A specially curated guide to help you enjoy the next 48 hours (or more) in Bath
|
|
|
|
CHARITY | "HOPE IS EVERYTHING"
|
|
|
|
Mental health charity CALM donate a bench to Bath's Sydney Gardens |
|
Following the release of Netflix's After Life (Season Three), series creator Ricky Gervais has teamed up with suicide prevention charity CALM to donate benches to local councils across the UK. Sydney Gardens in Bath will receive one of the twenty five being given out.
Each bench will have the phrase "hope is everything" (a quote from the third series of After Life) engraved onto it. CALM hope that the benches will provide people with a place to sit and talk about anything which may be weighing on their mind.
You can find out more on the CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) website: thecalmzone.net/afterlife
Image credit: Netflix
|
|
|
|
|
|
OUR JANUARY ISSUE – CURRENTLY BEING ENJOYED |
|
As always, this month's issue has a collection of great reading by our team of wonderful writers as well as beautifully presented advertising by Bath's best businesses. We hope you'll enjoy the read!
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 [Green Park], M&S Foods in Twerton, Tesco in Weston Village, and at The Holburne Museum.
Read the digital version here.
|
|
|
|
|
|
And if you would like to have a copy sent in the post every month, then we offer a postal subscription for just £30 for 12 issues, £15 for six issues or buy a copy for just £3.95. UK mainland prices. For Euro and World zone subscription prices – see our website.
|
|
|
|
WEEKEND RECIPE | BURNS NIGHT
|
|
|
|
By Melissa Blease |
|
Cullen Skink |
|
|
|
Luxurious, super-tasty and supremely comforting, Cullen Skink (named after the town of Cullen in Moray, Aberdeenshire, where the recipe originated) is second only to Haggis on Scotland's Greatest Dish charts, perfect to serve as a start to your Burns Night feast... or indeed, as the main event.
|
|
|
|
Ingredients (serves 4)
1 tbsp unsalted butter 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped 1 medium leek, finely chopped 400g medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into 1cm cubes 250g undyed smoked haddock 1 bay leaf 12 black peppercorns 250ml whole milk
To serve: single cream; fresh parsley and/or chives, finely chopped
Method
1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over a medium heat, then add the onion and the leek and sauté for 5-8 mins until translucent but not browned. Add the potatoes and 300ml water and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat slightly and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are soft but not mushy and take the pan off the heat (without draining).
2. Meanwhile, put the haddock in another pan and cover with the the milk. Add the peppercorns and the bay leaf, bring to a gentle simmer and cook gently for 5 mins, or until the haddock is just tender. Remove the haddock from the milk with a slotted spoon (reserving the milk), transfer to a plate and leave to cool enough to handle before removing the skin and flaking into large pieces, removing any bones.
3. Strain the reserved haddock liqueur to remove the bay leaf and peppercorns and add the milky juice to the potato pan. Bring back to simmering point, add the flaked haddock and cook until the fish has reheated through. Season with white pepper (you probably won't need any salt as smoked haddock is quite salty) and serve in warm bowls drizzled with single cream and sprinkled with the fresh herbs.
|
|
|
|
FOUR OF A KIND | KEEPING IT CLASSIC
|
|
|
|
Words by Melissa Blease |
|
4 Classic Scottish dishes |
|
|
|
To accompany your Haggis, perhaps?
|
|
|
|
Warm Potato Pancakes with Scottish Smoked Salmon (serves 4, as a starter)
Peel and chop 225g floury potatoes (eg. Maris Piper). Place in a large pan of cold salted water, bring to the boil then simmer for 10-15 minutes or until tender. Drain well before mashing with 75ml milk and plenty of seasoning and putting to one side to cool. In a small bowl, combine 50ml crème fraîche with 1 tbsp creamed horseradish and a squirt of fresh lemon juice, and set to one side. Beat 2 egg yolks and 1tbsp buttermilk together, mix with the cooled mashed potato and fold 50g plain flour into the mix. In a separate bowl, whisk 2 egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the potato mix to create a batter. Heat a little oil in a frying pan over a medium heat, add 3-4 heaped tbsp batter and fry for around 2 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface. Flip and fry for 1-2 minutes more until just golden; repeat until all the batter is used up (you're aiming for 12 pancakes in total). Serve 3 warm pancakes per person, draped with slivers of Scottish smoked salmon, the crème fraîche and horseradish cream and a sprinkling of freshly-chopped chives.
|
|
|
|
Neeps and Tatties (serves 4, as a side dish)
Bring a large pan of salted cold water to the boil. Meanwhile, peel 1 medium-sized swede (approx. 500g in weight) and cut it into 2cm chunks. Add the swede chunks to the boiling water and simmer rapidly for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, peel 500g of potatoes and cut them into 2.5cm chunks. When the 15 minute timer goes off on the swede, add the potatoes, bring back to boiling point and simmer for a further 12-15 minutes, or until both the swede and the potatoes are soft and cooked through. Drain well and leave to steam dry for a couple of minutes before mashing with a good pinch of salt, plenty of white pepper and lots of butter.
|
|
|
|
Scottish Whisky Sauce (delicious with Haggis or Scottish Venison; serves 4)
Heat 2 tsp butter and 2 tsp olive oil in a small pan over a medium heat until the butter starts to foam. Add 2 peeled, finely-chopped shallots and sauté for around 6-8 minutes until soft but not golden. Add 1 bay leaf and 2 cloves of garlic (peeled and minced) and continue to sauté for 1 minute before adding 170ml Scottish whisky to the pan. Bubble the whisky until absorbed by the shallots and almost evaporated (1-3 minutes approx.) Add 200ml beef consommé or beef stock to the pan and simmer for 5-10 mins until reduced by half. Stir in the 200ml double cream and simmer for another 5 mins until thickened to a smooth sauce consistency. Season to taste and add another 70ml Scottish whisky if a stronger whisky flavour is preferred.
|
|
|
|
Classic Cranachan (serves 4)
Toast 3 generous tbsp oatmeal in a dry frying pan, using your sense of smell to tell you when it's 'nutty' enough (probably around 2-4 minutes). Put the toasted oatmeal to one side to cool. Meanwhile, crush and sieve 150g fresh Scottish raspberries and sweeten to taste with a little caster sugar. In a separate bowl, whisk 350ml double cream until just set. Gently fold 2 tbsp Scottish Heather Honey and 2-3 tbsp Scottish whisky into the whipped cream, adding more honey, whisky or both according to taste. Stir in the toasted oatmeal and whisk very lightly until the mixture is just firm. Alternate layers of the creamy mixture with the raspberry purée and smatterings of whole, fresh raspberries across 4 serving dishes (whisky tumblers, perhaps?). Chill to set slightly before serving.
|
|
|
|
Wine tasting event at La Terra, 26 January
Having sold out following an incredible amount of interest in their first wine dinner event, La Terra have announced a second date.
The restaurant will focus on the Trentino region of Mezzacorona in the North of Italy. Mezzacorona lies at the foot of the majestic Italian Dolomites. Its vineyards with pergola trellising, characteristic of the region, run from Lake Garda to the foothills of the towering Dolomites. A fresh and wild breeze blows from over 400 lakes and numerous glaciers of the surrounding mountains, peaking at over 9,000 feet.
Thanks to a spectrum of microclimates, ranging from Mediterranean and Alpine, and profiting from over a century of winemaking experience, Mezzacorona planted varietals in the zones best tailored to the needs of each varietal, allowing them to flaunt the aromas and flavour of their terroir.
Through state-of-the-art facilities and modern winemaking techniques, La Terra will look at classics like Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay, as well as Lagrein and Teroldego Rotaliano Riserva.
The event includes a drink on arrival at 7.30pm, followed by a Four-course dinner created by Alex to match the wines of Trentino. £65 per person.
For information and booking call La Terra on 01225 482070 or email the restaurant on info@laterra.co.uk.
La Terra 2 John Street Bath, BA1 2JL
laterra.co.uk
|
|
|
|
WEEKEND WINE | MANY A MICKLE MAKES A MUCKLE
|
|
|
|
Wines for Burns Night
“If you look after the pennies then the pounds will look after themselves” as they say, and just added to The Great Wine Co’s January sale are several superb wines that won’t break the bank and will pair beautifully with the wholesome traditional feast that honours the great Bard.
Big fruit-laden reds or intense whites all with a higher alcohol measure will cut through the hearty dishes, clear the palette, and add depth and flavour to your celebrations.
Sancerre 'Grandmontains' Rouge – Domaine Laporte This extraordinary glimmering red Sancerre has aromas of ripe red fruit. Further bottle ageing reveals aromas of candied cherries. On the palate, a seductive suppleness and freshness is apparent, as well as the presence of silky tannins. This is a wine of elegance and finesse; a real homage to Pinot Noir in a tender style that is bursting with flavour. £17.77 (was £26) 14% ABV
660 Reserve Chardonnay – McWilliams This gorgeous, high-altitude Chardonnay definitely takes its inspiration from Chablis, with its lean, mouthwatering style. The fine pear fruit is seasoned with hints of toasted sesame and umami. £13.30 (was £15.95) 13% ABV
2014 Stoned Crow Syrah – Squawking Magpie Concentrated, enticing aromas of blackberry and blueberry married to complex herb, black pepper and violet inflections. Medium to full-bodied, with a richness of sweet dark fruit flavours, intertwined with iron-earth minerals, iris and a hint of savoury game. Stoned Crow Syrah has a long succulent finish with a fine line of tannin. £17.77 (was £27.50) 13% ABV
Frankland River Mourvedre Syrah Grenache – Swinney Vineyards Deep garnet with purple hues, dark and inviting with fresh blueberry and satsuma plums, couverture, slight white pepper and coal dust. A plush and velvety structure supports the distinct blueberry fruit aromas. The wine is medium to full-bodied with a rich texture balanced by a savoury, dry and mouth-watering finish. £18.88 (was £29.50) 14% ABV
Finca El Tomillo Chardonnay, Gualtallary – Trapiche A Chardonnay from the high-altitude Gualtallary district of Mendoza's Uco Valley, which is rapidly gaining a reputation for world-class white wines, it is a rich yet refined wine, with lemon, Chinese five spice and chicken broth notes: zesty and a little savoury at the same time. £27.75 (was £33) 13.5% ABV
Cabernet Sauvignon 'La Cancha' – De Martino Fresh aromas of blackcurrants and violets, together with complex notes of tobacco leaf, cedar and graphite. Very enjoyable – and it sounds a bit like Dean Martin… always a good thing. Volare! £17.77 (was £27.50) 13.5% ABV
See these and many more top wines in The Great Wine Co sale.
|
|
|
|
TREAT TIME | INSPIRED AFTERNOON TEA AT ROBUN
|
|
|
|
Afternoon Tea with Sashimi, Bao Buns and so much more
Robun’s unique Japanese inspired Afternoon Tea service brings together elements from their excellent menu and a selection of traditional Japanese teas. A delicious feast and perfect for an elegant afternoon with friends.
Dine on Japanese-inspired delights, with a generous menu that boasts the likes of Akami Sashimi and Chicken Karaage followed by treats such as Black Truffle chocolate torte and Mochi ice cream. There’s plenty of choice to tantalise your taste buds.
Robun, in George Street, is now serving Afternoon Tea every day in the main restaurant. The private dining room on the first floor is also available for larger parties.
Make a reservation by calling 01225 614 424 or visit robun.co.uk for more details
|
|
|
|
Looking for more delicious foodie inspo?
Click through to browse our full Delicious Guide!
|
|
|
|
OBJET D'INTÉRET | POMELLATO'S INSPIRED DESIGNS
|
|
|
|
The Fantina Collection
Top Italian jewellers Pomellato takes its cue for this lovely collection from the equestrian world. Inspired by the strong shapes and sturdiness of saddles, bits and horseshoes, the result is a playful and intriguing look with pieces that are full of character and curves.
Shown here – all in 18 ct rose gold – is a ring that loops around the wearer’s finger, £2,690; a matching bracelet, £6,700; and a pair of earrings to complete the set, £4,900.
See these and many more beautiful pieces by Pomellato at Mallory.
|
|
|
|
FASHION | LET'S BE BRIEF - THEY'RE SUSTAINABLE
|
|
|
|
Stripe & Stare: sustainable underwear
Proving that your underwear drawer can be filled with pieces that are both eco-conscious and covetable, the label's lingerie is crafted from TENCEL Micro Modal sustainably made in Austria and sourced from beechwood trees and doused in an array of eye-catching prints and playful patterns.
Stripe & Stare is available to buy from the Anthropologie website: anthropologie.com
|
|
|
|
La Pausa de CHANEL – Rogue Coco Baume
CHANEL's Spring-Summer 2022 Collection, La Pausa de CHANEL, was inspired by the villa that once belonged to Gabrielle Chanel, located high on the ridge of Roquebrune: La Pausa.
This place, bathed in soft, warm sunlight and existing in perfect harmony with the bountiful natural landscape that surrounds it, provided the vision for for this new collection.
The Rouge Coco Baume's smart formula allows for custom coverage, ranging from a sheer wash of colour after a single coat to lipstick-like intensity after three coats. Available in seven shades. £32 each.
|
|
|
|
ON THE BOX | SPY THRILLER
|
|
|
|
Netflix: The Edge of War
At the tense 1938 Munich Conference, former friends who now work for opposing governments become reluctant spies racing to expose a Nazi secret.
Starring George MacKay, Jannis Niewöhner and Jeremy Irons, Munich – The Edge of War is released on Netflix today (Friday 21 January).
Watch Munich – The Edge of War on Netflix: netflix.com
|
|
|
|
LITTLE THEATRE CINEMA | MOVIE MAGIC
|
|
|
|
Belfast (12 A)
Adapted from memories of growing up in 1960s Ireland, Kenneth Branagh’s heartwarming, crowd-pleasing Belfast follows young Buddy (Jude Hill) and his loving family (Judi Dench, Ciarán Hinds, and more) who find themselves living in a world suddenly turned upside down. But despite the family’s struggles, joy, laughter, music and the formative magic of the movies remain.
Book tickets to see Belfast at The Little Theatre Cinema on the Picturehouse website: picturehouses.com
|
|
|
|
New children's book set in Bath released by Norland |
|
As part of its 130th anniversary celebrations, Norland (an educational establishment for childcare training) has launched the Norland Nursery Times Crinkly Newspaper.
The six-page illustrated crinkly cloth book tells the story of a child’s day out in Bath with a Norland Nanny, and is suitable for babies aged three months and above as well as toddlers.
It is available to buy online from the Norland shop: norland.sycal.c.uk
|
|
|
|
|
|
THE MAGAZINE KIOSK | WHY WE LOVE PRINT
|
|
|
|
Curated by Daniel McCabe
Sociotype is a plush new journal from design studio and type foundry Socio which reworks the traditional type specimen into a platform for thinking around issues in the arts, culture and society. It’s neatly created using the studio's own fonts, ‘Rework’ and ‘Gestura’, as each issue is focused on a single theme – and here it’s 'The Gesture’. This is a look at gestures of power and political influence, sign language poetry, the secret codes of the illuminati, street gangs and flight attendants, NASA’s gestural VR programme, the raised fist and more. Who said typography was boring?
|
|
|
|
MUSIC | UPCOMING EVENT AT CHAPEL ARTS CENTRE
|
|
|
|
The Tom Petty Legacy, 29 January
Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers tribute
A full two hour show that captures the energy and excitement of a Tom Petty show
Advance tickets £16, on the door £18
Click here to buy tickets
|
|
|
|
CONCERT | AN ORCHESTRAL LANDSCAPE
|
|
|
|
Hyeyoon Park and the Bath Philharmonia, 27 January
A whirlwind journey across a magical orchestral landscape strewn with memorable melodies, passionate harmonies and phantasmagorical textures. Bath Philharmonia performs an array of hypnotic tunes and textures, sometimes sensual and sometimes spine-tingling including Saint–Saëns’ Dance Macabre and excerpts from Bizet’s Carmen Suites.
Book your tickets here
|
|
|
|
|
|
IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE | THE ANTI-VALENTINE
|
|
|
|
Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein presents its 'Nightmare Dates' |
|
For a Valentine’s event to get your heart racing, Bath’s newest attraction Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein becomes "Mary Shelley’s House of Valentines" for four nights only from the 11 – 14 February, as it presents immersive 'Nightmare Dates’.
With Bath considered one of the most romantic cities in the UK, this is the perfect anti-Valentine’s event for friends or those who don’t fancy a romantic dinner for two! Instead, re-live “monstrous” dates with these theatrical comedy horror nights.
This Valentine's, you can expect:
- 4 multi-sensory floors by candlelight
- Immersive theatrical performances
- The Terror Vaults (the infamous terrifying basement gets a dark-dungeon twist...)
- Bloody Mary’s Bar (romantic hideaway or place of refuge?)
- Victor’s Lair (of love) Escape Room
Tickets are £12.50 if booking online (saving 10%), and can be found via the button below.
Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein can be found at 37 Gay Street, Bath, Somerset BA1 2NT. Visit the website to find out more: houseoffrankenstein.com
|
|
|
|
|
|
LOOKING BACK | MARVELLOUS MOTORS
|
|
|
|
By Andrew Swift |
|
The Golden Age of Motoring |
|
This photograph dates from around the time of the First World War, when parking in Bath was not an issue. The car is a Swift, made in Coventry, and would have cost in the region of £325. The location is the Circus, little changed today apart from the removal of the railings that enclosed the central area and the absence of any other vehicles. The trees in the centre were over a hundred years younger as well.
akemanpress.com
|
|
|
|
|
|
PETITION | CLIMATE CHANGE
|
|
|
|
Greenpeace petition: help save bees from deadly pesticides |
|
Bees are essential for our survival. They pollinate much of what we eat and play a critical role in sustaining ecosystems around the world. But the last decade has been devastating for insect populations, and bees have been hit hard - with populations shrinking by a third in the UK.
Bee-killing neonicotinoids have been banned across Europe since 2013, but the UK government has just approved these deadly chemicals for emergency use, posing a lethal threat to bee populations.
Every petition signature helps put pressure on the Environment Secretary to act.
|
|
|
|
|
|
A NEW NAME | COMPETITION WINNER
|
|
|
|
Dyson Cancer Centre announce the winner of 'Name the Crane' competition |
|
Following a close run public vote, the tower crane helping to build the Dyson Cancer Centre at the Royal United Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (RUH) finally has a name – Crane Austen.
Libby Walters, Director of Finance and Senior Responsible Officer for the project, said: "You really can’t miss the crane at the front of the RUH, it’s become a bit of a landmark already. It will be with us for a while, so we asked people to help find a suitable name. We had an amazing response with so many patients, staff and members of the public suggesting creative, amusing and imaginative names – thank you to everyone who got involved."
Nicola Cretney from Frome came up with the ultimate winning suggestion, explaining: "When I saw the RUH was asking for names, 'Crane Austen' popped into my head without me giving it any real thought. I love Jane Austen novels and know she has a strong connection with Bath and I liked the play on words!"
Scheduled to open for patients in autumn 2023, the Dyson Cancer Centre will include oncology, chemotherapy, radiology and research services as well as a 22-bed inpatient ward and a specially designed Macmillan Wellbeing Hub.
You can follow the latest developments on the Royal United Hospitals NHS website: ruh.nhs.uk
|
|
|
|
|
|
Graham & Green enter charitable partnership with Jamie's Farm |
|
Local business Graham & Green have chosen a new charity partner, who they will support for the next three years.
Jamie Feilden's farm acts as a catalyst for change, enabling vulnerable young people to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
Each day, 42 children are excluded from school. Not only does this impact their engagement with education, but their mental well-being and future prospects.
Jamie's Farm was set up in 2005 by Jamie Feilden and his mother with the vision of making vulnerable young people better equipped to thrive during secondary school years and beyond.
The programme is designed to improve behaviour, self-esteem and confidence in their ability to achieve. Combining farming, family and therapy, the team have helped more than 9,500 children find a renewed sense of purpose and happiness when all the other odds were stacked against them.
Family-founded at their HQ just outside of Bath, Jamie's Farm is an inspiring charity that Graham & Green are proud to work with. Graham & Green will be found volunteering on-site as a team, joining fundraising efforts, and offering a monthly donation for the next three years, in which time Jamie's Farm hopes to support over 6,000 children.
You can find out more, and make a donation, on the Graham and Green website: grahamandgreen.co.uk.
You can also visit the Jamie's Farm website here: jamiesfarm.org
|
|
|
|
|
|
RUGBY | BATH RUGBY V LEINSTER RUGBY
|
|
|
|
Cordwell to earn European debut for Bath Rugby against Leinster |
|
22 January, The Rec, 1pm kick off
Arthur Cordwell will earn his first European start when Bath Rugby host Leinster in Round 4 of the Heineken Champions Cup on Saturday (13:00 kick-off).
The Academy graduate, who debuted in the tournament against the Irish province in Round 1, takes the one jersey for seventh appearance in Blue, Black and White.
Starting the other side of the front row, England international Will Stuart returns from the head knock which forced him to miss the trip to France while Jacques du Toit, who showed the pace of a wing in the lead up to Joe Simpson’s try against Stade Rochelais, is promoted to the number two jersey.
Will Spencer also played a key part in the same score, showing his strength to steal possession in a maul and send du Toit on his way. He starts at lock for the first time this season alongside captain Charlie Ewels.
Like Stuart and Ewels, Orlando Bailey received a Six Nations call-up by Eddie Jones in the week. The Academy fly-half is back in the XV ahead of England’s training camp in Brighton which begins on Monday.
Taking his place at 10 at Stade Marcel Deflandre, Cameron Redpath moves to his familiar inside centre position as he prepares for his first match in front of supporters at the Rec.
Elsewhere, Tom Prydie starts on the wing for the second home match in a row while Ruaridh McConnochie continues at full-back following his fourth try in 10 Champions Cup outings.
Gabriel Hamer-Webb, Max Clark and Sam Underhill are new additions to the starting line-up with Ben Spencer, Tom Ellis and Scotland international Josh Bayliss retaining their spots.
For updates keep an eye on Bath Rugby's social media feeds.
|
|
|
|
|
|
INTERIORS | WAXING LYRICAL
|
|
|
|
Roman Bust Candle from Anthropologie
Inviting a touch of classicism into your space, this moulded candle takes cues from the Roman busts of yesteryear complete with artfully draped robes and timeless updo. Don't be surprised if you can never quite bring yourself to light it up. £34
Click here to shop the candle at Anthropologie
|
|
|
|
|
|
PROPERTY | A PRETTY TOP FLOOR APARTMENT
|
|
|
|
Top Floor Flat, 15 Belmont, Bath |
|
On sale with Bath estate agents Cobb Farr
15 Belmont is an elegant Grade II listed Georgian town house having been sympathetically converted into 4 lovely apartments. The 2/3 bedroom top floor apartment has a lovely east/west aspect and enjoys beautiful views to the rear towards Solsbury Hill.
The property has recently been refurbished and includes a well-appointed compact kitchen and a modern bath and shower room.
The property is approached via elegant communal entrance halls which are shortly due to be re-decorated and entered at 2nd floor level where a carpeted staircase rises to the top floor.
To the rear there is an attractive light and airy sitting room with 3 sash windows, which is conveniently linked to the internal kitchen. A feature spiral staircase rises to a charming mezzanine level which could be used as a further sitting room, study or occasional bedroom.
To the front there are 2 further bedrooms, both with plenty of built-in storage and a lovely bath and shower room. Offers in excess of £400,000.
For more images, information and to arrange a viewing, click here to see the property on the Cobb Farr website.
cobbfarr.com
|
|
|
|
|
|
Popular on our website this week: |
|
|
|
|