Where should people shop for antiques in England?
Our Shop & Ship trips through England focus on the Cotswolds, a region rich with antique treasures and vibrant markets. While some US importers focus exclusively in the North, our curated route taps into areas where variety, quality, and charm collide.
Ask six American antique dealers where to shop in England, and you’ll get six different answers. Many tourists default to London, but there's so much more to explore (and buy!) outside the city. If you want to go beyond the predictable and discover truly unique pieces, it’s time to expand your antique-hunting map.
The Best Way to Shop for Antiques in England
The smartest strategy? Hit the big fairs.
The highest concentration of antique fairs runs from May through October, and these events are where seasoned buyers and interior designers go to score both high-end treasures and hidden gems.
Keep in mind—not all fairs are created equal.
Some of the larger, decorative arts fairs showcase jaw-dropping pieces with provenance (think: “belonged to the Duke of Something’s first wife”)—but also come with shiny price tags. They’re stunning, inspiring, and aspirational... but probably not where you’ll find the best bargains.
Where to Find the Deals
For more budget-friendly finds and quirky discoveries, focus on:
Boot sales (car boot sales)
Smaller regional weekly antique markets
Large seasonal fairs that bring in thousands of dealers from across the country
Two key organizers to follow:
AS Fairs (Arthur Swallow Fairs)
These umbrella groups host some of the biggest and most beloved antique events in England.
Antiques + Artisans: A New Era of Curated Fairs
Lately, a new generation of thoughtfully curated fairs has been stealing the spotlight. These events blend antiques with British artisan goods, making them a dream for both treasure hunters and design lovers.
Our top picks:
These fairs are where you’ll find the chic crowd—and the perfect place to pick up that "Where did you get this?" kind of gift.
Found Something You Love? Here’s How to Get It Home
From delicate china to rustic farmhouse tables, getting your treasures back to the U.S. is easier than you think. Read our full blog post on shipping from England →