Adrian Higham
Adrian Higham is a name that resonates in both the world of antiques and British television. Known for his sharp eye for valuable items and his charismatic presence on shows like The Bidding Room, Higham has become one of the most respected figures in the antiques industry. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a household name is a testament to his passion, hard work, and resilience.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in 1969, @Adrian Higham grew up with an innate curiosity about the past, developing an early interest in antiques and collectibles. Raised in the United Kingdom, he was not from an artistic family but was drawn to objects with history and character. As a young man, Higham frequented local markets, auctions, and antique fairs, which sparked a lifelong passion for the world of rare finds and collectibles.
His first significant step into the world of antiques occurred when, in his early twenties, he made a purchase at a village auction—a mountain bike for £10. When he sold it for £90, it was his first glimpse into the potential of flipping items for profit. This small, yet impactful transaction marked the beginning of his career in the antiques industry. It showed him that he had a unique ability to spot items with hidden value and ignited his desire to build a business around this skill.
Adrian Higham Career in Antiques
Over the years, Adrian Higham built his career around his passion for collecting and selling antiques. He established Hoof Brocante, an antique dealership situated in the scenic Romney Marshes in the East Sussex and Kent border. The business specializes in a wide range of items, including vintage furniture, French antiques, mechanical toys, and motorcycles. His shop’s eclectic inventory reflects his diverse interests, and over time, he built a solid reputation as one of the best antiques dealers in the UK.
Higham’s career as an antiques dealer grew steadily, but it was his entry into the world of television that truly elevated his public profile.
Rise to Fame on The Bidding Room
Adrian Higham became a household name when he appeared on the BBC One show, The Bidding Room. The show, which first aired in 2020, brings in everyday people who have interesting items to sell. They present their items to a group of expert dealers, including Higham, who offer their expertise, valuations, and bids. The unique premise of the show allowed viewers to witness Higham’s expert knowledge, charming personality, and ability to engage with both sellers and viewers.
His easy-going demeanor and expert understanding of the antiques trade made him a fan favorite. He quickly became one of the standout figures on the show, known for his genuine enthusiasm for rare finds and his ability to strike fair and thoughtful deals with the sellers. Higham’s success on the show solidified his place as a respected figure in both the world of antiques and television. His time on The Bidding Room also gave him a platform to educate viewers about the value of items that might otherwise be overlooked.
Adrian Higham Net Worth
As of 2025, Adrian Higham’s net worth is estimated at around £1 million (approximately $1 million). This impressive sum has come from a combination of his work in the antiques business, his television appearances, and his other ventures.
Sources of Income
Adrian Higham’s wealth can be attributed to several key sources of income:
- Antiques Dealing: Through his business, Hoof Brocante, Higham continues to buy and sell valuable antiques. His expertise allows him to identify rare and valuable pieces, which are sold at a premium.
- Television Appearances: Higham’s role on The Bidding Room has provided him with substantial earnings. Television appearances are often lucrative, and Higham’s popularity on the show likely earned him a significant salary.
- Public Engagements and Auctions: Adrian also earns money through his involvement in antique auctions, private valuations, and public speaking engagements, where he shares his knowledge and experiences with others.
Overall, Higham’s ability to blend his passion for antiques with his media presence has enabled him to build a solid financial foundation. His net worth reflects his hard work, expertise, and ability to adapt to different platforms, from traditional business dealings to television fame.
Adrian Higham Personal Life: Relationships and Family
First Marriage and Loss
Adrian Higham’s personal life has been marked by both love and loss. His first wife, whose identity remains private, tragically passed away in 2003. The loss of his first wife had a profound impact on Higham, leaving him with emotional scars that affected both his personal life and his health.
Despite the tragedy, Higham eventually found love again and rebuilt his life, both personally and professionally.
Current Partner: Tara Franklin
Adrian Higham is currently married to Tara Franklin, a key figure in both his personal and professional life. Tara is not only his wife but also his business partner. Together, they run Hoof Brocante, and their partnership has been instrumental in the success of the business. Tara’s keen eye for antiques and her understanding of the market has helped the couple build a solid reputation in the world of antique trading.
The couple shares a love for history, design, and rare collectibles, and they continue to work together to curate unique collections for their customers. Their relationship is one of mutual respect, with Tara playing an active role in both the day-to-day operations of the business and in sourcing antiques for their store.
Health Challenges and Personal Struggles
Adrian Higham’s life has not been without its struggles. After the death of his first wife, Higham experienced a period of emotional turmoil, which led to significant weight gain. At his heaviest, Adrian weighed over 36 stone (approximately 504 pounds). His health was seriously compromised, and this period marked one of the most challenging times in his life.
However, Higham made a remarkable transformation by focusing on his health and making lifestyle changes. His decision to participate in the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 cycling challenge was a turning point. He adopted a healthier lifestyle, lost weight, and began prioritizing fitness. His journey toward better health is an inspiring example of resilience and self-discipline.
Legal Challenges
In addition to health issues, Higham faced a stressful period due to a legal dispute with a neighbor, which culminated in an arrest and a Stalking Protection Order. Although the order was later dropped, this experience took a toll on Adrian and contributed to his nervous breakdown. Despite the adversity, Higham worked through these personal challenges and continued to remain a respected figure in both the antiques and television worlds.
Adrian Higham Legacy and Influence
Adrian Higham’s legacy extends beyond his business success and media presence. His story is one of resilience, perseverance, and a passion for history and collectibles. Through his work, he has inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in the antiques trade, and his television appearances have educated viewers about the value of preserving history through objects.
His ability to navigate personal setbacks, including the tragic loss of his first wife and significant health challenges, has made him an enduring symbol of overcoming adversity. Today, Higham continues to be a beloved figure in the world of antiques, while his popularity on The Bidding Room ensures his place in the hearts of television viewers across the UK.
In conclusion, Adrian Higham is more than just an antiques dealer or a television personality—he is a person who has built a life based on passion, dedication, and a deep love for history. His net worth, successful career, and the legacy he continues to build are testaments to his enduring influence in the world of antiques and beyond.
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