Somerset
United Kingdom
Admittedly Somerset is a bit of a schlep if you are based in London. Still, with plenty of antique-crammed coves to explore you can justify the drive - and even spend the weekend.
4. Shepton Mallet Antiques & Collectors Fair
13 September, 2019
Founded by gallerist and curator India Whalley, homeware and interiors store The Edition 94 is a one-stop-shop for glint-eyed buyers. Shoppers can bag everything from marbled lampshades and opalescent vases to raffia and linens, scalloped ceramics and murano glassware.
Keen to fill your retrofied home full of dreamy pastel hues and 60s knick-knacks? India Whalley shares her top tips for antique hunting in the UK - and where to seek out a bargain.
1. Trust your gut. There is nothing worse than dreaming about the finds you left behind.
2. Use the pieces you buy. In doing so, you are only adding to their historical and emotional value.
3. Just one piece of antique or vintage furniture can transform a whole room. It can be a slow process finding the right mixture of pieces from different eras - be patient and don't be disappointed if you don't find something on every treasure hunt.
Ardingly Antiques & Collectors Fair is the largest antiques fair in Southern England with around 1,700 indoor and outdoor stalls. Wade your way through an amazing variety of sellers and items on a mid-week escape from London. When you're through, refer to Whalley's extended list of antique hideouts worth exploring…
United Kingdom
Admittedly Somerset is a bit of a schlep if you are based in London. Still, with plenty of antique-crammed coves to explore you can justify the drive - and even spend the weekend.
4. Shepton Mallet Antiques & Collectors Fair
United Kingdom
For antique hunters who would categorise their foraging as "low key", Lewes is the perfect spot. With everything close together, it's easy to explore by foot - no jumping in and out of the car en route to your next haul.
2. Emporium Antiques Centre
Wales, United Kingdom
This mini market town was originally famed for bookshops, but in recent years many have been remodelled as antique stores. Forage for interesting decorative items under the shadow of the beautiful Hay Castle.
United Kingdom
Only a 40-minute drive from Hay-on-Wye, this is the place to continue your hunt along the England-Wales border. With a number of antique centres and markets housing a range of sellers under one roof, Leominster is a great place to get lost in the nooks and crannies.
1. The Secondhand Warehouse and Antiques Centre
2. Medlicotts
United Kingdom
In the summer months Hastings is the perfect place for a day trip out of London. Spend the morning antiquing and the afternoon on the beach eating fish and chips.
1. Grand Designs Antique & Unique
2. Style 1900
3. Hastings Antiques Centre
