Region
To some, Lostwithiel may seem like any typical Cornish town. Small, beautiful, and close to the coast, it is already an attraction for those holidaying in the southwest of England. However, dig a little deeper and one will find a host of untold treasures here. This is quite the antiquing gem of the county, and anyone with an interest in all things antique and vintage will want to make their way to this once sleepy village.
Lostwithiel is known as the Antiques Capital of Cornwall due to the sheer number of antique shops like the Lostwithiel Antique Centre, crammed into such a small and lovely spot. The town has more antique shops to the yard than most, each with its own individual character. At the top of Fore Street, you will find Stephen Foy Antiques (a traditional fairly upmarket) and Dower House antique & Interiors (Period Georgian shop dating from 1740 selling antique furniture). Halfway down on Fore Street are Uzella Court Antiques (which features a profusion of small things in individual stalls - great for holiday shopping) and Déjà Vu Antiques (Unusual and eclectic items). Cross the river on the old bridge at the bottom of town, and a little way on the left after Lostwithiel's railway station you will find the Lostwithiel Antiques Centre, which is the most recent addition to Lostwithiel’s antique outlets (it features a huge range in a large space, includes garden furniture and outdoor antiques).
Lostwithiel is also the location of a twice-monthly antique and collector market, so if a visit here coincides with one of these fairs then you will find yourself in somewhat of an antiquing paradise. Being an old Georgian town, it was perhaps natural that this spot should celebrate its history and embrace everything old, charming and quaint that was already in existence here. Its focus on antiques and history has been a hit with the local people and has put it firmly on the antiquing map too.
For those in Lostwithiel at a time when the market is not open, there are plenty of collectible treasures to seek on the high street. Antique furniture enthusiasts should take a look at Anna Dianne Furnishings, Deja-vu Antiques and Books is an obvious stop off for bibliophiles and those who like to see a little bit of everything will enjoy the Lostwithiel Antique Centre.
If markets are more desired, Lostwithiel has more than one to offer. Since 1989, an antique fair has been running on the 2nd Sunday of every month, which is Cornwall's longest standing antique market and has a great selection of items for sale. In addition to the Lostwithiel Antiques Fair, the Lostwithiel Antiques and Collectors Market, a slightly more intimate though no less popular affair, is held on the 1st Saturday of each month in the Scout Hall. Here you'll find silver, jewelry, vintage hats, books, glass, militaria, copper, kitchenalia, ceramics, toys, small items of furniture and much much more. Whatever you enjoy from yesteryear, Lostwithiel can offer it and is a town that should not be missed.
Add a review