Welcome back to my guide for buying antiques. In Part One, we looked at how to do your research and the different ways to shop – from fairs to auctions to independent shops. In this instalment, we’ll cover two things every budding treasure hunter needs to know: the art of negotiation and the very best places in Bath (and beyond) to go antiquing.
Mastering the Art of Haggling
Before we get into the “how,” it’s worth remembering that not every dealer wants to haggle. While many expect some negotiation, others prefer fixed prices – so always respect the seller’s approach.
That said, haggling doesn’t have to feel awkward. Even for us famously polite Brits, a few simple strategies can make the process smooth, respectful, and even enjoyable.
- Be friendly.
A genuine smile, a bit of conversation, and a compliment about the dealer’s collection can go a long way. Building rapport not only increases your chances of a better deal now, but it may also mean the dealer remembers you the next time something special comes in. - Go low – but not too low.
As a rule of thumb, aim for around 10–15% below the asking price. For smaller items under £20, I wouldn’t haggle at all. But for larger pieces – a chest of drawers, for example – it’s perfectly acceptable to start closer to 15% lower. Just avoid insulting offers, which could sour the relationship. - Bundle your purchases.
Dealers often offer a better “all-in” price if you’re buying more than one item. If you genuinely like a few pieces and can afford them, grouping your buys can lead to bigger savings. - Time it right.
At fairs and markets, the best bargains often come towards the end of the day when sellers are more eager to make sales (and less keen to pack items back into the van!). The risk, of course, is that someone else may snap up your chosen piece earlier.
Remember: negotiation should feel like a friendly exchange, not a battle. The goal is to reach a fair price that works for both of you.
Bath’s Best Antiquing Spots
Now that you know how to haggle, here’s where to put those skills into practice. Bath has an antiques scene that’s as charming and varied as the city itself.
- Bath Decorative Antiques Fair (5–7 March 2026)
A major event in the UK antiques calendar, this fair has been running for over 20 years. Expect a dazzling mix of decorative antiques, textiles, folk art, mid-century design, and garden antiques. It attracts serious collectors and casual browsers alike. The same organisers also host a fair in nearby Bruton every October – another worth pencilling in. - Bath Vintage & Antiques Market
Held on the first and last Sunday of each month at Green Park Station, this lively market has become something of an institution – even featuring in an episode of Antiques Roadshow. Expect everything from retro furniture to quirky collectibles. - Bartlett Street Antiques Centre
A bit of a hidden gem, this antiques centre houses a range of dealers under one roof. Known for fair prices and high-quality stock, it’s a brilliant place to explore if you’re after a piece with history but don’t want to risk inflated prices. - The Small Shop (London Road)
Tiny but mighty, this shop specialises in curiosities: fossils, taxidermy, and one-of-a-kind artefacts. Perfect if you’re on the hunt for something unusual and conversation-worthy. - Quiet Street Antiques
If you’re looking for something rare or truly special, head here. The shop is known for high-end antiques, from period furniture to decorative art. Prices reflect the quality, but if you’re serious about investing, it’s well worth a visit. - Antique Textiles & Lighting (34 Belvedere, Lansdown Road)
A Bath favourite, particularly for collectors with an eye for detail. The knowledgeable owner is highly respected, and the pieces – from period fabrics to exquisite lighting — are top quality. - Tetbury (a short drive from Bath)
Known as an antiques hotspot in its own right, this beautiful Cotswolds village is packed with antiques shops and centres. It’s the perfect excuse for a day trip: a mix of history, countryside, and treasure hunting. See my article on Lorfords here.
Final Thoughts
Bath is one of the UK’s best cities for antiquing – not only because of its excellent shops, fairs, and markets, but because the city itself is steeped in history. Whether you’re after a Georgian sideboard to suit a period home, or a quirky fossil to display on your desk, you’re bound to find it here.
So polish up your haggling skills, grab a notebook (or at least your phone notes), and start exploring. And if you discover any hidden gems of your own, don’t forget to share them – the best part of antiquing is the stories that get passed along with the finds.
