BOOK EARLY FOR BATH LITERATURE FESTIVAL 2025

A titan of contemporary literature, a respected lexicographer and a finalist in this year’s I’m A Celebrity TV reality series have been announced as three of the stars for next year’s Bath Literature Festival, which runs from 16–25 May, with tickets having just gone on sale.

Booker Prize winning Nigerian-British poet and novelist, Ben Okri, the author of modern classics, including The Famished Road and Astonishing the Gods, will be one of the headline authors for May’s Bath Literature Festival. Also joining the ine-up is Susie Dent, etymologist and lexicographer, best known fas the adjudicator of the letters round in Channel 4’s Countdown series. She will be talking about her debut thriller, Guilty by Definition. Fresh from reality show I’m A Celebrity polymath is the Rev Richard Coles, the Church of England priest who has also written a series of cosy mystery books, beginning with Murder Before Evensong, which went straight to No 1 in the Sunday Times bestsellers list.

Bath Literature Festival will run in tandem with Bath Music Festival over nine days, from Saturday 17 May to Sunday 25 May 2025, run by Bath Festivals arts charity.

Tickets for these three events are now on general release.

OUR DECEMBER ISSUE - OUT NOW!

Keep an eye out for our fabulous December issue 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've found every opportunity to celebrate the season in style – we've interviewed Father Christmas, an elf and a gnome, and we've got a portrait of Bath favourite Jon Monie as he prepares to play Lester the Jester in the panto. We've also investigated Christmas films, both classic and recently released, and have asked some local experts for their opinions. There is a fascinating feature on the thriving poetry scene in Bath and an interview with Jenni Jackson, the director of a new adaptation of Robin Hood at The Egg. We also meet the top antiques specialists in Bath and get an insight into their specialist markets. 

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

Crab Macaroni Cheese

A little pot of fresh crab meat (readily available in big supermarkets) added to an erstwhile humdrum macaroni cheese brings a touch of time-of-the-year luxury to a classic dish without breaking the bank.

Ingredients (serves 4)
200g macaroni
20g unsalted butter
2 shallots, peeled and finely chopped
50g fennel, finely sliced
A handful of parsley, leaves and stalks, separated and finely chopped
½ tsp red chilli flakes
The juice and zest of half a lemon
1 tbsp flour
2 tbsp brandy
300ml full fat milk
50g Cheddar cheese, grated
50g Gruyere cheese, grated, plus extra for the topping
250g mixed brown and white crab meat
Fresh nutmeg
A handful of fresh dill, finely chopped
A handful of white breadcrumbs

Method
Preheat the oven to 180ºC/gas mark 4 and cook the macaroni according to the instructions on the packet minus 2 minutes of the recommended cooking time. Drain, rinse under very cold water and set to one side.

In a large saucepan over a medium heat, melt the butter with around ½ tbsp olive oil. Add the shallots, fennel, parsley stalks, red chilli flakes, lemon zest and a pinch of salt and sauté gently for around 5 minutes or until soft and fragrant but not brown.

Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, then add the brandy and continue stirring to create a thickish, paste-like roux. Add the milk and cook for another 10 minutes, stirring with a whisk until the sauce is thick and lump-free.

Take the pan off the heat, add the cheeses and a good grating of fresh nutmeg and keep stirring until the cheese has melted. Transfer the sauce to a large bowl and add the crab meat, lemon juice, chopped dill, parsley leaves and macaroni. Stir gently to combine, season to taste and plop the mixture into a lightly greased, oven-proof dish. Mix a handful of grated Gruyere with the breadcrumbs, sprinkle over the top and bake for 30 minutes or until golden and bubbling on top.

Remove from the oven and allow to settle down for 10 minutes before serving accompanied by a well-dressed green salad.

Party Season Mixed Case at The Great Wine Co.

A six bottle mixed case featuring wines designed for a party. Friends come around unannounced, family descend, no problem with these festive wines. 

• Les Mougeottes White Blend
  IGP Pays d'Oc 2023
• Free-Run Steen Chenin Blanc
  MAN Family Wines 2024
• Era Organic Grillo
  Cantine Volpi 2023
• Nerello Mascalese IGT Terre Siciliane
  Molino a Vento 2023
• Cuma Organic Winemakers Malbec
  El Esteco 2023
• Les Mougeottes Pinot Noir, IGP Pays d'Oc
  IGP Pays d'Oc 2023

Great Wine Co | £60

Click here to buy now at The Great Wine Co.

Please note that the Great Wine Co warehouse is open and operating as usual. Relocation within the Bath area planned for 2025. 

The Hideout
Hot Toddy

With Christmas around the corner, we’re quickly approaching Hot Toddy season – so here’s some inside info on how it's made at The Hideout. A nice helping of hearty whisky makes their Hot Toddy perfect for cold weather. They also like to throw in a little lemon juice for citrus zing.

Ingredients (makes 1)
•30ml Bruichladdich Classic Laddie whisky (or your favourite)
• 10ml lemon juice
• 3 dashes Angostura Bitters
• Fig & honey syrup to taste (made with 2 parts honey to 1 part fig liqueur)
• 1 dash saline solution (6 parts water to 1 part salt)

Method
Add all your ingredients to a heat proof glass or mug, top up with hot water, throw a slice of lemon in and enjoy!

Mixed by The Hideout,
1 Lilliput Court, Bath BA1 1ND
hideoutbath.co.uk

Christmas bites from Basil's Bakery

Get in the festive spirit with delicious holiday treats from Basil's Bakery! Some highlights include their Christmas sourdough, Christmas cake and Christmas sandwich. 

Treat yourself or share the love with a gift voucher. Click here to learn more.

basilsbakery.co.uk
Locksbrook works, unit 1 Locksbrook Rd, Bath BA1 3EN

Lasso the Moon with Patek Philippe: A Closer Look at the Annual Calendar Ref. 5396G-017

For centuries, the phases of the moon have influenced human activity, from agriculture to timekeeping. The lunar cycle — lasting approximately 29.5 days — has been tracked through instruments ranging from sundials to modern wristwatches. In horology, the moon phase complication remains one of the most visually captivating and technically challenging features. Patek Philippe, a pioneer in fine watchmaking, continues to honour this tradition with the release of the Annual Calendar Ref. 5396G-017.

A Legacy of Lunar Complications
Timekeeping has always been linked to celestial movements, from the tracking of the sun with sundials to the development of mechanical clocks. As horology evolved, watchmakers sought to bring astronomical indicators, such as the lunar cycle, into pocket watches and, eventually, wristwatches. One of the most renowned names in watchmaking, Patek Philippe, has been at the forefront of this tradition.

In 1925, Patek Philippe introduced the world’s first perpetual calendar wristwatch, Reference 97975, which featured a moon phase display. This complication, which tracks the moon’s 29.5-day cycle, continues to be a hallmark of Patek Philippe’s most sought-after timepieces. This year’s release of the reinterpreted Annual Calendar 5396G is a prime example of this enduring fascination.

Design & Features
The new 5396G-017 features a 38.5mm 18 carat white gold case, paired with a sunburst blue dial framed by a black-gradient rim. Baguette-cut diamond hour markers offer subtle luxury, while a navy-blue alligator leather strap with a white gold fold-over clasp completes the refined aesthetic. A sapphire crystal case back reveals the watch’s finely finished movement.

Horological Excellence
Powered by the self-winding calibre 26‑330 S QA LU 24H/441, this watch incorporates an annual calendar that automatically adjusts for months with 30 or 31 days, requiring manual correction only in February. The day, month, and date are displayed clearly alongside a 24-hour subdial and an elegant moon phase indicator.

A Modern Classic
The 5396G-017 exemplifies Patek Philippe’s commitment to craftsmanship and timeless design. With its elegant aesthetics and advanced complications, it remains a coveted choice.


For more details, visit Mallory Jewellers.

The Ski Goggles 02 by Jimmy Fairly

Ski goggles supplied with 2 interchangeable polarized lenses. One suitable for sunny or partly cloudy days, the other suitable for low light conditions. Equipped with magnetic fastening for easy swapping of lenses. Pouch bag and hard case are included.

Jimmy Fairly | £135
Click here to buy now or explore

Dents International Collection

Dents of England has handmade the world's finest leather gloves since 1777

Today, the best traditions of this time-honoured craft are combined with contemporary design and luxury leather in stylish accessories. 

Heritage bold-check cashmere scarf with tassels in blue | £59.99
Men's Abraham Moon-check tweed newsboy cap in blue | £49
Men's three-point cashmere-lined leather gloves in navy | £76
Heritage plaid-check cashmere scarf with tassels in cherry | £59.99
Women's single-point lined leather gloves in hot pink | £49

Click here to see the full range from Dents.

La Pavoni Stainless steel, Expo edition Lever Coffee Machine

Recently acquired by the Smeg group, La Pavoni is a brand that will always be recognised as true Italian excellence in the production of coffee machines, producing the very best Italian espresso.

This elegant domestic lever machine has been designed and developed for coffee specialists who are passionate about espresso.

Create creamy espresso coffees and foamy cappuccinos. The Expo edition-machine was specially designed for the 2015 International Expo in Milan using the highest quality precious materials that are particularly robust and will stand the test of time. Accessories include; Steam wand, Cappuccino automatic, Standard portafilter, Fascino portafilter, 3 filters (single, double and competition), coffee scoop and tamper. £1,099.95

To see this plus many more coffee machines and small appliances, visit Coopers Home Appliances, 13/15 Walcot Street, Bath

DuoBoots winter collection

The winter collection spotlights the brand’s classic silhouettes and renowned size-inclusive craftsmanship. The collection, in a neutral colour palette of blacks, chocolate browns and rich burgundies, is contrasted with accents of bold red, and enveloped in a variety of materials, from smooth and croc-print calf leather to soft suede. 

The equestrian inspiration of Haltham, Verity and Charlotte, combined with the urban aesthetic of Freya and Tabitha, make each boot an essential accessory for country escapes and festive nights alike.

Haltham Standard Knee High Boots | £250
Verity Knee High Boots | £225
Charlotte Knee High Boots | £250
Tabitha Knee High Boots | £295
Freya Knee High Boots | £295

Click here to explore the full DuoBoots range.

Sol de Janeiro Delicia Drench Jet Set exclusive to Space NK

Moisturise, nourish and scent skin with the Sol de Janeiro Delicia Drench Jet Set, a bath and body set that includes body butter, shower oil and a perfume spray in travel-friendly sizes. This set includes Delicia Drench Body Butter, Delicia Drench Shower Oil and Cheirosa ’59.

Delicia Drench Body Butter and Shower Oil both work to revive the skin barrier and support the microbiome, while providing skin with hydration and nourishment. Scented with the Cheirosa ’59 fragrance, this entire set has notes of velvet plum, sugared violet, vanilla orchid and sheer sandalwood.

Space NK | £30

Click here to buy now or visit 10 New Bond St Pl, Bath BA1 1BE

Curated by Daniel McCabe

The latest issue of The Raw Society Magazine is the most impressive outing yet for this non-profit and now awarding-winning project showcasing work from its members and the wider storytelling community. It explores social issues, politics, culture, travel and history, with the value of photographic medium in all of these things at the very forefront and shot throughout with a sense of personal or social investment. We’re bombarded daily with images from advertising and social media that have become for the most part meaningless, so the work of connecting, or reconnecting the story to the image is to be praised. So hail to this outstanding documentary photography magazine, published in Spain and thoughtfully designed here in Bath by Robert Shaw Design. | £29.99

magalleria.co.uk

Sandra Higgins Art Project at The Empire

The beautiful and newly redecorated shared space of the Empire hallway is being enhanced by a changing selection of artwork for all residents and invited guests to enjoy. This collaboration between The Empire and local art curator Sandra Higgins will feature the work of artists Lynn Baxter, Brian Baxter, Louisa Burnett-Hall, Belinda Crozier, Sammy Dent, Maxine Foster, Fiona McIntyre, Ruth Piper and Mary Romer. Works will include abstract paintings, figurative landscapes, prints, watercolours and collage/mixed media. Many of the artists are featured in the online gallery at sandrahiggins.art.

Viewing is by appointment only by contacting Sandra Higgins at sandra@sandrahiggins.com

The Empire, Grand Parade, Bath

Clockwise, from top left: artwork by Sammy Dent, Fiona McIntyre, Ruth Piper and Maxine Foster

Holburne Maker's Market, today 5-9pm
Free admission

Come to the Holburne this evening for a festive evening to pick up thoughtful gifts from a range of local artists and makers, away from the hubbub of the city centre. With a programme of live music, and festive food and drink stalls, it promises to be a special evening to get you into the Christmas spirit!

28 stalls will spread throughout the Museum’s galleries, offering a range of gifts for all the family. Following an open call, the Holburne team selected a range of local artists and makers which represent the region’s amazing creativity. Stalls will include unique prints and cards, handmade jewellery, ceramic tableware, stylish homeware, children’s toys and Christmas decorations.

holburne.org
Holburne Museum, Bath, BA2 4DB

Christmas time at the American Museum & Gardens

Visit the American Museum & Gardens for a beautiful winter day out this Christmas time, with so much to see and do across the site!

Creative activities are available to enjoy all weekend. Christmas storytelling performances with artist Michael Loader are on the 15 and 22 December at 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm. Michael will be performing a number of stories, including ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas!

Click here to learn more about Christmas at the American Museum.

American Museum & Garden, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD

Christmas Carols in The Circus, tonight, 7pm

” Always on Christmas night there was music…One, two, three, and we began to sing, our voices high and seemingly distant in the snow-felted darkness round the house that was occupied by nobody we knew. We stood close together, near the dark door. ” -Dylan Thomas

Join in a festive evening of carolling at The Circus with the Salvation Army providing music. There will be a charity collection at the event, with all profits going to the Salvation Army Fund.

With so much always happening near Christmas, get the date in your calendars now! Everyone is invited to enjoy the Christmas magic of The Circus. Can’t promise snow, but maybe…just maybe?

carabath.com

Purchase your copy of the superb A/W edition of Postcard from Bath

Produced every 6 months by the team at The Bath Magazine – the Autumn/Winter 24/25 edition of Postcard from Bath is now available to buy.

The ultimate, luxury guide to the city, Postcard contains the very best things to see and do in Bath, alongside editorial pieces on the city's fascinating history, architecture, culture, and so much more.

If you'd like to buy a copy for your coffee table as a keepsake  or even send someone you love a Postcard from Bath – head over to postcardmagazine.co.uk 

The price is just £10 and includes postage to any UK mainland address.

Ashwicke, The Rocks, SN14

Offered for sale by Camella estate agents in Bath.

Winsome Cottage is a charming Grade II listed property set in the idyllic hamlet of The Rocks, Ashwicke, surrounded by woodland and open farmland on the Southern edge of the Cotswolds.

The well-maintained garden boasts a lush lawn, flourishing vegetable patches, and a charming patio perfect for outdoor seating. Additionally, a versatile outbuilding currently used for storage with potential to be adapted for use as a home office.

The property is move-in ready, though it would benefit from modernisation. Winsome Cottage offers the perfect opportunity for those looking to create their dream family home or embark on a rewarding renovation project.
Offers in excess of£800,000.

To see more images and read through the details click here to see Winsome Cottage on the Camella website.