adrian higham net worth
adrian higham net worth is a name that resonates with antique lovers and television audiences alike. You might know him as the charismatic dealer from BBC One’s popular show The Bidding Room, or you may have come across his unique antiques business, Hoof Brocante. But beyond the charming on‑screen personality lies a fascinating story — one of passion, persistence, adventure, and yes, a steadily built net worth. In this article, we explore Adrian Higham’s net worth, how he accumulated his wealth, the ups and downs of his personal life, and why his journey continues to inspire both collectors and entrepreneurs.
Who Is Adrian Higham? Background and Early Life
adrian higham net worth, often affectionately called “Adi,” was born in the United Kingdom in 1969, meaning he’s in his mid‑50s as of 2026. Although he keeps much of his early life private, what’s clear from multiple reliable sources is that his interest in antiques didn’t begin professionally — it began with curiosity.
Growing up, Adrian had a natural fascination with old treasures and stories behind them. He spent countless hours at local markets and auctions, slowly developing an eye for items that carried history and value. One of his earliest and most telling moments came when he bought a mountain bike for £10 and sold it for £90 — a profit that opened his eyes to the potential of buying and selling vintage items.
This early experience showed that Adrian wasn’t just a collector — he was a budding entrepreneur with a knack for spotting value where others saw dust. That simple flip marked the start of a long and rewarding journey into the antiques trade.
Turning Passion into Profession: His Career in Antiques
Once Adrian realized his affinity for old and unique items, he didn’t look back. By his early twenties, he was a full‑time antiques dealer — buying, restoring, and selling pieces ranging from furniture to rare collectibles. Over three decades, his reputation grew steadily within the antiques community.
In the early stages of his career, Adrian focused on traditional antiques and vintage decorative items. But a defining shift came when he began sourcing pieces from France, drawn to the charm of French brocante markets. This specialization helped him create a signature style — offering European antiques with rich history and character.
Driven by success and a growing client base, Adrian and his partner, Tara Franklin, founded Hoof Brocante, a destination antiques business. The business operates from converted buildings on an old RAF base on Romney Marshes, straddling the border of Kent and East Sussex — an atmospheric home for treasures of all kinds.
Hoof Brocante isn’t just a shop; it’s a curated experience. From vintage furniture and French ceramics to quirky mechanical objects and textiles, Adrian’s eye for detail sets his inventory apart from ordinary antiques.
Breakthrough on Television: The Bidding Room
While Adrian’s antiques business was thriving, it was television that gave his public profile a major boost. In 2020, he joined BBC One’s The Bidding Room, a daytime show where expert dealers bid on interesting items brought in by the public.
On the show, his personality immediately stood out — warm, engaging, and knowledgeable without being condescending. Viewers loved his honesty, quick wit, and genuine excitement when unique pieces appeared on screen. His presence made him a fan favorite, helping him connect with audiences who might never have set foot in an antique shop otherwise.
While TV dealer salaries aren’t typically life‑changing on their own, his appearances proved invaluable in elevating his personal brand. Soon, more people recognised the Hoof Brocante name, visited the shop, and followed Adrian online — all of which helped fuel both traffic and sales.
Understanding Adrian Higham’s Net Worth in 2026
One of the most common questions about Adrian Higham is, of course, “What is his net worth?” Multiple reputable sources estimate that as of 2025–2026, Adrian Higham’s net worth is around $1 million — a figure supported by his long career, business success, and television exposure.
What Contributes to His Wealth?
Adrian’s net worth isn’t tied to one single source. Instead, it reflects a combination of income streams:
• Hoof Brocante Antiques Business
The heart of his professional life, this antiques shop is a thriving business selling French decorative antiques, vintage furniture, and rare collectibles. With decades of inventory and a steady flow of regular customers and collectors, this business represents a major part of his financial standing.
• Television Work
His role on The Bidding Room brought him more than exposure — it helped broaden his audience, leading to increased sales both in‑store and online. While TV earnings might not be huge by themselves, the indirect financial impact is substantial.
• Public Appearances and Events
As a recognized antiques expert, Adrian participates in fairs, auctions, and events. These opportunities not only add to his income but also further cement his reputation in the industry.
• Social Media and Online Sales
Through platforms like Instagram and TikTok, Adrian showcases his inventory and connects with buyers worldwide. His online presence acts as both marketing and a sales channel — especially helpful in recent years as digital antique collecting grows.
This diversified approach makes his net worth relatively stable, even as markets shift. But it’s worth noting that antique dealers’ wealth often ties up in inventory, meaning actual cash flow can fluctuate with buying and selling cycles.
Personal Challenges and Triumphs
Behind the professional success, Adrian’s journey has not been without hurdles — both emotional and physical. Those challenges have shaped his life just as much as his career.
Personal Loss and Resilience
One of the defining moments in his life came when his first wife passed away in 2003. This profound loss affected Adrian deeply, leading to emotional struggles and later contributing to health issues. Despite the pain, he eventually rebuilt his life, finding new love and purpose with his current partner, Tara Franklin.
Health Journey
Adrian’s health has been a recurring theme. At one point, his weight reached more than 36 stone (over 500 pounds), leading to serious health concerns. In a courageous move, he embraced lifestyle changes, including intense fitness challenges and a commitment to better habits — proving his determination both in life and business.
He also faced a difficult back injury and other setbacks that required extended recovery time. Yet, time and again, he bounced back — stronger, more focused, and with an even deeper appreciation for his work and life.
Life Beyond Antiques: Interests and Personal Style
While antiques are Adrian’s professional passion, his personal interests spread into a broader appreciation for history, craftsmanship, and storytelling. From vintage mechanical objects like bikes and engines to textiles and decorative items, he celebrates the stories behind objects — not just their monetary value.
This philosophy resonates with collectors and casual fans alike. It’s part of what makes him relatable: he doesn’t just see transactions — he sees connections between objects, people, and the past.
His partnership with Tara also reflects a shared life built around creativity and a love for history. Together, they navigate both business and life with mutual respect and a shared sense of adventure.
The Future of His Wealth and Legacy
Looking ahead, adrian higham net worth and influence are poised for continued growth. Vintage and antique markets are increasingly popular, especially among younger collectors who appreciate sustainable, character‑filled pieces. This trend — combined with Adrian’s reputation and expertise — positions him well for ongoing success.
Even if he chooses fewer TV appearances going forward, his business and online presence remain strong. With a brand recognized both on screens and behind counters, his legacy is about more than money — it’s about how antiques bring history and beauty into modern lives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is Adrian Higham’s net worth?
As of 2025–2026, Adrian Higham’s net worth is estimated at around $1 million, primarily from his antiques business and television appearances.
Q2: What does Adrian Higham do for a living?
He is a professional antiques dealer and co‑owner of Hoof Brocante, as well as a former TV expert on The Bidding Room.
Q3: Is Adrian Higham still active on television?
While he gained fame through TV, he now focuses more on his business and occasionally appears in public and online.
Q4: Who is Adrian Higham’s partner?
He is married to Tara Franklin, his business partner in Hoof Brocante.
Q5: What kind of antiques does Adrian specialize in?
He is known for French decorative antiques, vintage furniture, mechanical pieces, and quirky collectibles.
Conclusion
adrian higham net worth journey — from curious auction visitor to respected antiques expert and TV personality — is a testament to passion, resilience, and the joy of discovery. His net worth of around $1 million reflects not just financial success, but a lifetime of dedication to his craft. Through Hoof Brocante, his television work, and his personal philosophy, Adrian has created a legacy that transcends simple wealth. He reminds us that the true value of antiques — much like the value of a life well lived — is found in the stories we carry forward.