Adrian Higham Net Worth 2026: Biography, Career, and Wealth of the BBC Antiques Expert

Have you ever wondered about the folks who spot hidden treasures on TV antiques shows? Adrian Higham, often called Adi, is one of those sharp-eyed experts who brings excitement to the screen. Known for his appearances on BBC programs like The Bidding Room, he’s built a solid reputation in the antiques world. This article dives into Adrian Higham biography and net worth, sharing his story in a simple way that anyone can enjoy.

Adrian Higham grew up in England with a natural pull toward old things. Born in September 1967, he spent his childhood exploring flea markets and auctions, sparking a lifelong love for antiques. His family background isn’t widely shared, but it’s clear that his early interests shaped his path. By age 21, he took his first real step into the trade, buying a mountain bike for £10 at a local auction and flipping it for £90. That quick win hooked him, leading him to leave his day job and dive full-time into dealing.

Those early days weren’t easy. Adrian started small, renovating old signs and selling them for profit. He learned the ropes through trial and error, building skills in spotting value where others saw junk. His passion for French antiques grew, often traveling across the Channel to source unique pieces. This hands-on start laid the foundation for a career that would blend business savvy with a genuine love for history.

Adrian’s big break came when he turned his antiques passion into a thriving business. He co-founded Hoof Brocante, a shop on the East Sussex and Kent border, specializing in French brocante items like galvanised metal, vintage furniture, and collectibles. The store, housed in old RAF buildings on Romney Marsh, became a go-to spot for enthusiasts. Adrian and his wife Tara run it together, blending his dealing expertise with her skills in textiles.

Television boosted his profile. In 2020, Adrian joined The Bidding Room on BBC One, where dealers bid on items brought by the public. Hosted by Nigel Havers, the show highlighted Adrian’s keen eye and friendly banter. He appeared in multiple seasons, though he missed one due to health issues. He also featured on The Vintage French Farmhouse, competing to find and flip treasures in France. These roles made him a familiar face to antiques fans, showcasing his knowledge of toys, steam-powered items, and more.

Over three decades, Adrian’s milestones include expanding his business internationally and inspiring others in the trade. His story shows how a chance purchase can lead to lasting success, even through ups and downs like market shifts.

Adrian’s personal life has seen both joy and hardship. He married his first wife early on, but she sadly passed away in 2003, a loss that deeply affected him. He later found love with Tara Franklin, a textile expert who shares his antiques passion. They live in East Sussex, with a second home on the Normandy borders in France. Tara helps run Hoof Brocante, making them a strong team both at home and in business.

Outside work, Adrian enjoys traveling, animals, and motivational talks. He’s open about his interests in health and wellness, often sharing tips from his own experiences. In 2025, he faced a tough neighbor dispute that led to legal issues, but it was resolved in his favor. He described it as a challenging time but focused on moving forward with Tara’s support.

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Adrian Higham’s estimated net worth stands at around £1 million in 2026. This figure comes from sites like CelebrityNetWorth, which base estimates on public data from his business and TV work. Keep in mind, these are approximations, not verified numbers.

His wealth mainly stems from Hoof Brocante, where he buys and sells antiques sourced from France. TV appearances on The Bidding Room and other shows add to his income through fees and increased shop visibility. Over the years, smart flips, like that early bike sale, have built his fortune steadily. He also earns from guest speaking and related ventures. Adrian’s approach is practical: spot value, buy low, sell high, all while enjoying the hunt.

Here are some fun bits about Adrian: He once collapsed on a ferry due to health concerns but turned it into motivation for change. He’s a fan of anything that “puffs steam or smoke,” like vintage toys. Adrian missed a season of The Bidding Room after a back injury that kept him in hospital for nine months. He and Tara often travel to France for stock, blending work with adventure. In 2025, he stepped back from social media to focus on private life, showing his grounded side.

Adrian matters because he makes antiques accessible and fun. Through TV, he’s inspired many to explore collecting, showing it’s about passion, not just profit. His resilience, from personal losses to health battles, encourages others to push through tough times. In the antiques world, he’s a reminder that expertise comes from experience, influencing new dealers and fans alike. His legacy is one of quiet success, built on knowledge and heart.

Adrian’s estimated net worth is £1 million, drawn from his antiques business and TV career. These figures are estimates from public sources.

He gained fame as a dealer on BBC’s The Bidding Room, starting in 2020. His expertise and personality won over viewers.

Key wins include building Hoof Brocante into a successful shop, starring on multiple TV seasons, and overcoming health challenges to continue his work.

As of 2026, Adrian runs Hoof Brocante in East Sussex with his wife Tara. He’s alive and focusing on his business after stepping back from TV and social media.

Adrian has faced weight issues and a back injury, but he’s worked on his wellness and recovered. He’s shared his journey to inspire others.

Hoof Brocante is on the A259 near Brookland, in old RAF buildings on Romney Marsh, East Sussex/Kent border.

He’s married to Tara Franklin, who helps with the business and shares his love for antiques.

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