Les Redwood has deep roots in Bath, from family ties in nearby Dyrham to years spent shaping the city through roles in business, tourism and charity. A proud Widcombe resident, he’s passionate about Bath’s heritage, community spirit and green spaces – and continues to champion its future through his current work at the south west law firm Mogers Drewett.
What’s your Bath connection?
My family are from Dyrham village, just outside Bath – my Dad was christened and married in the village church and is buried there. I went to King Edward’s School in the city and then University in Bournemouth. After this I travelled to more than 60 countries before coming back to Bath to start a family here.
Where do you live?
We live in Widcombe – the best ward in the city! I rented in Widcombe after I left school and can remember the little shops and pubs of the high street feeling like a true community and a stone’s throw from the train station and the city. Plus the canal is at the back of the house here and you can still feel you’re in the country just seconds from your own back door. I remember well Tony starting Manhattan’s takeaway on Widcombe High Street in the late 1980s and he’s still going strong there!
Why do you feel Bath is special?
I feel we are all privileged to live in this beautiful gem of a World Heritage Site city. The architecture, the waters and the gorgeous rolling countryside have been attracting visitors for thousands of years, and this is still a clean, safe and friendly place to live and raise a family. Having travelled as much as I have, I sometimes have to bite my lip when I hear people complaining about our city – I’ve seen people washing in puddles and living under tarpaulin sheets in India, Africa and South America and I know we are truly blessed to be here. Nothing is perfect, of course – but this is close!
Have your ideas about Bath changed over time?
After 15 years working in city management and promotion, I believe I have a solid understanding of our city. The landscape and tourism have shaped it in many ways, both positive and negative. Without the 3–4 million visitors passing through each year, we wouldn’t enjoy the same quality of life. But with that comes increased income and development, along with congestion, pollution and pressure on transport and housing. It’s always a balancing act, and we don’t always get it right. Progress is often slow too. The SouthGate project took over 35 years, and The Rec still isn’t finished!
Tell us about the different places you’ve worked in the city.
I was a founding director and project manager of The Bath BID, which we began in 2008 and launched in 2010. I worked with 650 businesses and 50 key stakeholders to show that this ‘extra tax’ could benefit the city by improving life for businesses, residents and visitors. We delivered the BID, creating a £3 million organisation with 10 staff, which still supports the city today. I later took on a regional and national role with Visit Bath, raising significant funds for the local visitor economy, before becoming CEO at Bath Citizens Advice, where I helped over 20,000 BANES families during Covid through the Community Wellbeing Hub. It was an incredible experience.
Tell us about your role at Mogers Drewett?
I’ve been Head of Marketing and Business Development for just over a year, having returned from national roles in London when this opportunity came up, just five minutes from home! I originally worked with the MD team during the launch of the Bath BID, where Mogers Drewett were key supporters, generously contributing legal expertise to its formation. I’ve worked with several senior partners over the years, so this role feels like reconnecting with old friends. I also enjoy spending time in our other offices in Frome, Wells and Sherborne, thanks to the great culture and positive ethos.
Are there any particular spots in Bath that you find yourself returning to again and again?
I am a big fan of Bath’s parks, especially in the summer. I do love the many outdoor concerts we put on: Bath Festivals’ Party in the City, Pub in The Park, Bath Foodies festival and the Bath Oktoberfest event. I also help organise the annual Bath Boules charity event in Queen Square every summer, which has raised over £750K for Bath-based charities.
Favourite landmarks in the city?
The view from Alexandra Park is one of the best however the view back down across the city from Lansdown is one of the best to get a great perception of the architecture and layout of the ‘bowl’ of the city.
Fave places in the city?
The Widcombe Deli is our absolute favourite, a great family business ran by John and Nicky who have worked with The Ram and the Widcombe Community to create a perfect, electric and fun venue that is great for breakfasts, lunches or a great pint. I also like Topping & Co. Bookshop and their incredible renovation of that iconic building as well as a relaxing coffee in Cafe Lucca, ran by Bath Rock and Roll legend Richard Fenton, followed by a delicious dinner with the Price family at the incredible Woods restaurant.
What’s the overall vibe of the city?
Small enough to care and matter – large enough to have fun and get a little lost sometimes!
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