Ardingly Antiques Fair

WHAT TO EXPECT

The next fair is just around the corner, taking place on Tuesday 2nd and Wednesday 3rd September. One of our team members visited the fair recently, so we’ve got the inside scoop on what to expect and how to prepare if youre planning to attend.

If you have a passion for all things vintage, a love for hidden gems and a thrill for finding unique pieces, Ardingly Antiques fair is a must visit.

Its held at the South of England Showground in West Sussex, and draws in dealers and collectors from all over the UK and Europe, offering a mix of fine antiques to knick-knacks. As its the largest antiques fair held in the South East, expect a lot of variety, from fabrics, to pots, to vintage silverware, garden furniture and beyond.

The fair runs regularly for two days each time, so its a perfect mid-week escape to partake in some conscious  and sustainable retail therapy.

The traders who specialise in high end decorative pieces, often have a wealth of knowledge so its also a great opportunity to chat to dealers and learn something new or hear a great story about the item you are buying.

HOW TO PREPARE

Have a list of items you are looking for, its very easy to get overwhelmed as there is a lot of variety on offer. A few unplanned random items will still end up coming home either way but this will help you to stay focused and make better decisions.

Visiting the fair during Summer in pleasant weather is definitely a bonus, but if the weather is not playing ball there are stands indoors as well as outdoors. You will most likely be racking up quite a lot of steps, so wear something comfortable.

Given the size of the showground, the site map is a really helpful guide and tool to have on hand before you arrive. You can also refer to this at the end of the day, when you need to find stalls where you have left items to be picked up.

If you are travelling on public transport, and therefore unable to take big items with you, you can arrange a local courier service to deliver to your door from the fair. You can find the couriers number on the website if you want to ask for an approximate quote ahead of arriving. Driving is definitely recommended if possible!

TIPS & TRICKS

1. If you are a die hard antique hunter, buy an early bird wristband on the door which will grant you access from 6am rather than 9am. Little bit more pricey than the standard ticket but worth it for the exclusive early access!

2. Always ask for the best price, seems obvious but they are more willing to barter than you think, and knocking off a cheeky fiver never hurts.

3. Cash not complusory but always good to have some especially for the smaller items and as a good bargaining tool. They do have ATM’s on site so do not fear if you forget to take some out before you arrive, but there is a small charge to use!

4. Phone signal is pretty rubbish and there isn’t any WIFI, so bear in mind if you are planning on shopping for others not at the fair.

5. Take a tape measure, sellers will normally have them but sometimes you just have to act quick.

6. Try and park near an entrance gate to avoid lugging items around, or take a camping folding trolley.

7. Make sure to visit the stallholders on the outer margins of the fair, as they often have more reasonable costs and good bargains.

Enjoy!