The West Wilts Magazine - July 2022

JULY 2022 // ISSUE 148

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West Wilts The

MAGAZINE

BEST BEER

GARDENS

+ IF OPERA OUTDOOR THEATRE TROWBRIDGE FESTIVAL THE BRADLEY HARE HOMEMADE ICE CREAMS AXFORD INTERIORS

GREAT PLACES TO ENJOY A PINT OUTDOORS

GET Set Set For

Summer 12 PAGES OF ACTIVITIES FOR ALL THE FAMILY

FOOD & DRINK // PUZ ZLES // HOME & GARDENS // HEALTH // COMMENT

EXCEPTIONAL DESIGN | COMPLETE INSTALLATION

5 The Shambles, Bradford on Avon BA15 1JS t 01225 309110

www.bathroomsatno5.co.uk

Welcome

O LISA ROCKLIFFE

Editor e: lisa@wired-publishing.co.uk

JULY 2022 ISSUE 148 Published by Wired Publishing Editor Lisa Rockliffe Contributors Fran Stevens, Phil Rockliffe, Neil Mortimer, Andy Diffey, Adam Jacot De Boinod Advertising Enquiries Andy Diffey e: andy@wired-publishing.co.uk t: 01225 807775 General Enquiries e: info@wired-publishing.co.uk t: 01225 807775 w: wired-publishing.co.uk

rdinarily our July edition would be wall-towall coverage of the upcoming summer holidays, so much so that little else would get much of a look in. However this summer, after two really difficult years for the hospitality industry, we can herald the return of the beer garden and we are celebrating it in all its glory with 14 pages of great pubs to while away a summer’s day (or evening) in our Best Beer Gardens Special starts on p19.

Before those of you who have come to rely on us for ideas on entertaining the kids during the summer holidays panic we still have 12 pages dedicated to family activities in the magazine (and lots more within the listings and local news info too!) starting from p39.

In this issue there are also great recipes from The Food Wife for ice creams you can make at home without faff or fuss (p35) and we meet the chef at the recently renovated Bradley Hare in Maiden Bradley (p32). On the home front I look back on the Gardeners’ World Live Show, Axford Interiors discuss how to bring the light in but the glare out of your home (p60) and lots more besides. Of course we have all our other usual favourites in situ too. Enjoy.

Address 20 Azalea Drive, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 9GG This magazine is printed on paper sourced from sustainable forests.

Please recycle it when you are done, or pass it on!

Front Cover: The Rising Sun, Lacock The publishers shall not be held liable for any loss occasioned by the failure of an advertisement to appear, or any damage or inconvenience caused by errors, omissions or misprints.

Reproduction of this magazine in whole, or in part is strictly prohibited wihout prior permission of the publishers.

Lisa Rockliffe, Editor

Follow us on Twitter... @westwiltsmag Find us on Facebook..wiredpublishing Find an online version of the magazine and lots of extra content on our website.

westwiltsmag.co.uk

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Contents

8

LOCAL LISTINGS What’s on in July

8

LOCAL NEWS IF Opera’s new season begins at the beautiful Belcombe Court Outdoor theatre is coming to Manor Farm in Corsley this August Trowbridge Festival Weekend Fundraiser

14 16 16

FOOD & DRINK Meet the Chef at The Bradley Hare Eat the Seasons Homemade ice cream recipes from The Food Wife

19

32 34 35

FEATURES Beer Gardens Summer Activities

19 39

HOME & GARDEN Garden jobs for July Gardeners’ World Live Axford Interiors explain how to bring the light in but the glare out this summer

52 55

35

60

HEALTH & WELLBEING Bluebird Care expands

66

LEGAL & FINANCIAL Wansbroughs’ rebrand

67

BATH RUGBY Bath bring in new backroom faces

68

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES That’s interesting...

Quiz, wordsearch & sudoku

70 72

COMMENT The Last Word 4 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

74

60

© Catalano

FOR A BEAUTIFUL HOME VISIT OUR HOLT SHOWROOM

Ham Green, Holt, Wiltshire BA14 6PX Tel: 01225 308541 info@formosakbb.co.uk www.formosakbb.co.uk

Pine Ridge Dog Sanctuary Saving stray & unwanted dogs since 1958

Our Bradford on Avon practice has served the community for over 25 years and is home to a team of highly experienced Osteopaths.

OUR TREATMENTS INCLUDE...

ACUPUNCTURE COUNSELLING CRANIAL OSTEOPATHY HOMEOPATHY MASSAGE THERAPY

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APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE:

Monday to Friday 9am - 6pm, Saturdays 9am - 4pm Church Street Practice 15a Church Street Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1LN

Telephone 01225 868282

w: churchstreetpractice.co.uk e: enquiries@churchstreetpractice.co.uk

Pine Ridge Dog Sanctuary is a small independent animal rescue organisation.

We are a non-destruction sanctuary for abandoned and unwanted dogs.

Our dogs are all vet checked, vaccinated, wormed, neutered (if old enough), chipped, and looking for loving new homes

OPEN DAILY BY APPOINTMENT ONLY (Office Hours: 10:00-12:00 & 14:00-16:00)

Pine Ridge Dog Sanctuary, Priory Rd, Ascot, Berks SL5 8RJ

01344 882689 | pineridgedogs@yahoo.co.uk Registered Charity Number 256728

Avalon Interiors Locally Made Furniture Painted, Oak & Pine Furniture Made to order in our own workshop Choice of paint colours, oak finishes & handles Excellent quality & affordably priced lamps, clocks, mirrors, cushions & home accessories

Free Local Delivery ✆ 01373 466414

sales@avaloninteriors.co.uk

www.avaloninteriors.co.uk Also find us on Instagram and Facebook Westway Shopping Centre | Frome | Somerset | BA11 1AL

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JEWELLER & GOLDSMITH

WE BUY

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Instant Payment.

OPEN Wednesday to Friday 10am-4.30pm Saturday Mornings By Appointment Only

f 01225 464013 • nigeldando.co.uk • 11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AY

listings

events

local

JULY 2022

MELKSHAM ASSEMBLY HALL

Market Place, Melksham, SN12 6ES Box Office: 01225 709887 melkshamassemblyhall.com DECEMBER ‘63: O WHAT A NIGHT! 8 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £19 Formerly The New Jersey Boys, this smash hit celebration of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons makes its longawaited return!

DOLLY PARTON: THE RAGS TO RHINESTONES STORY 9 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £18 The UK’s no.1 Dolly tribute Julia Martin enthralls with this meticulous celebration of a true music legend.

JOHN CARPENTER’S: THE THING 29 July, 8pm Tickets: £5 The Assembly Hall Film Club relaunches with a 40th anniversary celebration of John Carpenter’s masterpiece of paranoia and mounting dread…The Thing!

novel was inspired by Keith’s real-life relationship with his autistic son.

ROBINSON STONE 9 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) Join Danny, Dean and Leyna for an intimate evening of original music, traditional melodies and well known tracks from some of their biggest song writing influences.

STEVE BUGEJA: TRIED TO START HIS OWN NICKNAME 16 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) A familiar face on TV, Steve has also hosted the BBC Radio 4 series Economics with Subtitles, and has made numerous appearances on TV shows.

POUND ARTS CENTRE

BELFAST (Cert 12A) 26 July, 11am & 7.30pm Tickets: TBC Kenneth Branagh’s intimate and deeply personal reflection on his childhood experience in 1960’s Northern Ireland focuses on impressionistic nine-year-old Buddy, as he navigates his away towards adulthood during a time of sweeping socio-political change.

KEITH STUART 8 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £10 (Concs £8) Keith Stuart is a local author and journalist. His heart-warming debut

MATTHEW TAYLOR & PETER FRENCH 27 July, 1pm Tickets: £8 Having wowed a packed out audience in October 2021, local musicians Matthew Taylor and Peter French return to the Pound for

Pound Pill, Corsham, SN13 9HX Box Office: 01249 701628 poundarts.org.uk

8 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Steve Bugeja, Pound Arts

another afternoon of spell-binding classical music.

JOHN HEGLEY 29 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) Some mandolin playing, rhyming speech, myths moths, possibly French baroque dancing (for a few): devised for adults, but not unsuitable for the odd nine-year old. No biscuits.

TOWN HALL ARTS

Market Street, Trowbridge BA14 8EQ Tel: 01225 774306 trowbridgetownhall.com MICKELSON 9 July, 8pm Tickets: £8 Scott Mickelson is an artist/producer from San Francisco whose debut album Flickering was on the Grammy ballot for Best Folk Album.

BILLY IN THE LOWGROUND 16 July, 8pm Tickets: £8 Their pedigree has been honed over three decades and you won’t find a more entertaining, foot stomping show around.

Send your event listings to info@wired-publishing.co.uk

* NOT VALID IN CONJUNCTION WITH OTHER OFFERS. VALID BEFORE 7.30PM. EXPIRY DATE 31.08.22. ROAR.

✃ ✃

WWM076

image © Steve Nash

events CATCH THAT BEAST! 23 July, 11am & 1pm Tickets: Adult £10, Child £8 Catch That Beast! is a magical, deliciously silly show about how we interact with wild things and how the youngest among us might bring about change AS YOU LIKE IT 28 July, 7pm Tickets: from £8 A rollicking romp through the Forest of Arden as we celebrate love, life, and human nature.

WILTSHIRE MUSIC CENTRE

Ashley Rd, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1DZ Box Office: 01225 860100 wiltshiremusic.org.uk TROWBRIDGE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 2 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £20 (Concs £11) For their summer concert, Trowbridge Symphony Orchestra find themselves all at sea with a programme of music inspired by rivers and oceans.

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG 16 July, 3pm & 6pm Tickets: £12 (Concs £10) Join the fantastic musical adventure with the Characters Stage School.

Performance takes place at St. Margaret’s Hall.

AMADEUS ORCHESTRA 21 July, 7pm Tickets: £28 (Concs £15) Back for their much-anticipated annual summer concert with three vibrant and colourful works from three great masters of the 19th and 20th centuries.

NEELD ARTS CENTRE

High Street, Chippenham SN15 3ER Tel: 01249 446699 neeld.co.uk WIMBLEDON AFTERNOON FOR THE OVER 60’S 6 July, 2.30pm 10

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Tickets: £3 Watch Wimbledon live on the big screen whilst enjoying some delicious food!

MEATLOUD – BAT OUT OF HADES 15 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £19.50 MeatLoud cover songs from a range of MeatLoaf’s albums. They present a number of his greatest hits, mixed in with Jim Steinman’s songs for Bonnie Tyler and Cher.

THE ATHENAEUM CENTRE

18-20 High St, Warminster BA12 9AE Tel: 01985 213891 theath.org.uk KING RICHARD (Cert 12A) 6 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £5.50 Armed with a clear vision and a brazen 78-page plan Richard Williams (Will Smith) is determined to write his two daughters, Venus and Serena, into the tennis history books.

EDUCATING RITA 21 – 23 July, various times Tickets: £12 A witty yet poignant look at a working-class woman’s attempts to change her social circumstances.

YOU CAN’T GET THERE FROM HERE (Cert 12A) 27 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £5.50 This documentary follows four friends as they undertake the Plymouth to Dakar Challenge in two old Mercedes vans, and arrange to transport prosthetic limbs for a Bristol based charity to Gambia.

FROME MEMORIAL THEATRE

Christchurch St West, Frome, BA11 1EB Tel: 01373 462795 fmt.website BLAKE 9 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £24 Celebrating a new decade together,

Mickelson, Town Hall Arts

Blake have chosen their all-time favourites, creating an extraordinary show that highlights their harmonies better than ever before.

MARTY WILDE 15 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £26 A chance to see live on stage one of the only performing original Rock ‘n’ Roll pioneers in the world today.

BUDDY HOLLY & THE CRICKETERS 16 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £22 This breathtaking show has rock ’n’ rolled audiences across the globe and is guaranteed to have everyone singing along to the music and dancing in the aisles.

CHEESE & GRAIN 5 The Bridge, Frome BA11 1AR Box Office: 01373 455420 cheeseandgrain.com

DAVID OLUSOGA - A HOUSE THROUGH TIME 4 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £18 David is an historian, author, presenter and BAFTA winning film-maker. He presents the long-running BBC history series A House Through Time and wrote and presented the multi-award winning BBC series Britain’s Forgotten Slave Owners.

KRIS BARRAS BAND 8 July, 8pm Tickets: £21.50 One of the UK’s breakout artists over the past few years, they have just finished a UK tour with Black Stone For full listings go to each venue’s website

events and the most in demand G’n’R tribute in the world.

David Olusoga, Cheese & Grain

Cherry, culminating with a show at the Royal Albert Hall.

WILKO JOHNSON + SPECIAL GUEST JOHN OTWAY 9 July, 7pm Tickets: £30.50 Following a remarkable recovery from diagnosis of terminal cancer, Wilko Johnson has enjoyed a rousing return to the live arena.

FROME SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 10 July, 7.30pm Tickets: from £5 This entertaining work is from the height of the jazz and art deco age, with some Basque folk music thrown in for good measure.

STIFF LITTLE FINGERS 11 July, 7.30pm Tickets: £28 The ‘In Your Back yard’ summer tour will see the band kicking off the July leg of their tour at The Cheese & Grain.

GREEN HAZE 15 July, 8pm Tickets: £12.50 Green Haze regularly play to sell-out crowds at some of the biggest and most established venues & festivals.

GUNS ‘N’ ROSES EXPERIENCE 29 July, 8pm Tickets: £15 Guns ‘n’ Roses Experience are the biggest, the best, the most successful 12

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local artists, makers and crafts people, taking place during the Frome Festival. On view will be a variety of beautiful arts and crafts, exhibited in studios, homes and venues in and around Frome. Brochures are available from various local outlets, or online at frome-open-art-trail.co.uk.

THE ORB 30 July, 8pm Tickets: £25 In July 1992 The Orb hit the number one spot in the album charts with the genre-defining album U.F.Orb. This July they will perform the album live, WARMINSTER GARRISON HEALTH, in its entirety, for the first and last time. SPORTS & WELLBEING FAIR 27 July VILLAGE PUMP FREE The Lamb, Mortimer St, Trowbridge The fair, backed by Warminster Town thepumptrowbridge.co.uk Council, takes place at Waterloo Lines camp and is for everyone to attend, DAN WHITEHOUSE both civilian and military. The event 15 July, 7.30pm will be a great fun, family activity Tickets: from £6 during the school summer holidays Five albums in and award-winning and visitors will get the chance to try a singer-songwriter Dan Whitehouse new sport or activity, get physical and continues to renew, reinvent and learn more about the benefits of an reimagine. active, healthy lifestyle. colin.warrington@army.mod.uk WEEKEND FUNDRAISER FOR TROWBRIDGE FESTIVAL 22 - 24 July THE THREE Tickets: Weekend £55, individual HORSESHOES concerts £12 each 55 Frome Road, Bradford-on-Avon A weekend of great music, curated BA15 1LA by the festival team and hosted by Tel: 01225 865876 The Lamb Inn and The Pump in Find them on Facebook Trowbridge. trowbridgefestival.co.uk All gigs are FREE and start at 9pm

THE PRESTBURY SPORTS BAR

ANT TROUBLE 8 July

The Close, Warminster, BA12 9AL prestburysportsbar.com All gigs are FREE!

THE BUCKY RAGE + KIDNEY FLOWERS 9 July

THE REASON 9 July, 8.30pm Performing classic tracks from the 1950s to the present day.

JOHN E VISTIC ROCK N ROLL SOUNDSYSTEM 15 July

OUTATIME: 80s TRIBUTE DUO 23 July, 8.30pm A Bristol based 80’s tribute duo bringing back the feel-good times of this colourful decade.

OTHERS FROME OPEN ARTS TRAIL 2-11 July FREE The Frome Open Art Trail celebrates

SEVERANCE 22 July OMEGA TRIBE + support 23 July GASOLINE BANDITS 24 July SEVERED ILLUSIONS + support 29 July POLEMICS + support 30 July

Send your event listings to info@wired-publishing.co.uk

local news

A SUMMER OF IF OPERA

I

Enjoy beautiful music in the spectacular setting of Belcombe Court this summer.

f Opera (formerly Iford Arts) offers all the ingredients for the perfect summer’s evening this August and September. This season, the critically acclaimed company will be based in the breathtaking grounds of Grade 1 listed Belcombe Court in Bradford on Avon. Audiences are invited to explore the gardens and enjoy a picnic with friends and family before heading into the Saddlespan Theatre for the evening’s performance. Alternatively, you can simply join for the main event and enjoy a drink from the bar serving speciality gin cocktails and prosecco from a selection of small Italian manufacturers.

Belcombe Court stands in 60 acres of formal gardens, parkland and woodland. The gardens blend restored 18th century features rotunda, grotto, ornamental pond - with contemporary additions such as the infinity pool and terrace, set high above the walled garden with stunning views of the valley below.

FROM HEARTBREAK TO HUMOUR, THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Puccini’s La Rondine (‘the swallow’) tells the tale of Magda, who leaves behind the life of a Parisian courtesan to make a new life with Ruggero, the shy country boy with whom she

Beautiful Belcombe Court

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If Opera offers a season of fantastic musical performances in a stunning new setting

"Audiences are invited to enjoy a picnic before heading into the Saddlespan Theatre for the evening’s performance." falls in love. The music is irresistibly romantic and exquisitely moving, with waltzes, foxtrots, and soaring melodies, but can the love affair last?

La Rondine performances take place on 26 & 29 August, and 1 & 3 September.

Donizetti’s Rita could not be more different... As the opera opens the tyrannical wife of Peppe is shocked by the return of her former husband Gasparo whom she thought was dead (in fact he had run away to escape her tyranny). Gasparo is back to collect Rita’s death certificate so he can remarry – because he, in turn, thought she had died. Peppe sees that Gasparo’s return might provide the perfect opportunity for him to escape.

Glittering with Donizetti’s trademark vivacity and wit, it’s no surprise Rita continues to be so popular.

Il segreto di Susanna (Susanna’s Secret) is a more innocent comedy. Conte Gil returns home to the smell of tobacco and suspects his beautiful wife Susanna has a lover. The

outrageous ways in which Gil seeks to uncover the truth, while Susanna tries desperately to conceal her real secret, produce a riotous evening suffused with gorgeous music.

Double Bill: Rita & Il segreto di Susanna performances take place on 27 & 31 August.

AN INTERACTIVE FAMILY SHOW The Man in the Moon takes audiences on a whistle-stop tour through space and time marvelling at human invention from the Stone Age through to the present day, while also exploring our impact on the planet and inspiring us to do our bit to protect it. Explore the gardens before the show and get stuck into the free prop-making workshops where you can make your own time-machine and goggles.

The Man in the Moon performances take place on Sunday 28 August.

Discover more events and the full programme on the website.

• ifopera.com

HIROKO SHERWIN Japanese Artist

SONGS OF NATURE An Exhibition of Painting and Collage 9th – 21st August, 11am – 5pm

at 44AD artspace, 4 Abbey Street, Bath BA1 1NN www.44ad.net hirokosherwin@btinternet.com | www.hirokosherwin.co.uk

local news

OPEN AIR THEATRE AT MANOR FARM

E

very summer Manor Farm in Corsley opens its gates for everyone to enjoy outdoor theatre in the wonderful grounds of this Elizabethan manor. This year, renowned outdoor theatre company Illyria are returning to Manor Farm.

The company is celebrating its Enjoy great outdoor theatre in the beautiful grounds of Manor Farm

30th birthday this year and to commemorate it will be returning to the first ever children’s show it toured with: J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan.

her. So who can blame her when she agrees to fly away to the idyllic Neverland with him? But is Neverland as perfect as it seems? Or will the evil Captain Hook and his band of pirates kill Peter and rule over it themselves?

Wendy Darling is certain she saw the face of a boy at her bedroom window 3 floors up – yet no-one believes The performance takes place on Saturday 6 August; the bar will be open and picnics are welcome – gates open at 5pm and the performance starts at 6.30pm. All profits will be donated to Frome and Warminster Food Banks and YMCA Mendip Youth Section. Tickets are £16 for adults and £10 for children.

• theelizabethanevening.com

“Peter Pan” is presented by arrangement with Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity and Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. (www.concordtheatricals.co.uk)

TROWBRIDGE FESTIVAL WEEKEND FUNDRAISER COMING THIS JULY

E

veryone remembers the old Village Pump Festival.

Originally in Farleigh Hungerford, it switched to Westbury in its latter years before coming to an abrupt end in 2016. Then in 2018 the next generation kickstarted the festival again back at the original site which was a spectacular success.

This year festival organisers are making a return to their roots, hosting a weekend of live music from 22 - 24 July at The Lamb Inn & The Pump in Trowbridge, with proceeds going towards running next year’s festival, which will make its debut in luscious green fields just outside Trowbridge, on a new purpose-built site.

The line-up includes a mixture of local acts and some of the most exciting national acts including The Lost Trades, The Model Folk, and supergroup the Rob Lear Band - for the full line up see the website or go to fb.com/TrowbridgeFestival.

Tickets are on sale now via the website with individual concerts priced at £12 and the option to purchase a full weekend ticket for £55 (there are five main concerts across the weekend as well as a club stage set up in the pub’s skittle alley)!

It promises to be a weekend full of exciting and varied artists. Other entertainment - including open mic sessions - are planned, so bring your instruments!

Acts like The Model Folk will be appearing at the weekend fundraiser

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• trowbridgefestival.co.uk

Artisan Grocery & Coffee Shop at Bradford On Avon Marina

Come and find us for great quality coffee, tasty food and local produce all of which comes from no further than 30 miles from the Pantry.

Bradford on Avon Marina, Trowbridge Rd, Bradford on Avon BA15 1UD 07919 910862 // noahspantry.co.uk //

fi

A quintessentially English country pub and restaurant with stunning views set in 5 acres of Wiltshire countryside.

Serving delicious fresh produce and locally sourced food and drink including real ales from local breweries.

Families, walkers, cyclists, horses and their riders, well behaved doggies and drinkers welcome!

FARMHOUSE KITCHEN | DINING PODS | SUNSET DECK LOCAL REAL ALES | CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA| 200-SEATER GARDEN

32 Bowden Hill, Lacock, Chippenham, Wilts SN15 2PP 01249 730363 | hello@risingsunlacock.co.uk | risingsunlacock.co.uk

food & drink

BEST BEER

GARDENS

HERE ARE SOME GREAT PLACES TO ENJOY A PINT, AND MAYBE A LITTLE SOMETHING TO EAT, OUTDOORS THIS SUMMER!

The Rising Sun, Lacock offers incredible views from its sunset deck

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food & drink

THE BREWERY INN

Seend Cleeve, Seend The Brewery Inn sits at the centre of Seend Cleeve and is all you could want in a village local. In the warmer months its large garden and famous ‘wacky’ cider make it a great place to while away a balmy summer's evening.

They serve delicious traditional pub food and host incredible pop-up kitchens every Monday. Lunches include simple but tasty filled jacket potatoes, toasted ciabattas and pub classics like ham, egg and chips and ploughman’s boards. And for dinner look no further than their fantastic range of burgers – there’s a flavour for everyone! And if you are celebrating, they have some fab fully heated outdoor dining pods available for hire too.

01380 828463 | fb.com/breweryinnseend

THE DOG & FOX INN

33 Ashley Road, Bradford on Avon The Hilton family took the helm at the well-known Dog and Fox Inn in Bradford on Avon in 2014. They have since built it into a popular destination for many locals and

visitors, all of whom enjoy the pub they have created.

All are welcome, whether they just want to pop in for ‘a swift one’ while walking the dog, to sit down and enjoy drinks with friends or eat a good meal with a drink in a relaxing atmosphere. Delicious, freshly cooked food is available Thursday to Saturday (roasts are available every Sunday too) to eat in or takeaway, and there’s also a pizza oven that gets fired up on sunny weekend days, so you can kick back and relax in the lovely garden, complete with play area for the kids, right on the edge of beautiful Wiltshire countryside.

01225 832137 | dogandfoxinn.com

“This family-friendly pub in Southwick is a popular family dining destination.” Farmhouse Inn

soak up some sun and the dedicated children’s menu will ensure your little ones eat well. The pub, which has a 5* Scores On The Doors rating from Wiltshire Council, is open daily for snacks, lunch and dinner, serving a wide range of homecooked meals and using local produce wherever possible. The specials board is a firm favourite with regulars and changes daily giving you the perfect excuse to return again and again! If you fancy pushing the boat out their juicy steaks, served on a hot lava stone, are fantastic too! With their dedicated function room and large car park, The Farmhouse is also an ideal venue to host a party, celebration or function – call and speak to Janet, their events co-ordinator – for more information.

01225 764366 | farmhousesouthwick.co.uk

FARMHOUSE INN

Frome Road, Southwick This family-friendly pub in Southwick is a popular family dining destination.

There is a large garden in which to

Soak up some rays in The George's sunny courtyard

THE GEORGE

67 Woolley Street, Bradford on Avon The George in Bradford on Avon is the perfect place to visit when you want some great tasting food.

As well as a lovely interior and open kitchen, it also has a sunny courtyard garden that’s ideal for catching some rays on a warm afternoon. It also boasts a secret summerhouse, and, if the nights get a little cool, they have snuggle throws and burners to keep you warm.

The Dog & Fox has a lovely town meets country feel

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The George has been awarded 2 AA Rosettes for its food and head chef Alex Venables specialises in

The Brewery Inn SEEND CLEEVE

Where town meets beautiful countryside

A proper village pub with log fires, real ales, lagers and a wide range of ciders, including our famous ‘wacky cider’.

We serve traditional homecooked food which can be enjoyed inside, in our large garden or in our fully heated outdoor pods!

We’re dog friendly too!

OUTDOOR DINING PODS

Advanced booking is advised!

Open Tuesday to Sunday

Available To Hire This Summer!

01380 828463 | Seend Cleeve, Wiltshire. SN12 6PX

We offer delicious food to eat in/takeaway from Thursday to Saturday and delicious roasts every Sunday.

33 Ashley Road, Bradford on Avon BA15 1RT

fi

01225 862137 | dogandfoxinn.com | ft

“Fabulous food, great service, quirky decor & friendly staff. What more do you need?”

Online Review

The George is the perfect place to visit for local ales, top quality wines & fantastic food from our award-winning chef Alex Venables.

THURSDAY SUPPER CLUB 28th July, 4 Courses £35

AFTERNOON TEAS £22pp

Fridays & Saturdays 2.30-3pm, Booking essential.

Eat at Home version available only £18.50pp, (min 2 persons)

DAILY SET MENU

2 Courses £19.95, 3 Courses £23.95 Available Monday to Friday

OPEN DAILY FROM 9.30AM For Coffee, Cake & Breakfast!

01225 865650 | 67 Woolley St, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1AQ | thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk

food & drink producing delicious seasonal dishes using great local meat and game, with fish coming from Brixham. To accompany your meal they have a carefully selected wine list, lovely local ales and a wide range of spirits too – including lots and lots of gins!

The George hosts a 'Thursday Supper Club' on the last Thursday of each month with four courses for £35, booking is essential. Alternatively make the most of a sunny Friday or Saturday afternoon and treat yourself and a loved one to a delicious afternoon tea (£22 per person – booking essential). They also offer an eat-at-home version, packed in a lovely display box and perfect for a picnic, costing £18.50pp, (minimum of two persons).

01225 865650 | thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk

THE GEORGE & DRAGON

High Street, Rowde The George & Dragon is a 16th century coaching inn that combines modern day style with bundles of country character. Their restaurant specialises in seafood, delivered straight from St Mawes in Cornwall, and offers a full a la carte menu using locally sourced produce. The George & Dragon offers award-winning food and is complemented in many food guides. It has been awarded 2 AA rosettes and an Egon Ronay Star. They have a variety of heated outdoors spaces including two new private al fresco tables, the Potting Shed holds up to 5 people and the Pavilion up to 10; with hot water bottles and blankets at the ready for

"The George & Dragon is a 16th century coaching inn that combines modern day style with bundles of country character."

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any colder evenings. You could also treat yourself to an overnight stay in one of their rooms, prices from £75 per night.

01380 723053 | thegeorgeanddragonrowde.co.uk

THE LONGS

High Street, Steeple Ashton If you’re taking a trip to the countryside or seeking a rest point on your walk or bike ride, this hidden gem might be for you. The Longs at Steeple Ashton offers a laid-back, al fresco dining experience with food served from their outside Garden Kitchen. Just 30 minutes from Bath, the ever-changing gastro-style menu features freshly baked pizzas from their wood-fired oven, grilled meats and a selection of sides. On arrival, you’ll have the chance to The New Inn is a great place for family dining or romantic evening meals

At The Longs you can dine under wooden pergolas

unwind in deckchairs, dine under wooden pergolas or meander around a landscaped lawn. The bar has everything you might expect from a well-stocked country pub including draft beer, IPA, a selection of local ciders, fine wines and fizz.

At dusk the garden is warmed by a crackling fire pit, plentiful heaters and a buzzing atmosphere – you’ll never want to leave!

01380 870245 | longssteepleashton.co.uk

THE NEW INN

80 Lower Westwood, Bradford on Avon Set in beautiful Westwood, ThNew Inn is a great place for family dining or romantic evening meals. You can dine al fresco in their sun-trapped secluded beer garden on a warm day, or inside enjoy the beautiful

George & Dragon The

Rowde

Sunday Lunch

3 Course Set Menu

“An unexpected gem! Fantastic food. Wonderfully imaginative garden seating. Cute and cosy pub, can’t wait to go back!”

£28.50pp

Famous for seafood, delivered straight from Cornwall. Now taking bookings for Alfresco dining on our heated terrace! Our private Potting Shed holds up to 5 & The Pavilion up to 10 High Street, Rowde, Devizes SN10 2PN Telephone: 01380 723053 • thegeorgeanddragonrowde.co.uk •

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food & drink wooden beams and relaxing atmosphere. They have a great selection of wines, beers, ciders and ales from Plain Ales and Otter Brewery. The menu is full of pub classics such as prawn cocktail, homemade burgers and pies, fish and chips, Fowey Mussels, fresh fish served Wednesday to Saturday and traditional Sunday roasts are on offer every weekend - dogs are welcome.

The Old Ham Tree is a great place to enjoy a Wadworth pint and a juicy burger

The New Inn is a great stop off point on a day out, with interesting routes for walks exploring the beautiful countryside. Westwood Manor, Iford Manor and Downside Nurseries are only a few minutes away. behind the bar… after all, they aim 01225 863123 | thenewinnwestwood.co.uk for everyone who enters The Old Bear Inn to leave as a friend. The The Old Bear has a beautiful pub has plenty of free parking on vine-covered terrace site, a beautiful vine-covered terrace and two beautiful gardens for you to enjoying the fantastic sunsets.

nice glass roof too! The extensive planting makes the courtyard feel like a tranquil haven.

The Old Bell is also open for breakfast from 8am and serves food all day until 9pm. And with lots of 01225 782487 | fb.com/TheOldBearInn.Staverton spaces available for private events, it’s a great place to host a party too!

01985 216611 | oldbellwarminster.co.uk "The Old Bell offers a lovely secluded OLD HAM TREE courtyard where you can THE Ham Green, Holt sit outside and drink or In pretty Holt village landlords dine in the sunshine" Steph and Sam run a pub that

THE OLD BELL THE OLD BEAR INN

Staverton, Trowbridge Whether you’re a local, a canal boater or just a passer-by, everyone is welcome at The Old Bear Inn – that includes your furry friends – they might even give your dog more attention to start with but they promise to serve humans too! You will be treated to locallysourced homecooked food and a wide selection of drinks, including an obsessive quantity of gin.

You’ll find the staff celebrating with customers and having a laugh 24 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

42 Market Place, Warminster Now open under the new management of Wiltshire Inns, visitors to The Old Bell can pop in and enjoy a traditional pub serving mouth-watering, authentic Thai cuisine and pub classics every day of the week. They serve barista coffees and other hot drinks, real ales, lagers, ciders and a great range of wines too.

offers a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and tasty, fresh good value food. The Old Ham Tree, which has recently enjoyed a refurb inside and out, is a Wadworth pub, so you can expect to find a tasty pint. If the weather is kind you can also soak up some rays in the pretty garden, it gets the sun from late morning all the way into the evening.

They have a great selection of homecooked food available and Just a few steps away from the are particularly well known for Market Place, The Old Bell offers a their burgers and pies. If you are lovely secluded courtyard where watching the pennies, their smaller you can sit outside and drink or dine portions start from just £7 for a main in the sunshine – and if the weather course, and on a Sunday you can is a little too English (!) there’s a enjoy the likes of roast beef and

The

Farmhouse

New Inn

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

THE

INN

W E S T W O O D

Enjoy our sunny beer garden or we can offer our Gazebo for groups of up to 10 people for a private dinner.

Dogs welcome.

Adam, Janet and all the staff look forward to welcoming you to The Farmhouse.

We offer tasty homecooked food, superb real ales & fine wines in stylish, comfortable surroundings.

We’re an ideal venue for weddings & events with our large, beautifully-appointed function room.

Open Wednesday to Saturday 12-3pm & 6-10pm, Sunday 12-4pm

Frome Road, Southwick, Nr Trowbridge BA14 9QD t 01225 764366 e the.farmhouse@btconnect.com www.farmhousesouthwick.co.uk

80 Lower Westwood, Bradford on Avon BA15 2AE 01225 863123 • info@thenewinnwestwood.co.uk

www.thenewinnwestwood.co.uk

FRIENDLY VILLAGE PUB WITH GOOD WINES, CASK ALES, HOME COOKED LOCALLY SOURCED FOOD AND TERRACED GARDEN!

10% OF ALL MAIN MEALS Wednesdays & Thursdays ELVIS TRIBUTE NIGHT Saturday 9 July, Tickets £10 Ticket includes free first pint or glass of wine on arrival! Contact bar for tickets.

OUR FAMOUS OLD BEAR BURGER!

GIN COLLECTION ASK US FOR THE MENU

SUNDAY LUNCHES BOOKING RECOMMENDED!

MONTHLY QUIZ NIGHT 6 JULY, £1 ENTRY, TEAMS OF 6

Food Served Tuesday 5-8pm, Wednesday to Saturday 12-8pm, Sunday 12-7pm Staverton, Trowbridge BA14 6PB | 01225 782487 | enquiries@theoldbearstaverton.co.uk | Find us on Facebook

food & drink Yorkshire puddings from only £8.50!

They also have a good selection of veggie and vegan options available and offer a gluten free menu too.

The Rising Sun in Lacock's garden seats up to 200 people!

01225 782581 | theoldhamtree.com

RISING SUN LACOCK

32 Bowden Hill, Lacock The Rising Sun pub and rooms in Lacock is an old, stone-built country pub with a farmhouse kitchen, original flagstone floors and a huge 5-acre garden.

Set on top of a hill, it has the most amazing 200-seater garden, a children’s play area and a sunset deck with scenic views over the Wiltshire countryside; the sunsets are magical! ales, local gins (49 of them!) and fine wines.

You’ll always find something delicious to eat or drink at The Swan, whether you’re looking for traditional As we move into summer, you can pub classics or an authentic Thai head to The Rising Sun for great live experience. They are open for music from popular local bands. breakfast, lunch and dinner, offer a Not only that but as a hub of the Sunday carvery and are also a great community you can enjoy regular option for a coffee, or a light snack events like raffles and pub quizzes. If and a glass of wine or pint of local you’re stopping for a bite to eat the ale. In the summertime their terrace, You can be assured of a warm menu is full of proper pub classics, right next to the River Avon, offers welcome from the team and the freshly prepared and locally sourced. a relaxing atmosphere in which to most delicious fresh produce, locally If you love hearty pub fare at good enjoy a cold drink or al fresco dining. sourced food and drink served in value prices, this is the place for you! the restaurant, conservatory and 01225 776545 | therisingsun-northbradley.co.uk Live music fans flock to The Swan’s garden areas. As a freehouse they Cellar Bar for its renowned live "In the summertime their music nights, with folk, blues and are also able to serve fantastic real terrace offers a relaxing ales from local breweries. even Sea Shanty sessions!

The Rising Sun also boasts cosy, weatherproof dining pods. With space for up to 10 diners your group can enjoy the views for lunch or dinner from the restaurant menu whatever the weather! To book email hello@risingsunlacock.co.uk or call 01249 730363.

Families, walkers, cyclists, horses and their riders, well behaved doggies and drinkers are all very welcome!

01249 730363 | risingsunlacock.co.uk

THE RISING SUN

61 Woodmarsh, North Bradley, Trowbridge Lyn & Andy Hobbs, welcome you to the Rising Sun. A traditional English pub, it aims to be the best local around. It offers delicious, classic British food complemented by a great range of well-kept traditional 26 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

atmosphere in which to 01225 868686 | theswanbradford.co.uk enjoy a cold drink or al SOMERSET ARMS fresco dining." The Swan Hotel THE High Street, Semington THE SWAN HOTEL

1 Church Street, Bradford on Avon This renowned Bradford on Avon hotel is open all year round – for visitors they have stylish, well-appointed town centre accommodation and for locals there is a great pub, tasty food and the option to enjoy some top live music too.

The Somerset Arms is a popular, family-run, village pub at the heart of The Somerset Arms is just off the canal

• Wadworth Real Ales • Covered & Heated Beer Garden • Takeaway service • Children & Dog Friendly • Gluten Free & Coeliac Menu Available • Large Car Park • Homemade Smaller Portions from £7.50 • B&B Accommodation

Please call us on 01225 782581 or book online OPEN: Wed - Sat 12-10pm, Sun 12-4.30pm FOOD SERVED: Wed - Sat 12-2.30pm & 5.30-8pm, Sun 12-3pm

01225 782 581 • theoldhamtree@gmail.com • theoldhamtree.co.uk • HAM GREEN, HOLT, TROWBRIDGE BA14 6PY

The Three Daggers

The Three Daggers is an award-winning, great British inn - an exceptional spot to eat, sleep & unwind.

PUB | FARM SHOP | RESTAURANT | INN Brewery bar available for private hire Westbury Road, Edington, Wiltshire BA13 4PG 01380 830 940 | threedaggers.co.uk

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food & drink the local community. This wonderful country venue is ideally situated just a couple of minutes off the Kennet & Avon canal, making it an ideal stopping off point on a family day out this summer. The pub offers a largely seasonal menu and their chefs cook everything to order from fresh. There is a dedicated kids menu to cater for little ones and there are midweek dining offers available for those watching the pennies. On warm days you can watch the world go by outside the front among the summer planters and hanging baskets and there is a sunny gravel garden at the back with a soon to be ready pizza oven that they will be firing up over the summer! There will also be live bands performing in the garden in the coming months too see their Facebook page for details!

01380 870067 | somersetarms.co.uk

THREE DAGGERS

47 Westbury Road, Edington With a pub, inn, farm shop and microbrewery the Three Daggers is well worth the trip over to Edington near Westbury. Holding two AA rosettes, it was the AA Pub of the Year England 2019 – 2020.

The pub offers a warm welcome and its good-sized beer garden overlooks a children’s play area and gives far-reaching views of rolling Wiltshire fields.

In the kitchen, executive chef James Graham champions both local The Three Daggers' Woodshed

28 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

The Three Horshoes in Chapmanslade has a garden with stunning views of Cley Hill and the Longleat estate

producers and seasonal cooking to create stunning modern British dishes. The pub’s Woodshed - open at weekends throughout the summer - offers sourdough pizzas, salads and beers from its outside kitchen and bar. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are always available, along with a children’s menu.

If you’re using the pub as a stop off on a family day out, the famous Westbury White Horse is a threemile walk away whilst Edington also lies on the Ridgeway trail, with lots of footpaths to explore.

01380 830940 | threedaggers.co.uk

THREE HORSESHOES

Chapmanslade, nr Westbury The Three Horseshoes is a charming country pub in the heart of the beautiful village of Chapmanslade between Frome and Westbury.

The garden offers stunning views through the valleys of Cley Hill and Longleat and make it well worth a visit on a hot summer’s day. The pub is a popular for locals as well being a destination pub and it also lends itself perfectly to hosting private parties.

Over the years, this freehouse has gained an impressive reputation for its freshly cooked food, carefully selected range of beers and wines and its friendly, efficient service.

Their burgers are a real summertime treat, choose from a classic beefburger, pulled pork, veggie, chicken and more. All come with a fresh bistro salad and rosemary chips - delicious with a cold beer and starting from just £12.95!

01373 832211 | threehorseshoes.uk.com

"The Three Horseshoes in Bradford on Avon is this year's CAMRA Rural Pub of the Year" THE THREE HORSESHOES

55 Frome Rd, Bradford-on-Avon In Bradford on Avon, right next to the train station, sits The Three Horseshoes pub, this year’s CAMRA Rural Pub of the Year! Everyone and anyone is welcome to this eclectic boozer, and it offers a superb range of real ales and ciders in addition to the usual lagers, spirits and mixers you expect. It shows live sport on big screens and has loads of outdoor

LYN & ANDY HOBBS WELCOME YOU TO THE RISING SUN We are a traditional country pub offering tasty homemade food, real ales & ciders

REGULAR LIVE MUSIC AND EVENTS! • Beer garden • Homemade food served daily • Local real ales & ciders • Gluten free menu • Steak deal • Traditional Sunday roast • Takeaways • Live music • Large car park • Open 7 days a week 61 Woodmarsh, North Bradley, Trowbridge BA14 0SB 01225 776545 therisingsun-northbradley.co.uk

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THE

SOMERSET ARMS

HIGH ST, SEMINGTON

Enjoy a refreshing drink in our beer garden with spectacular views over Longleat & Cley Hill We serve food 7 days a week and have something for everyone, whether you are looking for a simple fresh pub lunch or an evening meal for a special occasion.

Call to reserve your spot or pop on over - we have lots of seating inside and out!

HOMEMADE BURGERS Whether it’s over drinks or our tasty pub classics, The Somerset Arms can offer a relaxed pub atmosphere to complement your time with family and friends.

- GREAT FOOD - LOCAL BEERS - 2 MIN WALK FROM CANAL - OUTSIDE SEATING e somersetarms1@gmail.com | t 01380 870067

w www.somersetarms.co.uk

LOADS OF FLAVOURS TO CHOOSE FROM, ALL SERVED WITH BISTRO SALAD & ROSEMARY CHIPS FROM £12.95

01373 832211 threehorseshoes.uk.com e: info@threehorseshoes.uk.com

68 High Street, Chapmanslade, Westbury BA13 4AN

seating that makes it an ideal venue for meeting up with friends on a warm summer’s evening.

reviewer said, “Fantastic proper pub, loved it, very welcoming, friendly staff and locals” Sums it up rather nicely.

The main draw of The ‘Shoes though is its unrivalled reputation for fantastic live music. Over the coming weeks you can see more than 20 bands playing live, including Ant Trouble, The Bucky Rage, John E Vistic Rock n Roll Soundsystem, Severance, Gasoline Bandits, Polemics and many more – see our listings pages for the full line up or call the pub direct. Pay a visit to their Facebook page and you’ll see from the reviews what a following it has. As one recent

01225 865876 | Find them on Facebook

large sunny deck is seriously comfy, ideal for when you want to decamp for an afternoon!

The Westbrook offers great food; keeping the kids happy doesn’t THE WESTBROOK mean compromising on eating Westbrook Road, Bromham well here. They also have a great If you have young children, you selection of children's meals with simply won’t find a better place to homemade and healthier options as take them than The Westbrook. With well as nice touches like children’s its large garden and huge array of cutlery, a simple idea so often children’s play equipment, little ones overlooked. Sundays are hugely can let off steam whilst you relax popular too, with roasts from with a glass of something chilled. £13.50pp – booking advised!

01380 850418 | westbrookbromham.co.uk They also have a fun bouncy castle free to use for all young visitors all "its garden was recently summer (weather dependent)! Their

voted the Best Beer Garden in Wiltshire in a Wiltshire Times poll" Wiltshire Yeoman

WILTSHIRE YEOMAN

Chilmark Road, Trowbridge Situated on the Broadmead estate in Trowbridge, this beautiful 18th century converted farmhouse is a vibrant and relaxed place to come and eat and drink with friends and family in the summertime; its garden was recently voted the Best Beer Garden in Wiltshire in a Wiltshire Times poll.

The award-winning Wiltshire Yeoman garden

The Westbrook has a free bouncy castle on sunny days

30 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

At this family and dog-friendly establishment you’ll find great value traditional pub food, a variety of local ales and lots of communitybased fixtures, including darts, quiz nights, live music events and more. The award-winning garden is large and open so you can soak up the sun and there is also a great children’s play area including a swing set, slide and playhouse! Their children’s menu is also great value, with mains from just £4.50! And for the grown ups? From Wednesday to Saturday you can enjoy a 2 course lunch for just £12 (12-2pm).

01225 765370 | thewiltshireyeoman.co.uk

A warm welcome awaits you, your family & your dog at

THE WILTSHIRE YEOMAN Serving local ales, delicious home cooked breakfasts and traditional Sunday lunches.

Why not try our popular two-course lunch from £12pp.

For our latest events, including live bands, please see our Facebook page or website.

Tel 01225 765370

Chilmark Road, Trowbridge, BA14 9DD

THE

WESTBROOK

Bromham, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2EE

tel 01380 850418

www.westbrookbromham.co.uk

FREE BOUNCY CASTLE ON SUNNY DAYS ALL SUMMER! Kevin & Louise invite you to visit their award-winning pub The Westbrook.

The menu is bursting with superb value traditional pub classics and top notch specials. We also offer vegan, vegetarians and gluten free options.

• FRESHLY COOKED FOOD • DAILY SPECIALS • LARGE GARDEN • CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA & DEDICATED MENU • REAL ALES • CAR PARK

OPEN WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY

food & drink

MEET THE CHEF

NYE SMITH, head chef at The Bradley Hare in Maiden Bradley, talks about Tamworth pigs, working in Paris and cooking T-bone steaks for friends.

What was your first job in catering?

My first job was at St. John’s in London as a chef de partie.

Nye Smith

Where have you worked previously?

I've done all sorts! I really enjoyed the time I worked overseas - I spent four years in Paris as head chef at Yard. The restaurant was awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand for three consecutive years and I was awarded the Medaille de la Ville de Paris for services to bistronomie.

What is your personal favourite dish from your menu?

I don’t do favourites but if I was eating tonight, I’d order our salt ling brandade and then lamb cutlets with violet artichoke.

What is the most memorable event you have cooked for?

Our landlord Sebastian’s 40th birthday, hands down. It was a day to remember!

drink at least ½ a pint of raw milk a day, it does wonders.

Which local pubs and restaurants do you like visiting?

With a young family to look after I very rarely eat out these days if I'm honest but Rye bakery in Frome is excellent at what they do.

Guilty pleasure?

Toploader's Dancing In The Moonlight played at high volume...

Your favourite kitchen gadget?

The smallest cake skewer available.

Indispensable.

To book a table at The Bradley Hare call 01985 801018.

When you cook for friends, what’s • thebradleyhare.co.uk on the menu?

"We get Tamworth I buy one T-bone per 2 people with pigs from Caroline green salad. My wife often makes an Wheatley-Hubbard's excellent chocolate cake.

Boyton Farm just a Crab, radish & lovage on seeded rye

32

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

What is your favourite tipple?

No tipple for me. I make sure to

few miles down the road"

Food image © Jake Eastham, courtesy of Robert Welch Designs

Where do you source your produce and do you have any favourite local suppliers?

We get Tamworth pigs from Caroline Wheatley-Hubbard's Boyton Farm just a few miles down the road and 1 to 2 year old Herdwicks from Jake Eastham, who's a photographer-turned-smallholder.

They are both excellent producers!

A traditional village pub with rooms serving local beers, eclectic wines and exceptional seasonal food.

Church Street, Maiden Bradley, BA12 7HW • reception@thebradleyhare.co.uk • 01985 801018 • thebradleyhare.co.uk

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Beanacre, Nr Melksham Wiltshire SN12 7PU

tel 01225 703700

Enjoy a fabulous Sunday lunch Served every Sunday 12noon - 2.30pm

Our Sunday lunch menu is carefully prepared using local suppliers and home grown vegetables and herbs from our kitchen garden Private Dining also available | Booking recommended

Delicious afternoon teas served daily

reception@beechfieldhouse.co.uk

beechfieldhouse.co.uk

seasons

food & drink

eat the

Keeping you in the know as to what is coming into season each month is NEIL MORTIMER from Lovejoys Wholesale...

T

he choice available when it comes to homegrown fruit and vegetables this month are the best ever, with so many summer fruits and veg from courgettes, runner beans, rainbow chard and tender stem, to blueberries, raspberries and gooseberries. In fact you can nearly say everything we produce in this country is available in July.

eyes on it rather than buying over colourful and lush in July. It should the phone. By going to the market be full of fruit and vegetables to harvest and even edible flowers (our we are one of the first to know

“If you can grow any of your own produce this is the most exciting month with so much happening in the garden. It should look at its most colourful and lush in July” granddaughters love these, they say “Let’s take some for Mummy’s gin and tonic!”

If you can grow any of your own A couple of jobs to keep an eye on, produce this is the most exciting month with so much happening in keep earthing up the main crop the garden. It should look at its most potatoes around the base of the stem to stop the tubers going green and its not too late to sow another crop of carrots, radishes and lettuce. Do stay on top of the watering and look out for any flagging plants in the heat, especially those in containers and greenhouses, they can need watering once a day in the summer.

when the first deliveries of new season crops are on their way, or an unusual fruit like white strawberries make a one off appearance.

When I was a boy (I sound SO OLD)there must have been 20+ different stands and businesses in Bristol Fruit Market and now we only have six left. There still is a strong retail business in Bristol and they buy from the market. Despite competition from supermarkets this strong retail trade keeps the markets going all around the country and does for cities what farm shops so for the smaller towns and villages in more rural areas As usual email me with any questions!

Neil neil@lovejoyswholesale.com

Something I don’t usually talk about and should to is the @lovejoysuk wholesale fruit market and unlike @lovejoysuk many other hospitality food suppliers we are possibly the only • lovejoyswholesale.com people who visit the market twice weekly, getting up at 3.30am so that we can buy our produce by getting 34 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

HOMEMADE ICE CREAMS

recipes

This month FRAN STEVENS, aka The Food Wife, shows you how to make some delicious, no-fuss, ice creams to enjoy with family and friends!

I still get a bit excited at the thought of a Vienetta. The pang of nostalgia when I see them still for sale in the supermarket. Yet I can’t remember the last time I actually bought one.

This, however, is a grown-up version featuring meringue, strawberries and cream it has to be called an Eton Mess!

Ideally make this the day before you intend to devour it.

Ingredients 300ml double cream 20ml elderflower liqueur (or you could use rum/vodka) 8 (shop bought) meringue nests 100g white chocolate chips 350g (frozen is fine) strawberries, blitzed into a sauce and passed through a sieve to remove the seeds Chocolate covered strawberries to serve (see last month’s recipes!)

Method Whip the cream and alcohol together until you have semi-firm peaks.

Crush the meringues and sprinkle into the cream and add the chocolate chips. Stir through.

✃

Finally add four or five tablespoons of the strawberry sauce and lightly fold the mix so there are streaks of pink.

ETON MESS ICE CREAM SLICE Serves 6

Pour into a lined loaf tin (cling film or I used a loaf tin liner), and then wrap securely with tin foil. Transfer to the freezer and freeze overnight until solid.

When ready to serve, unwrap and cut slices, drizzle with the remaining strawberry sauce and, if you like, garnish with a couple of (chocolate dipped) strawberries.

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 35

recipes You will need a sealable tub large enough to hold approx 1.5-2L (or split into two smaller tubs).

Four ingredients (if you use shopbought curd) and within a few hours you have delicious ice cream. Perfect served in a cone or as part of a dessert it’s must for the summer!

Ingredients 600ml double cream 397g condensed milk 40ml Limoncello/vodka 400g lemon curd (shop-bought or homemade) Method Whisk together the cream, condensed milk and alcohol.

NO-CHURN biscoff ICE CREAM Makes 1.5 - 2L You will need a sealable tub large enough to hold approx 1.5-2L (or split into two smaller tubs).

Beat until you have reached semifirm peaks. create a ripple.

Pour into your container(s) and seal tightly. Freeze overnight. Remove from the freezer five minutes before serving.

NO-CHURN LEMON CURD ICE CREAM

I had some very happy boys over at Food Wife HQ when they had this Makes 1.5 - 2L for pudding one evening - it is so delicious! What’s more, it’s a no-churn recipe so it’s really simple to put together too.

If the lemon curd is very stiff, put into a microwaveable bowl and heat for 20 seconds to loosen it slightly. Fold through the cream to create swirls and ripples of curd.

Pour into your container(s) and seal tightly. Freeze overnight. Remove from the freezer five minutes before serving.

• thefoodwife.co.uk

Ingredients: 600ml double cream 397g condensed milk 40ml vodka/rum 400g smooth biscuit spread (microwaved for approx 40 seconds until runny and then left a couple of minutes to cool) Method Whisk together the cream, alcohol and condensed milk and beat until you have reached semi-firm peaks.

36 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

✃

Pour in the cooled but runny biscuit spread, and lightly fold through to

Bath & Borders CAMRA Country Pub of the Year 2022

REAL ALES & LIVE MUSIC From leather jackets to suits, workboots to shiny shoes & mohicans to combovers, you’ll get a warm friendly welcome at The Three Horseshoes.

LIVE MUSIC

EVERY FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY

Real Ales | Beer Garden | Pub Games Real Log Fires | Parking Next to Bradford on Avon Train Station Frome Road, Bradford On Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1LA

Telephone 01225 865876 Find us on Facebook

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Multi-Award-Winning Family Run Chocolate Studio.

Chocolates engineered to perfection to provide the ultimate sensory experience.

Award-Winning Chocolates | Monthly Boxes Chocolate Masterclasses | Bake-At-Home Kits Advent Calendars | Wedding Favours Corporate Gifts & Much More...

Shop online or come & visit our Studio Open Thurs-Sat, 10am-2pm Poulshot Lodge Farm, Devizes SN10 1RQ www.hollychocs.co.uk | info@hollychocs.co.uk

Award Winning, Family Run Farm Shop Established for over 40 years Selling Quality Local Produce Open 7 days a week

HOME & LOCALLY REARED FRESH MEAT, POULTRY & GAME HOMEMADE SAUSAGES, BURGERS & FAGGOTS

LOCAL CHEESES & HOME COOKED MEATS LOCALLY GROWN VEGETABLES, FRUIT & SALADS HOMEMADE CAKES & PIES LOCALLY MADE CHOCOLATES & FUDGE Loose Chocolate Counter FINE WINE, LOCAL ALE & CIDER PRESERVES & CHUTNEYS GIFT HAMPERS

www.allingtonfarmshop.co.uk TEL: 01249 658112 Allington Bar Farm, Chippenham, SN14 6LJ

Wiltshire Inns features two historic town centre properties that both offer character and charm alongside a warm friendly welcome.

Both hotels are great places to head for drinks with friends or to enjoy some tasty homemade food in a friendly atmosphere.

The Swan Hotel is a charming grade II listed coaching inn located in Bradford on Avon near Bath.

Known locally for its traditional pub food and selection of ales, The Swan is also home to The Thai Chilli Restaurant renowned for serving mouth-watering authentic Thai cuisine and pub classics 7 days a week. It is open for breakfast from 8am and serves food all day until 9pm.

The Swan also offers 12 stylish and well-appointed rooms making it the ideal place to stay when visiting Wiltshire or Bath.

theswanbradford

_theswanhotel

www.theswanbradford.co.uk

This gorgeous 14th century coaching inn is a great place to socialise. With a mix of local residents, hotel guests and tourists the inn has a vibrant atmosphere with animated conversation, live entertainment and plenty of comfortable seating.

The bar offers a range of local beers and is renowned for its fine selection of whiskies and spirits including over 20 gins for you to sample at your leisure!

The hotel also boasts The Thai Chilli Restaurant, where the team of Thai chefs serve up delicious homemade Thai food alongside the pub’s traditional menu.

oldbellwarminster

oldbellwarminster

www.oldbellwarminster.co.uk

summer activities

GET Set Set For

Summer Have a great time with the family this summer by heading over to some of these fantastic local attractions!

Night at the Abbey returns to Glastonbury Abbey this August

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 39

summer activities

"Hatching the past: American Dinosaur Explorers heads the long list of highlights at the American Museum this summer"

AMERICAN MUSEUM

Claverton, Bath A brand new exhibition, Hatching the Past: American Dinosaur Explorers, heads the long list of highlights at the American Museum this summer. A must for any dino-fan, this remarkable hands-on exhibition offers an astounding array of dinosaur eggs and nests collected from all over the globe, with a special focus on the importance of American fossil sites in our understanding of dinosaurs. A captivating experience for all ages, Hatching the Past invites visitors to touch real dinosaur bones and reconstructed nests, dig for eggs in interactive dig pits, and view animated video presentations.

That’s not all though, with outdoor theatre (David Walliam’s Awful Auntie) on Friday 22 July, ‘Garden Grooves’ music evenings on Fridays 40 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

29 July, 26 August and 9 September and Summer Screen outdoor cinema events taking place over three evenings from 27-29 August there are countless reasons to head over to the beautiful American Museum this summer. americanmuseum.org

ARUNDELLS

59 Cathedral Close, Salisbury Arundells is looking forward to a busy summer season. This year promises to be an exciting one for Arundells, with some fantastic outdoor music and theatre events such as The Mary Lou Revue, The Importance of Being Earnest and E Nesbitt’s The Railway Children. There are also some brilliant speakers lined up to enlighten audiences on subjects from ‘The Future of Food

and the Countryside’ with Minette Batters, President of the National Farmers Union to ‘Climate Change - Opportunity or Apocalypse?’ with Lord Deben, see the website and Facebook page for details.

There is still time to see Arundells’ sculptural exhibition by the brilliant Martin Jennings. In ‘Poets, Plumbers and Martin Jennings' 'Poets, Plumbers & Politicians'

image © John Rose Photography

The American Museum has an exciting summer ahead

summer activities Politicians’ the renowned sculptor presents maquettes of his statues of famous national figures alongside the stories behind their full-size realisations. Exhibits range in size from a tiny 6ins high model of his sculpture of George Orwell outside the BBC to a cast of the largerthan-life size portrait bust of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother at St Paul’s Cathedral. The exhibition is on now and runs until 19 July. arundells.org

COURT FARM COUNTRY PARK

Banwell, Weston-s-Mare Court Farm Country Park is looking forward to a fun filled summer of entertainment for all the family. The park has been voted runners up in the Farm Attraction Of The Year competition twice in recent years, an accolade that the attraction’s owner, Peter Gwyn, puts down to the friendly atmosphere and the excellent facilities the farm boasts.

With over 25000sq ft of undercover attractions and playgrounds, all visitors can enjoy a day in the countryside whatever the weather.

If its animals you want – they have loads, from Shires and Shetlands to

lambs and piglets. Budding adventurers will love the Safari Jeep track. There are two large indoor adventure playgrounds, which suit all ages of children and there are lots of friendly animals on show too. With twice daily bottle-feeding shows kids can marvel at the antics of the farm’s baby animals. Tractor rides, pony rides, and a whole host of other goings on will leave your kids begging to come back soon. Court Farm Country Park is open daily all year round, 10am to 5.30pm. courtfarmcountrypark.co.uk

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GLASTONBURY ABBEY

Magdalene St, Glastonbury If you fail to get to the Glastonbury Festival this year, pop down to the town’s abbey over the August bank holiday to see festival favourites perform among the ruins.

On 26 August, the abbey’s awardwinning Night at the Abbey returns with another fantastic line-up across three stages, headlined by Bristol-based Cut Capers, which has added the abbey to its summer tour following its performance at the Glastonbury Festival. The event takes place from 4.30pm until 10pm.

The following day the Terrible Tudors move in for the next stop of the Horrible Histories’ national tour.

27 August is a chance to get a warts and all history lesson with all the nasty bits left in. There are two

“On 26 August, the abbey’s award-winning Night at the Abbey returns with another fantastic line-up” Glastonbury Abbey

42 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

summer activities performances starting at 3pm and 6pm. Both events offer discounts for children, members and for advance tickets bought online. Tickets for some shows will also be available on the door but at full price. glastonburyabbey.com

“The Garden Theatre Festival is your chance to make fantastic memories with the ones you love in the magical gardens of the museum.”

Holburne Museum

HOLBURNE MUSEUM

Great Pulteney Street, Bath The major exhibition at Holburne Museum over the summer is Love Life: David Hockney Drawings 1963 to 1977. Running until 18 September, visitors can see over 40 of David Hockney’s extraordinary drawings on loan from private collections, which show his artistry and astonishing power of observation and skill in using tiny, mundane details to help capture a situation, a sitter’s character, or a place.

Arty-kids might also be keen to get involved in the Holburne’s Summer Art Camps, which provide a full day of creative fun for children, delivered by experienced artists. Each day is designed to explore new skills, art practices and exciting materials.

Tickets are £42 per day, per child.

The Garden Theatre Festival is your chance to make fantastic memories with the ones you love in the magical gardens of the museum.

With a whole host of events featuring superb performances from children’s theatre to late night music, there’s something for everyone! See the website for full details! holburne.org 44 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

HOPE NATURE CENTRE

Southwick, Nr Trowbridge Based in Southwick Country Park just outside Trowbridge, Hope Nature Centre is now home to two new Highland cattle, three peacocks, and several new Angoran rabbits.

These new arrivals at the Animal Park have been settling in well, with visitors to the park enjoying the new arrivals. The new additions are joining a range of other animals including wallabies, donkeys, pigs, and goats. Access to the Animal Park also includes various play areas which is full of exciting equipment for children to ‘run wild’, so it’s a great afternoon out for children and adults alike.

Meet the new arrivals at Hope Nature Centre

outdoor family theatre production, from the creators of the The Handlebards, taking place in the beautiful garden of Corsham’s historic Almshouses.

Slapstick Picnic would like to cordially invite you to its summer For those looking for somewhere for tea party, where marvellous feats of breakfast or lunch, the Hope Nature performance and culinary capers Centre Café is the perfect place. await. Over tea and cucumber With a range of freshly prepared sandwiches, we ask that you breakfasts and lunches, you’ll find prepare to witness the impossible something tasty to tempt your – the entirety of Oscar Wilde’s tastebuds. There is also plenty of classic play of manners, affairs and sweet treats and cakes to enjoy over handbags being performed by just a freshly prepared hot drink. two rather dashing entertainers. hopenaturecentre.org.uk Don’t worry, this will be no stuffy, snooty, stuck-up affair! Oh no, this Pound Pill, Corsham version of The Importance of Being This Summer, Pound Arts is a Earnest will be ripping up the recipe hosting a fantastically wild(e) new book and celebrating silliness.

POUND ARTS

Slapstick Picnic are bringing The Importance of Being Earnest to The Pound

summer activities There’s no time for the twee tea-time titters – Slapstick Picnic are going to have you guffawing with your gran and spitting out your sauvignon on your sister. With Slapstick Picnic, you can have your cake and eat it.

You can book tickets for The Importance of Being Earnest by calling the Box Office on 01249 701628. Alternatively, you can book online via the website, where you can also see all plenty more family theatre coming to The Pound! poundarts.org.uk

ROVES FARM

Sevenhampton, Swindon This summer become a Roves Farm Nature Detective. Get involved in a range of nature-based activities in new outdoor area ‘Discovery Wood’.

West Wilts Magazine readers can also get 20% off tickets, see their advert in this issue!

After the holidays there will be Toddler Time every weekday during term time. Choose from a morning or afternoon session (or do both!), it’s all included with your day ticket or membership.

You and your little one can join in interactive sessions with stories, music, games and bubbles. Then

it’s on to meet the animals in Pet’s Corner and hop on a tractor ride.

This autumn Messy Play will return.

These popular themed sessions involve anything from edible sand, diggers and spades; gloopy green ponds where frogs hide, or giant bugs hiding in the hay. Follow @RovesFarmVC on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for details and dates coming soon. rovesfarm.co.uk

TOWPATH TRAIL

Frome Road, Bradford on Avon The Kennet & Avon Canal towpath offers traffic free and easy cycling for all the family. Stretching from Bristol to Reading, along hills and valleys, the cities and towns along the way offer an interesting backdrop to the wonderful country path.

Towpath Trail is the original bike hire centre on the canal. Operating from their base at TT Cycles in Bradford on Avon (just behind Sainsbury’s), their bikes are in fantastic condition and

“The Kennet & Avon Canal towpath offers traffic free and easy cycling for all the family."

Towpath Trail

Toddler Time will return to Roves Farm in the autumn

46 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

are ideal if you and the family want to head off to Bath (10 miles) Explore the Two Tunnels route or Devizes (12 miles), home to the famous Caen Hill lock flight, whichever way you choose to go you can enjoy the peaceful waterside, pretty picnic spots, children’s play areas and plenty of pubs en route where you can enjoy a well-deserved ice cream or a glass of something cold! towpathtrail.co.uk

Enjoy crafts at Trowbridge Museum

TROWBRIDGE MUSEUM

The Shires, Trowbridge At Trowbridge Museum you can discover 1000 years of the town’s history, see how the town was shaped by the scale of production and quality of its cloth and became the county town of Wiltshire.

The museum has some great activities to keep everyone entertained this summer. Kids can try their hand at tie-dying (28 July), create their own notebooks (27 July), master the art of paper plate weaving (3 Aug), make dazzling beach bags (10 Aug), make hand-printed postcards (11 Aug), take on a summer junk heap challenge, upcycle an old t-shirt (25 Aug) and paint pebbles (18 Aug). It’s great for kids to harness their creativity and the events are either free or charge a small fee.

Also be sure to head over for an original exhibition of the West of England Festival of Textiles, exploring sustainability in modern weaving and crafting. The museum is open 6 days a week and entry is free! trowbridgemuseum.co.uk

Trowbridge Museum A whole new second floor & fantastic events programme to explore!

image © Roy McDine

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gardens

GARDEN JOBS

Here are some of the top jobs to be getting on with in the garden this month...

1. Make compost. The summer sun can help your compost pile to “cook,” giving it an extra boost. Compost your kitchen and garden waste, chopping up and mixing the contents to speed up decomposition.

2. Top up bird baths, ponds and water features during hot weather.

Birds need to drink and wash whilst ponds can get very hot if the water is shallow, which is a danger to wildlife. Use water from a water butt if you can. If you can only refill a pond using tap water then leave it for 24 hours before adding it to your pond to allow the chlorine to dissipate.

3. Feed your crops. Apply tomato feed fortnightly to crops in pots and growing bags, such as tomatoes and chillies, to encourage fruiting.

4. Keep hanging baskets and planters watered. Water hanging

"Apply tomato feed fortnightly to crops in pots and growing bags to encourage fruiting."

Keep containers well watered

52

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

Keep bird baths topped up so birds can drink and wash in hot weather

baskets and patio containers daily, in the morning or evening to avoid excess evaporation, they can dry out extremely quickly on warm breezy days.

5. Protect your veggies. Cover brassicas with fine netting to prevent cabbage white butterflies laying their eggs on the leaves.

6. Mow lawns regularly. Keep mowing your lawn but raise the cutting height to leave the grass longer during dry weather - it prevents it drying out.

7. Make time for deadheading

Continue to mow your lawn regularly

daily. Deadhead bedding plants, sweet peas and annuals every few days to encourage more flowers.

8. Pest control. Be vigilant for aphids, vine weevils and other pests, and treat immediately so infestations don't get out of hand.

9. Take cuttings. Take cuttings from fuchsias, coleus, pelargoniums, marguerites and other tender perennials.

10. Grow your own. Sow small batches of fast-maturing salad leaves, rocket and radishes every few weeks for continuous pickings.

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gardens Frances Tophill's Best in Show garden

GARDENERS' WORLD LIVE This June LISA ROCKLIFFE paid a visit to one of the most popular garden shows in the calendar...

Beautiful planting combination including astrantia 'Ruby Wedding', roses,and geranium 'Rozanne'

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 55

I

gardens n the UK, there are around 27 million people who partake in gardening on a regular basis.

This is a huge portion of the population and many of those will get inspiration and advice from the likes of Alan Titchmarsh, Monty Don (pictured below), Pippa Greenwood and Frances Tophill.

No wonder then that Gardeners' World Live is one of the most popular garden shows of the year.

Not only are there great gardens to see and a floral marquee crammed with some of the finest nurseries in the country selling their best plants, but the theatres and stages mean those famous horticultural faces are on site answering your questions and telling their gardening stories to packed-out audiences.

This year also saw daily talks on growing your own from the National Allotment Society (pic right) – perfect for anyone who has recently taken on an allotment or has decided to start growing

“the theatres and stages mean those famous horticultural faces are on site answering questions and telling their gardening stories to packed-out audiences.”

Monty Don

56 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

The Practically Plastic-Free Garden

The National Allotment Society gave daily talks

their own food at home.

The show gardens were really impressive, not least BBC Gardeners' World presenter Frances Tophill's debut show garden, which won a platinum medal and the Best in Show award. Her garden featured plants grown in peat-free compost and used locally sourced, reclaimed and recycled materials throughout.

the Beautiful Borders area) can be recreated at home on a shoestring.

A ticket to Gardeners' World Live is particularly good value when you consider it also includes entry to the BBC Good Food Show. There were hundreds of artisan exhibitors offering foods from all over the world (you had to bring an appetite with you, there were tasters aplenty!), and Other gardens, such as the Practically live cooking demonstrations and Plastic-Free Garden (pictured top), talks from top chefs including Dame followed along the same sustainable Mary Berry, James Martin, Nadiya lines, and many more focused on Hussain, Tom Kerridge, John Torode, creating gardens with wildlife in Michel Roux and many more! mind. Marshalls Garden meanwhile showed how a huge much fresh If this sounds like your sort of thing produce could be sustainably grown you could always pop along to The from a small plot. All the gardens BBC Gardeners' World Autumn Fair at were a real treat, and whilst many of Audley End House & Gardens, outside us might not have the budget for the Saffron Walden in Essex, which takes hard landscaping at the moment, place from 2-4 September. the planting combinations and feel (particularly well demonstrated in • bbcgardenersworldlive.com

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house & home

SUMMER LIVING

With 15 years' industry experience LARA WILLMORE of Axford Interiors discusses how we can make the best of natural light in our homes…

Great design should allow light in but keep glare out

W

hilst we all welcome natural light into our homes with open arms, managing the glare and heat as a side effect on the home is another thing to consider. The trend for bifold doors means that more of us have large expanses of glass in areas where we want to relax. It isn’t ideal having to reach for the sunglasses when reading the news over breakfast!

"We often get asked for solutions to reduce sun glare and help to keep heat out of south-facing rooms."

We often get asked for solutions to reduce sun glare and help to keep heat out of south-facing rooms.

Alongside the more traditional options like Venetian and vertical blinds, roller blinds are a practical and neat way to solve this – being 60 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

available in many sizes, colours and densities means that the blind can even be semi translucent, so it doesn’t feel like you are closing out the sun, just softening the impact.

We also have roller blinds available with solar UV reflection coating, perfect to help keep the room cooler on hot days and warmer in the winter.

Another firm favourite in these scenarios are Wave Curtains. These can push back to a neat concertina of fabric without any gathering, they can be lined with blackout fabric or even left unlined to give that Mediterranean feel. With most options available as an upgrade with motorisation, you can adjust with a remote control from the comfort of your chair!

Axford Interiors have a vast collection of fabric, blind and wallpaper sample books – offering help in the comfort

of your home with choosing colour schemes, curtains, blinds and other soft furnishings while also offering assurance with high quality make up and installation. Early summer saw the rebranding of their sister company Axford Landscapes and the launch of their brand new website (axfordlandscapes.co.uk) working across a range of outdoor services from grounds maintenance, patios, fences, routine gardening and planting; to full garden transformations, both Axford Landscapes and Axford Interiors often work alongside each other on the same projects, working their magic on the outdoor space and the indoor space!

If you have a project in mind, or need a design solution in your home, contact Axford Interiors on 01225 895400 or email hello@axfordinteriors.co.uk and for any outdoor enquiries, contact Axford Landscapes on 01225 783344 hello@axfordlandscapes.co.uk to see how they can help.

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health & wellbeing

BLUEBIRD CARE EXPANDS TOWARDS CHIPPENHAM

Q

uality of care is the objective of Bluebird Care (Wiltshire North) servicing the towns and villages of West and North Wiltshire. Run by two local GPs and a nurse, it was clear from their

Bluebird Care put good quality of care first

Call our friendly team today.

Bluebird Care Wiltshire North bluebirdcare.co.uk/wiltshire-north 01225 863565 / 01249 851234 wiltshirenorth@bluebirdcare.co.uk 66

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experience how important good quality care was for patients’ health and wellbeing. We all want to remain in our own homes surrounded by the people and possessions we love, supported to live happily with dignity and respect.

the area including Corsham, Calne and the villages around Chippenham.

They are already involved there with specialised dementia training sponsoring a “dementia bus” which is a new way for carers to experience the condition in a simulated world.

With reassuring medical back-up readily available, they can offer reliable regular care ranging from companionship, personal and specialised care to 24 hour live-in care as required.

They ask their care professionals to “make a difference with every visit”.

All staff are carefully selected, trained and supervised. They are actively recruiting new staff and customers.

Get in touch for a free no-obligation home assessment from their friendly team on 01225 863565 or 01249 851234.

Bluebird Care is expanding towards Chippenham by opening a second office in Hathaway Surgery. This will be a hub for customers and staff in

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legal & financial

WANSBROUGHS MARKS 140 YEARS WITH REBRAND

I

n 1882 a young and determined H.R “Reginald” Wansbrough set out to open his own law practice in Bristol, quickly establishing himself as one of the most successful advocates in the city.

Since then Wansbroughs has continued to build on the success of its founder, growing and developing the firm into the leading law firm that it is today; with around 100 staff, three offices, and a full range of legal services.

Wansbroughs has never been afraid to keep up with the times, and following a period of dynamic growth and change, the firm has

unveiled a new brand to mark its 140th year. The rebrand epitomises the high quality of the firm’s services and its progressive outlook for the future.

personal approach, quality and exceptional service. To find out more please call 01380 733300 or email mail@wansbroughs.com.”

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Kayleigh Tindalid, Marketing Executive comments: “It is an exciting time for the firm and we have big growth plans. It has been a pleasure to work with a local creative agency to develop a new brand identity for Wansbroughs. The new identity reflects our history and values but presents them in a bold and modern way.

“We may have changed our look but clients can still expect the same

Wansbroughs have unveiled a new brand

THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE 67

bath rugby

NEW BACK ROOM TEAM AT BATH RUGBY Four experienced professionals join Bath Rugby’s performance department.

F

ollowing the ignominy of finishing bottom of the Gallagher Premiership for the 2021/22 season, Bath Rugby has taken steps to strengthen Head of Rugby Johann van Graan’s management team with the appointment of four experienced professionals.

The club confirms the appointment of a new leadership team across its Performance Departments which, together with the new coaching group, will drive significant improvements on and off the pitch.

Bath Rugby will see big changes ahead of next season

excellent practitioner and leader.

He brings extensive knowledge and a broad skillset from different • ALEX MARTIN will lead the club’s environments, following roles earlier Athletic Performance Department in his career at the Sports Institute of Northern Ireland and Ulster Rugby.

• RORY MURRAY joins as Head of Medical Services Lead Performance Nutritionist Sarah • SARAH JENNER is appointed Jenner will join from Munster Rugby.

Lead Performance Nutritionist • DON MACPHERSON joins Jenner spent five years as a Sports as Bath’s Mind Coach Dietitian at Australian Football League side Carlton, as well as England Women’s Physical lecturing in Nutrition and Dietetics Performance Lead, Alex Martin is at La Trobe University, before joining highly regarded and joins as Bath’s Munster in Limerick last year.

Head of Athletic Performance.

Working with the Red Roses, Martin Don Macpherson will become played a critical role in their current the club’s Mind Coach, having 23-match unbeaten run. He brings worked with a number of players a wealth of experience having previously worked at Leicester Tigers at Bath Rugby over the years.

Macpherson has helped scores for 11 years as Head of Physical of world-class athletes – across a Performance across two spells, range of professional sports – to and Leicester City, Loughborough develop specific mental skills which University and Wasps. enhance their performance.

Rory Murray joins as Head of Medical Chief Executive Tarquin McDonald Services having spent the past 10 said: “Alex, Rory, Sarah and Don years at Bristol Bears. Murray is an 68 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

have proven track records in maximising performance. They bring extensive experience from

“Don Macpherson will become the club’s Mind Coach, having worked with a number of players at Bath Rugby over the years.” a range of high performance environments, and we are excited about them joining the club.

“Our training environment will be different from day one of pre-season as Johann and his team focus on improving every aspect of our performance on and off the pitch ahead of the 2022/23 season.

“We have appointed four outstanding professionals who will help Bath Rugby excel on the field.”

• bathrugby.com

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last word

GARDENING LEAVE

I

like a nice garden as much as the next man but walking around a garden centre or garden show is not my idea of a well spent couple of hours.

My wife however, loves that sort of thing, she’ll head off to Chelsea Flower Show, Hampton Court and Malvern Show etc most years and this year asked me if I would like to accompany her to The Gardener’s World Live show at The NEC in Birmingham? I readied

rather costly heaven!! Pretty much every cuisine you can imagine is represented from all corners of the world. All different kinds of pastries, pies, sweets, desserts, sausages, sauces, marinades… literally hundreds of different and eclectic things to buy. Who knew that what I needed in my life was an Italian, vegan, pistachio cream?It’s similar to a velvety-smooth peanut butter but much, much nicer. And how did I not know flavoured peanut

“Who knew that what I needed in my life was an Italian, vegan, pistachio cream?It’s similar to a velvety-smooth peanut butter but much, much nicer.” my response, well-used when answering invitations to events of this type, “Wouldn’t you have more fun with someone who, er, knows more about plants?” but then she happened to drop in that it was a dual event with The Good Food Show. Well that changed things I can tell you!! I was arranging childcare quicker than you could say Mary Poppins and applying for a personal loan to make sure we could afford the petrol to get to The Midlands and back!!

All in all a fabulous day was had although as you might have guessed my marathon training/ diet may have taken a backseat for the day!!

butter was a thing?! There must Phil Rockliffe have been 20 different flavours to choose from and I’m proud to say I came away with just one, an extra hot, sweet and spicy one but could just as easily have bought the lot.

Sweet mustard ketchup was another condiment I’d not heard of that had me parting with my hard earned cash as did freshly made churros and a traditional cannoli.

One of the nicest things happened after my wife had rejoined me…. gardens and plants are all well and good I suppose but they We left in what we thought was good time but unfortunately so did can’t compete with lush food!! We bumped into Holly from Hollychocs! thousands of other people so once we got off the M5 it was a long wait, She is a lovely lady from Poulshot and she makes some of the loveliest, in a very hot car, before we actually got to the show. Once there though most scrumptious chocolates you will ever taste! We’d never met in it was fabulous. We had a quick person so after we had introduced trundle around the garden side of things together and then split up so ourselves we then got down to the I could wander around the hundreds serious business of buying some of different food producers that have chocolate. We went for three bars, the Yummy Yummy, the Neptune stalls there. I was in heaven, albeit a 74 THEWESTWILTSMAGAZINE

and the Caramel Mocha. They were heavenly and even though we had bought three with the intention of giving them as thank you gifts to our childcare heroes I have to report they didn’t even make it out of the exhibition hall… nope we scoffed the lot between the two of us.

(They’d never have survived the heat of the car journey home, honest!)

Seriously though I can’t recommend Hollychocs enough they are beyond amazing!