Jul aug16

COTSWOLD

PR EVIEW July–August 2016

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1 Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16 YOUR ESSENTIAL monthly GUIDE TO the cotswolds

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THEBIGFEASTIVAL.COM JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

welcome …to the July– August issue of Cotswold Preview.

Summer ushers in a wealth of outdoor events across the Cotswolds: music and food festivals, horse trials, country fairs, opera and theatre productions. Take your pick. At these events, the show goes on pretty much whatever the weather – but it’s a special treat when the sun gods are smiling. We bring you the highlights of these and the area’s other cultural activities in our bumper What’s On section, on pages 13–84.

With a nod to the summer, we also explore the topic of kitchen gardens and bring you four of our favourite destinations for afternoon tea – places where the experience counts for as much as the food itself. And, as always, our Editor’s Choice and Expert Comment pages feature seasonal products and services from those independent businesses which help keep our local communities and high streets interesting.

People in the spotlight in this issue include the new High Sheriff of Gloucestershire, Countess Bathurst; John Baugh, Headmaster of the renowned Dragon School in Oxford; and Talia Maddison, whose catering company Cotswold Cooks is a local success story.

We hope you enjoy the magazine and wish you all a relaxing summer,

The Cotswold Preview team food & drink feature… A TEATIME EXPERIENCE

gardens feature… GOURMET GARDENS

ATeatime

Gourmet

Experience

Gardens

Here, we present our selection of four of the Cotswolds’ most characterful settings in which to enjoy afternoon tea…

Whether you’re growing herbs in a pot or planting an elaborate potager, the feeling of achievement can be just as enjoyable as the tasty crops themselves. On the following pages, leading garden designers from across Cotswold provide their tips for successful kitchen gardening…

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 1

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The kitchen garden at Cogges Manor Farm

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JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

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Cover image: William Fox-Pitt competing at last year’s NAF Five Star Hartpury International Horse Trials on Bay My Hero. Hartpury International Horse Trials 2016 is from 10–14 August at Hartpury College in Gloucestershire: GL19 3BE / hartpuryhorsetrials.co.uk

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

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CONTENTS JULY– AUGUST 16

in this issue...

60 what’s on

57

14

july–august diary

48

what’s on features

65

exhibition in the spotlight

68

july–august listings

property & home 86

property feature: eco living

90

highlighted properties

106 editor’s choice: interiors 108 gardens feature: gourmet gardens 114 garden design tips… by Fi Boyle

114

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106 JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

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CONTENTS JULY– AUGUST 16

153

144 family matters 118 editor’s choice: children’s selection 120 school reports 121 school profile: dragon school, oxford 124 family matters feature: talking the talk 130 books recommended by… madhatter bookshop

157

132 family matters comment: Richmond, Witney

style & lifestyle 136 editor’s choice: fashion & beauty 137 expert comment: holiday style 140 editor’s choice: food & drink 141 food & drink feature: a teatime experience 146 food review: catering for young diners 148 inn profile: the inn at fossebridge 150 chef profile: Talia Maddison 152 the Preview interview: Countess Bathurst 156 venue of the month: matara 159 specialist business profile: qetty bang bang

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JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

Experience

Aston Pottery & Gardens EXPLORE

EAT

SHOP

EXPERIENCE

Gardens

Country Café

Shopping

Working Pottery

Walk the 72m double hornbeam path full of summer perennials, or view over 130 dahlias in the seasons border. Stroll along the great border bursting with life and colour, or visit the new annual border, busy with over 120 annuals competing for the sun and your attention.

Take a break in our spacious Country Café, which serves a wide variety of delicious food, cooked daily in our kitchen using traditional Oxfordshire recipes. Taste our stunning savoury pies and flans – try our sweet homemade biscuits and some of the best cakes you will ever taste!

Our award-winning showroom displays all our pottery patterns under one roof – 140 in total – some over 20 years old and still going strong. Also on display are a carefully selected range of contemporary gifts for family and friends including jewellery, bags, textiles and much, much more.

Our pottery is designed and made on-site using 300 year old mouldmaking and slip-casting techniques for teapot and jug production. It is hand-decorated by our team of specialist painters. Come and have a tour of the pottery and see for yourself how it is all done.

Opening Hours 7 days a week, Monday to Saturday 9am-5pm, Sundays 10.30am-5pm Bank Holidays 9am-5pm We are a 5 minute drive from Witney on the B4449 between Standlake and Bampton.

Aston Pottery, Kingsway Farm, Bampton Road, Aston, Oxfordshire OX18 2BT Visit us on Facebook to see our latest designs and displays: www.facebook.com/AstonPottery

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

www.astonpottery.co.uk or call 01993 852031 9

Editor’s Choice… FOOD & DRINK

Cotswold

PREVIEW

We have been hearing very good things about the food at the recently opened Gainsborough Hotel in Bath. The hotel has partnered with the Michelin starred German chef Johann Lafer, who lends his name to the restaurant and oversees an innovative menu. The dishes follow his ‘dining without borders’ approach of exploring diverse influences, ingredients and cooking techniques.

Well worth a visit. The Gainsborough Bath Spa: 01225 358888 / BA1 1QY / thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

Editor’s Choice

Our top food and drink selection for the summer…

If you have sampled any of The Cotswolds Distillery’s award winning spirits, such as its Cotswolds Dry Gin, you may be interested to learn that there are daily guided tours of the distillery, based near Shipston-onStour, at which you can learn more about every aspect of the craft. The distillery is also planning VIP tours, during which a master distiller will help visitors concoct their very own gin recipe. The Cotswolds Distillery: 01608 238533 / CV36 5HT / cotswoldsdistillery.com

Contributing Writer Sally Bult editorial@guidemedia.co.uk Sales Manager, Central & South Cotswolds Lucy Dowie lucy@guidemedia.co.uk Sales Manager, Cheltenham & North Cotswolds Helen Edwards helen@cotswoldpreview.co.uk

Allomorphic in Stroud is garden designer Paul Hervey-Brookes’ retail showroom, where – in addition to all the gardening essentials – you can find lots of delicious loose leaf teas, tea pots, cups, strainers and gadgetry. The teas include blends by the herbal specialist Jekka McVikka for Cantons Tea Company, such as her Organic British Forager’s Blend and Organic Tulsi. There is also an in-store ‘Tea Experience’ on most Fridays and Saturdays at which you can sample a selection of Allomorphic’s specialist teas, served with cakes and biscuits: GL5 1BB / allomorphic.co.uk

The raw food and juice café The Core Cheltenham is a great place to go for some healthy eating inspiration. If you are looking to really kick-start your body, you can also sign up to one of its Juice Programmes which vary in length from just one day to a month or more. The Core Cheltenham: 01242 224898 / GL52 6HU / thecorecheltenham.com

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JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

Living

ECO

Sales Manager, Oxfordshire Cotswolds Joanna Bolton jo@cotswoldpreview.co.uk Design & Production Eve Bodniece eve@guidemedia.co.uk Managing Editor & Director Eleanor Chadwick eleanor@guidemedia.co.uk

Eco-friendly homes have two key benefits: a reduced carbon footprint and lower energy bills.

What’s not to like? Here, Sally Bult considers some of the best ways to go about making your home more energy efficient…

With many thanks to Preview’s Advisory Panel

Sporn Construction

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JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

Cotswold Preview is published by: Guide Media Ltd. Registered office: 2 Westgate, Shipton-under-Wychwood, Oxfordshire OX7 6DG tel: 01993 833239 www.guidemedia.co.uk

Any comments should be directed to the publisher in writing to the above address.

Cotswold Preview is designed to celebrate the best of what’s on and what’s new across the Cotswolds.

We aim to inform and inspire our readers through the highest standards of journalism and design and to work closely with our advertisers to maximise their opportunity for response.

Talking

theTALK

Just the thought of public speaking may fill many grown-ups with dread, but effective communication is a life skill that improves with practice and can be mastered from an early age. Here, we highlight a selection of the Cotswolds’ leading schools at which there are opportunities for pupils to develop and refine their verbal prowess…

GARDEN DESIGN TIPS

by Fi Boyle

Public speaking at Malvern College

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JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

© All rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced without the written permission of Guide Media. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any material supplied for publication or to edit such material prior to publication. All material is sent at the owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, Guide Media will not accept liability for loss or damage. The opinions expressed in this publication are the views of the individual authors. Guide Media suggests that further guidance is taken before acting on any information given and, in particular, strongly advises viewing any property prior to financial decisions. Cotswold Preview ISSN:2044 9267 EXTENDING YOUR BORDERS’ SEASON OF INTEREST Garden designer Fi Boyle provides her professional advice on how to create a garden that is low maintenance yet has interest throughout the year…

Please recycle this magazine when you have finished with it.

10

The thing I get asked for most by my clients is a garden that has a long season of interest and a low level of maintenance. With careful planning, this is possible to achieve. However, there is no such thing as no maintenance and it is often the small amount of maintenance that brings longevity to a garden, particularly where perennials are concerned.

114

When planning a garden, each plant regardless of its type has to earn its place. What does it bring to the garden and how/when does it die back? This is key if you want to have a garden that has interest throughout the year.

A well planned border should have something to catch your eye from really early on in the year

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

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JOHN NOOTT Galleries F I N E NOOTT PA I N T I N G S & W OGalleries RKS OF ART JOHN JOHN NOOTT Galleries

JOHN NOOTT Galleries F I N E PA INTINGS & WO RKS OF ART F I N E PA I N T I N G S & W O R K S O F A R T F I N E PA I N T I N G S & W O R K S O F A R T

Tom Walker Still lives run deep

Roger Dellar Chefs

Throughout July, John Noott Galleries will be showing work by selected

Tom Walker Still lives Dellar Chefs Members ofrun thedeep The Pastel Society, manyRoger of whom are new to the gallery.

Tom Still lives run deep TonyWalker Allain Cape Cod boardwalk Tom Walker Still lives run deep

Roger Dellar Chefs

Roger Dellarof Chefs We haveThroughout illustrated anJuly, example each artist, but the remainder their work be seen on the JohnbyNoott Galleries will be showing work bycan selected Exhibitions page of our website www.john-noott.com.

Members ofJuly, theJuly, The Pastel Society, many of whom are new toselected theselected gallery.

Throughout John Noott Galleries will be showing work by Throughout the summer, John Noott Galleries will work by members Throughout John Noott Galleries willbe beshowing showing work by of The Pastel Society, many of whom are new to the gallery.

Members of the The Pastel Society, many of whom are new to the gallery.

Work may be taken away/shipped as soon as it is sold.

Members of the The Pastel Society, many of whom are new to the gallery.

We have illustrated an example by each artist, but the remainder of their work can be seen on the Please contactExhibitions the galleryby if each youof have or would make purchase. page ourany website www.john-noott.com.

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We have illustrated an example by each artist, but the remainder of their work can be seen on the Exhibitions page of our website www.john-noott.com.

The Pastel Society (PS) is a may registered charity, widely recognised forit its success in promoting and Work be taken away/shipped as soon as is sold.

Exhibitions page of our website www.john-noott.com.

Work may taken away/shipped asor soon as itlike is sold. encouraging the use of pastelthe within thebe contemporary world.

The Society was founded in 1898 and its first Please contact gallery if you have any art queries would to make a purchase.

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Please the gallery ifPiccadilly. you have any queries or would likeitto a purchase. exhibition was held in thecontact Royal Founder members and early exhibitors included Brangwyn, The Pastel Society (PS) is a registered charity, widely recognised for its success in promoting and Please contact the gallery if you have any queries or would like to make a purchase.

Degas, Rodin, and G.F.Watts.

There arerecognised currently over 50success members who are all professional TheRothenstein, Pastel SocietyWhistler (PS) is a registered charity, widely for its in promoting and encouraging the use of pastel within the contemporary art world.

The Society was founded in 1898 and its first artists living and working in thiswithin country overseas. Membership granted strict assessment of encouraging the use of pastel theand contemporary art world.

The is Society wasthrough foundedain in 1898 and its first The Pastel Society is aInstitute registered charity, widely recognised for early its success promoting and exhibition was held in the(PS) Royal in Piccadilly.

Founder members and exhibitors included Brangwyn, technical skill, originality, innovation and enthusiasm. exhibition was held in the Royal Institute in Piccadilly. Founder members and early exhibitors included Brangwyn, encouraging theRothenstein, use of pastel within the Theover Society was founded in 1898 and its first Degas, Rodin, Whistler and contemporary G.F.Watts. Thereart areworld. currently 50 members who are all professional Degas, Rodin, Rothenstein, Whistler and G.F.Watts. There are currently over 50 members who are all professional exhibition was held inworking the Royal Institute in and Piccadilly.

Founder members and early exhibitors included Brangwyn, artists living and in this country overseas.

Membership is granted through a strict assessment of artists living and working in this country and overseas. Membership is granted through a strict assessment of Degas, Rodin, Rothenstein, Whistler and G.F.Watts.

There are currently over 50 members who are all professional technical skill, originality, innovation and enthusiasm. technical skill, originality, innovation and enthusiasm.

artists living and working in this country and overseas. Membership is granted through a strict assessment of technical skill, originality, innovation and enthusiasm.

Michael Norman High tide Polperro

Jeannette Hayes Orange walk

Gallery open Monday – Saturday: 9.30am – 1pmHayes and 2pm – 5pm, Sunday: 11am – 5pm Michael Norman Highdaily: tide Polperro Jeannette Orange walk Michael Norman High tide Polperro Jeannette Hayes Orange walk 10 The Green, Broadway, Worcestershire WR12 7AA | 01386 85 89 69 | bm@john-noott.com Gallery open daily: Monday – Saturday: 9.30am – 1pm and 2pm – 5pm, Sunday: 11am – 5pm

Gallery open daily: Monday Saturday: – 1pm and 2pm – 5pm, Sunday: 11am – 5pm Full details can– be found on9.30am our website www.john-noott.com

10 TheHigh Green, Broadway, 7AA | 01386 85 89 69 | bm@john-noott.com Michael Norman tide PolperroWorcestershire WR12Jeannette Hayes Orange walk

John Noott Galleries, 10 The Green,7AA Broadway, Worcs 10 The Green, Broadway, Worcestershire WR12 | 01386 85 WR12 89 697AA | bm@john-noott.com www.john-noott.com 01386 858969 bm@john-noott.com

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Gallery open daily: Monday – Saturday: 9.30am – 1pm and 2pm – 5pm, Sunday: 11am – 5pm Own Art making art affordable 10 The Green, Broadway, Worcestershire WR12 7AA | 01386 85 89 69 | bm@john-noott.com

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

Own Art making art affordable

www.john-noott.com

Own Art making art affordable

what’s on

What’s on diary 14 What’s on features 48 Exhibition in the spotlight 65 What’s on listings 68 Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

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Exhibitions & Auctions on form at Asthall Manor, Asthall, near Burford American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath The Brass Monkey Group exhibition at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Line & Surface at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Neil Canning exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

Performing Arts

Asthall Manor

1

July

Friday

In the Footsteps of the Mitfords at Asthall Manor, 7pm That’ll Be The Day at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Le Nozze di Figaro at Longborough Festival Opera, 5pm

Events Cheltenham Music Festival Nibley Music Festival, near Dursley Oxford Festival of the Arts Oliver Cox talk at Wootton Village Hall, near Woodstock

Exhibitions & Auctions on form at Asthall Manor, Asthall, near Burford American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath The Brass Monkey Group exhibition at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Line & Surface at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Neil Canning exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney The Cotswold Show

2

July

saturday

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Performing Arts The Magic Flute at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm That’ll Be The Day at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm

Events The Cotswold Show & Food Festival at Cirencester Park Nibley Music Festival Taynton Fête *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions on form at Asthall Manor, Asthall, near Burford American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway The Brass Monkey Group exhibition at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway A Greek in Egypt at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Simon Lewty exhibition at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Harry Marshall & Zanna Goldhawk exhibition at Prema, Uley Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

Ablington Manor

Performing Arts John Mills: Sheller’s Guitar at The Theatre, Chipping Norton, 3pm

Events Open Garden at Ablington Manor, near Bibury Cheltenham Music Festival The Cotswold Show & Food Festival at Cirencester Park Extreme Life Drawing workshop at Prema, Uley

3

July

sunday

Exhibitions & Auctions on form at Asthall Manor, Asthall, near Burford A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford A Greek in Egypt at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Neil Canning exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Harry Marshall & Zanna Goldhawk exhibition at Prema, Uley Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

The Stour Gallery

Performing Arts Present Laughter at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Midsummer Night’s Dream at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm The Alchemist at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm A Midsummer Night’s Dream at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm

Events Cheltenham Music Festival *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

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July

monday

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Exhibitions & Auctions on form at Asthall Manor, Asthall, near Burford American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Indulgence: Daily Delights of Georgian Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford A Greek in Egypt at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Neil Canning exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

Performing Arts Witney Antiques

5

July

tuesday

Present Laughter at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Magic Flute at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm Midsummer Night’s Dream at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Le Nozze di Figaro at Longborough Festival Opera, 5pm The Alchemist at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events Cheltenham Music Festival

Exhibitions & Auctions

The Stour Gallery

on form at Asthall Manor, Asthall, near Burford American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Neil Canning exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Harry Marshall & Zanna Goldhawk exhibition at Prema, Uley Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

Performing Arts

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July

wednesday

16

Present Laughter at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Midsummer Night’s Dream at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm WiFi Wars at The Theatre, Chipping Norton, 7pm Doctor Faustus at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events Cheltenham Music Festival Hartpury Festival of Dressage at Hartpury College, near Gloucester *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions on form at Asthall Manor, Asthall, near Burford American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

Performing Arts Midsummer Night’s Dream at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm Twelfth Night at Lister Hall, Dursley, 7:30pm Le Nozze di Figaro at Longborough Festival Opera, 5pm The Alchemist at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events Sunset deer park walk at Dyrham Park, near Bath Cheltenham Music Festival BBC Gardeners’ World talk at Barnsley House, Cirencester Hartpury Festival of Dressage at Hartpury College, near Gloucester

Hartpury College

7

July

thursday

Exhibitions & Auctions on form at Asthall Manor, Asthall, near Burford American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Antiques, Books & Wine auction at Moore Allen & Innocent, Cirencester Neil Canning exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

Cornbury Festival

Performing Arts The Magic Flute at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm Twelfth Night at Lister Hall, Dursley, 7:30pm A Midsummer Night’s Dream at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm

Events Cheltenham Music Festival Cornbury Festival at Great Tew Park, near Chipping Norton Hartpury Festival of Dressage at Hartpury College, near Gloucester The Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, near Lechlade *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

8

July

friday

17

Exhibitions & Auctions

Cornbury Festival

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Neil Canning exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

Performing Arts

9

July

saturday

The Magic Flute at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm Twelfth Night at Lister Hall, Dursley, 7:30pm Doctor Faustus at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events Cheltenham Music Festival Cornbury Festival at Great Tew Park, near Chipping Norton Hartpury Festival of Dressage at Hartpury College, near Gloucester The Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, near Lechlade

Exhibitions & Auctions

Hartpury College

on form at Asthall Manor, Asthall, near Burford American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Ursula Lawley exhibition at Old Mill Gallery, Devizes Simon Lewty exhibition at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Harry Marshall & Zanna Goldhawk exhibition at Prema, Uley Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

Performing Arts Stornoway live music at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

10 July

sunday

18

Events Cheltenham Music Festival Bands in the Park across Cheltenham Cornbury Festival at Great Tew Park, near Chipping Norton Hartpury Festival of Dressage at Hartpury College, near Gloucester The Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, near Lechlade *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford A Greek in Egypt at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Best of the South West at Pound Arts, Corsham Ursula Lawley exhibition at Old Mill Gallery, Devizes Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Neil Canning exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Harry Marshall & Zanna Goldhawk exhibition at Prema, Uley Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

Performing Arts A Midsummer Night’s Dream at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Doctor Faustus at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events Cheltenham Music Festival Oliver film showing at The Theatre, Chipping Norton

SOTA Gallery

11 July

monday

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Alison Vickery exhibition at New Brewery Arts Pop-Up Gallery, Cirencester Ursula Lawley exhibition at Old Mill Gallery, Devizes Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Neil Canning exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Harry Marshall & Zanna Goldhawk exhibition at Prema, Uley Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

New Brewery Arts

Performing Arts The Magic Flute at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm The Sound of Music at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm A Midsummer Night’s Dream at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Alchemist at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events Cheltenham Music Festival *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

12 July

tuesday

19

Exhibitions & Auctions

The Stour Gallery

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Alison Vickery exhibition at New Brewery Arts Pop Up Gallery, Cirencester Ursula Lawley exhibition at Old Mill Gallery, Devizes Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Neil Canning exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

Performing Arts

13 July

wednesday

The Sound of Music at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm My Kingdom For A Horse at Everyman Studio Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:45pm The Alchemist at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Daisy Pulls It Off! at The Bear Pit Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events Cheltenham Music Festival The Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival at Cheltenham College

Exhibitions & Auctions

Museum in the Park

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Harry Marshall & Zanna Goldhawk exhibition at Prema, Uley Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

Performing Arts

14 July

thursday

20

The Sound of Music at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm The Comedy of Errors at Leckhampton Court Hospice, Cheltenham 6:30pm A Midsummer Night’s Dream at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Daisy Pulls It Off! at The Bear Pit Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events Cheltenham Music Festival The Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival at Cheltenham College Gloucester Classical Music Festival *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Neil Canning exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

Performing Arts The Magic Flute at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm The Sound of Music at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm The Comedy of Errors at Leckhampton Court Hospice, Cheltenham 6:30pm

Events Cheltenham Music Festival The Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival at Cheltenham College Gloucester Classical Music Festival The Stratford-upon-Avon Home & Garden Show

Witney Antiques

15 July

friday

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Neil Canning exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

The Stratford-upon-Avon Home & Garden Show

Performing Arts The Magic Flute at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm The Sound of Music at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Jenu ˚fa at Longborough Festival Opera, 5pm

Events Cheltenham Music Festival The Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival at Cheltenham College Gloucester Classical Music Festival The Stratford-upon-Avon Home & Garden Show *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

16 July

saturday

21

Exhibitions & Auctions

The Stratford-upon-Avon Home & Garden Show

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Alison Vickery exhibition at New Brewery Arts Pop-Up Gallery, Cirencester Ursula Lawley exhibition at Old Mill Gallery, Devizes Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Harry Marshall & Zanna Goldhawk exhibition at Prema, Uley Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney

Performing Arts Moon Princess at The Egg, Theatre Royal, Bath, 11:30am The Comedy of Errors at Cheltenham Town Hall, 4pm Robin Hood at Cathedral of the Forest, Newland, Forest of Dean, 6pm

17 July

sunday

Events Cheltenham Music Festival The Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival at Cheltenham College Gloucester Classical Music Festival The Stratford-upon-Avon Home & Garden Show NGS Open Day at Westonbirt House & Gardens, near Tetbury

Exhibitions & Auctions

SOTA Gallery

A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Alison Vickery exhibition at New Brewery Arts Pop-Up Gallery, Cirencester Ursula Lawley exhibition at Old Mill Gallery, Devizes Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Harry Marshall & Zanna Goldhawk exhibition at Prema, Uley Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney

Performing Arts

18 July

monday

22

While the Sun Shines at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Sound of Music at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm The Comedy of Errors at Syde Manor, Cheltenham 7:30pm Doctor Faustus at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Mrs Shakespeare at The Bear Pit Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 8pm

Events The Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival at Cheltenham College Gloucester Classical Music Festival *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford 10th Anniversary Celebration sale at Chorley’s, near Cheltenham Alison Vickery exhibition at New Brewery Arts Pop Up Gallery, Cirencester Ursula Lawley exhibition at Old Mill Gallery, Devizes Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Harry Marshall & Zanna Goldhawk exhibition at Prema, Uley

Auction at Chorley’s

Performing Arts The Sound of Music at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Jenu ˚fa at Longborough Festival Opera, 5pm Hamlet at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Mrs Shakespeare at The Bear Pit Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 8pm The Comedy of Errors at Owlpen Manor, near Uley, 6:30pm

Events The Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival at Cheltenham College Gloucester Classical Music Festival

19 July

tuesday

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Alison Vickery exhibition at New Brewery Arts Pop-Up Gallery, Cirencester Best of the South West at Pound Arts, Corsham Ursula Lawley exhibition at Old Mill Gallery, Devizes Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud

Performing Arts The Sound of Music at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Robin Hood at Cowley Manor, Cheltenham, 7pm As You Like It at Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm The Alchemist at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Mrs Shakespeare at The Bear Pit Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 8pm The Comedy of Errors at Owlpen Manor, near Uley, 6:30pm

Events The Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival at Cheltenham College Gloucester Classical Music Festival *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

Gallery Pangolin

20 July

wednesday

23

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Alison Vickery exhibition at New Brewery Arts Pop-Up Gallery, Cirencester Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud

Performing Arts New Brewery Arts

21 July

thursday

While the Sun Shines at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Sound of Music at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Murder on the Terrace at Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Jenu ˚fa at Longborough Festival Opera, 5pm Hamlet at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Mrs Shakespeare at The Bear Pit Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 8pm

Events Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon at The Fox Inn, Barrington Excavations in Bourton-on-the-Water talk at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Gloucester Classical Music Festival

Exhibitions & Auctions

The Deanery Garden

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Antique & General auction at Moore Allen & Innocent, Cirencester Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud

Performing Arts Divine Comedies double bill at The Deanery Garden, Bampton, 7pm The Sound of Music at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Robin Hood at Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm The Comedy of Errors at Rococo Gardens, Stroud, 6:30pm Doctor Faustus at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

22 July

friday

24

Events Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon at The Fox Inn, Barrington 46th Guiting Music Festival, Guiting Power UK Game Fair at the NAEC, Stoneleigh Cotswold Beer Festival at Postlip Tithe Barn, near Winchcombe *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud

The Stour Gallery

Performing Arts Robin Hood at St Augustine’s Farm, Arlingham, 7pm Divine Comedies double bill at The Deanery Garden, Bampton, 7pm A Fairy Queen at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm The Sound of Music at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Jenu ˚fa at Longborough Festival Opera, 5pm

Events Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon at The Fox Inn, Barrington Three Choirs Festival, Gloucester 46th Guiting Music Festival, Guiting Power UK Game Fair at the NAEC, Stoneleigh Cotswold Beer Festival at Postlip Tithe Barn, near Winchcombe

23 July

saturday

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Awakenings: Ancient Themes, New Perspectives at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Ursula Lawley exhibition at Old Mill Gallery, Devizes Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud

UK Game Fair

Performing Arts The Comedy of Errors at The Dell, RSC Gardens, Stratford-upon-Avon, 3pm

Events Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon at The Fox Inn, Barrington The Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival at Cheltenham College Bands in the Park across Cheltenham Three Choirs Festival, Gloucester 46th Guiting Music Festival, Guiting Power UK Game Fair at the NAEC, Stoneleigh Cotswold Beer Festival at Postlip Tithe Barn, near Winchcombe *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

24 July

sunday

25

Exhibitions & Auctions A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Awakenings: Ancient Themes, New Perspectives at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Ursula Lawley exhibition at Old Mill Gallery, Devizes Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Harry Marshall & Zanna Goldhawk exhibition at Prema, Uley

Performing Arts The Elemental Sculpture Park

25 July

monday

While the Sun Shines at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Hamlet at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Alchemist at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon at The Fox Inn, Barrington Cirencester Children’s Book Week Three Choirs Festival, Gloucester 46th Guiting Music Festival, Guiting Power

Exhibitions & Auctions

The Stour Gallery

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway David Constantine: Between the Thorns at The Theatre, Chipping Norton Awakenings: Ancient Themes, New Perspectives at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Ursula Lawley exhibition at Old Mill Gallery, Devizes Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud

Performing Arts While the Sun Shines at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Cymbeline at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Alchemist at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

26 July

tuesday

26

Events Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon at The Fox Inn, Barrington Cirencester Children’s Book Week Three Choirs Festival, Gloucester 46th Guiting Music Festival, Guiting Power *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Ursula Lawley exhibition at Old Mill Gallery, Devizes Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud

American Museum in Britain

Performing Arts While the Sun Shines at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm A Fairy Queen at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Cymbeline at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Doctor Faustus at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 9:15pm

Events Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon at The Fox Inn, Barrington Cirencester Children’s Book Week Three Choirs Festival, Gloucester 46th Guiting Music Festival, Guiting Power

27 July

wednesday

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Indulgence: Daily Delights of Georgian Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud

Performing Arts While the Sun Shines at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Danny, Champion of the World at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham, 7pm Robin Hood at Westonbirt School, near Tetbury, 7pm Cymbeline at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 1:15pm Hamlet at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 9:15pm

Events Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon at The Fox Inn, Barrington Cirencester Children’s Book Week Three Choirs Festival, Gloucester 46th Guiting Music Festival, Guiting Power *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

Sarah Wiseman Gallery

28 July

thursday

27

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud John Noott Galleries

Performing Arts While the Sun Shines at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm A Fairy Queen at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm Gulliver’s Travels at Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm The Alchemist at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

29 July

friday

Events Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon at The Fox Inn, Barrington Stubbs and the Wild study afternoon at Holburne Museum, Bath Cirencester Children’s Book Week Three Choirs Festival, Gloucester 46th Guiting Music Festival, Guiting Power

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud American Museum in Britain

Performing Arts While the Sun Shines at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm A Fairy Queen at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm The Picture of Dorian Gray at Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Alcina at Longborough Festival Opera, 5pm Hamlet at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 1:15pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

30 July

saturday

28

Events Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon at The Fox Inn, Barrington Cirencester Children’s Book Week Three Choirs Festival, Gloucester 46th Guiting Music Festival, Guiting Power *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth Harry Marshall & Zanna Goldhawk exhibition at Prema, Uley

Performing Arts Alcina at Longborough Festival Opera, 3pm Dotty the Dragon at Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Cheltenham, 5pm

Events Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon at The Fox Inn, Barrington Bands in the Park across Cheltenham Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral 46th Guiting Music Festival, Guiting Power

The Elemental Sculpture Park

31 July

sunday

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Indulgence: Daily Delights of Georgian Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham David Constantine: Between the Thorns at The Theatre, Chipping Norton Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes

The Stour Gallery

Performing Arts Cymbeline at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Alchemist at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Northanger Abbey at Stoneleigh Abbey, Kenilworth, 7:30pm

Events Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon at The Fox Inn, Barrington Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral The Big Batsford Bug Hunt! at Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

1

AUGUST monday

29

Exhibitions & Auctions

Sarah Wiseman Gallery

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts

2

AUGUST tuesday

A Fairy Queen at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm Alcina at Longborough Festival Opera, 5pm Hamlet at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Alchemist at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 9:15pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral

Exhibitions & Auctions

Victoria Art Gallery

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts

3

AUGUST

wednesday

30

A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm A Fairy Queen at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm The Tailor of Gloucester at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7pm Rome & Juliet at Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Hamlet at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Alchemist at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 1:30pm Fall of the Kingdom at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Countryfile Live

Performing Arts A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Tailor of Gloucester at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7pm Doctor Faustus at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 9:15pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Wilderness Festival at Cornbury Park, Charlbury Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon in Frampton-on-Severn Countryfile Live at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock

4

AUGUST thursday

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes

American Museum in Britain

Performing Arts A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Tailor of Gloucester at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 7pm Around the World in 80 Days at Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Cheltenham, 7:30pm Cymbeline at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Wilderness Festival at Cornbury Park, Charlbury Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon in Frampton-on-Severn The Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe Park, Minchinhampton Gloucestershire Vintage & Country Extravaganza at South Cerney Airfield Countryfile Live at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

5

AUGUST friday

31

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes

Countryfile Live

Performing Arts The Final Fling at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 7:30pm The Tailor of Gloucester at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 6pm Robin Hood at The Lakes by Yoo, near Lechlade, 3pm Hamlet at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm

Events

6

AUGUST saturday

Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Wilderness Festival at Cornbury Park, Charlbury Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon in Frampton-on-Severn The Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe Park, Minchinhampton Gloucestershire Vintage & Country Extravaganza at South Cerney Airfield Introduction to Pastels workshop at Waterperry Gardens, Wheatley Countryfile Live at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts Westrock at The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, 7:30pm

Events The Elemental Sculpture Park

7

AUGUST sunday

32

Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Wilderness Festival at Cornbury Park, Charlbury Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon in Frampton-on-Severn Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral The Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe Park, Minchinhampton Gloucestershire Vintage & Country Extravaganza at South Cerney Airfield Countryfile Live at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Indulgence: Daily Delights of Georgian Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon

Cotswold Wildlife Park

Performing Arts A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Hamlet at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Fall of the Kingdom at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 9:15pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon in Frampton-on-Severn Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral The Big Batsford Bug Hunt! at Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh

8

AUGUST monday

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth Oxfordshire in 50 Objects at The Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

John Noott Galleries

Performing Arts A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Hamlet at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Fall of the Kingdom at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral The Big Batsford Bug Hunt! at Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

9

AUGUST tuesday

33

Exhibitions & Auctions

Hartpury College

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Indulgence: Daily Delights of Georgian Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts

10

AUGUST

wednesday

A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Hamlet at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 9:15pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford The NAF International Hartpury Horse Trials at Hartpury College, Gloucester Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes A Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth Oxfordshire in 50 Objects at The Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock John Noott Galleries

11

AUGUST thursday

34

Performing Arts A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Cymbeline at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Fall of the Kingdom at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm Gulliver’s Travels at Newark Park, Wotton-under-Edge, 6:30pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford International Hartpury Horse Trials at Hartpury College, near Gloucester Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Minchinhampton Common *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Antique & General auction at Moore Allen & Innocent, Cirencester Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

The Elemental Sculpture Park

Performing Arts A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Cymbeline at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Joanne at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford International Hartpury Horse Trials at Hartpury College, near Gloucester Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Minchinhampton Common

12

AUGUST friday

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Cheltenham Lido, 8:15pm Hamlet at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 3:15pm Wizard of Oz at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Stratford-upon-Avon, 3:30pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford International Hartpury Horse Trials at Hartpury College, near Gloucester Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Minchinhampton Common *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

RSC Theatre

13

AUGUST saturday

35

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Indulgence: Daily Delights of Georgian Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth Oxfordshire in 50 Objects at The Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

Performing Arts Musicke in the Ayre at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 3pm The Elemental Sculpture Park

14

AUGUST sunday

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford International Hartpury Horse Trials at Hartpury College, near Gloucester Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Minchinhampton Common The Big Batsford Bug Hunt! at Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh

Exhibitions & Auctions

Cotswold Wildlife Park

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Indulgence: Daily Delights of Georgian Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon

Performing Arts A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 9:15pm

15

AUGUST monday

36

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Minchinhampton Common The Big Batsford Bug Hunt! at Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

John Noott Galleries

Performing Arts A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm Josh Widdicombe live comedy at The Theatre, Chipping Norton, 7:45pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Minchinhampton Common

16

AUGUST tuesday

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth Oxfordshire in 50 Objects at The Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

Performing Arts A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Minchinhampton Common *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

American Museum in Britain

17

AUGUST

wednesday

37

Exhibitions & Auctions

John Noott Galleries

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth Oxfordshire in 50 Objects at The Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

Performing Arts

18

AUGUST thursday

A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 9:15pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Minchinhampton Common

Exhibitions & Auctions

Victoria Art Gallery

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts

19

AUGUST friday

38

A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Minchinhampton Common *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design at Cheltenham College Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm King Lear at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Minchinhampton Common

Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design

20

AUGUST saturday

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Indulgence: Daily Delights of Georgian Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design at Cheltenham College Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Oxfordshire in 50 Objects at The Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

The Elemental Sculpture Park

Performing Arts Gloucester Waites live music at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, 3pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Bands in the Park across Cheltenham Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Minchinhampton Common The Big Batsford Bug Hunt! at Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

21

AUGUST sunday

39

Exhibitions & Auctions

Celebration of Craftsmnship & design

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design at Cheltenham College Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts

22

AUGUST monday

King Lear at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 9:15pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Minchinhampton Common

Exhibitions & Auctions

RSC Swan Theatre

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Indulgence: Daily Delights of Georgian Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design at Cheltenham College Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts

23

AUGUST tuesday

40

King Lear at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth Oxfordshire in 50 Objects at The Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

Performing Arts King Lear at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, Burford Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design at Cheltenham College

24

Victoria Art Gallery

AUGUST

wednesday

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design at Cheltenham College Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts The Hound of the Baskervilles at The Egg, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7pm The Wind in the Willows at Frampton Court, Frampton-on-Severn, 6:30pm King Lear at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 9:15pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Marlborough Common *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

John Noott Galleries

25

AUGUST thursday

41

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design at Cheltenham College Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth The Elemental Sculpture Park

26

AUGUST friday

Performing Arts The Hound of the Baskervilles at The Egg, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7pm The Wind in the Willows at Cotswold Discovery Centre, Northleach, 3pm King Lear at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford The Big Feastival at Alex James’ Farm, Kingham Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Marlborough Common

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design at Cheltenham College Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts American Museum in Britain

27

AUGUST saturday

42

The Hound of the Baskervilles at The Egg, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7pm The Wind in the Willows at Sandford Parks Lido, Cheltenham, 7pm King Lear at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm Always Orange at The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:45pm

Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford The Big Feastival at Alex James’ Farm, Kingham Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Marlborough Common *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design at Cheltenham College Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth Oxfordshire in 50 Objects at The Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

Performing Arts The Hound of the Baskervilles at The Egg, Theatre Royal, Bath, 7pm A Swinging Summer Evening with Peter Gill at Cheltenham Lido, 8pm The Wind in the Willows at Rococo Garden, Painswick, 6:30pm

Events NGS Open Garden at Aston Pottery, near Bampton Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford The Big Feastival at Alex James’ Farm, Kingham Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Marlborough Common

The Big Feastival

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AUGUST sunday

Exhibitions & Auctions American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Indulgence: Daily Delights of Georgian Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design at Cheltenham College Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Exhibitions at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Celebration of Craftsmnship & design

Performing Arts Divine Comedies double bill at The Deanery Garden, Bampton, 5pm King Lear at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events NGS Open Garden at Aston Pottery, near Bampton Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Marlborough Common *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

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AUGUST monday

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WHAT’S ON DIARY Exhibitions & Auctions

Victoria Art Gallery

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Awakenings at Corinium Museum, Cirencester Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth Oxfordshire in 50 Objects at The Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

Performing Arts

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AUGUST tuesday

King Lear at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

Events NGS Open Garden at Aston Pottery, Bampton Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Marlborough Common

Exhibitions & Auctions

John Noott Galleries

American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath Indulgence: Daily Delights of Georgian Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath Selected Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries, Broadway Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Wild Worlds at The Wilson, Cheltenham Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum Summer exhibition at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth

Performing Arts The Libertine at The Theatre Royal, Bath, 7:30pm King Lear at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:15pm The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 7:30pm

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AUGUST

wednesday

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Events Rhino Month at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford Summer Safari at Gloucester Cathedral Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon on Marlborough Common The Big Batsford Bug Hunt! at Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh *For contact details please see page 45–47. The full What’s On Listings start on page 68.

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY: CONTACT DETAILS

CONTACT DETAILS A handy reference guide to the galleries, museums, National Trust properties, theatres, concert halls, hotels, visitor attractions and all other Cotswold venues mentioned in our diary pages…

Albion Gallery: 01608 238020 / OX7 5AD / albiongallery.co.uk American Museum in Britain: 01225 460503 / BA2 7BD / americanmuseum.org Anne Hathaway’s Cottage: 01789 201806 / CV37 6QW / shakespeare.org.uk Arc Theatre: 0845 299 0476 / BA14 0ES / arctheatre.org.uk The Assembly, Leamington Spa: 0844 854 1358 / CV31 3NF / leamingtonassembly.com Aston Pottery, near Bampton: 01993 852031 / OX18 2BT / astonpottery.co.uk Avebury Manor and Garden: 01672 539153 / SN8 1RF / nationaltrust.org.uk/avebury Bacon Theatre: 01242 258002 / GL51 6HE / bacontheatre.co.uk Bath Abbey: 01225 422462 / BA1 1LT / bathabbey.org Bath Assembly Rooms: 01225 477173 / BA1 2QH / nationaltrust.org.uk/bath-assembly-rooms Banbury Museum: 01295 753752 / OX16 2PQ / cherwell.gov.uk/museum Bampton Classical Opera: 01993 851876 / bamptonopera.org

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

Barnsley House: 01285 740000 / GL7 5EE / barnsleyhouse.com Barnsley Herb Garden: 07773 687493 / GL7 5EE / herbsforhealing.net Batsford Arboretum: 01386 701441 / GL56 9AB / batsarb.co.uk Beckford’s Tower: 01225 460705 / BA1 2LR / beckfordstower.org.uk The Bertinet Kitchen: 01225 445531 / BA1 2QR / thebertinetkitchen.com Blockley Decorative and Fine Art Society: GL56 9BY / blockleydfas.org Bridge House Theatre (BHT): 01926 776438 / CV34 6PP / bridgehousetheatre.co.uk British Motor Museum: 01926 641188 / CV35 0BJ / britishmotormuseum.co.uk Buckland Manor: 01386 852626 / WR12 7LY / bucklandmanor.co.uk Building of Bath Collection: 01225 333895 / BA1 5NA / buildingofbathcollection.org.uk Buscot Estate: 01793 762209 / SN6 7PT / nationaltrust.org.uk/buscot-coleshill-estates Cotswold Art and Antique Dealers’ Association: 07831 850544 / cotswolds-antiques-art.com 

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Campden Gallery: 01386 841555 / GL55 6AG / campdengallery.co.uk Chapel Arts Centre: 01225 461700 / BA1 1QR / chapelarts.org Charlecote Park: 01789 470277 / CV35 9ER / nationaltrust.org.uk/charlecote-park Chastleton House: 01494 755560 / GL56 0SU / nationaltrust.org.uk/chastleton-house-and-garden Chedworth Roman Villa: 01242 890256 / GL54 3LJ / nationaltrust.org.uk/chedworth-roman-villa Cheltenham Town Hall: 01242 521621 / GL52 1QA / cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk Chorley’s Auctioneers & Valuers: 01452 344499 / GL4 8EU / www.chorleys.com Cirencester Philharmonia: cirencesterphil.co.uk The Coach House: 01367 850216 / GL7 3RB / thecoach-house.com Corinium Museum: 01285 655611 / GL7 2BX / coriniummuseum.org Cotswold House Hotel: 01386 840330 / GL55 6AN / cotswoldhouse.com Cotswold Wildlife Park: 01993 823006 / OX18 4JP / cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk Coughton Court: 01789 400777 / B49 5JA / coughtoncourt.co.uk The Courts Garden: 01225 782875 / BA14 6RR/ nationaltrust.org.uk/courts-garden Dean Forest Railway and Museum: 01594 845840 / GL15 4ET / deanforestrailway.co.uk Dean Heritage Centre: 01594 822170 / GL14 2UB / deanheritagecentre.com Dormy House: 01386 852711 / WR12 7LF / dormyhouse.co.uk Dursley Operatic & Dramatic Society: 07890 203318 / GL11 4JB / the-dods.com Dyrham Park: 0117 937 2501 / SN14 8ER / nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park Everyman Theatre: 01242 572573 / GL50 1HQ / everymantheatre.org.uk Farncombe Estate, Broadway: 0333 456 8580 / WR12 7LJ / farncombecourses.co.uk The Fashion Museum: 01225 477789 / BA1 2QH / museumofcostume.co.uk The Forum, Bath: 01225 443114 / BA1 1UG / bathforum.co.uk Fosse Gallery: 01451 831319 / GL54 1AF / fossegallery.com Gallery Pangolin: 01453 889765 / GL6 8NT / gallery-pangolin.com Gloucester Cathedral: 01452 528095 / GL1 2LX / gloucestercathedral.org.uk Gloucester Guildhall: 01452 503050 / GL1 1NS / gloucester.gov.uk/guildhall Green Park Station: BA1 2DR

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Gordon Russell Design Museum: 01386 854695 / WR12 7AP / gordonrussellmuseum.org Hall’s Croft: 01789 204016 / CV37 6BG / shakespeare.org.uk Harvey Nichols, Bristol: 0117 916 8888 / BS1 3BZ / harveynichols.com Herschel Museum of Astronomy: 01225 446865 / BA1 2BL / herschelmuseum.org.uk Hidcote Manor: 01386 438333 / GL55 6LR / nationaltrust.org.uk/hidcote Holburne Museum: 01225 388588 / BA2 4DB / holburne.org The John Davies Gallery: 01608 652255 / GL56 9NQ / johndaviesgallery.com John Noott Galleries at Broadway Modern: 01386 858436 / WR12 7AA / john-noott.com Kelmscott Manor: 01367 253348 / GL7 3HJ / kelmscottmanor.org.uk Kenilworth Castle: 01926 748900 / CV8 1NE / english-heritage.org.uk Lacock Abbey: 01249 730459 / SN15 2LG / nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum: 01926 742700 / CV32 4AA / warwickdc.gov.uk Little Buckland Gallery: 01386 853739 / WR12 7JH / littlebucklandgallery.co.uk Lodge Park: 01451 844130 / GL54 3PP / nationaltrust.org.uk/lodge-park-and-sherborne-estate Loft Theatre: 0844 493 4938 / CV31 3AA / loft-theatre.co.uk The Lord Leycester Hospital: 01926 491422 / CV34 4BH / lordleycester.com Lower Slaughter Manor: 01451 820456 / GL54 2HP / lowerslaughter.co.uk Lucknam Park: 01225 742777 / SN14 8AZ / lucknampark.co.uk Lydiard House: 01793 770401 / SN5 3PA / lydiardpark.org.uk MAD Museum: 01926 865831 / CV37 6EF / themadmuseum.co.uk Malmesbury Abbey: 01666 826666 / SN16 0AA / malmesburyabbey.info Mary Arden’s Farm: 01789 204016 / CV37 9HH / shakespeare.org.uk Meantime: 07866 814776 / GL50 4EF / meantime.org.uk Museum in the Park: 01453 763394 / GL5 4AF / museuminthepark.org.uk Nash’s House and New Place: 01789 292325 / CV37 6EP / shakespeare.org.uk National Herb Centre: 01295 690999 / OX17 1DF / herbcentre.co.uk Nature in Art: 01452 731422 / GL2 9PA / nature-in-art.org.uk

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON DIARY: CONTACT DETAILS

New Brewery Arts: 01285 657181 / GL7 1JL / newbreweryarts.org.uk Newark Park: 01453 842644 / GL12 7PZ / nationaltrust.org.uk/newark-park National Gardens Scheme (NGS): ngs.org.uk No.1 Royal Crescent: 01225 428126 / BA1 2LR / bath-preservation-trust.org.uk Noel Arms Hotel: 01386 840317 / GL55 6AT / noelarmshotel.com Old Mill Gallery: 01380 724550 / SN10 5SF / oldmillarts.co.uk The Oxfordshire Museum: 01993 811456 / OX20 1SN / oxfordshire.gov.uk Parabola Arts Centre: 01242 707338 / GL50 3AA / parabolaartscentre.co.uk The Paragon Gallery: 01242 233391 / GL50 1SW / paragongallery.co.uk Pittville Pump Room: 01242 521621 / GL52 3JE / cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk Philippa Dickens at Studio Gallery, Little Barrington, near Burford: 01451 844663 / OX18 4TE / philippadickensart.com Playbox Theatre: 01926 419555 / CV34 6LE / playboxtheatre.com The Playhouse, Cheltenham: 01242 522852 / GL53 7HG / cheltplayhouse.org.uk Pound Arts: 01249 701628 / SN13 9HX / poundarts.org.uk Prema: 01453 860703 / GL11 5SS / prema.org.uk Priory Park: 01225 833422 / BA2 5AH / nationaltrust.org.uk/prior-park Red Rag Gallery: 01451 832563 / GL54 1BB / redraggallery.co.uk Rondo Theatre: 01225 444003 / BA1 6RT / rondotheatre.co.uk Rousham House: 01869 347110 / OX25 4QU / rousham.org Royal Pump Rooms, Leamington Spa: 01926 742762 / CV32 4AA / warwickdc.gov.uk/royalpumprooms Royal Spa Centre: 01926 334418 / CV32 4AT / warwickdc.gov.uk/royalspacentre RSC Swan Theatre: 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk RSC Theatre: 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk RUH (Royal United Hospital): 01225 824987 / BA1 3NG / ruh.nhs.uk/art Sarah Wiseman Gallery: 01865 515123 / OX2 7JL / wisegal.com Shakespeare’s Birthplace: 01789 204016 / CV37 6QW / shakespeare.org.uk Slimbridge Wetland Centre: 01453 891900 / GL2 7BT / wwt.org.uk Snowshill Manor and Garden: 01386 842814 / WR12 7JU / nationaltrust.org.uk/snowshill-manor

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

SOTA Gallery: 01993 862799 / OX28 6FG / sotagallery.co.uk Stoneleigh Abbey: 01926 858535 / CV8 2LF / stoneleighabbey.org The Stour Gallery: 01608 664411 / CV36 4AJ / thestourgallery.co.uk Stourhead: 01747 841152 / BA12 6QD / nationaltrust.org.uk/stourhead Stratford Racecourse: 01789 267949 / CV37 9SE / stratfordracecourse.net Stratford ArtsHouse: 01789 207100 / CV37 6LU / stratfordartshouse.co.uk Stroud Valley Artspace: 01453 751440 / GL5 2HA / sva.org.uk The Subscription Rooms: 01453 760999 / GL5 1AE / subscriptionrooms.org.uk Sundial Theatre: 01285 654228 / GL7 1XA / sundial-theatre.co.uk Swindon Arts Centre: 01793 614837 / SN1 4BJ / swindon.gov.uk Swindon Museum and Art Gallery: 01793 466556 / SN1 4BA / swindon.gov.uk Tewkesbury Abbey: 01684 850959 / GL20 5RZ / tewkesburyabbey.org.uk The Theatre, Chipping Norton: 01608 642350 / OX7 5NL / chippingnortontheatre.co.uk Theatre Royal, Bath: 01225 448844 / BA1 1ET / theatreroyal.org.uk Three Counties Showground: 01684 584900 / WR13 6NW / threecounties.co.uk Thyme at Southrop Manor: 01367 850174 / GL7 3NX / thymeatsouthrop.co.uk Under the Edge Arts (UTEA): 07791 323869 / GL12 7HW / utea.org.uk Upton House: 01295 670266 / OX15 6HT / nationaltrust.org.uk/upton-house Victoria Art Gallery: 01225 477233 / BA2 4AT / victoriagal.org.uk Warwick Arts Centre: 02476 524524 / CV4 7AL / warwickartscentre.co.uk Warwick Racecourse: 0844 579 3013 / CV34 6HN / warwickracecourse.co.uk Waterperry Gardens: 01844 339226 / OX33 1JZ / waterperrygardens.co.uk Westbury Court Garden: 01452 760429 / GL14 1PD / nationaltrust.org.uk/westbury-court-garden Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa: 01666 822888 / SN16 0RB / whatleymanor.com The Wilson: 01242 237431 / GL50 3JT / cheltenhammuseum.org.uk Wootton Village Hall: woottontalks.co.uk Wyvern Theatre: 01793 524481 / SN1 1QN / wyverntheatre.org.uk

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WHAT’S ON FEATURE: EXHIBITION AT THE MUSEUM IN THE PARK

Valerian Wall by Bob Davison

Saturday 2 July – Sunday 31 July

Bob Davison: ‘Borders’ exhibition at The Museum in the Park, Stroud The progress of The Walled Garden Project at the Museum in the Park has prompted this exhibition of local artist Bob Davison’s recent work, particularly those paintings that reference landscape, gardens and plants…

Bob Davison’s paintings and drawings evolve from his interest in nature, science and landscape.

He may begin figuratively, from observation – noting colour, pattern, structure and space – but then much of the work as it develops becomes unrecognisable and abstract, attempting to show how we perceive things. Details and contrasts seen in garden borders and Cotswold landscapes become striking combinations of colour, marks and shapes. Many of his works stem from observations in his garden, just outside Stroud.

Davison has been teaching on the BA course at the Art School / University in Cheltenham for over 30 years. He has also exhibited widely and has works in many national and private collections.

Locally, they may be found in Gloucester Royal

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Hospital, The University of Gloucestershire and Willans & Willans in Cheltenham.

On the opening weekend of this exhibition (Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 July, from 2pm–4pm), the Museum’s new Walled Garden, where the freshly planted borders are just beginning to grow, will also be open to the public. There will be flower making activities for children and further paintings on display in the Pavilion.

On Sunday 10 July, to coincide with Stroud Festival of Nature in Stratford Park, there is a free afternoon event (2pm–4pm) at which visitors can meet Bob Davison in the gallery and learn more about his work and inspiration.

The Museum in the Park, Stroud: 01453 763394 / GL5 4AF / museuminthepark.org.uk

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON FEATURE: CORNBURY FESTIVAL

Friday 8 July – Sunday 10 July

Cornbury Festival at Great Tew Park, near Chipping Norton The 13th annual Cornbury Festival features another high profile musical line-up in the open-air party atmosphere for which it has become known…

Cornbury Festival is a unique hybrid of premium music festival and quintessentially English village fête. This year’s event features an eclectic mix of music on four stages, with the line-up including Bryan Ferry, Jamie Cullum, Seal, All Saints, James Morrison, Newton Faulkner, Gabrielle Aplin and The Shires. There’s also a Comedy Emporium, literary talks, gourmet caterers, a therapy and massage zone and an exclusive VIP area.

The UK’s greatest jazz pianist, Jamie Cullum, is Friday’s headliner. Jamie is joined by the ’80s acid jazz pioneers Soul II Soul, R&B troubadour

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

Lemar, rock ’n’ roll survivor Wilko Johnson, Ska veterans The Beat and newcomers Port Isla and The Dunwells.

All Saints – who are marking their comeback at this year’s Cornbury Festival – plus Corinne Bailey Rae, Red Sky July and Booker T join the Saturday bill which is topped by Bryan Ferry.

After his triumph as a surprise special guest last year, Seal returns with his own headline slot on Sunday. Joining him are Cornbury favourites The Shires, the celebrated singer-songwriter James Morrison, guitar virtuoso Newton Faulkner 

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WHAT’S ON FEATURE: CORNBURY FESTIVAL and ’60s rock combo The Zombies. Probably the best party band in the world – Bjorn Again – is set to close the festival in true ABBA style.

Festival Director Hugh Phillimore has a story to tell about some of the artists appearing: “Some time around 2002, I was lucky to be at a seminal show in a packed Pizza Express Dean Street, in Soho. There, we all witnessed the arrival of Jamie Cullum and I remember being strangely shocked by his talent. I’m pleased to say that we’ve been able to work with Jamie many times over the last 14 years, mostly at private shows where he has always been able to convert even the toughest audience into a joyous mass. He’s sold millions of albums and won endless awards whilst remaining incredibly down to earth.”

“It is just fantastic to see the return of one of the best ever pop quartets, All Saints. Older and wiser but still gloriously cool, they’ve been previously honoured for their platinum albums and million selling singles. I’m old enough to have worked with them first time around when I booked them for the Belga Beach Festival in Belgium – in what seems like a previous life!”

“Male singer songwriters are relatively ubiquitous these days but James Morrison remains an original, his unique gravelly voice carrying great songs. He took some time off prior to his recent album, 2015’s Higher Than Here, but we’re delighted that he’s back with us again after his appearance here in 2011. Especially so as he has said some lovely things about us in a recent interview: ’a nice chilled festival where people appreciate music’ – thank you, James.”

The festival is very much a family affair, with a traditional funfair as well as a creative Kids’ Zone right in the middle of the action. It is within sight of the main stage, so families can drop in and out without missing any of the weekend’s highlights. And, unlike other festivals, all activities are free with no need to book in advance: just turn up and join in.

Entrance to the festival is free for underthrees and quieter camping is available at the same price as general camping tickets. If you prefer day entry, there are tickets separately priced for adults, children (3–12 years), 13–16 year olds, and over-70s.

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All Saints

Red Sky July

Seal Cornbury Music Festival: 0844 338 0000 (for tickets) / OX7 4AE / cornburyfestival.com

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON FEATURE: EXHIBITION AT SOTA GALLERY

In the Magnolias by Gary Woodley

Sentinel by Gary Woodley

Friday 8 July – Monday 18 July

Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney This solo exhibition features original watercolours which capture the beauty of British wildlife…

A regular exhibitor with SOTA Gallery, watercolour artist Gary Woodley is very well known throughout the south of England for his depictions of British wildlife. This exhibition of his work features his favourite British birds, insects and mammals.

Woodley was born and lives in Ducklington, near Witney. In 1972, he joined Boehm of Malvern Ceramics, in Worcester, as a ceramic artist painting porcelain studies of animals and birds. He later became a member of the Society of Wildlife Artists. In 1985, he moved into book illustration and his first book was a new edition of Kenneth Grahame’s Wind in the Willows.

Other books he has illustrated include Where the Windrush Flows, Wychwood the Secret Forest and The Stripling Thames.

Woodley says, “When I was a child, l learned an awful lot about nature and the world around me on walks with my father who, as a country man, was full of knowledge. l remember my mother nurturing my talent in art, watching me draw and advising on colours and shading. Both had a profound effect on my work.”

Not only is Woodley a talented watercolourist but his use of handmade paper adds another

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

unique dimension to his work. All the papers used by Woodley are handmade and selected for their unique qualities, tones and textures.

For example, their absorbent quality leads to colours mixing in unique and unusual ways, and the pheasants in this exhibition were painted on a handmade Himalayan Paper selected for its multi-tonal quality.

Woodley says, “The handmade paper I now use opened up a more organic feel and texture to my work. Sometimes, I might follow the natural pattern of the paper and incorporate the subject into the composition; at other times, I can look at a piece of paper and see the painting there in my mind’s eye. When working on some of these papers, it can be slightly nerve-racking as some areas can change from being smooth to very porous, but the results are worth the effort.”

The SOTA Gallery is open Monday to Friday, from 9:30am–4:30pm, and on Saturday from 9am–5pm.

If you would like an invitation to the Private View of this exhibition, please contact the gallery.

SOTA Gallery, Witney: 01993 862799 / OX28 6FG / sotagallery.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON FEATURE: STRATFORD-UPON-AVON HOME & GARDEN SHOW

Visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon Home & Garden Show 2015

Friday 15 July – Sunday 17 July

Stratford-upon-Avon Home & Garden Show This event showcases artisan designs and crafts, inspirational ideas for your home and garden, creative and unusual homewares, plants and gardening accessories…

The Stratford-upon-Avon Home & Garden Show is held in the centre of the town at The Recreation Ground, on the banks of the River Avon and with the Royal Shakespeare Theatre as its backdrop.

Features include a massive Home & Craft Marquee with over 80 stands; a Food Court with a cookery theatre showing daily demonstrations; a Local Craft Marquee showcasing new craftspeople; the Vintage Tearooms serving cream teas on vintage china; a Rural Crafts Marquee; over 80 garden and outdoor living stands with ever ything for the green-fingered visitor; and the main Demonstration Theatre with a full programme of gardening and craft shows.

The show is unique since every one of the 200+ exhibitors is handpicked for quality of product, relevance to the home and garden, and to ensure as wide a variety of exhibitors as possible.

One of the show’s main features for 2016, in celebration of the 400 th year of the legacy of Shakespeare, is a Shakespearean ’Globe Theatre’ Charity Show Garden, complete with a working

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performance stage. This circular garden is a floral representation of the original Globe Theatre in which Shakespeare first performed his plays in Elizabethan times. On the Garden Stage throughout each show day, you can see various 15-minute entertaining acts, from musicians and poets to belly dancers.

This year, the show’s chosen charity is Bliss, which works to provide the best possible care and support for premature and sick babies and their families across the UK. A Charity VIP Preview Night on 14 July, from 6pm–9pm, is being held in support of Bliss, with live music and all exhibitors’ stands open for business. Preview Night tickets are £20, to include a cream tea and glass of Prosecco.

Show tickets for adults are £5 in advance or £7 on the gate / £6 for over-60s, with free entry for accompanied children under 16 years old.

Stratford-upon-Avon Home & Garden Show: 01789 549199 / 0333 666 3366 (for tickets) / CV37 7DR / stratfordhomeandgardenshow.co.uk

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON FEATURE: SUMMER AUCTION AT CHORLEY’S

Short Horn’d Ox by John Pitman

Tuesday 19 July

Summer Country House Auction at Chorley’s, near Cheltenham This sale marks the 10 th anniversary of Chorley’s, Gloucestershire’s fine art auctioneers…

Ten years ago, Chorley’s emerged from the Art & Antiques division of the long established land agents Bruton Knowles. Since then, the auction house has handled sales from many large country houses in Gloucestershire and beyond, so it is fitting that its 10th anniversary is being marked with an auction consisting of fresh-to-the-market country house material.

The lots include five wonderful paintings from Apperley Court, near Tewkesbury, by the early 19th century artist John Pitman. These five oils of cattle are among his finest work and were commissioned by the Mrs’s Strickland of Apperley Court. The paintings depict several named cattle

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

including an award winning dairy cow, a bull and a short horn’d ox. Each carries a pre-sale estimate of £2,000–3,000.

Also from Apperley Court is a pair of Chippendale period corner commodes (sometimes called encoignures) in lovely, untouched condition.

One of these serpentine fronted chests has a hinged cover enclosing a fitted interior for washbowl and other accessories. The quality of the pair suggests a first division maker and accordingly they are estimated at £10,000–15,000.

From another local country house comes a collection of oil paintings, mainly portraits, including an early 18 th centur y depiction 

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WHAT’S ON FEATURE: SUMMER AUCTION AT CHORLEY’S Left: Grouse by Stephen Elmer Below: Portrait of Graves Martyn, bencher of Lincoln’s Inn

of Graves Martyn, bencher of Lincoln’s Inn. With one hand resting on a table by a neatly tied bundle of legal documents, he looks every inch the prosperous lawyer. The portrait is estimated at £2,000–3,000.

A Wiltshire country house has consigned several pictures of sporting interest including a pair of studies of grouse by Stephen Elmer, an 18th century artist who specialised in depictions of game. This large pair of oils is typical of his work and is expected to realise £4,000–6,000.

Another genre of painting well represented in the sale is marine art: a depiction of a man o’ war from three angles by Charles Brooking should achieve £5,000–7,000 while a set of four etchings

by William Lionel Wyllie has a pre-sale estimate of £700–1,000. In addition to furniture and pictures, the auction also includes a good selection of ceramics, clocks and other antiques.

Viewing is on Sunday 17 July, from 10am–4pm, and Monday 18 July, from 9am–5pm.

The full auction catalogue may also be found on Chorley’s website. The auction is from 10am on Tuesday 19 July.

Chorley’s, Prinknash Abbey Park, near Cheltenham: 01452 344499 / GL4 8EU / chorleys.com

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JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON FEATURE: COUNTRYFILE LIVE

Blenheim Palace, the setting for Countryfile Live

Thursday 4 August – Sunday 7 August

Countryfile Live at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock The inaugural Countryfile Live showcases the best of the British countryside in what will be one of the UK’s biggest outdoor events…

Countr yfile Live combines the traditions of county fairs with stars from the BBC’s Countryfile programme – Matt Baker, John Craven, Adam Henson, Anita Rani, Ellie Harrison and Tom Heap.

On air every week since 1988, Countryfile is the BBC’s flagship rural affairs programme as well as the most watched factual programme on any TV channel. Countryfile Live is being staged in association with the National Trust.

Anita Rani says of the new event, “You’ll see everything from agricultural machinery to environmental areas, to food, arts and outdoor pursuits. Anything that is to do with the country will be celebrated in the glorious setting of Blenheim Palace.”

Over the four days, there is a spectacular live show in the Countryfile Live Main Arena, celebrating the best that rural Britain has to offer and with a particular focus on farming.

Further fun for all the family includes falconry displays, fly fishing tutorials, the Equine Village – with polo and shire horse displays, a Dog & Duck show, Off-Road experiences in the

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latest Mitsubishi models, farming machiner y displays and the international lumberjack sports competition. ’In the Barn’ offers visitors the chance to quiz the Countryfile presenters in Q&A sessions, the National Trust theatre plays host to a thoughtprovoking programme of debates and talks on countryside issues, and The Village Green is the setting for live family entertainment such as Tugof-War, Punch and Judy, a vintage funfair and Morris dancing.

Countryfile Live is also hosting over 500 exhibitors, from independent food and craft producers to major luxury brands, so there are plenty of opportunities for some retail therapy.

Tickets are available via the event’s website, priced £26.40 for adults, £24.20 for age 65+, £13.20 for children (age 5–16) or £72.60 for families (2 adults + 2 children). VIP tickets are £82.50. With on-site camping available, Countryfile lovers can make a weekend of it, too.

Countryfile Live, Woodstock: OX20 1PP / countryfilelive.com

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WHAT’S ON FEATURE: HARTPURY INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS

Sophie Christiansen competing in the para dressage at Hartpury’s Festival of Dressage 2015

Wednesday 10 August – Sunday 14 August

Hartpury International Horse Trials at Hartpury College, Gloucestershire Hot on the heels of the Hartpury Festival of Dressage in June comes the NAF Five Star Hartpury International Horse Trials, which attracts many of the biggest names from the eventing world…

The five days of competition get underway on Wednesday 10 August as the stars of the future take part in the Burghley Young Event Horse classes. The competition then starts for the CCI1*, CCI2* and CIC3* with the dressage phase on Thursday and Friday. Saturday brings all the excitement of the cross country phase plus the CIC3* showjumping and the competition comes to a close on Sunday with the showjumping finale of the CCI1* and CCI2* competitions.

The star billing for the Horse Trials always goes to the stunning action on the cross country course. In previous years, competitors have

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included Sir Mark Todd, Zara Phillips, Mary King, Pippa Funnell, Harry Meade, Andrew Nicholson and Chris Burton. A shuttle bus service takes spectators to the viewing sites of all three of the testing courses on Hartpury House Bank.

Entry is free on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and tickets for Saturday and Sunday are £10 each. Entry for under-16s is free all week, as is car parking. Advance tickets may be purchased online at www.hartpuryhorsetrials.co.uk.

Hartpury International Horse Trials: GL19 3BE / hartpuryhorsetrials.co.uk

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON FEATURE: CELEBRATION OF CRAFTSMANSHIP & DESIGN

Armchair and Ottoman by Bark Furniture

Saturday 20 August – Monday 29 August

Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design at Thirlestaine Long Gallery, CheltenhaM This annual event is the UK’s largest exhibition of contemporary bespoke furniture, featuring the work of more than 70 designer-makers…

The annual Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design exhibition, now in its 21st year, gives up-and-coming designers the chance to show their skills alongside famous names in the bespoke furniture business. It brings together many of the UK’s best contemporary artisan furniture makers, supported by selected work from other disciplines such as jewellery, art and ceramics.

More than 300 exhibits are spread through six large neo-classical rooms in Thirlestaine House, including the magnificent Long Gallery.

All of the work on display is for sale and all of the craftsmen and women are happy to discuss

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commissions. In the main, these are all very small workshops, often just a single craftsperson, and so the story of each piece, the inspiration and the production of it become part of its appeal.

Founded in Cheltenham in 1995, the exhibition has been directed since 2009 by the award winning furniture designer Jason Heap. He says, “What I love about this show is the passion and diversity of its exhibitors and the work that they produce. Every exhibit has a story behind it and within it is a part of the person that has designed and made it. We’ve seen a consistent feed of really talented makers coming through 

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WHAT’S ON FEATURE: CELEBRATION OF CRAFTSMANSHIP & DESIGN

Razorfish by Chaircreative

Drinks cabinet by Burke & Marshall

each year – it’s really inspiring to know that the passion for true craftsmanship is alive and well in the UK.” He also understands the opportunities for his visitors: “Whether people come just to view the amazing work, or are here to enhance their homes with something unique and exceptional, they all seem to leave with wide eyes and wide smiles!”

The Peter Sefton Furniture School has sponsored this year’s free prize draw which offers visitors the chance to win a voucher worth £500.

Anyone who buys an entry ticket to the exhibition is invited to fill in their details on the reverse and then drop it into a box on their way out in order

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Clamshell Alchemist lamp by Blott Works

to be in with a chance of winning. The voucher can be used as full or part payment to one or several of the exhibitors listed in this year’s catalogue and is valid for one year from the end of the exhibition.

Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design is open daily from 10am–4pm, including Bank Holiday Monday. Entry is £6 for adults and £3 for under-16s; tickets are available on the door.

The pop-up Hardwood Café offers visitors the opportunity to rest and contemplate.

Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design, Cheltenham: 02392 160761 / GL53 7LD / celebrationofcraftsmanship.com

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON FEATURE: THE BIG FEASTIVAL

Big Kitchen Supper Club at The Big Feastival

Friday 26 August – Sunday 28 August

The Big Feastival at Alex James’ Farm, Kingham The Big Feastival celebrates its fifth birthday this year, again presenting its unique combination of food, music and family fun…

Following last year’s sell-out event, The Big Feastival is returning this August to its regular home on Alex James’ farm in West Oxfordshire. ’Feastival-goers’ are in for a Bank Holiday treat with the festival’s biggest and best line-up of food and music to date.

This year’s music acts include Uptown Funk superstar Mark Ronson, rock legends Kaiser

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Chiefs, rapper Tinie Tempah, Mercur y Prize nominee Roisin Murphy, singer-songwriter Ella Henderson and Grammy Award winner Foxes.

With sing-alongs and a silent disco, the festival promises to get everyone on their feet.

There is also a top tier foodie schedule.

You can sample award winning street food from specialists such as previous British Street 

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WHAT’S ON FEATURE: THE BIG FEASTIVAL

A sundowner at The Big Feastival

The Big Feastival’s Main Stage

Alex and James

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Food Awards winners Original Patty Men and The Cauldron, and Time Out’s ‘Number One street food trader’ Le Swine. The NEFF Big Kitchen is featuring live cooking demonstrations from the festival’s co-host, Jamie Oliver, as well as Michelin star masters Raymond Blanc and Tom Kerridge, the bestselling author Gizzi Erskine and restaurateurs Thomasina Miers and José Pizarro.

And you don’t just have to watch as there are plenty of hands-on activities to get involved in: re-charge yourself at The Healthy Living Zone, take part in the talks and tastings in The Wellness Kitchen, or attend food and drink masterclasses.

For children, there is a full programme of fun and games such as the NEFF Kids’ Kitchen, the Family Olympics and a return of Little Dudes’ Den. Camping tickets for the festival weekend are £174.50 (adult), £94.50 (age 13–17) and £32.25 (age 12 and under). Alternatively, weekend tickets excluding camping (for entr y on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday) are £144.50 (adult) / £84.50 (teen) / £16.15 (under 13). Day tickets are from £59 (adult) / £32.25 (teen) / free (under 13).

The final word goes to Alex James: “With 2016 marking our fifth birthday on the farm, it promises to be the best year yet.”

The Big Feastival, Kingham: 0844 995 9673 / OX7 6UJ / thebigfeastival.com

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON FEATURE: EXHIBITION AT AMERICAN MUSEUM IN BRITAIN

An original Star Wars poster

throughout July & August

‘An American Toy Story’ at The American Museum in Britain, Bath This exhibition tells the story of the games and toys that have been inspired by popular films…

The American Museum in Britain, on the outskirts of Bath, is a great destination for a summer’s day out: there are gardens and grounds to explore, a collection of Americana in the manor house and views from the café terrace over the Limpley Stoke valley.

The current exhibition, An American Toy Story, showcases movie props, vintage toys and memorabilia from famous films including James Bond, Star Wars, Snow White, Mickey Mouse, Frozen and Toy Story. Adults can enjoy the nostalgia

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of recognising familiar figures from their childhood, plus there are plenty of contemporary exhibits for younger visitors to enjoy in the form of sparkly princesses and Jedi knights.

Exhibits include Donald Duck and Shirley Temple dolls from the 1930s, the ET extra-terrestrial video game from 1982, 1970s Early Bird Deal and Millennium Falcon toys and Buzz Lightyear 1996 action figures. One of the most admired exhibits is the flying figure of Superman wearing the actual costume worn by Christopher Reeve in 

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WHAT’S ON FEATURE: EXHIBITION AT AMERICAN MUSEUM IN BRITAIN

the original film. Items on loan to the exhibition have come from a variety of sources, ranging from children lending their well-used toys, to serious collectors showing valuable and unusual pieces. This makes for an interesting mix of battered, beloved toys alongside collectors’ items which are still in pristine condition.

The inter-active room at the back of the gallery has also proved to be a great hit, with dressing up costumes, props, Lego and drawing materials for everyone to enjoy.

Aside from the museum’s usual programme of events, talks and workshops, exhibition related activities over the summer include the drop-in events Princesses in Cars, Princes up a Tower on

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Thursday 21 July and In A Galaxy Far, Far Away…

– a Star Wars celebration and making workshop – on Thursday 4 August (both 1pm–4pm). Booking is essential for a Fight Like a Jedi workshop – an introduction to the art of stage fighting – on Thursday 28 July and a digital animation workshop on Friday 29 July (both 10am–12noon, ages 8 +, £10 per child).

An American Toy Story runs until 30 October.

The American Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 12noon–5pm, closed Mondays except during August and on Bank Holidays. The gardens and café are open from 10:30am.

American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath: 01225 460503 / BA2 7BD / americanmuseum.org

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

WHAT’S ON FEATURE: THE ELEMENTAL SCULPTURE PARK

Spray by Antonia Spowers

throughout July & August

Outdoor Sculpture at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes The diverse ecosystems of this outdoor sculpture park near Cirencester host works by over 70 sculptors…

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WHAT’S ON FEATURE: ELEMENTAL SCULPTURE PARK

Kneeling Girl by Angela Palme

The Elemental Sculpture Park sits on a 10 acre site near Cirencester that was bought by the Hartlands 21 years ago as a thistle field. ’The Land’ has now been transformed into a mixed deciduous and conifer woodland with ponds, gardens and glades. Joining these diverse spaces are paths that take you on a journey around the park to see sculpture by up-and-coming artists as well as more established names.

The park includes the work of over 70 sculptors, including Pam Foley, Luke Dickenson, John Jebb, Stephen Fox, Sarah Darcy, Simon Probyn, Bob Dawson and Natasha Houseago as well as a range of work by David Hartland himself.

The Land is an ongoing and evolving project, producing a biodiversity of natural ecosystems.

This provides sculptors with a wonder ful environment in which to display their work to its full potential.

In addition to the sculpture on display, the site has a lovely Tea Room which includes a gallery.

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Over the summer, this space is hosting an exhibition of works by local artist Alan Steeves-Booker.

Alan uses free-form methods to simulate the effect produced by someone rearranging the pieces of several puzzles, or rapidly flicking the pages of an illustrated book. He works in a wide range of media including acrylic paint, children’s colours, industrial paint, silicone, acid and digital graphics.

The artist says of his work: “I am interested in complexity and the way in which our immediate visual experience is overlaid by projected memories and arbitrary thoughts.”

The Elemental Sculpture Park is open daily from 1 April to 30 September, from 10:30am–5pm with last admission at 4pm. The gallery is also open throughout December.

Admission is £5 per person, of which £1 is donated to charity.

The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes, near Cirencester: 07927 028558 / GL7 6FE / elementalsculpturepark.com

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

EXHIBITION IN THE SPOTLIGHT: ‘JUBILEE’ AT GALLERY PANGOLIN

until Friday 22 July

Argentum Vivum by Jon Buck

‘Jubilee’ exhibition at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford Gallery Pangolin is celebrating its 25th birthday in style with this exhibition of silver sculpture…

Tucked away in the village of Chalford, Gallery Pangolin opened its doors 25 years ago on what was once a Victorian industrial site at the heart of the Golden Valley. The initial inspiration for the gallery was the need for a showcase for the world class sculpture cast at Pangolin Editions.

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It was only later that the founders discovered that they were reviving the 19th century tradition of an association between art foundry and gallery.

Over the past 25 years, the gallery has expanded enormously and now embraces a wide range of activities including major one-man 

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EXHIBITION IN THE SPOTLIGHT: ‘JUBILEE’ AT GALLERY PANGOLIN

Something Fishy by Abigail Fallis

Silver Blade by Anthony Abrahams

shows, publications and collaborations with other galleries and museums. Gallery Pangolin also co-ordinates public commissions and acts as an agent for many of its artists. It is one of the few galleries to specialise in sculpture and related drawings, and has established a reputation for works of quality and excellence by both Modern and contemporary artists.

Julibee includes over 40 works, 17 of which have been specially commissioned for the exhibition, including pieces by Daniel Chadwick, Jon Buck, Steve Dilworth, Abigail Fallis, Damien Hirst and Eilis O’Connell.

Many of the exhibitors have been with the gallery since its earliest days. Their comments include this one from Jon Buck: “Gallery Pangolin is really unique; no other gallery has such a close affinity and comprehension of the sculptor’s making process. My own relationship with them has been a long and fruitful one and they have been indefatigable in supporting and promoting the ways in which my work has developed over the last 25 years.”

Nick Bibby adds: “I exhibited the first two bronzes of my sculpting career with Galler y

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Triple Goddess by Sue Freeborough

Pangolin 24 years ago. I am happy to say I have shown work with them ever since. They champion art and artists. I love them! They are, quite simply, what a good gallery should be. Here’s to another 25 years!”

Galler y Pangolin is open Monday to Friday, from 10am–6pm, and on Saturday from 10am–1pm.

Gallery Pangolin, Chalford, near Stroud: 01453 889765 / GL6 8NT / gallery-pangolin.com

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THE STOUR GALLERY SUMMER EXHIBITION Opening weekend: Sat 23 July 12.30–5.30pm and Sun 24 July 11am–4pm featuring new work by

GEOFFREY ROBINSON including other selected Gallery Artists

Open: Mon – Sat 10.00am–5.30pm, Closed Thursday 10 High Street, Shipston-on-Stour, Warwickshire CV36 4AJ (North Oxfordshire/Gloucestershire borders) 01608 664411 | info@thestourgallery.co.uk

www.thestourgallery.co.uk paintings • original prints • ceramics • glass • sculputre • jewellery • Royal Academitians

Summer Exhibition 9th July - 30th August Featuring new paintings by Clare Bonnet, Charlotte Cornish, Peter Kettle & Fletcher Prentice & Sculpture by Carol Peace

www.wisegal.com 40/41 South Parade Summertown Oxford OX2 7JL

01865 515123

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Clare Bonnet, Prophesy of Dawn, Oil on Board, 100cm x 100cm

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Exhibitions &AJuly–August uctions until Saturday 2 July Line & Surface at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford 01865 515123 / OX2 7JL / wisegal.com This exhibition examines the work of Simon J Harris, Steven MacIver, Henrietta Dubrey and Mark Beattie. The four artists each have a strong, individual voice but their work is connected by their use of strong line and colour as well as a preoccupation with abstraction. Sarah Wiseman Gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am– 5:30pm, and on Monday from 10am–4pm. from Saturday 2 July Members of the Pastel Society at John Noott Galleries at Broadway Modern, Broadway 01386 858436 / WR12 7AA / john-noott.com Showing throughout the summer, this exhibition of works in pastel features artists including Peter Vincent, Jeanette Hayes, Jenny Halstead, Michael Norman, Moira Huntly, Roger Dellar, Sarah Bee, Sheila Goodman, Tom Walker and Tony Allain.

The gallery is open Monday to Saturday, from 9:30am–5pm (closed 1pm–2pm) and on Sunday from 11am–4pm.

Orange Walk by Jeannette Hayes at John Noott Galleries at Broadway Modern

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Border Study Blue III

by Bob Davison at Museum in the Park

Saturday 2 July – Sunday 31 July Bob Davison: Borders at Museum in the Park, Stroud 01453 763394 / GL5 4AF / museuminthepark.org.uk Bob Davison’s paintings and drawings evolve from his interest in nature, science and landscape.

The progress of The Walled Garden Project at the Museum in the Park provides this opportunity to exhibit some of the artist’s recent work, particularly those that reference landscape, gardens and plants. For further details, see our What’s On feature on page 48. until Sunday 3 July The Brass Monkey Group exhibition at Little Buckland Gallery, Broadway 01386 853739 / WR12 7JH / littlebucklandgallery.co.uk The Brass Monkey Group of painters, ceramicists and sculptors has a rich variety of inspirations and approaches. This exhibition features the work of eight artists: the painters Edmund Fairfax-Lucy, James Kerr, Arabella Kiszely, William Mackesy and Marina MeredithOwen; ceramicists Adrienne Baba and Robin Walden; and sculptor Rachel Carter.

Throughout the exhibition, the gallery is open daily from 10am–5pm.

Friday 8 July – Monday 18 July Gary Woodley exhibition at SOTA Gallery, Witney 01993 862799 / OX28 6FG / sotagallery.co.uk A regular exhibitor with the SOTA Gallery, Gary Woodley is best known for his

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WHAT’S ON: EXHIBITIONS & AUCTIONS watercolours capturing the beauty of British wildlife. If you would like to attend the private view on Friday 8 July, from 7:30pm, please contact the gallery for an invitation. For further details, see our What’s On feature on page 51.

Saturday 9 July – Tuesday 30 August Summer Exhibition at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford 01865 515123 / OX2 7JL / wisegal.com An exhibition featuring new paintings by Clare Bonnet, Charlotte Cornish, Peter Kettle and Fletcher Prentice as well as sculpture by Carol Peace.

The gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am–5:30pm, and on Monday from 10am–4pm. until Sunday 10 July on form at Asthall Manor, Asthall, near Burford 01993 824319 / OX18 4HW / onformsculpture.co.uk This year’s on form, the biennial exhibition of sculpture in stone, features pieces by 39 artists.

More than 200 works are on display, all of which are for sale. Admission is £10 per person, with concession tickets for over 60s and students, and free entry for children under 12. The exhibition is open Wednesday to Sunday, from 12noon–6pm, with late night opening until 9pm on Thursdays. until Sunday 10 July Simon Lewty: The SIGNificance of Writing at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum 01926 742700 / CV32 4AA / warwickdc.gov.uk Simon Lewty is a nationally renowned artist who now lives and works in Leamington Spa. This

Take the High Ground

by Gary Woodley at SOTA Gallery

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In Paradise I by Charlotte Cornish at Sarah Wiseman Gallery

exhibition includes early works by Lewty dating back to the 1970s alongside his more recent works. until Sunday 10 July James Osborne exhibition at Nature in Art, Twigworth 01452 731422 / GL2 9PA / nature-in-art.org.uk This display is a celebration of the work of James TA Osborne (1907–1979) who regularly exhibited at the Royal Academy and the Society of PainterEtchers and Engravers. He was well known for his experimentation with print and paper and leaves behind a varied body of work, examples of which are held in public and private collections internationally.

Tuesday 12 July – Saturday 23 July Alison Vickery exhibition at New Brewery Arts Pop-up Gallery, Cirencester 01285 657181 / GL7 1JL / newbreweryarts.org.uk Alison Vickery is showing the loose floral still lifes for which she is best known alongside landscapes from her travels to the British coast, locally and further afield. All the work is in a wide range of media including inks, collage, watercolour and mixed media.

Throughout the exhibition, the pop-up gallery is open daily, from 10am–4pm. 

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Cove – High Tide by Neil Canning at The Stour Gallery

until Saturday 16 July Neil Canning: Making a Splash at The Stour Gallery, Shipston-on-Stour 01608 664411 / CV36 4AJ / thestourgallery.co.uk Making a Splash features new paintings by Neil Canning as well as work by other selected gallery artists. A member of the St Ives School, Canning is one of the region’s most innovative Abstract painters. The Stour Gallery is open Monday to Saturday (closed Thursday), from 10am–5:30pm. until Sunday 17 July A Greek in Egypt: The Hunter from Naukratis at Corinium Museum, Cirencester 01285 655611 / GL7 2BX / coriniummuseum.org The Hunter from Naukratis is a spotlight display developed by the British Museum to explore the encounter between the ancient civilisations of Egypt and Greece, Cyprus, Phoenicia, Persia and Rome. At the dawn of the Classical Age, Egypt opened a port at Naukratis, welcoming the peoples of the Mediterranean to trade. This display highlights the on-going British Museum excavations at Naukratis and shows footage of underwater archaeology in the region.

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until Sunday 17 July Exhibition of Historic Samplers at Witney Antiques, Witney 01993 703902 / OX28 6BU / witneyantiques.com Now Whilst My Hands Are Thus Employed is a selling exhibition of samplers spanning three centuries, from the second half of the 17th century through to the 19th century.

This span of around 300 years clearly shows the changes in samplers over time – reflecting the changes in style, attitudes to education and aspirations of the society in which they were created. Throughout the exhibition, Witney Antiques is open from 10am–5pm daily.

Tuesday 19 July Summer Country House auction at Chorley’s, Prinknash Abbey Park, near Cheltenham 01452 344499 / GL4 8EX / chorleys.com This sale marks the auction house’s 10th anniversary: back in 2006 when the fine art department of Bruton Knowles set up under the Chorley’s banner, it was a brave move and the subsequent decade has been filled with important sales. The July sale includes a large quantity of ’fresh to the market’ country house material of the type in which Chorley’s specialises. Viewing days are Sunday 17 July, from 10am–4pm, and Monday

Burn Water by Steve Dilworth at Gallery Pangolin

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WHAT’S ON: EXHIBITIONS & AUCTIONS 18 July, from 9am–5pm. For further details, see our What’s On feature on pages 53–54.

Wednesday 20 July – Tuesday 30 August Awakenings: Ancient Themes, New Perspectives at Corinium Museum, Cirencester 01285 655611 / GL7 2BX / coriniummuseum.org This exhibition celebrates contemporary mosaic artwork by members of the British Association for Modern Mosaic (BAMM). BAMM, founded in 1999, exists to promote, encourage and support excellence in mosaic art. from Thursday 21 July Best of the South West at Pound Arts, Corsham 01249 701628 / SN13 9HX / poundarts.org.uk This third annual exhibition features works selected from university degree shows in the South West region.

Friday 22 July Antique & General auction at Moore Allen & Innocent, Cirencester 01285 646050 / GL7 5RH / mooreallen.co.uk This sale usually includes 18th, 19th and 20th century furniture, pottery, porcelain, glass, silver, textiles, clocks, boxes, jewellery, paintings and prints, carpets and rugs. Viewing is from 10:30am–8pm on Thursday 21 July and from 9am on the morning of the sale. until Friday 22 July Jubilee at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford 01453 889765 / GL6 8NT / gallery-pangolin.com Gallery Pangolin is celebrating its 25th birthday with a spectacular exhibition of silver sculptures, including over 40 exhibits by internationally acclaimed artists. The gallery is open Monday to Friday, from 10am–6pm, and on Saturday from 10am–1pm. For further details, see our Exhibition in the Spotlight on pages 65–66. from Friday 22 July Concealment and Deception at Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum 01926 742700 / CV32 4AA / warwickdc.gov.uk This exhibition tells the story of the Civil Defence Camouflage Establishment which was based 

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ELEMENTAL SCULPTURE PARK 1 st April – 30 th September Come and take a leisurely wander along our trail where over 90 sculptures are set amongst acres of beautiful woodland, shady glades and still ponds. Afterwards you can visit the Poppin Tearoom and Gallery for light refreshments.

E L E M E N TA L S C U L P T U R E PA R K Somerford Keynes, Cirencester GL7 6FE

www.elementalsculpturepark.com Opening Times: Mon, Thu, Fr i, Sat, Sun 10.30–17.00 (last admission 16.00) Admission: £5.00 (of which £1 is donated to charity)

Robert Davison Robert Davison ‘Borders’ ‘Borders’

Sat 2 nd – Sun 31st July 2016

st July 2016 at The Museum in the Park Saturday 2nd – Sunday at The31Museum in the Park

Opening Weekend: WalledWalled Garden Previews & Flower Making & Opening Weekend: Garden Previews Saturday 2nd Sat & Sunday 3rd Sun July, 2pm 4pm 2pm–4pm Flower Making on 2nd & 3rd –July,

The Museum’s Walled Garden will be open to the public with flower making activities

The Museum’s Walled Garden will be open to the public with flower making activities for children and further paintings on display in the Pavilion.

for children and further paintings on display in the Pavilion. Enjoy a ‘preview’ of Stroud’s new garden, where newly planted borders are only just beginning to grow.

Meet the Artist: Sunday 10th July, 2pm – 4pm

th Meet thewith Artist onFestival Sunof10 July, 2pm–4pm To coincide Stroud Nature in Stratford Park,

Bob be in thewith Gallery to answer questions tell you about his work.

Towill coincide Stroud Festival ofand Nature inmore Stratford Park, The Museum in the Park, Stratford Park, Stroud GL5 4AF Tel: 01453 763394

Stratford Park, Stroud GL5 4AF Tel: 01453 763394 www.museuminthepark.org.uk www.museuminthepark.org.uk

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in Royal Leamington Spa during World War II. It was founded at the start of the war to develop camouflage for strategically important installations like factories, power stations and airfields. The exhibition presents the work of the camouflage staff against the backdrop of life on the Home Front, and includes an important group of paintings, watercolours and drawings loaned by national and regional galleries as well as private collections. It continues until 16 October. from Tuesday 26 July Aspects of Tunnicliffe at Nature in Art, Twigworth 01452 731422 / GL2 9PA / nature-in-art.org.uk A unique selection of work assembled in association with the Charles Tunnicliffe Society. Described by Sir Peter Scott as ’the greatest wildlife artist of the 20th century’, Tunnicliffe was a prolific and hugely influential artist. The exhibition continues until 4 September. until Sunday 31 July Harry Marshall & Zanna Goldhawk exhibition at Prema, Uley 01453 860703 / GL11 5SS / prema.org.uk Harry Marshall and Zanna Goldhawk are two young makers who met while studying illustration at the University of Gloucestershire. In 2014, they joined creative forces to set up their online company, Papio Press, which creates illustrated gifts and stationery. from Monday 15 August Synthesis at Gallery Pangolin, Chalford 01453 889765 / GL6 8NT / gallery-pangolin.com A summer exhibition bringing together a collection of abstract sculptures by four male and four female artists: Jon Buck, Lynn Chadwick, Ann Christopher, John Hoskin, Eilis O’Connell, Charlotte Mayer, Peter Randall-Page and Almuth Tebbenhoff. The exhibition continues until 4 September. throughout July & August Indulgence: Daily Delights of Georgian Bath at No.1 Royal Crescent, Bath 01225 428126 / BA1 2LR / bath-preservation-trust.org.uk An exhibition capturing daily life in Georgian

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Donald Duck in cowboy outfit at American Museum in Britain

England, in all its glorious excesses. The exhibition continues until 11 December. throughout July & August An American Toy Story at American Museum in Britain, Bath 01225 460503 / BA2 7BD / americanmuseum.org This exhibition tells the story of the games and toys that have been inspired by popular films. Movie props, vintage toys and memorabilia from various famous films are showcased – including James Bond, Star Wars, Snow White, Mickey Mouse, Frozen and Toy Story. The exhibition continues until 30 October. The American Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday (plus Mondays in August and Bank Holidays), from 12noon–5pm; the gardens and café are open from 10.30am. For further details, see our What’s On feature on pages 61–62. throughout July & August Planning for Peace: Redesigning Bath during WWI at Museum of Bath Architecture, Bath 01225 333895 / BA1 5NA / museumofbatharchitecture.org.uk In 1916, while Great Britain was in the middle of WWI, architect Robert Atkinson designed an

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WHAT’S ON: EXHIBITIONS & AUCTIONS extraordinary project to redevelop the city of Bath. Ambitious in scale, was this scheme mere propaganda to boost morale and project the confidence that war would soon be over? On display here, Atkinson’s unbuilt designs present a vision for peacetime Bath imagined during the realities of war. The exhibition continues until 27 November. throughout July & August A Room of their Own: Lost Bloombury Interiors at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath 01225 477233 / BA2 4AT / victoriagal.org.uk This exhibition aims to recreate several of the lost interiors on which Roger Fry, Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant worked in the first half of the 20th century. Bloomsbury Rooms reunites objects and paintings from private and public collections that have not been seen together for over 50 years. The exhibition continues until 4 September.

Museums Service’s half century. This exhibition showcases the county’s rich heritage through the memories, experiences and interests of people from across the county. throughout July & August Well Said! at PACCAR Room, RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk A visual feast of Shakespeare’s most memorable and inspiring lines: writers, actors and poets have selected their favourite quotes to be transformed into surprising and beautiful artworks. The exhibition features works by An Endless Supply, Gary Breeze, James Bulley, Gareth Courage, Freee, Paula Garfield, Jonny Hannah, Harrington & Squires, Lara Harwood, Soraya Syed, The Brilliant Sign Company and Karina Thompson. 

throughout July & August Outdoor Sculpture at The Elemental Sculpture Park, Somerford Keynes, near Cirencester 07927 028558 / GL7 6FE / elementalsculpturepark.com The Elemental Sculpture Park sits on a 10 acre site that has been transformed from a thistle field into a mixed deciduous and conifer woodland with ponds, gardens and glades. Here, you can see sculpture by up-and-coming artists as well as more established names. The park includes the work of over 70 sculptors, including Pam Foley, Luke Dickenson, John Jebb, Stephen Fox, Sarah Darcy, Simon Probyn, Bob Dawson, Natasha Houseago and a range of work by the Park’s founder, David Hartland. Throughout July and August, there is also an exhibition of art by Alan Steeves-Booker in the on-site Elemental Gallery.

For further details, see our What’s On feature on pages 63–64. throughout July & August Oxfordshire in 50 Objects at The Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock 01993 811456 / OX20 1SN / oxfordshire.gov.uk 50 objects, each telling a unique story, and brought together to celebrate Oxfordshire

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Torso by Sam Lucas at The Elemental Sculpture Park

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Performing AJuly–August rts Saturday 2 July – Saturday 16 July Iford Arts Festival: The Magic Flute at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon 01225 448844 / BA15 2BA / ifordarts.org.uk The Magic Flute remains one of the most popular operas in the repertory and it is also considered Mozart’s most transcendent and moving work.

It is sung here in English. Gates open at 6pm for picnics; the performance starts at 7.30pm. until Thursday 7 July Le Nozze di Figaro at Longborough Festival Opera, near Stow-on-the-Wold 01451 830292 / GL56 0QF / lfo.org.uk Based on Beaumarchais’ licentious play, this first in the trilogy of Mozart/Da Ponte operas marked a turning point in the history of the genre: it is a true opera of and about the Enlightenment.

Thursday 7 July – Saturday 9 July Dursley Operatic & Dramatic Society: Twelfth Night at Lister Hall, Dursley 07890 203318 / GL11 4JB / the-dods.com An abridged 90-minute version of Shakespeare’s much loved comedy. The plot centres on the mistaken identity of twins, Sebastian and Viola, who are separated after their ship is wrecked at sea.

Friday 8 July Rob Heron & The Tea Pad Orchestra live music at Prema, Uley 01453 860703 / GL11 5SS / prema.org.uk Newcastle-upon-Tyne based Rob Heron and his Tea Pad Orchestra have created “North Eastern Swing” – an amalgam of swing, blues, gypsy jazz and country music. Their music harks back to a golden age of 20th century American music whilst staying perfectly modern.

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Iford Arts Festival at Iford Manor

Friday 8 July & Saturday 9 July Madame Butterfly at Rondo Theatre, Bath 01225 444003 / BA1 6RT / rondotheatre.co.uk Puccini described this as his “most deeply-felt and imaginative” opera. Bath Opera’s production is sung in English.

Friday 8 July & Saturday 9 July Swap at The Theatre, Chipping Norton 01608 642350 / OX7 5NL / chippingnortontheatre.co.uk Brian Flowers and his wife Susan arrive at their house swapping summer vacation in Spain, only to discover they’ve unknowingly traded houses with a British gangster. The mess gets bigger and the clean-up gets sillier as ex-girlfriends, twin brothers and dead bodies all start piling up.

Tuesday 12 July – Saturday 23 July The Sound of Music at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham 01242 572573 / GL50 1HQ / everymantheatre.org.uk A new production of one of the greatest musicals of all time, based on Baroness Maria von Trapp’s 1949 autobiography. Songs include Edelweiss, My Favourite Things, Do-Re-Mi and the title song, The Sound of Music.

Wednesday 13 July James Toll recital at Pound Arts, Corsham 01249 701628 / SN13 9HX / poundarts.org.uk Since graduating from the Royal Northern College of Music in 2010, James has performed

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WHAT’S ON: PERFORMING ARTS as a principal instrumentalist with many of the UK’s finest ensembles using both historical and modern instruments.

Wednesday 13 July Jimmy Carr live comedy at Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa 01926 334418 / CV32 4AT / warwickdc.gov.uk Jimmy Carr’s The Best Of, Ultimate, Gold, Greatest Hits Tour gathers a selection of his best loved jokes along with new material.

Wednesday 13 July & Thursday 14 July My Kingdom for a Horse at Everyman Studio Theatre, Cheltenham 01242 572573 / GL50 1HQ / everymantheatre.org.uk My Kingdom for a Horse explores the myths surrounding the infamous Richard III. King of England for only two years, he remains the most fascinating of monarchs. Dickon Broom, Kentish peasant, part time bricklayer and maybe the last true heir to the Plantagenet throne, knew the truth about his King and now tells his tale.

Wednesday 13 July – Saturday 23 July Sweeney Todd at Loft Theatre, Leamington Spa 0844 493 4938 / CV31 3AA / loft-theatre.co.uk Benjamin Barker (alias Sweeney Todd) returns to the slums of 19th century London after 15 years of exile in Australia for a crime he didn’t commit. After he finds that his wife has killed herself after being raped by the brutal judge who sentenced him, Sweeney is consumed by grief and rage. He sets up as a barber and begins to murder unsuspecting customers, after which his accomplice Mrs Lovett bakes them into pies. Sondheim’s musical thriller is by turns shocking, moving and brutally funny.

Wednesday 13 July – Saturday 30 July While the Sun Shines at Theatre Royal, Bath 01225 448844 / BA1 1ET / theatreroyal.org.uk While the Sun Shines ran for over 1,000 performances in the West End in the early 1940s before transferring to Broadway. The leading critic of the day, James Agate, described it as “delightful, a little masterpiece”.

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Thursday 14 July Flamenco Incognito at Arc Theatre, Trowbridge 0845 299 0476 / BA14 0ES / arctheatre.org.uk Mi Flamenco is an international flamenco company whose new show, Flamenco Incognito, contains all the spirit of authentic flamenco, intertwined with the unexpected.

Friday 15 July & Saturday 16 July Much Ado About Nothing at Mary Arden’s Farm, Stratford-upon-Avon 01789 204016 / CV37 9HH / shakespeare.org.uk An outdoor performance by Madcap Theatre Company of one of Shakespeare’s finest comedies. While everyone is sure that Benedick and Beatrice are the perfect couple, it is going to take more than a dance to get them to admit it.

However, when something happens to push the two together, they find they have much bigger problems to face than each other.

Saturday 16 July – Saturday 23 July Jen˚ufa at Longborough Festival Opera, near Stow-on-the-Wold 01451 830292 / GL56 0QF / lfo.org.uk Written over a period of ten years and with the illness of his daughter Olga hanging over him, Janácˇek poured out his love for Olga through 

Longborough Festival Opera House

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the central character of Jen˚ ufa. Lee Bisset returns to LFO to sing the title role.

Sunday 17 July Edd Bateman live music at The Subscription Rooms, Stroud 01453 760999 / GL5 1AE / subscriptionrooms.org.uk Musicians from West African countries join Edd as he plays bass guitar and sings in English and the West African languages of Wolof and Mandinka. The songs range from love ballads to commentaries on the plight of West African refugees.

Monday 18 July – Saturday 23 July Mrs Shakespeare at The Bear Pit Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon 01789 403416 / CV37 6LU / thebearpit.org.uk This is a one woman comedy, performed by Irene Kelleher, in which William Shakespeare finds himself reincarnated in the present day as a woman. Mrs Shakespeare, finding herself in a mental asylum, comes to the conclusion that she has made a complete mess of writing Hamlet 400 years earlier. She embarks on a reformulation of theatre’s most famous text under the new title of ’Ophelia’ but her psychiatrist and the original characters of the play are so against the idea, they contrive between themselves to send her mad.

Picnicking at Bampton Classical Opera

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Wednesday 20 July The Remains of Tom Lehrer at Rondo Theatre, Bath 01225 444003 / BA1 6RT / rondotheatre.co.uk A performance by Adam Kay of the satirical songs of Tom Lehrer.

Thursday 21 July Murder on the Terrace at Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Cheltenham 01242 258002 / GL51 6HE / bacontheatre.co.uk This murder-mystery by David Kerby-Kendall is an interactive play with references to Downton Abbey and Agatha Christie: part romp, part farce. Suitable for ages 8+. This is an open air performance by Heartbreak Productions.

Thursday 21 July – Monday 1 August Giffords Circus: The Painted Wagon at The Fox Inn, Barrington 0845 459 7469 / OX18 4TB / giffordscircus.com This year’s Giffords Circus show is based on the Wild West and features many old favourites including Messrs Bibi and Bichu, and Tweedy the clown. Check online for details of all other venues and dates over the summer.

Friday 22 July & Saturday 23 July Bampton Classical Opera: Divine Comedies double bill at The Deanery Garden, Bampton 01993 851142 / OX18 2LL / bamptonopera.org This double bill performance starts with Gluck’s Philemon and Baucis, a one-act mythological opera written in 1769 for the wedding celebrations of Ferdinand, Duke of Genoa and the Archduchess Maria Amalia of Austria. A simple but charming plot tells of how Jupiter blesses the contented rustic couple Philemon and Baucis.

This première by Bampton Classical Opera is given in an English translation. The Gluck

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WHAT’S ON: PERFORMING ARTS is paired with Thomas Arne’s The Judgment of Paris, which was composed two decades earlier and is based on the famous classical myth.

A third performance is on Monday 29 August at The Orangery, Westonbirt School, near Tetbury (GL8 8QG).

Saturday 23 July – Wednesday 3 August Iford Arts Festival: A Fairy Queen at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon 01225 448844 / BA15 2BA / ifordarts.org.uk Tim Nelson has created a new performing version of Henry Purcell’s score which fuses it more closely with Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. A Fairy Queen is sung here in English.

Gates open at 6pm for picnics; the performance starts at 7:30pm.

Sunday 24 July The Charlie Chaplin Story at Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa 01926 334418 / CV32 4AT / warwickdc.gov.uk/royalspacentre This is a heart warming tale of the first true British icon of cinema. The story spans Chaplin’s younger years as a boy in Victorian Vaudeville London to the glitz of early Hollywood.

Saturday 30 July Last Night of the Shakespeare Proms at Stratford ArtsHouse, Stratford-upon-Avon 01789 207100 / CV37 6LU / stratfordartshouse.co.uk The Shakespeare 400 Anniversary season ends with an all English concert programme, including Parry’s Jerusalem, Henry Wood’s Fantasia on British Sea Songs, two of Elgar’s Pomp & Circumstance Marches and the composer’s popular Cello Concerto, with Laura van der Heijden as soloist.

turns upside down as fairies cause chaos, four young lovers fall in and out of love, and Bottom (played by comedian Phill Jupitus) and friends rehearse a play in celebration of a royal wedding.

Thursday 4 August Josh Widdicombe live comedy at Sundial Theatre, Cirencester 01285 654228 / GL7 1XA / sundial-theatre.co.uk Since he was last on tour, Widdicombe’s Channel 4 show The Last Leg has been nominated for several comedy awards and he has written and starred in his own sitcom, Josh, which is due to be broadcast this autumn. until Saturday 6 August The Alchemist at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratfordupon-Avon 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk When London is hit by an outbreak of the plague, the wealthy Lovewit flees to the country, leaving his townhouse in the hands of his trusted butler, 

WED 3 - SAT 6 AUGUST A family play to celebrate Beatrix Potter’s 150th Birthday.

All Tickets £10

MON 12 - SAT 17 SEPTEMBER Starring Gareth Gates and Maureen Nolan

Wednesday 3 August – Saturday 20 August A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Theatre Royal, Bath 01225 448844 / BA1 1ET / theatreroyal.org.uk This new production of Shakespeare’s best loved comedy commemorates Shakespeare’s 400th anniversary. On one summer’s night, the world everymantheatre.org.uk Box Office: 01242 572573

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Jeremy. But no sooner has his master left than the butler begins turning the house into a den of criminal activity. Polly Findlay directs Jonson’s amusing satire that revels in just how vain we humans can be.

Saturday 6 August Iford Arts Festival: The Final Fling at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon 01225 448844 / BA15 2BA / ifordarts.org.uk The final performance of Iford’s 2016 summer season features singer-songwriter Emily Saunders, swing band The Jive Aces and the FB Pocket Orchestra. Gates open at 6pm for picnics; the main band performances start at 7.30pm. until Saturday 13 August Hamlet at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk Hamlet has the world at his feet: he is young, wealthy and living a hedonistic life studying abroad. Then word reaches him that his father is dead. Returning home, he finds everything utterly changed and his certainties smashed. As relevant today as when it was written, Hamlet confronts each of us with the mirror of our own mortality in an imperfect world.

Saturday 13 August Wizard of Oz at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Stratford-upon-Avon 01789 201806 / CV37 6QW / shakespeare.org.uk Join Dorothy on her quest to the Emerald City as she and her loyal friends – the brainless but cheeky scarecrow, the cowardly lion and the heartless tin man – navigate through a magical land in search of the mysterious Wizard of Oz. This outdoor family performance (from 3:30pm) is by Immersion Theatre.

Sunday 14 August There’s No Place Like Home at Loft Theatre, Leamington Spa 0844 493 4938 / CV31 3AA / loft-theatre.co.uk Written by Sam Harris, the play transposes two well known characters from Alice in Wonderland and The Wizard of Oz: Alice is stuck in Oz and Dorothy finds herself in Wonderland. The production is

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Hamlet at RSC Theatre

by Made In 48 Hours, a not-for-profit theatre company that raises money for local charities. from Wednesday 17 August The Two Noble Kinsmen at RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk A Midsummer Night’s Dream meets Fight Club in Shakespeare and Fletcher’s rarely performed tragicomedy. Two best friends, knights at arms, are captured in battle and imprisoned. From their window, they see a beautiful woman and both fall instantly in love with her, turning them from friends into rivals. After their release, the stage is set for painful confusions in this study of the strangeness of love. from Saturday 20 August King Lear at RSC Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon 0844 800 1110 / CV37 6BB / rsc.org.uk Following his performance as Willy Loman in Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman, Antony Sher returns to play King Lear, one of the greatest parts written by Shakespeare.

Saturday 27 August The Wind in the Willows at Sandford Parks Lido, Cheltenham 01242 572573 / GL53 7PU / everymantheatre.org.uk Join Ratty, Mole and Badger as they explore the riverbank and try to contain the excitable Toad.

Adapted from the classic novel by Kenneth Grahame, five actors play a variety of characters, animals and woodland creatures in this amusing, family friendly show.

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WHAT’S ON: PERFORMING ARTS / EVENTS

EVEnts July–August Friday 1 July Oliver Cox talk at Wootton Village Hall, Woottonby-Woodstock OX20 1DZ / woottontalks.co.uk Oliver Cox, a historian based at Oxford University, talks about the work of the great landscape architect Lancelot “Capability“ Brown, whose 300th anniversary is celebrated in August. Brown is often referred to as “England’s greatest gardener” as he designed over 170 parks and gardens surrounding the finest country houses in Britain. until Saturday 2 July Oxford Festival of the Arts 01865 253505 / artsfestivaloxford.org Don’t miss the end of this two week celebration of culture and the arts at venues throughout Oxford.

The festival showcases music, literature, theatre, art, speaker events and workshops.

appeal is the award winning combination of family entertainment, activity arenas and 300 trade stands and food stalls, showcasing the best of the British countryside. Visitors can have a go at clay shooting, archery and ferret racing, or simply watch the experts at work in displays such as falconry, saddlery, beekeeping and wood carving.

Advance ticket prices for the Show are £11 (adult: age 15+) / £5.50 (child: age 3+) / £31 (family: two adults and up to three children). On the gate, tickets are £14 / £7 / £40, respectively. The show is open to visitors on both days from 9am–6pm.

Wednesday 6 July – Sunday 10 July Hartpury Festival of Dressage at Hartpury College, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE / hartpuryfestivalofdressage.co.uk This annual festival presents five days of top class dressage featuring an international line-up of riders: last year, for example, 400+ riders from 17 nations entered the festival. Saturday’s 

Saturday 2 July Taynton Traditional Garden Fête OX18 4UH Taynton’s biennial fête (2pm–5pm) is held in the garden of Taynton House. You can browse the stalls and play Splat The Rat, Beat The Goalie and the Duck Race along the stream. Refreshments include a BBQ, Pimm’s, afternoon tea and cakes.

Entrance is £2, free for children under 12 years.

All proceeds go to support the restoration of Taynton Church bells and Taynton Church.

Saturday 2 & Sunday 3 July The Cotswold Show & Food Festival at Cirencester Park 01749 813899 (advance tickets) / GL7 1XB (entrance via Deer Park School) / GL7 6JT (entrance via Cirencester Park Polo Grounds) / cotswoldshow.co.uk Now in its 28th year, this remains one of the Cotswolds’ most popular rural events. Its continuing

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Charlotte Dujardin OBE competing on Valegro at Hartpury’s Festival of Dressage 2015

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Cornbury Festival at Great Tew Park

Gala Evening is always the highlight of the festival: tickets, including day entry, are £16.50 in advance. Day entry is free on 6 and 7 July and £6 per person on 8, 9 and 10 July. To attend on the 8, 9 and 10, a combined ticket for the three days is £15 per person. Under-16s go free on all days, except for the Gala Evening event.

Thursday 7 July Sunset deer park walk at Dyrham Park, near Bath 0117 937 2501 / SN14 8ER / nationaltrust.org.uk This event provides exclusive access to the park after hours, which may be of particular interest to keen photographers. The leisurely guided walk around the park takes place as the ’golden hour’ sets in.

Thursday 7 July ’Behind the Scenes at BBC Gardeners’ World’ lunch, with Julie Dolphin at Barnsley House, near Cirencester 01285 740000 / GL7 5EE / barnsleyhouse.com Enjoy a two course garden-inspired lunch with Julie Dolphin, a horticultural researcher on the BBC’s flagship gardening programme Gardener’s

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World, who will talk about her role and how the programme is made. Lunch is served at 12noon.

Friday 8 July – Sunday 10 July Cornbury Festival at Great Tew Park, near Chipping Norton 0844 338 0000 / OX7 4AE / cornburyfestival.com The international line-up at the 13th Cornbury Music Festival includes Bryan Ferry, Jamie Cullum, All Saints, Corinne Bailey Rae, Seal, Booker T, The Shires, James Morrison and Bjorn Again. There are also performances by newcomers such as Port Isla, SIMO and The Dunwells. For further details, see our What’s On feature on pages 49–50.

Friday 8 July – Sunday 10 July The Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, near Lechlade 01285 713300 / GL7 4EG / airtattoo.com Few events can rival the drama and spectacle on offer at “the world’s greatest airshow”. The Air Tattoo is staged in support of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, a charity set up in 2005 to support the wider RAF family.

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WHAT’S ON: EVENTS Wednesday 10 August – Sunday 14 August Hartpury International Horse Trials at Hartpury College GL19 3BE / hartpuryhorsetrials.co.uk Hot on the heels of the Hartpury Festival of Dressage in June comes the NAF Five Star Hartpury International Horse Trials, which attracts many of the biggest names from the eventing world. Entry is free on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and tickets for Saturday and Sunday are £10 each, with free entry all week for under-16s.

For further details, see our What’s On feature on page 56.

Wednesday 13 July – Sunday 24 July Cheltenham Cricket Festival at Cheltenham College 01242 851092 / GL53 7AB / gloscricket.co.uk The Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival is an annual fixture on Cheltenham’s social and sporting calendar. At the 2016 festival, international cricket will be played at the historic Cheltenham College ground for the first time.

Supporters can look forward to two County Championship matches, one NatWest T20 Blast, Two Tourist matches including England Lions and one Royal London One-Day Cup match.

Friday 15 July – Sunday 17 July The Stratford-upon-Avon Home & Garden Show 01789 549199 / CV37 7DR / stratfordhomeandgardenshow.co.uk The show is held in the centre of Stratfordupon-Avon, at The Recreation Ground.

It features 200+ exhibitors, all handpicked for the quality of their products for home and garden. For further details, see our What’s On feature on page 52.

Saturday 16 July Festival of British Archaeology at Avebury Manor and Garden 01672 539153 / SN8 1RF / nationaltrust.org.uk With a wealth of history and archaeological discoveries, Avebury World Heritage Site is a fascinating place to visit during the

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Festival of British Archaeology. There are tours around the Henge (£3 per person) on most days.

Sunday 17 July Classic Cars at Newark Park, Wotton-under-Edge 01453 842644 / GL12 7PZ / nationaltrust.org.uk The annual classic car show returns to Newark Park, with an accompanying classic car themed exhibition on the top floor of Newark House.

Friday 22 July – Sunday 31 July 46th Guiting Music Festival, Guiting Power 01386 584943 / GL54 5TX / guitingfestival.org Guiting Music Festival presents performances of classical, Jazz and folk music by artists from around the world. Joanna MacGregor, the GMF’s Honorary President, is playing the opening concert on Friday 22 July and that is followed by the festival’s new Jazz Weekend. To attract a younger audience, there are also two new matinee concerts this year and there are free tickets to all concerts for anyone aged 18 or under.

Friday 22 July – Sunday 24 July UK Game Fair at the National Agricultural and Exhibition Centre, Stoneleigh Park 01926 339808 / CV8 2LZ / ukgamefair.com Leading brands and personalities from the world of field sports, countryside pursuits and the 

The Stratford-upon-Avon Home & Garden Show

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WHAT’S ON: EVENTS rural life are set to attend this inaugural fair.

The focus is on shooting, fishing, hunting, gamekeeping, estate management, rural crafts, working dogs and food production, along with chef demonstrations, tastings and competitions.

Monday 25 July – Saturday 30 July Cirencester Children’s Book Week 01285 650677 (Octavia’s Bookshop) / octaviasbookshop.co.uk Funded by the Bingham Library Trust and organised by Gloucestershire Library Service and Octavia’s Bookshop, Book Week is now in its fourth year. This summer, award winning authors and illustrators are bringing a great mix of children’s tales to Cirencester, catering to each age group. Tickets for many events are expected to sell out, so early booking is recommended.

Thursday 28 July Danny, Champion of the World at Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham 01249 730459 / SN15 2LG / nationaltrust.org.uk Join in the fun at this outdoor production of Roald Dahl’s touching story about the adventures of a young boy and his father.

Friday 29 July Stubbs and the Wild: Study Afternoon workshop at Holburne Museum, Bath 01225 388588 / BA2 4DB / holburne.org Referencing the current exhibition, Stubbs and the Wild, at Holburne Museum, curator Amina Wright provides an introduction to George Stubbs and

Countryfile Live at Blenheim Palacw

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UK Game Fair at the NAEC, Stoneleigh Park

his animals. Gaye Blake-Roberts, curator at the Wedgwood Museum, talks about the productive collaboration between Stubbs and Josiah Wedgewood, and author Tim Clayton describes why Stubbs taught himself printmaking and he traces Stubbs’ subsequent fascination with the medium. The cost of the study afternoon includes admission to the exhibition.

Saturday 30 July Cooper Car Company’s 70th Anniversary Celebration at Prescott Hill, Gotherington, near Cheltenham 01242 673136 / GL52 9RD / prescott-hillclimb.com 2016 marks the 70th anniversary of the Cooper Car Company and to celebrate this milestone the Cooper Car Club has joined forces with the Bugatti Owners’ Cub to organise a celebration of Cooper Cars. Over 70 Coopers are congregating at Prescott, many of which are competing in classes for Sports and Formula Cars, or demonstration runs. Special guests include John Cooper’s son Michael with the ex-Jackie Stewart Cooper-BMC T72, plus racing legend Barry ’Whizzo’ Williams, the first driver to win an international rally in a Mini Cooper S in 1964. Tickets are from £12 (advance) / £15 (on the gate).

Thursday 4 August – Sunday 7 August Countryfile Live at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock 020 7886 3098 / OX20 1PP / countryfilelive.com Countryfile’s presenters are co-hosting the first BBC Countryfile Live with the National Trust. 

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Chastleton Cutting Garden • “Westonbirt is the finest ensemble of Victorian architecture, landscape and gardens in the Cotswolds”.

(Country Life)

‘...from garden to vase’

• Grade 1 Listed House and Gardens • Private tours of the House by arrangement – see contact details below • House tours include afternoon tea overlooking our spectacular gardens and a leisurely walk around our formal gardens and grounds • Gardens only open for ad hoc individual visits Tues, Weds and Thurs 2-5pm, April to October.

For information on opening times visit:

www.holfordtrust.com For bookings contact: Jo Baker

Tel: 0166 01666 881 373 Email: jbaker@holfordtrust.com

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Open Thurs - Sat 2nd June - 30 Sept 1 Blue Row, The Lane, Chastleton GL56 0SY tel. 01608 674434 email cottercraig@btintnet.com

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WHAT’S ON: EVENTS of high quality bespoke furniture and every year it draws visitors and exhibitors from around the world. The emphasis is on furniture, but each year this is complemented by work from several other disciplines such as jewellery, art and glass.

For further details, see our What’s On feature on pages 57–58.

Dragon Kre by Chaircreative at Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design

It is set to be one of the UK’s biggest outdoor events and combines the traditions of county fairs with a festival vibe. For further details, see our What’s On feature on page 55.

Friday 5 August – Sunday 7 August The 42nd Gloucestershire Vintage & Country Extravaganza at South Cerney Airfield, Cirencester 01453 890891 / GL7 5QB / glosvintageextravaganza.co.uk This is one of the UK’s biggest events celebrating steam and vintage vehicles. It also has a Countryside Arena featuring a dog show, ferret racing, rare breeds, animal conservation, alpacas, shire horses, horse logging, falconry displays and children’s pony rides.

Friday 26 August – Sunday 28 August The Big Feastival at Alex James’ Farm, Kingham 0844 995 9673 / OX7 6UJ / thebigfeastival.com The Big Feastival is celebrating its fifth birthday at Alex James’ farm and again presents a winning combination of food, music and family fun.

The music acts this year include Mark Ronson, Kaiser Chiefs and Mercury Prize nominee Roisin Murphy. Foodie stars span Jamie Oliver and Michelin Star masters Raymond Blanc and Tom Kerridge to previous British Street Food Awards winners Original Patty Men and The Cauldron.

For further details, see our What’s On feature on pages 59–60.

Sunday 28 August & Monday 30 August NGS Open Garden at Aston Pottery, near Bampton 01993 851877 / OX18 2BT / astonpottery.co.uk Aston Pottery’s famous gardens are in full flower during July and August. You can take a stroll down the Hornbeam Walk, which has the vibrant Hot Bank adorning the foot of the pathway, and the pottery’s traditional Perennial Border and Dahlia Garden are other ’must see’ areas.

Friday 5 August – Sunday 7 August The Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe Park, Minchinhampton 01423 339423 / GL6 9AT / gatcombe-horse.co.uk The Festival of British Eventing provides a weekend of top class eventing, plus there is a shopping village, arena attractions such as The Devil’s Horsemen Cossack Riders and entertainment for all the family.

Saturday 20 August – Monday 29 August Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design at Cheltenham College 02392 160761 / GL53 7LD / celebrationofcraftsmanship.com This has become the UK’s largest selling exhibition

The gardens at Aston Pottery, near Bampton

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property&home

PROPERTY FEATURE: ECO LIVING HIGHLIGHTED PROPERTIES EDITOR’S CHOICE: INTERIORS GARDENS FEATURE: GOURMET GARDENS GARDEN DESIGN TIPS BY… FI BOYLE Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

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Living

ECO

Eco-friendly homes have two key benefits: a reduced carbon footprint and lower energy bills.

What’s not to like? Here, Sally Bult considers some of the best ways to go about making your home more energy efficient…

Sporn Construction

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property feature… ECO LIVING When purchasing a house, it is important to check the EPC or Energy Performance Certificate. This tells you how energy efficient the property is and what changes can be made to improve its rating.

If these kinds of details make your eyes glaze over, just think of their impact on your heating bills and the potential benefits to the environment.

Whether a property is a new build, a historic property or a blend of the two through renovation or extension, there is a wide gambit of ’eco solutions’, the correct implementation of which can create a more eco-friendly home.

One local example of a purpose built ecofriendly home is Fistral in Milbourne, Wiltshire. Built in 2013, this timber framed, modular eco-home was constructed using a closed panel timber frame system incorporating high strength timber glulam [glued laminated] structural elements, clad in sustainably sourced Siberian Larch. It is a highly thermally efficient building envelope, well insulated, with the effective use of passive solar gain through the large floor-to-ceiling windows, and zone-controlled to maximise seasonal heating variations. A Mitsubishi Ecodan air source heat pump and cylinder, coupled with roof mounted solar thermal panels, provides efficient central heating, hot water and zoned wet underfloor heating throughout.

Sporn Construction in Bicester is a leading example of a building firm committed to providing ’green’ solutions to reduce the carbon footprint of its construction projects. Robin Sporn, the company’s Director, says, “To be a truly ecofriendly home, the construction journey as a whole must be considerate to the environmental impact of the building process. Considerate construction must therefore prioritize the re-use of existing materials where possible, the efficient recycling of waste, sourcing of local materials and the maintenance of the highest standards of Health & Safety practices, to the benefit not only of the employees and potentially clients on site, but neighbouring properties and the wider community as a whole.

“When thinking of eco-friendly homes, most people will consider the innovative green energy solutions which are available in numerous variations to suit individual needs. However, true ’Green Construction’ starts at a very basic level.

“The starting point is the consideration of how the fabric of the building itself can conserve energy.

By optimising the building fabric, you can achieve reliable and lasting energy performance.

“The initial design will focus on the type of construction – traditional or timber frame or something more innovative. Timber frame can be a simple structure, hidden from view, utilising traditional studwork, Eco Joists, SIPS panels (Structural Insulated Panels) or a more complex intricate oak frame, which adds to the interior architecture of the building.”

Good insulation is always a priority and ’superinsulation’ is an approach to building design, construction and retrofitting that dramatically reduces heat loss (and gain) by using much higher levels of insulation and air tightness than normal.

Superinsulation is one of the predecessors of the PassivHaus approach, which refers to a rigorous and detailed standard for energy efficiency in a building, reducing its ecological footprint.

It results in ultra-low energy buildings that require little energy for space heating or cooling.

A PassivHaus is often considered the pinnacle of eco-friendly home construction, but it does have cost implications due to the complexity of the work required to achieve such high standards of energy efficiency.

If PassivHaus status is your ultimate goal, it is vital that you engage a design team and building contractor with the correct eco credentials.

Attention to details such as thermal bridging, the connection between floors, walls and ceilings, and indeed the integrity of the system as a whole, should be carried out by master craftsmen who are well versed in green building techniques. This approach can only be achieved through careful detailing and execution: it cannot be ’bolted on’ at a later date.

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To be a truly eco-friendly home, the construction journey as a whole must be considerate to the environmental impact of the building process…

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property feature… ECO LIVING It is worth noting that where once eco-friendly buildings faced considerable technological restrictions, resulting in design compromises, such homes can now be sleek and sophisticated. For example, the ultra-modern ’Glass Box’ architecture, with its prolific use of large structural glass panels, is at the cutting edge of eco design. Since structural glass is engineered to be load-bearing, it can be used to create a completely clear, frameless extension space without visible metal supports. Glass panels can now also include an insulated core and achieve U values as low as 0.17.

With the fabric of the building and its insulation values carefully considered, these solid eco foundations can be built upon with the addition of green energy solutions such as wind turbines, ground source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels for generating electricity, wood pellet burners etc.

It is worth researching the availability of grants and economic incentives if you are considering these options. For example, the Government incentive known as the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) offers funding for the installation of biomass boilers, solar water heating and certain heat pumps, based on the amount of renewable heat made by your heating system.

One green energy solution is the Ecco stove, a masonry stove manufactured in Warwickshire which is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to steel or cast iron stoves. The concept is simple: create a high combustion temperature for maximum efficiency then channel the waste gases through heat absorbent material to reduce the amount of heat lost to the atmosphere.

This idea of a masonry heater is an age-old concept, going back hundreds of years in parts of Europe and North America. It has many benefits including balanced heat distribution, lower chimney maintenance requirements and reduced loading times – from as few as two fires a day to heat your living area. It’s also a safer option if you have children or pets as it has a much lower surface temperature than steel or cast iron stoves.

Another option for green energy generation is to harness wind power. Giles and Lucy Jackson,

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An Ecco stove

who live near Northleach, put up a domestic wind turbine three years ago. Lucy says, “We started looking into alternative energies when we were thinking about renovating our house. As we are quite exposed where we live and get a lot of wind, it made sense to put up a wind turbine to provide us with our electricity. It does subsidise our domestic electricity (which is just as well with two daughters!) and provides us with a small income that should pay for it over the years.

“Although feelings were mixed locally, we are glad we went ahead. We are glad that we took the punt, although it was a lot of hassle. As you know, it is not every one’s cup of tea.”

The popularity of eco-friendly homes is certainly growing steadily in the UK. As Keith Maslin from Blount & Maslin Estate Agents in Malmesbury says, “There is a strong demand for energy efficient homes and currently there are very few available.” Given the latest advances in energy efficient construction technologies and green energy solutions, there has never been a better time to set about improving your home’s eco-friendliness.

Contact details: Blount & Maslin: 01666 825725 / SN16 9AT / blount-maslin.co.uk Ecco Stove: 01527 857814 / B80 7AX / eccostove.com RHI: gov.uk/domestic-renewable-heat-incentive Sporn Construction: 01869 277222 / OX27 9AU / spornconstruction.com

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

Specialists in alternative heating.

01608 819088 www.heatstoreltd.co.uk

Two showrooms–

Warwickshire and Oxfordshire

Wood, Multi-fuel, Gas and Electric Stoves and Range Cookers We provide a high quality service at sensible prices with long term support.

With over 25 years of experience our team can guide you through the process to get the solution you are looking for.

Home of the Ecco Stove ®– Wraps your home in warmth.

The Heat Store Ltd Oxfordshire Showroom Chapmans House, Church St, Charlbury OX7 3PP Tel: 01608 819088 Warwickshire Showroom Foster House, 2 Redditch Road, Studley B80 7AX Tel:Cotswold 01527preview 853622 JULY– AUGUST 16

Whole home heating no plumbing, air ducting or power supply required

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WITTS COTTAGE, BIBURY

Guide price: £595,000

A delightful Grade II Listed detached, stone built cottage set on this sought after Green in the picturesque Cotswold village of Bibury. The cottage benefits from refurbishment by the current owner and enjoys generous mature gardens.

Contact: Teresa Davis 01285 648100

Three Bedrooms · Sitting Room · Kitchen/Diner · Garden Room · Study · Family Bathroom · Utility · Gardens · Driveway with Parking 90

mooreallen.co.uk

Cirencester 01285 648100 Lechlade 01367 252541 JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

ROSE COTTAGE, NEAR LECHLADE Rose Cottage is an attractive period property enjoying a southerly aspect over its well-tended gardens. Traditionally constructed of natural stone elevations, the cottage enjoys considerable charm and was the subject of a recent sympathetic double storey extension.

Guide price: £497,500 Contact: Lynda Larner 01367 252541

Three Bedrooms · Kitchen/Breakfast Room · Dining Room · Sitting Room · 2 Bathrooms · Parking

mooreallen.co.uk

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

Cirencester 01285 648100

Lechlade 01367 252541 91

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HIGHLIGHTED PROPERTY

Carlton Street

Cheltenham GL52 6AQ

Linden Villa

A stunning period townhouse finished to the highest standards and situated within Cheltenham town centre.

Location: Cheltenham Accommodation: Open plan living with sitting room, lounge, kitchen/dining room, wc, master bedroom with en suite bathroom, wc, further three bedrooms, bathroom and shower room.

Outside: Rear garden and off-road parking.

Price: ÂŁ850,000 Tel: 01242 321091 Email: info@elliotoliver.co.uk

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Foxholes

Cotswold tranquillity in a magical woodland setting: positively unique…

Location: Chipping Norton Accommodation: Entrance hall, drawing room, dining hall, sitting room, study, kitchen/ breakfast room, laundry room, larder, utility/boot room, cloakroom, seven bedrooms, dressing room and three bathrooms.

Outside: Detached pavilion/studio ideal for summer entertaining/working from home/ gym, extensive gardens, outdoor heated swimming pool, grass tennis court, various garden stores, greenhouse, pond, traditional English broadleaf woodland (SSSI) of about 4.95 acres and paddock grazing of about 8.43 acres.

In all about 14.5 acres Guide Price: £2,750,000 Tel: 01295 228002 Email: nrudge@savills.com

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HIGHLIGHTED PROPERTY

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HIGHLIGHTED PROPERTY

Unicorn Cottage A stunning recently renovated detached three bedroom cottage in a peaceful Cotswold village location.

Location: Great Rollright Accommodation: Sitting room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, shower room, three bedrooms and bathroom.

Outside: Garage and courtyard.

Guide Price: £450,000 Tel: 01865 510000 Email: oxford@butlersherborn.co.uk Unicorn Cottage, High Street\nGreat Rollright, Chipping Norton,OX5R Approximate Gross Internal Area Main House = 1080 Sq Ft/100 Sq M Garage = 153 Sq Ft/14 Sq M Total = 1233 Sq Ft/114 Sq M

Area Excludes 'Courtyard' Cotswold previewQuoted JULY– AUGUST 16

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HIGHLIGHTED PROPERTY

College Barn A beautifully renovated barn conversion with a landscaped garden in a desirable North Cotswold village.

Location: Temple Guiting Accommodation: Entrance hall, drawing room, kitchen/dining room, second reception room/ bedroom, pantry, shower room, master bedroom, guest bedroom with en suite shower room, further bedroom and bathroom.

Outside: Garden, carport and private parking.

Price: ÂŁ825,000 Tel: 01451 830731 Email: ophie@butlersherborn.co.uk

E

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HIGHLIGHTED PROPERTY

SEARLES PROPERTY CONSULTANCY

A very charming Cotswold stone cottage in this pretty village.

Location: Quenington Accommodation: Sitting room with open fire, dining hall, eat-in kitchen with separate utility room, new conservatory/garden room, two double bedrooms, a single bedroom and a bathroom.

Outside: Garden with garden store (garden maintenance is included in the rent).

Situation: Unfurnished. EPC Band E. Price: £1400pcm Tel: 07887 888686 Email: soffisearle@btinternet.com Tenant Reference Fee: £45 Company Reference Fee: £60 Tenant Admin Fee: £100 (inclusive of VAT)

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HIGHLIGHTED PROPERTY

Rex House

A meticulously restored Grade II listed period house with delightful gardens and grounds.

Location: Willersey Accommodation: Entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast/family room, study, pantry, utility room, wc, cellar, four bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, further bedroom and shower room.

Outside: Outbuilding with triple garage, gymnasium, shower, sauna, games room and cinema room. Courtyard, terrace and gardens.

Price: OIEO ÂŁ1,250,000 Tel: 01386 858510 Email: thomasmiles@haymanjoyce.co.uk

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HIGHLIGHTED PROPERTY

Kings House An impressive and spacious detached Cotswold stone property located on the edge of the village.

Location: Long Compton Accommodation: Entrance hall, sitting room, family room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom. Master bedroom with en suite, guest bedroom with en suite, two further bedrooms and family bathroom.

Outside: Gardens, parking and garage.

Price: ÂŁ650,000 Tel: 01451 600610 Email: stowonthewold@knightfrank.com

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Broadsword Security Services 5 Essex House, Cromwell Business Park, Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16 Chipping Norton, Oxon OX7 5SR

phone: 01608 641670 email: sales@broadswordsecurity.com 103 visit: www.broadswordsecurity.com

Off Leckhampton Road, Cheltenham, GL53 0BS

Imagery includes optional upgrades at additional cost

HAVE YOU SEEN OUR NEW SHOW HOME? Crest Nicholson are delighted to announce that our brand new Show Home has now launched!

This light and airy home boasts stunning, modern interiors and an open plan layout, which demonstrates how flexible the living spaces are at Leckhampton Place. Whether you want to create your own relaxation room out of one of the bedrooms or build the perfect entertaining space in the kitchen, these homes have been designed to fit around your lifestyle.

This exclusive development is just two miles* away from the Cheltenham town centre, a variety of shops, restaurants and bars are within easy reach as are good transport links, with the M5 and Cheltenham Spa Station nearby.

Want a bigger, better home but don’t have a big deposit to support you? Then Help to Buy can help. Whether you choose the Equity Loan or Mortgage Guarantee scheme, you’ll only need a 5% deposit.

Call a Sales Advisor today and book an appointment to take a look around our stunning new Show Home.

3 & 4 bedroom homes priced from £445,000 Just £356,000 with Help to Buy* Selling Agents: Knight Frank Estate Agents 123 Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 1NW

crestnicholson.com/leckhamptonplace

01242 509649

*Help to Buy is available on the purchase of your primary residence up to the value of £600,000. You must fund a minimum of 80% of the purchase price. The equity loan will need to be repaid when the property is sold or after 25 years i.e. up to 20% of the property’s total sale price. You will also require adequate funds to cover legal costs and moving fees. To be eligible you must meet the criteria set down by this Government scheme, details of which are available from the Crest Nicholson sales advisor. The amount of deposit required may vary depending on the scheme rules and the lender for the mortgage finance. If you are in any doubt about this scheme please seek independent advice. Crest Nicholson does not provide mortgages and cannot give any financial advice. Distances taken from taken from Google Maps. Show JULY– Home photography.

Pricing correct 26.05.16. preview 104 AUGUST 16 on Cotswold Crest Nicholson South West, a division of Crest Nicholson Operations Ltd, Crest House, Lime Kiln Road, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 8ST. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY DEBT SECURED ON IT.

advertorial… PROPERTY COMMENT

Unlock your dream home at Leckhampton Place with Help-to-Buy

Imagery includes optional upgrades at additional cost

With the summer season finally here, it may be time to make that move onto the property ladder. Look no further than Leckhampton Place, award winning house builder Crest Nicholson’s development in Cheltenham…

The award winning housebuilder Crest Nicholson is giving prospective buyers the chance to take those all-important steps onto the property ladder, with just a 5% deposit giving them the keys to their new home. Whether you’re a first time buyer or an existing home owner wanting to move up the property ladder, Help-to-Buy will get you moving.

Situated to the south of Cheltenham, Leckhampton Place comprises a bespoke mix of two and three bedroom apartments and three and four bedroom houses, set in a desirable cul-desac with access via a private road. Designed for modern living, its contemporary features make for an attractive home.

Six exclusive apartments are now available in this development, including a luxurious penthouse ideal for professional couples and

downsizers. The two bedroom apartments boast generous sized living and dining areas, master bedrooms complete with an en suite bathroom, and a second bedroom and bathroom perfect for when family and friends stay over.

H Built to the highest specification, these apartments offer premium features and Crest innovative Nicholson a appliances with light and space at the forefront of airy hom This light and at Leckham the design. The homes at Leckhamptonspaces Placeare are perfect en complemented by the surrounding garden plots This exclusive developm and green areas, perfect for summer days and within leisurely strolls.

Want a bigger, better Leckhampton Place is located within close proximity to a whole host of boutiques, antique shops, cafés and lively pubs. It is less than a mile from the popular Bath Road shopping area and under two miles from the town centre.

Se

For more information, please contact Crest Nicholson: 01242 509649 / crestnicholson.com/leckhamptonplace

crestnicholson.com Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

*Help to Buy is available on the purchas be repaid when the property is sold or 105 eligible you must meet the criteria set do vary depending on the scheme rules an provide mortgages and cannot give an Crest Nicholson South West, a division o

Editor’s Choice… INTERIORS

We are big fans of the Danish interiors brand HAY, which has chosen Bath as the location for its UK flagship store. The furniture and accessories reflect a Scandinavian design heritage but with a very contemporary twist: all the designs are distinctively HAY. Pictured here is the new Hay Design Colour Carpet – Scholten & Baijings’s first rug collection for the brand. Made from 100% New Zealand wool, it measures 170 x 240cm and is available in six colourways. HAY: 01225 461409 / BA1 1DN / hay.dk

Editor’s Choice

A selection of our favourite design destinations…

If you’re in Bath, be sure to stop by Anthropologie too. This huge store is just around the corner from HAY and is another great source for home accessories. The American design brand is perhaps best known for its casual fashion lines but the home collections channel the same vibes of boho chic. We particularly rate the kitchenware and soft furnishings, which are very fairly priced. Anthropologie: 01225 335578 / BA1 1BE / anthropologie

Beaumont & Brown, purveyor of “the best bed linen in the world”, has just opened a shop in Cirencester. We haven’t done a touch-test comparison with Frette but we have to agree that Beaumont & Brown’s bedding and the luxurious white towels and robes are rather lovely. Beaumont & Brown: 01285 655324 / GL7 1JH / beaumontbrown.com

One of our favourite North Cotswold interior destinations is the recently opened Cotswold Grey, in Moreton-in-Marsh (so much so that self-imposed visiting restrictions may be required). The large and diverse range of furniture, lighting and accessories is unified by that rare talent: “a good eye for design”. The garden is now open, too, with a selection of outdoor stock. If you haven’t been yet, go.

Cotswold Grey: 01608 650446 / GL56 0AE / cotswoldgrey.com

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The kitchen garden at Cogges Manor Farm

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gardens feature… GOURMET GARDENS

Gourmet

Gardens Whether you’re growing herbs in a pot or planting an elaborate potager, the feeling of achievement can be just as enjoyable as the tasty crops themselves. On the following pages, leading garden designers from across Cotswold provide their tips for successful kitchen gardening…

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

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Paul Hervey-Brookes

A productive garden landscaped

by Cotswold Estates and Gardens

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For more than 6,000 years, the British have been cultivating vegetables, including cabbage, asparagus, kale and leeks. The Romans then introduced many tender fruits and vegetables, such as peaches, mulberries, almonds, pears, quince and grapes, which require more protection from the vagaries of our weather.

Even in medieval times, walled gardens, with their warmer microclimate, were a feature of some monasteries and manors. By the mid-15th century, they were routinely dedicated to the production of fruit and vegetables. Walled kitchen gardens then reached their peak in the 19th century as new industrial and horticultural techniques came in.

For example, cheaper glass and elaborate heating systems allowed out-of-season fruit, vegetables and flowers to be produced.

Landscape manager and horticulturalist Sarah Cotter Craig is enthusiastic about kitchen gardens. In 2012, she co-ordinated an Oxfordshire Gardens Trust lottery-funded research project charting the history of over 200 walled kitchen gardens in the county. Her research included the famous kitchen garden at Rousham, which is one of Oxfordshire’s earliest examples, dating from the 17th century.

It used to be that a one acre garden could supply vegetables for up to 12 people and be managed by one gardener.

However, by the end of World War II, there was a decline in the number of productive walled gardens in the UK as a result of more readily available fruit and vegetables, higher labour costs and social reform.

Today, those original walled kitchen gardens have a variety of uses: some have been turned into ornamental gardens, such as at Buscot Park near Faringdon. Others are still in partial production, including at Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, where the west end of the garden is used to produce fruit and vegetables for the house,

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

gardens feature… GOURMET GARDENS Raised beds 40cm high, 60cm deep

Herb bed

Hedge 1.8m high

The plans for a kitchen garden

by Daniel Mogridge

steps down

Gravel paths

whilst the east end is now a children’s playground.

At Cogges Manor Farm, near Witney, volunteers have recently restored the kitchen garden to full productive use, and the walled gardens at Adderbury and Ruskin Hall have been converted into allotments for local residents to use.

Nowadays, few of us have these large-scale areas set aside to grow vegetables. But if you do want to grow your own, a vast garden isn’t actually necessary. With a little motivation and imagination, there is enormous scope for success even in the smallest spaces. A windowbox or even pots on the windowsill can produce enough culinary herbs for a household.

Paul Hervey-Brookes, plantsman and garden designer from Allomorphic in Stroud, advises, “Remember that containers in small spaces can be highly productive. Endive, combined with chives and perennial fennel, makes a wonderful textural green combination and provides produce for a number of dishes. If space is at a premium, then we always suggest growing what is expensive to buy: don’t grow lettuce, which can be purchased for pence, but instead thai coriander, flat leaved parsley or micro-leaves, which add sophistication

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

Green House

Hedge 1.2m high

and beauty to dishes.”

Vegetable gardens do lend themselves to a formal style, and traditionally a potager would have seen flowers and herbs planted together for both aesthetic and practical reasons. Alex Brotherton from Cotswold Estates & Gardens in Cirencester suggests, “Herbs add to the structure of the garden and can be used to provide fragrance and flavour whilst facilitating divisions between crops.

Consider the use of edible flowers as a means of adding another dimension to your food, bringing colour to your beds and deterring unwanted pests.

Try English Marigold (Calendula officinalis), which is free flowering and useful in preventing aphids whilst attracting predatory hoverflies. Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) are also known for their pest preventative properties as well as the leaves being used to add a peppery kick to salads.”

Paul Hervey-Brookes suggests growing runner beans as archways (rather than the more usual wigwams) to enable companion planting and yield more produce per bed.

The key to any planting is careful planning. A site should be sheltered and south facing if possible, with the tallest structures and crops farthest 4

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from the sun so as not to shadow consecutive crops. Cheltenham based garden designer Daniel Mogridge says, “Hedges are great for filtering damaging winds, but again don’t have them too tall. If you are growing directly in the ground, you will need enough beds to ‘rotate’ crops (crops have four basic characteristics; leafy, fruiting, rooting and legumes [nitrogen producing, which enriches the soil]). Avoid growing vegetables with the same character in the same bed on consecutive years. This will help manage soil nutrients, pathogens and pests. If you have great soil, lucky you! If not, a great way to improve this is with raised beds as you can import better soil to targeted areas.

“Root vegetables, for instance, will grow funny arm and legs if the soil is too stoney, which is all very well with often amusing results, but it does make them much harder to prep for eating. Raised beds or not, avoid making them wider than 1.2m, or 60cm if

’’

Creating a vegetable or kitchen garden is doubly rewarding as it not only gives you great pleasure but great produce too…

’’

only accessible from one side, as we can comfortably reach about 60cm in before we must take a step.

Remember to allow yourself room to move, or pass a wheelbarrow between the beds too.”

This point is echoed by Alex Brotherton who suggests that, ideally, paths should be landscaped, as those of a soil composition will become sticky in wetter periods. He also believes that you don’t have to plant in the straight rows typical of vegetable patches: blocks of vegetables surrounded by herbs and flowering beds are worth consideration.

Colour introduces interest to a garden and Alex adds, “If you have suitable structures, use climbing

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A planting by Paul Hervey-Brookes

crops with interesting colours to provide height and depth to the garden. Borlotto Supremo Nano and Hildora are interesting dwarf French bean varieties that produce red and yellow beans respectively.

F1 Modus and Gardener’s Delight offer great tasting, attractive cherry tomatoes that will happily grow up bamboo supports. Consider heritage or interesting varieties to give you colour and texture that differ from ‘the norm’, and experiment with colourful varieties of beetroot, carrot, chard, cauliflower and cabbage. Trailing plants such as strawberries will happily grow and spread along the fronts of the raised beds, helping to soften the sleepers or walls.”

This careful planning before you start planting will reap dividends. As Paul Hervey-Brookes says, “New gardeners and those who fall in love with the idea of freshly grown home produce often end up with bumper crops of a few vegetables and very little of the variety they imagined. It’s a simple mistake, in part made up of the excitement of growing edibles and the inexperience of planning for successive crops.”

For inspiration, it is well worth visiting local National Trust properties as many have wonderful kitchen gardens. Hidcote Manor, Chastleton, Upton Park and Snowshill all have different sized areas, and can provide ideas for what grows well in different areas of the Cotswolds.

You can start your growing at any time from mid-spring through the summer and at any scale.

As Daniel Mogridge advises, “If you are setting

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

gardens feature… GOURMET GARDENS out a large kitchen garden, you may find it easier to do the ground work during the colder months.

Once established, even the colder months are not barren as there are plenty of evergreen and winter herbs and vegetables to keep the appeal and the produce coming.”

Sarah Cotter Craig adds, “It is never too late to start growing your own vegetables, and you certainly don’t need a walled kitchen garden!

I always grow vegetables that taste better straight from the garden, such as peas, French beans, potatoes, carrots and salad leaves. As I have very little space in my garden, I grow climbing peas and beans up a tee-pee of hazel poles in among the flower beds. All you need for salad leaves is a small gap in plants at the front of the border, and some of the straightest carrots I have grown were in an old recycling bin.”

It’s also a great idea to get children involved in growing their own vegetables. The Royal Horticultural Society cites academic research that suggests children perform better at school if they are involved with gardening and many will develop

a greater interest in healthy eating if they get to grow their own vegetables. They suggest starting off by growing quick and tasty edible plants, including swiss chard Bright Lights, radish, lettuce, courgettes and runner beans.

A final suggestion is from Sarah Cotter Craig: “Last year, I created a small salad garden, for children, out of old soup tins. All you need to do is make a few holes in the bottom of the tin, cover the base with gravel, fill the tin up with compost and sow with a salad leaf mix, basil or micro-herbs. The children can paint the tins to their own designs and then keep them on the kitchen windowsill.”

Contact details: Allomorphic: 01453 767498 / GL5 1BB / allomorphic.co.uk Cotswold Estates & Gardens: 01285 654766 / GL7 7BG / estatesandgardens.co.uk Sarah Cotter Craig: 01608 674434 / GL56 0ST / cotswoldgardendesigns.co.uk Daniel Mogridge: 01242 518508 / GL53 8AN / danielmogridge.com National Trust: nationaltrust.org.uk

D M

aniel ogridge Garden & Landscape Design

“Positively embracing the relationship between our landscape & lifestyles.”

m: 0778 6651221 t: 01242 518508

www.danielmogridge.co.uk pinterest.com/danielmogridge

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

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GARDEN DESIGN TIPS

by Fi Boyle

EXTENDING YOUR BORDERS’ SEASON OF INTEREST Garden designer Fi Boyle provides her professional advice on how to create a garden that is low maintenance yet has interest throughout the year…

The thing I get asked for most by my clients is a garden that has a long season of interest and a low level of maintenance. With careful planning, this is possible to achieve. However, there is no such thing as no maintenance and it is often the small amount of maintenance that brings longevity to a garden, particularly where perennials are concerned.

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When planning a garden, each plant regardless of its type has to earn its place. What does it bring to the garden and how/when does it die back? This is key if you want to have a garden that has interest throughout the year.

A well planned border should have something to catch your eye from really early on in the year

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gardens design tips… EXTENDING YOUR BORDERS’ SEASON OF INTEREST all the way through to late autumn. In the winter, it is your evergreen structure – be it hedges or topiary along with the strategically placed evergreen shrubs such as Sarcococca confusa or Garrya elliptica – that takes over and provides the main interest.

One of the earliest to flower is the Hellebore and by cutting the old leaves back in January, the flowers are then framed by the new season’s growth and can be seen more clearly. Bulbs, too, are a great way of achieving early interest in any garden as well as adding a further dimension to your border throughout the year: there is a bulb for almost every month of the year.

I often underplant roses with Iris reticulata as they can easily be seen before the foliage has got going, or peonies with Iphelion or Scilla as the blue flowers are set off beautifully against the plumy brown leaf of the emerging peony.

Underplanting shrubs is vital. There are lots of plants that grow well in dappled shade and will form a carpet under the shrubs well before the shrubs themselves are out. I particularly love Lathyrus vernus, Corydalis, Epidemiums and Dicentra, to name but a few, all of which thrive in dappled shade. Alliums, too, are fantastic scattered through a border with Allium hollandicum flowering in June followed by Allium sphaerocephalon taking up the mantle into July and August. This is what is described as succession planting: as one flower fades another forms and takes over from it.

On the whole, most gardens tend to spring into life in April with spring blossom and early flowering shrubs which should be underplanted with a carpet of woodland style early flowering plants. Then by May, most of the perennials are emerging and really starting to fill out and by June all the usual suspects such as Roses and Peonies are in full bloom.

It is during this period that it is important to get out into the garden and deadhead your plants as this encourages a second flush, thus prolonging the season. Remember that some perennials have fabulous seedheads if left, whereas others look scruffy and need to be cut back as soon as they are over.

As the summer moves on, most people find that by the end of July their gardens are not

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looking as good as they would like – perhaps even a little bit jaded. Fortunately, there are lots of plants from which to choose to extend the life of your borders from mid-summer well into the autumn. These include Astrantia, Campanula, Phlox, Helleniums, Aster, Anemone, Sanguisorba, Perovskia and Gillenia, to name but a few. Choose plants with good seedheads such as Achillea, Eryngium, Echinops, Monarda and Rudbeckia that can be left standing. You could also consider adding in a few grasses which give great winter shape and form as well as bringing movement into the garden.

The best way to extend the flowering season is to have a good look at your borders and check when most of your plants flower. By doing this, you will see where your seasonal gaps are. It is well worth taking photographs to remind yourself and keeping a notebook so you know where you need to put in new plants in the autumn. There are lots of plants that have a relatively short season of interest and you should still use these but mix them in with other plants which have a longer season. Another way of extending the season of interest is by scattering through a few plants such as Aquilegia, Papaver, Gaura lindheimeri and Verbena bonariensis.

A border is not just about the flowers but also the foliage. This is equally important as a garden is about texture and form as well as colour and scent.

So make sure that you mix in enough evergreen plants such as Daphne, Euphorbia and plants with good foliage such as Hostas, Rogersia and Ferns.

Traditionally, gardens used to be cut down in the autumn but now it is better to tidy your garden in autumn – cutting down anything that is broken or looks scruffy – but letting the rest stand. This not only gives you more to look at late in the year but can also help protect some plants from the winter as well as being good for wildlife.

So, with a little regular maintenance and strategic planning, your garden can look fabulous right through the year.

Fi Boyle Garden Landscape Design & Consultancy, Stourton: 01747 840202 / 07787 913027 / BA12 6QD / fiboylegardendesign.com

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Burford School

An outstanding day and boarding school for students aged 11-18

Outstanding boarding and day school for boys and girls, 4 to 13 years

Dragon School, Oxford

“Exceptional”

Unlocking potential Inspiring futures

Open Evening

“The quality of children’s achievement and learning is exceptional”

Thursday 22 September 2016

Independent Schools Inspectorate Inspection Report, November 2014

4.30pm - 7.30pm One of the top 90 schools in England Minister of State for Schools 2015

www.burford.oxon.sch.uk

01993 823303

You are warmly invited to attend Dragon Prep School OPEN MORNINGS Day and Boarding children Saturday 24 September 2016 Saturday 8 October 2016 Saturday 13 May 2017

admin.4040@burford.oxon.sch.uk

OCTAVIA’S BOOKSHOP

tu

si Vi

y!

da

o st

TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST Please contact the Admissions Team T: +44(0)1865 315405 E: admissions@dragonschool.org Dragon School, Oxford

Nostalgic classics, brilliant new bestsellers and a wonderful range of children’s books.

Great recommendations for all ages and a variety of events including some great author signings!

24 Black Jack Street, Cirencester, Glos, GL7 2AA 01285 650677 | www.octaviasbookshop.co.uk

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Dragon School Oxford www.dragonschool.org

JULY– AUGUST 16 Cotswold preview

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family matters

Editor’s choice: children’s selection School reports School profile: dragon school, oxford Family matters feature: talking the talk Books recommended by… madhatter bookshop Family matters comment: richmond witney Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

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Editor’s Choice… CHILDREN’S SELECTION

At Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford, this August is Rhino month. The Park is celebrating its recent white rhino baby boom: Astrid was born in 2013 and then two more calves arrived last year – named Ian, after the South African conservationist Ian Player, and John, in memory of John Heyworth who founded the Park in 1970.

Another recent arrival is a Giant Anteater baby, the second for parents Zorro and Zeta.

Cotswold Wildlife Park: 01993 823006 / OX18 4JP / cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

Editor’s Choice

Our selection of family friendly events this summer…

Cirencester Children’s Book Week, now in its fourth year, is bringing a line-up of award winning authors and illustrators to the town from Monday 25 to Saturday 30 July. Various events, held at Cirencester Library and Octavia’s Bookshop, cater for each different age group.

Tickets are £2 each and are available from both venues. Advance booking is recommended as many events are expected to sell out. Octavia’s Bookshop: 01285 650677 / GL7 2AA / octaviasbookshop.co.uk

In addition to the usual programme of children’s events, talks and workshops at the American Museum in Britain, there are several upcoming activities linked to its current exhibition, An American Toy Story. On Thursday 21 July, from 1pm–4pm, Princesses in Cars, Princes up a Tower is a drop-in session of film character sketching and collage for children aged 3+. On Thursday 28 July, from 10am–12noon, Fight Like a Jedi workshop offers an introduction to the art of stage fighting for ages 8+ (£10 per child, advance booking required). Young Star Wars fans (age 3+) can also get creative at the In A Galaxy Far, Far Away… drop-in workshop on Thursday 4 August, from 1pm–4pm. American Museum in Britain: 01225 460503 / BA2 7BD / americanmuseum.org

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I am composed

"I joined Dean Close with very little experience of public speaking. I can even remember being quite nervous for my first School drama performance.

However, I started to take part in Speech and Drama lessons and I quickly learnt to speak in front of an audience. It has really helped me to develop my confidence.

I now feel very able to speak publicly and really enjoy doing so. It is certainly a skill I will use often in the future."

Head Boy, Harry Caro

01242 258044 / www.deanclose.org.uk

C o - e d u c at i o n a l

|

Day a n d B oa r d i n g

|

Ag e 1 3 - 1 8

Awarded “Outstanding” ISI - 2015

Open Morning Early Years & Key Stage 1 Saturday 1 October, 10am - 12 noon

Independent co-educational day school for children aged 2-11 Years

For further information, or to book a tour with the Headmaster, please call 01789 293795 or email office@croftschool.co.uk

www.croftschool.co.uk Alveston Hill, Loxley Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7RL

Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

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school reports

s c h o o l

r e p o rt s

We celebrate local schools’ recent successes as well as upcoming highlights…

The Croft Preparatory School, Stratford-upon-Avon 01789 293795 / CV37 7RL / croftschool.co.uk Pupils and staff at The Croft celebrated Her Majesty the Queen’s 90th birthday with their very own street party style lunch. Pupils were delighted to see that their adventure playground had been turned into an outside dining hall, with tables decorated in red, white and blue, and strings of bunting that had been individually decorated by every pupil in the school. A rendition of The National Anthem was given by Mr Shortman and Years 3-5 members of the Wind Band and then a thank you letter to Year 4 from Buckingham Palace was read out.

The Kingsley School, Royal Leamington Spa 01926 425127 / CV32 5RD / thekingsleyschool.com In May, The Kingsley Preparatory School played host to over 300 children from nine local schools in the CWSSP Infant Agility athletics event for Years 1 and 2. Children participated in a 40m sprint, javelin throw, chest push, speed bounce and standing long jump, all of which they seemed to enjoy, with superb weather adding to the mood.

For the second year running, the Kingsley/St Peter’s joint team won the event, so now go through to the County Final which is held in July.

Mrs Kate Close, Teacher of PE at The Kingsley Preparatory School, said, “I am absolutely delighted for the Kingsley and St Peter’s team, and it has been a real pleasure to welcome so many local schools to our brilliant playing fields and pavilion.”

Sibford School, Banbury 01295 781200 / OX15 5QL / sibfordschool.co.uk Our congratulations go to Rosie Weston, a pupil at Sibford School, who recently won Gold in the 2016 European Triathlon Championships in Lisbon, Portugal. The 17 year old was awarded the Gold medal in the sprint event for Under-20s after finishing more than one minute ahead of her closest rival. She completed the 750m open water swim, 20km bike ride and 5km run in just one hour, 12 minutes and 35 seconds. After triumphing, Rosie said, “I was fairly confident about the English field but the strength of the European competition was an unknown to me so I was delighted to be able to take Gold. It was very special.” Her success is all the more remarkable as she only took up triathlon three years ago.

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school profile… family DRAGON matters SCHOOL, feature…

OXFORD XXX

SCHOOL PROFILE

John Baugh

DRAGON SCHOOL, OXFORD Founded in 1877 to educate the children of Oxford University dons, the Dragon is now a co-educational boarding and day school for boys and girls aged four to 13.

The school’s focus is on helping pupils develop their social and emotional skills, providing a happy, healthy environment in which they can thrive. Its ethos – and indeed the school motto of Arduus ad Solem – encourages them to ‘reach for the sun’ in all they do…

What is your professional background and how did you come to be Headmaster of the Dragon School?

I have been Headmaster of the Dragon since 2002, before which I spent five years as Head of Edge Grove Prep School in Hertfordshire (1997– 2002). Previously, I was Head of Solefield School in Sevenoaks, Kent (1986–1997). I graduated from St Luke’s, Exeter, with a BEd, after a wonderful childhood in Africa. I also dabbled with professional football for a few years.

What was your first impression of the school?

I was overwhelmed by the immense buzz, energy and can-do attitude of both the staff and children.

In my first few months, I didn’t once come across any negative attitudes – the children were, and still are, hugely busy, engaging and open minded.

It is definitely a fun and energetic environment which develops happy, independent, articulate and confident young boys and girls who enjoy learning.

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What in particular do you bring to the school?

For the past few years, my team and I have focused on the importance of helping pupils and staff develop their social and emotional skills.

Academic development can be laid to waste if you don’t have the right social and emotional climate in which to nurture young minds – if you plant a seed into a sterile, unhealthy place it won’t take root, or will slowly wither away.

I believed in creating a positive learning experience for children that enables them to grow and develop in a mutually supportive environment.

The Governors clearly agreed, and we have worked together to put social and emotional learning at the heart of the school. We continue to reflect on our teaching and learning practice and to make continuous improvements.

In my first assembly, I told the pupils I had three school rules – 1. Be Kind, 2. Be Kind, and 3. (if you cannot remember the first two) Be Kind.4

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Kindness is an easy word for children to understand and should be seen as a positive attribute. One has to be brave and strong to be truly kind. The way you model your behaviour as a leader is terribly important and I try my best to be a positive role model.

What is the history of the school?

A group of Oxford University dons founded the Oxford Preparatory School in 1877 for their own children. In 1886, parents’ faith and financial support enabled Skipper Lynam to develop his extraordinary vision to develop the school at a more permanent facility in Bardwell Road. He believed children should enjoy learning and understand the world around them: radical thoughts for the time.

Today, the Dragon Preparator y School (for 8–13 year olds), together with the Dragon Pre-Preparator y School (for 4–7 year olds), is situated on two sites in North Oxford with Boarding Houses for boarders, boys and girls, sports pitches with views down to the River Cherwell and excellent facilities.

The Dragon continues to put children’s social and emotional health at the heart of learning and to develop Skipper Lynam’s progressive vision.

The school is also the lead sponsor of a local academy, which embraces three primary schools in the area.

Do you plan to introduce any further changes, and if so, what are they?

Everything we do at the Dragon is geared around instilling a love of learning in as broad a sense as possible. We encourage children to take risks in a controlled environment: the best way to learn is to get things wrong sometimes. Our philosophy is “have a go, don’t worry about making mistakes”; if you can’t make mistakes, you won’t move forwards. If children only do the things they can already do, how can they learn?

Children of today will continuously have to keep learning and adapting to change. Many of the jobs they will be doing haven’t even been invented yet, so they will need to take risks to be employable in the future. I believe we need to develop flexible, creative children who are prepared to ‘have a go’.

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An ensemble at Dragon School

What are the goals and ethos of the Dragon School?

Today, many of us believe that education factors out risk. How can that be right, when education should be about curiosity, testing boundaries and stepping out of your comfort zone?

At the Dragon we feel, and have always felt, that we have a duty to innovate: to try things differently. One of the ways we do this is perhaps counter-intuitive – we give more freedom. Why? Because freedom builds trust. We do not believe that command and control allow children to develop the sense of responsibility and respect for others that is so vital to a full life.

You will find that at the soul of the Dragon there is a surprising informality and this has created a school where the driving motivator, above all else, is the positive, respectful relationships between all the parties – young and older.

And then what happens? Again, it is counterintuitive: the children try harder.

Guided by a staff body that has inhaled the Dragon philosophy (whilst we are not, in fact, highly academically selective as regards the children we admit, we are extremely selective about our staff), the children push themselves harder, but for themselves and for their desire to learn. And all the time, our staff are encouraged

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school profile… DRAGON SCHOOL, OXFORD to understand that here, in this habitat we call The Dragon, there must be room for children to make mistakes and space for them to put them right.

We have espoused this approach to the education of the young since the very beginning in 1877. It has proved successful. It sets us apart and provides the answer to how, simultaneously, we are big – but feel small.

It also explains why so many of our children go on to lead remarkable lives, often in the public eye. And it explains why so many of our children go on to the top schools in the country. But most of all, it is evidenced by cohort after cohort of Dragons, across the country and across the world, who approach life by asking not “Why?” but “Why not?”.

Does the Dragon suit a particular type of character?

We regard ourselves as one of the finest prep schools in the world where we respect children as individuals. The joy is in watching them flourish.

The Dragon School’s outstanding all-round education encourages enquir y, confidence, individuality and a love of learning. A can-do attitude is vital – the children have learnt that if I ask them if they play a musical instrument, the best answer is not “no” but rather “not yet”.

The quality of the relationships between adults and children, based on mutual respect rather than authority, can’t be stressed enough.

It’s all about a negotiated, balanced position – consequently, the children will go five times further for you because they want to. We pride ourselves on building healthy and respectful relationships and children leave the school with a strong sense of their own identity and a healthy respect for other people.

What are your plans for the future direction of the Dragon?

Social and emotional health remains at the forefront of our thinking; we have embedded it in our language and our behaviour. It has become part of the Dragon culture.

The Dragon works closely with Family Links, a national charity dedicated to empowering children, parents, families and schools to be

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emotionally healthy. Staff, from the Senior Management Team, to estates, catering and administrative staff, receive Family Links training.

Using appropriate language, based on the four building blocks of the Family Links Nurturing Programme (self-awareness, appropriate expectations, positive discipline and empathy), the entire school community works together to create an environment which can best support the development of our pupils.

True to the radical principles of founder Skipper Lynam, the Dragon today provides “full scope for all of imagination and originality in a child”, preparing children for life in the 21st century and beyond. Our role is to prepare children for the social, emotional and technological challenges ahead by providing a breadth of intellectual, philosophical and physical challenge.

Our expansive academic curriculum helps them make their own connections between subjects and disciplines and to think for themselves. Our programme of sport and physical development builds strength and stamina; our inspired music team, led by world class musicians, enriches the gifted and improves focus, concentration, listening and language skills for all our children; and our programme of extracurricular activities helps children to find out what makes their heart sing.

Dragon children balance critical thinking and creativity; academic success and emotional wellbeing; and a strong sense of self with a strong sense of service.

We are committed to reviewing best practice in our teaching and learning to serve our children to be the very best people they can be. The Dragon will never be complacent and neither will our Dragons.

I will give the last word to one of our former pupils, Seamus Lavan, who moved on to Eton and is now studying English at Oxford: “…the triumph of the Dragon approach is its treatment of each pupil as a distinct individual with unique skills, abilities and aspirations. The result of this approach is an all-encompassing education, one that yields success both in and out of the classroom.”

Dragon School, Oxford: 01865 315400 / OX2 6SS / dragonschool.org

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Talking

thetAlK

Just the thought of public speaking may fill many grown-ups with dread, but effective communication is a life skill that improves with practice and can be mastered from an early age. Here, we highlight a selection of the Cotswolds’ leading schools at which there are opportunities for pupils to develop and refine their verbal prowess…

Public speaking at Malvern College

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family matters feature… TALKING THE TALK Great orators have always been admired – and the huge popularity of TED talks is testament to the fact that this is still true.

But being able to express one’s ideas convincingly to a group of people is more than just an ego trip: throughout life, there are times when ideas, feelings or beliefs require open discussion. Whilst the lucky few are born with a seemingly instinctive ability to convey their viewpoint both succinctly and powerfully, it is a skill that most of us have to work on. So what makes a good orator and is it something that can be taught?

Being able to communicate effectively is one of the most important skills a pupil can learn. In an increasingly virtual world, where the most common form of communication now involves ’likes’ or 142 character ’tweets’, communicating verbally with clarity and confidence is a skill that could easily be lost. Debating is a particularly good way for pupils to learn how to present their ideas face-to-face.

Starting young is certainly helpful in building confidence and developing effective communication skills. At Burford School, there are many public speaking opportunities offered both internally and externally: class presentations and reading out loud are regular features of lesson planning, and pupils are encouraaged to participate in external public speaking and debating competitions such as Youth Speaks, MUNGA and Debating Matters. As the school’s current Head Girl, Elspeth Martin, says, “Public speaking isn’t just important if you want to go into politics or public life, everyone has to know how to communicate and the benefits of public speaking are huge.”

There is also a big focus on confidence building at Beaudesert Park School, in Minchinhampton.

Headmaster James Womersley explains the link between public speaking and building confidence in children: “When children speak in front of others, it helps build their confidence. Here at Beaudesert, we see proof of this every day, which is why we ensure that there are many, many opportunities for pupils to have a go from Nursery age up to when they leave, aged 13.”

Another school at which pupils are encouraged to present to their peers and participate

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Pupils at Burford School learn how to put their arguments persuasively

in public speaking events is The Cotswold School in Bourton-on-the-Water. Here, presentations back to peer groups often form the natural conclusion to a session of group work – for example, English students presenting to each other on an aspect of Elizabethan theatre; or Business Studies students presenting their marketing plans as part of a controlled assessment.

Pupils at The Cotswold School are also encouraged to strengthen their public speaking skills as part of day-to-day activities. If there is a specific STEM day, teams may give a presentation on a robot they have constructed or a wind turbine they have devised; and on PSHE days, students are put into groups to discuss ethical questions.

Additionally, the school has a Public Speaking Club as well as a Debating Society.

At Dean Close School, in Cheltenham, the use of debating and public speaking across all lessons is a vital tool in learning. Cathy Feltham, who jointly runs debating at the school, says, “This experience helps pupils understand the power of public speaking and presentation and the fact that it is harder than it looks – pupils always appreciate this when listening to guest speakers. It also helps boost their confidence. Sometimes, it is the quiet characters who can be the best public speakers, whilst the outwardly confident and boisterous ones can struggle when in front of their peers, on their own. It is a great way of educating the students on a topic and ensuring that they are aware of the whole picture and all sides of the argument so that they can make their own judgments and not just rely on others to tell them what to think.”

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Every year group from the Junior School to the Upper Sixth at Warwick School is encouraged to become involved in debating. At the very top level, Warwick School boys were selected to represent England and went to Armenia to debate in the style of the European Union about pressing issues of the day. Boys from all year groups have also been selected to debate for Oxford, Cambridge, ESU, Warwick, Nottingham and Bristol competitions.

These sorts of competitions have provided them with opportunities to speak in the Oxford Union debating chamber as well as debating alongside modern heroes such as Malala.

Oliver Layzell, a pupil in the Lower Sixth at Warwick School, explains why he enjoys debating:

inter-house public speaking competitions are held in each division (Lower College, Upper College and Sixth Form), and the school also has a junior Public Speaking Club and a Senior Debating Society, which enters the national and local competitions, such as ESU Schools’ Mace, the Cambridge Schools Competition and the Davis and Partners Competition. Girls who may feel less than totally confident to start with are encouraged to plan for debates and speeches with guidance and support from the school’s more experienced debaters. They are then able to start with shorter debates and gradually build up their confidence.

Jonathan Marchant, Head of Sixth Form at the school, sums up a good orator as follows:

’’

…I fully believe that it is a skill that every student should try to nurture. It will be useful in all walks of life, especially in future interviews. It is so important to have the self-confidence to be able to address large numbers of people, and also to be able to respond appropriately to their reactions…

’’

Sabrina Torris, a pupil at The Cotswold School “I enjoy it because debating is a game of wits. You not only have to think about your own case but what the other team is going to say, and how you can counter them. You also get to look into some very interesting and often rather controversial topics.

“I’d say that there is something very satisfying about making a speech in public that you have worked on for some time, especially if it turns out to be effective. Talk of ’developing life skills’ may sound hollow, but I’ve found that it really is the case with debating. You learn an argumentative style that is encouraged in essays, especially as you get to A levels. After speaking in public often enough, you become more confident in doing so and you get the experience to justify that confidence. However, I think the most important thing I’ve taken out of debating is the ability to consider properly both sides of any argument, whatever my own views.”

At The Cheltenham Ladies’ College, the whole school takes part in a debate called The Beale Debate, which is a competition between staff, girls and Guild members (alumnae). Three

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“They have confidence, poise and a measured delivery, as well as presenting a structured argument that is substantiated with precise evidence. They need to be able to listen carefully to the opposition’s argument in order to find flaws in it.”

Understanding how to communicate ideas confidently and clearly, and learning how to field questions without preparation, are important skills, particularly during university and professional interview. These are qualities that the school encourages the girls to develop during their time at College.

Malvern College is one of the only schools to offer debating as part of the curriculum in the Foundation Year (year 9). A Debating Society flourishes and pupils participate in competitions and fixtures all around the country, as well as inter-house Debating Competitions. The school also encourages younger students by running an annual Debating Day for prep schools: debating is considered a very important skill to develop for life beyond Malvern and for future careers.

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family matters feature… TALKING THE TALK

Pupils from Warwick School at the European Youth Parliament in Armenia

Dean Close School also has a strong tradition of debating. This year, its Sixth Form Team won the regional championships and will represent the Midlands at the National EYP Finals. On a termly basis, the school runs current affairs debates, known as Library Debates, and during last year’s election campaign, it invited all local parliamentary candidates to talk about their views and to be questioned by pupils. The school’s English department also holds regular poetry recitals and Literary Lunches at which literature lovers can discuss their favourite texts with other likeminded teachers and pupils over lunch.

Through public speaking, students at Malvern St James Girls’ School are given the opportunity to develop their own ideas and take part in a lively weekly debate. Mrs Trish Woodhouse, the school’s Headmistress, says, “Speaking in front of an audience is at the top of many people’s phobia list.

Given how important communication is, particularly for those aiming for a top-flight career, giving our girls the opportunity to learn and practice speaking in public is important. Malvern St James participates in the English Speaking Union and Model United Nations, as well as Latin and Greek Reading Competitions and Poetry reading in competitive Arts Festivals.

“Informally, girls are encouraged to present to their peer group in class, and to the full school community in Assembly. Girls from Prep upwards are involved in speaking at special school events.

There is a School Debating Society and platforms such as School Council, being a Prefect or Head Girl, and being a House Prefect all give girls the

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opportunity to grasp the technique of speaking persuasively in public – definitely a skill for life.”

Run by English teacher Mrs Chris Shepherd, Malvern St James’ weekly Debating and Public Speaking Society not only promises participants the opportunity to be outspoken and controversial, but also the prospect of chocolate biscuits and cake. It is open to student from Years 9, 10, 11 and Sixth Form, with a maximum group size of 10. Mrs Shepherd recommends public speaking for anyone who doesn’t usually speak in class. As she says, “Thinking is helped by your speaking.”

Malvern St James student Sylfiana Wong agrees, saying, “I enjoy doing public speaking because we are allowed to put forward our point of view and our opinion on topics that I had never previously considered. Some topics are very controversial but we can tell the audience what we think and even persuade them. It helps you to think in a logical way and think really quickly. I have learnt a lot of new vocabulary and looked into topics that I didn’t really understand before.

“In public speaking competitions, you can be the chair, the questioner or the speaker. Each person plays an important role so it makes for better teamwork and communication skills. It takes a great deal of courage to stand in front of lots of people you don’t know and it has definitely helped me a lot with presentations and oral exams.”

Reciting poetry also increases confidence and hones articulation and presentation skills. At Warwick School, all boys have to learn a poem as part of the elocution competitions that take place in the first two years of the school.

At Beaudesert Park every spring, the school stages a Declamations competition. Every child from Year 3 (aged seven to eight) upwards is able to pick a piece of prose or a poem, which they learn by heart and then recite in front of an audience.

Judging takes place within classes and year groups before the finalists recite their chosen piece in front of parents, peers, staff and an external judge.

There are more formal qualifications, too.

Charlotte Crosbee, who teaches Speech, Drama, LAMDA (the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art) and Dance at Beaudesert Park School, explains, “As well as examinations accredited 4

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by LAMDA – including solo and duologue acting – speaking in public and the speaking of verse and prose, we also offer English Speaking Board (ESB) qualifications. For this exam, pupils must prepare and give a speech, perform a poem from memory and read aloud to an audience. The assessment is done as a group, so that the children actively partake in each other’s exams as speakers and listeners. This gives a fantastic grounding for public speaking, building stage presence as well as promoting listening and conversational skills.”

At Malvern College, The Lea Smith Reading Competition dates back to 1907 and is one of the oldest inter-House competitions at the school.

Each year, pupils from all year groups and Houses compete by reading aloud a literary passage of their choice. On National Poetry Day, pupils can choose a poem to read aloud (often with a megaphone!) and external poetry competitions form a platform for many students to showcase their recital skills.

Many pupils at The Cotswold School take part in public speaking competitions, which start at Club level in school and then progress externally.

Sabrina Torris, aged 14, recently won FameLab Academy at the Gloucestershire Finals, a public speaking competition for Science communicators.

Run by Cheltenham Science Festival, it is now the largest competition of its kind. She believes strongly in the power of public speaking, saying, “I fully believe that it is a skill that every student should try to nurture. It will be useful in all walks of life, especially in future interviews. It is so important to have the self-confidence to be able to address large numbers of people and also to be

Debating awards are hotly contested at Malvern St James

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able to respond appropriately to their reactions.

“I also think it makes people more sociable and they find it easier to talk to new people. The art of conversation seems to be disappearing more and more nowadays and it’s being replaced by countless abbreviations and grammatically incorrect sentences. Texting/social media can never prepare you for real interaction with people, whilst public speaking most certainly can.”

Congratulations additionally go to Malvern St James pupil Flora Barber, in Year 12, who recently won her age category in the BBC Hereford and Worcester Poetry Writing Competition, which led to her reading on-air her poem Home.

As pupils at Warwick School approach the GCSE years, all the boys have to learn a speech to deliver to their class on a moral or ethical issue.

This ties in with the PSHE curriculum and allows all the pupils to develop their confidence whilst learning about issues on which they feel passionate.

Recent winners have included those who spoke about recycling, child slavery and abortion in Northern Ireland. By doing these sort of activities regularly enough, the boys soon learn to manage any lingering nerves.

At The Cotswold School, the EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) is encouraged at Sixth Form and is highly regarded by universities as it has a presentation element, giving the scholar the opportunity to present on their specialist subject and take part in a Q&A. The school is now also running Mini-EPQs for Year 8s – again, an exercise that requires some in-depth research followed by an element of public speaking in order to present to Governors and visitors.

Georgina Hildick-Smith, who is in charge of Public Speaking at Dean Close School, sums up the importance of public speaking when she says, “Although it has always been an important skill, it is probable that with the increase in virtual interaction and communication that the opportunity for pupils to do this, especially outside the classroom, is much less now. The demise of the dinner table conversation with family and friends has a knock-on

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family matters feature… TALKING THE TALK effect, both in terms of the ability to converse but also the lack of awareness of issues and the wider world which all make for good public speaking/ debating skills.

“It is a skill to construct and maintain an argument in a time when most arguments, online and in the media, are bite sized: this is something more extensive. Research is required, which is another valuable skill. Speakers must be able to answer questions, showing how well they can think on their feet and engage with the questioner.”

All the schools included in this feature agree that students should be encouraged to practice public speaking from an early age, even if it is just in front of their peers in the classroom, because the confidence gained spills over into so many other aspects of learning and life.

So, what tips can be gleaned for successful public speaking? 14 year old Sabrina Torris, a pupil at The Cotswold School, has the following advice: “A good orator definitely is full of enthusiasm and charisma. They have to change their tone frequently to keep their audience engaged and have to have good intonation. Their subject matter has to be compelling – the audience has to be able relate to and have an interest in what they are trying to say.

The orator has to be able to create a connection with their audience: they have to be able to evoke feeling, stimulate thoughts...their audience should be completely focused on what they are saying.

They need to carry their audience with them and take them on a journey. They should also hold a confident stance and shouldn’t be afraid to make proper eye contact with the audience. They have to be quite ’fresh’ and original, making them stand out from the ordinary and be memorable.

A good opening line (hook) and ending line (sinker) is essential as well. Both have to be punchy – you want to make the audience sit up in surprise and listen to what you’re going to say.”

Contact details: Beaudesert Park School: 01453 832072 / GL6 9AF / beaudesert.gloucs.sch.uk Burford School: 01993 823303 / OX18 4PL / burford.oxon.sch.uk The Cotswold School: 01451 820554 / GL54 2BD / cotswold.gloucs.sch.uk The Cheltenham Ladies’ College: 01242 520691 / GL50 3EP / cheltladiescollege.org

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A public speaking class at Beaudesert Park School

The current student leadership team at Burford School – George Genc, Elspeth Martin, Maggie Boyd and Orlando Ross – provide the following ‘top tips’ for any student starting out in public speaking: 1. It gets better the more of it you do, so don’t be put off if it doesn’t go well the first time.

2. If you’re making a speech, speak more slowly than you ever thought possible – you’ll still be speaking much faster than you think!

3. Remember to look up and make eye contact with the audience.

4. Have a glass of water to hand.

5. If you can, it helps to talk about something that really interests you.

6. Your intonation and facial expressions can help engage an audience, but avoid gurning!

7. You’ll probably find that speaking to small audiences can be scarier than speaking to large ones, because it’s much more personal.

Dean Close School: 01242 258000 / GL51 6HE / deanclose.org.uk Malvern College: 01684 581500 / WR14 3DF / malverncollege.org.uk Malvern St James: 01684 892288 / WR14 3BA / malvernstjames.co.uk Warwick School: 01926 776400 / CV34 6PP / warwickschool.org

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Books recommended by…

Madhatter Bookshop

The Madhatter Bookshop is a family run independent bookshop in Burford which sells both books and hats. Although Sara Hall, the owner, stocks all the latest titles that you’d expect to find, she also keeps a lookout for those quirky new books which are a great read and an ideal gift.

She is always happy to provide advice on hats for every occasion and books for readers of all ages. Here, she recommends her favourite books for the summer.…

The Long Weekend: Life in the English Country House between the Wars

by Adrian Tinniswood Hardback, £20 Following the halcyon days of the Edwardian period, the interwar years were a time of economic and political uncertainty. Faced with punitive death duties and financial ruin, many stately homes were demolished or sold. But architectural historian Andrew Tinniswood’s account of these years is by no means doom-laden: many houses were saved, lovingly restored or completely rebuilt by resourceful landowners and successful entrepreneurs and industrialists.

Indeed, The Long Weekend is filled with entrancing and fascinating accounts of life in England’s most elegant country houses. Did you know that your luggage should always travel separately from you? Or that one employer insisted that a newly appointed second footman should change his name because all second footmen are called James (and all first footmen are called William)? Whoever said that fact is stranger than fiction was right – and this book is an absolute delight, too.

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books recommended by… MADHATTER BOOKSHOP Five Rivers met on a Wooded Plain

by Barney Norris Hardback, £12.99 Playwright turned author Barney Norris’s debut novel tells the story of five people, all of whom are caught up at the moment of a serious car accident in Salisbury. Beautifully written, the novel explores the everyday griefs, worries and hopes that affect us all.

A young boy, a flowerstall holder, an army captain’s wife and an elderly man all face critical moments in their lives one ordinary evening. “There exists in all of us a song waiting to be sung which is as heart-stopping and vertiginous as the peak of the cathedral.” This is one of the most moving books I have read for a long time.

The Essex Serpent

by Sarah Perry Hardback, £14.99 I am not exaggerating when I say that The Essex Serpent is my favourite book of 2016. Sarah Perry’s second novel is set in 1890s London and Essex, as local villagers fear the return of the mythical Essex Serpent. A young widow investigating these rumours meets the local clergyman and an unusual but intense relationship begins. But this is not Victorian England as many would imagine. Sarah Perry’s characters are all well rounded and sympathetically portrayed. Set in an extraordinary time of invention and discovery, Perry also adds credence to the view that feminism started in the 1870s and not the 1970s.

The Essex Serpent is perfect for those who are intrigued by the Victorian period and also enjoyed Tracey Chevalier’s Remarkable Creatures.

Show me a Mountain

by Kerry Young Hardback, £16.99 For some strange reason, any book that begins on a plane is guaranteed to grab my attention and Kerry Young’s account of life in post-war Jamaica is absorbing from start to finish. Fay Wong’s father is a Chinese immigrant while her African mother, who grew up on a plantation, now lives in splendid isolation in a colonial mansion. But Fay’s mother is resentful of her daughter and her rages are terrible. When Fay is forced to marry a young gangster, Yang Pao, she embarks on a life full of intrigue and danger in Jamaica’s criminal underworld. Show me a Mountain is the third novel in the trilogy but it can be read without the need to read the earlier novels. In fact, I haven’t read the other books in the trilogy but I do plan to read both Pao and Gloria very soon.

Madhatter Bookshop, Burford: 01993 822539 / OX18 4QJ / madhatterbooks.co.uk

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“We felt that Dad needed a little more support, that’s why we chose Richmond Retirement Villages” Liz, daughter of a Richmond Villages’ resident

Are you in the situation where you know your elderly parent isn’t coping at home?

Then a Village Suite at a Richmond Village, who have new retirement villages opening soon in Oxfordshire and Derbyshire, could be the solution.

Here residents purchase their own apartments and enjoy a level of support which includes all meals, cleaning, laundry and household chores with the reassurance of personal care available if required.

For more information, please call

Tel: 01993 768679 or visit www.richmond-villages.com/witney

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advertorial… FAMILY MATTERS COMMENT

Is a care home really the best option for Mum? So what do you do for the best when you know your elderly parent isn’t coping at home? You know they need looking after and a little extra support, but is a care home really necessary and is it the best and only option?

“It’s a problem facing many people,” says David Westerby, Village Manager at the soon to open Richmond Witney Retirement Village. “Every day, family members tell me how fiercely independent their parents are, but the reality is often very different with many ageing parents reliant on a great deal of support from a combination of family, friends, neighbours and public services to maintain them in their existing home. The stresses on families can be enormous.”

Of course families and friends are there to help as much as they can and generally do their utmost, but often they’re not local and have many other important responsibilities and demands on their time. “It’s a real conundrum,” says David, “and often people are still isolated at home with no real quality of life despite the sterling efforts of their family and friends to sustain them.”

So what is the alternative? In the past, the only obvious solution has been residential care, but this might seem like an unnecessarily draconian step to take when, with a little extra care and support, an elderly parent can continue to enjoy a more independent lifestyle.

The answer could be a Village Suite at award winning retirement village operator Richmond Villages, which is part of Bupa and has retirement villages in the Cotswolds and Oxfordshire.

People purchase their own apartment and enjoy a level of support which includes all meals, cleaning, laundry and household chores, with personal care on hand 24/7 if required.

“Most people have at least one meal a day with friends in the restaurant or take the option of having meals brought to their apartment,” continues David. “Dining with friends is a regular social occasion for most people, but the social aspect is enhanced further by our activities and events team who facilitate everything from bridge clubs to cultural festivals, all designed around the interests and wants of the people living at the Village. We also have our own fleet of vehicles and drivers meaning shopping and other routine journeys, as well as recreational outings, no longer require ordering a taxi or relying on family or friends if you don’t drive any more.”

Liz Smith, whose father has been living in a Village Suite at a Richmond Village for five years, said, “Dad’s previous home had just become too much work for him. He wasn’t coping well and it was all getting him down. Now he has his own beautiful apartment, a great social life and excellent facilities all on his doorstep. Not only has it been the perfect move for dad, but knowing that support and help from Richmond Villages is there 24 hours a day is very reassuring for me and my family.”

For more information, please contact Richmond Village, Witney: 01993 768679 / richmond-villages.com/witney

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LIFESTYLE • HOME • GIFTS

J e w e l l e r y an d S i l v e r w ar e Masterpieces by Modern Goldsmiths

STROUD – 30 Kendrick Street t:01453 764399 CIRENCESTER – 12 Black Jack Street t:01285 650308

Discover Woldstone at 25 Oxford Street, Woodstock OX20 1TH 01993 813000

E NCORE CIRENCESTER DESIGNER CLOTHES AGENCY

We sell pre-owned contemporary designer clothing and accessories for men and women.

Pop into our shop Black Jack Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 2AE open from 10am – 5pm Monday to Saturday 01285 885223 www.encore-cirencester.co.uk

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style&lifestyle

EDITOR’S CHOICE: FASHION & BEAUTY EXPERT COMMENT: HOLIDAY STYLE EDITOR’S CHOICE: FOOD & DRINK FOOD & DRINK FEATURE: A TEATIME EXPERIENCE FOOD REVIEW: CATERING FOR YOUNG DINERS INN PROFILE: THE INN AT FOSSEBRIDGE CHEF PROFILE: TALIA MADDISON THE PREVIEW INTERVIEW: COUNTESS BATHURST VENUE OF THE MONTH: MATARA SPECIALIST BUSINESS PROFILE: QETTY BANG BANG Cotswold preview JULY– AUGUST 16

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Editor’s Choice… FASHION & BEAUTY Congratulations go to Aquarias Spa at Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa, which has just been awarded the ila Therapist of the Year award for a third time: Violaine Besnard takes on the mantle from her colleagues Jodi Chivers and Sarah Hickman who won the award in 2013 and 2014 respectively. The luxury organic skincare brand ila is hand blended in the Cotswolds and treatments cost from £90 for a 60 minute treatment.

For further information or to book: 01666 822888 / whatleymanor.com

Editor’s Choice

The latest style and beauty news from across the Cotswolds…

We aren’t normally won over by ‘novelty’ make up but this rather genius Frog Prince lipstick (£22) by Lipstick Queen is an exception.

On application, the emerald green lipstick reacts to the natural pH of your lips to become a custom shade of rosebud pink to suit your particular complexion.

The semi-sheer texture is also enriched with Vitamin E and Shea Butter to keep lips soft and hydrated for any frog-kissing moments. Available from Space NK: spacenk.com

One Two Five Gallery in Bath is an interesting combination of art gallery and fashion boutique where you can find hand-painted silk clothing by co-owner Carole Waller and a selection of unique jewellery by local designers as well as a range of hand-crafted ceramics, pottery and glassware. The gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday, from 11am–5pm. One Two Five Gallery: 07803 033629 / BA1 1NW / carolewaller.co.uk

Ruth Jones, director of Rococo Home & Gifts in Cirencester and Stroud, has just started working with Kate Hamilton Hunter Studio on a new collection of jewellery for Autumn/Winter’16. Rococo has already stocked Kate’s jewellery for several years and the current range includes these lovely floral designs, blue and white ‘denim’ prints in a variety of heart, disc and oval shapes, and recycled aluminium pieces finished with sterling silver and Swarovski crystals. For further details: katehhstudio.co.uk / rococogifts.co.uk

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expert comment… HOLIDAY STYLE

EXPERT COMMENT

by Tabitha James Kraan

Holiday style Looking great on holiday is all part of the fun but there’s no denying that it doesn’t come as naturally as the movies make out. That said, no-one likes going overboard with their hair style – after all, holidays are for relaxation. Here, professional stylist Tabitha James Kraan provides her top tips for achieving simple yet glamorous holiday hair with minimal time and effort…

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expert comment… HOLIDAY STYLE

When you’re on a beach, the triple whammy of sun, sand and sea water can wreak havoc on hair as well as skin. A good holiday rule is to think of your hair as an extension of your skin: treat it with just as much care and attention.

Remember that hydrated hair is healthy hair, so ensure that you prevent your locks from becoming dry and brittle. At Tabitha James Kraan Organic Hairdressing, my salon in Stow-on-the-Wold, you can find a range of natural haircare products that help hair to thrive in the most testing of conditions. For example, I’d advise an oil treatment with our Scented Hair Oil the night before heading off on your travels, once mid-week and again on your return to keep your hair looking full of life and ready for anything.

Spending precious sunning hours preening hair is less than appealing and using tongs, straighteners and driers should be avoided whenever possible in hot weather. Fortunately, salt water provides the ideal hold and texture for beach style – just be sure to apply a rich conditioner as a leave-in treatment each day to help tame frizz and replenish all the moisture lost.

If you’re heading pool-side, always condition your hair beforehand to protect it from the harmful chemicals. Be sure, too, to cleanse any salt or

chlorine out of it as soon as possible after swimming in the sea or pool.

We all know that washing hair every day can be time consuming and downright dull, but you can refresh it with the TJK Compact Dry Shampoo – it’s ideal for keeping in your handbag so that it’s always to hand when you’re on the go.

Tabitha James Kraan Organic Hairdressing, Stow-on-the-Wold: 01451 831999 / GL54 1AA / tabithajameskraan.co.uk

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Editor’s Choice… FOOD & DRINK We have been hearing very good things about the food at the recently opened Gainsborough Hotel in Bath. The hotel has partnered with the Michelin starred German chef Johann Lafer, who lends his name to the restaurant and oversees an innovative menu. The dishes follow his ‘dining without borders’ approach of exploring diverse influences, ingredients and cooking techniques.

Well worth a visit. The Gainsborough Bath Spa: 01225 358888 / BA1 1QY / thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

Editor’s Choice

Our top food and drink selection for the summer…

If you have sampled any of The Cotswolds Distillery’s award winning spirits, such as its Cotswolds Dry Gin, you may be interested to learn that there are daily guided tours of the distillery, based near Shipston-onStour, at which you can learn more about every aspect of the craft. The distillery is also planning VIP tours, during which a master distiller will help visitors concoct their very own gin recipe. The Cotswolds Distillery: 01608 238533 / CV36 5HT / cotswoldsdistillery.com

Allomorphic in Stroud is garden designer Paul Hervey-Brookes’ retail showroom, where – in addition to all the gardening essentials – you can find lots of delicious loose leaf teas, tea pots, cups, strainers and gadgetry. The teas include blends by the herbal specialist Jekka McVikka for Cantons Tea Company, such as her Organic British Forager’s Blend and Organic Tulsi. There is also an in-store ‘Tea Experience’ on most Fridays and Saturdays at which you can sample a selection of Allomorphic’s specialist teas, served with cakes and biscuits: GL5 1BB / allomorphic.co.uk

The raw food and juice café The Core Cheltenham is a great place to go for some healthy eating inspiration. If you are looking to really kick-start your body, you can also sign up to one of its Juice Programmes which vary in length from just one day to a month or more. The Core Cheltenham: 01242 224898 / GL52 6HU / thecorecheltenham.com

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food & drink feature… A TEATIME EXPERIENCE

ATeatime

Experience Here, we present our selection of four of the Cotswolds’ most characterful settings in which to enjoy afternoon tea…

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food & drink feature… A TEATIME EXPERIENCE

Aston Pottery’s Country Café

Aston Pottery’s Country Café, near Bampton 01993 852896 / OX18 2BT / astonpottery.co.uk Aston Pottery offers visitors an award winning shop, café and gardens as well as boasting one of the few remaining working potteries in the country. It is without doubt one of the area’s unique destinations, where the experience is as impressive as the service.

Built in 2008, the pottery’s Country Café is open seven days a week, serving a fine selection of freshly cooked food. Tea time offerings include scones, cakes and biscuits, with gluten and dairyfree offerings that are just as delicious.

The café provides a light and airy space in which to enjoy a light snack, lunch or – throughout the summer months – delicious Cream Teas (advance bookings are requested).

All of the pottery is designed, hand-made and hand-decorated on site using Aston Pottery’s own stencilling techniques. If you visit during the week, you can take a short tour around the workshop to see how everything is made.

Pump Room Restaurant, Bath 01225 444477 / BA1 1LZ / romanbaths.co.uk Regarded as the social heart of Bath for more than two centuries, the Pump Room is a striking neo-classical salon with a fountain where you can still sample the hot spa water. But be warned, it is very much an acquired taste!

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With its historical connections and period features, the Pump Room Restaurant offers one of the city’s finest backdrops for afternoon tea. Live music is provided courtesy of either the Pump Room Trio or resident pianist Jools Scott.

The three options for afternoon tea are the Traditional Pump Room Tea (£22.50 per person), Searcys Champagne Tea (£31.50 per person) and the Pump Room Celebration Tea and Bubbles (£40 per person). All offer very generous portions so remember to arrive hungry and/or factor in time for a hike around nearby Victoria Park afterwards.

Bookings can be made for Monday to Friday, but there is a queuing system in place at the weekend. It is worth the wait, although we’d advise a weekday visit if you are not a natural queuer.

Bear in mind that the Pump Room is one of Bath’s most popular destinations with tourists, especially over the summer months.

The Daffodil, Cheltenham 01242 700555 / GL50 2AE / thedaffodil.com Situated inside one of Cheltenham’s most iconic buildings – a 1920s former Art Deco picture palace in the Suffolks – The Daffodil retains much of this original feeling of opulence. There is still a sense of occasion, which is perfectly suited to the most elegant meal of the day.

There are several choices of afternoon tea on the menu, including the Cream Tea (two homemade scones, clotted cream and homemade preserves; £5.50); the English Tea (two hot buttered English muffins with homemade preserve; £5.50); and The Daffodil Afternoon Tea – a firm favourite – which includes the full whammy of freshly prepared sandwiches and cakes, homemade scones, clotted cream and homemade preserves (£15 per person).

Head Chef Tom Rains prides himself on expert preparation of the scones, cakes and delicate4

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You, me and Afternoon Tea

KEMPS LANE • PAINSWICK • GLOUCESTERSHIRE • GL6 6YB • 01452 813 688 THEPAINSWICK.CO.UK • ENQUIRIES@THEPAINSWICK.CO.UK

Situated inside one of Cheltenham’s most iconic buildings, a 1920’s former art deco picture palace; The Daffodil boasts one of The Cotswolds’ most decadent Afternoon Tea experiences.

Enjoy Afternoon Tea on Friday & Saturday afternoons 2.30pm – 5pm On a Saturday you can enjoy Afternoon Tea accompanied by our live jazz band. Prices start from from £5.50 per person for an English or Cream Tea. The Daffodil Afternoon Tea is £15 and for those who love a bit of sparkle, or are celebrating a special occasion, you can treat yourself to a ‘Champagne Tea’ TO BOOK Call (01242) 700555, email reception@thedaffodil.com or visit www.thedaffodil.com

The Daffodil, 18-20 Suffolk Parade, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 2AE

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food & drink feature… A TEATIME EXPERIENCE

Afternoon tea at The Daffodil

finger sandwiches.

All options are accompanied by your choice of tea, which includes Green, Earl Grey, Darjeeling, Chamomile Flowers and English Breakfast. If you prefer something sparkling with your afternoon tea, the Champagne Tea is served with a glass of Brut Champagne (£22 per person).

Afternoon teas are served on Friday and Saturday, from 2:30pm–5pm.

On Saturdays, live Jazz adds to the Roaring Twenties setting.

The Painswick Hotel & Restaurant, Painswick 01452 813688 / GL6 6YB / thepainswick.co.uk As a 16 bedroom restaurant-withrooms, food is central to what The Painswick is all about. It was recently relaunched as the latest addition to The Calcot Collection and aims to offer a relaxed take on the traditional country house hotel: it is far more relaxed and affordable, overlaid with a contemporary take on luxury.

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In The Restaurant, formality has been swept aside – think parquet flooring, leather, glass and wood textures, with banquette seating along one side of the room and chunky, stripped pine tables.

Afternoon tea is served daily from 3pm–5pm and, as you might expect, offers up some surprises. Head Chef Michael Bedford (formerly of The Chef’s Table in Tetbury) presents a traditional English cream tea of scones, clotted cream and jam (£16 per person) but also a Savoury version – afternoon tea ’with a twist’. This includes a ham and cheese toasty, Scotch egg, beer battered smoked haddock, mini-pork pies with pickled vegetables, and pork scratchings, all washed down with half a pint of stout or hot drink of your choice (£16 per person).

Michael describes his intent for all the dining options at The Painswick as “eclectic”. He adds, “Don’t expect anything austere but look out for the fun and surprises!”

Advance reservations are recommended.

The Painswick

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LocallY raised, GlOBALLY PRAISED.

‘The Best London Dry Gin In The World’ The Cotswolds Distillery may be achieving recognition on a world-wide scale, but we are so proud to be a 100% Cotswolds brand. The beautiful countryside, our amazing distillery team and the inspiration that surrounds us is what makes our craft-distilled spirits so special.

If you’d like to see what goes into every single drop, please visit our award-winning distillery very soon.

So when you’re looking for the world’s best spirits don’t travel the globe, head straight for The Cotswolds.

www.cotswoldsdistillery.com Phillip’s Field, Whichford Road, Stourton, Warwickshire. CV36 5HG Telephone: 01608 238533

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Catering for young diners Dining out with children presents foodie parents with some tough choices.

Is it best to go for something unchallenging that’s sure to meet with approval: pizza, again…? Or should you encourage children to experiment a bit, at the risk of them leaving the seared tuna untouched? Here, we present a young food reviewer’s perspective…

New parents soon discover that one of the sideeffects of starting a family is an abrupt end to elegant dining out.

During the early years, anything more glamorous than Giraffe can seem like a bridge too far. Teenies and toddlers, even the well behaved ones, make a mess. Their noise levels are unpredictable which can lead to a sense of guilt at spoiling other diners’ experience. This is often more than enough to spoil your own.

As children grow, things get easier in some regards but harder in others. Food may now stay on plates (or certainly at table level) but noise levels, if anything, increase. And there’s the increasing need for children to be fully immersed in an activity or burning off energy. Is there a safe garden in which they can play? Are there colouring pads and crayons which will keep them focussed until the food arrives? Resorting to screen time can seem like a bit of a cop-out.

It is surprising how few restaurants fit the bill when it comes to a really successful meal out for the whole family (albeit not all restaurants want to encourage family dining).

A recent trend we’ve noticed and would commend is the availability of half portions, at half prices, from the main menu for children.

A separate children’s menu all too often seems to equate to several fried options – all with chips – followed by ice cream, ice cream or ice cream.

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Any restaurant’s main menu should encompass sufficient variety that a child can be tempted to try at least one of the dishes in a half portion.

But all of this is written from a parent’s perspective. What makes a good meal out from a child’s point of view? We wanted to understand how a junior diner would rate three Cotswold gastropubs/restaurants which are personal favourites for family meals out: The Fleece in Witney, The Hare in Milton-under-Wychwood and The Seagrave Arms, near Chipping Campden.

We therefore asked Barney Coldridge, a nine year old pupil at Kitebrook School, to be our food critic for this feature in Cotswold Preview. With a finely attuned palate, the ability to describe food and ambiance both accurately and fairly, a diligent approach to supplying his reviews and a refreshing sense of fun, he scored top marks as a contributing writer. The marking system he has used in his own reviews is out of five stars.

The Fleece, Witney

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food review… CATERING FOR YOUNG DINERS Hello. I am Barney, I am nine years old and I’m doing the food reviews for this issue of Cotswold Preview. I hope you enjoy the article!

The Fleece, Witney 01993 892270 / OX28 4AZ / fleecewitney.co.uk I had lunch at The Fleece with my Mum and Dad and my little brother.

The food was lovely, it looked and tasted amazing. For a starter, I shared a Crab Cake dish and Grilled Octopus with my parents. Then for main course I had a lovely Grilled Rump Steak and chips. I simply adored it. Dad said it was seasoned and cooked to perfection. Last but not least I had pudding which was Peach and Ginger Parfait with Honeycomb.

It tasted lovely but was very hard and a bit difficult to chew. I think there should be a children’s menu but the half portions are a good idea.

The service was amazing. Everything came two minutes after you ordered it which was incredible, not to mention the waiters who were very helpful. The atmosphere was friendly and I really enjoyed the buzz and that you could have private conversations without anybody hearing what you were saying.

Overall, I give The Fleece five stars. I really liked it and recommend you go there.

The Hare, Milton-under-Wychwood 01993 835763 / OX7 6LA / themiltonhare.co.uk I went to The Hare with seven other people for Sunday lunch. I think the ambiance was very good and it felt lovely having everyone talking away around you. Everywhere in the pub felt safe and snug.

I loved the quality of the food but I think the menu should be more specific because I ordered Chicken Breast wrapped with Parma ham and creamed peas with lardons. What I got was chicken breast with peas, a cream sauce and lardons. I wasn’t that keen on the sauce and didn’t eat the peas or lardons. The service was friendly but slow and I think they could do with more staff.

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Barney Coldridge (left) pictured with his brother Monty at The Fleece, Witney

The summary is overall good but I think The Hare could do with being a bit more child friendly. A dedicated children’s menu would be good and might make it more popular with families. My editor says that the half portions for children are always on the generous side and good value but that’s a grown-up’s point of view.

Overall, I give The Hare three and a half stars.

The Seagrave Arms, near Chipping Campden 01386 840192 / GL55 6QH / seagravearms.com I went to the Seagrave Arms with my Mum and Dad on a Monday night which is pie night. I love pies so it was brilliant. They do really good pies and I think the ambiance was very lovely. There was an open fire which was snuggly and made everyone feel cosy and safe.

I think that the service was very friendly and there was a waitress who made me an elderflower and lemon mocktail. It was scrumptious. The food was good too and I loved my beef and ale pie.

The puff pastry was done perfectly and the contents of the pie really warmed you up. The only bad thing was that the chips were way too salty and I had to have a huge glass of water. For pudding I had slow cooked Apples with Ice cream, which tasted amazing.

Overall, I give The Seagrave Arms four and a half stars.

Thank you and goodbye, Barney Coldridge

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INN PROFILE

The Inn at Fossebridge, near Cirencester Midway between Northleach and Cirencester lies this 17th century coaching inn: a fine example of Georgian architecture set in four acres of grounds, complete with a lake. You can enjoy casual dining indoors or out, or stay over in one of its bedrooms or holiday cottages…

The Inn at Fossebridge is located in the hamlet of Fossebridge, just six miles north of Cirencester, where the Fosse Way drops into the valley of the River Coln. There has been an inn here for more than 300 years and today it is a charming retreat, with the original features remaining – exposed beams, stone walls, open fires and polished flagstone floors.

Experienced hotelier Dee Ludlow and her partner Geoff Collins became the new owners in late 2014, after the property equivalent of love at first sight. Dee explains, “We had looked at 40+ other properties all over England, Scotland and Wales but when we walked into The Inn at Fossebridge, we turned and looked at each other within 30 seconds and said, ’Yes, this is it’.

The rest is history.”

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Dee and Geoff immediately identified a lot of work that needed to be done but the major project was to rip out the kitchen and start again. Dee says, “We needed to ensure that the new kitchen was ’fit for purpose’. Five weeks after we purchased the inn, back in October 2014, we craned in a mobile kitchen and then totally stripped out the existing area and started again. The work was well planned and the total renovation only took three weeks. We opened on 8 December, just in time for Christmas.”

The inn’s daily specials and dining menus include dishes such as Honey Baked Capricorn Goats Cheese Salad with toasted pine nuts; Chargrilled Fossebridge Steak Sandwich with sautéed mushrooms and onions; and local Chedworth Pork Chop with a cider and apple sauce. Head Chef Dave Carter and his team have made casual dining

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inn profile… THE INN AT FOSSEBRIDGE

their particular focus and overlay popular dishes such as Prawn Cocktail, Fish and Chips, Cottage Pie and Burgers with a wow factor to produce ’best you’ve ever tasted’ meals.

In addition to à la carte, lunch and dinner menus, there are always freshly made sandwiches at lunchtime, Sunday roasts and a separate children’s menu. The kitchen likes to prepare lighter, fresher dishes in the summer and more robust, warming dishes during the winter. It also has a separate pie menu, offering hot water pastry pies with fillings including Rich Shin of Beef, Breton Chicken and Cotswold Venison. Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for, although the kitchen does request advance notice for its vegan menu to ensure that it has all the fresh ingredients to hand.

Situated in the grounds are two dog friendly holiday cottages, Stable Cottage (which sleeps four adults and two children) and Lakeside House (which sleeps ten), both Grade II listed buildings.

As its name suggests, Stable Cottage was formerly the stables for the neighbouring coaching inn and has been renovated to create a wonderfully characterful property. There are also nine bedrooms in the main house, each individually furnished with antique and period furniture.

The inn is known for being child and dog friendly, so makes an ideal base for families or

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walkers to have lunch when heading through the Coln valley towards Stowell Park, Yanworth or the National Trust’s Chedworth Roman Villa.

During the summer, the four acre garden with its wooden tables, chairs and parasols, offers the perfect spot to enjoy a drink, lunch or dinner al fresco. If you are planning your wedding, the Inn has two beautiful rooms with direct access to the terrace and lawns offering wonderful views over the gardens. The maximum numbers for a wedding breakfast are 58 but larger weddings can be catered for in a marquee on the lawn.

There are several new projects in the pipeline for Dee and Geoff who clearly thrive on being busy.

Dee adds, “We are thoroughly enjoying being the owners of The Inn at Fossebridge and very proud that we are enhancing this beautiful building. It is a pleasure to serve our guests, many of whom tell us they have been passing The Inn for years and never stopped but that they are so pleased they did and will return. We are passionate about the quality of our Real Ales and our food and we are honoured to have recently been awarded The North Cotswold CAMRA Seasonal Pub of the Year 2016.”

The Inn at Fossebridge: 01285 720721 / GL54 3JS / fossebridgeinn.co.uk

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CHEF PROFILE

TALIA MADDISON The catering company Cotswold Cooks started in the kitchens of Purton House, near Swindon, in the late 1980s. The founder and head cook is Talia Maddison and the business goes hand in hand with the family farm, Purton House Organics, which provides a constant supply of fresh produce. This suits Talia’s style of cooking – one focussed on simple, fresh ingredients and seasonal, rustic recipes…

Please could you tell us a little about your background and what first inspired you to follow a career in catering?

Having scraped through my degree, I left university with very little prospect of ever getting a “proper” job as I hated or was useless at most of them!

I went to London and worked as a waitress, where I was earning double the amount that my friends who worked in the city were. I then travelled for four years. On my return, I met my future husband, got married, had children and assumed that I would never have to write a CV again. But on the birth of my fifth child, my husband gently suggested that I may like to contribute to the family coffers in some way.

I could only think of doing some cooking and began by doing small corporate events using produce from our farm. Very quickly the demand soared and bookings poured in. I now run a successful business called Cotswold Cooks – which, for a totally unambitious and unfocussed person, ain’t bad!

What do you enjoy most about cooking?

I love a challenge and I don’t like repetition so I’m always trying out new recipes. I am always learning.

Recently, we cooked a Persian chicken recipe with

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roasted butternut squash and za’atar for the first time for 160 wedding guests – with one oven and a hot cupboard in a marquee in the middle of a field.

For me, that was absolutely marvellous.

What influences your choice of menu for an event?

The client is the biggest influence – I listen to them, find out a bit about the food they like, their favourite chefs, restaurants or pubs, and then together we plan a feast that hopefully will be remembered for years to come.

How long have you lived in the Cotswolds?

Since the end of the last century (1976).

How much of the produce that you use in your outside catering comes from the family farm?

For small events, nearly all the produce is from the farm and farm shop [Purton House Organics near Swindon]. I am lucky as we have such a large selection, so when I need anything I literally have to cross the road and bung it on my tab. For larger events, we go to Jessie Smith in Cirencester for the meat, John Walker for veggies and a dip into Waitrose for odds and ends.

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chef profile… TALIA MADDISON

A dish prepared by Talia Maddison

What do you look for in local suppliers?

I love the passion that small producers have for their produce. I am also a firm believer that food that has been grown locally is better for you, not only because it tends to be fresher but because it grows in the same environment that you are living in and for some unknown reason (to me) this is beneficial.

Which type of events do you most enjoy catering?

Definitely weddings as there is always a real buzz and often the bride and groom come up with amazing ideas. I also loved doing the Soil Association BOOM Awards at Borough Market.

Do you enjoy cooking at home and, if so, what do you like to make?

No, I don’t enjoy cooking at home at all! For some reason, I find I don’t have the energy to think up new ideas for the family so it’s the same old stuff week after week.

If there was one person in the world for whom you could cook, who would it be and what would you cook for them?

Could it be lots of people? I would love to cook

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for the pilgrims going to Canterbury in Chaucer’s Tales. At the end of the day, they’d be sitting around a massive oak table in an old pub, telling their stories with me listening in whilst cooking something really simple like salt beef and turnips.

If you hadn’t chosen to become a chef, what else would you have liked to be?

A nutritionist maybe, but I fear I would have been bored sitting in a room doing consultations.

Have you ever catered an especially memorable event and, if so, what was on the menu?

Yes, there is one in particular that springs to mind.

The event was for a big football club and I still get stupidly excited about cooking for very famous people. The club wanted us to come up with ideas for a day for the players and their families, so we put together a festival vibe. I just remember thinking: here I am, in one of the UK’s biggest football clubs, chatting to the team captain about putting fish heads in the stock for a paella. The day went really well and I’ve since gone back to cook for some of the players privately.

Cotswold Cooks: 01793 772999 / talia@cotswoldcooks.co.uk

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the

PREVIEWinterview

Lady Bathurst at Summerhill Academy for a Career Awareness Workshop organised by Teach First

Countess Bathurst In April this year, The Right Honourable The Countess Bathurst was ordained as the new High Sheriff of Gloucestershire. Sally Bult met her to discuss what the position entails and discovered how her love of literature has already inspired a new project helping improve literacy in prisons…

Congratulations on your recent appointment as High Sheriff of Gloucestershire. Please could you tell our readers a little about the role?

The position of High Sheriff is not elected. In Gloucestershire, each serving High Sheriff thinks of the name of a person who will then come into office four years hence. This name is put before a panel of various members of society – council, police, judiciary and previous High Sheriffs. I think in some counties the High Sheriff alone chooses, but in Gloucestershire we thought for reasons of transparency it would be a good idea to have a High Sheriff panel. Once approved by the panel, the person is asked whether they would like to take on the role.

It’s something you do think about quite carefully. The criteria for being High Sheriff include being an active member of the county, having

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done a bit for charity and your community, and being energetic, enthusiastic, kind and ready to roll up your sleeves up and get ’stuck in’. You only do it for a year and it’s a huge honour to be asked. I was astounded when I was asked to do it

by Mark Heywood.

Tony Blair tried to get rid of the office of High Sheriff, as he believed it was a drain on the purse. It used to be a role that had funding but this has now all gone. In order to save it, the High Sheriff had to become self-funded and this means that it is now an extremely expensive role to take on, with the travel expenses, secretarial expenses, use of a driver and the uniform all coming out of your own pocket. This is a shame as it means that an awful lot of people who would be absolutely brilliant in the role are counted out because it is so demanding on a private income.

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the Preview interview… COUNTESS BATHURST It is one of the oldest posts in the country – we think it was created in 972 – so it is a very historic and traditional role but one that still has huge relevance in modern times. I am incredibly fortunate to have a husband who is extremely supportive and it wasn’t without his agreement that I could take this on. It’s our way of doing our bit and giving something back to society, which is what we have always believed in.

What does being High Sheriff involve on a day to day basis?

On a weekly basis, I’ll attend about eight to ten visits or meetings. It is a full time job but it is hugely enjoyable. You have the ability to raise money during the year, which you then get to allocate. As an example, this morning at the High Sheriff Grants programme, I gave away just under £13,000 to different projects helping youths across the county. It was great fun! The High Sheriff office concentrates a lot on initiatives and projects geared toward helping young people: helping prevent them from indulging in anti-social behaviour, getting them off the streets, teaching them things like how to grow vegetables and all about nutrition.

We’re able to look at the requests for grants and can often join the dots by connecting different groups who can then help each other. It’s a wonderful way to get around the county and to discover how many amazing charities, projects, groups, clubs and cadets there are all over.

There are so many people giving their time for absolutely nothing but for the sheer enjoyment of looking after our young. And if it wasn’t for those volunteers I don’t think we could exist. As High Sheriff you do have the ability to go and visit some of these unsung heroes and tell them what a really good job they are doing and just thank them and give them a boost.

I am also learning a lot about the police, including how hard they work and how under-appreciated they are.

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Despite having had their funding cut, they still manage to fulfill the role. I do wish people would be kinder to them and I hope I can offer them a level of moral support. They are so committed to helping people and try to treat everyone with respect, fairness and kindness. I’ve done three shifts with them so far: a day at division, a night shift with Cheltenham and a day on traffic, which I have to say I enjoyed far too much! In another life I’d like to be a policewoman.

I’m also getting to work with the judiciary, both at Gloucester Crown Court with the fabulous Judge Jamie Tabor and with High Court judges in Bristol. It has been fascinating. In his term as High Sheriff, Mark Heywood started “Getting Court”– an initiative to take schoolchildren into court to see what happens, to learn about judges and to watch defendants getting sentenced. It’s a wonderful way to get children engaged with the legal process in the right way – for anyone toying with the idea of exploring the wrong side of the law, it’s a sharp wake-up call as to what could happen.

How do you go about making the role your own in the one year that you have?

It’s word of mouth: you need to keep your ear to the ground. You get to meet the most amazing group of people. My own passion is literature and I have been shocked to learn that between 60–70% of the offenders in our prisons are either innumerate or illiterate, and that breaks my heart. I wanted4

Gloucestershire’s High Sheriff ceremony

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to do something about it so I asked Suzy DymondWhite, the new governor of HM Prison Eastwood Park, what I could do to help these girls read and whether it would be possible to start a book club.

I now have a group of up to 10 prisoners and we read a book together once a fortnight. It’s simply about getting them reading. If someone can’t read, there’s a whole other world that is shut off to them. I also feel strongly that not being able to read or write is one of the main catalysts for crime. You’re really cut off from society when you can’t read a job application let alone fill one in and you can’t write a CV. You just cannot function.

You’re probably on benefits, which aren’t very generous, and you’ve lots of time on your hands… and the inevitable happens. I do truly believe that by helping inmates become literate, they will have a better chance of integrating into society when they are released from prison.

Although there are programmes in place in prisons to help with literacy, I wanted to do something that would help those taking part to challenge themselves. At the start, I gave them a choice of three books and they selected “The Other Boleyn Girl” by Philippa Gregory. What is really interesting to see is that a group of prisoners

who have all led a pretty tough life are now fully engaged with this book. When I read to them, you can hear a pin drop. One of the young women taking part, who suffers from schizophrenia, says that learning to read has helped her calm down because she’s able to get into a book. I really look forward to my meetings with the group and I love talking to the women. We are just so lucky in our cottonwool environment with nice houses and kind husbands and dogs and we lead busy, fulfilling lives – but these people have not had a very good chance in life, with abuse, mistrust, alcohol, beatings and a whole catalogue of errors. If I can help just a few of them, I will feel that my time has been well spent.

The book club is something I’d like to carry on past my year of being High Sheriff because committing to something like that is a long-term project. The other exciting thing we’re doing is opening a WI branch at Eastwood Park, which I’m chuffed to bits about.

How do you juggle these duties with your other charitable works?

Well, it does sometimes feel like juggling! All the charities I work with are causes that are close to my heart – animals, for example. I’m Patron of Dog’s Trust, Labrador Rescue Trust and Golden Retriever Club of Great Britain. I’ve got six dogs, so can you see the connection here?! I’ve also just become Patron to the Barn Owl Centre in Gloucester. Other charities of which I am a Patron are the Cirencester Hospital League of Friends, Royal Wessex Yeomanry, LINC in Cheltenham and Salters Hill in Newent. They do all know that I’m not ignoring them this year but that I can’t be as present as I normally am while I’m High Sheriff.

What do you love most about living in Cirencester?

I love the atmosphere. It’s a reasonably large market town and has a great community feel and spirit to it. It has good shopping, too, and there’s a sense of pride in the town and its history.

A day shift with the Gloucestershire Traffic Police

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How do you think towns can move forward without losing their charm?

I think tradition and modernity go hand in hand and can be synergized but it has to be done carefully

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the Preview interview… COUNTESS BATHURST and with compassion. I think Brits by nature are wary of change. However, I think any town, no matter where it is, has to embrace change and expansion in order to survive. If that means embracing modern buildings like St James’s Place then so be it – how many market towns in the Cotswolds can boast a FTSE 100 company in their midst?

I think that it is wonderful – it brings people, money and progress to the town.

The Cotswold Show takes place this month at Cirencester Park. What does the annual show mean to you?

I go every year – it’s one of the most important weekends in my husband’s life and I’ll be there to support it, as always. It’s a wonderful weekend and, my goodness, how it has grown! This year, we have the The Royal Signals White Helmets Motorcycle display team and The Shetland Pony Grand National – which is hysterical – and the shopping, which was so good last year, the best ever, I think. It’s very much a family show and people love coming to it.

I think it is very good value for money and it’s also very traditional. My husband has stayed true to country traditions and country arts and craft – there really is something there for everyone. You almost need a weekend ticket as there’s so much to see.

You obviously have a very full schedule, but how do you like to spend any free time?

My other passion is my holiday cottages. I have three up here – one in Sapperton and two in Kemble – and I have one in Devon now. I inherited my childhood home from a beloved elderly aunt in 2014 and have spent two years and a small fortune renovating it to a five star standard. It sleeps 12 and has a stunning kitchen and a three acre garden, five miles from the coast and ten miles from Lyme Regis. It is a house that means the world to me – I spent the happiest days of my childhood there and I still sneak down there for some peace

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Lady Bathurst visiting The Great Western Air Ambulance charity

and quiet when I have some spare time. It has this wonderful atmosphere that just envelops you. One little girl who stayed there recently burst into tears when she was told they were leaving the following morning. Apparently she said, “I don’t want to leave the happy house.” I think that sums it up!

As High Sheriff, you now join five other women in some of the county’s most senior positions: Bishop, the Right Reverend Rachel Treweek; Dame Janet Trotter, who became the Lord-Lieutenant of Gloucestershire in 2010; Suzette Davenport as the Chief Constable, and Helen Ryder and Suzy Dymond-White as Governors overseeing both Leyhill Prison and Eastwood Park Prison respectively. Do you think the fascination with gender in such roles is helpful?

This is not some great conspiracy. All these women got the jobs because they’re the best ones for the role – it’s got nothing to do with whether or not they wear a skirt. I truly believe that women’s equality in the workplace is paramount and that those women who are doing the same job as a man ought to be treated equally. However, I don’t understand the feminist view sometimes expressed that women are supposed to be equal in everything.

I still like the door held open for me, I still like a gentleman to offer me his seat and I still like a man to stand up when I enter a room. I’m quite old fashioned when it comes to manners and chivalry.

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A wedding ceremony in the cloistered courtyard at Matara

Matara Located just outside Tetbury, Matara offers a relaxed setting for any special occasion, with a unique East-meets-West ambiance…

Whether hosting 25 guests or 200, Matara provides a unique location with an atmosphere of calm and relaxation at its heart. It is an intimate space for a celebration: happiness, cherishing others and finding true love are all inspired by the surroundings and East-meets-West style of architecture.

Owner Geoffrey Higgins explains his vision for Matara, saying, “It was set up 21 years ago as a beautiful and relaxing place that people could respond to – where they could relax and

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just be themselves.” Having spent many years in Vancouver – which had, at that time, the world’s second largest Chinatown – Geoffrey had become interested in Eastern wisdom. Matara is an expression of his values and beliefs, and the centre is run as a social enterprise with a focus on wellbeing.

When people started asking whether their weddings could also be held at Matara, these requests were accommodated and the venue now hosts around 70 weddings per year.

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venue of the month… MATARA It is indeed the perfect spot for anyone wanting a less commercial venue at which to hold their special occasion. Geoffrey, who is also a celebrant, says that the number of blessings held at Matara has increased over the last five years as couples look for a more meaningful expression of their commitment to one another. He says, “We have some wonderfully deep conversations with each other and I have met some extraordinary people.”

Outdoor wedding ceremonies can take place in the cloistered courtyard, which is inspired

by Chinese architecture and surrounds an ornamental pool with koi carp. Alternatively, the Hilarium space holds around 200 guests for larger functions. Converted carriage houses and stables are additional areas for quiet conversation and contemplation.

If you are planning a wedding, the emphasis is placed on you feeling free to create the event of your dreams. Support is provided by Matara’s friendly and helpful wedding coordinators, who work with the centre’s in-house chef to create each bespoke occasion. Al fresco or silver service dining, traditional hog roast or Indian buffet, vegan or dairy-free: the choice is yours.

At the heart of Matara lies Kingscote Park House, a Grade II listed Regency house which sleeps 16 in eight luxuriously furnished bedrooms.

The house centres on an expansive farmhouse kitchen and informal dining area that opens onto a private courtyard. There are further rooms for entertaining or simply ’kicking back’, making the house the ideal place for family and friends

The Hilarium at Matara

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The gardens at Matara provide a stunning backdrop for wedding photography

to relax and reconnect before, during and after any special event. The house is also licensed for wedding ceremonies of up to 30 people.

The property’s original lodge has been beautifully converted into a secluded studio apartment, where bride and groom may choose to spend their first night together as husband and wife. Additionally, four Zen rooms – all with private bathrooms – in the converted stables close to the house each sleep two people.

The tranquil grounds at Matara offer endless photo opportunities throughout the seasons.

There are woodland areas of oak, beech, apple trees, rowan and groves of magnolia, with an area dedicated to encouraging wildlife, bees and butterflies. 28 acres have been sculpted and nurtured for over 20 years to showcase nature’s harmony and balance: there are now 11 distinct gardens and three small lakes allowing guests to reconnect with nature. For every couple tying the knot at Matara, a rose or a tree is planted and dedicated to them.

Perfectly summing up Matara’s special appeal, Geoffrey says, “The number of people who return on their anniversary or with their families to share a picnic in the gardens shows what a heartfelt relationship they have formed with the place.”

Matara: 01453 861050 / GL8 8YA / matara.co.uk

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Life’s too short to drink bad wine

www.blenheimfinewines.com

07775 938742 158

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specialist business profile… QETTY BANG BANG

QETTY BANG BANG Keen to dispel the myth of boutiques as being expensive or intimidating, Fran Polley, the new owner of Qetty Bang Bang in Tetbury, encourages customers to visit and “potter around” her shop. With a range of fashions designed to suit all ages, sizes and budgets, there’s a strong chance you won’t come out empty handed…

Taking ownership of an established boutique may seem a daunting prospect. After all, how do you make it your own without losing loyal customers?

For Fran Polley, who became the new owner of Tetbury boutique Qetty Bang Bang in May 2015, it offered an exciting new challenge.

Having worked for 20 years as a merchandiser for mail order catalogues, Fran knew exactly what she really wanted to do. She says, “I’d always held a life long ambition to own my own shop. In January, as I was having the ’New Year rethink’, Qetty Bang Bang became available and that was that.”

Qetty had started off primarily as a vintage fashion store before new collections were added to its range, and although Fran will keep a vintage element, the majority of stock now consists of contemporary fashion pieces. “Ladies will often go out in jeans with a special top rather than an outfit as such, and that’s what we want to stock: a selection of nice, new, interesting pieces to dress up a casual outfit.”

This involves lots of research on the internet and Fran is not averse to asking customers what

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labels they are wearing when they come in the shop. She also keeps an eye on shows and showrooms and relies on the all important wordof-mouth recommendations. Due to the proximity of other boutiques in Tetbury and Cirencester, Fran likes to discover new brands and to offer something different and surprising. The shop also stocks contemporary giftware and jewellery.

There isn’t a typical Qetty customer, which is something that has surprised Fran: “I thought when I started that I would quickly be able to identify my customer. I realized that there isn’t one – I think I could sell to a 16 year old and also to someone who is 90 years old. This makes it more difficult for me but also more interesting! Instead of being dictated to by a particular market, I’m now just buying what I like and putting my own stamp on the shop. It’s a bit eclectic – from the quirky to the sophisticated, but it certainly offers things that can be worn every day.”

Labels such as Danish brand Rabens Soloner epitomise the top end of stylish casual, while Emily and Fin is more retro and ’50s in essence.

Best sellers include Spanish brand Indi and 4

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specialist business profile… QETTY BANG BANG

Qetty Bang Bang boutique in Tetbury

Cold: a quirky mix of feminine print and colour.

Fran’s extension of shoe stock has also paid off with the popularity of Candice Cooper’s groovy baseball boots. Unlike the mail order industry, in which you can gauge a product’s success within two weeks, Fran now has to adjust to the fluctuations of retail. Although busy in the shop throughout the week and on Saturdays, Fran is in the process of developing the online side of the business by updating and improving the existing website. She also has a vision of having another shop in the future. As she puts it, “I’d really like to drift into menswear as I think there’s a gap in the market. I’d love to have a shop in Bristol, perhaps in Clifton or Montpelier.”

Fran is quick to point out that boutiques can sometimes feel intimidating. At Qetty Bang Bang, she is determined to encourage anyone who has had that kind of experience in a boutique previously to come in and be surprised. She says, “I am warm and chatty and a size 18 myself – I know how difficult it can be to find clothing that fits, so I make sure I have pieces that will suit everyone. Items of jewellery can start at £10 and although some of the clothing may have high end prices, there is something for everyone in between.”

As a lover of fashion, Fran is relishing her new venture. She says, “Unlike my last job, this is just so social and I love the varied nature of every day. I love buying and I love clothes – so Qetty is pretty perfect for me.”

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