W E LC O M E
Experience the mouth-watering and imaginative food created by Chef Patron Chris Staines at Allium Brasserie.
What’s On — 02
Your guide to this colourful season in Bath
The Great Bath Feast — 05
Indulge in some serious foodie events with our top picks for the feast of the year
Richard Bertinet — 08
We’re delighted to welcome you to the privately-owned Abbey Hotel, brilliantly located just five minutes from Bath Spa train station and moments away from the highlights of this great city.
Bath’s best known baker tells us why he loves the city and its culinary treats
Colonna & Small’s — 12
Serving coffees, afternoon tea, drinks and cocktails created by the best mixologist in Bath, Andrew Fisher.
Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood on Speciality Coffee
We’ll be celebrating fantastic food throughout The Great Bath Feast (1st-31st October 2013) with events and dinners.
Sam Coltman, head chef at The Marlborough Tavern, shares his passion for game
Walcot Street — 18 Explore the artisan quarter
Christmas and New Year 2013 Festive food, drinks, events and parties in Bath’s first pop-up snow-covered après-ski bar. For full details of Christmas and New Year at the Abbey Hotel visit: www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk FREE glass of wine when you order a two-course meal from our set menu, served 12–3pm and 5–7pm. Call to book on 01225 461603 and quote “theSource” to qualify.
Jamie Cullum — 28
The Jazz Man on his West Country roots and time in Bath
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!
FROM THE COVER
Breaking bread with Richard Bertinet
Family Focus — 30
05
The Festival’s young curators quiz creative director David Almond
Autumn Out — 35
theSource Autumn 2013 Publisher: Bath Tourism Plus (visitbath.co.uk)
08
Design: So Design Consultants (so-design.co.uk) Journo in residence: Melissa Blease Advertising: emma_crofts@bathtourism.co.uk
01225 461603 iantaylor@alliumbrasserie.com @Abbeyatbath @alliumbrasserie @artbarbath
Shop — 22 Eat & Drink — 23 Listen & Watch — 24 Discover — 26
Quite simply, we aim to be theSource of inspiration and information for visitors to Bath and the surrounding area – an indispensable guide to all that’s great and good about life in our wonderful World Heritage City. We are passionate about introducing visitors to every beat of the pulse that we lucky locals thrive on, from hidden corners and secret histories all the way through to the extraordinary sights and experiences that have made this truly individual 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, serving up everything from high culture to sheer indulgence guaranteed to reward your mind, body and soul.
Four fantastic seasonal walks
For all bookings and enquiries please contact us on:
In The Top 50 Restaurants outside London
Name of the Game — 14
Welcome to the very first issue of theSource Bath, a brand new seasonal publication that provides the inside track on the very best experiences that our rather special city has to offer.
1 North Parade, Bath, BA1 1LF www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk
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
28 1
W HAT ’ S O N
theSource
A roundup of exciting events in Bath this Autumn
Autumn is upon us, bringing with it an abundant harvest of culture, merrymaking, feasting and fun to the Heritage City. The lazy, hazy days of summer are fast becoming a memory, but the first harsh chills of winter are yet to bite – and Bath has never looked more beautiful, from the local produce that proliferates on menus everywhere to the exciting array of events that guarantee a chic but cosy autumn season for all. A grand portion of the October calendar is set to be dominated by the second annual Great Bath Feast (October 1-31): a richly textured celebration of local food and drink offering a diverse programme of events and deals to suit all tastes and wallets; turn to pages 5-7 for the full lowdown and don’t miss our profile of legendary Bath baker Richard Bertinet on pages 8 and 9.
If you’re looking for further tasteful inspiration this season, we’ve got the lowdown on all-things-coffee-related from coffee expert and award-winning Barista Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood – page 10
If you’re looking for further tasteful inspiration this season, we’ve got the lowdown on all-things-coffee-related from coffee expert and awardwinning Barista Maxwell ColonnaDashwood on page 10, and we’ve put the spotlight on local, seasonal food in the form of Great British Game with Marlborough Tavern head chef Sam Coltman on page 14. Fancy an appropriate tipple to sup with those lovely big local flavours? Pay close attention to our Abbey Ales panel on the following page. Away from the glorious gourmet agenda, there’s double festival fun in the form of the Telegraph Bath Children’s Literature Festival (September 27–October 6) (see pages 30-31) and the Jane Austen Festival (13-21 September), and
2
further theatrical highlights make for a very dramatic autumn entertainment programme for all. Meanwhile, prior to his homecoming gig at The Forum on October 23, singer-songwriter Jamie Cullum talks to theSource about how Bath has influenced his life in our exclusive interview on pages 28-29.
Those in search of a spot of retail therapy have certainly come to the right place. Bath represents the ultimate shopping pitstop, from the glossy high street haven that is Southgate to the chic designer boutiques in Milsom Place by way of all manner of fascinating shoplined lanes, bustling alleyways and markets to explore. In this issue, our Shop Around section (page 18) focuses specifically on Walcot Street – an area that has, since the 1960s, held the informal title of Bath’s Artisan Quarter which represents the essence of independent life in the city today. Ready to shop until you drop? Walcot Street goes large on vintage clothes, chic interior designers, neat boutiques, galleries, delightful deli-style dining – the list is endless and demands exploration. While you’re out and about on the shopping trail, make sure you don’t overlook a couple of Bath’s lovely, traditionally British experiences: the Highgrove Shop (Milsom Street), where the shelves are laden with exclusive British products for the home inspired by HRH’s garden at Highgrove (all profits go to The Prince of Wales’s Charitable Foundations), or the aptly-named The British Emporium (Cheap Street): a veritable Aladdin’s Cave of browsable delights all made in Britain.
The magnificent backdrop against which Bath rolls along is endless, and we urge you to explore it all – just don’t forget to take us with you!
Other must see spots include the Royal Crescent, Bath Abbey, the Roman Baths, the Thermae Bath Spa, Pulteney Bridge, Prior Park. The list that combines to create the magnificent backdrop against which Bath rolls along is endless, and we urge you to explore it all – just don’t forget to take us with you!
Painting by Nick Cudworth, see page 19
Have we missed anything out? No chance! Our comprehensive 6-page events section starts on page 22. We’ve rounded up a collection of the unmissable, unique events as recommended by our panel of super-friendly locals so you can live like one too, and we know where you should go to escape the city and immerse yourself in autumnal glory in the nearby countryside.
Autumn in Bath: dive in! 3
W HAT ’ S O N
NOW OPEN
— E VE N T —
THE GREAT BATH FEAST The Great Bath Feast (October 1-31) is a month-long, city-wide celebration that acknowledges and pays tribute to the best tastes and flavours that Bath has to offer, bringing businesses in the city’s thriving food and drink sector – from local producers, passionate artisans and tiny tea shops to nationally-acclaimed culinary superstars hard at work in some of the most talked about restaurants in the UK – together to shout loudly and proudly about what they do.
YOUR INVITATION… TO EAT, TO MEET, TO STAY, TO CELEBRATE, TO ENJOY Following a very stylish £10 million renovation, the restored Bailbrook House Hotel in Bath is ready to open its doors to you to experience opulent lounges, the new Cloisters fine dining restaurant and stunning feature bedrooms. We believe great dining is all about fresh ingredients, craft and creativity. With a mix of traditional and more contemporary dishes, our Cloisters restaurant provides the atmosphere for a memorable dining experience for couples and larger groups alike. To accompany your meal, make a selection from our extensive wine list providing a mixture of old and new world wines.
Bath enjoys an exuberant food and drink scene with many creative, independent and often family-run ventures thriving alongside a selection of quality high street chains, all of whom combine to create a multitude of choice and possibilities for every taste and budget. Meanwhile, an abundance of seasonal local produce minimises food miles and attracts many of the UK’s top food industry professionals to the city – if you have stars in your eyes when it comes to celebrity chefs, you’d better have those autograph books at the ready!
9 October, for example) by way of pop-up festivals, food-related film screenings, cooking and cocktail masterclasses, lively debates, historical journeys backin-time and much, much more, all put together by the passionate original thinkers who work hard all year round to maintain Bath’s position as the jewel in the UK food scene crown. Talking of which... the Great Bath Feast team are particularly proud to welcome Mary Berry – the indisputable Queen of British Baking – back to the city she was born in (and back to the church in which she was married!) on Tuesday 29 October, just a couple of weeks after Hugh FearnleyWhittingstall drops by to introduce us to his brand new ‘River Cottage Fruit Every Day!’ book (Saturday 12 October, St Mary’s Church, Bathwick). But the events we’re focusing on here are by no means inclusive. While we’ve put together a selection of yet more fascinating highlights in our Hot Tickets list overleaf, your copy of the full, glorious Great Bath Feast
An abundance of seasonal local produce minimises food miles and attracts many of the UK’s top food industry professionals to the city.
Please call 01225 855100 to make a reservation.
CLOISTE S R E S TA U R A N T
Eveleigh Avenue, London Road West, Bath BA1 7JD 01225 855100 bailbrookhouse.co.uk
But there’s far more to the Feast than celebrity sightings alone. The rolling programme offers an array of unique events from tasting opportunities on the hoof (Great Bath Feast Taste Trail) to grand wine tastings and star-studded special menu events at some of the most highly-acclaimed restaurants in the UK (legendary bon viveur Prue Leith CBE is at the Allium Brasserie on Wednesday
programme (available from the Visitor Information Centre, Abbey Churchyard) is your ultimate passport to the tastiest adventure in the West Country. Meanwhile, the Great Bath Feast Pavilion (Stall Street) will be open to all as the Feast rolls along, and the website will be continually updated with further information, news and additional events fresh from the kitchens across Bath. 5
G RE AT BAT H F E AS T
theSource
GREAT BATH FEAST HOT TICKETS Enjoy a stylish 4-course dinner accompanied by music from former principal Sydney Symphony Orchestra cellist Nathan Waks and wines from Kilkanoon Wines at Bailbrook House, Friday 18 October.
We’re all aware of what the Romans did for Bath. But how does the Roman heritage translate to the plate of modern-day diners? Take a gourmet voyage of discovery at a unique event that puts an up-to-date spin on the provenance of the past at the British Roman Feast at Gascoyne Place, Thursday 3 & Thursday 17 October.
Love Food Festival at Green Park Station, Sunday 20 October.
Hot stuff! The Big Chilli Weekend in partnership with the Upton Cheyney Chilli Farm, hosted by the Vegetarian Cookery School: Saturday 12/Sunday 13 October.
We’re delighted to have the support of Hugh FearnleyWhittingstall, Michael Caines, Mary Berry & Sally Butcher for this great and noble endeavour.” Robert Toppings, Toppings & Company Booksellers.
Gain an evocative insight into Georgian life at No 1 Royal Crescent – the first house to be built in the Crescent, today beautifully restored to exacting authentic standards – and taste history in the making: Making It Happen: Recreating a Georgian Feast, Wednesday 9 October.
Experience the ultimate wine tasting adventure at the Great Western Wines Portfolio Tasting and sample 100+ wines from boutique wineries at the Assembly Rooms, Thursday 24 October.
Indulge your senses at a special screening of director Gabriel Axel’s sumptuous, extravagant 1987 masterpiece ‘Babette’s Feast’ at Komedia (in association with the Little Theatre Cinema), Monday 14 October.
Cheesy does it! The Fine Cheese Co Festival at Milsom Place will host the UK’s top artisan cheese makers – typically small producers who use traditional methods often with milk from their own herds - who will share their award winning, champion cheeses and passion for their craft on Saturday 26 October.
Take a walk on the gourmet wild side at the Bath Life Safari Supper on Wednesday 16 October and enjoy a starter, main course and dessert courtesy of the top chefs at three of Bath’s most celebrated restaurants: the elegant Dower House at the Royal Crescent Hotel (David Campbell), glorious gastropub Chequers (Leigh Evans) and the glamorous Olive Tree at the Queensberry Hotel (Chris Cleghorn).
6
Discover the secrets of ‘A Perfect Bake?’ with world-class authority on the bread baking process Stan Cauvain at Sally Lunn’s, Tuesday 22 October.
“This beautiful part of the world is a food lovers’ paradise, surrounded as you are by some of the best ingredients brought to you by the most passionate people in the business. The Great Bath Feast is a celebration of this bounty and enthusiasm.”
Taste the best of the British locally sourced autumn season courtesy of a Feast of Local Game at the Garrick’s Head (Saturday 26 October).
Raymond Blanc
7
P RO F I L E
— PROFI LE —
RICHARD BERTINET
Born in Brittany, North West France, master baker and chef Richard Bertinet has lived in Bath for eight years. He has written four award-winning books (including the classics ‘Dough’ and ‘Crust’) and was named BBC Food Champion in the Radio 4 Food and Farming Awards 2010. Today he runs the globally-renowned Bertinet Kitchen Cookery School and the Bertinet Bakery, which has two cafés/shops in Bath. We caught up with Richard over a coffee and a croissant (what else?) to talk about life in Bath.
Tell us a little bit about your involvement with this year’s Great Bath Feast (see pages 5-7) The Bertinet Bakery will be taking part in both the Taste Trail and The Great Bath Breakfast. Meanwhile, the Cookery School is running a special programme of events featuring hands-on classes with Michelin starred superstars, Masterchef winners, a legendary chocolatier and classes focusing on local produce, butchery and cheesemaking. Away from the baking ovens, what aspects of life in Bath do you enjoy the most? Bath is a wonderfully beautiful place to live. I love walking to work – just strolling through the Circus in the morning makes me smile. And I love the fact that the countryside is so close to hand as I like to fish and hunt in my spare time. Eating, drinking and shopping in Bath: where would you recommend? For coffee, I really like the Society Cafe. Our bakery in New Bond Street Place is great for morning pastries, but for a cooked breakfast, Same, Same but Different is brilliant. I often grab lunch at Yen Sushi, and for the quintessentially English Afternoon Tea experience you can’t beat The Royal Crescent Hotel – if
you sit in their glorious garden, the world seems a million miles away. For a cosy dinner à deux, my wife and I love the King William, but if I’m talking business I tend to take clients to Allium at the Abbey Hotel. Top of my list on places to try next is Menu Gordon Jones, but every time I book a table events conspire against me! When it comes to retail therapy, I visit Sisi & May or Lux (both on Bartlett Street) when I’m shopping for my wife,
Bath is a wonderfully beautiful place to live. I love walking to work, just strolling through the Circus in the morning makes me smile. Bloomsbury (New Bond Street) for jewellery or gifts and Maze (Green Street) or Marc Wallace (George Street) for me – Marc made my morning suit for my wedding years ago in London! What’s next on the Richard Bertinet calendar? I’ve just started work on my fifth book, ‘Patisserie’, and we’re constantly busy looking at new products for the bakery and new classes for the Cookery School, so keep your eyes peeled – there’s lots more to come!
Richard’s Foodie Picks BREAKFAST Society Cafe (Kingsmead Square) Same Same but Different (Bartlett Street) LUNCH & TEA Yen Sushi (Bartlett Street) Royal Crescent Hotel (Royal Crescent) SUPPER King William (Thomas Street) Allium Brasserie (North Parade) Menu Gordon Jones (Wellsway)
Bertinet Kitchen 12 St. Andrew’s Terrace, Bath BA1 2QR Bertinet Bakery and Café 6 New Bond Street Place, Bath BA1 1BH Bertinet Bakery 2 Brunel Square, Bath BA1 1SX bertinet.com
9
TOP P I C K S
— Q& A —
MAXWELL COLONNA-DASHWOOD
ARTBAR & LOUNGE Coffee or cocktails in style
Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood established coffee specialists Colonna and Small’s in 2009, with the aim of focusing on and exploring speciality coffees with an emphasis on flavour and provenance. In 2012, Maxwell won the illustrious UK Barista Champion award and came sixth in the World Barista Championships as the UK representative. What are your Top Tips for a decent home brew? Using freshly roasted coffee is really important – coffee loses most of its exciting flavour within four weeks from roast. I recommend letting the coffee rest for five days before opening. The quality of the water is a vital component too; most water is too hard and full of too many minerals, but something like Volvic will yield good results. Letting the water go off the boil for around a minute makes a difference to lighter roasted coffee. When it comes to personal taste, play around with the variables,
i.e. the ratio of water to coffee and how long you brew for; the key to making great coffee is tasting and altering those variables to maximise flavour. But the more coffee you drink and the more you think about what’s happening when you taste it, the better you will get at it. Think about things like acidity, sweetness,
When it comes to personal taste, play around with the variables, i.e. the ratio of water to coffee and how long you brew for. saltiness, and then work from these basic sensations to pinpoint the complexities. Bear in mind too that specialist coffee displays more of its character when it cools down, and delicate filters don’t combine so well with milk. Specialist espresso, on the other hand, tends to combine wonderfully with milk.
Colonna and Smalls 6 Chapel Row, Bath BA1 1HN 07766 808067, colonnaandsmalls.co.uk
What’s your personal favourite brew? With different coffees arriving all the time, my favourites are always changing. I’ve recently been enjoying fresh Kenyan coffees – they’re always exciting to taste as they often have unique blackcurrant and tomato notes. As far as format goes, espressos and filter are so opposed – specialist espresso is intense and complex, whereas specialist filters are much more delicate and tea-like. I go for espresso in the morning and the elegance of filter in the afternoon. What aspects of life in Bath do you most enjoy? The size of the city, paired with its dynamism in terms of business and people, paired with the atmosphere and surrounding countryside make it pretty special. I love Sam’s Kitchen, and I always try to make the most of the wonderful Bath Film Festival in November.
ArtBar & Lounge is the most stylish place to relax in Bath. Read the morning papers over coffee, meet friends for afternoon tea or sip a THE CORK cocktail created by expert in-house Pub, bar, and terrace mixologist Andrew Fisher, a man who has something of a reputation The Cork offers Bath a unique style in Bath for his encyclopaedic venue with a classic style pub on knowledge of spirits and amazing one floor, contemporary bar on the other with a great heated ALLIUM BRASSERIE cocktails which he can shake or stir exactly as you like them. Andrew can outside terrace. Relax or party Independent, relaxed, also guide you through an excellent on with a huge selection of local stylish dining wine list which features some real ales, lagers, ciders, wines, champagnes and a great cocktail Renowned chef/patron Chris Staines exclusive labels. Meanwhile, there’s free Wi-Fi throughout so bring your selection. Home cooked British weaves gastromagic using the laptop – or better still, drop in at cuisine with an à la carte menu and freshest, seasonal ingredients he the end of the working day or after daily specials. There’s also an option can source. Seasonal set menus, dinner in Allium Brasserie, and of set menu or buffet to suit all your light lunchtime dishes or the full chillax (as the PM would say!). needs for booking larger groups. Monty. What’s on the menu? Teas & coffees, free Wi-Fi, live sport, open late on weekends, Sunday fun Flame grilled mackerel Salt & pepper Mains from: £16.50 Cocktails: choose from a wide pub quiz. Your perfect venue for all prawns, asian pickles, satay sauce selection, including Sunshine Mary, year round! Summer fruit Collins, Vesper and Roast breast of corn fed chicken, Strawberries on Acid. Food served 12–9.30pm crushed Jerusalem artichokes, thecork.co.uk braised radish, wild asparagus abbeyhotelbath.co.uk 01225 333582 & a truffle cream sauce 01225 461603 Lemon Posset, orange salad & lemon yoghurt sorbet
Mains from: £14.95 abbeyhotelbath.co.uk 01225 461603 11
theSource
—
TH E OF F IC IAL
—
BATH APP
Discover more: integrated maps, events, opening times, discounts, where to eat & drink and augmented reality! To download, search for ‘Bath’ in the App Store and Play Store.
By day or by night, come rain or shine...
To watch our Spa video, please scan the QR code or visit our website
...bathe and relax in Bath’s natural thermal Spa Open daily from 9.00 – 21.30 www.ThermaeBathSpa.com
VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE GIFT SHOP Speciality Gift Shop
The Gift Shop offers a wide range of quality souvenirs and locally made gifts, ideal to bring home for friends and to remind you of your trip to Bath. From spa vouchers and postcards to teddy bears and tablemats, the gift shop has something for everyone. Don’t forget to pick up your Bath Visitor Discount Card, there are fantastic offers available such as 2 for 1 entry at some of Bath’s best attractions and some great discounts at Bath’s best eateries. Make sure you pop in for a browse before you leave – we are located in Abbey Churchyard, just next to Bath Abbey. Suggestions: The Visitor Discount Card is a great way to see the sights and save money! Abbey Chambers, Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1 1LY visitbathshop.co.uk
12
Delight in the cosy atmosphere at The Bath Priory Restaurant with it’s inspired cuisine overseen by Michelin starred Executive Chef Sam Moody.
VINTAGE TO VOGUE Vintage unisex fashion and retro accessories
One of the city’s best loved Vintage shops, Vintage to Vogue is a sartorial outlet of the very highest quality, situated just off Milsom Street. Specialising in carefully selected men’s and women’s clothing and accessories from bygone eras all the way through to items from the classic designers of today, explore an impressive range of vintage ladies wear, a dedicated menswear department, and a vast selection of retro accessories, footwear and homeware, all in a characterful courtyard setting. Other services include friendly advice and tips on personal styling for men and women and an alteration service.
LUNCH Monday-Friday
28 Milsom Street, Bath BA1 1DG vintagetovoguebath.co.uk
Make your reservation today, call:
£19.95 for two courses £25.00 for three courses LUNCH Saturday
£25.50 for two courses £35.00 for three courses LUNCH Sunday
£35.00 for three courses including coffee and petits fours
01225 331922
Please quote SOURCE MAGAZINE when calling.
The Bath Priory, Weston Road, Bath, BA1 2XT E: mail@thebathpriory.co.uk www.thebathpriory.co.uk www.gidleighcollection.co.uk
theSource
— Q& A —
THE NAME OF THE GAME Sam Coltman, head chef at The Marlborough Tavern, shares his passion for game: the ultimate locally sourced taste of autumn. Where did your passion for game begin? I grew up in Castle Combe (a small village just north of Bath), where game is everywhere; it’s a big part of my life, and I love cooking with it. Game has big, strong, distinct flavours that are great to work – there are lots of imaginative pairings to try, so I can let my creativity loose.
Game goes well with ales too... Indeed it does! We source some great ales from local brewery, Box Steam Brewery. They do a wonderful brew called ‘Dark & Handsome’ (5% ABV): a smooth, creamy beer with hints of lemon, blackcurrant and liquorice undertones. It works well with big intense dishes so is a perfect match for many game dishes, especially venison.
Where do you get your game? We source it all from West Country Game who manage a 35-acre estate not far from Bath, near Chippenham. They supply us with everything from venison and rabbit to pheasant, partridge, pigeon and duck.
Game dates for your diary: Try Sam’s special ‘Festival of Game’ at The Marlborough Tavern (marlborough-tavern.com) on Wednesday 9 October, or tuck into a ‘Feast of Local Game’ at The Garrick’s Head on Saturday 26 October (both events part of the Great Bath Feast).
What’s the difference between game and more familiar meat? Game is a very natural product as game animals are generally wild, and live a naturally organic, healthy life. Unlike most farmed animals, wild animals are always on the move so their muscles are lean, low in fat and well-developed. Their diet is very varied and includes natural grasses, insects, berries and grains, but the distinctive ‘gamey’ flavour comes partly from diet, partly from the amount of exercise the game animals/ birds get, and partly from how long they are hung for: the longer it’s hung for, the stronger the flavour. In days of old, birds would be hung for weeks before cooking; today, that would be far too long for modern day palates! What are the main flavour distinctions to pay attention to? Generally speaking, pheasant has a rich poultry-like flavour, where partridge is more subtle. Venison tastes distinctly stronger than most red meats, but is in fact virtually fat free. Venison works well with rich sauces, berries (I often like to use juniper) and even chocolate, which might sound surprising, but works really well.
The Marlborough Tavern 35 Marlborough Buildings, Bath BA1 2LY 01225 423731, marlborough-tavern.com 14
01_GPS_AD_SOURCE.indd 1
— A LE & HE A RTY —
ABBEY ALES
Founded in 1997, Abbey Ales is Bath’s very own (and only!) brewery, highly regarded for their glorious brews, most notably their Camra prize-winning beer Bellringer – a golden 4.2% abv best bitter, the perfect accompaniment to autumn flavours. Meanwhile, fans of proper pubs love the AA ‘family’ (The Star Inn, the Coeur de Lion and the Assembly) for their downhome approach, warm welcome and sturdy, proper pub grub. Little wonder, then, that when The Trinity – the fourth acquisition in this lively mini-empire – opened its doors last year, glasses were raised throughout the Heritage City.
abbeyales.co.uk
10/07/2013 19:37
theSource
Three great Bath pubs...
THE CHEQUERS
Award-winning gastropub This beautifully-restored gastropub has been serving customers since 1776. Today, expect great tasting, award-winning food served in a Refined dining in a friendly atmosphere. Situated a short glamorous environment walk from The Circus and The Royal Proudly independent, The Olive Crescent, the Chequers’ reputation Tree Restaurant has been serving for great food and service has made outstanding food to Bathonians and it a firm favourite with Bathonians visitors to Bath for over 20 years. – it’s where Bath residents ‘in the Head Chef Chris Cleghorn is one of know’ go. Head Chef Leigh Evans the UK’s brightest young talents and was recently recognised as one of in July 2013 Tom Chesshyre wrote the country’s leading up-and-coming about Chris in The Times “under talents when he won a coveted THE PORTER consideration for a Michelin Star, he stands a good chance”. industry ‘Acorn’ award – the Different on every level catering industry’s oscars for rising Mains from: £18 This exciting new addition to the Bath culinary superstars; little wonder Don’t miss: As part of The Great Bath social, foodie and cultural scene is a that advance booking is highly Feast, The Olive Tree Restaurant is place where you can eat, drink, work recommended. joining forces with Enotria, the UK’s and play: a home from home… only leading wine supplier to host a very better. Set lunch from: £12 special evening of fantastic wines Dishes: Trio of Lamb: rump, breast and delicious food on October 28. With an all-day informal kitchen& sweet breads, Bombay potato, style dining headed up by a double braised fennel, roast tomato & 4-7 Russel Street, Bath BA1 2QF Michelin-starred chef Rob Clayton, curried lentils; Haunch of venison, two bars serving specialist craft olivetreebath.co.uk beers and cocktails, a lounge and radishes, spring onion croquette, 01225 447928 private rooms for meetings or onion textures & watercress celebrations, and a calendar packed with a host of special events: ranging 50 Rivers Street, Bath BA1 2QA from private fine dining evenings, thechequersbath.com Saturday children’s club to cocktail 01225 360017 master-classes, wine tastings, supper clubs and live music, there’s something for everyone.
THE OLIVE TREE RESTAURANT
15A George Street, Bath BA1 2EN theporter.co.uk
35 Marlborough Buildings Bath BA1 2LY www.marlborough-tavern.com 01225 423731
Lansdown Road Bath BA1 5TJ www.hareandhoundsbath.com 01225 482682
Which will you choose? Whichever you choose, you can be sure of great tasting, home cooked food served in a friendly pub atmosphere.
e
B AT H P U B C O M PA N Y
16
50 Rivers Street Bath BA1 2QA www.thechequersbath.com 01225 360017
Limited
WA LC OT STR E E T
theSource
— T H E FAC ES OF —
WALCOT STREET The slumbering beasts of Walcot Street awake Welcome to wonderful Walcot Street: Bath’s Artisan Quarter, offering a vibrant, eclectic collection of independent trading posts from vintage clothes to gleaming, cutting-edge design inspirations with all manner of gourmet foodie havens dotted around to keep energy levels up as you meander. Let us introduce you to some of the traders, characters and experiences that combine to create a memorable foray into one of the Heritage City’s most characterful neighbourhoods, made all the more fascinating this autumn by the Great Wall of Walcot exhibition, sponsored by the Framing Workshop and depicting a display of comic, realistic or mythical stone-carved faces celebrating characters from recent history in trail form for you to explore. For many Bathonians, Walcot Street isn’t just a thoroughfare on the Bath map but a way of life; we hope you enjoy the experience as much as we do. theframingworkshop.com
RAISIN WINES Bath’s Independent Wine Merchant
Raisin Wine is an Independent Wine Merchant centrally located in Bath town centre. We specialise in the wines from South America, Italy and Spain championing many small garage producers. We also have a fine range of Artisan Malt Whisky, Gin, Rum and Tequila selected for the connoisseur.
SHANNON
Beautiful Scandinavian home furnishings
Special Offer: Select any 6 bottles of Wine and receive 5% off. 10% off on any 12 Wines. FREE delivery.
NICK CUDWORTH GALLERY Seascapes 3-29 September
raisinwine.co.uk
This little shop is full of vibrant, colourful fabrics, tableware and iconic Scandinavian furniture, including Hans Wegner furniture, sheepskin chairs from Swedese, Marimekko fabrics, china and glass from Iittala, Arabia, iconic Rorstrand and more Moomin gifts than you can possibly imagine!
Nick Cudworth paints and exhibits his work in his own studio/gallery, and his Seascapes exhibition represents his most recent inspirations. His interests include Bath landscapes, music and portraits, one of which was recently purchased by The National Portrait Gallery. Visitors are welcome to browse and talk with the artist.
Great for: unique gifts shannon-uk.com
nickcudworth.com
—
GET TO KNOW
BATH
—
Bath spa water contains 43 minerals and has a very, erm, distinctive flavour. Try a free sample at the Pump Rooms (within the Roman Baths complex).
18
19
COTSWOLD
waitrose.com/bath
C OUN T R Y
Your Waitrose in Bath has everything you need for breakfast, including the toaster. Visit us on Northgate Street.
Country Clothing & Footwear Specialists www.cotswoldcountry.co.uk
28 Milsom Street • Bath • BA1 1DG
Tel: 01225 310469
E: maxine@cotswoldcountry.co.uk All products are subject to availability.
DRINKS EVERY NIGHT.3TICKETS AT MOLES.CO.UK CCL_0081DEALS Bath Half Page Ad.indd
The British Emporium 23/07/2013 19:27
Bath Ad 2.indd 1
18/07/2013 14:29
Visit our Bath shop for beautiful, British made products inspired by the gardens at Highgrove
CELEBRATING 35 YEARS OF GREAT LIVE MUSIC AND DJs IN THE HEART OF BATH THURSDAY 12 SEPT +SLAVES 10PM/FREE B4 12
DRENGE
MONDAY 16 SEPT
NO CEREMONY
THURSDAY 3 OCT +LIONFACE 10PM/FREE B4 12
FEMME FRIDAY 4 OCT
BEN PEARCE+GUESTS
7PM/£5/£4 NUS
10PM/£7
SATURDAY 21 SEPT
SATURDAY 5 OCT
7PM/£9ADV/£10 OTD
10PM/£7
THE PRIMITIVES
Buy British
... Unique Shopping Experience in Bath
INTRODUCING PLAY DAFT PUNK’S DISCOVERY LIVE
SATURDAY 28 SEPT
SATURDAY 12 OCT
THE SOUND OF JOY DIVISION. 7PM/£6 ADV/£7
7PM/£7/£6 NUS
SUNDAY 29 SEPT
SATURDAY 26 OCT
7PM/£8.50/14+
10PM/FREE B4 12
TRANSMISSION LAZY HABITS CANTERBURY
WAVE/80S RAPTURE NEW ELECTRO/DISCO
TheBigCheese CHEESEY POP CLASSICS £3.50 NUS/£4
For a chance to WIN a luxurious Highgrove Christmas Hamper please visit the store on Milsom Street and complete a competition entry form. Competition is open to UK residents only. Closing date for entries
Hip-Hop/R’n’B. £4/£3 NUS
FREE ENTRY b4 12
George St•Bath•BA1 2EN•moles.co.uk•01225 404445
is 27th November 2013. Full terms and conditions available at: www.highgroveenterprises.com/competitions/
ALL PROFITS FROM THE SALE OF HIGHGROVE PRODUCTS AND EVENTS ARE PAID TO THE PRINCE OF WALES’S CHARITABLE FOUNDATION.
15 CHEAP STREET
near Bath Abbey and Roman Baths www.the-british-emporium.co.uk
38 Milsom Street, Bath
01225 445125 www.highgroveshop.com
E V E N TS
theSource
—
T H I S A U T U MN
—
—
SHOP
If you’re lucky enough to arrive in Bath in October, welcome to the Great Bath Feast! But the gourmet banquet doesn’t end when the city’s glorious annual celebration of food is over for another year. If you’re in the mood to set sail on a foodie adventure you’ve come to the right place. Bath is home to a grand selection of restaurants, cafés, pubs, bars, brasseries, bistros, delis, local food producers, markets and pop-up ventures – many of them independently owned and/or long-established, family-run businesses. So settle down, tuck in and loosen your (seat)belts – you’re in for an eminently tasteful ride.
01
Bath Pavilion Beer Festival 2013 Bath Pavilion 18/19 October The Pavilion Beer Festival returns to Bath, bringing with it at least 70 real ales plus traditional ciders, live music and hot food opportunities. clstickets.co.uk
Shop, browse and taste the produce at Bath Farmer’s Market – the one that kickstarted the national Farmers’ Market movement – every Saturday morning at Green Park Station, Green Park Road, BA1 1JB
The Bath Chilli Festival 5/6 October 10am-6pm University of Bath, Claverton Down BA2 7AY Bath’s first Chilli Festival will be a gastronomic, scientific event that includes a chilli market, cultivation talks and live entertainment – hot stuff indeed! bathchillifestival.com
MARKET FORCES
22
—
EAT & DRINK
Live Like a Local
Bath’s markets combine a taste of local, every day life with a bit of street theatre for good measure. The historic Guildhall Market (High Street) brings books, fashion accessories, fancy dress, gift shops, food stalls, cafes and more all together under one (weather proof!) roof every day apart from Sundays. Shop, browse and taste the produce at Bath Farmer’s Market. Also at Green Park Station, but offering a very different experience, Bath Vintage and Antiques Market (BathVA) swings into gear on the last Sunday of every month – retro, upcycled, previously loved: describe your finds whichever way you want, but just make sure you grab yourself an eclectic bargain! Meanwhile, Milsom Place Producer’s Market brings a collection of food-based stall holders to this super-pretty, courtyard-based location every Saturday morning and the vibrant Green Street Sunday Markets are open to all every Sunday until the end of October.
T HI S AUT UMN
Live Like a Local Undercover Vintage & Antiques market Sunday 1 & 29 September, 6 & 27 October, 9.30am-4pm An exciting day out for Vintage, Antique & Art lovers. The undercover venue, Green Park Station, is an antique in itself, offering a great setting for the vast mix of midCentury glassware, ceramics and furniture coupled with retro clothing and art – it is a true combination of all the that’s quirky and wonderful! Green Park Station, Green Park Road, Bath BA1 1JB
02
Sumptuous seasonal Mediterranean food on the menu and free live jazz on the stage every WednesdaySaturday evening at Green Park Brasserie, Green Park Road, BA1 1JB
03
Highly acclaimed Modern British menus and free live jazz in the historic, atmospheric, subterranean lounge at Gascoyne Place (Saw Close, BA1 1EY) every Sunday evening.
British Roman Feast Thursday 3 & Thursday 17 October, 7.30pm for 8pm Gascoyne Place Take a gourmet voyage of discovery at a unique event that puts an upto-date spin on the provenance of the past. 4 courses (plus a welcome drink and canapés on arrival) £45. Booking essential. gascoyneplace.co.uk Yammo & Raisin Wine: A Neapolitan Adventure 8 October A lively evening of Neapolitan hospitality courtesy of a 7-course Tasting Menu hosted by Yammo! with wine from Raisin Wines. Yammo! 66 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BD 01225 938328 23
theSource
—
T H I S A U T U MN
—
—
LISTEN & WATCH
GET TO KNOW
BATH
E V E N TS
—
If you stand in the middle of the Circus and clap your hands, the echo will reverberate around this natural amphitheatre at least half a dozen times.
ART ATTACK!
The Rostra Gallery (rostragallery.co.uk) is a popular Heritage City epicentre for affordable, contemporary art in a welcoming gallery setting – go on, take a browse!
FRONT ROW SEATS
The Theatre Royal (theatreroyal.org. uk) is looking forward to welcoming a roll call of board-treading superstars including Maureen Lipman, Felicity Kendall and Simon Callow this season, alongside a host of illustrious company visitors including the Globe Theatre, English Touring Opera Company and Rambert on a captivating programme offering grand spectacle for all. But don’t overlook Bath’s smaller independent theatres if you’re in search of dramatic entertainment. The Mission Theatre is hosting a rich, diverse programme of Austenrelated events and performances as part of the annual Jane Austen Festival and an array of unmissable diary dates in connection with the Telegraph Bath Children’s Literature Festival (see separate panels for the full lowdown on both festivals) alongside their regular autumn programmes. Meanwhile, the Rondo Theatre (rondotheatre.co.uk) presents all manner of unique oneman shows, brand new plays and musical performances as autumn gets underway, including legendary guitarist Gordon Giltrap on 19 September.
24
SMALL TALK
As pages and pages of broadsheets dedicated specifically to the genre attest to, the days when reviews and related publicity around children’s fiction was sidelined or restricted to Christmas and summer holiday roundups have long since gone. Little wonder, then, that since its inception in 2007 the Telegraph Bath Children’s Literature Festival (September 27-October 6) has become the kiddie-lit equivalent of the Glastonbury Festival: the UK’s largest dedicated celebration of children’s books and reading, offering a massive programme of ticketed events specifically aimed at children, teenagers and their families. But don’t be kidded into thinking that you’re too old to join in the fun. Whether you’ve got little ones in tow or not, there’s plenty to keep bookworms of all ages busy – and, for aspiring authors, plenty of hot tips to pick up as you go. For further information, see our feature on pages 30-31 or visit bathfestivals. org.uk/childrens-literature/
HOT TICKETS The Shock of the New at the Rostra Gallery 5-27 October Images courtesy of Sir Peter Blake, Dan Baldwin, Joe Webb & lenticular’s by Martin Richardson. rostragallery.co.uk Comedy @ The Cork 5 September, 3 October Pay a visit to chucklesville from 8pm with host ‘Fitz of Laughter’ – good times guaranteed! thecork.co.uk Teechers by John Godber at The Mission Theatre Tuesday 29 October-Saturday 2 November A double cast from Next Stage Youth breathe vibrant life into this hilarious take on education and expectation. missiontheatre.co.uk
Live Like a Local 04
Offering a glorious vista at the Keep up with the cultural scene top of Pulteney Street and set at the Chapel Arts Centre (Lower in breathtakingly beautiful Borough Walls, BA1 1QR). This surroundings, the Holburne Museum laid-back vegetarian café by day is proud to welcome a striking turns into a community arts mecca exhibition selected from the Arts post-sunset and plays host to a wide Council’s Collection. It brings a host range of jazz, soul and alternative of characters both real and imagined arts performances, including unique together courtesy of an illustrious cabaret evenings and burlesque rollcall of British artists and featuring events. Hot ticket: Award-winning works by Francis Bacon, Lucian folk fusion outfit The Roving Crows, Freud, Paula Rego and 2013 Turner Saturday 9 November Prize nominated Lynette YiadomBoakye alongside many other leading figurative artists of the last half-Century (12 October–7 January; holburne.org). The Victoria Art So, has Bath got talent? Find out at Gallery (victoriagal.org.uk) puts the Open Mic Night at the Pig and Fiddle spotlight on works by William Scott every Tuesday evening and be amongst – undoubtedly Bath’s most highlythe first to discover Bath’s Next Big regarded 20th Century artist – from Thing (2 Saracen Street, BA1 5BR) 7 September-17 November. Thinking of making a date with William? Don’t HOORAH FOR miss out on a visit to the gallery’s HALLOWEEN ! inviting, inspirational shop while In the mood for getting spooky? The you’re in the vicinity! American Museum has a rich array In search of a lively, chuckle-fuelled of family-friendly, hair-raising goings night out? Head for the Krater on this year – take your pick form Comedy Club every Saturday evening the Day of the Dead Shadow Puppet at Komedia (Westgate Street BA1 Festival (29 October), American Ghost 1EP), renowned for hosting the best Story Tour (30 October), a Happy up-and-coming stand ups on the Halloween! celebration on the great UK scene who bravely strut their day itself (31 October) and a spooky funny stuff in front of a notoriously storytelling session on 1 November vocal audience. (americanmuseum.org). Prior Park’s glorious annual Halloween Pumpkin/ Bonfire Trail (end of October/ beginning of November) is always popular and – when the fright wigs Keep an eye on events listings at come off – remember, remember The Forum (St James Parade, BA1 the fifth of November (or actually, 1UG) to make sure you’re on the in this instance, 2 November)... if the guest list when the biggest live date slips your mind, the impressive music extravaganzas roll into town. annual firework display at Bath Rec Hot ticket: The Rat Pack, Friday 8 won’t let you forget it!! November
05 06
07
25
E V E N TS
theSource
—
T H I S A U T U MN
—
DISCOVER
Live Like a Local
THE WILD WEST COMES TO BATH
08
Give those little grey brain cells a thorough teasing at the St James Wine Vaults Charity Quiz (every Thursday evening, 9pm). Imaginative prizes include tickets to the Little Theatre Cinema and it only costs £1 to join in. St James Square, BA1 2TW
09
Don the blue, black and white and join the scrum down at the Rec, kicking off the fun in the traditional manner with a pint at the nearby Boater and celebrating afterwards with a pie at the Pulteney Arms (37 Daniel Street, Bath BA2 6ND). AVIVA Premiership/Amlin Cup Rugby on the official Bath Rugby homeground (city centre, BA2 4AX) throughout October & November
10
Regular events at the Raven (Queen Street, BA1 1HE) put a whole new spin on an evening down the pub. The Science Cafe (every second Monday of the month) always welcomes a leading authority on a science-related topic while the Bath Storytelling Circle weaves imaginative magic every third Monday of the month.
—
LET THERE BE LIGHT
Buffalo Bill, Bonnie and Clyde, Calamity Jane, Al Capone, George Armstrong Custer: just a handful of the headline-grabbing names that define the glorious (and not so glorious) days of America’s wild, wild west. Revisit the defining historical chapters that helped shape USA identity (the real ‘Wild West’ of the late 19th Century and the Prohibition/Depression years a handful of decades later) at the Gangsters and Gunslingers exhibition at the American Museum, until November 3. This fascinating exhibition offers a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with the real life stories behind the legendary characters of the era, showcasing treasures from the museum’s comprehensive Americana collection alongside a collection of unique memorabilia such as the watch worn by Clyde Barrow in his final moments, Native American weapons confiscated in reprisal for the Battle of Little Big Horn (‘Custer’s Last Stand’), notorious gangster Doc Holliday’s medicine bag, Al Capone’s silver cigarette case and silver screen souvenirs once owned by Hollywood superstars Humphrey Bogart, Tyrone Power and Elvis Presley. Yee-haw!
Once home to acclaimed 18th Century astronomer William Herschel (the man who discovered the planet Uranus), 29 New King Street is today one of the most fascinating museums in the UK, home to a unique array of the Herschel’s original instruments and apparatus carefully maintained and displayed in a beautifully restored, original Georgian house setting. The ‘Making Light of It’ exhibition (until 16 December) explores the art and science of light in the 18th Century, specifically focusing on Herschel’s work on the sun, his groundbreaking research into infra-red lighting and telescopes, and exploring the journey from humble rush lights and tallow to the ruinously expensive beeswax candles americanmuseum.org that swiftly became state-of-theart status symbols in the wealthy Georgian home. Works by local craftsmen and artists focusing on the theme of light are also on display in the museum herschelmuseum.org.uk
GET TO KNOW
BATH
—
Jane Austen only lived in Bath for five years (1801–1806), but set two of her six most highly-regarded published novels (‘Northanger Abbey’ and ‘Persuasion’) in the city.
AUSTEN’S POWER
Jane Austen fans from across the globe (and their numbers are legion) descend on the Heritage City every year to participate in the delights of the Jane-centric activities in and around the annual Jane Austen Festival (various venues; 13-21 September). For many, the highlight of the programme is the world famous Grand Regency Costumed Promenade that officially marks the opening of the festival (Saturday 14 September): 600 participants, dressed in full, authentic Regency costume and led by the Town Crier, meander (gracefully, of course!) from the Royal Crescent to Parade Gardens as crowds of onlookers make the most of this visual feast from the sidelines. But a myriad of events including the Very Private Public Breakfasts, performances, demonstrations, debates, discussions and minibus/walking tours guarantee that there’s something to persuade everybody to get involved, regardless of your pride and prejudice. janeausten.co.uk/festivalhome
26
DON’T MISS...
Club Paradis – Burlesque & Cabaret Chapel Arts Centre Saturday 28 September Featuring some of the UK’s finest burlesque and cabaret talent. This is one show you won’t want to miss! Hosted by the Countess Arseuppi. chapelarts.org Bath Comic & Sci-Fi Weekender 28–29 September Magic Gathering tournaments, Cosplay, Lazer Tag, Star Wars Exhibition featuring a full set of Jabba the Hut, Talks and panel, signings and stalls with loads more besides. bathcomicandscifi.co.uk Billy Smarts Circus Royal Victoria Park 17–22 September Big Top magic, brimming with a dazzling combination of theatre, music and dance. billy-smarts-circus.co.uk 27
theSource
I N TE R V I E W
— IN T E R V IE W —
JAMIE CULLUM Contemporary jazzman, acclaimed singer-songwriter and indisputably one of the nation’s favourite performers Jamie Cullum grew up in Wiltshire. As Bath eagerly anticipates welcoming him back to the city as part of the Momentum tour in October, Jamie talks to theSource about the pivotal influence of his West Country roots.
For Jamie, that career path continues to evolve. On the latest continuation of what he describes as a “six album journey” (‘Momentum’, Island Records, released last May), he’s written more songs than on any other album that preceded it. “I don’t think it’s that I’ve got better at writing,” he says, by way of explaining the influences behind this creative upsurge. “But I’ve “Looking back on my childhood, a lot of my memories revolve around being definitely grown more confident after getting married and having children outdoors a lot,” says Jamie Cullum, [Jamie married Sophie Dahl in 2010 as we take a peek into his past. and the couple celebrated the birth of “Many of my friends lived on real working farms – I remember drinking their second daughter last March]. I’ve been very lucky to have the opportunity milk straight from a cow, still warm to work out what I want to do, explore in the jug. We spent a great deal of styles, gain experience. I do what our time outside in that beautiful I feel is right, and connect with countryside – there was a real sense myself – ‘Momentum’ is yet another of community; it was a wonderful place to grow up.” And as that growing connection, a link in my chain.” up continued, Bath – Jamie’s nearest So how does Jamie feel about airing big city experience – became his playground during his teenage years. that link live in front of a Bath audience – a gig that many will people will relate “The very first gigs I went to were in to as a homecoming show? “I can’t Bath, at Moles on George Street,” he wait!,” he says. “Loads of my friends recalls. “And parties too, and my first nightclubbing experiences – Bath was still live around Bath and my family will be in the audience too, so this is at the heart of my formative years.” my opportunity to play in front of them And, as it turned out, the city also again.” But Jamie hasn’t become played a big part in the career path a stranger to Bath away from the that lay before him. “When I was a spotlight either. “In some ways, Bath teenager, I was in a band with two has changed so much since I was a really good friends Alex and George teenager that it’s hard to recognise it,” Jackson. We played outside Bath he says. “But there are still so many Abbey a lot – happy days indeed!” elements of this beautiful city that are Inevitably, it wasn’t long before familiar to me. I remember starting Jamie was playing ‘real’ gigs at Bath my evenings at the Pig and Fiddle institutions such as the Green Park (Saracen Street). I bought all my first Brasserie and the Farmhouse. But Jamie has never forgotten the value of records in independent music shops those early impromptu gigs, and avidly in Bath. Today, I still like to visit the Jazz Cafe (Kingsmead Square), Cafe supports buskers today. “I support Retro (York Street) and the Adventure anyone who is trying to make music
“The very first gigs I went to were in Bath, at Moles on George Street – Bath was at the heart of my formative years”. and get it out there in their own way,” he says. “Busking can be tough, but if there’s passion there, it’ll come through. I’ve busked again recently in Paris and London to highlight the importance of supporting live music and artists trying to break through. But there’s no easy route to success in my world – it’s a tough career path to choose.”
Cafe (George Street) – lovely little cafes, all of them. And Sophie discovered Toppings Books (The Paragon) when she visited the shop as part of one of her own book tours some years ago – as a family, we love that shop today.” And Bath loves Jamie Cullum: the truly original West Country boy who always gets a big welcome home.
Jamie Cullum plays at The Forum, Bath on Wednesday 23 October. bathforum.co.uk 28
29
FA M I LY FOC US
theSource
—
FAMILY FOCUS
GET TO KNOW
BATH
—
Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia spent the four years of his exile (1936-1940) at Fairfield House in Bath.
Jess, Hatty, Roseanna & Amelia quiz David Almond (Artistic Director of the Children’s Literature Festival)
Bath has the largest dedicated children’s book festival in Europe. Growing year on year in size, significance and popularity, this unmissable festival, involving every inch of this remarkable city, is bursting at the seams with events, workshops, storytelling sessions and fun for children of all ages, their families, and friends. Hundreds of top authors including Michael Rosen, Cressida Cowell, Judith Kerr, Jeremy Strong, Charlie Higson, Meg Rosoff and newlyappointed Children’s Laureate Malorie Blackman will be in Bath to talk about their books. All readers, from preschool to young adult, will have the chance to meet their favourite writers and have books signed. With children’s author David Almond as the guest Artistic Director, this year’s programme has been created to showcase the excitement and creativity in children’s literature and to prove that reading, writing and all forms of art really can change people’s lives. In this exclusive interview, The Telegraph Bath Children’s Literature Festival’s team of Young Curators find out more about this award winning, highly-acclaimed children’s author. 30
What inspired you to become an author? I had an uncle who was a printer, a poet, a novelist. It didn’t matter that none of his work was ever published, because if I had an uncle who was a writer, I could aspire to be the same. The landscape, language and culture of the North East are also huge influences, and of course I’m inspired by all the writers I’ve ever admired. And music, and amazing
I love just to stroll through Bath’s lovely streets, and to feel part of the bustle of this city. places like Tokyo, Marrakech and Swaledale. Being by the sea and looking up to the galaxies and watching the way birds fly…the writer has to take inspiration from everything. What do you like most about what you do? Just about all of it! I love the sensation of writing: the way the imagination works; the way words appear on paper; the sound of words, the look of them, the way they flow across the page; the way
stories develop, move and grow. I love punctuation, stationery, pens and paper clips! I love reaching out to readers with my stories, and I hope to inspire them to write stories of their own. It’s great to make my living as a writer, but even if I didn’t, I’d still be writing, writing, writing. If you weren’t an author what would you be? Maybe a countryside ranger, or an explorer. I’d also like to be an opera singer! Which event are you most looking forward to? I’m really looking forward to meeting the great Judith Kerr. What do you do in your spare time? I love just to stroll through Bath’s lovely streets, and to feel part of the bustle of this city. The Kid’s Big Bath Read with David Almond takes place at the Royal High School at 10.30am on Friday 4 October.
— E VE N T P RE VIE W — SATURDAY 28 SEPTEMBER Michael Rosen Age 5+ /family, The Forum 10.30-11.30am Join the brilliant former Children’s Laureate for a roller coaster of poems, jokes and stories. From a farting fish to chocolate cake, from hunting bear to mustard and custard, you won’t have a dull moment with this great wordsmith. Cressida Cowell Age 7+, The Forum 2.30-3.30pm How to Betray a Dragon’s Hero is the latest in the hilarious and wildly popular How To Train Your Dragon series. Join the best-selling author and illustrator in a high-energy and very funny event presenting how she comes up with new characters and plots.
FRIDAY 4 OCTOBER Malorie Blackman: The Noble Conflict Age 11+, at the Guildhall 6-6.45pm The Waterstones Children’s Laureate Malorie Blackman discusses her latest gripping novel. Kaspar lives in a peaceful society created after years of violent war. Now a group of rebels threaten the peace, and ask questions that challenge everything that Kaspar believes in.
SUNDAY 6 OCTOBER David Almond on Skellig Age 11+ Mission Theatre 1-1.45pm Skellig has worldwide acclaim and a string of major awards. Published in over thirty languages it has become a movie, an opera and a play! Come and meet David as he talks about this extraordinary story on its 15th anniversary.
SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER The Curious World of Eoin Colfer Age 11+, Guildhall 6-6.45pm Eoin Colfer, along with actors and a magician, brings to life the characters of his new time-twisting novel, W.A.R.P.: The Reluctant Assassin. Expect danger, suspense, sleight-ofhand, a live bullet catch, an armchopper, and heart-stopping illusion!
For the full programme go to bathfestivals.org.uk, tickets from £6 at the Booking Office: 01225 463362
31
TOP P I C K S
WESTONBIRT, THE NATIONAL ARBORETUM
World famous for Autumn colour
ROSTRA GALLERY
Affordable, contemporary art in a friendly gallery
STEP INTO THE PAST AT ONE OF ENGLAND’S FINEST GEORGIAN HOUSES
— www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk 10 Display Rooms • Upstairs & Downstairs • Free Information Room Georgian Shop • Disabled Access • Changing Exhibitions Open Daily 10.30am-5.30pm, except Mondays 12.00-5.30pm Joint ticket available with the Building of Bath Collection
GET TO KNOW
BATH
—
October is your last chance to visit the historical, quirky Beckford’s Tower before it closes for the winter at the end of the month: beckfordstower.org.uk
Rostra Gallery prides itself on its friendly, approachable atmosphere that takes the daunting fear out of setting foot in an art gallery. Offering an extensive selection of high quality art to suit all budgets, the gallery is full to the brim of limited edition prints, original paintings, sculpture, ceramics, craft, papercut and jewellery and is the exclusive supplier of CCA prints in the Bath area. Throughout October and November the gallery will be hosting exclusive solo shows with illustrator Tom Frost, printmaker Clare Halifax and papercut artist Rebecca Coles as well as preparing for the festive season with a stunning range of Christmas gifts. Open: Monday-Sunday, 10am-5.30pm 5 George Street, Bath BA1 2EJ rostragallery.co.uk 01225 448121
33
A UTUM N O UT
theSource
WONDERFUL WESTONBIRT ARBORETUM
AUTUMN OUT As the acclaimed 18th Century Romantic poet (and one time temporary Bath resident) Percy Bysshe Shelley once wrote, “there is a harmony in autumn and a luster in its sky, which through the summer is not heard or seen, as if it could not be, as if it had not been”. Indeed! So, make the most of the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness by taking a short jaunt away from the city and explore North East Somerset in all its technicolour glory.
34
Managed by the Forestry Commission, the internationally renowned Westonbirt Arboretum (nr. Tetbury, Gloucestershire, around 20 miles/33 kilometres from Bath) is home to over 16,000 trees incorporating 2,500 different species from Britain, China, North America, Japan, Chile and other temperate climates – and they’re all at their beautiful, bountiful best during the autumn months. Planting started in the 1850s by Robert Holford, the Victorian landowner to whom the Westonbirt estate belonged. Today, a delightful tangle of accessible paths across 600 acres of carefully maintained forestry make Westonbirt the ultimate West Country woodland experience. Explore it at your own free will, or visit the website for details of a host of fascinating activities including guided walks, planned trails, tours, photography workshops, exhibitions, educational resources and all manner of family-friendly events. forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt
TAKE TO THE SKY(LINE) The Skyline Walk offers walkers the chance to view Bath in flatplan format from the top of the hills that surround the Heritage City. Take a gentle tour through history as you meander past historical monuments including Roman settlements, an Iron Age hill fort (Little Solsbury Hill) and an 18th Century folly (Sham Castle, Bathampton), your journey will be punctuated by hidden valleys, tranquil woodlands and lush meadows, all rich in natural beauty and wildlife. The full 6 mile/9.6 kilometre recommended Skyline route takes around 3 hours to complete and can confront ramblers with steep hills to navigate at certain points, while some paths can get muddy in wet weather. You can, however, create your own bespoke Skyline plan to fit in with your schedule and preferred level of activity in accordance with the information found on the website. nationaltrust.org.uk/bath-skyline
MAGNIFICENT CHEW MAGNA
PEACEFUL PRIOR PARK
The historic village of Chew Magna (approximately 11 miles/18 kilometres from Bath) has a fascinating history dating back to medieval times when the Bishop of Bath and Wells established a pastoral retreat on the site. A small part of the original Summer Palace still survives at Chew Court, close to a 15th Century church and a multi-purpose building that has, since the 16th Century, played host to a diverse range of purposes and activities across the years before turning into a lively Community Centre. Take an easygoing wander around all these sites and more (including a monument to valiant warrior John de Hautville and the captivating 15th Century Tun Bridge) Making a day of it? There’s an enticing variety of pubs, restaurants and cafes in Chew Magna, and several inviting sleepover opportunities too. chewmagna.org.uk
It may be only a short skip away from Bath city centre (just one mile, to be precise, and a popular stopping-off point on the Skyline Walk, see above), but Prior Park Garden offers a worlds-away experience to all who immerse themselves in this breathtakingly beautiful, sweeping landscape setting. A gentle stroll around and about this picture-perfect pastoral paradise undoubtedly at its most beautiful in the autumn months, when the surrounding hills display an abundance of colour – offers visitors the opportunity to cross one of only four Palladian bridges in the world, created in the 18th Century by local entrepreneur Ralph Allen with advice from ‘Capability’ Brown and the poet Alexander Pope. Three lakes and a myriad of carefully maintained wilderness-wandering opportunities complete this glorious experience. nationaltrust.org.uk/prior-park 35
theSource
Rub shoulders with history
So, you’ve reached the end of the very first issue 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 here 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
Before all of all the merriment and indulgence, two sparkling events dominate the cultural calendar during November:
Mozartfest
(8 – 16 November)
Bath Film Festival
(25 November – 8 December) Next up we have all manner of festive, Bath-centric fun guaranteed to take everybody all the way into 2014 in fine style:
The magical Bath Christmas Market
(28 November – 15 December) – Gifts galore and inspiration a-plenty – Spectacular Christmas lights: lanterns, processions, exhibitions – Classic Christmas Carols at the Abbey – Entertainment: from traditional dames & panto slap-stick to funky fringe alternatives – Invigorating spas & mineral-rich treatments – Celebrate: a brand new year, a Scottish bard & a whisky tradition
www.romanbaths.co.uk The Roman Baths, Abbey Church Yard, Bath
36
GET THE OFFICIAL
BATH APP
Including delicious deals, special offers and promotions for the Great Bath Feast
THE OFFICIAL BATH APP Alternatively, paper maps and personal advice available at the Visitor Information Centre in Abbey Chambers.
ANDROID
iPHONE