Antique programmes have a real knack for mixing history, real people, and drama. People find out their family heirlooms are worth thousands of pounds and old antique furniture that once looked end-of-life is made to look brand new.
Interesting stories, craftsmanship to be admired, and genuine human emotion make these antique programmes a great watch, so here are a few of the best antique programmes on TV (in the UK).
Why are antique programmes so popular?
Simply put, these shows can actually get really exciting not knowing what’s coming next.
One minute someone is told that the antique vase they believed was a late 18 century rare piece, is actually a common 21st century one that’s worth pennies, and the next a person is almost in tears because the painting in their hallway they wanted to sell at a carboot turns out to be a rare gem.
It’s moments like these that make these shows a mix of history, surprise, and real human emotion.
The top antique programmes on UK TV
Antiques Roadshow
Antiques Roadshow has been around for ages, and it’s still one of the best. People turn up with all sorts that they’ve found in the attic, or they might be family heirlooms or bits of furniture they’ve picked up at car boot sales, and the experts tell them if they’re sitting on a goldmine or if the piece is worth nothing.
It’s a great show with a down-to-earth feel. Normal people bring in lots of different antiques, and the experts are always spot on. And when a person finds out, they’ve hit the jackpot on something they weren’t holding their breath on, the reactions are priceless.
Salvage Hunters
This is all about the hunt. Drew Pitchard, the host, goes around the UK looking for antiques in people’s houses, old barns or sheds, digging through things that people have hoarded for years. The great one about this, is you never know what he’s going to find.
Drew has a real eye for spotting potential, even when some of the antiques look like they’re end of life, he sees the antique as what it will look like once he is done with it after he has restored what he needs.
It’s also great fun watching him haggle over prices - he knows what he’s doing, but he’s always fair about it. Again, you truly appreciate his eye in these situations, because often, he starts with prices, most wouldn’t even consider.
The Repair Shop
A hidden gem of a show this one, it’s not just about finding out how much stuff is worth - it’s about giving old, broken things a new lease of life.
These skilled craftsmen and women take items that look beyond saving before people throw them in the skip and restore with so much care. They’re often pieces that are family heirlooms that they havent been able to keep on top with the care.
What makes it special is the sentimental side of this program. It’s more than just money - it’s about the story and the memories of these items. There’s a genuine look of joy and relief on the persons face when they see them back in top condition.
Final thoughts
If you’ve not watched any antique programmes before, they’re definitely worth it.
They’re a good mix of history, stories, and a bit of drama – and you never know, they might just get you looking at your own antiques in a new light.
Like this blog? Check out our blog on the most expensive items that were sold on the Antiques Roadshow
