Sourcing Antique & Vintage Homewares: Let the treasure hunt surprise you

I’m drawn to pieces with soul, character and history - those that aren’t too polished or perfect. A little wear, a bit of patina… these signs of life make a piece feel storied and loved. 

There’s no set place I go to source my Antiques. I might find something beautiful at a car boot sale, in a Facebook Marketplace listing, in a curated shop or warehouse of antiques, or even by the roadside. The joy of treasure hunting is in the unknown - some of the best treasures come when you least expect it.  

Beautiful Curated Vintage Stall at the Spring Market - Fabulous Places

The UK is filled with incredible antiques markets and shops. For the occasional Sunday treat, I love to explore our Antiques Market on St Albans High Street - whilst most of the best finds sell early in the day, I’ve been known to get a treasure for a bargain price going later when things have quietened down.

St Albans High Street Vintage Market

Alternatively, if I’m wanting to fill my day (days!) sourcing, Hemswell Antiques Centre - an old RAF base in Lincolnshire is a real treasure trove. It’s known as Europe’s largest antiques centre, and it really does live up to that – I love visiting the lovely cafe on site when I need a break from sourcing. 

Hemswell Antiques Centre - Lincolnshire

Sourcing Tips: 

• Trust your gut - if you love it, you’ll find a place for it
• Don’t be put off by dust - that can be cleaned (but make sure it’s not hiding any damage that can’t be!)
• Look past small chips or scratches if the function isn’t affected and it adds character
• Don’t compromise on something you feel unsure about - another piece will come, and it might be even better  

Fiona

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Do you have a favourite place to hunt for treasures — or a piece you almost didn’t bring home, but are so glad you did? I’d love to hear.