and communities, which aligns perfectly with the RWA’s mission.
Ren currently serves as a board member of the Bristol Museums Development Trust. er affinity for the city’s cultural landscape, coupled with her longstanding admiration for the RWA, positions her as the ideal person to help continue its growth and success. “I couldn’t be happier to hand over to someone so brilliant, said Alison Bevan.
George Ferguson CBE is the new chair of trustees; with a distinguished career in urban design, architecture, and public service, George brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the arts to this pivotal role, in which he will provide strategic leadership and guidance to the RWA, ensuring its continued growth and relevance in the contemporary art world. www.rwa.org.uk
Bristol Property Awards nominations close – 10 October bristolpropertyawards.co.uk
EntreConf GO, Bristol – 13 November entreconf.com/entreconf-go
Bristol Property Awards – 29 November bristolpropertyawards.co.uk
Old Vic’s, and a steadfast belief that creativity can, and does, change people’s lives for the better,” said Bristol Old Vic executive director Charlotte Geeves.
t’s fitting that is our first partner having worked with us for many years, they understand the real impact our creative engagement work delivers. This three-year agreement means they are supporting our ability to grow the range of opportunities available to young people in Bristol.
“The current challenges for the cultural sector are well-documented. Though we can prove how investment in the work we do contributes exponentially more to the UK economy, we understand that the public purse is under pressure.
The corporate partnership programme is an example of how we’re working differently to try to plug the income gap we have, due to the real-terms funding cuts we have received.”
www.bristololdvic.org.uk; www.vwv.co.uk
NEW KID ON THE BLOK
reimagined’ state of the art office hub has launched following a £12m refurbishment.
Set in Bristol’s city centre, BLOK was already 60% let prior to practical completion and has a series of new tenants, including Coreus Projects, 5 Values Consulting, RWK Goodman and athaniel ichfield artners, attracted by the , s ft of modern workspace and further 11,000 sq ft of welfare and amenity spaces which include a communal lounge, meeting rooms, presentation spaces, independent coffee shop, courtyard garden, roof terrace and private gym.
Having purchased the 1980s-built property in 2021, real estate transformation specialists Boultbee Brooks decided against demolition and employed Mutiny Architecture & Design to come up with plans which could breathe new life into the existing structure. The process of ‘reimagining instead of rebuilding’ prioritises sustainability and occupier experience re ected in the extensive building certification including high BREEAM, EPC, Fitwell, Activescore, and Wiredscore ratings. www.studio.space/bristol-blok
AWARDS
ENTRECONF AWARDS: FINALISTS REVEALED
ADVISOR
Bright Evolve
Correct Careers
Coaching
David Kelly, Storm Consultancy
Ebonstone
iO Academy
Omnigenix
PANDEK Group
ECOMMERCE
Huboo
LUX Rewards
MONUSKIN
EMPLOYER
SPONSORED BY
UNIVERSITY OF BATH SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT
AB Brand and Marketing Agency
Adopstar
Beautynet
Blake Morgan
Dialect
Digital Wonderlab Hoop Recruitment
Mayden
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
Amanda Spicer, Your Eco
Dr Asel Sartbaeva, Ensilitech
Chelsea PinchesBurrowes, WCS Agency
Danny Moar, Theatre Royal Bath
David Kelly, Storm Consultancy
James Courtney, LUX Rewards
Jo Polson, Vindico
Laurent van Bekkum, MONUSKIN
Nathan Baranowski, Digital Wonderlab
Nick Spicer, Your Eco
Nick Sturge, Omnigenix
Paul Benson, Adopstar
Paul Dodd, Huboo Yang Ding, New Silk Route Digital
Zoe Stephenson, The Social Shepherd
FEMALE
ENTREPRENEUR SPONSORED BY THE VISA OFFICE
Amanda Spicer, Your Eco
Dr Asel Sartbaeva, Ensilitech
Chelsea PinchesBurrowes, WCS Agency
Electra Savvidou, Action PAs
Erin-Jane Roodt, Epowar
Mercedes Osborne, Pointers Financial
Philippa Roberts, Binit
Sian Howarth, Norah Rose Staging
Zoe Stephenson, The Social Shepherd
FINTECH
Englebert
Good With LUX Rewards
HEALTH & WELLBEING
Brav Endurance
dubbii
Energised Performance
Mayden MONUSKIN
HOSPITALITY
Apex City of Bath
Catering Services
International
Clean Break Group
Eat PR & Marketing
First Table
Ludo Sports Bar & Kitchen
LEGAL ADVISOR
Blake Morgan
Thrings
MEDIA
Adopstar
Cameron Mills Group
Design for Digital
Fourth Floor
Mostly Media
The Salocin Group
Second Mountain Comms
SEIKK
The Social Shepherd
That Media Thing
Wake The Tiger
Wales Interactive
WCS Agency
PRE-REVENUE
EnsiliTech
Epowar
Fueld AI
Jitty
Remedy
Sora Aviation
WAVESIX
PROPERTY
Aspire To Move
Bristol O ce Co. & Bath O ce Co.
Clean Break Group
DeskLodge
Mode Consult Sustainable Construction Services
SCALE-UP SPONSORED BY LINK STONE ADVISORY
Adopstar
Beautynet
Fourth Floor
Graphic Mill
Hoop Recruitment
Truespeed
Wake The Tiger
SCIENCE
City Science
EnsiliTech
LabCycle Remedy UK-HyRES
SMALL BUSINESS ENTREPRENEUR
Aspire To Move Cavefish
Ebonstone Fueld Media
H2R Selection
Mode Consult PANDEK Group
Pointers Financial
Second Mountain Comms
Share
Sora Aviation
Studio 74
Contemporary Art
That Media Thing
SUSTAINABILITY
Apex City of Bath
City Science
Humanity Centred Designs
LabCycle
Sustainable Construction Services
UK-HyRES
TECHNOLOGY
Cavefish
Checks Direct
EnsiliTech
First Table Fueld AI Huboo
iO Academy
Marlin Communications
Mayden
Rocketmakers
Storm Consultancy
Truespeed
Vindico
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR
Cameron Mills, Cameron Mills Group
Chelsea PinchesBurrowes, WCS Agency
Electra Savvidou, Action PAs
Ellena Norman, Studio 74 Contemporary Art
Hannah Egerton, Edgie Eats
Helen Liang, LabCycle
Dr Matt Slade, Ensilitech
Olivia Coy, Remedy
Vishal Tolambia, Humanity Centred Designs
Zoe Stephenson, The Social Shepherd
TICKETS
THRINGS MEETS… AVON NEEDS TREES
THRINGS PR manager Aaron Sims meets Susan Baker, conservation and heritage coordinator at Bristol and Bath-based woodland charity AVON NEEDS TREES
Aaron Sims: What is Avon Needs Trees and how did it start?
Susan Baker: Avon Needs Trees is a charity focused on creating new permanent woodlands across the Bristol-Avon River catchment area to tackle the climate and nature crises, and help restore nature to the region for generations to come.
We were founded in 2019 by five volunteers who were concerned by how much woodland had been lost across the West of England region in recent decades.
While there was tree planting taking place, it wasn’t enough, and they felt the best way to ensure the permanence of new woodland was to own the land, and for the creation and maintenance of the sites to be supported by likeminded volunteers. Since its creation, the charity has bought a piece of land each year, looking to increase its impact each time, with its first sites in Wiltshire – Hazeland and Pudding Brook Wood – being relatively small at 34 and 14 acres in size respectively. This was then followed about 18 months ago by acquiring 113acres of land in Somerset for the site Great Avon Wood, for which the first round of planting completed earlier this year.
AS: What are you currently working on?
SB: We have just completed the purchase of land for our most ambitious project to date, Lower Chew Forest, which will be based at Wick Farm in Compton Dando, south of Bristol. Once planted, the 422-acre site will be
home to up to 100,000 new trees as well as brand-new habitats and hedgerows to really help nature and biodiversity flourish. Our aim is to have Lower Chew Forest planted over the course of the next two winters.
AS: Why is this kind of work so important?
SB: As our founders knew when they first set up the charity, the tree cover in our region is really quite low by UK standards and something needed to be done. By creating and maintaining woodland, you are creating the space for nature to recover and for species to return and thrive, not to mention the additional benefits for the likes of natural flood management and carbon capture.
Then there are the benefits for people. By bringing the community together, giving them the skills and experience around tree planting and tree maintenance, not only are you giving them the know-how but also the understanding as to why this is important which will encourage them to want to look after these sites in the long term.
It is a huge people-powered effort to create and maintain these woodlands, and seeing people become so enthused by our work is really heartening. In our last season, we have had more than a thousand people volunteer, many of whom get inspired on one of our planting days and decide to take on higher-level volunteering. We have even had people who go on to seek a job in the green economy, working for nature charities and continuing to share that passion and knowledge.
AS: How can people get involved?
SB: There are three main ways we encourage people to support us – through volunteering for our planting and maintenance days, through donations that help us plant our woodlands, and through landowners bringing forward sites for us to plant on. Each is just as important as the next, and whether you can spare some time, some change or some acres, you’ll be doing something tremendous to support our work.
AS: What’s next for Avon Needs Trees?
SB: We will continue to look for new sites for the future, but our main focus over the coming months is to progress our work at Great Avon Wood, maintaining the first batch of planted trees while preparing for the coming planting season. This is coupled with our efforts
to get everything ready at Lower Chew Farm to start the monumental challenge of planting thousands of new trees. Each woodland is an exciting new opportunity that, while being a long-term project that could take decades to fully come to fruition, will really start to show progress from a few months in, and we are excited to share that with our volunteers and supporters as we go on this journey together.
To find out more about Avon Needs Trees, and how you can get involved, visit avonneedstrees.org.uk n
Ever wished you could choose your next-doorneighbours? Doesn’t have to be a dream...
Words by Ursula Cole
Even those living in the dreamiest of dream homes can be at the mercy of the folk living next door. However, if you buy both 76A and 76B Grove Road – which is how this issue’s Showcase property is being marketed – you’re unlikely to suffer from noisy neighbours – unless, of course, they happen to be members of your own family.
Unmistakeably architect designed, with state-ofthe-art technology, landscaped gardens and tastefully minimal interiors, the pair of houses rejoice in a peaceful setting on Grove Road, north of Coombe Dingle and bordering Blaise Castle Estate, with access to around 650 acres of historic woodland and open walks.
The houses, which share a gated driveway leading to expansive off street parking, are found at the very top of the road with no passing traffic – a true haven in the heart of the city. Should you ever wish to venture out –though since we imagine Waitrose and Uber deliver, you may rarely need to – Westbury-on-Trym and Henleaze are close at hand, as are Canford Park, Coombe Dingle Sports Complex, David Lloyd Westbury and, if that’s your kind thing, a choice of golf clubs .
One of the architect’s overriding ambitions was to bring the outside in, and the only thing separating you from nature are the bi-folding glass doors in the ground oor rooms and master bedrooms. The layout allows for sociable, spacious and versatile everyday living, while being as private or inclusive as you wish.
Every conceivable tech option has been considered, with an integrated smart home automation system controlling the lights, heating (under oor, throughout each house), media and even the hot tub remotely, at any time of day or night, and –though we’re struggling to see how this might come in handy – from anywhere in the world. oth make a wonderful first impression, with double-height entrance halls that feel bright and uplifting on the gloomiest of days. Above, the spacious
first oor landings have plenty of room for reading nooks, ga ing out into the woods beyond. ach kitchen is fitted with an oversi ed island, breakfast bar and top name appliances integrated wine fridges, a recycling compactor drawer in b and insinkerators’ make life just that little bit easier gas fires add a focal point and warmth in winter while the system keeps the air fresh, fully circulated and provides a constant supply of fresh filtered air. he rooms make the ideal gathering space, connecting seamlessly to open plan dining and living areas. ll ow out into the garden with birdsong from the trees outside it’s hard to believe how close to central ristol you are. pstairs, each of the master suites overlooks woodland and the gardens, with bi folding doors opening onto uliet balconies. ach has his and her (or his and his, or her and her, obviously dressing rooms and beautifully fitted en suite bath and shower rooms. ot that the remaining bedrooms are neglected, being fitted with en suites and served by a spacious family bathroom. utside, each home has its own private space. a has a charming, enclosed back garden, designed to provide year round use with a fitted outdoor kitchen and a detached home office. he garden swings around to the south, where a private courtyard has a children’s play area and a timber clad sauna.
b has an almost en like south facing garden and spa facilities, with a beautiful iveko swimming pool with
Thinking about moving or interested in an up-to-date valuation of your home?
Start your journey by scanning the QR code for an instant valuation. Or, contact me personally on; 0117 462 5600 (Clifton office) OR 01275 627 105 (Portishead office)
inbuilt roller cover and an in-ground hot tub, complete with an outdoor hot-and-cold shower and infra-red Zoki sauna. A child-safe balustrade runs between the pool and house, there’s a covered outdoor sitting room overlooking the pool and a contemporary outdoor gas fire for year round use. hile the gardens offer slightly different amenities, as the owner of both homes you don’t need to make the tricky choice.
Both homes have four bedrooms, a cinema, gym, an integrated garage and a clatter of ‘useful’ rooms such as utility to pantries; 76A also has a study/spare room. It’s obviously ideal for extended families, or even, we guess, two sets of friends who like each other quite a lot; either way, they offer an absolutely uni ue opportunity to own what, in essence, is your own private estate; you’ll never have to complain about pesky nextdoor neighbours again.
HOUSE NUMBERS
Where Grove Road, north of Coombe Dingle
Guide price
£3.995m (for both)
Receptions Large open-plan living-dining-kitchen space
Bedrooms 4/5 in each house
What else? Numerous bath/ shower rooms, cinema, gym, utility spaces
Outside Private gardens equipped with year-round amenities
Call my agent: Rupert Oliver 0117 452 3555
www.rupertoliver.co.uk
FOR SALE – FREEHOLD
A prime and sought after residential location offering a peaceful and leafy environment within walking distance of Whiteladies Road, Bristol city centre, and Clifton’s Durdham Downs
INONEACREPLOT!
Ashley Down House, Cotham Park, Bristol
An impressive, Italianate style mansion set within a one acre plot accessed via gravelled drive and benefitting from landscaped gardens, a self-contained 2/3 bed annexe, and a range of additional outbuildings. The property totals approximately 12,700 sq ft dating back to c. 1850 and offers the potential for a fantastic home or a range of development options (subject to consents). Freehold for sale – price on application.
Cotham Park, Bristol
A substantial home featuring a kitchen and four reception rooms on the ground floor, four bedrooms and a bathroom on the first floor, and additional bedrooms and bathrooms on the second floor. The lower ground floor includes a gym, laundry room, bathroom, and various ancillary rooms. Externally, there is a large walled garden at the rear plus an attractive front garden. The property provides for a beautiful family home following light refurbishment. Freehold for sale – Price on application.
ZANNAH CHISHOLM
So Zannah – what’s it like to run away to the circus?
The CEO of Circomedia always had showbiz stars in her eyes.
“I had performed and played music all through my childhood, and irted with the idea of being an actress, so when I found out there was a performing arts degree in Leicester, I was thrilled,“ she says. “I spent three years with an amazing bunch of people, living and breathing performance, and never looked back.”
So what led her to Circomedia?
“I was working an interim CEO role there, as a freelancer. I was so impressed by the people and the circus that I applied for the permanent position; I went through two interviews, and got the job.”
Circomedia is an academy for contemporary circus and physical theatre, and a registered charity with two sites in Bristol. Our space at St Paul’s Church is our public site, which is full of classes and shows and
available for hires and weddings. It’s also home to the BTEC course for 16-18 year olds, and puts on a programme of shows by our students and professional companies.
The Kingswood site hosts our foundation, bachelors and masters degrees, and has some public classes and space for professionals to practice and create new work. You can often find our classes team leading circus workshops out in the community, too.
We’re 30 years old this year and have become a much-loved part of the circus and cultural life of Bristol and the UK. The people of Bristol are creative, liberal and maverick, and circus and green issues have been two of the industries to thrive in this environment.
The majority of our staff of 70 are part-time teachers and practising circus performers. They perform in festivals, shows and theatres – not only locally, but all around the country, and
“The people of Bristol are creative, liberal and maverick, and circus has thrived in this environment”
sometimes the rest of the world. This makes Circomedia a hub of professional learning and networking in this wonderfully creative city. Our work, our staff and our students are closely integrated with other circus companies and professionals –there’s a strong circus community in Bristol, and the city can be loud and proud about that.
We train 600 children and adults a week in circus, and have around 80 students on our formal training programmes in any academic year, playing a key role in the nurturing of future generations of circus performers and makers.
At Circomedia you can expect to see artistry, risk and strength in equal measure. The content will range from comedy to serious social commentary, and may be aimed at children or be much more for an adult audience. t different times, you might see juggling, swinging trapeze, aerial hoop, rope, silks or acrobatics. Audiences can also engage actively with the performers, making most shows a relaxed experience.
At the end of July and early August, we host a range of popular youth circus summer camps for ages four to 18, and our classes programme kicks back in again in early autumn.
Our final live show of the summer is a swinging trapeze show by our supported artists Jen & LK on 13 July. This is a great chance to see a new piece in the making, and enjoy some
incredible circus skills with a big pinch of humour.
Our theatre programme restarts in the first week of September with final productions by our current MA students – a showcase of their work as they finish their degree, and their calling card to the industry. This launches a full autumn programme of shows by our alumni, as we celebrate the talent which has emerged from Circomedia over the last 30 years.
There will be an open-doors day aimed at children who live in St Paul’s, combined with a Heritage Open Day sharing the history of St Paul’s Church. Scattered through the season are dance and circus workshops, a cabaret, and Volt – a scratch night of works in progress. The season will finish with our first commission, which is a winter show for four to 12 year olds and their families, which takes us right up to Christmas Eve.
For a special meal in Bristol I’d search out St. Paul’s caterer Big H and eat one of his Caribbean dishes, such as goat stew, rice and coleslaw.
A perfect Bristol day out might involve a mooch along Prince’s Wharf before heading up Park Street for a hunt in the vintage and independent shops and something to eat at Woodes Café. Then I’d head over to St Paul’s for a meal at Jikoni on Upper York Street, before going to see a show at Circomedia. For more www.circomedia.com
