I think I've been watching too many of those Cash in the Attic style shows, because for the last good while I've had an insatiable desire to go visit an antiques shop and have a nosey, though I've always felt a bit silly. I mean, what do I know about antiques?!
The answer is zilch, nada...nothing. And I almost passed this lovely little place for fear of looking completely out of place (I don't know what antique-loving people look like, but let me tell you, they don't look like me), except for the fact that I listened to the voice of reason that happened to be my sister. Delusion happens to the best of us... "Aww, come on Lynne! Don't be so silly, just go in!" she exclaimed. Man, she can be mighty persuasive at times.
So, in we went. And I gotta tell you, I rather liked it. The lady shop keeper did keep a bit of an eye on us, but we ended up striking up a conversation about the character figurines in the cabinet, and she even told us we could open it and have a closer look. My sister and I shared a laugh, and explained that they'd probably all be broken within minutes if we were to do that. She laughed along, and we continued to examine the delightful little ornaments from afar, pointing out the Jemima Puddle Duck one, and explaining to her that my sister had always had an affiliation with this particular Beatrix Potter character, having been called after her on certain occasions when she was much younger.
The shop has lots of stunning chinaware, furniture, and home interiors, as well as jewellery and random little knick knacks. We spotted a Victorian kettle, a 120 year old book and a couple of strange animal antlers on plaques...very fetching!
If I was after an unusual gift, or an item of vintage furniture, I wouldn't hesitate to repay Christine and her antiques a visit. read more