Exeter Living - issue 197

THE PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE OF EXETER’S WATERSIDE

34 31

THE PIG AT COMBE:

197

WE GOT THE QUAY:

PUT YOUR NOSE IN THE TROUGH

070

53X

271

49 8

118

ISSUE 197 / AUGUST 2016 / EXE APPEAL

WILLOW HILSON VINTAGE

DEVON OPEN STUDIOS

PHOTO BY TONY COBLEY

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 197 / AUGUST 2016

City slickers

16

THE WEEKENDERS How to impress your guests from other cities

There are over 4,000 cities on this planet. And from Sao Paulo to Shanghai, you can bet that every single one of them is convinced it’s more beautiful, friendly, fascinating, entrepreneurial, discerning and allround desirable than the others.

And OK, it is inevitable that we all think precisely those things about Exeter – but the difference is we’re right.

Many of us have dear friends in other cities, however, and often these friends descend on us with weekend bags and expectant smiles. What do they expect when they cross the border into Devon and into our much-loved neighbourhoods? We can’t speak for all of them, but it’s fair to say some simply aren’t prepared for just how competitive Exeter and its environs are, in terms of world-class scenery, eating and drinking, shopping, sport, entertainment, business and warm, welcoming natives.

We had fun this issue rounding up all the attractions in the vicinity that are guaranteed to silence even the most high-rollin’, hard-to-please Londoner.

Enjoy it: and enjoy your amazing city.

Anna Britten, Editor Follow us on Twitter: @ExeterLiving

Bang & Olufsen of Exeter 30/31 Gandy Street | EX4 3LS 01392 424600 | exeter@bang-olufsen.co.uk

CONTENTS / ISSUE 197 / AUGUST 2016

NEWS

M EET T H E T EAM

10 Spotlight

Editor Anna Britten anna.britten@mediaclash.co.uk

Rio, climbing on the Quay Lockdown, Spitfires, Nourish Festival and more!

Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Editor’s photo Emma Solley Contributors Julian Owen, Lucy Hounsom, Chris Bentley Advertising manager Joss Phillips joss.phillips@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Paula Miller paula.miller@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Jason Coward jason.coward@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Steve Hawkins steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk

13 Lucy Hounsom

Our new columnist looks back at the best childhood summers

MAIN FEATURES 16 Guest Appearances Friends down for the weekend?

Show off your city and they’ll never want to leave

22 We Got The Quay

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Christina West christina.west@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk

The past, present and future of Exeter’s lively waterside

ARTS 29 Arts Intro Eduardo Paolozzi’s pop art at Thelma Hulbert Gallery

30 What’s On Late summer larks galore - grab your shades and get out of here!

34 Open Door Policy Four great Exeter/Exmouth artists you should look up during Devon Open Studios

FOOD & DRINK 36 Restaurant The Pig at Combe: is it a silk’s purse or a sow’s ear?

SHOPPING 41 Shopping Intro

36 44 Special Shops Nipped-in waists, film work and a new name – it’s all going on at Willow Hilson Vintage

BUSINESS 57 Business Insider The Exeter Living Awards are back! Plus: Pipity, BID, Northcott Beaton and Exeter Chiefs

Sweet, new, Scandi wallpaper to buy on Magdalen Road

PROPERT Y

42 Ed’s Choice

A fantastic family home in old Pennsylvania

We’re red all over

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Exeter Living, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

REGUL ARS 49 Seen!

Exeter Living threw a big party – and so did these other fun-lovin’ local businesses

74 Exeter Lives

Local author and English teacher Emma Cox

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag).

Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help.

Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

60 Property Showcase On the cover Railing against the machine: vintage train tickets design

by Trevor Gilham

22 44

BROWSE 3 FLOORS OF FURNITURE

WHAT’S MAKING THE NEWS IN EXETER

Jo Pavey (left) and Sara Cox: doing Exeter proud

EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT…

EXETER GOES TO RIO 2016 Inspirational local folks we’ve been cheering on at the Olympics With the Rio Olympics in full swing, there are several local faces to look out for among the 10,500 athletes and thousands of officials.

Two are especially close to our hearts here at EL. One is, you guessed it, West Hillbased long distance runner Jo Pavey, the first British track athlete to compete in a fifth Olympic Games – and just to make this stat even more impressive and poignant, Jo had told reporters back in June that her dream of doing this was “all but over”. She competes the day this issue hits the streets.

The second is Sara Cox, a Broadclyst native and former Coastal Recycling employee, who at 25 years old has achieved her goal of reffing at the highest level and was the only English rugby referee at Rio 2016, where she has just officiated over 10 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

the women’s Rugby sevens (along with golf, a “new” sport at the Olympic Games).

You won’t have seen Coxy in the opening ceremony in the Maracanã Stadium though – the rugby was the first event of the Olympics so she was resting up ahead of the biggest walk onto the pitch of her life…

Team GB also includes five University of Exeter students and alumni: sailors Nick Thompson (Exercise & Sport Sciences, 2008), Sophie Ainsworth (Exercise and Sport Sciences, 2010) and Nicola Groves (Human Biosciences, 2010); Rugby Sevens player and current student Luke Treharne; and Paralympic shooter Issy Bailey (English, 2016).

Air punches all round! teamgb.com

SPOTLIGHT

Last year’s ladies’ winner, Michaela Tracey

Local folk share their photos This issue: Stephanie Darkes of the Exploring Exeter blog (exploringexeter.co.uk) instagram.com/exploringexeter_

Our trip to @tonys_ Candy, Fore Street, Exeter for milkshake & candy

BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND

HITTING THE WALL Peas in a pod! @ wildwoodescot

Random spot today in #Exeter

Exeter Quay will play host to some of the world’s top climbers at the third annual Deep Water Solo Festival of Climbing over the August bank holiday weekend.

Thousands of spectators are expected to watch the climbing competition, which is organised by the Quay Climbing Centre and sees a temporary, seven-metre high climbing wall erected in the city’s canal basin, which climbers will attempt to navigate without the aid of ropes.

The competition begins with the junior climbers during the afternoon on Friday 26 August, and adult climbers compete during the weekend with the nail-biting final planned for Sunday 28 August.

There’ll also be a chance for daring novices to test their skills as the wall is opened up to beginners and non-

competitors throughout the Monday.

Says Paul Russell, Quay Climbing director: “This is a great event, which attracts more people every year. You don’t have to be a climber to love it – there’s a real thrill in watching people attempt to climb the wall, getting as high and far as they can before dropping into the water below.

“There’s always an amazing atmosphere and we love staging it. We are in a unique position at the Quay of being the only indoor climbing wall in the UK that is situated next to a body of water suitable for this type of outdoor climbing event – the canal basin provides the perfect water space and the large open area of the Piazza Terracina offers a great arena for spectators to view the competition up close.” quayclimbingcentre.co.uk

FESTIVALS

TOTAL LOCKDOWN

The Quay looking rather delish in the sunshine today

Cheer up, Chase & Status – Kenton’s great!

Took a gorgeous walk along the river yesterday #Exeter is magical...

If Radio One Big Weekend at Powderham Castle whetted your appetite for al fresco pop, Lockdown Festival at the same venue from 9-11 September ought to round off festival season in thumping style.

The South West’s biggest dance music festival (briefly known as Bassline Festival), will play host to Chase & Status, Tinie Tempah and Katy B, among other dance acts, alongside DJ sets from Rudimental, Sigma and Charlie Sloth, among others, across four stages.

Camping/glamping will be available on site through to Monday morning. lockdownfestival.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 11

SPOTLIGHT

AVIATION

PHOTO BY RICHARD PAVER

GET JET, GO!

“Can I borrow this for the school run?”

Spitfires will zoom over Exeter this September, when the world’s only Spitfire flying school arrives at Exeter Airport to operate passenger flights.

From 1-15 September, the public will be able to take to the skies in the Boultbee Flight Academy two-seat Spitfire SM520.

Says Devon-born Matt Jones, Spitfire pilot and MD of the Academy: “Having been to school in Exeter, it’s great to be able to bring the Spitfires down to the city this summer, especially given the airport’s history as an operational Battle of Britain base.”

Visitors may also get the once-in-a lifetime chance to fly in formation with a single-seat Spitfire RR232, built from a single rivet by Exeter-based businessman Martin Philips, and aptly named ‘City of Exeter’. boultbeeflightacademy.co.uk

SEVEN DEADLY SINS In our regular mini Q&A with visiting and local performers, Exeter singersongwriter HOLLY MORWENNA bares her wicked soul LUST: Who or what do you find yourself lusting after today?

Just my bed, I love my bed! I have been travelling around Europe this summer so it’s lovely to sleep in my own bed again.

GREED: What should you be cutting down on (non-food and drink!)

Definitely orange juice!

GLUTTONY: What one thing could you happily eat or drink until you burst?

12 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Wraps... Halloumi wraps with mayo, anything with mayo, mayo covers everything!

SLOTH: What should you be really putting your back into right now?

No more studying till uni, so maybe I should get around to tidying my bedroom.

WRATH: What/who makes you angry?

Sleeping in rooms with clocks. You know, when you sleep at someone else’s house with a clock in the room and you have to breathe in time with the clock ticking?

ENVY: Who are you jealous of?

Everyone with curly hair.

PRIDE: What’s your proudest achievement?

Probably getting to the national finals of the Open Mic UK Competition when I was 16; and supporting Sound of the Sirens this year at the Exeter Phoenix.

Holly Morwenna performs in Gandy Street at 2pm on 27 August as part of Exeter Street Arts Festival; exeterstreetartsfestival.co.uk facebook.com/hollymorwennamusic

A good day to pie hard

FESTIVALS

MUSIC AND THE FOOD OF LOVE Love your street food? Then get yourself to Bovey Tracey, where the annual Nourish Festival – a unique, community celebration of food, craft and classical music – has launched The Devon Street Food Awards to reward the very best producers of pizza, burgers, crepes and anything else you can scoff on the hoof.

You’ll be able to sample some of it at the Festival’s food fair on Bovey’s High Street on Saturday 3 September, where stalls will also be selling a huge variety of locally produced ingredients from artisan cheeses to speciality mushrooms. On the same day, browse the contemporary craft fair in the Methodist Church Hall, showcasing the very best handmade craft from across the region, with demonstrations and other events taking place at the Devon Guild of Craftsmen.

The Festival’s outstanding music programme from 1-3 September, meanwhile, will see the internationally renowned Brodsky Quartet return with Schubert’s thundering Death & The Maiden, and the West Country debut of Dutch group Calefax Reed Quintet performing a fairytale-inspired programme, including Tchaikovsky, Ravel and Bach. nourishfestival.org

Where am i?

Test your knowledge of Exeter’s hidden corners...

Provence? Verona? No, we were in the middle of Exeter when this Mediterraneanstyle Juliet balcony caught our eye. Find out exactly where on page 74. . .

OPINION

LUCY HOUNSOM

OH, THOSE SUMMER NIGHTS

JUST SUMMER DEEP NOSTALGIA?

IS IT ME OR DO TWILIGHTS AWAKEN A SENSE OF

Frogs under the bed and a garden inferno…

Lucy recalls her best childhood summers

W

hen summer finally decides to grace us with its presence, England can be truly beautiful. I’m writing this on one of the hottest days of the year.

Secretly I think it’s too hot, but would never admit it. Despite the fact that my Viking complexion will never tan, I live in hope. My favourite thing about summer, however, is balmy evenings in the garden, where you can enjoy the night without thinking about jumpers.

Is it just me or do summer twilights awaken a deep sense of nostalgia? The rustle of leaves, gentle breeze, the whistle and chirp of creatures staking their claim to the night... these sights and sounds are the same ones I heard growing up, and inevitably they bring to mind other nights, other years.

When we were children, my sister and I had a large garden to play in, full of cherry trees. To be honest, the cherries weren’t that great, being hard and rather small, but they made ideal bombs. You wouldn’t believe how something so tiny could explode so spectacularly upon impact. Cherry fights became a regular entertainment. Soon we were both covered in red juice, clothes marred with the kind of stains that sent Mum into a spiral of despair.

Other nights we were better behaved. Rather than leaving cherry prints all over the kitchen floor, we raided the dressing-up chest. I think all children should have one of these magical things. Stories lurked beneath its lid; stiff net petticoats doubled as a lion’s mane, ragged silk scarves could float our behind us like fairy wings, and there was a sole sparkly clip-on earring we always fought over.

The garden became our stage, the parents our slightly reluctant audience, as they attempted to discuss mysterious adult matters.

When you leave the patio doors open all day, you can’t complain

if you receive unwelcome visitors. The flump flump under my sister’s bed one night turned out to be a trespasser frog. Screams followed.

Mum told her she’d dreamed it; Dad laughed and, as punishment, was sent to investigate. By two in the morning, he’d managed to corner it in the bathroom. Amidst scuffles and frenzied flump flumps could be heard Dad’s curses of “Come here, you bugger.” Fear not, the frog was eventually captured and returned to the pond.

Summer evenings weren’t all about innocent amphibians, of course. One warm night I looked out of my window to see a flickering at the bottom of the garden. Yes, it was fire. No, it wasn’t under control. Somehow Mum had inadvertently created a perfect chimney in the brick fire pit and the flames were Lucy (right) and her ecstatically consuming a sister, seconds before nearby laurel. “Get the hose!” another cherry fight she screamed at me, and so breaks out I bravely ventured down the side of the house, barefoot over perilous slate-studded ground, to fetch the hose. To make it worse, it was pitch black and there were spiders.

It took some time to put that fire out and, sad to say, the unoffending laurel was never the same again.

In the interests of the surviving plants, we bought Mum a chimenea so she could practice her fire starting in a more controlled environment. It was a roundbellied, terracotta thing and its favourite food was fallen cherry twigs, which my sister and I dutifully fed it. We sat as a family around it, the moths flitting overhead, telling stories and drawing arcane symbols in charcoal on its surface. I think that this, above all, is the summer night memory I treasure the most.

Lucy Hounsom is a fantasy fiction author and bookseller from Sidmouth. Her debut novel Starborn is out now on Pan/Macmillan.

Follow her on Twitter: @silvanhistorian

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 15

“Oh my god, Exeter is amaaaazing!”

guest appearances Friends down from the big city for the weekend?

Show them your stamping ground in all its glory Wor d s by A N NA BR I T T E N 16 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

WEEKENDER

(so they know we have brain surgeons and brand consultants here, too…).

Or, for a quieter vibe, we might head to Abode’s Champagne Bar where until 31 August, £20 gets you a bottle of prosecco and a punnet of strawberries for two, and a brush with high society.

Either way, we’d eventually move on to Southernhay House because it feels like one of those private members’ clubs beloved of metropolitan movers and shakers or, for a slightly grungier, hipster vibe – and quirky cocktails to rival anything in Westbourne Grove or Hoxton – hit Oddfellows. Then we’d go home and order a delivery from Al Farid, because – look, guys! – Exeter has Deliveroo and Moroccan food, too.

FOR THE FOODIE FRIENDS

‘‘Y

NEXT TIME YOUR OUTOF-TOWN PALS ARRIVE SAYING ‘I

EXPECT IT’S PRETTY QUIET ROUND HERE’, JUST SMILE

KNOWINGLY

ou must come down to Exeter for the weekend!” you said to them, a couple of months ago. And now it’s Friday evening and they’re here, those visiting friends, still reeking of mouthy Manchester, or vibrant Bristol, or well-heeled Cheltenham. And let’s not forget those dear old Londoners, who think everyone in Devon works in farming and that you can’t get chorizo west of Guildford.

We love our friends from other cities, but find they do sometimes need reminding that high class, cosmopolitan, boundary-pushing leisure experiences are not exclusive to their own patch.

So, next time your out-of-town pals arrive on your doorstep saying: “I expect it’s pretty quiet round here,” just smile knowingly, and give them 48 hours that’ll have them trying to move into the guest room on a permanent basis.

Blow their townie minds on Dartmoor

FOR THE CHAMPAGNE CHARLIES

Shake off the week, and their strenuous journey down the M5, with a glass or three of Friday night fizz at Hotel du Vin. The nation’s 16 Hotel du Vin boutique hotels, mostly in cathedral or university towns, are shorthand for vaguely boho luxury and have been credited by the likes of Jay Rayner with dragging the UK hotel industry into the 21st century. Exeter’s very own HduV landed earlier this year (in what used to be The Magdalen Chapter) – in short, it’s a place your chums can wear their Missoni maxi dresses and Jeffery West brogues and meet all your high-achieving friends

PHOTO BY TONY HOWELL

Oh sorry, haven’t you got a Pig in London?

If your house guests know their harissa from their hogget and the first thing they ask on perusing any menu is “Is this local, seasonal and organic?” you’ve long been on safe ground here in Devon.

And that was before the justly-heralded arrival of The Pig at Combe (see review, page 36) which gives we natives yet more bragging rights. Book a table well in advance either here or, for a quieter, more formal atmosphere, at the internationallyrenowned, double Michelin-starred Gidleigh Park where new(ish) head chef Michael Wignall’s intricate, sophisticated fare will blow their minds.

If you’re sticking within the city limits, you should chow down at back street gastropubs The Rusty Bike or The Fat Pig for the ultimate in Londoner-taunting rustic chic and self-confident swagger. Then, be sure to swing by Darts Farm and The Real Food Store for them to stock up on top-notch, locally produced goodies to take home.

With a bit of luck they’ll stop quacking on about Borough Market for five minutes. w

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 17

WEEKENDER

There are still, bafflingly, some out-of-towners who don’t think “contemporary arts” when they hear the word “Devon”. Big mistake. Huge. If your theatre-loving mates are keen patrons of, say, Battersea Arts Centre, Bristol’s Tobacco Factory or the Edinburgh Fringe, take them to see a play at the Bike Shed Theatre which is not only on the same buzzy, edgy circuit but also generates many of the fresh, relevant shows national critics go on to fall head over heels in love with. Just as an example, There Shall Be Fireworks (Tue 27 Sept - Sat 1 Oct) by South West theatremakers The Plasticine Men sees an American statesman bid an emotional farewell to Afghanistan.

And if your pals are the sort with lifetime membership of the Tate Modern, a trip to the art spaces within Exeter Phoenix will not disappoint – we recently spent a very happy hour taking in the current main show, Laura Reeves Bouquets, (running until 3 Sept), which is all about memory and ephemera – and you can get a weapons-grade coffee there afterwards, too.

Friends with little ones will appreciate the stuffed animals, endless fascinating curios and hands-on craft activities of RAMM – it’s Exeter’s answer to the Natural History Museum and has a much smaller queue. . .

FOR THE SPORTY ONES

No, we don’t have a Premier League football team but, seriously, whatever? We’ve got proper, heroic sports down here. Namely rugby, and Aviva Prem finalists Exeter Chiefs – among them bona fide England rugby stars-off-the-telly Jack Nowell, Henry Slade, Geoff Parling, Luke CowanDickie, Thomas Waldrom, Ollie Devoto and Tom Johnson. And your out-of-town friends really should see them in action at Sandy Park. Tickets cost from a very reasonable £27 for an adult on the day. Or go swimming/sunbathing at Chagford Outdoor Pool – they’ll go nuts.

FOR THE INSTAGRAMMERS

Look, if your friends are generous enough to share their every waking moment with the internet, the very least you can do as a supportive host is introduce them to some pretty photography locations during their stay.

The obvious place to start is Exeter Quay (see feature, page 22) where, rain or shine, they’ll snap something so romantic and continental-looking their followers will ask if they’re in Monte Carlo or Lake Garda. You could hire bikes and do the Exe Estuary ride, too, which will make a relaxing change from inhaling diesel fumes and dodging Poundland lorries wherever it is they live.

When you arrive in Topsham, just relax with an ice cream while they amuse themselves taking selfies against sunsets, close-ups of reed beds, rowing boats at low tide, and agonising over whether to filter with Valencia or X-Pro II. If they’ve brought their Hunters (and they will have – they think you’re all farmers, remember?) a walk on Dartmoor is a must, for delicate 18 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO BY EMMA SOLLEY

FOR THE CULTURE VULTURES

light, dramatic skies, and cute ponies, with an archetypally Devon pint, pasty and roaring fire at the end of it. How dare Mancunians try to monopolise brooding moors?

FOR THE BOND STREET BOYS AND GIRLS

It’s fair to stay Exeter is no slave to fashion. We rock our own, individual looks in this part of the country, and tend to favour timeless good taste over look-at-me labels. However, if you do count hardcore fashionistas among your weekend companions, take them and their credit cards to Dukes – there are women’s and men’s stores sideby-side – which stocks exquisite garb from labels like Alice by Temperley, Armani, Barbour, Chinti & Parker, Day Birger & Mikkelsen, Diesel, Hugo Boss, Joseph, Moschino, Oliver Sweeney, Paul Smith and Roberto Cavalli, and what co-owner Rebecca doesn’t know about the season’s best, most wearable trends isn’t worth knowing.

And if your friends are all a bit more Dalston, a trip to vintage clothing expert Willow Hilson (see feature, page 44) will have them clutching their pearls, in a good way.

AND FINALLY, FOR THE CONVERTS. . .

So they’ve finally agreed Exeter knocks their own city into a cocked hat. But they’re not convinced they could ever, actually, make the move here because of their career, little Molly’s education, and the hassle of moving house.

Here’s how you close the deal. Take them for a Sunday drive. Point out the thriving, 60-acre Science Park, which is attracting more upwardlymobile science and technology-based businesses, start-ups and entrepreneurs by the day (and want more) and is minutes from the M5 and airport; and the Innovation Centre, home of Crowdcube which they’ll have read about in the Financial Times, and other whizzy types; and the University. Cruise by some of Exeter’s amazing, sought-after schools.

Then peep into some estate agents windows and tell your friends to strike now before house prices rise to Bath levels. Then go home, put the kettle on, and wait for the penny to drop.

Clockwise, from above: take a trip to Sandy Park to see A-list rugby dudes like Jack Nowell; shop for designer togs at Dukes; friends will love a bike ride along the Exe Estuary trail; RAMM’s a must for friends with kids

IN THE KNOW

Impressing the out-oftowners – easy when you know how. Places for them to Google while they’re waiting for the bathroom hotelduvin.com abodeexeter.co.uk southernhayhouse.com theoddfellowsbar.co.uk deliveroo.co.uk thepighotel.com/at-combe gidleigh.co.uk/ fatpig-exeter.co.uk rustybike-exeter.co.uk dartsfarm.co.uk realfoodexeter.co.uk/ bikeshedtheatre.co.uk exeterphoenix.org.uk rammuseum.org.uk exeterchiefs.co.uk chagfordpool.co.uk devon.gov.uk/exeestuarytrail dartmoor.gov.uk dukesclothing.co.uk willowhilson.com exetersciencepark.co.uk spaceforsuccess.co.uk (Exeter Innovation Centre)

no, we don’t have a premier league

football team but, seriously, whatever?

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WE GOT the QUAY From wool trading to the notorious Warehouse nightclub, Exeter Quay is the watery heart of Exeter life, with a history that’s as rich as its future is bright. By ROXANNE DURIS

E

xeter Quay has gone through various incarnations since the Romans started using a sandstone ledge here as a loading bay. As a European trading post in the 17th and 18th centuries, the waterway was packed with ships full of Spanish wine and Dutch wool; and though it became considerably quieter after the arrival of the railways, the former warehouses were repurposed into workshops, shops and pubs. It served as a location for TV series The Onedin Line in the 1970s, a clubbing hotspot in the 1980s, and has since been best known for its al fresco food and drink spots, and watersports.

Right now, on both sides of the canal, the Quay is home to dozens of plucky, forwardthinking independent businesses – some iconic,

22 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

others brand new – with further, exciting projects percolating as we write.

What has always remained constant is The Quay’s role in city life, especially on sunny days when the cobbles throng with all walks of Exeter life – locals and tourists, young and old, rich and poor, two- and four-legged, and twoand four-wheeled. And don’t forget the swans – we counted 30 last time we looked.

This year, Exeter Quay has been busier than ever, with 77 events already hosted – including the fantastic Exeter Street Food events – and heaps more to come over August bank holiday weekend and throughout the rest of the year (we’re especially looking forward to the annual climbing event – see Spotlight, page 11 – and a few tipples at the intriguing, new Cockt-Ale Festival on 24 September).

Here, we look to the past with local people’s best Quay-based memories, weigh up the hereand-now, and look at what’s brand new and on the horizon...

CITY LIFE

Opposite: Alex Toze’s shot of Exeter Quay captures those balmy summer evenings when it’s at its best This page, clockwise from left: Samuel Jones enjoys an unbeatable waterside spot; Exeter Cookery School is leading the charge south of the canal; Katie de Pelet’s son makes some new friends

PAST

THE

COBBLES

THRONG WITH ALL

WALKS OF EXETER LIFE

Sorry, we couldn’t find any Georgian merchants but we did get some fun Quay memories from these Exeter people. . .

“Possibly my most memorable moment on the Quay was the first challenge in a series of 24 that I had to complete in 24 hours. This particular one was to swim from one side of the Quay to the other. Pretty straightforward – or so I thought. However, the combination of extremely cold water, and an extremely tight, borrowed wetsuit meant that it was the sheer will of not dying by drowning in swan poo that got me across.

“The same day, because clearly I am insane, I did what Haven Banks call a ‘powerfan freefall descent’ off a 22-metre high tower. This time it was not the swan poo that was my main concern.

Oh, and I was told I’d be abseiling.

“10 years prior to doing any of these crazy challenges, I was a normal student, who enjoyed doing normal things, like clubbing in fancy dress at what was a multi-storey nightclub, The Warehouse, and is now unrecognisable as Samuel Jones.”

Ashley Petrons

“My most memorable day on the Quay was on 20 December 2010, when the city was covered with virgin-white snow. Gazing longingly out of the window, my assistant and I decided to take the afternoon off work to enjoy this unique moment and walk in the wonderful winter wonderland down to the Quay.

“We dropped down to Trews Weir and saw a snow-bunny! Next was an amazing 30-foot caterpillar leading down from a tree trunk.

The canal basin itself was completely covered in snow and it was the most amazing sight.

Outside The Jolly Roger Tea Rooms was a drunk snowman in the spirit of Christmas; a geisha girl with a red tomato creatively used as her tongue.

We concluded our magical snow-tour with a warm glass of mulled wine at the Coffee Cellar with the snowy scene feeling like après-ski.”

Glen King “My son Max (four) bumped into the Tongan rugby team down on the Quay during the Rugby World Cup last year! He loves riding his bike down there – we go most weekends, but on 15 September, we were lucky enough to bump into these guys, and he had his photo taken with them.”

Katie de Pelet w

“When we first set up Christopher Piper Wines in 1980 we used the old bonded warehouse on the Quay, which was owned first by Carr & Madge and then by a firm called City Vintagers.

We used to drive our van in to collect our wines from this store almost every day. A bonded warehouse is a customs-controlled warehouse where you can store goods subject to excise duties under duty suspension.

“We eventually acquired our own warehouse premises and moved from the Quay. I believe the building later became a ‘discotheque’, as we called them in our day!”

John Earle www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 23

CITY LIFE

From top: timeless craftsmanship under the arches at Goodwood Cellars; 2010’s winter wonderland, as witnessed by Glen King

PRESENT

Long-established and much-loved Quay faves Few shopping experiences, in our view, match a browse around the Quay. Can we tell you a secret? Sometimes we arrive for meetings down there an hour early just so we can ‘kill some time’ (by which we mean shop for ludicrously affordable vintage jewellery and collectibles) at Exeter Quay Antiques.

We also love the whiff of sawdust and good, honest workmanship emanating from joinery workshop Goodwood Cellars, and the explosion of vivid green petals and technicolour petals that is the tiny Earth Gallery Flowers. And we could blow a week’s food budget on the driftwood trinkets in its next-door neighbour, long-standing gift shop Quay Presents. Across the bridge (or via Butt’s Ferry), you can get your balayage and babylights done at the most wackily-named hairdresser in the country (as far as we know), the excellent A Salon Called Hare.

When you’re peckish, you can feast on pizza (and more) on both sides of the water, at On The Waterfront and Bar Venezia, or grab a table at the popular Mango’s, while The Prospect Inn and Samuel Jones between them have all pub preferences covered, from old-school to trendy. And about a mile down the canal towards Topsham is the Double Locks. Come latte o’clock, we’re also rather partial to Lutzy’s, where we eavesdrop on retirees with boats.

Got the urge to take to the water? Between them, the Saddles & Paddles and AS Watersports can sort you out for canoes and kayaks (the former hires out bikes, too) and there’s also Quay Climbing Centre – the South West’s largest indoor climbing wall – and courses for all ages to sign up for at Exeter College’s outdoor activity education centre Haven Banks.

And don’t forget the Visitor Centre in the beautiful 1680 Custom House if you want to know more about the history and development of the area.

BRAND NEW

What’s popped up across those cobbles in recent months…

The Quay’s undergoing an exciting period of regeneration, with more imaginative, ambitious businesses fast on their way – newly opened, the impressive Exeter Cookery School has kicked things off on the Quay’s south side.

The Generator, a new co-working space, has just opened its second location in the city at the Kings Wharf building.

Nourishment-wise, the very new and pretty awesome Pizza Stein offers 100% authentic, 24 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

wood-fired Napoli pizza in an atmospheric converted warehouse; and Victorian-inspired cocktail bar/tea room Doctor Ink’s Curiosities – “a den of iniquity”, in their words – has recently launched at the Customs House.

More investment into the area has come from the fresh-out-the-box Rock Chiropractic, which has moved into the former tourist information office. Conveniently placed if you get backache from spending too long in a canoe. . .

FUTURE

Coming soon to Exeter Quay!

High-end residential developments will also bring much-needed footfall, cash and, well, human life into the Quay, year-round.

Hilton Barnfield Architects’ development of Grade II-listed Kennaway Stores building next to Samuel Jones – to comprise seven apartments, to be sold by Wilkinson Grant, and two retail units and a high profile food and drink chain – is due for completion this autumn.

In a few years (current estimated opening date is 2020), these will be joined by what we think might just be the boldest Quayside development yet: The Boat Shed, aka the Bike Shed Theatre’s proposed new performance space/bar/bakery/ market/studios based in the old Maritime Museum, which has been empty for the last 17 years. Watch this space.

With the Exeter Civic Society and an Exeter City Council taskforce investigating everything from access and parking to how to attract film and TV companies, the challenge is now on to develop the Quay into something even more attention-grabbing, without losing its historic charm and independent-minded spirit. We can’t wait to see what happens next…

WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE WHAT

HAPPENS

NEXT

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Art/craft/music/theatre/more

EDUARDO PAOLOZZI, COPYRIGHT DACS

SNAPSHOTS OF EXETER’S CULTURAL LIFE

PRINTS CHARMING

The son of Italian ice cream sellers in Edinburgh, Eduardo Paolozzi, who died in 2005, was one of Britain’s finest pop artists.

Now, a Hayward Touring exhibition at Thelma Hulbert Gallery brings together 50 screenprints and photolithographs created between 1965 and 1970, in which the artist plays with images from advertising, fashion and Hollywood, like in An Empire Of Silly Statistics...A Fake War For Public, seen here.

Collectively known as General Dynamic F.U.N, the series was described by author JG Ballard as a “unique guidebook to the electric garden of our minds.”

Colour us intrigued. . .

General Dynamic F.U.N., a Hayward Touring Exhibition, is at Thelma Hulbert Gallery from 10 September – 8 October; thelmahulbert.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 29

12 August – 12 September

The Devon Guild’s Summer Show runs until 4 Sept; piano legend Alfred Brendel visits Dartington; the Ocean Film Festival Tour comes to Exeter Corn Exchange on 9 Sept

Art UNTIL 27 AUGUST

THG OPEN Competition for established and emerging artists from across the South West. You can vote for your favourite (which is difficult!).

Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Dowell Street, Honiton; thelmahulbert.com UNTIL 28 AUGUST

FROM MOOR TO SEA Works selected by artist Alan Cotton that depict the light, life and landscape of the West Country.

Brook Gallery, 1 Barnfield Crescent, Exeter; brookgallery.co.uk

UNTIL 28 AUGUST

GROSVENOR SCHOOL INSPIRED Contemporary linocuts inspired by The British Grosvenor School of Modern Art of the 1920s-30s.

Brook Gallery, 30 Fore Street, Budleigh Salterton; brookgallery.co.uk UNTIL 28 AUGUST

INTERNATIONAL GARDEN PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR Stunning shots of gardens from around the world.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; exeter.gov.uk/ramm UNTIL 3 SEPTEMBER

LAURA REEVES: BOUQUETS Idiosyncratic artworks using

30 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

images from Reeves’ own personal archives and those unearthed in charity shops.

Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; exeterphoenix.org.uk UNTIL 4 SEPTEMBER

THE SUMMER SHOW Devon Guild of Craftsmen members show off their new work.

Devon Guild, Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey; crafts.org.uk UNTIL 25 SEPTEMBER

ILLUSTRATING HARRY POTTER Jim Kay’s original illustrations, sketches, models and prints from the new edition of JK Rowling’s Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone. Accompanying events include stargazing (19 Aug) and

quidditch lessons (until 29 Aug).

Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot; discoverhannahs.org UNTIL 9 OCTOBER

THE GREAT BIG RHINO PROJECT 42 life-sized, painted rhinos, sponsored by local organisations, have invaded the streets of Exeter, to raise awareness of their plight.

Various locations, Exeter and the English Riviera; greatbigrhinos.org.uk UNTIL 20 OCTOBER

EXETER’S FINE ART COLLECTION: SUMMER AND AUTUMN Works from the collection, inspired by summer and autumn.

W H AT ’ S O N

ARTS

Catch The Magic Numbers lady Michele Stodart at Exeter Phoenix on 31 Aug; family fun in the city centre at The Weekend Starts Here, 26-27 Sept

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; exeter.gov.uk/ramm 10 SEPTEMBER-8 OCTOBER

EDUARDO PAOLOZZI: GENERAL DYNAMIC F.U.N. See page 29.

Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Dowell St, Honiton; thelmahulbert.com 10 SEPTEMBER-4 DECEMBER

KURT JACKSON: REVISITING TURNER’S TOURISM Works by the contemporary British landscape artist (and Glastonbury Festival artist-inresidence) Jackson and Romantic painter JMW Turner.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; exeter.gov.uk/ramm 10-25 SEPTEMBER

DEVON OPEN STUDIOS See feature, page 34.

Various venues, Exeter; devonartistnetwork.co.uk

Theatre, Comedy & Dance 3-4 SEPTEMBER

BLOWN AWAY

Adaptation of Rob Biddulph’s award-winning children’s book, for ages 3+ (and babies). Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; exeternorthcott.co.uk 8-11 SEPTEMBER

THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA The Shakespeare comedy, delivered by none other than Shakespeare’s Globe on tour.

Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter; exeternorthcott.co.uk

Music & Opera UNTIL 26 AUGUST

DARTINGTON INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL & FESTIVAL A month of top-notch classical music with appearances from trumpeter Alison Balsom, violinist Chloe Hanslip and legendary ivory-tinkler Alfred Brendel.

Dartington, Dartington Hall, Totnes; dartington.org 15 AUGUST

HAYSEED DIXIE Rock classics given a rockabilly

makeover. Genius.

Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; exeterphoenix.org.uk 19 AUGUST

MR WOODNOTE WITH LIL RHYS AND EVA LAZARUS Big and bouncy, funky beats.

Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; exeterphoenix.org.uk 19-21 AUGUST

BEAUTIFUL DAYS Leftfield, James, The Coral, Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings and more join organisers The Levellers at this annual festival near Ottery St Mary.

Escot Park, Ottery Saint Mary; beautifuldays.org 31 AUGUST

MICHELE STODART The bassist/singer from The Magic Numbers, which she formed with her brother Romeo, goes solo to promote her melodic, highly-rated second album Pieces.

Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; exeterphoenix.org.uk 9-11 SEPTEMBER

LOCKDOWN FESTIVAL See Spotlight, page 11.

Powderham Castle, Kenton; powderham.co.uk

Other Events 15 AUGUST

EXON DOMESDAY FAMILY FUN 950 years on from the Battle of Hastings, see the precious The Exon Domesday Manuscript and take part in all-ages Normanthemed activities.

Chapter House, Exeter Cathedral, 1 The Cloisters, Exeter; exeter-cathedral.org.uk 16 & 22 AUGUST

ROCKPOOL RAMBLE Discover sea life on the beach in this family event. 10am-12noon.

Ladram Bay beach (right hand side when facing the sea), Otterton, EX9 7BX (16 Aug); Jacob’s Ladder, Peak Hill Road, Sidmouth EX10 8RZ (22 Aug). eastdevoncountryside.co.uk 16 & 23 AUGUST

TRY IT TUESDAYS Sample new sporting activities with the family. 11am-3pm.

NT Killerton, Exeter; nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton w

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 31

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

16, 23 & 30 AUGUST

LITTLE EXPLORERS Booking essential for these popular holiday craft sessions for the under-fives. RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; exeter.gov.uk/ramm 17 AUGUST

SCYTHING BASICS Fancy making like Poldark? A chance for ages 12+ to learn how to cut grass and weeds, and make hay, the old-fashioned way.

Honiton Bottom Community Nature Reserve; eastdevoncountryside.co.uk 17 & 24 AUGUST

WICKED WEDNESDAYS Storytelling in the garden.

11am-3pm.

NT Killerton, Killerton House, Exeter; nationaltrust. org.uk/killerton 18 AUGUST

GARDEN QUEST BOTANICAL WALK Guided walk around Exeter with botanist Mike Lock, finding out more about the botany of familiar flowers and trees.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; 01392 265858; exeter.gov.uk/ramm

Embark upon a Rockpool Ramble with the East Devon Countryside Team on 16 & 22 Aug

between 11am and 3pm.

Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Dowell Street, Honiton; thelmahulbert.com 22-23 AUGUST

WILD THURSDAYS Have a go at exciting and wild activities in the park. 11am-3pm.

NT Killerton, Killerton House, Exeter; nationaltrust. org.uk/killerton

WORDPRESS Learn how to create and manage your own WordPress website.

You’re taught on Mac, but skills transfer easily to PC. Book ahead.

Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter; exeterphoenix.org.uk

19 AUGUST

23 AUGUST

18 & 25 AUGUST

BUG HUNT Search for mini-beasts in the wild, with the help of East Devon’s countryside rangers. No dogs. No booking necessary. 1pm-3pm.

The Knapp Community Nature Reserve; eastdevoncountryside.co.uk 20 AUGUST

EXETER BOOK FAMILY FUN See the amazing Exeter Book and enjoy Anglo-Saxon-themed activities. Noon-3pm.

Chapter House, Exeter Cathedral, 1 The Cloisters, Exeter; exeter-cathedral.org.uk 20, 26-27 AUGUST

THG FAMILY WORKSHOPS Join artists to make things with natural materials – in the garden if it’s sunny! Free, just drop in

TIME TRAVELLER CLUB: WOEFUL WAR OF THE ROSES Make crowns and banners and show your allegiance in a mock battle between the houses of York and Lancaster. Book ahead.

Cathedral Green, 1 The Cloisters, Exeter; exeter-cathedral.org.uk 25-28 AUGUST

OPEN-AIR CINEMA Classic movies by starlight, plus the new Absolutely Fabulous flick.

Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot; discoverhannahs.org 26-28 AUGUST

DEEP WATER SOLO FESTIVAL OF CLIMBING See Spotlight, page 11.

Piazza Terracina, Quay, Exeter;

32 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

quayclimbingcentre.co.uk 26-27 AUGUST

THE WEEKEND STARTS HERE Free summer event from BID, with activities and entertainment across the city centre, 11am-3.30pm.

Various locations, Exeter; inexeter.com

7 SEPTEMBER

TRADITIONAL INDIAN MEDICINE Exeter-based herbal expert Simon Mills shares his insights into Ayurvedic medicine.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; 01392 265858; exeter.gov.uk/ramm 9 SEPTEMBER

27 AUGUST

EXETER STREET ARTS FESTIVAL Live music, acrobats, jugglers, art, poetry, dance, street theatre, drop-in workshops and circus acts take to the city streets.

Princesshay, Cathedral Green and other locations, Exeter; exeterstreetartsfestival.co.uk

OCEAN FILM FESTIVAL TOUR The world’s best, new oceanthemed short films, totalling over two hours of breathtaking footage taken above and below the water.

Exeter Corn Exchange, Market Street, Exeter; exeter.gov.uk/cornexchange 10 SEPTEMBER

NOURISH FESTIVAL See Spotlight, page 13.

High Street, Methodist Church Hall and other venues, Bovey Tracey; nourishfestival.org

CITY FORAGING WALK Three-hour course led by renowned ethnobotanist and professional forager Robin Harford. Discover wild food in the hidden foraging haunts of Exeter.

RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter; exeter.gov.uk/ramm

3 SEPTEMBER

12 SEPTEMBER

1-3 SEPTEMBER

SAYING GOODBYE SERVICE Music, poetry, readings and acts of remembrance for those grieving the loss of a baby; for all faiths and none.

Exeter Cathedral, 1 The Cloisters, Exeter; sayinggoodbye.org

STARFISH BY STARLIGHT Amazing opportunity to join the Rangers for a torch-lit rockpool safari. 8-9.30pm. All ages welcome.

Exmouth Beach (left of the lifeboat station), Queens Drive, Exmouth; eastdevoncountryside.co.uk

OPEN DOOR POLICY It’s that time of year again! We spoke to four local artists about their role in this year’s DEVON OPEN STUDIOS, which starts on Saturday 10 September

DEVON OPEN STUDIOS

A

rtists’ studios are magical and mysterious places.

Half-finished works propped against paintsplattered walls, old tins of brushes, the smell of linseed oil, a radio murmuring away in the corner. . . And pretty much the only time a local nonartist gets a glimpse inside one of these creative hideaways is during Devon Open Studios (DOS), the biggest art show in the county.

Devon is home to more artists than any other and our own corner of it will be acquitting itself splendidly during the event – we spoke to four Exeter/Exmouth-based artists about just what makes them tick, and why DOS is so vital to the region’s cultural life.

JANE ROPER “Whilst raising two teenage daughters as a single parent I have had 10 years of recurrent ill health.

Drawing, moulding and stitching personal and archetypal symbols can play a pivotal role in bringing lost or broken parts of our self back together again,” says artist and art therapist Jane.

“My artwork has always been a place to hide autobiographical symbolism. Recent monoprints explore the tensions of connection and isolation, solidity and fragility, permanence and loss through a moor-like landscape with symbols representing shelter, hut, hearth, home, and door, portal or aperture.”

“Art provides a world in which to make something positive and tangible from something difficult and incomprehensible.”

Jane will be opening her studio at 24 Melbourne Street, Exeter EX2 4AU from 17–20 September

Opposite, clockwise from top: Red Wolves by Sally Rich; Jane Roper’s Slipping Stones; The Four Corners of Britain

by Steve Thorpe; Swayling on Dartmoor by James Tatum

SALLY RICH The award-winning illustrator has produced several children’s books in her time, and is now focusing on creating a completely new body of one-off images focused on wildlife.

“As part of DOS, I will be showing many original flower, fox, badger and wolf paintings, alongside sketches and plans and images from my books,” she says.

“For me, DOS is an important event in every artist’s calendar; it supports access to a greater variation of new and original art. For visitors, it allows an opportunity to buy work directly from the artist, ask questions and build relationships that can last a lifetime.

“My garden is an extension of my art. Its full of topiary sculptures of foxes and chickens, lollipop trees and spirals. I look forward to meeting, and making, many new friends over the course of the Devon Open Studios 2016.”

THE BEST THING ABOUT

DEVON OPEN STUDIOS HAS BEEN HAVING SO MANY INTERESTING CONVERSATIONS OVER CUPS OF TEA

JAMES TATUM An established landscape painter and South West Academician, James is represented by several galleries across the UK and Europe. This year’s DOS will see him showing his latest depictions of Devon, the South West and Wales.

“I am an expressionistic landscape painter combining rigorous, rational observation with intuitive, spontaneous mark-making,” he says. “My process of making paintings begins with long periods of drawing in the landscape and recording not only what I see, but also my visceral responses to a particular place on a particular day.

“I have been participating in Devon Open Studios since 2009 and find that it is an excellent way to meet and talk with people who share my passion for nature and landscape painting.”

James Tatum invites you to his new studio at 1 West Avenue, Exeter EX4 4SD on 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24 & 25 September; jamestatumartist.com

ARTS

Sally’s studio at 58 St Johns Road, Exmouth EX8 4DD will be open on 10, 11,16, 17,18, 23, 24 & 25 September; sallyrich.co.uk

STEVE THORPE “I began collecting stones off mountain tops when I was 12 years old,” says wood-androck-dust artist Steve. “And for the last 10 years I’ve been collecting stones on walks and cycle trips and using them to make artworks. They form an amazing variety of colours when I grind them up with a pestle and mortar.

“In the last couple of years I’ve been incorporating pieces of driftwood as well – it started when I was approached by someone who wanted a birthday present for his wife. They had done a lot of travelling around Britain in their camper van and he asked me if I could make a piece of work

based on that.

“This led me to make a piece called The Four Corners Of Britain using stones from Land’s End, John O’Groats, Cape Wrath and Dungeness. His wife cried when she saw it for the first time. In a good way, I think!

“The best thing about Devon Open Studios has been meeting new people and having so many interesting conversations over cups of tea, not only from people interested in art, but from people like geologists and geographers too, who are fascinated by the process and results of what I do.”

See Steve in his studio at Shapters End, 8A Lower Shapter Street, Topsham, Exeter EX3 0AT from 16-19 & 23-25 September; stevethorpe.org Devon Open Studios is back from Saturday 10 to Sunday 25 September.

Pick up the full guide from Devon libraries, Tourist Information Centres and arts and community venues or download one at devonartistnetwork.co.uk/ event-series/devon-open-studios

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36 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

The Pig At Combe

Can the year’s biggest new opening possibly live up to the hype? ANNA BRITTEN trots off to find out uick primer for those at the back: The Pig is a brand of trendy, informal country house hotels that has, in a few short years, become the Pokemon Go of the nation’s metropolitan foodie classes. Right now, the most hardcore fans are travelling across the country in a bid to tick all five high-end, shabby-chic hideaways off their bucket list. Last year, the company took over the much-loved Combe House Devon in Gittisham and spent eight months engaged in a colossal overhaul and refurb.

By the time The Pig at Combe officially opened for business recently, anticipation was so high it took 1,500 room bookings in 24 hours. You’ll struggle to get a peaktime table in the restaurant between now and the onset of autumn, though if you really can’t wait there’s a delightful Folly (log tables, wattle and daub lanterns), serving light bites and drinks, with no need to book.

Scepticism’s our default setting, but the reason for all this excitement becomes clear bit by gorgeous bit, as we pick our way across the gravel pathway from the packed car park. The new owners have breathed new life into this beautiful Elizabethan pile – a whole, vast window has been uncovered in the restaurant, for example, the dark wood paneling sanded down to blond, and the imposing former entrance hall turned into a warm, buzzy bar stacked with mismatched coloured glassware, stuffed animals and oil paintings, roaring fires and comfy sofas.

They have also put the ‘country’ back into the country house hotel – it’s 21st century Cider With Rosie rather than Downton Abbey, the pots of living herbs on bare wood tables, for example, the stuff of nature-deprived city-dwellers’ dreams, and the army of cheery, efficient waiting staff in Converse, and BBC 6 Music approach to background tunes, making for a demob-happy mood.

Intergenerational conversations are in full flow. Human life seems to thrive here, just as plant life does out in the enormous kitchen garden – you can walk round it, and we

IT’S 21ST CENTURY CIDER

WITH ROSIE RATHER THAN

DOWNTON ABBEY

strongly recommend you do – which is in constant contact with head chef Daniel Gavriilidis to update the menu by the minute, according to what’s ripe for the picking today.

If your food isn’t from the garden outside, it’s from within a 25-mile radius.

One section of the menu is called ‘Literally Picked This Morning’ and it’s from this we select our starter of yellow and red Cylindra beetroot, crispy chickpeas and matchsticks of Cox apples – it is as thoughtful as it is delicious, the beetroot warm, the chickpeas hazelnutty, and preserved, rather than fresh, lemon giving a distinctly deep, citrus kick to the yoghurt dressing. Across the table, Lyme Bay handdived scallops and homemade pancetta with a dense fennel puree are at once fancy and filling.

‘Otter Valley and Lyme Bay’, the menu’s main section, yields fillets of brill – flaunting its juicy flesh and perfect crispy skin on a salty, fragrant cushion of sea kale and seaweed the colour of Hunter wellies, and a fistful of plump Exmouth mussels. Also, Pipers Farm rump of perfectlyseasoned, pink-centred lamb dabbed with tomato jam and served with crushed, buttery Arran potatoes and tenderstem broccoli. On the side, crispy ‘tobacco’ onions – so called because, after the thinly-sliced onion has been dipped in milk, flour and paprika, and then fried, it looks like something you could put in a pipe and smoke – are so good I want them as a TV snack, every night, forever. The silken, fruity Californian pinot noir, recommended by our young sommelier, is a perfect match.

Desserts show a sense of humour: my gin jelly looks like a silicon breast implant, and tastes like a wicked night out, the cucumber sorbet it’s served with a head-rinsing revelation, and my dining chum’s gooseberry tartlet with clotted cream and honey is glorious, somewhat grandmotherly, and quintessentially English.

This is local, seasonal cooking at its self-confident, celebratory best. Or, as our lovely waitress puts it: “They come up with stuff you wouldn’t even think would work as food.”

We’re lucky enough to have a room for the night in the converted stables – and are, literally, lost for words on entering it. Let’s just say, if you want to knock someone’s socks off, book the Horse Box. The Pig at Combe isn’t just a great new arrival on the Devon dining scene; it’s a gift. A joy. Say hello to your new happy place.

DINING DETAILS The Pig At Combe, Gittisham, Honiton EX14 3AD; 01404 540400 (reservations 0345 225 9494); thepighotel.com Prices Surprisingly reasonable, given the quality/brand; starters from £3.75, mains from £16, sides £3.75, puddings £7 Opening hours Folly – 11am until 7.30pm; main restaurant – noon-2.30pm & 6.30-9.30pm Vegetarian choice Usually a couple of highly inventive options Disabled access The gravel drive could be tricky, otherwise fine Drinks Longest wine list we’ve ever seen, with well over 100 each of red and white, plenty of fizz, and three of their own blends Service/atmosphere Second to none!

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 37

PASHA

TURKISH & MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE

Pasha is Exeter’s new independent Turkish and Mediterranean restaurant serving both traditional and contemporary Turkish food daily, along with an excellent wine list featuring some very good Turkish wines.

Come and join us for a leisurely lunch or dinner – you will always receive a friendly and warm welcome from the Pasha team.

Monday to Friday from 5pm to 10.30pm and Saturday from 12 noon through to 10.30pm.

Closed on Sundays.

80 South Street, Exeter EX1 1EQ Call: 01392 279464 • Email pashaexeter@btconnect.com www.pashaexeter.co.uk

AFTERNOON TEA FOR TWO, ONLY £22 ·········································· 5 COURSE TASTING MENU & COMPLIMENTARY HARBOUR FIZZ ONLY £40 PER PERSON ·········································· LOCAL FLAVOURS LUNCH - TWO COURSES FOR £16.50 OR THREE COURSES FOR £21.00 Offers valid until 31st August

TO MAKE A RESERVATION PLEASE CALL 01395 513252 Sidmouth Harbour Hotel, Manor Road, Sidmouth, Devon EX10 8RU www.sidmouth-harbour-hotel.co.uk

exeter ’ s award - winning seafood restaurant

‘ the

best of devon on a plate ’

The Galley T

O

P

S

H

A

M

- FISH & SEAFOOD RESTAURANT -

Set Lunch & À La Carte Fresh Locally Sourced Fish & Seafood Overlooking The River Exe - Day Boat Fish Pipers Farm Meat - Creative Vegetarian Dishes Open Tuesday to Saturday 12 - 2.30pm & 6.30 - 9pm Closed Sundays & Mondays 41 Fore Street, Topsham, Exeter EX3 0HU fish@galleyrestaurant.co.uk 01392 876078

w w w. g a l l e y r e s t a u r a n t . c o . u k

Elizabeth Ann of Exeter

FINAL REDUCTIONS Come and Browse our new Showroom!

Open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 9am-4.30pm

Find us opposite

DARTS FARM

• Large selection of HB Loafers and Summer Shoes.

• Lisa Kay Casual and Occasion Shoes.

• La Ross and Franco Russo handmade Italian Shoes and Sandals.

• Van Dal • Cefalu • MJUS and much more.

Sizes 2 (35) to 8 (41) available and various fittings

3 Cathedral Close, Exeter EX1 1EZ Telephone: 01392 252876

Come visit us at: 5 Topsham Units, Dart Business Park, EX3 0QH T: 01392 873085 E: sales@dusklighting.com

www.dusklights.co.uk

Fashion/gifts/stores/more

WALL NUTS We get it, honey. With wallpaper this sugar-sweet and old-fashioned, we’d need some badass trainers and a massive tattoo to balance it out, as well. . .

Swedish brand Sandberg’s fresh, new ‘Familj’ range of wallpapers aims to capture the joy and security of being a little kid in the family home – and we’d rather like to paper our entire lives with this ‘Lotte’ variety. Who’s for an ice pop?

‘Lotte’ wallpaper by Sandberg, part of the new ‘Familj’ range, available at Duo Interiors, 36A Magdalen Rd, Exeter EX2 4TD; 01392 499177; duointeriordesign.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 41

2

3

1

6

4 5

1. SLICE WORK

2. PACK TO THE FUTURE

3. IT’S ALL ABOUT ME

4. SPOR-TEE

5. GET ON MY WICK

Victorinox Swiss classic 8cm paring knife, £4.99 The undisputed king of kitchen knives will make light work of even the fiddliest Ottolenghi recipe From The Cooks Shop, The Harlequin Centre, Paul Street, Exeter; thecooksshopexeter.co.uk

Sun Jelly retro shopping bag, £10 Big in the ’60s, again in the ’80s, and back this summer for your kitschy shopping/beach pleasure From Otter Nurseries, Gosford Rd, Ottery St Mary; otternurseries.co.uk

Ego Is The Enemy by Ryan Holiday, £10.99 Holiday reading for all who find modern life a bit, well, narcissistic. Find out why humility is your best friend with this new tome from the bestselling US author From Waterstones, 48-49 High Street, Exeter; waterstones.com

‘Trust’ T-shirt, £25 Tomato-hued and printed onto organic cotton From Howies, 16 Gandy Street, Exeter; howies.co.uk

Hightide Devon ‘Sunset’ candle, £28 Made in Devon from soy wax, with the scent cutely described as ‘Think perfect end to the day’ From The Orange Tree, Darts Farm Village, Topsham; 01392 876688; theorangetreeshop.co.uk

42 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING

8

7

WELL RED

FROM CRIMSON TO CLARET, LATE SUMMER SEES US CRAVING THE HOTTEST COLOUR OF ALL. . .

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6. SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

7. GIVE US A RING

8. SWITCHED ON

9. FILL ’ER UP

10. VIP LOUNGE

Shruti scarf, £16.95 Lightweight accessory that’s begging to hang out with your summer whites From Leaf Street 53 Magdalen Rd, Exeter; leafstreet.org.uk

Ruby and diamond 18-ct gold pendant, £1,550 What that space between your clavicles has been waiting for. . .

From Michael Spiers, 22 Cathedral Yard, Exeter; michaelspiers.co.uk

Foscarini Twiggy lamp, £948-£1327 Get your secondary lighting nailed with this elegantly poised piece From Amos Lighting, Bridford Rd, Marsh Barton Industrial Estate, Exeter; amoslighting.co.uk

Dartington Crystal LittleGems vase, £17 Designed by Hilary Green and hand-made by Devon’s glassware gurus From Dartington Crystal, Linden Close, Torrington; dartington.co.uk

Content by Terence Conran Matador armchair, £995-£1395 The wing back chair, updated for the 21st century From Amos Lighting, Bridford Rd, Marsh Barton Industrial Estate, Exeter; amoslighting.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk LIVING www.mediaclash.co.ukI IEXETER CLIFTON LIFE II 43 69

WILLOW HILSON VINTAGE BOUTIQUE Fore Street’s queen of antique clothing tells JULIAN OWEN about her shop’s new name, and some thrilling new projects Photo s by E M M A SOL L E Y

i know women, i love working with women,

dressing women

44 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SPECIAL SHOPS

Opposite: Willow Hilson has been working with fabrics since she was a child This page, clockwise from top: the window displays are ever-changing and always eye-catching; clothes tend to be racked by shade; vintage brooches make for the perfect finishing touch

‘‘T

he fashion in Britain is great, but predictable – once you know it, you know it.”

So says Willow Hilson, eponymous proprietor of Fore Street’s vintage clothing shop, for whom sourcing its sumptuous content is “like a treasure hunt. In Europe there is so much fabric history – go over to Hungary, there’s all the weave and embroidery; in France, they’re particularly good at lace and silks. American vintage is one of my favourites – they never had rationing, so the fabrics are completely different.”

If the global styles of Willow’s collection are infinitely varied, they boast a quality that is uniform. “If there’s a dress you like in H&M there’s literally thousands of them, whereas in the ’20s/’30s everything was handmade for each individual. I’ve only ever found the same dress twice, and it was in a different colour. Each one is really beautifully made, of a quality you can’t find nowadays on the high street.”

She doesn’t stock anything made post-1950s because “from that point onwards, the fabric changed and mass production came in.”

Like a tailoring-obsessed Lady Gaga, Willow Hilson was born this way. “My mum was a textiles artist, so I grew up around fabrics.”

When she was seven, the family moved to

SHOPPING

Indonesia. “Whenever we had a spare moment we’d be going round local markets, or travelling round the country learning about the weave and different techniques. I remember spending a holiday doing batiking with my mum in Bali.”

Summer visits to grandparents proved equally influential. “We weren’t a go-to-the-park kind of family, we were learning different techniques in sewing.” The benefits are ongoing. “Vintage will fit women beautifully, but 95% of the time it will need a tweak. If I’m not serving customers, I’m w

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 45

SHOPPING

SPECIAL SHOPS

Clockwise from above: Willow will tailor your new outfit to your own shape; no wonder the movie industry has come knocking; Willow hard at work; even the tools of the trade look pretty

sewing for them. I know women, I love working with women, dressing women – it’s a wonderful way of self-expression.”

It must be quite something to know you’re living out a passion developed so young?

“It’s incredible. Mum and I were discussing it the other day, remembering when I was 10 and saying ‘I want to work in fashion’. I do fabric restoration in-store, and only have those techniques because my grandmother passed them onto me – they’re not ones you can acquire easily.”

Before buying her premises, Willow managed them for the previous owner. “I kept the name so people knew we were the same shop.” When those same people “didn’t call it Relevant, but would say ‘Oh, you know, Willow’s shop’,” the change took care of itself.

Perhaps the boutique’s greatest triumph is that it more than lives up to the promise of its endlessly elegant window displays. Exeter Living has long appreciated this. More recently, so has the film world.

“I can’t say very much about it yet, but I worked on two really big films being released later this year. I got a call one morning saying ‘We need X amount of 1920s things – this is your deadline’. I’m really excited.”

Willow Hilson Vintage Boutique, 127 Fore Street, Exeter, EX4 3JQ; 01392 425123; willowhilson.com 46 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

I WORKED ON TWO REALLY BIG FILMS BEING RELEASED LATER THIS

YEAR

Were you there?

Hannah Overton and Julia Holford-White

SEEN!

Scott Palfrey and Charlene Norris

AC ROS S E X E T ER , O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

LIVIN’ IN THE CIT Y

Stephanie Allen, Hannah Burns and Nick Hewison

Exeter Living has a little do Around 150 guests joined the Exeter Living team at a summer drinks party in Exeter Castle. Thanks to Exeter Cookery School, Hanlons Brewery and Luscombe Drinks for keeping everyone nicely refreshed!

Photos by Matt Round (mattroundphotography.com)

Stephen Poat, Mike Arscott and Joss Phillips

Helen Scholes and Marc Astley

Kate Brown and Hannah Davies

Marianne and Paul Barclay and Mattie Richardson

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 49

SOCIETY

Continued from page 49

Chris Bentley and Aboo Cattran

Exeter Food Bank

Jim Fisher

Elaine Grose and Victoria Rudham Jonathan Coyte, Willa Lucas, Maddie Hurley and Joshua Mattinson

Debbie Hanzij, Michael Jones and Samantha Penberthy

Anthony Ware, Paloma Hermosa and Peter Grieg

50 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SOCIETY Felix Medland and Trudi Bird

Glen King and Mariam Badavi

Sarah Jepson, Rivka Jacobs and Sarah Treble

Tom and Alice Staniford with Badger

Jason Coward and Paula Miller

Simon Sanger-Anderson and Anna Britten

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 51

SOCIETY

HAIR TODAY Birthday party for Energy Hair Guests gathered on the lawn at a sunny Darts Farm to help Energy Hair owner, Nathan Plumridge, and his team at the Topsham salon, celebrate 18 successful years in business with lashings of fizz, music, games, fashion and a sumptuous afternoon tea.

John and Debbie Skinner and Glad and Alan Davey

Energy Hair party

Photos by Pristine Photography/ Attention Media (pristinephotography.co.uk)

Helen Creedy, Caz Meldon, Nathan Plumridge and Maggie Wayte

PUTTING ON THE RITZ

Group shot of Energy Hair’s 18th birthday party guests

Hmm, Topsham Road or Florida?

Double celebration for Exeter Golf & Country Club The ‘Twenty Sixteen’ Golf Course at Exeter Golf and Country Club was officially opened with an afternoon of golf, fizz and Devon cream teas, that also marked the Club’s 121st anniversary.

Exeter Chiefs players Henry Slade, Luke Cowan-Dickie and Thomas Waldrom helped christen the new course.

Roy James and Dave Pickering

Sue Gannon, Helen Pascoe, Sharon Thorpe, Sally Rimmer and Jane Smale 52 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Thomas Waldrom, Chris Jones, Will Gannon, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Jenni Ashford and Henry Slade

Advertising feature family law

Separating when your children are Older – points to consider...

Everyone knows that separating when you have children is tough. Who tells them, how do you tell them? Is there a better time to tell them, in the morning, in the evening, during the school holidays?

Do children react differently at different ages?

You could argue that a younger child might handle separation and divorce better, as they are able to adapt quicker to the new situation.

How does separation affect older children?

This is a tough question to answer, because every child is different.

Teenagers, however, are going through immense change in their own lives. Their bodies are changing and their brains are developing.

Emotions are all over the place. School has become more intense, with important exams looming, GCSEs or A Levels. The last thing a teenager needs is for the one stability in their life, their parents’ relationship, to fall apart.

Teenagers are more on the ball than young children in terms of seeing through a situation.

If one parent has embarked on an affair, for example, a teenager may well have picked up the undercurrents already. This acuity does

work in a positive way, too. Teenagers may have been aware for some time of the cracks in their parents’ relationship. So a discussion about separation might come as no surprise. The teenage daughter of one friend had actively been looking up houses to buy for her mum, some months before the subject was raised!

If you are the parent of teenagers, what do you need to think about if you are considering separation?

Do you stay together for the sake of the children, their emotional stability and their education – maintaining the family structure for security.

Or do you believe it will be better for everyone concerned, in the long run, if you and your partner separate.

There’s no easy answer to that, of course. At the end of the day a sterile atmosphere with estranged parents trying to rub along can be as difficult as the shock of a separation. If there’s another person involved, the teenagers may find themselves keeping secrets to protect their mother or father.

If you do decide to separate, the absolute key is to try to keep clear of the ‘blame’ culture. As hard

as this is, if your children are the most important thing in your life, it will make sense. Don’t ask a child to choose which parent they love the most – they won’t be able to.

Stay amicable, if at all possible. Unless there are very good reasons, don’t make it difficult for the other parent to have access to their child, it will backfire on you.

As carefully as you handle it, you may have to bear the brunt of anger, tears, criticism, coldness.

Even in current society, the image of a happy, ‘normal’ family unit remains a strong one, although this is gradually changing.

It’s important that you don’t have a tantrum yourself if the teens kick up. Remember that you are the grown up here. This might be a time to keep your own tears for private, or for times when you are with your close friends. The adult needs to be strong and offer stability, even it is thrown back in their face.

No one is kidding you that this will be easy. But teenagers are young adults. They can adapt and they will, at some point, be able to understand that you are allowed to have your own happiness.

www.thefamilylawco.co.uk

• Divorce or Separation

• Personal Disputes

• Conveyancing

• Debt Recovery

• Personal Injury & Inquests • Dental & Clinical Negligence

• Children Issues • Wills & Probate • Court of Protection

Shake-ups/launches/initiatives/awards

E X E T ER A N D E AS T D E VO N G E T TO WO R K

Let’s do it again!

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

“HER WORK TOP OF THE AGENDA

EXETER LIVING AWARDS ARE BACK! Save the date: 6 April sees the return of the city’s glitziest event

P

lans have just been unveiled for next year’s Exeter Living Awards, following the event’s triumphant, über-glam debut in April.

Once more they will be held in the University of Exeter’s Great Hall, on 6 April 2017. Capacity has been increased in the wake of the stunning first year attendance of 420, when many were left on the waiting list.

And our first sponsors have already been unveiled: Wilkinson Grant and Princesshay.

One addition this year sees the inclusion of a new Technology & Innovation Award, to reflect Exeter’s burgeoning tech sector. And with the unprecedented number of nominations, we are doubling the existing Professional Services category into the selfexplanatory Legal & Financial and Business Services (that’s all other companies offering a B2B service).

Commenting for Exeter Living’s publisher MediaClash, chief exec Jane Ingham said: “We were

absolutely thrilled at the reception given to our first Awards this year. The thirst to celebrate excellence and to showcase winners reflected the deep civic pride and confidence.

“Our challenge is to improve on this next year.

With the tremendous support we’ve had so far, we’re determined to produce utterly memorable Awards.”

The Awards are backed by a fulsome marketing campaign including advertising in Exeter Living (of course!), a new Awards website and massive email and social media push.

There is also a new ‘shoulder’ event: a Finalists’ reception in March.

For sponsorship enquiries, please contact joss. phillips@mediaclash.co.uk – or to be involved on the night, it’s stephanie.dodd@mediaclash.co.uk.

Full details are at exeterlivingawards.co.uk with updates on Twitter: @ExeterLivingAwd

WITHIN MY TEAM HAS BEEN TREMENDOUS”

Who’s had a much-deserved promotion?

Find out on page 58

3

THE BIG NUMBER

Awards bagged in one fortnight by Topsham business Pipity Find out more on page 58

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 57

BUSINESS INSIDER

Packing a punch!

Kate and her kits

FANTASTIC FOUR Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing or important local business stories right now

SITE SEEING Exeter Business Improvement District (Exeter BID) has launched its new ‘In Exeter’ website aimed at both residents and visitors.

The website is part of a £2.4million package of initiatives being carried out by the consortium of levy-paying businesses in the BID zone. It focuses on four key areas: Go Shopping; Eat, Drink & Stay; See and Do; and City Business. There is also a Business Directory, What’s On page and a News & Offers section.

Says BID CEO Craig Bulley: ‘The new website is a real achievement of Exeter BID and represents 641 city businesses. It is a source of information for anyone using our wonderful city and a fantastic resource for our members. I am sure it will become the ‘go to’ site for visitors and residents of Exeter with all the latest and exciting events and offers to enjoy in the city.”

For more: inexeter.com Twitter: @InExeter #InExeter Facebook: facebook.com/InExeter

IT’S ALL ABOUT DE BASS Pipity, a Topsham-based fledgling company, has just scooped a hat-trick of prestigious awards.

The brainchild of multi-tasking local mum-ofthree Kate de Bass, the portable activity case for children has won a Junior Design Award, Loved

by Parents Award and Right Start Best Toy Award – all within a fortnight.

Designed from Kate’s kitchen table, the product aims to keep children’s artistic minds occupied while also being practical and portable.

Taking a step back from digital era distraction techniques, Pipity packs are full of arts and crafts supplies to stimulate young brains either at home or on the move.

Says Kate about her wins: “Pipity sprang from a desire to find things for my own children that would spark their imaginations, keep them creatively busy and be easy to take out and about. I’m over the moon that Pipity has been recognised in these awards.”

A sample of the new site

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC LHC Architecture + Urbanism has announced five new promotions at its Exeter and Plymouth design studios. Both Alex Lammie and Steve Tapp have been promoted to associate directors, while Keiran Bartlett, Peter Koch and Phil Sanders rise to associate. . . Anouska Musson (right) of Tozers in Exeter has been promoted to associate solicitor, having qualified as a solicitor over five years ago. Paul Kelly, managing partner and head of the parks team, comments: “I am delighted that Anouska has received this well-deserved promotion. Her work within my team has been tremendous, so many congratulations.” Intellectual property specialist Tom Moore from Stephens Scown LLP has been appointed to the board of directors of Food & Drink Devon. . . And the Deer Park Country House Hotel, near Honiton, has welcomed Hadleigh Barrett as its new head chef.

58 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

For more: pipity.com

BUSINESS INSIDER

GIVE US A TENNER One of Devon’s leading insurance companies, Northcott Beaton, has launched ‘Free Tenners’ – a scheme designed to give something back to the local community.

Charities and community groups will be helped by Northcott Beaton in their fundraising efforts when they sign up as a Free Tenners Partner. Every time supporters of the registered charities purchase an insurance product from the company, £10 per policy will be donated through the scheme.

The first charity to sign up to the scheme has been The Exeter Leukaemia Fund, who support patients and their families across Devon affected by blood cancers.

The day-to-day insurance products that customers can choose from include family legal protection, mobile phone insurance, breakdown cover and homebuyers protection insurance.

“The Free Tenners scheme not only presents our customers with great insurance choices, but it raises money for local charities and community groups at the same time,” says Nick Beaton, managing director of Northcott Beaton.

“Our customers can now help their local community at the same time as protecting themselves.”

Keiron Northcott, Nick Beaton and Alison Upton

For more: northcottbeaton.co.uk

EXETER CHIEFS NEWS Chris Bentley brings you the latest from inside Sandy Park Pre-season training: how are three of them keeping a straight face?

PHOTO BY PINNACLE PHOTO AGENCY

The new season is bearing down and the Chiefs have carried on where they left off, with the Sevens team qualifying for the Singha 7s final at Wasps Ricoh arena. Led fantastically by swashbuckling captain Sam Simmonds, the team swept all aside and qualified as pool winners for the first time here at Sandy Park.

At time of writing, the final is yet to be played, but with evergreen Matt Jess spearheading a talented group of younger Chiefs, and with the wily Ricky Pellow bringing all his experience to the coaching, this scribe is hopeful that, having won the plate last term, this team can go one step further and take the title this term. The Chiefs kick off the final with a game against Northampton Saints, and will play either Cardiff Blues or Sale in the second round.

Looking to the season proper, and 15-a-side business kicks off at Sandy Park on 13 August, with Scarlets visiting for a preseason clash. This is followed by another friendly with our European Champions Cup pool-mates Ulster on 20 August.

The Chiefs are then on the road to play Dragons in the final pre-season game, and kick off the Premiership away at Wasps.

Our first home league game of the season could not be any bigger, as Rob Baxter’s men

face European and Premiership champions Saracens in what promises to be the first sell-out of the season on 11 September. With our Australian international reinforcements Dave Dennis and Greg Holmes settled in, and with Bath and England Saxon Ollie Devoto the only new signing, the squad has a very settled look to it and ambition is high.

Be sure to be there.

And finally. . . a special mention to the Chiefs photographers – the Pinnacle Photo agency. All of our pictures are from Phil and the gang and we would like to acknowledge their support.

For more: exeterchiefs.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 59

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

COBHAM A huge family home in old Pennsylvania gets JULIAN OWEN’s creative juices flowing

SHOWCASE

H

ave we got views for you? Of course we have! It would have been artless of us to have raised the matter if we hadn’t.

Sorry, we’re a little wrapped up in something at the mo – join us round the back of this sumptuous Pennsylvania pile and we’ll show you.

We’re sitting on the imposing flight of steps dividing Cobham’s sprawling patio and a splendid south-facing lawn whose mature shrub/tree borders frame an aspect fit for a good few changing-of-the-seasons watercolour sessions: a panorama vividly stretching over and above Exeter’s handsome cityscape, all the way across to the banks of the Exe in the far distance.

Thing is, we’re looking in the other direction, toward the house itself, and the gloriously wide bay window in the sitting room, echoed in the master bedroom above.

How many panes of glass can you see? Our best effort before losing count is 50, but you’ll likely find more.

Suffice to say, if you’re someone who appreciates working in the medium of light, this house is for you.

Inside, you’ll discover an altogether broader canvas of mind-easing possibilities. Step through one of two sets of rear-facing French doors, for instance, and you’ll enter a dedicated music room. Elsewhere on the ground floor things become positively holistic on the healthy body/ healthy mind front, with a room apiece given over to gym and study. That other classical value, cleanliness, is well furnished by a combination of three bathrooms (two en-suite), a shower room, and sufficient WCs to simultaneously serve the needs of a whole five-a-side football team.

Sporting considerations aside, there’s nothing to fear if you prefer to take your relaxation in rather more sedentary fashion – JK Rowling was resident in the neighbourhood while a student at the university in the

Elegant features, bags of space, south-facing views and a city location – places like this are rare indeed

HOUSE NUMBERS

£925K price

5

bedrooms

3

bathrooms

1

south-facing garden

1

studio

PROPERTY

late ’80s, thus proving this a deeply rewarding area for simply Pottering (sorry) about. The family room should fit the bill nicely, as would the splendidly spacious kitchen, replete with granite-topped moveable central island, exposed brick chimney breast, double oven and – how corking! – a voluminous fridge/freezer with integrated wine cooler. Whatever the richness of the food you rustle up here, calorie counters can be assured that just a couple of laps of that sun-dappled sitting room should walk off pretty much anything.

Our nearest star also helps turn the hallway into an ever-changing work of art, pouring light through stained glass to offer a full palette of colour as it sweeps across the floor at the foot of an ornate staircase. The landing at the top opens onto five bedrooms, including that sloped-ceiling observatory of a main slumber spot; if that garden-framed view was impressive in its scope, then the unbroken one from up here is truly spectacular. The other chief highlight up here is to be found in the family bathroom, where anyone who has brushed up on their art history will recognise the yellow suite as an elegant example of the art deco style.

Finally, there’s the spot we like to think of as the drawing room. Not in the traditional sense, you understand, but a haven for creative types away from the potential bustle of the main house. We’re talking about a hideaway above the garage, a lovely studio room replete with exposed timber frame and wood effect flooring.

Throw in the fact that the whole property is set amid the quietude of a private road – Rosebarn Lane – and you can be sure that, whatever the hour, whatever the day, the ambience is easel like Sunday morning.

Naomi J Ryan, 23 Southernhay West, Exeter EX1 1PR; 01392 799109; naomijryan.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 61

New Instruction

Budleigh Salterton, Devon

A unique opportunity to re develop this handsome period property Beautifully situated within walking distance of the town and coastline. Furzedene offers a very unique development opportunity either as one large residence or as a multiple unit site. Currently an application is pending for conversion into 3 luxury lateral apartments and the development of a coach house totalling approximately 1600 sq ft. The building itself boasts many period features and is exceptionally spacious at approximately 5589 sq ft. The grounds at Furzdene total approximately half an acre and benefit from lawns, woodland and off street parking for a number of vehicles.

Guide price ÂŁ750,000 KnightFrank.co.uk/EXE090192

To find out how we can help you please contact us edward.khodabandehloo@ knightfrank.com 01392 976178

 @KFExeter KnightFrank.co.uk

“Like many regional cities in the UK, Exeter has also experienced a shortage of good quality residential property in desirable areas where demand is strong. Due to the lack of supply, the property market in the City has remained buoyant following Brexit, which has allowed vendor’s to keep asking prices at record highs.”

“In the medium to longer term we expect values to continue on their upward trajectory as the fundamentals behind a strong property market remain, namely low interest rates and good mortgage availability supported by government policy.”

Edward Khodabandehloo Head of City Sales 01392 976178 edward.khodabandehloo@knightfrank.com

Sold

Guide price: £1,750,000

Sold

Guide price: £1,995,000

Baring Crescent, Exeter

Streatham Rise, Exeter

A spacious Grade II listed house of about 5,532 sq ft situated on one of Exeter’s most exclusive and historic crescents overlooking private gardens, 5 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, plus 2 bed annex, private gardens and parking. Communal gardens exclusive to Baring Crescent owner.

Imaginatively designed contemporary home with Art Deco influences. Accommodation of over 6,000 sq ft including 4 ensuite double bedrooms, a variety of open-plan living areas with bi-fold doors to spacious conservatory and sun terrace.

Beautifully landscaped gardens, spacious turning circle and integral double garage. EPC: B.

Two homes from our current register

NEAR UPTON PYNE

Guide Price £475,000

An extensively and beautifully renovated character cottage set in around quarter of an acre of delightful well-stocked gardens enjoying a peaceful countryside setting just a few miles North of Exeter. Offering good-size free-flowing accommodation including fabulous open-plan kitchen / diner with AGA range; three bedrooms; lovely bathrooms, plus garden office, art studio and garage.

Exeter

Guide Price £599,950 Beautifully-presented and very popular City centre GUEST HOUSE with good turnover trading figures and good potential to increase. The property is in an excellent trading position and also benefits from first class owners accommodation. This is a great opportunity to acquire a well run business in an attractive Grade II Listed property.

For a wider selection of homes visit wilkinsongrant.co.uk or telephone your nearest Wilkinson Grant & Co office, or better still drop-in for a coffee we’d be delighted to see you!

Exeter: 01392 427500 • Topsham: 01392 875000 • Exmouth: 01395 268900

Lights, Camera, Action!

If you are serious about moving and want the best chance of not only achieving the best price but avoiding disappointment, then take a look at these five tips for selling your home...

CHOOSE THE RIGHT AGENT – You could do it yourself or use a low budget agent but the ‘hidden cost’ of choosing the wrong agent could be considerable. Don’t be tempted by the agent that ‘values’ the highest or the one that quotes the lowest fee – choose the one that has a proven track record of selling and achieving best prices for properties similar to your own. Look for the agent not only with the most ‘For Sale’ boards but the most ‘Sold’ signs. The agent with the most expansive Internet exposure, the most appealing advertising & the most helpful and experienced staff. Even better, one that comes with personal recommendation from someone you know and trust.

TAKE OFF YOUR ROSE-TINTED SPECTACLES and take a close look at your property through the eyes of a serious buyer. Preparation means everything – from kerb appeal and the first impressions when a buyer walks in the door, to the lasting impressions they leave with. Tidy up the garden, sweep the drive, clean the kitchen and work on a room-by-room basis with your agent, a trusted friend with an eye for these things, to ensure each room of the property is presented to best effect.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! You are putting your property ‘on show’ and the whole performance starts well before the first viewing – usually when a potential buyer sees it on the Internet, an advert in the press, or an email from your agent. Whichever way, the first impression starts with photos. Quality photographs, imaginative and appealing descriptions and a bespoke brochure, to download or to share with friends, are all essential requirements in today’s competitive market.

PUSH TO THE FRONT OF THE QUEUE - Not the ‘British Way’ and in normal circumstances quite rude! But, in a market where your property is competing with hundreds of others for the attention of serious buyers, it makes sense to work with your agent to do everything possible to make sure that your property is noticed ahead of the competition. The higher the profile of your online or hard copy advertising, the better your chances – and the more places it is seen online, the better. ‘But surely all agents advertise on the Internet’ you may say. Exactly! The more reason you should make sure that your property is in the spotlight and jumps-out at buyers. Bespoke newspaper,

Visit us online: www.wilkinsongrant.co.uk

magazine or Internet advertising is very effective in getting ‘first dibs’ at the best buyers.

PUT YOUR BUSINESS HAT ON - Having selected the right agent, presented your property to the best effect, produced the best possible brochure and pushed your property to the front of the queue – take the emotion and sentiment out of the equation and look at your sale and any related purchase from a business perspective. From the outset, if it’s not on the right page of the Internet your buyer may not even see it. Of course you want to get the best price – who wouldn’t? But make sure that your price reflects what buyers are actually paying and is realistic. Don’t forget today’s buyers have access to a multitude of property and house price data and so do surveyors. If you are selling to purchase another property, the focus should be as much on the price differential between the two as it is on the actual sale or purchase price of each property.

PROPERTY & ACQUISITION AGENTS

Residential Sales, Lettings & Property Management

Exeter - Guide Price £925,000 5 Bed – 4 Bath A truly exceptional period five bedroom detached family residence situated in the heart of “old” Pennsylvania. Nestled in a quiet location, tucked away along a private road, Cobham is a spacious family home commanding spectacular panoramic views across the city, to the estuary and beyond. Offering superbly presented and versatile accommodation this property is perfectly suited to modern family living and could be easily adapted to purchasers requiring an annexe or facilities to work from home. Cobham is an exceptional detached family home with superb panoramic views across Exeter with the Exe estuary in the distance. Beautifully presented and having undergone considerable improvement by the current owners, the property offers spacious and versatile living space throughout and comprises entrance hall, superb modern fitted kitchen/ breakfast room with bi-fold doors out to the rear garden, living room with panoramic bay window, family room, music room, gym, office, utility room, two ground floor cloakrooms, five first floor bedrooms (two ensuite), family bathroom, shower room, gas central heating and double glazing where stated. Outside the property has a delightful enclosed rear garden with a raised patio providing a generous seating area. In addition to the extensive driveway parking there is a versatile garage/store with studio above providing flexible home office/games room potential. The property is situated in an enviable position offering excellent access to the City Centre and Exeter University.

For more information please call: 01392 215283 or visit www.naomijryan.co.uk

Residential Sales, Lettings & Property Management

Thorverton - Guide Price £450,000 4 Bed – 1 Bath A charming 4 / 5 bedroom semi detached house situated on the edge of this well regarded Exe Valley village. Positioned next to the local cricket ground, the property takes in delightful views across the surrounding countryside. The property has lovely and extensive gardens to the rear which offer a high level of privacy and provide a superb opportunity for keen gardeners. Well presented throughout the accommodation comprises entrance hall, ground floor cloakroom, family room, superb open plan kitchen/dining room, living room with study area, sun room, utility/workshop, four bedrooms, study/5th bedroom, family bathroom and double glazing where stated. A garage and driveway provide parking to the front of the house with further well established gardens. Thorverton is a highly sought after village positioned in the Exe Valley between Exeter and Tiverton as well as Crediton and Cullompton. Approximately 7 miles from Exeter the village has a good range of local amenities including a newly refurbished general store, primary school and two local Inns. Early internal viewing is highly recommended of this unique family home.

Visit: 23 Southernhay West, Exeter EX1 1PR or email: enquiries@naomijryan.co.uk

NYMET ROWLAND OIRO £565,000

HORSEGUARDS OIRO £525,000

An outstanding period Grade II Listed 4 bed farmhouse with detached stone and cob barn plus nearly 3 acres. 2 living rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, work room, 3 bath/shower rooms, paddocks.

REF:DWE05286

A Grade II Listed contemporary town house with views over communal parkland. Sitting room, WC, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, study/gallery, bathroom, 4 bedrooms plus master with en suite.

REF:DWE05370

BUDLEIGH SALTERTON GUIDE PRICE £525,000

BUDLEIGH SALTERTON GUIDE PRICE £765,000

An older style 3 bedroom detached house located within close walking distance of Budleigh Salterton High Street, seafront and the cliff path. The house also has a garage, ample parking and well maintained gardens. EPC=C. REF:DJB00371

A spacious modern extended 4 bedroom detached house situated down a small private driveway amidst beautiful private gardens and grounds of approximately one third of an acre. EPC=C. REF:DJB00367

01392 259395

www.whittonandlaing.com Sales / Lettings / Block Management / Chartered Surveying / Auctions

20 Queen Street, Exeter, EX4 3SN

SHOWof HANDS & Friends

invite you to a

Concert in Memory of Lily Partridge at The Exeter Corn Exchange in support of local charities

Stand Out Service Sales, Letting & Property Management 01392 493113 | info@hometrust.co.uk | www.hometrust.co.uk

Sunday 11th September 2016 Doors open 7pm for a 7.30pm start.

Tickets available from www.exetercornexchange.co.uk 01392 665938

The Exeter Foundation A fundraising body with a commitment to the future prosperity of Greater Exeter.

Topsham Rugby Club Lily’s home club, the money is to be spent on first aid provision & improving community facilities.

enquiries@exeterfoundation.org.uk www.exeterfoundation.org.uk

Tel; 01392 873651 www.topshamrugby.co.uk

Topsham RFC registered charity no: 1143121

Topsham RFC registered charity no: 1146890

WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR WHAT IS HAPPENING LOCALLY WG in OUR COMMUNITY would love to hear stories of what you are doing to make a difference in your community, particularly if you are between14-18years old.

Please share your stories on our Facebook or Twitter.

tweet us @WGOURCOMMUNITY or Facebook.com/INOURCOMMUNITY

Exeter Living

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Q&A PHOTO BY JAMES COX

EXETER LIVES

A

Answer to Where Am I? (page 13): Above L’Occitane on Exeter High Street

s an English teacher, and the daughter of a school librarian, Emma Cox was always immersed in literature. Now she’s brought a book of her own into the world – Malkin Moonlight, for 8-12 year olds – after winning The New Children’s Author Prize, a collaboration between Bloomsbury Children’s Books and The National Literacy Trust.

Luckily, she still has time to indulge in the very best of her home city. . .

Where do you call home and what makes it special?

I live in Princesshay. I love the view of the cathedral – particularly now, at night, when the arches glow with an orange light. It looks as if it keeps all the secrets of the centuries.

What’s Malkin Moonlight about?

Malkin is a cat who has to go on a journey to find out who he is and what makes him special. All the settings are based around Exeter, Topsham, Teignmouth and Starcross.

Is there a second book in the pipeline?

I’ll begin a new book this summer holiday. The thought of starting to be creative again after a year of editing appeals a lot. Kevin CrossleyHolland wrote me a beautiful email recently. He said Charles Causley always used to say to him, ‘Onward!’. I loved that.

You’re also head of English at Exeter Cathedral School – what are your favourite literary works to teach to children?

I love my job and I love the children I teach. I teach English literature all day to Years 5-8, so we cover a lot. However, some of my favourites are: Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth, Bog Child by Siobhan Dowd, A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness, Northern Lights by Philip Pullman, Arthur and his Seeing Stone by Kevin Crossley-Holland, Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by TS Eliot, and the poetry of Ted Hughes, Charles Causley and Seamus Heaney.

What was your favourite book when you were a child?

Where The Wild Things Are – Maurice Sendak.

EMMA COX The Exeter Cathedral School teacher and children’s author loves Shakespeare and a pint at the Double Locks What’s the one song that’ll get you up on the dancefloor?

Anything by David Guetta. Every year I go on holiday with my friend Katherine and we always dance to Guetta at night on the beach under the palm trees. We always say we won’t end up in the sea wearing our dresses and we always do.

What has been your proudest moment?

I’d say being sent the first copy of my book and opening the envelope and holding it in my hand.

It arrived when I got home from Sports Day feeling really tired. I turned full circle and perked right up.

What’s your earliest childhood memory?

Crying about a fox hunt I could see from my back garden up on the hills in Tetbury. That and my sister getting a leech stuck to her leg.

If your nearest and dearest had to describe you, what would they say?

Hopefully that I’m kind. That’s all I want to be, really.

What issue, more than any other, makes you want to get up on a soapbox?

Human rights abuse.

74 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk

What are your favourite places to eat and drink in Exeter?

At present, I’m going to Southernhay House a lot because I love the garden and it’s a good place to do writing. I also love Rendezvous, The Double Locks, Samuel Jones, The Well, The Ship, Wagamama, The Port Royal, The Lighter Inn, The Passage House in Topsham, and The Anchor in Cockwood.

Where in the nearby countryside do you like to go to escape the hustle and bustle of town life?

My parents’ house in Dartmoor. It’s so quiet you just hear owls hooting by night and buzzards pewing by day.

What’s your favourite indulgence?

Those big pizzas at On The Waterfront, and a pint in the sunshine at The Double Locks.

We’d better let you get on… What are you doing right after this?

I’m finishing a book review for the TES, packing up 20 books I just signed for my publisher, and then going to bed. bloomsbury.com/author/emma-cox Twitter: @emmaexeter

52 Southside St, The Barbican, Plymouth PL1 2LB | 01752 228 451 | www.samcoxbridalwear.co.uk