What is it about antique shopping that we love so much?
Discovering pre-owned antique furniture is not just about owning beautiful and unique pieces; it’s a chance to do your part for the environment too! By choosing antiques, you’re not contributing to the fast furniture industry, which means fewer resources are being used, waste is being reduced, and the carbon footprint is much lower. And there’s more, these antiques have a sentimental value attached to them, and can be passed down through generations, restored to their former glory, or sold to another deserving home where they can continue to be cherished. It’s heartwarming to know that these treasures are less likely to end up in landfills, too.
If you need further convincing, then consider the fact that purchasing second-hand antiques is often much more affordable than buying new pieces. Plus, the search for these hidden gems can be so exciting! Whether you’re an art deco enthusiast, a lover of Eames furniture, or a Scandinavian design fanatic, there’s something out there for you.
If you’re looking to find the best bargains online or searching for the most impressive antique stores in London, here are some tips to get you started on your journey. Antique shops can be found in various neighbourhoods, including Notting Hill, Camden, and Kensington. Some of the most well-known antique shops in London include Grays Antiques in Mayfair, Alfies Antique Market in Marylebone, and Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill. Many of these shops and markets have a rich history, and their interiors often reflect the style and character of the era in which they were established.
Let’s embark on this adventure together and uncover the rarest and most unique pieces to bring into our homes and lives!
Here are some tips for a successful antique shopping hunt
- First, before you visit the shop, take a peek at their website – It’s a great way to see what they have in stock and to get a feel for their style. Plus, if you see something you like, don’t be afraid to contact them by email and request photos. This will save you time and make your visit more productive!
- Remember the name of the sellers you like and make a mental note to go back and look again later – Who knows what hidden gems you’ll find on your second visit!
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions – Antique dealers are often very knowledgeable about the items they sell and are happy to share their expertise with you. So, if you see something you like but have questions about its history or origin, don’t hesitate to ask.
- Take your time – Antique shopping should be a leisurely experience, not a race. Take the time to explore each item, appreciate its details, and imagine how it might look in your home.
- Bring a friend – Antique shopping can be a lot of fun, but it’s even better when you have someone to share it with. Bring a friend who shares your love of antiques, and make a day of it. Not only will you have someone to bounce ideas off of, but you’ll also have someone to help you carry your treasures home!
- If you’re planning to hit an outdoor market, make sure to check the weather – Nothing is more enjoyable than perusing antique treasures on a sunny day, surrounded by the buzz of the market.
- Make sure you stick to your budget – It’s easy to get swept away by the beauty of antique clocks, vintage mirrors, and ornate chandeliers. There will always be more opportunities to discover new treasures in the future, and you don’t want to break the bank on a single purchase.
So, let’s go out there and explore the world of antiques! Who knows what rare and unique pieces we’ll find, and what stories they’ll bring into our homes and lives. Happy hunting!
Antique online websites and marketplaces
One of the best things about antique online marketplaces is the ease of searching for specific items! You can use various filters, such as category, era, and price range, to narrow down your search and find exactly what you’re looking for. Plus, antique marketplaces often have a feedback and rating system, which allows you to see the reputation of the seller and their customer service history. This gives you added confidence in your purchase and ensures that you’re dealing with trustworthy sellers. Let’s have a look at the most famous ones!
The online marketplace brings together over 1,850 vintage sellers from over 30 countries, making it easy for you to discover unique one-of-a-kind pieces and shop sustainably. Each item is carefully curated, hand-picked, and expertly selected, ensuring that it’s of the best quality and most unique.
Website
Very similar marketplace that connects you with unique and stylish pieces from all over Europe. The platform allows you to directly order items you love from the seller, making it incredibly easy and convenient. Plus, once you’ve placed your order, it notifies the seller to confirm the availability of the item. However, before checking out, it’s always wise to verify the delivery prices and options to ensure a smooth and hassle-free delivery process.
Website
Vintage sellers can list their items individually or link directly to their own web pages, making them accessible to vintage enthusiasts 24/7. All items listed on our site are over 50 years old, with accurate and informative descriptions.
Website
Ebay, the online marketplace, is your go-to destination for many antique items worldwide! With a global reach and a diverse range of sellers, Ebay allows you to explore and discover unique antiques you won’t find anywhere else.
Website
Not only is it the perfect place to discover handmade and vintage items, but it’s also a treasure trove for antique enthusiasts. From vintage jewellery and collectibles to antique furniture and home decor, Etsy offers a wide selection of one-of-a-kind pieces that will add character and charm to your home.
Website
Andrew Nebbett Designs is a family-owned company with a long history of designing and dealing in antiques and designer pieces. With valuable restoration knowledge in various fields, Andrew and his team have created a range of beautifully handcrafted furniture, fittings, and rails. Their clients include rock stars, interior designers, or royalty seeking to make an impression.
Website
Explore a range of unique and vintage items shipped directly from France at this antique store, including beautiful vases, chaises, and vintage lighting from the 1950s to the 1970s. You’ll also find a selection of vases from France to add some character to your home decor. So, come and discover the hidden treasures that await you!
Website
Antique markets and showrooms in London
If you’re looking for antique showrooms in London, then you’re in luck! These shops specialise in different categories, such as Georgian or Victorian furniture, vintage clothing, or ancient artefacts. Markets and showrooms are located in various neighbourhoods, including Notting Hill, Camden, and Kensington, each with its own character and charm. Whether you’re an art deco collector or a lover of Scandinavian design, you’re sure to find something that resonates with you.
Antiques markets in London
Alfies Antiques Market in Marylebone
Step into a world of vintage fashion, mid-century interiors, and the finest Middle Eastern art and antiquities at this incredible antique market! With four floors of unique and stunning pieces, it’s a must-visit destination for interior designers, collectors, and set designers for theatre and television. Discover the biggest covered market for antiques in London and uncover the stories and history that each piece holds!
Website
Address
13-25 Church Street. Marylebone. London, NW8 8DT
Held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, it’s the perfect destination for antique enthusiasts. Explore the Georgian Village section for cheaper goods, old books, and clothes, or head to the Mall side for more expensive items like paintings, furniture, and Victorian objets d’art. Uncover unique pieces that will add character and charm to your home!
Website
Address
1 Camden Passage, London N1 8EA
Northcote Road Antiques in Clapham
With over 30 dealers showcasing a diverse range of antiques, vintage, retro, and collectibles, it’s the perfect place to discover unique and one-of-a-kind pieces. Open seven days a week since 1986, it’s a true gem that will capture your heart and imagination!
Website
Address
155a Northcote Road, London SW11 6QB
Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill
Experience the magic of Portobello vintage market! With a rich history and a diverse range of stalls, it’s the perfect destination for vintage enthusiasts. Explore the colourful streets lined with vintage fashion, unique antiques, and hidden gems. The antiques Portobello market is held on Saturdays. From vintage items to food and fashion, there is something for everyone there!
Website
Address
Located next to Portobello Green
Antiques showroom in London
Peacock’s Finest in Belsize Park
The Peacock’s Finest in Belsize Park offers a collection of fine furniture and decorative objects for modern interiors. If you’re looking for unique and elegant pieces, this shop may have just what you’re looking for. Don’t forget to call or email before visiting as viewings are by appointment only.
Website
Address
Buckland Cres, Belsize Park, London NW3 5DJ
Discover a treasure trove of mid-century modern furniture at this stunning warehouse store in North London’s De Beauvoir near Regents Canal. There’s something for everyone, from Danish sofas to retro sideboards, glass vases, vintage lighting, and more. Stop by the café for a delicious coffee or pastry and soak up the sunny weather on the outdoor benches. Experience the beauty of carefully chosen and restored vintage furniture!
Website
Address
2-4 Southgate Rd, London N1 3JJ
Experience a one-of-a-kind shopping destination at this store in West London! Housed in a former picture house, The Old Cinema boasts a 10,000-square-foot showroom that has been a Chiswick landmark since 1979. Explore the unique and stunning collection of vintage and antique items that await you!
Website
Address
160 Chiswick High Road, W4 1PR
Aladdin’s Vintage Furniture & Cafe in Finsbury Park
Find the perfect balance of old and new at this antique furniture store! With a focus on period furniture, they also buy and sell modern pine furniture, restore all types of furniture, and offer budget options for students and landlords. Whether you’re looking for a stunning antique piece or a modern update, they have it all!
Address
1 Hazellville Road, London N19 3LW
Christopher Butterworth Antiques in Belgravia
Discover the timeless beauty of Christopher Butterworth Antiques in Belgravia! With a stunning collection that spans from the 17th century to the 1970s, they are renowned for their period lighting and decorative objects. Each piece is rigorously selected, including lamps, lanterns, wall lights, and chandeliers, to ensure that only the finest quality items are offered to customers.
Website
Address
71 Pimlico Rd, London SW1W 8NE
Lillie Road collective of 18 Antiques shops in Fulham
Experience the diversity of antique furniture at this collective of 19 shops. From traditional French country painted furniture to classical English furniture, and even Mid-century design classics and garden furniture, there’s something for every taste and style.
Website
Address
Lillie Road, Fulham, London, SW6 7LL
Fine Art Society in Carnaby Street, Soho
Experience the beauty of fine art at the Fine Art Society in Carnaby Street, Soho! Since 1876, they have specialized in prints and paintings from the 1800s and 1900s, offering a stunning collection that captures the essence of these eras. Discover the timeless elegance of their pieces and add a touch of sophistication to your home!
Website
Address
Marlborough Court, 25 Carnaby Street, London W1F 7DE
Raffety and Walwyn in Kensington Church Street
Enter the timeless world of Raffety and Walwyn in Kensington Church Street! Discover a stunning collection of 17th & 18th Century antique English clocks, antique barometers, chronometers, and fine antique English furniture. Whether you’re a collector or simply appreciate the beauty of these pieces, you’ll find something to adore. Plus, the store offers restoration services for timekeepers of all types, from watches to grandfather clocks, so you can ensure that your treasured pieces are in top condition.
Website
Address
123 Kensington Church St, London W8 7LP
Antique shopping in London is a unique and exciting experience, with a wide variety of shops, markets, and online marketplaces to explore. From vintage fashion and mid-century modern furniture to antique clocks and fine art, there’s something for everyone. By choosing antiques, we can not only own beautiful and unique pieces but also reduce waste and our environmental footprint, and this is also important.
