Antiquing Across the Pond

Now is a great time to travel to Great Britain to experience an English antique fair. Traveling to England is extraordinarily easy and becoming more affordable with the money conversion rate at an all times low and plenty of discount flight options.
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Once in England you will experience warm welcoming hospitality, affordable hotel rates and easy to use public transportation.  An added plus is everyone speaks English, even though you might get teased a little about your accent.

Treasures discovered!

Bathing beauties.

Vintage European seltzer bottles.

​The weather, usually damp, can get quite chilly though it rarely freezes or snows. Be sure to pack an umbrella, water proof jacket and shoes that can take the mud while you’re searching for treasures.  The fairs go on rain or shine and no one stays home because of the weather!
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A helpful hint is to pack some “disposable clothes”.  You know those jeans that are a little stretched out, maybe even a pair of comfortable but not loved shoes.  You’ll be wearing that rain jacket where no one will see what is under it and you can leave behind those “disposable clothes” to make room in your luggage for your new treasures.
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These are two of my favorite English antique fairs.  They are easy to navigate if you’re staying in London or near the airports.  They are favorites because I can travel by public transportation and not worry about driving on the “wrong” side of the road.  Also, both of these fairs take place during the week and don’t seem as crowded as the weekend fairs.

Sunbury Antiques Market
Located at Kempton Park Racecourse with over 500 stalls.  Takes place the 2nd & last Tuesday of each month.  It’s wise to get there early. The market is advertised from 6:30am – 2 but most vendors leave by noon.  It’s free and about 45 minutes by train from London or 15 minutes by cab or Uber from the Heathrow Airport area. www.sunburyantiques.com 

Ardingly Antiques & Collectors Fair
This is a biggie and happens 6 times a year with over 1500 vendors from all over Europe.  The two day event is on a Tuesday & Wednesday.  It’s a little pricey, 20 pounds to attend on Tuesday (good for both days) or 5 pounds for Wednesday only.  Plan at least an hour by train from London or stay near the Gatwick Airport and be 20 minutes away.  www.iacf.co.uk/ardingly 

After searching for those English treasures be sure and treat yourself to traditional fish & chips whilst planning your next British shopping adventure!

Fish & chips & more!

* Connie Gilbert retired from Delta Airlines after 35 years as an International Flight Attendant.  She travels to England several times a year to search for treasures.

Vintage Junkie, is located on the Street of Shops at Renningers Antique Center in Mt. Dora, Florida.  Stop by any Friday, Saturday & Sunday to discover her Treasures from Travels!