Dining/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 355 / 22 DECEMBER 2017 – 5 JANUARY 2018
@BathLifeMag
OUT WITH THE OLD
CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY
RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME EXTRAORDINARY CLOCK CRAFTED BY BATH-BORN MAKER
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L C
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GARDEN
REDISCOVER THE GARDENS AT DYRHAM PARK
OT H OU
ISSUE 355 / 22 DECEMBER 2017 – 5 JANUARY 2018 / COME ON IN
LIGHTEN UP WITH A HOME REVAMP
COURSE OF ACTION
HOBBIES YOUR MIND AND BODY WILL LOVE YOU FOR
SHINY & NEW TAKE A LOOK INSIDE BATH’S URBAN HUB WALCOT HOUSE (AND 27 OTHER LOCAL VENTURES)
PHOTO BY SOUL MEDIA
EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 355 / 22 DECEMBER 2017 – 5 JANUARY 2018
What’s new?
108
CELEBRATE NEW 28 new bars, restaurants and clubs in Bath, including Walcot House (pictured)
As we’re heading into a new year, we thought this would be high time to take a look back on 2017 and celebrate all that it brought to Bath. We would need to write a tome in order to cover everything that’s happened, so we’ve just focused on recent openings in the city. Turn to page 108 to discover the new and improved fashion boutiques, restaurants, hotels, artisan homeware treasure troves, food halls and clubs – including the beautiful urban hub that is Walcot House (which you’ll spot on our cover). Talking of newness, we’ve been picking the brains of interior designers all over the city to find out just how to revitalise your sanctuary for 2018, whether that’s with a talking-point oyster trough or with a living wall (page 40). Elsewhere, we’ve taken a closer look at the rustic, handmade back-to-nature trend (page 52); had a go at weird and wonderful hobbies – from sworddancing to fermentation (page 117); and explored the new roof terrace at one of Bath’s popular fine-dining restaurants. Have a happy New Year, Bath Lisa Evans, Editor Follow us on Twitter: @BathLifeMag Follow us on Instagram:@bathlifemag
WALCOT HOUSE EAT • DRINK • DANCE
WWW.WALCOTHOUSEBATH.COM | 90B WALCOT STREET, BATH BA1 5BG
FEATURES / ISSUE 355 / 22 DECEMBER 2017 – 5 JANUARY 2018
Lean cuisine from Hobsons|choice
40
INSIDE STORY
Living walls, and champagne and oyster troughs – just some of the ways to reinvigorate your home in 2018
154 Bath Lives
Writer Lindsay Hawdon on world travels and an awkward moment with Richard Gere
REGULARS / ISSUE 355 / 22 DECEMBER 2017 – 5 JANUARY 2018 M E ET T H E T EAM
THE ARTS
Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk
81 Arts intro
Deputy editor Samantha Walker sam.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors David Flatman, Ollie Wright, Alex McCabe and Nic Bottomley Group advertising manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Justine Walker justine.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Account Manager Sophie Speakman sophie.speakman@mediaclash.co.uk Sales executive Louis Grey louis.grey@mediaclash.co.uk
Meet a striking Lady in Red
82 What’s on Time to update the events diary
93 Bookshelf Stuck for a New Year’s resolution? Nic Bottomley says turn over a new leaf
95 Film Ollie Wright unleashes his inner Jedi in time for the next Star Wars instalment
Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Matt Gynn matt.gynn@mediaclash.co.uk
FOOD 96 Restaurant Contemporary and upmarket Indian dining at The Mint Room
Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk
105 Food & drink news The Angelfish, The Cakery and The Italian Food Hall
Bath Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash
SHOPPING 107 Shopping intro
© All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.
Clocking in with a horological timepiece
52 Editor’s choice There’s a back-to-nature, rustic vibe for 2018’s interior trends
LIFEST YLE 111 New beginnings We take a look at the myriad of new businesses that opened in Bath in 2017
Sink into 2018 at Spa 15
BUSINESS
DEPARTMENTS
121 Business insider
13 18 33
News, views and interviews from the region’s professionals
PROPERT Y 142 Property showcase Splendour, space and painstaking restoration at Sandridge Park
Spotlight Society A man’s world
About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag). Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk
On the cover The chandelier at Walcot House. Turn to page 108 for the full feature on the new urban hub. Photograph by Soul Media
BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES
The couture ensemble on the catwalk
The slogan T-shirt and knitted knickers
FASHION
STATEMENT PIECE When is a dress not a dress? When it is, in fact, a T-shirt. And, while that reminds us of something our mothers may have said when we tried to sneak out a little too scantily clad for their liking, this time it’s official. That’s because a slogan tee has been named Dressed of the Year 2017, with its We Should All Be Feminists strapline likely to still be in vogue in 2018 – and years to come no doubt. But the T-shirt isn’t to be worn on its own (mothers everywhere can now exhale) as it’s part of an ensemble worn with a black wool jacket, black tulle skirt and completed with black knitted underwear.
The outfit was chosen by Sarah Bailey, Red’s editorial director, and was created by Maria Grazia Chiuri at Christian Dior. “Maria is the first female creative director in the history of the house and I admired the vigour with which she immediately started challenging the conversation around women, creativity and the gendering of genius,” says Sarah. The statement look has been spotted on a host of celebrities, including Rihanna, Jennifer Lawrence and Natalie Portman. It can be seen at the Fashion Museum, Bath, in its Dress of the Year collection, started in 1963. For more: www.fashionmuseum.co.uk
SPOTLIGHT
ENTERTAINMENT Dame Jacqueline knows the pen is mightier than the sword
TEARS FOR FEARS TO PLAY BATH Tears for Fears are to make a triumphant return to Bath as headline act at 2018’s Bath Festival. The Bath band will play at The Rec on 26 May, along with a very special guest. They’re known for a huge catalogue of hits including Mad World, Everybody Wants To Rule The World and Shout. “We have a massive six months ahead, and this just tops it off beautifully,” says TFF’s Roland Orzabal. “Coming home to play in the city where it all started for us 37 years ago on The Rec, for the finale weekend of the 70th anniversary of the Bath Festival, is a perfect way to round off the tour. We can’t wait.” Joining TFF on stage will be 80s icon Alison Moyet – the voice behind hits including All Cried Out and Is This Love?, and more big names are set to be announced. The festival celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2018, and chief executive Ian Stockley, says: “We’re delighted to announce plans for our finale weekend at the Rec, 26 – 27 May, where we will have three outdoor stages and a number of hugely exciting acts across the two days. There could not be a more appropriate band to announce, as our first headline act than Tears for Fears.” The festival will run from 11 – 27 May. For more: www.bathfestivals.org.uk
THEATRE
THE LAND OF MAKE BELIEVE
Welcome home chaps!
We’ll be Weak in the Presence of... Alison Moyet
Bath-born Jacqueline Wilson is one of the nation’s favourite authors, having created many memorable characters including Tracy Beaker and Hetty Feather. And it’s her tale of Hetty – and her escape from the Foundling Hospital – that will enchant families in January when it comes to the Theatre Royal Bath. “Bath is such a lovely, exciting place and I was given an honorary doctorate from Bath University so there’s another pleasant connection there,” says Dame Jacqueline. “My parents actually met in the Pump Rooms in Bath during the war, got married, had me and lived in digs before moving to Kingston when I was two. It’s funny because very literal-minded, very little children when they hear I was born in Bath they always think ‘In the bath?’’ Her inspiration for Hetty came after working with the Foundling Museum. “I agreed to do some events for them and they said: ‘Of course what we’d really like you to do is write a novel about a Foundling child.’ I thought: ‘That’s so not what I usually do. I’ve never written a historical novel before.’ But the suggestion haunted me and within weeks I had the character, I had the plot and everything, and I don’t think I’ve ever enjoyed writing a book as much as I did with Hetty Feather.” Hetty Feather runs from 9 – 13 January. For more: see page 82
Adventures in party-going
Hannah Brandrith and Nicola Purnell
SCENE AC ROS S B AT H , O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E
Ben Wells and Evie Jankauskyte
Natasha Cottell, Leonie Spencer, David Newton and Emma Wyatt
COUNCIL CONVERSATION Guests at November’s Bath Life Business Club listened to a talk with the leader of B&NES Council, Tim Warren, on 27 November. The sell-out event was a rare chance to listen to the councillor – and hear what he really thinks. For more, see page 126 The next Bath Life Business Club takes place on 22 January, and guests will be able to enjoy a fine lunch as well as a talk from Bath Rugby’s chief executive Tarquin McDonald. Photos by Philip Shone www.mamaisononline.co.uk
Ian Lloyd, Julian Frere and Dave Dixon Penny Cox and Justine Buxton
Polly Hill and Claire Wheeler James Horsfall, Louis Grey and Pat White
18 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Jonathan Stapleton, Michele Green and Graham Papenfus
SOCIETY
CHIC SHOPPING
Melanie Weekley, Jo Johnson and Kimberley Tucker
Lola Swift hosted an ‘It’s Time To Sparkle’ party, and celebrated the opening of her festive pop-up boutique on Northumberland Place. The store stocked Lola’s own knitwear label, fashion, gifts and ideas for interiors. Guests met and mingled with some of the creatives behind her products, and celebrated the shop’s return to Bath for a fourth year running.
Louise Ball and Ella Richmond
Helen Acheson-Crow and Josephine Waygood
Julie Orme and Lucy Snellus
Kate Wyatt and George Healy Tanya Estrella, Marie Curtis and Jan Periton Tamara Shenton andJem Davies
Lola Swift and Jackie Woods
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SOCIETY
BEHIND THE MASK A dazzling charity ball took place at the Guildhall, Bath, in aid of the James Hopkins Trust, Bath Cats and Dogs Home, and Dorothy House Hospice Care. Guests wowed in their stunning masks, contributing to the exciting atmosphere of the evening. The ball, organised by Rygor, consisted of a delicious meal, followed by a charity auction, hosted by none other than Bath Life columnist David Flatman. Tim Stacey, Rygor managing director, says, “We are delighted that our first ever charity masked ball was such an enjoyable evening and raised more than £10,000 for these three incredible causes.”
Tom Shoemack, and Elizabeth and Oliver Leatham
Melissa Lund-Jackson and Adrian Bird
David Flatman brings the gavel down Did our Flats tell a joke?
Harvey and Julie Steed
John Keogh and Andy Passco Philippa Watson and Henrietta Beard
22 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
SOCIETY
THE ART OF WINNING The Black Swan Arts Open – an annual competition for original artwork by both established and emerging artists – held a private view in November. The panel of judges included broadcaster and journalist Mariella Frostrup and Gary Sangster, trustee of Arnolfini, with a record-breaking 918 entries received. Chairwoman Amanda Sheridan says, “The Black Swan Arts Open offers a unique opportunity to see the wide range of artistic talent in the area all in one venue, and buy the work.” The Open has a reputation for attracting some of the very best contemporary artists and artworks and for selecting diverse and original pieces. Photos by David Shoukry www.englishphotoworks.com
Garry Yoxall, Bea Haines and Rachel Yoxall
Jennifer Newbury, Simon Keyte and Seamus Nicolson
Mariella Frostrup and Amanda Sheridan
Iain Kemp Morag Stuart and Emma Warren
Emma Tuck
Daniel McGirr
24 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Sheila Gore and Hans Bourgonjon
SOCIETY
SAY CHEESE A cheese, wine and jazz evening made for a glamorous fundraising event. The event at the American Museum in Bath was part of Sanlam’s fundraising drive for CASCAID, the asset management industry’s initiative to raise £2m in 2017 for Cancer Research UK. Guests also enjoyed a private view of the museum’s Jazz Age exhibition. A raffle and auction, with prizes from The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa and Clayton’s Kitchen, added to the excitement. £1,400 was raised and added to the £30,000 previously raised by Sanlam’s CEO Jonathan Polin on a 850-mile cycle ride.
Sonya Hillier, Charlie O’Shea and Peter Finnigan
Jim Robertson and Michael Stanley
Ian and Helen Patterson
Nick and Elisabeta Battersby Halina Moroney and Candida Gower Jon and Lily Langlois
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Ralph and Susan Elia
SOCIETY Abigail talks dough with Richard Bertinet
ON THE RISE Students at Three Ways School had a special treat when celebrity chef Richard Bertinet took time out of his busy schedule to help them make bread. Richard, who’s originally from Brittany and runs a cookery school in Bath as well as penning a number of cookery titles, helped the special needs students at the school’s purpose-built café, the 3 Café Kitchen. The café will help develop employability skills for young people with a range of disabilities, and give real-life work experience.
Libby gets ready for Bake Off
Photos by Nick Cole www.nickcolephotography.co.uk Josh sees the knead for speed
Farrell looks smart in chef’s whites
YOU WANT TO BE A CONTENDER? They’re the hottest business awards in town, so little wonder that a seminar called How To Win a Bath Life Award was a busy affair. The Apex Hotel was the venue for the event – the first of its kind – with the audience enjoying a presentation plus hearing our 12 Top Tips to help you win. Nominations are now open for the awards which take place on 1 Marsh at the Assembly Rooms. The awards are free to enter. For more; www.bathlifeawards.co.uk
28 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Paying careful attention to the tips
The Apex’s Tim O’Sullivan
Learning to craft the perfect nomination
SOCIETY
TOP TABLE hobsons|choice was the apt venue for an excting Gaggenau Kitchen Workshop event. Foodies watched a demonstration from home economist Allison Sawyer, before rolling up their sleeves and making dishes in the beautiful kitchen showrooms. A budding Jamie Oliver demonstrates
Raising a glass to the event
Alison Sawyer cooks up a storm
The event had plenty of foodie flair
ON TREND Women’s lifestyle clothing brand Mistral held a fashion show fundraiser in aid of Dorothy House Hospice Care. The event, which took place at Mistral’s flagship store at New Bond Street, Bath, was attended by customers as well as Yvonne Brunton, the Winsley charity’s community fundraiser. Items from the new season’s collection were modelled, and guests shown how the collection can be mixed and matched together. The Mistral team with Yvonne Brunton from Dorothy House, fourth from left
Putting the fun in fashion
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Taking to the catwalk
A MAN’S WORLD
DAVID FLATMAN
FRESH BEGINNINGS Flats is dreaming big for his New Year’s resolutions, but he won’t be giving up that voracious meat-eating habit anytime soon
W
hile we all know that New Year’s resolutions mean nothing, there is something about the first of January that makes one keen to make a new start. Last year I decided to exercise vigorously three times a week and, for 10 of the last 12 months at least, I have managed that. It hasn’t made a blind bit of difference, mind you, but my voracious barbecue habit might have something to do with that. Still, I can call it an achievement and feel smug about it. My aims for the New Year are broad and infantile. ‘Get money to finish house’ is one, and that really is as empty a piece of rhetoric as you’ll hear, but I mean it in my own way. I’m not quite sure how said money will land in the joint account (yes, we have two; Mrs F likes to keep her own. I’m not kidding, and somehow I rather admire her aggression in this matter), but maybe, just maybe. I once read that creating goals and getting after them in a planned manner is what defines ambition, and that simply imagining yourself in a position of great happiness or success is nothing but vanity. Hmm, I’d better get cracking… ‘Get organised’ is another. Again, I’m not really sure what this means, but I definitely love the idea of having close to no stress in my life whatsoever, and I believe this is an attainable dream. Like many self-employed people (I hope), I got that email from my accountant about a month ago that read: “Lovely to catch up last week, and don’t forget your tax bill needs to be paid this Jan!” Gulp. It’s not that I’d forgotten, it’s that the information had never
truly been stored in my messy desk of a brain. Apparently it’s every January, which is nice. Anyway, what I’m going to do about this is to get someone else to sort it for me, mainly as I know my limits. Give me a microphone and tell me to muck about and I’m fine, tell me to actually open my own post and action vital administrative tasks and I’m about as much use as a liquorice lawn mower. Can’t help it. I blame Mum. ‘Get lean’ is the third. I’m joking. I gave up on that back in ’09. Having said that, though, I have just booked a little trip away to Corfu this summer with five pals. One of them invested wisely in a former life and owns the gorgeous house at which we will stay, so it’s a cheap, fun little trip. Sadly, though, every one of the other five works out every day (every day!) and eats clean. They are a lean, muscular, smiling bunch and I will be sharing the poolside sun loungers with them. Not ideal, but something to work towards (as I type this I’m popping out periodically to check on the extra large lamb shoulder that’s currently roasting over hot coals on my barbecue). Overall, I’m keeping it real for 2018. I’ll do some work, I’ll eat some meat, I’ll walk my dogs, and I’ll cuddle my children every single time they allow me to do so. Oh, and when I’ve got some time spare around those core activities I’ll sort the house out, not that I know what that actually means, but a chap can dream.
MY AIMS FOR THE NEW YEAR ARE BROAD AND INFANTILE
David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on Twitter @davidflatman
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A time and a place Whether you’re looking for a showstopping way to reinvigorate your interiors (living walls?), or maybe a small but impactful addition that will make a refreshing difference (oyster and champagne troughs?), here, interior designers from in and around Bath tell us what’s big for 2018… By L i sa E va ns
40 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
INTERIORS
GO WILD, INDULGE YOUR
CREATIVENESS, AND PLAY WITH COLOURS AND MATERIALS
‘Amazonia’, a wallpaper design by de Gournay, available at Etons of Bath
A
s the festive decorations come down and the reality of January sets in, it’s not just our energy levels that are left feeling deflated. A home that looked fine last month can suddenly appear drab, like something’s missing – but what? We ask local interior experts that very question…
THE TIME IS NOW
With the start of the year, the resurgence of a familiar saying seems to ring true: Out with the old and in with the new. Right now, there is a natural push to start anew… Wiping the slate clean has always been a cathartic and energy-giving exercise at the best of times. At the beginning of a new year, that consciousness is prevalent, and it is the best time to embrace it by literally sweeping away the old and the unwanted, as Vanessa Sayce, the owner and creative director of The Marmalade House, on Bartlett Street, Bath, explains. “Not only is the change good for the soul, it is a perfect (safe and reasonable) way to express yourself and help you to have new frame of mind,” says the interior stylist and furniture-painting expert. “We all think of the new year as a fresh beginning. Changing your environment can be one of the most inspiring, mood-lifting and positive things you can do for your immediate surrounds and the place you call home.” Sharan Oberai – the owner of Nãm Store on New Bond Street, Bath – agrees that the new year is a symbol of moving forward with energy and optimism. “Most of us indulge through the festive season and there feels like an abundance of everything everywhere,” says Sharon, whose shop specialises in French ceramics from the Parisian artisan house Astier de Villatte. “I think there is a need to simplify and define our goals for the year ahead; refreshing the home is often where we start.” The advice from Phil Harflett, the head of design at Hobsons|choice – a high-end kitchen, bathroom and interior design and installation specialist on London Road, Bath – is to consider whether you are looking to emulate a trend or if you would like to make an investment in something more timeless. “The current popular brass or copper surfaces are a good example,” he says. “In 10 years’ time, it will probably be quite easy to say when an interior was created. When you have a good idea of what you would like to achieve, talk to a professional. A conversation over a coffee will often bring out new ideas you hadn’t thought of or help you understand any challenges you may face.” You don’t have to go wild redecorating every room, though. Giselle Mannering, the head of interior design at OKA – a globally-inspired furniture and home accessories store on Milsom Street, Bath – says that by adding multiples of an w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 41
INTERIORS
accessory, or including some statement cushions, you can create a whole new scheme that can be easily updated to follow the seasons. “A simple trick is to use linen cushions in spring and summer, and swap to velvets in winter,” she says. “Choose new accessories that blend well with existing furniture, but also introduce a splash of fresh colour.” Also, pack away anything you don’t love or find useful, and if you don’t miss it after three months, give it away; this can help re-energise your space, says Michelle Aitken, partner at interiors shop Verve on London Road, Bath.
WHERE THERE’S A WALL, THERE’S A WAY…
Feature walls are huge for 2018. Think botanical, clashing, metallic and wild prints… Matching is out. So stop worrying about whether your walls match your floors or your sofa matches your curtains, and go for something bold that contrasts without clashing, so says Kim Paterson, head of interiors at design-led department store Rossiters of Bath, on Broad Street. “Mix big, bold statement patterns (such as wallcoverings from the new Icons range by Cole & Son) with metallics, linen-style fabrics in pastel shades, and velvet accessories,” she says. “Velvet is making a comeback, but, this season, rather than going for the rich, deep shades they are usually associated with, choose light hues such as blush 42 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Bath’s Nãm Store specialises in French ceramics from the Parisian artisan house Astier de Villatte
WABISABI IS THE TREND FOR FINDING BEAUTY IN IMPERFECTION
pinks and muted yellows.” Like Kim, Sarah Latham, the owner and creative director at Etons of Bath – an interior design business with a specialism for Georgian properties – on Walcot Street, says wallcoverings, especially of the hand-painted variety, are a hit for 2018. “In our showroom, we feature some classic Chinoiserie hand-painted in 22-carat gold, alongside some more contemporary, hand-painted butterflies in muted, dusky pinks and browns,” she says. “It’s a highly skilled and traditional Chinese trade; apprentices shadow a master craftsman for 15 years before working on their own designs. Some of the panels take 300 hours to work on. “Suppliers like de Gournay, who we work with, tailor their designs to your walls so that the patterns work around your windows and doors to create a truly breathtaking end result,” she adds. And with botanicals being on trend for the past few years, consumers are on to the next new thing – feature walls made from moss and plants. These self-sufficient vertical gardens make for striking visual additions to the home, as independent, Bath-based interior designer Clair Strong explains. “I really love nature-inspired interior design, and I think we’re going to see a lot more of it this year,” she says. “Houseplants are already hugely popular, but we’ll see people using greenery in even more exciting ways. Living walls are one example. They are impressive and beautiful and they can also have health benefits, such as improving air quality and relieving stress.” w
INTERIORS
SOMETHING SPECIAL
Because who doesn’t need an oyster-chilling station or a champagne trough? An impactful way to make a change in the home, without redecorating to the extreme, is with a special feature, whether that’s a spectacular piece of art, or with a conversation-starting, multifunctional element, as Stephen Garland, creative director at Papilio, a bespoke design company in Frome, tells us. “Why have one use for a sink when you can have a multi-functional trough which can be used for anything from chilling oysters and champagne, or growing herbs?” he says. “For the avid entertainer, the multi-purpose integrated trough sink is the perfect addition to any kitchen, and with more homeowners looking to add that ‘wow-factor’ to their home, this has been a favourite.” Stephen also suggests that sparkling water taps (Zip Taps) or unusual lighting are other ways in which to improve the kitchen, and Phil at Hobsons|choice says hidden downdraft extraction is perfect for more open-plan living environments. “The downward direction of the unwanted cooking odours means, at head-height, the air is clean and clothes remain smell-free,” he says.
FORM AND SUBSTANCE
From industrial-look concrete to oxidised metal, these are the materials and textures trending right now… An emphasis and attention towards all things British-made and handmade is apparent at Indy Furniture, in Marshfield, as owner Justin Pocock explains. “Products which are built to last and can be passed down to younger generations continue to be the way forward,” he says. “Buying cheap items destined, eventually, for landfill, is over. Details this year are key; luxurious materials,
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Above: a multi-functional kitchen trough which can be used for anything from chilling oysters to growing herbs; below: hidden downdraft extraction at Hobsons|choice means your kitchen stays smell-free
leathers, softly polished woods and the enduring, dense luxe of metallics all play a major role in the styling of interiors in 2018.” As a general rule-of-thumb, Hobsons|choice doesn’t follow short-term crazes. For example, the expected lifespan of one of their bulthaup kitchens is 25 years, and many trends will have come and gone by then. However, blending different surface finishes and tones together – including natural wood veneers, anodised aluminium, glass, laminate, stainless steel and lacquered surfaces – is a popular choice. Concrete remains an ongoing trend for the minimalist home, and Vanessa at The Marmalade House is embracing it. “We’re seeing a passion for a sophisticated mix of industrial and elegant tastes combined to give a creative flair to interiors,” she says. “It’s OK to have scaffold table legs next to your velvet sofa, and rough, wash-painted floorboards next to your state-ofthe-art media centre. Sheepskin beanbags can be thrown on a tinted concrete floor, and raw copper filaments in bulbs can be beautiful above your washed-out farmhouse table.” “Metallic and concrete accent pieces are a great way to add texture, warmth and a bit of bling to a space,” agrees Michelle at Verve. “And we love the ongoing vibe for mixing eras, materials and colours to create unique, personal spaces.” w
Changing your environment can be one of the most inspiring, mood-lifting and positive things you can do
Play with patterns for 2018. You’ll find this Cole & Son lively, wallpaper at Rossiters of Bath
INTERIORS
Right: a bespoke, energetic design by Papilio in Frome
Vicky Elmore, the director of Elmore Kitchens on Saracen Street, Bath, welcomes the use of natural-looking materials such as steel and copper in the kitchen, too; not just on cabinetry, but also on worktops and splashbacks, with subtle lighting giving an added dimension. The trend for other metals like brass continues, but a shift towards ‘treating’ the metals to achieve interesting patinas is becoming more popular, as Stephen at Papilio explains. “Reflective surfaces create a lighter room and a sense of opulence, even when you use smaller focal points such as pans or storage containers,” he says. “There are various ways to achieve a more popular finish – such as oxidation, chemicals and heat.” Sarah Howells at TR Hayes – which has been in Bath for over 100 years, and where you’ll find leading brands of furniture, flooring, wallpaper and home accessories – thinks that herringbone wooden flooring will become more popular in 2018. And Emily Oliver, the owner of Mebyl – a vintage furniture specialist on Cleveland Terrace, Bath – is a big fan of mixing materials, so she’s happy to see new trends that highlight this; although, she would recommend using reclaimed materials whenever you can, to add a bit of depth and originality.
BACK TO NATURE
Natural, earthy colours and textures are coming to the fore, and there’s more of an appreciation for the splendour of imperfection… Earthen luxury will be everywhere in 2018, and raw materials and warm, earthy colours will be used to create a connection with nature in the home, says Clair Strong. “It’s a very tactile and inviting look that emphasises physical and emotional wellbeing and environmental responsibility,” she explains. “This trend is an offshoot of Scandi design, with a focus on simplicity, functionality and handcrafted design. I think it will grow in popularity as people seek to create beautiful spaces that help them temporarily disconnect from the digital world.” Sharan at Nãm Store says Wabi-sabi – the trend for finding beauty in imperfection – is her personal favourite SS18 look. “It’s all about a sense of wellbeing within spaces,” she says. “Layering natural fabrics and objects to sit harmoniously together will result in a calm, inviting environment. It’s the awareness that our surroundings in some way are ‘us’.” And Emily at Mebyl says that making your home into a sanctuary to escape the stresses of the world is a no-brainer for 2018. “Even if you can only make one room a peaceful, relaxing space, it will be worth it,” she says. “Remember to try to bring in elements of nature – plants, natural materials, pictures of places you love and daylight – to calm and ground you.” w 46 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
TOP TIPS TO A HOME REVAMP “Consider the project as a whole. Don’t get carried away with buying new furniture without planning carefully and taking into consideration what the space is being used for. When introducing colour, use textiles and accessories, which can easily be changed.” Giselle Mannering at OKA, Bath “Write yourself a brief. How do you want the space to work? What lighting do you need? Where do you need electrical points? How do you want the space to feel? What natural light do you get? What are the acoustics like? What’s your budget? Answering these questions will steer you through the myriad of decisions you need to make along the way.” Sarah Latham at Etons of Bath, Bath “When enthusiasm wins over analysis, it often goes horribly wrong. Having someone to guide you and do the research and the organisation can be a saving grace.” Vanessa Sayce at The Marmalade House, Bath
“The biggest mistakes we see are people not thinking practically enough about how they need a space to work for them, and getting carried away with overdesigned spaces.” Vicky Elmore at Elmore Kitchens, Bath “Don’t play it safe and do what everyone else does. Go wild, indulge your creativeness, play with colours and materials, mix vintage and stark modern pieces – it will look incredible and you will be the envy of your friends.” Justin Pocock at Indy Furniture, Marshfield “The new year is a great time to take advantage of furniture sales and latest launches from interior design houses. We aim to be at the forefront of what is on trend for a vast range of different style tastes and budgets, and you will find a combination of the avant-garde and the classical in all our departments.” Kim Paterson at Rossiters of Bath, Bath
INTERIORS
Statement, hand-painted wallcoverings can create truly breathtaking end results, such as this design, available at Etons of Bath
SHOW YOUR COLOURS
For 2018, colours are full of energy, drama and depth… Overall, it seems as if there’s going to be a step away from light greys after many seasons of it being a go-to neutral. At Etons of Bath, you’ll notice a drift towards more yellow-based neutrals; TR Hayes will be embracing an energetic scheme, with aqua and peach thrown in the mix; and Mebyl will be drawn to dramatic oceanic colours, offsetting this boldness with understated pastels, pinks and lilacs. “We love deep, rich hues that continue from 2017,” says Michelle at Verve. “Moody blues, deep greens and burnt yellows are a great way to add a dash of glam or fun, depending on how and where they’re used. We’re also happy to see the return of florals, albeit bigger, bolder and brighter than last time they were prevalent.” Vicky at Elmore Kitchens agrees that deep blues and indigos are the hottest cool shades of the moment, and Justin at Indy Furniture is looking forward to colour becoming king as the year goes on. “Those who are brave enough to add pops of bright, resonant colour to their interiors 48 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
WE’RE HAPPY TO SEE THE
RETURN OF FLORALS – BOLDER AND BRIGHTER THAN LAST
TIME THEY WERE PREVALENT
will be richly rewarded for being one step ahead of the crowd,” he says. “Experiment with intense reds, splashes of yellow and lush greens. Also, channel the 1970s: think macramé plant holders with vivid green fauna hanging from ceilings, and add something indulgent like a fabulous new lampshade to change a space very simply but effectively.” A black and white scheme is always a classic, but designers including Clair Strong will be looking to introduce a third colour, like teal, to create depth and modernise the look. Clair also advises to look for alternative ways to style the existing textiles the home: hang rugs on the wall for a statement art piece, try layering cushions for a lush and inviting seating area, and hang curtains high for a dramatic look. At Article – an artisan homeware shop on Bartlett Street, Bath, one of the most popular Edward Bulmer Natural Paint colours is Invisible Green – a grassy shade inspired by the 19th-century idea of painting ironwork in the landscape to ‘vanish’ it. “It’s a microporous paint, ideal for historic, Bath properties as it allows the fabric of the building to breathe,” says owner of Article, Lucy Simon.
Handcrafted fine kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms We offer a completely bespoke service that includes design and fitting, along with a full range of standard products. Our local team of tradesmen cover all aspects of plumbing, electrical, plastering and decorating services. Visit our showroom located in the centre of Devizes. Open every weekday 9.30am - 5pm and Saturday 10am - 4pm.
11/12 Northgate Street Devizes Wiltshire SN10 1JL Tel: 01380 721772 www.devizesfinekitchens.com
Devizes fine kitchens
Kelly will provide you a German kitchen that is beautiful not just to look at, but to be in. Take the first step towards your dream kitchen, contact Kelly today. 8 Pulteney Terrace, Bath BA2 4HJ t 01225 481 881 e homemakerdesign@btconnect.com
Proud Finalists of
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AU NATUREL THERE’S A BACK-TO-NATURE, RUSTIC, HANDMADE VIBE ABOUT 2018’S INTERIOR TRENDS… 5
4
1. ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM
2. AND SEW IT BEGINS
3. LOOKING SHARP
4. TEA-RRIFIC
5. CACTUS MAKES PERFECT
Elephant cushion, £69.95 This exotic-look cushion – from Bath-based designer Diana Wilson Arcana – will add vibrancy and a colourburst to any living room From Homefront Interiors, 10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www. homefrontinteriors.co.uk
Hand-embroidery kit, £11.99 This houseplant design kit – created by Bath-based maker Helen Dickson – is ideal if you struggle to keep real plants alive From Bustle & Sew, Bath; www.bustleandsew.com
Cacti Coasters, £32 Designed and crafted locally – near Englishcombe, Bath, by independent maker Clive Roddy – these coasters create an interesting room accessory when not in use From Clive Roddy, Bath; www.cliveroddy.co.uk
Cosy mugs, £26 These mugs – glazed with colour combinations inspired by the British coast – fit snuggly between your hands for a warming cuppa on a chilly night From Libby Ballard Ceramics, Studio 3, Pound Arts Centre, Corsham; www.libbyballard.co.uk
Shot glasses, £29.95 With a hand-blown effect, these vivid green cactus shot glasses are pretty as well as fun From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen. co.uk
52 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
ED’S CHOICE
6
SHOPPING
9
8
7
10
6. POTTERING ABOUT
7. DISH IT OUT
8. HANG IN THERE
9. GO FIGURE
10. STRONG AND STRIKING
Rustic jars, from £12 Evoking the finest in Scandinavian artisanal design, these vases feature subtle variations in colour and texture that make each piece unique From Brissi, 38 Milsom Street, Bath; www.brissi.com
Moroccan bowl, £20 If you prefer character over perfection, then you’ll like this weathered Moroccan bowl from an eclectic treasure trove of vintage, salvaged and reclaimed furniture From Mebyl, 4 Cleveland Terrace, Bath; www.mebyl.co.uk
Himmeli planters, £17.50 each Bathford-based Hayley Breen (whose wares can be found in shops such as Leak in Larkhall, and Article in Bath) hand-makes these geometric hanging planters From GeoAttic, Bathford; www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ GeoAttic
Bronze sculpture, £2,300 Sara Ingleby-MacKenzie has been sculpting since 1982, when she graduated from Bath Academy of Art. This bronze, called Breezy, features a woman bracing against the elements From David Simon Contemporary, 3 – 4 Bartlett Street, Bath; www. davidsimoncontemporary.com
Lucille sideboard, £7,392 This sophisticated unit is a strong and striking piece, but its spherical, brushedbrass feature legs give it a delicate finish From Etons of Bath, 108 Walcot Street, Bath; www.etonsofbath.com
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 53 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 69
Nยบ Twelve Queen Street Bath, Somerset BA1 1HE
PERIOD AND CONTEMPORARY DESIGN DECORATION AND FURNITURE CAROLE ROBERTS โ ข CAROLINE KONTOS BATH 01225 462363
EMAIL interiors@twelvedesign.co.uk WEB: www.twelvedesign.co.uk
WAINSCOT INTERIORS Makers of Handcrafted Architectural Joinery and Interiors
Panelling | Staircases | Libraries & Studies | Doors | Liners | Architrave | Built In Storage
THE BEAUTY OF WOOD THROUGH TRADITIONAL SKILLS
www.wainscotinteriors.co.uk
info@wainscotinteriors.co.uk
01458 272633
56 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
a d v e r ti s i n g feat u r e F Ly i n g p i g r e n o vat i o n s
flying pig renovations
T
he Flying Pig Renovation Company specialises in the renovation of prestigious properties within Bath and the surrounding area. A family business owned by Andy, Sharon, Zak and Kye Paradise, the Flying Pig Company combines the local knowledge that enables them to meet the challenges presented by a UNESCO World Heritage site, together with a passionate commitment to customer service and focus on fine attention to detail. “The key to what we do is taking beautiful historic buildings and re-energizing them to create fresh new homes” says Andy. “The crucial thing is to blend the heritage features of a listed property with the standards of modern living. This is always a challenge in terms of both practicalities and creative design – a challenge we relish and enjoy.” A great example of a Flying Pig development is this luxury development at Somerset Place in central Bath. “When it came to the brief the client had a clear view of exactly what they wanted in terms of style and design and the materials to be used,” says Andy. “Taking about nine months in total to complete the project required all the knowledge and experience we’ve learned through decades of property development. To see the end result – a tired dilapidated building turned into an amazing home – is truly inspirational and exciting. “That’s how we achieve the best possible results. We don’t want to lose period character; we want to enhance it. Equally, a home shouldn’t be a museum, so our renovations are also geared towards creating vibrant, exciting spaces that are a pleasure to live in. “Our vast experience has grounded us firmly in the practicalities. The first step is always working out what needs to be done along with acquiring listed building consent and planning permission. We will then draw up plans and designs that are bold and imaginative, yet also sympathetic to the building in question. Inevitably many original features will have been damaged or lost but where possible cornices, fireplaces, doors and staircases will be carefully restored. Plumbing and electrics will be brought up to modern standards. “The final weeks of any project are vital and require skill, patience and an acute eye for detail. Whether through sumptuous wallpaper, subtle paints, bespoke joinery, handmade furniture or clever lighting we will deliver on the vision and immaculate standards our customers deserve. “Through every stage of the project our uniquely qualified project management team will deliver a professional and personable service. Clients can expect a full schedule of works and a constant communication to ensure the project comes in on budget, time and to the exacting standards we pride ourselves on. “We’ve specialised in everything from full Georgian town houses and Victorian villas through to country estates and manor houses. Our ethos is to provide our clients with a project that is delivered to the highest possible standards incorporating the best materials and craftsman in the local area to achieve the perfect home.”
Unit 2, Locksbrook Works, Locksbrook Road, Bath BA1 3EN 01225 420370; andy@flyingpiginbath.co.uk www.flyingpiginbath.co.uk
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a u d i o v i s u a l adve r tisin g featu r e
COMING HOME Leading AV designer Simon Basford of SB Professional is seeking to increase his client base closer to his home in Westbury
W
ith a background in electronics, electrical engineering and AV design, Simon Basford is a leading designer and installer of bespoke audio-visual systems providing solutions for commercial and residential clients. SB Professional troubleshoot existing systems for clients as well as provide solutions for new builds and refurbishments, covering a wide range of services: ● Advanced Security Systems ● CCTV ● Door Entry Solutions and Access Control ● Asset Tracking Solutions ● Energy Management ● Eco Solutions ● New House purchase technology overviews ● Sky/TV/Satellite issues/installation ● IT problem-solving ● Telephone systems ● Mobile telephone range issues ● Incorporating existing customer hardware into a new property ● Hidden wires, systems and technology reducing the impact on designer lines and the look of a room ● Control from a central system and remotes ● Lighting Control ● Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning control ● Film, File, Picture storage ● Bespoke, Luxury Home Cinema Design and Installation ● Multi room audio packages ● Bathroom systems and televisions ● Outdoor AV and music With over 10 years’ experience in the AV industry, Simon is actively seeking to increase the client base closer to home near Bath and in the surrounding areas. Having worked in central 58 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Simon Basford of SB Professional
“SB Professional provide a high grade of individual service with lifetime solutions that can adapt to a family’s growing needs” London for the last eight years and commuting, the opportunity of less travelling and servicing local communities and clients is a welcome prospect. Simon has always loved playing with technology and hardware and it seemed
natural to seek a role in the industry on leaving the forces. He worked for an AV company in Wiltshire for a few years, travelling all over the UK, clients’ holidays homes in the Caribbean and Europe before taking the leap of starting his own business. This led to installation and design opportunities in the south of England and central London. No two days are the same, especially when his current role encompasses liaising with clients, on-site trades people, interior designers and architects. He can be sitting down discussing a client’s requirements for one room with music, to a television in the bathroom, to the in-depths of a full-scale home refurbishment. Many different hats are required! When first meeting clients it is vital that the individual’s needs are specifically tailored to. Simon takes into account a client’s capacity for modern technology, so that the resulting solution is both appropriate and comfortable for the client and fits the required budget and timeframes. Hence, SB Professional provide a high grade of individual service with lifetime solutions that can adapt to a family’s growing needs and workspace changes. As Simon says: “I have immensely enjoyed the last 10 years with clients face-to-face, finding solutions, troubleshooting and exploring new technologies and hardware. I look forward to assisting clients closer to home within the Wiltshire and Somerset areas along with our existing clients in central London.”
SB Professional Services Wiltshire, BA13 01373 858528 melissa@simonbasford.com www.simonbasford.com
G A R D E N S A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E
THE BEST INVESTMENT DECISION YOU’LL EVER MAKE – YOUR GARDEN! HEGARTY WEBBER explain why now is the perfect time to think about that garden makeover
I
s your garden dull, uninspiring and really in need of a makeover? If so, then quite possibly you have neither the right plants nor the right garden design. So now is the perfect time to put that right by calling The Hegarty Webber Garden Design Partnership! "The whole process was hugely enjoyable. We were immediately delighted with the results, a delight that has continued with each year. Our only regret – we should have done it years ago," says one satisfied customer.
Now is the time to use these grey winter months to prep for the summer. In spring designers’ and landscapers’ phones will be ringing off the hook! We believe that gardens should be all year round beauty and pleasure zones. And whether your garden is large or small, in town or country, we will achieve that for you. As two creative garden designers working together as a great team, we pay meticulous attention to your brief and the design detail, and will make your garden project fun and enjoyable. "The whole process has been a joy," reports a very happy customer. "Lesley and Robert’s design is exactly what we wanted – only better. We are both delighted with our garden.'" Aside from our design flair we are also professionally trained horticulturalists to botanic garden level. So you can be wholly sure that your planting scheme will be second to none. Visit our website for pictures of the beautiful gardens we have designed and look forward to those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer!
01934 853 273 lesley.hegarty@btconnect.com www.hegartywebberpartnership.com
Bath’s leading marble and granite company for over 30 years
Showroom open 8am - 5pm Monday to Friday and Saturday 9am - 12.30pm Tel: 01761 412934 info@hobbsmarbleandgranite.co.uk • www.hobbsmarbleandgranite.co.uk Kitchen worktops • Bathrooms • Fireplaces • Bespoke templating and fitting service • Memorials
Raise your bathroom specification with brands you can rely on CONTACT US TODAY FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION
At Keystone Contracts we work with property developers, architects, quantity surveyors, contractors and designers at any stage of the build program. We guarantee to deliver the best specification for your budget. Unit 1 Oldland Business Units, 33 Barry Road, Oldland Common, Bristol, BS30 6QX 0845 2996422 | www.keystonecontracts.co.uk | sales@keystonecontracts.co.uk
Atelier Cabinet Makers Bespoke Kitchens, Furniture and Design Sherborne, Dorset 07773 701812 | 01963 220147 | info@ateliercabinetmakers.com ateliercabinetmakers.com
T H E C U R TA I N E X C H A N G E For the best dressed windows
IN BATH
11 Widcombe Parade, Bath, BA2 4JT | Tel: 01225 422078 | Email: curtainexchange@live.co.uk www.curtainexchangebath.co.uk
Fireplace, Stove and Chimney specialists
As Bath’s principle Chesney’s dealer visit our showroom to see their latest range of woodburning stoves and fire surrounds. Our range of contemporary Hwam stoves and Jetmaster fires can also be viewed.
Mendip Fireplaces (Bath) Monkton Combe Mill, Monkton Combe, Bath, BA2 7HD Tel. 01225 722706 Fax. 01225 722729 Email. info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk
Q UAL IT Y K ITC H E N FAC E LI F T S
REFRESH YOUR TIRED OLD KITCHEN THIS SPRING! NEW BRADFORD ON AVON SHOWROOM OPENING FEB 2018
Why replace when you can reface?
• The whole process managed from design to completion • Huge choice of doors, worktops, appliances, sinks and taps
Call Paul For a Free Estimate: 01225 685141 Email: bathregion@dreamdoors.co.uk www.dreamdoors.co.uk
Est.1999
Carpets
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Image shows, Karndean Luxury Vinyl Design Tiles
Commercial
KITCHENS | EXTENSIONS | CARPENTRY | BUILDING
07977 186746 artisancarpentry.co | steve@artisancarpentry.co
contemporary kitchen spaces
emersonliving
Kitchen design studio in Bath, call for viewing appointments
01225 571943
www.emersonliving.co.uk
your space, your way.
JA
NU 20 ARY % OF SAL FE ES VE TA RY RT TH S 2 IN ND G
ANTIQUE AND MODERN CARPETS BOUGHT, SOLD REPAIRED AND CLEANED 25 YEARS IN BATH LARGEST SELECTION IN THE SOUTH WEST
High quality • Bespoke • Built to order Features include: Belfast sinks, cast iron exterior lights, Farrow and Ball painted panelling, fold away table and chairs, built in storage space, plug in cooking hobs and TV points, LPG gas boiler, fully functioning bathroom with walk-in shower. Avon Farm, Avon Lane, Saltford, Bristol, BS31 3ET T: 07983 439782 / 07967 442267
9 8 W A L C OT S T R E E T, B AT H B A 1 5 B G
E: info@greendown-shepherd-huts.co.uk
T E L 0 1 2 2 5 4 6 9 2 4 0 E M A I L C O N TA C T @ H A L I D E N . C O M
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W W W. H A L I D E N . CO M
craftsmanship means FOCUSING ON F I N E D E TA I L S A N D TA K I N G T H E T I M E TO M A K E E V E R Y J O B O U T S TA N D I N G
SEE CHECK A TRADER AND GOOGLE REVIEW F O R 5 « R AT I N G S OPENING TIMES M O N D AY – F R I D AY 8.00AM – 5.00PM S AT U R D AY 9.00AM – 12.30PM |
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E: INFO@MARBLESUPREME.COM
Visit orientalrugsofbath.com or call 01761 451764 at Bookbarn International, Wells Rd, Hallatrow, Bristol, BS39 6EX
JANUARY SALE
50% OFF SELECTED ITEMS
h e at i n g s e r v i c e s a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e
the apprentice John Williams Heating Services is a local business that cares about and supports young people
H
ave you ever marked National Apprenticeship Week? In 2018 the national awareness week runs from 5 – 9 March – and is a time for celebrating the value apprenticeships bring to small businesses. Do you ever consider when working with a local company what they do in return for their local community? At John Williams Heating Services, we take apprenticeships very seriously and have done since we began. Founder John Williams was an apprentice himself before becoming a qualified heating engineer. Recently the team has seen Georgina Williams, achieve a milestone in her own career. Georgina now works as the office manager at the company which is run by her parents John and Debbie. Georgina has studied and worked for two years to attain a Level 3 Diploma in Business Administration. She says: “It has been a long journey and a very worthwhile experience. I have gained a much wider knowledge of business and
a wealth of experience whilst also studying at the same time.” Georgina is one of five apprentices currently employed within the team based on the Bumpers Farm Industrial Estate in Chippenham. Debbie Williams, co-founder of the company, is passionate about promoting apprenticeships to young people as an important route to a successful career. Debbie says: “Apprentices are such valuable members of our team and it’s amazing to be able to see them grow and mature in knowledge and experience. Georgina has brought so much to us too – from fine-tuning our processes through to teaching us many aspects of efficient administration. It’s not just about what we can do for an apprentice, it’s equally about what they can do for us.” Georgina now plans to go on to study Accountancy Level 3 with the Association of Accounting Technicians and wishes to become a fully qualified accountant. “I’ve realised I enjoy working with numbers so I’m excited to be able to go on and gain more qualifications and knowledge,” she adds.
We’ll be talking a lot about apprenticeships and their value during National Apprenticeship Week 2018. This year’s theme is Apprenticeships Work, showcasing how apprenticeships work for individuals, employers, the community and the wider economy.
Bumper’s Farm Industrial Estate Chippenham, Wiltshire SN14 6LH www.jwheating.co.uk; 01249 709024
CURTAINS | BLINDS | CUSHIONS | ACCESSORIES | UPHOLSTERY SUPPLIERS OF A LARGE SELECTION OF QUALITY FABRICS
HANDMADE, MEASURING & FITTING SERVICE
The Workshop,10 St. Martins Park, Marshfield SN14 8PQ Tel: 01225 891844 www.fabricandflair.co.uk
SOVEREIGN DAMP & TIMBER LTD We offer a comprehensive service for all kinds of damp proofing, basement waterproofing, timber treatment and specialist replastering.
Tel: 01249 716161 | Tel: 01225 811222 1 Ingoldmells Court, Edinburgh Way, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 9XN www.sovereigndpc.co.uk |ross@sovereigndpc.co.uk
Curtains • Blinds • Cushions • Teepees • Interior Design
+44 (0) 7446 983 383 laura@lauracampbelldesigns.com www.lauracampbelldesigns.com a @lauracampbelldesigns
NEW YEAR SALE STARTS JANUARY 3RD
Electrical Contractors & Solar PV Specialists Tel: 01225 438777 - Mobile: 07790 977156 Email: info@paulhussey.co.uk www.paulhussey.co.uk
Closed Mon & Thurs. Open Tues, Weds & Fri, Sat, 10.00 - 4.00
INTERIORS
DIRECTORY
Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for winter
Architects, builders and construction Bath Stonemasons 07968 697091 www.bathstonemasons.co.uk Experts when it comes to natural stone and restoration BBA Architects Henrietta Mews, Bath 01225 460427 www.bba-architects.co.uk 25-year-old business with experience in a broad range of architectural and construction projects Casa Architects Toll Bridge Road, Bath 01225 851871 www.casa-architects.co.uk Established Bath-based practice combining original contemporary design with sustainable principles DR Vowles and Son Upper Weston Farm, Weston Bath; 01225 425232 www.drvowlesandson.co.uk Builders and roofing repairs Esmond Murray Architects 21 Van Diemen’s Lane, Bath 01225 447165 www.esmondmurrayarchitects. com. Award-winning Chartered RIBA Practice formed in 1991 with a new approach to private client residential design bringing together architecture, interior design, landscape architecture and project management The Flying Pig Renovation Company Unit 2, Locksbrook Works Locksbrook Road, Bath 01225 420370 www.flyingpiginbath.co.uk The business refurbishes and renovates client-owned housing to an exceptional standard, offering innovative design, bespoke craftsmanship and a commitment to using only the best materials
Hawker Joinery North End, Batheaston, Bath 01225 858233 www.hawker-joinery.co.uk The oldest established joinery business in Bath, with a reputation for quality service and workmanship. Specialising in doors, interiors and cabinetry The Hegarty Webber Partnership 01934 853273 www.hegartywebberpartnership. com. Bespoke garden and landscape designers John Williams Heating Services 01249 709024 www.jwheating.co.uk Heating and boiler installations and repair Nook of Bath 07733 102671 www.nookofbath.co.uk High-quality property management services Norton Masonry 38 Long Barnaby, Midsomer Norton, Radstock; 01761 419422 www.nortonmasonryltd.co.uk Stonework specialists and general builders Paul Hussey 01225 438777 www.paulhussey.co.uk Electrical contractor and solar PV specialist Rock Pools and Spas 86 Westbury Leigh, Westbury 0333 6009001 www.rockpoolsandspas.co.uk Design and servicing of spas and hot tubs SKD Lofts 07976 200956 www.skdlofts.co.uk Loft conversion specialists Sovereign Damp Proofing 01249 716161
76 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
www.sovereigndpc.co.uk Comprehensive service for all kinds of damp-proofing
Courses and workshops
Bathrooms
The Marmalade House The Loft, 1 –2 Bartlett Street, Bath 01225 445855 www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk Learn how to paint furniture at their popular Annie Sloan courses
Bathrooms at No 5 12a Trim Street, Bath 5 The Shambles, Bradford on Avon; 01225 309110 www.bathbathrooms.com Specialists in the supply of bathrooms in Bath and the surrounding areas Ripples Chelsea House, London Road, Bath; 01225 447971 www.ripples.ltd.uk Ripples has been creating award-winning luxury designer bathrooms for decades
Get the look at Hobsons|choice
Curtains, blinds, shutters and soft furnishings Aspect Window Styling 1 Saracen Street, Bath 01225 469559 www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk Blinds, shutters, awnings, curtains, poles and accessories
The Curtain Exchange 11 Widcombe Parade, Bath 01225 422078 www.thecurtainexchange.co.uk A wide range of bespoke and ready-made curtains and blinds Fabric & Flair 10 St Martin’s Park Marshfield, Chippenham 01225 891844 www.fabricandflair.co.uk Making and fitting beautiful curtains, blinds and accessories for over 20 years Laura Campbell Designs 07446 983383 www.lauracampbelldesigns.com Curtains, Roman blinds, cushions and bespoke tepees
Fireplaces and Woodburners Mendip Fireplaces The Old Mill, Mill Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath; 01225 722706 www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk Fireplace, stove and chimney specialists with a range of open fires, wood-burning and gas stoves, cookers and fire surrounds Rudloe Stoneworks Leafield Stoneyard, Potley Lane Corsham; 01225 816400 www.rudloe-stone.com Supply and install wood-burning stoves, electric/gas fires and Bath stone fireplaces RW Knight & Son Castle Farm, Marshfield Chippenham SN14 8HU 01225 891469 www.knight-stoves.co.uk Country showroom stocking wood-burning and multi-fuel stoves, plus flues and accessories
Flooring and carpets Bath Contract Flooring 4 Kingsmead Square, Bath 01225 471888 www.bathcontractflooring.co.uk Specialists in flooring Boniti Dunsdon Road, West Littleton Road, Chippenham; 01225 89200 www.boniti.com Stone flooring, bespoke furniture and custom kitchens
Broadleaf Timber 134 – 136 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 463464 www.broadleaftimber.com Solid wooden floors, plank and parquet, oak flooring, made-tomeasure internal and external oak doors, staircases and joinery Capitol Carpets of Bath 120 – 122 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 333341 www.thecarpet.co.uk A range of affordable carpet and stone flooring Frith Rugs Unit 10 Shield Retail Park Filton, Bristol 01745 584404 www.frithrugs.co.uk Largest selection of Oriental carpets and rugs in the UK Haliden Oriental Carpets 98 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 469240; www.haliden.com Antique oriental carpets, Persian rugs, tribal weavings and antique turkmen carpets Interior Harmony Flooring 5A Chelsea Road, Bath 01225 483818 www.interiorharmony.co.uk Specialists for vinyl, carpet and hardwood flooring, floor sanding and wood floor renovation Mandarin Stone 15 – 16 Broad Street Bath 01225 460033 www.mandarinstone.com Central Bath showroom for natural stone tiles, flooring and stone bathware Oriental Rugs of Bath 1 Hallatrow Business Park Wells Road Hallatrow 01761 451764 www.orientalrugsofbath.com Rugs, kilims and various pieces of furniture Tile & Flooring Bath 1 Mile End London Road West Bath; 01225 310561 www.tileandflooring.co.uk Traditional family-run business specialising in the supply, installation and restoration of flooring from a selection of hundreds of different styles and materials
Etons of Bath specialise in Georgian property decoration
Furniture, interiors and homeware shops Avenida Home 27 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 571718 www.avenidahome.com Classic home accessories The Bath Framer 7 Walcot Buildings, London Road Bath; 01225 920210 www.thebathpictureframer.co.uk High-quality framing services Dible & Roy Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon 01225 862320 www.dibleandroy.co.uk Fabrics, flooring and furniture at their two-storey showroom The Fig Store 76 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 428031 www.thefigstore.com Stylish homewares, linens, industrial lighting, glassware and vintage furniture Framecraft 2 – 3 Green Park Station, Green Park Road, Bath www.framecraftonline.com 01225 447072 Full range of framing services The Framing Workshop 80 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 482748 www.theframingworkshop.com Box framing, glass and perspex boxes, hand-finished and gilded frames and more
Graham and Green 92 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 418300 www.grahamandgreen.co.uk Exceptional range of furniture and home accessories in a global, glamorous, individual and lifeenhancing style Leekes Beanacre Park, Melksham 0845 0508240; www.leekes.co.uk Quality furniture, electricals, home accessories and more Old Bank Antiques Centre 16 – 17 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; 01225 338813 www.oldbankantiquescentre.com Antiques and decorative items Perfect Rooms, Interiors and Upholstery Silver Street, Gastard, Corsham 01249 716455 www.perfectrooms.co.uk Fabrics, carpets, wallpaper, furniture, homeware and gifts Waller & wood 4 Abbey Green, Bath www. wallerandwood.co.uk Paintings and ceramics Rossiters 38 – 41 Broad Street, Bath; 01225 462227; www.rossitersofbath.com Offering quality furniture, accessories, fabrics, plus an interior design service Silcox Son & Wicks 5 – 7 New Bath Street, Bath 01225 463933; www.silcox.co.uk Eclectic collection of furnishing gems to suit a range of tastes w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 77
INTERIORS Sofa.com 5 – 6 The Corridor, Bath; 0333 006 3262; www.sofa.com Large selection of sofas, armchairs and chairs
Furniture makers Artisan Carpentry 07977 186746 www.artisancarpentry.co Master carpenter with wide experience in cabinetry, joinery and associated building projects J Smith Woodwork Staffords Green, Corton Denham Sherborne; 01963 220147 www.jsmithwoodworkshop. squarespace.com Bespoke handmade kitchens, furniture and design Wainscot Interiors Unit 3, Canvin Court Somerton Business Park Bancombe Road, Somerton 01458 272633 www.wainscotinteriors.co.uk Extensive experience in the manufacture, finishing and installation of period architectural joinery, oak panelling and bespoke furniture
Home entertainment Moss of Bath 45 St James’s Parade, Bath 01225 331441 www.mossofbath.co.uk Independent home entertainment retailer and solution provider SB Professional Services 01373 858528 www.simonbasford.com Integrated audio-visual technology solutions for the home. Full range of IT and security consultancy services
Interior design Clair Strong Interior Design Ltd Walcot Studio, Old Orchard 88a Walcot Street, Bath 01225 426905/07855 797311 www.clairstrong.co.uk Innovative design for commercial and residential settings both large and small Etons of Bath 108 Walcot Street, Bath
01225 639002 www.etonsofbath.com New showroom offering full range of interior design services No Twelve Queen Street 12 Queen Street, Bath 01225 462363 www.twelvedesign.co.uk Truly personal design service focusing on private residential, hotel and commercial work Woodhouse & Law 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill Bath; 01225 428072 www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk Full interior design service; will advise on and source fabrics, furniture, bathrooms and kitchens
Kitchens The Bath Kitchen Company 22 Hensley Road, Bath 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk Family business designing unique, beautiful and functional kitchens for over 20 years Ben Argent Design 01225 448330 www.benargentdesign.com Beautiful bespoke kitchens designed to inspire Devizes Fine Kitchens 11 – 12 Northgate Street Devizes 01380 721772 www.devizesfinekitchens.com Dedicated to the design and production of high quality bespoke kitchens and craft furniture Elmore Kitchens 5 Saracen Street, Bath 01225 335600 www.elmorekitchens.com Inspirational kitchens and living spaces Emerson Living 3 Brassmill Enterprise Centre Bath 01225 571943 www.emersonliving.co.uk Bespoke, contemporary kitchens and modern interiors Hobsons|choice London Road Bath 01225 433511 www.hobsonschoice.uk.com The Bath showroom is dedicated
78 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Cole & Son wallpaper (available at Rossiters of Bath) isn’t just for walls, you know…
to kitchen manufacturer Bulthaup, complemented by Carl Hansen furniture Homemaker Design 8 Pulteney Avenue, Bath 01225 481881 www.myhomemaker.co.uk Contemporary kitchens at competitive prices Schmidt Bath 1 Park Road, Bath; 01225 337276 www.home-design.schmidt/en-gb Over 30 years of experience in high-end kitchen design
Lighting Antique Textiles and Lighting Lansdown Road, Bath 01225 310795 www.antiquesofbath.com Antique shop specialising in period textiles, embroideries, quilts, antique lighting and chandeliers Lumos 07909 227 498 www.lumos-lighting.co.uk Exterior of homes lighting
Worktops, surfaces and doors Dream Doors Suite 4 Lansdowne Business Park
Bumpers Way, Bumpers Farm Chippenham Wiltshire 01225 685430 www.dreamdoors.co.uk Made-to-measure new replacement kitchen doors, drawers, worktops and accessories in a wide range of styles and colours Hobbs Marble & Granite Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton 01761 412934 www.hobbsmarbleand granite.co.uk Granite, marble, slate, travertine and quartz products Marble Supreme Unit 8, Bridge Road Bristol 0117 956 3030 www.marblesupreme.com Bristol-based supplier of granite, marble and quartz stone worktops and flooring The Marble Works of Bath Locksbrook Yard Upper Bristol Road Bath 01225 780062 www.marbleworksofbath.com Marble and granite consultants, designers and suppliers
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Music/theatre/film/more
SCARLET WOMAN
When we saw this jaunty Mo Lancaster linocut, we just had to wonder if visitors to Bath, coming into the city by train, could possibly be as stylish as this? Mo, a Somerset teacher and member of both the Society of Women Artists and Bath Society of Artists, is known for her bold pieces and knack of capturing women having
fun. But that doesn’t mean her work lacks finesse – take a look at the shading providing detail in this piece Lady in Red. Her Linocuts exhibition can be seen at the Victoria Art Gallery, Bath, from 13 January – 14 March. www.victoriagal.org.uk
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 81
24 December – 22 January
The fragile art of paper cutting at The Holburne; this railway poster features in Entertainment in Bath; Tom Kerridge gets lean at Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath
Exhibitions U N TI L 3 1 D E C E M BE R
THE NATURAL WORLD The paintings reflect the transience of light’s impact on the landscape and the colour transformations it creates through the seasons. The artist’s vibrant work is inspired by the landscape, the natural world and the effect this has on the human spirit. Emma Rose; www.emmaroseartworks.com U N TI L 1 J ANUARY
A HISTORY OF FASHION IN 100 OBJECTS Features garments and fashion accessories that created ‘the look’ in history or hit the headlines. Includes a late 1500s ‘blackwork’
embroidered man’s shirt, dating from the time of the Spanish Armada, and a ‘bodycon’ Galaxy dress of the early 2000s, plus a jacket worn by Vivien Leigh. Fashion Museum; www.fashionmuseum.co.uk U N TI L 7 JA N UAR Y
HOWARD HODGKIN: INDIA ON PAPER Until his recent death, Howard Hodgkin, one of the foremost artists of our time, nurtured positive relations with Bath through exhibitions and acquisitions. This unique exhibition celebrates these connections whilst exploring his love affair with India, which he visited for the first time in 1964. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk
82 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
UNTIL 7 J ANUAR Y
WILLIAM ROSE: THE DEVIL MADE THE COOK The Bath-based artist’s vision, expressed in this series of extraordinary paintings inspired by cooks, delves into the world of the subconscious and mysterious. The ingredients are ironic and mystical, the impact disturbing and humorous. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk UNTIL 7 J ANUAR Y
WINTER WONDERLAND Enjoy the spirit of winter with this ever-changing selection of new work, plus festive decorations, cards and jewellery. The Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk
UNTIL 18 J ANUARY
ART AT THE HEART OF THE RUH This exhibition showcases the artistic talents of hospital staff and volunteers. 8am; Central Gallery, RUH; www.artatruh.org UNTIL 21 J ANUARY
SEURAT TO RILEY: THE ART OF PERCEPTION Seeing is no longer believing in this exhibition from some of the last two centuries’ greatest optical illusionists. 10am; £9/£10; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org UNTIL 25 F EB RUARY
MICHAEL PETRY: IN THE REALM OF THE GODS Delve into the mystical undercurrents of Bath with
W H AT ’ S O N
ARTS
Posting Letters To The Moon at The Ustinov; Hetty Feather and her circus skills at the Theatre Royal Bath
an eerie, compelling artistic exploration of the city’s ley lines. 10am; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org 1 3 J ANUARY – 1 4 MA RCH
ENTERTAINMENT IN BATH This exhibition is based on works in the gallery’s collection, as well as loans from the National Portrait Gallery and Royal Collection Trust, and depicts the creative stars of Georgian Bath and the venues where they performed. It touches upon some of the less obvious ‘entertainments’ in the city, from gambling and prostitution to learned societies and fashionable chapels. The story is brought upto-date with pop concerts at the Pavilion and elsewhere in Bath. The Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk
Plays/Shows U N TI L 6 JA NUAR Y
LIVING SPIT’S NATIVITY With a mix of silly songs, pitiful puppetry and more biblical befuddlement that you can shake a figgy pudding at, this nativity promises to be a cornucopia of comic Christmassy crudeness. Age 16+. 8pm; £15/£12; The Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 1 0 – 1 1 JA N UAR Y
PIANOHOOD The opening line: “I used to play this with my dad,” sets the tone for a masterful interweaving of stories and music from Will Pickvance. 8pm; £15/£12; The Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk
12 – 13 J ANUAR Y
MONSTER Masculinity is explored in this new play, weaving together voices – including Mike Tyson’s and Patrick Stewart’s – into this epic one-man play where heroes clash with villains and men become monsters. 8pm; £15/£12; The Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org
with life, angry with his friends, angry with his wife and the world. Indulged, talented, intelligent and loved Jimmy is none the less dissatisfied and frustrated in this strong two-hour theatre performance. Various times; £12.50/£10.50; The Mission theatre; www. missiontheatre.co.uk 18 – 20 J ANUARY
16 – 20 J ANUAR Y
BLOOD BROTHERS Willy Russell’s captivating and poignant tale of twins, separated at birth, and the fateful consequences that follow when they meet in later life. Various times and prices; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org 16 – 20 J ANUAR Y
LOOK BACK IN ANGER Jimmy Porter is angry; angry
POSTING LETTERS TO THE MOON A romantic, funny and touching portrait of life in the early 40s, with readings from letters between Brief Encounters actress Celia Johnson and her explorer husband Peter Fleming who worked abroad in wartime military intelligence – felt to be as far away as the moon. Various times; £15/£12; The Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk w
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 83
ARTS
W H AT ’ S O N
Familial exuberance from Blood Brothers 22 JANUARY – 2 4 JA N UA RY
SHOWSTOPPER! THE IMPROVISED MUSICAL Watch a brand-new musical comedy created from scratch as each performance is created from audience suggestions, with hilarious results. Various times and prices; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org
Music 1 – 2 JANUARY
WEST OF ENGLAND YOUTH ORCHESTRA An evening of Leonard Bernstein’s greatest hits awaits from some of the region’s most talented musicians. Various times; £9/15; Wiltshire Music Centre; www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk 19 JANUARY
BORN TO RUN Sadly not Bruce Springsteen but perhaps the next best thing, The Boss UK bringing intensity and realism, plus hits including Dancing in the Dark and Born in the U.S.A. 7pm; £14; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk
1 9 JA N UA RY
THE ROY ORBISON STORY Join Barry Steel and friends as they pay homage to the Big O, with an authentic sound and toetapping tunes. 7pm; £22; The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk
11am; £14-20; Wiltshire Music Centre; www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk
Family UNTIL 30 DEC EMBER
KING KING Nominated for Best New Band at the Classic Rock Awards, King King bring their brand of rousing rock to Bath. 7pm; £20; The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk
GLICE SKATING Glice – that’s synthetic ice to you and me – brings its familyfriendly rink to Keynsham, limited to 45 people per session so you can unleash your inner Torvill and Dean. Various times; £10; Avon Valley Adventure Park; www.avonvalley.co.uk
2 0 JA N UA RY
UNTIL 30 DEC EMBER
2 0 JA N UA RY
Thorpe from Absolutely Fabulous and Nick Wilton from EastEnders. Various times and prices; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk UNTIL 7 J ANUARY
AURORA Up in the frozen night sky something is happening, with a flurry of colour and a twinkling of stars. But will anyone notice if one star loses its sparkle in this multisensory adventure? For six months to four-years-old. Various times; £8.50/£7.50; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk UNTIL 7 J ANUARY
AN EVENING WITH PHILLIP DYSON The master pianist will tickle the ivories for this evening of classics from Beethoven to Waller. 8:30pm; £15; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org
VICTORIAN CAROUSEL Enjoy some festal magic and create some lovely family memories on the carousel in the heart of Bath. Various times; Stall Street UNTIL 7 J ANUAR Y
2 0 – 2 1 JA N UAR Y
BRADFORD ROOTS MUSIC FESTIVAL Pop and poetry in this celebration of local talent, along with workshops, children’s activities, and delicious local food.
84 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS Traditional family panto with thigh-slapping fun, comedy, singing, dancing and plenty of audience participation. Stars Bath’s Jon Monie, Harriet
THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHT Enjoy the magic of stories with this winter fest, back with stunning Chinese lantern scenes capturing the magic of 16 classic tales of old, including Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Rapunzel’s lofty tower and the sensational gingerbread cottage from Hansel and Gretel. Various times and prices; Longleat; www.longleat.co.uk UNTIL 14 J ANUARY
LITTLE MERMAID Venture thousands of leagues w
Celebrate New Year No.15 House Party For an opulent New Year celebration, with a focus on fabulous food and drink in extraordinary surrounds, No.15 is the venue for you. We’re going all out, so it’s your chance to bring friends, dress up, sip on champagne, enjoy a fabulous five-course feast and revel the night away with dancing until the early hours...
To book simply email enquiries@no15greatpulteney.co.uk, call us on 01225 800509 or visit www.no15greatpulteney.co.uk
t’s the biggest party night of the year so dress-up, indulge in good food and wine and dance your way into 2018; choose between a Hollywood Glitz and Glamour themed evening in Allium or a more informal 70s affair in Igloo.
Email: events@abbeyhotelbath.co.uk Call: 01225 805895 Visit: abbeyhotelbath.eventcube.io
ARTS
W H AT ’ S O N
under the sea for this tale of five young mermaids. But one, Morgan, has an enquiring mind and feels she just doesn’t fit in. Various times and prices; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 6 AND 2 0 J ANUARY
CHILDREN’S WORKSHOPS Dive into the world of illusion and introduce five to 13-yearolds to the mind-bending art of Georges Seurat and Bridget Riley. 10.30am; £10; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org 9 – 1 3 J ANUARY
HETTY FEATHER Bath-born Jacqueline Wilson is one of the best writers for young people, with her plucky heroine brought to life as she escapes the Foundling Hospital and sets off on an adventure. Various times and prices; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 20 JANUARY
INSTALLATION ART WORKSHOP GCSE and A-level art students are invited to explore the museum’s dazzling and original contemporary art installations by veteran artist Lucia Harley. 10am; £30; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org 20 – 2 1 J ANUARY
TREASURE ISLAND Ahoy me hearties – join Jim Hawkins and friends as they set out in search of buried treasure. But Long John Silver is in hot pursuit so expect a riot of songs and slapstick. 2.30pm; various prices; The Rondo; www.rondotheatre.co.uk
What it means to be a man is explored in Monster
Other 3 1 D E CE MBE R
NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION See in the New Year with plenty of laughter from stand-up comedians at the Krater Comedy Club, followed by nonstop fun, dancing and music with Motorcity Gold. Various times and prices; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk
24 – 2 7 J ANUARY
PUSS IN BOOTS Traditional family pantomime with laughs and plenty of fun. Various times; £9/£7; St Philip & St James Church, Bath; www.stphilipstjames.org 24 JANUARY – 1 1 FE BRUA RY
SNOW MOUSE An enchanting winter’s tale featuring a sleeping mouse and a curious child. Cue sliding, tumbling and laughter as they explore together and try and keep warm. Various times and prices; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org
3 1 D E CE MBE R
MASQUERADE BALL Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style with a night of glitz and glamour, a four-course meal from head chef Ben Abercrombie, followed by live music and dancing. 7pm; £95; The Apex; www.apexhotels.co.uk 1 0 JA N UA RY
COLLECTION HIGHLIGHT TOURS Discover the stories behind the gallery’s principal treasures. 1pm; Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk
86 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
10 AND 24 J ANUAR Y
ABOVE AND BELOW TOURS Fascinating new tours taking you through the tunnels that can be found under the baths and adjacent streets. 11am; Roman Baths; www.romanbaths.co.uk
17 J ANUARY
SARA MOORHOUSE AND CHRIS STEPHENS Moorhouse, a gifted ceramicist, joins the museum’s director to discuss the inspirations and principles behind her art. 7pm; £10; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org
11 J ANUAR Y
IS SEEING BELIEVING? Dr Michael Proulx of the University of Bath invites you into the psychology and neuroscience behind art and illusion. 7pm; £10; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org
17 J ANUARY
13 J ANUAR Y
18 J ANUARY
CUT, PATTERN AND MOSAIC WITH PAPER Learn about the stunning work of the Op-art movement and create your own pieces with illustrator Jessica Palmer. 10:30am; £50; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org
ART STORE TOURS Booking is essential for this tour when you join a curator and explore the permanent collection housed in the museum’s art stores. 12pm; Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk AN EVENING WITH TOM KERRIDGE A little of what you fancy does you good and the Michelinstarred chef explains how you can eat well and still lose weight – something he has successfully done himself. 8pm; £8-22; Topping & Co; www.toppingbooks.co.uk
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BATH EVENTS AND FESTIVALS January - July 2018 Bath Bachfest 22nd – 24th February The Workshop, 10 St. Martins Park, Marshfield, SN14 8PQ Tel: 01225 891844 www.fabricandflair.co.uk Have your exisiting alarm systems repaired by
www.bathbachfest.co.uk Bath Life Awards 1st March www.bathlifeawards.co.uk Bath Half Marathon 4th March www.bathhalf.co.uk
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Bath Decorative Antiques Fair 8th -11th March www.bathdecorativeantiquesfair.co.uk Bath Comedy Festival 27th March - 15th April www.bathcomedy.com
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C O C K TA I L B A R & T E R R A C E
The Bath Festival 11th - 28th May 2 Hilly Fields, Corsham, Wiltshire, SN13 9WG
www.bathfestivals.org.uk
Office: 01225 839988 Mob: 7960 047767
The Bath Fringe 25th May – 10th June
E: tom@smart-renovations.co.uk www.smart-renovations.co.uk
www.bathfringe.co.uk Iford Arts Festival 26th May – 4th Aug www.ifordarts.org.uk The Royal Bath and West Show 30th May – 2nd June
Your Food, Our Passion
www.bathandwest.com/royal-bath-and-west-show The Bath Boules Tournament 10th – 17th June www.bathboules.com
Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EB Tel: 01225 446656 a #MRB
Bath Carnival 21st July
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www.bathcarnival.co.uk orientalrugsofbath.com tel 01761 451764
Specialist Painting All paintwork undertaken including paint effects; wash, patina, faux finish, marbling – £9/m2, murals Stephen Wintershaw
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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E V E T E R I N A RY C A R E
CHRISTMAS AND OUR FURRY FRIENDS You’ll find useful advice, tips and support at BATH VET SURGERIES
S
haring is not caring when it comes to your pets at Christmas with many tasty festive delights on the naughty list for furry family members. Amidst all the mayhem in the kitchen our pets can easily be ignored and so we thought we’d give you some great tips for the Christmas season. To make sure you and your furry friend have a merry Christmas we suggest these simple tips: 1. Toxic Treats – a number of festive treats, such as chocolate, grapes, sweets and liquorice are toxic to cats and dogs. A traditional Christmas meal may contain turkey bones, onions and garlic in gravy or stuffing, and raisins in Christmas pudding, all of which can be fatal if eaten by your pet. 2. Delightful decorations– baubles, ribbons, wrapping paper, tinsel and tree lights can all prove irresistible to cats and dogs but can be very dangerous if broken, chewed or swallowed. Try to keep decorations and Blu Tack out of reach of curious pets. Batteries for Christmas gifts also need to be kept away from pets. If ingested they may cause severe chemical burns to the mouth, throat and stomach. 3. Scrumptious foods – we all enjoy richer foods over Christmas but fatty foods and Christmas dinners shouldn’t be shared with our
beloved furry pets. They can trigger indigestion, sickness and diarrhoea and can worsen conditions from gastroenteritis to pancreatitis. Consider getting them a new toy or taking them for a long walk after dinner instead. These are healthy treats they’ll really enjoy. 4. Toys not treats – We all want our pets to share the fun and many of us include a gift for our pet on the shopping list. But too many treats can lead to fat, unhappy animals so consider opting for a new toy, extra cuddles or a long walk if you want to indulge your pet this Christmas. 5. Know where to go – Even with all the care in the world, animal accidents and emergencies can still happen. We are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at Rosemary Lodge Veterinary Hospital. Just call 01225 832521 and one of our receptionists will be happy to help. From all at Bath Vets, we wish you a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Rosemary Lodge, Wellsway, Bath BA2 5RL 01225 832521 www.bathvetgroup.co.uk f Bath.Vet.Group
OUR CLINICS: • Rosemary Lodge Hospital, Wellsway, Bath, BA2 5RL; 01225 832521 • Bath Cat Clinic, 4 Beaufort East, London Road, BA1 6QD 01225 312061 • Chapel Veterinary Surgery, Forest Road, Melksham, SN12 7AA 01225 702427 • Marshfield Veterinary Surgery, 57 High Street, Marshfield, SN14 8LR 01225 891171 • Oldfield Park Veterinary Surgery, 4 Third Avenue, Oldfield Park, BA2 3NY 01225 423652 • Peasedown Veterinary Surgery, 46 Bath Road, Peasedown St John, BA2 8DL 01761 435673 • Saltford Veterinary Surgery, 478B Bath Road, Saltford, BS31 3DJ 01225 872002 • Station Road Veterinary Surgery, Lower Weston, BA1 3DY; 01225 428921 • Park Road Vets, 11 Park Road, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 1BX 0117 9339 933. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 91
The Framing Workshop has been trading as an independent family run business on Walcot Street for over 28 years. We treasure you, our client, and spend time helping you to find the best way to display and protect your cherished objects, artworks and memorabilia. Creativity and respect for each artwork are core to what we do. Every picture tells a story. Come and share yours.
80 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BD | Tel: 01225 482748 www.theframingworkshop.com framing@theframingworkshop.com
BOOKS
HER SOLUTIONS ARE SO INSPIRING AND EMPOWERING THAT YOU END THE BOOK FULL OF OPTIMISM
A NEW CHAPTER Stuck for a New Year’s resolution? Why not challenge yourself to reading more books – whether as a method of self-betterment, or just for pleasure… By N IC BO T T OM L E Y
N
ew year. New start. New robot body? In To Be a Machine (Granta, £12.99) that’s one of the possibilities that the irrepressibly inquisitive Mark O’Connell explores as he takes a look into the world of the transhumanists. It’s only fair to be open to all new angles as we begin a new year, so let’s take a look. Now, transhumanism might sound like a religious cult, and, to be fair, a few of the folk O’Connell interviews and observes in his mind-blowing book might fit in well in a cult environment, but, in fact, this is a scientific concept. Transhumanists spend their time looking at the possibilities of improving the human condition through technology – from the extreme aim of eternal life to more modest aspirations around higher performance and intellect. O’Connell’s book bears comparison to the essays and escapades of Jon Ronson or the documentary-making of Louis Theroux. After setting out the state of transhumanism and some of its ambitions, O’Connell hits the road to meet some of its champions and the people already making money from those eager to improve themselves beyond nature’s conventional limits. In Arizona, he meets a man whose company can freeze
you (or just your head – it’s far cheaper that way) ready for the day that merging with a robotic body will spring you back to life. Later he spends time with people looking to upload their brains into computer systems to secure and future-proof their knowledge, as well as plenty of eccentric (and often very wealthy) individuals full of optimism for extreme longevity if they can just survive what they believe to be the very few years until digital technology has figured out cures for human ailments. The scepticism and humanity with which O’Connell approaches his subject is what makes this book a joyous as well as an eye-opening and slightly disturbing read. Perhaps my favourite moment was his seemingly incongruous description of an insufferably smug transhumanist key-note speaker at a conference fumbling around in his shirt for a dropped pistachio. A few pages later the purpose of the passage is revealed – only a human could have included in a book such a pointless slice of ridicule. The AI writers that the speaker in question believes will render most creative talents like O’Connell redundant would never stoop so low. And would therefore never be as entertaining to read. If going robot feels a little extreme as a new year mission, then how about
ARTS
tapping into a bit of old-school grit and determination to boost your 2018 performance? Hard work has been a bit out of fashion in some parts recently – the tedious-sounding counterpoint to natural talent, genetic make-up, intellect or a harmonious psychological approach to any given challenge. But in Grit (Vermilon, £9.99), Angela Duckworth puts hard graft front and centre and shows just how far it can take us. The central tenet of Duckworth’s work is a brilliantly inclusive one: anyone can succeed if they approach their life and work with grit, and anyone can learn grit. First she explores the components of this elusive characteristic, taking it from an amorphous concept to something more comprehensible – an ability to try, to bounce back from failures, to retain equilibrium when faced with setbacks. Then she moves on to show just how important a never-know-yourbeaten streak really is, through analysis of many uber-successful types and by reference to her own childhood blighted by a father who repeatedly wrote her off as “no genius” and who, ultimately, she proved wrong. Finally, a brief word for a book I mentioned in this same spot a couple of years ago but which I feel is worth another shout-out at this time of year. Psychologist Amy Cuddy’s Presence (Little, Brown, £20) looks at how body language and focus can impact on your performance, selfconfidence, self-worth and how others behave towards you. It is essential reading for anyone whose job involves important meetings, to anyone applying for jobs, and, crucially, to anyone with a daughter (or a son, come to that). Cuddy’s findings around how closed and defensive body positions are almost universally regarded by children as female (even when portrayed on anatomically neutral dolls) are jaw-dropping and extremely worrying. But, fortunately, her practical, and scientifically-proven, solutions are so inspiring and empowering that you end the book full of optimism and with a determination to inspire your children to carry themselves into the world with great confidence and poise.
Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; 01225 331155; www.mrbsemporium.com
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FILM
DESPITE THE DARK SIDE NASTINESS, IT’S ALL STILL SIMPLISTIC AND GINGHAM WITH ALL THE GOOD VS BAD STRUGGLES
MAY THE FESTIVE FORCE BE WITH YOU As a child, Ollie Wright had a Star Wars mural painted on his wall, now, at 42, he discusses The Last Jedi with reserved excitement
T
here are tons of wonderful things that make the final wintry weeks of the year so special. Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a very nice turkey. Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without Noddy Holder’s stellar songwriting skills. Christmas didn’t used to be Christmas without a Morecambe and Wise hour-long special. Now we can officially add another unbudgeable festive fixture: new Star Wars films. For folk of a certain age, like me, 42 and a half if you really want to know, our childhoods are a merry blur of four-inch Darths and Leias, hedgerows and sandpits doubling up as rebel hideouts, and mummy’s poshest white tablecloths getting pinched on a regular basis and donned as instant Jedi robes. I had Death Star bedsheets. I had underpants with C3PO’s face on them. I even had a bespoke Star Wars mural painted on my wall by a family friend. (It was a bit odd actually. Chewbacca looked like an obese coconut and his Han Solo bore an uncanny resemblance to John Nettles of Bergerac fame.) Then I grew up and sort of forgot about all things Force-related. Until the late 90s, when the 13th anniversary of the first film came along and mass nostalgia descended. Jumped-up-20-something cineaste that I was at the time, I cocked a very snotty
snoot at all that nostalgia. If people wanted to watch these silly kids films again, fine. If you want me, I’ll be thoroughly engrossed in this award-winning Latvian documentary about octogenarian donkey-breeders. But resistance was massively futile. Seeing A New Hope on the big screen again brought it all back. Yes, I still had reservations. Some of the dialogue is diabolically duff. (Harrison Ford allegedly said of the script to George Lucas, ‘You can type this stuff, but you can’t say it’. He didn’t say ‘stuff’, though. Naughty Harrison.) Leia aside, it’s not a hugely female-friendly universe. And despite the Dark Side nastiness, it’s all still simplistic and gingham with all the good V bad struggles. But then there’s all the stuff Lucas got so majestically right. His masterful squishing of folklore and myth, the dedication to achieving the most fluid technical effects, and the playful interpretation of genres – there’s crunchy bits of westerns here, and cosmic dollops of melodrama there – all added to its stunning success. Two sequels and near world-domination later, and the saga was seemingly over. After 1984, when Return of the Jedi was released, there were a few animated Star Wars TV shows, the occasional novel and two truly insufferable straight-to-video Ewok adventures that would make even the most enthusiastic Force fan burst into tears and run off. Then,
ARTS
New Star Wars films are now unbudgeable festive fixtures
buoyed by the rapturous response of the re-releases, Lucas embarked on a new prequel trilogy. In 1999 excited fans queued weeks in advance to be the first to see Episode 1: The Phantom Menace. All those sleeping bags, all those Pot Noodles, and for what? A bizarre, bafflingly plotted story largely involving arguments about galactic tax returns, featuring annoying new characters that even toddlers would happily hurl expletives at (yes, Mr Binks, we’re talking about you) and an overreliance on effects over emotion, something the original trilogy was always so good at. The next two prequels weren’t received with too much love either. The last 20 minutes or so of Episode III: Revenge of the Sith at least gave the spectacle of how that nice young man Anakin Skywalker finally became the robogoth legend that is Darth Vader, but the overall response by fans was a shrug and a weep here and there. So nobody was getting their hopes up much when George Lucas flogged his Lucasfilm outfit, including all rights to Star Wars, to Disney in 2012. Nobody thought the House of Mouse would do a good job when it announced three new films. And even though Lucas had, in the eyes of fans at least, besmirched the whole sage with his inoffensive yet deathly dull prequels, the thought of the creator not being involved in a new set of films was worrying. The Force Awakens was, against all odds, a box office-battering triumph. Crucially, critics were also full of admiration for how director JJ Abrams managed to keep so close to the spirit of the first film yet update the saga for a new generation of fans. And now there’s the new film. The Last Jedi is directed and written by Rian Johnson, the disgustingly talented megaphone-waver behind indie hits like Brick and the fantastic Bruce Willis time-travel lark Looper. It’s a darker film than The Force Awakens, with some truly astonishing revelations that no space geeks would’ve seen coming, and it sets things up nicely for the as-yet-untitled episode nine, which is coming in December 2020. But don’t worry, next Christmas brings us a standalone Star Wars story chronicling the early adventures of a young Han Solo. May the festive Force be with you.
The Little Theatre, 1 – 2 St Michael’s Place 01225 466822; www.picturehouses.co.uk
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96 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
R E S TA U R A N T
FOOD
The Mint Room With its contemporary culinary twists, upmarket feel, and new rooftop terrace, this fine-dining restaurant is redefining the perception of Indian cuisine, reckons LISA EVANS
I IF YOU
t’s amazing how much the human body can endure. Some run marathons, some scale mountains, some complete Ironman triathlons, but only a select few can succeed in making their way through an 18-dish feast at The Mint Room in Bath. As I’ve already experienced the Indian fine-dining restaurant’s Tour of India menu – one which lets you sample the differing tastes of the country, region by region – owner Moe Rahman says he wants to shake things up for us tonight. He says it’ll be a night of surprises – of new dishes concocted on the spot by head chef Soyful Alom, as well as a couple of randomly selected dishes from both the main menu and the Tour of India. The first course, ‘street food’, is utterly glorious. What arrives is a plate of three different appetisers which I could have happily ordered again for main and dessert. Colour and evocative scents dominate the table as we tuck into them; first there’s pani puri – crispy little puffed balls of pastry stuffed with an addictive mixture of properly seasoned chickpeas, diced potatoes, pomegranate seeds and mint yogurt. Through the hollow in the top, we’re instructed to pour in a shot of tamarind sauce, before gobbling them in one delectable, fruity, saucy, savoury bite. Also on the plate is bhel puri – a sort of marinated Bombay mix, with crunch from puffed rice and toasted peanuts, and moistness from tamarind and mint chutneys – and aloo papadi chaat, a deliciously cooling, creamy dish spun through with the sticky kick of yet more tamarind dressing. Then it’s edible flower-decorated salmon gravadlax with mint and beetroot sauces and an Indian-style slaw, and spinach and cottage cheese kebabs. Following that, it’s quail three ways (egg, honey and mustard-marinated leg, and roast breast) and the most flavoursome, tender paneer and aubergine dish, enriched with layers of soothing spice.
MANAGE TO FINISH ALL THE DISHES, YOU WILL FEEL LIKE AN ABSOLUTE CHAMPION
Lime sorbet and strawberries cleanse the palate, and there’s a brief chance to admire the restaurant in all its sparkling, glittering, glossy, elaborately decorated glory before the real gluttony begins. A group of four of us are dining tonight, and, between us, for our main meal, we are presented with one regularsize dish of spiced, grilled vegetables with a dreamy, punchy, rich coconut and cauliflower sauce, plus two chicken breasts in jalfrezi sauce. Two fillets and a plate of vegetables between four people? For a split second, we exchange glances as if to say ‘Is that it? For all of us?’ But we all agree that we’ve eaten so much already that a small, shared main will be fine. Then, three smiling waiters approach carrying what we’ll call ‘the banquet’. They tricked us! There’s duck lababdar with charred onions; an intensely hot, terrifically aromatic lamb dum biryani sealed under a golden pastry crust; Keralan sea bass moilee served with a velvety coconut milk, mustard seed and curry leaf sauce; and side dishes of herby cumin roast potatoes, creamed spinach with chickpeas, chopped okra, braised rice, and plenty of extra pouring-sauces. Tonight, it’s bucketing with rain outside, but if it wasn’t, we would have certainly had a post-meal drink on the brand-new rooftop terrace. The open-air drinks menu is centered on Piper Heidsieck champagnes, and there’s also a very reasonably priced al fresco food selection – including small plates such as clove-smoked lamb chops, vegetable samosas, and lime and garlic tiger prawns, plus sharing platters. We’re cosy and warm inside this evening, though, and it’s the perfect environment in which to enjoy our dessert: chocolate ganache with saffron, pistachio and cardamom kulfi, coconut ice cream and a roast almond crunch. You can of course do things in a three-course, startermain-dessert kind of way here, but I highly recommend the tasting menu, as it most definitely broadened my horizons, and has (possibly) put an end to my ‘usual’ order of tikka masala, mushroom rice and peshwari naan. And if you manage to finish all the dishes, you will feel like an absolute champion.
DINING DETAILS The Mint Room, Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath, BA2 3EB; 01225 446656; www.mintroombath.co.uk Prices Tasting menu £39 per person; tasting menu with wines £60 Drinks The wines have been selected by our very own Bath Life columnist Angela Mount, who has carefully chosen the drinks to complement the differing styles of the tasting menu Service/atmosphere Super-friendly, with a special-occasion feel
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D I N I N G A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E
DINING in BATH Bath Life’s selection of the best places to eat out in Bath and the surrounding area BRITISH THE BATH PRIORY Weston Rd, Bath; 01225 331922; www.thebathpriory.co.uk Michelin-starred fine dining overlooking hotels award-winning gardens THE BEAUFORT 1 Beaufort, London Road, Bath; 01225 422033; www.thebeaufortbath.com Family-run restaurant in the heart of Larkhall cooking creative, seasonal food CIRCUS RESTAURANT 34 Brock Street, Bath; 01225 466020; www.thecircusrestaurant.co.uk Voted number four in the UK in The Times “20 secret restaurants that foodies love” CLIFTON SAUSAGE 5 Bladud Buildings, Bath; 01225 433633; www.cliftonsausage.co.uk Upmarket sausage and mash restaurant and bar newly opened in Bath THE DOWER HOUSE, ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL 16 Royal Crescent, Bath; 01225 823333; www.royalcrescent.co.uk/dining AA 3 rosette fine dining at one of Bath’s most iconic locations HENRY'S 4 Saville Row, Bath; 01225 780055; www.henrysrestaurantbath.com Imaginative modern dining offering a classic menu and also full vegetarian and vegan menus DAN MOON AT THE GAINSBOROUGH RESTAURANT Beau St, Bath; 01225 358888; www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk Creativity meets delicious food with this talented chef MENU GORDON JONES 2 Wellsway, Bath; 01225 480871; www.menugordonjones.co.uk Multi award-winning fine dining with constantly changing surprise tasting menu THE OLIVE TREE RESTAURANT, THE QUEENSBERRY HOTEL Russell St, Bath; 01225 447928; www.thequeensberry.co.uk One of Bath’s longest established restaurants, overseen by Chris Cleghorn with 3 AA rosettes 98 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
WOODS 9-13 Alfred St, Bath; 01225 314812 www.woodsrestaurant.com legendary Bath dining institution serving French influenced British cuisine
THE GARRICKS HEAD 7-8 St John's Rd, Bath; 01225 318368; www.garricksheadpub.com City centre pub and dining room next to Theatre Royal
CAFÉS & COFFEE SHOPS
THE HARE AND HOUNDS Lansdown Road, Avon, Bath; 01225 482682; www.hareandhoundsbath.com Airy, relaxed spot with modern British gastropub menu, extensive wine list and scenic outdoor area
CAFÉ LUCCA 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; 01225 335394; www.cafelucca.co.uk Stylish contemporary café situated at The Loft on Bartlett Street offering a Mediterranean inspired menu with barista coffee and sumptuous homemade cakes GREEN BIRD CAFÉ 11 Margaret's Buildings, Bath; 01225 487846; www.greenbirdcafe.co.uk Independently run cafe located between the Circus & Royal Crescent THE KINGSMEAD KITCHEN 1 Kingsmead St, Kingsmead Square, Bath; 01225 329002; www.fieldfireandfeast.co.uk Laid-back, modern cafe-bar open daily from 8am until 6pm for breakfast, brunch, lunch and tea using own farm produce
CALIFORNIAN
THE LOCKSBROOK INN 103 Locksbrook Rd, Bath; 01225 427119; www.thelocksbrookinn.com Recently opened canal side gastropub in Bath, open every day for drinks, brunch, coffee, lunch, evening meals and grazing in between THE MARLBOROUGH TAVERN 35 Marlborough Buildings; 01225 423731; www.marlborough-tavern.com Award winning gastropub using seasonal local produce THE NEW INN 24 Monmouth Place, Bath; 01225 442944; www.newinnbath.co.uk Burgers and bar snacks with cask and craft ale and beers
THE FIREHOUSE ROTISSERIE 2 John St, Bath; 01225 482070; www.firehouserotisserie.co.uk Californian and Tex-Mex dishes, prepared over a wood-fired grill in a rustic setting
THE RICHMOND ARMS 7 Richmond Place, Bath; 01225 316725; www.therichmondarmsbath.com Hearty dishes with menu changing on a daily basis
GASTROPUBS
INDIAN
GPT SMOKEHOUSE 44-45 Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 429509; www.gptbath.com 'Dude Food' menu cooked with an authentic handmade American hot smoker
THE EASTERN EYE 8a Quiet St, Bath; 01225 422323; www.easterneye.com Classic traditional Bengali cuisine in grand Georgian interior space
KING WILLIAM 36 Thomas St, Bath; 01225 428096; www.kingwilliampub.com Pub with an upstairs dining room serving a modern British menu based on west country produce
THE MINT ROOM Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 446656; www.themintroom.co.uk Award winning contemporary Indian fine dining
THE CHEQUERS 50 Rivers St, Bath; 01225 360017; www.thechequersbath.com Inventive British food served in a welcoming pub atmosphere close to the Royal Crescent
MARTINI RESTAURANT 8-9 George St, Bath; 01225 460818; www.martinirestaurant.co.uk Traditional Italian food served in a cosy atmosphere
ITALIAN
A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E D I N I N G
SOTTO SOTTO 10 North Parade, Bath 01225 330236; www.sottosotto.co.uk Classic Italian menu with a contemporary twist in candlelit vaulted cellars
STEAKHOUSES
OLÉ TAPAS 1 John Street, Bath 01225 466440; www.oletapas.co.uk Charming, authentic Spanish tapas – one of Bath’s best kept secrets
PIZZA
THE HERD 12a Argyle St, Bath; 01225 316583; www.theherdrestaurant.co.uk Locally sourced meat of the finest provenance alongside a simple, seasonal menu
THE OVEN 21 Westgate St, Bath 01225 311181; www.theovenpizzeria.co.uk Neapolitan artisan pizza using local and Italian imported produce
HUDSON STEAKHOUSE 14 London St, Bath; 01225 332323; www.hudsonsteakhouse.co.uk Award-winning steakhouse in listed building specialising in prime aged steaks and delicious starters with a fusion twist
KOH THAI TAPAS 36 Broad St, Bath 01225 311232; www.koh-thai.co.uk Award winning small Thai tapas plates and cocktails
REAL ITALIAN PIZZA CO 16 York St, Bath 01225 330121; www.realitalianpizza.co.uk Family owned pizzeria. Wood fired pizza with fresh authentic ingredients
TAPAS
THAI BY THE WEIR 16 Argyle St, Bath 01225 444834; www.thaibytheweir.co.uk Restaurant overlooking the weir, serving a classic Thai menu
TAPAS REVOLUTION 20A St Lawrence St, Bath; 01225 312917 www.tapasrevolution.com/bath Newly opened authentic Spanish Tapas
THAI
OUTSIDE of BATH BRITISH THE GREENHOUSE RESTAURANT The Pavilion, Wadswick Green, Corsham SN13 9RD; 01225 585880; www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk Smart, stylish and relaxed new dining destination THE GARDEN 15-17 The Bridge, Chippenham, SN15 1HA 01249 465672; www.thegardenuk.co.uk Relaxed dining using British produce
COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS LUCKNAM PARK Colerne, Wilts, SN14 8AZ 01225 742777; www.lucknampark.co.uk Michelin Star fine dining at the renowned Park restaurant and more informal dining at the stylish contemporary brasserie at 5 star country house hotel WIDBROOK GRANGE HOTEL Trowbridge Rd, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1UH; 01225 864750; www.widbrookgrange.co.uk
Modern farmhouse cuisine, locally sourced and freshly prepared
Award winning modern British food and cask ales in country inn
GASTROPUBS
THE PEAR TREE INN Top Lane, Whitely, Wilts, SN12 8QX; 01225 704966; www.peartreewhitley.co.uk An elegant revamped country inn with an acclaimed restaurant and contemporary rustic-chic bedrooms
BUNCH OF GRAPES 14 Silver St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1JY; 01225 938088; www.thebunchofgrapes.com Bar and restaurant inspired by the village bistros of South West France THE GEORGE AT WOOLLEY 67 Woolley St, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1AQ; 01225 865650; www.thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk Recently refurbished gastropub from award winning team HOMEWOOD PARK Abbey Lane, Freshford, Bath BA2 7TB 01225 723731; www.homewoodpark.co.uk Luxury hotel with two rosette restaurant and spa THE LONGS ARMS Upper South Wraxall, Wilts, BA15 2SB; 01225 864450; www.thelongsarms.com
THE WHEELWRIGHTS ARMS Church Lane, Monkton Combe, BA2 7HB 01225 722287; www.wheelwrightsarms.co.uk Pub featuring modern takes on British classics, plus understated, individually decorated guestrooms
FARM SHOPS ALLINGTON FARM SHOP Allington Bar Farm, Allington, Chippenham SN14 6LJ; 01249 658112; www.allingtonfarmshop.co.uk Shop and Café selling local produce
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CHARLOTTE HURD BEAUTY BEAUTY • DERMAPLANIST • LASER TECHNICIAN • HOLISTIC THERAPIST
Before
After 2nd Dermaplane
Christmas isn’t Christmas until you’ve tried our fabulous Christmas menu! Bookings open for our New Year’s party! Dermaplaning is an exfoliating facial treatment using a 10 gauge scalpel swiping the blade in gentle upward motions. It removes dead dulling skin cells, peach fuzzy vellus hair, improves fine lines, pigmentation and wrinkles. The procedure improves skin rejuvenation leaving the skin brighter with a healthy glow! The skin is left smooth, being a perfect canvas for flawless make up. The treatment is painless and actually quite relaxing ! Charlotte Hurd Beauty at Oldfield Surgery, 45 Upper Oldfield Park, Bath BA2 3HT Tel: 07725 369965 | Email: charbeauty1@gmail.com www.charlottehurdbeauty.com Bath Laser Clinic Tel: 01225 800428 | www.bathlaserclinic.com
Happy 2018 to you all! See you soon… 12-16 Clifton Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1AF Tel: 01173 291300 Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EB Tel: 01225 446656 Email: info@themintroom.co.uk www.themintroom.co.uk
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01225 425308 | 34 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2NT | f darcysbath
FOOD & DRINK W H AT ’ S M A K I N G T H E G O U R M E T N E W S I N B AT H
FIVE STAR Top ratings were served up to 12 food stalls at the annual Bath Christmas Market. Environmental health officers from B&NES Council carried out inspections on all the food outlets at the market, with a dozen awarded the top grade of five stars. They included the Green Park Brasserie, The Angelfish Restaurant
and The Courtyard. Councillor Bob Goodman (Conservative, Combe Down), cabinet member for development and neighbourhoods, says, “We wanted everyone to enjoy the Christmas Market. Making sure stalls were inspected for the highest standards of food hygiene was part of that.”
Now here’s a showstopper
For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk
LET THEM EAT CAKERY
Lionel and Victoria Meaden from the Angelfish Restaurant get full marks from Imogen Coles
A passion for baking has led to the opening of the Cakery in Bath. The Widcombe Parade shop sells a mouth-watering array of cakes, pastries and bread – all freshly baked on the premises. Delicious treats include Baileys and chocolate, and rum and raisin cakes, melt-in-the-middle muffins, sugar-free coconut energy balls and peanut butter and banana gluten-free cake. Founder and baker Ella Cooper says, “I have always loved to bake. Since leaving school I have worked the local markets with my cakes and bakes and supplied Bath restaurants. The Cakery is my first shop and is an artisan bakery where I am simply committed to producing home-baked goods and lunches using fresh ethical ingredients, and adding nothing that’s not absolutely necessary.” The Cakery uses quality produce and, as well as full-fat versions, offers gluten-free, reduced sugar and vegan versions of its bakes. It also sells soups, sandwiches, coffee and leaf teas. For more: www.thecakerybath.co.uk
SOURCED WITH LOVE
A taste of Italy in the heart of Bath
An indie Italian deli and shop has opened in Bath, and it is packed full of goodies sourced from artisan producers. The Italian Food Hall at 8 Edgar Buildings, George Street, is owned by Italian-born Laura Doria and her friends and business partners Luca De Gregorio and Luca Galleti. It sells food from both North and South Italy, and Laura says the produce has been chosen for its authentic taste. “The response has been incredible,” she
says. “Someone said it was like being in Italy and people have been coming in and taking pictures. “Before now, people couldn’t get most of this food outside of Italy. Some things like Parma ham you can get here, but it doesn’t taste the same because it’s not fresh.” The delights include fresh cheeses, salamis and brutti e buoni, and tiny nutty meringues translated as ugly and good. It also sells takeaway paninis and coffee. For more: www.theitalianfoodhall.com
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L A N S D OW N G O L F C LU B Membership and green fee deals available now! Wanting to hold your special event or wedding in Bath? Look no further than Lansdown Golf Club. We have the experience and versatility to ensure your day is a perfect one. 01225 425 007
info@lansdowngolfclub.co.uk
Lansdown, Bath, BA1 9BT
www . lansdowngolfclub . co . u k
Fashion/gifts/stores/more
ON THE CLOCK After almost four years of effort, local company de Fossard, run by husband and wife duo George and Cornelia de Fossard, has launched a modern work of art that is the one-off Solar Time Clock. Bath-born George’s first workshop, which he set up in 2005, was on Walcot Street, Bath. He built all his clocks there – except for this latest one, which he built at workshops in Frome. The clockmaker – whose background is in the conservation and restoration of antique clocks – and carpenter Cornelia, have been toiling hard, and the result is a technological feat. It’s a clock so unusual that it is the first of its kind, George tells us, and it can be set for longitude and latitude, allowing it to tell the time virtually anywhere in the world. To complement this rarity, the phase of the moon indication is driven by an exceptionally accurate, complex and unusual compound worm mechanism – designed by the 18th-century English clockmaker Thomas Mudge – combined with de Fossard’s own mechanical invention, creating a thoroughly modern piece of horology. “The clock, which has 750 handmade parts, took over 5,000 hours to complete,” says Cornelia. “We never stopped to think about what we would do once it was finished.” The couple are now taking a rest before thinking of their next joint project. After being showcased at The Clockmakers’ Museum, London, the clock will be offered for public sale. The Solar Time Clock’s estimated price is £175,000; www.defossard.co.uk
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all Photos on this page by soul media
108 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
W H AT ’ S NEW?
NEW and IMPROVED Take a look at the myriad new clubs, boutiques, restaurants and spas that emerged in 2017, and also see which ones will launch in the new year, and which ones have transformed, expanded, rebranded and relocated. Here’s what’s going on right on your doorstep with 28 of Bath’s big and little businesses By L I SA E VA NS NEWBIES
THE COLOMBIAN COMPANY
BUSINESSES NEW TO BATH IN 2017
WALCOT HOUSE
When did it open? December 2017. What is it? “It’s an independent destination bar, restaurant, event space and club in an industrial, luxe space,” says co-owner Martin Still. The building: It’s the former Red House Bakery, which was established in 1739 and used to be the space in which Club XL nightclub was housed. “Bath is an interesting and quirky city with people to match; Walcot House is for them. We noticed a desperate need for a late-night entertainment space for the discerning.” The owners: “It’s owned by the Still family. We’re currently owners of Mother & Wild in Corsham, and were previously owners of The Methuen Arms and The Pear Tree. We’ve been planning this for 12 months. What makes it stand out is the quality and difference we offer.” In the pipeline? “We’ll establish Walcot House as a leading destination cocktail bar and restaurant, being renowned for live entertainment and club nights. In the new year, we’ll use the dancefloor as a studio space for fitness; we’ll convert the upstairs space into an all-day café and restaurant; and we’ll set up events and a membership scheme.” 90.b Walcot Street, Bath; www.walcothousebath.com
NÃM STORE
Opposite page: a sneak peek inside Walcot House, Bath’s new bar, restaurant, event space gym and club
6 Abbey Gate Street, Bath; www.thecolombiancompany.com
BEFORE OPENING THE BUSINESS, I WAS A PRIVATE DETECTIVE
When did it open? September 2017. What is it? A homeware and accessories store specialising in French ceramics. Its inspiration? “I believe in surrounding ourselves daily with things that bring us pleasure as well as purpose; beautiful handmade objects that nurture your soul,” says owner Sharan Oberai. “We want our customers to feel the spirit of the artisan that has made the pieces to adorn their homes.” 22c New Bond Street, Bath; www.namstore.co.uk
When did it open? November 2017. What is it? “It’s an independent venture; our first little shop,” says director Jhampoll Gutierrez Gomez. “About a year ago, we started sourcing and importing speciality green coffee beans from Colombia that we sell online, to coffee shops, restaurants, delis and pubs as well as in independent markets. Due to the success of this, we started sourcing single-origin chocolate and Colombian panela (unrefined cane sugar). Because of our customers’ requests, we decided to have a go at a shop, and found the perfect premises for our cool and welcoming coffee house.” Why Bath? “My wife, Veronica Ganan, and I have lived here for 18 years. Before this, I was a manager for Chandos Deli, and my wife, as well as helping in the shop, is still nursing in the local hospital.”
BEERCRAFT OF BATH
When did it open? August 2017. What is it? An independent craft beer and homebrew shop with over 500 beers from all over the world, as well as ingredients and equipment to brew your own. What’s the story? “The business was originally set up by myself and James Oliver in 2004,” says Davin Kenwood. “It was a Bristol-based mailorder business selling guitars; then we expanded into homebrew and chocolate. In 2017, we split the business up. An employee took on the guitar side and moved it to a new shop in Bath – Guitarbitz – and James and I, who both love beer, opened Beercraft. We now have Bath’s biggest range of beer.” What’s in the pipeline? We have a huge downstairs area we would like to develop in the New Year for ‘meet the brewer’ nights, tastings and other events.
3 Argyle Street, Pulteney Bridge, Bath; www.beercraftbath.com
THE ITALIAN FOOD HALL
When did it open? November 2017. In a nutshell: “It’s an independent Italian food shop that aims to offer a real Italian shopping experience,” says co-owner Laura Doria. What to try: “Ubriaco cheese – known in Italy as ‘drunken cheese’ – and marsala cake sacripante. What’s the story? “We couldn’t find a proper Italian grocery selling affordable, genuine products from Italy. We wanted to give locals a chance to taste and buy them. Before doing this, I was teaching, and, before that, I was a private detective!” 8 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath; www.theitalianfoodhall.com w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 109
W H AT ’ S NEW? What makes it stand out? “The sheer scale. It has the city’s only purpose-built conference facilities and there are no other hotels in the city that have the same capacity in terms of bedrooms or delegate space.” James Street West, Bath; www.apexhotels.co.uk
FRAMPTONS
All is bright at eyewear shop Ollie Quinn
PORTMAN
When did it open? November 2017. What is it? A fashion boutique specialising in women’s fashion items, including Italian leather jackets, faux fur coats, accessories, and jewellery which is designed by the owner, Nickie Portman. “My vision for the shop was that it would be a luxurious, welcoming environment with a relaxed feeling, full of luxury goods at competitive prices,” says Nickie. “There are also fast-moving, ever-changing stock lines.” The owner: Nickie has always been involved in retail through the family business, which includes fashion, suede and leather. She designs new collections and is the buyer for the various outlets. 28 Milsom Street, Bath; www.nickieportman.co.uk
OLLIE QUINN
When did it open? June 2017. What is it? An independent café, bar and restaurant. Who owns it? Tom Walker (former world pea-shooting champion), Sam Westlake (a bird of prey enthusiast) and Ed McAdam (a castles and churches obsessive) who all served together in The Parachute Regiment in Afghanistan. “The three of us all first decided to go into the hospitality business in 2016,” says Ed. “Six months later, we were in business.” The setting? It’s in The Empire, one of Bath’s landmark buildings, with its collection of wonderful old features and unique character, and there’s a spectacular view of Pulteney Bridge and the weir. What else? “We are building the Framptons Foundation that already helps people from challenging backgrounds to gain work experience and employment, and get the support they need to realise their potential.” The Empire, Grand Parade, Bath; www.framptonsbar.co.uk
PHAT YAKS
When did it open? March 2017. What is it? A Nepalese street-food café, owned by the same family that runs Yak Yeti Yak restaurant on Pierrepont Street, Bath. What’s the story? “We used to spend our years working in Nepal during the winter,” says co-owner Sarah Gurung. “Once our son, Arun, started school, we chose to settle in the UK. When Arun left school, he joined the family business. He’s been instrumental in the running of Phat Yaks ever since.” What makes it stand out? “There aren’t many pure Nepalese eateries outside Nepal; we’re the only one in Bath. Every year, we return to Nepal to buy the new-season spices. While we’re there, we check on our charity – YYY Foundation – that we set up in the aftermath of the 2015 earthquakes.”
THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE ATTENDED OUR SHOP LOOKING FOR RIBBON FOR HER BOUQUET
When did it open? March 2017. What is it? An independently owned eyewear company which uses high-quality materials, designs all frames in-house, and sells only in its own boutiques. What’s the story? OQ started as a group of friends from around the world who shared a mutual fascination with eyewear. The core collection has been created with the OQ team, friends, and customers in mind, with each of the frames named after one of the people who has been vital to realising the vision of the brand.
3 New Street, Kingsmead Square, Bath; www.phatyaks.com w
14 New Bond Street, Bath; www.olliequinn.co.uk
APEX CITY OF BATH HOTEL
When did it open? August 2017. In a nutshell: It’s a four-star hotel – the largest purpose-built one in Bath, in terms of bedrooms and conference facilities. It has 177 rooms, and the facilities have capacity for up to 400 guests. There’s also a bar, restaurant, a gym, pool and sauna. It’s Apex Hotels’ 10th hotel, and it’s the first in England outside of London. Why Bath? “Apex Hotels made the investment due to Bath’s popularity in terms of leisure and business travel – it’s a wonderful city,” says Tim O’Sullivan, general manager. “We went to great pains to ensure that it fitted in with the other buildings in Bath – so the façade is covered in Bath stone.
At The Colombian Company, you’ll find speciality coffees and a beautifully modern space in which to enjoy them
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W H AT ’ S NEW? THE DRESS AGENCY
When did it open? May 2017. What is it? A boutique offering an eclectic selection of high-end, high-street, pre-loved women’s fashion. Why was it started? “It was a spontaneous project,” says proprietor Natalie Young. “It was born from a love of fashion and sourcing amazing pieces at affordable prices. I had my children at a relatively young age; I absolutely loved being a full-time mum, and now I’m ready and able to invest time in my new venture.” What to expect: “The unexpected! An old black bin liner could be brought in, filled with Chanel dresses; it really is that unpredictable. You can sell your unwanted items here on a 50/50 sale or return basis.” 6 Widcombe Parade, Bath; find The Dress Agency on Facebook
SWOON
When did it open? May 2017. What is it? An independent business run by the Forte family – including Bruno, his wife Ana-Maria, his sister Pat, and his mother Louise. “We’re the fourth generation of the Forte family – who brought traditional Italian gelato to the UK over a century ago – and we craft multi award-winning gelato and sorbetto within our flavours lab in Bath,” says Bruno. Interesting fact: “We knew we needed to be equipped with fantastic recipes, so we studied at Gelato University in Bologna.” What makes it special? “It’s among a handful of traditional gelateries in the UK, and it’s our dedication to heritage, and a desire to sustain tradition and a commitment to using the freshest and finest ingredients that makes us stand out.” 15 Kingsmead Square, Bath; www.swoononaspoon.co.uk
THE IVY BATH BRASSERIE
Opening date? October 2017. In a nutshell: “We wanted to create a neighbourhood brasserie here in Bath for local residents and visitors to enjoy,” says Yishay Malkov, The Ivy Collection’s executive operations director. “A restaurant that is accessible for everyone, at any time of day.” Interesting fact: It’s housed in a former bank building on Milsom Street. The kitchen in the basement is full of old safes, some dating back over 100 years, which were just too heavy to remove without damaging the building. Future plans? A first-floor dining area and al fresco terrace will open in the spring. 39 Milsom Street, Bath; www.theivybathbrasserie.com
DIDICAKES
When did it open? January 2017. In a nutshell: “We are an independent family business (myself, my husband John, and my daughter Alex) baking fresh cupcakes, special-occasion cakes, and tarts using only local ingredients,” says Daniella Murray. “We sell them at our shop and wholesale to many cafés in and around Bath.” What’s the background? John has been cooking and baking for over 30 years, gaining experience in Michelin-star restaurants in London and France. John is also a Roux scholar, having won the competition in its second year. He and Daniella also owned businesses in Australia and America before coming back to the UK. Personal motto in business? “No matter what, stay positive, grateful and happy.” Future plans? “We want to expand to other cities. Bristol will be next.”
AN OLD BLACK BIN LINER COULD BE
BROUGHT IN, FILLED WITH CHANEL DRESSES
V V ROULEAUX
When did it open? July 2017. What is it? A specialist trimmings supplier. “We supply over 5,000 luxury ribbons, tassels, braids, faux flowers, feathers, cords, and decorations,” says Annabel Lewis, founder. “We also make and sell bespoke hats, and host fun craft workshops.” What’s the story? “I opened the first shop in 1990 in London. I founded it with the belief that there should be no barriers between wedding, fashion, and interior design. It’s still very much an independent business.” Memorable moment? “When the Duchess of Cambridge personally attended our London shop looking for ribbon for her bouquet and bridesmaids’ waists. Pure silk was her ribbon of choice.” 9 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath; www.vvrouleaux.com 112 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Spa 15 is as far removed from a ‘typical’ spa experience as you can get
132 Walcot Street, Bath; www.didicakesbath.com
PINTXO
When did it open? May 2017. What is it? A tapas bar, with inspiration taken from around Spain – particularly San Sebastian. Who runs it? Husband and wife Mark and Teresa Mentzel. They have run restaurants in Bath for years, but they’ve also owned a bar in
Sanlúcar, Spain. Best dishes? Meatballs, garlic prawns, calamari with squid ink alioli, lamb skewers marinated in Basque spices, Spanish lentil stew, and rich rice pudding. Specialties? As Teresa is from the town where Manzanilla is produced, there’s an emphasis on sherry at the bar. “We are very keen to prove that sherry is not just for Grandma,” says Mark. Atmosphere: Warm, with a mix of Latin and Spanish music and a friendly, informal service. 31 Barton Street, Bath; www.pintxobath.co.uk
THE BIGGER THE BETTER
BUSINESS EXPANSIONS AND ADDITIONS
THE BATH FRAMER
What’s new? The independent framing shop expanded into
W H AT ’ S NEW? a second space next door in October 2017. “My best moment has been realising my vision of a beautiful new shop space and being in a position to do this so soon after first establishing the business in Bath in 2015,” says Kelly Ann Perry, founder. What to expect: A creative approach to all aspects of framing, plus an array of stationary, artworks and frame-related goods. Is it family-run? “I am currently training my son, Jo, as an apprentice framer. And, last year, my life-long friend, Lizzy, came on board as a framing assistant.”
the city. “We feel that, with the community owning the venue, we could offer a permanence to the creative offer in Bath,” says Eleanor Household, head of development and marketing. Future plans: “We are feeling positive. We are encouraged by the number of people who have offered their support, including high-profile musicians and comedians. We are overwhelmed by the enthusiasm for what we’re doing by our local community, which feels that our wonderful venue must be given the opportunity to continue doing what it does for many generations to come.”
6 & 7 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; www.thebathpictureframer.co.uk
22 – 23 Westgate Street, Bath; www.komedia.co.uk
SPA 15
When was it taken over? November 2017. What’s the story? Previous owners John-Paul and Silvana de Soissons decided to sell to pursue other opportunities in food marketing. New owners Anthony Bado and his mother Lesley Whitaker have taken over and plan to continue trading as The Foodie Bugle, offering coffee, cakes, sandwiches, charcuterie and natural wines.
When did it open? November 2017 (as an expansion of No.15 Great Pulteney hotel, which opened in 2016). In a nutshell: It’s a spa which features four treatment rooms, a large hot tub, a sauna, and a colourful steam pod and relaxation area, all within historic exposed-stone vaults beneath the pavements of Great Pulteney Street. “It was created with a one-of-a-kind personality in mind,” says Jonathan Walker, managing director of No.15. “It’s just about as far removed from a ‘typical’ spa experience as you can get.” Surprising facts: Art is at the heart of the spa; each of the treatment rooms are designed around, and named after, statement pieces of art. The Sock Room, for example, features 80 handknitted socks; there’s also a Pottery Room, a Tapestry Room and a Coral Room. 15 Great Pulteney Street, Bath; www.no15greatpulteney.co.uk
CH-CH-CH CHANGES
THE BUSINESSES THAT HAVE CHANGED HANDS OR PLANS
KOMEDIA
What’s new? By the time this issue of Bath Life comes out, Komedia’s community ownership campaign will have hit its deadline (in mid December) and we will finally know the fate of the independent entertainment venue which brings a diverse programme of comedy, music, film, cabaret and more to
THE FOODIE BUGLE
2 Abbey Street, Bath; www.thefoodiebugleshop.com
RING O BELLS
When was it taken over? June 2017. By whom? David Giddings – chef patron. He used to work on a large country estate, which he says has given him an appreciation for the quality of the food we eat, and how it is raised and grown. “A habit I’ve picked up is foraging around Bath to ensure seasonal food is always on offer at the Ring O Bells,” he says. What’s new? A small-plates and steaks concept, a refurbishment, and a new wine list. The location: “In Widcombe, we have a really good local scene with new shops, cafés and restaurants creating a buzz around the area – all within a five-minute walk from the train station.” 10 Widcombe Parade, Bath; www.ringobellswidcombe.co.uk
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
THE BUSINESSES THAT HAVE REBRANDED AND HAVE BEEN REDESIGNED
WELLNESS SUITE AT THE THERMAE BATH SPA
When did it open? March 2017. What is it? An area inside the Thermae Bath Spa was transformed into a state-of-the-art, custom-designed Wellness Suite. “We decided to have a complete revamp, and offer something new that gives our guests more variety,” says Peter Rollins, marketing and communications director. “The result was: aromatic Georgian and Roman steam rooms, an infrared room, fragrant experience showers, an ice chamber, and a celestial relaxation suite, all on one floor.” Future plans? “In December, we’re launching the ‘Thermae Ten’ – a special card that grants the user ten sessions for £250 – a discount of approximately a third. We want to reward our guests who return time and time again to take the waters.” The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath Street, Bath; www.thermaebathspa.com
ETONS OF BATH
Modern haberdashery V V Rouleaux is a leading luxury ribbons and trimmings brand
When did it open? September 2017. What’s the story? “We combined the skills and services of Eton Design (which had been on Walcot Street for seven years) with Latham Interiors (who were specialists in Georgian and Regency design),” says Sarah Latham, founder and creative director. “The outcome of the merging of these two companies is ‘Etons of Bath’.” What makes it stand out? “We are the UK’s only specialist Georgian/Regency interior design practice. We help owners of w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 113
W H AT ’ S NEW? period properties create classically inspired interiors to add value.” Did you know: “We have Bath’s largest handmade-curtain workshop hidden right under our showroom on Walcot Street, with four curtain-makers and the largest range of fabric books west of Chelsea. We have de Gournay wallpaper on the showroom wall that’s hand-painted in 22ct gold.” 108 Walcot Street Bath; www.etonsofbath.com
DARCY’S NEWS CAFÉ
When did it change? November 2017. What’s new? Darcy’s Newsagent (which opened in 2016) rebranded to Darcy’s News Café. As well as delivering newspapers and magazines to over 600 customers across Bath daily, coffee and food have now been added to the offering. About the owners: Husband and wife Rachel and Matthew Twomey moved to Bath from Cape Town where they lived for over seven years. What makes it unique? “We have combined a traditional newsagents with a café. We also specialise in sourcing foreign newspapers and magazines.” Did you know: “We are also a Parcel drop-off/collection point for Pass My Parcel (Amazon) and UPS. If you’re not going to be home to receive your parcel, you can opt to have it delivered to us where we can hold it for up to 10 days.”
The Wellness Suite is complete with an infrared room, experience showers, an ice chamber, and a celestial relaxation suite
and we try to be the exact opposite of that.” 17 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.rostragallery.co.uk
34 Gay Street, Bath; find them on Facebook
WALLER & WOOD
When did the name change? “We renamed our business from One Two Five Gallery to Waller & Wood in November 2017,” says Carole Waller, who co-owns the business with Gary Wood. “We felt that using our names would make it easier for our customers to locate the gallery.” In a nutshell: It’s a gallery that showcases art made in, and inspired by, Bath. “Our work reflects the textures and history of this remarkable city. I create original wearable art – one-of-a-kind, hand-painted and printed clothing, scarves and glass works. And Gary’s expertise is painted stoneware and porcelain ceramics.” Interesting fact: Carole’s painted clothes have previously been sold in Liberty, Harvey Nichols and Bergdorf Goodman. What makes it stand out? “We make everything ourselves in our studio in Bath, and no two items are the same.”
THE
COMING SOON
KEEP YOUR EYES PEELED FOR THESE
LE VIGNOBLE
When will it open? Spring 2018. Is it an independent venture? Yes, there’s one other in Plymouth. In a nutshell: It’s a hybrid wine business offering elements of lounge, retail and education. What’s the story? Owner Yannick Loué worked in catering all his life and it was always his ambition to have his own wine business which showcased new and unusual wines. What to expect: “We will offer 32 different wines to try by the taster and glass,” says Yannick. “We’ll also be serving tapas, with a selection of recipes coming from my father – a chef in Paris.” Why Bath? “It’s a professional city, and the majority of our customers are professionals. The history of the city also fits into our ethos and shares our passion for independent businesses.”
OWNERS SERVED TOGETHER IN THE PARACHUTE
4 Abbey Green, Bath; www.wallerandwood.co.uk
BUST A MOVE
REGIMENT
IN AFGHANISTAN
THE BUSINESSES THAT HAVE FOUND A NEW HOME
ROSTRA GALLERY
What is it? An independent gallery, which was founded in 1997, selling affordable art, limitededition prints, crafts and jewellery created by local artists. Why did it move? After 20 years on George Street, it relocated in September 2017. “We wanted to move to reinvigorate the gallery,” says owner Emma Birts, who’s also a ceramics artist and the chief framer for the gallery. “We absolutely love our new home. Margaret’s Buildings is a lively, beautiful street with a fantastic community spirit and we have been warmly welcomed.” What makes it different? “We have an open-door policy and are approachable – galleries can be known for being intimidating spaces 114 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
12/13 Milsom Place, Milsom Street, Bath; www.levignoble.co.uk
HOTEL INDIGO BATH
When will it open? Summer 2018. What is it? A 166-bedroom boutique hotel located in the centre of Bath. “We’ve been inspired by the area’s rich architectural beauty which is echoed through our design,” says Simon Hall, general manager. “It’s more than just a hotel; it’s a gymnasium, private members club and private house with a meeting room and a dining suite, and eight adjoining guest-rooms also feature to create the perfect stay for anyone visiting Bath.” Don’t miss: “The Vault Rooms. Located underneath the hotel, they are an amazing example of historical architecture. Vaults were a common feature of 18th-century buildings in Bath, and the hotel has utilised these as bedrooms.” What else? “The Elder Restaurant, a concept from executive chef Mike Robinson, will also be opening in 2018 and will showcase contemporary British cooking.” South Parade, Bath; www.bath.hotelindigo.com
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TESTING, TESTING
Main image: the barre is open for business at The Edge; right, top: try a fermentation class at Demuths; right, bottom: free sessions at Bath Iyengar Yoga Centre are coming up
STRETCH YOURSELF The New Year can be just the impetus we need for hauling ourselves off the sofa and expanding not only our minds, but our bodies as well THE ‘THIS IS GOOD FOR YOUR GUT’ ONE We all have to eat, but cooking is a great way to unwind and an outlet for creativity and passion – even if TV chefs can make it look a bit stressful and, well, sweary. There’ll be no stress at Demuths Cookery School which offers day and evening classes, diplomas and vegan cookery courses, though. “We run a number of classes with guest chefs – one of which is with Lucie Cousins, from Bath Culture House, who runs her fantastic Fermentation Workshop,” says owner Rachel Demuth. “In her class, Lucie covers everything from sauerkrauts, kimchi and tempeh to kombucha and kefir and gives practical advice to allow you to start fermenting at home.” Course prices range from £75 – £1,975
THE ‘GOOD FOR YOUR GREY MATTER’ ONE “Learning a language is good for your brain, it helps to keep you mentally active and used to picking up new information,” says Bath College’s Love2learn Japanese tutor Lynne Strugnell. Spanish and Italian are the college’s most popular courses, but other linguists are keen to learn Arabic, Mandarin Chinese and Japanese. “Our Japanese courses offer people something different,” adds Lynne. “Often they become interested in learning Japanese after watching Japanese animations and films, or reading manga comic books. “The class is always full and is attended by a wide age range, the youngest person I’ve had was 15-years-old, and the oldest 75.” Various prices under £150
www.demuths.co.uk
www.bathcollege.ac.uk
WE LIKE TO SPEND AN EVENING DANCING WITH SWORDS
THE ‘THIS WILL MAKE YOU FLEXIBLE ONE’ Not only do yoga enthusiasts look lithe and supple, they often feel so much better in themselves too. Kirsten and Richard Agar Ward run Bath Iyengar Yoga Centre and offer a range of classes. And, as part of National Iyengar Yoga Day on 13 January, they will be offering free sessions. “Our students range from teenagers, to people in their 80s,” says Kirsten. “Our method is inclusive and offers something for all. We travel a lot to teach around the world in places such as China, Bermuda, Sweden and Italy. “We find it very helpful to practise on the aeroplane on long journeys, so we arrive more refreshed. Some creativity is needed to practise in such tight spaces.” Classes from £9.50
THE ‘THIS WILL KEEP YOU ON YOUR TOES’ ONE “Ballet remains very popular and is such an elegant and physically rewarding form of dance, with our courses covering different abilities from complete beginners to more advanced,” says Fleur Hoefkens-Lee, Bath Dance Arts producer who works with the Edge. “Our Contemporary Dance fuses release-based practice with lyrical jazz influences; Movement Class merges disciplines working on coordination and flexibility; while Street Dance introduces Breakdance, Poppin’ and Lockin’. “There really is something for everyone.” The Edge, at the University of Bath, has a Movement Class incorporating a wide range of disciplines including ballet, contemporary, street dance and yoga. And, as a bonus, it improves coordination, flexibility and strength. Courses range from £50 – £63 for seven weeks
THE ‘WATCH WHERE YOU PUT IT’ ONE Determined to show that men can do more than just dad dance is the Northgate Rapper – Bath’s finest (and, it has to be said, only) traditional sword-dancers. “We’re an able bunch of chaps aged from 18 to 50 who like nothing better than spending an evening dancing with swords in pubs,” says Jack Savage, the rapper’s bagman. “Not your standard Saturday night activity, it’s true, but we enjoy our mild peril washed down by a beer or two. Our dances are accompanied by an awesome woman on the violin and a superb man playing the concertina.” And if you fancy weilding a sword, the rappers say they are looking for new blood… They meet on Tuesday evenings at the Curfew, 11 Cleveland Place, Bath from 7.30pm.
www.bath-iyengar-yoga.com
www.edgearts.org
www.northgaterapper.co.uk
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 117
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Essential Well-Being for you at Bath Iyengar Yoga Centre A holistic approach is the philosophy of the bath iyengar yoga centre
B
ath Iyengar Yoga Centre has been teaching yoga for essential well-being since 2000. The centre offers yoga asana (posture) and pranayama (yogic breathing) classes, yoga therapy, workshops and retreats. They also offer free philosophy and chanting sessions. It’s a friendly and diverse community of people who love yoga.
Balance mind, body & emotions
As Richard, one of the directors, says: “Iyengar Yoga is about being fine not just feeling fine. People often misunderstand and think yoga is merely physical - but if it’s just physical it isn’t actually yoga. Iyengar Yoga works on the whole person at all levels, so yes, it will improve fitness, flexibility, stability, but it will also work on balancing mind and emotions, improving breathing and reducing stress levels – your holistic development."
classes, are Senior Level 3 teachers and have sixty years’ teaching experience between them. Many teachers and practitioners from all over the UK and beyond, even teachers of other schools of yoga, come to study with them. They are also regularly invited to teach all over the UK and internationally.
Take the First Step
The best place to start is a foundation course. This is a short series of sessions in a small group (maximum eight) designed to
Learn with Experienced Teachers
At Bath Iyengar Yoga Centre all teachers are experienced yoga practitioners who have also completed years of teacher training and rigorous assessment. Richard and Kirsten, who created the centre and still teach many of the
Richard Agar Ward, director of Bath Iyengar Yoga Centre
give you a firm basis. Completing the course gives you three months free membership of the centre. If you already have some yoga experience then you can start at a higher level – contact the centre for advice. Early booking is advised as classes get booked up; the next foundation courses are: Monday mornings 11.45am–1.15pm 15 January – 5 February Wednesday evenings 6.00pm–7.30 pm 17 January – 7 February. Free Yoga Sessions for National Iyengar Yoga Day, Saturday 13 January: Yoga for Winter Sports 10.00am-11.30am Yoga for Cyclists 2.15pm-3.45 pm Yoga for Insomnia 4.00pm-5.30pm.
Bath Iyengar Yoga Centre, 14 Charlotte Street, Bath BA1 2ND 01225 319699 www.bath-iyengar-yoga.com office@bath-iyengar-yoga.com
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Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions
B AT H G E T S S ER I O US
It could be all change at the Rec
QUOTE OF THE ISSUE
“I WAS A SHOWJUMPER AND ALSO DID STUNTS IN FILMS”
RUGBY
STADIUM OF THE FUTURE A new home for Bath Rugby should benefit the local community, support amateur sport and be the catalyst for riverside regeneration A lead architect is to be appointed to design an ‘exceptional’ stadium for Bath Rugby at the Rec. The move comes following a nine-month consultation on redeveloping the world-famous site. It means previous designs have been shelved, with flagship project Stadium for Bath bringing together the club, Bath Rugby Foundation and Arena 1865. “For most of this year, we have been listening to the people that live and work here in Bath,” says Tarquin McDonald, chief executive, Bath Rugby. “This is a complex project, of huge importance to all involved and we will get it right if we all work together. “We now believe there is an opportunity to create something exceptional in the heart of this incredible city. Something which reflects its ambition and rich heritage and is a source of pride and inspiration for
everyone. At the core of this sits a new stadium at the Rec and a new home for Bath Rugby.” The redevelopment is also an opportunity to regenerate the riverside and get more people involved in sport in the city. “There is a unique opportunity to create a destination which revitalises the riverside, which benefits and enhances the community and encourages healthier living through accessible and inclusive sporting participation,” adds Tarquin. “We believe that with the right design team we can find a solution which both celebrates and complements Bath, and which ensures that Bath Rugby continues to be a source of pride and inspiration for the city.” For more: www.stadiumforbath.com
The equine career of leader of the council Tim Warren For more: page 126
£100m THE BIG NUMBER
The likely annual council spend in future years For more: page 126
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BUSINESS INSIDER
I EARNED £1.61 PER HOUR ON MY FIRST EVER
JOB
ONE TO WATCH
SAM LAITE The founder and director of FWD Thinking started small, but in just a few years has a plush office in the heart of Bath. He explains why job candidates should Go Forth... Tell us a little about your background I’ve run FWD Thinking in Bath for the last three years and prior to that worked in the recruitment industry, always specialising in placing marketing, digital and sales professionals. I love meeting new people and working closely to find their new careers or build their teams.
So what’s different about your business? Our sector expertise and experience, our commitment to working as hard as we possibly can for the benefit of our customers, our knowledge of the recruitment market place in the South West across marketing, digital and sales. Typically, from salaries starting at £25,000 up to £80,000.
What did you want to be when you were little? A fighter pilot.
What are the best aspects of your job? Seeing members of the FWD Thinking team securing new careers for their candidates and then developing that process into a long, lasting relationship where they support further growth into that organisation.
What was your first job? And how much did you earn? I was a runner on a building site earning £1.61 per hour. Tell us a little about FWD Thinking – how, why and when it was started… It started three years ago in the cupboard under the stairs at home, with a PC and a mobile phone. It was created to support marketing, digital and sales professionals in the Bath and South West region who are looking for a recruitment partner that truly understands their specialist sector and can add positivity, passion and a real can-do attitude into helping them secure a new career or build their team with the best talent in the South West. You started out small but what are your offices like now? We are in a superbly-appointed Grade I-listed building at the top of Gay Street. It’s a great place to host our clients for meetings and interviews. 122 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
The slogan on your website is ‘Go Forth’, which strikes us as really positive and upbeat… We’re trying to convey a passion and self-belief that we will do everything we can to work side-by-side with you to secure you a great career opportunity. It’s about generating momentum and taking risks, being bold! Tell us something about you that might surprise us… I was born in Germany, but on a RAF base so not sure if that counts as being German!
www.fwdthinkingrecruitment.co.uk
BATH RUGBY NEWS
MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC Sally Pike
Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters FAMILY MATTERS Bath law firm Thrings has appointed Sally Pike, a family law expert with more than 20 years’ experience, as partner. Sally specialises in all aspects of marriage, civil partnerships, divorce and separation. “This is a fantastic opportunity to join a highlyrespected and forward-thinking firm which places a premium on building close relationships with clients,”she says. “Thrings has strong and clear plans for growth, and it is an exciting time to be joining the firm.” Sally has particular expertise in dealing with mid-to-highnet-worth cases involving complex financial assets such as property, pensions and company assets. www.thrings.com
UPLIFTING Recognising talent in the workplace has led to five promotions at Carter Jonas in Bath. Sharon Hunter and Tom Lowe have each been made associate partners, while Jon Yearwood has been promoted to senior property manager at the property consultancy. Rupert Allsop and Tim Brooksbank have been promoted to senior surveyors, having worked their way up after joining the firm’s graduate training scheme. www.carterjonas.co.uk
Inspirational young people who have overcome adversity were rewarded at Bath Rugby Foundation’s award event on 22 November. The annual presentation took place at the Apex Hotel, Bath, with nine accolades awarded to deserving winners, including Hannah Piper who won the Inspiration Award. The foundation is the charitable arm of Bath Rugby, and uses the game to help some 4,000 vulnerable and disadvantaged young people succeed every year. Judges included player development manager Stuart Hooper, Bath Rugby captain Matt Garvey and foundation operations manager Jen Ritter. “It’s inspiring to see how our nominees have grown and developed and pushed themselves out of their comfort zones,” says Bath Rugby Foundation CEO, Lynne Fernquest. “These rewards are just a snapshot of what is being achieved. The progress of each and every person we work with inspires our team to work even harder, smarter and achieve more.”
Hannah Piper takes centre stage
Among the winners were Josh Prudhoe – recognised for his progress after joining the charity’s HITZ programme – and Kieran Cunningham, rewarded for his ambition to learn more about sports coaching and leadership skills by volunteering to be involved in as many Foundation sessions as possible. The charity is committed to early intervention, and says this approach helps children and young people achieve in life. “We are already back out in the community; coaching, mentoring and fundraising,” adds Lynne. “It shocks us that, in 2017, a child born in Twerton will live on average nine years less than one born in Bear Flat. That’s two miles apart and a few stops on the bus. “Our aim is to intervene early so we can make the biggest impact. It makes sense on every level to create strong children rather than fix broken adults.” For more: www.bathrugbyfoundation.com
BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY From city centre conferences to networking breakfasts, make a note of these dates and make them work for you 1 0 JA N UA RY
Starting in Business Workshop for those thinking about running their own businesses, or who have recently started-up. 6pm; Bath and County Club; www.coolventures.co.uk 1 0 JA N UA RY
Using Social Media for Business Owners with tips and strategies to get your business noticed.
9am; Bath and County Club; www.coolventures.co.uk
Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa; www.bathlifebusinessclub.com
22 J ANUAR Y
29 J ANUAR Y
Bath Life Business Club with guest speaker Tarquin McDonald, chief exec of Bath Rugby Club. Hear about plans for the Rec and just what it’s like being in charge of one of the Premiership’s top clubs. £50; 12pm;
Exporting Essentials for Artisans is aimed at artists and creatives looking for new ways to grow sales and tap into lucrative overseas markets. 9.30am; The Makery; www.eventbrite.co.uk
BUSINESS INSIDER
TERRIFIC THREE
Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing or important local business stories right now
LEARNING FOR LITTLE ONES A nursery has opened in the city centre offering quality childcare, home-cooked food and a home-from-home atmosphere. Riverside Nursery, in Avon Street, is owned by Jacqui Watson and Louise Malkin, who both have decades of experience in childcare. “I already own Alice Park Nursery and had recently sold another business and was looking for a new challenge,” says Jacqui. “I have worked in childcare for the last 30 years. Louise had a career change after having two children, working first as a childminder, then moving on to work in nurseries before becoming a manager.” The nursery offers a warm and caring environment and has room for 45 children from three months to five-years-old. “We employ staff of the highest quality to ensure that the children within our
care have access to understanding, caring and nurturing staff to help with their development,” adds Jacqui. “We also ensure that we have new resources that are easily accessible to the children throughout the day.” Activities are designed to help develop gross and fine motor skills and there’s a large garden for outdoor play. www.childcarebath.co.uk
HURRY! AWARDS CLOSE 12 JANUARY! Happy to be down by the Riverside
Illustrious sponsorship from the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL & SPA EXTENDS AWARDS SPONSORSHIP The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa has given the Bath Life Awards the unprecedented endorsement of a three year extension as Headline Sponsor. Together with its illustrious brand partner Taittinger, the hotel will have backed the Awards for six years in all. Its general manager Jonathan Stapleton says, “We are delighted to extend our mutually-rewarding relationship with the Bath Life Awards as Headline Sponsor, alongside our brand partner Taittinger, for a further three years, until 2021. The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa are entering a pivotal year in 2018, establishing and growing brand partnerships to become recognised both locally and internationally as an all-encompassing lifestyle brand. “Committing to a further three years of headline sponsorship for the prestigious 124 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Don’t leave your Nomination till the last minute, get entering now!
Bath Life Awards supports us in our efforts and allows us to be a true part of the local community, whilst supporting innovation and prolonged success for other leading Bath-based businesses, many of whom share our long-term visions. “The entire RCH team looks forward to continuing our fruitful relationship with The Bath Life Awards and to spreading the message of the sheer vitality of this wonderful event.” For MediaClash, the publisher of Bath Life, chief exec Greg Ingham added, “Truly excellent! We’re very proud to have the long term support of the iconic Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa and Taittinger. “Onwards to the Awards!” Nominations for the Awards are open until 12 January. For more; www.bathlifeawards.co.uk
Nominations are flowing in for the Bath Life Awards, and local businesses are urged to move quickly to get their entries in before the 12 January deadline. The advice to those hoping to scoop an Award at the glittering event on 1 March is not to leave it until the last moment and risk selling their achievements short. Any company can enter the Bath Life Awards. Nominations can be made via the Awards site, and companies can enter multiple categories. This year there’s an additional question asking companies what they’ve done for local charities or civically for Bath. “Business is changing, teams are changing: people are very proud of what they do in their cities,” Steph Dodd, event manager of Bath Life’s publisher MediaClash says. “And employees are often the ones driving their seniors to do more and choosing places to work where there is a social conscience. This question will give our judges much more insight into how companies operate.” The Finalists will be unveiled by email, on the Awards site and on Twitter, on the Grand Reveal Day of 16 January, when Finalist-only tickets will also go on sale. For the first time ever, ticket sales for the Awards have had to be reserved for Sponsors and Finalists only, due to exceptional demand. “These Awards are set to be our biggest and best yet,” Steph adds. “We’re very pleased to have such strong support from Sponsors, and with such high demand for a seat at the ceremony, it’s set to be an incredible night!” Sponsors of the Awards are led by Headline Sponsor, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa together with its brand partner Taittinger; plus Platinum Sponsor Bristol Airport; and Savills, Fidelius, Bath Audi, Bath Rugby, Minuteman Press, Stone King, Bluefin, Bath BID, Tile & Flooring, Apex Hotels, Novia, Hope House, Curo, Kersfield, HomeLets, Bryers, First Bath, Hawker Joinery, Bath Volkswagen, soVision IT, Clifton Marquee Company, Hotel Indigo, Sub 13 and Enlightened Lighting. Feature sponsors are Circo, Vistage, SearchStar and FWD Thinking. Silver Sponsors include Mogers Drewett, Pearson May and the Trevor Osborne Property Group. www.bathlifeawards.co.uk @BathLifeAwards
BUSINESS INSIDER
BATH LIFE BUSINESS CLUB
BALANCING THE BOOKS
Attracting new businesses to Bath, raising revenue, and making cuts to the budget – Councillor Tim Warren, the leader of B&NES Council, explains why running the council is taxing
W
e want our politicians to be open, so when one is, it’s refreshing – even if the answers are, perhaps, a little disconcerting. The politician answering off the cuff is Tim Warren, the leader of B&NES Council and guest speaker at November’s Bath Life Business Club (BLBC). And that’s the beauty of BLBCs – every speaker takes part in an unrehearsed Q&A session so the answers are unscripted. That could be why some of Tim’s answers are a little idiosyncratic, so let’s get these out of the way first. There was the referral to female council colleagues as ‘girls’. There’s the recounting of a conversation with Marvin Rees, the Mayor of Bristol, about his wife. “I told him he’s punching well above his weight,” says Tim. There’s also a misguided attempt at humour at the expense of those with special needs. “I thought I was special,” he says of being asked to run as a councillor. “At the selection meeting, it was like The Addams Family reunion, and I looked around and realised I was the only one that was not special.” It’s an unfortunate remark and a shame, as it’s clear Tim has done well for himself. His first job, when he was 11 or 12, was riding ponies, and he left home and school before his 16th birthday. “I went to work in Warwickshire for a chap called Ted Edgar; my workmate at the time was Nick Skelton who won the gold medal at the last Olympics,” says Tim. “I went showjumping for a little bit, my parents got divorced so I came home, I was 18 then, and I have been self-employed ever since.” His equine career is an accomplished one; he was a showjumper and eventer, and has represented Great Britain. He’s also been a stuntman – how many politicians can put that on their CVs? – and has made a long career of buying and selling horses. That real-life horse trading is also the reason he voted remain in the EU referendum. “I was a Remainer – purely selfishly because I used to buy a lot of horses in Holland and Ireland and was dealing in euros all the time,” he says. “I can’t afford to buy in euros any more, so, other than that, I’m happy with the result.” But to Bath – and his unenviable task of having to make cuts, including that of making some 15 per cent of the council
Tim says what he thinks
workforce redundant. “The last administration had to cut £36m and that was tough,” says Tim. “We have got to cut close to £50m on top of that by 2020. “You’re talking about £120m [council spend] now and we’ll cut £40m off that. “We probably started at £200m [when the cuts begun under the previous administration] and will halve the original amount.” It’s clear that when it comes to the council spend in years to come, there’s number-crunching to be done. And Tim’s tactic of playing hardball with the Treasury really added up. “When we were doing the devolution deal, it was great – we were looking for £30m a year and the Treasury were talking about £12m,” says Tim. “I said that’s no good to me, I have got it set at £30m, and they said ‘what about £16m?’. “I said thank you very much, stood up, shook their hands and walked out of the Treasury [and on the offer]. “A week later the phone goes and I was asked how much I needed, and I said £30m a year, and they said alright. That was quite nice.” But that money won’t affect today’s budgets so Tim also has the difficult job of trying to keep morale high. “We employ 2,000 people, and 300 people are to be made redundant,” he says. “It’s difficult, even in my own office, you’ve got girls who are excellent and they’re not sure about the future. “You look around and there are five people, but three people could do the work and that is the way it has to be now; some people may well end up moving to the private sector. “You have just got to say to the girls [in his office] it is happening – 15 per cent will be made redundant, however 85 per cent will be safe. It is trying to keep it as positive as you can.” One thing he’s particularly positive about is Bath and his vision for the city’s future. He’s hoping for a change in Government legislation so planning applications for listed buildings can be charged for – these are currently free and could bring in some much-needed revenue. He also says Bath’s two universities are a huge drain on resources and hopes to change that. “I am aware that universities bring in a massive amount to cities, but they are bankrupting the council,” he says. “Universities are charities, so we don’t get business rates – what has been agreed [with the University of Bath] is probably five per cent to what we should be getting in business rates. We’re talking big
I GOT A LETTER FROM A REFUGEE SAYING ‘THANK YOU B&NES, I WOULDN’T BE HERE WITHOUT YOU
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money, we’re talking probably a million quid for that.” The university also pays a peppercorn rent, agreed 150 years ago, something Tim has asked the outgoing vice chancellor Dame Glynis Breakwell to look at. As students don’t pay council tax, this means the proliferation of buy-to-lets has an impact on council revenue too. “If we moved out every student in the city and moved families in, we would be £4.4m better off in council tax,” says Tim. He’d like to see a spa quarter in Bath – although there’s no money in the kitty for this – and the concrete blocks currently placed around Bath Christmas Market, to thwart a vehicular terrorist attack, replaced with fountains to up the spa ante. And, plans have been discussed for paving slabs to be sponsored in a revenue-earner – a Bath take on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, if you will. The council will also continue to increase its property portfolio by borrowing at low interest rates. The building occupied by Lloyds Bank in Milsom Street is now council-owned, as is the RAC building in South Gloucestershire. The former brings in a profit of £1m a year. “We’re doing a lot of that now, but it can be risky – we have borrowed money on 20 years and the interest rates are very low now,” says Tim. And flagship riverside development Bath Quays could help provide for the long-term future of the city. B&NES Council is underwriting the project – although Tim isn’t quite sure of the figure – and hopes it will attract new businesses to the city, including digital companies. There will also be housing, a new bridge and a flood alleviation scheme. “There should be 3,000 or 4,000 jobs there,” says Tim. “In 2019, the first people will be in, building will start next year.” There are clearly many variables on a major project like this, including exact timings and scale (B&NES has previously estimated jobs at 2,700). But it’s good to know there’ll be significant muchneeded office space in the city. And there’s no doubt that with all the development taking place, Bath is buzzing, and Tim thinks the city is “recession-proof”. He’d like to help preserve its identity with more indies and says they will pay lower business rates – although he’s not sure of the figure yet. As for frontline council-run services, Tim says these will never return to their pre-cut levels. For example: meals for the elderly could be provided by other businesses, he feels Bath Central Library has to move to save £400,000, while smaller libraries are set to be run by volunteers to
Bath Quays should bring new industry to the city
save another £400,000. And preventative services – designed to help families early on and stop problems being compounded, and therefore more expensive to solve – continue to be in the target line, possibly because their success is harder to quantify. “The easiest cuts to make are preventative because no one sees them, however if we can spend it here, we can save tenfold to what we have to pay out later on – it is finding that bit to spend here,” says Tim. And, as someone who has worked hard and been blessed with success, Tim sees no reason why others can’t do this too. “It’s a bit of a nanny state and people come to the council for everything. You have to look after yourselves a little bit, you have to be a bit responsible,” he adds. “Dare I say emptying the rubbish bins every week – why can’t you sort the stuff [recycling] out?” And despite the brickbats (it goes without saying there are very few bouquets for councillors), there is one letter that Tim says has made it all worthwhile. “It puts a tear in my eye every time, changing refugees’ lives, and probably saving their lives, to be honest with you,” he says. “I got a letter from one of them saying, ‘Thank you B&NES, I wouldn’t be here without you.’ That is my prized possession and will be passed through the family.” For more: www.bathnes.gov.uk
FRESH THINKING OVER A FINE LUNCH
The Bath Life Business Club is a select group of senior business people. It features a leading speaker and a damn fine two-course lunch. The next meeting is on 22 January when our speaker is Tarquin McDonald, the chief exec of Bath Rugby Club. If you’d like to join, please contact Stephanie Dodd (Stephanie.Dodd@mediaclash.co.uk). These events sell out quickly, so look out for the emails...
The Bath Life Business Club is sponsored by Bishop Fleming
New Recruits for the New Year Working with businesses in Bath and the surrounding areas z
Call us: 01761 235741 Email: enquiries@simplerecruitmentltd.co.uk www.simplerecruitmentltd.co.uk Follow us:
NEW TO THE CITY In our regular business feature welcoming new managers and businesses, the Bath Business Improvement District (BID) is pleased to introduce three newcomers
TIM O’SULLIVAN Apex City of Bath Hotel The general manager jumped at the opportunity to work in Bath, and came to the city in January.
facilities have capacity for up to 400 guests. We also have a wonderful bar and restaurant serving up great cocktails and a fantastic menu of dishes made with local, seasonal produce – as well as a gym, pool and sauna.
Where were you before? Before moving to Bath, I lived in a small market town called Uttoxeter in Staffordshire.
Any exciting news or plans for the business? Our main focus is our guests – learning what they want from us, what we’re doing well and what we could do better – so that we can go about exceeding their expectations and really look after them and their wellbeing during their stay. T
How are you finding it and are there any differences? It was much smaller and quieter and just didn’t have as much going on, so I find Bath very different. I love it – it’s got a great buzz and is obviously beautiful with amazing heritage and character. It’s a small city so everything is close by and I really enjoy going to rugby matches at the Rec – how many other cities have somewhere like this in the centre? Tell us a little about the Apex and what makes the business different from the rest... The hotel is a four-star, and the largest purpose-built in Bath in terms of bedrooms and conference facilities. The hotel has 177 rooms and the conference and events 128 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
How have you found working with Bath BID? I’ve not worked in a BID city before, I’ve found it refreshing. I’m really pleased with the level of support offered and am focusing on the continuous development of our working relationship. Tell us something unusual about yourself… Being Irish, it won’t come as any surprise that I come from a large family – I have 100 first cousins! The first question people ask me is if I know all of them. Sixteen live in America and I haven’t seen them for a while
so I don’t know them as well but yes, I know all the others! What one thing would you do to improve Bath? Bath is a wonderful location for a city break and also has so much potential in terms of welcoming conference and events business. However, there are traffic and parking problems in the city – but no easy answers though. www.apexhotels.co.uk/
M E M B E R S P R O F I L E B AT H B I D
ED MCADAM, TOM WALKER AND SAM WESTLAKE OF FRAMPTONS
Any exciting news or plans for the business? It has been an exciting and extremely busy 18 months for the three of us and we’re delighted to announce we’ve been shortlisted for two Casual Dining Awards 2018 – Best Independent Restaurant Under Five Sites and Best Small Employer of the Year.
What brings you to Bath? And when did you arrive? We all worked in and around Bath in our previous jobs and have a love for the city. We fell in love with our corner of the Empire Grand overlooking Pulteney Bridge and the Weir and opened our doors on 14 June this year. Where were you before? The three of us were all located in Tunbridge Wells in Kent developing and opening our second site there, which opened on the 8 December 2016. How are you finding it and are there any differences? We’ve found Bath to be an incredibly welcoming city and we are really enjoying getting involved with the local community. Tell us a little about Framptons and what makes it different from the rest... We pride ourselves in sourcing our ingredients locally (within a 25 mile radius) and changing our menus on a seasonal basis. Framptons provides a warm welcome to all throughout the day in a quirky space that displays many of its original historical features.
How have you found working with Bath BID? Within weeks of getting to Bath we were invited to the annual meeting where we were very well hosted and welcomed into the fold. We have maintained a close working relationship and often see the Bath BID team in Framptons for a coffee. They have always been on hand whether it is to help us promote events or keep our wonderful corner of Bath looking tidy. What are your hobbies… I have a secret love of castles and churches, Sam is a birds of prey fanatic and Tom is an ex-Pea Shooting Champion of the World. What one thing would you do to improve Bath? Make it easier for independent businesses to gather together and share best practices... and of course less traffic. www.framptonsbar.co.uk/bath
PATRICIA MAUFRAS DU CHATELLIER Café Oulala What brings you to Bath? I opened a chocolate shop in the ground floor in December 2016, and then decided to open a French coffee shop on the first floor What are your career highlights? I come from hospitality in France. I ran a boutique hotel with a restaurant for 15 years, and then several hotels all around France.
The Bath Business Improvement District (Bath BID) is an independent, not for profit, business-led initiative voted for by the businesses of Bath in 2011. Bath BID is part of a nationwide movement which now comprises approximately 75,000 businesses who invest over £200m in their local trading environment. • Business Improvement Districts have been in place since 2005 and are recognised as a successful way for businesses to champion their interests and deliver tangible results. • Bath BID is in its 6th year and has established a reputation for successful
And what are your interests? Physically, I love to walk and trek and did it all over the world. I like art and painting, especially from the 18th century. The last museum I visited was Le Prado in Madrid, a month ago. What would you like Bath to remember you for? I would like Bath to remember me for the dream the chocolate shop gave them, and the warmth of the Café Oulala. Unit 5, Burton Street, Bath
management of the city, keeping the streets clean and tidy, promoting and supporting the night-time economy and creating marketing promotions and events which make a difference to the businesses in the city. • The BID is always delighted to offer a warm welcome to new business people to the city, to support new businesses to become part of the economic life of the city and to help them to grow their profile in Bath.
www.bathbid.co.uk
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R e c r u i t m e n t a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e
Meet the recruitment consultant The experts who will help you find the perfect candidate or dream job
Katherine Shields
Imperial Recruitment 01225 484190 www.imperialstaff.com How long have you been established for? We originally set up in South Kensington 21 years ago! In 2008 I set up the Bath office whilst relocating from London to my home town. We have gone from strength to strength, gradually moving more of the business from London to Bath. We still have a lovely office in Kensington which I visit regularly to keep an eye on things and get my London “fix”! What areas of recruitment do you specialise in? We look after all aspects of private household recruitment and have three agencies: Imperial Nannies (live in, daily, temp and permanent nannies), Staff of Distinction place butlers, housekeepers, cooks, gardeners, chauffeurs, estate managers etc and Maternally Yours for maternity nurses. We cover all of these throughout the UK and overseas. What sets you apart from other recruitment companies? We have a lot of celebrity and high profile clients that come to us from recommendations. All our candidates are thoroughly vetted, personally interviewed and we hand-pick the very best candidates for each role.
Gemielle Davies Travail Employment Group 01225 775885 www.travail.co.uk
What sets you apart from other recruitment agencies? We have a senior management team who collectively have been with Travail for over 150 years! This stability provides us with a strong support network and locally we have an excellent knowledge of the local area and business having been trading for 23 years. How long have you been established for? Travail Employment Group has been offering recruitment services since 1977 and the Trowbridge branch recently celebrated its 23rd anniversary, this experience, combined with our continued passion, ensures that both job seekers and our clients receive the very best available recruitment experience throughout our UK branch network. We really listen to the needs of our candidates and clients. What are the most rewarding aspects of the job? As a consultant the most rewarding part of the role is to inform a candidate that they have been successful in their search for their perfect role, and at the same time finding the perfect team member for the client. We build lasting relationships with both candidates and clients, this gives me a great sense of achievement and satisfaction.
130 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Rachael Clements
Travail Employment Group 01225 775885 www.travail.co.uk How long have you been in recruitment? I joined Travail in 2004 as a consultant, when the previous owner retired in 2010 I took over ownership alongside my brother Tom Clements. I now work for the family business as an office manager and oversee the day-to-day running of the office. I pride myself on our strong links to the area which gives us a good understanding of the marketplace, enabling us to support clients with their requirements and candidates with their future career aspirations. What areas of recruitment do you specialise in? We recruit for a variety of sectors including office support, light industrial, skilled & technical, executive recruitment and catering. Our team has combined industry experience totalling 25 years and this experience is invaluable in being able to guide candidates and clients through the everchanging employment needs of commerce and industry. Tell us what your company does for charity We support local charities, in particular sponsoring and taking part in organised events for Dorothy House Hospice.
loretta moore
Redberry Recruitment 01749 330630 www.redberryrecruitment.co.uk What areas of recruitment do you specialise in? We are a multi-sector agency covering both temporary and permanent in various sectors from warehouse and administration to senior supervisory, sales and marketing through to management and senior appointments. We cover divisions in engineering, finance, commercial, industrial and creative. How long have you been established for? Red Berry Recruitment celebrated its 10th anniversary this year opening our fourth office in Cardiff. Our Somerset Branches are located in Shepton Mallet, Yeovil, and Bridgwater. What are the most rewarding aspects of the job? I have been in recruitment for nearly three years and I love my job, the clients I deal with, the people I work with and the relationships I build with candidates along the way. I have huge job satisfaction as my aim is to secure work for candidates of all levels and skill sets. I am committed to offering a good service and pride myself on making sure my clients and candidates always have the information they need to make the recruitment process as easy as possible. There is nothing better than helping people reach achieve career goals.
a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e R e c r u i t m e n t
Susan Hamilton
karen everett
Wishlist Recruitment 01225 684266 www.wishlist-recruitment.com
Appoint Recruitment 01225 313130 www.appoint.co.uk
What area does Wishlist specialise in? Our clients are predominantly Bath and Bristol based IFAs, Wealth & Asset Managers, Wrap Platforms and Financial Planning companies. The organisations we work with are confident in our ability to source them the best candidates with the most relevant CVs.
What sets you apart from other recruitment companies? Longevity. We have been in Bath since 1999, and as an independent agency this reflects the strength of our relationships with our clients who provide us with repeat business. A lot of our business is through referrals and recommendations which is testament to the high levels of service we offer. We have a team who are committed and loyal to the Appoint brand, myself included. I joined the team in 2010, starting as a trainee and progressing to recruitment manager. I also completed the REC Diploma in Recruitment Management at the beginning of the year to enhance my existing knowledge and professional development.
What sets Wishlist apart from other recruiters? Wishlist has an impeccable reputation in the Bath area and within the industry as a whole and we take great pride in sharing our market knowledge with our clients. As a small, independent company we have the freedom to focus on what is most important to our clients and we can adapt our methods to best suit their working style. We are not a ‘hard sell’ style agency and we like to keep our methods simple; sourcing the best talent for our clients is what we do. We do offer discounted rates for any new clients wishing to try us out. What do you enjoy most about your job? For me, there’s nothing more important than getting to know my candidates and exploring the best opportunities for them. What brings me the most satisfaction is finding someone their dream job! I love hearing how well my candidates are doing in their new role and feel very proud when I hear they have been promoted.
What are the misconceptions about recruitment? That we are expensive. There is a lot more that goes on behind the scenes than people perhaps realise, it is certainly not a case of just sending a CV and demanding a fee! We follow a strict process ensuring that only relevant candidates reach our clients; screening a high volume of CV’s and conducting both phone and face-to-face interviews before the CV is put forward for consideration. We manage the whole process through to the offer stage and follow up afterwards to ensure both our clients and candidates are happy.
SAMANTHA FANTHORPE
alison watson
Juice Recruitment 01225 447870 www.juicerecruitment.com
Juice Recruitment 01225 447870 www.juicerecruitment.com How long have you worked in recruitment? I have worked in recruitment for 20 years and I joined Juice just over 13 years ago it feels like yesterday! What areas of recruitment do you specialise in? I am responsible for providing temporary, interim and contract support to companies across the Bath and Somerset areas. Our clients’ needs vary enormously and I always have exceptional temporary candidates registered who I know will offer enormous value to my clients and hit the ground running!
What sets you apart from other recruitment companies? Juice is a business that stands out in recruitment! I’m so proud of the client relationships we’ve developed – from start-ups to large corporates, Juice believes in providing an honest, integral, dynamic and energetic approach to everybody we meet and the businesses we represent. What are the most rewarding aspects of the job? I love building relationships – nothing beats a candidate being over the moon at a fresh new opportunity or a client being super excited about dazzling new talent!
What advice would you give to an employer? I always say to clients if they are seeking a new temporary employee, recruit based on core values – honesty, integrity and commitment – you can train the rest. What are the most rewarding aspects of the job? I love it when a candidate you have placed in a temporary assignment is offered a permanent position. This highlights the exceptional calibration of candidates we have registered at Juice!
Which employment sectors are growing? Most recently we’ve seen great growth in the professional services, senior appointments and creative/digital sectors. I am delighted to be heading up Juice’s Specialist Division having worked across the Bath and Bristol markets for 13 years. I have recently seen so many superb candidates and I cannot wait to provide this exceptional senior talent to businesses across the South West. How long have you been established for? Juice will be celebrating its 20th year in business next May and we are all looking forward to birthday celebrations. I’ve seen Juice grow enormously and with so many exciting plans on the horizon, I am looking forward to the forthcoming years!
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R e c r u i t m e n t a d v e r ti s i n g feat u r e
dan barfoot
CMD Recruitment 01225 805080 www.cmdrecruitment.com What sets you apart from other recruitment companies? The biggest thing in my eyes which sets us apart is, even with nearly 30 staff, we have two directors who still actively recruit for roles, the main reason is the passion they have and desire to still look after the clients they brought on when the business was in its early stages, so still ensuring they get the same service. What are the misconceptions about recruitment? That we simply have a pool of people waiting to be offered work, as in this candidate driven market sometimes it takes a lot more than simply placing a job advert to find candidates. Some candidates also need more support when going through some recruitment processes and we try and support this with a personal touch. How long have you worked in recruitment? I’ve worked in recruitment now for over 13 years after more than 10 years in the army, and love the fresh challenges we face on a day-to-day basis with no day the same. How big is your team? We have a team of nearly 30 staff, and what’s testament to us is the number of long term staff we have developed and retained. This is key to clients as for some of them, who stay in roles for a long duration, it means they get the same point of contact over time.
Jose Garcia-Brennan CMD Recruitment 01225 805080 www.cmdrecruitment.com
How long have you worked in recruitment? I have been recruiting for 20 years now (how time flies!). I originally spent a number of years recruiting in London and Surrey before relocating home to Wiltshire in late 2005. I then spent three years recruiting in central Bath before moving to CMD Recruitment in 2009. I enjoyed my time recruiting in central Bath and although I am now based in Melksham, Wiltshire, I still successfully recruit for a number of organisations there who I have long-standing relationships with. How long have you been established for? CMD was established in 2004 by the two Barfoot brothers. It has now grown to an organisation with three offices and nearly 30 staff. We continue to grow too! What are the most rewarding aspects of the job? Hearing the reaction of an individual at the point of me informing them of a job offer. That makes my week and I am always genuinely happy for the candidate in securing their dream job. In the past, I had worked in a large national high street recruitment organisation where the mindset was that individuals were just products. We do not have this mindset here at CMD! I also find it very rewarding when individuals keep coming back to me. I may have placed them in a role where they eventually need to recruit themselves and it is great that they approach me again.
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GARDENS
WINTER’S PROMISE Nick Woodhouse visits the gardens at Dyrham Park which sympathetically echoes and reflects its beginnings
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By N IC K WOODHOUSE Photo s by JOH N L AW
t’s a shame that we so often turn our backs on the garden over these colder, less inviting months. Habitually, the biggest space we have available to us tends to get the same treatment as that slightly unruly, unpredictable uncle visiting on Christmas Day. Instead of embracing it and hoping it behaves itself, the garden can instead become ignored, only getting a look-in on a trip to the bins. And more’s the pity; as the leaves bid their autumnal farewell to their summer homes, the garden’s true skeleton finally reveals itself. With this revelation comes the test, too, of a well-designed garden; hopefully a pleasing balance of mass and void and a reliance on more than just summer’s showy plumes. A trip to Dyrham Park, a stone’s throw from the city, presents a garden that would pass any such test with flying colours, providing inspiration for gardens large and small. The gardens at Dyrham Park today are very different to those created by colonial administrator William Blathwayt in the late 17th century. His colossal renovation works to the dilapidated Tudor manor were preceded by equally as significant works to the garden, lending the grounds a greater sense of maturity once the baroque house we see today was completed. Anyone lucky enough to get an invite then would have seen formal water gardens taking their inspiration from Dutch gardens such as those at Paleis Het Loo. Hugely proud of his collection of terraces, parterres and canals, in 1712 he commissioned engraver Johannes Kip to create his bird’s eye recording of his creation. It’s this very engraving that has provided the inspiration for the ongoing transformation project currently in full swing. What makes it particularly exciting is that it’s not a straight recreation of the 17th-century garden but one that sympathetically echoes and reflects its beginnings. And as with those early beginnings, the task in hand is no small undertaking. Fashion in garden design turned its back on the formal in the 18th century, favouring instead the growing English landscape garden. The opulent gardens to the east of the house were replaced by the tranquil parkland grazed by the herds of fallow deer we see today. Equally, the terraces to the west of the house, which once offered fountains, statues and orchards became overlooked and left to nature. Unchecked trees and encroaching brambles denied light to the planting below and hid the very terraces from view. They’re now often referred to as Mr Blathwayt’s Lost Terraces, the clearing of which started in 2001. The layout of the adjoining avenue has seen recent changes too; the existing herbaceous, shrub and tree borders were swept away in 2015 to make room for the introduction of the formal, long strip beds so unmistakable in Kip’s engraving. As with any new planting 134 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
scheme, inevitable gaps await individual plants to gain maturity and stature. So annuals have been planted over the last few summers, turning bare soil into injections of colour. On our late November visit, these annuals had just been cleared to allow for the planting of tulips, part of a larger plan to plant 61,000 bulbs this winter. But even in its youthful throws and with the beds fresh from a recent clearing, the structure offered in winter by the clipped evergreen standards and topiary cones adds rhythm and height-variety as well as highlighting the strong, parallel lines of the beds. The eye is drawn perfectly and effortlessly to the centrepiece itself: the house. Walking by the less formal pools of the gardens, evergreen structure is provided by shrubs more relaxed in form; mahonia × media or the cloud-like hebe rakaiensis. Running a low-level shrub of the latter along the edges of beds not only provides year-round interest but can also hide the lower foliage of perennials that have passed their seasonal best. This particular shrub also provides a softer feel to that of box hedging, and without the fear of the dreaded blight. Taller shrubs have also been introduced to add heightinterest, with varieties being chosen for their stem colour. Dogwood and willow are pruned hard early every spring to encourage fresh, vibrantly coloured stems that really come into their own in winter once their leaves have dropped. Further height is also provided by perennial grasses, their seed heads faded to more subdued tones but providing a structural austerity and glistening framework when dusted in the winter’s iridescent frost. Despite its grandeur, there is plenty at Dyrham Park to inspire and encourage us in our very own outdoor spaces, regardless of the scale. And it also acts to remind us how much we could be doing out there, pushed on by that stimulus. The winter season at the gardens is still a hive of activity with plans for the clearing of timber from the Lost Terraces and the mulching of various beds once the bulbs have gone in. January will also see works starting on the Physic Garden, restoring it to its former role in the cultivation of medicinal herbs. So perhaps we need to give our own gardens another chance this winter; it is the season of giving after all.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park Nick Woodhouse is the co-director of interior and garden design company Woodhouse & Law on 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath; 01225 428072; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk
An ongoing transformation project is currently in full swing wihin the gardens of Dyrham Park
The gardens at
Dyrham Park today are very different to those created in the late 17th century
A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E L E G A L F O C U S
THINKING AHEAD Local legal expert HELEN STARKIE offers up some advice for issues that may arise in the year ahead
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ome of the most common questions we get asked in our practice are along the following lines:–
My friend has transferred the ownership of her house to her children to avoid nursing home fees when she gets old, and inheritance tax when she dies. Should I do the same? Almost certainly not! Your friend has not solved either issue by transferring her ownership. Should she need care she will be assessed as if she still owned the house as she has deliberately deprived herself of an assessable asset – and if she continues to live in the house her gift will be treated for inheritance tax purposes as not having been made. She has also created the possibility of a whole variety of other problems – among them the exposure of her children to a significant liability to capital gains tax. But there are other sensible ways of planning to minimise the impact of future care costs about which your solicitor can advise you. My friend tells me that I do not need to make a Lasting Power of Attorney now because my husband will be able to deal with my affairs if I become ill. All our assets are in joint names. Your friend is wrong again. Your husband will not automatically be able to deal with your affairs even if your assets are in joint names. Indeed he may find he is unable to access even his own funds in your joint account. Some banks freeze all accounts, including joint ones, when a customer loses their capacity to deal with their finances. And whereas all investments may be held jointly there will almost certainly be some things in your sole name – your pension for example. Surely as I am mentally fully capable there is no need for me to make a Lasting Power of Attorney yet? After all I may never
“YOUR AFFAIRS WILL NEED DEALING WITH AS SOON AS YOU BECOME ILL”
become ill – and I can make a Lasting Power of Attorney if and when I do. You need to have mental capacity to make a Lasting Power of Attorney. Loss of capacity is not always gradual, allowing us to plan; it can happen suddenly (a stroke or a road accident for example) in which case you will have left things too late. Furthermore a Lasting Power cannot be used until it has been registered at the Office of the Public Guardian and that process takes time – often as long as three months. Your affairs will need dealing with as soon as you become ill. My mother suffers from dementia. She has never made a Lasting Power of Attorney or a Will. I cannot access her money to pay her bills and I think there may be a big tax bill to pay when she dies. I am worried sick. What can I do? It is a pity that your mother did not save you the angst you are suffering by taking the simple steps of making a Lasting Power of Attorney and a Will while she was fit and healthy! However it is not too late to sort things out. Although your mother suffers from dementia and may not have sufficient mental capacity to manage her own affairs, she may still have enough understanding to make a Lasting Power of Attorney. Legal tests for capacity differ according to the exercise being undertaken.
Your mother may even have capacity to make a Will (the capacity test here is more complex than that for making a Power of Attorney, but more specific than what is required to manage one’s own affairs independently). A solicitor specialising in the field will be able to assess your mother’s capacity for both exercises and prepare the relevant documents for her to sign if capable. And if your mother does lack capacity all is still not lost. An application can be made to the Court of Protection for a Deputy (possibly you) to be appointed to deal with her affairs – and it is possible to apply to the same court for a statutory Will to be made on your mother’s behalf to address the tax issues you mention.
Helen Starkie Solicitor 5 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2PH 01225 442353 www.helenstarkie.co.uk
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L AW ad v e r tisi n g feat u r e
Meet the Family Lawyer When it comes to the emotive, sensitive and long-term issues surrounding family law, children and divorce, you need to know the right experts who can assist you through those difficult times
Sarah Jackson
Matthew Drew
Lucy Terrell
Rebecca Silcock
What area do you specialise in? Family law – divorce and financial settlements, from modest assets to lottery winners and millionaires.
What key bit of advice would you give to someone considering a divorce? The best outcomes are achieved when couples are not at each other’s throats. Avoid fruitless point scoring and concentrate on the issues of real importance. Consider collaborative law as a constructive and civilised way of resolving disputes. Try to put the needs of any children first and do what you can to isolate them from any conflict.
How long have you been practicing? I qualified in 2007 and have been developing my expertise in family law since then.
What do you specialise in? I specialise in financial negotiations for divorcing people. I tend to assist people with complex financial affairs for example where there are family businesses, trusts, pensions or inherited wealth. I work alongside forensic accountants and other financial experts to ensure we secure the best possible outcome. I am collaboratively trained and will always consider non-confrontational resolution methods. Often where there are complex finances, a creative solution needs to be found and this can rarely be achieved in court. The judges options are limited whereas a negotiated settlement can be financially more advantageous for all.
Partner, BLB Solicitors 01225 462871 www.blbsolicitors.co.uk
What are the challenges? No two clients ever present with exactly the same facts and the law is always changing, which makes the job a challenge, but never dull. Trying to work out what is a fair outcome can be especially hard where there are children involved and there is not enough money to establish both parents in owned properties. What is your favourite part of the job? I love the meticulous task of drafting financial agreements; condensing complex agreement terms into one concise and unambiguous document can be very satisfying. But probably the most rewarding aspect of my practice is family mediation. It is humbling when a separating couple are able to put their differences aside and work together to reach settlement proposals. What sort of misconceptions do you commonly encounter? That instructing a solicitor puts you on an unalterable course to a court battle. With around 95 per cent of my cases being settled through constructive negotiations, this is simply not the case.
Head of Family Law Goughs Lawyers; 01249 712193 www.goughs.co.uk
What is the biggest mistake you see family law clients making? Some clients avoid seeking legal advice and try to represent themselves, often becoming overwhelmed by the process. This may also lead to an outcome that is not in their best interests, especially when dividing capital assets and pensions. They should never let themselves be bullied into agreeing something that doesn’t feel right. My advice is to seek legal advice early on, which often saves time and money in the long run. What professional accomplishment has made you most proud? Building the Goughs team into one of the largest in the South West comprising 10 superb family lawyers.
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Mowbray Woodwards 01225 485736 www.mowbraywoodwards.co.uk
What do you specialise in? All aspects of separation, divorce and finances. Also children’s matters, helping parents agree on arrangements for their children following a separation. I have a specialist accreditation to Resolution in relation to private law children and domestic abuse. What is the biggest misconception about family law? I think some people fear legal costs will escalate out of control. Our policy is to be transparent and honest about costs and where possible we offer fixed fee options. It can be tempting to try and save time and money with a DIY online divorce. However, be warned that cutting corners could cost you dearly in the longer term. What key advice can you give to someone considering a divorce? Simply, come and talk to us. We will listen to your situation, explain your options and ensure you get the best possible outcome, so that you can move on with your new life.
Partner, Mogers Drewett 01225 750 000 www.mogersdrewett.com
If you could introduce one new law what would it be? It would have to be a no fault divorce. Following the recent case where the wife was refused a divorce, I think the time has come to accept that if two people agree to divorce then they should not have to point the finger at one. It means that matters so often start off on the wrong foot. What key bit of advice would you give to someone considering a divorce? Be honest and listen to the advice you are paying for, otherwise it will take longer and be more costly.
ad v ertising feat u re L AW
Jon Toogood
Royds Withy King 01225 730 100 www.roydswithyking.com How has family law changed since you started? I’ve practised family law for over 40 years, sitting as a deputy district judge for almost 30 of those. The biggest change has been that practitioners used to take a mainly adversarial approach, which could involve costly court proceedings. Now we encourage couples to resolve their disputes through mediation or a collaborative approach, benefitting our clients hugely. Technology has of course impacted the workplace and changed the way clients want to interact with their professional advisors. What key bit of advice would you give on divorce? Don’t dismiss counselling, particularly if your emotional well-being has suffered from the breakdown of your relationship. Also, it may be easier said than done, but I would also recommend trying to maintain a civilised relationship with your spouse -– constructive conversations will help make the process less stressful. If you could introduce a new law what would it be? No fault divorce and, subject to some exceptions, the enforceability of pre- and postnuptial agreements. What was your very first job? A postman at Christmas. I was ‘sacked’ after two days because there was ‘no work left’…
Caroline Fell
hollie knapman
What do you specialise in? All aspects of family law, including making arrangements at the outset of a relationship (such as pre-nuptial or cohabitation agreements) and supporting those who are going through a relationship breakdown.
What area do you specialise in? Family law
Head of Family Law and Mediation Team, Stone King 01225 337599 www.stoneking.co.uk
What is your favourite part of the job? Helping people to find solutions and get through what can be a very low point in their lives and helping them to rebuild their futures. What is the biggest misconception surrounding family law? The myth of the common law man and wife. 47 per cent of the public continue to believe that couples who have been living together have the same rights as married couples. This is simply not the case and many people are often left in a very vulnerable position as a result of this misconception. How has family law changed in the last few years? There has been a significant move towards solicitors helping a separating couple in reaching agreement, for example through mediation or round-table negotiations. Stone King has been very much at the forefront of this change.
richard sharp
Associate solicitor Battens Solicitors 01225 562581 www.battens.co.uk
Sharp Family Law 01225 448955 www.sharpfamilylaw.com
How has family law changed over the last few years? Legal aid cuts have made it much more difficult for clients to obtain legal aid meaning that, when in court, there are now many more people representing themselves. If you could introduce one new law what would it be? I would update the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973. It is massively out of date and needs a total overhaul. What is the biggest misconception surrounding family law? The biggest misconception is the belief that decree absolute brings financial claims to an end. It does not, it only brings the marriage to an end. What is the biggest mistake you see your clients making? The biggest mistake is the belief they can find everything they need online when actually bespoke advice is almost always required as no two cases are the same. What is your favourite part of the job? Getting the right result for my client and being in court. If you weren’t working in the legal world what would you be doing? Events planning as I love to organise!
What do you specialise in? Helping separating and divorcing clients to protect children, preserve assets, and limit the destruction and cost that too often occurs when relationships breakdown. What are the misconceptions around what you do? There can be a belief that divorce must be fought in court. After 30 years as a family solicitor, I truly believe every divorce is unique. No one process works for every family, including court litigation. Once I’ve listened to my clients’ concerns, I help them select the right course for their separation, divorce or family issue. The decisions of divorce profoundly affect the future. What was your very first job? In the 1970s I worked as a caretaker’s assistant at the International Anglican School, Jerusalem, Israel What is your favourite part of the job? Solving client problems – helping a client go from despair to hope, and from fear to security, so they can move forward with their lives. What professional accomplishment has made you proudest? Founding Sharp Family Law, a firm focused on minimising the financial and emotional cost of divorce and supporting clients to secure the best outcome for themselves and their families.
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a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e F I N A N C E
HMRC CAMPAIGNS – DO YOU NEED TO BRING YOUR TAX AFFAIRS UP TO DATE? Nick Oliver of Pearson May explains more about HMRC’s campaigns to encourage voluntary disclosure of additional sources of income
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s you may recall, our article published in August of this year included details of the Let Property Campaign which was launched by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) nearly four years ago. The Let Property Campaign is not the only campaign in existence. In the recent past, HMRC have run several campaigns concurrently as part of their continuing drive aimed at encouraging different groups of tax payers to make voluntary disclosures of previously undisclosed sources of income. HMRC increasingly has access to a number of different resources containing information regarding individuals’ sources of income and they are able to use this information to compare to individuals’ tax records to determine whether full disclosure has been made. By taking part in one of the voluntary campaigns, individuals can expect to benefit from lower levels of penalties than would otherwise be imposed if HMRC contact you first. If you have not previously declared all your taxable income, whether mistakenly or deliberately, an HMRC campaign can be a good opportunity to bring your affairs up to date. It is a good idea to seek professional advice if you are considering making use of a campaign and we have the expertise needed to be able to assist you. In addition to the Let Property Campaign, there are other HMRC campaigns which remain open, including the Second Incomes Campaign and the Credit Card Sales Campaign (also known as the Card Transaction Programme). The Worldwide Disclosure Facility is another campaign which HMRC have in place focused on overseas assets and sources of income. We included details of this in our September 2017 article.
“A common source of undeclared income is from online selling activities”
Second Incomes Campaign
The Second Incomes Campaign focuses on individuals who are employed and pay tax through PAYE but who also have additional undeclared income from a separate selfemployment source. HMRC gives various examples of what they class as a second income for the purposes of this campaign which include consultancy fees e.g. for providing training, organising parties and events, providing services such as taxi driving, hairdressing or fitness training, making and selling craft items and generating profits from buying and selling goods e.g. regular market stalls or car boot sales etc. In addition to this, one increasingly common source of undeclared income is from online selling activities where there is an intention to make a profit. Individuals may mistakenly view sources of income such as those mentioned above as a supplement to employment income, without realising that any profit generated from such activities will usually be taxable and would need to be disclosed to HMRC.
Nick Oliver, a partner at Pearson May
Credit Card Sales Campaign/ Card Transaction Programme This campaign is aimed at individuals or businesses who have undeclared income from credit or debit card sales. The campaign is open to all types of businesses, whether operated as sole traders, partnerships or limited companies. HMRC have access to details of credit and debit card payments made to UK businesses and traders since the credit/debit card companies hold this information. HMRC will therefore use this information to identify where businesses and traders may not have paid all the tax they owe on their income.
How to notify HMRC
Notification of intention to make a disclosure under one of the above campaigns must initially be made by completing a standard form. HMRC will then issue a Disclosure Reference Number and a disclosure form for completion. The disclosure form must be submitted within a prescribed time limit and must include calculations of the tax, interest and penalties payable. It is up to the taxpayer to determine the level of penalties that they think should be payable and these are determined by the ‘behavioural’ tests which range from lower levels of penalty if an error or non-disclosure has been made despite taking reasonable care, through to higher penalties if the error or non-disclosure is careless or, in more serious cases, deliberate. The level of penalty will be lower if a voluntary disclosure is made to HMRC before they contact you first. In certain circumstances penalties can also be reduced for cooperating with HMRC as part of the disclosure. Even if there is not an active HMRC campaign which covers your position, a voluntary disclosure can still be made to HMRC’s Voluntary Disclosure Team. It is however less likely that individuals in this situation will benefit from more favourable penalties which can be offered under a published campaign. If you think you may need to make use of any of these campaigns, the Let Property Campaign or need to make a voluntary disclosure relating to any other sources of income, then please do not hesitate to contact us for assistance. The above is for general advice only and no action should be taken without obtaining specific advice.
37 Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DA 01225 460491 mail@pearsonmay.co.uk www.pearsonmay.co.uk
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PROPERTY
SHOWCASE
SANDRIDGE PARK 142 LIFELIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 112 II BATH CLIFTON I www.mediaclash.co.uk
SHOWCASE
PROPERTY
This imposing family home in Melksham not only has a wonderful history, but it comes complete with a swimming pool, a self-contained log cabin for guests, tennis courts and a croquet lawn By E V E LY N GR E E N
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PROPERTY
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e’re very much captivated by the history of the homes and buildings in Bath. For example, it’s said that Mary Shelley wrote the final draft of Frankenstein in the building that is now the home of Timber Treasures on Abbey Green; Jane Austen lived in houses on Sydney Place, Green Park, Gay Street and Trim Street; and legend has it that the author of Goldilocks, Robert Southey, part-wrote the children’s tale at the Walcot Street construction that now houses Etons of Bath. The magnificent family home that is Sandridge Park in Melksham also has an interesting story behind it. It was built in the 1850s by Henry Lopez, and there are two plaques carved in the stone that commemorate the start and completion dates of construction. During World War II, the property was let to the British Army, accommodating up to 600 soldiers, and was visited by President Eisenhower in preparation for D Day. By the mid 1970s, the Lopez family decided to sell Sandridge Park and it was purchased by Andrew Hoogeweegen, an MD of Heineken UK, who undertook a substantial refurbishment project, including replacing the entire roof, and installing central heating and new electrics. Mrs Hoogeweegen, an experienced cook, restored the vegetable garden to its former glory, and upon Andrew’s retirement, started a new venture in organising wedding banquets and private parties in the house. The country house has been further refurbished sympathetically to an exceptional standard by the current owners, transforming the property into an imposing yet manageable family home. Of particular note are the new sash windows, which have vastly improved not only the aesthetics of the house but also the insulation and efficiency. The impressive ceiling heights which feature throughout the house create a wonderful light, bright and spacious feel, especially in the principal reception rooms on the south-facing side. A long corridor leads from the main reception rooms to a stunning morning room with a double aspect, lending itself perfectly as a summer entertaining room. The kitchen has been remodelled to reflect modern family life, and occupies 144 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Clockwise, from top left: the spacious games room; the grounds are complete with tennis courts; the kitchen has been revamped for modern-day living; a formal, bright dining space
HOUSE NUMBERS
15,070
Square foot of space
27
acres of land
£3.25M price
8
bedrooms
5
bathrooms
1
swimming pool
the eastern side of the house attracting the morning light. The owners have also converted what was a garage at one end of the kitchen into a boot room, workshop, laundry room and pantry. Doors lead from the kitchen to a wonderful Mediterranean-style covered terrace with a seating area overlooking the kitchen garden, ideal for enjoying a morning coffee or evening barbeque. A wide, sweeping wooden staircase leads up to a landing area from which the bedrooms are accessed. An outstanding master bedroom occupies the entire southern side of the house with lovely views over the gardens and countryside beyond. There are two dressing rooms and an en suite bathroom. You’ll also find four further bedrooms, two of which are en suite, a separate shower room, and a study which could be used as an additional bedroom if needed. The bedrooms on the eastern side of the house have impressive views and are nicely separate from the principal bedrooms, making them ideal for guests. The second floor contains a study or eighth bedroom, and a large studio room. The house sits at the end of a long drive in a very private position in the centre of beautiful, mature grounds that have been meticulously maintained and cared for. The parkland that surrounds the house and gardens creates a wonderful sense of seclusion, and, on the land, you’ll find a garage, storage shed, and a log cabin which contains two bedrooms, bathroom and a kitchen-cum-living room. There’s also a further garage with space for two vehicles, an additional storage shed and a log store. And if you thought that was everything, you’d be terribly mistaken, for there’s also a covered swimming pool, a tennis court, a kitchen garden, a ha-ha separating the garden from the parkland, and a croquet lawn. The last thing to mention is that these acres of land are a haven for wildlife, and being completely enclosed, the property and grounds make for an ideal spot for young families.
Knight Frank, 4 Wood Street, Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2JQ; 01225 325999; www.knightfrank.co.uk
P R O P E R T Y A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E
GEORGIAN SPLENDOUR Time is of the essence to secure an apartment at the prestigious Fitzroy House
A
unique collection of one, two and three bedroom luxury apartments in central Bath are already proving incredibly popular with buyers, with more than 50 per cent now reserved after launching only three months ago in Autumn 2017. Spanning five Grade I listed townhouses, the distinct lateral residences at Fitzroy House are positioned in Bath’s widest and arguably most grand of addresses – Great Pulteney Street. Created by local property developer, Longacre, each of the 28 apartments have been thoughtfully and lovingly developed to offer the very best in modern living combined with the provenance of such a beautiful, historic building built from iconic Bath stone. Some apartments feature highlights such as private gardens, terraces or private entrances, ultra-modern Bulthaup kitchens, a communal garden and lift access to most apartments. There is also the provision to apply for permit parking and some apartments have private parking. Anna Fairman, associate director at Savills Bath is marketing the scheme. She says: “Many people love Georgian architecture but want contemporary and comfortable interiors and lateral space which is hard to find. Fitzroy House has lifts, parking and sleek open plan interiors with modern kitchens and some
“COMPLETION IS EXPECTED BY SPRING 2018” 150 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
apartments benefit from classical mouldings and shutters. “We have seen a wide ranging demographic of buyers, from local residents wanting to be closer to town to overseas buyers with an affiliation to Bath looking for a lock-up-andleave property. One of the major attractions for all buyers has been the incomparable location, just an easy stroll into the centre of Bath; under 10 minutes level walk from the train station and two from the city centre. The combination of living in such a beautiful listed building benefitting from 21st century design and the convenience of its location has been a key driver in the success of these apartments to date. “With only 50 per cent remaining, completion is expected by Spring 2018 so there are only a few months left to secure one of these prestigious homes.” Behind the beautiful Georgian façade, each character-filled residence has been thoughtfully remodelled to make the most of the apartments’ individual features.
Nicky Ford from Joseph King Interiors led the project. She comments: “As both the architects and interior designers for Fitzroy House our brief was to create high-end residential apartments which would reflect the status and Grade I listing of the Georgian building. A fundamental part of this was to reinstate the original plan form of the building as far as possible and restore the principal rooms to their original sizes. Much of the original ornamentation had been lost in previous works, but surviving plasterwork and architectural features have been restored to their former glory and new, traditional design cornices and ceiling roses have been added. We have combined Georgian architectural features with contemporary kitchens and bathrooms in soft, neutral tones leaving purchasers free to add their own style and colours in their soft furnishings.”
Prices start from £475,000 and the show home is open between 10am-4pm from Thursday to Saturday. To arrange a viewing, or to secure one of the remaining apartments email Giles Harling at gharling@savills.com or call 01225 474591
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Stonework Specialists & General Builders 38 LONG BARNABY, MIDSOMER NORTON, RADSTOCK BA3 2TZ
Tel/Fax: 01761 419422 Fax: 01761 232480 Mobile: 07901 712232 / 07899 927276
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B AT H L I V E S
Q&A
F
ormer Sunday Times and The Telegraph travel columnist and fiction writer Lindsay Hawdon spent months travelling the world with her eight- and 10-year-old children. Her first novel, Jakob’s Colours, was shortlisted for The Authors Club First Novel Award, and now she’s penning her second. Here she tells us about her experience of travelling to over 80 countries… I embarked on a six-month world-wide trip with my two young sons as ‘the rainbow hunters’… I did a talk about this at the Lola Swift shop in Bath over Christmas. Dow, Orly and I travelled to seven countries in search of seven colours, the natural pigments made by the first colourmen, raising money for War Child as we went. We began in Kashmir, one month after floods swept through the city… It was still a mess of mud and silt; we were looking for saffron yellow. From there, we went to China, staying with minority villagers in search of celadon green. In Italy, we found cremona orange – an ancient varnish that covered the Stradivari violins. In New Zealand, at the edge of the world, we swam out to icy waters in search of a seasnail that weeps violet tears. In central Australia, we found red ochre in a dried-up riverbed on the MacDonald Ranges. We climbed 4200m above sea level in Chile to a mine of blue lapis lazuli, and in South Carolina we sought out old slave plantations in search of indigo.
LINDSAY HAWDON
It was a trip inspired by a story I used to tell the boys when they were growing up… When my first novel Jakob’s Colours – a story about a young Roma boy, Jakob, who uses a legacy of colour-making, passed down through the generations, to survive – was to be published, I thought we’d make it a real life adventure.
I’m dyslexic; I always wanted to write, but didn’t think it would be a possibility… So instead of making up worlds, I set off to find them, and spent three years, after I finished school, travelling around Europe, Africa and India. During that time, I had many wonderful and hair-raising experiences, which all somehow seemed pointless unless I wrote them down.
I’m now in the process of finishing a second novel… So I will hopefully do another talk in Bath when that is finished. The working title is Sundogs; it’s set in Alaska and the red deserts of Australia. I seem to be interested in how people survive great loss, and I wanted to set this story in those lands where reality can be twisted without question or judgement. I am a writer of travel and fiction. I began with a travel column for The Sunday Telegraph… It was called An Englishwoman Abroad, which was a series of small vignettes about the people I’d met and places I’d travelled to. That ran for seven years. I’d had my children by then and was bringing them up on my own, so when they
154 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
The writer talks travelling the world with her young children, an awkward moment with Richard Gere, and penning her new book were old enough to manage, we set off to South East Asia and Australia for an 18-month trip featured in a column for The Sunday Times called Have Kids, Will Travel. I regularly write for other publications including The Los Angeles Times, Red magazine, and Condé Nast Traveller.
When I got home, I began working in TV as an undercover reporter for various films… Most notably Britain Undercover: Inside Quarantine – where I worked as a kennel maid for six months, secretly filming the truth behind our quarantine system.
I’ve just moved into part of a converted mill on the crest of Combe Down… My boys and I listen to the hoot of owls at night, and I have two wood pigeons who keep me company in the day as I write. Bath is an inspiring city to live in… I love that the rest of the world comes to it, so you feel linked to other lands. I love that it has a framework of everything; it’s bohemian, arty, hippy and posh all in one. My favourite shops and eateries here are… Lola Swift’s pop-up shop, which returns every Christmas; Raphael’s for a romantic atmosphere and delicious food; and The Wheatsheaf in Combe Hay. My most treasured possession is… The first shells my children found, because they remind me of a time when they were little and we ran away to live by the sea, to light fires on the beach and cook prawns we had fished.
Travelling reminds you how wonderful most human beings are… It restores your faith in humanity. But it can be lonely, stressful, and fear-filled at times. The unknown can overwhelm you, and, with the boys in tow, I’m constantly aware of how precious my cargo is.
Something that not many people know is… I once had to dress up as Pocahontas for the Disney premier of the film and I got my wig caught in children’s presenter Andi Peter’s buttonhole on live TV and wrecked his interview with Richard Gere as a result.
I first came to live in Bath at age eight, and lived here until I left school… I came back to live here in 2012. Bath is a beautiful place to bring up a family, and a lot of my friends have returned.
Jakob’s Colours is available at Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, and Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath. Lindsay’s new book Sundogs is currently being written. For more, and to find out about Lindsay’s travel- and creative-writing workshops, visit www.lindsayhawdon.com
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