Treasure Hunting Tips: My Go-To Spots Across London
One of the questions I get asked most on socials is: “Where do you find your jewellery?”
The answer is a mix of places, from antiques shops to flea markets, online auctions and the occasional hidden gem I stumble across by chance. My sourcing spots change from week to week and that’s how I uncover the most interesting and unique pieces.
Here are some of my favourite places to hunt for vintage jewels in and around London, with a few tips to make the most of each trip.
Alfies Antiques Centre
📍 Marylebone, London
Alfies is a treasure hunter’s dream. With over 70 antiques dealers across four floors, you’ll find everything from Victorian mourning brooches to mid-century furniture. The jewellery selection is excellent, with plenty of antique gemstone rings and bold statement pieces.
For jewellery, check out:
Gillian Horsup, known for iconic vintage pieces with real character
Tings Jewellery Box, a great source for unusual, colourful designs
Minoo’s Fine Jewellery, beautifully curated fine pieces in gold and gemstones
When you need a break, the rooftop café is a great spot to pause before diving back in.
Tip: Some traders are not open every day, so check ahead if there is someone specific you want to visit.
Grays Antiques
📍 Mayfair, London
Grays is Alfies’ smaller and more jewellery-focused sister. It is the place to go for serious antique finds, from Edwardian diamond rings to bold 1970s gold designs.
It is also home to one of my favourite dealers, Spectrum Antiques, known for their exceptional selection and eye for detail.
Tip: If you are after something specific, check the dealer listings online so you can go straight to the right specialist.
Battlesbridge Antiques Centre
📍 Battlesbridge, Essex
Just outside London, Battlesbridge is worth the trip. Spread across several historic buildings with more than 70 dealers, it is a full-day treasure hunt.
For jewellery, visit:
The Old Granary for a solid mix of antique and vintage pieces
Jackie’s Jewellery at Muggeridge Farm for affordable rings and quirky finds
Tip: Check their events calendar for craft fairs, antiques markets and themed events that make the visit even better.
Old Spitalfields Market, Thursdays
📍 Shoreditch, East London
Every Thursday, Spitalfields hosts a vintage and antiques market with a great mix of jewellery, silverware, home décor and collectibles. Expect Edwardian lockets, Art Deco rings and unusual brooches alongside clothing and curios.
Tip: Arrive early for the best choice or after lunch once the crowds thin out. The late morning food rush can make browsing trickier.
Bermondsey Antiques Market, Fridays
📍 Bermondsey, South East London
Running since 1855, Bermondsey has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and a regularly changing selection of traders. There are always a few jewellery stalls offering antique gold bands, charm bracelets and more.
Tip: It is an early market, so aim to arrive around 9am. Bring cash as the nearest ATM is outside Sainsbury’s nearby.
Accessories Of Old
📍 Parsons Green, West London
An Aladdin’s cave of deadstock jewellery, vintage pieces that have never been worn and many still with their original tags. From delicate gold-plated chains to bold 1980s statement pieces, it is a fantastic place to rummage.
Tip: Give yourself plenty of time. It is ideal for finding affordable, unique pieces whether you are shopping for yourself, for a photoshoot or just experimenting with style.
Final Thoughts
Hunting for vintage jewellery is as much about the experience as it is about the find. Every dealer has their own style and you never know what you will come across, which is exactly what makes it so addictive.
If you visit any of these spots, I would love to see what you find.
