A few weeks ago, I visited Lorfords Antiques in Tetbury. They have a beautiful shop in the middle of the town with a stylishly curated collection of decorative and traditional antiques. It is a wonderful place to source antique garden items like decorative statues, huge ceramic pots and outdoor furniture. 

Lorfords also have two vast aircraft hangers outside the town at Babdown Airfield showcasing the stock of over 60 of the most exciting antiques and accessories dealers in the UK and Europe. 

With over 60,000 square feet of jaw-dropping displays and unique items it really is an incredible Aladdin’s Cave where you never quite know what you will find.  

There are more than 5,000 unique pieces in its hangars and 150 new items are added weekly so it’s worth going back regularly to check on stock.

Lorfords was founded by Toby Lorford over 20 years ago. Toby was the son of an antiquarian books dealer and got into antiques dealing as a young man. He sources from all over the world from Scandinavia to the Mediterranean. He’s a big fan of Paris flea markets.  He was an early adopter of online technology, and every piece is photographed and put on the site so it’s easy to browse and find what you want. The company also adapt pieces and make beautiful bespoke furniture, providing contemporary pieces as well as traditional antiques.

If you are going for a more traditional look, modern furniture can often look out of place in a period property so look for antique furniture instead. Antiques are usually beautifully made and considering the materials and craftmanship are good value compared to buying new. 

www.lorfordsantiques.com @lorfordsantiq