Adrian Higham: A True Original in the World of Antiques and Television
Adrian Higham — or as fans fondly call him, Adi — has built a life around passion, craftsmanship, and storytelling. Best known as one of the charming dealers on BBC1’s hit show The Bidding Room, Adrian has captured hearts with his warm personality and deep knowledge of antiques. But behind his friendly on-screen demeanor lies a story of perseverance, love, and the art of finding beauty in forgotten treasures.
Let’s explore Adrian Higham’s remarkable journey — from his early beginnings and personal triumphs to the wisdom he’s gained over decades in the antique trade.
1. Early Curiosity That Turned into a Calling
Adrian Higham grew up in East Sussex, where his fascination with antiques began at a young age. By 21, he had already stepped into the business, buying and selling vintage pieces that told stories from the past.
-
He started out focusing on furniture, learning how craftsmanship and design reveal the spirit of different eras.
-
Over time, his curiosity expanded to include collectibles, vintage toys, cars, and motorcycles.
-
What set him apart wasn’t just his buying skills — it was his respect for history and his ability to see meaning in every object.
His early years taught him a key lesson: antiques aren’t just items — they’re time capsules that connect people to moments long gone.
2. The Bidding Room: Where Passion Met Television
When Adrian joined The Bidding Room in 2020, he wasn’t just another dealer — he was a breath of fresh air. The show invited everyday people to bring in their unique items, which experts like Adrian would bid on.
His approachable personality and genuine excitement made him a standout among the cast. Viewers were drawn to how he handled each object — not just for its market value but for the stories it carried.
-
His honesty and enthusiasm resonated deeply with audiences.
-
His detailed explanations helped demystify the world of antiques for newcomers.
-
He became a trusted face — someone who treated every seller and object with respect.
Through the show, Adrian introduced a new generation to the joy of discovering history through objects, proving that antiques could be fun, accessible, and full of life.
3. Partnership and Family: The Heart Behind His Work
Behind every successful person is a strong support system — and for Adrian, that’s his wife, Tara Franklin. Together, they run Hoof Brocante, a delightful antique shop nestled in the scenic Romney Marshes of East Sussex.
The shop reflects both of their personalities — warm, eclectic, and full of charm. It’s not just a place to buy and sell; it’s where visitors can explore history, artistry, and creativity all under one roof.
Their partnership shows that shared passion can strengthen both love and business:
-
They collaborate on curating items that reflect their shared taste.
-
Their teamwork blends Adrian’s expertise with Tara’s creative vision.
-
Hoof Brocante has become a beloved destination for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
While much of Adrian’s personal life remains private, it’s clear that family means everything to him. His loved ones have been a constant source of encouragement throughout his career.
4. Age and Experience: A Legacy Built Over Time
Born in 1969, Adrian Higham has spent more than 30 years building his expertise in the antiques world. At 55, his experience gives him an unmatched understanding of craftsmanship and authenticity.
But what truly stands out is his humility. Despite his success, Adrian continues to learn, grow, and adapt to changing times.
-
He values mentorship and often encourages newcomers to pursue their passion with patience.
-
His approach to life and business is calm, measured, and rooted in wisdom.
Adrian’s career reminds us that experience isn’t about how long you’ve worked — it’s about how much you’ve learned along the way.
5. Resilience: How He Overcame Life’s Toughest Moments
Adrian’s life hasn’t been without hardship. After the loss of his first wife, he faced serious health challenges and significant weight gain. Those years were difficult, but they also revealed his strength and resilience.
Determined to turn things around, Adrian took part in the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 in 2017 — a 100-mile cycling challenge that symbolized his commitment to better health and personal growth.
He embraced lifestyle changes that helped him not only regain physical fitness but also mental clarity and confidence.
His journey serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to take control of your life and make positive changes.
6. The Business Mind: Success Beyond Television
While Adrian’s television career brought him fame, his true success lies in his long-term dedication to the antiques business.
-
His shop, Hoof Brocante, continues to attract collectors from all over the UK.
-
His expertise covers a wide range of vintage and collectible categories.
-
He’s known for his fair dealing, transparency, and deep respect for the craft.
Adrian’s estimated net worth of around $1 million reflects decades of hard work, smart decisions, and steady dedication. But for him, wealth isn’t measured only in numbers — it’s in the joy of sharing his passion and inspiring others.
Also Read : Isabelle Farage: The Inspiring Journey of Nigel Farage’s Daughter Making Her Own Mark
7. The Lasting Impact: A Story That Keeps Inspiring
What makes Adrian Higham’s story so inspiring is his ability to blend passion, professionalism, and authenticity. Whether on TV or in his shop, he brings people closer to history — not through textbooks, but through tangible objects that tell stories of craftsmanship, creativity, and human connection.
His legacy isn’t just about antiques; it’s about preserving meaning in a fast-changing culture.
Here’s what we can all take away from his journey:
-
Follow your passion even when the road feels uncertain.
-
Treat people and objects with respect — everything has a story worth hearing.
-
Keep learning — expertise is built over time, not overnight.
-
Balance work and love — success means little without the people who share it with you.
-
Stay resilient — even setbacks can become the foundation for new growth.
Final Thoughts: A Timeless Figure with a Modern Spirit
Adrian Higham’s journey shows that success doesn’t happen in a straight line. It’s a mix of curiosity, perseverance, love, and a deep appreciation for life’s finer details. From East Sussex to national television, he has built a career defined by integrity and passion.
As fans continue to follow his story, one thing remains certain — Adrian Higham isn’t just an antique dealer; he’s a storyteller who keeps history alive, one item at a time.