OUR SEPTEMBER ISSUE IS OUT! PICK UP YOUR COPY AND ENJOY!

You'll love our marvellous September magazine which features a collection of great reading by our team of wonderful writers as well as beautifully presented advertising by Bath's best businesses.

This month we spoke to writer and director Emma Howlett who grew up in Bath and is bringing her production Her Green Hell to the Ustinov. Teacher and writer Catherine Bruton – who is coming to the Children's Literature Festival – talked to us about her book Bird Boy and the story of how caring for a wounded osprey allows a boy to heal. We also profile exhibitions with wildlife photography (at The American Museum & Gardens) and the unsettling artworks of Paula Rego and Francisco Goya (at the Holburne). You can read a blog from the ever-cheeful Cabin Crew from the Natural Theatre Company and there's the latest fashions from Jigsaw, as well as shopping, food, interiors and just in time for the return to school, our essential guide to education in Bath!

Every month we deliver 15,000 copies door to door, but if you don't get a copy at home then you can pick up a copy at many places around town and from our floor stands at: Waitrose, Sainsbury's [Green Park], M&S Foods in Twerton, Tesco in Weston Village, and at The Holburne Museum. 

Click here to enjoy the digital version of our current issue! 

And if you would like to have a copy sent in the post every month, then we offer a postal subscription for just £33 for 12 issues, £18 for six issues or buy a copy for just £4.25. UK mainland prices. For Euro and World zone subscription prices – click here to subscribe on our website. 

Words by Melissa Blease

Black Bean Nachos

Having a Netflix marathon this weekend? You'll want something tasty to graze on as you hunker down in front of the TV. But if you think that Nachos can't be fully-loaded unless they're fully-loaded with spicy beef, try this super-smoky vegetarian version, packed with punchy flavours and accompanied by a kickin' fresh salsa, and prepare to think again. Ai caramba!

Ingredients (serves 4)

For the Nachos
8 soft corn tortillas
1-2 tsp smoked paprika (plus extra to serve)
2 large, chargrilled red peppers (from a jar), sliced into strips
400g can black beans, drained and rinsed
½ bunch of  fresh parsley, very finely chopped
50g plain, fat-free yogurt
A sprinkling of jalapeños (from a jar)

For the Salsa
4 spring onions, finely sliced
4 tomatoes, deseeded and finely chopped
1 avocado, peeled, stoned and chopped
½ bunch of coriander, finely chopped
1 small garlic clove, peeled and finely grated
The juice of 1 lime

Method

Preheat the oven to 180ºC/gas mark 4. Cut each of the tortillas into 8-10 triangles and spread over two large baking sheets. Spray or drizzle with a little oil and sprinkle the paprika across the top. Bake for 7-8 mins until crisp and leave to cool.

Toss the black beans, sliced peppers and parsley together in a large pan and bring to a gentle heat on the stovetop (stirring regularly). Meanwhile, combine all the ingredients for the salsa together.

To serve, pile the nachos on a large serving dish topped with the bean mixture followed by the salsa, yogurt and jalapeños, sprinkled with a little more smoked paprika.

Red wines of Portugal at The Great Wine Co

Portugal's individuality is both its unique selling point and the reason it continues to suffer from a lack of consumer awareness of the quality of its wines. A country replete with indigenous grape varieties and some of the world's most interesting blended wines, Portugal has long shunned the adoption of international varieties. The wines therefore defy imitation and possess an incredible sense of place.

• Douro Red - Quinta Do Crasto 2021 | £15.95
• O Abanico Reserva - Casa da Passarella 2019 | £18.85
• Vihno Tinto- Artolas 2021 | £9.75
• A Descoberta Tinto - Casa da Passarella 2021 | £14.40

Click here to see this and many more wonderful wines at The Great Wine Co.

Panerai Submersible Luna Rossa Steel 42mm.

Italian luxury watch brand Panerai has a long and deep tradition with the sea and ocean diving. First designed specifically for the Italian Royal Navy, Panerai watches were made for strength, reliability and most of all Panerai were at the forefront of innovation developing luminous dials for maximum visibility and watches capable of reaching depths of up to 300 metres [30 bar] while still keeping perfect time - essential for dark deep sea dives as well as night time navigation.
 The new Submersible Luna Rossa is the latest model to celebrate the maison’s continued collaboration with the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli sailing team who are currently strong challengers for the America's Cup.

The new timepiece comes in a palette that pays homage to the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team colours. A brush-finished, 42mm steel case with Panerai's famous crown protector, there's a matte white dial featuring luminous dots that function as hour markings, complete with a 3 o’clock date, a 9 o’clock small seconds sub-counter and sword-shaped hands. In contrast to the white dial is the unidirectional rotating steel bezel highlighted with a matte black ceramic disc inlay. The watch is powered by the automatic P.900 movement and a 72 hour power reserve, while resistant to up to 300 meters underwater. The steel caseback features an engraving of the new Luna Rossa Sail boat and the rubber and textile black strap is finished with a Luna Rossa Red stripe.

Whether competing in the America's Cup or just having some fun off the Amalfi Coast, this beautiful watch will not only stand the test of time but also every element thrown at it. £9,500

See more of Panerai's Submersible range at Mallory

Wadswick

On the pretty row of shops on Bath’s iconic Pulteney Bridge, Wadswick has in its collection of men’s and women’s fashion and accessories some of the world’s best-loved country brands including Holland Cooper, Barbour, Schöffel, Fairfax & Favor, R.M. Williams, Ariat and Yeti. Wadswick specialises in country lifestyle and their new boutique in Bath builds on over 30 years of country heritage from their flagship store near Corsham, the popular market town seven miles east of the city. There you will find a large clothing collection, a huge range for equestrians and pet lovers, a shooting simulator and a smart, contemporary restaurant. In Bath, their chic range of clothing is perfect for those looking for that smart-casual feel that will take you around the city and into the countryside in style.
Tel: 01225 462300 Web: wadswick.co.uk

Holland Cooper Ladies Country Fleece Gilet, available at Wadswick

This country-style gilet, by Holland Cooper, is made from a polar tech fleece fabric designed to keep you warm on cold days.

This country fleece gilet is the perfect piece for layering under a waterproof jacket or a tweed outer coat. Detailed with faux leather piping and finished with Holland Cooper’s antique brass fastenings and metal hardware.

Wadswick | £99

Click here to buy now or visit the Bath store at  1 Pulteney Bridge, Bath

Sit in style on pieces built to endure

Welcome to handcrafted British furniture makers Arlo & Jacob who opened their newest store yesterday at 3, Broad Street. The small modern family business has its roots in the East Midlands where they create a range of stylish sofas, chairs, footstools and tables. There’s something to suit every taste ranging from more traditional to thoroughly contemporary but all built to endure. Customers are free to browse endless fabrics which include house staples as well as designer options with price points to match every budget. A team of design experts is on hand to offer the best possible service and style guidance.

Opening offer: 10% off if you order now for delivery in time for Christmas
Image shows Hartfield Grande sofa in Truro Moss fabric

Arlo & Jacob. 3 Broad Street, Bath.
arloandjacob.com

Jo Malone London Advent Calendar, available Monday 23 September

The treasured Advent Calendar returns with a classic, festive design to add a little extra razzle-dazzle to December. Get set for Christmas with the British fragrance & lifestyle house’s classic countdown, filled with 25 surprises.

The decorative drawers hide a selection of timeless and seasonal colognes, miniature candles and bath & body favourites in smaller sizes, as well as a Travel Candle and a 30ml festive fragrance.

Jo Malone London | £360
Don't miss out! Click here to sign up in advance.

Chanel, 31 Le Rouge refillable lipstick

The 24 shades – ranging from orange rosewood to deep garnet, and pink beige to cherry red – are vibrant reflections of Gabrielle Chanel's memories, the mastery demonstrated by the ateliers, and the creativity and vitality integral to rue Cambon. Made for singularity rather than subtlety.

The formula, which has been carefully developed by the CHANEL laboratories, offers a long-lasting look and an entirely new sensory experience.

Pictured: 22-Rouge Noble refill (Interchangeable shade refill)

Chanel | Rouge Lipstick £140 | Refill £65
Click here to buy now.

Bath Fashion Festival, 21 & 22 September

The historic city of Bath is set to become the epicenter of fashion innovation and creativity with the launch of the inaugural Bath Fashion Festival (BFF). This groundbreaking two-day event, to be held at the stunning Holburne Museum & Gardens, promises to invigorate the global fashion industry by bringing together renowned designers, influencers, and fashion enthusiasts for an immersive and unforgettable experience.

With contributions from Vivienne Westwood, Bath Fashion Museum, Manolo Blanhik and more!

To purchase tickets click here.
Holburne Museum & Gardens, Great Pulteney St, Bathwick, Bath

Bath Spa University showcases a famous Red Dress for Sustainable Fashion Week

A cross-global collaborative creative project known as The Red Dress will be on display in the Michael Pennie Gallery at Locksbrook Campus between 10am and 6pm from 23 to 27 September 2024.

British artist, Kirstie Macleod conceived The Red Dress project, providing an artistic platform for individuals around the world to tell their personal stories through the craft of embroidery. The burgundy silk dupion dress has been 14 years in the making, with its 87 pieces being continuously embroidered across the globe. The garment has been worked on by 367 women and girls, 11 men and boys and 2 non-binary artists from 51 countries worldwide.

Embroiderers include established professionals and beginners, and span people seeking refuge and asylum; survivors of war; impoverished individuals; students; and even upmarket embroidery studios.

Those who can’t make it can still see The Red Dress up close by exploring its digital counterpart, thanks to an innovative project led by one Senior Lecturer from Bath Spa University. The Digital Red Dress project project involved creating a 3D digital reproduction of the dress using innovative 3D scanning techniques, broadening the reach and accessibility of the Red Dress Project to an online audience.

Click here to book your free tickets.
Bath Spa University - Locksbrook Campus, Locksbrook Road, Bath BA1 3EL

Curated by Daniel McCabe

MacGuffin reveals the hidden life and stories of everyday objects (table, rug, bottle, desk, ball etc.). If it sounds dull, the unusual literal and lateral exploration of its idea ensure that MacGuffin is one of the most intriguing reads around. Issue 14 examines the wall, taking in everything from the Apartheid wall in Palestine to the digital paywall, from memorial murals in Jamaica to the increasingly tall glass facades of modern office blocks. Walls, the publisher says, testify to the tumult of history and humanity’s ceaseless urge to communicate and to sow division. They force us to reflect on the paradoxes of openness and isolation, of enclosure and exclusion. In a world drowning in borders, barriers and barbed-wire fences, MacGuffin asks: what exactly do we want to express or protect? And why? | £23

magalleria.co.uk

Batheaston Art Trail

Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 September
11.30am-5.30pm 

Now in its fourth year, the Batheaston Art Trail has become a regular event in the West Country arts calendar, offering art and craft lovers great days out in a beautiful English valley community.

Painters, ceramicists, illustrators, graphic designers, textile artists, sculptors, jewellery artists and printers will be part of the 2024 art trail, displaying work in their own studios as well as shared venues including the Batheaston New Village Hall and St John the Baptist Church.

The art trail also celebrates Batheaston’s connection with the suffragette movement, with bunting marking the venues in the signature suffragette colours of green, purple and white. There will be a display of suffragette memorabilia in St John the Baptist Church on the trail weekend.

The event is supported by the community group Grow Batheaston, and details of the trail as well as all the artists involved, along with a downloadable map, can be found here.
Art credit: Porcelain Bowl by Rachel Fixsen

Place a bid on Ed Sheeran's donations for charity, 26 September, 4pm

Auctionet are delighted to be hosting a dedicated charity auction from objects donated by global megastar Ed Sheeran at Bishop & Miller Auctioneers in Suffolk.

The Bishop & Miller team are supporting Suffolk charity, St Elizabeth Hospice and Zest with this wonderful and exciting auction of a wide range of objects that have been donated to Ed.

The hammer auction will be taking place on Thursday 26 September at 7pm (UK time).
Ed has kindly donated to the charity a number of items including clothing, trainers, jackets and t-shirts and also Ipswich Town Football Club shirts from his latest sponsorship deal. As part of this fundraising auction there is even some prized musical instruments from his collection that will go under the hammer.

The star lot of the auction is his custom painted Martin LXM acoustic guitar. This C.F. Martin & Co., Inc. LXM 'Little Martin' acoustic guitar has a custom paintwork to the front celebrating Ed’s show at Air Canada Centre, Toronto, on 7th/ 8th July 2017. This guitar was a gift to Ed from Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE Live), together with its Martin & Co. soft gig bag, serial no. M6250685. There is expected to be a lot of interest in this lot and it is expected to achieve way past its very modest estimate of £200 - £400.

If you want something owned by Ed, but your budget doesn’t quite stretch to custom painted guitars, then there are a number of other lots for the Ed Sheeran fan, from his boxed Lego set: The Hobbit - An Unexpected Journey to a collection of board games – there is something in this auction for everyone!

You can bid live online via auctionet.com, Europe's leading online marketplace.
In-person viewing will be available from 4 pm at the Bishop & Miller Stowmarket saleroom, during which there’ll also be musical entertainment, drinks and nibbles.

Read more about St Elizabeth Hospice here.
See all the lots and bid on the auction here through Auctionet.
Bishop & Miller saleroom, 19 Charles Industrial Estate, Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 5AH

Photo credit: Annie Leibovitz

Book now!
ROSSINI’S THE BARBER OF SEVILLE, 28 September

Diva Opera, Monkton, and The MASIC Foundation present The Barber of Seville.
Don't miss this fundraising performance. Book your tickets now!

Adult: £90 / Under 18yrs: £30
To book contact Mike Keighley, or his PA Suzanne (Mike is an old Monktonian, past Governor and President of MASIC) keighleycolo@btinternet.com 01564 741865.

In the Chapel at Monkton School in the Monkton Valley: Monkton Combe, Bath

To learn more click here.

Royal Crescent, Bath

Offered for sale by Cobb Farr Estate Agents

• Exquisite ground floor apartment

• Wealth of breath-taking period detail

• Well equipped Shaker style kitchen

• Handsome period fireplace

• Beautiful walled garden

This is an elegant Grade 1 listed Georgian town house of fine proportions and having been sympathetically divided into 15 beautiful apartments. Apartment 5 is on the ground floor and is positioned beautifully to the rear. This exquisite apartment was the former billiard room for number 14 and has retained the most breath-taking period detail which includes 17 original cartouches, intricate cornicing and beading detail along with a handsome period fireplace and working shutters.

The property is entered through a generous hallway with plenty of built-in storage and easy access to loft space. The main living space is to the rear and benefits from enjoying a fine and quiet aspect overlooking the garden. This beautiful open plan space has a large bow window with three original sashes with working shutters and a handsome period fireplace. To the rear there is a well-equipped hand painted Shaker style kitchen and a well-appointed bath and shower room. Accessed from the living space there is a rear lobby with a large built-in utility cupboard that houses the washing machine, boiler and hot water tank. To the rear, accessed from the lobby there is a pretty, sheltered parterre walled garden, with a wealth of mature shrubs and trees.

For more beautiful Bath properties click here.