People / My Bristol Favourites
My Bristol Favourites: Jane Ibbunson
Jane Ibbunson is head of fundraising for Southmead Hospital Charity. The charity has launched a new appeal calling on the people of Bristol to ‘Do Something Super for Southmead’ by taking part in fundraising events to raise money for healthcare services.
Here are Jane’s top-five Bristol favourites:
Clifton Cathedral
is needed now More than ever
“Lapsed Catholic that I am, a change of city brought out the urge to put down community roots and return to childhood practice of going to church. Religion aside, Clifton Cathedral is an impressive architectural monument – an expansive space full of natural light yet still welcoming and a perfect place to meditate. Often you can buy fair trade foods and artisan jams after a service which is a real change from my childhood memory of hymns and incense!”
The Olive Shed
“I love The Olive Shed! If friends visit or we want to treat ourselves this is our first choice. Brilliant view of the harbour, good art on the walls and nothing is too much trouble for the staff – one year they sang a very mellifluous chorus of happy birthday to Adam my husband and not to be thwarted by lack of a birthday cake they served up mini versions of all their desserts complete with candles.”
Hamilton House
“I am not a native Bristolian and moved here when my (now) husband and I decided to marry. He has studio space at Hamilton House and in our early days we spent a lot of time there. It’s a creative community having everything from art to poetry to good vegan food to live music. We spent part of our honeymoon in San Francisco and, especially in the summer with everyone sitting outside, Hamilton House reminds me of the Haight-Ashbury district of San Francisco – laid back, singular and ultimately cool.”
Bikram Yoga Studio
“I broke my ankle several years ago and a friend recommended Bikram yoga. It’s a dynamic practice that takes place in a heat filled room – not for the faint hearted and like Marmite; you will either love it or hate it. The heat allows greater flexibility and is great for healing injuries. Bristol’s Bikram Yoga Studio is the friendliest I have been to, not cliquey and everyone feels each other’s pain. It’s great for clearing the mind and restoring sanity.”
Kimmy’s Nails
“You can take the girl out of Essex… Not sure if it’s a weakness or an indulgence but I constantly have my nails manicured. Having your nails done forces you to sit still for an hour and you can think of absolutely nothing. Kimmy’s in Knowle is always busy. Staff and customers alike are chatty and there is always a great hub-bub of gossip. The walls are covered in vibrant murals, gaudy displays of naïve art that are strangely captivating. A little Essex haven in Bristol.”