I am often asked where to shop for antique or vintage finds and the answer is Kemptons (Sunbury Antiques Market). Opening at 6.30 am, this is a full day out as there is so much to see. You will find a mixture of gems including; antique furniture, gold and silverware, jewellery, ceramics, kitchenallia, vintage and vintage fashion, garden ephemera, clocks, paintings, cameras books and much, much more! Not only does the market attract those interested in the Antiques trade but also to general collectors, prop buyers, interior and exterior designers. I haven’t found anywhere else that matches its diversity. My favourite London antiques market is Alfies, London’s largest indoor market for antiques, vintage, collectables & 20th century design.
In my experience, the most popular items that people tend to go for are ‘old skool’ chairs, armoires, mirrors, armchairs and lighting. Below are just a few pictures from the markets gallery. I love the cute wooden shoe fillers below, we used some similar vintage items in a shoot we did a few months back – take a look as it may give you some ideas…
A few tips; Sunbury Antiques Market is very busy and as you will be on your feet all morning, it might be best to go with a packed lunch, a decent amount of cash so that you are ready to do a deal, and finally, a large van, as you will need to take your purchases away with you. Also, if you are buying furniture, make sure you have taken measurements of how big the item needs to be.
A few facts: the market has been running for over 30 years and is now recognised as one of Europe’s premier antiques markets. It attracts well over 700 stallholders with 350 stalls throughout the indoor halls and over 350 stalls (all on hard standings) in the outside drive in area. PARKING AND ENTRY IS FREE at Sunbury Antiques Market!
