Autumnal Treasures
Along the Grane Road is an antiques centre that houses treasures and regional historical items that will brighten any autumnal day out, writes Emma Brereton. Photography: Robin Lyndon
If forecasters are right, we’re set to enjoy a dry and bright autumn, creating the perfect opportunity for scenic drives out in the Lancashire countryside. The best place for a pitstop on days like this is Holden Wood Antiques in Haslingden.
It’s easy to spot, you can see the spire of the former church from a good distance. It’s an inspirational setting for someone on the lookout for something unusual.
“I would say we are a vibrant antiques centre with many specialists,” says owner John Ainscough.
“We have items from all eras and a huge variety of pieces for sale. Our stock is constantly changing so it is worth visiting us regularly if you’re looking for something in particular.”
The church has been beautifully respected during its transformation, making it a joy to walk around. It’s bursting at the seams with stories, history and worth, so take your time during your visit, there’s no need to rush.
Experts in their field, the team at Holden Wood will also value any piece you bring in. “It’s quite surprising what holds value these days,” says John.
“Often the strangest items have the most value. Pictures from the 1908 or 1948 Olympics for example, old items from China, or something with a local connection could be worth more than you think.”
“Books can be particularly valuable as well, especially first edition contemporary books which is a new collecting area for the book trade.”
The centre is arranged over two floors with a mixture of open displays and closed cabinets with several specialists on hand to give advice, in particular, books, clocks, military items, jewellery and furniture.
John explains that the UK’s fascination with antiques stems from the Georgian period where affluent families would send their eldest sons off on a world tour. The son would spend thousands on unusual items from far off lands and send them back to the family to showcase in the home.
Holden Wood Antiques also has a traditional tea room connected to it, so visitors can make an afternoon of the visit, enjoying a look around, a spot of lunch and make a purchase or two from a reputable antiques dealer.
“The tea room is very popular, especially at weekends. Our menu includes a mix of light snacks, full meals and sumptuous freshly made desserts and cakes. Our staff are friendly, the atmosphere relaxed and we are dedicated to offering our customers a service that makes them return time and time again.”
This year’s UK Art Pottery open day will be on 18th November, when it will feature the work of Dennis Chinaworks, David Burnham Smith and other British potteries such as Jonathan Cox, Lise Moorcroft and Moorcroft Pottery.
Sally and Richard Dennis will be in attendance and there will be a new and exclusive Dennis Chinaworks pot available on the open day in a low edition. Sally will also be happy to sign any of her pots on the day.
For more details visit: www.ukartpottery.com/pages/about-uk-art-pottery-open-day
Holden Wood Antiques
Grane Road, Haslingden BB4 4AT
01706 830803
www.holdenwood.co.uk
