All served with d a up h inois potatoes or frites and honey roasted root v
V e gan and glut e n fre e main course also available to orde r
Our food is prepared in a kitchen where allergens may be present. Please ask the front of house team if you have concerns.
Rose Langley
Idon’t come from Frome originally, but not far off. I grew up in a little village just outside Bath. My grandparents lived in Midford and Bath, and when my parents divorced one moved to Bradford on Avon, the other eventually, to a little village just outside Frome. I moved to Bristol after a strange one-year stint in London (that’s for another time!), and then came here 13 years ago. This little geographical history of me and mine means that this entire area has huge sentimental value for me. Many places within a 20 mile radius hold memories from the last 44 years, and I realised lately that I live in a permanent haze of nostalgia. Recent visits to Victoria Park in Bath recall to mind a 14-year old, desperately trying to be noticed by the skateboarders while also attempting to remain aloof and mysterious (not a success). Seeing images in the summer from friends swimming at Warleigh Weir takes me back to far quieter days there, blissfully swimming up the river and walking back to town along the canal. (Also the time my friend jumped in and got his foot stuck in the ribcage of a submerged cow. True story.) Taking my son to Longleat for his birthday last month took me back to my 10th birthday there, with my friend Jane who was sick in the car and hated the entire experience.
Our regular walks in Mells remind me of sitting in my aunt’s camper van just up the lane, with all my cousins, aunts and uncles, eating cheese rolls after an enormous Easter Monday walk from Midford, via Tuckers Grave for crisps and shandy. When we moved to Mells 13 years ago, seeing the huge tree that marked our entry into the Mells Daffodil Festival actually made me cry, so reminiscent was it of those gorgeous days spent with the people I loved. Some of my family still do this walk every year. We are a soppy lot and like our familiar points on both the map and calendar. I share these stories with my eight-year old. He is a chip off the old block when it comes to being sentimental, and I see how my years spent here, and his knowledge of them, will increase his connection to, and enjoyment of, his own Somerset youth.
I often daydream about living in wilder climes. Many places call to me, places less populated by people and more by trees and animals. And maybe one day I shall heed those calls. But for now, surrounded by these little snapshots of my life and the people I have known and loved, I feel hugely privileged to know that I am exactly where I am meant to be.
FMTC present Sleeping Beauty
Frome Memorial Theatre, 28th December - 4th January
Step into a fairy-tale world of royal castles, magical fairies and a beautiful princess, with the brilliant Frome Musical Theatre Company. With mesmerising music and a wicked spell or two, this dream of a pantomime should not be missed, with all the best-loved panto shenanigans live on stage, an abundance of laughter, special effects and plenty of audience participation. The perfect festive treat for the entire family to enjoy. Tickets are available from www.fromememorialtheatre.org.uk
Birds of a Feather exhibition
OWL Gallery
Frome’s longest-standing independent art gallery, OWL, is celebrating its resident artists this month, with a new group exhibition “Birds of a Feather’’ opening on 14th November. You are warmly invited to immerse yourself in a wonderful array of art forms - from works in glass and porcelain, to printmaking, painting, kinetic sculpture, jewellery, digital art and mixed media. OWL is an artist collective, meaning there is no commission – thereby making pieces affordable and accessible to art lovers.
Celebrate Christmas at Bistro Lotte, one of Frome’s best-loved eateries, as their incredible Christmas menu will be served throughout December including all day on Christmas Eve. Christmas parties are very welcome at both the Bar and Bistro, with cocktails and canapés available in Bar Lotte and lovely festive music evenings, mulled wine and cider, carols and plenty of festive cheer throughout December. The talented kitchen team also offer an At Home experience, catering delicious food for you to eat in the comfort of your own space. Just call to discuss your options.
01373 300646 | bistrolottefrome.co.uk
and Tess Chodan for a glass of mulled wine and an informal chat with the makers of the artworks on Thursday 14th November between 6pm and 8pm.… they will be showing exciting new work and are keen to share their processes and inspirations. The exhibition continues into the new year.
owlgalleryfrome.co.uk | @owl_frome
Frome Creatives
Eco & Wild Christmas Wreath Workshop
Vallis Farm, 23rd November, 5 - 7:30 pm
Join Naomi from Little Flourish for a magical wreath making workshop, where the spirit of the season meets sustainability! This hands-on experience invites you to create a stunning wreath working with a huge range of foraged and locally grown greenery, dried flowers, leaves, seed heads, feathery grasses and berries, ensuring that each piece is unique and environmentally friendly. Enjoy this experience in the ultimate Christmassy location at Vallis Farm. All materials are provided and no experience is necessary. However, if you have anything that you would like to add in to your wreath, then please do bring it along. Mulled wine, non alcoholic refreshments and mince pies included for your merriment! vallisfarm.co.uk
Christmas Wine & Cheese Tasting
The Bennett Centre, 5th December, 5.30pm - 7pm or 7.30pm - 9pm, £12
As the Stores nears their first birthday at the beginning of December, they are hosting a special Christmas tasting at the beautiful Bennett Centre in Frome to showcase over 60 favourite wines alongside their selection of British cheese. They’ll be offering customers a chance to taste a large selection of their small producer wines and decide on a few to accompany the Christmas table this year. Abi and Sarah will be joined by importers and producers to help bring the wines to life on the night for a celebration of their first year trading and the start of the festive season.
Made In Frome Festive Fair
Silk Mill, 7th December, 10am - 4.30pm
Returning to the Silk Mill this December is the ever so Christmassy Made In Frome Festive Fair. Last year’s fair hosted a diverse range of makers, creating a truly unique market. This year, visitors will find group of exceptional work from talented makers, including prints from Pressed & Folded, leatherwork from Badger House Leather, ceramics from Emma Chapman Pottery, skincare from Hibi Botanics, guitars from West Valley Guitars, kantha waistcoats from Wolf Kind Wear, willow baskets from Organic Matters, and a whole lot more. Once again, season refreshments will be provided by Pomona Supper Club (anyone for a repeat of that Hot Buttered Rum?) from her beautiful vintage caravan. If the festive spirit is proving elusive, get yourself down to the Made In Frome Festive Fair.
10% off cases bought on the night, with free delivery in the Frome area. To book go to www.thestoresinfrome.co.uk
The Independent December Market will be the oneyear anniversary of the Stores’ opening, and they will be opening a few special bottles to celebrate, so pop in from 11am -3pm on the Sunday to join in.
Makers’ Yard Christmas Market
30th November 2pm - 6pm
The Makers’ Yard Christmas Market is back! Pop down for an incredible line-up of artists and makers from near and wide selling prints, ceramics, jewellery, stationery, textiles, skin care and gifts. Moo & Two will be providing mulled cider, there will be street food from Burrito Bambino and delicious festive goodies and hot drinks by Pomona Supper Club. Come and buy from local, independent businesses this Christmas and enjoy the festive atmosphere with all of the best Christmas tunes, projected animations and an extra special festive performance from Utterance Choir.
20th & 21st Century Master on Your Doorstep
Black Swan Arts, Round Tower, 30th October - 3rd November, 10am - 4pm
This Autumn, Hidden Gallery will be exhibiting a collection of rare and hand-signed prints in Frome. For a limited time only, you’ll find household names such as Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Tracey Emin and Henri Matisse available for sale right on your doorstep. Printmaking boasts a rich and proud legacy stretching back centuries. The greatest artists don’t just use the printmaking process to create iconic images; they advance the medium through innovation. The most eminent artists of both modern and contemporary art boast a fabulous legacy of creating extraordinary original
Art Open Market
Bennett Centre, 30th November 10am - 5pm & 1st December 10am - 4pm
The people of Frome Open Art Trail, well known for their open studio event in July, are organising their first Artists Christmas Market, located at the Bennett Centre, Vicarage Street in Frome on Saturday 30th November from 10am to 5pm and Sunday 1st December, from 10am to 4pm, with free entry to the public. 18 local artists and makers will be selling their gorgeous hand-crafted gifts and artwork including textiles, ceramics, original paintings and prints, designer knits and jewellery. The Café at Victoria Park is joining us to offer delicious snacks and festive refreshments. A Christmas Market not to be missed!
20th & 21st Century Masters on Your
www.frome-open-art-trail.co.uk
full of surprises and, as always, this year’s show will include an exciting, vibrant and diverse range of artworks. The society has many talented local artists among its members. You will have an opportunity to vote for your favourite artwork, and there will be unframed paintings, prints and cards to buy.
Frome Art Society was founded in 1979 by Charles and Vera Appleyard and Charles Hopkins. It is a warm and inclusive group, welcoming people from across a wide spectrum of artistic interests and practices. Members can take part in a varied programme of workshops, talks and demonstrations, outdoor painting days, two annual exhibitions and currently a Friday Art Club.
The Silk Mill Secret Studios
Silk Mill Studios, 29th - 30th November
A selection of artists working at Silk Mill Studios are offering a chance to come and have a look behind the scenes. See the artists in their studios and find out about the work that goes into creating each piece. You’ll be able to buy direct from the artists too. The preview evening is on Friday 29th from 6pm –8pm-ish with drinks, and the studios are also open on Saturday 30th November 11am - 4pm.
The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists
Merlin Theatre, 21st - 23rd November, 7.30pm, £14
This was the book that “won the 1945 election for Labour” said Alan Sillitoe; the book that George Orwell said “everyone should read”. It is the story of a group of painters and decorators working in Edwardian England, living in near poverty, exploited by the wealthy owners, struggling to earn enough to have the “necessities of life”. Our production is Stephen Lowe’s adaptation for Joint Stock. We watch the painters as they transform the Mayor’s house; listen to their stories, their arguments, and we follow them on their journey towards a new understanding. We join them at their annual “Beano”: the summer outing when once a year they get to relax and enjoy themselves. It is a play told through humour and wit, the hymns and the Music Hall songs of the era and the portrayal of the grimness of their world; a world that, sadly, hasn’t changed nearly enough. www.ticketsource.co.uk/ Merlin-Theatre-Trust-Ltd/e-oblzdx
The Frome Art Society Autumn Exhibition
12 November – 31 December
A fun, festive trail with the delightful dogs from Alice Tait’s storybook No, Nancy, No! a Dog Chase in New York. Explore the American garden and museum to find all the dogs in their Santa hats, using Alice’s beautifully illustrated map as your guide. americanmuseum.org
Books, Glorious Books! Gifting perfection at Hunting Raven
The team at Hunting Raven have been busy coming up with lots of lovely ways to add a dash of joy to your Christmas shopping this year, and they’ve come up with three lovely gift ideas we think you will love.
The ‘Ravenous for Books’ Subscription
Treat your loved one to a 3, 6, 9 or 12 month book subscription with Hunting Raven. Their book subscriptions are available for adults and children, and are fully bespoke. The team will give the recipient a good grilling about what they love to read, and send them an exciting book each month. Each paperback book is lovingly wrapped with a handwritten note explaining the choice. For locals able to collect, there’s even a ‘birthday bonus’ thrown in for subscriptions of six months and above.
The
Hunting Raven Golden Envelope
With a Golden Envelope your loved one will feel like a proper
VIP whenever they visit the shop. Simply stuff a Golden Envelope with as much credit as you like, then let your loved one know it’s in the shop, ready to spend! The Golden Envelopes are especially popular with children – giving them the gift of browsing, choosing, and paying independently. Kept safely in the shop, the credit never lapses and you’ll never lose another book token again!
‘Raven’s Nest’ Book Bundles
Thoughtfully curated and beautifully presented, these bundles are brimming with brilliant books around a chosen theme. There’s currently a number of exciting options to choose from, and the team will continue to add more as they go. If you would like to create a bespoke bundle, just pop into the shop to discuss.
For more information, pop in to Hunting Raven on Cheap Street, or go to winstonebooks.co.uk
In the run-up to Christmas we have organised a big fundraiser to raise money for the vital work of Medical Aid for Palestinians, working on the ground in Palestine. We will be raffling off a huge festive hamper, filled with incredible gifts from some of Frome’s best businesses and creatives, including artworks from Laura Holden Studio, Chris Pig and Amanda Bee, vouchers for Christina Oswin Jewellery, Postscript, Kobi & Teal and Frome Boulder Rooms and a goodie bag from Marchbank Jewellery. We have pottery from Emma Chapman and Pippa Flack, skincare from Hibi Botanics, a stunning silk scarf from Silken Favours, a crate of beer from Palmer Street Bottle and so so much more!
Entries cost £10 and you can buy as many as you like. For a full list of items in the hamper, to find out how to buy entries and to be in with a chance of winning the best Christmas present ever, go to https://www. justgiving.com/page/thelistfromefestivehamper. The draw will take place on 16th December.
We are so grateful to everyone for their donations. So a huge thank you to the brilliant:
Christina Oswin Jewellery, Chris Pig, Gearing Davies, Palmer Street Bottle, Alizarin Studio, Laura Holden, If Lost Start Here, Neighbour Utility, Hannah Carding, Hung, Drawn & Quoted, Millie Moon, Hibi Botanics, Hook me
Up, Violet Von Riot, Vintage Bazaar, Pippa Flack Pottery, Kobi & Teal, Silken Favours, Restack Pilates, River House, The Stores, Japonica accessories, Emma Chapman, Boulder Rooms, Postscript, Amanda Bee, Loud Mouth Coffee, Sweet & Wild, Gillian Usher and Marchbank Jewellery.
If you would like to donate something to the hamper, there is still time. Get in touch:
A Christmas Carol
Banish those Bah Humbugs!
The festive season is nearly upon us, and there’s one story that embodies the heart and soul of Christmas more than any other: Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Directed by Daisy Mercedes (seen on Channel 4 and Channel 5 documentaries Lighting up Christmas, and designer of Longleat’s Festival of Light) Merlin Theatre productions are thrilled to invite you to the Merlin Theatre in Frome for a special production of this timeless tale, filled with music, laughter and festive joy that will light up the holiday season for the whole family.
This isn’t just any version of A Christmas Carol - Merlin Theatre Productions are bringing the brilliant musical version composed by Alan Menken to the stage. If that name rings a bell, it should! Alan Menken is the genius behind the unforgettable music from Disney classics like The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast. His magical, heart-warming melodies lift this cherished tale to new heights, giving the production the enchantment of the most beloved Disney musicals.
Daisy explained, “When I first heard the music, I knew immediately that this adaptation was something truly special. The songs are full of warmth, wit and wonder, adding layers of charm and emotion that make the story of Ebenezer Scrooge not only more relatable, but irresistibly fun! Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Dickens’ classic or this is your first time experiencing the story, the magic of Menken’s score will transport you to a world where redemption, joy and the Christmas spirit come alive through song.”
“My goal for this production has been to ensure that while we honour the depth of the story, we also make it a joyful and uplifting experience from beginning to end.”
“For me as a director, one of the most exciting challenges was to balance the gravity of Scrooge’s journey with the joy and wonder of the Christmas season. At its core, A Christmas Carol is about transformation - about the joy that comes from embracing love, generosity and human connection. But let’s face it, Scrooge’s world can be a little gloomy at the start. My goal for this production has been to ensure that while we honour the depth of the story, we also make it a joyful and uplifting experience from beginning to end. After all, it’s the season to be merry, not melancholy!”
“you’ll leave with a heart warmed by the spirit of Christmas.”
The theatre is a place for everyone, and this production of A Christmas Carol is designed with families in mind. Whether you’re bringing little ones, teens or grandparents, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With plenty of laughter, uplifting moments, and a sprinkle of Christmas magic, it’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday celebrations. So don’t be a humbug, and get it in the diary, book your tickets and bring your loved ones, share in the magic of the season, and rediscover the joy of Dickens’ timeless story - told through unforgettable songs and performances. “You’ll laugh, you’ll hum (hopefully not humbug) along, and most importantly, you’ll leave with a heart warmed by the spirit of Christmas. Expect spectacular costumes, a dazzling set, and a story filled with playful humour that will have both kids and adults enchanted. My vision is to bring out the magic, comedy and wonder of A Christmas Carol - ensuring it’s an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.”
The Merlin Theatre’s production of A Christmas Carol runs from the 6th - 14th December. Tickets are on sale now, so make sure to book early to avoid disappointment. Whether it’s a family tradition or a new holiday experience, this is a must-see show that will become a beloved part of your Christmas memories.
Sketches Of Life
by Hannah Carding
Hannah Carding is an artist and illustrator living just outside Frome. Hannah has a unique and highly recognisable style and a wide body of work. She has created impactful political sketches, illustrated a collection of work for the Imperial War Museum, and also deeply heartening artworks inspired by English folk lore and traditional rural ways, traditions and rituals.
“I draw and illustrate when I can - a combination of direct observation, taking photos, memory and my imagination.”
“I love working in a range of mediums - pen and ink, charcoal and pencil.”
Along with a new body of work she has been creating, drawing hedge layers in the south west to shed light on the people and practices of the traditional craft, Hannah has branched out, making sketches, portraits and illustrations on a commission basis. She has recently completed a number of animal portraits in mixed media using charcoal/pastel pencils and willow charcoal sticks that she makes herself, and is now offering her services, to draw a beloved person or animal, in her emotive style.
To view more of her work or get in touch, either visit her Instagram page @hannahecarding or her website www.hannahcarding.com
Every month we place the spotlight on street food from a favourite travel inspiration or pop culture behemoth. A short lived set of specials you’ll find just once, running alongise our core classics
This month California in Fall is our inspiration. Swing by before Thanksgiving to try out:
Banh Mi Wings
Kimchi Cheese Bites
Tteokkochi Skewers
Irv’s Turkey Burger
Cali French Dip
Boozy Watermelon Lemonade
Autumm Margarita’s & More
Food served 5-9 Monday - Thursday, 3.30 -9.30 Friday, 12-9.30 Saturday, 12-8 Sunday Take out or Eat in at The Ship, 6 Christchurch St West, Badcox Booking advised, but walk ins welcome
Christmas Parties at The Ship
Fancy ditching the turkey this Christmas & joining us for legendary burgers, craft beer and cocktails instead ? We’ve got you...
Menu One
TWO COURSES & TWO DRINKS 39
Any Appy, Main and Side
Menu Two
THREE COURSES & THREE DRINKS 55
Any Appy, Main, Side and Dessert
Book online at coopkitchen.co.uk/christmas
Christmas Lights Switch On
The celebratory Christmas Light Switch
On is set to take place on Friday 22nd November, 5pm to 7pm, and once again Frome Town Council are inviting residents to join in the festivities by making their own unique lantern for the parade. To ensure a healthy ratio of lanterns to people, the council team ask for a maximum of two people per lantern in the parade.
This year’s theme is Winter Woodland. Creations will include mice, deer, foxes and badgers, and it’s your opportunity to get as imaginative as you can. If you’d like a bit of direction and guidance, bookings are now open for the community workshops. The first one is at Frome Library on Saturday 2nd November, 10am -11.15am. The rest will be held at the Silk Mill: Friday 15th November at 5pm, Saturday 16th November, 10am - 12pm and 1pm - 3pm and Sunday 17th November, 10.30am - 12pm and 1pm - 3pm.
All the sessions are free, you just need to purchase the material kits which come in a variety of sizes and are available at the workshops or ahead of time from Discover Frome at the Library or Town Hall. Booking is essential, so please see the event page.
Cllr, Mark Dorrington said, “The Christmas Light Switch On signals the start of the festive season in Frome and always starts with a sparkly bang, thanks
to Frome’s enthusiasm and creativity. So we’re calling on you again to get involved and make it an event not to be forgotten! We’re also very excited about the entertainment for this year, ranging from traditional Christmas cheer with Frome Town Band and Frome Choir, to international swing singer and showman Andrew Bourn, to the uplifting and energetic The Enrichments. Make sure the date is in your diaries.”
Father Christmas is also coming to town thanks to local charity We Hear You (WHY). You can book a slot between 4.30pm and 7.30pm for up to four children to visit Santa in his grotto at the WHY office (opposite Frome Museum). The grotto costs just £4 per child, with a gift and a sweet treat, and the money raised at the grotto supports WHY’s vital emotional support services for children, young people and adults who have been affected or bereaved by cancer and life-threatening conditions.
The search for the Mayor’s Christmas Card has also begun, with children up to age 12 being asked to submit their Winter Woodland artistic offerings for this year’s card by 5pm on Friday 25th October 2024.
Find out more about Frome’s Light Switch On, book lantern workshops and find links for the Christmas card competition and the WHY Santa’s grotto at www.discoverfrome.co.uk/christmas-in-frome
Faran Travel is a new tailor-made travel company based in Frome that specialises in sustainable, wildlife adventures around the world. Travel doesn’t have to cost the earth and Faran focusses on experiences and destinations that make a positive impact to the environment, wildlife and local communities.
Faran’s founder Josh came to work in the travel industry more by accident than by design, having first visited Africa during his Conservation Biology degree course, on a field trip to South Africa. A couple of years later, he travelled back to Africa, volunteering on wildlife research projects in Namibia. There began a more in-
depth relationship with travel as he embarked on a career crafting bespoke trips, initially with a focus on planning safaris to southern and eastern Africa.
“Our goal is to create unforgettable travel experiences, combining modern luxury adventure with meaningful, positive impact” says Josh.
During the best part of the last ten years he has travelled around the world. Wildlife, wild places and photography are normally at the heart of his trips. “I am dedicated to crafting personalised itineraries that cater to my clients’ unique preferences and interests. Whether they’re seeking a private camping safari in the wilds of the Okavango Delta, swimming with whale sharks off the coast of St. Helena, or tracking pumas in Patagonia, I’ve got you covered.”
To discuss tailoring your trip of a lifetime contact Josh at FaranTravel.com
Make your next holiday one to remember on a tailor-made adventure with Frome-based travel company, Faran Travel.
We specialise in trips to the world’s wildest corners across Southern and Eastern Africa, South America, South-East Asia, Antarctica and the Arctic.
Whether you’re looking for a safari, planning a honeymoon, or wanting to explore the world with your family, call Faran’s founder Josh on 020 3290 8688 for a chat and to see where we can take you.
farantravel.com | @farantravel
• Home help and light housework
• Laundry and bed changing
• Shopping and meal preparation
• Trips out / Help attending appointments
• Support with interests / Gardening
• Dementia support
• Hospital discharge support
• Welfare checks / Medication prompting
• Help with admin / IT support
• Respite breaks for carers
• Dog walking / Pet care
• Companionship / Just being there
Home care and support the way it should be.
We care. Our commitment to supporting our care team, ensures you get happy, well-trained carers that guarantee your care and support is done the way you would want it.
Whether you or a loved one need immediate support or are exploring options for the future, we’re here to guide you through your care journey.
RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2022
Gold Metal & Best in Show
Top 50 Garden Designers of the Year 2022 & 2023 House & Garden
Best International Garden 2024 Society of Garden Designers
Lulu Urquhart and Adam Hunt set out on a landscape design partnership 20 years ago, rooting their practice in a shared passion for romantic planting schemes, ecological harmony, applied horticulture, authentic craftsmanship and outstanding design.
We provide a full range of services from installation, service and repair of full central heating systems and boilers through to bathroom, kitchen and water softener installations. Call us now for a FREE no-obligation quote!
Frome 01373 452225
Melksham 01225 617779
Trowbridge 01225 754021
Warminster 01985 213350
Westbury 01373 301448
garstonvets.co.uk
Qigong Vallis Farm, 10:00 - 11:30, £12
20th & 21st Century Master on Your Doorstep
Black Swan Arts, Round Tower, 10am - 4pm
Frome Creatives Exhibition Preview Black Swan Arts, 6 - 8pm
Frome Festival Fundraiser with Alberta Cross Something Moves & Broccoli Boy, 23 Bath Street, 7pm, £10
Video Games in Concert
Merlin Theatre, 7.30pm, £20
An award-winning, co-educational independent preparatory school and nursery for children aged 2 to 11 years.
We are a small school with a big ambition, situated in the beautiful village of Beckington, near Frome, on the Wiltshire – Somerset border. Our vision is to ignite a passion for learning and for life in every child. This happens every day through exciting, engaging lessons in small class sizes, and also through the wide range of enrichment activities available to the children.
Families are invited to our Open Morning on Wednesday 20th November to tour our wonderful school and speak to our knowledgeable teaching staff about the benefits of a Springmead education from Nursery through to Year 6.
Register your interest today by scanning the QR code:
