Bath sizzles this summer!

Bath gears up for a summer of fun with a packed programme of events, festivals and new activities. For a round-up of the best things happening over the summer months in and around the city for all the family, along with food and drink experiences and hotel news check out visitbath.co.uk.

Click here for special offers, events news and much more!

Scroll down for information on the Wylde Creatures of Bath Trail! 

OUR JULY ISSUE IS OUT NOW! PICK UP YOUR COPY AND ENJOY!

You'll love our marvellous July 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 local costume designer and puppeteer Hannah Southfield about giving human life to inanimate objects – and look forward to the Bath Carnival this month, for which Hannah is creative director. We also discover why busy is the very best adjective for the honey bee, and how these pollinators support our ecosystem. You'll also find some of the production highlights of the Garden Theatre Festival in the grounds of the Holburne – with deckchairs provided! The artichoke on the cover hails our new Delicious Guide, our directory of local food and drink outlets. Plus so much more!

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

Summer Rice Salad

Remember when rice salad used to be soggy and boring? Not any more!

This recipe works well with pretty much any and all seasonal vegetables you happen to have lying round in the bottom of the fridge – think, asparagus, peas, tenderstem broccoli, mangetout and/or courgettes. The soft summer herbs, meanwhile (parsley, coriander, tarragon, mint?) add further vibrancy to this versatile dish, while the sumac – a complex, earthy spice blend, popular in many Middle Eastern dishes – adds a subtly tart/sweet/floral edge to the whole, glorious affair. If you haven't got sumac to hand, try cumin powder, dried coriander or smoked paprika instead.

Ingredients (serves 4)

300g mixed seasonal vegetables (see above), diced or neatly sliced
1 scant tsp sumac
250g cooked rice (brown, white, wild or a mixture of your choice)
80g sun-dried tomatoes in oil (chopped) plus 3 tbsp of the oil from the jar
2 spring onions, finely-sliced
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed
4 tbsp chopped mixed fresh herbs (see above)

To serve (optional): 30g salted almonds, roughly chopped

Method

Bring a pan of salted water to the boil. Add the vegetables and lightly simmer for around 3 minutes or until just cooked but still retaining a bit of bite. Drain and immediately plunge into cold water to retain their green colour. Drain again, then transfer to a large bowl and sprinkle with the sumac. Add the cooked rice, sun-dried tomatoes and spring onions and stir well to thoroughly combine.

In a small bowl or jug, lightly whisk the sun-dried tomato oil with the vinegar and garlic, then stir in the chopped herbs. Season to taste then pour 2/3 of the dressing into the rice salad and mix well.

Serve in the bowl or turned out onto a serving platter drizzled with the remaining dressing and scattered with the chopped almonds, if using.

Spanish white wines at The Great Wine Co.

Spain has the greatest area under vine of any wine producing country. Due to its arid climate and low rainfall, the land simply cannot support such a concentrated volume of trellised vines as you might find in a country like France. Spain's vineyards are therefore dotted with low-lying, ancient bush vines better adapted to compete for the scarce resources. The diversity of wine styles is immense.

Quintaluna Verdejo, Ossian Vides Y Vinos | £16.65

This marvellous wine has a beautiful fragrance of golden apples, quince and a suggestion of pine woods. It's rounded and creamy in texture, with lovely freshness and balance. A far cry from the homogenous vineyards of northern Rueda, an hour to the south in Nieva, there is a varied landscape of pine forests and massive slate boulders, interspersed with ancient vineyards planted on pure sand. 60% of the fruit that goes into Quintaluna comes from ungrafted vines, including some planted in the 19th Century (the sandy soil protects the vines from the Phylloxera louse, meaning that they can survive without having to be grafted). The vine age results in an intensity and complexity that is extremely rare in wines made with the Verdejo grape.

Albariño Alba Martín, Bodegas Martin Codax | £14.40

Intense yet elegant aromas of white peach and blossom. The vineyards' proximity to the sea gives the wine freshness and saltiness, and the granite soils enhance its natural minerality. Rounded and full-bodied, with a light petillance that adds to its vivacious sense of freshness. It has impressive persistence on the finish.

Txakolina, Adur | £14.40

Wonderfully intense and elegant on the nose with white fruit, pear, fresh herbs and citrus notes. The palate is bracingly fresh with poise and tension, a notably saline character and a long, complex finish. Sourced from 3 hectares of vines in Getaria, the yields are carefully controlled in order extract maximum intensity of aromas from the Hondarribi Zuri grape. Fermentation takes place in French barrel all from the first press at a temperature of 12 ºC. 10% of the wine then undergoes malolactic to slightly reduce the acidity and provide more weight and balance on the palate. The Txakoli is then left in contact with the lees for 6 months to add volume and texture.

Godello 'Mara Martin,' Terras do Cigarrón, Bodegas Martin Codax | £13.75

Fantastically pure and precise, with delicate peach, greengage and pink grapefruit aromas, which are reflected on the superbly-refreshing palate. The balance is impeccable, with the ripe fruit offset by a hint (but not too much) of sophisticated, citrus pith bitterness and tangy (but not sharp) acidity. Very fine.

Visit greatwine.co.uk to explore more

Hudson Steakhouse
Early evening special

Ideal for a quick dinner or a relaxed evening. Tuesday- Thursday, 5pm-7pm

Hudson Steakhouse has been serving the people of Bath the best steaks for over a decade, offering its diners prime dry-aged steaks, starters with a fusion influence and classic dishes. They have consistently won best-restaurant awards locally and nationally. Cocktails, premium beers and world wines are served under sparkling chandeliers and the upstairs grill room has an open kitchen which looks out over Hedgemead Park.

Early evening special: 8oz prime sirloin steak with french fries, béarnaise sauce, and a glass of house wine for £25.

Hudson Steakhouse, ​14 London Street, ​Bath, ​BA1 5BU
hudsonsteakhouse.co.uk

Discover Robun's New Teishoku Menu!

Robun, Bath’s favourite Japanese restaurant, introduces their Teishoku menu.

For just £21.50, enjoy a delightful assortment of their best dishes, perfect for those who crave variety in every bite.

Savour sushi rolls, refreshing Miso soup, and your choice of Tempura Chicken, Tempura Prawn, or Vegetable Gyoza. Add a house cocktail for £6 to complete your meal.

Book now at robun.co.uk 
4 George Street, BA1 2ED Bath

Mikimoto - The most beautiful pearls

In 1893, Japanese entrepreneur Kokichi Mikimoto successfully created the world's first cultured pearls. His obsessive love for these precious organic gems has become known world over as Mikimoto: the Japanese jewellery house associated with cultivating the finest quality cultured Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian and pearls and turning them into sophisticated and iconic pieces of beautiful jewellery. Highly sought-after, a Mikimoto creation is a pleasure to wear and a timeless statement of elegance.  Shown below (left) is the Mikimoto Morning Dew drop earrings in 18ct white gold with a black South Sea cultured pearl and Akoya cultured pearl. Grade A+ pearls, sized 7-9mm. £4,600Below right. A Mikimoto pearl chain in 18ct white gold Akoya cultured pearl and diamond Bracelet, featuring grade A+ pearls (5.5mm - 6.5mm) and a total diamond weight of 0.15ct. £1,900

Click here to find out more and view the collection at Mallory

Summer 2024 Limited editiion collection- Jardin imaginaire
STYLO YEUX OMBRE ET CONTOUR

With its medium-thick tip, STYLO OMBRE ET CONTOUR may be used as a kohl, liner or eyeshadow. In a few strokes, this 3-in-1 pen enhances your eyes according to your desire.
Its creamy, silky texture glides along the skin and eye contour for easy, intuitive application with a soft touch. The long-lasting STYLO OMBRE ET CONTOUR keeps its colour intensity throughout the day. Check out the 7 new limited edition shades.

Chanel | £34
Click here to purchase now on the Chanel website, releasing worldwide 15 July

TOMMY X MERCEDES F1 X CR RUGBY CARDIGAN

Want to be twinning with Grand Prix winner George Russell?

Button up this pure cotton cardigan for a bold look with its chunky cable-knit panels and timeless rugby stripe pattern.

The collaboration sees emerging designer Ruth sharing his interpretation of Tommy Hilfiger’s’ signature prep with the bold innovation of the Mercedes-AMG F1 Team.

Credits: Tommy Hilfiger - photographed by Micaiah Carter

Tommy Hilfiger | £300

Click here to shop.

Curated by Daniel McCabe

‘Drink, Travel and Adventure’ mag TONIC talks terroir, and not just wine. Outings in this sixth issue take us to Rwanda in search of banana beer, to the Isle of Islay to explore the character of its whiskies, to the Venetian cocktail scene, the ciders of Normandy and last but not least to the iconic pubs of Liverpool. But there’s plenty of wine territory to cover, including a look at Denmark’s credentials as serious wine-producing nation, the evolution of Cambodian wine, the burgeoning Nova Scotian Wine scene and to the Bay of Biscay on a quest for wine hidden beneath the sea.| £15

magalleria.co.uk

Kinds of Kindness (18)

KINDS OF KINDNESS is a triptych fable, following a man without choice who tries to take control of his own life; a policeman who is alarmed that his wife who was missing-at-sea has returned and seems a different person; and a woman determined to find a specific someone with a special ability, who is destined to become a prodigious spiritual leader.

Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos (Poor Things, The Lobster) 
Starring: Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe, Hong Chau, Jesse Plemons, Margaret Qualley, Joe Alwyn, Mamoudou Athie, Hunter Schafer

Little Theatre, St Michaels Place, Bath
Click here for showing times and to book your tickets.

Ticket offer!

She’s Electric is where lifestyle, sustainability and female empowerment come together to create experiences you’ll love, giving you the confidence and knowledge you need to make a positive impact.

Escape for a few hours of guilt-free me time at She's Electric at Bailbrook House Hotel in Bath on Sunday 28th July, and you'll be sure to have a good time in great company. 

• Meet like-minded women
• Hear inspirational speakers
• Enjoy some guilt-free shopping
• Drive the Car of the Year 2024; Renault Scenic E-Tech 100% electric
• Recharge with a complimentary bite to eat
  

One lucky guest will also take home a special collection of goodies from the She’s Electric partners!

Bailbrook Hotel, Eveleigh Ave, London Rd W, Bath BA1 7JD

As a special offer for Bath Magazine readers, the first 20 pairs of tickets are free - just head to the website sheselectric.co.uk and use code BATHMAG.

Garden Grooves
Selected Friday evenings 5.30-9pm

An evening of music and American-inspired food and drink. Choose from an array of light supper and refreshing drinks options at the American Garden Deli. Soak up the stunning views across the Limpley Stoke valley while you enjoy the music. 

There are two ticket options:

• Terrace table tickets, at tables of 4
  If you select these tickets and do not purchase in a group of 4, you may be seated with other guests.
  
• Lawn tickets
  Feel free to bring rugs or fold-out chairs.

Friday 12 July- Jazz evening

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

Click here for more information and to book your tickets.

Go Wylde in Bath

Have you heard? Fab jeweller Nicholas Wylde are sponsoring a city-wide 'Wylde Creatures' trail where you get to hunt down some beautifully painted animals across benches and shops in Bath.

It's great fun for all the family and lots of prizes to be won. All you have to do is discover all of the beautiful animals on the benches near the Abbey and then hunt out its partner in the city. There are 26 animals for you to find! All designs have been created by Miriam Zaccarelli. @mzaccarelli

To enter pick up your very own booklet at the Nicholas Wylde store in Northumberland Place, or any other participating shop. - So if you spot an animal in their window (you've already found one) ... so pop in to get the booklet and get started.
Start looking this weekend - the trail runs until 31st August

nicholaswylde.com  welcometobath.co.uk

An evening with Paul Jones and Fiona Hendley Jones
14 July at 7.30pm

Hear how faith in God has changed the lives of Paul and Fiona – a powerful, humorous and inspiring story in word and song. 
Paul and Fiona travel extensively bringing the Gospel message after they were gloriously saved over 30 years ago. From atheism, fear and rejection into God’s unconditional love, immense peace and extraordinary joy. Their testimony is humorous, but compassionate.

Free, but booking required.

The Forum, 1A Forum Buildings , Bath BA1 1UG
Click here for more information and to book your tickets.

Hinton Charterhouse annual village fête
Saturday 6 July

This year’s theme is “Mad Hatter’s Tea Party,” promising a day filled with whimsical fun and excitement for all ages.

The fete includes a dog show, brass band, various children’s events, stalls and afternoon teas in a rural setting. The evening party includes music by The Clones. Bars and hot food will be available throughout the daytime and evening. All are welcome to this village event which is sponsored by Homewood.

Millennium Green, Hinton Charterhouse
Click here for more information.

Gallery Nine: Summer Exhibition
8 July-30 September

Work by ceramicists Yo Thom and Rachel Peters, artists Louise Young and Howard Phipps, and jewellery by Caroline Reynolds and Elizabeth Chamberlain.
Yo Thom’s wheel-thrown, functional tableware is influenced by Japanese folk textiles and the Dorset landscape. Inspired by Danish design, ceramicist Rachel Peters hand builds her coiled clay vessels. Louise Young presents intricate, contemporary botanical still-life studies. Howard Phipps specialises in wood engraving, a method of relief printmaking. Caroline Reynolds creates sustainable jewellery from precious metals inspired by botanical structures, and Elizabeth Chamberlain uses traditional jewellery techniques to create bespoke pieces informed by ancient relics and the Durham countryside. 

You can also join Gallery Nine on 6 July between 3pm-6pm for the opening of their new Summer Exhibition and enjoy a glass of wine while you browse.

Art; Chesil Boatman by Howard Phipps
Gallery Nine, 9B Margaret's Buildings, Bath
Click here for more information.

GARDEN THEATRE FESTIVAL 2024
10 July to 21 July

Taking place in the magical gardens of the Holburne Museum, expect two weeks of superb performances from nationally renowned companies, in a beautiful, open-air stage space, with something for all of the family to enjoy.

From Shakespeare, to Sherlock & Watson, to Peter Pan, the festival has a wide range of performances.

Adult: £18, Child (under 16): £13, Student: £16, Family (2 adults + 2 children): £47

The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath, BA2 4DB
Click here for more information

Calling all adventurers! Camp Teepee returns for its 8th year

The stunning woodland and grounds of Prior Park College will be the setting for The Paragon School’s Camp Teepee this summer. Think Swallows and Amazons-style adventures, where children aged 6-11 can explore, make dens, learn to light fires safely and cook delicious concoctions (nachos, and apples dipped in caramel sauce are a firm favourite) or brew a hot chocolate to enjoy in the dappled shade. Amble through meadows, play team games with newly found friends, or make maps to lead your chums to buried treasure.

9th – 12th July and 27th – 29th August
£40 per day. 9.30am – 4pm
Book here: paragonschool.co.uk

Bath & County Club

Join the Bath & County Club for some exciting events this month!

Tuesday 9 July at 5.30pm-  A film evening showing “the African Queen” with an interval buffet. Ticket are £25.
Thursday 18 July at 6pm- A Greek supper.
Tuesday 30 July at 6pm- Brexit Talk: An economic prospective with James Siddell. Includes a 2-course supper. 

The Bath & County Club, Queen’s Parade, Bath, BA1 2NJ

For any questions please contact: secretary@bathandcountyclub.com
Tel: 01225 423732

Click here for more information.

Combe Hay, Bath, BA2

Offered for sale by Hamptons estate agents in Bath

Set in the picturesque village of Combe Hay, Stradling House was built four decades ago for the previous owners of neighbouring Combe Hay Manor. It was designed by the famous architect, William Bertram, and positioned in the old rose garden, chosen for its unrivalled position. Bertram used the locally sourced Bath stone and designed the property in the style of a holiday home in Provence. Most distinctively; expansive windows frame verdant views across the valley to create a sense of tranquillity throughout the house.

From the walled garden to the front, double doors open into the hall which link all the rooms facing the view. The central drawing room with its tall unique beamed ceiling and wood burning stove, benefits from a wall of windows taking in that view.

The shaker style kitchen is a superb space also benefitting from a wood burning stove and plenty of room for a central dining table as well as a comfy sofa. The adjacent garden room adds further space for entertaining and with windows opening onto the terrace from both rooms the link between inside and outside is seamless.

The south wing accommodates an additional sitting room with a feature oval window framing the valley plus an additional room to be used how you wish. The opposite wing includes the stunning principal bedroom with the curvature of the wall fitted with floor to ceiling glass. The high A-frame ceiling adds to the well-proportioned room as does its private inner courtyard, dressing area and luxury bathroom. There are three further bedrooms and bathrooms.

Outside, a long gravel drive bordered by woodland leads to a parking area and woodland garden. The front walled garden benefits from a high garden wall covered in trained fruit trees and a top path borders either side leading to a further secret garden.

The house opens to panoramic valley views. The grounds include another lawn bordered by trees and extend seamlessly to neighboring Combe Hay Manor. A stone terrace with sliding glass windows from the sitting room, kitchen, and garden room, along with a pergola and alfresco dining area, enhances the Provencal feel, offering numerous spots to relax allow one to just take in that view. | Guide price: £2,250,000

With more breathtaking images and details - click here to see Stradling House on the Hamptons website.