Britain’s Best Antiques and Bric a Brac

A few years ago we’d have laughed at ourselves, but nowadays, there are few things we love better than rummaging around at an antiques fair in the hopes of finding a fantastic bargain. In recent years, antiquing has become seriously hip and competition to find the best collectors’ fairs and markets has become fierce.

That’s why we’ve spent time trawling through the best of UK antiques fairs and car boot sales, wading around in the mud and grappling with mountains of bric a brac so that you don’t have to. Here’s our verdict on the best of the best:

1. Ardingly Antiques and Collectors Fair

Where? South of England Showground, Ardingly, Sussex

When? Tuesday & Wednesday every 5-8 weeks. In 2016 the fair will be held on 5th-6th January, 1st-2nd March, 19th-20th April, 21st-22nd June, 19th-20th July, 6th-7th September, and 1st-2nd November

The largest fair of its kind in the South of England with up to 1,700 stalls. There are outdoor and indoor sections and you can find everything from vintage home wares to fine antiques, as well as the usual collection of more unique items. This is a popular fair for Londoners as it’s a convenient train ride away, so weekend fairs tend to get very busy. Try to get there early for a chance to pick up the best bargains.

Getting there: The fair is just one hour from London and 30 minutes from Brighton. If you travel by train, get off at Hayward’s Heath station. On Wednesdays you can take a courtesy coach from the station to the fair.

2. Shepton Giant Flea and Collectors Market

Where? The Royal Bath & West Showground, Shepton, Somerset

When? The fair is usually held 5-6 times a year on a Sunday. In 2016 there will be fairs on 3rd January, 28th February, 27th March, 17th July, 25th September, and 4th December.

vintage jewellery at an antique fair

Vintage finds. Photo Chicco Dodi FC

You really never know what to expect at the Shepton flea. Search everything from old CDs and bric a brac to genuine collector’s items. Find a hidden gem here and you could get a real bargain. Top-quality items hide among rows of cast-offs and other people’s junk. So this is a good place to pick up cheap home decor if you like quirky style.

Getting there: The fairgrounds are an easy drive from Bristol or you can take a train to Castle Cary followed by a short taxi ride. Planning to stay in Glastonbury? Visit our Travelodge Glastonbury hotel and have a roam around pretty Salisbury as well.

3. Sheffield Antiques Quarter

Where? Just outside the city centre, around the Queens Road, Broadfield Road area

When? The best day to visit is a Saturday 10am-4pm, but you can visit any time during regular shopping hours.

Ok, so it’s not a mobile fair, but it’s even better because you can visit any time you like (within reason). Sheffield is home to six large antiques centres and a scattering of independent boutiques and shops. Heeley Bank Antiques is one of our personal favourites. You’ll find everything from stunning vintage French-style furniture to beautifully reupholstered chairs and second-hand vinyl. There are also plenty of great cafés in the area.

Getting there: An easy walk from the city centre where you can stay at our great-value Sheffield hotel.

4. Sunbury Antiques Market, Kempton Park

Where? Kempton Park Race Track, Sunbury

When? The second and last Tuesday every month

A true hidden gem. More than 700 stallholders turn up to show off vintage and retro furniture as well as smaller antiques and homeware. There is so much on offer that you’ll hardly know where to turn at first, so come with an idea of what you’re after. But even if you’re not planning on buying, wandering the huge alleyways of incredible items makes for a fun day out.

Getting there: The site offers free parking and the train from Clapham Junction stops directly outside, at Kempton Park station.