Hidden Gems You Might Miss at Bygone Times (But Shouldn’t!)

Hidden Gems You Might Miss at Bygone Times (But Shouldn’t!)

Bygone Times enjoys a diverse audience and customer base, and whether you’re a seasoned antique hunter or a first-time visitor, our antiques centre at the Grove Mill can be a bit of a mazy whirlwind. With 85,000 square feet and six floors dedicated to history, nostalgia, vintage and collectables, it’s easy to be lost in a sea of curiosity and overlook some of our hidden treasures and undiscovered mystique.

With a sterling reputation in the industry, Bygone Times is Lancashire’s first choice for antiques, collectables, vintage, relics and one of the best days out our county has to offer! But we’re so much more than just antiques.

To ensure you get the very most out of your Bygone Times experience, we’ve rounded up some of the hidden gems for Lancastrians and tourists alike to look out for.

Fuel Your Treasure Hunt at The Cotton Café

With long, winding and mysterious corridors, it’s easy to get swamped in the thrill of the chase, but believe us, antique fatigue is very real! One of our most underrated offerings is The Cotton Café, a cosy and relaxing recharging station packed with warming brews and hot drinks, delicious seasonal bakes and hearty meals.

Whether your bargain hunt is dependent on a morning coffee to ignite your experience or a traditional afternoon cuppa to celebrate a successful find, The Cotton Café is the perfect sanctuary to sit back, take in the atmosphere and plan your next move over a slice of homemade heaven.

A Leading Lancashire Vintage Boutique

Bygone Times may best be known for its antiques, furniture and collectables, but among our stallholders comprised of local businesses and independent traders includes a significant number of vintage fashion suppliers. From eternal denim names such as Levi’s, Wrangler and Lee to authentic mod and punk counter cultural looks, classic menswear like tweed jackets and retro knits, or reliable favourites like Dr Martens, shop Vintage Clothing at Bygone Times!

A Walk Through History: The War Museum

Although visitors and locals are understandably being wowed by our not-so-hidden Soviet T-34 Tank guarding our front doors, Bygone Times’ walls contain a hidden and profound tribute to the past.

The Bygone Times War Museum is a specially curated collection of military memorabilia, uniforms, WW1 & WW2 artefacts and relics, all housed within a re-created bunker. A sombre, fascinated and educational space that offers a quiet and personalised moment of reflection away from our main shopping aisles, the Bygone Times War Museum offers an immersive history lesson on some of the bleakest battles of British history.

Other Gems to Discover at Bygone Times

The Penny Arcade

Bygone Times gives visitors the chance to relive their childhood with a variety of vintage slot machines and classic mechanical games that remain fun to this day!

Rare Vinyl

One of the most popular vintage and popular trends in the UK, Bygone Times is awash with original vinyl and beautifully restored record players that provide the authentic analogue sound to experience your favourite artists and musical genres.

The Bygone Times Garden Centre

Packed with seasonal and perennial plants and flowers, stoneware and ornaments, the Bygone Times Garden Centre offers a wonderful experience for outdoor shoppers too!