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A specially curated guide to help you enjoy the next 48 hours (or more) in Bristol
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CIRCUS | EASTER HOLIDAY FUN
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The Revel Puck Circus, Dove Lane, St Pauls, 7-24 April
A fresh face for the modern circus, The Revel Pucks are bringing their contemporary flair to Bristol.
Formed in East London in 2018, the 19-strong troupe are redefining the circus landscape across the United Kingdom with their smash hit production, The Wing Scuffle Spectacular. The Revel Puck Circus is a union of acrobatics, music, costumes, and storytelling – featuring the cream of British circus artists in a joyous large-scale production.
Ticket holders can expect an Easter holiday outing with a variety of local food and beverage options on offer – including a partnership with a local brewery, street food stands, and popcorn and candy floss stalls. Additional entertainment will be provided by the Brizzle Boyz and Drag Queen Bingo.
A brilliant new circus show suitable for all ages. No animals, no ringmasters, no bad clowns. Tickets are now available via the online box office on The Revel Puck Circus website: revelpuckcircus.com
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OUR APRIL ISSUE: OUT NEXT WEEK
Our April magazine features a collection of great reading by our team of wonderful writers as well as beautifully presented advertising by Bristol's best businesses. We hope you'll enjoy the read!
15,000 copies are delivered door to door, and you can pick up a copy at many places around town – including our stands at Waitrose, John Lewis, House of Fraser and Harvey Nichols.
You can also read the digital version of our current issue by clicking 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.
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| Follow us on Twitter or Instagram |
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COMPETITION | WINNING WORDS
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Guess the mystery word – and win a £25 Waitrose voucher
Introducing our Winning Words competition: each week, we'll be picking a wonderfully obscure word for you to guess. You'll get a clue and a few letters – but the rest is up to you!
If you think you know the answer, click the link below to email us with your guess. You'll be in with the chance to win a £25 Waitrose voucher. The answer and a new Winning Word to parse will appear in our next newsletter.
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This week's 12 letter word is made up using the above letters in green – the blue letters are used twice. We’ve placed 2 letters to give you a start.
Clue: we've all got someone like this in our lives. They seem to go on and on (and on) –without making a whole lot of sense...
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| Dressed to kill: in conversation with novelist Freya Berry |
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Bristol-born author and former journalist Freya Berry had front row seats to the 2016 US election, reporting live from New York. However, as the world’s eyes became fixed on the future president of the United States of America, Freya became obsessed with the first lady and the part she played in the campaign. In Freya’s debut novel – out now – she delves deeper into the lives of world leaders’ wives…
Read the full feature on The Bristol Magazine website: thebristolmag.co.uk
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WEEKEND RECIPE | EAT YOUR GREENS
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| Recipe by Melissa Blease |
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| Green Risotto with Crispy Prosciutto |
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Packed with lively, fresh flavours and topped with crispy shards of salty prosciutto, this super-vibrant risotto is an elegantly indulgent supper for two, comforting enough to keep you cosy on chilly evenings while gently nudging your tastebuds towards spring.
At first glance, there may look like quite a lot of pre-prep and 'setting to one side' going on in this recipe. But none of the stages are complicated to follow, nor are they time consuming; overall, this is an easy-going, laid back dish that may ask you to putter around the kitchen a bit while you're putting it together, but really won't mind if you have a glass of wine in hand while doing so.
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the prosciutto and add a bit more feta to serve.
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| Ingredients (serves 2) |
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70g prosciutto
500ml vegetable stock
200g frozen peas, defrosted
250g asparagus
50g spinach
½ bunch fresh mint
½ bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley
3-4 shallots
150g risotto rice
100ml dry white wine
40g parmesan, finely grated
The zest and juice of ½ large lemon
50g feta cheese
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| Method |
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1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas mark 4. Lay the prosciutto slices across a greaseproof paper-lined baking tray and roast for around 10-12 minutes until crisp, keeping a close eye on proceedings to prevent burning. Tip onto kitchen paper and set to one side.
2. Snap the woody ends off the asparagus spears and discard. Bring the stock to the boil, add the asparagus spears, turn the heat down and simmer the spears until just tender (probably around 4-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the spears). Take the pan off the heat and, using kitchen tongs or a fork, remove the spears from the hot stock, refresh in cold water, drain, cut into bite-sized chunks (keeping the tips intact) and set to one side. But do not throw the stock away – it's going into the risotto.
3. Tip 150g of the peas into a blender with the spinach, mint, parsley (reserving a few herb leaves for garnish) and 100ml of the reserved vegetable stock. Blitz to form a smooth purée and set to one side.
4. And now we make the risotto! Heat 1 tbsp olive oil with 1 tbsp butter in a medium-sized, high-sided saucepan and sauté the chopped shallots for around 4 minutes until translucent. Add the rice to the pan and turn the grains in the oil/butter for around 2 minutes. Add the wine and allow to bubble down for a further 2 minutes. Add a ladleful of warm stock and simmer until absorbed, then repeat the process with the remaining stock until it’s all absorbed and the rice is tender – this whole process will probably take no more than 15-20 minutes in total.
5. Take the risotto off the heat and stir the pea purée, remaining 50g peas, asparagus (still reserving the tips), finely-grated parmesan, lemon zest and lemon juice through the rice and season well with plenty of black pepper (you probably won't need salt, as both the prosciutto and the feta bring plenty of their own to the party).
6. Serve the risotto immediately in warm bowls topped with shards of crispy prosciutto, the reserved asparagus spears, chunks of crumbled feta and the yet more freshly-chopped herbs.
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FOUR OF A KIND | WASTE NOT WANT NOT
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| Words by Melissa Blease |
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| 4 Ways With Leftovers |
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| Parmesan rinds |
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There are a many reasons we all need to keep a wedge of Parmesan handy – and one of those reasons is the rind: the secret ingredient in all manner of recipes. Toss a Parmesan rind in the pan when you're making a classic Italian tomato sauce, soups (especially minestrone or white bean-based soups), bolognese, mac'n'cheese sauce or stock for risotto. Fish the oozy, gooey mess out of the pot just before serving and prepare your tastebuds for a whole new dimension of rich, savoury umami flavour. Too many rinds lying around? Keep them in a plastic bag in the freezer.
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| Broccoli and Cauliflower stalks |
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Peel the tough outer layer from broccoli or cauliflower stalks, chop into chunks, steam them and use them as a wonderful pureed base for soups and sauces. They're also good finely-shredded in coleslaw, and they pickle really well: simply slice the peeled stalks into thin batons and submerge them in a hot vinegar brine seasoned with salt, sugar and spices of your choice (peppercorns; mustard/coriander seeds; bay leaves?). Allow to cool before covering and refrigerating overnight before use (the pickle will keep in the fridge for up to 3 weeks).
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| Butternut Squash/Pumpkin seeds |
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Dry out on kitchen paper, grind in a blender or coffee grinder and use as a crust for fish or lamb. Blend with butter to make an interesting alternative to nut butter. Add to granola, pesto or cookie dough. Or, roast them to create the most delectable with-drinks nibbles: toss dry squash seeds in a bowl with a little olive oil, paprika, salt and black pepper, spread them out on a tray and roast in a moderately hot oven for around 12-15 minutes, tossing regularly until the seeds give off a nutty aroma and have turned golden brown.
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| Over-ripe Bananas |
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Keep unpeeled ripe or overripe bananas in the freezer and thaw them later for banana bread, banana cookies or banana oatcakes. You can also use frozen ripe bananas in smoothies, or blend them to create a fabulously creamy, naturally sweet, one-ingredient banana ice cream. Or... mash one over-ripe banana with 1 tsp lemon juice/2 tsp Manuka honey/ ½ tsp turmeric to make a 15-minute face mask to treat dull/inflamed/dry skin; honestly, it really works!
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| Spanish Sparklers |
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Vintage Brut Gran Reserva Cava – Pere Ventura
Winning Platinum in the 2020 ‘Decanter’ awards, this is a signature cava which unites the body and structure of the Xarel·lo with the floral and fruity qualities of the Chardonnay. The result is a fine, harmonious and subtle cava, whose expressive aromas, creamy touch, and exquisite character are truly seductive. This cava's creamy, velvety texture is, without a doubt, beguiling to the last drop. £36.50
Albariño Brut – Mar de Frades
Golden yellow with lemon green hues. On the nose it is complex and expressive. First it releases bottle ageing notes and a sea water, eucalyptus and white fruit in the background that remind us of albariño grape. A toasted bread and almond kernel character pervade. On the mouth it is broad, tasty and fresh. In the aftertaste the typical albariño notes reappear with a pleasant and crispy aftertaste. £29.50
Cava Brut Reserva – Perelada
Pale yellow, with good bubble definition. Thanks to its ageing, it has developed a fine aroma with hints of white flowers, warm biscuit and a spritz of lemon. Its well-balanced structure, elegance and sensorial richness form an unmistakable personality… and excellent value at only £9.99
La Cuvée Brut Organic – Gramona
A superbly elegant sparkling wine, with complex yet vibrant notes of peach, apricot, golden apple, lemon peel, blanched almond and meadow flowers. Upon taking a sip, the first impression is of well-rounded, supple texture, offset by fine crispness and a creamy mousse. The lingering impression reflects the nose: citrus, apple, almond. Very refreshing, long finish. £29.50
Cuveé Classic Cava – Pere Ventura
Pere Ventura's high-quality cava house was established in 1992, but draws on a sparkling wine heritage that extends deep into the past. Ageing takes a minimum of 18 months in the cool Père Ventura cellars, although some of its cavas are allowed to rest for as long as three years or more. "Take risks and pursue excellence,'" advises Père: "That is the secret of success." This elegantly balanced Cava has fine, frothy bubbles and a vibrant golden hue. The aromas of crunchy green apple and white peach come to the fore on the nose, alongside hints of lemon balm and toasted brioche. £12.50
Imperial Brut Organic – Gramona
Complex aromas of apple and white peach, with notes of aniseed, fennel, freshly-baked bread and a subtle hint of citrus peel. Beautifully-balanced in the mouth, with hints of fine patisserie, roasted nuts, toast, yeast and buttery character. Generous, full and creamy in texture, with velvety-smooth bubbles. Refreshing finish, on which vibrant white flower and fruit aromas are manifested. £29.95
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OBJECT OF INTEREST | MARCO BICEGO
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| Discover the colours of Jaipur |
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Every piece of Marco Bicego jewellery features a combination of fine Italian craftsmanship and creativity. The designs are based on three signature features: multi-coloured gemstones, the finest detailing and hand engraved 18ct gold.
Here we take a look at the Jaipur collection, inspired by the colours of India and the stone cutting heritage of Jaipur. Whether rings, earrings, bracelets or necklaces, each piece is characterised by its prism-cut gemstones and epitomises the understated elegance that the jeweller is famous for.
Above left: Jaipur 18ct yellow gold blue topaz ring, £960
Above right: Jaipur mixed gemstone bracelet in 18ct yellow gold, £1,860
Mallory has a superb selection of these and many more Marco Bicego pieces waiting to be discovered.
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| You can view the Hope and Homes for Children privacy policy at www.hopeandhomes.org/privacy. Registered charity (No. 1089490) |
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L'OCCITANE Solidarity Hand Cream: launching 28 March
A 30ml Apricot Scented edition of L’OCCITANE's iconic, 100% sustainably sourced and Fair Trade shea butter hand cream. £8
100% of the profits from the sale of the Solidarity Hand Cream will be donated to UNICEF via The L’OCCITANE Foundation, to fund Vitamin A supplementation programmes worldwide.
Available from the L'OCCITANE website from 28 March: uk.loccitane.com
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INDEPENDENT SHOUT OUT | DRESS TO IMPRESS
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Benedict Raven: Club Polo Shirts
Every man’s smart casual wardrobe favourite, the Club polo is an everyday essential. Made from a breathable cotton-piqué, cut for a casual fit, and subtly finished with Benedict Raven's tonal embroidered feather at left chest. Combine smart and casual for the ultimate dress up or down outfit staple. Above left: Club Polo Shirt, Grey; above right: Club Polo Shirt, Sky. £45
Click here to shop Benedict Raven polo shirts.
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ON THE BOX | LORDS AND LADIES
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Netflix: Bridgerton – series two
The eight close-knit siblings of the Bridgerton family look for love and happiness in London high society. Inspired by Julia Quinn's bestselling novels.
Bridgerton series one and two is now available to watch on Netflix: netflix.com; you can read our article on what to expect from the latest series over on The Bristol Magazine website: thebristolmag.co.uk
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CINEMA | BRISTOL FILM FESTIVAL
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| Interstellar, The Planetarium, April 2-3 |
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Take your seats in Bristol’s incredible Planetarium at We The Curious for an unforgettable film experience!
Explore the Planetarium’s Space exhibition, then recline in this unique screening space as the lights dim and your journey begins.
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| Some Like It Hot, Clifton Observatory, Sunday 3 April |
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The Bristol Film Festival's Spirit Of Cinema selection for the month of April begins with the madcap romcom/crime caper Some Like It Hot.
Enjoy it alongside two Gin & Tonics, each made with a different artisan gin.
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THE MAGAZINE KIOSK | WHY WE LOVE PRINT
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Curated by Daniel McCabe
Croatia-based 46pgs describes itself as "a magazine with a graphic heart" by which it means graphic art with passion. This fascinating, dense and immersive magazine is an international collaborative effort created in a "virtual guerilla-gallery atmosphere", according to its editor publisher who invites contributors to take something they're obsessed with – perhaps a song, a movie, a quote, a poem, a book or whatever – and design it. It’s all very much in the distressed, collagistic grunge/trash aesthetic pioneered by design iconoclasts David Carson and more recently Thomas Schostok, a phenomenon now being re-energised by a new generation of graphic artists. £24.99
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Magalleria is a Bath-based shop and online retailer, selling fine and interesting magazines from independent and selected publishers from all over the globe. Visit the website to find out more: magalleria.co.uk
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FESTIVAL | PAY WHAT YOU CAN
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Mayfest returns for its first edition in four years
Bristol’s trailblazing international festival of contemporary performance Mayfest has announced its thrilling programme of performances, parties, film, and participatory artworks spanning 13-29 May.
- Festival highlights include the UK premieres of Austrian artist Doris Uhlich’s naked dance party-come-durational choreography and Zurich-based Monika Truong’s interactive performance Be Part Of
- Birthmarked – a new concept gig by Bristol-based artist Brook Tate, directed by Sally Cookson (A Monster Calls, Wonder Boy)
- New performances from Scottee & Travis Alabanza (Rallying Cry), Verity Standen (polyphony) and composer Benji Bower (Terra Coda)
In a first for Mayfest and in a move towards a more accessible and inclusive festival, each and every event will be priced on a Pay What You Can basis from a minimum of £1, with attendees encouraged to pay the price that feels right for them.
The festival begins on Friday 13 May with a free opening party in the foyer of Bristol Old Vic at 9pm. Expect performances, DJ sets, drinks and dancing.
Find further information and tickets on the Mayfest website: mayk.org.uk/mayfest-programme
Featured image: Be Part Of | image credit: Linda Pollari
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Bristol Sounds announces six headline shows for 2022
Bristol Sounds has announced its return to the city’s much-loved harbourside, with the event expanded to six nights for the very first time.
Bringing a landmark bill of live music to the heart of the city, the open-air summer concert series will take place from Wednesday June 22 to Monday June 27 2022.
The weekend will kick off on Wednesday 22nd June with Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds and Confidence Man. Newly added to the bill is Paolo Nutini on Thursday 23 June and a return to the city for Elbow on Friday 24 June.
Saturday 25 June will feature electronic pop duo Jungle with just announced support act, Welsh electronic musician, and producer Kelly Lee Owens. Sunday 26 June will see First Aid Kit and Katy J Pearson serving up a headline show for Bristol and wrapping up the 2022 edition will be The War On Drugs.
Tickets for all shows went on sale at 9am today (25 March 2022), and are available for purchase from: seetickets.com.
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TEAM NEWS | SARACENS V BRISTOL BEARS
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Gallagher Premiership Saturday 26 March, 3pm kick off
Harry Randall returns from Six Nations duty for the Bears’ showdown with Saracens at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday
The England international is one of eight changes for the round 21 clash, partnering Tiff Eden at half back, with Piers O’Conor returning in the midfield alongside Antoine Frisch. Jack Bates is named on the wing.
Jake Woolmore and Harry Thacker come into the front row, with Joe Joyce captaining the side from the second row and Chris Vui shifting to number six. Dan Thomas starts at openside with Fitz Harding at number eight.
On the bench, Pat Lam welcomes back Charles Piutau from injury, with the All Black joining John Afoa, Callum Sheedy and Semi Radradra as system players.
Keep up to date with the latest Bristol Bears news via twitter : twitter.com/BristolBears
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INTERIORS GUIDE | ECO FRIENDLY SOFAS
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Sofology: The Vision Sofa
Simple style, deep cushions and soft, rounded wooden feet – this cosy design gives you the opportunity to change up the look of your sofa with swappable loose covers. Over time, these extra covers could save you the cost of buying a new sofa, helping the planet at the same time. £1699 for the 2 Seater Sofa.
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The Vision is part of the Sofology Sustainable Edit. The Edit is built on the belief that less can be more, with sofas that are versatile and super cosy, wrapped up in a range of simple styles. Classic sofa silhouettes given a contemporary twist are mindfully made with the latest innovations in sustainable materials in the Sofology Sustainable Edit.
Shop The Vision and Edit in store at Sofology's new Bristol branch, which can be found at Highwood Lane, Patchway, Bristol BS34 5TQ. Alternatively, browse the collection on the Sofology website: sofology.co.uk
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PROPERTY | A PERFECT GARDEN APARTMENT
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Whatley Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8
Two bedroom garden apartment offered for sale by Ocean estate agents
This is a really lovely, spacious two double-bedroom garden flat with a private entrance, located on Whatley Road within a charming, end of terrace period building.
The level access is ideal for day-to-day ease and the apartment is entered on St Johns Road - an extremely quiet and desirable location in Clifton close to Whiteladies Road and all the amenities on offer.
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Offering two sizeable bedrooms, a stylish separate kitchen and modern bathroom, the light and airy lounge provides direct access to the well-presented south-facing garden.
To the front of the property is a private gated courtyard with secure bike shed.
The property is perfect for down sizers and first time buyers requiring some extra space to enjoy the sun and includes a stone folly which is a particularly special feature.
The property is chain free while being situated within the Clifton East Residents Parking Zone. Guide Price: £500,000
For further images and all the details click here to see the property on the OceanHome.co.uk website
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| Trending on our website this week: |
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