By Ron Pringle & Cynthia Wihardja, Beau Nash Antiques
As the Christmas market fills the city centre, many Bath residents plan their shopping around the crowds. We suggest a gentler idea. Stroll up to the quieter top of town and meet our neighbours on Brock Street and Margaret’s Buildings, the independent design and shopping quarter tucked between the Royal Crescent and the Circus.
Need something for the home? Louise at Hessian Collective gathers vintage Scandinavian furniture and lighting with character, while Arte House pairs antiques with Modern British art. For bolder tastes, Jamie and Tom at Divine Savages tempt you with maximalist wallpapers and fabrics, and Tobias’s team at 8 Holland Street brings modern design classics and art together with a gallery eye. Around the corner, Dan’s team at Red Rag Gallery champions living British and Irish artists. Our own doors at Beau Nash, 28 and 31 Brock Street, open onto antique furniture and silver, with fresh arrivals for Christmas and home trials for locals. And if you’d like a guiding hand, David and Pippa at Chapter Interiors offer personal design consultations.
Christmas list still growing? Vanessa’s Homefront Interiors is a treasure trove of gifts and cards for loved ones, with every excuse to treat yourself. Catherine’s stained glass at Wyrd catches the winter light, and Bo at Gallery Nine curates jewellery and paintings, each with a maker’s story. Book lovers can lose themselves in Bath Old Books, the city’s quirkiest bookshop, rich in design and architecture titles.
For the party season, Tanya at Uber, a former stylist, curates British and European labels, while Paul, Jo and Sammy at Pockets dress you in designer wear. Declutter the wardrobe with Mercy in Action, welcoming donations for a good cause. Then let Monika at MK Beauty and Giuseppe and Rachel’s team at Figo Salon get you feeling fresh and ready.
All that browsing working up an appetite? Settle in at Crescent Restaurant for a comforting meal with Simon and Leanne’s fun banter; it’s like dropping in on friends. Claire and Henry’s brunches and cakes at The Green Bird Café are worth the walk uphill, and Andrew’s Hong Kong-inspired snacks at Komorebi bring a bright change of flavour. Or book at The Circus Restaurant, where chef Matt presents seasonal menus and Mike’s team looks after you beautifully. Keep an eye out, too, for Taylor’s Bagels, opening soon.
While the city centre celebrates, we’ll be up here as always, unhurried and personal. Most shops open from 10am to 5pm. Enjoy peaceful Christmas shopping with us. We’d love to see you.
Beau Nash Antiques
Antique Shop in Bath
28 and 31 Brock St, BA1 2
beaunashbath.com; info@beaunashbath.com; @beaunashbath
07535137808