As the weather starts to warm up and the days grow sunnier, it feels good to get outside, to explore and perhaps, even do a little treasure hunting. While many antique fairs and flea markets up and down the country continue through the colder months, it is during the spring and summer season that they really come into their own. We are a nation of treasure hunters on the lookout for the best bargains and treasure troves. From kitchenalia to books, clothing to furniture, silverware to paintings, there’s really nothing you won’t find.
The beauty of an antique market then, is the unknown. Of not knowing what you’ll find when you arrive. Bursting with inspiration for your home, whatever your decor style, it is a joy to see what’s on offer – even if you come home empty-handed. So, if you happen to be visiting one of our stores, or find yourself in the area, we’ve listed four of the very best antique fairs that are well worth a visit and peruse in 2019.
Expanding to Sandown Park Racecourse in April due to its enduring success at Sunbury-on-Thames, this antique fair stands as the largest and longest-running bi-monthly market in the UK. Its reputation is irrefutable, with more than 700 stalls boasting rows of furniture, kitchenware, vintage items and more.
‘This is an amazing place for anything to do with interiors’ Anna Laub Stella Magazine, May 2015
Occurring the second and last Tuesday of every month from 6:30am – 2pm, you can find out more information at sunburyantiques.com
Renowned as one of the largest flea markets in the UK, Peterborough’s Festival of Antiques really does have something for everyone. Taking place twice a year at the East of England Showground – with the first over the Easter Weekend (19th – 20th April) – it includes a staggering 1,700 stall holders; so be sure to hone your bartering skills and set aside a whole day for a good wander!
From paintings and glassware to antique furniture, jewellery, pottery and more, head to festivalofantiques.co.uk for more information.
We couldn’t compile a list of four of the best antique markets to visit in the UK and not include the Newark Antiques and Collector’s Fair, now could we? Listed as one of the ‘1000 Things To See Before You Die’, this world-renowned fair will certainly keep you busy with over 2,500 stalls showcasing all manner of vintage accessories. From rugs to sport memorabilia, kitchenware to furniture – it might be a good idea to make yourself a list of the things you want to look out for before you go!
With free parking on site, the next event runs Thursday 4th – Friday 5th April.
Taking place up to 8 times a year, the Great Wetherby Racecourse Antiques Fair in West Yorkshire is another favourite thanks to its local memorabilia and wide selection of curios and collectables. Taking place on 23rd – 24th March, tickets start from just £4.
In addition to the many antique fairs and flea markets happening up and down the country throughout this year, it’s certainly worth mentioning the many antique emporiums, car boot sales and vintage shops too. If you’re visiting a new city or town for the weekend, do a little research before you go so you’ve got a list of the best ones to visit while you’re there.
Happy treasure hunting!
