IACF - Organiser of Antique Fairs in the UK

Next fair...

Fri - Sat Fair |

29 - 30 Mar 2024

NAEC Stoneleigh

NAEC, Stoneleigh, Kenilworth - CV8 2LZ

Next fair...

Fri - Sat Fair |

29 - 30 Mar 2024

NAEC Stoneleigh

NAEC, Stoneleigh, Kenilworth - CV8 2LZ

May 15, 2023

| IACF Team

Upcoming iacf Antiques Markets

Fri 29 Mar

- Sat 30 Mar, 2024

NAEC Stoneleigh

Thu 11 Apr

- Fri 12 Apr, 2024

Newark & Nottinghamshire Showground

Tue 23 Apr

- Wed 24 Apr, 2024

South of England Showground

Mon 29 Apr

- Mon 29 Apr, 2024

Newark & Nottinghamshire Showground

Antique and vintage fairs can be a treasure trove for collectors, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates the beauty and craftsmanship of bygone eras. But for some beginners, the experience can be overwhelming, confusing and a little bit daunting. However there’s no need to worry, here is a beginner’s guide to antique and vintage fairs that will help you make the most of your visit.

1. What is the biggest UK fair?

Antique fairs are held all over the world, from small local events to large international gatherings. Some of the biggest and most famous antique fairs are held in the UK, including Europe’s biggest, the iacf Antiques and Collectors Fair at Newark. This world-renowned fair in Nottinghamshire boasts up to 2,500 stands selling a vast range of antique and vintage items, it must be seen to be believed! Top tip for Newark, get there early on the first day to see the best items and shop the best bargains that the fair has to offer! iacf are also the organisers behind other fantastic antique and vintage fairs at Ardingly, Newbury and Shepton Mallet. Click here for more information.

An awesome image showing the sheer size and scale of iacf Newark Antiques & Collectors Fair

2. Where to Buy Tickets

Tickets for antique fairs can usually be purchased online or at the gate on the day of the event. Some fairs offer trade entry tickets that allow you to enter the fair before the general public, giving you a better chance to find unique and rare items. You can save money by buying your tickets early, fair organisers often offer a discount when buying in advance of the event. Click here for tickets to the iacf fairs we’ve mentioned above.

3. Have a Plan

Antique and vintage fairs can be sprawling affairs, with hundreds of vendors spread out over a large area. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and miss out on some great finds if you don’t have a plan. Before you go, make a list of the items you’re interested in, group them by type and prioritise them. This will help you focus your search and make sure you don’t miss anything.

A sunny day at the iacf Ardingly Antiques & Vintage Fair

4. Get there early to avoid disappointment

If you’re serious about finding unique and special items, it’s important to arrive early on the first day of the fair. Many dealers bring their best items to the fair and sell them quickly, so getting there early on day one gives you the best chance of finding something truly special.

5. Be Prepared to Haggle

Antique and vintage fairs are not like retail stores where the prices are fixed. Vendors expect to haggle, so don’t be afraid to make an offer that’s lower than the asking price. Just be respectful and reasonable in your negotiations. If the vendor won’t budge on the price, don’t be afraid to walk away. There could be plenty of other vendors who are selling similar items.

A view of some indoor stands at iacf Shepton Mallet Antiques Fair

6. Bring Cash

Many vendors prefer cash over credit cards, so be sure to bring plenty of cash with you. This will also help you stick to your budget, as it’s easy to get carried away and overspend when you’re using a credit or debit card.

7. Inspect the Items Carefully

Antique items can be fragile and may have hidden damage or flaws. Take your time to inspect each item carefully before you buy it. Pick it up (if you can) and look for cracks, chips, and signs of wear and tear. Ask the vendor about the item’s history and provenance, and make sure you’re comfortable with the answers before you make a purchase. If you decide to leave it but might come back later, be sure to take a picture and note down the stand number, it’s easy to lose track of where things are in a large fair.

A busy stall at iacf Newark Antiques & Collectors Fair

8. Dress Comfortably

Fairs can be crowded and involve a lot of walking, so travel light, make sure you wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. You don’t want to be weighed down by a heavy coat if the sun comes out, or shivering in a t-shirt if the weather turns cold. If it’s sunny don’t forget to apply your sunscreen! A packed lunch is also a good idea, a sunny day at a fair is a lovely spot for a quick picnic and you’ll save money too for more purchases.

9. Have Fun!

Above all, remember that antique and vintage fairs are supposed to be fun. Don’t stress too much about finding the perfect item or getting the best deal. Enjoy the atmosphere, chat with vendors and fellow shoppers, and appreciate the beauty and history of the items on display. Check out the iacf fair calendar to find one that suits you, we hope to see you at a fair soon!

Upcoming iacf Antiques Markets

Fri 29 Mar

- Sat 30 Mar, 2024

NAEC Stoneleigh

Fri 25 Oct

- Sat 26 Oct, 2024

NAEC Stoneleigh

Thu 11 Apr

- Fri 12 Apr, 2024

Newark & Nottinghamshire Showground

Tue 23 Apr

- Wed 24 Apr, 2024

South of England Showground

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