Region
Only an hour from the vibrant heart of London and 12 miles from Gatwick Airport, the Ardingly International Antiques and Collectors Fair stands as a shining beacon for antiques lovers not only in the UK but around the world. With its strategic location and a short 90-minute drive from Dover, Ardingly Fair proudly waves its banner as the premier IACF event in the South of England.
But Ardingly's appeal transcends national boundaries. Its geographical proximity to the Channel acts as a magnet, attracting an eclectic mix of suppliers from continental Europe and even further afield, including Asia and North America. This diverse convergence of suppliers and buyers gives the show a distinctive global aura, making it a cosmopolitan hub for antique treasures.
The Ardingly Antiques Fair covers a vast area and houses up to 1,700 stalls, each a small universe of historical and artistic wonder. Visitors are ushered into a world of enchantment where fine antique furniture whispers tales of bygone eras, exquisite ceramics showcase craftsmanship and renowned European decorative pieces add a touch of continental elegance.
Set against a backdrop of tranquil pastoral landscapes, the fair offers a serene retreat from the vibrant energy of the booths. It's a place where the charm of traditional antiques, including fine china, silverware, jewelry and classic paintings, coexists harmoniously with the allure of stamps, coins, postcards and the ever-growing vintage community. A testament to the diversity of the antique world, Ardingly welcomes lovers of rustic artifacts and unique decor with open arms.
With a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor stalls and a convenient mid-week schedule, Ardingly Antiques Fair extends a warm invitation to all. Whether you're a casual browser with a love of vintage gems or a professional trader on the hunt for exquisite pieces, Ardingly promises a rich tapestry of experience and discovery.
At its heart, the Ardingly International Antiques & Collectors Fair is a living symphony of history, artistry and diversity. It's a place where every artifact tells a story, every stall is a treasure trove, and every visit is a journey through time and culture. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, Ardingly offers a canvas of possibilities just waiting to be explored.
Roland Gruschka
18th May 2015 at 10:47Der Ardingly Antiques Fair ist riesig: Kilometerweit Stände, fast 2.000 Händler – einer der größten Antikmärkte, ich je gesehen hat. Händler aus ganz Europa decken sich hier mit erstklassigen Antiquitäten ein. Ich erbeutet ein Portrait von Queen Victoria, Keramiken der Manufaktur Wedgwood, einen typisch britischen „Sutherland Table” und einen antiken Spielautomaten.
Melanie Barnes
12th November 2015 at 19:29If you are in the South East – or indeed a bit further a field – Ardingly is well worth a visit. IACF run antique fairs and markets all over the country, so there may even be one happening nearer to you. It is held on a Tuesday and a Wednesday, and the entrance fee is £20 for the Tuesday (which allows entrance on a Wednesday too) and £5 if you just go on a Wednesday. I would recommend you look at the schedule on their website to check for dates, as Ardingly does not run every month.
There are lots of people that buy for trade at the market, so Tuesday is it’s busiest day. I have only ever been on a Wednesday, as that’s what suits me best. There is still plenty to look at – and buy! There is almost too much lovely stuff, and I don’t think I’ve ever managed to make my way round it all yet. Plus on a Wednesday you can get a better deal, as some stallholders want to sell what they have bought, so are willing to drop their prices.