FREE GUIDE
WINTER 2013
W E LC O M E
Enjoy more... for less! Pick up a FREE Bath Visitor Card* at the Information Centre, and make great savings at over 45 participating businesses including: • 2 for 1 entry to museums and attractions • 2 for 1 cinema and comedy tickets • Up to 15% off at participating restaurants
*Free when you show ‘theSource’ at the Bath Visitor Information Centre Shop at time of purchasing all gifts and souvenirs worth over £10. Valid until 31 December 2013. (Normal card price £3.)
Highlights of the season — 02 Winter in Bath
Shopping Bath Christmas Market — 04
New traders, snow! and live entertainment alongside sparkly gifts and Christmassy treats
Gift Ideas — 06
Unique and hand-made gift ideas
Quadri — 08
Roger Corfield solves your Christmas shopping conundrums
Eat & Drink Bath does the Highland Fling — 10
Perfect gifts: handmade and locally sourced
Dougie Bonar’s three key ingredients: whisky, haggis and poetry
A Chef’s Christmas — 12
Chris Cleghorn talks hot puds and cook books
Culture — 16
Live like a local, events, festivals and merriment in Bath this season
Discover Winter Out — 22
Welcome to the second issue of theSource Bath, a new seasonal publication that aims to provide the inside track on the very best experiences that our rather special and truly individual city has to offer. As autumn turns into winter our aim remains the same – to be theSource of inspiration and information for you our visitors. We are passionate about introducing you to every beat of the pulse that we lucky locals thrive on, from charming hidden corners and secret histories all the way through to the extraordinary sights and experiences that have made this glorious city one of the most visited in the world. Thanks to its fascinating past and unrivalled beauty, Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage site (and who wouldn’t be rightly proud of such a status?). But it’s also a vibrant, modern, hub of creativity and invention that maintains a thriving programme of cultural, trivial and indulgent pursuits that are guaranteed to reward mind, body and soul. So, read on and let theSource guide your imagination, your inspiration and your feet! Eat, drink, listen, watch, shop and discover – but above all, enjoy. Your indispensable little booklet on all that’s great and good this winter in the World Heritage City. ON THE COVER
Shopping in Bath this Christmas – get the insider’s guide on page 04
Bracing winter walks and scrumptious pub grub
Sparkling Spas — 26
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Hot Baths and pampering perfection at Lucknam Park and Thermae Bath Spa
theSource Winter 2013 Publisher: Bath Tourism Plus (visitbath.co.uk) Design: So Design Consultants (so-design.co.uk)
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Journo in residence: Melissa Blease Advertising: emma_crofts@bathtourism.co.uk
Monday – Saturday: 9.30 – 17.30 all year round Sundays: 10.00 – 16.00 all year round Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day
The Bath Visitor Information Centre is located next to Bath Abbey on York Street
Disclaimer: The information provided in theSource is provided as a guide only and any views expressed are strictly ours. While we endeavour to ensure that the information in this publication is correct, no warranty, express or implied, is given as to its accuracy and Bath Tourism Plus does not accept any liability for error, damage or loss. © Bath Tourism Plus 2013
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W HAT ’ S O N
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When it comes to winter menus, it’s easy to think that the British food season is at a barren standstill. Far from it! Two rising stars of the Bath restaurant scene share their individual outlooks on what makes winter in the UK a foodie season to celebrate: we talk about festive feasting with Olive Tree Hob God Chris Cleghorn on page 12, while Dougie Bonar – The Kilted Chef himself – takes us on a mini Highland Fling to celebrate the joys of whisky and Burns’ Night on page 10.
Prepare to put all thoughts of chilly mornings, dreary days, dark nights and barren landscapes behind you as we introduce you to the wonderful winter season in Bath. Every year, the World Heritage City transforms into a magical winter wonderland as the Bath Christmas Market dominates the city centre from Thursday 28 November-Sunday 15 December. But there’s much more to the market than shopping opportunities – see our feature on pages 4 & 5 and let our insider knowledge take you to the very heart of one of Bath’s most magical annual institutions.
Bath is “without question one of the smartest, most interesting and consistently beautiful cities in England.” Ricky Gervais told us... So prepare to be charmed by the crescents – most famously the Royal Crescent, (and make sure you visit No. 1 on this street: the newly renovated museum of Georgian life) as well as the Circus, the Holburne Museum and Great Pulteney Street, the 2000 year old Roman Baths, the Pump Room, Pulteney Bridge (one of only four such bridges in the world), Bath Abbey and the many individual alleyways and pretty parks. As Ricky said, it’s “Gorgeous”! 2
There’s festive fun of a different kind on the Bath calendar this season too. The sumptuous banquet of musical sustenance that is the annual Bath Mozartfest celebrates all things Amadeus-related at various venues around the city from Friday 8-Saturday 16 November (bathmozartfest.org.uk), making room just a couple of weeks later for the 23rd annual Bath Film Festival to give film fans (and buffs!) their big screen close-up from Monday 25 November-Sunday 8 December (bathfilmfestival.org.uk). Still on the subject of front row seats, we take you on a journey behind the glorious facade of one of Bath’s most fascinating, characterful venues (Focus on the Forum, page 19) and take a whistlestop tour of Bath’s best Christmas shows, from the traditional to the offbeat, in our Listen and Watch section on page 17.
Michael Palin says: “It is a very walkable city… a real jewel in the country. Instead of walking along Oxford Street in London, wondering where to go, come up and do your shopping in Bath. I can’t go far without having to have a look in a shop.”
But before you let loose and party on Bath-style, there are shopping lists to consider. How are you going to fill all those Christmas stockings that are currently looking a little bit – well, downright unloved? Stress ye not! Roger Corfield, owner of long-standing, stylish shopping haven Quadri (Milsom Place) tells us all about his lovely, lively business and solves all our gift list conundrums on page 8, while our guide to Bath’s distinctly individual shopping ‘quarters’ makes sure you head in the right direction as you begin your search for present perfection (see map on pages 14 & 15). After all this fabulous frolicking around the town, we predict that you could well begin 2014 feeling a tad burnt out. Refresh, rejuvenate and replenish those flagging energy levels and put a spring in your step by treating yourself and/or a loved one (ah, have we possibly given you yet more gift inspiration here?) to a luxurious away day at two of the most luxurious spa hotspots in the south west – fast-forward to pages 26 & 27 and prepare to chillax. And if you need to take a break from the centrally-heated, indoor fug and breathe in a breath of fresh air right now, escape to the (nearby) countryside and take our guide to the best winter walks – and cosy country pubs! (see pages 22 & 23) Is there more? Oh yes there is! Our comprehensive 6-page events section starts on page 16. We’ve rounded up a collection of pastime suggestions as recommended by our panel of super-friendly locals
so you can live like one too, and scattered a collection of quirky Bath facts in and around our pages just to tickle your fancy as you discover the joys of life in our wonderful city. But as you go forth and make the most of winter in Bath, remember that the magnificent crescents, perfect parks and grand historical buildings are just some of the permanent fixtures and fittings that combine to create the unforgettable backdrop against which Bath rolls along. We urge you to explore it all – just don’t forget to take us with you. 3
BAT H C HRI S T M AS M ARK E T
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GIFTS BOXED OFF
Bath’s stunning vistas, grand architecture and picturesque lanes are breathtakingly beautiful at any time of the year. But for 18 days during the lead-up to Christmas, the area around the iconic Bath Abbey and the historic Roman Baths transforms into an extra-special winter wonderland as the annual Christmas Market (Thursday 28 November–Sunday 15 December) turns the centre of Bath into a unique shopping and entertainment paradise.
— B ATHATCHRI STMAS.CO.UK —
Make the most of the Market Mulled wine (or the traditional west country variant, mulled cider) is the quintessential Bath Christmas Market tipple – treat yourself to a cup of cheer as you browse the lively lanes Saddle up and take a ride back in time on the Victorian carousel situated just opposite the Pump Room entrance on Stall Street Top up those flagging energy levels on hearty homemade food from the lovely local food emporiums dotted all around the market Stroll up to Milsom Street and visit the chic shopping complex Milsom Place Join the throng and sing-a-long at the Shopper’s Carol Services at Bath Abbey Pick up a Market Programme from the Visitor Information Centre, Abbey Churchyard. 4
Bath Christmas Market brings a fascinating selection of traders together in a collection of over 150 traditional wooden chalets, each one flaunting an array of unique, unusual treasures from Christmas decorations and gifts to food, wine and sparkling jewellery, resulting in a very British take on the traditional German Christmas Market experience. It is the first and only market of its kind in the whole of the UK to have been awarded the ‘Quality Assured Visitor Attraction’ Rose Marque from national tourist board VisitEngland, an accolade that justifiably made market organisers Bath Tourism Plus, stallholders and locals alike very, very proud... and for market season 2013, the whole experience is set to get even better.
This year, over a third of the chalets will be managed by brand new traders, each of whom will add an extra dimension to the existing array. ‘Snowy Street’ (we mean that literally!) will provide a magical backdrop for local ‘microbusinesses’ who have welcomed the opportunity to trade as a pop up venture. Meanwhile, a programme of live entertainment from carol singing choirs to supremely talented contemporary musicians by way of all manner of thrillingly bold acrobats and performers ensure that, no matter how many times you visit, there’ll always be something new to grab your attention. But for those who like to go to market with a shopping list to hand, join us on a whistlestop tour of just a few of the shopping highlights you can expect to make the very most this year. Happy shopping, festive folk...
Beautifully, useful, handmade and bespoke: that’s a Rose Cottage box, each and every one decorated using a stunning range of fabulous papers in designs ranging from floral and Liberty-esque to feminine, exotic, funky, vintage and more – absolutely gorgeous! Stall 49, Main Square
POTTY ABOUT GAME
Highly qualified, experienced chefs Jemima Palmer-Tomkinson and Rory Baxter are absolutely potty about big flavours. Their Potted Game Company attests to their passion; a fabulous gourmet range of potted perfection including partridge, pheasant, trout, rabbit, quail, wild venison and boar, each matched with perfect flavour partnerships-in-a-jar. Stall 127, North Side Abbey
DON’T OVERLOOK YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS!
“Wacky treats for waggy tails” – everything you need to delight the pickiest of pooches, from Pupcakes (yes, really) and canine treats to doggie bling, birthday cakes and dog biscuits; play fetch at Four Legged Fancies. Stall 50, Main Square
JEWELLERY:
The gift that keeps on giving
Creation Jewellery represents the point where quality and originality meets traditional, global crafting skills from throughout the world, using materials sourced from (and manufactured by) Fairtrade suppliers. Browse a sparkling array of uniquely beautiful designs guaranteed to delight those special people in your life for many years to come. Stall 34, Main Square
WINE NOT?
Sample an exclusive, boutique selection of award-winning wines imported directly from acclaimed French vineyard Château de la Tuilerie then take your favourites away either as a single bottle or a beautifully packaged gift box selection. No time for wine? There’s mead, port, speciality liqueurs and all kinds of other very special tipples on the shelves too. Stall 26, Main Square Food stall: D Kingston Parade
Pop in at a Pop Up! Bath resident Gordon Bloor published his Bath-based novel ‘Go Swift and Far’ in November 2013. Read all about it (and meet the author himself) on Bath Street from Thursday 28 November–Tuesday 3 December. According to innovative local confectioner Julie Beale, if you can tie your shoelaces, you can make a gingerbread house! Put Julie’s claim to the test and find out for yourself – her highly original Gingerbread House Kits make a wonderful gift for big kids of all ages. But get your skates on! Julie is only in residence at the market from Thursday 28 November-Sunday 8 December: Bath Street A whole stall dedicated to the traditional Pickled Egg? Only in Bath! And only for one week from Monday 9–Sunday 15 December: Bath Street – don’t miss out on Purely Pickled Eggs!
MISSED THE MARKET? Don’t miss stalls which have shops:
THE MAKERY EMPORIUM 16 Northumberland Place BERTIE & JACK Brunton Street (stall) UP TO SEVEN 6 Pulteney Bridge BATH AQUA GLASS LTD 105-107 Walcot Street TASTING ROOM WINE MERCHANTS 6 Green Street NIBBLES CHEESE Stall 53, Guildhall Market PAXTON AND WHITFIELD 1 John Street CORAL QUAY FAIRTRADE 8/9 New Bond Street Place BLOOMSBURY 15 New Bond Street 5
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N E E D M O RE ID E A S? # A SK BATH
S HO P P I NG
BLOOMSBURY
Wanderlust zebra satchel Vintage style satchel featuring a brown upper, the Wanderlust print on a canvas body, with an adjustable shoulder strap.
F ROM TH E CHRISTM AS M ARKET
Stall 10, Main Square 28 November – 15 December
SPECKLED WOOD Decorations and gifts
ROBYN COETZEE
Unique wooden gifts and decorations. All designed, lasercut and hand-finished by us in our workshop near Bath.
Hand-crafted glass birds to display in your home or garden.
Stall 20, Main Square 28 November – 15 December
Glass birds
FAIRYGOODIES The fairy family
Stall 56, York Street 28 November – 15 December
Hand produced, ethically sourced fairy figurines – perfect as presents, Christmas tree ornaments or home decorations. Make your Christmas magic!
robyncoetzee.co.uk
PEARL RIVER TRADING Pearl jewellery
Pearl necklaces, earrings and bracelets using only the best quality pearls and semi-precious gemstones. Strung on silk with hallmarked gold and silver fittings.
GO SWIFT AND FAR Go Swift & Far – a novel of Bath
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Stall 13, Main Square 28 November – 15 December 01225 436208 fairygoodies.co.uk
01225 461049 bloomsburystore.com
01225 442 284 speckled-wood.com
TIMBER TREASURES Wooden gifts
An amazing range of lovingly created gifts in wood, at the heart of the UK’s most atmospheric Christmas shopping experience. Stall 45, Main Square 28 November – 15 December 01225 443747 timber-treasures.co.uk
SILKWOOD TRADERS
Lacquered wooden tablewares Stunning handmade lacquered wooden vases, plates, tea light holders, coaster & placemat sets and the famous balancing wine bottle holders.
Stall 7, Abbey Churchyard 28 November – 15 December
Stall 40, Main Square 28 November – 15 December
01761 419200 pearlrivertrading.co.uk
01736 600258 silkwoodtraders.com
SPENCERFIELD SPIRITS
Edinburgh Gin fruit infusions
A brand new book about a young boy growing up in wartime Bath, featuring 40 real Bath people as characters.
Popular variations of the Edinburgh Gin range include Raspberry, Elderflower and new limited edition Spiced Orange gin infusions
Stall 149, Bath Street 28 November – 3 December
Stall 138, Bath Street 28 November – 15 December
01225 475 800 douglaswestcott.com
01383 412144 spencerfieldspirit.com 7
— G IF T S GALORE —
QUADRI
can't wait to see people’s reaction!” says Roger. “But I’m looking forward to a buoyant Winter Season in general – there’s definitely an exciting sense of optimism in the air.” But if you’re feeling less than optimistic about that impending Christmas gift list that’s nagging away at the back of your mind, relax – Roger has shared his top suggestions for a lovely little something to delight even the trickiest of recipients. Is Mr Corfield the new Mr Claus? We think so!
Glittering, chic haven of stylishly beautiful treats, Quadri began life as an Art Gallery in the smart shopping centres of Sandton City and Hyde Park Corner, Johannesburg in the early 1980s. The shop's name translates from the Italian as '4 sides', and has today become shorthand in Bath for a one-stop shop for gifting gorgeousness. Here, theSource talks to Quadri owner Roger Corfield about shopping, Milsom Place and life in a city he doesn’t believe is as us,” says Roger. ”In many ways Bath traditionally British as many of us is not, to me, the quintessentially perceive it to be... English city that it is often portrayed as. With its mix of global tourists “I suppose you could summarise and smart locals, I find it redolent Quadri as a collection of merchandise of Verona, Salamanca or Evora. My chosen by someone who is wellfavourite restaurant is Cafe Martini qualified in the hope that there’s (George Street) and I love shopping a sufficient number of customers with the same taste!” says Roger. I’m looking forward to “Since Quadri opened as an art/gift gallery in Abbey Gate Street in 1986, a buoyant Winter Season we’ve diversified and expanded quite in general – there’s dramatically; we have, however, definitely an exciting sense remained absolutely faithful to our of optimism in the air. original vision of offering customers very well designed quality products at a fair price.” in the Guildhall Market – I buy all my holiday-reading paperbacks Such a USP requires a suitable at the second hand bookstall, and trading environment – which is why find the Guildhall Delicatessen Quadri is now so at home in Milsom quite irresistible”. So what is Roger Place. “With its manageable size, looking forward to about winter in pleasant atmosphere, fascinating the city he loves so much? “We’ve architecture and unique mix of sourced many exciting lines to the diverse restaurants and fashionable new season, especially in our new shops, Milsom Place is perfect for Designed For Children section – I Quadri 15/16 Milsom Place, Milsom Street, Bath BA1 1BZ 01225 723034, quadri.co.uk 8
Quadri solves your Christmas shopping conundrums For a Wonderful Woman: unique, hand-crafted silver earrings made by local designer Jane Watling – no two pairs are exactly the same! (£98.00) For a Marvellous Man: stylish, durable, gorgeous Arne Jacobsen watch – this classic will never go out of date (£375) For Keen Cooks: ‘Supoons’ – the ultimate multi-functional, flexible kitchen accessory (£8.95) For a Yummy Mummy: a beautiful bracelet for both special occasion and everyday wear (£30.00) For a Funky Father: a stylish alternative to a dull, plain case make sure dad never loses sight of his glasses (£29.95) For that Tricky Teenager: ‘James the Bookend’ ensures teens actually want to keep their textbooks tidy! (£16)
Find it on the App (see back cover)
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AT YOUR PLACE
A unique collection of gifts, homewares, flavours and fashions for the festive season SHOPPING Anenome Cath Kidston Chanii B Shoes Deli@Jamie’s Fig and Pinker
Hobbs KFraser Textiles Magpie & Bear Little Lab Phase Eight Prey Renaissance
Quadri and Alessi Seven Boot Lane Milsom Eye Co. Traffic People True Grace Vom Fass
Entrances on Milsom Street and Broad Street www.milsomplace.co.uk
FOOD Carluccio’s Côte Brasserie Jamie’s Italian Parisien YO! Sushi
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— OCH AY E THE NOO! —
BATH DOES THE HIGHLAND FLING
3rd to 21st December 2013 Festive lunch/dinner menus from £17.55 / £23.95
31st December 2013 Hogmanay five course dinner menu £75, including a glass of prosecco and a dram whisky for toast with the Bell.
01225 466688
Is it possible to describe your style of cooking in just half a dozen words? Unpretentious, contemporary, sensational, modern British cuisine. Chef Dougie Bonar trained at some of the UK’s most prestigious hotels (including The Savoy, London and The Caledonian, Edinburgh). His great grandmother was the pastry cook for the Queen Mother at Glamis Castle Nr Dundee; following in the family footsteps, Dougie has had the pleasure of cooking for Princess Anne twice. Fortunately for Bathonians, Dougie took to the hob at The Kilted Chef, Kingsmead Square early in 2013. Here, Dougie talks to theSource about festive flavours – and a very special date for your diary. So, Dougie – tell us why you love to cook! Cooking has always been an integral, deep-seated element of my personality. Today, I’m most happy when working in a vibrant kitchen cooking for a restaurant full of guests.
Sorry to stereotype, but you’re Scottish – we’re thinking you might be a whisky fan? Yes, indeed I am – my very favourite tipple is rich, smooth Talisker, but for obvious reasons I avoid taking a nip while I’m in the kitchen! A lot of people don’t realise that whisky can be enjoyed with food too; it’s perfect with a bowl of haggis or a nice meaty fish such as monkfish.
As I believe you can’t have too much of a good thing, we’re doing Burns’ Night twice this year (Friday 24 and Saturday 25 January). Tell us about Burns’ Night, one of the most important dates on the Scottish calendar. Burns’ Night is very, very important to me – I see it as a second
The Kilted Chef 7a Kingsmead Square, Bath BA1 2AB 01225 466688, kiltedchefbath.co.uk 10
Hogmanay! It’s all about celebrating the life and poetry of Robert Burns, who was a really amazing man. Burns’ Night is a big family tradition in Scotland – I have many fond memories of celebrations down through the years. So what are your Burns’ Night plans for The Kilted Chef? As I believe you can’t have too much of a good thing, we’re doing Burns’ Night twice this year (Friday 24 and Saturday 25 January). Expect a spectacular 4-course Scottish supper with whisky and coffee plus lots of traditional entertainment for £60 – you don’t have to wear a kilt, but I’ll personally raise my glass to anybody who does! What aspects of life in Bath do you enjoy the most? Bath is very similar to Edinburgh in architecture and ambience, but on a smaller scale. It’s a very walkable city and looks stunning whatever the season – I always take a stroll around the town between lunch and dinner service, and find myself discovering a brand new aspect to enjoy every day. Find it on the App (see back cover)
7a Kingsmead Square, Bath BA1 2AB reservations@thekiltedchef.com www.thekiltedchef.com
THE CORK
Pub, bar, and terrace The Cork offers Bath a unique style venue with a classic style pub on one floor, contemporary bar on the other with a great heated outside terrace. This winter they’re serving up some yummy home cooked food plus Christmas Party Menu options: Three Courses for just £19.95 or a choice of three buffet options from £8.95 per head. Naturally we also cater for just drinks parties too! Home cooked British cuisine with an à la carte menu and daily specials. There’s also an option of set menu or buffet to suit all your needs for booking larger groups. Teas & coffees, Free WIFI, live sport, open late on weekends, Sunday fun pub quiz. Your perfect venue fo all year round! thecork.co.uk Food served 12 – 9.30pm
New Years Eve Party at The Cork FREE ENTRY Open until 3am Live music and DJs
Find it on the App (see back cover) 11
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— I N TE RVI EW —
The Olive Tree Restaurant, Russel Street, Bath, BA1 2QF. Tel: (01225) 447928
A CHEF’S CHRISTMAS
olivetreebath.co.uk
“Tipped for a Michelin Star” Head Chef Chris Cleghorn took to the hob at the acclaimed Olive Tree restaurant at the Queensberry Hotel in Spring 2013. Here, we catch up with him over a glass of mulled wine (what else?) to discuss festive fun, chef style! As a chef, are you obliged to cook for family and friends over the Christmas break – or do they allow you a couple of days off? My fiancée and family are always happy to cook for me over Christmas until I can’t stay out of the kitchen anymore and have to interfere. Despite my best intentions, I always end up doing at least half the cooking – I just can’t help myself! Maybe this year I’ll force myself to go for a long walk while they cook...
I’m usually working over Christmas, but I’ll make sure I find the time to spend at least one memorable day at home with my family over the holiday period, relaxing and enjoying a typical British Christmas. What elements constitute the perfect Christmas feast? It’s rather controversial for a chef to admit, but I actually really enjoy the traditional turkey and all the trimmings – particularly if I don’t have to cook it! I’m usually working over Christmas, but I’ll make sure I find the time to spend at least one memorable day at home with my family over the holiday period, relaxing and enjoying a typical British Christmas.
Do you have any recommendations for a gift for the food lover in our lives? It would have to be a really good cook book. It’s hard to choose just one chef, so I’d go for a book from the Relish series: there’s a new South West version out this winter and it includes recipes from lots of chefs that I really respect. It’s also beautifully put together with fabulous photography – a perfect gift! What’s special about Bath at Christmas time? This will be my first Christmas in Bath so I’ll have to tell you next year! I’m looking forward to trawling the Christmas Market for foodie goodies though, and as Bath is a stunning city I’m sure it’s going to look magical over the festive season.
Veal
Bailbrook House Hotel
Winter is upon us! What locally sourced produce represents the best of the season? I rely heavily on local suppliers like Eades Greengrocers for fresh, quality seasonal produce. I also adore game, particularly venison, partridge and pheasant – the rich flavours of British autumn/winter on a plate!
What dish, for you, helps make the long, dark nights more bearable? I believe there’s nothing more comforting than a hot pudding! Although a stodgy steamed pud with custard has its place, I’ve created a more sophisticated, grown up version that combines flavours that epitomise this time of year: Earl Grey soufflé with poached pear and spiced pear ice cream – heaven! And guaranteed to cheer you up on a cold winters evening.
Tom Chesshyre, The Times, July 2013
ENJOY SUNDAY LUNCH IN STYLE… Following a very stylish £10 million restoration, Bailbrook House Hotel is now open for you to experience opulent lounges, the new Cloisters fine dining restaurant and stunning bedrooms. Enjoy Sunday lunch in our beautiful Cloisters restaurant. Three-course table d’hôte menu - £27.95 per person. Please call 01225 855100 to make a reservation. Eveleigh Avenue, London Road West, Bath BA1 7JD bailbrookhouse.co.uk
The Olive Tree Russel Street, Bath BA1 2QF 01225 447928, thequeensberry.co.uk 12
Find it on the App (see back cover)
CLOISTE S R E S TA U R A N T
C H R I STM A S SH OP P I N G
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Milsom Place
At the heart of fashionable Bath discover Milsom Place, off Milsom Street, where Jamie Oliver meets Cath Kidston. Here you will find a great mix of cool cafés, restaurants, top brands and independents – and unusual gifts, jewellery and accessories, homewares and candles, plus foodie treats at Deli @ Jamie’s and Carluccio’s.
No. 1 Royal Crescent
Bath on Ice
Bath on Ice, Bath’s festive ice rink, opens on 22 November until 5 January. It is located in Royal Victoria Park in the centre of Bath. The rink and rink side café are open daily from 10am until 9pm. Prices start from £7 pp including skate hire. For further details and to book online visit bathonice.com
From 25 Nov No.1 Royal Crescent will be dressed for a Georgian Christmas with greenery, ribbons, sweets, gold-painted pastries, exotic fruits and spices plus sugar sculptures and special pies! Open daily 10.30am – 5.30pm except Mondays (12noon – 5.30pm). Free demos and workshops 11am – 4.30pm on Sat 30 Nov! Or make your own Christmas Wreath workshop Sun 1 Dec 2.30 – 4.30pm (Tickets £25 including wreath). Step into a Christmas Past! No1royalcrescent.org.uk
milsomplace.co.uk
Bath Guildhall Christmas Market
Look out for Santa who will direct you to Bath’s famous indoor market and centrally heated Christmas marquees stacked with festive goodies. Entrance through the arch next to Browns, opposite Bath Abbey. Mulled wine, local beer and live music in beer tent throughout the day! bathguildhallmarket.co.uk
Green Park Station
Set in an old railway station under a stunning iron and glass vaulted roof there are a selection of unique independent shops, a café and restaurant. Come down on Friday night to experience Bath Street Feast with quality local street food. At the weekend our Christmas markets sell local produce, crafts and antiques.
Bath Christmas Market – find out more on pages 4-7
greenparkstation.co.uk
— OU R GI FT TO YOU —
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING IN BATH B ATHATCHRI STMAS.CO.UK Share your gift inspiration and ask for ideas on #askbath 14
Illustrated Map by Kate Chidley (stall 113), katechidley.com 15
W H AT’ S ON
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T H I S W I N TER
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EAT & DRINK
T HI S W I NT ER
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LISTEN & WATCH HAPPY NEW YEAR, BATH-STYLE
As dear old 2013 prepares to be consigned to history, restaurants, bars, hotels, venues and public spaces across Bath are set to guarantee good times for all. As you flick through the pages of our winter issue, you’ll come across all manner of inspirations, ideas and downright unmissable NYE celebrations to suit you, whether you’re after an intimate dinner or a full-on party – but be warned: tickets for such events sell out quickly, so book now to make sure you don’t miss out. December at the Pump Room – the elegant complex that’s enjoyed prime position at the epicentre of Bath society life for centuries – is all BURNS, BABY, about glitz, sparkle and glamorous festive fun, courtesy of an exciting, BURNS! enticing range of sparkling drinks Bath may be almost 300 miles away receptions, sumptuous dinners from the tiny Scottish town of Ayr, and opportunities to ‘trip the light birthplace of acclaimed poet and Enjoy a uniquely glamorous side fantastic’, rounded off with an lyricist Robert Burns (1759-1796), order of entertainment with your extra special New Year’s Eve Gala but Bathonians don’t have to travel far-flung, exotic feast at Koh Thai on December 31 (romanbaths. far to celebrate Burns’ Night – the Tapas (Broad Street, BA1 5LP) co.uk). Revellers will be having traditional annual celebration of the courtesy of live performances great man’s life. The party takes from silky-voiced songstress Katie a ball – literally! – at the equally iconic Assembly Rooms too, where place around the world on and Francesca every Tuesday evening. a spectacular New Year’s Eve around January 25, but two of the package includes a drinks reception, biggest and best are taking place a 3-course feast, live music, a fun in Bath. Let legendary Bath quizmaster casino, a cocktail bar and a glass of Daniel (“Fitz”) FitzHenry put your Kicking off the Highland-themed knowledge of sport, current affairs, fizz at midnight – email boxoffice@ fling, a celebration of all things history, geography and more to the bathfestivals.org.uk for ticketing North of the Border will be hosted test at The Cork Quiz every Sunday information. Elsewhere, consider chic, gourmet celebrations at the by the Allium Brasserie ArtBar’s evening from 8pm – great vibe, Allium Brasserie (or a chilled out very own masterful mixologist (and great prizes up for grabs! New Year’s Day Jazz Lunch the whisky connoisseur) Andrew Fisher (Westgate Buildings, Westgate day after – abbeyhotelbath.co.uk/ at a special Burns’ Night Supper and Street, BA1 1EB) allium-brasserie), a 1920s-themed Whisky Masterclass on Thursday black tie gala at the Bath Priory 23 January (abbeyhotelbath.co.uk/ allium-brasserie). Next up, Dougie Shop, browse and taste the produce (thebathpriory.co.uk), the Bonar – The Kilted Chef himself at Bath Farmer’s Market – the one hip’n’happening Vintage New Year’s (kiltedchefbath.co.uk) – will be that kickstarted the national Farmers’ Eve Party at the hip’n’happening hosting not one but two opportunities Market movement – every Saturday Circo Bar (circobar.co.uk) or live to raise a glass to Rabbie on Friday morning at Green Park Station, Green music and DJs all the way through until 3am at The Cork (thecork. 24 and Saturday 25 January (see Park Road, BA1 1JB. co.uk). Ding dong indeed! also page 10). Happy Birthday Mr. Burns!
Live Like a Local
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The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe The Forum, St James’s Parade 5–8 December This Winter, The Forum will be transformed into Narnia! 0844 888 9991 bathforum.co.uk
SHOWTIME AT SNOWTIME
There’s no shortage of spectacular Christmas shows in Bath this year, all offering broad appeal to all ages and all tastes, whether traditional or offbeat. First stop, The Forum: for a sneak preview of their thrilling winter programme and a sneak peek inside this fascinating historic building itself, see page 17. But Christmas season just wouldn’t be the same without the Great British Tradition that is the pantomime. Are you going? Oh yes you are! Those who like their pantos properly trad will love this year’s Theatre Royal production of Peter Pan: the magical tale of the boy who – in the nicest possible way – never grew up, set to bring flying (of course!), stunning CGI special effects and all the traditional ingredients that makes Peter’s tale so enduringly popular to the stage from Thursday 12 December-Sunday 12 January (theatreroyal.org.uk). Meanwhile, just around the corner... Tove Jansson’s Moomin stories are loved all over the world, crossing barriers of language, age and culture – and, for the first time ever, those captivating, curious creatures are coming to the UK stage at the egg theatre from 6 DecemberSunday 12 January. Elsewhere, the Rondo Theatre presents a uniquely quirky, alternative take on yuletide-centric comedy in the form of Christmas.Time. on Friday 6 December, followed by a familyfriendly, thoroughly enchanting, exclusive adaptation of Belgian Playwright Maurice Maeterlinck’s Nobel Prize winning play The Bluebird on selected dates from Thursday 12-Saturday 21 December (rondotheatre.co.uk).
The Magic of Motown The Forum, St James's Parade 14 December Live on stage – the music of the Temptations, Diana Ross and The Supremes, Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye, Lionel Richie and scores more. The best live Motown tribute concert show out there. 0844 888 9991 bathforum.co.uk And, as we’d expect from one of Bath’s most eclectic entertainment hotspots, Komedia will be welcoming acclaimed Elvis Presley impersonator Ivor Potter (“Suspiciously Elvis”), the UK’s premier comedy improv group (“The Noise Next Door Comedy Lock-In”), festive burlesque form the Ministry of High Tease and merriment aplenty at the Krater Christmas Cracker special comedy nights to their Westgate Street pleasuredome on various dates throughout a fun-fuelled December programme (komedia.co.uk/bath/xmas).
Bath Mozart Festival Various locations 8–16 November The Mozartfest celebrates the maestro's music, and that of his contemporaries. bathmozartfest.org.uk Handel Messiah in Bath Abbey Bath Abbey Fri 6, Sat 7 December, 7.30pm Bath Choral Society celebrated annual concert including Handel’s Messiah. bathboxoffice.org.uk Carols by Candlelight Pump Room 18, 19 and 20 December The City of Bath Bach Choir will bring the magic of Christmas alive with three consecutive nights of carols and Christmas music. bathbachchoir.org.uk
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THE ‘OTHER’ FESTIVE SEASON
Bath’s Artisan Quarter, Walcot Street, is home to an eclectic mix of independent shops and cafés, and also the ‘Faces of Walcot Street’ – an astonishing array of mythical stone-carved faces.
Bath is increasingly becoming recognised across the UK as Festival City – and November fully upholds that reputation with not one but two festival feasts.
Live Like a Local Put your thinking cap on and visit the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution (Queens Square, BA1 2HN), which hosts a culturally eclectic programme of debates, exhibitions and guest speakers in gracious Georgian surroundings. Hot ticket: The Victor Suchar Christmas Lecture – Sense and Nonsense: Reflections on Human Understanding, Tuesday 10 December. Catch up on all the Big Screen, international sporting action at Bath’s best sports pubs: The Trinity (James Street West, BA1 2DA), the Assembly Inn (Alfred Street, BA1 2QU) and the Royal Oak (Summerlays Place, BA2 4HN) all represent a sport lover’s paradise...and if your favourite fixture coincides with the spiffing Sunday roasts served at these much-loved pubs, luck is on your team’s side indeed!
RAISE THE ROOF!
Bath is set to go Christmas carol crazy in December, with a selection of Family and Shopper’s Carol Services at Bath Abbey at the epicentre of the rousing chorus. These atmospheric, festive bouts of communal celebration take place on selected dates from the end of November and continue throughout December, interspersed with Advent Services and Bath Choral Society’s special performances of Handel’s Messiah – visit bathabbey.org for full programme details.
Celebrating almost seven decades of maintaining a much-loved tradition, the City of Bath Bach Choir present three consecutive nights of carols and Christmas music in the evocative surroundings of the candlelit Pump Room from Wednesday 18–Friday 20 December. Prepare to be dazzled by a range Expect a mixture of carols from of uniquely diverse cabaret traditional to modern, serious to extravaganzas at the Mission Theatre light-hearted – and expect audience (Corn Street, BA1 1UF), the Chapel participation to be very much Arts Centre (Lower Borough Walls, encouraged! (romanbaths.co.uk) BA1 1QR) and Komedia (Westgate Street, BA1 1EP), which all regularly host all manner of eclectic merriment from burlesque spectaculars to comedy nights by way of evocative crooners recalling days-gone-by and impromptu poetry recitals. 18
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FOCUS ON THE FORUM
The 23rd annual Bath Film Festival brings glamour, controversy and all manner of thought-provoking debate to the World Heritage City from Monday 25 November-Sunday 8 December. Alongside a bumper programme of fantastic films (including premiere and exclusive screenings), the Film Festival also promotes emerging talent, hosts industry workshops and an awards scheme (in association with IMDb) and takes Community Cinema into rural areas, care homes and school – visit bathfilmfestival.org.uk for further information. Also celebrating its 23rd year in 2013, the Bath Mozartfest (Friday 8-Saturday 16 November; bathmozartfest.org.uk) represents a sumptuous paean to charismatic, enduringly popular 18th century composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the musical riches bestowed upon us by the Classical and Romantic periods. Highlights of this year’s programme include a concert by the world-renowned Takács Quartet to celebrate the opening weekend and music by Tallis, Byrd and Britten sung by the awardwinning Cardinall’s Musick in the evocative surroundings of St Mary’s Church, Bathwick later on in their richly-textured calendar of events.
The World Heritage City is an indisputable world class leader in the field of historical architecture. But even the longest-established residents are aware that, away from the iconic heritage trail, there’s always a new old treasure to discover – and The Forum is one such hidden gem. Having opened its doors to the public as a cinema in 1934, this remarkable venue celebrates its 80th birthday in May 2014. The cinema remained in operation until 1969 and the building has since accommodated a bingo hall and a dance school before Bath City Church took the building over in 1989. “Many people don’t realise that The Forum is Bath’s biggest venue and the third largest seated auditorium in the south west of England,” says Daniel Hogston, who is justifiably proud of managing this unique venture. But for many years, the building was overlooked, unloved
and allowed to slip into a state of careworn disarray. “When Bath City Church took The Forum over, it had been allowed to crumble into a sorry state of disrepair,” says Dan. “Thankfully, the church restored it to its former glory and recently set up a company called Bath Forum Ltd to manage the venue, deliver a new
flourishes all subtly vying for your attention. In the elegant auditorium, the iconic green cinema seats offer a spacious, luxurious audience experience – and when better time to indulge your senses in such opulent surroundings than winter? This season, The Forum will host a grand adventure involving The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (Thursday 5–Sunday 8 December), “Many people don’t realise boogie on down to the Magic of Motown (Saturday 14 December) that The Forum is Bath’s biggest venue and the third and fly high with Bath Philharmonia when they bring Howard Blake’s largest seated auditorium in Snowman alive to the sound of music the south west of England” on Monday 23 December. Meanwhile, touring pop-up restaurant Chateau Marmot will bring a 5-star dining programme of events and look at experience to the Forum Ballroom refurbishment as an ongoing project”. on Thursday 12 and Friday 13 Today, The Forum represents a true December and the London Gala reflection of typical Art Deco-era Orchestra will be recreating New splendour including lacquered wood Year’s Eve in Vienna as 2013 draws fixtures and fittings and gold-leafed to a close. The Forum: it’s fabulous.
The Forum 1a Forum Buildings, St James’s Parade, Bath BA1 1UG Box Office 0844 888 9991, bathforum.co.uk
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Market & Shops Green Park Station Market every Saturday, shops open all week Regular Markets including the Bath Farmer’s Market. Local produce, crafts, antiques and more. Plus unique Independent shops, café and a restaurant open all week. @GPS_Bath
Say cheers to the merry band of locals and pub regulars (537 of them in total!) who turned beloved Bath institution The Bell Inn (Walcot Street, BA1 5BW) into a communityowned venture in July 2013. Free live jazz three times a week, open mic night every Thursday, board games group every other Tuesday.
TWINKLE, TWINKLE!
BathVA Undercover Vintage & Antiques Market Green Park Station First & Last Sunday of the month plus Christmas Market 12 Dec For a heritage style fix, visit the BathVA for a great day out in the heart of the city. vintageandantiques.co.uk @BathVA
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Live Like a Local
Widcombe Christmas Fair St Matthew’s Church Sat 23 November 40 stalls including ceramics, jewellery, textiles, cards, Christmas decorations, pictures and more; unique gifts direct from the maker. widcombecraftfair.com Bath Film Festival Various locations 25 November–8 December An eclectic mix of specialist films, features, documentaries, shorts, previews and retrospective films. bathfilmfestival.org.uk
Bath is set to put the dark winter nights behind us for the festive season when the city’s dazzling Christmas lights are officially switched on by legendary baking queen (and, of course, original Bathonian) Mary Berry at a sparkling ceremony on Tuesday 12 November, casting a new light on the World Heritage City across the whole the season. Mary predicts that, as soon as she flicks the switch, “Milsom Street will look like the finest street in the country” – and we at theSource heartily second that emotion! But there’s yet more bling to shake up our senses as Christmas gets a grip. Following the resounding success of artist and light designer Bruce Munro’s 2011 ‘Field of Light’ installation and Martin Richman and Charlie Kerr’s ‘Circuit: A Light Labyrinth’ last year, the Holburne Museum turns their garden into an inspirational, interactive winter wonderland again this winter season (Wednesday 4 December–Sunday 5 January) courtesy of lighting designer Patrick Woodroffe’s breathtakingly beautiful ‘Light to Light’ installation. Patrick has
Christmas Lights Switch On Bath city centre & Milsom Street Tues 12 November, 5.30pm Come and watch the Queen of baking Mary Berry as she transforms Bath into a festive wonderland. bathatchristmas.co.uk produced lighting designs for an extraordinary collection of people including ABBA, Lady Gaga, Take That, The Rolling Stones, The Three Tenors and the London Symphony Orchestra as well as special events including the opening and closing ceremonies of the London Olympic and Paralympic Games. This winter, the Holburne will host a spectacular display of LED lights of varying brightness and colour to create a rich and layered bed of light that ripples and dances to a soundtrack compiled and created by English composer Matt Clifford. Don’t miss it! (holburne.org).
To celebrate both the opening of Light to Light and the first night of Bath Christmas Market (see pages 4–5), the Holburne Lantern Procession (Thursday 28 November) will bring together a throng of lantern-bearing local children to form a parade from the museum all the way to Abbey Square via the stunning backdrop of Great Pulteney Street and the iconic Pulteney Bridge.
The art of playing Skittles pre-dates the rather brasher pastime Ten Pin Bowling by centuries – and the Devonshire Arms (Wellsway, BA2 4RY) boasts one of the oldest traditional Skittle Alleys in the south west. Test your skittling skill (or even challenge a “Devvie” regular to a round of equally historic Bar Billiards) for free on any weekday evening. Get your skates on, let your inner Torville and Dean guide you and experience Bath on Ice: a full-sized ice rink in the glorious surroundings of Victoria Park from Friday 22 November–Sunday 5 January. For those who prefer a rinkside seat, there’s a café and plenty of spectator eats too – but come on, who can resist the roaring allure of the blades? Holburne Lantern Procession Procession sets off at 5pm from Holburne Museum Thurs 28 November, 4.30pm Celebrate light at the darkest time of the year with the annual lantern procession. holburne.org/lantern-procession
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D I SC OV E R
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MAKE TIME FOR TYNTESFIELD
WINTER OUT
Winter: the very word alone is enough to make you want grab a fleecy blanket, snuggle down on the nearest squidgy sofa and hibernate until the snowdrops start to break through the frosty earth. But however tempting the opt-out option may be, you’d be missing out on one of the most beautiful British seasons of all. At this time of year, the dramatic landscapes that dominate the great outdoors offer an uplifting winter wonderland to explore... made all the more tempting by the prospect of a visit to a cosy pub at the end of your bracing walk. If you ask nicely, the landlord may even offer you use of a fleecy blanket to drape around yourself as you snuggle down on his sofa...
Fans of the Victorian Gothic Revival era will swoon at their very first glimpse of Tyntesfield, a glorious 19th century mansion complete with spiralling turrets, ornate stone carvings, an orangery, an aviary and a walled garden, all surrounded by acres of parkland, around 16 miles/25km from Bath. Tyntesfield was built by fertiliser magnate (sorry to bring you back down to earth!) William Gibbs in 1830, and is today highly regarded as one of the most spectacular National Trust houses in the UK; visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ tyntesfield for the full lowdown including opening times. But where to eat once you’ve done all that swooning? Look no further than the Battleaxes at nearby Wraxall (flatcappers.co.uk/the-battleaxes): a funky, quirky, no-fuss contemporary inn specialising in proper, no-nonsense modern pub grub and an array of well-kept real ales.
MAGNIFICENT MIDFORD
GET FRESH AT FRESHFORD
Picture perfect, super-pretty Freshford (around 5 miles/8km south east of Bath) is easily accessible to walkers who meander alongside the Avon or Frome rivers or cyclists who make the most of access to the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath, all of whom are richly rewarded for their efforts by finding themselves at the heart of a village that looks like a backdrop for a scene in a Beatrix Potter story. Meanwhile, the supremely welcoming Inn at Freshford (theinnatfreshford.co.uk) acts as a starting/finishing point for the Two Valleys walk: a circular, 3.5 mile/5km route linking Freshford and the equally picturesque Avoncliff taking in all the wonders that the luscious landscape has to offer along the way. As for sustenance after all that walking: the locals here are so proud of the Two Valleys walk that the landlord named a pie in its honour!
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The picturesque village of Midford (just 3 miles/5km south east of Bath) lies at the epicentre of a paradisiacal pastoral landscape overlooked by Midford Castle, a grand 18th century Folly built in 1775 by Henry Disney Roebuck and most recently owned by A-list actor Nicolas Cage. Midford is also one of the starting/finishing points for the Sustrans (sustainable transport) cycle route that starts/finishes in Bath and takes cyclists (or walkers, if you’re not too scared of the dark!) along the ancient, characterful Two Tunnels Greenway route, a project that refurbished and restored the old Devonshire and Combe Down railway tunnels to create a uniquely fascinating journey for all – visit twotunnels.org.uk/directions.html for information and directions. And might there be an inn at which to rest up once you’ve explored Midford? Ah, yes indeed – the lovely Hope and Anchor: hopeandanchormidford.co.uk
TOURS Discover Stonehenge, Avebury, Lacock and the stunning surrounding countryside from just £17.50. Book at the Visitor Information Centre (Abbey Churchyard), 0844 847 5256.
PERFECT PRISTON
At first consideration, Priston (4 miles/6km south west of Bath) may appear to appeal only to ancient history buffs, boasting a mill that dates back to AD931, several prehistoric megaliths and the site of a Roman villa established around AD100 all within one tiny civil parish that also encompasses the equally historic Hamlet of Wilmington, 320 acres of which is owned by the Duchy of Cornwall. But you don’t have to look back in order to look forward to a day out here. After you’ve taken in all those ancient sites and explored the fascinating walking routes, a spot of relaxing downtime at the warm and welcoming Ring O’Bells (priston.org.uk/ringobells.htm) will bring you back up-to-date in fine style. Heck, there’s even a proper Skittle Alley to make the most of after you’ve over-indulged on a perfect pud! 23
By day or by night, Come rain or shine… ...Relax in Bath’s natural thermal Spa Open daily from 09.00 – 21.30 0844 888 0844 www.ThermaeBathSpa.com
CHRISTMAS AT THE BRASSERIE
Small Group Day Tours from Bath
Special 3 course festive menu available for lunch and dinner - £29 per person. For reservations please call The Brasserie on 01225 740577 Menu available from 1st December to lunch on the 31st December 2013. (Excluding Christmas Day & Boxing Day) Looking for the perfect gift? Browse through our extensive selection of luxury gift ideas and experiences, from Cookery School Courses to Spa Days available to buy online. www.lucknampark.co.uk Colerne, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 8AZ
NOW OPEN
We visit...
Stonehenge Avebury Stone circles Lacock National Trust village The Cotswold village of Castle Combe
Tel 07990 505970 www.madmaxtours.co.uk
*
STORES NATIONWIDE | COTSWOLDOUTDOOR.COM
D I SC OV E R
theSource
Forget detox. It’s time for some
METOX! Find your serenity and enjoy some me time this January with luxury accommodation plus a tranquil four hours of spa indulgence at Thermae Bath Spa from just £134 per couple. (On sale from mid-November)
Multiple centuries ago, Bath was originally built around the natural, mineral-rich springs that continue to flow today beneath the city’s historical Roman remains and elegant Georgian facades – yes indeed, you’re at the epicentre of the UK’s most sparkling, spa-centric city. And that continually-flowing, miraculous element at the heart of the matter has continuously been brought bang up-to-date as the years have flowed by, combining original history with contemporary glamour to stunning effect.
We can’t think of a better Christmas gift (or a reason to spoil yourself with a me-time treat to kick start your own New Year resolutions!) than a luxurious, pampering treatment at a spa hotspot. Whether you choose to remain within the boundaries of the city itself or escape to the (nearby) countryside, we know exactly where you need to go.
LUSCIOUS LUCKNAM PARK Chic & contemporary
The award-winning Lucknam Park Hotel – set in 500 acres of listed parkland just 6 miles/9km away from Bath – is home to a stylishly seductive spa that represents a little corner of luxurious heaven on earth. Located within a manicured walled garden, this chic, contemporary complex offers extensive facilities including a 20m heated indoor pool,
visitbath.co.uk/metox
indoor-outdoor hydrotherapy pool, outdoor salt-water plunge pool, “experience showers”, thermal cabins and a superbly equipped fitness suite. In addition to all this, the spa’s dedicated Wellbeing House opened in August 2013, offering a purpose-built yoga and pilates studio, dry floatation, Haslauer reflective sunlight therapy, burnout programmes and specialist residential clinics in sleep therapy and nutrition alongside yoga retreats led by visiting specialists. Wellbeing Spa Days offer a higher level of quiet relaxation and the benefits of the super restorative treatments offered within the facility. For the winter months in particular, Haslauer Sunlight Therapy, recreating the feeling of a warm summer day and replicating the change of light from sunrise to sunset, will prove very popular while both the De Stress Botanical Herbal Back Therapy (£95) and the Burnout Therapy (£145) both guarantee to deliver exactly what their descriptions suggest: instant bliss!
Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa Colerne, Wiltshire SN14 8AZ 01225 742777, lucknampark.co.uk 26
Find it on the App (see back cover)
THERMAE BATH SPA The ultimate urban oasis
A rooftop pool, various steam rooms, an amazingly extensive treatment menu, a chic restaurant and the legendary Hot Baths. All at the heart of the World Heritage City: welcome to the Thermae Bath Spa, the rejuvenation zone that you’ll never want to leave – and the only place in Britain where you can bathe in natural thermal water. Spa sessions at Thermae cost £26 for 2 hours or £36 for 4 hours, don’t need to be booked in advance and include access to the Minerva Bath with its lazy river current and whirlpool, rooftop pool and the aroma steam rooms. Meanwhile, a range of tempting treatments and packages offer incredible value for money and include lunch or supper at the stylish Springs Restaurant. We particularly love the stress-relieving Thermae Spa signature Watsu treatment (float in natural thermal Thermae Bath Spa The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath Street, Bath BA1 1SJ | 01225 331234, thermaebathspa.com
waters and experience ‘the gentlest deep massage ever created’, £64), and the ‘Time for Two’ package (£189 per couple), while old and new romantics alike couldn’t fail to be entranced by the Twilight Package: take a 3-hour meander around the complex, relax in the rooftop pool and take in the beautiful views while the sun goes down over Bath bathing the historic buildings in rich, golden hues and enjoy a meal and a drink at Springs for just £42. In need of a quick fix? Pop into the Cross Bath – a stand-alone facility with its own open-air thermal bath, now recognised as an official “sacred site” – and experience instant nirvana in an hour and a half (£16). But however you choose to make the most of your chill out time here, satisfaction (and an unforgettable experience) is guaranteed for all. Find it on the App (see back cover)
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theSource
So, you’ve reached the end of the Winter edition of theSource – we hope you had as much fun exploring our beautiful city as we had telling you how to make the very most of it! If you haven’t had the time to fit everything in, there’s nothing for it: you’ll have to come back and visit us again – and when you do, we’ll be waiting for you.
KEEP IN TOUCH Join our mailing list to receive information, news, competitions and special offers to help you plan your next visit. Sign up at visitbath.co.uk
Next issue: Spring into Bath! New season, new look, new outlook: update your wardrobe, make yourself over and generally get chic as we focus on spring styles and Bath’s own fashion week: Bath in Fashion The full lowdown on getting loved up in one of the UK’s most romantic cities Read between the lines of the Bath Literature Festival Chuckles galore at the Bath Comedy Festival Spring Out: daffodils, bluebells, snowdrops – we take you on a tiptoe around the season’s freshest flower walks The Royal Crescent hotel reveals the results of their spa makeover and the Gainsborough Hotel and Spa opens its doors Bath’s top chefs unveil their spring menus
...and much, much more!
Twilight Tour & Dinner Enjoy a tour of the Roman Baths by torchlight and a three course dinner at the Roman Baths Kitchen. Start – 3.30pm or earlier Arrive at the Roman Baths to collect an audioguide to start part one of the tour. At your own pace, view the treasures from the Roman town, baths and temple complex. Tour – 4.30pm Meet your guide at the Great Bath for an exclusive guided tour around the torchlit baths, where you can ask any questions. Tour finish – 5.15pm approx. Dinner – from 5.30pm At your leisure enjoy a three course dinner at the Roman Baths Kitchen, opposite the main entrance to the Roman Baths. Last orders 8pm.
£38.00
per person
Available Thursday–Sunday Booking details Please contact the Visitor Information Centre on: Telephone: 0844 847 5256 Email: tourism@bathtourism.co.uk Website: www.visitbath.co.uk/twilighttour 28
Roman Baths and The Roman Baths Kitchen are managed by Bath and North East Somerset Council and catering is provided by Searcys
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