Treasure Hunting 101: How to Spot Quality Vintage Pieces

Let’s be honest… nothing beats the buzz of uncovering a hidden gem. From a quirky retro lamp that steals the spotlight in your living room, to a one-of-a-kind necklace with a story to tell, Bygone Times is bursting with treasures. But how do you know when you’ve found the real deal?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you. Here are our top tips for spotting quality vintage and antiques while you’re browsing the stalls (and maybe even showing off your new-found expertise to your friends)

Check the condition of your new found treasure

Scratches, scuffs and a bit of “lived-in” charm? That’s character. Wobbly legs, cracks, or dodgy repairs? Maybe less so. Always give things a once-over, open the drawers, check the edges, and give chairs a little wiggle. A good piece should feel solid and well-loved, not fragile – we pride ourselves on stocking quality goods but its always best to check!

Ask for the story – a little mystery makes pieces more interesting!

Vintage isn’t just about the look; it’s about the tale behind it. Where’s it from? Who owned it? Was it made by a known maker? Many stallholders at Bygone Times know their stock inside out, and they’re more than happy to share the backstory. It might just make you fall in love with something even more.

Spot the style – trends come back around, don’t you know…

Think of it as a fashion show through time. Art Deco loves bold lines and glamour, Mid-Century Modern is all about clean shapes and wood tones, and Victorian, look for intricate detailing everywhere. The more you browse, the easier it becomes to spot the era at a glance – you could even play a guessing game with your friends and family whilst browsing the stalls!

Feel the quality especially with clothing and furniture items

Run your hand across the wood, check for solid craftsmanship, look for stamps or hallmarks. Hand-stitched fabric, genuine leather, or a heavy piece of pottery usually means you’ve found something built to last. If it feels a bit too “lightweight” or “new,” trust your instincts.

Chat with the experts – our friendly and helpful stall holders!

Here’s a secret: our stallholders love a good chat. Most of them are collectors themselves and can spot a reproduction a mile away. One trader told us: “If it feels well-made and looks like it’s been loved, it usually has a good story behind it.” Take their advice, it’s like getting a crash course in antiques, for free! Bargain hunt here you come!

Stay fuelled, there’s a lot to take in, our Café does great coffee

Treasure hunting can be thirsty work. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. The Cotton Café has had a little makeover, shiny new signage, a brand-new coffee machine, and a fresh coffee blend that smells heavenly. Perfect for a mid-browse pit stop (and maybe a slice of cake too… go on, you’ve earned it).

Are you feeling ready to hunt down some treasures at Bygone Times?

With over 500 stalls to explore, Bygone Times is basically vintage-lover heaven. Next time you visit, put these tips to the test, you never know what gems you’ll uncover. Have fun!