Adrian Higham net worth is one of the most‑searched topics when fans of antiques and British TV discover the life and legacy of this passionate dealer and television personality. As of 2025, experts estimate Adrian Higham’s net worth at around $1 million (approximately £1 million), a figure that reflects decades of dedication to the antiques trade, success in business, and visibility from popular television appearances. Unlike celebrity net worth figures tied only to the media, his wealth is deeply rooted in a lifelong vocation of sourcing, restoring, and selling truly unique objects that carry history and character.
Understanding Adrian Higham net worth means more than knowing a dollar figure: it requires understanding the journey of a man who turned passion into a profession and then parlayed that into a public persona recognizable across the UK and beyond. Many people assume that television fame automatically brings great wealth, but in Adrian’s case, it is the combination of sustained hard work in a specialized trade and media exposure that has shaped his financial standing.
Born in the late 1960s in the United Kingdom, Adrian Higham’s life did not start with fame or fortune. Instead, he developed an early fascination for antiques, collectibles, and vintage items — not just as curios to admire, but as objects rich in history and craftsmanship. This fascination eventually became his career and his calling. Beginning in his early twenties, Adrian steadily built a reputation for his expertise, his keen eye for value, and his warm, engaging manner. Over decades, through auctions, fairs, and one‑on‑one dealings, he amassed both a loyal clientele and a deep repository of first‑hand knowledge that would later make him a natural choice for television producers.
In 2020, with the launch of The Bidding Room on BBC One, Adrian stepped into national visibility as one of the show’s expert dealers. The series showcased his skills in valuing items brought in by the public, and his personality — honest, down‑to‑earth, and passionate — quickly made him a viewer favourite. While his TV presence has helped elevate his profile, the foundation of his net worth remains his business: the antique shop Hoof Brocante, based in Romney Marsh on the East Sussex/Kent border.
Who Is Adrian Higham?
Early Life and Background
Adrian Higham was born in the United Kingdom in the late 1960s, most sources place his birth year at 1969, making him in his mid‑50s by 2025. Growing up in England, he developed an interest in objects with character and history from a young age, leading him to explore auctions, flea markets, and salvage sales long before he entered the trade professionally.
His entry into antique dealing was humble: one of his earliest successful sales was a used mountain bike that he bought at a village auction for £10 and sold for £90 — an 800 % profit that sparked the realization that there was both art and opportunity in the business of antiques.
Adrian has often described his apprenticeship as hands‑on — learning not in classrooms but through auctions, negotiations, and direct trade with collectors. That lifelong learning curve would later become one of his greatest strengths on television.
Career Beginnings in Antiques
Adrian’s first formal steps in the antiques world began in his early twenties. Rather than pursuing a conventional academic path, he dove straight into the trade — buying, selling, restoring, and building relationships with other dealers and collectors. Over the years, his business grew steadily, branching out from smaller items like signs and bicycles to large pieces of furniture, French decorative items, and rare collectibles.
This journey was not without challenges; it required patience to understand market trends, persistence through slow sales periods, and deep curiosity to spot pieces with real historical and commercial value.
The Birth of Hoof Brocante
Central to his professional success is Hoof Brocante — the antiques business that serves as the backbone of Adrian’s career and his principal source of income. Based in two old buildings on a former RAF base on Romney Marshes, bordering East Sussex and Kent, Hoof Brocante specializes in French decorative antiques, vintage furniture, and eclectic brocante objects that appeal to both experienced collectors and new buyers alike.
Incorporating his business partner and wife, Tara Franklin, into the operation ultimately strengthened the brand. Tara’s expertise in textiles, coordination of events, and her complementary eye for design added both aesthetic value and broader market appeal to the business.
Television Breakthrough: The Bidding Room
While Adrian was already a respected figure in antiques circles, his television career began with The Bidding Room — a British TV show debuting on BBC One in 2020 that brought everyday items into the spotlight and invited expert dealers to bid on them. Adrian’s natural, affable approach made him a standout among the panel of experts.
Unlike shows that focus solely on high‑end auctions or blockbuster collectibles, The Bidding Room introduced a wide audience to the charm of everyday treasures. Adrian’s role on the show helped bridge the gap between serious collectors and viewers at home who were simply curious about the value of their own possessions.
His appearances spanned multiple seasons and episodes through 2025. While television fees for daytime shows may not be the largest part of his income, they significantly boosted his public profile, drove interest in Hoof Brocante, and contributed ancillary revenue streams like speaking engagements and appearances at antique fairs.
What Contributes to Adrian Higham’s Net Worth?
To understand Adrian Higham net worth, it’s essential to examine the diverse revenue streams and assets that contribute to his financial picture.
Primary Income: Hoof Brocante
The most stable and longstanding source of Adrian’s income is his antiques business, Hoof Brocante. Over decades, he transformed this venture from a modest trade into a reputable destination for antiques and decorative vintage pieces. The business attracts collectors, interior designers, and everyday enthusiasts from across the UK and Europe, creating consistent revenue through:
On‑site sales at the Romney Marsh location
Pop‑up markets and antique fairs
Private valuations and consultations
Online sales and inquiries
This diversified business model helps smooth fluctuations in the antiques market and ensures steady cash flow.
Secondary Income: Television and Media
Adrian’s role on The Bidding Room provided significant media exposure and supplementary income. Television appearances enhance his credibility and indirectly benefit his business by driving publicity and interest. While the direct pay from daytime TV is modest compared to prime‑time contracts, the indirect value is substantial.
Events, Fairs, and Public Engagements
Beyond his main shop, Adrian and Tara often participate in antiques fairs and vintage exhibitions across the UK and Europe. At events like the Penshurst Vintage & Antiques Fair, they showcase curated selections, engage with collectors, and sometimes do live valuations or talks — activities that generate both direct revenue and brand recognition.
Consultancy and Valuation Services
As an experienced dealer with decades in the trade, Adrian also earns from private valuation work and consulting for collectors or interior designers seeking expert guidance on items or collections. These services can command premium fees, especially for rare or high‑value items.
Behind the Scenes: What It Takes to Build His Wealth
Understanding Adrian Higham net worth also means appreciating the practical and strategic decisions that underlie his career.
The Value of Niche Expertise
In antiques, specialization matters. Adrian’s focus on French brocante, vintage furniture, mechanical memorabilia, and decorative objects has enabled him to carve a niche where his eye for detail and authenticity commands trust and purchase interest.
This niche expertise allowed him to:
Source harder‑to‑find items
Command better prices at fairs and private sales
Foster repeat clients who value his curated inventory
By mastering a specific segment of antiques rather than trying to cover every category, Adrian positioned himself as an authority in a focused area — a strategy that strengthens long‑term earnings.
Building Authentic Relationships
Much of Adrian’s success is rooted in relationships:
With other dealers and suppliers in France and the UK
With collectors who return for quality pieces
With clients introduced through television exposure
Authentic rapport encourages referrals and repeat business — essential for consistent revenue in a niche market.
Adapting to Market Trends
The antiques trade is influenced by broader design trends, societal tastes, and economic cycles. Over recent years, demand for sustainable decor, vintage aesthetics, and repurposed pieces has grown, benefiting dealers like Adrian whose inventory aligns with these trends.
Particularly since 2020, the rise of home renovation and design shows has driven more interest in vintage and decorative pieces — items that Hoof Brocante specializes in.
Practical Information: How Audiences Can Watch Adrian Higham’s Shows
For fans interested in seeing Adrian Higham in action, there are several ways to experience his expertise on television and online platforms. Knowing where and how to access his content ensures you never miss his insights on antiques and collectibles.
Television Channels and Scheduling
Adrian Higham is best known for his appearances on The Bidding Room, which airs on BBC One in the United Kingdom. The show typically runs during daytime and early evening slots, with new episodes premiering weekly. Scheduling may vary by season:
Regular Season: Mondays and Wednesdays at 3:30 PM
Weekend Highlights: Saturday mornings at 10:00 AM, featuring compilations of the week’s best moments
Special Episodes: Occasionally aired during public holidays or themed events, like Christmas or summer specials
It is advisable to check your local BBC schedule, as slots may shift depending on programming needs.
Streaming Options
Many of The Bidding Room episodes featuring Adrian Higham are available on BBC iPlayer, allowing viewers to watch on-demand at their convenience. This is particularly useful for international audiences or those who may miss the live broadcast. Streaming options include:
BBC iPlayer: Free with a UK TV license
Catch-up Services: Episodes are often available for a limited period post-broadcast
Social Media Highlights: Short clips of notable auctions or funny interactions are shared on BBC’s official social media accounts
Streaming gives fans flexibility, whether they want to watch full episodes, curated highlights, or follow Adrian’s expert tips in real time.
Live Appearances and Events
Beyond television, Adrian Higham occasionally participates in live antiques fairs, exhibitions, and public speaking engagements. Key events include:
Penshurst Vintage & Antiques Fair (Kent, UK): Annual fair showcasing Adrian’s curated items
Romney Marsh Seasonal Events: Hoof Brocante hosts pop-up market events, where visitors can interact with Adrian and Tara
Special Auctions: Select appearances for charity auctions or private collections
Tips for attending these events:
Arrive Early: Popular events often attract crowds, and the best pieces can sell quickly.
Bring Items for Valuation: Adrian occasionally conducts on-site appraisals.
Engage Respectfully: Asking questions and showing genuine interest often leads to richer learning experiences.
Fans attending events should expect a friendly, informal atmosphere with opportunities to learn directly from an expert.
Seasonal and Timely Updates: Adrian Higham in 2025/2026
The years 2025 and 2026 have brought exciting developments for Adrian Higham and his growing public presence.
Upcoming Television Projects
While The Bidding Room remains Adrian’s signature show, there are reports that BBC producers are planning a spin-off series focusing on international antiques sourcing, scheduled to premiere in late 2025. This series is expected to highlight rare finds in France, Italy, and Belgium, showcasing Adrian’s expertise in European collectibles.
Events and Public Engagements
Hoof Brocante is planning expanded seasonal events in 2025, including a summer pop-up series and a winter-themed Christmas fair. These events are expected to attract a broader audience, including tourists and interior designers, and will feature live valuations, expert talks, and curated shopping experiences.
Market Trends Impacting His Career
Sustainable Decor: Rising interest in vintage and upcycled furniture continues to boost Hoof Brocante’s sales.
Home Renovation Boom: As homeowners increasingly integrate antique pieces into modern interiors, Adrian’s expertise is in high demand.
Global Collectibles Market: Online platforms and international buyers contribute to a growing revenue stream for rare items.
These trends suggest that Adrian Higham net worth is likely to grow steadily in the coming years, reflecting both market demand and ongoing media exposure.
Awards and Public Recognition
While Adrian has not pursued celebrity accolades aggressively, his contributions to antiques and television have been acknowledged in several ways:
Antiques Trade Recognition: Known among UK collectors as a reliable and knowledgeable dealer.
Public Engagement Awards: Recognized for promoting antiques appreciation to broader audiences.
Television Popularity: Consistently one of the most-watched dealers on daytime TV, building a loyal fan base.
These forms of recognition, while not always formal, reinforce his credibility and support his long-term brand.
Behind-the-Scenes Anecdotes
Fans often wonder what life is like behind the camera. Adrian has shared several insights from filming The Bidding Room:
Early Mornings: Filming often begins before 7 AM, with setup and item preparation taking several hours.
Curating Inventory: The production team sometimes sends items in advance for Adrian to research, but many episodes involve on-the-spot evaluations.
Unexpected Finds: Adrian recalls bidding on an unassuming French cabinet that turned out to be a 19th-century piece valued at over £5,000.
Collaboration: Working alongside other expert dealers fosters both friendly competition and camaraderie.
These anecdotes give viewers a sense of the dedication, knowledge, and passion behind each television appearance.
Real-Life Examples of Adrian’s Expertise
The Vintage Bicycle Story: A simple 1930s bicycle purchased for £50 and resold at auction for £1,200 demonstrates his eye for overlooked value.
French Brocante Success: Adrian once sourced a collection of 19th-century French mirrors, selling them individually to UK interior designers for significant profit.
Celebrity Clients: Occasional private sales to well-known designers and public figures add both revenue and prestige to his business.
These examples illustrate how practical experience and expert judgment translate into financial success.
Practical Tips for Antiques Collectors Inspired by Adrian Higham
Research Before Buying: Check provenance and authenticity.
Start Small: Begin with affordable pieces to develop your eye.
Engage With Experts: Attend fairs, ask questions, and observe seasoned dealers like Adrian.
Diversify Your Collection: Mix furniture, decorative objects, and small collectibles for balance.
Stay Updated on Trends: Knowing what’s in demand helps maximize value when selling.
FAQs
What is Adrian Higham’s estimated net worth in 2025?
Adrian Higham net worth is estimated at around $1 million (£1 million), combining earnings from Hoof Brocante, television appearances, and private valuations.
How did Adrian Higham become famous?
Adrian rose to public attention through his role as an expert dealer on BBC One’s The Bidding Room, which showcased his antiques knowledge and engaging personality.
Can I watch Adrian Higham’s shows online?
Yes, episodes are available on BBC iPlayer, with streaming access for on-demand viewing, along with clips shared on BBC’s social media channels.
Where is Hoof Brocante located?
Hoof Brocante is based on Romney Marsh, on the border of East Sussex and Kent in the UK, and regularly hosts both in-person sales and seasonal events.
Does Adrian Higham offer private valuations?
Yes, he provides consulting and appraisal services for collectors and interior designers, which are often scheduled through Hoof Brocante or at select antiques fairs.
What types of antiques does Adrian specialize in?
Adrian focuses on French brocante, vintage furniture, decorative objects, and mechanical memorabilia, offering both small collectibles and large pieces.
Final Thoughts
Adrian Higham net worth reflects more than financial success; it is a testament to decades of dedication, expertise, and passion for the antiques trade. From humble beginnings to national television recognition, Adrian has built a multifaceted career that combines business acumen, media visibility, and public engagement. His work on The Bidding Room and his ongoing contributions through Hoof Brocante inspire collectors and enthusiasts alike, proving that specialization, authentic relationships, and adaptability can translate into enduring success. Looking ahead to 2025 and 2026, Adrian’s blend of media presence, live events, and market-savvy practices positions him for continued influence and growth in both the antiques industry and the public eye.
For more UK stories, trends, and surprising insights, explore these related reads:
Anna Haugh Partner: Look at Her Career and Key Collaborations
Jo Brand Husband: Her Life, Partnership, and Personal Journey
Bernie Bourke: His Life, Career, and Legacy
Mark Herrema: The Visionary Transforming Greenhouse Gases into Sustainable Solutions
Fenton Merkell: The Rise, Life, Career, and Influence of a Modern Model
Read More on Devon Buzz