Adi Higham, whose full name is Adrian Higham, is a British antiques dealer known for his friendly personality and deep passion for old and rare objects. Born around the late 1960s, Adi grew up fascinated by how everyday items could hold stories from the past.
From a young age, he loved exploring markets and car boot sales. His first real trade happened when he bought an old bicycle and sold it for ten times the price. That single moment sparked his love for buying and selling — and he’s never looked back since. Adi’s early curiosity about mechanical things, toys, and furniture later shaped his entire career.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Adrian Higham |
| Profession | Antiques Dealer & TV Personality |
| Famous For | BBC’s The Bidding Room |
| Business | Hoof Brocante, Kent, UK |
The Career of Adi Higham: From Dealer to TV Fame
Adi Higham began his full-time antiques journey when he was just 21 years old. Instead of choosing a traditional office job, he decided to follow his passion. Over time, he became known for trading unique and unusual pieces — from vintage toys and bicycles to furniture and mechanical objects. He had a sharp eye for items others often ignored, and that made him stand out in local markets and fairs.
His shop, Hoof Brocante, located on the Kent–East Sussex border, soon became a treasure trove for collectors and antique lovers. The shop features everything from rare mechanical items to quirky vintage finds.
Adi’s charm, humor, and honesty soon caught the attention of TV producers. He became one of the expert dealers on BBC’s The Bidding Room, where sellers bring in antiques and try to strike a deal with professionals. His warm personality and genuine love for old objects made him a favorite among viewers.
| TV Show | Role |
|---|---|
| The Bidding Room (BBC One) | Expert Dealer |
| Antiques Road Trip (guest) | Dealer / Guest Appearance |
Adi Higham’s Personal Life, Interests & Values
Behind his cheerful smile, Adi Higham is a man with a big heart and strong values. He lives in Kent with his partner, Tara Franklin, who also shares his love for antiques. Together, they manage Hoof Brocante and attend fairs across the UK.
Adi has openly spoken about his struggles with health and weight, showing that even those in the spotlight face personal challenges. His story inspires many — not just because of success, but because of his resilience. He believes in honesty, kindness, and the beauty of second chances — values that reflect in his work and personality.
Outside of antiques, Adi loves classic toys, mechanical gadgets, and old vehicles. He once said, “I love things that make people smile, that bring back memories of childhood.” His fascination with nostalgia is what gives his work its unique charm
What Fans & Collectors Can Learn from Adi Higham
Adi’s story is full of lessons for collectors, entrepreneurs, and anyone chasing a dream. He teaches that success isn’t just about money — it’s about passion, patience, and persistence.
He encourages people to trust their instincts when buying antiques. Not every deal will be perfect, but each one teaches something new. His philosophy is simple: “If you love it, someone else will too.”
Key lessons from Adi Higham’s career:
- Look for value in overlooked items — the hidden gems.
- Build relationships with other dealers and collectors.
- Keep learning; every trade is a lesson.
- Don’t fear failure — every mistake helps you grow.
By following these principles, Adi turned his curiosity into a successful lifelong career.
Adi Higham’s Legacy & Impact on the Antiques Industry
Adi Higham has helped make antiques fun and approachable for everyone. Before TV fame, antique dealing was often seen as a quiet, old-fashioned trade. But Adi’s humor and friendly nature brought new life to it, attracting younger audiences to shows like The Bidding Room.
He showed that antiques aren’t just dusty objects — they’re pieces of history that connect generations. His approach has inspired countless new dealers to join the trade, proving that passion and honesty still matter in business.
His shop, Hoof Brocante, remains a hub for collectors and those curious about old-world craftsmanship. Whether it’s a 1920s toy or a Victorian lamp, Adi finds joy in discovering and preserving the stories behind each piece.
FAQs About Adi Higham
1. Who is Adi Higham?
Adi Higham is a British antiques dealer and TV star known for his appearances on BBC’s The Bidding Room. He owns Hoof Brocante in Kent.
2. What inspired Adi Higham to start dealing antiques?
His passion began when he sold a bicycle at a young age for a big profit. That sale sparked his lifelong interest in trading unique items.
3. Is Adi Higham married?
Adi is in a relationship with Tara Franklin, who also works in the antiques trade. They share both personal and business lives together.
4. What type of antiques does Adi Higham love most?
He’s drawn to mechanical toys, vintage vehicles, and unusual collectibles — especially items with nostalgic or quirky value.
5. What can we learn from Adi Higham’s journey?
His life shows that following your passion, staying humble, and valuing stories behind objects can turn any dream into a lifelong career.
Conclusion – The Takeaway from Adi Higham’s Story
Adi Higham’s life reminds us that passion and authenticity can take you far. From a young boy selling a bicycle to a well-known face on British television, his story is proof that when you follow what you love, success follows naturally.
Through hard work, curiosity, and a heart full of enthusiasm, Adi turned simple trades into meaningful connections. His love for antiques isn’t just about buying and selling — it’s about preserving history, sharing joy, and celebrating the beauty in every forgotten piece.
If you ever visit his shop or watch him on TV, you’ll notice one thing — Adi Higham isn’t just an antiques dealer; he’s a storyteller who brings the past back to life.
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