10 Best Vintage Fairs and Markets for Family Days Out

You’ll discover amazing treasures and create lasting memories when you explore Britain’s top vintage fairs and markets with your family, from the sprawling 1,700 stalls at Ardingly’s monthly extravaganza to the free outdoor browsing along Cheltenham’s beautiful Promenade. Don’t miss Sunbury’s twice-monthly market at Kempton Park Racecourse, where kids under 16 enter free, or London’s weekly Wimbledon fair with its vintage toys and dog-friendly atmosphere. These family adventures offer the perfect blend of education, entertainment, and treasure hunting that’ll keep everyone excited about your next vintage discovery expedition.

Ardingly International Antiques & Collectors Fair – A Treasure Hunter’s Paradise

When you step into the South of England Showground in Ardingly, West Sussex, you’ll discover one of the UK’s most exciting treasure hunts waiting for your family. With up to 1,700 stalls packed with antique furniture, sparkling glass bottles, vintage jewelry, and mysterious collectibles, there’s something magical around every corner that’ll catch your children’s curiosity.

You can explore both indoor and outdoor stands, perfect for different weather conditions. The fair runs monthly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with Wednesday offering budget-friendly £6 entry. The Ardingly fair operates consistently from January to November, providing families with regular opportunities to visit throughout most of the year.

Your kids will love spotting decorative ceramics, old silver pieces, and unique vintage items while learning about history. Professional dealers ensure quality finds, making this treasure hunt both educational and thrilling for young explorers seeking authentic antiques.

Sunbury Antiques Market – Early Bird Shopping at Kempton Park

If Ardingly’s monthly schedule doesn’t quite fit your family’s plans, you’ll find another fantastic adventure at Sunbury Antiques Market in Kempton Park Racecourse. This treasure-hunting paradise runs twice monthly on the second and last Tuesdays, making it Europe’s largest regular antiques market since 1979.

You’ll discover over 700 stalls packed with furniture, jewellery, vintage fashion, cameras, and books. Early birds can enter at 6:30am for £5, while free admission starts at 8:00am. Kids under 16 get free entry, and you won’t worry about parking fees either.

The market offers hot refreshments, toilets, and first aid facilities. Plus, it’s outside London’s charging zones, so you’ll save money on travel costs while hunting for amazing vintage finds together. The venue features indoor halls and outdoor areas, giving families plenty of covered space when weather becomes unpredictable.

Derwen Antiques Fair – Welsh Heritage and Craftsmanship

While London’s markets buzz with crowds, Derwen Antiques Fair offers your family a peaceful Welsh adventure that celebrates local heritage and craftsmanship. You’ll discover over 60 stalls showcasing authentic Welsh pottery, textiles, and regional memorabilia alongside diverse antiques like Persian carpets and French clocks.

Choose between two stunning venues in Carmarthenshire. Llandeilo Civic Hall provides town-centre convenience with easy parking, while the National Botanic Garden of Wales combines antique hunting with beautiful gardens your kids will love.

The Botanic Garden’s £12 weekend ticket includes five additional garden visits – fantastic value for families. At just £2 entry, this fair represents exceptional value compared to larger commercial events.

Mark your calendar for July 5th and December 6th at Llandeilo, or November 8-9th at the Botanic Garden. You’ll enjoy homemade refreshments and discover unique Welsh treasures in these family-friendly settings.

Cheltenham Antiques & Vintage Market – Free Family Fun on The Promenade

Located on Cheltenham’s beautiful tree-lined Promenade, this monthly antiques market brings free family entertainment right to the heart of Gloucestershire’s most elegant town.

You’ll find treasure-hunting opportunities every second Saturday from 9am to 4pm, with upcoming dates including September 13th, November 8th, and December 13th, 2025.

The pedestrian-friendly outdoor setting makes strolling with children easy and enjoyable.

You’ll discover vintage toys, books, clothing, and curiosities alongside decorative antiques, furniture, and collectables.

Kids love exploring the diverse stalls featuring everything from vinyl records to retro homewares.

Since admission’s completely free, you can return monthly without budget worries.

The market’s mix of antiques, crafts, and upcycled treasures provides educational fun while teaching children about history, craftsmanship, and sustainable shopping practices. For more information about stall availability or specific events, you can reach the organizers at 07830 038636.

Wimbledon Homes & Antiques Fair – London’s Hidden Gem

Moving from Gloucestershire’s elegant spa town to the bustling capital, Wimbledon Homes & Antiques Fair offers London families an affordable treasure-hunting adventure every Sunday at Prince Georges Playing Fields in Raynes Park.

You’ll love the budget-friendly £2 adult admission while kids under 16 enter free. The monthly outdoor market runs 9:30am-2:00pm with fascinating finds including vintage toys, antique furniture, musical instruments, and quirky collectables that’ll spark children’s curiosity.

Getting there’s easy – just ten minutes’ walk from Raynes Park station or drive via the A3 for free parking. Your four-legged family members can join the adventure too, as dogs on leads are welcome. For any questions about the event, you can reach the organizers at Sunbury Antiques Market on 01932 230 946.

Remember to bring cash for admission and purchases, plus enjoy hot refreshments while browsing this treasure trove comparable to Parisian flea markets.

Great Wetherby Racecourse Antiques Fair – Yorkshire’s Premier Outdoor Event

When you’re seeking Yorkshire’s most exciting treasure hunt, Great Wetherby Racecourse Antiques Fair delivers twice-yearly adventures that’ll captivate the whole family. This premier event transforms Wetherby Racecourse into a treasure hunter’s paradise, featuring indoor halls and hundreds of outdoor pitches brimming with antiques and collectibles.

You’ll love the family-friendly pricing—kids under 16 enter free when accompanied by adults. Saturday admission costs £5 (or £6 for early bird entry at 8am), while Sunday tickets are £5. The fair runs 9am-5pm Saturday and 9am-4pm Sunday.

Free parking eliminates transport worries, and on-site catering keeps everyone fed during your treasure hunt. Located in West Yorkshire, the venue provides easy accessibility for visitors traveling throughout the UK. With upcoming dates including January 24-25 and March 21-22, 2026, you can plan multiple family adventures throughout the year.

Essential Tips for Visiting Vintage Fairs With Children

Planning your family adventure at vintage fairs becomes much more enjoyable when you’re prepared for the unique challenges these bustling events present. Dress your children in bright colors so you can easily spot them among the antique stalls and crowds.

Pack essentials like water, snacks, and a screen (if applicable) in your backpack, plus take a photo of each child before entering.

Create a buddy system pairing each child with an adult, and designate a meeting spot near the entrance.

Write your name and phone number on a piece of paper and pin it inside your child’s shoe.

Practice what to do if separated – they should find fair staff immediately and never leave the grounds alone.

Arrive early for cooler weather, shorter lines, and better parking. Early arrival also allows more time for enjoyment before crowds increase and creates a less stressful environment for families.

Most importantly, keep little hands clean with sanitizer after touching vintage items.

What to Look for When Hunting for Family-Friendly Antiques

Four key strategies will transform your family’s vintage hunting experience from overwhelming browsing to successful treasure discovery.

First, prioritize safety by choosing antique accessories and smaller pieces you can display on high shelves away from little hands. Skip high-traffic furniture like coffee tables where kids play, and instead focus on side tables or console pieces for entryways.

Second, avoid trendy items like rustic tables and mason jars that’ll go out of style quickly. These carry inflated prices due to temporary popularity.

Third, create a shopping list before visiting venues to avoid impulse buying. Walk through your home first, identifying spaces needing character and envisioning appropriate styles. Engage children by encouraging them to research maker’s marks and brand names on interesting pieces they discover.

Finally, examine items for authentic vintage markers and maker’s marks rather than replicas, ensuring you’re investing in genuine pieces.

Budget-Friendly Strategies for Vintage Fair Shopping

Smart shopping at vintage fairs doesn’t have to drain your wallet when you arm yourself with the right money-saving strategies. Set your spending limit beforehand and bring only cash in small bills – this helps you negotiate better and avoid pesky ATM fees.

Research item values on eBay before you go, so you’ll spot fair prices versus overpriced treasures.

Arrive early for the best selection, but remember end-of-day shopping often brings enthusiastic-to-sell vendors. Pack essential supplies like rolling carts, bubble wrap, and protective bags to safely transport your finds without expensive vendor packaging fees.

Try offering a middle price – like $60 on an $80 item – and you’ll often meet somewhere around $70.

Bundle multiple items from the same seller for extra savings.

Build friendly relationships with vendors who might offer discounts or hold special pieces for future visits.

Planning Your Perfect Antique Fair Day Out

When you’re gearing up for an epic antique fair adventure, success starts with smart preparation that’ll make your family’s treasure hunt both fun and rewarding. Plan multiple days since you can’t explore everything in one trip. Book RVs, camping spots, or vacation rentals near the fairgrounds to maximize shopping time.

Dress everyone in comfortable shoes and layers – mornings can be chilly while afternoons warm up quickly. Pack totes, wagons, and snacks to keep the kids happy while browsing. Bring cash for bargaining and measuring tape for furniture finds. Many vendors also accept credit cards and mobile payments for added convenience.

Start early in Warrenton fields, then progress to Round Top and Carmine. The kids will love hunting for treasures like vintage boots and unique finds in the white tents scattered across the fields.

Last Words

You’ve got everything you need to start your vintage treasure hunt! Remember to bring snacks, comfortable shoes, and a small bag for your finds. Don’t forget to set a spending limit with your kids beforehand – it’ll make shopping more fun and less stressful. These amazing vintage fairs offer brilliant family adventures where you’ll discover unique treasures, learn about history, and create lasting memories together. Happy hunting at your next vintage fair adventure!