Discover Adrian Higham net worth in 2026, from antiques trade to BBC’s The Bidding Room success.
Quick Facts About Adrian Higham
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Adrian “Adi” Higham |
| Birth Year | 1969 |
| Age (2026) | 56-57 years old |
| Nationality | British |
| Profession | Antique Dealer, Television Personality |
| Famous For | BBC’s The Bidding Room |
| Business | Hoof Brocante |
| Location | Romney Marshes, East Sussex/Kent border |
| Spouse | Tara Franklin (current), First wife deceased (2003) |
| Net Worth (2026) | Estimated £1 million ($1.3 million) |
| Career Start | 1990 (age 21) |
| Specialty | French decorative antiques, vintage furniture |
Adrian Higham Net Worth 2026: How Much Is the Antiques Expert Worth?
Adrian Higham net worth in 2026 stands at approximately £1 million, equivalent to around $1.3 million. This impressive wealth accumulation stems from multiple revenue streams that the antiques dealer has cultivated over his three-decade career in the industry.
The foundation of Higham’s financial success lies in his thriving antiques business, Hoof Brocante, which he operates alongside his partner Tara Franklin. The business specializes in French decorative antiques, vintage furniture, art, interior design pieces, and classic brocante items. Located in two historic buildings on a former RAF base in Romney Marshes, the shop has become a destination for collectors and interior designers seeking unique European treasures.
His appearance on BBC’s The Bidding Room significantly boosted his public profile and consequently his earning potential. While television appearances may not constitute his primary income source, the exposure has undoubtedly driven more customers to his physical shop and enhanced his reputation within the antiques community. The show’s popularity has transformed him from a respected regional dealer into a nationally recognized antiques expert.
Beyond direct sales and television work, Higham likely generates income through antique fairs, valuations, consultations, and potentially speaking engagements. His expertise in 18th and 19th-century French antiques positions him as a sought-after authority in this specialized market segment.
Adrian Higham Antiques Dealer: A 30-Year Journey in the Trade
Adrian Higham’s journey into the antiques world began with a serendipitous purchase that would change his life trajectory. At age 21, he bought a mountain bike at a local village auction for £10 and subsequently sold it for £90. This tenfold profit margin provided not just financial gain but an exhilarating rush that sparked his passion for buying and selling.
What started with renovating and selling old signs evolved into a comprehensive antiques business. Higham initially focused on furniture but gradually expanded his interests to include mechanical objects such as motorcycles, vintage cars, steam engines, and toys. His philosophy has always been open-ended—there’s virtually nothing in the antiques world he would avoid if it presents value and interest.
Over three decades, Higham developed a keen eye for identifying undervalued items and understanding market trends. His specialty in French decorative antiques came from spending over 20 years living in France, where he cultivated relationships with suppliers and deepened his understanding of French craftsmanship and design history. This immersive experience gave him unique insights that differentiate him from many British dealers who source French antiques secondhand.
His approach to dealing combines historical knowledge with commercial acumen. He doesn’t just see antiques as commodities but as tangible pieces of history, each with stories to tell. This perspective resonates with customers who appreciate the narrative and provenance behind their purchases.
Adrian Higham The Bidding Room: BBC Stardom and Television Career
Adrian Higham’s breakthrough into mainstream recognition came through his role on BBC One’s daytime show The Bidding Room, which premiered in 2020. Presented by actor Nigel Havers, the show features members of the public bringing their antiques and valuables to be appraised by expert auctioneer Simon Bower before facing a panel of five competing dealers.
Higham quickly became a standout figure on the program, appreciated by viewers for his warm personality, genuine enthusiasm, and extensive knowledge. His calm demeanor combined with sharp bidding skills made him a fan favorite. Unlike some television personalities who adopt personas for the camera, Higham’s authenticity shines through—what viewers see on screen genuinely reflects his real-life character.
The show’s format allows dealers to compete for items they believe hold value or align with their business specialties. Higham’s willingness to bid on unusual and eccentric items—from vintage signs to obscure mechanical gadgets—showcased his eclectic taste and adventurous approach to dealing. His passion for teddy bears and quirky collectibles added a charming dimension to his television presence.
According to interviews, Higham loved the experience of being on The Bidding Room, particularly the messages and visits from fans who discovered his shop through the show. He emphasized that appearing on television required no acting on his part—he simply remained himself, which audiences found refreshing and relatable. The show arrived at an opportune moment in his career, providing a platform to share his passion with a broader audience.
Adrian Higham Earnings: Breaking Down Revenue Streams
Understanding Adrian Higham’s earnings requires examining the multiple channels through which he generates income as both an antiques dealer and media personality.
Hoof Brocante Sales: The primary revenue source comes from his antiques business. Dealing in French decorative antiques, furniture, and collectibles can yield substantial profit margins, particularly when sourcing items directly from France and selling to British customers who value the authenticity and unique aesthetic. High-quality French antiques can command significant prices, especially among interior designers and affluent collectors.
Television Appearances: While BBC daytime show fees typically range from modest to moderate amounts, the real value lies in the promotional exposure. Appearing on The Bidding Room elevated Higham’s profile, driving customers to his shop and increasing his credibility as an expert.
Antique Fairs and Markets: Experienced dealers like Higham participate in prestigious antique fairs where they can make substantial sales. These events attract serious collectors willing to invest in quality pieces, offering opportunities for high-value transactions.
Consultations and Valuations: With over 30 years of experience, Higham likely provides valuation services, consultations for collectors, and possibly interior design advice, all of which contribute to his overall earnings.
Social Media and Digital Presence: While not likely a major revenue source, his Instagram presence (@hoof.antiques_brocante) helps maintain customer engagement and drive online and in-person sales.
The antiques trade operates differently from conventional retail, with dealers often purchasing items for a fraction of their eventual selling price. Success depends on expertise, negotiation skills, network connections, and the ability to identify emerging trends before they become mainstream.
Adrian Higham Wealth: Assets and Business Holdings
Beyond his estimated £1 million net worth, Adrian Higham’s wealth encompasses several tangible and intangible assets that contribute to his financial security and business success.
Business Property: Hoof Brocante operates from two old buildings located on a former RAF base in Romney Marshes. While the ownership structure isn’t publicly disclosed, occupying commercial property in this unique location represents either a valuable asset or a strategic business lease.
Inventory: Antiques dealers maintain significant value in their stock. Higham’s inventory of French decorative antiques, furniture, vintage textiles, motorcycles, and collectibles likely represents hundreds of thousands of pounds in value. This inventory serves as both potential income and appreciating assets.
Professional Reputation: In the antiques world, reputation constitutes invaluable currency. Higham’s 30-year track record, combined with his BBC exposure, means he can command premium prices and access better sourcing opportunities than less established dealers.
Business Partnership: His collaboration with Tara Franklin creates a stronger business entity. Franklin’s expertise in vintage French textiles and linens complements Higham’s broader antiques knowledge, allowing Hoof Brocante to offer comprehensive French antiques coverage.
Network and Relationships: Decades in the trade have built an extensive network of suppliers, particularly in France, and a loyal customer base including collectors, interior designers, and retail customers. These relationships represent sustainable competitive advantages that drive ongoing business success.
Adrian Higham Hoof Brocante: The Heart of His Business Empire
Hoof Brocante stands as Adrian Higham’s crowning achievement—a physical manifestation of his passion, expertise, and entrepreneurial vision. Located in Brookland on the East Sussex/Kent border along the A259 from Rye, the shop occupies two historic buildings on a former RAF base, creating an atmospheric setting that enhances the antiques shopping experience.
The business specializes in French decorative antiques, art, interior design elements, furniture, clothing, and classic brocante items. “Brocante” refers to secondhand goods and antiques in French, and Higham’s shop embodies this spirit by offering eclectic collections that range from elegant furniture to whimsical collectibles.
What sets Hoof Brocante apart is its distinctive inventory. Customers might discover vintage motorcycles alongside antique French oil jars, hand-painted signs near delicate textiles, or unusual pedal cars displayed with refined period furniture. This eclectic mix reflects Higham’s personal collecting philosophy—if something has character, history, or charm, it deserves consideration regardless of category.
Tara Franklin plays a crucial role in the business, bringing her specialized knowledge of antique French textiles, linens, and vintage clothing. Her expertise complements Higham’s broader focus, allowing the shop to serve diverse customer needs from serious furniture collectors to those seeking authentic French linens and textiles.
The shop’s location contributes to its appeal. The Romney Marshes area attracts tourists and antiques enthusiasts, while the former RAF base setting adds historical context and unique character. Visitors often describe the shop as eccentric yet well-priced, offering quality items at fair market values rather than inflated tourist prices.
Following Higham’s appearance on The Bidding Room, Hoof Brocante experienced increased foot traffic from fans of the show. Many visitors mentioned seeing him on television, creating opportunities for personal interactions that strengthen customer relationships and enhance the shopping experience beyond mere transactions.
Adrian Higham Career: From Auctions to Television Fame
Adrian Higham’s career trajectory illustrates how passion, persistence, and adaptability can build lasting success in a specialized industry.
Early Years (1990-2000s): Beginning at age 21 with that pivotal mountain bike purchase, Higham immersed himself in auctions, markets, and the antiques trade. These formative years involved learning through experience—making mistakes, developing his eye, understanding pricing, and building supplier relationships. He focused initially on signs and furniture before expanding into broader categories.
Establishing Hoof Brocante (2000s-2010s): The decision to specialize in French antiques came from spending over two decades in France. This period allowed him to source items directly, understand regional differences in French craftsmanship, and establish supply chains that gave him competitive advantages. Opening Hoof Brocante provided a permanent base for his business and a showcase for his carefully curated collections.
Television Breakthrough (2020): Joining The Bidding Room represented a career-defining moment. At an age when many dealers might rest on established reputations, Higham embraced the opportunity to reach new audiences. His natural television presence required no artifice—he simply shared his authentic enthusiasm for antiques with viewers.
Current Status (2020s-Present): Today, Higham balances his established business with his television profile. While he maintains a relatively low media profile outside of professional contexts, he continues operating Hoof Brocante and participating in the antiques trade. His recent focus on health and wellness demonstrates personal growth beyond career considerations.
Throughout his career, Higham has remained true to his core values: genuine passion for antiques, fair dealing with customers, and appreciation for the historical and artistic merit of objects beyond mere commercial value.
Adrian Higham Biography: The Man Behind the Antiques
Adrian Higham was born in 1969 in the United Kingdom, making him 56-57 years old in 2026. Raised in a working middle-class family, he developed an early appreciation for craftsmanship, history, and the stories embedded in objects.
His formal education details remain private, but his real education came through hands-on experience in the antiques trade. Beginning at age 21, he learned by doing—attending auctions, studying items, researching provenance, and gradually developing the expertise that would define his career.
The defining personal tragedy in Higham’s life came in 2003 when his first wife passed away. This devastating loss profoundly affected him, triggering emotional struggles and significant weight gain. At his heaviest, Higham reached 36 stone (approximately 504 pounds), a condition exacerbated by what he describes as a consuming disorder and the grief of losing his spouse.
In 2015, the severity of his health situation became undeniable when he collapsed on a ferry due to his weight. This frightening incident served as a wake-up call. Two years later, in 2017, he participated in the Prudential Ride London Fixing Challenge, receiving personalized fitness training, dietary guidance, and lifestyle counseling. The challenge culminated in completing the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100, a demanding 100-mile cycling route through London and Surrey hills.
His health journey has continued, with social media posts from 2023-2024 documenting significant weight loss progress. He described losing over four stone and characterized this transformation as “life-changing,” crediting fitness expert Eddie Abbew for support. This ongoing commitment to health demonstrates remarkable resilience and personal growth.
Beyond his professional accomplishments and health challenges, Higham is known for his warm, down-to-earth personality. He describes himself as a “larger-than-life character with a love of teddy bears,” revealing a softer side that contrasts with his substantial business acumen. This authenticity—the willingness to be genuinely himself—has endeared him to television viewers and customers alike.
Adrian Higham Wife Tara Franklin: Partnership in Life and Business
Tara Franklin represents both Adrian Higham’s life partner and essential business collaborator. While details of their relationship timeline remain private, they have built both a personal relationship and professional partnership centered around their shared passion for French antiques.
Franklin brings her own specialized expertise to Hoof Brocante, focusing on antique French textiles, linens, and vintage French clothing. This specialization complements Higham’s broader antiques knowledge, creating a more comprehensive offering for customers. Textiles represent a distinct expertise area requiring understanding of fabrics, techniques, periods, and preservation—knowledge that Franklin has cultivated through years of dedicated focus.
Beyond her textile expertise, Franklin is described as a skilled hostess, suggesting she plays a significant role in customer relations and the overall shopping experience at Hoof Brocante. In the antiques trade, personal relationships with customers often determine success, and the ability to create welcoming environments where customers feel comfortable exploring and purchasing represents a valuable skill.
The couple’s partnership appears built on complementary strengths: Higham’s broad antiques knowledge, television presence, and buying acumen combined with Franklin’s specialized textile expertise and customer relations skills. This division of labor allows them to cover more ground than either could alone while maintaining the personal touch that distinguishes independent dealers from larger competitors.
Their relationship also provided Higham with crucial personal support following the loss of his first wife and during his health challenges. Having a partner who shares his professional passion while supporting his personal well-being has likely contributed to both his business success and his ongoing health transformation.
Public information does not confirm whether Higham and Franklin have children together, nor are details available about any children from Higham’s first marriage, reflecting their preference for maintaining family privacy despite his public profile.
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The Future of Adrian Higham’s Antiques Empire
Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, Adrian Higham’s career appears positioned for continued success, though the antiques industry faces evolving challenges and opportunities.
The traditional antiques market has experienced shifts as younger generations show different collecting preferences than previous demographics. However, there’s also growing appreciation for sustainable, unique items with history and character—precisely what dealers like Higham offer. His French antiques specialization may benefit from ongoing interest in European design aesthetics.
His television exposure through The Bidding Room, even if not currently airing new episodes, provides lasting benefits. Viewers who discovered him years ago continue visiting his shop, and reruns or streaming availability keep his profile visible to new audiences. This media presence distinguishes him from competitors without similar platforms.
The combination of physical retail at Hoof Brocante with potential online expansion could provide growth opportunities. While Higham has maintained a relatively traditional business model focused on in-person sales, strategic digital integration could expand his customer base while preserving the authentic shopping experience that defines his brand.
His ongoing health transformation also positions him for a more active, energetic future. The commitment to wellness demonstrated through his weight loss journey suggests a renewed vigor that could fuel business expansion, additional television opportunities, or other ventures.
Ultimately, Adrian Higham has built something increasingly rare: an authentic, sustainable business based on genuine expertise and passion rather than trends or gimmicks. This solid foundation, combined with his established reputation and continued dedication, suggests his influence in the antiques world will endure well into the future.
Whether appraising a quirky mechanical toy, sourcing elegant French furniture, or sharing his enthusiasm with television audiences, Adrian Higham exemplifies how expertise, authenticity, and passion can create both financial success and meaningful work. His journey from that first £10 mountain bike to a million-pound net worth demonstrates that in specialized fields, dedication and genuine love for the craft remain the ultimate competitive advantages.
